Kanon Organic Vodka: Posts tagged FOK

When we want to dance, British DJ Chelsea Leyland is the first person we think of. Not only does she...

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May 8, 2012
Meet Our Latest FOK: DJ Chelsea Leyland
Chelsea Leyland
When we want to dance, British DJ Chelsea Leyland is the first person we think of. Not only does she have the best hair at any Kanon party, she's super cool and has the (super)power of being able to make everyone--yes, we mean everyone--dance. So since we're so into sharing, we thought we'd pass along a few of Chelsea's favorite things. And by things we mean cocktails and songs, obviously. Read on and find out what one of our favorite UK imports has been up to...

Kanon Vodka: You're known for having some great locks -- any color you're dying to try next?

Chelsea Leyland: I really want to try going black but im scared..

KV: You play a lot of songs to get people in the party mood -- what's the one song that will get you on the dancefloor?

CL: Show Me Love - Robin S

KV: Favorite Kanon cocktail?

CL: Spicy Watermelon.

KV: The last night that made you say "I love New York?"

CL: Robot Heart Halloween.

KV: What's your signature drink?

CL: Kanon of course... well, or a beer.

KV: First record you ever purchased?

CL: I believe it was RUN DMC.

KV: What's the best party you've played so far this year?

CL: The BBC event I DJ'd. It was bananas--fire eaters, all the actors from "Sleep No More," it was insane!!

KV: Any artists we should put on our summer playlist?

CL: SBTRKT

KV: Is there anyone you're dying to collaborate with?

CL: Musically ummm yes a million people, this a tough one. For now, lets just say I wouldn't mind working with Questlove from the Roots. I think he's a musical genius.

KV: What are the biggest differences between the nightlife in London and NYC?

CL: London is raw, NY is polished. This depends on the scene but in terms of the scene I work, I think that London has far more edge to it. People in NY are much safer in terms of their style, behaviour, and ear for music.

KV: Where do you like to hang out when you're in NYC?

CL: For cocktails, I like Hotel Delmano in Williamsburg and Maison Premiere for drinks and oysters. For dancing, I like to go to raves like Resolute, Robot Heart and Blk Market--the location changes, sometimes they're in basements of schools or on a boat. To take a tourist for a drink Boom Boom Room, you can't beat that view. I also like 141 Chrystie where I DJ--it's the new Red Egg. That's a good spot for dancing.

FÖK: Chelsea Leyland
A favorite of the downtown music scene, the British native is known for her edgy style and her ability to make anyone (yes, anyone) dance. Looking for a song that's guaranteed to get people moving? Chelsea's got your beat.
April 4, 2012
FOK Talk: Lesley Arfin Discusses the Upcoming HBO Series "Girls"

Since Sex and the City stopped airing, it seems that HBO hasn't quite found their equivalent...until now. And while the group of girls in the new drama called, well, Girls are quite different than the label loving, perpetually brunching ladies of SATC, we're sensing a relatability that will win over a similar demographic. Plus, the Judd Apatow produced show is guaranteed to produce plenty of laughs, albeit with a different type of humor than shoe-obsessed Carrie Bradshaw or uber dry Miranda Hobbes. In anticipation of the show, we hooked up with an old FOK of ours, Lesley Arfin, who also happens to be the Story Editor for Girls, to get the inside scoop on the upcoming series. Read on to get Lesley's take on HBO's new foursome, and don't forget to tune in on April 15th at 10:30 PM.

Kanon Vodka: We're super excited for the premiere of Girls--why will we love it?

Lesley Arfin: I think most people--girls and guys--will be able to relate to it. It's a very honest, relatable show.

KV: The show is based in NYC--your old stomping grounds. What are the top 3 places you miss most in Manhattan?

LA: You're making me homesick! I miss little things like bumping into people on the street, picking a friend up in a cab, sitting at a restaurant for hours and hours. I miss Mogador, Shake Shack, and my favorite pizza place on Metroplitan Ave. Weirdly I also miss Topshop even though I never really get anything there. Walking into Topshop is always a very promising feeling.

KV: Girls is about 20-somethings growing up and getting by in the city--how much of it is autobiographical?

LA: I don't think any of it is. Of course, there are some stories and situations that are "autobiographical," but the characters we've written are very different than who I was at that age. They're less concerned with being cool. It is a show of fiction ultimately and while I can identify with what the characters do and say, I don't think any of it is autobiographical--at least not for me. Lena Dunham, the show's creator, probably has more parallels but again, her characters, especially the one she plays, is VERY different than who she is in real life.

CONTINUE READING FOK TALK: LESLEY ARFIN DISCUSSES THE UPCOMING HBO SERIES "GIRLS".
FÖK: Lesley Arfin
Since 2001, Lesley Arfin has made a name for herself writing her own column “Dear Diary,” as the former Editor-in-Chief of Missbehave magazine and, perhaps most importantly, as an avid needle-pointer based out of New York City.
January 6, 2012
Kanon FOK Resolutions for 2012

There's something about starting off a new year with goals. We've got some pretty awesome plans for 2012, but we're always looking for a little inspiration. We've asked a few of our fave FOKs to give us the DL on their resolutions for 2012. Our personal fave: not making out in public. Check them out and enter 2012 the right way (cocktail in hand).

