• Chicago

    Power Fitness Couple Brings High-Profile Vlaun Method Retreats to Central America

    Publications from the Wall Street Journal to Condé Nast Traveler rave about the popular Vlaun Method Retreats created by fitness power couple Chris and Tracie Vlaun. This year the Vlaun’s are bringing their retreats called, “The Future of Fitness,” to Belize and the Dominican Republic.

    The first is slated for April 11-15, 2024 at Naia Resort & Spa in Belize, and the second at the luxurious Melia Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic from Sept 25-28, 2024.

    By incorporating holistic principles and practices such as yoga and calisthenics into their fitness regimen, the couple has differentiated themselves from the traditional gym-based workout routine. During the retreats, guests will challenge themselves with Tracie’s signature Aeroga Movement classes, cardio-pumping yoga workouts, and Chris’s one-of-a-kind beach boot camps.

    The retreats are for anyone looking to kick-start their fitness routine and learn how to live a wellness lifestyle that promotes healthy aging and balance. All retreats are inclusive of everything but airfare and ground transfers.

    Located in the low-key fishing village of Placencia, Naia Resort and Spa sits on 19-acres of secluded private beachfront. The resort, which was named 2023 Belize Hotel of the Year, infuses local culture into the resort’s décor, cuisine, excursions and spa treatments.

    Sitting on the shores of one of the most beautiful beaches in Punta Cana, The adults-only Melia Punta Cana Beach is a wellness-focused property with rooms designed in partnership with Delos.

     

  • Chicago,  food,  San Diego,  WorldWide

    Love dogs? You’ll love this can!

    What better way to show your love for dogs that by drinking from a can…with an adorable Frenchie front and center? Consumers LOVE this design, but love what’s inside even more.

    Here I want to introduce you to Frenchie Premium Hydration. Sticking to health and fitness goals while staying hydrated tastes better than ever!

    Frenchie is a citrus flavored lightly sparkling premium hydration drink! It contains optimal amounts of potassium, glucose and sodium to ensure maximum rapid hydration.

    While the brand’s name and design was inspired by the founder’s two beloved pets, the Frenchie formula is based on the current WHO guidelines for an Oral Rehydration Solution. The isotonic drink has the optimal ratio of ingredients to ensure maximum rapid osmotic pull of electrolytes into their cells. Thanks to this clinical formula, Frenchie not only maximizes your rate of rehydration, but also allows you to make the most of the water you consume.

    During a time when water and other hydration drinks are flying off shelves inside shoes, Frenchie is available on Amazon.

    Frenchie benefits at a glance

    • 2 grams of sugar per can
    • Helps you stay hydrated
    • Helps athletes refuel and rehydrate
    • Helps regulate the body’s fluid balance while carbs provide energy
    • Maintains the balance of muscle functioning

    • HYDRATION DRINK: Each can of Frenchie is packed with Potassium and Electrolytes to ensure maximum hydration for athletes.
    • REGULATE the body’s balance of fluids with no crash
    • STRENGTHEN: Improves and maintains muscle functioning, allowing for quicker recovery and improved performance.
    • LOW CALORIE AND LOW SUGAR: Each can contains only 15 calories and 2g of sugar.
    • NO ARTIFICIAL FLAVORS: Natural citrus flavor provides the great taste that every athlete and health-conscious individual deserves.

    More About Frenchie

    The Chicago-based company prides itself on delivering a unique flavor without sacrificing health benefits. This all-natural premium hydration drink is low in sugar, calories and without preservatives.

  • Chicago,  Los Angeles,  San Diego,  Technology,  WorldWide

    Audio-Technica To Exhibit Its Latest High-Performance Headphones, Turntables and More at AXPONA 2019

    At AXPONA 2019, AudioTechnica demonstrated its latest high-performance headphones and showcasing a selection of turntables from high-end to entry level.

    In addition, the AT-ART1000 state-of-the-art phono cartridge played in four rooms at the show, and AudioTechnica in partnership with Music Direct had headphones and phono cartridges for sale at special pricing.

