Atlanta – David Nienhuis

Our April 2013 Atlanta member of the month is David Nienhuis – whom you all hopefully have met at our events in Atlanta.

Tell us about yourself- who are you and what would be the short story of your life?(where are you from, where did you study, how did you come to Atlanta etc)

I hold a Dutch passport and was born and raised in Europe (Germany, Luxemburg, Belgium) until the age of 15 – I then moved to the US with my family where I did my High School and University studies before moving to Paris for almost 5 years. I came to Atlanta to work for the 1996 Olympic Summer Games and have been here ever since.

What is THE thing about Atlanta captivates you the most?

Since moving to Atlanta, I have witnessed the many changs this city has gone through over the years. The international presence and influence of the many cultures and countries represented in this city is what keeps the Eurocircle Atlanta events fresh and exiting to coordinate every month.

Do you think living in Atlanta has in any way enhanced your work experience?

Yes – I was fortunate to be part of this city when it hosted the Olympic Summer Ganes. Since then, I have been working in the International Freight and Logistics Industry, which has allowed me to build and establish my career in Atlanta.

If someone asked you what I should NOT miss while in Atlanta, what would you reply?

Atlanta has so many things to offer but a ‘typical tourist must see’ would be the Coca Cola museum, Atlanta History Center, Fernbank Museum, Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Park…honestly, I wold just tell them to browse the internet and pick and chose their preference of things to do…

What do you do in Atlanta when you feel like you just want to chill out?

I enjoy riding my motorcycle (and bicycle) in the Atlanta suburbs or just sitting on a patio with friends somewhere in Brookhaven, The Highlands, Decatur or Midtown, depending on the the of atmosphere I’m in the mood for.

Anything truly memorable that has happened to you since you have lived in Atlanta?

I have lived in Atlanta now for the past 18 years (the longest I have ever lived anywhere at one time), so I have experienced a few memorable events and hope to have many more to come…

What really annoys you about Atlanta– or maybe nothing does?

A lot of people complain about the ever increasing traffic but having lived in other parts of the world, I think it is still manageable in comparison, especially if you know the back roads. I do wish the public transportation (especially MARTA) would be more destination friendly throughout the city. Other than that, there isn’t really anything that annoys me about Atlanta…except maybe the pollen season…

Do you have a favorite Atlanta restaurant?

One thing no one can take away from this city is its great selection and ever expanding choices of restaurants. I have several restaurants I frequent often and I especially enjoy authentic Chinese and Thai cuisine (thanks to my travels to these countries) as well as Indian cuisine. However, I also occasionally enjoy the ‘true southern foods’ that are offered in many of the Atlanta restaurants.

Do you see there are benefits for someone from abroad to come to Atlanta for a few years?

Absolutely – I came to Atlanta with intent to leave again after my job ended with the Summer Olympic Games. However, like so many other expats and internationals I have met throughout the years, once you live in this city, it is very easy to call Atlanta ‘Home’. The US (and Atlanta) are so different from Europe and other parts of the world that it can only be beneficial to live here and experience the many great things this city has to offer.

What do you think about the cost of living in Europe vs Atlanta – and the standard of life and life style?

Hands down…for the same money, you cannot beat the lifestyle and living standard that Atlanta has to offer compared to Europe and even many other US cities. Having lived abroad as well as a few other US cities, I know first hand that life is good in the ATL…

In your opinion what is the best time to visit Atlanta?

Early summer or in the Fall as the months of July and August typically get very hot and humid)

Expatriates in Austin: Austin Hungarian Association

If you’ve ever wondered if there is any organized group for Hungarians here in Austin/Central Texas, you’ll enjoy meeting Genevieve Kent. Every group is unique, let’s hear her group’s story.

Who are you and what group do you represent here in Austin??

My name is Genevieve Kent and I am the Founder of Austin Hungarian Association.

What is your role with the group?

Currently I am serving as President on our first elected Board. We are in our 2nd year of operation, and it is a joy to continue to see the group flourish and help it become a community run organization.

