Actress, Host, Chef, and food Judge D'Andra Simmons is a Dallas-born personality in the culinary and entertainment field. Formerly part of The Real Housewives of Dallas, she now explores countless industry realms, like skincare & wellness, with brands like "Hard Night Good Morning" and "Ultimate Living". Simmons also has experience in co-production with films like "Daring Greatly" and recently "Celebrity Wine Cruise." Now actively developing cooking shows, a YouTube series, a line of rubs, sauces, and a cookbook, Simmons continues to find new ways to represent her culinary artistry.

Tell us about how your Texas roots inspire your endeavors and involvements in the culinary industry.
My Texas roots have always been a significant source of inspiration for my culinary endeavors. Being born and raised in Texas, I was exposed to a rich tapestry of flavors and food traditions that are deeply rooted in our state's culture. It's a place where BBQ, Tex-Mex, and Southern comfort food are not just meals; they're part of our identity.

My connection to Texas cuisine has driven me to explore and innovate within these culinary traditions. Whether it's developing new BBQ sauce recipes, putting a unique twist on Tex-Mex classics, or even frying chicken with alternative flours like rice flour (which makes it deliciously crispy), I'm constantly drawn to celebrating and preserving the flavors of my home state. Texas used to be its own nation, and Texans are incredibly proud of our heritage. The food influences from Mexico and the other countries south of our border, as well as the American Indian tribes that are based here and to the north, east and west play a very big role in our cuisine.

Moreover, Texas hospitality has shaped my approach to the culinary industry. Texans are extremely friendly, hospitable, and charitable. As a fifth generation “Dallasite.” I am proud of my city and my roots. I went to school all over the world and no matter where I go, even to this day, I only have to say, “I am from Dallas”, end of statement! People in every country and continent know Dallas and Texas, and they always want to visit the Lone Star State. In Texas, we believe in the power of food to bring people together, and that's a philosophy I carry with me in all my culinary endeavors. Whether it's through restaurant or community events, I aim to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where people can enjoy delicious food and meaningful connections. I always say that you get to know a person much better when you share a meal with them, and especially if you cook it yourself from your heart.

Overall, my Texas roots serve as a foundation for my passion in the culinary world, reminding me of the importance of tradition, flavor, family friendship and the joy of sharing great food with others.

**Left:**
Khaki 2 piece outfit by GRÉVYI
Earrings by Chanel
Ring by Forsberg Fine Jewelry
**Right:**
Pink Dress by Prada
Earrings by Forsberg Fine Jewelry
Bracelets by D'Andra's own
Shoes by Prada
Ducks courtesy of Duck Duck Goat

What pushed you to start a culinary career, and pursue it through the Executive Program of Culinary School at Dallas College?
My love for food and creating memorable food experiences played a significant role. After The Real Housewives of Dallas went on hiatus, I decided I wanted to use this as a platform to showcase my love of food and my talents in the kitchen, but I needed the basics in culinary education and Dallas College had a program that allowed me to attend school and work at the same time. I got up at 4 AM for school, arrived by 6 AM and studied until 9 AM. Then I headed to my regular job as a skin care and nutrition CEO at Hard Night Good Morning skin care and Ultimate Living International nutrition company. I was tired but excited and driven. Now I miss those mornings with my class and chef instructor, Segundo Romero, as it was an incredible way to begin my day. I was inspired by the culinary traditions of Texas I've cherished since childhood as I mentioned before, plus my grandmothers’ and their cooking traditions, as well as my mother and father’s delicious food. My dad was part Cajun, and everyone knows there is a whole food culture in that ethnicity! I grew up loving spicy foods and chilies. In addition, my travels all over the world to almost 80 countries allowed me to experience new and delectable foods. I have never turned down a new bite or flavor. I will try almost anything once. I've always been passionate about experimenting with flavors, exploring different cuisines, and developing my own recipes. Cooking, for me, is a form of self-expression, and I wanted to take that passion to the next level.

