Raine 10 - The International Issue

MAGAZINE

RAINE Entrepreneurs. Fashion. Technology

QUARTERLY

INTERNATIONAL ISSUE VOLUME 10

Poken. The Future of Social Networking

A New Jason Bourne Thriller Meet Project Runway’s Viktor Luna

I n s p i r e .

E m p o w e r .

D e l i v e r

t h e

M u s t

K n o w

E n t r e p r e n e u r .

Prevention, Maintenance and Rejuvenation.

It’s all about healthy skin.

EDITOR’S NOTE WELCOME TO RAINE MAGAZINE Raine Magazine is a movement for finding the best talents in the industry and showcasing them to those that have a passion for creativity and innovation. Raine will continue to inspire, empower and deliver the “must know” entrepreneur.

In this issue, one will come to know Raine and its thirst for bringing you beautiful people, places and things from around the world – may it be of rising faces in fashion, film and television, where to eat, stay or chill, the latest must read novel, or of exotic getaways. Our stories, we hope inspire and empower you to continue on your journey of discovering and fulfilling your dreams. Our mission is to always deliver you the next biggest stars in the creative industries.

PS. Due to my love for tech toys…each issue we will surprise you with the latest “must have” gadget.

Enjoy!

Don’t forget to subscribe. It’s easy!! Choose which way works for you!

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(Download the Microsoft TAG app and scan with your phone).

Truly,

Nova Lorraine Designer and Founder

MAGAZINE

RAINE Entrepreneurs. Fashion. Technology INTERNATIONAL ISSUE

where to stay.eat.chill

thailand54

62

british columbia

BARBADOS 58

>

fashion

Opé 4 >

10

BEHIND THE SEAMS

18MODERN MAN designers

> 24

AUTOBIOGRAPHIE

VIKTOR LUNA

22

RISING 26 Couturier

beauty

68 luxe beauty

PATRICIA REINDERS 70

72

loren ridinger

>

76 DR SPICER business

78

FASHION LEGACY: H&M

> 84

RAINE 82 AWARD

RAINEMAKER

entertainment

FACE 28 >34FRESH CARMEN CORCOZ FILM&TELEVISION36

EVENTS 38 42ONDANGO 44 POKEN culture LUQMAN 47

sand sculpture

> 50

DANCE 53

MAGAZINE

RAINE Entrepreneurs. Fashion. Technology

VOL 10

EDI TORIA L TEA M Nova Lorraine - Founder / Creative Director Marilyn Wilson - Senior Editor Geff Yabes - Features Editor Nekisha Slade - Research Editor Tina Littlejohn - Research Editor Tamalyn Stewart - Business Development

C ONTRI B UTIN G W RIT E R S Carlotta Harrington Milena Jakovljevic Tamara Walker Kia Rodriguez Destah Owens Nadirah Jilaan

Felicia Crawford Monique Forrest Vered Koshlano Natasha Gabriel Krystal Bailey Sherrie Spears

G RA P H I C D E S I G N Martina Micko Javier Hernandez

C O V E R C R E D IT S Photo by Luqman Ken Barboza Agency www.kenbarboza.com

S P E C IA L T H ANK S Frederique Porter

RAINE MAGAZINE NEW YORK * LA * SAN FRANCISCO * MIAMI CORRESPONDENCE Raine Magazine PO Box 410880 Melbourne, FL 32940 Raine Magazine is a trademark of Raine Creative Holdings LLC and is published quarterly. All contents, logos, and articles are copyrighted materials and all right are reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of Raine Creative Holdings is prohibited. The publisher also reserves the right to refuse any advertising material for any reason deemed inappropriate by publisher. Raine Magazine’s subscription is $50.00. Please make checks payable to Raine Creative Holdings. To distribute Raine at your business, please email editor@rainemagazine.com.

FASH ION E NTREPRENEURS | ST YLIS T

Opé STYLE INSPIRED BY TWO GREATS: GRACE CODDINGTON AND ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Written by Destah Owens

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photo by: J ulia P ogodina Raine Magazine - Volume 10

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Had it not been for her family’s decision to move to Nigeria when she was 11 years old, the life and style (and perhaps even the lifestyle) of the St. Louis, Missouri born Opé might have been remarkably different than what it is now. She could have been your suburban, neighborhood pharmacist, doodling clever pictures of smartly dressed stick figures on the back of a coffee shop napkin to pass the time; the fashion industry version of Nicholas Cage’s Jack Campbell character in the 2000 movie: Family Man, suddenly firmly rooted near First and Main streets instead of avenues Fifth and Madison.

“The move to Nigeria really opened my eyes to lots of vibrant colors.

The everyday outfits were very ‘spiffy’ and even flamboyant,” recalls Opé. “I immediately was able to see fashion in a much more colorful way.” She would live for a time in London with family before returning Stateside, but this locale would provide even further inspiration for a young woman with aspirations of making a living in the fashion industry. “I was always drawing clothes as a kid,” she explained, often passing time putting different items from her own wardrobe together in varying combinations as she developed her own style. She marveled at how fashion in London seemed “uninhibited” as folks would seemingly put “anything together” in creating their own unique day-to-day styles.

While some might say this was just a lucky accident, Malcolm Gladwell would call this clear evidence of “The Power of Context” from his best-selling book Tipping Point. That Opé was exposed to the colors of Nigeria and the brazenness of Brit style during her formative years, undoubtedly had a great deal to do with the profession that she finds herself in today. “My father wanted me to be a doctor,” she explains in a reflective yet unenthusiastic tone. In fact, she was even studying in a pharmacy school program before leaving to work for fashion designer Betsey Johnson. “The more I ran to this dream, the more it revealed itself to me,” she says.

Opé has a love for art and enjoys the artistry that today’s designers are conveying through their works. Fittingly, she cites two of the UK’s foremost fashion mavens, Grace Coddington and the late Alexander McQueen as her inspirations within the trade. “I think McQueen was a genius…his attention to detail…creating fashion that is awe inspiring.” She recounted a story of when she went to see his exhibit at the MET and remembers being simultaneously moved to tears and dumbfounded that someone so gifted could take their own life. “I appreciate genius…whether it’s that of an artist, or dancer, or athlete. I’m impressed when someone is able to perform at the height of his or her craft. Grace inspires me with her artistry in fashion styling and how she puts stories together,”Opé explains excitedly. “I’m really attracted to her balance of fashion and art.” Looking closely, you can see how these two have influenced Opé’s own development of a style that Opé herself describes as “a little flamboyance, with color…yet understated and very feminine”.

As a stylist, Opé gets to draw from the designs of lots of different designers in putting together her own vision to tell her own story. She hopes to someday move into designing herself, but for now is content with her work as a stylist and the pace of her career. “I like to look at all of the emerging designers like Plutocracy, Laruicci, the Vessel by Lola and also the more artistic ones like Lie Sang Bong, À La Disposition, Manish Arora, Jean-Charles de Castelbajac, Viktor and Rolf and many more.” Research is a large part of her work, as she must constantly stay abreast of the trends, not only in colors, but also trends in shapes, silhouettes, and even the street trends. She points out that there are many emerging African designers out there now, such as Déola Sagoe, Lola Faturoti, Mimi Plange and Jewel

by Lisa, that are really bringing cultural style to the forefront. “ We, as African people, have a definitive fashion voice.” Additionally, she works with a number of up and coming designers, consulting on their line’s direction and helping them to identify new trends. “I like seeing the lines in their early stages; seeing the raw imagination of the designer. I help them to answer the questions like, “ What do people put together because they can’t find what they are looking for in stores?’”

Opé also looks at today’s available designs with a discerning eye and tries to imagine how she would do things differently to set her own designs apart when she gets to that stage of her career. She is currently represented by the Ken Barboza Agency based in New York City, says she wants to master styling before moving on to becoming a designer and has learned to be patient in her pursuits.

“Betsey Johnson once told me that it takes 10 years to be an overnight success and I thought, ‘not for me…it won’t take that long’…and yet here I am 10 years later.”

Make no mistake about it, Opé is definitely not in a hurry though. She is fully aware of the need to pay her dues and to continue honing her skillset until it is time for her to join the ranks of the designers.

Opé will realize her dream someday very soon, whether it is by some lucky accident, Gladwellian tenet, or just by being prepared. “I choose to try to figure things out organically for myself and just keep going until more opportunities manifest themselves. I’ll keep testing out new things, keep networking, and keep on being nice to people, because you never know who or what will help you someday.”

P hoto by : M ark G ong Raine Magazine - Volume 10

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Photo by : N icholas Routzen 10

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photo by : J ulia Pogodina

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FASH ION TO L I V E FOR

Photographer - Michael Morrison Stylist - Francis Urrutia Models - Johanna Rae, Olivia Pawlowska (Q) Makeup - Lyse Jarvis Thread Hair - Michael Morrison Hair - Yas Vivo 12

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Behindthe Seams JUST CAVALLI blouse.

PENDEEN Â Dress.

PRADA tights.

BOUTIQUE 9 shoes.

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MOSCHINO blouse.

JEAN PAUL GAULTIER sheer top.

CHANEL scarf ANNA DE. Suede trousers.

SWEETNSALTY shoes.

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VERSACE blouse.

MISSONI knit.

ETRO scarf (worn as bow tie).

MATTHEW WILLIAMSON trousers. SWEETNSALTY shoes.

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JOANNA: GIVENCHY blouse. vintage necklace.

EYE DOLL dress.

YVES SAINT LAURENT shoes.

OLIVIA: SAVE THE QUEEN blouse.

JEAN PAUL GAULTIER dress.

NOIR necklace.

YVES SAINT LAURENT shoes.

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OLIVIA: JEAN PAUL GAULTIER sheer sweater.

MOSCHINO vest.

RALPH LAUREN scarf romper designed by stylist FRANCIS URRUTIA. PRADA leather pants.

