Keri Elaine

Valentine’s Day

Published on February 14, 2018February 14, 2018 by Keri Elaine4 Comments

First and foremost Happy Valentine’s Day darlings! I think Valentine’s Day is a beautiful reminder to appreciate the ones you love. Even if that means just calling them to say two things you love about them.

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I picked up this fabulous off the shoulder side tie red dress from Abercrombie and Fitch. Which is on sale btw! This looks completely different than the Abercrombie and Fitch I worked at eight years ago, so shout out to their new buyer this linen dress is so beautiful!

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I recently finished reading a book called The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo and it made me rethink my perspective on love. At one point in life I thought love was very black and white. Now I know there are tons of gray areas with love. Times where you are so drawn to someone that it is entirely magnetic and other times when you just get butterflies. Then just complete admiration for another person. You can read some of the reviews here to get a good summary. By nature I am a complete hopeless romantic. I love nothing more than great conversation, when a guy plans out a unique date and remembers the little things I even forgot I said. This always shocks my friends, because I’m often single and dating longer than I am in a relationship. I’ll be honest with you all, it’s because I have been afraid of commitment. Why? When I am in a relationship I am one hundred percent invested in my person. I use every spare minute I have to do what my guy wants, shop for the perfect birthday gift for him, plan a party, hangout with his friends and sometimes his family. The thing is in the past this has not been reciprocated. My ex’s have often been insecure due to rumors their “friends” made up, comments about me being out of their league or allowed their families to dictate who they can date and make racist remarks to me. The only thing I wanted was quality time with my man, who loves and trust me unconditionally and would stick up for me with his family/friends.

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This past year I have taken the time to completely fall head over heels in love with myself. I have planned trips, taken acting classes, laughed with old friends over lunch, gone to viewing parties for my fellow actors, had drinks with some interesting people and honestly loved every minute of it. Ironically I had a four hour conversation with a stranger about love, life and marketing. Our conversation basically reminded me that through everything, I still completely believe in love. The kind that is patient, magnetic, passionate, selfless and comes when you are completely happy with where you are in life.

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This year my Valentine is my fur baby who loves me unconditionally and I am completely fine with that! Do you think there are different types of love?

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Dior Glow Lipstick

Published on February 6, 2018 by Keri Elaine2 Comments

I’ve been using Dior’s mascara for years now and occasionally their lipstick that goes on as a clear light pink and adjust to your on personal pink based on your skin tone and PH.

When Dior came out with over six new colors I ran to Sephora to try them out. Since I already have a good amount of Red, Burgundy and Berry colored lipsticks, I tried out the lilac tinted one named 009 Holographic Purple.

rsz_imag0688 — Before without any lipgloss

rsz_1imag0689 — You can slightly see the iridescent lilac sparkles.

I must say I have been in love with the lip color ever since! The best part is this lip gloss is not sticky so you don’t have to worry about your hair getting stuck in your lip gloss in the wind. The best thing is you can use this over or under your favorite lipsticks to enhance the color! Have you ever used an Dior products?

Were the Killers Wonderful, Wonderful?

Published on January 30, 2018 by Keri Elaine2 Comments

The Killers came to Atlanta last Sunday (as you may have been able to see on my Instagram last week) and I was so happy to finally attend their concert. I have loved Brandon Flowers and The Killers since middle school with Mr. Brightside, All These Things That I’ve Done and the entire Hot Fuss album blasting through my headphones! So to say my review of their concert may have a little bit of a bias to it would be an understatement. However, we all have loved a specific artist only to hear a live recording of them and realize they do not match how they sound in person. Or that they have no stage pr or X-factor. Well I am ecstatic to report The Killers exceeded my expectation and were even better than I imagined.

Alex Cameron opened for them and even commented that Brandon Flowers personally contacted them to go on tour with them. They reminded me of Walk the Moon and The Killers combined with a little more electronica.

