http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/the_it_girl/ The woman's guide to living, loving and relationships en sassybeaneditor@sassybean.com Copyright 2008 08 22 2008-08-22T00:01:00-05:00 http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/poppy_king_the_lipstick_queen/Tamsen Fadal http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/poppy_king_the_lipstick_queen/Tamsen Fadal#When:05:06:00Z Got a big date and looking for sensual lips...look no further...Why She’s An "It" Girl The Australian lipstick addict, Poppy King, is the creator of a posh new lipstick only line called Lipstick Queen. Poppy is no newcomer to the world of lips. After feeling frustrated that she wasn’t able to find the perfect red matte shade at the tender age of 18, she created her first lipstick line called Poppy. The company lasted 12 years until she decided to close up shop and move to New York City for a job opportunity at Prescriptives. After three and half years there working on products and packaging, she decided to go out on her own once again and go back to her roots - creating the perfect lipstick. Hence the creation of Lipstick Queen. This line is unique, fun and innovative. It is comprised of ten different shades available in two very different formulations. What Inspires Her? My mothers closet in about 1979 when I was seven years old. I just adored playing dress up. To me it was the most glamorous place in the world. I loved pretending to be a glamorous woman and still do! Everything I do is still inspired by the same notion that I had as a little girl--that being a female is so glamorous! Her It Girl picks: I am obsessed with buying vintage on eBay, particularly Ferragamo shoes and ‘8O’s "secretary" dresses. My closet is groaning full of both. That is what I will be wearing this summer.  Who does she consider an "It" Girl? Anyone who wears red lipstick, whether they be a celebrity or soccer mom. Red lips say "It" Girl loud and clear.  For more on Poppy King, visit her Web site: http://www.lipstickqueen.com Sassy Stuff, "It" Girl Spotlight 2008-08-07T05:06:00-05:00 http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/why_hasnt_he_called/sassybean http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/why_hasnt_he_called/sassybean#When:05:04:00Z How Guys Really Think & How To Get The Right Guy Interested In You... Husband and wife duo, Matt Titus and Tamsen Fadal don’t mince words in their new book, Why Hasn’t He Called? How Guys Really Think And How To Get The Right One Interested In You is a wake up call to the behaviors, challenges and mistakes that lead single women to waste countless hours on men that aren’t worth the investment. Stop sitting by the phone wondering why your latest date hasn’t called...next time make sure he does. About The Authors: Matt Titus & Tamsen Fadal A self-proclaimed traitor to his gender, Matt Titus has made it his mission to help women avoid players like his former self. He is the founder of Matt’s Little Black Book, a Manhattan matchmaking agency, Tamsen Fadal is an Emmy-award winning TV journalist and works alongside Matt in their quest to help singles navigate the often times confusing and crazy world of dating. BUY THE BOOK EXCERPT FROM “WHY HASN’T HE CALLED?” SECRETS OF THE BOYS CLUB Somewhere in Manhattan a first date is taking place at a trendy lounge over drinks. Here are the undisputed facts: •Both parties are interested in each other on some level. •They agreed on a time and location. In the world of dating and relationships, this is about as far as undisputed facts go when it comes to a man and woman meeting for the first time. We have her version and we have his version of the first date. Let’s compare the two. ••••••Her Version•••••• He was right on time and already had a table (he must have called ahead because it was the best table in the place, that’s thoughtful; he must think I’m special.) He looked really good. I wonder how he had time to go home, shower, shave, change clothes, and still get here on time. He did that all for me, wow. The conversation was effortless; he seemed to be interested in every word I had to say. He kept asking me if I needed anything more to drink, what a gentleman! He is so responsible; he told me that he only had until 10 p.m. because he had an early morning presentation. I love a guy with a career focus. He mentioned his parents, so he is definitely not opposed to marriage. When the date ended we even walked for a while talking about anything that popped into our heads, it was so romantic. When it was time for him to go in the other direction, he looked me right in the eyes and told me he had a great time and would call me soon. He leaned over to kiss me, and I turned my cheek. I remembered to never kiss on a first date, so he just smiled and said good night. What a wonderful end to a perfect date! I can’t wait for him to call. ••••••His Version•••••• I was on my way home last night when I remembered that I had promised to meet this girl after work. I was going to cancel, but what the hell; you never know what could happen. Luckily, I had my overnight stuff in the trunk from the past weekend, which I spent romping with some chick I sleep with upstate. So, I grabbed my electric razor and ran it over my face and then put on a semi-clean Polo shirt and my two-day-old jeans, not bad for changing in the backseat! I actually got there 10 minutes early. The place was packed, so I thought me and whatever-her-name-was would have to stand.  