YEEZUS - Why Kanye Needs a New PR Team

     With all of the recent happenings in the life of the West family, it doesn't shock (or shouldn't at least), the ignorance of Kanye West. After all, this 'legendary' family isn't so legendary after all; lets just ask the Australians.
       Last week, Kanye performed in Australia and, like many artists, asked for his fans to engage. However, Kanye or 'YEEZUS,' asked for a little more engagement and stopped performing to get it. Just to paraphrase,  Kanye made it 'mandatory' to stand up, unless they were in a wheelchair or "got a special parking pass and s***.' But to make matters worse, fans were trying to communicate with him that a few fans were in a wheelchair or had a prosthetic. So why on Earth did he sent Pascal (member of his entourage) to check on the issue? This is just pure ignorance and has made waves across social channels. Unlike the incident with Taylor Swift, he continued without an apology....
        Bringing it back, his wife Kimberly Kardashian-West claims he has nothing to apologize for. Considering they are entitled to their own opinion, this is perfectly fine, but their ethics and morals are definitely not where they should be. Everyone's entitled to their own!

     

Are All Musicians Sellouts?

Growing up in a household where music was a priority, I have always had my opinions of certain artists and bands. On a recent Sunday morning, my dad and I were watching various music television channels and a particular band began to stream and this is the comment I heard from him.

"Maroon 5 is a sell out."

To be completely honest, I can't say that they are or aren't. Typically when new artists rise to fame, they are showcasing their style of music, but as time goes on, that changes. I have to say, I miss the original Maroon 5, as I'm not too much of a fan of this whole 'pop' theme. What I've noticed with some of my favorite musicians is that they grow as they rise to fame and their taste in music grows with that. But, my issue is that some artists build a fan base through one genre, move to another and loose the thousands of fans they had prior to gain millions who probably have never heard of them before. Why does this matter?

Nelly. I absolutely love Nelly and admire his collaborations with Tim McGraw and Georgia Florida Line. He's one of those artists that used his talent to broaden his audience through collabs.Props to you Nelly!

Now, one artist who's had some "issues" with record companies in the United States is one of my favorites. Fefe Dobson is a songwriter and recording artist from Toronto, Canada and for some reason, is unheard of in the States. A few years ago, there were some rumors that her label wanted her to sing one type of music, which she didn't want to have part in. I personally love her spunky, blunt, and personable music, which has been labeled as 'pop-rock.' I can deal with that, but I'm curious as to know the entire story of why her music is ineligible for purchase on this side of the Falls.

Let's bring it back. A sellout can be defined as someone who betrays a cause for personal advancement (Urban Dictionary).  What I find interesting is that so many people are labeled as such, but all they did was grow as an artist or individual to only benefit themselves, which is totally fine. But let's just remember, not everyone is a sellout, only those who are in it for the money. But that's just my opinion.

Selena Gomez Battles It Out With Lupus: Let Her Be

   Privacy. Something that doesn't exactly exist in  limelight. Singer and actress, Selena Gomez, has done a pretty good job with keeping her personal life on the DL until now.

   For the last week or so, rumors have been circulating with reasons as to why Gomez cancelled her tour. Not that it's really anyone's business, but she does have a few things going on in her personal life. According to the Huffington Post, Gomez has been battling Lupus since her late teens and from what they are saying, her flares are shining their way to the surface. For those of you who do not know what Lupus is, it's an autoimmune disease that can damage parts of the body such as joints and organs, including skin from as little as six weeks to a few years.

 What can you do and how does this effect the entertainment industry? Well, considering Gomez has cancelled a number of shows, there's nothing we can do. This is a personal matter and it is up to her and her family as to whether or not continuing is in her path. It may just be best to stay close with family and wait for the flares to tone down and take the loss. From a public relations perspective, I think this would be ideal and she has made the best decision for HER health. It seems that her family and friends are getting a hold of the reins, so let's pray that she recovers and stays clear of any further flares.
 

Avril Lavigne's New Album!

Okay, cool...Quick rant.

I'm BEYOND EXCITED!!!!!!!!!

Avril Lavigne is one of my all-time favorite artists and I am just so happy that she released this album. It has been forever since she's been in the studio and I cannot commend her enough for taking a break and bettering herself.

Yes..I downloaded the album and I'm in love with it (and her marriage with Chad Kroger).

