Wednesday, June 9, 2010

ON A NIGHT LIKE THIS...The Kylie Event!

Two weeks ago when I accepted my position at Tamara Kretzer PR I was briefed on an upcoming VIP event hosted by Kylie Minogue the face of our Spanish Jewellery client TOUS. What I wasnt allowed to publicly say at the time , was when Tamara called me to offer the job she also added "...and Denis you're dream will come true and you'll get to meet Kylie". I couldn't believe my ears. For those of you who know me, you will know that Kylie is one of my biggest Idols-Heroes-Style Icons EVER! I've seen her Live twice but have dreamed of coming face to face with her many a time - as sad as that may sound - and knowing that I was going to meet her (and only being allowed to tell my mum) was anticipation & excitement beyond compare. With 2 weeks to plan probably the biggest event our Agency has held to date was not an easy task however with a team of 5 we managed to pull it off amazingly! As last minute celebrity guests were added to our list hours before the event was due to begin Kylie fever was in the air and buzzing through our office like a thick smog! On the same night as the GLAMOUR STYLE AWARDS this was going to be quite a big night proffesionally and personally for me for a few reasons. As PR Boy working the Kylie event was going to be one of the most important nights of my new-career in PR and a chance to prove myself to my new team. As Stylist Deni , my client Seema was invited to both the Kylie Event & Glamour Awards so this was my chance to showcase my skills as a stylist to the 'who's who' of the London Fashion/Celebrity World. Nervous much? Yep. Rewind 10 days 5 days pre-event and you'll find me in Seema's bedroom going through options for the evenings outfit. When she walked out in a gold and black sequinned Lipsy, a dress from their VIP range , I knew this was the HERO dress! I decided to style it with black peep toe Kurt Geiger heels and a leather and gold studded House of Kaviar Guache to funk the look up and mix the sexy glamour of the sequins with the funky edge of the studs. Fast Forward back to yesterday and my morning began in Fortnum & Masons. Fortnum and Mason is recognised internationally for its high quality food and as an Iconic British Landmark. Its basically one of the swankiest food stores in the world and a hold a Royal Warrant. This is where the Queen does her shopping (though not personally I'm sure). I was sent to Fortnum's to buy quintessentially English food for Madame Tous & her daughter (flying in especially from Spain for the night's event). I've never been in before and have always thought it was a high end department store. Needless to say when I walked in it took my breath away. The glass doors opened to reveal royal red carpet , Chandeliers hanging from the ceilings and the cutest silver shopping baskets that looked more expensive than any shopping basket i've ever seen. I've never seen food so amazing merchandised and displayed. A tower of fine chocolate truffles looked poetic behind glass counters and the staff were dressed in suits like the staff of a 5 Star Hotel. As classical music played in the background (at just the right volume) I observed the shoppers around me. These were the chicest shoppers of London i've seen. Carrying Vuittons, Birkins and the like , dressed in smart chino's and Burberry knitwear these were just every day women & men popping in to pick up their groceries for the day - every day VERY WEALTHY women & men however! I selected quintessentially english fine tea, biscuits and a jar of sweets coming to the total of 30pounds (yes $60 AUD) and had them gift wrapped (no charge) by the white glove , tuxedo wearing gentleman behind the counter. This was luxury at its best. This alone was an experience in itself, and I walked out with the longing to be one of this uber-chic shoppers one day , popping into Fortnum's - Birkin in hand , cashmere sweater tied around my neck - to treat myself to a selection of truffles, macaroons, fine chocolate and champagne. I highly recommend visiting and now feel like a trip to London wouldn't be complete without it. Back to reality and back to the office when before I knew it I was in a cab & on my way to the event! A quick costume change into my party outfit I opted for Elegant Glamour in black skinny's a white tuxedo shirt and bow tie (left hanging loose James Bond esque) with my grey blazer thrown on top. I selected an oversized silver TOUS cuff to wear for the evening (coming in at a cool 500 pounds) and took my place list in hand, as the face of the agency, on the door!
I've been at the door for many a fashion show and the last event we did for Grazia so I wasnt too nervous , though this was the biggest event i've had to do (with a 300 strong guest list) being at the door meant I would be the first to see everyone that comes in , most importantly Kylie! It was 6.30 on a balmy summer's night as guests started to arrive. Madame Tous & her Daughter Rosa arrived with their posse from Spain HQ (later in the night Rosa Tous told me she loved the cookies I selected and that her and Madame Tous had ate them while getting ready). My face lit up when my star client Seema Pathan walked my way - she looked beyond stunning! The dress, shoes & accessories looked INSANITY and as the paparazzi snapped her picture I felt so proud!
Soon Matt Horne , the hilarious comedian and star of the Catherine Tate show & Gavin and Stacey made his way towards me and I ushered him inside as he was the guest DJ for the night.
Shortly after Billionaire-Heiresses the Ecclestone sisters stepped out of their private Hummer and made there way towards me. Dressed in a Herve Leger dress and Christian Louboutin heels Brunette Petra's wrists were stacked in Cartier LOVE bracelets (starting at around 5,000pounds each) while her Blonde sister Tamara sparkled in a sequinned short play suit carrying a Chanel 2.55 and also wearing Louboutins! These girls are London's Hilton Sisters & were loving every second of the spotlight as they posed for paparazzi like the socialites they are
