Events
Chicano Elegance Gala 2023 (Event)
Los Angeles, CA
On Saturday, February 18th I attended the first ever Chicano Elegance Gala in Los Angeles, CA. The event was held at the Los Angeles River Center and Gardens. It was a beautiful open venue with ample space and an elegant setting. I was first invited to the event by House Oscura, a fashion Haus in Los Angeles run by two up and coming designers.
I did some research, purchased my tickets, and reached out to the organizer. Right off the bat I knew Elvira was top notch. Not only was she kind enough to set up time for us to talk, but we bonded over our love of fashion & creativity. We talked about inclusivity in the fashion industry, the purpose of the event (raising funds for survivors of DV), and future opportunities for collaboration. I really enjoyed our conversation and it gave me hope for the future when it comes to Queer visibility.
As soon as I decided to attend I reached out to House Oscura to request a custom made outfit for the event. I knew I wanted the outfit to be special and I trusted House Oscura to make me look magical. They did not disappoint. I was a part of the process from the vision, design, fabric selection, to the final details (take a look at the pics below).
The event itself was beautiful and a reminder of how much our community inspires the world. From our fashion, to our music, our foods, and personalities. We are not one group and it's hard to use one word to house us because our history is layered. Yet, it was nice to see so many folx smiling and sharing their passion for fashion!
There was an open bar, gift bags, lots of photo ops, and shopping! The actual runway show was lovely and a mix of different styles, music, and aesthetics. It was a bit cold since we've been experiencing colder than normal temperatures all over California, but it didn't stop me from enjoying the show.
I am truly looking toward to the next Chicano Elegance Gala and hoping to take on a more active role in the planning. All in all, it was definitely one of the best fashion shows I've attended. Full of heart, soul, elegance, and creativity.
Latino Professional Network Event (May 5th)
Cinco de Mayo Celebration, Los Angeles, CA
This was the second event hosted by the LPN that I attended this year. I arrived early with about 6 friends and got the VIP treatment thanks to the event organizer. When we got there the tequila and mezcal brands that were invited had just started setting up. We got to be some of the first people to taste and wow! I have never been a huge fan or tequila or mezcal, but I was pleasantly surprised! Two brands stood out for me and those were Victorioso Mezcal and Salvador's Mezcal (there was a corn flavored one that was delicious).
Afterwards we pretty much partied, took pictures, and got to network with other attendees. The music was fun, the performances were amazing, and the people all looked beautiful. I cannot wait for the next event. Check out some pictures of my outfit and the event below.
My 37th Birthday Party (Event)
Los Angeles, CA
This year I turned 37 years old and I decided to celebrate in style! I threw myself a BIG birthday party with lots of wine, charcuterie, fashion, and music! I was surrounded by my closest and dearest friends, family members, and collaborators. It was a lot of work to organize, but it was worth every second. My birthday outfit was custom made by House Oscura (L.A Based) and Nacho Jota (Mexico).
The event was held on the rooftop of my current residence and it was the perfect setting for an evening full or fashion and love.
Photographer Al.
OUTFEST Opening Night Gala 2023 (Event)
Downtown Los Angeles, CA
I received a personal invitation from the executive director of OUTFEST. I was so excited to attend and be in the company of some of the great Queer Talent in the industry right now. The event did not disappoint and I had a marvelous time. I was able to meet new folx and enjoyed an early screening of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe! I even got to meet the stars of the movie Max Pelayo and Reese Gonzales!
I also got an opportunity to connect with Cheri Moon, a wonderful musician, creative, and muse! Looking forward to more events and connections in the future, as well as a long relationship with OUTFEST.
