She's a LLady: Courtney Escanio

When did you first get involved with Ladies Lotto?

Actually a friend of mine, Linda Lovemade, introduced me. She and I had a few conversations about the various hustles we had going. From that she recommend that I join. I was hesitant at first, because there is no official SF chapter. I ended up approaching Natalie to help sponsor some iDR (itsdesignrelated.com) events and we worked it out. I was kinda unofficially in. I guess 'cause at that time I hadn't applied for membership. It was out of order but thats what happens when the hustle doesn't stop.

Courtney loves Basquiat

You got a degree in Graphic Design and got to work for Apple! How did you get that opportunity and how awesome was that experience?

I got the contact through a friend of mine in college who interned there. I'd never met him before that, but he really helped out. He helped a hungry student get her first gig and her first taste of the corporate life. It was a pretty awesome experience. They don't know it, but my packaging team had tremendous influence on me. From working with teams, how I work (process), vendors, designing concepts into different mediums, to fun stuff like photo shoots; all of it was intense and immense. I had a mentor and I look back at the patience he had to guide me, I can't thank him enough. Besides the great talent everywhere, everyone was really forward-thinking. To be surrounded by that was awesome, as well.

What area of graphic design do you specialize in, and what kinds of projects do you enjoy most? What inspires you?

Well traditionally, I'm in print graphics but nowadays I'm in fashion. I didn't really expect myself to be in this position but I roll with it. The projects I enjoy the most probably are the ones that involves a lot of strategy, planning, and conception. I mean, its not just about slapping graphics into things. It's creating an experience for the future user or consumer. I want that experience to be one to remember.

The legendary Gloria Steinem inspires Courtney

What inspires you?

Honestly, the good people around me. From the creative and talented people, to the people I love. Also visiting retail stores, visiting design studios, and vacationing. Sounds odd huh? Well to me, I like to observe behaviors and cultures.

Ladylike x Adapt Hoodie

Currently, you're freelancing. Would you like to get back into working for an agency or do you enjoy doing your own thing?

I am freelancing at a large corporation, designing for Fatlace/Ladylike, and growing my little side gigs as well. I wouldn't mind getting back into working for an agency, but at the moment I'm enjoying the flexibility of freelancing.

To add to that, would you like to have your own graphic design company?

Sure! The sky is the limit right? ; )

You've also done work for Sephora, Clinique, and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia. What projects/campaign are you most proud of?

Well for Clinique, it was this jar I did. I've done package designs but none that involves the container that holds the product so it involved a bit more industrial design. It was a learning curve. So anything that is challenging is the most rewarding projects for me. For Sephora, I worked on the Holiday campaign and this was before recession. It was all about glitter, glam, and luxury. We went over the top with specialty signage, finishing and graphics. I look into Sephora now and can see the economy effect the in-store experience.

Do you have any other interests or talents other than your career?

I love working out! I grew up in dance and cheer from the age of 7, so being active is important to me. People think just because I'm in design, I wear designer names. If you catch me during the week, I'm in my North Face fleece, yoga pants, and Nikes! I love Whole Foods and I love to eat out. I guess I'm pretty much your typical Cali girl. Talents? I can roll my "R"s, whaaaaat?!!

Lastly, what do you think this year will hold for you?

This year is all about positivity (for me at least). Think it. Say it. Be it. What unfolds this year will be growth personally and professionally. I'm designing for Ladylike and I know that's gonna rock because we have a bunch of great gals on the team, so be on the look out! And more Ladies Lotto gigs in SF...

She's a Llady: Jill Meisner

How did you become associated with Ladies Lotto? What kind of experiences have you had? I’ve been a Ladies Lotto member since, I believe, the very beginning. It’s been such a great resource over the years for work and fun. It’s also been a source of good laughs, while bringing much needed attention to various causes. The Lladies involved in the group are some of the most amazing, creative and smart women I’ve met. I think it’s funny when I’m having a long conversation with someone and we realize that we know each other from LL. It happens much more often than not.

How did you get your start doing PR and what attracted you to that line of work?

I originally moved to New York to be a writer and get my Masters degree in Journalism at NYU. I had been interning at Paper magazine, doing anything from running errands to writing Daily Tips for the website and interviewing celebrities for online features, when I decided I loved media, but I wanted to be on the other end. I was out for a birthday dinner, grilling a friend about the PR agency she was working for and jokingly asked if they had any openings. She asked me to send her my resume, and a few weeks later I had a 3-month internship there at The Rosen Group. Those 3-months really kicked my ass and gave me a great introduction to PR. I was then promoted to an Account Executive. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support and guidance of the people at that agency. I had the opportunity to plan events all over the country, work on segments for TV including Good Morning America, where I got to meet Diane Sawyer – my favorite lady in the entire world, and I placed stories in just about every major newspaper and news channel in the US. PR became the only thing I was interested in career-wise – I loved setting a goal for a client and reaching it, and the feeling when I’ve secured a really amazing story. It never gets old.

You've had a variety of positions in PR from Triple Five Soul to co-founding a boutique marketing agency in New York. What excites you about doing public relations?

It really is a constant learning process. Knowing the right angle to pitch a story, knowing how to not annoy the media, figuring out what works and what doesn’t for various publications, etc. Sometimes when I start working with a certain client, or a new story, I may think it’s going to go one way and it turns out to have a completely different result. Sometimes the things you think will be the easiest to pitch really end up taking the most work. And as I said before, the excitement of setting out to get a really big story and nabbing it, is just great. In the past few years, I’ve discovered a whole new side to PR developing strategy and working to implement plans internationally. Now, my goal is to take the development and pitching side, and marry those as I continue in my career.

Everyone looks at PR (especially fashion PR) as being glamorous and chock full of celebrities and perks. Is that the real deal?

