Posts tagged Inspired
Musings of a Communications Agency
Inspired: Create ideas
Today we are inspired by information share.
“Advice is subjective. But, by passing on advice in a creative way, it is possible to create something that lasts, that people will want to live with and which can let the advice sink in slowly and help out later on.”
(Source)
Inspired: Jericho park
Today we are inspired by our recent trip to Vancouver this March. Vancouver is captivating mostly because of it’s beautiful views and unparalleled fresh mountain air.
For a great view of the city take the sky train just as the sun sets!
Inspired: Faulhaber Book Club
Welcome to the Faulhaber Comm unofficial book club. Here is a list of notable 2012 reads that made us laugh, cry, feel inspired, and share with our friends. Behold the best quotes, ideas and experience that came from our extra circular reading.
Chasing Cool by Noah Kerner
The story about how brands became cool. The idea that cool is more than just a state of mind and the way that affects how we interacting with products. It uncovers universal patterns of trends and what makes certain brands stand out. We found out it is so much more about the product than it is about the campaign.
The Garden of Eden by Ernest Hemingway
“He was completely detached from everything except the story he was writing and he was living in it as he built it.”
The Eternal Husband by Fyodor Dostoevsky’s
Very inspirational, extends the dialogue, new ways of approaching literature, tough read but takes you into another world. His best novella, explores human relationships and human drama in the 1800s of Russia, known as a dramedy story.
Cruel Optimism by Lauren Berlant
“A relation of cruel optimism exists when something you desire is actually an obstacle to your flourishing.”
Just Kids by Patti Smith
Patti Smith’s beautiful book about her youth with Robert Mapplethorpe, who she calls “the artist of my life,” is a celebration, an elegy, a memoir, and a fascinating slice of life of New York City from the late ’60s and ’70s
Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson
Steve Jobs asked for no control over what was written and did not want to read it before it was published. Legendary man.
Elegant & Inspired Indian Cuisine by Vikram Vij
Vikram Vij who is my absolute favourite chef and restauranteur in Vancouver has a great cookbook. Is it the most difficult read? Clearly not, but it has inspired me to get creative in the kitchen and off to market on Saturday’s hunting for the freshest of ingredients, herbs and spices. His suggested wine pairings are bang on and I am hoping the fengugreek curry lamb popsicles will propose any day now. It transports me to Vancouver with every bite whenever I feel homesick.
Mad Women by Jane Maas
It’s about Jane Maas’ (who’s best known for directing the I Love New York campaign) time working at Ogilvy & Mathers (the ad agency) in the 60s – king of a real life Mad Men story. She talks about the sexism in the workplace and her challenges & successes as sort of this strong, powerful woman working in the male-dominated (at the time) world of advertising. It’s interesting & funny, and was really inspiring – all of the women I look up to in a professional capacity are like her, breaking down barriers for themselves and climbing their way to the top through hard work & proving themselves, rather than finding, ahem, “shortcuts” to get where they want, which was all too common in her day.
Inspired: Insight of an Intern
In the world of media & communications, interns are an integral part of any team, whether it be corporate, non-profit or agency. While they may not be taking on the biggest of jobs, they play a large role in making sure all of the little things don’t fall through the cracks. The tasks of an intern can range far and wide - pulling samples to send to a magazine, writing a first draft press release, or ensuring coffee is ready for an important client meeting can all fall under the intern’s job description. It may not always be glamorous, but the experience is always invaluable and there is always something new to learn.
With PR’s fast and furious nature, though, it’s easy to get discouraged as an intern. Mistakes are made, tasks can seem monotonous, and you may find yourself doing several before landing a job. It’s important to recognize the value of an internship, though, and be able to put a positive spin on whatever the day brings in order to make the most of it.
Keep a few things in mind to maximize the experience:
1) Learn from your mistakes. You will make mistakes. Some may be bigger than others, but it’s important to see them for what they are – mistakes. Don’t dwell on them, learn from them. Ensure you understand your mistakes so as not to make them again. You don’t want to be the intern who’s 8 weeks into an internship making the same errors over & over!
2) Always have a pen & paper on you (or very close by). You will take lots of notes. Every time you’re given a task, record every nuance of information to ensure you can complete a task. Take notes on observations, things you’ll need to remember, questions you plan to ask, and so on. Don’t rely on your memory too much to get you through the day.
3) Take advantage of the opportunity to network. Internships are an incredible way to get your name out there and meet new professionals in your industry. Be sure to get to know the names of key players, and (assuming the time & place is appropriate) introduce yourself at events. Use social media tools like LinkedIn and Twitter to connect with people online after an introduction - you never know who you’ll be pitching one day, or who might have a job opportunity for you.
