AJ Feuerman

Publicist | Social Media Strategist | Brunch Fanatic

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Blogs I Enjoyed in 2019

January 2, 2020 By AJ Leave a Comment

Yes, I am still reading blogs.

As the “old” saying goes, “Long live the blog, RIP blogs!” which I suppose is true. It’s been more than a year since I posted anything in the blog that gave me any recognition and far more than a decade since I started blogging in the first place. And I’ve certainly given up on blog conferences – an event space I used to fervently follow.

But as a “regular person,” I still very much enjoy reading blogs kept lovingly by both friends and strangers — I still check my Feedly a few times a week! These blogs provide news, entertainment, recipes, book recommendations… They make me smile a lot. It’s still a great little escape. So if anyone else wants to carve out the time, here are ten blogs I enjoyed in 2019:

Blogs I Enjoyed in 2019

Greeblehaus: I’ve “known” Aimee for many years, though we’ve never met in person. But I can still tell you she is a talented concert photographer and her recent Hanson concert photos are my favorite thing she’s ever posted. (Ever the FANSON am I!) buy dnp

Jessica Gottlieb: No frills, no sponsored posts, no theme. Just her thoughts and feelings. Jessica doesn’t post too often, but when she does, it packs a punch. She is a deeply talented writer and worth following.

A Beautiful Mess: They are mostly focused on interior design and there’s definitely a lot of mom-things, but I still enjoy it! They have such a lovely aesthetic. Great taste. My favorite is their weekly “10 Things I Love on Sunday” series.

Blogs I Enjoyed in 2019

Life as a Rambling Redhead: I found this blog a little backwards. I started following Jennifer on Instagram first (at the urging of a friend), the blog came later. But she’s a rockstar at shopping recommendations and gift ideas. She has a gorgeous home and an adorable family. She is entirely delightful.

More Than Thursdays: Lizz and I have a love of Harry Potter and Star Wars in common and those two things pop up often on her blog, so it’s quite enjoyable for me. She also posts great crafts and recipes. I am also a big fan of her “side hustle,” PewPew Lasercaft!

Not Entirely Perfect: Stephanie has been blogging about her life, her home, finances, goal-setting and more for a long time and she’s consistently good. She’s also got a weekly series I enjoy, “Three on Thursdays.”

Blogs I Enjoyed in 2019

Organized Island: I’ve known Raquel for ages and ages from back when I was more invested, traditional blogger and she’s such a lovely human being. The recipes she posts are often fairly simple and make me believe I could actually try them and succeed.

The Bloggess: If you have never read about Beyonce, the big metal chicken, just do it right now. I’ll wait. Jenny has since published two best-selling books and is currently opening her own bookstore but she still blogs often and is still terrific.

The Sparkly Life: Alyssa also posts a weekly list – hers is called “20 Cool Things You Need to Click” and most of the time, I click on all of them. I met her back at my very first blogging conference and was impressed that she held down a popular blog in tangent with her busy magazine editing career.

We Are Not Martha: I used to work with this blogger years ago, which is how I discovered it, but am still a loyal reader. She posts recipes mostly, which always look incredible despite the claim she is “not Martha”, and once a month, I get a bunch of great book recommendations from here.

And that’s it! In truth, when it comes to the “blogs I enjoyed in 2019” this is an incredibly small sampling of the total amount of blogs I check in on every week. My habit is a little vast. And I suspect I will always uncover more outlets to add to my habit. I love a good niche!

Do you still read blogs? Got one I should check out?

 

Filed Under: Pro Tips Tagged With: 2019 Blogs, Best of Blogs, Blogs

THE 2019 BRUNCHIES

December 26, 2019 By AJ Leave a Comment

And the awards go to…..

It’s my most favorite thing to write all year — it is time for the 2019 Brunchies, my annual BRUNCH AWARDS! It has been another stellar year of decadent mid-morning meals, Benedicts, toasts, Bloody Marys and much more. In 2020, I vow to continue to bring you the best Brunch-related content over at @HollywoodBrunch and look forward to the relaunch of my long-lost newsletter for the subject. (I know, I’ve said this before but you gotta keep trying, right?)

2019 Brunchies

BEST BENEDICT: Rossoblu, City Market South, 1124 San Julian St, Los Angeles, 90015

I first tried Rossoblu because I’d heard incredible things about their pasta and that did not disappoint, so I was excited to return for Brunch, which did not disappoint either. They put such a wonderful Italian spin on traditional brunch dishes. The “Crostone Benedetto” was obviously a standout. Of course, I think any dish is improved with fresh prosciutto. And while it appears to be a very simple side salad, they dress it in such a wonderful, homemade vinagarette, I could just pack that lettuce in all day. xe88

2019 Brunchies

BEST BAGEL: Black Market Liquor Bar, 11915 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, 91604

I previously felt that ordering a bagel with lox for brunch was silly. Why spend so much money on something I could very easily assemble in my own kitchen? But on one visit to BMLB, believe it or not, I just didn’t feel all the brunch vibes and wanted something simple and easy. So I gave into their Gravlax platter — and now that is the only thing I will ever order there. How does Gravlax differ from lox? The salmon is sliced super thin and cured in salt, sugar and dill. I like to pile that on my cream cheesed everything bagel with some capers. Maybe squeeze a little lemon. It is perfect. With lesson learned, I’ve gone onto ordering lox plates at other restaurants — nothing comes close to this. So I stand by that ordering any kind of bagel plate at a restaurant is silly. Except here. 

