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How to Dress Like Old Money

Social Media has been talking about Old Money style for a while now. But what is Old Money, and what are the essential parts of dressing like Old Money?

Old Money is a style that values traditions, sophistication, and classic lines. Unlike New Money, Old Money style does not include wearing bright, colorful prints and clothes or accessories with the name of the brand on them. Instead, people who dress like Old Money wear clothes of a classic style and neutral color. It can be a white turtleneck, a basic color t-shirt, a camel trench coat, etc. It is also important to remember that all the pieces of clothing, footwear, and accessories are of very high quality.

So, what are the tips you should follow to dress like old money?

Choose high-quality items instead of those sold in fast fashion stores

One of the most basic principles of Old Money style is to buy clothes that you will be able to wear for a long time. So, instead of buying clothes from fast fashion brands like H&M and Zara, choose more high-quality stores. That way, you will not spend extra on unnecessary clothes that you will only be able to wear for one season, and the clothes will last you much longer.

Choose basic colors

One of the other important things to remember if you want to dress like old money is to buy clothes of neutral colors that will go with everything: white, camel, black, navy, olive or gray. Of course, you can also wear other colors, but avoid ones that are very bright and cheap-looking. As for the patterns, use the classic ones like stripes or polka dots.

Choose footwear and accessories accordingly

Don’t forget that your shoes and accessories should also be of the same style and quality as your clothes. To do that, consider classic models for your footwear, jewelry, and other accessories like watches, hats, and scarves.

Take care of yourself

Of course, you can buy the right clothes and accessories, but they are not going to look right if you don’t take care of yourself. Make sure you have a clean manicure, well-styled hair, and healthy glowing skin. This is something you can take care of at home, and it does not necessarily mean that you will have to spend a lot of money on hairdressers and skin treatments.

Article by Mary Zakharova




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Fashion Trends of 2024

The new year has started, and it’s time to renew your wardrobe. Even though it’s only been a week since the new year, 2024 has given us a lot of interesting trends to choose from. Of course, they are not to be followed strictly, and definitely not all at once. See them as an opportunity to experiment and potentially change your style.

Bows

Bows have started appearing everywhere: in clothes, shoes, hair accessories, and even makeup. And this trend is not going anywhere in 2024! If you like these whimsical and cute additions to your outfit, this is definitely a trend to look at. But there is also an option for those who do not like bows. Some designers are offering rosettes instead, and they look as much, if not more, trendy.

Capris

This trend is probably the most controversial. Capri pants are back! It is not a trend for everybody, but if you still have a pair of capris in your closet, you might want to try them on again! It can be paired with another trend, kitten heels, which will be a playful addition to your capri outfit.

XL Bags

If you are always worried about limited space in your bag, this trend was made for you! Giant bags are coming into fashion this year! They appeared in multiple spring collections like Stella McCartney, Victoria Beckham, and Tory Burch. There is a great variety to choose from, so start looking for yours!

Color Green

As we know, there is always a color trend, and 2024 is marked green. This is a trend you can experiment with. Since all the shades of green will be trendy throughout 2024, you can look for the one that suits you the most. Plus, it can be any piece in your wardrobe!

Article by Mary Zakharova

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Interesting Christmas Recipes

There is no Christmas without a decadent dinner. What can be better than sitting around the table and enjoying good food and good company? 

Every year hosts try to impress their guests with the best Christmas dishes they can cook, and sometimes, it gets hard to think of something new. So here are some of the best recipes that will impress your family and friends during Christmas. 


Roasted Goose

If you are tired of having chicken or ham at the Christmas table, try roasting a goose! This will make a wow effect at the table, and you will be complimented on your Christmas dinner long after the holidays. And the best part is that you can glaze the goose, stuff it, or just roast it by itself - the possibilities are endless! It does take some time to cook though, so I suggest starting a little bit in advance, especially if it’s your first time cooking it. 

The link to the full recipe can be found here: 

https://weekendatthecottage.com/roast-goose/

Shepherd’s Pie 

This traditional English recipe is perfect for a cold winter night. All the ingredients are very filling and warming, and what’s more, it’s a perfect main dish as it combines proteins, fats, and carbs. And what’s even better is that the recipe is not that hard to follow! One thing to keep in mind, though, is that it does require a lot of ingredients, including spices, so make sure to prepare everything in advance. 

Here is the link to the full recipe: https://www.thewholesomedish.com/the-best-classic-shepherds-pie/

Beef Bourguignon

The French recipe has always been liked and cooked but gained additional popularity after the movie Julie & Julia came out. There, the famous cookbook writer Julia Child presented her beef bourguignon recipe that people still use in their kitchens.  

The instructions are not the easiest, but if you set your mind to it, it will definitely come out right. The cook time is 3 hours, and you can serve the dish the same day or cook one day in advance. To make the cooking process easier, pour yourself a glass of wine and relax. You got this! 

The full recipe can be found on the website: 

https://cafedelites.com/beef-bourguignon/

Article by Mary Zakharova 

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Best Ice-Skating Rinks In NYC

This winter in NYC promises to be cold, so take out your ice skates and prepare for a trip to the skating rink. If you are still deciding which rink to go to, here are some of the best, most popular rinks in New York City.

Rockefeller Center Rink

The rink is one of the best and most visited in NYC. Situated right next to the famous Christmas Tree, it attracts thousands of people every year. It is also the favorite place of Home Alone fans because that is where Kevin finally met his mother in the beloved sequel.

The tickets are available for purchase through the website. One tip: try coming a little bit in advance, as the rink is always crowded.

Bryant Park Rink

Bryant Park rink is for you if you are looking for a cheaper way to skate! It is the only one in NYC that has free admission. The only thing you would need to pay for is the ice skates in case you do not have your own. You can finish the day by getting some coffee and pastry at the Bryant Park holiday market and shopping for last-minute Christmas gifts.

Wollman Ice Rink in Central Park

One of the bigger rinks you can visit is the Wollman Ice Rink in Central Park. Not only will you get more space for the activity, but you can also see great views on The Plaza Hotel and the Gapstow Bridge.

Tickets are cheaper if you come on the weekdays, so take advantage of the opportunity!

Lafrak Center at Lakeside, Prospect Park

The best thing about Lefrak Center at Lakeside is that it has two rinks, one indoor and one outdoor, so if you get cold outside, you can always move to a warmer part. And compared to the Manhattan ones, this rink is pretty cheap!

Vale Rink, Williamsburg

The beautiful Vale Rink is on a rooftop, and the view is breathtaking! What can be better than skating with NYC skyscrapers as a backdrop? Another cool thing about the rink is that it is made out of synthetic ice, so no water or electricity is needed to keep it going.

Article by Mary Zakharova

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10 Things To Do In NYC During The Holidays

As December begins, New York City dresses up for the Christmas holidays. Iconic streets put on beautiful decorations, and many stores go above and beyond to ensure they have the best Christmas ornaments.

But there are a handful of things that you absolutely cannot miss. Here are the ten most exciting holiday destinations in the Big Apple.

The Rockefeller Christmas Tree

This is the one you should see out of all of the Christmas trees in NYC! The Rockefeller Center amazes people every Christmas season with its 79-foot-tall, brightly decorated tree. The lines to the attraction never stop! Make sure to take a picture near one of the most known Christmas trees in the world!

Holiday Markets

Holiday markets are a super fun way to spend your day! These little fairs have anything you could possibly think of - Christmas decorations, food, clothing, accessories - you name it. It’s a great way to buy last-minute gifts and have a cozy day in the city.

Hudson Yards

Every year, Hudson Yards does a fantastic job with Christmas Decorations. A lot of lights, Christmas trees, and statues are being placed throughout the neighborhood every year. It’s most beautiful in the evening when you can see the lights turned on, so you can plan an evening trip, walk through Hudson Yards and the High Line Park, and finish the walk with some coffee and pastries in the shopping mall.

Christmas House NYC at the Oculus

If you are looking for an all-age experience, check out the Christmas House at the Oculus. This adventure will lead you to different themed rooms with snow, karaoke, and Christmas movies. It will be equally exciting for kids and adults, so don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Christmas House this December.

Ice Skating

There is nothing better than ice skating in winter, and there is nothing better than ice skating in New York City. Every borough offers a lot of rinks that vary in size and price, so you can find one that best suits you. The most famous ones are the Rockefeller Center rink, the Bryant Park one, and the one in Central Park. Those three always have lines, so make sure to get there early.

5th Ave

There is only one place with so many store window decorations, and it is, without a doubt, 5th Ave. The street is full of brand stores that create unique Christmas decorations every year. Let yourself get lost in this Christmas fairytale!

A Christmas Carol at the Merchant’s House

A Christmas Carol at the Merchant’s House is a great event for all Dickens lovers. This performance is set in a Merchant’s Museum that was formerly the home of a wealthy 19th-century family, so you will see the original settings and the Christmas decorations of the past. The show will be held until December 24, 2023.

Sant Ambroeus

If you are looking for a cozy place to have a cup of hot chocolate on a cold winter day, this cafe is for you! It is famous for its hot chocolate, made without milk or water - just melted cocoa! It is a must-go after a long walk in the cold weather.

Rolf’s German Restaurant

For all the food lovers - if you are looking for a good holiday restaurant, Rolf’s should be the first on your list! It is a German restaurant that goes full-on with Christmas lights and decorations. It will undoubtedly boost your holiday mood the second you step in. If you are not a German food lover, don’t worry! Even though most of the dishes are German, there are a couple of American-style options.

The Plaza Hotel

At some point, we all wanted to become Kevin McCallister and spend a couple of nights in one of the most iconic New York City hotels. And guess what? You can do it! And what’s even better news - you do not have to book a room! Instead, make a reservation to grab a drink or go to an afternoon tea event. Of course, you will be able to walk around the hotel’s lobby to see the Home Alone 2 movie set and the beautiful Christmas decorations.

Article by Mary Zakharova

Photos by Joseph Fraia - @jrfstudio - jrfstudio.com

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Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

Christmas is right around the corner, and Christmas decorations are slowly invading New York City. But there is one neighborhood with more decorations per square foot than any other place, which is Dyker Heights.

Their Christmas decorations are known throughout the city to be the brightest, the biggest, and the most densely situated.

In Dyker Heights, you can find any decoration you could possibly think of: live-sized Santas, Reindeer, sleighs, snowmen, Christmas trees, and millions of lights. Every house is trying to show off its best decorations! And imagine what the electricity bills for each one of the houses look like! According to the Bowery Boys podcast, some families spend $5.000 - $8.000 per month to illuminate their homes and turn them into a Christmas fairytale.

Of course, such effort can not go unnoticed. Dyker Heights attracts tourists and NYC residents every year. The neighborhood never stays quiet during the holiday season.

To be sure that all the decorations are up and see the best of Dyker Heights, plan your visit for the middle to the end of December. That way, all the houses will have the ornaments up. The decorations usually stay until the end of the first week of January, so if you cannot see Dyker Heights before Christmas, you can do it after.

One piece of advice - stay respectful of the neighborhood and the privacy of its residents. It’s a very family-oriented neighborhood, so don’t come close to the houses, yell, or litter. Just enjoy the lights, and let others enjoy them with you!


Article by Mary Zakharova


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Booker Prize 2023

The Booker Prize is a literary award for the best English novel published in the United Kingdom or Ireland. The prize of 50,000 Euros is given to the winner, and each short-listed author gets a prize of 2,500 Euros.

This year, the six nominees were:

1. The Bee Sting by Paul Murray

The Bee Sting is a story of a family where something at some point went wrong. The father, Dickie, is spending his days in the forest, building a bunker in case of apocalypse, after his car business goes down. His wife, Imelda, is selling her jewelry to support the family after her husband lost his job. Cass, Dickie’s teenage daughter, has a drinking problem, and his 12-year-old son PJ is planning to run away from home. Can there still be a happy ending? The book will explore the possibility.

2. Western Lane by Chetna Maroo

This is the story of a little girl trying to find herself and her path in life. Gopi has been playing squash for as long as she can remember herself. After her mother dies, Gopi’s father puts the girl into a very intense training program, and squash becomes all she has. Gopi is slowly growing apart from her sisters, not seeing anything in her life except sports. But who is Gopi? And who does she want to be?

3. Prophet Song by Paul Lynch

Eilish Stack, a mother of four, opens her front door to see two police officers who came to speak to her husband. The Irish government is turning towards tyranny, and the society is slowly getting ruined. With her world collapsing in front of her eyes, Eilish finds herself stuck in what looks like an unsolvable situation, but she will do anything to keep her family together.

4. This Other Eden by Paul Harding

Historical events inspired Harding’s novel and tell the Honey family's story. In 1792, Benjamin Honey, formerly enslaved, came to Apple Island with his wife to build a family there. Over a hundred years later, his descendants are hit by “civilization.” The officials want to “cleanse” the island and decide to save only a light-skinned boy, while others will have to accept the authorities’ rules or leave.

5. If I Survive You by Jonathan Escoffery

In 1979, due to political violence, Topper and Sanya decided to move to Miami. But what they thought would be a good decision turns out to be much harder than they expected. The American society does not welcome them as warmly as they thought. Their youngest son, Trelawny, is growing up in a society that doesn’t trust him and looks at him with suspicion, and their older son, Delano, is doing everything to secure a better future for his own children. The family has to go through many obstacles on their way to a happier life. Will the family be able to stay strong together, or will all the hardships be the last drop that will break it?

6. Study For Obedience by Sarah Bernstein

This novel is about a woman who moves to a different country to be her brother’s housekeeper after his wife left him. Soon after her arrival, a series of strange accidents occurs: a potato blight, a dog’s phantom pregnancy, a collective hysteria… The woman soon realizes that her new neighbors are looking at her suspiciously, not trusting a new member of their community, blaming her for their troubles. She is trying to hide herself by taking care of the house and her brother, who soon becomes ill.