When The Killers came out, Brandon Flowers immediately thanked everyone for coming and said, “I know you spent your hard earned money on tickets to this show and I am going to do my best to make sure we reach your expectations”. How humble in a world huge egos and celebs who show up late to their own concerts. This was incredibly refreshing to hear. The Killer write based on their lives and are incredibly sarcastic. For example Andy You’re a Star and The Man. Andy You’re a Star was about a high school football player who bullied Brandon relentlessly and if you listen to the lyrics you can tell this is Brandon’s revenge song. He states, Andy you’re a star in nobody’s eyes, but mine.” The Man was based on the negative public persona he had when he first came out. He explained that after having kids he realized their was nothing wrong with being compassionate. He never felt he fit the bad boy image the label/industry tried to give him. Which would explain the pink confetti that launched from the cannon in the beginning of the concert. Since pink is often seen as “feminine” even though I know a ton of dudes who look better in pink than me. Brandon rocked a Robin egg blue blazer the first half of the concert. Then, red, white and blue confetti fell from the sky. One touch that was pretty cool and personal is the water tower on stage had Atlanta on it. I think it’s cool that they thought to personalize the experience. Before the song Human Brandon pulled a fan named AJ out of the crowd who was wearing a jacket like Brandon in the Human music video. They let AJ play the bass for the song onstage and grab a selfie before returning to the crowd.

The Killers did a great job of blending songs from their older albums and their newest one. I thought it would be great if Brandon changed into some kind of sparkly sequined outfit. Then, he came out in a shiny, crystal covered silver and gold colored outfit with matching shoes! The light made the look appear to be more gold.

Photo credit

Then, he did and Elvis impression that had the crowd go wild! The Killers closed out with Mr. Brightside and I must admit the 13-year old girl in me screamed her lungs out shouting out the lyrics. Mr. Flowers ended the night with the quote, “there is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man. True nobility is being better than your former self.” Over all The Killers put on a concert that was so much more than Wonderful, Wonderful.

Golden Globes and Why it is Necessary to Wear Black Now

Published on January 9, 2018 by Keri Elaine6 Comments

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t-golden-globes-2018-all-the-looks-3 — Photo credit Vanity Fair

The 75th Golden Globe’s was a complete blackout. Usually the red carpet is full of vibrant colorful dress, suits and accessories. This year MOST celebrities showed up wearing all black. I have never been so proud to see this industry unite with Time Magazine for the Times Up initiative. A few celebrities opted to bring sexual assault activist as their dates. Why now, you might ask? Why now are all these people coming forward about sexual assault after being silent for so long? Why is Hollywood speaking up now and listening to activist? The climate we are living now. I’ve had this debate with a family friends dads who know I am actively working to be apart of the film and television industry. I pointed out to them that women have been harassed forever, but we often do not come forward because we are belittle and slut shammed. What were you wearing? Are you sure you didn’t want the attention? Did you drink? How much were drinking? Why were you alone? Well did you lead him on? Are you sure you didn’t want it? Well were you a virgin? How many partners have you had? Well what did you think was going to happen?

None of these questions justify the perpetrator’s behavior. No one has the right to touch you or make a sexual advance to you without your permission. I believe the reason why TimesUp has become a huge movement in Hollywood now, is because of our current president. To have an political election where one candidate is over-qualified for the position, has decades of experience as a politician and public servant, consistently answers all question about what they would do if elected. The other candidate belittles reporters with disabilities, ignores questions, does not submitted their taxes, does not resign from their companies, has been accused of sexual assault, is currently being sued for sexual assault and harassment by multiple women. Then, is quoted saying, “grab ‘em by the pussy” wins over the over-qualified female candidate. This tells women they are not equal, they are not important and they do not have control over their own bodies. Add the lack of equal pay and well you’ve completely handicapped an entire sex.

