garruppo

STUNNING

2011-11-30T13:25:00.001-05:00

Thank you to the editors and art department of Vanity Fair for giving us one of the most beautiful covers I have seen in a while. Ok, I get it, I'm bias. It's Gaga, but look at that TYPE! OH MAN it's perfect! And for the first time in about 5 years Annie's photograph isn't singing me a freaking lullaby. This is the best use of the color red in the history of it's existence! Exaggeration perhaps but it's still beautiful. I can't wait to feast my eyes and talk about it with my Mom! Now, let's hope it isn't as thin as poor Lucky magazine. It's practically a pamphlet this month. Printed magazines are my favorite thing in the world next to bourbon and shoes and without all three I would be a very miserable person. No, I'm not going to throw up a hashtag with "first world problems" following it. Life it what it is, I have real problems, I just choose not to talk about them.

Back to the good:

Take a look at the placement of Adele's name below. I had to scan the entire cover before finding it, being smaller than the "100 Best Sex Tips". I get her image is on the cover but it seems secondary to the bullshit articles featured. I'm so thankful VF is giving credit where credit is due!

Porters on the Lane

2011-11-16T15:29:00.001-05:00

Here's some shots I did a few weeks ago of one of my favorite places to have a meal and a drink in Bellport. The martini's are always cold and the food is truly amazing. It seems like pleasant surprises and happy people are always surrounding you here. If you're ever on the east end of Long Island stop in! The mussels appetizer is UNREAL and they have a super happy hour. Thanks to Dan Derby for letting me stop in! More to come later, now I'm off to the Gilt night shift.

Surprise Surprise

2011-11-07T17:31:00.002-05:00

I was Lady Gaga for Halloween! As I said in a prior post, I love to sew around this time of year. We had a freak storm the Saturday of Halloween weekend and it wasn't permitting me to prance around Manhattan in this get up. It was around 32 degrees and freezing so instead I wore this:

It was Tyler's idea and a brilliant one because it saved me from being miserable in the slushy wet streets of the Meatpacking district. We ended up at a club dancing the night away under 30 disco balls and bottle service (ooo wee fancy!)

Back to Paparazzi, I had gone back and forth in my mind debating which female pop star I should dress up as, and of course gaga won. The battle to decide which look to do is even more difficult but I ended with the above. It was easy enough to make in a week. I hand drew each of the mickey mouse and ironed them on. The shoulders had two pieces of Styrofoam wrapped in fabric. The corset was pint with boobs and naturally I modified it to look as close as possible. My kitchen looked like a designers nightmare for a few days but it's back to normal now.

It's also Peter's birthday on Old Hallow's Eve so to officially celebrate we went to see Conan O'Brian and I wore the yellow ridiculousness. It was fun!

Paws Up

2011-11-07T16:20:00.002-05:00

Some people say the video for You and I wasn't as successful as some in her past, but after watching it a few times I'm starting to understand it. Comprehend or not, these two looks stand out the most. One day I'll gain the courage to do so many things, wear a turquoise wig is most definitely top 5.

Ze Haus Warming Party

2011-11-07T15:42:00.001-05:00

Perry's Housewarming was unbelievable. Bellport/Patchogue/East Patchogue/Brooklyn got together and raged until the wee hours of the morning. We ate as we always do, drank too much and laughed until we cried. Here's some photos!

After the party we played pool in Koreatown until the sun came up. I really love you all so much.

An Apron for Perry

2011-11-07T13:47:00.002-05:00

Perry recently had a housewarming party to celebrate her bad ass new digs in Chelsea. Of course, I can't just get her a bottle of champagne or candles or a decorative plate. Instead, I made her an apron. Around October every year I get the urge to sew. I made my Halloween costume this year which I'll put on here, but also felt the need to make this for her. It took me a day and I'd say in the most humble way possible that I'm getting pretty damn good a sewing.

This towel is probably 17 years old. When I was a kid I had a very strange love for Troy Akmin and the Dallas Cowboys, and as far as I'm concerned him and Emitt Smith still play.

The butcher block that doubles as a sewing station.


The HOEstest with the mostest!

Photos to follow of the paaaarrrtay!

Tenderloinz

2011-10-13T21:44:00.003-04:00

Here's another diet dinner, one purchased mostly of Trader Joe's produce. Man that store is great! It was my first time visiting the one in Manhattan and although the line was literally wrapping around the store, it went pretty fast and everyone was pleasant.

Sage and sea salt accompany this pork tenderloin along side of string beans with onions and shiitake mushrooms. The roasted tomatoes were my favorite though. Perry, Peter and I sat and drank wine and spoke about this super weekend about to take place!

My Apartment

2011-10-13T13:29:00.000-04:00

Apartment hunting in NYC is a full time job. When shopping around, I not only needed to keep my wants and desires in mind, but also Peter's and finding something he likes on my budget was nearly impossible. I ended up finding a little one bedroom railroad in the heart of Bushwick. It's cheap, relatively big and perfect for the two of us. There is one small problem, though; it's located in the heart of Bushwick. For those of you who aren't familiar with the areas of Brooklyn, Bushwick is populated by young creatives and people from Puerto Rico and some parts of Central America and in my immediate area, there's a garbage transfer facility around the corner along with other random industrial companies that don't exactly provide for the cleanest or most pleasant smelling neighborhood. I love Latin culture and cuisine (we have the BEST Latin food here), however our floors shake regularly to the vibrations of a sub woofer and both children yelling and cats fighting a battle royal out back keep things, well, interesting. Oh, did I mention there's a car alarm that goes off every morning? It's not your average car alarm- this one has the typical beeping paired with a SHIP FOG HORN. They sound in unison and it's not fun. I also recently spotted a rooster in the back yard.