Then I remembered: “Oh yeah, her name is Sheila, can’t forget that. Damn!” I was about to walk up to the bar when I noticed how hot the hostess was, so I thought I would strike up a conversation. This girl was so awesome, not only did I get her number; she gave me the best table in the place. Sheila showed up and yeah, she was attractive, but not as hot as I had remembered. God, what was I thinking when I agreed to this date? I must have been hammered. She talked so much I think that I went into a hypnotic trance while I was staring her dead in the face.  I tried to get her drunk, but she wasn’t a drinker.  I was in the flames of hell with a mediocre yapper.  I had no other choice but to play the “big presentation at work” card. It worked like a charm.  I thought I would make a clean break until she kept following me almost back to my place. I couldn’t lose her! Finally, I picked a random street that was close to my apartment, just to get away from her. When I stopped to say good-bye, she actually didn’t look half bad.  It must have been the street light hitting her face at just the right angle.  So I thought, “What the hell, she probably doesn’t look that bad from behind either.” Maybe if I kissed her passionately she might get turned on enough for me to take her back to my place. As I went to kiss her she “cheeked” me. I couldn’t believe it. Well, that was the last straw.  I told her I’d give her a call…yeah right. Does this scenario sound familiar? It should, because it happens more times in the land of Singleville than we care to admit. Every week, Tamsen and I talk to dozens of women who ask us the same questions over and over again: What is he thinking?  Does he like me?  WHY HASN’T HE CALLED?! In this chapter you will become privy to some of the best kept secrets of the Boys Club, like the two categories men use to define every woman they meet. (That’s right, there are only two. We’re not all that complicated.) In addition, we’ll spend some time dissecting “The First Date,” to point out all of the red flags that were waiving in that poor gal’s face. Finally, we’ll give you a cheat sheet that describes each of the different kinds of players you’ll be up against as you take to the field. And throughout this chapter and the chapters that follow, whenever a potential pitfall crops up, we’ll provide you with a tried-and-true solution to the dilemma. Sassy Stuff, SassyBean Bookbag 2008-08-07T05:04:00-05:00 http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/peeing_in_peace_by_beth_feldman_and_yvette_manessis_corporon/sassybean http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/peeing_in_peace_by_beth_feldman_and_yvette_manessis_corporon/sassybean#When:00:00:00Z Hey all you Type A Moms, listen up, you are not alone!Peeing In Peace is a confessional tome by two working moms offering an unconventional look at the work/life balance. The non-fiction self-published book, written by television network executive Beth Feldman and Emmy-winning entertainment producer Yvette Corporon, who are also the co-founders of www.Rolemommy.com, has sold thousands of copies since it was first released in January 2007 and has garnered acclaim from some of the country’s most famous working mothers. Peeing in Peace is the perfect companion for the mom on the go who can only steal a moment to herself when she’s behind the doors of a bathroom stall.  A veritable play-date for your purse, the book is filled with the authors’ personal stories, resourceful information and humorous parenting tips on managing the daily juggle, as well as tales of the famous friends and other frenzied moms who have touched their lives.  Some incredible and well-known women have joined the steady stream of praise for Peeing in Peace, including blogging sensation Arianna Huffington, real estate magnate Barbara Corcoran, Emmy Award-winning “CSI” star Marg Helgenberger, “CSI: Miami” star Eva LaRue, veteran New York newscaster Donna Hanover and Betsey Johnson, among others. Peeing in Peace features cover art illustration by Design-Her Gals (www.designhergals.com), a successful online stationery business with over 150,000 subscribers that is best known for their eye-catching custom cartoons of women.  A donation from the sale of each book will benefit the Gal to Gal Foundation - a charity established by Design-Her Gals which assists patients battling Stage IV breast cancer.  