This year's winner was Paul Lynch, the author of a dystopian novel, Prophet Song. Lynch is the fifth writer to win the Booker Prize.

Article By Mary Zakharova

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Holiday Markets in NYC

One of the best things you can do in late November - early December is to go to a Holiday Market. That is a concentration of Christmas mood, happiness, and laughter. You can always buy remaining gifts or look for little souvenirs for yourself there, and after you are done, don’t forget to grab a cup of hot chocolate with a warm, delicious pastry.

Thankfully, there are a lot of Holiday Markets in New York City, and here are some of the most famous ones:

Bryant Park Market

Bryant Park Market is one of the best Holiday Markets in New York City. Dozens of small kiosks with various souvenirs will offer you their best products. This market will be great if you are looking for small, cute gifts for your friends and relatives. And a huge bonus is that there is a skating rink right next to the market, so you can start your day with skating and finish it off with shopping. And, of course, don’t forget to grab a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate in one of the kiosks.

Astoria Holiday Market

If you like vintage or homemade goods, this market is for you. It is open two Sundays before Christmas, so you will have just enough time to buy the last gifts for the year. You can also visit the Market’s cafe with a whole bunch of homemade foods, like soups, pastries, and holiday drinks.

Grand Holiday Bazaar

This Holiday Market is one of the oldest in New York City. It is open every Sunday starting from November 27th and up until December 23. The Bazaar offers many products: jewelry, art, cosmetics, and even furniture, so you will definitely find the right gifts! And if you get hungry, do not worry! The market has a whole bunch of different food stations to choose from.

Union Square Holiday Market

Union Square Market is a must-visit this winter! More than 160 vendors will get together at this European-style market to offer their products. Here, you will be able to boost your holiday mood for sure! Christmas decorations, lights, and many people shopping for gifts will make you feel the coming of Christmas. If you visit the market, check out the small family-owned businesses participating. They have many exciting products to offer, including tablecloths, perfumes, and jewelry.

Article by Mary Zakharova

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Manet/Degas Exhibition at The Met

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is presenting a new exhibition, Manet/Degas. It explores the relationship and works of two of the most influential artists of modern art, Edouard Manet and Edgar Degas.

Manet and Degas were friends, rivals, and inspirations of one another. They first met in the Louvre in front of the painting of Infanta Margarita Teresa. Degas was etching a motif from the painting when Manet came and commented that drawing outside the studio without any preparation beforehand was bold and unseen. That was the start of their long-lasting relationship.

The two artists did not keep correspondence but wrote about one another to their friends and family. Degas even drew multiple portraits of Manet, showing admiration for his colleague. Both artists admired each other’s work but, at the same time, stayed critical. One of the most interesting and still unexplained situations happened when Degas presented Manet and his wife with a painting that pictured Manet sitting on a sofa in a very relaxed position, listening to his wife playing the piano. The next time Degas came to Manet’s apartment, he saw that the part of the painting that depicted Madame Manet’s face was torn off. There are no definite explanations, but one is that Manet did not like how his wife’s face was presented. Instead, he ripped it off of the painting and drew his portrait of her.

Manet and Degas often used the same motifs in their works. Once, they even used the same model for their painting. It was an actress, Ellen Andree. Degas portrayed her in his painting “In a Cafe,” where she sits with a man. The couple looks very distant, as they are separated by an invisible wall. The woman looks down melancholically, thinking about something we will never guess.

Manet’s painting “Plum Brandy” was drawn a year later. Here, the woman is dressed nicer than in Degas’s work and looks a little bit more happy. Still, similarly to Degas, there is melancholy in her eyes. This painting was very controversial. The woman of good status and well brought up was not supposed to be sitting in a cafe on her own, especially considering that she had a cigarette in her hand and a plum brandy in front of her. We can see, though, that she did not touch her drink or her cigarette, making us question the status of this woman and the circumstances that made her come to the cafe alone.

Edouard Manet passed away in 1883, leaving Degas alone for 34 more years until he passed in 1917. Degas was shaken by Manet’s death and started actively collecting his paintings. Degas was able to get about 80 works by Manet, preserving some of his most valuable pieces.

This exhibition is an amazing opportunity to dive into the world of 19th-century France and get acquainted with two of the most important artists of the time. If you decide to go, make sure to plan some extra time. You will have to enter the online queue before being allowed to enter the exhibition, and that might take some time.

Open through January 7, 2024.

Article by Mary Zakharova

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Best Indoor Activities In NYC

It’s almost December, and the weather is getting colder and colder each day. With that, staying outside becomes a little less enjoyable. But there are ways to have fun even in the coldest weather! Here are some great indoor activities you will definitely enjoy!

See an exhibition

Museums always have exhibitions you can visit. And in New York City, you have a chance to choose any exhibition you’d like: art, fashion, sculpture - you name it. So make sure to visit an exhibition on one of these cold days, and finish your trip with a nice cup of coffee in a warm coffee shop.

Shop at Chelsea Market

Chelsea Market is probably one of the most famous spots for food lovers in NYC. Dozens of vendors will offer you the best of their foods. Pick a day and spend it at Chelsea Market, trying all the foods you can find. You can even have a contest and elect the best one out there!

Explore the New York Public Library

If you haven’t been to the New York Public Library recently, take a trip there! Find a book you are particularly excited about and read a couple of pages. And don’t forget to just walk around the rooms to see the beauty of a century-old building.

Plan a SPA day

What can be better than a hot sauna on a cold day? Take a day-long spa trip and experience all the pleasures of it! Go to a sauna or a steam room, jump into a pool, and get a nice relaxing massage afterward. You will definitely feel more relaxed and ready for new achievements!

Go to a Broadway Show

If you are trying to make plans for a cold, rainy weekend, consider going to a Broadway show. There are so many options for everyone! You can always buy tickets to classics like The Lion King or check out newer shows. Choose the mood you are going for, and there will definitely be a Broadway Show for it!

Article by Mary Zakharova

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Best Thanksgiving Gift Ideas

Halloween has come and gone, and it’s time to start preparing for Thanksgiving! If you are attending a Thanksgiving celebration this year and are expected to bring a gift, here are some of the best ideas your hosts will appreciate!


Gift Basket

Gift baskets are a great idea! The contents of it might vary from family to family. For example, you can bring a basket of seasonal fruits and vegetables or a basket of pastries with banana bread, pumpkin pound cake, and some muffins. And coffee lovers will appreciate a gift basket with different samples of coffee. Make sure you find out what your hosts like, and fill the gift basket accordingly. 


Wine

Wine is one of the most traditional gift ideas. Everybody will enjoy a good bottle, so if you are still trying to decide what to give your hosts this Thanksgiving, find a high-quality bottle of wine at your local liquor shop. That is always a great gift idea unless, of course, your hosts don’t drink alcohol. 


Home Decor

If your hosts love cozy home accessories, this gift idea is for you! There is so much you can do! Scented candles that smell like apples and cinnamon or a Christmas tree (because Christmas is coming!), cute kitchen towels, a fluffy blanket for a sofa, a set of dishes or mugs - the list goes on! Your hosts will definitely appreciate cute gifts like that! 


Board Games

If you are celebrating this Thanksgiving with friends, bring a fun board game you can play after dinner. There are a bunch you can choose from, some of them specifically designed for Thanksgiving. Just make sure that multiple people can play the game so every guest can take part and nobody feels left out. 


Kitchen-Themed Gifts/ Cookbooks

Do your hosts love cooking and having people over? Is that why they invited all of you for a Thanksgiving party this year? Then why not get them a gift that will encourage their hobbies? A cookbook with interesting recipes will be a great option! You can also get them a set of spiced olive oils. That is an excellent gift for those who like experimenting with flavors! Kitchen supplies like a cheese board or a nice set of utensils will also work. Just make sure they don’t have it yet. After all, they are professionals and might already have some of the things they need. 


Article by Mary Zakharova

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Veterans Day Parade - New York 2023

Every year on November 11th, Americans celebrate Veterans Day. The holiday was created to commemorate the veterans who died during World War I. On November 11, 1919, President Woodrow Wilson gave a speech expressing what he thought the day meant for the US and all its citizens.

He celebrated those dying at war, saying that they fought for a better society, the opportunity to build a better world, and the possibilities of political freedom and economic growth.

The holiday has not become official until later, though. In 1926, Congress asked President Calvin Coolidge to celebrate Veterans Day, and 1938, it became a national holiday.

The holiday did not have any big ceremonies or traditions connected to it until the 1940s. In 1945, a World War II veteran, Raymond Weeks, had an idea to celebrate not only those who died in World War I but all the veterans. He presented the idea to General Dwight Eisenhower, who supported it, and in 1947 Weeks led the first parade dedicated to Veterans Day. Weeks led the parade until his death in 1985.

The date of the holiday has been changed twice throughout the years. In 1971 it was moved from November 11th to every fourth Monday of October. It was moved back to November 11th in 1978, and that date has remained since.

Veterans Day is celebrated both locally and nationally. There are parades and memorial services, as well as wreath-laying ceremonies. US citizens get a day off on November 11th or the Monday after it if it falls on the weekend. Some families celebrate the holiday at home with family gatherings, remembering those who died during the war.

Veterans Day is not the biggest US holiday, but a very important one. Every year, it reminds us that peace was achieved in a very hard way, with war taking the lives of thousands of people, and that peaceful times should remain.

Article by Mary Zakharova

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Harry Potter Exhibition in New York - The Wizarding World takes over the Big Apple

As a huge Harry Potter fan, I was extremely excited when I found out that there was going to be a Harry Potter exhibition in NYC. It took me a while to get there, but last weekend I was finally able to visit.

The exhibition shows some of the most iconic characters and settings from the Harry Potter universe including Fantastic Beasts and Harry Potter and The Cursed Child. Everything is very well-designed, and the technology used is great, so you get a full dive into the wizard world.

What I enjoyed the most, is that the experience is personalized. You can choose a Hogwarts house and a wand for yourself, which was definitely one of the coolest parts because hey, who doesn’t want to play in a Harry Potter movie?

You can also put yourself into Harry’s shoes and get into that little room under the stairs Harry lived in or play Quidditch and see how good you are.

For those who really enjoyed the movies and want to get a glimpse of the behind the scenes, the exhibition has some of the original costumes and items that were used in the movies.

Oh and of course make sure you see the Hungarian Horntail, a dragon Harry had to face during his first task in the Triwizard Tournament.

Overall, the exhibition turned out to be an amazing experience! It was so much fun, and the great graphics and designs filled my heart with joy.

The organizers offer an audio guide, so in case you forgot some of the scenes from Harry Potter, you don’t have to rewatch all the movies or reread the books. And if you wanta memory from the exhibition, there are plenty of Harry Potter-themed souvenirs like t-shirts, mugs, and caps.

And if you are wondering if the exhibition is good for kids, let me tell you this: it is good for everyone! Kids will be excited to see all the magical creatures and the interactive parts, and parents can get nostalgic looking at the favorite characters they grew up with.

Article by Mary Zakharova



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Halloween Parade In The Village

Every year on October 31st the whole city of New York gets together to take part in the Halloween Parade that takes off from Greenwich Village. This is one of the most important and exciting events during the spooky season.

More than fifty thousand people participate in the parade annually. Everybody is allowed to walk, as long as they have a costume. In case you don’t want to walk the parade, or just didn’t have a chance to find a costume, but still want to be a part of the event, you can come to watch, and stand along the parade’s route.

The Halloween Parade is a great event to visit with both your friends and family, especially if you haven’t made any plans for the holiday yet. And watching the parade is as fun as walking it! Thousands of people laugh, sing, and show their costumes. And this year might turn out to be even better than any of the previous ones! The event celebrates its 50th anniversary, so we can probably expect a lot of fun surprises!

If you are planning to watch the parade rather than walking in it, you might want to come a little bit in advance. The sides of the streets get crowded pretty quickly, and if you come late, you might not be able to get a front row spot.

Each year, there is a specific theme for the parade, and in 2023 it is Upside Down Inside Out. The theme was inspired by the previous couple of years when Covid changed the lives of so many and turned them inside out. The good thing is that you can interpret the theme any way you want, and your costume can be absolutely anything!

The parade starts at 7 pm and lasts until 11 pm. It will run from Sixth Ave, King St to 15th St in Manhattan.

Article by Mary Zakharova

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Best Holiday Bars For Halloween

The Halloween weekend is coming, and it is a great time to go to a bar with your friends. And to make your experience more fun, try one of the Halloween bars in New York City.

Fraunces Tavern

Fraunces Tavern is one of the oldest bars in NYC. It will be a great choice for Halloween as the design of the bar brings you right into the spooky Halloween atmosphere. Old furniture, creaky floors, dimmed lights - all of this will make you shiver. What’s more, Fraunces Tavern is considered one of the most haunted buildings in New York. And to get deeper into the Halloween atmosphere, try the bar’s Halloween cocktails, The Crane Boys’ Mysteries, and the Pumpkin Pie. 

Flying Fox Tavern

This bar is one of the best places to visit on Halloween. The walls have scary movie posters on them, and the whole room makes you feel like you are in Dracula’s castle. You do need to make a reservation to get in, so if this is one of the places you are considering, make sure to sign up in advance. 

Madame X

Madam X calls itself the sexiest bar in New York, and it’s not hard to believe that! The bar is lit with red lights, and velvet couches and armchairs just scream of desire. Make sure you get dressed for the occasion. Neat casual or dressy casual is the way to go. And don’t forget to try their signature cocktails Madame X and Butterfly Kisses. 

The Auction House 

The design of this bar is inspired by a Victorian house, so you will get brick walls, a fireplace, and beautiful velvet couches. This will be a perfect atmosphere for a Halloween get-together with friends! Get yourself a nice drink, and dive into the atmosphere of the 19th century with The Auction House. 


