
Complexion Connoisseur



“Sugarwerks” is an artistic collaboration - feel good paintings, with a copacetic vibe that, like a jazz track, can excite your wonder from the wonderland for a few minutes out of your crazy day. These paintings are worlds painted in an artistic collaboration between Artist Oliver Corwin and Celebrity Photographer Ann Lawlor together on a walk: whimsical and mellow, along the canvas, telling abstract stories with funky characters, explosions of color, and a lot of groove - hoping to give the viewer a look into a happy world for a brief moment in time. Without preaching, the stories - also like a mysterious and deep message written on a wall - leave the viewer with food for thought.
For inquiries please call Ann Lawlor | (917) 304-4773
“The Phone Call to Time in Chamber” | 48” x 60” Mixed media on canvas | Oliver Corwin and Ann Lawlor 2023 “The Woman Looking in the Mirror” | 48” x 60” Mixed media on canvas. Oliver Corwin and Ann Lawlor 2023 Photos by Ann Lawlor “The Robots Spoke in a Language That no one Understood” | 48” x 60” Mixed media on canvas | Oliver Corwin and Ann Lawlor 2024Invest, what does this word mean to you? Perhaps it's planting seeds of financial coolness for a hotter future. I'm a fan of investing in myself and maybe you'll get inspired by this issue we've put together.
As we witness nature's miraculous transformation all around us, let us also take this opportunity to reflect on our own journey of growth and renewal. What seeds of intention will you plant in the fertile soil of possibility? What new beginnings are you ready to embrace? Whether it's embarking on a new career path, nurturing meaningful relationships, or simply cultivating a sense of joy and gratitude in our daily lives, let us approach this season with open hearts and a spirit of optimism.
So as we bid farewell to winter's chill and welcome the warmth of spring, let us embrace this season of new beginnings with enthusiasm and hope. May it be a time of growth, discovery, and endless possibilities.
Wishing you all a season filled with joy, renewal, and the promise of new beginnings.
Kindly,
SVETLANA BLASUCCI, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @MANHATTANNYCITYLIFESTYLEFranchising with us means making money and time for your life.
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Is it less expensive to rent or buy in the current market? Contact me for my FREE advice! Justine Lee-Mills, licensed Real Estate Salesperson. m 734.660.4753 jmills@corcoran.com (real estate agents affiliated with The Corcoran Group are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of The Corcoran Group. The Corcoran Group is a licensed real estate broker located at 590 Madison Ave NY, NY 10022. Equal Housing Opportunity).
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UNDERGROUND EUPHORIA: UNVEILING THE FORBIDDEN FLAVORS
ARTICLE BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRYNNE LEVY & ALEX TRUONGThe restaurants that are hard to find are usually the ones you want to experience. Step into the realm of culinary excellence as you embark on a journey of unparalleled sophistication and refinement. Welcome to an exquisite dining experience where tradition intertwines seamlessly with innovation, offering a symphony of flavors that transcend the ordinary. In the heart of Manhattan, nestled discreetly underneath the 34th Street Herald Square subway station, lies a sanctuary of Japanese gastronomy – Nōksu. The subway is iconic and the heart of this constantly restless city.
Manhattan attracts some of the most talented chefs from around the globe, each bringing their unique culinary vision and expertise to the table. These culinary virtuosos push the boundaries of gastronomy. Nōksu signifies a deep and clear valley in the mountains. Within that valley is a budding beginning with so much potential. Behind a black painted door is an intimate stark space with 14 seats. Reservations are the only way you're getting in there. The owner is Bobby Kwak and talented Chef Dae Kim, a potent partnership. Chef Dae Kim trained at Three MICHELIN Star Per Se and MICHELIN-recommended Silver Apricot before opening Nōksu. Indulge in the epitome of culinary theater as you take your place at the chef's table, where dining becomes an immersive experience like no other. Settle into your seat, mere inches away from the heart of the action, where our talented chefs transform ingredients into edible works of art right before your eyes.
As you can see the dishes are prepared with so much detail. Like admiring a Picasso painting is akin to indulging in a fine dining experience, where every brushstroke is carefully crafted, and each element is meticulously composed to create a masterpiece for the senses. Our chef is someone who really hones in on his craft. We asked him if he has a favorite dish. His response was genuine. The menu is always changing, but he loves the Surf Clam with hen egg custard, caviar and scallion. This is a dish that he created in honor of Thomas Keller's famous Oysters and Pearls dish at Per Se, found in Columbus Circle, where Dae worked. It will have your tastebuds tingling!
