BOOBOO STEWART AND FIVEL STEWART INTERVIEW

You may know Booboo Stewart the actor who plays Seth Clearwater in the Twilight Saga box office hit movies, but I want to introduce you to Booboo Stewart the guitar strumming rocker along with his sister Fivel Stewart the singer/songwriter who have joined forces to form the brother/sister musical duo “BOOBOO & FIVEL” whose upbeat alternative rock songs prove to the world that the Stewart family knows how to rock out.  I got a chance to hang out with Booboo and Fivel at the L.A. Twilight Convention that took place on March 5, 2011 at the Marriott LAX Hotel. 

During our interview, we were constantly interrupted by Booboo’s adoring Twilight fangirls begging for his autograph. But that didn’t bother me. In fact, it gave me a chance to observe how he interacts with his fans. And, I was really impressed. I can now say he is one of the nicest celebrities I know. He never lost his composure or seemed to get tired of all the attention. He was very polite and took the time to smile and speak to every starry eyed girl that approached him. 

And, there were a lot! That just goes to show you how much he appreciates his fans. As for me? Yes. He treated me like a Princess too! He answered all my questions and had no problem posing with me for photos I am excited to share with you! I must confess. I thought Booboo only had one sister, but in fact he actually has three sisters! Maegan who is the oldest and plays bass guitar in their band and Sage who is the youngest sibling. I have another confession to make. Fivel and Booboo look so much alike that I mistook them for twins. But, they are not twins. Fivel is actually younger and just as much fun to hang out with as her brother except she likes to talk about fashion a lot more than he does. Lol! 

I hope my interview with Booboo and Fivel Stewart inspires you to check out their music. They have an awesome CD available as well as an upcoming tour.  Perhaps they will be rockin’ out in your hometown! I know I will be in the front row at their L.A. show, so I hope to see you there! In the meantime, you can request their single “Rainy Day” at your local radio station and download it on Itunes!

Princess Kisses XOXO!

Tatiana Mclane

Queenie4ever

1.What is your clothing style?

B: Whatever is in my closet. I don’t go shopping very often. I do get gifts from designers a lot thought like H&M or Forever 21.
F: I’m not the jeans and a t-shirt kind of person. I would just describe my style as different. I love Forever 21.


2. What genre of music do you sing?

B: Electric Alternative Rock


3. Who writes the music?

B: I write the melody
F: I write the lyrics


4. Have you ever collaborated with anyone?

B: Gregg Sartiano


5.What kinds of bands or groups are you similar to?

B: We have a unique style
F: We really like Katy Perry and Metro Station


6.What inspires your music?

F: Family
B: Our album is about changing.


7. What is your favorite venue to play at?

B: Knotts Berry Farm. The stage was Western themed and it was really cool.


8. What do you do on your set downtime?

F: Eat Kraft services
B: Memorize my lines for the next scene


9. What is the strangest thing you’ve been asked to do on an audition?

F: During your first stages of auditioning sometimes you’re asked to do things that you aren’t used to yet.
B: I’ve met some strange people at auditions.

Twilight Saga Movie Star Booboo Stewart & Queenie4ever
teen fashion designer Tatiana Mclane
    2011 Twilight Convention LAX Marriott L.A., CA
    Photo Credit: Venice Wong

10. What has been your weirdest or most memorable fan experience?

F: I’ve never had any weird fan experiences and I hope I don’t have any in the future
B: I shook this girls hand and she started crying


11. Who is your favorite band?

B: Boston
F: Pink and Katy Perry


12. What do you enjoy most about performing live?

B: The interaction and energy you get from the fans.
F: The comfort that my family is there performing with me and they will love me no matter what.

BOOBOO & FIVEL Press Photo for "Rainy Day" Single

13. Do you prefer acting or singing more?

B: Acting is more my thing.
F: Singing is more my thing.


14. What got you started to begin both a singing and acting career?

B: My dad is a stunt coordinator and that got me launched into acting
F: I started doing stunting first as well and where we practiced also offered singing lessons and I began to take them.


15. Where were you and what was your first reaction when you found out you got the role of Seth Clearwater?

B: I was in my kitchen and my first reaction was I was so excited. I didn’t even know what to think. But then I had to go do yard work.


16. Do you have any role models?

F: Pink and Katy Perry
B: Buckethead

Actress/Singer Fivel Stewart & Queenie4ever
teen fashion designer Tatiana Mclane
    2011 Twilight Convention LAX Marriott L.A., CA
    Photo Credit: Venice Wong

17. What kind of school do you go to?

F: We’re homeschooled. I do my lessons by books and Booboo does his on Cd’s. I have about 3 years left of school.
B: I have about a year left of school.


18. Where did you grow up?

F: L.A.


19. What is next for Booboo and Fivel Stewart?

B: We’re shooting a movie called Jake Stevens the Last Protector.


20. What advice would you give to someone who wants to be an actor and/or singer?

B: You have to accept being rejected and try 110%.


21. Where can my fans find out more about you?

B: Our twitter is mammarazzi1

Facebook.com/the.real.booboo.stewart

Facebook.com/therealfivelstewart

Check out Booboo and Fivel Stewart's Official Music Video for "Rainy Day"!

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JACKSON RATHBONE INTERVIEW

I am one lucky girl to have had the opportunity to hang out with Twilight movie star and member of indie band 100 Monkeys Jackson Rathbone on Valentine’s Day. To just relax and have a normal conversation with a person you realize has reached celebrity status not to mention is considered one of the most beautiful men in the world is pretty amazing for a teen girl like myself. Jackson and I spoke about a lot of things but mainly about music, since we both are music lovers. I want to learn as much as I can about the history of music, and Jackson is a great teacher. I enjoyed our conversation so much that I wanted to share some of what Jackson had to say about where he feels the music industry is headed as far as a new movement towards what he calls a new Bohemia as the giants (major record labels) fall by the way side opening up the doors for bands to reach fans one on one thanks to the internet. Jackson is a walking encyclopedia of music history which makes him a true musician, because he actually understands where his musical influences came from and where he can embellish upon his predecessors’ styles to create his own unique take on his idols such as David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, The Pixies, and to present day artist Jack White. We ended our time together with an impromptu tap dance session. Yes, that’s correct. Jackson Rathbone asked me Tatiana Mclane to “tap dance with him darlin’ ” in his sultry southern accent. As Rachel Zoe would say: “I die” and I thought I had gone “ Bananas” trying to tap dance with Jackson wearing my brand new Audrey Hepburnesque kitten heel silver metallic sling backs slipping off my feet. Lol! Jackson is a “Jack” of all trades when it comes to being an entertainer not only can he tap dance, but he can sing, write songs, produce bands, DJ, paint artwork, write novels, and act on the big screen. If there’s a project that requires creativity, talent, and passion Jackson is your guy! And, he’s got a great sense of humor which makes him a really fun person to be around! Just read his interview answers and see what I mean.

Princess Kisses XOXO

Tatiana Mclane Queenie4ever


JACKSON RATHBONE”S TOP FAVORITES LIST

Favorite color - red or green
Favorite poet - TS Eliot
Favorite artist. Andy Warhol
Favorite hairstyle - just woke up
Favorite midnight snack - roast beef on cold cheese pizza
Favorite acting role - the one I haven't done yet
Greatest concert you’ve attended or played
Pixies reunion tour, first concert back... Amazing.
How do you describe the color of your eyes
I don't... because my driver's license expired... and that said what color my eyes are... so now I don't know.
Favorite motto/quote to live by
Give respect to get respect, give love to get love - my dad

JACKSON RATHBONE: "Trying to let others in on your inner passion. To inspire someone with how much you love, I believe is the goal of the artist."