4) Don’t get hung up on money (or lack thereof) – Most internships will be unpaid. Some offer stipends or honorariums to cover expenses such as transportation, but don’t count on it. If you’re willing to sacrifice a paycheck, your chances of landing a great internship will be better. It’s important to remember that internships are of value to you, as companies that offer internships are essentially giving you a unique form of free education. We all have to pay our dues, and sometimes that means working part-time jobs to keep afloat & get the experience necessary to launch our careers.
This list is not exhaustive - it can go on and on when it comes to advice for internships. The important thing? Go in with a positive attitude, an open mind and a willingness to learn, and the experience of an internship (or multiple) will be an amazing, fruitful and exciting one.
GET THE LOOK: Naomi Watts
People’s Choice Awards
Naomi Watts - Oscar nominee for best actress
Get the look
Ted Baker London Haylei pale pink gown, $805 cdn
Welcome to The Happy Show
The Design Exchange officially opened The Happy Show last night by hosting one of its notoriously cool and stylish parties. The room quickly filled up with smiles and laughter as artist, Stefan Seigmeister guided guests through the show. Here are some of our favourite looks and smiles from last night! The Happy show is now open until March 3rd at the DX. BUY TICKETS HERE.
(Photo credit: Katherine Holland)
Pointers: You VS. Sugar
Heather Vounnou, Training Manager and Skincare expert at Dermalogica comes to us from Australia and currently holds reigns at the International Dermal Institute in Toronto, Ontario. To help prep your skin for the changing seasons, Heather has put together some tips and tricks using some of her favorite products.
Sugar, your Skin and in the Silly Season!
The holidays are over, the party season as subsided, and the chocolates and champagne have been devoured, you must be wondering… how did all this sugar affect my skin?
Researchers have discovered that sugar consumption leads to a rapid rise in blood glucose levels, which triggers a series of biochemical reactions in the cells that cause inflammation and Glycation. This ultimately leads to accelerated aging of the body. High Glycemic Index foods (such as simple carbohydrates) will increase the body’s sugar levels rapidly whereas low glycemic index foods will increase the body’s sugar levels slowly. Examples of high glycemic foods are cookies, cocktails and soft drinks.
What is Glycation?
Glycation in the skin occurs when blood sugar levels rapidly rise and sugar molecules attach to Collagen. Once sugar bonds with Collagen, the process of “Glycation” takes place, and produces harmful molecules which undermine the skin’s internal scaffolding, weakening its strength and turgor. With the repetitive attack of sugar to the skin, fine lines and wrinkles will eventually start to manifest and the skin will take on a more fragile and flaccid appearance! YIKES!!! How much you can tolerate before glycation occurs depends on your age, metabolism and how much you exercise. If you’re an active 25-year-old, your body can tolerate more sugar than if you are a sedentary 35-year-old.
Give me a break!
The good news is if you change your ways and start to reduce the amount of sugar in your diet, then you should quickly see benefits manifesting on the surface of your skin. The aim should be to ensure that high Glycemic Index foods make up less than ten percent of your total diet.
Different types of alcoholic drinks contain varying amounts of carbohydrates. For example, beer and sweet wine are both high in carbohydrates. Because your body breaks down carbohydrates into sugar, you need to monitor the carbohydrates you consume, including carbohydrates from alcohol. Distilled alcoholic beverages such as vodka and tequila contain the fewest amount of carbohydrates and, therefore, provide the best option. If cocktails are your drink of choice, use sugar-free mixers. Consume your beverage slowly with a non-caloric drink on the side, such as soda water.
The results you achieve from your dietary changes will be further accelerated by making sure you use skin care formulations that fight the effects of sugar from the outside in. Skin care products rich in anti-inflammatory ingredients and sugar trapping cosmeceuticals such as Arginine Lysine Polypeptide are a definite must have!
Try to repair existing damage by using ingredients that can stimulate the skin to produce more collagen. Examples of ingredients with collagen stimulating capabilities include:
• Hydroxypenacolon Retinoate, a new, non-irritating form of Vitamin A
• Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, a stabilized form of Vitamin C
• Palmitoyl Hexapeptide 14, a small amino acid chain molecule that stimulates the fibroblast cell into action.
And if you simply can’t help but give in to those sugary cravings, then try some fresh strawberries dipped in 90% dark chocolate, which has a substantially lower glycemic index and is considered by some to be an antioxidant “super food!”
Go: London’s Must-See Fashion Exhibits
Although, Truc Nguyen is not new to The F Drive, she is our new travel buddy! Truc joined forces with Faulhaber to travel half way across the world to London UK for the THOMAS SABO SS13 launch event.
As one of the cultural centers of the world, London always has a lot going on. If you are lucky enough to find yourself in The Big Smoke in the next few months, as I was recently, make sure that you pull yourself away from Harrods long enough to check out these three cultural exhibitions currently on show. You won’t be disappointed.
