Thursday, January 18, 2007

Globe Fashion


Who Wore Kevan Hall


Tina Fey – Presenter - 30 Rock
On hand to present, 30 Rock actress Tina Fey wore an onyx and white paisley lace plunging neckline cocktail dress with waist defining belt and release pleat silk gazar bell shaped skirt. (Tina Fey arrives for the 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards on Monday, Jan. 15, 2007, in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill))

Edie Falco – Nominee – The Sopranos
Nominated for Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series for The Sopranos, wore a dusk blue iridescent chiffon empire strapless gown encrusted with a marquis baguette and solitaire crystal bodice from Kevan’s Spring 2007 collection.

Vanessa Minnillo – Entertainment Tonight
She interviewed stars on the red carpet this year in a topaz charmeuse twist front gown with tiger’s eye and crystal beaded keyhole straps.


Sharon Leal – Dreamgirls
Leal chose a nude tulle gown embroidered with rose satin, crystals and pewter bullion in a paisley design that ombre’s to a full glamorous train.

Tawny Cypress – Heroes
Supporting her nominated series Heroes, she chose a pistachio silk crepe halter gown with beaded racer back and cascading ruffle train.

Becki Newton – Ugly Betty
Newton, from the nominated hit television series Ugly Betty will look like a red carpet regular in an emerald diamond taffeta off the shoulder gown with dramatic front slit and train.

Alicia Witt – Golden Globe Parties
Witt hit the party circuit in a Capri blue to taupe ombre one shoulder scarf gown with sexy slit and sweeping train.

Gina Pickens
Wife of Grey’s Anatomy’s James Pickens Jr., Gina Pickens will walk the red carpet in a teal blue iridescent silk taffeta signature tie front blouse paired with a teal gala trumpet skirt.






















At The In Style Luxury Suite

Guests included "Desperate Housewife" Felicity Huffman and "Project Runway" host and executive producer Heidi Klum, among others (like Taryn Manning and Katherine McPhee -- see article below for more details).

In Style Luxury Suites At The Four Seasons Hotel During The 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards®

In Style offered beauty services, accessories and jewelry January 12 to 14, 2007

WHO: In Style helped celebrities and VIPs get “red carpet ready” for the 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards® with their picks of the latest in Hollywood beauty treatments, fine jewelry, accessories and fashion for this awards show season. Held at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, In Style’s Luxury Suites was open from January 12th – 14th, and offered celebrities and entertainment VIPs the ultimate in pampering and first look at this year’s lavish accessories.

Guests included: Felicity Huffman, Heidi Klum, Ali Larter, Hayden Panettierre, Kristen Bell, Kimberly Stewart, Taryn Manning, Kevin Dillon, Clifton Collins, Jr., Adam Beach, Joy Lauren, Katherine McPhee, Becki Newton, Eric Mabius, Masi Oka, Mindy Kaling, Sara Rue, Olivia Wilde, Perry Reeves, Melina Kanakaredes, Sofia Milos, Marlee Matlin, Garcelle Beauvais, Ivan Baquero, Kelly Hu, Sophina Brown, Adrian Palicki, Beau Garrett, Cathy Shim, Christian Oliver, Greg Grunberg, Marisol Nichols, Mimi Rogers, Monet Mazur, Paula Patton, Rena Sofer, Robin Weingart, Sarah Jane Morris, Scott Porter, Tasha Smith, Victoria Pratt, Zack Quinto, Sally Kirkland, Nicole Tubiola, Taylor Dayne, Malinda Williams, Rachelle Lefevre and Aundrea Fimbres from Danity Kane.

WHAT: Guests enjoyed pampering treatments ranging from make-up applications by Sisley, brows from top brow maven Anastasia, eyelash extensions by Twin Magic Lashes, and manicures by Essie, to hairstyling and blow outs by Paul Mitchell Products. The accessories suite included Baume & Mercier, Catherine Rapetti, Alejandro Ingelmo, and Kotur while the jewelry suite had on display an array of red carpet items from Penny Preville, Laura Gibson, Christopher Designs, Le Vian, Links of London, and many more.

Amy E. Goodman, Contributing Editor for In Style, was on hand for interviews. Amy is an expert on celebrity culture and a forecaster of red carpet trends.

WHEN: Friday, January 12th – Sunday, January 14th

WHERE: The Four Seasons Hotel Beverly Hills in Los Angeles




















Tommyrays Official Opening Day

Former San Diego Padre, Tommy Le Vasseur, owner of TommyRays, hosted more than 175 fans for his ‘Party With Bacardi’ at the restaurant’s official opening party.

Ed Begley, Jr., Rachelle Carson Begley (seen photo right, with Le Vasseur), Peter Onorati, Matt Cedeno, Dominic Comperatore, Adrian Bellani, Adrienne Janic, Charlene Tilton (seen left photo with comedienne Judy Tenuta, Mrs. Le Vasseur), Kiko Ellsworth, Rachel Melvin, Tasia Sherel, Lee Reherman, Patrika Darbo, Jack Krizmanich, Justin Chon, Johnny Pacar, Kate Linder & Judy Tenuta were among the ‘beautiful people’ who attended the event, hosted by Carolina Bacardi of the Bacardi Rum Family.

Guests were treated to Bacardi Voodoo Doll Martinis, Bacardi Mojitos and the Grey Goose Tommy’s Crush as they enjoyed a delectable fare, prepared by Executive Chef Maryanne “Z” which included Asian Chicken Salad on Wonton Crisps, Laura Chenel Chevre (goat cheese tossed in toasted almonds with whole roasted garlic & red peppers served on crostini), Prawn Cocktails, Teryiaki Beef Bok Choy, Grilled Scotch Smoked Salmon, Hoison Pork on Sesame Rice Cakes, Caprese Skewers, Dungeness Mini Crab Cakes and more.

TommyRays restaurant is located at 12345 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City. www.tommyrayscafe.com

©2007 Kathy Hutchins / Hutchins Photo

Wednesday, January 17, 2007


"Following the tradition of California country legends like Buck Owens, Merle Haggard and Dwight Yoakam, David Serby throws his cowboy hat in the ring of fire and comes out a winner" -- Billy Block Western Beat Radio

Songster Serby


BeansTalk doesn't have a lot of famous friends. We're mighty proud of our good friend, muscian David Serby who is getting the attention he deserves. Here's the latest news, a bio on him for those of you about to discover him, and where you can find more information on the internet.

Chris Morris, the legendary music scribe for such publications as the Los Angeles Reader, Musician, Rolling Stone, LA Weekly, Los Angeles CityBeat, Billboard, and the Hollywood Reporter recently chose I Just Don't Go Home as one of the 10 best records of 2006.

Morris had this to say about the record:

"David Serby, I Just Don't Go Home (Western Beat). This unassuming Illinois-born neo-honky-tonk musician is currently writing songs as full of brilliantly observed detail as those penned by his obvious model, Dave Alvin. I shit you not. And at every live show, he seems to pull yet another magnificent new song out of his bag. Nice guy, too. So buy his album, check out his local gigs, and keep your eyes open -- Serby's gonna be around for a while."

Morris picked I Just Don’t Go Home on his list beside records by Bob Dylan, Los Lobos, Alejandro Escovedo, Neil Young, and Tom Waits.

David Serby writes traditional country songs that tell simple (mostly) true stories. Serby split his childhood years between a rural corn farm town in Illinois and a small orange grove town in Southern California, and his songs reflect the struggles and the challenges of the working man.

Music lovers from all walks of life are sure to connect with the characters, images and emotions evoked by his lyrics. He’s influenced most by artists and writers like Hank Williams, Harlan Howard, Buck Owens, Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Dwight Yoakam, and Dave Alvin.

