trade secrets nov 2014

November 2014

Behind The Seams; A Backstage View from an Intern

Cristian Feliz PicciniA Lover. Not a Fighter.

sixth annual lupus fundraiser

'runway for a cure'Our Foray

into the Week of Fashion, In Boston

| Trade Secrets | 2014 Volume 2, Issue 7 | tradesecretsmag.com| 401.353.49402

A Backstage View from an Intern

| 401.353.4940 | tradesecretsmag.com | Trade Secrets | Volume 2, Issue 7 | 3

INDEX

Behind The Seams; A Backstage View from an Intern


Rebecca Flores Teaches Us to SerLieve

........50Cha–Cha–Cha Chia: NOT Just a Homegrown Pet

runway for a cure;sixth annual lupus fundraiser

Our Foray into the Week of Fashion, In Bostonpg.10

pg. 26

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Stay Fabulous! Y

FROM THE EDITOR

an it really be just one more month until the holidays? I feel as if the year has flown by, and you probably feel the same as well. All I can say is, “yikes!”C

Anyway, just before we hit the holiday craze, we have another good one for you this month. Starting with our cover feature – Cristian Feliz, our Talent Talks model, tells us about his dreams as a kid, and his journey to the world of modeling, and at his photo shoot, the team had a grand old time showcasing that beautifully chiseled torso! You’re welcome, ladies.

Our newest columnist, Nichole Rich covers our health and wellness segment and she writes, this month, about Chia seeds. They are not just for the random holiday gift for your co-worker! They do have many health benefits, so grab yourself a handful and read the article as you munch.

Last July, as our regular readers will recall, the Handweavers Guild of America had their convention in Providence, Rhode Island, and we covered the “All The Jazz” runway show. It was Dahlia Neeman’s very first foray into the back-stage on-goings of a professional fashion show, and she shares her experience.Oh, and we were out on the town in full force last month! From Boston Fashion Week to Runway for a Cure to benefit the Lupus foundation, read our recap of the different shows we saw.

Rebecca Flores is an artist, a poet and so much more. Our features columnist, Emy takes us on a trip through her life, her trials, her losses and her triumphs. Such an inspirational story.As always, we cover the spectrum - fun, learning, entertainment and, yep, inspiration!

Enjoy…


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Many thanks, Beth and Kathy” (Co-owners of Silver Hippopotamus)

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IN THE GREEN ROOM

Behind The Seams;

By Dahlia Neeman Photos: Valencio Small

hen I initially found out Donahue Models was going to be running a fashion show for the Handweavers Guild of America (http://www.weavespindye.org/), I had no idea what W

to expect. I had never been to a fashion show before, much less worked on one. I was excited to find out what goes into running such a show.

A Backstage View from an Intern

“It was a high-energy show and with so much going on backstage, the time seemed to fly by.”

“It was amazing to me how they were able to exit the hectic environment backstage to walk the runway so gracefully.”


Two days before the show, a group of us met up to organize the outfits and then had the models come in for fittings. This should be simple, I thought. Boy, was I wrong. We had to make sure that each piece fit its designated model. Some models had to swap outfits. Each piece had to be handled carefully since the fabrics were so delicate. Some came with multiple pieces and we had to figure out where each piece was supposed to go. But eventually, we worked it all out and the outfits were lined up.

By the day of the show, I was nervous. I had to line up each model before they went on the runway. How was I supposed to learn 20 models names in a day? But it went more easily than I thought. The models were very professional. They made sure to check the line-up to see when they were going on – which made my job much easier! After rehearsals as the models got ready, the rest of us worked on last min-ute changes. Then, it was time for the show to begin. It was a high-energy show and with so much going on backstage, the time seemed to fly by.

In retrospect, I hadn’t realized how much work went into these shows, but I also hadn’t known how much fun it would be. Everyone was working hard, and the environment was full of energy and excitement.

It was amazing seeing outfits handmade by students from all over the world. There was so much detail and thought put into every piece. Every look was unique in its fabric, color and design. The models walked onto the runway with the lights flashing, the music blasting and hundreds of eyes staring up at them.

Some models had very little down time. After walk-ing down the runway, they had to rush off the stage, change, and be back on ready to go within seconds. It was amazing to me how they were able to exit the hectic environment backstage to walk the runway so gracefully.

There were so many people involved in the show. There were at least 10 volunteers helping the mod-els change and organize the clothes! But what made the experience so amazing was everyone had such a positive and fun attitude. All of the volunteers were willing to help in any way they could and go the extra mile. The show would not have been successful with-out the help of every single person.

A Backstage View from an Intern“It was amazing to me how they were able to exit the hectic environment backstage to walk the runway so gracefully.”


ON THE TOWN

Our Foray into the Week of Fashion, In Boston

nd so it began, the 20th year of Boston Fashion Week. The Trade Secrets team took in a few of the shows and we bring you our recap of our week.A

By: The Trade Secrets Team


Photo WG

Images courtesy of Provida Fashion


SUNDAYNigel RamsayGliding through the dining room of the Vlora Restau-rant on Boylston Street on the Sunday afternoon, the models of designer, Nigel Ramsey looked breezy and elegant. The prolific collection featured gauzy tops, flowing dresses (both long and short) and gorgeously tailored separates in linen and jersey. Sensuous music reflected the warm color palette; soft grey, tan, tan-gerine, a sage green palm print, among them.