The book is now available for sale directly through the Design-her Gals website at www.designhergals.com. About The Authors Beth Feldman Beth Feldman is currently President of BeyondPR, an entertainment public relations consulting firm specializing in multi-platform image and branding campaigns for authors, websites, television and fundraising projects. Previously, Feldman was Vice President, CBS Communications Group, where she spearheaded publicity campaigns connected to programming-related initiatives for the CBS Marketing Group, cbs.com and CBS Consumer Products.  In this position, Feldman worked with publicists at CBS and CBS Enterprises to develop and implement campaigns that publicized marketing, web site, licensing and merchandising activities by integrating these initiatives into the show publicity process.  During her nearly 10-year career with CBS, Feldman has worked on publicity campaigns on behalf of CSI, COLD CASE, EVERYBODY LOVES RAYMOND, JUDGING AMY, THE AMAZING RACE and THE KING OF QUEENS, the movies “Hitler: Rise of Evil,” “The Elizabeth Smart Story” and “Gleason” and the specials “CMA Awards” and “ACM Awards.” Feldman is also a freelance writer who has written human-interest features for several New York based publications including Newsday, Westchester Parent magazine, Big Apple Parent and New York Family and Westchester Family magazine as well as the popular website, The Huffington Post. Before joining CBS, Beth worked at a number boutique and high profile public relations agencies where she was involved in publicity efforts for both prime time and syndicated television shows (“The X Files,” “The Maury Povich Show,” and “Ricki Lake,” among others); the opening of the Sony IMAX theater in New York City; monthly magazines (Architectural Digest; The Source) and major corporations (Johnson & Johnson). Feldman is also co-founder of Role Mommy, an online community and lifestyle brand for today’s working mothers.  Role Mommy has produced events at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan and the Westchester County Center, featuring women at the top of their career balancing work and family; developed a website www.rolemommy.com designed to inspire and entertain moms with stories of women who have reinvented their lives, as well as laugh out loud blogs that celebrate the work/life balance.  The Role Mommy mantra is one of hope and fulfillment:  “A Role Mommy knows that helping her children realize their hopes and dreams doesn’t mean she has to give up on her own.” Beth Feldman is a board member for Love Our Children USA, the leading national non-profit organization that honors, respects, and protects children.  Love Our Children USA promotes prevention strategies and positive changes in parenting and family attitudes through public education. Feldman holds a masters degree in journalism from New York University and graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst (B.A., communications). Yvette Manessis Corporon Yvette Manessis Corporon is an Emmy Award winning television writer and producer.  She currently is Senior Segment Producer for the syndicated entertainment show, EXTRA.  Yvette is also the co-creator of Role Mommy, the online community and lifestyle brand for working mothers. Yvette began her broadcast career as an Assignment Editor and Producer for FOX 5 NEWS in New York.  While at FOX 5, Yvette won an Emmy award for Best Multi Part News Story for her investigative series which helped parents protect children from pedophiles on the internet.  While at FOX 5, Yvette also earned four other Emmy nominations as well as a Silurian Award for Excellence in Journalism. After spending eight ears at FOX, Yvette was recruited by WCBS News in New York to run their News Assignment Desk.  As Chief Assignment Editor, Yvette was responsible for all breaking news and news gathering for four daily live news shows as well as overseeing a staff of reporters and crews.  While at WCBS, Yvette also helped launch a live news and entertainment news show called “New York Live”, where she served as Editorial Producer. Yvette took a break from full time new producing when her daughter, Christiana, was born in 2001.  She spent several years as a freelance producer and counted “Good Morning America”, Associated Press Television, CBS Entertainment and UPN Television among her many clients.  During her stint as a freelancer, Yvette wrote and produced for many well known news and television personalities including, Diane Sawyer, Charles Gibson., Robin Roberts, Leeza Gibbons and Tyra Banks. Today, Yvette has joined the staff of “EXTRA” where she covers the word of celebrities and entertainment news.  She married to Emmy Award winning photojournalist, Dave Corporon , and is the mother of two small children, a five year old daughter, Christiana and three year old son, Nicholas.  In her non-existent spare time, Yvette has built a company and on-line community geared towards today’s busy working mother. As co-founder of “Role Mommy”, Yvette has appeared on WPIX-Television as well as WCBS –TV, where she offers advice and inspiration for busy moms juggling their careers and their children.  In addition, Yvette is the co-creator of the Role Mommy: I Need a Play-date lecture series for mothers at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan.  