Article by Mary Zakharova

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Floral Sculptures Inspired By Global Destinations At Hudson Yard

Today I went to Hudson Yards to see the floral sculptures inspired by different countries: Canada, India, Puerto Rico, Japan, France, Ghana, and others. The exhibit is called VOYAGE and is presented on the first floor of Hudson Yards shopping mall. 


Local New York City florists took part in the exhibition. Each of them had to decorate 10-foot mannequins with fresh flowers. 


I loved the idea. Every florist used a specific color to represent the destination they chose. For example, for Canada, Whistler, the florist used white flowers that were coming down the dress train, to show the snowy mountains of Whistler, one of the most famous skiing destinations in the world. 

Another sculpture representing Spain was done in completely different colors. The mannequin was covered in red and golden yellow flowers and represented the tradition of bullfighting with its heat and passion. 


Finally, the florist that represented India showed a traditional Saree, a very colorful and uniquely draped gown that dates back thousands of years. Made with different colored roses, it is a bright and elegant composition that does a great job representing the traditional fashion of India. 


One thing that disappointed me about the exhibition was that the sculptures were spread throughout the first floor, and even though it makes sense knowing that the exhibit is presented in a shopping mall, it was still a little distracting with a lot of people all around and the sculptures positioned in all the different places. I found out I missed a couple of them even though I thought I saw everything walking around the first floor. 


Nevertheless, the exhibition is very interesting and does a great job portraying different countries in their own unique ways. And what makes it even more exciting is the interactive part. Everyone can get a paper and vote for their favorite sculpture, and if you find yourself particularly charmed by the flowers, you can visit a class taught by a local florist. 


Article and photos by Mary Zakharova



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Art for the Millions: American Culture and Politics in the 1930s

The Metropolitan Museum of Art has recently opened a new exhibition “Art for the Millions: American Culture and Politics in the 1930s”. It explores the culture of the 1930s, an unsettling time of the Great Depression when people all over the United States were trying to understand their own country's identity. This was a time of social activism and political changes.

The art presents paintings, sculptures, and even designer clothes that represent artists’ statements, and their views on the situation in the country.

There is definitely a lot to see at the exhibition, but there were a couple of things that interested me the most, and that I highlighted as the most curious.

First, the number of prints covering the labor movement and supporting workers was extraordinary. With people losing their jobs and struggling with the ones they had, the activists and artists tried to support them with their art. The prints covered all the different kinds of professions: rock drillers, miners, builders, and factory workers. Some of the pieces were done by artists involved in the Federal Art Project, a New Deal program that funded visual arts.

Another curious theme of the posters was communism. With political instability and the growing labor movement, the idea of communism as a better political ideology started rising. People supported workers, were against hunger and war, and saw communism as a way out. On such posters, workers are holding red Soviet Union flags supporting the country’s political views.

One other piece that you should definitely pay attention to if you decide to visit the exhibition is Georgia O'Keeffe's Cow Skull: Red, White, and Blue. The skull with its uneven surface and bleached color, but still being strong, represents the American spirit, its strength and beauty, and the background is made in colors of the American flag.

This exhibition is a great opportunity to learn more about the American culture of the 1930s. It shows a collection of all the different kinds of artists, their beliefs and desires, and gives a glimpse into the life of regular people struggling to find their identity along with the identity of the country during the hard and unstable times.



Article by Mary Zakharova











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Art of Native America at The Met of New York

If you are interested in the history of Native Americans you should absolutely go see the Art of Native America exhibition. It brings you back to the 19th, early 20th century, and shows you the culture, fashion, and everyday items of Indigenous people. 

The exhibition displays works of more than fifty Native American groups, letting us see the similarities and differences between them, and make connections. 

What I was most fascinated by was the clothing. Every little detail had meaning, and each ornament was sewn in on purpose. One of such clothes is a man’s coat, which was made with deerskin. The coat has white and indigo outlines - these colors are classic for the Lenape people. The ornaments of the coat signify physical and spiritual health and well-being. 

Another piece of clothing, the parka, which comes from Alaska, honors all the animals that died for the creation of this clothing: dried seal intestines help create the parchment-like texture of the parka, and the birds’ beaks and feathers were used as a decoration. 

Clothes could also show the status of the family. For example, one of the women’s dresses had a lot of beading, as well as highly-priced elk teeth and shells. 

This made me think about what I wear myself, and how it correlates to who I am. Do I choose my clothing based on comfort, or am I trying to show my personality through it? It is very interesting to think how fashion varies in different times and cultures, and what it is based on. 

The other thing that I enjoyed seeing was everyday items like combs, baskets, and bowls. This helped me imagine what the everyday life of Native Americans looked like, what their activities were, and what they cared about. And in the same way as with clothing, each element had its meaning. The carvings on combs, and the ornaments on baskets - all of those represented the culture of the Indigenous people. 

There was definitely a lot to see and learn about, and it was a great first step for me to get to know a new culture that I had never encountered before. Art of Native America helps you dive into history in a very friendly way that makes you want to discover and see more. 


Article and photos by Mary Zakharova

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Fall-ing in love… All over again!

There is nothing better than Fall activities: cozy, mysterious, and fun - they make us wait for Fall every year. As we’ve reached the beginning of October, here is the list of the best things to do during Autumn!

Go apple picking

Apple picking is probably the most famous Fall activity. There is nothing better than picking fresh apples right from the trees! It’s a great activity for family and friends! If you picked too many apples, you can always share them with your loved ones or have another fun day together making jam and apple pies. And if you are not an apple lover, you can pick up some pumpkins to carve!

Carve the pumpkins


After picking them up, pumpkins have to be carved! That is a great opportunity to show your creativity! Carvings can be spooky, funny, or cute. It would be fun to do it with your friends as well. Carve the pumpkins and give them to each other as gifts, or have a small “pumpkin exhibition”! And, of course, pumpkins will be a great Halloween decoration for your home! 


Go to a haunted house in NYC 

This Fall, a lot of haunted houses return to NYC, so if you want an intense Halloween experience, this activity is for you! New York City offers a bunch of locations, such as hotels and mansions, so that you can choose the one best to your liking. Make sure to bring some friends to make the experience more fun! Some of the haunted houses don’t let kids under 14 y.o. without supervision, so make sure you know the rules before buying tickets. 

Go to the Halloween parade 

No Fall can go without a Halloween parade, and if you are tired of looking at it standing on the side of the road, consider participating in it! All you need is a costume and a good mood! And if you are not a fan of big groups of people and would prefer something quieter, go on a tour through all five boroughs to find the best Halloween-decorated house. 


Go to a corn maze

Corn mazes are super fun, and you should absolutely include one to your Fall to-do list! It is a great activity for families with small kids, but it doesn’t get less fun for adults either! Make sure the weather is good, and spend your day in a corn maze! If you get out quickly, you can combine your trip with apple or pumpkin picking. A bunch of farms in New Jersey offer this activity, so there are plenty of options to choose from. 

Article by Mary Zakharova

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Brooklyn Book Festival

Brooklyn Book Festival is a free-of-charge annual event for all book lovers. Thousands of people attended the festival to meet writers from all across the globe, shop for books, and discuss literature.

The festival had multiple types of events for everybody: virtual meetings, in-person conferences, and, of course, book markets. Writers of all genres, from prose to poetry, from cookbooks to graphic novels attended the festival to share their experiences.

What impressed me were the topics covered in the presentations. A big chunk of them focuses on current issues like climate change, the meaning of AI, LGBTQ, and politics. Some discussed poetry, comic books, or works of a particular author.

I had a chance to visit the lecture focused on climate change and ecology fiction “True Eco-Terror: Writing Frightful Economic And Ecological Dystopias And Disasters”. Three authors, Damir Salkovic, Theo Gangi, and Jeffrey Krizman shared their experience in book writing and offered some insights on the possible future of our world. It was very interesting to hear the experiences of each one of the authors and get a better perspective on the climate change issue.

Even though parts of the lecture were pretty depressing, making me think that there is no way for our world to prosper, somehow the authors made me come out of the lecture with hope for a better future. And part of the reason for that was the audience. I could tell attendees were interested in the topic. Their questions at the end of the lecture were thoughtful and deep, and I thought that, for as long as there are people who care, the world has hope.

And even though I was very excited about the lecture, there was one thing I was waiting for even more: on Sunday, October 1, there was a festival day, the culmination of the whole 9-day event. During the day, authors signed books and host lectures. But most importantly, there was a book market, which is supposedly the largest book market in the Northeast.

The festival is a gem for all book lovers. Anyone can visit it completely free of charge (except for buying new books, of course), and it is a great way to find new friends in the book community!

Article by Mary Zakharova

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Dance Parade New York

 

On Saturday, May 21, New York City will celebrate the diversity of dance at the Dance Parade. More than 100 different dancing styles performed by more than 1000 professionals will be presented: Hip Hop, Break Dance, Cheerleading, Salsa, and Contemporary Ballet - all of these will be showcased during the parade!

The Dance Parade will start at 11:45 at 20th and Broadway and go to Tompkins Square Park. Each group of dancers will perform with their choreography for 40 seconds before two Grandstands in Astor Plaza. There will also be a couple of fun visuals parading, including a pirate ship and a rainbow unicorn. 

At the parade's finale, dancers will show curated performances on five stages. The public will also participate in dancing masterclasses and dance parties. The best part is that it’s all free! 

This year will feature the 16th edition of the Dance Parade. The first one was held in 2006 in response to the New York State Supreme Court ruling that upheld the 1926 NYC Cabaret Law. The law denied social dance as an expressive activity under the first amendment. 

Since then, the parade has been held every year. This event is a chance for the dancers to introduce their work to broader audiences, show their cultural heritage, and collaborate with other dancers. For the audience, the Dance Parade is a chance to learn more about dancing culture, fall in love with it, and maybe even start dancing themselves! 

What can be better than a sunny late spring Saturday with great music, bright costumes, and breathtaking dancing? Spend the day with lots of fun at the Dance Parade! Bring your best friends, comfortable clothing, and, of course, a great mood for the best experience of this spring! 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

New Wedding Trends

 

With all the delays and cancellations of weddings during COVID-19, 2022 will be the year of the weddings. Couples who weren’t able to bring their families together and perform an in-person ceremony will finally be able to make their dream come true. According to The Wedding Report, around 2.5 million weddings will occur in the US in 2022. It is going to be the biggest wedding year since 1984.

After all the difficulties and inconveniences, couples are trying to bring back the magic for such a special occasion. And what could be more memorable than the wedding dress? So let’s look at the latest wedding dress fashion to see what we can expect from the brides and give some ideas to the brides-to-be.

The new collection at New York Bridal Fashion Week this year, held from April 4 to 8, was very empowering. The designers made the statement, “You can finally get married this year!” 

Instead of the classic white dress, designers offered brides colorful wedding gowns: pink, yellow, pick any color you like! So this year, you can fully show your personality with the wedding dress! This trend has already gone viral: a week ago, the bride appeared in a bright yellow voluminous dress at one of the New York City weddings.

That bride has definitely checked out the new trends! Voluminous dresses are the second trend of this year. In such a dress, any bride would feel like a princess. With this gown, you can get creative: voluminous skirts, ruffled hemlines, and tulle will make you look trendy and gorgeous!

For business ladies who prefer pants over dresses, there will be options for them too. Combined with a white jacket, they create an extraordinarily stylish and, at the same time, comfortable look. With so many designers presenting bridal pants this year, even the pickiest bride will find a model for herself!

Feathers are also staying with us for the wedding season, so here’s some good news for those who like this trend! If you want to try something new for a wedding dress, this is the way to go! This dress can be either the main dress or a second bride’s look. And that’s what’s perfect about it!

The lace embroidery dress will be a perfect option for the more romantic brides! Long-sleeved tulle bodices with hand-embroidered floral designs are the new classics!

Last but not least are puff sleeves. This trend came to us from 1980s weddings, but it took a different form this time. In 2022 brides choose removable puff sleeves, which, without any additional discomfort, bring volume to the dress.

The 2022 wedding collections gave us a lot of new perspectives on what a bride should look like. The next move is yours! What trend will you choose? 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Earth Day 2022

 

On Friday, April 22, articles about the Earth and the environment were everywhere in the Media. And this is not a coincidence. Starting from 1970, activists have been celebrating Earth Day annually on April 22. This year’s theme for Earth Day was “Invest in Our Planet.”

According to Google Trends, searches for “Earth Day” and “Earth Day events” have increased twice since last week. People were registering for events, like cleanups in the parks and on the beaches and tree planting. Those who didn’t have a chance to participate in person could check out conferences available on the Earth Day website about any topic they are interested in: Turning the Tide on Plastic Pollution, Fashion, and Sustainability, Youth Activism, etc. 

Some of the articles and events are oriented toward kids. Even with all the recycling marks on our cans and plastic containers, we are not sure which bin to put our trash in, what each mark means, and where the plastic we throw in recycling goes. Are we really helping the planet, or are we only made to believe we make a difference? To make sure there is no such problem with future generations, there are programs now that let children learn what sustainable living is and what they can do to actually help the planet. For example, The New York Times posted a story with a guide for kids about climate change and what can be done about it (Bad Future, Better Future). 



Teachers in schools are also encouraged to teach kids about the environment by, for example, going outside to enjoy nature, doing environmental projects, like composting or working in the garden, or giving them homework connected to the environment. 

There are also special programs for kids, including Kids & Nature. There, kids of different ages learn about wildlife gardening at home and in school, trees, and their role in wildlife. They also get access to learning outside in the fresh air. 

Environmental topics are becoming more and more essential each year, and Earth Day is not only about a small group of activists promoting an eco-lifestyle anymore. Now it’s about millions of people all over the world participating in environmental events, teaching their kids about a sustainable lifestyle, and creating programs that will help us become more eco-friendly in the near future. 

I am trying to be eco-friendly myself, but there is still a very long and sometimes hard way to go. But the more environment-oriented projects there are, the more I believe that I will achieve an eco-friendly lifestyle. The most important thing is to start. 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Welcoming Easter

 

Easter is, without a doubt, the most important Christian holiday. It’s all about bringing families together, having fun, and celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

Not everyone celebrates Easter the same way, with Catholics and Orthodox having different traditions. Both are very exciting and fun, and I always waited for the day when we could finally start getting ready for Easter.  

