Kitten Lounge

Trendy Thursdays: Beam Brings You Into the Daylight

KittenCouture — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 05:00:00 -0700

I have to say that one of the things that I love most about Fashion Week above and beyond the shows is that it's a time when people come together to see people you run past daily or who you only talk to via emails. It's also a time when you have the opportunity to meet others through people that you already know. This can take place at shows, in the tents, parties and so much more. Simply put, it's a great way to relationship build!

Well, the night before Fashion Week, Total Beauty kicked off this week of events by throwing a party and via Sam from Dark PR, I had the pleasure of meeting Andrea and Liza Young, the Brazilian sister duo that is behind New York's prominent, Beam Laser Spa (1841 Broadway Suite 806). The night that I met them, I knew that not only did they look adorable but I was definitely intrigued to learn more about the services that were available at this spa. Fortunately, we were able to meet again and I settled on a date and time to not only have an appointment but to learn about the spa!

Trust me when I say that I was a little nervous to have my appointment. Although the idea of never having to shave under my arms again seemed like a dream, the idea of having a laser on me was a little too Goldfinger for my taste. But my apprehension was calmed by being greeted by Liza who has such a great calm personality, I love that she chatted and explained my forms and one look in the office makes you feel a bit of Zen. Andrea has such an amazing personality and beyond having a bubbly personality, knowing that she is a molecular biologist with an MBA and has worked within the hair removal industry for many years, made me feel that she was knowledgeable about various techniques and had seen the evolution of them.

My initial concern was the obvious - pain, I love how she explained that in areas that had less hair, you wouldn't feel as strong of a sensation as denser areas. In fact, the sensation would be temporary. Seeing her demo the laser and watching the puffs of air that came out that cooled the areas that had received the laser was very calming. But another issue that still remained was that I had always heard that African Americans were not able to have this treatment or that many people felt it simply wasn't for them. Even my mom was shocked that I had received this treatment as she explained that back in the 70's she had had laser treatment in her face and that later her dermatologist had explained that it wasn't for women of color. In fact when Googling on various message boards, I found this response along with warnings of scars and spots appearing on the skin as a huge warning against doing this.

Andrea's knowledge and answer to this question was shocking to hear. In spas that have these laser treatments, those who are olive to darker skinned should find out what kind of wavelength is used in terms of the procedure. Those that are darker need to make sure that their facilities have a dual laser machine which has an Alexandrite and a Yag wave. The YAG wave is for those with darker skin and although it penetrates deeper into the skin layer bypassing the skin color, it has a slightly reduced effect that still removes the hair without lightening our color. I found this amazing and was pleased to know that laser treatments could be an option for all skin tones.

Andrea explained everything, answered questions and continued to make me comfortable. Now for those who are thinking of getting this treatment, they offer a free consultation where they do a patch test. This is where you choose a small area and they do the procedure so that you can have a sample. In many cases, over 90% of those who do the consultation, come back to actually get it done. With all this knowledge and hearing this percentage, I was ready.

Prior to this, I was not able to shave about a day or two before coming in and (to my grossed out dismay) I didn't have deodarent on. Since I was doing my underarms, Andrea, shaved the arms to make sure it was clean, drew the area that would be treated with a white pencil and then used the laser. This procedure probably only took 10 mins total. At first the sensation of feeling the beam and then the cold air on my arms just felt different as you don't usually have this on you; however, when it got to the denser areas, there was slight discomfort. I love that she guaged my reactions and when I needed a slight breather she stopped. She continued to chat with me and you were able to continue. When it was over, aloe was placed under my arms.

I was shocked that it was over so quickly and after she examined my arms, she said that it didn't look aggravated. I felt a slight discomfort but absolutely nothing major. Now when you sign up you know that you will have to do somewhere between 6 - 8 treatments and they are spaced out by 6 weeks. Each time the hairs are growing in less and you can see the difference. In fact, within 3 weeks, both sisters said that I would notice hairs under my arms but that they would literally fall out. Although I am not a fan of stray hairs, the idea that I am one step closer to not having to shave is AMAZING.