What does your group want to accomplish?

The goal of Austin Hungarian Association is to build an easily accessible, inclusive organization which meets regularly and promotes Hungarian culture. We strive to connect native Hungarians, people of Hungarian descent, and people interested in the culture by organizing fun events that highlight some of the great aspects of Hungary – the music, dancing, food, and holiday traditions.

What would make you really happy as an accomplishment with your group?

We are currently operating as a nonprofit under our umbrella group, Austin International Folk Dancers. One of our goals is to get to the point where we have enough funds saved up to apply for our own 501(c)(3), so we are currently planning some really fun events to help raise the funds so we can make that happen.

How do you think it is working out, what are your biggest obstacles and the best surprises that have come along?

Our first year was a smashing success, and it just keeps getting better. One of my major obstacles when I started the group was running it by myself, so it is a relief to now have 5 board members who are as excited about our group as I am. I never would have guessed that we would be hosting the Hungarian Ambassador to the United States during his stay in Austin little over a year since I began the group, and I’m excited about what other opportunities are around the corner.

How many Hungarians are there in Austin area and how is your membership??

Up until I began the group, I really had no sense for how many Hungarians actually reside in Austin. One of the best surprises has been watching the group grow as people find out about it – sometimes Hungarians who have been living here for the last 20 years, sometimes from newcomers just moving or visiting from Hungary who want to make some friends during their stay, or people whose grandparents are Hungarian who want to get back in touch with their heritage.

What kind of activities do you do and how do you fund the groups activities?

We do a variety of get togethers to accommodate our membership. We try to do at least one event per month, like a Happy Hour during the week, a Hungarian movie night at a local cafe, or a picnic for the whole family on a Sunday. Our most recent event was an elaborate traditional Hungarian Easter celebration, which we charged tickets for in order to cover the costs – but in general we like to keep the events at little to no cost to the public. We are fortunate in that our raffles and silent auctions have been a big hit, and featured Hungarian folk art and cookbooks that you can’t find easily around Austin.

What is the most captivating thing about Austin for you?

By far the diversity in people and music. One of my favorite events that we did featured a traditional Hungarian band who was visiting all the way from Budapest who played with several other local Eastern European musical groups. The fact that so many people from different backgrounds enjoyed that event so much (and are still talking about it a year later!) just goes to show that Austin is the perfect place for cultural communities to thrive and share their traditions.

What would you tell a visitor not to miss in Austin?

Come for the live music, stay for the barbecue! Nothing compares to a great night out on the town followed by some good late night barbecue to top the evening off. Austin is a city where you can find tons of different kinds of music every night of the week, and as a native who grew up here, I take it as a challenge to enjoy all that Austin has to offer, and support local musicians as much as I can.Post

Where do you go in Austin to chill out?

One of my favorite new places in Austin is the Russian House – although you won’t find me chilling out there – I love going there to cut a rug to whoever they’ve booked, from a hot 1920’s jazz ensemble to a balkan brass band. It’s impossible to go there and not dance. They also offer an amazing selection of infused vodka and Russian / Eastern European food, not to mention gorgeous decor.

How would someone from abroad benefit by coming to Austin for a few years?

The great thing about Austin is that while it’s in the heart of Texas and still holds on to that wonderful Southern Hospitality, there is so much diversity here that people are much more open to other cultures and ways of life. It is the perfect place to cultivate an open mind and still appreciate all the local customs.

When is the best time to visit?

Definitely March through May – before it gets hot!

Have you connected with the other international groups in Austin?

We love going to events put on by Austin Intercultural Network, and of course, EuroCircle!

Right now, AHA is gearing up to host a Consular Day with the Hungarian Consulate General who will be visiting from L.A. Locals whose parents and/or grandparents were born in Hungary are encouraged to apply for a Hungarian passport. More info here: http://us5.campaign-archive1.com/?u=616a0b8caf5d4996b7d114388&id=be73308c6f

My website, http://austinhungarianassociation.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322748184423299

 

Austin – Apr 26 2013

Photos © Eurocircle. For privacy reasons we ask you not to copy these to Facebook or other social networks

Arabian themed party at Russian House with a belly dancing class, live music, DJ, vodka specials, etc. Wear your belly dancing outfit and come have fun with us!

Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. A bunch of EuroCircle members & friends will be hosting this 1000 Nights event at the Russian House !

You will have an opportunity to get Mehndi tattoo by Anju Garg!

Saadi Monwar Band at 9 pm
Live Belly dancing by Phara
Fig and Raisin Vodka special $4
1001 Night Cocktail $6

We will see you all there!

Elena, Lesya, Phara Austin, Yelena, Varda & Vladimir from Russian House of Austin, Kaisa and more TBA

“A terrible sultan marries a new bride every night, and in the morning he executes her. Only Sherehezade, the greatest story-teller the world has known, has a chance to soften the heart of the man with a tyrannical grudge against all women”

Chicago – Apr 25 2013

Revised roger flyerThe long awaited event is here!!!! EuroCircle Chicago is beyond thrilled to be part of this amazing event, because who doesn’t love all things Duran Duran?!?! One of the greatest British bands. Don’t wait to get tickets because they will go fast!

Legendary drummer of the seminal rock band Duran Duran takes over the decks for one night only, bringing his signature club party “Do It In Heels” in this uber special birthday tribute to one of the greats!

ROGER TAYLOR OF DURAN DURAN (U.K.) – Special Birthday DJ Set Also spinning – CURLEY & CASTRO

Mention EUROCIRCLE for FREE ADMISSION before midnight!!! $10 after…BUY TIX NOW

FOR TABLE RESERVATIONS – mae@spybarchicago.com

SPYBAR
646 N. Franklin (between Ontario and Erie)
10pm-4am | 21+ | parking/valet available
LIKE Spybar on Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/pages/Spybar/143751708992927
CHECK Spybar OUT online – www.spybarchicago.com/
FOLLOW Spybar on Twitter – @spybar

Houston – Deniz Kabuloglu

Our April 2013 Houston member of the month is Deniz Kabuloglu – whom you all met at our last event in Houston.

Who are you?

I am a Mexican/Turkish multimedia artist living in Houston. Currently taking photographs of chimps for a show to help the Jane Goodall Institute, and on my spare time I promote my Tequila brand OneShot. I have a bathroom blog and am a lover of the moments between the moments. I am constantly trying to learn new things.

What does being an ‘artist’ mean to you?

Art is my way of existing. Bad art is art that isn’t made from the heart. I consider myself a creative person. I hate being type-cast. I am a woman, I am a human.

What do you create?

I create versions, visions of me. My feelings and opinions towards life and the world. Circumstances, moments..

What inspires you?

I am inspired by life, what goes on around me, the absurd, human relations, animals. Some of my favorite artists are Da Vinci, Hopper, Picasso, Basquiat, Baker, Caravaggio but I am also fascinated by people that have transformed each industry by following their dreams, like Jane Goodall or Diana Vreeland. And I also love the realness, rawness of problems, of bureaucracy, whenever I can I am re-reading a Kafka book. I believe the world is more malleable than you think, I also believe in magic moments that go unnoticed, and I stay there, mindful.

What is your favorite medium with which to work?

I would say whatever’s at hand. I think you have to play with what you’ve got.

I am constantly evolving in my medium. I never want to ’mold cakes‘. I love to challenge myself, to do what I haven’t tried and to never settle. And that reflects in each of the projects I have planned. There’s so much to do in the world, to just be interested in doing one thing would limit my life. I do it with purpose, I think each of us has a rent to pay for being given this gift, time. And we should all collaborate in our own way. I enjoy hearing other forms of thought and closing the gaps between this contrasting world we live in. As humans, we are capable of beautiful dreams and horrible nightmares, but we are not alone. And I am positive.

Which of your pieces says the most about you as an artist? Why?

