Catching Up With The Bowtie...

Sunday, May 15, 2011:

Hello, my friends!  My sincerest apologies for being gone for so long - things have been quite busy in the land of bowties.  I wanted to take a moment to catch you up on my life these past couple months and get us all back on track.  As you may know, I am a freelance publicist (in addition to my work at Agency Galatea) and I had the honor of promoting the Chicago Red Dress Party as the official publicist.  This great cause (and exciting event) went off without a hitch on April 16, 2011.  So many friends and supporters came out to 525 W. Monroe to enjoy a night of red dresses, drinks and dance floor shenanigans.  Was a blast!  

 PHOTOS BY AMIE PHOTOGRAPHY

While I was away from the blog, I also got a chance to check out the Zamrie fashion show, featuring the design work of my new friend, Ashley Zygmunt.  I had the chance to sit with Ashley for one of our Speaking of Fashion podcasts (along with fellow podcasters, Rachel Yeomans and Kari Skaflen) to learn more about her process and design aesthetic.  We quickly learned that Ashley is an absolute power-house, handling every step of the design process herself (with some help from her very supportive Mom.)  If you have a chance, catch a listen of our podcast, featuring Ashley of Zamrie, called "Guest Spotlight:  ZAMRIE"...

Looks from the Zamrie show:

PHOTOS BY JOHNNY PORSCHE PHOTOGRAPHY

Another highlight that I wanted to mention was a fashion exhibition put together by my good friend Miriam Cecilia Carlson, featuring her very own line, Miriam Cecilia.  My beautiful Agency Galatea runway women were featured in her show and the event was an absolute success.  Miriam showed looks from her newest collection that were absolutely stunning (loved the addition of fur accents.)  Always so inspiring to see Chicago designers paving the way for Chicago fashion...

Miriam Cecilia looks on Agency Galatea girls:

 

(L): Drew Dallas Deardorff, Ryan M. Beshel, Miriam Cecilia Carlson, 

Kimmy Wilson, Marco Foster & Tracey  Tarantino DiBuono

(R):  Kate Jacobsen (my amazing assistant) and Ryan M. Beshel

PHOTOS BY SEBASTIAN BIEDRON, Your Trendy Magazine

To continue on the catch-up, I wanted to share another exciting event that I had the honor of hosting (with so many other fine Chicagoans) for ART CHICAGO.  Just before I left for my cruise to Mexico (followed by an amazing weekend in West Hollywood), I helped to promote the after-party which took place on the rooftop on the EnV Luxury Apartments (followed by an after-after-party at Lumen.)  Factio Magazine sponsored and my good friends Melissa Maynard and Henrique Kerch organized the classy affair.  It was a perfect spring evening to enjoy drinks, music and good friends on a gorgeous rooftop, overlooking the stunning Chicago skyline.  (Not to mention, a rowdy night at Lumen - thank you, Corzo Tequila!)...

After an inspiring week on a cruise ship, followed by the perfect weekend in West Hollywood, it was time to come back to reality.  I was lucky enough to hit the ground running in Chicago and attend two fantastic restaurant openings upon my arrival.  The first was for Cantina no.46, where I reunited with my friends for some delicious food and killer tequila (to bring me back to Mexico for the night!)  The weather was perfect and the patio was packed with some of Chicago's finest.  With a margarita in hand, I was missing the trip I had just come from, but happy to be back in my city...

PHOTO (top) BY FRANCIS SON

After a few drinks at Cantina, I hopped a cab over to the opening of Porkchop.  Like the name suggests, this new spot offers a tempting array of delicious meats, seasoned and smoked in more ways than you can count.  My friend Dion Antic is the restaurant impresario behind this new opening and I was thrilled to be able to celebrate this momentous evening with him and our friends.  The interior of the space is gorgeous - mason jars hang above the bar with little light bulbs, faux forest murals spread around the front VIP booth and a wall of saws cuts through the space, dividing the kitchen from the dining area.  Absolutely a must-see (and must-taste) new spot in Chicago's West Loop!  (P.s. If you see Dion's dog, Sid, driving his car around - please let someone know)...

Well, my friends ... I think I have you all caught up.  Thank you for your patience as I keep busy and try my best to keep you informed!  I'll be on a more regular schedule now that vacation is over and the summer event season begins.  I look forward to the summer ahead and to hopefully running into you at one Chicago's best events...

Until then - Happy Spring!

Truly,

R.M.B.

The Chicago Launch of J.Cheikh's F/W 2012 Collection

(CLICK ON ANY PHOTO BELOW TO ENLARGE)

Thursday, January 20, 2011:

While working at the agency, I received an email - just before Christmas - from a woman named Sophie Lin.  The email certainly wasn't unusual, but what I didn't know at the time, was how the email would change my life.  Now, this sounds like quite a dramatic way to begin an event post - I realize this.  But, looking back, I'm so glad I responded to Sophie...

