Search This Blog

Monday, August 20, 2012

Music Spotlight: Kirby Lauryen | The IDEAL Magazine


Follow Me on Pinterest 

WALKING IN HER GIFT – Kirby Lauryen
The IDEAL Magazine | Words: Stephanie Walker, Writer

We have all said that this is the year that I will start over. This is the year that I do me.  For Kirby Lauryen, 2012 is that year.  Having always known that music was her gift, she decided to use it. Kirby says, “I couldn’t imagine going another year of my life not doing what I was put on this earth to do.” Since this declaration, she has not looked back.

Her current project, “A Song a Day” is a soulful yet country mix of music.  The songs on this project showcase Kirby’s ability to tell a story.  Her soulful voice pulls you in to the story and you are compelled to listen to the end.  Whether standing alone or in front of the piano, her talent is undeniable.  Her goal is not just for you to listen to her music, but to feel alive by it.

“We live day to day and sometimes get caught in the monotony of it all.  Getting up at the same time, eating the same food, most of us just want to feel alive.  So when you turn on my music, I want you to feel like you are experiencing yourself in full and in color.”
At 23 she is very clear on her direction and the impact music has on her life as well as that of others. Kirby states, “Music is the soundtrack to romance.  When we think about love, there’s a song we hear that correlates with that feeling...It’s important to continue to put the romance into lyrics, because at the end of the day, we all want that.” Yes we do.

To hear more of Kirby Lauryen visit
www.kirbylauryensings.bandcamp.com
youtube.com/kirbylauryensings
twitter @kirbylauryen
Facebook.comkirbylauryen
Share:

Friday, August 17, 2012

Mini Caprese Salad




Follow Me on Pinterest 

The IDEAL Magazine
Food & Fun
Mini Caprese Salad

Enjoying a mini caprese salad can be tasty and healthy at the same time providing a good amount of protein while being light in the sugar department. It is a quick an easy snack that uses grape tomatoes, mozzarella, basil leaves and balsamic vinegar. Hold it all together with a toothpick and Wha-lah! It is perfect to enjoy as a snack or serve while entertaining inside or out. A mini caprese salad is quick, yet elegant food.
Share:

Monday, August 13, 2012

Music Spotlight: Heroine December | The IDEAL Magazine



Follow Me on Pinterest 

The Twinz “Make Weekends Fun” 
Words: Dave Orr, Writer | Photos Courtesy of Ann Klienhenz
The IDEAL Magazine www.idealpr.com

There is a new band on the scene named Heroine December. They have a hot new single and video “Weekend,” and the lead singers are none other than twin sisters Mandy and Nandy Mclean. Prince fans know them as ‘The Twinz’ after their frequent appearances dancing and singing on his tours and in his video “Fury.”

Speaking to The Twinz about their background, a picture of a diversely cultured world becomes vividly clear.  Raised in Australia, they described their childhood with memories of exploring mountains and forests, searching for natural crystals, as well as bush-walking, and the physical challenges of “rockhopping” in creeks.

The Twinz’s father, Bruce Mclean, of Trinidadian descent, was also a musician who played acoustic guitar (Jazz/Trini), in a similar style to George Benson, and gave them their first guitars at the age of five.  They fondly recall dressing up like Michael Jackson and putting on shows.  This was a habit that has carried on through this day, as they have continued to perform as a duo in shows such as “Moulin Rouge,” “The Lion King,” and the films “Son of the Mask” and “Surfer Dude.” In addition, they have toured with artists Rihanna, Chris Brown, Letoya Luckett and most notably Prince.

When asked about how they overcome the challenges of a highly competitive industry, The Twinz emphasize self-belief and surrounding themselves with the right people.  Discussing their creative interactions with Prince, while choreographing stage shows for the recent “Welcome 2 America Tour,” they described keeping it “organic” and explained that “Prince knows what he wants, visually and musically.”  They were observant of his vision, created ideas, and he worked with them to bring their vision to fruition on stage.
The intensity, night after night, of the “Welcome 2 America” shows was high, and the schedule was grueling.  The Twinz, however, were not faded by this and said that “... the cycle of the reward of giving...” resulted in “... more energy generated,” which kept them charged and inspired each night.

