Urban Elite, Creating Options not Competition

One of the reasons I started this blog was because I was tired of hearing people say that there was nothing to do in Memphis, adding to the negative publicity. I wanted to create an outlet that would help display the real Memphis, the Memphis that my friends and I get to experience. I’m so proud of where I’m from and take every chance I get to showcase my city and its people. That’s why when a friend mentioned to me that he and some other friends were starting a movement that would be working toward accomplishing a similar goal I had to know more. They too had grown tired of people complaining about the lack of entertainment and networking opportunities in our city and decided to do something about it. Instead of just sitting back and waiting for someone else to fix what they felt Memphis needed they created “The Urban Elite”, bringing the city a new premier entertainment and networking option to add to its list. Justin Boddie, Kenneth Fleming, Mario Pendarvis, Ruffin Smith, Rashod Traylor, and Tim Jordan II created The Urban Elite "to provide Memphis' urban young professionals with unique and alternative forms of entertainment and networking that intentionally focuses on their cultural experiences. Providing a platform for our demographic to create, promote, and participate in entertainment opportunities for the culture... by the culture..... created to unite the culture.” Explained by Urban Elite Co-founder Tim Jordan.

The group held their first successful event on April 21, 2018, with the kickoff event being a summer brunch series. Indulge, But First, Brunch! Is a day party brunch experience designed to give you good food, drinks, day party vibes, and music wrapped all in one. I had the pleasure of attending their first event and as a brunch connoisseur I recommend and approve of this brunch. Being able to brunch and hit a day party on the same day without traveling to a different venue warms my heart. I was able to hang with some of my friends from college that I don’t get to see often as well as meet some new people. There is a picture below depicting the time I had at the brunch, Issa mood. The location was downtown which makes it extremely easy to find your next spot if you want to continue to kick it. OH! There is a price option for you to have your own bottle of champagne. YAAAA OWNNNN BOTTLEEEE!! (Drink responsibly, always) Fellas you may even find yourself a summer bae because you know brunching brings the women out!

These men have taken on the challenge of being the change they want to see but still making sure to support those who have already made the same effort.  
“We only want to provide choices, not competition! We aren't here to chase after what others are doing, we are focused on staying in our lane and providing opportunities that others aren't at this point. We are eager to be a force of positive energy and support for others in the city to ensure everyone understands that success is attainable for all and Memphis will be a better place for us all as a result.” says Tim Jordan.
 
It is so encouraging to see so many people contributing to changing the culture of a stagnant Memphis. Whether it is with programs for the kids, community projects, or evolving the arts Memphis millennial have committed to Memphis and making it a better city for all. We have realized that the city’s issues cannot be handled alone, and it is up to the residents to change the direction of where things are headed. It is so easy for one to just pick up and move on with their life, so I applaud everyone who is taking the effort to make Memphis a better place. I know fighting for change can be a little tough but nothing worth having has ever come easily. Let’s make sure we take the mindset of the founders of Urban Elite by creating choices, not competition and finding solutions to our problems. Let’s also be sure to support each other, keep each other safe, and show that Memphis is not to be counted out! We are more than violence, poverty, or whatever other labels people have given us. Take pride in where you are from and give back to your communities!!
 
The Urban Elite has their second installment of Indulge..... But First, Brunch coming up soon. Saturday, June 30, 2018, at BrickWood Hall, 391 S Front St. The Urban Elite will be giving you the opportunity to let your guards down, be yourself, have a good time enjoying the culture with like-minded individuals, all in a safe environment. Tickets are currently on sale to purchase! Pricing descriptions and links are below.  
 
 
The different entry options include either 2 complimentary mimosas or YOUR OWN bottle of champagne and shared carafes of juice.
 
To purchase your Tickets & V.I.P Booth Reservations visit: indulgebutfirstbrunch.eventbrite.com ​
​Can't wait to see your faces!