insider
JULY/AUGUST 2024
THE SUMMER ISSUE
at the jersey shore with
teresa giudice
SOCIAL MEDIA SPOTLIGHT OLIVIA CULPO
FAN FAVORITE VASSY
insider
106 W 32nd Street Floor 2 New York, New York 10001
CEO, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF + CREATIVE DIRECTION
VANESSA COPPES
BellaMedia.co/Bella-insider Admin@BellaMedia.co @BellaMediaCo
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
PHOTOGRAPHER
JENNIFER MACLELLAN
MICHELLE BEHRE
PUBLISHER
JONATHAN CALIXTO
VIDEOGRAPHER
MIGUEL PICHARDO STYLISTS
MINDY GURA PAULA ORLAN
Contributors DANIELA URIBE
GRACE KATICH
M. ROMAN
MINDY GURA + PAULA ORLAN
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contents
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Beauty Secrets
Oshin Oil, Hi Beautiful You, Purdori, Aion Aesthetics
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Fan Favorites VASSY
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Fashion Forward Mrs Momma Bear Workwear: Summer carry-on staples Cover look for less
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Iconic Reality TV Moments
Table flips, “Scandoval,” + American Idol auditions
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Lifestyle + Home
Loews Miami Beach Hotel
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Social Media Spotlight
Olivia Culpo’s Montce Swim Collaboration
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Cover Story
The Queen of Summer: Teresa Giudice
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Work + Entrepreneurship Unveiling the Business Empires of Favorite Reality TV Stars
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Social Scene
BELLA Magazine’s 2024 Beauty Lounge, Beauty Awards Ceremony + Beauty Issue Cover Party with Laura Geller, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show, Miami Swim Week The Shows, Tara Ink. Swim5 Week Oasis 2024
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE BEHRE
Letter from the editor-in-chief
As the warm sun graces our days and we revel in the vibrancy of summer, I can't think of anyone more fitting to grace our cover + celebrate summer with than the remarkable Teresa Giudice.
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Teresa’s journey, much like the summer, is a testament to resilience, transformation, and embracing one’s inner strength—elements that are the very essence of what we at BELLA stand for. From her time as a beloved reality TV star to her roles as a dedicated mother and entrepreneur, Teresa embodies courage and reinvention in ways that are both relatable and inspiring.
But Teresa’s feature is just the beginning of what is in store in this issue. Our summer edition is brimming with the latest in fashion trends, beauty secrets, and wellness tips to keep you glowing inside and out. Whether you’re planning a tropical getaway or a cozy staycation, we’ve got the ultimate guides to making this summer unforgettable.
From glamorous swimwear to refreshing skincare rituals, and fabulous travel destinations, every page is crafted with your summer needs in mind. At BELLA, we’re committed to pushing content boundaries to reflect the beauty and strength of our readers. My vision for this magazine extends beyond glossy pages; it’s about creating a community that fosters growth, celebrates achievements, and supports one another—no matter where you are in your journey. I invite you to dive into our summer edition, embrace your life, + shine as the incredible person you are. Here’s to sun-filled days, inspirational stories, and a summer where we all flourish together.
Vanessa Coppes
CEO OF BELLA MEDIA + CO. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF BELLA MAGAZINE, BELLA LATINA MAGAZINE, BELLA INSIDER, BELLA AROUND TOWN
THE BELLA INSIDER TEAM BTS WITH COVER STAR TERESA GIUDICE
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A HEALTHY TAN STARTS WITH YOU. HiBeautifulYou.com
@HiBeautifulYou
PURDORI
Clean Beauty Brand Means "a pure gift" The core ingredient of Purdori’s clean RO-ICE+™ product line is a breakthrough combination of natural Ice Plant Extract, Rose Water and Aloe Vera. @Purdori.USA Purdori.com
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fan favorite
VASSY
By Grace Katich Photography by Davide Micciulla 13
VASSY, Queen of EDM on becoming a dance-pop sensation + her new single "Midnight
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ith eight No. 1 Billboard singles and 17 platinum certifications, VASSY has earned the title of the “Queen of EDM.” The Australian artist, songwriter, and producer has one of the most authentic female voices in dance music, described by Billboard as a “music icon with the most unique voice.”
