#award-winning draperies

[demasiadasmalasideas]

Traditional Bedroom - Master Large elegant master medium tone wood floor bedroom photo with blue walls

[sjw-themes]

Open - Library Large tuscan open concept carpeted family room library photo with brown walls, a standard fireplace, a plaster fireplace and a media wall

[alexandrastafford]

Traditional Bedroom An illustration of a sizable, traditional master bedroom with blue walls and a medium-toned wood floor.

[uhhleeese]

Bathroom - Transitional Powder Room

[trophykartindia]

Top Reasons to Get Sports Trophies for Your Team

Money alone is not sufficient to inspire any employees. It is one of the 'cold' rewards you’re your profession and does not relate well at their emotional level. To motivate individuals to truly exert optional effort you require keeping them in their own roles. Staff engagement levels have been constantly connected to enhance performance as well as profitability. Non money incentives like social events, vouchers, plaques, trophies, and awards are all superb ways to improve engagement levels within your team. The aim is to become your employees into team members, determined to achieve that championship trophy.

Here is the Top Reasons to Get Sports Trophies for Your Team:

The sorts of Trophies accessible are genuinely unending and the cost differentiation is similarly as progressing. An alternate more cost effective alternative to the sport trophy is a medal with a strip to go around your neck. The award has a ton of profits over the trophy. The main advantage is ease. Medals are not difficult to make, request and boat. They are not difficult to appropriate for people too. Take a running race for case; awards are given out toward the complete line for races going from one hundred to upwards of thirty thousand individuals! It would be difficult to distribute sport trophies to that numerous people. Strips can then be put away on a snare or drapery bar or any place which is an alternate advantage over trophies which take up a great deal more storage room.

Sport Trophies, but, be the last part all with a group of children. There are many types of trophies regardless in the game with snow globe trophies, jog base trophies, and three toned clanging trophies which look like creative statues. The children just feel like a memento of anything sport they are drawn to.

Trophies could be handed out for a different reason. They can be scattered for winning a different event or team game. They could also be utilized for players only and this appears to be the rule for younger kids playing in games or engaged in activities these days. A different way trophies are given is one bigger trophy for a team to share. In these situations, the trophy is on occasion approved around to individual team members to carry onto for a particular period of time it is approved on to the next performer or team member. Another example, the group trophy is shown in a national place for all to observe and appreciate. It might also happen after the trophy has been passed around to differentiate all of players or team members.

Trophykart; leading trophy manufactures in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai offers medals, trophies, awards, plaques are also successful in the place of work for the similar motive that they are so popular in the sports world. Every successful player is extremely top levels of engagement. Even at the local club level where players are not paid, different show up to training consistently and give their all at every game. Yet at the top expert level players are more contented to win a trophy than their multi-million dollar income. The trophy for them is the final success that drives them to hard work. Translating this kind of engagement into the place of work can make terrific results. From side to side, creating a sense of belonging to a team you can inspire this sense of team pride in your staff.

[spine-buster]

The President Wears Prada (William Nylander) | Epilogue 2: A Queen’s Crown

A/N: I know this one is a bit short.  One more epilogue to go, and if you missed my update, it will be posted THIS WEDNESDAY at 7:30pm.  We’re ending the disaster that was 2020 with Aberdeen and Willy!

January 2023

Aberdeen Bloom was freaking the fuck out.  

Anna Wintour just walked into the room.

“Miss Bloom!  Hello,” she greeted, her signature accent filling the room as her dress swayed back and forth.  Every stylish, her boots clacked against the floor as she approached the photographer and set where Aberdeen was about to pose on a beautifully crafted, eccentrically pink upholstered couch in front of styled bookcases holding hundred-year-old editions of books.  

“Hello Ms. Wintour,” Aberdeen said as confidently as she could, shaking Anna’s hand.  Her own dress – a black, high-neck midi-length dress with sheer long sleeves and hand applied golden crystals she was styled in that morning – sparkled in the light of the room.  “It’s an honour to meet you.  Thank you for the profile.”

“It’s not every day a woman sets a record in the writing world,” Anna said.  “I would be a fool not to profile the youngest person to ever receive a Booker Prize for fiction.”

Aberdeen smiled.  Every time she heard that – the youngest person to ever receive a Booker Prize for fiction – she had to pinch herself.  She truly believed her life wasn’t real over these past few years.  Most authors dreamt of being nominated for awards.  Her first book was longlisted for the two biggest literary awards in Canada.  Her second book, published by Coach House again but then picked up by Knopf and published internationally, had won the two biggest literary awards in Canada and had just won the Booker Prize for Fiction, the most prestigious literary award in the world.  She was living in a dream world.

“And you must be the new fiancé,” Anna said, motioning over to where William was standing just out of shot, watching the photoshoot about to begin.  “Pleasure to meet you.  You must be in town to face the Rangers.”

“You as well,” William approached her to shake her hand.  “You made my fiancée’s dream come true with this profile.”

“Well considering how fashionable she’d been on the book tour,” Anna shrugged her shoulders, as if to say it was so obvious to have her in the pages of Vogue.  “I know some of the editors here kept tabs on it.  Did you employ a stylist?”

“No ma’am,” Aberdeen giggled slightly.  If Anna Wintour was about to compliment her on her style, she was going to drop dead.

“Impressive,” Anna nodded.  “Now let’s see the ring.”

Aberdeen held out her left hand.  Anna inspected the ring like a gemologist.  When William proposed with it, Aberdeen was blown away.  He’d designed it himself.  A 4 carat round diamond in a twisted halo design and pavé band.  It quite literally looked like a flower in bloom.  And for Aberdeen’s eyes only, an inscription on the inside of the band in the most delicate handwriting.  “Stunning,” she said, turning to the photographer.  “Make sure you get it.”

“Of course, Ms. Wintour.”

Anna side-stepped to inspect the set.  She took one last look at Aberdeen in her dress and high heels and perfectly waved hair and perfectly applied makeup.  Anna gave her an up-down and suddenly Aberdeen became nervous.  Anna looked towards the stylist.  “We need a crown.  Crowns.”

“Crown?  Crowns?  Multiple?”

“Her novel is titled A Queen’s Crown.  She’s the youngest woman – person – to win the Booker Prize for fiction.  Surely she should wear a crown in her photoshoot.”

“I—I’ll go into the closet,” the stylist nodded, hurrying out of the room.

Anna turned once more to Aberdeen.  “Enjoy.”

***

March 2023

“I’m not about to be murdered by Orla Bloom for not having our wedding in a Catholic Church,” William said as he stuffed pasta into his mouth at the dinner table.  

“But you’re not Catholic,” Aberdeen tried to explain to him, again.  “You don’t understand what we’ll have to go through to get married in a Catholic Church.  There are classes – like legit marriage classes we have to take.  And we have to get, like, permission from the diocese to enter into the marriage and follow a Catholic wedding forma—”

“Listen to me,” William said, interrupting her.  He grabbed her hand from across the table to calm her down.  He knew how stressed she was getting about getting married, if only because there was Toronto and Sweden and Northern Ireland and Scotland to deal with.  That didn’t even factor in hockey, making them only really able to have the wedding within a twelve-week span of the year.  That also didn’t factor in her job, which, between book tours and interviews and appearances and writing her next, also created limited time and availability for their wedding date.  But when she felt his hand wrap around hers, he saw her visibly relax.  “I love you.  We could go down to the courthouse right now to get married.  But this means a lot to Orla.  And I know you won’t say it, but I know how much this means to you, to be married in the same church you went to as a kid in Etobicoke,” he said softly.  “So we’re doing it there.  No ifs, and, or buts.  I’ll take any class I have to in order to marry you.  I’ll donate.  Give my blood.  Whatever.  We’re getting married there.”

