Posts tagged with "Brands"

Revolutionary Smart Gx Bottle

ImpacX, the innovative Internet of Packaging (IoP) company, has partnered with Gatorade, the global sports fuel brand. The result: Gatorade Smart Gx bottles powered by impacX’s science and technology.

The Internet of Packaging company that provides a full end-to-end connected experience for water, vitamins, supplements and CPG brands through an Internet of Things (IoT) smart packaging platform, announced a partnership with global sports fuel brand Gatorade. The result: Gatorade Smart Gx bottles powered by impacX’s science and technology.

At the heart of this partnership is the “connected experience” – a new and personal way for Gatorade Smart Gx bottle consumers to interact with the physical product. impacX’s patented smart cap technology transforms reusable bottles into a smart, digital device that, tracks and collects hydration data for the user while calculating beverage intake based on the user’s profile and sport activity when paired with the accompanying Gx app. This innovation encourages hydration with intelligent reminders that are triggered by sensors located within the bottle’s cap that detect the level of liquid inside the bottle.

“We’re excited to partner with an international brand such as Gatorade,” said Yoav Hoshen, co-founder and senior vice president of impacX. “At impacX, we empower consumers through our digital and personalized solutions to help them track their own hydration and wellness needs. We strive to be leaders of the smart hydration space and are dedicated to technology that brings a robust and well-rounded product for our customers and partners.”

The smart bottle technology benefits both customers and the brands. Customers gain insights from a user-friendly mobile app that coaches them to achieve their hydration and wellness goals once they have entered personal information catered to their current fitness and health journeys. The technology inside the users’ Smart Gx bottle also shows a progress gauge that reminds and coaches them when they should take another sip, when their bottle is empty, how many more ounces they need to consume, and more. Meanwhile, brands receive access to customer and usage insights using impacX’s unique smart hydration platform.

“We have been searching for an innovative technology company to partner with that can deliver personalized daily hydration recommendations and change the way athletes hydrate and fuel,” said Drew Palin, senior director of innovation at Gatorade. “impacX has created a smart packaging technology that precisely meets our needs. This new partnership represents the future of packaging and has the potential to improve athlete engagement.”

The Gatorade Smart Gx bottle powered by impacX is currently available in black and has the option for personalization. It comes in a kit including the bottle, a four pack of Gx pods, two Gx Sweat Patches, and is available now for $69.99 USD on Gatorade.com.

impacX was founded in 2015 and has two main product lines: Water.io – the world leading smart hydration platform, and Vitamins.io – an innovation platform for vitamins and supplements for tracking, reminding, and re-ordering.

To learn more about impacX, visit HERE.

About impacX

ImpacX (TASE: IMPC.TA) is a smart packaging company that delivers a connected experience for brands through innovative technology. Its end-to-end Internet of Packaging platform uses a unique combination of sensors, algorithms, cloud services and mobile apps to provide a complete personalized experience for consumers as well as products and brands. ImpacX is a publicly traded Israeli technology company that was originally founded as Water.io in 2015.

About Gatorade

The Gatorade Company, a division of PepsiCo (NASDAQ: PEP), meets the needs of consumers who participate in sports and fitness, through brands that include Gatorade, Propel, Muscle Milk, and Evolve. The solutions they provide are driven by a deep understanding of the unique occasions and needs across athletic activity. Gatorade, their marquee brand, is underpinned by a 56-year history of studying the best athletes in the world, and sports nutrition research by the Gatorade Sport Science Institute, allowing it to provide scientifically formulated products that meet athletes’ needs both on and off the field. For more information and a full list of products, please visit HERE.

“At impacX, we empower consumers through our digital and personalized solutions to help them track their own hydration and wellness needs. We strive to be leaders of the smart hydration space and are dedicated to technology that brings a robust and well-rounded product for our customers and partners.”

