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MANIAC S E P T E M B E R /O C T OB E R 2 015 CON T R I BU TOR S
PU BL ISH ER/E DI TOR I N CH I EF April Hubal O F F I C E M A N AG E R Cody Nicole Wiegand E DI TOR Mia Bencivenga DE SIGN E R Martha Ashley Heatherington COP Y E DI TOR Kristi Schaefer E D I T O R I A L A S S I S TA N T Indigo Baloch, Emily Durham, Nicole Fallert PHOTOGR A PH Y CON T R I BU TOR S Alan Adams, Alyssa Andress, Allyce Andrew, April Hubal, Nicole Casino Photography, Adrienne Rozzi, Emilio Sanchez, Christian Shaknaitis, Cody Nicole Wiegand , Courtesy of Kim Marie Angiulli, Courtesy of Cal-a-Vie Health Spa, Courtesy of Doubleday, Courtesy of Bonnie Loya CON T R I BU T I NG W R I T E R S Alyssa Andress, Indigo Baloch, Mia Bencivenga, Katie Binetti, Anna Ciaccio, Emily Durham, April Hubal, Sarah Lolley, Chrys Perkins, Rachel Sanzone, Stacy Skiavo, Cody Nicole Wiegand INTER NS Alyssa Andress, Katie Binetti
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O N T HE C O V E R PHOTOGRAPHY BY APRIL HUBAL, STYLED BY STACEY CUNNINGHAM, REPRESENTED BY SEE MANAGEMENT, HAIR AND MAKEUP BY JESSICA KEGLOVICH
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MANIAC CONTENTS September/October 2015 14/ UNDERCOVER Maddie Ziegler
22/ FASHION Shop the Look with Lex & Lynne
26/ FEATURE Women of Power
30/ JET SET Cal-a-Vie Health Spa
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34/ FEATURE Jo Piazza
36/ FEATURE The Pittsburgh Pop Up Wedding Co.
38/ FEATURE Mediterranean Baby Blogger
40/ MUSIC Rich White Ladies
42/ FASHION Friendzies
50/ BEAUTY Fall Beauty Favorites
52/ STYLE PROFILE Kiya Tomlin
54/ FASHION Shops
58/ FASHION Closets by Tom
60/FEATURE Erin Shriver
62/ FEATURE Dr. Marc Liang
65/ FEATURE
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Beauty at Every Age
66/ FEATURE Bonnie Loya
67/ FEATURE Kim Marie Angiulli
68/ FEATURE Christina Zervanos
70/ EVENTS Mutts and Mingle
72/ ART Adrienne Rozzi
PAGE 34 CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE MANIACMAGAZINE.COM FOR STORIES, EDITORIALS, A N D O T H E R P I E C E S T H AT WERE JUST TOO EDGY TO MAKE IT INTO PRINT!
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BIGGER BITE
MANIAC TA K E A B I G G E R B I T E OU T TA L I F E
My dear Maniacs, When people ask me, “What or who exactly is a Woman of Power?” I am sometimes at a loss to answer them. There is no simple answer; a Woman of Power can be many things. Most importantly, however, she can be anything she wants. I think the confusion people have when seeing women equated with power comes from the idea that power is often equated with something physical, like strength. These words are most often associated with men and with masculinity. People think athletes with rippling muscles or stone-faced world leaders (the majority of which are still men) are the definitions of true power and strength. There is a notion that persists that people who are feminine aren’t as powerful as their masculine counterparts, when there could be nothing further from the truth. In reality, anyone, big or small, male, female, or somewhere within or outside of that spectrum, can be powerful. Even if you are wheelchair bound or only twelve-years old, you can exhibit enormous strength. Women and girls can be-and-are-just as powerful and strong as men and boys. This is because power is not something you just inherently have; it is something you earn. You earn it through being honest with yourself and others about who you truly are, and always pushing yourself to be the best version of you. You become powerful by being kind and taking care of others, but also, by doing the same for yourself. When you explore these pages, you will find women of all kinds, hopefully including someone that you can relate to and be inspired by. From our cover girl Maddie Ziegler, who exhibits wisdom beyond her years, to the music duo Rich White Ladies who are creating a fabulous and safe space for themselves and their listeners, to all of our local and wonderful Pittsburgh ladies who stopped by Maniac for their fun and fabulous photo shoots (something everyone should have an opportunity to do at least once), we sincerely hope you find encouragement to be, and feel, powerful. Go forth and conquer!
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MANIAC BTS
BEHIND THE e i d d a M h t i w SCENES Ziegler WHO: Maddie Ziegler WHERE: Stylist’s family home in the wilds of Pennsylvania WHAT: Women of power come in all shapes, sizes, and ages, and this year’s cover model Maddie Ziegler is Maniac’s youngest cover star to date. You’d never guess the 12-year-old (turning 13 September 30th) is just a preteen because of how well spoken, professional, and attentive she was on set. She and fellow dancer younger sister Mackenzie are the perfect, talented pair. They also acted just as sisters should – joking around with each other, watching YouTube videos, and encouraging one another before getting in front of the camera. The Ziegler girls may be young, but they are the definition of hard workers who’s futures are as bright as can be.
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MANIAC BTS
ON SET WITH LAUREN TESAURO OF BROTHER WOLF AND CHAPEL HILLS JEWELRY
Stylist’s family s home in the wild a i n a v l y s n n e P f o 13
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Endless Rose shift dress available at No.14 Boutique
DANCING to the Beat of Her Own
DRUMMER
BY MIA BENCIVENGA, PHOTOGRAPHY BY APRIL HUBAL, STYLED BY STACEY CUNNINGHAM, REPRESENTED BY SEE MANAGEMENT, HAIR AND MAKEUP BY JESSICA KEGLOVICH
“How’s your summer been going, girl?” I ask Pittsburgh native, Hello Bistro enthusiast, and dancing and performing wunderkind, Maddie Ziegler.
“We just found out who ‘A’ was.”
“I’ve been working, but I’ve gotten some time to go swimming and have fun with my friends. It’s been a lot of fun!”
“Me and all of my friends were watching and SCREAMING at the top of our lungs when we found out. The lights were off. I was getting so fired up—I didn’t know what to do with myself!”
“NO!”
“Did you get to go on a vacation?” “Would you ever want to do a show like that?” “Well, technically I haven’t gone on an actual vacation in about three years, but we have traveled the world this year, Paris, London, Australia; we were on location for events and stuff, but we still got to explore.” Such is the life of a twelve-year-old, up-and-coming superstar. Deep down, from the very bottom of our hearts, everyone wishes that they could dance. I’m not talking about doing the electric slide, grinding at the club, or whatever Zumba is (three classes in and I’m still at a loss). I’m talking about what Maddie Ziegler is able to do. Although she’s barely a teenager, she’s a dancer that can rival almost anyone in discipline, technique, and sheer talent. She’s almost otherworldly when she moves. Even without a knowledge of dance, you know that behind every seemingly easy step she makes, there are years and years of intense practice. And that at such a young age - a mere 12-years old - you know she has somehow combined an intensely difficult skill with an art form…seamlessly. Yet somehow Maddie has managed to occupy happily that strange space in between the fun of adolescence and the insanity that is being a professional performer. Exhibit A: Pretty Little Liars. “It’s my favorite show. Do you watch it?” she asks me eagerly.“I watched some episodes before interviewing Ian Harding for one of our cover stories, but I’ve fallen way behind.”
“Yes! I’m obsessed with Pretty Little Liars. I got to be on the show!” Maddie guest starred on season 6, and was sufficiently terrifying in a turn as a ghostly dancer. “Everyone was so sweet; I just loved the cast. It was one of the best days of my life. I’d love to do more scripted television.” Though in some ways it feels as though this young lady has come out of nowhere, it’s important to remember that this is someone who has been on television since she was eight…on just a little tiny reality show phenomenon called Dance Moms, where she has long been a fan favorite. But Maddie Ziegler is eager to get out of her comfort zone and push herself creatively. “I’m definitely living the dream right now, but...I’d like to do more acting, or maybe something that would combine dancing and acting.” “What kind of roles are you looking for?” “Something more dramatic, with mystery and action. Even though I’ve done Disney shows before, which I love doing, I would also like to do more serious roles.” Maddie has more than shown her capability for more intense, serious roles, as she has been playing an aspect of Sia in the singer’s music videos for ‘Chandelier’ ‘Elastic Heart’ and most recently ‘Big Girls Cry’. “My whole life I’ve been more of an old soul; my mom has always said I act old for my age.”
