LAPS OF LUX
LAPS OF LUX MAGAZINE LAUNCH
HOSTED BY MICHAEL WEKERLE
WHAT’S INSIDE...
JEFF HAMILTON
THE SHOE SURGEON
MAVANI
OD LABS
MAX JAMALI
TAV MALHOTRA
ADHRUCIA APANA
FITO BLANKO
TASTY BISTRO
JIMMY WILLIAMS
ELI & MIKE
Jimmy Williams
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABE MARDANI
STORY BY: PAUL SAINI
JIMMY WILLIAMS
JAMES
BOND OR JIMMY WILLIAMS! OUR FRIEND JIMMY WILLIAMS, CAR COLLECTOR & BUSINESS OWNER. GIVES US AN EXCLUSIVE TOUR OF HIS RARE COLLECTABLE, THE FEARLESS - PORSCHE BOAT!
WHEN IT COMES TO LUXURY,
THE MUSKOKA LAKES
ARE
LIKE NO OTHER; BILLIONAIRES ROW, LAKE JOSEPH & THE SURROUNDING BODIES OF WATER ARE HOME TO SOME OF THE HIGHEST PRICED LAKEFRONT PROPERTIES IN THE COUNTRY
Q. Tell me about when you Purchased your Porsche Boat!
Jimmy: The boat was originally in a Super-Yacht in Argentina. The boat was transported to Miami where I picked it up.
I saw the boat years ago, I loved the style and look, It took me a few years to purchase it.
Q. How many of these boats did they make?
Jimmy: This is 1/25 and of the 25, 5 are Supercharged. This is 1 of the 5 supercharged.
Q. Tell us about the boat? What makes it unique?
Jimmy: It’s a Unicorn, it’s like 1 of 25 in the world, you just don’t see another one. Donzi’s are up here everywhere, you see 50 a day. Porsche boat’s i’ve never seen another one here.
Also, this was inspired by the 2005 Carerra GT. Maybe someday I will add that to my collection.
This boat is 600 HP with the supercharger. I’ve had this for roughly 8 years. The boat reaches top speeds of approximately 95 MPH.
Q. What’s your fav. part of this boat?
Jimmy: The Design, it’s just so different. I love the Mesh on the back of the motor enclosure.
S
C A N Q R & P O I N T
“MY MOST ICONIC JACKET”
Jeff Hamilton is more than a name; he is a recognized force in the world of fashion and design. Renowned for his unparalleled craftsmanship and visionary approach, Hamilton has become a maestro in the realm of luxury outerwear. From Jordan, Kobe to Lebron, JH has broken barriers
LAPSOFLUX: You have one of the Most Iconic Sports Jackets Ever? Your Kobe Piece...
JEFF: That’s probably my most famous jacket ever, unfortunately, with the passing of Kobe & the most iconic picture in the NBA is probably Kobe having a moment after winning the championship in Philadelphia when he was in the shower, holding the trophy.
This jacket became probably my most famous it’s Los Angeles, it’s basically an evolution of the 2000 championship. This is a 2001. We used more purple. I just really want to capture the whole feeling of Los Angeles skyline and a big approach for it, just worked out so perfectly. We added all the championships throughout the years.
By far my favorite jackets, one of my top 3’s. Let’s sign this Jacket for LAPS OF LUX.
LAPSOFLUX: Tell us about your OVO Collab with The NBA?
This is a very exclusive project that we did, our second collaboration with OVO. Every single jacket is hand signed and has a limited edition patch. Every jacket came with an art piece which I personally also individually signed every original illustration. So when you get a jacket, you’re not only getting a jacket, you’re getting a collectable art-piece that goes with it. 250 Limited Jackets were released. When we do things like that, you know, some of the very limited edition jackets come with the art.
JEFF HAMILTON ADVICE
LAPSOFLUX: What advice would you give Fashion Designers ?
JEFF. You know I would just say to put your head down and keep on moving forward. Don’t sit on it, Don’t feel entitled and just appreciate what the universe has given you and maximize your potential.
LAPSOFLUX: Give us some insight on the Juice World Collab?
JEFF: This was an amazing collaboration that we did with Amazon music. We created this to honour Juice World. We decided to create a limited drop of only 100 pieces and also we released it it only
through Amazon music. Just try to honor the life of Juice World, you know, another music icon that left us way too soon. It was an honor working on this project and really exciting to be working with a limited edition collection. It was great because for this collection, we made it a bit more affordable, like wool, leather type of varsity jacket.
LAPSOFLUX: Tell us more about the design and significance?
JEFF: Some of the images I saw of him, I felt like it represented him. I worked with his managers and close with him. They gave me ideas and we wanted to portray something that he would wear himself.
DOMINIC“THE SURGEON”
WHEN YOU THINK OF LUXURY SHOES OR DESIGNERS, YOU HAVE TO THINK OF DOMINIK AS SOMEONE WHO TOOK BOTH CULTURE x LUXURY AND FUSED IT TOGETHER. DOM HAS WORKED WITH A LIST BRANDS, ATHLETES & CELEBRITIES FROM AROUND THE WORLD AND CONTINUES TO BREAK BARRIERS WITH HIS LUXURY SHOE DESIGN & CREATIVE INPUT INTO THE CULTURE.
We had a collaboration with Gucci, which is over there. This is not fully put together. But this is the products without the stitching. So this is what a shoe looks like before it’s last and finished on a sole. Then they sent us a bunch of dead stock materials that we were able to design into the shoe. I had built a sewing machine table out of marble that was in the the Gucci store for months.
CUSTOM DESIGNS
There’s like a ton of things in here that no one’s ever seen or witnessed.
How the material comes in these sheets, it comes in skins and that’s exactly what Gucci sent me.
But look $10,000. This came from the LV Illusion Bags, an authentic bag that we cut up and we made very few pairs. This is hand dyed, we did the prison bag $15,000. We cut up the prison bag and made only one.
Balenciaga, we did that shoe that everyone was upset about. It was like a $1200 shoe and it was just like it was a cheap a** shoe that was all ripped up and I wanted to play off that and do my version. The thick laces are trending and I just loved it. Then natural Python was always one of my favorites and I never had it. I’ve Coffee Died Soul. It’s, it’s one of my favorites. I’m working on. I’m working on my clothing line. we have merch but working on the clothing line. That was the one of one that I wore for the Super Bowl where we made a kimono from scratch with vintage military fabric and then we ran different materials that we’ve used in shoes from Louis to Gucci. Yeah, these are leather, Birkenstocks. It’s a fish leather Brazil.
