Category Archives: News and Happenings
25% of New Marriages in the state of New York are between Same-Sex couples
A surge in wedding licenses following the Marriage Equality Act means a quarter of new marriages in the state of New York are between same-sex couples.
According to figures released by the New York Post, the number of of applications for licenses rose by a third on the same period last year.
Of the 5,587 applications filed in early August, the city of New York estimates 1,400 were gay couples.
The number has been estimated as applications in the state no longer require genders to be specified.
Instead, the figures for this summer were compared with the same period over the last three years, where the number of applications was around 4,200.
The City Clerk, Michael McSweeney, told the Post: “Last week, we averaged 335 license applications a day, busier than ever.
“We’ve had to work extra hard to handle the increase, but even as same-sex marriage starts to feel routine here, everyone seems profoundly happy to be here.”
Initial Casting for Broadway Staged Reading of Dustin Lance Black’s New Play “8” Sept. 19th Event
This past week, the American Foundation for Equal Rights in partnership with Broadway Impact announce initial casting for the highly anticipated one night only staged reading of “8,” a new play chronicling the historic trial in the federal legal challenge to California’s Proposition 8. Black, who penned the Academy-Award winning feature film Milk, based “8” on the actual words of the trial transcripts, first-hand observations of the courtroom drama and interviews with the plaintiffs and their families. The new play will have its world premiere on Broadway at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre in New York City on Monday, September 19, 2011 for an exclusive, one night only fundraiser to benefit AFER. Additional casting for the all-star benefit will be announced soon. Following the New York debut on September 19, AFER and Broadway Impact will license “8” to schools and community organizations nationwide in order to spur action, dialogue and understanding. AFER and Broadway Impact will help produce these staged readings across the country, so that “8” will live on beyond its September premiere. The story for “8” is framed by the trial’s historic closing arguments in June 2010, but features the best arguments and testimony from both sides of the issue. Scenes include reenactments of many of the well-documented jaw-dropping moments of trial, such as the admission by Proposition 8 supporters’ star witness David Blankenhorn that “we would be more American on the day we permitted same-sex marriage than we were on the day before.” The video of the trial has been kept under seal due to a federal protective order. AFER’s attorneys have filed a motion asking the court to make the full and unedited recordings available for all to see (Hearing scheduled for August 29th before Judge Ware at US District Court), but there is no guarantee that the footage will ever be available for viewing and this is precisely the reason Black wrote “8.” Proceeds from the September 19 reading will go directly to the fight for full federal marriage equality and to support educational efforts on the freedom to marry nationwide.
The play is written by AFER Founding Board Member and Academy Award-winning writer Dustin Lance Black and will be directed by two-time Tony Award-winning actor and director Joe Mantello.
Anthony Edwards, Morgan Freeman, Cheyenne Jackson, Christine Lahti, Rob Reiner, Yeardley Smith and Marisa Tomei will appear in the auspicious one night only event
September 19, 2011.
The production is an unprecedented account of the Federal District Court trial of Perry v. Schwarzenegger, the case filed by AFER to overturn Proposition 8, which eliminated the right to marry for gay and lesbian couples in California.
AFER prevailed in federal district court when, based on the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses of the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, Judge Walker concluded that California had no rational basis or vested interest in denying gays and lesbians marriage licenses and thus found Proposition 8 “unconstitutional” on August 4, 2010. It is currently under appeal by the anti-marriage Proponents and is being expedited through the courts system at a relatively rapid pace.
Unfortunately, the American public was not given a chance to witness the historic trial because the Proponents of Proposition 8 launched a number of desperate attempts to forever hide the trial videotapes. Although the trial proceedings were open to the public, and all courtroom testimony and events were thoroughly documented, the trial video most vividly compares the weakness of the Proponents’ arguments to the well-reasoned, valid and constitutionally-based arguments and evidence put forth by AFER’s renowned legal team, plaintiffs and expert witnesses.
For more information including how to buy tickets, visit: www.afer.org/broadway8
For information on how your local theater can produce “8,” visit: www.BROADWAYIMPACT.com
Follow “8” on Twitter: @8theplay or on Facebook.
NJ Bridal Salon Refuses to sell to Lesbians
The decision has prompted thousands of couples in neighboring states that don’t recognize same-sex marriage, such as New Jersey, to plan their nuptials in New York. But as Bernadette Coveney-Smith, who specializes in planning gay weddings, explained last month to the Los Angeles Times, it can be a struggle for couples to find dress shops, florists and other vendors who are comfortable working with same-sex couples. The Yelp reviews, meanwhile, have become so rabid that Yelp reportedly is considering removing those that don’t abide by its policy of commenting on a business, not employees’ beliefs.
HOW STUPID IS THIS STORE?!
Here Comes the Bride in New Jersey, is making news for refusing to sell a gown to a lesbian who plans to marry in neighboring New York, which legalized same-sex marriage earlier this summer.
Alex Genter has complained that the manager at Here Comes the Bride in Somers Point, N.J., lectured her about her gay lifestyle after Genter crossed out the word “groom” and replaced it with “partner” and her fiancee’s name on paperwork she filled out for her planned purchase. “She said she wouldn’t work with me because I’m gay,” said Genter, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. “She also said that I came from a nice Jewish family, and that it was a shame I was gay. She said, ‘There’s right, and there’s wrong. And this is wrong.’ “
Genter visited Here Comes the Bride this month along with her parents and other family members for a day of dress-shopping, according to the article. She is planning to marry next summer in New York, which in June became the sixth state to legalize gay marriage.
