Manhattan, NY May 2024

LIFE + CULTURE

ANNE GEDDES

SHARES HER MAGIC WITH MANHATTAN

Elevating expectations.

The kitchen. It’s where we strive to delight the people we love with the freshest food, exquisitely prepared and beautifully presented. In The Living Kitchen Experience, we invite you to envision a higher standard for your own home. Featuring stunning vignettes designed around Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances, this curated environment will inspire a wealth of new ideas to elevate your kitchen and bring joy to your life.

We are proud to be a Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove Living Kitchen Experience retailer.

Ladies' Issue

May – our Ladies' Issue

I don’t know about you, but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who make my life richer and more beautiful. I have a daughter who has grown and matured and has become one of my best friends. She has also given me a precocious granddaughter who makes me smile, who makes me laugh, and (sometimes) makes me happy that I can leave her with mom and can go home at night to a quiet house. But always, our wives, our mothers, our daughters/granddaughters are some of the most influential women in our lives.

And of course, with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms … but it’s not just the biological mothers, but also the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, the teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives –making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.

While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in communities. That’s one of the favorite parts of this role as Publisher – connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to Manhattan’s women. In this issue, look to people like Savitri Richardson of SLR Real estate and her team; Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, owner of Dermatology Circle, and Alma Vicencio – a local fashion designer, mother of a two-year-old and a 5-time belt-winning Muay Thai champion: they are movers and shakers, builders and makers! Their silent service blesses those who are under their care. Their attention to detail shows us something about beauty that can’t be seen or understood any other way.

And, nobody embraces motherhood and all the joys that babies bring into our lives more than our featured artist Anne Geddes – the world renowned photographer celebrated for her whimsical, iconic portraits of babies and infants, capturing their innocence, their guileless wonder and the beauty of childhood. Read about – and now participate in! – how she snatches magic out of the air when photographing them to tell THEIR stories.

So enjoy this month’s issue – we sure enjoyed preparing it for you.

As always, thanks for reading.

KEVIN HICKS, PUBLISHER

@MANHATTANNYCITYLIFESTYLE

CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/MANHATTANNY

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Kevin Hicks

Kevin.hicks@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Svetlana Blasucci

svetlana.blasucci@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Svetlana Blasucci

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Svetlana Blasucci

Geddes

Alexander

360 Health

Kuset

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Revival Services

Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD/PhD, a board-certified dermatologist specializing in cosmetic and medical treatments

Specializing in Non-Invasive Cosmetic Procedures & Facial Harmonization Fillers | Botox | PRP & Microneedling

Kevin Hicks, Publisher

Savitri Richardson

Erin Pastrana

sugarwerks

“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

“Sunshine in the garden and the hairdo from outerspace” | 48” x 60” Mixed media on canvas | Oliver Corwin and Ann Lawlor 2023

‘Metropolitan story” | 48” x 68 Mixed Media on Canvas | Oliver Corwin and Ann Lawlor 2022

Photos by Ann Lawlor

“Jean Pierre spoke words with light and Lulu’s mind lit up” | 48” x 72” Mixed Media on canvas | Oliver Corwin and Ann Lawlor 2021

Riverpark

AN OASIS IN KIPS BAY

Riverpark is a place I couldn't recommend enough.  From the decor to the staff it feels like your home away from home. We indulged in everything from deliciously decorated dishes from burrata exploding with flavors to decadent desserts that reminded us of our sleep-away camp days.  In the summer there will be seafood towers and rosé a-plenty on their patio. Indulge your senses and enjoy beautiful views of Queens and the East River.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI

DR. VIKTORYIA KAZLOUSKAYA, MD/PHD

Radiance Revival Services

ARTICLE BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL ALEXANDER

DR. K, I’D LOVE TO GET TO KNOW YOU BETTER. COULD YOU KINDLY TELL ME A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY INTO THIS BUSINESS? I’M CURIOUS TO HEAR YOUR STORY!

I am Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD/PhD, a board-certified dermatologist specializing in cosmetic and medical treatments. Originally from the former Soviet Union, Belarus, I completed my medical training and dermatology residency there. In 2011, I immigrated to the USA, where I repeated my dermatology residency at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, NYC, and pursued a fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh.