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Her silky-smooth voice and discography have made the star the first woman to win the EDMA Icon Award. VASSY’s music has been featured across cinematography, from Disney’s Frozen and Netflix’s Selling Sunset to Victoria’s Secret and Nike Campaigns.
The EDM queen has also been recognized as an ally and advocate in the LGBTQ+ community as she has backed multiple charities. VASSY has taken a pivotal transition in her career as she releases her new single “Midnight” produced with EDM duo Punctual.
“It may be a boys club, but it’s a woman’s world.” - Vassy Tell us about your songwriting process. Do you have certain rituals or routines you implement in your creative process?
Playing with dynamic and irresistible sounds, VASSY keeps her competitive edge in the industry with this new hit. BELLA insider spoke to VASSY to learn more about her new single and how she has earned her reputation in the dance music scene. When did your love of the dance music scene develop? I have always loved dance music, but it was never my intention to make it in the dance world. I simply loved making music and writing songs, and then my music took off in the dance space. That was the end of that (laughs) and from there on I had no choice but to continue to create dance records for my fans.
Your previous records such as “Bad” and “Secrets” have featured the likes of David Guetta and Tiësto, while also becoming platinum hits and recognized on popular reality TV shows, such as "Selling Sunset.” How does your new record “Midnight,” produced by Punctual, differ from your previous hits? MIDNIGHT is a much lusher and pop-leaning record with almost a new disco vibe to it very different from my global EDM hits BAD or SECRETS. It focuses more on my voice and really tells a story, taking my fans through a journey of fantasy and expression of freedom.
I need to be inspired to come up with an idea, perhaps a tag line first the hook of the song essentially and once I have that I start to mold the melody of the hook which is the heart of the song the chorus as we call it. From there I flesh out the narrative and tell a story while I think about production and what sound I want for my song. EDM is stereotypically pioneered by male artists. As a female singersongwriter, how do you trailblaze in a primarily male-dominated music genre? It is indeed, but I always say, “It may be a boys’ club, but it’s a woman’s world.” As the first woman to win the EDMA ICON Award, I hold that with honor and am proud to represent women in this very DJdriven genre.
I have always been authentic to who I am, and it has served me well to be true to my artistry. I'm happy with where I am today as an artist, leading this space and inspiring many other female artists to follow my lead. I grew up in a remote part of Australia and moved to America to pursue my dreams. Recently awarded The Billions List Award for my song “BAD” surpassing the twobillion streams milestone, I encourage female artists to never stop believing in themselves and to remember that rejections are simply redirections. What do you see for the future of the EDM dance music scene? What I would like to see is more artistry, less DJ’ing, and more incredible artists who are pioneers and who opened the door for artists like me – legends like Crystal Waters. I just feel there needs to be a shift, so more focus is put on singers and artists, as it was back in the 90s and early 2000’s.
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What can readers and fans expect from you in the future? More VASSY music - both dance hits and stripped-down acoustic renditions of my dance releases. I just want to create more music and I would like to do more in the fashion space. It is such an artistic expression to play with outfits on stage and in my videos, I love the whole process. My glam team is amazing, and we always work on mood boards to do different, fresh themes for each song and each release. My video director, and choreographer, is also amazing and very fashion and beauty forward, so my videos always tend to have elements of dance and movement.
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mrs momma bear workwear
THE PERFECT CARRY-ON STAPLE FOR ALL YOUR SUMMER TRAVEL By Jennifer MacLellan Photography by Italia Grosso + Lee Evans Lee
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Introducing Mrs. Momma Bear Workwear's chic collection of suits and jumpsuits designed for the modern woman on the go.
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s the summer season beckons travelers far and wide, the dread of packing is alleviated by the convenience and style of this versatile line. Offering easy-topack, wrinkle-resistant pieces, Mrs. Momma Bear Workwear simplifies wardrobe planning for the jetsetting fashionista.
Each garment is crafted to be washed in cold water, ensuring longevity and ease of care. With the ability to fit five pieces in a single carryon, there's ample space for your favorite footwear options, be it platforms, heels, or sneakers – all effortlessly paired with MMB's sophisticated designs.
