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Branda Ayo

EventsFashion & Beauty

NYFW Hosted A 5 Day Pop Up for Fashion Lovers

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

To celebrate the start of a new fashion week in New York,  NYFW Backstage launched its 5-day pop-up for fashion enthusiasts. The multi-day event ran from Friday, February 9 – Tuesday, February 13 at 21 Greene Street with tickets available to the public and doors opening at 11 am daily. 

At the helm of this immersive experience is Creative Director Ethan Tobman, whose artistic vision has illuminated stages around the world, including Taylor Swift’s iconic Eras Tour. With Tobman’s guidance, NYFW Backstage became more than just a showcase of fashion; but rather a canvas for storytelling. Guest had the opportunity to hear from top designers like 3.1 Phillip Lim, Eckhaus Latta, Jason Wu, and Sergio Hudson as they shared insights into their collections and creative processes. 

 

Some of the immersive activations included:

TRESemmé Style Studios

TRESemme’s expert stylists pampered guests at the DIY station with free touch-ups and styling appointments

Front Row Livestreams

This activation allowed guests to witness the excitement of designer shows live on a big screen. They got to see the latest trends and designs fresh from the runway.

IMG Models Photo Studio

IMG Models Photo Studio offered a chance for guests to have professional photos taken and leave with three images to kickstart their modeling portfolios.

The Anatomy of a Look

The Anatomy of a Look provided insights into the creative process behind runway-ready outfits. Guests explored sketches, fabric swatches, and more, gaining a deeper understanding of how fashion comes to life on the catwalk.

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Trippie Redd and Ksubi’s New Collection Passed The Vibe Check

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

Last week, Ohio native Trippie Redd and streetwear brand Ksubi kicked off New York Fashion Week at Manhattan’s Georgia Room for an exclusive preview of their highly anticipated collaboration. The 21-piece collection was modeled by fashion influencers including Giovanna Ramos, Cjay Syre, Dimitry Dino,  Elyanna Banes Sanchez, and others. Sugarhill Dot, Lola Brooke, Danzel Dion, Caylee Cowan, Michael Rainey Jr, and others were also spotted at the event.

Trippie Redd, born Michael Lamar White IV, has emerged as a formidable force in the music industry with his unique blend of melodic rap, emo influences, and energetic performances. Rising to prominence in the mid-2010s, he captivated audiences with his distinctive vocal style and boundary-pushing creativity.

As a multi-talented artist, Trippie Redd’s influence extends beyond music. He’s become known for his bold fashion choices and vibrant personality, earning him a significant following among fans of both hip-hop and contemporary culture. This fusion of music and distinctive style made the collaboration with Ksubi such a great idea. The fashion reflected Trippie Redd’s core fanbase embodying a rebellious spirit & breaking away from mainstream fashion norms.

CEO Craig King admired Trippie’s imagination, stating, “Very few artists possess the creativity and imagination of Trippie Redd. It was a great privilege for Ksubi to collaborate with him to create this unique collection for his fans and ours.”

Reflecting on the partnership, Trippie Redd emphasized the importance of self-expression, stating, “When it comes to both music and fashion, I never like to be put in a box. I express myself fully without any boundaries, which is why it made sense to link up with Ksubi. I wanted the collection to feel authentically me, and I’m excited to bring new designs to Ksubi that aren’t typically what they’ve done before and to bring that vision to life.”

The Ksubi x Trippie Redd collection, set to launch this March, will be available at Ksubi.com, Ksubi stores in major cities, and select retailer partners worldwide.

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INITIO Parfums Privés Host Launch Party In NYC for Their Newest Scent Narcotic Delight

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

The recent launch party hosted by INITIO Parfums Privés at Lume Studios in Soho was an immersive and alluring experience, perfectly complementing the unveiling of their newest fragrance, Narcotic Delight. The venue, adorned with a red-hued room and carefully curated drinks, added to the evenings mystique, creating an atmosphere that was both chic and sexy. The music enhanced the aesthetic, elevating the sense of desire surrounding the experience.The strategic perfume placements, wall art & guests added an intentional touch to the event, with an elegant presence that avoided overdone extravagance settling instead for a bold and sophisticated ambiance that captivated every attendee’s senses.hedione

Narcotic Delight is a  sensual aphrodisiac with fragrance notes of cherry, vanilla, cognac, black and pink pepper, tobacco, & an overdose of hedione. Hedione, a versatile chemical compound widely used in the fragrance industry, adds a light and sweet floral scent. Recognized for its adaptability, hedione is a key ingredient in both feminine and masculine scents. INITIO Parfums Privés takes pride in crafting perfumes that transcend gender boundaries,  ensuring a beautiful fragrance for everyone.

