Fun Gift Ideas for The Holiday Season

Lola Digital Camera

I love digital cameras and capturing all precious moments in life! There is nothing like a vintage nostalgia feeling especially during the holidays being captured with a digital camera. I love taking photos the “old-fashioned” way and now there is a trendy digital camera that brings back that experience. Lola Digital camera is inspired by the early 2000s. It is chic, cool and fun. It comes with an SD Card and SD card adapter so you can transfer your photos straight onto your phone. You can capture up to 5000 photos.

https://lola.camera/products/lola-essentials-bundle 

Layla Kapok Pillow

I absolutely love the Layla Kapok pillow! I haven’t slept better and in so much comfort in a very long time. Unlike traditional pillows, this one can be adjusted to your needs. Everytime my face touches the pillow, I feel my whole body relax and it feels amazing. The pillow is made of high quality materials offering plush softness and support. It is filled with a unique blend of natural Kapok fibers and shredded memory foam. The Kapok pillow has a cooling cover infused with copper fibers, known for their cooling properties and antimicrobial benefits. It is also hypoallergenic and eco-friendly.

https://laylasleep.com/product/kapok-pillow/ 

The Sleepmaxxing Bundle - Silk Pillowcase & Sleep Mask Set by Mulberry Park Silks

If you are looking for an elevated luxurious sleeping experience, I recommend the Silk Pillowcase and Sleep Mask Set by Mulberry Park Silks. The silk feels amazing on the skin and it levels up the sleeping experience. The set includes a 100% mulberry silk pillowcase and a signature plum sleep mask to support your nightly goals. This fun set can help with restorative sleep, skin wellness, and hair health. The material also protects hair from breakage and is hypoallergenic and non-irritating to the skin. I always say it is worth investing in your beauty sleep. 

https://mulberryparksilks.com/collections/22-momme-silk-pillowcases/products/22-momme-white-silk-pillowcase-plum-silk-sleep-mask 

Freaks of Nature Everyday Endurance Deodorant

I am always looking for a deodorant that feels good on my sensitive skin, smells fresh and leaves me dry for an extended period of time. I finally found one and that is Freaks of Nature's Everyday Endurance Deodorant, which works with your microbiome to stop odor at the source while letting good bacteria thrive. It has a 48-hour protection, all-day wetness control, and zero baking soda or aluminum. It is also lightweight and skin-friendly. It is available in four different scents - Santal Dune, Bergamot Canyon, Cedar Peak and Fragrance Free. My favourite is the Fragrance Free one. 

https://freaksofnature.com/products/everyday-endurance-deodorant?variant=51965101670705 

IN DREAM Herbal Sleep Formula and IN PEACE Herbal Stress Formula

Stress is part of my everyday life so I am always on the lookout for herbal supplements that can help me feel more at ease, relaxed, calm and energised. At night, I need my restful sleep so any supplements that can help me fall asleep easier are essential for me. I found great tasting and very effective supplements in the form of a dissolvable powder, IN DREAM and IN PEACE formulas. IN DREAM is a fast-acting herbal formula crafted by a licensed herbalist to help you unwind, fall asleep naturally, and wake up feeling restored. IN PEACE is a fast-acting herbal powder crafted by a licensed herbalist with 9 adaptogenic botanicals to help you stay grounded, focused, and emotionally balanced through everyday stress.

https://intotalwellness.com/ 

Noctera Hormonal Supplements

Being in my forties, my hormones tend to be all over the place sometimes. Finding a supplement that can help balance my hormones is so important. Noctera is a hormone-free, prescription-free supplement designed to improve sleep quality and duration in women impacted by hormonal changes. Noctera is a drug-free dietary supplement. Its formula is non-sedative and is designed to support sleep without next-day grogginess, while remaining safe for daily use.

https://hellobonafide.com/products/noctera 

Make Time Wellness Supplements

I absolutely adore supplements that combine both taste and aesthetic in one. I tried Make Time Wellness Rhodiola blend gummies and the Brain, Body and Drink Powder. The packaging is super cute and the taste is great. Co-founded by two advocates for women's wellness, Emma Heming Willis and Helen Christoni, Make Time Wellness is an all-in-one brain health supplement brand designed to help improve brain fog, exhaustion, and fatigue in women through science-backed nutrition. They also help raise awareness for Women’s Brain Health and give back 5% of sales to Alzheimer's support through Hilarity for Charity!

https://maketimewellness.com/ 

Mainelove Sparkling Water

Staying hydrated is so important for your health. That’s why when I found water that tastes great and has different flavours I was so excited. Mainelove is a sparkling water that comes from my favourite state, Maine. The creators of it had a simple idea: take something that Maine has in abundance – pristine water – and share it in a way that supports our neighbors, protects the planet, and sends a little love to everyone. Their water flows from Sebago Lake, surrounded by deep forest that acts as a natural filter. Mainelove is packaged in 100% recyclable cans, which helps keep the waters crisp and clean.

https://mainelove.com/ 

GRAND KYIV BALLET PRESENTS THE MAGIC OF SWAN LAKE: SYMPHONY OF LIGHTS IN CHICAGO

 

On Oct.1 at the Athenaeum in Chicago Grand Kyiv Ballet delivered a magical ballet performance of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake: Symphony of Lights. The 2-hour long ballet performance featured beautiful ballet dancers, magical music, vivid light designs and illuminated costumes that left a memorable experience for the viewers.

