Last Thursday, TD Bank and Union celebrated the launch of the summer music season by rocking Toronto’s core with the TD-Union Block Party at Union Station!
As the Founding Sponsor and Exclusive Financial Service Partner of Union Station, TD and Union have come together to create a summer long program which is all about bringing people together to celebrate the importance of music in our lives. Planned acts include incredible Canadian talent from across the country.
Hosted by Canadian hip-hop legend and personality Kardinal Offishall, the TD-Union Block Party kicked-off with performances by up-and-coming artists Nefe and Andee, followed by sets from co-headliners Shawn Hook and Francesco Yates.
The audience sang along while Shawn Hook performed his breakout-hit Sound of Your Heart. Francesco Yates showed off his true star power, taking over the stage with his expert guitar playing, singing and dancing! Seeing everyone come together to enjoy some amazing home-grown talent was an incredible experience and we can’t wait for the next event.
TD will be continuing this musical programming throughout summer outside of Union Station. Make sure to stop by for some sunshine, snacks and celebration!
Francesco Yates posing with the Why Music Matters wall at the TD Union Block PartyShawn Hook posing with the Why Music Matters wall at the TD Union Block PartyFrancesco Yates performing at the TD Union Block PartyShawn Hook and Francesco Yates appearing on Breakfast Television to chat about the TD Union Block PartyKardinall Offishall hosting the TD Union Block PartyA perfect view of summer in Toronto!The gathered crowd loving the TD Union Block Party
Around the NKPR office, we love to talk about love! Whether it’s the breakups and makeups of our favourite Hollywood stars, the ups and downs of our own love lives, or the latest and greatest in romantic comedies… love is a hot-topic for us!
Not that we ever need an excuse to put on a cheesy, hopelessly romantic movie on a Sunday afternoon… but with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we thought it would be fun to round up NKPR staffers’ best romantic comedies of all time!
Whether you’re single or attached, admit we all enjoy a good ol’ fashioned rom-com to inspire and remind us that love truly is worth celebrating.
Read on for our all-time favourites…
Natasha: You’ve Got Mail with Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks!! My favourite quote is: “The odd thing about this form of communication is that you’re more likely to talk about nothing than something but I just want to say that all this nothing has meant more to me than so many somethings.” So romantic!
Lauren: Clueless… because Cher Horowitz is EVERYTHING. (It ends in romance so I’m classifying it as a rom-com!) The best Cher quote is “LUCY!!! Where is my white collarless shirt from Fred Segal? It’s my most capable looking outfit!!” And my favourite scene is the one below… I actually LOVE her outfit in this scene, with the long sheer collar shirt & cropped sweater.
Rebecca:
One of my favourite romantic comedies is The Holiday. Jude Law for the win!
Tory:
My favourite rom-com is definitely Notting Hill. Between Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, the smile-factor is NEXT level. My favourite scene is when they are racing around London trying to get to Julia’s character’s film junket.
Katie:
My all-time favourite romantic comedy is How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days. The best scene is when Ben takes Andy to meet his parents and you witness them realize they are actually falling for each other during the shower scene as Chantal Kreviazuk’s “Feels Like Home” plays in the background. Classic!!! ❤️
Nathan: I Love you, Man! So it’s a little more com than rom, but who doesn’t love a hilarious bromance? My favourite scene: Slappin’ da bass. My favourite quote: “Get home safe Pistol.” “You got it, Jobin.”
Yulia:
Although it’s one of those bleak comedies, Lost in Translation has a great romance at its heart. Favourite quote: Bob: “Can you keep a secret? I’m trying to organize a prison break. I’m looking for, like, an accomplice. We have to first get out of this bar, then the hotel, then the city, and then the country. Are you in or you out?”
Nicole M.: Amélie! ❤️
Amanda: Princess Bride! Love the humour, period wardrobe and great romantic love story that melts my heart every time! Favorite scene is a classic moment in 80’s movie history when Wesley is tossed down the hill by the Princess who has not yet been aware of his identity. He is then suddenly discovered as her one true love when his words float up to her as he tumbles downward, “As… you… wish.” Really cool romantic scene. 🙂
Aisosa:
My all-time favourite romantic comedy is He’s Just Not That Into You. So many key messages that girlfriends are either too naïve or caring to break to their girls – but sometimes, “If he’s not calling you, it’s because you are not on his mind” because “busy is another word for a**hole.” 🙂
Cait: When Harry Met Sally! Classic, but I love everything about it. Especially how the characters and their relationships change during the movie (case-in-point Sally’s take on Casablanca), but their most annoying – and uniquely loveable – qualities stay the same (cue final scene, with chocolate sauce on the side). The vignettes of couples throughout the movie are maybe my fave parts, but, again, I love the whole thing from the song ‘let’s call the whole thing off’ to the faceless man in Sally’s dreams.
Daria:
Does Forgetting Sarah Marshall count?
Nicole A: Love Actually – It’s just so real. Bill Nighy is a genius. I watch it 10x every Christmas season!
Erin: I love P.S. I Love You because it makes me ugly cry and Gerard Butler is hot.