Mrs Momma Bear Workwear is perfect for travel and fitting an entire trip’s wardrobe into one carry-on. Was that an intention when creating the line? Yes! Travel is such a huge part of my life, so it was at the front of my mind when creating the line. 19
“Travel is such a huge part of my life, so it was front of mind when creating the line.” -Lee Evans Lee I wanted something that I could travel comfortably in even on crazy long travel days, but still make me feel stylish and sexy. MMB is so insanely comfortable, but you still walk off the plane looking flawless and ready to take on your adventure without having to change! One of my favorite aspects of MMB, especially when it comes to traveling, is the material. Can you share why the composition makes it so stress-free? The entire collection is made of an athletic fabric that is my own unique blend. It’s so buttery soft, insanely stretchy, and wicks just like your favorite workout set. At the same time all my pants are lined with the same amazing fabric, and I designed everything to hug you just right, so you never have to worry - no shapewear necessary! 20
Material aside, MMB is essentially a complete look in one, while also being easy to mix and match. What are a few of your favorite staple pieces when packing? Honestly, I have traveled multiple times with every single piece from the line, I love to wear it all! But one thing that you will always see in my suitcase that I love to mix and match would be my BLAZERS. They just elevate any outfit, whether it’s pairing with a casual look to take it up a notch or to throw over my shoulders for more formal occasions. You’ll also always see me on a plane in one of my jumpsuits. They just make life so easy when traveling and I can walk off the plane into a meeting knowing I look and feel amazing.
Your sets and suits are also perfect for styling with statement pieces perhaps what you picked up locally on your travels! What are some of your favorite accessories to pair with your line? I have so many!! But a few of my favorites that I love to pair with MMB often are: My favorite Rianna and Nina Kimono from Paris. Balmain Blazers and Jackets (Of course!) Gucci cardigan, bags, hats, and other accessories - Love all things GUCCI! Nick Fouquet Hats I’m a Texas girl, so I’ve got to have my hats! Chloe and Prada Platform Tennis Shoes or Vans Platform Slip-ons. My Valley Eyewear Their glasses are so fun and unique. Swarovski Earrings for a little sparkle!
Check out my Instagram page (@leeevanslee) to see how I love to style my MMB - I always tag all my accessories for each of my looks! The moisture wicking feature of your designs also makes it vacation friendly for any climate. From Aspen to Miami, what makes MMB so ideal for various temps? Like I’ve mentioned before, I’m a Texas girl. It’s hot for most of the year here so I had to make sure my designs were something I could really wear no matter what the weather is like. Thanks to my blend of fabric, you can wear any of the pieces and feel amazing from 100 Degree days in West TX to the Crazy humidity in Miami. Then, during my snowy winters in Aspen I throw on my favorite Max Mara coat and I’m ready to go! Can you share any new design ideas for your upcoming line? There are definitely a lot of surprises in the works for the new collection that I don’t want to spill just yet… but… I will say there might be some MMB Dresses coming your way! For all things MMB, visit MrsMommaBear.com and follow along @MrsMommaBearWorkWear.
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fashion F orward
Snag our cover look with RHONJ Teresa Giudice for less!
By The Style Duo, Mindy Gura + Paula Orlan
Summer 2024 is the time to express oneself in dopamine colors and bold aesthetics! So when we were asked to style Teresa Giudice, the stunning star from The Real Housewives of New Jersey, we knew that this vibrant lime green cutout creation with a high slit from Marc Bouwer’s collection would be perfect.
Set against a tropical backdrop, we paired the gown with satin-like fuchsia sandals from Betsey Johnson and the look was head to toe fabulousness! To embrace this look for less, we found some fun options for you to try so you too can embrace the season with a sophisticated edge for any summer soirée!
Esmarelda Gown, $120, HouseOfHadiyah.com Go On 2 Dress Sandal, $59.99, ChineseLaundry.com
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Iconic Reality TV Moments: Test Your Knowledge By Jonathan Calixto
Teresa Guidice Table Flip
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rom table flips to notorious one-liners, reality television has given us moments that will live on forever. It has also plucked people from their traditional lives and made them mainstream through viral video clips, memes, and gifs we now use when texting our besties. Think you know reality tv?
