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The internet is a game-changer. This has been true in many things, including, and perhaps most especially, online poker. It’s a great thing, but at the same time, it’s nothing like playing in person, which can be either a boon or a challenge.

Here are the many ways playing poker online and in-person are different. After becoming more familiar with them, head on to GG Poker, one of the best online poker sites.

You don’t see your opponents

In online poker, you don’t see your opponents. The key word here is don’t instead of can’t, as the technology for poker rooms to allow players to see one another already exists but is not utilized for a reason. There are many reasons why, but the first and biggest of them is that players online prefer not to be seen, as there is a sense of anxiety in being seen online than in real life.

Poker players not seeing one another is a double-edged sword. The downside is that you won’t be able to see your opponents’ tells. You won’t be able to call their bluffs based on their facial expressions, body language, and what they say. At the same time, they won’t be able to do the same thing to you, so you don’t have to worry about being read.

In-person poker games are social gatherings

In-person poker games are social gatherings. They’re a great way to meet new people, and you can learn a lot about people by the way they play poker. There’s also the bonus of being able to read tells, which can give you an edge in the game.

The social aspect of poker is one of the things that make it so great. You can sit at a table with a group of strangers and, by the end of the night, feel like you’ve made some new friends.

In online poker, the social aspect is non-existent. There’s no banter around the table, no getting to know your opponents, and no telling to read. It’s just you against the other players, which can be good or bad depending on how you view it.

You can play multiple tables at once

In online poker, you can play multiple tables at once. You cannot do this in person, as you can only focus on one game at a time.

Playing multiple tables at once is a great advantage for online players, as it gives them the chance to increase their winnings by playing more hands. It also allows them to play at different stakes, which can help them improve their skills and learn new strategies.

The downside of playing multiple tables is that it can be very distracting, making mistakes easy. You can lose money on one table while winning on another. if you’re not careful

You can practice playing multiple tables in free online poker matches if you want. Once you feel comfortable enough, you can start playing

You have to be more disciplined

When you’re playing online poker games, you have to be more disciplined. This is because there are more temptations to make careless mistakes, such as playing tired or drunk, chasing losses, or tilting.

In-person poker games usually have a set time limit, and players are expected to leave when the time is up. This isn’t the case with online poker, as you can play for as long as you want. This means you must be disciplined to take breaks, set limits, and stick to them.

The upside is that you can play when you want and for as long as you want. The downside is that it’s easy to get carried away and play for too long, leading to fatigue and making you more likely to make mistakes.

You can play from anywhere

In online poker, you can play from anywhere. This is one of the most significant advantages of online poker, as you don’t need to live near a casino or poker room to play. All you need is a computer and an internet connection, and you can play from anywhere in the world. This means you can play on vacation, at work, or even in another country.

The downside is that you can’t play with your friends or family in person. You also can’t take advantage of the social aspects of poker, such as meeting new people and reading tells.

Online poker has a faster pace

Online poker is faster-paced than in-person poker. This is because there are no physical chips and cards so the game can be played much quicker.

The fast pace of online poker can be both a pro and a con. On one hand, it’s great because you can get in many hands and improve your skills quickly. On the other, it’s easy to make mistakes when you’re not used to the pace, and it can be very frustrating if you’re constantly losing. If you don’t want to lose money, you can play poker online free as practice.

You have to be more patient

You have to be more patient in online poker. This is because there are a lot of players who make careless mistakes, such as playing too many hands or chasing losses.

The key to being successful in online poker is patience and waiting for good hands. If you play too many hands, you’ll lose money, and if you chase losses, you’ll end up tilting.

Same game, new challenges

Now that you know the pros and cons of both, which one do you prefer? Your answer depends on what you are looking for in a poker game. Just remember that you can play online poker anytime and anywhere.

Whether football comes home this year or not, the Euro 2020 final is the perfect excuse to indulge in food and drinks and have a party.

The Euros will draw to a close on 11th July, and with one of the top contenders (France) already missing out on the trophy, the title is still very much up for grabs.

So, as restrictions allow parties outside, or a few close friends indoors, how can you create the best Euro 2020 finals party?

This guide will share some ideas for food, décor and half-time entertainment. With a good dose of patriotism, of course.

Guests

Obviously, a party is only as good as the attendees. If you, yourself, are heavily into the football, you should only invite other football fanatics. Otherwise, you might miss some of the action by chatting or looking at someone’s holiday pics. If you’re just looking for an excuse to have friends around and don’t actually care about the verdict, the more the merrier!

