FREE
ISSUE
07
NOV 2013
Our last issue was ridiculously well received with compliments coming in from the MOST unlikely folks. Our identity seems to be coming into its own, so we’re pushing it this time and going a bit more editorial with the photos. We even felt comfortable enough to have a guy share our cover, plus our look at why the holidays = break ups had us feeling romantic/nostalgic. Anyway, Christmas came before Halloween, if you go by mall decorations, so despite what that very same cover suggests, we decided to rebel and not put this issue in a complete Christmas costume. You’ll see the theme in subtle ways but we’re not all about ho-ho-hoing (in more ways than one, ha).
Sophie
Editor Sophie Wight Production Manager Kristen Camacho Layout & Design Jamil De Freitas Contributors Jerome Antoine Blake Batson Jean Marc Camacho Kevin Farrick Kariym McHoney Niall McNish Photographer Gary Jordan Event Photographers Keyon Mitchell Bruce Pena Jorel Bedeau Stylists P.Noire.Vou Ltd Make Up Samantha Seebalack
Cover credits Makeup by Samantha Seebalack Styling by P.Noire. Vou Ltd Clothing on her by Ainsley Clothing on him by Tread ID
IslandMe Events Irwin Hackshaw Taran Kissoon Shane Creteau To Advertise, Contact islandmetrinidad@gmail.com
The island scene
Photography by Samantha Jackson
HOLIDAY TREND
BLACK LACE W
e’re not saying to toss out your red dresses, or your sparkly stuff, but if you’re tired of dressing like a wrapped gift to all those Christmas functions, 2013 has brought you the perfect trend, black lace. It’s sophisticated, and just over the top enough to be festive. Plus, there’s a version for every pocket. Designers like Roberto Cavalli, Diane Von Furstenburg and Valentino have versions at Neiman Marcus, but it’s all over lower end stores like Forever21, and in many T&T boutiques too.
TIPS • Skin coloured lining is the hottest way to wear it this season, but over white, or even bare skin is totally acceptable. • You may choose to wear a coloured shoe, but don’t carry that colour to your accessories, or end up looking like a couch with coloured throw pillows. • In general, keep the accessories simple. All that lace is statement enough. • Hemlines are demure, or the skirt has some poof. The lace is already bringing enough lingerie to your everyday. 6 | islandmemag.com
OLD/NEW TREND
SNEAKER
WEDGES S
neakerhead culture has been around for a looooong time, and versions of heeled sneakers have popped up now and then, but when Marc Jacobs brought the high-topped, wedged variety last year it began a sneaker revolution. Beyoncé wore them, so did Kate Bosworth, and by the time it appeared on Gisele Bündchen (off runway) it was a solidified style-to-try. A nude version is a good choice for those playing it safe, but take note, local fashion gurus have it tipped to be the road shoe of choice for Carnival 2K14.
HOW A TREND REACHES T&T REACH NYC STREETS
REACH NYC BOUTIQUES
NOW REACH T&T FASHIONISTAS
ALL OVER FOREIGN CELEBS
ON A FEW MORE BRAVE TRINIS
MAINSTREAM USA
NOW REACH T&T BOUTIQUES
COME AND GONE
MAINSTREAM T&T
The point at which many trends drop off and never make it big in T&T, like... turbans. islandmemag.com | 7
A
ntonia Fifi’s closet is the envy of pretty much every Trinidadian woman. If you haven’t taken note of her trend-aware outfit at some event, welcome to a snapshot of one week in her life. By the way, check “La Maison de Fifi” to cop some of her style, she owns it!
5 LOOKS 5 DAYS
MONDAY. STOCK UP, 10.05AM After the kids are dropped off, she gets essential errands done, but Toni isn’t the type to do everything in yoga pants. Nope, she’s casual chic, repping her brand at all times. Especialy love the newstyle gladiator sandals.
TUESDAY. MEETINGS. 2.45PM Her meeting look doesn’t have to be corporate, but it has to be fabulous! She uses colour, pattern and accessories to pull it together with serious class. See how her bag does NOT match her shoes.
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THURSDAY. WORKING. 1.30PM Of course she spends quite a bit of time in her stores (2 branches now, this one in West Mall and another in Long Circular Mall), where she must be comfortable but personally represent for her clothing. She rocks a maxi skirt and simple top with gold touches on her wrist, neck and feet.
WEDNESDAY. GOING TO DINNER WITH THE HUBBY. 7.20PM This week her husband made a date night for a nice dinner. She had no problem finding something upscale, covered, but so sexy. What a great colour on her, right?
