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WHO’S WHO: Kara Hughett

Twelve Questions. One Person. Featuring friends who intrigue us, colleagues who support us and leaders who inspire us.

After spending seven years at two New York based Public Relation firms, and three years freelancing, Kara Hughett  has mastered the business and is ready for something bigger. Kara joins the TKG team as our PR Director who, along with our Events Director Erika, spearhead TKG's exciting expansion to the United States. We get to know her better here:

Happiness =

Getting older (surprisingly!) - figuring out what makes you tick, what doesn't, and what matters most. 

What’s your mantra?

So it Goes 

You’re on a road trip, who are you listening to on the radio?

The best is driving through nature while listening to any of the Wes Anderson movie soundtracks - try it! 

The three words you use far too often are:

Awesome. Great. 'Thanks!'

What characteristic do you value most in others?

Loyalty 

Who is your literary hero?

Kurt Vonnegut (hence the 'So it Goes')

Favourite food?

Cheese in all its glorious forms. 

Who is your celebrity doppelgänger?

I've been likened to Elizabeth Berkley (a.k.a. Jessie Spano) from time to time. 

What’s your trademark item?

I'd like to say my outgoing disposition 

If you weren’t living in Toronto, where would you live?

If I wasn't in Brooklyn, I'd be living as close to the beach as possible. Or Italy!

Favourite event you’ve worked on:

amfAR's Inspiration Gala 

Coffee/Tea/Other?

coffee daily (preferably served in an actual cup rather than a paper one) and flavored soda water is my weakness. 

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WHO’S WHO: Erika Mercado

Twelve Questions. One Person. Featuring friends who intrigue us, colleagues who support us and leaders who inspire us.

Erika Mercado has worked in production, events, and journalism since 2003. She is a founding member of Mex and the City, an online community and creative agency. It seems she has always had the creative bug. Most recently, Erika joins TKG as Events Director at our New York office. Get to know Erika here:

Happiness =

Traveling 

What’s your mantra?

Always keep learning 

You’re on a road trip, who are you listening to on the radio?

Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Wonder and Rod Stewart 

The three words you use far too often are:

Epic, obviously, done and done

What characteristic do you value most in others?

Sense of humor

Who is your literary hero?

Gabriel Garcia Marquez

Favourite food?

Tuna tostada from Contramar in Mexico City

Who is your celebrity doppelgänger?

Amanda Seyfried

What’s your trademark item?

My long wavy hair

If you weren’t living in New York, where would you live?

London

Favourite event you’ve worked on:

2013 - FAILE :: DELUXX FLUXX ARCARDE during Art Basel

Coffee/Tea/Other?

Depends on what time it is.  Morning = Ice Coffee, Afternoon = Green tea and Evening = Mezcal or Aperol Spritz

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POV: Summer Sunglasses Picks

Now that music festival season is upon us, it’s time to let the season’s best summer shades shine. The Knot Group got a first hand look at the summer’s latest styles – check out our behind the scenes image below! We got the scoop from the sunglass master herself, Karir Eyewear’s **Namita Karir **, on which to rock:

Gold & Wood Altais: frame is trimmed with wood

Niloca Glita: two-toned color acetate–exclusive to Karir Eyewear in Toronto

Eyevan 718E: vintage inspired piece with beautiful filigree

Sospiri Paloma: embellished with swarovski crystals–exclusive to Karir Eyewear in Toronto 

Mykita Edmond: gold mirrored lenses, screw-less frame design

Behind the scenes: TKG’s Liz and Teddy testing out their festival gear!

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WHO’S WHO: Namita Karir

Twelve Questions. One Person. Featuring friends who intrigue us, colleagues who support us and leaders who inspire us.

As the Managing Optician at her family’s optical store, Karir Eyewear in Yorkdale Shopping Centre, Namita Karir enjoys spending her day helping customers find their perfect pair of glasses. Namita is a seasoned eyewear buyer, travelling to trade shows and meeting with designers to bring new styles to her customers, not to mention her own collection of nearly 20 frames. We get to know the woman behind the frames:

Happiness =

Waking up next to my dog. She puts a smile on my face every morning.

What’s your mantra?

No expectations, Just experiences.

You’re on a road trip, who are you listening to on the radio?

