Dash Talents at Miss Universe 2023

Dash Talents at Miss Universe 2023

by | Jan 14, 2023 | Miss Universe

Video by Noel Calubaquib

Dash Talents team landed in New Orleans on January 12 to take part in Miss Universe 2023 alongside Jojo Bragais, the sponsor and designer of the official Miss Universe shoes, and his team.  Before diving into the world of Miss Universe, we planned to experience the traditional New Orleans food at Brennan’s, the famous restaurant known for its authentic Creole Cuisine.  However, something even more exciting came along.  Upon entrance into Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown New Orleans, which has been housing Miss Universe contestants, we were greeted by Eric Scott, who is part of the Jojo Bragais shoes team.  He greeted us warmly and invited us to take part in the Miss Philippines photoshoot featuring Jojo Bragais shoes.  The change of plans was an easy decision as we came to support the team and the Miss Universe organization.  A quick restaurant cancellation later, we made our way to the ballroom to prep for the photoshoot.  There were fans who traveled from all over the world, lined up waiting on the beautiful Miss Philippines – Celeste Cortesi.  Check out our experience!

 

Miss Philippines Celeste Cortesi, glammed by the Miss Universe sponsor MUBA, strikes a pose.

Jojo Bragais and his close team, including the international pageant coach Jan Quijano, were prepping for the photoshoot, adjusting the gown and selecting shoes.

Jojo Bragais introduced a brand new design of Miss Universe shoes named Maureen. The theme of this design is inclusivity.  These shoes come in a variety of nude colors to match all skin tones, and of course our favorite color, silver.

With limited time to spare, Jojo Bragais and his team were preparing photoshoot concept, planned for a huge publication.  We wish we could tell you more, but you need to wait and see.

Celeste made the shoot vision come true.  She was dressed in a gown created by a young Filipino designer.  Jojo Bragais is all about giving young talent an opportunity.

The photographer behind the photoshoot was Dion Trinidad.  His work has been seen in many major publications, such as Vogue.  Hint Hint!

Videographer was Sam Morales, while Dion directed the vision and took photos.  Of course our creative director Noel Calubaquib captured his signature shot as well!

One of the photo and video shoot concepts included Celeste being surrounded by fans and paparazzi.

Noel Calubaquib was part of the shoot too!

Team work makes dream work!

Our PR director Yelena Scheidler posed with  Jojo Bragais after helping with the beautiful shoot.

As a pleasant surprise we bumped into Tony Smith, National Director for Miss Bahamas Universe.

Holly of VIP Pageantry has been a ray of light for us every time we bumped into her, which lucky for us has been often.

After a beautiful evening with of photoshoots, we still made it out to the legendary Bourbon Street to get a taste of New Orleans.  Check out our experience so far.

Stay tuned for the Miss Universe event coverage by Dash Talents next.

Scott Barnes Makeup Masterclass in DC

Scott Barnes Makeup Masterclass in DC

by | Jan 2, 2023 | Event, Interviews

Video by Noel Calubaquib. Interview and Article by Yelena Scheidler.

Axel Vasquez, celebrity makeup artist and owner of Axel Makeup Academy, gave Washington DC area the biggest gift of beauty.  What could that be, you ask?  He invited Scott Barnes, the best of the best legendary celebrity makeup artist and beauty industry leader, to teach a makeup masterclass to pro artists and beauty enthusiasts from DC.  It was no surprise that artists traveled from all over the world to watch Scott Barnes create the signature look, including the iconic glow, as we often see on superstar Jennifer Lopez and many celebrities touched by Scott.

Born into a family of accomplished artists, Scott Barnes began his career as an artist and photographer, but it was only a matter of time till makeup became his power force.  It wasn’t easy at first, but he mastered his skills through hard work, persistence, and dedication, while treating each beauty experience as art rather than following trends. This set him apart! His passion has consistently been to make women feel powerful and confident through beauty.  And through his busy schedule working with celebrities, expanding his iconic makeup line Scott Barnes Cosmetics, building his dream studio, and traveling, he takes the time to educate through classes, his books, YouTube, and social media.

After class completion, Yelena Scheidler sat down with Scott Barnes for an interview during which the conversation traveled all the way back through Scott’s beauty history, including a very necessary stop in the 1990’s.  What made the 90’s models so iconic?  Watch to find out more.

Dash Talents interviewed Dahlia of Dahlia Design, a long-time friend and client of Axel and supporter of Scott Barnes; Miss DC USA 2022, Axel’s client, and Axel Makeup Academy graduate taught by Yelena, Faith Porter; and Axel Makeup Academy graduate, educator, and owner of VOW By Alondra, Alondra Antezana.

Axel Vasquez is an international celebrity makeup artist and hair stylist with passion to educate.  Though his style is very influential, he has always looked up to Scott Barnes and his artistry.  Finally having the opportunity to host a masterclass taught by Scott Barnes was very special.

A team of creatives united.  From left to right: Axel Vasquez, Ramaa Haute Couture, Gabrielle Paoletti, and Scott Barnes.

Backstage Scott Barnes was reunited with a model he once worked with, Misty James, owner of James Talent Group.

Even the most experienced students in the room, walked away with new ideas and techniques.  Follow and support: Axel Vasquez and Scott Barnes.

Please visit Axel Makeup Academy for further opportunities to study beauty.

