Hats and Boots 2018, When I Can’t Wait To Get There

My roadie, Miki Peden, and I set off to Charlotte, NC for Hats & Boots hosted by Smooth Stylz of Steppin’. We were late and Miki kept pointing out the photos shared on Facebook for the event. We saw who’d already beat us to Charlotte and were dancing the night away. I couldn’t wait to get there! We arrived safely with no issues at 12:45 a.m. after a six-hour drive. I got three dances in before the Friday event ended at 1:00 a.m. in the wee hours of Saturday morning. An event is memorable when it is different because of the unique experience the host plans. The camaraderie and inviting mood of the hosts add to the experience. The people and atmosphere, and when the time spent were well worth it and a jolly good time. Marcus and Tracie Brent, hands down, I won’t forget my first Hats & Boots event.

First, what was unique about Hats & Boots 2018?

I had nothing in my closet for this event, but with a little imagination and styling found outfits. They all more than made the grade for the Saturday main event and for the 80’s day party. I had a reason to add something new to my closet. I received a lot of compliments on my final outfits. On to the music… DJ Butta, the music was FIYAAAAH! She gave us a little of the old and a lot of the new. The last time I heard her deejay at an event was at I Love Steppin’ last year in Detroit. My phone died from Shazaaming all night to know each song. I look forward to your music in Detroit for I Love Steppin’. Please have my flash drive ready! When I get a chance to learn a line dance even if I struggle through it, it’s fun! I haven’t tried the official Hats & Boots line dance. That was special and I haven’t heard “Plastic Dreams” in years! I’ve got two new line dances under my belt now. Yes, we “Rock This Party!”

Greetings and Love

From the start, I was greeted warmly at the door with hugs and smiles. Thank you Tracie Brent for knowing how to treat the customer who has arrived at the very last minute. Even after a long trip on the road. Your courtesy was much appreciated and went a long way. I was happy to see everyone from many cities – Columbus, Memphis, Atlanta, and many more. Upon arrival I went straight to the dance floor. That’s just how I like to make an entrance to the party. I met more of my blog readers.

Surprisingly, I was accosted in a not so humorous way by two promoters. They were apparently not happy I have not made it to their event. Someone else accosted me for not saying hello. To those individuals I say, your behavior and public spectacle only punctuated the kindness of others. Thank you to the kind people who said hello and hugged me or introduced themselves, complimented, and danced with me. All those moments made this weekend special. The hosts did the most for what was under their control. Moreover, my belly thanks you for the wine and food. Every time in North Carolina, I am fed well with the good stuff. Chicken wings, pasta, salad, crackers, cheese, fruit “ – without an additional charge.” Five stars for that alone!

The Dancing and Papparazzi

I had a great time on and off the dance floor. Dancing with people I don’t dance with often or haven’t danced within a long time made it fun. Inside, I hoped that I was better than the last time we danced. We had a great time even when men tried to make me ballroom. I had to respond, “I don’t ballroom.” There are many event photos on Facebook and the pictures tell of the good time had by All. Thank you Renault Rooster, the “Ninja for his photography… He posts his pics before the last beat drops.” – Donna Peek. Photos, laughs, and conversations, meeting new people, and catching up with the old were memorable great times. A special thank you to Miki Peden. We shared moments of indulgence, bad influences, fashion fixes, and great times and stories. Brent and Tracie, it was a star-studded weekend. You both made it look like hosting an event is as much fun as it is hard work.