Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Meet the Cast of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

“The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” cast includes:

Adrienne Maloof – A savvy "no-nonsense" businesswoman, Adrienne Maloof is an Albuquerque, New Mexico native who moved to the palm tree-lined streets of Beverly Hills 15 years ago. Adrienne, her mother and four brothers comprise the Maloof Family dynasty whose multi-faceted sports and entertainment enterprise includes the Sacramento Kings, Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, Sweeping Palms Entertainment (film, television & music) and Maloof Money Cup, the world’s largest skateboard competition. Adrienne is also involved in several charitable organizations within her community including the School On Wheels program, the Good News Foundation, and the Camp Kindness program with the Sacramento ASPCA. While business certainly plays an extremely important role in Adrienne’s life, her true passion is family. Married to prominent Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Nassif, she is a mom through and through, raising her three young sons, Gavin (7) and twins Christian and Colin (4).

Camille Grammer - Camille is a multi-talented model, actress, dancer, and advocate, who calls Beverly Hills her home. Grammer began her career as a dancer on Club MTV. She was married to sitcom star and icon, Kelsey Grammer, for 13 years. Together, they have a daughter, Mason, and a son, Jude. Camille and Kelsey own a production company, Grammnet Inc., which produces the shows “Medium,” “Girlfriends” and “The Game.” She has appeared on both the big and small screens. Most notably, in the Halloween episode of Frasier, in Betty Thomas’ “Private Parts,” and Woody Allen’s “Deconstructing Harry.” She has also appeared as a dancer in several music videos. Grammer was featured in the HDTV video dream sequence in David Niles’ Broadway show “Dreamtime” at The Ed Sullivan Theater. Her hobbies include dancing, skiing, paddle boarding, tennis, hiking, and collecting rare first edition books, such as Pride and Prejudice, Works of Byron 1833, The Sound and the Fury, and the works of William Faulker and Roald Dahl.

Kim Richards - Kim Richards is a former child actress who is best known as the "Disney Girl,” starring in such films as " "Escape To Witch Mountain", and "No Deposit, No Return.” She also appeared in various television series including "Nanny and The Professor," "James at 15,” “Hello Larry,” "Different Strokes," "CHiPS" and "Magnum PI." After co-starring in the feature film “Tuff Turf” with James Spader and Robert Downey Jr., Kim decided to go into early retirement and devote her time to raising a family. Kim has four children Brooke (24), Whitney (20), Chad (19), and Kimberly (15). Kim, who is currently single, is the older sister to fellow Housewife, Kyle Richards and Aunt to Paris and Nicky Hilton. She is currently working on various business endeavors including a jewelry and water bottle line that donates proceeds to charity. Kim loves the Beverly Hills lifestyle and says, "you can take the girl out of Beverly Hills but you can't take the Beverly Hills out of the girl.”

Kyle Richards - This sassy California native was born in Hollywood, California into an acting family. She landed her first role at the age four in Disney's “Escape to Witch Mountain,” where she played the younger version of her sister, child actress and fellow Housewife Kim Richards. Her other sister is Kathy Hilton, mother to Nicky and Paris Hilton. Kyle’s TV credits include “Little House on The Prairie,” “Carter Country,” “Down To Earth,” and most recently “E.R.” Film credits include "Halloween," and "The Watcher in the Woods." Kyle is an avid cancer advocate and recently completed a 68 -mile bike marathon to raise money to help fight the disease. Kyle is married to the love of her life Mauricio Umansky, a high-end realtor with Hilton & Hyland Realty. Her greatest passion is being a mother to her four daughters Farrah (21), Alexia (14), Sophia (10) and Portia (2). Kyle believes "If you obey all the rules, you'll miss all the fun."

Lisa Vanderpump - This charming and witty Brit has only been in the U.S. for five years but has already made her mark in Beverly Hills. Lisa Vanderpump was born and raised in London but lived in Monte Carlo and the South of France before moving to California. Married to her husband Ken Todd for almost twenty-nine years, the couple has two children Pandora (24) and Max (18), plus their four dogs that they also consider their babies. While in Europe Lisa designed various homes, yachts and all of twenty six bars and restaurants that the couple owned in London. And Lisa hasn't slowed down now that she is in the states. She currently owns two restaurants that she created, Villa Blanca a celebrity hangout, which has been described as "the sexiest restaurant " in Beverly Hills and Sur in West Hollywood. Design is her passion, but she also writes a page each month for Beverly Hills Lifestyle magazine and she has a skin care line, "Epione." Lisa says Beverly Hills is "an oasis in Los Angeles" and loves the glamorous lifestyle this "fantasyland" enables. Additionally, she is candid about the fact that she spends every night in bed with a gigolo, also known as her pint-sized pup Giggy.