In just the first season of the Real Housewives of New Jersey, Teresa Guidice made a stand-out appearance, but it was this iconic season finale moment that would cement her as a housewife all-star. The episode titled, “The Last Supper,” rightfully so, featured the cast having dinner at a restaurant, when things took a heated turn between Guidice and cast member, Daniella Staub. At the dinner table, when Staub brings up a book about her past,
Teresa’s anger reaches a boiling point as she stands up and slams her hands on the table, shouting, "You were engaged 19 times?!" This was in response to a claim about Danielle's relationship history. As the argument escalated, Teresa’s frustration became palpable. She then famously flipped the dinner table, sending plates, food, and drinks crashing to the floor. 15 years later the moment still lives being recreated as halloween costumes, used as gifs, and quoted at many dinner tables 25 table flips excluded.
Can you remember these iconic moments? “Scandoval” Whether you are a reality tv buff or not, you could not avoid the buzz of “Scandoval.” The New York Times even called it, “the biggest reality tv story of 2023.” In season 10 episode 15 of Bravo’s hit-series, Vanderpump Rules, the cameras are picked up after Ariana Madix finds out her boyfriend of nearly a decade, Tom Sandoval has cheated on her with a close friend, Rachel Leviss. Once the episode aired, the news spread like wildfire and the aftermath was both horrifying as fans took to social media to bash Tom and Rachel, but also gave new found fame to Ariana. She would go on to participate in Dancing With The Stars, and land a role on Broadway’s Chicago. The buzz also landed the show Vanderpump Rules, its first Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Unstructured Reality TV Program. Highlighting the show's significant impact and popularity in the realm of reality television. 26
William Hung Auditions for American Idol If you have made it this far, then you are iconic yourself! This last moment aired in January 2004 and 20 years later, it still comes up as the second most popular gif when you search “American Idol.” In season 3 of American Idol, a charismatic William Hung auditioned with an offkey rendition of Ricky Martin's "She Bangs”, featuring his side to side sway and energetic smile. While he didn’t make the cut to the next round, he became an instant fan-favorite and a symbol for how unpredictable the auditions could be. Fast forward to 2024, Hung is 41 years-old and recently shared he is getting ready to return to his job as a crime analyst for the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. His appearance on reality TV was not over just yet, making an appearance on the Prime series The Goat which aired this year.
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Loews
Miami Beach
By Jonathan Calixto
Lifestyle + Home featuring 790 guestrooms and 69 suites offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, the sparkling cityscape, or the hotel’s lush grounds.
Hotel 25
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For more, visit LoewsHotels.com/Miami-Beach
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Enjoy an authentically local, cosmopolitan hotel experience. RAO’S MIAMI BEACH
AMENITIES
Located in the heart of South Beach, just steps from the ocean, Loews Miami Beach Hotel is the experience giving you a summer to remember. Offering an extraordinary blend of luxury, comfort, and style for a solo retreat, couple’s getaway, or a family vacation. Whether you want to spend the day in the sun, check out their on-site programs like Summerfest, or get some massages at the hotel’s spa, the options for relaxation and re creation are endless. The hotel features 790 guestrooms and 69 suites offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, the sparkling cityscape, or the hotel’s lush grounds.
One of the things that makes Loews Miami Beach Hotel a special destination for your next trip is the range of amenities to fit a traveler's need. Starting with inside the hotel, Sea Spa features treatments from licensed aestheticians, nail technicians, massage therapists, hair stylists, and fitness instructors. Making your way outside to the palm trees and paradise? No problem. Loews can help set you up with cabanas and beach umbrellas to enjoy some time on the sand, or get out on the water with activities that include kayaks, paddleboards, and boogie boards. For families looking to enjoy the beach, there is also a private play area for kids.