Get it girl!

Photo Credit: Avril Lavigne Official Website

A Flame for Elegance

Image via Pinterest

    Between the ages of 14 and 16, young ladies across the country (and even the world) prepare for their celebrations of life. These functions range from Qunceañeras, Sweet 16's, Bat Mitzvah, Debutantes,...the list goes on forever. What do all of these cultural celebrations have in common? At least one young lady (or woman, depending on their cultural background) may want candlelight, floral, water, and faux gems. But why should all of these piece appear separately when they can be formed into one beautiful centerpiece!

   All young women want to have an elegant night, but with their own personality incorporated. These water-filled glasses certainly present themselves well with the clear water pearls, pink flower (any color will do), all topped off with a little white floating candle. This is a simple DIY that can double as favors (if using acrylic instead of water). Surrounding the base of the glasses, place two (2) votive candles to add more lighting to the ensemble. (Don't forget, you can always add glitter or glitz to the base of the larger glasses for more shimmer!). They are very simple, yet elegant and can make any occasion beautiful. They are simple enough for a birthday celebration, yet intricate enough for something a little more formal, such as a debutante or smaller-scaled wedding. I think it's gorgeous, so let's make your next event a night to remember!

Peacock Bridal...A Blended Affair

Photo via Pinterest

    We've all seen the various trends and whether or not they fit our taste, they certainly fit the taste of others. I've always seen women look at peacock themes, but I never understood why. Is it the beauty that a peacock has and the influence it brings? Or, is it the beautifully blended colors that compliment various brides and their bridal party? Whatever it may be, this image caught my eye and made me think of all the different ways one can incorporate a peacock into their wedding day. Take a look!

Photo via Pinterest & Plectrumbanjo

These beautiful centerpieces had be blushing! Not only is this table setting simple, it's colorful and lively. The blended floral arrangement is simple and attracts light to the table, as well as serves as an excellent conversation piece. At a wedding, Sweet 16, or any formal gathering, you want guests to feel comfortable and welcomed, not overwhelmed. This is excellent and I would see this making it's way through 2013 with confidence.

Don't hesitate to go all out on your wedding. Color combinations such as blue, yellow, green, and purple can compliment any skin tone, personality, and theme preference. The groom love it too because they're not limited to bright pastels, as jewel tones tend to be calmer and more inviting for all persons. Now, if you want something a little more, throw a little 'bling' into the mix and walk down the aisle (or runway, it's your choice) in style!

Planning a Child's Celebration

    Have you ever thought that planning a children's party was simple? Well, it's really not. There is so much that goes into making the child happy, as well as their parents. that planning such a simple two hour birthday party can make your head spin. As a planner, whether professional or a family member or friend, take a variety of subjects into consideration. Time, theme, number of guests, location, food, etc...this all can make or break a party. How do you overcome these obstacles? Questions and conversations.

Princess Tea Party. Design & decor by Pure Dymonds

    During the summer it can be difficult to host a birthday party because families go on vacation, involved in other programs, or have other obligations. When planning a summer child's party, reach out to potential guests (classmates, playgroup peers, family members, friends) to get a feel for their plans so you don't stress over anything little. After this, establish a day that would fit the schedule for you and your guests. Remember, if you plan the party for 11am to 2pm, most guests will probably expect refreshments, such as pizza, hot dogs, and burgers to eat since this is a lunch time for many. Also, 4pm and later suggests refreshments because the party will more than likely run into an evening meal. Be prepared to have a general menu to provide guests with in case of any allergies. Always have fresh fruits and veggies available, as well as birthday cake (of course! This cannot be forgotten unless the birthday child has suggested something else).

Centerpieces designed by Pure Dymonds' Children's Event Designer

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    Thinking about a theme? Typically, children tend to see new television shows or movies for inspiration, but instead of going this route, take their hobbies into consideration. If a young girl is interested in butterflies or fantasy-like stories, purchasing butterfly and fairy themed supplies, along with glitter favors and a garden-themed cake or dessert, you would have the perfect party. The same would apply for young boys. If the child has an interest in trucks, purchase basic colors (if theme isn't available) and purchase a few items that would compliment the theme without costing you too much money and would be age appropriate.