STORY
DOMNIK: Welcome to the space. I think this is the third interview in this room.
It all started when I painted a pair of shoes and then I went to high-school. People asked, how did you get those? I said I made them & then the paint fell off. So I was like, f**k, I need to find better paint. So it was more about the quality, how do I make a better quality product? That’s where I got to how can I make the best shoe in the world?
I knew that I needed an alter ego or an alias of a name or a brand name. Originally it was shoe surgeon with the money sign and then me and my friend who started this, we had a falling out. So then I became The Shoe Surgeon.
JORDANS
DOMINIK: I used to wait in lines initially to get the Jordan’s. I was a hustler and I figured out how to get Jordan’s before they were even released. That was like a YEAH! moment I did it for myself. It was never for anyone else like I didn’t give a f**k. I just wanted it for myself. This was the very first one that my friend let me borrow back. I first wore those Jordans, then I was getting Jordans early. Once all my friends had the same shoes, we literally had to call each other. Like, what shoes are you wearing tomorrow?
This was the first Python Jordans that I made about 10 plus years ago. This is one that kind, I set the tone for Python Jordans. This is why Python is one of my favorite materials.
“ It wasn’t like make this shoe. It was like I had materials and just saw it and slapped it on the shoe and it became kind of my thing”
TEAMWORK
DOMNIK: It’s extremely important to have the right team and a team that can do many things. I’ve built this from doing everything myself to now having departments and it’s a challenging thing to do.
My most memorable part of this journey is having my kids and being able to have a team to help me maintain this infrastructure while also being a father,
COLLABS
DOMINIK: We have different collabs from JB, NFL, Old Spice. to Ruffles and an exclusive collab with Ebay. I created a Ebay pair and then I cut it to relive that moment for me. Only a few people really knew why. Ebay just did a collab with Nike last year. They actually made a shoe that is clear in between and that you could actualy wear. I made for Justin Bieber when he was on Tour.
This is the Pizza Hut. This is a completely original silhouette. I think Grant Hill was in these, in a commercial where you press the button and it orders the pizza.
BY: MARIO S.
PHOTO’S COURTESY OF AMIN MOAZZEN
“I DREAM IN COLOR
AMIN MOAZZEN IS A MASTER AT BRINGING HIS BUILDING DESIGN CONCEPTS TO LIFE. HIS ATTENTION TO DETAIL, COMPOSITION & ABILITY TO BRING HIS OUT OF THE BOX IDEAS TO REALITY HAVE GARNERED HIS INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION, 400+ CLIENTS AND A HEFTY PRICE TAG
Q. Where are you from and how did you get started in your industry?
AM. I am from Hamedan , the old capital of the Mad kingdom in Iran. I was a pro gamer from age 15 and 18 and after that I went to a small university and studied architecture in 2010 ! Then in 2011 I started to work with 3dsmax and I started to work on small projects. From 2018 I got serious at it :)
Q. What was your first commissioned design/ piece of work?
AM. It was in 2012, I designed the interior of a 5 storey apartment in Hamedan .
Q. Why did he become a designer / architect:
AM. I’m not gonna lie, At first, it was all about the money! But in 2018 I started to fall in love with Art and Architecture :)
I was a lazy boy and it was hard for me to get serious at this job. So I created my own easy rothin to do good and design as a International Pro!
Q. Tell us about your design process:
AM. I have two kinds of designs. One is commissioned and it is for the market. So I start to create the spaces and then I think what is the best for the client and then what is best for me in it ! and in a process (that normally takes between 5 and 30 days) I do the job! Two are
Personal designs. It is totally unconscious work for me. This kind of art click for me in the head, like an inspiration, Then I do a little of it sometimes & after that I create it in the software and start to complete it as I want. This is like creating a vision and it has no limits :)
Q.How Long Did It Take to Design the House of light?
AM. It was a 1 month process. I had the idea in my head about 1 month before that. So I started to get inspired about lake cabins and how they work. Then I know how I can create something Unique!
Q. What is the most expensive design that costs the most to build? How much?
AM. There is no limit in the expenses of an Architecture piece. I mean the variety of materials and expenses are very high! And in different countries it has different prices to build. In Iran, 95 percent of builders just build a cube to live in. There is no Sacrifice for creating an aesthetic space. For the other 5 percent , you can create the dream! And creating a normal-size dream work , maybe takes 500k - 1 M $ And on a large scale , maybe between 5-10 M $ !
Q. Tell us some of the client’s you’ve worked with:
AM: In these 10 years of doing this job , I have worked with more than 400 clients. Most of them were from Iran! I can’t tell their names for some reasons :)
ELI & MIKE
BY: PAUL SAINI
PHOTOS BY: @WHOISHARJIT
Eli has over 22 years of real estate mortgage experience. Within his career, he has built businesses within this space, has trained million dollar entrepreneurs and a culture that keeps molding itself with its people. Eli’s success is owed to the number of peoples lives he’s impacted, from the sales team to clients who are in need of mortgage loans.
Mike has over 8 years of real estate experience. As a realtor, he has mastered the art of real estate by ensuring his clients are offered world-class service. Implementing systems and procedures to keep the business thriving is the KEY to his way of life. A relationship magnet and able to walk into a room and empower many to manifest their dreams into reality
Laps of Lux: How does the current landscape of luxury real estate in Los Angeles offer unique investment opportunities compared to other global luxury markets
Eli & Mike: The LA marketplace is always moving quickly. It catches on to trends, fashion design and unique architectural art.
Laps of Lux: What are some key considerations for international buyers interested in investing in luxury real estate in Los Angeles?
Eli & Mike: The LA marketplace is always moving quickly. It catches on to trends, fashion design and unique architectural art.
Laps of Lux: What are some key considerations for international buyers interested in investing in luxury real estate in Los Angeles?
Eli & Mike: LA happens to be occupied by more than 60% of international and non US origin buyers. This is a safe place to invest into real estate due to LAs very unique appreciation values due to its location and proximity to divine locations.
