Raine 9 - The Fashion Issue

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RAINE FASHION . ENTERTAINMENT . CULTURE . TECHNOLOGY

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VOLUME 9 FASHION ISSUE

MEET ANNABELLE WALLIS

AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW w/ JONATHAN KELTZ

Young Hollywood's Rising Star 09

A Fashion Love Story

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EDITOR’S NOTE WELCOME TO RAINE MAGAZINE Thank you for becoming a part of a movement for something new and different. We bring you our annual Fashion Issue. We are excited how each issue continues to evolve and bring our readers closer to the Raine experience. It is truly rewarding to hear the compliments from our readers: “Beautiful” “Just Stunning” “I shopped directly from the pages of Raine today” “I love how it feels” “Great quality and unforgettable images” “I read it cover to cover” We will continue to bring you vivid photography and inspirational stories while always keeping you in the know of the coolest people, places, and things from around the globe.

In this issue, you’ll meet some of Hollywood’s newest stars, the designers behind some of our favorite dance shows, the owners of two fast growing “dot.coms” – all while getting lost in Vienna, learning where to chill in Milan and being introduced to a new artist and author.

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RAINE FASHION . ENTERTAINMENT . CULTURE . TECHNOLOGY

fashion DESIGNERS BEHIND OUR FAVORITE DANCE STARS

where to eat.stay.chill

24MILAN beauty

BEAUTY and the BAGS

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FRESH FACE

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backstage pass ANNABELLE WALLIS

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30 32 TECH TOYS JONATHAN KELTZ

bizz buzz

ON THE SCENE 65 international spotlight

MAC SAM

MADE IN MANHATTAN

34 RAINEMAKERS

entertainment

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FALL LOVE STORY

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UNIQUE WORLD HOTELS

a dose of culture

VIENNA 44

48 richard alvarez JAMES ROMM 52

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MUSIC PHOTOGRAPHY

MAGAZINE

RAINE FASHION . ENTERTAINMENT . CULTURE . TECHNOLOGY

VOL 9

EDITORIA L TEA M Nova Lorraine - Founder / Creative Director Marilyn Wilson - Senior Editor Sam Morris - Senior Editor Geff Yabes - Features Editor Nekisha Slade - Research Editor

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Carlotta Harrington Milena Jakovljevic Tamara Walker Lindsay King Kia Rodriguez Caylena Cahill Destah Owens

SPECIAL THANKS Frederique Porter Felicia Crawford Monique Forrest Vered Koshlano Tina Littlejohn Natasha Gabriel

RESEARCH Krystal Bailey Sherrie Spears

GRAPHIC DESIGN Martina Micko Javier Hernandez

COVER CREDITS Annabelle Wallis Photographed by Giuliano Bekor / Cpi Syndication

RAINE MAGAZINE NEW YORK * LA * SAN FRANCISCO * MIAMI CORRESPONDENCE Raine Magazine 707 Ventura Dr Satellite Beach, FL 2937 Raine Magazine is a trademark of Raine Creative Holdings LLC and is published quarterly. All contents, logos, and articles are copyrighted materials and all right are reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of Raine Creative Holdings is prohibited. The publisher also reserves the right to refuse any advertising material for any reason deemed inappropriate by publisher. Raine Magazine’s subscription is $50.00. Please make checks payable to Raine Creative Holdings. To distribute Raine at your business, please email editor@rainemagazine.com.

FASHION & BEYOND

A FASHION LOVE STORY... FOR

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Photographer - Folana Miller Fashion Editor - Renessta Olds MUA - Gil Aldrin Hair - Tracina Dilligard Prop Stylist and Home Decorater - Peter Valcarcel Models - Paul @ Major Models, Katerina @ Major Models Assistant - Darniece Osborne Katerina: Blouse - Lauren Moffat www.laurenmoffatt.net Trouser Legging - Young by Yoyo Yeung www.youngbyyoyoyueng.com Shoes - United Nude www.unitednude.com Paul: Shirt - Bogosse Bowtie - Riviera Club www.rivieraclothing.com Pants - Daang Goodman for Tripp NYC www.trashandvaudeville.com Shoes - Mjolk

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Katerina: Dress - YOUNG by Yoyo Yeung www.youngbyyoyoyueng.com Leopard Belt - Vince Camuto Ultra Sheer Tights - Falke Paul : Cardigan - Henrik Vibskov Shirt - General Idea Pants - Henrik Vibskov Raine Magazine - Volume 9 8

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Katerina: Gown - Candela www.candelanyc.com Necklace - Trina Turk www.trinaturk.com Sherling/Fur Vest - Lafayette 148 Belt - Cheap Monday www.karmaloop.com Paul: Coat - CPT by Cockpit USA www.cockpitusa.com Cardigan - Trovata cardigan www.bloomingdales.com Pants - Henrik Vibskov

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Katerina: Brocade Velvet Coat - Blank Silk www.blanksilk.com Shirt - YOUNG by Yoyo Yeung www.youngbyyoyoyueng.com Pants - Blank Silk www.blanksilk.com Shoes - United Nude www.unitednude.com Black Feather Earrings - CRUX www.cruxny.com Paul: Jacket - General Idea www.oki.ni.com Pants - Henrik Vibskov Shoes - Hugo Boss Archives Raine Magazine - Volume 9

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DESIGNERS BEHIND OUR FAVORITE DANCE STARS

Ra ndall Chri st en sen

Costumer for Dancing with the Stars Written by Nova Lorraine

Meet Randall Christensen, a powerful force in the world of costuming and style. He brings a smile to millions of faces each week as he transforms the most famous into princes and princesses on one of television’s most beloved shows: Dancing with the Stars.

Randall started his career as a dancer in the late ‘70s.

He would describe himself as a wallpaper at school dances during his early teenage years. It wasn’t until he watched Saturday Night Fever in 1976, that he was inspired to learn how to dance. He eventually left disco to pick up ballroom room dancing and that’s where it all begins! While travelling on a ballroom dance team, he realized that he could design more “dance-friendly” costumes and taught himself how to sew and do patterns. Randall didn’t realize it at the time but his self-taught sewing technique was actually the French draping technique. “I learned how to sew on silk chiffon and charmeuse. I didn’t know that it was a difficult fabric to sew on because that is what I learned with.”

Soon Randall began making costumes for his friend and dance partner. “It’s good to be a little ignorant and passionate about something. I created my own look.” The word spread and requests for his designs kept coming in. His business was born!

He incorporated his design company in 1986 and began creating costumes for the ballroom dance market. “I learned from a good business partner -- “Surround yourself with people you would like to be like and treat them fairly.” Those words of wisdom paid off.

Randall’s big break came when after wearing his designs for a couple of seasons, Ashley DelGrosso Costa of Dancing with the Stars, pushed to have him come interview with the producers.

“At the time I was doing costumes for a TLC production: Ballroom Bootcamp and had aslo done the Jennifer Lopez’ Shall We Dance Costume.” Randall’s career up to that point was a perfect fit, having been a dancer himself and also a costumer for professional dancers.

Eleven seasons and 1 Emmy later...Randall loves every bit of what he does: high glamour costumes for the world of dance. “Custom gowns are not done on TV anymore. The celebrities I work with get to play Cinderella every week. The magical part is when they come down those stairs.” Randall’s mutual friend, Bob Mackie, of whom he is also compared to… has advised him on many occasions, including how to keep up with the hectic schedule. “I can’t design a costume until they give me the music. There’s only 1 week to turn around a complete costume and just 4 days to design, sew and fit.”

Randall is currently in the middle of a project, which will allow him to bring his own line to the masses. He wants to guide and empower women through their clothes. “I have seen how clothing can transform someone in terms of their confidence. I would like to bring this to the everyday woman.”

Randall believes that the fruits of his labor and years of hard work have afforded him these many opportunities. Randall was raised in the south as a country boy. He was taught that you could have anything you want if you work hard enough for it. His motto: “Work, work, work...and it will pay off.”

“I work 7 days a week. My days off are stilled filled with answering emails and phone calls. I get 10 weeks off a year and 12

this time off helps ground me, as well as my 2-hour commute along the coast to and from the studio each day.”

Every season seems to be his favorite and having worked with the same sewing team for years, he feels each year he and his team get better at what they do.

“I love what I do because I create fantasies. I love costuming because I can take everything to the extreme. We create the trend and that’s freeing.” Although passionate about what he does, Randall reflects, “I love my work but I know what’s important in life -- close family and friends.”

SOYON AN

Costumer for American Idol and So You Think You can Dance

What do American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance have in common: Soyon An, a young and bright star in design and style. She is the style talent behind the stage of America’s newest singing and dancing sensations.

Soyon An was born in South Korea and came to L.A when she was 3 years old. She always made her doll’s clothes because she wanted them to look unique. It wasn’t until high school that she realized that she wanted to do fashion design.

At the age of 16 and in her senior year, she was dual enrolled in Otis College of Art and Design. Upon graduation she received a scholarship to attend Otis full time for fine art.

Although she enjoyed her time at Otis, she was searching for more. “I have always been a big thinker -- I decided that I also wanted to learn sewing, pattern making and draping so I decided to go to FIDM, a trade school for the fashion industry.

I began designing when I was 19 years old and learned about styling while I was at FIDM.”

Soyon’s first big opportunity came when she was hired to work as an assistant for a stylist for the Golden Globes. That opportunity opened doors for her in the entertainment world. She worked on projects for the Golden Globes, Mariah Carey, Jada Pinkett and Avril Lavigne. Styling came very easy to her and she loved this part of the business. However, as time went on, Soyon began to miss designing.

Soyon then got another opportunity to be a “Day Player” aka freelancer, to assist the costume designer for So You Think You Can Dance - Season 2. “It was here that I was able to do a variety of tasks and that’s what “hooked” me. I was able to pull styles, design, sew, and sit with tailors to do patterns together with them.

Then I realized that this is what I wanted to do.”

From there Soyon did the So You Think You Can Dance Tour and the American Idol Tour and then was hired as the Head Costume Designer for the actual TV show: So You Think You Can Dance. This was an exciting time for Soyon and more projects kept coming her way. “This opportunity led me to designing Carrie Underwood’s complete Tour looks for her summer and fall tours.”

For Soyon, she loves being unique; she’s a hybrid of a stylist and a fashion designer. “I pull off the rack and create

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know how to speak their language.” She’s an artist that uses fashion as a medium.

Only 29 years old, Soyon has accomplished what takes many to accomplish in a lifetime. However, finding a balance between work and play is sometimes challenging. “I would like to find more time for myself. When you become your own boss, you become your worse enemy. You end up working around the clock -- no time for yourself. I don’t want my life to go by working, working...”

