Pure, Unadulterated Joy

Rusnak - Night of Luxury with Designer Kevan Hall - Part 1

By Joy A. Kennelly

In light of the recent White House party crashers who are soooo desperate for attention (shamefully so), I thought I'd share some of the amazing parties I've been to over the past few months as a legitimately invited guest.

Trust me, I thought being invited to attend this year's Inauguration couldn't be topped, but two luxurious parties held right here in Los Angeles were right up there as a thrilling experience to attend.

What was funny about Rusnak's Night of Luxury is that I really had no idea what to expect - I just knew I wanted to see Designer, Kevan Hall, since I've been attending his fashion shows since 2006 and love his designs.

After pitching the publicist all I could do was hope beyond hope I would receive an invitation it was so exclusive. Only Rusnak customers, VIP's and other select people were invited - I didn't see any of the usual fashion people I saw at other LA Fashion Week events which surprised me.

Rusnak's Night of Luxury was such a special evening. The best part was it's exclusivity and luxurious feel from the moment you arrived till the very end of the night.

Held on the backlot of Universal, you passed through a gate where your name was checked off by a guard before being directed where to park. (Maybe the White House should consider hiring studio security for their future parties. lol)

As I walked up to the entrance I was welcomed by Rusnak staff offering glasses of champagne and then this scene greeted me which only got better as I continued to walk up the hill to the first buffet and car display.

(Sorry they're a little blurry - have to admit, I was rather excited seeing all the luxury vehicles because I love cars and had no idea they would be on display. My photographer, Stefhan Gordon, arrived much earlier than I did which is why the streets aren't as busy in his shots.)

 


 

My dinner mates had recently purchased a Jaguar from Rusnak which is why they were attending, but every type of luxury vehicle was on display.

Speaking of jags, the gift bags of the evening were quite a hit and everyone was wearing them.
I saw one boorish man walking out with ten bags,  but for the most part  everyone was civilized. I love my little kitty which growls when you squeeze it. Don't you love the Jaguar key chain attached to its collar? The cat's meow! The night kept getting better and better. There were multiple buffet presentations of delicious cuisine,
multiple bars with bartenders serving decadent cocktails,   and lots of amazing luxury vehicles to admire.

There was even a special unveiling of the new Rolls Royce "Shadow" by Miss California (one of the few luxury cars I have yet to take a ride in which is on my list), and the new four-door Porsche Panamera (which is now also on my list!) The Rusnak family and Miss California.
   
Here's the composite of the Porsche unveiling for your viewing pleasure - it was awe-inspiring to say the least. The crowd gasped when it was revealed since it's the first ever four-door Porsche and is still 0-60 in 5.2 seconds.
Please excuse the glare - it was rather hard to grab these shots because everyone was crowding around afterward it was so popular! Here's my view of the unveiling to give you a different perspective. The composite above is courtesy Photographer, Stefhan Gordon.

I really liked Rusnak after this evening! Here's some of the sponsors who participated and their mission statement. Isn't that lovely? "Create a positive impact through community involvement, social responsibility and charity." They made a very generous donation to a local charity as part of the evening's events.

During the evening Miss California was very accessible and gracious. She is so friendly I'm happy she's representing our state. Here's us sharing a moment. Isn't she adorable? Now if you can imagine, this was really only the first part of the evening! I saw some people leaving when I arrived probably thinking they had seen it all, but what they missed was the most fantastical fashion show of the entire season by Fashion Designer, Kevan Hall (and I don't say that lightly.)

I'm going to cover the fashion show separately because there's just too many good things to detail and this blog is already rather long.

Part II coming soon!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Can't wait to have extra time to write! Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday! Happy Thanksgiving! I'm grateful for my friends and family and YOU!

God bless.

VOX DJs/VOX Entertainment 25th Year Celebration wrap-up

By Joy A. Kennelly

I've been waiting on the professional photographer's shots from the VOX DJs/VOX Entertainment 25th Year Anniversary Celebration, but since it's taking too long I will use my images from the event to share what went on. (Mine aren't as diverse since there were two other shooters capturing the night. If you're my Facebook friend I've uploaded all I shot there - these are highlights.)