Well, for some people it definitely can be. It really depends on the type of PR you do. If it’s celebrity PR – yeah, you’re definitely going to be around celebrities all the time. I never really wanted that for myself. There’s a lot of personality in celebrity and music PR, and my love for clothes and cool products and ideas took over. But even being in fashion PR, I was always working to get our stuff on celebrities, musicians and trendsetters. It’s fun to have them come through the showroom. Some are really grateful, some…not so much. But more often than not, they’re really great about the whole thing. Perks – I always tried to make it a give and take. If I’m asking for something from someone, I want to return the favor in some way if I can. Getting invited to parties and events is always nice, and sometimes there’s a really great gift bag! Fashion PR is really great for this…samples are everywhere and if you’re in the right place at the right time…they’re pretty available. I’ve gotten to travel a lot, had access to some really great showrooms, see bands before they got big, been on the set of and worked on some unbelievable photoshoots…so I would say the perks are definitely a plus. Also, and I know publicists are stereotyped as some of the biggest phonies, but I’ve met some of the greatest and most genuine friends through my various jobs. I don’t agree with it at all.

You were a Global Sporstwear Communications Manager for Nike at an amazing time during the Beijing Olympics. How awesome was it to be a part of that?

The amazing part was working on the launch of the Nike Sportswear category – Nike’s biggest launch in its 37-year history. There was a lot of pressure and a lot of expectations. We put together a series of globally relevant events, beginning in April in Portland, Beijing in May, and finally culminating in the flagship store launch in New York in August. Being in China four months before the Olympics was pretty cool – the whole city was in transition to get ready. The hardest thing was trying to make sure the artists, Nike friends, and media we were flying over had a Visa! The Visa laws changed daily, and I think I was still helping to procure these up to the minute I walked on the plane. Working with the media on events to get the Sportswear story out there was pretty intense. I was working with a great team inside Nike, but the level of creativity from the artists, athletes and innovators from outside the company was unlike anything I’ve experienced before. I wasn’t in Beijing for the Olympics as Sportswear was launching the flagship store in NY, along with eight temporary retail locations throughout the world, so it was a very busy time. But watching the Olympics and seeing all of the athletes wearing Nike Sportswear to and from the court/pool/field/mat was pretty exciting.

You left NYC and the agency you helped found (Pitch Control Public Relations) for greener pastures (literally) in Portland, Oregon when you started at Nike. How did you land that opportunity, and how was the transition from being the boss, to having people above you again?

Well, there definitely is more “green” out here in Portland! I love being so close to the mountains – hiking and river rafting in the summer, snowboarding in the winter – there’s always something to do. But there’s so many pro’s to both Portland and New York, I can’t ever decide which is better. It was a hard decision to leave Pitch Control and New York. Sarah Cirkiel, my partner at PCPR, and I worked so hard to build the company but it was really a personal decision for me and had nothing to do with my career. I just really needed a break from New York, and had always thought about living on the West Coast, although I knew LA wasn’t the right place. In high school, I lived in Israel for a while with a bunch of people from Seattle and they always made the Pacific Northwest sound amazing. Sarah and I had sat down and talked about the changes I needed and I looked into moving out to the PNW. Thankfully, after I made the decision to head to Portland or Seattle, a writer friend of mine recommended the position at Nike. Surprisingly enough, I felt the team at Nike was a pretty great environment. There are definitely some frustrations that come with working at a large company, but all in all, I felt my ideas were well listened to and supported. Being inhouse is a much different lifestyle than being at an agency. The hardest thing to get used to was having to get to the office at 7:30am (in order to speak to Europe), and being able to go home before 9pm!

You parted ways with Nike in May. What area would you like to conquer next? Will you stay in public relations? Will you stay out west?

I have a few things in the pipeline that I’m not totally comfortable announcing just yet. But stay tuned in the next few weeks! I’ll be making some announcements. As for Portland, I love it here and a part of me will always want to make this a home. But it looks like the East Coast is calling my name once again. Again, more on that later….

What other projects or hobbies are you into aside from your career? Any hidden/untapped talents?

Hidden talents – I’d like to think it’s baking and cooking. I’m getting better at both, but my specialty is this no-bake cake I make from scratch. If LL has a potluck, I’ll make it for all of you. People kind of freak out about it. But since I’ve gone Vegan, cooking and baking are becoming more of a regular thing. I’m no longer burning rice and overcooking my vegetables, which is great. I made some Vegan tuna fish the other night that turned out amazing. I never even liked regular tuna fish. The no-bake cake isn’t Vegan, but I’ll make it for you guys anyway. Hobbies – I love riding my bike. That’s the only down side to living in Portland. Even though we’re supposedly the most bike-friendly city…the rain makes it hard to look good when you ride your bike everywhere. Since moving out here, I’ve discovered Cyclocross. It’s the best way to spend a rainy weekend. Standing out in the rain, cheering others on, and probably drinking way too much beer. A Cyclocross race is the only acceptable place for a cowbell, I believe.

She's a LLady: Claudia Lake

How did you link up with Ladies Lotto and has it been an asset to you?

I had heard of Ladies Lotto (LL) from several sources but my friend and Ladies Lotto member, photographer Carissa Pelleteri, took me to my first meeting. I loved it! I was thrilled and humbled by the amount of talent that was in the room. The networking aspect of Ladies Lotto is key in my line of work. I've met some fantastic ladies whom I've built good relationships with, all thanks to LL...

You started out studying Fine Arts at both the Fashion Institute of Technology and the Parsons School of Design in New York. How did you go from this to makeup artistry?

