August 21, 2015

LEGACY LOUNGE ICONIC SUITE

LEGACY LOUNGE BRINGS SUITENESS TO ICONIC LEVELS AT THE LONDON WEST HOLLYWOOD
Los Angeles, CA – Steve Nguyen & Associates (“SNA”) will host their annual Legacy Lounge Iconic Suite 2015 presented by Roxx Vodka in honor of the Pre-MTV Video Music Awards on August 28th & 29th. The exclusive luxury suite will be held at the Kensington Ballroom of The London West Hollywood, from 11:00am – 6:00pm. SNA’s US and Global Team has hand selected the top leading brands and lifestyle products in apparel, accessories, cosmetics, high-end skincare, electronics, spirits, and food & beverages. The Legacy Lounge Iconic Suite will offer guests the opportunity to walk away with gifts and premium packages while providing on-site indulgences such as a beauty spa and treatments. Attendees will get to enjoy the experience of sensational food and signature cocktails from the TASTINGS 2015 International Review of Spirits, Gold Award winning spirits brand, Roxx Vodka. Tastings gave Roxx Vodka a score of 92 Points, reviewing it as “Exceptional”.

The London West Hollywood logo

The London West Hollywood logo

When Steve Nguyen, Founder of Steve Nguyen & Associates, launched his companies he set out to make a difference in the world. At this year’s suite, SNA will donate proceeds to a non-profit organization, It Gets Better Project. Additionally, the charity will be able to auction off a complete Steve Nguyen & Associates Legacy Lounge celebrity gift bag and the unique opportunity to connect with various celebrities in attendance.

“It has been a dream of mine to make a difference,” says Steve Nguyen, Chairman and CEO of Steve Nguyen & Associates, “and now my absolute pleasure to be donating $5,000 in event space and thousands of dollars in products and services to this life-changing charity to auction. I love a party with a purpose!”

Celebrities who visit SNA’s Legacy Lounge Iconic Suite will also have the opportunity to go home with an exclusive gift bag filled with the newest tech gadgets, ahead of market fashion accessories, health and fitness products, spirit(s) bottles, skincare lines, cosmetics, and other leading products.

SNA hosts three Legacy Lounge events annually in anticipation of major award shows in both film and music. Through our effective event-driven brand promotion, product placement and celebrity gifting event, the Legacy Lounge has successfully helped launch new brands, rehabilitate old products, and kept healthy brands ahead of the competition. The Legacy Lounge is a unique opportunity to network and forge personal connections with key talent and media to increase the brand awareness of a product and the company.

ABOUT STEVE NGUYEN & ASSOCIATES
Steve Nguyen & Associates (SNA) is an integrated 360° public relations, marketing, branded entertainment, prints & advertising, talent endorsements & seeding, and events & sponsorships media firm based in Beverly Hills, California. At its heart, SNA represents talent, major brands and film & television properties ranging from music artists, pro-athletes and motion picture film & television actors; to brands across fashion, beauty, skincare, fitness, retail, health, technology, and food & beverage. SNA develops comprehensive creative solutions to overcome complex marketing challenges by integrating trusted and proven methods with adaptive, emerging techniques: innovative entertainment hooks, special event planning, robust media planning, live performances, experiential messaging and lifestyle public relations. Connect with Steve Nguyen & Associates on Twitter @SNA_PR, Instagram @SNA_PR, Facebook Facebook.com/SNAPublicRelations. For more information on Steve Nguyen & Associates visit sna-pr.com.

ABOUT IT GETS BETTER PROJECT
Founded in 2010 by Dan Savage and Terry Miller, the It Gets Better Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that uses all forms of media and engagement to reach LGBT youth worldwide in order to provide critical support and hope that life indeed gets better. Through the organization’s messages of hope, international resources and guidance, collaboration and mouthpiece in the media, the It Gets Better Project strives to continuously make life better for LGBT youth. To date, more than 60,000 inspirational videos have been uploaded in support of It Gets Better and the LGBT community, including support from President Obama and 500,000 others who have actively taken the pledge to spread It Gets Better’s messages of hope and speak up against intolerance. The Project has expanded its support of LGBT youth on both a national and global scale, serving as a resource on policy and legal matters. The It Gets Better Project is resolute in its mission to make the lives of LGBT youth, simply put, better. Connect with the It Gets Better Project: @ItGetsBetter, Facebook.com/ItGetsBetterProject, YouTube.com/ItGetsBetterProject.