Food

After a long battle between 24 teams, there are many cuisines you could choose for your banquet. And since we’re all pretty acquainted with UK food, the Euro final is the perfect time to pay homage to different foods from across the continent.

You can either take on the challenge of making a million and one dishes yourself, or task each guest with bringing a different country’s specialty. You’ll be enjoying a slice of pizza with your moussaka and a baklava for dessert. Delicious.

Décor

If you’ve not already done so, pretty much everything should be donned in flags. If England reach the final, you can wear the three lions with pride. Otherwise, there are plenty of European flags to choose from on Amazon.

You could even print out flags, glue them to cocktail sticks, and place them in your food platters.

Wagers

Most workplaces have a sweepstake that will already have taken place. But for the final, you can use betting sites UK to place your bets on the Euros winner. Alternatively, you could turn it into a drinking game. Take a sip for every minute of extra time, injuries or even yellow cards.

Half-Time Entertainment

During half time, you’ll have a bit of time to relax before the second half. But relaxing doesn’t create much of a party vibe. Instead of sitting back and listening to the game analysis, half time is the perfect time to provide some entertainment.

If you have a garden, why not play a little football yourself? Or try your hand at a little Sports trivia. For those who have the house to themselves you can even put some football anthems on to chant along to.

With food from across the continent, cheap and cheerful décor and very friendly bets in place, you’re set for a great final day of the Euros. Hopefully, the weather will stay dry and you’ll be free to head into the garden for a barbeque, or to cheer on the winner with the next-door neighbours.

Balancing sustainability with beauty can be a challenge. So we have done the hard work for you and found three of the best sustainable jewellery brands out there.

From recycling sterling silver to re-casting old fish hooks or re-setting family gems, these three jewellery brands offer us a way to look stunning while protecting our planet.

1. Influenstar

Waste silver is a heavy metal which means that it is hazardous and toxic when released into the environment as waste. But brand-new West Midlands-based start-up, Influenstar, is changing all that by up-cycling silver waste.

Influenstar uses recycled 925 silver, re-styling and re-plating it with a little layer of gold. The results are gorgeous and far better for the environment than newly sourced silver, which harms the planet with its invasive mining and refining processes.

Influenstar has lots of styles but our favourites? The T-bar chain and crescent moon necklace.

Find out more on theinfluenstar.com.

2. Alexandra Hakim

Alexandra Hakim is an inspirational artist who finds materials for her jewellery everywhere. She casts used and found objects into precious metals, to cast everyday life into forever form.

One of our favourite collections is ‘No More Fish in the Sea’. To bring attention to the pollution of Lebanon’s coastline, Alexandra has collected real fish hooks and fishing chains, recast them in silver and gold, and added mother of pearl. So, chokers, chains and earrings in the collection offer style and sustainability.

Find out more on Alexandrahakim.co.

3. Georgina Boyce

Repairing and reusing what you already have is one of the most sustainable things you can do. Georgina Boyce is the master of re-fashioning old jewellery to create stunning new pieces.

She is a gemologist and a designer, based in London, and because her work helps us re-use precious family heirlooms, she is one of our favourite choices for wedding and engagement rings.

Find out more on GeorginaBoyce.com.

“During times of standstill Victoria enabled people to connect,” says Vicky Cheng, Founder and CEO of Victoria the App, as she looks back on how her eponymous tech business inspired and connected locked-down creatives in times of peak pandemic blues.

Victoria the App is a league apart from other dating/networking apps in the market today. Designed with the purpose of building meaningful connections over forced, temporary flings, Victoria the App has not only succeeded in providing a sense of community during endless lockdown iterations, but also promises to be one of London’s buzziest virtual member’s clubs this year.

“My aim was to fuse virtual life with real life, taking the pressure off finding a place to meet that would suit both individuals,” Vicky said. “I feel that as much as technology has helped us find new people, we still need to keep a natural element in making connections.

We sit down with Vicky Cheng and discuss the early days of her tech start-up, how she has stood out as a woman in tech, and the merits of building meaningful connections and surrounding yourself with the right people to help you succeed.

She also gives some sound advice for future female tech entrepreneurs looking to shine in a male-dominated landscape, underscoring the value of self-belief and embracing all the things that make you ‘naturally original.’