Kelly Framel of The Glamourai (above)

"In 2012 I resolve to say 'no' to fringed suede, lug-soled boots, and sunglasses bigger than the palm of my hand. I will say 'yes' to fine jewelry, beautiful shoes, and pretty party dresses!"

Amanda Del Duca of Capture Fashion

"In 2012, I want to read non-fashion news, take more photos and start mentally preparing to quit smoking."

Jace Lipstein of Grungy Gentleman

“1. To wear less bracelets.
2. To teach some NFL coaches (that will remain nameless) how to dress.
3. To bring a Super Soaker to a promoted dinner and start nailing people.”

CONTINUE READING KANON FOK RESOLUTIONS FOR 2012.
December 23, 2011
Last Night's Party's Fashion Therapy

Looking back on the year of endless parties, fuzzy memories, and tons of delicious cocktails, it's hard to pinpoint some of our favorite moments.

Luckily for us, we have some talented FOKs in our midst that take care of capturing the nights for a living. Sweet job, right? Case in point – this video by our friend Bronques of Last Night's Party gives his take on New York Fashion Week. From drinking Kanon with Tyler The Creator at Alexander Wang's epic after-party to taking in show after fashion show (think Jeremy Scott and Charlotte Ronson) and cocktail after cocktail, Bronques was there to make sure we could relive every last awesome moment. He even made sure we were plugged into the Iceland Fashion Festival.

As the video says, "anywhere there's models, there's Jared Leto" – and anytime there's awesome cocktails, there's Kanon.
FÖK: Merlin Bronques

Bronques is the founder of Last Night’s Party, a site that answers the question, “where were you last night?”. Chances are, if you’ve been to a club downtown anytime over the last six years, it’s more than... more
November 17, 2011
Meet Our Latest FOK: Opening Ceremony's Kate Foley
When we get the desire to shop, nothing comes to mind quicker than Opening Ceremony. But our love of this go-to spot has a lot to do with one of the people behind the store's unique selection. Meet Kate Foley, our latest Kanon FOK and buyer extraordinaire for the OC brand. As part of our initiation for all new FOKs, we put Kate to the test to see how well she could answer our pressing questions. Read on to find out what Kate’s top three party essentials are, what she'd be doing if she wasn’t a buyer (her answer had us pleasantly surprised) and much more.

First off, how did you get your current gig with Opening Ceremony?

I actually worked in styling / editorial prior to joining the team at Opening Ceremony. I wanted to work somewhere I personally found exciting and inspiring and applied to OC. I guess the rest is history.

Biggest pro and con about your job?

Biggest pro: working with an incredible, exciting group of individuals as a team to create something amazing.
Biggest con: working all the time.

If you weren’t a buyer, what would you be doing?

Gardening

Who are your personal style icons?

Anyone and everyone who has courage to do and wear what they want, when they want, and how they want to.

CONTINUE READING MEET OUR LATEST FOK: OPENING CEREMONY'S KATE FOLEY.
FÖK: Kate Foley
Buyer at Opening Ceremony might be Kate Foley's most well-known title, but that's not all the petite Brit is made of – she's a committed gardener, an impeccable dresser, a girl about town, and of course, a friend of Kanon.... more
October 28, 2011
How Friends of Kanon Get Into the Halloween Spirit

This weekend is full of Halloween activites for us, from Los Angeles’ Tim Burton party at the LACMA to celebrating with LoveCat magazine in New York. We can’t think of anything better than a weekend full of costumes, cocktails, and copious amounts of spooky fun. We know we’re not alone when it comes to a good time, so we asked a few of our favorite FOKs to give us the scoop on their Halloween plans...and the memories from the holiday that still haunt them to this day. From amazing costumes past and present to childhood traditions, read on to see what gets them in the spirit.

Krystal Simpson (See above)

1. Which places in LA throw the best Halloween parties?

Anywhere in West Hollywood, but I feel like that applies to all fun holiday celebration situations. But no matter where you are geographically, Halloween is always best spent in costume with good friends and strong drinks.

2. What do you plan on dressing up as this year?

Freddie Mercury, circa 1986. I feel like I've been waiting a lifetime to dress up as Freddie! I've been holding out for the right yellow jacket.

3. Do you have any embarrassing Halloween costumes from the past?

If your costume is not embarrassing, then it's no good! I think my favorite one from the past is between Keith Richards and Michael Jackson; it's really fun to dress up as a boy.

CONTINUE READING HOW FRIENDS OF KANON GET INTO THE HALLOWEEN SPIRIT.
August 24, 2011
The Best Cali Hotspots: FOK Edition
Los Angeles and the areas surrounding it are quite widespread, so we often ask for recommendations to ensure we have the most fun possible without driving around aimlessly on the 405. Who better to ask about Los Angeles hotspots and favorites than our very own FOKs who live there? Stylish, witty, and in-the-know? Those would be our FOKs, for sure. From hidden beaches, to vegetarian-friendly restaurants and the best views, our FOKs have got you covered the next time you want to explore the Southern Cal area. Check out the recommendations below – no need to thank us later. Enjoy!

Krystal Simpson (see above):

Kanon: What's your favorite beach in California?