I greeted the super tanned , dressed in black, man with a "Hiya Sir , what was your name" as I prepared to tick him off the list he replied with a "You shouldn't have to ask for my name young man you should recognise me , I'm Julien McDonald" and with that we both laughed and I felt slightly embarrased as I completely didnt recognise the designer I was really looking forward to meet. Granted he had just completley changed his hairstyle and wasnt recognised by a few people. "Julien i'm so sorry its your new haircut I didnt even recognise you" , I giggled whilst batting my eye lashes and swiftly got out of it as I ushered him inside. Quite a funny moment!The TOUS flagship store on Regent St was buzzing as guests drank their cocktails as Matt Horne queued 80s favorites from the decks. The combination of Socialites, Designers, Actors and Actresses, TV & Radio Presenters and Models set the scene for what was shaping up to be a very cool party! Everyone however was eagerly anticipating Kylie's arrival - myself included.
As Kylie's manager stepped outside we were told the Divine Miss M was around the corner and 5 minutes later a black car pulled up and my heart began to beat so fast I thought it was going to jump out of my blazer and onto the floor! As security opened the door I spot a shoe , the colour of coral and then finally the gorgeous-incredibly petite-frame of Kylie Minogue. She is glowing. Literally it seems as though rays of light are beaming from her smile. Her hair is toussled and up in that effortless way she often wears it. Her full length bohemian styled Bodyamr coral dress drapes down her body and her gold Yves Saint Laurent heels peak through the split. Gold three-tiered TOUS earrings from the Petal collection adorn her ears and look perfect against her honey-blonde locks. As she walks towards me I cant wipe the smile off my face and she poses for Paparazzi like the proffessional she is and then finally is right in front of me. I extend my hand and with a smile am the first to greet her. "Hiya Kylie, Welcome to TOUS, I'm Deni you look amazing" , as the words come out of my mouth I cant believe this is happening. "Aww , you're a sweety" Kylie Minogue replies. Yes Kylie Minogue , The Kylie , Australia's Showgirl called me Little Deni from Geelong - a sweety - somebody pinch me! This can not be happening. Perfectly queued by Matt Horne, Kylie's new single 'All The Lovers' from her forthcoming album 'Aphrodite' blares from the speakers (contrary to mixed reviews I love this song , its such a feel good track) and as the lyrics play and Kylie walks in it is a moment I WILL NEVER FORGET! and before I can start to get emotional I compose myself and take in every second! She poses with Madame Tous & her daughter Rosa & has the whole room in awe of her beauty & presence.
As she heads upstairs to her VIP lounge , for Kylie's Team , Special Guests and the TOUS Family another familiar face walks my way. "Its Molly Meldrum" I say, "G'day Molly I'm Denis" - "Gday Mate, you must be an aussie" , "Sure am mate" I reply. "Where from?" Molly asks, "Melbourne, well actually Geelong" , "Geelong , aaah mate are you a Geelong supporter?" , "Of Course I am" I reply and with that he faux-chokes my neck laughing "Naughty Boy you're the opposition" and we both laugh. "Has Kyles arrived" , "Yeah she's upstairs mate go on In" , "Cheers Denis"! A very funny and unexpected suprise appearance from Molly! Reminded me of home hehe after about an hour of interviews and mingling with the guests it was time for KM to depart and as she made her way down through the crowd I noticed my best friends Charlotte & Paul (Charlotte works for a fashion brand who was invited to the event but since the designers couldnt make it she got to take their invite, Paul being a model was her suave +1) stop and ask Kylie for a photo. I am so jealous and so proud all at the same time - as PR Deni I have to remain completley proffessional but since I wasnt allowed to ask for a photo I'm glad they got one! and as the paparazzi get their snaps of Kylie walking out she turns and smiles at me and as her flowing coral gown is swept in to the car the door closes and the car makes its way down Regent St. As Kylie fever winds down I am given the all clear to leave the door and take some time to quickly have a few drinks with the guests. I quickly-and-reluctantly return the amazing silver cuff "I dont want to take it off ever its amazing" I tell the TOUS girls , but its best I do before I get any cocktails into me & lose it! I head over to our team and we all raise our glasses of much deserved drink to congratulate each other on what was an extremley succesfull event we are a small team but work so well together! Finally I take this time to say hello to Charlotte & Paulcheck out their pics of Kylie. "She said I was cute" - says Paul! Bless! Seema is beyond happy and informs me that all night everyone has been complementing her dress "All thanks to you Deni" and again I am reminded why I love doing what I do so much! Drink in hand I briefly spoke to Percy Parker designer of hot london fashion label PPQ , I told him how much I love the label and how I was dying to go to his show last fashion week but was working a show for Goodley at the same time "Well i'll make sure you're invited to our show this Fashion week" and with that we exchange emails! Last fashion week every celebrity, socialite and stylist wanted to be at the PPQ show and now I had a guaranteed invite - Amazing! I get a quick drink with Seema before we have to leave to head to Glamour Awards Party (but more on that later...)
...as I prepare to leave the Kylie event I still cant believe this is all happening. It sounds silly to say but meeting Kylie is a lifelong dream come true and not only that, I successfully worked the biggest event our agency's ever done and my proffesionality (is that even a word) was praised by Tamara & the TOUS team and I feel overwhelmed with emotions , it was really an event to remember in so many ways! However the night didn't end there, keep reading for the full low down on all the Glitz, Glamour and Gossip at the GLAMOUR event - coming soon...
xoxo Deni!