I dedicated several years to working in the Dermatology Department at the University of Pittsburgh and maintaining an affiliation with them, offering telemedicine services. Additionally, I contribute to the field by teaching residents cosmetic dermatology at Mount Sinai in New York.

My decision to open my own office stems from my commitment to delivering personalized care and spending quality time with patients to help them achieve their aesthetic and skincare goals.

IN WHAT AREA DO YOU SPECIALIZE?

At my practice, I provide a comprehensive range of medical and cosmetic treatments. The clinic is equipped with a diverse array of cutting-edge devices and lasers, enabling us to offer advanced skincare solutions. Additionally, we specialize in popular injectables such as Botox, fillers, and fat-dissolving injections like Kybella.

To complement our treatments, we also offer several lines of medical-grade cosmetics, aiming to assist our patients in achieving their skincare goals. My commitment is to provide a holistic approach to dermatological care, combining the latest technology with personalized solutions to ensure the best possible outcomes for everyone.

WHAT’S THE MOST SURPRISING SKINCARE MYTH YOU’VE ENCOUNTERED, AND HOW DO YOU DEBUNK IT?

A prevailing misconception revolves around the belief in a miracle device capable of instant rejuvenation. This myth is often fueled by companies producing lasers and devices, investing substantial resources in marketing and advertising. In reality, the aging process is intricate, and influenced by numerous factors. To effectively counteract it, a holistic approach is paramount.

Beginning with lifestyle choices such as diet, sun protection, and exercise, the journey to optimal skin health requires a tailored, individualized skincare regimen.

As a cosmetic dermatologist, my goal is not merely to sell procedures or expensive packages but to educate patients on achieving their goals effectively. By imparting knowledge and fostering a comprehensive understanding of the rejuvenation process, I strive to empower patients to make informed decisions aligned with their unique needs.

TELL US WHAT SERVICES YOU PROVIDE?

At our clinic, we take pride in offering a broad spectrum of skin care and hair loss treatments to cater to diverse needs. One of our most sought-after services is hair loss treatment. Our approach involves recommending a comprehensive hair loss consultation, incorporating digital trichoscopy to analyze the scalp. From there, we develop a personalized plan that encompasses medical interventions, regenerative treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and lasers, and targeted supplements.

Additionally, we specialize in cosmetic treatments tailored to address specific concerns, including pigmentation issues, acne scarring, rosacea, and more. Our cosmetic services extend to skin rejuvenation and preventative treatments, providing our clients with a holistic approach to skincare. At our practice, our commitment is to incorporate options that offer multiple benefits for our patients. A recent addition to our repertoire is the Sofwave treatment, utilizing a unique ultrasound-based technology. This innovative approach holds various FDA-approved applications, spanning from the improvement of wrinkles to lifting specific areas such as eyebrows and jawline. Additionally, Sofwave has demonstrated efficacy in enhancing skin texture, addressing concerns like acne scars and cellulite.

Furthermore, our clinic offers medical consultations for various skin problems, ensuring thorough and expert guidance. For those requiring minor skin surgeries and procedures, such as the removal of skin growths or cysts, our skilled team is equipped to deliver precise and effective solutions.

WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT FROM ALL THE DERMATOLOGY GROUPS HERE IN MANHATTAN?

Our clinic is dedicated to a personalized approach, ensuring that each patient receives the attention they deserve. Being a direct pay (fee per service) clinic, we prioritize allocating sufficient time for our patients, recognizing the importance of a thorough and unhurried experience. To enhance convenience, we adeptly combine both medical and cosmetic services during the same-day visit, offering a seamless and comprehensive solution to our clients.

WHAT’S THE MOST COMMON MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE IN THEIR SKINCARE ROUTINES, AND HOW CAN THEY FIX IT?

One of the most persistent routine mistakes is the belief that sunscreen is only necessary during the summer months. Despite the numerous efforts made by dermatologists through personal interactions and social media campaigns, this misconception prevails. The truth is that the daily use of sunscreen is paramount in preventing sun damage, which can lead to issues such as wrinkles, pigmentation concerns, and, more importantly, skin cancer. It is essential to emphasize the yearround significance of sunscreen as a fundamental and effective measure in maintaining skin health.