     If you're really interested in planning the perfect child's birthday celebration, I personally recommend Pure Dymonds Events, a event planning and design company located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Lead designer and owner Tricia Epps has an amazing team that takes your vision, budget, and all other party aspirations and creates a remarkable show. Check out Pure Dymonds today and plan your child's next party in a fashion that will have all of your guests asking where your party creation came from.

   For more information about children's parties with Pure Dymonds, please check out their website by clicking here.
    

**All photos are courtesy of Pure Dymonds and can be found on their Facebook page.**

Melon Bowl, What?

     The summer time is one of the largest event seasons, stretching from weddings to graduation, even children's birthday parties. But have you ever wondered if the kids at your event recognize common things such as plates or serving platters? Well, Uncommon Goods, a Brooklyn, New York based company has a few items that may enlighten you with products out of the ordinary and may need a second look. 

    Artist Melanie McKenney found her inspiration in nature, but we're not talking about the cookie-cutter flowers and trees. Melanie McKenny finds inspiration in the abundant textures and colors of ordinary fruits and vegetables.
    

How does it look so perfect and clean cut? She makes a slip-cast mold from an actual watermelon. After, she then recreates the texture from the naturally formed rind (outer shell is what I call it). To add the quenching detail, each piece is decorated with a vibrant, food-safe glazes. Is it microwavable? No. Is it dishwasher safe? Yes. Will the kids love it? Yes.  Each bowl is handmade in Tonawanda, New York and vary in size based on the melon. 

    

 

$60, uncommongoods.com

Keep Calm, Pure Dymonds Events is Here

 

Pure Dymonds Events

4602-A Westgrove Court, Virginia Beach, VA 23455

Telephone: (757) 952-6731

puredymondsevents@gmail.com

 

Pure Dymonds Events

Tricia Epps

Phone: (757) 952-6731

Puredymondsevents@gmail.com

** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

Event Planning & Design Studio to Relocate in the Beach Area

“Where Simplicity Meets Chic!”

             Virginia Beach, Virginia- As of March 2013, Pure Dymonds Events, local event rental and design studio has moved locations within the area. They have moved from their previous location on Production Road to 4602 Westgrove Court, Virginia Beach, Virginia near Perseptions Driving School. Pure Dymonds Events is an Event Planning and Design Studio that focuses on the finer details of your event. They pride themselves in being a one stop shop for all event planning needs.

As a boutique company, it is the goal of five experienced women and their individual teams to produce a show that will make any event the signature event.

Pure Dymonds Events was voted Best Party Supplier in Virginia for Special Events. The awards are an annual competition recognizing some of the most popular wedding vendors at a local, national and international level. Each vendor had their own vote webpage that showed the category they were nominated for and a description of their business. There were 30 categories in total including everything from Best Accessories to Best Wedding Planner. The vendor with the most votes in their category and location won. The awards have given past clients, peers and friends a chance to support vendors who give outstanding service or provide quality products.

                 Pure Dymonds Events is an Event Rental and Design Studio that offers an array of many items for your event. We carry chair covers, sashes, centerpieces, tables, chairs, chic furniture options and more. We offer shipping nationwide anywhere in the US. To learn more about Pure Dymonds Events, visit their website puredymondsevents.com or contact Tricia Epps, CEO/Founder at (757) 952-6731.

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Hookah Luxury to Go

       Have you ever wanted to go to a hookah or shisha lounge, but didn't have the time or money? Luxury Lites, a company specializing in electronic and disposable hookahs and cigarettes, is making a difference in lives everywhere. Luxury Lites offers an array of  flavors from strawberry daiquiri to mint chocolate, apple cider, and more. Each Hookah is designed for up to 700 puffs (according to my distributor). All I know if that this is probably the best $12 I've spent in a very long time; that's a promise!

      Can Luxury Lites products be ordered online? Yes! Luxury Lites ships across the country and internationally.  Shipping varies by location, however they company does provide a tracking number, and if ordered before 2pm, shipments go out that same day. This is an offer that can't be passed up, but of course, you must be at least 18 years old to order (for all of you underage smokers, I do apologize, but it's the law). If you find this to be a product you can benefit from or enjoy try it; Luxury Lites is the way to go!

My favorite is Strawberry Daiquiri (far right)

       Facebook: Luxury Lites
     Luxury Lites Website

NACA What!?