Taylor Armstrong - Taylor Armstrong is a stunning Oklahoman native who moved to Beverly Hills seven years ago. She is married to venture capitalist Russell Armstrong and together, they have one four-year-old daughter named Kennedy. This Midwestern girl knows how powerful men in Beverly Hills work, so she makes sure that she is always looking her best because she knows that something younger and prettier can always come along and catch her husbands’ eye. Taylor is not just a beauty; she has brains too and is passionate about both her business and philanthropic work. She founded her own SAP firm, eImplement Inc. and also volunteers for the 1736 Family Crisis Center. Taylor enjoys the chic lifestyle Beverly Hills has to offer but doesn’t elude to the fact that "beautiful women are a dime a dozen." Even though she has adapted well to the luxurious lifestyle Beverly Hills offers, she has the "work hard, play hard" attitude that has enabled her to maintain her own identity.

Friday, August 13, 2010

A Night at the Museum - continued

I spoke with Miles, one of the three finalists, of course, and he's very nice, maybe a bit bashful. He called his time on WOA "the funnest game I ever played" so he obviously enjoyed the experience even without the big win.


I was able to chat a bit with Erik, my favorite of all the artists. He's also a fan of the show and a cheerleader for a second season. He uttered the best line of the season on his way out. I won't repeat it here but he has no regrets for his reference about Miles and the two are not likely to become drinking buddies any time soon. I thought he was a real gentleman.




I found myself sharing a cocktail table with a woman in a hot pink dress who turned out to Abdi's mom, Donna. She should be on televisions herself. She's a scientist who has always loved art and took Abdi to museums near and far throughout his childhood. She must have bitten a few fingernails while viewing the show because she said she knew he didn't work as quickly as he had to to complete the challenges. Did I say she was nice? She took this photo of Erik and I.




At about 10:00, we were invited to take our seats to watch the finale. There were a lot of laughs throughout the show and the artists seem to enjoy it and each other. Abdi's win was a crowd pleaser. In his remarks he generously said he was in awe of Miles' and Peregrine's work and that the win was an amazing honor. He encouraged everyone to "be fearless and ignore the haters."


A great, great event. Thank you.


And some random observations .... Judith, one of the first artists to arrive, wore a tank top with her backwards Pride and Prejudice design from the book cover challenge ... Andy Cohen gives people high fives ... Andy and SJP sat together during the viewing ... Peregrine attended with her husband ... when the judges were introduced just before the viewing, they all got rock star applause ... Luann is taaaaallllll and was surrounded by an entourage of much shorter men ... there was a huge rat outside the front door of the museum ... Abdi cannot respond to all the email he gets and feels guilty about it so don't send him any for a while .... and one line from Sex and the City's final season kept playing in my head. Carrie tells Alexander Petrovsky "I'm not very arty."


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Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Blogging Bravo Interview with Nicole Nadeau - Continued

BB: Countess LuAnn de Lesseps is your aunt. Are you close?

NN: Yes, she is my father's sister and I have always admired her. She is fearless. As a young woman she packed up and moved to Italy to become a model.

BB: Are you close to Victoria?

NN: Yes, "Peachie" is only 15 and she is definitely very artistic.

BB: What is next for you?

NN: I have started/co-founded KNS Design Collective with Kameron Gad.

BB: Are any of your designs for sale?

NN: Yes, I just designed a series of rings based on topography.

BB: We are almost out of time. Is there anything else that you would like to say about your experience on "Work of Art?"

NN: It was so much fun! I mean there was stress but it was exciting - a true competitive artistic adventure.

BB: Thank you Nicole.


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Monday, June 21, 2010

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Real Housewives of New Jersey Season Two Premiere Party - Continued

Chateau, the already famous hair salon that was made INFAMOUS by the show, had a station set up and stylists were “sprucing up” any willing VIPs. Of course, I indulged and was treated to a styling by Caroline’s stylist, Victor. Victor mentioned that Chateau is coming out with a hair care line that will not only be available at the salon, but they are negotiating with QVC as well. (Note: I tried the serum that was in my swag bag this morning – run, don’t walk ladies – it’s amazing!)

Near the Chateau’s set-up was a t-shirt table selling many amazing NJ Housewives merchandise (including Teresa’s famous “Jersey Girl” shirt!) and a “step and repeat”. Many people took the opportunity to strike a pose and be photographed! It seems as if Dina (in addition to Project Ladybug) and Caroline are jumping into the business venture pool as well (Caroline’s Kitchen? Not sure if it was a cookbook or a cooking lesson program, but I’m sure we’ll hear more soon!)

Inside the “Grand Ballroom”, the Brownstone staff didn’t fail to entertain in style! There were treats suitable for a night of cuddling up in front of the TV – a chocolate fountain with cookies, fruits etc. for dipping, cake and even popcorn! A DJ kept the crowd enthusiastic until the ladies arrived – well, some of them anyway!

