K
x
Friday, November 23, 2012
Girl crush - Jodi Gordon
If someone can make a paper bag look fashionable - it's Jodi Gordon (now Anasta). Everything from her seemingly effortless looks, to her simple and classic fashion sense. Her recent marriage to Braith Anasta in Bali saw her walking down the aisle in the most beautiful J'Aton wedding gown (despite the $50 000 price tag!) Now excuse me while I try to work my butt off to get a body like hers!
K
x
K
x
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
My week with Madison
After watching the Devil Wears Prada when I was sixteen; I thought twice about pursuing a career in magazines. I was very much similar to Anne Hathaway's character Andy at the time - nerdy, young, and naive. However unlike Andy, there was no way I thought I could keep up with a power force such as Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) without tripping over my heels or stuttering every second word. So I guess you could say that I was pretty much s******g myself when I found out I got accepted into work experience with Madison Magazine earlier this year. With the help of my very creative best friend, we designed a magazine style CV which I sent to every major women's magazine in Australia. After a few months of no replies, I was at work when I received an email that went a little bit like this...
'Dear Karla
I'm happy to let you know that you are now booked for work experience at Madison the week of Monday July 16 - Friday July 20........'
After the shock and excitement was over, reality started to kick in. I was facing every magazine wannabe's tragic dilemma...WHAT AM I GOING TO WEAR??? Typical of me; I left it to the day before I was leaving for Sydney to do some last minute shopping with my BFF (fashion guru/style freak/wonder woman) who revamped my wardrobe into a classy city woman. Two days later and I was on my way to The Aussie version of NY...Sydney.
Day One -
Day Four -
Back in the Madison office, I continued the Megan Gale interview. It was so inspiring to hear her take on size 0, and put it out there that she accepts the fact that not all designers have the same size structure in their clothes. It teaches girls that it's okay to be a size 10 in one thing but a size 12 in another. The fact that she is 37 and still modelling also goes to show that there are no limits, as to this day she still has a strong name for herself in the fashion industry. Forty minutes later, and I felt refreshed with her deep and inspiring words. The rest of the afternoon consisted of office duties but like I said, you can still learn a lot. Photocopying and admin work taught me a lot about how the magazine runs; from the minute an idea is made, to when it is printed upon the glossy pages and ready for the reader to bury themselves into.
Day Five (last day) -
The last day was the final chance I had to give it my absolute all - starting with a nice little batch of Macaroons to put on the roundtable. This was definitely a winner. Many staff came up to me to show their appreciation and I had a chance to talk to more people about their career experiences. After this I continued with a new Madison mentor transcript. Whilst transcribing can be exhausting, you can learn a lot from the subjects and absorb some amazing life stories and journeys. However this was nothing compared to what was coming next. The one thing I was hoping for all week was finally about to happen; meeting the beautiful Madison Editor - Lizzie Renkert. I was invited into her office which had the most amazing view of Park Street. I was greeted by the warmest smile and charisma. The next five minutes was definitely a pivotal point which I will remember for the rest of my career. I was able to tell her how much I live and breathe the magazine from its features to its fashion ; she well and truly appreciated this. She commended me on my hard work and said she would love to have me back again. I think by this point I could of screamed like a little girl with excitement, but I needed to keep my composure - it was Lizzie Renkert! She said you have to work hard for it as it doesn't get handed to you. Like Megan Gale; she is just as smart as she is beautiful. The day had almost come to an end. I started to say goodbye to everyone, and I received a card and a little gift which made me even more grateful. I walked out of the building, feeling like a new woman - rejuvenated, career driven and motivated. It was definitely one of the best experiences I will remember for the rest of my life. All I can say is, don't let your fears get in the way of your dreams. You will be surprised what life can throw at you when you have a positive attitude, a little persistence, and a big dream.
Karla
x
'Dear Karla
I'm happy to let you know that you are now booked for work experience at Madison the week of Monday July 16 - Friday July 20........'