1 WEEK. 3 EVENTS - FIRST UP ASOS MAGAZINE LAUNCH!

Life in the PR world is full of events , in Fashion PR especially! So last Wednesday evening after another crazy busy day at the office it was off to mix a little business with pleasure at the ASOS Magazine Launch Party. ASOS.com Is an online store - the success of stores like Asos, Net-a-porter.com & My-wardrobe.com proves one thing - online shopping is on the rise , and though I'm not always a huge fan of it - I am one of those , dare I say "old fashioned" people that loves nothing more than going in a store feeling the fabric in my hands , seeing the sparkle shine up close and lets not forgetting trying on a beautiful garment and prefer to shop the 'old fashioned' way however it is quite convenient knowing that I - now in the 21st century - also have the option of doing it in my Emporio Armani jocks whilst in bed! ASOS.com however has now launched a magazine and is expanding itself into the fashion world at large and smartly so! When I recieved the invitation one thing stood out to me *Guest DJ Leigh Lezark - with that I was already selecting my outfit for the occasion! Leigh Lezark has a special place in my heart! Based in New York , Leigh is the hottest DJ in the fashion world , apart from the fact that she is now a fashion icon-celebrity in her own right (the girl has amazing style) she's hand selected by Marc Jacobs & Karl Lagerfeld for almost every party they throw and has also modelled for Karl Lagerfeld. While in Paris during fashion week she caught my eye walking out of the Chanel show in an amazing Chanel printed knit jumpsuit - I remember thinking - WOW now that girl is cool!I never imagined our paths would cross, then a month ago I had the pleasure of styling her for Diesel. She was one of the most down to earth celebs i've so far come across and as we sat on the floor editing my choices for her we giggled and talked about our love for St.Tropez and Chanel! It was such a fun experience yet once again I never thought i'd see her again - then the ASOS invite came my way and it looked like our paths would cross again! I walked from the office to the venue, the exclusive Club24 in Soho (and also where I had my 22nd bday) and from sunlight into the club. ASOS covers featuring Leigh Lezark, Kristen Stewart & Lea Michele on entrance
My workmate Alex and I were handed Bellini's on arrival and quickly took our place in a VIP booth. A blessing and a curse with fashion events is all the free alcohol , especially when you've had that busy a day, that you're not sure whether you stopped for lunch or not - so 3 bellini's-on-an-empty-stomach later I was slightly tipsy. The crowd was a mixture of the on trend ASOS Fashion team , stylish bloggers and all the fashion girls & boys from rhe hottest PR Agency's & magazines across London. In Dior & Studs my look was glunge (glam-grunge) the Deni way!
While chilling in VIP I met Pauline , a stunning American-Asian girl living in London we both completed each others outfits and bonded while talking cheating-boyfriends and Sex & the City over a Bellini or 3! What I love about London is you just never know when you'll make a new friend! After another drink & playing with sunglasses with Pauline's friend, Leigh finally arrived!As she began playing her set we immediatley hit that dance floor. Flown in from New York especially for this event , I couldnt believe how lucky I was to be dancing to a Leigh Lezark set! She mixed old school hip hop with Lady GaGa, MGMT & Prince in the coolest way possible! As she looked to the crowd I caught her eye and we exchanged a smile 'I wonder if she remembers me' I thought , and with that I decided that I might not get this chance again and walked right through security and into the DJ booth. "Leigh" I said and before I could continue my sentence "Denis how are you?" she replied and took her headphones down to give me a hug. *Oh my god she remembers my name* I thought *Ok keep cool Deni* soon followed. "I'm good honey how are you?" , "Literally crazy, just flew in for the event and flying out tomorrow morning straight after". There she was wearing an amazing black Dolce & Gabbana corset dress and before I knew it we were chatting about Gaga's new video , NY fashion & then I just hung out with her as she did her thing in the booth. An hour later it was hugs and kisses and an exchange of emails!

