Au revoir 2009 …Welcome 2010

Wow what a year it’s been!!!! The Noughties are over!!! Cannot believe it!!!

About a month ago I was saying to friends how quick the year’s gone by and how I can’t believe it’s nearly over. It’s only when I started thinking about everything that I’ve done this year and everything that’s happened that I thought twice about thinking the year flew by!!

Nicole Richie asked today… “The 60's, The 70's The 80's, The 90's... what will we be calling these past 10 years?” which got me thinking that’s true…did not even think about that one!

So I’ve achieved most of the things I really wanted to this year and am very proud of myself as it has not been easy, but I truly believe that when you work hard it really does pay off!!

One of my early highlights of the year has got to be my Greeting Card range being snapped up and stocked at the gorgeous Lifestyle Bazaar Boutique (www.lifestylebazaar.com) and the launch of the ‘A La Mode’ International Catwalk show.

I’ve met and built so many great friendships and directed numerous successful events. How I’ve found the time I don’t know :)

Some other highlights of the year for me in general have included:

- Moi Meeting Spike Lee the film director

- President Barack Obama’s inauguration

- Moi Meeting Emma Bunton (Baby Spice)

- Celebrating the 25^th Anniversary of London Fashion Week

- The Italian Black Vogue issue

- Grazia Magazine loving my fashion Greeting Card Range – www.lovegenevieve.co.uk

- Raising money for Charity and sponsoring a Charity Fashion Show

As well its highs the lows for 2009 were definitely:

- The deaf of Michael Jackson – Yes I was a true fan of his music and stayed up all night watching the news in disbelief.

- Jade Goody dying of Cancer – This was sooooo sad!!!

- Patrick Swayze’s death – I loved ‘Dirty Dancing’ and actually decided I was going to Marry Patrick Swayze after watching it –lol, You know how it’s like when you’re young – he,he

- Brittany Murphy’s sudden death – Loved her in Clueless!!

- The Tiger Woods Scandal

- My favourite childhood shop Woolworths closing down simply broke my heart :(

So right I’m gonna finish getting ready and head to a local bar in Islington for some drinks and celebrations with friends!!!

I wish you all lots of success and happiness for 2010 and hope you’ve all enjoyed reading my blog. There are lots to come for 2010 so watch this space!

Mwah!

Yolande xx

MORE PICS OF 2009...

Links:

www.twitter.com/yletshou

www.lovegenevieve.co.uk

IM BACK :) ...

Hi Guys,

Apologies for such a delay in posting a new blog!! So much has been happening and it’s been pretty hectic of late. Have so much to share with you about all the wonderful things to come!!

Gosh I’ve been up to so much I don’t know where to begin –lol

Well firstly La Geneve North Events ( www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk ) had a great Shoe Party at the Charing Cross Hotel. One of the main highlights was off course the Shoe Swap Zone!! The concept worked so well with ladies going crazy in the shoe swap zone area!! I tell you ladies and their shoes are something else.

LGN Events were delighted to be sponsored by Global Shoe Brand, ‘Hush Puppies’ who were promoting their Shoeperstar Competition.

Over £200 pounds was raised for the Step into My Shoes campaign, in the mini auction which was presented by the gorgeous Alex Kramer.

Click here to view the Gallery!!

NEW AFRICAN WOMAN MAGAZINE

I had the privilege of interviewing the outstanding Nigerian Designer label Momo who are doing amazing things right now. Her London Fashion Week debut received outstanding reviews!!! I interviewed her for New African Woman Magazine which is a fabulous contemporary magazine for women of colour. I mean seriously if you are looking for a quality, interesting read this magazine has it all.

The new issue is out now! For more information feel free to email moi at info@lovegenevieve.co.uk or visit http://www.africasia.com/newafricanwoman/index.php

WEDDING GALORE!!

So my childhood friend recently got married and with the way I was excited, you’d think I was getting married –lol . I am so obsessed with Maxi dresses at the moment it’s unbelievable. I am really trying hard not to purchase anymore…TRYING REALLY HARD –LOL

Below is a pic of me in the dress at the wedding

FRIENDS BIRTHDAYS!