SWEETNSALTY head bands (worn on shoes).

JOANNA: LUCKY BRAND sweater.

MOSCHINO tank.

Skirt designed by stylist FRANCIS URRUTIA. ROSA CHA pants.

BOUTIQUE 9 shoes.

SWEETNSALTY head bands (worn on shoes).

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JOANNA: FENDI scarf (worn as a bow in hair).

EMILIO PUCCI blouse. vintage necklace.

MAURIZIO PECORARO Beaded tank.

ROSA CHA pants.

SWEETNSALTY shoes.

OLIVIA: OSCAR DE LA RENTA scarf (worn as a bow in hair).

MISSONI blouse. stylist own necklace.

CYNTHIA STEFFE dress.

DOLCE & GABBANA silk trouser.

SWEETNSALTY shoes.

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FASH ION TO L I V E FOR

LOOKS FOR THE MODERN MAN 20

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Photos by Eniko Szucs @ www.enikoszucs.com StYlist: Jamar Graphan Model: Roman II Shirt: Brooks Brothers Skirt: Vintage Woolworth Boots: Corcoran Hat: Stussy Belt &Gloves: Stylist’s Own

Shirt: Calvin Klein Vest: Bill Tornade Hat: Stussy Skirt: Gap Pants: Helmut Lang BOots: Kenneth Cole Raine Magazine - Volume 10

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Ves:t: Emporio Armani Top: Jean Louis Jacket (Around Waist): Armani Exchage Bottom: Alexandre Herchovitch Shoes: Anarchic

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Stylist: Jamar Graham Mua: LaTonya Green Stylist Assistant: Rachel Kibbe Models: Alex and Andrew Harris (represented by I.M.C Model Management) Top: J Crew Bottom: Vintage Army Pants (customized into shorts) Shoes: Sperry Accessories : Stylists Own Alexander wears layered vest stylist’s own, trousers Helmut Lang and boots Blondo. Andrew wears top Issey Miyake, trousers Topman, shoes Sperry and accessories stylist’s own.

FA SH ION E NTREPRENEURS | DESIGN ER S

AUTOBIOGRAPHIE Melting Two Artistic Visions

by Marilyn R. Wilson Photos by Morteza khaki 24

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Autobiographie of Paris is the melding of two minds, two artistic visions

and two influences – the designers’ Persian heritage combined with contemporary elements. The result is a unique line created out of luxury French and Italian fabrics with a subtle multicultural flair. Nazafarin Sadat Akhavi and Dena Motevalian were both born in Tehran and went on to study fashion design at Esmod International in Paris, but along the way their journeys took separate paths.

As a child, Nazafarin loved painting classes and could often be found,

“..Making clothes with leftover fabrics for my Barbies”. The family moved when she was in her teens to Canada, but she returned to Paris and reconnected with her childhood friend at Esmod. Upon graduation she gained industry experience in the D & G Showroom at Ittierre Co. in Paris, at Betsey Johnson in New York and finally at Hay & Company in Vancouver where she was a handbag designer. While in New York she also studied marketing and branding at FIT. When young, Dena painted girls and fashion illustrations all over her schoolbooks and homework.

She remembers, “I loved sketching details of accessories, bags and clothes even at the age of 6.” After finishing studies at Esmod she went on to work with Kenzo’s assistant, Tsutomo Saski, supervising production and manufacturing as well as managing all aspects of the design process.

In 2010, Nazafarin’s thoughts turned to her childhood friend. Nazafarin

remembers, “I always believed that two creative minds put together are better than one. At Esmod I appreciated Dena’s creative sense, her commitment on projects and her leadership.” Dena shares, “I had great memories of working with Nazafarin – how serious and creative she was. I collaborated with others after graduation, but none like her.” They reunited in Paris and decided the time was right. It took a lot of organization and brainstorming to come up with a business plan and the designs for that first collection – initially only five pieces.

There were fabrics to source, detailing to consider and hours of sketching. The palette chosen was a range of pastels and the designers worked intimately with the manufacturer to ensure all garments were impeccably tailored. The final line eventually expanded to include 12 looks. It was introduced slowly into the Parisian market and made a triumphant showing last spring at Vancouver Fashion Week.

Inspiration begins first and foremost with their Persian heritage, but

many other influences come to bear. Architecture, Japanese Origami, art, travel, personal experiences, movies, cities and other cultures all have an effect. They do trend research and bring ideas that each have sketched separately to the table.

Then both have to sift through it all to come up with the final vision, sometimes mixing and matching elements. Nazafarin proudly talks about their vision. “We offer the fashion world quality, impeccable tailoring and unique styles with a touch of Persian art and culture. Each piece is a journey through time. It brings alive the inspiration of delicate Persian artistry to a modern wearable collection that suits the lifestyle of today’s modern woman.”

When asked how they would describe Autobiographe to the world,

both designers’ thoughts converged into one strong vision. “It is a collection of impressive and moving colors. There are contrasts: pastel colors from light to dark, influences from the wide lands of the East to the skyscrapers of the West and architecture from the geometrical shapes of Origami to opera halls.” All these elements are smoothly integrated into garments sure to catch the attention of women everywhere.

For more information on Autobiographie, go to http://www.

autobiographie-paris.com.

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D E SI G N E R S

V I K T O R

L U N A :

a project r un w a y fa v o rit e

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Meet Viktor Luna, one of this season’s last remaining contestants on Project Runway.

Viktor is a charismatic, passionate designer with a love for sharing his art with the world. Raine Magazine catches up with Viktor shortly after the results of this season’s Project Runway are revealed - to learn more about this amazing new star on the rise and his experience behind the scenes of one of TV’s hottest shows.

Born in Mexico and raised with his siblings in Los Angeles since the age of 7, Viktor was both influenced by his mom, a sample maker and dad, a construction worker. Although a taste fashion always ran through Viktor’s veins; to please his father, Viktor chose a more traditional path of creativity to study: photography. After being unhappy with the caliber of the Californian program he was in, Viktor decided to attend the International Center of Photography in New York City.

It was in New York that Viktor was gifted his first sewing machine and thus uncovered his talent and love for fashion. “When I am sewing – I’m in a meditative state,” shares Viktor.

With, this realization in hand, Viktor enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Technology, more widely known as F.I.T. and dreamed of the day that he could show everyone what he could do.

The next stop: Project Runway. Viktor, a very shy individual, never thought that his move to New York would lead to a spot on the very popular TV Series: Project Runway. “After seeing the casting on Facebook, I decided to grab by garment bag and go to the audition -- the rest is history.”

Viktor shares some details of that very nerve racking time of his audition. “I went to the Hilton Hotel and waited 3 hours to be seen. When I was finally called, I was asked to put my clothes on a rack to be reviewed. There were 4 judges, including 2 prior Project Runway winners.

I was very nervous – so nervous that I was sweating. There were also a lot of producers sitting in the room watching me. I gave my portfolio to the judges and they begin asking me questions questions that helped them discover who I was as a person and a designer.”

A very anticipated moment came 2 days later. Viktor was called back in. “I’m sure there were 100’s of people there for the 2nd round of auditions.” This time around Viktor was much calmer. He describes this experience as very pleasant and showed the judges more of his personality. “I was just trying to let them know who I really am – “I’m super funny in my private life. I’m always thinking and I’m very energetic. I’m always on the run and I want to go everywhere and do everything.” A week and ½ after the 2nd round Viktor found out that he made it. “I was at dinner and I screamed at my table while having dinner. I was very excited – very frantic.”

Viktor gained a lot of life experience from his time on the T.V. set. “The drama is real.

Whenever there are strong personalities working together, they will clash – it’s inevitable. However the drama helped us all grow – you have to interact with people that disagree with you and that forces you to let go of your ego and look at things differently and learn how to collaborate.”

Viktor made it to the final three. “When I received the news that I didn’t win, I was a little bummed out. After reflecting – I realized that I got everything I wanted from the show money comes and goes but showing what you can do to people is priceless.”

What happens now? Viktor is working on his new collection and taking advice from the show. He’s using a lot of print and leather, luxurious and rich fabrics while focusing on made to order jackets. “I’m not going to let this momentum go. I just want to become the designer that I envision – recognized and respected – I’m not just a celebrity and TV reality star – I’m more than that.” After making his mark on Project Runway, Viktor looks forward to following some of the great artisans that came before him and leaving his name on the pages of fashion history.

DESIGNER: VIKTOR LUNA STYLIST : JUAN VARGAS; WWW.JUANVARGASNY.COM MAKEUP: RAEDAWN JOHNSON; RAEDAWNJ.COM HAIR : STEPHANIE ALEXUS; STEPHANIEALEXUS.CARBONMADE.COM MODEL: NICOLE DOYLE FROM MAJOR MODEL MANAGEMENT ASSISTANT.VINH LUONG Photo by: Kristy Leibowitz Raine Magazine - Volume 10

Dress: Viktor Luna Shoes: topshop Cuffs -Rachel roy Ring -pink elephant jewelry

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D E SI G N E R S

couturier in our midst

a rising

By Nadirah Jilaan Photos courtesy Luly YanG

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The Butterfly dress by Luly Yang

and designers. She earned her degree

fashion designer and debuts two collections

is truly one of a kind. It’s a magnificent

in graphic design, and her first job was at

on the runway each year: a bridal line and

creation with its vibrant orange, gold,

an architectural firm. In 1999, Luly entered

a couture eveningwear collection. Her

black, and white palate adorned with

and won a fashion show contest where

fashion shows are much more than models

Swarovski crystals and black ostrich

she created her first and original Monarch

showcasing gowns down a runway- they

feathers. This iconic Monarch butterfly

butterfly dress out of paper. This led to a

are masterful productions where Yang

dress was the finale piece from Luly Yang’s

change of career and in 2000 she opened

transforms a venue into a magical place

“Metamorphosis” collection, and most

her own studio boutique creating one of a

and tells her guests an enchanting story

importantly, holds lasting fascination from

kind couture wedding and evening gowns.

through her creations. She is sometimes

people around the world.