ABOUT NK PUBLICATIONS NK Publications (nkpublications.com) is a New York based publisher founded in the year 2000. NK Publications recently released the new children’s book titled Growing Up With Loukoumi by Nick Katsoris (which includes a narrated CD featuring the voices of Gloria Gaynor, Olympia Dukakis, Constantine Maroulis, Alexis Christoforous, and Frank Dicopoulos). Other recent releases include “I Get Knocked Down: A Women’s Survival Guide to Business and Life” by Eva Kalivas and an upcoming series of children’s books about a television news reporter. ABOUT THE GAL TO GAL FOUNDATION The Gal to Gal Foundation honors the dignity and courage of the women diagnosed with Stage IV, and forges a global community of caring, intelligent women who want to make a positive difference in the lives of others.  In many case, The Gal to Gal Foundation is a voice for those who may lose the fight but whose courage can inspire us all. Jeanne Fitzmaurice, founder of Design-her Gals™, was personally affected by this disease when two women close to her fought so bravely, and whose openness about the process of living with, and dying from, this illness enabled her to witness firsthand the challenges and opportunities of a life-altering disease. Jeanne discovered that although many wonderful organizations support breast cancer research, prevention and treatment for early stages, minimal dollars are dedicated to Stage IV needs. The reality is, until breast cancer is extinguished in all forms, there will be those who do not respond to the treatments that are currently available. Jeanne’s mantra of “Purpose before personal profitability” has allowed her to ironically create a for-profit company that has pledged to raise $1,000,000 over the next three years.  The Gal to Gal Foundation has committed to dedicated its funds to Making Memories, an organization that exclusively grants wishes for Stage IV patients and their families as well as agreeing to help sponsor a global web site designed to support Stage IV resources. Design-her Gals is spreading this compelling message through national media and celebrity attention and through the viral support a community that has grown to more than 150,000 in 2006, increasing over 10% per month with an expected community of 250,000 by July 2007. Through Jeanne’s dedication and business savvy, Design-her Gals will increase awareness of those diagnosed in Stage IV breast cancer, and play a role in supporting hundreds of thousands of patients each year struggling to live out their lives with dignity. Sassy Stuff, SassyBean Bookbag 2008-07-31T00:00:00-05:00 http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/starring_you_the_book/Tamsen Fadal http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/starring_you_the_book/Tamsen Fadal#When:12:00:00Z Insiders' Guide to Using Television & Media to Launch Your Brand, Your Business, and Your Life It’s no surprise that American Idol was the hottest show of the season. It seems that everyone today wants to be a star, and as media pros know, there are more television segments than people to fill them-it’s hard to find great guests or talent who can convey an interesting message in an exciting, energetic way. Veteran television executives Marta Tracy (a Sassy Bean IT GIRL!) and Terence Noonan will change that with STARRING YOU! The Insiders’ Guide to Using Television and Media to Launch Your Brand, Your Business, and Your Life with Karen Kelly and a Foreword by Food Network star, Paula Deen. What’s so great about STARRING YOU is that the book features so many smart and successful women who have learned to focus their talents and expand them by learning to embrace the media. Some of the powerful females spotlighted in the book include Diane Sawyer, Nancy Grace and Paula Deen, as well as producers from several top-rated programs and networks, publicists from elite agencies, marketing experts, and many more. There are thousands of ordinary men and women, as well as PR professionals, business owners big and small, and medical and legal experts, etc., who have untapped potential to use television effectively to enhance their business, to get a particular message out, or to simply expand the horizon’s of their life, while simultaneously entertaining and informing viewers. In STARRING YOU! the authors lay out a clear, step-by-step strategy to get the reader’s personality, expertise, ideas, or product on television and parlay it into recognition, and even a career on or off the screen! STARRING YOU! also provides an all-access pass to some of the most sought after media pros in the business and gathers advice you would have to pay media consultants thousands of dollars for, if you could get past the front desk. Even if you don’t want to be on TV, the principles in STARRING YOU! can help you become the star of your own life and achieve personal goals - from heading up a charity event, to winning a seat on a community board, to getting a promotion. This is the only book of its kind on the market, and is written by the very producers who have helped countless people achieve their dreams by using the power of television. Smart, innovative, and packed with insider information, STARRING YOU! is an entertaining and insightful must-have guide for stars-to-be.  