When working with the celebrities and dancers on both shows, she feels that her fashion design background has definitely given her an edge in costuming.

“My Mantra to my clients when styling or designing for them: Never lose your individual essence. I always want them to keep their core or their root.

Who you are is your brand. Embrace who you are – that’s what makes you an original artist.”

Some of Soyon’s future goals include getting into the scripted world of design and costuming. “I would like to work for shows like Ugly Betty, Sex in the City and Glee. I would also love to work with Tim Burton and see what we could create together.”

Currently, Soyon is working on her self-title clothing line: SOYON. It’s all about fit and raw edges. She also wants to open a boutique in L.A. carrying multiple designer lines while bringing the L.A perspective of style to the community.

Soyon is a truly inspiring woman with incredible energy and a strong desire to leave her mark in the world of fashion. She leaves us with a few words of wisdom: “Be yourself -- because everyone’s life experience is different.”

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FASHION & BEYOND

MADE IN MANHATTAN: Behind the Seams In shaky economic times, designers face the rising temptation to outsource production to international destinations where the prices are low and the quality is lower. Here are four designers who have avoided temptation and have chosen to preserve a piece of New York History by staying faithful to the Garment District

by: Lindsay King

HANDBAG DESIGNER JACKI EASLICK

Photo Credit: www.marymeyersclothing.com

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For luxury handbag designer Jacki Easlick, starting her own line was literally a matter of life and death. As a former Design Director, Easlick has worked with major international labels, including Kenneth Cole, Vera Bradley, and Hello Kitty, and her busy lifestyle finally caught up with her.

“I was traveling constantly. I was either in a different state or a different country almost every single week,” says Easlick. While visiting factories across Asia, Easlick’s mental and physical strength were dangerously tested. “I was on 8 bullet trains and 10 flights, all in a condensed time frame of two and a half weeks. It was like being on the Amazing Race!” Easlick recalls. After her final trip, she experienced a near-fatal aneurism that required an evaluation of the hectic lifestyle she had been leading.

During her month-long recovery in October of 2010, Easlick and her husband retreated to Cape Cod, and the recuperation process turned into the creative catalyst for a new project. “While I was healing, I started sketching. My satchel and my tote were the first bags I created. I was really too ill to jump back in the rat race and travel around Asia, nor did I want to do that again,” recalls Easlick. “I decided that I wanted to do things differently, so I created my own job, my own line, my own look, and do exactly what I wanted to do.”

While Easlick knew the ins and outs of being a Design Director, starting her own line from scratch meant some serious homework.

“I went to different seminars, business classes, and really started learning about manufacturing in the United States.” She knew that she wouldn’t compromise quality for cost, so the factory she chose is truly the best, producing for the likes of Rebecca Minkoff, Kooba, and Botkier.

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Working with a high-end factory in the Garment District is a challenge that Easlick wanted. “When you outsource in China, they’ll say ‘Yes! We can make whatever you want, as fast as you want!’

However, the New York factory I currently work with is tough.”

To hear Easlick describe the process of picking a New York factory sounds like an audition for a Broadway play in which she is vying for the starring role. “They don’t allow any designer to just walk in off the street. When I sat down with them and described my history, where I’ve been and what I now wanted to do, they said they would work with me”. Easlick’s collection now includes 8 bags, an impressive feat for only having developed her brand last year.

“Each and every bag is new and different. It’s not like in China, where they’ll shop for bags in the U.S. and ship them overseas to knock them off. I’m not working that way. My process is slower because I’m starting from scratch,” says Easlick.

Looking at Easlick’s handbags, one can immediately tell that structure, form, and function are at the top of her list as the fundamental design elements; it comes as no surprise that her impressive resume includes a rich background in architecture. As a creative director for a prestigious furniture contract company, she’s worked with the likes of worldrenowned architect Richard Meieir. “When I worked with these architects, I would really pay attention to what they had to say, their taste, their styling, scale – when I work on my line, I take all of this into consideration. When a woman carries a handbag, it can’t look too big, too small, too this, too that -- the scale of my bags has to be right. I also wanted a lot of

convertibility,” states Easlick.

The Crossover bag perfectly sums up Easlick’s aesthetic of effortless functionality. The long leather strap is ideal for the girl-on-the-go who’s traveling and trekking city streets, but needs the chameleon effect. By removing the long strap, the bag transitions with ease to a flap; with a short chain strap and edgy detailing, the daytime handbag morphs into an evening clutch. Easlick designs for the woman who wants it all. “If you could have 2 or 3 bags in one, why not?” she says.

So what’s next for the effervescent Easlick?

Besides constantly pouring out new design ideas, she’s focusing on creating a brand image, one which communicated her love of New York and sophisticated style. She’s also planning new ways to empower women; currently, part of the proceeds of her line goes to orphanages and women in countries from Haiti to Uganda.

For Easlick, New York is the heartbeat of her brand. “By manufacturing in New York, you’re creating jobs, no doubt. My factory, my tannery, and my showroom are all within a block from each other.

There’s no ‘Made in China’, there’s no manufacturing overseas. Although my prices tend to be a bit higher, it’s because of the quality of the materials.”

In creating Jacki Easlick Handbags, Easlick did far more than make accessories. Having added designer, business-owner, and philanthropist to her already impressive menagerie of accomplishments, Easlick found a fresh start that suits her newfound appreciation for life. “Going out on your own is not easy to do, but it’s very exciting. I feel like I’ve blended all of my skill sets from the past into one job, and I love it!”

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The Wedding Couture Connoisseur: Jane Wilson-Marquis, Owner of Jane Wilson-Marquis

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Former dancer and choreographer Jane Wilson-Marquis began designing in her native England before crossing the pond over 20 years ago. Today, she runs her own private couturier salon in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Her client dossier reads like a who’s who of…well, everyone. Her dresses have graced the elite stage of Carnegie Hall, adorned the British and Russian aristocracy, appeared on both the Big and Silver screens, and been worn by the likes of Diana Ross and Rosanne Cash (daughter of legendary Johnny).

Jane’s decision to source in the Garment District and produce in her workshop is a necessity in the world of custom bridal gowns. “Couture tends to not be factory-friendly, so it can’t be outsourced.”

The inspiration behind Jane’s luxurious creations stems from a conglomerate of influences: Greco-Roman and Medieval history, nature, and her dance background. “Simply put, movement is sculpture in motion,” explains Jane. “At the time I was doing dance, I was very interested in time and space. Depending on which clothes you put on, you are changing the way you feel and the way you look in space. Whenever you talk about fashion, people talk about the way you look.

In reality, when you look at fashion [editorials] in magazines, what’s surrounding the garment is incredibly important. You have a different impact on the space around you depending on what you’re wearing”.

While currently sourcing solely in New York, Marquis’ latest venture, a lower-priced wedding gown line, may creatively combine both internal and international methods of production. With the working title of ‘Simply Jane’, Marquis wants to give brides the couture experience without the hefty price tag. “That does mean possibly outsourcing,” she explains, “or at least the base garments. You can have a dress under $1500 and still have that couture feeling by listening to client’s input and enhancing the dress with add-ons and details that are handmade and couture. Ultimately, couture is about making a garment just for you…a lot of people have ideas about what they want, and then go out to desperately try to find it. And that might just be that they want red flowers with pink centers – something that simple – and ‘Simply Jane’ would address those needs within a price range that is reasonable and affordable”.

And of course, in a culture immersed in endless coverage of royal weddings, wedding cake decorating contests, and enough Say Yes to the Dress episodes to last until our great-great-grandchildren say yes to their dress, we had to know: what bridal trends are on the horizon?

Jane’s answer reflects a return to the basics. “I think simple!” she extols. “There’s certainly a destination theme occurring to cut costs, which automatically necessitates simpler. You’re not going to be doing a dress meant for the Plaza for a beach ceremony in Florida; it doesn’t look right. People want to spend less, which, in their eyes, means a simper look. I don’t think beading is on the top of the agenda anymore! Which it never was with me; I’ve always been about shape and form.” Beading or not, we’d love to slip into one of Marquis’ couture confections and feel like an ethereal, blushing bride for a day!

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FASHION & BEYOND

Graphic Design It-Girl and Bicoastal Designer, Mary Meyers

Growing up in California, Mary studied printmaking, weaving, dying and woodworking while enrolled in the California College of the Arts.

She soon thereafter began to make custom shirts for friends, and it wasn’t long after when, in 2005, she set the bar higher: founding her own company Mary Meyer Clothing. Now based in Brooklyn, Meyer’s designs evoke a true beach-girl-gonebad vibe: Bolinas 2 Miles, her recent collection of limited edition hand printed tees and tanks, is a kind of homage to her dual West Coast/ East Coast roots. In an interview with Elle, Meyer explains, “The prints are all inspired by land, sea, and grit. I wanted to create a group that was earthy, but also had edge”.

Featured on Refinery 29, Daily Candy, The New York Times Fashion Review, and on the personal site of celebrity blogger Karla (of Karla’s Closet), Meyer is a major player in the Brooklyn design world. Discussing life in NY, Meyer admits, “Out west, people are more laid back, which is nice, but it also has less productive energy. New York City is a hard place to live, it’s a place that pushes you, and so the fact that you have to toughen up here makes a person stronger”. Meyer has most recently made headlines for the opening of the Mary Meyer Art House, a studio/store hybrid that also serves as a concert venue, a shop for both local designers and vintage finds, and houses Meyer’s own workroom – you can’t get much more local than that.

Photo Credit: www.marymeyersclothing.com

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‘Mirame’ literally translates from Spanish to mean, “Look at me”, and frankly, we can’t stop looking! Designer Melinda Huff founded Mirame in 2010 and has since churned out sensual, stunning swimwear with a profoundly sophisticated sense of tailoring and the female form. Huff recently revealed her new designs on the runway at the 2011 PLITZ SPF Swimwear Designer Showcase on June 11, and is planning her next show for September’s Fashion Week.

Next up for this busy fashionista? A possible line of cover-ups, setting up boutique partnerships, developing an online shop… all while taking on the new role of “Mommy”!

Huff mastered the craft of creating beautiful swimwear while working with Norma Kamali, and her expertise reveals itself in swimwear featuring discreet cutouts, modern color palettes, and body-conscious mesh.

Describing her inspiration in a recent interview, Huff cites “a combination of tribal hieroglyphs and classic 1950s glamour” as the underlying theme to her creations. Indeed, Mirame is one line that we can’t help but watch with awe.

