MBFW Kick-Off Party

I had a blast at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week kick off party! I went with my girls and had a great time as always. I had the chance to do lots of interviews including two interviews for Fashion TV. Stay tuned for more images.

Radio Interview with @MichaelSLive on Brazil's #1 Station "Saved by the Beat"

Tune in online on Sun the 8th at 2pm and listen to my interview with Michael S. LIVE on Saved by the Beat show!

Interview with Modelocity Online

 

Hi luvs! I recently did this interview with Modelocity Online, Read it here and let me know what you think. It's all about Model Latina and my experience on the show.

Images: Queen of the Cuban Day Parade in NJ

 

Thank you to the Founders of the Cuban Day Parade and everyone that was part of this special day!

Interview with Samy Gicherman Couture Designer and President of "Fashion Koncept"

1. Tell us a little about "Fashion Koncept" and how you came up with this fantastic idea?

- Fashion Koncept group is a super exclusive, unique concept, where contemporary fashion designers and independent labels can go and strengthen their brand presence in the fashion world. Located in the heart of the historic district MIMO in Miami, "FK" offers fashion services for designers. It is also an important place where designers have a variety of services available in order to achieve their success in the development and marketing of their collections.

Services Offered at Fashion Koncept are:

-Boutique
-Show Room
-Patterns and Samples
-Brand Development
-Events
-Public Relations
-Photography and Video
-Fashion Show

Each designer may combine the services according to their needs. "FK" also offers a Boutique Room, Label Room, Sample Room and a Dot graphic design laboratory Room.

2. Tell us about the recent photoshoot you had at "Fashion Koncept"?


- The photoshoot we just had at "FK" was for my recently launched line "Pajaro de Fuego". I just launched that line and it's my first under the brand "SAMY GI". It is an amazing collection inspired by the 80's and very retro.



3. You worked with an international team of artists for this shoot. Tell us about them?

- To obtain the amazing look I wanted for this collection, I worked with an amazing team of experts that all happened to be my good friends. We had photographer COCO Alarcon, Make up artist Angela Fischer, and the accessories were provided by designer Lorena Prado. We also had great models and a lot of press and media present at the day of the shoot.

4. Tell us about your new collection "Pajaro de Fuego"?


- This collection is a ready to wear line under the brand SAMY GI. The designs are very sophisticated yet simple with a retro inspired look. The prices are affordable. It's a beautiful collection that shows my creativity and love for my country of Venezuela.

Undo edits

5. What other projects are you currently working on?


- I am currently developing photoshoots and other projects for the designers and brands that are already in "Fashion Koncept". I am also getting ready to show my beautiful collection at various Fashion Weeks that I have been invited to such as DILA, Ecuador Fashion Week, Nicaragua Fashion Week and the Dominicana Moda (Fashion Week), and Houston Fashion Week.

Samy Gicherman | President
Fashion Koncept Group Co.
7101 Biscayne Blvd | Miami, FL 33138
samy@fashionkoncept.com | www.fashionkoncept.com

Interview: 5 Questions with NBC Miami Reporter Nathalie Pozo

 

Maytee: What's it like working for NBC Miami?

Nathalie: I really enjoy working for NBC Miami. I grew up in Miami, all my family is here and I feel very blessed and fortunate to be back working, doing what I love in the city that I love. After graduating college I had to move around a bit to gain experience in smaller markets. Miami is such a big city that they like people to have experience. So after three and half years of moving and working at different stations I am so glad to be back home!

Maytee: Can you give me a snippet of what your day looks like?

Nathalie: My day starts at 2:45am!! That’s the time my alarm goes off. I am snoozer so I don’t get out of bed until 3am. I get dressed, wash my face, brush my teeth, grab my breakfast from the fridge and I’m out the door within 20min. I walk into work with my flip flops, no make-up and hair not done. I start gathering my information for the newscast, check my email to make sure nothing was sent the night before that I should know about before going on air. And depending if there is a really bad accident when I come in, I get on the phone with police to find out more information. If not I check just a few minutes before going on at 5am. Traffic changes every minute so getting info 40 minutes before I am going to present it is not useful, unless it is something huge! Around 4:20am I go to the make-up room and get my make-up done. I do my own hair and then at 5am we hit the air. I do traffic hits every 15 minutes between 5am & 7am. Than between 7am & 10am while The Today Show is on, I do them every 25minutes. In between this time I am getting ready for our second show that I co-host. That show is live from 11am to noon. It’s a lifestyle show with fashion, events, dining and more.
 

Maytee: During your career, what has been an exciting story you've covered?

Nathalie: One of the stories I hold in my heart was when I was working for the ABC affiliate in West palm beach. It was the day Fidel Castro transferred power over to his brother, Raul Castro. I was able to do a story on the struggles and challenges my family faced when leaving Cuba and coming to a new country. I interviewed some of my family members and delivered the story live from S.W. 8^th St. in front of Versailles Restaurant. There was a sea of media there that day. The sidewalk was packed with reporters and cameramen/women. I felt so honored to be a part of that memorable day.

