Kicks & Fros took the brunch series to Vegas during the WNBA All Star weekend and it couldn’t have been more perfect. The feeling of girl power was incredibly palpable as soon as we touched down in Vegas, The brunch that closed out the weekend’s festivities only added to that feeling. The sense of sisterhood, community and connection was apparent as soon as you entered the space.
The Setting
The brunch was held at Honey Salt in Las Vegas, Nevada. The venue was decorated so beautifully and flowers from Sara Lunn Floral Studio made the space look and feel absolutely dreamy.
The Mixer
Upon arriving, attendees were given the opportunity to mix and mingle while enjoying delicious hors d'oeuvres, champagne, and mimosas. All over the room old friends could be seen catching up with each other while new connections were simultaneously being made. In between mingling and nibbling, everyone was able to get their sketch drawn by Chic Sketch for a take home memento. Guests were also able to show off their fire kicks in the Kick Cam by 360 Me Las Vegas.
A Conversation with Tonia "TJ" Jones
Following the mixer, the ladies made their way to their seats for the highly anticipated panel. CKO, Melissa Chanel sat down with Global VP/GM of Jordan Women, Tonia “TJ” Jones for a moving conversation that left everyone feeling incredibly motivated to follow their dreams.
TJ who has been with Nike for 34 years shared that she obtained her longevity by continuing to keep going even in the face of adversity. She shared there were moments when she didn’t always feel valued but nevertheless she persisted.
Throughout her career TJ has worked in many different roles but she knew in her heart that she wanted to be at the helm of Jordan Women’s. Through hard work and perseverance that dream became a reality 10 months ago. TJ told the ladies that the work she is currently doing is personal for her. The pride she feels to be given the opportunity to speak for women could be seen and felt by everyone in the room.
Jordan Women's & The Culture
Many people may not realize this but Jordan Women’s is only 5 years old but even in this short time the brand has and continues to evolve. They are proudly grounded in not only basketball culture but black and brown culture as well. TJ shared how she remembers sitting in a room 5 years ago talking about what Jordan Women’s could be. And while some were initially skeptical, TJ’s response was, “Why not do Jordan Women’s?”
When asked about how the brand stays connected to the community, TJ gave credit to initiatives such as the Women’s Collective, who were also in attendance. The ladies of the collective are grounded in the community and share their invaluable feedback with the brand who is always open to receiving it. TJ actually encourages honest feedback from not only the collective but from all consumers as this is what makes them better and sparks real change.
TJ had everyone on the edge of their seats as she expressed her excitement about the future of the brand. And while she couldn’t spill the deets just yet she did say that we can expect it to be “very good.”
She didn’t leave the ladies empty handed though. When asked what advice she would give to anyone who may be looking to develop a career in the sneaker space TJ imparted these gems, “Be patient. Be persistent, but don’t waver. Be unapologetic.” Whew..talk about a mic drop moment!
Food, Goodies & Connections
After the conversation between TJ and Melissa fed us spiritually, it was time to eat and Honey Salt did not disappoint! Lots of laughs and girl talk was shared over the most amazing food. After everyone’s bellies were full, we played the K&F Brunch classic “Never Have I Ever” and we even found out that one guest owns over 1,000 pairs of kicks. Talk about goals! 
A K&F brunch would not be complete without sending guests home with lots of goodies. Everyone was gifted a K&F duster bag that included a pair of K&F socks, Cantu Beauty products, a mini art easel by ArtDealHER, a Jordan pouch, Beats Flex by Beats by Dre, Rose’ Wine Gummies by Sugarfina, and a pair of Women’s Jordan 12’s.
Everyone left feeling more connected, more inspired, and more motivated to show up for not only themselves but for each other. Individually women are powerful but collectively we are a force.
~Erica Britt