Meghan Donovan of WIT & Whimsy Gives Us Her Beso August 13th, 2010 By

Meghan Donovan of WIT & Whimsy

Meghan Donovan of WIT & Whimsy

Meghan Donovan is the Editor in Chief of WIT & Whimsy, a lifestyle blog that obsesses over fashion, beauty, food, fitness, travel, and more.  She uses humor to bring a fresh perspective to her daily encounters, but it’s her thoughtfulness that causes readers to fall in love with her. 

Herewith Meghan gives us her beso:

beso: What shoes are you obsessed with right now?
Meghan: I am a shoe gal through and through, but never before have I ever wanted a pair of shoes as badly as I do the Jimmy Choo Private patent leather sandals.  They are to die for.

Jimmy Choo 'Private' Patent Leather Sandals

Jimmy Choo 'Private' Patent Leather Sandals

b: What is your go-to pair of jeans?
M: 7 For All Mankind Roxanne skinny jeans.  They pair perfectly with pumps and a blouse for a night of cocktailing and flats for a more casual daytime look, but can also be cropped to wear with gladiator sandals. 

b: What brand can’t you live without?
M: I think I’d be lost without J. Crew.  Their staples and dresses are just so easy to throw on and look put together.

b: If you could be invited to any runway show, which would you choose?
M: I had a blast covering New York Fashion Week this past February and am anxiously awaiting seeing the looks that were showcased on the runway hanging on the racks and available online — but the one show I dream about seeing is the crème de la crème in Paris: Chanel.

b: What bag are you carrying right now?
M: Even though it’s summer and I’d normally be carrying a more seasonal bag, I’ve not been able to part with an old favorite of mine: The MARC by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Hillier hobo in black.  I love that it has both shoulder and cross-body straps so it mixes up the look a bit.

b: Favorite beauty product?
M: Benefit Posietint.  It’s the perfect lightweight flush of color for both your cheeks and lips.  I layer Benefit Sugarbomb blush on top of it for an added pop, as well.

Benefit Sugarbomb Blush

Benefit Sugarbomb Blush

b: Favorite charity?
M: I support the Ralph Lauren Pink Pony Fund as I love what the brand does to utilize fashion for good.  It’s an easy way for people to support a great cause (cancer care and prevention) both monetarily and fashionably by sporting your cause on any number of their items with the trademark pink pony.

b: What fall trend will you definitely be wearing?
M: I’m for sure after chunky knits come this fall, and saw great ones at Twinkle by Wenlan in February.  I’m also planning on seeing how well I can pull off thigh-highs with cute skirts and sweater dresses!

be: Lastly, what’s your beso
M: Be so you.

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Chan Luu Jewelry July 22nd, 2010 By

Originally from Vietnam, Chan Luu began designing her own accessories in 1996.  Behind each Chan Luu jewelry design is a story inspired by nature, world cultures and the purity of her design aesthetic.  She uses high-quality materials such as sterling silver, gold vermeil, leather, pearls and semi-precious stones to create innovative pieces that have gained a loyal celebrity following, and featured in many fashion magazines.  Check out some of my favorite Chan Luu accessories:

Chan Luu Silver Hammered Ring, $109.00$77.00 (29% off) at Zappos

Chan Luu Silver Hammered Ring

Chan Luu Graduated Mixed Wrap Bracelet, $295 at Chan Luu

Chan Luu Graduated Mixed Wrap Bracelet

Chan Luu Gold Vermeil Leather Wrap Bracelet, $190 at Ron Herman

Chan Luu Gold Vermeil Leather Wrap Bracelet

Chan Luu Turquoise Cube Necklace, $268 at Nordstrom

Chan Luu Turquoise Cube Necklace

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Trina Turk Summer Collection June 16th, 2010 By

I first took notice of Trina Turk a while back when I was watching one of my favorite TV shows, What Not to Wear.  It’s obvious why the New York City boutique is repeatedly chosen for shoppers to rebuild their wardrobes.  The Trina Turk summer collection is no exception.  Inspired by California’s diverse cultures, architecture, and landscape, the collection consists of casual-yet-chic silhouettes.  Her philosophy is to create wearable, optimistic fashion that incorporates the best aspects of classic American sportswear. 