By the way, Easter in Catholic countries is celebrated a week before the Orthodox Christian one. This year, Catholic Easter is celebrated on April 17, and Orthodox on April 24. 

But let’s get to the traditions. Catholic traditions are very well-known. I, being Orthodox and asking Americans about their Catholic traditions, realized that I knew a lot about them already. I’ve seen them in movies and cartoons, and sometimes my family even followed some of the Catholic traditions when we celebrated our Orthodox Easter. 

For example, we would get small baskets for our eggs, and bunnies would become a huge part of the Easter decorations, even though originally Orthodox Easter didn’t have that. 

But, unlike Catholics, the Orthodox don’t have egg hunts. Instead, we have egg fights, which are always hilarious! During a family dinner, we would all get a hard-boiled egg and bump it into the egg of the person next to us. The egg that gets crushed loses, and the stronger one gets to the next round and bumps into another winner. The person who beats all eggs wins. 


The Orthodox also make special Easter cakes called Kulich. It’s a tall round cake with raisins inside and glazes and sprinkles on top. Some people believe that it represents a church because of its shape. Today, people mostly buy Kulich. Because of the specific ingredients and texture of the dough, it takes around 3-4 hours to make it, which is now a luxury not many people have. 

What the Orthodox don’t have is chocolate eggs. If Catholics give chocolate eggs as gifts, especially for kids, Orthodox give real hard-boiled and colored eggs to everybody. 

Coloring eggs is another fun tradition that both Catholics and Orthodox follow. There are now hundreds of ways to color the eggs! Before, even in my childhood, my grandmother would color eggs using onion peel to give a white egg a light yellow color. Now there are special pills with the coloring inside or stickers with Easter symbols that we use to get our eggs ready for Easter. 

This Sunday, don’t forget to spend some time with your loved ones and celebrate a great holiday with your family. 

Happy Easter!  

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Cherry Blossom Season is Back

 

For years, spring in NYC has been associated with the cherry blooming season, and it’s finally here! All over the city, pink blossoms are attracting tourists and residents. According to the Parks & Recreation Department, you can find 6,700 cherry trees in the city parks, and more than 34,000 cherry trees on the streets, so you definitely can’t miss cherry blossom! 

One of the go-to destinations to enjoy the cherry blossom festival is the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. There, you can walk through a fairytale-looking trail. On that side of the garden, the first trees were planted in 1921, and since then thousands of people have been able to admire the pink beauty. Two of the originally planted trees are still there, at the north end of the walk. 

And at the end of the season, you can visit the Botanic Garden to see the “pink snow” of falling petals. 
Unfortunately, because of this spring’s cold weather, not all of the cherry trees are blooming, but, those that are, look like magical pink clouds in April's gray sky.  


The great place to go to if you are in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden. It’s perfect if you want to fully feel the atmosphere of Japanese cities, whose cherry blossom seasons are so famous. There, the pond is surrounded by blooming cherry trees and flowers. Narrow gravel paths will walk you around the pond with a Japanese monument and a small duck house. 

But cherry blossoms are not the only thing to see in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden! Dozens of other trees and flowers are blooming now, creating a wonderful magic atmosphere, and it is definitely worth seeing! 

If it’s your first time in the Botanic Garden, you can get a Seasonal Highlights Tour that is held Tuesday through Sunday from 1 pm to 2 pm. Such tours are held from April until June, so make sure not to miss the opportunity! 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Where Does April Fools’ Day Come From?

 

March is slowly coming to an end, and we are all awaiting April. On its first day, we will be celebrating probably the most fun holiday of all - April Fools’ Day. 

We are all used to its pranks, jokes, and a good laugh at those who we were able to fool. But where is this all coming from, and how did April Fools’ Day get to be celebrated all around the world?

The most popular theory about April Fools’ Day’s origin comes from France, where in 1582 the Julian calendar was replaced by the Gregorian calendar. Since then, New Year’s Day has been moved to January 1st instead of April 1st. However, some citizens, who couldn’t get used to the new system, or lived far enough to get the news slowly, kept celebrating the New Year in spring. 

Such people started being joked about and pranked: somebody would put a paper fish on their backs, which symbolized a young fish that was easy to catch, and a gullible person.

Some historians also link April Fools’ Day to Hilaria, a festival celebrated in Ancient Rome at the end of March. There, the followers of the Cybele cult would dress up as disguises and mock citizens. 

Whatever the real story is, in the 18th century, Britain followed the April Fools’ Day tradition, and since then, it has spread all over the world. People quickly caught the funny occasion and adopted it in their own culture. 

Since then, countless jokes and pranks have been made, some funny, some mean, but always with good intentions. And the Internet, along with the new digital tools available to the masses, has added a whole new level of creativity and diffusion. People keep celebrating April Fools’ Day every year and keep coming up with new pranks to have some fun themselves and make others laugh. 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Revolutionary Skincare from Arizona: Essential Sincerity by Elli K

In a world where we can easily lose ourselves in the hustle and stress of everyday life, it is essential more than ever to take time to reconnect with our true selves. To help us do that, the revolutionary, multi-patented skincare system, Essential Sincerity by Elli K, recently launched its collection in the US. The brand’s three-part system includes Elli K Essential Sincerity from AZ Time Reverse Cream; Elli K Essential Sincerity from AZ Time Reverse Double Ampoule; and the Elli K Essential Sincerity from AZ Time Reverse Mask.

As a frequent visitor of Sedona, Arizona, Elli K discovered how natural elements found in the earth and sea contain properties that can help heal and rejuvenate our minds and bodies. Through partnering with a research lab at the University of Arizona, Elli K found a way to harness the energy and healing properties of these elements, creating a skincare system that repairs and restores damaged, aging skin - as if “reversing time.”

The three Elli K skincare products consist of four unique patented complexes with detoxifying properties made from Sedona Water and the rare Turritopsis dohrnii, also known as the “immortal jellyfish.”

Those complexes are:
AZ10-BIOME™ - designed using a special double-fermenting process that blends cactus honey, echinacea, and banana yucca with Sedona Water to provide deep moisture to the skin.
AZ4-Rx™ - formulated with the most skin-friendly fermented oils to enhance the skin’s natural protection against the external environment.
NEUROVITY™ - an anti-aging complex, the “secret” of the immortal jellyfish.
PROGELINE™ - makes the skin more elastic and smooth.

Also an accomplished musician, Elli K incorporated music into the skincare ritual as a way to also reinvigorate the spirit. The seven tracks of soothing symphonic music transport the listener on a sonic journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Arizona, while relaxing for 20 minutes after applying the Elli K Time Reverse Mask. Each track blends actual sounds of Arizona nature into the music, including the wind, birds, and flowing water. Combining both skincare and music in a relaxing multi-sensory ritual, balance is restored both inside and out.

In addition to touch and sound, the luxurious fragrance of the Elli K skincare products reinvigorates the sense of smell. Created by experts based on over a century of research in Argeville, France, the natural fragrances within the products enhance the relaxation and restoration of balance in the body.

Argeville is in compliance with environmental standards and health-conscious business ethics, which further provides Essential Sincerity by Elli K customers with a natural and nurturing way of beauty.

It’s time to rediscover the true you with Elli K.

The new Elli K EP, The Journey of a Hummingbird will also be available exclusively to Elli K customers with their purchase of the Essential Sincerity skincare system.

To check the entire line of products please visit ellikbeauty.com

For All Media Inquiries:
Beatrice Kimmel
EMPKT PR
Beatrice@empktpr.com

 

Stay Trendy!

 

As Spring becomes more vivid, it’s time to open your closets and switch all the warm jackets and sweaters to tops and skirts. 

This Spring is the best time to get naughty with the latest trend about mini skirts! After being out of style for some time, in 2022 ‘minis’ are having a comeback! Both high and low-waisted mini-skirts were presented on the runway at the last NYFW and got a lot of attention. Take, for example, the viral Miu Miu mini skirt that brought us right back to the 2000s. 

By the way, if you are a low-waist lover, this year’s trends are just for you! Not only low-waisted skirts but also low-rise jeans and pants have returned! Now, under-the-belly-button waistlines are a hit in new designers’ collections.

If you want to spice up this trend, try matching it with colorful tops (for example, lime-green, hot pink, or butter yellow, which are also a trend this year) or, if you are ready for more experiments, with triangular bras underneath a longer coat. 

If low-rise is not for you, but you still want to wear something trendy and extravagant, try feathers. You can wear them any way you like: feather sandals, dresses, open-back feathered tops - anything would do it! But in case you think that’s too much, there is still a way for you to put on some feathers. Try shirts with feathers around the wrists or the ankles.

This Spring/Summer 2022 season is the perfect chance to be outrageously sexy! Don’t miss it! 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Kilts and Whiskey: How to Understand Men

 

Men are always hard to understand. What do they like? What do they really want? Why do they do something in one way, and not the other? 

One of the many questions I couldn’t find an answer for is why do they like strong drinks so much? For example, whiskey. What is so special about it? 

The word whiskey comes from the Irish uisce beatha means “water of life,” which already sounds like a reason to try it, but let’s dig deeper. 

Whiskey is one of the oldest drinks and originally comes from Ireland. It is believed that Irish monks brought the technology of distilling perfumes from their travels to southern Europe. Then they modified the technique so that the substance became drinkable. 

Irish whiskey, in comparison to Scotch whiskey, has a smoother finish. The second one is more smoky with an earthy overtone. 

So, knowing the drink's history, why is Irish whiskey so popular among men? Why do they prefer whiskey to, for example, sweet cocktails? 

My understanding is that Irish whiskey is a status drink. It’s not only about the taste but also about the vibe it gives. Choosing whiskey represents a rich man with good taste and a particular reputation. 

When I hear “whiskey,” I see a man sitting in an armchair next to the fireplace with a glass of this drink. In another hand, he is holding a cigar, and somewhere next to him is his dog sleeping on the mat. 

The picture looks exquisite! I understand why most men want to see themselves in it. I would still prefer wine or a cocktail to whiskey, but that’s only because I want to see myself in a different picture. 

Speaking of the Irish and Scottish whiskey, I was also thinking about why men wore kilts? And why do they still wear them now? 

The kilt is a knee-length men’s dress skirt. Men used to wear kilts on formal occasions and sports events. 

At first, it was a full-length garment, and men could wear the upper side as a draped over-the-shoulder cloak. Then, around the 1720s, Thomas Rawlinson, an English Quaker, invented a small (or walking) kilt. The idea was to separate the skirt from the upper part of the clothing to be easier to wear. 

Even though wearing a kilt might look strange to a modern person, it actually makes sense. A skirt makes it easier for men to move, especially considering wearing kilts during sports events. It gave them complete freedom of movement.

Wearing kilts now is, of course, not necessary. So why do men still wear them? 

I think it’s mostly a feeling of respect for your traditions and a connection to your roots. I doubt that kilts are widely spread in everyday life now. It is probably mostly worn to traditional weddings, sports games, and parades. It is also popular to wear kilts as a uniform in some traditional bars or restaurants. 

Even though wearing kilts as a uniform looks very authentic and traditional, men need to be careful about it. Historically, kilts can be worn both with or without underwear, but it is believed that the “true Scotsman” won’t wear anything under his kilt. However, there have been stories about women who, after a couple of drinks in a bar, wanted to find out if the waiter was a “true Scotsman,” and instead of asking, checked it themselves. Because of that, in 2015, a bartender of the Hootananny pub in Inverness had to abandon kilts. 

Instead of kilts, bartenders and waiters now wear Tartan shorts, which have the same pattern as kilts and are also associated with Scotland. 

Well, men are probably not that hard to understand. It only takes a little bit of imagination and researching to figure that out!

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

The Beauty of The Emeral Isle in New York

 

Celtic music is a whole of different music genres that came out of the folk music traditions of the Celtic people. It has a lot of various forms specific to each Celtic country: Irish, Scottish, Welsh, etc. 

This Sunday, March 13, New Yorkers will have a chance to learn more about the Irish branch of Celtic music with the show ‘Postcards from Ireland.’ It’s a brand new show by ‘Celtic Woman,’ a Grammy-nominated music band.

Since the band’s debut in 2005, Celtic Woman has become a cultural phenomenon, consistently releasing best-selling albums and DVDs. 

Through its music, Celtic Woman celebrates the traditions, culture, and history of Ireland while reflecting on the modern spirit of the country. 

In the 16 years of performing, they were able to touch the hearts of listeners from all over the world! 

Celtic Woman is a four-member band. The present members are Tara McNeill, Megan Walsh, Muirgen O’Mahony, and Chloë Agnew, who is one of the original members of Celtic Woman. 


The Celtic Woman’s beautiful voices and masterful command of their instruments are accompanied by Irish dancers, bagpipes, and a band playing traditional Celtic instruments, like tin whistle, bodhran, Uilleann pipes, and bouzouki. 

Now Celtic Woman is ready to charm us with their new show. Postcards from Ireland “celebrates the rich musical and cultural heritage of Ireland,” introducing the audience to the stories from the Emerald Isle. 

The show is going to take place on Sunday, March 13, in St. George Theater, 35 Hyatt Street, Staten Island. 

Make sure to buy tickets and dive into Ireland's rich history and traditions with the amazing performance of Celtic Woman.


Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

 

Influence me, NYC!

 

In today’s world, Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms. It enables us to talk to friends, show our lives and even work as a blogger. 


Bloggers, or - more appropriately - influencers, are often the first to implement fashion trends by portraying their lifestyles, so their job is to keep their audience updated and make sure that their content is regular and entertaining. 

NYC is one of the best places for these influencers! Fashion weeks, hundreds of various brands, restaurants, and fancy locations are a great environment for creativity and work.