Krystal: My favorite beaches are up North in Santa Cruz, CA. It's a slower pace there, and a million less people. I try to only stay in LA when I work, the rest of the time I like to hide out elsewhere.

Kanon: For someone visiting LA for the first time, what restaurant must they absolutely try?

Krystal: Veggie Grill! I'm obsessed; we go at least three times a week!

Kanon: Do you have a go-to watering hole?

Krystal: I love Cha Cha's in Silverlake – they have a photo booth, and always have the best food trucks parked outside. Ten pound burrito at last call, yes please.

CONTINUE READING THE BEST CALI HOTSPOTS: FOK EDITION.
August 4, 2011
Salvatore Scappini and Balzac Projects Hang with the Beautiful People
If you've ever wondered what would happen if you put Kanon Vodka in a room with a bunch of beautiful Swedes, and one rad T-shirt brand, well then this is your lucky day. What–you've never wondered that before? Well, regardless– this is one combination we're in the mood to reminisce about. Not too long ago, we celebrated Swedish t-shirt co Balzac Projects (get your mind out of the gutter), with our Swedish FOK Salvatore Scappini–Stockholm-based photographer, blogger, and manager of a few of Sweden's hot party spots–at a small, private event. But what makes Balzac Projects so cool? Each season, this creative brand prints a one-of-a-kind address onto a t-shirt to capture a unique spot on the global scene and anyone who has ever been there. Think secret societies circa 5th grade, but for stylish adults who know how to throw a party.

Together, Scappini and and the Balzac Projects (and us, of course) celebrated all the good things in life in the confines of one room. But since it was all the way in Sweden, you'll most likely be experiencing the fun for the first time through Scappini's party shots above. Check 'em out, FOKs.
FÖK: Salvatore Scappini
Salvatore Scappini is a Stockholm-based photo blogger and manager of some of Sweden's coolest spots like The Spy Bar and Kåken. If you're looking for a good time, this is the guy to show you how it's done.
July 29, 2011
FOK Recipe: Rachel Nguyen DIYs a Kanon Summer Cocktail
Muddle
One thing we love about our latest FOK, Rachel Nguyen, is that she's just as apt to post photos on her blog, That's Chic, of her latest adventures with brunch pizza as she is to upload her latest outfit. Because why shouldn't food and fashion go hand in hand? We challenged Rachel to whip up a refreshing summer cocktail recipe using our organic vodka, and it just so happened that she had the perfect event in mind for serving it. Check out what Rachel had to say about her DIY recipe below, and try making it for friends this weekend!

Here's Rachel's take:

Last weekend was my boyfriend’s birthday, and I was responsible for drinks that didn’t have to do with beer pong. His birthday always comes at the perfect peak of mid-summer, and Kanon Vodka challenged me to come up with a refresher to enjoy on warm nights and with good company. I’m a Mojito person, so this is my twist on the summer drink. It doesn't have a name yet, so feel free to throw some ideas out there. Enjoy!

CONTINUE READING FOK RECIPE: RACHEL NGUYEN DIYS A KANON SUMMER COCKTAIL.
FÖK: Rachel Nguyen
Rachel Nguyen is the ever-stylish girl behind “That’s Chic” – a Los Angeles based blog that mixes in delicious eats and home décor inspiration with her always on target stylish musings.
July 15, 2011
Toasting to Bobbi Brown's Holiday Collection!
Teen Vogue's Eva Chen and Bobbi Brown
Last night was a marathon of events. After a good stretch, we were off into the night. Our first stop for the night? Helping toast makeup guru Bobbi Brown and the launch of her new holiday collection. As if we didn’t feel summer was rushing past us already, we’re already celebrating the fall months. But a party is a party and if vodka is involved, we’re more than okay with it.

We stepped into the uber-swanky Rose Bar to find a crowd of beauty editors pouring over Bobbi’s new collection. We also took a look at it, and trust us- it’s awesome. It’ll be making a lot of ladies very happy in a few months.

Someone once told us that the best thing in the world is to complete something from start to finish and see it through. Well, we love to make cocktails and clearly, love to see them from start to finish, so we had our own cocktail station at the party to get the crowd involved. We gave mini cocktail lessons (courtesy of bartender Jan Warren) involving a silver collins drink with fresh cucumber- it may have been a fall event, but this drink was all summer. With FOK Chrissie Miller as the DJ playing tune after tune we love (seriously, how does she know?) and Kanon Ruby and Kanon Krush drinks on the menu, we were psyched to spend the evening toasting Bobbi. Check out our pictures from the night here, and make sure you check out Bobbi’s holiday collection when it hits stores in the fall.
July 13, 2011
Face Hunter Takes Montauk

When you've had too much fun partying (if there is such a thing) on any given night, and things start to get a bit fuzzy, it’s always helpful to have great photog friends around who you can count on to document things–for better or worse. And like we’ve always said, our FOKs are a talented bunch. Enter Yvan Rodic, perhaps better known as Face Hunter, whose blog of seriously gorgeous people and good times realized is on our docket of daily reads.