As you sip on fine wine or the choice of a non-alcoholic beverage and savor tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen, prepare to be mesmerized by the choreography of culinary mastery unfolding in front of you. With deft hands and meticulous attention to detail, our chefs artfully craft each dish, infusing passion and creativity into every plate. The ingredients are sourced locally and globally. For example, the venison used in one of the dishes is from Upstate New York, squid from sunny California and fish from Japan.
From the sizzle of the pans to the delicate precision of plating, every moment is a symphony of sights, sounds, and flavors that dance harmoniously together. Engage with our chefs as they share insights into their techniques and inspiration behind each creation, offering a glimpse into the artistry and dedication that defines our cuisine.
At the chef's table, dining transcends mere sustenance – it becomes a sensory journey that ignites the palate, stimulates the senses, and leaves a lasting impression long after the last bite is savored. Join Nōksu for an unforgettable gastronomic experience where the spotlight shines on the art of cooking, and you are our honored guest in the front row.
In closing, dining at Nōksu is not merely a meal; it's an exquisite journey. From the moment you step through their doors, you are enveloped in an ambiance of luxury and refinement, where every detail is thoughtfully curated to ensure a dining experience like no other.
Location: 49 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001
For Reservations: https://resy.com/cities/ny/noksu?date=2024-02-21&seats=2
GUIDING YOUR FINANCIAL LEGACY WITH PRECISION AND CARE
In a world where financial security and prosperity are paramount, navigating the complexities of wealth management requires a trusted ally by your side. Welcome to Wealth Enhancement, where they redefine the landscape of financial empowerment through personalized strategies and unwavering commitment to your success. Their team is warm and welcoming, just how you should feel walking into their office.
WHAT TYPES OF FINANCIAL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES DO YOU OFFER, AND HOW DO YOU SELECT THEM FOR CLIENTS?
We have a diverse set of financial products across fundamentally unrelated asset
classes in order to minimize risk overlap among them. We have investment products within equities, fixed income, liquid alternatives, and inflation hedge asset classes. The decision on how to select comes back to their risk tolerance and their preferences.
WHAT INVESTMENT STRATEGIES DO YOU EMPLOY TO HELP CLIENTS ACHIEVE THEIR FINANCIAL GOALS?
We customize our portfolio solutions to include both public and private investments in order to provide diversification for our clients. We utilize low-cost ETF and Mutual Fund strategies in the public investment space while utilizing a number of private solutions that are researched,
vetted and monitored by our experienced investment team.
Given the strong investment background of our firm, we are able to provide customized solutions to clients with significant concentrated positions and large capital gains exposure in order to provide tax-efficient diversification and wind-down strategies.
CAN YOU EXPLAIN YOUR FEE STRUCTURE AND ANY POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST?
Our fee is structured to align our interests with our clients. Clients pay a small percentage fee based on the assets we manage for them, and they receive comprehensive service, including financial planning, investment management, tax strategies, insurance, retirement income
planning and estate planning. There are no hidden fees for separate managers, mutual funds, or private investments.
We recognize that every client has distinct financial goals and risk tolerances. Our solutions are specifically designed to align with our clients’ preferences and maximize the potential for growth while mitigating risks. We first determine a client’s risk tolerance & liquidity needs. We look to understand a client’s cash flow situation and determine if a cash runway is needed to ensure they can make it through an economic cycle without having to potentially sell equities during a time of market volatility. We also determine how much risk a client needs to take vs. how much risk they can take. We then look to understand the client’s tax situation in order to determine an investment approach that is tax efficient, as each client’s situation can be uniquely different. We can better position instruments such as municipal bonds in portfolios where it makes sense. Once this is all understood, we identify a client’s preference for ETFs vs. mutual funds vs. individual securities, and other factors such as their desire to utilize non-traditional asset classes such as alternative investments and investments specifically designed to
hedge against inflation. Often a client may have unique investment preferences such as socially responsible investing, the use of private equity, or the wish to diversify from concentrated stock positions, all of which we are able to satisfy through our fully customizable investment platform.
WHAT IS YOUR APPROACH TO TAX PLANNING AND MINIMIZING TAX LIABILITIES FOR CLIENTS?