Laps of Lux: When it comes to your Experience & Expertise in real estate, what has made you so successful with-in real estate? What key principles would you share to the audience that could help them?
Eli & Mike: Being consistent with our buyers and sellers has kept us on our feet. We take not one client for granted. All of us come in different packages and we are here to fulfill the very wish of homeownership for each person that crosses our path. As principles, we honor: Integrity, Open landscape of negotiation, financial support, and knowledge advice.
Laps of Lux: Can you provide insights into the current trends driving the luxury real estate market in Los Angeles, particularly in terms of architectural styles and amenities?
Eli & Mike: Due to the rate and value market, including the limited inventory, it all comes to strategy. Better lighting in the home, paint, luxury and ambiance feels, visuals of the city, open floorplan, turnkey homes. This is the focus point to selling in todays market at the price you seek.
Laps of Lux: Share some strategies for investors or buyers to tap into new potential spots within Los Angeles, what cities are promising, what opportunities do you see? How can they find out more?
Eli & Mike: Location, location, location. This differs in the desires for everyone. Some want the beach, others the mountains of LA/ Hollywood/Malibu. It truly depends so much on the actual fascination that the buyer wants. First step is to contact us for an evaluation of your needs and we take it from there.
Laps of Lux: Tell us about your Eli & Mike Podcast, When did it begin, what’s the journey like and who have you featured that you have learned from so much from.
Eli & Mike: We began our podcast in 2023. Due to the nature of many people not getting enough information out there in the world of real estate. We learn from influencers, real estate professionals, mentors and many others. We have featured some such as Jay Brewer, Thomas Wu, Sean Kelly, Richie Rich, Emmon Khan, Alexis Fawx, Rick Carruth, Johnny Chang, Hector Padilla, Minh Nguyen (whatsamortgage), Snewj, Kerri Kasem, Esther Anaya, and many more.
Laps of Lux: You guys are really into Fashion & Art, tell us about your style, the energy and what it makes you feel?
Eli & Mike: We follow trends. That simple. We look for the best fashion wardrobes we can wear everyday. We do like to be EXTRA in our attire. We dress from thet top of our hair all the way to our unique shoes. We care about our health, mind, body and soul. You can expect our energy to fill a room with positivity, and certain a glossy finish.
Laps of Lux: What luxury brands do you guys most love, why and what makes them unique from other brands?
Eli & Mike: We love, love Dolce Gabbana, Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton and Gucci, plus others.
RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS:
TOP FASHION DESIGNER: Stefano Gabbana
TOP LUXURY HOME TO LIVE IN? A luxury home with extreme views of the beach and city
TOP CITY TO LIVE IN? Beverly Hills
TOP NEIGHBOURHOOD TO LIVE IN? Beverly Hills
TOP ARCHITECT YOU LOVE MOST? Not selected
FAV CAR: Rolls Royce
DREAM CAR: Rolls Royce
HIGHEST PROPERTY YOU SOLD: wont disclose
MOST LUXURY PROPERTY YOU SOLD: wont disclose
CELEBRITY CLIENT? Wont disclose
A Pioneer is Augmented Reality Innovation, having collaborations with Music Stars and Web3 Influencers, the success of OD Labs is due to their commit- ment to pushing the boundaries of technology and reality. Seam- lessly blending the virtual and physical realms to create un- paralleled user experiences, OD Labs has worked with artists like A Boogie and Web 3 personalities like Farkokh from Rug Radio, and they are just getting started.
Q. Origins of ‘OD,’ its inception, and the development that led to the creation of OD Labs.
GG: In 2019, we launched our company, OD, which is the umbrella company to ODToronto, OD.Unofficial, and ODLabs. Our flagship store, OD Toronto, located in the heart of Downtown Toronto’s fashion district, Queen st. West. Specializing in rare collectible streetwear and art toys. For more info on ODToronto you can visit our website: www.ODTO.com | odlabs.io
Within our creative hub, we’ve launched OD.Unofficial, an inhouse fashion and lifestyle brand that we design and produce right here in Toronto, Canada.
On the tech side, we launched ODLabs, our AR/XR division. It is the Web2/Web3 AR tech division where our focus is on developing Digital Assets, crafting immersive AR activations, and merging the physical and digital realms.
Tetra is the original founder, owner, and artist behind OD, OD.Unofficial, and ODLabs. @Bat.not.Bad is one of the cofounders and co-owners of ODLabs.
AR FASHION
When you think of Fashion, we wear certain things because it makes us Feel Good but it’s also a signalling mechanism that help express ourselves to other people.
AR is another added layer to express yourself through fashion. As the technology develops and we see more AR glasses being integrated in our daily lives like Apple Pro. These AR extensions to our fashion will be more and more easily activated in our daily lives. So imagine walking down the street and you are wearing AR glasses and you don’t just see the Hoodie, but a Hoodie with AR Wings coming out the back.
I believe soon brands will start implementing “Wear to Earn” models for their products through AR advertisements.
Not everything has to have an AR Layer, there needs to be a purpose for the AR experience that elevates the product
Ark 33 is the first Mixed reality game that lives on Instagram. No need to create a profile, download anything, or link your wallet. It is a free to play game we created to show the power your phone already possesses when it comes to AR/XR.
There were 7 levels in total. At the end of each level, a phrase was revealed. First to complete all 7 levels and submit all 7 phrases received the seed phrase to the wallet containing the prize, 1 Bitcoin
33 limited edition physical Arks were sent to our top community members, containing clues that could help them solve the puzzle for 1 bitcoin. These Arks also contained limited edition 1 of 1 art and unreleased fashion pieces.
CREATIVES
WHAT ARE YOUR TWO FAV. OR MOST MEMORABLE AR PROJECTS YOU’VE DONE?
ABOOGIE - To celebrate his latest album release ‘Me vs Myself’, and as part of his North American tour, we partnered with Warner Music Canada and A Boogie with an exclusive pop-up and meet & greet at our flagship store ODToronto on February 21, 2023. For this event, ODLabs also collaborated with A Boogie to release a limited edition augmented reality hoodie which featured a QR code on the sleeve that direct those who scanned it to a digital dashboard that unlocked a 3D augmented reality experience putting A Boogie’s music on full display.
