I met Alexis Bellino at a nail salon in Newport Beach, and for a while I genuinely believed we were friends. We also shared several mutual friends, and throughout out friendship there was never a falling out or any unkindness between us. I always tried to support with her loyalty and kindness, even if I did not agree.
The only point of tension came when she was removed from Designer Runway. I voted against the decision, and that was the extent of it. Unfortunately, it now seems she may have valued our friendship mainly for my connection to Designer Runway. Later, when she aligned herself with Kathy Marino — which had a reputation for portraying the housewives negatively — it became a topic of discussion within the Designer Runway board as Kathy Marino approached us to do a runway show with her. Even so, I tried to protect her while still fulfilling my responsibilities. No NDA was ever signed, and I never acted against her in any way. If anything, I defended her, from the very first day we met. That, to me, is what friendship looks like.
Despite my effort, she chose to end the friendship without explanation. I cared deeply for her and her family, and I defended her many times, even during and after her divorce. But after being blamed for something unrelated to me, I stepped back. It felt strange to be held responsible while watching her grow close to people who had contributed to chaos in her life.
It was painful, but I still wish her well. If she used me, that reflects her choices, not mine. I don’t use people.
With light,
Jennifer Nicole Nelson, Principal Designer
Leave a Reply