This month has truly been one filled with birthdays I tell ya!! Below are a few snaps from the joyful moments at a couple of the birthdays I managed to squeeze in this month…

Above Pic: Moi and a friend. Here i'm wearing

Black Fitted Jacket: Oasis

Print Dress: Bought from a randam shop in Tottenham Court Road

Extra Long Feather Earring: ( This is currently my favourite accessory which i bought from one of the Untold Exhibitors at Clothes Show Live :)

Well guys it doesn’t stop there, still have loads to tell you so stay tuned :)

Bisous

Xx

HUSH PUPPIES announced as offical 'Shoe Spectacular' Event footwear Sponsor

Global Footwear Brand 'Hush Puppies' have been announced as the official Shoe Sponsor for the 'Shoe Spectacular' event hosted by La Geneve North Events. The event will be taking place at the Charing Cross Hotel on June 5 from 7.30pm.

Hush Puppies are the official shoe sponsors for the event and are currently running a nationwide competition (www.shoeperstar.co.uk) in search of the next hot footwear designer!. There's plenty to see and do, with a Shoe and Accessories Swap Zone, a Shoe Star Podium for those wonderful photo opportunities, a mini fashion show featuring Hush Puppies' footwear collection, live music, an exhibition area featuring exquisite shoe-based art work by Arnaud Gois and Ann Teahan, and a chill out area in place. And if your feet are struggling with your 6 inch heels by the end of a night full of dancing, we have ImmaQulate Beauty's (www.immaqulate.co.uk) beauticians onsite to give you a foot treatment and pedicure to reenergise. Unique one-off jewellery pieces by British designer Anita Watson-Jackson (www.contemporarycraft.co.uk) will also be on display for those crucial summer purchases

All guests will be greeted upon arrival with an exclusive goody bag. A selection of prizes will be available on the night including vouchers and free treatments. A charity auction will also take place to raise funds for the Step into My Shoes campaign (www.myshoes.org.uk ).

For more information or to purchase tickets etc visit www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk

E: info@lagenevenorth.co.uk

Links:

www.shoeperstar.co.uk
www.hushpuppies.co.uk

Hollywood Beauty Service at 'Shoe Spectacular'!

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ImmaQulate Beauty offer guests at 'Shoe Spectacular' a taster of their Hollywood Beauty services

ImmaQulate beauty will be offering guests a taster of their Hollywood beauty services at the ‘Shoe Spectacular’ event hosted by La Geneve North Events, taking place at the Charing Cross Hotel on 5 June. Their quality affordable beauty treatments are superb for those looking to unwind after a hectic week.

ImmaQulate Beauty, run by Zefney Gordon, uses only the finest product range such as Demarlogica, Jessica, A-Tan, Skin Doctors and similar reliable brands, which are excellent for all skin types and improve individual's skin condition and wellbeing.

The ‘Shoe Spectacular’ event is an evening of fun, socialising and shopping for fashion and beauty savvy individuals. The evening will include a charity auction, a mini fashion show, free goody bag for all guests, a shoe swapping zone ( bring up to 5 pairs of shoes or accessories to swap), shopping, live music, free taster and heavily discounted beauty services by ImmaQulate Beauty, exquisite shoe based artwork, lots of fantastic networking and more.

The charity auction will be raising money for the 'Step into my Shoes' charity campaign (www.myshoes.org.uk). Items up for grabs include exquisite pieces from British designers.

Guests will be able to experience a taster of ImmaQulate Beauty’s first class beauty services at the event and meet members of their professional team for top beauty tips and advice.

Guests attending the event include buyers, press, journalists, PRs and other fashion professionals and enthusiasts.

Tickets are limited and priced at £8.

For further information on ImmaQulate Beauty contact:

Lema Da Silva

E: lema@xquisiteco.com

W: www.immaqulate.co.uk

Visit www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk to buy tickets for ‘Shoe Spectacular’ or find out more about the event.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

About ImmaQulate Beauty:

ImmaQulate Beauty is managed by Zefney Gordon who for many years has been the driving force of many beauty houses. She has 8 years experience in beauty therapy with qualifications to compliment her skills. Having previously worked for Re-Aqua and other household names in the beauty industry, Ms Gordon provides high standard beauty treatments to all her clients- individuals who are serious about their beauty and wellbeing.