Photography by Michael Alexander. Hair, makeup, prop styling by Francesca Maria, The Fleurish House

Prodigy SAVITRI THE PROPERTY POWERHOUSE

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI SLR REAL ESTATE

Tell me about Savitri!

What a beautiful name.

Thank you, it’s of Hindu origin, from the Mahabharata. My father studied philosophy in college and after reading the tale of a princess named after the Sun deity, knew he had to give it to me. Essentially the beautiful and intelligent princess outsmarts death and saves her husband’s life. It’s a big name, and I believe I do it justice. I love having a unique name, it helps me stand out in a competitive field. I take inspiration from the story and apply it to my life and my real estate practice.

“Many salespeople are driven by doing deals, we are driven by providing service, loyalty and respect to our clients. We customize our marketing strategies for each property – there is no one-size-fits-all way to promote a listing...”

How did your mom influence your decision to pursue real estate?

My mother was a high-powered executive for Chase in the 70s and 80s, and her job involved assessing, analyzing and approving the funding of redevelopment sites all over Manhattan. She’s one of the reasons why Battery Park City through West 70th along the water has been redeveloped. As a child visiting her at work, I’d do my best to absorb what was happening, and regale her “big bosses” with my financial acumen. My mother’s sister is also an investor and developer – so between the financial aspect and acquisitions – I was born to practice real estate. My mother and I discuss some of her past deals and the insights learned from that side of the industry and how it impacts us all to this day. Imagine what NYC would look like if there were fewer residential developments along the Hudson!

Who are your team members?

As a full-service boutique brokerage, we have a full spectrum of professionals on hand. There are three sales and listing agents, including Jessica DeleonDelfin, Anat Klein and me. We have an assistant, a graphic designer, an architect, a stager/decorator, a contractor, a photographer/videographer, and a copy editor to help us create the best marketing campaign for listings and assist buyers with a curative approach.

What makes you stand out from other realtors?

Our process is what makes the difference, we are client and community-focused. That means we actually listen to our clients' wants, needs, and goals. We utilize our wealth of first-hand knowledge (we are all either natives or long-term residents with over 20+ years living in NYC) and solve our clients’ problems because we have the skill set and expertise. Many salespeople are driven by doing deals, we are driven by providing service, loyalty and respect to our clients. We customize our marketing strategies for each property – there is no one-size-fits-all way to promote a listing. We also customize our buyers’ searches – we leverage technology but don’t rely on it. We have implemented a 90-day exclusive contract versus the industry's 180-day. This allows us to help our clients achieve their real estate goals quickly.

We believe in full disclosure and educating our clients throughout the process. We have flexible options as well for their transaction needs. By keeping our clients at the center we never lose sight of their goals.

Any plans to expand in Europe?

Yes actually. We are in preliminary talks with a fellow boutique firm based in Tuscany/Umbria. We have listed properties outside of the US, in Central America, and feel that this partnership will help us provide even greater opportunities for our clients. The ability to be global in this industry is one of the best ways to ensure growth in the future. Our network is vast and we look forward to adding to our service area.

Can you share a story about a particu- larly memorable client experience that impacted your approach to real estate?

I have had so many amazing clients over the years, but my favorite hands down is the “arrangement” sale that I brokered five years ago. I was approached by a long-term resident of Prospect Heights, Brooklyn. A woman who had lived in her home for over 50 years, she wanted to sell and essentially establish a version of a life estate so that she could maintain her life in the neighborhood but no longer be in charge of maintenance and upkeep. I also had some amazing clients whose home I sold and they were looking for the best neighborhood to raise their children in. Suffice it to say, we scheduled a showing and a meeting, and the “arrangement” was born. My 50-year resident sold her home at a discount to my buyers who then in turn renovated the home to create an apartment for the original owner, and a beautiful duplex for themselves. The purchase price

savings paired with the amazing renovation resulted in a new “multi-generational” household, and an equity gain of over $1,000,000 since the 2019 transaction. A win-win-win for all parties involved.

What do you do outside of work? What inspires you?