Vicky says, “Step out of your comfort zone and never think that being a girl is a problem, and instead only as an advantage. As Beyonce once said, she never faced any glass ceiling. Being different is an advantage, it sets you apart and makes you naturally original.”

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background, what inspired you to start Victoria the App?

I am originally from Hong Kong but made the UK my home when I was 17. I went to an all-girls school here, before starting my studies at London School of Economics. My family remained in Hong Kong, so I’ve always been keen to meet people that have the same mindset as me. People I could trust, otherwise it can quickly get lonely, especially in a big city like London.

I started Victoria right after graduation, as I found that all the other apps I was using to meet people, just gave me temporary connections, and the whole process felt a little forced. From this personal issue, Victoria was born. I wanted to create a platform that connects people through mutual interests, whilst also letting them meet in organic settings, through the app’s many events.

My aim was to fuse virtual life with real life, taking the pressure off finding a place to meet that would suit both individuals. I feel that as much as technology has helped us find new people, we still need to keep the spontaneity in making connections.

I wanted to offer a healthy alternative to the usual toxic space of dating app. Victoria is a community of high-quality people, that saves young entrepreneurs and creatives time when looking for a like-minded network.

Dating, networking, events – Victoria the App has everything! What were those early days of starting your business like?

The beginning was hard as I didn’t have a technical background and it was my first job after graduation. Funnily enough, I was setting up a networking business through networking, which highlights the importance of connections. Through constantly meeting people, I found so many talented individuals that helped me set up the technical side of the business. In those early days, I set up my website with the help of a supportive intern and even gave coding a try.

After a while I joined a coworking space where I met incredible, talented people who were all keen to connect. One of whom was an iOS freelancer who helped me get the app on the Appstore.

I made a lot of mistakes and changed my idea few times before getting to the final concept that we know today. I also realised that hiring the right people that work well together other was crucial for efficiency and productivity.

In the early days it was all about making mistakes and learning from them. You must be brave, have great passion for what you do and have the ability to persuade everyone around you that your idea will be successful. Don’t let other people project their fear on you and you’ll see you’re going into the right direction. As an entrepreneur the most important thing you must learn is how to change your opposers opinion.

What have been the biggest milestones so far?

One of the biggest milestones is hitting 1k members and launching abroad. I also hear people talk about Victoria, so word of mouth is working. Our stats also show that with have the highest 14 day retention rate amongst our competitors, which shows that our members enjoy being in the Victoria community.

Another great achievement was when our first A-list celebrity signed up to the platform, it really highlighted the impressive quality of our community.

Tech is traditionally a field dominated by men. How do you set yourself apart in the tech world as a woman?

Being a woman has never stopped me from going for anything, and I’ve never felt that I was overlooked or not respected. Because of the industry I’m in, a lot of my teammates are men, but that doesn’t mean they disrespect or patronise their female colleagues.

We also have a lot of tech savvy women in our team, for example my NED is a brilliant lady that came from Bumble and now helps me grow the Victoria community. When I make decisions about hiring, I am not biased on gender nor am specifically looking for a balance, it’s what they can do and know that counts.

Personally, I really feel that success tells more about a person rather than gender. I believe this is also why I’ve never felt disadvantaged as a woman. I always try to make my achievements speak for me and earn respect within this male dominated industry. Once the industry got word that I managed to receive funding, a lot of other companies were interested in me and wanted to learn more about Victoria.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as an entrepreneur so far?

With setting up a start-up everything is very challenging, but I think the biggest task is finding the most suitable people for my brand. People forget that it isn’t just about capabilities but also about how the person resonates with my vision and how they can fit into the team dynamics. Trust is also a major factor that goes into the hiring process, as my staff will get the most intimate insight into my ideas and strategy.

In the world of COVID-19, what role do you think online communities like Victoria the App can play in connecting people?

During the numerous lockdowns we had to endure, I felt Victoria kept a sense of normality for our members. We hosted a range of online events once a week, which all had fantastic turnup rates, during peak covid times we had around 80 attendees.

We partnered with great brands such as Wolf & Badger who sparked a conversation about body positivity. We also had entertaining cocktail making classes and a virtual visit to a classic car garage. For many it was the highlight of their week. Others felt it was very refreshing seeing new faces and not speak to the same ten people in their emotional support circle. During times of standstill Victoria enabled people to connect and have intriguing conversations.

Covid measures are gradually being eased so we can now commence with real events, bring Victoria to life, and show our members the real potential of our community.

