Their handcrafted products were in the gift bag for the 69th Annual Golden Globes and stars loved the fanciful jewelry, items for home and bath, scents from around the world, imaginative paper items and more.

Stars with The Artisan Group's artistry!

Members of The Artisan Group showcase a broad spectrum of specialties, including handcrafted jewelry; spa and bath products; designer stationery and paper goods; crocheted apparel; children’s tutus, apparel and toys; ceramics; purses and totes; hand-poured candles; book binding and journals; illustrations and paintings; hand-dyed scarves; fine art photography; hair accessories; pet apparel and toys; and woodworking products. www.theartisangroup.org

We we so taken with their whimsical, beautifully-crafted items so much that we wanted to share these talented artists and designers and their creations with our readers.

Click on the links to view  ~

The Artisan Group Jewelry Designers Gift bag Items for the Golden Globe Awards

The Artisan Group – Artsy Designs and Items for the Home from the GBK Golden Globes Gifting Lounge

The Artisan Group’s Paper and Stationary Designers in the Golden Globes Gift Bags

Golden Globe Gift Lounge Bath and Body Items from The Artisan Group

Eric Stonestreet pictured with Piccolo Paradiso

Jennifer Love Hewitt pictured with Jewels For Hope

Rachel Crow pictured with The Write Stuff

Java Jane Designs

Andie Dietz, founder and owner of Java Jane Designs, does more than create personalized gifts. As her customers often remark, Andie’s artwork “captures the heart.” Her elegant creations feature stunning black and white letters of the alphabet photographed from architectural details artfully arranged to spell a name or word. Each custom keepsake is thoughtfully designed and meticulously handcrafted with the gift recipient in mind, making it the ultimate keepsake for commemorating special moments such as weddings, housewarmings, anniversaries, and baby showers. Andie developed her signature photography style through a love of travel and exploration. Her whimsical photographs evoke a sense of stillness and beauty, highlighting elements of forgotten architecture that are often rusty and weathered, but yet delicate and ornate. Andie’s elegant handcrafted custom artwork is shared with clients around the globe celebrating life’s biggest moments and has been featured in galleries and high-end gift boutiques throughout the US. You can visit her shop at www.JavaJaneDesigns.etsy.com.

Shara’s Paperie

Confections by Shara’s Paperie opened in 2008 after the success of our brick and mortar personalized gift, stationery and invitation store, Shara’s Paperie. Confections is a unique online gift shop that allows visitors to shop and add their own personal design touch to a wide range of products. Our product line includes personalized pillow cases, clipboards, magnetic dry erase boards, cell phone cases and much more. Be sure to check out our website www.shopconfections.com to find your favorite products and designs. The Confections line offers a look that is completely unique and appeals to a wide variety of clients by blending illustration with graphic design. The line’s exclusive designs and flexibility with customization make Confections by Shara’s Paperie stand out in the market of personalized gifts, stationery and invitations. When the Confections line was introduced to Memphis in September, 2008, they achieved nationwide reach with the summer 2009 launch of www.shopconfections.com. Notable projects include designing custom coasters for the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospital for Children Open in 2009, being featured in the Parents Magazine 2010 Holiday Gift Guide and the Women’s Day Magazine 2011 Kids’ Holiday Gift Guide as well as participating in a luxury gifting lounge for the Golden Globe and Oscars award ceremonies.

Taradara

Taradara is sewing company owned by Tara Rex {aka TRex}. This creative soul has brought ‘pretty’ to electronic accessories with her whimsical award winning covers. Taradara iPad covers have won ‘Best Product of the Year’ at the 2011 Moms in Business Unite Conference Inventor Showcase in Denver. Her iPhone covers are in the hands of celebrities who attended the Golden Globes. Taradara’s iPhone AND iPad covers are in the hands of the top Macworld journalists as well. Not only does she make covers, she makes wallets, passport covers, card holders, and much more at prices that will fit anyone’s budget. Taradara is an up and coming handmade business and an inspiring Mompreneur. You can visit her blog at taradaramadeit.com to learn more about TRex and see her amazing products. www.etsy.com/shop/taradara

On Your Feet

When Gary Hirsch was growing up he had a lot of nightmares. On these nights he would sit with his father in the kitchen and draw the monsters from his nightmares. They would stay up for hours and his Dad would help him name these creatures. One his father leaned over and said, “ You know, If  you can draw them, then you can also erase them.” So Gary would draw and erase and after a while the nightmares came a bit less frequently. These days Gary is obsessed with doodling robots…on dominos. These little guys are designed to interact with the viewer, to give you outrageous compliments (Joy Bot), tell you how much you are loved (Love Bot), Help you be brave (Brave Bot), etc.  It’s all about the story they tell the viewer, they help you have a conversation with yourself. Of course the Bots don’t actually talk, but something about them allows people to imagine that they do, and somehow this helps them feel better, and that is what makes them so much fun. Gary has shown his work in galleries, streets, and museums in Cleveland, Melbourne, Chicago, Seattle, and in his current home of Portland Oregon where you can see his large public works commissioned by the city. Gary has shown his work in galleries, streets, and museums in Cleveland, Melbourne, Chicago, Seattle, and in his current home of Portland Oregon where you can see his large public works commissioned by the city. When not painting Gary runs a 12 person creative consultancy On Your Feet (www.oyf.com) that uses improv theater and visual art to help some of the world’s most successful companies (Nike, Intel, Disney, and others) communicate and relate…all while having a ridiculously good time.

Helena Pion Photography and Design

37-year old Helena Pion was born and raised in Portugal, but life and love brought her to British Columbia, Canada. Having always worked as a translator, in 2009, she pursued her true passion and ventured into selling her creative photography work in an online US shoppe, and hasn’t looked back since. She quickly began designing as well, and everything is available on a variety of products you can easily personalise, if you so wish. From invitations to mobile cases, the customer can alter the templates for free simply with a couple of mouse clicks. Her shoppes showcase a myriad of textures, patterns, nature and macro photography on items that are useful as well as trendy. A truly ingenious idea for this photographer & designer’s work! www.zazzle.com/helenapion

Dave Dilli Photography

Dave Dilli has been photographing the beauty of the desert southwest for more than the past decade. His photographic style has evolved over time to what is now a vivid representation of the mood and essence of the scene as he felt it when the image was taken. From the softness of a delicate sunrise reflecting off the stillness of a lake, to the dramatic and visceral moods generated by a desert monsoon, Dave strives for the image to display the mood and emotions that he felt when the image was taken.

Dave has been a featured artist at the Raw Natural Artists Phoenix Showcase in 2011, and well as numerous other local art exhibits. Based in Phoenix Arizona, Dave Dilli Photography displays images from throughout California, Utah, Arizona and beyond. Visit him at www.Davedilli.com

Tina Dean Designs

Tina Dean Designs (“TDD”) is an upscale eco handbag company based outside of Washington, DC in Stafford, Virginia. Tina Allen specialize in upcycling/repurposing plastic bags and VHS tape into beautiful, useful accessories that are eco-friendly, easily cared for and fashionably fabulous. She is a mom-preneur and crochet artisan,and she meticulously handcrafts each item. She has been featured as a Small Business of the Day on Fox Small Business, on Fredericksburg.com, and on GoGreenAmericaTV.com. She recently, through The Artisan Group, gifted Cari Cucksey (of HGTV’s Cash & Cari) and was thrilled when Cari personally named the tote. You can see the Cash & Cari Tote here as an example of her work..

Seasons Of Wool

One of the items in the gift bags for the Golden Globe gift lounge was a pair of lightweight felted alpaca cuffs. The cuffs are knit from a lace-weight alpaca, then shrunk to size. Each pair of cuffs was then needle felted and embellished in one of 5 styles, all related in some way to the natural world. The cuffs are designed to be worn alone, or with gloves or mittens for added warmth. Felted wool and alpaca are hypoallergenic, odor resistant, thermal (keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer), water resistant and quite durable (comparable to leather).

In her shop, Lucy Chapman specialize in using natural fibers and repurposed materials to create usable felt works of art. You’ll find a wide range of products for the fashion conscious and outdoorsman alike. She offer hats, mittens, fingerless gloves, purses, totes, recycled sweater blankets, baskets, and more. she always welcome custom orders and loves to make a treasured piece that will last a lifetime. www.seasonsofwool.etsy.com

Jenny McCarthy and Carmen Electra talk about their show biz careers, ex’s and future plans at the Svedka Vodka Anti-Valentine’s Day Party. Jeremy Piven, Adrian Curry and others joined them at Agency in Hollywood iso their future ex’s.

To drink to your “Future Ex”

1 oz. SVEDKA Clementine
1oz. Elderflower Liqueur
1/2oz. Cranberry Juice
1.5oz. Sparkling Wine or Champagne

Preparation:
Mix all ingredients except Sparkling Wine in a pint glass and shake. Double strain. Add Sparkling Wine.

Glassware
Martini Glass or ice filled Rocks Glass or ice filled Collins Glass

“With so many beauties Judging is a especially difficult task but one that I always wanted to do since producing our first Beauty Pageant Gift Lounge for Miss Universe Pageant in Los Angeles in 2006 when I was asked by the Pageant to act as a Judge, I was thrilled,” said Mark Harris.

It was a weekend filled with plenty of sun, parties and beautiful women competing for the Crown and then onto competing in the upcoming Miss USA Pageant in Las Vegas and Miss Teen USA held at the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas.

The weekend events ended with the crowning of Miss Hoag Hospital Natalie Pack winning the Miss California USA Title and Miss Orange County Teen USA Alexa Jones winning the Miss Teen Title.

Judges were treated to first class treatments at the Rancho Las Palmas Resort, spa treatments, unlimited celebrations and gourmet meals at many of the desert’s finest joints.

This was the third year that WOW Creations provided Gift Bags.

Below is a list of the brands included in the pageant gift bags:

Flop Topz – floptopz.com
Diva Cup – divacup.com
Live Smart 360 – livesmart360.com
Tanning provided by Tropical Tanning – tropicaltanninganddayspa.com
Supple Skin Boutique – suppleskinboutique.com
Saint James Cosmetics – saintjamescosmetics.com
Don Francis Coffee – donfranciscocoffee.com
Indie Exhibit – indieexhibit.org
Dark Dog Energy Drink
Justins Organic Peanut Butter cups
Tea Tulia – teatulia.com
Udder Crème – uddercreme.com
Maui Tropical Soaps – mauitropicalsoaps.com
Noah’s Water – noahswater.com

www.wowcreationsmedia.com

We know what you might be thinking. What exactly do all these individuals have in common?  They all share a passion for the preservation of Hollywood History.

A few of the artists on hand for the event took the 75-minute guide-led journey of Hollywood Behind-the-Scenes, revealing the story of Hollywood from its Golden Age to present day.  The tour is the only walking tour in Los Angeles and the only tour that uses a live state of the art adjustable audio system (by Williams Sound) that allows all patrons to hear the guide up to 300 feet, regardless of the surrounding noise.

“I was amazed at the clarity.  Despite the street noises, not to mention a rather boisterous group of demonstrators, I could hear every word the guide said on the tour,” remarked Romi Dames of “Hanna Montana.”

George Chakiris of West Side Story and Tony Hoover

While visiting Grauman’s Chinese Theatre the group took a slight side trip took to visit the nearby star of Ms. Kate Linder of “The Young & the Restless,” who had joined the tour. Practically born into the industry as Tabitha Stevens on “Bewitched” Erin Murphy commented, “I think that older patrons of the tour will find themselves either reliving great memories while the younger ones will be learning about an industry that has defined the last century. Those of us who are connected to the industry, walk away with a sense of pride in being part of it.”

The 2012-edition 3 ticket series of Red Line Tours entitled “The Icons of Hollywood” highlights three historically important structures representing music, stage and the silver screen – the Capitol Records building, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Bowl.  The tickets are good for admission to Hollywood Behind-the-Scenes and are anticipated to be a high quality collectible memento.

