Candace Smith introduces the Lady Warrior shirt

The beautiful Candace Smith
wearing one of the Lady Warrior
shirts.

If you haven't noticed this Summer, Bravo's "Millionaire Matchmaker" made the move over to WE tv and rebranded the show as "Million Dollar Matchmaker".  There is a new format along with matchmakers from the past, but one thing remains the same is Candace Smith. In fact, matchmaker Candace Smith returns as a senior matchmaker; actually the only matchmaker to appear in every episode this season. In true Candace fashion, she keeps it sexy and so much fun every Friday night at 10pm/9c.  

 

In addition to the new show, Candace stars in the film My Father, Die, which premiered at South by Southwest and will be in theaters at the end of the year. This action thriller is set in the South and is written and directed by Sean Brosnan and produced by Pierce Brosnan, Sanja Banjic and Orian Williams. Amazing right?

 

And if that wasn't enough, the beautiful and brilliant philanthropist created the Lady Warrior Shirt, which gives a portion of proceeds to the Downtown Women's Center in the heart of Los Angeles, where she has been a longtime volunteer.  

Miss Hawaii 2014 Moani Hara
wearing the Lady Warrior shirt.
The Lady Warrior shirts are available
at Candace's official store.

 

When asked about the inspiration behind the shirts, Candace said, "The Lady Warrior Shirt was inspired by all the fascinating women in my life who are not at all the one-dimensional image perpetuated by the media. Some of these women include the young girls I have the pleasure of coaching; the resilient women at the Downtown Women’s Center I interact with; the boss women in the entertainment industry; the strong, Southern women in my family and my Miss USA sisters."

 

"Many have endured much more than anyone would ever know because of how high they hold their heads, the warmth in their hearts and the swag in their steps. I worked closely with Frank Denbow of Startup Threads (Shopify) to bring my vision to life and I'm eternally grateful," she continued.

 

What is Candace's mission? What inspired her to create the Lady Warrior Shirt? "I hope to not only spread awareness for the Downtown Women's Center but to also empower women of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds to find their inner warrior.  We are taught as young women to be ladies but it is also crucial that women learn to be fighters as well.  Women should be comfortable with this duality and celebrate it," she shared.

 

The Lady Warrior shirt is all about
women's empowerment. An
incentive to the soul.

So, how will the purchase of a shirt help the Downtown Women's Center? According to Candace, they will help the shelter immensely. "I worked with the Downtown Women's Center, where I have volunteered for many years, to arrange for a portion of all proceeds to go directly to the center. The Downtown Women’s Center is so important because it is not just a shelter; they provide permanent supportive housing and a safe and healthy community fostering dignity, respect, and personal stability with the goal of supporting the women until they feel strong again to be independent."

 

To support the Downtown Women's Center, simply purchase a Lady Warrior Shirt at Candace's official store. Just remember, when you do rock it to share the link along with the hashtag #LadyWarriorShirt all over social media.

 

Catch up with Candace on her official website as well as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

 

Check out my latest interview with her about Million Dollar Matchmaker here.

Bellami Beauty Bar celebrates one year

Where will you be on Thursday, July 28th?

It is official. On Thursday, July 28, 2016 from 6 pm until 10 pm Bellami is celebrating their annual anniversary party for their Beauty Bar. Located in the heart of West Hollywood on 645 N. Robertson Blvd, for one night only you'll have the opportunity to meet other Bellami bellas as well as, beauty influencers such as Amrezy, Lilly Ghalichi, Nicole Guerriero and the iconic hair activist Guy Tang. Widely recognized by top stylists and modern royalty, Bellami is worshipped by millions around the world.

This year's festivities will include red carpet arrivals, exclusive interviews, and photo opportunities with the incredible Bellami team and talent partners. The event will also feature special guests and celebrity appearances and will include cocktails, hors'doeuvrs, and live entertainment by a guest DJ. As one of the biggest social media takeover events ever, this is one of the hottest parties on the planet.

Some of Bellami's hottest collaborations include the Kylie Hair Kouture with Kyle Jenner (Keeping Up with the Kardashians), Lilly Hair with Lilly Ghalichi (Shahs of Sunset), TestaRossa with Natalie Eva Marie (WWE and Total Divas) and much more. Recently, the brand collaborated with beauty guru and YouTube star Nicole Guerriero for Nicole Guerriero Gold.  