Serby and his band, The Sidewinders, play shows all over Southern California. The Sidewinders are made up of some of the hottest and most well-respected musicians on the West Coast. Ed Tree (The Spencer Davis Group, Rita Coolidge, Juice Newton) plays guitar, Taras Prodaniuk (Lucinda Williams, Dwight Yoakam) plays bass, and Gary Ferguson (John Hiatt) currently plays drums. In the last year, the drummer's chair has also been filled by Dale Daniel (The Hacienda Brothers), and Nashville impresario Billy Block (Western Beat, The Frank Black band).

With the help of The Sidewinders, and his good friend and producer Ed Tree, Serby just finished recording his second record, entitled “Another Sleepless Night”. They recorded the disc at Treehouse Studios in San Gabriel, California. Also along for the ride are JayDee Maness and Chris Lawrence (pedal steel guitar), Skip Edwards (piano, B3, Wurlitzer), Rick Solem (piano), and Amy Farris (fiddle).

David Serby
www.davidserby.com
www.myspace.com/davidserby
www.sonicbids.com/davidserby








Celebrities and their Proverbial Silver Spoon
By Andrea Goodwin, associate editor (agoodwin@beanstalkbiz.com)

In celebration of the Golden Globes Awards, The Silver Spoon Hollywood Buffet hosted a two-day long event, last Thursday and Friday, offering a variety of exquisite jewelry, indulgent beauty products, and delectable cuisine to select guests at a gorgeous Beverly Hills estate. Invitations to the Asian-inspired celebration were hand delivered to celebrities with giant white chocolate dipped fortune cookies including a customized Silver Spoon fortune.

The Silver Spoon Hollywood Buffet caters to the red carpet primping which celebrities, stylists, media and industry heavyweights crave. Prestigious designers, jewelers, cosmetic and skin-care lines from around the world joined The Silver Spoon Entertainment Marketing in presenting exclusive tribute fashions, camera-ready makeup and hairstyling, and fabulous good luck charms to selected guests. Invited celebrities, media and special guests at this Buffet indulged in an array of beauty treatments. BeansTalk happily joined in the fun.

The Silver Spoon Entertainment Marketing co-founder Melissa Lemer commented, “I chose an Asian theme for this Buffet to help stars strive for calm and zen in their lives at this crazy time of year. Celebrities can enjoy everything from relaxing manicures and pedicures from Hands On, facials from Dermalogica to massages from sensual Kama Sutra.”

Lemer’s partner, Lorena Bendinskas added, “We are excited about the work that RxArt is doing and especially pleased to be working with them on this event. All of our guests will be asked to give a $40 donation to the non-profit organization at the door.”

About RxArt:
RxArt promotes healing through exposure to original fine art in patient, procedure and examination rooms of healthcare facilities. The non-profit believes healing is optimally accomplished by the integration of spiritual well-being and the finest medical care. RxArt recently completed a project at the NYU Child Study Center featuring a site-specific installation by Ryan McGinness, three large multi-part decals by Assume Vivid Astro Focus, and a video projection, “Jellyfish” by Dominik Lejman. RxArt launched the second RxArt Coloring Book for children, which features drawings by over 50 artists including John Baldessari, Jeremy Blake, Will Cotton, Sol LeWitt and Dennis Hopper.

The Buffet offered the best in beauty including HyperBarOX treatments from HANDS ON spa and Kama Sutra luxury romance bath products. Dermalogica performed facials while Mary Kay cosmetics instructed in makeup application. BeansTalk was very happy to receive a personalized skin evaluation and prescription for products from Dermalogica, and a lovely color analysis and make up refresher from Mary Kay. NIOXIN stylists treated and style hair on-site, while Xtreme Lashes assisted guests in creating thick, full dramatic lashes for the red carpet. This BeansTalk staffer particularly enjoyed the waxing and shaping obtained from Billion Dollar Brows of Beverly Hills.

Attendees also indulged in bath and beauty products from Principessa Beauty (BeansTalk’s word to the wise: Get there before Janice Dickinson. She is apparently a VERY BIG fan.), Malibu Secret skincare and Lumar of Beverly Hills perfume. BeansTalk received Lumar’s lovely and intoxicating Aphrodesiac perfume ($90) just in time for Valentine’s Day. Look for an upcoming article!

Guests also previewed and took home the latest in fashion and accessories including luxurious Magaschoni cashmere slippers, throws and wraps, Rock Anthem apparel, Etienne Aigner shoes, handbags and jewelry along with Jacqueline Jarrot handbags and belts. They could also admire and take home beautiful jewelry from the collections of Silpada Designs and Ley Love.

Buffet guests snacked and relaxed while indulging in cuisine from Blowfish Sushi, treats from Sweet Candy and libations from Stoli vodka, Hite beer and Fuze energy drinks. In addition, the Echelon Club’s acclaimed chef Jack Lee, a favorite of Oprah, Angelina Jolie and Hilary Swank, demonstrated his amazing cooking techniques.

Attendees at the Golden Globe Buffet included: Lindsay Lohan, Hayden Panettiere (“Heroes”), Lauren Conrad (“The Hills”), Tori Spelling & Dean McDermott (“Tori & Dean: Inn Love”), Greg Grunberg (“Heroes”), Rena Sofer (“Heroes”), Tawny Cypress (“Heroes”), William Mapother (“Lost”), Ken Davitian (Borat), Jennifer Finnigan (“Close to Home”), Jonathan Silverman (“In Case of Emergency”), Beverly Mitchell (“7th Heaven”), Janice Dickinson (“Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency” who got kicked out, as noted in Tuesday's New York Post; she apparently was screaming "don't take my swag away!"), Carrie Ann Inaba (“Dancing with the Stars”), Shawn Pyfrom (“Desperate Housewives”), Andy Dick (“The Reality Show”), Simon Rex (“Monarch Cove”), Mehcad Brooks (“Desperate Housewives”), Brenda Strong (“Desperate Housewives”), Shelley Morrison (“Will & Grace”), Randy Spelling (“Sons of Hollywood”), Sean Stewart (“Sons of Hollywood”), David Weintraub (“Sons of Hollywood”), Lauren German (Standing Still), Roger R. Cross (“24”), Louis Lombardi (“24”), Rex Lee (“Entourage”), Caroline D’Amore, Ali Landry (“Eve”), Tatyana Ali (“Fresh Prince of Bel Air”), Perrey Reeves (“Entourage”), Joy Lauren (“Desperate Housewives”), Samantha Harris (“Dancing with the Stars”), Benu Mabhena (Blood Diamond), Hal Sparks (“Queer as Folk”), Joseph Reitman (These Days), Marsha Thomason (“Las Vegas”), Olivia Wilde (“The O.C.”), Sarah Kozer (Ride or Die), Joanna Krupa (Ripple Effect), Kathy Hilton (“I Want to Be a Hilton”), Kevin Sorbo (“Andromeda”), Adrianne Curry (“My Fair Brady”), Phillip Bloch (“Style Me”), Bahar Soomekh (“Day Break”), Daveigh Chase (“Big Love”), Jennifer Crystal (“Once and Again”), McKenzie Westmore (“Passions”), Scottie Thompson (“NCIS”), Shaun Toub (Crash), Kathy Griffin (“The D-List”), Bai Ling (“Lost”), Ashley Jones (“Bold and the Beautiful”), Vanessa Lengies (“Monarch Cove”), Deidre Hall (“Days of Our Lives”), Courtney Peldon (“Boston Public”), Bobbi Sue Luther (Parental Guidance Suggested), Dania Ramirez (“X-Men: The Last Stand”), Kellan Lutz (“The Comeback”), Katee Sackhoff (“Battlestar Galactica”), Robert David Hall (“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation”), Paula Malcomson (“Deadwood”), Tiffany, Jason Davis, Kayla Ewell (“Bold and the Beautiful”), Victor Webster (“Mutant X”), Brittany Gastineau (“Gastineau Girls”), Thomas Balfour (pro skater) and Courteney Semel

Sponsor and Product

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Blowfish Sushi sushi
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Dearfoams slippers
Dermalogica facial skincare
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Etienne Aigner shoes, handbags and jewelry
Expressive Fortunes fortune cookies
Fashion Form women’s lingerie
Fuze beverages
HANDS ON SPA manicures/pedicures
Jacqueline Jarrot handbags and belts
KamaSutra bath and body products
LeyLove jewelry
Lumar of Beverly Hills perfume
Magaschoni cashmere clothing
Malibu Secrets body skincare
Mary Kay cosmetics cosmetics / men's body care
Monarch Travel travel agency
NIOXIN hair care
Platinum cars
Principessa Beauty bath and body products
Rock Anthem clothing
S Factor dance and fitness studio
Silpada Designs sterling silver jewelry
Stoli vodka
Sweet Candy candy store on Melrose
Traditions sporty shoes and clothing
Two Doors clothing
Wallop exclusive on-line social network
Xtreme Lashes eyelash extensions
YH Trading, Inc. Hite beer
Zorbitz bracelets

Tuesday, January 16, 2007


Platinum "Million Dollar" Jacket, contains 2 lbs. of Platinum and 2,000 diamonds (300.0 cts). Suggested retail: $1 million.