Arab Fashion Week Returns

Arab Fashion Week Returns to Dubai Design District with an International Line-up of Women’s Shows and a Pioneering Collaboration

The six-day event, held in strategic partnership with Dubai Design District (d3) will kick off October 10, 2022, and will showcase Women’s Fall-Winter 22/23 Couture and Spring Summer 2023 Ready-to-Wear collections

Barbie will take center stage through global collaboration with Lebanese designer Jean Louis Sabaji

For the first time, Arab Fashion Week will host over 35 designers from the MENA region, as well as Europe, Asia, and the Americas, within the d3 space and on its B2B platform

Eco-conscious brand The Giving Movement will debut its new clothing line FiftyMade

Sustainability and fashion tech will be paramount on the runway

In a strategic partnership, the Arab Fashion Council and Dubai Design District (d3) are delighted to announce the return of Women’s Arab Fashion Week with Couture FW 22/23 and Spring Summer 2023 Ready-To-Wear shows taking place at d3 from October10-15, 2022.

Staged within the city’s design and fashion pulse, the creative world – and more than 35 designers – will unite in Dubai at d3. Supported by TECOM Group PJSC’s creative platform, the six-day calendar will be packed with runway shows, an international collaboration, roundtable talks, and activations.

As the global fashion industry continues to emerge from the pandemic, Arab Fashion Week will welcome regional and international editors, buyers, industry leaders, and global celebrities, to view a curated selection of fashion-forward designers from the MENA region, Europe, the Americas and Asia. A roster of new designers and returning ones are expected to be on the season’s dynamic calendar and La Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, the French body responsible for coordinating Paris Fashion Week, will once again present Paris-based label Weinsanto. It will be the fifth occasion in which Weinsanto participates at Arab Fashion Week, highlighting the ever-growing relevance of Dubai to global brands.

An occasion of firsts, UAE-based brand, The Giving Movement will debut its new range of clothing named FiftyMade on the catwalk, while Atelier Forger will take centre stage as the first Syrian label to showcase at Arab Fashion Week.

Emerging and established designers from as far afield as Mexico, Nicaragua, Thailand, Malaysia and Ukraine will also be participating in Arab Fashion Week for the first time – and these are in addition to names from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, Iraq, Iran, Libya, Turkey, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, France, the UK, the Philippines, Poland, Romania, Paraguay, and Belarus. Some 23 countries will be represented in total.

Furthermore, Arab Fashion Week will kick off with a special event commemorating Barbie, the 2021 recipient of the Fashion Icon Award. The Arab Fashion Council forged a one-of-a-kind collaboration with the world’s most diverse doll, tapping Lebanese couturier Jean-Louis Sabaji as the first Arab designer ever to work with the global icon, following similar partnerships with Balmain and Moschino. The historic capsule will be unveiled on October 10 at d3.

To usher in the season of physical presentations, the runway shows will be broadcasted on live screens positioned around the d3 space. The public will also be invited to view the live shows via the Arab Fashion Week and Arab fashion Council social media platforms.

Khadija Al Bastaki, Vice President of Dubai Design District (d3), said: “We are proud, with our strategic partner the Arab Fashion Council, to announce the line-up for this autumn’s Arab Fashion Week, which will be by far, the largest edition to date with more than 35 designers set to hit the runway over the six-day event – from all corners of the world. We look forward to welcoming the creative community to d3 to engage, connect and be inspired, and to see many emerging and established talents hit our runway for the first time, as well as to partake in workshops, panels and wider activations. It is very much our mission at Dubai Design District to elevate the creative ecosystem here in Dubai and the wider region with opportunities to showcase, tap into new stakeholders and audiences, and – most importantly – rethink the regular. Arab Fashion Week continues to be at the very heart of our regional fashion industry while also taking the global narrative on all that is happening here in our region to new heights, further growing Dubai’s reputation as a global fashion hub. We look forward to welcoming all fashion lovers and enthusiasts.”