Since the New Jersey incident made news, Here Comes the Bride has been hammered by hundreds of scathing reviews on Yelp, and a Facebook page called Boycott Here Comes the Bride has attracted 433 followers. The woman who refused to work with Genter, and who has been identified as “Donna,” told a Philadelphia Daily News columnist that she had indeed rejected Genter’s business but accused the angry bride of “stirring up drama” by going public about the incident.
Donna said she was trying to arrange a meeting with Genter’s parents in an apparent attempt to smooth things over, the Daily News said, but she didn’t say anything about meeting with Genter herself. – I wouldn’t even take a free gown from this salon at this point.
Jack Mackenroth Releases Scorching Hot Calendar for Charity!
New Yorker Jack Mackenroth competed in the fourth season of Project Runway. Mackenroth was the first openly HIV-positive contestant in the show’s history. Proceeds Benefiting amfAR — As the first television personality since Pedro Zamora to be vocal about his HIV status, Jack Mackenroth has quickly become the most visible, out HIV+ advocate and educator in the country. . . if not the world. With the release of his 2012 calendar, he hopes to raise both money and awareness for AIDS research, and to show through his photographs that a person living with HIV can be in top physical form, healthy and sexy. All proceeds from the calendar will go to amfAR (Amfar.org) to help find a cure for AIDS. Mackenroth has been living with the disease for 22 years. Designer, athlete and HIV/AIDS activist and educator Jack Mackenroth has had the priveledge of shooting with some of the best photographers in the business. Each month of the 15 month calendar will feature a different photographer with a very different style. Jack is a role model to many people in the HIV community and a fitness model that many aspire to emulate. Photographers taking part in the project include Adam Bouska, Rick Day, Carsten Fleck, Frank Louis, James Franklin, Karl Giant, Tommy Synnamon, Mattheus Lian, Richard Gerst, Ray John Pila, Sonny Tong, Thomas Evans, Krys Fox and Preston Cros. “I have amassed such an amazing collection of images that I wanted to put out a calendar that will help to combat the silence and stigma associated with being HIV-positive,” says Mackenroth. He adds, “If I can raise money for HIV/AIDS research, it’s even better.” Jack has been a vocal and visible advocate of the HIV community, touring the country through numerous speaking engagements and special appearances at events. He continues to speak around the country and will be planning calendar signing events in the upcoming months. His memoir, “Making Lemonaids” will be released this winter. The autographed calendar will be available for pre-sale starting in mid-August, with shipping starting Sept. 15, 2011. All proceeds benefit amfAR—The American Foundation for AIDS Research. (Amfar.org) The calendar’s dimensions are 8.5 x 11 inches, and are available through (ONLINE NOW) for $14.95 (plus tax and shipping).
This month he launches his 2012 Calendar with 100% of
The American Foundation for AIDS Research
For additional information, please visit Jackmackenroth.com.
BestGayNewYork.com
Little House on the Ferry – Musical About Fire Island
Announcing The New Off Broadway Show ‘Little House on the Ferry’: A modern gay love story set in the weekend holiday resort of Fire Island, New York. Eleven original songs, a cast of New York’s twelve most exciting new musical theatre actors, spectacular costumes, ground-breaking multi-media effects and cameos by some of New City’s notorious LGBT community members. This show is about a group of friends in a Fire Island share house over a summer weekend. The story centers around Randall who is reluctantly in an “open” relationship with his older boyfriend Timothy. Randall goes to ‘Tea’, (or happy hour), where he meets Jake; a younger, good-looking romantic who falls in love at first sight with Randall. Randall must ultimately decide between staying with Timothy or taking a chance and going with Jake. Also in the Share House, adding diversity and trouble, are Donnie, the “House Mom”, Bobby, a large muscle boy lusted after by weekend guest Antonio, who is willingly tempted by all the island has to offer. Auditions: The Company is also looking for male Non-Equity actors, singers and dancers with strong physique and character. All ages welcomed. Those interested can submit a resume and headshot to info@littlehouseontheferry.com
Off Broadway 3 Week Run: November 3rd until November 20th…. American Theatre of Actors Chernuchin Theatre. 314 W. 54th Street (between 8th & 9th Avenue). The eighty minute show runs at Wednesdays & Thursday 7pm , Fridays & Saturdays at 7pm & 9pm and Sundays at 3pm – November 20th the Sunday show is at 7pm. TICKETS ON SALE NOW.
Free Song! Go to Littlehouseontheferry.com/song and download the new theme song: “We’re On (Clap Clap) Fire Island”.
Michael Kors & Lance Le Pere Marry in South Hamptons
Mazel tov! Michael Kors and his longtime partner Lance Le Pere have finally made it official, reports Women’s Wear Daily. The couple were married in a private ceremony on Tuesday in Southampton with the town’s mayor Mark Epley officiating. It has been a long time coming for Kors and Le Pere, who have known each other since 1990 when Le Pere joined the designer’s company. They fell in love with Paris, Le Pere told New York in an interview from last August: “We share a certain level of taste… an American point of view, and I think we like to play with Americana. Over the years and the day-to-day process of dreaming together, things just naturally fell into place.” Kors and Le Pere had given hints that a marriage ceremony was impending, as the two were spotted on August 3 at New York’s City Hall applying for a marriage license. Kors said in a statement, “Lance and I are very excited to finally be able to have the opportunity to marry in our home state after many years together. We have no plans for a major party, but we will be getting married privately.”