After you have played or relaxed, Loews makes dining in a luxurious experience bringing a classic restaurant to their beachy grounds. With a history dating back 127 years, the iconic Rao’s now has its second location in the heart of South Beach. Located at Loews Miami Beach you don’t have to go far to take a bite of culinary history. The legendary restaurant is known for its authentic, southern Neapolitan Italian cooking and home-style family ambiance. As guests take a culinary adventure through the menu you can’t miss the rituals Vincent Rao and Anne Pellegrino have passed on for generations. Simplicity and tradition are at the core of every dish that exits Rao’s kitchen. From classic plates like the traditional ground beef meatballs in Italian bread crumbs topped with Rao’s famous marinara sauce, to new dishes inspired by the spirit of Miami Beach.
Including a fresh seafood tower stacked with oysters, shrimp, lobster, clam, stone crab, paired with some staple sauces from Italian Chimichurri to mignonette and cocktail sauce. Now that you’ve taken a bite of history, quench your thirst with exquisite cocktails. You can’t go wrong with some of the staples from Vulcania - a gin option, Rex - a rum blend, or Saturnia - a bourbon whiskey drink. The drink selections also include wine, beer, and zero proof options. Immerse yourself in the luxurious red and white decor whether you want to dine in Rao’s Room or dine outside, just make sure to make a reservation ahead of time as dates fill up quickly. From year-round curated family programming, to the resort’s expansive pool deck with private SOAK Cabanas and the culinary excellence found at the restaurants and lounges, guests can enjoy an authentically local, cosmopolitan hotel experience that can only be found at Loews Miami Beach.
For more, visit LoewsHotels.com/Miami-Beach
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olivia C ulpo By Jennifer MacLellan
Olivia Culpo’s swimsuit capsule with Montce swimwear is the collaboration of the summer Miami based Swimwear Brand, Montce has launched an exclusively designed capsule collection with actress, model, and entrepreneur Olivia Culpo. From Miss Universe to social media maven, Olivia has used her platform to catapult her career in fashion, content creation, and beauty to collaborate with some of the industry’s biggest brands. Incorporating Culpo’s allAmerican, clean, classic aesthetic, the new Montce x Olivia Culpo ‘24 Collection delivers an all-around go-to capsule of timeless summer essentials, that easily work into any current wardrobe.
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Being the first collaboration for the brand, Montce felt it was important to work with someone who shared a history and connection with the brand. Olivia Culpo was the natural first choice as she has sported their swimsuits for many years, going back to one of the brands first viral social media moments of her wearing their Gingham Cabana Set on the beach in 2017.
“Olivia is a beauty with a timeless aesthetic, and an American icon – so the color story plays off those aspects of her and her personal style, and gently mimics the Black and White Gingham look she wore originally. This collection just felt right,” says Alexandra Grief, Montce Founder and Designer. The capsule features a range of key pieces from swimwear to slip dresses, micro and tennis skirts, button downs and retro corset tops.
The collection takes the wearer from chic to sporty and even includes a play on the Canadian tuxedo perfect for the festival season. Everything is versatile enough to be styled more than one way, making it individual to the wearer. “As a longtime fan of the brand, I could not be more excited to be launching my first-ever swimwear capsule collection with Montce,” says Olivia Culpo,
“Together we have created a beautiful collection that puts a playful twist on classic swim styles and perfectly encapsulates my personal style throughout.” A South Florida native, Alexandra Grief used her creativity and ingenuity to turn her side hustle into an international brand. She started making swimwear in 2009 from her Fort Lauderdale apartment, and in 2013 opened the first Montce store. Today, in addition to the Fort Lauderdale location, there's a new Montce store Miami Design District location, plus it's sold at over 70 stockists worldwide. In addition to Olivia, Montce has been worn by celebrities including Kendall Jenner, Priyanka Chopra, Chrissy Teigen, Jennifer Lopez, and Emily Ratajkowski.
Olivia’s social media following and genuine impact on her followers only helps to complement Montce's formula for success quality fabrics, nostalgic prints, and advanced construction details making each bikini stand out. Both flattering and comfortable, Montce’s effortless blend of style and substance, combined with an obsessive focus on fit, is what sets Montce apart — and why their followers are fans. For more information + to shop the new collection, follow Olivia @oliviaculpo + Montce @montce_swim. Photo credit: Montce
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M A G A Z I N E
insider AROUND TOWN
Present BELLA Bosses Connect
HOLLYWOOD NETWORK. EXPAND. GROW.
