INLOVE Magazine Winter 2022 Issue n. 26

INLOVE WINTER 2022

HOLLYWOOD FACES WE LOVE Paloma Garcia-Lee Rafael Cebrián Ed Quinn Diego Tinoco Olivia Ponton Jordan Fisher

THE BEST of BROADWAY

ART, BEAUTY

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FASCINATING DESTINATIONS

Chicago Come From Away HEALTH & FASHION

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DESIGNER DREAMS Dior Van Gogh Malone Souliers

NYC is back!

CELEB RATION

Old Havana Reimagined

Grand Hotel Manzana Kempinski Kempinski

LA HABANA CUBA

HOTELIERS SINSE 1897

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CONTENTS

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9 INLOVE WITH ART Immersive Van Gogh Designer Of Dreams

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A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

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CONTRIBUTORS

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INLOVE WITH FASHION Malone Souliers

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HEALTH & WELLNESS You’ve Got The Look Beautiful Smile x Happy Smile

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ENTERTAINMENT Jordan Fisher Perfect Man, Rafael Cebrian Hollywood’s Leading Man, Edward Quinn In The Name Of Love, Evan Williams

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BEAUTY Under The Influence, Olivia Ponton Self-Care is Healthcare, Glamvi

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INLOVE WITH BROADWAY Chicago 88 Come From Away 94 ELITE PERSONALITIES Passion For Beauty, Laura Grigoryan Best Buds For Daze To Come Petrushka Ball

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DESTINATIONS Outdoor Galore 116 What Happens in Curacao, Stays in Curacao 122 Modern Debut 128 Old With The New 134 Cancun, Mexico 140 COVER STORIES From Stage To Screen, Paloma Garcia-Lee The Next Chapter, Diego Tinoco

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EDITOR’S NOTE

INLOVE

Paloma Garcia

Jordan Fisher

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onton Diego Tincoo

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Olivia P

EDITOR’S NOTE

Winter 2022, ISSUE n.26

Winter.

It’s the longest and often the coldest of the seasons, but with chill and the snowfall comes the holiday season, and most treasured moments in cozy retreat of our home with the those we love and this fabulous new issue of INLOVE magazine. Who doesn’t love curling up with a winter cocktail by the fireplace, snuggling up with a blanket, indulging in good food, favorite movies, and good reads?

Gifts of time and love are surely all the main ingredients of a truly Happy Winter. The best gifts are always the gatherings with family and friends sharing love, gratitude, and hope.

Winter is a season for the holidays that has inspired plenty of art and entertainment, including some of our favorite movies, music, and people. Winter Holidays is always an inspiration to reflect on the meaningful moments of the entire year in gratitude.

INLOVE Magazine celebrates our achievements moving into the New Year and gets to the heart of the season with the ultimate “Winter Celebration” with Jordan Fisher, Olivia Ponton, Rafael Cebrián, Diego Tinoco, Paloma Garcia-Lee, and more.

Paloma Garcia-Lee, who stars as Graziella in Steven Spielberg’s big-screen rendition of “West Side Story,” takes center stage as this issue’s Main Cover. Garcia-Lee made her Broadway debut starring in “Phantom of the Opera” at 17 and has been dancing her way into our hearts ever since.

If Hollywood is consistent with one thing, it’s finding that small percentage of people who have the “it” factor. Diego Tinoco, our Man-Cover star is proof of that. The “Teen Wolf” actor just wrapped a successful four seasons starring as Cesar Diaz on Netflix’s “On My Block.”

A whole lot of exciting things are happening for our Digital Cover Star, Jordan Fisher! This handsome fellow has been charming his way into our hearts with shows like “The Secret Life of the American Teenager,” “The Flash,” and “Happily Ever After.” “Hamilton” and the movie, “Work It,” And we cannot help it, but fall in love with him over and over again.

Olivia Ponton will have us all under her influence as she steps into her power, starring as this season’s Beauty Cover.

Living in a TikTok world where Gen Z leads the way on trends, Olivia Ponton has become one influencer who has the power to change things for the better.

This new 2022 is surely out with the old, and in with the new: from new destinations to new movies and great shows to explore. New York culture and long-awaited Broadway. We got you covered with the latest beauty trends and elite events.

There’s a flow of inspiration in this new issue: fashion, beauty, wellness, entertainment highlights and the latest trends.

Photo by Anna Tim Shirt: Rag & Bone

Freshly cold air smelling of snow and pine, sparkly stars dancing around the moonlight, fills our souls with wintry night dreams. “Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.” - said Hamilton Wright Mabie.

Our Winter issue is celebration of love!

Because love is such a wonderful and beautiful gift. Love is the only thing in the world that covers up all the pain and makes someone feel wonderful again. Love is the only thing in the world that does not hurt.

Wishing peace and love to all, healthy family, and hope in every moment.

With love and gratitude, Elena Vasilevsky

ELENA VASILEVSKY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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INLOVE WINTER 2022 ISSUE #26

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Elena Vasilevsky GRAPHIC DESIGNER Silvia Gomez CREATIVE DIRECTOR Elena Vasilevsky CO-EDITORS Rose-Marie Brooks Daisy Martinez EDITOR ASSISTANT Monica Stern HEAD WRITER Sari Cohen WRITERS Sari Cohen Elle Taylor Anna Sergeeva PHOTOGRAPHERS Hector Guajiro Krissy Salrh Storm Santos Eric Johnson PRODUCTION INLOVE Media & Production MAKEUP Mayela Vazquez Kate Romanoff HAIR Martin Plascencia Yusuke Miura GROOMER Kate Romanoff Jaclyn B STYLISTS Elena Vasilevky Malyssa Lyles Janet López PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS Jan Kuhlman RETOUCHER Gureeva Retouch PRODUCER Vincent Romero PUBLIC RELATIONS INLOVE PR Agency ONLINE COORDINATOR Vincent Romero WEBSITE www.inlovemag.com e-boutique on piaget.com

CONTRIBUTORS PALOMA GARCIA LEE – COVER Paloma Garcia Lee stars as Graziella in Steven Spielberg’s long anticipated West Side Story, premiering December 10, 2021. Graziella is Riff’s (Mike Faist) girlfriend who has a torrid history with Tony (Ansel Elgort) and is often the ultimate bad girl. This new interpretation allowed Paloma to really dive into the depth and back story of her troubled character. She was recently seen on the small screen in FX’s Fosse/Verdon miniseries. Paloma is a seasoned Broadway performer who has appeared in productions of Baz Luhrmanns Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Phantom of the Opera. In her free time, she is an avid equestrian, toxophilite (archery enthusiast) and loves fashion and art. Paloma currently divides her time between Los Angeles and New York City. To read more, refer to page 148...

DIEGO TINOCO – MAN COVER Diego Tinoco stars as ‘Caesar’ on “On My Block”, season 4 will debut October 4th, 2021. In 2018, the show won the Teen Choice Award for TV Breakout Show and was Netflix’s Most Binged Show.

Diego is of Mexican American descent and currently resides in Southern California.To read more, refer to page 158...

Creative Director/Stylist Elena Vasilevsky Photographer/Videographer Hector Guajiro Makeup Mayela Vazquez Hair Martin Plascencia Cover dress by Randi Rahm

Creative Director Elena Vasilevsky Photographer Krissy Saleh Stylist Malyssa Lyles Groomer Jaclyn B Pants by Charles and Ron (Maison Privee PR) Tee Shirt by Hugo Boss All fashion looks are available at SAKS Fifth Ave., Beverly Hills

INLOVE is a Celebrity Fashion Lifestyle Magazine for Visionaries & Trendsetters Our Mission is to Connect, Elevate and Inspire GIVING BACK INLOVE continuously supports children-orphans in Ukraine through Sublimitas. Donations of all measures fund our work with charitable organization Sublimitas (501(c)(3). We support and help children in Ukraine who need love, care and education. When you purchase INLOVE magazine, you support the charity. http://www.sublimitaschildren.org

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INLOVE WITH ART

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IMMERSIVE VAN GOGH EXHIBIT IN NEW YORK WINTER 2022 |

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INLOVE WITH ART

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he Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit has officially opened at Pier 36 NYC, and it is an event you don’t want to miss. Many of these exhibits are sold out well before opening day, some have already closed, and others haven’t even announced a venue yet.

You can quite literally step into hundreds of Van Gogh’s most famous works, surrounding yourself in 360 degrees of 500,000 cubic feet projections, 60,600 frames of video, and 15,000 sq ft screens.

The Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit was imagined and created by Italian film producer Massimiliano Siccardi. Hamilton production designer David Korins signed on to add an extra wow factor, Goghing beyond the usual museum experience to create a feeling of pure awe and delight.

The installation features Van Gogh’s ingenious works such as Mangeurs de Pommes de Terre (The Potato Eaters, 1885), Les Tournesols (Sunflowers, 1888), La Chambre à coucher (The Bedroom, 1889), and of course, he Nuit étoilée (Starry Night, 1889).

One of the New York show’s most impressive features is the 75,000 sq ft waterfront space the venue is located along with breathtaking views of the Williamsburg Bridge and East River.

Everywhere you look, visitors are entirely enveloped in spectacular perspectives and a completely new take on art, spotlighting the exceptional advances of the digital age.

If you have seen Emily in Paris starring Lily Collins, you have already witnessed Siccardi’s magnificent work. Lily Collins herself has been a heavy promoter of the exhibit, emphasizing the show’s one-of-a-kind experience and unveiling the future of art as we know it.

We are INLOVE with the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit, and we know you will be too. From his bright landscapes, moody night scenes, expressive portraits, and thought-provoking still lives, this exhibit is unlike anything you’ve ever seen, let alone walked across.

Renowned Creative Director David Korins (Hamilton,

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INLOVE WITH ART Dear Evan Hansen) has created a custom design to fit the architecture of the exhibition’s New York home, adding new elements for the New York debut. These include: • THE SUNFLOWER WALL, which offers a closer look at one of Van Gogh’s most famous sub- jects and looks to create a feeling of outside, inside. Viewers will get the chance to inter- act with a textured wall of bright colors and fun, meant to evoke the familiar feeling that one is standing in a field of sunflowers.

• THE CEILING, which is inspired by Van Gogh’s masterpiece The Starry Night, was cre- ated using over 7,800 individually hung paintbrushes dipped in multiple colors.

• An oversized reproduction of a self-portrait of Van Gogh, which allows people to not only appreciate the intimacy and nuances of the work (and get a chance to look deeper into his eyes and heart), but to also give a greater understanding of his exquisite individual brushstrokes and muscularly specific way of painting.

• THE CHROMESTHESIA EXPERIENCE, which invites audiences to walk through 10 booths based on the colors most often used in his paintings. While inside the booths, the audi- ence will be immersed in a light and sound experience based on documented research of watching people with chromesthesia react to certain colors. It is generally accepted that Vincent van Gogh had a special form of synesthesia called chromesthesia in which he was able to hear color and see sound.

• LETTERS FROM VINCENT is an activation based on an artificial intelligence program cre- ated from the digital scans of over 1,000 letters Vincent van Gogh wrote to his brother Theo. The booth allows guests to ask Vincent a question and have him respond with a one-of-a-kind customized letter directly addressed to the individual. This was developed in collaboration with Technology, Humans And Taste [THAT], a creative and innovation shop based in New York City, which designs concepts, campaigns and products.

• THE POCKET GALLERY, where paint leaves the canvas and immerses participants in Van Gogh’s creative process through a surreal augmented reality experience.

• Within the exhibit, Korins will add tiered observation platforms, intricate mirrored sculptures and “secret” spaces for guests to discover as they observe the program. These elements were also developed in collaboration with THAT. Immersive Van Gogh is now open at Pier 36 (299 South St.) a 70,000- square-foot facility located on Manhattan’s Lower East Side with views of the East River, the Brooklyn skyline and the Manhattan and Williamsburg bridges. www.vangoghnyc.com Sydney Friedman Photos are courtesy of Carol Fox and Associates

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DESIGNER OF DREAMS

INLOVE WITH ART

The New York premiere of the exhibition Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams traces the groundbreaking history and legacy of the House of Dior and features unique pieces drawn primarily from the Dior archives.

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hristian Dior: Designer of Dreams explores the more than seventy-year history of the House of Dior with over two hundred haute couture garments as well as photographs, archival videos, sketches, vintage perfume elements, accessories, and works from the Brooklyn Museum’s collection. Presented in the Museum’s magnificent 20,000-square- foot Beaux-Arts Court, designed by McKim, Mead & White in 1893, Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams is based on major exhibitions held at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris, in 2017, the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, in 2019, and the Long Museum West Bund, Shanghai, in 2020.

With objects drawn primarily from the Dior archives, the exhibition includes a vast array of haute couture garments that exemplify many of the French couturier’s fabled silhouettes, including the “New Look,” which debuted in 1947, just months before Dior would travel to the United States and open the Christian Dior New York branch. With his designs widely photographed and featured in leading publications, Dior became one of the world’s most recognized names in fashion. The exhibition also brings to life Dior’s many sources of inspiration—from the splendor of flowers and other natural forms to classical and contemporary art—that would influence the designers at the House of Dior for decades. A toile room, a tribute to the Ateliers, and adjacent galleries of couture garments showcase the excellence of Dior’s petites mains. The central atrium of the BeauxArts Court has been redesigned as an enchanted garden, and a concluding gallery showcases many celebrated dresses worn by movie stars from Grace Kelly to Jennifer Lawrence.

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INLOVE WITH ART The presentation also explores the evolution of the House of Dior through the vision of its subsequent artistic directors, from Yves Saint Laurent, whose key influences included the beatniks and the 1953 film The Wild One, to Marc Bohan and his almost thirty-year reign during the revolutionary 1960s and 1970s, as well as the 1980s, when Bohan drew inspiration from Jackson Pollock. Other artistic directors’ creations include Gianfranco Ferré’s architectural designs of the 1990s; John Galliano’s reinventions of the Dior silhouettes inspired by works as diverse as Egyptian sculpture and paintings by Giovanni Boldini; Raf Simons’s own minimalist take on Dior’s original designs; and pieces by the current and first female creative director of Dior women’s collections, Maria Grazia Chiuri, who has brought a new vision to the historic fashion house. Notably, in 2016 Chiuri debuted T-shirts emblazoned with Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie!s statement “We Should All Be Feminists” and has committed to having the official images of each new collection photographed by women. As the nation’s only major museum to have galleries and a collection dedicated to feminist art—the Sackler Center—the Brooklyn Museum is uniquely suited to an exploration of Chiuri’s groundbreaking initiatives to champion women creatives.

Dior: The company was founded in 1946 by French fashion designer Christian Dior, who was originally from Normandy.

Although his parents had hopes of him becoming a diplomat, Dior was artistically inclined and began to sell his sketches on the street to make pocket money. He founded the house of Christian Dior on December 16, 1946 at 30 Avenue Montaigne Paris, backed by Marcel Boussac, a cotton-fabric magnate.

Officially, the house of Dior considers 1947 to be the year of conception as that is when Dior showed his first collection. On February 12, 1947, Dior showed his debut collection, presenting the 90 different looks. Named “Corolle” and “Huit”, the lines were quickly christened the “New Look”, a phrase coined by US *Harper’s Bazaar * magazine editor Carmel Snow. The look consisted of a calf-length, full skirt, a cinched waist, and fuller bust than had been seen since the turn of the century. A rebuttal to post-war fabric restrictions - the average dress used 20 yards of fabric - the look received some criticism upon release.

In 1949, Dior was the first couturier to arrange licensed production of his designs. Having realized the importance of the complete look - and that the New Look could not be successfully achieved without the correct Dior shoes, gloves, and hat - Dior, together with business partner Jacques Rouët, licensed his name to a range of luxury accessories. Furs, stockings, ties, and perfume were also manufactured in regional centers across the world, spreading his brand name quickly around the globe. Although this move was heavily criticized by the French Chamber of Couture - who denounced the move as cheapening the haute couture industry - licensing became a profitable move for Dior and the atelier’s lesson was followed by nearly all the period’s fashion houses.

The opulence of his designs contrasted with the grim postwar reality of Europe and helped re-establish Paris as the joyful fashion capital it had once been. The house was inundated with orders and world-famous stars such as Rita Hayworth and Margot Fonteyn bought and wore pieces, raising Dior’s

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INLOVE WITH ART profile significantly. Dior was even invited to stage a private presentation of the collection for the British Royal Family - although King George V reportedly forbade the young princesses, Elizabeth, and Margaret, from wearing the New Look in case it set a bad example at a time when rationing was still in force.

Florence Müller, Avenir Foundation Curator of Textile Art and Fashion, Denver Art Museum, says, “As early as 1947, with his celebrated ‘New Look’ collection, Christian Dior transformed his sudden name recognition into the international expansion of his House, becoming a precursor of contemporary globalized fashion. The opening of the first New York branch, in 1948, was a prelude to this worldwide fame.

“The Brooklyn Museum has a long record of recognizing important contributions in the history of fashion design, from

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The Story of Silk (1934) to the groundbreaking Of Men Only (1976) to the recent Pierre Cardin: Future Fashion (2019) and now Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams. Each exemplifies the power of fashion to influence and shift visual culture at large,” says Matthew Yokobosky, Senior Curator of Fashion and Material Culture, Brooklyn Museum. “Today, the work of Maria Grazia Chiuri has reshaped the Dior dream for a new generation, with a worldview that brings with it inclusivity and respect as key philosophical directives. We couldn’t be more excited to present these innovative, beguiling—and technically outstanding—designs to our audiences.”

September 10, 2021 – February 20, 2022 Beaux-Arts Court, 3rd Floor All photos are courtesy of Brooklyn Museum PR

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INLOVE WITH FASHION

Malone Saliers shoes

“Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world” - Marilyn Monroe

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M

ary Alice Malone, the very talented designer behind Malone Souliers, opens about her destiny to create.

Malone Souliers is rapidly becoming a highly demanded custom made-to-order boutique style shoe company. Mary Alice started her journey growing up in Pennsylvania.

A talented horse rider for the Junior Olympic Equestrian Tea, she then found that design construction was in her heart, and she moved on to art school. Through carpentry and furniture making she developed the eye for careful construction, which later translated into the tailored architecture and shapes we see in her shoes. Mary Alice and her Co-founder and fellow Managing Director, Roy Luwolt, are behind the label which speaks for itself. Malone Souliers makes shoes that challenge convention.

Inspired by the endless possibilities of the cordwainer’s craft, our products find new expression in artisanal techniques, driven by a love of form and a delight in unexpected detail.

We launched in 2014 with a collection of women’s shoes that quickly caught the attention of editors and buyers across the globe. Our signature ‘Maureen’, which debuted in 2015, was an instant hit, celebrated as much for its elegant curves and distinctive double-strap detailing as its flawless construction and innate wearability.

Since then, we’ve grown in many ways, expanding across the globe, launching new product lines, and creating innovative runway collections with world-renowned brands including Roksanda, Richard Malone and Deveaux. But throughout, we’ve remained committed to our craft foundations, working with the finest materials and most skilled Italian makers to produce shoes that feel as special as they look.

Today, we offer a range of shoes and accessories for women and men, with a focus on an elevated style, a perfect fit, and beautiful silhouettes that celebrate the shape of the foot. A certified member of the Leather Working Group, we design and manufacture with a zero-waste approach, continually exploring ways to reduce our impact on the environment. We continue to be driven by the passion of our founder and creative director, Mary Alice Malone, whose background in psychology and hands-on approach to design brings emotion and integrity to everything we do.

Our footwear is crafted in Italy, using the finest quality materials and is hand finished by expert artisans. Malone Souliers makes shoes that challenge convention. Inspired by the endless possibilities of the cordwainer’s craft, our products find new expression in artisanal techniques, driven by a love of form and a delight in unexpected detail. We launched in 2014 with a collection of women’s shoes that quickly caught the attention of editors and buyers across the globe. Our signature ‘Maureen’, which debuted in 2015, was an instant hit, celebrated as much for its elegant curves and distinctive double-strap detailing as its flawless construction and innate wearability.

Since then, we’ve grown in many ways, expanding across the globe, launching new product lines, and creating innovative runway collections with world-renowned brands including Roksanda, Richard Malone and Deveaux. But throughout, we’ve remained committed to our craft foundations, working with the finest materials and most skilled Italian makers to produce shoes that feel as special as they look.

Elle Taylor

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“we offer a range of shoes and accessories for women and men...

...with a focus on an elevated style, a perfect fit...

...and beautiful silhouettes”

Photos are courtesy of Malone Souliers

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

DR. KONSTANTIN VASYUKEVICH

Facelifts have been around since the early part of the twentieth century. Techniques have advanced through the years, sculpting faces as fluidly as the evolution of time. Today, plastic surgery is as common for the everyday man or woman as it is for an A-list celebrity. Things have progressed so much in this field. It’s often hard to put your finger on exactly what kind of work someone has had done. Was it the eyes, the lips, Botox, Restylane injections?