We take a very active approach to a client’s tax life outside of providing tax advice. While we are not Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), we are fiduciaries which means that our clients’ interests are our only interests. That said, we try to have a strong working relationship with our clients’ CPAs to provide them with accessible and accurate tax information while also building a financial plan around their tax liabilities outside of the portfolio. We also have an in-house centralized tax team that provides round-table advice to us in order to tackle complex tax situations for clients. Our Roundtable approach of tax, investment, and estate experts allows us to develop very tailored and holistic strategies not only from a portfolio perspective but also with respect to tax and estate planning. We also have expertise in the area of wealth transfer strategies in which we provide solutions that enable clients
to pass their wealth to their heirs in the most tax-efficient manner.
HOW DO YOU HANDLE CLIENT INQUIRIES, CONCERNS, AND REQUESTS FOR CHANGES TO THEIR INVESTMENT PLANS?
We are very team-oriented and ensure our clients have access to our team at any given moment. We work collectively to ensure consistency within the lives of our clients. However, we have learned that it is sometimes necessary to expect the unexpected. During these times of transition, it pays off to have a financial plan that is flexible in nature. When there are concerns or changes to an investment plan we meet with our clients to discuss the considerations that need to be addressed and then use our RoundTable approach to find the best advice and solution set from our team of experts. When clients’ goals and objectives change, these are always taken into consideration within the context of their financial plan. Given our annual review of a client’s investment policy statement, many of these concerns and changes often take place without the need for clients to be proactive with their advisor. We believe this is a strength of our process.
“We work collectively to ensure consistency within the lives of our clients.”
Winter has been a bitter cold kiss and your skin is probably thirsty or needing a refresh. Have you ever thought about nonsurgical tweakments, regular facials and great skincare as an investment in yourself? Your skin will thank you and you owe it to yourself. Think about how great you feel when you look your best. Including skin health is an important aspect of personal well-being. Self-care is not just facials and shopping. It’s also investing in yourself, making sure you are up-to-date on your physicals, and that you are healthy and investing in your mind and your future. It’s not talked about enough so let’s get into this.
Welcome Dr. Lilly-Rose Paraskevas to the conversation, a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in non-surgical rejuvenation and cosmetic dermatology. She is Associate Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center where she trains senior dermatology residents in advanced rejuvenation techniques. Dr. Rose, as most people call her, is a New York City native and a former ballerina, and grew up performing on the stages in Lincoln Center. She also attended La Guardia High School of Music and Art where she majored in Fine Arts. Starting out as a fine artist and performing artist in New York has given Dr. Rose a unique understanding of the community’s needs. New Yorkers don’t have time for downtime. They don’t want to look ‘done.’ Performers, especially, want to be discreet about the work they’ve had done.
This is where Dr.Rose comes in.
With over 16 years of experience, she can take one look at your skin and recommend how to care for and upgrade your look. Her insight will help you want to feel good in your skin. Some of the procedures she prides herself in are scar treatments, non-surgical hair restoration, panfacial balancing with fillers, liquid rhinoplasty with filler and laser facials. Being a mom of three, her favorite make-overs are for moms, who often neglect themselves while they’re putting other people first. She's here to give those moms, like her, the attention they deserve. Often times it feels like when somebody comes in for their cosmetic treatments or their follow-ups. It’s a lot like a therapy session. This is what makes her stand out from injectors in Manhattan.
Nestled within the bustling streets of Manhattan, lies an oasis of serenity and sophistication – the epitome of refined elegance in dermatological care. Stepping into this sanctuary, one is immediately enveloped by an aura of tranquility and understated luxury. Dr Rose really paid attention to aesthetics.
The reception area, adorned with sleek furnishings and soft ambient lighting, exudes a sense of modern sophistication. Guests are welcomed by a team of impeccably attired staff, each exuding warmth and professionalism.
Beyond the reception area, a long pristine hallway leads to several private treatment rooms bathed in fluorescent light, offering a serene retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Here, every detail has been meticulously curated to create an atmosphere of solace and restfulness.
“When it comes to facial balancing, Dr. Rose insists the best injectable is undetectable.”
“Dr. Rose gets the patients with challenging anatomy; they cannot go to just any tox in the box chain and if they ever have, they regretted it!”
When it comes to facial balancing, Dr. Rose insists the best injectable is undetectable; you should look refreshed but no one will know why. Pan facial balancing, if done to desired goals at first, can then be maintained once a year.
Neurotoxin can be done a few times a year; Dr. Rose gets the patients with challenging anatomy; they cannot go to just any tox in the box chain and if they ever have, they regretted it! What does it do? It works by blocking nerve impulses to facial muscles and causing them to relax, thereby smoothing wrinkles formed by frowning, squinting, and other facial expressions She also has done neurotoxin on working actors in order to improve their performance. Those are highlighted on her Instagram page.
