Friday, October 30, 2015

{#FashionFriday} Photo Highlights from the @CountessLuann Countess #Jewelry Collection

Press Preview of Countess Jewelry Collection - Countess LuAnn de Lesseps, New York City



I attended the Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City and thought Fashion Friday would be the perfect day to share the highlights with you!

Countess LuAnn de Lesseps, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City

Yes, 'that' Countess, Countess LuAnn de Lesseps from Real Housewives of New York (#RHONY) television fame,  launched her jewelry collection October 16th via evine.com.

Watch an overview here: (via OK! TV on YouTube)



The collection which is broken up into themes, includes:

Gotham City Wear - a collection inspired by the 'Fashion Mecca' that is my hometown New York City - think Bold Statement Pieces for a night out.

Gotham City Wear Collection, Statement Necklace, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City

Above: Can't you just picture this and a cute little black dress for New Year's Eve this year?

Gotham City Wear Collection, Statement Necklace, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City

Above: The Feathers Trend in jewelry tends to come and go, this one has a got a ton of 'texture' and presence.

Gotham City Wear Collection, Statement Necklace, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City

Above: These are some large simulated pearls! Maybe a bit too 'Pebbles Flinstone' for me! LOL

Gotham City Wear Collection, Statement Necklace, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City


Above: I appreciated how many of the pieces that look similar, actually had subtle variations

Gotham City Wear Collection, Statement Earrings, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City

Above: While I probably wouldn't do such a large simulated pearl on my neck, I do like it here. The larger simulated pearl does work on the earrings for me.

Gotham City Wear Collection, Statement Necklace, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City

Above: Super sophisticated Statement Necklace!

Western Chic - a collection she says works well for both 'Country' and 'City' Living

Western Chic Collection, Statement Necklaces, Statement Earrings, Statement Bracelets, Southwestern Jewelry, Indian Inspired Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Costume Jewelry, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City
Overview of Countess LuAnn de Lessep's Countess Jewelry Collection Western Chic Line - F2NYC

I am a HUGE admirer of Southwest and Indian inspired Jewelry and while I am a statement necklace lover at heart (which drew me to the necklace on the upper right immediately), the piece that really won me over was actually the bracelet, so I got a good close up of it for you to really see the nuances that you might not see in the photo above.

Western Chic Collection, Statement Bracelets, Southwestern Jewelry, Indian Inspired Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Costume Jewelry, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City
Statement Bracelet from the Countess Jewelry Collection - Western Chic Collection
Isn't she lovely? The bold colors, eclectic mix of bracelets and even bold graphic interplay made this one my favorite from the Western Chic Collection - I was so hoping to be able to take this one home! (sadly that wasn't the case)

Western Chic Collection, Statement Bracelets, Southwestern Jewelry, Indian Inspired Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Costume Jewelry, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City, #RHONY
Countess LuAnn models my favorite bracelet from the Western Chic Collection of her Countess Jewelry Collection
Above: I am so glad she modeled this bracelet showing that it works just as easily with a white shirt, blue jeans and western boots as it does with a dress!

Western Chic Collection, Statement Necklaces, Southwestern Jewelry, Indian Inspired Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Costume Jewelry, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City, Goldtone Necklace, Silvertone Necklace, Jewelry Collage
LEFT: Statement Necklace in Silvertone, RIGHT: Statement Necklace in Goldtone
ABOVE: Silver or Gold? Decisions! Decisions! Thanks to the affordable price tag you can actually treat yourself to BOTH! The Countess wanted to create an affordable jewelry line and each piece in the collection is under $100, how great is that?

Western Chic Collection, Statement Necklaces, Southwestern Jewelry, Indian Inspired Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Costume Jewelry, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City
Statement Necklace from the Countess Jewelry Collection - Western Chic Collection
Above: A recent horoscope suggested I buy something purple to wear to an upcoming event, I'm thinking this statement necklace would certainly fit the bill!

Western Chic Collection, Statement Necklaces, Southwestern Jewelry, Indian Inspired Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Costume Jewelry, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City

I wear a lot of Turquoise in the Summer, this would be killer with a White Pant Suit or a White T-shirt and Jeans!

St. Tropez Collection - a collection which is inspired by her travels to St. Tropez

St. Tropez Collection, Statement Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets, Cuff Bracelets, Costume Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Affordable Jewelry, Southwestern Jewelry, Indian Inspired Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Costume Jewelry, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City
Countess Jewelry Collection St. Tropez Line - F2NYC
Above: The St. Tropez Collection was inspired by Countess LuAnn's travels to St. Tropez, I wish I was on the beaches of St. Tropez right about now!