Yang was also a fitness instructor, which

compared to fashion designer Vera Wang,

Born in Taiwan, Luly Yang came

helped her develop a deep understanding

but Luly definitely has her own unique

to the U.S. when she was eight years old.

of the human form. She said “I love to sculpt

style. Her designs are alive, beautiful,

As a young girl, she loved sketching and

clothing around the organic shapes of the

and modern; while exploring all levels of

designing clothes. Yang grew up around

body and see it come alive in movement.”

feminity. She is truly an artist for those who

a family of artists, engineers, architects

appreciate couture fashion.

Luly Yang is Seattle’s premier

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FASH ION E NTREPRENEURS | MODEL

M A RI LY N MONROE?

T

H

E

N

E

X

T

Photos by Liz Rosa http://www.lizrosaphoto.ca/ Model: Emily @ Lexington Models http://www.lexington-models.com/ Make up: Allison Giroday Hair: Melissa Leach ‘using TRESemme Haircare’

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Emily P u s h i n g

t h e

B o u n d a r i e s

by Marilyn R. Wilson

Emily grew up in a small town in British Columbia - made up of an “interesting blend of hippies and loggers,” but as soon as she hit the big city, a photographer noticed her potential. He brought shots of her into a local agency that quickly snapped her up. Over the last few years she has traveled the globe working for some of the world’s biggest fashion magazines - Vogue, Elle, and Cosmopolitan – and shares, “It’s a very surreal experience to see yourself in the magazines you grew up reading!”

Now signed with Lexington Models, Emily looks to other artists for inspiration. “I’m inspired by artists who push the boundaries of what is considered beautiful. When you push the boundaries you alter the way people see things, and thus you change the world. Something can be torn, and beautiful; discordant, and beautiful; tragic and beautiful.” In terms of fashion, her favorite designers include Roberto Cavalli - “I love the prints, the extravagance and the sexiness of his pieces – the way they accentuate a woman’s body as well as Emilio Pucci – His colors just draw me in.”

The film and television industry have taken notice. Already established in the fashion world, Emily now looks forward to building a strong career on the screen. For bookings or to see more of her portfolio go to http://www.lexingtonmodels.com

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F R E SH FAC E M O DEL S

MODEL: RAZIA KHAN

R A ZI A KHA N

Photographer: Michael Donovan Height: 5'11"

Hobbies: Volleyball and Baking

Unique FAQ's: "I am Left handed and was born in Mumbai, India"

Agency: Fusion Model Management: www.fusionmodelsnyc.com Raine Magazine - Volume 10

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Carmen Corcoz: A Voice and Heart of Gold

by Leslie Ashford Motley 36

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Photo by Michael David Hansen

ENTE RTAIN M E NT ENTR EPRENEURS | MUS I CIA N

Photo by Michael David Hansen

Photo by Michael David Hansen

C

armen Corcoz is a vocal artist with a big heart that delivers a zest for life through song. At the age of five, Carmen won a popular talent contest in the small town of her birth, Sibiu, Romania. That was a magical moment and the start of a love affair with singing and acting. Though she now considers herself Canadian, Carmen states, “I will never forget my roots and where I came from.” The Corcoz family moved to Toronto, Canada in the early 1990s, allowing Carmen to pursue a music and acting career. People often said she had a great voice and so her family encouraged her to sing in vocal competitions and to continue to perform on stage in one way or another. Even after being crowned Miss Diaspora Canada of 2005, there was uncertainty of whether or not being a performer was the right path. Last year, the doubts were overcome as she decided to jump full force into singing, songwriting, and acting full time.

For the singer, songwriter, and actress, what used to be a hobby has blossomed into a place where her true life’s passion resides. Carmen writes all of her songs and says the ability to inspire people with her music is what she likes most about being a vocal artist. In her new album Inspired, she states, “ I hope my music helps people follow their dreams and discover who they are within their own talents.” In fact, music resurrected Carmen from what she describes as a very dark place in her life - when she struggled with finding herself.

Due to an experience she had as a young girl, Carmen made a decision to have her music make a huge charitable impact as well. Her charity of choice is SickKids Foundation, a Canadian-

based organization whose major function is helping children with serious illnesses get the medical treatment that their families can’t afford. As a child, a car accident placed Carmen in need of help from SickKids Foundation. She gives back by promoting the foundation, as well as donating proceeds from her album to the organization. “Knowing that I’m doing something with my talent inspires and fuels my desire to perform”, states Carmen.

Carmen has an energetic, bubbly personality with a humble and generous spirit and is often compared to the lain beauty, Shakira. In addition to being an ambassador for kids in need, she offers the following advice to aspiring vocal artists: “Showing sincere appreciation to fans is essential. Fans are an important factor in the music industry, so the ones who come and support you even at the smallest shows are there because they believe in your music and you as an artist. If you’re surrounded by people who believe in you, embrace them and be very thankful.”

She also believes that perseverance is the key in a global environment and is one of the biggest challenges for artists.

Carmen says, “I’ve realized that the music industry is a very tough business. I’ve overcome the big obstacle of not being afraid of going for what I want and pursuing it with my everything.”

Carmen has plans for a US tour in the spring, in which the first stop will be Miami, Florida. To hear Carmen’s melodious, soulful, and introspective songs, check her out on iTunes, Amazon, Napster, Shazam, or request her on your favorite station. Carmen’s newest album is sure to give everything she hopes for and more.

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E NTE RTAIN M E NT | FILM & T ELEVISI ON

RISING STARS IN FILM and TELEVISION

By Michelle Winters

HELLO

my name is:

Laura Mennell

of Syfy’s Original Series: “Alphas”.

Get to know her…

Fun facts: - Partial Credits: Smallville (TV), Watchmen (Film) - Raised in Vancouver: “I love being Canadian” - Favorite Canadian Designers: Alice in Wonderland and Dream - “I got my first agent in high school” - Great teacher and mentor: Shea Hampton - “…taught me a more intuitive style of acting.”

- A funny story and a lesson learned: “On one of my trips to L.A., I got there real early because I had an important meeting with a big network. However, I was given the wrong address and was so lost, not to mention, in the wrong part of town. After figuring this out, I got into a taxi and asked the driver to help me.

PHOTO BY: Anna Lisa Sang

Thankfully, I made the meeting just in time and pulled myself together. I remember the lady I met with -- the first thing she said -- I hate your headshot -- she was a little unkind throughout the meeting but I stayed calm. As I was almost done, she requested that I come in the following week for a role that she thought I would be good at.

Lesson learned: “In stressful situations, always stay grounded -- never let your mind discourage you.”

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Raine Magazine - Volume 10

HELLO

my name is: Get to know her…

Vanessa Branch

Fun facts: - Partial Credits: Perception (2012), Pirates of the Caribbean- Tales of the Code (Short), CSI Miami (TV) - First Accent: English: “My parents are British” - First acting experience: “I did my first play at 3 years old” - I love acting because: “When you’re doing film, more so theatre - it’s the first time there is real truth between people – in the sense where you have to let your guard down and the audience is equally vulnerable.”

- Greatest mentor/teacher: “ My parents have been most influential. They’ve been a real support for me and who I am.”

Photo by: Stephen Busken

A Challenging time: “When I was in college, I was offered to do an amazing role, however I didn’t take it.

Instead, I decided to study abroad in China.

While there, I saw that so many people didn’t have a choice or an opportunity to choose to do what they loved - it was then that I decided to go back to the US and pursue my passion. One often finds their destiny on the very path they take to avoid it.”

Words of Wisdom: “The most absolute important thing - especially being an artist - know yourself deeply well. Take the time to do that - and take the time to have every experience that is humanly possible.”

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ENTE RTAIN M E NT

EVENTS: RAINE RELEASE PARTY Raine Magazine celebrated the release of its Fashion Issue, Vol. 9 – at the very cheek Bar Basque in Chelsea, NY. The fashion issue featured young Hollywood’s rising stars, Annabelle Wallis and Jonathan Keltz along with more hypnotic fashion photography, travel destinations and cool tech toys.

The event was a full house within minutes of opening the door. The night began with soft music and complimentary cocktails provided by Svedka Vodka and moved into a DJ’d party and informal fashion preview by Designer, Aura Taylor. A sophisticated and diverse crowd included entrepreneurs and professionals from a mix of industries as well as pop recording artist Alex Young, Celebrity stylist Joe Exclusive, celebrity photographers, high-fashion models, rising designers, top bloggers as well as media from Fox News Entertainment and the New York Daily News.

Before leaving for the evening, guests received a glossy copy of Raine Magazine as well as the much anticipated gift bags from Epice International.

Model and Designer Aura Ta

yl or

es fr om Epice Representat iv

Inter nat ional Songstress Alex Young

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EVENTS: UNIQLO

Uniqlo had a grand launch event this past fall as it opened it's new uptown store, the largest in the world at 89,00 square feet, located at 5th Ave and 53rd St. in Manhattan, New York.

Andrew, Andrew

and G uest

Attendees of the event included Susan Sarandon, the face of their Made for All ad campaign, Laura Linney, John Varvartos, Glee's Darren Criss, John Leguizamo, David Karp and many others. Musical guests included Santigold, James Murphy, Vanguard Jazz Orchestra and soul singer Sharon Jones.