 “We’re especially proud of the new swan tutus, which were created by Ukrainian artisans during an incredibly difficult time,” said Oleksandr Stoianov, Founder and Artistic Director of the Grand Kyiv Ballet in a press release. “They represent the talent and resilience of Ukrainian artists who continue to create, even in the face of war. Bringing these costumes to audiences in Chicago is a meaningful part of sharing not only our ballet, but also the spirit of Ukraine.” 

 This new production of Swan Lake brings the classic story to life through light, movement, and music, with each act designed as a living art installation that blends timeless ballet tradition with contemporary visual design. Known for its exquisite choreography, emotional depth, and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score, the ballet remains one of the world’s most cherished stories of love, betrayal, and redemption. 

 The Grand Kyiv Ballet is a professional Ukrainian ballet company under the direction of Artistic Director Oleksandr Stoianov. The company has toured internationally and throughout the United States, sharing Ukrainian ballet with audiences worldwide while showcasing the resilience and artistry of Ukrainian dancers.

The next performance is scheduled for Oct.14 at the Harris Theater in Chicago. 

Buy tickets here: https://www.harristheaterchicago.org/performance/swan-lake-symphony-lights

16th Governors Awards in Hollywood

 

Photo courtesy of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences 

The Board of Governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences held the 16th Governors Awards at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Hollywood, Los Angeles, on Nov.16. 

Honorary Awards were presented to Debbie Allen by Cynthia Erivo, Tom Cruise by Alejandro González Iñárritu and Wynn Thomas by Octavia Spencer. The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award was presented to Dolly Parton* by Lily Tomlin (*Governors Award acceptance recorded in Nashville). The awards, which are all Oscar® statuettes, were voted on by the Academy’s Board of Governors this past June. This event was produced by Oscar-nominated producer Jennifer Fox and hosted by Will Arnett, with a welcome by Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor. 

The 16th Governors Awards are supported and presented in partnership with Rolex, the Exclusive Watch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Michelle Danner talks new movie, The Italians

Film director Michelle Danner is releasing “The Italians,” a quirky dramedy about family, love, and tantalizing Italian cooking. “The Italians” shows the Vitali Family, an Italian-American family, as they meet their son's new fiance who is decidedly not Italian. 

Director Michelle Danner says: “This is a deeply touching story about loving family, forgiving family and irresistible Italian food.” “The Italians” is Danner’s eighth directorial project following on the heels of her latest success, “Miranda’s Victim,” which was released last fall and told the incredible true story about the creation of the Miranda Warning after the brutal assault on 18-year-old Patricia Weir. 

A renowned acting teacher and co-founder of the Creative Center for the Arts (formerly known as Edgemar Center for the Arts) and the Los Angeles Acting Conservatory, Danner’s list of students has included Christian Slater, Salma Hayek, Gerard Butler, Seth MacFarlane, Penelope Cruz, Chris Rock, Gabrielle Union and Zooey Deschanel.

"The Italians" premiered at the ITALIA Los Angeles Fashion and Art Festival in March where Danner was awarded Best Director, and has since screened at the Cinequest Film Festival, the San Luis Obispo Film Festival, and the prestigious Ischia Global Film Festival where it had its international premiere. Its other accolades include Best Actress for Kazan at the Nevada Women’s Film Festival, Best Actress for Breslin and Best Director at the Seattle Film Festival, Best Film at the Berlin Indie Film Festival, Best Film at the Los Angeles International Film Festival, Best Feature Film at the Paris Play Film Festival, and the Award of Excellence and Outstanding Achievement at the Accolade Film Festival. The film released on April 10th, 2025 on Amazon Prime Video, Apple, Google Play, and Vudu.

Watch my interview with Michelle Danner here:

Innovative Eyewear Brand NEVEN to Launch New Line of High-Quality, Affordable Prescription Glasses in Partnership with Manufacturer Robertson Optical Laboratories, Inc.