Yvan may be a European transplant, but you wouldn’t know that from the crazy amount of American flags he surrounded himself with on 4th of July weekend in Montauk when he documented our unforgettable weekend for “The Face Hunter Show.” Between visits with friends like Ben Pundole and Ben Watts before their Shark Attack Soundz party at Rick’s Crabby Cowboy Café (where the best looking crowd we’ve ever seen danced for hours, Kanon in hand) and hanging with Scott Lipps at his home in "HamptonBridge" (as Yvan calls it) to our sundown party at Ruschmeyer’s, Yvan’s Montauk tour already has us planning our next trip. Check out his video here–but be warned. It’ll make you start strategizing excuses to ditch work in favor of flagging down the next Jitney outta town.
FÖK: Yvan Rodic

Yvan Rodic is a man about town and one hell of a photographer, though you may know him best by his artist alter-ego moniker, Facehunter.
July 1, 2011
Happy 4th of July: FOK Edition

Krystal Simpson

With Fourth of July just around the corner, we’re officially in vacation mode (sorry Friday afternoon work, it’s just not going to happen). We’re kindly reminded of what America stands for this weekend–life, liberty, and the pursuit of a fantastic cocktail. But we’re Swedish, so what do we know?

Since it’s the perfect opportunity to get away, we’re doing just that and heading out East. We’ll be sipping on cocktails in Montauk all weekend with some very important FOKs. (And FYI-you should come hang out with us at Shark Attack Soundz Saturday night!) One of our favorite parts about the ultimate summer holiday weekend is finding out what our FOKs are up to–because if it’s something fun, we’re totally inviting ourselves.

Take a peek at what some of our beloved Friends of Kanon have planned in celebration of the country’s independence. And make sure to enjoy the weather and cocktails. Happy Fourth!

Krystal Simpson of What Is Reality Anyway
"My best friends and I rented a beach house for a 4th of July long-weekend mini-vacation, and we're going to relax with our feet in the sand, barbeque, and watch the fireworks over the bay."

Bryanboy
"I'm spending July 4th in India with my beloved boyfriend. It's our first year anniversary and thought we'd go somewhere mystic and exotic. I love going to a place different than my usual environment to be inspired."

Alexander Klein
"I wish I had tales of sexual exoticism, but in truth my summer holidays revolve around reading books, swimming, and drinking an evil beverage or two."

Leandra Medine of The Man Repeller
"I plan to spend the holiday on the beach in Southampton wearing stars and stripes. Lots of stars and stripes."

Peter Miszuk
"So on July 2nd, I am DJing a party for anyone stuck in the city still on Saturday at Madame Wong's. Then Sunday I am driving to MTK to camp in a friend's backyard–as I have been wanting to go camping forever, and this is sort of like camping-lite. Then I will spend my 4th at SL East."

Laura Taylor
"I'll be spending a rather unpatriotic July 4th in London. But I'll be singing our National Anthem over my plate of fish 'n' chips, I swear!"

Erica Chan Coffman and Lauren Kolodny of Honestly WTF
Erica: "I'm off to my family's ranch for the weekend, where I'll be jumping off rocks into the clear waters of the Yuba River, swimming, and soaking up the sun!"

Lauren: "You'll find me right outside my front door at the beach and teaching my bulldog how to skateboard!"
June 3, 2011
SHFT.com Celebrates Two Webbys!
Krystal Simpson and Adrian Grenier
You’d think we were racking up major airline points this week with all the events we have going on both coasts. Yes, we are EVERYWHERE. Magical, right? We had such a great time with Krystal Simpson at Lykke Li's concert earlier in the week that she came along with us to celebrate our favorite new website, SHFT.com's, Webby Award wins last night. A house in the Hollywood hills, a pool overlooking the view (KANONballs anyone?), a strong cocktail in hand, and wing-woman Krystal by our side– what more could a vodka ask for? Krystal shares her night hitting the Hollywood scene with us. California love, indeed. Here's what she had to say:

CONTINUE READING SHFT.COM CELEBRATES TWO WEBBYS!.
FÖK: Krystal Simpson
Krystal Simpson is a writer, DJ, and bi-coastal fashion plate whose website, What Is Reality Anyway?, is a must-read. You may recognize her from MTV’s series I'm From Rolling Stone, or her appearances in Elle, Nylon, Purple Diary,... more
June 1, 2011
Krystal Simpson and Lykke Li Rock On
Krystal Simpson and Lykke Li
While we love frequenting the West Coast, it’s not often we get to head out there, so when we do, we make sure it’s for a really good reason (see: Coachella). What brought us out here this week is none other than our favorite Swedish singer and FOK Lykke Li (told you it was a good reason). When we heard she was performing at the Wiltern Theater, we jumped at the chance to celebrate another fantastic show with her, and maybe even see if we could turn her last music video into a reality (see: shots of Kanon). We turned to one of our favorite bloggers, Krystal Simpson of What is Reality Anyway to give us a different perspective on the show from what we saw in New York. Known for her killer Penny Lane style, we knew she’d give us an appropriately rock ‘n' roll take on the night.