Aberdeen couldn’t take it.  She got up from her seat and moved to sit in William’s lap.  She didn’t care that they were at the dinner table, and she didn’t care that William had to push back his chair really quickly to accommodate her.  All she wanted to do was melt into him completely.  “Thank you so much,” she whispered against his lips as she kissed him.  “I love you.  You know that, right?”

William smiled.  “I do.  And I love you too.  That’s why I gave you that ring.”

***

TALK OF THE TOWN: Booker Prize-winning and Toronto-based author Aberdeen Bloom and William Nylander (you know, of the Toronto Maple Leafs) just bought “the last lot on the Kingsway” – an old 1970s style bungalow empty for some time now.  Sources say the couple plan to tear it down (of course) and build their dream home, a Scandinavian-inspired house where Bloom will no doubt produce her next great novels.  Bloom and Nylander will be two blocks away from her former and his current boss, Brendan Shanahan, President of the Toronto Maple Leafs.  Bloom has always said in interviews that she will never leave Toronto, so it’s fitting that the girl who was born and raised in Etobicoke would buy on one of the city’s most exclusive and coveted streets.

***

May 2023

“Vogue is coming to the wedding?  Vogue?!  Like…Vogue magazine?!” Aleida asked as she fed a now two-year-old Helena sitting in a high chair.  Aberdeen smiled wryly before nodding her head.  Aleida was still dumbfounded.  “Like…Anna Wintour Vogue magazine.  That Vogue magazine.”

“That Vogue magazine,” Aberdeen nodded.  “They’re profiling it for an issue, along with my dress fitting.  And then when the house is done, they’re going to do a feature on that too.”

Aleida looked towards Bee, who was just as shocked as Aleida was.  “We need to go shopping for new dresses.”

“We definitely need to go shopping for new dresses,” Bee agreed.  “I better let Aryne know too.”

“Guys, it’s still like, two years away.  We set the date for August 23rd, 2025,” Aberdeen smiled as she reminded them.  “You will have plenty of time.  Plenty.”

“I don’t know about that.  Weddings creep up on you quick,” Bee joked.  Aberdeen completely understood where she was coming from.  Bee and Morgan were getting married in July.  William and Aberdeen were invited, of course, and would be going.  Bee spoke a lot about the planning the past few months and always gave updates whenever the girls were all together.  “I mean, I thought a year would be plenty of time for the wedding.  And it is, don’t get me wrong…but it definitely came sooner than I thought!”

“You need to get the venue sorted now before anything else,” Aleida offered.  “You’re two years out so you should honestly have your choice in place.  But I don’t think there’s any venue in this city that would turn you down.”

“We’ve already booked,” Aberdeen smiled wryly.  She was just full of surprises for the girls today.  They looked at her, waiting for a response.  “The Aria ballroom at the Four Seasons,” she revealed.

“Ooooooooooh,” both women cooed simultaneously at the revelation.  Even Helena join in on the sound.  “That will look stunning,” Aleida commented.  “I can see it now – those floor-to-ceiling windows with flowers hanging and—”

“—don’t forget the drapery over the dancefloor—” Bee offered.

“—the drapery over the dancefloor—”

“—and the centrepieces…big, tall arrangements that stretch up—”

“Ladies, ladies, ladies,” Aberdeen held her hands up gently, causing Bee and Aleida to stop momentarily.  Aberdeen paused for dramatic effect.  “We’ve gotta write all this stuff down.”

The girls smiled and wiggled in their seats excitedly.  “I’m giving you Rachel’s number,” Bee said, immediately mentioning her florist.  “Your last name’s Bloom.  There’s gotta be a shit ton of flowers at this wedding.”

***

July 2023

Aberdeen had tears in her eyes as she watched Morgan and Bee say “I do”.  William had been holding her hand throughout the entire ceremony, rubbing the back of it gently with his own thumb.  When they finally had their first kiss, it was the only point he let go so he could whistle loudly and clap and cheer.  Bee looked extraordinary in her lace dress.  Aberdeen could only imagine what would be in store for her when she went wedding dress shopping.

When the reception began, Aberdeen couldn’t help but get even more emotional.  Knowing what Bee had gone through in her life, and seeing her dance with Morgan for their first dance made some tears fall down her cheeks.  William noticed almost immediately, even though he was behind her; he wrapped his arms around her waist tightly and nestled his head onto her shoulder.   “That’ll be us soon,” he whispered.

Aberdeen nodded her head.  “I know.  I’m so excited.”

“I love you so much.  I can’t wait for you to be my wife.”

“And I can’t wait for you to be my husband.”

“And baby daddy.  Don’t forget baby daddy,” he joked.

Aberdeen giggled.  She knew he said that to make her laugh, because even though these were tears of joy, he didn’t like to see her cry.  “Baby daddy too,” she nodded.  “I can’t wait to have a thousand more little Nylanders running around Etobicoke.”

“We’re going to take over the world.”

***

August 23rd, 2025

Aberdeen looked at her dad as he held his arm out for her to grab.  He looked so spiffy in his suit, and every time she saw him today, he had a giant smile on his face.  It hadn’t left since their early morning wake up call to get hair and makeup done.  He’d cried when he saw her in her dress for the first time.  Now, if it was even possible, his smile was even wider.  “Ready, sweetheart?” he asked.

Aberdeen nodded, linking her arm with her father’s.  “I love you so much, dad.”

“I love you too, Aberdeen.  Every day I thank my lucky stars for you and Siena and Camden.  You’ve brought so much light to my life.”

Aberdeen’s bridesmaids had already walked out – Jacquie, Stephanie, Daniella, Kasha, and Siena as her maid of honour.  She knew Alex would be standing beside William at the front of the aisle, with Camden (now a smart-as-a-whip-16 year old) and some of his cousins there too.  The music began playing.  She took a deep breath.  The doors opened.

As she walked down the aisle with her father, she saw a lot of familiar faces.  Morgan and Bee, of course, cradling a six-month-old Andy.  Fred and Aleida, with a four-year-old Helena in the cutest little tutu-style dress.  Auston, John and Aryne, Zach and Alannah, Joe with his wife and kids, Pierre, Rasmus, Mitch and Steph, Jake, Courtney, and Luna, Justin and Audrey – so many of the Leafs.  Beth Zadakis.  Her editor from Coach House Books.  Her editor from Knopf.  Jason, Jennifer, and their four girls.  Brendan and his wife.  Her grandparents, who came in all the way from Northern Ireland.  Michael and Camilla.  Her mom.

And of course, William.  William, who was wiping tears away from his eyes.  William, who looked so dapper in his tux.  William.  

Her William.

[rymndsmth]

prim & unproper

based on this request from anon, i hope it’s to your liking 😳

a/n: due to your skill set, ray recruits you to help with a special mission. 18+

“Why her then?” 

Your ears picked up on chatter going on between Coach and some guy you assumed was a business associate. The mat pushed back as you bounced lightly on your feet, watching the opponent who was regaining their composure from the last punch you’d landed square in their jaw. 

“Oi,” Coach whistled to get your attention. “Finish it already. I told you to stop playing with your food like some cat.” 

You smirked. He did just instruct you on that before the sparring began, but where was the fun in that? Plus, people didn’t want to pay a bunch of quid just to see someone get laid out in a few seconds. 

As he asked, you finally put an end to the fight with a signature combo. The opponent tried to get a jab in, which you quickly evaded before landing a kick in their stomach. It carried so much force that they ended up against the ropes. 

You shoved a knee into the same spot they took the last hit. While their head was bowed, you spun, lifted your leg mid circle and brought your heel down on top of their skull as you returned to your original standing place. They met the mat with a smack, the only indication of them being somewhat okay was a groan. 