1. Please describe your sense of style such as clothing brands you like to wear or accessories.

I like the southern gentleman look, with a bit of whatever-I'm-feeling thrown in. I don't like sneakers... on my feet.

Tatiana Mclane and Jackson Rathbone @
M Bar Hollywood, CA Feb. 14, 2011
Photo Credit: Venice Wong

2. Jackson I really like your entrepreneurial spirit which apparently began at a young age. You mentioned a DJ gig you used to do as a teenager can you tell us about that and how you came up with that idea? Did you have a cool DJ nickname? You even DJ’d your high school dance. How’d you coordinate dancing with your date and DJing? What did you do with the money you earned from DJ gigs? Would you ever consider DJing events in the future?

Started DJing when I was 13 at friends parties. My buddy Jon and I had access to his older brother's old, unused DJ gear ( a mixer and some speakers) , we decided to bring the gear to our friend Monica's birthday party. That was my first gig… by the time we were 16 we were using turntables and making $150 an hour at big events, and charging friends $50 a show whenever they wanted. I think I went by DJ Joyride…. kinda lame now, but I liked it then. DJing prom was difficult… but my date was understanding… (Katie! Wherever you are, thank you for being so understanding!) As per money made, I mostly just saved it, or bought my girlfriends stuff, like corny engraved bracelets and "fancy" Olive Garden dinners. I would definitely love to DJ again… I did a year ago at a bar in Vegas, it did feel good. Shall DJ Joyride ride again? Probably, not… but I might consider it.

3. Where did you learn to tap dance? You are pretty good. If I had known you were gonna ask me to tap with you, I would have brought my tap shoes. Tapping in high heels is hard! My shoes kept slipping off. lol! Which brings me to the subject that got us on tap dancing in the first place. You were talking about a female artist that tap dances instead of using a drum or percussion section. That’s so innovative, almost tribal like, such as hand clapping or using your body to make the beats. Who is the artist, and how did you discover her?

I learned to tap dance in Texas, along with ballroom, jazz, and musical theatre. Thanks to the lovely Judy of the Pickwick Players of Midland, Texas, and Ruth Cole of the Midland Community Theatre. I just enjoy doing a little soft shoe every once in awhile, now.

Jackson Rathbone performing @ Hearts Afire
Charity Event sponsored by Word Theatre @ M Bar
Hollywood, CA Feb. 14, 2011
Photo Credit: Venice Wong

4. You are definitely a person that knows how to keep themselves busy. What do you do when you have down time?

Interviews.

5. You mentioned that you may be releasing paintings and a book of poetry. Do you have any more information on that? Can you share a short sample of your work?

That's still in the works… However, I just did my first painting project in a long time, and I feel it came out successful. Will Schmidt, director of several 100 Monkeys music vids (Ugly Girl, Kolpix), shot the painting process on video and is editing the footage into a new music video as we speak. That should be coming out soon on 100MonkeysMusic.com
Plus, the 100 Monkeys book is available for pre-sale now as well…

6. You also mentioned that you are planning on producing a bunch of bands and creating an internet based venue to showcase bands. Can you tell us more about that project?

It's called Awesome Sauce Radio, it will be on the internet, more information will be available in the coming months. I like to keep people in suspense.

7. You talked about the music biz going back to the times of the 1960s where it was all about the song. Can you explain what you mean?
How about the 100 Monkeys? Are you guys trying to break a song? If yes which song?

I believe History is cyclical and time wraps around itself. A new Bohemia of the arts is just on the precipice, artists are finding their audiences directly, thanks to new media outlets and the fall of the giants. Over at 100 Monkeys, we aren't trying to lead the charge, but we know that the coming time for music will be a New Bohemia for rock-n-roll and the people that love the music. It's not just about a song, it's about the public's connection to that song.
You asked me if I watched Dylan’s performance at the Grammy’s. Yes of course! I never miss Grammy night, since I am a music lover as well part of a music biz family.

8. What did you love most about Dylan’s performance?

He teased us with that harmonica the entire song. When he finally played it, he was holding it upside down. Amazing. A. May. Zing. 

9. What’s your educational background? How did you learn to play so many instruments? How many do you know how to play? Do you collect instruments? What is your favorite instrument?

Uhhh… I graduated High School from Interlochen Arts Academy. I learned to play different instruments out of a need to create my own band in Garageband when I was 18 and first moved out to LA on my own. I didn't know any other musicians, and I was shy about my songs and recordings, so I just played all of the parts. Now, I play nearly ten different instruments confidently. I'm no prodigy, but I do collect instruments… I have too many, but my favorite is named Aurora, and she's a Blonde '57 Gibson semi-hollow body. I love her.

Jackson Rathbone on keyboards with his band
100 Monkeys @ The Roxy Hollywood, CA Feb. 19, 2011
Photo Credit: Venice Wong

10. Explain the creation of the 100 Monkeys band? How did you guys meet and form the band? Can you give a short intro of each band member such as their name and instruments and what you love about them the best or what you feel they contribute to make your band complete?

We've all been friends for some time, and we always played music, together or separately. As 100 Monkeys, we started an open mic jam night on Tuesdays at a local bar, after we had an accidental show there the night before. By accidental, I mean we were jamming in the bar because we knew the owner and the bar was off that night, so we could jam without the police showing up at my apartment again. During that jam session, a couple walked in off the street, as the bar-owner had forgotten to lock-up, and they started dancing to the music. The bar owner, a friendly guy, poured them free drinks when they asked, and soon more people walked in, and we just kept playing. 100 Monkeys is the five friends who started jamming at a closed bar, and packed the place. The band is the five of us. Check out the website for info on the band members, everybody plays too many instruments for me to try and list. 100monkeysmusic.com

11. How did you guys come up with the name of the band 100 Monkeys? What’s the meaning behind it?

The name derived from a certain scientific theory of the collective conscious, as well as the 100 Monkeys Infinite Theory. I suppose we are kinda geeky, but cuddly as well, therefore the name works great. A greater meaning behind it is the Collective Consciousness ideal… but I like to pretend it's because we each have 20 monkeys living in our heads.

12. I really want to know more about your involvement with the 100 Monkeys. I was blown away at your live show last October. You guys are amazing live! The entertainment and interactive with the audience is refreshing versus just watching a visual choreographed music video, because you guys actually get the audience involved. I like the songs you make up on the spot. That takes a lot of guts and talent. Whose idea was that?

The improv songs are part of our history. As I said before, our first show was accidental, so we played an entire jazz-rock set that we made up as we went along. We also recorded our first album as a concept of that, having one take for the final vocals, and only using one take of the base instrumentation. We love to play with our audience, as opposed to playing to them. Now we save one song a night as an improv song that the audiences chooses.

100 Monkeys @ The Roxy Hollywood, CA Feb. 19, 2011
Photo Credit: Venice Wong

13. Who are your musical idols? What kind of music did you grow up listening to? How would you describe the 100 Monkeys style of music? What genre do you feel you guys fit in?

Spencer Bell is a huge idol. Check him out. Then there's the popular artists: Ween, David Bowie, Muddy Waters, The Rolling Stones, The Who, Jack White, Daniel Johnston… the list goes on and on. Our eclectic taste in music fuels our eclectic set of genre-hopping songs, we have rock, funk, soul, jazz, country, ballads, and punk all within our set. As per genre we fit? I don't really know… I guess at record stores you would look under "Indie" music.