Ramsey opened the show with relaxed looks worthy of a Caribbean vacation. Flowing maxi dresses with convertible-strap bodices, linen separates tailored to flatter and a few menswear looks in equally luscious fabrics graced the runway. The designer then gradu-ated to more tailored looks including classic cut day dresses and a beautiful duster coat with interesting details on the back. Evening wear closed the show with gorgeous floor-skimming plaid skirts shown with sheer, lace blouses. The tea length, striped ball skirt was a crowd favorite.

Ramsey keeps a woman’s physique in mind when designing. His sumptuous fabric choices are molded into art that is made for motion.

The LaunchTo officially open Boston Fashion Week, five new designers were cho-sen to be a part of THE LAUNCH. Held at the beautiful W Hotel, Ty Sinnett opened with a beautiful interpretation of her native Martha’s Vineyard. The collection featured a creative mix of bold, bright patterns with soft neutrals and cool, oce-anic hues. The flowing lines of the garments showed a creative take on classic tailoring. These looks were, then, accented by bold jewelry in organic shapes. The designs were a perfect blend of traditional New Eng-land and modern, island life. Up-cycling has a new hero in Maryanne Meservey. The designer repurposes discarded clothing to make new, fun and fresh garments. There is nothing “arts & crafts” or “patchwork” about these looks. Chic scarves are fashioned from old sweaters and a leather coat was cut into a tuxedo-style jacket with elongated tails. The crowd favorite was a ball skirt (worn with a leather bustier) made from men’s white dress shirts.

Meservey takes pride in allowing the “previous life” in her garments to shine through and describes her aesthetic as “eco-punk.”

A hint of skater-style shows through in Chynna Pope’s collection; feminine garments with a subtle, masculine edge were crafted in black and ivory. This simple color scheme emphasized the designer’s extraordinary workmanship. Jeans were cut to perfection, as was a flowing ivory gown with black leather detailing. Innovations such as a white button-down shirt with a hood illustrated the designer’s sense of adventure. Even Beacon Hill has never looked so chic!

East German, Dominique Quinque played with practicality in a 12 piece, mix-and-match collec-tion. Beautiful shades of plum, sage and brown gave the collection some softness. Her design trademark is the use of creating texture in her fabrics. These techniques give the garment shading or even the ap-pearance of a subtle print. Cropped silhouettes and a versatile (detachable) skirt train gave the collection a very modern vibe.

Drama was the theme of Jeffrey Dickerson’s collec-tion. Taking inspiration from Lady Gaga, the de-signer sent wearable art down the runway. Flamboy-ant details such as an oversized bib collar and reverse (upside down) peplums paid tribute to his pop idol. Simple, yet dramatic black and white color schem-ing kept the collection grounded. The audience gasped when the designer sent his ball gown to close the show. The bustier featured a pointed sweetheart neckline and the floral skirt must have been near five feet in diameter. It takes true talent to create such drama without looking like a costume. WEDNESDAYProvidaWe went back on Wednesday for the “Provida, Who Am I” show held at the Larz Anderson Auto Museum in Needham. The runway stretched out between the car displays - a classic Ford T automobile on one side and a pair of futuristic Tesla electric cars on the other. The night opened with a quick skit by ZaDon Fash-ions. Wearing fabulous jewelry, paired with evening and formal wear, the line featured figure-hugging dresses and a pantsuit, many with cutouts that


showed just the right amount of skin without going over the edge. The whole look was sexy and feminine for every body shape and size. A crowd favorite was a red and gold crop top and long matching skirt that had side slits up the thigh on both sides. Chic, trendy and contemporary - a great line for stepping out on the town for a glamorous night.

Next up was Rhode Island based designer and bou-tique owner, Martha Jackson of Restored by Design. This prolific and creative mind offers eco-conscious designs and accessories as well as home décor. Never afraid to mix patterns, the line had a very whimsical flair, and featured floral crowns, and fabrics filled with earthy tones and patterns. You are left with the feel-ing that you are deeply immersed in a sunny garden full of pixies who have just come out to play.

After a quick break, the show resumed with 1Eight-yTwo Fashions, that also featured an array of evening gowns. Elegant and flirty, many of the pieces extend-ed into elaborate trains and offered an interesting mix of cuts, colors and patterns.

Peaceful Fashions, was the next designer to present. Harlequin masks covered the models’ faces, as they showed a fascinating mix of styles reminiscent of the 1800s with a very modern twist. Short shorts and a bikini top layered under one-half of a boufant sleeve and frilled hem gave you pause for thought. Accord-ing to the designer, “the line is a unique celebration love and life.” All 100 percent hand-crafted, it is a “conscious chic functional style.”

Another quick break and we reconvened to the beat of some African drums and designs from the House of Nahdra, inspired by the spiritual positivity. Nah-dra is known for her dexterous play on layers. Lots of them. From harem pants to an all gold tube dress and cape, this is for the woman who is unafraid of her own self-expression. With several interconnected pieces, it is very ‘African meets modern.”

Suki’s Dare Wear closed the evening. Black base dresses was the overarching theme, with various ac-cents, in tulle, multi layered skirts, and capes. This designer’s focus is on the overall composure of the woman and how she moves. Suki believes that “what you wear should celebrate who you are.” And cel-ebrate, she did.