What’s next for you? Any new exciting projects in the pipeline?

Our latest events were hosted in person for the first time. Most recently, we had a low-key get together at the exclusive private members club, Laylow. Joshua Kane, a quintessentially British tailor also collaborated with Victoria by hosting an ambassador dinner at another private members club, Home House. In July, I will be speaking on a panel, as part of our ‘Brands disrupting the norm’ Event at Home Grown, Home House’s sister club focussing on Entrepreneurs, Investors and Business Leaders.

Other than events, I will keep pushing Victoria to reach more people and receive greater resonance around the globe. One of our main objectives for 2021 is to increase growth amongst our community and receive more traction on the app. To achieve all this and unfold our greatness, we are constantly looking for investors and are planning to participate in fundraisers.

What advice do you have for women who would like to become GirlBosses like yourself?

Believe in yourself don’t care what other people say about you, if you really want to set up your own business and that is the only thing you want to do career wise, go for it and take the plunge!

Make sure you always ask for help, a start-up is about getting all the support you can and building useful connections. You need to find people that are willing to support you, mentor you and be friends with you throughout your journey from setting up your business to success.

Step out of your comfort zone and never think that being a girl is a problem, and instead view it only as an advantage.

As Beyonce once said, she never faced any glass ceiling. Being different is an advantage, it sets you apart and makes you naturally original.

WWW.VICTORIATHEAPP.COM

Online shopping for clothes is a challenging process. How will you try many sizes? How will you know that the fabric will feel good on your skin? These are some of the hard questions you will ask yourself when you intent to buy the perfect cloth you saw in an online fashion guide. With the advancements in technology, fraud cases are low. It makes the process a little more genuine than before. Here, you will access the best tips to follow to buy clothes online.

Check the measurements

The height of model in the picture is very crucial. Does the model have flat or heels? Knowing this will aid you in getting the exact length of the trouser, skirt, or dress. A skirt above the knees of a model around six feet will fall below your knees if you are shorter. A pair that looks to be calf-length on a model may end up being full length on you for pairing cropped trousers. Be keen when checking clothe hikes.

Watch videos

Is there a TV series with a model putting on the clothes that you admire? Watch the video. You will have an idea of the quality and weight of the fabric when the model walks. The catwalk videos talk more about the cloth used.

Size yourself

Some shopping sites have the “what’s my size” function. The function allows you to enter your weight and height. You will state if you prefer loose or tight clothes. The function then informs you of the right size cloth with dimensions like what you need to buy. You will also get the percentage of the successful sales of this cloth that customers did not return.

Choose classics

The fashion-forward clothes may not have accurate dates when sale shopping. Don’t always go for fashions but rather classics. Tailored trousers, minimal jackets, silk skirts, and light knitwear are perfect. Always remember that items are on sale for a specific reason. In many scenarios, clients bet that certain trends will not be hot when seasons and time change.

Laundry labels

Check for the washing instructions on the website that you are buying the cloth. Some clothes are dry clean alone. You need to pick the washing method you will be able to do.

Selecting the Cloth accessories

How high?

When buying heels online, measure the highest height of your shoes. Don’t buy anything higher than what you use in your daily life. Some heels will look nice on the website, but they won’t be a perfect match for your clothes.

Dimensions

Clothes accessories may seem a sure bet, but it’s always good to check your dimensions. A bag can appear smaller online than in real life. It can also have stiffer leather than you expected. Many cross bags look pretty on screens, but in real life, they might not have space for your purse, phone, and keys.

Bulk buying

Many websites will offer free returns making it cheaper in the end. If you are in the cloth business, you can sign up for notifications to get new releases. Don’t forget to check the websites’ return policy to see if your worries have a solution.

Better returns and deliveries

Some returns and delivery policies are not good at all. Google to see if the branch outlets are near your area for easy returns and deliveries. Google will also provide good websites that have better returns and deliveries.

Conclusion

Online shopping is easy as it will save you travel expenses and time. You only place an order, and you receive your luggage. Be keen not to end up buying cloth that won’t fit you or please you.

As the Olympic Games opens in Tokyo this summer, get a little taste of Japan here in the UK at The Prince Akatoki, the only 5-star Japanese hotel in London. Drawing inspiration from Asia, this is the perfect destination to relax and experience Japanese culture. House of Coco was invited to try the hotel’s Taste of Japan package, designed to create an authentic, memorable stay.