About The Authors: Marta Tracy heads her own media company, Marta Tracy Entertainment, Inc, where she works as a TV Strategist developing businesses and entrepreneurs on television. Tracy launched and created The Style Network as SVP of Programming and was VP of Talent and Development for E! Entertainment Television for ten years. Most recently, she worked for Sony Pictures Television in daytime talk show syndication. She has developed content for Matt Lauer, Elizabeth Hasselbeck, and Howard Stern, among others. Terence Noonan is a four time Emmy Award winning producer. His most recent position was as the co-executive producer of The Morning Show with Mike and Juliet, syndicated by Twentieth Television Nationwide. Over a ten-year career in lifestyle television, Terence has produced hundreds of successful lifestyle, business, reality, brand, and celebrity segments for such shows as The Rosie O’Donnell Show, Isaac Mizrahi and Life and Style. He also worked for two years in Daytime Development at Sony Pictures TV. For more information on STARRING YOU! visit: Starring You!: The Insiders’ Guide to Using Television and Media to Launch Your Brand, Your Business, and Your Life SassyBean Bookbag 2008-07-28T12:00:00-05:00 http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/jennifer_pierce_jenuine_concepts_qvc_guest_host/Tamsen Fadal http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/jennifer_pierce_jenuine_concepts_qvc_guest_host/Tamsen Fadal#When:08:59:00Z Jennifer Pierce makes things happen!Who Is Jennifer Pierce? First and foremost, I am a mother of two amazing children, a 3 year old and an 8 month old.  I am also a business owner, consultant and spokeswoman.  I enjoy being a mom and an entrepreneur and am learning daily the many facets of both. BIO: My career in television started over 14 years ago at QVC. A graduate from West Chester University, I developed a passion for TV, marketing and sales. While at QVC, I learned the power of television sales along side of some of the hottest names in the industry. As a Producer and TV Sales Manager, my main focus was developing strategies for new and upcoming items and new brands. In 2003 I made the decision to leave QVC and start consulting. As a featured speaker at the Learning Annex in NYC and co-owner of Jenuine Concepts, I share my experience and am dedicated to bringing innovative ideas to market. In addition, I can be seen selling must haves for men and women everywhere as a guest host on QVC. What Inspires You? Knowledge Humbleness Appreciation My daughter: a future “ It Girl” and at age 3, she knows what she wants – to be a princess of course!!!  She will tell you how it is and then give you a big huge and kiss.  The innocence is inspiring and the confidence is contagious.  She is not afraid to get dirty or pick up a bug but loves a frilly pink dress and sparkly shoes!  It is the simple things in life that make her laugh so hard it hurts, whether is a little tickle or a quick game of hide and seek, it reminds me of what is really important. SassyBean.com LOVES beauty secrets! Tell us the beauty products or things in life that you cannot do without! OPI nail color called Bubble Bath Malani Crystal lipgoss in Whisper – inexpensive, perfect texture, just the right size for a pocket or purse Purity Face Cleanser by Philosphy Rusk Shine Spray for hair Clinique- moisturizer for the face w SPF Calvin Klein (old school) super soft and worn out jeans My flip flops from old navy Who do you consider an “It Girl”? My mom.  She always looks put together morning, noon and night.  You will never catch her on an off day!!!  She is someone who is genuine, takes pride in herself, her home and her family.  She is patient and always kind and the type of person who will do something nice when you least expect it and want nothing in return.  Reese Witherspoon- she stays under the Radar and out of the media spotlight.  She has achieved fame, garnered critical praise and won many awards all the while staying dedicated to her children.  All of this success and still seems down to earth.  An It Girl to me is someone that doesn’t automatically react to an ugly situation.  She keeps her cool and then tackles whatever it may be with a clear head.  It is someone that can put things into perspective and takes time to assess the situation.  She is not judgmental and is a great listener.  And did I mention: Looks great in a comfy pair of jeans, flip flops and a super soft t-shirt!  What’s new in your life?  I am about to launch a new line of T-shirts (Tattease).  We are planning on having them available by July 2008 @ www.tattease.com.  I am also getting ready for a bunch of QVC appearances in June selling a new Pet item.  Tune in or check out www.qvc.com to find out the dates and times of The Pet Shop.  