Author: Grace Capobianco

Categories
Featured NYC

When I Fall in Love, with Gregory Harrington

Love, what is the meaning of love, and why do we use it so often? I love my new scarf, I love chocolate, I love the morning sun, I love you! Why do we use this word to describe a feeling, thing, or action?

When researching the word love, we found 4 different kinds of love. Actually, we found some that say there are six. For this post, let us stick with 4.

Because love can be applied in many circumstances, ancient Greeks divided the concept of love into four different types of love.

1. Philia, the love of friends and equals

2. Storge, love one has for their children or family

3. Eros, an erotic, passionate love

4. Agape, the love towards mankind, something we all need to do more of

February 14th is the day that we celebrate love, and this year it could not come soon enough. This is a special year for many, some grateful to have those loved ones around to celebrate with, while many are feeling the hard reality of the loss, for those we loved.

We wish you all a beautiful day of love, and we hope that this post brings beautiful memories to you and your loved ones.

Gregory Harrington

When we heard the newest album from Gregory Harrington, we wanted to once again, work with Mr. Harrington on a very special gift to you, this Valentine’s Day.

Showcasing our love of his talent, and music, while focusing on the album’s lead song “When I Fall in Love” (originally by the late great Nat King Cole).

We knew the album was fantastic, now we needed just the right location was this was key for us. After weighing all of our options, we went with one of the most beautiful and meaningful beacons, of New York City, the World Trade Center.

Paring Gregory Harrington’s love of Violin, with the man who forged forward to rebuild our beloved area after 9/11, Mr. Larry Silverstein, we chose 3WTC. Designed by Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, 3 WTC is instantly recognizable by its iconic “K” brace, the building’s external steel framing, while seamlessly integrating into the triumphant community of World Trade Center architecture.

WTC, downtown New York, is a place of constant reinvention, and Downtown with leaders like Mr. Silverstein, have been raising the bar for NYC neighborhoods for the last 400 years.

Shooting at WTC never gets old, each time we discover something new, or a piece of history comes to light. We worked with a great team, videographer Michael Robayo Production, Photographer Gus Hobbs, and styling and grooming by a long time, and dear friend Christo.  A big thank you to our chair board Dara Mcquillan for making this happen!

We had a chance during the shoot to catch up with Gregory, what he was planing for V-Day, why he wanted to shoot this video, and how his industry is fairing during COVID -19.


Presented by Downtown Magazine New York City, Music performed by Gregory Harrington Director & Editor: Michael Robayo Production: Site B Studios Photographer: Gus Hobbs Styling: Christo Fifth Avenue Wardrobe provided by Reiss Watches provided by Omega Piano provided by Steinway and Sons Location: 3 World Trade Center / Silverstein Properties (79th floor)

DTM Why did you want to make this video
a) What do you hope the viewers will take away from this video? 

GH: I have always had such a special affinity for Downtown Magazine over the years and I wanted to create a work that showcases and combines fashion, music, style, and elegance with that black-tie feel – it just seemed to be a wonderful combination. The more I thought about it, “When I Fall In Love” from my previous album “Without You” was a perfect musical choice to connect it all together. And we worked in association with Omega watches and Reiss clothing to create the look.  I am hoping that viewers can take away that blend of wonderful music in a visually stunning setting where they can sit back for 5 minutes and be transported somewhere else.

DTM: Tell us about your recently released album?
a) how do you create an album?

GH: My current album “Glass Hour” debuted at #3 on the Classical Billboard charts and comprises the music of Philip Glass for violin and orchestra.  I recorded it with conductor Mark Shapiro and the Janacek Philharmonic and reviews have been great. I remember listening to the movie “The Hours” and being enthralled by the score so I wanted to write and create a work for violin and orchestra based on the movie.  It’s such a really beautiful piece and I’m so proud of it.  The album involved years of planning and meticulous dedication as I was the producer of everything from the orchestral parts to licensing and arranging to all the logistics. We had two days to record in the Czech Republic and it was truly fantastic having the sound of the Philharmonic behind you. It is an experience that I will always treasure!

DTM: What does Valentine’s Day mean to you, and being from Ireland, do they celebrate as we celebrate here in the US?

GH: Valentine’s day is a holiday that exemplifies the romance, the love, and the care that you show to those whom you love. I feel that there is very little difference between how it is celebrated here in the US as opposed to in Ireland.  It’s all about showing those qualities to your partner every day and doing a little something extra on Valentine’s Day.

 

Gregory Harrington Steinway & Sons 3WTC

 

DTM: What can we expect coming from Gregory Harrington and his music in 2021?

GH: For 2021, I have changed my focus from live concerts to more online performances.  It will take my industry a long time to get performers successfully back into concert halls where there are full audiences.  Therefore move the focus to online concerts and music videos.  And stay in front of my audience that way.  For the coming year, I’m planning to record some online shows and a Christmas show as well along with a series of music videos based on popular movie themes set in iconic locations around Manhattan.  The is also so much unknown about what lies ahead so I feel being flexible and adapting what presents itself is also important.

DTM: Has COVID affected your work/industry, if so how have you stayed relevant?


GH: As a musician and performing artist, our industry was really hit hard as we rely on full houses to be profitable and earn.  So many are unable to work and the effect will last for most of the ’21 and into ’22.  My last live show was 12 months ago in Amsterdam in the middle of February! Feels like forever! I feel that it’s going to take audiences a long time to regain the confidence in sitting indoors to watch a live performance again.