Back on the dancefloor I continued to dance it up till Leigh's set was over and as I walked out into the busy streets of a Wednesday night in London , just the perfect amount of tipsy, I couldnt help but smile as I hailed a cab (no night bus for me tonight) feeling slightly Carrie Bradshaw esque and sat my stud print InsideOut skinny jeans down, I looked out at the city of blinding lights then down at my blackberry grinning at Leigh Lezark's personal email address beaming from the screen - how this is all really happening is beyond me but im sure glad it is! xoxo Deni

Sunday, June 6, 2010

P.R BOY DENI - SO IT BEGINS...

I woke up on Wednesday the 27th of May for my first day as PR Boy! What to wear on my first day was a crucial decision - what to wear on any day of my life is a game of dress ups as you all know , but for days like today I really wanted to pull out the stops. The look I wanted to go for was proffesional but with a cool laidback appraoch. I didnt want to seem too up tight, yet not too casual either and of course it needed to have just the right amount of fashion edge to still be ME! And so the above developed. My red and black check GSTAR shirt is a very special piece to me. I spent a little bit too much money on it a few years back and bought it for my first visit to the Geelong Cup. Its been a favorite ever since. I chose to style it with a black bow tie - love myself a bow tie for that cute geek-chic-fashion look and i pull out the bow tie for days I want to feel smarter hehe as silly as that sounds it just makes me feel book-worm esque. Paired with my trusty H&M black skinny's (they may be a 10pound pair of high street jeans but they are literally my favorite black skinny's every & dont fade in the wash) and of course added the finishing touches - piles of Cat Hamill beads my Police watch & skull earring. I got my hair cut the day before also (have kept all the length but just had the sides shaved off lovin this look) so I walked out the door with extra pep in my step! The day before I was also gifted with a very much lusted after item that i now cant live without. I've always said when I land my dream job I will need a beautiful diary to remain organised and on schedule in the chicest way possible. Smythson of Bond Street are world knowned for their leather diary's , organizers , notebooks etc They originated on Bond Street in London and are the insiders favorites for logo free , sophisticated high end leather goods (I remember reading that Elle McPherson never leaves her house without hers). So I went into Smythson the Monday before to see how much I was up for. For a beautiful plain black leather (which funnily enough has the same grain treatment as my Prada wallets) Mid year 'Soho Diary' with my name embossed was gonna set me back a steep 170pounds. Unfortunatley I couldnt afford that so I walked out resorting myself to the fact that I'd have to go to Rymans (a stationery store) and get a cheap one. I briefly mentioned the diary to one of my best friends Michelle that night over drinks and the next day over lunch she put the iconic blue Smythson shopper bag on the table and said 'open it' - knowing what was inside I began to cry behind my oversized Dior shades and opened it tearing up at what was inside!
Exactly down to the detail the diary I described to her the night before and she even got my name embossed on the front. Michelle is one of the most amazing people I know and it is because of her that I even am still where I am today. When I was going through the hardest period of my life so far, Michelle took me in and provided me with a sense of inner strength I never knew I had. It is for people like her that I am doing this , I want to make Michelle & my family proud of me and achieve all I can for them. So Smythson in hand 'Denis Todorovic' made his way into the Tamara Kretzer offices and into the world of Fashion PR - officially! The first day was manic to say the least as the following night we had a huge event with Grazia Magazine & our spanish jewellery client TOUS. A luxury jewellery house , TOUS was collaborating with Grazia to launch the new 'Magic Campaign' featuring the face of the brand Kylie Minogue. With less than 24hours till the event was due to begin the office was in overdrive, the phones didnt stop and before I knew it the day was over and that night I was off to visit Seema (my gorgeous TV presenter client who I now officially style) as she was attending tomorrow's Grazia event & I needed to style her up. Supplies in hand after trying on 3 dresses we chose the one that literally made everyones in the room jaw drop (this being me , her best friend, boyfriend and mother). She looked amazing and was totally going to shut it down at the event. I got home that night at 1am after a crazy day of juggling PR BOY & STYLIST Deni and woke up hours later ready for another long one which would include a day at the office , the Grazia event & VIP after party!
Outfit selection for day 2 was based around the fact that I needed a look that would take me straight from the office to the event to the party and always a firm believer in 'its better to be overdressed' thought a tie and waistcoat was perfect for the occasion! The phones were going crazy at the office and over 200 new guests had rsvp'd for their attendance for the event.