FRIDAY. CLUB. 12PM The cut outs are a great choice for her, flaunting a toned core, and making lots of women jealous without showing a whole lot of skin. She’s got a statement necklace, instead of loading on accessories, but mostly wants to get back to the party and leave us in the bathroom.
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WHO WENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 | islandmemag.com
World Cup Trophy Viewing October 31st 2013, Hilton Hotel.
BIG thanks to Coca Cola for letting us in on one of the best-kept secrets of October 2013. While the rest of you were recovering from Halloween parties, we were early o’clock in line to check out the actual World Cup trophy in the flesh! Sorry, gold! Wait? Gold? Yup, that thing is made of 18 carat gold with a malachite base, depicting two human figures holding up the Earth. Not that we had long to study it, folks lucky enough to get an invite (most of them sponsors guests) had the place buzzing, so not a lot of one-on-one time, aka nobody wined on the trophy. Security!
WHAT WENT ON
Justin Scott islandmemag.com | 15
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Makeup by Samantha Seebalack Styling by P.Noire. Vou Ltd Clothing by Tread ID
H
e’s got an international look, and he’s looking out internationally. Justin Scott is best known in T&T as a professional fitness trainer, but lots of us remember him from his banking days, which came after he returned from Australia with his Masters in International Business. His business background is still evident in his life as a trainer, “I never wanted to work in someone else’s gym. Only way I thought it would make sense was to work for myself.” The opportunity came up to rent a small space in Maraval with a friend to train clients, and almost a year into that he got an even bigger opportunity, to buy the whole place and expand.
We can tell he loves his job, so we cheekily asked about the downside. He answered pretty quickly, “We inadvertently become psychologists for people and have to bear the uninvited burden of all their problems.” He also mentioned that being the gym owner makes it difficult to motivate and work out himself, having been there all day, “But I can’t be an unfit jiggly personal trainer now can I?” Did we mention his sense of humour?
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WHAT WENT ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
New Flavours of Cîroc November 9th. Monas Island.
The spirit of Cîroc was strong with the DDI location, the exclusivity, and the range of cocktails to be had. Day became night and no one wanted to leave. The dress code was “Lounge Chic”, and the variety of interpretations of that was really interesting, and not shameful, thankfully. Congrats to the Cîroc team, and especially to Kathryn who also has new flavour coming her way, baby #2!
WHO WENT
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MOVEMBER MEN All the guys who participated in the facial hair frenzy are in our good books. The Caesar’s Army team in particular went hard, even arranging a donation box and a fund raising event (turn a couple of pages to see it). So here’s a small collection of some of our favourite fellas with furry faces.
Your eyebrows totally came down for a drink.
2 more weeks please. We want full Monopoly guy.
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Duck Dynasty is calling.
We showed Tom Selleck, he’s jealous.
Inspector Clouseau is on vacation, can you possibly fill in?
About to audition for a 1920s Jazz band.
So if that’s your growth over a month… dem locks real?
The black Hulk Hogan.
You’re in a remake of ‘Allo ‘Allo? No way!
Another jazz cat, smokin!
• To those who don’t get the connection between facial hair and testicular cancer: One of the common cancer treatments is radiation… which causes you lose all your hair. So when a man grows his moustache in Movember he’s literally doing it for those who can’t. So there, symbolic enough for ya?
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Mo’ Moustache, Mo’ Problems
A
hhhh, the historic month of Movember! Some of our proud Mo’ Bros out there are still sporting their hairy lip ribbons to show their support. That’s one of the more difficult things about this now worldwide event, raising funds and international awareness of men’s health issues. What’s the other difficult thing? Growing a ‘stache from scratch can be a mitch (male version, figure it out)! The first stage that prevents a lot of guys, not real men like me, from participating in Movember is that officially you need to start the month clean shaven. This might not seem like such a big deal to some fellahs who are accustomed or to the ladies out there. However, for those of you who rarely ever shave off the lip warmer it can be a terrifying experience. Personally, it was the first time since puberty hit that I have been without the good ole soup strainer. Suffice it to say, I looked like I could have been one more serial killer in The Silence of the Lambs, “it rubs the lotion on its...lip”. One particular “1ndividual” expressed his fear at looking like a newborn baby bird, if he were to shave off his fearsome whiskers. This is only the beginning of the hardships. I never realized that my new incarnation would grow in all patchy and scraggly-like. Helpful tip, invest in a moustache comb to train the new growth! A good face lotion to keep new growth soft and supple, as well as to keep the newly exposed lip area well moisturized is also a great idea. This was 22 | islandmemag.com
a lot harder than it looked folks, but I guess I’m still better off than the brave guys who attempted to grow a mo’ for the month but still look as if they never successfully made it through puberty. I think I respect these guys even more! Of course then there’s the way that some of us look mid-stache, and yes by some of us, I mean me. I got the Bollywood star from the 1960’s as well as the 1970’s porn star. Guess I represented for various significant decades, more power to me! The month definitely wasn’t easy, but that’s part of what it was all about, donating not just one’s time and energy, but one’s lip and moustache...as well as dignity and even swag, all for the greater awareness of men’s’ health issues. So respect goes out to all the baby birds, the “scragglies”, the serial killers, the seventies porn stars, and everything in between. Your efforts were not in vain, and next year we go bigger, better, thicker and fuller! Happy Movember.