Today, the Trina Turk collection has expanded to include swimwear, jewelry, handbags, sunglasses, and a printed fabric home collection.  Here are some of my favorite picks out this season:

1. Trina Turk Rancho 2 Dress, $278

2. Trina Turk Trudy Romper, $190

3. Trina Turk Loop De Loop Atlantic Beach Bag, $198

 

There are also some really great Trina Turk sales on beso, so be sure to check it out!

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Interview with Judy Aldridge May 14th, 2010 By

At beso, we’re obsessed with style.  Whether we’re shopping for shoes or updating our living room, we want to recreate our vision just so.  We think style maven Judy Aldridge of Atlantis Home can relate.  Whether she’s designing jewelry (check out her latest collection of Beetle Belts), redecorating her home, or shopping for vintage finds, she is one woman whose style is effortless and truly her own.

Judy Aldridge of Atlantis Home

Judy Aldridge of Atlantis Home

We had the opportunity to chat with Judy, who just returned from a trip to Tokyo.  She shared some of her secrets for traveling well and discovering vintage pieces.  She is one woman who inspires us to be true to ourselves.  Herewith is her beso:

Q&A:
beso: What is your go-to bag when traveling
Judy: It’s a bag I purchased at Brookstone at the airport — I can’t live without it!

b: What is your favorite luggage?
J: Hmm — I love vintage Hartman luggage — but really anything that is stylish and lightweight.

b: What sunglasses are you wearing right now?
J: I have a pair of YSL sunglasses from about 5 years ago — cannot believe they have lasted this long!  I’m notoriously harsh on sunglasses.

b: Did you bring anything on your trip that reminds you of home?
J: It’s silly, but I travel with a stuffed cat.  It doubles as a pillow on the plane, and it also pads my camera.

b: On your trip to Tokyo, was there anything you were hoping to find?
J: I like to visit the Comme des Garçons store.  It’s much less expensive in Tokyo, and [my daughter] Jane and I have a few boutiques we like to hit like Fur Fur and 55Hotel.

b: What stores call out to you, either in Dallas or Tokyo?
J: I like 4510 in Dallas, and V.O.D. boutique.  Barneys in Dallas is great, and the staff they have assembled is terrific!  Bedrock is a favorite in Tokyo — truly this store is a retail experience.  Beauty beyond description.

b: What designers inspire you right now?
J: I’m more inspired by the past right now.

b: What is your favorite vintage find in your closet?
J: Uh-oh, there are so many!  I have a large collection of vintage jackets ranging from YSL, Moschino, Lacroix — these jackets are my favorite things.

b: In your home?
J: A vintage zebra hide rug.

b: I know you’re in the process of redecorating your home.  Do you have a favorite room so far?
J: My living room.  I will unveil it soon.

b: What is your favorite piece of furniture?
J: I really like my 60s daybed.  It’s large enough for two, and so well made.

b: What are you looking forward to wearing this fall?
J: Lots of boots, and lots of vintage.

b: Lastly, what’s your beso?
J: My beso is — “spoil yourself.”

Beetle Belt Collection

photos courtesy of Atlantis Home

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A Tale of Two Cities April 5th, 2010 By

Melissa and Kim - crowded-closet.com

It’s been some time since I’ve returned from the Chictopia Conference during New York Fashion Week, but I won’t soon forget the first two bloggers I met at that event: Kim and Melissa of crowded-closet.com, who I sat next to during Rebecca Stice and Judy Aldridge‘s panel.

Kim and Melissa, who attended college together and now work at advertising agencies in New York and Philadelphia, aren’t the type to let the 100+ miles between their two cities that separate them.  Sharing a passion for fashion and love of shopping, crowded-closet.com chronicles their exuberance and contemporary looks, which has drawn the attention of Glamour, who named them as their Best Dressed Readers.  Herewith are Kim and Melissa’s favorites:

Q&A
beso: What’s your favorite pair of jeans right now?
Kim: J Brand skinny jeans. They hug my body in all the right places!
Melissa: Era of Chaos black skinny jeans – they have phenomenal stitching detail over the knees.