14. I know you wish more people from this generation understood the history of music. In fact, it surprised you that you had to give a VH1 interviewer a lesson on the history of the Blues. Can you repeat that lesson, because I think it’s really vital that we know where our musical roots came from, so we can appreciate music on a deeper level not just something to bop our heads to but to really make us sit back and think.

That was a long time ago… But it basically goes along the idea of tracing your idols. Who do you love? Mine goes back to Robert Johnson… and then Robert Johnson to Muddy Waters, to Rolling Stones, to The Who, to the Ramones, to the Pixies, to Jack White. I love music.

Jackson Rathbone performing with100 Monkeys
@ The Roxy Hollywood, CA Feb. 19, 2011
Photo Credit: Venice Wong

15. Do you guys write all your own songs? How about you? How do you get inspired to write? What’s your creative songwriting process like?

100 Monkeys perform all originals, but occasionally we throw in a cover song by Spencer Bell. Whenever I get the feeling, I take out the black moleskin notebook I always carry and scrawl something out. Everyday I wake up is an inspiration. I mostly do my writing between three to five AM.

16. What’s the most rewarding thing for you about being a professional musician/recording artist?

An audience singing back words you scrawled down to describe some feeling at some un-Godly hour of the night, and suddenly realizing that you don't own those words or feelings any longer, the audience now does.

17. Can you share some of your fondest moments while on tour with the 100 Monkeys? What’s it like traveling in a van/bus together? How do you guys keep from getting on each others nerves on the road?

The road is awesome… it's also rough on the ole' voice box. We've begun to drink more tea and less whiskey in the morning… though the whiskey helps not to get on each others nerves… joking. Mostly. Boardgames are also fun.

Jackson Rathbone @ The Roxy Hollywood, CA Feb. 19, 2011
Photo Credit: Venice Wong

18. What is going on with your movie “Girlfriend”? You are fundraising thru a very innovative internet campaign. That’s really cool. Can you explain how we can get involved in helping you get your movie distributed? Are the 100 Monkeys songs used in the movie?

Go check out indegogo.com and type in "Girlfriend" to the search bar. All the information is right there.

19. Any favorite, memorable, and/or crazy fan stories you want to tell us about?

I forgot my ID before going to a bar, and once I got there, the hostess convinced the manager to let me in without the ID because it said my birthday on my IMDB page. Thanks nice lady hostess and thanks IMDB!

20. Jack White’s name popped up in a conversation you were having with my Dad. He got to attend an L.A. show featuring Wanda Jackson and Jack White which you missed, because you were out of town. But, Dad showed you photos from the show on my new camera that Ashton Kutcher convinced me I just had to have. Is Jack White someone you would like to collaborate with? Didn’t you mention you would grow your hair out long and you, Jack White, and someone else you mentioned named Jack could form a trio called Jack the Ripper? I think that would be awesome! Did you think of this concept off the top of your head because, you seem to do that a lot or was it already a thought in the back of your mind. You are really creative, and you have a knack for coming up with cool ideas on the spot. Where does all this talent come from? Were you just born that way or how’d you develop it? Anyone in your family musically inclined? What does your family think about what you do?

Jack White is very much someone I'm inspired by and would love to collaborate with… I think the band was Jack White, Jack Black, and Jack(son) Rathbone… That would be funny at least… I don't really remember because I do come up with a lot of ideas at once, which is why I'm always busy, I suppose.

Frankie Clarke (Queenie4ever muse),
Tatiana Mclane (Queenie4ever fashion designer),
& Uncle Larry (100 Monkey band member)
@ The Roxy Hollywood, CA Feb. 14, 2011
Photo Credit: Venice Wong

21. If you could have a jam session with any famous person living or dead who would that be and why? What songs would be on the set list?

Robert Johnson. I'd just watch his hands and learn.

22. You are such an inspiration to young people all over the world who admire all your successes and enjoy watching you follow and fulfill your dreams with such an intense passion and love for what you are doing. You really seem to have a positive outlook on life and are extremely driven to succeed. What advice can you share with them about following their own dreams and passions?

Passion is the greatest gift of all. To pursue a craft in the arts is noble, but to pursue passion for passion's sake is the destination. If you love something, practicing should be no chore, the smallest gig could be the biggest, and others will love it too. Love inspires love. Happiness comes from within and goes without. Trying to let others in on your inner passion, to inspire someone with how much you love, I believe, is the goal of the artist. As Keith Richards said, "every artist wants 'He Passed It On' on his gravestone." (paraphrased there a tad bit from an old Rolling Stone interview)

100 Monkeys

23. Thank you so much Jackson for hanging out with me and my parents at the M Bar. It made it a very special Valentine’s Day! I wish you the best of luck in all your upcoming projects. I highly recommend your band 100 Monkeys as a must see! Where can my fans find out more information about the 100 Monkeys?

Thanks very much for you and your family coming out to M Bar for the Word Theatre fundraiser, that was very sweet of y'all to support such a great cause. http://www.wordtheatre.com/

As per 100 Monkeys, just go check out 100MonkeysMusic.com for more info.

Thanks again!

much love,

-jackson


CHECK OUT YOUTUBE FOR 100 MONKEYS MUSIC VIDEOS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOPP3r3Ci2M
(Special thanks to Lani Sarem 100 Monkeys awesome publicist!)

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BRENDAN ROBINSON INTERVIEW

GETTING TO KNOW PRETTY LITTLE LIARS’ BRENDAN ROBINSON

If someone asked me to describe one of Hollywood’s hottest up and coming young actors Brendan Robinson in one word I would have to say "Adorable." And, judging from his over 15,000 Twitter followers, I’m not the only girl that feels this way. I got the chance to sit down and interview Brendan at one of his favorite L.A. restaurants. He is easily recognizable from playing Lucas on the ABC hit show Pretty Little Liars. Girls can’t seem to resist Lucas’ wavy brown hair, sparkling hazel eyes, and geek chic charm, or feel sorry for him, because he has a major crush on Hanna. Unfortunately, he doesn’t feel like a popular girl like her would ever go for a geeky guy like him. Yet, am I the only one who noticed that he’s the only person Hanna can just relax and be herself with? Will Lucas overcome his lack of confidence and will Hanna see that true love can be found where you least expect it? Will Lucas and Hanna finally become a couple? You will just have to stay tuned and watch the season finale! Meanwhile, if you are wondering if Brendan is anything like his character Lucas, all I can say is yes and no. After watching several episodes of Pretty Little Liars and spending a whole afternoon hanging out with Brendan, I noticed Brendan has similar facial expressions such as the way he looks at you or the way he smiles. But, his personality is way more confident, relaxed, and friendly than Lucas. Moreover, Brendan is super nice in person! I hope you enjoy getting to know the real Brendan Robinson, just as much as I enjoyed interviewing him.

Princess Kisses XOXO
Tatiana Mclane
Queenie4ever

Actor Brendan Robinson from Pretty Little Liars and Queenie4ever teen fashion designer Tatiana Mclane @ Kolaks Woodshed Young Talent Nite Hollywood, California


1. How would you describe your clothing style?

It has evolved over the years I use to like Urban Outfitters. I worked at Gap as a struggling actor. They had good discounts. I like Ben Sherman and Calvin Klein. I wear Lucky brand jeans.