Caroline and the entire Manzo clan entered, as “Sweet Caroline” played in the background. Caroline told the crowd that no one was leaving without saying “hello” because the fans are the reason for their success and the success of the show. Not long after, Teresa and Joe Guidice made their entrance, followed by Jacqueline and her husband, Chris Laurita. Jacqueline’s daughter Ashley was also there with her boyfriend. (Did Andy ever come up with a name for Teresa’s hair?? LOL)

Many of the “Real Kids of NJ” were on hand as well. Teresa’s girls were walking around the VIP section (all dressed alike of course – although we didn’t see Baby Audriana!) Jacqueline, again, had Ashley seated nearby and later in the evening her Mom brought CJ and Baby Nicholas in to see their Mommy!) And of course, the Manzo kids (Albie, Lauren and Chris) did a fantastic job promoting and putting the event together!



Probably the most surprising (and welcome) appearance was that of “Real Housewives of NYC” star Jill Zarin, her husband Bobby and daughter Ally. My press credential did not allow me access to interview the NJ ladies, but I was fortunate enough to chat with Jill for a while. I asked Jill how she thought her season was going so far and she said it’s “been rough.” “I am the same person I was two years ago. I didn’t wake up one morning and decide to be a -----!” When asked if the editing would turn in her favor in the weeks to come she said, “I’ve seen this week’s show and it’s just as bad as last week!” Still, Jill was supportive of the franchise and you could tell that while she’s not surprised at the reactions to this season, she’s optimistic about the future. I will say this, she is STUNNING in person and VERY friendly (she asked me about my job as a teacher and was sincere and kind during our chat!) And yes, she did say, “AND my book came out!”

When the episode showed live on the big screen, it was interesting to watch the ladies’ faces and reactions (Jacqueline cried when they showed Nicholas being born! Caroline’s eyes got wide when people booed Danielle! Ashley was embarrassed during the “birth control” talk!)

I was happy to sit next to two big fans of the show, Mary and Lori and I got a great photo of them together. They were lots of fun and Lori was not giving up her front-row seat for anyone (not even Jacqueline’s Mom!!)

Where was Dina? She hosted her own event at NYC nightclub Splash for Project Ladybug. Where was Danielle? I’m sure if asked Caroline would have had the same response she had at the Meet and Greet last summer, “This is MY house!”

All in all, I’d have to say that this was a wonderful event. This is how we do it in New Jersey, people – grand and fabulous!

Monday, April 26, 2010

This Week on 9 By Design



Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Real Housewives of New York Previews

http://www.bravotv.com/the-real-housewives-of-new-york-city/season-3/videos/zarin-family-book


Friday, April 9, 2010

Shear Genius 2 on Shear Genius 3, Charlie Price continued

THE TOP THREE

THIRD PLACE- Matthew has built an impressive reputation on Shear Genius by consistently producing tasteful, thoughtful and beautiful work. In this final challenge he threw all that out the window and came up with a disjointed maelstrom of tacky trade show hair. The hideous color combinations and painful looking bald caps showcased an odd lapse in judgment for him and a disappointing departure from the elegant beautiful work he showed earlier in the competition.

RUNNER UP-Janine sent out carefully crafted and refined pin sets that worked perfectly well for a runway show. Her fatal flaw was touting her looks as finer versions of the iconic work of Trevor Sorbie, arguably the only hairstylist ever to rival Vidal Sassoon. It was presumptuous and ridiculous of her to think she could improve on his masterpieces. Ultimately her efforts were admirable but flat somehow and sadly predictable. She is a charming and talented stylist who has great things ahead of her I remain one of her loyal fans!

Brig simply obliterated the competition like a nuclear bomb. I have been fascinated a
nd enchanted by her the entire season but understood why people found her “all smoke and no magic”. Her shtick is thick as molasses and her work and taste level often leave a lot to be desired. One second she is intriguing the next she is a disaster. What Brig does have is an uncanny way of seducing the audience and simultaneously unleashing an iron clad strategy laced with an idiosyncratic point of view. Her self-branding and hunger for greatness served her better and elevated her high above her childish mean spirited detractors. Which leads me to her final “collection”. It was a revelation. Brig unleashed fresh, cohesive, modern and thought provoking styles that both beguiled and excited. Her performance on SG3 was a one two punch of titillating reality BS coupled with excellent and truly authentic soul, not to mention skill and imagination to burn. Bravo indeed!



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Thursday, April 1, 2010

Project Brig - continued

APRIL FOOL!!!! But we kind of like the idea....

Friday, March 12, 2010

Shear Genius at the Bravo Upfronts

Kim Vo

Tabatha Coffey

Brian Buterbaugh

April Barton

Monday, February 8, 2010

Kell on Earth, Tonight!



Monday, February 1, 2010

Monday, January 11, 2010

Back to Blogging Bravo.