#simdonia extras

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Honeymoon Rental | Puerto Llamante, Selvadorada

Getting a reservation at the famed Llamante Temple restaurant is no easy feat, but luckily Grayson and Olivia had no problem. For their last night on the trip, they enjoyed a romantic dinner, then explored the temple for some time. One of the best experiences in Puerto Llamante! They kept it low key and a bit spicy once they got back to the rental once again.

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Honeymoon Rental | Puerto Llamante, Selvadorada

You can't head to the Selvadoradian jungle without exploring it. It's been a while since Grayson did, but he was excited to do it with his new, beautiful wife. Olivia was excited, as well, and had no problems keeping up with the adventure. Once they made it to the royal baths, it began to rain so they camped out for a romantic evening.

[bridgeportbritt]

Exploring | Puerto Llamante, Selvadorada

The couple decided to stay in a part of Selvadorada they haven't been together before. The last time Grayson had been to this part of the country, he was a teen on vacation with his bio dad and grandparent. While they love Belomisia, there was so much to see in the country. The visted the Puerto Llamante Marketplace, the spa and even did some fishing before retreating back to their rental for alone time.

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Since we saw quite a bit of these two yesterday, here's even more lol. Absolutely 100% spot on for both! Like I could see these people walking down the street!

[bridgeportbritt]

Honeymoon Rental | Puerto Llamante, Selvadorada

The couple arrive to a beautiful jungle villa secluded into the dense Selva forest. Selvadorada holds a special place in Grayson and Olivia's hearts. Not only is Grayson half-Selvadorian on his dad's side, but he is also rekindled his relationship with Olivia here. Olivia's excited to relax after months of intense wedding planning while Grayson is excited to explore and discover some artifacts. Of course, the couple is also looking forward to other honeymoon activities they can enjoy together...

[bridgeportbritt]

SimDonia Royals and Natural Hair

Prompted by today's post, I figure it's a great time to talk about natural hair and why the SimDonia monarchy doesn't allow it. So buckle up for some SimDonia lore.

You may have noticed that although the SimDonia Royals are majority black, the black women almost never wear their curly hair in public. Especially for events and portraits and such, it's always straight hair.

There is a reason for this. But first a little background on natural hair for those who don't know.

Basically many black people have naturally curly/kiny hair. Throughout Western history, black people especially women have been discriminated against for their hair. Natural hair has been deemed unprofessional, unkept, messy, etc. This has caused many black women for centuries to turn to products like relaxers (chemically straightens hair), hot combs (like a flat iron), flat irons, wigs, etc. to achieve the straight hair that was deemed appropriate. There's some basic context for you. Now, let's get into SimDonia history.

We mainly have these two women to thank for the hair politics we see with SimDonia Royals today (note that I'm saying royals and not society as a whole. Royals run by totally different rules than regular folk).

On the left, we have SimDonia's first Queen, Queen Ophelia. While on the right, we have SimDonia's second Queen, Queen Katherine. Both Queen's by marriage.

As we can see, Queen Ophelia is white and she has naturally straight hair. Ophelia's legacy is one of the most famous and highly respected of any Queen. She was the first after all and paved the way for how tradition was set for the other royals, especially women. Basically, she became the standard for many things from etiquette to fashion and even hair. Royal women have emulated her style for years to the point where other styles are deemed prohibited.

Then you bring in Queen Katherine who had the worst legacy of any Queen since her husband abdicated from the throne. As you can see, she is black and she has naturally curly hair. She was also never afraid to wear it even in portraits and such. But since her legacy was tarnished there are things that royals don't do because of her. Some of her tiaras aren't to be worn, her jewelry, and unfortunately her curly hair.

Now of course, SimDonia royals fashion royals have never truly been set in stone. The expectations have always been unwritten until now. So, you will see it from time to time like when Diana brought the curls out on her world tour in Sulani or when Bria wore her curly hair on The Style Report during the swimwear episode. We often see Ella and Lillian wearing her curls from since rules are less strict on minors/non-senior members.

However, it is more set in stone with Diana's new rules that hair should be "still and neat" and "in place at all times" implying that curly hair is not allowed. So, we shall see where things land. More to come!

Thanks to @crownsofesha for that amazing photo of Bria and Emmitt for an event coming up!