Stan Livingston, Barbara Van Orden, Dee Wallace, Sherrye Woodley, Rip Taylor, Barry Livingston, Judy Norton, Andre Miripolsky, Rose Marie, Mary McDonough, Michael Learned, Romi Dames, George Chakiris, Ruta Lee, Kate Linder, Don Most, Erin Murphy, Ilene Graff and Tony Hoover.

Special guests that attended the event included: George Chakiris, Romi Dames, Ilene Graff, Tippi Hedren, Kate Linder, Barry Livingston, Stan Livingston, Michael Learned, Ruta Lee, Rose Marie, Mary McDonough, Don Most, Erin Murphy, Judy Norton, Hugh O’Brian, Rip Taylor, Dee Wallace and Barbara Van Orden among others.

Red Line Tours Hollywood Behind the Scenes is undisputedly one of Hollywood’s most popular and enduring attractions and has become part of Hollywood’s modern history. Actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt used Red Line Tours Downtown LA tour to help prepare for his role in “500 Days of Summer,” and Clare Danes toured with founder Tony Hoover as part of a piece on her early days in theatre.

The Red Line Tour guides dispel myths and often reveal unknown behind the scenes stories, classic movie palaces, history of the Hollywood Sign, Walk of Fame lore… and Hollywood’s hidden hideaways of the Stars, while taking patrons inside venues generally restricted to the public. Even many native Angelinos may learn new tidbits about their own city such as:

Red line Tour Collectible Tickets

*  At which Theatre for which film was the first gala movie premiere?
-Robin Hood, 1922 at the Egyptian Theatre

*  Which Star on the walk of fame is the most sought after by tourists?
-Marilyn Monroe

*  Who saved the Hollywood Sign from destruction?
-Alice Cooper and Hugh M. Hefner

*  Who was the first female actress to demand $1 million for a film?
-Elizabeth Taylor for “Cleopatra” (An offer she made, and expecting to be declined, for a film she hadn’t wished to do at the time.)

*  Where was the first Academy Awards Held?
-The Roosevelt Hotel and they lasted 20 minutes.

Red Line Tours Founder, Tony Hoover, received a BFA from Ball State University and worked for the industry famous trade, The Hollywood Reporter, before putting his degree in and a passion for architecture to use in creating the Red Line Tours.

The Waltons meet My Three Sons: Judy Norton, Barry Livingston, Michael Learned, Stan Livingston and Mary McDonough

The artwork used for the collectible tickets are creations of Andre Miripolsky, who was on hand to sign the first editions on Thursday. His keen understanding of pop imagery and energy has resulted in collaborations with Elton John, Bette Midler, Quincy Jones, Rolling Stones, Gato Barbieri, Robin Williams, Beastie Boys, Cheap Trick, MTV and “The Tonight Show” with Jay Leno. An “Absolut Artist of the ’90s,” Miripolsky created his inaugural Absolut Vodka ad in 1991 and Mattel asked Miripolsky if he would lend his unique approach in creating a one-of-a-kind soon to be released “Art Barbie.” His commitment and participation in timely social and political causes is reflected in his artistic vision. He has collaborated with the United Nations Artist and Performers Against Apartheid Symposium, was commissioned by the Director’s Guild of America to create a new look for “The Artist’s Rights Foundation” (founded by Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, and Martin Scorsese), and he designed a limited-edition poster to raise funds for inner city youth of Chicago. Along the same lines, he has been working for several years with Pro-Peace, AIDS Project Los Angeles, and Artists for Disarmament.

Dee Wallace, Kate Linder, Andre Miripolsky, Erin Murphy and Romi Dames

Currently, negotiations are underway with the top theatre representatives in New York for a similar walking tour of Broadway’s most famous theatres.

For information about the tickets and tours, go to Red Line Tours.

Photos by Bill Dow

GBK dazzled the 69th Annual Golden Globe nominees and presenters once again before the big night with their always-luxurious Gift Lounge for the Golden Globes, held at the beautiful L’Ermatage Hotel in Beverly Hills. GBK, the recipient of multiple BizBash Awards for “Best Gift Bag,” presented to its private list of invited celebrities, VIPs, and media the opportunity to enjoy an elite environment with gifts, beauty services and hors’ d’oeuvres while tending to its charitable causes.

Janina Gavankar “True Blood,” Joe Mantegna “Criminal Minds”, Lauren Bowles “True Blood” Mayim Bialik “The Big Bang Theory”

GBK’s 2012 Golden Globes Lounge celebrity guests included nominees, presenters and guests such as  Callie Thorne “Necessary Roughness” (Best performance by an Actress in a TV series – Drama) Damian Lewis “Homeland” (Best performance by an Actor in a TV series – Drama). Ben Schwartz “Parks and Recreation” Betsy Brandt “Breaking Bad”, Janina Gavankar “True Blood,” Joe Mantegna “Criminal Minds”, Lauren Bowles “True Blood” Mayim Bialik “The Big Bang Theory” and many more…

Callie Thorne “Necessary Roughness” (Best performance by an Actress in a TV series - Drama) Damian Lewis “Homeland” (Best performance by an Actor in a TV series - Drama). Ben Schwartz “Parks and Recreation” Betsy Brandt “Breaking Bad”

“This season’s GBK Gift Lounge is filled with premium sponsors, supporting celebrities and a wealth of media which will once again support “good will“ while enjoying a true Hollywood experience. “GBK will be making a donation to Clinton Global Initiative for this event and a local education fund in FIJI,” says Gavin Keilly, CEO of GBK Productions.

Click here to view the embedded video.

GBK’s sponsors include a wide range of creative, luxurious and select companies who will share their products and accomplishments with industry taste makers and celebrities while giving back to a greater causes such as poverty and education.
Sponsors include:

Air Pacific  gifted a round trip ticket for two for all Nominees and Presenters to FIJI. They will be staying at one of the exclusive 5 Star Island Resorts, including: Yasawa Island Resort and Spa, Vomo Fiji Island Resort, or Tadrai Fiji Island Resort.

5Star Responder, by greatcall  is a first-of-its-kind wireless, portable device that is an easy, convenient, and affordable way to better protect yourself or those closest to you, at home or on the go. By simply pressing the button on the Responder, users are immediately connected to highly-trained Certified Response Agents who will identify them and their location, conference in family or friends, dispatch 9-1-1 emergency services, access a nurse, or provide any additional assistance, if needed.

The Artisan Group is an exclusive close-knit community of talented artisans, who showcase a broad spectrum of specialties, including handcrafted jewelry; spa and bath products; designer stationery and paper goods; crocheted apparel; children’s tutus, apparel and toys; ceramics; purses and totes; hand-poured candles; book binding and journals; illustrations and paintings; hand-dyed scarves; fine art photography; hair accessories; pet apparel and toys; and woodworking products. They collectively provide lovely samplings of their beautifully handcrafted products to celebrities and members of the press at major award show luxury Gift Lounges leading up to The Academy Awards*, The Golden Globes*, and The Primetime Emmys* All handcrafted jewelry, stationery, photography, art and other products. These are true artists that use their talent to bring magic to your everyday.

The Fresh Diet  Created by a Le Cordon Bleu Institute-trained chef, The Fresh Diet is fresh, gourmet meals and snacks delivered to you daily! They make watching your weight or losing weight effortless. Anl the time and money you save shopping and cooking is worth it. Try it yourself. No cooking, no prep, no dishes! That, is priceless in and of itself. The Fresh Diet gifted celebrities  free trials of premium healthy at-home meal delivery service, and they are all thrilled to try it.

GBK's Gavin Keilly and "Modern Family's Eric Stonestreet

Glymed Plus® Advanced Aesthetics gifted The GlyMed Plus FOR MEN Essentials Travel Kit & DNA Reset Face & Neck Cream, among others of her amazing line. For over 20 years, GlyMed Plus® has been a renowned leader in the skin care industry. Christine Heathman, Master Aesthetician, CEO and Founder of GlyMed Plus and the GlyMed Plus Institute of Skin Science™ has been practicing clinical esthetics for over 25 years and offers a complete range of Professional Only products, combining technologically advanced ingredients with certified organic botanicals to produce amazing results.

RevitaLash ADVANCED Newly formulated RevitaLash ADVANCED; eyelash conditioner that lengthens and thickens eyelashes. Introducing a new hair product; Hair by RevitaLash a conditioner that gives you thicker and fuller hair. Also RevitaLash Mascara and Perfect Primer that helps mascara adhere better to eyelashes and enhances eye color. RevitaLash works!

Click here to view the embedded video.

Centerville Pie Co.  A Centerville Pie Company signature Chicken Pie made with over a pound of chicken meat, covered in savory gravy & wrapped in a hand-rolled flaky crust. Centerville Pie Co. is a charitable organization that supplies jobs to women who are disabled.

Crizal® See Better, Look Better, Feel Better: Crizal No-Glare lenses are the market leader of No-Glare (Anti-Reflective) ophthalmic lenses. Celebrities received No-Glare Lenses Designer Sunglasses with Crizal SunShield™ No-Glare Lenses. Brands include Fendi, Prada, and Burberry.

Q Handmade   Custom gold and silver jewelry specializing in hand-stamped necklaces from jewelry designer and singer/songwriter Christine McCrudden. Click here to see her video  from the gift lounge.

Bread Basket Cake Company  served celebrities Chocolate fudge and French vanilla cream-filled dessert topped with a raspberry. The Bread Basket uses only the finest culinary products available, including fresh berries from local farms, pure Belgian chocolate, authentic French whipped cream, and top-shelf liquors. The created the beautiful Golden Globes-inspired cake which was on display in the center of the suite.

Gavin Keilly with Shallene Woodley

Ajinomoto North America, Inc. Glysom™  is a safe, effective, scientifically-proven and physician-distributed dietary supplement for deeper, sounder and more satisfying sleep without morning drowsiness that leaves you fully refreshed for the day ahead.

Cocopotamus Chocolate  Handmade Cocopotamus dark chocolate fudge truffles in different delicious flavors.

DNA Imprints   – A canvas print transformed from a celebrities DNA and married to stunning colors. Anyone can go to their website and find out how they can submit their DNA to turn it into art!

G Wear  Eclectic, hand-sewn, one of a kind woman’s tee shirts and scarves with design appliqués made from recycled tee shirt materials. Great fabrics, comfort and great designs!

Voskos Greek Yogurt – Award winning Greek yogurt presenting YoGreek which is a mix of delicious Voskos Greek yogurt & crunch!

TC Intimates upidintimates.com   Today’s shape wear for today’s activities, work, play or an evening out. Shaping that leaves you looking sleek, smooth and comfortable. Great brand.

Haan Therapeutics Latest innovation in Anti-Aging skin care: Romi Beauty gifted their new digital makeup product, and the results you get from this is simply incredibly flawless looking skin. With their Digital Foundation, an electronic foundation application system that mimics the stippling technique used by makeup artists to blend makeup into the skin but at a rate of 5,000 times per minute, it applies the foundation ampoule contains a primer, concealer, foundation and powder. Brilliant!

Glysom This year’s Golden Globes received the gift of sleep quality. Glysom™, the latest breakthrough in amino acid and sleep research and the first Japanese nutraceutical product to be showcased at the GBK Luxury Gift Lounge, in Beverly Hills, CA this past weekend. Allowing Hollywood’s dream makers to take full advantage of their precious hours of rest each night, Glysom™ attracted nominees and presenters such as Elizabeth McGovern (Downton Abbey), Dot-Marie Jones (Glee), Chris McDonald (Harry’s Law), Shanola Hampton (Shameless) and Kristi Lauren (I Hate My Teenage Daughter).

Actress Morena Baccarin and Gavin Keilly

The Comphy Co.  The chosen favorite for micro-fiber bedding; by leading resorts, spas and celebrities nationwide. Especially important is that their sheets and pillow cases are dust-mite resistant!