Platinum Guild Pampers and Prepares Celebrities
By Andrea Goodwin, associate editor (agoodwin@beanstalkbiz.com)

In honor of the 64th Annual Golden Globes Awards, The Platinum Guild International hosted their annual Red Carpet Jewelry Preview this past weekend to showcase one-of-a-kind, platinum jewelry designs from over 20 of the worlds top celebrity jewelers including Neil Lane, Erica Courtney, Alan Friedman, Sol Rafael, and Jacob & Co.

Millions of dollars worth of jewelry were on display at the luxurious Luxe Hotel penthouse in Beverly Hills, where celebrities and stylists were able to select couture platinum pieces to wear on the red carpet. Celebrities who wanted to look their best for the big event were also treated to electrotherapy and massage treatments from Spa 415 Beverly Hills, as well as healthy and natural sunless tanning treatments by Chocolate Sun of Santa Monica.

BeansTalk was given a special showing of the collection by celebrity stylist Michael O’Connor, who shared with us some of the newest trends in red carpet jewelry. The highlights included the platinum “Seasons” bib-style necklace by Amgad, with pink, canary, and champagne diamonds (107.26 cts.) which can be yours for about a million dollars.

“Necklaces are really coming back into fashion, “ comments O’Connor, who credits stars such as Sarah Jessica Parker, Queen Latifah, and Judy Dench for the look.

Another highlight of the show was the Lazare Kaplan “Million Dollar” evening jacket, which contains two pounds of platinum, and two thousand diamonds (300.0 cts.). O’Connor suggested the look would be great for a star like Eva Longoria, as she would have to make no alterations to the size. BeansTalk asked O’Connor about the future of the piece, presuming it would be worn by a star at a high profile event. It certainly could not be worn again. O’Connor revealed that the diamonds are actually attached by a platinum chain, which could then be taken off the garment and worn as a “long riviera of necklaces.”

Gathering quite a bit of attention was the $100,000 platinum “Shibuki” necklace. The term “shibuki” means “splash”, as the piece, really a work of art, connotes a splash of water with diamond and platinum droplets (5.52 cts.) O’Connor shared that the necklace is surprisingly comfortable. BeansTalk thought it was exquisite.

Lastly, we thought our readers would enjoy the Ganjam diamond and sapphire wave bracelet (25.81 cts). We noticed this for its arrangement of stone colors and shapes. Suggested retail price: $22,378.00

Commenting on trends, jewelry and style expert Michael O’Connor noted that “celebrities are choosing colorful gemstones including sapphires, moonstones, and rubies all set in Platinum to showcase their glamorous side.” O’Connor adds that “A-listers choose Platinum jewelry because it holds their gemstones more securely than any other metal and makes their jewelry sparkle from afar.”

Celebrities including Felicity Huffman (Desperate Housewives), Mario Lopez (Dancing with the Stars), Sharon Leal (Dreamgirls), Gregory Itzin (24), Rex Lee (Entourage), Perrey Reeves (Entourage), Tawny Cypress (Heroes), Phyllis Smith (The Office), Angela Kinsey (The Office), Kate Flannery (The Office), Brian Baumgartner (The Office), Leslie David Baker (The Office), Rick & Kathy Hilton, Monet Mazur (Monster-in-Law), A.J. Buckley (CSI: NY), Carmine Gio Vinazzo (CSI: NY), Jacqueline Mazeralla (Everybody Hates Chris), Amber Heard (Alpha Dog), Kate Linder (The Young & The Restless), and Brenda Dickson (The Young & The Restless) attended Platinum Guild International USA’s Golden Globe Awards Red Carpet Jewelry Preview where they indulged in a complete Platinum experience.