FRIDAYMarilyn Riseman Luncheon SeriesIn honor of the recently deceased fashion icon, the late Marilyn Riseman, veteran model Jane Conway hosted the luncheon series at Joe Brasserie featur-ing designer Kinda Tfashions. Held in the middle of lunch hour, models sauntered between the tables and amidst the diners, showing off beautifully executed formal dresses and gowns. Versatility comes to mind with this line, as several pieces could be worn as sepa-rates, or as a single ensemble. Part of the charm to this show was the ability to ask the model questions about a detail in the design. Models could stop and answer, and allow them to touch and feel, making it an interactive experience.

Hype FashionsAnd then off to Winthrop we went to catch the HYPE Fashions (www.hypefashions.com) runway show. The event highlighted three different collections, all bring-ing something fresh to the event and fashion week in general. A major highlight of the event had to do with Bianca Golden, a former America’s Next Top Model contestant and star who walked in the show alongside local models. Arriving directly from New York just for the show, Bianca brought a fun and exciting ele-ment to the event atmosphere. First posing on the red carpet, guests then made their way to their seats. For an added element there were four merchandise displays set up for guests to browse including handbags from My Couture Planet (www.coutureplanet.com), jewelry from Stella and Dot (http://www.stelladot.com/sites/kendracampbell), Adornments by Artsix (http://www.etsy.com/shop/artsix), and garments from La Petite Boutique (www.lapetiteboutique.us). It was close to 8:00 pm when the event got started which was introduced by Sarah Roth-Oosten, owner and founder of HYPE Fashions (www.hypefashions.com) and La Petite Boutique (www.lapetitebou-tique.us). First to be shown was a curated collection from La Petite Boutique, a small boutique located in Winthrop, MA which houses vintage, designer, and up-cycled women’s wear. Each outfit was carefully planned and strutted down the runway on the models with an everyday ease highlighted by a funky under-tone.


Photo Hill Zhou courtesy of Provida Fashion


Next to be showcased was the latest collection from Sterlingwear of Boston (www.sterlingwear.com). Sterlingwear is a brand of coats and jackets whose corporate headquarters and manufacturing facility re-side in East Boston. They are known for having a long running contract with the US Navy as suppliers of the US Naval Peacoat but also create classic and wearable versions of pea coats, capes, trench coats, and every day jackets for men and women.

Finally, the last fashion segment showcased a very interesting collection from Ukraine native Veronika Tyupova. Ms. Tyupova currently resides outside of Philadelphia, PA but enthusiastically made her way to Boston to participate in Boston Fashion Week. Her Avant Garde collection was an absolute showstopper with each look more interesting than the previous. Composed of long, beautiful, ornate skirts, blouses, and accessories, the collection was shown beautifully on the statuesque models wearing them. Finished with hair and makeup styling that made you do a double take, the show provided something you’ve eas-ily never seen before

SATURDAYThe After partyWe made one final trip up for the afterparty – which included a digital exhibition titled “Expressions; The Faces of Boston Fashion Week,” held, once again, at the W Hotel. With a huge turnout, it appeared that everyone, who was anyone in the fashion industry, was in attendance for this night. Milling from room to room the party spanned the entire first floor, with large screens hoisted against the walls, the digital exhibition played on a continuous loop and featured the faces of the various players, behind the scenes, who made the entire week possible. From photogra-phers, stylists and the make up artists, to the fashion designers, sponsors, and patrons the montage brought a very personal, very human side to, what could only be described as, an incredible week. Halfway through the night, Stylist Teri Mahn took a moment to acknowledge Jay Calderin, the executive producer and force behind the entire event, congratu-lating him on a job well done, and his 20th year of coordinating this monstrous project. And from the team here at Trade Secrets, we say, “kudos, Jay and here’s to the next 20!”

Photos: Todd Lee


Photos: Matt W

right Photography


ON THE TOWN

runway for a cure; sixth annual lupus fundraiser

hances are, you know someone who suffers from Lupus. Here in Rhode Island, more than 5,000 Rhode Islanders are living - and trying to cope - with Lupus. With 1.5 million Ameri-c

cans and five million people worldwide affected, Lupus strikes mainly women between 15 and 45 years old. Lu-pus is two to three times more prevalent among wom-en of color -- African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, Asians, Native Americans, Alaska Natives, Native Ha-waiians and other Pacific Islanders -- than among Cau-casian women. This devastating chronic autoimmune disease can damage many parts of the body, especially skin, joints, blood and kidneys. Lupus is unpredictable and potentially fatal, with NO CURE. This is why we are continuing our fight to help end Lupus!

Photos: Valencio Small


The Lupus Foundation of New England, working with a group of Rhode Island volunteers, hosted the sixth annual Runway for a Cure event on Tuesday, October 21, 2014 at the Providence Biltmore Hotel. Proceeds benefit critical research efforts to help find a cure for Lupus.

Aida Crosson, coordinated the event and runway show, with a group of volunteers supporting the Lupus Foundation of New England. Sponsors included So-nya’s, Shoppe Pioneer, Lanzi’s Furs, Siren Group, Dave Anthony Productions, Grace Ormonde wedding style, Calma Salon, Ray’s Flower’s Shop, Taveras & Associ-ates, Telemundo Providence and WPMZ Poder 1110.

The Runway for a Cure cocktail reception, silent auction and fashion show is an evening dedicated to increasing Lupus awareness in Rhode Island and rais-ing funds for continued research efforts. Some of the silent auction items included Boston Celtics tickets, golf outings at Metacomet Country Club and Kirkbrae, Newport helicopter ride, hotel stays in Providence, Boston and Newport area, gift certificates to Rhode Island’s finest restaurants, spa packages, designer jew-elry….and more!