One of the most iconic locations is in Dumbo, with its view of the Manhattan Bridge. That is a place where almost everyone made at least one picture! 

Another bridge we can’t forget is, of course, Brooklyn Bridge. Pictures in front of its arches look very fashionable and chic all year around! 

A newer location opened in NYC last October. It is ‘The Summit,’ a glass observatory atOne Vanderbilt. It features a glass elevator thatbrings you to a room 1,200 feet above the ground, all made of mirrors. That looks like a great location for any fashion blogger! Futuristic and unconventional, this is the best place to take a picture in a trendy outfit. 

Personally, my favorite location for influencers is Times Square. Always bright with all the screens, busy and loud, it gives a great New York City vibe with its energy, modernity, and progress. 

But the job of influencers doesn’t stop at just finding a brand and a good location. They need to learn how to best present the brands they collaborate with. That’s when modeling helps. As bloggers become more and more popular, they get more professional in modeling and posing. All their pictures look like the work of a professional model. 

 
 

For example, Chinese - American blogger Jessica Wang does a great job posing in front of the camera. Her pictures look fresh, and, what’s important, she is always able to show her outfit fully from the best angle. 

Another fashionista whom I found interesting is Amra Beganovich. Her pictures are done in a very different way, even color-wise, but they are definitely original! Very cozy outfits show a vibe of minimalism, comfort, and warmth. Of course, with Dumbo, SoHo, Central Park, and Manhattan streets as favorite locations! 

 

A little bit different are the works of a male influencer Francisco Lachowski. His posing is full of strength, sex, power, and masculinity. Such differences between men and women influencers are very understandable. Different fashion and different brands lead to a different vibe. 

Influencers always have to keep up with trends and make professional shots to attract their audience and present new brands. It’s hard work, which influencers learned to do very professionally! 

I, myself, am very impressed by the way they improved in the last couple of years! 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Photos by Joseph R. Fraia - jrfstudio.com

The cast form Russian Arts Studio and Theater in New York photographed by Joseph Fraia

Photo by Joseph Ralph Fraia

Celebrating 400th Anniversary of Moliere

 

On cold February evenings, it’s always nice to feel warmth, passion, happiness, and inclusiveness. So on Saturday, February 19, I decided to visit the Russian Arts Theater & Studio. The theater was presenting a marvelous play dedicated to the 400th anniversary of Moliere, a 17th-century French playwright. 

Aleksey Burago, a very talented Russian director, was able to create a light, funny and realistic play, representing the time Moliere lived in. The play was genuinely unforgettable between the bright costumes, tights, dresses, shoes, candlelight illuminating the whole set and the great set design made to resemble French theater! 


The play is set in a theater, where Moliere is getting ready to show the king his new play, and the audience is simultaneously watching the play and taking part in it. The theater exists simultaneously in 21st century New York and 17th century Paris. Even though the presentation is scheduled for that day, actors do not know their roles and don’t want to rehearse. So instead, they are replaying scenes from their old plays: Versailles Impromptu, The Misanthrope, Tartuffe, The Miser, and Don Juan. 


What was most exciting was that all the viewers were engaged in the play. Since the audience was, to some degree, truly part of the play, they felt like they were participating in everything that was happening along with the actors. I myself got worried that nothing was ready and I didn’t know my part! And some of the actors were entering right from the auditorium, talking to everybody on their way to the stage, which made everyone feel included. 

The cast of extremely talented and diverse actors, including Albert Baker, Michael Anne Hoffert-Cone, Luisa Menzen, Robyne Parrish, Tom Schubert, Naira Zakaryan, and Di Zhu, were able to play each of their different roles very brightly and convincingly.

Tom Schubert was exquisite in the role of Moliere! Deeply worried about his reputation, not able to coordinate the actors, he was funny and enjoyable to watch! His ability to rapidly switch between roles without missing a line can only be envied!


Di Zhu, who played Mademoiselle Molière, showed a jealous wife who doesn’t like not being heard and appreciated by her husband. She was able to make every woman think about their men and every man think twice about neglecting the woman they love. 


All of the actors had very palpable chemistry that everyone in the audience could feel from the first few minutes. They were playful, flirtatious, and charming.


Mr. Burago said that this was his goal. He wanted to create something funny and warm that would reflect Moliere’s life, work, and lifestyle. 


The director explained that the real king, who Moliere was trying to oblige, is the audience because it is only the audience who determines if the play is high quality or not.


“It’s all about people,” and people really seemed to enjoy it!


Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Photos by Joseph R. Fraia - jrfstudio.com

The Year Ahead. Let’s make a plan!

 

NYC is slowly coming back to normal, and dozens of new exhibitions and festivals are being planned for 2022. Here is the short list of the most interesting events I found for you! 

  

2022 Exhibitions 

  

Sherlock Holmes in 211 Objects (till April 15) 

This exhibition, located at the Grolier Club in Lenox Hill, will feature "an unrivaled number" of Sir Conan Doyle's belongings. Among these belongings are short story manuscripts, holograph letters from Conan Doyle to friends, a book idea, a calendar note where Doyle wrote "killed Holmes" on, and a handwritten speech where the author explains the killing of Sherlock Holmes.  

  

Tomás Saraceno: Particular Matter(s) (February 11 - April 17) 

Hosted by The Shed, located in the Bloomberg Building at 545 W 30th St, “Tomás Saraceno: Particular Matter(s)" features a 95-foot-diameter installation commissioned for the exhibit called "Free the Air: How to hear the universe in a spider/web.” The exhibition will fill the soaring 17,000-square-foot space and will emit vibrations from the movement of particles in the air and a spider’s entangled webs.” 

  

TRUST (January 31 - May 30) 

TRUST is a data-driven immersive exhibition, created via a collaboration between ARTECHOUSE, the host of the exhibition, and fuse*. fuse* is a multidisciplinary art studio engaging with technology to understand the complexity of human interaction. In the exhibition, fuse* is exploring and giving its interpretation of the concept of trust. The event is held in ARTECHOUSE NYC, located at 439 W 15th St. 

  

Louise Bourgeois: Paintings (April 12 - August 7) 

This exhibition, hosted by the Metropolitan Museum of Art, presents paintings produced by Louise Bourgeois, a French-American artist, between her arrival in New York in 1938 and her turn to sculpture in the 1940s. The Met describes the exhibit as the first comprehensive exhibition of the artist’s paintings, which established the motifs that defined her later work as a sculptor. 

  

Virgil Abloh “Figures Of Speech” (July 1 - January 29, 2023) 

This exhibition presents the work of Virgil Abloh, late visionary artist and designer. The guests will see how his work reshaped the way we understand the role of fashion, art, design, and music in contemporary culture. The exhibition will be held in the Brooklyn Museum.  

  

NYC X Design (May 10-20) 

NYCxDESIGN is a non-profit organization that is “committed to empowering and promoting the city’s diverse creative community.” Starting from May 10 and until May 20, you will be able to take part in the tenth anniversary NYCxDesign Festival with group exhibitions, public installations, and open studios.  

  

The Orchid Show in NYC guide (through May 1) 

“The Orchid Show: Jeff Leatham’s Kaleidoscope” returns to NYC this year, after the display was interrupted by Covid in 2020. The New York Botanical Garden’s Enid A. Haupt conservatory will be transformed into a kaleidoscope of hypnotic floral designs, under the direction of American designer Jeff Leatham. 

2022 Fashion Events 

In America: An Anthology of Fashion (May 7 - September 5) 

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is presenting the second part of the exhibition, which explores fashion of the United States, In America: An Anthology of Fashion. According to the MET, the exhibition “will highlight sartorial narratives that relate to the complex and layered histories of the American Wing period rooms.” 

 

Kimono Style. The John C. Weber Collection (June 7 - February 20, 2023) 

This exhibition will show the kimono styles from the late Edo period (1615–1868) through the early 20th century when the kimono was adapted to the lifestyle of Japanese women. The exhibition will feature works of John C. Weber Collection of Japanese art that explores “the mutual artistic exchanges between the kimono and Western fashion, as well as highlights from The Costume Institute’s collection.” 

  

The Color Black in History and Fashion (March 23) 

Throughout the centuries, the color black has adorned princes and priests, rebels and renegades, and artists and intellectuals. Prominent in fashion today, Black has carried myriad meanings and messages as the color was associated with various individuals and groups. On the evening of March 23rd, at the National Arts Club, art historian Carmela Spinelli will explore the rich history behind the color Black, and how it came to hold such a special place in fashion. 

  

Leah McSweeney: Chaos Theory (April 5) 

Leah McSweeney, a fashion designer and Real Housewives of New York City star will present her debut memoir Chaos Theory: Finding Meaning in the Madness, One Bad Decision at a Time. The event is going to happen in The Strand Book Store's 3rd floor Rare Book Room at 828 Broadway on 12th Street. 

  

Bonnet Bash “A Feast For The Eyes” (April 8) 

Hosted by the National Arts Club, the Bonnet Bash showcases a plethora of extravagant headwear. Designers including Sarah Sparkles and Darrell Thorne will take part. Visitors can create their own hat and bring it to potentially win one of many prizes.   

  

NYFW Bridal April (April 6 - April 8) 

  

New York Fashion Week (September 9 - September 14) 

Film Festivals 2022 

Tribeca Film Festival (June 8 - 19) 

New York International Children’s Film Festival (March 4 - March 13) 

The New York International Children’s Film Festival is the biggest festival in the country for kids' movies and animation. It includes new screenings, short film programs, information sessions with the creators, workshops and other special events throughout the celebration.  

  

NYC Independent Film Festival (June 12 - June 19) 

The NYC Independent Film Festival is an annual event displaying the best independent cinematography. It introduces the public to movies made by local NYC directors, as well as to a variety of foreign films.  

  

Big Apple Film Festival (May 23 - May 27) 

Big Apple is a film festival that is focused on showing movies from the NYC independent film community. It also showcases a limited number of selected films across the United States and other countries. 

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Photo by Unsplash

Crazy Rich Super Bowl

 

The Super Bowl is back, and Americans are ready to party. This year marks the 56th anniversary of the NFL Championship, with the Los Angeles Rams and the Cincinnati Bengals fighting for the victory. 

While most people will party in their backyards or at their neighbor's bar with beer and nachos, few will throw expensive and luxurious parties in their mansions. 

Rob Gronkowski, the famous football player, is in for a big party this year. He is inviting one of his fans and up to 15 of his friends to his house, where they will be able to watch a game, drink, and celebrate. In an interview with FOX Business, Gronkowski said, that the party is going to be “epic,” with mini-golf and a bounce house planned. 

Bloomberg and Neiman Marcus are also hosting a party in the famous Goldstein Manson in Los Angeles with its pool, outdoor terrace, and club area. The house has already been used for various film and music video shoots, and this year it’s opening its doors for the Super Bowl fans. 

But probably the most expensive celebration will be thrown by Playboy, with the price of the tickets varying from $1,250 to just get inside to $25,000 for a VIP ticket with drinks and a personal table included. So if you are looking for a luxurious Super Bowl party, and you’re willing to pay a pretty penny, this one is for you. 

As a person who has never celebrated the Super Bowl before, I was amazed by how big the parties can get. For me, though, it’s going to be a small one: at home with some friends watching the game but also waiting for the Halftime Show which this year is dedicated to hip-hop culture with Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and Kendrick Lamar performing. 

I think that’s a good way to start!

Article by Mary Zakharova

Editing by Joseph R. Fraia

Photos by Joseph R. Fraia - jrfstudio.com

Cam Vidal photographed by @adelaidechantilly

Cam Vidal - The Rhythm of Life pounding the strings of her Bass.

 

I am on my way to the ‘Grey Dog,’ the iconic hipster homey cafe destination for many of the nearby NYU students, and, as I walk through Union Square, I see the humanity of New York City attempting to regain a sense of normality in days that are still complex and uncertain in many different ways.

Nevertheless, if there is a quality that unifies all New Yorkers, that is undisputedly resilience. The City is the renowned most challenging boot camp for the daily grind and hustle you can find in the world. But, notoriously, it is also the place where you can find an unexpected oasis of tranquillity and relaxation, and maybe that is, indeed, a self-defense mechanism for a population otherwise always inevitably on edge.

I know I will have my moment of relax and chill because I am about to meet songwriter, musician, and performer Camille (Cam) Vidal.

She greets me with her bright and sincere smile and the adorable way she pronounces my name with her French accent: Joséf.

As we sit at our table, Cam tells me how happy and enthusiastic she is to be in New York, the city she envisioned herself in since she was a little girl, passionate about music and adventure.

And so, carried by her electric positivity, I asked her what she loves so much about being a musician in New York. 

The reason - she says - is that she gets to play with so many incredible artists, different for background, style, and skills, and in so many different contexts and venues, each one with their distinctive audience and aficionados, always competent and passionate.

Jam Sessions are another incredible plus of living in New York as an artist, she points out, because they give a musician the opportunity to continuously train and engage with an astonishing variety of performers and styles.

In such an environment, she feels like a kid in a candy store, immersed in a dream world where she can learn, exchange and grow as a person and as an artist.

Something that really surprised and impressed her positively has been the inclusiveness and support that fellow musicians and performers provide to each other in New York. She stressed out that on and off the stage, she receives waves of inputs, tips, and feedback always with a smile and sincere appreciation, especially from musicians older or more experienced than her, something that has allowed her to improve in so many areas and so much faster.

We are already 20 minutes into our conversation, and Cam and I realize that the waitress is waiting for us to place our order. So, after exchanging an accomplice and silly glance at each other, we hide behind our menus and swiftly order two drinks.

As we laugh about our childish mix of guilt and fun, I ask Camille about her first steps into music and what brought her into that world.

She recounts starting as early as six years old, with an initial interest in acoustic guitar. Everything looked really good until she was diagnosed with severe scoliosis and underwent surgery. The outcome was positive, but the consequent pain and especially the rehabilitation process turned out to be longer and more challenging than she thought, to the point that Camille even considered altogether dropping studying and practicing music.