After the shock and excitement was over, reality started to kick in. I was facing every magazine wannabe's tragic dilemma...WHAT AM I GOING TO WEAR??? Typical of me; I left it to the day before I was leaving for Sydney to do some last minute shopping with my BFF (fashion guru/style freak/wonder woman) who revamped my wardrobe into a classy city woman. Two days later and I was on my way to The Aussie version of NY...Sydney.
Day One -
I forgot what it was like to catch the busy 8.00am City train.Three to a seat, sweating already, the nerves were kicking in. I arrived at Town Hall and walked down the notable Park Avenue to number 52 – the ACP building. I signed in and sat in the waiting area, double-checking my posture every five seconds in the side mirror so I wouldn't look like the Hunchback of Notre Dame. I also caught Deborah Thomas ordering her morning coffee, by then I was well and truly anxious. I was then greeted by the lovely Editorial Coordinator who took me up to the Madison office. It was beautiful, everything from collages of models on the walls to the big polystyrene letters that spelt 'Madison' across the shelf at the entrance. After being shown around I sat down and did my first transcript for Madison mentors. It was amazing to hear these stories of strong successful business women. Then I started on mail. What most people don't understand is such a small task can make a big difference. Firstly, I learnt that greeting people with a smile and remembering their name is much better than just dumping envelopes on their desk. Secondly, I learnt that the staff doesn't just get 'free stuff', they tirelessly sought through this 'stuff' to find the best products to suit their readers. Thirdly, I learned the importance of being enthusiastic no matter what the task at hand is, as it can leave a lasting impression. This goes to show that you really do never stop learning, and it's important to make the most of it.
Day Two -
10.00am and I handed out mail straightaway. It's important to try and take some initiative if you know what should be done. After this the Editorial Coordinator asked me to do another transcript only this time it was on Nicole Richie! My heart sunk a little on the inside...NICOLE RICHIE!!!! The transcript proved that she is just as beautiful in her nature as well as her looks. Whilst I didn't get to meet her in person, the transcript was damn near close enough! After this I overheard a conversation the feature writers were having about Anna Bligh; who were trying to find out information about her. I knew this was my chance as a Queenslander to pitch in and say something, but the words couldn't come out. C'mon Karla get your s*** together! After five minutes of procrastinating I finally spoke up, and my words were well appreciated. KARLA 1 vs NERVES 0, God I felt good! Soon after I was filing magazine tears. It involved a lot of walking up and down the office, and there was definitely one lesson learnt - BRING FLATS TO WORK! Heels will certainly not get the job don't quickly, unless you're some sought of supermodel that can run a half marathon in pumps. On the bright side I caught a glimpse of the latest issue which was due to release, and the editorial coordinator commented on my speedy efforts. I was surprised of course, maybe I could try running a marathon heels after all!
Day Three -
The first half of the day involved sorting out copies of the latest issue to send to subs. It's crazy to see how many people are part of this VIP list both nationally and worldwide to receive a copy of Madison every month. A highlight of is was being able to talk to an intern; hearing her story of how she got into the industry and what she has learnt thus far. After is I was lucky to have the opportunity to work with the online editor. This was crucial as I wanted to learn more about working on a website and how to make a post because trust me, there's a lot more to it than a blog post. Just when I thought I hit the jackpot with Nicole Richie's transcript, I was asked to do a transcript of the ahhhhmaazziiinnngg Megan Gale. It was a privilege to be able to listen to the story and advice of one of Australia's most sexy and successful business women. I knew forty minutes worth of typing was going to be a long time but it was well and truly worth it. Five 'o clock and it was time to rock and roll in the city with a few of my Sydney girlfriends at one of the most hip bars in town La Bodeguita Del Medio http://www.lbdm.com.au/ $10 Mojitos and the best tapas that will melt in your mouth (my personal favourite is the lamb skewers). Not to mention the suave bar men who sure know how to shake a cocktail shaker! It was indeed a perfect way to celebrate hump day.