I believe that food has the power to bring people together and create meaningful connections. I wanted to create spaces and experiences where people could gather, enjoy delicious food, and create lasting memories.

The Executive Program of Culinary School at Dallas College provided the perfect platform for me to formalize my culinary skills and gain the knowledge and expertise needed to excel in the industry. It was a challenging, yet incredibly rewarding journey that allowed me to blend my passion for cooking with the skills and education necessary to make a significant impact in the culinary world. In addition, it was and still is a great networking stage to introduce myself to the Dallas community as a serious chef. I have met so many people through the Dallas College program and we all support and help each other in this field.

What is your favorite food to cook?
My favorite food to cook must be BBQ, but in particular, I love a prime steak on a live fire grill. There is nothing like the taste of a mouthwatering steak cooked over a wood fire. You can experiment with all types of woods to impart the SIXTH flavor to the meat…smoke! UMAMI is a thing of the past! There is a new kid in town, and it is called SMOKE! There is also something incredibly special about the slow and methodical process of smoking meat, infusing it with layers of flavor and tenderness. Apart from cooking steak on the grill, BBQ embodies the culture of each state and culture from where it hails. In Texas, we are known for beef brisket, ribs and rich sweet tomato BBQ sauces. I'm always excited to fire up the smoker and create mouthwatering dishes that pay homage to whatever heritage I am emulating. Whether it's brisket, ribs, pulled pork, kebabs, oxtail, lamb shoulder—the list goes on and on--the art of BBQ never ceases to amaze me, and I find immense joy in perfecting the craft and sharing delicious food and recipes with others.

**Right:**
White dress by Kham'ryn B
Boots by Paisleys luxe Boutique
Earrings by D'Andra's own

What has learning under the guidance of professional chef Segundo Romero taught you about your approach to the culinary industry?
Chef Segundo Romero has instilled in me the importance of precision and attention to detail in every aspect of cooking, plus time management, which I am still learning. From knife skills to mother sauces, seasoning and then plating, he's shown me that the smallest details can make a significant difference in the final dish. His dedication to perfection has become a core part of my culinary philosophy.

He encourages me to think outside the box, try new flavor combinations, and push the boundaries of traditional recipes. His Argentine background bodes well with my love of grilling and smoking meat. He has not only expanded my culinary horizons, but also inspired me to create unique and memorable dishes from around the world. His mentorship has deepened my passion for the culinary arts and has given me the knowledge and skills to approach the industry with confidence and creativity.

Tell us about "Simply Simmons" and "Fireshow,." Your line of rubs, sauces, and other food products, and how they represent you.
"Simply Simmons" and "Fireshow" are not just products; but they reflect my culinary journey, my passion for flavor, and my commitment to bringing the best products to the kitchen and dining table. "Simply Simmons" represents my belief in the beauty of simplicity and making cooking uncomplicated, so that everyone can do it. It is a philosophy I try to espouse in my cooking repertoire. I am not embarking on molecular gastronomy. That is not what this is about. I leave that to the experts and kitchen science nerds. Cooking should not be a scary endeavor. I find that so many people don’t even try to cook because they are afraid of the outcome and what others will say about their dishes. If you can read and pay attention to time and temperature, you can cook. Just start by “simply” learning 10 dishes and have them written down as a “go-to” for a quick meal. Keep ingredients at a minimum, so you are not overburdening yourself. Choose things you can cook in one pan or dish, so your investment in pots, pans and dishes is at a minimum.

“Simply Simmons” is also the name of my cooking show on YouTube. In a world often filled with overly complex and processed options, "Simply Simmons" celebrates the art of simplicity in cooking, where a few well-chosen ingredients can elevate any meal.

