My driver Sam picking me up from home on our way to the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills where the Golden Globes are held! So nice to see Sam again, he drove me to Golden Globes last year. Going to be a long but fun day!
My hair stylist Dontay Savoy and makeup artist Valerie Hunt are MAGNIFICENT! They arrived to our hotel suite before I did – they are more excited about the Golden Globes than I am! Dontay is showing Valerie and I some ESSENCE-inspired looks for the red carpet today. Dontay wants to do something very soft and elegant, yet still timeless today to complement my dress.
My makeup artist Valerie Hunt begins by applying a moisturizer and primer then concealer and foundation. Since my makeup has to stay fresh for so many hours, the primer keeps the makeup in place. Before a big show like the Golden Globes, getting my makeup done really relaxes me. I can take a moment to breathe and think about all the questions I’m going to be asking the stars on the red carpet.
Time for lunch! I ordered a Chinese Chicken Salad – the Beverly Hilton makes a delicious one! I definitely need a meal that is going to sustain me but I don’t want anything heavy. This salad is just perfect. I always make sure, when I order, to say NO ONIONS! Heck, in a couple hours, I will have George Clooney up close and personal.
Trying on statement earrings by Dena Kemp while perfecting a side sweep.
We’re adding the finishing touches. Valerie put crazy lashes on me. We were going to try a red lip but she wanted to do something classic and elegant that looked like it belonged with the gown.
My accessories: ankle strap sandals by Adrienne Maloof, clutch by Swarovski, earrings and ring both by Dena Kemp.
For the gown, I wanted to try something different. I usually go for a bright colored gown but this time I went for a classic black and white look. The dress is by Impero Couture.
It’s the first show of the year so it sets the tone for the rest of the award season. It’s very exciting so you want to come all decked out.
Suchin Pak was Access Hollywood’s fashion correspondent for the day and I was interviewing her regarding the red carpet fashions.
Striking a pose while photographers get their shots.
Access Hollywood hands out Best Dressed compacts and Octavia Spencer received one from us.
Paula Patton was just a bright ray of sunshine in a gown by Monique Lhuillier and Kwiat jewels. You can’t help but feel good around her, she’s just got the most bubbly personality. She’s got this bottled happiness.
I just saw Viola a few days ago at the Critics’ Choice Award, and she had on a vibrant red. Tonight she has on a deep plum. She just embraces color, and chooses the ones that make her skin glow, and I like that about her. She’s confident and works the red carpet, exuding self-assurance. She’s very comfortable in her own skin.
Suchin Pak and my girl-crush Sofia Vergara in Vera Wang.
Mary J. Blige was sparkling, just blinging it out. She was so excited to get a Golden Globe nomination that she wanted to go all-out.
The glam squad from left to right: hairstylist Dontay Savoy, stylist Nicole Allowitz, and makeup artist Valerie Hunt.
Overall everyone on the carpet was in a great mood, people are happy to be here. There were many great films this year, which makes it exciting.
My hair stylist Dontay Savoy and makeup artist Valerie Hunt are MAGNIFICENT! They arrived to our hotel suite before I did – they are more excited about the Golden Globes than I am! Dontay is showing me and Valerie Hunt some Essence-inspired looks for the red carpet today! Dontay wants to do something very soft and elegant, yet still timeless today to compliment my dress.