Exclusive Sedan Service   Gifted a gift certificate worth $100 for chauffeured luxury ground transportation which can be used anywhere in the LA metro area.

Bota Box are premium, award winning wines in 3L box and 500ml tetra pack, convenient, portable and environmentally friendly packages.

Robert Graham  Presenting X Collection by Robert Graham, the newest men’s sportswear line by Robert Graham.

Macadamia Natural Oil   Stylish canteen shoulder bag containing Healing Oil Treatment, Deep Repair Masque, Rejuvenating Shampoo and Oil infused comb, all you need to quench your hair needs. You’ll find you get beautiful results, almost as if with this product, you’ve found the missing link!

Mojo Boost International Gentech Pharmaceutical  Mojo Boost & Mojo Chill – Gives you the energy you need to sustain, and the relaxation you need when it’s time to unwind. PhenTabz were gifted as well -  highly effective weight loss pills without the prescription =  fast, effective, safe weight loss.

NVEY ECO  A collection of high performance, long lasting pure organic makeup from Australia, formulated without the use of chemical ingredients such as petrochemicals or synthetic fragrances.

Hayari Parfums   First French Fragrance Floral Oriental for women by Hayari. The Hayari Couture collections of evening wear and wedding apparel created by designer Nabil Hayari are direct from Paris seen at the GBK Gifting Lounge for the 69th annual Golden Globes for the first time.  The gowns, each a “one-of-a-kind” piece handmade in the Paris Atelier were shown to guests like Callie Thorn, Elizabeth McGovern, Mirelle Enos, Cheryl Burke, Candace Cameron Bure, Cynthia, Lana Parnilla (who loved the black display gown) Sasha Piertse, Karina Smirnoff, Addai-Robinson, Erica Durance, Janine Gavankar and Jennifer Love-Hewitt, just to name a few.

Sandra Brooks Collection  Handcrafted one-of-a-kind gemstone and pearl jewelry for men and women, creating juxtapositions of organic elements and glitz, modern and traditional, casual and formal elegance.

Sparkling ICE  Naturally flavored sparkling mountain spring water, zero calories with essential vitamins and antioxidants.

Earths Berries   An environmentally friendly, organic cleaner that helps keep your whole home clean and safe.

eos Products  Highly moisturizing, delightfully packaged skin care products, including lip balms, hand lotions, body lotions, and shaving cream.

Tweezerman  Preview of the new Fashion Color Slant Tweezer – in Geranium (launching in May) and their beloved ProCurl Curler.

VIE® Magazine sets itself apart as a high-gloss publication focusing on human interest stories and celebrating the “people and places.”

Beyond The Rack is North America’s premier online shopping club, offering men and women top designer brand clothing, accessories, beauty, home décor and consumer electronics up to 70% off retail. Gifting clothing for men and women by some of Beyond the Rack’s great brands including Dex, Coupe, Triple 5 Soul, and My Tribe.

Adult Chocolate Milk is a premium, pour-and-serve vodka-based cocktail with a unique taste and retro-chic appeal that was launched in 2009 by busy moms and lifelong friends Tracy Reinhardt and Nikki Halbur.

AquaHydrate Purified and refreshing, AquaHydrate is uniquely fortified and engineered to replenish the body differently than traditional bottled water. Raised to an alkaline pH of 9+, and then fortified with electrolytes and minerals it is the water for people who know and can appreciate the difference. Gifted gift certificates for 1 year supply of their water.

GBK, formerly GBK Productions, is a luxury lifestyle gifting and special events company, specializing in entertainment marketing integration. Formed in 2000 by Gavin Keilly, the company’s Founder and CEO, GBK consists of five divisions: GBK Celebrity Gifting, GBK Special Events, GBK Weddings, GBK Charitable Consulting and GBK Marketing/Public Relations. Widely known in the entertainment industry for bringing that little extra something into the Gifting Lounge environment, GBK offers its clients a full range of marketing services.

Click here to view the embedded video.

For more information on Gavin B. Keilly (CEO), Carla Domen (VP) or GBK, please go to: www.GBKProductions.com.

Celebrities who attended the GBK gift lounge included:

    •    Ali Fedotowski “The Bachelorette,” “The Bachelor"

    •    Alicia Witt  "Friday Night Lights"

    •    Amanda Righetti  “The Mentalist” (Grace Van Pelt) 

    •    Angus T. Jones  “Two and a Half Men”

    •    Anthony Anderson  “Scream 4” (Dept. Perkins)

    •    Bailee Madison  “Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark” (Sally), “Just Go with It”

    •    Barrett Foa  “NCIS: Los Angeles” (Eric Beal)

    •    Beau Willimon  “The Ides of March” (Best Screenplay - Motion Picture)

    •    Ben Schwartz   “Parks and Recreation” (Jean-Ralphio)

    •    Beth Riesgraf  “Leverage” (Parker)

    •    Betsy Brandt   “Breaking Bad” (Marie Schrader)

    •    BooBoo Stewart  “Twilight” movie series (Seth)

    •    Callie Thorne   “Necessary Roughness” (Best performance by an Actress in a TV series - Drama)

    •    Camille Grammar   "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills"

    •    Candace Cameron Bure   “Make It or Break It” (Summer Van Horne)

    •    Carly Craig   “Hall Pass” “Role Models” (Connie)

    •    Cheryl Burke   “Dancing with the Stars” (professional dancer)

    •    Chris McDonald   “Harry’s Law” (Tommy Jefferson)

    •    Chris Noth   "Sex and the City" "The Good Wife"

    •    Christopher Heyerdahl   “Twilight” movie series

    •    Connor Paolo   "Revenge" (Declan Porter)

    •    Cynthia Addai Robinson   “Spartacus: Vengeance” (Naevia), “Colombiana”

    •    Damian Lewis  “Homeland” (Best performance by an Actor in a TV series - Drama)

    •    Damian McGinty   “Glee” (show nominated for Best TV series - Comedy or Musical)

    •    David Banner   “Stomp the Yard 2: Homecoming”

    •    Dot-Marie Jones   “Glee” (show nominated for Best TV series - Comedy or Musical) 

    •    Eden Sher   “The Middle” (Sue Heck)

    •    Elizabeth McGovern  “Downton Abbey” (Best performance by anActress in a Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for TV)

    •    Eric Stonestreet   “Modern Family” (Best performance by an Actor in a supporting role in a Series, Mini-Series or Motion Picture made for TV)

    •    Erica Durance   “Smallville” (Lois Lane)

    •    Gabriel Mann   "Revenge" (Nolan)

    •    Garrett Backstrom   “The Motel Life” (Jerry Lee)

    •    Helen McCrory   “Hugo” (Film nominated for Best Motion Picture-Drama)

    •    Hill Harper   “CSI: NY” (Dr. Sheldon Hawkes)

    •    India De Beaufort   “Jane by Design” (India)

    •    Iqbal Theba   “Glee” (show nominated for Best TV series - Comedy or Musical) (Principal Figgins)

    •    Janina Gavankar  “True Blood,” (Luna Garza)

    •    Jason Isaacs   “Abduction,” (Kevin), “Harry Potter” movie series

    •    Jason Olive   Tyler Perry’s “For Better Or Worse (Joseph)

    •    Jennifer Love Hewitt   “The Client List,” "Ghost Whisperer"

    •    Jennifer Carpenter   "Dexter"

    •    Jeremy Irons   “The Borgias” (Best performance by An Actor in a TV series - Drama)

    •    Jessica Parker Kennedy   “The Secret Circle” (Melissa Glaser)

    •    Jim Rash   “The Descendants” (Best Screenplay - Motion Picture)

    •    Joe Mantegna   “Criminal Minds” (David Rossi)

    •    Josh Sussman   “Glee” (show nominated for Best TV series - Comedy or Musical) (Jacob Ben Israel)

    •    Julie Benz   “A Gifted Man” (Christina), "No Ordinary Family”

    •    Karina Smirnoff  “Dancing with the Stars” (professional dancer)

    •    Kathryn Joosten   “Desperate Housewives”

    •    Katie Leclerc   ABC’s “Switched at Birth” (Daphne Vasquez)

    •    Kristi Lauren   “I Hate My Teenage Daughter” (Sophie)

    •    Lana Parrilla   “Once Upon a Time” (Evil Queen)

    •    Lauren Bowles   “True Blood” (Holly)

    •    Leslie David Baker   "The Office"

    •    Mark Feuerstein   "Royal Pains"

    •    Mayim Bialik   “The Big Bang Theory” (Amy Farrah Fowler)

    •    Melissa Rauch   “The Big Bang Theory”  (Bernadette)

    •    Mireille Enos   “The Killing” (Best performance by an Actress in a TV series - Drama)

    •    Morena Baccarin  “Homeland” (show nominated for Best TV series - Drama)

    •    Nat Faxon   “The Descendants” (Best Screenplay - Motion Picture)

    •    Natasha Henstridge  "The Secret Circle"

    •    Nick Wechsler  “Revenge” (Jack Porter)

    •    Pat O’Brien  “Fox Sports Radio” (host)

    •    Rachael Crow  "X-Factor"

    •    Raphael Sbarge  “Once Upon a Time” (Jiminy Cricket)

    •    Reno Wilson  “Mike and Molly” (Officer Carl McMillan)

    •     Reshma Shetty   “Royal Pains” (Divya Katdare)

    •    Rex Lee   “Suburgatory” (Mr. Wolfe), “Entourage” (Lloyd Lee)

    •    Rico Rodriguez    “Modern Family” (show nominated for Best TV series - Comedy or Musical) (Manny Delgado)

    •    RJ Mitte   “Breaking Bad” (Walter White Jr.)

    •    Samantha Harris   “Entertainment Tonight” (correspondent)

    •    Sarah Drew   “Grey’s Anatomy” (Dr. April Kepner)

    •    Sasha Pieterse   “Pretty Little Liars” (Alison)

    •    Shailene Woodley   “The Descendants” Best performance by an Actress in a motion picture)

    •    Shanola Hampton   “Shameless” (Veronica Fisher)

    •    Steven Yeun   “The Walking Dead” (Glenn)

    •    Thomas Gibson   “Criminal Minds” (Aaron Hotchner), “Dharma & Greg” (Greg)

    •    Thomas Jane   “Hung” (Best performance by an Actor in a TV series-Comedy or Musical)

    •    Tinsel Korey   “Twilight” movie series (Emily)

    •    Tony Denison   “The Closer” (Lt. Andy Flynn)

    •    Zach Woods   “The Office” (Gabe Lewis)

The Secret Room uses it’s celebrity influence to help charities and this event benefited this years charity of choice -  To Write Love On Her Arms . To Write Love on Her Arms is a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery.

Many exciting brands were onhand and celebs delighted in the tradition of Secret Room to pamper them with great products and brands such as: (Click on the name to go to their website)

Spa De Soleil offers a wide range of organic skincare products, including Olive Essence, O2CH, Dermatouch Natural Skin Care, Hydra Mar, Pure Minerals Ant-Aging, Mineral from the Dead Sea, and more.  They provide products that are natural and paraben-free.

Sonas San Francisco demonstrated their signature reclaimed denim, high-end jeans made from rolls of fabric too small for major corporations to profit from buying.  Their unique patched jeans are handmade in their San Francisco and Los Angeles locations and embraces a green ideal of recycling and reusing, even donating 10% of their profits toward ending animal exploitation.  Sonas means “happiness” in Irish, and their business practice seems designed to reflect that philosophy.

The Raven Spa in Santa Monica features traditional Thai massage, bodywork and Healing Center. It is a part of El Leon Spa and features acupuncture, facials and more. Available for special events.

Dermaesthetics gifted a selection of their clinically proven skincare lines.  Using advanced scientific formulas and extensive testing, Dermaesthetics has some of the most effective toners, cleansers and skin treatments available.

Kelly Teegarden Organics This organic chemical-free line of skin care was created by a cancer survivor, Kelly Teegarden, so that there is a choice for people who don’t want to expose themselves to the cancer-causing chemicals in some commercial products.