Congratulations guys!!
Get Away to Vermont for Northern Decadence Sept. 9-10
Celebrating Vermont’s Diversity & Culinary Tourism
Come out for the First Annual Northern Decadence Vermont! Maple syrup, gourmet ice cream, award-winning cheeses, microbrews, wines, sauces and other specialty foods. Beautiful natural scenery, world-class restaurants, family attractions, shopping, entertainment, arts and culture.
Produced by the Vermont Gay Tourism Association, Northern Decadence includes three exciting events, including a:
Culinary Cruise on Lake Champlain on the Spirit of Ethan Allen on September 9th, from 9:00 pm until 12:00 midnight. Dancing, entertainment and delicious foods will be available. The Vermont Gay Social Alternatives (vgsa.com) is partnering with the VGTA to present the cruise. Tickets are $45.
Food Festival and Art Show at the Hilton Burlington on September 10th, 11:00 am until 5:00 pm. The public will be able to sample some of the best specialty foods made in Vermont and New England, plus learn cooking techniques at presentations by noted chefs. A silent auction with items and certificates from restaurants, resorts, inns and other businesses will be held during the day. Tickets are $10 and includes 10 sample tickets. Children 12 and under are free.
Dance Party at the Higher Ground in South Burlington on September 10th, 9:00 pm until 2:00 am. Dance the night away to the latest tracks by the hottest artists today, plus enjoy live entertainment, and an underwear fashion show courtesy of Macy’s. Tickets are $20.
The Vermont Gay Tourism Association, with support from the Vermont Department of Tourism & Marketing, created Northern Decadence to promote Vermont’s tourism, weddings and culinary culture to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) travel market.
Northern Decadence.
Pop Up Chapel Will Bring Wedding Bells to Central park This Weekend
This weekend’s regional news cycle was consumed by warm and fuzzy reports of New York’s first official gay marriages.
This coming weekend brings the Pop-Up Chapel in Central Park, a temporary wedding pavilion for 24 couples to get hitched in the city’s most sentimental wedding locale. The two winners of the architectural design competition beat out 54 other designers with rainbows (natch) and a swirling pile of recyclable cardboard, both of which will be incorporated into the Pop-Up Chapel site at Merchants’ Gate. ICRAVE designed a boxy chapel made of a metal frame enclosed with white ribbon, whose mesh ceiling is hung with a rainbow’s worth of ribbons, later handed out to the married couples as keepsakes. Z-A Studios took a more parametric approach, designing stacked modules of cardboard that can be combined into a tulip chapel structure, plus benches and tables nearby.
Catch the chapel edition of Rendering vs. Reality, and all the wedding action, this Saturday July 30 from 10am-8pm. READ MORE.
New York City Gay Marriage Lottery…Everyone Won!
City officials held a lottery Thursday for 764 marriage slots, but when 823 couples registered, the city decided to let all of them make it official this weekend!
The clerk’s offices in each of the five boroughs have their own limit of couples for this Sunday. Each of the outer boroughs had enough spots for interested couples, but in Manhattan where only 400 spots were available, 533 couples registered, according to New York Magazine.
In order to accommodate everyone, city officials decided to expand the number of ceremonies in Manhattan to 459 and the other 74 couples who applied to marry in Manhattan will instead marry in one of the other four boroughs.
Clerk’s offices normally are closed on Sundays, but officials across the state said they would open them to marry same-sex couples on the first day the law takes effect.
The city will break a record Sunday with 823 marriages, more than the city’s previous single-day high of 621 on Valentine’s Day in 2003.
LET THE CELEBRATION BEGIN!!
The Gay Housewives Are Back…A List Season 2
Fasten Your seat belts….The A LIST Season 2 premiers July 25th….
Logo’s gay housewives are back, and their decadent dramas are more outrageous and over the top than when we left them last season. Will Reichen and Rodiney make it this time? Will Austin make more enemies than friends? Will Ryan and his husband make a baby? The entire high-rolling, label-whoring, beach-house-hopping cast returns, with some new frenemies and besties, including fierce gal-pal Nyasha, added to the mix. Whether you love them, or love to hate them, the boys are bringin’ it, and NYC is getting guilty with pleasure all summer long!
And our media partner Michael Cavnaugh at GayLifeNYC.org got up close and personal with some of the cast at the cast party this past week in New York.
Mike Ruiz Interiew
famed celebrity photographer and video director and a passionate board member of several gay based charities, Mike is going global. In the midst of launching a t-shirt line (profits support Ali Forney Center) and shooting a coffee table book.
Reichen Interview
Reichen moved to NYC last summer to take on Broadway. With the closing of his show, he only has about ten other careers to fall back on: actor, model, author, activist, Air Force pilot, jewelry designer and now, as the face of his own skincare line.
Derek and Rodiney Interview
Gay socialite / male model Derek and male model Rodiney.
Austins Interview
A favorite of the gossip pages during his storied modeling career and relationship with designer Marc Jacobs, Austin has now been joined in New York by his husband, Jake Lees. Austin’s latest modeling venture is to grace the pages of Playgirl.
Get more A list on LOGO
New York City Black Pride is now NYC Explosion August 10-14, 2011
Three years ago, A community based health organization called People Of Color in Crisis was shutdown by the CDC.
This organization was responsible for running an annual LGBT cultural event called PRIDE IN THE CITY which served as New York City’s Black Pride.