“Happy?” You smiled. 

Coach sighed exaggeratedly. “Come down here, I need you to do something.”

Your body weaved between the ropes as you descended to the floor. That business associate looked like he belonged in the banking district of London, not in the ends that they were. He was a pretty one too, no matter how hard he tried to cover it up with that scowl and his beard. 

“Y/N, this is Ray.” He introduced you two. 

You offered a nod in greeting. “What’d you need from me?” 

Coach got to looping you in on the discussion they’d been having during your practice. Ray worked for Mickey, a man you knew to be equally as charming as he was brutal. 

He was a proper legend in the streets despite being a Yank. Your respect for him, and fear to be honest, were both reasons why you sat out that stupid raid set up by the rest of The Toddlers. You did, however, help yourself to some of that weed. 

Due to that mishap, as Coach explained, he now owed a debt. Ray here needed a companion to help him extract information from someone while their guard was down. Which was where you came in. 

“Because I’m a woman.” You stated matter of factly. “I’m sure a bloke like yourself has a bird, why don’t you just use her?”

“I need you because you’re a woman. But even more so because you can do,” Ray scanned you from head to toe. 

That made sense. You noticed that he didn’t acknowledge your little comment about him having a girlfriend. Another thing that was apparent was the warmth you felt beneath your skin under his gaze. 

“Right.” You gathered yourself. “I guess I’m your girl.” 

                                                           -

A little bamboozled was how you would describe the way you felt at the moment. When you accepted the proposition for Coach, you assumed you’d just have to walk up to some guy in a pub and lure him into an alley. 

That couldn’t be further from the truth. 

Here you were, standing on the curb in uncomfortably high heels waiting for Ray to arrive. The deep plunging emerald dress he’d had delivered to your place clung to your frame, only separating from your skin where a split came to your upper thigh. With the help of your flatmate, your hair was pinned in an updo and your makeup was simple but made bold with a dark red lip. 

Ray’s SUV came around the corner, stopping just in front of you. A little less than effortlessly, you hefted yourself into the high vehicle and clicked on your seatbelt. When you looked up he quickly fixed his head to face forward. Your brows creased, and you peered down at yourself. The dress had ridden up a little higher. 

“You look...nice.” He cleared his throat.

“Thanks, darling.” You laughed. “You look normal.” 

The two previous occasions you’d seen him on, when you met and when he returned to go over the plan, he’d been dressed to the nines. You started a theory in your head that he only owned three piece suits, probably slept in three piece pajamas too. The outfit he wore currently did nothing to dissuade that. A classic black tux with the vest underneath. 

He hummed, starting on his way to the estate where the party was. The drive was going to be a while according to the GPS. Somehow he didn’t strike you as the kind to play music in the car, and he wasn’t very talkative either, so you reclined your seat.  

“If you don’t mind me asking.” Ray surprisingly broke the silence. “Why are you the only woman in Coach’s gym?”  

It was a question you didn’t get a lot, but one that you knew people thought about all the time. They never asked it because of Coach; he forbade anyone from doing so. Ray didn’t answer to him though, so you guess it was fair game. Not that you minded sharing. 

The story was much simpler than you imagined the curious ones believed. Your mom was pregnant with you when she met Coach, and they got together. When you were born, he cared for you like you were his own. To you he was your dad, the only one you’d ever known. 

However, this was before he was the guy that tried to keep the youth out of trouble. Coach was still a bit of a mess himself, and when you were 8, he and your mom broke up. A few years later, she got ill and died not long after. 

That landed you in the foster system, bouncing around and getting yourself into run ins with the cops. At 15, you’d gotten into it with some kid at school they called Ernie, who’d become your best friend later on, and that’s how you reconnected with him. Coach took you in, and you’ve been training with him ever since. 

“He really is a good guy then.” Ray turned into a huge driveway. 

“The best of them.” You nodded. 

He got out of the car and came around to your side. His large hand engulfed yours as he helped you down. You looked around at the other pairs surrounding you, descending from their luxury cars dripping in jewels that could pay your rent fifty times over. 

“Remember the plan?” He whispered.

“Find Berger, lure him away. Easy peasy.” You spoke through your smile. 

Ray made a noise of approval as you entered the mansion. Rich people had to be the wildest you’d ever encountered. What was the need for the big, ugly chandeliers, and excessive drapery in the windows? 

The two of you mingled for a while, with you playing the role of bashful arm candy to nearly Academy Award winning level perfection. The target had been spotted a while ago, but you were waiting for the right moment to sweep in. 

That moment being now, while he was away from his wife. You excused yourself from Ray, giving him the rehearsed line so that he knew to meet you upstairs in two minutes. 

“Matthew Berger?” You approached him after swiping a glass of champagne. “I’ve heard so much about you.”

The billionaire’s eyes shamelessly took your body in before he raised your free hand to his lips. You giggled though there was nothing you wanted to do more than to shove your fist in his mouth. 

“Only good things, I hope.” He smiled. 

“Of course! Although I wonder,” You looked at him through your lashes. “Are you all good, Mr. Berger? That would be quite a shame…”

“Why’s that?” Matthew leaned closer.

It was actually pathetic how easy this was. No matter the amount of money most men had, all it took was some woman making doe eyes and putting on a sexy voice to get them into a subdued state. 

“Because I was thinking about doing something very bad with you tonight.” And with that, you knew it was over.

He was basically drooling as you drank the rest of your champagne, and placed the flute on an empty tray. Never once did his eyes leave yours as you ascended the stairs, fingers trailing along the railing. 

You entered the library to the left as instructed. The door was left open so that Matthew could see you when he walked by. Your hips had barely slipped onto the desk before he appeared. What an idiot. 

“Close the door.” You purred.  

He did so without looking back. That was lucky because as the wood moved to seal the room shut it revealed Ray just behind it. It took everything in you not to burst at laughing at how ridiculous this scenario was. 

“Hello, Matthew.” He spoke after flipping the lock. 

The man nearly jumped out of his skin as he glared at Ray who stood with his hands clasped. 

“What is this?” Mr. Berger failed to hide the panic in his voice. 

“I’ll tell you if you’d kindly take a seat.” Ray gestured to one of the chairs. 

“Or what? You’ll rough me up?” He laughed. 

You hopped down from the desk, stepping around the American so that you too stood in front of him. 

“No.” Ray’s mouth twitched in a half smile. 

He knew you would’ve been waiting all night for this moment. With the unspoken cue he just gave, you backhanded the living daylights out of Matthew. Whether he wanted to or not, he stumbled into a chair. 

“I will.” You shrugged. 

The interrogation went on like that, Mr. Berger managed to find it in himself to be insufferable between blows. You had no problem dishing them as long as he wanted to take them. There was something behind Ray’s eyes as he watched you strike. It wasn’t surprise or approval, but somewhere in the realm of admiration. 

Eventually he caved in, a bit quicker than you liked. There were still a lot more places you had in mind to grab and twist. The man wasn’t built for this kind of stuff though, so you commended him silently for even lasting as long as he did. 

Matthew spilled everything to Ray about how he was trying to undercut Mickey in their deal. It was a conversation you felt like you shouldn’t be hearing. You shifted from foot to foot awkwardly until the exchange was done. 

“If I go to the airport tomorrow and don’t see you getting on your jet.” He straightened up the beaten man’s shirt. “You know what’s going to happen, right?” 

Berger hissed a yes in response. 

“Good. Have a nice evening.”

 You were about to make you way out of the room, but your movement was halted by a hand at your elbow. Ray’s fingers lingered for a moment before he dropped it. 