Here’s what Krystal had to say about her night with Lykke and Kanon as the Swedes took over LA:

Last night's sold out Lykke Li concert at The Witern in LA was packed with fans dancing on their tiptoes to see their favorite Swedish singer. They waited patiently through the opener Grimes, a one-woman act who only needed a synthesizer and her microphone to wow the crowd. When Grimes left the stage, the energy went into high gear, and a patient silence fell over the crowd. After a nearly five-minute long intro of smoke and strobes highlighting the long black sheets of fabric pillars that hung around the stage, the band started to appear from behind the cloud to unbridled screams. Lykke Li glided onto the stage in an all-black ensemble, very much the eye of the tornado, and opened with "Jerome" from her new album Wounded Rhymes. She followed with "I'm Good, I'm Gone" off her first album that had everyone in the theater dancing in unison.

CONTINUE READING KRYSTAL SIMPSON AND LYKKE LI ROCK ON.
FÖK: Krystal Simpson
Krystal Simpson is a writer, DJ, and bi-coastal fashion plate whose website, What Is Reality Anyway?, is a must-read. You may recognize her from MTV’s series I'm From Rolling Stone, or her appearances in Elle, Nylon, Purple Diary,... more
May 25, 2011
Pamela Love Joins Our First Ever #FOKchat
In case you missed it, we’re having a lovely week, or rather should we say- a LOVE-ly week courtesy of FOK Pamela Love. Between sitting down with her to talk about her newly relaunched site and blog (which we can’t stop clicking through) and toasting to her last night at the Mondrian Soho with fellow FOK Becka Diamond djing, we’ve been having our very own Love-fest (no, the Love puns never get old).

We were even able to snap up some of her time this morning for our first ever FOK chat (or make that #FOKchat) on Twitter. But if you missed the convo this morning or if you're not familiar with what a Twitter chat is, we thought we'd show you how it's done. Check out the transcript with Pamela from this morning on everything from her city inspiration to favorite vintage spots and even her cocktail of choice (she’s a woman after our heart, after all).

(And by the way, you should follow us on Twitter for upcoming FOK chats and more of the witty commentary you come here to find, but in 140 characters! Impressive, we know.)

FÖK: Pamela Love
You may not recognize Pamela Love right off the bat, but that doesn’t mean you haven’t seen her work. Love’s NYC-based jewelry design company has been featured in the pages of Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire and online everywhere... more
May 24, 2011
Toasting FOK Pamela Love's Site Relaunch

It’s pretty appropriate that her name is Love- Pamela Love that is. As if we didn’t love her enough as a person, we’re also big fans her work. Try flipping through a monthly glossy without seeing her jewelry grace the page– we dare you. On top of all that, there's never a dull moment with her out on the town, toasting with a Kanon bloody mary (her favorite!) or two.

So when the designer told us she was launching a revamped version of her website (and throwing an awesome party at the Mondrian Soho to celebrate), we jumped at the chance to sit down with her to hear all about her venture and her sustainable creations. Oh yeah, we also love that Love is all about keeping it local and sustainable, just like us. Here, Pamela updates us on her site, her line, and how she’ll be spending the summer.

We can't wait to see your new spiffed up site. Can you tell us a little bit about what we can expect?
There will be a lot more fun features, including a link to my blog!

What prompted the relaunch?
It was just time for a change.

CONTINUE READING TOASTING FOK PAMELA LOVE'S SITE RELAUNCH.
FÖK: Pamela Love
You may not recognize Pamela Love right off the bat, but that doesn’t mean you haven’t seen her work. Love’s NYC-based jewelry design company has been featured in the pages of Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire and online everywhere... more
May 2, 2011
Kanon FOKs On Their Ultimate Party Essentials
Not to toot our own horn or anything, but we think we've got this party thing pretty nailed by now. We've figured out just what makes one worthwhile, whether it's a playlist to die over, a guest list to envy, or key cocktails to lubricate the social setting. That's not to say though, that we're opposed to doing some research on how to make the next event even better.

And for this, who better to ask than our FOKs, who range from DJs to editors to social media and party experts. We asked a few key members of the Kanon family to fill us in on what they consider party essentials. Turn up their recommended music picks and let the good times roll, because now you're in the know too.

Connie Wang, Global editor for Refinery29

Party games: a do or a don’t?

A huge don't. I find that extreme, drunken, competitive concentration always leads to hysteria on my part, and that's not a good look.

Best party theme you'd most like to attend or throw yourself?

Literary villians was a good one. The costumes ranged from Moby Dick to Lolita.

What would be in your ideal goody bag?

A vitamin water, a DVD of some cheesy sitcom, and an Extra-Strength Advil

CONTINUE READING KANON FOKS ON THEIR ULTIMATE PARTY ESSENTIALS.
March 11, 2011
Facehunter Takes Manhattan Part 2
Longtime friend of Kanon Yvan Rodic, also known as The Facehunter, and W recently launched part two of his video series on their site. Last week, we gave you a peek at his day spent in SoHo searching for The One, and now in part two he's ventured to the Meatpacking to see what style and unexpected beauty he can find on the nearly empty cobblestone streets. Rodic even stopped by one of our favorite spots, the Jane Hotel, for a night out with Kanon. "That's the beauty of what I do and the romantic side of the hunting; you never know what's going to happen. Finally after hours and hours, you find the most beautiful person in the world," Rodic says. So does he find this in the end? Well, you'll just have to see for yourself.
FÖK: Yvan Rodic

Yvan Rodic is a man about town and one hell of a photographer, though you may know him best by his artist alter-ego moniker, Facehunter.
January 12, 2011
Toasting the Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation Winners!
Pamela Love
When it comes to the awards category, Ecco Domani is quickly winning our hearts with their annual Fashion Foundation. Since 2001, they’ve been awarding grant money each year to support talented emerging designers, and in 2008 they added an official “sustainable design” category to give designers yet another reason to be green. One such designer, and 2011’s winner, is Tara St. James, the talent behind label Study NY. We’re looking forward to getting to know her better in the coming year.