The experience starts as you check-in to one of the luxurious rooms, where you are welcomed with special Japanese inspired comforts including a traditional tea set so you can create your own tea ceremony and Yukata robe laid out on your bed, which add a little Asian fusion to your stay. All of the bedrooms are spacious however we were lucky enough to be upgraded to one of the suites. This zen sanctuary oozes style and elegance, combining neutral tones and minimalist lines, synonymous with Japanese interiors. A clean, fresh, light aesthetic is continued throughout the hotel. Soft white walls and natural wood run throughout the space. As well as a large bedroom and bathroom, the suite includes a kitchen and living space, ideal for relaxing in. The floor to ceiling windows in the bedroom floods the room with natural light. A stunning fusuma panel inspired wall is the focal point of the suite bringing an accent of colour to the room. There are touches of the Far East scattered all around the hotel including the beautiful Ikebana style floral displays.

After checking in we went for a stroll. The hotel is perfectly located for anyone who wants to explore London. Hyde Park is on your doorstep, and it is a short walk to Oxford Street and Bond Street.

After a couple of hours shopping and taking in the sights, we were ready to relax so went back to the hotel for a drink and dinner. It is wonderfully calm in The Prince Akatoki and you instantly feel a million miles away from the bustling London streets.

Superb sake is the name of the game at The Malt Bar and you can’t stay here without sampling the Japanese homegrown sake. Located on the ground floor of the hotel, this sophisticated, grown up bar has a serious selection of rare Japanese whiskies and spirits. Whisky fans can purchase their own premium bottle which will be housed in the bar’s secret vault that only you can access with your own key as and when you fancy a tipple. A full bloom cherry blossom tree has been installed in the corner and is the perfect backdrop to sip Sakura inspired cocktails. We sampled some of the extensive cocktail menu, I opted for a Momo Martini, a blend of Haku vodka, St. Germain, lychee water, peach honey and yuzu.

After drinks we head to TOKii restaurant for some authentic Japanese cuisine. The space is contemporary, dark timber joinery, screen divides and low lighting create an intimate atmosphere. The A La Carte menu has something for everyone with signature dishes, lighter bites and sides as well as a full menu of Nigiri, Sashimi and Sushi Roll options. The dishes served are like works of art and pretty enough to fill any Instagram feed. We opted for a bit of everything and were not disappointed, every dish was delicious. TOKii’s menu is modern, fresh and combines the best of Eastern and Western flavours. Highlights include the lobster croquettes, crisp and delicate with a perfectly balanced ponzu and mango salsa. The crispy pork belly was rich in flavour and the Cornish crab mayonnaise was not only an array of mouth popping tastes, but it was also beautifully presented, so much so I felt bad eating it. Our waitress insisted we try the wagyu beef with spicy ponzu sauce and I am so glad we did, it was ‘melt in your mouth’ tender and bursting with flavour. I would come back here just for the dining experience.

The Japanese pride themselves on service and the staff here are excellent, the attention to detail and level of hospitality was faultless throughout our stay. The hotel offers guests a chance to explore a culture rich in unique experiences set in a luxurious, relaxing space. The Prince Akatoki is a staycation that will whisk you to the other side of the world, without having to travel abroad.

Nightly rates at The Prince Akatoki London start from £229. A Taste of Japan Experience also includes a sushi masterclass and Ikebana flower arranging, which you can take home as a souvenir. To celebrate their post lockdown reopening, The Prince Akatoki is offering Sakura Season experiences, for more information and to book visit theprinceakatokilondon.com

No matter what kind of backyard you have, you’re probably not using the space in full. While homes have some storage built in, gardens are usually wide-open spaces that you can make use of. If you don’t have enough storage space in the house, then even a small yard can be a bonus.

It’s not simply about the aesthetic either. While it’s nice to have some garden furniture, you need space to store objects such as gardening tools and toys.

It’s all about using your imagination or letting us do that for you. We look at six garden storage hacks that you wish you’d known earlier.

Garden Furniture with Storage

If you’ve decided to invest in some garden furniture, look for some that has storage space. Alternatively, you can repurpose old household items and give them a new lease of life.

  • A writing desk

An old writing desk is perfect for storing gloves, small trowels or spades. You can add some plants on top for a small, but pretty tabletop garden.

  • Seating bench

Rather than chairs, you can use small wooden seating benches that have space within. Pop toys out of sight or use for items that need shielding from the elements.