Other therapists include Kelly Warnock: a highly skilled beauty therapist from Australia with 4 years experience doing beauty treatments, who also displays that perfectionist spirit, both in her treatments and customer service.

www.lagenevenorthevents.co.uk

"Bringing you fun and chic fashion events and workshops"

- Don't miss our next event 'The Ultimate Shoe Party' June 5th

The Cosmopolitan Online Fashion Awards 2009

Last week I attended the Cosmopolitan online fashion awards which took place on 5^th March 2009 at the prestigious Roof Gardens in Kensington.

Judged by Fearne Cotton, Lisa Snowdon and Mark Heyes, together with Cosmopolitan’s readers and fashion experts, the awards celebrate the very best in online fashion retailing.

Representing every element of fashion, from the hottest partywear and sexiest heels, to the best online jeweller and online retailer of the year, the winners for 2009 were as follows:

Hottest Partywear – karenmillen.com

Best Workwear – next.co.uk

Sexiest Lingerie – lasenza .co.uk

Most Ethical E-tailer – marksandspencer.com

Sexiest Heels – newlook.co.uk

Best for Bags – riverisland.com

Best Online Jeweller – Accessorize at monsoon.co.uk

Best for Watches – hsamuel.co.uk

Loves Your Curves – evans.co.uk

To-Die-For Denim – asos.com

Sexiest Must-Flaunt Sportswear – nike.com

Best for Bargains – asos.com

Best for Designer – net-a-porter.com

Best for One-Stop Shopping – next.co.uk

Best Newcomer – boohoo.com

Best Celebrity Fashion Campaign Online - Dorothy Perkins and Gok Wan

Online Retailer of the Year – asos.com

Highly commended were also awarded to:

Sexiest Lingerie – Figleaves

To-Die-For Denim – Newlook.co.uk

“Nothing quite beats surfing for a new wardrobe from the comfort of your own home,” said Fearne Cotton. “The Cosmopolitan Online Fashion Awards provide the ultimate guide to the best fashion sites available. Being able to experience all the joys of shopping with no queues or crowds - complete heaven!”

Marketing director of Asos.com

Boohoo.com recieve best newcomer award

“Shopping online has never been easier and Cosmopolitan has made it even more accessible,” said Lisa Snowdon. “With increased time pressures combined with the sheer volume of fashion websites that cater for every shape and size, women can transform their wardrobe at the click of a mouse.”

I managed to have catch up with the Cosmo crew who were lovely. I then headed off home to prepare for the ‘A La Mode’ event the following day :)

Quick Notes:

The winners are featured in the April issue of Cosmopolitan (on sale 9^th March). Further details and footage of the event can also be viewed at www.cosmopolitan.co.uk

Cosmopolitan magazine, published by The National Magazine Company, has a circulation of 450,836. A magazine for Fun, Fearless, Females, it celebrates fun, glamour and a passion for life and inspires young women to be the best they can be.

Meeting Emma Bunton and trip down to Vanessa Blake’s new outlet…

Goodness gracious me, I am truly exhausted!!! I have had one of the longest days…in fact longest weeks and become a regular in Central London (lol). With the amount of meetings I have had this week I most def think I need a holiday VERY SOON !!

I woke up today at 6am (which is a regular for me except on a Sunday J) and tried to reply to as many emails as possible as these days I tend to be out for the whole day in one meeting or the other. Well I’m not complaining at the end of the day it is all positive business.

I was meant to quickly nip down to Piccadilly to get my nails down by Vanessa Blake ( www.vanessablake.co.uk ) but what was meant to be a quick trip became a half day trip as I started wondering all the shops and adoring all the new Kurt Geiger shoes.

At Vanessa Blake one of the make-up artist was giving a very happy customer a make-over. The end results were amazing !! and I don’t even want to get started on the eye shadow range as I am just simply in love with them.

Vanessa Blake make-up artist transforming a customer using their fantastic range

Also my greeting cards ( www.lovegenevieve.co.uk )are now stocked at Vanessa Blake so go check them out if you’re around the area!

So upon my stop I met Emma Bunton who was having a family day out with her partner JaDe and son ( who may I add is just absolutely adorable).

Jade ( Emma’s partner) took this lovely pic of us :)

Right I think I’m going to go to bed now as tomorrow is going be a long, long, day!!!