2019 brunchies

BEST TOAST: Bondi Harvest, The Platform, 8820 Washington Blvd.,  Culver City, 90232

It’s important to point out that I’ve only been to Bondi’s Culver location because I’m told it differs a bit from their Venice spot. And when you go, allow some time to stroll through all the cute boutiques at The Platform. They have a lovely patio besides. I was totally blown away by their Sweet Halloumi Toast which is grilled sweet halloumi, avocado, pistachio dukkah and honey on a thick slice of sourdough. Halloumi, for those who don’t know (I had to google it at the time), it is a semi-hard, unripened, brined cheese made from a mixture of goat’s and sheep’s milk. It has a high melting point and so can easily be fried or grilled. I’d liken it to a string cheese texture. It’s a little salty and with the honey over it, amazing. If you’re burnt out on avocado toast, this is going to be your thing. If you’re NOT burnt out on avocado toast, this is till going to be your thing. 

2019 Brunchies

HONORABLE MENTION: All Time, 2040 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, 90027

All Time is quirky (for example, if you’re gonna have a salad, you have to order the “good ass salad” and it is aptly named) and I must clarify that this particular dish is not even on the Brunch menu; it is actually a dinnertime appetizer and only served seasonally, but it is so, so GOOD I could not overlook it here. 

2019 Brunchies

BEST POTATO + BEST COCKTAIL PROGRAM: Akasha, 9543 Culver Blvd, Culver City, 90232

Akasha makes me sad I do not live closer to Culver City because it’s a place where I’d like to be a brunch regular. When I went with a friend, we shared several yummy dishes but really, the homemade latkes and cocktails were all we needed. They serve the latkes the ol’ fashioned way but you oughta get them with sour cream, chives and smoked salmon, too. And if you do find yourself with more room in your tummy and a total lack of self control, get a side of onion rings, too. These are so good they’ve twice been featured on the Food Network’s show “Best Thing I Ever Ate” (one of my favorite shows)! 

2019 Brunchies

Oh hey, take an Uber while you’re at it. Because if you find yourself with all of these on the table, you’ll want to finish them…. That’s a boozy, ginger lemonade, a classic bloody mary, and a coffee drink that made this non-coffee drinker obsessed with coffee for 20 minutes. 

2019 Brunchies

HONORABLE MENTION (Potatoes): Mizlala (West Adams and Sherman Oaks locations), Ingo’s Tasty Diner (Santa Monica) 

It’s not easy to get into Mizlala because the press got hip to it and now it’s trendy, but try, I beg you. And order the latkes (photo on the right), which are super unique with potato and sauerkraut, apple chutney, horseradish and pecorino cheese. Ingo’s is fantastic all-around and is one of only a dozen or so LA brunch spots to offer live jazz. They’ve managed to take the diner experience to the next level with dishes like their hash brown skillet (HELLO SOUR CREAM!!!) while still maintaining a “local hangout” vibe I really loved. 

2019 Brunchies

BEST SANDWICH: Five Leaves, 4845 Fountain Ave, Los Angeles, 90029

If Five Leaves could get their shit together and provide better service, I’d eat there a lot more often and give them a lot more “Brunchies” but after two visits with horrendous service, I am not sure I’ll ever return. However, to be fair, pushing that aside, I cannot overlook how amazing their “five leaves burger” with grass fed beef, grilled pineapple, house-pickled beets, harissa mayo and a sunny up egg on sesame brioche. I dream about that burger. 

2019 Brunchies

HONORABLE MENTION: Crack Shack (multiple locations) 

Is it a brunch spot, per se? No. But that hasn’t stopped me from enjoying it on the occasional Saturday or Sunday. What’s not to love about honey butter-dipped fried chicken on a giant, fresh biscuit with a fried egg and their special red eye aioli?

BEST BLOODY MARY + BEST FRENCH TOAST: Hamptons 818, 14917 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, 91403

Consider this my formal apology to the droves of friends who told me I would love Hamptons 818 because I could not imagine loving a restaurant that went into a tiny building, formerly a wine shop and hot dog stand. Now it is easily one of my most favorite places for brunch. The space is bigger than it looks from the outside; the patio is bustling and crowded – especially if football is on. They also, oddly enough, have a whole hookah thing there, if you’re into that (I am not). The menu is huge so take your time going through it but my solid recommendation, whatever you order, is to get a French Toast plate for the table to share. Their Corn Flake batter makes it and then to top it off, they drizzle lemon ricotta cream over it with syrup and butter. My god, it is decadent. The Bloody Mary also wins at all the things — whatever they use in their homemade mix is gold and they seal the deal by adding bacon and shrimp to it. 

2019 Brunchies

HONORABLE MENTION (Bloody Mary): Ingo’s Tasty Diner

Delightfully, their Blood Marys are served in vintage Wonder Woman glasses. Ingo’s also pickles their own veggies – purchased at the local farmers market. As such, no two Marys are the same. It is $2 to add bacon and you absolutely should.