The Carnal Blends collection, spearheaded by Narcotic Delight, introduces a sensory journey with fragrances like

As the night unfolded, INITIO Parfums, took a moment to express gratitude to the attendees. Reflecting on the brand’s journey since its launch in 2015, they congratulated their team on the event’s success and thanked the guests for their unwavering support. At the end of the night, guest were treated to a gift of their own Narcotic Delight perfume, everything from the detail in the packaging exuded elegance. 

As a global company INITIO Parfums Privés has successfully bridged heritage and modernity, embodying quality perfumery that honors the rich tradition of French fragrances while carving its niche in the global fragrance market. Their commitment to providing a luxurious and unique experience makes them a standout presence in the realm of niche luxury fragrances.

Narcotic Delight is available to purchase on their website, Saks, and other distribution partners.

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Netflix Premieres ‘Lift’ at Lincoln Center with a Star-Studded Cast

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

Netflix premiered its latest action heist film at the Jazz at Lincoln Center in NYC on Monday, January 8. Directed by F.Gary Grey and written by Daniel Kunka, Kevin Hart who plays Cyrus Whitaker races to lift $500 million in gold along with his castmates Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Vincent D’Onofrio, Úrsula Corberó, Billy Magnussen, Jacob Batalon, Yun Jee Kim, & Viveik Kalra. Lift has been in production for a few years setting the tone for the first quarter as an original Netflix film.

In a Red Carpet interview with Netflix, Gugu Mbatha-Raw who plays Interpol agent Abby Gladwell shares that she hopes audiences will feel swept up in the film and describes it as a “fresh, fast action-thriller”.

(L-R) Yun Jee Kim, Kevin Hart, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw. Courtesy Netflix

Escapism was a central theme for the movie and the night of the premiere. While orchestrating a large-scale heist 40,000ft in the air might be implausible, bringing together a talented team and a cast that understands the story Grey and Kunka wanted to tell is critical. Creating characters that the audience can connect with is the most important aspect of filmmaking. A compelling script and great characters ensure a good movie, but having the right people in the room with the right energy completely transforms how it’s perceived. This, in turn, influences how people engage with the film and what we ultimately consume as the audience. Grey touched on this during his Red Carpet interview, expressing, ‘I want the audience to escape, be taken on a ride, enjoy the actors, enjoy the performances, and hopefully, they will.'”

 

 

 

Lift will be available to stream on Netflix January 12th

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Mino Brasserie Serves Intimate Parisian Bistro in West Village

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

Nestled at the corner of Greenwich Avenue and 12th Street, Mino Brasserie stands as a charming 65-seat French restaurant, offering a modern twist on bistro classics at an affordable price. Since its opened its doors in 2022, Mino Brasserie has been delighting patrons with memorable meals that don’t break the bank. Led by Executive Chef Gerald Barthelemy, a former Michelin-star chef with an impressive tenure at the Vernet Hotel in Paris, the restaurant brings a touch of Parisian sophistication to the West Village. 

The name Mino draws inspiration from the French slang term Minot, which translates to kid. This concept is deeply rooted in celebrating the old-school, artisanal style of French cuisine, and sharing a memorable meal with family, friends, and the community. Contrary to the misconception that French cuisine is decorative, Mino Brasserie proves otherwise. The dining experience here is not only filling but also beautifully presented, with each dish perfectly plated. Even the salad exudes style, featuring layers, a mild bitterness, and a hint of seasoning, complemented by a delightful aioli sauce that elevates each bite. The preparation of every dish left me in awe. 

Image courtesy of Mino Brasserie

Mino impresses guest by embracing authentic  French cuisine.  Food has a way of making you feel at ease and comfortable. What the French consistently excel at is infusing love, warmth, and beauty into their culinary creations—an artistic escape experienced through every meal. As Paris is often dubbed the city of love, Mino Brasserie embraces a warm and intimate setting that aligns with the city’s romantic reputation. The carefully arranged seating and overall tone create an inviting space, encouraging patrons to truly engage, savor, and fully immerse themselves. The attention to detail is evident in the high ceilings,  zinc countertops, oak wood floors, inviting tan banquettes, and ornate antique mirrors. Inspired by authentic Brasseries in France, the restaurant captures the essence of their timeless charm and culinary tradition.

Appetizers:

Burrata Des Pouilles : Traditional burrata, pear, roasted pine nuts, cherry glaze

The Burrata des Pouilles was phenomenal, with a perfect blend of flavors. While slightly heavy on the olive oil, the complexity of the dish was truly captivating. The sweet and salty combination, enhanced by strawberries and tasty mozzarella, created a harmonious symphony. The crispy crostini’s added a delightful texture, and the beautiful plating made the experience even more enjoyable. Paired with the Gewurztraminer, it was a match made in heaven.