Day Two -
10.00am and I handed out mail straightaway. It's important to try and take some initiative if you know what should be done. After this the Editorial Coordinator asked me to do another transcript only this time it was on Nicole Richie! My heart sunk a little on the inside...NICOLE RICHIE!!!! The transcript proved that she is just as beautiful in her nature as well as her looks. Whilst I didn't get to meet her in person, the transcript was damn near close enough! After this I overheard a conversation the feature writers were having about Anna Bligh; who were trying to find out information about her. I knew this was my chance as a Queenslander to pitch in and say something, but the words couldn't come out. C'mon Karla get your s*** together! After five minutes of procrastinating I finally spoke up, and my words were well appreciated. KARLA 1 vs NERVES 0, God I felt good! Soon after I was filing magazine tears. It involved a lot of walking up and down the office, and there was definitely one lesson learnt - BRING FLATS TO WORK! Heels will certainly not get the job don't quickly, unless you're some sought of supermodel that can run a half marathon in pumps. On the bright side I caught a glimpse of the latest issue which was due to release, and the editorial coordinator commented on my speedy efforts. I was surprised of course, maybe I could try running a marathon heels after all!
Day Three -
The first half of the day involved sorting out copies of the latest issue to send to subs. It's crazy to see how many people are part of this VIP list both nationally and worldwide to receive a copy of Madison every month. A highlight of is was being able to talk to an intern; hearing her story of how she got into the industry and what she has learnt thus far. After is I was lucky to have the opportunity to work with the online editor. This was crucial as I wanted to learn more about working on a website and how to make a post because trust me, there's a lot more to it than a blog post. Just when I thought I hit the jackpot with Nicole Richie's transcript, I was asked to do a transcript of the ahhhhmaazziiinnngg Megan Gale. It was a privilege to be able to listen to the story and advice of one of Australia's most sexy and successful business women. I knew forty minutes worth of typing was going to be a long time but it was well and truly worth it. Five 'o clock and it was time to rock and roll in the city with a few of my Sydney girlfriends at one of the most hip bars in town La Bodeguita Del Medio http://www.lbdm.com.au/ $10 Mojitos and the best tapas that will melt in your mouth (my personal favourite is the lamb skewers). Not to mention the suave bar men who sure know how to shake a cocktail shaker! It was indeed a perfect way to celebrate hump day.
Day Four -
Back in the Madison office, I continued the Megan Gale interview. It was so inspiring to hear her take on size 0, and put it out there that she accepts the fact that not all designers have the same size structure in their clothes. It teaches girls that it's okay to be a size 10 in one thing but a size 12 in another. The fact that she is 37 and still modelling also goes to show that there are no limits, as to this day she still has a strong name for herself in the fashion industry. Forty minutes later, and I felt refreshed with her deep and inspiring words. The rest of the afternoon consisted of office duties but like I said, you can still learn a lot. Photocopying and admin work taught me a lot about how the magazine runs; from the minute an idea is made, to when it is printed upon the glossy pages and ready for the reader to bury themselves into.
Day Five (last day) -
The last day was the final chance I had to give it my absolute all - starting with a nice little batch of Macaroons to put on the roundtable. This was definitely a winner. Many staff came up to me to show their appreciation and I had a chance to talk to more people about their career experiences. After this I continued with a new Madison mentor transcript. Whilst transcribing can be exhausting, you can learn a lot from the subjects and absorb some amazing life stories and journeys. However this was nothing compared to what was coming next. The one thing I was hoping for all week was finally about to happen; meeting the beautiful Madison Editor - Lizzie Renkert. I was invited into her office which had the most amazing view of Park Street. I was greeted by the warmest smile and charisma. The next five minutes was definitely a pivotal point which I will remember for the rest of my career. I was able to tell her how much I live and breathe the magazine from its features to its fashion ; she well and truly appreciated this. She commended me on my hard work and said she would love to have me back again. I think by this point I could of screamed like a little girl with excitement, but I needed to keep my composure - it was Lizzie Renkert! She said you have to work hard for it as it doesn't get handed to you. Like Megan Gale; she is just as smart as she is beautiful. The day had almost come to an end. I started to say goodbye to everyone, and I received a card and a little gift which made me even more grateful. I walked out of the building, feeling like a new woman - rejuvenated, career driven and motivated. It was definitely one of the best experiences I will remember for the rest of my life. All I can say is, don't let your fears get in the way of your dreams. You will be surprised what life can throw at you when you have a positive attitude, a little persistence, and a big dream.