City and Color.

The three words you use far too often are:

Epic, amazeballs, nomnomnom.

What characteristic do you value most in others?

Honesty.

Who is your literary hero?

George R.R. Martin. These Game of Thrones books are unbelievable!

Favourite food?

I’m a hamburger junkie.

Who is your celebrity doppleganger?

Everyone keeps telling me Mindy Lahiri and I are similar… I’m not sure it’s a compliment.

What’s your trademark item?

I usually have pretty awesome glasses on!

If you weren’t living in Toronto, where would you live?

I hope somewhere warm and exotic, but I’d settle for Vancouver.

Favourite event you’ve worked on:

Every event that’s ever come together without a major fail!

Coffee/Tea/Other?

Wine!

Photo Credit: Jenna Marie Wakani

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RADAR: Field Trip Music and Arts Festival Hits Toronto June 6 and 7

Seen at TKG’s Field Trip media preview: Sharon & Bram hosted an impromptu sing-a-long of Peanut Butter (video here).

Field Trip tickets

Photo: Stephanie Luong

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WHO’S WHO: Teddy Wilson

Twelve Questions. One Person. Featuring friends who intrigue us, colleagues who support us and leaders who inspire us.

Teddy is TKG's newest account coordinator! Teddy loves fashion and politics, and he writes in his spare time. Learn more about him below:

Happiness =

New adventures.

What’s your mantra?

Set goals and lots of them, but don’t think life is a formula. Carve your own path!

You’re on a road trip, who are you listening to on the radio?

Anything toe-tapping from my parents’ generation: Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones to Prince, George Michael, Marvin Gaye and Michael Jackson.

The three words you use far too often are:

Exactly, busted, like.

What characteristic do you value most in others?

Ambition.

Who is your literary hero?

Holden Caulfield.

Favourite food?

Steak frites and aioli.

Who is your celebrity doppelganger?

Hayden Christensen.

What’s your trademark item?

A massive Saint Laurent suede tote – to the office, gym, events… it travels everywhere and fits everything.

If you weren’t living in Toronto, where would you live?

London.

Favourite event you’ve worked on:

The 2014 Toronto Life Most Influential Party: Newly elected John Tory was the cover boy for the issue, so it was a special moment inviting my alma matter Team Tory to the TKG event. The party was a blast – John was enjoying it to the point he was late for a trade dinner with the Premier!

Coffee/Tea/Other?

Wake Up from Greenhouse Juice.

Photo Credit: Jenna Marie Wakani

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WHO’S WHO: Melissa Augimeri

Twelve Questions. One Person. Featuring friends who intrigue us, colleagues who support us and leaders who inspire us.

TKG's Account Coordinator Mel is both a music fantatic and an (amateur) coffee addict. Spending her free time attending concerts, shopping on Queen West, and reading (she's a bookworm at heart), you can always find her singing along to whenever is currently streaming ... even if she doesn't necessarily know all the words. We get to know her better here:

Happiness =

Being surrounded by friends and family, while listening to great live music with red wine! Also, watching anything on HBO!

What’s your mantra?

You got this! (It's also my phone background)

You’re on a road trip, who are you listening to on the radio?

A mix between Mumford & Sons, John Mayer, and Taylor Swift.

The three words you use far too often are:

Great!, AHHHH, lovely.

What characteristic do you value most in others?

Positivity.

Who is your literary hero?

Jane Austen ... and Lena Dunham

Favourite food?

Chicken bowtie pasta.

Who is your celebrity doppleganger?

I've gotten a few people before: Blake Lively, Candice Accola, and Brittany Snow.

What’s your trademark item?

My iphone6 - always. in. my. hand.

If you weren’t living in Toronto, where would you live?

San Francisco.

Favourite event you’ve worked on:

So many great ones! I really enjoyed Analogue Gallery's Sound Image Competition this past March.

Coffee/Tea/Other?

Coffee! Definitely.

Photo Credit: Jenna Marie Wakani

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PLAYLIST: 40 Songs to Get You Through 21km

Photo Credit: Jenna Marie Wakani

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WHO'S WHO: Lucia Graca

Twelve Questions. One Person. Featuring friends who intrigue us, colleagues who support us and leaders who inspire us.