Mohammed Aqra, Chief Strategy Officer of the Arab Fashion Council, says: “The Arab Fashion Council is focused on its ardent mission to build strategies and bridge the divide between international companies and regional ones – structured in a way that supports the Council’s mission dedicated to fostering and supporting the global trajectories of our local talent and businesses that represent our creative heartlands. We are very excited about having pioneered a global collaboration between Barbie and Lebanese couturier Jean-Louis Sabaji, the first Arab in history to work with the global icon. We also celebrate Arab Fashion Week’s success as the region’s #1 creative platform, propelling its designers onto a global stage and before international brands, buyers, and worldwide media. Together with d3, we continue to champion Dubai’s role as the region’s fashion capital.”

Mohammed Aqra, Chief Strategy Officer, Arab Fashion Council

Serge Carreira, Head of Emerging Brands Initiative, La Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, said: “We are pleased to continue to strengthen on the long-run the collaboration with the Arab Fashion Council. Some of our most promising talents could build strong and consistent relationships and explore the market in the region season after season. This contributes undoubtedly to pave the way for a global success.”

The Arab Fashion Council is also pleased to announce the participation of its international corporate sponsors: Meta, Microsoft, Windows, Electra, Schwarzkopf professional, KIKO Milano, Waldorf Astoria DIFC, Launchmetrics, Ferronato Switzerland, and Quintessentially.

Serge Carreira, Head of Emerging Brands Initiative, Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode

For more info on Women’s Arab Fashion Week, visit:
www.arabfashionweek.org
www.instagram.com/arabfashionweek/

Elle Hollywood Rising

Presented by Polo Ralph Lauren and Hulu

Champagne flowed into the greenery-filled Ardor at the West Hollywood EDITION on May 18, 2022, as ELLE, Polo Ralph Lauren and HULU toasted Hollywood’s brightest rising stars. ELLE’s Hollywood Rising event captured the interest of celebrities from the heat of Sunset Boulevard.

The guests of honor were the cast of Hulu’s Conversations with Friends, including main cover star Alison Oliver, Jemima Kirke, Joe Alwyn and Sasha Lane, who toasted their drinks with celebrities including Nicola Coughlan, Phoebe Bridgers, Brittany O’Grady, May Calamawy and many more.

ABOUT ELLE

ELLE is the No. 1 fashion magazine and media brand in the world, with 45 editions, 34 websites and more than 158 supplements worldwide. The ELLE U.S. brand reaches over 29 million influential readers, users, fans and followers across all platforms and inspires women to explore and celebrate style in all aspects of their lives with content that is inclusive and innovative. ELLE U.S. is published by Hearst Magazines, a unit of Hearst, a leading global, diversified media, information and services company. Hearst Magazines’ portfolio of more than 25 powerful brands in the U.S. inspires and entertains audiences across all media platforms. Hearst Magazines’ print and digital assets reach nearly 157.4 million readers and site visitors each month — 60% of all millennials and 52% of all Gen Z over the age of 18 (Source: 2021 comScore Multi-Platform © MRI-Simmons (11-21/F21). The company publishes nearly 260 magazine editions and 200 websites around the world.

For more information visit HERE.

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ABOUT RALPH LAUREN

Ralph Lauren Corporation (NYSE:RL) is a global leader in the design, marketing and distribution of premium lifestyle products in five categories: apparel, footwear & accessories, home, fragrances and hospitality. For more than 50 years, Ralph Lauren has sought to inspire the dream of a better life through authenticity and timeless style. Its reputation and distinctive image have been consistently developed across an expanding number of products, brands and international markets. The Company’s brand names—which include Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren Collection, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, Polo Ralph Lauren, Double RL, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Polo Ralph Lauren Children and Chaps, among others—constitute one of the world’s most widely recognized families of consumer brands.

For more information, visit HERE.