The tell of a good plastic surgeon is exactly that. Cosmetic surgery is an art. The doctor you choose can be more important than the procedure itself. It can mean the difference between “What did she do to herself?” Or “What did she do to herself!”

In New York City, Dr. Konstantin Vasyukevich leads the way in cosmetic procedures. He’s one of the country’s most sought-after facial plastic surgeons, specializing in the art of facial rejuvenation. His Park Avenue practice brings in a varied list of clientele from all over the country. As a doctor to some of Hollywood’s top stars, Dr. K is ahead of the next trend, working more as an artist with a vision for the future. His creed: Beauty begins from the inside out.

Making people look how they feel on the inside is what he practices. When someone stops recognizing themselves in the mirror, who can they turn to? Dr. K is there to help turn back the hands of time and gift his patients with the one thing they want most in the world: To feel like themselves again.

Traditionally, facelifts were meant for people who were determined to fight the process of aging. Today, the average age of people who choose to get cosmetic surgery is getting younger and younger. It is not uncommon to see 30 and 40-year-olds seeking to get a facelift. But why wait until you see the full effects of aging? Why wait until you’re in your 40s, 50s, or 60s? Today, preventative care is more important, and the trends across the country prove that. People start thinking about facial rejuvenation earlier in life. No one wants to wait to see the effects of aging. Could you imagine walking into a room suddenly looking 10 or 15 years younger? Everyone would know you had work done. While that was not unheard of in the past, today, people are getting a head start. Real art comes in the form of others not realizing you’ve had anything done.

You’ve Got The

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

While trends are different coast to coast, and the rise of social media comes with its drawbacks and benefits, the fact of the matter is, most people these days, male or female, old or young, have all had some type of plastic surgery. As we’re all discovering, prevention is the key. You want to combat aging before it happens, not after it has already begun to take hold.

Most start with Botox to prevent wrinkles from developing.

Others opt for fillers. Younger stars, for example, often choose to inject their lips and cheeks. Older patients may opt for fillers or even a more permanent rejuvenation procedure such as a facelift or a neck lift.

For everyone, it’s different. What influences you, what drives you, it’s as personal as who you are at your core.

Whether you want to prevent the aging process or reverse the aging process, there is always something that can be done.

To find a doctor who can make the process look natural, that is the one universal thing that everyone wants.

Beauty is about inner peace. You must be at peace with yourself. Dr. Konstantin Vasyukevich’s expertise and skill provide that gift to people. When you want to match your outside with how you feel on the inside, you seek out the best.

While new treatments appear and new approaches are taken,

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there’s one thing you will always want to remain the same—the results. Whether you want to fix a flaw, maintain your youthful appearance, or reverse time, there are always measures you can take.

Dr. K is a Manhattan-based, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who can turn dreams into a reality. Putting your face into someone else’s hands requires a lot of trust. If there’s anyone qualified to deliver, it’s him. His expertise is top-notch, and his results are unmatched.

Don’t forget that beauty is subjective. We live in a world where how we feel about ourselves in that respect matters. So, define beauty for yourself. And if you have any questions, ask Dr. K. He’ll show you the way. https://www.facialartistrymd.com/ @dr_konstantin 59 East 79th Street New York, NY 10075 (212) 380-3634 Sari Cohen Photos/Video by Hector Guajiro

Beauty is about inner peace. You must be at peace with yourself.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Beautiful SMILE x HAPPY Smile Nataliya Petlyuk, DDS Dr. Nata treats all sorts of people from regular folks to celebrated folks, yet she does not see any “ordinary” people. Each person is extraordinary in his or her own way. Each client is special, and brings her/his singular image aspiration, cultural bias, hopes and dreams of a beautiful smile. Dr. Nata’s generosity of spirit enables her to maintain an “expectation of excellence” each hour of her workday. Once her patients have made a choice to entrust her with their teeth and their individual esthetic, may it be grand or mild enhancement, Nata honors her clients and brings them not only beautiful smiles but a happy, confident smile.

Born in Ukraine, Dr. Nata graduated from National Medical University of Bogomolets in Kiev with a DDS degree. Nata received advanced training in Prosthodontics, and she also specializes in Orthodontics. Her DDS training led her to interpret lectures for orthodontists at different summits and congresses while working in Private Practice in Kiev, Ukraine. The big move took place in 2011, when Dr. Nata was on her way to complete the Comprehensive Dentistry Program for International Dentist degree at NYU College of Dentistry.

Dr. Petlyuk’s extraordinary eye for aesthetic perfection and a devotion to compassionate dental care led to her achievements and completion of her AP DDS program at NYU College of Dentistry with honorable license to Practice Dentistry in the states of New York and New Jersey. As a graduate of the Aesthetic Dentistry Honor Program, Dr. Nata is a proud member of American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Today, Dr. Nata is a proud owner of Smile Design Center of Brooklyn and her own private practice with the view at 30 Central Park South #7A, NY, NY 10019. She is a Cosmetic Dentist, specializing in full mouth reconstructions and smile makeovers with veneers, Invisalign, and a combination of different creative expertise. Dr. Nata uses her unique sense of facial harmony and dedication to provide the utmost care for her patients. Be it a simple filling or a complete smile makeover, Dr. Nata will see to her patient’s needs and excel in delivering great results and a happy smile to every patient.

Your smile is important. It’s one of the first things you notice when you meet someone. It can help you feel better about yourself and make a memorable impression. As Mother Theresa once said: “Let us always meet each other with a smile, for the smile is the beginning of love.”

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HEALTH & WELLNESS What inspired you to become a dentist?

I grew up in a family of dentists. I witnessed how my parents’ dental expertise changed people’s lives while improving their smile and giving them confidence. Since I was a child, I always knew that I wanted to be a dentist and I always wanted to put a smile on people’s faces. So, I followed my family roots…

What is your unique expertise as a dentist?

I specialized in Cosmetic Dentistry, which includes Full Mouth Reconstructions, Smile Rejuvenations, Veneers, Invisalign etc. I can predict how to create a smile for my patients that matches their face in harmony with their facial features.

What motivates you?

Seeing my patients happy with their beautiful and confident smiles makes me happy.

This cosmetic adjustment sometimes changes their life in a positive way, and their smiles of happiness motivate me, it drives me and makes me fall in love with my work every day.

What are your long-term goals?

To help more patients to smile with confidence.

What are your greatest accomplishments?

My dedication to my career and the growing process.

I graduated from National Bogomolets Medical University in 2004. I received my post graduate training in Prosthodontics and Orthodontics in Kiev, Ukraine. I graduated from the Advanced Program for International Dentists in Comprehensive Dentistry at NYU College of Dentistry. I received my DDS degree from NYU College of Dentistry. I went through general practice residency at Northwell Health Hospital. I am a member of AACD (American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry), AACA (American Academy of Clear Aligners, I am gold Invisalign provider). I am a certified provider for Botox and dermal fillers. And I am a member of IAFA (International Academy of Facial Aesthetics).

What are the five things you absolutely love about your profession?

By increasing my patient’s confidence level and improving their smile.

Communication with my patients.

Helping my patients especially when they are in pain.

Helping my patients improve and maintain their dental health.

Help to align their teeth with Invisalign, especially for my teenage patients where I can catch their jaw growth to guide proper development of lower facial third. This is very rewarding.

If you’d be a dental school professor, what would you advise your students regarding the dental career?

Enjoy every moment of your growth development and try to accomplish more than what is required, be eager to learn more and treat every patient as you would treat yourself.

What is the most important advice you’d give to your patients to keep their teeth healthy…?

Keep your 6 month recall appointments as precious as possible, follow up at home by properly brushing and flossing as a daily routine.

What was your most rewarding experience in your career?

Opening a second location in the city of my dreams, New York, right in the heart of beautiful Manhattan next to the Central Park. My dream came true!

What quote do you live by?

Be grateful for every experience in your life! Everything will be fine and even better than we imagined!

www.drnatadds.com www.smiledesignbrooklynny.com

Elle Taylor Photos/Video by Hector Guajiro

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INLOVE WINTER 2022

HOLLYWOOD FACES WE LOVE Paloma Garcia-Lee Rafael Cebrián Ed Quinn Diego Tinoco Olivia Ponton Jordan Fisher

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NYC is back!

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CELEB RATION

ENTERTAINMENT

Once upon a time…

Jordan Fisher

“2022 is going to be a game-changing year” Top and Pants: IHOMME PLISSĖ ISSEY MIYAKE Shoes: Vibram

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ENTERTAINMENT

Leather Jacket: L.Y FLYNN Jeans: Levi’s T Shirt: Namara

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Since 2009, Jordan Fisher has been charming his way into our hearts with shows like “The Secret Life of the American Teenager,” “The Flash,” and Disney’s “Happily Ever After” experience. “My general love and infatuation with television and film was a big part of what influenced me,” he tells INLOVE Magazine.

“One of the biggest moments for me actually came from a video game called Kingdom Hearts,” Fisher recalls. “There is something about the narrative and the collaborative efforts between Disney and Square Enix that built this incredible new universe and unleashed my imagination. It made me fall in love with music, storytelling, and ultimately, theater.”

Sari: What was it that made you fall in love with the world of gaming?

Jordan Fisher: I’ve always been a gamer. In the first memories of my life, I was holding a Nintendo controller. It has always been the consistency in my life. It has always been the thing I have always gone back to if I need a break, if I need a reset, or if I need a separation from work. Gaming is community, gaming is competitive, and gaming is fun! I have made some of my closest friends in my life through gaming. Halo 2 and Super Smash Bros. Melee were probably the first two games where I said, you know what? I am going to take this seriously. I am going to really try and get good. It progressed from there, and here we are.

Sari: Out of all your roles, which one holds the biggest place in your heart?

Jordan Fisher: I would say that I probably have three favorites. The role of ‘Doody,’ when I played him in “Grease LIVE!” changed my life. “Grease LIVE!” changed my career in the best way. It was a massive mile-marker that just launched things forward. John Lawrence, because John Lawrence/Philip Hamilton was my Broadway debut - which is also when I fell in love with my now wife. And, Evan Hansen. I’m having a blast getting back into the show. It is interesting how much we’ve all changed as people in the last few years and are feeling all of this material differently. Being a mental health advocate and being the first full-time Black Evan Hansen is an incredible honor. Especially being Black, with anxiety and depression, and being able to talk about that. Mental health is not a common topic of discussion amongst the Black community, and we need it. We need to talk about it. I love being able to have a real reason to be loud about it at the moment.

Sari: Do you have a daily routine to boost your mood?

Jordan Fisher: When I’m in the groove of things, when I’m at my healthiest and best, I get up in the morning an hour before I need to start anything. I am a morning person in general. When I wake up, I drink some water, have a quick bite to eat, something small and light, do about 10 minutes of yoga

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ENTERTAINMENT flow, and shower. I finish the last two minutes in the shower cold – there is a lot of great study about hot-cold therapy. That alone, even if it is just 10 seconds of cold water hitting your entire body and you just do some tantric breathing, once you get out of the shower, makes you happier. You are happier that you don’t have this cold water hitting you. You have more juice

and more energy to make things happen, and frankly, you get ready faster. You get ready faster, and with more efficiency, it wakes up the brain, clears the fog, and releases ketones. That is my biggest tip for any routine. Try it. It is painful. Don’t overdo it at first, do five seconds here, ten seconds there, and work your way up. That is my biggest thing in terms of a morn-

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ing routine. It is making sure that I have cold water hit my body.

Sari: What are some tips for positivity and productivity?

Jordan Fisher: Productivity is recognizing the amount that you can work at a healthy level - realizing where the cut-off is and figuring out how long of a break you need before you get back into it. I have watched many TED Talks and put a lot of work and effort into being a good boss and business owner. I don’t even like the word boss. I found my best hour of the day is the 8 am hour. At 8 am, I know that I’m going to get my best work done. Knowing this, I like starting my mornings early. I like getting a perfect one-hour-long, good morning routine to make sure that I feel good going into the day. Towards the end of that morning routine, I start thinking about what I want to tackle first, how I want to tackle it, and then I go into that 8 am to 9 am hour. At 9 am, I take a break and step away. I check in on my wife, I check in on the dogs, and I might watch a quick little TED Talk or a funny video or two on TikToK, and then I get back at it because I need that break to shake things up, to get back to work and be fresh.

For all the students out there, figuring out what works for you—in terms of pulling your all-nighters, is not a healthy thing to do. One hundred percent, please take more breaks. We all must take breaks. That’s my big tip for productivity. I could dig into all the other little things like exercise in the morning and [more on] cold showers - but you have to take a break to be the best version of yourself. You must take a vacation to rejuvenate your senses and rejuvenate your passion for the work that you do. You absolutely must do that. You have to self-care - you have to get a massage, get a mani-pedi, talk to a friend, or get a drink with a buddy. You must find balance. Otherwise, you will not achieve what you want to achieve. If you do achieve what you want to achieve with a massive lack of balance, you’ll find that you are remarkably unhappy on the other side of it.

On positivity, my best tip and trick is just shutting everything down in my mind. I get to the core.

I start counting all of the ways that I’m blessed and all of the ways that I can be grateful for what I have. If you just take inventory of all the things you have and then recognize how easy it could all go away, your life will change.

Sari: This summer, you made your debut in the Arrowverse. What can you tell us about your character for the new season?

Jordan Fisher: Bart is back and better than ever! He’s all about growth. Bart is all about wanting to get stronger, faster, bigger, and better. He lives under the shadow of his father, and I think a lot of people can relate to that in some way. Not

Suit: Imitation Of Christ Shoes: Dr. Martens

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ENTERTAINMENT

Hoodie and Pants: Bear Truth Shoes: Comfort of Light

Creative Director/Stylist Elena Vasilevsky Photographer/Videographer Hector Guajiro Groomer Kate Romanoff Hair Yusuke Miura Assistant Stephany Bekkerman

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ENTERTAINMENT necessarily living under a shadow, but at least seeing somebody that you want to have respect for and want to work with, that impulses the relationship with his dad in a really remarkable way. He gets to see what it would be and could be like if he became The Flash one day or continued his journey with his sister. There is so much fun and so much excitement with everything Armageddon - you guys are going to freak out about what’s coming.

Sari: So, have you always been a DC fan or Marvel fan?

Jordan Fisher: Growing up, I wasn’t a Marvel fan. I liked DC a lot. But Marvel does this thing. They always have. Every character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and the Marvel Universe in general, has so much more humanity. You see, Superman, this alien from a planet called Krypton, comes to Indiana and lands on a farm and is raised by these lovely human beings, which is great, but again, he’s an alien. He’s completely invulnerable.

In Marvel, there are real-life circumstances and real-life conversations. Like Tony Stark in comic iterations, he has a problem with alcohol. There are people with mental disabilities, and there are people with just real human stuff that as a person, as a fan, just as a human being, I can look at these superheroes and say, ‘Oh, I see me. I actually see myself in you.’

That connective tissue between film and audience is one of the most important things. Now, as a producer, I’m so focused on helping people see themselves in these characters in projects I am developing. Marvel has done that so well for so many years. I’m excited to see more heroes and more of a deeper dive into lesser-known heroes that have such great stories. It is really exciting.

Sari: Speaking of great stories, “Happily Ever After” is one for the books. It has been such a massive part of so many people’s lives. Disney just retired the show in September.

What has this whole experience meant to you?

Jordan Fisher: The whole “Happily Ever After” experience was a bucket-lister I didn’t know that I had. It started off as an email from my team saying, ‘Is this something that interests you?’ I dropped my jaw and called them back and asked if it was a joke. They said, no, they actually want you to do this and make this music for the firework show. I was in New York walking to the theater to do Hamilton at the time, and I cried the whole way. It was just such a powerful moment of realizing that I was going to become a part of core memories for people. Realizing that my voice was going to be an anthem and narrative where families and kids that have dreamt of going to Disney World, of having an experience with friends and family and grandparents, along with couples getting engaged and pregnancy announcements - all these really big milestones that people save for that moment when they’re watching the firework show at the Magic Kingdom, it is such an honor. My wife and I have had moments at the Disney resorts, walking around or leaving a restaurant. Someone would stop us and say, ‘My wife and I got engaged to your song’ and just seeing the joy in their faces - it was forever changing in the best ways for me.

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Sari: You got your own ‘Happily Ever After’ recently when you married your childhood sweetheart. What do you think makes a good relationship work? What does being INLOVE mean to you?

Jordan Fisher: Without question, please listen to this - talk to your partner about everything. Tell them everything. Reflect on everything. It builds trust and a foundation for you to root for one another. Good conversations, hard conversations.

Either way, it is about growth. That is the big thing. Being in love is waking up every day, rolling over, seeing that person that you love on the other side of the bed, smelling their morning breath, seeing their bedhead, the crust on their eyes and everything, and going ‘You know what, that is what I want to see every day for the rest of my life. That is what I want.’

And choosing that person every single day, choosing to love them. It is an active verb – that is what being in love means.

It means having a partner that is fully your other half, there to support you and take things on with you. The guiding hand, a guiding voice, a guiding light, and comfort, all of those things.

That is what being in love truly is, and how to do that healthily?

Laugh as much as you can. Tell jokes, be each other’s best friend - my wife is my best friend. There are so many people who don’t understand our humor, but we get each other so fully and laugh all the time. It is the best medicine. It is the best everything.

Just be completely and utterly honest with your partner.

Be fully transparent about everything, build that trust, wake up, and choose to love them every day. There are going to be days where it is just not as exciting as it was the day before or the week before, but that is also part of being in love - the ebb and flow of it all. None of us are perfect. We cannot just insert a chip in our head that keeps us infatuated with somebody. We have to wake up and choose them every day. Thankfully, we do.

Sari: You’ve gotten to work with so many incredible people through the years. As a Broadway star, a singer, an artist, working with Lin-Manuel Miranda must’ve been a dream.

I’m curious what he’s taught you?

Jordan Fisher: Lin is incredible! If he has taught me anything, it has been by observation. It has been his work ethic and the belief in the story you are telling and that it needs to exist. I feel he is the Shakespeare of our generation. He is just so persistent in getting his message across, and that is such a beautiful thing to me.

Hoodie: Namara Jeans: Levi’s Shoes and Bag: Vibram

Sari: Style seems to be such a big part of how you express yourself. How would you describe your style, and how does fashion play a part in how you express yourself? Can you tell me more about the Be My Friend Apparel Collection?

Jordan Fisher: I would describe my style as pretty fluid. I’m a very fluid person just in general, so that is definitely reflected in what I wear. Oftentimes, I wear a nice mixture of women’s clothing and men’s clothing, gender fluid pieces. I have always loved layers – long coats and sweaters – and boots with a little lift in them. If I had to describe my style, again, it would be fluid, but probably ‘Euro Chic.’ Most of what I love to wear is

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ENTERTAINMENT London and Hong Kong-style streetwear. There isn’t really a name for it, but that is how I would describe my personal style.

‘Be My Friend,’ my new apparel collection, is just that! ‘Be My Friend’ means ‘Let’s do life together, let’s be good to one another and treat everyone well.’ You never know where people are coming from. We have to lead with love. We have to lead with positivity. You don’t know what struggles a person is going through. Oftentimes, people just need a friend. I am that for so many, and thankfully I have a great handful that are that for me. It is just a constant reminder to open your heart, mind, and arms to everyone around you.

Hoodie: Namara Pants: Levi’s Shoes: Vibram

Sari: When you first started out, social media was barely a blip on the radar. As an artist, how has its rise impacted your life?

Jordan. Fisher: I’m actually producing a movie about that.

I love that I grew up in an analog world with dial-up and Nokia bar phones. I love that it was my childhood. I also appreciate that younger generations now have so much more access than I did when I was their age. I didn’t know what the kids in California were wearing when I was in Alabama in middle school.

I had no clue. Because social media wasn’t a thing, I couldn’t just tap in and see what’s going on with the rest of America or the rest of the world - it was whatever was given to me. I grew up in a small football town about 30 minutes outside of Birmingham, Alabama. You can become very sheltered without knowing it. I think social media has helped people grasp their power and claim their space as humans. I think that that is the positive of social media that I have seen. It has impacted my career, my life, really, in the way that people just assume that you’re tangible all the time. People just assume that if they hit you on Twitter, you’re going to respond, you should respond, and you’re not a good person if you don’t respond. It is tough, that massive tangibility that people have with other humans that they don’t know but expect so much from. It is a really interesting thing to break down.