WHAT WENT ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 | islandmemag.com
Movember at Rustreet November 29th. Rustreet, St. Clair.
Caesar’s Army asked everyone to come down and, “sho’ off your mo’!” This crew got really far into the idea of educating the public about men’s health, and specifically testicular cancer. Information was given by the DJ and through printed materials they distributed. There was a donation box that received more money than they expected, good choice putting it by the bar! Most of all, the guys themselves sporting soup strainers repped the cause. A lil roman told us that next year’s event is already being planned, we’re there!
WHO WENT
HOLIDAY RELATIONSHIP FAILS
Too High Expectations
1
He was supposed to create a treasure hunt for you to find your 16 gifts? She should have spent two days making pastelles with your mother? He was late to your office Christmas party? You practically had to force her to help you decorate the tree? C’mon people, the only thing you really need anyone to do at Christmas is spend time with you, and probably your family, if your partner isn’t a Christmas junkie like you, or vice versa, it shouldn’t cause so much tension (unless…. skip to #6).
Forcing Definitions
2
It’s a new relationship, wait, is it a relationship? You aren’t even sure, you’re just “talking”. If you are invited to their family Christmas Eve/Day, Boxing Day/Night lunch/dinner/brunch/breakfast it can end up forcing a definition too soon. How exactly are you going to be introduced to everyone? But how can you turn down the invitation either? Tricky.
Stress Fights
3
Present buying, a packed social schedule, extra cooking, eating vs pre-Carnival gym peonging, and you’ve still got work deadlines, in fact many of us have extra work at this time of year (shout out to everyone in marketing or retail), Christmas is stress. You’re probably going to be feeling like you need some extra attention and support. The problem is that your partner is probably feeling the same way. Uh oh.
Family Clashes
4
Suddenly you are seeing his/her cousins, siblings, parents, aunts and uncles almost every day. And on one or two of those days your families may attend the same function. This can be a real issue if everyone is pressuring you two to finally have a baby or, say, they differ along political lines. You can either get super prepared and constantly introduce safe topics (the weather, baby stories, recipe exchange maybe), or you can settle in with the ponche crème.
Over Drinking
5
This can be the cause of many a Christmas catastrophe, especially for those who choose that Ponche de Crème method of coping. Not only are you less likely to be impressive and loving to your partner, you’re potentially more embarrassing for them, “So sorry about the vomit on your shoes Uncle”. Also, the biggest relationship fail ever is to put their life in danger by driving buzzed or drunk. At the very least no one wants a story about the ‘Christmas Eve we spent in the police station’.
You’re in the Wrong Relationship
6
If you’re not falling into any of the pitfalls above, everything is technically a-ok, but you’re just not happy. It could be because you should not be in this relationship. The holidays can be a good microscope in this way. islandmemag.com | 25
CAR-MACHO
CHRISTMAS by Jean Marc Camacho
Christmas is right around the corner, give that car guy something to show you support his passion. of the engine bay with some minor fabrication. Car Care Hamper Car wash and tire shine are basic, but have inside the car looking good too. C’mon ladies, this is what matters to most of you anyway! Get products that are made for his kind of interior though. After most Trinis wash and dry a car, anywhere black that could shine gets “Amor all”... you end up having to buckle up in the back seat to stop sliding all over. Plus, real leather cleaner will have detergents that are not as abrasive but can clean blemishes that water won’t remove. And condition leather too! With our climate, leather seats tend to dry out and crack. Just ensure the product is either colour matching or neutral. For fabric interiors, look for one with a scrubbing brush applicator.
Air Filters Easy upgrade for those who want the original look, but appreciate horsepower gain. Original replacement types are available from most reputable brands, but there are all types of universal applications also. These can either drop into the original air cleaner assembly or change the appearance 26 | islandmemag.com
Audio Upgrade Most modern vehicles have custom trims and dashboards, so it’s not as easy as it used to be to just “buy a deck”! But custom installations have gotten a lot cheaper and are more value for your money. Most original speakers are mass produced and low quality, just adequate. Most electronic stores will carry more than what is needed. Depending on your budget they can configure a package from speakers, to a full kit with amps and wiring kits, etc.