The transition was quite easy actually! There are a lot of makeup artists who have Fine Arts degrees. Makeup artistry requires the artist to know the human facial structure, it's basic shape and most of all you need to know all about color and lighting. While I was in school, I was fascinated by the human form. I never really wore make-up but I had done several pieces in which I used a live models in full body paint. This led to taking photos and being asked by photographer friends to collaborate on projects. So at first, most of my photos the models looked like weird peacocks, birds and whatnot. Looking back it was fun, but not refined at all. Just raw creativity.

I also began to play with different paints and foundations and realized I really liked working on a three dimensional form. I love humans. We are very beautiful creatures. I was hooked, so once I made up my mind that I wanted to pursue it as a career, I went to the biggest agency I could find and said: "I don't know who the biggest and best make up artist you have on your roster, but whomever that is I want to assist even if it's free." I was clueless about fashion. But this move led me to working for the very best artist. Namely Pat McGrath, Dick Page, and the late Kevin Aucoin. I learned a lot and made no money, but it was all worth it...

Did the painterly aspects of Fine Art help you in your current profession? I'm sure it was a huge leg-up to have a basis of mixing colors and different color palettes in general.

Oh indeed!!! I don't think I would have followed this path if I didn't know all about color. I can't wing anything. I am a perfectionist!

What's the most fun about what you do?

I love meeting new people, traveling all over the world and getting paid for it. It's fantastic.

Are there any celebrities that you're really hankering to work with (and on lol)?

You know, I would love to get my hands on is Naomi Watts. I love Jessica Alba too. Hmmm I dunno, I would do makeup on anyone who allows me to. I just like to paint faces... lol.

Working with folks such as Minka Kelly, Sia, Gabrielle Union, and Terry Richardson are great for keeping you busy work-wise, but what styles of makeup appeal to you personally? Do you do personal shoots that express a more artistic/less mainstream style of makeup?

I personally love the very clean, natural look. And this believe it or not is the hardest thing to do. It's easy to pile it on, but if I can make someone look like they have perfect skin, and if the focus is on the subject rather than the makeup itself I am happy. However, when I get inspired and if the team is the right one. Nothing beats an avant garde shoot. Bring on the wigs, the lashes and the body glitter (I am a drag queen at heart). From Victorian to a 60's look, I love it all!!!

Do you still enjoy doing art (other than makeup)? What artists (music, makeup or otherwise) and photographers are you inspired by?

Drawing and photography are major passions of mine. I am an image junkie. When I close my eyes, it's like a collage of photos, drawings and images I've absorbed throughout the day. Basically it's sensory overload. But it works because it keeps me creative. I always slow down and look at the small things. You never know where inspiration will come from.

On a more practical note, what would you say are five essentials in any LLady's everyday makeup bag?

A good moisturizer and lip balm with an SPF to start with a nice base and protect the skin from the elements is a must. But after that the goodies should be:

1. Tinted Moisturizer or foundation with an SPF for protection and to create an even tone.

2. A good compact ( pressed )powder for touch ups on the go

3. If you have trouble spots like dark circles under your eyes or blotchy patches of skin, you will also want to have a concealer.

4. Mascara

5. Eyeliner pencil (black or brown), in case you have to go out after work and you want to look more done up, nothing like a sexy smudgy eyeliner to take you from day to night.

Do you have any favorite makeup brands, and which would you say cater to the largest number of skin tones?

I love love love Mally Roncal's line. She's got soooooo many goodies. I want the entire line. Armani because they have the most amazing foundation. Nars for all the fun eyeshadow colors and Orgasm blush is my favorite. You can't beat L'oreal and Maybelline for mascaras and eye pencils. Makeup should be fun and fun doesn't always have to cost an arm and leg...

Where would you like to take your career in 2010? More runway makeup, perhaps?

Runway is always fun and I do love designing the looks for shows, so more of that for sure. I would love to be a spokesperson for a brand. More TV related things would be great, such as on-camera makeovers and that sort of fun stuff. Also I have my blog www.bestthingtoday.com which I hope will lead to being a guest beauty editor. I have the best agent (Jim Indorato at Contact NYC) in the world so I am sure whatever I do will be amazing! For 2010, I just want to have fun and make every woman I touch beautiful ;-)

See Claudia's work on her site: www.claudialake.com

She's a LLady: Samantha Edwards

How long have you been a Ladies Lotto member and what sort of experience has it been for you?

I've been a member of Ladies Lotto for about a year and a half now. My first event was Camella Ehlke talking at I Heart. It was brilliant! I'd been to networking type groups before and they were always either really yawn-worthy and stuffy or really cliquey. It was nice to be in a room full of cool, creative young women. Not a bitch in sight.

You got your start when you offered your services to a company whose work, in your opinion, was "badly designed". You were only 18 years old! Did you really have that confidence or were you doing what you felt was needed to get your foot in the door?

At the time I was a cocky 18-year-old design student with nothing to lose, so I had that confidence to call them out on their design. In all honesty, I didn't really think my tactics would work; but when they offered me a job that was when it stuck me - wow - now it's REALLY on. My boss at the time (Anthony Stevens) taught me a lot about business BUT gave me hell for the first few months. I guess it was the old "break 'em down, build 'em up" method.

When did you first realize that marketing and branding was the profession for you?

When I was at KW Marketing, Anthony asked me and another junior designer to do "more than just design fliers and posters." He owned a nightclub and wanted something new, so asked us to brand Friday and Saturday nights and carry them all the way through: getting liquor sponsors, booking DJs, finding talent in addition to marketing the events (street team alert!) and designing the artwork. We put on some of the most successful events in Manchester. Right there and then, I knew that this was exactly what I wanted to do. Ahhhh, misty-eyed memories!

Making a move to a foreign country is tough in itself. How did you get yourself started once you'd moved to New York?