Oh what a night!

The turn-out was great with a huge mix of ages. Manhattan Country Club members were invited to join in the 25th Year Celebration because Shawn and his family have had a membership for years and many people wanted to recognize his achievement. In addition, VOX DJs CEO/MC/DJ, KC Campbell, and VOX Entertainment CEO, Shawn Sedlacek, had invited past and present clients, friends and colleagues which made it a fun mix.

Due to VOX Entertainment specializing in lighting and staging, the Manhattan Country Club was transformed into a nightclub like experience with colored lights creating a moody background for the final act of the evening - VOX DJ Raw Styles vs. Drummer Kaumyar performance which built from a slow beat into a huge crescendo with everyone dancing and having a great time.

Here's some of shots to give you an idea of what I'm talking about:

But that wasn't all, the guys went all out with a red carpet for arrivals

and special step and repeat wall which everyone loved posing in front of.

VOX DJs CEO/MC/DJ, KC Campbell, Signature Magazine Publisher, Ian Bertrand and girlfriend, Sandra Taupin, with VOX Entertainment CEO, Shawn Sedlacek

Special logo enhancements glowed on the walls while VOX DJ Andy Rossi played hip hop/dance music and everyone got their groove on.

I helped with registration for the first part of the night with Annie from VOX Entertainment and can't tell you what went on while I was outside, but by the time I did go inside the party was rocking!  One room was set up with couches, a private bar, appetizers and DJ Hero which was very popular with all ages. In the main room, KC got up and entertained everyone with an acoustic rendition of a popular song on his guitar.  
My favorite part of the night was when Shawn got up to speak from his heart about his experience building VOX and the bittersweet feeling he felt now that VOX DJs was run by his long-time friend/DJ, KC Campbell. 
I think in this day and age there aren't many rites of passage men go through to signify the end of one stage of their lives and the beginning of another. As a result, this 25th Year Anniversary Celebration was symbolic on many levels; a public recognition of the achievements of Shawn and all the guys who helped build VOX into the powerhouse award-winning event agency it is today and also, a public passing of the torch to KC as the sole owner of VOX DJs.

KC acknowledged the business acumen of Shawn and his friendship over the years when it was his turn to address the crowd too.

Both speeches were very moving and special. Immediately following, KC invited all the past and present VOX DJs in the house to come forward. It was great to see how many had shown up in support  Current VOX DJs
After the speeches, Shawn and his band, Run for Cover, with lead singer, Johnny G, got the party started with great rock cover songs. Who knew Johnny G, quiet banker by day, was such a rocker by night? And such a good singer too! And Shawn was a great drummer too!  
It was really fun to see everyone having such a great time after all the hard work we all put into making the event happen. Throughout the night, various VOX DJs spun, keeping the party flowing.

VOX DJ, Tony Hubbard

VOX DJ Roderick aka Raw Styles

We pulled an impromptu gathering of all the BNI ladies and friends which KC didn't mind.:) KC's parents showed up after attending a wedding and were very proud of their son. VOX DJ CEO/DJ/MC, KC Campbell and DJ Roderick aka Raw Styles finally relaxing.

Jose, the man who kept things running smoothly behind the scenes. He was very sweet and cut the sheet cake I'd baked to celebrate the guy's anniversary into bite size pieces to share with as many as possible.
Some of the guests in attendance.
  
If you missed it, there's always the 50th!:)

VOX DJs & VOX 25th Year Celebration info/pix coming soon

By Joy A. Kennelly

VOX DJs/VOX Entertainment's 25th Year Anniversary celebration at the Manhattan Country Club was a blast. I will write a blog about it soon I promise!

I also promise I still have to write up the Rusnak Night of Luxury event with the amazing Designer, Kevan Hall, coming too.

That's all for now. Have to run. Have a good one.

BLOG: #VOX DJs & VOX Entertainment 25th Year Anniversary Celebration - DJ highlights

By Joy A. Kennelly

Due to such an overwhelming positive response from past and present clients, friends and colleagues,  the guest list is now closed for tonight's VOX DJs & VOX Entertainment's 25th Year Anniversary Celebration.

For those of you who did RSVP in a timely fashion, I thought you might like to know a little more about some of the many past and present DJs who will be performing throughout the night for your dancing and listening pleasure.

KC Campbell-High Profile DJ/MC

KC Campbell’s career at VOX DJs began at an early age. Shawn Sedlacek, VOX DJs Founder, offered KC a job after noticing his fun, outgoing personality and his love for music at a local Manhattan Beach Intermediate middle school dance. KC quickly became one of VOX DJs most highly requested DJs. Focusing on high school and youth events, KC was truly destined to perform and entertain.

KC attended local Mira Costa High School, and then went off to the University of Colorado, Boulder, and majored in Communication. He kept his focus on performing, and continued DJ’ing for his fraternity Sigma Chi’s legendary “late night” functions, acted in numerous plays and short films, and also hosted his own radio show for the local Boulder, Colorado radio station.

After graduating from Colorado in 2000, KC returned home to Manhattan Beach and became the Division Manager for VOX DJs. From 2000 to 2007, KC helped to build VOX DJs from 3 DJs total and 150 events a year, to 10 DJs total and over 400 events a year.

In 2008, KC purchased VOX DJs from Shawn Sedlacek and is now the owner and head DJ at VOX DJs.   KC has played for celebrity clients such as Diana Ross, Terrell Owens, and Access Hollywood’s Nancy O’Dell and Billy Bush.  He is the featured MC for Barry Manilow’s Las Vegas concert tours and was personally requested to DJ the wedding of Kansas City Chiefs Quarterback, Matt Cassel.

In his free time, KC enjoys playing guitar, piano, singing, working out and traveling.

Roderick Gaerlan-High Profile DJ/MC

 Born in the Philippine Islands, Roderick Gaerlan (AKA "Raw Styles") was raised in San Jose, California. He discovered DJing at Sheppard Middle School (San Jose), when he started going to house parties to listen to friends DJ. Soon he was hooked on DJ battles and throwing the best parties around.

 

After graduation, he joined his childhood buddies' DJ crew as the MC and performed at house parties, high schools/colleges, weddings and corporate events. His passion for good music and his outgoing personality led him to start R.A.W. Entertainment (a DJ/MC, Production & Event Company) where he performed for events all over San Francisco Bay Area working alongside, and learning from, top legendary Bay Area DJs. In 1999, Roderick sold his company to his business partner to pursue a career in dotcoms. Today, R.A.W. Entertainment remains one of the Premiere DJ/MC and Events Companies in the San Francisco Bay Area.

 

After the big dotcom bust, Roderick went back to school in 2002 and graduated from Cal Berkeley in Mass Communications/Public Policy while continuing to DJ. In early 2008, Roderick joined forces with KC Campbell and the DJ/MC powerhouse VOX DJs to head the Sales & Marketing arm upon his move to Los Angeles. His current DJ residencies include the sexy Zinc Lounge (Shade Hotel) and Mucho Lounge in Manhattan Beach, and such clubs/venues as J Lounge (Downtown LA), Stone Rose (Beverly Hills), Andaz Hotel (W. Hollywood), and Palihouse (W. Hollywood), to name a few. 

 

When Roderick is not working, he lives for the moment. His life passions include skydiving, scuba, motorcycle riding, salsa dancing, photography, sports and traveling. He has been to 17 different countries and speaks fluent Spanish and Tagalog.

SOME OF THE VOX ACTIVE DJs PERFORMING TONIGHT

DJ/MC Andy Rossi

(Clubs, Corporate, Private Events, Weddings, et al)

Andy Rossi first began DJing at the age of 14 with his uncle's DJ business. At Illinois State University, Andy worked regularly as a club DJ at Varsity Club and Elroy's Bar and Grill in Bloomington, IL, as well as an on-air disc jockey at WZND Z106. Upon graduation, Andy moved to California to act and has appeared in various TV / Film projects. He has spun for VOX Djs at Shade Hotel, Signature Magazine’s Palihouse event, for former NBA player, Adam Keefe’s House Party, the Lion King’s After-party, My Network TV Tour Wrap party and numerous events in Chicago, San Diego, Orange County and Santa Barbara.