This meant an almost certain end to this vital cultural event.
The following year, a coalition of event promoters, health organizations, local businesses and community leaders decided to work together to continue this annual event and tradition. As if organizing and mounting Black Pride weekend wasnt going to be a huge task within itself, trying to accomplish it without the financial support of City and State funding would be nothing short of a miracle.
Change is always good. As they prepare to unveil the 14th Annual agenda, they also have a new name of this event, NYC Explosion. It will begin on Wednesday August 10, 2011 and run through Sunday August 14, 2011 (NYCblackpride.com).
Here are the Official Events
:
Wednesday August 10th – (8pm – 10pm) The Heritage Award Ceremony
SPLASH .. 50 W. 17th Street
Thursday August 11th – (9pm – 11pm) Black, Loud and Proud : Comedy Showcase
THE DUPLEX.. 61 Christopher Street
Friday August 12th – (6pm – 10pm) BOOM! : The Best Of Out Music
SECRET .. 525 W. 29th Street
Friday August 12th – (10pm – 3am) SWAGGED! : The Black Pride Pier Dance
SOUTH STREET SEAPORT .. 89 South Street
Saturday August 13th – (11am – 11pm) FIBO (The Beach Event)
CHERRY GROVE.. Fireislandblackout.com
Sunday August 14th – (12pm – 5pm) Harlem Sunday Brunch
BILLIE’S BLACK .. 271 W. 119th Street
Sunday August 14th – (3pm – 7pm) Living the Life : An Urban Cultural Expo
DWYER CULTURAL CENTER .. 258 St. Nicholas Avenue
BestGayNewYork.com
It’s Me or the DOG! Casting now in New York City
Is your dog turning your life upside down?
The hit show from
the producers of
Supernanny and
The Real Housewives of New York
NOW CASTING IN NYC!
“It’s me or the dog” Season 4 is seeking:
- Real life “characters” with big personalities!
- Outrageous dogs with out-of-control behavior
- High stakes relationships where someone is saying, “It’s me or the dog!”
If your dog’s behavior is causing high drama in the household, and heated arguments are an everyday occurrence, we want to hear from you!
PLEASE NOTE: Due to the premise of our show, there must be at least two or more people living in the home.
We’re currently seeking a fantastic gay couple whose lives and relationship are being turned upside down by their dogs’ out-of-control behavior.
If you haven’t seen the seen show, it’s hosted by world-class dog trainer, Victoria Stilwell, who intervenes to resolve these escalated situations. (See more at Positively.com)
Email: dog@shedmediaus.com www.ItsMeOrTheDog.com
Nick Adams and Priscilla Launch Felicia Says….
QUEEN OF THE DESERT is the HOTTEST ticket on Broadway! And of course, you know we adore Nick Adams, one of its stars!
They recently launched a new fun viral tool on their Facebook page where fans can see Felicia’s (played by Nick Adams) quote of the week and easily Retweet it to their friends.
Felicia always has something sassy to say, and the quotes are fun and entertaining.
Nick on Felicia….”it’s interesting cause anytime anybody ever said like, “Do you have a dream role?” That’s what I would say is that “I wanted to originate a role and in a new Broadway show.” I think it’s been the most like exciting and freeing experience because I’ve had the liberty to sort of just play in and bring a lot of like what I thought I wanted to bring the role of Felicia… and our creative team, our director really allowed me to kind of have my own spin on it and bring a different energy to this part and then in the West End Production and what they had in Australia.
As actors, what we wanna do is to really feel like we’re creating character and not mimicking somebody else’s performance or fitting like a specific mold of a different actor, so to get to like build this person from the ground up has been awesome to know that, for always and like theatrical history that would have been my role. It’s Pretty great!”
AND CHECK THIS OUT –
Priscilla is launching ‘Safe Ride’ bar nights:
Join us for a bar-hopping trip to New York’s most popular LGBT hotspots by seeing Priscilla and showing a valid ticket stub to the ruggedly handsome cowboy Wily Jack, who will be found in the lobby following select shows.
Saddle up for a fantastic ride full of prizes, giveaways, enjoying fine wine and all out fabulousness! Each rider will receive a boa or cowboy hat and will toast with a glass of Wily Jack wine at each of the 2-3 stops which include some of the most popular New York gay and LGBT friendly bars and restaurants.
The Wily Jack® party bus will first departed from the Palace Theatre this past Saturday and now will be offered following Wednesday night and Saturday matinees through August 31.
Guests must be 21 years of age or older to participate. Offer is limited to the first 35 people per show, so hustle up…don’t mosey…and meet the man in black, Wily Jack.
Safe Ride Bar Nights on Facebook
Buy Tickets to Priscilla
SEE ALSO Nick Adams VLOG at Broadway.com,
where he takes you behind the scenes of Priscilla.
BestGayNewYork.com
House of Boys Movie to Open at Cinema Village July 29
HOUSE OF BOYS has been playing the LGBT Film Festival Circuit – now it is coming to New York City July 29th!
A colorful and raw coming-of-age story set in the emerging gay dance club scene of Amsterdam 1984.
House of Boys tells the story of Frank, a high school kid who leaves home and falls into the exciting
new world of free sex, music and dance.
When Frank’s new world is suddenly turned upside down, his struggle for courage in the face the unknown gives him a new and deep understanding of the true
meaning of love.