But we’re not done yet. This post wouldn’t be complete if we couldn’t brag that our very own FOK, Pamela Love, won in this year’s accessories category. Toast to you, Pamela!

Past winners have included some of our favorite designers like Rodarte, Rag & Bone, Thakoon and Alex Wang, so we’re expecting big things from this year’s roster. To check out the rest of the winners, head over to Racked NY.
FÖK: Pamela Love
You may not recognize Pamela Love right off the bat, but that doesn’t mean you haven’t seen her work. Love’s NYC-based jewelry design company has been featured in the pages of Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire and online everywhere... more
December 15, 2010
FOK Steven Rojas' Top Party Tips
Steven Rojas
We know a thing or two about throwing a great party, but we tend to focus our attention on what’s mixing behind the bar rather than who’s mingling beyond it – can you blame us? PR lad turned social media and party planning guru Steven Rojas, however, has his hands dipped in it all, from the beginning planning stages of a kickass party to the final tweet dispersed across the twitterverse at night’s end. As Social Media Director for all of GrandLife (aka The Soho Grand and Tribeca Grand hotels), Rojas basically tweets as a second language. And Facebooks. And YouTubes. And let’s not forget his ability to charm the pants off hotel guests. Who says social media can’t go offline from time to time?

Before the onslaught of holiday parties hits, we went to one of Manhattan’s best sources, FOK (Friend of Kanon) Steven Rojas, to give us some tips for throwing our best holiday party yet. Get planning, people. Steven’s tips, below.

1. Know the City

The venue, DJs, hosts, and sponsors all need to be tailored together for a cohesive event synonymous with the atmosphere of the city.

2. Connections… Connections… Connections

If PR taught me anything, it’s all about connecting with people and (I hate this word, but) networking. Talent is so much easier booked when it’s a friend - connections with venues, sponsors, and brands help event production effortlessly move from an idea to reality.

3. The Right Door Person

A party is made or broken by the crowd, so I always make sure that the person with the list knows the who’s who of the top names and faces in the business. The door person is basically a social architect; they need to be able to construct the perfect foundation for the event.

4. Always Have a Budget

As my friend Vanessa Escamilla has told me, party planning can get expensive, and knowing your budget is necessary. Whether throwing an over-the-top lavish event in Paris or hosting an intimate dinner, sticking to your budget is always a must. Explains why she always has such great parties!

5. Secure a Reputable Venue

Venues can be tricky, but the space is a huge part of the party. Reputable venues like Milk Studios or Le Baron are amazing because they already have great production teams, and securing these venues is the largest part of the event. Without a secure location there can be no party.

Check out a few of the photos from the events GrandLife threw at Art Basel above!
FÖK: Steven Rojas
The social media guru behind GrandLife (aka the Soho Grand and Tribeca Grand hotels), Steven Rojas, makes his living tweeting, Facebooking and ensuring hotel guests and visitors have the best time of their lives.... more
December 10, 2010
Rogan vs Pamela Love Locket Party
Pamela Love and Rogan Gregory
In case you didn't already know, we spent last night with FOK (Friend of Kanon) Pamela Love to celebrate her new line of lockets at Rogan NYC. The gorgeous lockets, made in conjunction with Rogan, were cut in oxidized sterling silver with champagne diamonds and emblazoned with poetic, love-themed phrases like “Let’s Make Mistakes” and “Don’t Stop Love.”

We served a signature Kanon Bloody Mary (appropriately titled “Bloody Love”), shopped, danced, and basically coveted every single one of her pieces in the store. Check out these Polaroids from last night and see them all for yourself--and if you were wondering what to get us for Christmas? Well, now you know.

Photos courtesy of Theodore Boyer.
FÖK: Pamela Love
You may not recognize Pamela Love right off the bat, but that doesn’t mean you haven’t seen her work. Love’s NYC-based jewelry design company has been featured in the pages of Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire and online everywhere... more
December 10, 2010
FOK Guest Twitter Bird: Byrdie Bell Tweets Her Night With Kanon Vodka
Byrdie Bell "En route to ROGAN/@PAMELALOVENYC "
If you follow us on Twitter, you know how much we love capturing our nights accompanied by Kanon cocktails. When we heard a new Friend of Kanon, the gorgeous Byrdie Bell, was coming to Pamela Love's event to celebrate her new line of lockets, made in collaboration with designer Rogan Gregory (and appropriately named ROGAN vs. LOVE), we knew we had to call on her to capture the night through Twitpics and 140-character musings.