2. Why did you come out to L.A?

At age 5, I was put into acting classes. I grew up doing theater and plays instead of sports. There wasn’t in my mind another career option. When I was a senior in high school, I was in a movie and realized I really like film and television. I was able to sign with an agent before I moved here which was the big reason I moved. I was a little on the fence on it as to deciding whether to jump into the business or go to college. The movie gig was a sign that I should try acting.

3. Where is Pretty Little Liars filmed?

The WB studios

4. If you were not an actor what do you think you would do instead?

I would like to be a set designer if not an actor

5. What is a typical day like on set?

It starts really early in the day like 6 am for make up and wardrobe. We shoot at 8. We shoot 8 pages a day of a script. We do a rehearsal once with the set director. Each episode is shot over 7 days. Each day is different. There’s a lot of down time. 10-14 hour workdays are common.

6. Have you read any of the Pretty Little Liar books to get a better understanding of your character?

I’ve only read the parts my character is in. I’ve taken elements from the book and made it my own. I felt like reading the books in their entirety wasn’t necessary because there was going to be a different interpretation than the book where he (Lucas Gottesman) was described as a blond, gangly, diamond in the rough.

7. What were you like in high school?

I went to a really tiny high school that was an art based high school called The Northwest Academy located in Portland, Oregon. We had a lot of performing and visual arts classes. I only graduated with 16 other people. Everyone knew each other. I was a floater into different groups. I was very into schoolwork. I was a little bit of a nerd; I was the valedictorian of my graduating class. People were surprised that I didn’t want to go college and instead move to L.A..

8. Do you enjoy taking picture like Lucas does?

The big thing in my school was black and white photography. The kids could leave campus to take photos of downtown. However, I only took one class and decided I did not have a talent for photoplay. I’m glad I know how to kind of work a camera. I was on an episode of Cold Case where my character was also a yearbook photographer. It’s funny how photography has been a theme in my career so far.

9. What do you do on your downtime on the set?

I talk with people and share stories, learn my lines, or eat Kraft services.

10. Are you close with any of your cast mates?

I’m a good friend with Chuck Hittinger who plays Sean. It’s funny because we play archenemies on the show. I am also friends with Janel Parrish, who plays Mona, who is really sweet in person despite her character and Tammin Sursok who plays the blind girl, Jenna.

11. Your birthday was on Tuesday. How did you celebrate?

We went to Lucky Strike Lanes and had a party. My parents came down for a week. I had a lot of sweets. A lot of the Pretty Little Liar cast was there as well. We bowled and played pool and had a really great time.

12. What was your favorite toy as a child?

My favorite thing when I was a kid, that I couldn’t be separated from were these plastic toys like Leggos called Playmobile. I had like a circus set and I would put on shows in my room. I use to wish I could be in the circus. This may be why I wanted to be an actor. I had a childhood obsession with the circus.

13. What are your hobbies?

I do a lot of running, internet surfing, reading, hanging out with people, hiking and writing. I use to be into rock climbing. I was in a club during middle school. I’d love to get back into that.

14. Do you have any hidden talents?

I juggle. I learned it in an acting class. One day it just kind of clicks.

15. Many people are very into Glee; Do you have any musical talents or aspirations? If so, would you ever want to pursue a singing career?

I took voice lessons for 5-6 years. I did a lot of musicals. Maybe if the opportunity presents itself.

16. The show has some pretty unique music what type of music do you listen to?

I listen to a lot of rock music and alternative rock. I’m into specific songs versus an entire collection. Right now I’ve been listening to a lot of the Killers, Florence and the Machine, Neon trees, and Pink. I like songs that have an upbeat sound to it. I don’t listen to mellow music when I run.

17. If you had the chance to meet Lucas what advice would you give him?

You’re a good person and things are going to be okay. I think sometimes he feels like there’s something wrong with him.

18. Were your high school dances as interesting as they are in Pretty Little Liars?

Yes, we use to do an annual Pirate dance where we would dress up as pirates. We also had a prom where every grade was invited because there were only like 80 kids in the school and tickets were cheap so you could invite your friends from other schools to have a full room. The theme of my sophomore prom was a black and white swing dance. My junior year was a salsa dance with non-alcoholic drinks and a Latin theme. My senior year was at an art gallery. Since the school didn’t have a gym, we would always need a venue. We once had a dance in an abandoned storefront. My freshman year was at a yacht club. The Pretty Little Liars were a little different than mine were.

19. Are you as addicted to your cell phone as the girls on Pretty Little Liars are?

I’m addicted to my apple products. I left my phone at home two weeks ago for 3 hours and I felt like something was missing from my life or I was going to missing something important.

20. How often do you tweet?

My tweeting fluctuates. I may respond to everyone or not go on for two weeks. I sometimes get bored of it or just check it cuz I have it. I’ll be more than happy to respond to those who tweet me. I love to talk to my fans even in person, so don’t hesitate to come up to me. My twitter is brendanrobinson.

21. What is your most memorable, crazy, or favorite fan encounter?

I had someone slip a note under my apartment door. Which was pretty unsettling.

22. What was your first reaction to finding out that you landed the job on Pretty Little Liars?

Originally I didn’t think that I got it. It took a really long time to review my casting tapes and normally it is a lot less time. When I got the part I was in a Barnes and Noble and I wanted to jump up and down but people may have thought I was crazy.

23. What other acting work have you done?

I was on Cold Case and did a lot of Community Theater. I did some professional plays. I’ve been working since I was about 11.

24. When you told your family we wanted to be an actor. What were their reactions? Were your parents supportive of your decision?

Initially there were some hesitations, since I was going to skip college and move to LA. They’re been beyond supportive. It wasn’t a total surprise, since I’d been doing theater for like forever.

25. If you could play anyone famous in a movie who would you want to play and why?

Tom Hanks is my idol, so I think I’d want to play him. I’ve been frequently told that remind them of him as a young person. I really look up to and respect him. He seems like a very well rounded person.

26. How what about acting in a famous movie remake? Which movie and what character would you like to play and why?

Back to the Future

27. What advice would you give to those that want to break into an acting career?

You don’t have any control over how your career is going to go and if you’re going to get a part. You can only prepare for the part by doing your homework like reading the script. Other than being prepared you can’t control how other people think. I think that’s a really important lesson because I think that it’s great to have a role model but it’s a really easy trap to try and model your career completely after someone else’s. It’s just setting up yourself for disappointment. Never give up. Don’t take praise or rejection too personally.

28. What does the future hold for Brendan Robinson?

I’m still working on Pretty Little Liars. We’ve been picked up for another 24 episodes. I’m waiting for what’s next in my career. I have also been writing a screenplay.

Follow Brendan Robinson on Twitter!

http://twitter.com/brendanrobinson

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BEYOND THE SKY AND I - Scarlet Grey singer Ben Grey

Want to know what it’s like to have a quarrel with the sky? Or how about what it’s like to have your song played on the same radio station you grew up listening to your favorite bands? Well just ask Ben Grey the lead singer and songwriter for one of L.A.’s rising stars. A band called Scarlet Grey whom I fell in love with while hanging out at the Roxy on Sunset Strip one night. I actually was there to see another band, but Scarlet Grey caught my attention as soon as they hit the stage.

I will say it was the lead singer’s charisma and shaggy old school British Mod hairstyle that made me stop and stare. But, once I began to listen to the band play, I really enjoyed listening to the songs, and I was really impressed by the way the band was able to get the crowd on their feet and come alive with every song. That’s hard to do. To win over the crowd. But, it seems like Scarlet Grey has a large loyal fan following who refer to themselves as "The Grey Family". If you want to be part of the Grey Family, I am sure Ben and the guys would love to adopt you. I hope you enjoy my interview with Ben, so you can find out more about his band and what he has in store beyond his smash hit "The Sky and I" which has recently been voted the#1 song on KROQ’s Locals Only playlist!