I'm happy to say that things can only get better from here. It's important to live in the New York City filth for a while to appreciate a condo in Greenpoint with a washer/drier and soundproof walls later in life. Yes, we'll have that one day.

AND OUR FIRE ALARM GOES OFF DAILY. It's beeping right now.

Here's the before pictures. I did take some with my camera but I can't find them, so here's the cell phone pics.

It was by far the worst color green ever to be painted on a wall.

And here's after Mom, Dad, Aunt Mary Gene and I painted. I also need to give a big thank you to my cousin Johnny for helping with the move.

Before Peter and I even arrived at the apartment after driving for 2 days from KC, we HAD to stop at Best Buy to purchase this TV. No complaints, it's sweet.

Stripped, sanded and painted the cabinets.


I love our place but freaking hate the kitchen floor.

Those last few shots were a test with a 17mm Tilt Shift lens. I'll take one for Christmas, please.

Roast Chicken: Beta Version

2011-09-28T22:03:00.000-04:00

Dieting and I are getting along slowly, but I must admit when I first met her, (yes, dieting is a lady- she's a bitch but she's good for you), we didn't exactly see eye to eye. I doubted her constantly and only wanted what I couldn't have. But now that we're on eating terms, I'm starting to warm up. Peter and I have cut out carbs and some dairy, concentrating on taking in a lot of protein and vegetables and drinking a lot of water. I must say, I feel great despite the hunger that takes up about 70% of my day. I suppose it's worth it though. I have a master plan once I get skinny that only Perry knows! Haha!

When on a diet, a little roasted chicky is great. Pair it with some kale, onion, cannelloni beans and a touch of ringing fire alarms, and you've got yourself a healthy hearty meal that scares your neighbors.


Trussed with lemon and onion!

Salt on top, sage and butter under the skin. (I HAD to!)

I freaking love Cale, I mean kale!

In retrospect I probably could have cranked the oven to 475 to get this a little more golden.

But it was so juicy!


Shout out to Kate Margret Kestra Koesterer for the beautiful plate!

Ween you would be proud!

I made this two nights ago and last night I combined everything along with red kidney beans and chicken sausage to make a really good, even better today soup! I'll keep you posted when Roast Chicken 1.0 comes around, but I'd say this was a pretty good first try. Peter thought so!

Oh, and I really did set off the fire alarm in the hall but thankfully it stopped after a few beeps. Cheers to a small apartment with no exhaust system!

Fall/Winter Wish List

2011-09-28T20:37:00.000-04:00

This wish list has been sitting opened in Photoshop for over a month. I've been going back and forth in my mind, attempting to identify the essential things I aim to purchase this season. I think this is the best way to shop. If you're anything like me, you'll find an excuse to buy anything. I'll justify something until I'm blue in the face and red in the checking account, yet I don't need it. I do, however, need a freaking winter coat. I returned the one I purchased last year because it fell apart and never replaced it, only to wear sweatshirts and denim jackets until the cold weather subsided. Sad, I know, so this winter I pledge to be warm and not look like like a fool. Plus, it's my first official New York City winter as a resident so I need to look the part. No more hours and hours on the train!

A breakdown:

1. Reiss wide brim hat. $55

2. PRADA BAROQUE HOLY SHIT SUNGLASSE S in shell. $300
Yes, you're reading that right. I bought them! AND THE BEST PART IS I paid a clean $100 for them. Here's a short version: Perry and I decided it was time to get out to Off Fifth (the Saks outlet) mid summer. We slowly grazed through the sunglasses like goats searching for the perfect piece of grass to eat. She yelled out to me if I liked a certain pair and not even looking up I said "No, they're not the Prada's I want." Actually I didn't say it, I wined it like a little baby. I made my way around to the opposite side, looked up and came close to flat lining on the center Juicy display. My heart dropped and I had a hard time breathing. THERE THEY WERE. The only pair in the store. But how? Why? They're only being offered in department stores now! They must have been a return. Either way, they are unscratched, godly, heavenly, and perfect just like your precious first born. You're jealous. Don't worry, as I type this I stop every once in a while to pick at the broken skin on my upper lip from a home wax job gone a little wrong. I'm not that cool I just find a good deal once in a while.

3. H&M Wide Leg khaki pants. $40

4. Carven Neoprene skirt. $710 *Good news! Joe Fresh, a Canadian H&M type deal is moving to Soho in November and they make one for around $70!*

5. Burberry Trench $1,200.

6. Cambridge Sachel Company $150 These things are incredible sturdy.

7. Stella McCartny Double breasted evening coat $2,000

8. Moncler men's Parka $870

9. Reverse French Manicure $30

10. Louis Vuitton Stiletto Rain Boots $too much. These are in every editorial in every October issue ever.

Beach Plum Wine Mixer 2011 Part IV: The Madness Continued

2011-09-19T17:39:00.000-04:00

As in keeping with our tradition, we all ended the night dancing until we pulled a hamstring at the Casino. Kevin, our bartender friend said that he had been working all day and was looking forward to an easy night. After all, it is September and who's making it to the beach on a cold evening? Well, needless to say, he was filled with mixed emotion when the "barefoot mafia" showed up. He would make money but be staying until 5 am- when some of us finally left the bar.

The next day we cleaned up slowly. We laid on the big mattress for a good hour holding on to every ounce of sunshine and salted air that hit our skin. We were all understanding that the summer is officially over and perhaps one of the best nights of the year has passed.

