Objects of Desire: Shoes by Jeffery Campbell.......

 

 

 

 

For more info visit: http://www.jeffreycampbellshoes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jeffrey-Campbell-Shoes/115112778505581

Words of Wisdom: Ang Lee

Ang Lee: A Never-Ending Dream

"In 1978, as I applied to study film at the University of Illinois, my father vehemently objected. He quoted me a statistic: ‘Every year, 50,000 performers compete for 200 available roles on Broadway.’ Against... his advice, I boarded a flight to the U.S. This strained our relationship. In the two decades following, we exchanged less than a hundred phrases in conversation.

Some years later, when I graduated film school, I came to comprehend my father’s concern. It was nearly unheard of for a Chinese newcomer to make it in the American film industry. Beginning in 1983, I struggled through six years of agonizing, hopeless uncertainty. Much of the time, I was helping film crews with their equipment or working as editor’s assistant, among other miscellaneous duties. My most painful experience involved shopping a screenplay at more than thirty different production companies, and being met with harsh rejection each time.

That year, I turned 30. There’s an old Chinese saying: ‘At 30, one stands firm.’ Yet, I couldn’t even support myself. What could I do? Keep waiting, or give up my movie-making dream? My wife gave me invaluable support.

My wife was my college classmate. She was a biology major, and after graduation, went to work for a small pharmaceutical research lab. Her income was terribly modest. At the time, we already had our elder son, Haan, to raise. To appease my own feelings of guilt, I took on all housework – cooking, cleaning, taking care of our son – in addition to reading, reviewing films and writing scripts. Every evening after preparing dinner, I would sit on the front steps with Haan, telling him stories as we waited for his mother – the heroic huntress – to come home with our sustenance (income).

This kind of life felt rather undignified for a man. At one point, my in-laws gave their daughter (my wife) a sum of money, intended as start-up capital for me to open a Chinese restaurant – hoping that a business would help support my family. But my wife refused the money. When I found out about this exchange, I stayed up several nights and finally decided: This dream of mine is not meant to be. I must face reality.

Afterward (and with a heavy heart), I enrolled in a computer course at a nearby community college. At a time when employment trumped all other considerations, it seemed that only a knowledge of computers could quickly make me employable. For the days that followed, I descended into malaise. My wife, noticing my unusual demeanor, discovered a schedule of classes tucked in my bag. She made no comment that night.

The next morning, right before she got in her car to head off to work, my wife turned back and – standing there on our front steps – said, ‘Ang, don’t forget your dream.’

And that dream of mine – drowned by demands of reality – came back to life. As my wife drove off, I took the class schedule out of my bag and slowly, deliberately tore it to pieces. And tossed it in the trash.

Sometime after, I obtained funding for my screenplay, and began to shoot my own films. And after that, a few of my films started to win international awards. Recalling earlier times, my wife confessed, ‘I’ve always believed that you only need one gift. Your gift is making films. There are so many people studying computers already, they don’t need an Ang Lee to do that. If you want that golden statue, you have to commit to the dream.’

And today, I’ve finally won that golden statue. I think my own perseverance and my wife’s immeasurable sacrifice have finally met their reward. And I am now more assured than ever before: I must continue making films.

You see, I have this never-ending dream."

(Following Ang Lee’s second Best Directing win at the Academy Awards last night, this beautiful essay resurfaced. This essay was written in 2006 (post-Oscar win).

Text & photo credit: Irene Shih

 

Gina Rio: Fashion’s latest IT Girl…….

Meet the most spoiled girl in Britain

— Gina Rio gets £10,000 a month and lives in The Savoy
— She says she 'could never date someone who is poor'
— Owns 300 designer shoes and has 70 handbags

Damsel in excess ... Gina Rio poses with some of her shoe collection

Mick Gell / Barcroft Media  By HARRIET HERNANDO Dated: 30th December 2012

GINA RIO says words are not enough to prove her parents love her – but a £10,000-a-month allowance and home in a luxury hotel does the trick.

The pampered 23-year-old owns 300 pairs of designer shoes plus 70 top label handbags and spends £600 a month on hairdos and another £1,000 on taxis and chauffeurs.
And, amazingly, the monthly torrent of parental cash is only HALF what she used to get.
After her dad Paul left the family for another woman when Gina was 14, she demanded a fortune from him, as if to compensate.
She was given generous handouts until she was 17, when an allowance of £20,000 A MONTH kicked in. She was also bought designer clothes worth thousands of pounds.