DTM: Your talent is exceptional, what are your favorite pieces to play and why?

GH: Thank you! There are so many wonderful works and composers – it’s so hard to say. Rather than a specific composer, I prefer to say that I love performing works where I feel I have something individual and personal to communicate to an audience that they might not have heard before. It could range from the Beethoven violin concerto which I adore playing or my arrangement of Nine Inch Nails / Johnny Cash‘s “Hurt” as it has such emotional drive.   Currently, I am loving the music Victor Young created “When I Fall in Love” from the video!

 

Gregory Harrington 3WTC

 

DTM: What are you planning this VDay, for your sweetheart?

That’s a surprise! 🙂

 

GH: Shooting at WTC/Silverstein Properties, was it what you expected, and share some of your favorite events that day?

What a visually stunning location!  Looking out over Manhattan from the 79th floor of 3 World Trade Center gives you such a birds-eye view and special perspective of this wonderful city of New York, out across New Jersey and as far as the eye can see.   A few years ago, I had the beautiful experience of meeting and performing for Mr. Silverstein when he opened The Four Seasons so that was a lovely personal connection for me being in his building beside the stunning vistas that provided the backdrop to create a music video.  There were admittedly so many special moments recording this – every floor to ceiling window on the floor had such a special view of a different area of New York.  From looking down on the Brooklyn Bridge to out across the Statue of Liberty – to call that your “office” for the day was wonderful!

Gregory Harrington 3 WTC

From Downtown New York City, Silverstein Properties, Downtown Magazine, and Gregory Harrington, we wish you a beautiful 2021 Valentine’s Day!

Categories
Featured Lifestyle

9 Foods You Must Try

9 Foods You Must Try
Photo by Daria Shevtsova from Pexels

Our tastebuds are singing. Over the past few months, we made it our mission to try something new, and take a break from the same old routine. We were pleasantly surprised, and we liked it!

 

Here are a few of our favs

 

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, keeping us healthy and energized to start the day. Did you know that breakfast foods vary from each country, France, Spain, and Italy start with a pastry and strong coffee? While Asian country’s breakfast looks more like lunch or dinner, the UK and Australia enjoy a full English breakfast, which includes eggs, sausage, bacon, beans, mushrooms, and cooked tomato. Delicious but after that, I’m ready to take a nap!

Something new for breakfast

I’m not a cereal person, I find myself enjoying cereal in the evening more than morning, but I must say these next four have quickly become my favorite vs my usual cheerios or rice Chex, and I am enjoying cereal for breakfast again.

Over the last 30 years, Nature’s Path has grown to be North America’s largest certified organic breakfast and snack food company with a product line of over 150 cold cereals, granolas, hot oatmeal, waffles, bars, and cookies.

 

Sunrise Crunchy Vanilla, lived up to the brand’s description, a delightful crunchy blend of flakes, puffs, and rice crispies, coated with organic molasses and natural vanilla. Carefully crafted with organic corn, omega-3 rich flax seeds, and ancient grains like buckwheat, quinoa, and amaranth, our cereal has 15g whole grains and 4g of fiber and is certified gluten-free and vegan.

Heritage Flakes, I was a little hesitant, I’m not a fan of spelt, but I must say I was delightfully surprised. Their number one organic cereal, thanks to its healthy ancient grains, with a touch of organic honey and sea salt. These deliciously crunchy flakes were crafted with six ancient grains: KAMUT Khorasan wheat, quinoa, millet, spelt, oats, and barley. Rich, nutty, and flavourful, each hearty bowl comes with 23g whole grains and 5g of plant protein.

Talk about waking up your taste buds, I ate this one separate and also added it to my other cereal bowl. Invigorating turmeric granola with crunchy cashews and powerhouse ingredients turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper, which are known to support anti-inflammatory and blood sugar balancing functions of the body.

We received a sample of this relatively new powder and were floored. I made mine with almond milk, a half banana, and or some fresh berries. Huel Powder v3.0 is a nutritionally complete meal in powdered form. Just mix with water in the free shaker provided and you’re good to go. Huel Powder contains an ideal balance of protein, carbs, essential fats, fiber, all 27 essential vitamins and minerals, phytonutrients, kombucha, pre-and probiotics.

Snacks – when it comes to snacks, you have to choose right or you will blow your caloric intake for the entire day in just one bite.

OK., yes, skeptical for sure, but one bite of Without a Trace, and these little sweet sun-ripened organic dates combine with the tartness of fresh raspberries and a hint of chocolate, did in fact create a powerful bite.
Oh boy, I’ll bet you cannot eat just one! Without A Trace Chocolate Chip cookie, is by far the best ever health cookie I’ve tasted in a very long time. Sometimes you just want to have fun! Our Soft Chocolatey Chip cookie is sweet, chewy, and yummy all in one.

Always in my bag, we get hungry throughout the day, especially if you are like me who swims or bike in the morning and then keep going until 6 pm. Thi delicious chewy mix of gluten-free oats, flaxseeds, and chia seeds combines with the classic flavor of cinnamon and just a hint of sea salt.

