Pandora

Good Day Ravishing Readers! 

We are on the countdown to our incredible event and we can’t wait to show you all the great and amazing entertainment we will be featured on the PANDORA Open Catwalk!!  We are thrilled to have spoken with Keshia Holland from PANDORA Jewelry about their simply gorgeous collections.  Keep an eye out for how you can create your PANDORA Unforgettable Moment at ANTM Live!  

“Choose pieces that express your personality and celebrate the things that are important to you.”

 How did Pandora come to be?

        PANDORA was started by Per and Winnie Enevoldsen in Denmark in 1982. Today, the company employs approximately 5,300 individuals and its jewellery is sold in more than 65 countries across six continents. PANDORA launched its jewellery line in the Canadian market in 2003. Most recently, PANDORA was named the second most popular brand among luxury consumers, according to a fourth quarter luxury tracking study conducted by Unity Marketing.

What makes Pandora so unique?

        PANDORA is based on the concept of unforgettable moments. We all have them, to each of us they are unique and special — they are stories worth sharing. PANDORA allows every woman to tell her own story with high-quality, hand-finished, feminine jewellery made from genuine materials, at prices they can afford. The PANDORA collection of jewellery offers something for everyone, and the wearer to create and combine pieces to express her own personal style.

Where did the concept for the charm bracelet originate?

        Charms and charm bracelets have been worn for thousands of years, but PANDORA launched its version of the charm bracelet in 2000. PANDORA charm bracelets use a patented threading system (U.S. Pat. No. 7,007,507) that allows charms to stay evenly distributed across the entire bracelet. Also, unlike traditional charms, PANDORA charms are threaded in the center and can be easily twisted onto the bracelet by the wearer in any arrangement desired, without the need for soldering. The design allows for the charms to move freely and rotate slightly with the wrist’s movement, creating an eye-catching effect.

What is Pandora’s mission?

        To offer women across the world a universe of high quality, hand-finished, modern and genuine jewellery products at affordable prices.

What is the biggest moment in Pandora’s history?

        The PANDORA history is peppered with unforgettable moments; however, 2000 saw the launch of PANDORA’s ever-popular charm bracelet on the Danish market, and this was truly a big moment for the brand. Created with the idea of “one charm for every unforgettable moment in a woman’s life,” the concept was quickly embraced. Women enjoy the ability to customize their bracelets by selecting from hundreds of hand-finished sterling silver, 14K gold, Murano glass and exotic wood charms, which they can easily add on by virtue of a patented threading system.

What benefits does the Pandora Club offer?

        The PANDORA Club was created to enhance the PANDORA experience. Becoming a member is free and easy. Once registered, members can virtually assemble their own charm bracelets, create combinations of stackable rings and put together their own watch designs. They can create printable wish lists of charms and other PANDORA jewellery. Club members also have the option of receiving an e-newsletter with all the latest news about PANDORA products, including new editions of charms. Last year, PANDORA launched the PANDORA Magazine, which is available only to PANDORA Club members and features celebrity interviews, as well as PANDORA style inspiration, tips and trends.

Can you give readers some accessorizing tips?

·         Invest in your jewellery essentials. These don’t need to be expensive, but when it comes to buying your essential jewellery pieces, look for those made from genuine, quality materials such as sterling silver, 14K gold, precious and semi-precious stones, which will retain their value and beauty for years. Basics that every woman needs include a statement ring or stackable rings; earrings of various lengths (studs and longer dangling earrings); bangles and bracelets you can layer; a great watch; and a chain necklace that you can wear a pendant on. When you have the jewellery essentials, you can create and combine pieces to fit every trend that comes along.

·         Create balance. Jewellery pieces look best when they are grouped in odd numbers, such as three, five or seven, which helps create balance. Wear odd number of rings or bracelets to achieve this look. You can also choose to layer a watch with a couple leather bracelets or bangles to achieve the same effect.

·         Tell your story. Choose pieces that express your personality and celebrate the things that are important to you. Whether it’s a vintage piece of jewellery from your grandmother, a silk scarf you purchased on a trip to India, or a bracelet you create over the years with charms that have special meaning, your accessories should tell your story.

A big thank you to Keshia for taking the time to answer our questions! Don’t forget to check out their booth at #643, as well as the Pandora Open Catwalk for AMAZING fashion shows, live entertainment and style advice from experts and Open Catwalk hosts, Janette Ewen and Afiya Francisco!

Until Next Time My Glamazons!

Chibi Seimei

Dear Ravishing Readers,

I’ve recently had the amazing opportunity to have an interview with the creator of Chibi Seimei Jewellery. It’s amazing how devoted and passionate she is about jewellery- keep reading to see for yourself!

 Where did your love for designing jewellery come from?