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Samantha Sleeper lace and cotton top Endless Rose embellished skirt available at No. 14 Boutique Colette Malouf Tri-finger ring Satomi Studio ring 16 Jimmy Choo suede heels
“Why is that, do you think?” “Since I’ve been working since I was eight, I feel like I have to not fool around so much, you know?” Perhaps it’s this worldliness to Maddie that led her to the playing the lead in Sia’s series of hauntingly beautiful music videos and performances. You need someone who is technically gifted to stand up to the insane choreography, who is able to convey and emote the appropriate emotions, and, on top of it all, can perform under the intense circumstances that come with live performances on national stages. Maddie has performed at Saturday Night Live, The Grammys, Jimmy Kimmel Live! The Ellen DeGeneres Show, among others. One begins to wonder if this kind of pressure rattles her at all? “Well, for SNL, I didn’t realize at first how big of a deal it was, because, and I don’t mean to be rude, but I’m usually asleep at that time! Everyone around me was flipping out, though! It was such an honor to perform there. Before I get on stage, I’m a little bit of a head-case. I get stressed out! I’m so nervous, and I try to keep calm, but usually inside I’m freaking out. But after I get through the first two steps, I get relaxed. I feel less stressed and more powerful when I dance. Once I get into the story, I forget about everything.” Maddie tells me that having another performer on stage is helpful as well. And, like the empathetic young lady she is, she understands how to navigate around performing with superstars. “It’s definitely hectic. I know how it feels for me when people fan-girl, which is really really nice, but it can be overwhelming. So I don’t do that to people I meet who I idolize. I hold back my excitement as much as possible. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still excited. I just try not to yell “omigod omigod omigod!” at people.” If there was ever a crash course in conquering-theacting-world 101, learning from Kristen Wiig and Shia LaBeuof would just about do it. “We take off from each other. They learned from my dancing and I learned from their acting. When I was performing with Kristin, I was trying to do the same exact thing as her, and she was trying to do the same exact thing as me.” “For ‘Elastic Heart’, I had to hiss and growl. It was... different. But I had a lot of fun doing it, learning from Shia as an actor. There were definitely a lot of noises, weird wolf things going on!” She laughs. But admits the shoot was not without its intense moments. “The part at the end, when I’m violently screaming, some of the takes I would really, really scream, others I would do it silently.” She says this in a sort of nonchalant way, which makes you realize that this video, and working with Shia LaBeouf,
is in many ways, par for the course in Maddie Ziegler’s world. But there is, in fact, one person out there who could sufficiently ruffle her feathers. “Zac Efron. I’ve loved him since High School Musical. He’s like so good looking it’s not fair.” All of this attention for someone so young is not always an easy task in navigating all of the negativity. “The people who are sweet, I am very thankful for. But for people who don’t accept me because of what I do, I don’t let them phase me. I let it go in one ear and out the other.” Maddie makes one especially astute observation, saying “I feel like the reason they’re talking about me is that they want my attention.” In addition to having her own great sensibilities, she has a strong support system of family around her. “Sometimes I get really stressed out. I need to take a break. I end up hanging out with my little sister a lot. We’re twenty months apart, so we’re pretty close.” There must be something about the Ziegler girls, because Maddie’s sister Mackenzie is a kind of insane combination of dancer, actor, and singer. She has already released an album, Mack Z, that reached #1 on the iTunes pop chart list in America. The two of them travel together, a kind of dynamic duo of mega-talented adorable siblings. When I ask which woman she looks up to, and why, Maddie doesn’t hesitate. “I look up to my mom. She’s very hardworking, and she cares a lot about everyone and she’s always helping other people out. I also look up to Sia. She’s such a great influence, she’s very inspiring, and has a great work ethic. She’s so sweet, always caring for people…she really wants the best for me, which is amazing.” “My mom always tells me don’t let the fame get to you, stay polite, always be very sweet to everyone. She tells me to not get a big head. Sia said to me one time, “If you don’t love what you’re doing, don’t do it. If that’s it, if you can’t do anymore, then enough is enough. If you are doing something you don’t want to do, you have to say no.” “The craziest thing about all of this has been teaming up with Sia and performing at the Grammy’s and all of these things, it’s just been a dream. Performing on TV—I never thought that that would ever happen.” How does she think she achieved this? “If you want to do something but you’re too scared, you have to be willing to put yourself out there. You have to put 150% into anything you’re doing. If you do work really hard, I think that your time will come, and you’ll become something amazing.” 17
Endless Rose Top and Elliatt Skort available at No. 14 Boutique Manolo Blahnik suede booties, Wilhelm NYC floral crown Zac Posen Purse handpainted by artist Benjamin Smith of Brush by Ben Smith, Colette Malouf hematite pave choker, Satomi Studio crystal drop necklace, I Still Love You NYC mirrored pendant.
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Diane von Furstenberg Dress available at Lex & Lynne Converse Sneakers I Still Love You NYC choker worn over collar Optioned with: Guess vegan leather jacket.
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Fairbault Woolen Mill Co. Blanket available at Lex & Lynne Maddie wears Objects Without Meaning dress available at Ragged Row Chanel Suede Sandal Brother Wolf Sacred Heart Necklace available at Chapel Hills Jewelry and Louis Anthony Jewelers Satomi Studio Cuffs Mackenzie wears JOA Top and Lucca Couture Skirt available at No. 14 Boutique Artemis Design Co. Loafers available at Lex & Lynne Colette Malouf Cuffs Brother Wolf Faith Hope & Charity Anchor Pendant available at Chapel Hills Jewelry and Louis Anthony Jewelers OPPOSITE PAGE Maison KitsunĂŠ Top and Skirt Manolo Blahnik Booties Colette Malouf Headwrap
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Samantha Sleeper Dress Chanel suede sandal Yestadt Millinery headband and leather gloves.
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Shop the Look with Lex & Lynne
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Styling Tips with Lex & Lynne
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With Fall right around the corner, we are eager for plaid, lace, cashmere, jackets, cozy loungewear, and the like. Cooler months mean a variety of textures and layers for us at L&L; a chunky sweater over chiffon meets distressed denim and a hint of kilim and beaded bracelets.
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Shop with us at L&L for the perfect Fall looks! @lexandlynne
1 1. A rtemis Design Co. Kilim Cross-Body Wallet, $128 2. E my Mack Kara Black Booties, $640 3. R ebecca Taylor Embroidered Chiffon Dress, $595 4. R ebecca Taylor Static Print Dress, $495 5. O ne Teaspoon Pure Bleu Mid Hoodlums, $148 6. R ebecca Taylor Magnolia Floral Cup Top, $295 7. O ne by One Teaspoon Pacifica Junkyard Shorts, $125 8. R ebecca Taylor Alyssum Burnout Top, $275
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14 9. 3 60 Cashmere Jordana Sweater, $448 10. L&L Wrap Bracelet, $80 11. V elvet by Graham & Spencer Leather Tote, $297 12. D iane Von Furstenberg Rose Printed Silk Jersey Dress, $398 13. A rtemis Design Co. Baby Kilim Duffle, $268 14. E berjey Flynn polka-dot stretch-jersey pajama top, $65 and bottoms $50 15. 3 60 Cashmere Harieth Sweater, $448 16. 3 60 Cashmere Zorana Sweater, $402 17. L &L Signature Rosewood & Brass Bracelets, $60 18. E my Mack Megan Bronze Snake Print, $475
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* All products available at Lex & Lynne or www.lexandlynne.com
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1. @4moms_hq 2. @abbywarhola 3. @alwaysjudging 4. @cedarandsaw 5. @demeatria 6. @dianamisetic 7. @elenalaquatra 8. @highmaintenancepgh 9. @ijustine 10. @jacks424 11. @loves2shop4ue 12. @lucysykesrellie 13. @nataliebenci 14. @shopmidatlantic 15. @wepropelle 24
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MANIAC feature
W O M E N OF P O W E R WRITTEN BY MIA BENCIVENGA, PHOTOGRAPHY BY APRIL HUBAL H A I R B Y C AT I E R I TA C C O , M A K E U P B Y S H E L L I R O E L L S T Y L I S T S O F P H I L I P P E L U S I S A L O N S , W W W. P H I L I P P E L U S I . C O M
It is almost funny (but mostly exasperating) to think that despite being half of the population, women have had to work so hard just to be seen as equals. Though it may seem obvious that a woman can be anything and everything she wants to be, there are still many obstacles that women face when entering the work force, or just going through life. While double standards and stereotypes abound, sometimes it’s easy to be discouraged from pursuing your dreams. That’s why we here at Maniac want to show you the following amazing Women of Power. They are businesswomen, doctors, lawyers, artists, immigrants, mothers, wives, and daughters, and each has encountered her fair share of hardship both professionally and personally. Yet they have soldiered on, and in doing so, empower all of us with their strength and determination. 26
Dana Edwards Manatos Co-CEO, Edward Marc Brands
On if she feels like a Woman of Power: I am an equal – whether it is with my counterparts in the workplace or with my husband at home. The decisions that are made at our company are done by all of the executives equally by men and women. The decisions made at home are equally made by my husband and me. All of our home duties are split 50/50 so that I have the ability to put as much effort in to my job as my husband puts in to his job. To me, it is not about power, it is about equality. What has been her greatest accomplishment, either personally, professionally, or both: My greatest accomplishment to date was by the age of 23 I was working at the White House for the President of the United States. I flew around the world on Air Force One, I participated in Oval Office meetings, and I executed events such as the State Funeral for President Reagan, State of the Union Addresses, and Presidential travel around the world. None of these things would have been possible if I didn’t take a risk and step outside my comfort zone. 27
MANIAC feature Diana Misetic OWNER, LITTLE BLACK DRESS DESIGN STUDIO AND BOUTIQUE
On if she feels like a Woman of Power: Yes. I moved to the United States twenty-one years ago from a war-torn country in Europe. Starting a new life from scratch proved my strength. Sometimes I would take one step forward and two steps back, but the effort paid off. Today, after fifteen years of managing my business and designing beautiful clothing, I feel as though I have touched the lives of the many women who wear my dresses. Like me, my clients feel absolutely empowered, beautiful, and special. On what inspires her the most professionally and personally: Enjoying every new day is inspiration in itself. Routine, such as having my first morning coffee, getting ready for work, or driving, makes me creative. Sometimes we take those little opportunities for granted. As a fashion designer and artist, I am a very perceptive person. I am constantly moved by the colors, shadows, cultures, people, and architecture surrounding me. On how people can learn more about her and her business: Visit my website, www.dianamisetic.com, friend me on Facebook, and follow me on Instagram, @DianaMisetic!