Did you know that just by attending the event, you will have access to a true VIP experience such as color matching and installation? Get your Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, Tumblr and Periscope ready because this an event you're not going to want to miss. For more information, visit Bellami today. #BellamiOneYear

Norooz 2016: Celebrating in Los Angeles

A Norooz half-seen table.
(photo by Wikimedia Commons - Hessam)

As Spring approaches us, we come closer to the Persian New Year - Norooz. As this 'new day' is part of a tradition that started over 3,000 years ago, today Norooz is celebrated all over the world by people of an array of ethnicities and groups. Marking the first month of the Farvardin in the Iranian calendar, this day also marks the first day of Spring. Los Angeles is nicknamed "Tehrangeles" due to it's vastly populated Persian community. Since it is 2016, a lot of great things are happening for the Persian New Year this year. So, what is going on in the city of angels and surrounding areas for Norooz? For the list of events in Los Angeles for Persian New Year, simply click here right now.

Norooz 2015: Celebrating in Los Angeles

Celebrating Norooz.
Mersi Pejman Akbarzadeh.

A new dawn, a new day and new life begins and that day is on Norooz. Marked as the first day of Spring, it is the start of a brand new year. Celebrated by Persians all around the world, Norooz begins on Friday, March 20th. Los Angeles is often dubbed "Tehrangeles" for it's extensive Persian population. As Norooz approaches, a lot of amazing events are happening in the city of angels. So, what are they?

On Saturday, March 14th the Farhang Foundation will be celebrating the Iranian New Year at the Norman P. Murray Community Center from 11:30 am until 5 pm. Located in the heart of Mission Viejo, if you are looking for an event to attend, this is definitely where you will want to be. For more information, call: (310) 666-1546.

On Saturday, March 14th the Aliso Viejo Library and Persian Storytime presents the 2nd Annual Persian New Year Celebration. From 1:30 pm until 4:30 pm, you can celebrate Nowruz with children's art gallery, crafts, short video clips, storytime, face painting, and more. For more information, call: (949) 360-1730.

On Sunday, March 15th the ISCC (or International Society for Children with Cancer) will be featuring an array of delicious Persian food including pastries and jams at the Hyatt Regency in Newport Beach from 11 am until 6 pm. Aside from amazing food, you can expect amazing entertainment too. The time is now to celebrate. For more information, call: (949) 679-9911.

On Sunday, March 15th the Child Foundation will be holding their annual Nowruz Bazaar. Located at the Hilton in Woodland Hills, you can expect great food, great entertainment, and even greater people. Admission is free. For more information, call: (310) 453-0809.

On Tuesday, March 17th the Norooz celebrations continue at the 6th Annual 4Shanbe Soori Party. Starting at 8 pm at the Port Restaurant in the heart of Corona de Mar, you can expect nothing less than a good time here. For more information, call: (949) 439-7097.

On Tuesday, March 17th starting at 6:30 pm you can enjoy a Persian Feast at Ray's and Star Bar. Hosted by the LACMA, you can explore the museum after-hours and enjoy great art, food, and more. Located in the heart of LA, the Cur-ate Series is the opportunity to explore a Persian themed four course meal prepared by executive chef Viet Pham (Food Network Star, Iron Chef America, etc). The cost is $90-$100. For more information, call: (323) 857-6180.

On Tuesday, March 17th join Kayham Kalhor and Shujaat Husain Khan as they entertain you with a Persian/Indian Fusion Concert with the Ghazal Ensemble and Sandeep Das. Located in the heart of Irvine, this event will be held at Barclay theatre and starts at 8 pm. For more information, call (949) 854-4607.

On Tuesday, March 17th you can enjoy yoga and meditation at the Iranian American Center in San Diego from 6 pm until 7:30 pm. Hosted by the PCC (or Persian Cultural Center) releasing tension can be an amazing thing to do for the new year. For more information, call: (858) 552-9355.

On Wednesday, March 18th the Rancho Park Rotary is holding their Nowruz Party. Located in the heart of Los Angeles if you want to eat, drink, and dance, this is the time to do so. For more information call: (310) 722-1817.

