Covid in California: A handwritten song and encounter with fashion icon, Betsey Johnson
Do you know anyone who's seen the future?! I didn't, until I met Betsey Johnson...
Truthfully, I didn’t even know what Betsey Johnson looked like before this encounter.
I know, shame on me…a Los Angeles native, former Hollywood Assistant, Entertainment Media Professional, and California girl through and through.
I was almost in shock when my wife, Kayla, spotted her at a Malibu Italian Restaurant on a Sunday afternoon.
Betsey definitely has a distinct look and she had her four-legged sidekick with her, Mr. Johnny Cash, which helped to identify this fashion icon.
Side note: Kayla actually wore Betsey Johnson shoes at our wedding! Peep the below photos for proof:
I usually don’t go up to celebrities, because let’s face it, they are people, too - I imagine it is quite exhausting to be recognized in public when you are trying to go about your day.
I don’t consider myself a “fan girl” as I don’t like to intrude, especially when someone is out in public, enjoying daily life.
However, Kayla quickly convinced me that not only did Betsey seem extremely friendly and approachable, but to also see if she would like to be featured on my Covid in California project. DEAL, SOLD!
As Betsey was getting up to leave, she walked by our table. Johnny Cash locked eyes with Tova the Doodette (she was there, too) and I decided to say hello!
What a woman and gem of a human, is all I can say. Betsey’s positivity and zest for life are evident in her colorful appearance and vibrant personality.
She was indeed smiling from ear to ear, and it wasn’t just because of her Strawberry Daiquiri! She frequents this Sunday brunch spot and told me that next time, I need to try this favorite drink of hers. Betsey literally pointed out her pink house to me in the distance, which you could distinctly see from the rooftop of this restaurant. How neat and PINK!
We took a couple of selfies, did a quick photo shoot, and then she gave me her phone number because she couldn’t remember her email address.
I chuckled, called her to make sure I entered the digits correctly, and her phone began buzzing away in her “Betsey Johnson” purse. Obviously.
The following day, I texted her my Covid in California questionnaire and before I knew it, I received her responses.
The thing I love about Betsey, is that she is unapologetically herself. She radiates good energy and knows how to have a good time!
While most people (and actually everyone I have interviewed thus far) have sent me electronically, typed out answers, Betsey decided to handwrite and take photos of her responses, truly adding an artistic element to her interview. I especially love the highlighted numbers and cut out paper she decided to use!
See below for our interview exchange:
1) How has Covid-19 impacted you personally?
2) Did you or anyone you know get Covid-19?
3) What specifically changed your personal / professional life during this time? I.E. what daily routine did you have to adjust?
4) Is there a story behind your mask?
5) What do you miss most about life before Covid-19?
6) What has Covid-19 made you grateful for?
7) What has been the biggest challenge for you during this time?
8) What are you most excited for when things return to “normal”?
I inquired about how business has been during this time and asked if it has slowed down or sped up...and how Betsey's online sales are doing during Covid-19. Here's what she had to say:
Betsey Johnson is not just a fashion icon; she is a human with a good heart and the epitome of a creative.
Check out the custom Covid in California song she wrote me:
And just for kicks (pun intended), here are a few more photos of Kayla rockin’ her Betsey Johnson heels at our wedding on November 2, 2019.
If you or anyone you know would like to be featured on Covid in California, please direct message me on social media or shoot me an email - I’d love to share your story with the world! 🌎
And, if you haven't done so already, please follow along this journey with me on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter - and share it with your community! The whole point of this project is to connect humans during a time of so much uncertainty.
Much love, health, and happiness,
Robin