I think each piece I have made is a universe in itself, full of detail, thought and some improvisation, but the character I created io, who lives in art and travels through life, encompasses a lot of what I am, I’ve done and want to do. It’s just full possibilities, as we all are. io is on a journey, we’ll see what comes next.

How does Mexico play a part in your work?

It is my roots, my history, my culture. It reflects on everything I do wherever I am

What do you hope to accomplish with your pieces?

If by doing what I love I am able to help raise awareness about the issues that I care about, just that alone would make the whole experience a great achievement to me.

What’s next?

I’m working on several different projects at the moment but although most of the time I am very busy, I’m also definitely a laid back lazy person and you can often find me just sitting with the ducks at the park. I love jokes and listening to music for every moment. My current main purpose is being dedicated to supporting endangered species of animals through my work.

What’s your advice for artists just starting out?

Don’t do anything for money, do what you love. Don’t let anyone tell you no. There is always another door. Persevere for what you really want.

You can learn more about me at www.kabuloglunonsense.com and about what I do at:
www.kabuloglunonsense.com,
www.kabuloglu.com/

Rome – Caron A. McConnon

We love to feature some of the more interesting members in Rome. This month you meet Caron A. McConnon, she is American and Flavio who runs EuroCircle Rome warmly suggested her. Caron has had an interesting journey.

Tell us about yourself- who are you and what would be the short story of your life?

Proudly named after my mother, Caron A. McConnon Sr. I was born in Georgetown, Washington DC and raised in Alexandria, Virginia. I pursued a career in online marketing and business development, seminar and program planning at a Non-Profit organization for 13 years, while raising my daughter, Brittany. Brittany has blessed me with my granddaughter, Jayla, who is the apple of Nonna’s eye! My deep love of diversity and travel brought me to global places such as Morocco where I learned the customs and Moroccan Arabic in Casablanca.

After experiencing Morocco I knew that I was interested in living abroad and spent time in Italy where I fell in love with the Italian language (who doesn’t), lifestyle, fashion and their love and appreciation for family values. I returned several more times, visiting the eternal city of Rome where I now call home and moved here for good in 2007 (for love of course, what else….). The best part about my move here was having the ability to build my own home in one of the seven hills of Rome, in a little northern part of Rome called Riano.

What was your work experience after moving to Rome?

With a stellar resume in hand which showcased a multitude of wanted skills it wasn’t so tough to infiltrate into the job market in Rome. I started working at a small Marketing Firm called Mebius and then after one year there changed over to Venere.com (an Expedia Global Company) as a Marketing Director for their online Affiliate website program. I was then graced with an opportunity to teach Business English at UET, in Rome, within the European Tourism Masters Program. This afforded me a chance to touch many young student lives from all over Italy, who I can proudly say after graduating from my course are in my industry and doing well.

What is THE thing about Rome that captivates you the most?

Experiencing the ancient and modern-times in this eternal city each day is the thing that still amazes me! You have a mix of modern technology right beside some of the most ancient ruins in the world! The contrast of how things were and how they currently are today shows you just how far we have evolved. The extensive beauty surrounds one famous piazza after another in and around the historical center. They are still digging and I hope that it never stops! Everyone should go out and walk around to fully understand the gorgeous scenery and historical sites. Rome is breathtaking in so many aspects.

Do you think living in Rome has in any way enhanced your work experience?

Rome is the epicenter of Tourism and Travel. it has afforded me the ability to open my own company and assist in job creation for young and talented University graduates from all over Italy. We have City Directors that are given the space and responsibilities as a mini CEO of their regions. My career as well now has the international attention it was longing for! I relocated to Rome for love but I am extremely fortunate to have it all here in Bella Roma!

If someone asked you what they should NOT miss while in Rome, what would reply?