Outside of work, I love to spend time with my twin sons – they are seniors in high school now so we are enjoying our last few months of full-time childhood. I’m a big traveler – I love to take long trips and obtain an intimate experience with the country and the culture. Stay in a local home, learn the language, eat the food, tour the country for at least four weeks at a time. I’m an avid reader – obviously industry news, but also non-fiction works regarding finances, history, arts, and culture. I was a philosophy major at the University of Virginia – so a lifelong student of the world. I’m physically active – Pilates, weightlifting, ax throwing, and golf to name a few activities. I love to watch live sports – and during basketball season you can find me at Barclays Center.

SLR REAL ESTATE

207 SAINT JAMES PL SUITE 1L

BROOKLYN, NY 11238

c: 929.500.8480

o: 929.298.1983

savitri@slr-realestate.com

www.slr-realestate.com

Savitri is pictured at her exclusive listing at 237 St. James Place - a fully renovated 1864 Italianate Townhouse that’s listed for $5,500,000.

MOO BAGS BY GLORIA MENSAH

Cow Crafted Carry

ARTICLE BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI & DEO KUSET

Founder, Gloria Mensah, is a Ghanaian-American with an appetite for digital marketing, branding and project management. She has worked as a digital marketer, producer and project manager for many luxury beauty brands in New York City. Her ultimate goal has been to represent her continent and inform the world of the endless talents and brilliance of Africa.

HOW DID YOU GET THE IDEA TO DESIGN MOO BAGS?

I love entrepreneurship and the ability to create a work of art that individuals are drawn to. Furthermore, as a Ghanaian, I always wanted to start a fashion brand that globally highlights the craftsmanship of artisans across Africa and provides long-lasting economic opportunities through job creation and fair pay.

In search of talented artisans to help me execute my vision, I met founders Devon and Lauren of Artisan Global, a non-profit in Uganda that works with artisans to develop creative industries. Through the Artisan Global, I learned about the popular, sacred Ankole cattle and envisioned creating handcrafted handbags made solely from Ugandan resources and local artisans.

WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND?

I am originally from a suburb outside Philadelphia called Yeadon. I graduated from ESSEC Business School in Paris, France where I specialized in Luxury Brand Management.

CONTINUED >

TELL ME ABOUT THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE BAGS.

I wanted to utilize material that is known in Uganda and make bags that are one-of-ones and innovative. The cow horns in Uganda and other parts of Africa are known for their unique variations in color and patterns. The colors vary from ivory black to caramel to white. The patterns are stripes and solids intermixed for a striking appearance. Each horn is one of a kind and exotically distinct from any other horn. No two cow horns are exactly alike.

YOUR BIGGEST MENTORS IN THIS INDUSTRY AND WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THEY HAVE EVER GIVEN YOU?

Honestly, I do not have any mentors. It is unfortunate to not have a close relationship with individuals within the fashion industry that I can confide in. It is hard locating individuals in the fashion world that have an entrepreneurship spirit and are open to help you navigate the market.

AS A MILLENNIAL, WHAT ROLE DO YOU THINK SOCIAL MEDIA PLAYS IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY?

Social media is everything to us. The majority of our sales come from social media and the ability to reach thousands of fashion-forward individuals who are looking for unique and edgy accessories to add to their wardrobe.

WOULD YOU CONSIDER YOURSELF SUSTAINABLE?

The MOO bag is a sustainably sourced bag. Handcrafted in Uganda, we intentionally create handbags made of discarded cow horn. The horns are sourced directly from abattoirs where they are discarded as waste and oftentimes burned in landfills. Once deemed waste materials, the horns are reimagined as a source of artistic value and conservation of the indigenous cow.

WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT FROM OTHER BAG DESIGNERS?

I believe using discarded cow horn separates us from the many bag designers. It is such a unique resource to use and mold into a handbag! Secondly, we also pride ourselves in highlighting the talented artisans who make these bags and the suppliers that provide the cow horn. We are very transparent and extremely proud of all the gifted individuals that make MOO what it is today!

HOW WOULD YOU PERSONALLY  STYLE THESE?

Honestly, this bag is so unique and versatile! You can dress it down with a sweatsuit or dress it up with a beautiful silk dress and heels. It works with every outfit and allows you the space to carry your essentials with you.