Sassy Stuff, "It" Girl Spotlight 2008-07-26T08:59:00-05:00 http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/the_secret_of_the_secret_by_karen_kelly/karenkelly http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/the_secret_of_the_secret_by_karen_kelly/karenkelly#When:12:00:00Z The book that unlocks the mysteries of the runaway bestseller: The Secret... The law of attraction: You can reach any goal, acquire anything you want, and attain perfect health simply by thinking positive thoughts about your heart’s desires. On the other hand, negative thoughts can darken your door with failure, sickness, and loss. While this simplistic belief is not new, and some might even call it hackneyed, is at the heart of Rhonda Byrne’s mega-bestseller, The Secret.  The media and consumers flocked to her book and DVD, landing both atop bestseller lists around the globe. As you read this, publishers are rushing to put out similar self-help titles in hopes of quenching what seems to be the public’s insatiable thirst for magical success formulas. When something gets the general populace stirred up it this much, it has to be taken seriously: why this book, why this concept, and why now?  Acclaimed author Karen Kelly sets out to answer this phenomenon in her new book, The Secret of The Secret: Unlocking the Mysteries of the Runaway Bestseller. Kelly breaks her examination of The Secret into three parts. The first examines how Byrne’s work became so popular – experts in publishing and journalism weigh in why the DVD and book struck such a chord and what relevance it has to today’s social and political climate. The second section breaks down the law of attraction’s historical, scientific and religious aspects. Kelly delves deeply into historical records and talks to experts from theology, psychology and quantum physics to reveal where the law of attraction originally came from and what’s credible and incredible about the claims Byrne makes about it. Was it “buried” by the powerful so the common man could not access the law’s power? Does science “prove” the law of attraction is fact? Did Jesus believe in it? In the final section, Kelly looks at 9 historical figures mentioned in The Secret as using the law of attraction to discover if whether they actually did. They range from William Shakespeare to Albert Einstein, from Ludwig van Beethoven to Andrew Carnegie.  Among her discoveries, Kelly found that many of the quotes attributed to these great figures by Byrne in The Secret, words that seemingly support their belief in the law of attraction, were either taken out of context, misinterpreted, or were never actually uttered by these legendary men. The Secret book has spurred unbridled and passionate feelings on both sides of the argument.  Critics have skewered its materialistic themes while fans establish websites and blogs so they can swap tales of miraculous successes. The Secret of the Secret’s sober-minded, provocative, and in-depth look at both sides of The Secret’s message and meaning will surely generate further debate among law of attraction practitioners and nay-sayers alike. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Karen Kelly is a prolific author and journalist.  She has collaborated on a number of non-fiction books, including Get Serious About Getting Married and Staring You!: The Insiders’ Guide to Using Television and Media to Launch Your Brand, Your Business and Your Life.  She has written articles for The New York Times, Natural Health Magazine, Yoga Journal, and The Wall Street Journal.  Kelly also worked as a Senior Editor at Warner Books and was Editorial Director of Daybreak Books, Rodale’s personal growth imprint, acquiring titles by Montel Williams, Darcy O’Brien, and Victoria Moran.  She lives in Brooklyn, New York.  Sassy Stuff, SassyBean Bookbag 2008-07-25T12:00:00-05:00 http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/patti_reilly/sassybean http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/patti_reilly/sassybean#When:12:00:00Z Patti Reilly knows how to sell her stuff... In May of 2000, Patti Reilly joined QVC as a program host, a job that allows her to present product information and interact with guests on the air. Before joining QVC, Patti was a training specialist and retail shift manager at Foxwoods Resort and Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut.  What makes you an It Girl? What defines an “It Girl” anyway? If she is someone who enjoys the “perks” of being a woman (and there are tons of perks!), embraces all of the unique & quirky things about herself, has more beauty product in her bathroom than the stockroom of Sephora, and feels like she can rule the world thanks to her new smashbox “couture” lip gloss (what a fab-o color!), then yes, I am an “It Girl”! It’s not about “having it all” (what would that be anyway?), it’s about striving for more, being the best person you can be and fueling everything and anything you do with passion and enthusiasm. What inspires you? I’m inspired by people who lead big yet simple lives.  