That is when who stepped in was her father, a professional drummer himself. His familiarity with music, especially rhythm and coordination, pushed him to inspire and convince Camille to continue, switching from guitar to bass on the conviction that the latter is the backbone of any real band. As a result, she could strengthen her spine in learning to become the load-bearing pillar of fellow musicians.

Cam embraced the challenge and didn’t regret it. Not only did she continue her studies at the local municipal school but she was also babysitting to pay for her bills. In addition, she formed a close and special relationship with two of the kids she was looking after. They even went on a tour in France, reaching national notoriety and publishing an album.

Music at that point was Cam’s life, and she enrolled at the local jazz school: another challenging path she undertook and overcame, graduating after five years at the age of only 22 years old and publishing a pop EP in the process.

Understandably, Cam’s talent and passion were bigger than just the borders of France, so she decided to learn English and move to New York City back in 2018. Since then, she says her experience and growth have been invaluable.

At this point, I am really impressed by Cam’s spontaneity and simplicity with which she describes such an incredible journey at such a young age. And so, I want to know more about her, especially about her creative process. Her answer yet again surprised me.

It turns out that she is entirely autonomous and independent when it comes to composing her music. She started at a young age and doesn’t just write her bass lines, but the ones of all the other instruments: drums, guitar, and keyboards. She sings too. So, composer, songwriter, and singer. Amazing!

Now, as for many artists, Cam says that also for her the creative process rather than conscious is more a compulsive one. But what is peculiar about her, is how she has obviated satisfying her creative urge: using the Garage Band app on her iPhone.

That allows her to create and compose wherever she is. She tells me that, ear pods on, whenever she feels inspired she opens her phone and writes tracks, bases, and lyrics. On the subway, chilling in a park, on the commute to work, or just sitting at home. She can’t explain where the creative impulse comes from, but she knows she can’t resist it and enjoys how the process unfolds. 

One of her main inspirations is American composer, record producer, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist Marcus Miller. She aspires to be musically polyvalent and to be able to let the choral component of her songs shine, jumping from jazz and R’n’B to pop and funk, keeping voice and instruments a unison.

All that sounded amazing to me, that’s why I was super happy to hear from Cam that, soon, she will publish her first album as a mature artist, a project that for her - she tells me - is very personal and very important because it is going to embody who she is and what her vision represents. It’s going to be a work to inspire people to be and feel proud about themselves, but also a testimony of the importance of living by example, like she is doing, being independent, not fearful, and without taboos.

Almost two hours went by in a snap, and I didn’t realize how long we had been talking. 

Cam and I finished our drinks a long time ago, and we can see our waitress squinching her eyes towards us, and we understood it was time for us to leave the table to somebody else. Not before hearing from Cam that her album will be in production during this year and the release is scheduled for the end of 2022. Until then she will keep performing in NYC with a lot of bands, so follow her on Instagram @camvidal to stay posted. I know I will do and can’t wait to see her performing live. 

Damn’, I love New York so much.

Article by Joseph Ralph Fraia - jrfstudio.com

Photo Credit @adelaidechantilly

OUT NOW! New Award-winning Independent Film

THE REUNION available on major North American VOD Platforms

 

New Award-winning Independent Film THE REUNIONavailable on major North American VOD Platforms 

CLICK TO ORDER ON iTUNES 

Starring: Dave Rosenberg, Andrea Modica, Dinh James Doan and Cara Ronzetti 

With Special Appearances by:  Drama Desk Award-winning actor Austin Pendleton and Actor/Comedian Jim Norton

 

(Los Angeles, CA - February 1, 2022)  

Today, the award-winning spiritual thriller film, The Reunion, hits all major VOD platforms in North America. The film, which won Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Director, and Best Feature Film at film festivals last year, is available now on North American VOD (Comcast, Spectrum, Altice), iVOD  (iTunes, Prime Video, ROKU, Apple TV) and Home Video distribution platforms (DVD, Blu-ray). For a full list of where to purchase the film, view here.  

 

Film Threat calls The Reunion “a gorgeous film to look at from start to finish" with "awe-inspiring cinematography" and "great storytelling." 

Film Daily says “the film carries a poignant balance of self-deprecation within self-realization.” 

Behind the Rabbit Productions says “the film was shot guerilla-style in 16 days, but you would never know it. It looks like a much bigger-budget feature, and the music and editing contribute to the professional feel of the film.” 

 

The Reunion first premiered at the 2021 Julien Dubuque International Film Festival in Iowa and has been presented at three other film festivals in New York. The film has garnered four awards so far, including Best Picture and Best Actor at the SOHO International Film Festival as well as Best Feature Film and Best Director at the Nyack Film Festival last fall. Nyack Film Festival Director Richard Quinn calls the film " a spiritual thriller” that “digs deeply into the center of psychological and philosophical tension.” 

The Reunion is based on the real-life traumatic childhood experience of Dave Rosenberg, the film’s writer and producer who also stars as the protagonist, Ricky Reilly. Ricky, a former actor who is seeking spiritual fulfillment, suddenly has his life turned upside down when he runs into his childhood bully. Seeing his old nemesis reawakens memories and emotions that compel Ricky to finally face his greatest fear in order to discover a new definition of manhood. 

The film also stars Andrea Modica, Dinh James Doan, and Cara Ronzetti, with special appearances by Drama Desk Award-winning actor Austin Pendleton and Actor/Comedian Jim Norton.

The Reunion is out now on iTunes on all other major VOD, iVOD and Home Video platforms, listed here 

 

Gravitas Ventures is the film’s exclusive North American distributor. The partnership was negotiated by Megan Huggins of Gravitas Ventures and DJ Dodd of Future Proof Films on behalf of the filmmakers. 

 

For all press inquiries, contact Beatrice Kimmel at beatrice@empktpr.com or at 917-848-0919. 

 

MORE ABOUT THE FILM 

The Reunion is a passion project created over two decades by Rosenberg with his friends and colleagues, Andrea Modica and Dinh Doan. The film follows in the footsteps of similar films born by brotherhood, such as Swingers, Good Will Hunting and BlindspottingThe Reunion illuminates New York City in the way movies like Annie Hall, Manhattan and Taxi Driver did in the 1970s. The film is the product of nearly 100 dedicated filmmakers, collaborating on the East Coast and West Coast, on a very low budget, with all the creativity, talent, grit and determination of a Scorsese film.  

 

ABOUT GRAVITAS VENTURES 

Gravitas Ventures is a worldwide film distributor that connects filmmakers and producers with a global audience of over a billion people. As an all-rights distributor, Gravitas has hundreds of relationships with movie theatres and across home entertainment including VOD, DVD and television. Gravitas was one of the first companies to develop a global network of digital media partners across transactional video on demand (VOD), premium video on demand (PVOD), subscription video on demand (SVOD), and ad-sponsored video on demand (AVOD). For more information:  https://gravitasventures.com/  

 

The Reunion is available on major VOD platforms (find full listing below): 

https://www.thereunionfilm.com/  

 

For More Information: 

https://www.thereunionfilm.com/ | https://www.facebook.com/the.reunion.film.nyc/  

  

For All Media Inquiries:  Beatrice Kimmel / Beatrice@empktpr.com / 917-848-0919 

Meet Annie Nguyen, the seven years old Vietnamese girl from Houston with a dream to conquer NYFW runways

 

I had the pleasure to meet Annie, a seven-year-old model in Houston, at her first catwalk in December 2020 at one of the first children's fashion shows in the Greater Houston area.

Annie looks like an angel: slender body, silky long thick black hair, and big double-lid almond-shaped eyes, the unique features of the Southeast Asian ladies and young girls.

Annie was timid at first when she met me. But after just a few minutes, when she started to get to know me, she offered to sing and dance a traditional Vietnamese song for me, and I was so impressed.

When I told her that she was pretty, she smiled brightly and said it was because she looked like her father, Linh Nguyen.

We have kept in touch ever since; her talent and innocence really touched me.

I learned that she has two older brothers, one of whom was born with diabetes at birth. Even though she is just a little girl, she helps her parents take care of the sick brother and keep the house tidy.

This NYFW Feb 2022, Annie and her mom will be in New York City for the first time for Annie to participate in fashion shows for children.

We can't wait to see Annie, the Vietnamese Texan girl, shining on the runway in Big Apple.

Photos by Nguyen Family

Chuck’s Vintage

A Luxurious Legacy in Denim

 

A new luxurious flagship retail outlet is opening in Manhattan, and this is the place for those with a taste for fashion to get their fix. Chuck’s Vintage, an iconic brand renowned among celebrity elite and fashion enthusiasts alike, is saying goodbye to LA and hello to New York City.

Steve Jobs, Robert Plant, Morrisey, Alexa Chung, and - according to The SPIN OFF magazine - "every starlet in-between” were among the first customers in the original LA’s Melrose Place store, opened in 2006, by founder and iconic supermodel Madeline Cammarata.

The opening of the new flagship will be to celebrate the memory of Cammarata, who tragically passed away less than a year ago. She began her fashion journey as a model after being discovered by legendary photographer Helmut Newton. Her love for vintage clothing grew throughout her illustrious career, having once sold a famed pair of jeans for one million dollars (the most expensive pair ever sold!). She additionally provided fabric development for renowned clothing brands, including 7 For All Mankind.

James DiPrima, president of Chuck’s Vintage, said in a recent interview “this is our way of not only keeping Madeline’s legacy alive but also growing the brand that she grew from the ground up and made into a sensation worldwide. I and everyone who knew and worked with Madeline, want to share her passion and innovation with everyone.”

Chuck's specializes in securing denim apparel. Its blue jean pieces range from Strongholds found in the California Gold Rush mines to World War II-Era Levi's, Lees, and Wranglers, as well as 1960's ladies high-waisted and groovy deadstock Levi's bells.

Customers can also purchase vintage American workwear, including rugged military and work boots, buttery leather bomber jackets, and soft, perfectly worn-in vintage 70's rocker tees.

Despite some hurdles in her last years she continued to thrive, and grow Chuck’s Vintage into the enigmatic store it has become. Her love for New York City was the inspiration for her husband Vincent to open this flagship in Manhattan. ”My husband Vincent has never left my side, not even as we have traveled all across the country and been to every doctor,” Madeline told Social Life in 2018. “This man has loved me unconditionally. My life, to me, is a real love story, and I don’t think it’s something that other people have experienced the way I have.”

Nothing Haunts Us Like the Vintage We Didn’t Buy.

Learn more:

Website: www.chucksvintage.com

Instagram: @chucksvintageoriginal

Sonali Raman presents her new collection ‘Summer Sorbet’ during NYFW 2021 at The Rooftop of Selina Hotel, Chelsea - NYC

 

In the luxurious and exotic ambient of ‘The Rooftop’ at Selina Hotel in Chelsea, New York, designer Sonali Raman presented yesterday, September 8, her ‘Summer Sorbet’ Collection during the event organized by ‘Shop Local Designers’ in collaboration with the PR agency Find Your ID NYC. Press and Media coverage was provided by the team of the international lifestyle magazine Livein and JRF Studio.

The creations presented on the runway are a fine selection of jewelry and dresses that stand out for their vibrant colors, pastel notes, and very original patterns, ideal for women who want to feel beautiful and comfortable.

The new collection is extremely versatile and fresh, offering perfect solutions as loungewear, resort wear, and practical but fancy apparel to run everyday errands. 

Wearing Sonali’s creations is not only a choice for style but one for a different increasingly supported approach to fashion that pays attention to the sustainability of the materials and the ethical nature of its sources.

Sonali’s dresses and jewelry are made with exceptional care for the selection of the fabrics, all-natural, and the assurance of fair work conditions for the expert artisans who make those creations possible.

The show at Selina Hotel, Chelsea, was blessed with a beautiful day that exhibited an evocative, warm sunset right when the models came out on the runway, and a soft breeze added an exotic, magical vibe to an experience that was welcomed with awe by an audience captivated by the perfection of the moment.

Sonali Raman is already based in New York and present in the U.S. as a member of the Shop Local Designers’ Collective of designers and creatives centered around the homonymous platform shoplocaldesigners.com and its brand representative program, which has allowed her an immediate and pervasive introduction in several fashion events and pop-ups in iconic locations in New York City and Long Island.

The designs presented on the runway will be already available to customers at the sustainable fashion pop-up event on Sunday, September 12, at Idealglass Studio in the heart of the West Village. An excellent opportunity to add Sonali’s creations to your wardrobe and jewelry box.  

For more info, visit shoplocaldesigners.com and follow us on Instagram @shoplocaldesigners.

Article and photos by Joseph Fraia - jrfstudio.com - Instagram @jrfstudio  

Featured Models: Sarah Neides, Cheyenne Borden-Brunet, Yuki Fan, Sybelle Gaubert, Zunaira Khan, Alexandra VanHoesen, Maxine Hoover, Angelico Osterburg,

The Fashionista Professor of New York City: Dr. Ngoc Cindy Pham

 

Interview and article by Joseph Ralph Fraia

On Saturday, I had the pleasure to interview Dr. Ngoc Cindy Pham, Brooklyn College marketing professor at the luxury Ideal Glass studio in West Village—Manhattan. At the time of this interview, both Dr. Pham and Imani Jones, CEO of Find Your ID NYC (a global talent agency), were auditioning models for the upcoming New York fashion week (NYFW). Dr. Pham was always professional and fashionable. She dressed in a trendy pink suit with the designer slingback heels and the latest collection of Gucci wallets. Before I sat down with Dr. Pham, the first impression she gave me was a welcoming smile and a handshake. Dr. Pham greeted me with her native Vietnamese name, “Ngoc” (K-n-o-c). She told me that “Ngoc” means “Emerald” in her native language (Vietnamese). During the interview, Dr. Pham discussed with me the latest trends in the fashion industry, how she was involved in the New York fashion week, and how she could apply her academic and professional knowledge to the fashion industry. But also how marketing could be taught and learned with hands-on experience, how she coached her students to take on any opportunities that are good for their career, and how she settled down in her new hometown NYC.