Director Jean Claude Schlim says, “Thirty years on, the fight against AIDS is far from over:
more than 25 million people have died and an estimated 40 million people are infected. AIDS has turned out to be one of the most urgent topics that needs to be addressed in unison, worldwide, in order to avoid a major disaster for humanity.
As UNAIDS spokesmen Kofi Annan and Bill Clinton so poignantly underscored the urgency and
immensity of the crisis, in just three words: “Talk about it!“
For myself, as an artist, House of Boys became the central focus of my creative work, in order to keep fighting, but also to awaken an urgent consciousness in the younger generation. As a survivor, by all means I have to keep up the fight. The key image of House of Boys has always been this terrifying one of a young guy dying from AIDS. Images such as these are so powerful and far-reaching. I had this image of horror beyond description deep inside me, as I saw my boyfriend die in 1995 at age 27.
this experience. I had to build a story around this central image; oddly enough I turned it into a kind of fairy tale, where the only evil character would be the disease.
The ‘80s were the apex of gay culture, an historic moment in a community coming out. The music
was outrageous, extravagant fashion and night-clubbing were a way of life, born out of the hippie
generation but also completely new. We called it the New Wave: the first beats of electronic music and gay culture were completely leading the way, a period where sex was fun and fearless. It was a new beginning, a new hope, summed up by the anthem, “Welcome to the Pleasure Dome!”
In House of Boys music plays an important role in the sense that the main character was driven by night-clubbing and I wanted a mix of scenes to reflect that: clubs, concerts, cabarets, as well as some romantic tracks to underline the more intimate aspects. Some of the songs were already mentioned in the script and were expressly meant as tributes to artists that died of AIDS.
I’m very fond of the soundtrack, which I created with a mix of classic themes and new electronic music, including Klaus Nomi, DAF, Dangerous Muse, Soft Cell, Steve Harley, Roy Orbison, Jimmy Somerville, Mahalia Jackson, Laurent Garnier, and Cyril Collard.
House of Boys has been a very rewarding experience for me; I am very proud that this film is my directorial debut. It is my small contribution in talking openly about a terrible disease, that is still taboo, especially for people living with HIV who very often cannot even speak about their disease for fear of rejection and stigmatization.
The inhabitants of the House of Boys live outside society in their own little fairy tale world. They are misfits, characters outside society, yet all beautiful, strong and good as in any fairy tale.
The main character describes himself as a survivor; we all live among the adversity of tragic events, that’s life I guess, that’s what makes us strong…This is the message of my film.
The global message I think is one of hope. Tremendous medical milestones have been reached since the dark ages of the disease, as portrayed in the film. In that sense the message to young generations should be: Enjoy life, have fun, you’re entitled to have fun. Our world is full of sadness, so be proud of being gay. It’s very important for me to fight against AIDS within the gay community. It’s our duty. Our engagement must be more focused than ever as there are many urgent issues to deal with.
I dedicate this movie to all HIV positive people and to those who fight against frightening and unacceptable serophobia in our society!”
HOUSE OF BOYS TRAILER
Open Friday July 29th, Cinema Village, New York!
House of Boys on Facebook
New Yorks Best Wedding Planner Can Help You with your Gay Marriage Event!
SO YOU WANT TO GET MARRIED?!
Weddings are supposed to be a once in a lifetime experience.
You should be focusing on the love you have found and are going to be sharing forever.
You should be thinking about the bond you will be forming and the commitment you will be making. It should be joyous and exciting. And the planning of your wedding should be done with the same enthusiasm.
You don’t need to feel overwhelmed by the endless details and decisions that will need to be made. Who will do your invitations? Where will you find your tuxedos? What about the Cake?
Will there be food served?
AND THE BIG QUESTION….Where to have it? How big? How Small? What venue really expresses who you are as a couple?
And ALL OF THE PHONE CALLS to vendors gathering information and prices!!
This is just a small sampling of the many details that you have to think about. Small soiree? or a big fancy affair?
Now take a deep breath! I have 2 words for you…Successful Affairs. Let them do the work for you – and the service is free. Yes, FREE!
“We educate clients from start to finish, and walk them through the process,” says owner Lisa Rice.”You will feel at ease and confident that your big day will be your best day!”
“No matter what your budget is, our experience and resources will make your wedding a Successful Affair.
Successful Affairs specializes in locating the perfect venue for you.
Whether your needs require a hotel, club, restaurant, penthouse or a huge open loft space, or intimate elegant spaces, I guide clients through this ever changing city to the exciting options that New York has to offer!” says Lisa.
“When I started in the event planning industry in 1988 it was just blossoming, and to say the least…it has come a long way baby! And there is most certainly something to be said about experience. What really is necessary for pulling off the perfect affair comes down to 5 things: motivation, common sense, organization, negotiation and a great out going personality.
All attributes that I excel in! I have done the homework, so you don’t have to. My relationships with the many vendors will save you time and money – and best of all, my service is free to clients.”
What better city than Manhattan to explore for your event? “Each and every day I am out and about researching the newest and most exciting of venues,” explained Lisa. “My portfolio includes the old traditional standards as well as the unusual and unique. 1.Time: Our photo portfolios of Manhattan hotels, clubs, restaurants, landmarks, and little-known private event locations are comprehensive. In less than an hour they will take a virtual tour of all locations which could work for your event. In one meeting they will view hundreds of venues without ever leaving their office — or mine.
We will save clients – Time, money and their sanity!
2.Money: Successful Affairs brings clients to these venues on a continual basis, which gives us an advantage in our negotiations to meet their budget restrictions. Allowing Successful Affairs to represent clients in vendor negotiations gives them a valuable edge.