For Aida Crosson, it started over 20 years ago, when she was diagnosed with Lupus. “Though my condition has been increasingly challenging during the past few years, I consider myself very fortunate that currently my own case is relatively mild. Lupus is hidden from the view because people often times may not look sick. It is more pervasive than people think, and strikes on a scale that the public does not realize.”

According to Dr. Bonnie Bermas, Director, Center for Lupus and Antiphospholipid Antibody, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Assistant Professor of Medi-cine, Harvard Medical School, “Systemic Lupus Ery-thematosus (Lupus) is a systemic disorder that dispro-portionately impacts young Black, Latino and Asian women. These underserved populations, as well as all persons with Lupus need our help in developing better treatments for this disease, a better understand-ing of the causes and prevention of Lupus, and better resources for the support and education of those who suffer from this condition. ‘Runway for a Cure’ is an exciting and innovative event whose proceeds directly support the Lupus Foundation of New England, an organization that addresses these issues.”


TALENT TALKS

was the corny kid that my friends made fun of, because of how shy and romantic I was with the girls.” Dominican Republic native, Cristian A. Fe-liz Piccini explains. “Flowers, candy, poems and “I

singing were my ways to try to get to them.”

By Dahlia Neeman | Photos: Trisha Kelley | Video: Valencio Small | Hair and Make up: Meline Lee



Cristian Feliz Piccini


Having spent the last four years modeling, Cristian tells us how growing up he always knew he wanted to entertain in front of an audience. “Basketball was my first love and I dreamed of playing in the NBA. I realized I wanted to be a performer of some sort and even when I tried to get away from it, I kept getting pulled back into performing somehow. I love every branch of the arts, it feeds my soul.” Ankle problems prevented him from following his basketball dream, but Cristian has found a new passion in modeling. One of his greatest accomplishments has been walk-ing the runways of New York Fashion Week.

TS: When is your birthday?CF: June 18th (Gemini).

TS: Where did you grow up?CF: USA and Dominican Republic.

TS: What is your best memory as a child?CF: Playing baseball and basketball here in the USA and Dominican Republic.

Describing himself as easy going, and respectful, Pic-cini says that he usually likes to keep to himself until he feels comfortable enough to be friendly.

TS: How would your mother to describe you?CF: Hahahaha, my mother literally introduces me to people as the ugly one of her sons, but I think she would say that I am a very emotional person.

TS: How about your friends?CF: Laid back and sincere.

He started modeling four years ago, when “a friend just threw” him in a show at the Roxy in Providence, R.I.

TS: What made you want to become a model?CF: I love being on stage. It’s accelerating, scary and fulfilling at the same time.

TS: What was your first modeling/acting experience like? CF: Frightening!

TS: Who influenced you in pursuing your dreams?CF: My Mother!

TS: Do you have a day job?CF: I work for the RI Internship Program, where we help supply every office in the state with interns.

TS: What was the last modeling job that you did?CF: New York Fashion Week.

No matter the size of the job, Cristian always gives it one hundred percent. “For me there’s no show too small or too big, I approach them all with the same respect and professionalism,” he explains.

TS: What has been your most memorable job so far?CF: This past spring I did a play in Spanish called “Deporte Nacional,” and it was, by far, the scariest experience as far as being on stage or a runway. I have a ton respect for actors and actresses especially in theater.

TS: Who was your favorite actor/actress growing up?CF: Sylvester Stallone. I was the biggest “Rocky” fan growing up, I even wanted to be a boxer because of it.

TS: Who inspires you to continue what you do?CF: Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, because he literally had nothing after his dream of playing in the NFL was crushed, but he continued plugging along and finally reached his goals!

TS: What obstacles have you had to overcome in order to become successful?CF: Managing time between work, modeling and family is the biggest challenge.

Meet Piccini once and one thing is clear, his sense of style is unique. “Comfortable, fitted, colorful and preppy,” is how he describes it. “I think it says that I am comfortable enough to wear anything as long as I like it.”

TS: What article of clothing do you currently have in your closet that makes you look and feel your best?CF: I love to dress in layers, so it has to be my denim jacket. It is versatile and you don’t have to treat it delicately.


He is inspired by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, because he…”had nothing, after his dream of

playing in the NFL was crushed, but he continued plugging along and finally

reached his goals!”


TS: What fashion trends do you like or dislike the most?CF: I love the European style slim cut suits and I don’t know if having your pants below your waist showing your butt is a fashion trend but I hate that.

TS: What clothing store do you love and find yourself going most when shopping?CF: H&M.

TS: If you could meet any model or designer who would it be?CF: Oscar de la Renta. He has dressed people like Jacqueline Kennedy, from royalty to film starts, and he’s been one of the best designers for more than five decades.

While he doesn’t get stressed too often, he says that when he does, he likes to “take out the weights.”

TS: What’s your favorite form of exercise?

CF: HIIT which stands for High Intensity Interval Training. It is a form of exercise in which you do four or five exercises in a row back to back, you rest for a minute and do it again three to five times.

TS: What country are you eager to travel to?CF: Europe in General, but Spain and Italy are my top picks

TS: Have you traveled anywhere exotic or wish to, in the future?CF: Exotic? Come on, I was born in a tropical island! But the beaches in Brazil sound and look like fun!