Paulette Still OWNER & PRINCIPAL DESIGNER, POSY
On her secret to success: My formula has always been not to follow. Do your own thing. Don’t jump on other people’s ideas, no matter how great they are doing. Create your own ideas. Stop following people and know when to stop seeking approval from people. Also, kindness is one of my greatest powers. It takes effort to be nice. It takes selfassuredness and shows fearlessness. Too many women are afraid to be nice in business and the corporate world, for fear of being seen as vulnerable. Don’t be afraid to be nice. It is an attribute of the strong. A woman of power can rule with her head and her heart! On the greatest piece of advice she has ever received: My aunt used to tell me that if there was something I wanted or wanted to do in life, to write it down. She told me that that when I was 12-years old. I have all of those lists dating back to then. I am happy to report that I have done almost everything I have written down.
Dr. Nicole Chenet, DDS, DABDSM SLEEP APNEA DENTAL CENTER OF PITTSBURGH
What inspires her most professionally and personally: Loving what you do is a force towards success. I’m one of few dentists who treat sleep apnea and snoring, so I have the opportunity to work with a lot of amazing doctors in the area. Our outcomes are really impactful and collaborative. Her biggest challenge, either personally, professionally, or both: In order to earn my qualifications and certifications, it took a lot of travel during the time my children were young. I relied on the support of my parents and in-laws, and without their help I would have never been able to take my career and focus this far. Her secret to success: Self-discipline, determination, family, and humility. I never stop asking, “What can I do to better the outcome for myself and the patients?” I think the biggest element of my success is my ability to put myself in my patients’ shoes. When someone is sitting in the chair, I treat them just as I would my mother, sister, or myself. 28
MANIAC feature Victoria Jackman PROPERTY MANAGER, MORGAN MANAGEMENT
On if she feels like a Woman of Power: Yes, especially in my role as a Property Manager. I directly impact the desired living environments of my clients, which are very personal and important spaces. To work for a company that develops and manages more than 4,000 apartments within Pittsburgh and its surrounding areas is rewarding and impactful. On how her professional role has been affected by her gender (if at all): I am truly blessed to work in an industry which offers enormous growth potential for women. My motto is “Hire capable people and get out of their way,” and if I am leading by example then we all win. What her greatest accomplishment has been, either personally, professionally, or both: Besides my family, I have accomplished the ultimate goal many seek and never find: the ability to show kindness to each and every person I encounter. Remember, we are all human and have great qualities if we look closely. I have become involved with the Pittsburgh Kindness Initiative, which aims to make Pittsburgh the kindest city in the world, one smile at a time.
Courtney Murray PARTNER, REED SMITH LLP
On if she feels like a Woman of Power: Yes, absolutely. My brother and I were raised by a very strong single mother (talk about a woman of power!) and she instilled an inner confidence and independence in me at a very young age. The gift of that central truth allows me to feel powerful every day. On what inspires her the most professionally and personally: I am most inspired by others overcoming obstacles with a positive attitude, whether that’s having hope in the face of personal anguish or tackling a professional challenge with gusto. It inspires me to do the same in my own challenges and to recognize that there is always someone out there confronting a more difficult hurdle, often times with tremendous grace. Her secret to success: Not cutting corners. I am a true believer that doing the hard work is the most sure fire way to succeed. And even if others get there via a short cut, I am also certain that success is much sweeter after blood, sweat and tears.
Barbara Gambotto CEO, PRIMADONNA COLLECTION
What her biggest challenge has been so far: Leaving behind my beloved country for a wonderful, but very complicated, adventure. Professionally reinventing yourself is a continual challenge, but my dedication has produced five stores in less than three years. My dream is to see the Primadonna Collection in every city of the United States. The best piece of advice she has ever been given: For entrepreneurs like me, hold on to the hardest moments. Success cannot come from nothing without first understanding one’s own strengths and weaknesses. To young women who want to start their own businesses, I say to be brave and to dare. We all have fears: the fear to fail, or the fear of not measuring up to others. Don’t deny yourself the ideas which prevent so many people from fully living, or grasping their potential, and then be proud of all the effort. Her favorite thing about Pittsburgh: When I moved here, my garden was animated with creatures I could only admire at the zoo in Rome: deer, squirrels, chipmunks, skunks, and raccoons! 29
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JET SET: CAL-A-VIE HEALTH SPA
Aimons la Vie at Cal-a-Vie! BY SUSIE EMILY MEISTER DURHAM, PHOTOS COURTESY OFOF CAL-A-VIE HEALTH SPA AND PHOTOS COURTESY KAKSLAUTTANEN ARCTIC RESORT & VISITFINLAND.COM
Sometimes, as busy women, we don’t realize we need to relax—until we need to relax. As more of us become entrepreneurs, academics, and working mothers, it’s really no surprise that sometimes we just need to take a break—but we can’t always take that dream vacation to France, even when we desperately need it. But rolling through the valleys and fields of lavender and purple agapanthus surrounding Cal-a-Vie Health Spa in Vista, California, it feels just like you’ve landed in Provence—minus the jet-lag. Whether you book a three-, four-, or seven-day stay, from the French-inspired interior design to the homegrown gourmet cuisine, you’ll feel like you’re living your dream vacation without having to leave the US. 30
WHERE YOU’LL STAY Each morning, you’ll awake at sunrise in your own private rustic villa. Stepping onto the balcony, you’ll see the nearby sea’s mists still wafting over the lush valley, smell the wildflower fields below—bougainvillea, sweetheart roses, jasmine—mixed with windowsill flower boxes of petunias, begonias, and geraniums. Inside, the timeless French décor tells tales of the French countryside. “I love the craftsmanship of old world adornments in panels, mirrors, light fixtures,” says Terri Havens, Cal-a-Vie’s owner and the aesthetic genius behind all of its interior decorating. “Antiques tell a story of a bygone era.” In fact, Haven’s Francophile taste has been so praised by her guests that Cal-a-Vie has opened a boutique antique shop filled with rare items hand-picked in France by Haven and her husband, John—including Venetian mirrors, flowermotifed glass vases, and much more. Carol Ann Kelley-Elwell, Director of Marketing & Media Relations, jokes that between the antiques shop and the clothing boutique, “Guests come with an empty suitcase and leave with a full one!”
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MANIAC jet set
WHAT YOU’LL DO From saunas, massages, and beauty treatments to the 125+ available fitness classes, Cal-a-Vie offers enough variety to meet every woman’s goals, whether they are to detox, get fit, lose weight, or simply de-stress. The morning hours are filled with fitness courses, including hiking, yoga, and spinning, to get your blood flowing for the day. In the afternoon, Bath House professionals will massage the soreness out of your muscles and reenergize you with seaweed wraps, aromatherapy, yoga, and meditation. In the evening, guest lecturers talk on a variety of topics, including stress management, nutrition, and fitness—all over mocktails! (Of course, if you’re not feeling the scheduled activities, there are plenty of quiet retreats on the grounds, and even a labyrinthine stone circle to stroll through.)
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MANIAC jet set
WHAT YOU’LL EAT Remember how we mentioned homegrown gourmet cuisine? We mean homegrown. The entire seasonal menu features epicurean cuisine made from ingredients picked right from Cala-Vie’s own organic garden, greenhouse, orchard, and vineyard. “Being invested in the whole process, from seed to fruit, and going through the ebbs and flows of what nature does in the process translates into better taste,” says Cal-a-Vie’s Executive Chef Curtis Cooke. “You get the authentic, rich tastes of plants grown in their season—the best flavors there are.” Chef Cooke also hosts cooking demonstrations twice per week to teach guests how to eat and live healthier after Cal-A-Vie—and is adamant that cooking food grown from your own labor will lead to intuitive, mindful eating. “That personal investment of time and energy translates into something you’ve created, nurtured, encouraged. When you place those fresh, delectable items grown by your own hand [onto your plate], that is empowering.” www.cal-a-vie.com
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MANIAC feature columnists for opposing NYC newspapers, and Lucy and I reconnected at a party. I admired her fabulous orange jumpsuit, and she admired my recent novel Love Rehab. Lucy told me she had an idea for a novel. I kind of sighed because everyone has an idea for a novel. But I agreed to meet her the following week for French 75s at Cafe Gitane in the Jane Hotel. She told me the book she wanted to write was originally called Techbitch — she had me at Techbitch. I polished off my drink and said, “I want to write this book with you.” MM: How has the publishing industry changed? JP: About ten years ago, the industry was giving out book deals to bloggers like pedophiles give kids candy. But that didn’t work out, so I think we are seeing a return to paying for good books. I published my first three books with a very progressive house, Open Road, and I have to say that the amount of personal attention I got there as a baby author really helped me learn the ropes of both fiction and nonfiction book writing. I couldn’t be happier now, though, at Doubleday. I’m obsessed with our editor Jenny Jackson. In the past few years she did the most recent Bridget Jones novel and Dave Eggers’ The Circle.