Goodnight my lovelies

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Melissa Leon: 5 mins with an emerging talented UK Jewellery designer!!

Hi guys,


I few months back I met a very talented jewellery designer called Melissa, so thought i'd introduce you guys to her as her works are AMAZING!!! I mean she is seriously talented and def one to watch out for.I recently interviewed her to get the low down on her jewellery range and what makes Melissa Leon Jewellery pieces a must have...Enjoy! :)

Above pic from right:Melissa's creative assistant, Melissa Leon, a model from my launch mini catwalk.


How did the idea of your business come abouts?

I attended a one-day jewellery making workshop last year – just for fun. Whilst at the workshop I noticed that I picked up the techniques that were being taught very easily. I also really enjoyed myself, so when I got home that evening I went online and order jewellery making tools and a bunch of beads etc. I started making jewellery for my friends and family and by word of mouth I began to get orders…I taught myself other jewellery making techniques and started attending exhibitions and events for inspiration…that’s how the business was born!





What is it that makes your pieces stand out?


I like to create pieces with unique beads or unlikely combinations of materials. For example, I travelled to Italy a few times last year and picked up some gorgeous Venetian glass beads – the kind that you are unlikely to see sold here in the UK. The pieces that I have made with those have been the most popular! I also have a new collection for S/S 09 called Candy Shop Couture - a combination of bright coloured glass, resin and crystal. This was inspired by a bracelet I created this past summer called Candy Cuff – it was extremely popular.
What also makes my jewellery stand out is that each piece or collection has its own story to tell. Customers love to read the inspirations behind my creations


When did you first start designing things and what was it that you designed?

To be honest, I have never been much of a designer. When I started making jewellery I would make pieces from pictures in my head!



What sorts of things inspire you when creating a new collection?


A lot of the time I get inspired by events happening around me, past experiences or the time of year that it is. For example, I am creating a collection for Black History Month along with an exhibition I will hold to display the achievements of young black people in Britain today.





What has been your biggest achievement to date?

With regards to the business, my biggest achievement would be launching my studio turned boutique. The launch was more successful than I anticipated and I also received some press coverage. Also, I was recently commissioned to create 500 pairs of earrings for a Sky Channel women’s event. I had 7 days to do it and my creative assistant was away so I had no help – but I did it!



What has been your biggest challenge?



I am mostly on my own in the business and there is always a lot to do. It is easy to get stressed out, but I have learned I must be more organised and manage my time better than I have been! As everything is hand made, it can get very hectic if there are a lot of orders in one go. There is pressure because I never want to let customers down, as I have a reputation to uphold.


What advice can you give to other aspiring designers?


Look for your niche and build on it! People are always looking for something different, so do research and get feedback. If you are regularly getting good feedback about a certain aspect of your work then stick with it and build on it.



Where can individuals purchase your collection pieces?

My jewellery is available to purchase online at http://www.melissaleon.co.uk/ and also from next month on http://www.bagsofsparkle.com/

Links:
http://www.melissaleon.co.uk/

Clicqisse Launch Party!!!

Today was the fantastic Clicqisse launch party in association with MOrava London, at the prestigious award winning London club CRYSTAL.

I went to backstage direct the show which consisted of a selection of some of the UK's top emerging designer.

Our host, celebrity presenter, Julian Bennet was a laugh as always. It was my 2nd time working with Julian and I must say it was an absolute pleasure once again.

The day went by so quickly as always. Heading the hair team was top Japanese stylist ,Shinya, who done a fantastic job managing the team and getting the hair looks to compliment the mood boards.

Below pic: Mood boards I compiled for the hair looks

Below pic: Hair and Make-up team in action!

I had to put my French to use as the lighting and music team only spoke a little English with French being their main language.

Opening the show was designer Kay Desmond, followed by Bao Ta. These two fantastic openings got the crowd immediately excited and rearing for more.

The Clicqisse models looked absolutely amazing. I mean they were not only extremely professional to work with but an absolute laugh too. They put in 110% into what they were doing making the show a great success.

The official shoe sponsor were Esska's shoes, which i am dying to get a pair off. seriously if you want quirky, edgy, quality, unique footwear, you will lovvvvvvvvveeeeeeeeeeeeee Esska's shows.