     Okay, so for the past couple of days (and until Wednesday morning) I've been in Nashville, Tennessee for the National Association for Campus Activities Convention! For those of you who do not know what NACA is, most colleges and universities have an office for campus activities. This rangers from clubs, honor societies, Greek Life, and so much more. The options are endless. Where I attend school, our clubs do their absolute best to put on events for the student body. Our programming committee and and student activities office (as a team) put on events throughout the year for students, and the first 50 days and 50 nights are geared toward incoming students. Many schools find it difficult to plan events for theri demographic, and as a delegation, my university chose nine (9) students to attend the NACA conference to bring back and plan events for the coming semester and year.

     I know it sounds cheesy, but it's really a lot of fun. There are education events, and I'm not going to lie, they are a tad uninteresting, but maybe that's because some of the things they go over are common sense (at least for me), but it's a really great program. From education offerings to career preperation to club and lecture showcases, and even the campus marketplace, my first conference has been so much fun.

    Did you think I was going to let myself stay in a convention center all day? Um, that would be a no! As a team, my peers and I (along with our advisor of course) have branched out and vistited Braodway (downtown Nashville) and visited some interesting eateries. Let me tell you something; I don't think I've eaten this good in a very long time. I love BBQ and that's exactly what I've had since we've been here. Would I change my mind? Nope!

    For those of you who think I'm a little hyper at the moment, I am. Energy drinks are not in my vocabulary, however, tea and sugar are (I apologize for the craziness in advance via YouTube). Tuesday night or sometime on Wednesday when I get back to New York I will be doing a video on YouTube on my experience at NACA. Yes, I will be posting it here, but I have so much to share with you all that I cannot possibly type it and it sound at all enthusiastic. However, until then, please be careful with the consumption of Arnold Palmer and alcohol you consume (I am not condoning drinking, however if you are over the age of 21, Arnold Palmer and a little bit of vodka or tequila does the trick--at least that's what I've heard).

Have a wonderful week!!!!!

XOXO

To EuroDisney I Go!

    Yes, I said it. I'm almost 20 years old and I went to Disney...without a child...and without any other reason but to go and explore the world. Disney Land Paris is obviously nothing like what we're used to in the states. There are quite a few things that are the same, but the experience is completely different. Princess Aurora's castle was pretty in pink and perfect to walk through. Not only was I able to go through the castle, I was able to climb the stairs and see the different images in the stain-glass throughout. Was it worth the rain and cold? Yes. Was it worth the semi-lengthy lines? Yes. Would I ever go again? Most definently.

    There's not much I can say to describe my Disney experience soooooo.....Check out the photos below for a closer look at my Disney Paris experience. It was a day to remember, and a memory to cherish forever.

The Perfect Back-up Plan via VZN

    For many, a phone is something to keep them occupied during the day, but for others, it's part of the every day routine. Back in June, a friend of mine came across an article that sparked a little interest, not only for her, but she said it reminded her of me. Having Verizon Wireless is probably the best decision I have ever made (having been with them since I was 15), so I've never questioned much. Anyways, the article stated that Verizon announced the unleashing of a new phone plan called "Share Everything." And this is where my new life began.
    Being only 20, I pay my own bills, and have never had a problem doing so. When I renewed my contract, I chose a plan that worked for me, but knowing myself, I knew I would go over my minutes at some point. When speaking with a representative from Verizon, he did a quick analysis of my account (usage of data, minutes, and texting). I never would have expected that for the same price I was paying for 900 minutes, unlimited texting and two GB of data, I could get unlimited minutes, texting, and data for the same price with the new plans.
   My point? If you have Verizon, look into it. Whether you're on a plan with your parents, significant other, or alone, it's working looking into. You can add up to 10 devices that would share the data, minutes, and texting for one flat rate. Sounds great, right? It only takes a few minutes to do over the phone or in store, but if you're more of an internet type of person, you can visit the Verizon Wireless website, answer a few questions, and get results in less than two minutes. Take a peek, you won't be disappointed, especially if it's beneficial for you!