RUG RADIO - We at ODLabs collaborated with Rug Radio for an IRL event at our flagship store ODToronto on August 4, 2023. Being that Rug Radio is based out of Montreal and we’re from Toronto, we saw it as a great opportunity to throw an event highlighting both Canadian web3 brands and bring together artists, designers, crypto and NFT collectors all under one roof for a great day of fun and networking.
BY: WAJ ARSHAD
ARK 33
OD ALCHEMY DENIM JACKET
A DRIVING FORCE IN THE AUTOMOTIVE WORLD, WE SIT DOWN WITH CONTENT CREATOR AND ENTREPRENEUR RUKHSAR TO TALK ABOUT HER CONTENT CREATION AND JOURNEY.
BY: PAUL SAINI
PHOTO’S COURTESY OF RUKHSAR
ADVICE CONTENT CREATION
RUKHSAR: When it comes to Photo or Video shoots, you have to be aware of the time, they can take longer if you are unprepared. When I am working with a creative team, things can be easier to script and deliver.
When it comes to Automotive content, I want to ensure i’m doing something new, original and creative that can capture the audiences attention.
Q. What 3 characteristics make for a great influencer?
RUKHSAR: CREATIVE, DEDICATED, RISK TAKER!
RUKHSAR: I would say to just believe in yourself. Take a chance, roll the dice, give it a shot! You never know the outcome and what it could do for you or your brand.
When I look back, this was never my plan, but I was open to trying out new things. One day im infront of the Camera hosting a video, the next day it’s at 1m Views. Being infront of the camera is tough, you can be shy and scared, but you have to try like no one is watching.
Q What are some of your Biggest Videos? Why?
RUKHSAR: One of my videos hit 60M views for a client, and that was because we took a chance at doing something unique.
Max Jamali
Augmented Reality Art
“ART TO LIFE” WITH MAX JAMALI
I am a mixed media artist based in Toronto, Canada, with my art- work showcased in Toronto, Miami, NewYork, Los Angeles, Paris and Dubai. Known for using butterflies as an expression of positivity, hope and transformation on my artworks and sculptures
I COLLECT...
My art, specially the new translucent butterfly sculptures I aunched during my show at Modern Sense in Toronto and Miami Art Basel 2023, are created to extend the beauty of its surrounding. Most of my custom designs are created by incorporating existing colour pallets within the environment my artworks are going to be installed in
To be honest with you, every project I create has its own unique moments. Every step of bringing ideas to life for me is such a beautiful journey and the most exciting part is sharing those designs during my launch events and see people’s expressions of them.
WHAT
INSPIRED YOU TO MAKE AR ART? THE BUTTERFLY PROJECT.
During the NFT boom in 2020, I built a team to create Augmented Reality for my physical artworks, with the goal of tokenizing. Since then, seeing how my clients enjoy the interactive Augmented Realities on my designs, I decided to keep them as an extension of all my artworks
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUNG ARTIST COMING IN THE GAME?
Leaning the business side of art is extremely crucial. Since about seven years ago, when I launched my career an an artist, I have been constantly investing in marketing and branding courses and seminars. As an artist, I learned early on how important it is to focus on both creative and business side of my art equally.
PORTFOLIO
WHAT IS THE MOST EXPENSIVE PIECE YOU CREATED?
“The Enigma” is a 8 feet tall butterfly sculpture, I launched during Miami Art Basel 2023. This original ultra-luxury sculpture called “The Enigma”—is layered with five carats of genuine diamonds and three layers of diamond dust and crystals. The Enigma is my first one-of-one, ultra-luxury sculpture at this large scale. It’s valued at $100,000 US.
HOW HAS YOUR ART EVOLVED?
I would say the idea of creating sculptures was to venture into different forms of expression to challenge myself and explore new creative avenues. I always looked at my art as an extension of interior design, and I wanted to design a sculpture that would use the colours and textures of its surroundings to complete that space.
AR ARTWORK
MAX JAMALI X PLAYBOY
IT WAS EXCITING TO CREATE THESE LIMITED PLAYBOY SCULPTURES!
HAIR AND MAKEUP IS CHRISTINA PETRY
STYLIST IS VENK MODUR
RAYYAN UMRANI - BRAND STRATEGY
PHOTOGRAPHER: MUHAMMAD HAMED
DESIGNER: ATELIER N’DIGO
SHOES: FRANCO SARTO
BAG: CARRAT23
FUNDING YOUR FILM
Take your time to understand each piece of your finance plan, how it works, what the costs are, how you get paid, how your investors make money, and then structure films in a way so that the market can actually support you having a profitable financial exit for all involved. I know that seems basic but if I had a penny for every producer that doesn’t understand the financial aspects of structuring their own films, I would be very very rich.
At some point in history, we as creatives decided that we would be happy to let someone else worry about the finance side of our creative. All this did was put us at risk because if a film doesn’t perform, you are the one who is no longer financeable. I promise all creatives reading this that you are perfectly capable of understanding the financial side of film. Start asking questions. They will make you a better filmmaker. Because of this deep divide between the financing and creative players in film there are a lot of inefficiencies that exist in the funding of projects throughout the industry. It’s my hope that as blockchain becomes more widely utilized in our banks and capital systems that some of these inefficiencies will be eliminated as they become more transparent to the parties involved.
CANNES
Q. As someone who has attended the Cannes Film Festival, what are your thoughts on the festival’s impact on the film industry and its significance for filmmakers?
Adhrucia: The impact of Cannes on the film industry is multifaceted. Firstly, it’s a major market where deals are made, and films are bought and sold. This commercial aspect is crucial for the distribution and funding of films. Secondly, the festival serves as a trendsetter, influencing what types of films get attention and acclaim. The films that win awards or receive critical praise at Cannes often set the tone for the film industry for the year ahead.
For filmmakers, Cannes represents an unparalleled opportunity for exposure. Having a film screened at Cannes can be a career-defining moment. It can lead to wider distribution, increased funding opportunities for future projects, and collaborations with other artists and industry professionals met during the festival. Additionally, the festival’s various workshops and panels provide valuable learning experiences and insights into the industry.
FILM FESTIVAL CANNES
WELCOME TO THE INSIDE PERSPECTIVE OF FILM!
TAKE A DEEPER DIVE INTO FINANCING, FILM & SCRIPTS!
Can you share some insights into the challenges and opportunities you've encountered while building your production brand?
