Ketel One Botanical Spritz Kicks Off Spritz Season with Floral Visionary Maurice Harris

May 23, 2022

Ok, it’s offically time for Spring cocktails. You know, that refreshing light mix of herbs, fruit and just the right touch of alcohol?  Enter: The Ketel One Botanical Spritz .

Here’s the perfection part: This line has no carbs, no sugar, no artificial flavors or sweeteners; and with only three simple ingredients and 73 calories per glass, there’s no need to sacrifice on quality or overcomplicate your cocktail.

Spring and summer entertaining just got a little easier—and more stylish—with a limited-edition collaboration from Ketel One Botanical and Los Angeles-based floral artist Maurice Harris.

Launching this week on TheBar.com, the Botanical Spritz-inspired collection features exclusive preserved floral bouquets by Harris, alongside custom-designed decorative towels, and other on-trend items like glassware, cocktail accessories, and more—all to ensure seasonal hosting is a breeze.

Dubbed the Spritz into Summer Collection, the edit includes an array of offerings—some original and some hand-selected—that are inspired by the unique flavor profiles of each award-winning varietal of Ketel One Botanical: Cucumber & Mint, Grapefruit & Rose, and Peach & Orange Blossom. Bookending the exclusive compilation are items designed by Harris himself, including elegant preserved floral arrangements, and a trio of cocktail towels bearing bespoke patterns that bring the groundbreaking product lineup to life. Equal parts vibrant and functional, these accessories provide an artistic pop of color to any entertaining space, whether it be a kitchen, outdoor patio, or home bar. Additional items in the collection include colored wine glasses from Estelle Colored Glass, rose-shaped ice molds, cocktail picks, and bowls perfect for showcasing garnishes for the Ketel One Botanical signature serve, the Botanical Spritz.

The Ketel One Botanical Spritz allows everyone to enjoy delicious effervescence with low-lift required from the at-home bartender. Truly immersive, seasonal sips have never been easier, with the only necessary ingredients being a chosen Ketel One Botanical varietal, soda water, and a fresh fruit or herb garnish. Simply build in a wine glass over ice and delight guests at with time to spare for the best part of hosting—relaxing and connecting with friends. For on-the-go occasions, Ketel One Botanical offers a similar version of its signature cocktail in an equally delightful, canned format.

The partnership reflects the commitments Ketel One Botanical and Maurice Harris have made towards craftsmanship and artistry, with Harris expressing; “I’m so excited to be able to give each of the spirits a personality and translate that into a sensorial experience. At my floral studio—and with everything I do—I aim to inspire joy, creativity, and individuality. Finding that same passion in a like-minded partner is what makes collaborations like this all the more fun and fruitful.”

“We’re so thrilled to see Ketel One Botanical further come to life through Maurice Harris’s floral creations. We see this collaboration as the perfect launch into our biggest Spritz Season yet,” says Ketel One Director, Olivia Kupfer. “Ketel One Botanical fits so seamlessly into any occasion that calls for a cocktail, especially as we enter the warmer months, and where consumers are looking for something more exciting than a glass of white wine.”

For anyone looking for a stylish upgrade to at-home seasonal entertaining or truly wow with their next host gift, the Spritz into Summer Collection is a one-stop-shop to elevate your gifting experience with gorgeous blooms alongside the perfectly curated hosting suite, all of which inspires fun at every step.  Items in the collection, with creations and curations by Maurice Harris and Ketel One Botanical range from $8 to $247. The collection will be available starting May 19th at TheBar.com when Harris will host a live shopping event on the website. Consumers who are interested in tuning in can RSVP at https://live.thebar.com. For more information and cocktail inspiration, visit @ketelonebotanical and @bloomandplume.

Also! Check out this limited-edition shoppable edit on TheBar.com will feature custom bouquets and cocktail towels alongside an elevated home entertaining curation…

Look at this image of a joyous Maurice enjoying the cucumber spritz with the Cucumber Mint botanical!

Ingredients: 

Yields 1 Serving*

  • 1.5 oz Ketel One Botanical Varietal
  • 3 oz Sparkling Water
  • Garnish with your choice of fresh fruit or herbs

Method:

  • Combine your favorite Ketel One Botanical varietal, sparkling water and garnish in a wine glass over ice.