For skin quality, Dr. Rose recommends a laser facial at least once a quarter, if not monthly. A more intense resurfacing procedure can be done a couple of times a year, depending on how much sun damage you accumulate, but it does involve a few days of downtime.
Most of Dr. Rose’s patients come in for a laser facial and combine it with a facial or hydrafacial(™ ) procedure before it which allows the laser to go deeper into the skin. Consistent laser facials are important for maintaining healthy skin because they promote the emergence of fresh, radiant skin and regular facials will prevent the accumulation of impurities, oil, and debris, keeping pores clear and skin glowing.
Facials and laser treatments can significantly improve your well-being by providing both physical and mental benefits. Beyond the immediate skin-deep effects, these treatments can promote relaxation, stress reduction, and increased self-confidence. The pampering and attention received during a facial or treatment can help alleviate anxiety and tension, leading to a greater sense of overall well-being. Additionally, the improved
skin condition and enhanced appearance can boost self-esteem and contribute to a more positive self-image. Investing in these self-care practices can lead to improvement in both physical and emotional well-being.
Restorative Peeling! Let's discuss. Chemical peels exfoliate the epidermis, and as a result, you have epidermal and dermal regeneration. They increase cell turnover and are great at lifting stains left by acne or rashes, smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles, clearing up active acne and tightening pores. People often forget to treat other areas like their neck, chest, back and arms. This results in a lot of sun damage accumulating in those areas with lots of discoloration and sun spots, and the dreaded blackheads that are so big they are mistaken for moles!
Regular skin checks are best done at least once a year to screen for skin cancer. If a patient has acne, psoriasis or eczema their regimens are tweaked at least twice a year to account for skin responses to changes in weather and stress. The best advice from the Dr to keep your skin age-proof is to apply SPF, monthly facials, retinoids, botox, fillers and laser facials.
I’ve come to observe Dr. Rose’s work quite a few times and it made me want to be her patient. Correction, I am her patient. Her professionalism and awareness are truly comforting. From the mouths of other patients, they can all agree that she is truly knowledgeable, patient and a really good listener to your concerns. If you don't believe me go to read for yourself her customer testimonials. Experience the results yourself by booking with Dr. Rose. Investing in yourself is something you will never regret. If you want to start, book a consultation today.
Location: 60 Gramercy Park N # 1A, New York, NY 10010
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rosedermnyc/ Email: rosedermnyc@gmail.com
Phone: (833) 404-3376
LEARN MORE: Often times when somebody comes in for their cosmetic treatments or their follow-ups, it’s a therapy session for them. This is what makes her stand out from injectors in Manhattan.
@ROSEDERMNYC
A well-structured financial plan goes beyond mere wealth accumulation; it also focuses on optimizing tax efficiency. Taxes can significantly erode investment returns if not managed effectively. Crafting a tax-efficient financial plan involves strategic allocation of assets, understanding tax implications, and leveraging available tax-saving strategies.
“Tax-loss harvesting involves strategically selling investments at a loss to offset capital gains and reduce taxable income.”
Let's delve into some key considerations for developing such a plan. Asset allocation plays a pivotal role in tax efficiency.
By diversifying investments across various asset classes such as stocks, bonds, real estate, and alternative investments, individuals can mitigate tax risks. For instance, holding tax-efficient assets like municipal bonds in taxable accounts can help reduce tax liabilities, while tax-inefficient assets like high-turnover stocks are better suited for tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s Choosing tax-efficient investments can enhance after-tax returns. Investments like index funds or exchangetraded funds (ETFs) tend to have lower turnover ratios, resulting in fewer taxable events compared to actively managed funds.
Additionally, investments with qualified dividends or long-term capital gains are taxed at lower rates, making them attractive options for taxable accounts. Tax-loss harvesting involves strategically selling investments at a loss to offset capital gains and reduce taxable income. By realizing losses, investors can offset gains and potentially lower their tax bill. However, it's essential to adhere to IRS regulations regarding wash-sale rules to avoid disallowance of the deduction. Contributing to tax-advantaged retirement accounts such as Traditional IRAs or 401(k)s can provide immediate tax benefits by reducing taxable income.
Moreover, these accounts offer tax-deferred growth, allowing investments to compound without incurring annual taxes on gains. Roth IRAs, in
particular, provide tax-free withdrawals in retirement, offering valuable tax diversification. During retirement, implementing tax-efficient withdrawal strategies can help maximize after-tax income. By carefully managing withdrawals from different account types (e.g., taxable, tax-deferred, and taxfree), retirees can minimize tax liabilities. Strategies such as Roth IRA conversions and utilizing taxable accounts for early retirement income can optimize tax outcomes.