“Thank you.” He nodded. 

“Don’t mention it.” You returned the gesture. 

His eyes, darker in this lighting, held onto yours. Suddenly it felt like you were struggling to breathe, like the room was filled with thick, humid air. He was calculating, just as you were, the risk of going through with what you were undoubtedly both thinking. 

“Fuck it.” You breathed, rushing to close the gap between you two. 

Ray was ready, grabbing handfuls of your ass while you wrapped your arms around his neck. His tongue wasted no time finding its way into your mouth, starting a battle to determine who would get the upper hand. 

You stepped forward, leading the dance. He didn’t miss a beat, travelling back until his legs hit the desk behind him. Your tongues twisted in a storm, lips maneuvering over and between each other as he blindly swept the contents on the surface to the ground.  

Ray conceded, deciding to move onto sucking your neck. You choked out a moan, getting lost in his warm mouth and the scratch of his beard. He used that to his advantage to spin you around, and bend you over the desk. 

Your hands gathered up the silky dress, bunching it around your waist. With your bottom lip caught between your teeth, you looked back at him freeing his cock from his trousers. He caught you, and gave you a quick smack on the ass. Your mouth parted in a gasp, and remained there as he pushed your underwear aside and entered you inch by inch.  

You arched your back more for him, keeping that curve as you moved your hips back to meet his forward thrusts. Ray’s hands dug in, one on your hip, the other on your shoulder to keep you both steady.  

He was so deep inside you that the difficulty to breathe intensified. Every time he bottomed out, he hit your sweet spot, and knocked the air from your lungs. You could feel yourself getting ready to cum at any second.  

“I’m,” The word came out slurred as you tried to sling together a coherent sentence.  

Ray grunted. “Not yet.” 

He pulled out, flipped you over, hitched your legs around his hips, and entered you again. You swore at the new position, the way he felt driving in and out of you. Tears pricked at your eyes when he decided to add in rubbing your clit in broad circles 

In no time, you were sighing his name, clamping tightly around his cock. Your chest was still heaving with the come down as he looped his arm around one of your knees, lifting your leg for a better angle to fuck you at.  

For the first time, he showed signs of slowing. His eyebrows knitted with the extra effort he had to make in your tightened walls. Ray’s moans started to become more audible as well.   

He slid a hand up your body until it reached your lips. They closed around his index and middle fingers before he moved again to circle your neck. You held onto his wrist, your grip increasing in tension the nearer you got to your next orgasm.  

A few strokes later, your back bowed with your release. Ray pulled you from the desk and into his chest, dropping his head into the crook of your neck as he finished too. You kissed his hair, giving your soul a minute to settle back into your body. 

“Are you alright?” His breath tickled your collarbone. 

“I’m fucking fantastic.” You chuckled. 

Ray joined in as he pulled out. Like a true gentleman, he handed you his handkerchief to get cleaned up. You would hold onto it until you gave it a wash though. He made himself presentable again with your help. You wiped the lipstick you’d left on his mouth away until there was no trace left. 

As much as you enjoyed what had just happened, you couldn’t wait to get the hell away from that party. Ray offered to drive you home, but you shook your head. Coach would want to see you tonight, so you’d might as well swing by the gym. 

The drive was quiet again for the most part, it didn’t bother you. That post sex exhaustion was seeping its way into your bones, so you were glad to be relieved of the effort required to carry a conversation. The only exchange that occurred took less than a minute. 

“I don’t want that-us-to be a one off.” Ray’s gaze remained on the road ahead. 

“Neither do I.” You agreed. 

He hummed, resting a hand on your knee. You placed yours over it, threading your fingers between his. The car rolled to a stop not long after in front of the gym. Ray hopped out to help you down, and walk you inside. 

“What’s this then?” Ernie whistled catching your attention “Prim and Unproper?”

Ghost cackled. “Man wouldn’t strike you but I wouldn’t put it past her.” 

The rest of The Toddlers went wild, someone screaming that they needed to add that to their next song. You flipped them off, and turned back to Ray who looked as if he was partially enjoying their antics.

“I hate to admit it but that’s actually good.” He quipped. 

“Goodnight, Raymond.” You groaned, pushing him back outside. 

Once you were out of view from the rest, you pulled him in for a quick kiss. “Call me later.” 

[darganwattsbirchmoregroup]

Dargan Watts Birchmore Group - 6 Ways To Break Into Corporate Event Planning

There are many event planning careers in the corporate world. While jobs in marketing and event management focus on the most common corporate events (seminars, conferences, trade shows, and appreciation events), some less obvious event-related jobs exist in communications, training and the corporate foundation. Some of the more interesting events are planned through departments that are not specifically focused on external affairs.

If you do look at non-traditional career routes, though, do be sure that your job will include event planning. While some administrative assistants (for example) spend a good percentage of their time managing travel, setting up luncheons, and handling logistics, others spend most of their time on record-keeping and purchase orders.

Dargan Watts and Birchmore Group Inc. are an award-winning, full-service corporate event planning and production company, specializing in staging high-level corporate functions throughout the United States and internationally. These services include: Entertainment, Props, Drapery, Audio-Visual, Staging, Scenic, General Session Openers, Cirque Performers, Top Name Celebrities and Holiday Event Planning. Based in Orlando, Florida they have provided services throughout the world since it's inception over 25 years ago.

According to Dargan Watts, 6 Ways to Break Into Corporate Event Planning are:

1> Meeting Management: For those who want to work 100% of the time in corporate event jobs, the meeting management department is the obvious route. Individuals in this area contract outside services and manage lodging, food & beverage, transportation, A/V, and other expenses. These jobs are often part of the purchasing department, so expense management drives many decisions.

2> Office Support:Administrative support personnel may manage event responsibilities, plan and executes departmental and client-specific meetings, handle travel arrangements, and more. They may also work with outside hospitality vendors, track outside services budgets, etc. With the focus on strong organizational skills, many event planners start their path here and transfer into other event planning roles. Some administrative jobs are more likely than others to offer planning opportunities, so do ask questions before taking such a job with the expectation that you'll get experience with event planning.

3> Marketing and Sales: Whether an organization is sales-driven or marketing focused, the business area of any company coordinates the bulk of events, especially smaller meetings. For marketers, the emphasis is on return investment for the value of events rather than expense management. Most organizations recognize the value of face-to-face activities, and this has led to an increased focus on client seminars, conferences, appreciation events and more.

4> Communications:The communications department of many corporations is responsible for "brand" management. It focuses on business communications, internal communications, advertising, community relations, media relations, sponsorships, and more,. Although event planning is not the primary focus, activities that involve events may include creating a presence for media events, trade shows, mobile marketing, sponsorships, employee meetings, etc.

5> Education and Training: The Human Resources department in many corporations is responsible for planning and executing a range of educational meetings, programs, and events. These may include corporate training programs for new employees, field office training, employee development, and annual employee training.

6> Corporate Foundation: The corporate foundation is a great source for event jobs, and possibly one of the more overlooked areas. A corporate foundation job could be a paradise for an event planner. Positions within the foundation may allow you to represent the business while working closely with non-profit and community organizations. Events are likely to range from small planning sessions to large-scale celebrations, ground-breaking events, formal dinners, and even galas. As a result, people helping to plan foundation events may need to select venues, set up entertainment, work with caterers, and manage logistics.

Work with Dargan Watts of birchmore group to maximize attendance and provide a memorable experience for your audience. You can rely on our successful track record in Corporate Event Planning.