M OV I N G AT T H E S PE E D O F “ BY T E ” An Interview with “Techbitch” Author Jo Piazza BY SARAH LOLLEY, PHOTOS COURTESY OF DOUBLEDAY
Intrepid traveler and award-winning journalist Jo Piazza is moving at the speed of light — or rather, at the speed of byte. Her recent book, The Knockoff, published by Doubleday, co-authored with elegant New York socialite Lucy Sykes, tells the story of a 40-something glamour magazine editor who finds herself awash with tech-savvy younger ladies; hence the term “techbitch” was born. The Knockoff, released in May 2015, has become an international bestseller. As managing editor of Yahoo Travel and author of Love Rehab, Jo brings the “techbitch” element to the story. Maniac managed to catch this busy woman midstream in the midst of a postengagement, cross-country move to California. MM: Where did you and Lucy Sykes meet and how did you come up with the idea for The Knockoff? JP: Lu and I have known of one another for years. I used to hang around with her brother Tom when he and I were both gossip 34
MM: Did you base the magazine Glossy from a particular magazine? JP: It’s a little Vogue and a little Lucky and a dose of Net-a-Porter. But at the end of the day, Glossy is sadly fictitious, even though we did occasionally wish it were real. The changes in the book are changes we are seeing in all industries and at all magazines. The digital takeover is a very real thing and so is ageism in the industry. MM: One of the beautiful things about the novel is how current it is. In fact, it takes place in the immediate future, during Spring New York Fashion Week 2016. Do you have any predictions for this coming Fashion Week? JP: We are definitely going to see more and more live streaming of shows. I think Periscope is going to be the biggest game changer at the upcoming fashion week, and I really can’t wait to see how the designers adapt their shows for it. MM: Who are your favorite designers? JP: I love Prabal, Rag & Bone, and Alexander Wang right now. If you want go behind the scenes of The Knockoff and learn what it means to be a “Techbitch”, visit Jo Piazza’s site to discover more about this trailblazing author. www.jopiazza.com
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MANIAC feature
Make Your Wedding Day POP
with The Pop Up Pittsburgh Wedding Co. BY STACY SKIAVO, PHOTOS COURTESY OF POP UP PITTSBURGH WEDDING CO.
Two people fall in love, decide to make the official declaration of unity with marriage, but have no interest in the months of planning and spending the thousands of dollars on a wedding. What to do? The Pop Up Pittsburgh Wedding Co. to the rescue! More elaborate than a courthouse wedding, but much more simple and cost effective than a typical wedding, it’s the perfect solution for the modern bride who wants to get hitched in style, and not suffer for it. Co-founders and trend-setters Tricia Derry and Colleen Chorney strive to make a Pop Up Wedding an unconventional but very attractive alternative to the average wedding. It is an intimate wedding with close friends and family that eliminates the stress of planning for the couple. They take care of everything; couples choose a venue from their list, a time slot, and the folks at The Pop Up Pittsburgh Wedding Co. will do the rest. “We offer a unique, stylish venue for your ceremony and celebration,” says Colleen Chorney, adding, “We will style the site with beautiful vintage furnishings, décor, and props. We also provide an officiant, a professional photographer, professional event coordinator, flowers, delicious cake, sparkling beverage station, and always one fun element of surprise!”
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Each celebration is 90 minutes long and welcomes 20 or less guests. To choose a Pop Up location, just access the site to see the available Saturdays and time slots. Previous weddings have been held at the The Pump House at the Waterfront and a vintage alley cottage in Wexford. New locations are popping up all the time like Studio AM (a cozy art studio and artistic residence of former Steelers Baron Batch and John Malecki), or if you’re looking for more of a rustic theme, try The Urban Barn in the Burgh PointBreezeway. Only making its debut in March of 2015, the duo saw a gap in the wedding market for this type of ceremony and jumped at the chance. “After being in the events industry for many years I realized there was not an existing company in Pittsburgh that was focused on non-traditional weddings; something that was going to cater to the ‘off-beat bride’ as opposed to the more traditional bride,” Derry explained.
For the right bride, choosing a Pop Up wedding can be highly beneficial. The experience provides a low-key and stress-free experience for the couple. Planning begins the minute a couple chooses a venue and then Pop Up handles the rest. All that is left for the couple is filing for a wedding license and sending out the invites. Venue options are announced about 2 months prior to the date, and on average 2-4 time slots are available for each date. While the typical Pop Up wedding is 90 minutes, the couples also have the option of choosing a Pop Up Plus wedding, which is a ceremony and a fewhours long reception. To make your special day “Pop!” book your own Pop Up wedding or for further information, visit www. thepopuppittsburghweddingco.com or call 412-735-9765.
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MANIAC feature The origin of the name was a natural discovery, Ziccarelli says, telling us, “I’m Greek and my husband’s Italian, and our son was the original Mediterranean Baby! He was the inspiration as I started to develop baby food recipes for him—but it’s become more than that.” A major theme you can find on her blog is that she believes that we need to start bringing the family back to the dinner table. “The one thing we see over and over again on the news is how the American family is falling apart,” she laments. She hopes that with the help of her blog, families will start eating together again, and start communicating more. Ziccarelli finds power in her faith, family, and her commitment to raising her children well. By sitting down, every day, consistently, to listen and share with each other’s thoughts, she believes she is doing just that, saying, “Children thrive in stability and continuity— and we can bring them those two things at the family table.”
Mediterranean Baby A Guide for the Foodie Family BY ALYSSA ANDRESS, PHOTOS BY ALAN ADAMS
She’s a lawyer, a blogger, and a mom. While that may seem like an overflowing plate to some people, Nicole Ziccarelli thinks it’s the perfect portion. With thousands of daily readers, she covers every aspect of her life on her blog Mediterranean Baby. 38
Her four children (all four and under!), love to help her out with making (and tasting) all of the dishes she includes on Mediterranean Baby. “I hope that they have this image of childhood with me in the kitchen with them because one of the most simple, but loving, things we can do for our family is feed them.” There is a cleverness to what this blogger does that other mommies are sure to appreciate—getting her children to eat well! “The more I include them in the recipes and tasting things, the more they’re going to eat them,” happily adding, “One of my twins loves capers! It’s just finding things that are going to attract them and make them try what you’re trying.” With her family’s background and family inspiring her work (she lists her mom as her biggest inspiration), recipes are always being listed. However, there’s more on her blog to explore. Nicole Ziccarelli now includes different sections that talk about her family
and parenting ideas as well as a “Notes from the Courtroom” section that allows her to share tips and tricks from her job as a family attorney. However, she is adamant that she never wants people to read the blog and feel as though they can’t measure up. “Every family has challenges,” she explains, “I don’t ever want it to appear that we have all of the answers and we’re perfect because that’s not the case.” However, it is in fact, a labor of love, saying, “My husband and I both hope that our actions are resonating with our children, and that we aren’t just talking the talk, we’re walking the walk.” It may surprise you hearing it come from a blogger, but when it comes to family, Nicole Ziccarelli has one key message for her readers, “Actions speak louder than words.” To read more on how you can get your family back to the table with tasty recipes and good advice, please visit www.mediterraneanbaby.com
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MANIAC music
RICH WHITE LADIES A Racket from a Different Bracket BY RACHEL SANZONE, PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILIO SANCHEZ
When you think of rich white ladies, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Suburbia? Trophy wives? Perhaps the phrase conjures the image of two blonde women in their forties, tastefully adorned in sparkling diamonds, toting different versions of oversized designer bags? Rich White Ladies, the rap duo of Scotty Rebel and Tokyo Diiva, aims to change your perception of what that term means. Or perhaps, the term was already hungry for reinvention. “We didn’t choose the name,” asserts Scotty Rebel. “The name chose us.” Rich White Ladies blew up when the music video for their song “Wimbledon” came out in April of this year. Though it’s set at a tennis court, the song and video aren’t about a polite day watching a sporting competition. Unsurprisingly, and despite their talent, it hasn’t been exactly easy for this young, black, female rap duo. People throw shade and hate at confident women, and the song “Wimbledon” is all about blocking it out, and serving it back. “When it comes to haters I laugh and pay them DUST,” says Rebel. As a result, “Me and Tok spend most of our time laughing together.” The duo stands against the status quo and aims to create their own reality. They like to give people an escape with their music, and to teach their fans not to take things so seriously. Their self-titled EP came out in March and it has been doing exceptionally well on iTunes. People are hungry for something original, uncontrived, and fun—which is everything they are. But despite what they’ve already accomplished, their journey is just beginning. “We’re finishing up our promo tour and getting ready to roll out with the start of the new album,” says Rebel. 40
When developing their music, Rich White Ladies has worked extensively with glam rockers by the name of Semi Precious Weapons, a band that has supported Lady Gaga on her many world tours. “We went to the studio with a bottle of Jack Daniels and that’s when the creative juices started flowing,” says Diiva. “Justin Tranter [lead singer of Semi Precious Weapons] is a visionary and we were very lucky to work not only with him but the whole band.” But it’s not all about the music for these two. They have their own sense of style and they own it. In fact, the duo finds following trends tacky; they go by other means when picking out their looks. “I’m usually inspired by how I’m feeling at the time, an era, or what character I’m obsessing over,” says Diiva. “I’m a mixture of Vivian from Pretty Woman and early nineties runway quite often.” It’s tough to categorize these ladies as they aren’t your typical pop duo. While Rebel does most of the crooning, Diiva doesn’t classify herself as a rapper, explaining, “I just have a lot to say and I articulate myself in a way that seems to rhyme.” Did we mention Diiva met God? “She was awesome.” Whether you love them, or love to hate them, Rich White Ladies bring a racket in a different bracket. Not sure what that means? Take a listen to “Wimbledon” and you can thank us later. To catch up on all things Rich White Ladies, follow them on twitter @richwhiteladies
541 BEAVER ST, SEWICKLEY, PA 15143 | (412) 259-8847 | WWW.COCOTHE.COM
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MANIAC fashion
#Friendzies KRISTI WEARS MOTHER Denim Cotton Citizen Tee Smythe Jacket Cydwoq Level Shoe Rebecca Lankford Horn Necklace Studebaker Torque Gold Necklace RAEN Optics Sunglasses All available at Kristi Boutique BRIANNE WEARS White skinnies & navy jacket Forever Unique Pulp Moto Jacket BB Dakota Heathered Seamed Tee All available at No. 14 Boutique
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Running your own business is no small, nor easy, feat. Yet each of these women make it look effortless. Alexis Corry of Lex & Lynne, Brigitte and Christina Nguyen of Ragged Row, Brianne Conley of No. 14 Boutique, and Kristi Moss of Kristi Boutique came together to celebrate their mutual love of fashion and to commiserate each other as fellow female artists, entrepreneurs, and business owners. We here at Maniac are infinitely grateful to these ladies for making style havens for us and our readers; but these women do more than just run their boutiques. Their example empowers other women to take charge of their own future and follow their instincts and create something where nothing was there before. In turn, we can empower them, and encourage them to continue their great work by shopping at any one of their fabulous stores. 43
LEX WEARS Diane von Furstenberg Dress Emy Mack Shoes Lex & Lynne Jewelry All available at Lex & Lynne
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KRISTI WEARS MOTHER A Line Skirt Inhabit Sweater Bittersweet Designs Moonstone with Druzy Necklace RAEN Optics Sunglasses All available at Kristi Boutique
CLOTHING
BRIANNE WEARS BB Dakota Kendal Jacket Glamorous Basic White Tee BY POSH MONKEY JOA Scalloped Edge Sweater Skirt All available at No. 14 Boutique 45
CHRISTINA WEARS Vimmia Chakara Tie Tank NUX V Crop Pant Cindy Urbach Jewelry Swell Bottle All available at Ragged Row BRIGITTE WEARS Vimmia Chakara Wrap Front Tee Vimmia Printed Crop Legging All available at Ragged Row
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KRISTI WEARS Jakett Dress Pas De Calais Jacket Project 11 Leather Belt and Calf Hair Buckle RAEN Optics Sunglasses Cydwoq Kitten Heels All available at Kristi Boutique BRIANNE WEARS BB Dakota Guinevere Floral Coat Blank NYC Shredded Boyfriends Jeans Glamorous Basic White Tee All available at No. 14 Boutique
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LEX WEARS Velvet by Graham & Spencer Vest LNA Dress Artemis Design Co. Shoes and Handbag Lex & Lynne Jewelry All available at Lex & Lynne CHRISTINA WEARS AG Jeans Top MOTHER Denim Boyfriend Jean Miansai Modern Cuff All available at Ragged Row BRIGITTE WEARS Raquel Allegra Top AG Jeans Tank JBrand MidRise Capri Clare Vivier Oversized Clutch Cindy Urbach Jewelry All available at Ragged Row
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Lawrenceville is amazing because the people who live here want to better their neighborhood. The community thrives on supporting local businesses and the business owners all support each other. We couldn't have asked for a better place to be.