My only other option was London and I definitely didn't want to start my career there...something about the old North/South divide in Britain. It was right after 9/11 and pretty much nobody was hiring, but I was determined. I drew up a list of twenty companies I wanted to work for, prepared my portfolio and then flew out here (a 21st birthday gift from my mum - thanks mum! ha). My plan was to cold call them all and that's what I did. I got the same response over and over: "We're not hiring, it's a recession, there are no positions available, etc. etc?" I got to SKAGGS (lucky 13?) and they asked me what I was selling! I was like "NOTHING! I just really like your work and would love to work for you." Of course, they gave me the ol' "We're not hiring" speech. So I offered to prove to them that I was worthy of hiring by working for free for the summer. I dropped off my portfolio and within and hour they called me back to make me an offer. The rest, as they say, is history... I'm now Senior Associate and Creative Director at SKAGGS in addition to running my own company. It's tough but I wouldn't have it any other way.

Is your industry difficult for women (especially women of color) to make their mark? What odds have you come up against since you started your company GIFTD?

I've never really had any problems in terms of my color. I guess sometimes people are surprised when they first walk into a meeting and see me. I'd been speaking with a client for over six months on the phone and via email and when we finally met in person the look on his face was priceless! He had assumed I was white because of my British accent. But for me, it's never been negative. If anything, it's been a positive. Working with corporate, gray-haired old-school clients it's been mentioned on several occasions that having a young (black) woman's perspective is a breath of fresh air.

The majority of my clients are men but I've always managed to my hold my own among the "boys." Anyone in the ad/creative/design industry will tell you that men still outnumber women. That was the case even in my college days and I learned pretty early on how to deal/handle my own business. Side note: I recently read Nina Di Sesa's book, Seducing The Boys Club...it's a little old school, but she has does have some great takeaway points, seduction and manipulation being one of them.

What separates you from the rest of the pack? What does a client get from GIFTD that they won't get anywhere else?

Having worked with larger corporate brands for several years, GIFTD is able to bring the large scale level of professionalism, strategy, and creative insight to smaller brands and companies. It also works the other way around, in terms of helping the bigger companies understand and appreciate the value of "thinking small." We're really good at helping smaller-sized companies to establish themselves in the market and helping them to develop a strong position from a visual and strategic standpoint.


You've done so much in the years since you first began your career. What are you most proud of?

Wow... god, that's a tough one. I've honestly loved all of the projects I've worked on. At SKAGGS my proudest moment was the strategic work and naming for Totology and creative direction on the TOTO Water Bottle ad campaign. At GIFTD it was the ATC Miami Store branding and retail store design I teamed up with Wes at Confid3ntial to bring it all to life and the ATC crew (Mark, Daailo and DT) were just absolutely brilliant to work with. They gave so much creative freedom. Yes, we bumped heads a few times but it was totally worth it! Seeing and hearing people's reaction to the store design still gives me goosebumps.

GIFTD has handled a wide range of projects from e-marketing for luxury brands, the branding and retail design for ATC Miami, creative direction and design for the latest Devin the Dude album, to most recently the Mountain Dew Green Label Art Gallery space at 29 Greene St.

Yes, definitely varied but I wouldn't change it for all the tea in China.

Well, after all of that, what's up next for GIFTD?

Ooooooooh I don't know if I can say. I'm working with brand guru Matty Ho at Subculture Conglomerate on something totally different and also a few other things that I can't really talk about, although I'm DYING to. That aside, I'm concentrating on world wide domination and keeping the hustle alive! Can I also point out that although it may seem like I'm a one woman force to be reckoned with there's noway on Earth it would be possible, without the support of my loved ones and NYC network of ridiculously talented people Rachel, Matty, Mark, Wes, Catherine and of course Natalie Blacker (Ladies Lotto Founder), who I think really does inspire everyone she meets to get their shit together (in a holistic way of course) ;)

Find out more about Samantha and GIFTD at Linkedin and on her blog at www.thegiftd.com/blog

She's A LLady: Kizzy-Kay Graham

How did you get involved with Ladies Lotto?

I became involved through LL member Rachel Hill, about 2 years ago. She forwarded information about Ladies Lotto to a select few people who she thought would great additions to the organization. I was really active from the beginning and it's been an amazing experience so far. I've established some great networking connections and made life-long friends. It's also been useful to help further the LIFEbeat cause.

What's your background and how did you get involved with LIFEbeat?

I attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts as an Art Major. I then went to NYU as a film major. I began volunteering at LIFEbeat during college. After graduation, I worked at a dot com called Bolt.com, which was actually one of the first networking sites. Later on, while working at an accounting firm, I became burnt out and I quit. I realized that the corporate suit and tie thing just wasn't me. I did temporary work for a lot of companies like Coty, which I really enjoyed and I was with a merchandising company for a bit. But LIFEbeat and getting out the awareness about HIV and safer sex was something that I was still really passionate about. The opportunity to work with them arose again, and I took it.

LIFEbeat had a really strong presence in the 90's, with Salt N' Pepa ("Let's Talk About AIDS") and awareness about safer sex being at an all-time high. What's going on with LIFEbeat these days?

Right now, our focus is re-branding and getting back in touch with young people. Our thing has always been to partner with the music industry and recording artists in order to get the message across in a way that is relevant to the younger generations. We do most of our outreach at music venues. But with the music industry suffering the way it is and hip-hop artists not doing as well, live performances aren't as frequent. So, in addition to our tried and true methods, we're partnering with organizations that also have a focus on youth.

What happened to cause the shift in thinking and awareness in the country in just 10 or 12 years?

Ground was lost due to the Bush administration pushing abstinence only sex education. The main misconception is that we are pushing against abstinence and that we're promoting sex. Clearly abstaining is the only way to be completely protected (as far as sex is concerned). We just want people to be aware of their choices in how to protect themselves if they choose to have sex. Whether it's handing out condoms or reminding people of the importance of regular testing, we feel that that part of sex education is still necessary beyond simply telling people to abstain.

