www.maggieng.com

POINT A TO POINT B

Growing up, I remember having chats with my big bro about the cars he liked and disliked, which he would most likely end up buying and how to drive stick.  Before that, I never really paid attention to cars and/or what they can do.  Who really got me going was one of my instructors from Advertising Design College who was a car fanatic!  He used to create ads for a car company before teaching. Cars were so ingrained in his DNA, he would draw cars and make car ad references in class ALL the time!  From that point on, I started to appreciate car design, different classes and brands of cars and their performance.

By no means am I a car expert of any sort…just a simple enthusiast.  Almost every year, I’d make a trip downtown to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre to catch the Auto Show. This year was no exception.  At this year’s show, you’ll see glimpses of Bumble Bee from the blockbuster movie Transformers and KITT from the TV show Knight Rider.  There is also a section with iconic classics such as Camaros & Firebirds – some that are vintage and look like its never been driven a day.  These muscle cars require so much fuel, that you could actually smell it in the room.

Something new to Canada is the Fiat (fiatcanada.com).  A brand from Italy, it reminds me of a “car version” of Vespa – small, compact, with a retro-feel and cute as heck! Speaking of cute, Scion’s iQ (scionnation.ca) looks like a regular-sized car that got squished from the nose and back, making it compact as ever. I think it’s definitely going to give the Smart Car a bit of healthy competition.  Having never been in one, I took a quick seat in a Smart Car (thesmart.ca) and to my surprise, it felt quite roomy considering the size of the exterior. Perhaps good things do come in small sizes.

Just because a car is small, doesn’t mean it can’t be fast.  As everyone was oogling over the Audi R8 (which is a fine piece of art indeed), I decided to check out the Audi TTS instead (audi.ca).  With Quattro all-wheel drive, how on earth does it go from 0-100km/hr in 5.1 seconds you might ask?  Yes, it has 265 horsepower @ 6000rpm, but the all-wheel drive will automatically shift power where it is needed most depending on the situation (ie. 80% rear/20% front, 70% rear/30% front, etc). Pretty sophisticated technology I might say!

What about comfort? Must one sacrifice style over practicality?  Mercedes Benz says NO!  I stepped into an S600 and I was in heaven!  The leather seats are built with an orthopedic design to be ergonomically correct for the lumbar of your back.  Climate comfort front seats allow you to heat or ventilate according to your personal temperature preferences.  And hello…massage function included!!!  Ok, so I failed to mention the car starts @ MSRP $189, 000, but lemme tell yah, once I got in, I didn’t want to get out!

So which car do I like the most?  Can’t really decide, too many choices! And it’s hard to pick without actually getting to test-drive any of these puppies. And some people say, different cars exudes different personalities?  My sister always envisioned me driving a VW Beetle. I always thought I suited a Mini. But honestly, I prefer motorcycles over cars. I was glad to see at the show that Honda came out with a new CBR 250R motorcycle (Honda.ca) but I guess that’s a whole other story! For now, I’m driving a used beater car to get myself from Point A to Point B. It lacks air conditioning, power windows and anything fancy, but I’ll give it props for reliability. I don’t have any immediate plans to upgrade just yet, but it’s always nice to look.

Whether you drive to show off style or ride the super highway in comfort or don’t even own a car at all, the Auto Show is a great place for all levels of enthusiasts. My apologies for not mentioning about the hybrids, SUVs, trucks, domestics and all other brands, but if you want more information, you should really go and see the show for yourself! There are so many experts dying to give you information/brochures/posters/etc. The CIAS runs from Feb 18-27, 2011 and is an annual show in case you miss it this year.

For more information, please visit : www.autoshow.ca

Happy driving everyone!

Article : Maggie Ng [TorontoTV]
Photos : M Studio Life
Venue : Metro Toronto Convention Centre

On behalf of TorontoTV, I had the privilege of doing media coverage for HOT TOPIC’s recent expansion into Canada, along with an exclusive interview with Rock Band “Disturbed” just before their autograph signing session @ Scarborough Town Centre.