On Friday, March 20th join the ISTA (or Iranian Students Association at University of California in San Diego) from 7:30 pm until 11:30 pm at the Price Center in San Diego for the ISTA Norooz Celebration and After Party. Enjoy a banquet dinner followed by live music and entertainment provided by DJ Mohsen and DJ Al. For more information, email: ista@ucsd.edu.

On Saturday, March 21st the Persian Cultural Center and Association of Iranian Professionals is holding their Annual Nowruz Gala at the Marriot Hotel in La Jolla. Starting at 6 pm, this celebration includes a seated dinner, comedy by Tehran, a featured dance performance by the Persian Dance Academy, and music by DJ Julius. For more information, call (858) 522-9355.

On Saturday, March 21st the IPAA (or Iranian Psychological Association of America) and the IADA (or Iranian American Dental Association) are holding their annual Nowruz Gala. This event is located at the Grand Ballroom in the heart of Los Angeles. Starting at 7 pm, you can expect an amazing time. For more information, call: (310) 499-5622.

On Saturday, March 21st celebrate Norooz at Club Pardiss in Laguna Woods at Club House 7 for their annual Persian New Year Festival. From 6:30 pm until 11 pm, you can enjoy amazing entertainment from Nader, Nadia, Eddie, Lucia, and more. Complimentary Persian tea and pastries are available. For more information, call: (949) 268-2417.

On Saturday, March 21st you can celebrate Norooz at the Grand Park with award winning actress and activist, Mary Apick. Located in the heart of "Tehrangeles" from 1 pm until 5 pm, you will have an amazing time. Discover Persian culture at it's finest. With special guests Mayor Erick Garcetti, Edward James Olmos, actor Paul Sorvino, and Parviz Sayyad, you are going to want to attend. Guests can eat, drink, and enjoy the finest Persian dishes. Live entertainment is also provided and to top it off, everyone will have the chance to explore Persian culture through the arts. Admission is free. Proceeds benefit the arthritis foundation. For more information, call (818) 288-4050.

On Saturday, March 21st the Metropolitan Nightclub in West Hollywood is holding their Norouz Mega Bash. Starting at 10 pm, you can expect real excitement celebrating the Persian New Year. Music is provided by Bobby K, DJ Sepi, Aaron Sparxx, and Alex. #NorouzMegaBash For more information, call: (310) 363-0311.

On Saturday, March 21st the PCC (or Persian Cultural Center) and the AIAP (or the Association of Iranian American Professionals) will host their annual Nowruz Celebration at the Marriott in La Jolla. Featuring DJ Julius, Tehran, and a performance from the Persian Cultural Dance Academy, you can expect an amazing time. Tickets are $100-$110 per person. For more information, call: (858) 552-9355.

On Sunday, March 22nd, LACMA (or Los Angeles County Museum of Art) is celebrating their 7th Annual Nowruz Celebration. Located in the heart of LA, this event is also hosted by the Farhang Foundation too. For more information, call: (310) 666-1546.

On Sunday, March 22nd you can join the IAC Group (or Iranian American Community Group) of Orange County at the Colonel Barber Park from 1 pm until 6 pm for their Persian New Year Festival. Located the Rose Garden in Irvine, you can enjoy live entertainment and amazing Persian food. Plus, it is free. For more information, email: contact@iac-group.org.

On Sunday, March 22nd you can celebrate the 9th Annual Norooz Festival in Pasadena. The action starts at 2 pm. Not only will there be complimentary tea and pastries served, entertainment for both adults and kids, and contests. Is there anything better? Sponsored by Trader Joes, US Bank, Adspace, Inc. and more, you will want to be here to celebrate the Persian New Year. Guest of Honor, mayor Bob Bogaard will be attending. For more information, call: (626) 351-9631.

On Thursday, March 26th celebrate the Persian New Year with the IALA (or Iranian American Lawyers Association) from 6:30 pm until 10:30 pm at Flame Restaurant in Los Angeles. Enjoy a Persian style buffet, as well as, appetizers and desserts. Entertainment and music provided by DJ Hessam. For more information, email: IALAlawyers@gmail.com.

On Saturday, March 28th Essence and Avesta Empire proudly present their Kurdistan Nowruz Gala Party with Foad Naraghi and Nidar at the Eretz Cultural Center. Starting at 8 pm, you can enjoy a wonderful time. For more information, call: (424) 261-5873.