Conner, Steve, Nelson, Perry, Christina and I gathered our things and sadly made our way to the boat. As we set sail, Conner turned up the music, Christina, Perry and I looked up to the clouds that have never been that three dimensional, felt the wind rushing through our dirty, sandy hair and looked back at our favorite place. We were sitting on the bow while the three boys navigated us home. About halfway over, I noticed a smile never our faces. We are living a very luxurious life.

Beach Plum Wine Mixer 2011 Part III: The Madness

2011-09-19T17:12:00.000-04:00

The table is low, it sits on milk crates, so our seating has to be quite low as well. This proves for the perfect atmosphere for our group of friends - intimate. We like to cuddle; the idea of personal space must cease when spending time with us. We also love to drink. The wine flowed and even some beer and the longer then night went on, the more NSFW (not safe for work, for all my non-frequent web browsers) the images became. Connor was our music man, providing us with disco and funk, setting the mood perfectly. Here we go...

Beach Plum Wine Mixer 2011 Part II: The Food

2011-09-19T16:56:00.000-04:00

Our food

butternut squash with lemon scented ricotta and sage crustini

roast beef with arugula and horseradish spread crustini

NOT mums

carrot and apple curry soup with creme fraiche and salted pistachios served room temperature

mini pumpkin cheesecake

chips, dip, cheese, crackers, ya know.

I got there a little late, so the food had already started to disappear.

Beach Plum Wine Mixer 2011

2011-09-19T16:49:00.001-04:00

   My Grandma called my mom yesterday and said "Your girls like nice things, they don't just sit around a drink beer." Well, g-ma, sometimes we do, but sometimes we work really hard, dress up really nice, and indulge in food, wine and dancing.
   My sister is unbelievable. Perry, Christina and I had a conference call to set up menu and nail down some last minute items and Christina had nothing to bring to the table. After we got off the phone, Perry and I were worried that maybe she was too busy with school and work to really think about what to make. Well, fast forward to Friday. I'm at work in the city and those two are hustling around Patchogue, rummaging through the isles of super markets and brewing up one of the best menus I have ever heard or tasted at a party. I got emails throughout the day with thoughts and phrases as they pulled it together. My excitement was through the roof. I left early, ran for the train and got home in time for spaghetti and meatballs. Later that night, Rachel, Perry, Christina and I cooked until 11:30, then crashed.
   I'm convinced Perry should go into producing or party planning. This girl made sure everything went smoothly. We had meeting times in place, a list of items to buy and pulled it all off before the 12:00 boat left Saturday afternoon. (This was with the help of Rachel too- she can really get things done FAST).
   I had to cater a party Saturday evening and best believe when the dj threw on Bad Romance I was inches away from crawling on the floor and dancing on one of the Mom's on the buffet line. I kept it together, barely.
   Nelson picked me up and we hopped on Conner's boat. The ride over was beautiful. The air was crisp and my lipstick was in place. The music was on and all three of us couldn't wait to get over there. It was looking out to be a really incredible night.
   Walking up to the beach on Beach Blum was as cinematic as Heath Ledger hanging out the taxi window in Batman (I always thought that was a pretty shot). The candles were lit, the food was out and the gang was all there. Here's our invitation that was snail mailed out to the lucky A listers:

This is going to be broken down into a few posts.. I have a lot of photos to share. Tyler Baker was the paparazzo for the evening, so most of the images are compliments of her!

MEMO

2011-09-16T13:55:00.000-04:00

I haven't given Gaga a proper shout out in a while, and I would love nothing more than be able to CC her on an email. "Hey what's up girl? I'm going to the beach this weekend, you should come! Hell yea it's going to be rad, leave your Nina Ricci's at home, they'll get ruined at the Casino. Oh you're in? Great, bring a bottle of wine. And an extra wig, I really like the turquoise bob. Thanks boo."

So I'm having pretend conversations with Lady Gaga. It's fine, I'm probably fine.

I know this isn't beach-like at all but who do you think I am? Normal? Did you really think I was going to throw on that Lilly Pulitzer and age appropriate?

Missoni for Target

2011-09-13T13:16:00.000-04:00

I woke up early, made myself a cup of coffee, put on a little mascara and kissed Peter goodbye. I was off to Target to snag some of the new Missoni for Target items. Well, as it turns out, 9:30 is too late to show up. I walked in, saw the signs towering over the other garments on the floor and rushed over. A knot was born in the pit of my stomach. Everything was gone. CLEANED OUT. The store opened at 8 and by 9:30 it was completely clear. My phone vibrated so I picked it up and saw that Groupon is having a mani-pedi deal and out of pure sadness and slight depression, I bought it. I know, this is all stupid white girl problems.
Women in the store were hoarding the dresses and scarves, collecting in corners auctioning off the last pair of a size 5.5 woman's shoe. One woman was attempting to wear a child's dress because it was all that was left. It felt like this was the female mob and we were pushing weight on the black market. Who needs a human kidney when the coveted blue maxi dress was at stake!

"Are you looking for Missoni?"
"Yes!"
"OK follow me.." one said as she burned the shopping cart rubber.
(almost a full out sprint to the vacuum cleaner isle)
"It looks like you only have kids stuff in there"
"I have bedding too!! I don't think I'm taking it either!"
"YES!!" the other yelled.

As I walked around the store looking as if my dog just died, I continued to cross things off my list. I bought the fancy toilet paper because Peter gets mad when I buy the cheap stuff. I looked forward to picking out my first ever bottle of Mrs. Myers hand soap. I'm officially Brooklyn now. I finally cracked a half ass smile when I saw a big bottle of environmentally friendly laundry detergent was on sale.
I text Perry when I got home to tell her of my terrible morning. ~~Well, I always have target.com~~! Here's what I got:

Crashed servers.