What kinds of outreach do you do at these venues and what kind of response do you get?

We typically set up a spot to speak to youths and their parents about how to be as safe as they can if they choose to be sexually active. The most important thing is that previously, the face of HIV/AIDS was gay white men, but now we need to include everyone. Not everyone is thrilled with our efforts, but the vast majority of people are positive in their reactions. We always have the most unexpected people share stories about family members who were affected by HIV/AIDS. It's an issue that has touched a lot of people and we're committed to spreading as much information to as much of the public as we can.

Other than the obvious, what else do you feel needs to be communicated to people so that the message stays with them?

Self-esteem should be discussed in conjunction with sex education. It's not simply about young people dealing with pressure to be sexually active. There are men and women in relationships with someone who they believe to be monogamous, or in situations where someone has cheated and measures aren't being to taken to ensure safety after this has happened. The take-home message is don't be afraid to express yourself or protect yourself. HIV/AIDS isn't selective. It's not a "gay persons disease". Anyone can be affected.

Do you want to stay at LIFEbeat or do you want to branch out to other outlets?

I'm really happy where I am. I'm passionate about this issue and I think this a great way to raise awareness to black and brown communities about HIV/AIDS. It's one of the most important issues in the world, and I'm committed to doing my part to keep the spotlight on prevention.

Aside from Ladies Lotto & LIFEbeat, what else are you involved in?

I've been doing marketing and development with former NYC Ladies Lotto organizer Sarah Pace for her catering company Rabbit Mafia. It's fun to be getting back into development and market research. In regards to Ladies Lotto, I blog under the handle "grahamatical", assist members with issues, wrangle volunteers and then some.

For more information or to become involved, visit http://www.lifebeat.org

She's A LLADY: Stacy Horne

How long have you been a Ladies Lotto member and how has it benefited you?

I've only been a member for about 5 months. It's been a great resource for finding talent. I've used it to hook up with a web designer, and it's been great for finding everything from freelance talent to an apartment.

Was show production what you set put to do, or did you have something else in mind and how did you get your start?

Well, I didn't have show production as specific goal, but I knew pretty early on that I wanted to be involved in music. As a student at the University of Massachusetts, I worked in show production as an extracurricular activity. I also interned at a booking agency. Out of college, I worked for an artist management company. From there, one opportunity after another became available and here I am 14 years later. I feel really lucky to have known what area I wanted to be involved in. I love what I do and it's a lot of fun.

How did you become involved with Noise Pop Industries?

I knew Jordan Kurland and I felt that it was time for a break from New York City. I got in touch and it was sort of a right place, right time situation. It was supposed to be a temporary thing, but I've been here for 4 years doing Noise Pop and Treasure Island.

Since you know so well what goes into creating a show, do you still enjoy going to them?

Honestly, I don't enjoy festivals unless I have VIP access (laughs). As for my own productions, I DO like to get into the crowd and see how everything has come together. I'm usually running around, and making sure that things run smoothly, but I have to remind myself to stop and enjoy the music and the fruits of my labor. I'm really lucky in that I get to see firsthand, how much the people enjoy what we've done. It's really very rewarding.

You've primarily done festivals, but would you ever want to produce a large scale tour?

Actually, I have done tours before. I produced the Nintendo Fusion Tour, which involved quite a few big-name acts and hit a lot of cities. Corporate event planning isn't the most fun aspect of the job, but I was really proud of the end results.

You're producing a totally insane, other-worldly festival, and you get to choose 6 acts, dead, alive, together, or defunct to perform. Who's in the lineup?

Led Zeppelin, Bob Marley, Bruce Springsteen, pj harvey, Janis Joplin, and The Kinks

You covered a lot of ground career-wise. Where else would you like to take things?

I'm really happy where I am. I'm grateful to have work, and work that I enjoy. Ultimately I'd like to do bigger, televised events, half-time shows, and things of that nature. It would be great to see my work reach a broader audience.

She's A LLADY: Julia Failey

How long have you been a Ladies Lotto member and has it had a positive affect on what you're doing?

Betsey McLain suggested that I get involved with Ladies Lotto a little over a year ago. I think LL provides a supportive network professionals and entrepreneurs who are proactive in the community. I’ve become friends with some stylish, sophisticated women and discussed ideas for future initiatives and events to grow the Chicago network.

While I'm sure you had to learn the craft, what made you want to go the official route and study gemology?

I think it’s important to understand all aspects of jewelry if you’re working in the industry. I studied gemology and diamond grading so that I could identify and authenticate diamonds and colored stones. While this may not apply to my current collections, customer referrals have made custom work a growing part of my business. Knowledge is key in servicing my custom order clients in creating the personal piece they envision that’s priced within their budget.

Your pieces are inspired by nature and are very delicate, sweet and feminine. Do you think this will always be your aesthetic or do you see yourself moving in another direction?

I think this style best fits the brand I’m trying to create with Julia Failey jewelry. Custom orders present exciting creative challenges and give me an opportunity to deviate from the current aesthetic in my line.

You offer a unique service where you work in conjunction with brides to design special pieces for their bridesmaids. That's an awesome and thoughtful idea. Why did you decide to add it to your services?

I love having the opportunity to work with clients in creating memorable gifts for a special occasion. I’ve worked with boyfriends in creating Engagement Rings, provided brides with jewelry for bridesmaids, and designed wedding sets for fiancés. I recently expanded into cuff links, which make great groomsmen gifts!

There's been a huge push recently for all things eco-friendly, but this was an important issue to you from the beginning. Where did that come from?