GPS Tracking Device Get it for their investment or for your safety, no matter how you look at it or how much you want to spend, there are many products and packages to suit you. From call-in services to report theft, to a shut-down option or tracking via your smart phone.
Chenelle Maloney
islandmemag.com | 27
C
henelle is one of the most bubbly, confident women we know. She’s not shy, and she’s not shallow. She says that if she could eat her way around the world she’d be a happy person. Well, she’s recently resigned from Neal and Massy to work with CAL in the coming year, so that’s one big step closer. She’s also been a really popular model in T&T, but she doesn’t claim a strong passion for it, “modeling is just work for me, I do it because I can.” She does recognise that modeling allows her the flexibility that she craves, admitting that she might die if she had to spend the balance of her working life behind a desk, “I don’t do well with monotony, I never have. Routines get to me. I need chaos to achieve peace. I believe that’s called being in your 20’s?” She does have a favourite kind of modeling though, “I love doing shoots where I get to smile. They’re always my best photos. I feel like such a nincompoop when I have to do that ‘blue steel/space in your lip’ face. I pretend to be ‘Rih-oncé’ for those five seconds.” Huh… turns out, bubbly, confident Chenelle has some insecurities, interesting. 28 | islandmemag.com
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Makeup by Samantha Seebalack Styling by P.Noire. Vou Ltd Clothing by WET Swimsuits, Ainsley for Women Accessories by Bang Bang
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Makeup by Samantha Seebalack Styling by P.Noire. Vou Ltd Pants by Tres Chic Jacket by Zadora Accessories by Bang Bang
WHO WENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 | islandmemag.com
Baileys Bottle Launch November 12th. Buzo Osteria Italiana.
The local glitterati gathered at Buzo for the reveal of a new bottle shape for Baileys. The event practically kicked off the Christmas season with gorgeous, classic decorations and a choice of Baileys cocktails. Face it, the taste of Baileys is like liquid Christmas. The food was some of the best of Buzo, as well as the conversation and donation (silent auction throughout the night to benefit the Learning 4 Life Foundation).
WHAT WENT ON
YUH “
GT?” “GT” is one of the latest phrases being overused lately, if you haven’t heard it, well, you’re probably not 23. It means, “get through”, in an intimate sense. Let’s be honest, there are certain events, or situations, that mean you’re far more likely to be reaching for your glove compartment condom later. Whether you’re the hunter, or the hunted, don’t waste these opportunities. POST BREAK UP ......................... Either you’re more vulnerable or looking to break out after a lengthy confinement. ON VACATION .........................
If you’re out of the country, it’s like you have a clean slate that must be filled, or you just know that you’re never going to see these people again. WEDDING ......................... Especially if you’re in the wedding party. All that love being expressed all day… OLE YEAR’S ......................... You feel your hottest, all dressed up.
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Plus you might be your drunkest. Plus, the kiss at midnight sets a precedent. Plus your ex always looks better when “Auld Lang Syne” is playing. NOW BACK FROM COLLEGE ......................... The sexually charged nature of a college campus means there’s a transition time upon return from university from those foreign practices back to local morals. VISITING CELEBRITY ......................... Once in a lifetime chance kind of vibe. Hopefully that person’s celebrity status remains intact or else you could be the one who banged a guy who used to be on BET. ISLANDME PARTY ......................... Any full-vibes event counts, but hey, by we, it’s a done deal. CARNIVAL .........................
It’s the hook-up excuse of the century, and it happens every year!
3MOVIES
CHRISTMAS
Sure-fire way to catch the Christmas spirit is to watch a couple Christmas movies. So cuddle up with your special someone for our three most touching, warm hearted selections.
LOVE ACTUALLY (2003) It’s. Got. Everything. Overlapping storylines, conflict, humour, and an airport chase. Quote: Let me say - Without hope or agenda - Just because it’s Christmas - And at Christmas you tell the truth - To me, you are perfect.
ELF (2003) Buddy has become about as famous as Rudolph. Will Ferrell managed to create a new Christmas classic from the day it premiered. Quote: I’m sorry I ruined your lives, and crammed eleven cookies into the VCR.
HOME ALONE (1990) A MUST if you haven’t taken in Kevin defending his home against the wet bandits since you were a kid. You’ll get all the jokes now, and the secondary storylines will hit you in the feels. Quote: We live on the most boring street in the whole United States of America, where nothing even remotely dangerous will ever happen. Period.
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+3 MORE Then balance it out with three faves for messed-up action Xmas. And just to be clear, a Christmas movie doesn’t have to be about Christmas, it just has to be set at Christmastime.