Beyond modeling and acting, Byrdie loves to tweet, and she's one of our favorites to follow, so we knew we could count on her to share the night in a unique fashion--no pun intended. Check out Byrdie's night in pictures at the Rogan NYC store, along with a few more FOKs who made appearances.
December 9, 2010
Kanon Mixology: Bloody Love at Rogan vs Pamela Love Party
Bloody Love
Tonight we're hitting the town with one of our dearest Friends of Kanon, jewelry designer Pamela Love at one of our favorite boutiques, Rogan NYC. To celebrate the occasion we're also introducing a new Kanon cocktail made by the newest FOK, Sam Kim from Skimkim Foods. Sam is not only an awesome DJ but her food company produces packaged foods that range from spicy kimchee (wonderfully named, Skimchee) and homemade butters using local and seasonal ingredients. Her spicy Skimchee is part of our very own Kanon Bloody Mary drink named "Bloody Love" that will be served tonight.

Now, you may say to yourself, "Hey, but isn't that just a brunch drink?". Just think of it as part of our ongoing efforts to incorporate our favorite parts of the weekend into everyday life.

Bloody Love

Pour 2oz of Kanon Organic Vodka over ice in a short tumbler glass, stir in 4oz of Bloody Kim Jong-il mix. Garnish with Skimchee or cilantro, watercress and chive herb bundle.

Photos courtesy of Joachim Johnson.
FÖK: Pamela Love
You may not recognize Pamela Love right off the bat, but that doesn’t mean you haven’t seen her work. Love’s NYC-based jewelry design company has been featured in the pages of Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire and online everywhere... more
December 8, 2010
FOK Joshua Katcher: A Day In The Life
We always wish we could spend the day in the shoes of people we love here at Kanon. Luckily for us, Friends of Kanon are always inviting us into their lives whether that be through events or inviting us over for dinner. After all, the best way to our hearts is through our stomachs and cocktail glasses, and being all heart, we're always on the lookout for new friends who can help us with that.

When we heard that Joshua Katcher of The Discerning Brute, a website that chronicles "fashion, food and etiquette for the ethically handsome man," also runs a vegan dinner series called Gracious Gourmand, we knew we would become fast friends with him too. This newest FOK gives us a look at a regular day in his life from a bounty of delicious vegan meals to working on his website and styling jobs for an anti-fur project topped off with a sparkling Kanon cocktail we're craving. Here's Joshua's day:

I am a conscientious hedonist. That is, I'm a person that seeks out pleasure and prioritizes aesthetics ethically. Some might argue that placing any limitations on the pursuit of pleasure, joy or fulfillment is a compromise, but what I've found is that when you indulge in anything - from a perfect cappuccino to a cozy and handsome coat, the pleasure is heightened in the knowledge that those things were created in an ethical manner, where more than just self or convenience is considered. This is also what I love about Kanon - it's a delicious vodka, and it's organic, made in a wind-powered facility, and has been that way since the 16th century.

9am: I am finalizing the menu for the evening's Gracious Gourmand supper-club. Enzo, the rescued Chihuahua, likes to get in on the action. My lap is his preferred location. We'll soon go for our morning walk and deliver the menus to the cafe. I am sporting some great thrift store finds, like the acrylic knit sweater and the cotton moleskin peacoat. A lot of what I do on TheDiscerningBrute.com is offer ethical fashion advice to men. Thrifting is one of the easiest and fun ways to shop ethically. When no new resources have to be extracted, that is ideal. The glasses you see are vintage frames from Fabulous Fanny's, a rad vintage glasses store in the East Village.

CONTINUE READING FOK JOSHUA KATCHER: A DAY IN THE LIFE .
FÖK: Joshua Katcher
Since launching his site, The Discerning Brute, in 2008, Joshua Katcher has provided a platform for men to learn about and discuss ways to make ethical decisions in their daily lives. As a vegan, environmentalist, and social justice... more
November 17, 2010
Night in Pictures: Pairing Dinner at The Fat Radish
Leigh Lezark and Geordon Nicol
If you haven't already heard, we took our partying ways to The Fat Radish for a four-course fete that people all across New York City are still buzzing about. The guest list included some of our favorite FOKs (Friends of Kanon): The Misshapes, Becka Diamond, Elizabeth Spiridakis from White Lightning, Chrissie Miller, Chelsea Leyland, Last Night’s Party's Bronques and the crew from Grand Life NYC, just to name a few, and we couldn't have asked for a better group of people to eat and drink the night away with.

We started off with a mini baked potato amuse bouche--you can read the recipe here!--and a welcoming from Ben, the Fat Radish's charming and (according to the ladies, genetically blessed) chef, along with our very own marketing manager Kristian Mirsch, who was almost straight off the plane from our headquarters in Sweden. Dinner then continued on to the four courses, each paired with a signature Kanon cocktail. The duck course was a big hit, as was our dessert, an apple pie so good we can still kinda taste it if we concentrate really hard. After dinner, guests lingered until we eventually closed the restaurant down—an indicator of a damn good night, if we do say so ourselves. To see David Perez's awesome pictures of the event, check out our album on Facebook and tag yourselves!