The 75^th Golden Globes has been the most powerful, because they did not try to sweep the uncomfortable elephants in the room under the rug. Jokes were made using Harry Weinstein and Kevin Spacey names, calling them out for their crimes. Natalie Portman also pointed out that in the director category only men were nominated (even though there have been many great female directed films and tv shows this year). Debra Messing called out E! for lack of equality – in reference to paying Jason significantly more than Catt Sadler. Oprah accepted the Cecil B DeMille Award and gave the most eloquent speech since Obama was in office. My hope is that this momentum will continue and all work places will promote a safe, respectful, equal pay environment we all are owed. I can not wait for the day women and men do not have to say #metoo Did you watch the Golden Globes? If so do you think the blackout showed unity or just a fashion statement?

Four Tips for Accomplishing Your New Year’s!

Published on January 2, 2018 by Keri Elaine6 Comments

Happy New Year everyone!

This past year has been full of blessings, lessons and hardwork. My goal is to continue to be open to the opportunities and changes that comes my way. Continue to set intentions for myself and visualize them. In the past everytime I have intentionally visualized myself accomplishing my goals and spoken about them it has come true. For 2018 let’s follow the following tips to accomplish our resolutions!

1. Write down your goals. Do it. There is something about physically writing down your goals for the year that holds you accountable. Personally I recommend getting a dry erase marker and writing them on your bathroom mirror, or a long mirror in your bedroom. Why? Every morning when you wake up you use the bathroom and look in the mirror. Sometimes while brushing your teeth, other times while putting on your make up or zoning out. Then, again at night as you do your nighttime routine. Twice a day you will see your goals and can reflect on what steps you need to take to be closer to crossing that goal off your list!

2. Verbalize your goal(s). Talk to your friends, family and even people you meet at networking events about your goals. Everytime I have met people and mentioned I am an actor focused on the Film and Television industry they somehow have some interesting story to share, person they must connect me with or even just general information about this industry. (Plus I love recommending films and TV shows to check out to other people)! I have always enjoyed getting to know other people. Getting to hear someone’s perspective based on where they grew up, what their cultural norms and morals are. One of my fabulous gal pals and I just had a discussion on what she does on Christmas with her family. She is Muslim and is always kind enough to with me a Merry Christmas, but I never knew what her equivalent would be. Well she wrote this article, to explain what various Muslim’s do on Christmas. We always discuss what we want to accomplish and support each other with positive words. Verbalizing can lead to people holding you accountable and connecting with the right people.

3. Be open to change. This time of year so many people focus on dieting to lose weight, instead of making a lifestyle change for the sake of building muscle and being healthier. I can not stress enough how important your health is. That should always be priority number 1. Taking care of the only body you have the right way will save you so much stress, money and help your mental health. Change could also mean stepping out of your comfort zone, like finally taking that Public Speaking class you need so you don’t freak out when having to give a presentation or job interview. Change can feel scary and uncomfortable, but it is the only way to grow.

4. “Let live and let God”. To me, this quote means stop trying to plan and control every step of your life. This does not mean sit in your room stare blankly at the walls and expect to find the love of your life, dream career, that six pack of abs you had in middle school and financial freedom. You have to put forth effort! Want to meet someone go to a cooking class, spoken word night or indie film festival instead of your regular bar or nightclub scene. Switch it up! Look at your bank statement, and outgoing bills. See if there is somewhere you keep splurging that you can cut back, like eating out twice a week instead of everyday, or buying the majority of your groceries from a cheaper place (shout out to Trader Joe’s! You are the real MVP)! If you want to break a bad habit start today instead tomorrow, next week, etc. We all know the longer we procrastinate the harder it is to change.

5. Do a check in. In six months see which goals you have accomplished. See which ones still need some TLC to get them done.

What are some tips you have for accomplishing your New Year’s resolutions?

Merry Christmas!