I started in paper crafting with Japanese washi and origami, before I had my jewellery line. Although, I still create all-occasion cards using Japanese washi quilting and other paper crafts, it's actually the versatility of Japanese washi that drew me further into jewellery making and designing.

How long does it take to design and create each piece?

Each design can take between a day to three days from start to finish, it all depends on complexity of components and design. Some of my designs may include layering/hand casting of jewelry grade resin, and in some even hand painting, so that's an average estimate. Jewelry grade resin can take up to three days to completely cure.

 

Where does the inspiration come from for your designs?

Earlier this year I went to see the Chagall exhibit with the other Russian masters at the AGO (notably both Chagall and Kandinsky) has been a most recent great source of inspiration for my Industrial/Steampunk line. I'm a great admirer of Klimt for his use of gold leafing and geometrics, whose inspiration can be seen in some of my finishes and accents.

My favourite material, Japanese washi which is nature-themed gives an endless array of design possibilities in my jewellery. I'm an avid film and theatre buff, so I get excited in making pieces that are inspired by what I see on screen and the theatre.

What jewellery trends do you think are going to be big this summer?

For summer, floral accents are going to be big, so are pearls, so expect to see lots of them. The colour of the year for 2012 as dictated by Pantone is Tangerine Tango. Palettes will be brightened by metallics and bright hues, think '70s colours. For softer mellower moods, pastels will ever be present and vintage as well.

Vintage in my opinion will incarnate as Parisian chic and through a growing genre of Steampunk devotees.

Are you working on any new pieces? If  so, what makes them unique?

I'm always working on new pieces and new designs, and that's because I'm constantly churning ideas in my head. Each one is unique because each piece is created with spontaneity in order for the creative design to flow freely.

There's always new pieces that will be introduced in the show where I will be at, so they shouldn't miss America's Next Top Model Live Toronto on May 4-6 at the MTCC.

Where do you see Chibi Seimei in the future?

I see Chibi Seimei growing creatively with satisfied repeat clients and with an easily recognized brand name.

What is your favourite piece you’ve created, why?I would have to say that my most favourite piece would be my next finished piece. I'm usually working on a few pieces at the same time with different stimulus driving each one. But I devote the same committed focus in the creative design in each one, so one can say that after every piece is done, it ultimately becomes a favourite, equally as much as the others.

Make sure you stop by booth # 531 to see Chibi Seimei jewellery for yourself!

See you soon Glamazons!

Floral Inspired.

April showers bring May flowers! PANDORA’s Spring/Summer 2012 collection takes its inspiration from flowers and nature. We love these long earrings and wreath necklace, which are hand-finished in sterling silver with 14K and black spinel floral details. The coordinating stackable rings starts at $45. Explore all the new pieces on the PANDORA website. 

SPRING IS HERE!

Dragonflies, butterflies, and ladybugs adorned our barrettes when we were younger, but the grown-up versions of insect-inspired jewels make a beautiful statement. Check out this sterling silver dragonfly pendant from PANDORA, adorned with 14K gold and black zirconia accents. Explore the entire Spring/Summer 2012 collection on the PANDORA website.

Ready For Mothers Day?

Looking for a charming way to show Mom how much she means to you? Start with a PANDORA two-tone barrel bracelet and have each of your siblings pick out a special charm. We love the red enamel “Mother Daughter” heart charm that splits into two pieces. Create a bracelet just for her at www.PandoraGiftAdvisor.com.

Nikki & The Dancers Of Toronto

Dear Ravishing Readers,

Nikki Johnson, Creative Director and Founder of The Dancers Of Toronto (T.D.O.T) is thrilled to be presenting the dancers for our Schwarzkopf Professional Main Stage Show and was kind enough to take a break from her busy schedule to speak with us.

When did you first realize that you wanted to dance?

In my house, music was always playing and I was always dancing. When I was 7 I befriended a girl on my street that went to a dance studio. I remember trading my troll dolls for her dance costumes and putting on shows in my backyard.  All I wanted to do was create and perform. My mom brought me to a dance studio when I was 8 years old and I began taking Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Character before auditioning and being accepted into the Cawthra Park Arts program for Dance at the age of 13.

You’ve worked with so many talented people. Is there a specific occasion which sticks out in your mind as a great experience?

Honestly every time I get in a studio or on stage it’s a great experience; especially dealing with injuries I am just grateful anytime I’m able to dance and perform. I really enjoy dancing with Kim Davis.  When I hit the stage with her and the other dancers it is like a group of friends doing what they love and vibing off each other’s talents.

How did you come up with the name T.D.O.T?