On Saturday, March 28th IMAN is hosting their annual Persian New Year celebration. At the Iran Hall, in the IMAN center, you can enjoy a wonderful time. For more information, call: (310) 202-8181.

On Saturday, March 28th celebrate Norooz Eve at Club Mahin in Laguna Woods. From 6 pm until 11 pm, you can enjoy an epic time at Clubhouse 7. For more information, call: (949) 468-6899.

On Saturday, March 28th you can enjoy the musical stylings of Shahkar Bineshpajooh. Starting at 8:30 pm at the Dolly Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard, you can enjoy an amazing part of Persian culture. For more information, call: (310) 710-3040.

On Sunday, March 29th the NIPOC (or Network of Iranian Professionals in Orange County) is celebrating the 13 Bedar at Mason Regional Park. Starting at noon, you can enjoy a wonderful time in celebrating Norooz. For more information, call: (949) 851-3993.

If you know of an event that is not listed, please share the event in the comments and I will go ahead and publish it. Thank you.

Los Angeles: Best Persian Restaurants of 2015

Koubideh, courtesy of Persian Dutch Network.

Nicknamed "Tehrangeles", LA is known for its culture, its milieu, its bricolage, and its entertainment. With over 10 million residents alone in the metropolitan area, Los Angeles is also the second largest city in America.

 

Are you looking to enjoy a fantastic Persian dinner? So, what are the best Persian Restaurants in Los Angeles? Just click here to find out.

Celebrating Norooz 2013 in Los Angeles

Traditional Norooz Table.
(Photo by HengamehRM)

Norooz, the Persian New Year is celebrated by millions of Iranians around the world. Not only does Norooz mark the first day of Spring, it also marks the beginning of the Iranian calendar. This year Norooz begins on Wednesday, March 20th, however; there are festivities around the world that start before, as well as, after. Sale no mobarak!

Los Angeles is nicknamed Tehrangeles, as it is home to almost one million Iranian residents which all celebrate the Persian new year. Every year items are placed on a table to symbolize things (a mirror represents sky, as a candle represents fire, a goldfish represents animals, as painted eggs represent humans, etc.) that we are truly grateful for. Although many Iranians love to celebrate with their families, there are also many who love to attend events for the New Year.

For instance; on March 15th, The Midnight Mission will be hosting it's 2nd annual Norooz Festival. Located on 601 S. San Pedro St, this event starts at 3 pm until 6 pm which consists of a street fair. For more information, please call (213) 624-9258.

Vaghte asr on March 16th , you can attend the Norooz festival at the Arena for just $10 per ticket. Located on 6655 Santa Monica Blvd, the festival this year is 5 hours long and includes a lot of non stop entertainment such as music by the Black Cats, Traditional Persian Dances, Face & Egg Painting, Norooz sing-a-long with kids, the Djanbazian Dance Academy, Kiddie Karoo Musical Puppet Show, and much more. Chaaykhaaneh wine, champagne, and beer tasting is also an event you do not want to miss. Make sure you bring your ID at the door. For more information, please call (310) 383-2110 or (818) 288-4050.

　Oghateh khoobi dashteh bashi azizam. On March 17th, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is holding it's 5th annual Norooz celebration. Located on 5905 Wilshire Blvd, the action starts at 11:30 am and goes on until 7 pm. This Norooz celebration is sponored by Art of the Middle East and the Farhang Foundation. Although the event is free, general admission to the Bing theater is $15. For more information, please call (323) 857-6000.

The children are our present as the children are our future. On March 17th, from 11 am until 6 pm the Child Foundation is hosting it's 12th annual Norooz celebration. Held at the Hilton Irvine at the OC airport on 18800 MacArthur Blvd, you will not want to miss out. With everything from face painting and delicious Persian food to Haji Firooz and Haft seen, you are going to want to attend. Plus, the admission is free. For more information, please call (949) 754-0611 or (310) 453-0809.

Vaghte asr on March 19th, the official 4Shanbeh Soori After Party will be held at Landmark in Corona Del Mar. Starting at 9 pm until 2 am, this special Norooz event is organized by Pure Production. Meet new friends or bring new ones to enjoy the experience. Must be 21+. For more information, please call (949) 675-5556.