There are some hidden wonders that “regular” tourists may not know of because they are too busy looking and reading the Rick Steve’s travel guide book and Tom Hanks and Woody Allen missed shooting them for Hollywood. My “hidden secrets of Roman life” include dinner at Ciampini’s in the glass gazebo with the perfect view of St. Peters Basilica. Ciampini’s is an outdoor terrace Restaurant that sits at the top of the Spanish Steps. There you will find the most incredible wine and culinary surprises that the eternal city has to offer. Next, the view from the top of Castel Sant Angelo either first thing in the morning or right before closing time to catch the sunset beaming off of the Tiber River. For a healing and sobering experience everyone should see the newly renovated Cripta dei Cappuccini, Chiostro del Bramante and the fresco trompe l’oeil dome at the Chiesa di San Ignazio. As well, they have excavated the baths and opened the underground near Circus Maximus where previously slaves worked to heat the Roman water supply.

What do you do in Rome when you feel like you just want to chill out?

My favorite place to walk around and chill out is on Tiber Island in the summer time or in Trastevere which is also called the Jewish Ghetto. Rome also has many great parks to walk and take naps under beautiful pine trees, like at Villa Borghese. On the weekends there is nothing better than playing American Football in Villa Pamphili with friends and afterwards heading over to Mamas Ristorante for a pizza in the Northern part of Rome in a town called Labaro.

Anything truly memorable that has happened to you since you have lived in Rome?

Many things! I fell backwards into the Trevi Fountain while on vacation and after getting engaged on the Spanish Steps, I moved back here to stay! Had a fairytale wedding in Rome. My true Roman experience though has to have been learning the language and building a beautiful villa in Riano from the ground up.

Last but not least starting my own Travel Company and learning Italian laws….yes they do exist…just not for driving.

What really annoys you about Rome – or maybe nothing does?

There are the “normal” relocating difficulties when an Expat decides to make a move, however, what I worry about the most are the daily dangers of driving and parking in Rome. For many expatriates and visitors this beautiful city appears to be in almost a state of anarchy when driving on the roadways. The city cannot expand it’s public metro due to the old Rome being underground and each time they attempt to excavate the work is stopped (as it should be). Most of the time Rome is in gridlock and it is difficult to get across town. As well, the parking really gets to me…..as they will leave their cars parked with flashers on in the middle of the street (which already lacks space for normal traffic to pass). But, as they say…..when in Rome…do as the Romans do!

Kaisa: I have heard better be prepared the phones do not work, internet does not work, electricity does not work – just don’t lose it as a friend said…a new attitude??

Rome and Italy in general has a real lack of connection to the Internet and Phone services. Some places will have free wifi, but you must be on one of the Italian networks and have a SIM card from Italy in your phone to use that feature, which most travelers don’t have. Funny true stories about cell phone coverage or the lack of good connection is common dinner banter around here. At any given time your cell phone could ring, on the outter screen it states one of your contacts and when you answer, it’s another person calling to speak with his mother. Sometimes it’s funny and sometimes it’s annoying, again, just Rome. As well, calls drop off frequently and loss of service is also common throughout the mountains and in the Southern areas of the country. Internet is very costly, so most people have modem’s through telecom Italia at home , then there is also fastweb (which is not so fast unless you are plugged directly into a line) and both of the leading cell phone companies offer Internet as well. 4G is just starting to come over to Italy in places like Rome and Milan, but won’t work outside of these major areas.

Electricity, Italy buys their electricity on the open market mostly from France and they do not have any nuclear power plants due to the concern about radiation and cancer (while 99% of the country smokes a pack a day). So if the city or an area of Rome has over used it’s daily allowance of power, the electric company ENEL shuts your house / apt. or hotel down until the next day. Most hotels have backup generators to keep the AC going in the summer months. The scariest thing about the lack of electricity here is that there are multiple streets and highways that are without lights on them, adding to the already dangerous driving conditions. This is partly a fiscal issue with Rome as well.

Do you have a favorite Roman restaurant?

Yes. Mama’s in Labaro, Via Flaminia 2. It is owned by an American Entrepreneur, Lara Viscuso. She runs a truly friendly, affordable and welcoming place for couples and families to dine out. There is a beautiful patio for a night of dining under the stars. And the music is always easy listening. However, best to call for reservations (06 33614537). If you are staying in the center then my favorite place downtown is at the top of the Spanish Steps called Ciampini’s – Ask for Marco the owner and tell him that Caron McConnon sent you.