I have had so many conversations about this with a lot of my peers and colleagues, and we all feel the same way. We’re so grateful that technology has gotten to where it is, and that social media is what it is, and we can be so connected and keep up with one another. But at the end of the day, there used to be a world where the media could dictate someone’s career by saying things that weren’t necessarily true. There are receipts now. You can go back and check it. That is interesting. Everything is changing and evolving. We’ll continue to adapt because that is what we have to do, must do, and what we get to do.

Sari: What else is coming up for you?

Jordan Fisher: Oh man, a whole lot of exciting things! I will say this; I think that 2022 is going to be the most revolutionary year for me in my career. I have had so many things on the slate and so many things in development for so long that are all coming out next year, as well as new announcements, new ventures, and new journeys—both in my personal life as well as my work life and career. 2022 is going to be a game-changing year—we are leveling up!

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Favorites with Jordan Fisher Favorite show on TV right now Succession Favorite social media Twitter Favorite book Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban Favorite karaoke song “Caribbean Queen” by Billy Ocean and “King of Wishful Thinking” and “Hollywood Nights” mostly ‘80s music Favorite movie “Love, Actually,” “Social Network,” “Whiplash,” “Murder on the Orient Express” Favorite era in time Harlem Revolution -- early 2000s Favorite city Tokyo Favorite animal Siberian Husky Favorite thing to do for the holidays Christmas movies and spiked cider Favorite video game Kingdom Hearts 2 Favorite guilty pleasure Twitch Chat Favorite pastime Anime, cooking, and studying wine Favorite Disney movie moment You’ll Bring Honor To Us All - Mulan Tarzan and Jane meeting Favorite comic book character Gambit Favorite couple in history Barack and Michelle Sari Cohen

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ENTERTAINMENT

R A FA E L C E B R I Á N

PERFECT MAN Rafael Cebrián fell in love with telling stories; all he ever wanted to do was given a voice to the unvoiced. “l like to think of myself as a storyteller more than an actor,” the “Acapulco” star tells INLOVE Magazine. “When I was five years old, my parents took me to see ‘Grease’ at the West End in London, and that’s when I got ‘the bug.’ That’s why John Travolta, together with Anthony Hopkins and Will Smith, are the actors that made me want to become an actor.”

Cebrián was born and raised in Madrid. After high school in Spain, he went on to study Literature at Brown University. “I was very active in the Theatre department, so my approach

to acting was obviously tainted by the ‘American school,’” he explained. “I wanted to get a different perspective on it and had always looked up to RADA [Royal Academy of Dramatic Art] in London as one of the most distinguished acting conservatories. So, I was fortunate enough to do a stint over there in 2009. It was a great time and a wonderful learning experience.

I got to immerse myself in the ‘British way’ of acting.”

All of this has paid off in a big way for Cebrián. In 2013, he landed the role of Rodrigo Borgia ‘El Pequeño’ Lanzol in “Borgia.” Since then, he has starred in shows such as “Narcos,” “Animal Kingdom,” and “Greenhouse Academy.” In October, he debuted as Hector in the Apple TV+ comedy series “Acapulco.” Cebrián is also a music lover, having started his career in the popular Spanish rock band, the Monomes.

Sari: You’re on multiple binge-able shows. Which role do fans get most excited about?

Rafael Cebrián: Some days, I get messages from people that really enjoyed “Borgia.” The other day at the supermarket, a young guy stopped to tell me that he had a lot of fun watching “Greenhouse Academy,” and people always want to talk about “Narcos.” Now, everyone seems to be really excited about “Acapulco.”

Sari: You’ve had the chance to play some incredible charac-

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“To me, acting is music: just like in a tune, there are beats, cadences, silences, and harmonies in a scene.”

I’m always writing, coming up with melodies, lyrics. Right now, those ideas don’t go past the voice app on my phone, but who knows what can happen one day.

Sari: How did you end up being fluent in four languages?

Rafael Cebrián: Being born and raised in Madrid, Spanish is a given. I went to Lyçée Français in Madrid, so French came easy - no merit in that. My passion for Italian history made me want to study the language, and I’ve also worked in Italy for a bit. That took care of my Italian. Finally, when I was a kid, my parents were a host family for American exchange students who would come to Madrid for a year. I was constantly watching movies and listening to music in English. I then perfected the language when I moved to the U.S for college - that’s language number four. I did get cocky for a second there and tried German for a couple of years as a teenager, but I didn’t get far.

Sari: Do you have any hidden talents?

Rafael Cebrián: If I told you, they wouldn’t be hidden anymore! I’d rather keep the mystery.

Sari: What’s one thing you can always count on to get you through a tough day?

Rafael Cebrián: Tiramisú.

ters. Which one has been closest to your heart?

Rafael Cebrián: Every single character I portray emanates from me. So, there are pieces of me in all of my roles. I couldn’t specifically pick one. But I will tell you that Hector is by far the role I’ve had the most fun playing.

Sari: When did your love of music start?

Rafael Cebrián: My mom signed me up for music lessons at a conservatory at age five. I grew up constantly surrounded by music. I would go to school during the day and music conservatory in the afternoons. Even though my career with my band ended, I still consider myself a musician. As a matter of fact, my approach to acting is very musical.

Sari: In your experience, how is the music world different from the acting world?

Rafael Cebrián: I think acting and music walk hand in hand, parallel with each other. To me, acting is music: just like in a tune, there are beats, cadences, silences, and harmonies in a scene. That’s why I believe that every actor is a musician but not every musician is an actor. I hope my musician friends don’t kill me after reading this.

Sari: Is there more music-making in your future?

Rafael Cebrián: I’m surrounded by musicians daily, and

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Sari: Tell me about your experience filming “Acapulco” - how you found your character and what it was like on set.

Rafael Cebrián: It was one of those rare moments where the audition came in. I read it, and right away, I knew I had to play Hector. I understood the guy deep in my bones from the get-go.

I’ve been keen on doing a comedy since I can remember.

I’ve always felt very comfortable in that world, but due to my track record, people tend to think of me as a ‘dramatic’ actor.

I never had the chance to explore a big comedic role until Hector came along. The challenge for me was to ground such a high concept, over-the-top character while making sure it still had a certain pop on screen. This first season of the show was shot in Puerto Vallarta during the pandemic. We were essentially in a bubble. People were rarely able to come in or out.

We basically lived where we worked, and even though it may sound convenient, it could feel a little heavy at times.

My favorite thing about getting to film abroad is the fact that we get to fully immerse ourselves in the culture of the country where we are working. Unfortunately, due to the circumstances, we missed out on doing that this time around. Hopefully, we’ll get a chance to do it all over again soon.

Sari: What are five things about you that people can’t Google to find out?

Rafael Cebrián: My birthday, my height, the fact that I am very good at basketball, my obsession with Japanese cuisine, and my blood type.

Sari: What projects do you have coming up?

Rafael Cebrián: I have an action movie coming out soon

called “Run & Gun” that is going to be a lot of fun. I’ve also voiced an operator in the new season of the video game Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War. There’s an indie feature that I’m really excited about that I plan to be filming this winter. Not only am I an actor but also a writer, so I am constantly working on producing my own projects. Currently, I’m pitching a couple of ideas and trying to get a script turned into a movie.

Sari: What is your ultimate dream as an artist?

Rafael Cebrián: To illuminate, cultivate, and never be boring.

Sari: Is there an iconic person in history that you would love to play on screen?

Rafael Cebrián: I am fascinated by the Mexican Revolution; I would love to play Emiliano Zapata one day.

Sari: What other genres would you love to explore?

Rafael Cebrián: I am moved by stories. The genre comes second. But it’d be fun to do a good thriller/horror film sometime soon. I’d like to work with David Gordon Green, for example. I’ve been following his career lately, and I’m a fan of what he does.

Since “Acapulco” takes place in the ‘80s, lets’ have a little fun with that decade...

Favorite ‘80s song “Jump” by Van Halen. I blasted that one before I’d start every single scene in “Acapulco” Favorite ‘80s musical artist Whitney Houston Favorite ‘80s movie “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” Favorite ‘80s actor Tom Cruise Favorite ‘80s trend Fanny packs Favorite ‘80s toy Game Boy Favorite product from the ‘80s they don’t make anymore Video rental joints. Does that count as a product?

Favorite ‘80s slang word Guay. It’s a slang term for “cool” in Spain Favorite thing about the ‘80s that is different from today Mixtapes were a big thing. Now it’s playlists, but it’s not the same vibe Sari Cohen Photographer: Storm Santos Stylist: Janet López

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ENTERTAINMENT

ED QUINN

H O L LY W O O D ’ S “QUINN”TESSENTIAL LEADING MAN Ed Quinn has one of the most familiar faces in Hollywood. For over 20 years, he’s been starring in fan favorites like “Eureka,” “True Blood,” “Revenge,” “2 Broke Girls,” “One Day at a Time,” and Tyler Perry’s “The Oval.” Apart from being a permanent fixture on our TV screens for the past two decades, Quinn is also a musician - with a new album soon to be released. We dove deeper into this multitalented California native’s life and discovered what makes him Hollywood’s “Quinn”tessential leading man.

Quinn already had a long list of credits under his belt before he booked the role of Nathan Stark on SyFy’s “Eureka” in 2006. The show was the first commercial hit for the network.

“It was a big swing for them,” Quinn tells INLOVE Magazine.

“They wanted a show that wasn’t spaceships and aliens, but there was a lot of concern about doing an expensive ‘dark comedy.’ No one thought it would work. There were a lot of power struggles behind the scenes, but then it became the No. 1 rated show in the history of the network. That number still stands today, and that’s a testament to the loyal fans who loved that crazy show.”

Quinn has been in numerous shows with loyal fanbases, such as HBO’s “True Blood.” In the second season, his character [Stan] joined the cast only to meet an untimely demise.

“I came into the show [in 2009], right as it was becoming this global hit,” Quinn recalled. “The first season came in a little under the radar, but then it became this cult sensation, and the lovely Anna Paquin won the Golden Globe. The next thing you know, it is the hottest television show. It was really fun to be a small part of a show that was exploding. Couldn’t have happened to a nicer bunch of people, too. Everyone on that show was lovely.”

Blood Loss “True Blood” fans may be interested to know that Quinn had his heart broken on the show. He wishes he could revive the character of Stan because the storyline never got the chance to see its full potential. Stan was a key character in the

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books. Not seeing that play out on screen left fans, and Quinn, fiending for more. “Getting the role was a big deal,” the actor revealed. “I was ecstatic. And the role was massive. Stan and Eric [Alexander Skarsgård] were going to war against each other. Massive battle. Sadly, before we even started shooting, a storyline had to be cut from Season 2. It was too long. And they chose mine. They didn’t want to cut Stan completely, so instead, it was truncated - dramatically. Broke my heart. I still had a great time. Everyone was super sympathetic and commiserated with me.”

Eureka!

Stan isn’t the only character Quinn would like to revive and give their own show. You can bet Nathan Stark is on that list, too! That character was actually supposed to have his own spin-off at the end of Season 2. “Long, sad story short, the creators decided at the end of Season 1 that Nathan would ‘Save Eureka, but be exiled. For his sacrifice, he’d take over a government lab that dealt with the paranormal and occult.’

I was thrilled,” Quinn shared. “Loved the character, loved the show, couldn’t wait. But, Hollywood is a cruel mistress. Shortly after being informed of these glorious plans, the creator and writers left the series. The show’s tone and direction changed, and the spin-off never happened.”

King of the Castle Quinn recalls another one of his favorite roles, playing Gabriel Winters on “Castle” in the episode, The Final Frontier. “It was an episode about a washed-up sci-fi actor whose hit show was canceled,” Quinn teased. “The Castle crew built the most insane set ever for the episode. The brilliant Kate Sargeant, who wrote the episode, wanted to write a ‘Nebula 9’ pilot and shoot it for the internet. It would have been hysterical. And it almost happened, but we just didn’t have the time. Sets go up but must come down for the next episode. I agreed to work nights, weekends, and off-the-clock to do it, but it just wasn’t feasible.”

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ENTERTAINMENT Sari: So, what’s your favorite genre to get into and why? Sci-fi? Drama? Comedy?

Ed Quinn: I honestly don’t care. I just want it to be fun. I’ve been really fortunate to work in lots of different genres. If I had to pick one, I’d say sitcoms. I love the pressure of the live audience.

Sari: Tyler Perry had a brilliant idea, the way he picked up production during the pandemic. What was it like being a part of that?

Ed Quinn: Tyler Perry is a visionary. And it doesn’t matter what project he’s focusing on, what endeavor he’s tackling, or what the world throws at him. He transcends.

The idea of getting 366 cast and crew members into a bubble during a global pandemic and safely shooting not one but two seasons of a show sounds like a movie.

And it was. That’s what it’s like working with Tyler. Movie magic. I’ll be forever proud of being a small part of that accomplishment.

Sari: What can you share about working on “The Oval?” What have these relationships meant to you?

Ed Quinn: The best part about this show, for me, is watching the fans watch the show. On show nights, I just watch the #TheOvalOnBET hashtag on Twitter and laugh non-stop. The show is bananas, the fans LOVE it, and their reactions are truly priceless. Every show ends, but when “The Oval” ends, I will mourn the Twitter feed the most.

Sari: Season 3 is airing right now. What can you tell us about the direction of your character?

Ed Quinn: I can tell you, Hunter goes dark. The pressure of the Office, Victoria’s parent’s ambition, and his damaged children become too much. I was frightened to read Season 4.

Sari: I’ve had the privilege of interviewing Norman Lear a couple of times. I have to ask you about working on “One Day at a Time.” How cool was it to be part of a show’s revival as epic as this one? What was your favorite part about that?

Ed Quinn: I’m a huge fan of old Hollywood. Of “Show Business” in a nostalgic sense. So to work with Norman Lear, after growing up watching all his groundbreaking shows, was truly special. But it was also just an amazing experience. The show was so good, it had so much heart, but it had to fight hard for its survival. The television landscape is a harsh one, and the show never caught a break. But the fans, and everyone who

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“I’M A HUGE FA N O F O L D H O L LY W O O D . ”

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ENTERTAINMENT worked on it, know it was magical. Those episodes will stand the test of time - just like all of Norman’s shows.

Sari: Let’s talk music now. You are a hard rock guy, which I love. Tell me about your love for music and how that developed? How do you balance music and acting?

Ed Quinn: I was lucky. Growing up in The Berkeley Hills, everyone I knew played an instrument. It was like a part of the culture of being a punk kid in Berkeley. You had a skateboard, a BMX bike, and you had to be able to play guitar, bass, or drums. And it was the early ‘80s, so it was all about rock ‘n’ roll. It’s not really a balance with my acting career; it’s more of a complement. My job is acting, that’s my career, but the Berkeley kid with a case of arrested development loves making some noise.

Sari: It’s so cool that you’ve studied with Joe Satriani.

What were there three most important things he taught you?

Ed Quinn: No. 1- Talent is not enough. You also need tenacity and timing. Everyone studying with Joe knew he was as good as, if not better than, our heroes. And I’m talking to Eddie Van Halen and Randy Rhoads. He had his band The Squares but would tour as a hired gun to pay bills. He never stopped hustling.

No. 2 - Stay Humble. Joe taught a ton of legends [Kirk Hammett, Alex Skolnick], but he also taught a lot of snot-nosed kids - like my friends and me. He was very invested. He held us to the same standards he held himself.

No. 3 - The entertainment business, performing arts and music, is tough. It isn’t fair. So many brilliant artists you meet along the way will never make it. So relish any and every opportunity you get.

Sari: Are there any other rock idols you’ve gotten to jam with that had you starstruck?

Ed Quinn: Okay, I’m not going to drop too many names here, BUT, the late great Paul Allen [co-founder of Microsoft] was a huge “Eureka” fan. So, I got invited, several times, up to his legendary house in the Hollywood Hills. The main house was this massive home, and then you took a gondola down to his whole other home that was basically just for parties. It had this giant stage all set up for live performances. Paul LOVED music. He had this great band, The Underthinkers. And he loved to bring up all his guests up to jam. It was nuts. And the Who’s-Who of the music industry would show up. The parties always seem to start late, and then these endless jam sessions would go into the wee hours. I’m talking Mick Jagger, Axl Rose, Courtney Love - you name them, and they were probably there. I don’t have so much as a picture from those nights, but I’ll never forget them.

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Sari: Tell me what we can expect from the new music you’re recording with your hard rock band, SUPER EQ? Ed Quinn: Well, for starters, it’s now called “SuperEQ and the Swamp Metal All-Stars.” Which is ridiculous and makes no sense but makes me laugh. As I am doing this interview, I am literally in the middle of recording a new album in my new studio. I’m actually really excited. It’s so hard as an unsigned artist to get anything right in the limited amount of time you get in the studio. I think in my whole life, I’ve maybe recorded three songs that came out “pretty good.” Hopefully, this will be different. For starters, this will be the first time I’m working with a producer that actually has the same musical taste that I do.

And he’s my studio partner, Adam Cameron. Adam is a legend. I think the maturity my drummer James Austin and I have now, coupled with Adam’s expertise, could be very advantageous. New songs, old songs that were never done right, and a few funky covers. Can’t wait.

Sari: As a California native, who’s your favorite musical artist to come out of California?

Ed Quinn: There are so many, but I’m just going to say Eddie Van Halen for one reason - the joy. No one played with more joy than EVH. He will be missed.

What Are Five Fast Facts Fans Should Know About Ed Quinn (But Don’t?)

1. I drink like a pirate - rum or tequila.

2. I’ve been bitten by a rattlesnake and a tarantula, stung by a scorpion and a Portuguese Man O War, and stepped in a hive of Yellowjackets. I’d like that chapter of my life to be over.

3. My favorite candy is Jordan Almonds, and I don’t care what you say.

4. I’ve only owned four vehicles my whole life. All pick-up trucks.

5. I hate daylight saving time Photographer: Eric Johnson

“ I ’ V E B E E N R E A L LY F O R T U N AT E T O W O R K I N LOTS OF DIFFERENT GENRE S . IF I HAD TO P I C K O N E , I ’ D S AY S I T C O M S . I L O V E T H E PRE SSURE OF THE LIVE AUDIENCE.”

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ENTERTAINMENT

In The Name of Love Evan Williams

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ENTERTAINMENT Evan Williams’ world just got a little bit brighter. The actor, known for his roles in shows such as “Degrassi: The Next Generation,” “Awkward.,” “Versailles,” and most recently the feature film “Midnight at the Magnolia” - in which he flexes his musical muscles - just released his debut full-length studio album, Cloud Parade.

The labor of love is something Williams has been contemplating putting out there for years. Under the moniker Bright World, Williams heads this solo musical project, where his talents of actor, singer, songwriter, and visual artist are all rolled into one.

Tracks on the album gracefully float between melancholy and hope. Each song is different but somehow leaves the listener with longings that linger from deep inside. The lyrics are heartfelt and thought-provoking, while the instrumentals add an air of intrigue and spirit.

The entire album is filled with messages that Williams says stem from his deepest passions. Fear, love, heaven and hell, loneliness, regrets - the whole album is an honest and beautiful look into Williams’ soul.

Sari: What is the first single you released, and why?

Evan Williams: The first single I released was “I’m Not Alone.” I released it in the middle of the pandemic. I thought that it was a vital message to get out at that exact moment.

There was such a feeling of isolation and fear. A lot of people were knocked out of their routines and didn’t know what to do. Families were separated, people couldn’t be with their families, and they couldn’t see their friends. I felt in my heart like the message that needed to be heard at that moment was one of interdependence. The idea that we’re separated is just an idea. The more we can lean away from that, the more we realize that we’re actually in a diverse network of people all the time. We’re never really outside of the circle. I can put that in a spiritual sense and also in a literal sense, being part of society.

I think societies are stronger when they’re connected. Life is not so much about winning; it’s about creating with each other and being part of a community. It’s how we all rise together.

So, that’s why I did “I’m Not Alone.”

It was a particular challenge to do the video for that during the pandemic because it was a song about community, and I couldn’t see or be around anyone. But that particular challenge led to the music video that I ended up doing, basically using a metaphor - the protagonist seeing himself in everyone. So, I love how it turned out, and it wouldn’t have turned out that way without that particular context.

Sari: What was your motivation behind doing this album?

I know it was something you spent years putting together.

So, why is now the time to release it?

Evan Williams: I feel like the first Bright World EP was a proof of concept for myself. Finding out that I enjoy the process; do I feel like it’s me? And, the answer to that was a resounding yes. Then I knew that it was time to do it for real.

I made a deal with my producer, Justin Glasco, who was essential to the album. I was coming in without much experience as a professional recording artist. I think we did many things differently, as far as allowing each song to define itself within

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Sari: To me, it felt like some sort of ascension. It was cathartic listening to it. It was like you were speaking to everybody’s innermost thoughts, fears, hopes, dreams, loves - all of the highs and lows in life.

