POP LIFE inside SMASH HITS magazine

I recently attended an event with my good journo friend, James Gorman called POP LIFE!

I actually had no idea what the event was I was just told that the theme was 80's so I had to dress that way!

Naturally, since I feel like I am stuck in the 80's I rushed to put an outfit together! 

With thanks to my sister in law Tiana Canterbury this is what we managed to come up with!


My partner in crime decided to opt for the legendary MJ outfit, which he had ordered in from China!

I was quite surprised James had gone to such lengths for this event so naturally was looking forward to an eventful night!


Only thing is that on arrival James and I and two other girls were the only people dressed for the occasion! We had a good laugh!

It was only after scouting the room that I realised we were at a book launch.

We were immediately greeted by the author of the book called "POP LIFE" - Marc Andrews who shook our hands and said "Love your outfits".  I felt like hired entertainment.

The one free drink we received took me back! It was a drink that went dancing off the shelves in the 80's called "Passion Pop" it tasted exactly the same as it did back then only worse - Vomit in a can with bubbles!.

Back in the day it was in a bottle, now a can, but I guess it was an appropriate sponsor fitting in with the "POP" theme.

Marc Andrews, Claire Isaac and David Nichols were all writers and editors in Australia's biggest selling POP magazine "SMASH HITS", which was printed from 1984 - 2007 before its demise into digital world.

POP LIFE is an unofficial "insider's guide" to all the happenings at "Smash Hits" magazine head quarters Australia and the adventures of the writers and the amazing interviews they and people they met.

The book talks about the creation of "Smash Hits" magazine, an in-depth description of its content and different sections and it takes you on the journey of their experiences, and what Australia was like in the 80's whilst POP music was thriving.

There is a section in the middle with pictures and autographs and excerpts which really remind of you of the original "SMASH HITS".

Each chapter is the name of an 80's tune and the writers really give an honest insight into what went on in "SMASH HITS" headquarters and it uses the dialect that they created for the magazine, of which you might see used in this blog.

It's just "POPTASTIC, POPERIFFIC and POPILICIOUS"!

Grab a copy of "POP LIFE" here http://www.affirmpress.com.au/ it is worth a read!

The event was fun for me. I loved being one of the only people dressed up. It was hosted by the very entertaining Jane Gazzo from Channel (V).

We got to see performances by none other than the 80's sensation and 2 hit wonder (well that's all I remember - 2 hits) Melissa Tkautz who by the way is looking amazing in her 40's and has apparently released another single.

Here's a secret I actually got to work with Melissa (back in the day when I was studying Drama) in a play where she played the Queen and I played her regal servant I had to stand beside her fanning her with a palm! I was so excited! My dad on the other hand was completely disappointed you could imagine what it was like living in "not so" multi cultural Australia back in those days!

We also heard the amazing David Campbell belt out two 80's tracks sounding just like Jimmy only more soulful. "Crumbs".

 

Also, the "Introvert Extravert" guy attempted to 2 sings 2 songs one which he apparently learnt the night before and the other his own song, both of which he had to read the lyrics and failed to make eye contact with the audience. I walked to get a drink half through his performance.

The lady who stole the show on a performance level was definitely "Chrissy Bray from We Go Bang Bang" she "Pumped Up the Jam" and "Pushed it Real Good" on the stage and got the crowd going.

I just love 80's music!

Other "girls" that were present on the night were 3 of the original 
members of the group "GIRLFRIEND" - remember them? I loved all their music well their 1 album! Robyn still looks amazing.

Here's another secret I was in a group back in the 90's when "Girlfriend" were around, I was 16 years old, we had a recording contract on the table with "Regular Records" ("Kate Cebrano's label at the time) they wanted us to take on "Girlfriend", but the deal fell through.

I may have been on the cover of "Smash Hits" magazine. Boing!

My favourite part of the "SMASH HITS" magazine was the pull out posters!

I could not wait to pick up a copy so I could cover my walls and school books in posters of my favourite artists.

If you like me are a child who grew when you waited for "SMASH HITS" magazine to hit the shelves then make sure you grab a copy of "POP LIFE".

I was lucky enough to be given a copy for this review and Marc & Claire signed it for me.

So grab your copy, it will take you on journey way back "back into time".

"Take it from Me!"

ANGELS THOUGHTS

LEOPARD ANGEL

Angel Champion

@sexcangel

Dark in Character, Intense in Taste

Most people in my world know that I am scotch drinker and I always say it takes a strong woman to drink a scotch, on the rocks.

So when my friend James invited me along to the offical Sydney launch of Johnnie Walker Double Black (JWDB), I was naturally intrigued (as I like all things black ;) ) and I said to him - Johnnie "DOUBLE" Black - yes I'm there!

Notice the leopard print.. ;)

On arrival at the launch at The Bellevue Hotel in Paddington we were greeted by a beautiful red head named Sasha and her very intelligent counterpart Ed.  Sasha reminded me of "Poppy Montgomery" from that crime show "Unforgettable", both Ed and Sasha were very welcoming.