HONORABLE MENTION (French Toast): On the Thirty, 14622 Ventura Blvd #112, Sherman Oaks, 91403

How has Sherman Oaks become a hotbed of Brunch glory? On The Thirty also coats their French toast in a cereal-better. Here it is Captain Crunch. It makes it pretty sweet but also the perfect thing to share with the rest of the table. 

BEST NEWCOMER: Eleven City Diner, 5400 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, 90036

Eleven City is one of those places where everything on the menu is good. And then some. In fact, my favorite dish there isn’t even really a brunch item and it isn’t even really on the menu but you can ask for it — it’s the open-faced pastrami/corned-beef combo sandwich. They will be around a long time, I think, as they have taken such great care with the menu and aesthetic. 

2019 Brunchies 2019 Brunchies


HONORABLE MENTION: Alice, 8490 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, 90069

Amazingly, Alice is a hotel restaurant. It is based at the 1 Hotel but doesn’t for a second feel like a hotel restaurant. They have set it up with a charming pastry shop up front and a classic art deco vibe in the main restaurant. The food is all wonderful and I’m rather partial to enjoying a grilled cheese and iced tea there. They also have a lovely patio but I’ll be getting to that….

BEST FOR GROUPS: Preux & Proper, 840 South Spring St, Los Angeles, 90014

Where do I begin? I could have given P&P ALL the Brunchies but that felt a little extreme. But I fell so in love with this restaurant this year. Not just because the food is great and the cocktails are amazing and the setting is lovely. I fell in love with it because I swear to you, you’ve just never encountered a more wonderful team of people. They have created a little slice of New Orleans and heaven here so I recommend gathering up a big group of friends and heading there for some shrimp and grits, pate a choux beignets, pork neck gravy poutine, shakshuka… Noticing there aren’t a lot of egg dishes on the menu? That is intentional and it’s a cool way to distinguish themselves from all the hundreds and hundreds of other brunch spots. 

2019 Brunchies

HONORABLE MENTION: Hamptons 818

Hamptons has a boisterous patio so don’t plan to enjoy a peaceful, leisurely brunch here but, as mentioned, it’s just an all-around treat and would be a ton of fun for groups! 

BEST AESTHETIC: Santuari, 6711 Forest Lawn Dr, Los Angeles (Toluca Lake) 90068

How has this restaurant, mere minutes from where I live, gotten by me for so long? Perhaps because it’s on a sort of off-street, by Warner Brothers and Forest Lawn Cemetery, adjacent to the Toluca Lake Tennis and Fitness Club. But it is gorgeous inside and the food is equally gorgeous – plus it’s delicious. It’s become the place I take people to when I want to impress and have no need to drive into the city. It’s earned me a lot of compliments for doing so and I was a little hesitant to reveal it to y’all but you’re welcome. 

2019 Brunchies

HONORABLE MENTION: Le Petit Paris, 418 S Spring St, Los Angeles, 90013

In the same way Preux & Proper has brought a little piece of Louisiana to Downtown LA, so has Le Petit Paris brought us all a little Parisian flare. It’s a stunning, sprawling space. You may see it among the 2020 honorees as well if I can get myself down there for the Sunday brunch buffet sometime, as well. 

BEST PATIO: Alice

Yes, here we are with Alice again, because despite being right on Sunset Blvd., they have achieved a blissful oasis with their patio. They impressed me with comfortable chairs and couches, greenery, shady spots (I’m a delicate vampire, guys) and a not-annoying water feature. It never ceases to amaze me how we live in a city known for great weather and how hard it is to find a great dining patio, so rejoice in this one.

2019 Brunchies

HONORABLE MENTION: The Front Yard, 4222 Vineland Ave, Studio City, 91602

The Front Yard has also managed to be a hotel restaurant that doesn’t feel like a hotel restaurant, over at The Garland. It’s a lovely mix of chairs, booths, lounge space, fireplaces and so forth. 

BEST BUFFET: The Smoke House, 4420 Lakeside Dr, Burbank, CA 91505

Come for the cheesy garlic bread. Stay for the cheesy garlic bread. The Smoke House was built at the end of WWII, in 1946 (73 years ago!), and is one of very few restaurants of that era to survive to today. It also still has the decor of that age — aged red leather booths, tables and chairs — but so be it. It’s part of the charm. The brunch buffet has everything from Oysters to Churros (which is not to say I recommend eating those two items together at all). It’s also priced on the lower side of LA’s brunch buffet spectrum – $37 for adults, $18 for kids (ages five and under are free). If you feeling especially motivated, they’ll even give you $7 off between 9 and 10 AM. 

2019 Brunchies

HONORABLE MENTION: Circa 55, 9876 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, 90210

Circa has you covered if you crave something a little more upscale. Keep an eye on sites like TravelZoo and Groupon for can’t-miss deals on their brunch buffet. I do have to call out, though, because it’s been mentioned with others, that this is a hotel restaurant that does feel like a hotel restaurant. But sitting outside by the pool in gorgeous weather, that’s not so bad. 