One of Dr. Pham’s students, Johnny Desius, senior Brooklyn College student in Finance, was at the casting site for New York fashion week models. He was quite interested in being on stage to be a model and was encouraged by Dr. Pham to take this rare audition opportunity. He had been working hard and practicing for modeling. Johnny told me, “I have been waiting for this casting opportunity for two years. I read the announcement for a model audition on International Business Association (IBA) club social media, which was made by Dr. Pham when she was on sabbatical. I first walked for a fashion show in October 2019 at the Halloween Music and Fashion at Brooklyn College. Professor Pham and her IBA student club collaborated with the NYFW designers to bring out artists to perform for free for students on campus. After that, I realized my love and passion for being a runway model. I have been practicing since then. ” Due to his hard work, practicing, and Dr. Pham’s encouragement, Johnny was getting 10 out of 10 from all the judges and selected to be one of the models for Find Your ID NYC (FYIDNYC) runway this NYFW.

Derek Rosenberger, 20 years old, Pace university student, and LGBT+ community member, was another model inspired, motivated, and coached by Dr. Pham to participate in this casting call. He said, “Dr. Pham is the daily ‘gymmer’ at the Equinox-Downtown Brooklyn where I am working at the front desk. She inspires me to be a professional model. So when this opportunity came up, she informed me immediately. It is wonderful to see someone seriously want the best for me and recognize my talent.”

I also met Samantha Chan at the casting site, 25 years old, a freelance stylist and interior designer, and a Brooklyn College 2018 alumna. She told me, “I have known Dr. Pham for almost three years. I took her marketing classes in my final year. I was the lead model at the NYFW in September 2018. She inspired us to follow our passion for fashion. She shared her connections in the fashion industry with us. She always dressed well to give lectures and update us with the latest fashion trends.”

I asked Dr. Pham, “what are the things you appreciate the most in NYC?” She said, “I appreciate the Brooklyn College working environment and the various opportunities NYC can offer. My colleagues are very supportive. I lived in Texas for ten years before moving to New York. The first time I arrived at the Brooklyn College campus, they provided guidance on which kind of winter jacket I should buy to survive the New York City winter. Students are very eager to learn and inspired to be the best. Many of them are first-generation college students, so the degrees from Brooklyn College will help them change their future. New York City is the capital of the fashion world. If the students are interested in fashion, they are definitely in the right place. They just need to catch the opportunities.”

One of the opportunities Dr. Pham caught is being an event-organizing volunteer to serve the Office of Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams starting this September. She said, “I have been blessed with the kindness of the people in New York City. I am a resident of Midwood, Brooklyn. My neighbors are supportive. I want to return the favor. This is my culture. I see my future in New York City. I would like to help grow my beloved city, my new hometown. If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.”

The Man of Style

 

Aleksander Janik is a man of style and of sophisticated mannerisms that seems to come from another era. Always impeccably dressed and styled, he walks through the New York jet set and celebrity scene with wit, knowledge, humor, and – of course – the right dose of pungent sarcasm that distinguishes all New Yorkers. Someone would say, and it would be right, that he is a true gentleman, in the most iconic and fashionable way you can imagine.

After all, he is one of the most renowned and respected fashion consultants and stylists in New York.

With a mile-long list of American and International celebrities, personalities, and jet setters who want to work with him, Aleksander has a unique talent in educating and sharing with people the best New York has to offer and the A-list destinations for luxury and exclusive lifestyle.

His profession has to match the highest standards in the industry and, if on the surface his job seems to be attending VIP parties and top boutiques and venues, in reality, it is a business where there isn’t room for the smallest oversight or inattention: at stake, there is the reputation and career of celebrities and personalities for whom their personal branding is worth millions, sometimes billions of dollars.

But when Aleksander is not at work, he is a very private and discreet man, one who values quality time with family and friends. And above all, the informal occasions show his genuine curiosity and attention for people from all backgrounds, ranks, and places.

The only reason I was able to convince him to do the editorial featured in this issue is because of our personal friendship and my desire to have him receiving the appreciation he deserves for his work ethic and his remarkable achievements.

He is very proud of being the embodiment of the American Dream: he is the son of Polish immigrants who came to the States, like many others, with very few resources but a strong determination to succeed.

Determination and perseverance, along with kindness and honesty, are the qualities he constantly highlights to be the most important ones that everybody should aim to, especially in their professional career.

In this editorial, I had the privilege of shooting personally the photos we feature in this issue. I wanted everybody to see how Aleksander is an authentic testimony of the values he promotes.

After all, his declared goal is to have his clients feeling beautiful, confident, and great in expressing their personalities through an original and personal style. And he is the ‘Man of Style.’

Article and pictures: Joseph Ralph Fraia @jrfstudio - jrfstudio.com

Location: Salmagundi Club, NYC

Naurah USA presents her new collection in New York at the Norwood 

 

New York-based designer Ayesha Khanna presented last April 21st, 2021, the new collection of her brand Naurah USA at the exclusive Club the Norwood in the heart of Downtown Manhattan on the occasion of the event organized by Pynk NYC in collaboration with Shop Local Designers. 

The fashion show took place in the iconic ‘Red Room,’ in the historic mansion home of the prestigious club founded by Alan Linn, and featured the elegant, high-fashion creations of Naurah USA, sophisticated gowns with a perfect mix of exotic ethnic style and edgy urban character. 

Stunning colors, elaborated embroideries, and distinctive designs exalt the appealing femininity of these dresses. 

The show was the perfect acme of an event dedicated to celebrating women in fashion and in business, the very mission of Pynk NYC, the organization founded by Creative Director Imani Jones, that partnered up with the digital platform ShopLocalDesigners.com to add to the protagonists of the night even more local creators. 

Over the four floors of the egregious mansion, the enthusiastic attendees had the chance to discover fashion designers, jewelry designers, artists, dancers, performers while enjoying the jam session lead by the band Hoox and the Afrikanos. 

The event was rewarded by overwhelming success, marked by the appreciation shown by the members of the club and the numerous guest who bought their tickets to access the highly selective venue. 

It was great to see New York City shine again as the capital of fashion and entertainment after such a challenging year and to find that die-hard Newyorkers have kept intact their love for everything makes the Big Apple such a special place to be in. 

Livein Magazine is the proud media partner of the event and will feature a full reportage of the event in the next issues of both its local and international editions. 

Article and photos by Joseph Fraia @jrfstudio 

Interview with Quach Thai Cong: Mr. Elegant

 

Interview and article by Ngoc Cindy Pham, MBA, PhD

What makes Mr. Thai Cong so successful in interior design?

I have the distinct honor to sit down with Mr. Quach Thai Cong, the magician of interior design. He is called "Mr. Elegant" for his sophisticated taste of fashion and lifestyle, which has influenced millions of Vietnamese, especially the young generations. Mr. Thai Cong's fashion taste is considered standard for gentlemen in a professional environment, not even talking about upscale society. The praise of his home decoration and lifestyle reaches the top level of being aesthetic and comfortable. In addition, Thai Cong has a successful YouTube channel with more than 400,000 followers, where he shares his daily life. Both Thai Cong and his boyfriend are advocates for the LGBT community in Vietnam, where the idea of homosexuality is still a new concept, not to mention that "coming out" publicly to family members, friends, and at the workplace is taboo. Mr. Thai Cong was born in Saigon, Vietnam. He and his family went to Germany in 1981, when he was nine years old. He speaks German, English, and Vietnamese. Thai Cong was raised in a traditional Vietnamese culture, and his design is uniquely oriental.

I myself am a Vietnamese American, born in Nha Trang, Vietnam. I have visited many countries such as Singapore, Australia and chose to reside in the USA for the last 13 years. I called NYC my home and became a college business professor three years ago at the City University of New York. I am also the Director of Marketing for New York Fashion Week – X Change Fashion Show. From my personal experience, I can say that Thai Cong's taste in fashion and interior design conforms to the international standard with a distinguished oriental twist.

It was a great pleasure sitting down with Mr. Thai Cong on a warm Tuesday morning in the lobby of Plaza Hotel in midtown Manhattan. He and his partner, Mr. Huy Yves, still under jetlag from the longest flight of 18 hours from Singapore to NYC, was well-dressed as always for our interview at 11 am. Mr. Thai Cong was in his dark blue plaid suits, the matching blue tie with baby pink hearts, and the high blue socks. Everything is perfect down to each detail. Cologne is just enough to let people around him enjoy the scent at a pleasant level. Everything with Thai Cong is perfect, at the right amount. I can describe: "If a little bit less, we feel something missing. If a bit more, it is no longer that exciting."

During the interview, Mr. Thai Cong shared with me his secret of elegance. He told me that he lives up to the standards that he teaches. He lives in a luxury home with the elegant lifestyle that he has created for his clients. When he travels, he only stays at top-notch hotels. For example, in the Plaza Hotel, where I met him for the interview, several Baccarat chandeliers are in the lobby areas. Lady Gaga once enjoyed her stay at this Plaza hotel so much that she posted several photos in her glamorous outfits from this location. Thai Cong explains: "In order to create a luxury living setting for my clients, I have to live in one. Otherwise, how can they trust my taste and expertise? Everything I have created for my clients, I myself experience, live in, such a pleasant environment. I am using tens of thousands of dollars tables, chandeliers, hundreds of dollars wine glasses at home. They are the same ones I am selling at my showroom."

Mr. Thai Cong was majored in fashion design at first. Later his talent was recognized when the clients visited his studio. They were so impressed by the elegance, beauty, and uniqueness of his furniture and decors and offered to buy them from Mr. Thai Cong. Afterward, the clients invited him to decorate their homes. From one customer to another, Mr. Thai Cong has grown the business by word of mouth. The clients happily shared Thai Cong's expertise with their friends and family. During the interview, Thai Cong was laughing when he was talking about the journey of becoming an interior designer. It is absolutely fateful!

Mr. Thai Cong is humble and charming. When I was interviewing him in Vietnamese, along with my co-host, Miss Imani Jones, the founder, and CEO of Find Your ID NYC interviewing him in English, he made many jokes. One thing I really appreciated was that - out of all the VIPs I have interviewed in the past two years - he is one of the few ones who did not want the questions ahead of time. In fact, when I offered him the question list fifteen minutes before the interview, he sent it back immediately with a smile and said, "Surprise me!"

His clients are in the top 1% in Vietnam. The contracts start from 500,000 USD. His most recent project is worth more than 5 million USD, just for interior design. He is trusted by many people. Bringing the luxury lifestyle in interior design to the emerging Vietnam market, his homeland, is profitable and at the right time.

Published by Livein Chief Editor Joseph r. Fraia

Life of an Influencer

 

This month we have the pleasure to get to know one of our favorite New York Influencers, Jillian, who reached popularity through her Instagram profile @queengotham, where she shares her lifestyle and her favorite products with a distinctive glossy and natural style.

In Pop Culture and in our society being an influencer went from a casual hobby just few years ago to become nowadays a multi-million industry with star-level personalities who are among the most popular celebrities on the planet: Chiara Ferragni, Charlie D’Amelio and … just to name a few.

In this editorial, I spent a day with Jillian during her routine in promoting the brands that she always very carefully selects, and it was really impressive the attention to detail and the professionalism that she puts in place to make sure that each brand gets appropriately and effectively portraited and promoted.

I was curious to learn directly from her what convinced her to do this editorial for traditional media when her presence is mostly digital and in particular on Instagram. And Jillian answered in her typical direct and genuine manner.

I am grateful to the opportunity Livein Magazine has given to me with this editorial so I can draw attention to some of the brands I’ve worked with in different capacities as an influencer. I wanted to highlight some of the unique businesses - both small and large - that I’ve worked with over the last year because each one of them is so special and has something great to offer to my audience. I wanted to show my appreciation and to send positive vibrations and good karma, especially considering that we still are affected by the events that have taken place during the 2020 pandemic into the present 2021’.

My second question was obviously about how she became an influencer.

All started out through my yoga training and yoga gear. As a child and teenager, I modeled runways and became what was known as a promotional model, where I worked with Buckler non-alcoholic brew, Estee Lauder and Citgo Cars to name a few.

I grew up as a gymnast first, then became a professionally trained ballet dancer and later a ballet teacher at elite schools with professional training programs, and eventually an adjunct professor. Dance injuries led to my yoga path which in turn led to my path as a healer and a successful journey of many years, with two offices in NoMad NYC as well as with at-home clientele working with some of New York’s elite.

Covid-19 changed all of this, and I turned my attention to Instagram promos, partnering with diverse, small, and larger companies, and turning my sights on furthering my education, adding to my arsenal of training certifications through the study of TCM - Traditional Chinese Medicine. Though I’m already certified in Hatha yoga, Vinyasa yoga, Thai yoga body work, and hold multiple training certificates and course completions in Pilates, ballet, martial arts and spent my entire life studying the body, I felt it was time to add to my skill set and use this time to grow and expand my knowledge and expertise. Currently, most of my partnerships reach out to me first, which is a great place to be. Until I expand, I can only take on so much, so I’m extremely choosy with whom I work with. What I envision in my future is to continue my work as a healer and yogi, while offering my audience access to some of my favorite brands. Soon I’ll have a platform on my website with access to all discount codes, special events, beauty products and tools, health and fitness, travel, hotels, and overall lifestyle and wellness brands’.

It was really inspiring to see how Jillian was able to use the experience and knowledge she gathered over the years to turn a year that could have been very negative for her into a positive transformation experience. So, I inevitably asked her what she thinks contributed the most to becoming a successful influencer.