Princess Kisses xoxo
Tatiana Queenie4ever

Photo credit: Chad Sengstock

1. How would you describe your clothing style?

Hmm... I’m not sure. I find myself in a lot of British threads. I remember when Topman, Ben Sherman and Fred Perry were my little secret. I guess if we wanted to give it a name, we could call it Carnaby Casual.

2. Your song titles are very unique, what inspired you to write these songs?

Thank you! It’s funny, song titles are extremely important to me... It’s often that the song title come before the actual song. I’m fascinated with being able to encapsulate an entire sentiment into two or three words. I have pages and pages of potential song titles and their subsequent concepts, all without songs to house them. You never know when you’re going to be able to pair them with music you’re making, but it’s exciting every time. I had been looking to put "The Sky & I" to music for like a year before we started writing the song... So as soon as we started playing those initial chords, I knew that was going to be "The Sky & I." The inspiration is a different story, because the best kind of inspiration is the inexplicable... I try not to focus on the why I’m inspired and just focus on ‘how do I capture this?’


3. Where were you and what was your first reaction to hearing your song "The Sky & I" on KROQ?

There aren’t a lot of real, tangible milestones in the career of a musician... But hearing your song on the radio is really one of them. And the exciting thing is that it is really as surreal as you would hope it would be. Now it wasn’t a "That Thing You Do!" kinda moment, because we knew it was going to be on, but it had its own unique brand of impact... We were all so nervous for some reason. Sitting around the speakers at Pete’s house, worrying about how it was going to sound, what Kat Corbett was going to say, etc... It really was one of the most special moments of my life. It’s just amazing that something that you made with your best friends, is being played on the same station that first introduced you to some of your favorite bands. So cool.

4. Do you have a day job or is being a member of Scarlet Grey a fulltime gig?

It’s full time these days. I had worked a lot of strange jobs while we were first pushing Scarlet Grey... Some of which I’d prefer not to remember haha... but yes, as of right now I’m just working on Scarlet Grey.

Photo credit: Chad Sengstock

5. Describe the strangest or some of the strangest jobs you have had.

I was a DJ for Bar and Bat Mitzvahs in the San Fernando Valley. It’s a master’s course in people watching... It’s incredible to see how different people celebrate and to get these glimpses into people’s lives... The music I had to play wasn’t really great, but you couldn’t ask for better people watching.

6. What is your most memorable fan experience?

There have been a lot. I mean, every fan interaction is rewarding and amazing in its own way. Whether it’s somebody’s first time getting us or somebody’s 20th time coming to see us... or if I get an email about helping someone through a difficult time in their life... or if somebody tattoos words or wrote on themselves or if somebody’s child is singing our songs, etc... the experience is always unique and always gratifying. I mean, I think a big part of what we do is being there for people. It’s seriously a family. We don’t see our fans as numbers or people to market to... It’s a dodgy musical climate right now, and that sense of community is something that I think is really important and rare. I want music to be there for The Grey Family the way music was there for me when I was a teenager. Music is with us during the most intimate moments of our lives and I feel like I have a responsibility as someone making music for people I care about.

7. What inspired you to form the band Scarlet Grey?

The intentions were pure. The same way you get into anything... We wanted to have fun. It was just me wanting to play music with my best friends, for my other best friends... We didn’t have any expectations and certainly no aspirations of doing it professionally. And it still is that on a big level... But that deep commitment and responsibility I was talking about earlier, was definitely something that evolved. I wasn’t Ben Grey then, that’s for sure.

Photo credit: Chad Sengstock

8. Do you have any bands that influence your music?

Absolutely... But I warn you, it’s a hodgepodge... Everything from The Beatles to AFI to Squeeze to Minor Threat to ABBA to Bloc Party to Metric to Merle Haggard to Marina and The Diamonds to Joy Division to Buddy Guy... I mean, it’s really hard... I could list you a thousand bands for the thousand different stages in my life. I will say that above all, we are fans of the song. Moods and loyalties to genres are ephemeral, but in the end, all we care about is the song.

9. What venues do you play most frequently at?

The Troubadour in West Hollywood. It’s my absolute favorite.

Why is the Troubadour your favorite Venue (from a performance viewpoint as well as personal tastes.)

It’s become the closest thing to a home that a band in Los Angeles can have... Since we’ve played there so many times, the people there have a vested interest in how we sound and how well the show goes. You never get a sound guy who is just punching the clock and doesn’t care if you can’t hear yourself, etc. Great people, great sound, great stage... The shows are always amazing there.

Photo credit: Chad Sengstock

10. How has your music progressed since you first started out?

Absolutely... Thank goodness for that. At first, we were trying to be this kinda 9th or whatever wave it would be, punk band... Of course we didn’t know at the time that that wasn’t a thing, nor was it cool to try and make it a thing. We were just teenagers playing fast. Big fans of the reckless abandon, we were. If you get our first record "Forgot Me Was Me," you’ll catch a glimpse of the end of that whole thing haha. Not for everyone, let’s put it that way.

11. I found out that a movie was shot about your band. What was that like?

It’s kind of an epic tale haha... These two British filmmakers discovered our band while they were in London, emailed us pitching some ideas about filming us in the spirit of a black and white, late seventies music movie and we were completely into it. SG was right about to go into the studio to do our first full length record and we thought it would be a great time in our careers to have documented. So they flew out and filmed us for about 5 months. We thought it was going to turn out to be a puff piece but it ended up becoming this real movie, which is the last thing we were expecting. It’s really funny and it’s really painful... I mean it’s a real narrative. Looking back, the camera may have been the catalyst for a lot of deep seeded issues within the band, but it also really cleansed us... without it I don’t think we would’ve have ever been able to make something like "Fancy Blood".

However we did finish that full length album, but we still haven’t released it... It’s called "No Boys in the Ballroom." Maybe one day if the movie ever comes out we will... but there’s a lot of pain associated with that time for me. I’m still not over it. So when Keith and Cole joined the band we decided to make something new immediately. We rewrote a few of the songs from those sessions, added some brand new material and immediately jumped into the studio to make "Fancy Blood"on our own.
So in closing, I will say that the movie is great... I’m biased because I’m so close to it, but it really is something very cool and very special... I’m anxious for people to see us at our most vulnerable.

12. What is next for Scarlet Grey?

We are in demo-land. We have about 25 new songs finished, with no destiny yet... There is a rumor that we might go in and record a single to give away for free, just to hold everybody over... But we’re seriously just focusing on the new material. I’m in the studio right now... with no natural light. But I do have to admit, I’m so incredibly excited for people to hear it. I’ve never been so excited about anything we’ve done. It's a pretty typical answer, but that's just how it is :)

Check out Scarlet Grey's youtube video for "SKY & I":
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aI6a9hxW9Tg

Where can my fans find out more about Scarlet Grey?

http://www.facebook.com/scarletgreyrock
http://www.myspace.com/scarletgrey
http://www.twitter.com/benjamingrey
http://greyfamily.tumblr.com
http://www.thegreyfamily.proboards.com/

This is a personal message to Ben Grey from moi:

Dear Ben,

I had alot of fun hanging out with you after the Roxy show! Let's make a plan to go shopping around L.A., so we can play dress up. You can show me all the cool places you are finding your Carnaby Casual Clothing. You know I'm just mad about British Style! Thank you so much for taking the time from recording your new album to do this interview!

xo Tatiana Queenie4ever and Grey Family newbie!

