Pierce Mattie Public Relations New York & Los Angeles

Our Blog Has Moved To A New Address

2008-02-20T18:47:01Z

Please be sure to visit the NEW Pierce Mattie Public Relations blog on its new URL, just add the word "public relations" after Pierce Mattie and omit the word blogs: www.piercemattiepublicrelations.com Other Pierce Mattie PR Division Blog Locations: Beauty Pro A professional beauty and cosmetics industry blog. The Fashion Rag Fashion, design and style blog co-written by Jason Jobson and Shannon Nelson. The Jewelry PR Division Jewelry, precious metal and accessory industry blog. The Fitness PR Division Our sports fitness, health and club industry blog. The Industry Dirt Blog Media Industry Blog. See you there!

How Will the Public Relations Industry Fare in a Recession?

2008-01-23T03:22:38Z

If you are anything like me, our roller coaster economy is really on your mind right now. For we all know, when things begin to go downhill, the domino effect comes into play--consumers cut back on spending...brands start making difficult choices-- cut the budget for advertising or cut the budget for PR. For those of us in the luxury PR market there is concern as luxury sales dropped 6.5% in 2007. With all media outlets crying, “Recession!” what does that mean for the fate of PR? In the last few weeks I’ve had this discussion over and over and assuming I would hear fears that PR will face major cut backs, I instead heard the opposite—brands will need us now more than ever. Advertising alone won’t prompt a consumer to purchase a product; it will be through relationships developed with the consumer through online communities, social media, viral PR and trusted editors that will encourage brand awareness and perceived value. There’s no argument that consumers are becoming savvier to the spin of an advertisement. While it may foster interest in a given product, it further purports inquires about it through friends (word of mouth) and heading online to find reviews/opinions about said product. This is where our relationship with the public comes into play. I do think brands will be more reserved in choosing a PR firm, maybe instead opting for a lesser known firm with lower fees than the more experienced powerhouses that typically charge more. We’ll see more shopping around than we have before, prompting us all to become more creative with our abilities. It’ll be interesting and nail biting, but I suspect-- we will survive. How do you think public relations will fare in a recession?

Pierce Mattie PR Names the Top 20 Hottest Publications To Watch In 2008

2008-01-18T02:55:02Z

Pierce Mattie Public Relations has comprised a list of the hottest magazines ranging from industry leaders, quickly emerging stand outs, as well as publications that will be launching in 2008.

1. Vogue: Not having Vogue on the list would be a crime. Under Anna Wintour’s guidance, Vogue continues to remain a publication with an old fashioned sense of sophistication that is still able to capture women’s attention and create buzz among it’s demographic.

2. Esquire: Not only can Esquire boast a circulation bordering on the 1 million mark, but their website is ranked #2 by MinOnline.com for achieving the highest page views (4,417,927) and unique visitor count gains for a magazine brand in 2007.

3. Domino: With home magazines on the rise, Domino is emerging as a stand out publication. Under the helm of Editor in Chief Deborah Needleman, Domino has found success in relating to readers who are just as savvy about the style of their home as they are to the fashion that they wear.

4. Brides: Bridal magazine titles have increased 96% since 2002 and Brides magazine still has remained a powerhouse with the highest circulation, leading the way among their competitors.

5. Cookie: Parents who aren’t looking to compromise on style and aesthetics have found the perfect outlet in Cookie. Increasingly popular among fashionista’s who have graduated on to motherhood, Cookie’s focus on style, beauty and home décor has resonated with a sophisticated audience.

6. Real Simple: Time is a luxury and Real Simple has struck a chord with female readers looking to simplify their hectic lives. In this fast paced society, this easy to read publication continues to surge in popularity bordering on a circulation just shy of 2 million.

7. W: The fashion bible of the industry has been and will always be a must-read magazine. Those in the know are readers of W.

8. Genlux: Regional magazines are among the fastest growing in the publishing industry; in fact they were king in 2007 as the largest magazine category while Luxury magazines had the second highest launch rate in 2007. Genlux is the best of both worlds as a Los Angeles luxury-driven magazine; it’s the one magazine that has both editors and consumers raving.

9. Conde Nast Portfolio: This business publication for the influential executive trendsetters already has a circulation of 350,000 and it’s only been on newsstands less than 12 months. The business community is applauding Editor in Chief, Joanne Lipman, for this must-read that is sure to continue being hot in 2008.

10. Nylon: Nylon is the thinking fashionista’s style magazine. Consumers respond to Nylon’s smart writing and substance-based editorial.

]]> 11. Lucky: Despite an impending recession, women love to shop. Lucky brings the best style to the consumer from all price points, who right now, are all about knowing their options.