Swimwear Sensation Melinda Huff, Founder of Mirame

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FRESH FACE

FATIMA SIAD MODEL: FATIMA SIAD

Photographer: Manny O Wardrobe Stylist: Shatonia Amee & A Milford for Pink Suede Inc www.pink-suede.com Model Agency: New York Models.

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VOLUME 9 FASHION ISSUE

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EAT. STAY. CHILL. Milan, Italy

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Raine Magazine - Volume 9

Between the high heels, designer outfits, ornate sculptures, colorful windowpanes, intimate stone streets, and the grand piazzas, Milan’s fame in the fashion world comes as no surprise to visitors. Thanks in part to its own Fashion Week, this stylish, high-class metropolis located in northern Italy, brings in world-renowned designers, models, celebrities, and journalists twice a year. While this haute couture can certainly seem exclusive to the everyday tourist, the city and restaurants maintain the typical Italian values of hospitality and quality in order to provide a warm, welcoming and authentic environment to visitors of all types. So, don’t be afraid to experience Milan the way the Italians do – in vogue!

EAT: Trattoria Bagutta,Via Bagutta 14, Milan, Italy | Open: Noon to 3pm and 7pm to midnight | Accepts all credit cards | http://www.todine.net/bagutta/index. html Situated in the historical center of Milan, the Trattoria Bagutta is only half a mile from the city’s main square, Piazza del Duomo. This trattoria, with its rustic, artsy atmosphere, was founded in 1924 and has attracted everyone from painters, publishers, and top models, performers and poets to businessmen, doctors, lawyers, engineers and politicians – it’s even the home of the first Italian Literary Award! Everything from small works to wall-sized paintings line the walls, floor to ceiling, corner to corner, in each of the dining rooms, giving the place a creative vibe. Outdoor dining in a chic and beautiful garden is available in the summertime and warmer weather seasons. The food, while expensive to some, is typically priced for an authentic, sit-down Italian restaurant that offers appetizers, primi piatti (first course pasta dishes), secondi dishes (“second/main course” – usually meats, seafoods), desserts and drinks. With all those options, the bill will easily reach 50+ euros, even for one. The menu at Trattoria Bagutta changes daily and features seasonal agriculture and typical regional dishes of the Toscana style. With its rich history, fantastic location, intimate feeling, and ever-changing food, it is the perfect place to stop for lunch or dinner while sightseeing in downtown Milan.

STAY: Hotel Straf,Via San Raffaele 3, 20121 Milan, Italy | http://www.straf.it/ Whether visiting Milan for business or to discover the latest in Italian fashion, Hotel Straf’s classy, ultramodern design will be the perfect combination of chic and relaxing. This four-star hotel, located just off the Piazza del Duomo, is surrounded by Milan’s main attractions, classy restaurants, classical Italian architecture, and high-fashion. Each of the hotel’s 64 rooms includes a mini-bar, satellite television on LCD TVs, high-speed Internet access, air conditioning, telephone with voicemail, and a laptop-size safe. The Straf has several specialty rooms centered on ‘well-being’ or ‘relaxing’ which offer massage arm-chairs, aromatherapy, and chromotherapy. Two suites and an executive room with private terraces looking over the Duomo can also be reserved. Dine and drink throughout the day and night in the hotel’s own trendy bar and restaurant. The look of the rooms and restaurant feature all the elements of color, shape, and lines of modern design trends. This lavish hotel, which is definitely not for the budget-traveler, continually creates extremely satisfied customers and exemplifies Milan’s hip, fashion-oriented feel.

CHILL: 10 Corso Como, Milan | http://www.10corsocomo. com/ Le Biciclette: Ristorante and Art Bar,Via Conca del Naviglio 10, 20123 Milano | http://www.lebiciclette. eu/ENG/ When looking for a place to chill out in the afternoon/evening, as well as after dinner, try either Le Biciclette, located not far from the Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore alle Colonne, or 10 Corso Como, located to the north, near the Garibaldi train station, between the Parco Sempione and the Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli. Le Biciclette, a bar, restaurant, and club, is a three-in-one that features monthly modern art exhibits and so-called “hi-tech” and “minimalist” furniture, which lends itself to a relaxing, yet trendy atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy fancy cocktails, and to kick back and enjoy “la dolce vita!” While 10 Corso Como also offers a restaurant, it is known for its flea market and unique but traditional courtyard garden area. While there, one can also adore its contemporary gallery, chic rooftop sculpture garden/hang out area, modern furniture, and bookstore. This place is really an all-in-one, where visitors can easily spend the whole afternoon and night – especially thanks to its proximity to popular nighttime neighborhoods filled with bars and nightclubs. 10 Corso Comor gives the option from going from the gallery, shop, bookstore to the café, all before or after experiencing the aperitivo and dining in the restaurant. The café is also popular for its non-alcoholic options, such as teas and other drinks. No worries, either place is great for afterdinner drinks with their fun lights and mixed crowds providing a fun and hip atmosphere.

Written by Caylena Cahill Photo Credit: Caylena Cahill

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ENTERTAINMENT

YOUNG HOLLYWOOD’S RISING STAR

ANNABELLE WALLIS Written by Nova Lorraine

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Photo Credit: Giuliano Bekor / CPi Syndication

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A shining actress that has caught the attention of many in

the film and television world, catches up with Raine Magazine.

“I grew up in Portugal but I’m British through and

Cinema and The Tudors opened up a door to great scripts. The show was a part of something that was Epic.”

Annabelle is one of a few actresses in which their first

through.” Annabelle Wallis grew up in Portugal for the first 17

introduction to the cinematic world was a positive and strong one.

years of her life and states that it definitely shaped who she is as

She’s grateful that she did a part that made her feel good about

a person. Her mom decided she wanted a new & different life for

herself and had a role that she is very proud of. She played a

herself and her children, besides the confines of the British culture.

likeable character, a Queen that left her throne still in good favor

with her country. While filming, she truly enjoyed her fellow cast

While in Portugal, Annabelle, lived near the coast

of Lisbon – with a large international community and loved

along with the beautiful surrounding of Dublin, Ireland.

every second of her childhood. However, she also knew that to

accomplish her dreams, she would one day have to leave.

First Class, released summer of 2011. She tells us a little about that

In her teens she made a decision that she had to act and her parents

experience. “A casting director in London who was always behind

were 100% behind her from the start.

me brought the project to my agent and I thought it was great and

loved the Director and the fact that he is a risk taker. On sets like

Annabelle always did theater and little films in Portugal

After arriving in the US, she landed a role in the XMEN -

– one day when she was about 20 years old, she decided to go to

that – you either sink or you swim. When working with people at

London for a weekend and never came back. “I new I had to always

the top of their game – you deliver and want to deliver.”

go back to England and explore my roots, I knew that in terms of

acting, Portugal didn’t have enough opportunities for me.”

and the Huntsman, which is scheduled to come out next summer

and Pan Am, set in the 1960’s. “It’s a very cool period piece with

While in London, Annabelle got scouted for a BBC

Some of Annabelle’s future Projects include Snow White

presenting job. She decided to test the waters. She then got referred

a real sense of space. We go around the world – it is all about the

to an agent. “He asked me to read from Shakespeare on the spot

political tensions in America at that time and using Pan Am to

and I told him to trust me and he did – my bravado paid off.”

explore them.

To many of us, acting seems to be an easy, low-pressure

In her downtime, Annabelle enjoys the many pleasures of

job. However, most of us seem are unaware of the countless hours

Southern California. “The great things about L.A. – when you have

of preparation and auditions that go into landing just one role.

free time there is so much to do outside. i.e. hiking, going to the

Annabelle sums this up nicely. “There’s so much anxiety and stress

beach, horseback riding and going out with my friends.”

to admit that you are an actor and the pressure to book anything is

“I grew up in Portugal but I’m British through and through.”

Although in L.A., Annabelle’s family and friends back

home are still a very big part of her life. Her brother is an awardwinning director out of London and she still has a house in Portugal and goes back every couple of months. “It is important to maintain that I am Annabelle before I am Annabelle Wallis, the actress – it’s very grounding to still have your friends that have known you

so great…and when you finally book something, you feel relieved.”

before all of that.”

Now a resident of Los Angeles, it wasn’t too long ago

In terms of her peers, Annabelle admires really strong

that Annabelle left London to embark to the US. “I was reluctant to

women such as Natalie Portman, Meryl Streep and Cate Blanchet.

come here. I was very clear that I wanted to have time to get good

“ They show that it is possible to be a woman - cerebral and good

at what I do. When you’re acting, it’s all about life experience.”

looking while being clear with what they want in their career with

While in London for those few years, Annabelle filmed the Tudors

the freedom to make choices.”

and was about 23 years old when she finally came to the United

States.

what she works on. “When you are starting out…you have to do

“I was very much into my life – my personal life is very

Annabelle looks forward to picking and choosing

whatever they want you to do --- I would like to get to a point

important – it was important to be in an inspiring environment

where I have more freedom of choice in terms of my work.”

and at the time, that was London. London was always my base so

I went back and forth for awhile; now L.A. is my base - work has

LOVE being on set. I love working on a script – love the director

brought me here.”

being there – when they call: “ACTION!” …when all the parts of

your brain are working together and you are delivering something

During her time in London, she spent the later part in

Dublin rehearsing for the Queen of England in the Tudors with

What does Annabelle love most about her work? “I

amazing.

Jonathan Rhys Meyers. “I feel that T.V. can be just as good as

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ENTERTAINMENT

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Actor: Jonathan Keltz Photo Credit: Marc Cartwright: www.marccartwright.com

JONATHAN KELTZ ONE TO WATCH ON AND OFF THE BIG SCREEN Written by Nova Lorraine

As a serious actor, Jonathan realizes that

countless auditions go along with the territory and has learned to not get discouraged when he doesn’t get the job. He knows that the decisions are made for reasons that are often unknown to him. “The production team is always

working on putting together a puzzle. You have to learn to

“What inspired me the most to pursue acting? My parents

get out there and do audition after audition and not take the

always treated me with mutual respect and exposed me to

outcome personal.”

a lot of amazing films as I was growing up.”

agent due to my years of experience I had in Canada.

Passion, humility and true talent describe this

“Once I moved to L.A. I was able to get an

young actor who is blazing a trail on the Hollywood scene.

Entourage was my first break out role. It was a show about

Born in Manhattan, Jonathan Keltz and his family moved

the industry, watched by the industry. “I am proud to have

to upstate New York for a better lifestyle. This move was a

landed 26 roles since beginning my career 7 years ago.

turning point in Jonathan’s young life. While in upstate New

I’m very grateful and blessed to have gotten the diversity of

York, Jonathan studied with a great instructor who taught

roles that I have had to date.”

him how to explore the depths of creative expression.