Cassie: Serendipity! 🙂 I love the moment that she gets the bill with his name and number on it. There’s that overwhelming happiness you get when you realize they’re going to be together!
Kristin: The 40-Year Old Virgin! Judd Apatow. Steve Carrell. Catherine Keener. Paul Rudd! Just about as much awkwardness as you’d expect based on the title… but actually a really earnest love story. Laugh out loud funny.
Bunmi: Top Five was written and directed by Chris Rock. He also stars in the film with Rosario Dawson and Gabrielle Union. It’s a Woody Allen-esque film that showcases Chris as comedian Andre Allen, the romantic lead, and Rosario as a New York Times writer Chelsea Brown; she is the mega cool love interest for Andre and love rival to Gabrielle Union’s Erica Long, a gorgeous reality mega-star who is about to get married to Andre. It is a smart, breezy film that can be a bit raunchy for some people’s tastes, but I like a bit of raunch! 🙂
Olena:
My favourite romantic comedy is Bridget Jones’ Diary because I am basically her.
Do you agree with our list? We want to know what your favourite romantic comedies are… tweet us at @natashankpr!
*All images belong to the rightful owners.
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Black Is The New Black – RUDSAK Fashion All Summer Long
Here at NKPR, it’s no secret that we love fashion…especially anything that comes in black! From red carpet events to dinners on the town, black is our ultimate go-to. After all, Neiman Marcus did say: “Women who wear black lead colourful lives.”
One of our favourite Canadian fashion brands, RUDSAK, is best known for their signature “all black everything” style offering trendy pieces that can be worn all year long.
When it comes to black, there’s a fine line between boring basic and sophisticated chic…the secret is in the details. So if you’re wondering, “How do I make black work in a season full of pretty pastels and feminine florals?” don’t fret – RUDSAK has everything you need to embrace your own cool-rebel spirit.
Women’s Fashion
A classic leather jacket is a seasonal staple. Throw this RUDSAK ELSA on over your skinny jeans for instant rockstar vibe or make an edgy statement by wearing it with this season’s popular boho trend.
The three most important letters in any fashionista’s vocabulary: LBD (Little Black Dress). RUDSAK’s OPHIRA dress has put an end to the eternal fashion scavenger hunt; this form-flattering jersey dress will take you from the office to dinner to dancing and beyond!
Our favourite trend right now: combining sheer and lace! The RUDSAK OBELIAskirt is the perfect choice for evening weddings or as a versatile transition piece from day-to-night. Pair with a bright top or a silk cami for a rebel ballerina look (Step aside Black Swan!).
Men’s Fashion
Summer can mean unpredictable weather (looking at you mysterious rainclouds!). The RUDSAK TRAVIS is a Letterman-style bomber jacket with RUDSAK’s signature leather touch. The full sleeves made with genuine sheep leather ensure you’ll be set for all weather conditions and social events.
Who doesn’t love a combination of classic and casual? The RUDSAK KINGSTON button down with lamb leather sleeves is a man’s best friend for spontaneous summer adventures. Easily dress this piece up with a dinner jacket or keep it casual with dark denim for all those budding social events on your calendar.
What’s your favourite way to wear black in the summer? Tweet us at @NatashaNKPR!
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Scotiabank Photography Award Winner: Angela Grauerholz
“A great photograph is one that fully expresses what one feels, in the deepest sense, about what is being photographed.” ― Ansel Adams
Earlier this week, Scotiabank named Angela Grauerholz as the winner of the 5th annual Scotiabank Photography Award.
As the largest annual peer-nominated and peer-reviewed celebration of excellence in Canadian contemporary photography, the Scotiabank Photography Award includes a $50,000 cash prize, a solo Primary Exhibition at the Ryerson Image Centre during the 2016 Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival, and a book of the winner’s work to be published and distributed worldwide by renowned art book publisher, Gerhard Steidl.
Angela Grauerholz is known for work that feels as if it were plucked from a dream, with a uniquely personal and philosophical insight that brings an unparalleled depth and presence to her photographs.
Some of Angela’s incredible work…
NKPR is honoured to work with the Scotiabank Photography Award celebrating amazing contemporary Canadian photography and we look forward to seeing Angela’s exhibition next year!
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Support Save Our Scruff at PYA Importer’s Sample Sale: May 7-9
Although it’s really no surprise to anyone…here at NKPR, we’re all about the puppy love! Few things warm our hearts more than a fluffy, cuddly kiss from a puppy (and that “new puppy” smell – don’t even get us started!). This weekend, we’re shopping an amazing cause in support of our favourite furry friends.
From May 7-9, PYA Importer (famous for brands like LINE Knitwear, John and Jenn, and Patrick Assaraf) is hosting a Sample Sale with a percentage of proceeds donated toSave Our Scruff – an incredible Rehome & Rescue dog shelter. Not only will you find all your fashion must-haves at amazing prices, you’ll leave knowing you helped find a puppy a brand new home!