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ABOUT HULU

Hulu is the leading and most comprehensive all-in-one premium streaming service that offers an expansive slate of live and on-demand entertainment, both in and outside the home, through a wide array of subscription options that give consumers ultimate control over their viewing experience. As part of Disney’s Media and Entertainment Distribution segment, Hulu is the only on-demand offering that provides access to shows from every major U.S. broadcast network, libraries of hit TV series and films – including licensed content available exclusively on Hulu – and award-winning Hulu Originals, both with and without commercials. With Hulu + Live TV, subscribers receive a unique combination of access to 80+ live news, entertainment and sports TV channels from 20th Television, The Walt Disney Company, ABC, NBCUniversal, CBS Corporation, The CW, Turner Networks, A+E Networks and Discovery Networks, as well as Disney+ and ESPN+ included as part of the base plan. Visit hulu.com to subscribe or learn more about the service.

For more information, visit HERE.

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PHOTO: (L to R) Zack Calderon, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Mia Healey, wearing Ralph Lauren, Reign Edwards, and Reed Shannon attend “Elle Hollywood Rising” presented by Polo Ralph Lauren and Hulu on May 18, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for Elle)

Rodney

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Rodney Ramlochan is an executive, entrepreneur, and global business generator who has dedicated his career to empowering others, identifying strategic relationships, and building world-class organizations. Driven by his passion for technology, fashion, lifestyle, and culture, he serves as 360 Magazine’s global business manager. Rodney builds market position for 360 by locating, developing, defining, and closing business relationships with leading brands.

Alongside his role at 360 Magazine, Rodney serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Dev-Byrne & Company, a national technology expense management firm serving premier clients ranging from global not-for-profits to Fortune 500 firms. He is a highly accomplished leader known for laser-like vision in formulating and executing cutting-edge strategies to achieve business goals.

Over the years, Rodney has held multiple roles within the business sector over the past two decades. As Vice-President and co-founder of an award-winning telecom auditing firm, he garnered an elite list of clients, taking the startup from obscurity to highly profitable in under three years. At Verizon, he oversaw large business units responsible for service delivery for enterprise clients.

Rodney completed both undergraduate and graduate degrees, with honors at New York University. He is a published contributing author who has written papers on service delivery and Total Quality Management. In addition, he has served on the Alumni Board Committee of New York University and the chairman of the board for St. Frances Cabrini Academy in Brooklyn, NY.

Nechelle Vanias Six Degrees of Influence Q×A

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Nechelle Vanias is Chief Strategic Officer of the full-service digital marketing and talent agency, Six Degrees of Influence (SDI). Spearheading the agency, Nechelle looks to elevate professionally managed content. Through SDI’s three curated influencer content houses – The Vault, La Casita, and Twin Flames – the agency looks to offer a unique opportunity to both brands and content creators. 360 Magazine spoke with Nechelle about SDI’s approach to creating viral content, brand campaigns, Gen Z/Millennial trends, and more.

What void do the The Vault, La Casita, and Twin Flames houses fill in the professionally managed content collaboration house industry?

Six Degrees of Influence (SDI) sought to create long lasting brands when developing The Vault, La Casita, and Twin Flames, not just an influencer hang out or Airbnb. SDI likens this approach some of the popular TV shows, like Love Island and Big Brother, where the audience falls in love with the show platform and may have their favorite contestants each season, but still come back to engage with the next season. In fact, SDI runs each of their content houses like a TV show production set replete with the same operations, including call sheets and writers’ room. This ensures a predictable, consistent and timely amount of content is produced for both the house social media channels and brand partners.

Six Degrees of Influence (SDI) uses a multi-channel content approach. What different channels do you use to promote content?

SDI employs social and live channels to promote the house’s content. This includes live streaming fan events and on-site brand activations at the houses. The content houses’ reach is amplified beyond the house channels by hosting daily collaboration days with their influencer and Young Hollywood friends. [These collaborations] then create exposure for the guests’ audiences as well.

Is there a specific media channel that SDI influencers are currently focusing on the most?