I think the greatest challenge in the film/tv industry is also an opportunity. Technology and the world are changing at such a rapid pace right now that it is hard as a business to keep up and ahead of the curve. This applies to everyone from the biggest studios to the smallest creators. Trends and infrastructure in the media industry used to change quarterly or annually 10 years ago, now both change daily so you have to be nimble and able to quickly adapt as a storyteller and business owner to meet the demands of the market. These rapid changes are also opportunities for growth and improvement, if we find ways to work with changes, not against them.
What do you have in store for 2024? Films?
I have a screenplay I wrote going into production this year which is very exciting for me as a creative. Cannes was a big market for us. Like all small and mid-tier film companies, we are just fully recovering from the delays laid upon us by the strike and pandemic. As a result, our next film, an interim agreement approved strike film that we financially supported, will premiere in August starring Sylvester Stallone and our next creative production will start filming 4th quarter 2024. Our TV show with the creator of Ozark will now, post strike, film in Spain by end of year. This year, we will also be entering into distribution for the first time so we will release three to four other titles. Look for announcements in late June or early July of our full slate! I can’t say much for now, but it’s stacked with some of your favorite movie stars and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the exceptional stories we are telling.
Our podcast called, “Storyteller Studio,” is part of our new division for talk shows “Conversations with Curiosity” and aired its first season on Ruckus Avenue Radio and iHeart radio exclusively. It will now be re-released on all platforms and you can find full episodes on YouTube and on all platforms under Curiosity’s Storyteller Studios.
Designer: Bethel Helena
Hair and makeup is Christina Petry
Stylist is Venk Modur Rayyan Umrani - Brand Strategy Photographer: Muhammad Hamed
DESIGNER: EMA SAVAHL COUTURE
HAIR AND MAKEUP IS CHRISTINA PETRY
STYLIST IS VENK MODUR
RAYYAN UMRANI - BRAND STRATEGY
PHOTOGRAPHER: MUHAMMAD HAME
DESIGNER: BETHEL HELENA
SHOES: WILLA PHEONIX
CLUTCH: AZAZIE
Hair and makeup is Christina Petry
Stylist is Venk Modur
Rayyan Umrani - Brand Strategy
Photographer: Muhammad Hamed
Dress: Cristallini
Q
FILM PRODUCER
A s a s u c c e s s f u l e n t r e p r e n e u r , w h a t k e y s t r a t e g i e s o r p r i n c i p l e s
h a v e c o n t r i b u t e d t o y o u r b u s i n e s s ' s g r o w t h a n d s u c c e s s ?
A d h r u c i a : N e v e r b e a f r a i d t o a s k f o r h e l p N o o n e k n o w s e v e r y t h i n g & T H A T
I S O K A Y !
2 ) T h e r e a r e m a n y f o u r - l e t t e r w o r d s t h a t w e n e e d t o s u r v i v e , F E A R i s n o t o n e
o f t h e m A n y t i m e y o u f e e l f e a r , b e c u r i o u s l e a n i n t o w h a t i t i s a b o u t , f i n d
t h e r o o t o f t h e e m o t i o n , a n d r e l e a s e i t
3 ) L a s t l y , t h e r e i s n o s u c h t h i n g a s a s t u p i d q u e s t i o n P e o p l e a r e a f r a i d o f
a s k i n g q u e s t i o n s b e c a u s e t h e y f e a r t h e y a r e t h e o n l y o n e i n a r o o m t h a t d o e s n ' t k n o w t h e a n s w e r b u t a s k q u e s t i o n s w i t h c o n f i d e n c e I t ' s o k a y t o b e
h u m b l e a n d a d m i t w h a t y o u d o n ' t k n o w . I t l e a v e s r o o m f o r o t h e r s t o h e l p
s u p p o r t y o u , s h a r e t h e i r k n o w l e d g e a n d h e l p y o u b e c o m e b e t t e r a s a n
e n t r e p r e n e u r . M a s t e r t h o s e a n d y o u a r e h a l f w a y t o t r u e s u c c e s s .
Q . C a n y o u s h a r e s o m e i n s i g h t s i n t o t h e c h a l l e n g e s a n d o p p o r t u n i t i e s y o u ' v e e n c o u n t e r e d w h i l e b u i l d i n g y o u r p r o d u c t i o n b r a n d ?
A d h r u c i a : I t h i n k t h e g r e a t e s t c h a l l e n g e i n t h e f i l m / t v i n d u s t r y i s a l s o a n o p p o r t u n i t y T e c h n o l o g y a n d t h e w o r l d a r e c h a n g i n g a t s u c h a r a p i d p a c e r i g h t n o w t h a t i t i s h a r d a s a b u s i n e s s t o k e e p u p a n d a h e a d o f t h e c u r v e T h i s a p p l i e s t o e v e r y o n e f r o m t h e b i g g e s t s t u d i o s t o t h e s m a l l e s t c r e a t o r s T r e n d s a n d i n f r a s t r u c t u r e i n t h e m e d i a i n d u s t r y u s e d t o c h a n g e q u a r t e r l y o r a n n u a l l
MANSHA PLAN WITH
TAV MALHOTRA
Q: In the face of failure or setbacks, how do you maintain your resilience and stay motivated to persevere with your entrepreneurial journey?
TAV: Sit with your emotions. This too shall pass, as the saying goes. You don’t fail when you learn from a situation. You fail when you give up. Take failure and setbacks as one more clue toward figuring out the puzzle. Never stop trusting yourself
Q: Best financial advice you can provide the everyday person?
TAV: Invest in yourself. Look the part, feel the part, and put yourself in a position to meet the caliber of people you want to meet. Successful people only want to deal with like-minded people.
Q. How do you balance calculated risk-taking with maintaining the stability and continuity of your business operations
TAV: Taking risks is how I got here, no different than most of my clients. But at stage, it’s about employing smart people to protect what I’ve built. When I had less to lose, it was easier to keep rolling the dice. Now you have to think twice, thrice, and a fourth time about the ripple effects of every outcome
Q: Tell us about your love for the NBA, ?
TAV: I just love the game. The excitement and energy of being in a stadium. The people I’ve met and the experiences I’ve had with the game, I’m so grateful. The league has taken me on a journey from being a fan to learning the business of basketball and being able to solve problems for athletes and entertainers. It truly is the greatest league in the world and basketball is one of my true obsessions
Q. Give us some insight on your Pro-Am in Toronto & Vancouver? How much does financial literacy mean to athletes & entertainers coming into the industry?