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-Brianne Conley, owner of No. 14 Boutique
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I love walking to work and being surrounded by like-minded business owners, and inspirational boutiques and storefronts. Being part of a community who’s support and encouragement is tangible makes me proud to be a business owner in Sewickley. --Alexis Corry, owner of Lex & Lynne
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CHRISTINA WEARS Raquel Allegra Poncho Raquel Allegra Hi Lo Pullover Citizens of Humanity Denim BRIGITTE WEARS Strom Denim Hooded Coat Raquel Allegra Oversized Tunic All available at Ragged Row
LEX WEARS Diane von Furstenberg Romper available at Lex & Lynne
LEX WEARS Skull Cashmere Sweater One Teaspoon Denim Emy Mack Flats Lex & Lynne Jewelry Will Leather Goods Wallet All available at Lex & Lynne 49
MANIAC beauty
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FALL Beauty FAV O R I T E S BY KATIE BINETTI
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Summer was fun, and our sun-kissed skin looked better than ever, but fall is quickly approaching. This means that many of us will be switching up our beauty routine. Fall generally calls for darker tones and rustic colors, but this year we are embracing pink pouty lips and naturally radiant complexions. Maniac has gathered some of the best new products to help you transition through the seasons with an effortless girl-next-door look. So let that beautiful summer skin linger as long as possible with some help from these skin nourishing creams, and add a subtle pop of color to the face and lips with these fall beauty favorites.
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1. Hard Candy Glamoflauge Invisible Camouflage Foundation 2. Tarte Amazonian Butter Lipstick in Pink Peony 3. Smart Spa Exotic Mango Sugar Scrub 4. Mood Matcher Luxe Twist Stick in Dark Pink 5. Milani Lipstick in Matte Darling 6. Milani Powder Blush in American Beauty Rose 7. Renessence Follicle Forever Serum 8. Tarte Energy Noir Clay Palette 9. RoC速 SMOOTH PERFEXION速 Instant Line Corrector 10. Tommy Bahama St. Kitts for Women 11. Retinol Anti-Aging Facial Oil
2. Whish Body Butter 1 13. Stowaway Extreme Lash Mascara in Black 14. Stowaway Radiant Complexion Beauty Balm Cream 15. Eylure Volume 070 Eyelashes 16. Veneffect Firming PhytoLift Serum 17. Urban Decay Matte Revolution Lipstick in Stark Naked 18. Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Styling Creme 19. Arrojo Whipped Treatment 20. Living Proof PHD Dry Shampoo 21. Urban Decay Brow Beater in Neutral Brown 22. Clean & Clear Morning Burst Facial Cleanser 23. Mineral Fusion Volumizing Mascara in Midnight 51
MANIAC style profile
STYLE PROFILE
KIYA TOMLIN WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY CODY NICOLE WIEGAND
As a petite child with no fashion-forward store to shop at, Kiya Tomlin learned how to sew. By the age of eleven she began making clothes for herself and everyone around her, telling me, “You name the person, they probably had an ‘original Kiya’ design!” As an adult, she took her skills to the next level when she opened a custom design business specializing in wedding gowns and formal wear, which she ran for a number of years despite moving several times. The Tomlin family relocated to Pittsburgh in 2006 when husband Mike Tomlin accepted the head coaching position for the Steelers, and although the move may have been tough at first, Kiya loves living in this city and has truly made a name for herself. The mom of three worked from home until moving 52
into a separate design space a few years ago, and had to trade sweatpants for what she calls ‘real clothes.’ “I needed something that would get me through the day comfortably and fashionably AND be able to throw in the washing machine. Voila! Sweatshirt dresses!”In the fall of 2014 the first collection of Uptown Sweats by Kiya Tomlin debuted. The stylish business owner began doing trunk shows and wholesaling her creations to other boutiques. However, this past April she opened her own store and design space in East Liberty where people can see, try on and purchase the complete collection. Maniac Magazine: How would you describe Uptown Sweats and all that the brand has to offer? Kiya Tomlin: Comfortable, confident, and beautiful. That’s my tagline. Uptown Sweats by Kiya Tomlin are elegantly reimagined sweat suits for the modern woman. They are inspired by the energy and aspirations of today’s generation--designed for maximum versatility and ease of care. It’s where style, function and luxurious comfort intersect.
MM: How do you balance it all with family and a career? KT: I don’t balance it, I integrate it. I incorporate my business into my family life by allowing my kids to see how I am trying to build my business: mistakes, successes and all. It provides good business and life-learning opportunities for them and allows them to know that it takes a lot of work on my part and a lot of cooperation on their part to be able to make it work. They really are better for it. But in all honesty, I just do the best I can. MM: How would you describe your personal style? KT: I am a total chameleon! I love change and experimentation. The one common thread, though, is comfort and an “easy” aesthetic…nothing too fussy.
creating silhouettes that are vastly different from the basic human form. And the intricacy of the pattern work is pure magic. MM: What is one piece in your closet you could not live without? KT: My sweatpants, definitely!
MM: Who is your style icon? KT: I love Victoria Beckham. Very clean, very simple, very feminine. Classic, but with a bit of interest. She has a definite aesthetic and an identifiable brand. Even down to the pout! Love it!
MM: What do you have in the works in the upcoming months? KT: Aside from expanding the distribution of Uptown Sweats, I have partnered with an equestrian apparel company to design a collection of riding jeans that will crossover into the broader, mainstream market. The brand is “Kiya Tomlin for 2kGrey” and they are the most comfortable jeans I have ever worn!
MM: Who is your favorite designer and why? KT: American designer, Rick Owens, and Japanese designer, Shingo Sato. They both design very three-dimensionally,
Discover the ultimate combination of chic and comfort with Uptown Sweats by Kiya Tomlin by visiting and uptownsweats.com and stopping by the space located at 5983 Broad Street Pittsburgh, PA 15206. 53
MANIAC shops
Kate Spade One in a Million Initial Pendant Necklace available at Nordstrom, $58
Yoana Baraschi Harlem Fringe Sway Dress brand available at e.b. Pepper, $249
Nicolette Jewelry Sculptures Dragon Flower Collection Stackable Bangles
Manolo Blahnik Ankle Tie d’Orsay Pump available at Nordstrom, $745
ASOS Coat in Patched Faux Fur, $164 Ballet Beautiful Tulle Skirt from net-a-porter.com $165 Eugenia Kim Natalia Headband available at alekka.com, $100
Rebecca Taylor Sonic Garden V-Neck Dress available at Lex & Lynne, $375
Brian Atwood Donald Robertson Alis Lips Printed Canvas Pumps available on net-a-porter.com, $995
Ruthie Davis LoveYou Pumps, $698
CARRIE BRADSHAW Valentino Rockstud Flap Clutch available at barneys.com, $1,695
Kate Spade 2016 17-Month Large Agenda, $36
ModCloth Verbs and Towns Skirt, $59.99 54
Kusmi x Jean Paul Gaultier Prince Vladimir Tea
Elizabeth and James Mongolian Iris Coat, $965
Rebecca Minkoff New York Sweatshirt, $88
Eugenia Kim Max available at alekka.com, $300
Mango Check Cotton Shirt, $44.99
Topshop Belted ‘70s Jacket and Flared Pants, $205 for outfit
MANIAC shops
BB Dakota Lander Jacket available at No. 14 Boutique $88
Citizens of Humanity Sasha Twist Flare available at Ragged Row, $248.