About Ketel One Botanical

Ketel One Botanical is a first-of-its-kind spirit made from vodka distilled with real botanicals and infused with natural fruit and botanical essences. Made with 100% non-GMO grain, this 30% ABV spirit is an exceptionally smooth, fresh-tasting drink with no carbs, no artificial flavors, no added sugar and no artificial sweeteners. Ketel One Botanical is available nationwide in three varietals: Peach & Orange Blossom, Cucumber & Mint, and Grapefruit & Rose, at your local spirits retailer for a suggested retail price of $24.99 per 750ml bottle. For more information please visit www.ketelonebotanical.com.

KETEL ONE BOTANICAL.  Made With Vodka Distilled With Real Botanicals And Infused With Natural Flavors. 30% Alc/Vol. © Double Eagle Brands, B.V. Imported by Ketel One USA, Aliso Viejo, CA.  Per 1.5 oz.: 73 Cals, 0g Carbs, 0g Protein, 0g Fat

JW MARRIOTT DESERT SPRINGS RESORT & SPA LAUNCHES GARDEN COLLABORATION WITH LILY KWONG

May 13, 2022

JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa debuts a pioneering herb garden envisioned and planted by renowned landscape designer Lily Kwong as part of the brand’s JW Garden program. Rooted in Marriott family tradition, the JW Garden is inspired by founder J. Willard Marriott who took daily nature walks, as well as his wife Alice, who grew fruits, vegetables and herbs for her legendary Sunday night dinners.



Lily Kwong, whose reverence for nature comes to life through her breathtaking botanical installations, is the founder of Studio Lily Kwong, a next-generation landscape design studio with a mission to reconnect people to nature. JW Marriott is guided by similar principles, with a commitment to mindfulness that allows guests to be present in mind, nourished in body and revitalized in spirit – pillars that directly align to the JW Garden experience. This was the first time Studio Lily Kwong has built gardens with herbs at their core and the result is a trio of traditional kitchen gardens with a twist, currently growing at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa and JW Marriott Essex House New York.



At JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, Kwong and her team were inspired by the diverse landscape of the California desert, using native plants and edible herbs chosen for their therapeutic properties. With organically-shaped garden beds that morph into hidden seating, the garden features peaceful walking paths and shade trees to mitigate the desert heat, inviting guests to rest and reflect.

“An herb garden is a beautiful portal to reconnect us back to the land and our senses,” said Lily Kwong. “Our JW Garden projects were designed to honor traditional kitchen gardens, but Studio Lily Kwong’s artistic approach to plant life adds unique and unexpected dimensions to each project. We are thrilled that JW Marriott guests will not only enjoy our gardens’ beauty, but also their bounty. Our greatest aspiration is that our work might inspire some guests to go home and grow their very own herb garden.”


For the JW Desert Springs garden, plants that are drought tolerant and native to the desert ecology were carefully chosen, including native sages and pollinator-friendly flowers. The garden features a peaceful olive grove walking path and a planting palette of endemic sages, desert marigold, milkweed and wildflowers to provide habitat and ecosystem support to fauna and insects. Sage is a signature herb along with Rosemary, Prickly Pear and Olive Trees. Lily’s thoughtful selection of herbs intermixed with local plants offer a multi-sensory space for guests to enjoy moments in nature. Studio Lily Kwong incorporated sustainable practices, including the use of repurposed, low-emission materials such as stucco and ceramic garden labels made from natural ingredients; water-conserving techniques such as drip irrigation and mulching; the integration of gravel as a porous ground cover for healthy water flow and the omission of spray pesticides and fungicides common in commercial gardens.


Providing a thoughtful and dynamic experience, while also supporting the hotel’s culinary programs, Kwong and her team centered each JW Garden around aromatic herbs. The property’s newly-appointed Executive Chef, Eric Theiss, will be sourcing ingredients and inspiration from the California native and edible-forward JW Garden for recipes, cocktails, oils and more. New offerings include Barramundi with Celery Root & Sage Lemon Sauce, Himalayan Mint & Amelda Chutney and Blueberry & Sage-infused Cocktails & Mocktails. The garden will feature in some of the hotel’s family-friendly programming, including as a must-see destination on the popular daily nature walks.

To further honor the collaboration and tie back to the mission of the JW Garden program, JW Marriott will donate to one of Lily’s favorite charitable organizations in each destination.  Mojave Desert Land Trust was selected as a charitable partner for JW Desert Springs Resort & Spa, an organization whose mission is to protect the Mojave Desert ecosystem and its scenic and cultural resource values. The donation will provide fourteen growing benches for a shade house, education signage and support the growth of 1,200 plants annually.