On the other hand, "Fireshow" embodies my love for storytelling, bold experiences, and exciting flavors. It's all about adding a fiery and memorable twist to your dining. Under the “Fireshow” brand I am offering live fire cooking and private dining experiences for parties or events alongside my mentor, Chef Segundo Romero. It's also a developing line in collaboration with Chef Segundo Romero, of high-quality rubs, sauces, food products and kitchen tools crafted with the finest ingredients, carefully selected to enhance the natural flavors of the dishes they accompany. This brand is constantly expanding as we are presented with new opportunities to embrace. We also are crafting and developing cooking classes for select groups at my home as we have been bombarded with requests from people to learn how to cook.

**Left:**
Brown dress by Forsberg Fine Vintage
Belt by ETRO
Earrings: Forsberg Fine Jewelry
Rings by Citrine, Dee Simmons Private Collection
Forsberg Fine Jewelry
Clutch by Moo Roo Charleston
**Right:**
Black 2 piece outfit by GRÉVYI
Jewelry by Bracelet & ring are D'Andra's courtesy of Dee Simmons vintage collection.
Earrings by Canvas Style
Shoes by Chanel

Tell us about your experience being a part of producing different shows, whether that is “Celebrity Wine Cruise “and your work with “Film Volt.”
Both experiences have allowed me to blend my passion for developing, acting, producing, hosting, hospitality, entertainment, and sometimes the culinary arts. The “Celebrity Wine Cruise” is a unique concept project that combines my 6+ years of experience in the Reality TV genre and my love of wine and food. I am all-too familiar with what is necessary to host a show of this caliber. I am co-hosting both the European and American versions of the show. It will challenge the discernment and tasting skills of celebrities as they learn to differentiate between wines to make it to the ultimate and last trial, where one person is crowned the Sommelier of the group!

It is a competition show like “Dancing with the Stars” or “Survivor”, where one celebrity is eliminated every week. The celebrities will live together in tight quarters and their relationships will be challenged as well as their taste buds.

Working with Mark Busby, Billy Greer, and the Film Volt Group has been equally rewarding. It has given me a renewed interest in the world of film production. I attended film classes at UCLA, American Film Institute and Panavision in the 1990s, and I learned every aspect of TV and Film Production in addition to being an actress, singer, and dancer since I was very young. I love the way storytelling comes to life through the lens. Being a part of such creative endeavors has deepened my appreciation for the art of visual storytelling and the collaborative effort it takes to bring a project to fruition. I received my AEA and SAG-AFTRA card in my late teens and early twenties, but it wasn’t “my time” back then. Now, I truly feel as if I am getting a chance to re-embark on the career “love of my life” by re-engaging in the performing arts.

I’m grateful for the incredible opportunity to explore different facets of the entertainment industry, and I look forward to continuing to seek new horizons and projects as they come along. With each project I learn a little more about myself and about human nature. I am always learning and evolving.

**Left:**
Blue 2 piece outfit by Paisleys luxe Boutique
Earrings- Forsberg Fine Jewelry
Big ring by From Dee Simmons vintage collection
Band by D'Andra's own
**Right:**
Khaki 2 piece outfit by GRÉVYI
Earrings by Chanel
Ring by Forsberg Fine Jewelry

Tell us about your passion for skincare, and how your companies came to fruition.
My passion for skincare is deeply rooted in my own journey to have healthier, more radiant skin. When I was 18 years old, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, and subsequently all the women on her side of the family were diagnosed with either breast cancer or some other type of cancer. I learned from my research at that time that the skin is the largest body organ, and it is just as important what you put on the outside of your skin as what goes into your body via nutrition, aka I believe in “nutrition for the skin”. This journey with my mom after her cancer diagnosis inspired me to go to Naturopathic Doctor school and inspired the creation of her line of nutrition products, Ultimate Living, and my skincare brand, Hard Night Good Morning. My passion for skin care goes beyond aesthetics; it's about self-care and self-confidence and self-preservation through healthy lifestyle and anti-aging. I believe that when you invest in your skin, you're investing in your overall well-being. Skincare is a form of self-love, and I wanted to make it natural, affordable, and accessible to everyone.