Caribbean Living Magazine gifted celebrities a week in the Bahamas at one of their stunning properties!

Fullbar allowed sampling of their delicious product and also gifted several boxes.  The specially formulated snacks are designed to curb hunger and simulate a feeling of fullness after just one bar.  The all-natural Slendestra in them causes the release of  cholecystokinin in your digestive tract, making you fuller for longer.

Izzy and Ali Handbags – Vegan and animal cruelty free. The stars love these gorgeous, vibrant with stunning colors and quality hardware. No one could not tell they were vegan and not leather!

Collagen M.D. Advanced Connectibe Tissue Formula – Pharmaceutical Hydrolyzed Collagen enhanced with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamins; Connectibve Tissue Anti-Aging Formula

Stephen James Luxury Organics presented their whole food bars, featuring an interesting combination of pre-sprouted and dehydrated flax, hazelnuts, dates and pecans.  A healthy, vegan alternative to candy bars, Luxury Organics also rate very low on the glycemic index.  Most important of all for a snack, they taste great as well.

Pet Head products are luxurious grooming products, trendy apparel and must-have accessories for hip hounds and pampered pooches.

Lotty Dotty showcased a truly one of a kind product with their take on apparel.  Lotty Dotty has developed an interactive T-shirt that allows one to change the look of the shirt by using 3D detachable pieces.  The idea sprang from developers’ Maya and Shevanne’s fond memories of playing with paper dolls as children.  Lotty Dotty T-shirts and handbags feature a paper-doll figure on the front of the product with a sewn-on Velcro bathing suit on which numerous Velcro-backed “outfits” can be attached and detached at will.  These mini-outfits are designed by clothing designers from all over the world.

Baby Hawk, otherwise known as the Cure for the Common Baby Carrier, provides customization unheard of in its competitors.  The soft structured baby carrier features triple padded straps, foam bottom strap and that rarest of qualities in a carrier, style. Baby Hawk was created by a mom and designed this baby carrier adopted from the  Mei Tai’s (Asian Baby Carriers) design, a Chinese-inspired idea that makes holding your little one on your front, back or hip as safe, as it is comfortable.

Bratt Decor had a beautiful display of upscale baby ‘house’ furniture designed for adults.

The Chia Co gifted a sample of its product, which they describe as nature’s superfood.  Chia is very high in the nutrients essential for a healthy diet including Omega 3, dietary fibre and protein as well as vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.  Grown and imported from Australia, chia seeds, bran and oil are gluten free wholegrains recommended by dieticians for everything from weight loss to managing diabetes.

Molar Muncher is a baby teether that helps the entire gum line.  Formed out of a single piece of FDA inspected silicone, the uniquely designed teether is intended to sooth teething at all stages while preventing nipple confusion and tooth displacement.  Made in the USA, the Molar Muncher is dishwasher safe and crafted without any crevices for germs to hide in.

Sprout made an appearance, as did Chica, the muppet star of the Sunny Side Up Show.  Offering toys, games and educational materials, Sprout interacted with celebrities and guests with a sincere enthusiasm that does credit to PBS and children’s programming.

NV – Hollywood’s Diet Pill! NV’s core formula is backed by two clinical studies that demonstrate its weight loss power. Their new weight-loss complex helps reshape your body and lose pounds and inches in just two weeks.

Mobile Photo Booth had set up what looked to be a permanent photo booth of the sort seen at malls and fairs, only to reveal that their booths are easily transported and available for rent.  An ideal way of adding a sense of nostalgic fun while capturing new memories on film, the booth was made available to attendees to enjoy.
www.mobilephotobooth.com

Mantra Ayurveda demonstrated their Ayurvedic solutions, which strive to source the purity and potency of nature’s offerings and enrich them with 5000 years old traditions. Mantra Ayurvedic Beauty Recipes are a range of Herbal products created from the purest herbs to cleanse and beautify. As opposed to other cosmetics, their products will not alter the structure and function of the skin. These herbal products are processed in combinations to form a range of world class beauty care products.

Vitamints Vitamin suppliment made easy. The mint-flavored chewable vitamins will guarantee you get your daily requirements and have fresh breath at the same time.

Hard Luck Candy Vodka staffed an entire bar for the enjoyment of celebrities and attendees, serving cocktails with their delicious new flavors of vodka.  There are many companies that make flavored vodkas, but very few that make them well.  Hard Luck Candy vodka is as true as its advertising; when they say it’s rootbeer vodka, it tastes like rootbeer.  Their 70 proof candy flavored vodka are available in four honestly delicious flavors: Red Fish, Root Beer Barrel, Orange Dream, and Lemon Drop.

Pure Pedi offers and exclusive foot treatment that combines exfoliating Alpha Hydroxy Acids with Lactic, Salicylic and Glycolic acids.  These compounds serve to remove dry and cracked heels, hard cracks and foot corns and calluses by acting as a foot peel.
The alpha hydroxy acid foot treatment, contains natural extracts of Aloe, Chamomile and Ginkgo Biloba, allows dry, cracked feet to naturally peel completely, eliminating hard and cracked heels and dry skin while helping to maintain the moisture levels of the skin in the long term.
www.purepedi.com

Nava Natural provided a demonstration and gift of some of their all natural skincare products.  Nava Natural Cosmetics has created a line with all natural ingredients from the Dead Sea, with no parabens or artificial colors.  Their exfoliating treatments help clean, repair and renew the skin while relieving stress and improving your general well-being.

SOY JOY gifted packs of 4 different delicious flavors. Combining soy with fruit, their pineapple, blueberry, strawberry and banana bars we enjoyed by everyone.

ShopNBC gifted their TYCOON for Brilliante® Platinum Embraced Eternity Band. Tycoon cut stones include 33 facets and reflect 30% more light than other cuts. Who needs diamonds when you have Brilliante®? Gorgeous!

Pink Lining – “Pink Lining is the international family lifestyle brand, famous for its signature ‘Yummy Mummy’ changing bag that aims to put the smile and design into practicality”

Cell Premium luxury skincare by Med Swiss Beauty, is the first, medical-cosmetic luxury Anti-Aging-skincare line from Switzerland. It‘s based on the Advanced Anti-Aging Complex by Dr. Harad Gerny, with active plant stem cells and hence a groundbreaking innovation that protects and regenerates stem cells of epidemics; with noticeable and visual results of rejuvenation of the skin.

Dolphin Organics – Natural and organic baby products that are vegan, hypoallergenic and free of parabens, sodium benzoate and all harsh chemicals.

Chick Boss Jewelry -  Made in Guatemala, every purchase from Chick Boss helps bridge the economic gap between young Guatemalans and their unskilled and illiterate parents.

Suave Professionals – Salon-quality hair care products

Elyon - The most Haute Esthetiques

Ogio – Golf accessories, backpacks, luggage – Ogio has it all.

Kemin - Inspired Molecular Solutions

Gro-Via is a organic cloth diaper baby system. Use organic fabrics for your precious baby.

Other sponsors included:

Colourburst original art, Cross the Road™, Home Spa Collection, Dr. Philip Bronner, My Face Cosmetics, Marie Todd, Inc, Nectave, Coca-cola, Spi-design, Mind to Body, Chef Stef Candy,  Poochkis, The Show 2009 cabernet, Emperia handbags, Wellnx, Paper cup design, Cliff bar, Kemin, Make Love Not Trash, Justin’s nut butter, Babo botanicals, Rosebud perfume, Hint water, The sugar diva, Aveyou beauty, Kind snacks, Pretzel chips
Toicastefan, Sydney candle, Norah marler, Cherry Blooms Australia, Dulcenea Lingerie, Travis Mathew, Baby Diego, Clos Du Bbois chardonnay, Guylian Belgian Chocolate truffles, Superberries, Kai fragrance, Aromanaturals.com, Beanitos, Phillips Brush, Opi, Specific Beauty, Nozin, Babo Botanicals, Chocolatines by Sweet Endeavours, Cheecha Puffs, Vivant skin care, Little Dudes Only, Toica Stefan, Bamboobies, Boobooloon Pet recovery collar, Lauren Nicole Gifts, Norah Marler, Luster premiun white, Wedge Works llc, Enchanting Quotes, Regalia Jewels, Superberries, Phillips Brush corporation, Skinnypop popcorn, Lulu, Kai, Naturally Lindy skin care, Nailiques, iSatori.

The 69th Annual Golden Globe Awards took place this past week in Hollywood, bringing together the worlds of TV and Film. Known worldwide for its glittering Golden Globe Awards ceremony held every January and its multi-million dollar donations to charity, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association had humble origins that stemmed solely from a group of journalists’ desire to efficiently and accurately cover all aspects of the world of entertainment.

Click here to see all the nominations and winners!

All eyes were on Hollywood for the 69th Golden Globe Awards and with those eyes come opportunities for many businesses.  HBO’s 10th annual Luxury Lounge at the Four Seasons Los Angeles in Beverly Hills was a perfect example of the blending of celebrity and branding with many of style’s leading names represented, such as sponsor L’Oréal Paris Beauty Suite and New Era Cap. Gifting suites allow businesses to garner much-needed exposure and endorsements from celebrities and media, while offering samples of their products to better acquaint consumers to their brand.

HBO’s Luxury Lounge was attended by Golden Globe-nominated television and film stars, who, along with media attendees enjoyed presentations from the following sponsors:

L’Oréal Paris was present with a grand fifteen foot-wide display station which celebrities signed for charity, and lived up to their grandiosity by gifting a selection of some of their newest beauty products, including Men’s Expert Vita Lift moisturizer and sunscreen.  They also offered numerous conditioners, anti-aging skin creams and Volumizing Fiber mascara.  Celebrities and nominees of the Golden Globes were pampered with manicures, hair and makeup in celebration of 40 years of L’Oréal’s “Because You’re Worth It” campaign. www.LorealParisUSA.com

New Era offered a choice of their many caps and jerseys at their gifting station.  Far more than just sports caps, New Era featured fedoras, hoodies, belts and shirts in a variety of sizes and styles, both for men and women. Celebs loved all the choices and delighted in their new gear. www.NewEraCap.com

Michael Antonio footwear ranged from highly functional to highly fantastical and it was all available for perusal, with an entire closet of sizes and styles on hand for gifting.  From wedges to platforms, whether boots or pumps, Michael Antonio’s staff showcased their fall, holiday and spring collections. www.MichaelAntonio.com

Boiron homeopathic medicines gifted a wide assortment of products, including safe and natural treatments for colds, sore throat, itchy eyes, coughs, burns, sleeplessness and much more.  The generous bag of medications included one of Boiron’s signature products, Oscillococcinum.  This homeopathic medicine has been shown to reduce the duration and intensity of the flu, is non-drowsy and has no side effects or drug interactions.  www.BoironUSA.com

Magaschoni gifted a multipurpose sweetheart cashmere scarf that could serve as a scarf, shawl or even sarong.  The representatives from Magaschoni demonstrated their high-quality clothing line and their philosophy that all women are beautiful and want the ability to comfortably exhibit their own unique style. www.Magaschoni.com

Andie McDowell and daughter Rainey Qualley, Miss Golden Globes 2012

Brahmin displayed their gorgeous line of luxury handbags and wallets, gifting many of their incredibly soft and well-crafted designs.  They offered a variety of colors and styles, including their new Vault Collection. www.Brahmin.com

Nautica demonstrated their most recent lines of swimsuits for men and women, including their new reversible bikini set.  The company representative explained the high standards that Nautica judges its apparel and accessories by, gifting a polo shirt, towel and reversible bathing suit to celebrities and media. www.Nautica.com

Basil Hayden was presented with flair and class; a bartender mixed various bourbon cocktails with Golden Globe-themed titles.  The gift of a 750ML bottle of Basil Hayden’s Super-Premium Bourbon was greatly appreciated after tasting the smooth, richly flavored liquor.  Presentation and performance went hand in hand at this fine bourbon’s station. www.facebook.com/BasilHaydens

Purity Vodka displayed their ultra-premium vodka in a beveled bottle almost as enticing as the liquid within.  Purity Vodka has won nine awards for its clear, smooth flavor and is currently the most celebrated in its category.  Distilled 34 times in a copper and gold still, master blender Thomas Kuutanen prides himself on using deionized water, natural mineral water and organic wheat products in distilling his high-end vodka.  Purity gifted 750ML bottles of its 2011 Vodka of the Year to attendees.