Maybe I'm not meant to have anything. Maybe I'm throwing Bushwick's biggest pity party and no one's invited. Just me.

Here's a look from the collection.

Damnit.

NYFW 2012 Part 2

2011-09-12T14:37:00.000-04:00

And now, the number one RTW holy moly artichokey I need the ENTIRE COLLECTION in my closet, accessories included, druuummmroooolllllll please..........

JIL SANDER NAVY

I love so much about this line, but I think I'm getting more and more attracted to business, working woman doing her thang clothing. It's a mix between summer picnic and making money in the office. I love the sleeveless oxford shirts! AND THOSE SHOES! I will justify buying a sky high 6 in heel that I'll never wear, but these I actually like and can wear all night! I just purchased the Jeffrey Campbell shoes that look (kind of) similar. They were my birthday gift to myself, they look great and didn't break the bank! Let's be real, I can't smartly afford anything over $200 and that's pushing it.

NYFW 2012

2011-09-12T14:26:00.000-04:00

I didn't go. I didn't attend one event, however thanks to the endless super web, Style.com has shown me every single show that has gone on thus far. It's hard to get into the Spring Summer mood right now. I'm just finishing up my Fall/Winter wish list (you'll see it soon) so picking out my favorite looks for the warmer months is a lot more difficult then one would think. I found myself underwhelmed by many of the designers but I can't help think it's only because I just convinced myself that it's okay summer has ended, we have boots and stockings to look forward to. I was REALLY not happy with Y-3, a regular favorite of mine. I don't want to put too much negative energy on this blog but wowza it looked sloppy and effortless in the worst way possible. Here's a look:


Photo via style.com

Anywayz, back to the good! Here's some highlights (in my opinion, of course)

Tracy Reese taking the cake for that "Evita" looking black lace beauty! Can I wear that constantly? PLEASE?

WAVE CUT CITY

2011-09-10T16:28:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was a GREAT day. Perry, Nelson and I took the train, for the first time ever, to Long Beach to watch the Quicksilver Pro Surf Competition. I must say, I like Davis Park much better but Long Beach was pretty neat. It reminded me of a bigger Tybee (in Savannah) and a little less kitschy. It was the perfect day to be out of the city and at the beach. First, we went to an ATM and I took out some cash, only to see a check hit my account and I was rich! Then, we went down to the beach and watched Kelly Slater and Owen Wright "get pitted" in waves I didn't know existed on the the East Coast, then we met up with some bro's and Tyler and I purchased a child's bathing suit (because I didn't bring one) for $5 and we went swimming. I got a little color, the water was salty and I was a happy camper.

The very tall Owen Wright took the competition!

I finished the night at 5 Ninth in the meatpacking with Nelson while Perry was babysitting and hot damn that food is good. You should go. Totally.

Here's some pics from the event. Enjoy!


Take a picture of me and Gucci.

Our King!

I hate Football

2011-09-08T12:34:00.000-04:00

I'm not booked this week. It always sucks to hear "they decided to go with a different photographer", but you win some. you lose some. Tonight is Fashion Night Out in Manhattan and I'm pretty excited. I covered some events last year for CITY Magazine and had a great time but this year I get to enjoy it. It's also the NFL season opener which I care absolutely positively nothing about. Peter and I are a bit torn tonight, but I'm more than happy to attend some of these fun fashion girly events solo.

Actually, in all honestly. I'm feeling a bit low today. I did get nixed from a gig and my wonderful summer is over. Not to worry, we're still planning our Annual Wine Mixer to officially end summer, but the reality is, it's over. No more gallivanting at the beach, no more sun dresses, no more skimpy clothes. We have to wait almost an eternity to do that again. Can you feel my bitchy complaining yet? I'm sorry. I'm just bummed.

I can't remember when this trip was, but I'm thinking it may have been in the spring. I've been digging through my hard drives and have been recovering a lot of photos that need to be shown. Here we have a trip to Kansas City before Peter moved to New York. It's about food, mostly but that seems to make me happy!

We started out at this adorable place called Happy Gillis. Everything was awesome and as always, Peter hates when I take pictures of him.

YUM

Then we (well Peter, I'm always broke) did a bit of shopping...

and I don't remember if he bought anything.

And then we continued to eat and drink.

all

after

noon.

I lost those sunglasses, I know, it's SO SAD. But I got new ones!

I'ts not a trip to KC unless I'm making meatballs.

This bread is from Fervere Bakery in KC. There's a line out the door until 1 pm when it's all sold out. GOOD GOD delicious.

Julia made Lasagna!

My Sister's Friends REALLY KNOW THEIR WAY AROUND A GRILL

2011-09-01T18:48:00.000-04:00

My sister, as you know, is a culinary student at Johnson & Whales. This year on our beach vacation, she brought some of her fellow classmates along for the ride and that means my friends were in a taste bud heaven. A lot of my blog posts have to do with me eating, but I'm sorry, I love to eat and I have a lot of people around me that love to cook so it works. Have I gained weight you ask? Why yes, yes I have. ANYWAY...

These are not in order, blogger has a terrible uploader and it's hard to control where they go. 'll fix that later. Now I'm headed home to begin the rage fest of Labor Day Weekend! Love you all!

GUESS WHO SURPRISED US!


Our favorite Aunt!

.... yep.


These are my mom's and aunt's sarong's that our uncle bought them from Miami. Needless to say they went to good use.