  • Bookcase

Give a tired bookcase a lick of outdoor paint, turn it on its side and pop it outside. Now you have a garden bench with lots of storage below.

Garden Shed/Outhouse

Most people think they need a lot of space for a shed, but there are so many options available now. You can even build one in less than a day if you put your mind to it.

Take some inspiration from these guys and you can make the most of even a small wooden shed. Buy a narrow garden shed and paint it a bright shade and it will jazz up even the smallest space.

Container Covers

If you live somewhere with inclement weather, you can make more of your outdoor space with a container cover. This works best if you already have a shed. It’s an inexpensive way to add extra storage to your home and garden.

It can also give you the protection to create a little office or quiet space underneath it.

Shelving

You might just have a narrow side yard, but it doesn’t mean it has to be neglected. Here’s some ideas for using spaces you may not have thought of.

  • Mount ladder shelving

You can prop or mount ladder shelving to a wall and add plants or store nails, screws or buckets.

  • Log storage

Purchase a log shelving unit to be affixed to the wall to add a rustic feel to your garden. Now the wood looks good and it’s not just lying on the ground.

The Multi-Purpose Crate

Wooden crates are cheap or free and you can find them everywhere. What’s more is that they can be used for so many things.

  • Prop against a wall and add small plants for a wonderful aesthetic.
  • Stick together to make a hiding place for your garden hose
  • Make an outdoor coffee table using some left-over crates, some glue and plywood

Utilise All Space

Don’t forget any wall space, no matter how small.

  • Add hanging baskets

Hanging baskets can be fixed to a wall or fence, or even inside your shed. These are great for toys, plants and even cleaning supplies.

  • A hanging organizer

You use them inside your home, but they are also great in the garden. Store shoes, winter gear and small gardening tools in one.

Once you start looking at your garden with these in mind, you’ll probably come up with other ideas. There’s so much space that you can make use of in a sustainable and inexpensive way. Now you can find a place for everything, from the outdoor cushions to the garden hose. www.livingwateraeration.com/collections/pond-fountains

“Since the beginning I’ve always strived to achieve the impossible,” says Yoanny Garcia when looking back on the early days of launching her eponymous bag brand.

Yoanny Garcia, the brand, is classic, elegant and unique — much like its founder, who has made it her mission to showcase the bold style and vibrant hues of the Dominican Republic on the global fashion stage.

“It is my pride as a Dominican and my mission to represent my country in the fashion world on the global stage,” Yoanny says. “It’s always been integral for me to empower the “Made in D.R” label. It is my vision to develop high-quality handmade products in partnership with local artisans, who have worked in my studio since my day one.

In conversation with Yoanny Garcia, we talk about the inspirations behind her colourful bags, the importance of supporting of local artisans and how her ‘works of art’ can help women feel their most authentic selves wherever they go.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background. What inspired you to start your own accessories brand?

I studied Business Administration in the Dominican Republic and then years later I did my master’s degree in International Management in Madrid. Ever since I was a little girl, fashion has always been my biggest passion. I made the decision to start my very own fashion brand when I lived in Madrid. All my friends told me that they admired my style and the bags that I made for myself and that I should start selling them, and so that’s what I did. In 2014 I officially launched my dream project, my Yoanny Garcia brand. My first collection was ‘Let’s Play’ and they were only clutches. It was undoubtedly one of the proudest moments of my life.

If you could describe the Yoanny Garcia aesthetic in three words, what would they be and why?

Classic, elegant and unique.

In what ways does your Dominican culture and heritage influence your designs?

The influence goes beyond my culture. It is my pride as a Dominican and my mission to represent my country in the fashion world on the global stage. It’s always been integral for me to empower the “Made in D.R” label. It is my vision to develop high-quality handmade products in partnership with local artisans, who have worked in my studio since my day one.

For me it goes both ways, I have helped the Dominican artisan community and they have helped make my brand come to life by producing truly amazing products. My country has strong colours, culture, and vibrations that the world needs to see it!

Transparency and sustainability are core to your ethics as a brand. How do you as a brand owner/designer balance profit and purpose?

Yoanny Garcia is a regulated brand, and we strictly follow Dominican regulations by showing everything that happens behind the scenes in the most transparent way.

On the sustainability side, I’m very proud to say that all my pieces are 90% handmade (sometimes even higher) and we are committed to preserving the environment that brings us such amazing raw materials.