In the email, Sophie introduced herself to me as one of the individuals behind a line of menswear called J.Cheikh.  I immediately checked out the website (as I'm sure you did just now) and instantaneously fell in love with the collection.  The interesting cuts, rich/royal colors, the way the pants fell a bit short on the model - all made me swoon as I clicked through each look.  This was a collection after my own heart.  A line of menswear that (if given the chance) I would literally sleep in, only to wake up and slip into another J.Cheikh look the next day.

A series of looks from the J.Cheikh F/W 2010 Collection

MODEL:  Bev Moore | PHOTO:  Jeff DeLaCruz

As I corresponded with Sophie to book my runway models for her upcoming show, I began to grow fond of our conversations.  We went back and forth many times (which often happens with my clients) until she asked me one day to be on the hosting committee for her event:  The Chicago Launch of the F/W 2012 J.Cheikh Collection.  I quickly agreed (actually, I think I squealed like a girl right there in my office) and went to work inviting my top list of industry friends and contacts.  Before I knew it, I was corresponding with press about the show and RSVP-ing some truly amazing attendees to cover the event.  By accident, I became Co-PR Pro for the event!  (These things happen.)  I quickly hooked up with the wonderful Grace Lin (Sophie's sister and the real PR/Marketing Pro behind J.Cheikh) and we got to work on the guest list.  

Ryan M. Beshel (wearing J.Cheikh) and Grace Lin - aka:  BESHLIN PR

 

NOTE:  Photo taken by Early Cuyler

In preparation for the event, Sophie pitched to me an impromptu photo shoot with one of my Agency Galatea guys named Colin Ryan.  Once we knew Billy Rood (Fig Photo/Ender Films) was shooting the new F/W 2012 collection on Colin, he quickly agreed.  The shoot went stunningly well and Colin did an excellent job - giving his best in front of Billy Rood's camera that day.  A few days later, as we all stood in the J.Cheikh studio, we got a look at the images and were blown away.  (Behind-the-scenes photos and post to come!)

MODEL:  Colin Ryan from Agency Galatea | PHOTO: Billy Rood

As the day of the event quickly approached, the RSVP list was filling fast and needed to be cut off.  (Being 150 over capacity is a good indication that the list must close.)  We did just that and proceeded to prepare the press seating arrangements for the show.  The evening quickly approached and I started on my way to Loft on Lake to assist with last minute details and help get everything in order.  Upon arrival, I greeted my Galatea guys (Dominique Lark, Chris L., Benjamin Paulsen and Colin Ryan) and got the seating arrangements confirmed.  I spotted Kyler Powell of Kyler Powell Designs securing the final touches of the staging and the lighting - and before we knew it, the doors were open and the guests began to arrive.  The room filled quickly, photographers were crowding and everyone had taken their seats.  It was time for the show to begin.

(L): Marcus Riley introduces the show | (M): The crowd anxiously awaits

(R): Katarina Visnevska opens the show with a violin set

The host for the night, along with my friends, D.C. Crenshaw (Game Time Dine/Deals with D.C./Fete Select TV), Henrique Kerch (Factio Magazine) and Katarina Visnevska (Violinist - Lyric Opera of Chicago), was one of my favorite guys in town - Mr. Marcus Riley (NBC Universal).  He took a moment to introduce the brand before Katarina played an exciting violin set to the beats of tracks spun by DJ Galvan.  Once the sounds of her violin came to an end, the F/W 2012 J.Cheikh show began.  Before our eyes, we saw a collection of suits, woven shirts and slacks that looked as if they had been plucked from the set of Mad Men (or the streets of Vegas, circa 1950.)  Golden paisley brocade, deep blue velvet and slick black painted the collection as each step was taken toward the photographers.  Fox pelts hung carelessly over the shoulders of each model - almost hinting at a sexy, yet subtle cocky confidence of a man that would wear such a distinctive suit.  

J.Cheikh F/W 2012

Agency Galatea Runway Men:

(L to R): Dominique Lark, Chris L., Benjamin Paulsen and Colin Ryan

(L to R): Dominique Lark, Benjamin Paulsen and Colin Ryan

When all the looks had hit the runway and the finale walk had been taken, it was clear that we all had been a part of something special that night.  I was later asked by a friend from The Working Wardrobe for a quote about what I thought of the show, which I will share with you here:  "I would absolutely say that the show last night offered a breath of fresh air to the somewhat ignored arena of menswear in Chicago.  J.CheikhCheikh suit, I can confidently tell you that I walk taller when I'm wearing it.  For a man such as myself that stands six feet, four inches - it's quite a compliment to the designer.  This brand is my absolute favorite right now and I am thrilled to say that I have become fast friends with the entire J.Cheikh team.  They truly work with talent, passion and dedication as they remain focused on elevating the Chicago fashion community - a mission dear to my heart.  I can't wait to see what lies ahead for J.Cheikh!"  And that, my friends - is the truth.