Do you see there are benefits for someone from abroad to come to Rome for a few years?

I feel that learning a second or third language is a major benefit for everyone. Rome has a multitude of free language groups to learn Italian which meet up at interesting places in the city center. As well, all of the cultural experiences you will encounter, meeting a widespread of diversified people from around the world is a major plus and learning how to cook the SLOW FOOD way can all be achieved in Rome!! However, I do feel that during this tough period of the last 2 years, the expansion of business growth from abroad has dwindled due to a shooty government and the Euro zone taking an economical bath. So seeking new opportunities within the Italian workplace or investing in their market right now is tough and to be honest not the best idea.

What do you think about the cost of living in the USA vs Rome – and the standard of life and life style?

The cost of living in the US is nothing compared to the cost of living in Rome or the EU in general. My fellow American’s have no idea how blessed they are, even in these very difficult and challenging economic times. The major purchases we make such as fuel, homes, food, electronics, energy and transportation are all considerably more expensive here in Italy. We purchase gas in liters, not gallons and in 2013 we have to hang our wet laundry outside on a rack to dry under the sun due to electricity costing so much (true story – I bought a dryer when I arrived here in 2007 and have never turned it on). The price of food, going to the cinema, dinner out and entertainment are all much more expensive here in Rome. The standard of life, well that could really swing both ways depending on the day in Rome. At times, you need the art and the beauty of this city to help you get past all of the local transportation strikes (that seem to always occur on Friday’s). Rome has only two real social classes, ones with money and the ones without. There really isn’t a middle class to speak of and their immigration policy is really an open door which makes the city sometimes a dangerous place filled with street beggars and folks selling knock off brands on the sidewalks (a bit like New York City at times with a lot less police on the streets).

In your opinion what is the best time to visit Rome?

The best time period to visit the eternal city is when the sunny weather starts, normally at the beginning of April. September and November are packed with festivals catering to the wine, cheese and olive oil tasting events. In the month of August Rome is much quieter and steamy hot, almost too much, as well most of the Romans head for the coast and it’s a ghost town.

Anything else you feel you’d like to share with us about Rome or yourself?

CMC World Travel & Tours are offered throughout Italy and around the world! We have two office locations to assist you with all of your travel needs and planning both in the US and in Rome, Italy.

We specialize in Family Vacation Planning, Villa Rentals, Large Groups and Religious Pilgrimages, Honeymoons, Destination Weddings and Cruise Shore Excursions at every port across the globe, including Asia, the Middle East and beyond! Our tours and shore excursions are smaller and led in a more personal group than the cruise ships.

Website: www.cmcworldtravel.com
Like and Follow us at Facebook: www.facebook.com/CMC.World.Travel
For Direct Bookings contact our Toll Free Reservation line at : (877) 671-3235

Philadelphia – Christine Pfister – Pentimenti Gallery

We plan to feature some of the more interesting members in Philadelphia. This month you meet Christine Pfister, she is Swiss – and one of the most intriguing ladies in Philly.

Hi Christine, tell us a little about yourself

Christine Pfister,Co-Owner and Director at Pentimenti Gallery. Honorary Consul of Switzerland in Philadelphia.Member of the Executive Committee of the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia

Where are you from?

I was born in a wonderful, storybook like place, in Switzerland. My hometown was a more than 500 years old medieval town, nestled into a scenic setting, with snowy mountains on one side and a beautiful lake on the other. I grew into a teenager that longed to explore America, having been exposed again and again to the American dream on television, and life brought me to the United States.

How did you fund your business?

My husband, Tom, originally opened Pentimenti Gallery in 1992. In 1995 he asked me to take over and give it wings to fly. Here I am, after 18 years, enjoying the best time of my life in Philadelphia, between my relationship with the art, artists, collectors, friends and family.

