Monday, July 18, 2011

The Boys of Summer

You’re invited to Joshua McVeity’s Hotel Room! The Vanhattan-based fashion photographer who has worked in Calgary, New York and Australia, debuts his first Vancouver photo exhibition depicting pretty boys being boys in hotel rooms. Imagine Abercrombie eye candy behind closed doors. Fittingly titled Hotel Room, his large-format limited edition prints will be on public display for one night only at the OPUS Hotel before they take up residence in several of the OPUS Hotel’s designer suites. Joshua McVeity’s Hotel Room, Jul 21; OPUS Hotel; 7-10pm; www.joshuamcveity.ca



About the Show
The hotel room is used as a stage in which you are placed in the position of voyeur. Various stories made up by McVeity. Models selected, story telling directed, fantasies played out. These boys show obsessions and refuse elucidation. McVeity’s imagination shares these private moments. In some pieces the models are simply allowing you to watch and in others more demanding on the viewer. Known for his use of natural light combined with his “hands off” approach during a shoot, the result is an honest and spontaneous look. These boys share moments of a story that leave a lot to the viewer.
McVeity has assembled together 7 pieces for his first solo photographic exhibition in Vancouver. Following the opening night reception McVeity’s works will be displayed in various rooms of the Opus Hotel Vancouver during the North American OUT Games and Vancouver Pride.

About the Artist
Joshua McVeity is a graduate of the Alberta College of Art and Design. Joshua received a Bachelor in Design majoring in Photography

As part of a group exhibition at The PHD Gallery in St. Louis, the show “Beyond XY” was profiled in The NY Times and STL Today

A professional photographer, Joshua’s client list includes Major Models NY, Scene Models Sydney, Mode Model International Calgary and Nous Models LA.

Joshua’s photography has been published in Pref Magazine (France), Outlooks, LOV Magazine and Xtra West. 
Joshua has been a profiled photographer by Australia’s DNA Magazine. Joshua contributes a regular style column for LOV Mag.


Sunday, June 12, 2011

Monster Roll!

Tojo bests Canucks this Sunday night

Not many people can best our beloved Canucks right now. Certainly not the Bruins. But tonight at the Tojo and Friends fundraiser for the Canadian Red Cross Japan relief efforts, a dinner  for 12 prepared by Tojo fetched $20,000 besting a framed Canucks signed jersey by all the teammates which went for $5,000.

A hundred and fifty gala-goers , the city's who's who's of Vanhattan, stuffed themselves silly with sushi at the Sunday night benefit. Tojo was quaterbacking a kitchen with his chef friends Pino Posteraro, John Bishop, Wayne Martin, Ned Bell, Quang Dang and pastry chef Eleanor Chow for the gastronomic gala of the season. Quenching everyone’s thirst was Vancouver’s top mixologists and Jay Jones (Shangri-la Market) and Dani Tatarin (Keefer Bar)
Jann Arden backstage enjoying some of Tojo's sushi

Vicki Gabereau emceed and Jann Arden and The Canadian Tenors performed at the $1000-a-ticket sushi soiree. Over 5000 pieces served, organizers hope to reach their goal of $200,000. Since the tragedy, there have been 800 Lower Mainland fundraisers for the stricken Japan region. Well done Tojo-san!
The Canadian Tenors sang for their supper

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Taste Tofino


Raising a glass at Feast BC


Stunning natural surroundings, luxury landmark accommodations and an incredible food scene, Tofino, a small, surfing and fishing village synonymous with whale and storm watching, offers the perfect Trifecta for a glorious BC Getaway.

Offering a West Coast experience in the most spectacular of settings, a burgeoning culinary scene has meant the formation of a Culinary Guild and the beginnings of a world class food and wine festival. Showcasing local attractions, producers, and chefs, FEAST BC (running until June 4) is a celebration of boat to table cuisine showcasing sustainable seafood and fresh ingredients.

Long been a draw for artists, outdoor enthusiasts and love birds wanting a romantic getaway and that proverbial long walk on the beach, the abundance of locally available sustainable seafood coupled with the sophisticated talents of individuals in the kitchen will ensure BC’s newest culinary hotspot will be an annual show stopper for foodies and outdoor adventurists alike.

