The Most Star-Studded DINAH SHORE WEEKEND in History!

PALM SPRINGS, CA - There are absolutely no words to encapsulate what happened at the 2016 Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend. To say that the event gave enough reasons to experience a severe case of FOMO is to put it mildly. Pulling all the stops, the event was not just epic, but was also pure magic.

The famed weekend was filled with unique moments, exceptional firsts, unforgettable milestones, and unexpected surprises that made up for one of the most surreal and mind-blowing Dinah ever.

The legendary Palm Springs’ signature event defied all expectations on so many different levels. From Kate Moennig and Camila Grey (aka The X-Names) giving an exclusive surprise performance Friday night, to Golden Globe winner and international pop icon Lady Gaga making her unexpected return to The Dinah enjoying a little fun in the sun at the Saturday Cabana Pool Party with buddy Samantha Ronson, one thing for certain is that you never know what extraordinary thing might happen at The Dinah.

There are plenty of good reasons to want to experience The Dinah, be it the massive pool parties, the star-studded red carpet soirees, the top-notch live concerts by established performers and fast-rising newcomers, the celebrity sighting, or the hottest DJs and dancers around the world. But while The Dinah might represent different things for everyone, the one common thread is its unique ability to bind us all together as one big family and organically impart a sense of solidarity and normalcy.

“The message is always the same: Here’s a space for you to celebrate your life, live out loud, and simply love,” says Mariah Hanson, founder and producer of Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend.

The empowering effect of the event was already palpable in its stellar entertainment roster led by a strong and diverse presence of kick-ass female artists such as celebrity DJs Samantha Ronson, L Word iconic star, Kate Moennig & UH HUH HER’s lead singer Camila Grey (who together form The X-Names), newcomer JoLivi, and one of Rap’s most vocal and lyrical MC’s,  Angel Haze.  And if “girl power” was the flavor of the weekend, the color du jour at The Dinah was certainly orange with Orange is the New Black stars DJ Taryn Manning (Tiffant “Pennsatucky” Doggett) spinning at the Sunday Pool Party and comedian Lea DeLaria (Big Boo) headlining the comedy show Saturday night.

It was a weekend of high-energy performances whether singing in front of a mic or spinning records behind the turntables.

Perpetuating the rise of women and now transgender DJs behind the decks, the Dinah put an extra focus on trail-blazing DJs with a diverse group of incredibly talented tastemakers who more than hold their own in this boy’s club: Dj Amara, DJ Asha, DJ Lezlee, DJ Angie Vee, DJ Automaton, Citizen Jane, DJ GoodBoy, DJ M.O., DJ Val G, and Leah V.

Also in attendance were some of our LGBT community’s most influential Youtubers including: ElloSteph, Arielle Scarcella, Ari Fitz, Ambers Closet, Bria And Chrissy, It’s Ally Hill, Shannon and Cammie, and Life of Bly.

Another smash hit at this year’s Dinah Shore Weekend was the Hot as L Pool Party hosted in association with Showtime - a Dinah exclusive.  Saluting a memorable era in lesbian culture, the event reunited some of the iconic series’ beloved actors including Clementine Ford, Elizabeth Keener, Tracy Ryerson, Amanda Leigh Dunn and Hunter Valentine who performed their farewell show to thank the fans for one hell of an amazing ride.

And while the Dinah was the all-female punk rock band’s scheduled last stop, it also marked pop music’ s new “it” girl’s first ever concert.World famous cover girl and super model Madison Paige gave an emotional but absolutely formidable first live concert on Sunday officially debuting her music career at Dinah. 

Yes, The Dinah 2016 was the most star studded Dinah Shore Weekend in history. But above it all, it was the most profoundly transformative and empowering Dinah EVER.

“I keep on hearing how this was the best Dinah yet, which of course puts a huge smile on my face.  I'm proud of my staff. They all execute the administrative part of the weekend with such grace even when under pressure. Of course, I’m also grateful and thankful to our incredibly wonderful and appreciative customers who remind us of exactly why we do what we do.  The magic of The Dinah is undeniable and irreplaceable, “ says Mariah Hanson. “I'm so moved and touched, I am already planning for next year  -- bigger and better!”