FOR SALE

JAMES PL. | CLINTON HILL, BROOKLYN

ANY UPCOMING COLLECTIONS YOU CAN TELL US ABOUT?

RENOVATED 3,300+ SQ FT HOME

23’ WIDE

We are working on a tote bag that incorporates cow horn chains and a woven interior made of raffia. I am super excited because we get to work with more artisans within the weaving space. We are hoping to launch the new designs in May 2024!

A GOOD HANDBAG SHOULD BE A CONVERSATION STARTER, DO YOU AGREE?

Oh definitely! A unique and well-crafted handbag should get people talking. That is why I love our design! No one knows what material it is and they immediately stare intensely at the bag. Eventually, they inquire, and an insightful conversation ensues.

https://www.moo-brand.com/ info@moo-brand.com

FROM Styling TO THE MAT

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI

Talk about superhero mom. From styling as a profession to hitting the mat and 5-time winning champ in Muay Thai, Alma is a burst of energy and someone who can take you down but at least you'll look good!

WHO IS ALMA AND WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND?

I am a first-generation Filipino American who was raised alongside my two sisters by my mother and grandmother. Growing up, my mother made numerous sacrifices to ensure that we had access to incredible opportunities. To assist my mother in raising us, my grandmother immigrated from the Philippines. Coming from a household that was filled with strong women, my upbringing has significantly shaped my identity and values.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO FASHION STYLING?

I developed a deep passion for fashion at a very young age. By the time I was 6 years old, I was already illustrating my own outfits and collaborating with my grandmother to bring them to life by selecting fabrics and sewing them together. This early exposure to the world of fashion fueled my desire to pursue a career in design, leading me to attend fashion school. However, it

was during my time as a personal shopper that I discovered my true love for styling. I yearned to break free from the limitations of styling specific brands and decided to establish my own business, where I could focus on understanding and meeting the unique styling needs of my clients based on their lifestyles.

While I am technically referred to as a "stylist," I prefer to think of myself as a "wardrobe therapist." My ultimate goal is to ensure that all my clients feel equipped and confident in the various roles they play in their lives, by helping them look and feel their best.

DREAM CLIENT TO STYLE?

My dream clients are individuals who are open-minded, honest, and ready for a life-changing transformation. These clients are willing to be vulnerable and trust in my expertise to help them become the best version of themselves. Collaboration is key, and I appreciate clients who are eager to learn and embrace new ideas.

My dream client fully embraces the experience and leans into the process. And when they do, it is incredibly rewarding to see them shine with newfound radiance, confidence, and self-esteem.

I WAS TOLD YOU USED TO DO MUAY THAI, TELL ME MORE ABOUT THAT.

Muay Thai has been a significant part of my life and continues to play a vital role in my overall well-being. As an active fighter, I have accumulated over 20 fights, 5 belts, and even won gold internationally. In 2019, I proudly represented the US team, showcasing my skills and dedication to the sport.

Even though my competitive days may have evolved, Muay Thai remains an integral part of my routine. It’s a non-negotiable and I still commit to practicing 4x a week and have the privilege of being a female coach at Five Points Academy in SoHo. Muay Thai serves as both my therapy and lifestyle, providing me with a physical and mental outlet that keeps me healthy, balanced and sane.

“In the evenings, when the house is calm and everyone is asleep, I cherish the stillness. It's during this time that I can fully focus on managing my projects and working towards my goals.”

HOW DO YOU JUGGLE YOUR WORK AND BEING A FULL-TIME MOM?

The early stages of motherhood were undoubtedly challenging, especially during my daughter's infancy. I often felt exhausted and overwhelmed, constantly running on minimal energy. However, as a woman raised with my upbringing, I learned to adapt, be resilient, and make things happen no matter what.

Growing up, I was conditioned to believe that I would need to work for a major company or pursue a career in nursing. However, I want to show my daughter that she can be anything she wants, even if it isn't considered the norm. I believe in breaking stereotypes and demonstrating that there are no limitations to what she can achieve.