Shopping spree ... Gina Rio shows off her designer togs

Mick Gell / Barcroft Media

Paul, who owns a construction company, splurged £10,000 on her 16th birthday party alone.
But two years ago Gina’s chances of taking the crown as Britain’s most spoiled girl took a knock when she fell out with her dad over his new woman, and he axed her allowance.
Fortunately her mum Teresa — who divorced Paul in 2003 — then stepped in with the £10,000-a-month lifeline.
Today, Gina adds to her fortune by earning £2,000 a month as a personal stylist.
She says: “I know I’m spoiled, but I need my parents to buy me things to prove they love me.
“My dad will buy me anything that I ask for to show me how much he cares.
“I think the most expensive item was a Hermes handbag which cost £20,000.
“When I found out that he’d bought his mistress a Hermes bag, I wanted to have one that was bigger and better.
“I wanted him to prove that he loved me more than her, because she’s horrid.
“He’s my dad at the end of the day and I’m always going to love him, but he’s chosen his new family over me.”

Bag lady ... Gina Rio looks pleased as punch with her purchases

Mick Gell / Barcroft Media

Londoner Gina compares herself to socialite and reality television star Tamara Ecclestone, who is also famously pampered by her dad, Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone.
She says: “I like Tamara — she’s pretty and she seems nice.
“Of course, she wants for nothing — and sometimes I think I’m just as bad as her.
“I’d like to start my own business — something like a beauty spa. I get bored sometimes so I think it would give me something to do. Tamara has her own show, Billion $$ Girl, to keep her occupied.”
Despite her massive monthly income, Gina has not managed to save a penny.
She blows the lot on socialising, clothes and hair and beauty and says: “It’s really bad — I don’t even know how much I spend sometimes.”
Last year Gina, who trained at the Sylvia Young Theatre School in London, blew £50,000 in just two days on clothes and clubbing after borrowing her dad’s credit card. Gina says: “My dad wasn’t happy but he just shrugged it off.”
Her favourite brands include Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Gucci and she eats out every day because she cannot cook. She is currently living at the Savoy hotel in central London while her five-bed house in the capital’s King’s Cross is being refurbished.

Made up ... only Chanel will do for Gina Rio

Mick Gell / Barcroft Media

When it is finished it will have a walk-in wardrobe covering the entire top floor, swimming pool and Jacuzzi and a home cinema.
Gina, who performed in Dizzee Rascal’s Dance Wiv Me music video wearing a swimsuit, says: “My mum bought the house for me ages ago — I reckon it must have cost at least a million.”
Meanwhile, dad Paul is picking up the tab at the Savoy, where top rooms can cost £20,000 a month.
Gina continues: “When my parents divorced, my mum was left with a huge settlement so I’m not worried the money will run out.
“I’ve never had to worry about money, so I don’t have a concept of it. When my dad bought me a fur coat I made him get rid of it because I’m against animal cruelty.
“It cost more than the average car and he accused me of wasting his money. But I’m not interested in how much it cost.”

Car-ching ... Gina's £30k white Mercedes SLK convertible

In Gina’s world an “average” car means her £30,000 white Mercedes SLK convertible, a gift from Mum.
When she goes out, she lets her boyfriend EckSell — a 23-year-old rapper — pick up the tab.
She says: “I love my Cristal champagne and Bellini cocktails.
“I have no idea how much they cost — hundreds maybe.
“When my boyfriend and I go clubbing, he goes crazy. Once he spent £25,000 in one night.
“I couldn’t imagine life without any money. Not being able to pay to have my hair done would be the worst thing ever. I always get what I want — I’ve never gone without. I’ve never caught the Tube or a bus. I would never go on public transport. It would be terrifying.”
And unlike most girls her age, Gina has never set foot in budget High Street clothing store Primark. She says: “I’ve driven past but I don’t think I’d like it.”

Privileged ... Gina Rio as a baby with her mum Teresa

Mick Gell / Barcroft Media

She adds: “I could never date someone who is poor. That would be the worst thing that could ever happen to me.

“When I met my boyfriend he told me he was signed to Warner Bros to impress me, but he wasn’t really.

“Then I found out that his dad owns a brand of sauce sold in Harrods. I was pretty impressed and I knew his family would have a lot of money.

Idol ... Tamara Ecclestone

EMPICS

“When my allowance was cut, I realised I had to cut back too. I used to buy things for the sake of it. Now I only buy clothes that I really like.”

Gina claims her 38-year-old brother Sebastian is even MORE spoiled than she is.
She says: “He is on a different level. Anything he asks for, he gets without hesitation. He’s wasted so much of my parents’ money on his failed business ideas.”

Gina adds: “I want my kids to have a nice life like me. When you’ve got money, everything is a lot easier.

“But I don’t want them growing up and taking money for granted, like I used to do.”
Mum Teresa has no problem with Gina’s excessive spending.
She says: “I tell Gina that I am proud of her and everything she gets she deserves.
"Why have money if you can’t enjoy it?”