###

Tickets to The Dinah 2017 go on sale July 1, 2016 at www.TheDinah.com

YOUTUBE CELESBIANS To Appear @ The DINAH

YOUTUBE LESBIAN PERSONALITIES TO HOST MEET & GREET AT THE DINAH

Club Skirts is thrilled to present some of the hottest lesbian YouTube celebrities at this year’s Dinah Shore Weekend in Palm Springs, CA.

Held during the Sunday Pool Party at the Hilton Hotel, the special meet and greet will start at 2:00pm and feature YouTube sensations: Ally Hills, Ambers Closet, ElloSteph, Life of Bly, Ari Fitz, Arielle Scarcella, BriaandChrissy, and Cammie & Shannon.

The event highlights popular YouTube channels run and hosted by lesbians who share their experiences in their daily lives with humor and honesty.

For the first time ever, some of our community’s most beloved YouTube influencers (lesbian vloggers) will gather together all under one roof during one massive Pool party - an exclusive premiere happening only at The Dinah!

For more information and/or to buy tickets go to: www.TheDinah.com

NEW LGBTQ Music: Smoke Season

by Lauren W

And now, for something a little different.

I have no idea whether or not any of the members of this band are LGBT or Q. Then why am I labelling this post "LGBTQ music", you say?

The music video for Smoke Season's single "Loose" is LGBTQ-themed. Well, it's less LGBT "themed" and more SUPER F*CKING GAY.

It deals with some serious themes including suicide and bullying, so consider that your trigger warning.

Seriously though, give it a watch. It's beautifully acted and directed, and the song is really great too.

Smoke Season's Official Website: http://smokeseason.com/

YouTube Couple BRIA AND CHRISSY Release New Music Video!

Remember that time we let you all know about this hot, talented, lesbian YouTube couple?

Well, look what we have here... It's their brand new (super, super gay) music video!

Who are Bria and Chrissy, in their own words?

BriaAndChrissy have been making youtube videos for a little over 2 years, in this short time between their two channels they have accumulated 60 million views and 350 thousand followers. They are a real life couple who create music and videos to help inspire people, be it about their sexuality, depression, anti bullying, or suicide prevention. Their videos often use comedy to help spread these messages. This debut music video 's goal is to help change hearts and minds. 

You can visit the girls' YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/user/BriaAndChrissy and buy their new release on their website at http://www.briaandchrissy.com/!

What are you waiting for?!

Lesbians on YouTube: Bria and Chrissy

by Lauren W

One thing has become pretty clear to us here at All Things Lesbian: You ladies love your real life YouTube couples. And whether you've heard of this one or not, you'll be sure to love them.

Lesbian couple Bria and Chrissy have been making YouTube videos since August 2012. And what for? In their words: "To help inspire and promote equality." Who needs a better reason than that?

We know, we know. Cute.

And guess what? They sing, too. That's right, they have an album coming straight to your ears in the near future.

The album, titled Face Your Fears, is not like previous music to come out of famous lesbian musicians. Without the restraint of an unsupportive manager, Bria and Chrissy make sure to use female pronouns in their songs and write love stories within their music about the love between two women. Right on!

The girls' YouTube channel also features videos of them showcasing their comedic talents (be sure to watch "10 Worst Ways to Come Out") and a few more solemn videos in which their share advice and some of their personal struggles, which often relate to being part of the LGBTQ community.

Check out their YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/BriaAndChrissy.

Lesbians on YouTube: Arielle Scarcella

If you may or may not remember, not so long back we interviewed the lovely "YouTube famous" Natasha Nicole Ponomaroff.

Well we thought it was about time to let you know about some more amazing lesbian vloggers from the YouTube universe.

Because YouTube is completely free to use, it's a great resource for LGBTQ information and advice. And 
that's where Arielle Scarcella comes in.

Arielle is no stranger to the online community - her videos have become relatively famous, thanks to her witty, useful commentary revolving around many lesbian and gay issues.

In her most recent video, Arielle asks lesbians to explain how they feel about their lesbian peers sleeping with men.

One of the huge stigmas in the LGBT community, are lesbians who secretly sleep with men. Can they still be lesbians if they don't fully fit the definition? Why do they sleep with men if they identify this way? You have to watch to find out!