AUGUST 15, 2024 11AM-2PM RSVP TO ADMIN@BELLAMEDIA.CO THE GODFREY HOTEL 1400 CAHUENGA BLVD. LOS ANGELES, CA 90028
L A T I N A
Dress: Marc Bouwer Earrings: Alexis Bittar Jaguar Ring: Erin Fader Jewelry Shoes: Betsy Johnson
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The Queen of Summer TERESA GIUDICE Creative Direction by Vanessa Coppes Interview by M. Roman Editorial Assistance by Jennifer MacLellan Photography by Michelle Behre Videography by Miguel Pichardo Hair + Makeup by Lucia Casazza Styling by Mindy Gura + Paula Orlan, The Style Duo Photoshoot Assistance by Dr. James Mercer, Sara Paige Location: The Whitechapel Project in Long Branch, NJ
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Dress: One33 Social, Neiman Marcus Paramus Bracelet: Joanna Laura Constantine Shoes: Karen Millen
The “O.G.” of reality television, Teresa Giudice is the queen of summer at the Jersey Shore.
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he most authentic Housewife from hit reality TV franchise, The Real Housewives of New Jersey, a best-selling author featured in The New York Times, an entrepreneur, a mother of four, and a host of TV entertainment, Teresa Giudice is a true “Jersey Girl.” She combines her affection for family and friends with style and the latest fashion. From the reality TV spotlight to brand endorsements, best-selling books, and an advocacy for health, fitness, charity, and of course, her family, Teresa is aptly dubbed the “O.G.” Gracing the cover of our Summer Issue, Teresa shares her favorite seasonal styles, family and relationship insights, and her love of the Jersey Shore…
It was incredible spending the day with you, and I wonder, what was your favorite look from the shoot? I really love the long pink gown. I thought it was so feminine and sexy. And I loved the green dress. The way it glistened in the sun was so beautiful. Describe from your point of view, the perfect summer in Jersey? Renting a shore house in Lavalette or Ortley and enjoying the beach during the day and grilling or going out to dinner at night, while spending time with my loved ones.
As mentioned during the shoot, you love summer fashion and beauty. Tell our readers your go-to “Jersey Girl” summer look. My favorite look would be a bikini at the beach and a cute two-piece set or a cute summer dress – fitted or flowy. For beauty products, I love the IT Cosmetics tinted moisturizer with SPF. Switching gears a bit, you truly light up with love when mentioning Louie, and this summer marks two years of marriage. How is this whole new chapter with him? Exciting, fresh, fun, and full of adventure.
Now having a combined family, Louie with his two boys and you and your girls, how do they feel having step-siblings?Is it a girl vs. boy household? It’s a huge, blended family! Everyone plays their part and it’s just easy and works. I’m very grateful. And my daughters and Louie’s sons really love having each other in their lives. We truly are the Brady Bunch. And let’s not forget our four dogs! 41
Jumpsuit: Mrs Momma Bear Workwear Earrings: Alexis Bittar Shoes: Dolce & Gabbana
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“This is my job, and I love that it’s been a part of my life for so long.”
We’ve seen your girls blossom in front of our eyes into beautiful young adults. Do you consider yourself a stern parent or do you take more of a best friend approach? I take more of a best friend approach for sure. When I must, of course I can be strict, but I want them to be able to talk to me about anything. Behind what people see play out on TV, let’s not forget to mention the successful businesswoman you are! With multiple New York Times bestsellers, appearances throughout different shows, and various products, what venture brings you the most joy? My cookbooks because it feels like I have a piece of my mom with me.
And “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” because it feels like I have home movies of my kids growing up and my parents, since they are no longer with us. Also, I love having my podcast, Turning the Tables with Teresa Giudice, because viewers really get to me know me on a more personal level. Has there been an area of business you’d like to tap into, that you haven’t already? I am very interested in the idea of partnering within the fashion and beauty industries. I have a degree in fashion marketing, and it’s always been a huge passion of mine.
If the cameras were to stop, and you could fully live away from millions of viewers’ screens, without people’s judgment or comments, would you be happy? This is my job, and I love that it’s been a part of my life for so long. No one wants to be judged, but I respect that everyone has their own opinion.