St. Tropez Collection, Statement Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets, Cuff Bracelets, Costume Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Affordable Jewelry, Southwestern Jewelry, Indian Inspired Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Costume Jewelry, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City

Above: I love this statement necklace and it's matching earrings from the St. Tropez collection.

Curvy Girl Tip: Want to love your swimwear summer photos a bit more? Wear bold earrings and a statement necklace like this one to take your swimwear photos, it pulls the eye toward them and helps you camoflauge the areas you don't want the eye to zoom in on. I think this set would look perfect with a black swimsuit and a breezy, flowy open cover up!

St. Tropez Collection, Statement Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets, Cuff Bracelets, Costume Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Affordable Jewelry, Southwestern Jewelry, Indian Inspired Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Costume Jewelry, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City

Hampton's Collection - a collection with a bevy of tortoise

Hampton's Collection, Statement Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets, Cuff Bracelets, Costume Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Affordable Jewelry, Southwestern Jewelry, Indian Inspired Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Costume Jewelry, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City
Countess Jewelry Collection Hamptons Line - F2NYC
Above: With the cooler months ahead I could see this jazzing up a Turtleneck Sweater or Cardigan Set

Hampton's Collection, Statement Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets, Cuff Bracelets, Costume Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Affordable Jewelry, Southwestern Jewelry, Indian Inspired Jewelry, Fantasy Jewelry, Costume Jewelry, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City

ABOVE: For some reason the single strand version gives me a retro sort of 70's vibe that matches the 70's looks making a resurgence in Fashion for Fall this year, bell-bottom jeans, suede or leather platform boots and these pieces from the Countess Jewelry Hampton's Line pair perfectly together!

The Scene:

F2NYC Offices Sign, Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City
The event was held in the New York City Offices of F2NYC

Countess LuAnn de Lessepts and her mother at the Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City
Countess LuAnn de Lesseps and her mother
I have a shot of LuAnn putting this necklace on her mom, I will save that one for the Pinterest Board. Gotta do some stuff on the Social Channels that I don't give you here to keep things interesting!

Countess LuAnn de Lesseps and Ramona Singer at the Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City Real Housewives of New York #RHONY
Center: Ramona Singer, Right: Countess LuAnn de Lesseps
Ramona Singer and TV Personality Carson Kressley at the Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City Real Housewives of New York #RHONY
TV Personalities: Center Left: Ramona Singer, Center Right: Carson Kressley

Water Wall with Rocks at F2NYC Offices for Press Preview of Countess LuAnn de Lesseps Countess Jewelry Collection in New York City Real Housewives of New York #RHONY

ABOVE: I have always been a big fan of Water Walls, I keep saying I should get one so I couldn't resist snapping this photo! I love how you can see through it.

Note: I took way too many photos I will go Watermarking them and you will find these pictures (and a few bonus photos) in my 'Countess Jewelry Collection Press Preview' Board via Pinterest!

MY TAKE:

I love that the collection is as versatile as it is affordable. With accessories you can easily spruce up your favorite basics, and in many cases swapping your accessories (jewelry, handbag, scarves, accesories) is way cheaper then changing your entire wardrobe over each season.

I was pleasantly surprised by how to down-to-earth Countess LuAnn was, I guess as someone who is familiar with the Real Housewives Franchise you come to associate the 'show' with the 'person' and that sometimes isn't always good.

Somehow Countess LuAnn's lovely Mother ended up at our table it was fun to meet her but also witness how sweet LuAnn is with her Mom!

It was also fun to meet Carson Kressley in person too. And while The Countess was certainly a pleasant surprise I will say Ramona was definitely who I expected her to be. (Take that as you will).

CON: There is only one con. During the event I got into a conversation with Countess LuAnn about Twitter and Twitter Parties, I mentioned to her the "Twitter Takeover" I was invited to host for Oprah Winfrey's OWN Television Network where I tweeted from the @OWNers handle directly for a prime time weekend. SHE LOVED THE IDEA!

I was super stoked at the idea of not only presenting this collection to you all with a blog post, but with a tweet chat/twitter party that would have allowed you all a chance to win a piece to call your own.

While I did reach out to her PR team that same evening to follow up, they never got back to me.