Alexa Chung for AG Jeans The Laura Vest Dark Night, $198 Rebecca Minkoff Jones Dress, $448
MOTHER Denim The Skinny Not Skinny Fray available at Kristi Boutique, $275
Mara Hoffman Jacquard Mini Turtleneck Dress brand available at e.b. Pepper, $298
H&M V-Neck Sweater, $24.99
Velvet by Graham & Spencer Candela African Print Tunic Top available at Lex & Lynne, $139
Rebecca Minkoff Crystal Top, $198
CHARLIE’S ANGELS H&M Satin Blouse, $29.99
ZARA Printed Jumpsuit Dress, $49.90
Scotch & Soda Cropped Shirt available at Ragged Row, $139
Rebecca Taylor Embellishment Chiffon Top available at Lex & Lynne, $325 Mango Textured Jacquard Dress, $99.99
ZARA Cropped Overshirt, $49.90
Rails Clothing Hunter Shirt in Ultra Violet available at Kristi Boutique, $138
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MANIAC shops
Miansai Classic Screw Cuff available at Ragged Row, $200
No. 25 Portfolio Port Front
Miss Selfridge Stripe Collar Wrap Shell, $44
Yoana Baraschi Fast Track See-Through Trench brand available at e.b. Pepper, $509 Elizabeth and James Bebe Coat, $765
ASOS Diagonal Cape with Leather Look Trim, $72
BARE Portfolio Pack in Midnight available at Emy Mack, $395 Elizabeth and James Caspar Pants, $325
Miss Selfridge Glam Black Snake Court Shoes, $68
ASOS Large Dial Boyfriend Watch, $45
OLIVIA POPE
Tory Burch Heavy Silk Bow Top, $395
Emy Mack Alex Kitten Heel, $485
Raquel Allegra Poncho available at Ragged Row, $598
Emy Mack Andrea D’Orsay Pump in Cream Python, $485
Raquel Allegra Poncho available at Ragged Row, $598 Mango Long Cotton Coat, $89.99 56
Tod’s Medium Cape Leather Tote available at Nordstrom, $2095
Boucle Harrington Jacket available at Topshop.com, $195 for outfit
Kate Spade Raelyn Sunglasses, $170
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MANIAC feature
FROM BEDROOM TO
BOUTIQUE BUILDING THE ULTIMATE CLOSET BY MIA BENCIVENGA, PHOTOS BY APRIL HUBAL
You should always dress for the job you want, and if you want to be a Woman of Power you should make sure to look like your fiercest and best self at all times. Gone are the days when your spare bedroom became a default future nursery—now it’s your time. Show yourself some love by starting off each day with the custom walk-in closet of your dreams created for you by the people at Closets by Tom. Our Editor-in-Chief, April Hubal, made the decision to go to Tom Ferri, the man behind Closets by Tom, and he gave her the closet of a lifetime. He added cabinets with Flemish glass (to soften the look but still allow a transparent view of what is stored behind it) to house her purses and
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Functionality is always in the back of my mind when designing a space because let’s face it, the purpose of a closet is to store clothes!
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clothes, slanted shoe shelves, an island with a bank of drawers that includes two pull-out velvet lined jewelry trays, decorative fluted columns (to break up the units while adding beauty and structure) with hidden pull-out valet rods, a low bench for our canine cover girl Chloe, and so much more. Tom believes that every closet space is personal and unique, telling us, “Functionality is always in the back of my mind when designing a space because let’s face it, the purpose of a closet is to store clothes! But at the same time, it should be beautiful to invoke a sense of calm and organization.” Not only does Closets by Tom provide women with the tools to better organize their homes, they provide them with a renewed sense of order and confidence. If you’re a Woman of Power looking to invest in your present and future fabulousness, let Closets by Tom be your guide. To learn more about how you can make your closet into your own personal boutique, please visit www.closetsbytom.com, call 724733-8530, or email tom@closetsbytom.com
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MANIAC feature
Q&A WITH ERIN SHRIVER
Kaftan Queen BY APRIL HUBAL
Erin Shriver is not your typical working mom; she is an artist and an entrepreneur whose success will have her sitting in the sun for years to come. Not that she doesn’t get enough of the real thing—when not at her beach house in Kamalame Cay in the Bahamas, this Pittsburgh native, along with her husband and young daughter, are currently calling Sarasota, Florida home. She was once the head of a bath and body company, when about a decade ago Erin’s passion for art and fashion came roaring back. After lots of hard work and experimentation, and plenty of love and encouragement from her husband, her new business Indigo Palm (which gets its namesake from their home in Kamalame Cay) is finally off the ground, selling her beautiful hand-dyed sarongs, kaftans, and other gorgeous pieces. Erin sat down to tell us all about 60
her craft, and what the future holds for this kaftan queen. Maniac Magazine: In terms of clothing or fashion, what formal training have you had? Or are you self taught? Erin: I am totally self taught. I never intended to get into fashion, I just wanted to create art initially.
paintings will also be reproduced on fabric for home decor and beach sarongs in the future. I am also still working with private clients developing custom home decor upon request.
MM: What inspired you to get into fashion? ES: I began making intricately hand-dyed charmeuse sarongs over 11 years ago and slowly and methodically honed my skills and am now re-launching with a more cohesive vision for what the Indigo Palm lifestyle brand looks like. The inspiration comes from our visits to Kamalame Cay in the Bahamas. I’ve never been fussy when it comes to fashion and I wanted the designs to reflect the barefoot chic lifestyle that we live.
MM: What do most of your clients say about your kaftans? ES: The kaftans have received amazing feedback so far. In just one month, I have been approached to supply our original white India inspired kaftan in six stores including one larger resort wear chain. What I love about kaftans is not only the chic comfort, but also the various size ranges that can fit into one of our one-size kaftans.
MM: Can you tell us a little bit about the design process and how exactly your silks work? ES: The design process typically starts with my sketch book. After sketching, I will often start painting using water color, Gouache, acrylics, and other mediums. The hand-designed pieces are all done with dyes including the screen prints so as not to change the hand (feel) of the fabric. Dyes are thickened with seaweed to produce the screen prints and block prints while un-thickened dyes are used for much of my painting, which lends itself to the watercolor effect achieved in many of my silk pieces. I also utilize traditional batik in some of my work as well as natural plant dyes such as Indigo, of course. MM: Your designs are so versatile. Can you tell us what collections you have in the works? ES: I will be working closely with my sewing team to add two dresses, lounge pants, and additional kaftan styles. In a turn of events, the canvas art “Stella” that I created for the house has inadvertently created quite a buzz from Pittsburgh to Miami so I will be working on adding additional pieces for sale as time allows. It’s likely that the
MM: Where do you see yourself in three years? ES: Well, considering that we have recently received requests for merchandise at stores in six US cities, in addition to the Bahamas, I see Indigo Palm expanding exponentially in the coming years. The next step will be finding a larger space to house production with additional employees. I have more immediate plans to expand into pre-teen resort wear that matches the relaxed sophistication of the adult garments. If you desire beautifully dyed and styled outfits, please visit www.indigopalmsshop.com. If visions of Kamalame Cay are calling out to you, you can actually stay at Erin’s gorgeous home, which you can view here: www.indigopalmbahamas.com 61
that asks about a person’s symptoms as well as personal and family health history. When the results come back, usually in two to three weeks, Dr. Liang will review them with the patient, explaining the issues and what may be causing them and what may help. “We urge our patients to work with their primary care physician and us to get the optimal results.” According to Dr. Liang, skincare is one area that proves that beauty truly begins on the inside. He says that using moisturizers at a young age have consequences that go deeper than you think. Young people who start using moisturizers are actually tricking their deeper skin cells, the keratinocytes, into believing that they don’t need to make as much young skin and the skin does not “turn over” as frequently as before. Therefore, using a skincare line that stimulates collagenelastin and creates an internal hydrating barrier (like fresh-faced children have) allows your skin to recreate young, healthy skin. The ZO skincare line, created by Zein Obagi, is just such a system. It is safe, effective, and the only skincare line that Dr. Liang carries. Yet even with healthy eating, exercise, and the proper care of your skin, you may still have problems. According to Dr. Liang, now it is okay to look at other options. “You can’t fight your hormones, so once you have done everything possible to optimize your health, and genetics are still creating problem areas such as your waist or saddlebags, then it’s time to consider plastic surgery.”