DIE HARD (1988) Bruce Willis versus Severus Snape! You’ve got to love the dismal airport Christmas decorations too. Quote: ‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, except... the four a**holes coming in the rear in standard two-by-two cover formation.
BATMAN RETURNS (1992) There’s just something about Keaton’s Batman… Actually Pfeiffer’s Catwoman and Devito’s Penguin are A+ too. Quote: A kiss under the mistletoe. You know, mistletoe can be deadly if you eat it.
GREMLINS (1984) Billy defends his entire Norman Rockwell town against… these… things. You’ll laugh at the 80s’ effects, but you’ll still be secretly freaked out. Quote: I warned you. With Mogwai comes much responsibility. But you didn’t listen.
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+ 3 AGAIN
MORE
But if neither cuddly, nor creepy is your cup of Christmas tea, then perhaps you should stick to the classics. Get ready for xmas overload!
A CHRISTMAS STORY (1983) Christmas frustration for one kid in 1940s USA. Warning, you might go buy a BB gun after. Quote: Are you kidding? Stick my tongue to that stupid pole? That’s dumb!
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946) An angel helps a suicidal man come to his senses by showing him what the world would be like without him. Quote: You sit around here and you spin your little webs and you think the whole world revolves around you and your money. Well, it doesn’t, Mr. Potter.
JINGLE ALL THE WAY (1996) This is not a good movie. It’s not. But it’s a classic because it’s about the true meaning of Christmas, desperate last-minute shopping Quote: I’m not a pervert! I just was looking for a Turbo Man doll!
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WHO WENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fantasy Raft Up November 16th. Turtle Bay.
A party on the water. Intra-crew marketing means it remains a pretty exclusive, you-hadda-know-somebody kind of event. Machel Montano was conspicuously in attendance, sippin’ on 3Zero and taking it all in. Later in the day he actually jumped up and performed. He’s definitely “The Happiest Man Alive”, because he sang it like, four times. That created the happiest crowd alive by the way. Good luck topping it next year Fantasy!
WHAT WENT ON
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The Truth
About Keratin NOT TRUE - Some people may have a little reaction such as slight burning of the eyes (like peeling an onion), but it is the person that applies the keratin treatment that should take some precautions since they use they are using the products often. BEFORE
K
AFTER
“Keratin is only for people who want straight hair”. NOT TRUE - The flat ironing gives hair a straighter look, not the keratin itself. Curls will return after a shampoo.
eratin treatments are great for preventing frizz, making hair more resilient, and cutting down blow drying time. The better keratin products leave your hair shiny, smooth and feeling soft and light, but myths about Many products claim the benefits of keratin, so get details from your trained them are popular. hair professional on the brands, the formula and the proven results for “Keratin can damage your hair”. your hair type. A keratin hair treatment NOT TRUE - Keratin is a protein, natucould be the best thing to give you that rally in your hair, it’s about 90% of your healthy, natural look. hair matter. Now, when Keratin treatment products are applied the heat of Hair magician, Paula the flat iron is used to seal them in, so if Small, Cosmologist and it’s a non-titanium flat iron, or too high De Fabulous trainer, is the owner of le Monde de heat, your hair may be scorched. “Formaldehyde in some keratin products is bad for your health”.
Paula located in Newtown (868) 622-6352. Hair tips are sponsored by De Fabulous Hair Care products for people that want De Fabulous hair. islandmemag.com | 43
WHO WENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44| islandmemag.com
Six degrees of comedy November 28th. Zen.
Komedy at K Casa outgrew the original location and Niall McNish moved it on up to Zen. Kareem Rockwell and Jarrod Best-Mitchell were back! But the other 4 “comics” were all ambushed and asked to perform just the week before. Osei Wright, Damon Dip, Jeffrey Wight and Shea Lloyd were basically first timers. The experiment had highs and lows but everyone agrees it’s the right way to develop the scene and totally worth checking out.
WHAT WENT ON
Makeup by Samantha Seebalack Styling by P.Noire. Vou Ltd Dress by Anna White
Daniella Alves
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M
aybe it’s because she just met us, but Daniella comes across as a pretty private person. Cool, calm, and just gorgeous. She says she’s not dazzled by the modeling world at all, “Modeling is something that I just do for fun. It’s not my passion, however I really enjoy meeting different types of people.” She also said that she enjoys being able to break away from reality on shoots. That makes sense for someone pursuing a career in psychology. As for the Christmas theme to our more avant garde set-ups with her, she seemed pretty happy to be smeared in spirit gum and covered in poinsettia petals. Later she revealed that Christmas trumps Carnival for her, “Carnival is my culture and I embrace it but something about the feeling in the air that you absorb when it’s Christmas… it’s just so amazing!”