I have worked many a 'sales' type job in my day - classified ad sales, staffing agency - I developed a thick skin and certainly am not afraid of the word 'No'. But I hate being ignored, particularly when the client themselves actually WANTED this to happen BEFORE the line launched on evine.

It would have been a super viral way to promote the line and I do hope they see this and opt to follow up on the idea eventually.

Overall I loved the line and found something from each of the four premiere collections in the line that I would totally rock. With the Western Chic and Gotham collections standing stronger for me in terms of my personal style.

Readers Sound Off: WHICH OF THE FOUR PREMIERE LINES IN THE COUNTESS JEWELRY COLLECTION IS YOUR FAVORITE AND WHY? 

Want Bonus Brownie Points, (of course you do!) visit evine.com and pick your favorite piece and tell us which one it is!

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FTC Disclosure: All opinions are 100% MY OWN. This is NOT a Compensated Post, it is an Event Recap. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Monday, October 26, 2015

#ad: @JENGA is a 2015 National Toy Hall of Fame Finalist Help them win the @museumofplay #toyhalloffame top honor!

This is a compensated sponsored post brought to you by JENGA:


Remember those days when playing actually meant *doing* something? You weren't in front of a computer monitor, you weren't developing super long thumbs by texting your friends, but you were playing and testing your dexterity with a bit of wooden goodness called JENGA....

I remember those days fondly and while you all know I'm an avid tech enthusiast I do fondly recall simpler days of play, when the most 'technical' game I knew was 'Operation'! and before the Atari hit my radar, games like JENGA is what game night was all about and I definitely want to see classic toys introduced to newer generations.

I have to admit often times my friends pets would knock down many a game, at that crucial moment when you all knew there weren't too many 'good moves' left - an exuberant pup or attention seeking cat would knock the game down at just THAT moment. Diffusing the tension with gales of laughter that was just as fun as the game itself. Sometimes we would start games over multiple times only to have a pet (or a kid brother or sister for that matter) knock it down and no one find out who that days 'loser' would have been.

Our friends at JENGA need YOUR help. This isn't for prize money, they don't get a 'prize' for winning, they get bragging rights - hey much like the game itself right?!

JENGA is in the running for the 2015 National Toy Hall of Fame, they are a finalist and they want your vote! With 30 years on the shelf, who doesn't have a great JENGA story to share?

When you visit www.toyhalloffame.org you will see a big blue box, under that box are purple banner tabs the one on the right reads 'Choose Your Favorite Toy Hall Finalist!' Press the button that says JENGA then hit Submit, you can take this poll once per day - the winner will be announced on November 5th. It's a super simple quick click right on the homepage of the Toy Hall of Fame website and NO personal info or email address required to vote, how easy is that?

I think one of my fave things about JENGA is how it 'grew' with us and was just as fun when I got older as it was when I was little.

In all fairness, now there is wine with game night now, but I do digress.....


MY TAKE:

There is just something about a classic game night that never grows old for me. I still have them with friends and family. My fondest memories of Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve Family Gatherings was playing games with my cousins while we waited for the big family dinner. And on Christmas Eve while the city was blanketed in white and we were waiting for Santa and counting the seconds until midnight when we were allowed to open ONE present we were always playing board games. If you don't want to see classic board games disappear be sure to give them as gifts too, introduce your child, nieces, nephews, and god-children to the joy of a classic board game night if you are not doing so already.

I hope you will consider giving JENGA your super quick vote!

GET SOCIAL:

Did you vote and want to let them know you did? Of course you do! Here is the tweet I used:

I just voted for @JENGA in the @museumofplay 2015 #toyhalloffame

What was your favorite classic board game as a kid? Did you/Will you vote for JENGA?

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FTC Disclosure: All opinions are 100% MY OWN. This is a Sponsored/Compensated Post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Friday, October 23, 2015

I closed out #HispanicHeritageMonth with an @HBOLatino special screening of #POETOFHAVANA - Check out my #Photo Highlights!