Many thanks to Cheikh Lam and Sophie Lin - the husband and wife team behind J.Cheikh - as well as Grace Lin and Van Dang - for allowing me to be a part of something truly special - right here in Chicago.  Join me in wishing them the best for their showing at New York Fashion Week, coming up in just a few weeks!  I am so grateful to have made some great friends along this journey and I cannot wait to see what comes next from the passionate, talented team at J.Cheikh.  (I also can't wait to wear it.)

P.s. Did I mention it was life changing?

Truly,

R.M.B.

Sophie Lin and Cheikh Lam speak with Meghan Turner of Styleadmirer.com

 

The Finale - Ford Models

 

Ryan M Beshel and Nicole Townsend:

The Finale - Ford Models and Agency Galatea Runway Men

  

Cheikh Lam, Borris Powell and Ryan M. Beshel

 To receive updates on J.Cheikh and check out more photos from the runway event, please visit J.Cheikh on Facebook, 
by clicking HERE.

ALL EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY INCLUDED IN THIS POST WAS TAKEN BY:

Andrew Tse | figphoto.net

Bryan Whitely | figphoto.net

(unless otherwise noted)

Islands of the World Fashion Tour

Tuesday, August 10, 2010:

I woke up Tuesday morning already excited for the day ahead of me.  Not only was it my birthday (yes - I had to add that in here somewhere), but I was thrilled that I had been invited to one of my favorite types of events - a fashion show.  But this show was a bit more special than your average, with collections from featured designers from 'The Islands'.  Fittingly named, 'The Islands of the World Fashion Tour', this group of designers was set to pack the house at Loft on Lake for a runway show presented by none other than Factio Magazine.  

I arrived after work at the agency with my trusty event side-kick and best bud, Paige Peterson, and we quickly ran into Factio editor-in-chief, Melissa Maynard De Kerch and her charming husband (and Publisher/CEO/Founder of Factio), Henrique Kerch.  We chatted for a bit, grabbed a drink and had our picture taken by one of my favorite photographers, Steve Starr.  The night was hosted by a handful of my favorite people; including Corri Mcfadden (eDrop-Off), Candace Jordan (friend, socialite, blogger), Kristen Fredricksen Skordilis (Koros) and Trevian Kutti (G'bani) - among others.  After catching up with everyone, we took our seats and prepared for the show to begin.  

We were treated with gorgeous collections from four talented designers, starting with handbags by Harl Taylor BAGS from the Bahamas, followed by designs from Nadya of Bali, K-Bobby from Jamaica, and Eric Raisina from Madagascar.  We had an amazing view of the show and I was able to film each collection for you to enjoy as well.  (Consider it a 28th birthday gift from me to you.)  Now, I'm off to the Bahamas!  Well - maybe next year... 

Enjoy!

Truly,

R.M.B.

The runway is set:

The show begins...

Harl Taylor BAG - Bahamas:

A photo from 'Candid Candace':

Nadya - Bali:

Photo by James Gustin, Figphoto.net:

K-Bobby - Jamaica:

My friend, DJ Megan Taylor of Fig Deejay:

Eric Raisina - Madagascar:

Group shot!

Best Birthday, ever!

eDrop-Off Grand Opening Event

 Wednesday, July 21, 2010:

What do you do when last season's Chanel bag needs an update, but cash is a bit tight?  Before you open a lemonade stand and hope for the best, why not give eDrop-Off a try!  Last Wednesday, I was excited to attend the Grand Opening event for the new location of "Chicago’s premier independent eBay drop-off store", eDrop-Off, and mingle with some of my favorite people.  The interior of the new space, located at 2117 N. Halsted, is gorgeous.  Floor to ceiling windows and chic interior details made me feel like I was in a hip loft party.  Even the back work areas were beautiful (especially owner, Corri Mcfadden's amazing office that I want to work in every day).  I had received the invitation from friend and Factio Magazine editor-in-chief, Melissa Maynard De Kerch, and I was thrilled to see her when I arrived and catch up.  Many industry friends were in attendance, including the fabulous Jenny Berg (Bureau Chief, BizBash Media), my new friend Emily Hopp (PR/Special Events, Neiman Marcus), and the gorgeous Julie Selakovich (Director of Marketing, Saks Fifth Avenue) who I spotted across the room, but didn't get to say hello to.  (Hello, Julie!)  After exploring the space and taking full advantage of the photo booth with my date Paige Peterson, we were off with swag bags in hand.  Another great event, and a stunning new store.  But, don't take my word for it...  Clean out those closets, collect your designer duds, and head over to eDrop-Off and let the helpful (and really good looking) staff take care of you.  Just make sure you don't leave your lemonade stand unattended.