Or the chewy combination of gluten-free oats, flaxseed, and chia seeds meets real strawberries and the sweetness of strawberry juice. 3g of fiber makes this bar.

A must-have snack!

 

 

A brand that is catching on quickly. Sprout Living is committed to inspiring health, happiness, and balance in every person by crafting and sharing the purest health products and initiatives. Because of this, everything we make avoids a lot of the unnecessary additives you find in plant nutrition: no gums, no “flavoring” and absolutely nothing synthetic.

 

I am in love with this new Epic Protein, a multi-source, organic protein powder made with powerful whole superfoods sourced from around the world. With no gums, no artificial or “natural” flavoring, and no fillers, it is a cleaner plant protein that tastes better too.

Get your greens with this FD Sprout Mix Broccoli & Kale is a potent blend of broccoli and kale sprouts that is the equivalent of buying fresh sprouts but in a shelf-stable and convenient form.

 

Categories
Beauty Featured Finance Lifestyle Living NYC Wellness

Downtown’s Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide 2020

Downtown's Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide 2020
Andrea Piacquadio Pexels

 

We can all agree that 2020 was a year like no other, and it will go down in history as one of the most difficult collective challenges in our lifetimes. As the hashtag says, #weareinthistogether. No matter your level of income, age, skin color, or which part of the world you live in, we all had to rethink how we get from morning to night, facing challenges like working remotely and DIY beauty regimens.

We are grateful that our favorite brands made 2020 easier for us. We figured out how to get through it, even if it meant that our hair colorist had to drop off a premixed color formula so that our dear life partners (or children) could apply.

It may not have been a pretty sight, but from the creative photos on social media, it certainly came with a large dose of humility and humor.

This year we have decided to honor the brands who were there for our company in our Downtown’s 2020 Ultimate Beauty Gift Guide.

Here are a few of our favs!

 

Supremÿa Eyes at Night. Exceptional night skin care dedicated to revealing the youth of the eyes.

 

 

Supremÿa Cream An exceptional night treatment specifically for dry skin or skin lacking comfort, which targets the visible signs of aging to offer noticeably enhanced rejuvenation.

 

 

Scent Sational gifts from Sisley Paris. Sisley continues the original collaboration with artist Quentin Jones celebrating Izia in a new package inspired by her colorful ‘rock’ universe. Collages of roses, fluorescent ink, and flecks of paint boldly decorate the box. Its delicacy and lightness contrast with the ‘rock’ design of the box and echo the singular rose at the heart of the fragrance.

 

 

A limited-edition holiday bundle of 3 bestsellers from Bali Body, Ultra Dark Self Tan, Face Tan Water & BB Cream, it’s everything you need for the perfect glow. In a festive gift box!

 

 

Roam Slippers

 

 

ROAM slippers and sandals are all about comfort. They have custom-molded footbeds that are pillow soft while completely supporting your feet. The mid-soles are wrapped in neoprene for wicking and breathability, keeping your feet cool. There is also memory foam added to the uppers that allow the shoes to mold and form to your feet – truly creating a hug for your feet.

 

TYME

​Make ​​travel and everyday styling easier, and faster with Tyme. Combining many different size curling irons with a straightener. No more cluttered drawers, cabinets, and suitcases – just one tool.

One of our Publisher’s new FAV!

 

 

 

Joon Saffron Rose shampoo, this gentle conditioner detangles, hydrates, and smoothes hair. Used in traditional Persian beauty rituals for centuries, the “Antioxidant Powerhouse” created by Saffron, Rose, Pistachio and Pomegranate nourish and strengthen the hair strand while restoring elasticity, making your hair look/feel softer, stronger, and healthier.

Persians have used Saffron, Pistachio, and Rose in beauty rituals for centuries. Saffron, a spice worth more than its weight in gold, is used to strengthen hair. Pistachio nourishes and moisturizes for bouncy and smooth hair.

Coming from a haircare background, Shiva and Kayvon Tavakoli spent their entire lives in the salon haircare world. Their father came to the US when he was 17 years old and after moving to Houston, built a successful salon empire and haircare laboratory.

 

 

 

Joanna Vargas, We needed something to help keep our beauty regiment up, as we all worked from home, spas, and salons were closed during the quarantine. For a wide-awake look, with or without concealer, use the Magic Glow Wand to reduce the appearance of puffiness, invigorating your complexion, bringing your glow back.

 

Use it with a serum or mask for an unbelievably soft and radiant look!

 

One of our newest discoveries Deborah Lippman’s, hand and feet moisturizer, trust us, it will change your hands and feet forever. With the hard winter approaching, start now and by spring you will feel like a new person!

Your hands are the first to reveal your age. Keep them guessing with this award-winning cream formulated with shea butter, avocado, and jojoba oil. Winner of Health Magazine’s Healthiest Hand Cream, as voted by leading dermatologists Broad spectrum SPF 25 sunscreen protects from the sun’s UVA and UVB harmful rays Shea butter, Avocado, and Jojoba oil keep hands moisturized Botanical brightening complex helps to even skin tone.

 

 

 

 

Again for the 3rd year in a row, we are including BrooklynBotany. We cannot get through a winter without their scrubs and now new Sweet Almond oil.

This holiday season we sampled their new Blueberry Scrub, all we can say is THANK YOU Brooklyn Botany. Our dry skin feels renewed, and radiant, the winter dry itch is gone.