The food they made was nothing short of fantastic. It's so nice to see my little weener has awesome friends!

4TH OF JULY

2011-08-31T16:26:00.000-04:00

I'd consider my group of friends patriotic. We love America and we love to celebrate. We also love to celebrate at Davis Park. This year, we got together at Perry's house, as we always do, made last minute costumes because it's best to draw attention to ourselves with minimal clothing, and drank and danced until we couldn't stand up anymore. Peter, being a mid western boy, has on average 1,600 hours of fire work experience. How is that possible? you ask. We don't know, he just kept telling us that. Peter and I brought fireworks back from our half-cross country trip this past May. I wouldn't allow the big ones because I'm a worrier but we had ample sparklers and other things that shot up into the night sky. Peter single handedly provided us with our very own Grucci caliber firework show, escaping death with each and every light of the detonator. I didn't get images of that- by that time I had no business holding a camera and attempting to make a photograph. Instead I was playing flip cup.

Here's images from before we ventured to the Casino, our favorite place on earth.

Easter and an apology.

2011-08-31T14:38:00.002-04:00

Hello all my loyal followers, I hope you're still out there. I haven't posted in months MONTHS and I do genuinely feel bad. It's been a very busy summer for me! I've officially moved into Brooklyn, started freelancing at Conde Nast and continued to shoot interiors and my friends and family. Needless to say I have a lot for you and some time off this week so I intend on sharing a good amount!
So here we have Easter. I know, it's August and practically September but I finally got to it. I LOVE Easter. My mom's family from Caroll Gardens comes out and they bring the most delicious breads, cookies and wine you can image. My mouth is watering like a dog on a hot day right now, partially because I'm starving and Peter isn't home yet so I can't eat, partially because this food is really incredible. We get our fair share from Del Fiore (reference them here) and it all comes together in a meat and bread heaven. My mom always said that in the hills of southern Italy they would have this big picnic with minimal cooking to celebrate the end of Lent. I'm pretty sure we modify it but we try to keep with tradition.

ha!

2011-04-11T16:14:00.001-04:00

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OPI krackle

2011-03-30T12:02:00.001-04:00

Thank you Katy Perry. I love nail art.

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POSTING MACHINE!!

2011-03-14T15:27:00.000-04:00

It's been a while (prior to today) that I've posted and honestly I've been pretty busy. Here's some outtakes from a shoot I did for AmmoMag.com. They're great people to work with and for and had an awesome idea for this shoot. I had a great time and hope to work for them again!

The theme of the shoot was recreating men's icons throughout the years while adding a fashionable twist. Here's my favorites:

Andre 3000

Malcom X


Marlon Brando


Clint Eastwood

Michael Jackon


Steve McQueen

Dad's 60th Birthday

2011-03-14T15:08:00.000-04:00

Gene turned 60 on March 5 and we had a few people over to celebrate. He's been working like a dog and deserves the world, but instead he got chocolate pudding pie, cheesecake, and crumb cake and I have a feeling it was just right. Love you Dad! Michele also celebrated her birthday and Jake helped blow out some candles. He played photographer that night too, I'll have some of his photos up on here soon.

Ski Trip for Teresa's Birthday!

2011-03-14T13:28:00.002-04:00

So it's been about a month since we've skied, but I finally have the pictures done. We went up to Hunter Mountain to celebrate Teresa's 25th birthday. There was a vast array of not only people but ski skill levels which kept things hysterical and interesting. We started the weekend skiing at Windham Mountain and finished at Hunter. I must say, I surprised myself with my ability although I was telling the kids on the ski lift that I'm a shredder on those moguls. Then I fell off the ski lift proving myself wrong. Either way, we had a BLAST. Here's the photos of the weekend, of course leaving out the rager at "Slopes" the club/bar at Hunter. If there was evidence of that most of us would no longer have jobs, unless the jobs involved men dressed as Elvis and a limbo bar.

The snow bunnies aka black like the omen aka with a little pink like Niki.


Kevin got a little photo (drunk) lesson and here's one of his images.

And here's the shot with the 50mm.

Good morning, make me breakfast!!!!!

Throughout the trip there was a running joke about woman and man duties. Apparently building a fire isn't a woman's strong point but don't tell the guys I said it. Maybe I just need practice.

hahaha

it's not minx! it's sally hansen!

2011-03-10T21:35:00.001-05:00

Did it about a week ago and it's still on! I'm probably sticking with this for a while, or at least til I find something better. And only $11! (Yes that's a high school cheerleading sweatshirt of mine, but it's late and I'm tired)

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a gift..

2011-03-10T10:46:00.001-05:00

Perry brought me this back from Costa Rica and it is by far the most delicious coffee I've ever had!

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ski bunny

2011-02-25T11:38:00.001-05:00

Skiing this weekend, more pictures to come! What a week, I'm happy to be busy and even happier to be skiing with my girl Teresa for her birthday!

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I Bought This Two Days Ago...

2011-02-21T15:44:00.001-05:00

And have waited until my flight to read it! I'll give you my two cents on the article soon.. Kansas city food post to come later this week!

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kansas city cup cakes

2011-02-20T18:43:00.001-05:00

I'll be home tomorrow!