Teresa, thank you so much for your time. I would like to let our readers know that it was such a pleasure working with you the day of your shoot. If you could finish with one thing, you’d like people to know about you, what would it be? I just want people to know that I’m funloving, full of life and laughter, and I truly just go with the flow! 43
Dress: Marc Bouwer Bracelet: Joanna Laura Constantine Shoes: Daniela Uribe
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Unveiling the Business Empires of Favorite Reality TV Stars By Daniela Uribe
Lauren Conrad - The Fashion Mogul
Have you ever found yourself deep in a reality TV marathon, wondering what else your favorite personalities do once the cameras stop rolling? Well, buckle up! Today, we're diving into the fascinating world outside the screen, exploring the ventures and side hustles of stars we’ve all been obsessed with at some point. From The Hills to Love & Hip-Hop, The Real Housewives of New York to The Fixer Upper, and not forgetting the glamorous Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, let’s peek behind the curtain of their entrepreneurial spirit. 46
First off, let’s talk about Lauren Conrad, a name synonymous with early 2000s TV nostalgia. Best known for Laguna Beach and The Hills, Lauren has since channeled her passion into a successful fashion empire. Her line, LC Lauren Conrad, is a staple at Kohl's, offering chic and accessible fashion. But that’s not all - she’s also a New York Times Bestselling Author with titles like “LA Candy” and fashion and beauty guides that reflect her impeccable style. She also cofounded The Little Market whose mission is to build sustainable partnerships with artisans around the world, by connecting them with customers through an online marketplace. The Little Market helps women artisans get out of poverty and support their families. Lauren’s journey from TV star to fashion entrepreneur is nothing short of inspirational.
Lisa Vanderpump - The Queen of Beverly Hills Bethenny Frankel - The Skinnygirl Sensation Next up is Bethenny Frankel, the dynamo behind Skinnygirl. This former Real Housewife of New York and star at The Apprentice: Martha Stewart turned her TV fame into a multimillion-dollar lifestyle brand, offering everything from guiltfree wines to salad dressings. Beyond the brand, Bethenny’s philanthropic efforts through BStrong offer relief to natural disaster victims, showcasing her big heart. And if you’re looking for more Bethenny, catch her on HBO Max’s "The Big Shot with Bethenny" or tune into her podcast, Just B with Bethenny. Talk about wearing multiple hats with flair!
Lisa Vanderpump, a stalwart of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, has built an enviable empire, extending her elegance beyond the TV screen. With over 30 restaurants and bars, a wine and vodka line, a dog rescue, and a home decor collection, Lisa’s ventures are a proof of her diverse interests and business acumen. Her commitment to improving dogs' lives worldwide through her foundation is especially close to her heart. Vanderpump Wines and Vodka, along with her Vanderpump Alain Collection, are family businesses that exude quality and luxury in liquor and home décor.
Behind the Curtain of Reality TV Stars’ Entrepreneurial Spirit
Chip and Joanna Gaines The Magnolia Moguls And who could forget Chip and Joanna Gaines from HGTV's "Fixer Upper"? This beloved duo has transformed their on-screen chemistry into a thriving business, co-owning Magnolia Table restaurant in Waco, TX. Known for its locally sourced ingredients and family-friendly atmosphere, the restaurant reflects its commitment to community and quality. Their journey from TV stars to restaurateurs is truly inspiring.
K. Michelle, the powerhouse from VH-1's "Love & Hip-Hop," Finally bet you did not know this one! K. Michelle isn't just known for her musical talent and on-screen personality. She's also the mastermind behind Puff and Petals, an Atlanta-based restaurant and lounge that's perfect for a girls' night out. The venue dazzles with its floral decor, and the menu is a delightful surprise, featuring unique dishes like banana pudding cheesecake, pineapple jerk rib-eye, and Sriracha glazed salmon. While the limelight of reality TV can be fleeting, these stars have shown that with passion, creativity, and a dash of entrepreneurial spirit, it’s possible to build lasting legacies.