    ATH-AP2000Ti
    Over-Ear High-Resolution Headphones

    ATH-CK2000Ti
    In-Ear Headphones

    ATH-CM2000Ti
    In-Ear Headphones

    The new over-ear ATH-AP2000Ti (US$1,250.00), in-ear ATH-CK2000Ti(US$750.00) and in-ear ATH-CM2000Ti (US$400.00) headphones feature a host of AudioTechnica‘s latest engineering and materials technologies. All these Hi-Res Audiomodels employ driver diaphragms with a DLC (diamond-like carbon) coating and a Permendur magnetic circuit to deliver exceptional musical detail.

    ATH-M50xBT
    Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

    The ATH-M50xBT wireless over-ear headphones (US$199.00) bring Bluetooth capability to one of the world’s most acclaimed pro audio and consumer headphones, the ATH-M50x.

    • Wireless, on-the-go design delivers the same critically acclaimed sonic performance as the original ATH-M50x professional studio headphones
    • Touch control provides convenient access to voice assist
    • Mic and button controls built into the earcup allow for easy handling of calls, music playback and volume adjustment
    • Proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers deliver exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range, with deep, accurate bass response
    • Over-ear design for excellent sound isolation in loud environments
    • Professional-grade earpad and headband material for long-lasting durability and comfort
    • Up to 40 hours of continuous use on a full charge
    • Compatible with aptX and AAC codecs

    ATH-ANC900BT
    QuietPoint® Wireless Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones

    The ATH-ANC900BT (US$299.00) is AudioTechnica‘s new top of the line QuietPoint® wireless active noise-cancelling model. The headphones feature exclusive digital hybrid active noise cancellation along with exceptional Hi-Res, aptX and Bluetooth 5.0-compatible audio quality.

    ATH-ADX5000
    Audiophile Open-Air Dynamic Headphones

    ATH-DSR9BT
    Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with Pure Digital Drive

    AudioTechnica also exhibited its flagship ATH-ADX5000 open-air headphones (US$1,999.00) and the ATH-DSR9BT headphones (US$549.00) featuring the Pure Digital Drive system, which keeps the audio signal completely digital from source to driver for unmatched wireless sound quality.

    AT-LP120XUSB
    Direct-Drive Turntable (Analog & USB)

    AT-LP60XBT
    Fully Automatic Wireless Belt-Drive Turntable

    AT-LP7
    Fully Manual Belt-Drive Turntable

    AT-LP5
    Direct-Drive Turntable

    The new AT-LP120XUSB USB turntable (US$249.00) and AT-LP60XBT Bluetooth turntable (US$149.00) come with built-in phono preamps, pre-mounted cartridges and everything needed to enjoy high-quality record playback. AudioTechnica also showed its top of the line AT-LP7 and its AT-LP5 turntables (US$799.00, US$449.00).

    About Audio-Technica:

    Established in 1962, Audio-Technica is a worldwide group of companies devoted to the design, manufacture, marketing and distribution of problem-solving audio equipment. Initially known for state-of-the-art phonograph cartridges, A-T now creates high-performance microphones, headphones, wireless systems, mixers and electronic products for home and professional use.

    Winner of numerous industry awards, Audio-Technica manufactures products that set quality, durability and price/performance standards for live sound tours, broadcast and recording studios, corporate and government facilities, house-of-worship venues, and more. A-T microphones are chosen for critical government installations such as the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate. Audio-Technica microphones and wireless systems are also selected for major broadcast music events, including the GRAMMY® Awards and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremonies.


    Audio-Technica products have provided seamless audio coverage and technical support in U.S. presidential debates since 1988. A-T mics also deliver versatile solutions at high-profile sports broadcasts, including World Cup Soccer, the Super Bowl, and the Commonwealth Games, as well as the Summer Games in London (2012), Beijing (2008), Athens (2004), Sydney (2000), and Atlanta (1996), and the Winter Games in Sochi (2014), Vancouver (2010), Torino (2006) and Salt Lake City (2002).


    Audio-Technica Corporation in Japan, in addition to offering a wide range of products under its own brand, is a leading OEM supplier of audio transducers, optical sensors and a variety of specialty devices. Audio-Technica U.S., Inc. markets and distributes A-T products throughout the Western Hemisphere. With other operating companies in Europe, Singapore and Hong Kong, Audio-Technica today is a global leader in its field, committed to providing superior performance and exceptional value for customers around the world.