ABOUT ROXX VODKA
Roxx Vodka is the world’s finest ultra premium vodka. Roxx had chosen Poland to produce their vodka because of its tradition of more than five centuries of master distillers. Roxx then took their unrivaled recipe and sought after the most fertile, ecological regions of southern Poland to harvest their four special grains: wheat, barley, rye and triticale. The converging of mountain ranges of the southern regions of Poland is also where Roxx’s water source is derived. A filtration of reverse osmosis then subtracts any impurities the fresh spring water may contain. Roxx’s state of the art distillery then carefully forms each bottle of premium vodka.

Follow Roxx Vodka on Twitter @RoxxVodka, become a Roxx Vodka fan on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/smoothroxxvodka?fref=ts), follow Roxx Vodka on Instagram (instagram.com/roxxvodka). For more Roxx Vodka visit roxxvodka.com.

ABOUT THE LONDON WEST HOLLYWOOD
The London West Hollywood, a 226 open floor-plan suite hotel located at 1020 N. San Vicente Boulevard boasts the ideal location between the Hollywood Hills and Beverly Hills and captures the essence of both its namesake cities – worldly, sophisticated and with an incomparable energy. For more information on The London West Hollywood visit thelondonwesthollywood.com

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August 18, 2015

Life of a blogger: The Annie files

It’s an everyday question that I do find hard to answer at times..WHAT IS A BLOGGER? With so many different kinds of blogs and so many different experiences, I found it much easier to write it down and share mine with you. A little disclaimer: these are my personal experiences as a beauty/fashion blogger. Every blogger (mommy, teen, travel, beauty/fashion etc.) will all have different experiences on how they handle their blogs, events & more. Also, want to thank my dear friend and former educator Janice Case for inspiring me to write this blog, “Life of a Blogger”.

6 years ago I really had no idea what a blogger was. I had heard of them but just didn’t understand them at all. I also didn’t know that there was more than just one type of blogger. When I met Lisa and she asked me to be one for Its A Glam Thing, I was a recent beauty school graduate but wanted to do so much more within the industry. I always had a passion for the industry and was determined to go far, no matter the cost. My first month with IAGT, I just thought it was write a couple blogs and everyone would know who I was. Boy was I WRONG!!! Everyday was a new experience. Learning the right way to promote your blog, the product and even find just the right thing to say, the behind the scenes to do list is never ending and always learning. To this day I am learning new things on promotions, and that no matter how long I’ve been doing don’t be afraid to ask questions, or even spend a little money to get even more.

New IAGT logo

New IAGT logo

Many have asked “do you just sit at home” & “is it a job”. Answers: yes/no, no, & above all yes it is 100% all day everyday, fulltime job. Even though I work from home and do sit at a desk I am researching, trying out products, looking up events to hopefully attend, following up & writing, writing, writing. “Is it a job”? Yes 100%! Even though it may be a part time gig or hobby, its a full time job just with promotions, researching, attending events and trade shows. Your always on the go, even though you may physically not be moving. Your mind works all the time, your body does get tired and sometimes all you want to do is goof off. It’s all about self starting , just like with many careers. I also want you to know that no matter what I never believe that anyone owes me anything. Just having the opportunities to attend shows, meet new up & coming stylist, designers, bloggers etc. That is why I love what I do.

My most favorite thing about blogging is not the products or even the interviews, its more the people I have met, inspiring others and helping others find just the right product for them. It is true, even though this industry is my number 1 passion, I do not wear makeup every single day, most of the time I wear yoga pants and on a cold day am wearing a bath robe. Just knowing my writing has made someone’s day, or maybe even inspired someone; that to me makes it all worth while. So I encourage you… if you love writing, have a desire to learn and work hard stat your very own. You may not get much at first, but hard work will pay off & never let your ego get bigger than your passion. Happy writing my friends!

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August 18, 2015

Sheryl Lee Ralph on the cover of SHEEN Magazine

The dynamic and vivacious SHERYL LEE RALPH graces the Cover of SHEEN MAGAZINE on the exclusive 2015 September/October edition, TIMELESS BEAUTY ISSUE.

August 6, 2015 -The legendary actress, SHERYL LEE RALPH is the standard for what a classy, timeless woman embodies. Sheryl has been on the acting scene since she was a very young woman and later blossomed into the original Dreamgirl “Deena Jones” on Broadway. Many know Sheryl as “Dee,” our favorite step mother on Moesha, or as “Maggie Turner” on Nickelodeon’s Instant Mom. The multitalented actress lives by the acronym D.I.V.A– Divinely, Inspired, Victoriously, Alive. Are you a D.I.V.A.?

