HALSTON Launches Digital Flagship Boutique

FIRST E-COMMERCE STORE FOR ICONIC AMERICAN BRAND

HALSTON announces the launch of its premiere digital flagship store at www.HALSTON.com, which went live Oct 11th in over 80 countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union and the Asia-Pacific nations, among others. The e-commerce site will feature HALSTON HERITAGE ready-to-wear, dresses, evening gowns and handbags, and will include a special feature dedicated to founder Roy Halston Frowick and the heritage of the iconic brand he created.

Halston Heritage E-commerce site. (PRNewsFoto/HALSTON)

Combining state-of-the-art technology with HALSTON HERITAGE’s modern and sophisticated design aesthetic that reflects iconic codes from the brand’s legacy – simplicity and timeless elegance – the site blends a luxury brand experience with approachable, easy-to-shop functionality. Ben Malka, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of HALSTON said, “The launch of HALSTON’s first e-commerce store is an important milestone for one of America’s most iconic fashion brands. The site will serve as our global flagship and will give us the opportunity to present the brand the way we envision it, while reaching new audiences in new markets across the world.”

The launch of the online store is a partnership between HALSTON and Branded Online, an innovative e-commerce provider who developed the proprietary platform, and will manage all back-office functions including fulfillment, distribution and client services. The day-to-day business including merchandising, marketing, brand creative and brand communication will be run by HALSTON. The site will serve as a complement to the company’s on-going digital strategy, which is integral to the growth strategy of the company and will strengthen direct communication and interaction with clients and fans through the digital space and social media platforms.

This e-commerce launch follows the rollout of the first HALSTON HERITAGE retail stores earlier this year. Under the vision of new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ben Malka, an industry veteran, today HALSTON HERITAGE is an approachable luxury lifestyle brand – mixing legacy codes with a modern edge to create an effortless women’s collection of ready-to-wear, dresses, handbags, footwear and small leather goods. The new HALSTON HERITAGE has been worn by modern style icons including Gisele Bundchen and Halle Berry among many others, and is carried by some of the world’s premier retailers including Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, Net-A-Porter and Harvey Nichols, and as of Spring 2013 – the first HALSTON HERITAGE stores. The brand’s robust retail expansion now includes boutiques in New York on Madison Avenue and in Soho, as well as others in Beverly Hills, Newport Beach, Troy Michigan, Las Vegas and Kuwait. By the end of 2013, there will be more than 20 HALSTON HERITAGE boutiques worldwide.

Roy Halston Frowick was the creator of luxury American fashion, whose groundbreaking designs still influence and inspire us today. Founded in the 1960’s, the HALSTON label took the fashion industry by storm. Originally known for his innovation in millinery, Halston used his signature materials of jersey, cashmere and suede to reinvent the jumpsuit, the shirtdress, and the classic caftan, permanently leaving his mark on fashion. The 1970’s and the era of Studio 54 became synonymous with Halston’s designs.

Soon after, he was named “the premier fashion designer in America” by Newsweek. His strong connection to pop culture was evident through his friends and clients, which included Andy Warhol, Bianca Jagger, Elizabeth Taylor and Anjelica Huston. Halston went on to create one of the best-selling fragrances of all time in his signature tear-drop shaped perfume bottle designed by Elsa Peretti., as well as creating strong codes that are quintessential to the brand even to this day, For more information please visit www.HALSTON.com.

— Phillip D. Johnson

UGG® Australia Launches ‘UGG By You’: Online Customization Tool to Create Personalized Footwear

On October 9^th, UGG Australia will launch UGG by You, an online customization tool putting customers in control of the design process and transforming a visit to UGGAustralia.com from a shopping trip to a creative experience. The customization tool allows consumers to mix and match an array of color schemes on two classic styles, the UGG Classic Short sheepskin boot and the Fluff Flip Flop, through a user-friendly design tool. There are over 11,000 color, outsole and trim combinations possible through the footwear personalization tool.

UGG by You Classic Short boot. (Courtesey of UGG Australia). (PRNewsFoto/Deckers Outdoor Corporation)

“UGG lovers have a unique, emotional connection with our brand, and with each pair they buy,” said UGG Australia president Constance X. Rishwain. “With the holidays nearing, we were really committed to rolling out a way to allow our best customers to take to a new level their engagement with us, and customizing your UGG boots or flip flops is a great holiday gift, too.”