“The film that inspired me early on was Kenneth Brown’s

work being done on television now, especially on HBO,

Hamlet.”

SHOWTIME, and AMC. I am very grateful to have been

Deciding not to settle in upstate New York,

able to have done both film and television and hope to

Jonathan’s parents later found themselves in Toronto, for

continue to have that opportunity. The ideal situation would

business and career opportunities. Jonathan feels that

be working in an HBO or Showtime production and being

spending his teenage years in Toronto was integral in

able to film big screen projects in between.” Jonathan is

giving him the experience he needed to capture some of

also looking forward to his latest project, a comedy called

his early roles in Los Angeles. “Toronto was a good move

21 and Over, written and directed by John Lucas and Scott

for me personally in terms of helping me develop my career

Moore, writers of The Hangover and The Hangover Part II.

at such a young age. “

The film will be released next spring.

Jonathan’s family has always been a strong

Jonathan looks ahead. “There is some great

“It’s an exciting time to be an actor.” Besides

support system for him and his father a great role model.

appreciating the work of Brad Pitt, Leonardo DeCaprio and

“My family always encouraged me to pursue my passion

Matt Damon, Jonathan also admires his peers: Ben Foster

and just before turning 19, my father drove me to L.A. on a

and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. As he moves forward, he hopes

2-day road trip.” Jonathan often reflects on how his father’s

to follow the path of Paul Newman, in the sense where he

hard work has translated into success and that helps

can be as creative as he wants and have the ability to have

motivate him. “I have learned resilience and perseverance

a family and maintain their privacy.

from my Dad as I watched him handle his own professional

pursuits.”

responds with a smile and a chuckle. Our conclusion…it’s

Not working a 9 to 5pm with predictable income

complicated – single but madly in love.

And finally, we ask Jonathan about his status. He

takes time to get used to as a young actor but sometimes not until missing a meal or two from a lack of budgeting.

“My friend and I quickly learned life lessons of living on our own and being responsible for our own money and how we spend it.”

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TECH TOYS Written by Milena Jakovljevic

Google+ The next big social network and Facebook's worst nightmare is here Are you using it yet? We're using »googling« and »facebooking« as a verb for quite a while now. Is »plus oneing it« next? Hang out with your friends in video hangouts, get stream from your friends and upload photos and videos as soon as they happen. You can use Google+ on your mobile phones with the free apps avaliable on the website below. http://www.google.com/mobile/+/ PRICE: Free

UNDERABOVE A new concept for photograpy, taking pictures from below and above the water at the same time.

Underabove is designed by In Kyung Han and it won a Red Dot Award for the imaginitive idea and design. It is made from lighter-than-air polypropylene and the top compartment is filled with air to keep it floating above water. An LCD screen enables you to monitor the photographs and two lenses take pictures from above and below at the same time and then combine the picture together. http://www.yankodesign.com PRICE: TBA

THE LOOP A pointer air mouse, shaped like a large ring is a fun, simple gadget you can use for streaming content out of your computer. Sufficient control over your PC or Mac can give a new edge to your sales presentations, for it enables you to move around the room freely and look cool doing it. http://hillcrestlabs.com/loop/ PRICE: $99

LUFDESIGN FORK Everyone has computer and phone charging cables lying around the apartment in a disorderly manner and here comes a smartly designed and funny solution. Imagine a fork in a spagetti plate and you will get the concept of the »Fork and souce« gadget.

In addition, a good portion of the profits goes to the »Save the Children« organization and each item sold provides one meal for a child in hunger. http://lufdesign.blogspot.com/search/label/store PRICE: $13 32

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NISSAN LEAF The first mass produced full electric car won the 2011 World car of the year award. It is 100 % electric, has no gas tank and no tailpipe, Nissan is calling it the Âťworld's first affordable, zero-emission carÂŤ, which charges fully in 4-8 hours. It really is modernly equiped and can travel up to 100 miles on a single charge. If you pride yourself in being environmentaly friendly, then this may be the next step in transportation for you. http://www.nissanusa.com/leaf-electric-car PRICE: $27.700

Victorinox Swiss Army Slim Flight 16GB An army knife is no loger just equiped with a blade, scissors and a bottle opener, a USB key is a neccessity in our everyday life and Victorinox has jumped on board awhile ago. The new collection features the Slim, Slim Duo and Secure SSD. In addition to being slim, the first two of those are also available in flight-friendly versions sans knife. Is your motto: Always prepared? Then this is your kind of gadget! http://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-Swiss-Army-Flight-Silver/dp/B004VFMDHI PRICE: $89

iPhone 5 The most expected one of all, the gadget of all gadgets, the new iPhone 5.

Expected to hit the stores in October, the coveted phone has already been copied numerous times, even though it hasn't even been released yet. http://www.apple.com/iphone/ PRICE: TBA

MAGIC WAND A portable scanner that you can put in your bag? Sounds like something James Bond would use. A magic wand is a simple device which you can use anywhere, you just slide over text or picture and the device stores the data. You can connect it with your computer's card reader and selected models even have bluetooth connection. It is avaliable in black, blue, pink, red, purple, white, turquoise and green. http://www.vupointsolutions.com/ PRICE: $99.99

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S R E K A M E RAIN

THE BIG BUZZ

CH T A W O T S Yabes

by Geff PRENEUR

ENTRE

Researched

JOSEPH CHASE Joseph Chase has always believed that the power of impeccable style means having a finished look from hair to toe. His distinct flare for indentifying and creating trends began with work in fashion retail, where he built the foundation for his career by deeming that confidence in one’s appearance positively affects the way one lives. With his craft and finesse in demand by the entertainment world, Joseph Chase arrived at the glamorous Argyle Salon & Spa in West Hollywood. Currently working with an impressive list of celebrity clientele and stylists, Joseph’s goal at the Argyle Salon & Spa is to create editorial-worthy style for his clients that is befitting of the glossy pages of their lives. Amongst Joseph Chase’s A-list and Hollywood celebrity clientele are: Emma Stone, Isla Fischer, Chad Kreuger (lead singer of rock band, Nickelback), and Adrienne Maloof.

DANIELLE GUERRA Although only 28, Danielle Guerra has already enjoyed a decade-long career in the Special Events industry. She is launching a young donor initiative at Midori & Friends called "Young Friends." Midori & Friends is a non-profit organization that has enhanced the lives of almost 200,000 underserved New York City children and their families through providing high-quality music education programs and initiatives in public schools throughout the boroughs. The Young Friends initiative allows for young people between the ages of 21 -39 who share an interest and understanding in the importance of music education to come together, create awareness, and raise money for the cause. As she designs a Young Friends calendar of fundraisers, networking lunches, concerts, and other social events specifically customized to attract young New York professionals.

MATT SCHULTZ After attending the University of Tampa, Matt was working part time on fashion shows while he was actively involved in the nightlife industry in New York City. Through his vast network, he caught a lucky break when he received an opportunity to help with a handful of events at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in France. He has since co-founded an entertainment company called: The Socialaire Group. The name was created by Matt, which means “One with wealth in social connections and experiences”. The company has been contracted to work on many notable projects including their involvement with Cosmopolitan Magazine, the Grammy’s and New York’s Fashion Night Out. The Socialaire Group plans on expanding into concert production and increasing their brand awareness with events at the Sundance Film Festival and Cannes Film Festival.

ELANA HAROS Life is short, eat dessert first. It is all too often that we get caught up in our daily routines and not our guilty pleasures. Rest assured Haros cupcakes are not only artistically tasteful but delectable to eat. Life goes by in a flash; treat yourself, or a friend to a well deserved guilty pleasure by Haros Cakes. Elana Haros, founder of Haros Cakes LLC has successfully turned a lifetime hobby into a bustling business. A combined her passion for baking cultivated by her father and an artistic reverie nurtured by her Mother, became a recipe for something great. With instilled confidence from both parents Elana took the plunge to opening up her talents and treats for all to enjoy. Haros cupcakes are baked daily and specializes in custom designs and flavor pairings.

CHARLES SNIDER Upon moving to New York City in fall of 2010, Charles has been a regular interviewer for “Reuters Insider,” hosting a weekly financial market segment, as well as an entertainment segment called "Top Shelf" where he has sampled many fine spirits from Tribeca to Stone Street. Charles has been on-air and in the media business since 2003 when in Houston, Texas he hosted and anchored the live news show “NC-17” (Newscast 17) -- that followed the 2004 presidential election. He then began “The Charles Snider Show,” a late night talk show, that included interviews and chats with newsmakers and celebrities ranging from Charles Barkley, to Gilbert Gottfried, to Queen Latifa.

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TARA ORTIZ British Pop/ R & B singer Tara Ortiz, left her family and friends in London, England and headed for the “Big Apple”. She started working as a backup singer and dancer where she was introduced to Grammy Award winning produced Omen (Ludacris, Mya, Drake, Fabulos) her talent was recognized and she was given the opportunity to record and develop her sound. Tara is one to watch on the music scene.

MAX GREENFIELD Born and raised in New York, Max Greenfields breakout role came in the 2004 indie film Cross Bronx. In 2006 he was cast as a lead in the WB series Modern Men. However, he is probably best known for his recurring roles on Veronica Mars as “Leo D'Amato, Ugly Betty as “Nick Pepper,” and on Greek as “Michael”. Max has also been featured in many guest-starring roles on shows such as Gilmore Girls, Boston Public, Sleeper Cell, The O.C., and Melrose Place. Recent television credits include Raising the Bar, Castle, Lie to Me, No Ordinary Family, Hot in Cleveland, and Happy Endings. Max will next star as the lead role of “Schmidt” in the much anticipated FOX sitcom, The New Girl, opposite Zooey Deschanel which begins airing in September 2011.

BRIAN SCHNEIDER Brian Schneider is an internet entrepreneur focusing on dynamic sites to improve the online experience. He’s produced such popular sites as IsItBangus.com, ILikeWidget.com, LikeMyTweets.com, MyLinksMyAds.com, and more recently VivaLaPlaylist.com. Brian and co-founder Josh Ostrow created VivaLaPlaylist.com. Viva La Playlist allows anyone to create an online tv station where they can watch music videos with their friends online. You and your friends vote on which videos you like or don’t like, and only the best ones are played.