Estate planning is crucial for preserving wealth and minimizing estate taxes. Utilizing tools like trusts, charitable giving, and gifting strategies can help transfer assets tax-efficiently to heirs. Moreover, establishing a comprehensive estate plan ensures that assets are distributed according to one's wishes while minimizing tax burdens for beneficiaries. Tax laws and financial circumstances evolve over time, necessitating periodic review and adjustment of financial plans. Regularly assessing tax implications, rebalancing portfolios, and incorporating tax-saving opportunities ensures that the financial plan remains aligned with changing tax regulations and personal goals. Incorporating tax efficiency into a financial plan is essential for maximizing returns and preserving wealth.
By strategically allocating assets, selecting tax-efficient investments, utilizing retirement accounts, implementing tax-loss harvesting, and engaging in estate planning, individuals can minimize tax liabilities and enhance after-tax returns. A tax-efficient financial plan not only optimizes current tax situations but also lays the foundation for long-term financial security. Consulting with a financial advisor or tax professional can provide personalized guidance in navigating complex tax issues and crafting a robust tax-efficient financial strategy.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
SVETLANA BLASUCCIExperience sophistication in a glass with a PINK GIMLET - a refreshing concoction of premium gin, zesty lime, and a touch of sweet sugary water, perfectly balanced for a delightful drinking experience. As the season blooms with new life and endless possibilities, this cocktail aims to capture the essence of this rejuvenating time of year. Cheers to the flavors of spring!
Experience sophistication in a glass
ingredients
• 2 ounces ALL POINTS WEST DISTILLERY PINK PEPPERCORN CATHOUSE GIN
• 3/4 ounce fresh lime juice
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Lime wheel or twist for garnish directions
1. Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake well until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel or twist.
6. Serve and enjoy your classic Gimlet cocktail!
Note: If you prefer a slightly sweeter Gimlet, you can adjust the amount of simple syrup to suit your taste preferences.
Investing in indoor plants can not only spruce up your living space, but also bring numerous health and well-being benefits
The Snake Plant is for anyone from a green thumb to a black thumb because anyone can grow it. These hardy plants can adapt to any environment and can live in both high light and low light.
The Hope Peperomia likes medium to bright direct sunlight. It does well as a tabletop plant or a hanging plant. Watering is only needed one time a month regardless of plant size.
Bringing the outdoors in with the use of house plants is a great way to add color and dimension to your space. We sat down with Jesse Nelson at Family Tree Nursery, based in Kansas, and discussed the benefits of incorporating plant life into your home.“There are plenty of studies on the health benefits of plants, and the evidence suggests that being around plants and caring for plant life increases overall wellness,” explains Nelson. “Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of purifying the air.” There are a wide variety of indoor plants that work for any space and light situation that you may have. Regardless if you have a green thumb or a black thumb, there are plant varieties that fit your lifestyle. Here are a few of our favorite indoor plants to incorporate into your home.
The ZZ plant, which its formal name is Zamioculas Zamiifolia, is a very easy plant to care for. They like anything from low light to bright light. These plants are hard to kill and can go a long time without being watered.
APRIL 2024
THROUGH APRIL
Hall des Lumières
Embark on a digital journey into the universe! Explore planets, supernovae, and the vastness of space in a whole new way. Witness the canyons of Mars and the rings of Saturn. This unique exhibition will leave you starstruck.
THROUGH APRIL
Cruises depart from Chelsea
Cruise along the river and witness the first signs of green on the trees. The illuminated Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty create a magical backdrop. Perfect for a romantic night out!
APRIL 1ST - 30TH
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Park Slope
Why fly to Japan when you can experience cherry blossoms right here in Brooklyn? The garden blooms with these delicate pink flowers, celebrating the arrival of spring. Don’t miss this natural spectacle!
APRIL 5TH, 6TH, 8TH & 9TH
Olivia Rodrigo's New York Tour
Madison Square Garden
Experience Olivia Rodrigo’s raw talent and emotional lyrics live on stage. Don’t miss this rising star!
APRIL 24TH
Carnegie Hall
Experience the captivating music of the Bamberg Symphony under the baton of conductor Jakub Hrůša. A night of orchestral brilliance awaits!
APRIL 26TH
Billy Joel in Concert
Madison Square Garden
Sing along to Billy Joel’s timeless hits in the heart of Manhattan. An unforgettable night of music awaits!