Lucia Graca is both the Owner and a Photographer at Toronto's Analogue Gallery. Apart from owning Analogue, Lucia also photographs iconic musicians, tours with various bands, and directs documentaries. Most recently, Lucia has curated an incredible Women in Rock exhibit as part of this year's CONTACT Photography Festival, featuring tons of legendary female musicians across multi-genres (a definite must-see!).

Happiness =

Doing what you love and being surrounded by my incredible friends and family.

What’s your mantra?

Keep moving and enjoy every moment.

You’re on a road trip, who are you listening to on the radio?

Florence and the Machine.

The three words you use far too often are:

“Remind me to…” I’m very forgetful.

What characteristc do you value most in others?

Positivity.

Who is your literary hero?

The Little Prince.

Favourite food?

Cheese.

Who is your celebrity doppleganger?

Editor's note: We think Emily Blunt!

What’s your trademark item?

Wide brimmed hat.

If you weren’t living in Toronto, where would you live?

London.

Favourite event you’ve worked on:

Field Trip.

Coffee/Tea/Other?

Green Tea.

Photo Credit: Vanessa Heins

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PLAYLIST: Spring Edition

Spring has officially sprung and we are loving it! To celebrate the change in weather and all of the exciting up-and-coming initiatives we have going on, we put together a fresh playlist to kick-off the season! We’re singing in the shower!  

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POV: How to Stay Motivated All Day at the Office

Okay, we admit it - once in a while procrastination sets in at the TKG hub and it’s hard to get back on the saddle. In order to avoid getting too off track with our work on those off days, we use a few motivational techniques to help us get through. Here we share our top three tips for staying motivated all day at the office:

1. Make a plan & prioritize.

Here at TKG we live by plans and strategies (of course!). Not only do we apply plans to our client relations, but we also make use of strategy for our own workload. Laying out what needs to be done and creating a plan of attack in advance is the best way to avoid getting overwhelmed and, in turn, stay motivated all day at the office.

2. Set realistic goals for yourself.

A great way to stay motivated throughout the workday is to have set goals for yourself in place, and checkpoints to measure your progress. In doing so, you’ll be determined to stay on track with these goals and less likely to procrastinate / veer off your work course. Remember - practice makes progress.

3. Give yourself breaks.

It isn’t realistic to work the entire day without taking some much-needed breaks. In fact, breaks are a perfect way to let your mind relax for a few minutes - we recommend taking a short walk, grabbing a quick coffee or even engaging in a brief stretch session. We promise you’ll come back rejuvenated and refreshed!

Photo: Jenna Marie Wakani

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CHECKLIST: 5 Foods for Flawless Skin

We revel in a few glimpses of sunshine, celebrate a few days without deadly wind chills and suddenly old man winter feels like a distant memory. Our skin, showing battle wounds from the wicked winter weather, seems to be less forgetful. It’s no secret the frigid temps and blistering winds leave our skin dry and feeling worn. In an effort to restore the dewy, glowing complexion we’re used to, many of us are quick to slather on an array of lotions and potions. While this may feel like a “quick fix,” our skin can only look its best if we work from the inside out.

What does this mean? Our skin is a direct reflection of our overall health. As our largest organ and with “elimination” high on its job description, any toxins or poor food choices inside our body will inevitably show on the outside. Swapping out the bad foods (I know, I know) and including some nutrient-dense, fibrous super foods will work 100x better than any cream in the long run and your wallet will thank you too.

To get you started, here are five foods to focus on for beautiful, healthy skin:

1. Lemon water (ok - technically a drink)

In the field of holistic nutrition, drinking lemon water in the morning is often referred to as the “single best thing you can do for your health.” And for good reason.  We know that drinking more water (filtered whenever possible – it really does make a difference) helps rinse our bodies of toxins and keeps our cells hydrated and plump. But, adding the juice of half a freshly squeezed lemon adds a power punch of benefits: lemons are packed with Vitamin C (helps with the formation of collagen), are potent natural cleansers and are very alkaline in the body (even though they have an acidic pH).

Note: Make sure to rinse your mouth with pure water after drinking to protect your teeth enamel.