My grandmother was my fashion muse and model environmental philanthropist. She once wrote me ‘My father felt it was important to find enjoyment in little things and I try to remember his view.’ My grandmother opened my eyes to the beauty in all things great and small, and I hope to carry her legacy through my work.

Those who know me well can attest to the fact that I’ve always been passionate about art and the environment. As a youngster, I spent most of my time outside—climbing trees, building forts, capturing ‘glow bugs’ and, on occasion (and with the best intentions), building a shoebox nest to nurture a fallen bird back to health. My pursuits in art/fashion were spawned when I started integrating pop art elements (splatter paint on Keds was all the rage) and found objects into clothing and jewelry. Many years have passed, but those developmental years set the stage.

To add to that, tell us about some of the causes and organizations that you support.

I am active within organizations that share my commitment to the environment, and I serve on the Executive Committee of the Auxiliary Board at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Chicago. 10% of every sale in our Butterfly Collection goes to The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, inspiring people to learn about and care for nature and the environment.

I partnered with MANuary by creating customized cufflinks to benefit the Prostate Cancer Foundation. 100 percent of the net proceeds from the sale of these cufflinks goes directly to the cause. Visit my website to read the story on how my friends, Tom Murphy and Ryan Hutto, started and inspired MANuary.

I am donating 20% of Lotus Flower Collection in Rose sales to Breast Cancer Network of Strength®, an organization dedicated to ensuring no one faces breast cancer alone. Proceeds from sales will be made throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month to help increase awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention and cure. You may learn more on my blog.

What do you hope to accomplish with your jewelry and your environmental efforts?

My jewelry intends to remind us of the subtle beauty that surrounds us and raise awareness of our connections to our environment. I challenge myself to find unique and intriguing ways to reflect intricate details and movements in nature in my designs. My concern for the preservation of our natural resources is reflected in my designs, choice of materials and sustainable business practices. I create ‘green’ or ‘eco-friendly’ jewelry because environmental appreciation is integrated in my beliefs and business mission.

For more info, please visit: http://www.juliafailey.com

She's A LLADY: DJ Lady Sha

1) How long have you been a Ladies Lotto member and how has it benefited you?

I've been in LL for a few years now and feel privileged to be apart of a network of women at the head of their industries. I love the company I keep when I get my daily digest and read what all the ladies are up to. I've partnered with several of the ladies in their events or in having them sponsor my events. Also, I love landing in a city and linking with a Ladies Lotto member that noticed my travels online. It's an instant comfort zone in new cities.

2) Being raised in LA, you were surrounded by other cultures and music. Did your parents take issue with your musical tastes, or did they embrace it?

My musical tastes were always my own... listened to in the privacy of my bedroom, headphones, or car (once I could drive). My parents left my taste in music alone. My dad listens to KCRW all day and my mom is a 80's & 90's pop lover.... I now love dropping some of the jams I'd hear on the radio stations they used to play.

3) Music is such a male dominated industry and it's hard for ladies to get props, particularly turntablists. What made you want to take that on?

I was always the girl that wanted to do the hobbies exclusive to boys. It began with guitar, then surfing, water polo, & finally DJ-ing. With DJ-ing, it satisfied my passion to pursue music while also being an immediate source of income. Ignoring the boys-club aura of it, I broke right into the professional DJ circuit after graduating from CAL. Ambition & hunger can make one circumnavigate any static.

4) How did you get your start DJ'ing?

I was a sophomore at Berkeley studying pre-med & anthropology while also taking on way too many extra-curriculars for my own good. My neighbor needed students to get funding for his DJ course on campus and begged me to enroll. I begrudgingly joined the course and within 2 weeks bought my own turntables & my path in life was drastically changed forever.

5) What DJ's (male or female) do you respect and who were you inspired by?

I have always been inspired by DJ Valida who holds the role of a female DJ down with such beautiful energy & warmth. Being a filmmaker, singer, model, & world traveler, she also reminds me it's possible to juggle many hats in life gracefully and never limit yourself. She was actually one of the first people that told me I should join Ladies Lotto.

DJ AM has been an inspiration to me not only in his talent as an incredible DJ, but as a human. At his memorial, one of his best friends said that AM used to advise his managers in business, "Be fair" and "Make sure our side of the street is clean." Additionally, many people had stories of how AM had helped them stay on their path of sobriety. As a DJ, he paved the way for people in our profession that play multi-genre sets to be able to someday make 20K a night & reach celebrity status unheard of before for a hip hop DJ. If I give my life's work the love, passion, dedication, and energy he gave to DJ-ing, I'll have succeeded.

6) You're the party-goer and not the DJ. What makes YOU want to move?

A DJ maintaining and building the energy of a night song to song without losing the dynamic of the beat in transitions. My favorite DJ's are ones that take me on a journey through memory lane, energetics, & vibe.

7) Which do you prefer? Spinning vinyl or digital?

Ideally, I love to spin digitally using serato with a vinyl interface on turntables. Best of both worlds.

8) The music industry has changed so vastly in the past 4 or 5 years. What do you think of the current trends in music and what do you miss?

I don't pay attention to current trends in music as much as I keep an ear out for innovative artists and those progressing the leading edge of their genres.
With music being as accessible as a simple & immediate download, there's been an increase in the amount of sounds I have to sift through to find gems, which is of course more time-consuming. I miss the feeling of buying a new album and listening to it over and over again while I pore over the cd's album art & insert.

9) To add to that, what artists are you absolutely feeling?

I could be here until next week answering that question because of the hundreds of mp3's I go through weekly. There's a fresh movement in LA's underground featuring earth shaking artists such as Rob Roy, Flying Lotus, & The Gaslamp Killer. Even if I don't fell an artist's entire repertoire, I always have a few songs every week that I cannot get enough of. This week, it happens to be Jay-Z's "Venus vs. Mars" off the new Blueprint 3 album.