And @storiesbyjes2g for opening up the pandora's box in my head one more time lol

[bridgeportbritt]

Since we'll be seeing these two this week in a very cute and excited post!!! I figured it's time to see them in their AI glory lol

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I Knew You Were Trouble When You Walked In by Bella Donna

Bella Donna is back with new music, new management, and a performance on the books! She will be joining artists at this years "Strength in Solidarity" Pride celebration at Saturday, Summer 28 in Pride Park!

You can make your own poster here!

@ladybugsimblr

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Ella's BUS Residence | Sage, SimDonia

Ella sighs

Ella to herself: We were so cute at prom.

Ella sighs

Ella to herself: Could've literally been a perfect night...

Ella to herself: If it wasn't for him...

Another day, another aged up girlie in this story! This time it's miss Ella who is officially a Britechester University of SimDonia student! But let's take a look at her SimDonia Prep graduation and larger than life bday party. Shall we?

Our girl was valedictorian, gave a speech and the event actually worked for her to get a diploma! (I did do a screenshotted version of the graduation just in case it didn't work though lol)

The whole squad got their diplomas and the whole fam came to celebrate the occasion!

The Creeksbrey ballroom transformed into a party palace fit for a young Duchess throwing a bash for her young adult birthday! All her friends came and even Maia and Kali flew in. She was showered in gifts, aged up and danced to a new life as a young adult!

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Creeksbrey Palace | Umbrage, SimDonia

Music playing and girls singing

Victoria singing: It's finally prom! It's finally here! And I've got the dreamiest date of the year.

Chantel laughs: You are too much.

Ella: I mean, she does have a great date. I'm still not over how cute his promposal was.

Victoria: I know! To orchestrate it with other sims in our class! It was just perfect.

Ella: As you deserve.

Chantel: I can admit that was super cute. Should've known your crush was an athlete. You and Ella have that in common.

Victoria: Aw, your promposal was so cute, too, Elle!

Ella: Yeah, it was pretty cute.

Chantel: The look on your face was priceless. Not to mention the bystanders...

Victoria quietly: Chantel!

Ella frustrated: Yes, it was very thoughtful. And now we're all going to prom and it's going to be the greatest night of our lives blah blah blah. Ugh, why can't I get this stupid earring in?

Victoria: Here, let me help you!

Ella: It's fine. I got it.

Chantel sarcastic: Greatest night of our lives ahead indeed.

Victoria: Yes, it will be! I will make sure of it and you know I will! Time to get excited! We're going to prom!

Bria: Girls, your dates are at the front gate! Let's get a move on! I just want to take a few photos before you leave.

She did not take just a few photos...

[bridgeportbritt]

Creeksbrey Palace | Umbrage, SimDonia

Bria, of course, coordinates a private dress fitting for Olivia from one of her favorite Simerican designers. While there were some differing opinions on what Olivia should wear, after trying on a few pieces, Olivia says yes to the dress!

Transcript Under the Cut

Bria: Victoria! Thank you so much for coming. I know it’s a hassle getting everything over here.

Victoria: Oh, my Watcher. For you? No bother at all. I’m honored, Your Royal Highness.

Bria: You know Bria is fine, girl! You know most of the peanut gallery, except the bride’s mom - Grand Countess Esther.

Esther: Nice to meet you!

Bria: And, of course, the bride - Countess Olivia. Olivia, meet one of my favorite designers - Victoria Becksim!

Olivia: It’s so nice to meet you. Thank you so much for your help!

Victoria: Of course, darling. I’m happy to help. Let’s get started, shall we?

Bria: Are you burting with excitement as much as I am or is that just me?

Esther: I’m trying my absolute best not to cry.

Victoria: Alright, so I took everyone’s notes and here’s one of the designs we came up with. I believe it was you, Esther, that would love to see Olivia in something classic and traditional. So, tell me what you think.

Esther: Oh, I love it! It’s so elegant!

Bria: Uh... you don’t think it’s a little too elegant? Even the Watcher would show more skin than this.

Esther: Oh, I think it’s perfect. What do you think, Olivia?

Olivia: Uh... it’s nice, but I don’t think I’m in love with it.

Victoria: Alright, on to the next then one, love.

Victoria: Okay, this one was from Bria’s notes which were to have embellishments, make it a little sexy, and of course, have flair!

Bria: Okay! Don’t hurt ‘em, Liv! This is what we wanna see!

