From the Fifth Floor

So as many of you know, since my wee days as a young kid I’ve been obsessed with the Today Show. Before today, I had been on the show 5 times. And then today happened. Today made SIX.

Before today, I was on the show:

1. As a 10 year old in the crowd
2. Interviewed in the crowd after weather report with my mom in high school
3. Waving with a school group in high school
4. Featured in a segment due to the BEST HALLOWEEN costumes ever
5. Part of the costumed audience for the Halloween reveal

So I’ve pretty much been featured in every way possible for Today, EXCEPT for actually being in the physical studio. So of course- that is my dream goal in life.

It began last week when KLG and Hoda (the most wonderful 4th hour of Today hosts) posted that they were looking for someone in the New York area to give a mini-makeover too and to email if interested. Well duh- I did. It was fate. I knew it was going to happen. I actually told my boss I would be late to work today, on Thursday. Sending those positive vibes right?

So on Sunday night a producer called me- they loved my story (young professional/all college wardrobe/knee surgery/looking for new start/and my dad used to babysit Hoda) but there was a catch…

The whole hour was to be a workout special. They have a bunch of fans coming into the Equinox in Rockefeller Plaza to exercise throughout the show and shoot on screen. The fan with the worst outfit would get a makeover. So the challenge wasn’t over. I had to have the worst outfit- or I was going to be working out in the Equinox for the whole segment and NOT make my goal of being in the studio.

So I put together the worst outfit.

Well, technically it was NOT the worst. But it was bad (see “Before” picture above). But also really true to my workout form. They were also looking for someone with personality and who they liked. And they liked me!  We joked, we chatted, we bonded over colleges. I really liked them too… we were all buddies by the end of the day (and not just shmoozing or anything weird). And they LOVED the story about my dad babysitting Hoda.

And so that was it! They chose me! It was like the whole she-bang- hair/makeup/ a rush of adrenaline as they got me ready in 30 minutes. I was super pumped when they did and I got featured on the show in a mini-makeover challenge… IN THE STUDIO. I DID IT!!

I even got to talk to Hoda for a hot-second as she ran to the next segment about the babysitting craziness. And KLG thought I was adorable :)

So below are some creepy photos I tried to grab of the whole adventure. Literally- made my lifetime. I’ll be giddy for at least a week.

And YES I got to keep all the clothes (and bag and shoes and watch)!!!

And the day begins in my favorite place.. 30 Rock.

The other ladies setting up for the taping

Jill Martin (Fashion Correspondent) and the crew get ready

After I was chosen! The best moment of my life.. walking INTO the Today Show/30 Rock Studio with Jill.

Jill bringing me into hair and makeup!

I was definitely in the way as they sped to get me done. But I got my hair did!

KLG’s Dressing Room!!!

I was in the Green Room!!

The best thing I saw… coat hooks for Al, Matt, Natalie and Savannah!

I MADE IT INTO THE STUDIO!! STUDIO 1A!!

Proof that I made it.. in my new fancy shoes!

Jill Martin and I after the shoot! I can’t believe it all happened!!