John Varvat os

Susan Sarandon

Photo Credits

: Courtesy

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of Uniqlo

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EVENTS: THE FULTON Another exciting launch that took place this fall was

by The Paige Management Group. They hosted the grand opening of their newest venue The Fulton in New York City - the Financial Districts first gastropub. Guests included: supermodel Jessica Hart, Tinsley Mortimer with boyfriend Brian Mazza (of Paige Management), as well The Fulton owners Matt Shendell and Alex Rodriguez. Partygoers such as NY Ranger's Brad Richards, Brandon Prust and Brian Boyle, as well as the stars of Bravo TV's The Real Housewives of New York City, Alex McCord and Simon van Kempen; were treated to menu selections

by Chef John Bond, specialty Belvedere cocktails and music by DJ Mel DeBarge, as they toasted to the new dining destination.

Jessica Hart

Tinsley Mort imer wit h B

rian Mazza

Matt Shendel l and A Photo Credit : Courtesy

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lex Rodriguez

of Paige Management

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EVENTS: OASIS DAY SPA

Photo courtesy of Oasis Day Spa

This past Fall, the award winning Oasis Day Spa (best of Westchester 3 years running, and Best of the Decade) hosted it’s last--and biggest--sunset social of the year. One night a month the spa hosts 100+guests in the rooftop garden. Guests enjoy Mini-spa treatments (facial, massages, manicures and spray tanning) as well as food, drink, and music. The end of summer soiree was done in tandem with Westchester Magazine to pay tribute to the spa being named as best of Westchester. Fittingly, other businesses who received the same accolades in their categories were invited to share their fare including Crabtree and Kittle House, City Chow House, Emma’s Ale House, Chantilly Patisserie, Prospero Winery, and Voss Water. Cosmedix Skincare provided a special Pomegranate Brightening peel for the evening and contributed to the deluxe goody bang alongside Anjolie Soaps, CND, and Trapp Candles, and Moroccan Oil. A live band provided entertainment on the roof, and in-house booking and retail specials were offered to all guests.

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Photo courtesy of Ondango

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®

Innovating Ecommerce for Facebook Will Etsy or EBay ever be the same?

Written by Nova Lorraine

Having moved from Chili to Munich, Germany in 2007 to obtain an MBA, José Matías has quickly made a mark for himself in the world of ecommerce and innovation. Now residing in Berlin, the European capital for startups, José is focused on his role as Co-founder and CEO of Ondango, the “go to” platform for selling or buying on Facebook. Will Facebook now be a threat to Ebay or Etsy?

As with many entrepreneurs, it wasn’t until after a short time in the corporate world, that José realized that he wanted to create a start-up. “I was working at a great position at Proctor and Gamble, however I did not like the narrow scope of my job.

I wanted to do something more meaningful with my professional life.”

It was this desire along with a friend who acted as the catalyst, which the idea of selling directly to one’s Facebook fan base was born.

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Ondango is not the first business venture for José. Shortly before finishing his industrial engineering degree he became very intrigued with everything Internet related. His first startup was a micro-encyclopedia for cell phones – think Wikipedia meets Twitter for mobile devices. However, avfter one year of development, it was a flop. “We found out that there was no demand for such a product. We made every mistake that could have been made in the areas of marketing and product development.” Serving more as a learning experience, this setback did not deter or dampen José’s vision of creating a successful company in the near future.

One day, a good friend from Hong Kong contacted José asking for his help in selling products directly to the Chilean marketplace. It was this query, which led to José finding a solution. “Facebook is really big in Chili – almost everyone has a Facebook account. Facebook would be the most logical and efficient way to penetrate the Chilean market.” Within months, Ondango was born. Ondango is a mechanism for people to sell products directly from their Facebook pages in a seamless, user-friendly way. “I tried a few existing shopping applications and the shopping experience was really bad. I saw an opportunity to build a worldclass shopping experience for Facebook.”

Ondango’s three-man team keeps the engine moving full speed ahead. Claudio Bredfeldt, Co-founder and the company’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO), is a good friend from school who José has known for over 20 years. Nicolas Dittberne, the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), is German and comes from Sponsorpay.com, a startup that developed a special payment system for the gaming industry.

About a year ago, when José and Claudio had the idea of Ondango – the first thing they did was to go to potential customers and explain their idea and have them signup for the software. “ In December 2010, we had our first rough online idea of Ondango.

We kept developing it further and acquiring customers in a closed Beta.” At the end of September, after closing their first round of financing, Ondango was officially launched. Now anyone can sign up and create their very own ecommerce shop on Facebook.

While in Beta, Ondango first started acquiring customers in Chili then moved on to Germany and began obtaining shops there. “We were exploring different verticals, we were looking at online shops, music, bands, hand made products, etc. Through Ondango’s market research, they realized their shops provided a great resource for music labels, bands, fashion labels, and other large online stores. They discovered that existing online shops have a loyal fan base and run contests and provide customer support on their Facebook pages. These companies can use Ondango as a great promotional tool. At the moment, bands use the Ondango shops the most. “Music bands have real fans on Facebook and most do not have a good ecommerce presence. Since musicians’ fans define themselves through their taste of music, they continuously buy merchandise from their favorite bands.” Ondango facilitates and simplifies this process.

Although innovative, Ondango will not replace traditional online shops. “We see our selves as a compliment, as ecommerce specialists on the Facebook channel.” Ondango is not seeking to replace existing online stores. Its goal is to offer a user-friendly Facebook option to other ecommerce platforms. For some, such as bands, sports teams, and fashion designers, Ondango may indeed be their main channel for sales.

Undeniably, the knowledge and insight José gained from the failure of his first startup, definitely prepared him to move quickly in launching Ondango. From October 2010 through March 2011, he grew Ondango with no financing at all. In March 2011, he received a scholarship from the European University Fund

to allow him to work on his new company full time and obtain his first employee: a salesperson. Shortly thereafter, Nicolas, their CMO, joined the team. It was at that time that Ondango began to seek financing. In August, about 5 months later, they closed the financing round after successfully raising six figures. Ondango was then publically launched in September.

As CEO, besides sales, HR and managing large accounts, José spends a good portion of his time focusing on the user experience. He really cares about how good the product feels to the customer. He wants to make the use of Ondango as seamless as possible while offering his clients an authentic Facebook experience. Now with 8 employees and quickly growing, Ondango focuses on their long-term goal of becoming the ecommerce layer for Facebook.

As a CEO of a rising startup, José shares some advice for others. “The one thing that I learned from my first experience – you really need to push your product out early on – no matter how bad it is – and get feedback as soon as possible to fix the kinks. About 90% of the time the entrepreneur’s first vision of the product is wrong. It usually changes along the way based on customer feedback. To be successful, one has to build what the market wants.” For more information or to open your own Ondango shop on Facebook, visit www.Ondango. com.

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T EC H TOYS

THE FUTURE OF SOCIAL NETWORKING Written by Nova Lorraine.

After selling his second startup to L’Oreal and graduating from the prestigious IMD, Stéphane Doutriaux is well on the way to making his newest startup, Poken, a global phenomenon. How many times have we found ourselves at a business or social function without a quick and easy way to collect and store information about the people we meet?

Often one is texting or calling the other person to, at the very least exchange phone numbers.

What about the many business cards that are collected when we’re out and about? Are they scanned into the computer, tossed in a never ending pile on the desk, stapled to a dated rolodex or lost at the bottom of our laptop bag? Poken is the newest buzz in the networking world. It truly puts the “social” into networking.

It is a small device that allows one to collect people, places or things. Companies such as BMW, IBM, Adobe and others have found this cool tech gadget as a great way of connecting the real world with their online network.

At the time, Stéphane was just an engineer from Canada, with one startup under his belt, prior to inventing one of the most sought after tech toys in the business world of networking. Stéphane began his studies in Montreal and graduated 12 years ago before he moved to Europe. While in the beautiful cultural hub of Montreal, with the help of family, friends and angel investors, he launched his first startup but had to shut it down during the bubble in 2000. Although, a Canadian on paper, Stéphane now considers himself a European after ending up in Switzerland to work in corporate data 46

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systems and CRM (Customer Relationship Management). After a few years in corporate Europe, Stéphane made the decision to go back to school to complete his MBA. Taking his exposure to the model of creating tools and empowering people to use those tools to sell services, the idea for the Poken was born.

The Poken is a pointer to collect data that is stored on the web. To enhance their internal or external social community, each individual company can customize it to their needs. “ We realized that people had ideas of what they wanted to do with this device -- beyond customizing with a company’s logo – so, we created a set of tools to create a web experience.” For example, a European jeans company has taken on the product and has integrated the Poken chip into their denim. The customers collect each other’s contact information amongst other things by swiping the denim with their Poken. The company’s objective is to create a brand community via concerts, nightclubs, etc.

The Poken is mostly found in the form of a very sleek or cutesy flash drive design. One has to touch a Poken with another Poken or Poken Tag to exchange information. The information exchanged could be contact information, brochures, images, music, etc. Companies that use the Poken, use the technology to create a new kind Internet experience. “For example, the Youth Olympic Games is using the Poken between athletes and coaches. The organization wanted to encourage athletes to attend information sessions. With the Poken, they made a game -- the athletes have to go around and collect certain achievements. Some of the achievements are at the events they attend. For every achievement they collect with their Poken, they gain points and win prizes.

In magazines and newspapers -- people tend to use QR Codes -- with the Poken technology -- a physical sticker or 2D tag is used. This is great for businesses to allow their employees to network at conferences and companies and to share additional product information at tradeshows. Retailers are using the Poken to have people create a wish list -- people can walk around the store and touch the products they want with their Poken.That information

then goes to the retailer.

“In every environment that the Poken is used, there’s a different need. “The Poken philosophy-- there always has to be a bidirectional exchange – one has to touch something. With most devices, it’s unilateral, the vendor scans your badge but the consumer doesn’t get anything out of it.” In terms of collection people, it’s been used in recruiting events and college campuses. The tools allow web agencies and developers to build on it and add different features to it.