Now that my daughter is 2 years old and attends daycare twice a week, I have the wonderful opportunity to carefully plan and attend my appointments on those specific days. I am truly grateful to have an amazing partner who is not only an exceptional father but also a small business owner himself. Although it can get tricky at times, we make a great team, supporting and helping each other in balancing our responsibilities.

In the evenings, when the house is calm and everyone is asleep, I cherish the stillness. It's during this time that I can fully focus on managing my projects and working towards my goals. Running Alma Styles grants me the flexibility to prioritize my time with my daughter, and I consider it a great privilege.

My daughter is my ultimate source of inspiration, and my drive to succeed extends beyond financial accomplishments. I want to set a positive example for her in all aspects of life. She is the driving force behind everything I do, and I am committed to continually striving to be the best version of myself for her sake.

DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE IN 5 WORDS.

1970’s Retro meets The Jetsons

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT STAPLE THAT YOU THINK WORKS WITH ANY OUTFIT?

Silver shoes! They are bold yet go with everything and effortlessly level up any outfit.

WHAT STYLE ICONS INSPIRE YOU?

Iris Ampel. She will always be remembered for her bold and larger-than-life frames. Her unique style philosophy resonates with me, embracing the idea that as we age, our fashion choices can become more daring and expressive.

ONE PIECE YOU'RE BUYING FOR SPRING?

Something Kelly Green, not sure yet but it’s my absolute favorite color to wear for spring!

Contact Alma at: alma@almastyles.com https://www.almastyles.com/ almasaurus_styles

KITCHEN AND BATH COLLECTION

HEALTHY LIVING

Empower through 360 Degree Health

ARTICLE BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SVETLANA B/ APOLLO 360 HEALTH

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN YOUR CAREER? DO YOU HAVE A MEDICAL BACKGROUND?

My career in healthcare began when I started working in clinical research in the emergency dept. I loved working in the Emergency Room - it was exciting! I recall noticing that many of the patients arriving at the Emergency Department were experiencing the consequences of poorly managed lifestyle-related illnesses, though. That led me to wonder whether there might be other ways to help patients “further upstream,” in other words, before these lifestyle diseases led them to the hospital. That’s why I became a personal trainer and a registered nurse. I’m passionate about empowering others to take their health into their own hands.

WHY DO YOU LIKE WORKING FOR 360 HEALTH?

Working for Apollo, my fitness and nursing background enables me to assist a diverse range of patients with unique health needs.

I find each day rewarding as I contribute to cardiovascular prevention by implementing fitness and lifestyle interventions tailored to each individual. At Apollo, collaboration among cardiologists, registered dietitians, fitness professionals, and health psychologists allows for comprehensive support tailored to each patient, breaking down silos commonly found in healthcare specialties. Our integrated approach places the patient at the center, allowing them to focus on their health and well-being.

DID YOU DO ANY SPECIAL TRAINING?

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE TYPE OF WORKOUT?

Before becoming an RN, I attended the American Academy of Personal Training in NYC to gain hands-on

skills and combat gym intimidation. As a personal trainer, I aim to show patients that fitness is for everyone. I love helping people connect with their strengths and feel good. Personally, I enjoy running, particularly 5ks, as it brings me joy and peace.

HOW DO YOU STAY MINDFUL AND KEEP MOTIVATED?

To stay motivated, I set clear goals aligned with my passion and practice mindfulness techniques like meditation. I seek inspiration from books, podcasts, and supportive communities, and share my goals with trusted individuals for accountability. Celebrating progress, self-care, and embracing change are crucial for sustaining motivation. My approach emphasizes balance, resilience, and personal growth.

WHAT FITNESS DO YOU OFFER FOR NEWCOMERS?

Each Apollo member’s fitness program is meticulously designed and personalized to the individual. We dive deep into understanding individuals, exploring their interests, examining test results, and utilizing wearable data collected through our app. Collaborating closely with the care team, including cardiologists, dietitians, and health psychologists, we develop personalized fitness plans that are not only tailored but also achievable, measurable, and sustainable. Typically, I prefer to begin with bodyweight exercises such as squats and lunges for our members, then gradually advance to compound movements involving dumbbells and resistance bands.