UGG by You will live exclusively on UGGAustralia.com and is available domestically in the United States at this stage. UGG by You gift cards will be sold in concept stores nation-wide, and the personalized UGG footwear will ship approximately 4-6 weeks from the order date.

UGG by You allows customers to customize UGG Classic Short sheepskin boots by boot color, binding, heel counter and outsole, with a possible 6,000 combinations made from those elements. Prices are $220 (or $225 for a metallic heel counter). In addition, customers will have the ability to customize the wildly popular Fluff Flip Flop with over 5,000 color combinations. Price is $110.

UGG^® Australia has built a reputation on luxury and comfort by using only the finest materials in the world, employing the highest standards of craftsmanship and delivering new and innovative styles well beyond the original sheepskin boots and slippers. UGG Australia is recognized as a premium lifestyle brand that houses footwear, apparel, outerwear, accessories and handbags and has grown from $10 million to over $1 billion in sales. In 2011, the brand introduced UGG for Men with quarterback Tom Brady now offers the ultimate brand experience to all with over 70 stores worldwide including New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami, London, Tokyo, Shanghai, Beijing and Moscow. Every genuine UGG product is linked together by the unforgettable sheepskin experience, and a feeling that is truly like nothing else.

Deckers Outdoor Corporation (NASDAQ: DECK) strives to be a premiere lifestyle marketer that builds niche brands into global market leaders by designing and marketing innovative, functional and fashion-oriented footwear developed for both high performance outdoor activities and everyday casual lifestyle use. UGG® Australia, Teva®, Sanuk®, TSUBO®, Ahnu®, MOZO® and HOKA ONE ONE® are registered trademarks of Deckers Outdoor Corporation. For more information, visit www.deckers.com .

— Phillip D. Johnson

Do You Speak Shoe Lover?

Leading Shoe Retailer DSW Debuts Compilation Book with Launch Party in the Shoe Obsessed City of Angels, October 10, 2013

No matter how bad the day is going, none of it seems to matter with the perfect pair of shoes. Do You Speak Shoe Lover? Style and Stories from Inside DSW, a new softcover gift book from leading shoe retailer DSW, delves into the national obsession with shoes.

To celebrate the October 8th national release of the book, DSW will host a red carpet and launch cocktail party (October 10) for celebs (Giuliana Rancic, Mimi Rogers, Marcia Cross, Jennifer Grey, Calista Flockhart), media, and fashion influencers who will be attending the Los Angeles event at The Annenberg Community Beach House, Santa Monica to celebrate the book, and naturally, SHOES. Party highlights will include a Fabulous shoe gifting lounge, food by Thyme Cafe catering, music by dj Cheila spinning hot tracks, and speical “Shoe Lover” cocktails.

With cover shoe by fashion footwear mogul and visionary Steve Madden, this chic book filled with photos also features a compilation of compelling stories and confessions of Shoe Lovers including actress Jennifer Grey. Readers will garner fashion advice from DSW style gurus and get behind-the-scenes movie and TV shoe nostalgia from their favorite characters in Sex in the City, Forrest Gump and The Wizard of Oz.

Baltimore Ravens Hosts 14th Annual Goodwill Gridiron Halloween Party

Join the Baltimore Ravens and Goodwill as they team up for food, fun and a good cause

Join the Super Bowl Champion Baltimore Ravens and Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, Inc. at the 14th Annual Goodwill Gridiron Halloween party on Monday, October 28th at Dave & Buster’s in Arundel Mills Mall. This year’s Ravens hosts include defensive tackle Arthur Jones, Tackle Michael Oher and Tight Ends Dennis Pitta and Ed Dickson and guests will include many from the area business, philanthrophic and cultural  communities. All proceeds from the event benefit Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, Inc.

The proceeds from the event will go to benefit Goodwill’s training and employment programs serving individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment. Goodwill’s largest fundraiser for the last thirteen years, the Gridiron Halloween Party supports Goodwill’s mission of preparing people to secure and retain employment and build successful independent lives.

“We are very excited for this year’s Goodwill Gridiron Halloween party,” said Lisa Rusyniak, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, Inc. “We have some fantastic items in our silent auction this year and are looking forward to a great party with the Ravens, their fans and our supporters.”