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I Think I'm Turning Japanese- "The Kimono Project"

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Queenie4ever is proud to announce "The Kimono Project" Sustainable Earth Friendly Collection designed by Tatiana Mclane for EM Reconstruct. The project was inspired by my experiences as a student at Stanford University's 100% Sustainable Campus this past summer by an eco friendly fashion show hosted on campus. The decision to breathe life back into an old Kimono that traveled from a flea market in Japan to L.A. was easy. My passion for learning about Japanese culture brought me to Stanford to study Intensive Japanese Language. Living on a campus that promotes sustainabilty was a life changing experience. I wanted to do my part in Saving Our Planet. It seemed only fitting that as a fashion designer I could do my part by creating an earth friendly collection. My interest in Japanese traditional clothing led me to chose the Kimono as the piece to reconstruct. I am excited to debut "The Kimono Project" during L.A. Fashion Week. See the evite for details." I hope you enjoy watching footage from my runway show video!

XO Tatiana Mclane

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BOY CINDERELLA - Tears For Fears singer CURT SMITH

Yes, it’s true! A boy can live a Fairytale Life too! Just ask Curt Smith who’s angelic voice soars over the radio airwaves as ½ of the hit 80s British pop duo Tears For Fears. It wasn’t a Shoe like Cinderella but Songs that changed Curt’s life into that of a Fairytale, especially "Songs From The Big Chair" album which is filled with hit after chart topping hit that helped to define the sound of the 80s along with bands such as Spandau Ballet etc. Why do you ask is Curt a Boy Cinderella? It’s because his story is similar to the rags to riches story of Cinderella.

He was born in Bath, England grew up on Snow Hill which according to Curt is the equivalent of the projects or low income housing. Curt has proved you don’t need lots of money to be able to sing, but you do need talent. Luckily, Curt was born with an amazing singing voice. From a young age, he began performing with the church choir. Later, he started his first band with his childhood friend Roland Orzabal when they were both only 13 years old. The two would later go on to become the singing duo known as Tears For Fears touring the globe, making hit records, and becoming one of the most successful British bands aside from the Beatles in the history of rock music. The two friends took a hiatus from Tears For Fears but decided to regroup in 2004. That is when I first had the opportunity to meet Curt at his Tears For Fears CD release event at the now closed world famous Tower Records on Sunset Strip in L.A..

I was 9 years old at the time. My parents and I waited in line with the rest of fans for what seemed like hours on a school night! We were rushed through a line into the record store and given less than a minute to meet the band, say Hi, get an autographed CD, give Curt a gift bag containing Queenie4ever t shirts for his wife and 2 daughters, and get rushed out the back door by a giant scary looking security guy. Speed up time to 2010, I am now 17 and just found out that Curt actually took my t shirts home and his daughters Diva and Wilder actually wore them!

Queenie4ever fashion designer Tatiana Mclane age 9 (far left) and Curt Smith
(seated on right)Tower Sunset @ Tears For Fears CD Release 2004

Back to Curt’s Boy Cinderella Story. During the Tears For Fears hiatus, Curt Smith moves to America, starts writing and recording successful solo albums, falls in love with a marketing executive Princess named Frances who becomes his wife, becomes a dad to two L.A. Princesses Diva and Wilder, and records a song with a French artist named So called "Seven of Sundays" that I fall "Head over Heels" in love with and have to have for my Alice in Wonderland fashion video. I contact Curt via Twitter, and he says yes I may use his song as long as I give him proper credit which I do and since "everybody loves a happy ending" as much as I do, I am now happy to introduce Curt Smith’s happy ending to you! He’s a self proclaimed "Cinderello" and considers himself lucky to be so blessed from his life’s journey living in the projects of Snow Hill to life in the glamorous Hollywood Hills, he is continuing to experience great success in the music business.

I am so excited that he took time out from his busy schedule before Tears For Fears recent 2010 world tour to let us take a peek behind the scenes of his Hollywood Fairytale Life!

Listen to Curt Smith "Seven of Sundays" featured in Queenie4ever Alice in Wonderland fashion video shot on location Melissa Joan Hart candy store Sweet Harts listed under Sunday, February 21, 2010 blog entry. (click here to view)

Curt Smith Interview

Hi Curt! I have been listening to you sing since I was a baby. I had the pleasure of meeting you in 2004 at Tower Records on Sunset Blvd when I was 10 years old. Tower no longer exists, but at least your songs still live on thanks to radio and the internet. Several months ago, I was doing research for a song I could use in my Queenie4ever video. When I discovered "Seven of Sundays" on your Myspace.. After listening to its romantic lyrics and melody, I knew that it was a perfect match for my Alice in Wonderland theme fashion video. I envisioned "Alice" as being romantic yet youthful and innocent. The style of my video was to be reminiscent of a 1920s old silent film yet modern and magical using bright technicolors to give the impression that Alice had indeed stepped into Wonderland. I had already written the script and designed the costumes. And, now I had found the perfect song except Wait... I needed your permission... What if you said no? But, you said yes... so I thank you from the bottom of my Queen of Hearts!

What is the meaning behind the lyrics of "Seven Of Sundays"?

This was actually the one song I didn't write on "Halfway, pleased" - it was written by Charlton Pettus (my long time collaborator) and Chesney Hawkes an English singer. I believe for Chesney it was about his wife but for me it's about my children. The sentiment is basically that even if things aren't going right you can take a breath, look at your kids and realize how much you have. Sunday is (for most people) a holiday and day of rest, my children make everyday seem like Sunday (Seven Of Sundays)

How long did it take you to write it?

See above :)

What inspires you to write a song? Do you ever visualize places, peoples, or things when you are in the process of writing a song? If yes, what were you envisioning when you wrote the lyrics for "Seven of Sundays"?

Everything I experience is an inspiration and although I didn't write Seven Of Sundays I pictured my family whilst singing it.

Have you ever thought of your current life as being like a Fairytale? You grew up in Bath England in Snow Hill became one half of a famous hit band who toured all over the world then moved to America, began a solo career and now you live in L.A., you are a famous very successful solo singer/songwriter, you have a beautiful wife and 2 adorable daughters with amazing names Diva and Wilder, and you continue to create great music that your fans seem to really appreciate. It sounds like a Cinderella Story except you are a guy.

I am indeed a male Cinderella (would that be Cinderello?) - but seriously, I'm greatly appreciative of all I have and although sometimes it's not that easy (as I'm actually quite a private person) I wouldn't give it up for anything.

You are a positive role model for teens and young people because of how successful you have become. What advice would you give teens who dream of becoming a famous recording artist like yourself?

Primarily stay true to yourself. With fame comes many pressures - people around you need you to retain your success for them to make money, so sometimes it's hard to find someone who is objective. Rule no.1: money does not bring happiness.

At what age did you begin to think about becoming a professional singer?

I've always wanted to sing. I joined the choir when I was 4 and Roland and I's first band was when we were 13.

What artists did you listen to as a teen?

A mixture. When I was younger I loved English pop/rock bands like Slade and Sweet. Got into heavy rock music, Blue Oyster Cult, Rush. Dabbled with ska, The Specials, Madness. Then got into more creative artists like The Taking Heads and Peter Gabriel.

Who are your favorite artists and/or bands today?

Flaming Lips, Kings Of Convenience, The Feeling, St. Vincent to name a few.

If you could perform/record/write with a famous person who would that be and why?