When I got home, I checked under my arms and each day (as this took place on Sun) I am amazed that I haven't really seen anything! They offer so many services and I would start with doing your underarms. Because this is such a new thing for me and I have my next treatment in Nov, I will keep you guys up to date on how everything is going. Three weeks from now (actually from this past Sun), I will let you know if I see any hairs. The sisters reminded me that if I have hairs that are growing in by then and have not fallen out, they would take away the stray hairs at no cost.

The care they take from the time they walk in the door to when you leave is amazing and being comfortable is half the battle! Beam Laser Spa is definitely a place that I will refer to my friends and if you guys go there, you have to let me know your thoughts!

Paul's Honest Meal: Sidewalk Heaven

KittenCouture — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 05:00:00 -0700

It’s Monday morning and the last thing you want to do is to get out of your cozy blanketed sanctuary just to answer questions from people, who are apparently smarter than you as so stated on their business cards. Your phone/alarm clock goes for the fifth time and you realize that hitting the snooze button is no longer an option. You must make a decision and you must make it now. Unlike any other Monday leading up to this magical day, you decide go for it on fourth down and call in sick. This isn’t exactly the: “Good morning, I quit in order to pursue my artistic aspirations” type of call, but at the same time you do feel a sense of encouragement that may be, just may be, today is the day that you can free yourself from the restraints of corporate America. Or may be you just want to go for a walk in downtown Manhattan and buy yourself something nice; most like it’s the later.

Its ten o’clock, you get out of bed, put on Sports Center, take a shower and begin prepare your favorite, yet uncomplicated breakfast; two eggs over-easy, a side of bacon and whole grain toast. Although, you’ve made this dish hundreds of times before, surprisingly bacon will be the reoccurring theme for this prefect day. As its time to leave your spacious Manhattan abode, you throw on your favorite pair of jeans and your favorite pair of sneakers, which by the way you would never attempt to wear to work. You grab your cell, your ipod and you’re out.

As you are strolling down Broadway checking out the latest Adidas Originals releases, with Gnarles Barkley blasting into your headphones, you begin to smell something overwhelmingly delicious and inviting. You can’t put your finger on it, but you decide to follow in the footsteps of the great Inspector Gadget, investigate the situation and follow the aroma to its source. You turn onto Bond Street and as you chuckle on the inside at all the poor souls eating chicken wraps on their uncomfortably short lunch breaks, you realize that the scent is getting stronger at a furious pace, so you must be getting closer to your destination. You’re there and you’re in shock. Luck is on your side, you went for it on fourth down and not only did you make it but you scored a touchdown. Your mind celebrates and your mouth is watering. In front of you is Il Buco’s (www.ilbuco.net) 200lb Ossabaw Pig roasted whole to perfection, being expertly dissected by Executive Chef Ignacio Mattos. This is your sidewalk heaven. This is the reason you called in sick. This is the place where you can be free. And if just for an afternoon your memories of the plastic world to which you have become so uncomfortably addicted are replaced with the primal and the authentic. Its love and it lives on a narrow cobblestone street in the city.

On Monday, September 22, 2008, Il Buco restaurant celebrated its 14^th anniversary while hosting its fifth annual “Sagra Del Maiale”, an outdoor Pig and Apple Festival commemorating the Autumn Equinox. Executive chef, Ignacio Mattos began roasting the 200lb Ossabaw beast at 4:30am and he wasn’t finished until 11:30 am. The hogs of Ossabaw Island, off the coast of Georgia, are descendants of “Pata Negra” Spanish pigs brought to the New World over 400 years ago. They are generally smaller in size and have a higher fat to meat ratio, which make them perfect for the “infernillo style” roasting. This particular hog was brought to the city from Cane Creek Farm, Mebane, NC, which specializes in peanut fed Ossabaw pigs. Accompanying the start of the afternoon was a number of delicious complimentary items: Flying Pigs Farm Porchetta Panini on Ciabatta with Blueberry Balsamic Mostarda, House-made Flying Pigs Farm Pig, Apple and Peperoncino Sausage, Farmer's Market Panzanella, Julie's Wild Arugula with Lemon, Red Onion and Pecorino and Apple Ricotta Fritters with Saba.