SDI knows that content creators can still earn more money that is relative to their follower count and engagement on Instagram and YouTube, than on TikTok. This is because Instagram and YouTube are established platforms from which brands have been able to experience quantitative conversion results over long periods of time. Brands are still figuring out how to best use TikTok, thus while their marketing spends are increasing for TikTok. [However,] you can still earn more on the other platforms with less followers. We have a creator with six five thousand followers on Instagram and earns $1,500 on average for one Instagram post, whereas her following of three hundred and fifty thousand followers on TikTok earns her $750 on average. Now, add in the fact that SDI has never seen followers move to other platforms in the way TikTokers are able to move their followers. Therefore, TikTok is still a large focus as it serves as an advertising tool to drive the growth of Instagram and YouTube. For these reasons, SDI focuses on Instagram and YouTube growth for the housemates, but certainly keeps TikTok front of mind.

What benefits does living in a content house offer influencers, as opposed to more traditional housing arrangements?

Collaboration amongst all creative types is a tried-and-true method of growing and being inspired. Living in a content house offers influencers a tribe to go to for content ideas, support and camaraderie. When run by SDI, that [support] comes with mental health check ins and encouragement. [Encouragement] is very necessary for influencers who are under an immense amount of pressure to maintain their brand. SDI also provides insight on platform growth, relationships with the platforms for exclusive campaign, and event opportunities, and secures brand deals for the housemates. Overall, in SDI’s houses housemates receive the support, resources and tools to grow their social platforms, increase their revenue potential and get a “masters” in the business of content creators.

Is there a formula/process that SDI follows when attempting to create viral content?

In order to achieve viral content you have to put out A LOT of content. It is foremost a numbers game – the more content you deploy the more you increase your chances of going viral. The second most important process of creating viral content is to study data, so that you are putting out a lot of purposeful content with the intent to speak to a generation. Have your content resonate with [viewers] and have them respond with affirmation through their views, likes, shares and comments. SDI is a very data driven agency, so we are looking at what the data is telling us, what the comments of the fans telling us, what is trending in pop culture, what do we hear the talent talking most about, what is getting the views. Once SDI has the “what”, we start looking at the “why” so that we can determine how to leverage the data to create viral content.

SDI creates custom designed campaigns for individual brands. How does SDI go about customizing these campaigns for each brand?

We curate campaigns for brands that align with their overall marketing goals and what we know will be embraced by the creators. We speak the brands language, but live in the creator’s world, so we know how to create a win-win collaboration. We also leverage the unique setting of a content house in our campaigns. Most specifically, the ability to do on-site branded activations and signage at the houses themselves. For example, if it is a beverage brand, we might recommend a branded glass front refrigerator by the pool. If it is a clothing brand, we might recommend a branded master closet with signage that is full of the brand’s clothing. If it were a cereal brand, we might recommend a cereal bar in the kitchen. All of these concepts would include intentional branded content created by the housemates, but also a more subliminal exposure in the background of content. [This subliminal exposure] has proven to be successful in traditional product placement [methods] used in TV and film. The possibilities are endless, and we look to get as creative as we can. [SDI] pushes the envelope [with] of out of the box ideas that deliver conversations and increase brand awareness.

Who are some of the most popular content creators that SDI represents?

SDI works with many creators, and the most popular doesn’t always mean the most follower count.

Rave Vanias with 350k is a brand favorite, doing campaigns for brands such as Cinnamon Toast Crunch, HP and Fenty Skin. She also pulls thousands of views when she goes live on her social channels. Her confident personality and accessibility make her a favorite all around.

Alessya Farrugia has strong numbers on all channels (2M on TikTok, 391k on Instagram, 176k on YouTube) and is another talent. [Alessya is also] a brand favorite for campaign activations on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. She also is one of the few creators that appear on the gossip sites for her great looks, and not for drama.

Joshua Suarez, with almost 13 million followers on TikTok, is one of our largest creators. [He has] has great chemistry with his girlfriend, Star Abelar, who herself has almost 10 million followers on TikTok.