Kim in JBrand skinny jeans

Kim in J Brand Skinny Jeans

b: What bag(s) are you carrying right now?
Kim: Lauren Conrad for Linea Pelle bag. The leather has been so durable I just can’t retire this bag. Love the partial chain straps. Also this bag opens into a tote shape, so I can shove everything imaginable into it.
Melissa: A Tylie Malibu black leather bag I purchased in Philly a few years back. A single angel wing and gothic hardware make it so rock and roll.

Melissa Carrying Tylie Malibu

b: What gloss are you wearing right now?
Kim: Russian Red by MAC. It’s so BRIGHT and sassy and easy to reapply between cocktails ;)
Melissa: Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1 – all I need.

b: What nail polish are you wearing right now?
Melissa: essieViva la Vespa – it’s electric!
Kim: OPI Do You Lilac It? (Melissa gifted it to me!) It reminds me of spring time.

b: What stores are calling out to you? What are you drawn into?
Melissa: Ginette NY for jewelry – amazing delicate pieces in gold and silver. And Madewell and Urban Outfitters for my spring wardrobe. Stripes and hats please!
Kim: Let’s be serious here. Forever21 is ALWAYS calling my name. Lately, I am finding myself stumbling into a lot more boutiques. One of my new favorites in Philadelphia is Addiction Studios, a makeup and consignment shop.

b: When it comes to consignment, we like Celebrity Owned on eBay. What color is your new black?
Kim: YELLOW, my collection is already growing…
Melissa: Blush or nude. I love the neutrals all the designers are showcasing for fall. It just so happens it works REALLY well with my skin tone.

b: What’s your favorite LBD?
Kim: Honestly, it’s a little black skirt that I have a crush on right now. My high-waisted leather pencil skirt from Purdy Girl. I bought this in NYC the last time I was in town to visit Melissa.
Melissa: My Reiss one shoulder black Charlotte dress and my A.B.S. Allen Schwartz strapless leather dress. They both work so well with belts and I love belts.

b: What designers inspire you?
Kim: phillip lim, Diane von Furstenberg, DKNY. I like the mix of feminine and masculine between these three designers.
Melissa: Araks ready wear is very inspiring. The designer has created a perfect combination of lingerie with structured, menswear-inspired suits. It makes me want to wear my bras on the outside of my shirts.

b: Lastly, we’d like to know: What’s your beso? My beso is: “be so fit
Melissa: ‘be so real’
Kim: ‘be so positive’

Kim & Melissa at the Chictopia 10 Conference

Kim and Melissa at the Chictopia 10 Conference

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Designer Profile: Monica Botkier April 3rd, 2010 By

Monica Botkier, image from Botkier.com

Monica Botkier (photo courtesy of Botkier.com)

Over the last few years, we have seen a wave of new handbag designers and labels that focus more on innovation, quality and functionality.  I discovered Botkier handbags from fashion magazines and blogs, and have been a loyal follower ever since.

Monica Botkier has established an international accessories brand with devoted fans, including some of the hottest celebrity trendsetters like Beyonce, Halle Berry, Angelina Jolie, and Heidi Klum.  Botkier, a New York native, has been in the fashion industry since 2003.  She incorporated her photographer’s eye for detail with her urban chic Manhattan lifestyle to launch her first handbag collection.

Each collection consistently introduces fresh, edgy materials and designs.  Spring silhouettes include drawstring bags, crossbody style, and oversized satchels.  The embellishments and details have taken Botkier bags to a new level of sophistication with D-ring hardware, ruched leather, studded belting, multiple straps, horizontal zip pockets, and center cinche buckles. Each bag has so much character, making it almost impossible to choose a favorite!

Botkier James Hobo

Botkier James Hobo

In January 2010, Botkier opened her first store in New York’s NoLita district.  If you can’t make it to the flagship store, check out this video of PurseBlog’s Botkier Spring 2010 Preview and shop Botkier on beso!