We do it for the kids, really.I remember not being able to afford a ticket when my favourite players were in town and the Proams open that up. This platform has brought out the likes of Scottie Barnes, Malachai Flynn, Isaiah Thomas, Prayton Pritchard, Darius Garland, Metta World Peace, Dennis Smith Jr, Kenyon Martin Jr, and a list of several NBA players to local courts in Toronto and Vancouver. It’s been the biggest summer showcase of basketball annually. Period. We use the platform to raise funds for youth financial literacy programs tailored to student athletes. We’re thankful for Ekam Nagra and Ball Don’t Stop for partnering with us to help local communities
Q. What strategies do you employ to foster innovation and keep your products or services relevant in a rapidly changing market?
TAV: The short answer is, I employed my son/CEO - Jagneet Malhotra and nephew/COO - Hardi Anand. Their young bright minds keep me ahead of the curve
Certain fundamentals will always stand true in any environment so I’ve always kept a good range of people around me. I have friends 20 years older than me and 30 years younger than me, which gives me exposure to future while maintaining the the principles of business in any environment . For me, day to day fundamentals combined with a persistence to innovate the future is the key to staying relevant
RAPID FIRE WITH TAV:
Trait that makes a good leader: Leading by example Best Athlete of All Time: Kobe Bryant
Top Sports Car: Buggati
Favourite Travel Destination: Lake Cuomo
Top 3 Fashion Brands: Balmain, Louboutin & Armani
1 thing we need to know about financial literacy: How compounding works
Top NBA Experience: My birthday espresso martinis being spilled courtside, a moment that ended up on national television, embarssingly
Biggest motivation: Today’s the the healthiest and youngest I’ll ever be.
“Success is nothing without the people around you to share it with, family and close friends.”
MAVANI
C E L E B R I T Y J E W E L E R
KING OF NEW YORK CITY
CUSTOM JEWELR OUTSHINING SPECALIST
BY: PAUL SAINI
Laps of Lux: Tell us about Eric Mavani?
Mavani: Eric Mavani is a high-end jewellery designer. I cater to high-end networks, celebrities around the world. We focus on high-end jewellery mostly.
Laps of Lux: Who was your first client that put you on the Map?
Mavani: The first client that gave me my jump-start, was DMX. He was the first artist I ever met and worked with. I grew up listening to his Music and he was a big motivation for me. When I finally met him, I was kinda star-struck, never really met a lot of celebrities at that time. He than took me with him to a Concert, Rock-The-Bell that had Big Sean, 2 Chains, Method Man, JadaKiss and I got a chance to meet them all back-stage and that gave me the motivation to start networking and dealing with Artists.
The next big artists I came across were 50 Cent and Snoop Dogg, those 2 really helped me out and started my Career.
Laps of Lux: What drives you to continue?
Mavani: Always trying to compete with myself, If i made a piece now, the next one has to be better. I’m always trying to be more and more creative and be able to create the coolest designs ever. Pushing the brand and innovating, I don’t like being like the rest of the jewellers, selling the same old stuff, cuban chains and rings. I want to create unique links and use coloured stones, it’s like Art to me.
Laps of Lux: What advice would you give new Jewellers?
Mavani: When I came into the industry, instagram was just starting out, I kinda grew with instagram. If you start out, it’s not easy, you’re going to have to go through a lot of obstacles. If you want to cater to celebrities it is not as easy as it looks, just meeting them is tough. You’ll have to find the right connections, and taking care of those who put you in position. It’s a whole step by step process. You’re going to have to give some incentive, or free Piece for the celebrities to promote them.
Laps of Lux: What principles are most important for Entrepreneurs?
Mavani: You have to be a people person, you’re going to have to learn to work with a clientele. You’re going to have to be patient, when someone tells you no, it should just give you more strength and motivation to do better and come back harder. Business does not stop, there are many obstacles that are going to tear you down, you can’t stop.
RAPID FIRE
Q. FAV CAR TO DRIVE:
A. Ferrari SF90
Q. FAV CAR TO BE DRIVEN IN:
A. The New Maybach
Q. FAV WATCH:
A. Richard Mille, Patek Philippe & Audemars Piguet
Q. MOST EXPENSIVE PURCHASE:
A. RM Wwatch, $5,000,000. Sapphire, 1/1.
You know jewellery is always innovating in design. We are now focusing on Asher Cuts, Marquee Stones, and making pieces out of those kinds of cuts. We will soon be launching our own watch. Jewellery in jewellery, it’s timeless. Diamonds are forever.
Wherever you are in life, whatever journey you want to take. Don’t let anyone tell you, you can’t do it. Don’t take no for an answer. Keep on breaking doors down, and not allowing anyone to block you off. You have to fight your way through, because in any industry you get into, there will be competition and they will not want you to step into their field. Basically they want to eliminate that competition, so you have to keep going. Non Stop
FITO BLANKO MUSIC ICON
LAPS OF LUX: WHO IS FITO BLANKO?
Fito: I’m an award-winning Panamanian-Canadian Latin recording artist, a pioneer of Latin urban music in Canada, an advocate for Latin music and culture, and a dreamer.
LAPSOFLUX: TELL US ABOUT YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS DURING A PROJECT YOU CREATED?
Fito: I’ve had some pretty cool moments like performing at EDC Mexico, presenting at the Latin Grammy Awards and being an ambassador for the Pan Am Games.
One of the most memorable moments I have was working with Bishop Brigante on a song featuring Snoop Dogg back in 2008. Bishop had just signed a contract with BODOG and was working out of my studio in Scarborough. That night, Bishop invited a group of Toronto mixtape rappers and producers to join us for the Snoop remix. There was so much talent in that room: Bishop, Sensei Musica, Boi 1da, Roxx, Ken Masters, Hush (Young Tony), and Drake. It was one of those nights that felt like we could achieve anything. We were all just kids then, but seeing how far everyone has come since makes that night all the more special.
LAPSOFLUX: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO MAKE MUSIC? HOW DID THE “FAST AND FURIOUS” SOUNDTRACK COME ABOUT?
