“Real friends are the ones you can count on no matter what. The ones who go into the forest to find you and bring you home.And real friends never have to tell you that they’re your friends.”

My just concluded US tour was a success mainly because of genuine friendships. I am always aware of their value, but this trip reminded me of that. God positioned people to make my trip successful from Miami to Fort Lauderdale to Orlando, Atlanta, Washington, New Jersey then finally to New York.

True friends are usually those who offer you support, improve your quality of life, promote self-confidence, provide honesty and unconditional love, and help you progress mentally. It often takes time and effort to foster deep, healthy friendships. We need to support each other on our respective missions. I had a few invitations for the 4th July holiday in the US, but I decided I would be with my friend Lorna who recently had knee replacement surgery and was in bed. I cooked for her and joined her in bed and we had a blast talking about past, present and future events. She loves Family Feud with Steve Harvey and we watched back-to-back episodes.

I also discovered that Steve also has a show where he is a people’s court judge. Those three days were absolutely magnificent, and it reminded me what true friendship is. The only thing she was sad about was that she could not attend the event our friend Doris was hosting for me, which was the last event of my US tour featuring my collection and books. It was an appropriate wrap to a successful trip.

Thank you to Doris Rodney, owner of the Hills Restaurant, for supporting me from the time we met. I admire her strength and determination. The only dangerous thing about visiting her restaurant is the delicious food, pastries and cakes, especially the sponge cake. She did not hesitate to organise a pop-up shop at her restaurant for me to connect with my clients after the pandemic and meet new ones. Another woman I greatly respect and love is Patricia Jordan-Langford, who continues to contribute significantly to the Guyanese and Caribbean Communities in New York. She went beyond to make this event a success.

Claire Patterson-Monah is a sweetheart and contributed to this event’s success. She also wore one of my outfits she bought years ago and was sharing when she was on vacation and someone fell in love with the Sonia Noel skirt and she gave it to the person. My sister Sherif also showed up in her Sonia Noel Designs and ordered one from the new collection. Friends such as Ventrice Simon, June Persaud, Rose October-Edun, Sharon E. Webb-Richards and Radhika Olarte also showed up and supported.
The photos did not capture the hugs, kisses, laughter and love that was evident at this event.
Doris should be a DJ as a side hustle because her music selection was amazing.

Doris, myself and Bibi Alli listened and sang along to the amazing playlist after the event. Bibi Alli is another sister who contributes to humanity; her story is very inspiring. She hosted the event in Queens for me at her son’s studio Twisted & Brushes, which provided a beautiful artistic backdrop. Thank you to Sara Khalil, Gypsy Persaud, Romanee Kalicharran, Cloyette Harris Stoute, and my friend Joselyn who organised the sponsorship of the Bartenura Wines for the event.

Having one of my favourite models for the fashion display at the Pop up Shop was awesome.
Viv has been modelling for me for over two decades.
“Sonia Noel affair as usual is energetic, exciting, and exclusive in her designs. Always a Blessing to see you SN love your new collection, love you, your Spirit and your Authenticity” These are the sentiments Ms Pat shared on FB after the Queens event.

I had the opportunity to also showcase in Jersey at my friend Shirley Hendricks’ luncheon. I also had the chance to speak at the event and convinced my gorgeous sister to model and she enjoyed it tremendously.

There are not enough words to describe the impact this tour has created and has motivated and empowered for the next half of this year, which is moving rapidly.

I encourage you to take time out and identify the people who are your genuine friends as we continue to celebrate this journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.