Evan Williams: Thank you so much. That’s what I was going for. I’m glad to hear that reflected. And that’s unexpected.

When you put out something so personal, somehow I knew that people would be interacting with it. But, to have the wave kind of slapped back at me, people feeling it for themselves and feeling themselves in it, that’s something that my body was wholly unprepared for. It’s been a really interesting ride.

It’s been beautiful to have that. It’s gratifying that people are feeling it, but mostly I’m just grateful. It makes me emotional.

I’m just thrilled. This is something I made from my heart that is actually touching other people’s hearts. Yeah. That’s medicine to me. I came in from a really privileged and blessed position, not having to bend my vision of what I wanted this to be. It didn’t have to be commercially successful or fit into a certain lane. I knew that by doing that, I was opting out of some prescribed avenues for the way that people find listeners and stuff, but I would prefer to lead with authenticity. I’m not a virtuoso musician. I’m not a show stopper. I’m not Beyoncé. What I’ve got is heart. That’s what I’m hoping listeners will carry with them.

whatever genre it was going to end up being. As opposed to sitting down and saying, okay, this is the kind of record we want to write. I came in clean. I didn’t have years of being jaded by the music industry, so we got to try it with a completely fresh slate. I just felt like it was time to clarify my relationship to my own music in terms of allowing it to be just a gift. I’m ready just to put it out, cut the cord, and let it be whatever it’s going to be, as opposed to being precious and private about it.

That’s why there are so many unfinished projects - books that somebody has been writing for 25 years or a painting that that is 75 percent finished that sits in the corner. But it is not a gift to the world until you finish it.

I felt like it was important for my development as an artist, not just musically, but my expression in all facets of what I’m creating, to just let it be and make it the absolute best I could. I put all my love into it. There’s something cathartic about being able to release it into the world. Take it and do what you want.

Love it, hate it, ignore it, or cherish it. It’s yours.

Sari: What made you release the EP under the moniker Bright World?

Evan Williams: I knew from the get-go that I wanted to record under a pseudonym. For a few different reasons. I didn’t want people to be picturing “Evan Williams, the actor.” I wanted the music to be able to exist in its own space. It was always my vision for Bright World that it was going to be sonically bigger than just the singer-songwriter space. It was going to involve lots of instruments and lots of voices, and I wanted the flexibility of being able to find what the sound of Bright World was going to be organically. Bright World specifically came to me when I was on a road trip through Monument Valley with some friends, and we were reading excerpts of some books on philosophy to each other. There was a passage in this book that was basically talking about how you have the ability within yourself to make a choice. If you are stuck in your problems, that perspective will illuminate your entire reality. And everything coming back at you will align with that. That’s not to say we ignore our shadow, but we don’t go into it with the intention of staying there. So, the reverse or the other option is to metaphorically raise the eyes above the horizon. When you do that, this writer was saying you live in a bright world. All of that philosophically resonated with me. I believe that everything in life is moving towards a great cosmic yes or a great cosmic no.

Everything that we love in our world, everything that moves us, our cooperation, community, generosity, grace, all these things are generative. So, for me, it made sense to call my music project Bright World. It feels open-ended. I’m excited because I can make anything that I want under that moniker. I’m not planning to have music be the limit of the Bright World experiment, either. I have lots of different forms of artistic expression that I enjoy being a part of.

Sari: Like what else?

Evan Williams: It’s been really fascinating. I’m directing all of my music videos. I’ve been into storytelling, and obviously, as an actor for many years, there’s so much to do. I have a short film that I shot in Paris, which I will be releasing under the Bright World music banner, as sort of a production house and also the visual art that I am creating. There’s some writing that I’m doing. Things just get more exciting. It’s endless.

Sari: So, how did you pick Cloud Parade as the title of your album?

Evan Williams: Cloud Parade is an homage to one of my mentors, who’s a visionary artist. His name is Dave Zaboski.

He’s a legendary animator who worked for decades with Disney. He’s one of my greatest teachers. He told me a story once about how he and his daughter used to look up at the empty blue skies. Whenever there were actual clouds, he would take her on a hike, find a hill, lie on it and watch the cloud parade.

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ENTERTAINMENT They’d look for what animals they could find and see what kind of magical stories they could imagine in the skies.

So, these songs, to me, are like individual clouds that a listener can project themselves onto. They can take a ride and see whatever they are going to see. I’ve got an uncle that says every experience is either a great experience or a great story. So, this meant a lot to me. I explore many challenging emotions in this record, more so than any music I’ve ever put out before. By making it into an art that can be shared, we can take our pain, and we can take our confusion; we can take our shame or our struggle and turn them around. It’s like alchemy; it lets us know that we’re all going through the same thing.

Sari: Exactly how long did it take you to write and produce the entire album?

Evan Williams: The songs are a collection that’s been 10 years in the making. They were penned all over the world.

That’s the life that you lead when you’re an actor. Drop everything and go. Really, one of the only constants I had was which instrument I brought along. And so, I wrote the songs over the course of a decade, and then the process of narrowing down which songs I wanted to use was something entirely different.

I’m not used to making records. So, when my producer said, ‘hit me with some options,’ I think I gave him a file of 35 songs.

He was like, okay, we’ve got to narrow this way down [laughs].

That means there’s more material, but I’m thrilled with the ones we chose. Each one of them became more than I had initially dreamed of, which is one of the beautiful parts of making music in the studio.

Sari: How many different instruments do you play?

Evan Williams: I am not a purist. I’m not a classically-trained musician. Anything that I can manage to make a sound on, I’m happy to play around with. I started writing music on the piano before I even knew how to play the piano properly. The music taught me how to play the instrument, same with the guitar.

The songs I started writing on the guitar were needlessly complicated; my fingers all contorted to reach the notes I heard in my head. I didn’t know any better. It was only later that I realized, oh, I can actually play that same chord in a far more efficient way. I discovered the simplicity. So how many instruments do I play? I play the piano, the guitar, the ukulele, the bass, and the synthesizer. I also play a little drums and various percussion instruments. I play an Indian instrument called the shruti box, as well.

Sari: Who else collaborated on the album with you?

Evan Williams: My producer was really generous to allow me to sort of make whatever noises I wanted. We experimented with arrangements until we found the sound together. And then later, the process of honing the sonics with a great mixing engineer like Bryan Cook was a total joy; we gave love and attention to every split second of the record. On the studio floor, Justin provided the drums on the whole album as well as a whole host of ancillary instrumentation, and we brought in a lot of session musicians to fill out the sound. We had a great cellist Isaiah Gage and Brandon Walters, who plays electric guitar for a band called Lord Huron. I was thrilled to have my

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sister-in-law Ai Hagiwara playing flute on the record, as well as Hideaki Aomori on the clarinet and Jon Titterington on the trumpet. They were all fantastic. Then we just had a small army of vocalists. I’m grateful to have beautiful harmonies sung by a few Canadian songbirds Jadea Kelly and Colleen Dauncey, and also by my friend Lucy Clearwater. Finally, we’ve got a 24-person choir for “I’m Not Alone,” each one of them sending in their parts remotely during the height of the lockdowns last year. Everybody was happy to show up, which I was thrilled by.

Sari: What do you really want people to know about this album? About what it means to you?

Evan Williams: I want people to know that it’s for them. I made it as honestly as I could in order to create a space for people to have an honest experience with themselves. I hope they like it. But more so, I hope they feel that. That’s why I made it, and it’s just the beginning.

Sari: After the past couple of years we’ve all had, do you have any advice on how we can all fall back INLOVE with life again?

Evan Williams: Go back to your body. Your body is what is going through life. The most regenerative and revolutionary thing we can do is return to the body and experience the truth of our complexities. Whether that means a meditation practice, simple exercise, or even just giving space to our feelings without immediately pressing them down or compartmentalizing them, I think that’s the way we re-engage. We are all having a human experience that is beautiful.

We can survive, or we can thrive. When we make a choice to take risks with our heart, when we take risks with love, we awaken something within ourselves that moves past the individual experience. It’s a collective and universal experience.

That’s how we fall back in love with life.

On top of Cloud Parade, Williams has finished two films set to debut in 2022. He also stars in “Christmas Takes Flight,” which airs on CBS this winter.

Sari Cohen

“I am not a purist.

I’m not a classicallytrained musician.”

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INLOVE WINTER 2022

HOLLYWOOD FACES WE LOVE Paloma Garcia-Lee Rafael Cebrián Ed Quinn Diego Tinoco Olivia Ponton Jordan Fisher

beauty NYC is back!

THE BEST of BROADWAY

ART, BEAUTY

and

FASCINATING DESTINATIONS

Chicago Come From Away HEALTH & FASHION

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DESIGNER DREAMS Dior Van Gogh Malone Souliers

CELEB RATION WINTER 2022 |

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INLOVE WITH BEAUTY

UNDER THE INFLUENCE Olivia Ponton has the kind of heart that can change the world. While the model/influencer has been around on social media since 2016, this past year, she set the internet ablaze with her fun lifestyle content. Currently standing at 3.5 million followers on Instagram and 7.3 million on TikTok, her reach is undeniable - but it’s her messaging that has really struck a chord with Gen Z. Ponton’s honesty has made her a modern-day role model. “I try not to hide anything on my platforms.

Being true to myself is the most important thing to me,” she tells INLOVE Magazine. In June, Ponton announced in a Teen Vogue interview that she was bisexual and “proud to be a part of the LGBTQ+ community.”

Ponton’s influence goes beyond fashion and beauty trends - it’s reaching into the hearts of her followers, showing them that being authentic is the key to happiness and success.

Top: Mola Walker Bag: Moschino From Showroom SEVEN NYC

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Dress: Mola Walker Top: Moschino Shoes: Que Shebley From Showroom SEVEN NYC

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LOVE LEADS

THE WAY

Top and Skirt: Moschino From Showroom SEVEN NYC

Sari: How did this journey of success start?

Olivia Ponton: It started in my bedroom in Florida. I made videos in my free time because I did not have a ton of friends.

It was an outlet for me that turned into something I really enjoyed doing.

Sari: How do you deal with the pressures of social media? How do you stay positive and focused on your goals?

Olivia Ponton: Finding a way to deal with the pressures of social media was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to learn.

Now, I do whatever I can to cut out all sources of negativity. For example, when comments get too hateful, I just shut off the comments. I also write daily affirma-

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tions on my mirror to remind myself how loved I am all of the time. It is these little moments of positivity that help me stay focused on my goals, and I think that we all need that in our lives.

Sari: How do you use your platform to spread positivity and awareness about important issues?

Olivia Ponton: I constantly post about issues that I care about on my Instagram stories. I want to spread awareness on topics that are special to me. I would say one cause that is most important to me is ocean conservation - I try to post about overfishing, ocean pollution, and problems at Sea World whenever I can.

I also work closely with 4ocean and love supporting them however I can.

Sari: What has it been like sharing your own journey of self-love on social media? How is it hard? How did it help?

Olivia Ponton: I am really thankful that I was able to share my own journey of self-love on social media because the support I received after opening up about it is what helped me continue sharing tips for other girls struggling. It is amazing to be able to look back and see my own journey and to see that support system on social media grow. It can also be really hard, though - a lot of people constantly think I am 100 percent okay and everything is perfect, but that is so far from reality. No one is happy all of the time.

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LIV YOUR BEST LIFE Sari: What workout advice can you offer to those who are struggling to lose that last 5-10 pounds of extra weight - like that stubborn belly fat that just won’t go away?

Olivia Ponton: Consistency! Make sure to do some simple movements every day. But really, eating right is the most important thing you can do. I notice a change in my body the second I start eating correctly.

Sari: What’s your top tip for clear skin?

Olivia Ponton: Spend time in the sun! Get your vitamin D. Also, make sure you don’t over-wash your face and always have moisturizer on hand.

Sari: What’s your favorite healthy recipe?

Olivia Ponton: My morning breakfast: eggs, spinach, onions, and cheese - all scrambled, all on a bagel.

Sari: Tell me about your campaign with Benefit Cosmetics. What was it like to see your face in ULTA stores around the world?

Olivia Ponton: It was absolutely surreal. I was completely blown away when I walked into the store and saw my face. I’ve been dreaming about a moment like this for years, and it was crazy to see it finally happen. Benefit is truly my favorite makeup brand, and I absolutely love the team there.

Dress: Mola Walker Boots: Malone Sauliers From Showroom SEVEN NYC

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Dress: Gaspari From Showroom SEVEN NYC

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Sari: The color theme for your shoot with INLOVE was mostly black and red. What kind of vibe do you think those two colors give off together?

Olivia Ponton: Strong and powerful. When I wear red, I think - BAM! Big and bright.

Black and red command a room - they are my two favorite statement colors to wear.

Sari: Coming up at this time in the world, do you feel like people today are more into doing something for love or money?

Olivia Ponton: I would say it’s important to find a happy medium between the two. I hope people are now realizing that they can have both love and money in their career choice, especially if you choose to do something you love as your career path. I have seen instances where people or companies are driven only by the desire to make money, and I hope that changes soon. There is no better feeling than leading your life with love.

Sari: Do you feel like there is a division between real love and material things?

Olivia Ponton: 100 percent. I always talk about this with my friends. The happiness an object can bring you will never amount to the happiness real love will bring you. Love is pure happiness, even in the hard moments. Material things can’t give you that.

Sari: What have you learned during the pandemic?

Olivia Ponton: I have learned NEVER to take traveling for granted. I can’t wait to get back to traveling and exploring the world. It’s always been something I’m passionate about, and it’s one of my favorite things to do.

Ponton spoke on gratitude and then added to the conversation, “I came out as bisexual on the first day of Pride Month and have received nothing but love and support. I am so blessed to be a part of such a beautiful community. I have been on such a beautiful self-love journey over the past few months, and it has been so moving to see so many people grow along with me.”

SHOOT YOUR SHOT

Sari Cohen

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Bodysuit and Shorts: Mola Walker Shoes: Alexandre Birman From Showroom SEVEN NYC

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Top: Mola Walker Jeans:FRAME Bag: Moschino From Showroom SEVEN NYC

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INLOVE WITH BEAUTY

Self-Care is HEALTHCARE B

eauty is about being comfortable in your own skin and at Glamvie they mean this both literally and figuratively! It is no coincidence that Glamvie just celebrated 8 years in their Brooklyn location. Mom and daughter team Rosa and Vita Vaccaro understand that “Self-Care is Healthcare”. They ensure that the experience you receive from the moment you walk through the doors to the time you leave, as well as maintaining the looks afterwards, is customized and curated to each client.

When calling in to schedule an appointment the process is easy and consultations for clients can be done virtually as well as in person. Clients are placed with the perfect stylist or esthetician to ensure that the experience is tailored to them and what they need. When in the salon you are greeted and immediately made to feel as part of the Glamvie family. Champagne is being served again and that is one of the things the clients missed the most and are happy to have back! When recieving your service; whether it is your routine haircut, new season hair color, covering your pesky grey hairs, relaxing scalp treatments, weekly massages, monthly facials, perfecting your brows or getting ready for a special event you are given the attention and positive energy you deserve and need.

Just as important as what happens in the salon is the maintenance that is done once you leave. Glamvie offers many highly coveted skincare and haircare brands such as Biologique Recherche, IS Clinical, Guinot, Bond, Nest, Oribe, Olaplex, K18, Authentic Beauty Concept, Wella, and Nioxin just to name a few. The difference with shopping locally is that they will customize a routine for you! Your needs will be assessed, and the right products will be given to you for take home use. Key products based on your concerns and needs will be selected for you and most importantly they will instruct you on how to use them. There is also the convenience of ordering from them online, to still offering curbside pick-up and virtual consultations and no charge to you! Yes, they offer free shipping and free consultations which makes it all the easier to shop and support your Brooklyn Salon.

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Rosa’s philosophy is that “you must invest in your hair as that is the crown you never take off.” Hair coloring is the jewel in your crown and there are so many ways for you to shine.

Balayages are continuing to be the go-to look and this is a perfect way to achieve a low maintenance look while still having fun with your hair and being able to experiment with color and styles. Hair trends come and go each season but there are looks that have proven to stand the test of time.

Healthy hair speaks louder than words and whether you are loyal to your long length or want to try a pixie or even a lob, the creative and talented team at Glamvie is always excited to help you achieve your look.

Your skin is 90% of your selfie and walking around with a filter is not an option! Achieving that glow starts with a healthy lifestyle and healthy mindset with the catalyst being your skincare routine and habits. At Glamvie they take a holistic approach by assessing your concerns, your current routine, your goals, and lifestyle to create a routine that is easy to follow and provides results. Skincare is not a one size fits all approach and the little tweaks are what makes the difference. The methodology is based on unique and personalized skin care protocols adapted to the Skin Instant of everyone. Vita understands that great skin doesn’t happen by chance. Her passion shines through in her approach with clients and the customized routines she curates with everyone she meets in person or virtually. Whether you are trying to correct years of problematic skin or want to target a specific concern or just be proactive in your anti-aging routine there is a solution for you.

Estheticians are experienced and trained in Biologique Recherche & IS Clinical. They will assess your skin and customize a facial based on your needs and concerns. Your skin is an organ that’s directly connected to all the others, and they will use specific techniques to achieve the results you are looking for. You can choose from a variety of facials, and they will combine the treatments to give you the best results. VIP Booster, Soin Restucturant Et Lissant, MC 110, Lift C.V.S. and

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INLOVE WITH BEAUTY Fire and Ice are some of the effective treatments that they offer. Whether you are looking to be red carpet ready or needing a deep cleaning/detox or a combination of they will customize the experience for you.

It’s incredible to see the transformations that happen with clients inside and out, and it is no understatement to say that there is something special happening at Glamvie. Stop in for a consultation, to pick up some of your favorite products, to make an appointment or just say hi! For our Brooklyn readers there is no need to go anywhere else and for those that are not local it is worth the trip! https://www.glamvie.com Photos/Video are courtesy of Hector Guajiro

Vita Vaccaro

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Rosa Vaccaro

INLOVE WITH BROADWAY

The Musical

There is no better way to celebrate 25th Anniversary of the Chicago, than over the Holidays in NYC.

Photos are courtesy of Chicago PR

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W

alter Bobbie is the director and a Tony Award winner of the long-running Broadway revival of “Chicago,” Choreographed by Tony Award winner Ann Reinking, Chicago features set design

by Tony Award winner John Lee Beatty, costume design by Tony Award winner William Ivey Long, lighting design by Tony Award winner Ken Billington, sound design by Tony Award winner Scott Lehrer and casting by Stewart/Whitley.

With that said, the talented cast of “Chicago,” the long-running musical by John Kander and Fred Ebb, is back on Broadway stage.

With a legendary book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse, music

by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb, Chicago is now the #1 longest-running American musical in Broadway history.

Produced by Barry and Fran Weissler, Chicago is the winner of six 1997 Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival and the Grammy Award for Best Musical Cast Recording. Chicago the Musical is based off the 1926 play written by Maurine Dallas Watkins, the reporter assigned to cover the 1924 trials of murderesses Beulah Annan and Belva Gaertner. ... Roxie Hart’s matches Beulah Annan’s much more closely. Annan was accused of killing her lover in the bedroom of her home.

John Kander and Fred Ebb’s musical Chicago has a rich history dating back to 1970s, a time of true revolution.

Kander’s music and Ebb’s lyrics, combined with choreographer Bob Fosse, result in a show that not only musically reflects brilliance, but also thematically. Based on a 1926 play

by Maurine Dallas Watkins, Chicago satirical themes and intricate plot are reasons why this musical is so popular today (as evidenced in the 1996 revival and the 2002 film.) The main production described in this essay, however, is the original 1975 Broadway production, with Chita Rivera as Velma, Gwen Verdon as Roxie, and Jerry Orbach as Billy Flynn. This original cast encompasses in essence what the show is about and its

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uniqueness. Ebb and Kander’s musical Chicago demonstrates not only a revolution in ideology, but also in its revolutionary music and choreography, illustrated through jazz sounds, innovative rhythms, and witty lyrics.

Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, Chicago is the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her on-the-side lover after he threatens to walk out on her. Desperate to avoid conviction, she dupes the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, by hiring Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer to transform her malicious crime into a barrage of sensational headlines, the likes of which might just as easily be ripped from today’s tabloids.

Chicago is now playing at New York’s Ambassador Theatre (219 W. 49th St., NYC).

The cast of Chicago features Bokhour as Amos Hart, Ana Villafañe as Roxie Hart, Bianca Marroquín as Velma Kelly, Tony Award-winner Paulo Szot as Billy Flynn, Tony Award-winner Lillias White as Matron “Mama” Morton, and Ryan Lowe as Mary Sunshine. The cast also includes David Bushman, Jennifer Dunne, Jessica Ernest, Jeff Gorti, Arian Keddell, Mary Claire King, Joseph London, Barrett Martin, Sharon Moore, Drew Nellessen, Celina Nightengale, Brian O’Brien, Denny Paschall, Angel Reda, Jermaine R. Rembert, Michael Scirrotto, Christine C. Smith, and Brian Spitulnik.