Crevettes À L’aïoli: Grilled shrimps, aioli sauce, mixed salad.

I’m a big fan of shrimp, so when I saw it on the menu, I knew I had to try it. Grilled shrimp with aioli sauce—it sounded absolutely delicious. As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but appreciate the well-balanced seasoning and expert cooking, reflecting the care that went into making it perfect for me, the guest. Shrimp holds a prominent place in French cuisine, and it was an ideal choice to kick off the tasting at Mino Brasserie. Paired with the Gewurztraminer wine, it was a delightful combination. I have high standards for shrimp, and Mino certainly met the challenge, setting the tone for the entire evening. When the waiter brought out my plate, the fresh aroma and appealing appearance made me excited—I could tell this was going to be amazing.

Accompanied by:

The Gewurztraminer Hunawihr Alsace 2018 from France presents itself with a medium straw color.  The taste is sweetish and balanced, offering tones of lychee and mango. With medium acidity, this white wine leaves a lasting impression with its long and satisfying aftertaste, making it a great pair for my dishes at Mino Brasserie.

Main Course:

The Wild Scallops were exceptional, with a reduction sauce that was truly noteworthy. Paired with fries that were just right—thin and delightful—the scallops were skewered, not just drowned in the sauce. The layering and arrangement of flavors, including arugula salad and vegetables, created a fantastic combo. This dish is an absolute favorite, and I’m obsessed with its presentation and taste.

Sweet Finale – Crème Brûlée:

The Crème Brûlée with vanilla was a comforting dessert, featuring a sweet sugar-glazed top that cracked open to reveal a perfectly balanced French vanilla custard. It wasn’t overly sweet but exceptionally tasty and fresh. Each flavor was distinct, making it a beautiful complement to the entire meal.

Mino Brasserie is located at 225 W. 12th St⁣ and is open Tuesday – Friday: 4:30 pm – 11pm, Saturday – Sunday: 11:30 am-12 am, 11 pm* on Sundays,
and closed on Mondays. Reservations are available through Resy.

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Bohemien Bar Creates A Listening Experience for Foodies & Music Lovers

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

Visiting Bohemien Bar in Brooklyn Heights was a delightful experience. The restaurant exudes a charming, vintage feel complimenting its design and texture with floor-to-ceiling speakers at the front of the bar. The beautiful architecture and the integrated sound system struck a perfect balance, providing an enjoyable setting with a smooth ambiance that wasn’t overwhelming or noisy. When you enter Bohemien, you’re immediately drawn to the grand circular bar adorned with various drinks and wine glasses. Despite the late hour and dimmed lights, the warm lighting and natural tones create an acoustic experience adding a special touch to the ambiance.  The host shared that the restaurant had been reserved for both a wedding and a 40th birthday party that same night when we checked in letting us know that it’s pretty popular in the area.  Bohemian Bar includes two semi-private sections available for reservation, providing guests with an intimate and stylish setting for gatherings of up to 25 people. 

Image courtesy of Bohemien Bar

The space, designed by the Husband-and-Wife team, Tarek Debira,(formerly at Hotel Costesin Paris and Nobu London) and Patricia Ageheim, (formerly at Bond St. and Indochine), reflects a mid-century Scandinavian style, paying homage to Patricia’s background and heritage. This homage to Scandinavian aesthetics seamlessly integrates with the bar’s infusion of high-fidelity sound.  The custom speaker system, designed by Perry Brandston, a prominent figure known for his work across New York’s diverse entertainment spaces, enhances the overall experience. The strategically placed, hand-built speakers by Pete Raho of Gowanus Audio create a unique dining experience, allowing sound to travel without interference. With floor-to-ceiling speakers and a DJ booth curated by Tarek, featuring playlists in consultation with Shawn Schwartz of Halcyon fame, Bohemien Bar presents an immersive fusion of design and auditory delight.

Image courtesy of Bohemien Bar

For dinner, we ordered the crispy Zucchini with zaatar, paprika, and tzatziki, Fried Chicken Tacos with chipotle aioli, Mac & Cheese Bites with bacon jam, and Duck Flatbread with leeks and smoked gouda. Our absolute winners were the crispy Zucchini and Mac & Cheese Bites. Bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection, they immediately triggered a craving for more. I tend to be tough on restaurant sides, but theirs didn’t disappoint.