Maytee: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Nathalie: I love that I love what I do. I have a passion for it and look forward to going to work every morning. I still can’t believe I get paid to do this because I love it so much. I really like being able to voice the communities concerns, tell their stories. I love seeing a story develop and unfold right before my eyes. I love breaking news, it is such an adrenalin rush. I love that it is something different every day.

Maytee: What tip would you give to aspiring journalists and reporters?

Nathalie: I would tell aspiring journalists that they really need to have a passion for news. It is not an easy job. When I first started I had to carry my own camera, shoot my footage, conduct the interviews, edit it and present it at the end of the day. I was a One Man Band reporter, that’s the term used to refer to do it all. I would go back and do it all again in a heartbeat. I can now say that I know the process from start to finish because I did it all! So as you can see, it is not a glamorous job like many people think. Also, you make very little money and need to move around to gain experience, so you really need to love it. I would advise students to do internships. Education plays a huge element, but there is just so much you can learn in the classroom when it comes to news. Internships let you experience news and reporting hands on. Take advantage of your internship once you are there, sit down with reporters and producers and don’t be afraid to ask questions. That’s how you are going to learn. Get to know every aspect of the newsroom and how it operates. Go out with reporters so you can experience being out in the field. And most important…be yourself, be real. Don’t try and be someone you are not.  

Follow Nathalie Pozo On Twitter:
@NathalieNBCMia

 

Interview: 5 Questions with World Famous @DJIrie

 

 

Maytee: In addition to DJing, you are also a philanthropic entrepreneur. You created the annual "Irie Weekend", which is amazing! How do you feel and what was the inspiration behind it?

DJ Irie: I am soo proud of "IRIE Weekend" and for what it has become to our community.. I started IRIE Weekend 7 years ago and it has grown exponentially ever since and we've been able to support some amazing programs for our youth because of it.. I could sit here and speak about all the inspiration behind me starting IRIE Weekend and we would be here all day but the single most important inspiration is Mr. Alonzo Mourning. Alonzo has been an amazing friend and positive influence on me for over a decade now. I was privileged to work with  him and his Alonzo MourningCharities organization and learn the true meaning of community and philanthropy. I am following in his footsteps and guided by his great examples.

Tracy & Alonzo Mourning & DJ Irie.

Maytee: What is your favorite venue to spin at?

DJ Irie: This is a REALLY tough question... I've played at some amazing venues all over the world but my most favorite places to perform are right here at home on South Beach! Venue's like LIV, SET, WALL & MYNT to name are few are venues I absolutely LOVE to perform at and I consider to be some of the top in the world.

DJ Irie crowd surfing at LIV

Maytee: What is any advice you would like to give to those who would like to follow in your footsteps?

DJ Irie: I would share 2 bits of advice.. One is that if you want to create a career out of DJing then make sure you are passionate about the craft.. DJing isn't just one does.. it's someone one LIVES.. if I wasn't DJing as a career I would still go home every night and jump on the turntables and play music for myself just because I LOVE IT so I LIVE IT no matter what. If you are passionate about it then you will excel at it naturally because you will be enjoying what you do every step of the way and it will never feel like 'work' or a 'job'. The second bit of advice is if you do pursue a career as a DJ the FIRST thing you need to do is to eliminate the notion of you being a DJ out of your mind.. you are NOT a DJ.. but rather a Business.. a Brand that provides a DJ service. What I mean by that is soo many DJ's don't treat themselves and what they do as a business but rather as something they 'do' to make a couple of bucks. You can only get so far with that mentality. Any successful business invests in marketing, promotion and constantly improving on their product or service. If you're not doing those things how can expect your business to grow?

DJ Irie at LIV Fontainebleau Miami Beach during the Sucker Free Awards

Maytee: Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

DJ Irie: This is a great question and one that I get asked quite a bit and one that I never have the answer to.. not that we don't work with a plan or have any projections but rather if you asked me this questions 5 years AGO I couldn't even fathom the things we are doing today.. Official DJ of Carnival Cruise Lines, Brand Ambassador to BankAtlantic partnership deals with some of the biggest companies out there i.e. Heineken & New Era etc.. I couldn't have told you that 5 years ago. So for the next 5 years the only plan we are going to execute is to do what we do Bigger, Better and even more Innovative.. with each passing day the goal is to strive for perfection.

Maytee: What are some of your upcoming events we should look out for?

DJ Irie: Lookout for the biggest New Years Eve celebration south of times square! The Orange Drive New Years Eve Music Festival taking place on Dec 31st on South Beach. It really is the only way to ring in the new year with performances by some of your favorite musician and DJ's including yours truly.. more information at www.orangedr.com. For 2012 lookout for me hosting the halftime show at the Orange Bowl and of course rocking the AmericanAirlines Arena for our Miami HEAT fans night in and night out on our quest for a second Championship. Stay tuned for the 8th Annual IRIE Weekend as well June 28th through July 1st.

Follow DJ Irie on Twitter:

@DJIrie

 

Interview: 5 Questions with Designer Stevie Boi

 

Maytee: What inspired your recent collection?

Stevie: My recent collection is inspired by Religion & Culture.

Maytee: What are some of your favorite pieces from that collection?