How you can support Save Our Scruff:
1) Post a photo showing puppy love on Facebook, Instagram and/or Twitter
We’re having so much fun this weekend at the second instalment of Love Art Fair in Canada. Open all weekend, Love Art Fair hosts 50+ galleries showcasing affordable, contemporary art including original paintings, artist-made prints, sculptures and photographs…all under one roof!
As lovers of contemporary art ourselves (take one look at the office and you’ll see what we mean), we love celebrating the Toronto art scene and getting to know our local galleries. Take a look at some of the action so far…
Show us your Love Art favourites – Tweet us at @NatashaNKPR!
Kicking off the art season next week, we wait (not so patiently) for the second instalment of the Love Art Fair; a simple yet inspiring environment for high-quality contemporary art.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned vet, this year you’re sure to find inspiration for that piece you’ve been searching for!
Here are some highlights from the upcoming Love Art Fair, Scotiabank Photography Award and the CONTACT Photography Festival…
Love Art Fair
Unicorn by Marjorie Campbell
Alison Milne Gallery
On display at the Thompson Toronto Hotel, April 7-16
Available for purchase at Love Art Fair, April 17-19
This life size sculpture is made of wool, wire, glass marbles, thread, found wood, and gold leaf, by Marjorie Campbell, a fibre artist who resides in Toronto. Inspired by forest and fauna, her work is both realistic and whimsical. She explores the possibilities of felt in a soft and gentle world where life is heightened and magic exists. As wool is pulled and forms are sculpted, alluring and complex worlds emerge, and the persona of the animal reveals itself.
Scotiabank Photography Award
Self-Portrait as Edmund Precelman (Officer) b. Poland, 1890s d. Poland, early 1940s by Rafael Goldchain
Rafael Goldchain is one of the three finalists competing for the 2015 Scotiabank Photography Award, alongside Angela Grauerholz and Isabelle Hayeur. This year’s SPA winner will be announced on May 6.
This photograph is a part of Goldchain’s “I Am My Family”, a collection of digitally altered self-portrait photographs where Goldchain re-enacts familial others through genetic resemblance. Through the conventions of the portrait photograph, these self-portraits suggest that we look at family photographs in order to know ourselves through the photographic trace left by our lost ancestors.
CONTACT Photography Festival
Water Pump With Hoses on Orange by Jimmy Limit
On display at Clint Roenish Gallery from April 30-May 30, and on billboards across Canada from May 1-31.
This photograph is a part of Surplus, Jimmy Limit’s featured exhibition at CONTACT. For his compositions, Jimmy Limit selects objects based on their formal qualities, often avoiding items with clear functions. Inspired by industrial supply catalogues and store flyers, the St. Catharines, Ontario-based artist uses colourful hardware store goods and industrial or domestic wares. He lifts these common objects out of context, alters their appearance, and combines them in strange and compelling ways. His precariously-arranged scenes may only last for a moment, but his seductive images have the deceptive gloss of advertisements. Limit’s photographs conflate function, merchandising, and desire, drawing attention to the complex relationship between product and consumer.
What’s your favourite piece of art? Tweet us at @NatashaNKPR!
For the past few months, Jack Daniel’s JD Supporting Acthas been making musical dreams come to life for young artists across Canada. The calibre of talent and the love for music in our country is nothing short of incredible (can we talk about Alanis Morisette at the Junos, anyone?).
In Jack Daniel’s Supporting Act’s inaugural year, over 65 Canadian artists shared their musically-driven stories in a short 60-second video outlining what they need to make their dreams a reality. Over the course of 16 weeks, the contestants were narrowed down by a panel of judges and one artist was chosen every two weeks winning everything from electronic drum sets to touring the UK! Now you have the chance to be a part of someone’s musical journey to stardom!
This week it’s up to you to vote on the finalists to decide who will be receiving the JD Supporting Act Fan Choice Award! From March 13-25 your votes will decide who the final winner is!
Winner 1: Tim Popek – The music teacher won an electronic drum set, recording software and a new computer, allowing him to create an online drumming school.
Winner 2: Kink the Band – The duo, who strives to promote female empowerment in rock and roll, won funds to record their first album with local Toronto producer Jason Pierce.
Winner 3: Young Running – The folk rock group won funds towards a Western Canada Tour. The band just returned home after three weeks living out their dream playing music in the Rocky Mountains.
Winner 4: Stone Iris – After winning Indie Week Canada, the band from Alberta had the opportunity to play Indie Week UK. Jack Daniel’s gave them the means to tour the UK before their headlining experience.
Winner 5: Sidney York – The indie avant-pop duo from Calgary received funds to produce and market their new album release, showcasing their talent for playing instruments seldom seen beyond the orchestra pit.
Winner 6: Bathurst Station – The up and coming Toronto band was the second to win an opportunity to tour the UK.
Winner 7: The Elwins – Hailing from Keswick, Ontario, this group of long-time friends received funds to purchase new instruments to complete their world-wide tour, aiming to sound better than ever on stage.
Winner 8: JD Supporting Act Fan Choice
Which musical act is your favourite? Tweet us at @NatashaNKPR!
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