Gina's world

(Spending per month)

Allowance: £10,000

Chauffeurs: £1,000

Hair: £600

Designer shoes: 300

Handbags: 70

(Most expensive £20k)

Current home: Savoy hotel

Fave drink: Cristal champagne

Source: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/woman/4718170/gina-rio-britains-most-spoiled-girl.html

Why not check out Gina Rio’s fabulous blog for a bit of umm -escapism from the weather via: http://iamginario.blogspot.co.uk/

 

Fashion et al Hearts Andy Allo…..[Stand Up Cameroon]

Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWmSiYqn9s0

　

First heard the uber beautiful Andy Allo’s fabulous version of Cat Stevens’ ‘Wild World’ way back in February [2012] and promised myself to find out more about this chanteuse…. Well as you all know, I’ve been missing-in-action for sometime, thus its only now I can share Andy Allo’s talents with yaaaaa!!!

What can I say? She’s pretty special and dresses the part.. The following bio comes from Andy’s website:

Every so often, an artist comes along who is indefinable -- an artist who is truly paving her own way with bits of music, sound, vibes and words that speak to her on a deeper level. Such an artist isn't bound by genre and is intent on creating a unique musical expression of herself. Singer/songwriter/guitarist Andy Allo is that artist.

Andy's new solo album, Superconductor, has people calling her a refreshing songbird with a bright funk soul. Even her peers can't stop singing her praises. Says R&B vocalist Ledisi, “After eight bars of her first song, 'People Pleaser', I realized that I had stopped breathing. Andy's songwriting is so refreshing, and vocally, she does just enough gentle gliding through her melodies. Her lyrics say it all, and the musicianship on this project reminds me why I fell in love with music."

Superconductor is indeed “all that” and so much more. The album is the sophomore effort of a young artist who is clearly going to be here for a long time, and the start of something musically fresh. Says Allo, "I created a genre called Alter.Hip.Soul for my first album, UnFresh (2009), whereas the compositions for Superconductor incorporate a variety of layers and a whole lot of Funk."

Andy, who hails from Cameroon, Africa, had her first introduction to a musical instrument through her piano-teaching mother who taught her at age seven. Andy, who is the youngest of five siblings, found her voice, however, by harmonizing with one of her older sisters to songs such as "Sweet Chariot". Says Andy, "Growing up in Cameroon, life was very easy and simple. I was surrounded by music. Every morning there would be records playing, like Dolly Parton and Miriam Makeba; and on road trips, my father and I would listen to Fleetwood Mac."

Andy, who joined Prince's New Power Generation in 2011 as singer/guitarist, co-wrote three of the album's nine tracks with Prince – "Superconductor", "The Calm" and "Long Gone" – who also provided the larger-than-life musical arrangements for all tracks and served as Executive Producer. Says Andy, "Collaborating with Prince was such a blessing. He created an environment that was open to any and all ideas. It was really exciting to bring him an acoustic song, which is how most of my songs began, and to see him turn them into these epic masterpieces.”

Andy wrote the remaining six songs on the record and enlisted the help of some legends to make her sound complete. Legendary saxophonist Maceo Parker and Trombone Shorty play on the reggae-influenced "If I Was a King", and the infectious lead single, "People Pleaser". The result is an album that ranges from expansive, multi-layered songs with a full, big sound and lyrical depth. Andy beautifully balances the strong and fierce side of herself with the vulnerable and romantic throughout the record.

Andy, who was a familiar face on G4's Attack of the Show, and campaigns for Clean & Clear and Kohl’s, met Prince in 2011 through The Africa Channel, and the two bonded instantly about music and life. "We jammed a few times after that first meeting. It was like spending time with an old friend. We joked around from the moment we met. It was such an open space, and we talked about music, religion and life, “ says Andy.

Of the album's title, Andy explains, "I've always been interested in energy and have been studying superconductivity. Whenever someone or something comes into our lives, there is transference of energy. Music is one of those things. It has a way of moving and bringing people together that is universal, and my hope for this record is for it to be a part of that movement.“

"I feel like this is just the beginning of my story," she says. "There’s a lot I want to share with the world.”

"We knew she'd be leading her own revolutions soon," adds Prince. Indeed, and that soon is now.

　

 You can download Andy's latest -SUPERCONDUCTOR on iTunes visit: http://bit.ly/WyLXBy
Amazon: http://amzn.to/Wyymdu
and for my android friends...
Google Play: http://bit.ly/Qb3RHQ

For more info or to keep up with Andy Allo’s fabulous musical happenings visit:
http://www.alloevolution.com/
https://www.facebook.com/andyallo
https://twitter.com/andyallo

Nigeria Rising…. Ndani at Selfridges

Ndani - the Nigerian Fashion Project at Selfridges

— 30 November 2012

Selfridges is excited to launch Ndani, the Nigerian Fashion Project that brings the best of Lagos Fashion and Design Week to London.
Ndani presents an edit of spring/summer 2013 pieces, hand-picked from the runway shows of one of Africa’s foremost fashion showcases.
Ndani offers an edit from five key designers, already well established in Nigeria including Lisa Folawiyo with her label Jewel By Lisa, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi, Eki Orleans, Odio Mimonet and Tiffany Amber. The space also showcases pieces from emerging Nigerian designers - Agu Anumudu and House of Silk, the label set up by Jennifer Adighije.