  DJ/MC Aaron Massey 

(Clubs, Corporate, Private Events, Weddings, et al)

Originally from Ohio, Aaron moved to LA to pursue his talented art of acting and discovered VOX DJs. Aaron delivers the best music with a high energy to all different types of events including Pat O’Brien’s birthday party, E3 Eragon and many more.

 

DJ/MC Diego Hellewell 

(Corporate, Private Events, Weddings, et al)

Diego Hellewell spent two years in Hawaii studying studio recording and live sound, while performing in local reggae and rock bands, and DJ’ing house parties. He then relocated to Las Vegas to complete his Bachelor’s Degree in music at UNLV. While in Las Vegas, Diego began DJ’ing weddings for a premiere wedding DJ company at The Hyatt Regency Lake Las Vegas Resort, Reflection Bay Golf Club, Caesar’s Palace, and The Venetian Hotel and Casino. Graduating with a law degree from Southwestern, Diego now practices law while continuing to bring his energy and expertise to weddings and parties locally.

 

DJ/MC Maxx Henry

(Clubs, Private Events, Schools)

Maxx has loved the art of DJing since the vinyl days when he began at the age of 13. His obsession and love of music makes Maxx a talented VOX DJ who understands what music to play for any crowd. He has performed at hundreds of high profile events and venues, including Invasion Tours, inside the world famous 02 Arena London, Hilton Hotel Las Vegas, Signature Magazine Launch parties, Rockstar, and Von Dutch.  He’s the resident DJ for Mucho Lounge (Fridays) and Shade Hotel (Saturdays).

 

DJ/MC Luke Manthe 

(Clubs, Corporate, Private Events, Weddings, et al)

Originally from South Africa, Luke graduated from USC (Marshall School) with a B.S. in Entrepreneurial Business. Having an appealing accent and outgoing personality, he successfully started his DJ/MC career with his own 2-year college radio show. While mobile DJing and organizing fashion shows, he also produced a radio soccer show (World Soccer Weekly) and has worked for Star 98.7FM, Los Angeles. While with VOX DJs, Luke has performed for Deloitte and Touche’s Winter Ball, at Trump National Golf Club, and numerous other high-end venues where VOX is a preferred vendor.

There are other VOX DJs performing, but I didn't feel like overwhelming you with everyone's bios.

Looking forward to seeing those of you who have RSVPed tonight! It's going to be a blast!

Blog - #Manhattan Beach-based VOX DJs & VOX Entertainment Celebration Saturday!

By Joy A. Kennelly

KC CAMPBELL OF VOX DJS & SHAWN SEDLACEK OF VOX ENTERTAINMENT, MANHATTAN BEACH ENTREPRENUERS,
TO CELEBRATE 25th YEAR ANNIVERSARY AT MANHATTAN COUNTRY CLUB IN MANHATTAN BEACH, CA  SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2009 FROM 8:00pm – 12:00am

 Manhattan Beach, CA KC Campbell of VOX DJs,
and VOX Entertainment President, Shawn Sedlacek, the founder of VOX DJs, will celebrate their 25th Year Anniversary at Manhattan Country Club in Manhattan Beach, CA Saturday, November 14, 2009 from 8:00pm – 12:00am. In 1984 at the age of 12,
Shawn Sedlacek started VOX DJs as a hobby which quickly grew into a successful business under his direction.  In 2008, VOX DJs was purchased by its most tenured DJ/MC, KC Campbell. Over the past quarter century VOX DJs has performed at over 10,000 events including national
and international private parties,

corporate events,  conventions, college and university functions,
wedding celebrations,    as well as, holding in-house "residencies" at some of LA's finest nightclubs, restaurants and lounges. 
VOX DJs is a member of the American Disc Jockey Association (ADJA) and prides itself on a high level of customer satisfaction for their professional DJ staff, entertaining MC’s, and distinctive musical stylings. CEO/DJ/MC KC Campbell and Sales & Marketing Manager, Roderick Gaerlan aka “DJ Raw Styles,” 
continues the legacy of VOX DJs as a powerhouse DJ/MC entertainment company known locally and world-wide; they are a Bank of Manhattan’s “Celebration of Entrepreneurship 2009 Awards” nominee.

Recent awards presented to VOX Entertainment include: Event Marketer Magazine Top 100 Event Agencies 2009, Special Events Magazine 50 Top Event Companies 2009, Promo Magazine Top 100 Agencies 2009, and Top 50 Rental Companies 2009.

Manhattan Country Club is located at 1330 Parkview Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. A limited number, on a first come, first serve basis, will be open to the public on Nov 1.  More information on the 25^th Year Anniversary Celebration is available: www.manhattancc.com

Side note: Make sure to pick up this month's Signature Magazine for an article on VOX DJs! Available at the party!

Passion Revealed - Alexis Monsanto & Furne One

By Joy A. Kennelly

Now that the Hermosa Beach City Council Candidates I was stumping for, Jeff Duclos and Howard Fishman, are safely in office I can get back to more fun topics seeing as I've left you dangling on LA Fashion Week long enough.:)

Finally, the long-awaited Passion Revealed review! And soon, the Kevan Hall review!

After Philip Rodriguez showcased his gorgeous stunning designs (here's some highlights of his work),  

we were introduced to the next designer, Alexis Monsanto. Now have to admit, I'm partial to beautiful gowns and evening wear and seeing a more casual resort line took a minute to adjust to.

However, once the realization was made that this was more of a resort collection I was easily able to appreciate Monsanto's designs as well. Very beautiful flowing cover-ups, sophisticated slip dresses, elegant pants with flirty, feminine blouses, bold accessories, and wild, over-the-top footwear were his signature style.

Here's some examples to give you an idea of what I'm talking about (a couple of these shots are mine from the runway, the rest are courtesy of my Photographer, Stefhan Gordon):

   
Now after we had seen this model (who drew gasps from the audience) we thought we had seen it all, but this was nothing compared to what was in store. Before we move on to the next designer, here's a video highlighting some of Monsanto's designs:

The next designer, Furne One, was so over-the-top, my stylist friend called his designs "tranny fierce" and we all had to agree. We also thought all his designs were like Disney on steroids, Halloween come early, or costumes for Stanley Kubrick's Eyes Wide Shut movie - it was truly out-of-this-world.

The makeup, the hair, the "hats", the gowns, the fabric - crazy, over-the-top which is what you expect to see when you go to a fashion show. Now that I learn he's a Filipino Dubai-based designer catering to Arab high society, it all makes sense.

Click here for an article highlighting Heidi Klum's selection of Furne One to design all the gowns for the finalists of Germany's Next Top Model Competition which gives more background on his work.

His Passion Revealed fashion show included lots of tulle, sequins galore, roses, color and detailed work.

And now, without further ado, a visual feast! (Sorry, my photographer had to leave for another shoot, but hopefully you will grasp the show with my humble shots.:) Make sure to pay special attention to the headgear, and I do mean headgear - outrageous!)

  The designer, Furne One, in all his glory at the end. if you look closely you can see Project Runway's Nick Verreo applauding from the front row. Even the music was dramatic albeit a little repetitious.

Here's a little amateur video of the show:

Perfect way to end the evening - with a bang!

What I learned later is that the hostess of the evening was Miss Universe 1997 Brook Lee and there were lots of celebrities in attendance. I even warranted a mention in the publicist's press release as a fashion blogger. Fancy that.:)

Here's her write-up of who was seen in attendance that evening and the beneficiaries:

"Seen enjoying the event were Nick Verreos of MSN Lifestyle and Project Runway, Melissa Magsaysay of LA Times, Maria Quiban of Fox LA Morning News, Philippine Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo-Aragon, VuQo Premium Vodka’s Jose Panlilio and Raul Panelo, Former Miss Philippines Eva Reyes, Former Mutya ng Pilipinas Bong Dimayacyac, Laly Aldeguer of the famed Aldeguer Sisters, Atty. Claire Navarro- Espina, Loren Escano of M Lhuillier Financial Services, Zee Lifestyle Magazine Cebu Publisher-- Ms. Eva Gullas, Rupert Wainwright of Bravo’s Matchmaker Millionaire, The Young and the Restless star Sean Kanan; fashion bloggers Joy Kennelly, Brittan Salisbury and Everette Perry;  UCLA Basketball player Matt Lee, Rock and Republic’s Shane Upson, actress Gina La Piana who appeared in Everybody Hates Chris and Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, and Reichen Lehmkuhl of Amazing Race and Dante’s Cove. Noted media present were from California Apparel News, That Morning Show on E! and Metrosource.

Passion Revealed was not only used as a platform for the Filipino Fashion Designers to showcase their ingenuity, but more importantly, it also served as a vehicle to raise funds for the typhoon victims in the Philippines. Part of the proceeds from this event went to Gawad Kalinga in support of their relief operations efforts benefiting hundreds of victims of Typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng."

It was definitely a special evening. I was very happy to have participated. I hope you enjoyed this stylish break from politics and wish you a most excellent day.:) 

Daily Breeze's Coverage of Hermosa Beach Elections for your reading pleasure

Fishman, Duclos, Bobko take Hermosa Beach council seats

HERMOSA BEACH CITY COUNCIL

by Andrea Woodhouse Staff Writer

Posted: 11/03/2009 11:58:21 PM PST

» Results: City contests

» South Bay election results

Hermosa Beach voters awarded City Council seats to two frequent candidates and the current mayor Tuesday, but ousted a two-term incumbent.

With all seven precincts reporting in the race for three seats, Howard Fishman led the eight-candidate field with 24.8 percent of the vote, handily snagging the seat he declined after a victorious run four years ago.

Jeff Duclos, a longtime local activist with several council bids under his belt, won a seat with 18.3 percent of the vote, and incumbent Kit Bobko earned a second term with 15.8 percent of the vote.

A third term eluded Councilman Michael Keegan, who he earned just 13.7 percent of the vote.

Councilman J.R. Reviczky did not seek a fifth term.

For more of this article, please click here.

Hermosa Beach City Council Election Results - Fishman, Duclos and Bobko as of 8:17pm

By Joy A. Kennelly

I'M THRILLED! LOOKS LIKE IT'S HOWARD FISHMAN, JEFF DUCLOS AND KIT BOBKO FOR OUR NEW HERMOSA BEACH CITY COUNCIL! 

You can see the final results here: http://rrccmain.co.la.ca.us/0019_CityContests_Frame.htm

Now if you'll excuse me, I have a victory party to attend. YEAH!

THE PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN - Michael Keegan is out! Jeff Duclos and Howard Fishman are in!!!!!

Praise the Lord and pass the ammunition!:)

This has been a great election night all over the United States! Yeah NJ and VA too! Whoo hooo!

Double Whammy - virus personally and technically

By Joy A. Kennelly

I normally never go this go long without blogging because I always feel better putting my thoughts down "on paper" so to speak, but last week was fighting a physical virus of some sort and on top of it, my computer had massive viruses which took all weekend to clean off.

Needless to say, I have a lot of catching up to do and I know it! It's been weighing heavy on me that I haven't been able to give the two remaining fashion shows blog coverage, but I promise, it is coming.

I also wrote two informative/fun blogs on the upcoming VOX DJs/VOX Entertainment 25th Year Anniversary party on November 14th which I lost due to the virus and plan to write those again too. You never realize how much you depend on your computer working right till it doesn't! Totally frustrated me beyond belief.

Thank you so much for your patience. It was a very trying week last week and I spent most of the weekend working on resolving issues, but today it looks like all is well! Now to wrap up some intense deadlines I'm under to allow me to relax and write later on today.

Thanks again for waiting. It's been bugging me as much as it might be bugging you too!

Now, time to run.