The excitement of the versatility of the Poken is quickly spreading across industries. Poken technology is now in mobile phones. With cell phones, one can exchange information three ways: phone to Poken, phone to Poken Tag, or phone to phone. It becomes a great icebreaker when at a networking or social event. Nokia has begun installing Poken technology in all of its new models. “Just touch a compatible phone to a Poken -- it will read out the person’s business card.

Although, Stéphane hit many, many obstacles he never wanted to give up. “The entrepreneurial mindset is to keep going until there isn’t any hope at all. I went through many challenges, many times but never seen a product that draws such emotion from people and so much excitement. It has taken a long time to find out what that is and how we can make a business from it. It’s not perfect and far from where I would like it to be but I have to keep pushing and try to make it better. I’m one to not give up.”

Stéphane is happily married and spends time at home in between his extreme adventures such as: cycling across the Himalayas from China to Europe or hiking across Tibet. With the success of initially raising capital with the help of family, friends and professors, Stéphane created the newest tech toy to hit the streets of the networking stratosphere. Likened to the greats such as the founder of Swatch and Apple, the humble Stéphane, will stay true to his vision: “see Poken grow into a household name. “

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LUQMAN: Art in Photography Raine Magazine - Volume 10

by Leslie Ashford Motley

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Looking at his inspired photography, it’s hard to believe it wasn’t obvious to him that he was born to be a photographer.

Luqman came to the U.S. in 1985 to study Architecture at the University of Houston in Houston, TX. He was interested in art: painting and drawing; but photography wasn’t on his radar.

His exposure to photography was limited to a few classes that required the use of an AE-1 Cannon manual camera, shooting black and whites. He admits to really enjoying the classes in college, but didn’t see it in his future. It remained a hidden talent until some years later. Today, it’s a different story. His artistic acumen complements his technical expertise and culminates into a dynamic art form.

Luqman has big plans for his career. Future projects include motion pictures, a book, and work with Noor Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in Nigeria. He sees himself moving into directing films, which will surely prove interesting with his artistic style and insight. The book will be a

W

ho is the man behind these captivating, intense, passionate images? He is Luqman, a Nigerianborn photographer, who describes himself as “a moving target.”

Moving target is right! Our team tracked him down in France for a telephone interview at 8pm EST, which was 2am there. Even at that late hour of the night, his calm, laid back demeanor was jazz cool.

It was interesting to tap into the mind of the man behind the camera. He thinks deeply. He believes a person is defined by the work of his hands. That belief is evident in the beauty and clarity in his photography. He takes extreme care to create crisp, vivid images that evoke strong feelings. For him it’s more that merely taking pictures. Luqman says, “I’m still experimenting.

I try to strip down the clutter.” He wants precision and clarity from the images he produces. He strives to keep shots as simple as possible. Achieving such simplicity, he admits, is actually very complicated. He says, “Even when I travel, I pack light. I try to keep things simple.”

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personal collection of his photography, a treasure for art lovers.

He’ll also direct art projects for Noor Foundation, whose mission is uplifting impoverished communities. Luqman will work specifically in the area of building schools and recreation centers for orphaned children in Nigeria and other African countries. He takes pride in being able to give back to his home country using his artistic abilities.

It’s pretty fair to say that most artists have a passion to do their craft. Luqman’s passion for photography gives him a euphoric experience. “I wind up in a meditative state of mind, when I’m creating.” He not only creates for personal reasons, but also for clients who use his talent to create images that meet their needs. He’s definitely not in the business solely for money, though. He says, “You have to be motivated by more than just making money. The money is not air. Without air in our lungs, we die. Passion has to be your air. Money isn’t passion, but a tool to realize your passion.”

Luqman tries to capture his dreams or answer philosophical questions in his work. “I want to answer questions like: What is beautiful? What is justice? What is fun? What is sex? What is fantasy? Or, what is real?” His quest is a courageous one that yields breathtakingly colorful shots of people, places, and things against a myriad of striking backgrounds. Travel also informs his artistic photo shoots. “I love to travel. I appreciate the beauty that travel offers: the landscape and the humanscape.”

Landscape is obvious, but humanscape for him is the varied textures, shades, shapes, and personalities of the people he meets in different parts of the world.

His creative work is influenced by a unique capacity to draw into and expose the global human fabric. Simply put, you pay attention to his work. It’s truly art in photography.

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C U LTUR E

Sand Sculpture:

Sheer Muscle Pure Artistry

By Marilyn R. Wilson Photos courtesy of Sandemons

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Moscow

Art comes in many forms, but none quite like sand sculpture. You work on a large scale, sometimes solo and sometimes as part of a team. The first half is sheer muscle - the second pure artistry. Usually the sculptor creates in front of a constantly changing audience who frequently return to check progress. Days can be long and gruelling as those commissioning the work often do not understand the number of man hours needed to complete a project. David Billings, owner and creative force behind Sandemons - Sand Sculpture Company, is one of only 250 professional sand sculptors world wide. Although in the business for 20 years, he still gets a rush of adrenaline every time a new opportunity arises.

Billings grew up surrounded by music and art. Sketching was a particular passion and he spent hours as a teenager putting ideas to paper. After graduation, though, he went straight into the work force. It wasn’t until his late 20’s that he discovered sand sculpture. “A friend of mine was involved with a group of guys doing beach contests along the West Coast.

He invited me to give it a try and I caught on fairly quickly. We did it for free beer, t-shirts and lunch.” In 1991, Billings decided he wanted to explore new directions and formed his own team. Sandemons was born.

Each project starts the same – with sand. A very large open box – a block – is set on site. It is filled with sand, sprayed with water and then compacted. Another slightly smaller block is placed on top and the process is repeated until the correct height is reached. The top form then is removed and the artist stands on a lower block to carve the exposed sand. Block by block the sculptor works from the top down until the artwork is complete. Once finished, the sand is sprayed with a protective skin. At most competitions the artists have to shovel and compact the sand manually. Billings remembers one solo event where he personally shovelled 15 tons of sand in four hours. Then he had to set about sculpting.

Sand sculpture as an industry has now evolved from teams into companies. When a new work is commissioned, the company hires independent artists to come on board. Billings is sometimes the employer and sometimes the employee. “If I hire a number of sculptors for a project I’m working on, then I will get hired for their projects. You get onto these circuits where you go to work for other incredibly talented sand sculptors.” This has meant the chance to work internationally in Raine Magazine - Volume 10

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Disney Themed Sand Sculpture in park in Zhoushan, China

Disney Themed Sand Sculpture in park in Zhoushan, China

places like Italy, Spain, Portugal, Russia, Qatar and China under some of the top artists in the business.

Billings’ favourite job to date was Dubai. “It was the very first project for my company. No one wanted to go to the Middle East, but I took it as an opportunity to experience something new. They treated us like kings and the culture was not like anything I had ever seen before. We even made the cover of Friday Magazine, an exclusive woman’s magazine. This was only the second time a man had been on the cover. The other person was the Sheik, so we were in good company.”

Sandemons has worked on a wide variety of events: indoor and out; corporate and private; from small projects using 100 tons of sand to those using over 1,000; county fairs and retail stores; and those involving other mediums such as snow, pumpkins, ice and chocolate. October 2010 saw the company commissioned by a mega-shopping mall in Western Canada to create one of the biggest displays of carved giant pumpkins to date. 65 enormous gourds, the largest a whopping 1,137 pounds, were sculpted over several weeks into an award winning display that brought a record number of visitors to the mall. What Billings always reminds his clients is that organic sculptures evolving over time produce income. “With a static display people usually go to see it once. The big draw of what we do is seeing the artwork created. It attracts people and they’ll come back again and again to check what happens next.”

In 2010, Billings made the decision to leave his “other” job to focus full-time on what he has always considered his “real” career – Sandemons.

This has opened the door to wider opportunities. One is developing sand sculpting competitions that better meet the needs of the artists. Money is offered for those coming to compete, more time is given to create the sculptures and best of all, sand is already on site pre-compacted into blocks and ready to carve – removing what was a back-breaking job. Fully, enclosed ice bars and igloos are also in development and the list keeps growing.

Sandemons - Sand Sculpture Company is now recognized internationally and David Billings has collaboratively created a body of work that is second to none. To those who might want to explore this form of art he offers sage advice. “It takes a lot of years to learn the techniques and get respect from other artists. The more people you work with that are better than you, the better you get.”

For more information, photography or bookings go to www.sandemons.com.

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C U LTUR E | DANC E

F R O M B R O A D WAY T O 7 U P - A L O V E F O R D AN C E ®

Written by Karleen Hemrick Award winning Jamel Gaines is the Founder of Jamel Gaines’ Creative Outlet (CO), an artistic and educational dance theater located in Brooklyn, NY. Gaines’ work has graced the commercial stages of three seasons of “So You Think You Can Dance”, popular TV commercials such as “7 UP” as well programming on PBS. He’s also been in notable artists collaboration with: Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Jennifer Holiday, amongst others. Alumni of CO are some of the country’s most gifted performers. They have continued to perform on Broadway in the Lion King, Aida, Fela, The Color Purple, Memphis, and with today’s hottest artists/choreographers such as: Beyonce, Rihanna, Paula Abdul, Tina Turner, Usher, and Debbie Allen.

Jamel Gaines’ Creative Outlet is a cutting edge, noteworthy educational and artistic organization that encompasses the full spectrum of dance and performance. Gaines describes CO as “a modern fusion with African elements, incorporating classical, ballet, and hip-hop movements that echoes the voices and spirit of the people”.

Jamel Gaines’ Creative Outlet began in 1994 and is a representation of Gaines’ dream to bring dance to all ages and nationalities, while touching all facets of people’s lives.

Gaines’ vision isn’t just about dance. “I still see myself as the 9 year old, wide-eyed child, still wowed by how art connects with all things in life. In art lies a commonality that binds all of us regardless of background or status. It is for people of all ages and experience levels.”