The following is a list of Platinum baubles celebrities wore on the red carpet. (Retail prices are provided when available):
-Kathy Hilton: (parties) Platinum evening jacket with 2,000 diamonds and 300 total carats by Lazare Kaplan ($1,000,000).
-Sharon Leal (Dreamgirls): Platinum and Tahitian pearl necklace, earrings, ring and bracelet by Mikimoto (total $274,000).
-Mario Lopez (Dancing with the Stars): Platinum and diamond watch by Jaeger-LeCoultre ($70,000), and Platinum cufflinks by Kwiat.
-Forest Whitaker (The Last King of Scotland): Platinum cufflinks and shirt studs by Kwiat or Jacob & Co. ($11,500). For National Board of Review Awards, Platinum and moonstone cufflinks by Neil Lane ($15,000).
-Jeremy Piven (Entourage): Platinum cufflinks by Neil Lane.
-Mary Louise Parker (Weeds): Platinum and diamond bracelets, rings, and earrings by Neil Lane (total over $600,000).
-Sandra Oh (Grey’s Anatomy): Platinum, diamond, and sapphire ring and earrings by Neil Lane (total over $400,000).
-Edie Falco (The Sopranos): Platinum, diamond and moonstone earrings and ring by Stephen Russell ($92,000).
-Elizabeth Perkins (Weeds): Platinum, diamond and black onyx earrings and cocktail ring by Kwiat.
-Mia Maestro (Alias): Darkened Platinum and diamond earrings and a necklace by Neil Lane.
-Kate Walsh (Grey’s Anatomy): 2 pairs of Platinum and diamond earrings, and 2 Platinum and diamond bracelets by Neil Lane (total $400,000).
-Rose McGowan (The Black Dahlia): Darkened Platinum and diamond necklace by Neil Lane.
-Chandra Wilson (Grey’s Anatomy): Custom-made Platinum earrings, bracelet and cocktail ring by Kwiat.
-Sara Ramirez (Grey’s Anatomy): Platinum earrings, bracelet and a ring by Kwiat.
-Isla Fischer (Wedding Crashers): Platinum and diamond ring with moonstones and sapphires, Platinum, diamond and white topaz earrings, and 2 Platinum and diamond bracelets by Neil Lane (total $400,000).
-Rebecca Gayheart (Vanished): Platinum and diamond bracelet and earrings by Neil Lane (total $117,000).
-Ali Larter (Heroes): 3 Platinum and diamond bracelets and Platinum and diamond earrings by Neil Lane (total $215,000).
-Sarah Chalke (Scrubs): Platinum and diamond earrings and a ring by Erica Courtney.
-Marlee Matlin (The L Word): Platinum and diamond bracelet, rings, earrings and a necklace by Erica Courtney.
-Gregory Itzin (24): Platinum and diamond cufflinks with sapphires and rubies by Neil Lane ($14,000).
-Vanessa Minnillo (Entertainment Tonight): Platinum and diamond earrings by Lazare Kaplan, Platinum and diamond necklace by Jacob & Co., Platinum and diamond cocktail ring by Ricardo Basta, Platinum and diamond bracelet by Ricardo Basta, and a Platinum, diamond and ruby bracelet by Ricardo Basta (total $400,000).
-Patricia Arquette (Medium): Platinum, diamond and onyx ring, and a Platinum and diamond necklace by Neil Lane (total $186,000).
-Ginnifer Goodwin (Big Love): Platinum and diamond earrings by Hearts on Fire ($30,000), and (HBO party) Platinum and diamond hoop earrings by Neil Lane ($18,000).
-Perrey Reeves (Entourage): Platinum and black pearl earrings by Mikimoto ($28,000).
-Tawny Cypress (Heroes): Platinum and diamond earrings by Jacob & Co., and a Platinum and diamond ring by Niwaka (total $120,000).
-Maria Menounos (Access Hollywood/Today Show): Platinum and diamond cocktail ring with an emerald and a ruby by Ricardo Basta, and Platinum and diamond earrings by Jacob & Co. (total $142,000).
-Giuliana DePandi (E! Entertainment): Platinum and diamond earrings by Hammerman Bros., Platinum and diamond earrings by Raymond C. Yard, and Platinum and diamond earrings by Amgad (total $188,000). Platinum and diamond bracelets by Alan Friedman.
-Leslie Bibb (Crossing Jordan): Long Platinum and diamond chain by Neil Lane ($130,000).
-Rex Lee (Entourage): Platinum and diamond cufflinks by Nikos Jewels, and a Platinum and diamond lapel pin by Neil Lane (total $28,000).
-Monet Mazur (Monster-in-Law): (HBO Party) Platinum and 28 carat diamond earrings with 566 diamonds by Hammerman Bros. ($110,000).
-Tracee Ellis Ross (Girlfriends): Platinum and diamond earrings by Ricardo Basta ($190,000).
-Angela Kinsey (The Office): Platinum and diamond hairpin by Niwaka, and a Platinum and diamond necklace and earrings by Erica Courtney (total $104,000).
-Phyllis Smith (The Office): Platinum and Tahitian pearl earrings, ring and necklace by Mikimoto (total $51,000).
-Kate Flannery (The Office): Platinum and 108 carat diamond necklace by Amgad ($1,000,000).
-Leslie David Baker (The Office): Platinum and diamond bracelet, ring and necklace by Nikos Jewels (total $34,700).
-Michael Bublé (musician dating nominee Emily Blunt): Platinum tiepin by Kwiat.
-Mya (musician): Platinum and diamond earrings and 2 rings by Erica Courtney (total $98,000).
-Samantha Harris (Dancing with the Stars): Platinum and diamond necklace, ring and earrings by Alan Friedman.
-Nancy O’Dell (Access Hollywood): Platinum and diamond cuff bracelet by Chad Allison, Platinum and diamond necklace by Gurhan, Platinum and diamond earrings ($11,000) and 2 necklaces ($20,000) by Erica Courtney (total $120,000).
-Shaun Robinson (Access Hollywood): Platinum and diamond cuff bracelet and earrings by Chad Allison, and Platinum and diamond ring ($20,000) and morganite earrings ($16,000) by Erica Courtney (total $64,000).
-Lara Spencer (Entertainment Tonight): Platinum and 11 carat diamond leaf brooch with 200 diamonds by Oscar Heyman & Bros ($50,000).
-Kristin Veitch (E! Entertainment): Platinum and diamond earrings by Chad Allison ($6,000).
-Tanika Ray (Extra): 2 Platinum necklaces by Kwiat.
-Billy Bush (Access Hollywood): Platinum and diamond cufflinks by Chad Allison ($12,000).
-Mark McGrath (Extra): Platinum cufflinks by Kwiat.
-Jon Kelly (Extra): Platinum and diamond cross by Catherine Angiel, and a Platinum and diamond bracelet and ring by Nikos Jewels (total $40,000).
-Jason Kennedy (E! Entertainment): Platinum and diamond cufflinks by Chad Allison ($4,000).
-Madison Michele (TV Guide Channel): Platinum and diamond bracelet by Oscar Heyman & Bros., and Platinum and diamond earrings and a bracelet by Lazare Kaplan (total $564,000).
-Nikki Boyer (TV Guide Channel): Platinum and green quartz earrings by Ricardo Basta, and a Platinum and diamond ring by Erica Courtney (total $65,000).
-Brooke Anderson (CNN): Platinum necklace by Kwiat.
-Sibila Vargas (CNN): Platinum necklace, earrings and bracelet by Kwiat.
-Christina Wayne (Broken Trail): Platinum and 15.20 carat diamond “Honeycomb” necklace by Jacob & Co. ($32,000).
-Keisha Whitaker (wife of nominee Forest Whitaker): Platinum necklace and earrings by Kwiat.
-Judie Itzin (wife of Gregory Itzin, 24): Platinum and diamond earrings and a bracelet by Raymond C. Yard (total $260,000).
-Mia Church (wife of nominee Thomas Haden Church): Platinum necklace and bracelet by Kwiat.

Special guests including BeansTalk's associate editor received exclusive gift bags containing items worth over $1,000 from companies including: Chocolate Sun, Aldo, Cross, Kim Seybert, Vera, Gendarme, Biatta Intimates, Westside Medical Spa, Core Pilates, Pureology, Dino Morra, Redken, Neutrogena, and artist Kerry Swank.

In addition, special celebrity guests were invited to autograph limited edition, Platinum Guild engraved iPod Nanos that will be available through the Clothes Off Our Back website auction to support childrens charities. BeansTalk readers can bid after the Golden Globes at www.clothesoffourback.org, as well as keep track of auction results at this website.

About Platinum Guild International USA: Platinum Guild International, the marketing arm for the worldwide Platinum jewelry industry, is dedicated to promoting Platinum and its, pure, rare and eternal qualities to the consumer and the jewelry trade. PGI has offices in each of the world’s major jewelry markets, providing information, assistance and education on all aspects of Platinum jewelry.

For more information on Platinum, please visit www.preciousplatinum.com


Some highlights of The Platinum Guild's Golden Globes' suite. Stylist Michael O'Connor, and the Guild's signature signed iPods were among the featured. (All photos by Andrea Goodwin, associate editor, BeansTalk)











From AP


Golden Globe Winners


Complete list of winners at Monday's 64th annual Golden Globes presented by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association in Beverly Hills, Calif.:

MOTION PICTURES

_Picture, Drama: _"Babel"

_Actress, Drama: Helen Mirren, "The Queen"

_Actor, Drama: Forest Whitaker, "The Last King of Scotland"

_Picture, Musical or Comedy: "Dreamgirls"

_Actress, Musical or Comedy: Meryl Streep, "The Devil Wears Prada"

_Actor, Musical or Comedy: Sacha Baron Cohen, "Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan"

_Supporting Actress: Jennifer Hudson, "Dreamgirls"

_Supporting Actor: Eddie Murphy, "Dreamgirls"

_Director: Martin Scorsese, "The Departed"

_Movie Screenplay: Peter Morgan, "The Queen"

_Foreign Language: "Letters From Iwo Jima," USA/Japan

_Original Score: Alexandre Desplat, "The Painted Veil"

_Original Song: "The Song of the Heart" from "Happy Feet"

_Animated Film: "Cars"

TELEVISION

_Series, Drama: "Grey's Anatomy," ABC

_Actress, Drama: Kyra Sedgwick, "The Closer"

_Actor, Drama: Hugh Laurie, "House"

_Series, Musical or Comedy: "Ugly Betty," ABC

_Actress, Musical or Comedy: America Ferrera, "Ugly Betty"

_Actor, Musical or Comedy: Alec Baldwin, "30 Rock"

_Miniseries or movie: "Elizabeth I," HBO

_Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Helen Mirren, "Elizabeth I"

_Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Bill Nighy, "Gideon's Daughter"

_Supporting Actress, Series, Miniseries or Movie: Emily Blunt, "Gideon's Daughter"

_Supporting Actor, Series, Miniseries or Movie: Jeremy Irons, "Elizabeth I"

_Cecil B. DeMille Award: Warren Beatty

Monday, January 15, 2007




Dr. King sought to forge the common ground on which people from all walks of life could join together to address important community issues. Working alongside individuals of all ages, races and backgrounds, Dr. King encouraged Americans to come together to strengthen communities, alleviate poverty, and acknowledge dignity and respect for all human beings. Service, he realized, was the great equalizer.