Photos courtesy of Theodore Boyer.
November 17, 2010
FOK Guest Blogger: Lauren Sherman of Fashionista
Chelsea Leyland, Chrissie Miller, and Minka Sicklinger
Even with our preview of the pairing dinner we hosted with Fat Radish last night, we still never expected to have as much fun and great food as we did. We were surrounded by Kanon cocktails, amazing dishes, and of course some of our favorite people turned out in their best. We asked one of our most stylish Friends of Kanon, Lauren Sherman from Fashionista, to give us her run-down of the night, which according to her was all about "good food, good vodka, good clothes." Be sure to stop by our Facebook album to see the rest of the pictures from the night and tag yourselves! Here's Lauren's take:

I love Fat Radish, the Lower East Side’s new eatery. It draws in the fashion crowd like no other restaurant right now. I also love a stiff drink--which means Kanon vodka and English-inspired food pairing suits me much better than wine and pasta ever will.

So I was thrilled to pop by the Radish last evening for Kanon’s inaugural dinner party. We were treated to some delicious eats--I need more curried cauliflower, stat!--and tasty drinks. (Who knew straight up vodka infused with a little cinnamon, star anise and clove could be so good?)

But since this was a Kanon party--known for attracting the pretty people--and since I’m a fashion writer, I couldn’t help but notice the incredibly stylish ladies and gents sitting around me. My nominee for best-dressed is a punkish girl with loads of tattoos, an army green bubble skirt, perfect red lipstick and beat-up white moccasins, which somehow sweetened the whole deal. Runners up include Sophomore’s Chrissie Miller, who always looks effortlessly cool, Leigh Lezark, Nylon’s Faran Krentcil in leopard Rodarte for Target, and Chelsea Leyland in a chambray shirt and massive fur hat.

I left the party filled with food, vodka, and plenty of outfit inspiration. Thanks, Kanon!

Photos by David Shadi Perez.
FÖK: Lauren Sherman
Lauren Sherman is the founder of The Fashion Beat, currently an editor over at Lucky, and a friend of Kanon because of her love of “good food, good vodka, and good clothes.”
November 12, 2010
FOK Guest Blogger: David Cho of The Awl
Cee Lo
We're thankful it's Friday, especially since we spent our Thursday night in the comfort of two C's we quite enjoy here at Kanon, cocktails and musician Cee Lo. Last night at the W hotel, Cee Lo performed songs from his new release entitled "The Lady Killer". With such a great turnout and performance, we turned to Friend of Kanon, David Cho from The Awl to give us the low-down on Cee Lo's performance, and best of all, the people-watching, at this Midtown fete. Here, David's take on the night:

I think one of my favorite things to do at a party is people watch - specifically getting to examine the cross-section of people who are there on any given night. Ideally it's a real hodgepodge of social groups, a juxtaposition of a bunch of different and interesting people who would otherwise never all find themselves within the same enclosed space with a single, unified goal - in this case, to see Cee-Lo perform (Now, I wasn't there when it happened, but I imagine that this is also very comparable to what the first boats to Ellis Island were like. I am almost entirely certain that I am not wrong about this!).

CONTINUE READING FOK GUEST BLOGGER: DAVID CHO OF THE AWL.
FÖK: David Cho
David Cho has been everywhere lately–The New York Observer, the Times, and our browser cache, all thanks to his work over at The Awl. Under the supervision of Cho, The Awl aims to encourage intellectual discussion... more
November 4, 2010
Kanon Vodka and Mouli Autumn/Winter collection launch
We're not the kind of vodka who could up and forget our roots, which is why we recently spent the night with fellow Swedish brand Mouli and sponsored a full shopping preview of their new Autumn/Winter collection. With the help of Swedish blogger and Friend of Kanon Petra Tungården, we've put together this video of the night's event, a party made complete with our latest Kanon cocktail, The Pie Chart—part lemon juice, apple juice, cinammon, and of course Kanon vodka.
November 3, 2010
Facehunter Exhibit at the W
Yvan Rodic with a friend
We're sure you've all heard of our FOK (Friend of Kanon) Yvan Rodic, though you probably know him best as style photographer Facehunter. Last night, he showed off some of his amazing photography at the W Hotel in Times Square and we were there to help out with some signature cocktails and an adoring eye. Here's a look at some of his own photos from the event. And you thought there was nothing worth going to Times Square for...
FÖK: Yvan Rodic

Yvan Rodic is a man about town and one hell of a photographer, though you may know him best by his artist alter-ego moniker, Facehunter.
November 3, 2010
FOK Guest Blogger: Jenn Camp of Le Fashion at NAAG Launch
Jenn Camp with her boyfriend
On Monday night we helped fete new style site naag.com with founders Agyness Deyn and Fiona Byrne, best friends who came together to put their own spin on fashion and style coverage. So, naturally, we turned to one of our good friends FOK (Friend of Kanon) Jenn Camp and brought her along to document the night and have a great time. You may recognize Jenn from some of our other Kanon events at our Hamptons house over the summer, but Jenn is best known for her work over at Le Fashion, Olsens Anonymous and Le Smoking, just to name a few. Girlfriend writes no less than five blogs. Here's a look at what went down with Jenn's favorite pictures from last night and be sure to head on over to naag.com for more great fashion and lifestyle coverage
FÖK: Jenn Camp
Jenn Camp is a full-time grad student and even fuller-time blog maven. She’s the founder of five blogs, including Le Fashion, Le Smoking and Olsens Anonymous, but in addition to it all, she still... more
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