How many hours do you work a week and how much is spent is your home office?

I work 40 hours a week at the gallery and on top countless hours from my home office after my children are in bed.

How would you rate your success?

It is not up to me to rate my success and to be frank I’m not concerned about it. What matters the most to me are the individuals I met. They are really what have made my work a rewarding journey for me.

What has been your biggest business struggle as an entrepreneur?

Time. It is perishable, it is irreplaceable and it cannot be saved.

What advice would you give to a new entrepreneur?

Never to think it is not possible. My husband opened Pentimenti Gallery in 1992 in the middle of a recession and after outliving several I had to be a believer!

How do you manage all of your personal and business activities?

My family is my priority. It is the reason why I get up in the morning and why I work hard. So I decided to follow this simple rule many years ago: concentrate on working when you are at work so that you can concentrate on your family when you are at home.

Have you had anything (opportunity, job, etc.) since moving from Switzerland that you never would have expected?

Yes, to be appointed Honorary Consul of Switzerland in Philadelphia in December 2011.
I merged into the world of the art, culture and commerce with great enthusiasm. My active professional life here as well as in Switzerland with the creation of several projects made me the perfect candidate

The honorary consul’s position differs from that of the ambassador or other full time diplomatic corps who work at embassies in career foreign service roles. While ambassadors generally serve in their assigned foreign country for 4 years, honorary consuls are there for a longer period of time. The role of the Honorary Consul is to help facilitate and expend the network of culture and economic between both countries, to assist Swiss and Americans in all fields of life and strengthen Swiss-American relations, friendship and common understanding.

Have you had much experience with EuroCircle?

I very much like the dynamism of the organization and Sherry Kumar is fantastic! I wish I could attend more events. But my favorite is the EuroCircle’s Power Cocktail at the Four Seasons every summer.

Website: www.pentimenti.com
pentimenti
christine pfister
145 north second street | philadelphia, pa 19106

New York – Kristina Ann Cammareri

Our April 2013 member of the month is Kristina Ann Cammereri – Co-Founder of the Arctic Circle Finns of New York – who has a very mixed European background.

Hi Kristina, tell us where are you from?

England & Finland. My dad is half English and half Irish, mom is Finnish. I was born in the UK and my family moved to Finland when I was 10.

What is your Occupation?

Marketing & Event Co-Coordinator, promo model

What are you currently working on?

I’m currently working on a couple of Fashion events with Nygard fashion. The founder, Peter Nygard, is from Finland too. I also just secured a new sponsor who’ll be working with me in the Fall.

How long have you been a Eurocircle member?

For 5 years, since I came to New York

When did you start the Arctic Circle of Finns?

Three years ago.

What kind of events do you plan through the group?

So far we have arranged gallery openings, fashion events and shows, jazz concerts, charity fundraisers, and happy hours. The majority of our members are Finns or friends of Finland.

How did you get into event planning?

I worked in the travel industry for years. I was also contracted as a charter flight coordinator for NASCAR, which gave me great experience. When I moved to New York I started working in the financial sector, but was constantly asked to help out with events. I started volunteering and organizing fundraisers. Eventually I started Arctic Circle Finns of NY and moved into the marketing department of the same company I had worked for since moving to NY.

Where are you based?

New York City

What’s it like being where you are from?

It’s funny because when people hear my last name and see what I look like they never think I’m Finnish! Finland is such a unique place that I’m really proud to be from from there. I’m also so grateful that I get to be a part of the Finnish community in New York and share my culture with others.

What fun things do you like to do in New York when not organizing events?

I live in NJ with my family. With 2 dogs and 2 kids we don’t have a lot of spare time. We love going to the beach, traveling, and trying out different restaurants.

Where can we find about the Arctic Circle Finns of NY

http://arcticcirclefinnsofnewyork.blogspot.com/,
https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/124831687541899/

Houston – April 17 2013

Cha Champagne and Wine Bar
810 Waugh, Houston, Texas 77019

Our April event is totally cool! It will satisfy your taste for wine, champagne and multimedia ART. Come to CHA Champagne & Wine Bar, mingle with other culturally diverse members from many different countries and enjoy io multimedia ARTSHOW by a local artist who is also a EuroCircle member, Deniz Kabuloglu.