Published on December 25, 2017 by Keri Elaine6 Comments

Hello darlings!

pexels-photo-728458 — Photo credit to Photo by Ylanite Koppens from Pexels

I know I have been away way to long. I just wanted to say Merry Christmas!

To me Christmas has always been about the joy of spreading kindness to others. Whether that is buying gifts for Christmas Angels through the Salvation Army, holding open the door for others or tipping your fabulous server 50 percent of the bill. This time of year so many people get caught up in the gifts I think its important to reflect on doing something kind for others. Two scriptures to remember this time of year.

A reminder of unconditional love and sacrifice

John 3:16

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

A reminder that patience and kindness is free, something we should all aim to practice year round.

1 Timothy 1:15-16

“15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.

16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life.”

So I hope your Christmas was filled with love, joy and laughter!

Feel free to check out my Instagram !

Four Things to Remember When Pursuing Your Dreams

Published on November 2, 2017 by Keri Elaine7 Comments

Hello beautiful people!

I apologize for being M.I.A. , I have been rehearsing for showcase updating my resume, getting my costumes together and such. I just realized yesterday (October 31st) makes two years since I left South Florida (to pursue my dreams of becoming an actress) and drove out to Los Angeles. The drive itself took about three days, but that’s a story for another time!

Two years later I am still pursing acting now in Atlanta. I am proud to say I don’t regret going to Los Angeles. I have some great connections out there and am more familiar with a variety of areas in Los Angeles.

Four things I have learned over the past two years about pursing your dreams.

1. God laughs when you make plans.

Meaning everyone always says you need a plan. While a plan is important you also need to be flexible. I am a firm believer in walking by faith. Every time I said, “Lord I am going to let your will be done. Please guide my path in neon lights so I know which way to go, because I am completely blind!” As a result he has always provided a way. Even when I was freaking out and down to my last ten bucks a job opportunity would appear and a new opportunity to work in the film industry would arrive.

2. Moving is a great way to find out who your real friends are.

Often times we make friendships of convenience. Sometimes it’s a friend we grew up with, lived near or ate lunch with so we wouldn’t have to sit alone in the cafeteria. Sadly every friendship is not for a lifetime. That does not mean this person was not important to you it just means you each grew into different people, with contrasting views of the world and probably could not agree to disagree. Looking back I realize a friend who never celebrates your victories is not a friend. A true friend is shouting from the roof tops all your accomplishments along with you. Instead of belittling your accomplishments and then expecting you to celebrate their own. When I moved my friends constantly tagged me in Memes on Instagram, called, texted and help reach out to any connections they had. These people are part of my tribe. I have continued to keep in touch with them even through different time zones. I’d like to thank Instagram DM messages and WhatsApp voice recordings for keep my group and I connected.

3. Ignore the naysayers

There will always be people to play devils advocate. Misery loves company and sometimes other people are afraid to purse their dreams so they will try to hold you back from yours. You have to live your life for you. You only get ONE make it count!

4. When Plan A doesn’t work make another Plan A.

Put your heart into Plan A. Think of every possible negative and positive outcome. Then think about why you want to pursue this. Is it because other people told you too? Is it because you actually want to jump out of bed in the morning to purse this industry? Or is it for financial gain? Is this your passion? Would you do it for free for a little bit, if it meant turning into a long-term career? Next evaluate each method, select the best and execute it as plan A. After all the A stands for Astonishing. Definition: Extremely surprising or impressively amazing. Because when you achieve your dreams everyone will stare at you in astonished silence, because that is exactly what you are, astonishing.

7 Reasons You Need to See Cirque Du Soleil

Published on October 5, 2017 by Keri Elaine14 Comments

screen-capture-1 — Photo credit to Cirque

I’ve wanted to see Cirque Du Soleil for years, but never had the opportunity to go. My mom gifted me with tickets this year for my birthday and I must say I will make it a priority to go from now on! Cirque Du Soleil was founded in 1984 in Canada. The entire concept was to think of how a modern circus would be, they used juggling and fire breathing to create a spectacle.