Turning our attention to drinks, I opted for the Smokey Moon (Mezcal, Shochu, lychee puree, yuzu juice) and Mambo No. 5 (3 Rum, apricot, almond, coconut water, spices, curry leaves, clarified milk punch). I’m always up for drink experiments, especially if recommended by the waiter. It’s a good idea to bring a friend for shared sips and to explore various options. My friend tried the Butterfly Cocktail and the popular Birdy Num Num. Bohemien Bar is renowned for its creative drink menu, adding an extra layer of delight to the overall dining experience. Dessert was a memorable affair with the Warm Chocolate Ganache Cake and Crème Brûlée Cheesecake. Both were decadently delicious, striking the right balance between rich sweetness and a hint of bitterness. A perfect way to conclude our meal – an experience worth repeating.

Bohemien Bar is located at 97 Atlantic Avenue⁣ and is open Monday – Thursday: 5 pm – 1am, Friday – Saturday: 4 pm – 2 am
and Sunday: 4 pm – 1am⁣., with reservations available through Resy.

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ElewaTv Host Their 3rd Annual Creative Chat Link-Up at Black Gotham Space in NYC

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

ElewaTv, a full service Black women owned creative agency and multi-media platform founded by Abisola Sanya, hosted its 3rd annual Creative Chat Link Up at the Black Gotham Space in South Street Seaport NYC earlier this November. With a vision of becoming Africa’s largest creative network. The women run team of makeup artists, hair stylists, set designers, PR  and creative directors are all passionate about seeing ElewaTv become a platform that builds community around emerging talent and the competitive creative industry.  

Panelist included Jean Paul Dia, Sadin Moore, Noel Camacho, Fatama Kamara, & Kobina De Graft-Johnson with host Ariel Laura facilitating questions. Each creative got the opportunity to discuss how they navigated the industry, setting boundaries, centering their faiths and community in their work, and leaning into their authentic selves to set them apart. Event sponsors included George’s Sparking Drinks and Sugarcane Restaurant in Brooklyn.

ElewaTv founder Abisola Sanya

Launched in September of 2019 Elewa, deriving its name from the Yoruba word for beauty has persisted even in the face of COVID-19 restrictions. . ElewaTv illustrates a concept needed more of in the media, fashion, and beauty industry. Historically, Black individuals have been marginalized, their beauty standards often overshadowed by prevailing norms that primarily celebrate white women. This discrepancy is particularly evident in modeling agencies, which have a deep-rooted history of favoring specific models characterized by predetermined body types and a particular skin complexion.

In response to these entrenched biases, the industry is undergoing a transformative shift with heightened awareness. There is a concerted effort to challenge and overcome issues like colorism, texturism, and body shaming. ElewaTv stands at the forefront of this movement, actively working to be more inclusive and challenge the traditional norms and perceptions surrounding beauty. By fostering a community-driven ethos, ElewaTv seeks to redefine the standards of beauty, emphasizing authenticity, diversity, and the celebration of all forms of beauty, irrespective of societal stereotypes.

Back in 2021, ElewaTv started a crowdfunding campaign Called Creatives Alike on Seed & Spark to fundraise for their 24/7 docuseries that would platform creatives across the diaspora. ElewaTv premiered episodes of the 24/7 Daily Show shot during Covid at the Creative Chat Link Up featuring Dotun Abeshinbioka, Fatamata Kamara , Clint Catul  and others. 

The resounding message echoing from the event was a call to honor oneself, nurture personal dreams, and safeguard one’s beliefs. In an industry often characterized by pressure to conform, the emphasis remained on staying true to one’s identity, embracing authenticity, and leading with unwavering faith. The panel of creatives, many of whom shared a Christian background, underscored the significance of faith as a foundational force. This grounding element serves as a compass during the unpredictable journey of the creative industry, providing clarity and resilience amid challenges that might otherwise seem overwhelming. The acknowledgment of something greater than themselves enables these creatives to maintain a broader perspective and persevere on their paths of self-determination.

When delving into the challenges creatives encounter at the outset of their journey, a recurring theme emerges. Fundamentally, the hurdles revolve around securing funding, garnering support, and finding meaningful work opportunities. This creates a sort of catch-22 scenario, where one essential element is often required to fulfill another. As the panelists highlighted, navigating this challenge may involve thinking creatively about how you engage with the space you aspire to be a part of. This might include avenues such as interning, volunteering, or even initiating your own projects to kickstart your journey. The creatives on the panel shared insights from their non-traditional paths, serving as a reminder to the audience to consistently believe in themselves and their vision.

Check out out ElewaTv’s 24/7 Daily Episodes on Youtube and a  recap of  the Creative Chat Link Up below!