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White Bean and Homemade Pasta Soup

2011-01-31T17:18:00.000-05:00

A few days ago Perry and I woke up from a slumber to snow/rain/ice/wintery mix weather outside and sat our butts down to watch some Top Chef. Well put that together with a small hangover and you get this weird feeling in you to make something delish. After thumbing through various cooking magazines dating back from 2003, we landed on a white bean and pasta soup. This then evolved into "we should probably have something green today" and kale was added. Then after a quick application of make up we faced the elements to go to the pork store. (I'm not your girl's girl but I won't make a trip to Del Fiore with a bare face- for all my non-local readers, there is a handful of beautiful Italian men that work at this Italian meat market who tend to make you weak at the knees and coax you into buying a couple more links of sausage then you probably need.) We asked them what kind of sausage should we add, only to repeat the last thing they said because I'm so distracted by the sparkling smiles. Pathetic? Perhaps but the girls around here know what I mean.
After a bit of confusion and a couple cranks at the good 'ol pasta machine, the soup came together. I must say, I did this without my sister, a culinary student at Johnson and Whales who really knows her shit. It came out FANTASTIC! Kate took some pictures, as did I.

Kate enjoying V magazine as Charles waits for food to fall to the floor.

We made our very own Farfalle (bowties).

"Charles I don't know why you want this pasta, the sausage on the butcher block is way better"

Rice ball for Dad.

Bailey accidentally got locked in the garage so mom came to the rescue with celery.

She's sexting.. (i'm kidding)

"I don't like kale, it's bitter". Oh yea? I slaved all day making this meal, you can go to bed hungry. (He loved it)

Del Fiore Bread. I hope everyone can have a bite of this before they die.

Perry couldn't sit and eat with us, so here's hers.

Yes.

The kitchen aka magic factory.

Mom did the dishes, bitchbag.

I had to..

GG FAVES DUH!

2011-01-19T19:12:00.000-05:00

I've never done this before but I feel compelled to tell you who my favorite Golden Globe celebs were. There were two, so don't get too excited.

Claire Danes looking great in Calvin Klein Collection.

Anne Hathaway looking equally as gorgeous in Giorgio Armani Privé.

My biggest pet peeve is you can't see the shoes! If I ever make it to the red carpet my dress will tea length to shoe off my Nina Ricci's or Proenza Schouler's.

I FERL GREAT

2011-01-08T18:13:00.001-05:00

Hello Dumbo. Staying the week at Quinn's place while he's in Costa Rica!

...thank you, so much. I love it here.

My Kinda Show... (Can I wear it after we're done?)

2011-01-08T12:28:00.000-05:00

Watch a Preview for the Delightfully Named New Show Kill It, Cook It, Eat It

And last but not least..

2011-01-06T14:11:00.000-05:00

NEW SITE IS UP (but not fully done)

GO LOOK, you know you're just sitting there looking for cool shit anyway.

I have so much to do why am I still posting?! Oh yea, take a look at that FAVICON!

Christian Dior Flagship Store

2011-01-06T14:06:00.000-05:00

I'll take one of everything.

So as aforementioned, I recently photographed the new store in midtown. I was there a total of four times documenting the process of the construction. Here are some of my favorite shots:

Hair on your chest...

2011-01-06T13:03:00.001-05:00

Last night I shared some of this delicious Bourbon with my good friend Johnny. The beauty of whiskey is the absence of a hang over.

Enjoy the day!

That's why I don't make New Year's Resolutions....

2011-01-04T13:45:00.000-05:00

Because I can't keep them. "I can't" is such a terrible phrase. I hate feeling unaccomplished. To freshen your memories, my 2010 NYR was to post on my blog 365 times in a year. It didn't happen, not even close and I do feel a little bad. It's very difficult to sit down at your computer at least 5 times a week, type up some bullshit or edit some new images. I tried, not my best. This year I will NOT make it my resolution because frankly, I don't believe in them. If you want to do something, you'll do it- there's no need to flap your jaw about your one goal for the year. How about 10 small resolutions? I want to learn how to drink scotch. I will pay my student loans on time (no, no that won't happen until one of the 5 potential employers that I contacted today hires me). I want to keep myself under 135lbs. I would like to take ballet classes. I want to learn my camera settings so I can scroll through them eyes shut (that's actually a good one).

I will however, put my best foot forward and post on this blog a TON. I have a great log of images from this year that need to be seen.

Like this:

Recently I photographed the process of the new Christian Dior flagship store being constructed on 57th & Madison. The finished product is absolutly incredible! I'll have images up after this post.

As for these boots- I saw them in the Dior fall ad campaign and could barely contain myself. I had fallen in love with the over-the-knee boot and of course, these are the first ones I see. It's always a curse when you tumble head over heels for the $1,750 pair of shoes and can't seem to find a pair you like for a modest $300. It happens to me more than I would like.

The blue dot means nothing. I looked into it.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

BROWN BUTTER ICE CREAM

2010-12-27T11:20:00.001-05:00

CHRISTMAS ISNT HERE JUST YET...

2010-12-06T19:03:00.001-05:00

But I know what's inside that box! And you'll get to see after the 24th. (That's when I'm allowed to wear them)

She's the best.

2010-12-02T21:11:00.002-05:00

And I'm the never ending house guest!

.... thanks for everything. You are the best!

I'll be sure to get out the Daisey Dukes before drinking..

2010-11-20T13:54:00.000-05:00

It's not available in stores yet but some places are selling in in NY, LA, Chicago, etc. This could be a fun adventure when Peter's visiting!

via

Sweet.

2010-11-20T13:26:00.000-05:00

I always wanted to be an official Storm Trooper for Halloween.

via

OOOOHHH NO!!!

2010-11-18T20:56:00.000-05:00

TOPSHOP Spring Summer 2011.

I absolutely positively 100% OMG I'M FREAKING OUT I'M A LITTLE SHORT OF BREATH in love with these and I hope to god they end up in my closet next year. My birthday is June 12 and I wear an 8. I love you, did I ever tell you that? Yea you, you're my favorite.

via

While we're on the topic of TOPSHOP...