BEST ALT BRUNCH: Ma’am Sir, 4330 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, 90029

I don’t know if I ever imagined I’d enjoy a Filipino brunch but this was astonishingly good. I think we went through three orders of “pan de sal” (photo on the right) and went to town on the various spreads it came with. There was shrimp lumpia, pork burgers, porridge and sizzling sisig (that would be a Filipino dish made from parts of pig head and chicken liver)… You could order something a little more usual like pancakes or a smoked salmon benedict, but why would you? 

2019 Brunchies

THOUGHTS? FEELINGS? CRAVINGS?

Let us know what you think about the 2019 Brunchies in the comments!

Brunches I Want to Try in 2020

  • Lincoln (Pasadena)
  • Jacks N’ Joe’s (DTLA)
  • Terra at Eataly (Century City)
  • Margot (Culver City)
  • Atrium (Los Feliz)
  • Bon Temps (Arts Dist.) 

Brunches Recommended to me by Others for 2020*: 

  • Huckleberry (Santa Monica)
  • AOC (Mid-city)
  • Here’s Looking at You (Koreatown)
  • Perch (DTLA)
  • The Local Peasant (Sherman Oaks)
* Via informal poll on Facebook in the Eater LA group.

POSTSCRIPT

These were the Brunches on my “to try” lists this year that I got to:

  • Five Leaves
  • Preux and Proper
  • Ingo’s Tasty Diner 
  • Madera Kitchen
  • The Smoke House

Thus concludes the 2019 Brunchies, everybody. We really need to get on some little trophies next year, don’t you think? Want to look at all the mouth-watering photos on their own? Click here for the album. In any case, thank you for joining me. Please make sure you’re following my brunch adventures on Instagram.

Ever your servant and ever Brunch’s biggest fan, here’s to many more delicious, decadent meals in 2020!

 

2019 Brunchies

Filed Under: Brunch, Foodie Tagged With: 2019 Brunchies, AJ Feuerman, Akasha, Alice Restaurant, Black Market Liquor Bar, Bondi Harvest, Eleven City, Five Leaves, Hamptons 818, Hollywood Brunch, Ma’am Sir, Preux & Proper, Rossoblu, Santurai, The Smoke House

FRIDAY FAVORITES: TIS THE SEASON

December 20, 2019 By AJ Leave a Comment

Friday Favorites – we’re back! Oof. Guys, I’ve been MIA for a bit but still bookmark things to share so apologies in advance, but there is a healthy handful of internet gems to behold here. 

Friday Favorites

WHAT I READ

  • I can’t say I “read” this, but I WANT IT — Golden Girls wrapping paper!
  • This article about two Auschwitz lovers/survivors who reunited 72 years later gave me ALL THE FEELINGS.
  • If you need it – and I did – this TED Talk about living with grief is really wonderful. It also lead me to the speaker’s podcast, which I’ve been enjoying.
  • Podcasting is going mainstream, says FORBES. Says everyone who knows: DUH.

OTHER BLOGGERS & INFLUENCERS

  • Spoon Fork Bacon is giving me life with this caramelized pear tart.
  • And how do we feel about a toffee apple dip? I think I’d give it a shot.
  • I didn’t set out to make this such a recipe-heavy week but damn this lemon-dill salmon looks TASTY.
  • The 12is Style gave out a great list of winter coats in plus sizes. I really need a new coat but keep procrastinating the purchase… Sigh. And BTW, you should follow this blogger on Insta. She’s great.
  • Amy takes such gorgeous photos of concerts but most of the time, I am not hip enough to know the bands. This time, she photographed ONE OF MY FAVES! 

EARLIER THIS WEEK

  • I finished my holiday shopping. HOORAY! I also added like 92 things to my Amazon wishlist. Like this poncho — can I pull this off?
  • I started researching vacationing in Naples, Florida. Here’s why.
  • I added to The Hollywood Picture News’ weekly wrap-up of film trailers. Always enjoy doing it! Especially because I got to make fun of CATS which looks ABOMINABLE. Please enjoy.
  • This heart-warming, festive moment went viral:

     

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Memes (@kalesalad)

 

PR & SOCIAL MEDIA

  • I participated in this article, predicting video content trends in 2020.

FRIDAY FAVORITES: TIS THE SEASON

  • If you are into the chaos of the streaming wars (like me), this is a must-read.
  • This is such a PR WIN. Behold the case study of Chris Evans’ cable knit sweater in Knives Out. 

FRIDAY FAVORITES: TIS THE SEASON

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT

  • I am massively obsessed with Harry Styles’ cover of Lizzo’s “Juice” for BBC1:

  • And here’s a real treat — a while back I witnessed James Corden and Eddie Redmayne shoot a bit for his late-night show in an iconic deli here in Los Angeles. Well, it finally aired and if you pay close attention, you can see me checking my phone…. (about 2:28 and fun Hollywood-esque fact, they shot this twice.)