Gendarme Fragrance offered 2 ounce bottles of its crisp, fresh scented fragrance and lotion.  Made from lemon and lime, bergamot, lavender, and a hint of jasmine and lilac, there is nothing quite like it on the market. www.gendarme.com

Gamefly had a small but highly entertaining station, complete with video-game console and demos.  After explaining the benefits of renting games for the duration of your interest as opposed to buying them, the representative from Gamefly gifted a one-year, two-game subscription for their service, whereby two video-games could be rented at any given time for any duration desired within one year. www.GameFly.com

Mountain Gate Country Club is a private golf club located in the mountains above Santa Monica, recognized as one of the finest resort clubs in Southern California.  The club offered attendees golf and tennis memberships.

Many nominated stars that indulged included:

The Help’s Viola Davis (Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture-Drama), The Help’s Octavia Spencer (Best Performance by an Actress In A Supporting Role in a Motion Picture), 30 Rock’s Tina Fey (Best Performance by an Actress In A Television Series – Comedy Or Musical), The Guard’s Brendan Gleeson (Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Comedy Or Musical), Albert Nobbs Janet McTeer (Best Performance by an Actress In A Supporting Role in a Motion Picture), New Girl’s Hannah Simone (Best Television Series – Comedy Or Musical), Bridesmaids’ Wendy McLendon-Covey (Best Motion Picture – Comedy Or Musical), Glee’s Damian McGinty (Best Television Series – Comedy Or Musical), Games of Thrones’ Emilia Clarke and Lena Headey, (Best Television Series- Drama), Midnight in Paris’ Alison Pill and Corey Stoll (Best Motion Picture – Comedy Or Musical), The Help’s Brunson Green (Best Motion Picture- Drama), Enlightened’s Amy Hill (Best Television Series – Comedy or Musical), Cinema Verite’s Shari Springer Berman (Best Mini-Series Or Motion Picture Made For Television), Downtown Abbey’s Hugh Bonneville (Best Mini-Series Or Motion Picture Made for Television), Mildred Pierce’s Pamela Koffler, Christine Vachon and Ilene Landress (Best Mini-Series Or Motion Picture Made for Television), The Descendants’  Amara Miller and Nick Krause (Best Motion Picture-Drama), Moneyball’s Stan Chervin (Best Motion Picture-Drama), Boardwalk Empire’s Christopher McDonald and Tim Van Patten (Best Television Series- Drama), Modern Family’s Ariel Winter, Nolan Gould and Aubrey Anderson-Emmons (Best Television Series – Comedy Or Musical) The Artist’s Penelope Ann Miller (Best Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical), Cars 2’s Denise Ream and John Lasseter (Best Animated Feature Film), My Week With Marilyn Simon Curtis (Best Motion Picture – Comedy Or Musical).

Other celebrities attending the suite included: Jennifer Love Hewitt, Neil Patrick Harris, Andie MacDowell, Melissa RyCroft, Joe Manganiello, Janina Gavankar, Rutina Wesley, Todd Lowe, Chris Bauer, Adina Porter, Lauren Bowles and Lindsey Pulsipher, Katerina Graham, Michael Steger, Phoebe Tonkin, Anne Heche, Gregg Henry and Lennie James, Perry Reeves, Gilles Marini, Stana Katic, Kate Flannery, BooBoo Stewart, Sara Rue, Amanda Righetti, Melissa Rauch, Nina Garcia, Cassi Thompson, Evan Handler, Natalie Morales and Al Roker, Kevin Rahm, Shameless’ Shanola Hampton, Shar Jackson, Michael Cudlitz, Missi Pyle, Jim O’Heir, Austin Basis, Chuy Bravo,  Rainey MacDowell, Callie Thorne, James Tupper, Jason Isaacs, Joelle Carter, Louie C.K., Steve Yeun, Tom Payne,  Jeff Garlin and Kristen Quintrall.

The HBO® LUXURY LOUNGE®  is produced by Media Placement. www.mediaplacement.net

Music by J.D. Shultz

Watch for our videos from all these vendors very shortly!

Highlights included Debi Mazar’s speech about her love and adoration for her husband. She also spoke about future plans if her “Extra Virgin” cooking show on Cooking Channel didn’t work out – she would move to Tuscany and eat, drink and make love!

Gabriele Corcos and Debi Mazar of Extra Virgin, Kristine and Chef Ludo of Ludo Bites. Photo credit David Livingston

Tony Tripoli, comedy writer for Joan River’s Fashion Police on E!, brought the house down with his irreverent quibbles.

Jolene Sugarbaker of Trailer Park Test Kitchen, one of the celebrity award presenters at the Taste Awards, also charmed the audience with her blonde bouffant, neon blue eyeshadow and southern twang.

Jolene Sugarbaker of Trailer Park Test Kitchen with fans at Taste Awards

Other celebrity presenters included the Food Network’s Carrie McCully, Tanya Holland, Manouschka Guerrier, and Candice Kumai, Bravo TV’s Fabio Viviani, Nyesha Arrington, and Danielle Keene, Public Television’s Joanne Weir and Nathan Lyon, ION TV’s Michelle Harris, food broadcast gurus Bobby Bognar, Zuzy Martin Lynch, and Susan Irby, plus food and drink humorists Zane Lamprey.

Special Achievement Honoree Awards presented during the evening went to Kung Fu Panda 2 (The Seiji Horibuchi Award for Outstanding Animation) and Debi Mazar (Outstanding Passion). Mad Fashion (Bravo), Kaitlyn’s Beauty Journal (KTSF), and Nail Files (TV Guide) were given the Breakout Fashionistas of the Year Award, and Cuisine Culture (Public Television), Ludo Bites America (Sundance Channel), and Restaurant Impossible (Food Network) were given the Kikkoman Award for Breakout Foodies of the Year. Kikkoman was a sponsor of the event.

Queens of the Quirky Cocktail: Alie and Georgia at Taste Awards

Among the evening’s Award Winners were television programs such as the Travel Channel’s “No Reservations” for Best Food Program and for Best Food Travel Series, Zane Lamprey’s HDNet series “Drinking Made Easy” for Best Drink or Beverage Program, Cooking Channel’s “Originals with Emeril” for Best New Series and “Extra Virgin” for Best Home Chef in a Series, Lifetime’s “Project Runway” for Best Fashion or Design Program, Bravo’s “Top Chef: Just Desserts” for Best Single Topic Series and “Top Chef” for the Kikkoman Award for Best Reality Series – Food or Drink, the Food Network’s “Aarti Party” for Best Green or Organic Program, and ABC’s “Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution” for Best Chef in a Series.

Public Television series “Check Please, Bay Area” picked up Best City or Regional Program, and “Mexico – One Plate at a Time” received the award for Best Ethnic Program.

Hannah Hart of My Drunk Kitchen web series. Photo credit David Livingston

Web winners included “My Drunk Kitchen” for Best Comedy Series, “Without Borders” for Best Food Travel Program, “Style.com” for Best Fashion or Design Programs on the Web, “Average Betty” for the Best Critic or Review Series (on TV or Web), “Raising the Bar with Jamie Boudreau” for Best Drink or Beverage Program, and “Food Wishes”, which was presented by Austin Lau of YouTube and which won the award for Best Food Program on the Web, along with a foodie trip to Estonia. “Bon Appetit” magazine won for Best Newspaper or Magazine Program.

In the film category, “Magnum Ice Cream Original Short Film Series by Karl Lagerfeld” picked up the award for Best Film or Documentary, and in the new Radio category, Evan Kleiman “Good Food on KCRW” got the win, along with “Come Dine With Me” (BBC America) for Best International Program.

The Taste (pronounced tasty) Awards after party was a Dionysian feast of succulent roasted goose from Pig n’ Whistle, Estonian Chef Marika Blossfeldt‘s uber-delicious and healthy beet salad and fresh baked bread and tipples from Alquimia Tequila tastings to vodka cocktails to wine.

Chef Marika Blossfeldt interviewed by travel journalist, Lindsay Taub.

A full list of Award Winners, Honorees, and Nominees, plus event photos and coverage, can be seen on the site, www.TheTasteAwards.com.

Nominees, presenters and attendees of the 2011 Golden Globe Awards were able to fulfill all of their get-ready needs at this year’s Wella Beauty Bar. Wella Beauty Bar, in association with BMF Media Group, took up shop in Nine Zero One Salon off of Santa Monica Boulevard for its two-day extravaganza of complimentary spa services. Wella made sure that the bases were covered with hair care, manicures, massages, spray tanning and makeup applications.

Wella Professionals (www.wella.com) gave attendees blowouts complete with their exclusive line of products. Wella started back in 1880 with innovations in wigs and hair pieces and has grown into an innovative and top-of-the-line hair company expanding through Asia/Pacific and always reinvigorating its style. Recently, the company relaunched with Wella Professionals care and Styling.

Celebrity stylist Andy LeCompte said that he used Wella Ocean Spritz while styling icon Madonna’s hair for the big evening. Madonna took home a Golden Globe for Best Original Song for “Masterpiece” on the “WE” soundtrack.

To get rid of those wintertime blues, Fake Bake was onhand offering spray tans and lotions to bronze up the skin without harmful UV rays. Based in the UK, Fake Bake (www.fakebake.com) is a leading sunless tanning brand with a large range of products and services, including makeup, lip gloss, lotions and applicator tools. The products contain botanically extracted ingredients and no preservatives, and the award-winning formulas are also known to moisturize, hydrate and protect the skin as well.

With a stressful weekend like that of the Golden Globes, Bio-Oil stayed busy giving hand massages with the brand’s own advanced moisturizing oil that is said to smooth and tone scars and stretch marks. Bio-Oil (www.bio-oilusa.com) can be found in local drugstores like CVS, Walgreens and Target.

Also in attendance was the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (www.MiamiAndBeaches.com) offering its own spa treatments and awarding lucky winners with luxurious spa packages from the upcoming Miami Spa Month.

Schick Quattro for Women (www.quattroforwomen.com) gifted their own inventive razor and also had a fun quiz “What’s Your Dating TrimStyle?” to see if ones trim style lines up with their dating style. E! News’ own Giuliana Rancic was back in action this weekend and stopped by the Wella Beauty Bar. Before rushing to her red carpet rehearsals, she grabbed the new vibrating razor saying that it would be great for Joan Rivers. UV Vodka provided refreshments and cocktails during the two-day event.

Ali Fedotowsky of ABC’s “The Bachelorette” was spotted at the Beauty Bar getting a manicure of a pink/peach color with a friend. She was excited to see the Schick Quattro for Women section with the complimentary razors since she had forgotten to bring one with her to LA. When she was leaving, she ran into current “Bachelor” Ben Flajnik, and they quickly discussed Ali’s top picks for him from this season.

Last season’s winner of “Dancing with the Stars” Karina Smirnoff attended for all of her pampering needs, including a blowout, manicure, makeup application and Fake Bake spray tan. The dancer even gave a couple of lucky guests a private salsa lesson. Smirnoff was in great spirits the entire time, even yelling “Opa!” when a stylist shattered a glass on the floor.

Jessica Szohr (“Gossip Girl”) brought her friend Cameron along and wanted the day’s focus to be on him as he partook in a spa manicure and glass of champagne. Szohr had a hand massage from Bio-Oil and was seen talking to everyone in the room. Reality star Camilla Grammar also enjoyed the Bio-Oil station and took a bottle saying, “This product is great. I really do love it.” The “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” member was accompanied by her boyfriend attorney Dmitri Charalambopoulos, and the two also picked up the vibrating Schick Quattro razor.