CREDITS
Media Coverage : Maggie Ng [TorontoTV]
Video : Joseph Lau [TorontoTV]
Location : HOT TOPIC [Scarborough Town Centre]
Rock Band : Disturbed
PR Firm : Lotus Leaf

The 16th Annual Canadian Hairdressers Mirror Awards 2010 – like the Oscars for the hair world in Canada, this is one of the most prestigious awards show that honours and celebrates some of the best in the Canadian beauty industry.
The night started off with a lovely prime rib steak dinner with vegetables, salad and a delectable dessert.
Part of the entertainment for the night was a talented performer: Amanda Morra.  The Toronto vocalist (combined with smooth dance moves) rocked the night with singles “The Music” and “The 1 and Only”.
Publisher – Joan Harrison, up on stage to say a few words.  Beside her, MC – Nicole Holness (from MTV Live) hosts the nights’ festivities.
Then comes the awards presentations.  All nominees are announced along with their finalist photos on the big screen.

Above Photo: Jacob Rozenberg – Winner of British Columbia Salon Stylist

Winner of each category comes up on stage to receive their trophy and gets to make their “Thank You” speech.  Congrats goes out to all winners, especially to Hairdresser of the Year – Darek Wierzbicki of Studio 237 & GLO Day Spa, who gets the highest honour of the night.
A spectacular performance and tribute to the late Michael Jackson.
For more information or to view all winners, visit: www.canhair.com

CREDITS
Article & Media Coverage: Maggie Ng [TorontoTV]
Above Photography: mstudiolife.com
Event: Canadian Hairdresser Mirror Awards
Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre

When it comes to women and their spending habits, it’s been said that “shoes” takes first place and not far behind is “hair”.  Hair, being a billion dollar industry, one of the biggest hair trade shows that took place February 28 to March 1, 2010 was the Allied Beauty Assocation (aka ABA) Hair Show @ the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Photo courtesy of www.mstudiolife.com

The theme this year was “Shape Your Knowledge”.  This trade show featured hair competitions, platform hairstylists doing demos and educational seminars, as well as hair runway shows.  Above photo, we have Redken’s Sean Godard showing off some of his hair skills.  His motto is “The only way you can be the best is to be surrounded by the best.”  Working with top artists in the industry, Godard was recently chosen as one of eight International Redken Artists to create a look for the new collection “The Inspiring World of Redken” for their 50th anniversary.

Amongst all the action/educational seminars happening on all the different stages, brands from L’Oreal, Redken, Wella and Rusk to name a few were all present as vendors.  One new hair product to look out for was L’Oreal’s new INOA Hair Colour System – with no odour, no ammonia, infinite colour power and absolute respect of the hair fibre, it’s perfect for the client with a sensitive scalp.  A unique highlight point of the product was the pre-dosed mini-tubes of colorants – makes for exact measurement and takes out the guess work. The Oil Delivery System respects the hair’s natural protective film after 1 to 5 applications.  It’ll definitely be a new era in professional hair colour.

Photo courtesy of www.moroccanoil.com

Cash and Carry distributors amongst other manufacturers were a HUGE rage…lineups were insane!!!  You can definitely score some awesome deals at the show.  I stopped by MBI to pick up an awesome tweezer, as well as Alternative Beauty for a couple of inexpensive curling irons, it was great!!!  Moroccanoil was giving out free samples throughout the day.  They’ve got the best hair treatment on the market.  It instantly absorbs into the hair, creating an instant shine without leaving an oily residue.  Folks, you have to try it out!

Whether you’re an industry pro or just a beauty junkie, this show is a one-stop shop for all your professional needs (hair, nails, aesthetics) under one roof.
For more info for next years ABA Toronto show, please visit www.abacanada.com

Article & Media Coverage: Maggie Ng / TorontoTV
Venue: Metro Toronto Convention Centre

The Toronto Paragon Lions Club was founded in 2006 by a group of dedicated business women in Toronto. Their youth chapter, Leos Club, was established in 2007. Both groups work together, along with passionate volunteers, to organize a yearly charity fundraising gala to benefit a variety of community service providers.