People who listen more and talk less, lift you up and make you want to be a better person, and people who aren’t so quick to judge yet remain open-minded and above all, kind-hearted.  I work hard on this daily...it’s not easy!  Asking myself the question “Is it better to be right, or to be kind?” helps keep me focused on what’s important. What are your It Girl picks? I absolutely love WEN cleansing conditioners by Chaz Dean!!! I’m also a huge fan of Tarte mascara called “Lights, Camera, Lashes” and any of the Buxom Lip Polish colors by Bare Escentuals. Who do you consider an “It Girl”? Kate Hudson.  She is smart, funny, beautiful and effortless! Sassy Stuff, "It" Girl Spotlight 2008-07-24T12:00:00-05:00 http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/judy_goss_author_of_break_into_modeling_for_under_20/sassybean http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/judy_goss_author_of_break_into_modeling_for_under_20/sassybean#When:12:00:00Z From A Ford Fashion Model To A Fabulous "It" Girl... Tell us a little bit about yourself. I’m the author of “Break Into Modeling for Under $20” published by St. Martin’s Press, in bookstores July, 2008.  It is currently being pre-sold on Amazon.com and several other national book websites like Barnes and Noble and Border’s. I began my career in the fashion/entertainment industry 20 years ago as a high fashion model for Ford Models in New York City.  I have lived all over the world shooting campaigns for clients like Armani and Nivea and worked for international fashion magazines such as Elle and Marie Claire. I later went on to become an agent at New York Models and Ford NY for several years in their high fashion divisions and also worked as a casting director and producer for photo shoots as well as a bookings editor at Cosmopolitan Magazine all in New York City. I am currently bookings and castings editor at More Magazine in New York City while also filming television lifestyle segments and speaking across the country about the modeling industry, and at home I am the mother of identical twin girls who are 3 years old. What Inspires You? New York City inspires me!  The feel of the energy in the city, and the friends and contacts I’ve made here are incredible. The people that make up New York City are diverse and interesting, and everyone has a unique life story.  I feel that every day takes me in a new direction, and it inspires me to be creative and to push myself to my maximum potential, whether it is in business or motherhood. SassyBean.com LOVES beauty secrets! Tell us the beauty products or things in life that you cannot do without! I cannot live without my Shiseido eyelash curler – even my husband doesn’t see me without my eyelashes curled! I wear Cover Girl Lipslicks every day, the best thing about it is you don’t need a mirror to apply, and it shows color on your lips but is still sheer.  It also makes a great stand-in blush for emergencies! Lancôme’s Maquicomplet cover-up in “Light Buff” – it hides the circles underneath my eyes when I have 14-hour workdays, then wake-up early to twin toddlers! Who do you consider an “It Girl”? My friend Jen Groover is who I consider to be the ultimate “IT” girl!  I strive to be the kind of woman that she is every day.  She is the CEO of her multi-million dollar handbag company (the Butler Bag), published a book, created and launched two television shows, has a blog for aspiring entrepreneurs and volunteers and mentors young women who are underprivileged; all this while being a loving and attentive mother of twin toddler girls.  The stunning balance Jen achieves with business and home life is something that I admire and try to emulate for myself.  To me, life is nothing without having the perfect combination of everything that life has to offer! What’s new in your life? My website: www.judygoss.com My blog: www.modelingtipsnow.com for free advice on modeling, or to speak with other people in the modeling industry Future appearances: •Live segment on ABC News NOW as a “lifestyle and trend expert” coming up in May for Mother’s Day •Speaker for Fashion How, an international fashion careers seminar – www.fashionhow.com •I had a live interview about modeling March 25, 2008 on the “Cooper Lawrence Show” – www.cooperlawrenceshow.com you can find the pod cast on their website. Sassy Stuff, "It" Girl Spotlight 2008-07-21T12:00:00-05:00 http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/new_york_look_book/sassybean http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/new_york_look_book/sassybean#When:00:01:01Z A gallery of street fashion. Buy New York Look Book Since 2004, New York magazine has been celebrating New York City style in a feature called “The Look Book”: a centerfold-with its subject shot at random anywhere and everywhere across Gotham-along with an interview about the subject’s personal style. The New York Look Book collects more than 200 of the best Look Book features, and a special “Where to Find It” section offers readers not only store listings, but