10) You were already successful as a DJ, so what made you want to go a step further and start LionessLA? What do you hope to do with this venture?

LionessLA is a special events and marketing firm I founded with my business partner Aneesah Williams so that we could have the institution in place to create events we can call our own from their conception to their presentation. Instead of DJ-ing other people's events & fitting into their concept of nightlife, LionessLA is a way for us to produce events that combine our passions for quality music, live art displays, fine dining, fashion, & philanthropy. We began in 2006 with a mission to innovate Los Angeles nightlife with the LionessLA signature. With Los Angeles underway seasonally, we can now focus on collaborating with other cities around the world in addition to expanding Lioness Entertainment to take on other aspects in the music industry beyond event PR.

11) And lastly, we all know DJ's who don't seem to care about people sitting DOWN. What are your top five make-them-move, rump-shaking, no-parking-on-the-dance-floor jams of all time?

1. Get Your Freak On - Missy Elliot
2. Shorty Swing My Way - Kp & Envy
3. Shake it to the Ground - Rye Rye
4. Bucky Dun Gone - M.I.A.
5. Do My Ladies Run This Mutha - Memphis Bleek ft. Jay-Z

LionessLA online

She's A LLADY: Nina Stotler

The Ladies Lotto constituency is comprised of over one thousand key members spread across all of the major international markets. By nature and as a whole, this influential audience base is almost entirely comprised of cultural innovators.

In the true lotto fashion of support, we're choosing, at random, to promote individual women within our ranks with our bi-weekly LLADY feature. Here we have Ladies Lotto member and jewelry designer, Nina Stotler.

Who's next? Maybe you? If you're in it to win it, then your lucky number could be up!

- Natalie Blacker
Founder, Ladies Lotto

Let's start with the basics: your name, age and location.

Nina Stotler, 29, New York, NY.

How long have you been a member of Ladies Lotto? How has being a member worked out for you?

For about well over a year or so. It's been a great way to find new events and feel connected to a creative, driven community.

Your jewelry is stark and gritty, yet intricate and delicate. Where have you found inspiration while developing your aesthetic?

I grew up visiting Berlin quite a bit, and I feel I've been influenced by some of the architecture and style I witnessed there. The Bauhaus movement figured largely in my studies at Sarah Lawrence where I did large format sculptures as well as installation art. All of this research and experience has led me to my current aesthetic.

What's your favorite part of the jewelry-designing process?

I always start with materials, researching and seeking out new techniques and unusual textures. I like looking beyond normal materials. For my most recent collection I settled on things you'd find at the hardware store rather than the jewelry shop. Next season I'll be exploring even more unusual raw materials and construction, taking inspiration from medicine.

For the aspiring jewelery designers out there: how did you get where you are now? Any advice?

I began doing work for myself and friends liked it. I'd say that word of mouth is a good place to start, followed by organization and a good network of contacts. Keep the information of everyone you meet and don't be shy to tell anyone about your work. You never know who will be a connector putting you in touch with a great ally.

If you could have a secret portal to any era in time, and the ability to get clothes from that era to add to your personal wardrobe - when/where would it be?

I'd have to say the future. I'm not a vintage person anymore, although clothing from the 60's that looked futuristic would do, if I had to choose something in existence.

What are your predictions for fashion trends for the rest of 2009?

I think people will continue to invest in special pieces, while concentrating less on fast fashion or fleeting trends. Well-done basics and statement accessories will be key.

Where, or how, do you keep zen while dashing around in the city?

I don't! I'd like to have time to swim more, as that really helps me keep calm. I was a competitive synchronized swimmer as a teenager, and I feel more comfortable in the water than on land.

Any big personal plans or goals this year? How about career-wise?

Well I'm moving for the first time in 7 years, so I hope that turns out well. Looking for a place now if anyone has leads! I'd like to expand Von Kottwitz and start having pieces made from samples I create for next season. I'm also looking for more stores to carry the current collection here and abroad.

View Nina's collection at http://vonkottwitz.com/

It's Design Related San Francisco

Join It’s Design Related, Ladies Lotto SF, Made Jewelry & Papa Low Down for a night of art, design, and music in SF's most talked about restaurant/lounge/art space named Orson in the SoMa district. Top Chef MASTER’S, Elizabeth Faulkner, is this restaurant’s very own executive chef and owner. Come through for a bite to eat, the luscious drinks and support the local artists!

Friday, August 28^th

9:30 – 10:30PM: Ladies Lotto Cocktail Hour

10:30PM: Doors Open to the Public

*Raffle for creatives: 2 hour photoshoot or credit of 2 hours worth. Package includes 60 illuminous photos with light retouching. Winner will be picked at the iDR Live Artist Sumer Series. For more raffle details please visit: http://itsdesignrelated.com/featured-events/

Free for LADIES LOTTO! RSVP required: privateevents@itsdesignrelated.com

OR $5 guestlist: events@itsdesignrelated.com

LLady Interview: Saint Agnes

Hi Jenn (aka Saint Agnes)! We here at Ladies Lotto will occasionally interview a LL member and find out a little about them. Just answer the questions and we’re good to go!

Let’s get the basics on you. What is your name, age, location, and occupation? Jennifer Wannarachue aka Saint Agnes Age 32 Brooklyn, NY Creative Director, Designer, Founder of Worship Worthy.

Where did the Moniker come from? Just love the vintage feel of the name Agnes, and of course, being Worship Worthy makes you a Saint.

Awesome. How did you get to your present job and what are your favorite things about it? I started the company in 2006 as an online trend newsletter and it’s expanded into a creative services company and apparel brand. My fave things about having my own company is the flexibility I have with my work hours.

How long have you been a member of Ladies Lotto and how did you find out about the group? Been a member since 2008. Was receiving the emails but attended my first meeting with the nudge of my friend Nina from Valley.

Do you have a Ladies Lotto-related story you care to share? Ladies Lotto online group has been extremely helpful in regards to shared resources. I’ve found interns, made window signage, sponsored great events, etc all through communication on the LL group.

How did you become involved with Worship Worthy? Founder of WW, see question #3

Worship Worthy is quite an eclectic brand – what is your role within the company and what is your favorite aspect of it? I do everything- apparel design, write for the site, design logos, fliers, handle sponsorship opportunities, PR and sales for clients. I have 2 partners that are like my sounding board but no one else is involved in the day-to-day details except for me. My favorite aspect is designing the apparel since that’s been my passion since I was younger and also the field I’ve had most of my experience.

What is your prediction for the overall fashion hit of 2009? Loose fitting jeans and body conscious dresses.

Who or what inspires you? Punk and indie music, leather, metals, masks, mystery, black.

Any big personal plans or goals for 2009? How about career-wise? I have a feeling I might be receiving an engagement proposal from the love of my life this year. Career goal is to keep growing my brand through out the recession. Slow and steady.

Any other fun things you want to share with the Ladies? Worshipworthy.com is relaunching in the next couple weeks with some fun new features. Feel free to send me any press releases or things for product review to be featured on it. I’m always open to give my fellow Ladies some shine on WW if your product fits our demographic!

Thanks so much Jenn for taking the time to share all of that with us! It was lovely to e-meet you and we all loved getting to learn more about you and the fantastic Worship Worthy. xx

PS: Worship Worthy is sponsoring Lovers Rock this month including tonight's party at APT!

Meet a LLady... Sharon Clott

We here at Ladies Lotto are starting a series where we interview a LL member and find out a little about them.

Since NY Fashion Week's impact is still fresh, we felt Sharon Clott would be a most appropriate LLady to kick off the series.

☆ Let’s get the basics on you. What is your name, age, location, and occupation?

Sharon Clott
New York
Assistant Fashion Editor, NYmag.com
(New York magazine's website)

☆ Great. How did you get to your present job and what are your favorite things about it?

I started out as an intern, then a freelancer, then a market assistant, then last month I was promoted to assistant fashion editor. Really, that transition embodies the notion that hard work pays off. It was really big for me and I love the new role—working more on The Cut (our fashion blog), producing the fashion shows during Fashion Weeks (we have 24-hour coverage), producing web pages, covering sales, reporting on parties and events, and lots more. What I love most is working at a magazine that does fashion in a smart, sassy way that's accessible, too. My favorite part is writing for The Cut blog. Plus, there's so much more to New York as well, like Daily Intel, Vulture, and Grub Street. There are so many smart people here, it's a refreshing atmosphere.


☆ How long have you been a member of Ladies Lotto and how did you find out about the group?

I've been a member since March 2007. Actually, my ex-boyfriend told me that I had to meet his ex-neighbor Natalie Blacker, which is how I met her and became a part of the group. She has a way of making you feel like your experience is really important, and right then I was hooked.

☆ Do you have a Ladies Lotto-related story you care to share?

The first meeting I went to was in March 2007, and Sara Rosen, the publicity director of the art book publisher powerhouse books was the guest speaker. Miss Rosen was my first boss ever when I worked for her as an intern so it was a really cool way to welcome me into the group. It felt serendipitous that she was the first speaker. She had been a mentor to me, and then she was mentoring other people at the LL dinner. I felt right at home.


☆ Since you have this AMAZING job in fashion, we are sure you saw a lot of fashion last week. What were your favorite shows and why?

Preen—I really loved everything, from the hair/makeup to the clothes to the accessories. Other stand-outs: The peep-toe fringe booties at Alexander Wang; the accessories at Marc Jacobs; the shoelace necklaces at Marc by Marc; the neon/animal print shoes at Matthew Williamson; the huge rhinestone statement necklaces at Vera Wang; and Phillip Lim's zipper-detailed garments. What I want to buy everything of: rag & bone. Everything.

[alexander wang S/S '09]

☆ Any trends that you spotted for spring ’09 that you are excited for?

Almost every designer sent a jumpsuit down the runway. That could be really interesting if worn right.


[Marc Jacobs Jumpsuit S/S '09]

☆ Any trends you saw that you are hoping don’t become popular?

Sheer! I'm hoping people remember that they should put on camis and slips before they go out with this new trend. And sequins—there's no need to be sparkly all the time. Use with discretion.


[Aggy in Henry Holland S/S '09] [pic via Perez Hilton]


☆ Is there anything you are looking forward to seeing/wearing for this fall season?

I really want a pair of black patent tall flat boots. Yeah, it's specific, but that's because they look so great. Others: Two-toned tights (and patterned tights in general), deep chocolate colored nails, berry matte lips, and black lip gloss (YSL Beaute and L'Oreal are both coming out with versions). Also, I own ten different pairs of booties—so anything ankle-bootie related. Obsessed.


☆ What is the one essential piece that would make any girl’s fall wardrobe complete? How about for spring?

Jewelry. No matter what you're wearing, have a statement piece—a ring, a necklace, whatever. People always notice your jewelry. I have this antique ring from my grandmother with a big S stretching from my knuckle up to the top of my finger with a diamond in it. It's so bomb—especially for my grandmother 1950s style. So I wear that every day. But it could be whatever. Also, I'm obsessed with green nail polish right now (Neon Flash by Mattese Makeup, sold at Ricky's). It is amazing.



☆ Any other fun things you want to share with the Ladies?

Hope to meet a lot of you soon.


Thanks so much Sharon for taking the time to share all of that with us! It was lovely to e-meet you and we will surely use this info to make sure we have slammin’ wardrobes for fall and spring. xx