Incidentally the name came to fruition in Vancouver B.C in 2010. Right before I left I took a long walk along the sea wall and had one of those serious reflections on my life and future moments.  Dealing with knee injuries forced me to think about my life as a dancer and if performing could be a livelihood for me. I thought of the name Dancers of Toronto for a project and referred to it as DOT. It hit me on that walk that some people refer to Toronto as TDOT so I added a T to the Dot and made the acronym The Dancers of Toronto. As soon as I arrived back home I registered the name and it took a year before I actually used it and started the blog. I guess I was subconsciously waiting for the right moment.

Where did the idea to create a blog come from?

The idea came from one of my best friends in 2011. I never really focused much attention on blogs before she started hers. She was posting different fashion items she enjoyed and I realized a blog was basically posting pictures and content about something you’re passionate about and a light went off. I had the name T.D.O.T. The Dancers of Toronto and really didn’t know what I wanted to do with it. After seeing her blog I thought why not showcase a different Dancer and or Choreographer from or working in Toronto?!?! And that’s how it all started!!

You’re expanding your blog. What kinds of services are you going to be offering?

 Booking Dancers & Choreographers for small to large scale events, promotions and more

 Dance Instruction

 Innovative Workshops

 Fitness, Rehabilitation and Nutrition Programs

I found out in early 2011 that I was eligible for a government program if I could present a viable business idea. I worked for 3 months to prepare an application to submit to the government and the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities. I was accepted and with the help of the Toronto Business Development centre and the OSEB program, I was able to put a solid plan together to get me started on building T.D.O.T. into a business…

Since starting the blog it’s been a blessing and extremely gratifying to book experienced dance professionals in my network for paying jobs. Being the artistic director for T.D.O.T. is definitely something I love and will continue to do. Designing sets, costumes, choreographing and collaborating with dancers and choreographers bring me joy.

I will also be creating Dance workshops and training programs across Canada, Australia and other countries with different Choreographers in my network. My good friend Ashanti Suryiam runs a Dance company Realise Energise Dance (R.E.D). In 2009 I helped facilitate 2 of her first workshops with Toronto Choreographers Tre Armstrong and Lenny Dela Pena. Ashanti has continued to bring choreographers from all over the world to Australia and it’s an honor to work with and learn from her. I’m working towards my Functional Anatomy, Pilates and specialized injuries certification to create Health and Fitness programs based around Dance, Pilates and rehabilitation. These programs will target not only Dancers but none Dancers as well. I was honored this past month to be named a Dance Ambassador by the Canadian Dance Assembly for their I Love Dance/J’aime La Danse campaign which was officially launched on April 19th 2012. I’ve recently become a board member for the Dance for Life Foundation which is a non-profit organization that raises funds annually for a “Charity of Choice”. The founder and all the board members are part of the Dance community. Needless to say I’m trying to keep busy !

Where do you hope to see this in the future?

I definitely see myself with a centre offering all of these services and more. It’s all mapped out in my head, on my hard drive and in various notebooks as well as my formal business plan. My Focus is and always will be T.D.O.T.‘s mission: To RECOGNIZE, SHOWCASE AND NURTURE The Dancers and Choreographers of Toronto. I want to give back with the experience I have, continuing to educate and empower myself as well as Dancers and company’s seeking Dancers/Choreographers. I need to thank all the amazing people in my life who believe and encourage me as well as the instructors and mentors at the Toronto Business Development centre for their guidance and training to pursue my dreams.

Do you have any advice to give to aspiring dancers or performers?

Yes. Train with different choreographers, expand your network past your comfort zone and always follow your passion; know why you’re doing what you do. I have a quote on my blog “Don’t give up when you still have something to give. Nothing is over until the moment you stop trying“. I’m not sure who said it but I love it! I take it as never give up when you’re passionate about something. Period!! Not being able to perform regularly or take classes could have led me in a different direction, but I knew from past experiences that Dance is where my heart is. Whether or not I am in the forefront or behind the scenes; a life in Dance is where I need to be!

Links:

Website: www.TheDancersOfToronto.com

Blog: www.TheTDOTBlog.com

Facebook: TheDancersofToronto1

Twitter: @NicoleMissNikki and @TheDancersofTO

Linked In: Nicole “Nikki" Johnson

My very 1st post on T.D.O.T.: http://thetdotblog.com/2011/01/24/nikki-johnson/

A HUGE thank you to Nikki for giving us some insight into a dancer’s life! We can’t wait to see the T.D.O.T dancers on the Schwarzkopf Professional Main Stage May 4 -6^th at ANTM Live!

Until Next Time My Glamazons!

Interview with Shannon Stewart!

Dear Ravishing Readers,

We recently had the opportunity to speak with America’s Next Top Model All Stars’ Shannon Stewart who blew us away with her positivity, confidence, and inspiration. She truly is the epitome of a great role model for young girls!

"I would like to encourage you to not compromise who you are for your dreams."

