Out of Ogilvy in Chicago comes what Creativity deemed in their headline as the "cutest, saddest makeover" and I had to share it. It's not what you'd expect as you watch it (at least I didn't). A strong message and a simple well executed spot.
Recently hiked Feather Falls, CA snapping some shots and really getting to enjoy the scenery. It's up in Oroville, I believe in Butte County, roughly 3+ hours north from San Francisco. It's worth it with different trail options depending on your desired effort, but the falls are incredible whichever route to them you choose. Here are some shots I threw on Instagram post-hike.
Yes, they are many friends of mine here in San Francisco, but I'm also talking about a new venture that has taken off into the soft stages of development and will be a very fulfilling and exciting project for me (and all those involved). A locally based, custom cocktail bitters and culinary extracts company, The Bitter Queens. Embodying a San Francisco attitude, we're creating epic concoctions and extracts while serving you queen-style sass. I couldn't be more excited to be a part of this, no doubt, phenomenal journey that will be just the start to many great things.
Im sure you've heard about all the A&F controversy around their-not-so-handsome-himself-caveman-related CEO and his ridiculous reason to why he does and promotes the brand the way he does (in order to keep the "cool kids" wearing his shitty clothes).
I applaude Greg Karber and his efforts to recycle (and not burn) the old A&F apparel by clothing those in need, the homeless. While I support someone owning and operating their business the way they see fit – I mean it is their business – when I heard that they burn the clothes, instead of donating, it pushed me over the edge. You can do what you want... to an extent. I dont have to support your brand if I don't agree, it's my right. But when your decisions become downright wasteful and untactful, it goes without saying that you've lost my support (for the record, you never had it A&F). I will personally be nabbing every piece of A&F I find and promptly distributing or donating to homeless shelters.
Check out Greg's brief video below documenting his first efforts to change the brand. Seriously go grab those garments and get them into the hands of those in need. Very interesting how social media has an impact. Something that was never a part of our everyday years ago. Also, how the consumer can take the brand image into their own hands. It'll be interesting to see how this develops and it definitely got my attention.
....BUT on a lighter note, all this A&F talk reminds me of the old Mad TV skits. Check some of them out if you haven't seen them.. and really, it provides good fodder about all this nonsense and continues to shine light on this ridiculous brand.
I have a ton of respect for those individuals who can do drag and frankly, those who do it well. It takes commitment, creativity and some serious patience to go through that transformation daily. I wanted to post the performance I saw in my Facebook feed from the recent RuPaul's Drag Race winner, Jihnx Monsoon. Why? Because she looks great, she's her campy self and does a wonderful performance at the GLAAD awards... do I need another reason?
And 2 of 2 videos I wanted to share. This hits home to many and you'll understand when you see the content. A wonderfully visual statement, powerful creation and flawlessly executed performance. Grab your tissues, open your eyes, and experience this with your heart. You won't regret it. Oh, and the song is amazing, so I threw down a link to Emeli Sande's song, cause if you didn't know who it was, I'm sure you'll want to after the video. Now go, click play.
Song performed by Emili Sande, and alone this piece is gorgeous.