“There is a synergy that exists between JW Marriott’s point of view on well-being and Lily Kwong’s passion for bringing people back to nature,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “Our JW Garden program invites guests to enjoy serene spaces and find balance while staying with us – the garden instantly acts as a respite for the mind and spirit and later nourishes the body through its gifts. Lily is further elevating the JW Garden experience and we cannot wait for guests to enjoy her vision.”



The Gift of Green

Both Lily and JW Marriott hope the JW Garden inspires guests to plant a garden of their own and have created an Herb Garden Kit Curated by Studio Lily Kwong for JW Marriott featuring: Halden Garden heirloom Thyme, Mint and Oregano seeds; Kanso planters made of upcycled rice husk, bamboo fibre and wheat husk waste; JW Marriott chef-crafted recipe cards; and a journal collaboration with poet Mia Moretti. Studio Lily Kwong chose these powerful herbs as they grow perennially, meaning when transplanted into the ground, they will grow back every season for an endless bounty. The Herb Garden Kit is available through Curated by JW on Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques, a collection of online retail stores selling exclusive bed, bedding, fragrance, and other bespoke items from a number of the leading hospitality company’s 30 extraordinary hotel brands.

Best Nicotine Products for Smokers in LA

May 12, 2022

No one smokes anymore right?

Smoking isn’t allowed in the majority of places in Los Angeles. The smoking prohibition ordinance by the LA City Council disallows the use of smoking devices—even electric ones like vape pens—in smoke-free areas. This means that you can only smoke in your household or in designated smoking spaces.

However, all is not lost for nicotine consumers in the City of Angels. There are alternative ways to consume nicotine that don’t require cigarettes. What’s better is that many of these are available within the city, so you won’t have to search far and wide just to get your dose of nicotine. With that said, here are the best nicotine products in LA:

Rogue Nicotine Pouch

Nicotine pouches are small bags that are placed between your lip and gum. The nicotine is then absorbed into your system, satisfying your cravings without the need to light a cigarette. When you buy a Rogue Nicotine Pouch you are getting a smoking alternative that is made with clean and sugar-free ingredients. The pouches come in 3 mg and 6 mg varieties, which allows users to experiment with what works best for them. They have classic flavors like spearmint and peppermint, but also more unique ones such as mango and berry.

Because these pouches are small, they’re discreet enough to use in places like clubs or restaurants—no one will even notice that it is in your mouth. They’re perfect for when you’re on the go.

Lucy Nicotine Gum

Unlike ordinary gum, nicotine gum is slowly chewed so the nicotine can slowly release inside your mouth. You’ll know when it’s working when you feel a tingling sensation. Purchase Lucy’s Nicotine Gum for optimal taste, texture, and a quick nicotine release. There are several flavors to choose from including pomegranate, mint, and espresso.

Since they’re packed and shaped like ordinary gum, other people won’t suspect anything if you’re conscious of that. They’re easy to use, too, so you can have them while you’re out having fun and socializing in the city.

Habitrol Nicotine Transdermal Patch

Not to be confused with a nicotine pouch, these act like stickers for your skin that deliver nicotine to your bloodstream. They’re designed to be worn for long periods, making them perfect for busy bees and partygoers alike who may not have time to use other nicotine products. The Habitrol Nicotine Patches can be worn for a full 24 hours. They’re opaque as well, so you won’t have to worry about them peeking through your clothes or being too noticeable when you’re all dressed up.

These are worn for a full day, so reusing them is a big no. This might cause you to experience issues like nausea and weakness from over wearing.

Nicorette QuickMist Spray

Nicotine mouth sprays are fast-acting and straightforward to use. One spray is normally equivalent to one stick, so they’re a quick way to satisfy your cravings. It’s a hassle-free option for when you’re in a public place.

The Nicorette QuickMist Spray works in 30 seconds, giving you relief immediately. This also means that you don’t have any waste to take care of until the bottle is empty, so you can go on with your day as soon as you get your nicotine fill. Its packaging is also sleek and compact, perfect for bringing it around wherever you go. To use this alternative, simply spray under your tongue or inner cheek.

With smoking being banned in several places in LA, get your hands on these nicotine alternatives for your convenience and pleasure. If you enjoyed this article, and are looking for alternative cannabis products you should check out our other piece called ‘Celebrating Plant Medicine on 4.20’

VSOTO Skin: Luxury Skincare For All!