  • Chicago

    How to Play to Your Strengths

    Photo by Benjamin Davies CC0
    Caption: Make happiness your goal.

    Have you ever wondered about whether you’re fulfilling your potential? If you want to escape the daily grind of your routine and instead, start feeling joyful about life, you need to identify your strengths and play to them. Many of us have hidden strengths that we ignore because we don’t have the time, money or energy to indulge them. However, if you identify where your natural talent lies and build your life around it, you will find yourself effortlessly happier, healthier and more at peace.

    Identify Your Talent

    The first step is to identify where your natural strength and talent lie. Billionaire Microsoft founder Bill Gates started off pursuing a law career at Harvard but dropped out in favor of his growing interest in computer programming. If he hadn’t made the decision to follow his natural ability and enthusiasm, then the world’s largest PC software company might never have happened, and Gates wouldn’t have achieved his potential.

    It might feel impossible to identify that one thing that you’re good enough at to dedicate your life. To start with, think of something you enjoy — something that you feel a real enthusiasm for and would want to do every day. It needs to be something that you are not only good at but excel in beyond most other people. Even if this is spending hours on the PlayStation leveling a video game or making the best poached eggs in the morning, it’s a starting point and can take you further than you might think.

     Photo by Ian Schneider / CC0
    Caption: Find your passion.

    Make the Most of It

    Next, you need to think about how to turn this specific skill into something bigger. When Chris Moneymaker entered the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event back in 2003, he had no idea how much his life was about to change. But he did believe in his ability and put faith in the hard work he dedicated to honing his chosen craft. Nowadays, he has the Moneymaker PSPC Tour of the U.S., helping other poker players around the country to follow in his footsteps and win big.

    It might not seem obvious at first which path to take but following your strengths can only lead to success. That’s because when you’re doing what you’re good at, it brings positive results, gives you more energy and motivates you to go further. Video games tester, chocolate taster and island caretaker might all sound too good to be true, but they’re all real jobs that utilize people’s niche abilities.

    Look for an Opportunity

    Once you’ve identified where your strengths lie, it’s time to look out for an opportunity to apply them in real life. Sometimes, this means thinking outside the box and creating that opportunity for yourself. One of the most successful stars to come out of the blogging boom has been a British woman named Zoe Sugg. She began her YouTube vlogging (video blogging) empire from her bedroom, recording product reviews, clothes hauls and beauty tips and talking about her interests. Fast forward almost a decade, and Sugg now has 12 million subscribers to her YouTube channel, a range of beauty products available in nationwide stores and is a best-selling author. She has successfully built a business around herself, marketing her values and interests through exclusive products.

    It might look like a lot of hard work to pursue your dreams, and that’s because it is. It takes dedication, courage and faith to turn what might only be a hobby right now into a career that can support you through life. However, it is much more work to keep doing something you are not best suited to do, not fulfilling you and unlocking the potential within you.

    Identifying your strengths is the first step, and once you’ve done that, you’ll find that everything else follows more easily. After all, what could be easier than doing what you do best?

  • Asian,  Austin,  Australia,  Baltimore,  Beauty,  Bitty,  Chicago,  Fashion,  Las Vegas,  London,  Los Angeles,  Miami,  New York

    Best Eyeshadow Palettes Under $25

    Eyeshadows have ruled the makeup world for some time now. Everyone needs that perfect neutral shade for daily wear or that risqué color for a night out. If you are looking to try out some great new shades without breaking the bank, here are some of my favorite eyeshadow palettes under $25.

    Morphe’s 9A Always Golden Eyeshadow Palette

    These nine golden shades in the Morphe 9A Always Golden Eyeshadow Palette are sure to take you places, faux real. Crazy-creamy, powerfully pigmented, beyond-blendable eyeshadows perfect for some fun in the sun or some fake-it-til-you-make-it action. Choose your own color adventure. But one thing’s for sure; you’ll never run out of ways to turns heads.

    Price: $12.00

    Essence’s All About Toffee Eyeshadow Palette

    This Gorgeous Essence All About Toffee Eyeshadow Palette has eight complementing, buildable colors and multiple finishes; satin, matte and metallic effects. It blends easily and the colors will stay on all day! Perfect palette for everyday wear.

    Price: $5.49

    Covergirl’s Goldens TruNaked Eyeshadow Palette

    CoverGirl’s Goldens TruNaked Eye Shadow Palette has a stunning range of neutral shades for your perfect nude eye look. Richly pigmented shadows in golden, and in a range of colors and textures – from neutrals to Smokeys and shimmers to mattes.

    Price: $5.99

    Makeup Revolution’s Iconic 1 Redemption Eyeshadow Palette

    Makeup Revolution’s Iconic 1 Redemption Eye Shadow Palette is a perfect mix of pearl, shimmer and matte shades. As comfortable and familiar as your favorite t-shirt, the bronzy tones of this palette will make you want to strip down and bare all (in the best way possible).

    Price: $7.00

    NYX’s Cosmic Metals Shadow Palette

    Create a spectrum of out-of-this-world eye looks with the Cosmic Metals Shadow Palette – a new eyeshadow set inspired by NYX Professional Makeup Professional Makeup’s beloved Cosmic Metals Lip Cream. Powered by six pigment-packed eyeshadows, this gorgeous set loads your lids with rich, metallic color and incredible color payoff.
    Price: $9.99

    E.L.F.’s Online Only Need It Nude Eyeshadow Palette

    Achieve beautifully natural eye looks with these perfectly curated 10 neutral eyeshadow shades in the e.l.f. Cosmetics Need It Nude Eyeshadow Palette. This collection of hues is ideal for shading, highlighting, and defining the eyes. These silky smooth shadows can be used as a liner, on the lid, and in the crease of the eye for an expertly contoured and blended look. Cruelty free and vegan.

    Price: $10.00

    Sleek Makeup’s Under A Spell Eyeshadow Palette

    Create a variety of stunning looks with these 12 shades of mineral based, highly pigmented eyeshadow in the Sleek MakeUP Under A Spell Eyeshadow Palette.
    Price: $12.99
    BH Cosmetics Be… by BubzBeauty 12 Color Eyeshadow Palette
    Known to her YouTube fans as BubzBeauty, Lindy Tsang hand-picked the must-have shades in her BH Cosmetics Be… by BubzBeauty 12 Color Eyeshadow Palette. Each shade offers day-to-night versatility – and emphasizes fans’ beauty, both inside and out.
    Price: $14.50

    Models Own’s Supernatural Eyeshadow Palette

    Go to a parallel universe with this Models Own Supernatural Eyeshadow Palette. From dark secrets to sultry whispers, it’s totally bewitching. With the brush, apply metallic nudes, shimmer browns and rich golds for a look that’s out of this world.

    Price: $17.99

     

  • Asian,  Austin,  Australia,  Baltimore,  Beauty,  Chicago,  Fashion,  Las Vegas,  London,  Los Angeles,  Miami,  New York

    IT Cosmetics Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals

    Take the stress out of your holiday shopping, avoid the lines and endless searching for the right gifts! Let IT Cosmetics help you quickly cross off all the beautiful women on your gifting list with amazing online BLACK FRIDAY and CYBER MONDAY beauty deals! itcosmetics.com is your one-stop shop this holiday season!

     

    Black Friday Weekend

    Available 11/23/17 – 11/24/17 (11:59pm ET)

    o    Promo Code: FRIDAY17

    Available 11/25/17 – 11/26/17 (11:59pm ET)

    • Spend $25 and receive a Discover IT Kit – a travel size set of your favorite IT Cosmetics must-haves including Bye Under Eye, Brow Power, Superhero Mascara plus two bonus sample packets

    o   Promo Code: FREEGIFT

    Available 11/27/16 (11:59pm ET) for ONE DAY ONLY!!!

    o   Promo Code: MONDAY20

    Wait…there’s more!

     

    Available 11/28/17 – 12/3/17 (11:59pm ET)

    Enjoy free shipping all week-long! And every order includes an exclusive IT Girl Tote complete with free samples of your favorite IT Cosmetics products!

     

    Happy shopping!