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Zac Posen for Target + More! March 17th, 2010 By

zac_posen

Designer Zac Posen

Zac Posen has taken the fashion world by storm and has become a household name with celebrities such as Natalie Portman, Naomi Campbell, Beyoncé, Claire Danes and many more. He is known for his old Hollywood glamour-inspired evening gowns and his sultry, body hugging designs.  Many feel that the designer is a symbol for change in the fashion industry. 

Currently, Zac Posen is set to launch a lower priced collection for Target in April 2010. The collection is named 100% Zac, and is made for the woman who loves fashion without the couture price tag.  Target customers will enjoy printed dresses, swimsuits, and a few dressier pieces such as the tuxedo jacket.

Posen also launched Z Spoke on February 24 at Saks Fifth Avenue in NYC.  Z Spoke is different from Posen’s runway collections as it focuses on daywear rather than evening gowns.  Also, the sizes run up to a size 16 — great news for the curvy gals!

Check out all Zac Posen on beso for the latest deals and steals.

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Retail Interview: Gypsy 05 February 22nd, 2010 By

Caitlin and Justin Frech of Gypsy 05 at their L.A. Headquarters

Caitlin and Justin Frech of Gypsy 05 at their L.A. Headquarters

I had the opportunity to go to the Los Angeles headquarters of Gypsy 05 and meet with Marketing Manager, Justin Frech.  He gave me the inside scoop on this hot brand, which is a favorite amongst celebrities like Paris Hilton, Miley Cyrus, Zac Efron, Alessandra Ambrosio, Taylor Momsen, and Olivia Munn. I was lucky enough to get a sneak peek of the new collection; and while I can’t give anything away about the new designs, here’s what I can tell you about this awesome, eco-friendly label:

How Gypsy 05 got started:

Brother-sister duo Dotan and Osi Shoham are the masterminds behind the label.  Dotan brings his many years of experience in the dye industry, and Osi takes the helm as lead designer.  They launched the brand in 2005 because they saw an opportunity to bring a unique vision to life: SoCal bohemian-inspired clothing with an emphasis on comfort.  What began mainly as a t-shirt company has now evolved into dresses, pants, and accessories.

How they developed a following:

For being relatively new to the scene, Gypsy 05 has an impressive list of celebrity clientele and a loyal following.  Perhaps the one design that put them on the map is their hugely-popular cotton maxi dress.  Today, their continued success can be attributed to the quality and comfort of their designs, and word of mouth is a powerful PR tool (also check them out on their facebook fan page).  Celebrity clientele, who are photographed in the designs on a regular basis, keep coming back for more.  Gypsy 05 has also developed relationships with stylists and wardrobe assistants, who have featured their designs on TV shows like Gossip Girl, The Daily Ten, and American Idol.

Where their inspiration comes from:

Born and raised in Israel and currently living in southern California, Osi draws much of her inspiration from her natural surroundings.  The ocean, nature, and respect for the environment are apparent in the colorful, flowing designs of each piece.  Tie dye and organic shapes are signatures to the collection.

On being eco-friendly:

All of their products are made locally in the Los Angeles area using eco-conscious manufacturing processes.  They use organic fabrics whenever possible, and the color process uses low-impact dyes and water-based printing.  As far as they know, they are the only clothing manufacturer in the United States that have installed solar panels to power their office and factory.  100% of their headquarters’ operations is powered by the solar electricity that these panels generate!

What looks we can expect to see this summer:

We can expect to see a lot of their signature prints in the form of flowing silk mini-dresses and jumpsuits.  Updated versions of their sportswear have already been pre-released with huge success.  And in a new twist, some shredded, rocker-inspired items are also being added to the Gypsy 05 summer collection.

Hints at their fall collection:

Staying true to their origins, Gypsy 05 will be releasing fall pieces featuring more bold colors and tie dye prints but will be branching out into new silhouettes.  Expect to see a combination of silk, jersey, and cotton fabrics, and as always, comfort and eco-friendliness will remain at the center of each design.

Where you can buy:

To purchase these products online, please visit the Gypsy 05 Official Site.  Fine department stores Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus also carry Gypsy 05 clothing.