The afternoon was a spectacular event, which showcased the undoubtedly talented Executive Chef, Ignacios Mattos and his deep knowledge of authentic preparation of Ossabaw hogs. The restaurant, owned by Independent film maker Donna Lennard, boasts a rustic décor which reminds its patrons of its inception as an antique shop. It provides a warm and romantic setting that is perfect for any occasion, from anniversaries to birthday celebrations to simply an enjoyment of a wonderful meal with your loved-one. Il Buco specializes in Mediterranean cuisine and differentiates itself from other neighborhood restaurant by utilizing only sustainable and local agriculture. The pastas are freshly made daily on the premises, the olive oil is imported from Umbria and all meat and produce is fully organic and raised without the use of any hormones or antibiotics. And obviously, we cannot forget about the wine. The extensive boutique wine collection is designed by sommelier Roberto Paris and features a far-reaching selection of Umbrian wines; the list strongly represents Spain, France, Germany and the U.S. as well as other countries. Il Buco’s philosophy is “to seek out wines from smaller, lesser known producers, introducing our customers to a variety of wines they might not otherwise have the opportunity to sample.” Il Buco is also a location that is of legends. Legend has it that Edgar Allen Poe, once a regular visitor to 47 Bond St, took the wine cellar as inspiration for his haunting short story "The Cask of Amontillado". The wine cellar is available privately as well as for regular seating. An ipod dock to the cellars surround sound system is a desired feature that is available for private parties.

The wine cellar reminds me of an underground play-land available only to the knowing, the well-versed and the interesting as if transformed from the “From Hell” movie set. The raw iron, the aged wood and the feeling of escape to the culinary underground will give any patron a pleasant shiver, as well as, mental stimulation in addition to orgasmic palate sensations. The place is raw, organic and unpolluted with ones daily problems. So do your self and your friends a favor – reserve the entire cellar, bring your ipod and take pleasure in the art of the conversation while enjoying the heaviest beats of your favorite artists and the flavorful combinations of Executive Chef Ignacio Mattos.

Modern Romance Bridal Event

KittenCouture — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 20:01:07 -0700

Last night I went to the Millenium Hotel's Hudson Theater to attend the Modern Romance Bridal Event. Now before anyone starts spreading stories, I am not engaged nor does that seem on the immediate horizon; however, I know it will happen one day and I am a fan of various Bridal shows and in lieu of hearing from people on Twitter, those I have lunch with and more announcing their engagements, I felt that this was something that I wanted to know about. Now I have attended many bridal events which are bona fide tradeshows where there are booths of the same types of services that are run by various companies, I would find this very overwhelming and difficult in terms of just focusing on the moment,. I wasn't sure what I was walking into but I was very intrigued to not only attend the event but to also see the Jenny Yoo Collection which I am familiar with many of her dresses.

Upon entering, I knew that this wouldn't be a massive and impersonal show.. For $25, brides were able to come to the event with a guest and to sample various foods, beverages and an extremely select group of vendors from entertainment, spa, makeup and more. The best part, this was extremely intimate! There weren't large groups of people the entryway of the theater (which at one time had actually housed various Broadway productions prior to their purchase of the Millenium Hotel next door) allowed everyone to check in, receive their goodie bag and to meet with the vendors. This space was illuminated with lighting and large mirrors. I know I began thinking about having an event here as the mood was definitely in place. As you walked into the theater, you were welcomed with tasty sweets on the right and on the left various meats and appetizers. Both sides had bartenders and of course there were passed beverages and drinks as well. I was very pleased to enjoy the champagne. The theater not only had tables set in various motifs that were created by James Abel Events (I love the amber inspired table), but there was seating for the fashion show and on the stage the band played. This was very soothing and kudos to the organizers to hold the event from 6:00 - 9:30. Although the fashion show didn't start until nearly 8:00, it was nice to come early and to have ample time to talk to the vendors while also recognizing that some brides would be unable to come until later.

