Michigan Avenue Magazine: January/February 2010

Friday, January 1, 2010:
Hello to you all!
My apologies for being so out "of the loop" with my blogging. But I promise it's all for good reason, as I have been one busy guy! Soon, I'll be posting to tell you all exactly what I have been up to as of late. But, for now, I want to play a little "catch-up" concerning the most recent issue of Michigan Avenue Magazine.

Though I have completed my work as an editorial intern, my January/February 2010 byline has yet to be announced! (At least by "yours truly".) The current pages have now been flipping through Chicago hands for some time (January 1, 2010 to be exact), but I wanted to share my final outcome as an intern with you: my friends, family, and everyone in-between...

This particular assignment was given to me by the lovely Susanna Negovan, editor-in-chief of Michigan Ave. She had presented me with the opportunity to put together a four page bridal guide, which I titled, "The Guide to Bride!" This was such a great experience, as I got to brush up on some the top event planners, venues, photographers, designers, jewelers, caterers, and musicians that this fine city has to offer. Once all the information was collected and compiled, it was sent off for layout, photos, and printing. The result? Four handsome (or should I say, pretty?) pages with my name at the top!

I'll stop now talking (typing) and let your eyes do the rest of the work...
Sit back, click on the photos, and get ready to plan the best wedding that Chicago has to offer! (If you're engaged, that is.)

And just one more thing:
It is my honor to announce to you all that my amazing sister Shannon and her wonderful boyfriend Mike are officially engaged as of December 18, 2009 (the day of my Portfolio Show and my official last day of college!) How fitting that my last assignment at Michigan Avenue Magazine is indeed a bridal guide. I love you both. Many, many congratulations to you! (and to Mom--who is overjoyed with excitement;)

I'll be back in the swing of "The Bowtie Memoirs", so stay tuned for much, much more as this journey continues...

Madly, deeply, truly,

R.M.B.

Michigan Avenue Magazine: "The Guide to Bride!", Page 74 (below):

Michigan Avenue Magazine: "The Guide to Bride!", Page 75 (below):

Michigan Avenue Magazine: "The Guide to Bride!", Page 76 (below):

Michigan Avenue Magazine: "The Guide to Bride!", Page 77 (below):

Obsessions of the Bowtie: Volume 2

Photo: Douglas Friedman for The New York Times

A while back, I had become obsessed with an article in the New York Times called "Dress Codes: Dressing for Success, Again" by David Colman. (Well, the obsession has not gone away, and I wanted to share it with you.) The article discusses the shifting face of male fashion. Young men these days are "out-dressing" their elder counterparts more and more. The photo spread (which is my true obsession) features images captured by talented photographer, Douglas Friedman, (with typography by Jennifer Green.) The photos create such a sense of nostalgia to me. They speak to a time of the past when men put great thought and extra detail into dressing--every day. As a man who doesn't believe in "Casual Friday," I find myself inspired by this article (and I agree with the message completely.) I think young men are dressing a bit more dapper these days. Though, in a world of limited jobs and plenty of recent graduates (yours truly), it doesn't hurt to stand out from the crowd. Maybe even try, oh, I dunno...a bowtie?

Hoping you had a stellar holiday!

-R.M.B.

Not MY tree!

Photo: Douglas Friedman for The New York Times

Photo: Douglas Friedman for The New York Times

Photo: Douglas Friedman for The New York Times

Photo: Douglas Friedman for The New York Times

Photo: Douglas Friedman for The New York Times

Photo: Douglas Friedman for The New York Times

The December 2009 ILIA Portfolio Show

Friday, December 18, 2009:
After two and a half years of classes, plenty of nights without sleep and just enough energy to get through the day, the time had come for The December 2009 ILIA Portfolio Show! I had been working diligently all quarter to complete my work for the show. After many hours spent in a computer lab (and quite a bit of "change" spent on the materials) it was finally time to present my work to industry, friends and family.

