Canada
Also known as "Ask Diana", I've refined my skills as a copywriter through my experience in working with luxury publications, artists, fashion & retail and interior design companies.
I'm in love with words and their ability to convey positive and compelling messages.
7 Little Burgundy Resto-Bars You Need To Drink & Eat At The Next Time You're In The Sud Ouest · January 28, 2015 Photo Cred - Montreal Eater 2705 Notre-Dame Street West Le Bon Vivant is one of the few places that manages to stay right on trend with the latest in gastronomy and interior design, while somehow managing the impossible task of creating a non-pretentious and downright, chill vibe.
Brunch has never looked so good. 8 Montreal Brunch Spots To Impress That Special Someone · February 7, 2015 Who doesn't love a greasy, cheap breakfast to cure those hangovers (that I swear are most epic in this city)?
8 Restaurants That Will Actually Make You Want To Go To Hochelaga-Maisonnueve · January 29, 2015 Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, or rather, "Ho-Ma", is making its mark on the Montreal culinary map. Surprising right? We know.There was a time that this district was solely known, as home of the (monstrous) Olympic Stadium.
Ask Diana
Photo Credit - Unsplash What if I told you, that you could manifest the love of your life? It's true. Well, almost. He or she may not be a reincarnation of that movie star you've been lusting after, but they can fulfill the type of love you've been looking for.
Photo Credit - We Heart It Lately, it seems I've been having the same (but different) conversation with many of the ladies in my life - should they put any effort into dating. Let me start by saying that I don't think everyone needs to be in a couple; everyone's path is meant to be different, and there's no one way to live.
"When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you." Lao Tzu If I do say so myself, I think that by now, the case has been made as to why gratitude is important for living your best life.
Photo Credit - We Heart It Gratitude cultivates gratitude and ignites the fire of giving. As you become more grateful towards yourself and your life, it becomes easier and more natural, to show gratitude towards others; and gratitude is hands down one of the best ways if not the best, to build (and improve) relationships.
"If the only prayer you say in your life is 'thank you,' that would suffice." - Meister Eckhart For a few years now, I have been experiencing a shift in my life and my luck (which in all honestly, has always been quite good).
Photo Credit - We Heart It We are all creatures of habit. The question is (and this is a question you should ask yourself often), how good or bad are these habits? Actually, let me put it differently: how positive or negative are your habits, and how close (or far) do they bring you towards your goals and the life that you want to live.
KA Magazine & CITYGUIDE by KA
We love a good success story from our belle ville, Montreal. And this is surely a good one. Ten years ago a Montreal native by the name of Corey Shapiro launched a company called, Vintage Frames. As the name implies, the team handpicks designer vintage eyewear and curates collections for fashion & optical boutiques worldwide, as well as for their own web store.
When it comes to impressive glass art,there is only one name that comes to mind : Dale Chihuly. His ambitious works have completely revolutionized the way we view this medium today; from a form of craft, to an esteemed fine art.
"Brethren", brings to mind thoughts of unity, strength and infinite endurance. This is much like the story of the Montreal luxury menswear brand, Brethren Co.; which was founded by three childhood friends, who sought out to elevate the absolute classic accessory, gloves - hand crafted in France and refined with the use of distinct jewellery.
KA Magazine loves a good story - and even more so, when the story encompasses the notions of "lifestyle", "luxury" and "eco-consciousness". Now add to it an idiom, such as " 5-free" and you definitely have our attention. This was the case of Trust Fund Beauty, a brand that was put under our radar just a short while ago.
Some things in life are simply too pleasurable not to indulge in every so often; coffee, chocolate and perhaps the two together - perfectly prepared at Patrice Patissier. One of Quebec's most renowned pastry chefs, Patrice Demers recently opened a modern space in the heart of little burgundy, for those who love the finer things in life.
CITYGUIDE is all about discovering the fascinating finds in our fab four cities; from fashion, design, food & hotels - to holistic living, culture and arts. The latest on our Montreal radar, is Galerie Samuel Lallouz and its upcoming exhibition with artist Leiko Ikemura.
Montreal is recognized for its culinary offerings, from French cuisine to the best in Singaporean street food. It has a special way of keeping us on our toes, in anticipation of satisfying our insatiable appetite for novelty - be it mimosas and brunch on a terrace, burritos from a truck or fresh oysters in the Old Port.
Interieurs Morphee is the kind of place that, as soon as you enter, you feel lighter and inspired. The spacious showroom gives an airy feeling, making you breathe deeper and take in the moment. The displays are crisp and modern and immediate you feel like you are at home...not to mention, you want whatever you are looking at, to be IN your home!
Miami has recently made its mark on the map of fashion and design; with proof of this being, the newly dubbed and created "Miami Design District" - bringing together the best in fashion, art, design architecture and dining. Luxury essentials, such as Cartier, Céline, Maison Martin Margiela and so very many more, are made accessible to Miami's finest.