Truly,

R.M.B.

Melissa Maynard De Kerch, 

 Corri Mcfadden (the stunning owner of eDrop-Off) 

& Paige Peterson:

The back work room:

The photography room:

Corri's fabulous office (lucky girl!):

 Myself with Melissa Maynard De Kerch:

Ryan + Paige + Photo Booth = Great Success!:

eDrop-Off

New Location:

2117 N. Halsted 

Chicago, IL 60614

Pottery Barn Opening: Lincoln Park

Thursday, February 4, 2010:
A couple weeks back I received an exciting email from Melissa Maynard, the editor-in-chief of Factio Magazine, inviting me to join her for the upcoming Pottery Barn Opening. As a big fan of Factio, I was instantly flattered and immediately RSVP'ed for myself and a few friends. On the eve of the opening, I assembled a group of my best buds, picked out a bowtie, and began my travels over to the event. Upon entering the sprawling new 15,000 square-foot space, we were greeted with smiling attendants who took our coats and sent us off on our Pottery Barn adventure. Sounds of a live jazz band (see: Stitley) could be heard throughout the space as we passed tables of gorgeous food and grabbed a glass of white wine from the upbeat servers.
Before attending the event, I had made a mental list of people I wanted to see. First on my list, was my good friend and mentor, Susanna Negovan of Michigan Avenue Magazine. I spotted her immediately, standing out from the crowd in a beautiful red dress with that "editor-in-chief glow". She was speaking with the fabulous Grace Wahler, Michigan Avenue Magazine Account Executive and Grace's charming beau, Zack Napolitano. I quickly made my way over to say hello and fill them all in on life after interning. One down on my list--two to go.

Christina Mighty, R.M.B., Grace Wahler, & Zack Napolitano
(Photo from: ChicagoNow: Candid Candace...see the full story HERE!)

While speaking with Susanna and friends over sips of white wine, I spotted the lovely Candace Jordan (Speaker, Model, Blogger, Chicago Socialite), who was next on my list. She greeted me with a big hug and I posed with friends in a picture for her blog. As the night rolled on, I was having trouble locating the last (but so not least) name on my list, Melissa Maynard, who had invited me to the event. Candace quickly came to my rescue and we went on a Pottery Barn search to find her! After looking unsuccessfully, we gave up, which really gave me a chance to get a good look at the store. Around every corner was something more visually beautiful than the next. The size of the store is really quite unbelievable and the selection is just as amazing. Candles, bedding, silverware, mirrors, glassware, drapery--you name it--they have it!
As I was grabbing a few photos of the store details I was stopped by two fabulous women, Leigh Oshirak and Michaela Wilkinson, who asked if I was "the blogger guy" they had heard about. I figured the answer was "yes, I am" and I responded as such. They had said that they had heard so much about me and were delighted to have me join them at the event. I was floored with excitement (though still unaware of who they were) until the story came to light. They were the public relations masters for the Pottery Barn and had gotten word of my attendance from my missing link of the night, Melissa Maynard! We chatted for a few and I admitted to them that I was on a search to find Melissa, only to learn that she had left only 30 minutes ago. *insert foot stomp and "grrrr"* I had just missed her!

My 'search partner', Candace Jordan and myself:

I gathered my buds and we grabbed a final glass of wine while devouring the plates of deserts that kept walking past us full of soft caramel, salted chocolate truffles, and other ridiculously tasty treats. I walked over to set my glass down at the bar (which was clearly closing at this point), turned around, and just about screamed out loud (okay, so it's very likely that I did scream out loud). There, standing behind me, was the one and only, Melissa Maynard! (She had snuck away for a moment but returned to the party just in time.) Success! We chatted for a while about her work, the magazine, and our school (Melissa also attended the Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago and had actually created Factio Magazine with her husband, Henrique Kerch (CEO of Factio and also an ILIAC alum), as one of their final projects!) We grabbed a quick photo together and I joined my friends at the door, who were waiting with my coat and a "what were you doing?!" (I quickly told them I had finally found Melissa and they quickly understood.) We threw on our coats, thanked the same smiling faces at the door, and headed out into the cold Chicago evening. As I walked away from the Pottery Barn, I smiled to myself as I mentally crossed the last name off my list...

-R.M.B.

I found her! My new friend, Melissa Maynard and I:

Good friends: Candice Purnell (Mayor's Office of Special Events),
Paige Peterson (The HAUTE Spot),
& Maureen Refvem (Chicago Men's Style Examiner for Examiner.com)

Christina Mighty (Chicago Model, Stylist, and good friend...)Yours Truly!The fabulous Monica Dimperio (Founder/Editor-in-Chief of The Midwasteland),
Christina Mighty (Chicago Model/Stylist),
& Lisa Frame (Leo Burnett Account Executive)