Front cover of Sheen Magazine

Front cover of Sheen Magazine

Following Sheryl’s lead, we trace the everlasting elegance of women over the years including Eartha Kitt, Pam Grier and more. Celebrity makeup artist, Renny Vasquez, who has “beat” the faces of Queen Latifah and Gabrielle Union, gives us his insight on fall makeup trends. With cool weather approaching, keeping your skin and lips hydrated is a must! We have the best lip exfoliates and beauty secrets you need in your beauty arsenal! Also, Dr. Paul Nassif from Botched on E! explains the enticing world of extreme plastic surgery. Do you need “tress relief?” SHEEN answers your hair questions! Queen of Color and Cuts, Cynthia Meadows, gives us tips about keeping hair healthy in living color. Hairstylist Highlight, Gocha Hawkins, takes center stage on her new role on LA Hair.

Let’s dish! Lifestyle blogger and journalist Tami Reed talks blogging and Stylist Ayanna J talks how social media landed her the job of her dreams. VH1’s Love and Hip Hop Atlanta star Erica Dixon balances business and pleasure. Featured Mandate, Tank, tells us how he becomes the ultimate tempter on TV One’s Born Again Virgin. Wendy Raquel Robinson channels her inner Tasha Mack. Karen Clark Sheard speaks on her legacy while #ILoveMyPastor contest winner, Dr. Joseph L. Williams, shares his spiritual journey.

Read all about it! SHEEN MAGAZINE’s September/October “Timeless Beauty” issue on stands August 28, 2015.

 

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August 18, 2015

Gerard Cosmetics gives back

Gerard Cosmetics News: Giving Back To The Community on September 11th

Gerard Cosmetics Logo

Gerard Cosmetics Logo

(Los Angeles, CA) Santa Clarita, California based Gerard Cosmetics has announced their participation in 9/11: Day of Service & Remembrance. The special event is being produced by HandsOn Santa Clarita, a local nonprofit providing support and resources for connecting nonprofit organizations with volunteers, groups and businesses to meet the needs of the community.

According to the HandsOn Santa Clarita website, 9/11: Day of Service & Remembrance “Will honor those who fell victim to September 11th and praise the heroic efforts of our military. By participating in HandsOn Santa Clarita’s 9/11 Day of Service & Remembrance individuals can forever remember and pay tribute to the victims of September 11th and honor those who rose in service in response to the attacks. As a way to show support and gratitude, we ask that you help us serve those who serve us.”

Jennifer Gerard, Gerard Cosmetics President and CEO is proud to be a financial sponsor of this event. “We at Gerard Cosmetics are proud of Santa Clarita and are blessed to be able to give back to this community we call home. The work of HandsOn Santa Clarita is invaluable to our area and we appreciate the opportunity to join them in saluting and remembering our 9/11 heroes and victims. I encourage everyone to go to www.handsonscv.org to get involved.”

About Gerard Cosmetics: Gerard Cosmetics creates and sells high end, innovative and quality cosmetics for the beauty conscious woman. Some of Gerard Cosmetics most popular products are the Color Your Smile Lighted Lip Gloss, Brow Bar To Go, BB Crème Plus Illumination, Hydra Matte Lipstick and Lipstick. All of the products under the Gerard Cosmetics label are made in the USA.

For more information about Gerard Cosmetics go to www.GerardCosmetics.com!

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August 18, 2015

new clothes that show the world, you would rather be with your dog

Would you rather be with your dog? Now you can let the world know! “I’d Rather Be With My Dog”: A new line of clothing and accessories. A portion of the proceeds helps animal rescues and shelters.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA– (August 17, 2015) – There are millions of people who would rather be with their dog than with other people or doing other activities. Now, they can proudly let the world know that while making a fashion statement at the same time. The company I’d Rather Be With My Dog has a line of clothing and accessories bearing its name, giving pet lovers the opportunity to let people know how they really feel.

I'd rather be with my dog clothing logo

I’d rather be with my dog clothing logo

“Many of us would rather be with our dog, so why not make it part of our dress and let the world know?” asks Doug Ratner, founder of I’d Rather Be with My Dog and a musician. “People love the idea of being with their dog and in letting others know they would rather be with the dog. It’s a great thing and a win-win situation for all.”

The company donates 10 percent of all proceeds to animal rescues and shelters, giving people a chance to save dogs and cats while they also show their pride. The popular paw print design is currently being test marketed at Macy’s in Chicago. The full line of I’d Rather Be With My Dog clothing and accessories is available at the company website, which provides free shipping for all US orders. They also offer special deals for those looking for clothing and accessories, as well as the company’s famous dog treats.