Not only were we focusing on the event of the night , we were planning a huge event only 10 days away and getting on with the day to day workings of the agency. Phoning stylists, editors pitching our product to be shot in their upcoming stories, it was all starting to make sense to me and the excitement of every confirmed feature that came through was a great rush & a success for the whole team. Before we all knew it we had 3 hours till start time so it was off to the flagship store , where the event was to take place , to start to set up , prepare goody bags and have one final brief. "You've started right in the deep end Denis but I think its exciting" , said Tamara in the spare 5 minutes we had between tasks and I couldnt agree with her more! 10minutes before the estimated arrival of guests I was assigned to be on the door with the list , making sure only those with an invitation got in and no one else. Clipboard in hand there I stood!As the fashion pack started to make their way into the store Seema walked my way and took my breath away - wearing a figure hugging asymetrical printed dress by Lipsy - cinched in at the waist , the color , print and fabric of each panel hit her body in all the right places. Black perforated leather Rika clutch in hand and black peep toe heels on foot she was AH.MA.ZING!!!

The event was a huge success and PR duties aside everyone was talking about Seema all night. She was 'the girl' - at one point I spotted her talking to the Fashion Editor of Grazia (wearing a gorgeous black jersey dress and Missoni trench coat) and she really commanded attention. "Denis I feel so amazing and everyone keeps telling me how great I look & its all thanks to you" - when I heard those words It was such a proud moment. To make someone feel that good about themself is whats the most rewarding part of styling and I look forward to the many more styling adventures instore for Seema & I to work on (but more on that later...) event over it was time to make our way to the exclusive after party at the uber exclusive hot spot Mo*Vida (a favorite of many celebs and socialites). We walked down the dark stairway where a flash of fairy lights lead the way to VIP. The room was buzzing full of a cool fashion crowd and friends and family of guests and my team. Alcohol flowing and camera's flashing combined with the music that had us all dancing till 3 in the morning, was the perfect way to reward our hard work!
As I passed out in my bed at 4 that morning I woke up the next morning suprisingly fresh for my last day of the short Week 1 at the new job! and as 8pm Friday night came along (yes late nights at the office are all part of the PR game) I had a moment where I thought 'i've managed to successfully work my first official PR event , successfuly style my first client for the first time & make a really good impression on my boss & work colleages' - "Denis, I am so glad you're part of our team , welcome" and with those words Tamara and I wished each other a good weekend and my life in Fashion PR begun...and there's a whole lot more exciting things about to happen. All that & more updates coming soon xoxo Deni

Thursday, June 3, 2010

AND SO MY INTERN CHAPTER CLOSES...

Almost 4 months ago I began my first day as an intern at a fashion PR Firm and was thrown straight into the deep end which resulted in being one of the best experiences I've ever had and was a rollercoaster ride of emotions along the way. My life over the past 2 months (or more...) has been just that , a rollercoaster ride of emotions, and i havent updated my blog as often so I apologise to all you readers out there, but that's all about to change as I have much exciting news to report - however before I close this chapter let me fill you in on some of the highlights from my most recent intern experiences.

VOGUE the word itself conjures an emotional relation to fashion - it is fashion mecca. On one Thursday morning I walked into the offices of Goodley to be told we were going to Vogue today. We were going to conduct a sample sale of some old samples we had in our closet and within an hour I walked through the revolving doors and into the elevator on my way to Fashion Heaven. In the elevator stood a leggy blonde wearing a Marc Jacobs cropped jacket , Balmain jeans and sky high Miu Miu wedges! She emulated all that Vogue meant to me - High fashion! I could've cried. We set up the sale in one of the Vogue offices (covered wall to wall in issues of past). I took every chance I got to walk through the corridors , lined with rails of all the hottest new designer threads from every label you could imagine. As I walked out of the offices It was truly a dream come true - I visited THE HOUSE OF VOGUE & I have a feeling I'll be back and perhaps for a more important meeting next time!

A week later , Goodley was holding their Press days. A press day basically involves showing stylists, editors, journalists and bloggers all our new collections to give them an idea of the product we have to offer them for the season ahead. Normally interns duties during press days involve handing out water and canapes however the Goodley team trusted me to take appointments with clients , showing them the collections and talking through the designers we represent. Meaning I would have the opportunity to show my face and passion to some of the industry's leaders. I met some amazing people and after every appointment they asked me for my card, when I told them I was just 'the intern' they looked at me in shock. "You need to be working in Fashion PR young man" said the Style Editor for Stylist magazine. Little did I know what was just around the corner...(but more on that later).