3.Sanity: Clients may be feeling overwhelmed with the amount of details involved in planning their upcoming event.
Successful Affairs has organized thousands of events since 1988. We know all the secrets to making an event run smoothly.
After planning thousands of events, I am well connected and my reputation stands tall. From our first meeting, new clients realize the knowledge and confidence I exude. They know immediately that they made the right choice in contacting me, and any stress they might have felt prior to our meeting, just fades away!
When you’re in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, all you want to do is take in the view. There are spaces that can offer breathtaking skylines, unique perspectives and much more.
Sometimes you just need to be different, and New York certainly has it’s share of unique spaces. Make your event stand out and have people remember it. Our portfolio of properties I work with, can offer something for everyone – and every budget.
Let us help you have a Successful Affair!”Lisa Rice 212-684-6402 Find them on Facebook.
BestGayNewYork.com
Best Places in New York for Your Gay Marriage Gay Wedding Event
GAY MARRIAGE IN NEW YORK!! How exciting!
New York City has hundreds of beautiful places to get married, but narrowing them down to find the most idyllic spot for your wedding reception or ceremony isn’t easy. Here are some of our favorite spots – but really, the list is endless.
The Foundry in Long Island City, Queens. – Probably a bit “over-exposed”. Seems like every reality has shot there in the last year!
Once a 19th century metal foundry, this dramatic space now plays host to weddings, performances, corporate events, and photo shoots. Old exposed brick contrasts with modern steel railings to create a unique ambiance.
Capacity: 125 for a sit-down meal, 200 for a cocktail party, optional outdoor tent seats 160.
FLOWERS, FLOWERS, FLOWERS!
Who doesn’t love gorgeous colorful flowers everywhere? Why not have your event IN a flower shop?
Banchet Flowers and the Flower Bar. You might not think of a florist shop as the most likely spot for a wedding, but this elegant 1800 square foot space features brick walls, elegant lines, and best of all, a shop full of flowers. Designer Banchet Jaigla has designed flowers for restaurants like Windows on the World, the Thai Royal Family, and designers like Dries van Norton. As you’d expect, her arrangements are contemporary and beautiful; Those renting the space get the temporary use of any arrangements that are in the shop.
Capacity: with the next door Flower Bar, 125 for a seated reception.
MORE FLOWER SPOTS – How about an event amongst the Flowers at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden?
The first time I ever visited the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, a ceremony was happening amongst the lush flowers of the rose garden. It looked straight out of a dream. For the right kind of couple who don’t mind some strict rules and susceptibility to the weather, this is an amazing spot at budget prices. Other alternatives include having your event at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Palm House, or simply taking your wedding photography here, before a wedding elsewhere.
When you’re in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, all you want to do is take in the view. There are spaces that can offer breathtaking skylines, unique perspectives and much more.
It seems like rooftop party spaces are popping up all over the city but few have the ability to go from indoors to outdoors with the push a button.
The Lighthouse At Chelsea Piers
The thing about New York is that it’s an island, and while nobody quite wants to go in the water, the views can be pretty spectacular.
The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers is a cool space. It has the benefit of being a loft space without any of the inconveniences of having to furnish, decorate and cater yourself. It’s owned and operated exclusively by Abigail Kirsch, which means you know the food is extremely delish—not to mention plentiful.
Their staff are trained to run like a well-oiled machine, but there’s nothing impersonal about the service you’ll get. The room is cleverly sectioned off to provide “separate” spaces for the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception, so you never have to see them setting up or breaking down despite the lack of walls. For an open, airy, contemporary and clean city look, this is the spot.
You’ll have unforgetable views from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Hudson River. While the catering isn’t cheap, they have the expertise for a smooth-as-silk affair. Capacity: 100-680 for a sit-down meal (max 400 to include dancing), 1000 for a cocktail reception, if you have A LOT OF FRIENDS!
What could be MORE NEW YORK, and more romantic, than Central Park?
The Loeb Boathouse At Central Park
An urban feel, yet full of greenery. You’re in the middle of New York and in the middle of a lush landscape with a lake, rowboats, trees, birds, squirrels—the works.
It’s a photographer’s dream – and the interior is as lovely and singular as the exterior, which means that even you winter couples have every reason to marry here. Up to 230 guests for seated dinner and dancing, with dinner running around $185 per person.
The Central Park Boathouse is perhaps the most quintessentially New York spot to get married in Central Park, and where better in Central Park to have a ceremony than a terrace or windowed room overlooking the lake.
It is so peaceful and elegant. Close your eyes and you can hear the chatter of dinnerware, glasses and happy voices resonate in the air. With so many people mingling together, it is definitely the place to celebrate, dine, enjoy the great view and be seen.
If money is not object, why not do it up at Gotham Hall?! Not for the faint of heart, but if you can afford it and live up to the drama of the space around you, you must. At around $275/plate minimum, glamour does not come cheap. But this gilded former bank can hold both your entire extended family’s families and any manner of decor you can dream up. Their staff is prepared to help you with every aspect of the planning process, and the sky (or the 3,000 square foot stained-glass skylight) is the limit. If you’re low-key (who is, really?) this may not be your scene, but for those statement-makers, it doesn’t get much more fabulous.
