"Wearing Expectations Like Designer": Book Debut & Signing Event

Join Ohavia Phillips for a night of celebration as she brings  Wearing Expectations Like Designer to life in an exclusive book signing event at MODA - Harvey B. Gantt Center. This is more than just a signing—it’s a full-on experience with a live DJ who doubles as the host, an engaging Q&A session, and a dynamic performance segment. Guests will enjoy a cash bar with curated cocktails and mocktails featuring Red Bull. The night will close out with music, networking, and an exclusive giveaway. 

About the Author

A Brooklyn native thriving in Charlotte, Ohavia Phillips is a dynamic force in sports, media, and entertainment. As an electrifying emcee, in-arena host for The Charlotte Hornets, and award-winning entrepreneur, Ohavia lights up stages, arenas, and events with unmatched energy and impact.

From emceeing marquee events like the Jumpman Invitational, UNCF’s Maya Angelou Women Who Lead Luncheon, and the Ally Tipoff, to hosting the Queen City Awards and Black Girls in Media celebrations, Ohavia’s reach spans industries and audiences. She has been invited to presidential campaign rallies, partnered with esteemed organizations like the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, and consistently commands the mic at the most influential and inspiring events.

In everything she does—from fashion to sports and beyond—Ohavia lives her mantra of “leading with love and impact.” With dreams of establishing a multimedia empire through positivity and connection, Ohavia Phillips is not just living the dream; she’s redefining what it means to create meaningful change in media, entertainment, and beyond.

About the Book

Wearing Expectations Like Designer is part memoir, part guide, and all truth. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt the pressure to show up perfect, polished, and pristine—but deep down knew the “fit” didn’t feel right. In this book, I unpack the weight of societal and self-imposed expectations, likening them to rocking designer clothes that look good on the outside but never truly reflect who we are on the inside. Spoiler alert: true authenticity doesn’t come from what you do—it comes from aligning with your purpose and learning how to wear your life authentically.

I’m not just giving you feel-good words; I’m telling my own business. This book is packed with personal stories that might make you laugh, cry, or hit that secondhand cringe, but they’ll also inspire you to dig into your truth. Because if I can share mine, you can too.

And because you deserve to do more than read—you deserve to do—I’ve included a workbook with prompts, reflection questions, and spaces to jot down your own “what was I thinking?” moments. Rooted in scripture and timeless principles, Wearing Expectations Like Designer is an empowering, practical, and yes, sometimes funny resource for anyone ready to trade the weight of expectations for the freedom of living authentically and on purpose.

If you’ve ever wanted to break free from the pressure to “look the part” and instead step fully into the life meant for you, this book is your permission slip—and your mirror. It’s time to stop dressing for the world and start living for you.

Host or Publisher Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture