Many film festival goers and celebrity gawkers look forward to the star gazing such events bring to the host city. Premiere screenings and promotional obligations promise to bring any number of famous personalities, presenting the chance for an in-person glimpse, autograph or perhaps even selfie. It’s quite obvious what the public gets in exchange for their time and/or money, but what do the stars have to look forward to when they attend these events? Talking to press and dressing to impress can be exhausting – therefore in their “off-hours,” they’re invited to attend various gift lounges. These conveniently stationed rooms offer a variety of new, useful and/or delicious products and services for celebs to enjoy… and if they’re wont, to mention to their friends and followers. The annual Tastemakers Lounge is definitely one of the top events in this category and we had a chance to preview this year’s offerings.
In spite of being presented by Krispy Kreme Canada, the prominent donut makers are not coming out with a new, low-fat version of their yummy pastries — because let’s face it, the flavour is in the fat. However, they are supplying a much-needed sugar and carb fill-up to all attendees. In addition to their original glazed donut, they’ve made a special TIFF-themed treat in the form of a chocolate-glaze sprinkled with popcorn. And for that extra caffeine boost to get everyone through the rest of their busy day, they have their specially branded coffee, hot or iced.
The themes of this year’s lounge are definitely relaxation and revitalization. Consequently, there are four stations intended to further these goals. Visitors can put-on or touch-up their faces at the Tweezerman brow + makeup bar, featuring a professional makeup artist. A selection of the company’s latest aesthetic accessories are also on display, including the new rose-coloured and gun metal travel kits, and complete men’s line. Next up is hair styling by Salon Dew, offering quick styling touch-ups to add a little oomph or curl to weather-beaten hair. Then hop on over to CND‘s nail station for a manicure and while that dries, sit down for an invigorating massage session with Dr. Liza of [the fix] chiropractic + massage. And don’t skip the cooling cream because it works wonders on those aching muscles even after her magic fingers have completed their work.
Melissa Milakovic, designer and founder of Love Like Red greeting cards, is hosting a small artist corner where she works on one of her beautiful, hand-drawn designs for her line of cards and prints. Her business model is designed on giving people the opportunity to share a little piece of art at an affordable price, but it’s obvious there’s also a lot of heart that goes into each illustration. It’s quite impressive in that she works on a larger creation suitable for a print, but then fragments and repurposes it for her smaller products.
This warm weather hasn’t inspired a lot of sock wearing, but fall is around the corner and McGregor Socks wants everyone to be prepared with their new line of designer socks. For the outdoorsy-type — or just cold-blooded — they’re promoting the Weekender, which is their take on the classic cabin sock and comes in either wool or cotton for those chilly winter nights. However not forgetting they’re more stylish, socially-conscious clients, McGregor is also highlighting their upcoming Movember socks, featuring the classic moustached-logo. Once released, every pair purchased will result in $1 donation to the foundation.
And last but not least is a Tastemaker’s favourite — Sorel. Not just for winter anymore, they are proud to present their fall selection of fashionable men’s and women’s footwear. Removing the insulation and adding some flair, these shoes and boots are meant to look hot – not feel hot. Practical, comfortable and durable leather designs make these a must-have for everyone who ever wished looking good didn’t have to be so painful. The women’s wedges are great for extended wear and the men’s short boots are perfect with any attire. It’s hard to believe Sorel is leading the way in voguish footwear, but everyone who’s ever worn a pair will be a sworn believer.
Of course everyone receives a Guess? tote gift bag of these sponsored goodies to take home. And since no film experience is complete without popcorn, there’s also a full-sized bag of Indulge Gourmet Kettle Corn to enjoy at the next screening.
These lounges are meant to give its visitors a break from the constant hustle-and-bustle, as well as create a buzz around the featured products. Based on what we’ve seen, I don’t think this year’s selections will have a problem with supplying either.