Gaines’ Creative Outlet provides a forum for performing artists whose talents include theater, the spoken word, live music and the visuals in the form of video and photographic work. It’s almost impossible to leave a performance and not be so inspired to want to come back again, and again, and again. The productions and performers hypnotize the senses, capture the very essence of the presentations, and share their passion with the audience in a way that is not only moving to ones’ soul, but also stirring to the conscience and compelling to the mind. “Remembering-Lest We Forget” is a brilliant example of one of the company’s finest works. It not only aims to educate and inform us about a historical period in America, it weaves and invokes the African diaspora through a multi-media production. Gaines’ CO productions are more than mere entertainment; their repertoire awakens and draws attention to both cultural and social issues.

Jamel Gaines is deeply passionate about everything his company is involved with. He speaks of Jamel Gaines’ Creative Outlet as if he is talking about his love for a child. He relates that managing and directing CO is similar to purchasing a home. “It’s relatively easy to purchase one and while seldom considered at the time of purchase, the upkeep, over time, can be a burden in terms of both time and dollars.”

His biggest challenge today remains raising finances to support the legacy and keep the dream of art alive for all who seek it. He hopes to develop programming for television and other mediums, and is always on the lookout for financial backers or sponsors willing to support the concept of “No boundaries” into the future.

For a schedule of events, or find more information about the organization, visit: www.creativeoutlet.org.

JAmeL gaines founder and ceo

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WH E R E TO S TAY, EAT AND CH IL L

The Tower Club at Lebua

GE T

P A M P ERE D

IN

THAILAND

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Researched by Nekisha Slade

Tower Club at Lebua is Bangkok’s finest 5-star executive all-suite, all-club hotel offering breathtaking balcony views of Bangkok and the Chao-Phraya River from each of its spacious suites. Each of Tower Club’s 221 suites beginning on the 51st to 59th floors come with Finesse mattresses, 330 thread count linen, down feather pillows, and all the amenities to ensure an unforgettable stay.

Tower Club guests can enjoy such privileges as exclusive-to-Lebua Bvlgari amenities, free soft drinks in minibar, complimentary in-suite broadband Internet access, LCD television monitors with free video on demand, and priority dining reservations at The Dome. Guests also have access to the Tower Club Lounge on the 52nd floor, where complimentary canapés and drinks are served daily in addition to afternoon high tea.

Tower Club at Lebua is located on the corner of Charoen Krung and Silom roads, and a short stroll from the venerable Chao Phraya River. The hotel is also just a 40-minute drive from

Suvarnabhumi International Airport and a 10-minute walk from the BTS Sky Train’s Saphan Taksin station.

An outdoor 50-meter pool and children’s pool are tucked away in a private corner of the mezzanine level, surrounded by tropical landscaping. On the same floor is a fully equipped fitness center with sauna cum steam room, swimming pool and jetted tub. Four massage rooms offer a range of massage treatments, such as the traditional Thai massage, Oriental foot massage, relaxation massage, back and shoulder deep massage, Thai foot massage, and Recovery Express massage.

Ranging from 66 to 266 square meters, each of the 221 well appointed suites feature warm, contemporary décor accented by hardwood floors and honey beige and light brown furnishings.

Colonnaded balconies in every suite provide panoramic city or river views in this all-suite hotel that offers kitchenettes in every suite, with select units equipped with a washer and dryer. A variety of complimentary fresh fruit and newspapers add a daily finishing touch.

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Photos courtesy of Lebua Hotels & Resorts 58

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TRAVE L

Basking in

Barbados

By Michelle Winters

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In the mood for coral reefs, a snorkeling tour or being a guest on a submarine for a unique view of the underwater world? Then Barbados is the place for you. Known for it’s magnificent beaches, calm waves and much welcomed privacy, Barbados offers a lot to the avid traveler.

Photos courtesy of the Brandman Agency Raine Magazine - Volume 10

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The west coast is known for its refinement and exclusive luxury while the south coast with St. Lawrence Gap’s many nightclubs and eateries, is an option for a busier feel.

However, if you’re just looking for ultra blue waters and sunshine for 8 – 9 hours a day, you can’t go wrong with your choice of stay.

Sandy Lane

For first time travelers, two properties come to mind:

The Crane

Southeast Coast

The Crane Resort: The location is undeniable Perched atop the pink sands of Crane Beach, The Crane Resort is a four-star resort located along one of the “top 10 beaches in world” – according to Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. This is the oldest operating hotel in the Caribbean with original historical references to the 18th century. For peace and quite along a unique cliff top setting, with the ocean as your backdrop, give The Crane Resort a try. http:// www.thecrane.com/

Sandy Lane 62

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South Coast

Escape to Barbados for serenity, amazing views, and Caribbean charm.

Looking for more to do off resort? Then stay a night or two at the Ocean 2. The Ocean 2 is a Four Star Condominium-Hotel located within walking distance to an array of restaurants and lively nightspots; you will have plenty to do from sun up to sun down. http://www.oceantwobarbados.com/

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Take a step back in time in British Columbia Written and Photographed by Yila D.

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For a change of pace and to feel like you are perhaps in a prior time, visit 100 Mile House. With its many colorful trees and leaves and a population of 1, 885, this rural area is very beautiful in the autumn. 100 Mile House is located on a plateau in south-central British Columbia, Canada which is about 458km/284mi northeast from Vancouver and 95km/60mi south of Williams Lake via Highway 97.

Originally named Bridge Creek House, the community was established in the mid 1800s as a major rest stop and supply station for gold seekers traveling via the Fraser River and Lillooet. It was renamed 100 Mile House because its location is 100 miles from the town of Lillooet, which was then Mile 0.

Eventually, ranches were established on the fertile plateau and near Dog Creek, located east of the Fraser River. West of the Fraser and near 100 Mile, the Gang Ranch was once one of the largest ranches in the world.

Today, this peaceful, rural community is the retail and service centre for the south Cariboo area.

After a day of exploring 100 Mile’s myriad activities, visitors will find comfort in the area’s guest ranches, B&Bs or campsites. The only hustle and bustle to be heard might be the call of the birds and geese flying across the forest or the rustle of a startled deer.

The rural area is very beautiful in Autumn with coloful trees and leaves.

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B EAUT Y

Luxe Beauty

by Kia Rodriquez

Studies have shown that sticking to a routine in the morning will increase the effectiveness and productivity of your entire day. This routine should definitely include presenting the best possible you everyday and it will take some product investment to achieve your beauty goals. But aren’t you worth it?

THE PERFECT PAIR PUREOLOGY FOR HAIR If you look into your cabinets today, you will find an overabundance of products that promises greatness but never quite lives up to the claims. It’s time to clear off your shelves and make room for Pureology for hair. This pair of luxe grooming tools, when used as a part of your daily routine, can produce amazing results. Take a look at these paired products for the hair to achieve that high profile look that you have always wanted.

Pair #1 for Hair Step 1: Pureology Hydrate System Hydracure A little bit goes a long way here and this Vegan product is made from 100% organic botanicals. Who knew Mother Earth could provide such great results? Using Shea butters,

jojoba, mango and avocado, the Hydracure intensely moisturizes like no other product.

Step 2: Pureology Hydrate System Shinemax This weightless gel goes on like silk and instantly smooths flyaways. With its ability to be used on both wet or dry hair, the styling possibilities are endless. This alcohol-free formula penetrates to strengthen and protect the hair, while adding the perfect amount of shine to every style.

Pair Perk: Both products are infused with the Anti-fade Complex for color treated hair & both are infused with an allergen-free blend of aromatherapy botanicals that smell heavenly.

Products are only available through dermatologists, plastic surgeons, & medical spas.

Pair #2 For Face Step 1: Before Skin: Skin Therapeutics This AHA Rejuvenating cleanser is formulated with alpha and beta hydroxy acids that exfoliate your skin, creating the perfect surface for makeup application. Skin Therapeutics contains only premium, medical grade ingredients giving you access to the best of the best. This is a favorite for high profile clientele who are very serious about their skincare.

Step 2: Chanel Perfection Lumiere Fluid Makeup

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It’s Chanel. Need we say more? Yes, because this long-wear fluid makeup is lightweight and oil free - leaving you with a flawlessly smooth face. You can use a special foundation brush to apply it or because of its rich nature, you can simply use your fingers to create the look you want. Of course, the entire Chanel makeup line is worth any investment but Perfection Lumiere is a good place to start.

Pair Perk: Though not from the same brand, using ultra high-end products whose quality is unmatched, will definitely show amazing results.

B E AUT Y

Photos courtesy Sula NYC 72

Raine Magazine - Volume 10

Patricia Reinders of Sula NYC Gives the World Pure Desire.

Written by Tamara Walker

Meet CEO, Patricia Reinders, a woman whose passion for travel gave rise to a beauty company that combines centuries of old beauty traditions within the secrets of Morocco with an ultra-luxe contemporary lifestyle. Sula NYC is a burgeoning new beauty brand with an amazing array of products designed to promote soft, radiant skin through exfoliation— the secret to healthy, youthful skin.

Patricia first discovered Argan Oil during her travels on North Africa.” I met Berbers (an indigenous people of North Africa) who despite a very arid and hot climate still had fabulous skin,” says Reinders. “I had to know what their secret was. That’s when they told me about their beauty rituals in the Hammams (spas) and the natural products like Argan Oil that the Berber people have been using for centuries. And of course, regular exfoliation was key.

“At this point I was using the oils and pastes I brought back from Morocco all the time and everyone wanted to know my secret. I worked in the New York hospitals as an executive and when my particular hospitals began closing, I decided to turn my love for beautiful skin into an opportunity to introduce a relatively unknown exfoliation and cleansing method to all my friends in Europe, the United States and South America.”