[imherongraystairstrash]

Lucie x Matthew—Part 1

Author’s Note: Hey! People actually read my last fanfic, so I’ve decided to write another! This one is featuring Matthew Fairchild and Lucie Herondale, because I’m absolutely dying to read COG2, and visit my tumblr at least ten times a day just to see if CC posted anything for us. Anyway, this is my way of coping through the long wait. Hope you enjoy!!

“Aww, look at our little parabatai dancing together!”

Lucie jumped a bit, out of surprise.

“Matthew! Where in the seven rings of hell did you come from?”

“Ah, yes. The answer to the question which is a mystery to all man kind. Of course, I can’t tell you, knowing to much is not good for your Lucie.”

Lucie scoffed. Leave it to Matthew to make you more confused after the answer to a question.

“Thank you for those wonderful words of wisdom, I shall remember them ’til the day I shall perish in the pits of hell.”

“Oh, and what a terrible day that will b— did you just say the pits of hell?

“Yes Matthew, although I seem such a sweet, innocent soul, I must tell you, I am a ravenous monster on the inside.”

In that case, fear not my darling Herondale, for on the dreadful day of your passing, I will be happy to accompany you through those pits of hell.”

“Matthew, you of all people should know that you can only come to the pits of hell if you’ve done something wrong.”

Matthew stayed silent after she said that, though Lucie couldn’t comprehend why.

“Matthew, are you alright? Did I say something wrong?”

Matthew shook he head, as though to dispose rid of his haze, and turned to her with his award-winning smile.

“Not at all, Lucie Goosie. Though I do have an inquiry that has been nagging me since the ball had begun.”

“Is that so?”

“Yes.”

Lucie shared a brief glance at Matthew, flashed him a tiny smile, and looked at the people dancing. Of course, there was her brother, James with Cordelia, her parabatai, as well as many other people she recognized, waltzing away through the night. She caught her father talking with—

“Lucie?”

“Yes, Matthew.”

“I have a question to ask.”

“That’s nice Matthew.”

“It’s for you.”

“For me?” Lucie said, pretending to be surprised and very clearly exaggerating.

“No, for Emily Brontë. Yes for you!”

“Oh, how nice!” Lucie said, looking back at her parents talking with—

“May I ask it?”

“No.”

Matthew mimicked having been taken a moral bullet to his heart, falling against a chair and holding both of his hands to his heart. Just as he was passing, Christopher Lightwood caught a glance at Matthew and a confused look crossed his face.

“Are you alright Matthew?”

“No. Lucie has just shot me in the heart, and now I shall drown in a pool of my own tears, for I will never be able to feel love again.”

Christopher turned to look at Lucie. His expression was pure innocence.

“That wasn’t very nice, Lucie.”

“I didn’t shoot him, Christopher.”

“Even worse, she ruined my pride by turning down my curiosity. She’s trying to snuff it out.”  

Christopher had a despairing expression on his face, as though he know that feeling all to well. It broke Lucie’s heart. She sighed, turning towards Matthew. She would only do it for Christopher.

“Fine, ask your question.”

“Huzzah! Christopher my good man, you’re good luck! I have to keep you around more often!”

Christopher looked overjoyed to have helped Matthew.

“I’m glad t—.“

“There you are Christopher. Your father and I would like to have a word with you.”

Cecily Lightwood, Christopher’s mother, was standing with her hands neatly in her of her blue dress. At some point during the last five minutes or so, she had stopped talking to Lucie’s parents, and had turned up behind Christopher with her husband, Gabriel Lightwood.

“Do you mean one word, or many?” asked Christopher, “I can never tell.”

“We have quite a few—” began Gabriel

“Quite a few is an understatement.” said Cecily “You set fire to one of the draperies!”

“Oh, that’s what I had to tell you.” Said Christopher, happy that he remembered. He turned to his parents “Mum, dad, I set fire to one of the draperies.”

“We know, Christopher. We literally ju—” Cecily took a breath. Matthew and Lucie looked at each other and then at Christopher who, seemed unaware of his mother’s distress. 

“Come Christopher.” She said simply, and walked away.

“Bye, Christopher.” Lucie and Matthew mumbled, as Christopher was whisked away by his parents.

After a while in silence, Matthew turned to Lucie.  

“I believe you promised you’d hear what I had to say.”

“Fine. Ask away Matthew.”

“Will you dance with me?”

Please reblog instead of reposting!!

[gibelwho]

Top 5: Directorial Debuts

This Top 5 reviews Directorial Debuts, considering the film that was the opening gambit in a director’s career. The requirements for this list are straightforward - the films considered must be full length and had a theatrical run, so short films (although oftentimes a way into the business for directors) were not counted and neither were made for TV movies. Additionally, this list is considering films that were directed by a single person, so first films with co-director’s were not considered (although some fantastic films fall into this category, such as On the Town or Monty Python and the Holy Grail). The final consideration, although not a firm requirement, was that this first film was an opening artistic achievement that became a launching point for a notable and long career to follow.

Gibelwho Productions Presents Directorial Debuts:

5. Spike Jonze / Being John Malkovich

4. Rob Reiner / This is Spinal Tap

3. Pete Doctor / Monsters, Inc.

2. Alex Garland / Ex Machina

Rob Marshall / Chicago

Spike Jonze / Being John Malkovich (1999): This film was not only the theatrical directorial debut for music video savant Spike Jonze, but was also the first feature penned by the now acclaimed screenwriter Charlie Kaufman. Their appreciation for bizarre storylines and unique artistic sensibilities combined to make a mark on the cinematic landscape of Hollywood and opened the doors for both to careers that continue to tell non-traditional stories. Jonze had to contend with a confounding script, but managed to keep the audiences engaged with the twists and turns, and also tuned into the emotional journeys of his main players, including a representation of real-life actor John Malkovich himself. The film is filled with memorable visual sequences, including an office floor with cramped ceilings, John Malkovich’s point of view shot when ordering bath towels, and the incredible mind-bending sequence when John Malkovich enters the portal into his own mind, encountering a world filled with multiple John Malkovichs.

Rob Reiner / This is Spinal Tap (1984): Not only is Rob Reiner’s first feature a hilarious mixture of conceits with a generous helping of improvisation from comedic actors, but it also launched an entirely new genre - the mockumentary. To keep the documentary feel, Reiner produced a mix of shooting styles, including hand-held cinema-verite style, titles to introduce band members, creating black and white faux television “archival” footage, traditional documentary interview footage, and also capturing onstage theatrics. While most of the humor is in the actor’s improvised lines, the camera is not just silently observing, but also gets into the jokes and elevates the gags with visual commentary. With this film, Reiner transitioned from an actor to an established director and continued into a fabulous career that dipped into a multitude of different genres, producing several films now considered modern classics.

Pete Doctor / Monsters, Inc. (2001): While Toy Story was the original revolutionary release from the new animation studio Pixar (also with a first time director), Monsters, Inc. earns its place on this list because of the genius of Pete Doctor. The film was the fourth feature from Pixar, and the first to be helmed by a director other than John Lasseter. Pixar’s legacy (and now future, as he has assumed the role of Chief Creative Officer at Pixar following Lasseter’s exit for inappropriate behavior), was in safe hands with Doctor, who has consistently produced the Pixar films with the most unique conceits and beloved characters. This all started with his story development and leadership on Monsters, Inc., a film that achieved technical advancement with the realistic rendering of monster Sulley’s fur, but also one of the most breathtaking action sequences Pixar has ever envisioned, involving the hunt for little Boo’s bedroom door amongst a cavalcade of children’s doors, all swirling around madly in the warehouse storage space. Doctor’s first effort at Pixar produced a delightful tale, proving that Pixar could still herald the magic when the reigns were handed to other directors, and setting him up for more delightful classics to be directed.