BECOMING YOUR BEST SELF WITH
DR. MARC LIANG BY ALYSSA ANDRESS
Dr. Marc Liang, one of the premier aesthetic plastic surgeons in Pittsburgh, is not only skilled and talented, he has also created a comfortable and positive environment for his patients. Yet what may come as a surprise to most of our readers is that Dr. Liang does not recommend plastic surgery as the first line for helping his patients. Instead, he believes that his patients need to become their best physical self by taking care of their inside before seeking options for the outside. “Diet and exercise are at the core of anti-aging, with hundreds of studies proving that no matter what you do to take care of the outside of your body, if you don’t take care of the inside, your results will not be optimal. My job is to help patients from a dietary and workout standpoint. Depending on their age, and how well they are progressing with their diet and workout regimens, we may suggest hormone testing.” This hormone testing begins with a detailed 12-page questionnaire 62
This is also true of the aging face, which is the majority of Dr. Liang’s practice. Botox and filler are meant to put off surgery as long as possible, but there comes a point where they no longer work and it is time for surgery. When it is time to tackle problem areas, there are currently more non-invasive procedures than ever. “It’s a consumer driven market and many people don’t want the downtime of surgery. Vanquish is a non-invasive fat-dissolution procedure which is not painful (it uses radio frequency to target fat cells) and actually causes apoptosis (cell-death), which leads to long-lasting results.” Though the product is currently made specifically for the waist, Liang says that the FDA may make it available for the thighs soon as well. However, he brings everything back to working on the inside first, saying, “You have to watch what you eat and exercise, which you would do along with every single procedure.” He closes with some words to the wise, saying, “If you want to enhance your looks, fix what you can fix on your own, or with our help, and then you may jump into surgical or non-surgical modalities.” With measured advice, and a practice that puts the health of the patient above all else, it is easy to see why Dr. Liang is the most popular choice among Pittsburgh women in need of advice and knowledge in regards to their health and beauty. To learn more please visit www.marcdliangmd.com
MANIAC advice
The Relationship with YOURSELF BY CHRYS PERKINS
Of all the relationships we cultivate in our lifetime, the most important one is with yourself. No matter how many people you surround yourself with, at the end of the day the only person who can truly make you happy is you! I know for some of you it may sound silly to focus on yourself, or you may feel as though it’s the people in your life that make you truly happy. But get this, you made yourself truly happy by choosing to be around those that make you feel that way! It’s true, sometimes we make decisions that cause us to feel unhappy, so then it is our responsibility to respond by pushing forward, accepting ourselves, and not wallowing in our mistakes. The key to happiness and empowerment is self-love. Knowing how to love yourself is the ultimate tool to have in life. In order to have the best relationship with yourself, you must confront yourself and accept who you are. Put your focus toward all the things you are and not on the things you are not. If you want to change things you don’t like about yourself, you have all the power to do so. A lot of what stops us from fully committing to loving ourselves is fear. The path to self-doubt is always easier than the one to selfpraise, so it may be a struggle at first. You may not feel great about yourself, but don’t let that feeling consume you. Make the choice to change your habits and patterns of thinking and believe that you will conquer the negativity in the end. No one is perfect—and thinking that way will only cause you to be unkind to yourself.
How you treat yourself is important and influences the rest of your life. The way you treat yourself is how others will treat you. The golden rule isn’t just a way to conduct your relationships with others, it’s also what you must do in order to have a good relationship with yourself. Having self-worth and self-respect starts with self-love. Despite what you may believe, no one can help you attain those things except for you. Self-love comes from doing things that make you feel happy inside and growing from mistakes by making better choices in the future. It may be difficult to understand that it’s important to make time and space for you but it’s completely essential for your own wellbeing. Don’t get lost in a sea of relationships with others and neglect yourself. You must not forget about your own needs and tend to everyone else’s. You are the maker of your standards and boundaries. Do not be afraid to stand up for them! Alone time is very important. It’s training for how to accept yourself and be your own champion. The more you like yourself and work on the relationship with yourself, the more others will respect you. Trust your instincts, don’t speak badly about yourself, and remember your needs and desires matter, too. Take time alone to indulge in what you love to do and work on being kind to yourself. Access to self-love is not only a tool that will help you survive, it’s the pathway to living a self-actualized, happy and healthy life. It allows you to be your best advocate, your greatest support system, and your finest confidant. Chrys Perkins has been the go-to person for relationship advice for years. She is finishing her M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy at NorthCentral University. What fascinates her most about relationships is how and why humans connect with one another. Her best piece of advice: “Communication is everything!” 63
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MM : How do you stay young at heart? CP: My kids. I adore them and they are the reason I breathe. My oldest daughter is 19 and keeps me up on all the new music and trends. My 12-year-old daughter is my rock star and has moxie and confidence that I wish I had at that age. Last but not least, my 8-year-old son is the one that keeps me moving. When I’m with them I feel like I’m 18 all over again. MM : What makes you most happy? CP: Working in the studio. When I’m there that is my time. I paint because of the absolute joy that it brings me. There is a satisfaction that runs through me when I complete a painting or any piece of art for that matter. It’s a personal thing that nourishes my soul.
Carolyttni Piero
BEAUTY AT EVERY AGE BY CODY NICOLE WIEGAND, HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LACEY HANES OF PHILIP PELUSI SALONS
Carolyn Pierotti is the epitome of today’s modern lady. She balances work and family as a devoted wife and mother, talented artist, and working woman. She’s also a free spirit, classic cool-girl, and beautiful on the inside and out. We first met Carolyn in a crowded room at a popular event. It wasn’t her tall stature that made her stand out, but her youthful, joyous presence. So what is her secret? We just had to know, because after all, forty is the new twenty, and Carolyn is killing it. M a n i a c M a g a z i n e : W hat do e s your b e aut y routine consis t of ? Carolyn Pierotti: Every day I’m up and moving at 5:30 am and start off with a huge glass of water. I really think hydration is the number one key to healthy skin. My face regimen is really simple—Aveeno soap and water, Aveda Tourmaline Charged Hydrating Crème in the morning, and Nerium AD Age Defying Treatment at night. I use Almay products when it comes to makeup and try to keep it simple. I’ve found now that I’m getting older, the less I use the better I look. I go to the gym four times per week, which keeps me strong and feeling good. I also stay away from injecting my face. I’m okay with growing old gracefully…. like a fine wine! M M : What is the one product you could not live without? CP: I would love to say that I use really expensive creams and potions, but I don’t. I should buy stock in Nivea because I use it every day after I shower.
MM: So how do you balance being a mom of three, an artist, Exhibitions Chair, mentor at Carlow University, and Vice President of the 1000+ patient practice at the Anti-Aging & Longevity Center? CP: It’s not easy, but there is something to be said for time management. I finished my degree in 2014 and was a fulltime student. If you manage your time efficiently, you can get it done. I’ve had several exhibitions over the city. It takes determination and grit. I also make time for myself, which is key. Without it, I’d go mad! M M : If you could go back, what would tell your 2 0 - y e a r- o l d s e l f a b o u t b e a u t y a n d c o n f i d e n c e ? CP: I was so incredibly insecure when I was young. I was the wallflower, tall and skinny. I think I would tell myself the same thing that I tell my girls. Embrace your body; embrace who you are and what you love. I hope that when I’m gone, that will be the one lesson that they remember. Love yourself and everything else will fall into place. MM : Where do you see yourself in five years? CP: I currently live in the North Side and I would like to share my love of the arts with the community there. My dream is to have an art space where artists can exhibit, do workshops, and share their knowledge with the community. Where kids can come in and hang out, draw, paint, and have access to materials. I want it to be a place where the arts are accessible and not intimidating. I think that’s where I want to be in five years, sitting in my gallery having coffee and talking with the folks passing by about how good it feels to be finally living my dream. To see Carolyn’s work and true artistic talent go to carolynpierotti@pittsburghsocietyofartists.org and check out her painting “The Conversation”, which has been accepted into the Pittsburgh Society of Artists 50th Anniversary Exhibition opening on November 13th at the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts.
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MANIAC feature
MM: If a young professional woman wants to achieve the same level of success that you have had, what should she do? BL: Whether female or male, you need the “Four Ds” to be successful: Discipline, Determination, Dedication, and Desire. MM: What is the biggest professional challenge that you have faced, and how have you overcome it? BL: Years ago, after having my first baby, I was interviewed at a particular agency by two male managers. The first question they asked was, “What have you done besides baking cookies and having babies?” I got up from my chair, told them, “Thank you, but this is not the place for me,” and the rest is history. MM: What keeps you motivated to maintain your current level of excellence? BL: Well, I am always looking to improve and to grow. I love to challenge myself academically. I look at other professions and try to see what I can take from them in order to improve my performance as a realtor. MM: Who are the women who have inspired you? BL: My mother, Bogomila, who is presently writing two books and working on the production of two art exhibits on the Impressionist Painters and Mysticism. She is a strong woman who speaks her mind and expects everyone to reach their fullest potential.
BONNIE LOYA:
Discipline, Determination, Dedication & Desire BY MIA BENCIVENGA, PHOTOS COURTESY BONNIE LOYA
For Bonnie Loya, Coldwell Banker’s realtor extraordinaire and the #1 Sales/Listing Agent in the Peter’s Township Office since 2004, being a Woman of Power means living life to its fullest and striving for excellence in everything she does. Receiver of the International Presidents Circle Award, she is also a Certified International Property Specialist, an Accredited Seller’s Representative, an Accredited Buyer’s Representative, and a Certified Negotiation Expert. Bonnie hopes that by welcoming every challenge, she will help other women move forward professionally through her own example. She sat down with Maniac to give us a scoop on the woman behind the amazing work ethic. MM: How did you find your path? Is this something you always aimed to do? BL: I am not sure that becoming a realtor was always a career goal, but I believe it was my destiny. I always loved the idea of running my own business, but I was not sure what to do. I asked my father for advice, and he told me that in order to be successful in business you need to provide a service or product that everyone needs. Since everyone needs a place to live, he suggested that I become a realtor. So that’s what I did!