This year “Chicago,” is celebrating its 25th anniversary on Broadway and If you’re looking for the best NYC experience on Broadway: from the story lines, to music, dancing, glamour and all that Jazz, then make sure to experience this universal tale of fame and fortune as you never seen before.

Elle Taylor ChicagotheMusical.com

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INLOVE WITH BROADWAY

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INLOVE WITH BROADWAY

COME FROM AWAY The Tony & Oliver Award-Winning Musical, Come From Away now in its smash 4th year at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theater. Come From Away features a book, music and lyrics by Olivier, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Award winners and Grammy and two-time Tony Award nominees Irene Sankoff & David Hein, direction by Tony Award winner and Outer Critics Circle Award winner Christopher Ashley, musical staging by Olivier Award winner and twotime Tony Award nominee Kelly Devine, and music supervision by Olivier Award winner and Grammy Award nominee Ian Eisendrath.

Photos are courtesy of Come from Away PR

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INLOVE WITH BROADWAY Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships. The plat is based on the true story of when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland played host to the world. Undaunted by culture clashes and language barriers, the people of Gander cheered the stranded travelers with music, an open bar, and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family.

Broadway Musical is featuring De’Lon Grant, Joel Hatch, Caesar Samayoa, James Seol, Q. Smith, Pearl Sun, Olivier Award nominee Rachel Tucker, Astrid Van Wieren, Emily Walton, Jim Walton, Sharon Wheatley, Paul Whitty, Josh Breckenridge, John Jellison, Tony LePage, Monette McKay, Happy McPartlin and Julie Reiber.

The Musical features scenic design by Tony Award winner Beowulf Boritt, costume design by Tony Award nominee Toni-Leslie James, lighting design by two-time Tony Award winner Howell Binkley, sound design by Olivier & Outer Critics Circle Award winner and Tony Award nominee Gareth Owen, orchestrations by Olivier Award winner and Grammy & Tony Award nominee August Eriksmoen, and music arrangements

by Olivier Award winner and Grammy Award nominee Ian Eisendrath.

A “Best Musical” winner all across North America, the smash hit musical has won the Tony Award for “Best Direction of a Musical” (Christopher Ashley), 4 Olivier Awards (London) including “Best New Musical,” 5 Outer Critics Circle Awards (NYC) including “Outstanding New Broadway Musical,” 3 Drama Desk Awards (NYC) including “Outstanding Musical,” 4 Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Awards (North American Tour) including “Best Production,” 4 Helen Hayes Awards (D.C.) including “Outstanding Production of a Musical,” 4 Gypsy Rose Lee Awards (Seattle) including “Excellence in Production of a Musical,” 6 San Diego Critics Circle Awards including “Outstanding New Musical,” 3 Toronto Theatre Critics Awards including “Best New Musical,” 3 Dora Awards (Toronto) including “Outstanding New Musical/Opera” and “Outstanding Production,” and the 2017 Jon Kaplan Audience Choice Award (Toronto).

The Grammy Award-nominated original Broadway cast recording of Come From Away is available digitally and in stores everywhere. Grammy Award winner David Lai, and Grammy Award nominees Ian Eisendrath, August Eriksmoen, Irene Sankoff & David Hein served as album producers.

Apple Original Films’ filmed version of the Tony & Olivier Award-winning hit musical Come From Away, produced by eOne, Hasbro’s entertainment studio, premiered globally on Apple TV+ on Friday, September 10. Come From Away, marks the first Broadway show to be streamed by Apple TV+, and is directed by Tony Award-winner Christopher Ashley, who directed the original Broadway production, and stars an

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ensemble cast led by members of the Broadway show. The live performance of Come From Away was filmed in New York at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre in May 2021, where the Broadway production is staged, for an audience that included 9/11 survivors and front-line workers; and, employed over 200 people including members of the Broadway crew, staff, and creative teams.

Today Craft Recordings and Concord Theatricals released Covers From Away, a new folk album featuring songs from the hit Tony and Olivier Award-winning musical reinterpreted by the Newfoundland and Labrador bands and artists who originally inspired the sound of the musical. The album was recorded in summer 2021 in various locations throughout Newfoundland, Canada, and was produced by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, along with Ian Eisendrath, Bob Hallett, and Sean Patrick Flahaven. Two songs from the album, “Welcome To The Rock” (performed by The Navigators) and “Screech Out” (performed by The Dardanelles), can both be heard in the end credits of the Apple original film Come From Away, now streaming globally on Apple TV+.

Come From Away is produced by Junkyard Dog Productions (Randy Adams, Marleen and Kenny Alhadeff and Sue Frost), Jerry Frankel, Latitude Link, Smith & Brant Theatricals, Steve & Paula Reynolds, David Mirvish, Michael Rubinoff, Alhadeff Productions, Michael Alden & Nancy Nagel Gibbs, Sam Levy, Rodney Rigby, Spencer Ross, Richard Winkler, Yonge Street Theatricals, Sheridan College, Michael & Ellise Coit, Ronald Frankel, Sheri & Les Biller, Richard & Sherry Belkin, Marlene & Gary Cohen, Allan Detsky & Rena Mendelson, Lauren Doll, Barbara H. Freitag, Wendy Gillespie, Laura Little Theatricals, Carl & Jennifer Pasbjerg, Radio Mouse Entertainment, The Shubert Organization, Cynthia Stroum, Tulchin Bartner Productions, Gwen Arment/Molly Morris & Terry McNicholas, Maureen & Joel Benoliel/Marjorie & Ron Danz, Pamela Cooper/ Corey Brunish, Demos Bizar/Square 1 Theatrics, Joshua Goodman/Lauren Stevens, Adam Blanshay Productions/Judith Ann Abrams Productions, Bill & Linda Potter/Rosemary & Kenneth Willman, and La Jolla Playhouse and Seattle Repertory Theatre.

Come From Away was originally co-produced in 2015

by La Jolla Playhouse and Seattle Repertory Theatre, and presented in 2016 by Ford’s Theatre in Washington, DC and Mirvish Productions at the Royal Alexandra Theatre in Toronto, CA. COME FROM AWAY (NAMT Festival 2013) was originally developed at the Canadian Music Theatre Project, Michael Rubinoff Producer, Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario, Canada and was further developed at Goodspeed Musicals’ Festival of New Artists, in East Haddam, CT. The Canada Council for the Arts, The Ontario Arts Council, and the Fifth Avenue Theatre in Seattle WA also provided development support. www.ComeFromAway.com www.telecharge.com

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PASSION FOR BEAUTY L

Laura Grigoryan – the Supergirl, aka Beauty Guru and master injector took over Burbank by storm.

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ast spring, Laura took a leap of faith and opened Fix Me Up in Burbank, California. The medical spa and salon specialize in high-end quality aesthetic, cosmetic, and beauty treatments that are also not going to break a bank.

Grigoryan and her team of experts offer a wide range of services that include everything from injectables and lasers to facials and micro blading, and much more… Fix Me Up Medical Spa is a safe and sterile establishment that is following CDC guidelines and state restrictions to ensure a safe and successful visit for all their clients.

Fix Me Up is a one stop shop for all your cosmetic and beauty needs, founded on the idea that the highest quality care be provided in a beautiful environment. At Fix Me Up, everyone is very detail oriented. Their range of skin, body, and beauty treatments target client’s individual needs and concerns. Their experienced injectors, beauticians and estheticians ensure that every treatment is customized according to the client’s individual needs.

Laura Grigoryan is the founder and injector at Fix Me Up. Her passion for art and beauty excels in everything she offers to her clients. Laura has years of business experience and extensive educational background. In her earlier years she studied Biology and Psychology at UCSD while at the same time she ran a very successful business. Short after that she obtained her 2nd bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN) because she always knew that cosmetic nursing was her destined route. Laura’s background in biology, art, and nursing in addition with her passion for beauty is the perfect combination for a cosmetic injector. She recently received her MSN degree and has started a NP (Nurse practitioner) program. She has a unique ability to see every client’s beauty secret and bring into the surface what will enhance that individual beauty in everyone who she treats at Fix Me Up. Fix Me Up – what a powerful name for the med spa, how did you come up with this name?

One day I was sitting at a restaurant with one of my friends and we were thinking about a location for a spa, and I thought how fun would it be to name it Fix Me Up. As the time passed, four years later I became a nurse and an injector which led me to establish my business model, which brings every client a smile to their face, while enhancing their beauty and confidence.

The founder, Laura Grigoriyan, tell us about your background and how did you start your business?

Growing up I always wanted to be a plastic surgeon, that was my dream, but as the industry changed, I realized that many non-invasive procedures work wonders, with less risk and

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ELITE PERSONALITIES solid results. I made the decision to become a nurse practitioner and continue to be an injector so I could still follow my passion making people look and feel beautiful, avoiding going under the surgical procedures.

What is the concept of your medical spa?

The true essence of my spa is tranquility, relaxation, and rejuvenation. I chose pink colors because they have calming effects, and when a client steps into the spa environment, they feel at peace, not as nervous and it doesn’t feel like they are about to undergo a procedure in a doctor’s office. It brings a feeling of peace and relaxation.

The whole idea of Fix Me Up Medical Spa is to make people beautiful, it’s just that simple but not in a sense where it’s over done. I want people to leave the spa looking like a better version of themselves. I always say when somebody looks at you, I want them to just say you look more beautiful and relaxed, but not necessarily recognize the procedure, just see the natural looking effects.

What is your most popular procedure?

Full face fix. I am a true believer in facial balancing and customizing each procedure according to the client’s needs.

The face fix is my most popular procedure which allows me to customize a Filler Treatment for all my patients starting from anywhere from three syringes to six syringes, allowing to fully balance the face and harmonize all the features in a subtle manner.

We specialize in injectables, full facial balancing-liquid rhinoplasty, and our signature ‘Lip Fix’ created by me. I also love fillers. It allows me to contour the face, eliminate the unwanted shadows, and highlight the beauty of features. The non-surgical rhinoplasty, ‘The Nose Fix,’ has made me emotional because of my patients’ reactions looking at their before and after pictures.

Who are your clients?

We have a wide range of clients, I would say they are mainly in their 30’s and ranging from as young as 18 (TikTok generation) all the way to the more mature clients who are mothers and grandmothers, so we do have a wide range of demographic.

Pink Med Spa – so feminine and beautiful, who designed your spa? What’s behind the idea of the interior?

It’s inspired by the positive image of the Barbie dolls, and the shades of pink. The Spa is designed by me with intention to represent the fact that we have choices, and that the power of beauty allows us to explore our limitless potential.

You offer training, one-on-one master classes, tell us about that…

I came up with Text Me Up Academy for the purpose to offer new injectors and doctors advancement in their techniques, or just polish up their expertise. The reason why I practice one on one is because when I studied different techniques, I was anxious to learn all the details, all the ins and outs. I asked a lot of questions, which helped me advance and gain my expertise. I always focus on tips and tricks that I developed my own techniques, with my own knowledge and intuition, as well as the ability to execute great results, and that is what I bring to my clients. I am not just about the basics; I bring real knowledge and real expertise to the table and this knowledge makes me stand out from the rest.

The social media is a very important tool we offer to make you as a professional injector to grow professionally or as a

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business owner going forward. I would also love to offer a course on how to run your own medical spa or be a medical spa professional. With my special courses on social media, I have grown my own followers to 25K followers within a year. I also offer a little training manual that has all the main topics about the training with all the important details included. I strive to bring my students maximum knowledge, so when they are ready to go on their own, they are equipped with all the tips and tricks to succeed on their own.

What do you recommend for a first-time patient/client? What is the most important tip?

I highly recommend asking as many questions as possible, learning about the procedures, and allowing me not only to inject but also to educate and build trust. Trusting your injector and the healing process is crucial. And I always make sure that my clients are comfortable and aware of the procedures they undertake.

Let’s talk about trends. What are the beauty trends for Fall 2021?

Beauty trends are more natural fillers, skin remodeling lasers like the morpheus8. We are seeing more and more clients accepting the fact that they may need to dissolve and redo a lip or cheek and more clients starting to focus on the quality or their natural skin.

What does your med spa offer that makes you stand out from any other spa in your demographic?

We are a one stop shop medical spa, although we are known for fillers, we also offer Botox, Laser hair removal, Facials, IV therapy, Teeth whitening, Spray tanning, Cosmetic tattoo, Eyebrow threading and Hair treatments. When clients come in a little early, they have 20 minutes to get their teeth whitened, and as we all know time is so valuable, and we are known for offering these extra accommodations to our clients.

The first company I started FlipBook Frenzy in 2013, which is a photo booth company used by all the Hollywood Elite for their over-the-top events. FlipBook Frenzy was featured on an episode of “Rob and Chyna” on E!” What sets us apart is the dedication and positive customer service we provide to our clients. There is so much love behind what we do, and it isn’t just a business for us, it is our way of creating positive and fun moments that last a lifetime. We are also very much involved in giving back. We have been a part of many charity events such as “The American Heart association”, “Micah’s Voice”, “Combsgiving” and “Ishine, A Project of Chai Lifeline”. In other words, we care, we promote love and dedication.

Tell us about your vision and your goals for the next few years…

At the Fix Me Up we strive to constantly grow and bring new advanced services, procedures, and excellent results. Currently I am the only injector, but I strive to train my team and bring more injectors on board to accommodate our clients with the best possible service and accommodations.

Fix Me Up Medical Spa 2407 W. Burbank Blvd, Burbank, California 1-(818) 238-9850 https://www.fixmeupla.com Photos are courtesy of Laura Grigoryan Elle Taylor

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Best Bu ds For To Daze Come M

eet Doreen Sullivan, the award-winning visionary, and CEO behind My Bud Vase™. As a brand strategist and master product developer, Sullivan has created one of the most respected luxury cannabis brands in the world today.

Sullivan entered the cannabis industry after gaining thirty years of experience as Founder and CEO of Post No Bills, an award-winning creative agency whose client list includes brands such as Disney, Dreamworks, ESPN, and the U.S. Olympic Committee.

After hard work and high success, her products have been featured on Forbes, Newsweek, High Times, and most recently, the T.V. Series Shrill starring Emmy Nominated actress Aidy Bryant. With the new “Friends” reunion around the corner, stock up on her latest pieces named after the infamous trio: Phoebe, Monica, and Rachel. These vases will be your best buds for daze to come.

To be blunt, we are absolutely INLOVE with Sullivan’s passion for authenticity and genuine ability to empower while creating a remarkable new ingenious outlet.

Learn more about Sullivan’s admirable passion for healing using cannabis and how she continues to shatter the grass ceiling with her unapologetic originality and heartfelt business acumen.

We were thrilled to sit down and chat with Doreen about her passions and amazing achievements…

Sydney: You’ve been at this for a while. When is it that you began the company, and what inspired you to start My Bud Vase?

Doreen: My original plan was to have a creative outlet for me. As a lifelong Cannabis consumer, I enjoyed the benefits of this plant and have relied on its ability to enhance my creativity. I started My Bud Vase as an artistic hobby to feed my creative soul and focus on something personal rather than cor-

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porate. In my first couple years all of my pieces were antique vases that I turned into one of a kind artisan vase bongs and loved every detail about them. As a woman in business and a woman who consumed cannabis, I felt the need to develop a female targeted lifestyle and consumption brand. My Bud Vase speaks to a higher calling, if you will. We raise the ritual of consuming this beautiful plant and in doing so we are normalizing cannabis in people’s homes and in their lives.

Sydney: How do you stay motivated and come up with new creative ideas in such a saturated industry?

Doreen: I’m a firm believer that there is art in everything and as a designer I can’t help but be inspired by everything around me all day long. However, there is much skill involved in designing products which has to do with creating trends, sourcing materials, and adding value through subtle details and a strong presentation. It’s these things that differentiate our products and make them so personable and memorable.

Sydney: We saw your piece featured on Shrill! Was this a surprise, do you have any big goals for the future?

Doreen: Being featured on the Hulu show, Shrill! was exciting and an unexpected surprise. Our Coyote vase, which won the top bong in Canada, made such a fabulous cameo as just a special vase–wink wink. It’s always rewarding for us to see our products in the hands of celebrities from Miley Cyrus to Martha Stewart. We can’t wait to see where our vases will pop up next. In fact, there are a few celebrities that we know have and love our pieces–now if they would only share one story post we could skyrocket to new highs.

Sydney: What are some challenges that have helped pave the way to such a loyal following (117k on IG)?

Doreen: Our social media presence has grown organically, thankfully. I think our vases speak for themselves. They are beautiful works of art, and they resonate with many different

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ELITE PERSONALITIES Charleston. What are some of your favorite finds and why?

Doreen: The Eiffel Tower was a fun piece. It’s unique but who doesn’t love Paris and who hasn’t come home with a little Eiffel Tower to put on their side table? Ours is the same thing, invoking a memory, while enjoying your favorite flower. When you travel it’s natural to want to bring things home with you.

That’s what I’ve done since the inception of the company. In my travels I’m always looking for vases that will have as much meaning for our followers as they do for me when I first see them – when I first fall in love with them. For me it’s the ultimate

consumers who keep coming back to our Instagram to find which style best suits them. Once they receive our vases, they have so much fun creating content with them and we have so much fun sharing that content, it’s a beautiful thing!

Sydney: What has been the most rewarding part about starting My Bud Vase?

Doreen: The most rewarding part of starting this company in the cannabis space is all the people I’ve met along the way.

The cannabis community is tribal, and we are everywhere.

Since COVID, not as many people are sharing joints or glass,

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creating a buzz – in a beautiful way. Let’s just say my vase is half full, not half empty. May your bud vase overflow!

“The most rewarding part of starting this company in the cannabis space is all the people I’ve met along the way.

The cannabis community is tribal and can be a bonding experience, and that’s what I’ve found with My Bud Vase. A community like no other, bound by the plant and the healing she brings. I’m proud to be a part of that. I’m proud to bring beauty into the home, out of the closet, and onto the coffee table. That’s the only way the negative stigma will go away, to

but for those who still pass the peace pipe, it can be a bonding experience, and that’s what I’ve found with My Bud Vase.

A community like no other, bound by the plant and the healing she brings. I’m proud to be a part of that. I’m proud to bring beauty into the home, out of the closet, and onto the coffee table. That’s the only way the negative stigma will go away, to normalize the use of cannabis – and we are doing that through art and the meaningful stories surrounding each piece.

Sydney: One of my first memories of My Bud Vase is the stunning Eiffel Tower piece displayed in a Smoke Shop in

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ELITE PERSONALITIES normalize the use of cannabis – and we are doing that through art and the meaningful stories surrounding each piece.”

With that said, we had so much fun learning about Doreen and her artistry, that we took it a step further and created a gorgeous Editorial Story.

INLOVE creative team organized a photo shoot with gorgeous Jessica Markowski (Fashion Model and Influencer @ Jessicamarkowski) who happened to fall in love with My Bud Vase, their artistry and spiritual meaning. The theme of the story took place at the famous and trendy Domino Park in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. A playground for local artists, photographers, and famous musicians like J. Balvin, El Puente CADRE and many more…

There’s a lot of history behind that location. Domino Park is built on the grounds of the former Domino Sugar Refinery, a site of incredible significance to the growth and development of Williamsburg and the entire Brooklyn waterfront. Dating back to 1856, the Domino Sugar Refinery was once the largest and most productive sugar refinery in the world. Domino Park is a tribute to the story of this site and is dedicated to the diversity and resiliency of generations of Domino workers, their families, and their neighborhood. So, this project is sweet as sugar, but salted with a lot of meaning!

Visit: https://mybudvase.com Model: Jessica Markowski Creative Director/Stylist: Elena Vasilevsky Photographer/Videographer: Hector Guajiro Makeup/Hair: @dinamake_up Words: Sydney Friedman

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One of the hidden gems of the Season in NYC with the superb entertainment, elegant guests, and the most beautiful venue city has to offer. Winter is the season to see and to be seen in NYC, and Petroushka Ball is an ultimate Winter Wonderland to attend.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, attending a Gala event was the last thing on everyone’s minds. As NYC re-emerging after lockdown, our iconic museums, theaters, big attractions, and favorite restaurants are back (with a few new rules, of course), and the city’s cultural life and formal events are making their long-awaited return.

After a year’s pause, New York’s premier Black-Tie event of the social calendar is back. The 56th Petroushka Ball is scheduled on Friday, February 11, 2022, at The Plaza Hotel.

The Annual Petroushka Ball supports a great cause, benefiting the Russian Children’s Welfare Society (RCWS) charitable programs.