TS: Best vacation/travel experience?CF: Florida, and going back to Dominican Republic is always fun.

TS: If you were stranded on a deserted island, what five items would be a MUST-have?CF: A book because I imagine being there alone with no interactions has to be frustrating,


Meet Piccini once and one

thing is clear, his sense of style is unique. “Com-fortable, fitted,

colorful and preppy,” is how

he describes it. “I think it says that I am comfortable enough to wear anything as long

as I like it.”


“Click to go behind the scenes with Cristian”


“I love to dress in layers, so it has to be my denim jacket. It is versatile and you don’t have to treat

it delicately.”


TS: What magazine do you find yourself reading the most? CF: GQ magazine, Men’s Health, Trade Secrets, and some technology news sites on the web.

Cristian enjoys spending time with his family and going to movies. His favorite movie is the Matrix. “When Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) says, ‘If you never wake up from a dream, how would you know it was a dream?’…..that blew my mind!” And his favorite superhero - Wolverine, “because he’s a beast when it comes to defending the people he loves and I am the same way.”

TS: What types of TV shows do you enjoy the most?CF: I enjoy The Discovery Channel in general.

TS: What’s your favorite TV show of all time?CF: OMG, MacGyver! The way he could get out of trouble using everyday household items was incred-ible (a bazooka out of paper clips! I mean the guy could make anything out of nothing.

TS: What’s your favorite genre of movies?CF: I am a sucker for romantic comedies and action movies.

TS: If you were invited to be on a reality show, which one would you choose?CF: Jersey Shore, “Yeah buddy!” Do I need to say more?

TS: Who is your favorite comedian?CF: Dane Cook and Pablo Francisco.

TS: If you could meet any actor or actress who would it be?CF: Sylvester Stallone, because he’s been able to stay fit and able to do action movies for four decades.

Another interest of Piccini’s is cooking. “I enjoy making grilled tilapia,” he says, “with sauté vegetables and sweet potatoes.”

TS: What is your favorite restaurant?CF: Ichigo Ichie, I love the sushi there; and the white sangria is amazing

TS: What is your favorite drink?CF: Mojitos! The combination of brown sugar, white rum, club soda and mint is so refreshing and differ-ent!

TS: What’s you favorite type of music?CF: Salsa!

TS: Who is your favorite singer or band?CF: Marc Anthony and Justin Timberlake.

TS: Do you like to sing karaoke and what’s your fa-vorite song to sing?CF: Omg yes! Any Marc Anthony song but my favor-ite song to sing is “Maria” by Carlos Santana.

TS: Are you a better singer or dancer?CF: 50/50

TS: If you could learn to play a musical instrument, what would it be?CF: Piano.

He loves the fall season because of all the colors and the opportunity to dress in layers; and says that Christmas is his favorite holiday, “because the loved ones are together.”

TS: Share your favorite quoteCF: “Hope for the best, prepare for the worst, expect nothing and you’ll never get hurt!”

TS: What would you do with your first million if you made it big as a model/actor?CF: Help my family and the ones that helped me get there in any way possible, besides the usual car, house, travel shopping, etc.

TS: What’s the biggest piece of advice you have for other up and coming models/actors out there?CF: Easy come, easy go, nothing good happens over night!


“‘When Morpheus (Laurence

Fishburne) says, ‘If you never wake up from a dream, how would you

know it was a dream?’

…..that blew my mind!”


Abs are made in

the kitchen

Nichole Rich

Nutritional Health & Wellness Coaching

"9 day & 30 day systems for a healthier you"

[email protected]

(508)-243-2368





PURSUITS

Rebecca Flores Teaches Us to SerLieve

rt is always a form of expression, but few can put such pure emotion on a canvas as Rebec-ca Flores. Her paintings are raw, intense, col-orful and full of feeling, and the same is true A

for her poetry. Many include themes revolving around hope, love, and belief, and one can’t help but feel these themes while enjoying her art. Despite the heartbreak-ing loss of her daughter, Flores has remained a positive and inspiring force in the world of art.

Although such difficult trials through Flores’s life have brought new passion to her work, she was first influ-enced by the atmosphere in New York during her up-bringing.

By Emy LaCroix


TS: Where did you grow up, and how did it influence your craft?RF: I grew up in the South Bronx and lived through the artistic influence of the expressive sounds of music, night clubs, dance moves, tunes of the hip hop era, salsa and hustle era, rock and roll, spoken word, along with graffiti art and writings. Not to mention, religion, gangs, drugs, disease, adultery, poverty and slayings; all that took place during the 70’s and up to the mid 80’s at a time when the Puerto Rican migration and move-ment was materializing steadily and prompt. My experience was good and bad, however educational and worth living through which make up who I am, what I BELIEVE in with FAITH, VISION and the rich-ness of what I consist of; family, friends, art, poetry, music, inspiration, language and respect for my two children – my daughter Natasha Love Gonsalves (RIP) and son Joshua Elijah Amado.

TS: What was your dream growing up?RF: My dream growing up was many things, one was modeling and I did with Barbizon School of Modeling in NYC when I was Miss Hispanic American Beauty Pageant Participant, then coming here being a model for Donahue Models, however what described me was always to become a worldwide visual artist and poet that would reveal stories I can share with the world by transferring them on canvas or writing about it.

