As a Kicks and Fros Ambassador, people always ask me this one question: “What is Kicks & Fros?” Founder, Melissa Chanel, said it the best during the recent Kicks Over Brunch in the best city in the world, AKA New York City! Kicks & Fros aims to “create a community of like-minded women, from small business owners to influencers and creators, to collaborate and learn more about the sneaker industry.” Community is exactly what we felt as we drank bottomless cocktails in our flyest kicks!
Women from all walks of life attended the very first Kicks Over Brunch in NYC, sponsored by Cantu Beauty, Toyota and Jordan Brand during #BlackBusinessMonth! It was an opportunity for us ladies to learn from, uplift, and laugh with one another. One thing we all had in common was our love for kicks, culture, and the delicious food and drinks from Kokomo, located in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
When I think about being somewhat new to my career, I can’t help but to be inspired by women who are doing the damn thing in their fields.
“Sneaker culture creates more conversations outside of style and fashion, so it’s great that we are able to create community off of that.” - Nia Brown (@b.nia).
Whether it was an executive from Jordan Brand, an up-and-coming influencer, or a photographer, the passion for life was evident in every conversation that was had - even if we chatted about how we are done with “the streets” lol.
What really stuck out to me was how inviting and open everyone was. Contrary to popular belief, I can be a bit awkward around new people, but it felt great to feel everyone’s warmth. It’s easy to open up when you have someone like Melissa leading the conversations. We mixed. We mingled. We played games. We took photos. And most importantly, we had a good a** time!
Of course, we will remember the Henny drinks, the #KickCam and fluffy french toast, but what will leave a lasting impression is the genuine connections that were made in just a few hours. I’m ready to see what else Kicks & Fros will bring to the city in the future. Maybe we will get a Kicks Over Brunch Part 2? Fingers crossed!
Thank you to the women who put this together and who attended. I want to give you all your flowers!- Jessica Hosey (@jessys_room)