 

MELBOURNE, FLA. – May 21, 2024 – NEVEN, an innovative and high-quality yet affordable eyewear brand inspired by the palindrome "Never Odd Or Even," is pleased to announce that in response to demand, it is launching a new line of prescription glasses. Working in partnership with respected longtime Atlanta, Georgia-based laboratory Robertson Optical Laboratories, Inc., the largest independently owned and operated Optical Wholesaler in the United States, NEVEN will offer 396 design options within the collection. A revolutionary eyewear company, NEVEN is disrupting the industry with its unique blend of fashionable products, customer satisfaction and affordability. It offers modern, minimalist designs to timeless classics. Kicking off the new line are 66 different frame styles, and six different lens colors: clear, black, brown, coastal blue, rose-pink and silver.  

Robertson Optical Laboratories meticulously crafts the high-powered lenses to suit individual needs. The cutting-edge manufacturing process leverages the latest advancements in material science and technology to produce lightweight, durable frames crafted with upgraded TR90 material. All NEVEN sunglasses come with polarized lenses, anti-sea water coating and oleophobic coating, to assist with optimal performance and longevity. Upgrades are available for all prescription frames and lens colors at an additional cost. These include: Polycarbonate lens for impact resistance (coastal blue, rose-pink and silver lens colors come pre-upgraded with polycarbonate lens for free). High index lens to make lenses thinner and lighter. Anti-reflective coating to combat glare from computers and TV screens, as well as night lights while driving. Polarized lens providing superior protection against the sun’s natural glare for outdoor adventures. Clear lens blue light protection. Prescription limits NEVEN accepts are: +6.00 to -5.00 +6.00 to -8.00 +5.00 to -5.00 Pricing for single-vision eyewear starts at $99. NEVEN also accepts HSA (Health Savings Account) funds as a payment method as prescription glasses are a qualified medical expense. Eyewear is available for purchase at https://neveneyewear.com/. 

Following the launch, NEVEN will unveil three additional lens colors for prescription glasses, bringing the design options to a total of 594. “We’re very excited to launch our new line of affordable prescription eyewear,” said Jonathan Strauss, CEO of NEVEN Eyewear. “Through our partnership with Robertson Optical Laboratories, we are looking forward to combining our strengths and offering our customers prescription glasses with a wide variety of design options ensuring there is something for everyone.” 

NEVEN recommends having the prescription checked by an eye care professional every one to two years, or as recommended by an eye doctor. Regular eye exams help ensure that the prescription is up to date and that any changes in vision are promptly addressed. If individuals need adjustments or repairs for their glasses, they can visit a local optician or eyewear professional for assistance. About NEVEN Eyewear: NEVEN Eyewear is an innovative and high-quality yet affordable eyewear brand providing stylish and functional sunglasses, prescription eyewear, blue light glasses and accessories. Inspired by the palindrome "Never Odd Or Even," it is based on a mission to encourage customers to explore new horizons, no matter how they get there.” NEVEN Eyewear is based in Melbourne, Florida. 

For more information, visit https://neveneyewear.com/ or check out NEVEN at https://www.instagram.com/neveneyewearofficial, https://www.tiktok.com/@neveneyewear, https://www.facebook.com/neveneyewear/ and https://twitter.com/neveneyewear. 

About Robertson Optical Laboratories, Inc.: Founded in 1958 by Jack Robertson, Robertson Optical Laboratories is the largest independently owned and family-operated optical wholesaler in the U.S. Its full-service lens manufacturing facilities employ the most innovatively advanced processing software and equipment. For more than 66 years, Robertson Optical has been a beacon of excellence and independent integrity within the optical industry. For more information, visit http://www.robertsonoptical.com/. 

Maui awaits...Wailea Resort is Open for Tourism

Maui, Hawaii

Aloha, 

A few spots leave an internal mark on your heart and soul. The Maui island is one of those special destinations for me. In April, I spent an unforgettable time exploring the beaches and beautiful sights of the island together with my daughter. We loved looking at the rainbows, burning red, pink, and blue sunsets, crystal clear blue waters, unique flowers, trees, and warm sands. We stayed at Ka’anapali and spent time exploring Lahaina and its shops, history, and liveliness while whale watching in the middle of the deep blue waters. We spent our time gazing towards the sun, dreaming, feeling inspired, full of energy, and happiness, while filling our lungs with the sweet smell of flowers. We took a fun road trip to Hana amazed by the vegetation on the way, unforgettable beautiful beaches, and water sights. We returned rejuvenated and excited, ready to live life to the fullest. 

Ka'anapali Beach, Maui

Ka'anapali Beach, Maui

Lahaina, Maui

Little did we know that months later, a tragedy would hit our beloved destination in Maui. Lahaina burnt to the ground leaving people without homes, jobs, and buildings in ashes, spreading death, fear, and pain. My heart hurt deeply for the island as I watched it burn in flames on the news. I cried remembering how many happy memories my daughter and I had there leaving a distant memory from the past embedded in my heart forever. As the months went by after the tragedy, I was happy to see how strong the island and its people were and how they fought for their land and homes. Maui was not to be forgotten but to be to be rebuilt once again. But we all have to do our part in helping the island rise from the ashes. 