Feast BC, www.feastbc.com

Stay
Set on the edge of Pacific Rim National Park on the shores of breathtaking Cox Bay, Pacific Sands Beach Resort offers the perfect spot to storm watch – right from the privacy of your own bedroom. Ocean views, cozy fireplaces and a deep soaker tub for two! From studios to fully equipped three story villas, this five-star resort is the perfect romantic retreat. www.pacificsands.com

Eat
A local fave, Shelter combines a sophisticated seasonal menu with a laid back attitude and a panoramic view at the gateway to Tofino.  Approachable, food-friendly wine list complements its fresh, organic West Coast cuisine.  www.shelterrestaurant.com

Play
Side by side Aromatic Massage at The Wick’s acclaimed Ancient Cedar Spa. A journey unlike any other, begin with a customized sensory journey, consultation, and selection of essential oils. In the most spectacular surroundings, massage technicians will skilfully restore your sense of well-being. www.wickinn.com



The Villas at Pacific Sands Beach Resort

Friday, March 25, 2011

Thursday, March 24, 2011

A Tripped Out Alice



Definately not the same old same old

Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet presents the Vancouver premiere of Wonderland. A bold reinterpretation of Lewis Carroll’s Classic Novel, the country’s beloved dance company will be taking audiences on a fun, frenetic trip down the rabbit hole. Intended for adults, acclaimed choreographer Shawn Hounsell’s creative genius has transformed the beloved children’s story into a multi-sensory experience brimming with athletic movement, spectacular visual effects, and an original electro-acoustic soundscape.  Wonderland, March 24-27, Queen Elizabeth Theatre, 604-280-3311; www.ticketmaster.ca

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Horse play!



Cirque du So Hay! Cavalia extended!!!

Under the pop up top at Olympic Village, Cavalia gallops into town. Paying homage to the intimate relationship between humans and horses, this multi-media, multidisciplinary show involves aerialists, acrobats, horseback riders, dancers, musicians, a vocalist, and 55 horses!  An extravagant spectacle of majestic leaps and acrobatics. Additional performances added til April 10. Cavalia, Mar 22-Apr 3; Olympic Village, 299 West 1st Ave.; www.cavalia.net

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Meal Deal



Harry Kambolis & Lee Humphries podium-winning plate

Fresh from their podium finish at Canada’s Gold Medal Plates competition in Kelowna, Vancouver’s renowned C Exec Chef Robert Clark and chef de cuisine Lee Humphries (representing Team BC) dazzled judges to win bronze at the coveted championship. Their winning citrus glazed Fraser Valley quail breast, with ballotine, french toast and orange gastrique is part of a five course palette pleaser offered for an incredible $55 at Harry Kambolis' acclaimed restaurant. Sommelier Kim Cyr completes the meal deal with exquisite pairings for an additional $40. C Restaurant, Team BC Gold Medal Plates Menu, 1600 Howe Street, www.CRestaurant.com

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Local actress wins big for Gunless!



Melody Choi working the red carpet like a veteran!

Fresh from the Hollywood red carpet, 10 year old Melody Choi picked up a Young Artist Award (The Oscars for young actors) for Best Performance by a Supporting Actress 10 & under in Paul Gross' Gunless filmed here in Vancouver. Up against felow actors from Blus Valentine, Tooth Fairy & Mother & Child, the Vancouver actress was nominated in three categories: Feature film Gunless; DVD Film The Search for Santa Paws and Short Film Kids Court.


When Choi heard her name announced, she bolted from her seat and ran to the stage. A smart cookie, Melody wore comfortable leather flat ballerinas just for the purpose. 

Moviegoers will be seeing much more of Melody. She is currently working on another feature film called Small Pleasures

Congrats Melody!

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Quidam



Cirque du So Gay!