Everyone logged into the station sees the same videos play at the same time. The videos are provided by Youtube’s vast music library. For each popular song a person adds to the playlist they are rewarded with points, making it a fun game as well as a good place to chill and listen to tunes. Brian is looking forward to adding some fun gaming features to VivaLaPlaylist and growing its already rapidly expanding user base. In addition to creating websites, Brian is a skier, Crossfitter, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner.

YOANNE MAGRIS Born in France and raised in the Middle East, Yoanne Al-Hassani Magris is a culinary prodigy who came to the US in 1998. She took her blend of French and Mediterranean cuisine to eateries like Russian Tea Room, Paradou, and Barolo as Chef de Cuisine. After launching her catering company in 2007, she has catered for Heads of States, world Ambassadors. Henry Kissinger and President Barack Obama. She is also a finalist in the Food Network's spicy show Chopped!. As one of GQ's 100 Most Loved Women, Yoanne enjoys being the Executive Chef de Cuisine at her own Spanish Harlem Bistro, Yo In Yo Out. MAKEDA SAGGAU-SACKEY With a distinct style of her own, Makeda Saggau-Sackey has emerged as a forerunner in online fashion blogging in Washington, DC and now in New York City.

The sassy African-born fashionista pen's the popular online blog, The Glamazon Diaries, a four year old blog that serves as a leading authority on fashion, events and society for affluent tastemakers. Her keen eye for of-the-moment and underground designers, industry news and high profile interviews of fashion's power players keeps the Glamazon Diaries on the cutting edge. Ms. Saggau-Sackey, dubbed a media maven among her peers for her authoritative voice on fashion across social media sites, also pens the Duchess of Cambridge Style, a site solely dedicated to tracking Her Royal Highness Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge’s fashion. The site reaches over 80,000 readers each month and serves as the must-read blog for Kate Middleton, which the site calls DoC Stylers. http://www.duchessofcambridgestyle. com/press/ http://www.glamazondiaries.com/pages/about-us/

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UNIQUE WORLD HOTELS.COM “a must” on a traveler’s to do list!

Burj Al Arab - Dubai, United Arab Emirates 36

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Hotel Cipriani - Venice, Italy

How did Unique World Hotels get its start?

UWH was launched in early 2010 after more than two years of detailed research to compile the finest and most comprehensive hand-picked selection of boutique and luxury hotels located throughout the world.

Who is the Founder(s) and Brainchild behind the company?

Two people: B. Fisher Paty and Dr. William Carpenter, FAIA. Really, it was Fisher’s idea and Bill helped to realize it. Fisher traveled extensively for six years while working for a consulting firm and he woke up one morning in a run of the mill hotel not knowing what city he was in.

From that point forward, he decided that he would only stay in unique hotels that were connected to the cities in which they were located.

What is their inspiration behind the brand?

Simple, clean, elegant. We designed the brand and style guide with a modern feel that gives one a sense of the experience that you would get from the hotels.

What separates Unique World Hotels from other online hotel sites in the market?

Time & money. We have done all the research and the hard work to offer a hand-picked, refined selection of hotels to save our clients time.

And our rates are low because of our bulk purchasing capabilities that many of our competitors lack. Although we offer boutique and luxury hotels throughout the world, our primary market is boutique hotels in the United States and none of our competitors are focused on this market.

The website is very captivating. Who conceptualized the look?

Thank you! Our team, led by Bill, conceptualized the look with the help of design firms Lightroom and Spinen both located in Georgia.

How did you come up with the name Unique World Hotels?

Our brand centers around “Unique World” and the idea that when one travels, this fact should never be lost.

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Bora Bora Lagoon Resort and Spa - Bora Bora, French Polynesia

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Where is the company based?

Decatur, Georgia, which is located five miles due east of downtown Atlanta and is home to both of the founders.

Our primary marketing this far has been in Atlanta, although we are amazed that we have had bookings worldwide.

How did you come up with the selection of hotels on your site?

We completed an exhaustive search and detailed review of eligible hotels with careful attention paid to design, customer satisfaction and the context of the hotel to its surroundings.

What demographics are you marketing to? Who are your customers?

We are primarily marketing to the cultured hip business or leisure traveler. Our customers are probably the readers of Dwell magazine and The New York Times. It’s an interesting cross-section; our audience is really people who love travel and seek authentic experiences.

What hotel should every traveler visit in their lifetime?

The Milestone Hotel in London. Overlooking Kensington Palace and Gardens, each guest room is a work of art - a grand statement of color and style dressed with fine fabrics, fresh flowers, antique furnishings, and rare artworks.

No two rooms or suites are alike, yet each of their rooms casts its own spell.

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Le Meurice, Paris, France What’s one sentence that would best sum up the Unique World Hotels experience?

From the moment you arrive at the doorstep of one of our hotels, you are reminded that to settle for less than exceptional art, architecture, service, or amenities is to compromise your sense of travel purpose - to experience the world, one exceptional locale at a time.

What is the price point of the hotels on your site?

Usually 10% to 20% off of list prices for hotels, on average $200.00.

What kind of marketing are you using to gain interest? Are you using social media?

Yes, we are using social media and word of mouth is our best marketing tool. We currently have over 6,000 twitter followers and are continuing to pursue grass roots marketing efforts.

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Tell our readers a little bit about the Founders behind the company and their future goals.

In addition to hotels, Fisher’s love for design extends to office buildings and he presently owns a commercial real estate development and operating company. He has a cool watch and gets most of his clothing advice from his wife Karen, and sometimes Bill. He has a three-year-old daughter who loves travel and adventure as much as he does.

A consummate entrepreneur, he is always looking for new opportunities. Bill likes to wear hats, and is jealous of Fisher’s watch. He is a very talented and loving architect, designer, professor, friend, father and human being. He is a founder of Lightroom, a nationally award winning design firm in Decatur, Georgia specializing in architecture and new media projects for commercial and residential clients. When he doesn’t have his nose to the drafting table, Bill can be found hanging out with his two lovely daughters or trotting the globe in search of adventure.

Photos Courtesy of: BURJ AL ARAB HOTEL CIPRIANI BORA BORA LAGOON RESORT AND SPA LE MEURICE MANDRIAN ORIENTAL

Mandrian Oriental - London, United Kingdom

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T h e F u t u re o f W o rkin g in A meri ca?

By Tamara Walker

The status of the economy has been dominating American media since we entered the Great Recession in 2008. Though whether or not we are still in the grasps of recession is debatable (economists and other financial experts fall on all sides of the debate of if we are still in the midst of, on our way out of or descending back into a recession), but one thing that is not up for debate is the status of the unemployed in this country. Each month, the nation seems to wait with baited breath for the numbers released by the Department of Labor—18,000 jobs created this month, 100,000 new unemployment claims filed the next—all causing the percentage rate to rise and fall by mere fractions of a point which translates into hundreds of thousands if not millions of people, depending on the given month. And let’s not even get into the structural unemployment number (defined as when a labor market is unable to provide jobs for everyone who wants one because there is a mismatch between the skills of those unemployed and the skills needed for the available jobs).

Many currently facing joblessness or underemployment are utilizing a variety of methods in their search for work. One of the most popular forms of searching for work has been using search firms. But even in the current economy, that can prove to be a difficult route for some. Another trend making a resurgence in recent years has been that of the small business and particularly that of independent contractors.

Many who haven’t been able to find work in their respective fields have now taken on the task of creating work for themselves by offering those same skills to companies and individuals that may not have the budget to take on new employees with benefits but may be able to take on contracted workers.

But how does one find these companies or how do these companies find these freelancers? Many are turning to companies like Skillslate (www.skillslate.com) for help.

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Co-founded by Bartek Ringwelski, also the CEO, Skillslate is an auction site for local services that sources the best people to apply for the jobs that need to be done.

What does that mean exactly? Recently, I got a chance to interview Bartek about Skillslate, what the company does, and the man heading it.

WHO IS BARTEK RINGWELSKI?

A graduate of Columbia College, Bartek Ringwelski comes from the world of investment banking. Having worked as an investment banker in the technology group at UBS in San Francisco and later as a venture capitalist focusing on digital media investments in the New York area, Bartek became bored with the finance world. It was during his time in New York that a relatively simple search gave rise to what was to become SkillSlate.

“While I was a venture capitalist, I tried finding a cleaning person to clean my apartment and got flooded with calls from my post on Craigslist. I thought there has to be a better way, and that’s when I started thinking about creating a company like SkillSlate. From that moment onwards, I was planning on leaving finance entirely,” Ringwelski said.

“I’ve always loved the concept of entrepreneurship, but I didn’t have the guts to go at it outright and do it after college. Finance seemed like a safer career choice (at least in 2007) so I decided to do that. I started working in Industrials sector of a boutique Mergers & Acquisitions investment bank. After a year, I transitioned to technology investment banking. After a year of doing that, I transitioned to a job in venture capital, where I got to evaluate early stage technology companies to invest in.

The skills I learned in venture capital were helpful for me to raise funding for the business and for generally understanding what investors care about. That being said, most of the skills I had previously learned weren’t applicable. Knowing how to build Raine Magazine - Volume 9

complicated financial models does really help you to understand how to build a great consumer oriented product.

As many tech entrepreneurs know, finding a good name for a company is really hard. We held a competition for people to suggest a name for our company with a $100 prize. Someone suggested SkillSlate and it stuck.”

With the idea of Skillslate now fully formed and the seeds of the company nourished, Bartek was looking for the right people to help him make the company a success.

“I was moonlighting on SkillSlate while I was working my day job as a venture capitalist for about 6 months. At one point, I decided I needed to dedicate more time to the project and started looking for an MBA intern to help me with my day job. In the interview process, I met Brian Rothenberg, an MBA student from NYU Stern who had previously worked at Yahoo! Local. He was clearly the best person not only for the VC internship, but also for SkillSlate, so I told him he’d only get the VC internship if he spends 20% of his time working on SkillSlate.

He agreed and the rest was history. He was our first hire. Everyone else on the team (Lawrence Wang and Mike Nelson) came together either through personal connections or through referrals.”

SO SKILLSLATE IS AN AUCTION SITE? LIKE EBAY?

“We describe it as an auction because we strive to make information transparent to all parties involved. That being said, unlike items that your purchase on eBay, the value of people’s talents and services is rooted as much in their ability to the job, but also in whom they are as a person, their reputation, and their references. As a result, unlike an eBay auction, the lowest price offer is not typically the winning bidder. We’re still working on ways to increase the information flow

between all parties without making people feel like their skills boil down to a price per hour.