Where can you watch? Go here for Arielle's YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/ArielleIsHamming.

Do you know of any other amazing LGBTQ YouTubers you think we should mention on All Things Lesbian?

Let us know in the comments or email us with your ideas at allthingsles@gmail.com!

VIDEO: Remembering Stonewall

On this day 44 years ago, the Stonewall riots broke out.

This is an anniversary which many gay people from across the globe look back and thank the brave men who fought the police in these riots all those years ago.

Don't know much about Stonewall?

Let this short video explain it to you:

Today we remember this monumental step towards the ever-growing equality we know today as a gay community.

All NEW Lesbian Web Series: Easy Abby

Phew! It seems like the lesbian film world has really taken to web series in this past year!

Well we have yet another great series for you to check out RIGHT HERE on All Things Lesbian.

This one is called Easy Abby. Check out the synopsis for episode 1:

"Easy Abby" lesbian web series Episode 1 "Portable Feast" (pilot).

Abby has a lovely way with women but not a way with love. When she bumps into a former fling but can't remember the woman's name, Abby starts to wonder if she has what it takes to fall in love. (Series launch!) http://easyabby.com

And here's the first episode, just for you!

Check out the rest of the web series by following the links HERE!

Interview with Lesbian Social Networking Mogul, Natasha Nicole Ponomaroff!

Remember that time you asked for us to interview YouTube/Tumblr/Twitter/everywhere famous, Natasha Nicole Ponomaroff?

Well, look what we have here!

(Photo Credit: Pocket Punt)

All Things Lesbian: The accessibility of the internet around the world has led many young (and old!) lesbian and bisexual women to look up to you. How does this feel? Do you ever feel as though you're under any pressure?

Natasha: I feel rather honored to have such an online presence and I honestly would never take my audience for granted. Coming out is never an easy task, accepting your sexuality is never an easy task, and having to go through both on my own wasn't an easy task. If there was ONE thing I hope to be, it's an outlet for other young LGBT youth who may be struggling with the same struggles I once faced. I want them to look at me and my life and realize that things DO get better, and they will. You just have to stay brave and stay true to who you are. Having such a strong online influence does add a degree of pressure. I know I have a lot of younger girls who look up to me making me in an essence their role model. Although I'm no saint, I do like to present myself in the most respectable of ways. I want to teach women to be somebodies, not somebody's. (Great quote, but it's not mine so don't quote me on that one!)

ATL: Just in case our readers having been living under a rock, when you vlog, what do you like to vlog about?

N: When I vlog I literally never have a set plan. I just turn on the camera and open my mouth, whatever I think about, I vlog about. You can imagine how much footage I don't end up using because I have a tendency to just ramble away! I usually like to throw in one or two quotes of inspiration and/or motivation, but I try and do it discreetly so people will have an easier time remembering the little quotes I throw at them.

ATL: We've noticed that you're very into personal health and exercise. What advice would you give to young women who are looking to be that little bit healthier?

N: Yes, I've recently become quite the health nut! My best advice would be this; throw away all the scales you have in your life. Numbers mean nothing now. People tend to focus too much on the numbers and not how they're feeling. You should want to get into shape to better your health! Losing weight and inches are all added incentives of course, but they shouldn't be the main focus. This is lifestyle change, NOT a diet, so be easy on yourself! Change starts when you do.

ATL: Do you think it is important for lesbians and bisexual women to "come out" in the media?

N: I wouldn't necessarily say it's important because coming out is much more of personal journey. Could we use more members on our team in the media eye? Of course! And we welcome them with open arms. But coming out should never be anyone's issue aside from the person coming out. Does that make sense? I hope it does!

ATL: Who inspires you?

N: I'm going to have to be super cliche right now and say that my mother is my biggest inspiration. She is the prime example of what hard work and a great attitude can get you in life. She migrated to the U.S when she was 14, knew NO English, had no family out here, and was able to not only put herself through high school AND college, she was able to get her citizenship completely on her own and her PhD later down the road. She has always been so inspiring and has given me the positive outlook to life that I carry with me today. 