I’d Rather Be With My Dog also created the first-ever Paleo dog treat, offering consumers a healthier way to feed their pets. The Paleo dog treats offer them something closer to what their ancestors would have eaten, avoiding the over-processed options that dominate today’s market.

Those looking to show people that they prefer to be with their dog will find that the company offers tank tops, V-neck shirts, crew neck shirts, yoga pants, hoodies, phone cases, mousepads, magnets, bumper stickers, and beer koozies. There are also products available that say “I’d Rather Be With My Cat,” for those who prefer to share their love of the feline.

“Not only are these fun things to wear and accessories to use, but they make great gifts for someone who is an animal lover,” added Ratner. “It not only makes people laugh to read the message, but it also shows people that you are someone who really cares about your pet.”

I’d Rather Be with My Dog is a lifestyle company that got its name when Ratner was writing a song one evening. Going through girl problems, and seeing his dog nearby, he realized he would rather be with his dog. He is passionate about providing dogs with healthy Paleo treats and sharing I’d Rather Be with My Dog clothing with others who are passionate about their dogs. Ratner is also a musician who is the guitarist and vocalist for the band Doug Ratner and the Watchmen.

The I’d Rather Be with My Dog Paleo treats are made in the USA, are grain- and gluten-free, and also do not contain soy, dairy, or corn. Every flavor does contain coconut oil. Flavors include Duck Bites, Venison Bites, Salmon Bites, and diet restricted Paleo treats, including joint health, skin and coat health, digestive health, and more. The clothing and accessory line is available at the one-stop online retail store. For more information, visit the site at: www.idratherbewithmydog.net.

About I’d Rather Be with My Dog

Based in Atlanta, Georgia, I’d Rather Be with My Dog is a company that was started by a musician whose album is available on iTunes. The company name came from a song he was writing, and it flourished from there. The company has the first Paleo dog treat on the market. The product line offers a variety of flavors. I’d Rather Be with My Dog also has a line of clothing, all for those who are passionate about their dogs. For more information, visit the site at: www.idratherbewithmydog.net.

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August 17, 2015

Orlando kicks it off…The RIGHT way

A 3 day epic event took place in Orlando this past week at The Battersby Art Gallery. Orlando Fashion Week kicked off on August 13 with makeup, models, hair and can’t forget…CLOTHES! I was able to nab front row seats to this runway show (opening night) and get to see up close the beautiful fashions grace nthe runway. It was an amazing display of just how well the right makeup/hair, the right model and an outfit go hand in hand. This first night featured designers Vanessa Shelly, Senia Soto, Fabiola Moreno, Jacquelyn Brooks & Hadascha Brutus, plus hair & makeup by the Florida Technical College Cosmetology Students.

Jarix Fashions at Orlando Fashion Week

Jarix Fashions at Orlando Fashion Week

I joined the before show fitting back stage and saw some familiar faces & met some new ones. Designer Senia Soto of Jarix Fashions is a good friend of mine whom I had met last year was showcasing her new line and met blogger/cosmetology student Pedro Y Neives a.k.a Yazer of http://yazersthoughts.com/ As you can tell from my photos it was an awesome night and definitely needed those other 2 nights 🙂 Its hard to fit all that greatness into one night.

Strawberry Blonde Clothing by Jacquelyn Brooks at OFW

Strawberry Blonde Clothing by Jacquelyn Brooks at OFW

Speaking of those 2 other nights, the show started out on August 14 for round 2 with opening entertainment Katherin Pena and designers Claudia Gutierrez, Joseph Lago, Gloria Woods and Jacquelyn Brooks. Since I was not there that night, photos on FaceBook said it all. Night 3 started off and ended with a bang featruing celebrity artist Jacqueline Valdez (remember her from VIP 😉 and designers Jacquelyn Brooks, Joseph Lago, Sonja Hendricks, Fabiola Moreno & Peter Morales.

More Fashions from Orlando Fashion Week

More Fashions from Orlando Fashion Week

I have been to many fashions shows but never one as up beat as this one. This is a definite must go to show if you are ever in Orlando at the time. Also, its a great opportunity for all designers, & models to showcase their talents to the right buyers. It also gave the students from the Florida technical College a taste that there really is more than just “behind the chair” work. Check out www.orlandofashionweekcorp.com for even more information on designers and more!

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August 17, 2015

How to: Get Bethany Mota’s red carpet look with AVON

How to get Bethany Mota’s red carpet look at the 2015 Teen Choice Awards. Celebrity makeup artist Lauren Andersen gave Bethany bronzed, glowing skin and a stunning smoke eye.