12. O, The Oprah Magazine: This goes without saying, whatever Oprah touches turns to gold. With a circulation of roughly 2.5 million, O magazine remains hot with no signs of burning out.

13. Garden & Gun: Amazingly the Evening Post Publishing Co. found a way to mix sporting life and southern landscapes as if it were completely natural. Being southern never looked so good.

14. Martha Stewart Living: Covering a broad spectrum of topics, Martha Stewart Living defines the home décor category. To date, Omnimedia’s hit publication is unparalleled in circulation (just over 2 million) and website traffic.

15. ZooZoom: As digital publications are becoming more prevalent, ZooZoom’s cinematic editorials are catching the eyes of those who view fashion as art. Visually appealing for the fashion intellectual, ZooZoom distinguishes itself from other digital magazines as the original online glossy.

16. Organic Spa: Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief, Mary Bemis has created a quite fervor among spa lifestyle enthusiasts. Just launched in January of 2007, Organic Spa has found its way onto the shelves of Whole Foods reaching a circulation of over 40,000 of those looking for the true meaning of Spa.

17. New York Look: Just launched at the end of November by New York Magazine, consider New York Look your supplement to Fashion Week. The imagery is mesmerizing with an insider’s view backstage, front row and even atop the runway.

18. IQONS: Following the success of the fashion industry’s answer to social networking, IQONS.com is launching its namesake magazine internationally in February during New York Fashion Week. Iconic fashion designer, Diane Pernet, will be Editor-in-Chief and with contributions from the IQONS community, the magazine is sure to be a success.

19. On Makeup Magazine: The February 2008 launch of On Makeup Magazine from The Powder Group is sure to catch the eye of makeup artists (both current and aspiring) as well as consumers with a love for the cosmetics industry. Positioned as distinctively pro-driven and consumer-friendly, we’re sure this quarterly publication will have readers rioting for it to be published monthly.

20. Latina: Ethnic magazine titles rose by 52% in 2007 and Latina, since 2003, has become one of the top ten fastest growing magazines in America. Its growth continues to surge and doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.

Suzanne Somers: A Branding Success Story

2008-01-12T03:38:31Z

I find it quite interesting that the bubbly blonde Chrissy from Three’s Company has blossomed into this uber brand we call Suzanne Somers. Suzanne is a branding success story that I find amazing and inspiring. Not to be pigeon holed as a dumb blonde, Somers intelligence, ambition, hard work and determination have made her a force to be reckoned with—and when Hollywood tried to put her down, she showed them what makes someone a great leader is overcoming obstacles and learning from your mistakes.

Suzanne Somers’ entrepreneurial spirit has lead her to author several books including several diet and self help books, as well as fashion, jewelry, beauty, diet and exercise products. Never one to let an opportunity pass her by, she has also further branched out into direct sales with “Suzanne,” where consultants can hold parties to earn money while selling Suzanne’s products.

Despite rib poking around the Thigh Master when it first came out, Suzanne is the person who comes to mind when you think back to when infomercials began. That Thigh Master, by the way, continues to be one of the best selling products for Somers. Launching her into the health and fitness industry, Somers has also found success with Somersize (which I hear has some very tasty desserts!)

Honestly, I’m pretty sure I could go on and on about all of the fabulous lines of products that are part of the Suzanne Somers empire. You’ve got to admit, Suzanne Somers is a pretty impressive brand that really doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.

What’s your take? Is Suzanne Somers a branding genius (or did she just have a really great publicist)?

Pierce Mattie Public Relations 2008 New Year's Resolutions for the PR Professional

2008-01-08T03:10:29Z

While it is true that many New Year's resolutions fall by the wayside come February, make a firm commitment to your success this year by writing a list of resolutions that you will in turn transform into long term goals. In an effort to avoid grandiose and often elusive resolutions, we here at Pierce Mattie PR have compiled a top 10 list of public relations resolutions that will effectively help you stay focused on the bigger picture without sabotaging your drive to succeed should you meet with any obstacles along the way.

Desire is the key to motivation, but it's the determination and commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal -- a commitment to excellence -- that will enable you to attain the success you seek." Mario Andretti

1. I will no longer send out press releases. Instead I will send out "news" releases and do so at least once a week. 2. I will commit to take the time to personalize my pitches with several different versions of the news releases to the niche media I am sending it to. 3. I will make a habit out of not pitching to bloggers, but will converse with them instead. 4. I will develop PR campaigns that tell a story with an innovative and/or compelling angle. 5. I will utilize social networking and the blogosphere with transparency, not as just another venue for press. 6. I will commit to being an active listener to my client, to the consumer, and throughout web 2.0. Listening leads to questions, questions lead to conversations, conversations develop relationships. 7. I will commit to making 20 phone calls per day. 8. I will commit to setting micro-goals that are achievable on a weekly basis so that I don't sabotage my motivation to succeed. 9. I will focus on quality exposure for my client instead of quantity. 10. I will invest time to research and educate myself on Web 2.0 and all of its additional folksonomies so that disjointed media is no longer an obstacle to my success. What are your PR resolutions for 2008?

