Fashion, food, and friends! What more could a military spouse ask for when visiting New York City?
Oh, we know - joining other military spouses while they are all treated to a VIP experience at the Nolcha Shows and Instasleep Mint Melts at New York Fashion Week. AMSE’s very own CEO, Moni Jefferson, along with Bree Carroll, Deidra Lee Stubbs, and Laura Early, met up with AMSE supporter and veteran Milinda Jefferson for the beginning of a thirty-six-hour whirlwind adventure that will stay with them forever!
The adventure began with a dinner of scrumptious Greek food and the first in-person meet-up for most of the ladies.
As military spouse entrepreneurs, meeting virtually is the norm. Plus, for many of them, this was their first major event since the pandemic began in early 2020. After enjoying a delectable dinner and chatting about their lives, they continued the stimulating conversation at the world-renowned Magnolia Cafe, where they enjoyed savory desserts. Next, they were off to have superstar treatment where celebrity make-up artists and stylists prepared them for this memorable moment!
The atmosphere was engaging, energetic, and electrifying!
First, Gerard Curoso, the award-winning and acclaimed hairstylist, started the VIP treatment. Next, prestigious make-up artist, Monique Rinard with AOFM, provided a special “glam session” for each lady. To finish the look, the ladies adorned luxurious jewelry designed by Randy Luna. They had great views of the show and were given backstage access to top off this celebrity treatment. And of course, for such a monumental event, the catering just had to be covered by the excellent Chef Tova.
Military spouse and AMSE member, Bree Carroll, shared why this event was such a critical life moment for her. “I’m a Jersey girl, so I’ve always been familiar with fashion week. I’ve always loved fashion, and that passion is why I developed the GY6 Show, a virtual fashion case highlighting veteran & dependent designers. This is my first year actually attending a show, which feels like a full-circle moment.”
The excitement continued during this momentous occasion when Moni was able to meet a couple of people she’s been looking forward to meeting in person.
First was a military veteran and spouse Dr. Kella Price, who was given a chance to walk in the show. In her words, “It was such an amazing experience working directly with designers.” When it came to meeting up with Moni, Dr. Price stated, “I love our network and the personal connections and relationships that we build through AMSE. I was excited when Moni Jefferson reached out to me and invited me to a brunch event with other military spouse entrepreneurs. While we enjoyed each other’s company, we also shared ideas and several of us had made plans to collaborate on upcoming projects, which is so exciting and what the network is all about.”
The day following the unforgettable NYFW experience, Moni and AMSE Team Member and Director of Partnerships Kat Calvo finally met face-to-face! Kat has been a part of the AMSE Agency for over a year. The stars aligned because Kat and her spouse just happened to be visiting New York City for a couples trip when Moni was there. “Finally meeting her in person was so great,” Moni said. Kat and Moni shared a conversation over brunch, and they will cherish this special kinship shared between military spouses all over the globe.
Overall, this remarkable opportunity for these military spouses and AMSE members. This is something they keep with them forever - not only as individuals but as a shared, collective experience. And it’s all thanks to Nolcha Shows, Instasleep Mint Melts, and AMSE!
Watch this video to hear Deidra sing and special recognition to our military spouses in attendance!
Caroline loves to surround herself with wonder and creativity. Naturally curious, she enjoys adventures, whether through a nice walk or a good book. Her time is often spent recording voiceovers, preparing for interviews, writing articles, or editing audio. As a military spouse of 18 years, she will be the first to tell you that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to, especially when you have a team of other military spouses to lean on and turn to. You can keep up with Caroline on IG @carolinekschafer.