Fito: I was greatly inspired by Panamanian and Jamaican reggae artists, the pioneers of Latin urban music like Renato, El General, and Nando Boom, as well as Puerto Rican underground mixtapes such as The Noise and Playero. Artists like Shabba Ranks, Cutty Ranks, Super Cat, Yellow Man, Buju Banton, and Beenie Man were also major influences while growing up in 90s Toronto. Fashion-wise, we rocked Starter jackets, Fila kicks, Karl Kani jeans, and Wallabees. Wutang, Biggie, 2Pac, Nas, Jay Z, Fugees, Dr. Dre, Snoop, Eminem, and DMX dominated pop culture; MTV was my go-to news source—I absorbed it all like a sponge.
As for Meneo, the song was finished and released two years before the movie Furious 7 dropped. Producer I am Chino was in town while on tour with Pitbull and stopped by the studio. I remember Chino, Sensei Musica, and Jorgie (Mr 305 Inc producer) working on the music while I conceptualized the song and melodies. The song was released in 2013 and submitted for the movie that same year but production on the film paused due to Paul Walker’s passing. Eventually, it was selected for the movie soundtrack when production resumed. By 2015, streaming services like Pandora, Spotify, and apps like Shazam played a huge role in the international success of “Meneo.” I loved how the song was used in the film, a feel good scene with Paul Walker playing with his kid by the beach, magical!
Focus on your craft, find a mentor, trust your instincts, and rehearse rigorously for performances. Make every opportunity count.
LAPSOFLUX: WHO ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST NAMES IN THE INDUSTRY THAT YOU HAVE WORKED WITH? WHAT PROJECTS CAN WE TAP INTO?
FITO: I’ve worked with a lot of great artists, collaborating and remixing tracks with Pitbull, Sak Noel, Fat Joe, Elvis Crespo, Shakira, Enrique Iglesias, Rick Ross and J Balvin, Jowell, J Avarez, Gente de Zona among others. I feel blessed to have played a role on so many projects, big and small.
FITO BLANKO
WHAT’S NEW?
FITO: I’m back in the studio, recording new music for a fresh project. I’m on a mission to bring the party back and make clubs fun again, changing the music frequency. Follow all my social media accounts Fito Blanko. I like connecting with my online community.
LAPSOFLUX: WHO ARE YOUR TOP 3 MUSIC ARTISTS OF ALL TIME?
FITO: I’ll give you my top 5 in no particular order: Kanye, Sean Paul, Pitbull, Daddy Yankee, and Hector Lavoe.
LAPSOFLUX: WHO ARE YOUR TOP 3 MUSIC ARTISTS OF ALL TIME?
FITO: Toronto, Miami, and Mexico.
LAPSOFLUX: FAVORITE MUSIC PRODUCER?
FITO: My dream producer is Timbo. I’d love to hear what a Timbo shatta dancehall beat sounds like.
TASTY
MEET THE VISIONARY ENTREPRENEURS BEHIND TASTY BISTRO, AN EXTRAORDINARY CULINARY VENTURE THAT HAS LEFT AN INDELIBLE MARK ON VANCOUVER’S VIBRANT RESTAURANT SCENE.
TASTY INDIAN BISTRO
THE RELENTLESS PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE, INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES, AND AN UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO DELIVERING EXCEPTIONAL DINING EXPERIENCES, THESE ENTERPRISING INDIVIDUALS HAVE CRAFTED A REMARKABLE BRAND THAT HAS CAPTIVATED THE PALATES OF LOCALS AND VISITORS ALIKE. JOIN US AS WE DELVE INTO THE INSPIRING JOURNEY OF THE MASTERMINDS BEHIND TASTY BISTRO, WHOSE UNWAVERING DEDICATION AND ENTREPRENEURIAL ACUMEN HAVE FOREVER CHANGED THE CULINARY LANDSCAPE OF VANCOUVER.
GET TO KNOW HOW THEY DID IT!
Q: Tell the readers about yourself? Who is Tasty Bistro?
TASTY: My name is Harman Basutta and I am the Director of Marketing and Co-owner of Tasty Indian Bistro. Being raised in a family who has generations of culinary experience, it was intriguing to learn the ins and outs of the business from an early age. I was fortunate to learn from people who had been attached to the industry for 50 plus years. Avtar Saini, (My Grandfather) was the greatest mentor to myself as he taught me to be dedicated, passionate and honest in life.
Q: When it comes to Starting a business, what are 3 key factors that can determine a business’s success?
TASTY: Our core values at Tasty Bistro are built from a foundation of innovation, team building, and guest satisfaction. Every guest visiting a Tasty Bistro
establishment needs to leave with full satisfaction after their experience.
Q: What advice would you give entrepreneurs who are looking to get into the Food / Restaurant business?
TASTY: Our most fruitful advice would be to building the right people who care as much as you do about the hospitality industry, that way you can never lose.
Q. What’s next for Tasty Bistro and your businesses? What can we expect?
TASTY: We are currently in the anticipation of concluding the construction of our third restaurant with the opening in Feb 2024. After we launch that, we have a vision for rapid expansion with the Tasty Brand through different culinary ventures which will be announced fairly soon.
Q: Tell us about some of the things you like to collect?
TASTY: Recently, myself and my partner/uncle Inder Saini have began to collect cars as a hobby. We realized that it was one thing we both liked and it gave us time to spend outside of the fast paced restaurant lifestyle. Nothing better than going on a nice drive.
Q: How does it make you feel after working so hard to get your dream car?
TASTY: It feels great! More than the car, it’s the joy of looking behind and seeing how far we have come as a family. Also creating new contacts within the car community is always fun. Like minded individuals and conversations.
Q. When it comes to Luxury Cars, What is your next purchase?
TASTY: The car market is very tricky as the allocations solely depend on timing and relationships. Have a lot of exciting cars on order but if I had to narrow it down to one it would be the Ferrari SF90 Spider or The Aston Martin Valhalla.
TASTY INDIAN BISTRO
FOUNDED BY HARMAN & HIS FAMILY WITH AN UNWAVERING PASSION FOR INDIAN CUISINE AND AN EXCEPTIONAL UNDERSTANDING OF CUSTOMER PREFERENCES, TASTY BISTRO HAS EVOLVED INTO ONE OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL AND RENOWNED RESTAURANTS IN VANCOUVER.
