Redefining Healthy is the brainchild of Darlene of Suits, Heels & Curves. It's all about shattering the myths that being being plus size does not equate being unhealthy. How many posts have you seen online where a plus size person is judged and threatened with diabetes if they do not lose weight? Darlene wanted to create a space where we can talk about confidence, health, fitness, style and just get the dialogue going.
The event started off with Owning You Confidence moderated by Marcy Cruz (Blog Editor of Plus Model Mag & Blogger, Fearlessly Just Me) featuring:
- Valeria Serenil- Tween Contributing Blogger of Suits, Heels & Curves
- Sasha Renee- Drag Performance Artist
- Ally Gursky- Blogger, Candied Curves
- Rosaliz Jimenez- Photo Editor, People Style Watch
The panel spent time talking about past experiences and really delving into how one can build their confidence. It's amazing how many stories you can hear with similarities to your own. It was refreshing to see so many people open and honest about their daily struggles.
Next up was a quick sexy dance lesson from the ladies of Vixen Dance. Dancing has always been a confident booster, it was one of the few things that when I was in the moment I was not worried about what others thought. Jessie has such a great energy that I definitely want to take a class.
Gypsy in the City is a beauty and fashion blogger. Ada has the most down to earth personality that shines through her speaking about how makeup was the pivotal driver in her life. After hearing her story, and just giving simple tips on how to look great with a good 5 minute routine was greatly needed. I am not at a point in my life where I wan to do a full blown beat just to go to the store, but a little tips and tricks to help out my morning routine.
Next up was my one of my favorite stylists Steffany Allen. She is one of the most nicest people you can meet. She does not only know her way to dress a body, she is smart about the business of fashion. She gave great tips for those out there that were a bit timid of trying new things and just overall how can you make what's in your closet work without completely overhauling your wardrobe. A lot of times there are gems in your closet that you never thought you can get a lot of use of. Other times, it's the emotional attachment we have to our clothes, and we have to let them go in order to bring in something new.
Last, but not least was Sahar Paz, author of Find Your Voice. Let's just say that I was not ready for the the knowledge she dropped. She spoke about the voice that we all have that tells you you are not worthy, always tearing you down and just leaving in stuck. She told us to name that voice so that when he/she comes around, you know that it is not the real you speaking. Us being in that space to share stories and truths was heavy. It was beautiful, and at the end of her session, I walked up to her, gave Sahar a hug and cried. I struggle with impostor syndrome. I always think that I am not good enough, so I work twice as hard to accomplish things because I do not want others to think that giving me a chance was a huge mistake and that I am a fraud. I always over compensated and would take on so much without even thinking about my well being. When I went to a work event, and found out about this and how so many women of color suffer from this fear of being a fraud, it was a sigh of relief. Sahar touching on that, brought me back to the point that I am worthy no matter what.
I was afraid to leave my old position because I thought what if I am not smart enough to handle the demand, or why start a blog, no one is going to like it. When I stopped doubting myself, and went back to to the thought of this is for me, and I won't know until I try- this blog would still be on a to do list somewhere. We all deal with our struggles, and it is by being open can we move past to achieve what we desire.
I tried to get as many pictures as possible of the attendee's and speakers, so here you go!
