:: RECAP :: Natural Chica visits the Chi! : “Treasure Our Tresses”

I LOVE traveling to new places and all things natural hair related, which explains why I had such an amazing time traveling to Chicago two weeks ago to co-host Eden Body Work's "Treasure Our Tresses" along with fellow blogger, Bree from The Mane Source.Even though I was just in Chicago for a day, it was jam-packed with meeting and spending time with some great people! Upon arrival in Chicago, I was able to spend some time with Ylorie from the Eden Body Works team. I then spent the afternoon with the lovely Patrice of Afrobella.com, who was kind enough to show me around downtown! We had lunch at Chicago's Flo & Santos, where we met up with the uber talented and down-to-earth Mitzi Miller, new editor over at Jet Magazine (look out for some exciting new changes!). It was such a pleasure and might I add, very inspiring to be able to sit down and chat with these two!

L to R. Mae (Natural Chica), Mitzi Miller and Patrice (Afrobella)

Now on to the "Treasure Our Tresses" event with Eden Body Works...what a fun-filled night! Licensed beauty expert, Rachel O. did my makeup that evening. As some of you may know, she is a guest blogger on the site, so it was great to finally meet her in person!

Me with Rachel Odem

I had so much fun meeting my Chicago naturalistas that night! I spoke for a bit that evening about my natural hair journey and the rest of the night was filled with natural hair trivia, information about the Eden Body Works product line and giveaways sponsored by Natural Chica, The Mane Source & Eden Body Works.

Me with Ylorie Anderson of the Eden Body Works team

It was also great to meet several individuals for the first time in person that I've enjoyed following online, like the Double Saving Divas and celebrity makeup artist, Tia Dantzler. Bree from The Mane Source has such a sweet personality, and I have to thank her for inviting me out to host this event with her! She has a great blog, so be sure to check her out!  You all know I'm a fan of the peppermint-based Eden Body Works line so feel free to stop by their page for more info. I must add that Renae Bluitt of Crush Media also did an AMAZING job of organizing the evening's activities!

Overall, my first visit to the Chi was such an amazing experience and I can't wait to visit again!

For more pics, see the gallery below and also visit the "Windy City Naturals" gallery on Essence.com!