HBO LATINO closes out Hispanic Heritage Month with a Private New York City Preview of the film, The Poet of Havana


HBO LATINO closes out Hispanic Heritage Month with a Private New York City Preview of the film, The Poet of Havana starring Carlos Varela Produced by Ron Chapman with a talk back moderated by Manny Ruiz
LEFT: Ron Chapman, Producer, MIDDLE: Carlos Varela, Musican, RIGHT: Moderator Manny Ruiz
I recently had the opportunity to attend an HBO LATINO private preview of the award-winning music, The Poet of Havana which chronicles the career of the internationally renowned Cuban Singer, Songwriter and Lyricist, Carlos Varela - celebrating his 30th anniversary as an artist. The film was directed and produced by Ron Chapman and was filmed throughout Havana, Cuba with footage that included interviews with Music and Media Personalities including: American Folk-Rock legend, Jackson Browne, Actor and Movie Director, Benicio del Toro (Benicio actually does much of the narration in the film), Salsa Sensation, Luis Enrique and Brazilian Musician, Ivan Lins.

The film won Audience Selection BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM AWARD in the Gasparilla International Film Festival in Tampa, Florida.

The NYC Private Preview included Spoken Word Perfomances and a 'Talk Back' with Carlos Varela and Ron Chapman which was moderated by the Founder of Hispanicize, Manny Ruiz.

Here are my Photo Highlights:

Founder of Hispanicize, Manny Ruiz, event emcee and moderator
ABOVE: Founder of Hispanicize, Manny Ruiz, event emcee and moderator!

Spoken Word Performance by Puerto-Rican Actress, Poet and Activist, Caridad De La Luz, AKA 'La Bruja'
ABOVE: Spoken Word Performance by Puerto-Rican Actress, Poet and Activist, Caridad De La Luz, AKA 'La Bruja' (which translates to 'the witch')

Spoken Word Performance by Odette Casamayor-Cisneros, Cuban-born Scholar and Writer
ABOVE: Odette Casamayor-Cisneros, Cuban-born Scholar and Writer

Hip-Hop Artist and Film-Maker, Frank Antonio López
ABOVE: Hip-Hop Artist and Film-Maker, Frank Antonio López

Hip-Hop Artist and Film-Maker, Frank Antonio López
ABOVE: Hip-Hop Artist and Film-Maker, Frank Antonio López

Carlos Varela Surprises Guests with an Impromptu Acoustic Performance!
ABOVE: Carlos Varela Surprises Guests with an Impromptu Acoustic Performance!

ABOVE: Carlos Varela Surprises Guests with an Impromptu Acoustic Performance! You know I had to get jiggy with angles just to mix things up a bit!


ABOVE: LEFT: Rebecca G. Torres of Lifestyle Remix and RIGHT: George Torres aka Urban Jibaro of Sofrito for your Soul

Guests in attendance got a chance to mingle after the talk back and I was happy to see George as we met very early on in the Digital Influencer space here in NYC and his good energy is always infectious! This was my first time meeting Rebecca! Their signs - orgullo latino - translates to 'Latino Pride'. I hope he doesn't mind me sharing, but when George shared his photos online, he said something super poignant that I felt a strong need to share as the words truly resonated with me - that Hispanic Heritage should be celebrated year round not just September 15th - October 15th.

I love taking photos of people but try to avoid the camera myself, but everyone egged me on so here is mine:


ABOVE: Your very own Ascending Butterfly holding the signs 'Amor/Love'

MY TAKE:

ah Butterflies, today for the first time in a long while, this is the part of my story that I dread. There are very mixed feelings as I write 'My Take' today. 

My previous experience with HBO Latino was for last year's Carlos Santana, Santana Corazon: Live from Mexico Live it to Believe It Special, I shared my sneak peek of it HERE. I couldn't possibly say enough about how much I truly enjoyed this event. (The press line was a bit manic - but they always are, in NYC you have to have thick skin to stand in a press line and have super tall men knocking into you and shoving you to get a shot).

But this event, sadly, I didn't love. It didn't feel as welcoming or warm as the feelings that abounded during the Santana event. These events were night and day and you wouldn't think the same team was behind them.

I got there and was told I was not on the press list, then they couldn't find my name at all. When my name was finally found (mostly by MY ability to read and spot my name in small print upside down) it was not on a press list. I rode the elevator with Ron Chapman who must have had trouble at the door also, I saw them on my way in, and then caught up to them by the time the elevator arrived. Not a good start. When the auditorium got seated I chose a lower down seat that had NO marking on it whatsoever and was rudely told to 'Move so 'real' press could have that seat'. I pointed out that it was NOT marked reserved and waved my DSLR at her, informing I was invited to Blog about the event. That didn't seem to matter so I moved, and told her pointedly, 'the way I am being treated is the coverage you can expect'.