 

 

Sweet Almond Oil, the perfect name for Brooklyn Botnay’s oil..  sweet it is, very mild, and hypoallergenic. This oil is safe to be used for almost all skin types including sensitive, dry, and oily skin. It can even be used on children and babies skin.

 

Can’t get to St Barth this year, no worries, they bring their delightful products to you. And, just in time for Christmas with Ligne St. Barth

Feel the beauty of the island – surrounded by warmth, a breath of wind cools your cheeks. Sea Breeze embodies the lightness of a tropical summer day: with the deep blue Blue Lagoon shower gel, tingling like a bath in the surf. Try this sun splash, with grapefruit as an invigorating freshness accord. This beguiling Premium Care Oil gives your body, face, and hair, a golden sheen.

 

 

 

We cannot get enough of this brand. Anything they make it superb. We love the new refill pouch. Sustainability is here for Ouai.

We have tried many dry shampoo’s and it can be hit or miss. But not with Ouai’s Super Dry Shampoo. Works every time and does not leave your hair unruly or limp.

 

 

Ready for a private dinner at home for two, or just want to feel sexy? Intensely seductive, Good Girl Eau de Parfum Carolina Herrera’s Suprême reinvents the iconic Good Girl fragrance with a daring new formula. Redefining the emblematic contrast of lights and shadows encourages you to connect with your rebellious side. Grab one for a delicious stocking stuffer.

 

One does not think about body serum. However, we have been using Immunocologie body serum for years. Yes, it does moisturize, repair, and restore. It’s very light to the touch but deeply moisturizes. A dry oil intended for full-body application. We found that after a bath or shower apply, and leave on your skin all day and or night, it’s silky smooth and your skin will feel radiant and restored.

 

 

Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown Give the gift of luxury to your loved one, or maybe the gift you have been looking for yourself. Join Downtown New York’s newest intimate space Club 27 where you can focus on your personal fitness and wellness goals, surrounded by inspiration and without any distractions.

 

Mudras.com

 

With this signature bespoke massage treatment, you will experience the magically unique and tailor-made Body Reset massage. This is considered a secret weapon for many of our #MudrasFam. The BodyReset Technique was developed by Yotam Kafri founder of Mudras.com Holiday special for first-time clients. Get 30% off on your first session!
Mention Downtown Magazine to get your special offer. LIMITED TIME ONLY!

 

 

Get your gift certificate now!

 

For those who are enjoying the sheer pleasure of CDB, these are our picks for the 2020 Holiday Season

 

 

 

Meet our first CBD infused moisturizer specifically formulated for the face. Lord Jones Whole Plant Formula Acid Mantle Repair is a soothing CBD moisturizer formulated to help maintain the acid mantle, support the skin’s moisture barrier, and rebalance the appearance of stressed skin.* Each jar contains 250mg of CBD (<0.3% THC).

 

Treat the CBD purist in your life to a trio of our most popular Lord Jones products gumdrops, body lotion, and Royal Oil.

 

 

 

These premium tinctures contain 500mg of full-spectrum CBD derived from specially-sourced hemp for unparalleled purity and quality. Each dropper delivers approximately 20mg of CBD. Available in two flavors, Orange and Peppermint.

 

 

Her Royal Hempress

Her Royal Hempress skincare collection is defined by synergistic, small-batch blends of CBD and potent botanical actives that have been specially crafted with the highest attention to detail. Created by a generational, social-conscious gardener & mother Emma Spivey, Her Highness uses powerful botanical ingredients to complement the transformative CBD to leave skin feeling naturally radiant and for therapeutic relief. 

Her Highness 

Her Highness is a cannabis lifestyle brand based in New York with a curated collection of cannabis, CBD, and consumption essentials designed with the modern consumer in mind. Her Highness product is thoughtfully designed with the intent of bringing cannabis into a woman’s world, not the other way around. With a dynamic range of stylish, high-quality products for smoking, stress relief, self-care, and pleasure, Her Highness satisfies every cannabis craving.

New Highs CBD

New Highs CBD hopes to enlighten and empower women and men towards the path of an elevated lifestyle utilizing the healing properties of CBD. New Highs products invigorate the mind, body, and soul-lifting up high while remaining non-intoxicating.

“Dr. Kerklaan Therapeutics inspired by his desire to help my patients. In 2013, patients started asking about CBD and their health. He took the opportunity to research, study, and attended conferences in order to confidently provide answers to patients who were asking about the health benefits of CBD. Here are just some of our favorite products.

Deep moisturizing lotion utilizing condensed red ginseng water that strengthens the skin barrier and balances the pH for healthy and luminous skin. Donginbi Red Ginseng. DONGINBI was created in 1899, based on internationally recognized manufacturing company Cheong Kwan Jang’s philosophy of creating Korean red ginseng for external use.

Botanika life has a wide array of products catering to an active and healthy lifestyle.  Improving what already works by bringing in nature’s miracle ingredient CBD.

 

Whatever your plans for this holiday season, stay safe, do not gather in large crowds, think about your loved ones and, wear a mask. We look forward to seeing you in 2021.

 

From our home to yours Happy Holidays!

Categories
Bars Featured Lifestyle Living Music

2020 Gift Guide Downtown’s Editor’s Favorite Wines

Table Design by Joel Robare

The Season for Giving is Upon us

This year will be a bit different but still, the desire to give has not wained.