Upon first glance at the display in store, it is clear that the designers share a passion for intricate prints and rich colour. The collections elevate the traditional patterns of African culture within the realm of designerwear and exquisite craftsmanship. Despite this strong cohesion, each Ndani designer at Selfridges has a wholly unique style – an integral feature in the Nigerian couture code.
Ndani, the Nigerian Fashion Project at Selfridges runs from 1 December until January on 2 at Selfridges London.
From yellow cabs with a difference to some of the world’s top fashion journalists on the front row, see some snapshots of our buyer’s trip to Lagos Fashion Week SS13.




Source: http://style.selfridges.com/whats-in/ndani-nigerian-fashion-project-selfridges

Why I love Kanye West….

Part One


Part Two


Why I love Kanye West?? Because Mr West is elegant inside and out, has incredible style, is multi layered and lives way outside the S*@# box created for the young black male rappers...  

A N***GER Cake in 2012, -is this for real people of Sweden???

Culture Minister Lena Adelsohn Liljeroth (right) opened a party last Saturday by slicing a piece of said cake....




I’m uber busy right now, -sooo I can’t discuss this shocking issue -as fully as I’d like… but still, I just had to have my say -and voice my outrage at this blatant disregard/lack of respect for the black women… This cake makes me sick to my .....
stomach

I’m beyond shocked ….how can this happen in Sweden -a mostly civilised country -and in 2012?

How can Lena Adelsohn Liljeroth, Swedish minister of culture and a self proclaimed ‘Anti Racist’ tsar - do this??? Ok so she didn’t make the cake and it might not have been her idea -but surly she could of refused to cut and eat said cake -or even better, -have nothing to do with it or the event -by walking out???

Its been sometime since I felt sooo strongly about ’any’ issue -but this is repulsive …-utterly abhorrent and I’m calling on the Swedish government to get rid of this …woman; -she has as far as I’m concerned, single-handedly, destroyed the perception of the ‘liberal’ educated, peaceful Swede -overnight…

You can more about this shocking story read at: http://www.friatider.se/shocking-photos-shows-swedish-minister-of-culture-celebrating-with-niger-cake






***OMGoodness I’ve just watched the above clip and the head -appears to be that of a real human being -who cries out whenever someone cuts a piece of cake (mainly from the genital area). This is goes beyond bad taste!!! Its blatantly racist and disappointing. They need to apologise for this… its disgusting..


P.s ….Apparently the human head belongs to a ’black artist’ called Makode Linde -can you imagine??? Said artist was -according to his reps highlighting the plight of African women forced in female circumcision -really??? Is this the only way he could get this ’serious’ message across?  -Really?? Honestly, I’m not buying it -the act was disgusting and perverted…and the artist needs help.

Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCK6zvWEN_Q&feature=player_embedded

Fashion et al Hearts Coco & Breezy

Sorry for the lack of postings folks…but life took over -hopefully I’m back -now!!! Anyway…I’ve loved eyewear and accessory designing guru twins du jour since I stumbled across their collection early last year… A fabulous cross between Tina Turner’s ‘Welcome to the Thunderdome’ look and Madonna’s ‘Like a Virgin’ verve -Coco & Breezy are club-kid-punk-fresh. From the bleach blonde eyebrows and green hair to their love of leather, studs and of course their shades -their look is all their own and Fashion et al is predicting world domination. To check out their latest eyewear collection (Gaga and yummy mummy Beyonce are fans) called ‘Rainy Days’ and fronted by fashion et al favourite model, Diandra Forrest visit: http://www.cocoandbreezy.com/
https://www.facebook.com/cocoandbreezy
http://cocoandbreezy.tumblr.com/

Whitney Houston …… (What is this grief that I'm feeling?)……..

I Look to You: Sung by Whitney Houston

As I lay me down,
heaven hear me now.
I'm lost without a cause
after giving it my all.

Winter storms have come
and darkened my sun.
After all that I've been through
Who on earth can I turn to?

I look to you.
I look to you.
After all my strength is gone,
in you I can be strong
I look to you.
I look to you.
And when melodies are gone,
in you I hear a song.
I look to you.

About to lose my breathe,
there's no more fighting left,
Sinking to rise no more,
searching for that open door.