Q. When did you begin your brand? What motivated you to start it?
TASTY: Tasty Indian Bistro was founded in 1999. The Tasty Brand had humble beginnings as a small QSR shop in a local grocery store located in Surrey, BC. The Tasty Brand was a great success which lead the whole family being a part of the operation. Three decades later, The Family pays homage to the leadership and guidance Founder Avtar Saini had left behind. With the grace of god and hardwork the family is able to lead an operation of 400 team members to serve smiles - 365 days of the year.
Q. Who do you look up to in Business? And why? What have they taught you that resonated with you?
TASTY: As a young entrepreneur in the Industry, I look up to the founders of Tao Group as their brand is very detailed and the cuisine is full of flavour.
Q. What challenges have you faced? And how did you overcome them?
TASTY: Growing up in a large family working in one business and living under one roof the most challenging part but also the most rewarding. We were always together as a unit which at times was frustrating but that is when our greatest ideas formed. Grateful for living and forming that connection with my loved ones.
Q. What are some goals you have for yourself that you want to achieve?
TASTY: Setting long term goals has always been something I don’t put my attention to much. Feel as if the satisfying feeling seems out of reach which can be motivating. As a believer in short term goals it’s usually something I manifest myself to complete or achieve within a years time frame. Always lived by the motive of bringing my short term goals to life as the rest will follow. At the moment, my goal is to build a great launch for our third location which will be the concrete foundation to our expansion plans in 2025.
Q. What are 3 major luxury items you must have?
TASTY: Haha, It would have to be 3 of the cars in my collection. Slowly growing an appetite for collecting timepieces.
RAPID FIRE:
Fav Restaurant - Nightingale in Vancouver.
Fav Dish - Pesto Basil Rigatoni
Fav Car - Porsche 918 Spyder
Most Expensive Purchase - Aston Martin Valhalla
Fav Designer Brand - Louis Vuitton
Top 5 Things about Vancouver - Freshest Air + Water Perfect medium between laid back and corporate lifestyle. Diversity in the city, Amazing food options, genuinely well mannered citizens.
THE MOST ELECTRIFYING TRAVEL GROUP IN THE WORLD. WHERE YOU CAN TAKE YOUR PERSONAL BRAND TO NEW LEVELS BY COLLABORATING ALONGSIDE SUPERSTAR INFLUENCERS FOR CREATIVE CONTENT ON SOCIAL MEDIA. OVER 50,000,000+ FOLLOWERS ATTENDED THE LAST TRIP! LET’S FIND OUT MORE!
KAMORRA LIFESTYLE
The Kamorra Lifestyle Travel and Shoot trips are curated excursions for influencers who want to explore new destinations, build their brand, take their careers to the next level and make connections that will last a lifetime.
DUBAI TRIP
A life changing experience, and that’s not me being hyperbolic. The trips starting this September in Dubai will pair established influencers with millions of followers with those who are aspiring to grow their following and we’ll all go on an epic adventure. From when you land off the plane and head to your luxury villa, you’ll be surrounded by interesting people from around the world, some with 10’s of millions of followers. Everything is taken care of, and you get to experience the best of what Dubai has to offer, like Dune bashing with ATV’s in the desert, yacht parties, visiting the gold markets and the Ferrari World theme park. Not only will it be tremendous amount of fun, but it’s also one big content creation shoot!
Who should be looking to book this trip?
Kamorra: Anyone who’s business could benefit from leveling up their personal brand. We’ll have fitness trainers, real estate agents, models, make-up artists and we even have a plastic surgeon coming! If you are making content alongside dozens of established personalities like Keith Carlos and JB Always Fresh, who have millions of followers on their own, while everybody is capturing content together in real time, how can you not dramatically increase your following?
Q. Love that, where did the idea come from?
Anthony Andretti: I’ve always been an avid traveler, having visits dozens of countries. Years ago trip to Europe where it was curated, from the moment you landed, accommodations, activities and meals were all taken care of. There’s a special type of bond you build with new people when you are exploring new places. Many of those people I still keep in touch with to this day. I was looking for a way to combine that feeling with my experience in marketing and brand building. So, I got a group of influencer friends together and curated a trip to Dubai, which was the pilot trip for Kamorra Lifestyle. Now, we’re gearing up for 3 trips to Dubai, starting in September.
TONYS CLASSIC
Meet Anthony Yakhni, the visionary behind Tony’s Classics, Renowned for his most celebrated project the 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300CE “Marlboro Edition.”into a showstopper. The “Marlboro Edition” 300CE stands as a testament to Tony’s dedication to preserving and enhancing the essence of vintage automobiles, bringing a piece of automotive history back to life for all to enjoy.
WHY MARLBORO?
ANTHONY: Marlboro’s bold and distinctive branding was a hallmark of high-performance racing during the 90s, often seen on legendary race cars and drivers. This theme not only pays homage to an era in racing history but also encapsulates the daring and adventurous spirit that Tony wanted to capture with his restoration.Coming from a Lebanese background, Tony brings a piece of his family’s heritage. The “Marlboro Edition” 300CE holds a special place in his heart, reflecting both his personal history and his family’s love for automotive excellence.
HOW DID YOU GET INTO AR?
ANTHONY: My journey into AR began as a quest to enhance the way people experience everyday activities. Fascinated by technology and its potential to create immersive experiences, I started exploring AR to find innovative ways to share my passion for automotive customization. I saw AR as a perfect medium to bridge the gap between the nostalgic era of art and the modern world of digital interaction.
HOW IS AR PART OF YOUR PROJECT?
ANTHONY: Adding a modern twist to this classic restoration, I’ve incorporated Augmented Reality (AR) into the project. It allows enthusiasts and admirers to experience the car in an entirely new way. Users can explore the Marlboro Benz in detail, view the intricate craftsmanship, and even interact with features that provide insights into the car’s history. This innovative use of AR bridges the gap between past and present, enhancing the nostalgic experience with cutting-edge technology.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR UPCOMING CAR ENTHUSIASTS?
ANTHONY: Enjoy the moment and don’t be afraid to capture your progress. The struggle is what builds you.
A TRUE PIECE OF ART
WATERDREAM 65’ CALIFORNIA THE ULTIMATE 65FT YACHT
Waterdream builds and designs premium, handcrafted aluminium boats.