The party will include video games, pool, bowling, dancing, a costume contest, catered food, an open bar and a silent auction. Items to be auctioned include an African Safari, Disney Paris, a trip to the ESPYs, gift certificates from many local restaurants and hotels, autographed memorabilia from the Ravens and The Rolling Stones, Sylvester Stallone, and much more.

For 94 years, Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, Inc. (www.goodwillches.org) has helped others help themselves. Revenue generated from the sale of donated goods funds job training, job placement and other human services for people who are unemployed or face other challenges to employment, including people with significant disabilities. Annually, Goodwill provides services to more than 33,000 people in need of assistance because of physical, mental or other social barriers, and places approximately 2,400 in jobs, giving them “Not a charity, but a chance.”

Tickets are $150 for individuals and $250 per couple. Costumes are optional. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.goodwillgridiron.com.

– Phillip D. Johnson

Neiman Marcus Presents The 87th Edition Of Its Legendary Christmas Book

THE 2013 NEIMAN MARCUS CHRISTMAS BOOK FEATURES A SELECTION OF FANTASY GIFTS AND EXPERIENCES, INCLUDING A LIMITED-EDITION ASTON MARTIN, INDIAN LARRY’S “WILD CHILD” MOTORCYCLE, AND A FOREVERMARK DIAMOND EXPERIENCE.

The 2013 Neiman Marcus Christmas Book was unveiled yesterday by luxury retailer Neiman Marcus in Dallas. The 87^th edition of this legendary book continues Neiman Marcus’s unmatched tradition of offering its customers a selection of spectacular and unique holiday gifts sure to make even their wildest dreams come true.

Neiman Marcus represents the finest and most unique merchandise the world has to offer. It evokes images of preeminent designers and elegant fashion, luxurious furnishings and incomparable gifts. Since its inception in 1907, Neiman Marcus has operated by a fundamental and abiding principle: to exceed the customer’s expectations. Today, the tradition behind Neiman Marcus supports one of the nation’s leading specialty retail organizations with more than five million gross square feet of store operations in the United States, including 41 Neiman Marcus stores, two Bergdorf Goodman stores and 36 Last Call outlet centers. The company’s Neiman Marcus Online division also operates web sites that offer customers the leading assortment of luxury merchandise for women, men and home. In addition, the company has a thriving direct marketing and catalog business.

The arrival of the annual Christmas Book is considered by many to mark the official start of the holiday shopping season. This year’s edition of the Christmas Book carries on the Neiman Marcus tradition of presenting a refined selection of items across a broad range of categories for everyone on your holiday shopping list. With a new collection of fantasy gifts certain to satisfy even the most indulgent appetite, the Christmas Book features exceptional and distinctive gifts and experiences, including a Bespoke Global Falconry Companion, Ciclotte Exercise Bicycle, and a Glass House Experience. This year’s featured car is a Neiman Marcus 2014 Aston Martin Vanquish Volante. The “His & Hers” Fantasy Gift tradition continues this year with the Ultimate Outdoor Entertainment System, a 201” outdoor telescoping screen with surround sound speakers.

First published in 1926 as a 16-page booklet, the Neiman Marcus Christmas Book was initially intended as a Christmas card to the store’s best customers. Building on tradition through the years, the book has maintained its personal touch while evolving into a legendary source for alluring and mystical gifts.

“The annual holiday tradition continues this year with a new selection of fantasy gifts that cater to people’s wildest dreams and promise to provide truly unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences,” said John E. Koryl, President of Neiman Marcus Direct. “This year’s gifts live up to the time honored tradition of presenting our customers with the rare and unusual, while also incorporating our long legacy of always giving back.”

Neiman Marcus recently announced that it would begin offering free standard shipping and returns for all domestic purchases made online.