The show began at noon and the Fall 2009 graduates anxiously waited at their respective tables for industry professionals to have a look at their work. Being one of those graduates, I was also poised and ready to share my experiences and knowledge with the pros that mingled my way. After three hours of talking with any interested parties, the room was open to the friends and family of the graduates. The first to arrive at my table was the lovely Darleen Saam, a friend of the family (and one of the Beshel's favorites.) It was nice to have a chance to catch up with Darleen before the rest of the family arrived.

Just after 3p.m., I began to nervously look around to catch a glimpse of any other Beshel's in the room (who, like me, are quite tall and easy to spot.) The first Beshel I saw was my Dad and I just about fell over when I saw him wearing a bowtie. (Side note: the last time I saw my Dad dressed up was, well, I'm not quite sure!) Following my Dad was my brother, my sisters, my step-Mom and my Grandparents--you guessed it: all wearing bowties! My Mom and my step-Dad showed up shortly after, and had also joined "the bowtie club." I couldn't believe that every person that came my way was sporting my most favorite neck accessory (and I must say, they all looked sharp.)

(L to R) Grandma & Grandpa Beshel, Dad, myself,
Sandy (step-Mom), Nicole, Eric and Shannon (siblings):


Before the show ended I had the chance to introduce my family to some of my favorite teachers and my good friend and mentor, Barbara Glass (who also showed up to meet the bunch.) Friends and fellow classmates came by to say hello and have a look at my work.

My good friend, the lovely Barbara Glass and myself:


It truly was an amazing day. I had completed a college degree and was surrounded by my family and most cherished friends. The support I have had over these past years has been priceless and having my family by my side was really all that I could have asked for to share the immense sense of accomplishment I felt that day.

Even now, as I sit and write this post, I am overwhelmed by all the love and support that so many of you have shown me. In return, I vow to keep moving forward with a sense of integrity and pride in everything I do. The lessons I have learned over the years will stay with me as I grow and the commitment I have made to myself to become everything I dream to be has only grown stronger.

The Graduate!:


I look to the future now with a sense of excitement and opportunity. I have found myself overcome with such an intense wave of freedom that I have never felt before. The possibilities are endless, the journey is unknown and I couldn't be more ready to move forward with my path in life. My college degree is my ticket to the success I will achieve and I'm ready to begin this journey into the future, one step at a time.

Thank you to everyone who showed up to support me Friday and a special thanks to my family for taking the time to join me on such a momentous day in my life.

I love you all...

Truly,

R.M.B., The Graduate.

(L to R): Don (step-Dad), Mom, Shannon,
myself, Eric, Nicole (siblings):

My table display at the Portfolio Show:

Myself and one of my favorite instructors (and
personal mentor), Ms. Williams:

All smiles at the Portfolio Show:

Grandpa & Grandma Beshel and myself (in bowties!):

Don, myself and one of my greatest supporters, Mom:

The Beshel bunch!:

The Holiday Issue

Tuesday, December 1, 2009:
Copies of the new Michigan Avenue Magazine began to show up in fine hotels and influential residences across Chicago and the suburbs. The issue profiles some of Chicago's "change agents" on the scene who are evolving the face of our city. Featured on the cover is an Oak Park native who rewrote the A-List with her name at the top: talented "D-Lister," Kathy Griffin.

I had the opportunity to transcribe the interview that my editor-in-chief (who wrote the fantastic piece) had with Kathy Griffin. It was such an experience listening to a recording of the two talking candidly and laughing together. Kathy Griffin is absolutely hilarious and I admire her strength as a person and a woman who says exactly what's on her mind.

I also wish to direct you to page 34, where you will find my byline in this month's December 2009/January 2010 issue. It was an amazing moment tearing open the plastic that protects the new issues and opening up the shiny cover to find my name. So grateful for my internship and all the wonderful people who have pushed me forward. Thanks again to each and every one of you!

Please--waste no more time! Go and get your copy of Michigan Avenue Magazine and see the city through the eyes of such a diverse and talented team...

The Michigan Avenue Team.

-R.M.B.

An Evening at J. Mendel

Tuesday, December 1, 2009:
Chicago's elite gathered for an intimate evening at J. Mendel, 919 N. Michigan Avenue. The holiday'ed sidewalks were lit on this surprisingly beautiful night on the first of December. Inside the high-end fur and ready-to-wear boutique, guests sipped cocktails and tried on the glorious garments for themselves. The "Wish List" event brought out the best in Chicago, including the host of the evening, editor in chief of Michigan Avenue Magazine, Susanna Negovan.