Makeup by Samantha Seebalack Styling by P.Noire. Vou Ltd
Makeup by Samantha Seebalack Styling by P.Noire. Vou Ltd
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Parliament Is In Session
A
wedding, by definition, is any ceremony where two people are united in marriage. Almost every wedding these days is ‘non-traditional’ as couples stray away from old customs to give their special day its own identity. But one tradition that seems to stay true to this day is putting music as the last thing on the ‘to do list’. To put this into perspective, imagine the most beautiful location, friends and family all dressed to the nines, the most delicious food and the bride as stunning as she’s ever looked… with NO MUSIC! We would like to offer a guide to most brides & grooms-to-be…
DOs • Book your wedding DJ as early as possible. There are other events happening on your wedding night. • Make a down payment to secure your DJ’s services. • Have a few meetings to discuss your songs of choice as well as songs that you do NOT want to hear. • Have a Master of Ceremonies. This person has official duties to perform that is NOT the job of your DJ. • STICK TO THE PLAN!
DON’Ts • Change your official songs on the day without notifying your DJ beforehand. • In your speeches, don’t say to the DJ “Let’s start the partayyyyy!!!’’ if you know your guests are about to sit down to have dinner. • Do NOT allow your family and friends to abuse your DJ… An abused DJ is not a
problem for the EMA *cue crickets* ;)
Very short and sweet list to help you with your big day! See you guys soon at a wedding near you!
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Stephanie Rydle
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W
here has this girl been? Well, mostly in Sweden, that’s where she grew up, but her Trini mom made sure she visited T&T frequently. Guess she likes us, because she’s decided to move here for the foreseeable future. She’s gaining local clients quickly who love her international view in graphic design, web design and social media management. Then there’s food photography (a popular local sushi restaurant’s menu features her skills), which all started with a baking project of her own back in Sweden. You never know where a project is going to take you, from baked goods in Europe to Japanese cuisine in the Caribbean. We’ll be watching her for what’s next. 54 | islandmemag.com
Makeup by Samantha Seebalack Styling by P.Noire. Vou Ltd Clothing by Ainsley for Women
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Makeup by Samantha Seebalack Styling by P.Noire. Vou Ltd
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SIGNS YOU’RE
You might not live at home, you might be married, you might be in charge of a half-a-million-dollar budget at work, but that does NOT mean you’re a grownup.
NEARING GROWNUPCY 1.
YOU GOT YOUR JOB ON YOUR OWN
+50
IN YOUR UNCLE’S COMPANY -40
+5
2.
YOU OPEN YOUR MAIL
3.
YOU HAVE INSURANCE ON SOMETHING, AT LEAST YOURSELF
4.
YOU HAVE A WET TOWEL ON YOUR BED/FLOOR RIGHT NOW
5.
YOU HAVE WINDOW COVERINGS, OFFICIAL ONES, A SHEET DOESN’T COUNT
6.
YOUR FRIDGE IS FULLY STOCKED WITH CONDIMENTS, BUT NOT MUCH ELSE
7.
YOU PAY YOUR OWN BILLS
-10
YOU OWN A IRON
YOU KNOW HOW TO USE IT +5 ON AN ACTUAL IRONING BOARD
9. 10. 11. 12.
+10
-5
+45
ONTIME ALMOST ALWAYS LATE -10 ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THEY ARE LATE, AND GENUINELY FEEL BAD ABOUT IT
8.
+25
+0
+45 +5
YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE FORM OF ID
+10
+40
+40 YOU ARE MORE THAN 1/3 INTO REPAYING BACK A LOAN FROM A LEGITIMATE FINANCIAL INSTITUTION YOU PREPARE MORE THAN 50% OF YOUR MEALS YOU WORKOUT, NO MATTER HOW LITTLE, REGULARLY +10
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+20
13.
YOU WASH THEM
+5
+10
14.
YOU WEAR A SEATBELT
15.
YOU WEAR A WATCH
16.
YOU BUY YOUR GIRL/GUY A BIRTHDAY GIFT
17.
+5
YOU OWN MORE THAN ONE PAIR OF SHEETS
+5
THAT DOESN’T ACTUALLY TELL THE CORRECT TIME
YOU BUY YOUR MOM A BIRTHDAY GIFT WITH DAD’S MONEY -20
-5
+5
+20
YOU HAVE READ AT LEAST ONE BOOK THIS YEAR IT HAD PICTURES (TEXTBOOKS DON’T COUNT) IT HAD “50” IN THE TITLE -5
-10
+10
18.
YOU CAN STAY IN THE SAME FETE FROM 10PM TO 4AM
19.