Among the selection of fantasy gifts in the 2013 Neiman Marcus Christmas Book are some exceptional items, including:

Ultimate Outdoor Entertainment System

“His & Hers” 2013 ULTIMATE OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM
A true audio- and video-phile’s dream, you click a button and your television emerges from its discreet, underground cache, telescoping upward and unfolding to reveal its mega 201″ C SEED screen. The accompanying speakers, developed by CAT-California Audio Technology, Inc., use the most advanced marine-grade components specifically developed for super yachts. The system includes technologically advanced speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers that project unparalleled sound, a DirecTV® satellite and DVD management system, and a built-in movie package featuring up to 300 movies and concerts (The American Film Institute’s 100 Most Thrilling American Films and 100 Greatest Love Stories, the remaining 100 are your choice). That never-ending argument over who controls the remote is no longer an issue. Two Apple® mini iPadsTM serve as the remotes; one for him and one for her. With every Ultimate Outdoor Entertainment System purchase, Neiman Marcus will donate $10,000 to The Heart of Neiman Marcus Foundation. ($1,500,000; pages 48-49)

Flamingo Las Vegas Renames Showroom After Headliners Donny & Marie in Celebration of Their Contract Extension Through 2014

Flamingo Las Vegas (www.flamingolasvegas.com) has renamed its iconic showroom the “Donny & Marie Showroom” after America’s most beloved brother-sister duo, who, after recently celebrating their five year anniversary at the property, signed an extension to perform through 2014.

Donny and Marie Osmond unveil the signage for the newly-renamed Donny & Marie Showroom at Flamingo Las Vegas

“It’s only fitting that we rename our showroom for Donny & Marie, whose show is not only sold out night after night, but has been named the ‘Best Show in Las Vegas,'” said Eileen Moore, regional president of Flamingo Las Vegas. “Donny & Marie have become one of the staple entertainers on the Strip and they’ve truly become part of our family. We’re proud to have them call the Flamingo ‘home’ and be part of our incredible history.”

Flamingo Las Vegas headliners Donny and Marie hold up the proclamation from the Mayor of Las Vegas naming October 2, 2013 ”Donny & Marie Showroom Day”

Located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, the Flamingo Las Vegas is a true desert oasis. The center Strip resort features more than 3,500 guest rooms including the newly renovated FAB rooms and the award-winning Flamingo GO Rooms and Suites. The historic hotel-casino is home to a sprawling 15-acre pool and wildlife habitat complete with waterfalls, mature island vegetation and tropical wildlife, three distinctive pools and several outdoor wedding gardens. The resort hotel casino offers a wide variety of dining options with eateries such as Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Center Cut Steakhouse and Mexican hot spot Carlos’n Charlie’s, and hosts an all-star line-up of entertainers. In addition to the brother-sister duo Donny & Marie dazzle, comedians George Wallace and Vinnie Favorito keep audiences laughing non-stop, Legends in Concert features live re-creations of superstars of yesterday and today and the late night adult revue X Burlesque showcases the sexiest ladies on the Strip.

JustFab Launches Exclusive Accessories Collection with Latin Superstar Paulina Rubio

Rubio Debuts Her First Shoe and Handbag Collection, Exclusively for JustFab’s Members

JustFab (www.JustFab.com), the worldwide leading fashion subscription e-commerce site and lifestyle fashion brand, today announced its brand partnership with Latin superstar Paulina Rubio. The collection consists of shoes and handbags available exclusively on www.JustFab.com beginning this week.

Paulina Rubio for JustFab

Inspired by Rubio’s personal style, the collection includes an array of key trends fitting a range of style personalities, such as sleek, pointy-toed pumps accented with an ankle strap for fashionistas, and tasseled, casual booties for trendsetters. Handbags range from glamorous satchels with luxe metal details, to neutral totes for everyday wear, to statement-making clutches.

New York Fashion Week Recap: Restoring One’s Karma at The Colgate Optic White Beauty Bar

Written by Phillip D. Johnson

images provided by Pivot PR

The Colgate Optic White Beauty Bar at Salon Ziba on September 9, 2013 in New York City.

This past New York Fashion Week was, for God knows what reasons, more stressful any other in recent history. For the record, I love New York Fashion Week and attending the shows. I feel energized by the vibes of creativity waiting to be explored. Every season at the Tents at Lincoln Center and at other venues around Manhattan is like going to a high school or college reunion, where you are joyous in reconnecting with the people you like (and missed) and doing your level best to circumvent–by all means possible— the toxic fiends and the frenemies you (mostly) dislike and must avoid at all cost. Overall, this season, however, there was a decidedly underlying cloud of, if not rampant negativity, then snarkiness and shadiness about the whole proceeding that took most of the enjoyment out of the week for many people, including myself. What was a pleasure to look forward to–the joy of a potential “fashion moment” during a show, the clothes, gossiping with your friends while waiting for the shows to start– became a chore I was trying to avoid. Seriously, folks, most of the inhabitants of this seasonal world we call New York Fashion Week are in dire need of a psyche cleansing, in addition to a cleansing of the aura by a host of feng shui masters.