On January 15, 2007, as we celebrate the 21st anniversary of the Martin Luther King Jr. federal holiday, hundreds of thousands of Americans across the country will remember and memorialize Dr. King by participating in service projects in their communities. Together, they will honor King’s legacy of tolerance, peace, and equality by meeting community needs and making the holiday...

“A day ON, not a day OFF.”

www.mlkday.gov

Spice Up Winter Nights:
Burn Rare Love Candle, Balm

By Andrea Goodwin, associate editor (agoodwin@beanstalkbiz.com)

Fortunately, [this] BeansTalk [staffer] is happily married. Being happily married comes with its perks if you know what we mean. We find this kind of product irresistible.

We recently learned of the very beautiful, and elegantly packaged, Burn Rare Love Candles. They were created by Robin Coe-Hutshing founder of STUDIO at Fred Segal. These richly colored and exotic candles will stimulate your senses and your imagination. They are especially long-lasting, 150 hours, so they can be reignited, as often as you …. desire.
Retail $95.00

We think the ingredients sound mouth-watering. Ingredients: bitter Mayan cacao absolute, aromatic Ceylon cinnamon bark, Madagascar vanilla bean, Tunisian amber resin, Reunion Isle ylang ylang, red rose attar, sacred Asian lotus, jasmine sambac, mysore sandalwood (a BeansTalk favorite ingredient and favorite aroma!), Nigerian ginger root, Malabar Coast pink pepper, and sensual musk.

If you are thinking of a tantalizing treat to entice your mate with this Valentine’s Day, try pairing up the Burn Rare Love Candle with the Burn Rare Love Balm. This soothing and moisturizing balm can be massaged into any area of the body including the lips, toes, and fingertips. Ooh La La! Use for a special occasion or apply daily after a shower or bath to heighten your natural glow. Retail: $45.00

We nosed around the web and found the duo at www.beautyhabit.com. It's also available at Studio at Fred Segal.

Friday, January 12, 2007


Brokeback Mountain
Special Edition DVD

Brokeback Mountain comes to HD-DVD and DVD in a special 2-Disc Collector’s Edition on January 23, 2007 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. The two-disc set includes new bonus features and behind-the-scenes footage of the film that won Ang Lee (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon) the 2006 Oscar® for Best Director. An American epic, Brokeback Mountain earned eight Academy Award® nominations, including Best Picture.

Starring Academy Award® nominees Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal**, Brokeback Mountain: 2-Disc Collector’s Edition is the story of Ennis Del Mar (Ledger) and Jack Twist (Gyllenhaal), two young men dispatched to work as sheepherders up on the majestic Brokeback Mountain in the summer of 1963. There, Ennis and Jack unexpectedly forge a lifelong connection, filled with joy, tragedy, and love. Academy Award® nominee for Best Supporting Actress Michelle Williams and Anne Hathaway (The Devil Wears Prada) also star in Brokeback Mountain. This two-disc DVD includes exclusive, never-before-seen extras, plus collectible postcards.

The Academy Award®-winning screenplay was adapted by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Larry McMurtry and Diana Ossana from a short story by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Annie Proulx. The film’s Grammy Award®-nominated soundtrack features performances by Willie Nelson, Emmylou Harris and Rufus Wainwright, among other artists.

Brokeback Mountain won three Academy Awards®, including Best Director (Lee), Best Adapted Screenplay (McMurtry & Ossana) and Best Original Score (Gustavo Santaolalla), The DVD is priced at $26.98 SRP; the HD-DVD Combo is $34.98.

New Bonus Features

Brokeback Mountain: 2-Disc Collector’s Edition offers exclusive bonus features, some available for the first time:
· A Groundbreaking Success – In a new documentary, Brokeback Mountain’s producers and cast talk about bringing this unusual story to the screen on their terms. The film also examines the attention garnered by the movie, including the numerous parodies that the story inspired.
· Music From the Mountain – Composer Gustavo Santaolalla, who won an Oscar® for Brokeback Mountain’s emotional score, takes viewers into the sounds of the movie’s music. Includes interviews with each of the featured artists, and a trip to the studio with the legendary Willie Nelson as he records his version of Bob Dylan’s "He Was a Friend of Mine."
· Impressions From the Film – The raw beauty and splendor of the American West are showcased in a photomontage of the film’s sweeping vistas.
· On Being A Cowboy – Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal discuss their preparations for the film, including rodeo and wrangling training. Exclusive on-set interviews with the film’s stunt coordinator are also featured.
· Directing From the Heart: Ang Lee – Oscar®-winning director Ang Lee is profiled in a behind-the-scenes look at how he led the filmmaking team in bringing the story of Brokeback Mountain to life.
· From Script to Screen: Interviews with Larry McMurtry & Diana Ossana – The writers discuss bringing Pulitzer Prize-winning author Annie Proulx’s visionary short story to the screen.
· Sharing the Story: The Making of Brokeback Mountain – This featurette follows the filmmaking process from start to finish and introduces the cast and crew who brought Brokeback Mountain to life through in-depth interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and more.

Critics Proclaim Brokeback Mountain One of Year’s Best Films

Critics everywhere lauded Brokeback Mountain for the fearlessly emotional performances of its stars and its bold treatment of a controversial subject. Peter Travers of Rolling Stone raved, “Hits you like a shot in the heart. This classic in the making ranks high on the list of the year's best movies.” A.M. Homes wrote in Vanity Fair that it was “an instant classic” and Joel Siegel of “Good Morning America” praised it as “The Best Film of the Year!” “Heath Ledger’s wrenching performance is the stuff of Hollywood history,” wrote Manohla Dargis in The New York Times. David Ansen of Newsweek said that Brokeback Mountain is “played with great imploded passion by Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger.”

Synopsis

Winner of three Academy Awards® including Best Director, the movie that became a cultural phenomenon is now available in a remarkable two-disc Collector's Edition. Relive the sweeping epic that explores the lives of two young men (Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal), a ranch hand and a rodeo cowboy, who meet in the summer of 1963 and unexpectedly forge a lifelong connection. With all-new bonus features, never-before-seen footage and highly collectible postcards, this definitive set magnifies the emotion, drama and power of one of cinema's most groundbreaking films.

For more information: www.brokebackmountain.com.

Cast & Filmmakers
Director: Ang Lee
Written By: Larry McMurtry & Diana Ossana, based on the short story by Annie Proulx
Produced By: Diana Ossana, James Schamus
Executive Producers: William Pohlad, Larry McMurtry, Michael Costigan, Michael Hausman
Executive Producer: Alberta Film Entertainment
Co-Producer: Scott Ferguson
Director of Photography: Rodrigo Prieto, A.S.C., A.M.C.
Production Designer: Judy Becker
Edited By: Geraldine Peroni, Dylan Tichenor, A.C.E.
Music By: Gustavo Santaolalla
Costume Designer: Marit Allen
Cast: Heath Ledger, Jake Gyllenhaal, Linda Cardellini, Anna Faris, Anne Hathaway, Michelle Williams, and Randy Quaid

Technical Information
DVD
Street Date: January 23, 2007
Copyright: 2007 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Price: $26.98 SRP (DVD); $34.98 SRP (DVD/HD-DVD Combo)
Selection Number: 62032355
Film Running Time: 2 Hours 14 Minutes
Layers: Disc 1: DVD-9 (Single Sided); Disc 2: DVD-5 (Single Sided)
Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 (Anamorphic Widescreen)
Rating: R (for sexuality, nudity, language and some violence)
Technical Info: English and French Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround; Spanish Dolby Digital 2.0, English SDH; French and Spanish Subtitles

*Academy Award® Winner Best Director (Ang Lee), Best Adapted Screenplay (Larry McMurtry & Diana Ossana) and Best Original Score (Gustavo Santaolalla)
** Academy Award®-nominated for Best Actor (Heath Ledger) and for Best Supporting Actor (Jake Gyllenhaal)


Thursday, January 11, 2007


BeansTalk Talks…To:
Actor Justin Chon


BeansTalk is all about supporting the up and comers. The first young actor we’re promoting is Justin Chon, who stars on the new Nickelodeon series Just Jordan. He’s only been acting two years. Disney Channel fans may recognize him from his co-starring role in Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior. The new series premiered Sunday night. Chon also just finished a starring role opposite Sean William Scott and Randy Quaid in the feature film Gary the Tennis Coach and he will be seen in the upcoming horror-comedy film Hack

Justin Chon answered some not-so-probing questions conducted by BeansTalk's Managing Editor.