So as promised I am sharing the good, the bad and the downright ugly. That my friends was the straw that broke this camel's back. The moment this happens at an event I shut down. I was truly furious at their rudeness.

I was considering not covering this event at all as a form of protest, so brands can learn they can't call us 'press' when it's convenient and then treat Digital Press like crap during an event - but it didn't seem fair to Carlos Varela or Ron who were nothing but nice to everyone. So I have opted to make my time worth something since they are certainly not paying me and I have absolutely nothing to lose by being honest.

I want to see more films about Latinos on screen and the way to do that is to cover them. The more exposure and the more demand, the better the quality of film-making about the Latino Community will be. But the lack of cohesion between what was being presented and the warm and fuzzies they wanted us to have and the poor way I was treated is quite a dichotomy. And therein my friends lies the rub.

The movie airs Friday, October 23rd on HBO LATINO at 8pm/7 Central and you can follow the action on social using the hashtag #POETOFHAVANA - the movie, EXCELLENT, the subject matter fascinating - watching a decades old embargo come to a close and what is going to happen now is an amazing time in Latino History - the way I was treated at this event however - Not So Much......

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FTC Disclosure: All opinions are 100% MY OWN. This is an event recap. No Compensation has been received. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

{#TheatreThursday} Check out this @SoRmusical interactive 360° #Video for School of Rock - The Musical! #Broadway #ad

This post is sponsored by The 7th Chamber

Alex Brightman and the cast of School of Rock, Photo Credit Timmy Blupe
Alex Brightman and the cast of School of Rock - Photo Credit: Timmy Blupe
School of Rock - The Musical will begin preview performances at Broadway's Winter Garden Theatre in New York City on Monday, November 9, 2015 - with an opening set slated for Sunday, December 6, 2015

And guess what? You're In The Band! Based on the 2003 film of the same title, School of Rock, the Broadway Musical will feature music from the movie in addition to an original score by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Glenn Slater.

The film was hailed by The New York Times as an 'irresistible comic postscript to the rock revolution." and went on to gross more than $130 million WORLDWIDE. Those are some impressive numbers!

ABOUT:

School of Rock - The Musical follows Dewey Finn, a failed wannabe rock star who decides to earn a few extra bucks by posing as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. Completely disinterested in academic work, Dewey decides to create his own curriculum, turning his class into a guitar-shredding, bass-slapping, mind-blowing rock band.

FIRST OF IT'S KIND 360° MUSIC VIDEO OF "YOU'RE IN THE BAND" FROM "SCHOOL OF ROCK - THE MUSICAL"



This video was shot in an actual New York City classroom and was designed by Andrew Lloyd Webber and School of Rock book writer Julian Fellowes utilizing 360° technology that lets you navigate all angles of the classroom - so you can bring a bit of Broadway directly to you in an immersive, engaging and interactive way!

Other Ways to Watch:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - On Your Mobile or Tablet (YouTube): goo.gl/vr/sor360

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Watch on Facebook via Mobile or Tablet:  fb.me/sor360

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Watch on YouTube via your Desktop - the video embedded in this post or you can go directly to YouTube here: goo.gl/vr/sor360

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - To watch via Facebook on your Desktop: fb.me/sor360


Alex Brightman and the cast of School of Rock - Photo Credit: Timmy Blupe
Alex Brightman and the cast of School of Rock - Photo Credit: Timmy Blupe
Get Social:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Instagram your Experience and connect with the show on Instagram HERE
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tag @SoRmusical and use the hashtag #YoureintheBand
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Say hi on Facebook

MY TAKE:

I was super surprised when I first heard this was in development, for some reason I just couldn't imagine it adapted for Broadway so I am looking forward to seeing this show and seeing how they adapted the movie for the Broadway Stage! The 360° video is certainly a unique way to promote it and I am glad I got the chance to see it and share it with you today!

Readers Sound Off: Did you see School of Rock - the movie? Will you see the Broadway Version? What do YOU think of the interactive 360° technology that was used to create this video?

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FTC Disclosure: All opinions are 100% MY OWN. this is a Sponsored/Compensated Post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

{#Photo Highlights} from @WeddingSalon New York City #BridalTradeshow {#WordlessWednesday} Don't miss the November Show!

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City


Bridal Tradeshows are NOT just for Brides ladies! This summer I got a chance to the attend the Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow in New York City, the show comes back to NYC again this November, in a different venue and whether you are #TeamSummer or #TeamWinterWhite Wedding, the Wedding Salon Expo has a little something for everyone!