From the onset, SkillSlate was meant to be a platform that allows service providers from all professions to find work more efficiently, and for consumers to find them efficiently. We started out a lot more like Angie’s List than we are now. Our initial vision was to create a free, public directory of reviewed services providers for all services. However, after several months of pursuing this strategy, we realized that a directory list model doesn’t make sense for finding services.

First off, many businesses aren’t actively looking to take on new customers. Those who are often aren’t available when new customers need them.

As a result, we found that many of our users had to call/email 5 or more people on our site before they found someone who could do the job. That was really inefficient. On SkillSlate, a consumer spends as little as 60 seconds posting a job on our site and then comes back 48 hours later to review 5-10 applications for that job. “ SO SKILLSLATE IS KIND OF LIKE A RECRUITING AGENCY? SO WHAT MAKES IT SO DIFFERENT?

“That’s like asking how does eBay differ from a traditional auction house. The idea is the same, but the approach and execution are totally different.

Like eBay, we’re trying to create a platform to buy and sell services. In terms of qualifications, anyone can create a profile and be listed on our site. That being said, people who don’t provide trust information generally don’t get hired. As part of their profiles, we ask our members to solicit reviews, fill out licenses and certifications, and associate their account with other online identities like Facebook. Soon, we’ll start doing background checks as well. Trust is a huge component of this marketplace and we’re now just starting to scratch the surface.

In terms of how people hear about us, we are a demand driven platform and often build our base of service providers around a specific request that comes

in. We have a growing team of “SkillScouts” whose mission is to find great people to apply for any job that comes into SkillSlate. They tap personal connections and other websites for finding those people. As those service providers apply, they become part of the SkillSlate network and invited to apply for future jobs.

I believe we are entering a new type of economy – a gig economy. Gone are the days where people have one job or one specialty. Most of our members provide multiple, totally different services.

We members who are both handymen and who are musicians. We have dog walkers who are also caterers. Although I think the economy will get better, there are many people who prefer to have multiple jobs and we cater perfectly to them. For now, we are focused only on short-term gigs, but in the future, we’re considering expanding to full-time roles as well.”

BARTEK ON ENTREPRENEURISM

“I don’t think about my decision to become an entrepreneur as a career decision – it was a life decision. In many ways, being an entrepreneur is a terrible career move – especially in the tech space. I took a 50% pay cut and work harder than I did when I had a comfortable job in venture capital. As the founder of a tech company, it’s not an easy life. The stresses of managing hiring, firing, boards, progress while keeping focused on making sure our customers are having a good experience is more difficult than any job I had previously. That being said, it’s also infinitely more rewarding when things go well. Each day I come to work, I know I’m creating value. That’s an amazing feeling.

SKILLSLATE AND THE FUTURE

In 5 years, I want to have helped hundreds of thousands of people get connected with trusted, reliable service providers – from handymen to children’s entertainers. This is a big space with a lot of players, and it will take time for us to become a household name. More than anything, our path to success will be rooted in delivering real value to our users. If we lose sight of that, we’ll lose.

In 10 years, it will be 2021 - who knows what the world will look like then. 10 years ago it was 2001, Google had just started getting popular and Facebook, which is now the 2nd most popular website in the world, was still 3 years in the future. That being said, if we continue down the path we’re on now, I see SkillSlate as a publicly traded company and servicing millions of customers a year.

Interested in finding out more about SkillSlate and what Bartek and his team have to offer?

Visit www.skillslate.com.

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A DOSE OF CULTURE

Vienna

A Paradoxical Paradise

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Written by Caylena Cahill

Travelers looking for a fresh spin on the narrow, cobblestone streets and beatnik atmosphere of a “typical European city” will get a taste of unforgettable when they visit Vienna, Austria.

Located in southern central Europe, Vienna has not only had a plentiful history – through centuries of imperial rule, several wars, and even some golden ages – which has left a visible impact throughout the city, but also, as the capitol of Austria, this major modern metropolis continues to forge an innovative path into the future. The old city remains intact and atmospheric while it adapts to contemporary conveniences and perpetually sponsors cultural events to inspire forward motion, as well as creative and economic development.

Tourists of all backgrounds arrive in Vienna with wildly different expectations for this multi-faceted city and leave feeling nostalgia

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for the unique and awe-inspiring harmony of traditional and trendy, posh and down-to-earth, delectable and fulfilling, and entertaining and relaxing.

With so much to offer, it is hard to know where to start – sightseeing both the overwhelming effects of royal imperialism on gorgeous buildings and the crazy, colorful creations of Austrian artist Friedrich Hundertwasser, relaxing in one of Vienna’s famous coffee houses after chowing down on some world-famous wiener schnitzel, or even appreciating the truly incomparable sounds of the Vienna Philharmonic in the elegantly flamboyant auditorium at the Musikverein.

One thing is clear, though: each attraction will leave visitors wanting more and the geographic variety will have them hopping across town hoping to catch some stray melodies drifting through the air while they waltz through the streets glimpsing stunning views and melting in the

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tantalizing scents of Viennese cuisine.

That’s right – not “Austrian,” but Viennese. The cuisine from this city, a star in the eyes of the foodies around the world, has earned its own title and merit thanks to its unparalleled style and flavors - from classic sausage hot dogs or Tafelspitz (a boiled beef dish) to the multitude of coffee shops serving internationally renowned coffees – the culture of which some believe started when invading Turks left Vienna after the 1683 siege and, legend has it, left behind sacks of their coffee beans. Whether true or not, the fact is that a Viennese vacation would not be complete without sipping some locally roasted coffee at one of the numerous cafes. Try the Alt Wien Kaffee, for example, which roasts small batches daily and offers 14 different handpicked varieties. It is great for a break after lunch and a stroll through the nearby Naschmarkt.

Hosting more than 120 stands, Naschmarkt is easily the most widespread and well known of the Viennese open-air markets. It features gastronomic gifts, from fresh fruit, vegetables, and spices to sit-down meals of Viennese, Vietnamese, Italian and even Indian foods, so it is sure to satisfy the senses and stomachs of even the pickiest eaters. For dessert it would be a sin to miss the celebrated Sachertorte, a mouthwatering chocolate cake made known to the world by the 5-star Hotel Sacher in the Innenstadt section of Vienna, right next to the Staatsoper (the state opera house).

A Mecca for music aficionados, Vienna’s got it all.

From classical and opera to pop, rock and techno – and even its own special genre, Wienerlied – this music capitol has been home to many-a-musical-creator, including Schubert, Strauss, Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, and Falco – to name just a select few. In addition to the several concert halls and opera houses; music lovers and passionate fans can visit places like Mozarthaus, Mozart’s own apartment-converted-museum, to get a feel for the composer’s lifestyle.

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Music is not reserved for the wealthy, aged, or even classically trained musicians. The bustling nightlife and hip scene allow for a range of options from tourist-oriented programs with traditional Austrian song to all the aspects of a modern-day city: night clubs, DJs, pop and rock concerts, and even year round music festivals. Not to mention, the notes from the accordions, guitars, or other instruments of customary street performers that dance through the air swirling into the ears of tourists and residents alike.

These performers along with human statues and mimes, while common throughout the city, lend themselves to the charm of pedestrian areas in downtown Vienna, like Stephansplatz. This huge pedestrian square is home to the Stephansdom, a giant cathedral, the Haas Haus, a completely contemporary glass building, and tons of shops and restaurants. Certainly a fantastic place to begin one’s Viennese spending splurge, stopping here would do a disservice to the myriad trendy, cult, fashion, designer, luxury, vintage, and otherwise intriguing boutiques quintessential to the city’s striking shopping appeal. The flair of quirky shops will definitely excite everyone, from browsers to shopaholics.

While navigating the city’s countless spending spots and taking in the lavish goods, it will be impossible to miss the opulent, iconic, and anomalous architecture illustrious of Vienna’s glamour and distinguished style. Going to Austria’s capitol makes it easy to trace the chronology of building forms and appreciate true gems of architectural masterpiece.

Avid historical architectural fans can start by visiting Emperor Sisi’s grandiose baroque Schönbrunner Palace from the 17th century and then continue on by moving between the majestic Ringstraße buildings (including the State Opera, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Parliament building) of the second part of the 19th century. Those who prefer more modern or strange structures will love the elaborate details of the ornate Art

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Nouveau sites (like the Secession Building), the colorful, odd-ball façades of the HundertwasserHaus and KunstHausWien, and the ultra-modern/contemporary sites like the Gasometer and the Danube City.

If the culinary concepts, shopping, music and architecture are not enough, the Wiener Prater is there to top it all. The vast public park in the second district of the city includes an amusement park, the Wurstelprater, that proudly owns one of Vienna’s most iconic items: the Wiener Riesenrad – one of the world’s earliest and largest Ferris Wheels, built in 1897 and measuring in at over 200 feet tall. Tourists visiting this immense place have no need to worry about experiencing a notable trip thanks to over 250 attractions, including colorful rides like the merry-go-round, rollercoaster and 117-ft tall “Chairoplane” called The Prater Tower, as well as a massive green forest area which once was used for imperial era hunting and currently opens itself to walkers, runners, cyclists and horseback riders. Haunted attractions, games, an auto-drome rink and even more cafes and restaurants are also packed together in the Prater for a fun and chilling time.

With all of its remarkable and entertaining sites, superb museums and performers, and scrumptious food and drinks, Vienna’s both typical and atypical nature is there to please and no matter what the cause for going, it will remain forever in the minds of those who encounter it.

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A DOSE OF CULTURE

RICHARD ALVAREZ

LESS BEYOND (2OF 4) PIGMENT, PAPER AND GLITTER ON GLASS 13 INCHES X 22 FEET

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RQPTURE

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About Richard: Richard was born in the Bronx, deeply influenced by the Dominican culture of his father and neighborhood. His unique process of reverse painting on glass with glitter and acrylics, allows for a transformation of an individual into a miraculous display of flowers.

"Less-Beyond is the result of a commission that Patricia Field asked me to do, being a huge fan of my work she approached me to do a piece that was site specific and one of a kind. Patricia gave me complete freedom and just asked that it be colorful. The piece was installed in her kitchen area and consists of glass panels that are lit from behind.

On the wall behind the glass I affixed a rose printed pink gauze like paper. Both the glass and paper have images of the female form. On the glass are images of the female in every day life (conscious). On the paper I painted a more sexual suggestive existence (sub-conscious). Patricia loves to entertain and often cooks while her guests sit at a bar with the kitchen behind her, Less-Beyond is center stage and Patricia has a colorful beautiful back drop, exactly what she wanted.

Whenever I see her she tells me how many compliments she gets for her beautiful Alvarez!!!! "

-Richard Alvarez Researched by Nekisha Slade Raine Magazine - Volume 9

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JAMES ROMM

A DOSE OF CULTURE

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What is your work schedule like when you’re writing?

