Dallas Dweller: Tanya Foster

Dallas is full of colorful characters. There are those you see monthly in the society pages, whose stories are legendary in this town. But, this feature is inspired by the people that I think you should know more about because of their fabulous style, interesting back-story or amazing accomplishments.  Dallas Dweller seeks to introduce you to these fabulous faces.  Tanya Foster is someone I see at every big social event, luncheon or gala. The next day, she's Instagramming from the set of a movie. The next week, she's tweeting from Cabo. Then she's checking into a Board meeting for a charity event on Facebook. This lady is everywhere and seems to know everyone. I like that and set out to lear more about her. Here's her story:

Tanya Foster

Tanya Foster describes herself as "Consultant, producer, actor, commercial print model, multi-tasking mom and wife." Clearly, she does not like to sit still. A native Texan, Foster originally hails from Houston but has called Dallas her home for more than 25 years. She is best known for her work in the non-profit sector through tanya foster consulting.
Her role with the Dallas Film Society included serving as the Executive Director of the Dallas International Film Festival in 2010 and 2011. Foster says it is here that she found her passion for film. In 2011 she made the leap to talent by working on local productions such as TNT’s “Dallas”, commercials and commercial print for clients including Visionworks, Chase Sapphire, Osage Casino, Golf Galaxy, J.D. Byrider and Fit Logic.
Foster is also involved with many leading charitable organizations in Dallas as a volunteer. She has chaired the Junior League of Dallas Ball, the Cattle Baron’s Ball, numerous luncheons and galas as well as currently serving as an active member of the Crystal Charity Ball. She also serves on several boards and advisory boards. Giving back to the community continues to be a top priority for Foster.
Currently, she is working with The Elisa Project on their fall fashion show – ESTEEM and their spring luncheon, the 9th annual Life Lessons Luncheon. She is also focused on a brand new event for the Old Red Museum which will feature an opening night event and nine month exhibit revolving around J. Erik Jonnson and Dallas in the 1960’s. "It will truly be spectacular and fit in with the entire 50th anniversary of JFK celebrations going on in Dallas this November," says Foster.
Rapid Fire Q&A with Tanya Foster
Give me 3 words that you feel describe you.
Hard working, loyal and dependable
Now give me three words that OTHER people would use to describe you.
Creative, honest and giving
When you need some "me" time to relax, where do you go or what do you do to relax and recharge? 
I’m a real spa girl. It really helps me recharge my batteries. My favorite go-to spa is the spa at the Crescent Hotel but I really enjoy any spa. And just relaxing at home with my family.

Meghan, Hector (son in law), Katie, Tanya, Pete, Taylor and P.J.
photo: Holt Haynsworth

What are your favorite restaurants?
Oh, there are so many great restaurants in Dallas. Right now I am really in love with the restaurants in the Bishops Arts District. However, you will always have a great meal at Al Biernat’s, Mi Cocina and Salum. They are go-to staples.
Where are your favorite places to shop? 
Neiman Marcus, all the shops in Highland Park Village and this great new boutique – LUBLU in the Plaza at Preston Center. The designer, Kira Plastinina is Russian and she is brilliant. She is a 21 year-old college student at SMU!

Foster with Ruth Mutch at the 2013 Dallas International Film Festival

What's your favorite Dallas festival?
Well, that is super easy to answer. The Dallas International Film Festival of course. I loved being the President & CEO from 2009 – 2011 and producing the 2010 and 2011 film festivals. It is such a great thing for this city and I still attend and promote film as much as I can. I am thrilled that I have been fortunate enough to attend other great film festivals like Sundance, Toronto, L.A., Austin and SXSW. We do it just as well as the others do. Film is the visual art that brings everyone together.
What do you think makes Dallas such a great place to live, work and raise a family?
It’s a great, centrally located city. You can get to the ocean or mountains in a two hour, non-stop flight. Flying to the east or west coast is easy. We have access to great restaurants, shopping and our arts and entertainment are top notch. It is family friendly and safe. We have a great economy and it’s an easy city to get around in.
Tell me something about you that most people don't know.
I took a performance dance team to the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona for special appearances and have choreographed a Sonic commercial featuring Frankie Avalon!