Here are my Photo Highlights:

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City

Above: As soon as you enter, you see amazing dresses!

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, Nicole Miller Wedding Dress

Above: The lace detail, the stunning exposed back, the pink lighting! This is super 'girly girliness' in all it's bridal glory!

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, Violinist

Above: A violinist! She is the first person you see when you get off the elevator to the event, such a wonderful way to be greeted.

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, Nicole Miller Wedding Dress

Above: OK I had to resist the urge to nip in the top part so the mannequin wouldn't have that 'saggy boob' look but I was afraid to touch anything!

Nicole Miller Wedding Dress at the Wedding, Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City

Above: Nicole Miller Wedding Dresses look good 'coming and going' right? (Maybe it's a trick of the lighting and the way the dress falls, but I see a heart shape and a bit of 'butterflyesque' wings too!)

Nicole Miller Wedding Dress at the Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City
Above: I promise there are other dresses in addition to Nicole Miller, I took pictures in the order I proceeded through each room.

Nicole Miller Wedding Dress at the Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City

Above: You guessed it, another Nicole Miller!

Glamour Closet Designer Wedding Dresses at the Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City

Above: I got to meet the team from Glamour Closet who sell Designer Wedding Gowns up to 75% Off Retail - it's like a sample sale everyday! I got a close up on the price tags on both of the above gowns for you so you could see the savings for yourself! Left: Carolina Herrera Sample Gown from Glamour Closet and Right: I am living for this Lazaro Sample Gown!

Carolina Herrera Sample Gown from Glamour Closet Designer Wedding Dresses at the Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, Sticker, Price Tag

Above: For Brides on a Budget who still want to knock em dead with a gorgeous designer gown, but only pay a fraction of the cost for it, Glamour Closet is definitely for YOU! This is a close up of the price of the dress on the left side of the dual dress photo! This Carolina Herrera Sample Gown is literally a STEAL!

Lazaro Sample Gown from Glamour Closet Designer Wedding Dresses at the Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City

Above: This is the price on the dress on the right. I was particularly fond of this Lazaro Sample Gown, now all I need is a Fiance! ROFLMAO


Above: She's a bit more 'frou frou' than my usual, but a mermaid style is super flattering!

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, Diamond Dust Potraits, Park Slope Press

Above: Needless to say that the Diamond Dust Portraits by Park Slope Press immediately caught my eye (and everyone else too!), I was born in April, and the birthstone for April is 'Diamond' - A Diamond Dust Portrait? FABULOUS (picture me yelling Fabulous in my best Oprah at Christmas Holiday Voice!) I WANT one of these. Heck I want one of me and my mom too, I think this would make a beautiful Mother's Day or 'anytime' gift for that matter, not just weddings!

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, Alessandro from I Know You Can Dance

Above: It's Alessandro's warm, bright smile and sunny disposition that drew me to his exhibitor booth, I Know You Can Dance offers Dance Lessons for the couple and can also craft father/daughter or mother/son dances either in a studio or at your residence!

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, DanielaRodriguezNYC Bridal Hair&Makeup, #DanielaRodriguezNYC

Above: Gotta love those 'instagramable' moments (please don't use this tag now, I'm sure the contest is over!)

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, DanielaRodriguezNYC Bridal Hair&Makeup, #DanielaRodriguezNYC

Above: DanielaRodriguezNYC Bridal Hair&Makeup was on hand to offer makeup touchups, be sure to check out her online portfolio of Beautiful Brides!

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, Guitarist
Above: Mid-way there was a musician switch!

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, The Royal Hideaway Playacar Hotel, Honeymoon Destinations, Destination Wedding Resorts

Above: Honeymoon and Destination Wedding resorts are a very popular choice, and there was a ton of resort and tourism boards to choose from, The Royal Hideaway Playacar Hotel definitely had a pretty set up!

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, Athena Entertainment, Champagne Diva, Strolling Tables

Above: Athena Entertainment definitely turned heads with a living 'Champagne Diva', and this is just some of what they can do for your next bash - wedding or any type of event or party for that matter! Seriously check out their 'Strolling Tables', Greeters, Face and Body Art as well as Specialty Acts, I'm sure you will be blown away!