Now back on VOGUE Encounters a week after our Press days, Alexandra Shulman the Editor in Chief of UK Vogue , who unfortunatley couldnt attend our press days - had a scheduled meeting to come in and see the collection of Meadham Kirchoff and meet the designers themselves to discuss the collection. These guys are London's answer to Viktor & Rolf and a very quirky fashion duo. The News that A.Schu was arriving at Goodley sent everyone into a frenzy and just before her arrival Kara asked me "...to please sit in reception for Alex's Arrival". She certainly didnt have to tell me that twice , before I knew it I was sat behind a lap top in reception feeling very 'amanda-off-ugly-betty' and 15minutes late for Miss.Vogue came knocking on the door. "Hiya Alexandra, Welcome to Goodley" , "I'm here for the Meadham & Kirchoff Boys" she replied quickly. "Follow Me" - as I walked her to the showroom I clocked her outfit. Black Silk carrot leg-harem style trousers , a striped oversized singlet top and a Navy Blue silk Blazer. Her hair (naturally wavy) was up in a dishevelled 'couldnt give a fuck' style and she was carrying a new season Celine handbag and wearing Miu Miu heels. There is a reason Anna Wintour & Carine Roitfeld (editors of US & France Vogue) are the style icons they are...Alexandra Shulman style icon is not. She was slightly aloof but she did like the collection and after a brief 20minutes she was out the door and back to her throne at the Fashion Kingdom that is Vogue! Never in my life did I think I would be coming this close to Vogue Editors and now that I have A.Schu and Carine Roitfeld ticked off my list , the only editor I have left to meet is Anna Wintour hehe

2 Weeks ago my 4 month intern anniversary looming , I emailed the directors at Goodley advising them of my interest in applying for any upcoming positions as a Junior Press Assistant. Fashion PR has become a true love of mine - being amongst the hustle and bustle and behind the scenes of getting fashion into the magazines and to the right stylists and on the right people has really become something I want to be a part of and feel am really good at. Unfortunatley there was no openings at Goodley however one of the directors best friends was moving to a new Fashion PR Agency and they were looking for a Junior Press Assistant. After a sterling recommendation from Goodley and my CV in the hands of Tamara Kretzer herself (the owner of the agency) I received a phone call that was about to change my life. Tamara wanted to interview me asap. So 2 mondays ago I fastened the buttons on my new Dior shirt (30 pounds from a charity store) pulled my tie down, threw my blazer on and walked into Tamara's offices.
I've always been a firm believer in 'The feeling you get in your stomach' - I always say you've gotta trust that feeling. The moment I met Tamara , a striking , tall german woman with long blonde wavy hair I knew this would be the start of something amazing! The next afternoon I recieved a phonecall that changed my life "Denis , even though you're not as experienced as perhaps some of the other applicants, you have a passion and ambition that reminds me of myself at your age and there is something about you that makes me want to give you that chance". When she offered me the job that is changing my life , I enthusiastically accepted and as I hung up the phone tears of joy streamed down my face. Last Wednesday I began my role officially as a Junior Press Assistant for Tamara Kretzer PR. My last intern day was bitter sweet. It called for a special outfit however and as I sported a somewhat preppy summer 'Chuck Bass' inspired outfit - I walked into Goodley that day remembering a somewhat vulnerable , newcomer to the PR and Fashion world and walked out that day embracing the more confident than ever young man, with a handful of amazing experiences under my belt. As another exciting chapter is about to begin in my life i just know exciting things are ahead and I am ready , crisp Dior shirt on I am ready to shine and take over the world of Fashion PR!
Updates on my first week are coming soon xoxo Deni

Monday, April 26, 2010

...AND SO A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS!