TS: Where did you study? Do you have a funny story from school?RF: When I was young I self taught myself by painting murals of women on the walls of my parents apartment where my siblings and I lived. It wasn’t until I was in my 20’s that I took a course or two at Fashion Institute of Technology, my passion for art was always there. However, in 1992, two years after moving to


Rhode Island I had a pioneer artist named Mathew Barros who tutored me up until 2002. Interesting, I cannot remember a funny story, although I do re-member how many of my classmates would call me Pinocchio because I was very skinny and had a long nose.

TS: What do you believe is your biggest influence or inspiration?RF: My biggest influence is my family – my parents who are Puerto Rican, Diasporas, and my siblings, although we don’t live close, we continue to inspire each other. But, mostly I have to say that it is both my parents; both were poets, my father an artist and col-lector, my mother a singer with religious values.

They both moved to New York City when young and experienced a time when maintaining their dignity, culture and significance was important them. Thought New York was a major influence to Flores, she eventu-ally left to begin a new life in Rhode Island. It hadn’t been a part of the plan, but the risk paid off by open-ing up new opportunities for her, and perhaps lead her toward being the success she is today.

TS: What brought you to RI?RF: What brought me to Rhode Island is my daugh-ters grandparents on her fathers’ side, this was their first grandchild and they thought that New York City was dangerous and living here would be a better life for her. I took a risk, a good risk and moved to

Rhode Island in 1990 when my daughter was about 8mths old.

TS: Where have you worked in the past, and what made you decide to become independent?RF: In the past, my career was in banking, and own and operated a co-op art gallery in Onset, Massachu-setts with my then Tutor Matt Barros and another artist George Remington, two great important men in my life when I moved to Rhode Island, I used to called them my uncles. In 2008, my life and my sons life took a turn after tragically losing my 18 year old daughter Natasha Love Gonsalves through teen violence. I decided to forge ahead with my passion and my mission to inspire and empower my audience by helping them realize their faith, vision, and energy to believe.In 2010, I left my banking profession and decided I wanted to make a difference in the lives of women and our youth. To accomplish this goal, I took my natural talents and decided to give back, by utilizing my art and poetry as a vehicle to educate and improve aware-ness of the health challenges facing society.

TS: Did you have any fears when you started out, and what was your biggest fear?RF: My biggest fear, I did not want to lose sight of my memories; what I touched, breathed and my experi-ences are the key elements that make up who I am as an artist.


Phot

os: T

risha

Kel

ley

TS: We all have different paths we could have taken. What would your alter-ego be doing, if not art?RF: Although I consider myself an artist first, my alter-ego would definitely be traveling the world and writing poetry of my most precious secret of life’s les-sons that have taken place through my everyday con-nections from youth, family, friends and relationships in an all-embracing fashion.

Through years of honing her natural talent and de-veloping her artistic voice, Flores has created her own unique way of sharing her soul on a canvas, and the process is as telling of her inner beauty as the work.

TS: Which form of expression do you believe to be more effective and cathartic?RF: It all depends on the process, I believe abstract expression because that is my focus and it has helped me. It is effective and therapeutic because of its cre-ative process in using imagination, shape and color that helps put together thoughts and feelings that may not be easy to express otherwise.

TS: What is the mental or emotional process of creat-ing your art?RF: The mental or emotional process of creating my work is based on personal experiences with the accent of unlimited visuals in a surrealistic manner using palette and impasto style techniques and touches representing reminiscing days, and accentuating figu-rative abstract shapes of body movements that sur-rounded episodes of my life.

TS: What is your creative process like? RF: Is a creative therapeutic process of art making I create to enrich and encourage the social, physical, emotional, and psychological understanding of all generations. The technique used is not necessarily with brushes but, with instruments and things from nature I find in the back yard, house and with my fingers to identify figures and forms of illustrated feel-ings.

TS: What is your goal when creating a piece? RF: The intent of my art is to make a personal connec-tion with the observer through the act of involving the viewer in an actual experience and understanding of my symbolic life by generating a unique relationship as they observe and penetrate a pictorial experience of my representation with is sensitivity in the area of mental health in our society, community and culture, which is a delicate subject in my life and not just as an artist but the life of others.

Flores has become a source of inspiration for many people through her lectures. The people she has touched have become a source of strength for her, and she wishes to be a source of strength for them in return. To do so, Flores has coined her own term to share the idea of self-believe and finding worth.

Above: Poetic Earth, Surface of Land Below: Nature, Nurture, Hope


TS: Tell me about “Serlieve.” Why did you decide to create your own word, and what does it say that no existing word could express?RF: I came to a decision one day after seeing how my audience was emotional during one of my inspiration-al lectures coupled with my art exhibition. I noticed that these wonderful people lacked believing in them-selves. That is when I made the decision to originate a word that would describe my unique style of art technique combining my world of experiences in my interpretation in writing, along with all the things I do to inspire everyone, my son, including myself. I took the word believe and created the word SerLieve by uniting the Spanish word for be “Ser”, along with the English suffix for willing “lieve”. In my world of inspiration, SerLieve means to be willing to exist with confidence, have faith, trust and accept your experi-ences meant for discovering yourselves.