Kim Richards—also of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills”–asked for five bottles of Bio-Oil, one for each daughter, and said things are going well for her now, and she is getting along with sister Kyle. TV personality and red carpet host Maria Menounos brought mother Stavroula with her to get ready for the Golden Globes, explaining that it is tradition for the two to have a full day of treatments before an award show.

Actress Busy Phillips brought young daughter Birdie with her for a mother daughter spa day. Phillips (“Cougar Town”) picked out a hair style from an old photo of Drew Barrymore, and Birdie quickly decided she would like the same matching braids. Phillips attended the Golden Globes sitting alongside friend Michelle Williams—the two starred on “Dawson’s Creek” together. Williams won for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical for her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in “My Week with Marilyn” and Phillips cheered alongside her big win.

Singer/actress Haylie Duff arrived at the Wella Beauty Bar with friends Leah Renee (“The Playboy Club”) and Jenna Dewan-Tatum (“Step Up”). Duff discussed younger sister Hilary’s pregnancy, though didn’t give up too much information except to say she is excited. Haylie is currently working on a new healthy cookbook and voicing Summer Wheatly in the animated TV series “Napoleon Dynamite.” Her piece of beauty advice: “wash your face every night.”

Another “Bachelor” favorite Melissa Rycroft and husband Tye Strickland chatted up their upcoming CMT show “Melissa and Tye: A New Reality,” likening it to Tori Spelling’s reality show with husband Dean. The show will offer fans a glimpse into their homelife with each other and baby Ava. While in the Fake Bake lounge, Rycroft also talked about this season of “The Bachelor” and told guests she would never want her daughter to go on the show “look what a hot mess mom was!”

Guests received an exclusive gift bag on site including Wella Professionals Enrich Shampoo , Moisturizer, Heat Protection Spray and Shine Spray; Bio-Oil skincare product; and gift certificates to exhale MindBodySpa, David Barton Gym and Ko’An Skincare.

Photo credit (in order of slideshow):
Melissa Rycroft & Tye Strickland – Photo Credit – Tony Lowe
Melissa Rycroft – Photo Credit – Gabriel Olsen
Carmen Electra & Cheryl Burke – Photo Credit – Maury Phillips
Carmen Electra – Photo Credit – Gabriel Olsen
Anne Heche – Photo Credit – Tony Lowe
Camille Grammer – Photo Credit – Gabriel Olsen
Haylie Duff Leah Renee & Jenna Dewan-Tatum – Photo Credit – Maury Phillips
Karina Smirnoff – Photo Credit – Gabriel Olsen
Karina Smirnoff – Photo Credit – Maury Phillips
Melissa Rycroft & Tye Strickland – Photo Credit – Gabriel Olsen
Leah Renee – Photo Credit – Maury Phillips
Maria Menounos – Photo Credit – Maury Phillips
Maria Menounos – Photo Credit – Maury Phillips
Melissa Rycroft & Tye Strickland – Photo Credit – Gabriel Olsen
Stephanie Pratt & Amber Lancaster – Photo Credit – Gabriel Olsen
Stephanie Pratt & Amber Lancaster – Photo Credit – Maury Phillips
Stephanie Pratt – Photo Credit – Maury Phillips
Jessica Szohr – Photo Credit – Gabriel Olsen
Jessica Szohr – Photo Credit – Gabriel Olsen
Busy Philipps – Photo Credit – Gabriel Olsen
Kim Richards – Photo Credit – Gabriel Olsen
Haylie Duff – Photo Credit – Gabriel Olsen
Ali Fedotowsky – Photo Credit – Maury Phillips

Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show

The International Fiery Foods Challenge features local chefs representing travel destinations found at the show.  Literally you can eat your way around the world from sampling Frikadelle (a sort of German meatball), Spicy Tequila Marinated Prawns, Rendang Padang (Indonesian Caramelized Beef Curry), and Medjool Dates with chorizo, mascarpone and Tunisian harissa (a chili sauce).  Participating chefs are Kai Loebach of CurryWurst, Amir Thomas of Duo Dishes, SriAdriani ‘Jenny’ Martono of Indonesia Tourism, and Tracey Augustine of Cashmere Bites.

The Mark DeCarlo Interactive Cooking Class and Competition will follow the Fiery Foods Challenge.  Three lucky audience members will be picked from a drawing to prove their kitchen skills right on the spot, recreating a dish of Mark’s choosing.  The audience will vote for the best cook, who will win an all-inclusive Yucatan vacation.

Another highlight in Saturday’s line up is Andrew Zimmern of Travel Channel’s Bizarre Foods live appearance and talk. Make sure to stick around afterward to meet the influential TV host.

Sunday’s Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show-goers won’t leave hungry either.  The Taiwan Tourism Bureau is holding a “Taiwan Popcorn Chicken” demonstration with Chef Frances Lee of the Mighty Boba Truck.  Then, Ventura based Chef Jason Collis will host “Farm to Table—Luscious Lemon and Avocado Taste Sensations from 120-year-old, Sustainable Limoneira Ranch.”  And, see a top Herradura Tequila ambassador demonstrate Tequila pairing tips.

Also not to be missed is “Travel for Foodies – Tips, Trends, and Tools for the Culinary Traveler,” with food and travel experts Michael Cervin, Linda Kissam, Dr. Kathy Gruver, and Chef Allan Cragg.

With the new year, the world’s hotspot travel destinations are the talk of the travel world. Hear what some of the world’s most beloved travel personalities picks are, including Samantha Brown, Andrew Zimmern, Peter Greenberg, Pauline Frommer, Mark DeCarlo, and Patricia Schultz at the Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show.

Attendees can enjoy cultural performances and participate in a variety of activities including scuba lessons from Beadiver.com, a 25’ rock climbing wall, zip line, and children’s activities area.  The five-acre show floor will be packed with more than 400 destinations, tour operators and travel professionals providing one-on-one consultations on visiting destinations as near as Catalina Island and as far as Indonesia.

Tickets for seventh annual Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show at Long Beach Convention Center are $12 at the door or discount tickets online in advance at $9 with Promo Code: LAPR.

Ticket purchase information, a current schedule of speakers and more details are available at www.latravelshow.com.

The LA Times Travel Show

Touted as one of BizBash’s “Top 10 Southern California Trade Shows and Conventions”, the Los Angeles Times Travel Show returns to the L.A. Convention Center January 28-29, 2012.

In its 14th year, the 2012 Travel Show features all-new themed areas focused on family and active vacations, cruises, and luxury and leisure travel. A culinary stage will serve up regional and exotic flavors with cooking and cocktail demonstrations, while experiential activities and cultural performances will complete the international atmosphere. For example, creators of the infamous McNuggetini, Alie and Georgia, will be showing you how to make one of their wacky cocktails.

Here are just some of the special guest speakers for the LA Times Travel Show 2012:

Arthur Frommer (Frommer’s travel guides)
Rick Steves (“Rick Steves’ Europe Through the Back Door”)
Times Travel editor Catharine Hamm
Don Wildman (“Off Limits”)
Josh Gates (“Destination Truth”)
Sarah Schlichter (IndependentTraveler.com)
Alice Short (Times Features editor)
Lisa Ling (“Our America”)
Adam Richman (“Man v. Food Nation,” “America the Edible”)
Planning Your Vacation

Making your travel arrangements has never been easier with the help of the LA Times Travel Show 2012:

• American Express Travel Services will be on site ready to create itineraries and book travel.
• U.S. Department of State will be providing passport services.
• Tour operators and travel professionals representing locations near and far, various modes of transportation and recreation and related products and services will be on hand all weekend, offering information, special pricing and giveaways.

Tickets are $10. Purchase in advance at www.latimes.com/travelshow. One child age 16 and below admitted free with paid adult.

Connect on Facebook.com/LATimesEvents and @LATimesEvents (#travelshow) to stay up to date.

2012 Los Angeles Times Travel Show
Los Angeles Convention Center
1201 South Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90015

Saturday & Sunday 10 am – 5 pm

The star-studded 3rd Annual TASTE AWARDS are taking place this year at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood on January 12, and LA’s The Place Magazine is giving away two tickets to the Awards Show and Afterparty! To enter, “LIKE” our page on Facebook,  or Subscribe to LA’s The Place to be entered to win!

The stars and celebrities of food and fashion television and film are preparing to revel in Hollywood at their own one-of-a-kind awards show. The TASTE AWARDS (also known as the TASTY Awards) is the premier awards show honoring the year’s best in Food, Fashion, and Home Lifestyle programs on Television, in Film, Online, and on Radio. The goal is to recognize and acknowledge outstanding excellence in video and film content focused on food, drink, fashion, design, and home lifestyle.

Appearances by stars, celebrities, producers and executives from networks and platforms such as the Food Network, the Style Network, Bravo, the Cooking Channel, TLC, Discovery, Lifetime, E! Entertainment Television, PBS, NBC, ABC, the CW, HGTV, the Travel Channel, HD Net, Hulu, YouTube, Sony Pictures, and more.

Jamie Oliver, Average Betty, Anthony Bourdain, Top Chef: Just Desserts, Project Runway, What Not to Wear, and Rick Bayless lead the awards finalists with several nominations each.

Fans, networks, producers and sponsors could not be more excited. The Awards Show features a star-studded lineup, including presenters and attendees such as Joanne Weir (PBS), Robert Irvine (Food Network), Tanya Holland (Cooking Channel, Food Network), Nathan Lyon (Fit TV, Discovery Health, PBS, Food Network), Bobby Bognar (History Channel), Austin Lau (YouTube), Danielle Keene (Bravo), Amy Paffrath (MTV, G4, E!), Ludo Lefebvre (Sundance Channel), Ashley James (Public Television), Debi Mazar and Gabriele Corcos (Cooking Channel), and more.

The full list of nominees and categories for the 2012 TASTE AWARDS, including Best Food Program, Best Drink Program, Best Film, Best Fashion Program, and Best Organic Program can be seen on www.TheTasteAwards.com, or www.TastyAwards.com.

Note: Winner’s tickets can be picked up at Will Call, photo ID required (over 21)

Click here to view the embedded video.

This New Year’s Eve, Connor Cruise, LA’s newest young DJ and 16 year-old son of Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, will be spinning live at The Big Bang celebration presented by The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Hollywood & Highland. Known as DJ C-Squared, Connor will be spinning from 9:30-10:30pm in The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and Extra VIP Suite where celebrity guests will enjoy cocktails made with The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s new CBTL single serve machine.

This New Year’s Eve spectacular, being coined as the “Times Square of the West Coast,” will host over 5,000 people including premiere Hollywood tastemakers and celebrities. The entire 5th level of the Hollywood & Highlands Complex will be transformed into a festival-style extravaganza featuring four different and unique areas of entertainment including a moonlit Renaissance Hotel Pool Deck, The Annex Special Event Center, The H&H VIP Room, and the World Famous Grand Ballroom, which also plays host to the official after party and Governor’s Ball to The Academy Awards.

The all-star DJ and support line up includes DJ MisterE, Kimberly Cole, Adam Nello, DJ Danielle Tavella, DJ Rico Rox, DJ Hustle, EQ Live, Bobby Solomon, Midi Mafia, DJ Prophecy, DJ Korina Bliss, and DJ Kido.

Cirque du Soleil is offering a combo ticket that gets guests category 2 seating at the 8pm IRIS show with direct access into Big Bang after the show for $150. The same combo is available with VIP access for $250 and these tickets are available online now.

General Admission is $75* and includes 5th Floor GA Access (Grand Ballroom, The Annex, and common areas), dinner buffet by WOLFGANG PUCK, and live performances by LUPE FIASCO, COBRA STARSHIP, Rock Mafia and Special Guests. * Prices are subject to change and may go up closer to the event.

