Cece & Melinda with Raymi Productions

Whip Into Shape at FFC with us in June!

admin — Fri, 11 May 2012 14:37:58 +0000

Are you up for the challenge??

Join us in the month of June at the Gold Coast Fitness Formula Club (FFC) for a four week boot camp on Mondays mornings and Wednesday evenings located at 1030 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60610.

The weather will be warm soon enough and this is the perfect opportunity to be ready for the beach! Let Lauren Herzog whip you into shape with us! We’ve both had the opportunity to take a training session with her before and she is tough and will make sure you see results and meet your goals!!! Join in if you dare…

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Enter for a chance to win a $1500 Shopping Spree with Zagat!

admin — Wed, 02 May 2012 17:31:29 +0000

Attention Chicago Shopping & Food lovers:

Review Chicago stores, boutiques and gourmet food shops!

Share your opinions of Chicago stores, boutiques and gourmet food shops
with Zagat for chance to win a $1500 Shopping Spree at 900 North Michigan
Shops!

Click HERE to enter the contest now!

Vote in the Zagat Chicago Shopping & Food Lovers! Click HERE to take the Survey now!

You must enter by May 10th!

Hot Hair Trends For Spring by Mafia Hairdresser!

admin — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:50:17 +0000

If you fan through magazine after magazine you will get many different
answers to what is going to be Spring 2012’s beauty trends but no one is
going to hit it right on mark this year as I will because I did your
“flipping” homework for you.

Let me tell you that the beauty trends for spring are heavily influenced by our sluggish U.S. economy. Much like the depression era’s influence on fashion which produced drawn on seams on legs and red lips, we are seeing “do it yourself” chic which translates to professional stylists like me purposefully cutting uneven bangs or continuing the dark-root + light ends balayage craze right into summer. Balayage is a technique which creates a natural highlight effect on any hair type and I like to see it on medium to long lengths. Alicia and Edwin are your go-to stylists for this technique if you are going to Joseph Michael’s Salon & Spa and I also love Maxines in Chicago because they have their own Balayage Team and have a great reputation with this technique.

The must have color for brunettes will be blonde! Well, not super blonde-think J.Lo blonde, which is really a lightest-brown with blonde highlights. I just took Cece from her natural black-brown to what I call “Cece Blonde.” I highlighted all of her hair to achieve a warm buttery deep blonde; as well as lifted every part of her hair (which was processing in foils) to a dark warm camel color. These results can be lovely to anyone with gold undertones to the skin and much lighter than most brunettes think they could have ever achieved before! You have to have a great colorist who knows what they are doing to get Cece Blonde–or you might end up looking a little too orange.

And guess who else will be going blonde this spring: The Redheads! Tired of the Mad Men red phase? So are my clients. You are going to see many red heads going more strawberry and lighter to match the paler, less vibrant, color trends in clothes for spring. Please do not try Lindsay Lohan blonde if you are a natural redhead. Do I really have to tell you why? Okay, I will: Because the lack of warmth in too-blonde vs. a warm blonde can make you look older–and trashy. (But I will take your money every month to do your re-growth if you insist.)

Another hair trend that might have been influenced by economy is the swipes
of color you are seeing hairdressers apply to their young and not-so-young
clients. No more feathers! They were expensive and short lived. If you want
a flash of color, go all the way and let us put a blue streak or pink
streak in your hair that is more permanent. Don’t be a commitment-phobe
like, (dare I say it?) us men!

Extensions will always be in if you can afford them. Alex Lopez with the Glam Makeup Studio and Extensions at 1518 N Ashland Ave 773.610.9623 did Cece’s extensions which look amazing! The color was matched perfectly using real hair that was clamped onto her hair. They are not heavy and are not any additional maintenance than having long hair and last for months!

And long hair is the way to go this spring, with or without bangs. But one spring trend that you
will see is messy updos and ponytails and you might not have the length to do so. It’s time to get a pony tail extension. Go to Sally’s Beauty Supply or Threads and Heads on Milwaukee Ave. They will fix you up with an inexpensive match-to-your-hair pony that you can add-on for day or night pony and your stylist can play with you to show you how to make up-do magic.

Oh yes. What about the blondes? Girls, you have always been in and this
spring is no exception. But take those Housewives of Orange County brunette
streak out of your hair. They may have looked good in the 90s and on HD
television and on newscasters, but it is over. And, I know you are not
going to love me for this one: but you have to stop bleaching up your hair
to be ashy. I know you’ve been afraid to have some warmth on your head
(because you feel that is brassy) but that’s what’s in for spring. A golden
shiny warm blonde looks healthy and will bring out the rosiness in all skin
tones.

Jon-David is a Master Stylist at Joseph Michael’s Salon & Spa and the author of the novels, Mafia Hairdresser and the sequel, The GlowStick Gods. Look for his upcoming books, Social Media for Salons & Spas & the final book in his fiction series, Murder There’s An App For That.

Follow Jon-David @mafiahairdreser

Are you ready for Spring fashion? 3 pieces you MUST keep!

admin — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 17:35:40 +0000

In the fashion world, Spring started months ago. Stores have already put out their Spring collections, in with the new, out with the old! Right? Not exactly. There are some key clothing pieces from your winter wardrobe that you must introduce to your Spring wardrobe! Smart fashion at it’s finest.

First article of clothing? The wide pant. This is a favorite winter items. Cute, fun, and casual. Although heavy fabrics shouldn’t be worn in the Spring, lightweight fabrics or denim can definitely be transitioned into Spring fashion. Put away those boots and pair your wide pant with cute wedges or colorful high heels. You can also lighten up pants with a darker fabric by wearing a light colored top.

A second must save from your winter wardrobe is your tuxedo jacket. This jacket is a classic and can be paired with a set of pearls or a set of colorful bangles to bring out the Spring feel. You can wear this jacket with anything- from dresses to shorts!

Third. Your scarves. Now, we’re not talking about the scarf you wear when it is 20 degrees below zero and you are going to the store to get milk, but we’re talking about the lightweight, patterned scarf you may own, or the solid color pashmina scarf you have! Ladies, these scarves can be worn year round, especially in the spring. Pair that scarf with a spring jacket or a long spring maxi dress. The scarf will give you some warmth (spring in Chicago can still be chilly!) and it will also give you another chance to add color to your outfit!

Now that you have a few pieces you know you can save- start cleaning out your winter wardrobe and start to transition your closet to your spring must haves. One last thing to note: make sure to keep all of your classic items. This includes your white t-shirts, timeless shirts and skirts, and your favorite cardigans. And… If you haven’t worn it in several months… DONATE IT! The clutter won’t help anyone and it will stand in the way of the fabulous spring outfits you have hanging in your closet ready to be worn!

Join #CHIchat on Twitter every Wednesday at 11am (CST)

admin — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 19:50:58 +0000

Are you interested in discussing the BEST Chicago has to offer in food, fashion, shopping, and events? Want to participate in Chicago’s premier Twitter chat? You have come to the right place! We host #CHIchat every Wednesday from 11am-12pm CST. All you have to do is follow the #CHIchat hashtag on your Twitter or click on our chat room link: http://tweetchat.com/room/chichat.

Not familiar with Twitter chats? A Twitter chat is an online conversation held at a pre-arranged time between Twitter users. All of the chat participants use the same Twitter hashtag (ex: #CHIchat) in order to identify the discussion. To participate in our weekly #CHIchat on Wednesdays at 11am CST all you have to do is follow the #CHIchat hashtag on Twitter or if you’re on your computer you can follow the chat room link at: http://tweetchat.com/room/chichat. We ask Chicago-related questions for everyone to participate by answering and commenting. Questions are asked by using(Q1:___) and participants respond with “A1″ and then their answer. It’s that simple! Twitter is an incredible social media platform constantly expanding and growing. Joining the Twitter network can be extremely valuable to anyone to grow your business, to find deals, etc. #CHIchat has become extremely valuable to the Chicago social media community! If you’re not on Twitter just sign up and start tweeting! If you are a Twitter pro, we know you know what to do and can’t wait to have you join us every Wednesday!

Want to know how the last #CHIchat went and what was discussed? Check out our #CHIchat pinterest boards at http://pinterest.com/cecemelinda/. Each week we recap our chats on Pintrest so that you are always in the know!

Are you interested in being a co-host for our next #CHIchat? Email Melinda at melinda@raymiproductions.com for more information!

The Oscars Viewing Party – How will you dress?

admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 15:56:44 +0000

Ladies. THE gown event of the year is here! The Oscars. The big question is, no matter where you plan on celebrating this star-studded event, what will YOU be wearing? If you are attending our fabulous Oscars party at The Drake or plan on making an appearance at an Oscars party of your own, you will definitely need a beautiful gown.

Here are some tips at choosing the right gown for you!

Do you already have a dress in mind: Take that dress out of the closet! This is the perfect time to wear that special dress you have been saving. If you think your dress needs a little fashion “boost” don’t be afraid to have sequins or beading added. Also- adding a faux fur to your ensemble can help cover up outdated sleeves or an out of fashion neckline.

Go for Glam: Ladies, this is the Oscars! The more glam the better. Look for a floor length evening gown that is silky, shiny, and/or sequined. Accessorizing is key. Wear shiny jewels. You can match your necklace and your earrings to unify your look. If you are on a budget: Have you ever heard of Rent The Runway? Avoid spending hundreds of dollars on a jaw dropping dress and rent one! This is a wonderful option to check out!

One word. Shoes: Elegant footwear is key. This is the time to pull out those over-extravagant (wait- is there such a thing?) heels out of your closet. If you really want to unify your ensemble, make a point to match your heels with your handbag.

As celebrity stylist Robert Verdi says, “My advice is always go full-tiltboogie. If you’re going to an Oscar Party, go as if you’re going to the Oscars.”

What will you wear? We look forward to finding out on Sunday, February 26th at the legendary Drake Hotel. There are still tables available, secure your table today! CLICK HERE for details!

teeth ~ NO DENTURES Grand Opening Party!

admin — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:09:39 +0000

We are so proud to announce our good friend Dr. Irfan Acha’s new practice; teeth ~ NO DENTURES Dental Implant Center & General and Aesthetic Dentistry is now open and serving the Chicago area residents.

Dr. Irfan Atcha specializes in dental implants. Previously, dental implant procedures required patients to travel to multiple dentists and surgeons. At teeth ~ NO DENTURES Dental Implant Center patients get a seamless experience at their location. They are fully equipped to perform every step of the procedure, including constructing of new permanent teeth at the on-site dental lab.

The facility is designed to provide specialty dental implant and reconstructive services along with comprehensive Adult dentistry services for residents of Chicago. The Launch Party (Grand Opening) celebration is set for Friday January 27, 2012 from 6-9:30PM and we would love for you to join us to meet Dr. Irfan Atcha and his team! RSVP Mandatory. Please click on the link to RSVP! http://raymiproductions.wufoo.com/forms/teeth-no-dentures-grand-opening-pary/

teeth~ NO DENTURES Dental Implant Center and Adult Dentistry services is located at 747 N. LaSalle Chicago, IL 60654. It is on the corner of LaSalle and Chicago Ave. $10 Valet parking will be available next door at Cafe Iberico.

Come to enjoy cocktails and appetizers, see the brand new facility, meet Dr. Irfan Atcha and his team and toast to local Chicago businesses supporting one another!

Hope to see you there!

Chicago’s Intimate Bridal Affair- Will you dare to attend?

admin — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:04:38 +0000

Ladies- are you looking for a fun bridal event to attend with your girlfriends? We have found the bridal event of the season!

On January 25th, Glitz Event Design will host the 1st Annual An Intimate Bridal Affair at Hotel Palomar Chicago. This event is a one-of-a-kind bridal experience offering wedding vendors from a variety of cultural backgrounds. They will showcase the latest in wedding music, floral, invitations, stationary, hair, makeup, and more from Chicago’s top wedding professionals!

Some must-see vendors include:

Art of Imagination, The Special Events Co, The Wishing Well, FloristVisage, JolWilliams-Sonoma, Hangers Couture, Alliance Bakery, BomBon Cake Gallery, Katherine-Anne Confections, Cacao Sweets & Treats and more!
In addition, professional wedding photographers will be in attendance, including: Doug McGoldrick Weddings, Andre LaCour, Bellissima Photography, Boudoir Photographer and Megan Drane of Fiery Nights Boudoir. Plus don’t miss high end wedding fashion by Jenny Yoo and Dame Couture!

To check out the complete list of the exhibitors you can visit: http://www.intimatebridalaffair.com/chicago1.html
There will also be a complimentary wine tasting, henna tattoos and a live belly dance performance to compliment the Moroccan Theme of the event! Who doesn’t like wine and a show? Don’t miss this one time chance to attend the bridal event of the season!

Admission is $35.00 (for brides) and includes a luxury gift bag, great food and drinks, access to Chicago’s best wedding planners, and admission to the Complimentary “after-party” at Public House!

You can purchase tickets at: http://intimatebridalaffair.eventbrite.com/ – Don’t forget to enter PROMO CODE GLITZ to receive $10 off your ticket! Valet Parking is available.

Hope to see you there!

Five Peruvian Foods to Try Today

admin — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 22:20:54 +0000

The delicious dishes of Peru are a must-try for those looking to expand their culinary horizons. Most Peruvian dishes feature Latin American staples with influences from Spain, China, Japan, West Africa and even Italy. Peru native Cece Gonzales has shared her five favorite Peruvian dishes for you to try!

Papa a la Huancaina

Although this popular dish is named after the city of Huancayo (Papa a la Huancaina” translates to “Huancayo-style Potatoes” in English), it has become a staple throughout all of Peru. This delicious dish features boiled yellow potatoes served with a spicy, creamy cheese sauce called “Salsa a la Huancaina” on top. Typically served as an appetizer or side dish (akin to American potato salad), Papa a la Huancaina is served chilled and garnished with lettuce, hard-boiled egg quarters, olives and corn kernels.

Ceviche de Mariscos

Ceviche is a popular seafood dish throughout many Latin American countries, namely in coastal areas where seafood is caught fresh. A variety of seafood (including fish, squid, shrimp, crab, etc.) is marinated fresh and raw in citrus juices and is seasoned and spiced with chili peppers, cilantro and onion. Corn, sweet potato and onion slices are traditional garnishes for this flavorful dish. If you’re a seafood lover, Ceviche de Mariscos is sure to please your palate!

Arroz con Mariscos

This Peruvian staple features a variety of seafood (mussles, fish, shrimp, etc.) served alongside seasoned rice. Tumeric, yellow onion, garlic paste, oregano and a sprinkling of paprika all add flavor to this popular Peruvian seafood dish.

Lomo Saltado

This traditional (and very popular!) Peruvian dish actually has Asian influences! Lomo Saltado features strips of sirloin steak marinated in soy sauce, vinegar and a variety of spices. This dish is accompanied by stir-fried vegetables (typically onions and tomato) and parsley and served on white rice with homemade fried potato wedges. Lomo Saltado is the perfect Peruvian food for even the most finicky eater to try!

Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo (or “chicken and rice”) is one of the most popular dishes throughout Latin America, the Caribbean and Spain – and for good reason – it’s savory, delicious and simple to make. Arroz con Pollo is typically made in one large pot and features a variety of flavorful ingredients such a cilantro, garlic, black pepper, onions, bell peppers and a splash of white wine and citrus juice. If you’re looking to try your hand at Peruvian cooking, Arroz con Pollo is the perfect dish to start with!

If you’re looking to try Peruvian food for yourself and would like a restaurant recommendation, tweet us at @CeceMelinda and we’d be happy to refer you to a few of our favorite Peruvian restaurants in Chicago! Better yet – why not try Peruvian food in Peru! Cece Gonzales was born and raised in Peru and has put together the most thorough and breathtaking 6-day/5 night trip with an English-speaking guide. This trip will take place this May 2012 and all are welcome to join! Space on this trip is limited and seats are filling up fast, so reserve your spot today! Visit our blog for a breakdown of the trip or request more information via our online form.

Happy Eating!

Travel to Peru with Cece & Melinda!

admin — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 02:44:52 +0000

Visit Peru with a Native
Travel to South America on a once in a lifetime group trip led by natives. Explore beyond the guidebooks with 5 star accommodations! As you may know, Cece Gonzales was born and raised in Peru and has put together the most thorough and breathtaking 6-day/5 night trip with an English-speaking guide.

A City of Enchantment
Cusco is the oldest inhabited city in the Western hemisphere. When the Spaniards arrived the beauty of this country surpassed all they had seen in the New World and astonished them. Gold in the form of intricate religious symbols and artifacts was seen everywhere.

In Cusco, original Incan walls and cobblestone streets blend with colonial Spanish architecture. With elevation at 11,400 feet, Cusco was the center of the ancient Incan civilization. According to the Incas, their Holy City was called “the navel of the earth”. During the trip this May, we will arrive in Cusco and tour all that the ancient city has to offer!

A Wonder of the World
Explore the mystical Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas! It was here that the Incas succeeded in combining the wonders of civilization with those of nature. The sheer beauty of what is considered by some the most dramatic place in the world overwhelms you as you are immediately drawn into its “still alive” mysteries.

The legendary golden city of Machu Picchu is located on a narrow saddle of nearly inaccessible mountains in the heart of a semitropical forest. It is vertically invisible from the valley floor below and stayed hidden. Until its discovery by Hiram Bingham in 1911, it was a closely guarded secret for over four hundred years.

This ancient city consists of more than two hundred buildings, including numerous temples and altars constructed in terraces and connected by stairways carved from solid rock in a spectacular setting within a 360-degree ring of mountain peaks. The Spaniards never found this “Holy City” of the Incas and the energy at this sacred site remains very powerful even today.

Reserve Your Spot Now!
The journey will take place May 16-23, 2012! Due to limited capacity, booking will be made on a first-come first-served basis. In order to make this a most intimate tour of this majestic city, the trip will only accommodate 50 passengers.

FARE: Payment will secure your spot. Checks and contracts can be made payable to Raymi Productions. Email cece@raymiproductions.com for pricing today!

Space is limited and will be on a first-come-first-served basis for booking. Once secured you will receive a detailed itinerary for the trip. Credit Card payments will have a 2.9% added processing fee.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Comfortable air-conditioned bus travel throughout the week
- Double occupancy modern 5 star hotel in the heart of Cusco (add $500 for single occupancy)
- Entrance fees to the tours
- Daily breakfast buffet & all tour lunches
- A personal English-speaking guide
- Transportation to and from the Cusco airport

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:
– Visa and passport fees
- Airport/airline/government taxes, fees
- Some lunches and dinners
- Optional activities and tours
- Items of a personal nature (such as laundry, beverages, etc)
- Flight to and from Cusco (Each guest can take advantage of points, miles, specific airlines, etc)

ADDITIONAL INFO:

- Your $600 down payment is non-refundable
- Once you have secured your spot, you will receive a full itinerary and details on booking a flight from Lima to Cusco. Flights from Chicago will most likely depart at 6am and arrive in Lima at 1am where a connecting flight will take you directly to Cusco. Guests will arrive the following morning to Cusco where transportation will be provided. The adventure will begin in Cusco!
- As of December, current airfare from Chicago to Cusco is between $700 and $800. We highly recommend booking your flight as soon as possible to avoid a hike in rates.

*Should any guests be interested in arriving early to visit Lima before the Cusco trip we will be more than pleased to make suggestions for Lima and assist with accommodations