TS: What are you most proud of?RF: I am most proud of my son Joshua, that although he is now a teenager he is learning the art of life, he has proven to himself and others that life is based on strength. He tries to make sure he does not dis-appointment and that I am happy. He wants me to do the things that keep me strong happy, which is painting and writing and wants me get my Masters in Art therapy. I know that as long as I continue being strong minded and taking care of myself mentally, emotionally, physically, socially and spiritually, I can continue inspiring and empowering others with my art, more so my son. As an all around artist, my enjoyment are my family, people, places and things created for us to enjoy with-out taking from others for my success. After losing one of my most precious gifts, I decided to live and breathe what lives around me which includes my son Joshua Elijah Amado. Living with balance, peace and doing the things I like best-inspiring and empower-ing my audience, women and youth by helping them realize their faith, vision and energy to believe is my calling.

Flores has worked hard to earn her success, but she is still grateful and humbled by those that appreciate her creations. Because of this, she is willing to share her wisdom with those who wish to bring beauty to the world like herself.


TS: What has been your biggest surprise, thus far?RF: My biggest surprise is how I continue to find time to pray and reach for God to help and guide me so I can continue to paint and write. Because my strengths always stems from how I handle and cope with life lessons. These lessons have enabled me to teach, and when I teach I learn twice.

TS: If you knew then what you know now, what would you have done differently? RF: I would have acquired a part time job in the arts(etc, museum, gallery) then learn about its de-mands firsthand while pursuing my education.

TS: What advice would you give someone who is interested in following in your footsteps?RF: The advice I would give someone interested in following my footsteps, would be; follow your dream, educate yourself by learning all you can, analyze and listen to your instinct, stay focus and Do Not Let any-thing get in your way. Above all have fun and dream big!

TS: Where do you see yourself 5-10 years from now?RF: I am a big dreamer, and usually make my dreams come true, In five years, I see myself residing in another place where I can continue painting, writing, mediating, owner of my own museum that with all my collection of works where people from all over the world and visit, an international celebrated artist and have written 10 books written.

TS: What can readers look forward to from you?RF: That I will continue craving, and reinventing my-self to build an essence of for my future and the future for our children while growing The Natasha Love Foundation in honor of my daughter that provides donations to our young girls pursuing their dream in the arts, inspiring and empowering women through my art.While many let hardships in life conquer them, Re-becca Flores has turned hers into a billboard for social action and a source of inspiration to those who need it. Her heart is as beautiful as her colorful, intimate art, and she brings a special vision to the Rhode Is-land art scene that we admire and appreciate.

“Our ability to enjoy life is the capacity to bounce back from adversity.

We the people experience a range of emotions.

The exercise of mindfulness meditation-

We must be flexible, express our feelings.

We must learn to cultivate the gift to enjoy the present, forget the past, plan for the future-All, all must learn to deal with

loss, deal with death its part of life.

We need to recognize our tal-ents, feel secure-

We cannot let misery be the un-happiness of the present by wor-

rying about the future-Enjoying the passing of time is the essential secret of life, and

results in greater mental health!”


FROM THE INSIDE OUT

Cha–Cha–Cha Chia: NOT Just a Homegrown Pet

By Nichole Rich

ou’ve seen that commercial with the catchy tune that sticks in your head. If you’re like me you can’t help walking by one in the store without singing it. Did you know that the Y

cute little chia pet sitting on your windowsill contains a plethora of goodness for your health?


The chia herb comes from the desert plant Salvia hispanica, which is found in Mexico and means “strength”. Once you read about all of the health ben-efits, you will see why it is the perfect name for this powerful little herb. Filled with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and calcium it packs a powerful punch when included in your daily meals. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of incorporating the chia herb into your menu.

Improve your overall health. Chia is considered the richest source of Omega-3, which is important for heart health and maintaining low levels of choles-terol. Additionally, it contains powerful antioxidants that help prevent free radical damage. Guarding your system against free radical damage that builds up from physical stress, emotional stress or injury can help you maintain a healthy, strong body.

Discover balance. The mild, nutty tasting herb con-tains 11 grams of dietary fiber in just one ounce. Digestive health is supported when adding this source of fiber to your diet. You will also experience balanced blood sugar. Chia contains soluble and insoluble fiber, which combine to slow the body’s conversion of starch into sugar.

Release weight. When people tell me that they want to lose weight, I ask why they want to find it again. If you plan on releasing weight, chia is a great herb to turn to. A healthy weight management program should include carbohydrates, proteins, and good fats. The chia seed contains all of these. As one of the highest sources of plant-based protein, chia contains a balance of vitamins and minerals that include calcium and magnesium. Protein is es-sential to maintain muscle mass when seeking to release weight. Carbohydrates are the fuel that helps to give you the energy you need. Many vegetarians use chia as a regular part of their nutrition program. One ounce of chia yields the following: Protein: 4.4 grams, Carbohydrates: 12 grams, Fat: 9 grams.

“A healthy weight manage-ment program should include carbohydrates, proteins, and

good fats. The chia seed contains all of these.”

Photo: The C

ooking of JoyAnother great thing about chia: it is really easy to add to your meals. Most people choose to sprinkle chia on their food. Add chia to your salad, protein shake, or sprinkle it on your meal. Get creative and cook with chia! When a recipe calls for butter, you can use chia instead. Simply take the measurement for butter and cut it in half. For example, if you need one tbsp of butter, use ½ tbsp of chia instead. Not only will it be healthier, your baked goods will stay fresh longer!



What message does your image send?”