Pierce Mattie Public Relations Appointed By LA Boxing To Launch Their Fitness Public Relations Campaign

2007-12-29T03:19:38Z

PRESS ROOM: Los Angeles California, December 28, 2007: LA Boxing, a new concept in the health and fitness industry, has appointed Pierce Mattie Public Relations to spearhead their fitness public relations campaign throughout 2008. Pierce Mattie Public Relations, known for its innovative communication methods and trailblazing campaigns, will begin the campaign this month assisting LA Boxing to gain more exposure for their 94 franchise locations across the country, as well as their upcoming fashion apparel line that will launch in 2008. LA Boxing, which opened its doors in 2002 with a unique fitness approach to personal fitness, offers high intensity, full body workouts featuring classes in boxing, kickboxing and mixed martial arts. These classes, known for their 1000 calorie-burn, are led by instructors who have a passion for their sport and are the top in their field. LA Boxing caters to both males and females ages 25-45 years old offering the same workout to both sexes, as well as a Diet Club that is free to its members. LA Boxing sells USA Boxing-approved equipment and features gloves by Main Event. They are also the official sponsor of the International Fight League (IFL), the world’s first team-based professional mixed martial arts league.

We felt Pierce Mattie PR’s state-of-the-art media tools and innovative strategies, as well as their proven track record of success, were just what we were looking for to develop brand awareness for LA Boxing, making them an easy choice,” said Anthony Geisler, President of LA Boxing.

To learn more about LA Boxing visit or call toll free 1-866-LABOXING. To find out what Pierce Mattie Public Relations can do for your brand, learn more about us at www.piercemattie.com or by calling 323-469-5500.

Pierce Mattie Public Relations Awards Maryam Zarkesh as 2007 Publicist of the Year

2007-12-28T03:06:51Z

Pierce Mattie PR’s annual Publicist of the Year Award was recently held to recognize the senior publicist whose efforts stood out in 2007. Nominations were made internally by the Pierce Mattie team and by the firm’s clients then sent to an outside judging company who tallied the votes from the media. Publicists were notified of their award the night of the ceremony. The criteria were based on the publicist(s) who had demonstrated the following: Advocacy: Best guidance while on desk-sides or media tours. Tenacity: Editors were able to call in the last hour & get a quote for a story. Creativity: Most original pitch and press copy. Resourcefulness: Able to put an entire broadcast segment together for editors & the media with their client portfolio. Respect: Always follows up without being aggressive. Maryam Zarkesh, Brand Director in the Los Angeles office, took home the award for Publicist of the Year with 26% of the votes. Maryam has worked on fashion and beauty brands such as Old Navy, GlyDerm, STAGR, Solidea, and ReVive Skin Care. Her clients are often seen in Allure Magazine, Glamour Magazine, and US Weekly to name a few. Zarkesh was awarded a six day and five night trip for two to Paris with full accommodations paid by Pierce Mattie Public Relations, Inc. The Runner's up received cash prizes from American Express and Neiman Marcus.]]> Other winners included: Platinum Service Award Lawrence Shorter Best Client Relations Kim Tobman, Total Beauty Best Media Event of the Year Ivy Cartagena for Zotos Best Print Media Placement of the Year Jenelle Forin for Joico Best Broadcast Placement of the Year Erin Haggerty for Old Navy Most Original PR Campaign Lance Buckley for Kiss My Face All of the nominees can be viewed at www.publicistoftheyearaward.com