How to get Bethany Mota’s red carpet look

How to get Bethany Mota’s red carpet look

Lauren’s Inspiration: Fun, fresh and radiant.

Face: I started by prepping Bethany’s skin with By Terry Foundation in Matte Finish and applied Hourglass Ambient Bronzer in Radiant Bronze Light and Chanel Narcisse Blush. I also applied Laura Mercier Illuminating Powder on the cheeks for added glow.

Lip: We wanted to keep Bethany’s look natural, so I used Avon Ultra Color Indulgence Lip Color in In Bloom for the perfect neutral hue.

Eye: To create Bethany’s smoky eye look, I used Avon True Color Eye Shadow Quad in Mocha Late and Avon Always On Point Eye Liner in Brown on the upper outer lash line as well as smudged on the lower lash line. To finish the look I applied several coats of Avon Big & Daring Volume Mascara in Black to the lashes.

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August 17, 2015

Duck Dynasty & Dr. Sun Cosmetics introduce new fragrance “Lifted”

Beauty aficionados have come to know and love the Dr. Sun Cosmetics line endorsed by Jessica Robertson of A&E’s “Duck Dynasty” – and I’m thrilled to share that they will expand the collection with the release of a new perfume just in time for the holiday season. As the latest addition to the existing collection of bronzers, moisturizers, lip glosses, and sunglasses endorsed by Jessica Robertson, the new perfume, Lifted, is set to launch just in time for you to gift your mom, wife, girlfriend or any woman for the holidays!

Duck Dynasty's Jessica Robertson

Duck Dynasty’s Jessica Robertson

It is said that memory and smell are closely intertwined, and just like that, Lifted will make the special women in your life simply unforgettable. Lifted is a perfect harmony between sparkling orange blossom and fresh, spicy notes of ginger and sandalwood as it is balanced by sweet hints of jasmine. With an uplifting yet sensual trail, she will be unforgettable long after she leaves the room. Lifted restores the soul, heightens the senses and intensifies the irresistibility of any woman. Turn a dull day bright by letting Lifted illuminate your loved one’s natural beauty!

Jessica Robertson Lifted Fragrance

Jessica Robertson Lifted Fragrance

This holiday season, give the incredible women in your life something as beautiful as they are. This new perfume by Dr. Sun Cosmetics and endorsed by Jessica Robertson is the gift you’ve been looking for. As captivating as its scent, Lifted’s crystal-shaped bottle is so exquisite that she’ll want to keep it on display! The packaging continues to stun with pink details such as an elegant atomizer and wing charm adorning the bottle. Whether the wearer or the ones surrounding her, Lifted will take everyone’s breath away.

Jessica Robertson Lifted fragrance

Jessica Robertson Lifted fragrance

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August 15, 2015

From Kim K. West to Elizabeth Taylor’s Cleopatra

Pat McGrath Transforms Kim Kardashian West into

Elizabeth Taylor’s Cleopatra for The Violet Files

Today, (8/12/15), on the latest cover of The Violet Files, the editorial site of Hollywood insider and beauty guru Cassandra Grey, Kim Kardashian West is transformed into the iconic Elizabeth Taylor in Cleopatra through the artistry and makeup design by Pat McGrath.

“I would have done anything—I would have trusted Pat’s vision no matter what she wanted—but I was really excited that it was the Cleopatra vibe,” says Kim Kardashian West of the collaboration with makeup artist Pat McGrath.

Kim K. West as Elizabeth Taylor's famous Cleopatra

Kim K. West as Elizabeth Taylor’s famous Cleopatra

“Elizabeth Taylor’s makeup in Cleopatra has been re-created countless times, but for Kim I wanted to create an interpretation that has never been done before, a futuristic 3D version,” Ms. McGrath explains. “I wanted to portray a luxurious decadence by using elements of ornate facial jewelry constructed into shapes that pay homage to Egyptian culture, and of course to the rich exotic character that Taylor portrayed in this role.”

“Her eyeshadow was made from ground lapis stone and gold pyrite flecks,” notes Ms. McGrath. “Incorporating three-dimensional gold metal into the makeup design explores the concept of makeup as jewelry. I wanted the images to be luxurious, evoking a modern take on the opulence associated with Cleopatra’s makeup.”

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August 14, 2015

Teen celebrity gifting from Hollywood Swag Bag

Hollywood Swag Bag Teen Celebrity Gifting

Hollywood Swag Bag Teen Celebrity Gifting

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