What is Gypsy 05′s besobe so natural.

maxi_dress

Gypsy 05 Organic Maxi Dress

Gypsy 05′s Organic Maxi Dress in Tie Dye is one of their best-selling looks!

allie_jumper

Gypsy 05 Allie Silk Jumper

The Allie Silk Jumper is an example of some of the new styles Gypsy 05 is releasing for spring and summer 2010.

sweatshirt

Gypsy 05 Cut-Off Sweatshirt

Gypsy 05′s cut-off sweatshirt is another best-selling item.

jade_dress

Gypsy 05 Jade Silk Peasant Dress

The Jade Silk Peasant Mini-Dress is one of my personal favorites.  The silk fabric makes an easy transition from day to night!

- Caitlin for beso

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Designer Profile: Calypso & Vineyard Vines February 20th, 2010 By

Calypso Mabli Dress

Calypso Mabli Dress

Calypso St. Barth was founded in 1992 as a small boutique store, featuring resort wear from some of the most exotic locations across the world. Over the past 16 years, the company has grown from a small collection of high-end shops into an international luxury lifestyle brand. But one thing has remained the same over the years and throughout the changes: Calypso embodies the feel of warm beach breezes, spring rains and hot summer nights somewhere beautiful.

I’ve been a fan of Calypso clothing for several years now. I remember walking past their storefront in Sunset Plaza, and no matter what the weather or the time of day, one look at their window displays, and I felt like I was on the beach in Fiji or Bali or Bora Bora. Few designers are

Calypso Nuna Shirt

Calypso Nuna Shirt

able to embody the feeling of spring and summer so wholly, but Calypso St. Barth does the job and then some.

As you prepare to defrost from winter and celebrate spring, can you think of a better way to get into a warm-weather state of mind than with these beautiful caftans and tunics and dresses?

Even better, many of Calypso’s prettiest pieces are currently on sale on

Calypso Senona Dress

Calypso Senona Dress

beso – just in time to awaken those bright green daffodils in your defrosting spring heart!

Vineyard Vines is equally breezy and beachy, but a bit more laid back. Started in 1998, The Vineyard Vines frame of mind is a little bit preppy with a dash of Nantucket and a dollop of its home base of Martha’s Vineyard mixed in.

Vineyard Vines Sailboat Tie

Vineyard Vines Sailboat Tie

With sporty collections of ties, cummerbund sets, boxers, college pride wear, mens’ and ladies’ clothes and accessories,Vineyard Vines has your beach lifestyle needs completely covered (even when you are barely covered and ready to swim!), so that everyday will feel like a day on Martha’s Vineyard.

Whether you prefer the elegance of Calypso or the beach/collegiate/golf lifestyle philosophy

Vineyard Vines Jupiter Dress

Vineyard Vines Jupiter Dress

of Vineyard Vines, here at beso, we’ve got everything you need for spring and summer – and those golden, sunny days are right around the corner, no matter what that groundhog says!

Heat things up right now on beso!

Vineyard Vines Patchwork Madras Cargo Shorts

Vineyard Vines Patchwork Madras Cargo Shorts

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Profile Interview: Rebecca Stice’s POV February 19th, 2010 By

rs_camera

Rebecca Stice, The Clothes Horse

The widely read blogger, Rebecca Stice (23) of The Clothes Horse, recently participated in a panel at the chictopia 10 conference. In catching up with her, we learned that she started blogging almost 3 years ago as a form of personal expression upon returning to Pennsylvania after living in Japan for six months. With her post-college plans currently pointing to a career as a (J.A.G) lawyer, we’re certain that her she’ll apply her interpretations of law as judiciously as she does her unique sensibility for fashion & style. So, herewith is what Rebecca opines.

Q&A
beso: What’ your favorite pair of jeans right now?
Rebecca Stice: I have a dark green pair of Cheap Monday jeans. They’re surprisingly comfortable despite being skinnies and I love that they’re not a traditional color.

b: What bag(s) are you carrying right now?
RS: I just found this vintage croc doctor bag that barely holds my camera. It makes me feel dainty and elegant, a nice contrast from my usual massive, tote bags.

b: What gloss are you wearing right now?
RS: I don’t wear lip gloss; I just like Chapstick.

b: What stores are calling out to you? What stores are you drawn into?
RS: Right now, I like vintage stores and antique malls where you hunt around and find random bits of clothes between cluttered bookshelves and carosel horses.