Meta Gala 2022

Meta Gala 2022

by | Dec 20, 2022 | Art, Event, Fashion, Interviews

Video by Noel Calubaquib, Interviews by Yelena Scheidlers and Rachel Clevinger

LG Motion and Justice Smith extended Dash Talents an invitation to attend Meta Gala in Richmond, VA.  Meta Gala is the premiere date reveal party for MetaCouture SS’23. Clearly taking inspiration from the Met’s infamous Met Gala, the night consisted of creative alchemy, tech immersion, performance art, and of course fashion. The theme for the evening was Meta-Masquerade: a futuristic spin on the classic Masquerade Ball. This event was the first of its kind in Richmond, and the DMV area, further broadcasting the voices and style of the South. Meta Gala was teasing the Spring Show, which will explore the intersections of technology and nature, community and isolation, humility and ego. 

Photography is by Noel Calubaquib, Roy Negrosa, and Wave.  Please follow METACOUTURE for upcoming show announcements.

The Gatsby Showcase 2022

The Gatsby Showcase 2022

by | Dec 17, 2022 | Behind the Scenes, Event, Fashion, Interviews

Video by Noel Calubaquib, Interview by Yelena Scheidler

A star-studded evening of Hollywood stars, fashion, beauty, and purpose took place on December 4, 2022 at the Inaugural Gatsby Showcase Gala, produced by the luxury event rental company L&B Concepts. The event was hosted by the electric Hollywood actress and philanthropist, Vivica Fox.  Many notable people walked down the red carpet, each being personally announced. Dash Talents interviewed many stars of the show, including supermodel, activist, and fashion icon Beverly Johnson, who was was recognized with a Trailblazer Award.  She was the first woman of color to grace the covers of both American Vogue and French Elle magazines.

Underneath all the beauty at the 2022 Gatsby Showcase Gala, there was a deep cause.  The Gatsby Showcase Foundation, which put together the event is all about giving back, raising awareness and funds to plant a seed of hope in the lives of the historically underprivileged.

The event featured some of the top high-end designers: Anya By Vivien, Miguel Wilson, Miller’s Furs, and L&B Concepts.  These designers showcased their fashion on the runway and helped raise money for the associated non-profits.  

 

Video by Noel Calubaquib

Enjoy the below photos of the majestic event by Phelan Marc

To support and contribute toward The Gatsby Showcase, please visit https://thegatsbyshowcase.org/

The World Top Model USA Winner Is…

The World Top Model USA Winner Is…

by | Nov 24, 2022 | Fashion, Interviews

Video by Noel Calubaquib. Interview and article by Yelena Scheidler

Washington DC is becoming highly-noticed for its fashion and beauty worldwide as the president of the World Top Model and head of one of the most prestigious agencies in the world – Major Model Management, Fiori Tondi, traveled from Italy to judge at the World Top Model USA at Hyatt Regency, Bethesda, Maryland on November 19.  Not only was the show designed to bring the greatest of modeling opportunities to the contestants, it also raised awareness of a key topic that impacts so many people: mental health.

The show was organized by supermodel and educator Cintia Hullen, Marcela Urioste and Doctor Mobi, and hosted by Darren Haynes, 11x Emmy Winning Sports Anchor at WUSA9 and Janna Sedlakova, a long-time model and author.  The evening was full of fashion icons, designers, photographers, influencers, artists and more as everyone watched around 20 women compete for an opportunity to win the title of the World Top Model USA and progress into the world-level finals, competing among 60 other countries in Budapest, Hungary in December.

According to the judges, it was a tough competition and decision.  Based on popular vote, the winner of the World Top Model USA was Samantha Martinez. 

From Morgantown, West Virginia, this beauty holds on to a meaningful story that would inspire many.  In 2019, Samantha suffered a major seizure that completely impacted her ability to walk for over 9 months.  She was determined and gained her ability back, which then turned into runway, and now into winning such a prestigious title.

The World Top Model is an ultimate international model search event that holds competitions among 60 countries.  At the end of each year The World Top Model winner is awarded funding, extraordinary modeling opportunities, press, attention, and the best of training.

The World Top Model USA show was taken to the next level of entertainment when RoRo Yone, the Global Top 10 Charting Hip Hop Artist, performed a 5 minute mix of his songs.  He let all contestants take part in his performance, making it not only electric but beautiful too.

The entertainment guests also included The Gem Fatales.

Professional makeup for World Top Model USA was provided to all models by Dash Talents glam team, lead by celebrity makeup artist Yelena Scheidler.  Artists included: Sarah Nour, Christy Campos, Simran Shahi, Sarah Bentman, Fotima Dostieva, and Terazia Jones.

Designers featured at the World Top Model USA: Ramona Designs, Malcolm Staples, DiDomenico Design, Aurelius Suits, Sonia Gatbarino Atelier, and more

Jojo Bragais Shoes, the official brand of the Miss Universe shoes, was a sponsor for the World Top Model USA.  The winner received a pair of beautiful shoes in style Jehza that she will wear during the finals in Budapest. Baby Espree, US Representative of Jojo Bragais Shoes, traveled from Texas to personally present these beauties to the 2022 USA winner, Samantha.  Please follow this brand.

Photography by Roy Negrosa and Noel Calubaquib. 

To follow the World Top Model competition further, please visit World Top Model USA Instagram, World Top Model Official Instagram, World Top Model Website.