Most of the attendees had a guest with them (kudos to the fiancees that appeared) although I felt bad for those that were alone as this was definitely an event to begin honing in on the decisions of your wedding while also enjoying the atmosphere. Mental note: these events are the best to go to and I would prefer to not go alone - friends and family beware!

I could go on and on about each vendor but I focused on certain areas but if you have a question, you can contact me and I can pass on what I know/heard. Jo Malone attended this event and as I have always been a fan and tend to walk by their Flatiron location, I was pleased to learn that they have an interesting way of offering their services. Obviously, they are available to have the bride and their party come to their location to enjoy their services and they are also able to travel as well. This is a great way to get pampered and to enjoy one another's time. But the most interesting element that I enjoyed was learning about their Fragrance Combining. This service is where the bride chooses a particular scent that will be worn for the wedding and then her bridesmaids will have various notes of this scent with other items layered in. In this way, the bride has a signature scent and her bridal party has elements of it while being different from hers. She doesn't have to worry about competing or offending scents as it is complimentary. I loved this concept and was so pleased that the two ladies attending this booth were so knowledgeable about this. Pampering and a signature scent - fabulous.

This event also had a great blend between traditional versus having your own element within your wedding. The band played traditional songs such as "Just the Way You Look Tonight", "Night & Day", "What's Going On", while also putting in a Stevie Wonder song that had elements of Will Smith in the song. They were not only playful and welcoming but they showed their range as we listened to the different songs and heard from the male and female singers respectively. This was enjoyable as we had Tuna Tartar, Spicy Shrimp and more.

Prior to the fashion show, I was able to see Tarte Cosmetics offerings, Cake Alchemy, Jerry Kravat Entertainment and more. Our hostess for the night who I thought was very warm and shared many of her experiences as she had recently been married, introduced the Fred Astaire Dance Studio. This couple did two dances (shown in the video) with a traditional dance and then one that was a salsa for the first dance. Once this was completed, we were treated to the Jenny Yoo Collection which had wedding gowns and then vibrant hues for bridesmaids dresses. These are definitely not the dresses that I have seen in Bridezilla epidsodes where the adventurous bride strives to find the most questionable dresses. These are beautiful gowns that you could use for other dressy occassions and that are very flattering whether you're looking for long, short, strapless, halter and more. Of course no fashion show of dresses would be complete without showing the super cute flower girl!

I left this event thinking that there are no shortage of events that "assist" brides and their friends and families with the options available to them. But when it is my turn, I want to attend events such as this that have a select group of vendors, a small number of attendees and then having a staff that caters to everyone so that you can feel special leading up to your day.

NYC Bridal Event: Jenny Yoo

KittenCouture — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 14:58:58 -0700

This Wed for those that are making plans for their amazing wedding, you can attend the Modern Romance Bridal Soiree at the Broadway Millenium Hotel at 145 W 44th Street this Wed the 24th at 6:00pm - 9:30pm. This is a great evening to see the Jenny Yoo Collection and also to meet various Wedding Planner Professionals. This event also includes appetizers and cocktails (provided by Hudson theater) as well. For $25, you and a guest will be able to enjoy seeing great garments and to start putting your plans into action! If you know someone or will be getting married and are in the area, this is the perfect event for you! In addition to seeing the Jenny Yoo Collection, you can enjoy the following attendees: Tarte, Abby Jean Invitations, Neuhaus Chocolates, Brides.com and Brides NY and many more. Visit the website to see how you can be added to this event. Of course, Kitten Lounge will be covering this event and sharing it with you as well.