Have you always known you wanted to model?
When I was five years old, I saw a Maybelline cosmetics commercial and was instantly drawn to the model in it. I didn't know at that age that I wanted to be a model when I grew up, but it did spark my interest. The interest became my desire when I was around fourteen. I didn't know if that desire would ever come to "life," but I knew that if I did not try, then I would always wonder. I am blessed to have such loving parents that encouraged me to go after my dreams and to not "settle." They definitely made an incredible impact on my life!

Tell us about your first experience in the industry?
I not only remember it, but I also have pictures to remind me of my first experience. It definitely wasn't glamorous to some people. but to me, it got my feet wet. I was in a fashion show at a local mall near my home. I still remember the black dress I wore that had a huge bow at the waist, with bright colors on it. The picture is quite funny to look at now!!! I always tell people you have to start somewhere. Most people never start at the "top." You have to work your way up there! The "bottom" and your journey up to the top makes you appreciate what it took to get there and not take it for granted once you have reached a certain "status." No matter how far I go in this life, I never want to forget where I came from. 
 

Why did you audition for America's Next Top Model?
American Idol had just started around that time (I believe) so that show was really popular and made people's dreams come true. I thought that ANTM could do that for models, so I wanted to enter to find out! I knew that I would never know until I tried. I thought it would be a long shot for me to make it, but I was willing to at least enter. Come to find out, I did make it on the very first season!

What is your most memorable experience from ANTM?
My most memorable experience to the "public" would have to be me refusing to do the nude shoot in Paris at the Budda Bar! What a lot of people don't realize is, that in real-life modeling, you can say no! I have told my agents the things I won't do, and they do not send me to castings for those types of jobs, or submit me for them. The bad side to reality tv is that if you do not participate in a shoot, then it significantly hurts your chances of winning. They want a girl that will do anything, and I am not that girl. Some people may think that I didn't really want to win if I wasn't willing to do the shoot, but I did want to win--SO BAD! I am a girl that won't compromise my standards or who I am for money or fame. If it goes against my beliefs, standards, then I won't do it. Money or fame can't buy me. This industry will eat you alive if you let it. I have set certain standards of what I will and won't do and that has helped me remain true to who I am and not get caught up in the "glitz and glamor," which can ruin you if you let it. I love being remembered as the girl that stood up for herself and was willing to say, "no!"

Who do you look up to most in the fashion industry, and why?

Kathy Ireland is a role model to me. She is a supermodel, now business woman. She has created such a lucrative business, but has remained true to herself and I think that is why she succeeds. She seems like a classy lady and I would love to meet her or even work with her one day!

What have you been doing since we last saw you on ANTM?
I have been modeling, speaking, working on two books, and have been trying to keep up with blogging and writing my fans back through my website shannonstewartmodel.com. I have also done a ton of interviews for different things! One was for a Hong Kong Magazine called "Angel's Heart" that just came out! I am also meeting with Nancy the Founder of Mercy Ministries next week. It is an amazing non-profit organization that helps girls with eating disorders, abuse, cutting, or ones that have had babies. They really have been used to help so many girls, young ladies.

After your first cycle of ANTM, you competed in pageants, can you tell us a bit about those experiences?

Growing up I was always fascinated with watching Miss USA on TV. I loved watching the girls sashay in their gorgeous gowns. I liked the idea of it not just being about a lady who took care of herself, but was able to articulate, and stand up for what she believed in. It is kind of a long story how I even got stirred up to enter, but I did. I was shocked that I made it runner-up in the Miss Ohio USA pageant, especially because it was my first one. ANTM isn't about if you have character or not, or the person that you are, so I was excited to at least try the pageant for I knew that if I miraculously won, it would be platform for me since I have the desire to be a role model.


 Do you have any advice for young women?
Oh my....where do I even start! haha :) I would have to say to all of the young ladies out there that dreams to come true! I am a living example that they do. I would like to encourage you to not compromise who you are for your dreams, for it won't be worth it in the end. Many girls will say yes, but there are few who are willing to say no. You want to be respected rather than well-liked for respect is harder to earn! Most who watched ANTM know that I saved myself for my husband. I want to encourage you to wait for your future husband too! It is something that only YOU can give away! It is so worth it and your future man will be so happy that you CHOSE to save it just for him! My husband and I actually both waited. It isn't easy, but worth it! :) Oh, one last thing. Beauty isn't about having the most perfect skin, the best body, or the most amazing outfits. True beauty comes from within and shines through your exterior. You are beautiful in the Lord's eyes and it doesn't matter what "society's" standards of beauty are!


 We can't wait to meet her in person at America's Next Top Model Live this May!

 A big thank you to Shannon for taking her time to answer our questions! Don’t forget to follow her on Twitter if you aren’t already! www.twitter.com/shannonstewart1