Nadia (Kopenhagan Fur), Susanna Negovan (Michigan Avenue Magazine), Maggie Rei (J. Mendel)


I had the honor of assisting talented photographer and friend, Jeff Schear, as he photographed the beautiful people and mingled among the guests. (Check out the December issue of Michigan Avenue Magazine to see the ad Jeff shot for The Red Head Piano Bar with "Red Head Revue" winner, Megan Parker aka: Deirdre Doll.)



Garments from the current collection were worn by Chicago models, Marguerite Keefe and Angela Carroll. (These two women were really the lucky ones--with fabulous outfit changes every few minutes displaying the current collection to the swooning attendees.) Laurie Davis, (owner of Lulu's) was in attendance, alongside other fine Chicagoans including Lynn McMahan, Trevian Kutti, and Whitney Lasky (get the scoop on these gorgeous and driven "Surreal Housewives" here.)

Models, Marguerite Keefe (L) and Angela Carroll (R):


When the event came to an end, guests strolled down Michigan Avenue carrying a swag bag fit for a Chicago queen. Inside was a purple heart of fur, made by Kopenhagen Fur, the company that supplies the fine goods for the J. Mendel designs. I left as the event was ending and took the long way home for a stroll down Michigan Avenue. As I passed over the bridge approaching Wacker Drive, the soothing sounds of a saxophone filled the air and a thought came to mind: "I love this city." Another great event with Michigan Avenue Magazine and another gorgeous night out in Chicago...

-R.M.B.

p.s. I support faux fur, as well as the luxurious offerings at J. Mendel! Try H&M or Zara (both on Michigan Ave.) for some great faux finds...

Lovely ladies, including one of my favorites, Lynn McMahan: (R)

The beautiful Angela Carroll (L) and Marguerite Keefe (R)

Maggie Rei from J. Mendel describes the "Wish List" event and thanks the guests for coming:

Myself and one of my favorite models, Marguerite Keefe:

Bird's eye view:

Laurie Davis (L) and Susanna Negovan (R):

Angela Carroll (L) and Marguerite Keefe (R):

30 Floors: UP

Wednesday, November 25, 2009:
The day began like any other at the Michigan Avenue Magazine office. I got in before anyone else arrived to share a "good morning" over the sounds of keyboards and phone calls. I love being the first one at the office. There's something enchanting about walking into a room untouched from the bustling day before. Almost immediately, the stories of the office come alive as I pass layouts to be edited, glossy stacks of current issues and computer screens with email inboxes full of waiting questions. Yes, it was a day like any other, but the conclusion would prove to be much different than the ones before...

It was my last day as an intern at Michigan Avenue Magazine.

As I sat at my desk answering the questions on my screen, the Michigan Avenue team began to arrive. It was the day before Thanksgiving, so it wasn't the full house I've become accustomed to. Editor-in-chief Susanna Negovan arrived and came over to chat with me about our time together. In just two and a half months I have learned so many things about the inner workings of a luxury magazine and many more lessons about myself along the way. Together we laughed and talked about some of the experiences and she shared her thoughts about my performance and my future career aspirations.

The Michigan Avenue Magazine lobby:


Though it was a calm day, there was still plenty to be done (magazines don't write themselves!) I worked with Susanna to complete a project for an upcoming issue, had lunch, took down my "inspiration wall" and it was almost time to go. As I sat at my desk, I recalled the experience that I have had over the course of my internship. In such a short time I have learned so much about myself and have met some of the smartest, most hard working, dedicated and influential people I have ever come across (and they're gorgeous to boot!)

Never a bad view from the conference room:


As I write this now, only an hour after arriving home from Thanksgiving dinner, I realize that I have so much to be thankful for. To the many people I have met along the way who have continued to support me on my journey, I thank you. To my family that has stuck by me when I didn't know who I was or where life was taking me, I thank you. To the many true friends that humble me and keep me laughing through it all, I thank you. To the people I have had the honor of working with at Michigan Avenue, while growing and learning more about myself and the city I love, I thank you.