Probably St. Vincent because I think she's so creative.

Thank you so much Curt for taking the time out of your busy schedule to do this interview. I know you are currently busy in the studio? Can you tell us what you are working on in the studio?

I am busy putting together a bunch of collaborations for a new project. My first track "All Is Love" is with the cellist Zoe Keating, and currently I'm doing a track with Melissa R. Kaplan aka Universal Hall Pass.

What’s the future hold for Curt Smith?

Keep working on music as long as I can and teach my children to the best of my capabilities.

I hear you and Tears For Fears are touring soon? When and where?

We're off to Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, The Philippines and Taiwan tomorrow (April 13th)

How can my blog followers and fans find your music to purchase?

All links are on my website - http://www.curtsmithofficial.com

I was really excited to hear that your daughter Diva and Wilder are fans of Queenie4ever and wear Queenie t shirts. That really means a lot to me. It just inspires me to design more cute stuff for girls like your daughters so that it makes them feel like a fairytale princess whenever they wear it and also by wearing my designs they are helping me to keep alive the Queenie4ever fashion fairytale. I dedicated my "Alice in Wonderland" Video to all my Fairytale Princess fans especially the enchanting Smith sisters Diva and Wilder for supporting my dream to be a successful fashion designer.

What are your hopes and dreams for your daughters Diva and Wilder?

That they grow up knowing that they are loved, are educated well and follow their dreams.

What makes Curt Smith Smile?

My family.

Good Luck on Tour and with all your New Projects! XO Tatiana Queenie4ever

Thank you!!

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POINTE AND SHOOT – Malibu Teen Photographer Ali Gilliams

 

Ali Gilliams standing on settee gets perfect overhead shot 

  

 of Tatiana Mclane as Queen of Hearts 

  

 result? Ali's favorite photo of Tatiana!

Whether lacing up her satin ballet pointe shoes or snapping photos of famous celebrities including her big sister actress Melissa Joan Hart for People Magazine, Malibu Teen Photographer Ali Gilliams life is all about knowing just how to Pointe and Shoot her camera to capture the moment. To watch her in action is to witness a true professional.

Only sixteen, she already wears an intense expression on her face while framing her photographic subject in her view finder and creating high end magazine ready portraits of a quality comparable to the masters such as America’s Next Top Model’s Nigel Barker or Vogue photographer Tim Walker. Even beyond the greatest fashion photographers, Ali has the ability to use her camera as a painter would use her canvas to create an actual work of art. Her photos can easily be hung in an art gallery alongside those of Picasso and Renoir without seeming out of place.

The vivid imagery, colors, and attention to detail definitely will capture the attention of any patron of the arts to bask in its beauty.  Growing up in a household of actresses, writers, TV and movie producers, it appears the entertainment bug runs in Ali’s family. Ali, a child actress and SAG member herself, is one of  "7" children of her amazingly talented mother Paula Hart casting director, executive producer, and part owner of Sweet Harts Sweets with Melissa Joan Hart and her father actor, writer, director Leslie Gilliams.


Ali I noticed you were a child actress and a member of SAG. Can you tell me what was your favorite thing about acting and what shows, commercials etc. were you on? Also, did watching your sister Melissa Joan Hart act on several successful TV series including Clarissa Explains It all and Sabrina The Teenage Witch inspire you to become an actress too?
 
I have only really done a few projects that my mom produced, including a few episodes of Sabrina and a part in a TV movie called "The Right Connections" that aired about ten years ago. I am extremely inspired by my mother and my sister to pursue my dreams and end up successful; they are two huge role models in my life and I look up to them every day. I liked acting, but I felt like it wasn’t really for me.

You are multitalented. It is amazing that you are an actress, ballerina, and a professional photographer at only age sixteen. How long have you been taking ballet lessons and what made you decide to start taking lessons?

I have been doing ballet since I was two years old, and to be honest my parents were the people involved with that decision. I used to really dislike it and was tempted many times to quit, but when I changed studios three years ago I have really grown to love it a lot.

You are also a very talented photographer. When did your passion for photography begin and do you plan on pursuing photography as a career when you grow up? If yes, then what do you plan on specializing in as I notice you love to take photos of rock bands, fashion, and celebrities. Who is your favorite famous photographer right now and why? How have they influenced your style?

My passion for photography started at a very young age, as I would take my parents digital and disposable cameras when we went on trips and take pictures of random things, and my parents always got mad at me for that. But, when Melissa let me use her Canon 20D when I was about eleven or twelve, I fell immediately in love. It was so professional and so serious, and I loved it. Of course, I had no idea how to properly use a camera when I was that age, but I have taken lessons and I feel very confident in my ability now.

Can you describe your photography style? How does someone looking at your photos know it’s an Ali Gilliams original? What would you say is your signature?

I think a big part of my style is back and natural lighting. It isn’t incorporated into all of my photos, but it is a big reason why I fell in love with photography when I learned how to properly use a camera; I love metering a camera and finding the perfect lighting. I recently learned how to use studio lighting, however, and I am in love with it. I still need to get my own lights though.

If you could photograph any famous person in the world right now who is that person, why do you want to photograph them and where would you want to take the photo?

I have never thought of this question before, but one band came immediately to my mind: Kings of Leon. I would kill to photograph them. They are all amazing musicians, incredibly attractive & would probably be amazing to work with. They are such an influential part of my life, and I am in love with every single one of their songs. I am such a fangirl for Kings of Leon it is ridiculous!

Describe what a typical day in the life of Malibu teen photographer Ali Gilliams is like?

Honestly, a typical day in my life is school, homework, ballet, photography and my friends; that’s all I really have time for in eleventh grade.

Do you do a lot of photo shoots in Malibu? If yes, where are some of your favorite spots in Malibu to take photos?

Yes! I have one more month until I get my license, so as soon as I get that I’m going to go other places, but Malibu is gorgeous for photography. It is all nature induced (my favorite place to photograph people is in nature with natural lighting); there are tons of empty fields, open roads, waterfalls, beaches, forests… it’s beautiful here. The sad thing is that I have actually never done a single beach photoshoot & I’ve lived here for three years now haha!

What do your friends think about you running your own photography business?

They love it! My friends are basically the only people I take pictures of when I’m not doing music photography, and based on every photographer I have ever learned from, it is the correct way to start out. I’m just doing my part & photographing as much as I possibly can, & my friends love it!

How about describing the most awesome photo op you ever had? Where was it taken and who was it of?

I think you mean photoshoot right? My favorite was with my little sister and her friend from last summer. We literally were doing nothing, so we went out into the street in our neighborhood and I brought my camera, and we just started taking pictures. Those are my favorite types of photoshoots, the really spontaneous, fun ones.

My favorite two from them are below:

 

 

I know you have had your photos published in major magazines like Billboard and People. Name some of those magazines describe how you got the gig and who was the photos of.

I’ve actually never had my work published in an actual magazine; I wish I had though haha! However, a picture I took of Melissa is on people.com: http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20282306,00.html

My sister asked me to take pictures of her when Sweet Hart’s was just opening for some press, so I did and one of them ended up on people.com! I was thrilled.

How did you get your internship with Dana Fineman Photography? Please tell us a little about Dana and what you do as her intern.