The “Petroushka” Ball’s name came from old Russia. Petroushka was one of the most popular puppet theater characters, no matter his misfortune, he always bounced back. Igor Stavinsky, Michael Fokine and Alexandre Benois created the masterpiece ballet “Petroushka”, featuring the luckless but undefeated Petroushka who had fallen in love with a graceful ballerina.

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The Petroushka Ball was started in1965 as an expansion of a small tea dance that was hosted by a group of members of the Society. The late Helen Basilevsky (granddaughter of White Guards General Pyotr Wrangel), who was a member of the Ball first Junior Committee, designed the “Petroushka” logo which is still used on the event invitations, Ball journals and featured on @PetroushkaBall Instagram page.

In late 60s and early 70s, the Petroushka Ball was held under the patronage of H.H. Princess Vera of Russia, the last member of the Romanov dynasty who was born in Russia. Princess Vera Constantinovna of Russia (1906-2001), a great-granddaughter of Tsar Nicholas I of Russia and the youngest child of Grand Duke Constantine Constantinovich of Russia, was born in Imperial Russia and was a childhood playmate of Nicholas II’s younger children. At the age of twelve she escaped revolutionary Russia and spent the rest of her life in exile, first in Europe and later in the United States. From 1952 until 1969, Princess Vera was working as a volunteer at the RCWS, assisting with day-to-day activities of the organization.

The very First Petroushka Ball was held at the no longer in existence Delmonico Hotel. Due to the overwhelming success of the first Ball it moved to the Plaza Hotel. Over the years, the Petroushka Ball has become one of New York most vibrant and anticipated annual events, attracting 700+ dinner and dancing

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guests. For over 30 years the beloved fashion and society photographer Bill Cunningham captured the magic of fashion at the Annual Petroushka Ball for The New York Times “Evening Hours” section.

“Many years ago, in 1966 be exact, I was called by Dr. Igor Holodny the Chairman of the Society asking if I would be the chairperson of the Petroushka Ball, the most important annual event, for not only raising funds but making people aware of the charity and its mission to orphaned and disadvantaged Russian children. I was of course thrilled and honored at the invitation, helped to organize, and attended the Annual Petroushka Ball for years, being married to a Russian American, myself I am not Russian. After chairing the Ball, I was invited to be on the RCWS Board - another true honor. When my husband Vladimir (Wally) Fekula retired from Wall Street, he joined

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the RCWS Board and soon after became the President. Upon his death, I was voted by the Board to be the President. With my dedication of so many years to the charity, RCWS mission means a great deal to me and I hope after you get to know us and all the charitable work we do, you will join our community.

Together we are a powerful force.” - Beatrice Fekula, who is the current President of the RCWS, recalls.

Past Petroushka Ball events have featured leading soloists of the Metropolitan Opera, the American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, Bolshoi Theater, and Broadway Musical productions. Among the opera stars who appeared at the Petroushka Ball by kind permission of the Metropolitan Opera are Anna Netrebko, Dmitri Hvorostovsky, Elena Obraztsova, Ildar Abdrazakov, Elina Garanca, Matthew Polenzani, Nadine Sierra, Diana Damrau, Piotr Beczala, Kristine Opolais, Francesco De-

muro, Olga Borodina, Rolando Villazon, Brandon Jovanovich, Kate Lindzey, Rodion Pogossov, Oksana Dyka, Paul Groves, Serena Malfi, Ben Bliss, Ekaterina Semenchuk, Sergey Semishkur, Lyubov Petrova, Maia Kovalevska and others. Superstar soprano Anna Netrebko is the Honorary Director of the RCWS and performed four times at the Annual Petroushka Ball.

One of the Petroushka Ball unique features is two distinguished orchestras – The Lester Lanin Orchestra in the Grand Ballroom coupled with the Barynya Balalaika Orchestra in the Terrace Room. The Lester Lanin Orchestra has played at the Petroushka Ball for more than five decades. Lester Lanin brought dance music to several generations, playing at events from the White House to Buckingham Palace. The Lester Lanin Orchestra played music for Grace Kelly’s engagement party and at the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana

Spencer. Following dinner at the upcoming Petroushka Ball, the world-renowned Lester Lanin Orchestra will be playing in the Grand Ballroom. At the Terrace Room the Barynya Balalaika Orchestra will perform a boisterous set of popular Slavic folk and gypsy music, Cossack songs, and lively balalaika arrangements to the early hours of the morning. All guests are invited to dance in the Grand Ballroom and the Terrace Room.

As for the organization hosting the Ball, the Society was established in 1926 in the wake of the Bolshevik Revolution by a group of noble émigrés who fled to New York and devoted their lives to helping disadvantaged children. All net proceeds from the Petroushka Ball go directly towards the RCWS charitable programs. Among them are educational scholarships for orphans (currently over 190 students), medical treatment for children with severe facial deformities (annually over 200

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ELITE PERSONALITIES little patients receive surgeries), assistance to orphanages, schools, rehabilitation programs for children with special needs, and other vital programs. In spring 2020, RCWS established the COVID-19 Russia Relief Fund to help save doctors treating the infected patients and equip hospitals with critically needed protective gear. Since the beginning of pandemic, RCWS sponsored 10 requests from regional hospitals in Russia, awarding a total of $67,057. Annually, the Society allocates between $600,000 to over $1 ml towards the charitable programs.

For over 20 years the Society continues a wonderful holiday tradition, organizing an annual Yelka celebration in Moscow for over 1,000 disadvantaged children. In December 2020 and 2021, the charity was unable to host such an event due to COVID-19. Last year, the RCWS team delivered Christmas gifts to 2,580 children from 20 organizations in different regions.

This December, RCWS is planning to deliver holiday gifts to over 3,000 disadvantaged children.

“Each year the Ball has a different theme, inspired by fairytales, history, Slavic folklore and heritage. From Firebird, Snow Maiden, Troika, Fabergé, Tiara to Russian countryside, just to name some of the recent themes of the event. Petroushka Ball invitation covers, designed for many years by artist and illustrator Dimitry Schidlovsky, feature Petroushka character and highlight the theme of the Ball. Annual Petroushka Ball is RCWS main fundraising event and it is also an unforgettable experience for our guests. We are proud to say that it is a very elegant event and we maintain a strict dress code: White or Black Tie for gentlemen and Long Ball Gowns for the ladies.”

- Says Anna Sergeeva, Director of RCWS New York office and key organizer of the Annual Petroushka Ball.

“I would also like to highlight our incredibly talented fashion designer, Alex Teih, as I have been very fortunate to wear his couture gowns, which he custom designs especially for this fabulous event.

Alex Teih, originally from Ukraine and based in New York, has been creating the most amazing gowns, dressing many opera stars performing at the Petroushka Ball. To complete the magical look, Alex Solgier provides the enchanting jewelry, also handcrafted in NYC. We have very active Young Patron’s Ball Committee, helping our small team to organize and make the Petroushka Ball a success. We are happy to see more and more young supporters among the guests and sponsors of the Ball.

The Annual Petroushka Ball traditionally includes a Raffle with wonderful prizes and a group of children in Slavic costumes assisting with selling the raffle tickets. Usually we have over 30 prizes. At 12:30 am the night of the Ball the tickets are drawn and the winners announced. The guests do not have to be present to win.

Among the highlights of the Petroushka Ball are the powerful and moving performances by the Metropolitan Opera stars; seeing so many elegant and beautiful guests; and, of course, the vibrant folk dancing till 2 in the morning.

There are several ways that the readers of the INLOVE magazine could get involved, support RCWS’ charitable programs and be a part of the Petroushka Ball legacy: by purchasing tickets to the Ball, placing advertisements in the

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Petroushka Ball journal, supplying raffle prizes or products for event gift bags, or by generously donating to RCWS, which is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. All donations are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.

The more funds we could raise during the Ball, the more children we are able to help. RCWS channels 100% of donations to help children at risk with our administrative costs completely covered through internal sources. The Society is a non-political non-government organization, relying on individual donors and corporate sponsors to continue its mission.

Please help us to continue the RCWS charitable work by dancing the night away on February 11, 2022. Proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 is required to attend the upcoming Petroushka Ball.

For more information about the 56th Petroushka Ball, please visit www.rcws.org or contact us at main@rcws.org.

Anna Sergeeva 56th Petroushka Ball journal cover designed by Dimitry Schidlovsky Young volunteers selling raffle tickets at the Petroushka Ball.

Photo by Maike Schulz Aleksandra Efimova, CEO of RP Group International and Anna Sergeeva, RCWS. Photo by Maike Schulz Beatrice Fekula, President of RCWS. Photo by Maike Schulz Petroushka Ball dinner guests at the Plaza’s Grand Ballroom.

Photo by Maike Schulz Anna Sergeeva, model Anabela Belikova, fashion designer Dmitry Sholokhov, model Vlada Roslyakova, bass Ildar Abdrazakov, soprano Lyubov Petrova, model Valentina Zelyaeva, model Katia Kokoreva. Photo by Maike Schulz Soprano Anna Netrebko starring at the 48th Petroushka Ball.

Photo by Maike Schulz Anna Sergeeva, RCWS. Dress: Alex Teih Couture. Photo by Roman Makhmutov

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The Barnsley Resort

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ngulfed by nature, history, outdoor adventure, and hospitality, Barnsley Resort is situated on the storybook site of an 1840s Southern estate. Sixty miles north of Atlanta and south of Chattanooga, these 3,000 acres of flawless wilderness resort with English inspired village accommodations, impeccable service and top-notch fine dining is bound to make your stay riveting. It is the idyllic getaway for a memorable experience with your loved one or the entire fam bam or friends. With an array of diverting activities, for nature lovers, history buffs, or shooting enthusiasts, you will never run out of choices. A stay at Barnsley Resort is the epitome of family fun, with amazing outdoor adventures, classes and amusive menu of activities for any age or taste bud.

The views of 1800 acres of rolling hills and flat lands are a perfect location for a world class quail wind shooting hunting experience. With a personal guide, a private ride in a UTV and a clubhouse pavilion for a post-hunting unwind, you’ll want to return every hunting season for unmatched accommodations.

Once you worked up your appetite while horseback riding or hiking, get your gear ready straight to the Woodland Grill which offers Southern comfort food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Enjoy a delicious cocktail or explore a private wine library for even more memorable dining experience. A “Garden-to-table” dining at the 19th-century restaurant, the Rice House includes a rotation of in-seasonal produce and homegrown cuisine.

Weekend fun includes opening up some “cold-ones” under the stars at the Beer Garden with accompanying American staple foods such as Smoked Pulled Pork, and Beer Can Chicken, a calm, cool, and collective casual dining experience.

A bit further down the hills, the Beretta Shooting Grounds

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by High Adventure Company at Barnsley Resort offers an exceptional world class bird hunting and clay shooting experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a master at clay shooting, with Beretta Shooting Ground’s 28 station course, and private instruction, you’re destined to become a pro in no time.

However, if you’re looking to experience more than just bird hunting and clay shooting, Barnsley Resort continually innovates, searching for new immersive exhibits to showcase.

Launched in 2021, the monthly Fire Kettle Cooking school offers an outdoor culinary extravaganza taught by Chef Lebas; a French executive chef with two decades worth of culinary experience in upscale restaurants and world-class resorts around the world. Barnsley offers to their guests the Supper Club Series – superb dining elevated, over-the-top culinary experiences led by Executive Chef Nicolas Lebas, along with select wine and culinary partners.

Fire Cooking School offers a full culinary immersion overseeing the preparation of Chef Lebas favorite seasonal recipes over open flame of a Sea Island Forge Fire Kettle, allowing each participant to enjoy an exquisite dining experience beginning with a starter salad, the featured dish paired with divine wines from International 5 Star Sommelier Heath Porter of Heathen Wine Tours and Winemaker Chad Melville.

Fire Kettle Cooking School launched in 2021, the new, monthly Fire Kettle Cooking Schools offer an open-air culinary exhibition where Chef Lebas prepares one of his favorite seasonal recipes over the open flame of a Sea Island Forge fire kettle. Each participant enjoys a starter salad, the featured dish with wine pairing, and a delectable dessert bite to finish.

The main dish rotates each month depending on the ingredi-

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DESTINATIONS ents most in-season at that time. The full recipe is shared with guests following the experience so that they can recreate the dish and relive the memory at home.

If you are a wine lover, plan a Winemakers Weekend at Barnsley. This included the Friday, fun, educational and interactive wine tasting to learn about the sense of place with International 5 Star Sommelier Heath Porter of Heathen Wine Tours and Winemaker Chad Melville, Co-Founder and Head Winegrower of Melville Winery in Sta. Rita Hills, California. On Saturday, this included the three-course menu paired with selections from Melville Winery of Lompoc, Sta. Rita Hills, California.

Each month, the feature dish rotates depending on the season that reflects which ingredients are most plentiful. Completing this immersive experience, the recipe is shared with participants to relive at home.

The culinary excursion doesn’t end there, Barnsley Resort hosts Supper Club Series, a series of over-the-top culinary experiences led by Chef Lebas to maximize your adventurous palate. With interactive excursions like Winemakers Weekend, Barnsley Barbeque at the Legendary Manor House Ruins, and Swine and Wine Barbeque, you’re sure to have a full stomach alongside the discovery of a new favorite wine.

No matter what adventure you expect to take next, Barnsley Resort offers a wide variety of activities for all ages and a freedom to experience North Georgia by indulging in the amazing immersive escapades to fulfill you yearn for adventure.

Barnsley Resort +1 770-773-7480 Elle Taylor

Photos are courtesy of Barnsley Resort

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WHAT HAPPENS IN CURAÇAO, STAYS IN CURAÇAO

Curacao is truly a hidden gem, with the colorful capital located at The Dutch Caribbean.

Photos ARE courtesy of Elle Taylor

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Curacao was discovered in 1499 by Alfonso de Ojeda.

Willemstad, Curacaos’ capital city was first established in 1634 and it was built with a strong Dutch influence the biggest island of the former Netherlands Antilles with profound history and a mixture of cultures. Curaçao combines a perfect location, great weather all year round and the kindest people you will ever meet, Dushi indeed!

What makes the island special is that you have plenty of activities to choose from, delicious fusion cuisine, music, dancing, underwater sports in crystalline waters, an amazing nightlife, and many other pleasant surprises to explore!

The island is a dream for bloggers, photo addicts and social media gurus. The Dutch have always been very fond of colors; therefore, Curacao’s capital Willemstad has gorgeous, colorful buildings covered with this perfect sunlight and where colors blend with all shades of blue that reflects from the

beautiful ocean. Curacao is very proud of its cultural inheritance and locals speak multiple languages: Spanish, English, Dutch, Papiamentu, and the local Creole. This kind of diversity is found throughout everything on the island, from the local cuisine to their fashion…

Curacao is known as a perfect island for all kinds of water sports and activities. Explore a boat dive tour at Watamula (derives its name from the Dutch word “Water Mollen” (Water Mill); name of the bordering National Park. Its pristine hard coral formations make this one of the top dive sites of the island. On either side of the hard coral field lay two sandy patches full of giant barrel sponges and soft corals. Curacao is also known for Knip Beach, which is one of the most beautiful beaches on earth. This is the local’s favorite beach spot. And don’t be shy to visit the west side of the island. Westpunt, or Bándabou in Papiamentu, is the rural, western part of the island. This is where you will find some of the most beautiful beaches on the island as well as the national park and various plantation houses.

The best way to explore the island starting at Playa Piskadó for the jetski beach hopping giving by Tourrific Curaçao. Visit the treasures of this beautiful island by Jetsky, visiting Kenepa Grandi, Lagun and snorkel into the famous Blue Room.

Kenepa Grandi Consistently rated Curaçao’s No. 1 beach, Playa Kenepa is located on the west side of the island in a less populated and quieter region. This is local’s favorite get away so trust the locals! Lagun is a beach that is mainly known for the beautiful underwater world. Many also call it like snorkeling in an aquarium, so clear. It is therefore a must to go to for snor-

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keling and diving. Another highlight is The Blue Room Cave is a blue lit cave on the west. You can dive or snorkel in the cave in an almost surreal blue environment. It’s a cavern because you can ascend into it. The Blue Room is illuminated in this special way because the sunlight can only reach the inside of the cave through the clear blue water, via the underwater entrance.

And if you desire more than the beaches and water activities, I highly recommend Willemstad district tour with Curaçao Green Wheels. A very cool way to explore downtown on electric scooters. The historic city of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is must-see, as well as city’s four district’s Otrobanda, Punda, Scharloo & Pietermaai and see the city’s best sights including the Queen Emma Floating Bridge, Wilhelmina Plaza, the Governor’s Mansion, gorgeous art murals and so much more.

Let’s talk about my favorite accommodations, and where to stay on the Island.

Corendon Mangrove Beach Resort is the brand new 5-star resort on sunny Curaçao. The luxury beach resort is surrounded by a mangrove forest, a beautiful and protected nature reserve. On the fine private beach, you can enjoy the peace and warm tropical weather. Relax and lay back in The Don Cigar Lounge with a choice of exclusive Cuban and Dominican cigars. Both lounges can be visited for a fee. Water enthusiasts will have fun in the spectacular aqua park where the famous ‘King Cobra’ awaits!

Renaissance Curaçao Resort & Casino is another favor-

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ite, with ocean views to die for! This 237-room property in the heart of downtown Willemstad just completed an extensive renovation in December 2019. The inviting new lobby and restaurant evoke a nautical feel with sleek, airy, white interiors, rope-inspired details and touches of turquoise and sea foam green. The guest rooms follow suit with clean design lines, sky blue accent walls with wood detailing, geometric light fixtures, and modern bathrooms. Rounding out the updates is the new entrance to the 1,500-square foot Carnival Casino.

Pardon me, but I am a foodie, and I always talk about good food. BKLYN is a Gastro in the Pen Square area, where I enjoyed amazing quality eats and drinks together with relaxed and cool vibes. And let me tell you, they spread love, the Brooklyn way!

For breakfast, head over to the Nautilus restaurant. Treat yourself to delicious International and Caribbean dishes at our acclaimed on-site restaurant in Willemstad. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Nautilus offers a flavorful buffet and a la carte dining in relaxing indoor and outdoor settings.

Ohh and don’t miss lunch at Plasa Bieu (old market) located in the heart of Punda, in Willemstad. The place to find local food, a wide variety of local dishes. The ingredients are bought daily to ensure fresh, tasty meals. Some of the favorite dishes include braised salted pork street, bòkel (salted mackerel), kabes ku higra (cup and liver stew), kadushi (cactus soup), bonchi kòra (red bean bean soup), and iguana soup. Dishes are served with rice and beans, funchi (polenta), mashed potatoes or fries. Indulge in classic Curaçao cuisine. Another great

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DESTINATIONS lunch spot is at the Bijblauw situated in Pietermaai, the most vibrant area of Curaçao. BijBlauw has an international kitchen where both Caribbean and European dishes are served. The combination between these kitchens makes for a nice mix, something for everyone! Every day the chef uses fresh products for delicious meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes.

Willemstad district tour with Curaçao Green Wheels. Curaçao Green Wheels is a young and innovative scooter rental specialized in high quality electric scooters.

Today, your city tour will be done on these electronic scooters. The historic city of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is must-see. You’ll explore the city’s four district’s Otrobanda, Punda, Scharloo & Pietermaai and see the city’s best sights including the Queen Emma Floating Bridge, Wilhelmina Plaza, the Governor’s Mansion, the art murals and more.

Painting workshop at Francis Sling Art Cave is a powerful in-between activity and a great way to get in touch with your creativity. In 2018 Francis Sling emigrated to Curaçao to the neighborhood of Scharloo. His colorful home, gallery and workplace became a main attraction to locals and tourist, and a perfect place for his famous paint workshops.

Pre-Dinner Extravaganza is a visit to Cocktail Workshop at Ochenta Cocktail Bar. The newest addition in the trendy Pietermaai district, with knowledgeable and experienced bartenders serving cartful cocktails made with local brands and using the freshest ingredients. And then, head over for Dinner at the Bario Urban Street Food, prepared by Chef Heinrich Hortencia is a dream! Bario is a food market in Otrobanda that has multiple food options, a cocktail bar and a Snèk where guests can taste local food, experience history, music and art. Chef Heinrich is a talented young chef who has worked in several large restaurants including Shore. While living in the Netherlands, he worked in a Michelin star restaurant. At Bario, he creates amazing dishes using local inspirations to elevate Curaçao’s local dishes. You can truly taste his passion for food and personality in his dishes.

Let’s do Brunch, Curaçao way, at Hofi Cas Cora. It is insanely cool “Farm to Table” experience. Hofi Cas Cora is a centrally located family farm on the island of Curaçao. Their house baked breads are out of this world, and they also serve egg dishes, waffles, sandwiches, salads, baked goods, with mostly home-grown or locally sourced produce. Do yourself a favor and explore the farm and its cutest animal kingdom.