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My dear friend, Kim Bunner, who died from terminal breast cancer. She never stopped living and helping people. She constantly maintained a positive attitude. She lived more in her forty-seven years than most people live in a hundred. I keep a picture of her as a screen saver on my phone. Whenever I am frustrated, I look at it and remember how she would say, “Quit whining and PULL UP your Big Girl Panties!” I laugh and then get on my way. My sister, Edwina is also inspirational. Two years ago, she was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer. She has two children, two dogs, and a husband. She never quit working as a teacher. Also, she won a National Excellence in teaching award for her work at that time. During her treatment, she lost her hair. I told her, “God made only so many perfect heads…the rest they put hair on!” To learn more about Bonnie Loya, please visit: www.bonnieloya.com
Luxury Homes Specialist Kim Marie Angiulli:
Finding Your Dream Home BY INDIGO BALOCH, PHOTOS COURTESY OF KIM MARIE ANGIULLI
Kim Marie Angiulli is an impressive woman to say the least. As Coldwell Banker’s leading woman in the North Hills Office, she was their Rookie of the Year with nearly $10M in sales in 2011, and was hence given the President’s Award for Excellence. Overall, she is consistently in the top 3% of realtors nationwide. Her passion is to serve her clients’ best interest in the luxury real estate market whether purchasing or selling a fine residence. A Pittsburgh native, this Luxury Homes Specialist purchased her first investment property when she was just twenty one years old, telling me, “I bought a historical mansion and restored it and I fell in love with real estate. That was the beginning.” Her passion is also interior design, travel, spa destinations and art. She has a magazine Kim Marie’s Home by Design where she shares her passion with others. Her key to success has been focusing on client services and she pledges to create an experience where passion and purpose come together effortlessly. When Kim Marie has her first meeting with clients, it acts as an in-depth meet and greet to begin the search. “We need to understand their interests—what are their hobbies? Are they interested in horses, golf, playing tennis, pursuing private education? We also consider what their commute times will be, and even their favorite dining spots,” she explains. Besides her work for Coldwell Banker, Kim is an active member at Treesdale Golf & County, where she currently sits on the Membership Committee and was formerly the Board of Governor and Social Committee Chair. She supports Ladies Hospital Aid Society (LHAS), The Glimmer of Hope Foundation— which conducts research for breast cancer—and most recently became a supporter for Camp Erin, an organization founded for children who lost a parent that her husband supports. On top of all this, she is married, has three children and two grandchildren who refer to her as “Nana.” Kim Marie manages to make the most of her time with them by simply starting her day early and making use of an itinerary. She says organizing everything the evening before gives her a strong advantage, wisely stating “Organization allows you to operate from a position of strength!” To learn more about this woman of power, please visit her website www. kimmariesellsluxuryrealestate.com or check out her Facebook page, www.facebook.com/KimMarieREALTOR 67
CHRISTINA
ZERVANOS
PR Maven, Storyteller, World Traveler, Trailblazer BY INDIGO BALOCH, PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHRISTINA ZERVANOS, LOGO DESIGN BY ARIANE HAAS
Christina Zervanos has made a name for herself as a PR maven in The Big Apple for a variety of reasons, with the foremost being that she is a great storyteller, and wise beyond her years. More than a desk job, she sees Public Relations as a chance to be a worldly ambassador for each of her clients. It’s this approach that makes her work so unique and her voice so important. After completing college, she traveled the world, becoming more conscious of how culturally aware she was in her daily life. She bounced between Milan, Florence, and Barcelona before taking off to India and Thailand. When she returned to the United States, she worked in the bustling West Coast City of Dreams: Los Angeles. However, it wasn’t long before her wanderer’s heart began aching for travel again. She took on a job in Paris, working as the Director of Media and Press Relations for ICU—a platform for independent designers—never mind that she didn’t speak a lick of French. The experience rewarded her greatly. Shortly after she was recruited to LaunchSquad in New York City—a traditionally tech PR firm that wanted to expand its lifestyle division. With her help, they launched UK shoe and accessory retailer Kurt Geiger on the East and West Coast. Only two years later she would be working for Cashman & Associates, launching designers like Julia Haart and working with retailers like Mitchell & Ness Nostalgia Co. Eventually, it came time for Christina to shine on her own. Currently, she works with clients like designer Kristina George and AHAlife—keeping up her personal motto of “international exposure with a boutique atmosphere.” While she came to New York City under the wing of an established PR firm, working alone comes with new obstacles as well as new benefits. Rather than sending out hundreds of emails every day looking for people to work with, Christina chooses carefully. “You need to really understand the power of identity,” Christina explains, as she is a firm believer in having a story to tell and a point of view. “In a place saturated with opportunity, severe competition and distraction, you need to know what you stand for and be cemented in your vision.” Christina’s unique outlook on what will make a client successful is no doubt the result of years of hard work, travel, and self-discovery. When asked for some advice for fellow women trudging through their own career ambitions and dreams, she doles out this very true, and very wise tidbit, “Confidence and arrogance are separated by a thin line.” But how can someone navigate that fine 68
line? “A vision backed by intellect encourages respect.” Finally, though it is certainly at times overwhelming and difficult, she maintains that New York really is the place to be for the big dreamers. Every day you’re constantly meeting new people from all around the world, each with their own story. Or as Christina simply says, “New York, for me, inspires.”
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MANIAC event
Maniac Magazine Presents: MUTTS & MINGLE BY MIA BENCIVENGA, PHOTOS BY CODY NICOLE WIEGAND, ALYSSA ANDRESS, AND WAYMAN JONES JR.
July 17, 2015. What was supposed to be yet another stormy Pittsburgh evening turned clear and steamy, ready to welcome patrons and pooches alike at Maniac Magazine’s 2nd Annual Mutts and Mingle event, with proceeds from the event benefitting Animal Friends. Dressed in “Picnic Chic” (as declared by Chloe Hubal, former Maniac cover girl and/ fur child of editor-in-chief April), guests arrived at Misty Pines Dog Park in Franklin Park at 6 o’clock. When checking in, they were greeted with warm smiles and $20 gift cards generously donated by ESSpa Kozmetica. While outside, you could find dogs of all shapes and sizes happily playing with the outdoor obstacle course. A table featuring gourmet dog and cat treats was also available to peruse, in addition to two handsome MINI Coopers provided by MINI Pittsburgh parked out front. The Coopers had their tops down, so you could see tiny humans and large dogs alike in the driver seats, envisioning themselves driving carefree down the highway on a hot summer day. Once you entered Misty Pines, pets and their owners were in for some serious treats. An even larger indoor obstacle course was available for very adventurous dogs, and a raffle to end all raffles was present, with dozens of different prizes to choose from. This gave patrons great chances to win $100 Big Burrito gift cards, gorgeous bags, Lex & Lynne designed dog collars, and massive baskets filled with beauty products for both pets and owners alike. DJ Loyal Martinez kept the vibe chill and fun while patrons enjoyed a variety of tasty drinks including Pooch Punch (Chloe Hubal makes a mean punch), Mikes Hard Lemonade, and Great Lakes Brewery beer and foods provided by Seviche and TBones Marketplace Wexford. At the end of the night, mutts, purebreds, and their human friends and families left feeling full of good food, laughs, and hands full of prizes. Most importantly, Animal Friends left with a bevy of love and support from the patrons.
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ADRIENNE ROZZI
One Witchy, Wonderful Woman BY ANNA CIACCIO, PHOTOS BY ADRIENNE ROZZI, ALLYCE ANDREW AND CHRISTIAN SHAKNAITIS
The term “witchcraft” innately conjures certain images in our minds— séances, cauldrons, broomsticks, and spells, and other spooky clichés. When one learns about Adrienne Rozzi, an artist who specializes in occult and witchcraft pieces, it’s hard not to make assumptions as what she will be like. You think of someone dark and broody, when in reality she is a perfect wisp of blonde hair, bright eyes, and a sunny disposition. Born just outside of New Castle, Pennsylvania, witchcraft made her yearn for something more magical in life. Her parents were artists by trade and some of Adrienne’s earliest and fondest memories are of spending afternoons with her mother, sketching portraits of one another. When Rozzi wasn’t drawing, she was wandering in the woods, which, she later discovered, was an indicator that she was meant for the craft. According to Rozzi, “Witchcraft is the magical connection with nature and the energies that surround us every day.” After high school, Adrienne’s love of art and history was further expanded as she attended the University of Pittsburgh for Art History and Film Studies. “College is where I truly began to appreciate history through the lens of art,” she says, and this was especially true in the history of witchcraft. Even though the early historians of the craft couldn’t read or write, they were able to communicate history through pictures and symbolism. It was this symbolism that really stuck with Rozzi, saying, “People wouldn’t want to tell a taboo story, but they could draw it,” and that’s exactly what she started to do. As her studies of the craft expanded, she used her drawings as a way of “keeping notes” on different stories, and in 2010 when she established her business, Poison Apple Print Shop, she used her sketches as a way to educate the masses about the positivity of witchcraft. What began as a simple shop on Etsy has organically snowballed into a full-blown business that houses her artwork exclusively. “My pieces are my interpretations of what I am learning in the craft, informed by witchcraft and the occult, not merely inspired by it.”
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MANIAC art Rozzi’s mother is, as she says, “a good soul,” and in Adrienne’s eyes, the ultimate woman of power. Being raised with two brothers, Adrienne’s mother always made sure that she was proud to be a girl. Initially, when Rozzi showed her mom the art that she was creating, she admits that mom was a bit skeptical saying, “Adrienne, can’t you just draw something pretty?” But in Rozzi’s eyes, “Skulls, and what they symbolize, are pretty!” Outside of the studio, Rozzi was very excited to talk about her involvement with Girls Rock! Pittsburgh. This organization uses music (and art) as an empowerment program for female youths of all definitions,abilities and backgrounds. She helped the girls create custom patches (one of her signature pieces) that were emblazoned with the saying she lives by: “Be Yourself.” Check out Adrienne Rozzi’s shop at www.etsy.com/ people/PoisonAppleStudios and prepare to be spellbound. For more information about Girls Rock! Pittsburgh, please visit www.girlsrockpittsburgh. bandcamp.com
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MANIAC KIDS April Hubal Photography
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APRIL@MANIACMAGAZINE.COM | 412.780.7148
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BONNIE LOYA
Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services Peters Township Office 3244 Washington Road McMurray, Pennsylvania 15317 USA Office 724-942-1200 Ext. 350 Cellular 412-915-0038 bonnie.loya@pittsburghmoves.com
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