Dana is actually a local Malibu photographer, and I have been friends with her daughter for a while now. Dana basically brings me along on shoots to help her set up and hold reflectors, and I actually recently shot a wedding with her, it was a blast and an honor to work with her; she is amazing! Check out her stuff too: danafineman.com

You have photographed 2 fashion related events for Queenie4ever so far. I consider you to be one of my favorite photographers BTW! I was really excited when I found out about you through your sister Melissa. I invited her to be a special celebrity guest at my L.A. fashion week runway show, but she was busy rehearsing for Dancing with the Stars at CBS Studios. Instead you, your sister Sammy, and your mom Paula were able to attend. As you know, I met your sister Melissa at one of my favorite fashion designer’s Betsey Johnson’s 60th Birthday Party when I had just started Queenie4ever. I was 9 years old, but Melissa took me seriously when I told her I was a fashion designer. She became my first female celebrity supporter after that event by wearing my designs on the red carpet. She is probably the most down to earth and generous celebrity I have ever met. So you are really lucky to be her sister! And I am lucky she introduced us! Who are some of your favorite fashion designers? Describe your personal fashion style and what are some of your favorite pieces in your wardrobe that you wear all the time and why?

Aww, thank you! To be honest, I am not really too involved with the actual fashion world, but I would have to say my favorite designer is Coco Chanel. I love the classic look. I would describe my style as artistic, carefree, and natural with a little edge. I love shorts, skinny jeans, dresses, short skirts… Two things in my closet I cannot live without are tights and moccasins. I have three different styles of moccasins in my closet & I wear them all the time. An outfit you would probably catch me in is a pair of tights, shorts, Doc Martens or moccasins, a top and a cardigan. I am a very simple person, and I don’t try too hard when I get dressed in the morning.

Describe what it was like to be the youngest fashion photographer shooting my Queenie4ever L.A. Fashion Week Runway show? I was so excited to be the youngest fashion designer invited to present my collection that everything was a blur to me, so I m really glad you were there to capture it in photos for me to look back on and see what my models looked like wearing my designs on the runway. What is your favorite outfit and/or photo you took from my runway show and why?

To be honest, I was very intimidated at first, especially with all of the adult photographers around me shooting away; but I believe I stepped out and wasn’t going to let anyone get in my way!

My favorite outfit and photo I took are below:

I loved your Queenie4ever runway photos so much, I hired you to shoot my Queenie4ever Alice in Wonderland theme fashion shoot featuring some of the designs from my new Party Dress Collection. I know me and my muse Frankie Clarke and I took forever to get out of hair and makeup. I had to sit still for over 2 hours to have my hairstylist curl my hair into that regal Queen of Hearts up do. So thanks for being so patient and waiting for us at Sweet Harts. I know you were busy setting up the shoot with the furniture, props, and lighting etc. Can you describe how you came up with the vision for the Alice in Wonderland Shoot? What kind of camera did you use to shoot Alice in Wonderland?

I just connected an Alice in Wonderland Prom theme to a Mad Tea Party setting, so when I received the correct props I just made sure everything was where it was supposed to be. I just imagined chaos with class. The camera I use is a Canon Rebel XS; it isn’t the best camera out there, but I know how to use it and it gets the job done.

What is your favorite photo from the Alice in Wonderland shoot and why?

My favorite photo is:

Just because this was the first idea I came up with, and I loved the stretched poses with everyone in one shot.

What is the name of your photography business and how can people contact you for your photography services via the internet?

I go by “aligilliamsphotography.” To see my pictures you can either:
Check out my portfolio to see my best work: http://aligilliams.carbonmade.com/
Go to flickr to see all of my photos:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alihartphotography
Join the facebook group!!:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=332022251184&ref=ts
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Vimeo (I suggest checking my vimeo before my youtube):
http://vimeo.com/user2844389
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E-mail: aligilliamsphotography@gmail.com

What advice would you give a teen who wants to start their own photography business just like you have done by creating Ali Gilliams Photography?

Photography is not a joke; it is an art form. You cannot pick up a paintbrush & expect to know how to paint; it is the same situation with cameras. Contrary to very popular belief these days, there actually IS a proper way to use a camera (I know, SHOCKING!), and no matter how fancy your camera is, if you don’t know how to properly use it, you will not be considered a serious photographer. If you want to be serious, you must take a class and learn. I suggest learning how to shoot on film first, and learning how to develop your own film and print your own pictures; I have learned this way & I believe I am on the right path.

After you learn, just shoot shoot shoot, even if it’s little shoots with your friends, or dragging your camera around with you when you hang out with your friends or go on a walk! Build up your portfolio!!

I really am very pleased with the Alice In Wonderland photos! They really captured the vintage yet elegant youthful modern style I was going for. It is very Queenie4ever! I hope we can work together on future projects because you are an amazing photographer and I have lots more fashion shoot ideas I would love to have you capture! Thank you for helping me bring Queenie4ever’s Fashion Fairytale to life through your camera lens!

XO Tatiana Queenie4ever

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Queenie4ever Films Presents: Alice in Wonderland Prom 2010

Queenie4ever Films presents the Alice in Wonderland Prom & Formals 2010 Collection



Behind The Scenes Of The Making Of Queenie4ever Alice in Wonderland Video

" I'm late ... I'm late ... For a very important date. No time to say "Hello." Goodbye... I'm late, I'm late, I'm late. " - The White Rabbit

And were the cast and crew ever running late! But, with a little help from the White Rabbit's gold pocket watch they slowed down real time and ran on Wonderland time where the most curious things began to happen when they least expected it. Alice and the Queen of Hearts, spent the morning in hair and makeup at the palatial Spanish style Frankie b. hacienda hidden away in the hills overlooking the city of L.A.. Queenie4ever's personal hair and makeup stylist spent hours curling the Queen of Hearts brunette locks (over 2 hours) and Alice's golden locks into a regal magestic updo and youthful Victorian spiral curls respectively.

Once the heart and bow tiaras were placed upon each young ladies head it was off to wardrobe to don the enchanting fairytalesque party dresses designed by Tatiana Mclane for Queenie4ever's Prom and Formals Collection. The Queen of Hearts was sweet in the palest of pink satin and tulle whilest Alice shone like an angel in pure white satin and tulle. Since the invitation was for dancing and tea, the girls wore satin ballerina slippers hoping to be asked to waltz by one of the boys sporting Old Hollywood Glamour white dinner jackets and black bow ties. Racing down the bottom of the hill, in Queenie's Daddy's automobile, Alice and Queenie arrived in style to "Sweet Harts" actress Melissa Joan Hart's yummy desserty.Queenie4ever’s teen photographer Melissa's little sis' Ali Gilliams was ready to shoot armed with her camera along with the awaiting cast dressed the part to create the magic of a Mad Hatter's Tea Party.

Suddenly Darling’s Katelyn Rose a magical vision in white eyelet ruffles transformed into White Rabbit and then donned a vintage top hat to play Mad Hatter. Tea was served in fine old country roses tea cups rimmed with gold.
Alice and Queenie acting shy at first, sat in the corner like two delicate wallflowers but were soon brought out of their shells when the dapper Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum played by the Kelkar twins Kris and Averil asked them to dance to the lyrical tunes of Mad Hatter's silver french holed flute. The two pairs danced and laughed and twirled and giggled until they finally wore themselves out and decided to have a seat upon Sweet Hart's mile long apple green settee reserved only for VIP. "Goodness dear me! Things are getting Curiouser and Curiouser" Alice screamed in glee as she finds her self spinning around and around in a psychedelic kalediscope tunnel. Oh please hurry! Don’t be late! Alice has apparently fallen down an enchanted rabbit hole! Watch the video to see where she lands! Yes… Perhaps your guess is quite correct, and Alice has arrived for an Adventure in Wonderland…

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