eVelvetRope: An Exclusive Online Community

2007-12-14T03:03:50Z

Online communities have become a major part in everyone’s lives. It is a growing trend that has become increasingly important for both young and old to have a place to communicate, network and share a piece of their personal lives. Among these online sites, social networks with a door policy have made their mark among those seeking a higher quality way of life. Building and exclusive network requires all the right connections and eVelvetRope has emerged as the pioneer in the luxury lifestyle category of social networking. eVelvetRope provides an opportunity to reach a very specific demographic. It is an ideal vehicle for the targeted campaigns of lifestyle brands and services. This social network offers unique and highly effective promotional tools that enable event professionals to connect with their preferred audience. eVelvetRope members include entrepreneurs, world travelers, restaurateurs, leaders in online media, fashion, entertainment, medicine and many other professions. eVelvetRope is an exclusive community of individuals with an affinity for cuisine, nightlife and leisure. By profiling members’ dining and nightlife preferences, eVelvetRope makes it easy to share recommendations of fellow members. eVelvetRope unites restaurateurs with foodies and wine lovers, fashionistas with designers, club owners with club goers and helps socialites keep up with each other’s social plans. ]]> Founders Michael James and Trevor Hewitt created eVelvetRope.com to provide a platform for members to seek and connect with like-minded individuals and build a social community among professionals and trendsetters. Michael’s diverse background ranging from technology, entertainment and business and Trevor’s experience as CEO of Mixed Elements; gave eVelvetRope that extra flair that certain people were hungry for. eVelvetRope further provides a platform for leisure destination and lifestyle brands to gain direct access to influencers and social trendsetters within the confines of an exclusive and trusted community. The benefits offered by eVelvetRope are unsurpassesed by any other online network. Members and brands will benefit with direct access to high quality events, bars, lounges and night clubs. They will also have relevant reviews of restaurants and venues by their own social peers. In addition, members will get privileges offered by member owned business services and get past the velvet ropes at events through exclusive VIP guest lists. eVelvetRope makes the “Good Life” accessible to those who endeavor to live it.

Pierce Mattie Public Relations Promotes Kim Tobman To Account Director

2007-12-13T03:01:13Z

PRESS ROOM Los Angeles, California December 12, 2007: Pierce Mattie Public Relations is pleased to announce that it has promoted Kim Tobman from Senior Account Executive to Account Director. Kim will now oversee clients who want to focus on larger public relations strategies and events. This promotion comes as a result of a long standing track record of success for securing top tier press for such clients as Old Navy, GUESS handbags and ReVive Skin Care. Kim’s strong commitment to the success of the brand’s she oversees has been a proven formula for achieving greater brand awareness and improving brand value. For more information on what Pierce Mattie PR’s talented and creative team of Account Executives can do for your company, visit www.PierceMattie.com or call 212-243-1431.

