12.18.2009

where are we?

Real Word. Magazine Inaugural Issue can be found at:

Barnes & Nobles - Ala Moana

Vim n' Vigor

Hilo Hatties - nimitz

OLA at Turtle Bay Resort

Adoracion Boutique - Manoa Marketplace

Red Ginger Cafe and Giftshop - Manoa Marketplace

Bestsellers - downtown

pick up a copy now!!

11.30.2009

new adventures.

With the launching of our magazine officially underway, I just wanted say THANK YOU to everyone who has been a part of this amazing new adventure for me. THANK YOU to all of the contributors for our first issue and future ones. Without you guys our magazine wouldn't be real. Most of all THANK YOU to our team, Cheryl and Fred DeAngelo and Doris Bitonio. I am truly blessed to be amongst such individuals whom are so positive and whom believe in me. Its a nice change to actually be recognized, when I am so often complacent about what I do. I know that I am so shy and quiet that no one usually understands me right off the bat, but the things I design, draw, paint, photograph, and even wear, are really my voice and means of expression. And I am so happy to be a part of a family that is truly that. We are all creative in one way or another and are headed by a mother that fully supports what we do in life. I really couldn't ask for more. =)

This magazine is not only a great experience for my talents but also a great experience for my persona and character, which at my age is usually in question and on the road to discovery.

So I look at this as a journey, an adventure. Just like how the people in our magazine will write about experiences they have had, these are vital things that I will one day be able to share with others.

CHEERS!

THANK YOU EVERYONE!

-Chris

10.22.2009

The Inaugural Issue

I can't believe our inaugural issue will be going to press in just THREE days!! It has been an incredible journey up to this point- I have learned so much and met so many wonderful people- and this is just the beginning.

I've reviewed the magazine's layout over a hundred times now and the amazing thing is that i'm able to find something new each time- another detail in an image, a different perspective on a story, something else that makes me smile from ear to ear.

From a haiku written by a 5-year old to artwork done by an accomplished chef, the inaugural issue shows that creativity exists in all of us. It promises to make you laugh, cry, wonder, appreciate your surroundings and the people that are in your lives. It will inspire you to dream.

The talented artists, writers and photographers that have contributed their work to our inaugural issue are listed below. I am so grateful that they have shared their gift with us and cannot wait to share it with all of you.


Mahalo piha.


- Cheryl



Alice Inoue
Andre Davis
Andrea Santos
Brandon Tabiolo
Chef Eric Leterc
Cris Bay
Debbie Friedrich
Derek Glaskin
Dr. George "Bud" Antonelis
James Lloyd
Justin White
Kat Reeder
Kaylee Osbun
Kealoha
Lana Antonelis
Malia Johnson
Project Focus Hawaii
Rita Coury
Ryan Higa
Shawn Ching
Ulu Art

9.22.2009

That's huge.

"Ooh, the economy is so bad right now. Are you sure this is the right time?"
"A magazine? Will you make it? Who will advertise?"
"You already have the restaurant, the boutique, a husband and a two-year-old. How can you manage?"

I've heard a hundred comments and questions like these since revealing my plan of Real Word. Most of the time I smile and think to myself, "just watch- you'll see." But I must admit, on some days, those comments get to me. I begin second guessing myself. "What if it fails?"

I've been through this before when setting up our other businesses. This time my plan is no different: surround myself with positive people and great energy. After all, who enjoys being around cynics that complain about situations but never do anything to make it better?

True, there's a lot of sad stories in the news lately. People are down, morale is at an all-time low. What could I do to make it better? It may sound elementary, but the idea of the magazine was born because I wanted to put happy thoughts out in the universe. I wanted people to feel good again. It was that simple.

Just in my circle of friends and family, I get to see photos of smiling faces and trees that sway calmly in the wind. I read poetry of journeys to faraway places to remind me that nothing is out of my reach and I listen to stories of tenderness, hope and gratitude, even in time of unspeakable grief. I know there are people, just like me, that want to spread goodness.

Each issue of Real Word is a collection of positive thoughts. It is a venue for everyday people to showcase their creativity, an opportunity for someone to see their work published, when they never thought it could be possible. It is a celebration of respect, honor, pride, philanthropy and gratitude.

In the past few weeks, I have had the priviledge of viewing amazing pieces of work from people that have shared so much of themselves. I am very grateful to be a part of this. And they are, too.

"Thank you so much for this opportunity."
"Are you sure those images are good enough? Really?"
"Writing my thoughts down was like much needed therapy for my soul."

Those are the comments that I hold on to. Those are the comments that keep me going. I feel like I've already succeeded. And if at least one piece in Real Word makes someone smile or appreciate this beautiful world that we live in a little bit more- that's HUGE.