The colorful detailed costumes. In the beginning of the show these two beautiful birds came out with long wings that they fluttered. The bright emerald green, cobalt and violet. There was a butterfly whose giant wings spread across and fluttered in the wind. Ever costume moved with the performer seamlessly.
The breath-taking stunts. The sheer athletic ability of these performers is worth going! I know you’re thinking it’s so expensive, but when you see how many performers are swinging from the ceiling, flipping off their friends backs and shimmying up poles you’ll honestly think they deserved more $$$.
Every Cirque has a different storyline they have done shows based on Avatar, the Beatles, Crystal and the Luzia one I saw.
Cirque, brings back the childhood feeling of wonder. How do they come up with these ideas, colors, story lines and script.
They use the five of the elements of drama: plot, theme, characters, music, spectacle. There is also a mystical use of water and wind.
You will come out inspired and energized to do new things. Whether that’s writing, working out, acting or singing.
Unlike other circuses you don’t need to worry about animal abuse. There are no animals in the show!

26th Birthday and the Atlanta Botanical Garden!

Published on September 27, 2017September 27, 2017 by Keri Elaine30 Comments

This past Saturday, I celebrated my 26th birthday! I must say it was the best one yet. I was surrounded by supportive women, got to check out the Atlanta Botanical Garden, see Cirque Du Soleil Mexico and had a phenomenal first rehearsal for showcase!

The Atlanta Botanical Garden has been on my radar since before I moved here. They currently have a cool exhibit called The Curious Garden, which is stunning! As I strolled through the gardens with my gals I could not help, but reflect on how blessed I feel. This year is the first post-grad year that I feel truly comfortable with where I am in my life. In the past I was still trying to get the lay of the land of the city I was in, trying to find a steady job, trying to find a friend group, chase my dreams, find sometime to eat healthy, and date. All of it felt exhausting. There were so many days I tried to stay positive, but felt like my dreams were closer to fiction than reality. So I moved again since the opportunities were pulling me in another direction. I have learned that it is okay to say no and put yourself first. When you say no to pleasing other people (family included), dealing with their drama, or even disagreeing with their suggestions on how you should live your life; you finally feel free. This year I learned that I love spending time with me. There’s nothing better than spending time with the people you love, but there is something truly beautiful about being comfortable eating alone, talking to strangers and actively pursuing your dreams.

IMAG0157 — Right before I took this photo my hair clip fell in the fountain and my friend stuck her arm in to retrieve it.

At dinner we talked about how in your mid-twenties you finally start to feel like you know who you are and what you want. Whether that’s to start your own resume and life-coaching business like one friend of mine, or nanny while getting your masters degree like another gal is. We laughed about our crazy dating stories (current and past)! Then, we discussed how every time we thought we had everything all planned out God would close one door and open a bigger, brighter, better door. The horrific bullying and harassment in one job lead a friend to starting her own business. Which caused her to attend a networking event she never would have gone to and met me! The craziness of her previous job taught her how to handle difficult people going forward and not be afraid to stick up for herself. It’s crazy to think if certain events never happened then certain amazing individuals never would have crossed our path. I know if I had stayed in LA, I never would have met my acting partner who I think will genuinely be a lifelong friend.

IMAG0210 — What you can’t fully see is the beautiful chandelier hanging in this Orchid Garden!

Showcase! I am so excited for acting showcase. What is showcase? Well for acting it is when a bunch of acting students preform a scene or monologue and invite agents, managers and casting directors to watch. This is how most actors get their agents and managers since they know these actors have been trained and know how to behave professionally on set.

