Pocket Full of Posies

When one thinks of floral arrangements, stale bouquets and drooping flowers might come to mind. Not at City Blossoms. With nary a carnation nor baby’s breath in sight, this city chic boutique has re-imagined the traditional style of arrangements. European in its roots, City Blossoms specializes in unique and avant-garde arrangements, bold compositions and striking color palates. Not only is close attention paid to the overall aesthetic of the arrangement, but also to the beauty of the individual blossom as well. A Manhattan staple for over 25 years, the floral design studio just opened a new location in the Financial District, making architectural arrangements accessible to all. Talk about coming up roses!

On Top of the World

Like an international summit of glamour and grace, last month the 17th annual Top Model of the World Pageant was held in Dortmund, Germany. Forty-three delegates representing the world’s most beautiful women competed for the sought-after title. Representing the Philippines, our very own Christi McGarry was there to claim a spot as a top fifteen semi-finalist. After a ten-day whirlwind tour of the country’s landmark destinations and events, the internationally broadcasted two-hour competition was finally kicked off with eveningwear and followed by an eye-catching swimsuit portion. In the end, it was Carolina Rodriguez of Columbia who was bestowed with the sash of honor, but here at New York, Christi wins the vote of Choice!

Congratulations, Christi!

Choice T's: Anything but Plain and White

What’s black, white, and awesome all over? The Choice t-shirts, of course! These fitted shirts are made of super soft cotton, making them so cozy, it’s hard to take them off. As our lucky staff members know, they’re the ideal topper for anytime that comfort is key. The classic red and white Choice logo stands out against the black burnout background and makes a statement no matter what they are paired with. Like a secret handshake, anytime you're out and about and spot one of our gems, you'll be sure to recognize a member of the Choice family. With these t-shirts, Choice Productions gets around the city!

Straight from the Cow's Mouth

Now that spring has finally sprung, here at Choice, we’ve started thinking about new beginnings and the first place we’re starting is healthier and fresher eating. That means salads, green juices, and wheat grass shots abound. For the ultimate experience to jump-start local and organic eating habits, visit Blue Hill at Stone Barns, a four-season farm located 30 miles north of New York City, in the Hudson Valley. Here, the farm strives to create a consciousness about everyday food choices and utilize their adjacent restaurant to do so. The “Farmer’s Feast”, a daily-updated list of their best locally sourced ingredients, is presented to guests in lieu of a menu to choose from. Landlocked in the city? You can still get that breathtaking farmstand experience by visiting their Greenwich Village restaurant.

Now that’s farm fresh!

That Papa-Paparazzi!

Don't let those flashing lights blind your eyes, these street-saavy photogs are actually Choice staffers in disguise! Last week, to spice up a traditional company awards dinner, a few of our Choice guys and gals lined up on the red carpet and got their shutter fingers ready. Armed with cameras and a sharp eye, the Choice crew took aim and clicked away. In addition to the usual suspects of company employees, several celebrity look-a-likes, including Joan Rivers and Howard Stern, lent face time in front of the step-and-repeat to the delight of the eager paparazzi. Talk about making an entrance!

Mercy, Mercy Me

Recently, the Choice offices went to a Fat Tuesday-themed industry event sponsored by Mercy Ships, a global charity that operates a fleet of hospital ships in developing nations. The at-the-door donations benefited the Haiti earthquake victims and earned each guest purple, green, and gold Mardi Gras bead necklaces, all without incurring any indecent exposure fines. Adding to the ambiance was a live band playing bayou-worthy tunes to tap your foot to while admiring the stunning international photography that was on display. The prints were from a recent trip to West Africa, one of the poverty stricken areas the charity mobilizes people and resources to in order to provide surgical procedures and health care. Facial reconstructions from tumors, repair of cleft lips and palates, oral care, and treatment for corneal growths are only a few of the services Mercy Ships offers which can give patients back their hope and confidence. The ‘Nawlins night was capped off by a silent auction with the highest bidding guests leaving with the prized photographs and every guest with the inspiration of the charity's ambitious cause.

Familiar Faces in Unfamiliar Places

They surround us in the city, and yet we breeze past them all the time, not giving more than a cursory glance. Billboards, that is. They have become a part of the cityscape, offering nothing more than splashes of color against an ever-changing backdrop. Except for the billboards of Metro PCS. With a blazing purple background, these massive outdoor advertisements showcase two of Choice staff’s finest, Annmarie Nitti and Sean Martin. With these two familiar faces beaming down at you, how could you not stop to admire the scenery?