YOUR GAMING CONSOLE IS ON THE FLOOR -5 ON PHONEBOOKS -5 GATHERING DUST SOMEWHERE
+10
20.
YOU HAVE BEEN APPROACHED TO SELL ORGANO GOLD
21.
YOUR BATHROOM MIRROR IS WIPED CLEAN SPOTTY -5
-15
+15
+5
+5
22.
YOU FLOSS
23.
YOU HAVE VOTED, AND NOT JUST FOR ANYA OR TESSANNE YOU HAVE BEEN OFFERED A CREDIT CARD +20
24. 25.
YOU NEVER RUN OUT OF TOOTHPASTE, TOILET PAPER OR PROPHYLACTICS
26.
YOU REMEMBER TO CHARGE YOUR PHONE
27.
YOU DO YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING EARLY +10 WITHIN 3 DAYS BEFORE CHRISTMAS
+20
+5
+5
-10
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28.
YOU HAVE ON YOUR WALLS NOTHING, PAINT -10 POSTERS, NOT FRAMED FRAMED ART +25
-5
+20
29.
YOU HAVE OWNED THE SAME PAIR OF SUNGLASSES FOR OVER 8 MONTHS
30.
YOUR FRIENDS TRUST YOU TO BABYSIT, AT LEAST THEIR DOG
31.
YOU CAN NAME THE MINISTER OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT YOU KNEW THAT THE NAME OF THAT MINISTRY IS INCOMPLETE
+25
+5 -5
32.
YOUR BREAKFAST CEREAL HAS MORE THAN 3 COLOURS
33.
YOU CAN HOLD DOWN A LONG TERM RELATIONSHIP, IF YOU CHOOSE
-5
+25
Under 150 points: You can’t stop, and you won’t stop – You never want to grow up, you want to move out someday but not actually grow up. You laughed a lot taking this quiz and never spent more than 6 seconds deciding how many points to assign yourself. Enjoy this stage, it may not last.
150-299 points: Feel Yuh Reach – You’ve taken some important steps. You probably find yourself giving your younger cousin advice at family gatherings, and you feel pretty good about things, but hold up buddy, you aren’t there yet. If, God forbid, your apartment floods, or you suspect you’re the victim of identity theft, or you’ve been assigned to bring anything but garlic bread to your office pot-luck… you’re gonna need mommy. We’ll check yuh in a couple years.
300+ points: Old Soul – Maybe you’ve been this way since you were 14, maybe you had twins last year and your perspective on life has changed drastically, or at least your perspective on sleep, but, ummmm… loosen up a bit, oh gosh.
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ONE * COOL THING
W
e could have picked any item from Cocobel Chocolates. Isabel Brash’s mad passion for single estate chocolate (Rancho Quemado Estate, her brother’s place actually) has led to this former architect creating art… that is also delicious chocolate. Try everything, they taste just as amazing as they look, but we digress, this rounds we’re vibesing on the sorrel bark. Shards of spiced white chocolate swirled with 65% dark chocolate, with candied sorrel on top. The sorrel is local, fresh (not that dried stuff from Egypt!), then put through a five-day process to candy it. Cinnamon and clove spices are added to the white chocolate to compliment the sorrel and give it that warm “Christmassy” taste. The white chocolate also balances the tartness of the sorrel.
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This is not a review of the whole product, this is just one cool thing*
Get ‘em for $40TT per 2 oz bag, or a 5oz box for $100TT at 37 Fitt St (also the home of Medulla Art Gallery, which is very cool as well) or online at www.cocobelchocolate.com
Makeup by Samantha Seebalack Styling by P.Noire. Vou Ltd
Marisa Mahadeo
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M
arisa is an only child, and we’re kind of glad because we can only imagine the complex she would have probably given her siblings growing up with her in the same house. Check this list; she’s completed her Bachelor’s of Education and is thinking about learning another language, she’s a total tom boy who loves sports and fitness, she starts a new hobby every year and has gotten pretty far with modeling, kung fu and Latin dancing. She also says people tend to underestimate her strength. Marisa put herself on our radar when she competed in Miss T&T Universe this year, but then we put her in a very different kind of shoot so she couldn’t rely on ‘pretty’. She was totally up for it saying, “I’m the type of person to take chances because if I never do I’d always wonder, what if?”
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Makeup by Samantha Seebalack Styling by P.Noire. Vou Ltd
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WHO WENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68| islandmemag.com
Red Ants Jouvert November 17th. Samaan Park, Chaguaramas.
Plenty security! We had our bands checked like 4 times. Certain celebs in attendance could be part of that, or it could just be how serious Red Ants are. No problems to get drinks, more than 2 colours of paint, and the foam area thing was a super cool addition. Food was a must later on when the sun came out, but before there was food, there was‌ water. Which we are sure many car interiors were grateful for.