Karla
x
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Arty Farty
Art is the most intense mode of individualism that the world has known.
- Oscar Wilde
Sometimes all it takes is a piece of creativity to open our minds to the beauty that the world has to offer. Something that distracts us from the routine things we see everyday. Something that can totally change our perspective on life. Something that can make us find ourslves and lose ourselves all at the same time. On the weekend I went to Currumbin's annual Swell Sculpture Festival and Brisbane's Modern Art Gallery (GOMA). I was amazed by the amount of talent in these inspiring pieces. It's so refreshing to be able to look at things that are so simple yet so intricate, that you rattle all your artistic brain cells to work out what it could possibly mean. This is why I love art so much. It allows us to make our own interpretations without being right or wrong. It allows us to express ourselves freely and without any limitations. It lets our spirits breathe.....
Thursday, September 13, 2012
MIA
About time!
I've been MIA for well over three months now :( however I'm back and ready to rock and roll! So far I've had the privilege of a week's work experience with my one and only - Madison magazine, met the amazing Lizzie Renkert (more on this to come), cheered on my talented boyfriend who took the stage in Your Shot DJ competition for a weekend, went on a crazy girls weekend in Sydney which involved screaming my lungs out to 360 in concert, purchased a brand new Toyota Yaris and exhausted the speakers and odometer, practised my best Karise Eden style voice (great party trick), ate the world's greatest hash brown, watched some of my bestest friends turn twenty one, and most importantly - I took the plunge and moved out with my boyfriend of five years (yikkeeesssss). I feel refreshed now coming back and I want to share with you the motivation that as brought me back - The Treasure Yourself Project by Lori Jai Harding. Based on the inspiring Miranda Kerr book Treasure Yourself, the nature of the project is truly beautiful. Eight weeks of focusing on YOU and taking charge of your happiness and health. I have decided to start and share this project with you all. I'll be documenting my progress in this challenge and how I reach my goals. Feel welcome to check The Treasure Yourself Project Facebook page and give it a go yourself, it might just be the change you need. Furthermore I'll be giving the blog a bit of a revamp, and stealing my boyfriends iPad as much as I can to bring more daily posts :)
Oh and did I say I met Lizzie Renkert? Girl crush just a bit!
Until next time...(which I promise will not be three months)
Karla x
TREASURE YOURSELF PROJECT - http://eighttentenblog.blogspot.com.au/2012/05/treasure-yourself-project.html
I've been MIA for well over three months now :( however I'm back and ready to rock and roll! So far I've had the privilege of a week's work experience with my one and only - Madison magazine, met the amazing Lizzie Renkert (more on this to come), cheered on my talented boyfriend who took the stage in Your Shot DJ competition for a weekend, went on a crazy girls weekend in Sydney which involved screaming my lungs out to 360 in concert, purchased a brand new Toyota Yaris and exhausted the speakers and odometer, practised my best Karise Eden style voice (great party trick), ate the world's greatest hash brown, watched some of my bestest friends turn twenty one, and most importantly - I took the plunge and moved out with my boyfriend of five years (yikkeeesssss). I feel refreshed now coming back and I want to share with you the motivation that as brought me back - The Treasure Yourself Project by Lori Jai Harding. Based on the inspiring Miranda Kerr book Treasure Yourself, the nature of the project is truly beautiful. Eight weeks of focusing on YOU and taking charge of your happiness and health. I have decided to start and share this project with you all. I'll be documenting my progress in this challenge and how I reach my goals. Feel welcome to check The Treasure Yourself Project Facebook page and give it a go yourself, it might just be the change you need. Furthermore I'll be giving the blog a bit of a revamp, and stealing my boyfriends iPad as much as I can to bring more daily posts :)
Oh and did I say I met Lizzie Renkert? Girl crush just a bit!