2. Avocado

We’re way passed thinking healthy fats make us fat, right? Hopefully we’re all in agreement that avocados are superfoods, but, it may be less known how their super powers benefit our skin. The high amounts of healthy fats aid in adding moisture and elasticity to our skin and their high concentration of B vitamins is great for getting rid of redness and blotchy patches.

3. Green Tea

The benefits of drinking tea in and of itself are plenty. However, it also helps that more green tea = less coffee (Sorry. Coffee is dehydrating and acidic – neither great for super skin. Moving on.) Green tea is a powerful antioxidant, working to fight several factors that accelerate aging. As a result, it’s been shown to slow the formation of wrinkles, reduce redness and tone the skin.

4. Fermented Foods

Probiotics. Yes, we know they’re in yogurt, we know they’re supposed to be good for us – but why? Probiotics are living microorganisms – mostly bacteria – that are very similar to the good bacteria that exist naturally in our gut. They are little powerhouses – working to promote a healthy gastrointestinal tract, help us absorb certain vitamins and boost our immune system. But they are also very beneficial for our skin. They can slow aging (sign you up, right?), promote clear skin, balance hormones and even help remove toxins from the body – all essential for giving us that gorgeous glow we’re seeking. While they can be taken as supplements, probiotics are also present in high concentrations in fermented foods. Huh? To help clarify – the most recognizable fermented foods are kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, miso and the increasingly popular kombucha.

5. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil used to receive a bad rap for being too high in saturated fat. However, it’s important to note that the saturated fat found in this oil is a medium-chain fatty acid, meaning it does not get stored as fat, but rather used as fuel. It’s great for cooking but turns out it’s also the beauty world’s version of a “superfood.” As a natural antibacterial and antifungal, it’s an excellent moisturizer. Apply as soon as you get out of the shower in order to “lock in” moisture. In summary: buy buckets of this stuff.

P.S: Another reason to take a food-focused approach to healthy skin is that many commercially sold beauty products carry a cocktail of chemicals with them. Frequently used toxins in our personal care products include hormone disruptors and cancer-causing agents. Be an informed consumer.

P.P.S: This is (obviously) very high-level. Focusing on what not to eat can be just as important as focusing on what to eat. It’s also important to note that food is just one component of health. More serious skin problems like eczema and rashes can be a result of poor digestion or absorption. See a natural health practitioner if you’re seeking a more detailed assessment.

Post by: Kate Taylor Martin is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist based in Toronto.

Photo: Jenna Marie Wakani

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WHO’S WHO: Kate Taylor Martin

Twelve Questions. One Person. Featuring friends who intrigue us, colleagues who support us and leaders who inspire us.

Kate Taylor Martin is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist based in Toronto. Her food-philosophy is real and uncomplicated: eat whole food most of the time, have junk once in a while if you feel like it, never sacrifice taste and enjoy your food.

Happiness =

Waking up at the cottage in Georgian Bay with a house full of family and friends, the Sunday Times and breakfast from the garden.

What’s your mantra?

Be curious.

You’re on a road trip, who are you listening to on the radio?

The Eagles on repeat.

The three words you use far too often are:

“This is the best thing I have ever tasted in my life” – sorry, that’s 12.

What characteristic do you value most in others?

Creativity.

Who is your literary hero?

Dagny Taggart and/or Atticus Finch.

Favourite food?

Any healthy sweet treat that tastes like it should be terrible for you.

Who is your celebrity doppleganger?

A little girl started crying with excitement on a plane once because she thought I was Kate Middleton.

What’s your trademark item?

iPhone 6+ – it’s huge but my hands are far from dainty so it works.

If you weren’t living in Toronto, where would you live?

I’d cycle between NYC and Nosara, Costa Rica.

Favourite health food product:

Natural Calm. It’s a miracle tea – drink a teaspoon in hot water at night and it feels like you’ve had three glasses of red wine (minus the poor judgment and hangover). Considered an “anti-stress” drink, it’s instantly relaxing, promotes deep sleep and also gives the body a boost of magnesium which is essential for many vital bodily functions.

Coffee/Tea/Other?

A lot of tea, a little coffee.