The 5th Annual Toronto Paragon Lions Club Charity Gala took place on Sunday, February 7th, 2010 @ the Sheraton Parkway Hotel, Richmond Hill. The event will support a few causes: Canadian Red Cross – Haiti Relief Fund, Markham Stouffville Hospital and Markham Miracle – Haiti Reconstruction Program/Free The Children. It was an exciting night composed of a silent auction, door/table prizes, raffle draw, dinner and performances (from Tai Chi to singing from Mayor of Markham, Frank Scarpitti, etc).

The Toronto Paragon Lions Club hopes to raise over $250 000 over the course of 3 major charity events, with this event being the first one. Thanks to all that donated generously their time, money and efforts. TorontoTV supports and wishes the TPLC all the best and success with all their events.

Media Coverage & Article: Maggie Ng/TorontoTV
Videographer/Producer: Joseph Lau/TorontoTV
MC: Joseph “Bigham” Tsang & Tiffany Mak
Venue: Sheraton Parkway Hotel

How does one define true art and figure out a price tag to go along with it?  Art, which is something purely subjective, was found at the Toronto International Art Fair Oct 23 – 26, 2009 at the Metro Convention Centre in all forms, shapes and sizes.  It was the show’s 10th year anniversary and a well-deserved celebration.

Pieces that caught my attention:

*ORU rock sculptures – made in 3 different sizes and 3 different finishes: carbon black, stainless and patina…these life-sized rocks could be used as a coffee table, seat or however creatively desired. www.troopstudio.com

Photo courtesy of www.troopstudio.com

*Sophie De Francesca Silver Belle Dress (Canada 1967), galvanized steel, stainless steel aluminum $7,700…the elegant dress captures the essence and spirit of the woman who wore it.

Photo courtesy of www.gallerysusandewitt.com

*Beyeler Foundation (2009) by Patrick Hughes, oil on board construction…3D painting – as you walk from left to right/right to left, the painting moves with you…it was unreal and brilliant.  www.metiviergallery.com

Patrick Hughes, Beyeler Foundation, 2009, oil on board construction
Photo courtesy of www.metiviergallery.com

I saw a painting of a “red rectangle” and it was listed for $22, 000.  I thought – wow, how does one figure out a price tag and what inspires one to purchase it?  Is it one’s establishment?  Detail of design?  A “red rectangle” – would that not be something anyone can replicate?  Is there something special that perhaps I do not see that another may pick up on insight?  What gives it its worth?

At Art Toronto, there were over 20, 000 pieces of art on display for sale, starting from $500+…despite our recession, sales surpassed expectations this year, according to Holly Beetham of Applause Communications.  So much for the ‘starving artist’…but even if you weren’t there to purchase anything, enthusiasts can thoroughly enjoy and appreciate the vast variety of collections on display.

Art has always been a very fascinating concept that I continue to explore each and every day.  I found myself inspired after the show and painted an abstract 12×12 painting shortly after.  Whether my few dabbles of paint is now worth a lot or little, I found it priceless to just be able to express myself on canvas.

For more information, visit: http://www.tiafair.com

CREDITS
Media Coverage & Article: Maggie Ng [TorontoTV]

If you never know what to get for that person that has “everything”, then check out the One-of-a-Kind Christmas Show happening at the Direct Energy Centre from Nov 26-Dec 6, 2009.  With over 800 artisans; everything from fashion, accessories, art work, photography, home decor, body care, etc…the possibilities are endless.  Typically these vendors are independent or family ‘mom & pop’ businesses who carry unique, majority hand-made goods that are extraordinary and rare.

Photo courtesy of www.oneofakindshow.com

It’s always interesting to see different people and how they started a business from possibly a hobby and turned it into their passion and life.  Many of the vendors have participated in the One-Of-A-Kind show for decades and are going on strong.  Shirley from Ear Curls (www.earcurls.com) says she travels throughout Canada participating in over 100 shows a year to promote her business.  One of my favourite booths to visit is Tickleberry’s (www.tickleberrys.com) who offers free samples of their chocolate covered dried fruit to passerby’s…their marketing tactic is get them to try it once and get them hooked!