Here at Yoanny Garcia, we thrive everyday learning about new materials and techniques so the process of making a bag becomes more and more environmentally-friendly. One of our latest innovations is incorporating natural cork in our bags, and it really looks amazing! We also make donations to different foundations and give back once to our tight-knit Dominican community.

Last year, in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic chaos, we started selling dominoes made with our bag acrylic and all the profit went to Save the Children Foundation directly helping pregnant women and mothers affected by the crisis.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome as an entrepreneur so far?

The biggest challenge I’ve overcome is becoming an entrepreneur. It’s a lot of work and sacrifice and it’s been especially hard with the COVID-19 crisis. Because of the pandemic, everything went south with the fashion industry, sales slowed down, and it became very difficult to maintain my business and protect my partners.

As a businesswoman, I’ve made a lot of sacrifices to stay afloat during this difficult period. It’s been a long and challenging road and it still is to this day. I know it will keep being that way forever, but this business is where I found true happiness, I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.

Tell us about your latest collection. What are the inspirations behind it, and do you have a favourite piece?

My two latest collections are called ‘Regina’ and ‘Abby’ with new modifications and colourways. The launch of ‘Colette’ was also a total hit! I get inspired by everything, a texture, a colour, or a feeling. It could be something I see or a combination of everything and for me that’s the beauty of art.

Seeing the final product with my team after countless trials is the best feeling in the world. For me, it’s impossible to choose a favourite piece, they are like my daughters! But I can say that the YG Ladies favourites are Teresa, Camellia, Abby, and Colette these days. I can’t wait for the launch of our next collection! There are many exciting things coming for the brand.

In your opinion, what sets Yoanny Garcia from other fashion brands in the market today?

Since the beginning I’ve always strived to achieve the impossible. I like to create different and unique pieces that I know my YG Ladies will love. I envision that when they enter any room, they will turn heads just so people can see the piece of art they are wearing. My pieces perfectly complementing their whole outfit and presence. For me, I don’t sell just a fashion piece, I create and sell feelings, exclusivity, and the magic of being your true, authentic self wherever you go, with a piece that represents you and your personality.

What advice do you have for women who would like to become a GirlBoss like yourself?

Start and don’t ever stop. If it is your dream, go for it because if you don’t do it, no one will do it for you. Be your own boss and stand up for yourself and for what you believe in. Organise yourself and don’t get distracted or discouraged by others. You got this babe.

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For some people being single, especially when you don’t want to, is a stressful and depressing stage. But for others, this is the perfect phase to feel empowered, free, independent, and confident. It’s the perfect chance to focus on yourself and other people that genuinely value you as much as you do for them. You do what you want without seeking permission from a partner or worrying about what they’re doing.

Instead of thinking about frustration and loneliness, focus on the positive things and experiences you can get from being single. Believe it or not, that phase in your life isn’t something to be sad about. It should be celebrated! Here’s a health and lifestyle guide from us to help you embrace the positives of being single.

Prioritize your health

You don’t have to postpone your regular medical checkups with surprise lunch dates anymore, and that’s great news for your health. Most women, single or not, don’t put enough effort and time into their health, which is alarming. If that’s you, your ‘single’ phase already gives you more time and opportunity to check in with your health and prevent or treat any illness that’s negatively affecting your daily life.

For instance, most women are not aware that loss of bladder control or urinary incontinence can lead to restrictions of physical activity and interactions. In fact, it can even be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. If you’re experiencing urine leaks when you exercise, laugh, or sneeze, it’s best to consult a doctor. They can help assess if you will need to have laser rejuvenation to bring back the normal functions or if simple lifestyle changes will do. Other common health issues in women that you might want to have a checkup for include ovarian cancer, autoimmune diseases, andanxiety.

Practice intentional living

One of the best things about being single is that you don’t necessarily need to compromise on anything or defer to another person. Now, everything’s about you and this is the perfect time to be intentional with your life. Intentional living generally involves creating a life that makes you satisfied, happy, and proud.

Take a look back at the things you want to achieve or do but neglected when you were in the relationship. Are there activities and habits that you want to include in your daily routine? What things can add more meaning and positivity to your life? Jot down everything and start making an action plan. Some people forgot to check in with themselves when they are in a relationship. If this is your case, now’s the time to recreate your life for the better.