Mom had the same in green.

Mom, I'm sorry.

2010-11-14T12:32:00.000-05:00

Here's the pictures from Nicholas Vedros! He did a great job, as all the images look freaking awesome. I'm apologizing to my mom because I wasn't very appropriate in a couple, but I'm posting them anyway.

In all honestly, they were playing Gaga while I was getting photographed and I can't help but become a different human when her catchy pop beats are flowing through my ear canals. Some of us have witnessed the effects of "Bad Romance" at the Casino... well this wasn't too far off. I'm not sure if I genuinely like her music, I'm more interested in the bad ass attitude that is her. I want to wear meat when I go to the grocery store, not sweatpants. Get it?

Bad dogs.

2010-11-12T12:56:00.001-05:00

Forever Wish List

2010-11-08T21:26:00.000-05:00

Some people may stumble upon by blog and gasp in disgust. How could one be so materialistic? All this bitch cares about is designer cigarettes and shoes. Well truth is, I'm bored. I live at home, I work a few days a week in Brooklyn therefore I get on the 6:01am train and get back around 7pm. I don't go out during the week because I'm broke and tired and I indeed do have a love for shiny things. I suppose the reason I make these superficial and hopeless lists is because I don't want to be deemed as lazy. If a possible employer reads by blog they may think I'm tacky for having fake blonde hair, but at least the pen tool skills are being worked. One day I'll get those shoes though. And I do enjoy a Basil Hayden on the rocks once in a while.
Who knows, maybe you ARE interested in what two wheeled beauty I'd love drive one day.

Bay in the bay.

2010-11-08T20:12:00.000-05:00

Bay Rose

2010-11-07T21:32:00.000-05:00

Not too long ago I shot some pictures of my dear friend Bay. We have a great time playing dress up and frolicking around her life size chess board and front yard beach. She's one of my favorite people to shoot because she likes being shot! I have more but here's one that's on its way to being done. Miss you girl! (She just moved to Florida)

How was everyone's weekend?

GOOD MORNING

2010-11-07T11:55:00.001-05:00

Last night a bunch of us went to Stephen talkhouse in Amagansett to see the Black Petals rock out. Jimmy Fallon even got on stage with Big Daddy James!

2010-11-06T17:42:00.001-04:00

Comatose Commuter

2010-11-06T17:40:00.001-04:00

SILICON SALINE POISON INJECT ME

2010-11-04T14:48:00.000-04:00

It's no secret that I have an affinity for Lady Gaga. I love absolutely everything about her- from her blond hair and brown eyebrows all the way to torn fishnets. It was a no brain-er that I had to put my fake blond hair to use this Halloween and pay homage to my girl. I made the costume from scratch (kind of) and documented the progress. Here it is!

So my best impression of Gaga may not be all that good, but I think the hair and makeup was a success as well as the garb. This past weekend I also surprised Peter for his Halloween birthday! I booked a cheap ticket last Tuesday and showed up Saturday for some classic Kansas City style partying. Our good friend Nicholas Vedros shot some awesome photos of us in his studio. For the first time in my life I'm excited to see images of myself, perhaps more than my senior prom or year book photos. I'll hopefully have some images from that shoot up really soon. Thanks to everyone who kept my visit a secret and I really miss you all!

Aside from making Gaga, I was also commissioned (ha!) to make a Jasmine costume for my best friend since kindy, Teresa. We were little sweatshop whores for a week and it was so awesome. I've never sewed an entire look from head to toe and I'm pretty satisfied with the result.

Gaga and Jaz!

Meant to be!

He Ain't A Bachelor No More

2010-10-19T22:28:00.000-04:00

Russell got married! On October 10, 2010 Russell and Anissa were wed in a beautiful ceremony in Savannah, GA. I was delighted to shoot some pictures at the rehearsal dinner. Here they are!

Mrs. Goeken (Russell's Mom) thought I should be documented as well!


The Bride and her Maid of Honor, Kristen.

Greg and the man of the hour, Russell.

Love!

Please make this your profile picture.

The boys!

We had such a great time in Savannah. Peter and I ended up meeting each other in Atlanta and then flew to Savannah. When we got there and jumped in a cab I looked out the window and said "I feel like I never left." At one point in the weekend I heard Mike saying "This is the only other city aside from Kansas City that I can call home, because it feels like home." We spent four years together and after many of us not seeing each other for some time, we picked up right where we left off. I love you all so much.

Congratulations Russell and Anissa!

I have a really busy week so no posts til the weekend. Au Revoir!

Vogue Paris, A Single Man, and Perry!

2010-10-17T20:47:00.001-04:00

What a nice night.

Assisting a shoot near the Cloisters

2010-10-17T12:22:00.001-04:00

Mom's Sauce Company!!!

2010-10-16T14:04:00.000-04:00

Mommy dearest is starting a sauce company! She's been selling her sauce at Wallen's Market in Bellport and really doing well! On November 6 she's having a tasting so she needed some promo pictures shot. We had a great day of food styling in our studio (kitchen). Since I've been living at home Mom and I are spending a lot of time together and I'm not embarrassed to say that it's great. Here's the pics and the flyer!

Back at the airport.

2010-10-12T14:50:00.001-04:00

What a fabulous weekend! Congratulations Russell! I think I lost 2 of my nine lives but I'm still here - we all are - so it's something to be thankful over. I'll have pictures from the rehearsal dinner at the end of the week.

Landing in ATL

2010-10-07T14:49:00.001-04:00

Longest commute ever right?