If I’m not teaching, I try to make full use of the morning hours. I make myself sit down at the keyboard after breakfast and write, even if I’m not sure where I’m going. If I get a full morning of writing in, I don’t push it any further; my work won’t be as good if I’m not fresh. I can always do research or revision in the afternoon.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I’m incredibly irresponsible about compiling footnotes. The natural thing would be to write them as I go, when all the sources are right there in front of me.

But I can’t bear to break the momentum of writing. It takes three times as long to go back and recover the information later, but by now I’ve accepted that it’s just how I work.

How do books get published?

Traditionally, an agent, based on a written proposal, will sell books to a publisher.

That’s changing somewhat with the rise of self-publishing via the Internet and vanity presses, but it’s still the basic framework.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I have always wanted to write, but I got somewhat sidetracked into scholarly writing after getting my Ph.D. In the academy, you’re expected to write a certain way, without emotion or dramatization. I adopted that style for almost twenty years before deciding I wanted to write in a different mode.

As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

My first ambition was to be a marine biologist. I was deeply moved by the life of the sea. I’m still a passionate surf fisherman today.

What main genre do you write in?

I call it: dramatized history. I try to bring episodes of ancient history to life in a way that is responsible and accurate, but also vivid and emotional in the manner of tragic drama. Just as with drama, the story has to have a unity of time frame and action. My new book, “Ghost on the Throne: The Death of Alexander the Great and the War for Crown and Empire,” covers just seven years of historical time.

How long does it take you to write a book?

Several years. I’m obsessive about revision, and I go over my language again and again.

I’m never satisfied. Turning in the final set of proofs is a traumatic experience for me.

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

I’m a classical scholar by training, and I’ve spent a lot of time reading the great ancient historians. Herodotus, Thucydides, Plutarch and Tacitus were superb storytellers, and they knew how to bring characters to life. My initial inspiration comes from them. Then I do lots and lots of research.

When did you write your first book?

Like many academics, I published my Ph.D. thesis as a book. It’s called “The Edges of the Earth in Ancient Thought.” There’s no story or characters, but the writing is pretty good.

What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

I already mentioned surf fishing. I’m now getting interested in kayak fishing as well. I don’t catch a lot of fish, but it’s a heck of an adventure. I also have a family, and we spend lots of time together.

What does your family think of your writing?

My wife and oldest daughter are great fans.

My two younger kids aren’t interested in the least, and I’m glad they’re not. It would be very oppressive to live in a household of people who all felt involved with my writing.

How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

I have five books already published, but they’re geared mostly for specialists and Raine Magazine - Volume 9

students. “Ghost on the Throne,” forthcoming in October, is my first effort to reach a wide audience, and it’s the most gratifying thing I’ve ever done.

Do you have any suggestions to help anyone become a better writer? If so, what are they?

A friend of mine who’s a professional writer keeps a picture on his wall of bricks being laid. He’s reminding himself that writing is a kind of construction project. At the very best moments, there’s something mystical about it, something that comes from pure inspiration.

But a lot of the time, its just putting one brick on top of another. Once you realize that, you start getting better at how you lay the bricks.

What do you think makes a good story?

Great characters are the essential ingredients.

Also a balance of male and female characters, which in the context of ancient history, is not easy to find.

- - -

Which of your characters is most/ least like you, and in what way(s)?

I identify with all my characters, which is part of why I like to dramatize them. I feel I can see the world through their eyes. I don’t really regard any historical figures as evil, and none are purely good.

They’re a mixture of virtues and flaws, like all of us.

What’s been the most challenging part of writing for you?

Making myself do it even during the peak of fishing season.

Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

My favorites are ancient writers, which is why I’m a classicist. There’s nothing better than Herodotus. He cannot be matched for his ability to see the humor and the gravity in the human condition at one and the same time.

I wrote a book about 15 years ago trying to explain why Herodotus is so great. Everyone should read him, and those who want to start should look up the Reading Odyssey on the web and join their local reading groups.

What book are you reading now? What are your thoughts on it?

I’m reading the Moral Epistles of the philosopher Seneca, who’s the subject of the book I am currently working on. Seneca had a fascinating life as advisor to the emperor Nero, but his letters do not reflect that.

They’re philosophical musings, some of them rather tedious. For my work I need to read them all, but I wouldn’t recommend that anyone else do that.

by Nekisha Slade 53

cellist Nina Kotova 54

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Lisa-Marie Mazzucco

by Marilyn R. Wilson

hotographer, make-up artist, hair and fashion stylist, film developer, photo re-toucher – these are just a few of the talents that Lisa-Marie Mazzucco brings to the table. Although she candidly questions whether she is creative by nature, the myriad of classical musicians who flock to her Montauk studio to be captured on film would disagree. An innate ability to create intimacy in their romantic, classical portraits is also a testament to her artistry. Almost every photo shoot is a private affair where she handles all aspects, many times with just the musician and their instrument in attendance, and she wouldn't have it any other way.

Lisa-Marie started out in her late teens as a fashion model in front of the camera. She soon stepped behind the scenes to help with make-up, hair and styling – all self-taught skills. At the age of 24, she met a new fashion photographer by the name of Raphael Mazzucco. They began working together on shoots and, as this was still the era of film, he introduced her to the dark room. True to nature she quickly added those skills to her growing resume. When Raphael decided to leave for Italy two months later, Lisa-Marie threw caution to the wind and joined him. What followed were six years together in international fashion centers including Milano, Amsterdam and Montreal.

In the beginning they did model tests in their Milano apartment. “We had a 700 square foot apartment and finished six shoots a day. I worked on make-up at the kitchen table and Raphael shot in the bedroom. We worked for every agent in Milan at the time.”

When both signed with agents, they started doing individual bookings as well. Along the way a son was added – Sascha. Lisa-Marie specifically remembers her time working in Amsterdam. “I didn't have baby sitters, nannies or family, so I would just put him in his snugly on my back while I worked all day.” When the couple finally landed in New York, it was time for a break. Raphael's career was taking off and required constant traveling. Lisa-Marie wanted to step back from the busy work schedule and spend more time with their 2-year old son. The opportunity still arose to work on jobs from home, but the hectic pace was left behind.

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Guitarist Sascha Mazzucco

W

hen Sascha entered school, Lisa-Marie felt the itch to take on a new challenge – photography.

“There was no learning curve for me. I had been doing everything except this for years and was so integrated into the whole process that I felt like a photographer after the very first shoot.” Wanting to work with people outside the fashion world, she started by taking head shots for actors. I built my first website and listed it on all the photographer sites I could find. My first musician found me through that website. We shot her album cover and promotional photos and once I finished my first classical shoot, that's when photography started to become a career.” Word of mouth proved to be the most effective advertising, quickly bringing in new clients. Her resume has now grown to list over 100 album covers with clients including Sony Records and classical musicians such as Yi-Jia Susanne Hou, Anne Akeiko Myers, The Emerson Quartet, Simone Dinnerstein, Zuill Bailey and Joshua Bell.

There have been a few interesting stories along the way.

When Lisa-Marie shot her first violinist, she didn't really know much about classical instruments. “We were shooting on the beach and I was working without an assistant. I had my camera, my bag and a hair/make-up kit around my waist. I needed him to get up on this big rock so I could shoot a silhouette and offered to hold his violin. He gently gave it to me and I didn't think twice, 56

I just stuck it between my knees so I could hold my camera. He went chalk white and almost fainted. It was after that I realized his violin was worth millions – it was a Stradivarius.”

Because of the intimacy of the shoot, artists also often share their personal stories. One of her favorite stories was told by Yi-Jia Susanne Hou. “Her father was a classical violinist who was persecuted during the Cultural Revolution and fled to Canada. At the age of only four, she asked when he was going to teach her to play. He was overjoyed, but they couldn't find a violin small enough for her tiny frame. There was a maple log in the fireplace, so her father took it out and carved her a violin by hand.

She said she would never forget the sound. 'It wasn't pretty but it was music to me.' It has now come full circle and China invited them back to perform with her father the conductor and she the solo violinist.”

Lisa-Marie Mazzucco is one of those rare artists that does not wish for fame. The private nature of each session fits comfortably into her lifestyle and producing the final image uses every one of the many talents acquired over the years. She is here to stay. “I'm in a great place. I do it now because I love the whole process of creating. I would never give it up.”

To view more of Lisa-Marie Mazzucco's photography go to www. lisa-mariephotography.com.

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Violinist Tricia Park

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BEAUTY

Saky Sacks Reusable bags $20-$25 USD 58

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ET TO KNOW ECO LUXURY with Beauty & The Bags

As summer comes to an end and we slowly but surely step into fall, we as entrepreneurs find ourselves adjusting ourselves to the forthcoming season. It is absolutely necessary to find essential pieces and products that transition well into our busy lives as we move from the beaches and back into the boardrooms. This product lineup will have you shopping for essential Eco-Luxury items, which are those very special items that are good for our dear Mother Earth and also encompass the luxury lifestyle that we all deserve.

Creator and Founder Rupa Wickrama traveled the globe for over 20 years - all in the name of fashion doing

by Kia Rodriguez

everything from construction to design before she started Saky Sacks over a year ago. Having been seen on the arms of celebrities like Miley Cyrus, Tyrese and The Biebs, Saky Sacks is starting an Eco-Revolution one gorgeous reusable bag at a time. These bags define Eco-Luxury with their high style designs and high usability factor for men and women.

Not only are they durable and reusable, but these bags are washable which is great news for all the germaphobes out there. Featuring bags with a signature attached key ring and clasp closure, they easily carry from the supermarket to the gym without missing a beat. Once your bag has reached the point of no return, Saky Sacks will recycle it for you.

Louis Vuitton Toiletry Pouch 19 $330 USD This is a must have for all of us. The Pouch is not too big, not too small and sized just right for the busy mover and shaker. It is the middle child of the Toiletry Pouch series that is perfect for both men and women. From iPhone chargers to make-up, Louis Vuitton has us carrying it all in Eco-Luxe style. It features the classic Monogram Canvas golden brass zipper and a washable lining. Not a bit of waste here as this pouch will last a lifetime no matter who you are, where you’ve been or, more importantly, where you are going with it.

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Lancome Juicy Tubes $18.00 USD This past season Lancome released a limited edition of Juicy Tubes that are made from 100% natural origin. These ultra sheer lip-glosses are in perfectly portable, one of a kind packaging, designed by renowned Japanese visual artist Yayoi Kusama. Each individual gloss comes in a stylish nature inspired tube and will only be around for a limited time, so do your part for Eco-Luxury and stock up on all 20 fabulously sheer colors.