Filed Under: Pocket Fridays Tagged With: Chris Evans, Eddie Redmayne, Golden Girls, Hanson, Harry Styles, James Corden, Lizzo, Naples, Recipe blogger, Streaming Wars, TED Talk

Friday Favorites and a Funny Story

November 16, 2019 By AJ Leave a Comment

Before we tackle the Friday Favorites, a funny story, if you’ll; indulge me…. On Wednesday morning, I was walking my dog to the doggy daycare that is a couple blocks away. It’s just a couple blocks, cross a street, and there we are; then I turn around and walk home alone. On this morning, on my way back, a loud man in a black car with tinted windows rolled down a window to shout, “HEY! HEY YOU!”

“Me?” I asked, pointing to myself.

“Yes, you. You walked by a few minutes ago. Didn’t you have A DOG???”

“Oh, shit!” I replied. “I wonder where he is!”

I kept walking. And I’d like to think I screwed up his whole day. Him wondering where the hell I left my dog. As if it’s any of his business. What a creeper. And so, onward….

Friday Favorites

WHAT I READ

  • The New York Times profile of Tom Hanks this week was absolutely lovely and you should read it because it will make everything better.
  • Esquire Magazine listed the best new restaurants of 2019 and it was cool to see quite a few LA spots on the list, including a sushi place in Sherman Oaks I now need to try.
  • Nicolas Cage is going to star in a movie AS NICOLAS CAGE. This is PEAK MAXIMUM CAGE. (Can you tell I am excited? I love his crazy.)
    • And BTW, do you guys remember the SNL “Get in the Cage” bit? I loved these…..

OTHER BLOGGERS & INFLUENCERS

  • Every week I contribute to the Hollywood Picture News’ movie trailer scrutiny and this week was especially enjoyable.
  • I found this recipe for Pumpkin Soup and am dying to make it. Doesn’t it look just gorgeous?!
  • Ella Dawson wrote a beautiful piece: “You Deserve a Partner who Texts You Back.” Read it here.
  • Guys. I am captivated by this sandwich demonstration:

Let me show you a magic trick. pic.twitter.com/YddCWNt0gP

— transfer portal taylor (@bodybycheezits) September 18, 2019

EARLIER THIS WEEK

  • Spotted this backpack on Instagram. What do we think? Cute or cheap-looking? I could go either way.
    • P.S. I also want this poncho. Can I pull it off?
  • SNL put every Stefon moment ever on YouTube in five parts. This made me so happy! I LOVE STEFON. I made a playlist. Enjoy.

Friday Favorites: Stefon

PR & SOCIAL MEDIA

  • A charming short film I am working on got a nice review here!
  • Variety profiled Danny Huston, my friend and former client, here and it’s a lovely piece.
  • The FTC released a packet for social media influencers — will they enforce it appropriately? Doubtful. Sigh.

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT

  • Dolly Parton’s “Heartstrings” are coming to Netflix and I am here for all of it. She’s a treasure.

Filed Under: Pocket Fridays Tagged With: Dolly Parton, Ella Dawson, Nicolas Cage, Pumpkin Soup recipe, Pumpkin the Raccoon, SNL, Stefon, Tom Hanks

Friday Favorites: On the Surface of the Sun

October 25, 2019 By AJ Leave a Comment

Hello, internet, it is me, the unreliable blogger, back with another random batch of “Friday Favorites.” Who’s excited? If you’re not excited, go away. And for my fellow Angelenos, stay cool. It is hotter than all get-out and WHERE IS MY FALL AND WINTER? I can’t take this. 

Friday Favorites

WHAT I READ

  • Every Fall I read this. And every year I laugh til it hurts reading it. Never fails. If you have never read “It’s Decorative Gourd Season….” from McSweeney’s, you should.
  • Mitt Romney has (had?) a secret Twitter account? Sure, sure, why not? 
  • I don’t mean to get all political, but on Hunter Biden. Donald Trump Jr. actually said, “When you’re the father and your son’s entire career is dependent on that, they own you.” Like, without a glimmer of irony or hypocrisy. Because this is where we live now. 

OTHER BLOGGERS & INFLUENCERS

  • This recipe for Banana Pudding Poke Cake.
  • Have you ever made Mac & Cheese in a sheet pan? I’m thinking this is the way to go.
  • Hollywood Picture News recapped all the trailers of the week to help the world make their movie-going decision this weekend. 

Friday Favorites: Hollywood Picture News

EARLIER THIS WEEK

  • I had to take a “sick day” this week. I put that in quotes because can a freelancer ever really take a sick day? But anyway, I binged some Netflix. I tackled documentary Tell Me Who I am, Docu-series “Inside Bill’s Brain: Decoding Bill Gates” and Jenny Slate’s stand-up special. I highly recommend all three.
  • I stopped a woman in a public restroom because I liked her skirt. She had the perfect response: “Macy’s. Alfani. On sale.”
  • I got the new iPhone ProMax 11 and the camera is pretty amazing. I’m obsessed with these photos I took of my pup:

Friday Favorites: iPhone ProMax 11

PR & SOCIAL MEDIA

  • This publicist got real candid about working at a film festival and I am all about her truth.
  • I was on a podcast! Thanks so much to the “Business and BS” team for having me. You can listen here. I’m very proud of it.
  • In addition, my client Micah Brown, who directed ESPN “30 for 30” documentary, “Chuck & Tito,” was on the Adam Carolla Podcast (with Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz). Listen to that here. 
  • Another client of mine, Frank Lesser, was featured in INC. Magazine — very excited for his new series, “You’re Not a Monster,” which is streaming from IMDb! 