My acting partner is a great listener, hardworking and incredibly humble. He is the partner dreams are made of and we compliment each other so well. Our first rehearsal with our director was this past Sunday and when we finished our first run through she stared at us in silence for a moment. Then said, “Damn I’m good. I cast you two for this so perfectly. You two are more comfortable together in the first meeting than most people are by week four. Keep it up guys this was an amazing place to start I can’t wait to see how much you’ll progress in the next few weeks”. Honestly I have been on cloud nine ever since and all I can say is that dream I have of being a professional actor is so close I can smell it. Next post I’m going to share my review on Cirque Du Soleil! I hope you all have a fantastic week and take the time to start accomplishing your dreams!

Four Trends for Fall in Collaboration with High Style Life

Published on September 20, 2017September 20, 2017 by Keri Elaine12 Comments

Today I have a fabulous guest blogger post! I would like to introduce to you all to Sam from the High Style Life! Her site often features contributor articles about travel, beauty, fashion, lifestyle and entertainment. Without further ado:

Fall is almost around the corner, and if you want to know what’s hot and what’s not in terms of fashion trends – just make sure to stay with us and keep on reading. Here are top four trends you’ll love to rock this season!

Trouser suits on point

It seems that celebrities from all over the globe can’t get enough of this two-piece trend lately, and there are definitely great reasons for that! Trouser suits are extremely versatile (even though they don’t seem so at first sight), simply because they come in so many colors, patterns, and shapes. From monochromatic to sequined pieces, from wide-legged to skinny ones – all of these styles will be more than welcome because this trend will be gaining momentum this fall. Famous ladies like Zendaya, Rihanna, Emma Stone, Suki Waterhouse, Hillary Clinton, and Susan Sarandon love rocking trouser suits, and we can’t blame them for that. These are figure-flattering pieces that will accentuate your attributes in the best possible way, so make sure not to skip them under any circumstances this season!

Folklore and craftsmanship as the ultimate fashion trend

Folklore fashion and fine craftsmanship have always been linked to boho chic, and if you want to be a real boho babe this fall – be sure to get some heavily embellished items and trendy pieces that feature some ditsy prints. Obsession with folklore is still going strong this season, and designers like Gucci and Dolce and Gabbana incorporated a variety of textiles, techniques, and traditional embroideries from a range of different countries into their latest collections. This trend was massive this summer, when ladies were more than glad to get fabulous resort wear for their summer vacations like colorful playsuits from Australia. These were pieces that featured a cool clash of colors and prints that stunned everyone around. Such items can be worn even during the fall – just make sure to layer up and tone down your overall combo by picking just one statement piece!

Don’t be afraid to make a statement

Having your own opinion and being able to speak about it openly in public is not what many people are comfortable to do, and you know what? If you can’t do it like that, you can do it through your fashion choices! The trend of wearing some inspirational quotes and statements started this spring, with “We should all be feminists” T-shirts by Christian Dior. This is one of the best ways to express your thoughts, attitudes, and personal opinions without saying anything out loud. However, that doesn’t mean that your voice won’t be heard – on the contrary, you definitely won’t remain unnoticed and everyone will be able to see what you’re thinking about. So, if you live by the rule which says “Fries before guys”, don’t be afraid to show that to the world!

Futuristic designs on the rise

Not many designers went intergalactic this season, but those who had the courage actually did a very good job, making this trend more than appropriate for fall. Karl Lagerfeld nailed it at Chanel, combining a classic tweed jacket with a quilted silver blanket that inevitably brings that out-of-this-world vibe. On the other hand, Saint Laurent covered everything in thousands of sparkling crystals, which may be your cup of tea if you’re into bling from head to toe. Michael Kors is quite into fabrics that look like liquid silver, and we have to agree that these seem really extraterrestrial but wearable at the same time. You certainly won’t make a mistake if you pick any of these pieces this fall!

Each of these four trends is more than popular among the fashionistas this fall for many great reasons, which is why people are massively embracing them. If you want to look trendy and stylish this season, just pick one of them you love most and you definitely won’t make a mistake!

All photos from Pixa Bay

Thank you so much to Sam for writing this post!