Karli From the Blog: At the ALMA Awards

By: Karli Henriquez

Waking up to the sound of lighting was a definite sign of a very gloomy California afternoon but the sun gods came through for the ALMA Awards. Upon my arrival to the Santa Monica Civic Center where the 2011 Awards were being held there wasn't a single gray cloud in sight. The evening was bound to be a complete celebration especially with so many talented Latinos walking the red carpet.

There were so many familiar faces on the carpet I grew up watching on television. For example, Maria Celeste Arrarás. When I was younger my abuelita would always watch Primer Impacto and stress me out about the news. The moment I met her on Saturday I felt like she was going to give me a breaking news story or some depressing news of a third world country, but she didn't. She complimented my make-up and dress which is really nice but not what I was expecting. I was looking forward to a news-filled conversation about bombs over Baghdad or virus filled milk... maybe next time.

Moving forward, the carpet was awesome! One of the highlights I had was a 'pinky promise moment' with Mr.Edward James Olmos. Let's just say I have bought a few books online on the fundamentals of theater and acting since then. I met Gloria Estefan which was EPIC! Did you know Pharrell Williams co-produced her new album Miss Little Havana?!?!? There's a video online of studio footage with her and Mr.305 himself Pitbull doing the remix for WEPA which will mostly make an impact in radio since it involves Pit. Want your song played on the radio...hire Pit! Ha!

Now it was time for the ALMA Awards! I felt so privileged to be in a room filled with amazing talent and extremely proud to be Latina. I really wanted to be on that stage co-hosting with George Lopez and Eva! Okay, I know, I know, I need to relax. Can a girl dream? Yeah! I had two unforgettable moments at the awards, one was Pitbull waving at me before hitting the stage and two was Edward James Olmos saying "see you soon" as he left the venue! The ALMA Awards committee did an incredible job at this years show. Check out a few pictures that I captured from the carpet!

Until next time...xo Karli

Tags ALMA Awards, Edward James Olmos, Gloria Estefan, Karli from the Blog, Karli Henriquez, Maria Celeste Arrarás, Pitbull