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT

  • A couple of really bad ass trailers broke this week. Like the one for Bloodshot:

  • But MOST IMPORTANTLY, the Rise of Skywalker trailer:

Filed Under: Pocket Fridays Tagged With: 30 for 30, Bloodshot, Chuck and Tito, Donald Trump Jr., Frank Lesser, IMDB, Iphone ProMax 11, McSweeney's, Micah Brown, Mitt Romney, Quora, Star Wars

Friday Favorites: Happy…. Fall?

September 13, 2019 By AJ Leave a Comment

Summer is almost gone. I mean, in California, is it ever? But I am ready for this nasty, hot-ass weather to be GONE. I am over it. I am from here and I have just never enjoyed our faux-seasonal calendar. I like a good FALL. A cold WINTER. So there. I’ve been hard at work all Summer long and find myself fantasizing about beaches and islands and hammocks these days. But the truth is, I’ve never been good at sitting still and I masochistically enjoy being an insane work-a-holic. So just ignore me when I bitch about how tired I am. (But don’t because I really love sympathy and attention.) 

Friday Favorites: Happy.... Fall?

WHAT I READ

  • My friend Cassandra published a children’s book and IT. IS. DELIGHTFUL. You should get it for your kid, niece, nephew, etc. 
  • Matthew McConaughey is going to start teaching at UT Austin. The students can now major in “L-I-V-I-N.” 
  • I read this really great piece about Huda Fahmy from Houston, Texas, the illustrator and author behind “Yes I’m Hot in This,” a hilarious and educational book about life as an American Muslim woman who wears a hijab.
  • Silver Lake is one of my favorite LA Neighborhoods and I love this restaurant list. 
  • Chris Evans stopped a Comic Con panel so he could PET A DOG. BECAUSE HE IS PERFECT. (I meant to post this earlier but am just not getting to it. Nevertheless, ENJOY.)

Friday Favorites: Happy.... Fall?

  OTHER BLOGGERS & INFLUENCERS

  • OMG – this recipe from SpoonForkBacon for Grilled Flatbreads Topped with Peach Prosciutto, and Burrata.
  • While I’m at it, this recipe from A Couple Cooks for a whipped feta dip that looks absolutely lick-able.
  • My smart friend, Jessica, explained her stance on the LA City restaurant surcharge that I think is bullshit and a needless nuisance on any check I see it on.
  • Becky got to sneak a peak at The Goldfinch, a movie I am very curious about. I never read the book but do know most of the story…. Should be an awards-season contender, I’d think. 

EARLIER THIS WEEK

  • Cory Booker-face reminded me a lot of Earthquake-face. I’m still laughing about it. Both.
  • Somehow pickle pizza trended. Would you eat it?
  • Do I need this Bulldog candy dish? No. But I want it. 

Friday Favorites: Happy.... Fall?

PR & SOCIAL MEDIA

  • A good article to read if you’re at all concerned with disclosures and that annoying little FCC “#ad” policy.
  • Sometimes Reddit is just the best.
  • I’ve added some new links to my professional portfolio but am particularly proud of booking one of my clients on Marc Maron’s podcast. 
  • Someone is spilling the tea on common influencer complaints. Totally worth a look.

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT

  • I had never seen The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Now I have and I am forever changed.

Filed Under: Pocket Fridays Tagged With: Chris Evans, cory booker, Friday Favorites, Matthew McConaughey, Silver Lake Restaurants, summer recipes

Lazy Sunday: Issa Mood

August 12, 2019 By AJ Leave a Comment

Lazy Sunday indeed. Let’s all be glad I at least showered and dressed myself today because it was a struggle. My pup had me up for a walk at 5:30 this morning, when it was still dark, just in time for the overnight security guard on the neighboring property to shoot me dirty looks as we rushed through. I felt no guilt about going back to sleep for a couple hours after that before we went to our weekly dog park playdate. I stopped at a friend’s house on the way home but the rest of this day was spent in pajamas on the sofa watching horrible bad action movies on cable.

I typically resent play-by-play blog posts so I apologize for the mediocrity of it all.

Lazy Sunday Musings: What's Up, Internet?

WHAT I READ

  • Lady Gaga is funding 162 classrooms in Dayton, El Paso and Gilroy — all cities that have had mass shootings in recent days. She constantly uses her celebrity for good. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
  • Would you try this fried pickle flavored potato chip? I would.
  • How did a Norwegian comedy creep onto Netflix’s “recommended” list? Easy enough when you understand who your audience is… AND have $$$. But I’m not judging them for that. I do think he’s wrong when he says “you can’t blame Netflix.” You absolutely can.
  • This guy tried Mark Cuban’s morning routine for a week — I am a huge Cuban fan and this was a fun read.

OTHER BLOGGERS & INFLUENCERS

  • Check out my contribution to the Hollywood Picture News’ weekly trailer round-up!
  • The Oatmeal shared this guide for dogs on HOW TO WALK HUMANS. It is very accurate.