Learn to love yourself

Have you’ve been in a situation that you get so caught with your partner and forget to check in with your own needs and wants? Such a bummer, right? But with being single, you can do that. You can fall in love with yourself all over again. It’s a scientific fact that every person has needs, from physical to emotional.

The catch is, it takes effort and intention to attend to those needs. Start loving yourself more by understand and accepting your flaws and faults. And from there, look beyond and see the beauty and positive things with you. Practicing self-love enables you to not just take care of yourself, but also shift your perspective in life.

Fill your life with passion

Being single isn’t about being alone and lonely. It’s actually having more time to do what you love and makes you happy. When you’re staying at home, fill your free time with hobbies that you enjoy, whether it’s writing, reading, painting, or even having a Netflix marathon. This removes feelings of depression and isolation, and fills you with excitement and fun.

But of course, be sure to also have activities that you can do outside your home. Take an early morning walk at the park, go camping or hiking with your friends, visit amusement parks with your family-the sky’s the limit! Immerse yourself in meaningful activities and live a more exciting and happier lifestyle than before.

Always remember that no matter how many people you met, it’s only you, and nothing but you, who could truly make yourself happy. And by accepting this positive stage with a smile, it won’t be too difficult for you to go towards your dreams and value and love yourself first. Plus, you also get to have the opportunity to focus on caring and loving the people who stick with you no matter what, whether they’re family or friends.

It can be difficult to find the right present for everyone in your life, especially the people you care about the most. Sometimes, you really want to find an extra special surprise but have no idea where to get started. No matter what your situation is, everyone has struggled with gift-giving from time to time.

You might think having fewer restrictions on your budget might make shopping easier, but in reality, it just means you have even more choices to be overwhelmed by. Not only that, but you want to make sure you get something worth the money you spend, especially if you plan to splurge. If you need to shop for a high-end gift for someone and don’t know where to get started, read on for three luxurious gift ideas that are guaranteed to make a good impression.

1. Invest in a special timepiece.

When it comes to luxury gifts, an expensive watch or timepiece is a classic choice, especially if you know collectors. Make sure you learn about the watchmaker or brand you’re purchasing from beforehand. There is a great deal of old or well-regarded watchmakers and it’s worth getting to know more before you make a purchase.

Panerai’s history, for example, is fascinating and makes owning one of their pieces even more special. Panerai’s watches pioneered underwater technology and even became indispensable tools for military organizations like the Egyptian Navy and the Royal Italian Navy. Even after Giuseppe Panerai passed away, the brand continued to flourish under Italian naval officer Dino Zei’s leadership.

Models like the Radiomir and the Luminor are staples of the Panerai catalog, though they offer a variety of styles as well. Panerai is a great example of a watchmaker with history and a pedigree of partnerships with luxury brands like Rolex, that produce a reliable product worthy of investing in. With so much competition and such great artistry present in the timepiece industry, there’s no need to settle for less.

2. Celebrate memories with a custom photo gift.

custom photo album is a great way to celebrate some of your best moments together and make sure they’re preserved in an elegant and thoughtful way. A hardcover photo book is another elegant way to display some of your favorite memories.

Photo books have the benefit of appearing high-end and suitable for display on a coffee table or in another area of your home, which allows them to function as both a way to look back at favorite photos and an interesting piece of home décor. Most companies will have a template you can work off, or you can create your own design from scratch if you have the time and creativity.

3. Take a trip together.

There’s nothing that’ll leave an impression quite like making memories together on an incredible vacation. You don’t need to spend a week in Seychelles to have an amazing time, though you certainly can do that if you think your friend will enjoy it.

The most important thing to take into account when planning travel for someone else is what their needs and preferences are. If you don’t know someone well enough, it may not be a good idea to plan a trip for them, and you might be better off describing the idea and providing a gift certificate or going with a different present entirely. For anyone you’re especially close to and that you’d like to spend more time with, a luxurious getaway is one of the best gifts you can receive.

Shopping for presents for your friends and family can be fun, but it can also be difficult to find the right gift sometimes. Take the time to learn about the person you’re shopping for before you shop and figure out what kind of treat they’d enjoy the most. If they don’t wear jewelry, a watch may not be the best gift, and a trip may not be ideal for someone who doesn’t enjoy travel.

Whenever you’re buying something for someone besides yourself, the most important thing is finding something they like, not just finding something you think is a good gift. It’s worth the effort to find the perfect presents for the important people in your life, especially when you’re trying to treat someone to a luxurious surprise.