Not really but Cirque's latest is another thrilling combination of acrobatics and artistry with plenty of eye candy. A cavernous Rogers Arena is transformed into a circus spectacular. Lacking the intimacy of the Grand Chapiteau at Concord Pacific Quidam still packs the usual Cirque punch. A very trippy experience, the entire show is imagined by a young girl named Zoé, a sad and forlorn girl who is alienated and ignored by her parents. She dreams up the whimsical world of Quidam in an attempt to escape her sadness. Cirque highlights for mom and I: Banquine, statue, and the clowns (she was in tears by the end of the movie skit!) Quidam, Until March 13, Rogers Arena; 604-280-4444; www.cirquedusoleil.comwww.ticketmaster.ca

Monday, March 7, 2011

JUST ANNOUNCED: RIHANNA SECOND SHOW ADDED IN VANCOUVER


SECOND SHOW ADDED

MUCHMUSIC AND THE VANCOUVER PROVINCE PRESENTS:

RIHANNA
WITH GUESTS

FRIDAY, JUNE 24TH, 2011 – SOLD OUT
SATURDAY, JUNE 25TH, 2011
ROGERS ARENA – VANCOUVER, BC
Doors:  6:30PM          Show:  7:30PM


TICKETS FOR JUNE 25TH ON SALE SATURDAY, MARCH 12TH @ 10AM

Sunday, March 6, 2011

I ♥ Nita Lake Lodge



Whistler retreat good Karma

Whistler’s Best Kept Secret is no more. Under new ownership and minutes to the village, Nita Lake Lodge, a boutique property at Whistler Creekside, offers city slickers the perfect Whistler Weekend Getaway. Large luxurious rooms with picture perfect postcard lakefront views.

Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Nita Lake’s acclaimed Aura Restaurant. Executive Chef Tim Cuff and Restaurant Chef Owen Foster bring you the best of the west serving up local comfort food with fresh herbs and veggies from their very own rooftop garden.

For good Karma, detox in the hotel’s new Ashram Spa specializing in traditional Indian Ayurvedic treatments.

Après, unwind by the fire with a pint or two and some fine charcuterie at the hotel’s Cure Lounge.

A perfect weekend retreat, my boyfriend and I never did hit the slopes : )

Nita Lake Lodge, 2131 Lake Placid Rd. Whistler, B.C., 888-755-6482, www.nitalakelodge.com


Going Commando!


KISS KISS

Rock legend Gene Simmons and his wife Shannon Tweed along with an army of 900 helped raise $1.5 million for military families.

Chaired by Dragons Den's Brett Wilson and philanthropist Warren Spitz, attendees dressed in military colours at the Operation Western Front gala. The Vancouver Convention Center was transformed into a Kandahar mess hall for True Patriot Love Foundation benefit. Proceeds from the Canadian Armed Forces fundraiser to support services and programs for military families

Friday, March 4, 2011

New Predator Shane O'Brien on the prowl



The first of One Hundred Nights

Glitter and Glam, OPUS Hotel VP Chella Levesque and Rockglass Concepts President Peter Girges welcomed former Canuck, Nashville Predator's Shane O' Brien, to the opener of One Hundred Nights. Studio 54 meets Disco Chic at the temporary pop-up One Hundred Days turned One Hundred Nights Restaurant. Synonymous with style and surprise - O'Brien joined  fellow teammates, American Rapper and music producer  Lil Jon and le beau monde at the party of the night.

Monday, February 28, 2011

Sunday, February 27, 2011

I ♥ Joshua McVeity






Rising talent

Local fashion and editorial photographer Joshua McVeity and model Nathan Cann make huge impression in LA, Miami and New York and on my couch. www.joshuamcveity.ca/

Friday, February 25, 2011

Don't Call Her Baby!



Fresh Face

Singer Kreesha Turner and local music producer Chin Injeti, fresh from his Grammy win with Eminem, headlined Kasondra Cohen's Face of Today fete at David Aisestat's Gotham Steakhouse. Proceeds to assist underprivileged youth achieve success. Turner and Injeti collaborate on Turners sophmore albulm to be released later this year. 