So many influencers audition to join content houses. What qualities does SDI specifically look for when finding influencers to represent your full-service digital marketing and talent agency?

SDI is looking for creators that have a great work ethic and want to be great. If someone is doing this as a hobby, they are not a fit for the agency. SDI is looking to go on a journey with talent that are looking to take their careers to the next level, reach their full potential, and aren’t afraid to do the work that is needed to be great! SDI doesn’t just sign talent with large followings, because we know that doesn’t necessarily translate into big money or meaningful careers. SDI is looking for creators that are coachable and passionate about their art because those are the ones that have the greatest potential impact on the industry!

SDI mentioned that their demographic mainly caters to Gen Z and Millennial fans. Which Gen Z/Millennial trends are SDI influencers currently creating content about?

The Gen Z and Millennial generations are very confident in their self-expression, and SDI looks to amplify those voices. Relationships and connections are a main theme in the content we create – whether that be romantic, casual, family or friendly interactions. These generations are more connected [to each other than ever before] in history, thanks to technology and social media. So, [these elements] play a large part in their lives and create a universal theme with which they can relate and engage.

Is SDI looking to create any more content houses in the future?

SDI does indeed have two more houses in development for 2021, with plans for international expansion in 2022. SDI wants to create an international network of content houses that can incubate future leaders and give brands a platform to weave into the fabric of their customers’ lives.

Patrick

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From wardrobe stylist to CEO, Patrick T. Cooper’s career encompasses over 20 years in design. His prowess for defining creative strategies to fuel brands is what continually ignites Patrick. Innate artistic aptitude makes him a highly sought-after partner for Fortune 500 companies looking to garner consumer brand loyalty. Patrick’s diverse body of work includes corporate partners like Masonite as well as entertainment clients American Idol season 3 winner Fantasia Barrino, rock band 3 Doors Down, and legendary mogul Sean Combs. Patrick T. Cooper’s cutting-edge sense of style and genius allows him to envision beyond the predictable to create thought-provoking content that positively impacts diverse audiences globally.

As an African American man and LGBTQ advocate, Patrick is the epitome of the convergence of eclectic style, art, culture and people. As the official Chief Encouragement Officer, he’s committed to living authentically and celebrating originality. Patrick is also the Lifestyle Editor at 360 Magazine. Patrick’s mantra, “Being a trailblazer isn’t enough if we don’t encourage others to find and live in their purpose!”

Six Steps to the Perfect Selfie in Seattle

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By: Patrick T. Cooper

Patrick must admit – he has not mastered the perfect selfie. However, he thinks that Seattle in September could be the remedy for any travel woes as we pardon summer and welcome the fall. Considering that social media isn’t losing momentum, it is becoming increasingly evident that one must embrace society’s online culture. Time stamping oneself at destinations as proof of global citizenship is a necessity.

Seattle is a phenomenal location to let the eye wander. Ignite a bit of envy in ]coworkers, family, and friends with selfies in this majestic Northwestern city. Discovering the United States is paramount, especially when considering the effects of the pandemic. To that end, he is authoring this easy guide to exploring this travel destination gem.

Dismiss any stereotypes about this region being inundated with rain and overcast skies – Seattle is sizzling! Unseasonably warm and record high temperatures are paired with the city’s cultural heat. Seattle’s thriving art scene, architecture and delicious cuisine options make this city a must-visit. Hopefully Patrick’s article will prompt readers to shed their COVID-19 concerns and explore the world with care and caution.

The World of Hyatt

Selfie #1! The obligatory hotel check-in selfie challenge. Hyatt has the block sewn up in downtown Seattle! Everywhere one looks from the corner of 8th and Pine Street, they can find either The Grand Hyatt, The Hyatt Regency, or the Hyatt Olive 8. All of these destinations will make a stay in Seattle sweet. Each facility has discerning characteristics for the global citizen, with The Grand Hyatt being the mothership of sophistication and elegance. The Hyatt Regency is the true gift to the business traveler with its convenient positioning near the city’s new convention center. Finally, The Hyatt Olive 8, possesses a swanky, eclectic boutique feel. Hyatt’s CEO’s, Mark Hoplamazian’s, philosophy of growing with intent is clearly visible in the hospitality that is delivered by the staff and the entire team.