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YEMI SEKONI, editor-in-chief, is the owner and director of Donahue Models & Talent - Rhode Island’s old-est model and talent agency. Her company books some of New England’s top professional models and talent to work with many corporate giants across the region, helping these companies convey critical marketing and ad-vertising messages to their target audiences.With over 35 years of experience in various areas of the acting and modeling industry, including theater, TV, film, print and runway, Yemi also holds a Bachelor of Arts in educa-tion, a post-graduate diploma in marketing and an MBA.

TRADE SECRETS magazine is a culminating outlet for all of her passions – education, performing, marketing and creative writing.

WHO”S WHO

JACLYN PELOPIDA, columnist, graduated from Iona College in 2007 with a Bachelor ofArts in mass communication with a concentration in journalism and a minor in psychology. She was the arts and entertainment editor of her college newspaper, “The Ionian.” Throughout her college career, she was an edito-rial intern for “M Magazine,” a web editorial intern for “Seventeen” magazine, and a public relations intern for MTV Networks. She is in the midst of writing her first novel and currently resides in Cranston, Rhode Island.

LISA SHORR, wardrobe & styling director, says beauty and style is in her DNA. Since childhood, Lisa has immersed herself in the personal care industry, having her Grandma Belle, a successful cosmetics consultant, as her mentor and inspiration. A Cum Laude graduate with a degree in marketing, Lisa learned the art of branding, and as co-owner of PC Troubleshooters, an IT Services Company, she has spent the past 15 years making her business look good. Coupling her expertise in branding with her passion for fashion, she launched Shorr Style in 2012, and as a personal stylist, she works with professional men and women, helping them build their own personal brands. She has an eye for detail and educates each client on the importance of looking your best to achieve success.Her mission: “Inspiring confidence through fashion!” She is excited to be a part of the Trade Secrets team.

TRISHA KELLEY, creative director, graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Design with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in photography. She is a Rhode Island based photographer specializing in product, portraiture and fashion.

VALENCIO, photographic director, chooses to remain an enigma.

https://www.facebook.com/sekoni

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sekoni

https://plus.google.com/+YemiSekoni/posts

http://www.donahuemodels.com/blog/author.cfm/jaclyn-pelopida

mailto:[email protected]

https://www.linkedin.com/pub/jaclyn-pelopida/33/155/54a

https://www.facebook.com/shorrstyle

https://twitter.com/ShorrStyle

https://www.facebook.com/TrishaKelleyPhotography

https://www.linkedin.com/in/trishakelley

http://instagram.com/trishakelleyphotography

http://www.trishakelley.com

http://valenciophoto.com/

http://www.valenciofoto.com/


EMY LACROIX, columnist, is a recent Journalism graduate of Emerson College. As a student, she was happy to cover local news, events, and politics, but fashion and entertainment reporting is her true passion. As a Massachusetts native, she’s found a special fashion niche in the college town of Boston, and loves to write about it.

MELISSA WILSON, hair, has a passion for the beauty industry. With nine years of experience as a professional cosmetologist, Melissa’s experience ranges from working behind the chair of various salons in Rhode Island, to the makeup counter of busy New York City. In November 2011, Melissa opened M.A.W. Beauty Hair & Make-up Studio, where she works with a variety of multicultural clients. Servicing clients throughout New England, Melissa specializes in blowouts, bridal hair and makeup artistry. She stays updated with latest trends and tech-niques in the beauty industry by attending classes, workshops, seminars, and tradeshows.

HAYLEY KLAUDT, makeup, a Florida native, grew up in New England. In high school, she found her love, (more like obsession), for makeup. After graduation, she packed up and headed to Boston, where she has re-sided for the past five years.No stranger to the cosmetic industry, she has trained with brands such as Lancôme, Laura Mercier, Too Faced and MAC Cosmetics. She has worked on location at many editorial photoshoots and worked recently on the makeup team for StyleWeek Northeast in Providence, Rhode Island. Now officially a model with Donahue Models, she is a girl of many talents and a force to reckon with!

OLGA HAWWA, columnist, is licensed esthetician, and makeup artist offering facials, face/body waxing, eye-brow design, makeup artistry, and body treatments for women and men. She is located at 1227 Main Street, West Warwick. Hours are by appointment, 401-353-4656.

NICHOLE RICH, columnist, Ph.D., RYT200, is a Certified Personal Trainer and Sports Nutrition Specialist. As a Fitness and Wellness Coach, she owns and operates Breathing Room, where she provides nutrition coach-ing and training for individuals. Additionally, she is a National Speaker for Summit Education and Li’l Dragons Karate Program Director at State of the Arts Karate and Wellness Center. [email protected]

Phone: 508-243-2368

https://twitter.com/@emy_lacroix

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https://www.facebook.com/mawbeautystudio

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GUESTS

Dahlia Neeman is majoring in Television, Radio and Film at Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Public Communications. She has previously interned for “The Rhode Show”, “Punched In The Head Productions”, and Donahue Models and Talent. Growing up in Rhode Island, Dahlia always had a passion for writing and is cur-rently focusing her studies on screenwriting. Her motto is: “Today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.”

Melinie Lee is a designer and co-owner of Zarusa - a line of luxury handbags handcrafted in South Africa. She has over 13 years of experience in various areas including hair and make up, as well as jewelry and handbag de-sign. A true artist at heart, she loves what she does.




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“Work like you don't need the money. Love like you've never been hurt. Dance like nobody's watching.”

– Satchel Paige

trade secrets nov 2014

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