Following her mom Jacqui Cohen's philanthropic ways, Kasondra Cohen fronts 2nd annual Face of Today Turning Dreams into Reality Gala. www.faceoftoday.ca

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

OSCAR's BIG NIGHT



No shortage of Red Carpet romps around town this Sunday, February 27. Red carpet: 3:30pm; showtime: 4:30pm


Tri-Cities Oscar Party
Mix and mingle with the suburban-set; Coquitlam City Hall; Benefitting  Crossroads Hospice Society, Society for Community Development and SHARE Family & Community Services, $65 www.tricitiesoscarparty.com

Marquee “Feel Like A Star”
Rub shoulders with film & fashion industry insiders; Caprice Nightclub; proceeds to The Starlight Children's Foundation, $80; www.vancouverfilmevents.ca

Little Black Dress Oscar Party
Dress to impress at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver; benefitting Dress for Success Vancouver; $25;  www.dressforsuccess.org/vancouver

VIFF Oscar Par-tay!
See the Oscars on the big screen. First lady of Glam Symone to host; VIFF/Vancity Film Centre; Entrance by donation with proceeds to Out in Schools program. www.queefilmfestival.ca

OPUS Bar Oscar Party.  
Glitter and Glam!  Yours truly and Urban Rush’s Fiona Forbes to host Yaletown hootenany celebrating Hollywood’s biggest night!  www.opushotel.com

Monday, February 21, 2011

Bird-do



Hermanos Inglesos feat. MeMe - Wanderland

I ♥ Meat and Bread!



Packing Meat!

You definately won't mind this kind of meat on your bones. Using the finest local produce and ingredients, delicious man-made sandwiches can be enjoyed at this Gastown sandwich hot spot. Inspired by a carved-on-the-spot joint in Dublin where co-owners Cord Jarvie and Frankie Harrington used to share meals, the hot meats are cooked on site and served with thier signature homemade mustard. If it’s not already sold out, their mainstay Porchetta is a must. An impressive package for sure!  From the store decor to the custom leather aprons amd the hunky men who wear them, this stylish sandwich shop has it all.  Meat & Bread, 370 Cambie St; www.meatandbread.ca

Saturday, February 19, 2011

Ohhhh the drama!



Dysfunctional family fun!

Arts Club Theatre's presentation of August: Osage County this season's must-see play. Serious f&@cked-up family fun. Stellar performances from a talented ensemble cast of thirteen. www.artsclub.com

Big Hands!



Kids Score Big!

Canuck puck stopper Roberto Luongo brought his poker face to the team's annual Dice and Ice Gala. Over 700 fans gathered at the Hyatt Regency for the off-ice dinner and auction. The 40th anniversary-themed fundraiser generated $325,000 for the Canadian Autism Network and Canuck Place Children's Hospice. Canuck Place booster and poster boy Luongo reports proceeds will support the construction of a second ten-bed hospice in Abbotsford.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Oh Canada!



Show Rob some Love!

Twenty-one year old Vancouverite Rob Goddard will represent Canada in this year's Mr Gay World Pageant in Manilla, Phillipines.
The avid basketball and dancing enthusiasts also appreciates long walks in the park. World peace? But of course dahling!
The third running of Mr Gay World will be held Sunday, March 13, 2011.  The People's Choice Online Voting begins February 21   www.mrgayworld.org

Packing meat!



Gold Medal worthy if completed.

Marking the Vancouver Winter Games, Four Seasons Executive Chef Oliver Beckett brings back for a limited time his $35 Olympic-inspired burger. Boasting a generous 1 ½ pound serving of Kobe and Alberta Beef, Sautéed Chanterelle Mushrooms, Double Smoked Canadian Tyroler Bacon, Tomato Chili Jam and Agassiz Farmhouse Cheddar all nestled between a buttery Brioche Bun. To Oly's knowledge only two individuals - a man and a woman - have devoured the entire burger since introduced during the games. 

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

The Girl with the Bow Tattoo



Serious Bow Fetish

Page turner, marking her 27th birthday Rebecca Tay, former Fashion Magazine Western Editor, takes new post as Managing Editor of Interactive for Aritzia.

Monday, February 14, 2011

Rihanna makes Vanhattan stop June 24th!



Coming here rude girl, watch her get it up!

Pop music's dominatrix Rihanna gets down right rude with new North American LOUD tour. Latest dance track S&M follows #1 tracks "Only Girl” and “What’s My Name” 

Tickets on sale Feb 18th

Happy Vanentine's Day!



Here's hoping everyone gets a heart on!