The journey from a skincare enthusiast to the founder of Hard Night Good Morning has been a labor of love. It's been a journey of my own thirst for knowledge and healthy aging, a collaboration with clinical and research experts, and the relentless pursuit of quality and efficacy in our products. Today, I'm proud to offer a skincare line that embodies my passion for clean beauty and empowers individuals to embrace their own natural beauty with confidence.

What is the inspiration behind your skincare company “Hard Night Good Morning”?
Hard Night Good Morning emerged from my commitment to clean and natural beauty. I wanted to create a skincare line that I could trust and share with others, a brand that would empower people to look and feel their best. The name itself, "Hard Night Good Morning," embodies the idea of rejuvenation and renewal after a challenging day or night. Skin care is about beauty and helping people look and feel beautiful through radiant skin.

People always ask me about my skin care routine, and I am keenly aware of the way I look, especially in the entertainment and acting profession. Your face is normally the first thing someone sees and unfortunately, they will judge you on that instead of your personality or talent right off the bat. My goal was and is to help women and men put their best face forward and have one less thing to worry about. Oftentimes I do not wear makeup during the day, only tinted sunscreen, and I feel confident about the way I appear to other people. I am diligent with my skin care routine. I try to keep it simple for others as most people don’t have time to use 15 different products in a day.

What is an upcoming project that you're excited about?
A few of the upcoming projects I'm incredibly excited about is the expansion of "Fireshow," my open fire concept private dining and cooking classes in collaboration with the renowned Chef Segundo Romero.

"Fireshow" represents a fusion of my love for bold flavors and culinary creativity. It's a unique dining experience where the art of open fire cooking takes center stage. We're not just cooking food; we're creating a spectacle of flames, aromas, and flavors that ignite the senses.

Expanding "Fireshow" and offering these classes is not only about sharing our passion for food; it's about creating a community of like-minded food lovers who appreciate the magic of open fire cooking. It's about connecting with people who share our enthusiasm for exceptional flavors and unforgettable dining experiences. It will pair delicious foods with equally enticing cocktails and fine wines.

Stay tuned for the exciting developments with "Fireshow." We're eager to continue stoking the fires of culinary passion and sharing the art of BBQ with all who have an appetite for adventure in the world of food.

Besides hosting “Celebrity Wine Cruise” and “The Veteran,” I am also one of two women who have starring roles in the film, “Daring Greatly,” a feature film inspired by the documentary "Was I Next? The Sean Cribbin Story." The film sheds light on a dark period in Canada's history, portraying the story of a notorious serial killer who targeted the LGBTQ2+ community. This will begin to film early next year. I have collaborated with Silverstone Productions to develop a potential Netflix series based on a true story about a woman from Dallas who triumphed against a major bank. This compelling narrative is drawn from her memoir. Last, I had a supporting role in an independent movie filmed this summer called, “Dance” whose trailer just released and will be out in a few months. It is a compelling story that features a veteran and his struggles.

I also acted in a supporting role in a film called, “My Dear” that should be out in theaters shortly. It tells the story of TBI caused by concussions in football.

White dress by Kham'ryn B
Boots by Paisleys luxe Boutique
Earrings by D'Andra's own

What are some tips that have helped you maintain your well-being, both physically and mentally?
It’s a continuous journey, and I believe that self-care should be a priority for everyone. Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. I’ve had different seasons of my life wherein self-care became more difficult to practice. I know for some, self-care can seem like an impossible pleasure that you don’t deserve to take part in or have time for, but it is essential to a balanced lifestyle. I credit my husband, Jeremy Lock, with teaching me the importance of taking time for myself, especially after a busy project or endeavor.

Self-care varies in type of pursuit and energy expenditure. It isn’t always defined as a relaxing activity. You may not even feel great while you are doing it! For example, working out is necessary and uncomfortable at times, however it is part of my self-care routine I do at least 4 times per week, because it makes me feel stronger and healthier in the long run and improves my overall appearance, which also makes me feel good about myself. I may do it today, but I will not see the results until a future time.