I’ve seen her work and impressed by her creativity and unique style.

You DON’T WANT TO MISS this event.

Expatriates: British in New York – Meet Jacqui Stafford

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to be a fashion stylist in Manhattan, you’ll enjoy meeting Jacqui Stafford from United Kingdom. A beautiful British lady who also was one of the very first members of EuroCircle New York. Everyone’s story is unique, let’s hear Jacqui’s story.

What are you currently working on?

I just released my debut style book, “The Wow Factor: Insider Style Secrets for Every Body and Every Budget”, published by Penguin, and I appear twice a week on QVC for Isaac Mizrahi as a fashion expert. I’m also the style expert on the Steve Harvey Show, and one of the fashion contributors on the Today Show, so I’m extremely busy. I have a personal style business, where I help women establish an easy wardrobe that flatters their body shape and fits into their lifestyle. jacquistafford.com/style-me-jacqui/

How have the last 12 months been for you?

Insane! I just finished a multi-city book tour with Estee Lauder and Swarovski, and I’ve also been working as a brand ambassador for Slim-Fast, Bali Intimates, Olay and Woolite, so it’s been an exceptionally busy year. In addition, I collaborated with Built NY to create a limited edition Kindle cover, exclusively for Amazon

What does fashion mean to you?

I believe that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to look fabulous. It’s really all in the way you style the pieces as an ensemble, and how you use accessories, such as scarves and statement necklaces, to create incredible looks.

Which fashion designers or fashion icons do you look up to?

I love everything from Isaac Mizrahi to Malandrino to Theory to Zadig & Voltaire to J. Crew. Basically, you can find gorgeous pieces anywhere at any price.

Where do you get your inspiration?

Like many Europeans, I’ve lived and worked all over the world (London, Paris, Hong Kong, Canary Islands, New York) so I draw my inspiration from all the countries I’ve been lucky enough to spend considerable time in.

How would you define your personal style?

European casual—with a British quirkiness.

Where are you based?

New York City, on Madison Avenue.

What’s it like being where you’re from?

A as a Brit, I have a very pragmatic point of view; and can never take the entire fashion industry too seriously.

What’s been the highlight of your career to date?

Probably being nominated One of the Ten Most Interesting People in Hong Kong by Hong Kong Magazine, and also appearing live on NBC’s New Year’s Eve in Times Square with Carson Daly.

What are you hoping to achieve over the next 12 months?

My goal is to help teach more women to understand their body shape in order to take the stress and frustration out of shopping. Ultimately, I’d love to collaborate on a clothing collection based on body shape that will make getting dressed and looking fabulous absolutely effortless.

What do you do to relax?

I love nothing more than a leisurely walk through Central Park with my significant other and my five-year-old daughter. Oh, and nothing beats a deep relaxing soak in the bath with Jurlique Lavender Shower Gel and Jo Malone Lime & Basil candle flickering.

Where would your favourite holiday (vacation) be and why?

A week at the Amanpuri resort in Phuket. 
I lived in Hong Kong for four years hosting a TV show, and Thailand was one of my go-to destinations. You can’t beat the service in Asia; it’s exceptional.

Do you have interesting hobbies?

I travel frequently; and as a family we select a different destination every year to spend the holidays. We’ve been everywhere from Cuba to Moscow. One of my trips included watching the sun’s eclipse on Concorde, and I was lucky enough to experience it before the fleet was retired.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with EuroCircle members about yourself?

I’m a huge adoption advocate. I adopted my daughter from birth in Florida, and love counseling women about the (sometimes complicated) emotional issues surrounding adoption.

Where can we find out more about your work?

My website, www.jacquistafford.com
My style book
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Web page link: jacquistafford.com/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/OfficialJacquiStafford
www.youtube.com/jacquistafford