Esther: Uh.. I think that we’re seeing a little too much!

Ella: It’s certainly hard to miss.

Rose: You look like a princess, Olivia!

Olivia: Thank you. I don’t quite think this one’s my style, although it is beautiful.

Victoria: Alright, time for the one I’ve been most excited to show. This is from Olivia’s notes. Let’s try this one.

Victoria: Funnily enough, Miss Olivia actually had a best of both worlds moment. In her notes, she wanted something classic like Esther wanted yet with a flair that made her feel pretty, yet sexy like Bria wanted. And, here’s what we came up with.

Bria: Yep, here comes the waterworks. I think... I think this one’s it.

Esther tearful: Olivia, honey. You look absolutely beautiful.

Victoria: Now those are reactions we like. And the bride?

Olivia tearful: Victoria, I think this is the one.

Shoutout to @eslanes for her Victoria Beckham sim from her spice girls sims! She came in handy lol

[bridgeportbritt]

Brichester University of SimDonia | Sage, SimDonia

A glimpse into college life for Ella and friends! Lots of studying and lots of extra-curricular activities.

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I'm pretty sure I sent a message just like this last year, but I'm sure you don't mind the repeat lol. I love how much time and effort you pour into your kingdom and story! With all the information you've shared with us over the years about the government, history, customs, people, etc., Simdonia feels so real. I know sometimes you say you do "too much," and you totally do lol, but all the extra just adds to the richness of the country, the story...everything! Thanks for all you do! It's very enjoyable.

Jes!!! Thank you for giving me all the feels!!!! From you, that is a high compliment friend because you know I feel like I know your characters like the back of my hand because of your writing.

I actually really enjoy worldbuilding like even more than storytelling sometimes! lol. It makes it easier to tell the story when there is so much context. Hoping to have more and more to show as my brain keeps churning stuff out about this made up country lol

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The Process. The Product.

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VictoriaSimsten: When the teacher's away, the ballet butterflies will play! 🦋🩰 Shout out to @chantelbanks for capturing me and Ella for @iambkay's #bkbutterflychallenge!

chantelbanks and you're welcome! 🔥🔥🔥

jojo2894 You get your ballet skillz from your other mom, but your coolness from me! 😂

notduchessbriasfinsta this is so cute! So glad the bkay love did not skip any generations! 😍

lukas1343 Ella tho!!! 💗

karleeisbetter Ella is def not doing that pose right...

simdoniaroyalobsessed OMW Look at Ella! She is so beautiful! Let her have her own insta we can obsess over @simdoniaroyals!!

debrasimsten Vicky so adorbs! 💖 mom

nomoremonarchs So this is what our tax dollars are going to? sigh

ericvanzandt Nice!

anthonyparnell BK party at BUS? #definitelynotlonelyatcollege #missyouguys

@ladybugsimblr

[bridgeportbritt]

Creeksbrey Palace | Umbrage, SimDonia

Bria: Oh my watcher! This just came in?

Footman: Yes, Your Royal Highness. The box along with the flowers from Miss Bailey Kay.

Bria: Wow, this is so nice! Is Ella home from school yet? She’s going to freak when she sees this.

Footman: I’ll check, Your Royal Highness.

Bria: Thank you.

Ella sarcastic: You rang, Your Royal Highness?

Bria: Cut it out. Look what came for us today?

Ella surprised: Is that what I think it is?

Bria excited: I think so!

Ella excited: Ahhh! It’s beautiful!

Bria: It is. BK even sent us flowers and a little note. It says, “To my favorite royal butterflies, I hope you get the Palace poppin’ with this one! Love BK.”

Ella laughs: Oh my, Watcher. I love her so much.

Bria: You know what this means, don’t you?

Ella: What?

Bria: It’s time.

Ella: Time for what?

Bria: Time to indoctrinate the final Wu-Winston butterfly.

Ella: Oh, you’re right! Time for Rose to get her wings like I did.

Bria: Let’s put on the new merch and get our little sis ready for this musical experience.

Ella excited: Oh my, Watcher! You know what I just thought about?

Bria: What?

Ella: Maybe BK will go on a Butterfly tour and we can actually go in person this time!

Bria: You know what? You might be right! As fun as our little watch party was when you were younger, seeing a live performance would be so fun. I’ll see what I can do when the time comes.

Ella: Yay! Okay, I’m going to go get changed and get Rose!