Three hour's got me thinking..

2010-10-07T12:23:00.001-04:00

Sitting in an airport can strike up a plethora of feelings, especially if you're traveling alone. I'm an individual with the gift of gab (or that's my excuse) and I get terribly antsy when I can't talk. After reading the Thursday Times cover to cover and calling Peter twice only to bitch about my lay over, I opted to take a walk. I have not had a drink yet. I used the restroom for the second time, did a bit of people watching and eves dropping, and ended up at what we know as Hudson News. This is the equivalent of the Saks fifth avenue outlet for me when traveling. I will find something to buy every single time. Before departing JFK I purchased W and saved half for the DC to ATL flight, but the three hours is slowly eating away at me and the $25 left in my pocket is burning away. As I walk around slowly like a hungry lion my eyes stopped at the "fashion / women's interest". Every single damn cover looks the same. Same color palates, same sans serif fonts, same heavily retouched actress posing against a solid background And almost identical lighting scheme. It bored me immensely, almost to the point of anger. I love magazines more than any other form of entertainment but they'll start losing me if someone doesn't do something different. What are your thoughts?

I ended up getting Harper Bazaar Runway Report for $7 for the sheet reason that it didn't have a stupid actress on the cover. Now who wants to buy me Vogue Paris and make me feel all better?

Hey kid I want your BLONDE

2010-10-07T10:19:00.001-04:00

Get ready for ridiculous posts all day. I'm in DC for 3 hours then Atlanta then Savannah. It's this or drinking and the latter is rather 'spensive.

Early morning take off

2010-10-07T08:35:00.001-04:00

Au revior New York

2010-10-07T08:23:00.001-04:00

I'm off to (Washington DC, then Atlanta) Savannah.

It's wedding time!

Beach Plum Dinner Party

2010-10-02T09:19:00.000-04:00

My friend Perry has an uncanny ability to throw parties. And not lame, frat-ish parties where there's just a keg and beer pong, we're talking beautiful events with table clothes, wine and wine glasses (as opposed to plastic) and flowers. There had been talk all summer long that we wanted to do a lavish dinner party with a dance floor and banquet style tables on the beach, but we never got around to it. One day a little over a month ago, I get a text saying "dinner party Saturday you in? Bring wine" and the next thing I know, we're all at the end of Beach Plum walk at Davis Park, Fire Island. Perhaps my favorite place in the world. Here's the pics!

Best picture ever?

We got a boat ride from Mr. Conklin, how nice!

Quinn took a couple pictures..

Who are they? Where did they come from? How did they get here? Questions still unanswered..

So after we went to the Casino (no, not a gambling casino, just a little bar, the only one at Davis park with top 40, plastic cups, and barefeet) and drank and danced the night away. The next morning I was off on the 8am boat so around 730 I came back down to the beach to see what the aftermath looked like.

...I was glad to see the couch and pillows were being used!

Love you all!

MOLLUSKsurfshop/FOAMmag/fashion show/fun time

2010-09-29T13:45:00.000-04:00

Fashion week was pretty wild for me- I was sleeping on my friend Quinn's couch, Gilt during the day, and events to cover at night. I enjoyed it all very much but I'd have to say my favorite night of all was at Mollusk, hosted by FOAM magazine. My friends Johnny Knapp and Tyler Healy (2/3 of the Corner Store Cooperative) work there and invited me to come check it out. Photos were on display by Kassia Meador, as well as awesome bathing suits and accessories Alexandra Cassaniti. It was a refreshing change of pace- oh yea, the hot dog's were good too.

Thanks for having me!!

Tyler!

Kassia Meador

Quinn! (the other 1/3)

Alexandra Cassaniti

Mollusk on the corner of Metropolitan and River

CAR FOR SALE

2010-09-29T09:14:00.000-04:00

My 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited is for sale! 94K Miles, leather heated seats, sunroof, power everything, all wheel drive with option of 4 wheel drive low. It's a fantastic car that's never been in an accident and regular maintenance has always been taken care of.

I'm asking $7500 but willing to negotiate. Tell all your friends! It's a fantastic car for the winter!

CALL ME- 631-252-1483 or email ggarruppo@gmail.com

LADY GAGA

2010-09-28T23:56:00.001-04:00

No good cameras allowed so a phone will have to do.

Night Stand

2010-09-27T16:51:00.001-04:00

Project for the cornerstore I did last summer

2010-09-27T13:02:00.002-04:00

Miss it so much! It came with 3D glasses I made. This was in Kansas Cit with my and just now I'm going through all my shit. I'm sure the glasses are here somewhere... cheers to being unorganized.

KAJDFHLIHFIUSAGF(&^#%)(#&%(^!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-09-25T21:06:00.000-04:00

Photography by Mert & Marcus

90th Anniversary Issue.
Lara Stone can I have you?

COLOR

2010-09-25T20:28:00.000-04:00

Prada Spring/Summer 2011

Those sunglasses actually hurt me a little inside.

Photos Via.

Saturday morning sunrise. Bright and early drive to assist a shoot in lower Manhattan.

2010-09-25T09:12:00.002-04:00

And tomorrow is a shopping extravaganza with Mandalina!

Wish List

2010-09-24T16:44:00.001-04:00

So every season or so I'd like to make a little wish list of things I drool over and feature some trivial facts about some of the companies. Yes it's an easy trip to Wikipedia. But who cares, right?

*I did recently get that blazer from the Brooks Brothers outlet for $125! I'm still hunting for a kind-of-hookerish-yet-still-classy over the knee boot so if anyone has suggestions comment away!