ATL: We've had a lot of questions regarding your very public relationship with YouTuber Jenna Anne. Does that get annoying? How do you overcome something so personal that was once so visible to the public?

N: I wouldn't say annoying, but it does get a little tiresome after a while. I feel like I've answered so many questions regarding that relationship! I was so young, Jenna was so young, I learned so much from it that I will forever carry with me. One thing being to maybe not post so much of my personal dating life online because of the repercussions. It's hard going through a break up, it's even harder when you have 40,000 people wanting to comment on it, but as I said, I learned and I don't regret a thing. When getting through a break up, it's important to remember that things didn't work for a reason. Life has other plans for you and that in itself helped me tremendously. I got excited about the future, I let my past remain there, and I moved on.

ATL: Do you ever attend fan conventions? Have you ever had any weird fan experiences?

N: I've been to Vidcon but that's about it. Have I ever had any weird fan encounters? No not at all! Anyone who has ever recognized me from the internet has always been so sweet when approaching me. I've befriended many of the people who have come up and introduced themselves. That takes a lot of courage! And I love when people say hello!

Time for some fan questions!

"Tash, do you think that there are enough LGBTQ role models in the public eye? When you were growing up who did you look up to? Also you should know that you're my role model and I think you're absolutely beautiful!"

- @Leanne_Ashley, UK

N: Dear @Leanne_Ashley, to answer your question, I do not think there are enough LGBT role models in the public eye, and I wish there were more! Coming out though is such a personal journey though and many aren't comfortable with being so open in the media eye. I hope that with the coming of time though and as sexual orientation becomes more accepted as the "norm", we'll get more LGBT role models emerging. Growing up I looked up to my mother. She's always been my biggest inspiration. The women is just amazing!

"I really want to come out to my family, but I'm scared! How did you do it?" 

- Isobel, CA

N: Dear Isobel, coming out to my family was definitely a nerve wrecking experience! I came out at the end of my senior year as a goal to myself. I knew that going into college I wanted to be 100% comfortable with who I was, no more secrets, and that was my push to come out. I sat down my family members individually on different days, that way I would get practice in regards to talking about it. I realized that with the more people I came out to, the easier it became to do it.

"I follow you on Tumblr and see you writing the nicest things about your future wife. How can a girl capture your heart?"

- Chloe, ME

N: Dear Chloe, you are the sweetest! Thank you for taking the time to read my writings. That honestly means so much to me! How can a girl capture my heart you ask... well, I really don't have an answer to that question. The heart wants what the heart wants, I don't have any control over her (although at times I wish I did!)

Click these links to follow Natasha on Twitter and Tumblr! (And HERE is a quick link to her YouTube channel, just in case you've been missing out!)

Queer As Folk's Thea Gill Stars in "Failing Upwards"

So, lesbians. I'm not sure how many of you watched Queer as Folk (I certainly didn't), but great news if you were a fan of Thea Gill on the show: she's starring in the web series finale of 'Failing Upwards'!

I did see Thea in the ultra-gay, ultra-camp TV show, Dante's Cove, so I know she's a legit talent... But what exactly is Failing Upwards, you ask?

"Failing Upwards" is a brand new feel good comedy web series about unemployment and the hilarity of finding a job…even if you have to lie to get one.

Failing Upwards stars writers/creators: Alma Award-Winning actress Michelle C. Bonilla (Celena) and Matt Crabtree (Charlie). Rounding out the cast are writers Deidra Edwards (Annabelle) and Pip Lilly (Pip). The guest cast includes Thea Gill, Stephanie Erb, and Gerald McCullouch.

What openly out actors Michelle Bonilla and Matt Crabtree have created is not just another web series but a timely social series that creates comedy out of heart break, provides a chuckle to those who “pound the pavement” every single day, and most importantly show how little it takes to reverse some of the negative psychological effects that come with being unemployed and living off of "survival jobs". 

Via the series' official website, they also gives back to the job seeking community by supplying online viewers with links to job source sites, discounts, tips, and relevant news topics of the day.

You can click HERE to see Thea in action OR right below this post, here on All Things Lesbian!

Stay gay xo

(Source | FailingUpwards1 via YouTube)