The Colgate Optic White Beauty Bar at Salon Ziba on September 9, 2013 in New York City.

The Colgate Optic White Beauty Bar at Salon Ziba on September 9, 2013 in New York City.

The Colgate Optic White Beauty Bar at Salon Ziba on September 9, 2013 in New York City

The Colgate Optic White Beauty Bar at Salon Ziba on September 9, 2013 in New York City.

But I found a remedy for the fashion week blues, if only for a couple hours.

Dos Equis® Unmasks Its More Interesting Side with Launch of Ultimate Masquerade

DOS EQUIS BRINGS A NEW TWIST TO THE SEASON BY HELPING FANS EMBRACE THEIR MORE INTERESTING SIDE WITH A SERIES OF MASQUERADE-THEMED CELEBRATIONS AND CONTESTS

This fall, Dos Equis® is donning its own mask and helping fans 21 and older embrace their alter egos with the launch of the Ultimate Masquerade. Starting today, Dos Equis will kick off the fall with a series of incredible events, a nationwide contest and masquerade-themed elements – all designed to help people unmask their more interesting side in a way only Dos Equis can.

Dos Equis will showcase its own mask with two brand new bottle label designs for its Lager and Ambar brews. Each pack

Dos Equis(R) Unmasks More Interesting Side with Launch of Ultimate Masquerade. (PRNewsFoto/Dos Equis)

and bottle will feature a graphic designed by artist Hydro 74, and are only available while supplies last.

Dos Equis will also give fans 21 and older a chance to celebrate with the Ultimate Masquerade contest, which will send four grand prize winners on an all-expense paid trip for two to Miami to meet and greet with the Most Interesting Man in the World, and take part in the campaign’s culminating celebration on South Beach. Fans 21 and older can enter by visiting www.DosEquis.com/Masquerade, where they can enter special codes found via the new limited edition bottles and packs.

As part of the Ultimate Masquerade, the Most Interesting Man in the World will also be featured in a campaign-themed commercial, as well as four additional videos slated to run digitally through November. The 15 second spots feature the icon offering his take on a variety of seasonal happenings, such as Masquerade Parties: “If the only thing that comes off during the unmasking hour is the mask, you’ve done something wrong.”

“Discovery and adventure are crucial parts of everything we do, and we’re excited to help fans don their own mask with the Ultimate Masquerade,” said Gwendolyn Boyce, Brand Director for Dos Equis. “As the celebrations heat up, we’re excited to give people another chance to add a little interesting to their lives, courtesy of Dos Equis.”

Fans are encouraged to post photos and updates on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter of their own Masquerade parties and bottles using hashtag #DosEquis. For the most up to date information on the Ultimate Masquerade or Dos Equis overall, visit www.DosEquis.com/Masquerade or www.Facebook.com/DosEquis.

— Phillip D. Johnson

Travel America: Fall in Love with Cambria, California this Autumn

Burton drive, Cambria, California

Cambria, California is the perfect place for those who think a little differently, act a little differently, and are looking for something different from their vacation; like collecting memories, moments, and the occasional seashell, or maybe discovering their inner foodie.

This fall, Cambria is the perfect place to enjoy a refined get-away on the cozy California coast. With one-of-a-kind ways to spend a few days away, Cambria welcomes travelers to experience a vacation for the mind, heart, body and soul.

Two young male elephant seals having a fight on Moonstone Beach at Cambria, California

Cambria’s artistic community dawns some of the most stunning work in California. It’s also popularly known for the annual Scarecrow Festival, Oct. 1-31. Thirty scarecrows kicked off the first Festival in 2009, but what the creators didn’t know then, was that they were initiating one of the most artful and unique scarecrow festivals in the U.S. Visitors are often delighted and amazed at the diversity in the display of over 350 scarecrows – many of which are made by businesses and artists who compete to be the most creative. For the entire month of October, the most artistic and lively scarecrows will line the streets of Cambria’s East & West Villages and Moonstone Beach.