Sula NYC’s signature perfume, Fruit of Desire, is truly an international creation for the American-based brand. Created with Swiss master perfumers, Sula NYC’s Fruit of Desire combines the sensual fragrances of Osmanthus and Purple Fig with the rich floral aromas of Ylang Ylang and Jasmine Sambac with the moisturizing properties of Argan Oil to produce the ultimate scented moisturizer. This has quickly become the gem of the Sula NYC collection.

Recently, Sula NYC announced an exclusive partnership with Okeanos Spa, located at the luxurious Renaissance Marina Hotel in Oranjestad, Aruba. Known for its decadent services and skin treatments, the spa also gives guests access to the only private beaches on the island.

The New York-based company became the Okeanos’ new beauty brand of choice and represented the launch of Sula NYC’s Fruit of Desire Pure Argan Oil in the Caribbean.

Sula NYC represents tradition with a contemporary spin. Alongside Argan Oil, the collection of products features premium natural ingredients, primarily essential oils, mineral clays and vitamins. Sula NYC has created a line that promotes luminous, youthful skin—something women around the world crave for. “ Sula NYC sees the world as its customers,” says Patricia.

Ideally the Sula client is a customer that desires healthy, smooth, glowing skin and respects the resources of the environment.

“As we live in a competitive society and desire to be different from other companies, the method and products I introduced to the US market have had a proven track record for centuries – with no pseudo-scientific marketing lingo but just pure all natural products. I have also developed a sensual fragrance, Fruit of Desire, to add to the line as well.”

Alongside the Fruit of Desire, Sula also has brought another signature product into their collection, the Exfoliating Olive Soap. Designed to facilitate the skin’s natural renewal process to create radiant skin, this soap is made with 100% natural olive paste and is a low-foam soap. When combined with Sula’s special textured mitt, it creates the smoothest, softest cleansed surface by removing the dead skin cells and toxins and thus preparing the skin for renewal. The exfoliating soap is so gentle that it can be used daily as a body wash. For more information about Sula NYC visit www.sulanyc.com.

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B EAUT Y

Loren Ridinger

Entrepreneur Superstar Empowers Women All over the World Researched by Tamalyn Stewart and Carlotta Harrington

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Photos courtesy MotivesÂŽ by Loren Ridinger Raine Magazine - Volume 10

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RECENTLY

named one of the Top 50 Most Motivational People on the Web by Under30CEO.com and with a website named to the Forbes list of the top 100 Websites For Women, Loren Ridinger redefines what it means to be a creative and unconventional entrepreneur.

As the Senior Vice President of Internet retailing giants Marketamerica.com and SHOP. COM, creator of the award winning cosmetic line, Motives® by Loren Ridinger as well as the uber-luxurious skincare line, Cellular Laboratories™– Loren continues to make her mark in the beauty and fashion world. With close to 140,000 Facebook and Twitter fans and a top empowering blog for women, Loren inspires tens of thousands of women on a daily basis through her words and her products. Raine catches up with Loren to discuss her sought after Motives makeup line.

RAINE: What separates Motives brand from other cosmetic brands in the market?

RAINE: How did you come up with the formula for this collection?

LOREN: The Motives brand is about delivering exceptional makeup that doesn’t sacrifice quality for price. Everything in the line is amazing to the touch and the variety of the line offered is extensive, reaching not only the consumer, but many celebrity makeup artists as well.

LOREN: I am used to having the best of the best and if I were going to launch a cosmetic line, it would have to be with the finest ingredients and production. While formulating Motives I also took into consideration the specific ingredients that can help the skin’s natural ability to deflect lines and creases. This customized approach combines a selection of revolutionary foundations, powders and concealers to create the perfect canvas for the application of color to the eyes, cheeks and lips. I then tried every product on the market and partnered with a top manufacturer who promised to deliver unsurpassed quality, as well as exclusive formulas and colors…from there, Motives® by Loren Ridinger was born.

RAINE: How did Motives get its start?

LOREN: I have had a love for makeup since I was a little girl! My mother loved makeup and was a big influence on me. So, I naturally started using makeup at an early age and loved playing around with my own color combinations and mixing colors. It was natural for me to create a line of my own. I wanted to create a line that would allow women to feel beautiful, so every woman could enjoy high quality, custom-formulated cosmetics.The Motives line is infused with antioxidants and vitamins that enhance true beauty and nourish the skin.

RAINE: How did you come up with the name Motives?

LOREN: It was all about the motive of helping women look and feel beautiful, not only on the outside but the inside. Makeup is magic, when you look your best, you feel your best. That was the “motive”.

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RAINE: What collection?

is your

inspiration

behind the

LOREN: My inspiration is to empower women through beauty and business. Motives offers women the ability to look their best as well as the opportunity to generate an additional income by doing what they love and helping others look beautiful. I also want to share my passion with other women and allow others to provide input on creating beautiful looks no matter what their skin shade, color or background. Truthfully, there is no better feeling than seeing a woman’s face after a makeover with Motives. That alone was enough for me.

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RAINE: Where is Motives produced?

RAINE: What are the 5 biggest mistakes women make when shopping for makeup?

LOREN: In the USA. RAINE: What demographics are you marketing to?

Who are your customers?

LOREN:

LOREN: Motives® by Loren Ridinger caters to everyone, especially the woman who is everything to everyone. The entrepreneur with a crazy schedule, the very busy stay-at-home mom, as well as professional makeup artists, actresses and young professionals.

Motives® by Loren Ridinger is an international brand which is sold in Canada, Philippines, Taiwan, Hong Kong, UK and Australia, in addition to the US.

· Buying products they don’t necessarily need

RAINE: What kind of marketing are you using to gain interest? Are you using social media?

·Purchasing the wrong color lipstick hence throwing off the entire look of someone’s face

LOREN: As an avid social media addict, I use Facebook and Twitter pages daily to connect with close to 140,000 of my amazing followers and friends. I also market Motives® by Loren Ridinger to women everywhere through my personal blogs MyFashionCents and Loren’s World, which was recently named a Forbes’ Top 100 Website for Women.

·Wearing too much foundation and powder…Always the biggest mistake

RAINE: What is the price point?

LOREN: Motives® by Loren Ridinger products range from $10.00$35.00. We also offer a kit for professional makeup artists, which start at $750.00.

RAINE: What Motives’ product should every woman have in her makeup bag?

LOREN: Motives® No More Shine Setting Spray, Motives® Lustrafy mascara, Motives® Pucker Up Lip Plumper in Temptress and Motives® Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation with SPF 15.

· Mismatching the shade of their skin with the wrong shade of the makeup · Often buying something for the look of it but not for the functionality for their skin

RAINE: If someone had problems with blemishes and wanted to cover them up,which of your products would you recommend and why?

LOREN: Motives® by Loren Ridinger Correction Perfection concealer because it has a precision tip wand that allows you to hide dark shadows, create highlights all while covering up a blemish. It is so smooth and creamy that it never cakes.

RAINE: How would a woman quickly change her makeup from daytime casual to nighttime elegant?

LOREN: Add a smoky eye using Motives Luxe Precision Eye Line in Noir, add additional Lustrafy mascara and a pair of false lashes, (Bombshell is my favorite!) these three things adds elegance to anyone’s look! Also, a metallic eye shadow adds a sexy and flirty complement to anyone’s outfit. Lastly, for the lips to stand out, a shiny gloss preferably Motives® Pucker up Lip Plumper in Temptress finishes the look off for the perfect nighttime elegance.

RAINE: What’s one sentence that would best sum up the Motives Brand?

LOREN: The Motives brand is about feeling empowered to achieve your dreams while looking and feeling your best all the time.

RAINE: Where can our reader find Motives cosmetic products?

LOREN: Motives® by Loren Ridinger is available for purchase through motivescosmetics.com as well as through personal motives consultants all over the world.

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DR . S P ICER REVOLUTIONIZES S K INCARE FOR MEN AND WOMEN Researched by Kenneth Smith

Dr. Spicer, the Founder and CEO of Epice International is a renowned Dermatologist with a desire to bring beauty and medicine together in a product line that works exceptionally well for both men and women. Dr. Spicer was born in Trinidad and at age sixteen he moved to the United States to attend Rutger’s University and then UMDNJ medical school in New Jersey. Shortly after residency, Dr.Spicer settled in Florida were he joined a flourishing Dermatology practice. After seeing the devastations of skin cancer and meeting a gentleman in the beauty industry, he was inspired to bring a new skincare brand into an increasingly competitive marketplace, knowing he could make a difference.

With an exclusive formula and meeting a need in the market for a skincare line that includes product that not only protects your skin from the damaging effects of the sun but also rejuvenates it with the essence of apples, Dr. Spicer has pleased both men and women from all over the world with his innovative skincare line. Raine sits down with Dr. Spicer to learn more about Epice International and the man behind this ever-expanding brand.

RAINE: What inspires you as an entrepreneur?

DR. SPICER: Knowing that I am contributing to society and sharing a premium product at a reasonable price. When I hear that an Epice skin care client report that they don’t have to wear make-up because their skin is clear for the first time in years, it makes all the hard work worthwhile.

RAINE: How does Epice differ from other products on the market?

DR. SPICER: Many skin care products, and dermatologic prescriptions, are geared to treat certain skin conditions, but there is no maintenance care.

Although there are therapeutic ingredients in many of the Epice products, they are to be used for maintaining healthy skin. Epice products offer maintenance skin care to keep the skin healthy.

RAINE: Where is the line currently distributed?

DR. SPICER: Although primarily online, it is distributed to dermatology offices and medi-spas throughout Florida.

RAINE: What international markets has the company broken into?

DR. SPICER: Apart from the US, it is available in Barbados, and soon to be available in England, Holland and the Caribbean.

RAINE: How would you sum up the brand in one sentence?

