beauty

One Year Later film screening pics

Posted on October 28, 2017

It’s been two weeks since the event and yes, I’m still on cloud 9 from the One Year Later film screening.  My photographer Tenneal McNair took so many amazing pics that I’ll just share here.  I didn’t want to flood your Instagram timelines.  Please scroll to get an idea of how incredible this evening was. XO, Mel The best host ever! My homie Dayo – @thearthype     The love was sooo real. Director Joshua E. Peters dropping some knowledgeRead More→

One Year Later video DC screening recap!

Posted on October 26, 2017

The One Year Later video screening was held at Beyond Studios here in Washington, DC and the evening was magical!!  I just want to say Thank You to everyone who not only came to support but also those who just purchased a ticket in support of the film.  A portion of the proceeds were donated the Habitat For Humanity Hurricane Relief Fund and it warmed my heart to be able to pass along your contributions to help out all of the victimsRead More→

One Year Later video screening!!

Posted on September 29, 2017

Can you believe a year has past already?!?  Time does fly when you’re having fun. The short film “ONE YEAR LATER” covers the first year of my hair growth journey through footage that I’ve collected over the past year with the help of the incomparable film director Joshua Peters. I’ll be sharing how the power of spirituality, travel, and the support of my family has led me to where I am today.  Screening will be followed by a Q&A discussionRead More→

Brown Girls Love Power Day – January 7th, 2017

Posted on December 26, 2016

What a way to start off the New Year!!!   I will be speaking at #BrownGirlsLovePOWER Day on January 7th with four other AWESOME and inspirational ladies.  The event has an amazing lineup of workshops and panel discussions on empowerment and so much more! Hurry and grab your tickets at: www.browngirlslovepower.com Looking forward to meeting everyone! XO, Mel  

Facial at HelaSpa

Posted on April 30, 2016

Since I cut my hair, I felt the need to pay extra attention to my skin care regimen.  My cleansing routine is pretty simple. I use a gentle cleanser, exfoliate ever so often,  and apply a hydrating lotion both day and night, but I knew I needed to step it up a notch since I started noticing some pimples were starting to surface. So, I scheduled an appointment with the DC’s award-winning HelaSpa for a cleansing facial. Bonnie was myRead More→

Empowered by you!

Posted on April 28, 2016

I am empowered by being imperfect. I LOVE how cute and comfortable these seamless undies are by @empoweredbyyou and am so proud to be an ambassador for this brand!  They are the perfect everyday panty.  Honored to be a part of such an incredible campaign that helps #empower women out of poverty.  20% of net profits will go to the Seven Bar Foundation to empower women out of poverty and into business via microfinance. Check out more on: Facebook: @Empoweredbyyou Twitter:Read More→

The Golden Hour

Posted on April 12, 2016

I just love that time, right before sunset, when everything just seems to glow.  Those few minutes when the sun is low in the sky and creates such a beautiful warm light.   Soooo perfect for pics (no filters needed.)   Photos: Emma McAlary View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Jacket: Gap Sunglasses: Ray-Ban  (thanks Emma for letting me borrow them!) Top:  All Saints Jeans: Rag & Bone Boots:  Steve Madden

Cherry Blossoms – Washington, DC

Posted on March 31, 2016

Spring is truly my favorite time of the year.  Everyone starts to come out of hibernation, you can shed layers of clothing, and for me, it’s the all about the beautiful flowers that start to bloom. Which is why I totally look forward to the Washington DC Cherry Blossom Festival every year.  It also reminds me of being in Japan where I lived for my last tour in the United States Navy. Just a little bit of history, the famousRead More→

Ready for Spring

Posted on March 8, 2016

Hey guys! I know, I know.  I have been slacking on my posts (my bad).  I have been extremely busy and I am just trying to balance it all but I’m BACK!  I don’t know about you guys but I am super excited for spring time to come.  You know, like when the weather is warm enough to just rock a simple tee and a pair of distressed jeans.  It’s my favorite outfit to wear any day. What is yourRead More→

The reason why I shaved my head.

Posted on January 31, 2016

HERE IT IS !  Special thanks to: Filmmaker Sam Song of Spare Tire Productions for bringing my vision to light.  You are truly the best! Photographer MalekNaz Freidouni of Maleknaz.com for taking such beautiful photos and being such an awesome friend. Hairstylist Gianne Nascimento for buzzing my hair to perfection and being part of such a profound moment with me. Designer Virginia Arrisueño of DeNada for allowing me to use your beautiful studio.  I am forever grateful. And to ALL ofRead More→