And every road that I've taken
lead to my regret.
And I don't know if I'm going to make it.
Nothing to do but lift my head


I look to you.
I look to you.
After all my strength is gone,
in you I can be strong
I look to you.
I look to you.
And when melodies are gone,
in you I hear a song.
I look to you.

My levees are broken
My walls have come
tumbling down on me

The rain is falling.
Defeat is calling.
I need you to set me free.

Take me far away from the battle.
I need you.
Shine on me.


I look to you.
I look to you.
After all my strength is gone,
in you I can be strong
I look to you.
I look to you.
And when melodies are gone,
in you I hear a song.
I look to you.

Paulina Opoku-Gyimah says: Fashion et al’s thoughts and prayers go out to Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown’s daughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown’s at this incredibly sad time!!! Fashion et al prays life in her every being/situation, peace like a river and God’s unchanging love into her present and future. We place Bobbi Kristina Brown into the palms of Gods hand -knowing that she will never perish, or be snatched from there -and that no weapon formed against her -shall prosper [in the mighty name of Jesus] Amen!!!!

http://twitter.com/#!/REALbkBrown/status/112518506100178944

The Most Coveted Luxury Gifts in the World 2011... By Paulina Opoku-Gyimah…..

I grew up with my mother on my back -going on and on about TIME! I was told over and over again about how precious it was, that I-must-pick-up-my-life and work with TIME!! I was constantly told not to squander it and to use it well etc etc -and its only NOW that I truly appreciate and understand what she was going on about!!!…Plus as I’ve gotten older, -like most Sybarites, I’ve found out that TIME -is the ultimate -luxury item, but how to bottle it -and make a killing? Thus the nearest anyone can get to having a monopoly on TIME is to buy convenience or services that enable you to have more TIME -like private jets and concierge services etc!! So whilst my ultimate most coveted gift will always be TIME, the other yummy stuff on this list -are non too shabby -either!! Some are reasonable -some are not, but all are scrummy -and coveted by yours truly and make for the most fabulous gifts ideas -ever… Enjoy xx



The Most Coveted Luxury Gifts in the World 2011....

1) A Penthouse in the KEMPINSKI GOLD COAST HOTEL GHANA -* £POA (I have no idea but do contact the Hempenski group)..










Hip, Hip hooray the Hempenski Gold Coast Hotel in Accra will open early 2013 and I can’t wait! I’ve celebrated many hotels on Ghana Rising but nothing in my books can beat the Hempenski Gold Coast Hotel in Accra. I’ve had the privilege of talking to their PR lady and its going to be absolutely fabulous.

From the luxe interiors, via its uber thread count crisp white Egyptian cotton bed sheets to its state-of-the-arts spa and gym, -this much anticipated home-from-home is about to add the icing to Accra’s burgeoning luxurious cake. Apart from coveting one of its numerous commercial outlets, I really want …no, I really need one of its scrumptious penthouses -which boasts fabulous views across Accra…. yummy!!! For more information about the Hempenski Gold Coast Hotel in Accra, Ghana visit: http://www.kempinski.com/en/About%20Kempinski/New%20Hotels/Pages/Africa.aspx


2) A sample of the soon to launch Sankofa Make-up range by Bridget Addow --* £POA (Price? You need to email Bridget)

(*A model backstage at the Derek Lam Fall 2011 Fashion Show/Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week)

Ghana born British jewellery designer Bridget Addow is a sweetheart and an inspiration to me. I’ve had the pleasure of talking to Bridget Addow, -a beautiful young mother of four; a fantastic business woman, she makes and sells the most delectable jewellery, made using African semi-precious stones and crystals -and she is launching her own make-up range next year (yippee). Uber Chic, full of wisdom, ideas and incredibly positive -I truly can’t wait for the launch of the Sankofa Make-up range by Bridget Addow. Oh….as this is my list -and its all about the most coveted gifts -ever, the idea is that I get a sample now before this much anticipated make-up brand -launches (laughter).. For more information visit: http://sankofabeauty.com/ -where you can also purchase her beautiful jewellery.


3) A subscription to the soon to launch Black Star magazine ….….*£POA.




Lessons learned when doing pioneering things are lessons well learnt -and these lessons must never be wasted!!. Thus this glossy will not only be relevant, informative and a must read; -it will be a celebration of: fashion, beauty, culture and Ghana. For more information email: http://www.blogger.com/info@blackstarmagazine.co.uk


4) For The Ladies: Make-up and hair done by Claire De-Graft -* £POA (Price? I have no idea if this is a reality or not, but cross your fingers and contact Claire)….