A visit to Den Paradera Herb Garden is a magical experience and a healthy one.

‘Den Paradera’ is Dinah Veeris’ home port in Curaçao.

Many of the ingredients that are found in Dinah’s products originate from her garden. In addition to the fact that many medicinal and caring herbs grow for production, the garden also serves as an educational function on the island. Tourists, as well as school children, are welcome to gain knowledge and to be amazed about the use of medicinal herbs. A truly healing experience!

Bon Bini to Curaçao!

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What to Do in Curacao Corendon Mangrove Beach Resort BKLYN Breeze Restaurant Rif Fort Village Curaçao Green Wheels Plasa Bieu Francis Sling Art Cave Bario Urban Street Food Renaissance Curaçao Resort & Casino Shete Boka National Park Playa Piskadó / Blue Room / Tourrific Curaçao Blue View Sunset Restaurant Fish & Joy Nautilus Restaurant Den Paradera Herb Garden Bijblauw Ochenta Cocktail Bar Zanzibar BBQ Express Hofi Cas Cora

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MODERN DEBUT HILTON AVENTURA MIAMI HOTEL

Photos are courtesy of Hilton Aventura Miami

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AVENTURA, FL is Located in Aventura, a northeastern suburb part of the Miami metropolitan area, the newly built Hilton Aventura Miami Hotel opened its doors on March 2021, to the guests. With 208 rooms, luxuries amenities, and delightful cuisine, Hilton Aventura Miami Hotel makes a perfect getaway for travelers seeking comfort and luxury. Their clean and luxurious interior and the thought-out art selection will leave you in awe as well.

Surrounded by Miami beaches, Hilton Aventura is in a prime location with a short drive from Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports and right next to the Aventura Mall, where you can indulge in shopping the luxury stores, such as Bloomingdales, which offers a Concierge Shopping Experience to the HA guests on another level. Get a firsthand look at Hilton Aventura Miami’s “Shopping in Style” package and partnership with Bloomingdales at Aventura Mall, that includes a dedicated personal shopper and other VIP perks you will love as much as you love fashion.

Hotel’s luxurious amenities include 24-hour fitness centers, eight story yoga studio, and outdoor yoga on the patio, complementary Wi-Fi, valet, and self-parking garage featuring electric charging stations.

The hotel features delightful cuisine options, with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The two signature locations Gala and Muse Bar bringing an upscale twist on Southern American cuisine with an Instagrammable dining experience. Gala’s cocktails and fine dining showcases some of Miami’s freshest seafood, flavorful tapas, outdoor and indoor seating serving

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breakfast, lunch, and dinner, allowing the experience to be delightful. Muse Bar provides an array of specialty cocktails and light bites to accompany social activities, entertainment, and endeavors.

My favorite breakfast highlight is acai bowl, which is not only a fabulous visual treat but the most delicious and nutritious breakfast in their demographic. From amazing charcuterie board to delicious main courses it’s just impossible to leave anything on the plate.

Not only is the hotel a hot spot for bustling night life, but it is also home of Aventura’s second largest event space with more than 15,000 square feet. For ballroom space capable of accommodating 600 persons, makes Hilton Aventura Miami Hotel the perfect space for large events. Committing to the safety of large group travel, Hilton Aventura Miami also takes part in Hilton’s EventReady with CleanStay, a global industry-leading cleanliness and customer service program specific to create event experiences that are clean, flexible, safe and socially responsible.

In line with Hilton, Hilton Aventura Miami is taking part in Hilton’s Clean Stay Program; helping deliver a cleaner stay using industry-leading hygiene practices to keep guests safe.

The program allows to set new standards for cleanliness, which include a Hilton CleanStay Room seal, to showcase the freshly disinfected room with a seal to indicate the room has not been accessed since its last clean and sanitized service.

“We plan to create an ambiance that is welcoming to all by offering premium amenities for the discerning luxury traveler,

“We plan to create an ambiance that is welcoming to all by offering premium amenities for the discerning luxury traveler, as well as a vibrant lifestyle amenity for those seeking to socialize and relax in an upscale, yet laid-back environment” —Kai Fisher

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DESTINATIONS as well as a vibrant lifestyle amenity for those seeking to socialize and relax in an upscale, yet laid-back environment,” said Kai Fisher, general manager, Hilton Aventura Miami.

With an exceptional stay, and accommodating services, guests are encouraged to participate in sharing their experience by interacting with Hilton Aventura Miami’s social media campaign by hash tagging their experience with #LuxeinAventura or #HiltonAventura hashtags.

If you’re looking to step outside your zone and enjoy some activities, as I certainly enjoyed an adventurous Tour of the iconic Gulfstream Park, South Florida’s premier horse racing destination, and delicious lunch at Ten Palms Restaurant. I certainly felt the adrenaline rush as I watched a race and the competitors in action while sipping on my margarita.

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Explore some top-notch dining experience with the view!

Treat yourself to a delicious cuisine at ETARU Hallandale with panoramic ocean views, located in one of the area’s most stunning beaches of Miami area. Aventura is recognized worldwide for its art scene and is home to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in North Miami. Head out and explore a local art scene on one leisurely afternoon touring the museum and enjoying fine modern art. At night, if you’re hungry, head over to Serafina Miami for dinner – it’s one of the top Italian restaurants with superb service and right by your table delicious pasta cookout in front of your eyes.

For additional information on Hilton Aventura Miami or to book, visit www.hiltonaventura.com Elle Taylor

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OLD With The NEW

The Old San Juan is the oldest European settlement in Puerto Rico and the United States and the second one continuously inhabited in the American continent. It is historically documented that the Viejo San Juan had the first municipal government in the America continent after the city of Santo Domingo in neighboring Hispaniola.

The Old San Juan Historic District’ s distribution and organization of the urban core by means of an orthogonal grid was inspired by European Renaissance ideas, particularly Italian of Classical extraction. The Old San Juan Historic District has the oldest house, Christian temple, executive mansion, convent, and military defenses in the United States. All these structures can be found within this unique core that includes the Diputación Provincial building.

The Casa Alcaldía de San Juan, Palacio de la Intendencia and Diputación Provincial form a government triad from which the Spanish Crown governed the city and the island until 1898. Their elegance and monumentality are reflection of their role as visual icons of the Crown. The fact that they always served similar uses adds an additional layer of historic and cultural relevance. The Casa Alcaldía, Intendencia Real and the Diputación Provincial formed a government triad from which the Spanish crown govern the island until 1898. These are three of the finest architectural examples in the city and the island; their location and architectural uniqueness are intrinsic

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Hotel Palacio Provincial makes history

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DESTINATIONS components of the historic urban landscape forming Old San Juan.

The elegance of the Diputación Provincial building reflected its prominent role as a visual icon of the Spanish crown. It continued to serve similar uses under the United States government, adding another cultural and historical relevance.

José Ramon Fernández, Marqués de La Esperanza was the owner of Hacienda La Esperanza in Manatí and the wealthiest sugar baron in Puerto Rico in the 19th century. He was also one of the most powerful men of the entire Spanish Caribbean. In 1898, Spain granted autonomy to Puerto Rico and the Provincial Council became the Insular Chamber.

Architect Patricio de Bolmburu redesigned the interior of the building in 1898, and this is where the first Puerto Rican Parliament conducted its affairs. In 1893, Infanta Eulalia of Spain, the youngest and last surviving child of Queen Isabella II of Spain and the youngest sister of King Alfonso XII and her husband Antonio de Orleans visited the Diputación Provincial representing the crown. They came to Puerto Rico on their way to the Chicago World Fair. The fair was to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Colombus’ arrival in the New World.

To celebrate the anniversary of the “discovery” of America and Puerto Rico, a marble monument to Columbus was erected in the Plaza de Santiago, located at the entrance of the city.

The forty-two feet high sculptural group motivated a change in name for the space to Plaza de Colón. The sculpture was the work of the famous Genoese Achille Canessa.

The History repeats itself, as Puerto Rico welcomes their First New Hotel in Old San Juan in decades, Palacio Provincial, offering a distinctive local and luxury experience stunning, restored property brings first-class hospitality for travelers to the wonderful Puerto Rico and beautiful Old San Juan.

This landmark hotel is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Set within a storied Colonial-era building in San Juan’s most historic neighborhood, the 43-room hotel has been meticulously restored and reimagined into a flawless, light-filled home base for discerning travelers seeking the best of Old San Juan’s rich history with top-service and accommodations.

Embodying the spirit found in the streets of Old San Juan, Palacio Provincial celebrates the history of the destination, while incorporating edgy design elements throughout the property. As an early 19th century building, the hotel’s antique structure reflects Colonial Architecture and is full of rich diplomatic nods throughout its decor. For most of its 200 years of existence, the building housed the center of diplomacy for Puerto Rico. Through its halls walked the most distinguished congressmen, thinkers and artists, whose lives are reflected throughout the building’s newest transformation. Perfectly marrying the antiquity of the structure with modern cosmopolitan style, guests will be transformed to another past time while feeling like they haven’t left the present.

Palacio Provincial boasts 43 guest rooms and spacious suites with strikingly high ceilings consistent with its Colonial-era architecture, all modernly appointed with regional and residential spirit. Each comfortable and sumptuous guest room incorporates locally curated artwork, Juliet balconies, and unobstructed views of Old San Juan’s vibrant streets. In partnership with Aroma360, Palacio Provincial offers custom

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DESTINATIONS scents in each room, subtly filling each space with a scent of the guest’s choice.

The highlight of the historical property is the Infanta Suite, inspired by the iconic Princess Eulalia of Spain, known for her progressive yet elegant personality, which is reflected throughout the unique design of the suite through the neutral inviting tones and pristine, white-tiled accents.

Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed with a locally beloved icy treat Limbers, which gained its popularity in 1928 when Charles A. Lindbergh enjoyed this sweet while staying at the Governor’s Mansion just down the street from the hotel. Hotel guests can soak up the Puerto Rican sunshine while sipping hand-crafted cocktails and enjoying delicious bites on the rooftop, where infinity pool blends into the sky, or on a beautiful terrace with a view to remember of Old San Juan and San Juan Bay. The property also houses an elegant library space, enclosed in beautiful 14 ft. glass walls. Filled with nods to the building’s rich past, the library provides guests with an escape through its specially curated book collection, or a relaxing moment with its intimate afternoon tea ceremony, served by a personal attaché.

In the evening, visitors can enjoy hotel’s happy hour, Forty-Three x Forty-Three, which features a special cocktail every night. Other on-site amenities include a unique open-air dining concept, Consular Restaurant and Bar, an impressive diplomatic-themed mixology program, spacious private courtyards and beautiful, intimate event spaces for small group gatherings or a wedding.

Located in the heart of Old San Juan, Palacio Provincial is the ultimate destination for an authentic travel experience.

Whether travelers seek historic attractions, such as the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista and San Felipe del Morro Fortress or want to absorb the vibrant street energy found in the colorful rows, the hotel is conveniently steps away from it all. Old San Juan’s iconic street, Calle del Cristo, is also nearby, where guests can experience some of the destination’s top culinary and cocktail scenes, including world renowned La Factoria, known for the best authentic music in town, or a walk away to the Hotel El Convento and its phenomenal bar and restaurant, where visitors enjoy wonderful Puerto Rican Cuisine and artisan cocktails. www.palacioprovincial.com @palacioprovincialsj Elle Taylor Photos by Hector Guajiro

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Cancun is Calling If traveling is on your post-pandemic list of things to do, the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa in Mexico should be your first stop Photos are courtesy of JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa

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DESTINATIONS Zone and is home to one of the most gorgeous beaches in the city. The property was built in 2001, and in 2019 saw a $40 million renovation, turning it into a perfect dream destination.

The grounds are breathtakingly beautiful. You can spend your day in a cabana or opt for a poolside destination in one of their family-friendly or adult-only infinity pools. The sister hotel - Marriott Cancun Resort - is right next door, conveniently offering up even more to explore during your stay.

I stayed in the JW Junior Suite, complete with a King, a sofa bed, and a balcony. Each room here comes with an ocean view but standing out on the balcony in your own space, you would swear the view was custom-made for you.

The decor is rich with sand tones and bursts of blue, giving off “the best vacation ever vibes” the moment you step into it.

I was hit with a rush the moment I walked in. I had entered my Zen zone. My oasis. I could be perfectly content spending the entire week just in my room. After nearly two years of lockdowns, the importance of a room holds a lot more power than it ever did before.

All throughout the hotel, sanitizing stations and COVID-19 precautions were set up. My room had been thoroughly cleaned, which immediately put any of my pandemic-traveling worries to bed - so to speak. The ocean view called to me first.

I slid the balcony door open and was hit with a rush of tropical air. As the breeze washed over my body, I took a deep breath in and inhaled the scenery.

The space comes fully equipped with every amenity you could possibly desire. There’s a living room, a bar, and a bathI was three bites into my meal when a fellow traveler at the dinner table sitting next to me turned and said, “Have you ever had grasshopper before?” As I carefully swallowed one of the most delicious things I had ever tasted, it struck me - I had not examined the menu close enough to see what was on it. I had been too overwhelmed by the intimate beachfront setting and the tasty mezcal paired with the meal - not to mention the sheer excitement about the ability to travel fully-vaccinated post-2020 again - to even think twice about what I was eating.

At that moment, as I glanced over what was on the rest of the menu for the night, I knew I would be trying things on this trip that I would never have imagined doing two years ago.

Come Away With Me It was my first night in Cancun, and we were having a private dinner at Sacbé Beach Shack. Our five-course meal consisted of authentic cuisine from Oaxaca. The southwestern Mexican city is over 900 miles from where we were, but the local delicacies had been delivered to our table with special care and preparation to celebrate our arrival.

Before dinner, we spent about an hour mingling with some of the friendliest staff you’ll ever meet, as we sampled some of the resort’s famous specialty drinks - it’s possible that this also could have contributed to my willingness to try new and unfamiliar things. JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa is known for its wide-ranging collection of tequila and mezcal. They’ve got 150 margaritas on the menu, making this place a tequila lover’s dream.

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room with a separate shower and tub. It resembled more of a spa than anything else. The room itself is more of an experience. Listening to the waves crashing at night, as you rest your head on some of the plushest linens you’ve ever felt, comes with a price tag that knows no worth. How much money would you pay for peace, comfort, and beauty all rolled into one?

The rooms are great whether you’re traveling solo, with your significant other, or with your family. There are 13 different rooms to choose from here. Each one offers something a bit different from the next. My advice: find a room that matches your energy and rises to meet the experience you hope to have. This is a place where indulgence meets functionality.

There is a fit for everything you’re looking for.

Just Winging It I had arrived, and I was determined to challenge myself - to step out of my comfort zone. First on the books was a parasailing adventure. Parasailing was a new one for me. What would usually be a resounding “no,” when asked, came out as an emphatic, “yes.” What had I agreed to? Soaring through the sky with nothing more than a seat, a buckle, and an ocean below me? How was this suddenly a good idea?

Stepping into adventure became a reality as easily as I could put one foot in front of the other. All you have to do is walkout by the pool, and adventure awaits. “Discover a new passion,” the sign read. Why, yes, I think I will. With Aquaworld, you can choose any number of water activities.

As a tequila-lover myself, I had fully intended to finish every drink laid out in front of me, but there was so much to choose from, I couldn’t resist the appeal to sip, taste, and try another.

One drink was more delicious than the next, and I didn’t want to skip over what could become my new favorite cocktail.

Inevitably, I found it in the Tamarind Rita. The sweet and tangy marg is smooth (made with Espolon Bourbon Reposado) and carries a little kick. The beauty of this place is that you have so many options, you’re bound to find your perfect match. There’s something on the list for everyone. Whether you prefer classic, modern, fusion, or exotic, flavors range from sweet to spicy and everything in between. The multitude of margaritas on the menu are eclectic enough to satisfy any craving.

A few sips in, and I was finally feeling at home. Cancun had called, and I answered. After the constraints that 2020 had put on all of us, stepping out into the once-familiar world felt like a new and inviting experience. I was going to shake hands with the unfamiliar and make it my friend. After all this time, my wanderlust was met with several days packed full of adventure, and I would not say no to any opportunity. The JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa was now my haven. This week I had decided to say yes to life. It all started with some mole and mezcal.

A Room With A View JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa is the happy place between comfort and luxury. It’s located in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel

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DESTINATIONS top things off, at the end of your Riviera Maya adventure, awaits a giant palapa with authentic Mexican cuisine. Here, you are immersed in the culture, beauty, and culinary delights of the region. After a day in the jungle, every bite tastes more exquisite than the next, almost as if each one was crafted to complement your surroundings perfectly.

Side note: Cenote Zapote gets bonus points for the bathrooms. When you’re traveling during a global pandemic in the jungles of Mexico, cleanliness, and comfort is a luxury you want to be able to afford. The bathrooms here are spacious and spotless, feeling newly renovated and surprisingly sanitary.

If traveling to Cancun is on your list of things to do, and adventure is on the menu, I would mark this stop at the top of my list. The tour guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and the beauty is unbeatable.

After a nice, healthy walk along the beach, we were greeted with a jet ski that raced us out to a boat in the middle of the ocean. In years past, I would have reached my excitement limitations on the jet ski alone, but I broke through my boundaries and forged forward into uncharted waters - in every sense of the word.

Before I knew it, three of us were strapped next to each other, flying through the air, feet dangling over the sea. At that moment, there was no greater sense of freedom and accomplishment than jumping into an experience that terrified me.

It occurred to me on this excursion that life was at my fingertips. All I had to do was reach out and grab it. Here I was, traveling again through a global pandemic, and I felt safe. I had the power to choose my own adventure, and I was not going to let it pass me by. If there’s anything this past year has taught me, it’s to do the things you wouldn’t normally do. How do you fall back INLOVE with life after you almost lose everything? This. This is it.

Cenote Experience As someone who has experienced the Yucatán before, I was no stranger to the cenotes in the region. With more being discovered all the time, there’s always plenty to explore. Cenote Zapote EcoPark is by far one of the most diverse excursions you can opt for. The history of these sites alone is unmatched, but add in that awe-inspiring beauty, along with the completely different feel of each of the three cenotes, and you will have thought you entered some sort of prehistoric paradise.

The beauty here is that you can go at your own pace (mind the other tour groups). You can be as adventurous as you’d like. Rain or shine, Cenote Zapote is accommodating and full of picture-perfect opportunities. This is a jungle adventure like no other. Feel like zip-lining? Great. How about riding ATVs? No problem. Just want to float in a cenote? Sure, why not?

Here, you can fly above the trees, jump from a platform, or coast through ancient caverns while you move at your own speed.

Your experience here is custom-tailored to suit your speed, and there’s plenty of history to get lost in along the way. To

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The Happenings At Chambao To properly experience Cancun, stepping out and getting a vibe for what this city has to offer when it comes to dining experiences is essential. At Chambao, you get a sense that is where it’s all happening. “Bad Decisions Make Better Stories,” the sign above a sofa bed read upon entering. The Instagrammable stop was the first of many at this restaurant. If you could imagine a circus, a fashion show, and the ultimate fine-dining experience all rolled into a night out, that would be just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to describing the atmosphere here.

Food is served in shareable portions, and the options do not disappoint. Specialty drinks are made as an experience, and the ocean view is spectacular whether it’s night or day.

The nightlife here certainly calls in a crowd. The staff moves table to table with bottles and flare bigger than the clubs in Las Vegas.

The must-see attractions here are the silk aerialists. Acrobats dangle from the ceiling over the ocean, dancing with delight as you move through your meal. The daring display is as enticing as the cuisine. Cozy yet spacious, Chambao offers a jungle-chic vibe that’s as rustic as it is opulent.

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DESTINATIONS This restaurant is a meat-lovers delight, offering exclusive beef cuts made to satiate the most delicate of taste buds. You can try meat from around the world, three different lobster options, or one of their rare seafood dishes.

Senegal shrimp, Ōra King TYEE salmon, and Mediterranean cuttlefish are all on the menu here. Bigger is better at Chambao. Every dish is made to serve with a splash of sparkle.

Home Is Where The Heart Is JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa is a place where you can really treat yourself. It’s a place where you feel at home. Whether you’re traveling for work or leisure, it has everything you could ever want for - and a few things you didn’t even know you needed. Spend an afternoon in their award-winning spa. Enjoy any one of their signature treatments, swim a lap in their indoor heated pool, take some time in a steam room, or simply unwind in a jacuzzi. Tennis courts are also on the premises if you’re feeling extra ambitious.