Alex Garland / Ex Machina (2014): Alex Garland transitioned from a successful screenwriting career to directing with this astonishing piece of art - intellectual, challenging, visually stunning, and with a twisting plot that ensures the audience is on the edge of their seat throughout the film’s runtime. The screenplay was especially tight, as to be expected from a writer of Garland’s quality, but his work behind the camera was also incredibly solid, playing with the various textures of the setting’s remote mansion’s stone, wood, metal, and glass and also with the robot Ava’s combination of machine metal and human flesh. Garland expertly uncoils a new element in each conversation, scene, and session, slowly expanding the audience's understanding of the world and motivations of each character, until an explosive ending that revels in a woman taking control of her own destiny.

Rob Marshall / Chicago (2002): What are the odds that a directorial debut revitalizes the musical genre for a modern audience - and then goes on to win the Academy Award? Rob Marshall’s background as a dancer and choreographer masterly transferred to the filmmaking space - expertly conceiving the musical numbers (and entire film!), using all the tools at a filmmaker's disposal that a live theatrical experience cannot - camera composition such as close ups, crafting pacing through editing cuts, and matching sound to image. In the best tradition of Bob Fosse, newly minted director Rob Marshall set his mark upon the filmmaking landscape and brought back musicals as a viable avenue for the industry - a popular success at both the box office and amongst critical circles. Plus the film is so damn fun, with inspired performances by Renee Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones as the two murderers on death’s row that just want to make it in show business. Each number tops the next and (with the small exception of Richerd Gere’s tepid singing and dancing skills) are executed with such spirit and razzle dazzle. And all that jazz!

Honorable Mentions:

Orson Welles / Citizen Kane (1941): For the movie that is consistently hailed as the greatest cinematic film ever to be made, it is quite amazing that it was created by a first time director who also cast himself as the lead role. After Orson Welles notorious stunt with the radio broadcast of The War of the Worlds (which caused mayhem as many in the public believed the play was in fact news outlets reporting actual happenings), Hollywood courted this untried director, giving him immense freedom inside the usually structured studio system. The result was a film that experimented with cinematography, editing, writing and narrative structure - all which have since been hailed as innovative leaps forward in the conception and construction of filmmaking. While the film at the time was a box office flop, Welles left his indelible mark on the industry after the promotion of his efforts by the celebrated French film critic and auteur theory supporter Andre Bazan in Cahiers du Cinema. The film can be a bit rough to the tastes of modern audiences, including the exaggerated performance style, but its technical achievements are not to be missed.

Frank Darabont / The Shawshank Redemption (1994): Another film that did middling during its initial box office run, but has since achieved the status of cult and critical favorite, came from the creative spirit of Frank Darabont, who adapted a Stephen King novella and, by sticking to his resolution to lead the film, was eventually given the chance to direct the feature. With a tight screenplay, phenomenal performances by Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, and cinematography by the masterful Roger Deakins - it flourished in the rental market and endured to become one of the highest rated films across many critical lists.  

Andrew Niccol / Gattaca (1997): Another writer / new director’s debut contains provocative ideas and powerful imagery paired with striking production design. It is incredible what Andrew Niccol accomplished on a smaller budget, all in service of the story’s dystopian future that feels as though it could be only a few generations away from our own time, where genetics determine a human’s entire future and those who were conceived naturally are condemned to live as a lower caste. The human’s desire to improve their lot in life and explore the universe comes in direct conflict with how science can be used to create fissures in society, enabling human expansion to space, but also limiting a single human’s rights and liberties. Grand ideas and grand design are the drapery for a compelling human story. 

Upcoming

Lin-Manuel Miranda /  tick, tick...Boom! (TBD): Based on the first stage musical by Jonathan Larson, this will be Lin-Manuel Miranda’s first foray into the directorial seat. Since the debut of the smash hit Hamilton, his career has been expanding by leaps and bounds, but he has taken a studied, measured approach to stepping into the director’s role. Miranda cited one reason for signing on to the Mary Poppins Returns movie as a chance to study under the masterful Rob Marshall, receiving a front row seat to a masterclass from one of the best filmmakers to capture musical theater in the cinematic format. Miranda himself was part of a theatrical production of tick, tick...Boom! earlier in his career, so he is very familiar with the material (although the screenplay will need to significantly expand the set of characters from a modest three to include the many roles that have been cast). Unfortunately, at the time of writing, due to the pandemic, filming has shut down; but once they have resumed and the film has a chance to see the light of day on Netflix, I will be eagerly awaiting one of my most beloved musicals to come to life through Miranda’s nascent directorial vision.

[hahamagartconnect]

Untitled (after Charles Howard Hodges)

Ewa Juszkiewicz (born 1984 in Gdansk, Poland) is an award-winning polish artist, predominantly famous for her paintings. She focuses on reinterpreting classic, historic female portraits so that the figures’ heads are replaced by fungi, flowers, bugs, intricate draperies or other surprising, yet disturbing forms. The faceless women are her signature.

[lepeintre-louis-david]

He is named academician- Composition of the Horatii

At this same meeting, the painting contest was judged (note: the Prix de Rome). A work by Drouais should have been included. David had great hopes for this young artist who, despite the ease of his design and execution, was never satisfied with his work. It was this lack of confidence in himself that robbed him of the prize; the subject was the Resurrection of the son of the widow of Naim. Impatient to have the opinion of his master on his nearly finished painting, he realised that, not being able to take out the canvas, he could instead cut it in half and roll it under a large garment. Thus he brought it to David, saying that he had done nothing good, as we could convince ourselves. At these words, David discovered the part he held beneath his cloak.

"My friend, what have you done?" Cried his master. "That's the prize you are giving to another. It is very good. There are things you will never do better!"

"What, sir," replied Drouais." Are you pleased? In that case, for me I have my prize: I have no other ambition, I am delighted that one of my comrades, poorer than I, is advantaged by what I have done. We will thus each have the prize which suits us best.”

The academy this year did not give first prize.

On 6 September, the nomination of David to the title of academician was confirmed as follows:

In opening the meeting, the Secretary read a letter from Versailles, written to M. Pierre, Director, by the Comte d'Angiviller, Director and General Manager of His Majesty’s buildings. In it, he announced that the King had confirmed the election that the company made, during its meeting of August 23, of M. Jacques-Louis David to the position of academician, to take part in its assemblies and receive the privileges, prerogatives and honors allotted to this position. He is responsible for observing the statutes and regulations of the 'Académie, which he has promised by swearing an oath in the hands of M. Pierre, First Painter to the King, presiding over the assembly as Director. The letters of provision were issued to him immediately, in the presence of the assembly, in accordance with the regulations made May 4, 1782, and the new academician took his place.

David signed in the minutes.

At that time, David was working on the composition of the Horatii. In a very interesting study on this work, from which we borrow most of the following details, Péron, his pupil, relates that being at the theater, the master was keenly struck by the situation offered by the fifth act of the tragedy Horace by Corneille. He made a drawing of this scene, where the aged Horace defends his son, who has just sacrificed his sister, before the people. Although incomplete, this drawing contains remarkable beauty. Exhilarated by this work, he expounded upon the idea of his composition before his friends gathered at M. Trudaine's. Sedaine, the poet Lebrun and the architect de Wailly discussed the appropriateness of this episode from the point of view of painting, and were of the opinion that this scene, very moving at the theater, would lose all of its interest on the canvas. They therefore advised him to look for another moment more favorable to a picturesque conception in the Horace drama.

Weakened by the enlightened opinion of his friends, the painter devoted himself to the august and patriotic act of the patriarch having his children swear to die for the salvation of Rome.