DR. SPICER: Epice is a premium product at a reasonable price to protect, achieve and maintain healthy skin.

RAINE: What do your customers say they like about the product?

DR. SPICER: The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Clients seem to like the feel of the products on their skin as well as how their skin feels after using the products. They say their skin is a cleaner, fresher, and just feels healthier.

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RAINE: What are two big mistakes that people make about their skin and what advice can you give to help them?

DR. SPICER: The biggest mistake is sun exposure.

Most skin damage comes from UV rays from the sun.

Looking older, fine lines, wrinkles, brown spots, and thin skin all come from sun exposure over the course of one’s life. As our population gets older, these problems become more and more evident.

An ounce of prevention by using a daily facial sunscreen will prevent about 80% of looking older.

Another mistake is not tailoring one’s skin care and using products that don’t suit the right skin type. For example, if you have oily skin you may be able to use the Epice toner 3 times a week, whereas if you have sensitive skin, I would only recommend using it once a week. If you have acneic skin, the Epice Restorative Toner and the Epice Hydrating Facial Mask work well together.

If you have sensitive skin, the Epice Hydrating Cleanser and the Epice Daily Facial Moisturizer are preferred.

RAINE: Is there a particular food or fruit that you recommend that would benefit one’s skin?

DR. SPICER: A balanced healthy diet is recommended for general skin health.

I encourage daily Vitamin D3 supplements, antioxidant vegetables and fruits high in Vitamin C. RAINE: What are some of the rewards you get from being an entrepreneur?

DR. SPICER: Knowing that I can make a difference in someone’s life from my ideas and creations.

RAINE: What were some of the obstacles that you faced as an entrepreneur?

DR. SPICER: Time. As a full time Dermatologist, serving as Treasure on the World Skin Cancer Foundation Board, and raising two preteen daughters – it’s difficult to find the time to develop the business as quickly as I would like.

RAINE: What advice would you give an aspiring entrepreneur?

DR. SPICER: No matter how hard things become, never give up because the outcome will always be worth the stress endured.

To learn more about the Epice line, visit www.epiceinternational.com

Raine Magazine - Volume 10

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FA SH ION TO L IV E FOR

SWEDISH BILLIONAIRE BUILDS A

Fashion Legacy: H&M

Researched by Kenneth Smith and Jasmin Forrest

Photographer: Florence Leung @ www.flotography.ca Models:Cecilia S. & Kate K. Make up artists: Tommy Chiang & Cherry Mai Hairstylist: Cherry Mai Wardrobe stylist: Sarah Danniels Assistant: Jeremy Hsu Kate (left): Dress H&M, Tights American Apparel, Earrings H&M Cecilia(right): Dress H&M, Scarf American Apparel

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“H” is for Hennes and “M” is for Mauritz. Erling Persson began his famous retail store in 1947 in Vasteras, Sweden – initally named Hennes, a Swedish word meaning “hers”. Erling sold only women’s clothes prior to purchasing Mauritz and Widforss, a hunting store, in 1968. The store then became Hennes and Mauritz, selling both men’s and women’s clothing from that point on. Since 1982, H & M has experienced rapid growth and now has over 2300 stores in more than 43 markets. Germany is the biggest market, followed by the United Kingdom and then Sweden. In 2000, the first US store, was launched in New York City. From 1982 – 1998, Stefan Persson, Erling’s son, ran the company as CEO and then as the Executive Chairman of the Board until 2009. Before turning the reigns over to his sons Karl-Johan and Thomas Persson in May 2011, his estimated net worth was $24.5 billion.

Accidental or purposeful, Erling created a concept that will continue to resonate with millions. It was during a trip to the US in 1947 that gave Erling the idea of creating a new kind of clothing store: one that combined high fashion with low prices. The retailer has expanded greatly on this concept and since 2004; the retail juggernaut has teamed up with some of the hottest and most exclusive designer labels to bring limited edition runway fashion to the masses. Some of the most notable collaborations include Karl Lagerfeld, Roberto Cavali, Kylie Mingue, Comme de Garcon, Mathew Williamson, Versace and most recently Marni. H & M continues to be a leader in fashion trends and a favorite amongst the stylish yet price conscious, worldwide.

Kate is wearing Top H&M, Skirt H&M, Socks Urban Outfitters, Shoes Red Carpet Collection Raine Magazine - Volume 10

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KATIE IS WEARING TALULA TOP, H&M, BRA AMERICAN APPAREL, BANGLE ALSO ACCESSORIES

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CECILIA IS WEARING BODY SUIT AMERICAN APPAREL, SKIRT H&M, BOOTS DKNY, EARRINGS H&M Raine Magazine - Volume 10

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Photo courtesy of The Mixx

B USIN E S S

THE

In this issue we are bringing back The Raine

RAINE AWARD 84

Award. In the past, the Raine Award has gone to entrepreneurs who have shown an undeniable passion and commitment to their fields of choice and have made significant strides along the way. Congratulations Robyn for making a difference in the vast and ever-changing world of branding - as you work daily with some of the globe’s greatest brands: Mercedes Benz, Viacom and Johnson and Johnson.

Raine Magazine - Volume 10

ENTREPRENEUR ROBYN STREISAND – Passion, Creativity and Integrity

By Noah B. Haskell

Robyn Streisand began her career at Citibank where

and interactive strategy. At the core of her business,

she worked in their marketing department and focused

remains: innovation, collaboration, integrity, emphasis

on acquiring new customers and creating long lasting

on human relations and relentless passion for doing

relationships. It was here that her relentless passion for

excellent work the very values that were absent in her

work and hunger for success began to materialize. Young,

dealings with larger agencies so many years ago.

fervent and unafraid of the unknown, she embraced her role and started cultivating the creativity that would mark

“Most entrepreneurs feel that they need to know

the rest of her career. However, while working with her

everything from the start,” Streisand says, “but it’s

partner agencies, Streisand began noticing a discernible

really about what you don’t know and how you choose

gap in the deliverables that the large corporations were

to face the challenge of the unknown.” She attributes

offering to her as a client. There was an emphasis on

her success to the modest background from which she

“doing” rather than “thinking”, and it felt that little or

came, where she acquired a problem solving mentality

no attention was being paid to what the client was truly

that will stick with her the rest of her life.

asking for. Rather than collaboration and creativity, the partnerships revolved around established practices and

At The Mixx, Streisand focuses on global brands – names

inflexible methods that produced cookie-cutter solutions

like Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, Viacom and Mercedes-

that fell short of satisfactory.

Benz – and creates strategic ways in which to bring them local. She leads a team of problem solvers who approach

Someone was needed to step out and break the mold,

each business and its needs; the way they would their

and Streisand knew there was no one more fitting than

own – with the perspective and vision needed to create

herself to take on the role. Leaving Citibank in 1988, she

clarity. The Mixx operates on the basis that while the goal

started a graphic design company that focused mostly

of every brand is to create consumer commitment, the

on print and logo development, predominantly for the

challenge is for them is to find the right connection. At

financial services and communications community. Eight

the core of this mentality is an entrepreneurial spirit that

years later she founded The Mixx (www.themixxnyc.

recognized an industry gap, and has worked relentlessly

com) – a strategic branding and marketing firm that

to fill it.

offers a wider variety of services including digital media

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RAINE MAKE R

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER AUTHOR:

ERIC VAN LUSTBADER A New E xc i t i n g J a s o n B o u r n e Th r i lle r !

Eric Van Lustbader is an internationally bestselling novelist. The Ninja, his first novel, became an overnight sensation, hitting the bestseller lists all over the world. He has since written more than thirty novels, short stories, and novellas.

In 2001, he was tapped by the Ludlum Estate to continue the Jason Bourne series. To date, he has written seven Bourne novels to great acclaim. The Bourne Imperative will be published in June 2012. His current series stars Jack McClure. Father Night, the fourth novel in the series, will appear in September 2012. The Bourne Legacy, the title of his first Bourne novel, will be a major motion picture release in July. 2012.

RAINE: I understand you travel all over the world in researching your novels.

VAN LUSTBADER: That’s right. It’s exciting and one of my great pleasures. There are favorite places I keep going back to, like Paris and Bali, to name a few, which have had significant roles in various Bourne books. There’s nothing like walking the streets of a foreign city and then writing about them.

RAINE: But there are other places you write about that you haven’t been to. Why and how does that work?

VAN LUSTBADER: Since I’m often writing about terrorism I can’t go to Afghanistan or Syria – actually anywhere in the Middle East these days. I have friends who work over there, so I get my “intel” first-hand. I was taught to research that way, rather than relying on books, which are almost always biased. And as for Moscow, which has been featured heavily in recent novels, I have no interest in going.

That’s because the places I want to see and the people I’d like to talk with would be off-limits or far too dangerous. I use Google, and Google Earth can put me down on any street in Moscow, just as if I’m walking it.

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RAINE: Why do you love to travel so much?

VAN LUSTBADER: I find that the further I go from the United States, the better perspective I get on my own country. Living here, you get a myopic idea of the world and the problems it faces. I am refreshed and renewed when I’m away, and because of that my mind is flooded with new ideas.

RAINE: Tell me how you came to write the Jason Bourne novels.

VAN LUSTBADER: Bob Ludlum and I shared agents. In those days, our agent threw periodic parties for his clients. In 1980, just after The Ninja was published, I was told that Bob wanted to meet me. As it turned out, he had read The Ninja and loved it, especially the hero Nicholas Linnear, who shared some key traits with Jason Bourne. A lot of Bob went into Bourne so he was thrilled to find out that a lot of me went into Nicholas. We sat the whole night talking about how to write thrillers, character arcs, and so forth. We remained friends until his untimely death in 2001. Shortly thereafter, the executor of his estate asked me to write the Bourne series, and I accepted.

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www.nkiruamerica.org