As far as success on social media is concerned, not every platform is needed during a given time period; know what works for you as you develop and grow. Build steady from there. It can be overwhelming at times...  It is my opinion that not everything is meant to be pushed on social media. I’ve recently said to a friend this when deciding whether or not to leave a platform or add an additional platform. I told her “I feel you big time. You have to make it work for you and your goals and take breaks when necessary, and sometimes put the blinders on like a horse in the Kentucky derby my love”!

One quote I’ve carried with me my entire professional career as a dancer, and then applied to anything I’ve ever done, is by the late, great Martha Graham: “There is a vitality, a life force, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique, and if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium; and be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is, not how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open. You do not even have to believe in yourself or your work. You have to keep yourself open and aware directly of the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open. No artist is pleased. There is no satisfaction whatever at any time. There is only a queer, divine dissatisfaction, a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than the others.” I really love this quote.

Obstacles, many of us have moved due to the pandemic and closed offices, and reinvented how we operate completely. Moving is quite an undertaking in and of itself, so I understand the challenges that come along with that. I’ve been trying to manage my projects and my household, and I’m getting there. Takes time. It’s ok to take breaks and honor yourself in order to get stuff done, both personally and professionally, and in order while knowing where you want to be with your goals.

Rather than discuss what not to do I’d rather put my energy into what to do. There is no sense in putting out what doesn’t work into the energy field when we need so much for what does work to be the vibration, especially now during this time in this very moment we are in.

And about fame, my recommendation is: Never mind the fame game. That is when the piranhas start tearing at your flesh and the vampires sucking your blood and the witches begin casting their spells at you as the sharks’ fins begin to raise out of the water, that’s when you know. That’s when you know you’ve done something right; you know you are a success. You then raise your own vibration by knowing it is your soul that is invincible and unlike no other’

Jillian is clearly 100% focused and committed to her careers and, as she is busy promoting the many brands she is currently partnering with, she never stops looking at the future and already has many projects in store: collaborations with beauty treatments, services, and SPAs, as well as a recent partnership with Integrative Wellness expert Dr. Marina Yuabova, (the code queengotham garners her followers discounted services).

A new partnership is also coming up with Herbal Face Food, 100% plant ingredients that have healing benefits for the skin. It’s truly an incredible product that I’ve grown to love as part of my daily routine. Doctors have quoted my face as having “baby soft skin” after using it (her followers get a 20% discount with code queengotham).

And as soon as venues and indoor activities will reopen Jillian plans to join again wellness events and retreats.
And we can’t wait to see what QueenGotham will have to share with us!

In this editorial, Jillian featured some of her favorite brands.

Deborah Lindquist - Eco Celebrity Designer based in LA and renowned for her ‘Green Queen’ Collections

Al Hassan Toure Designs - Leather King and Celebrity Designer of unique creations

Scentbird – New York-based company offering a monthly subscription for fragrances, essences, candles, and much more (featured in the editorial: Tiziana Terenzi - Spirito Fiorentino, Oscar De La Renta - Bella Essence, scents of wood sandalwood & oak)

Habanero - Italian Handmade Bags crafted with the best materials and the trendiest styles

Goli Nutrition - The world first apple cider vinegar gummy most powerful ashwagandha gummy   

Verb Energy – Energy Bars made of green tea and are the equivalent of one single espresso

Hair La Vie – Natural Hair Products that help to rescue, rejuvenate and grow hair, with lash-enhancing serum

Viore - Shampoo and conditioner bars made by the Red Yao – 100% vegan and handmade using rice as the main ingredient

Herbal Face Food – Vegan Skincare that uses plant-based Anti-Aging, Multi-Correctional, Anti-Viral compounds.

Credits

Article by Joseph Fraia

Photographer: Joseph Fraia @jrfstudio

MUA: Kalliniki Lambronoudis @_makeupwithnikki_

Lashes: Kali Lash company

NYFW 2021: Made in NYC Fashion Show and Pop Up powered by Shop Local Designers


 

ShopLocalDesigners.com is the platform created by native New Yorkers Imani Jones, founder of global creative agency FYID NYC, and Joseph Fraia, founder of marketing & media company Livein Media, as a direct response to the pandemic in support of local designers and creatives across the country and the world.

This NYFW F/W 2021 season, Shop Local Designers presented ‘Made in NYC Fashion Show and Pop Up,’ February 12-13 at the prestigious venue ‘The Atrium’ by Ideal Glass Studios’ in the heart of the West Village in Manhattan, NY. The show aimed to celebrate New York City designers and entrepreneurs’ perseverance while reminding us that New York City is still a proud fashion capital and center for innovation, creativity, and resourcefulness. 

The roster of designers and creatives featured over the two days was indeed impressive.

On the 12th of February took place the Virtual Fashion Show of celebrity designer Anthony Rubio. Anthony is also an NYC native and the pet couturier who creates and innovates new concepts and techniques and is strictly couture. He is the first pet fashion designer to exhibit during a New York Fashion Week.

The event was Virtual and with closed doors, limited to VIP invitees and press. The show will be broadcasted by Antonio Rubio on his exclusive platforms and available via Fashion Week Online.

The 13th of February witnessed the celebration of the Shop Local Designers’ Collective of Creatives that presented a vibrant Pop-Up shop featuring the best Fashion Brands based in New York with live fashion presentations and performances by Willard Morgan, Ryan Brahms, Gideon Berger, Nkumu Katalay, and Hoox streamed virtually.

At the same location at ‘The Atrium’ on 9 West 8th Street, from 1 to 8 pm, following all the City safety and health regulations and guidelines, fashion lovers and weekend shoppers were able to browse among the creations made in NYC by based in NYC brands, Helena Magdalena, Naurah USA, Shy Corner, Kühler Co, Tafari Wraps, Vestiphobia and Kovasky by Minika Ko, accessories by Adinkra Republic, jewelry by KIL-NYC, vintage clothes and accessories by Grand Stand Fashion, as well as local businesses as JBM Jewelry, Kevana Wellness, Andrea Pina and the Jaded Scents just to name a few. 

Madbatterrnyc served its delicious cupcakes baked in Astoria, Queens.

An amazing ensemble of entrepreneurs and creatives willing to make a statement and rewire the fashion industry to its roots.

The production of ‘Made in NYC Fashion Show and Pop Up’ was made possible by the commitment of Imani Jones and Joseph Fraia, founders of ShopLocalDesigners.com, their production team, and the visionary talent of Willard Morgan, director of Ideal Glass Studios and owner of The Atrium.


The event was kindly sponsored by ‘This is Good Water.’

‘Good Water’ was birthed during a pandemic where water, although an essential need, was scarce. The company’s desire was to produce a product that was crisp and refreshing during these strenuous and exhausting times. Their goal is to provide a luxury beverage that promotes health and wealth without compromising style and appeal.

Water is luxury, and luxury is water.

For info visit www.shoplocaldesigners.com

Press/Media Inquiries, please email info@shoplocaldesigners.com

Instagram @shoplocaldesigners

Co-producers: Imani Jones @ijonesnewyork and Joseph Fria @jrfstudio

Creative Agency: Find Your ID NYC @findyouridnyc 

Media & PR: Live In Magazine @Livein_Magazine  

Model coordinator:  Taiwo Aloba @modelvoss 

Lighting designer: Curts D'Amour @curtsadamour & Joe D’Emilio 

Set designer: Mike Okerson @mokerson of Fractured Reality 

Host & venue owner:  Willard Morgan @willardmorgan 

Venue: The Atrium at Ideal Glass Studios @Idealglass 

Stylist: Tiye Eliza @tiyeeliza 

Dj: Chris Edwards @elektronic.ceez 

Assistants: Alejandra Gabriela @gabsiny & Gideon Berger @gideon_berger 

Media host:  Rebel Jones @rebellion_jones 

Art installation: Susannah Perelman of Art House NYC @arthouse.nyc 

Video:  Jordan Cortes @jordan.cortess + Mikey Gonazalez Azuaje @mickey.mov

Hair & Make Up: Emma Roudriguez @thehairbruja_emi +  Helene Marie @helene.marie

Event Sponsored by ‘This is Good Water’ @phillygoodwater

 

Shop Local Designers - 2021 NYFW Show and Pop Up Shop - February 12 and 13 2021 at ‘The Atrium’ in Greenwich Village, NY

 

#localisthenewglobal

You never forget where you come from. This year’s Pop-Up Shop and Fashion Show following NYFW 2021 uplifts Made & Based in New York City designers and brands. The Shop Local Designers Pop Up + Fashion Show is an opportunity to demonstrate a brand’s global appeal and to offer a continued opportunity to interact and engage with our event’s Influencers, Designers, Stylists, Make-Up Artists, Photographers, Bloggers, Models, and Performers. As we evolve into a new world of interactive retail experiences and e-commerce, the Shop Local Designers Pop Up presents a new-age experience inviting brands to reach their consumers where they are, LIVE in New York City.

Featuring special guest and celebrity designer: Anthony Rubio. Anthony Rubio is an NYC native and pet couturier who stands for creating and innovating new concepts and techniques and is strictly couture. He is the first pet fashion designer to exhibit during a New York Fashion Week.

Shop Local Designers DJ's spinning the hottest beats & performances starting at 1PM on February 13th, 2021.

EVENT ITINERARY:

February 12th: Made In NYC Fashion Shows

1:00 - 8:00 PM

February 13th: Made in NYC Pop Up Shop

1:00 - 8:00 PM

Live Performances and Jam Session by:

Willard Morgan & Gideon Berger

Nkumu Katalay

Ryan Abrahams

Hoox & The Africanos

February 14th: PYNK NYFW: All Women Fashion Pop Up & Performances

1:00 - 8:00 PM

EVENT COLLABORATORS:

Saturday, February 13th, 2021,1-8 PM. Location is brought by Ideal Glass Studios above The Atrium. An artist-run production space conveniently in the heart of the west village of Manhattan.

Hosted by Find Your ID NYC & Livein Magazine in collaboration with Shop Local Designers. Shop Local Designers is the solution for designers to boost their brands. The platform allows users to search designer trends by city, providing a unique opportunity to explore new cultures, support local designers from around the world, and highlight global talents.

Special thanks to Nina Edwards for the poster provided! Her artwork can be found on her website.

COVID SAFETY MEASURES:

  • Masks are required at all times.

  • Social distancing is required. Please maintain 6 feet apart at all times.

  • We reserve the right to limit entry. Guests might have to wait for entry to limit the number of people entering, even if you have a ticket.

For more about the collective, please follow us:

@findyouridnyc

@shoplocaldesigners

@livein_magazine

Poster artwork by Nina Edwards @metropolitanmiss

 

A wool new world

 

By Bailey Roulo

In the world of fashion today, many people are turning to more sustainable ways to create clothing. Thrifting is very popular among younger generations, and fast fashion is growing more unpopular by the moment. New styles and clothing are still being developed, but it is taking a turn into a more ethical way of fashion. Wool is at the forefront of this change in the industry. There are so many perks to wool apparel that make it sustainable and ethical. Unlike synthetic material and cotton, wool last a good while longer than other materials. It is also so much better for the environment. Using wool, designers are reducing waste that would come from using different materials that contain products that are not natural.

The common misconception about wool is that it can be itchy. It depends on the yarn being used, but most apparel made from real and good wool will feel like a soft hug. One of the most popular and sustainable types of wool is merino wool. It gives room to breathe, making it the perfect kind of wool for all year round. It is also incredibly soft and comfortable on the skin. Another perk of wool apparel is it doesn’t wrinkle. That is perfect for people who are always on the go and do not have the time to iron out clothing. Just toss on that wool sweater, and you are good to go for the day. Not only is wool clothing incredibly comfortable, but the idea of sustainable clothing and products is just another upside of this material. Wool has been given a bad rap for being itchy, as we said earlier, and hot, but the modern wool apparel has changed the game. Keep an eye out for wool to keep growing in popularity. What is better than comfortable clothing that will last longer and reduce waste, effectively helping the planet in the process?

 

Concrete Jungle

 

By Joseph Ralph Fraia @jrfstudio – jrfstudio.com

New York City is changing. Once again. We don't know yet how the city will look six months or a year from now. But what we know is that The Big Apple will appear with the new skin, maybe a different look, but always with the same spirit.

New Yorkers know that the skill this city tests the most is survival, it has always been like this; this is a place that makes you dream big but also every day reminds you that nothing is handed to you, and you have to work hard and struggle through if you want to see those dreams be coming true. The fascination about New York is that it is the only place that turns chaos into originality, madness into creativity, struggle into ambition, and success into fame. In New York, you have to show your fangs and pull out your claws if you really want to make it, you have to channel your wild spirit and be brave, show your attitude, and not afraid to be who you really are. Like in a jungle. In this editorial, we wanted to show you the wild spirit of New York in the beautiful shape of Ingrid Gregus, masterfully portrayed by Charles Farrah with the creations of fashion designer and ‘Project Runway’ Winner Irina Shabayeva.

The background for this project is some of the most iconic spots in the East Village in Manhattan, one of the last most authentic historic neighborhoods on the island, where brownstones, graffiti, rusty fences, and a hipster and the vibrant community still gives you the vibes of the glamorous 70s, when Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Jimi Hendrix, and the Ramones used to hang out and perform in this area.

And you? Do you have what it takes to survive in this Concrete Jungle?

 

Location: East Village, NYC

Photographer: @cfaraphoto Charles Farrah

Designer: @irinashabayeva Irina Shabayeva

Hairdresser: @hairjess87 Jess Parol

MUA: @makeupbymara Mara

Model: @ingridgregus Ingrid Gregus

Street style in Times Square, NY

Street style in Times Square, NY

 
Setting trends in the NYC subway

Setting trends in the NYC subway

Princess in White: Eleonora Pellegrin

Princess in White: Eleonora Pellegrin

 
Coe Hall Estate

Coe Hall Estate

Theater District - NYC

Theater District - NYC

Angelina Kristic

Angelina Kristic

Swingin’ Era

Swingin’ Era

Timeless Style from the Roaring ‘20s

Timeless Style from the Roaring ‘20s