The Twinz co-write the band’s songs, including the acoustic ballad “I Believe,” which displays a depth of soul and caring hearts.  They stated that they have to be connected emotionally, connect with the audience, and prefer “organic over contrived” when it comes to creating music. The Twinz mentioned artists such as Pink, whose “giving attitude” they admire, Sting, India Arie and Wyclef as those they would like to collaborate with in the future.

Along with The Twinz,  Heroine December’s band is made up of Brad Lindsey (Guitar), Kevin Welsh (Keys), Matt Denis (Bass),and Mike Robins (Drums).  Currently, Heroine December is promoting their single and video for “Weekend” and working on a new album project.  You can keep up with them on Facebook, Twitter and their website. Their single is available now on itunes.

Web: http://heroinedecember.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/heroinedecember
Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/Heroine-December/
itunes- ‘Weekend’: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/weekend-single/id433219411
‘Weekend’ - Music Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjncbnDdQB0

Share:

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Haute Looks: Beach Beauty | The IDEAL Magazine

Follow Me on Pinterest 

HAUTE LOOKS
The IDEAL Magazine | August 2012 | www.idealpr.com


It  is easy to make a beach adventure a fashion statement
with a pink bikini and multi-colored print cover-up from H&M.
Pair with Chanel flip-flip jellies, a Dooney & Bourke leather bag
YSL golden lip gloss in fuchsia, a pink and orange Faraone Mennella
ring, dangle some Mawi earrings and your look is complete!
Splash a few drops of Calvin Klein Euphoria and enjoy the atmosphere.
Share:

Saturday, August 11, 2012

Actor's Spotlight: Sufe Bradshaw


Follow Me on Pinterest 

The IDEAL Magazine
Words: Stephanie Walker, Writer

Sufe Bradshaw plays the no-nonsense character of Sue in the new HBO comedy "VEEP."

Acting is not what she does, it is who she is.  Sufe Bradshaw has been playing characters since she was a young girl.  Growing up in a large family, there were always talent shows and in home performances to allow her imagination to come to life.  She took that passion to the famed Actor’s Studio where she honed in on her craft.  “What I learned from the Actor’s Studio is that a character in acting can always get better...There is never a finished product.  Acting is a work in progress. It is always ok to explore the character and to treat every scene like it’s a rehearsal as opposed to a finished product.”

Sufe has definitely evolved.  Her talents have been showcased in theatre, film and most recently television.  Sufe plays the no-nonsense character of Sue in the new hit HBO comedy VEEP.  She jumped at the opportunity to work alongside such greats as Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Armando Iannucci and Simon Blackwell who have done such good work in the industry. She also sees a bit of herself in the character Sue Wilson. “I have a pretty straightforward quality about me.  What we share in common is that we are pretty straight forward.  I’m like that slightly with my acting career and my process. I am more applicable than Sue” laughs Sufe.



Sufe Bradshaw is not limited to her acting abilities.  She also practices the art of spoken word as a poet herself; this is another opportunity for her to communicate with the world.  Performing at the Greenway Court Theatre allows her to stay active with the youth.  Sufe is a community activist and has a strong passion for today’s youth. This passion is taking her to another level in her career which is that of documentarian. She is currently developing a new documentary that highlights teens in today’s world and the choices that they make.  Sufe states, “I like telling stories.  I think acting is a great conduit to communication.  The idea of being able to reach a child in China through the art of acting, I am able to communicate (hypothetically) with that kid.  That is a big power to have; it is a great tool to help people see our similarities vs. our differences.” One of Sufe’s favorite quotes is “Be the change that you want to see in the world” by Gandhi.  I do believe she is well on her way.


Share:

Friday, August 10, 2012

Grilled Shrimp Skewers...Yummy!

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Follow Me on Pinterest 

As we hold on tightly to these last few weeks of summer, it can be fun to cook on the grill, even if it is just dinner for two. Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a yummy and quick treat to create. Try adding a herb-butter sauce while grilling and squeeze a splash of lime over top of the skewers right before serving for a refreshing pop. To add more sizzle, add a couple dashes of cayenne pepper to the skewers while still on the grill. Dice up some papaya and mango, add a little honey, a few dashes of red wine vinegar and salt/pepper for an exciting dipping sauce!
Share:

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Editor's Pick of the Day: Helen Yarmak

Helen Yarmak | Photo Credit - Getty Images


Follow Me on Pinterest 


The IDEAL Magazine www.idealpr.com
Editor's Pick of the Day:  Helen Yarmak

This one shoulder Helen Yarmak dress with an illusion sleeve exudes sophistication and style. Be careful not to over accessorize this dress, as simple is best. A slim belt with a pair of dangling earrings is perfect. A nude stiletto makes it event ready.
Share:

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Fashion Sunshine




Follow Me on Pinterest 


The color yellow brings a sense of warmth and happiness created by sunshine. These Dolce & Gabbana flip flops, Christian Louboutin heels, Jill Sanders Handbag and H&M two piece bikini are great accessories to have for your trip to the beach. Wear the flip flips while in the sand, and spice it up with the Christian Louboutin heels on the boardwalk.
Share:

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

Eva Minge for Men: Hot and Cool...All At the Same Time

Eva Minge Menswear | Photo Credit: Getty Images


Follow Me on Pinterest 

This Eva Minge navy and white combination for Men wins today's Editor's Pick. It is Hot and Cool all at the same time. Smart fashion
Share:

Monday, August 6, 2012

Pink Fun



Follow Me on Pinterest 


Jello margarita shooters set in real strawberries +
a Peter Som PINK dress +
studded Christian Louboutin shoes = FABULOUS FUN!
Share:

Sunday, August 5, 2012

Invasion of the Body Painters (By Omri Malul for The IDEAL Magazine)



Words/Images: Omri Malul
The IDEAL Mag | August 2012

If you ask Michelle Heffner, a Maryland body paint artist, what are the things that make her nervous, aliens is not one of them. Actually, she just recently created one in her studio.

Every profession has its own little pet peeves. Writers have writer’s blocks, actors are scared of blanking out on their lines, and body paint artists’ worst enemy is… hiccups. “In body paint, peoples’ faces are the most intimate part, and a hiccup is one of the things that make me nervous when I work on a face,” Michelle says as she draws another green, glowing vein on the model’s mug. Then she smiles and adds, “Bad breath is another one.”




Full body painting is a lengthy process. Each project is different, but they all take hours to complete. You start with the base coat, usually in darker shades, first face hairlines, then face and then body. Feet and palms are last. The design comes next. “I usually use an air brush for the design,” says Michelle. “It is the most complicated and refined tool to deal with, but it is also the most rewarding in terms of details.”

But before the first drop of paint is dispensed, there’s research. On average, it takes Michelle about a week to prepare a design. Nature is the go-to resource for inspiration. Then comes Google. After that, she finds the right model. Usually, male body paint models are very hard to find, but not only because there are more female models than males, or because males are usually less comfortable posing in the nude. “It’s the body hair,” explains Michelle. “Males are not very willing to shave it off, a necessity in this art form.”


The art of body paint is gaining momentum and slowly becoming more recognized as a mainstream art form. A testament to that is the world’s first collective body art gallery ML, located in Philadelphia. Their mission is to free body painting from its general perception as an over-sexualized fringe art and bring it into the realm of respected fine art.



Painting mostly faces and bodies for events, Michelle would like to have the opportunity to do more abstract, fine art projects. Wishing body paint was more respected, her goal is to bring this art form to peoples’ walls. An alien walking in suburban Maryland may be that first step for human kind.











Kryolan Professional Make-up: Michelle Heffner
www.MarylandBodyPainter.com
Model: BlueRiverDream




Share:

Editor's Pick of the Day: Luca Luca

Luca Luca | Getty Images
Follow Me on Pinterest 


Today's Editor's Pick is this beautiful blue dress by Luca Luca. It flows with the slightest movement of hips and shimmers when a hint of light hits it.
Share:

Saturday, August 4, 2012

Editor's Picks: Mercedes-Benz Swim Fashion Week 2013

BCBG Max Azria

Follow Me on Pinterest 

August is here so it is time to get in that last little bit of summer fun! Trips to the pool and beach become more frequent as trips with friends and family is at an all-time high. Enjoying that last little bit of sun, vacation and time-off before school starts again makes August a special month. Here are some swimsuit looks from Mercedes-Benz Swim Fashion Week 2013 a couple of weeks ago...Right on time to help get you in the mood for your labor-day weekend trip coming up!

(Photo Credit: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

Agua Bendita

Agua Di Lara

Caffe Swimwear

Dolores Cortes

L Space by Monica Wise

Poko Pano

ÉCLAIRÉE



Share:
© IDEAL PR MEDIA | All rights reserved.
Blog Design Handcrafted by pipdig