Scarecrow Festival – Cambria, CA – Oct 11, 2013

Scarecrow Festival – Cambria, CA – Oct 11, 2013

Put a Play on Pattern for Fall with Lands’ End: Polka Dots Pop-up Everywhere This Season

FALL/WINTER 2013 OUTERWEAR AND MEN’S COLLECTIONS READY FOR THE SEASON

Lands’ End Fall/Winter 2013 Outerwear And Men’s Collections

As fall begins and closets transition, it is time to layer up, cover up and accessorize; but that doesn’t mean saying goodbye to all of the whimsical fun of summer fashion.  Lands’ End (http://www.landsend.com) has curated a collection full of colorful patterns and playful polka dots in a range of pieces for any style preference or occasion.

Lands’ End Dot Cardigan. (PRNewsFoto/Lands’ End)

“When designing for Lands’ End, we always like to go back to our classic roots; polka dots are definitely tried and true,” noted Sara Dennis, Lands’ End SVP of Design. “Prints are a trend we are seeing at the macro level but we wanted to offer simple, classic patterns that would be easy for our customers to incorporate into their everyday style.”

Lands’ End Fall/Winter 2013 Men’s Collection

Lands’ End Fall/Winter 2013 Men’s Collection

Lands’ End Fall/Winter 2013 Men’s Collection

Whether made with premium Supima® cotton or a lightweight cotton blend, the Lands’ End fall collection offers an array of items in polka-dot prints that are soft and comfortable to wear. The retailer is also offering the timeless print in many updated, bright colors to keep it fresh and new for the season. Select pieces may be monogrammed with an initial or name, making them a perfect gift or just a personalized print for fall wardrobes.

Lands’ End Fall/Winter 2013 Outerwear Collection

Art Basel Miami Beach Kabinett 2013: 25 Curated Group And Solo Exhibitions Spotlighted At 2013 Art Basel Miami Beach

A diverse range of curatorial concepts drive the Kabinett sector at the 2013 Art  Basel show in Miami Beach. Chosen by the show’s Selection Committee, each of the  25 galleries will present tightly focused exhibitions within a designated section of their  booths, including group and solo shows by historical figures and emerging artists.

A celebrated sector of the Miami Beach show since 2005, Kabinett gives gallerists a strong platform to display the curatorial aspect of their work. Bridging the gap between performance and the exhibition space, Kavi Gupta Gallery features Theaster Gates’s  ‘Migration Rickshaw for German Living’, a presentation of one of the 12 ballads for the  Huguenot House, which the artist created for Documenta 13 in Kassel, Germany.

Kavi Gupta Gallery, Theaster Gates, Migration Rickshaw for German Living, Courtesy of Kavi Gupta CHICAGO I BERLIN

Luciana Brito Galeria, Marina Abramovic, Places of Power, Waterfall, 2013, Courtesy the artist and the gallery

Henrique Faria Fine Art’s exhibition ‘Body: Air, Water and Earth’ documents Yeni and  Nan’s most emblematic photographs, video art and the groundbreaking action-based art  from the 70s and 80s. Luciana Brito Galeria exhibits the results of Marina Abramović’s  extensive research on the Brazilian countryside, with a series of works never seen before  – the groundwork for a project planned for Brazil in 2015.

Las Vegas Celebrates 10 Years of Iconic “What Happens Here, Stays Here” Advertising Campaign with New Television Commercials

From Infamous Super Bowl Snub to Global Movie Franchise, a Look Back at How the Campaign Shaped the Destination and Pop Culture

Las @Vegas celebrates 10 years of “What happens here, stays here” with revamped campaign http://tinyurl.com/kx8feq5

Images provided by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority and photographed by Eric Marseglia

“What happens here, stays here” (Photo Credit: Eric Marseglia)

Las Vegas is a world-class vacation destination built on the principle of adult freedom, and no other tagline encapsulates this mentality better than the destination’s iconic “What happens here, stays here” advertising campaign. This year marks the 10th anniversary of this award-winning campaign, and this Monday Las Vegas unveiled a reimagined take on the pop culture-entrenched slogan with a variation of the theme titled “Vegas Enablers.”