After a few attempts at the disposition of his groups, a lictor's figure in the abduction of the Sabines by Poussin inspired in him the proud turn of the elder of the Horatii. But, excited by Corneille's poetry and wishing to render this heroic action in an antique fashion, he regretted not being in Rome where, he said, one can only paint Romans.

It was all the more successful that this work that M. d'Angiviller was included among the artists called for the Salon of 1783, to receive orders for paintings for the King. The government, desirous of taking up the arts, asked from each exhibition twelve works worth six thousand livres, allocated to artists whose talent seemed to him worthy of encouragement. David had proposed the subject of ‘Horace condemned to death for the murder of his sister and defended by his father at the moment the lictors come to seize him’; but having already completed his morceau at the Académie, he was unable to undertake this work. In 1784 he was again appointed to the Salon of 1785. He offered to treat either ‘the defense of Horace’ or ‘the oath of the Horatii at the hands of their father’. However, enlightened by the observations of his friends, he abandoned his first idea to focus wholeheartedly to his second subject.

To paint the Horatii in Rome was therefore his strongest desire; but the difficulties of such an enterprise were of great concern to him, when his father-in-law, having learned the cause of the concern of his son-in-law, induced him to make use of him by saying, "Work for glory, my friend. I will work for the money. "

A last circumstance decided him to accept this generous offer. Drouais had just won the Prix de Rome with his painting of the Canaanienne, in a contest that was a double triumph for David, because the Academy awarded the prize reserved for the previous year to Gauffier, who was also part of his atelier.

The happy fortune of making this journey with a man who had known how to win friendship, and whose talent would be a useful help for the execution of his great picture, triumphed over his last hesitations. He charged the painter Brenet with the direction of his students. He entrusted to the care of Mr. and Mrs. Pécoul his two young sons who had been born, the eldest Charles-Louis-Jules, on the 15th of February, 1783; the second, François-Eugène, on the 15th of April, 1784.

He left with his wife, Drouais, Wicar, the young Debret, his relative and student, and two others, forming in all a society of seven travelers.

Arriving in Rome, says Péron, who had all the details from Debret, David began to work, bringing Drouais into his labors. His first care was to fashion all his draperies with that distinctive taste which he possessed to such a high degree. Droauis drew them on paper to be transferred to canvas. Then David sketched his picture in full; When the sketch was made, he set forth the figure of the Horatii, whom he painted as complete and finished as we see them today.

The whole picture was finished in eleven months. Drouais painted the arm of the third Horatii in the background and the yellow cloak of Sabine. David had also asked him to paint Camilla's figure on his sketch, but the master on his return said to him: "What are you doing there? It's a figure of plaster." After having erased it, he redid it entirely. All the parts of the picture were executed with that conscientiousness and applied ease which is the best manner, and possessed only by those who have fought and overcome great obstacles of execution.

However, could we believe it? the only part that really hurt him and stopped him seriously is the left foot in front of the father of the Horatii. David erased it and started it again twenty times. "At last," said David, exhausted with fatigue, "I did it again and again from time to time. These discouraging obstacles are common in the practice of art, and usually present themselves, as at the foot of the Horatii, only for objects the least important and least anticipated."

[tampabaylifestylers]

How about a trip?

TBL will be visiting Hedo 2 next summer. And we want you to “cum” with us! If you call Char Travel at 215-321-4451 and tell them that you're with the Tampa Bay Lifestylers, Char will give you $50 off your package price for the June 8 – 13, 2019 trip!

WHAT IS HEDONISM?

HEDONISM IS THE SEXIEST PLACE ON EARTH, WHERE YOU CAN BE WICKED FOR A WEEK!

Hedo®, Hedo 2®, Hedo II®, H2®, or HII®. No matter what you call it, Hedonism II is the world’s most iconic adult playground. An all-inclusive paradise where you can turn your fantasies into reality! Experience what you only read about in erotic novels and let loose! Be as mild or as wild as you like! People travel to Hedonism II from all corners of the world to live out their fantasies, to escape their inhibitions, to play. Life is too short. Do it now, before later becomes never. Your Pleasure Is Our Passion!

He.don.ism: (noun) the pursuit of pleasure; sensual self-indulgence. synonyms: self-indulgence, pleasure-seeking, self-gratification the ethical theory that pleasure (in the sense of the satisfaction of desires) is the highest good and proper aim of human life.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Wondering What to Expect When You Arrive at Hedonism II?

Expect a personal paradise where you can explore and enjoy all your hedonistic desires. A place that feels like a second home complete with a friendly, helpful staff that’s ready to assist you as you discover all the sensual pleasures Hedonism II has to offer.

As Master of your own domain, you are free to be as mild or as wild as you wish. Indulge in all the allure life has to offer. Tantalize all your senses from the scent of a crisp ocean breeze to the taste of a favorite top-shelf cocktail. Indulge in the decadence of gourmet meals crafted by award-winning chefs. Feel the pillow-soft sand beneath your toes, the brilliant sun as it envelops and warms you with its glow and take in the panoramic vistas of Jamaica’s world-renowned 7-Mile Beach that edges our newly renovated resort.

Expect All-Inclusive Gourmet Dining and Premium Cocktails

Hedonism II has garnered numerous awards for its cuisine, and no other all-inclusive resort in Jamaica can compare to the number of premium brands served here. Our world-class dining includes several open bars, three specialty-cuisine restaurants, beachside grills and a buffet-style dining terrace.

Expect to Have Unrestricted Fun, Your Way!

Hedonism II is the world’s most iconic adult playground. It’s a place where people from all over the world come to live out their fantasies in a sensually charged environment. Whether you want to slow down for some R&R at the spa or pick up the pace with some games and entertainment, our countless amenities like volleyball, scuba diving, snorkeling and tennis will keep you having fun whether you’re in the water or on land.

Expect to See Naked People

Hedonism II is a lifestyle-friendly, clothing-optional beach resort where you can do pretty much what you want when you want. Our dining areas require clothing, but, if you want to take it all off on our beach or pool areas, go for it. If you prefer a little cover up, that’s absolutely fine, too.

At the end of the day, life’s too short to wait for pleasures. Get those deep kisses, amazing experiences and midnight swims, or hot, lustful encounters while you can. Memories of all of it will bring a twinkle to your eye and have everyone guessing about where you went on vacation.

Expect the Chance to Enjoy Our Playroom

Yes, the rumors are true. We have a playroom. It’s called the Romping Shop. It is an environment purely designed for pleasure and play, a place for you to experience your deepest desires in a decadent, exotic setting. Imagine soft lighting, white flowing drapery, soft fluffy pillows on beds surrounded by waterfalls – perfect for stargazing through the open rooftop. It’s an intimate atmosphere, sultry, sexy and beautiful.

Expect the Vacation of a Lifetime

There’s a reason our guests come back time, and time again. Our pressure-free, no-judgment, pleasure-seeking utopia is a little slice of heaven on earth where people from all over the world to come together with the simple desire to pursue pleasure and live life to the fullest. Between the chance to make amazing memories with new life-long friends and our unwavering commitment to first-class hospitality and superior 5-star service, you can be certain you have the vacation of a lifetime! Don’t take our word for it, see what our guests are saying about staying at Hedo.

Swinger and exhibitionist-friendly all-inclusive resort on Seven Mile Beach

Designed for adventurous people who want to add a bit of spice to their vacation, the all-inclusive Hedonism II is a popular upper-middle-range nudist resort tucked into a quiet, secluded section of Negril’s Seven Mile Beach. With a wide variety of activities and entertainment, this adults-only resort encourages guests to explore their wild side and indulge themselves. There are both a “prude” (clothing optional) and a “nude” (totally nude) section of the resort to accommodate different comfort levels, and property highlights include the nude beach, theme parties, and a variety of pools and whirlpools on both sides. And guests that want to explore the area are close to a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops in downtown Negril.