Verizon Wireless Share Everything

Real Wedding Talk

   No, I'm not getting married anytime soon, however, reading about weddings is a different story. Wedding Babylon-Confessions of a Wedding Planner, is a book of pure laughs, giggles, and "OMGSH" moments. Written by Imogen Edwards-Jones and Anonymous (don't ask questions, just read), the life of one of the busiest wedding planners in Europe takes you for a ride you won't forget. Take a step into a week of a wedding planner, deal with the crazy brides, over-priced cakes and catering halls, massive amounts of alcohol, and some other ridiculous events. Honestly, I didn't think I would be too into the book, however, I am still reading it, and had to put it down because if I don't, I wouldn't get any work done, let alone write this quick review.
  If you're in the United States, or even Canada, you may not be able to find this book, however, Amazon has it for £ 5.99, which is about $7.50 (at least today). You may think I'm crazy, but it's really a good book, especially if you're not sure as to what to read. My advice? Click the link below and take a peak. You never know what you might find!

Click Here: Wedding Babylon-Confessions of a Wedding Planner

Hooplah for Kofola!

   I know what you're thinking, "It's Europe. They drink beer, right?" Yes, they drink beer (not so much hard liquor), but they also keep to their history from under the Communist ruling. The Czech's have a cola-like beverage called Kofola. It's kind of like the U.S.'s Pepsi or Coke, but not as quenching. Having been in the Czech Republic for a week, I figured it was time to give it a try. To me, it tasted like a Coke with gummy candy extract, but to my friend, the taste wasn't so pleasant. As with many foods and beverages, it's all a matter on how your body reacts to the substance. If you're ever in the Czech Republic, it's a must try. For 45 crowns (about 22cents), you can't go wrong. Just make sure you order the small (it's not as small as you think it is, but you'll understand why to get the small once you try it).

Enjoy!

Cuisine in Praha

    When traveling to different countries, it's always important to try their traditional cuisine. In Prague, you can eat a lot for very little (the Czech Republic does not operate on the Euro). I have to say, within the last week, I've loved every bit of food I've tried here. Not only are the prices great, but so is the service. Below is a photo of a kebab with three different types of meat (beef, pork, chicken), onions, mango, pineapple, and saturated in a sweet and tangy sauce (I haven't a clue what it is, but I do plan to find out!) as well as their Margherita pizza (cheese, fresh spinach and tomato) if you are a simpler person.

    For my friend and I, both the kebab, pizza, and four cokes (they're really small servings), we spent maybe  $25 = 500 Czech Crowns. Needless to say, we got back to our apartment and fell asleep! We were so full from our dinner that we couldn't move. This goes to show that yes, the portions are smaller, but they can be heavier. 

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     A traditional Czech specialty was one that I was hesitant to taste, wasn't too crazy about it, but I have to try everything at least once. Czech dumplings and Goulash  are a traditional cuisine, and can be found at almost every restaurant in the city. I tried the meal at three different restaurants, and they were are a little better than the one before. They may not look exactly appetizing, but don't let the presentation fool you because one of my roommates did in fact really enjoy it. Have fun!

This was the first try at the Goulash. Not too bad when you drink a cola with it!

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Oh My, It's Cupcake Time!

     More than 41 flavors, custom "adult" cake, and some of the cutest cupcakes in town, Cupcake Central, located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is probably the best cupcake spot on the beach. Why do I love this place so much? Well, when there's Happy Hour on Wednesdays, and there is always something new to see and taste. For $2 a cupcake, over 80 flavors (different every day), cupcake cakes, frosting shots, and more, I can guarantee that this is probably the Crumbs Bakery of Virginia.

Enjoy!

 

 

Visit Cupcake Central! 

A Brownie-Affair

   So, you're in the Macy's Household sector of the store looking for new kitchen appliances (okay, maybe not Macy's, but you get the idea). The household appliances are a staple in any household, big or small. One appliance that I use all the time, as I am an avid baker, is the Martha Stewart Collection Brownie Pan, Slice Solutions, which my grandmother bought me before they discontinued the product. The good thing is that this pan is available by other brands in stores across the United States. But before I move on, let's talk about the product at hand!

  Using either a homemade recipe or a box brownie mix, using the brownie slice pans are very simple and easy. Just blend the ingredients together, spray the ban AND dividers generously, and place in the oven for about 30-35 minutes. After they're fully baked and cooled, you'll have not only delicious brownies, but almost no mess of crumbs on your counter-top!

  To find a brownie slice pan, visit the links below. Enjoy!

Amazon #1

Amazon #2

Bed, Bath, and Beyond