VIP tickets are $150* and entail 5th Floor All Access (Governor’s Ballroom, Renaissance Pool Deck, The Annex, H&H VIP, and all common areas) with live performances by LUPE FIASCO, COBRA STASHIP, Rock Mafia and Special Guests, plus VIP Access to H&H VIP Room with OPEN BAR ALL NIGHT and dinner buffet by WOLFGANG PUCK. * Prices are subject to change and may go up closer to the event.

A limited number of Table Packages and Platinum VIP Pit Passes with Exclusive Pre-Show Artist Meet and Greet tickets are available by calling 323-461-9800.

For more information or to purchase tickets, go to  http://www.BigBangNYE.com.

Sponsors of Big Bang NYE 2012 include Bud Light Platinum, Coffee Bean, The Safe Cig, Turkish Airlines and Scooch TV.

Have you made your Christmas, Holiday and New Year’s Eve dining and party plans yet?

LA’s The Place suggests some of our favorite hotspots for great holiday dining and New Year’s Eve celebrations. 

 Los Angeles Christmas and New Year’s Dining and Party Options: Click on the Red Links to read all the details!

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From their Christmas Dine + Stay Package to exclusive New Year’s Eve Dine at Gordon Ramsey’s and overnight options, The London West Hollywood Hotel has it all. Check it out to see all their excellent options they are offering! The London West Hollywood and restaurants therein are gorgeous!

Celebrate the Holiday Season in Style at The London West Hollywood

You can’t go wrong if Kerry Simon is in the name. His cuisine is impeccable. In his true fashion, you’ll love LA Market’s spin on classic holiday dishes influenced by the restaurant’s signature contemporary comfort cuisine. Highly recommend!

LA Market Restaurant By Kerry Simon Presents Delectable Three-Course Menus For the Holiday Season

If you wanted to travel to London, Rio de Janeiro or New York to ring in 2012, here’s your chance, without ever leaving LA. Crustacean in Beverly Hills will take you to New Year’s Eve festivities at world-renoun locations such as Big Ben, Copacabana Beach, Times Square, and Rodeo Drive, beginning at “Noon with a Midnight Vibe” with an open brunch menu and endless champagne to ring in the new year. Read here and choose or stay all day and experience them all:  Crustacean in Beverly Hills Noon to Midnight “Around The World” New Year’s Eve Party

Where glitz and glamour reign supreme on the legendary Hollywood and Vine, W Hollywood presents 4 different New Year’s Eve festivities, all without having to drive anywhere! Choose from Delphine, The Living Room, The Great Room and Station.

Read about each one in our article: W Hotel Hollywood Celebrates New Year’s with Four NYE Parties

If fine dining is your forte this New Years Eve. then celebrate the evening with WP24 Restaurant and Lounge at the Ritz Carlton in downtown LA. Offering a fabulous and upscale Chinese six-course meal, you’re sure to start the New Year out right.

Read More:  Ring In the New Year at WP24 Restaurant and Lounge at the Ritz Carlton at LA Live

CHAYA Restaurants in Beverly Hills, downtown Los Angeles, and Venice will enjoy an array of festive New Year’s Eve dining celebrations and exclusively-themed evenings including a “Midnight in Paris,” “New York Nights” and “Mardi Gras

CHAYA Restaurants Offer “Midnight in Paris,” “New York Nights” and “Mardi Gras” inspired celebrations this New Year’s Eve

In the mood for a Mexican twist to your dining this Holiday season? Taberna Mexicana in Beverly Hills wants to give you a special gift card just for dining at their restaurant!

Read all about it here:  Spice Up Your New Years Eve At Taberna Mexicana

Commemorate Christmas Eve and ring in the New Year at Silver Lake’s newest Indian-inspired hot spot Naya Sunset & Naya Lounge. Sure to give you the best of both worlds with delectable cuisine and late night entertainment to countdown to the New Year, Naya Sunset & Lounge offers everything you could want in one night.

Read More:  Naya Sunset & Naya Lounge To Host Your New Years Festivities

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Laguna Cliffs Marriott in Dana Point

Strictly Parties!

The Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach will host a festive James Bond-inspired Casino Royale-themed New Year’s Eve bash December 31, 2011. Hurry! Tickets sell out fast. Read all about in our article  Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach Hosts Shade Royale New Year’s Eve Bash Dec. 31st.

Drai’s Hollywood New Years Eve 2011 — “A Black Tie Affair”
http://lastheplace.com/2011/12/08/drais-hollywood-new-years-eve-2011-a-black-tie-affair/

The biggest party of the year is here so join Drai’s Hollywood for their 1st Annual NYE Celebration, “A Black Tie Affair”, as they’ll be Puttin’ on the Ritz and bringing the Golden Age of Hollywood back to life for one night only with an evening of incredibly delicious food, flowing champagne, beautiful party people, and a special surprise to bring in the New Year.

Celebrate New Years Eve at Pourtal Wine Bar in Santa Monica at the ocean, with Bottomless Bubbly for 20.12! Drink champagne all night long to celebrate 2012 for only $20.12. So clever and such a deal! Read about the champagne extravaganza here…

Party with Mario Lopez at Hollywood’s Star-Studded “Big Bang New Year’s Eve Blow Out” at Hollywood & Highland Center

Last year’s event in 2010 was sold out and W Hollywood is planning to outdo itself as each room will be decked out with decor galore and festive cocktails to sip on, ensuring an unforgettable New Year’s bash.

If you’ve always wanted to walk the red carpet in true celebrity fashion, W Hollywood makes it happen for New Year’s Eve. Enter the party on a stunning red carpet that leads up to a floating spiral staircase and suspended glass chandelier. Three levels of entertainment will be available to suit your celebratory whims.

Delphine, the modern California bistro will be playing house music, while top 40’s hits will transport party goers between the über–contemporary Living Room and outdoor oasis, Station featuring video-art on the towering 35-foot outdoor screen. Patrons who prefer Hip Hop and R&B can mix and mingle in The Great Room.

New Years Eve at Delphine, Station, The Living Room, and The Great Room begins with an open bar from 9 p.m. until 2 a.m. Tickets for open bar: $100.

To whet your cocktail appetite, here is a preview of W Hollywood’s specialty crafted cocktails to be served up at NYE 2011 Bash:

Spiced Rum Fizz

Bacardi Oakheart Spiced Rum, orange and lime juice, cream, almond syrup, egg white, orange flower water, and nutmeg

Gingo Smash

Booker’s Bourbon Whiskey, Rock Sake, lemon juice, agave nectar, raspberries, and fresh cilantro

Daily Dose

Grey Goose L’Orange Vodka, raspberry,Black Raspberry Liqueur, orange juice, and lime juice

For ticket information, visit www.whollywoodnye.com or www.facebook.com/stationhollywood

W Hollywood
6250 Hollywood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90028
323.798.1355

New Year’s Eve is a truly a night unlike any other…

This year, resolve to spend it among the stars 12 stories above Hollywood at LA’s most popular nightlife destination. Situated on the famous corner at Hollywood & Vine – the cradle of the LA’s nightlife resurgence – Drai’s Hollywood crowns the new W Hotel and proves just how good it is at the top, boasting a penthouse palace with over 20,000 square feet of state-of-the-art opulence and breathtaking city views from its open air poolside. With floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing fireworks in the night sky and indoor/outdoor environments providing an unparalleled NYE experience, this “Black Tie Affair” is destined to ring in 2011 in new Hollywood glamour.

All Private Seating Packages and $150 General Admission Tickets include 2 hours (9pm-11pm) of delectable tray-passed hors d’ oeuvres created by Executive Chef Patrick Florendo with champagne and wine service by Moet Hennessy.

General Admission Tickets: $150. Available for pre-sale and pickup at Drai’s Hollywood Monday-Sunday,10am-close. Ticket includes 2 hours of complimentary champagne/wine & gourmet passed hors de oeuvres. Black tie or upscale dress is required for entry.

Drai’s Hollywood is located inside the W Hotel at 6250 Hollywood Blvd in Hollywood For questions or to reserve your ticket and table package, email RSVP@drais.net or call 323-962-1111.  Or watch the video on your phone now: http://tinyurl.com/DraisHW2011NYE.

Drai’s Hollywood NYE Private Table Packages:

Bronze Package ($2000): 4 Admission Tickets, Private Poolside Table with 1 bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne & 1 bottle of Belvedere Vodka.
Silver Package ($2500): 4 Admission Tickets, Private Poolside Daybed with 1 bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne & 1 bottle of Belvedere Vodka
Gold Package ($3000): 6 Admission Tickets, Private Poolside Cabana or Nightclub Booth with 2 bottles of Veuve Clicquot Champagne & 1 bottle of Belvedere Vodka
Platinum Package ($4000): 6 Admission Tickets, Private Nightclub Booth with 2 bottles of Dom Perignon Champagne & 1 bottle of Belvedere Vodka
Diamond Package ($5000): 8 Admission Tickets, Private Dancefloor Booth with 2 bottles of Dom Perignon Champagne & 2 bottles of Belvedere Vodka
The Crown Jewel ($10000): 16 Admission Tickets, Private Poolside Firepit with 4 bottles of Dom Perignon Champagne & 3 bottles of Belvedere Vodka

For more information, visit www.tabernamexicana.com or call 310-858-7070.

Taberna Mexicana is located at 369 North Bedford Drive in Beverly Hills. For more information, visit www.tabernamexicana.com or call 310-858-7070.

Christmas Eve at Naya promises to be a culinary and celebratory journey. The elegant five-course menu features an Angel’s Delight cocktail, assorted Samosas, Green Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette, Black Lentil Stew, Ginger Curry and a Lamb Carving Station with Tandoor Ginger Cornbread and Naya Rice. The gastronomic experience is completed with Peppermint Mousse for dessert and Wassail to toast. The Christmas Eve menu is $30 per person. Reservations are being accepted now.

For reservations call 323-663-8268, email info@nayasunset.com.

On New Year’s Eve, guests can choose from two options. Those looking for a full night’s festivities will indulge in a five-course dinner with open bar, followed by belly dancing entertainment, live DJ and toasting the night away in the lounge, outdoor patio and restaurant. Alternatively, those looking for a perfect party playground, can arrive at 10:30 p.m. for drinks and dancing.

New Year’s Eve dinner reservations begin at 7 p.m. and cost $75 per person, including open bar and post-dinner party. Late night guests are invited at 10:30 p.m. for a fee of $60 per person, which includes open bar.

The New Year’s Eve menu starts with Cone Pappadum with Pickeled Carrot. The Second Course features a choice of Vegetarian Curried Sunset Soup or Mango-Feta Salad. The Third Course includes the option of Tandoori Blackened Chicken with Naya Risotto, Cumin-Coriander Dusted Seared Tuna with Avocado Raita or Spinach Roulade with Kidney Bean Samosa. The Fourth Course offers a choice of Butter Chicken Masala - cornish game hen served with buttery-tomato sauce and Naya rice, Cognac-Mustard Prawns - jumbo shrimp, onion-tomato masala, cognac and reduced balsamic glaze, served with Naya rice, Filet Mignon Curry with Garlic Mashed Potatoes fork tender filet in a traditional “breakfast” curry, or Coconut Moile Baby Eggplant with Naya Risotto – baby eggplant in mustard-chili coconut curry.  Dessert is a choice of Rose Donut with Chilled Pineapple or a Chocolate Ice Cream Filled Samosa.

For reservations call 323-663-8268, email info@nayasunset.com.

With a laid back vibe, eclectic lounge music playing, a variety of spaces to explore including a lushly landscaped and canopied garden patio with fireplaces, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve at Naya offer a new twist on the traditional. Come on the journey.

