LONG BEACH – The inaugural All-Love + Fortune Pop-Up Series, held September 30th, was a resounding success, drawing over 150 attendees from diverse backgrounds who converged to celebrate the spirit of inclusivity within racquet sports.
Founder Erika Bond’s vision to create a welcoming and authentic space resonated, with the event showcasing a vibrant tapestry of on-court action and off-court engagement.
“The vision behind All-Love was born from my personal journey as a person of color in the world of tennis, both as a player and coach,” said Bond. “Through All-Love, my aim is to transform that narrative and create a welcoming space for anyone interested in racquet sports.”
The event’s true strength lies in its diversity. Attendees from various walks of life gathered for a day of tennis, community, and entertainment. The courts buzzed with energy as players, both seasoned and new, connected over the shared love for the sport.
While tennis took center stage, a plethora of captivating activities awaited non-tennis enthusiasts. From yoga and crafting sustainable succulent planters within tennis balls to sampling luxury sea moss products and a high-intensity interval training session, the event offered something for everyone. This diverse array of offerings ensured that all attendees felt both included and thoroughly entertained.
Several influential brand partners supported the event. Wilson, the official sponsor, brought a dynamic presence to the event, showcasing their top-of-the-line tennis equipment. Outlier provided a wardrobe for the talented singers who graced the stage, while ALALA offered gift cards for giveaway winners. Barriere contributed protective hand and body lotion for the swag bags, adding a wellness touch to the event.
The musical performances were nothing short of spectacular. Renowned Creative Performance Producer, Steve Epting, orchestrated a performance featuring singers with credits alongside Beyonce, Jay-Z, Kanye West, SZA, Adele, Alicia Keys, and more. Their selections after the trophy ceremony added a touch of musical excellence to the event.
Local vendors brought a unique flair to the event. From the Experience Pop-Up Spa’s signature bodywork to Slseamoss’ luxury sea moss offerings, each vendor added a distinct touch to the All-Love + Fortune experience. Just Nice Ice Cream satisfied sweet cravings, while Pacific Coast Champions Tennis Association promoted tennis among people of color, enriching the community.
GP Local Tacos served up a fusion of flavors with their Korean-inspired tacos, offering both traditional and vegetarian options. Seed 2 Table, helmed by Chef Ryan Lacy, provided meal prep meals that connected attendees to nature through cooking and gardening.
The event also witnessed a beautiful reunion between Grey’s Anatomy actor, Anthony Hill, and coach Manny Fortune. Their paths first crossed at the Toluca Lake Tennis Center years ago. Since then, Manny has transitioned into coaching, while Anthony’s acting career has soared to new heights. Anthony seized the opportunity to step onto the court and wield Wilson’s latest innovation, the “Shift” racquet. Remarkably, he shared that it had been three years since he last graced a tennis court.
Founder Erika Bond’s dedication and efficient execution were instrumental in the event’s success. The All-Love Racquet Club community looks forward to building on this foundation and continuing to redefine the narrative of inclusivity in racquet sports.
“With the fanbase of the sport becoming more and more diverse, there is an increasing need to develop a collective and brand, like All-Love, that feels accessible and safe for everyone to engage with. I am determined to change the narrative and perception of tennis to make the sport more inclusive,” said Bond. “The vision behind All-Love was born from my personal journey as a person of color in the world of tennis, both as a player and coach. In many cases, sports and community naturally intertwine, but when you engage in a sport that wasn’t originally designed with you in mind, it can be an isolating experience. Through All-Love, my aim is to transform that narrative and create a welcoming space for anyone interested in racquet sports.”