While jewelry, sweaters, or books may be the classic present, receiving a superb bottle of red or a refreshing sparkling can be just the gift for wine enthusiasts. To help you we’ve rounded up some of our editor’s favorites to include in our holiday gift guide to make any wine connoisseur smile!

Meerlust Rubicon 2015

The Rubicon Stellenbosch, South Africa Vintage: 2015 is showing all of the hallmarks of a great, classic vintage of Rubicon. Incredibly dense purple-ebony core with very slight gradation at the rim. The nose is brooding, dark bramble fruit, cassis, plum, incense, and licorice, it is still very tightly coiled, slowly offering cigar box, crushed stone, and subtle oak spice. On the palate, the wine is concentrated yet restrained with dark fruit flavors of pastille, mulberry, and dark chocolate, all held in an intricate lattice of polished sleek grape tannin. Still very young yet approachable, this Rubicon promises a long future of maturation and enjoyment.

 

2020 Wine Gift Guide

 

Table Design by Joel Robare

 

 

2015 Enate Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2012

Hugely expressive and intense on the nose flaunting red fruit aromas swathed in balsam
and spice. Pleasant hints of phenols and minerals from the Cabernet mingle beautifully with
toasted, creamy, and cocoa nuances from the new oak. Fat, dense, and meaty on the palate with mature and unctuous tannins, which signal excellent capacity for further aging in the bottle. A lingering and mouth-filling finish rounds off the tasting experience.

 

 

Torraccia del Piantavigna Gattinara 2015

Mattia Donna/Beppe Caviola Garnet red in color with a golden rim that develops with aging, the wine has a fine and pleasant nose, with a hint of violets. On the palate, it is dry and harmonious, with a lightly tannic aftertaste.

 

Tenuta di Arceno 2017 Gran Selezione Chianti Classico “Strada al Sasso”

Considered a legendary vintage with its small yields, 2017 produced an intense, concentrated wine with vibrant acidity. The 2017 Strada al Sasso has powerful fruit and incredible depth. On the nose, the wine demonstrates a playful balance of fruit and herbal tones with aromas of ripe cherry, violets, cedar, and herbs jumping out of the glass. The palate follows with flavors of blueberry, vanilla bean, and sweet mint. Soft tannins lead into the finish with tones white pepper tones, black licorice, and the unmistakable Tenuta di Arceno signature of orange peel. A perfect pairing to classic Italian delicacies like wild boar pappardelle, Asiago, Manchego, roasted chicken, and tortellini with Bolognese.

 

 

 

Dry Creek Valley | Sonoma County Inaugural Vintage The texture of the wine, its infinite range of aromas and flavors is all tangled up with soil and climate and history and culture, a spectacular mash-up of people and place, wit and wisdom and everyday life. The Sbragia family has been farming and making wine in DCV for over 100 years. Adam’s great-grandfather came from Tuscany in 1904 and worked in local wineries. In 2006, after 32 years as a wine-master at Beringer Vineyards, Adam’s father, Ed Sbragia, opened the doors to Sbragia Family Vineyards at the northern end of Dry Creek Valley.

 

Le Difese – Intense black fruit aromas and flavors as well as the vanilla and spice of oak in a full-bodied wine with supple tannins. Casual beef dishes such as steaks on the grill or hamburgers. Kobrand Wine & Spirits  Fruit for Le Difese is selected from Tenuta San Guido estate’s younger vines. Fermentation for both varieties takes place on the skins in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. The wine is matured in French and American oak barrels.

 

2020 Sparkling

 

Coppery-orange color. Expressive aromas of strawberry and very ripe wild strawberries. A full-bodied, structured, vinous palate that stays fresh. Length and character define this champagne. https://www.veuveclicquot.com/en-us

 

 

Sterling Blanc de Blancs sparkling wine is a glistening pale straw color in the glass with ribbons of fine bubbles. The aromas of green apple, lemon citrus, pear, and lemon cream are distinctive. We opened the bottle for a gathering recently and was pleasantly surprised, our guests requested its information.

 

Categories
Beauty Featured Finance NYC

Hawa Cosmetics Flawless Coverage

The coverage for female entrepreneurs receive is essential to expanding their impact and to get noticed. Therefore, as we wrap up one of our most difficult years 2020, we thought it fitting to highlight a brand that we feel deserves coverage.

Women from all industry’s, education, and ethnicity, every day are creating new products, start-up businesses, and cutting edge procedures from real estate, to cosmetics. These women are changing the way we view entrepreneurs, shop for new brands, and are showing determination, and fearlessness.

Hawa Cosmetics was created for its namesake, a working makeup artist, and model, with over a decade of being a makeup artist who saw first-hand women’s confusion and frustration at gimmicky products and confusing beauty regimes.

 

DTM: How did you come about creating a cosmetic company/brand?
CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: How I came about creating a cosmetic brand started with me working for major cosmetic companies. To name a few; Clinique, Dermablend, Bobbi Brown, Tom Ford Beauty, Sisley, and a few others that are under the Estée Lauder umbrella. I was a top Makeup artist and selling producer for the color lines. So it gave me an edge on what women were looking for. Which made it easy to create a brand.
DTM: How long have you been in the beauty industry?