About Naya Sunset & Naya Lounge:
Naya Sunset and Naya Lounge are located at 3705 West Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles (Silver Lake), CA  90026. Naya Lounge is open daily from 4pm to 2am and Naya Sunset serves dinner from 6pm to midnight nightly. For reservations call 323-663-8268, email info@nayasunset.com. Connect with Naya Sunset at http://nayasunset.com/, and on Facebook and Twitter to see menus, learn about special events, and discover the latest news. For parties, filming, photo shoots, catering and private events, contact events@nayasunset.com

The theme of the New Year’s Eve menu is “Several Tastes of Good Fortune”, and Chef de Cuisine Sara Johannes’s six-course menu allows guests to indulge in WP24’s signature dishes and upscale Chinese fare. Menu items include live Maine “angry lobster” with spicy Szechuan chilies, fried garlic, black bean dust and Lop Cheung sausage fried rice; and roasted duckling “pecking style” with traditional garnishes, winter wild mushrooms, fresh chilies, scallions and basil.

The six-course menu is $250 per person exclusive of tax and gratuity. Reservations can be made for 6 p.m. or 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 31, 2011 by calling WP24 Restaurant and Lounge at 213.743.8824. WP24 Restaurant and Lounge is located at 900 W. Olympic Blvd in Los Angeles. 

Several Tastes of Good Fortune: New Year’s Eve Tasting Menu

Winter Squash & King Crab “Hot & Sour” Soup
Sweet Prawn Wontons, Kabocha, Thai Basil, Fried Ginger

  Dim Sum Sampling
Chive Crystal Dumpling, Dan Dan Chili Dumpling, Tiny Pork Belly Dumpling,
Shrimp and Lobster Har Gow, Curried Seafood Shu Mai

  Live Maine “Angry Lobster”
Spicy Szechuan Chilies, Fried Garlic, Black Bean Dust
Lop Cheung Sausage Fried Rice

 Roasted Duckling “Peking Style” with Traditional Garnishes
Winter Wild Mushrooms, Fresh Chilies, Scallions, Basil

 A Duo of Kobe Beef:
Grilled “Szechuan Style” NY Strip & Braised Short Rib Hot Pot

  New Year’s Eve Dessert

 $250 per person
Chef de Cuisine Sara C. Johannes

Screening details below:

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED
Saturday, December 10
AMC Burbank 16
125 E. Palm Ave.
Burbank, CA
11AM

To reserve and download your pass, visit gofobo.com/RSVP and enter the promotional code: LATHPLGN2P. The first 50 fans will be guaranteed seats for the screening.

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED
Animated comedy-adventure
Release:  December 16, 2011
Director: Mike Mitchell
Written by: Jonathan Aibel & Glenn Berger, based on the characters created by Ross Bagdasarian and Janice Karman
Producers: Janice Karman, Ross Bagdasarian
Cast: Jason Lee, David Cross, Jenny Slate, and Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler, Jesse McCartney, Amy Poehler, Anna Faris, Christina Applegate

The vacationing Chipmunks and Chipettes are turning a luxury cruise liner into their personal playground, until they become ‘chipwrecked’ on a remote island.  As the ‘Munks and Chipettes scheme to find their way home, they accidentally discover their new turf is not as deserted as it seems.

For those who wish to “take an elevator home” and celebrate all night long, Shade Hotel is offering a special Casino Royale New Year’s Eve guestroom package for the night of December 31, which includes a Deluxe Spa Room, a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, New Year’s Eve party favors and two tickets to the Casino Royale New Year’s Eve event. Guests will also receive a complimentary beach breakfast buffet, use of beach cruiser bicycles, Wifi and access to the nearby Equinox Gym. The package is based on availability and is $599 for double occupancy.

About The Zislis Group

The Zislis Group’s portfolio includes Shade Hotel, ROCK’N FISH Restaurants (Manhattan Beach, L.A. Live, and Laguna Beach), Rock & Brews restaurant and beer garden (El Segundo), Mucho Ultima Mexicana restaurant (Manhattan Beach), Brewco microbrewery and restaurant (Manhattan Beach), and its latest addition The Strand House restaurant overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Manhattan Beach.

Shade is located at 1221 North Valley Drive in Manhattan Beach. For more information about the event contact Alyssa Holden at 310.698.5560.

RevitaLash Advanced gifted their eyelash conditioner that lengthens and thickens eyelashes in only 3 weeks, faster than the original; as well as their new hair product, Hair by RevitaLash, which is a conditioner that provides fuller, thicker hair and RevitaLash Mascara and Perfect Primer that helps mascara better adhere to eyelashes also enhances eye color.

Click here to view the embedded video.

J. Nicole’s Day Spa and Salon a Bumble & Bumble Exclusive Salon gifted a package containing Obagi medical skincare products, a gift card for a set of Novalash Candied Permanent Eyelash Extensions, a gift card for a house-call massage as well as a gift card for $100 worth of services at the salon and spa.

Click here to view the embedded video.

In the Land of Apparel there were tank tops, t-shirts and hoodies gifted to celebrities like Liz Hernandez of Power 106 and E! News, and Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino.

Click here to view the embedded video.

SGP gifted their fully customizable iPhone 4/4S cases with the addition of their sensitive and compact stylus pens.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp provides a unique experience that allows people to follow their dreams to write, record and perform with rock stars and to become a rock star themselves. They donated six guitars to be singed by celebrities including Paul Stanley of KISS and other talent attending the lounge. The signed guitars will be auctioned off and proceeds will go to charity.

Click here to view the embedded video.

MF Liqueur kept the party going with a new, sexy cocktail for celebrity guests.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Based in Paris, Lotty Dotty, an American Company, gifted t-shirts with a screen-printed doll, in which one can change her outfit.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Robert Graham gifted fabulous men’s apparel from the X Collection and Freshly Laundered.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Fanny Wang Headphone Co., named one of Mashable’s “5 Favorite Gadgets so Far this Year” (2011), gifted premium headphones that merge high fashion and technological expertise. The On Ear Wang headphones, featured a four-way noise canceling solution and custom-paired titanium-plate drivers, are tuned to deliver natural, thumping bass with crystal clear mids and highs that compliment anything from urban hip hop to light rock in the highest caliber of sound.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Etón Corporation gifted their sleek, easy to use, battery extender for cellphones, for power on the go.

Click here to view the embedded video.

EARloomz, gifted their stylish headphones combined with Bluetooth Technology. Ergo gifted men’s and women’s tshirts and natural progression denim.

Click here to view the embedded video.

In addition to gift sponsors, food and drink sponsors included bar sponsor, Adult Chocolate Milk with their premium pour-and-serve vodka-based cocktail

Click here to view the embedded video.

SUSHIPOPPER which provided delicious sushi in a portable device with fresh, pre-sliced sushi that is pushed up from the bottom and eaten from the top.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Many celebrities also enjoyed My Pillow Inc., which manufactures and markets one of the few patented pillows exclusively made in the USA, providing the most comfortable, adjustable and healthiest pillows ever.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Delicious gourmet cupcakes with no artificial flavoring and shortening known for their pull-apart cupcake cakes were on hand from Polkatots Cupcakes.

Many celebrities like Kyle and Chandler Massey and Galen Gering enjoyed the slip on temporary tattoos sleeves that gave a realistic looking tattoo in an instant by Priceco Australia - Temporary Tattoo Sleeves.

NYX Cosmetics, professional makeup line known to top makeup artists, celebrities and style insiders around the world, had a makeup artist on hand for touch ups and also gifted makeup, including the Trio Eyeshadow in Rock and Roll, Slide on Pencil in Gun Metal, Propel My Eyes Mascara, Pump It Up Lip Plumper in Scarlett and Advanced Salon Formula Nail Polish in Black.

Click here to view the embedded video.

The best beanies and hoodies in the game were provided by Discrete Headwear.

O.N.E Coconut Water provided refreshing drinks at the bar.

The Shave of Beverly Hills – presented $200 gift certificates for services including haircuts, shaves, facials and manicures.

Rullingnet gifted a VINCI Touchscreen Tablet that is designed with a child’s safety in mind and came pre-loaded with progressive learning apps, including VINCI Games, VINCI Story Books and VINCI Music Videos, which are designed around VINCI Early Learning Objectives.

The indiExhibit provide items including jewelry, bath and body products, candles, accessories and more. This non-profit artisan community provides artists and crafters from around the world the chance to further promote their brand while participating in a supportive creative environment.

Chappy and Bailey, LLC gifted their dog sweaters made from 100% Italian Cashmere

Martin Guitar gifted guitar strings.

For more information to to www.GBKProductions.com

The exclusive gifting lounges GBK produces are platforms for celebrity, charities and businesses to come together for fun, support, promotion and a lot of great swag. The “Rock N’ Royalty-themed Gift Lounge at the SLS Hotel also honored the nominees and presenters and other distinguished musical talent for the 2011 American Music Awards.

Many actors and Hollywood personalities such as Twilight’s Bronson Pelletier, Brooke Hogan, Mike, “The Situation,” Sorrentino, ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons, Taio Cruz, Javier Colon of NBC’s “The Voice”, Chaka Khan, Melanie Amaro and Stereo Hogzz of FOX’s “The X-Factor,” “Days of our Lives’” Galen Gering, David Banner, Lil Jon, Skylar Grey and more were onhand for the celebration.

In addition to the myriad of celebrities present at the lounge, GBK gave a few up and coming musicians the opportunity to perform. The performing musicians included the GBK house band, FREQUENCY 5, pop-funk singer DeQn Sue, Angelyna Martinez, Paul Nagi, Brad Standley & The Foxflies, Stazz, JDrew and Neon Fangs. “We were fortunate to have many talented musicians and celebrities support the charities on site,” Gavin Keilly, GBK CEO said.

The charities at the GBK “Rock N’ Royalty” Lounge included:

Cuddly Bags – created by 10 year old J’Rose, which provides comfort items to children entering the foster care system. Cuddly Bags are filled with comfort items for kids who are taken from their homes with little or no belongings. The bags are intended to give the kids “something to hold on to” and give them comfort during their difficult time and transition into foster care. For more information about Cuddly Bags visit – www.facebook.com/cuddlybags, Click here to see her Youtube Channel for J’Rose’s music…

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“Pushing the limits of art, compassion, and healing,” Drawing Hope International uses visual art to join thousands of sexual assault survivors from every state in the U.S. and 150 other countries into a healing community which supports survivors to connect with their own strength, see their beauty and embrace their freedom. For more information about Drawing Hope International visit – www.pointswithpurpose.com

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Also at the lounge was the Art of Peace Charitable Trust, which advocates for weapons reduction in the United States. Displayed was the beautiful angel that was crafted  from melted down guns and nuclear missle casings! They gifted a limited edition California Peace Angel print, signed by the artist Lin Evola. This print represents the hope for a violence-free future. For more information about the Art of Peace Charitable Trust visit – www.AOPCT.com

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Two Degrees Food, dedicated to helping the starving children of the world at the GBK Rock N’ Royalty Gifting Lounge for the 2011 American Music. This is an altruistic company with a solid, workable plan to save starving children in Africa and Haiti. For more info, go to: www.Twodegreesfood.com, and the charity that distributes food donated by Two Degrees, www.ActionAgainstHunger.org

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Click here to check out all the great brands and businesses that gifted the stars at the GBK “Rock N’ Royalty-themed Gift Lounge at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills.

GBK is the recipient of multiple BizBash Awards for “Best Gift Bag,” and will be producing gifting suites in honor of the following upcoming award shows: Golden Globes, the DirecTV’s Beach Bowl during Super Bowl Weekend and the Academy Awards.

GBK, formerly GBK Productions, is a luxury lifestyle gifting and special events company, specializing in entertainment marketing integration. Formed in 2000 by Gavin Keilly, the company’s Founder and CEO, GBK consists of five divisions: GBK Celebrity Gifting, GBK Special Events, GBK Weddings, GBK Charitable Consulting and GBK Marketing/Public Relations. Widely known in the entertainment industry for bringing that little extra something into the Gifting Lounge environment, GBK offers its clients a full range of marketing services. For more information on Gavin B. Keilly (CEO), Carla Domen (VP) or GBK, please go to gbkproductions.com