LUXURY RETREATS : The perfect getaway for your body, mind & spirit.. There are times it seems the only way to get that needed relief is by "disconnecting"; ie taking a long, peaceful & necessary vacation. But sometimes, even the planning of this much needed vacation simply poses too much stress.
It seems lately, that every time we hear of a new over-the-top luxury hotel, residence, restaurant or spa, it is undoubtedly in Miami; which also means that what follows are the world's best realtors, designers, artists, architects and the list goes on. Most recently, on our Miami radar is one the 1 Hotel & Homes, in South Beach.
When we come across a rare find and one from our very own city, we stop in our tracks to notice. Case in point, Mr. Major; also known as, Noan Major. To be a professional artist and not only survive, but live abundantly through your craft, is no easy feat.
When a place can make you smile, by its name alone - you know they're onto something. But when the ambiance and experience top all your expectations, well that's definitely something to brag about. Case in point : BORIS BISTRO in Old Montreal.
Miami has a longstanding reputation for its beautiful people, beaches and of course, extravagant nightlife. Only recently, has it begun to position itself on the map of high-end design and architecture, with developments such as the Design District; peeking the curiosity and interest of an elite group of creatives- and certainly placing itself in CITYGUIDE's spotlight.
Close your eyes.. and imagine a place with all white walls, gorgeous wood accents, sunlight shining through large windows..now add to this, the dizzying scent of ginger, espresso and lavender. The ambiance is cozy yet so bright and clean; the people are happy, eager for what they are about to experience, while others say farewell with utter satisfaction.
Montreal is unequivocally a very special place during the summer time; the endless festivals, concerts, events and beautiful people, guarantees its spot on numerous lists of the world's best cities. We just recently came off one of Montreal's wilder weekends, also known as "Canadian Grand Prix" - 2014.
The Saint-Henri neighbourhood is a very special place for many reasons. Besides the cultural diversity & holistic vibe, it is also home to the first KA Magazine Montreal Headquarters. And, with a natural enchantment to this area, our latest fascination is with a place that has victoriously combined fine food with remarkable architecture, embodied in a restaurant called H4C.
If a woman were to stop right now, and imagine her perfect gift: a charmed bracelet, customized to reflect all of her favorite things and most precious moments, she would certainly have only one thought: PANDORA.
Every Montrealer knows that this city is FILLED with many, many restaurants - but every once in a while, a new concept comes around that blows our minds, and all our expectations. As in the case, with Ms Kimberly Lallouz's newest addition to her restaurant repertoire - BAR MONSIEUR.
For those who are fortunate to know of one of Old Montreal's most special shopping destinations, DELANO DESIGN; you are likely, also lucky enough to know its Creative Director, Ms Elise Gabbay.
The world is a changing place. New emerging cities and accessibility are quite frankly, causing a paradigm shift in migration and travel; opening up the possibilities to see different places, and the possibility of replacing the old with the new.
JAMES PERSE: Low Maintenance & High Fashion When you enter the James Perse boutique on Sherbrooke W, you are immediately drawn in by the minimal, yet warm décor. The garments are carefully laid out, allowing the shopper to see all the pieces available, for men & women alike.
Today, KA Magazine City_Guide had the pleasure of visiting Aquaovo store and offices on Saint Laurent Blvd. ( Montreal). This is one of those rare companies that's conception had only to do with good intentions; which inevitably leads to organic and outstanding success.
In a city where the culinary standards are undoubtedly high, there are distinct neighbourhoods, where one is guaranteed, to find the best eats : Old Montreal, Griffintown, Plateau and the ever trendy & upscale, Laurier Street; home of Ryu.
There are places that pulls us in by its mere presence - and more often than not, we are thrilled it did. This was definitely the case upon discovering CODE AMBIANCE; somewhere between Little Burgundy, Griffintown and culinary heaven. The restaurant boasts fine contemporary French cuisine, inspired by the passionate owner and chef, Mr. Bastien Gerard.
A good interior designer needs a certain skill set and a great eye for detail; but when it comes to great designers...the real ingredient to their success cannot be found it any classroom. It is love and Divine inspiration. And so is the case of two Montreal designers, who have formed the firm SURFACE3.
Last Wednesday, November 6 th, Montreal's own WHITE LABEL by Evelyne Fay presented us her anticipated SS2014 collection. Made for the modern, elegant and sensual woman, the collection boasts enticing and flirtatious contrasts : black vs white, shiny vs matte, opaque vs transparent.
Every female fashion lover, dreams of finding that special shopping destination in her city - a place where style, design, and inspiration come together in a seamless blend; whisking her away to all her fashion fantasies. With inspiration from the early 1900's, Paris and Chanel, LA PETITE GARCONNE brings to our female friends all that and more.