At Somerset House until January 27
This free exhibition at Somerset House walks us through many of the iconic fashion photographer’s favourite works, and reveals the intriguing back story behind each series. Every Tim Walker photo is a work of art, and this masterful exhibit gives the viewer an intriguing glimpse at the creative process behind each image. Touching quotes from Walker line the walls the of the intimate gallery space, while memorable props such as a cartoon airplane and an oversized doll help put the photos in context.
At the Victoria and Albert museum until January 27
The V&A ambitiously bills itself as “the world’s greatest museum of art and design,” and with blockbuster exhibitions such as Hollywood Costume in place, it may very well reach that goal soon enough. Cleverly incorporating text, videos and a bewildering selection of the most memorable costumes that have appeared on film, Hollywood Costume is a treat for the senses. Whether your favourite movie is Harry Potter or Breakfast at Tiffany’s, this exhibition is your unprecedented chance to see the wardrobe highlights from each film up close and personal.
The Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize 2012 At the National Portrait Gallery until February 17
This last pick is not a fashion exhibition per se (although there are some fashion photos on display), but I’ve always held a soft spot for London’s National Portrait Gallery. The 60 photographs on display showcase a compelling slice of contemporary British culture alongside an excellent serving of international portraiture. The intimate works are from a mix of amateurs, students, and professional photographers, and place everyone from artist Ai Weiwei to anonymous slum-dwellers in their focus.
Inspired: Gifts that Give Back
What is the perfect gift? One that gives back to a charity or a good cause, of course! Look no further Faulhaber has some great ideas for everyone: the host/hostess, mother, best friend, whom ever you are looking for.
National Bank Breakfast Clubs of Canada Cookies – “A donation that’s good enough to eat” – Support Breakfast Clubs of Canada, who feeds almost 120,000 children every day. This gourmet cranberry cookie-filled tin can also be used after one is done munching – it turns into a piggy bank for saving. Available at National Bank branches across Canada for $5.00, from November 19th to December 31st 2012
joinFITE Bullets to Bracelets - “What was once intended to create harm, is now bringing hope and new life” – These bracelets have been made by a group of HIV positive female artisans in Ethopia from bullet casings, transforming the lingering signs of conflict and war into wearable signs of hope. In support of joinFITE, the Dermalogica initiative that empowers women with financial independence, they are available for purchase at Dermalogica.ca for $10.
EQ3 Generation Art - 15-30 year olds across the country were challenged to create original art depicting their interpretation of the theme Imagine…A Better Community. The art of nine selected winners have been transformed into the limited edition Generation Art product line, featuring upholstered home décor accessories and paper items like notebooks and posters. All proceeds are reinvested in Michaëlle Jean Foundation (FMJF) youth initiatives. Available at www.eq3.com and EQ3 store locations
THOMAS SABO Charity Bear Charm: All the proceeds from the sale of this pendant go to THOMAS SABO Foundation children’s charity projects, $79.00. Available at www.thomassabo.com
GO: Sip, Soak and Savour in Napa Valley
We’re no strangers to the rolling hills of Napa. The world acclaimed wineries, breathtaking views, Michelin star-rated restaurants, and luxurious spas keep us coming back for more.
Where we stayed…
It’s no surprise that Solage Calistoga is a haven for celebrities and A-listers worldwide. The artful oasis boasts interiors replete with natural materials, its very own Michelin-starred resto and a killer spa. Mint-scented turn down water and a very sexy shower for two made this a must-return hotel. The cutest duo of touring bicycles parked outside of our “cottage” didn’t hurt the ahhhhhhhhhh factor.
Where we soaked…
In the ‘healing geo-thermal waters’ at Spa Solage, after experiencing the ‘Solage Signature Mudslide’. Spa Solage definitely lives up to its title of Conde Nast’s Number one spa in the Americas and the Caribbean.
Where we sipped and savoured…
Michelin Star-rated Solbar, offers California Soul Food inspired by fresh locally grown, seasonal ingredients. In addition to the delectable culinary offerings, the space includes an outdoor patio where you can dine by the warmth of a fire pit while taking in the spectacular views.
The Wine Spectator Greystone Restaurant in St. Helena is one of the three restaurants of The Culinary Institute of America. Its elevated location makes it one of the best places to savour delicious slow braised short ribs, while taking in views of the valley with a glass of wine.
If you’re looking for home grown flavours, Zazu restaurant and farms prides itself in its American classics and rustic Italian menu. Also on offer are limited production wines, scarcely found outside Sonoma County.
Set back in the Southern Dry Creek Valley, we also loved sipping on some flavourful Carignane at Alderbrook Winery, winner of the 2012 International Wine competition.
The perfect recipe for a heavenly getaway. Till next time Napa!