As I sign off for now, I am left feeling nostalgic about the past, yet optimistic about the journey that begins after graduation. Happy Thanksgiving to all of you. My time at Michigan Avenue Magazine may be done for now, but there is so much more ahead.

Watch out "real" world.

Here I come.

-R.M.B.

Hey Designers! Get Creative.

"The Creative Lounge Chicago hosts the virtual conference Threading the Needle. Fashion Research Institute & Chicago Creative Lounge invites you to attend Threading the Needle: The Future of Fashion Design, the first virtual world-based fashion design conference in history.

Threading the Needle gathers eight fashion industry thought leaders to present their views on a range of topics designed to help a global audience of fashion businesses and fashion designers 'thread their needle' and launch their careers. And as anyone who has ever had hand sewn a hem knows, there is a trick to threading a needle.

Please join us on Thursday, December 3rd from 7 am - 4 pm at this free conference for designers, fashion design students, and fashion related businesses.

The Creative Lounge Chicago, located at the corner of Damen, Milwaukee & North Ave, will project the conference live at their 3rd floor loft. Skype will be set up for participants to interact and ask questions to the guest speakers live. Take part in this free opportunity, gain insight into the fashion industry and interact with successful leaders in the field and your peers. To read more about the conference: needlethreading.com

1564 N. Damen Ave, 3rd Floor

Please RSVP or direct questions to: chicagocreativelounge@gmail.com

Include the subject line: Threading the Needle"

-Source: needlethreading.com

-R.M.B.

Casey Gorham Photo Shoot: Behind-the-Scenes Preview

Sunday, November 15, 2009:
A few weeks ago, I was asked to help organize a photo shoot for friend and talented photographer, Casey Gorham. We met between classes and shifts at work (Casey is also a co-worker of mine) to discuss the project that she envisioned. She wanted me to assist her with a fashion photo shoot to broaden her body of work and sharpen her skills as an artist and a photographer. I quickly agreed and signed on as Assistant Stylist and Creative Director. Together we discussed the end product she desired, scheduled the time and I got to work finding models and garments.

It took only seconds for me to decide on the perfect talent and I immediately reached out to friends, Chelsey Carter and Christina Mighty. (Not only are these girls gorgeous, talented and intelligent--they also have style for DAYS.) Chelsey is a model and emerging fashion designer of her own line, Alex Carter. Christina is a Chicago model with an eye for styling. Both have attended the Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago as my fellow classmates. Needless to say, I was thrilled and eager to work with all these creative women on this project.

Standing-in, as Casey Gorham set the lighting and began test shots:


We went to work setting up the space for the shoot. Casey assembled and placed the lights and I hung the backdrop (which would later be cut out of the photos.) She wanted tight shots, so we were able to use a very small amount of space to achieve her look. The girls brought a stunning array of their personal garments--vintage pieces, original designs, hand-me-downs--plenty to choose from. Together we chose the clothes, make-up, accessories and shoes for each shot and the girls got to work.

The result is a series of fantastic images that Casey will use to produce an art installation and thesis project. Included here are just a few behind-the-scenes photographs from the shoot. Keep an eye out for the final images, posted here, as soon as I get my hands on them! A big thanks to Casey for allowing me the opportunity to help bring her vision to life, and a big thanks to Chelsey and Christina for their positive attitudes, hard work--and gorgeous closets.

Have a look!

The shoot begins:

Models: Christina Mighty (L) and
Chelsey Carter (lookin' smashing in my bowtie!) (R)
with photographer, Casey Gorham:

"Excuse me sir. I'm going to need you to stop right there.":

The "warm" (hot!) color-story:

R.M.B. checks the details:

Chelsey Carter (L) and Christina Mighty (R):

Ms. Mighty:

Jewel tones, anyone?:

Casey Gorham photographs Chelsey Carter:

A collar-ed Christina:

Fringe and sequins, what could be better?:

Christina takes a stance:

Chelsey in vintage fringe:


Remember to check back for the final photos..
As always, thanks for reading TBM!

-R.M.B.