EARLIER THIS WEEK

  • I’m trying not to do a lot of online shopping these days but I do still enjoy a window shop…. I think this dress is cute. And I love this brand from Anthropologie.
  • I also stumbled upon this very cute subscription service — for plants. Totally something I could get into since I never manage to keep plants for very long but do love having them.
  • I’ve been very into funny tees lately. Very nearly bought this one. Still might.

Lazy Sunday: Issa Mood

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT

  • How about 26 amazing chocolate desserts??? Yes, let me part with you on this video. A perfect way to salivate on a Lazy Sunday. And you’re welcome.

Filed Under: Pocket Fridays Tagged With: Anthropologie, Fried Pickle Chips, J Crew Dress, Lady Gaga, Lazy Sunday, Mark Cuban, The Oatmeal, The Sill

Friday Favorites — I Hath Returned!

June 7, 2019 By AJ Leave a Comment

I am happy to say I’ve been feeling twitchy again — I have the writing bug. I hope that means I’ll be carving out time to post here more often moving forward. I do have some fun ideas and look forward to sharing them. And I’ve been crazy with bookmarking some gems for you this week so onward with the ol’ Friday Favorites!

P.S. Do stay through to the end. The Video Spotlight item is a real gem.

Friday Favorites -- I Hath Returned!

WHAT I READ

  • At long last, a museum dedicated to Broadway is opening in New York. What took so long?!
  • There is a boozy Disney brunch coming to Los Angeles and to say I am HERE FOR IT is an understatement.
  • I read this article which lead me to discovering that Trader Joe’s has a PODCAST! And I am now OBSESSED with it. 
  • I just finished the book Educated by Tara Westover. It was outstanding. Compelling. Give it a read. You won’t believe the life she’s lead.

Friday Favorites -- I Hath Returned! / Tara Westover

OTHER BLOGGERS & INFLUENCERS

  • Social Media Club LA is taking a “field trip” to the Dodgers/Cubs game on June 13! It’s $75 to attend but it includes all-you-can-eat concessions, guys. It looks to be a ton of fun — click here for more info and to get a ticket or four.
  • I don’t know if I am a weirdo for finding this stuff super interesting but maybe it’s in light of what my Father went through recently — anyway, Lizz Porter sent me this link to a breakdown of what dialysis is like for her and so many. Really interesting and I think it’s important to just have an awareness of these things. She is remarkably brave to withstand all she is going through, by the way. This post is from 2017 but she is still going through it. 
  • Tomorrow is National Best Friends Day and so I found this piece from Mayim Bialik to be quite wonderful. Were you taught you could only have one best friend? 
  • I am intrigued by this Bloody Mary Tomato Soup. But, like, can I add vodka to soup? Asking for a friend.

EARLIER THIS WEEK

  • I found this 90s playlist on Spotify – I am so into it!
  • I watched Ask Dr. Ruth on Hulu. MIND. BLOWN. That woman is a mother-effing HERO. I know we all know her as the petite, delightful sex doctor but did you know, for example, she was a SNIPER in the Israeli Army? That is some seriousness, y’all. It’s a must-watch. I highly recommend it.
  • There are approximate 900 people running for the democratic presidential nomination. I do not know whom I am voting for yet. To be frank, I wish the party would pick a horse to throw all its weight and money behind and just work it’s G.D. ass off to defeat Trump, but I guess I’m not gonna get that wish pre-primary. Anyway, like I said, I do not know whom to vote for yet but I do know I very much like Mayor Pete. I like other candidates too but his run seems somewhat monumental and historic, so I bought a hat. Just wanted to share that with you.

Friday Favorites -- I Hath Returned! / Peter for America

PR & SOCIAL MEDIA

  • Soap Opera News interviewed an actor I am working with, Hudson West (“General Hospital”) – take a look!
  • An influencer with 2.6 MILLION followers launched her own fashion brand — only to sell a mere 36 units. My friend and colleague Jack Appleby wrote a tremendous Twitter thread on it (he got quoted in several outlets for it, too!) and you should read and learn.
  • Instagram is going to allow advertisers to promote branded content from influencers as ads in the feed and in Stories – regardless of whether you’re following them. I know brands like us to believe in these trusted voices but I’d still rather choose which voices. So not a fan of this tactic.
  • There are some really sassy, wonderful celebrities out there, speaking up for mankind. Specifically, in recent days, Avengers. Please enjoy:

https://twitter.com/DaveBautista/status/1135315768550273024

https://twitter.com/ChrisEvans/status/1136264161539833856

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT

  • I leave you now with this glorious PSA from George Clooney. Please join the fight to stop dumbfuckery. 

Filed Under: Pocket Fridays Tagged With: Ask Dr. Ruth, Chris Evans, David Bautista, Disney Brunch, Dr. Ruth, Friday Favorites, George Clooney, Jimmy Kimmel, Mayor Pete, Pete buttigieg, Soap Opera News, Tara westover

Friday Favorites

April 12, 2019 By AJ Leave a Comment

Before we get to all Friday Favorites listed below, let me remind you that this past Sunday, in Pasadena, I attended one of my FAVORITE events all year, MASTERS OF TASTE. I pinned a great little Insta-story about it to my Hollywood Brunch feed you should go check out. 

