The energy was unmatched at the ESSENCE Girls United x Kensington Grey Creator Mixer, held on Saturday, July 5, during the 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture in New Orleans. Set inside the warm, modern interior of Common House, the all-white affair welcomed a curated group of content creators, digital innovators, and culture shapers for an intimate afternoon designed to celebrate community, creativity, and collaboration.
Dressed in crisp monochromatic white—think breezy linens, corsets, sneakers, and silks—attendees showed up in full form, ready to toast to the power of influence and the bonds that make it sustainable. The House of Influence, as it was affectionately called, was less about “look at me” moments and more about “we see each other” energy. From hugs between creators meeting IRL for the first time to affirming chats between panels and activations, the mixer struck the perfect balance between elevated and intentional.
The event was made possible through the support of CoverGirl, Juvia’s Place, and Bailey’s, three brands rooted in self-expression, beauty, and culture. Guests enjoyed crafted cocktails, immersive installations, and thoughtful moments of connection across a sun-soaked space where every detail—from the florals to the playlist—was curated with care.
Creators like J.C. Carter, Justine’s Camera Roll, Frankie Bleau, and more were in attendance, mingling and sharing insights in a room full of rising talent and established voices. Whether snapping flicks at branded photo moments or swapping strategies for longevity in the digital game, the vibe was collaborative, not competitive.
This mixer wasn’t just a party—it was a pulse check on what matters most to today’s generation of Black digital creators: authenticity, ownership, and community. And it showed just how powerful those values become when we gather with intention. Scroll ahead to see photos from the event.