In my head I see myself having my make-up done by the ever beautiful Claire De-Graft before a fabulous night out -and I’m working on making it a reality. The crème-de-la-crème of the make-up industry, Ms De-Graft is at the very top of her game and contributes to glossies including: Harpers Bazaar, You, Pride and Arise magazine. She has also worked her magic on the likes of: Toni Braxton, Ronnie Wood, Claudia Winkleman and many more. I’ve had the pleasure of talking to Claire De-Graft and she’s a sweetheart: For more information about Claire De-Graft please visit: http://www.clairedegraft.com/


5) A Home designed and built by Joe Osae-Addo in Accra.. -* £POA (Price? I have no idea, I’ve yet to locate his company’s website!)….


(*Joe Osae-Addo'S home in Accra)

After feasting my eyes on world renown Ghanaian architect, Joe Osae-Addo’s Accra home with its uber serene interiors, all white spaces and lovely wooden floors and chrome kitchen -I just had to have one! I don’t know whether Joe Osae-Addo works on private interiors but I do know -he works on big project around the world! Whatever, on my list -is comes in at number five -and its what I want….now!!!


6) A Years Membership to Accra Polo Club…. Prices: Entrance fee- GHc 2000 & Membership -GHc 300 for singles and GHc 500 for a family..


Honestly…I’m not a horsy person but I love the buzz and glamour of Accra Polo Club and would love a years family membership for my son and I.


There’s so much going on at Accra’s premier polo club. From riding lessons to polo games, the season is from September to April, with local and international matches and chukkas at the weekend, Accra Polo Club offers several amenities throughout the week including a world-class Italian restaurant, Il Cavaliere Pazzo, a fully equipped squash court and bar. Please note that even though access to the club is by membership only, with endorsements sort from existing members and committee, concessions can be made for those wanting riding lessons only. The entrance fee is GHc 2000, with yearly Membership -GHc 300 for singles and GHc 500 for a family. Riding Lessons start from GHc 10.00 per hour. For more information email: accrapoloclub@yahoo.com or call: 0244 358 922

Address:
Accra Polo Club
North end of Airport Bypass Road, Accra, Ghana.


7) Cioccolatina Pure Unrefined Sheabutter (Whipped) by Akua Wood - £2.80 (plus p&p)…




When one thinks of cult beauty products; Elizabeth Arden’s Eight Hour Cream, Maybelline’s Great Lash Blackest Black Mascara, Dr. Hauschka Rose Day Cream, Chanel No.5 Eau De Parfum, Chanel Rouge Noir Nail Polish, Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula, Johnson's Baby Oil and newly improved upon favourites like: Vaseline’s Limited Edition Lip Therapy Crème Brûlée and YSL’s Touche Eclat’s darker shades -come to mind -right?

Well Cioccolatina Pure Unrefined Sheabutter (Whipped) from Akua Wood’s Shea Butter Cottage -has just joined this exclusive list. Environmentally sound, gentle and kind, free from artificial colouring and synthetic fragrances -Cioccolatina Pure Unrefined Sheabutter is a must-have. For more information visit: http://www.cioccolatina.co.uk/  Also check out: http://www.akuawood.co.uk/


8) For Men: A make-over by uber stylist, Abena Ofei… -* £POA (Price? I have no idea if this is even possible, but cross your fingers contact Abena)….


For the man who has it all or Ghana’s new oil rich, why not get one of the worlds best fashion stylists, Abena Ofei, who specialises in styling men and has styled the likes of Reggie Yates, contributed to publications including: I-D, Interview, Men's Health, Sport & Style Australia and done ad campaigns for the likes of: Virgin, EMI, Fenchurch, River lsland, D.S. Dundee and Bench -to help you make an entrance? . For more information about Abena Ofei visit: http://www.abenaofei.com/



9) Book: Kofi and His Magic by Maya Angelou -Price: From £31.95 from Amazon.com



I’m a real sucker for books with beautiful African illustrations, especially if the country in question is Ghana. Kofi and his magic by Maya Angelou with beautiful illustrations by Margaret Courtney-Clarke; is a lovely tale about the wondrous life of a young Ashanti boy who lives in the West African village of Bonwire in Ghana. If you’re thinking of buying this one for me, do buy an extra copy as my Jojo also wants a copy -and I refuse to have chocolate finger prints on mine!!!! Visit: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Kofi-His-Magic-Maya-Angelou/dp/0517704536


10) A batch of yummy cupcakes in a jar from Gillian Boateng’s G-Deserts -Prices start from £2.00 each (plus P&P)...