873 Broadway, New York, NY 10003

(212) 213-2900 apollo360health.com

POSE WHISPERER Extraordinaire

95% OF THE WORK IS DONE BEFORE THE SHOOT

ARTICLE BY SVETLANA BLASUCCI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNE GEDDES

Meeting Anne Geddes at first didn't feel “new” to me because I had done all my reading about her and felt that I already knew her. You'd expect, as a photographer myself, that I would feel some nervousness about meeting her, but it turns out that she's a real person, just like all of us - human with lots to say. Her demeanor is strong but calm.  She comes from a world of inspiration and started at a young age shooting people with a Pentax K1000 in hand. Anne's journey all started when a newspaper covered what she was working on - a girl in a tutu - and the phone never stopped ringing!

Anne started with portrait photography for her first 10 years and decided to not just focus on newborns, but also focus on one, two and three-year-olds. Those ages are much different than shooting older children: it's sometimes difficult for the older children to connect with strangers, whereas it's very easy for babies. This is where she put in her "10,000 hours" of learning - working in portrait photography taught her how to relate to children. She found that it was sometimes very stressful to work with hard-to-handle children - but you often get your best results that way. In between her portrait work, to refocus her own energies, once a month Anne made it a point to do one image "just for her". That's where she came up with her first "Anne Geddes" style photo: where she lived they used a sling and a scale to weigh babies ... this gave her the freedom to create her own images. Her advice now for any artist is to spend one day a month creating for yourself- it's that important.  Her daughters are both photographers (two daughters, one here in New York and one in Australia). We asked if she had influenced them in any way to go into photography, but she said that she was more surprised than anyone! But when they were both young, the family lived above her photo studio in Auckland, and were more than likely absorbing what their mother was doing. When her eldest, Kelly, was around 3 or 4 they went

“It’s not about the camera, it’s about the subject - got to be fast to see that moment.”

outside one afternoon during a huge thunderstorm and after seeing the lightning light up the sky, her daughter looked up at her and said, "God must be taking photos!" The environment was apparently very inspirational!

Early on Anne noticed that a lot of the current photography was taken of people’s homes or families sitting in their backyards and she didn't really like it or find it particularly interesting. When they moved to Melburn, she saw an image taken in black and white of a 5-yearold child - simple, plain, timeless. She decided that's what SHE wanted to do. She called the photographer (Leanne Time) and offered to be an unpaid stylist for her – which turned out to be the catalyst for her amazing career. That's when she found out what she wanted to do - she wanted to do not just pictures, but portraitures that "snatched the magic out of the air"! When you're working with children, you never know what you're going to end up with - and that's wonderful: that's the magic!

Now living in New York with husband Kel, Anne has been traveling the world doing private portrait commissions, which are also available to prospective clients here in Manhattan. She has clients with children she has photographed every year from when they were newborns, work which brings both her and the families involved great joy.

This is a unique opportunity to have your own baby be captured in an ‘Anne Geddes’ exclusive image, just for them. As we met, she and her team had recently returned from a private portrait shoot in Dubai and I was surprised to hear how much planning and preparation goes into every shoot.

Anne explained that the Dubai shoot for instance involved many weeks of creative planning and preparation before she and her team arrived there. ‘It’s crucial that everything is in place before the baby is even at the studio’. Once a baby is there, everything needs to revolve around them. Of course, these private commissions also include family images.

Over the years, Anne has constantly been asked about her process … what it’s like in the studio when she’s photographing for instance. This Spring, she is introducing a series of unique workshops here in Manhattan and inviting both photographers and those who are simply fans of her work, to be part of an intimate group of 15 people spending the day with her while she creates new work. There will be babies on set and also an opportunity for those attending to be a part of the day, asking questions, enjoying lunch together and hearing stories from Anne about many of the images she’s created over her 35year career –and there are lots of stories!

Dates for these workshops will soon be announced, and in the meantime please contact Anne at info@annegeddes.com for more details, and if you wish to attend. Remember, these workshops are not just for photographers, but also longtime fans of her work who would love to see her creative process while she makes entirely new images. It’s your chance to share in the magic, and would make a lovely surprise gift for someone.

For exclusive private portrait enquiries, please contact Anne’s agent Ann Lawlor – ann@ blondeandco.com, (917) 304-4773