BeansTalk: Tell us about your character on Just Jordan.

Justin Chon: My character on Just Jordan is Tony Park. He is the best friend of Jordan. What I love about this role is that it isn't a stereotypical role per se. He does have strict parents and is
a diligent hard working teenager. However, he's not a dork. He's actually a cool kid. The kids at school want to be his friend. He's also the star basketball player for his high school. I really commend Nickelodeon for stepping out of the box and taking a chance on a character like Tony.


BeansTalk: How did you get into acting?

Justin Chon: Well, my father was an actor in South Korea from when he was 10 to 25. My mother's parents didn't approve of him acting so he quit, married my mother and moved to the US. Growing up I used to watch his black and white movies and always had an interest in acting. But being an Asian in the US, I always thought it was impossible for me to pursue the same occupation. I started attending USC for business and decided I would try out a few acting classes with a friend. I fell in love with the craft and decided to enroll in a two-year Meisner program. Upon graduating the program I slowly started to audition and found that it was a doable feat. I'm so glad i took a chance, otherwise I'd probably be a financial consultant or something.

BeansTalk: Do you think it's a challenge for Asian Americans to break into Hollywood?

Justin Chon: It is definitely a challenge for Asian Americans to break into the
entertainment industry. There are many reasons for this. First off, there aren't many Asian Americans on tv presently. So demographically we're not getting the proper exposure. Because of this the demand for Asian Americans actors has stayed low. Also, the common stigma for an Asian Americans in entertainment up to this point has been action martial art stars. This is slowly starting to change, but there is still a huge disparity compared with other minorities who star in dramas. Another huge reason it is hard for Asian Americans to break into entertainment is writers are not conscious of Asian Americans. Therefore they tend to write
stereotypical roles for them such as doctors, lawyers, business execs, immigrants, and store owners. Because of all these factors many Asian-Americans children don’t see it as a possible career and tend to take on more stable types of jobs.

BeansTalk: if you weren't acting what would you be doing?

Justin Chon: If I wasn't acting I would probably be holding some sort of job in the financial sector. But if I blew my lid, I think I might have possibly quit and become a beach bum.

BeansTalk: Who is your role model?

Justin Chon: My role model is definitely my dad. Its a very typical thing to say but I really admire him not just because he's my dad but because he is a great, hard-working person. He left an established life in South Korea so he could marry my mom and start a new life in a completely foreign country. he started a business at the swap meet and has managed to grow it into an empire. To accomplish this he worked 7 days a week for 10 years. Throughout all the hardships he has managed to still be a light hearted loving person.I don't know how he manages to do this.

BeansTalk: What’s a dream day for you?

Justin Chon: A dream day for me would probably begin by having gotten a good 10 hour of sleep. I would get up and eat some pasta and sit on the couch for a few hours watching some indie films.Then I would probably meet up some friends and go to favorite stores, pants each other, and act crazy. We'd then go chill at the beach and watch the sunset and see the little dolphins swimming in the ocean. We'd talk about life, and how we need a girlfriend. Then we'd leave because we'd see like 10 couples sitting around us and I would turn to my friends and say "I love you guys man." After that we'd go to one of our favorite restaurants and eat some good dinner. During dinner we would talk and laugh obnoxiously loud. After dinner we'd watch a movie that my friends pick. My friends hate the movies I pick. After the movie wed go back to the beach start a bonfire and chill out, talk some more, and play the guitar. Then I’d go home and pass out with sand in my hair.

BeansTalk: What’s your dream role?

Justin Chon: A dream role for me would be in an Indie film like paul dano's in little miss sunshine. I would love to work on a movie which has a limited budget but has a director who has a clear unique vision which pushes boundaries. I feel these type of movies attract actors who have huge talents but don't have uncontrollable egos and are willing to sacrifice their paychecks for the love of acting.

BeansTalk: What advice do you have for aspiring actors?

Justin Chon: The best advice I would give for aspiring actors is to learn how to act. Be commited to the craft and don't get side tracked. If you stick with it long enough, the rest will work itself out.

Wednesday, January 10, 2007




From Wallis’ Words
BBC America's Wallis & Edward


Joely Richardson (Nip/Tuck) and Steven Campbell Moore (The History Boys) star as the infamous star-crossed lovers, Wallis Simpson and King Edward VIII. Because of their romance, Edward shockingly became, and remains, the only British monarch in history to resign voluntarily. Wallis & Edward is the first scripted account of the romance from Wallis Simpson’s point of view.

Wallis & Edward premieres Monday, February 12, 9:00 p.m. ET/10:00 p.m. PT.

Wallis and Edward’s story begins in 1931, when Edward, Prince of Wales, meets Wallis, the wife of Ernest Simpson, at a fashionable party. He is instantly infatuated by Wallis and invites the Simpsons everywhere, if only to get closer to Wallis. Being pursued leaves Wallis in an awkward position, but her husband, who fully understands Edward’s intent, loves the limelight and luxury that comes with being friends with royalty. Wallis remains true to her husband but, when he leaves her for another woman, Wallis finally becomes Edward’s mistress.

In 1936, when Edward becomes king after the death of his father, the establishment demands that he leave Wallis. The outspoken, twice-divorced American is an unsuitable match for the King of England. When Edward refuses to give her up, even for the throne, a bitter struggle begins. Obligated from the day he was born to his empire and lineage, his resistance is seen as a ridiculous, selfish weakness — one that simultaneously baffles and infuriates his family and others in power.

As pressure mounts, the Royal Family, the press and the British people demonize Wallis. She begs Edward to remain King, and tells him of her plan to quietly leave the country — disappear for the benefit of everyone involved. Edward refuses, threatening his own life. On December 10, 1936, Edward renounces “the throne for myself and my descendants” in favor of his heart and the woman he loves, becoming the Duke of Windsor.

When Wallis and Edward are finally married in France, not a single member of the Royal Family attends their wedding. They remain in exile from their homeland and forcibly distant from the Windsor family for the remainder of their lives.

Wallis & Edward is sponsored by Infiniti.

WHAT THE BRITISH PRESS SAID:

“Joely Richardson is mesmerisingly good as Wallis” The Sunday Times
“You couldn’t hope for a better tale of star-crossed royal lovers… this is an affecting and richly enjoyable piece of drama” Radio Times
“This two hour treat is classic, unmissable viewing” The Daily Mirror
“Edward is portrayed as a charismatic rebel by Stephen Campbell Moore who gives an authentic performance as a man desperately in love” The Mail on Sunday


CAST AND PRODUCTION CREDITS

Wallis Simpson Joely Richardson (Nip/Tuck)
Ernest Simpson David Westhead (Gideon’s Daughter)
Mary Raffray Lisa Kay (My Uncle Silas)
Thelma Furness Helena Michell (Footballers Wive$)
Edward Stephen Campbell Moore (The History Boys)
Perry Brownlow Simon Hepworth (The Remorseful Day)
Bertie Bill Champion (Messiah)
Elizabeth Monica Dolan (Tipping the Velvet)
Kitty Rogers Debora Weston
Herman Rogers Aleksas Kazanavicius
King George V Clifford Rose
Queen Mary Margaret Tyzack
Aunt Bessie Miriam Margolyes
Winston Churchill David Calder
Stanley Baldwin Richard Johnson
Alex Hardinge Julian Wadham
Maitland Ken Bones
Thewkes Remigijus Bilinskas
Cain Airida Gintautaite
Evans Dalius Mertinas