While the space can hold up to 1200 guests (really?!), sweeping sheer curtains can make the space more intimate without blocking the hall’s amazing architecture of Corinthian columns and marble floors. Capacity: 50 to 1200
The lists in New York city are really endless. The Prince George Ballroom. (below) The grand Beaux-Arts ballroom was lovingly restored and is now part of the Madison Square North Historic District and the National Register of Historic Places. The golden columns, intricate plasterwork, and soaring ceilings create a space that is simultaneously ornate and light and airy.
The Delegates’ Dining Room at the United Nations. Surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the East River and NYC’s skyline, the main event space – the Delegates Dining Room – is large enough for a grand wedding reception. But my favorite part of this space is the outdoor patio, which has breathtaking views of the city and the Queensboro Bridge.
The Pierre hotel ballroom is about as classic a New York wedding venue as they come. If your pants are fancy, this is the place for you. Right on Fifth Avenue across from the park, this sumptuous hotel offers every service you can imagine. Custom anything and everything.
Some of the greatest night clubs are in New York City and can provide a great environment to a special event. Elegant…spacious…and full of style.
Lofts can provide a different vibe for your event. They offer the ability to visualize your event in a special way that can make it one to remember for all times.
Sometimes you just need to be different, and New York certainly has it’s share of unique spaces. Make your event stand out and have people remember it.Unique architechture and setting can provide a great energy to an event.
How do you decide?? Call Best Gay New Yorks favorite planner! Lisa Rice. She’ll do everything! And her services are FREE, to you, the client. She has relationships with venues all over the city, and will save you time, MONEY, and your Sanity. Check out Successful Affairs, and tell he we sent you!
BestGayNewYork.com
Peter Nelson Joins Chicago and Talks to GayLifeNYC.org
Gaylifenyc.org
interviews the very handsome and talented Peter Nelson.
Peter got his first Broadway role his first three months in NYC. He is a fitness pole dancer, does charity work including Broadway Bares and is a super nice and smart man.
Born and raised Morman, he LOVES sweets and chocolates – but of course, spends lots of time in the gym.
He is moved to NYC just 3 months ago and has landed a role in CHICAGO!
Lots of hot pictures of him pole dancing!
Check out Peter Nelson and Michael Cavnaugh on YouTube
GayLifeNYC.org
An eco friendly Public Pool for New York Citys Hudson River
A Floating Pool in the River For Everyone! What a cool idea!
+ Pool is our initiative to build a floating pool for everyone in the rivers of New York City, and they need your help. “With your support, we can make it possible to swim in clean, natural river water here in the city.
The most important aspect of + Pool’s design is that it filters river water through the pool’s walls – like a giant strainer dropped into the river. The concentric layers of filtration materials that make up the sides of the pool are designed to remove bacteria, contaminants and odors, leaving only safe and swimmable water that meets city, state and federal standards of quality. This pool will be the first of it’s kind, which is of course very exciting, but really we just want to be able to swim in the river.
The most important aspect of + Pool’s design is that it filters river water through the pool’s walls – like a giant strainer dropped into the river. The concentric layers of filtration materials that make up the sides of the pool are designed to remove bacteria, contaminants and odors, leaving only safe and swimmable water that meets city, state and federal standards of quality. This pool will be the first of it’s kind, which is of course very exciting, but really we just want to be able to swim in the river.
Find them a Kickstart and give them a few $$$
I’m From Driftwood Rooftop BBQ Party July 9
is now an official
501(c)(3) non-profit
organization!
Help celebrate by stuffing your face with Texas style BBQ and an open bar at the beautiful art gallery space and outdoor rooftop of Casa de Costa.Music, DJ and more!
RSVP by donating $50 and type “BBQ” in the “Add special instructions to the seller”
box on the final page: I’mfromdriftwood/support
…
Be sure to RSVP soon; ticket price goes up to $75 at the door.
RSVP on FACEBOOK
*Raffle Items
*Silent Auction items
*Open Bar, including specialty drinks by El Dorado Rum
*Unlimited BBQ
Saturday, July 9, 6 – 10pm
Casa de Costa Gallery Space and Rooftop, 11 Stone St, 6th Floor, NYC
Hope to see y’all there!
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Follow IFD on Twitter @ImFromDriftwood
Ronnie Kroell and Taylor Proffitt Talk Gay Pride and New York City
SOULMATES
are hard to find.
But when it happens…you know.
Whether it is a love relationship or a platonic friendship some connections feel deeper than others, like they have been there forever. Sometimes it is just as if you “click” and other times it is like you’ve known one another your entire lives.
As Pride month comes to an end, and with New York City on a high with gay marriage passing, we caught up with supermodel, actor, singer Ronnie Kroell recently and talked about the LOVE of his LIFE, Taylor Proffitt.
“We first met at a bar in New York City. A drag queen had brought him up on stage to tease him and kind of play with him – and I thought, gosh, this guy is gonna need a cocktail – so I ordered him a drink and we chatted a bit afterwards, but I was sort of dating this guy at the time, so it was just a friendly drink and conversation.
MONTHS PASS, and our paths crossed on a dating site. But it didn’t click at first. It wasn’t until we went out to dinner, it all come together we remembered, we had already met. So the Universe, for a 2nd time, was bringing us together, and now I was ready and open for a relationship. And actually, in looking back, we realized we had connected on MySpace, even BEFORE the chance bar meeting! So three times, we were brought together by destiny. And the rest is history!
We are both “soulful”. Sex is sex. Relationships are not easy and you need so much more than sex, to make it work. True love goes beyond sex. There’s a spiritual connection; an intellectual connection; a heart connection.