Until next time...(which I promise will not be three months)
Karla x
TREASURE YOURSELF PROJECT - http://eighttentenblog.blogspot.com.au/2012/05/treasure-yourself-project.html
Thursday, June 21, 2012
a rhyme for my beloved
Love your parents. We are so busy growing up, we often forget they are also growing old.
- Unknown.
Hush little darling so innocent and pure
For there is a world out there, you will one day have to endure.
We can only hold you close to our chests for so long
Until the day we let you go, despite it feeling right or wrong.
Hush little darling, a life of wonder is waiting for which you have not yet done
So spread your graceful wings and you will become at one
There are many mountains for you to climb
All in which you will succeed in rightful time.
Hush little darling, people may let you down
But never let them hurt you, scare you, or force you to drown.
Take each day as it comes and don't think ahead
What matters is the actions you take, and words that are said.
Hush little darling, don't ever punish yourself
For there is love all around you, always here for help
Don't ever feel lost or alone
For your precious heart will always find the home.
Hush little darling don't be afraid
For there are many reasons it is you we made
We have faith in you and your beloved soul
And it is your shining light that makes us feel whole.
Hush little darling you are destined for abundant things
You will aspire and achieve, oh the joy it will bring.
Hush little darling we love you so
Forever and always we will be here, to watch our little girl grow.
- Unknown.
Hush little darling so innocent and pure
For there is a world out there, you will one day have to endure.
We can only hold you close to our chests for so long
Until the day we let you go, despite it feeling right or wrong.
Hush little darling, a life of wonder is waiting for which you have not yet done
So spread your graceful wings and you will become at one
There are many mountains for you to climb
All in which you will succeed in rightful time.
Hush little darling, people may let you down
But never let them hurt you, scare you, or force you to drown.
Take each day as it comes and don't think ahead
What matters is the actions you take, and words that are said.
Hush little darling, don't ever punish yourself
For there is love all around you, always here for help
Don't ever feel lost or alone
For your precious heart will always find the home.
Hush little darling, your broken heart will cry a couple of times
But one day you will experience the kind of love that will last a lifetime
We pray that their soul will entwine with your own
And we hope their fondness of you, will forever be shown.
Hush little darling don't be afraid
For there are many reasons it is you we made
We have faith in you and your beloved soul
And it is your shining light that makes us feel whole.
Hush little darling you are destined for abundant things
You will aspire and achieve, oh the joy it will bring.
Hush little darling we love you so
Forever and always we will be here, to watch our little girl grow.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
blissful beats
"Music can change the world because it can change people.
- Bono
The Gold Coast is full of wonderful and aspiring musicians, but you've got to have a certain knack to leave a group of people speechless. The Lamplights are more than a band; they are a brotherhood, and they pride themselves on sharing their journey with the community, and connecting with people. I was blown away when I saw them play at Mandala Organic Arts Cafe on the weekend. In the spare time before their performance they were interacting with everyone, sharing their experiences, and making people feel like they belonged. What struck me the most was when I caught a glimpse of them outside before their performance. They were together arms in arms, huddled under shelter from the pouring rain. It seemed to me they were sharing a secret ode between them, something that looked powerful beyond measure. Clearly this intensity shared between them resonates to the audience when they are on stage. "Playing an organic blend of folk, funk, roots, and blues", they have a distinctive emotional atmosphere when they play their music. But beyond the beat, its the power of raw words combined with charm which leaves everyone in the room feeling rejuvenated, enlightened, inspired, and moved. You can't fault them. Because its not only what you hear, its the experience. Its how they touch peoples hearts and make them dance in revelry. What's more they don't do it for the money...how do I know this? Because their cd's don't have a sale price, it is asked people make a kind donation because they believe its fair they get back what they give. You can see that they honestly do it because they ultimately want to make people happy, and spread positive energy. I believe it is these qualities that make them so very admirable and genuine. I could not help but write this post to share the love with everyone. Check them out at http://www.thelamplights.com/ or their Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/TheLamplights....however it can't beat seeing their gigs live!