Patrick bit into TIDAL+ Burger as the first capture on his journey! The mind-blowing seasoning of this burger makes for a mouthful. Trust Patrick, foodies and travelers alike will want to share their initial bite with the world. Promise him to dip the corner of the sandwich in the signature black garlic aioli prior to indulgence. Hold up – thats not all! One must indulge in a proper night cap. March over to Andare Kitchen & Bar to sip the Triveri Blanc de Blancs Brut as a welcome to Seattle.

The Space Needle

Selfie # 2! What was once a man’s doodle became a defining destination and central figure for the 1962 World’s Fair. Still standing today is synonymous with the Seattle skyline, and remains a staple that never disappoints. To visit, take a brisk elevator ride towards heaven. Regardless of the day’s weather, the view from the space needle is astonishing! Dare to step out on The Loupe – the world’s first, and only, revolving glass floor. Ready for the perfect selfie above Seattle? Honestly, Patrick was mortified about standing on the glass flooring. Thankfully, he conquered my fear and embraced a wonderful experience.

The Public Market

Selfie #3! Catch some live fish throwing at the Public Market! This is an invigorating opportunity, to say the least. The Public Market is always jumping with a slew of activities, so one will never be bored. Fresh seafood or a brief coffee break are manifestations of Seattle’s cultural tapestry – and also make for gorgeous selfie backgrounds. Dusk is the best time to catch the neon glow of the Public Market signage. Bring a camera and become a part of the Seattle skyline.

The Nest Rooftop Bar

Selfie #4! Cocktails and bites are why everyone travels, correct? At least, that is part of Patrick’s ministry. The Nest Rooftop Bar is elegantly perched above the Thompson Seattle Hotel. This bar makes for a splendid city view, whether it’s day or night. Additionally, the restaurant’s lush, green garden wall creates an outstanding optic opportunity.

Heads up! The Seattle Great Wheel illuminates the night sky from the restaurant’s vantage point.

The Seattle Museum of Art

Selfie#5! Refined yet welcoming, visiting the Seattle Museum of Art (SAM) is a moment to adore. Spend the day absorbing cultural education while viewing works of art from around the world. The Seattle Asian Art Museum is the SAM’s original home, and without a doubt the 1933 art-deco elements will be pleasing to viewer’s eyes. There are countless locations within the walls of this building for picturesque selfies.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Selfie #6! Glamour behind glass at the Seattle Center. Upon visiting, one should expect nothing less than phenomenal from the native Washingtonian Dale Chihuly. Chihuly Garden and Glass presents spectacular landscapes for viewing, including the atrium’s ceiling art. One’s eyes will marvel at the plethora of hand-blown glass sculptures. Chihuly’s colorful artwork makes for an excellent back drop in his selfie repertoire.

Say cheese!

About Patrick T. Cooper

As an African American man and LGBTQ advocate, Patrick is the epitome of the convergence of eclectic style, art, culture and people. As the official Chief Encouragement Officer, he’s committed to living authentically and celebrating originality. Patrick’s mantra, “Being a trailblazer isn’t enough if we don’t encourage others to find and live in their purpose!”

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Armon

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armon@the360mag.com

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“I always pictured myself as a businessman in retail or fashion … Besides feeding my sweet design tooth, I enjoy developing ideas and working with others to help them achieve their dreams.”

Armon Hayes is a Creative Director for 360 Magazine and AOHSOA. Armon’s innovative eye for detail allows him to create long-lasting partnerships with clientele as he assists them in both their brand development and growth.

He offers an array of client services: wardrobe styling; custom and digital merchandising; brand management as well as campaign development.