Casting Director Emma Style
Costume Designer Michael O’Connor
Composer John Keane
Editor Melanie Viner-Cuneo
Director of Photography Mike Eley
Producer Alan Harris, Mark Pybus
Director David Moore
Writer Sarah Williams
Executive Producers George Faber, Charles Pattinson, Nick Witkowski, Simon Vaughan

Tuesday, January 09, 2007


Another BeanTalk Staffer’s
Mineral Make-up Conversion


By Andrea Goodwin, associate editor (agoodwin@beanstalkbiz.com)

Recently, BeansTalk was visiting with a friend and noticed her pretty appearance. She looked great and appeared to be wearing little or no make-up. Upon being asked, she revealed that she only wears i.d. bareMinerals cosmetics. Swears by em’. Okay, somehow this BeansTalk staffer has missed the infomercial. What rock have we been living under? Time to do some homework.

bareMinerals by Bare Escentuals has been a leading and award winning giant in the cosmetics industry since 1995. Most recent accolades include Allure Magazine’s Best of Beauty Award, Glamour Magazine’s Reader’s Choice Award for Best Prestige Foundation, and Best of Sephora 2006 Award.

So, who is the face behind the beauty? It’s Leslie Blodgett, whose formal title is CEO, but is more affectionately known as the “Girlfriend Authority.” She is visible to anyone who tunes into QVC or watches one of their instructional DVDs. She really does seem accessible, because even though she can boast of extensive educational and beauty industry credentials, she is a wife and a mom like the rest of us. She looks gorgeous on television, but I am betting she is fighting the signs of aging like any woman, which gives her street cred. BeanTalk understands she answers her own e-mail. Maybe we’ll drop her a line....

Anyway, we were lucky enough to sample some of their most popular products and really had fun learning a new routine. Here is what you need to know: If you are new to the line, pick up their

Get Started Kit - Medium Beige/Medium
This color choice will work for most skin, although there are other choices for those who are particularly fair or tan or are of African American persuasion. BeansTalk appreciates a good value. If the products in this kit were purchased separately they would cost near two hundred dollars, but as a package it is offered at a reasonable sixty dollars. Not bad! The complete kit contains all the basic products to give your face a solid beauty foundation. You will need to spend a little more to do eyes, lips, and cheeks, but we will save that topic for another day.

The Get Started kit includes:
-Two shades of bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation to ensure the perfect match. (Size: 0.06 oz)
-bareVitamins Skin Rev-er Upper: can be applied daily before applying bareMinerals to rev up your skin
-Mineral Veil: provides a translucent finishing touch to your makeup, infusing it with softness and adding a flawless finish. (Size: 0.06 oz)
-Warmth All Over Face Color: add an instant sun-kissed glow to skin where the sun would naturally touch. (Size: 0.06 oz)
-Flawless Application Brush
-Full Coverage Kabuki Brush
-Maximum Coverage Concealer Brush
- A How-to DVD for tried and true beauty tips from Leslie Blodgett, Bare Escentuals CEO

Now that you have got it, it is time to throw away you traditional liquid and compressed powders and most importantly your Linus-like attachment to them. This beanstalk staffer thought that nothing would ever drag her away from her Lancome foundations. We decided it would be okay to open one’s mind and learn something new. To make sure we were giving the make up a fair chance, we not only watched the entirety of the enclosed “how to” DVD, but trotted the whole lot down to our local BE Boutique and had the girl, Kryss, who was a very sweet twenty-something, help us customize our routine. This is when the conversion took place. When we were done, BeansTalk looked in the mirror and saw a soft, sheer make up, age appropriate for a woman who was a bit older than Kryss, and yes – just as their advertising promises – a glow. The look we are going for is to have someone look at us and not even be sure we are wearing make up. The look must appear natural and effortless, not “painted” or “done.”

To add some extra contouring Kryss and I added the

Natural Light Face Lifting Duo

As per Sephora:
Natural Light is for anyone who ever thought it wasn't possible to look good in every kind of light. It serves as a guiding light to brighten and lift areas of your face regardless of whether you are faced with harsh, fluorescent lights or soft, forgiving light.

The innovative, dual-sized jar holds two unique translucent bareMinerals designed for lighting and lifting areas like the area above the brows, around the folds of the nose, outer corners of the mouth, below the bottom lip, and on the high points of the cheekbones and forehead. For best results, apply Natural Light with the Bare Escentuals Light Stroke Brush.
To use: Apply Well-Lit when you want to shade away shadows around the eyes, nose folds, lip corners, or below the bottom lip; and apply Back-Lit above the brows, on the inner and outer corners of the eye, and on the high points of the face to highlight.

That is exactly what we did. Of note, we added the Well-Lit to the areas where the sun usually would hit us – around the brow and in a line down the bridge of the nose. Well placed darks and lights did sharpen this staffer’s features.

Other advice:
Experiment with color. We had fun using complexion boosters, which are not to be confused with bronzers. Complexion boosters give the appearance of naturally occurring skin colors such as a child’s blush, and add the sought after “dewy” appearance. We especially liked, in spare amounts, the

i.d. bareMinerals All-Over Face Color
i.d. bareMinerals All-Over Face Colors provide a natural luminosity. Sweep these illuminating minerals on your cheeks, forehead, and chin for an instant goddess glow. Our favorite colors: Clear Radiance and Warm Radiance.

Other really cool revelations.

This BeansTalk staffer needs the SPF. We wish we were in the preventative stage, but, alas, that ship sailed along time ago. We have all kinds of skin damage. To be truthful, we are a stage-three melanoma survivor. We can’t take any chances. This staffer is used to applying Neutrogena sunscreen before daily makeup. We hate to say it, but the sunscreen made our skin feel sticky and our powder usually “sat” on top of it. The i.d. bareMinerals Foundations carry the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation. We are appreciative of the beauty boost and the peace of mind.

We were surprised at how “unpowder-y” we looked after the multiple applications of the various products. As a matter of fact, i.d. bareMinerals isn’t really powder. It is crushed minerals. It behaves like a cream and seems to blend in with your skin’s natural oils. Specifically, their foundation’s list of ingredients includes a mere five items: titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, mica, bismuth oxychloride, and iron oxides. Compare that with the fifteen or twenty listed on the bottom of what you are currently using.

Last night, we proudly wore our make up to dinner with the man of the house and vainly asked him not to “muss” us. (He can be kind of an all-over-the-face kisser. Which we normally love, of course.) Anyway, this request turned out not to be necessary, because during the rest of the evening, we had to rescue our seven-year-old daughter from the shower, and hug and kiss our nine-year-old son farewell for a sleep-over. To our surprise, it lasted! As any mom would know, you can not ask your kids to be mindful of your make-up, but still I assumed such a delicate look meant the make up was delicate. It is not. It is durable. Hooray.

So there you go. We swirled , we tapped, and we buffed our way to a better beauty routine. Conversion complete.

Check out the entire line of pure, safe, and high quality i.d. bareMinerals products at www.bareescentuals.com or at www.sephora.com.

Monday, January 08, 2007


More on Mineral Makeup


Look for an upcoming, comprehensive article on our associate editor Andrea Goodwin’s newfound love of Bare Minerals. In the meantime…

Anyone who reads this site knows that we love minerat makeup. We’re already fans of Larenim Mineral Makeup, and we’ve just sampled their pressed foundation, bronzer and concealer.

We initially had doubts on the merit of mineral powder coverup, but Larenim’s is great. If you can choose the appropriate color for your skintone, you’ll be very pleased with the results.

We know this sounds commercially, but mineral makeup is something we think everyone should be using – it looks great and it really is good for your skin, the sunscreen factor alone is worth is.

Here’s what they say on their site and we concur: Larenim makeup is actually more beautiful than traditional makeup. Larenim's minerals are light refractive. This makeup also takes on a "glow" after heating up on your skin, which creates a gorgeous, healthy appearance. 