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: I’ve been a professional makeup artist for over 20yrs. Best time of my life!

DTM: What makes your brand stand out above the rest and what do you want our readers to know?

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: What makes my brand stand out above the rest is that Hawa Cosmetics is made with quality. I select and create colors that really work on All skin tones. A line created by a working makeup artist who touches and talks to every client about her needs.

DTM: It looks like you’re a New Yorker, how has Covid affected your business? 

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: COVID has affected all businesses. But what I’ve learned is that you must stay open to reinventing yourself. I’ve learned that social media is my key to doing Supreme business.

DTM: If you could change one thing in the cosmetic/beauty industry what would it be?

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: If I could change one thing in the industry it would be Creating a system where makeup artist can have virtue one on one consultations with clients to ensure excellent customer service.

DTM: What’s the best way for consumers to become educated on how cosmetics are made and what they should look for when purchasing cosmetics?

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: The best way for customers to become educated in cosmetics is to utilize your PC. You can google everything today., I personally love YouTube, you receive so many reviews facts, and opinions on cosmetics. I Believe You should look for quality in products. I can not stress this enough. Drug store brands are Stepping up to High-end brands in this category.

DTM: Being a woman of color and selling makeup to different types of skin and color pigment, how difficult is that and is there a difference in the skin? 

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: Being a woman of color selling makeup to all women was easy for me. As I worked for major Cosmetic brands in Bloomingdales, Bergdorf Goodman, Barnes, Neman Marcus, Saks, CosBar, and the Carlyle Hotel. These locations have had me Makeover every woman and man imaginable.

There is a difference in skin tones and texture but that comes with an expert eye.

DTM: When you were a little girl was that something you always played with and dreamed of make-up and beauty? 

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: As a little girl I would always play in my Grandma “Pascuala Vasquez makeup. My grandma RIP was born in the 1920s
I couldn’t wait for the day for me to shave off all of my Natural brows and draw them on with a jet black eyeliner pencil like her. Her vanity table was my dream., Loads of makeup, lipstick, and Perfume.
She was a lady.
DTM: What is all the hype about botanicals and what difference do botanicals make in skincare?

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: The Hype of Botanicals stands true. Botanicals can make promising skincare. Natural Botanicals has anti-aging properties that help calm and firm skin. It can also help with acne, reducing redness and it’s ideal for soothing sensitive skin. There are so many benefits to natural plant extracts.

DTM: We’re thrilled to have you in the print Holiday gift guide for 2020, we have sampled your products and we enjoy them and feel that they’re good solid quality. The coverage is exceptional. Is there anything else you’d like to tell our readers that we have not asked you?

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: We all at Hawa Cosmetics are ecstatic to be in the Holiday Gift Guide for 2020! I am happy that everyone has enjoyed the quality of the products. It means the world to me. I want to thank every woman who has poured into me their concern and need over the years that helped me to create a brand that all women will enjoy. 
“I want to thank the CEO Of Downtown Magazine Grace A. Capobianco for having me in this special issue. I would also like to thank my dear friend Marcia Nakaydo for believing in the brand. We have worked together in this beauty industry for years. Let’s have a wonderful Holiday. Thank you. CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul”
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Business Featured Finance Living NYC

58 WAYS TO SUPPORT LOWER MANHATTAN BUSINESSES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

58 WAYS TO SUPPORT LOWER MANHATTAN BUSINESSES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
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Maybe this year is the year to accept that the 2020 Holiday season will be different.

It’s not that long ago that we made it through the toughest two seasons to spend quarantined, spring, and summer. Is this not the time of the year, that most of us long for? Shedding our heavy winter clothes, and shaking off those dreary blues, not to mention those few extra pounds we put on over the long winter months, snuggled up with cookies, hot cocoa, and scrumptious Roast Beef and Yorkshire pudding?

Wait… that was me I was talking about.

Personally, I think we need to be a little less worried about jumping on a plane to see Grandma and Grandpa, or jetting off to that island paradise just so you can jump in the beautiful piercing blue ocean in that new bikini, or parasail your way over the long white sandy beaches. It’s so overrated!

What’s not overrated is staying the course, thinking about others, do your part, from populating your travel miles with or picking up on your travels the worst virus in our lifetime.

Downtown Alliance compiled 58 Ways to Not Leave Lower Manhattan.

Shopping

Holidays are a little different this year, with many people forgoing big family celebrations in favor of smaller, home-based events. All the more reason, then, to make your homebound holiday even more special.

If you’re sticking around Lower Manhattan, we’ve rounded up some great spots in the neighborhood for seasonal cheer. Here, we’ve included some tasty eateries, eclectic shops, and other local highlights. Note that most of these establishments have been hit hard during the pandemic and could use some extra help these days, so you’ll be giving back as much as you’re getting. Happy holidays!

1. Thai Farm Kitchen

This South Street Seaport staple serves contemporary Thai cuisine from thom kha kai to Panang curry. A tall glass of Sapporo makes for a great addition to the meal. (21 Peck Slip)

2. Adrienne’s Pizza Bar

Pizza maker Nick Angelis’s menu features gourmet Italian cuisine — make sure to try their house specialty, the grandma-style pizza. (54 Stone St.)