also an insider’s guide to New York’s distinctive neighborhoods. Sassy Stuff, SassyBean Bookbag 2008-07-21T00:01:01-05:00 http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/prill_boyle/sassybean http://www.sassybean.com/index.php/blog/article/prill_boyle/sassybean#When:00:00:00Z The author of "Defying Gravity" speaks out about late bloomers. About Prill Like the women she writes about in Defying Gravity, Prill Boyle is a late bloomer. After graduating from college at 38, she became an English teacher. Then in January of 2000 she read an article in The New York Times about a 65-year old Kentucky woman named Wini Yunker who had waited 39 years to join the Peace Corps. Inspired by this woman’s persistence and courage, Prill decided to write a book about late bloomers--even though she had never written anything before. At age 47, she left her teaching job to write full time. About Defying Gravity 1.  What inspired you to write this book?  Do you consider yourself a late bloomer? A woman named Wini Yunker inspired me.  I read about her in The New York Times back in January of 2000.  She was 65 years old and finally fulfilling a 39-year dream of joining the Peace Corp.  The day the article came out, she was leaving for a two-year assignment in Ukraine.  She reminded me of some of my community college students—that’s what initially drew me to her story.  Like them, she was a single parent of modest means who worked full-time while earning a degree.  I thought my students would be inspired by her persistence.  I myself was so inspired that before I even finished reading the paper, I decided to write a book about people who refused to give up on themselves and their dreams—even though I had never written anything before!  (That’s how inspired I was.) I ended up interviewing over 100 individuals from all walks of life with a variety of obstacles to overcome, ultimately choosing 12 for the book.  One woman became a flight attendant at 71.  Another didn’t even have a high school diploma in her 40’s and became a professor of anthropology at Brown University at age 60.  And, yes, I’ve done a fair amount of late blooming myself.  I graduated from college at 38, published my first book at 50, and now, on the cusp of 54, am writing my first novel. 2. All of the women you profiled have very special stories, but is there one in particular you found especially poignant? Rainelle Burton’s.  Rainelle grew up a virtual prisoner in her house, allowed to leave home only for school.  She battled dyslexia, depression, and homelessness.  One winter in Detroit, she even lived in her car with a new baby.  Despite all of this, she managed for years to hold down a full-time job at Blue-Cross, Blue-Shield.  Then at age 50, she surmounted both her dyslexia and her depression to write a critically acclaimed first novel.  What I say about Rainelle in my book is that “she’s been through hell, but has emerged without a trace of soot on her spirit.” A true inspiration, Rainelle is one of the lightest, most joyful people I’ve ever met. 3. Who are some of your own late blooming heroes? I list a number of famous late bloomers at the back of my book—people such as Katherine Graham, who was a full-time wife and mother until age 46 when her husband committed suicide.  Initially shy and insecure, she took over his job as the owner/publisher of The Washington Post.  It was under her tenure that the Post published the Pentagon Papers and gained a national reputation.  But the late bloomers who inspire me the most are the everyday ones.  Elizabeth Eichelbaum, for instance, who hadn’t even completed fifth grade by the time she was in her fifties and earned a doctorate at age 90.  Or Arthur Krakower, who in his late 70’s became the oldest graduate of the San Jose School of Art and at age 87 is still painting up a storm. 4.  What advice do you have for women who are considering “defying gravity now” in their own lives? Well, first of all, don’t put too much stock in tips.  There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to blooming—at any age.  There are no substitutes for hard work.  There are no shortcuts to the top.  But remember:  When you’re doing what you love, it’s not exhausting, it’s exhilarating. Beyond that, I would tell people to keep in mind the 3 P’s: 1) Pay attention.  If you’re open, a simple comment by a stranger can change your life.  Even your body can be your ally if you’re attuned to what it’s saying.  A wrenching gut is a warning cry.  A soaring heart is a sign saying, “Enter here.” 2) Pull on the thread of your passion.  Don’t second guess yourself.  If something makes your heart sing (see P #1), pursue it.  You don’t have to quit your day job, but make room in your life to delve into something you love.  See where it takes you. 3) Persist.  It sounds trite, but it’s true.  Most people give up on their dreams too soon. 4. What is next for you?  A new book? I’m writing a fictional sequel to Defying Gravity.  I just finished the first draft. Sassy Stuff, "It" Girl Spotlight 2008-07-17T00:00:00-05:00