If you want to take full advantage of the outdoor beauty, spend an afternoon by the sea. Enjoy ceviche on the beach in a cabana. Work, relax or enjoy time with your family. The view is like a work of art. Everything you could dream of is right there in front of you. The food is above par, and the specialty drinks are divine. You will never feel more alive.

When choosing a resort, food is an essential part of the decision-making process. This is another area where JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa wins. Restaurants like Gustino Italian Grill offer some of the best Italian food you could dream of. If Italian food isn’t your thing, not to worry, there are options that will satisfy any craving. Southwestern Sedona Grill is the perfect way to start your morning. The Beachwalk is ideal for a poolside pick-me-up. The Gift Shop and 750 Pizzeria is great if you’re on the go. There’s also Kasai Izakaya & Ramen Noodle Bar, Sasi Thai, and Mikado. Each restaurant has its own signature dishes, and all are full of pleasant surprises.

Live Your Best Life

to do that. When it comes to places to stay in Cancun, there are plenty of options, but none that I have ever experienced was as special as this one. The team here is as much of the experience as anything else. They go above and beyond to ensure that you feel safe, comfortable, and most importantly, you enjoy yourself.

You’ll find happenings throughout the entire resort. Stop at the Lobby Bar and enjoy a band. Or, sing your heart out on stage at Champion’s Sports Bar. Karaoke was on my list of things that terrified me, but as I quickly learned, in good company, anything is possible.

Now is the time to toss away your inhibitions and do the things you wished you could do last year. Put the “what-ifs” and “why-nots” aside. Try things that scare you. Of course, I wouldn’t recommend doing anything dangerous to your mental or physical health but dare yourself to do something different.

It’s always the things you’ll regret not doing in life, not the things you did.

JW MARRIOTT CANCUN RESORT & SPA Blvd. Kukulcan, Km 14.5, Lote 40-A, Zona Hotelera, Cancun 77500 Mexico Tel. +52 998 848 9600 Sari Cohen

If you’re in the space where you’re ready to travel, it is time to live your best life. JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa is the spot

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From

STAGE to SCREEN Paloma Garcia-Lee

Dress: Randi Rahm

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“I’ve always been into manifesting my future,” Paloma Garcia-Lee shared. “I’ve always written down my goals and dreams, made vision boards, even covered my entire room in photos of the life I dreamt for myself. In a series of incredibly fortunate events, many of the things I’ve written down over the years have come true. I know that is a combination of hard work, incredible support from the people around me, and the stardust of universal timing.”

Universal timing was definitely on Paloma Garcia-Lee’s side. She made her Broadway debut starring in “Phantom of the Opera” at 17. It was soon after she graduated from UNCSA’s high school drama program and had moved to New York bursting with ambition. “Phantom was one of my first auditions,” Garcia-Lee recalls. “In a brilliant stroke of luck, I

made my debut in one of the most famous shows of all time.

I’m forever grateful for that show and that team for giving me my first major professional job and starting my career.”

In 2019, she landed the role of Adrienne in the FX limited series “Fosse/Verdon.” Now, you can catch her starring as Graziella in Steven Spielberg’s big screen rendition of “West Side Story.”

“It’s incredible to meet someone so aligned in their calling, so established in their existence on this planet,” she says of working with the legendary “Jurassic Park” director. “Steven Spielberg is one of the greatest movie-makers of all time. He’s one of the most incredibly kind and generous people I’ve ever met. He made us all feel so seen and so valued. He respected us all so deeply as artists and people. He created the safest

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COVER STORY environment for us to do our work, and as a result, the work is astonishing. This film was the collaboration of the best of the best, assembled by the greatest leader. There aren’t words that properly express what it was like, but I will tell you this – I can’t unsee what I have seen – in the best way possible. I know what I want and how I want to feel every day at work because of working with him and the process of ‘West Side Story.’ I don’t want to settle for anything less. How grateful I am.”

Looking back on filming, Garcia-Lee recalls her favorite number. “‘Dance at the Gym’” is iconic,” she remarked. “There are so many things happening at once, and the beauty of it is that it’s not just a typical dance number. That scene is an integral part of the story. It’s where Tony and Maria meet. It’s where Riff and Bernardo are playing a game of Battleship. It’s where dance is used as a vehicle to further the story – and used as a weapon – I love that. It’s acting through movement – it’s war through movement. I love the depth of the movement in this film. I am just so inspired with what Steven [Spielberg], Tony [Kushner], Justin [Peck], and the team have done with so many sections of this movie.”

The incredible thing about “West Side Story” is how it stands the test of time. From stage to screen, again and again, there is something so timeless and constantly topical about this story. “It is [essentially] ‘Romeo and Juliet’ – one of the greatest love stories of all time. It’s a story about love, acceptance, adversity, and fighting for a place for us all. It showcases a shared conflict that we all face daily in this world,” Garcia-Lee shared.

One of the big changes, she points out, in this iteration, we’re looking at an entirely new script. “I don’t want to give anything away,” she said, “but what Tony Kushner has done with this script, the depth that he and Steven were able to infuse into this already beautiful and rich story and its characters, is just astounding. I also feel we are seeing a true film.

Not simply a movie musical. Or a musical being filmed. We are seeing it through a cinematic eye. We are in the hands of one of the greatest directors and filmmakers of all time, so there is just an elevated level to the feel and the texture of this remake.

It’s fresh, new, and deep in all the right ways, while honoring, nodding, and pulling from the original – not only the original movie but the stage version, and even the deeper roots of ‘Romeo and Juliet.’”

Highlights for Garcia-Lee have been getting to interact with some of the original “West Side Story” cast members. Rita Moreno [who won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar in 1962 for playing Anita] steps into the role of Valentina in Spielberg’s 2021 edition. The actresses had the opportunity to spend a good amount of time together on set. “It was incredibly special to get to hear her stories, watch her work, and also watch her celebrate us all – the next generation telling this story,” Garcia-Lee said. “I’ve also reached out to Carole D’Andrea, who was the original Velma. She was so kind lovely in our e-mail exchange. Hopefully, soon I’ll be in touch with Gina Trikonis, who played the original Graziella. Those two are icons to me.

Many original cast members, both from stage and screen, came by the set while we were filming. It was thrilling to meet them and connect over this material in such a beautiful and powerful way.”

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“I’m proud to be a triple threat”

Feather Necklace: Erickson Beamer Pants: Gaspari Top: Mola Walker Shoes: Beauty Souls Shoes: Que Shebley

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Creative Director/Stylist Elena Vasilevsky Photographer/Videographer Hector Guajiro Makeup Mayela Vazquez Hair Martin Plascencia

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“There is absolutely nothing that replaces the butterflies I feel when I am making art” Dress and Denim Jacket: Showroom SEVEN NYC

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In this new version, Garcia-Lee was excited to bring her own authentic energy to the role of Graziella. Gina Trikonis from the 1961 film served as a huge inspiration to her. “I think it’s fascinating,” the actress/dancer points out. “Graziella, on paper, could sometimes be seen as a ‘dancer,’ but she was always so much more than that to me.” Garcia-Lee recounted at the age of 15, starring as Graziella under the direction of Gerald Freedman, giving her insight on yet another version of the same character that she would one day be playing on the big screen.

“I knew I wanted to bring a lot of myself to the role,” she says of Spielberg’s production. “Everything from how I interacted with Riff [Mike Faist] to my interactions with Velma [Maddie Ziegler] and Anita [Ariana DeBose]. I know that Steven and Tony saw my innate connection to this character and allowed me to just infuse her with so much of myself. Graz is strong, passionate, fiery, and opinionated – she’s different. Her relationship with Riff is complicated. Her love for the Jet boys, for Tony and Riff, is so deep.”

Garcia-Lee may be making leaps and bounds in the entertainment industry, but she’s only just getting started. “I’m proud to be a triple threat and hope for opportunities that keep combining my love of acting and dancing in amazing ways,” she voiced. “I’m also so excited to fulfill my lifelong dreams of stepping into so many different versions of myself. There are characters that I want to play that have nothing to do with dance or anything like that. Of course, I will always carry that work in my body, but to be re-aligning with my love of acting at this moment and getting new opportunities to flex, stretch and grow in new ways, is igniting me in a way I have never felt before. I’m ready to chase it, manifest it, and watch it unfold.”

The “West Side Story” actress is excited about what the future will bring. “I’m looking forward to stepping into this next chapter – allowing the universe to lead me to the rooms I need to be in, the directors I need to work with, and the creators and collaborators that I am meant to align with. I want to act. I can’t say it enough; I want to tell complicated, nuanced stories that are powerful and important. I want to tell complicated love stories. I want to work with Wes Anderson. I want to create my own work and write for myself. I want to exhaust myself making and doing. During this pandemic, I have let myself rest and reset. I am stepping out of 13 years on Broadway, and with this film, I’m at the beginning of a new chapter. I have gone through some major life events during this time, too, so I truly step into this moment, an eager, glistening soul who is rested, ready and inspired. I want to do so many things and have ignited the fire to run after them full-force,” Garcia-Lee professed.

“There is absolutely nothing that replaces the butterflies I feel when I am making art,” she adds. “Whether that is dancing or acting or singing – it’s just the exhilarating feeling of doing the work. The feeling of exhausting myself in the pursuit of growth as an artist and a human completely lights me up. I’m enamored with making art. I love the trial and error of it. I love the collaboration of it. The bubbly space of making and telling stories, of using my instrument and my soul to expand past my own human limitations and transforming into whatever it is I’m working on is the greatest pleasure of my life.”

Dress: Randi Rahm Shoes: Prada

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PALOMA GARCIA-LEE ON THE “GOLDEN AGE OF HOLLYWOOD”. . .

Favorite movie from that time “Singin’ in the Rain,” “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” “An American in Paris,” “On the Town” – oh gosh, there are SO MANY! If I stretch into the early ‘60s, of course, I will include “The Music Man” and “West Side Story.”

Favorite dance number from that time Cyd Charisse and Gene Kelly in “Singin’ in the Rain.” Another dream-come-true alignment - I’m a company member of American Dance Machine. It’s an incredible company that re-creates and performs classic works. It ensures to carry on the legacies of past shows, choreographers, and incredible musical numbers. I’ve gotten to perform that very duet many times. Something about the sensuality of it and that connection between those two characters always intrigued me. Also, “Dance at the Gym” from “West Side Story” is a number I have revisited so many times in my life that music is singular in its power to me.

I have watched that section from the ’61 film more times than I can even tell you. It’s not lost on me that I have gotten to step into the very music and roles that have inspired me so much.

Favorite actor/actress from that time Gene Kelly, James Dean, Vera-Ellen, Cyd Charisse, Donald O’Connor, Marlon Brando, Marilyn Monroe, Rita Hayworth, Elizabeth Taylor, Lucille Ball - the list goes on and on.

Favorite thing about how movies made you feel at that time I love the love stories, the drama, the heightened stakes, and just the insane production numbers in the musical films of the time. They make me feel so alive and glittery. Watching the industry shift over time as the equipment gets better and new things are invented - it’s just a complete masterclass in cinema. I recommend everyone go and watch a few “Golden Age” movies this winter. It’s a total joy.

Favorite movie line from that time It’s from “Singin’ in the Rain.” “People? I ain’t ‘people.’ I am a - ‘a shimmering, glowing star in the cinema firmament.’” [picks up newspaper] “It says so - right here.” - Lina Lamont.

Favorite fashion from that time Skirts and dresses with a high slit up the leg. I think the women’s fashion of that time was so incredibly sexy and flattering. The men, too. Actually, I love it all. Let’s bring it back.

Jumpsuit: Randi Rahm

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THE NEXT CHAPTER DIEGO TINOCO Creative Director Elena Vasilevsky Photographer Krissy Saleh Stylist Malyssa Lyles Groomer Jaclyn B

I Sweater: Celine (Saks Fifth Ave) Pants: MIsterTripleX (Maison Privee PR)

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f Hollywood is consistent with one thing, it’s finding that small percentage of people who have the “it” factor. Diego Tinoco is proof of that. The “Teen Wolf” actor just wrapped a successful four seasons starring as Cesar Diaz on Netflix’s “On My Block.” With an Instagram following of 2.7 million and a loyal fanbase on his side, the next chapter is bound to be Tinoco’s most interesting yet.

“I’ve always wanted to be an actor, ever since I was a little kid,” Tinoco tells INLOVE Magazine. “I came out to Central Casting to sign up as an extra when I was just 11 years old but got rejected because I wasn’t 18 yet. At 19, I decided to move here [Los Angeles], and wow, has it been a journey in Hollywood.”

Tinoco’s tale began like most actors: he made the move to a studio apartment in L.A. that he shared with his best friend, worked in restaurants, got a job at Postmates, and attended acting classes. Until finally, his childhood dream became a reality. “I’m still navigating this terrain,” he admits. “Honestly, it all still feels new.

Especially coming back into the spotlight since COVID hit and the pandemic took over.”

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COVER STORY Sari: Fans have loved you as Cesar Diaz on “On My Block.” A lot of people are sad to see the show come to an end. What was your favorite episode you shot?

Diego Tinoco: My favorite episode I shot would have to be Season 4, episode 10. I never had a prom growing up, so it was nice to experience that for the first time, even if it was on the show. I missed out on a lot of experiences in high school for personal reasons, but funny enough, I got to live them out through the show. I’ll always look back on these years as some of the best times of my life. I will be forever grateful for them because I got to experience everything on the teenage bucket list.

Sari: On the show, you walk the line between gang-related situations and romance. Tell me how you crafted your character to move so well between the two extremes.

Diego Tinoco: The key is just taking it one scene at a time. [It’s about] doing that one scene justice, staying true to the overall story, and understanding your character’s motives. Cesar is a kid dealing with some very serious life or death issues, but just like any teen, he also has his desires and wants. When he’s not involved in the more serious parts of his life, he wants to enjoy his life. So, it was important to instill that into his core and always leave hints of that in the work, especially when it came to romance.

Sari: I know you’re not the biggest fan of watching yourself, but what onscreen moment have you been most proud of?

Diego Tinoco: I’m pretty critical of my work. I’m always trying to see what I could’ve done better, what worked, what didn’t, and why. It’s honestly a curse [laughs]. But I think more than a specific scene, it was going to the first “On My Block” premiere at Netflix studios and being able to bring my family, coming from Mexico and Ecuador to a premiere for a show where I’m starring as a lead. Bringing my family, team, and friends who were there with me since the beginning to watch the first two episodes was definitely the proudest moment. And the most surreal.

Sari: How do you feel like you’ve grown over the past four seasons, not only as an artist but in your personal life?

Diego Tinoco: I feel really grounded in my life. As an artist, and in my personal life, I know what I want. I know why I want the things that I want. And I’m working towards that direction every day in my relationships with work, friends, family, health, and finances. I have a plan, and I’m dedicated to this plan. I’m not eager to make any moves just to make moves. I’m not trying to take shortcuts because sometimes trying to cut one step forward takes you two steps backward. When I was younger, I wanted the world all in one bite. But now, I’m learning to be patient, trust the process, and enjoy the process. What’s meant for you is meant for you as long as you put in the work, and you do your best.

Sari: In what ways are you most like your character?

Diego Tinoco: I’m most like my character in the sense that we are both resilient. We both keep pushing past the obstacles in life. And we both want bigger and better things for our life.

We never give up. I credit my father for teaching me that. His coming into this country as an immigrant was not an easy route but seeing his success and seeing him put in years of hard work truly rubbed off on me.

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“I’m pretty critical of my work. I’m always trying to see what I could’ve done better, what worked, what didn’t, and why. It’s honestly a curse.”

Hoodie and pants: Balmain (Saks Fifth Ave)

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Blazer: MisterTripleX (Maison Privee PR)

Shirt and Pants: Dior (Saks Fifth Ave)

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“I’d really love to do an entire project in Spanish.

Something that takes place in Mexico...”

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Sari: What are you going to miss most about the whole “On My Block” experience?

Diego Tinoco: The camaraderie we established between the cast, the crew, directors, producers, and the studio. That sense of creative freedom to take risks in the work and feel motivated to do so, always exploring the work to its truest depth and enjoying the days on set with your costars and crew. The days on a set can get quite long, so if this camaraderie is not there, then all else fails. I believe the chemistry and the camaraderie between the set are the keys to a successful TV show or movie.

Sari: What do you hope fans will take away from the show when it ends?

Diego Tinoco: I hope anyone who has watched this show walks away with a sense of hope. A feeling that it doesn’t matter what you’ve been born into, that you can always create better circumstances for your life. Create your plan, find out where you want to go and go.

Sari: “On My Block” has been applauded for its Latinx representation. In what ways do you think Netflix and other platforms can expand on that?

Diego Tinoco: I loved working with Netflix for many reasons.

One is that they provided many opportunities to people of color, not only starring in the show but behind the scenes as well.

Nearly all of our directors this season were people of color.

Some of them had gone through a special program that Netflix had - to develop up-and-coming directors. And ultimately let them direct our show. So, I think other studios should provide the chance for these up-and-coming artists to take their swing at the ball. Especially if they have the talent and they’re able to show and prove it. You have to remember Quentin Tarantino, Christopher Nolan, Baz Luhrmann - they were all once up-andcoming artists as well. Someone just decided to take a chance on them. So, take a chance on us.

Sari: What kind of stories do you hope to tell that do more to highlight your heritage?

Diego Tinoco: I’d really love to do an entire project in Spanish. Something that takes place in Mexico that truly focuses on our culture, beautiful country, and the spirit of our people.

Something that leaves not only people of color, but everyone inspired, from all walks of life.

Sari: What can you tell me about your role in “Knights of the Zodiac?”

Diego Tinoco: My role in “Knights of the Zodiac” is a very juicy one. It’s a secret for now. But he is most likely going to be considered the most badass - a fan favorite. Could be someone who’s been in the anime, could be a brand-new character.

Sari: What else is in the pipeline for you?

Diego Tinoco: Apart from the “Knights of the Zodiac” film franchise, I’m currently working on a novel I want to turn into a screenplay. I’m also working on my own clothing line named ‘Sangre Mia.’ Sari: What are your future dreams and goals?

Diego Tinoco: I want to own a huge spot in my hometown where I grew up and have my own projects developing and releasing 24/7. Not letting anyone decide for me when I can and can’t work but rather take full control.

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DYING TO KNOW DIEGO

Hoodie: Givenchy

What’s your zodiac sign?

DT: Sagittarius.

What’s the craziest DM you’ve ever received?

DT: Craziest DM would be: someone claiming they were my long-lost twin brother in need of 100k.

What would your “most likely” award be?

DT: Most likely award: to own a Chow Chow.

What would your “least likely” award be?

DT: Least likely award: to get married.

What’s your go-to karaoke song?

DT: Go-to karaoke: “Corazón” by Maluma.

What movie makes you cry?

DT: “Interstellar” by Christopher Nolan.

What guilty pleasure song can you not help singing along to?

DT: “Gasolina” by Daddy Yankee Who was your first celebrity crush?

DT: Scarlett Johansson Would you ever join a dating app? Or meet someone online?

DT: Probably not. I like meeting in person through events or friends. Love isn’t something you order online. It’s something that should happen when you’re not looking for it. At least in my eyes. Maybe Instagram at most. But I’m really not searching at the moment.

Jacket and Jeans: Givenchy (Saks Fifth Ave) Shoes: Dr. Marten (Krupp Group)

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If I’m in a bad mood, I… DT: If I’m in a bad mood, I… like to eat… a lot!

Growing up, my brother taught me…

DT: Growing up, my brother taught me how to skateboard.

If I weren’t an actor, I’d be…

DT: If I weren’t an actor, I’d be a writer.

If I were to get a tattoo, it would be…

DT: If I were to get a tattoo, it would be “Sangre Mia.” If I had one wish for 2022, it would be…

DT: If I had one wish for 2022, it would be to smile and laugh more.

If I had a theme song, it would be…

DT: If I had a theme song, it would be “Dakiti” by Bad Bunny.

I would describe my style as…

DT: I would describe my style as: need a stylist 24/7.

What is your dream role?

DT: Dream role: First Latin “Gatsby.”

One thing that would surprise my fans is…

Favorite holiday?

DT: Halloween

DT: One thing that would surprise my fans is: I’m probably going to retire from acting soon.

Finish this sentence…

I’m the kind of texter who…

DT: I’m the kind of texter who… forgets to text back.

Sari Cohen

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INLOVE MAN

WINTER 2022

HOLLYWOOD FACES WE LOVE Paloma Garcia-Lee Rafael Cebrián Ed Quinn Diego Tinoco Olivia Ponton Jordan Fisher

THE BEST of BROADWAY

ART, BEAUTY

and

FASCINATING DESTINATIONS

Chicago Come From Away HEALTH & FASHION

WINTER

DESIGNER DREAMS Dior Van Gogh Malone Souliers

NYC is back!

CELEB RATION