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, Sandals Resorts, Honeymoon Destinations, Destination Wedding Resorts
Above: I have to confess I have yet to visit Sandals Resorts, looks like I am going to need to get on that and get out there as soon as possible, I'm overdue for some fun in the sun since I worked through the summer!

Carlo's Bakery, Cakes and Sweets, Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City
Above: I am sure most of you are familiar with Carlo's Bakery home of the Cake Boss, Buddy Velastro.  They cater, and they put together a really delicious assortment of just some of what they can do. Most people went back several times to enjoy the delectable array of cakes and sweets, myself included!

La Maison Du Chocolat, Chocolate, Macaroons, Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City
Above: Not to be outdone was La Maison Du Chocolat with a delicious spread of chocolate and macaroons!

Ben & Jerry, #benjerryweddings, Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City
Above: Ben & Jerry was in attendance and that ice cream line was LONG, the struggle is REAL! LOL Some of the New Jersey Ben & Jerry Franchisers were there to promote #benjerryweddings

Fratelli Saraceni, BLUMOND, Splendia - Matilde, Sparkling Wines, Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City
Above: And for that 'something blue' the folks at Fratelli Saraceni have got you covered with 'BLUMOND' - the Italian Blue Sparkling Wine made from Prosecco grapes with an added flavor of fresh, sweet Peach. We also got to sample Splendia - Matilde - an Italian Sweet Sparkling Wine made from Merlot Grapes with an added hint of strawberry. Perfect companion to a Spa Day as well as your big day in my opinion.

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, Joyce Kutty Designs
Above: Joyce Kutty Designs - Her backstory is truly an awesome one - In 2011 Joyce realized her passion and artistic vision could also touch lives. During her studies at Rhode Island College she became aware of neutropenia, and abnormally low count of white blood cells - common among oncology patients going through chemotherapy treatment. These patients cannot have real flowers because of the bacteria in the flowers that are detrimental to a patients health, particularly during chemo. She explored the traditional Japanese art-form of origami (the art of folding) and with her background in Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design she began creating origami floral arrangements. They reference real flowers as inspiration and any patient can have these in their room. When I read her backstory it truly touched me, during my Medical Crisis in 2011 I could not have flowers in my room. I remember visiting the Nurse's Station to see them enjoying my flowers (often times not even telling me they were there!) I wish I had heard about Joyce Kutty Designs sooner! All patients should experience the joy of a beautiful bouquet, and now they can! (passing you a tissue, I know you want one - isn't this the most touching backstory for a brand you have read in awhile?) With every order over $100, Joyce Kutty Designs donates a Bouquet to a patient at Rhode Island Hospital.

Wedding Salon Bridal Tradeshow/Expo, New York City, Maps by A.JAFFE, Diamonds, Jewelry
Above: Last but certainly NOT least is Maps by A.JAFFE - They are definitely a 'save the best for last' moment in this recap, These Jewelry Maps allow you to honor the places you hold dear, each custom made piece can be engraved with any location in the world and a Diamond marks the spot of a favorite memory. They resonated with me on so many levels I don't know where to start. At heart I am and always will be a Gypsy, a Nomad, a Wanderer. Stillness feels like death to me. I love to travel and roam, I love the idea of being able to capture the map of a favorite place and wear it as a necklace near my heart forever. I was born in April, us April babies are lucky enough to call Diamonds our 'birthrights' - ahem I mean 'birthstone'. So the fact that instead of an 'X' on the map you can commemorate a special place with a Diamond as the marker is just so, well...ME!!!!

MY TAKE

Butterflies, I presented a mere fraction of what was there, it was a full house and many times I couldn't get solid exhibitor booth shots, there were quite a few other tourism boards there, including one that holds a special place in my heart, Puerto Rico, but I couldn't get a booth shot of them.

While I work on creating my own Pinterest Board for the event, I will point you to Wedding Salon's Pinterest Board for this event, which can be found HERE (their board includes photos of the ginormous Gift Bag that you get on the way out!) and for a list of upcoming Bridal Shows you can attend, click HERE.

BLOGGERS: Leave us a comment with a link to your Wordless Wednesday posts so we can check out your photography too! (just no giveaway linkies here please, Wordless Wednesday Only)

Which brand featured above caught your eye? Are you single and ready to mingle, engaged or married?

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FTC Disclosure: All opinions are 100% MY OWN. this post is NOT compensated. I received Press Passes to the Wedding Salon Bridal Expo/Tradeshow for Editorial Consideration. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.