Pierce Mattie Public Relations Interviews Celebrity Hair Stylist, Syd Curry

2007-12-05T02:57:49Z

Syd Curry is an amazingly talented hair stylist. Syd's career in the beauty industry has spanned 3 decades working on celebrities such as Debbie Harry, Ashley Judd, Madonna, Charlize Theron, Mariah Carey and Cindy Crawford. His trademark hair styles have graced celebrities at iconic events like The Academy Awards, The Emmy’s and The Grammy’s while his work has been published in every major magazine domestically and abroad. He was the creative behind the "black bob" wig for the model featured in George Michael’s video “Father Figure” and at present you can see his craftsmanship on Nicolette Sheridan as she graces the cover of Prestige Magazine. Syd Curry is talented, creative, innovative, but most of all...inspiring. Speaking publicly for the first time, Syd Curry granted me access into his rise to the top, hitting rock bottom and how determination can never keep a good man down. Shannon: When did you first realize that you had a talent for styling hair? Syd Curry: At a very young age, it was just something I could always do. I started beauty school at 16 in Simi Valley, California. I was the only boy in school at the time and I took a lot of flack for it, but I was a good stylist and the boys who gave me the hardest time stopped when their mothers and sisters started coming to me. Shannon: Did you ever think that it would take you all over the world? Syd: No never. Who thinks that someday you’ll be going all over the world because you have a talent for doing hair? I had traveled all over the United States but when I worked for Mariah Carey I was lucky enough to travel all over Europe and to Japan. Billy B who was her make up artist at the time introduced us so it was amazing getting to see the world with my best friend. Ask him about the earthquake in Japan someday! Shannon: How were you discovered? Syd: My friend Ricky Castro needed hair done for a story in LA Weekly—we were shooting in a graveyard and old theater and his agent came by and asked me to call her. My first print work was with Matthew Rolston and one of my first videos was for Buster Pointdexter in Las Vegas—this is where I met Billy B. Shannon: What do you feel are the two most important products when styling hair? Syd: Of course products are always important, a good hairspray and something to “set” the hair, but for me having the right tools are key. Irons, hot rollers good brushes and a tail comb. I’m old school and almost every thing I do comes out of the “sets” I learned in Beauty School, even if its beach hair I start out pin curling the hair. Of course I can do a straight, flat look, but what fun is that? But getting back to your question, if it works for me I use it. I don’t care if it cost fifty cents or fifty dollars.]]> Shannon: Who was the very first celebrity that you styled hair for and what was running through your mind while you were doing it? Syd: Well for me it was the models I worked when I was first getting started. I was really lucky to have worked with women like Jerry Hall, Janice Dickenson, Gia and Beverly Johnson in the first few years of my career then later I started to work with actors and singers. I was blown away, scared and excited all at once. I’ve been lucky enough to work with some of the most beautiful amazing women in the world, Madonna, Faye Dunaway, Catherine Zeta Jones, Charlize Theron, but it was working with Cindy Crawford that had the biggest impact on my career. I started working with Cindy when she was hosting MTV’s House of Style and there was no bigger model in the world at the time. Just being associated with her took my career to another level, but more than that I really love Cindy, she was very good to me and I will always consider her a friend. And then there’s President Bill Clinton. Shannon: Oh? How did you come in contact with Bill Clinton and what was it like to do hair for the leader of the free world? Syd: At the time when I was doing Cindy Crawford’s hair MTV was also doing Choose or Lose and Bill Clinton was going to be on it. I was working at Nordstrom’s at the time and I’ll never forget being called to the phone and told it was the FBI. It was a little nerve wracking, but they were just doing a security clearance. Bill Clinton is an amazing, charismatic person. Although we were in a room with a million people telling him everything he needed to remember for the show, he kept his focus on you, making you feel the center of attention. Shannon: Let’s talk a little about your battle with addiction, when did it all begin? Syd: I started taking heroin when I was 23. I started taking pills when I was 14 and things just progressed from there to Methadone. My biggest problem was that drugs never scared me so when I had my first chance to do heroin, I didn’t give it a second thought. The sad thing is I had no idea how that first time would change my life over the next thirty years. Shannon: How were you able to “hold it together” amassing celebrity clientele while being an addict? Syd: For most of my career, I didn’t use at work. I would be lying if I said I never got high on or before a job, but the reason I could function so well is because I was on Methadone as well as heroin. Methadone is used to block opiate withdrawal so it allowed me to work and not have to worry about being sick. Methadone is just as addictive as heroin and it’s much much harder to kick. I had been going to a clinic at the time where they give you Methadone for kicking your heroin habit, but I abused it. I was late a lot coming to work because sometimes a shoot would start before the clinic opened and I absolutely had to go to the clinic. No one noticed for years. Things didn’t really start to fall apart until 1998. I was nodding off at work, repeatedly showing up late and that’s the year I got arrested for possession of heroin. After that, everything went downhill and things got out of control pretty fast. Shannon: When did you realize that you needed help? Syd: I was doing a shoot for Nordstrom that I thought was a 5 day job that ended up being 6. I had only packed enough methadone for 5 days, so on day 6 I ran out and never showed up to the shoot. I always knew I needed help it just took me a very long time to want help. Shannon: Once becoming clean, did you find it easy or difficult to transition back into hair styling? Syd: First just let me say that starting a freelance career again was something I never let myself think about. I walked away from everything in 2000 and I spent the past few years in a very dark place. When I finally went into treatment I had my mom contact Billy B., who about a year earlier, had paid an online company to find me. The last time we had seen each other was in 2000 sitting in his driveway crying about how out of control my life had become. I left him that day promising to call the next day and he never heard from me again, six years later he found my mom’s number and called her so he could find out if I was dead or alive. He was the first person I had come visit me in detox and we stayed in touch throughout the whole six months. When I got home he always let me know that if I was ever ready to start back to work to let him know. After being home for about 3 months he got me on a job for MAC doing a master class. I probably slept only an hour the night before and got there about an hour before him because I was so nervous. I was shy at first, but then as soon as I started to work, I was fine. It took a little while during the class to find my comfort zone and realize that I still had talent and that this was something I was good at and loved. Then, after MAC, Billy introduced me to Patricia Field who we did for the Academy Awards. Billy and I have been friends and worked together for over twenty years and I really do have to credit him with helping me to realize I could do this again. Besides all that, he is my best friend and I don’t know what I’d do without him. Shannon: Were you welcomed back by the beauty and fashion industry with open arms? Syd: It has been pretty amazing everyone has been completely supportive. The best thing that has happened for me on a personal level is that the person who represented me for a long time has started to rep me again. Patti Kassover was my agent for a long time before and during the bad times. One of the best things she ever did for me as an agent and a friend was to stop sending me out on jobs before I completely destroyed my career. Patti and everyone at Solo Artists have been great and the best part is they know the whole story and they realize that its going to take me a minute to get back into the swing of things. As far as clients go, I can honestly say that I’ve had nothing but great feedback. People are usually kind of blown away by the amount of time I used and that I’m still alive and healthy and its good for me to hear their reactions because it only helps make me realize how huge this all is. At first I was hesitant to talk about my addiction, but everyone’s reaction has been overwhelming and talking about it has helped in my recovery. Shannon: Describe Syd Curry the Hair Stylist now and Syd Curry the Hair Stylist 10 years ago. Syd: That’s easy, 10 years ago I took everything I had for granted and lost it all. I hope I will never make that mistake again. Like I said before just the fact of having this chance to start over again is beyond amazing to me. You can learn more about Syd Curry by visiting him online via his MySpace profile or see a sampling of his portfolio at Solo Artists. Has Syd inspired you? Be sure to let him know by posting a comment.