There always will be give and take. There will always be compromise and I think many couples just give up when the smallest of problems arise. They just want to walk away. Communication and honesty is paramount. “
When did you realize you were gay?
“I was in sixth grade and I had a girlfriend and we used to hold hands a lot, and that was about it. Then in my sophomore year I had another girlfriend, and I just knew it wasn’t right, it didn’t feel right. Once when we kissed, she actually said to me – “Ronnie, I think you might be gay!” – I was scared. It was very hard for me accept. And the pressure of society “norms”…so it took a while for me to come to grips with all of that. It took a while for me to get comfortable in my own new skin.
I embrace it now! And I am so excited about everything going on and our visibility with It Gets Better, the Trevor Project, HRC…Google Chrome is going to feature It Gets Better! This is an amazing and exciting time! New York just passed Gay Marriage!!
When I was 16 my mom caught me kissing a boy, out behind the house! My mom started crying and we started to argue…then my Grandmother came out and said, “Charlene, you’ve got to just love him for who he is. Otherwise I am going to clock you with my cane!”
It all boils down to fear. Fear of the unknown. And in that moment, my mom felt fear. And here is my grandmother, who was like – SO WHAT? LET’S JUST LOVE HIM!
And it took time…there was lots of dialogue and communication and eventually you reach acceptance. Now my mom and I share everything. We’re best friends! And we are SO CLOSE. I am so lucky.
Taylors parents are amazing also. It’s really been a blessing.
And Taylor chimes in…”I am so thankful as well, for my family and how accepting they are. They’ve really welcomed Ronnie with open arms, and I’m very lucky to have that.
I think of Ronnie Kroell as a very wise soul. In talking with him, he is wise beyond his years. At 28, he knows more and understands the world, more than some 40 or 50 year olds that I know.
I have friends of all ages, sizes, shapes, colors…I love to connect with people and I love learning from people. I have learned many great life lessons from all of these people I have met.
I have learned you need to be open and aware as you go through life. And when you ask the Universe for something we’re not always ready to get that gift…AND the Universe does not always present us, exactly what we asked for.
I have learned you can’t always be in control. Sometimes you have to let go and give into the Universe, and just let things happen. WALK…and don’t rush through life.
Back to Taylor!
I asked Taylor, what are some of their favorite things to do in New York…..
One of our favorite things to do in NYC is karaoke! We’ll go and rent a room with some friends or just by ourselves and sit drinking sake whilst singing to each other. Best places for that are Japas 55 (on 55th in between 8th and Bway) or if you’re on the East side Top Tunes (on 53rd in between 2nd and 1st).
Karaoke is good for night time fun, but during the day time- picnic in Central Park in Sheep’s Meadow or a more recent gem I’ve found is watching the sunset behind the city along the water in BK at the East River Park.
Our go-to restaurant is hands down Merchants NY in Chelsea. We’ve eaten there countless times just to chill with friends downstairs next to the fireplace or sit on their patio in the front and have a few cocktails. The best thing on the menu is the Rigatoni Bolognese. We’re a little obsessed! It’s located on 17th and 7th ave (easy to remember!) and is open until all hours of the night.
Another great restaurant with a bit of a different vibe, is actually right across the street! Cafeteria is an awesome place that is a great place for brunch, but its also open 24 hours so its a pretty happening spot when the clubs and bars let out. They’ve got some amazing food (and green bloody marys?!) so I’d suggest to go and check it out.
Other than that, pretty simple things. The Highline park in Chelsea, the cloisters up in the heights, or getting to trek out to the Hamptons or Fire Island during the summer. 😉
One thing is for sure, you can never get bored here in New York!
Taylor first hit the performing arts scene when he was 4 years old, spending years traveling with the Anaheim Ballet Company performing The Nutcracker. With this inspiration and experience under his belt, he traveled to Englewood, Florida where he starred in productions such as CATS, Oklahoma!, Seussical, and Thoroughly Modern Millie. After graduating, he traveled back to the Golden Coast to attend the American Music and Dramatic Academy’s Los Angeles campus. There he performed in several Dance Workshops and a showcase directed by Tony Award Winner Jane Lanier.
After two years of hard work, he graduated and set his sights on the Big Apple- New York City. Since, he has worked with Alec Baldwin and Tony Wal
ton in EQUUS at the John Drew Theatre in East Hampton and has been actively involved in playwright workshops at the Manhattan Theatre Source and The Player’s Club .
And Ronnie has been busy filming a new movie, an incredible new thriller called, “Into the Lion’s Den”, in production now. Produced by Dan Lantz and distributed by Breaking Glass Pictures, Into the Lion’s Den is a sure to keep you on the edge of your seat thriller!
Join Michael (Ronnie Kroell), Johnny (Jesse Archer), and Ted (TBD) as they embark upon a road trip from LA to NYC that will change their lives – forever. What starts out as a fun-loving and much needed adventure quickly takes a turn for the worse when the boys find themselves in an unfamiliar town and stumble – “Into the Lion’s Den”. Imagine “Deliverance” meets “Hostel” meets “Broken Hearts Club” as this moving story of friendship and self-discovery unfolds, boundaries are crossed, and the will to survive is the only ally that you have in the face of certain death.
RONNIE KROELL official site
TAYLOR PROFFITT official site
Most Photos by Getty Images photographer Bryan Bedder.
The tuxedo picture is by Jeffrey Eason.
American Flag and Pride Parade – personal archive on Ronnie and Taylor