The fact that this resort has "Hedonism" in its name should give some indication as to the scene here. This adults-only property draws a mostly mature crowd (in their 30s to 60s), including large parties (such as the Tampa Bay Lifestylers) of like-minded (that is to say, open-minded) guests looking to socialize, and in some cases, swing. But besides exhibitionists and swinger couples, and some single travelers, there are also plenty of mellow couples & singles just looking for a little bit of raunchiness and liberation. The resort is divided into sides to accommodate different comfort levels; on the nude side, nudity is required at the beach, pool, and hot tub.

The nude pool is the liveliest (and most PDA-centric) part of the resort during the day, while at night, the most sensual activities take place at the Romping Shop Playroom where condoms are provided, with mirrors above every bed, and nightly themed parties (Leather and Lingerie, Toga and Foam, to name a couple) also enhance the mood. There are plenty of non-sexual activities, too, including water sports and cornhole toss. The vibe is not only respectful but secure: Upon arrival, guests pass through security gates before reaching the circular drive and open-air lobby. Guests can walk right through the lobby to the large main buffet restaurant and dining area, which features a big stage and open doors to the rest of the resort.

Tampa Bay Lifestylers Hedonism II Trip

Tampa Bay Lifestylers first group trip to Hedonism II, Jamaica.

Hedonism II, where it all began, is the ultimate adult lifestyle playground and remains to be nourishment for the mind, body, spirit and soul - the pleasure comes in many forms!

Overview

June 8 - 13, 2019

The Tampa Bay Lifestylers group are extending the fun from Florida to Jamaica. Join us as we host the first TBL group trip the the hottest adults-only resort anywhere - Hedonism II, Jamaica.

Venue

Hedonism II Negril, Jamaica

Getting There

Fly into Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. Airport code MBJ.

Char Travel provides the complimentary direct, round trip transfers to the resort and back to the airport for our guests; the bus ride is about 1 hour 20 minutes. If you wish, there are several small commuter airlines that run flights to the Negril airfield across from the resort. Flights are about 15 minutes.

Rates and Accommodations

Garden view Regular (Clothing optional – Formally known as the Prude side)

Ocean view Regular (Clothing optional – Formally known as the Prude side) Garden view Nude-side Ocean view Nude-side

Jacuzzi Rooms Upgraded and Premium rooms

Themes

Hedo 2’s Current theme nights:

Monday – Jamaican Night Tuesday – Bare as you dare Glow party Wednesday – Fetish Fantasy Leather and Lingerie Thursday – Toga Foam Party Friday – Rocking Rock star Saturday – Hats & Heels Sunday – Naughty School Reunion

Tips

Take advantage of our Club MoBay VIP arrival and/or departure service.

Nearby things to do

Walk the 7-mile beach past all the other resorts

Visit Margaritaville. Enjoy the many restaurants in Negril. Take a cab to Rick’s Café and watch, or join the cliff-jumpers. Catamaran cruises are available from the Hedo beach. Have lobster at the Office of Nature beach bar.

Contact Char directly to request a quote at:

https://www.chartravel.com/groups

215-321-4451

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"Thou Art ..., Will Give ...", Photographs by Eric Kunsman, Red Filter Gallery

“Thou Art …, Will Give …”, Photographs by Eric Kunsman, Red Filter Gallery

The Drapery, Eric Kunsman

Well crafted imagery is a key to understanding Eric Kunsman’s award winning photographs …

 The body of work created demonstrates a previous attempt at prison reform from the popular European model in the 1800’s. The images help viewers to understand how many things have not changed over the passing of time whether that relates to the crimes the prisoners committed or…

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Lev Yashin - The Best Goalkeeper of All Time

An alternate title to offer thinking about that Yashin played during a time where football was positively less serious than it is today, determination for the Russian National group was to a great extent dependent on political associations more than ability and he presumably played close to twenty games out of his long profession in "the west". However there can be no question that Yashin was an uncommon and monstrous ability, who regardless of whether he had showed up on the scene even after ten years would have been significantly all the more a legend as opposed to he is today.

Conceived and raised in the grave Moscow of the nineteen thirties, Yashin endorsed for the renowned Dinamo Moscow sports club in 1949 where he played in his popular all-dark soccer uniform till he hung up his boots in 1971, During that time Yashin won the USSR association title of the USSR multiple times just as the Soviet Cup multiple times. For some odd reason, Yashin additionally played in objective for Dinamo Moscow's ice hockey group and surprisingly won the USSR ice-hockey title as a goalkeeper.

In spite of his enormous goalkeeping abilities, Yashin was simply called up to the public group without precedent for 1954, and from that point proceeded to play multiple times for his country, which was a surprising accomplishment in those occasions, when extensively less internationals occur. With Yashin in the middle of the sticks, the USSR group came to three World Cup finals (1958, 1962 and 1966), in spite of the fact that they were then, at that point, as today, horrible un-achievers in the last phases of the World's most esteemed soccer competition. Anyway regardless of the USSR turning in their standard thing "dim exhibitions", with their best being fourth spot in 1966, Yashin got the attention of the vast majority of the main European clubs with strong exhibitions. He made four clear sheets out of the multitude of 13 games that he played in the three World Cup finals. Reports had it that the strong Real Madrid were keen on carrying Yashin to the Bernabeu, but the people pulling the strings in Russian game were not ready to consider that the "dark insect" would rehearse his exchange on the opposite side of the iron shade.

Albeit the USSR group consistently did generally ineffectively in the World Cup, with Yashin in objective they won the 1956 Olympics soccer gold just as the debut 1960 European titles. The Russian triumph was not a major accomplishment, as only 17 groups entered the competition with West Germany and Italy declining to participate, and Spain pulling out as opposed to going to Moscow to play in the second leg of the knockout stages. The finals, held in Paris, were a four group issue and Russia won a regularly "iron drapery" last 2-1 after additional time against Yugoslavia

Lev Yashin is especially recalled in the Western world for his exceptional exhibition in the 1963 FA Centenary match. Yashin was selected to play in objective for the 'Remainder of the World XI' against the England group at Wembley Stadium. The group looked on in wonder as Yashin made some of the amazing unfathomable recoveries. To a great extent on the rear of this single exhibition Lev Yashin (and his well known all-dark soccer uniform ) turned into the main goalkeeper at any point to win the European Footballer of the Year Award in 1963.

For his extraordinary support of individuals and for his country Yashin was granted the Order of Lenin (1967), the most elevated honor of the USSR. FIFA surveys set Yashin in the "Century XI" group, and furthermore named him 'World - Keeper of the Century' in front of England legend Gordon Banks among others.

Peruse Soccer Uniform broad assortment of soccer packs.

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➖ DISCORD YOHJI YAMAMOTO ➖ Now available at Sects Shop Singapore - Address: Orchard Gateway #04-14 Online: www.sectsshop.com #discordyohjiyamamoto #yohjiyamamoto #sectsshop - About: The multi award-winning Yohji Yamamoto is known as the grand master of avant-garde tailoring. His signature oversized silhouettes in black often feature drapery in varying textures that defies definition. Born in Tokyo, Yamamoto graduated from Keio University with a degree in law in 1966, but soon after graduating, he realised a law career was not for him, because in his own words “I didn’t want to join the ordinary society.” Today, Yohji Yamamoto’s new ideas are materialised through a new line of luxury accessories, Discord Yohji Yamamoto - an innovative bag and accessories collection that boldly reflects the label’s moody aesthetic with a spirit of rebelliousness. (at Singapore) https://www.instagram.com/p/CT56xtZB3PT/?utm_medium=tumblr