Hiya Guys, ok so I do have a few adventures to update you all on - but I felt it only necessary to write this post as its happening. Its 12.16, just after midnight on a Monday night & i' m currently stretched out on my new bed - typing away at my laptop - in my new room, in my new flat as I begin a new chapter in my life...and I must say i'm feeling slightly Carrie-Bradshaw-esque!Getting here was quite difficult, in both an emotional and physical way. Today I woke up with butterflies in my tummy and as I began to lug my enormously overpacked suitcase and overnight bag, the pain began to filter through my arms - it felt like every bone and limb was pulsating as i shuffled my way down to the bus stop. Thankfully getting down and up the stairs on the underground was a piece of cake as a couple of kind strong men helped me get my suitcases down and onto the tube - proving there are nice people in London! I left my suitcase at work and once finished at 5pm I headed to Oxford Circus with my luggage , as only 3 steps away was Kings Cross station - where I now call home. London is broken up into Zones - from 1 - 6. Basically Zone 1 is the most central and then it goes 2,3,4 etc... The Zone you live in can impact on everything from the cost of travel to the cost of real estate. Kings Cross - lucky for me - is Zone 1, it doesnt get more central than that. Its so close to everything , literally a 5minute journey into work and walking distance to so many great locations. As I got off at Kings Cross with my 35kg luggage (more than half my bodyweight) I thankfully got the lifts to the street level however due to construction was diverted and had to walk the longest possible way to get to my bus stop with the heaviest suitcase in the world - not fun! I finally got on my bus where only 3 stops away , I was dropped off basically at my front door - too convenient! Now the difficult task of lugging my suitcase up 2 flights of stairs to get to the apartments door - lucky for me as I walked in there was yet another kind strong man to help me - bless these englishmen! So round 1 was done and it was then back to get the rest of my stuff - consisting of my 'Prada-back-pack' , my sewing machine and laptop - easy I thought, I was wrong. Not only did my backpack weigh a tonne - the sewing machine was not light and nor was my laptop bag. I walked down the street laughing my head off as literally I was covered in luggage, there was a bag dangling from every limb it seemed like - I definitley got many an interesting look. Getting back to my new home with all of this was difficult to say the least - but I finally done it , rewarded myself with a McFlurry and with the sounds of Drake, Jay Z & Cheryl Cole to keep me company - began to unpack. Everything is now officially organised and in its place and boy what a relief that is! I get my new camera tomorrow (thanks mum) so as soon as I do I will take photo's and do another post so you can see my new setup! Its so strange because I never thought I would be in this situation , this is the first time in my life i've really lived on my own , completely independently - its taken a lot to get to this point and I have no doubt it will be a challenging journey but it will be one that will change my life forever and make me grow as a person and at the end of the day that's what life is all about isnt it? We learn something new about ourselves every day , I feel like i've come so far already, I never realised the true potential I have and how capable I am. Even something as small as moving - all on my own today - no help from friends just me and my baggage - both emotional and literal - but I did it and I'm quietly proud of myself. Dont ever stop believing in yourself people - you may suprise yourself and something tells me the suprises wont stop here xoxo Deni

Monday, April 19, 2010

22 IN LONDON TOWN - MY BDAY FESTIVITIES!

Turning 22 kind of felt like it would be a nothing year , 18 is big , 21 is huge but 22 is just 22 nothing ground breaking. However I was in London and starting a new independent life so that's what 22 will forever mean to me. I was woken up on the 1st of April 2010 by a suprise Michelle had perfectly orchestrated. At the front door - waiting for me - was a brand new sewing machine, topped off with a pink bow. Tears immediatley began to stream - she knew how much I wanted and needed a sewing machine , as its the only way i'm going to be able to start sewing some samples up and get a start on my debut collection, she even called my mum back home to figure out what sewing machine I had at home and got not the same one but a model above! The girls had planned the perfect day and as we sipped our vodka lemonades at - 11am - hey its London after all - and after an impromptu photo shoot we set up in the living room, we were off! For the occasion I chose to wear some WHITE SUEDE skinny's I ripped up , my COMME rolling stones tee and a hooded leather jacket I borrowed off Bonnie , layered with a grey sweat - complete with military boots , beanie (you can never predict london weather) and my new KAVIAR GUACHE studded cuff a present from my lovely friend Rachel Lubin! This cuff is SIK!

We then began our walk into Camden Town, where the girls had a day of vintage shopping and drinking in mind - the perfect combination really. First stop was Hawley Arms - also known as Amy Winehouses's local and where she was first discovered. There was no Miss.Wino but there was jagerbombs, vodka lemonade and a pint of chips and mayo to start of my bday adventures.

we then headed off to do some vintage shopping where i found an amazing vintage leather jacket for 10 POUNDS! Am.az.ing - bonnie bought it for me as my bday present bless her! We then went to a pub kept drinking , met these two random gay boys who were the funniest boys ever - and before you know it we were all partying together till 4am from pub to club to another bar the dancing didnt stop and it was the best first bday in London ever. The weekend however awaited its festivites. My closest girlfriends and I were all dressed up and ready to head over to the exclusive club 24 in Soho for my VIP birthday night out! We had some pre drinks @ Mich's
Then Charlotte gave me my present which was a gorgeous silver engraved framed picture of us!
Some vodka in our system it was off to the club , where we downed Belvedere in our VIP booth and danced the night away to the likes of Jay Z , Rihanna , Kanye West and many urban beats.
Altogether much fun had by all , an amazing Birthday in London town - big thankyou to the girls! xoxo Deni













Sunday, April 18, 2010

AND SO A CHAPTER CLOSES...