All guest got goody bags which were sponsored by Sincura and my fashion art label Love Genevieve ( www.lovegenevieve.co.uk )


After the show we partied the night away and headed home at 1am - WHAT A LONG DAYYYYYY

Bye for now,

xxxx

Links:

www.clicqisse.co.uk
www.lovegenevieve.co.uk
www.lagenevenorth.co.uk
www.sincura.com
www.moravanlondon.com

Kingly Court, Strada and Usher ...

Today was another beautiful and sunny day in good old England. I managed to sit in Kingly Court without going to Traffic People ( I honestly love that shop!!) I did however somehow end up in Marshmallow Mountain. If you are ever in the area its def work a quick pop in, they have some amazing unique pieces!!! I will try to post some pics of some of the great clothing and footwear I have bought from there.

After Kingly Court we headed down to Strada for a meal and I had the most amazing pasta!!!

I was exhausted after Strada so decided it was home time…then I remembered a few friends I haven’t seen were in the area. I met up with Albie and Daryl and a few others outside Paper Night Club.

My friend Albie is just so stylish! Check out his blog @ http://albieespinola.blogspot.com

They somehow twisted my arm and insisted I have a drink with them in paper before I head home, so I did and by the time I knew it Usher came into the club singing happy Birthday.

I so was not expecting it guys so my camera was not at hand. I managed to get the below shot but missed Usher. My friend got a load of great shots so I will post some of her ones when I get them.

Below pic: Damn just missed Usher in the shot

The girls have spotted him :)

Girls jus wanna have fun!!

Sanaa really getting into the groove…by the way she is an amazing architect ( www.j-jila.com )

Blue is my fave colour at the moment so I had to snap up this girl’s cute blue dress!!

Below pic: I have fallen for these mini chandeliers

Basically Usher got paid £500,000 to perform by businessman Andrew Williams. It was Andrew’s surprise and birthday present to his girlfriend Katie Teague.

Katie also had a cake at hand for her as Usher sang her Happy Birthday. This cake was like the biggest cake I have ever seen!!! It was incredible!!! Also amongst the celebrities were Pete Doherty.

Usher’s wife, Tameka, later joined them in the V.I.P section where they partied until 2am!!! By which time I was on my journey home falling asleep zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

La Dolce Vita Opening Night!!

Above pic: Sam and Amanda in Antonella Manoli

Today was the opening night with designers Antonella Manoli and Ralph and Russo showcasing their amazing creations!!! Seriously, Italian Fashion never disappoints, these two collections were outstanding!!!!

The evening was hosted by the Fashion expert on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy UK and Richard and Judy, Julian Bennett.

The lovely Samanda twins came down to strut the catwalk. Both Sam and Amanda were absolute sweethearts, they each wore an amazing gown by Antonella Manoli.

Celebrity presenter Hofit Golan wore two amazing gowns by Ralph and Russo which looked spectacular on her.

CLICQISSE models done a fantastic job strutting their stuff on the catwalk. Everybody absolutely loved and applauded to the amazing choreography by Daryl Rita (Director of CLICQISSE).

The hair looked sexy and chic thanks to Contrasti’s stylist Claudio who took charge of the hair team and done an absolutely amazing job!! The make-up looked striking. Satellite 3’s make-up team done a perfect job as always :)

Above pic: Contrasti's Claudio doing Hofit Golan's hair

My backstage assistants Lynsay, Julie, Lianca, Bharti, Lauretta, Cara and Aysen were soooooooooooooooo AMAZING, I had the best backstage team ever!!!

Above pic: Backstage Assistants: from left: Lianca, Lynsay and Lauretta

I came straight home after the show and straight to bed, despite the consistent persuasions of the team to go to Roof Gardens for the after party, I was like well “I only have like 5 Catwalk shows to do tomorrow” (lol)

Nite, Nite

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Misc Pics:

Above pic: From left: Designer Georgette Williams, Me (Wearing one of Antonella Manoli's amazing pieces), Amelie Lafond and Daryl Rita

Above pic: Julian and Hofit get hold of their copies of Nolcha metier magazine!!

Links:

www.ladolcevitaevent.co.uk

www.nolcha.com

www.clicqisse.co.uk

www.lagenevenorth.co.uk

http://www.contrasti.co.uk/

www.satellite3.com

www.antonellamanoli.it

www.ralphandrusso