Made from Earth These products are as real as it gets when it comes to nourishing and cleansing our body. Free of chemicals, dyes and harsh fragrances this line is about as pure as it gets. They are organic and holistic with lush ingredients like green tea, organic honey and sea salt, which will leave you feeling cleansed in all the goodness Mother Nature has to offer. My product standout from this line is the Pure Aloe Vera Skin Treatment whose super potent formula both moisturizes and heals.

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Prevention, Maintenance and Rejuvenation.

It’s all about healthy skin.

www.epiceinternational.com

ENTERTAINMENT

BACKSTAGE PASS

ON THE SCENE

OPENING CELEBRATION OF CLEO SPA AND SALON GRAMERCY

Beauty and wellness entrepreneur Cleo Jung celebrated the opening of her eponymous Cleo Spa and Salon Gramercy at 260 – 264 Third Ave along with hosts Ainsley Earhardt, Michelle Edgar, Kimberly Guilfoyle, and Luigi Tadini.

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BACKSTAGE PASS

ON THE SCENE SVEDKA Vodka's National Walk Of Shame party

Denise Richards, Robert Kardashian, Adrienne Bailon, Real Housewives Of New York’s Kelly Bensimon, Real Housewives Of New Jersey’s Teresa Guidice, along with her husband Joe, and Melissa Gorga as well as former Jersey Shore cast-mate Angelina Pivarnick, among others, joined SVEDKA Vodka as they declared July 27th National Walk Of Shame Day, in celebration of the debut of SVEDKA’s Walk Of Shame Party Pack. Rocker Pete Wentz set the tone for the celebration behind the DJ turntables before performing live, with his band The Black Cards, later in the evening.

Guests were treated to SVEDKA’s all-new specialty cocktails, the “Badge Of Honor” and the “All-Nighter” as they chatted about their experiences with the Walk Of Shame.

SVEDKA Vodka, the popular spirits brand amongst Hollywood’s hottest stars, young and old, including Kim Kardashian, Betty White, Zac Efron, Ashley Olsen, Whitney Port and Jen Aniston, among many others, is excited to announce the debut of SVEDKA’s Walk Of Shame Party Pack.

In celebration of the launch, SVEDKA Vodka tasked consumers to forget the blame, embrace your game and celebrate the walk of shame as it declared July 27, 2011, the first annual National Walk Of Shame Day.

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A PEAK INTO A MOST EXCLUSIVE EVENT

By Melissa Cooper

Raine Magazine has the inside on New York City’s most exclusive events.

Being surprised in New York is no easy task, however with the introduction of Le Diner Masque not only will one be wined, and dined you will be entertained beyond your wildest imagination.

As the name suggests this masquerade dinner combines sophisticated gastronomy in an alluring setting with wonderful conversation, and fabulous entertainment, a must join whether a native New Yorker or an out of town guest.

The creativity and masterful execution that launched this ongoing event is the brainchild of Executive Chef Yoanne Magris, restaurateur, caterer and two-time guest on the Food Channel show “Chopped”. Her passion for refined food and impeccable service is devotedly combined with her love of theater, “…and this is why we love the New York experience”. Chef Yoanne engaged Creative Director Adriana Zani and several silent partners who add to the elegance of the affair by gliding through the evening as hosts.

In order to secure a seat at Le Diner Masque and be made privy to the mysterious location shortly before the event, one must be procure an invitation.

Enter Pronoun Studio in SoHo was the location for the latest event. The dramatic chandeliers, fireplace and exposed brick were a perfect complement to this intimate affair.

This ingenious dinner series is most humbly priced for the experience and quality of cuisine. Guests enjoy cocktails and hors d’ oeuvres, followed by a four course tasting menu with wine pairings.... and do not be surprised if the masked beauty next to you is a celebrity.

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INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT

photography by Matt Haylett www.matthaylett.com styling by Krista Sung at THEYrep.com makeup and hair by Marlayna Pincott at lizbellagency.com shot at Sugar Studios www.sugarstudios.com

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pearl necklace ‘Cruella’ by House of Bun www.houseofbun.com dress: Rosemin at Jules and Eve earrings: Jeweliette www.jeweliette.com

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HOUSE OF BUN Bringing Back Glamour

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by Marilyn R. Wilson

arola Bun created her first pearl

necklaces to show off these unique details. When

later, her brand – The House

her personal favourites is the “Coco” necklace, a

necklace in August 2010. A year of Bun – has already grown to

include four unique collections as well as a signature parfum

– Lady Godiva. With pieces owned by celebrities

such as Lady Gaga, DJ Lady Starlight and New York photographer/make-up artist Lisa Marie Mazzucco, this talented designer is poised on the brink of

becoming an international sensation. Her mission?

To bring glamour and romance back in style…

Several influences have contributed to

Bun’s deep love of simplicity paired with elegance.

Exposure to the arts through several years of ballet training can certainly be glimpsed in her aesthetic, but the designer’s greatest inspiration comes from the revered style icon, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel.

Exquisite, high-quality white and black glass pearls in graduated sizes, semi-precious stones and

Austrian Swarovski crystals are the raw materials used to create investment pieces reflecting that

same feeling of sophistication and timelessness.

All jewelry is made by the designer’s own

hands and each has a story, sometimes inspired

by a dream. Bun shares, “Often I’ll wake-up in the middle of the night to scribble down a new idea.

A great deal of time is then spent perfecting the

concept on paper: choosing what colors of crystals,

how many strands of pearls, how long. Then I move on to working with the pearls to design a perfect

setting. This can often mean re-stringing the pearls over dozen times to get it just right.” Sparkling

clasps and silver charms are an integral part of the overall design and customers often rotate their

complete, each is christened with a name. One of single long strand adorned with a tiny pair of silver scissors.

Bun passionately believes pearls are the

perfect choice whether for day or evening. “Pearls accentuate a woman’s true beauty and highlight

their complexion. They can also create a statement piece when paired with a classic outfit. I’m really

interested in simplifying women’s lives and helping

them to learn to style themselves. With pearls that just happens.” Whether it’s a stunning showpiece paired with a chic gown or a single elegant strand combined with a blazer and jeans, the designer

believes pearls provide a way to bring a little Coco

Chanel sophistication back into every area of one’s life. While the white pearl and crystal necklaces of the other lines exude elegance, the “dark and

magical” Phantome collection offers dramatic black and white show-stopping pieces. Two must-have

items from this last collection are the choker and the unique ankle cuff offered in several different widths.

With phenomenal growth comes change.

At the request of clients wanting a more luxurious

option, cultured pearls were recently added to the

line. The designer is also busy expanding House of Bun internationally and working constantly on the

creation of new designs such as the just released

pearl bikini. Carola Bun has clear goals for the next few years and is ready for the journey ahead. “I

want to have an impact on the fashion industry and I want it to be very simple and clear. I’m always

anticipating the next big step and I will do whatever it takes to get there.”

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Raine Magazine - Volume 9

necklace ‘Lady Bun’ from House of Bun collar ‘Mademoiselle Vionnet’ from House of Bun www.houseofbun.com dress: Designers Remix Collection at Jules and Eve bracelet: Jenny Packham @ Jeweliette www.jeweliette.com rings: Jeweliette

necklace ‘Phantom Queen’ from House of Bun www.houseofbun.com dress: Dace jacket: Designers Remix Collection at Jules and Eve bracelet and ring: Jeweliette www.jeweliette.com

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INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT

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Raine Magazine - Volume 9

Mack-Sam

T he F uture of M enswear

Mack-Sam

by Marilyn R. Wilson

Mackenzie Sam comes by his innate love of art and design naturally. One grandfather in particular, a traditional Chinese painter and shoe-maker, exerted a strong influence; but it wasn’t until high school that fashion became a focus. Unable to afford the labels that inspired him, Sam took to the sewing machine and never looked back. A recent graduate of the prestigious menswear program at F.I.T in New York, Sam is now working as an assistant designer for John Varvatos where he continues to fine-tune his skills.

Growing up in Vancouver, his interest in fashion developed with clothing seen in stores and online – all labels out of his reach financially. As Sam attempted to replicate these designs in his home economics class in highschool, a supportive teacher made all the difference. “I was very fortunate to have a professor that offered me the freedom to work on my own. It gave me a chance to learn for myself and develop my own techniques and ways of sewing.” While the professor often received requests from other students, Sam’s work at the time was personal.

After high school, F.I.T in New York was the obvious choice. The school offered a chance to specifically study menswear with a strong focus on technical construction. The program also offered many surprises. Sam shares, “There’s a lot that goes into design for menswear that you wouldn’t expect. It’s very precise. I also didn’t realize how traditional it is...My professors have shaped who I am today. They developed my eye to have a balance between a really well designed garment and one that is wear-able. It really changed the way I look at a garment on a hanger.”

Even before graduation, the fashion industry began to take notice. First was his award-winning offering called, “The Age and The End of Lillies”. Next was the annual “Fusion” competition between F.I.T and Parsons where out of a field of 30 designers, he walked away with first place.

This winning collection titled “Tusks” - a reference to something elegant, but strong with shapes inspired by nature - was expanded and brought to his hometown in April 2011 for a stunning presentation at Vancouver Fashion Week. It was a chance to show friends, family and the local fashion community how he had grown. “This line wasn’t for production. There’s a lot more I need to learn before I dive in. It was for people to get familiar with my designs and see the growth over the last few years.” The garments also presented a clear picture of where this talented artist might take menswear in the future.

As a collection designed for the runway, it was free to offer unique surprises such raw edges at the hem in some suit jackets. Wool felt loin clothes were paired with open jackets, slim capris and leggings. Drop crotches could be seen as well fluid draped shirts. Outer wear ranged from waist-length to mid-calf. Colours washed in a flow from Dove Gray to Charcoal to Black.

There was a fine line walked between softness and structure that is beautifully balanced. This collection offered a new look on elegance for men that is out of the box, but still most decidedly masculine.

While the ultimate goal for Mackenzie Sam is to launch his own line - Mack-Sam, for now it is important to continue to grow. “I am focusing on who I am as a designer and want to develop in all aspects of design first. Loving so many different worlds of fashion and bringing them together not only seems right to me, but is who I am.” If the world of menswear will wait until that moment is right is hard to say.

For more information or to contact Mackenzie Sam, please visit his website at http://www.macksam.com.

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Photos By: Dale Rollings

www.nkiruamerica.org