3. Babesta

Babesta is an excellent resource for new and seasoned parents alike for the best clothing, learning toys and equipment to raise your bundle of joy. (56 Warren St., Brookfield Place)

4. Black Fox

Kick back with a great cuppa caffeine and an afternoon cookie (trust us) from 70 Pine’s resident coffeeshop. (70 Pine St.)

5. Blue Park Kitchen

This delicious walk-up establishment offers the rare combination of fast-casual convenience and locally-sourced produce, grains and proteins. (70 Pine St.)

6. Luke’s Lobster

Classic lobster rolls, crab rolls, shrimp rolls, and cole slaw are all on offer at the Financial District location of Luke’s Lobster (26 South William Street). The seafood shack is also dishing up lobster bisque and New England clam chowder for colder days, as well as DIY lobster roll kits for those who’d prefer to cook (or look like they’ve cooked, via Instagram) at home.

7. Taim

Taim offers satisfying servings of falafel sandwiches, cauliflower shawarma, sabich, tasty fries and more. (75 Maiden Lane)

8. Wattle Cafe

A lovely independent cafe boasting excellent superfood waffles, organic bites and excellent coffee blends for all flavor profiles. (19 Rector St.)

9. Bowne & Co.

Learn about the origins of letterpress printing in Lower manhattan, take a workshop or purchase unique gift items. (211 Water St.)

10. Brookfield

Brookfield Place covers all of your shopping needs with more than 40 shops ranging from Gucci to Rite Aid. (230 Vesey St.)

11. The Rink at Brookfield Place

The Rink at Brookfield Place is available for corporate outings, private lessons, birthday parties and special events. (230 Vesey St.)

12. Pearl Diner

Paging omelet lovers: Pearl Diner, the 48-year-old Downtown institution at 212 Pearl Street, is now available for in-person service as well as delivery via apps like GrubHub and Seamless.

13. City Acres

City Acres Market is an all-in-one grocery store, caterer and restaurant specializing in the highest quality products, and its beer selection is first-rate. (70 Pine St.)

14. City Blossoms

Whether purchase to-go bouquets or designing an exquisite floral centerpiece, this mother/daughter-run operation will ensure a beautiful arrangement. (62 Trinity Pl.)

15. Crown Shy

The former chef of 11 Madison Park and the Nomad features a menu of plates like Red Snapper Crudo, Grilled Quail and Roasted Short Ribs. (70 Pine St.)

16. CUT by Wolfgang Puck

Residents and visitors alike fancy this chic, award-winning steakhouse with a killer martini bar. Specialties include the popular Japanese Wagyu beef. (99 Church St.)

17. Da Claudio

This longtime neighborhood standby is perfect for a relaxing weeknight meal (p.s. the Bucatini Arrabbiata is awesome). (21 Ann Street)

18. Sant Ambroeus

Beloved Italian restaurant and coffee shop Sant Ambroeus has expanded its New York City presence with a new location in Brookfield Place (200 Vesey Street) — offering up the usual cappuccinos, gelato and homemade pastries, but will also feature some of Sant Ambroeus’ more robust restaurant options including salads, pasta and even a few elegantly prepared seafood and steak options.

19. Eataly NYC Downtown

Eataly’s Italian specialty grocery has you covered with handmade cheeses, fresh pasta, espresso beans, and the finest quality seafood. (101 Liberty St.)

20. fellow barber

fellow barber is not only the ideal spot for a stylish, affordable haircut; it’s also where you’ll find expertly crafted, US-made grooming products. (18 Fulton St.)

21. Fields Good Chicken

Winner, winner chicken dinner (or lunch!) at this fast-casual restaurant dedicated to amazing poultry dishes. (101 Maiden Lane)

22. Fresh Salt

This neighborhood watering hole has been serving up seasonal cocktails and top-notch grub since 2004, back when the Fulton Fish Market was still swinging in the Seaport District. (146 Beekman St.)

23. Gnoccheria

Come hungry, leave extremely satisfied by the pillowy Italian potato classic as well as Neapolitan pizza offerings. (100 Broad Street)

24. Greenwich St. Jewelers

Give yourself extra time to peruse the gorgeous, carefully curated collections of precious metals and gemstones at this family-owned jewelry store. (64 Trinity Pl.)

25. Bombay’s

Though Bombay’s Indian Cuisine has a small menu, owner Sonal Vyas and staff work hard to ensure that all its offerings are delicious and made with lots of love — from crispy samosas to tender pieces of chicken marinated in yogurt and spices — and it’s also reasonably priced for the neighborhood.

26. Suited

When business partners Andrew Fazio and Wilson Johnson teamed up to create Suited, Lower Manhattan’s newest cafe, it was with the understanding that you can find good sandwiches or a good cup of coffee all over New York City, but not always at the same place. That dilemma has now been solved. (45 John Street)

27. La Parisienne

A lovely French cafe tucked away on Maiden Lane offers excellent dishes for breakfast, lunch, happy hour and weekend brunch. (9 Maiden Lane)

28. Le District

Le District has all of your grocery needs, from daily essentials to French-inspired fare. (225 Liberty St.)

29. Leo’s Bagels

“Leo’s” stands for the classic bagel breakfast “Lox, eggs & onions” — recommend trying their specialty as well as other bagel, cream cheese spreads and smoked fish offerings. (3 Hanover Square)

30. Mad Dog & Beans

Located in a landmark building, Mad Dog serves up traditional Mexican cooking that includes fresh guacamole and potent margaritas. (83 Pearl St.)