Throughout the week, you can enjoy various fashion shows, check out the Tea Pot Competition presented by Lipton Pyramid Teas, get inspired by the Hall of Fame display and so forth.  There really is something for everyone…and if you’re not in the shopping mood, come down anyway to appreciate some of the art and hard work each vendor has put forth.  Maybe you’ll get inspired to start your own gig.  Hey, you never know…those scarves you’ve been knitting for your boyfriend or those hand-made soaps you make for yourself could turn into your next exciting business venture.

Cheers and Merry Christmas everyone…

For more information, visit: http://www.oneofakindshow.com

CREDITS
Media Coverage & Article: Maggie Ng/TorontoTV
Videographer: JK/TorontoTV

Open to makeup artists, industry professionals and all enthusiasts, Make-Up Artist Magazine presented IMATS – International Makeup Artist Trade Show on Nov 21/22, 2009.  With the grand venue of the Heritage Court of the Direct Energy Centre, there were over 35+ exhibitors:  displaying industry products for sale, makeup school promotions, and all things make-up!  Throughout the 2 days, there were a # of demos, key speakers, and even a student make-up competition.

Some of my favourite booths were:

Face Atelier – their Ultra Foundation Pro is such a hit. It is silicone-based, so the silicone acts as a built-in primer.  It glides on so smoothly with a flawless, almost airbrush effect on skin.  Their products were selling for 40% off at the show.

Yaby – created by makeup artist Liz Yu, had an array of beautifully coloured palettes; compact and customizable – perfect for makeup artists.  Brilliant!

Hakuhodo Brushes – only one of the softest and highest quality makeup brushes on the market from Japan – your tools are your greatest investment.

Roque Cozzette, Director of Makeup @ Kett Cosmetics, judges the Beauty/Fantasy Student Competition, while Show Director Michael Key walks behind him.
Photo by Deverill Weekes.

Airbrushing was huge at this show – numerous models were airbrushed with intricate art on their bodies, it was so unique to see.  I stepped up to Roque Cozzette from Kett Cosmetics, who applied some of Kett’s Hydro Proof foundation on my hand and it totally did not budge.  Perfect for them brides who cry like no tomorrow and for covering tattoos.  Pretty heavy duty stuff, formulations and technology has definitely come a long way with makeup.

Whether you’re a pro in the industry or just someone who loves makeup, definitely check out the show next year if you missed it…you can network with other industry professionals, score some great deals and learn a thing or two from the key speakers/demo artists!  If you’re a student, give the competition a go and make your mark in the industry b4 you even graduate.

For more info: http://www.imatsshow.com/toronto/toronto_index.php

Media Coverage & Article: Maggie Ng/TorontoTV

Summer Night Youth Music Festival by TorontoTV

Produced by TorontoTV and sponsored by SEAS Centre TTV Youth Development Fund – we decided to promote local young talented singers to perform songs at venue: Tea One.  It was held 3 Friday nights in a row…each night with 4 singers.  They sang anything from English, Cantonese and Mandarin.  We even had a girl play a chinese harp…it was beautiful.  In addition, we raised up over $300 worth of donations to support the Taiwan Typhoon Relief.  Door prizes were also given away to spectators.  It was so much fun and was a great series event. Good job to everyone who participated and thanks to all that came out to support.

Week 1

Week 2
Week 3

CREDITS
MC/Hosts: Mena Ho & Maggie Ng
Audio/Sound: Audiopath – Darryl
Graphic Design/Poster: E-Image
Videographer: JK
Photographers: Stan Trac, Eriq Yu, Oliver Yeung
Executive Producer: Joseph Lau & Anita
Gift Sponsor: Ada Ip & Collins Chan
Production Team: TorontoTV
Sponsor: SEAS TTV Youth Development Fund
Venue: Tea One

Featured in TorontoTV News Issue #20 re: Creative Inspiration