My future ego/identity will be happy and feel in the most literal sense, cared for, because I chose to do it today. In the Fall of 2022, I started my fitness journey. Today, a year later, I am proud of my dedication and commitment to my program and healthy routine. I finally started to see and feel real results in the summer of 2023! Sometimes we don’t even realize how much we have changed until we compare before and after photos and mine look astounding! Not many people look forward to their time at the gym huffing and puffing and lifting heavy weights, but the results speak for themselves, and I cannot deny what my eyes, dress size and photos reveal. What I didn’t think I had the energy to do-physical activity-is now a non-negotiable for me. Whether it’s a weightlifting workout with my trainer four times per week, or a yoga barre or Pilates class, or perhaps simply taking a long walk or bike ride, exercise is essential, especially as you get older. It not only keeps me physically fit and preserves my bone mass, but also releases endorphins, which boosts my mood and reduces stress.

In addition to working out, I try to meditate with the help of videos I search on YouTube or other Apps like Calm, and have massages from time to time, plus visit my chiropractor 2-4 times per month. I indulge in self-care rituals like spa days, journaling, or enjoying a favorite hobby (such as cooking) to unwind and recharge.

Nourishing my body with wholesome, nutrient-rich foods is crucial. I take the supplements that my company, Ultimate Living, makes to ensure I’m meeting my body’s needs. Green Miracle is our best-selling nutrition product. My mom was the first woman to develop a whole food phytonutrient rich green food powder and is the perfect way to complement any healthy eating program. It contains fruits, vegetables, green foods, enzymes, antioxidants, minerals, immune builders, and detoxifying nutrients. Proper nutrition is the foundation of both physical and mental well-being. This product provides complete nutrition in one small scoop. I combine it with collagen powder and drink it in water or in a smoothie, depending on the time I have in the morning. It is also great for anyone to take that is fighting an illness as a complementary adjunct product to keep their nutrition at an optimum level.

Being a part of so many different aspects within different industries, how do you find time for yourself?
Setting boundaries and priorities are important measures that allow you to carve out precious time for yourself. By clearly defining your limits and communicating them to others, you create a protective space where you can prioritize your needs, recharge, and engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. These boundaries not only guard your physical and emotional well-being, but also serve as a reminder that your time and energy are valuable resources that deserve to be dedicated to self-care. It is a powerful tool, prioritizing yourself. It lets people know that you put yourself first, and your self-care first, so you can be your best for others. It also forces people to respect you because you respect yourself.

How would you describe your personal style, and how have you been able to incorporate it into different projects like Styled by Simmons?
My personal style is “Classic Glam”. It’s a little edgy and on-trend when it needs to be and when it is appropriate, but most of the time it is timeless and elegant. It reflects my belief in authenticity and the power of self-expression through fashion. I've always gravitated towards classic elegance with a touch of contemporary flair, favoring timeless pieces that exude confidence and sophistication. I love color and prints, especially floral (not for everyone, I know). I wear a lot of jewel tones that compliment my dark hair and medium skin tone. I believe in dressing for “your body type”. For example, if you have a small waist like I do, highlight that, or if you have great legs, show them off. Don’t wear a shift dress because it’s trending if it makes you look like a big block! If you are petite, shift dresses are probably something you should avoid. Leave them to the girls 5’9” and over! Dress for “your” height and body type. I preach this constantly, and I have made many mistakes in this area, so I should know! Just because it’s on a runway or in Vogue doesn’t mean it will look good on you.

In projects like "Styled by Simmons," I've been fortunate to translate this personal style into a platform where I can help others discover their own unique fashion identity at a lower price point. The items on the site are not expensive, but timeless and fun. There are items for every body type and personality on a budget.

It's about celebrating individuality, curating looks that align with one's personality and body type, and ultimately boosting self-confidence through fashion. Whether it's through styling tips, fashion events, or collaborations, I aim to inspire and empower others to embrace their personal style and feel their best every day.