May 6, 2022

I fell in love with VSOTO Ageless Exotic Glow Crème when it was applied during my facial at OleHenriksen recently. I was thrilled to try the rest of line and sharing below all the goodies from this line.

For too long, luxury spa skincare has been reserved for just the privileged few. At VSOTO, they are on a mission to create inclusive and intentional skin rituals that deliver the decadence of a $600 treatment to your bathroom counter. 

Their products are formulated for all people, no matter your gender, skin type, or skin tone. Behind every formula is a simple creed: revolutionary beauty experiences are powered by nature, made for everyone, and created to bring joy to your everyday routines.

With VSOTO you get professional spa results at home. Every product is a spa treatment in a jar, pairing nature’s most precious botanicals and exotic essential oils with science-backed actives to transform your skin.

VSOTO Ageless Exotic Glow Crème – $125 

The ultimate anti-aging moisturizer for that post exotic vacation glow! 

This is the ultimate anti-aging crème. Infused with exotic essential oils and powerful actives, this crème will give you that post exotic vacation glow. Helps to visibly plump, firm and provide deep hydration. Skin is left looking luminous and restored.

VSOTO Calming Cloud Crème – $95  

Restores sensitive skin leaving it softer, smoother and hydrated!

This velvety-rich crème helps restore sensitive skin, leaving it visibly softer, smoother, and hydrated. Packed with calming essential oils and powerful actives, this nurturing treatment soothes redness and helps to renew healthy looking skin.

VSOTO Hydrating Glow Crème – $90

Eliminates dryness, replenishes skin’s moisture and minimizes wrinkles!

This luxurious crème works to eliminate dryness, deeply replenish skin’s moisture and minimize the look of fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. Packed with hydrating essential oils and powerful actives, this treatment crème will leave skin feeling replenished, supple and soft.

VSOTO Purifying Transformation Crème – $90

Delivers purification, light exfoliation while hydrating skin!

This multi-tasking crème delivers purification, light exfoliation and pore refining benefits, all while deeply hydrating without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Packed with balancing essential oils and powerful actives, this treatment crème will leave skin feeling clear, soft and with a gorgeous glow.

VSOTO is paraben-free, cruelty-free, and made in the U.S.!

About the Founder of VSOTO: Vance Soto

“Coming from a working-class Latino family, I got my start in the spa industry like a lot of people with humble beginnings: wiping sweat off tanning beds at my local salon when I was in high school. But what started with a not-so-glamorous job led me to my professional calling. As a spa manager, I designed treatments for some of the largest day spas in California and ran a medical facility with the latest lasers, chemical peels, and injectable treatments. After becoming a spa owner, I traveled around the world to study everything from time-honored treatments to cutting-edge medspa technology. Today, my luxury face spa in LA is an oasis beloved by the world’s most recognizable faces for its highly innovative treatments. 

VSOTO is the result of everything I’ve learned over two decades of studying spa culture: a deep commitment to clean and natural ingredients, expertise in spa technology, and my personal belief that taking care of your skin is easier when you have products you look forward to using every single day.”

Vance has been featured in the press via Huffington Post, INC., Mental Floss + many more!  

A Revisit To OleHenriksen Face/Body Spa

May 4, 2022

I had such a lovely spa day at LA’s classic, OleHenriksen Face/Body Spa – a legendary staple on the Sunset Strip since 1975. If you’re looking for a day-vacay in the city, take a few hours and retreat into total relaxation. I also left with some excellent skincare, VSOTO – more on that soon!

The Spa is hailed for its unique, indulgent and transformational treatments which attract
Hollywood’s A-list and elite, including Charlize Theron, Madonna, Naomi Campbell, Halle
Berry, Katy Perry, Jessica Alba, Matthew McConaughey, and Hugh Jackman, to name just
a few.

The OleHenriksen Face/Body Spa is Los Angeles’ most innovative well-being sanctuary. With
an emphasis on original, groundbreaking skin and body services, the Spa was the first to
introduce microdermabrasion on the West Coast, and the only destination in Los Angeles
to offer sensorial ritual bathing experiences, immersing you in Moroccan-inspired liquid luxury. From luxurious wet rooms to specialty and traditional massages, at the Spa, you
enter a temple of pure relaxation and tranquility housing the most state-of-the-art, advanced
equipment for complete skin, mind, and body transformations.

Located in: Sunset Plaza
Address: 8622 Sunset Blvd Suite A, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Products and Services: olehenriksenspa.com
Phone: (310) 854-7700