After a brief introduction, we made our way to the "upstairs" section of the stylishly renovated hotel where we were greeted by another lovely lady, who invited us try a JWDB drink at the very strategically decorated bar.

 At the first sip, I knew I was going to enjoy this blend.  The whisky gives off a smoky aroma and as it hits the palette, an orange zest taste sizzles on the tongue...as it makes it's way down the esophagus it is smooth, smoky and silky - no more burn.

In my younger years I would drink Johnnie Red with a mixer, (soda & fresh lime) but as the palette has aged, I have become more of a single malt on the rocks kind of gal. Johnnie Black would be the only blend that I would drink also on the rocks I am happy to say now though, that John Walker and Sons have done it!

With JWDB they have found the perfect blend, they have created a single malt tasting scotch - it's so smooth and I am happy it's my new drink!
As the night went on, we were approached by my friend David, from Mi Society to take a picture at the media wall with Johnnie Walker Brand Ambassador, Charlie Downing, what a handsome young man he was.

After taking the photo we then ventured over to the sampling room where we were given a very informative crash course by JW educator, Luke Reddington on how the smoky flavoured Double Black came about and what we could expect from the taste.

Check out Luke's Arm bands from
back in the 80's

We compared JW Black to JW Double Black
mmmmm smoother ;)

Taken from their comp card, here's,"HOW TO TASTE JOHNNIE WALKER DOUBLE BLACK":

AROMA - Smokiness, The Atlantic

FIRST SIP - Orange Zest, Rich intense and smoky, notes of spice

PALATE - Smoke, Dried Fruits, Creamy Vanilla

FINISH - Resonating smoke, fuller finish of rich fruit

SERVE - Best served with water: this is the perfect way to release the smoky flavours

Luke knew his stuff. 

We then ventured back to the bar for a very strong JWDB cocktail with a dash of Absynth (I couldn't drink it) and bumped into Les Hill, who was enjoying a couple of scotches, we had a brief chat, nice fellow. No photo sorry.

Towards the end of the night we learnt about the "perfect" JWDB served over chopped ice (it doesn't water it down). For me the perfect drink!

It was a great event, great job done by the organisers and it is a great tasting whisky!

I really think the JWDB best describes me "DARK IN CHARACTER, INTENSE IN TASTE". ;)

So go on, head to the bar or the bottle shop and try it. but always drink responsibly.

Angel
xxx

Follow the Yellow Brick Road

I have been following the Celebrity Apprentice since the show launched, mainly because my good friend Andrew Morello won the very first season.

I have really enjoyed watching the show and believe it to be entertaining and educating.  Some parts were a little bit corny and over done, but for the most part it was worth watching.

Morello invited me to the filming of the final episode, which will air tonight, I brought some of my girls along with me and we were also accompanied by the world's best Business, Motivational coach and Corporate Warrior - Jacob Galea - blessed to be in his presence that evening if you don't know him you better get to know him.

Therese Hanna, 
Jacob Galea Angel & Friend

Upon arrival at the beautifully located, Taronga Zoo Function Centre we all rallied outside and networked.

Therese Hanna, Angel & Friend



Jacob Galea, Angel, Andrew Morello,
Therese Hanna







As we entered the first part of the venue, we were greeted with a huge camera and lights.  My girls and I were the first to walk in.

As I walked in I saw one of my idols from way back and now friend, Deni Hines first so gave her a big hug!

We then walked to the front of the room and drank champagne and nibbled on some sort of pork canape until the show started.

The Project - to create a television ad campaign for Mr Bouris' Yellow Brick Road.

The first campaign was created by 2 Celebrity finalists Jesinta Campbell and Shane Crawford; they also brought back Deni Hines and Didier Cohen to help them out.

We spoke to Jesinta an she was just lovely and looked absolutely stunning  in the most amazingly beautiful sparkly number! Deni made us laugh and Didier was a bit of a snob - waiving from afar - maybe he was shy.

I found their presentation to be quite wholesome and nice.  I really liked their television commercial because it featured a multi-cultural husband and wife couple and Deni Hines sang the hook.

We were then ushered out to the second presentation room but had to wait outside on the balcony, until they were ready to film, we soaked up the views.


The Second campaign was created by Julia Morris and Jason Coleman; they also brought Max Markson and Polly back to help out.

Not sure what Polly did, but the entire event and campaign came together well.

Upon entering the room we walked in under a rainbow of yellow balloons and followed the yellow carpet to our tables, we were presented with a yellow Mango Daiquiri and a yellow rose - I love all this - in my world presentation is everything and I am guessing Max gave it the wow factor!

 

Jason Coleman would have to be one of the best presenters and public speakers and I have told him this several occasions.