Friday Favorites

WHAT I READ

  • Chris Evans wants to sing on Broadway and I am here for it.
  • Uh….. Patti LaBelle is launching her own line of… FROZEN CHINESE FOOD?
  • This Indiana school district turns unused cafeteria food into take-home meals for kids who need. So wonderful.
  • Also wonderful — the Mormon church will now allow gay parents to baptize their children and it will also stop calling same-sex couples “apostates.”

OTHER BLOGGERS & INFLUENCERS

  • I am all about this recipe for an Eggs Benedict Casserole. Who’ll come over and be my taste-tester?

Friday Favorites: Eggs Benedict Casserole

  • I would also like to try this carrot cake recipe. 
  • Did you catch this thread that went viral on Twitter? I’m SO OBSESSED. This gal is doing the lord’s work, IMO.

Parking in Koreatown, Los Angeles. A thread: pic.twitter.com/GaZrHJ6WeL

— mimi (@Mrhflrs) April 2, 2019

EARLIER THIS MONTH

  • A client of mine, Casey McQuillen, premiered her new music video on EXTRA! She’s so wonderful and so talented. Please take a look. 
  • Another client I am working with, Nick Howard, was on a local morning show here in Los Angeles and he is a GORGEOUS singer. And the anchor’s reaction to his performance is pretty great.

  • I just attended the Digital Summit in LA. For the snark on that, check out my personal Instagram where there’s a Story pinned to my profile.
  • I reviewed my new Jord watch and launched a related giveaway!

PR & SOCIAL MEDIA

  • Social Media Club LA has an awesome podcast panel coming up on April 23! Join us.
  • Speaking of podcasting, expert Kelly Glover, gave a great interview on the space and how to convert listeners to MONEY.
  • Unless you live underground, you probably heard about Disney’s new streaming platform. Frankly, this looks awesome and I am excited as all get-out for it. 

VIDEO SPOTLIGHT

  • I find the Queer Eye “Fab 5” so god damned delightful.

Filed Under: Pocket Fridays Tagged With: carrot cake recipe, Casey McQuillen, Eggs BEnedict, Friday Favorites, Jord Watch, Matsers of Taste, Nick Howard, Podcast, Queer Eye

Check Out My New Jord Watch

March 19, 2019 By AJ Leave a Comment

I was long-ago very anti smartwatch for no real reason, but as soon as I gave in and got one, I became addicted to it. But over time, I must confess I started to miss wearing something more fashionable that could be better combined with my massive bracelet collection to give my wrist a little more high gloss. I started to look around online for what I might wish to purchase but then Jord stepped in at the perfect moment to help a girl out. Check out my new Jord watch!

Check Out My New Jord Watch

My body is not petite so I really prefer mens watches and this Conway design with its dark sandalwood band and burgundy face suits me just fine. I think that deep, shiny burgundy is a gorgeous, subtle accent to the deep chocolate tones in the sandalwood band and I love layering a silver bracelet with it to pick up the stainless steel details on the watch-face. Plus, because it’s made from wood and sustainable materials, it’s incredibly light. Seriously, it weighs next-to-nothing and it blows my mind. What a nice change from all the heavy, designer-y watches out there.

I played around with it a bit and found some other fun ways to style it – using more sparkly silver as well as my brown, leather rope bracelet. I LOVE to accessorize, people, so this is only the beginning!

Check Out My New Jord Watch

Jord (FYI – that’s pronounced “Yode”) is based in St. Louis, where they are constantly developing new designs. The watches are are a sophisticated mix of natural, and largely re-claimed materials, combined with quality movements and components. I appreciate that Jord’s team is focused on creating timepieces that are modeled after a modern lifestyle; that value sustainability, efficiency, and experiential living. For a special, more personal touch, you should know that they size every single watch for the recipient and most of the watches’ backplates can be engraved!

Frankly, in addition to just wearing it, the experience of receiving the watch was my favorite thing. The presentation for each is in a humidor cedar watch box and comes with a cleaning cloth and a six-month supply of JORD Preserve: a custom-formulated wood treatment gel with applicator pen. It’s quite elegant.

Check Out My New Jord Watch

It gives off a high-end jewelry store vibe, don’t you think? I totally put it under a lamp to catch the shine as if I were peaking in a display case at the mall. I’m a goofball.

AND NOW… JORD GIVEAWAY TIME

You may get more detail from Jord’s official website, of course, and do follow them on Instagram (check out #jordwatch for all the pics)! But RIGHT NOW, make sure you enter their GIVEAWAY. CLICK HERE, fill out the form and you will be entered for a chance to win a $100 credit toward any Jord timepiece. In addition, everyone who participates will get a code to take 10% off their next purchase.

Disclosure: I was gifted a complimentary watch so that I could write this post for you with honesty. 

Filed Under: Tech Tagged With: Giveaway, Jord, Jord Watch, Sandalwood, Wood Watch

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"Today I will be classy and elegant. Or, I will spill on my shirt and trip over things."

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