Stevie: I love the gun piece and the pieces are adjust to people's facial structure.

Maytee: What advice would you give to those looking to follow in your footsteps?

Stevie: Be original & dedicate your soul to your craft.

Maytee: What can we expect to see from you next?

Stevie: Something more vibrant and colorful.

Maytee: Where can we purchase and see more of Stevie Boi?

Stevie: www.Stevieboi.com

 

Interview: 5 Questions with America's Next Top Model Cycle 17 (All-Stars) @AngeleaPreston

 

Maytee: So far what has been the best part of being on ANTM?

Angelea: There are soooo many "best parts" [laughs] but if I had to choose I'd say getting the chance to meet celebrities I never thought I would meet...ever!! ANTM has opened so many doors and given me so many opportunities just being lucky to have been selected to participate on that show is truly the best part also!

Maytee: What inspires you?


Angelea: My family inspires me, especially my niece Nysharra. She is definitely the driving force and keeps me motivated.

Maytee: What is any advice you would like to give to those who would like to follow in your footsteps?

Angelea: DO YOUR RESEARCH!!!! Never give up!!! This industry is tough, the ones who make it are the ones who work hard and persist! If you want to make it in this business develop a thick skin because you will be criticized and critiqued over and over again, persistence (those who are serious, put in the work and never give up especially during tough times!) and NETWORKING! Networking is key, sometimes its not what you know but WHO you know!

Maytee: What can we expect to see next from you?

Angelea:  Music!! I'm in the studio right now recording, I recently did the Backstage Access for Livestream for Akoo Clothing at NYFW so I'm looking to get into more hosting opportunities. I had a role in the feature film Breathe which premiered at the ABFF in Miami this year so acting is something I am looking forward to doing more of as well. I am going to co write a book with Alycia Kaback who is an entrepreneur and business woman in this industry about the industry which is going to be an awesome read! I booked a campaign for a t shirt line so you will be seeing that really soon & some other things too but I have to be shhhh about it right now. [Laughs]

Maytee: Where can we see more of the beautiful Angelea Preston?

Angelea: I have my official website www.angeleaonline.com where you can the latest photos, news, and updates from me! My official fan page is Angelea Preston and my twitter is @AngeleaPreston and yes I respond and follow back so don't be shy!!

 

                                                                                                                  

Interview: 5 Questions with Adolfo Sanchez Designs @asanchezfashion

 

Maytee: What inspired you to become a designer?


Adolfo: When I was about 15 or 16 years old, I started to really get into the art of fashion. My primary group of friends were largely interested in several of the fashion houses; through their influence, I got my first taste of the who’s who of fashion. I remember them showing me runway shows from designers like Thierry Mugler and Vivienne Westwood. Later on I began working in retail and soon I worked for some of the larger fashion houses like Gucci, and Versace. In early 2006 I decided that I wanted to design and really explore pursuing a career in the industry. Prior to pursuing my interest in fashion; I was just a rebellious teenager that was intrigued by underground aspects of art/fashion/music and exploring the latest trends. I always experimented with what I wore and enjoyed standing out from the crowd.

Maytee: Tell us what inspired your recent collection?


Adolfo: Last season Fall/Winter 2011, I wanted to create a dark collection that’s aesthetic was wearable for woman from east to west. This Spring/Summer 2012 collection, however, I wanted to create softer designs, inspired in the 1920’s but with a modern look to them. I used my usual dark colors combining them with pastels and always giving some edge to the designs.

Maytee: What advice would you like to share with those who would like to follow in your footsteps?


Adolfo: That they need patience, dedication, perseverance, thick skin, and creativity with an understanding of wear ability. I also think that in order to be a designer you should have the knowledge of how to construct a garment from scratch. You should know the process that begins with the idea in your mind to the finished product that is ready for a client to wear.

Maytee: What's next for you?


Adolfo: I’m happy to say that I am starting to work on the fall/winter 2012 collection right now, doing the first sketches. We are also very focused on expanding the brand internationally which is a very big step, and I am looking to show my collection in NY fashion week. There are many things ahead and I am very excited to see what happens!

Maytee: Where can we purchase your Adolfo Sanchez Designs?


Adolfo: You can find them online at:

- Sicaria www.sicaria.com

- Not Just a Label www.notjustalabel.com

- Global Fashion Brands www.globalfashionbrands.com

- Vespoe www.vespoe.com


You can also find my designs in locations around California

- Novecento
8002 e coast hwy
Newport Coast, CA 92657 USA
949.715.1700

- Style Haus
7950 west sunset blvd 312
Los Angeles, CA 90046 USA
310.359.8663

- La Maison de Fashion
7471 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90046 USA
323.658.8008

- Coy Boutique
1000 Bristol Street North 12
Newport Beach, CA 92660 USA
949.200.7329

- On Que Style
2900 east coasr hwy
Corona del mar, CA 92625 USA
949.717.7795

Or visit our SHOWROOM (by appointment only)

Adolfo Sanchez
931 East Pico blvd 410-103
Los Angeles, CA 90021 USA
877.550.5258

For more info Visit http://www.adolfosanchezdesigns.com/