　

Norooz is such an exciting time for Iranians around the world. On March 20th, Serra's Dine and Dance is hosting a night to remember. Starting at 9 pm, not only will enjoy amazing music, but great drinks and Persian food specials. Located in the heart of Studio City on 12449 Ventura Blvd, if you are looking for a night to remember this is the one. Must be 21+. For more information, please call (818) 760-1002. Man in ghaza ro doust daram.
　

On March 21st, you can celebrate Norooz at the Le Foyer Ballroom & Lounge. Located on 6730 Laurel Canyon Blvd, not only will this event offer a full 4 course meal, but also offer 20 different appetizers, fresh fruit, and a dessert station. An array of beverages which include soft drinks, coffee, and Persian tea is also available. Ghazato bokhor! Tickets are just $70 per person/$25 per child. For more information, please call (818) 634-8873.

Triple D is always a great time. You know dining, dancing, and drinking. On March 21st, Shabeh Jomeh is holding an amazing Norooz event which consists of dancing, dining, and drinking. The fun will be held at STIR Restaurant & Lounge located on 13359 Ventura Blvd in Studio City where it will begin at 9 pm and there is no cover (which is $10) until 10:30. Must be 21+. For more information, please call (818) 986-2000.

　
Vaghte asr on March 21st, the Iranian American Lawyers Association is holding it's annual Norooz mixer at the Cucina Bene, which is located on 4511 Sepulveda Blvd. The cost is $50 per person which also includes dinner. Sponored by the Iranian Hotline. Must be 21+. For more information, please call (310) 266-5354.

　
Ba man bia. On March 21st, the Iranian Psychological Association of America is inviting you to their annual IPAA Norooz Gala. Starting at 7 pm on 11301 Olympic Blvd in Los Angeles, you will get to indulge in the finest hors d'oeuvres, dinner, and dessert. This is a classy event and costs $95 per seat or $900 for a table of 10. Must be 21+. For more information, please call (310) 499-5622.

Norooz should always be fun. On March 23rd, LURE Nighclub is holding it's annual Norooz celebration. The fun starts at 10 pm and goes until 3 am. LA and OC's hottest DJs will be spinning all night. Located on 1439 Ivar Ave in the heart of Tehrangeles, you will not want to miss this party. Limited bottle specials and VIPs available. Must be 21+. For more information, please call (323) 463-0004.

Embracing the Persian culture is one thing, but learning about refined history is another. On March 25th, the California State University in Long Beach is hosting a free screening of "Iran, the Forgotten Glory" which is organized by the MAKAN Foundation. This is a documentary film by an Iranian director and writer. It starts at 6 pm. For more information, please call (562) 985-4111.

On March 26th, the Irvine City Hall invites you to a beautiful Norooz reception. Located at the Civic Center Plaza, the Eid dee dani starts at 4 pm and lasts until 5 pm which includes various refreshments such as pastries, tea, and fruit. After 5 pm the city council will hold a meeting followed by a reading of the proclamation. For more information, please call (949) 724-6000.

Always for a great new year and always for an even greater cause. On March 29th, the IMA foundation is hosting it's Norooz celebration at 3376 Motor Ave in the heart of Los Angeles. Dinner and entertainment is held by POUYA. For more information, please call (310) 202-8181.

The traditional dinner consists of Sabzi Polo, Reshteh Polo, Dolme Barg, and Kookoo Sabzi along with doogh and/or Persian tea. Although it is a wonderful experience enjoying authentic Persian cuisine in a home with family, there are several amazing Persian eateries in Los Angeles have their doors open for this particular event. Some of these restaurants include: Shaherzad, Darya, Aram, Reyhan, Baran, Raffi's, Persepolis, Shamshiri, Farid, Pasha's, Javan, Kolah Farangi, Sultani, Le Maison de Creme, Shiraz, Dlish, Peris, Heidar Baba, Arthur's Garden, Flame Persian, Cafe Glace, Dowtown Kabob, Ruby Room, Kings Kabab, Sangak, Nersess, Massis Kabob, Royal Vanak, Jino's Pars, Kabab & More, Shah-Abbas, California Kabob Kitchen, Shirazi, and more. In besiar khoshmazeh ast!
　

Nowruz, Nouruz, Norouz, Norooz, Narooz, Nawru, Nauruz, Nawroz, Noruz, Nohrooz, Novruz, Nauroz, Navroz, Nowroz, Naw-Rúz, Nowroj, Navroj, Nevruz, , نوروز, نوروز