The new campaign launched with “History of Friendship,” a story of two boys, one a “Vegas enabler” and one the enabled, who experience hysterical situations throughout their friendship, culminating in Las Vegas. The concept of the campaign is a variation of the original “What happens here” theme and will feature three TV commercials airing through May 2014.

“What happens here, stays here” (Photo Credit: Eric Marseglia)

“What happens here, stays here” (Photo Credit: Eric Marseglia)

“The ‘What happens here, stays here’ campaign strikes an emotional chord with consumers who relate with the notion of adult freedom,” said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). “The campaign has evolved from giving visitors permission to live their fantasies, to a celebration of those who facilitate these experiences – the ‘Vegas Enabler.’ Everyone should have a ‘Vegas Enabler’ in their life, that person who encourages you to let your hair down, and the new campaign applauds these people.”

During the late 1990s, the LVCVA and its agency of record R&R Partners discovered that Las Vegas consumers related to the destination through the human desire for “adult freedom.” This allowed the LVCVA and R&R Partners to position the destination as an international brand and not just a travel brand, one of the first destinations ever to do so.

“What happens here, stays here” (Photo Credit: Eric Marseglia)

The first TV spots were shot in November 2002 by famed Super Bowl ad director Bryan Buckley. The campaign was set to launch with the sultry “Mistress in Disguise” spot during the 2003 Super Bowl when it was famously rejected by the National Football League (NFL). “Mistress in Disguise” suddenly became “the ad that the NFL doesn’t want you to see,” sparking media frenzy and garnering more than $6.7 million in publicity for Las Vegas.

FOUR SEASONS HOTELS & RESORTS Brings Extraordinary Experiences to Life with Special Offers at Hotels and Resorts around the World

VALUE-ADD PACKAGES HELP TURN DREAMS TO REALITY THIS SPRING.

WHERE WILL IMAGINATION TAKE YOU THIS YEAR? 

FOUR SEASONS HOTELS AND RESORTS is dedicated to perfecting the travel experience through continual innovation and the highest standards of hospitality. From elegant surroundings of the finest quality, to caring, highly personalized 24-hour service, FOUR SEASONS embodies a true home away from home for those who know and appreciate the best. The deeply instilled FOUR SEASONS culture is personified in its employees – people who share a single focus and are inspired to offer great service. Founded in 1960, Four Seasons has followed a targeted course of expansion, opening hotels and residences in major city centers and desirable resort destinations around the world.

Now imagine zipping through Paris in the back of a plush Rolls Royce; riding elephants along the MEKONG RIVER; arriving by helicopter and strapping on custom-made skis atop pristine snow; swimming with manta rays and blacktip reef sharks; cruising to deserted islands on a yacht; or tucking into fresh caught lobster at the ultimate Caribbean beach barbecue. This now all very possible.

GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF LOS ANGELES, IT GETS BETTER PROJECT AND AT&T PARTNER ON ANTI-BULLYING MUSICAL PROJECT

ONE-NIGHT-ONLY LA PERFORMANCE, CO-PRESENTED BY LEANN RIMES AND THE BEN PATRICK JOHNSON FOUNDATION WITH RIMES AND GMCLA TO PERFORM

The GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF LOS ANGELES (GMCLA) kicks off its nationwide production, THE ITGETSBETTER TOUR presented by AT&T inspired by the IT GETS BETTER PROJECT™ on Friday, February 1^st at THE WILSHIRE EBELL THEATRE at 8pm, with a solo performance by LEANN RIMES, along with GMCLA to perform two songs and celebrity attendance; tickets range from $50 – 150; for more information: www.itgetsbettertour.org

For over 33 years, GMCLA has built an international reputation for musical excellence while remaining deeply rooted in service to the community. In partnership with the It Gets Better Project, GMCLA’s original production ITGETSBETTER TOUR began a U.S. tour this past fall, giving hope and support to LGBT youth and furthering their mission to change hearts and minds through the power of music.