*Before you read this I want to clarify that I have not written the below to hurt ones feelings, point fingers or make one look bad. This is me, going through the motions or rather e-motions and sharing (as i have been) the updates of my life.

My life always has and always will be - to a certain degree - an open book. I am the type of person who talks about my feelings , whether it be to my family , friends or partner - I cant keep what im feeling supressed inside and this is why I have chosen to write the following. My mother told me that she's been printing off all of these posts and that one day I should make it a book , if this is to happen then it seems only right that I speak about one of the most important chapters of my life or rather the chapter of my life that has closed. 2 months ago Ben and I broke up. Wow. Even writing that down was harder than I imagined. Its not fair to blame any single person. To write a list of faults , wrong doings or list the bad times. No one is perfect and there are always two people in a relationship. Some of you i've told and some of you I haven't , to be fair its taken me a bit of time to actually come to the realisation of what has happened or what is happening. To actually say it out loud meant it was really happening and two months ago it was something I was not prepared to do. The thing about a break up is that, after 2 years of spending your life with someone, not just someone, 'the-one' - this person becomes not only your life, your love , your lover , your confidant , your carer , the one you care for but at the heart of the matter they become your best friend, your soul mate (for those of you who believe in this term).
When your world is crashing down there arms seem like the safest place in the world, a silent assurance that everything is going to be ok. I think that has been the hardest part of this , losing my best friend. Of course break ups come with the standard after-effects. Crying. Not eating followed by eating lots of junk food. More Crying - sometimes at unexpected times, for example while shopping at Zara at the reaction of hearing a song that reminds you of them. Then there's the Alcohol. Followed by more alcohol. Nights out dancing with girlfriends which will more than likely involve kissing boys you dont know just to try prove to yourself that you can infact move on. You get your hair cut and colored and buy that t shirt you've wanted for ages , only to refund it because it just doesnt seem as good as you thought it was - a pure sign of your current state of indecisive emotions. You watch too many episodes of Sex & the City and it seems like every where you go the radio is playing songs that remind you of them and suddenly every where you look there are loved up couples holding hands. I'm sure any and all break ups are bad , then again I think it depends on how much you loved the person (or if you loved them at all) and perhaps how it ended, but when its your first love, your first boyfriend, the first boy you bought home to your parents, the first boy you introduced to your best friend, the first boy you took to easter at your grandparents - the old-school-wog-grandparents you never thought would accept you and him. the first boy you taught to dance serbian 'kolo' and say 'kako si' and 'laku noch', learn to pronounce your family's name properly and introduce a love of vegeta, chevapi and sarma to. The first boy your brother sits down and says 'i want you guys to get married and have kids'. The first time you ever said 'I love you' to anyone and the first time someones said it to you. The first time you realised that 'making love' really does exist and that falling asleep in his arms to the sound of his heartbeat is the greatest feeling you've ever felt - these things make a break up harder than ever. To be in a relationship you open up your heart and really allow yourself to feel things you've never felt, fully knowing there is always the possibility you could get hurt, yet you go ahead and dive in head first and it shakes you to your core. The last 2 years , though at times they've been harder than anything i've ever felt, have been 2 of the best years of my life. Love, though painful it can be, is the most beautiful thing in the world. Through this relationship I've learnt alot about myself and about life in general , but I think more than anything I will say this - a relationship can not work without honesty. No matter how much you think the truth may hurt, without honesty there can be no real foundation to a lasting relationship. The second one starts to lie is the second you send your relationship into a negative spiral. However I guess these are the things everyone goes through and thats just life - such a small word with such complicating prospects. After all the tears , sleepless nights and constant questions of why? how? - I will come out of this a stronger person. Life is one big lesson and we constantly learn along the way. No one knows what the future holds and for once I need to let life take its course and see what possibilities it brings. Ben Wilson will always hold an extremley dear place in my heart, though your friends will tell you to 'fucking get over him and move on' all these words are easier said than done - it is true , people need to move on but it happens with time but I wont sit here and say I hate him because that would be a lie. I will forever cherish the 2 years we shared and try take as much of the positive out of it as I can. However, as one chapter closes another shall open - as they say , whatever that chapter holds is a mystery to me, but I look forward to finding out and will keep you posted along the way xoxo Deni

p.s I will close with the following picture. Its my favorite picture of Ben and I and it will always be one of my favorite memories, a perfect night I will never forget, a time when two people loved each other more than anything in this world and for a moment everything else stood still and it felt like they were the only 2 people in the world. That is how love should feel - every day!