WHAT WENT ON
GIVE IT! C
harity at Christmas is entirely too much about plastic toys for orphans. Not that toys are a bad thing exactly, who can really be vex at a child’s face lighting up in delight on this one special day. But let’s think about that for more than a minute, and consider all the other days of the year for an orphan. Feel sad now? Exactly. This Christmas you might consider giving in a more meaningful way. Sticking with orphans, give the darn orphanage some money, and then ask them what they need at some random time of the year. Right now, put a reminder in your phone for… March 3rd, or June 22nd… whenever, that will make you call them up and say, “Hey, so how’s your toilet paper stocks? Oh, so the fence needs repairing? Math textbooks? A fan? 6 fans?” You should probably also think about the items that you and your children use every single day, and then donate a bunch of those. Things like deodorant, diapers, cleaning products, paper, shoe polish, bleach, blankets, socks, light bulbs, cups, and (if at all possible) your time. From children to animals. The TTSPCA does a major service to T&T by at70 | islandmemag.com
Volunteer dog walkers at the North TTSPCA
tempting to protect animals, and educate people on proper practices. They spay and neuter many dogs and cats, and attempt to get as many adopted as possible, but… they need staff, they need marketing, and they need pet FOOD. Seriously drop off some chow. It’s expensive for just your dog right? Think about the dozens under their roof at any one time. You can donate to account # 800 2826 75301 at Republic Bank Limited, Pointe a Pierre to benefit the South branch, and you can become a member for a one time membership fee of TT$100. Email them at ttspcasouthbranch@yahoo.com if you like. Give blood. It’s a hassle, but it’s literally the gift of life. You may not be able
to give for your entire life, you may end up with low blood pressure or something at a time when a family member needs blood. Get good karma and donate randomly while you are young and healthy! Don’t hesitate when you come across a cool charity project. I am 100% vibesing on the Pollinator t-shirts being produced by the Growing Leaders Foundation. The limited edition shirts are being sold for… bottles. Reverse recycling! 150 plastic bottles gets one a shirt. A cool shirt. A really, really cool shirt. Seon Thompson (this guy is one to look out for) has lent some of his designs of our icons of T&T. Look them all up on facebook at ‘Copy Book Page’, they are fantastic. To add to the awesomeness of the t-shirts, the foundation is going to attempt the one-forone model. For every shirt “purchased” a free one is given to a person who needs it. These shirts could become a fashion statement for 2014. Make it happen! Ultimately, open your eyes. There is probably something worthy down the street from you. Connecting with your own community can do wonders for the entire country, if we all did it en masse. It might not even be a “charity” exactly. A primary school would be a great choice, or a sports club for kids. We have to stop rushing by and avoiding eye contact with people and programs. Time to give something of yourself to get back a better T&T.
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SURVEY SAYS WE ASKED 100 OF YOU ABOUT CHRISTMAS PRESENTS
WORST GIFT EVER: LAWN GNOME
INSECT STATUETTE
NOTHING
KITCHEN APPLIANCE
WRONG SIZED SLIPPERS
T-SHIRT THAT HAD EVIDENCE IT HAD BEEN WORN BEFORE
HEALING CRYSTAL
A HORN
76%
92%
24%
SURVEY SAYS
OF THEM TRY TO SPEND WHAT THEY PREDICT WILL BE SPENT ON THEM
TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION WHAT THEIR PARTNER MAKES FOR THEIR EXPECTATIONS OF GIFT VALUE
BUY GIFTS FOR THEIR PARTNER
100% OF THOSE WHO DO NOT BUY GIFTS FOR THEIR PARTNER ARE FEMALE.
HOW MUCH IS TOO LITTLE TO SPEND ON A GIFT FOR YOU?
HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH TO SPEND ON A GIFT FOR YOU?
MOST POPULAR AMOUNT: $500 AVERAGE AMOUNT: $330 BUT MOST SAID: DOESN’T MATTER
MOST POPULAR AMOUNT: $5,000 AVERAGE AMOUNT: $3,745 BUT MOST SAID: NO LIMIT!
MORE EXPENSIVE HOLIDAY CHRISTMAS
64
PEOPLE
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CARNIVAL
32
PEOPLE
EQUAL
4
PEOPLE
One of the ads in this magazine is fake‌
Did you notice? Yeah, go back and look.
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FRESH THINKING HEALTHY EATING
Shoppes of Maraval 622-2220 Starlite Shopping Plaza 632-5893 UWI St Augustine Campus Coming soon!! : PitaPitTT