Tell us about your experience getting into supplement health, and how your brand “Ultimate Living” started.
In our family, cancer has touched the lives of several women, and when my mother, Dee Simmons, faced an eight-hour modified radical mastectomy, she decided to transform tragedy into a life-altering mission. Inspired by her determination to help others, I joined her in this newfound purpose. For almost a decade, we embarked on a global journey of personal research in search of a healthier lifestyle. Drawing from our experiences and the knowledge gained from herbalists, naturopaths, nutritionists, and extensive laboratory research scientists, we developed a line of proprietary supplements that lives on and has been improved upon constantly to this day. For 30 years, Ultimate Living has continued to create unique blends rooted in the latest scientific data and research, all manufactured to the highest pharmaceutical standards, strengthening the immune system, and contributing to overall health and wellness. Our mission at Ultimate Living International has always been to create and provide the finest nutritional supplements and skincare products, each formulated with the intention to heal both individuals internally and externally, as well as contribute to emotional well-being. Our phone operators are not just order takers, they are caring individuals with inspiring stories of their own and helpful information to impart. They have been known to bestow an encouraging word or even a prayer when asked. We truly care about our customers! Alongside our supplements, I created Hard Night Good Morning, a naturally derived, aloe vera-based, cruelty-free skincare line. In 2018, my mother retired, and I stepped into her shoes as the President and CEO of Ultimate Living International, the parent company for both lines. I am carrying forward our shared passion and mission to heal the world, one person at a time, starting from within and radiating outward.

What is your favorite part about your job?
My favorite part about my job is the opportunity it gives me to make a positive impact on the lives of others. My personal philosophy is “To live life authentically in order to inspire others.” Whether it’s through my developments in my skincare or nutritional supplement brands, or my love of food and demonstrating to people how much I care by feeding them, storytelling through my acting and producing ventures, involvement in charitable causes serving veterans, victims of human trafficking or domestic violence, or countless other ways through personal and business ventures, it is most importantly the way in which I live my life, that shows I'm passionate about helping people. I cherish the connections I've made along my own journey, from collaborating with experts in various fields to hearing the stories of individuals whose lives have been positively transformed. Ultimately, the ability to make a difference and create meaningful change in people's lives is what truly inspires and drives me in my work.

What are some projects you hope to work on within the next few years?
One of my primary goals is to continue expanding the reach and brand awareness of my skincare line, “Hard Night Good Morning,” and health supplement line “Ultimate Living,” to offer even more innovative products that promote both outer and inner well-being.

We launched two new products last year in “Hard Night Good Morning,” “AminoBrite” and “Burning the Midnight Oil,” that were a huge success, and after the first COVID pandemic I created LKB (liver, kidney and bladder) and Brain Balance in the Ultimate Living line to help with rehabilitating the body and brain after an illness. These have been received with an equal amount of fanfare. My goal is to continue along the same trajectory and formulate more products that benefit people’s health and wellness and speak to their specific needs.

I’ll also continue to study acting with my coach and stay engaged in productions as an actress, producer, and developer of content. I would like to release my cookbook. Now that we have moved into a new home, I can start up my cooking content and recipe creation again, and my husband will be able to photograph images for the book. I am also collaborating on some jewelry lines and other fun items that I love in fashion.

Additionally, I hope to further amplify my efforts in raising awareness for important causes, such as cancer research and veterans' causes through our philanthropic initiatives. Furthermore, I'm continuously exploring opportunities to share my knowledge and experiences through educational platforms, whether it's writing a book, hosting workshops, or engaging in public speaking and sharing my stories to inspire and empower others. Overall, my vision for the future is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities, while also encouraging authenticity in all aspects of life.

CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz + @mikeruiz.one
Photographer: Lori Sapio
Talent: D'Andra Simmons
Fashion Stylist: Styles By Coach Keith
Fashion Stylist: Tiffany Forsberg
Assistant Stylist: Miss Hollywood
Hair + Makeup: Angelique Alexandra
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Renata Salazar, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Location: Duck Duck Goat
RADAR Created by Ayoka Lucas