Lahaina, Maui

I wanted to do my part and help bring back visitors to the island. I wanted to remind people and tourists that the tragedy doesn’t define Maui - it only makes it stronger and that much more precious. There are parts of the island that remain untouched, unseen, beautiful, and ready to be explored. Maui offers visitors an opportunity to welcome them in other areas so that its economy gets stronger, and better and more island people can go back to work. 

Black Sand Beaches, Maui

Hana, Maui

I had the opportunity to learn in a meeting with Lori Machimoto and Kathleen Costello that one of those precious spots welcoming its doors to tourists is in Wailea. Both Machimoto and Costello wanted to remind visitors that Maui is open and that one way we can all help is by boosting the island’s economy so that more jobs can become available to the island people. Wailea offers tourists a more luxurious and authentic experience with beautiful beaches and sights. The Wailea Resort contributes towards the environmental protection, sustainable practice, and community welfare of Maui while employing more people from the island. 

Wailea Resort spans the emerald slopes of the Pacific offering views of the islands of Kahoolawe, Lana’i, and West Maui, along a beautiful mountain setting. It is situated 17 miles away from Maui’s airport. According to Machimoto, Wailea is the leading luxury resort destination in the state of Hawaii that includes hotel brands such as Four Seasons, Fairmont, Waldorf Astoria, and Relais & Châteaux. It is also home to some of Maui’s top employers, so with the recent devastating wildfires, visitors are encouraged to return soon. Some of the ways Wailea continues to prioritize sustainability in Maui is by supporting responsible tourism, reusable water bottles, recycled cooking oil converted to biofuel, landscape with drought-resistant plants, and local sourcing for meat fish, among others. 

If you want to explore Maui and Wailea, you can learn more here: 

https://wailearesortassociation.com 

@waileamauihawaii 

Mahalo!

Interview with Chicago Actor and Influencer Andre Bellos

 Check out my latest interview with Chicago actor and influencer Andre Bellos: 

"Blueback" - a Visually Stunning Masterpiece for All Senses

One of the films I had the chance to see at the Sundance Film Festival is "Blueback." Its captivating water imagery, sea animals, stunning views of the reef and emotional scenes made it a gem that has to be seen and remembered by many. It is a stunning film to experience both visually and emotionally. My favorite part was the special bond between the mother and her daughter and how the film revolves around their deep bond with the sea and each other. 

"Blueback" is based on Tim Winton’s 1997 novella of the same name. The film stars Mia Wasikowska, Radha Mitchell, and Eric Bana. The film is also geared towards kids making it the perfect family film. 

Synopsis:

While researching Australia’s deteriorating coral reefs, marine biologist Abby receives word of her elderly mother Dora’s stroke. As she rushes to her seaside hometown to care for Dora, Abby recalls her childhood years spent living in concert with the ocean, and her mother’s efforts to protect the bay from greedy developers and invasive fishermen alike, often to the detriment of their own relationship. Among the coral gardens, Abby also befriends a rare fish, the blue groper — affectionately named Blueback — a tether to her environmentalism, and the key to reminding Abby and Dora of their love for each another and the vulnerable waters they call home. 

 The film opens wide theatrically on February 24 by Quiver Distribution. 

Sundance Film Festival 2023 - It's a Wrap!

This year was special for the Sundance Film Festival because it was the first year in two years since the Covid-19 pandemic that the festival took place in person. In addition to attending press lines and meeting some of my favorite celebrities like Debby Ryan and Anne Hathway, I had a great time celebrating films with friends for the short weekend I attended (Jan 21-22). 

What I absolutely loved about the festival this year was the great selection of films, the different and exciting sponsor events, as well as the beauty of Park City that I had missed so much. It is only during this time of year that I get to find my perfect place with friends, parties, celebrities, mountains, and film in one!

I stopped by Audible to find out a breathtaking view of the Park City's mountains as well as colorful booths that actually matched my pink jacket. I had a custom Binnie made at the Shore Club. But most of all I had fun celebrating the festival with actors and directors at the LatinX House, as well as journalism colleagues at the Neo Lounge hosted by Ericka Nicole Malone and featuring live music with Angie Stone. I also attended a VIP party hosted by Funny or Die Entertainment at an amazing mountain resort. This year the Cannon studio didn't disappoint as well. 

It was a warm, fun, and extraordinary experience I will not forget! See you next year Sundance!

Actress Yelena De Leon

Josefina Lopez

Cultured Focus Magazine team

Angie Stone

Ericka Nicole Malone

Actress Meagan Good

Funny or Die's Henry R. Munoz III