31. Brooklyn Beef ‘N Cheese

Ironically, Brooklyn Beef ‘N Cheese isn’t in Brooklyn, but what it sells is a classic Brooklyn roast beef sandwich, the likes of which you’d generally have to go all the way to Coney Island to get. (upstairs at City Acres Market, 70 Pine Street)

32. magic mix juicery

Nutritious breakfast bowls, filling lunches, snacks and — yes — fresh-to-order juices to keep your body happy and healthy. (102 Fulton St.)

33. Salon DeLouie

Salon DeLouie has been operating in the neighborhood for seven years, offering up cuts and colors to the busy workers of Lower Manhattan through good times and bad. And even through the COVID era, the salon is sticking to its most popular classics like coloring, highlights and cuts for all genders.

34. Martin Busch Jewelers

Longtime independent jewelry shop offers excellent options for all price ranges, original designs and watch repairs. (85 John St.)

35. McNally Jackson

Get lost in the vast selection of McNally’s beloved Seaport location. (4 Fulton St.)

36. Mysterious Bookshop

Explore the thrilling titles at this longtime niche bookstore dedicated to noir and the art of mysterious happenings. (58 Warren St.)

37. Neapolitan Express

Neapolitan Express is the perfect spot for organic, authentic pizza that’s good for you and the environment. (40 Wall St.)

38. The Greens at Pier 17

A reservation for The Greens’ seasonal rooftop dining concept nets you your own 10-person-max rooftop cabin, replete with banquette seating, a virtual fireplace, electric heating and delicious seasonally-themed dishes like mushroom risotto, hot smoked toddies, mulled cider and chipotle beef stew.

39. Casa Taqueria

When you need some flavorful takeout, this spicy standby at 40 Gold Street will never let you down.

40. Only Nails

Only Nails offers a selection of 300+ colors for their special dipping powder gel manicure and more than 400 colors for a gel manicure/pedicure. (86 Nassau St.)

41. One World Observatory

Gain a new perspective of our beautiful city from the top of One World Trade Center. (285 Fulton St.)

42. Petropolis

Spoil your four-legged BFF with organic snacks, adorable toys and grooming services at this doge palace. (91 Washington St.)

43. Poster Museum

Philip Williams’s gargantuan in-store collection boasts colorful prints, vintage posters and unique typographical art. You could spend days in here. (122 Chambers St.)

44. primp

Glow up each day with blowouts, makeup, massages and curated products at this Seaport District salon. (142 Beekman St.)

45. Proof

PROOF Coffee Roasters not only makes their coffee from ethically-sourced, locally-roasted beans. They also deliver! (65 Nassau St.)

46. Pure Liquid Wine & Spirits

A knowledgeable staff will help you pair the perfect spirit to any event at this inviting wine shop located in Westfield World Trade Center. (Westfield, South Concourse, Balcony Level)

47. Sauce & Barrel

Sauce & Barrel takes its name from the bar’s barrel aged cocktail program and has a menu that offers more than 15 pizzas. (97 Washington St.)

48. Schilling

Schilling’s menu is a blend of Mediterranean and Austrian dishes that features wiener schnitzel, spaetzle, braised lamb and more. For dessert, the strudel can’t be beat. (109 Washington St.)

49. Spa services at The Four Seasons New York Downtown

New Yorkers in need of rest and relaxation after months of lockdown can unwind at the Four Seasons New York Downtown, as the hotel’s menu of services from manicures to immune-boosting treatments are all be available.

50. Springbone Kitchen

Stay healthy all year with Springbone’s nutrient-rich bone broth, as well as other organic dishes. (74 Pearl St.)

51. Stone Street Tavern

Stone Street Tavern attracts diners looking for hearty American fare and a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. (52 Stone St.)

52. Temple Court

Tom Colicchio’s excellent farm-to-table, American-style restaurant is set within the beautiful atrium and cozy corners of The Beekman Hotel. (5 Beekman St.)

53. Caravan Uyghur Cuisine

Caravan serves Chinese homestyle dishes in a cozy space, and believe us when we tell you that the Laghman noodles are so satisfying. (200 Pearl St.)

54. Stout NYC

If this 90 John Street staple isn’t tempting enough to frequent for their generous pours, consider their signature Stout Steak Sandwich to soak up all that sud.

55. The Tuck Room

The Tuck Room serves up exceptional contemporary plates for lunch and dinner, as well as early bird and late-night specials. (11 Fulton St.)

56. Cowgirl Seahorse

Don’t forget cocktails to-go when you order delivery from Cowgirl SeaHorse: In addition to its reliably reliable bloody marys during brunch, the Seaport District darling offers frozen margaritas in a sanitized mason jar inside a frozen food bag — so they’ll be delivered just as icy old as they come if you’d get ‘em straight from the bar. (259 Front Street)

57. Westfield World Trade Center

Westfield World Trade Center is home to all the stores and art installations you could ever imagine. (185 Greenwich St.)

58. Yoga carE

YogaCare was created to facilitate this transformation in becoming the best version of yourself – permanently — with several online programs that complement the mind, body, and soul in our journey towards each other.

Downtown Alliance 

Lead photo of Stone Street by Marzena Manganaro