“Let Them Eat Cake” ….No party, hot event or goody bag is complete without one of Gillian Boateng’s homemade cupcakes in a Jar. Made using only natural ingredients and beautifully packaged in a charming clear jar with a pretty bow -G-Deserts’ cupcakes are the best. I’m a real fan of her luxe ‘Strawbubbly’, made from a light, moist champagne flavoured sponge, complimented with strawberry icing -its beyond delicious…. Prices start from £2.00 (plus P&P). For more information or to order the above yummy treats visit: http://www.gdesserts.com/


11) A Hope & Unity Silver Necklace by jeweller Alex Akuamoah for Della…Price: $40.00




Handmade by village jeweller Alex Akuamoah, every piece is individually crafted from Sterling Silver. The above Adinkra Symbol is "Nyame Biribi Woo Soro" and its meaning is "Hope & Unity" and measures approximately 1" long, 3/4" wide and comes on a 16" sterling silver chain. I wonder if he makes it in gold? Visit http://shop.dellala.com/ for more information.



12) Bespoke Kente Cloth…. *£POA (You’ll need to get hold of Mr Eric Kwanteng)…...


Have you ever googled, ‘I want to buy bespoke Kente cloth in/from Ghana? No? Well if you do… -it will come back void!! And I can’t believe it!!! I can’t believe that nobody in Ghana has written about this? Don’t tell me that the good people of Ghana are under the impression that only the Asantehene, -Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II and his beautiful wife, Lady Julia Osei Tutu can access this very doable service?

Thankfully via Dr. Carol Ventura’s website at: http://iweb.tntech.edu/cventura/default.htm she notes a man called Eric Kwanteng (telephone 020 8234012), who prepares a warp that’s, “long enough to produce all the strips for one cloth“ in Bonwire. Eric Kwanteng is a members of The Good Parent Kente Company (PO Box 17, Bonwire - Ejisu, Ashanti, Ghana, West Africa). Credit: http://iweb.tntech.edu/cventura/Kente.htm -I’m thinking…. I want my Kente cloth simple and chic -made using two of my favourite colour combinations -turquoise and gold -lovely…But honestly, you’re going to have to wait for Black Star magazine to launch -for a more thorough research…



13) A night of live music by William Chapman Nyaho.. **£POA (Price …me? Honey I haven’t the foggiest -be bold and try him…)

When I think of throwing the perfect party/event, -thoughts of: fragrant gardenias & crisp white roses, gold bamboo banquet chairs, scented candles, crisp white Egyptian cotton table-clothes, crisp white porcelain crockery, antique silverware and elegant name settings come after ……sweet music by Ghanaian-American concert pianist, William Chapman Nyaho!! I don’t know what its takes to secure an elegant night or day of Mr Nyaho’s moving and serene music but I’m willing to try. “On his CD, SENKU, Piano Music by Composers of African Descent, he performs works by composers from Africa, the Caribbean, England and the United States. He is the editor of Piano music of Africa and the African diaspora (New York : Oxford University Press, 2007. 2 volumes).” For more information visit: http://www.nyaho.com/



14) Interior design by Paulina Opoku-Gyimah….*£POA (I tend to not to get out of bed unless there’s a big budget involved…but you never know…..try me!)





















‘I am a very stylish girl’… (laughter) and some of you know this and have asked about my interior design work etc!! Truth-be-told….I’m a real lover of the eclectic, for example; somethings -old, somethings -new, different textures like a cashmere blankets and silk cushions, a piece of mouth watering art, some commissioned must-haves like: an Adinkra inspired silk wallpaper, reupholstered chairs and sofas in commissioned Kente clothes etc -vintage bits & bobs, antiques chandeliers and working with real artisans in Ghana to achieve this look, and unless you come loaded with a big budget -my juices don’t flow!

I work sporadically for a friend when she’s about to sell her properties (and as she has a storage full of stuff and some of my bits it works) -but in all honesty -I would love to work on THE RIGHT PROJECT in Ghana (only -right now)…

I’ve been approached to do a restaurant and a small hotel in the past and when I suggested ideas -I found out very quickly that my idea of quality and the aforementioned parties idea of quality -differed greatly.. I do not do MDF furniture or get out of bed for a project that I will…. be out-of-pocket for!!

The right project means just that -the right project….-thus, if you have some really fabulous ideas or want to introduce some much needed  pizzazz  into your Ghana based property/venue/gallery/shop or are in desperate need of direction & ideas (it will cost yaaa) for you or a loved one …-try me, but only if you have the budget for a custom-made rug by Henzel….xx

***(The above photographs are my property and show some of my interior work -and must not be used by anyone without crediting me -thanks)…


15) A front row seat at the Ghana Fashion & Design Show next year….….*£POA (If you are press, a sponsor, a buyer or an A-List celebrity -there’s real possibility -if not, I don’t really know -but try them -anyway)....