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CHECKLIST: Media Pitching

1. Keep it short and sweet.

I’ve learned verily quickly that a key component of a great media pitch is keeping it short and simple.  Editors don’t have time to read through long-winded emails - get to the point right away. All you need is a great hook to receive a bite.   

2. Personalize your pitch.

No one wants to receive a pitch that isn’t tailored to their interests / what they write about. Make sure you tailor each and every pitch you send out to your contacts’ individual beats. For example, I’ve had great luck mentioning a recent tweet or instagram photo that they’ve posted when pitching - it shows you’re engaged in their content and are paying attention to what they have to say!

3. Make use of a great subject line.

This is the first thing someone will see when they notice your email in their inbox, so make it count! Make sure it’s engaging as it is essentially the first hook and difference between them opening your email right away or leaving it for later.  

4. Link to the most recent press release about the client you’re pitching.

Including a link to the most recent press release about your client is a great and easy way to share more information without going on and on in an email. I’ve found this to be extremely effective and, in fact, when not included it is often asked for later in the conversation.

5. Follow-up.

Editors / writers typically receive an overwhelming amount of pitches a week so don’t be surprised if you don’t get a response right away. Rather than just waiting to receive a response (because often you won’t) follow-up in a timely manner.  I usually like to follow-up about a week after sending out a media pitch.

Photo: Jenna Marie Wakani

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CHECKLIST: Earth Month

Happy Earth Month! While working with clients such as Aveda Canada, who launched its global Earth Month initiatives on April 1st, we like to get extremely into helping the cause. To demonstrate our efforts, TKG’s Account Manager Liz shares the top five ways she’ll be extra environmentally friendly this April here:

 1. Aveda Earth Month Candle

2. Starbucks Mugs

3. Metropass

4. Re-useable Water Bottle

5. Participate in events during Earth Month: Aveda’s Cut-A-Thon + Walk for Water

Photos: Jenna Marie Wakani

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WHO’S WHO: Amy Burstyn-Fritz

Twelve Questions. One Person. Featuring friends who intrigue us, colleagues who support us and leaders who inspire us.

TKG Partner by day, champion of Toronto's cultural initiatives and avid traveller by night (and weekend!) -- Amy Burstyn-Fritz is one busy-bee. Get to know her here:

Happiness =

Family.

What’s your mantra?

I'll sleep when I'm dead.

You’re on a road trip, who are you listening to on the radio?

For road trips I like to go old school with anything from classic rock (Stones, G&R, Morrison...) to classic belt-em-out girl anthems (Destiny’s Child, TLC, Madonna…) If my husband’s in the car I spare him with the former tracks.

The three words you use far too often are:

Connect, love, babe.

What characteristic do you value most in others?

Sense of humour.

Who is your literary hero?

Jane Austen.

Favourite food?

Cheese (the smellier the better).

Who is your celebrity doppleganger?

Lady Gaga.

What’s your trademark item?

Helmut Lang leather pants.

If you weren’t living in Toronto, where would you live?

New York.

Favourite event you’ve worked on:

Luminato Big Bang Bash at The Hearn Generating Station.

Coffee/Tea/Other?

Coffee (on IV drip).

Photo: Jenna Marie Wakani

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CHECKLIST: De-stress Before Event Day

Event day is always a whirlwind filled with last minute changes, final installations and putting out last minute fires. TKG Partner Hilary shares with us the five ways that she de-stresses before the big day.

1. Follow-up with all vendors.

Your vendors are your most important asset in ensuring a successful event. The day before I always ensure to touch base with each individual vendor to ensure everything is set for event day.

2. Ensure all printing is complete.

We’ve all been there, printing lists 5 minutes before doors open. To avoid last minute panic, I always like to have the majority of my printing done the day before.

3. Ensure all technology is working.

Technology is a lifesaver, until it turns on you. When using any technology at an event I always double and triple check that each item is fully charged and functioning and that I have a back up plan in case something fails.

4. Get a good night sleep.

Easier said than done, but event day is always full of long days on your feet and so the night before an event I try and get a good rest and wake up early ready to execute a stellar event!

5. Drink lots of water.

Running around on event day you can often forget to drink water which can catch up with you mid event - to try and combat this in the few days leading up  to the event I try and drink double the amount of water I normally do.

Photo: Jenna Marie Wakani