Pierce Mattie Public Relations Interviews Fashion Photographer Piper Carter

2007-12-02T02:50:54Z

Piper Carter has worked as a freelance assistant for many of the top photographers in the world, and as a studio assistant at three of the top studios in the world: Pier 59, Industria, and Splashlight Studios in New York City. For three years she was assistant to maverick photographer Steven Klein working with him on some of the most famous projects of his career, including the ones featuring Brad Pitt and another with Madonna. She also assisted David Seidner on his last two projects before he passed away, including a series of famous portraits of Naomi Campbell and Leontine Price. She graduated from FIT in May 2007 with a BFA in Photography & Digital Media. She completed her internship at Vogue Magazine in the Photography Dept. assisting the photo research team with editorial content for the magazine and the Poiret exhibition featured this past summer at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the Costume Institute. Recently, Piper was on VH1's "The Shot," a fashion photography reality series and I took the opportunity to find out more about her. Shannon: When was the very first time you picked up a camera, shot something and realized you had a knack for photography? Piper Carter: I first picked up a camera (Canon AE-1) in 1992. I was attending Howard University at the time & had changed my major to Photography. I had no previous knowledge of photography & it kind of came to me naturally. I became hooked in the darkroom after I developed my first roll of Kodak 100 t-max, & watched in awe As my contact sheet miraculously appeared! I realized: Wow! I did that? I want to do this for the rest of my life. Shannon: Thinking back to this moment, what was the image that inspired you? Piper: My most inspirational image to date is a mermaid image I made a few years ago. My comrade Lenoid made an amazine denim skirt fashioned after a ball gown with rolls of ruffles. The model is Hollis: a beautiful creature with so much heart and passion. She works the brilliant red wig created by Ursula Stephan, a real artist. And she is slightly silouhetted against a white background. Make up artist Hiyiyatun Muqaribu makes us able to feel her buttery skin, & full lips. It’s a great project I really love. Shannon: Many Fashion Photographers have told me that it is their love for art that guides them in how they capture an image through their lens and bring it to life, is this the same for you as well? Piper: My inspiration comes from many sources: a combination of the French New Wave movement, The German Expressionist movement, the Blaxploitation movement, the Northern Renaissance, Octavia Butler, Shakespeare, & Stanley Kubrick. Shannon: What is your favorite aspect to fashion photography? Piper: My favorite aspects of fashion photography, besides great images, are researching the idea: looking up various resources, and the collaborative spirit of a good team all working together lending their expertise to the creative endeavor. Shannon: Reflecting on the photographers you have worked with, what aspects of their knowledge have you incorporated into creating your own work? Piper: I’ve worked with the best fashion photographers in recent history. One common factor they share is passion. They all are dedicated to making a perfect image & strong project. They all continue testing in their spare time Working on personal projects, trying new ideas, new people, expanding their scope. I follow this module in my life, “Keep shooting.”]]> Shannon: Do you have a favorite photographer among them whose mentoring inspired you the most? Piper: I have three favorite photographers who have mentored me: Steven Klein, from whom I learned everything; David Seidner (r.i.p.), who was so generous with his vision and method; and Nick Ruchel, from whom I learned almost all of my technical knowledge. Shannon: Is there a single characteristic among your photography that is a common thread seen through each image that is signature “Piper Carter”? Piper: I would say my “style” is best described as simple, clean, fresh, strong, & raw. Shannon: Whose idea was it to submit an entry for VH1’s “The Shot”? Piper: I cannot really comment on VH1 behind the scenes stuff just yet, since the show is still running. Shannon: Was it intimidating to be among other great photographers and then also having the cameras focused on you? Piper: Yes, working with other photographers can be uncomfortable. Photography is a solo sport. There is only 1 lens, so There can be only 1 vision. Everyone sees things differently so it’s quite a challenge to come together as a collective. At first I was uncomfortable being filmed, but after a while I got used to it. Sometimes I’d forget, but it was definitely on my mind at other times. Shannon: Many people often say, “There is no reality in reality TV,” have you been watching the show and found that the way things happened are not the way they are being presented on the show? Piper: I wish I could speak on that! Shannon: What is the one thing you have learned about yourself and your photography since being on The Shot? Piper: The one thing I learned about myself is that I am stronger than I thought and that I just see things a lot differently than most others. I realized I am a much better photographer than I thought. Shannon: Can you share with us any upcoming projects you are working on? Piper: I am currently working on an upcoming exhibition for the spring in New York City. You can view a sampling of Piper Carter's work on her website www.pipercarter.com and through her profile on MySpace. If you happen to be on the fashion social networking site, IQONS, Piper has a profile set up there as well.