Roll on October 2012 for one of the biggest events in the Ghanaian fashion industry diary, Ghana Fashion & Design Week (GFDW)… Yep real fashion insiders with real experience are putting Ghana on the map with a professional ‘Fashion Week’ and I can’t wait -but….. are you hot enough to sit in the front-row?? For more information about Ghana Fashion & Design Week visit: http://www.ghanafashiondesignweek.com/



16) A bottle of Michael Boadi’s White Gardenia Petal Eau de Parfum 100 ml for women…. Price: £100.00



With a growing celebrity fan base including the Duchess of Cambridge, she wore it on her wedding day and the ever beautiful, first lady of America -Mrs. Michelle Obama; Michael Boadi’s White Gardenia Petal Eau de Parfum 100 ml for women from his Illuminum Perfumes range is a tour de force -and I want one for Christ Birthday -nowwWW!! For more information visit: http://www.illuminumperfumelounge.com/



17) A Bespoke ‘Taste of Ghana’ Cookery Lesson from the Akhaya team ….Price: Private courses start from £120 for one person…






I don’t know whether I should confess this …but I’m rubbish at cooking and would love to master the delicious cuisines of my beloved Ghana. Thankfully the good people at Akhaya, the UK’s first cookery school dedicated to African cookery offer a host of courses to suit all African palates; covering everything from dishes from North African Tagines to Ghanaian Tatale and South African Bobotie to West African Benachin; all made using authentic and fresh ingredients. Current classes on offer include ‘A Taste of Nigeria’, ‘A Taste of Ghana’ and ‘Spicing up Seafood’ which features recipes from Morocco, Tanzania, Ghana and Congo. All skill levels are welcome and bespoke classes are available making it ideal for getting together with friends or sharing some couple time and ideal as a gift for budding chefs. To book or discuss a bespoke cookery course with team Akhaya visit: http://www.akhaya.com/



18) A bespoke wardrobe by Ajepomaa Mensah of ajePomaa Design Gallery -* £POA








Ajepomaa Mensah of ajePomaa Design Gallery is absolutely fabulous and the best advert for her exquisite designs. In a country full of seamstresses, many in Ghana call themselves fashion designers but this lady is the real deal. Prepared to travel the globe in search of the best textiles, inspired by her travel and love of art -Ajepomaa Mensah’s designs are rich, well made and beautifully lined pieces that fit the wearer like a glove. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Ms Mensah in person and she doesn’t disappoint. Wearing one of her nipped-in-at-the-waist Jackie O type jacket, I feel in love with it instantly and I want one -right now! For a consultation please email Ajepomaa Mensah at: ajepomaagallery@gmail.com or call her on (+233) 265645284

For more info about ajePomaa Design Gallery visit:
https://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=120127868045392#!/ajePomaaDesignGallery?sk=info



19) A piece of art by Joseph Ghattaba Price: Drumming By Joseph Ghattaba cost Euro 1000 / $ 1302.00 From: http://www.artmajeur.com/



In my head I’m about to open an art gallery in Accra’s soon-to-be hottest venue, the Hempenski Hotel Ghana -in one of its uber coveted commercial outlets (I’m giving you ideas here people) -and I have many Ghanaian artists on my list including: world renown Ghanaian sculptor, El Anatsui (I love, love his work), and contemporary Ghanaian artists like: Wiz Kudowor, James Cudjoe, Ben Agbee and many others…but at the top of this yummy list -is any piece by fabulous sculptor Joseph Ghattaba, affectionately known as Joe Big Big!! Not only are his bold sculptures uber collectable -or fabulous conversation pieces but they’ll also add pizzazz to any setting. To purchase the above sculpture visit: http://www.artmajeur.com/



20) Celebrity Guest Appearance *£POA (Price..? I have no idea but mercifully many of Ghana’s dazzling celebrities now have agents -so get googling)……
Kwaw Kese

A friend of mine has a real thing for Ghanaian actor John Dumelo -and watches his films regularly even though she doesn’t like African movies! And its got me thinking …not that I want or not want actor John Dumelo to make a guest appearance at my birthday bash -you hear (because he’s lovely but I’m more into what’s been described as bad boys -I don’t know why) Nope…, If you want to surprise me with a celebrity guest appearance at my birthday party -say, -you’ll need to head in the direct of Ghana based musicians like -Okomfo Kwadee!!! Mr Kwadee can sing, ‘Wotaataame’ whilst climbing out of my birthday cake -if you know what I mean? Also, I likeeeee Kwaw Kese! I saw him in his black tie garb collecting a hand full of awards at one of the Ghana Music Awards ceremonies and decided -there and then that he must come dressed ..just like that…..(laughter), the wonderful Atongo Zimba and Scizo of ‘Rain Rain’ fame..-how gorgeous is he? For personas based outside of Ghana -its pretty easy!!! My top two are: footballer Mario Balotelli and politician Adam Afriyie -and if its all toooo Ghanaian for ya…Hollywood actor, Benicio Del Toro -will do. Note, I’m not a selfish person -so I’m thinking….for that special men in your life -why not book the likes of, actresses Nadia Buari and new comer, Helen Asante -men love them..

*£POA -Price on Application