Votive Light

Votive Light

b: What color is your new black?
RS: I’ve actually never been into black, but I love blues. Lately, I like navy and I am reawakening my love for teal.

Navy Stockings

Navy Military Band Jacket & Stockings

b: What’s your favorite LBD?
RS: A simple BDG tank dress with pockets; it is really comfortable in summer and can be styled so many different ways.

b: What’s your favorite vintage piece?
RS: A brown feather fascinator, the colors of the feathers blend seamlessly with my hair and since it is a neutral it goes with everything.

b: What Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court (past or present) do you most admire?
RS: Sandra Day O’Connor, I admire her on so many levels and agree with her case-by-case approach to judicial decisions and political views.

b: Lastly, we’d like to know: What’s your beso? My beso is: “be so compassionate”
RS: Choose happiness.

Well, Rebecca, we wish you much happiness and continued success with The Clothes Horse. Enjoy chocolate!

Handful of Chocolate

Handful of Chocolate

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Designer Profile: Alexander McQueen February 18th, 2010 By

Lee Alexander McQueen at the finale of his Spring 2010 Ready To Wear Show, image from Style.com

Lee Alexander McQueen at the finale of his Spring 2010 Ready To Wear Show, image from Style.com

The fashion world was shaken on February 11th to learn that Lee Alexander McQueen had committed suicide at age 40.  In the midst of New York Fashion Week, the loss of one of fashion’s best and brightest cast a shadow over Bryant Park.  McQueen’s shows were always cutting edge, exciting and daring.  His fashion vision was singular.

McQueen rose from a working-class background on merit of his incredible talent.  He worked through various apprenticeships on London’s Savile Row and honed his talent for tailoring before becoming head designer at Givenchy in 1996.  He went on to establish his own lines Alexander McQueen and McQ, where he was able to design without constraint.  He was honored as British Designer of the Year four times between 1996 and 2003.

McQueen dressed fashion trend-setters like Sarah Jessica Parker, Rihanna and Lady Gaga.  Lady Gaga wore McQueen in her Bad Romance video, including the fantastic (and scary) Armadillo shoes.

Lee Alexander McQueen and his dedication to individuality will be sorely missed by all of us.

View images from his runway shows at Style.com.
Find Alexander McQueen and McQ on beso.

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chictopia.com – democratizing fashion February 18th, 2010 By

chictopia.com

chictopia.com

I’ve been following chictopia for some time now, and have been impressed with the site’s tremendous success in building a lively and active community around fashion and personal style. But after attending the chictopia 10 conference during Fashion Week, my appreciation for what Helen Zhu, Corrine Chan and the rest of the chictopia team has accomplished has grown considerably.

At its core, chictopia is democratizing people’s ability to express their personal style and tastes and, at the same time, lets style-seekers discover trends and looks that match their tastes, shape and body size.

My favorite features of the site include the ability to upload photos of yourself (or looks you like), to tag them with the brands you’re wearing, and to create polls to get feedback on the look from other members of the community. To foster community engagement and participation in polls and other activities, site members can earn chic rewards, which are redeemable for items from popular brands like American Apparel.

I uploaded a few handy photos and created polls around them. How’s my hula-hooping?

Hula Hooping (poorly) at a Fourth of July Parade, 2009

Hula Hooping (poorly) at a Fourth of July Parade, 2009

If you like to express your style, use chictopia as your fashion soapbox. I, for one, will be following their success!

Ps. Here are some photos from the chictopia 10 conference.

Jane Aldrigde, seaofshoes.com

Jane Aldridge, seaofshoes.com

Erin Hagstrom, calivintage.com

Erin Hagstrom, calivintage.com

Greta (L), from gretaguide.com; Rebecca Stice (R), ClothesHorse

Greta (L), from gretaguide.com; Rebecca Stice (R), ClothesHorse

Judy Aldrigde, Atlantis Home

Judy Aldridge, Atlantis Home

Dave Cook, thefind.com

Dave Cook, thefind.com

Conference Attendees

Conference Attendees

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