Pitching To Bloggers Still A Gray Area?

2007-12-01T02:46:17Z

Last week I attended a really great seminar held by the Bulldog Reporter. At first I felt a bit intimidated--a Blogger amidst some pretty well known public relations experts. I even felt like a groupie when I approached my favorite PR professional, Sally Falkow, to introduce myself and thank her for all of the great advice in The Daily Dog. However, I became more at ease as I discovered that as much as I wanted to learn and absorb all I could about public relations, those in public relations wanted to learn and absorb all they could about Bloggers, something I'd say I am an expert on. It was around this time last year that pitching Bloggers was really beginning to take off, so I'd have to say that a year later, I am surprised that many professionals in PR are still unsure and uneasy about approaching Bloggers. I'm sure it has a lot to do with fear of being publicly chastised if they pitch incorrectly or even more, if they make it onto a black list and considered a spammer. At the seminar some wanted to know how to pitch to the Perez Hilton's of the blogosphere, the snarky blogs that tend to garner the highest readership, although their client may not be a fit. I desperately wanted to tell her that it's not about quantity of readership, but quality. A blog with a lower readership that is her client's target market will have much more success when promoting the brand than one with thousands of readers who aren't. It's really that simple. Many PR professionals wanted to know where to find the best bloggers to send their pitches to. Technorati was mentioned a lot, although I disagree. A simple search for "best fashion blogs" or "best beauty blogs" (or whichever the industry) is easy enough and then simply look at their blogrolls, as well. Also, the top rated bloggers are sometimes the ones who consider pitches untargeted spam and will simply click delete. It all comes back to basics:]]> 1. Know your client's target market and find blogs that are reaching out to it. 2. Be sure to read through a Bloggers "About" page to see if they explain how they want to be contacted. 3. Also make sure to read at least the blog's front page to see if the blog is a good fit for your client's product. 4. Be sincere..."I just found your blog and I love it" has been said many times before you wrote it. 5. The K.I.S.S. method also applies to Blogger pitches. 6. As with Editors, relationships with Bloggers take time. 7. Do not pitch in the comments section. 8. Don't be pushy. 9. Expect honesty. 10. Be professional when promoting a client's products; "*Free* products for you" in the subject heading is tacky. So let's get a dialogue going--Bloggers post in the comments about how you want to be pitched and those in PR--feel free to ask me or Bloggers in general your questions on how best to approach them. Related Post Etiquette Protocol For Pitching Products To Bloggers.

Behind The Brand: Boaz David; Music-Inspired Fashion Design

2007-11-27T02:40:23Z

Born and raised in Israel to Iraqi immigrant parents, Boaz David spent most of his youth on the soccer field, or playing in a band with fellow classmates. However, it was his grandfather’s wardrobe and his custom-made suits from the early fifties that had the biggest impact on him that eventually led him into the world of fashion. He started by alternating and redesigning his clothes, making his own pieces by hand, “I could never find the things I liked in the stores, so the easiest way was to just make them myself.” By the time he was seventeen Boaz was selling his designs to friends and family, establishing himself as a local (and most likely the only) teenager couturier. Boaz decided it was time to pursue his childhood passion so he entered the Shenkar Fashion College in Tel-Aviv after serving the requisite three years in the Israeli Army. His final collection before graduation brought him to an international competition in Italy. He returned to Israel invigorated and began his foray into professional fashion work as a designer and stylist for television and theater work. However, eager to learn and grow professionally, Boaz decided to move on and experience the larger world of fashion, so in 1996 Boaz left Europe for New York where he would encounter his greatest inspiration. After gaining valuable experience from fashion companies such as Yigal-Azrouel, Alice & Trixie, and Nili Lotan, Boaz turned the dream of launching his own line into a reality. Since music is one of Boaz’ greatest loves (2nd to design) his spring ’08 collection skillfully fuses these two art forms, the result is an edgy hip women’s contemporary collection. ]]> “She is fashion-forward, edgy and confident, a woman who follows her own path in life and loves to express her own individuality through her clothes.” You can see Boaz' entire collection at www.boaz-ny.com

TheraBreath Appoints Pierce Mattie Public Relations For Its Health Public Relations Campaign