Larenim mineral makeup is extremely versatile and easy to apply. Foundation, blush, bronzer, concealer, mineral silk (finishers), eye colour, and even a "Goth" collection are all available.

Larenim is made from 100% minerals. Larenim is not drying, irritating or toxic to your skin. No talc, dyes, oils, or chemicals are used which cause enlarging of pores. Talc, which is similar to asbestos, can permanently stretch the pore wall and leach moisture from the skin, yet is used in most commercial makeup including those for oily skin. 

The minerals used by Larenim help to seal moisture in the skin while diffusing oil, and are naturally soothing and can be healing for inflamed skin. These minerals will not harbor bacteria, so they do not proliferate in our containers or on your skin.

Many people believe that all mineral makeups are the same, but this couldn't be further from the truth. It's all about the formulation, attention to detail, and the quality of ingredients.

Note these features about Larenim mineral makeup:

No bismuth oxychloride which is responsible for the greasy, big pored look and the rashes that dissuade many people from continuing using other mineral makeups.
100% minerals instead of minerals with other substances thrown in.

Glowy finish. Some companies use dull, matte minerals which give skin a lifeless, mask-like appearance. You'll never encounter that with Larenim.
Eye colors and blushes suitable for all age ranges. Their colors avoid the sometimes obnoxious "glitter effect" that emphasize fine lines. Instead, Larenim offers a refined luster which refracts light and appears to "de-age" eyes and cheeks.

Larenim mineral makeup:

Truly non-comedogenic. Larenim will not block pores!

No talc. Larenim will not permanently stretch pore walls, as can happen with traditional makeups.

Larenim contains no oils, no fillers, and no FD&C dyes.

Does not "spoil." Minerals will not support bacterial growth as ingredients in conventional makeups can.

Larenim is easy to apply.

It's very natural. Larenim is never mask-like.

Larenim gives skin a beautiful "glow."

Not tested on animals. Larenim makeups are cruelty-free.

Made in U.S.A. 100% owned and operated locally (in Columbus, Ohio.)

Perfect makeup for all skin types. Larenim is appropriate for those with acne, rosacea, lined, sensitive, or post-laser treatment skin.

Larenim contains no Parabens. Parabens have been linked to breast cancer.

The Kind of Brush Off You Want

We were recently introduced to Vox Cosmetics, which offers up essential makeup tools, specifically, they have two signature sets of brushes. The first is a 16-piece professional set, which retails for $305.50.

Not being professionals, we were thrilled with the nine-piece Brush Set, which includes everything the average woman needs. Brush Set includes: Powder Brush 1, Blush Brush 2, Foundation Brush 4, Blending Crease Brush 6, Eye Contour Brush 8, Shader Brush 9, MD Shader Brush 12, Brow Brush 14, Lip Brush 16, & Standard 9 Piece Brush Case. Priced at about $200.

The Standard 9 Piece Brush Set includes the essential brushes required to create great makeup results. The set was designed for convenience & accessibility in a smaller case. Perfect for the woman on the go.

We’ve recently had to have our makeup done professionally, and the brushes in the Vox set are exactly what the pros have used on us. The quality is evident, too. Makeup artists for Tori Spelling and SAG nominee Jaime Pressley used them on their clients and now Spelling and Pressley use them, too. Spelling apparently picked up several sets to gives as gifts for the recent holidays.

Vox Cosmetics closes the gap between makeup artist and consumer by providing the essential tools and education. Vox is dedicated to helping consumers make the most of their own potential to achieve professional makeup results. www.voxcosmetics.com

Friday, January 05, 2007


Stone Sizzles

Cast member Sharon Stone arrives for the premiere of the movie 'Alpha Dog,' Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2007, in Los Angeles. Stone wore designer Rachel Roy's sleek Layla turtleneck and Ruth trench. Stone has recently had deal with a bevy of questions from reporters, who want to know the status of her relationship with 11-years-younger Christian Slater, her co-star in Bobby, who she has been seen holding hands. Stone, a divorcee, is mother to three adopted boys. (AP Photo/Danny Moloshok)

Thursday, January 04, 2007


















Hot Gladiators
Troy Makes Basic Cable Debut

The Hallmark Channel airs the basic cable TV premiere of the 2004 epic (nearly three-hours-long) Troy, starring Brad Pitt, Eric Bana, Orlando Bloom, Diane Kruger, Sean Bean, Brian Cox and Peter O'Toole.

Throughout time, men have waged war. Some for power, some for glory, some for honor--and some for love. In ancient Greece, the passion of two of history's most legendary lovers--Paris, Prince of Troy and Helen, Queen of Sparta--ignites a war that will devastate a civilization. When Paris steals Helen away from her husband, King Menelaus, it is an insult that cannot be suffered. Familial pride dictates that an affront to Menelaus is an affront to his brother Agamemnon, powerful King of the Myceneans, who soon unites all the massive tribes of Greece to steal Helen back from Troy in defense of his brother's honor. In truth, Agamemnon's pursuit of honor is corrupted by his overwhelming greed--he needs control of Troy to ensure the supremacy of his already vast empire. The walled city, under the leadership of King Prium and defended by mighty Prince Hector, is a citadel that no army has been able to breach. One man alone stands as the key to victory or defeat over Troy--Achilles, believed to be the greatest warrior alive. Arrogant, rebellious and seemingly invincible, Achilles has no allegiance to anyone or anything, save his own glory. It is his insatiable hunger for eternal renown that leads him to attack the gates of Troy under Agamemnon's banner--but it will be love that ultimately decides his fate. Two worlds will go to war for honor and power. Thousands will fall in pursuit of glory. And for love, a nation will burn to the ground.

Troy airs 9 p.m. (8 p.m. c.) on 27 January 2007 on The Hallmark Channel.

Wednesday, January 03, 2007

They Love Their Choos, Part 1


Ginnifer Goodwin

Ginnifer Goodwin, of HBO's Big Love, wore Jimmy Choo's purple Kennedy shoe to the Vanity Fair/Dolce & Gabbana event. Goodwin is dating Katie Holmes' ex, Chris Klein.

They Love Their Choos, Part 2


Jessica Biel

Jessica Biel wore Jimmy Choo's Black Toto shoe to the Vanity Fair/Dolce & Gabbana event.

They Love Their Choos, Part 3


Monet Mazur


Monet Mazur chose Choos for the Vanity Fair/Dolce & Gabbana event.

They Love Their Choos, Part 4



Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore slipped on some Jimmy Choos at the premiere of "We Are Marshall."

Friday, December 22, 2006


Happy Holidays and a Prosperous New Year!


BeansTalk is going on holiday (literally and figuratively) through 2 January, 2007. We'll (the ME and immediate staff) be out of the country so we won't be able to keep up our daily posts, but we'll be back with a vengeance right at the dawn of 2007.

As you might have noticed, we're trying to enhance our coverage with not only the what and where, but adding the whys. Translated, that means we're editorializing, with shades of reviews of many items we post here.

We hope you've had a fantastic year. It was very eventful for us, full of epiphanies.

Join us in welcoming the addition this year of two new staff members. PR reps: Please feel free to send them pitches (if your pitch is accepted, send text only with a lo-res jpeg).

Andrea Goodwin, associate editor (agoodwin@beanstalkbiz.com)
Beth Zerilli, contributing editor (bzerilli@beanstalkbiz.com)

Peace to everyone.
You can double click on the image above to see all the beautiful vintage holiday postcard images.

Thursday, December 21, 2006

Happy Holidays From Our Classic TV Memory File

Gumby

We know. Most people now think of Eddie Murphy and "Gumby, damnit." But we really liked the show and had several Gumbys and Pokeys, although we have to admit we much prefered Pokey.

We actually are nearing the end of our (seemingly endless, we know) blog-walk through memory lane. We apparently watched a TON of TV. Here are some shows we didn't put on the original lists but that doesn't diminish how much we liked 'em.
Felix the Cat

Super memorable theme song, loveable cat. We were quite happy when Film Roman remade it in the early 1990s.