Forget your traditional spinach leaves and bland dressing. We often hear that a city is defined by its restaurants; well, Montreal is no shrinking violet in the restaurant choices category. With so many restaurants and choices, you can only imagine the delight, when a new concept is introduced - making healthy eating fun and most importantly...tasty!
CITYGUIDE is blessed to visit and meet many amazing businesses and people. One special gem we wish to note in Montreal is : CELADON COLLECTION. In the heart of the bustling district of Griffintown and powered by two strong forces, Mr. Roy Caro and Mr Scott Yetman - they are successful in creating a refined balance between traditional and contemporary designs and textures.
Recently, CITYGUIDE made the trip to Outremont in great anticipation for a taste of the Czech Republic. Yes, you read right - the Czech Republic. Suitably named Café Prague, we couldn't be happier to have discovered this little piece of Europe, right here in Montreal.
In this day and age, we are all quite familiar with yoga as a way of life and a form of physical and mental exercise. However, pilates is becoming increasingly more popular and with all the rights to be. We had the pleasure of a private pilates session at a quaint, beautiful studio in Little Burgundy: STUDIO ENDORPHINE.
Some call it a trend.. We prefer to call it a movement; the movement of the mind reaching greater heights, and seeing beyond what is placed in front of us, to distract from reality. Looking at the space between the objects and seeing truth vs lies, good vs evil.
KA CITYGUIDE had the pleasure of joining in the festivities yesterday, with Interieurs Morphee and Saohouse, Thursday September 26 th. The evening marked several celebrations; the one-year anniversary of Interieurs Morphee's St Laurent showroom location, the one-year anniversary of design company, Saohouse AND the launch of their powerful new collaboration.
La Champagnerie is a charming, special place; in the most beautiful of locations, on the cobble stone roads of St Paul (Old Montreal). Everything is what you would hope it to be; the dapper men that run the establishment, the cool vintage vibe, eclectic tunes and cold, delicious bubbly.
KA Magazine's City Guide; discovered Anthony Sax one sunny afternoon, upon noticing a bright, light space, with nothing less than the most colourful and unique selection of shoes - we were no-longer sure if we were on the streets of MTL. or had been magically whisked off to Milan!
La Maison Carole Franck Paris, is one of those true beauty sanctuaries, where the scents, sounds, products and people 'hum' together in perfect synergy. Founded in Paris, by Mme Carole Franck herself, she sought to create luxury cosmetics, beauty products and treatments based on aromatherapy, phytotherapy and botanicals; and she more than succeeded on her mission.
It's been three years and counting, since the KA Headquarters moved from the "Old" Port of Montreal - to the other side of the tracks; better known as the "Sud-Ouest". Comprising of three prominent & distinct neighbourhoods: St Henri, Little Burgundy and Griffintown, and bordered by the Lachine Canal this is most definitely, a special side of Montreal.
Knowing that love is in the details, it couldn't be just any sky blue. She needed & wanted - THAT Sky Blue... Eco-Friendly, Green & Environmentally conscious : words that we love. While some may view these as gimmicks or trends, we see them as a MOVEMENT.
For the love of GREEN ~ Vertuose Vegetal Design is a plant lover's dream. We are all familiar with florists and the work they do; but what is vegetal design ? It is the modern term for interior landscaping.
Corno Studio
Corno positively has the best followers, fans and art aficionados. And when they visit her gallery in beautiful Old Montreal, it is without fail, love at first sight. A perfect example of this was last Sunday at her one and only AKA Gallery; when a visitor from Switzerland paid us a visit and decided to buy an original drawing - with only minutes to spare before catching his flight!
Il est très agréable de visiter la Galerie AKA par un beau dimanche de printemps comme aujourd'hui. Toutes les galeries de la rue Saint Paul ouvrent leurs portes à des centaines d'admirateurs d'art qui viennent de partout... En entrant à la Galerie AKA, on se retrouve dans l'univers de Corno.
Si vous avez déjà eu la chance de rencontrer Corno, vous savez certainement que c'est une artiste qui possède une grande énergie. Cette force créatrice, nous pouvons la ressentir dès que nous entrons dans son studio à Manhattan, au coeur de SoHo.
L'art rend notre vie plus belle car c'est une source d' inspiration et de bonheur. Quand on a la chance d'avoir chez soi des oeuvres d'art qui nous touchent et qui nous éblouissent, on a toujours hâte de rentrer â la maison. ------------------------------------ Art is a beautiful thing.
Corno est une artiste reconnue internationalement pour ses grandes toiles aux couleurs flamboyantes, mais elle crée aussi des dessins extraordinaires, utilisant l'acryliques sur papier. On reconnait tout de suite son coup de pinceau et son style passionné. Voici quelques images de ses oeuvres récentes: des visages d'hommes aux regards touchants , et des nus , comme seulement Corno peut dessiner.
The big apple..the city that never sleeps..concrete jungle..also known as, NEW YORK CITY. Corno has been blessed with a successful career as a professional pain