 

 

 

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EntertainmentFilmMusic

Tierra Whack Partners with Hulu & Andscape to Premiere New Film Cypher In Brooklyn

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

On the evening of November 9th,  at the Bam Harvey Theater in Downtown Brooklyn. Andscape a Black run production company and Hulu partnered with Tierra Whack to premier her debut film Cypher. The atmosphere exuded a Black essence, the vibe was real and the partners understood what it meant to honor Black creativity. 

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A Mexican Courtyard Style Restaurant Opens Its Doors in Williamsburg

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

A Mexican-inspired Courtyard opened its doors to Brooklynites in Williamsburg earlier last month, inviting them to enjoy Mexican gastronomy and culture as they experience the menu for the first time. The popular food district has long been an epicenter for culinary innovation, drawing the attention of food enthusiasts from far and wide. By offering contemporary  interpretations of classic Mexican dishes, Mexi navigates the delicate balance between preserving tradition and embracing innovation.

In an ever-evolving culinary landscape, Mexi distinguishes itself through a commitment to authentic flavors, cultural immersion, and a holistic dining experience. The echoes of Mexico resound not only through the delicious dishes but also through every aspect of Mexi’s decor. Traditional tiles, hand-painted artworks by local artists, and Mexican symbolism create an environment that transports diners to the heart of Mexico. The restaurant breathes life into century-old church pews, reclaimed beams, and custom doors, which stand as artifacts of history, now repurposed for the enjoyment of patrons. Large oil paintings adorning the walls capture the essence of Mexican landscapes, agave plants, and traditional Folklorico Dance Dresses, creating a sensory journey through the country’s diverse regions. Every detail, from the Zapotec Queen-sized rug to artisan hand-painted tiles, adds texture and authenticity to the space, ensuring that Mexi remains a masterpiece in culinary immersion.

Mexi Food 

The Mexi team drew inspiration from their Mexican heritage to create a menu that pays homage to the country’s rich culinary traditions. Spearheading these efforts is Chef Zenaido Hernandez, an experienced talent from the restaurant group, with the consultation of Michelin chef Johan Svensson from Aquavit. At Mexi, everything is made from scratch, from corn tortillas to mole sauces and hand-rolled corn masa dumplings, often referred to as ‘gnocchi,’ showcasing a commitment to authenticity and quality.

  • Fire-roasted tomatillo & jalapeño salsa verde ($14):  Mexi’s salsa verde offers a flavorful and mild option that’s perfect for dipping chips. The tangy notes and smoky heat in the red salsa add depth and variety to the experience.
  • Tuna Serrano Aguachile($19): While not everyone may be a ceviche enthusiast, Mexi’s take on the Tuna Serrano Aguachile is a culinary adventure. The combination of fresh tuna marinated in a cucumber-lime broth, mixed with herbs and vegetables, results in a refreshing and delightful dish. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers.
  • Short Rib Birria Tacos ($24): These open-faced tacos feature juicy short ribs, served with their own consommé sauce, offering a deeply satisfying and richly flavored option.
  • Pork Shoulder Al Pastor ($26): An embodiment of Mexican street food, these taco skewers feature guajillo pepper-marinated pork shoulder, served in a grilled pineapple. Guests have the opportunity to create their perfect bite with complementing salsa matcha, salsa roja, and house-made tortillas.
  • Popover Churros:  For dessert, The Popover Churros, reminiscent of traditional churros, are served with dulce de leche and Mexican Chili chocolate sauces. A sweet and indulgent finish to Mexi’s menu.

Photo courtesy of Mexi

Mexi Cocktails 

Curated by Ramon Morado and Carlos Becerra, Mexi’s cocktail menu is a celebration of Mexican spirits, showcasing rare small-batch tequilas and Mexican rums. These ingredients serve as the foundation Mexi’s cocktails that draw inspiration from Mexico’s history and heritage.

  • Mexi in the City: A Mexican-inspired take on the Cosmopolitan, with colors reminiscent of the vibrant streets of Mexico.
  • El Concord: A mix of Margarita and a wine float, symbolizing the historical period when Mexico was occupied by Spain.
  • Maria Felix: Inspired by Mexican Actress and singer Maria Felix, known for receiving roses after her performances, this cocktail captures her essence with its pink and red hues.
  • Sergio Leon: Drawing inspiration from the agave landscapes in Mexico, Sergio Leon incorporates green to represent the agave plant itself, accompanied by foam as part of the fermentation process.

Mexi is located at 149 North 9th Street and is open daily from 4 to 11 p.m., with reservations available through Resy.

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