Recent client(s)/projects for 360: LaJune, Land Rover’s Defender, The Bodega and #360TRAP.

Ivy Park – shot/produced by Armon.

Sperry – shot/produced by Armon.

Special assignments:

#LIVELOVELUBBOCK

BEBERET BY AOHSOA

Measurements:

Height 6’1
Weight: 170lbs
Jacket: 42L
Shirt: Large
Neck: 16.5
Sleeve: 32/33
Waist: 31
Inseam: 34
Shoe: 10

Ten Reasons Brands Should Celebrate Pride Month

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By: Skyler Johnson

As Pride Month approaches, it’s expected that we’ll see a number of pride-related products pop up. There are people that think brands celebrating Pride Month is “tacky” or “preachy.” However, it’s still important for brands to show their support for the LGBTQIA+ community, even if it’s just in the month of June. Here are a few reasons why:

10. Celebration of Pride Month Wasn’t As Good In 2020

Because of the Black Lives Matter Protests and Covid-19, brands didn’t celebrate Pride Month in 2020 the way they had in previous years. While they could have done both, a lot of companies didn’t. So, it’s extra important this year for brands to show that they still care about LGBTQIA+ individuals through celebrating Pride Month extra hard.

9. Generates Profit for Brands

Statistically, being in support of the LGBTQIA+ community has been shown to increase company sales. People will have more respect for those companies, and will be more likely to purchase their products.

8. Supports LGBTQIA+ People for No Cost

While brands may have to change the packaging, that’s all they need to do to support Pride Month. There’s no real loss that can be had towards brands celebrating Pride Month, except for a few people thinking that it’s “preachy.”

7. Shows the Power of Brands

Brands are more powerful than you might think. After all, we’re constantly seeing them, and they are always affecting our lives, even if we don’t realize it. Everything we do– from brushing our teeth to putting on clothes–has us interacting with brands. And the actions of brands do affect us. Think about the uproar that Discord received over changing their logo. People got legitimately upset over the actions of a corporation. So people will be affected by brands that are supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, and may change a negative stance if their favorite brand supports it.

6. Recognizes the History of Hate Towards LGBTQIA+ People in the U.S.

It’s sickening how much hatred has been directed towards people just trying to live their lives. For a long time, there were laws that prohibited homosexuality and being trans was virtually impossible. 2015 was the year when gay marriage was declared legal, and that was only six years ago. Because of the long struggle with homophobia and transphobia, it’s important to recognize these people, and show them we care through the brands we as Americans deem as important.

5. Decreases Homophobia and Transphobia in the World

Although Americans are more accepting of LGBTQIA+ individuals compared to other countries (and even we’re not perfect), there are other countries that are much worse. A lot of countries still have laws that prohibit gay and trans individuals from being themselves. Given the international nature of these brands, they can help change the mindsets of people in countries that are much less accepting than the U.S.

4. Encourages Workplace Diversity

If members of the LGBTQIA+ community see that companies support them, they’ll be more likely to apply for jobs within the company. Diversity in the workplace has been shown to increase profit margins.

3. Raises Awareness

I wouldn’t know about Marsha P. Johnson if they weren’t honored by Google during Pride Month. Brands can give people information on important people in the LGBT community, and makes people aware of history that would otherwise be forgotten. I was never taught about the Stonewall Riots in school, but Google allowed me to find information on this important piece of LGBTQIA+ history.

2. Supports LGBTQIA+ Individuals

LGBTQIA+ artists and creators have been historically marginalized due to their identity. There was a time, not long ago, when your career would end as a result of coming out. Now that there are more and more creatives able to have careers despite, or even because of, their identity. Brands should support those individuals via including them in their ad campaigns or creating a product inspired by them. Smirnoff’s partnership with drag queen Alyssa Edwards is a great example.

1. Gives Brands a Reason to Donate to Show they Care

A lot of brands have donated part of their proceeds to charity. LGBTQIA+ people are thus given the resources they need to survive and thrive.