LeAnn Rimes to perform at It Gets Better Tour for one time only performance, February 1st at Ebell Theatre. (PRNewsFoto/Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles)

GBK’S LUXURY GIVING & STYLING SUITE ROCKS NEW YORK FASHION WEEK

Images by Phillip D. Johnso/Others provided by GBK

In honor of NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, GBK hosted a LUXURY GIFT AND STYLING LOUNGE on September 6th and 7th (2012) at the EMPIRE HOTEL steps away from the Fashion Week festivities at LINCOLN CENTER. Celebrity and VIP guests made time between shows to visit the GBK Lounge. Some of this year’s guests include: Sherri Shepherd (“The View”) Angela Simmons (“Pastry” Shoes / “Run’s House”), Katrina Bowden (“30 Rock”), Countess LuAnn de Lesseps (“The Real Housewives New York”), Mark Cuban and the cast of (“Shark Tank”), Gordana Gelhausen, Mondo Guerra, Seth Aaron, Henderson, Valerie Magen all from (“Project Runway”), Paul Sparks, HBO’s (“Boardwalk Empire”) Jennifer Ashton, ABC’s (“The Revolution”) Tamara Tunie, NBC’s( “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit”) Olivia Culpo– Miss USA, Leila Lopes, Miss Universe, Jana Kramer CW’s (“One Tree Hill”), Nasim Pedrad (“Saturday Night Live”) and Fashion Designer Walter Baker who snuck over to the lounge for a little indulgence after his show.

GBK Fashion Week Lounge – Atmosphere Shot

GBK Fashion Week Lounge – Baan Unruk

Yankee Candle Combines Imagination and Fragrance to Create New My Favorite Things Collection™

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND, LINE OFFERS FRAGRANCES INSPIRED BY THE RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN CLASSIC SONG “MY FAVORITE THINGS” FROM THE BELOVED MUSICAL, “THE SOUND OF MUSIC”

THE YANKEE CANDLE COMPANY, INC., the world’s largest manufacturer of premium scented candles, announced the launch of its latest LIMITED EDITION COLLECTION – MY FAVORITE THINGS™. This whimsical collection, inspired by the classic song “My Favorite Things” by Rodgers & Hammerstein from the beloved musical THE SOUND OF MUSIC, features three new fragrances – BROWN PAPER PACKAGES™, WHISKERS ON KITTENS™ and SCHNITZEL WITH NOODLES™. Returning from 2011 are BRIGHT COPPER KETTLES™, CRISP APPLE STRUDEL™, and WARM WOOLEN MITTENS™.

 

Three new favorite things this year, including the whimsical Whiskers on Kittens™

LUXURY AUTHORITY CAROL BRODIE LAUNCHES THE CAROL BRODIE COLLECTION – A HOME DECOR AND FASHION ACCESSORIES LINE EXCLUSIVELY WITH HSN

From HARRY WINSTON to HSN, CAROL BRODIE has been the fine jewelry and accessories guru for some of the world’s most prestigious brands. HSN’s resident luxury guru and creator of one of HSN’s top selling brands, RARITIES: FINE JEWELRY WITH CAROL BRODIE, launching her namesake brand with a collection of opulent home decor and fashion accessories in Mid-October on the HSN Network.

Holiday 2012 Gift Ideas from Kitchenaid

by Phillip D. Johnson
It’s never too early to start thinking about Christmas and what to give your loved ones. What to get for some of the people—the gourmet cooks and bakers in the family—on your gift list can be easily solved by looking to the room widely acknowledged as the hub of the home for ideas and inspiration: the Kitchen.  KitchenAid has several new offerings this holiday season that are sure to be a welcome addition to any kitchen. Of course, it’s in your best interest to make sure that this is a gift that will be well received and not that will be seen as an insult. (And you do know what I mean.) Also, all of these utensils and Machines, when not in use, are absolutely beautiful works of art for your kitchen. KITCHENAID don’t just make machines that work. They make machines that looks good and add to the esthetic value of your kitchen, machines you would be proud to showcase in your kitchen.

KitchenAid Personal Coffee Maker and Pro Line Toaster. (PRNewsFoto/KitchenAid)

“Regardless of whether those on your list are passionate cooks or simply enjoy making the perfect cup of coffee, the kitchen is a space enjoyed by all, so it’s a great source of inspiration for gift ideas,” notes BETH ROBINSON, SENIOR BRAND EXPERIENCE MANAGER FOR KITCHENAID.  “Those on the receiving end of a KitchenAid product will be getting a gift that keeps on giving.”