So, next time you’re watching your favorite reality show, remember that these stars are not just entertaining us on screen; they’re also building empires, one venture at a time. Who knows, maybe their stories will inspire you to chase your own dreams, beyond the screen. 47
The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Hudson Yards A PREMIER DESTINATION FOR BOTH BUSINESS AND LEISURE TRAVELERS. NESTLED IN THE VIBRANT AND MODERN HUDSON YARDS NEIGHBORHOOD, THIS SLEEK AND CONTEMPORARY HOTEL OFFERS UNPARALLELED COMFORT AND SOPHISTICATION. GUESTS CAN ENJOY LUXURIOUS ACCOMMODATIONS, TOP-NOTCH AMENITIES, AND STUNNING CITY VIEWS. THE CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL'S PRIME LOCATION ALSO PROVIDES EASY ACCESS TO ICONIC ATTRACTIONS, HIGH-END SHOPPING, EXQUISITE DINING, AND CULTURAL EXPERIENCES, MAKING IT AN IDEAL STAY FOR ANYONE LOOKING TO EXPERIENCE NEW YORK CITY AT ITS FINEST.
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Photography by Michelle Behre
Social Scene By BELLA Magazine
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Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show Sports Illustrated Swimsuit hosted its 2024 Runway Show in celebration of the brand’s historic 60th anniversary at the W South Beach. More than 1,500 guests, influencers, celebrities and VIP's attended Miami Swim Week's hottest event. The evening kicked off with a star-studded red carpet featuring arrivals from the following Sports Illustrated Swimsuit talent: Achieng Agutu, Brooks Nader, Camille Kostek, Christen Harper, Ellie Thumann, Hunter McGrady, Jena Sims, Kamie Crawford, Katie Austin, Lauren Chan, Nicole Williams English and Penny Lane in addition to Abbie Herbery, Haley and Hannah Cavinder, Jilly Anais, Lele Pons and Sarah Nicole Landry. Photo Credit: John Parra/Getty Images for Sports Illustrated
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Miami Swim Week® The Shows The hotspot during Swim Week was Miami Swim Week® The Shows. Set against a sunny South Beach backdrop, this global swim festival sets the stage every summer for the hottest swimwear trends, while incorporating Miami’s radiant fashion and culture. Miami Swim Week® The Shows kicked off their four-day celebration with presentations from key designers including: Ema Savahl, Amarotto Swimwear, Liberty & Justice, Beach Club, Kene Kaya, Omray Swimwear, Andrea Venturoli, Kita May Designs, Haitian Doll by Jo Bella, SAINT CLAIR, SALPICA, CYAR Swim, Hermine Swim, 11 Threads Roma, Carukia Swim, Lili Creation, Yonique, Flavia Palmiero, Normal Culture, Mars the Label, Gringa Swimwear, Hera Sea, Moda Minx, Kadan Swimwear/GlueGlue, Omni Beach Life, Vanity Couture, HeartGlass, DOB, Tempt Me, Salty Mermaid, Bonlete, Megan Mae Miami, Lascana, Liech Antel Swimwear, Tracy Marcus, Narc Swimwear, Humans, Venus, Relleciga, Banana Moon, Vaida, Smart SwimSuits, Cioccolato Couture, Olivia London Swimwear, Barquita, Fifth Blvd Collective Show, Blue Topaz Swimwear, Khonsu Swim, Bikinis by Bridget, Ashi B Fashions, Badi Swimwear, Slay Swimwear, Luxe Living Fashions, Dragana, JE TE VEUX, G Saints, Mahogany Coast, Milus Rose, Avisa Swimwear, Elle Resortwear Collection Photo Credit: Getty Images for DC Miami Swim Week
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Tara Ink. Swim Week Oasis 2024 Miami based communications firm, Tara Ink., hosted its 2024 Tara Ink. Swim Week Oasis during Miami Swim Week. The event consisted of pop-up shops and brand activations, including BELLA Brand Partner, Mrs Momma Bear Workwear. Founder and designer, Lee Evans Lee, showcased her collection poolside at the W Hotel South Beach. Guests shopped her easily interchangeable sets and suits, which are seasonally versatile and can be paired with swim and resort wear. Photo Credit: Renato Freitas @shotonsitestudios
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Around Town
Photography: Getty Images
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