2007-11-20T02:54:07Z

Press Release November 19, 2007: TheraBreath, the industry leader in resolving the issue of halitosis, has retained Pierce Mattie Public Relations to spearhead their health public relations campaign throughout 2008. Pierce Mattie Public Relations, known for its innovative communication methods and trailblazing campaigns, will begin the campaign this month assisting TheraBreath to gain more exposure for their current line of products, as well as their upcoming PerioTherapy products. TheraBreath is a revolutionary premium oral care system created by Doctor Harold Katz at the California Breath Clinics. The exclusive, original formula went on the market in 1994 and has been used by over 1,000,000 people worldwide to solve the problems of bad breath and unpleasant mouth taste. It is the first company of its kind to actually treat the underlying causes of bad breath rather than covering it up. Dr. Katz, a graduate of UCLA, the UCLA School of Dentistry and holder of a separate degree in Bacteriology, is also the author of the “Bad Breath Bible” now in its second edition, with over 1 million copies in print. TheraBreath is an effective all natural, vegan, vegetarian and kosher line of breath care products. TheraBreath began with only 6 products, but now has over 50 products available both online and at select retail stores. “We are looking forward to an exciting year of consumer education with the assistance of national and regional magazines and other media outlets,” notes Kim Tobman, Account Director in Pierce Mattie PR’s LA Office. For more information on TheraBreath visit www.TheraBreath.com or call 1-800-97-FRESH. To find out what Pierce Mattie Public Relations can do for your brand, learn more about us at www.piercemattie.com or by calling 212-243-1431.

Luxury Product Of The Week: The Intoxicating Fragrances Of Sharon Bolton Scents

2007-11-03T02:37:30Z

Intoxicating, indulgent, opulent; all of those things describe the luxurious fragrance line of Sharon Bolton Scents. A Santa Barbara resident, Sharon Bolton captures the essence of grace and femininity along with the lush splendor of Santa Barbara's natural bounty. Discovering Truth, Luv and Soul is similar to experiencing the relaxed yet chic lifestyle the town is known for. Truth: A refreshing, clean citrus. A tangy lemon-lime softened by an exotic floral and an airy, sheer musk...fresh like a warm sea breeze. Luv: An intoxicating, ultimately feminine scent of rare pink gardenia, lush Hawaiian white flowers, and a hint of creamy vanilla with a delicate whisper of white musk. Soul: Sweet tropical notes that will evoke a memory for your soul. Juicy papaya, luscious pineapple, and creamy coconut with undertones of clean musk. I had the opportunity to ask Sharon what her mission was when launching her company: You'll be surprised to hear that we actually don't offer just scents, we offer a luxurious sensory experience and a tropical getaway. Scents evoke such things as to bring us to another place or transport us to another time. I can't tell you how often I hear from customers that one of our scents reminds them of their wedding, or the beach, or a favorite childhood scent...the list goes on and on. I also wanted women to wear the scents, not the scents wear them. Light, clean, fresh is what we strive for. We kept the component of alcohol out of the perfume oils for those with sensitivities, like myself! The luxurious bath and body products offer indulgence in the sensory experience of Sharon Bolton Scents. They are rich and creamy and the shower cream creates loads of bubbles. We chose Soy candles with cotton wicks for the environmental factor. Our products are cruelty free and packaging is 100% recyclable. We truly kept in mind the customer's experience, which we wanted to be a luxurious, indulgent and evocative one. And lastly, we wanted to keep part of our mission to give back to our community and to causes that are important to us. Where does the inspiration for your scents come from? The scents are reminiscent of our breezy seaside town of Santa Barbara as each season presents different floral aromas in the air. Also, Hawaii is a huge inspiration. The air always smells like a burst of Plumeria and the Papayas plucked off the vine smell heavenly! Hawaii was definitely the inspiration behind Soul (think a day at the beach in Maui) and Luv (reminds me of wearing a big, bountiful floral lei) and Truth's inspiration was more Santa Barbara. I'd say having a margarita while the Santa Ana's come whistling through bringing night blooming jasmine alive. And our most recent addition Dream...I just knew I'd want to be wrapped in cashmere in the Santa Barbara winter and that is what this scent reminds me of...it's Dreamy! Throughout my travels and experiences I am always noting the smell of fruit, flowers, soaps, the air, food...you name it! Sharon Bolton's newest scent, Dream, is launching on November 15th only at The Powder Room on Bustleton Avenue in Philadelphia. It can be described as a heady concoction of bergamot, white freesia, mimosa with accords of amber, sandalwood and exotic musk. See all that Sharon Bolton Scents has to offer online at www.sharonboltonscents.com or find a store located near you. I promise you won't be disappointed!