(My personal favourites are 'Wallflower' and 'She told me once')
Enjoy...
K
- Bono
The Gold Coast is full of wonderful and aspiring musicians, but you've got to have a certain knack to leave a group of people speechless. The Lamplights are more than a band; they are a brotherhood, and they pride themselves on sharing their journey with the community, and connecting with people. I was blown away when I saw them play at Mandala Organic Arts Cafe on the weekend. In the spare time before their performance they were interacting with everyone, sharing their experiences, and making people feel like they belonged. What struck me the most was when I caught a glimpse of them outside before their performance. They were together arms in arms, huddled under shelter from the pouring rain. It seemed to me they were sharing a secret ode between them, something that looked powerful beyond measure. Clearly this intensity shared between them resonates to the audience when they are on stage. "Playing an organic blend of folk, funk, roots, and blues", they have a distinctive emotional atmosphere when they play their music. But beyond the beat, its the power of raw words combined with charm which leaves everyone in the room feeling rejuvenated, enlightened, inspired, and moved. You can't fault them. Because its not only what you hear, its the experience. Its how they touch peoples hearts and make them dance in revelry. What's more they don't do it for the money...how do I know this? Because their cd's don't have a sale price, it is asked people make a kind donation because they believe its fair they get back what they give. You can see that they honestly do it because they ultimately want to make people happy, and spread positive energy. I believe it is these qualities that make them so very admirable and genuine. I could not help but write this post to share the love with everyone. Check them out at http://www.thelamplights.com/ or their Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/TheLamplights....however it can't beat seeing their gigs live!
(My personal favourites are 'Wallflower' and 'She told me once')
Enjoy...
K
Friday, June 1, 2012
Love.
"Love is as much of an object as an obsession, everybody wants it everybody seeks it...and those who do will cherish it, be lost in it, and among all, will never... never forget it."
- Curtis Judalet
I woke up today feeling nothing but grateful. I think the quote above describes it well. Sometimes we need to take a step back and look, think, feel, and immerse ourselves in the love that surrounds us. The love that is for ourselves, our family, our friends, and our soul mates. It's one thing to say you love someone, but it's something more when you feel it. The feeling when you know you have support from the ones you love no matter what. Because they don't judge you for the right or wrong decisions you make. They love you for who you are. They laugh at your stupidity, they hold you when you cry, they sit and listen to your thoughts, and they they admire your successes. They never put you down, they are never jealous, and they never intentionally hurt you. It is these very qualities that make them the loves of our lives. Something that we hold so preciously close to our hearts.
Love is all around us...
K
- Curtis Judalet
I woke up today feeling nothing but grateful. I think the quote above describes it well. Sometimes we need to take a step back and look, think, feel, and immerse ourselves in the love that surrounds us. The love that is for ourselves, our family, our friends, and our soul mates. It's one thing to say you love someone, but it's something more when you feel it. The feeling when you know you have support from the ones you love no matter what. Because they don't judge you for the right or wrong decisions you make. They love you for who you are. They laugh at your stupidity, they hold you when you cry, they sit and listen to your thoughts, and they they admire your successes. They never put you down, they are never jealous, and they never intentionally hurt you. It is these very qualities that make them the loves of our lives. Something that we hold so preciously close to our hearts.
Love is all around us...
K
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