Julia Morris is just so funny, she had us in stiches - Make sure you check out her red sparkly shoes - Dorothy! ;) The two of them together in their presentation fed off eachother and were just brilliant!

Their commercial was humorous and effective - "Every Step of the Way".

It was a great night, the room was filled with colourful characters and thanks to Andrew we got to say a quick hello to Mr Bouris, although he was in a rush to leave.

On our way out we each got given a yellow "Yellow Brick Road" chocolate cup cake - delicious and that stayed in my mind for quite some time!

Salvatore Coco & Jacob Galea

Angel, Morello, Therese Hanna

The reality series, if nothing else was seriously entertaining and of course a huge plug for the Bouris empire.  I am looking forward to watching the final challenge tonight.

Follow the Yellow Brick Road.

Angel
xxx

Boutique Shopping

I  am avid shopper and I am referring to shopping for clothes, shoes, belts, bags, accessories, most woman's obsessions.

My mother refers to me on a regular basis as "Imelda Marcos" for my extensive shoe collection - she thinks I'm crazy! Well I am.

Angels Shoes

Angels Shoes

Imelda's Shoes

        

My friends frequently shop in my room as there are so many items to choose from and you never know what you will find, hats, bags, shoes, unique accessories - I'm an addict!

As I have slowly become woman, I have veered away from mainstream shopping malls and stores and venture more into boutiques!  Now-a-days (is that even a word?) when I am out pounding the streets I am always looking for cute boutiques with unique or one-off pieces and also a good bargain!

Unique pieces are so important to me that when I walk into a store I spend at least 20 minutes trawling through each item on the racks in search of that special item - the one that nobody has or that nobody will wear! ;)

Since working in retail I don't believe in paying full price for anything, some of you may think I am cheap but I prefer to call it astute.  Everytime I ask for a discount, I normally get it. (Try it)  Even if it is 10%, I am happy that they looked after me.  It really it works in their favour, because I ALWAYS go back and I spread the word amongst my girlfriends and family. (Not about the discount but about the store :) ).

I have taken so many of my people into so many boutiques over the years.

Sydney, has so many hidden exclusive stores that stock items in lesser quantities so that you can be sure when you walk down the street you will not see someone else wearing your pretty dress.

I wish I could showcase them all but herein lies a few of my most loved... Places I frequent located in my favourite part of Sydney.

 - 190 Harris St, Pyrmont NSW - Website



Stocking fun, fresh current fashion - Party dresses, Silky Kaftans, jeans, shorts, skirts, sexy shoes, fabulous accessories you name it they have it!  All at the most reasonable prices!

Leading lady Sandradee certainly has a great sense of style and  a great eye for fashion! She knows what a young funky woman wants.

Not too mention her warm welcoming persona.  If she is in the store when you walk in she will make you feel comfortable with words of welcome and with her beautiful smile!

I feel at home when I shop in St Frock.  Sandradee has definitely rubbed off on all the girls that work there as they provide very good service and make you feel like you are shopping in your own wardrobe - no pressure, just pleasure!

The layout of the store is really cool and warm and Sandradee leaves little special notes everywhere.. it's just so cool! :)

NB: I chose the ANGEL bag! ;))

For those of you that can't make it in you can shop online here - ST FROCK or on their website (above).

Check out this cool vid of St Frocks first birthday celebration! (Courtesy of my friends at UNSEEN TV).   See if you can spot me! :) What a fun night it was - thanks Sandradee! ;)

Head on down to St Frock ladies! You'll be smiling all the way home! ;)

 - 125 Harris Street Pyrmont - Website

Another little local icon I love and which co-incidently I used to work at many moons ago is City Flair!

Located right in the heart of the historic Pyrmont precint 1km from the heart of Sydney this store sure is a little gem.
On arrival at City Flair you need to appreciate the beautiful baronial style building which houses it, it happens to be one of Pyrmont's heritage listings and rightfully so.  Please also take note of the logo crown's, appropriately placed in the frosted windows.
Not only do they specialise in clothing for the 'mature' woman and some rare jewellery and accessories, City Flair is a place where you can find specialised gifts, clothes and accessories for your little bambinos and some very useful items for parents.



The beautiful owner Leanne, one of the loveliest people I know, loves her little boutique and takes pride in the presentation of the store and is always there to help you.

One of the great things about City Flair is that they support Australian designers.

If you can't make it in and need a birthday, kris kringle or any other gift in a hurry you can also shop online just click the link above.  They also gift wrap with the most beautiful wrapping paper.

At City Flair - they aim to please and every customer leaves satisfied. ;)
2 other stores I shop at:

Moss - 7 Union Street Pyrmont

Located in the heart of union square Cute dresses, jackets, tops and jeans. Ask for Jade, she's a sweetie. ;)

 - 197 Harris Street, Pyrmont NSW - WEBSITE



Frou Frou stock woman's clothing and shoes and they make their own unique jewellery.



I LOVE boutique shopping!