Vote Now – Jack Daniel's Supporting Act Fan Choice Award

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For the past few months, Jack Daniel’s JD Supporting Act has 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!

 

Watch the finalist’s videos here: http://www.jdsupportingact.com/videos

 

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Previous JD Supporting Act Winners: 

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!

Nastia Liukin – Competing on Dancing With The Stars

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We are so proud and excited for our very own NK Artist and Olympic gold medalist, Nastia Liukin, to compete on this season of ABC’s Dancing With The Stars (DWTS)! In its tenth year and twentieth season (wow!), we can’t wait to watch Nastia bring her grace, strength, and undeniable beauty to the DWTS dance floor and inevitably to Mirror Ball victory!

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Image via People Magazine

Nastia never shies away from a busy schedule. As a full-time student at New York University, a Subway sandwich ambassador, NBC analyst and creator of Supergirl by Nastia, she manages it all with a natural ease only an Olympic champion can relate to.

A true match made in heaven, Nastia has been paired with five time Dancing With The Stars Champion, Derek Hough. With Nastia balancing classes at NYU and Derek busy with Move Live Tour, “Team Houghkin” is the only DWTS pair to rehearse in NYC (one of our favourite cities) and is already deemed the crowd favourite and pair to watch!

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Watch the premiere episode Monday, March 16th at 8:00pm EST. Stay tuned for details on how to vote for Team Houghkin!

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Image via ABC Dancing With the Stars

 

Follow @NatashaNKPR for an inside look at Nastia and Derek’s Dancing With The Stars journey!

57th Grammy Awards: Top Red Carpet Looks

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Music’s biggest night not only brought some epic performances (can we talk about Hozier and Annie Lennox?!), it also gave us some show-stopping fashion! Yesterday at the 57th Grammy Awards, we witnessed some impeccable outfits on the red carpet.

From the women, we saw a lot of black, some seriously sexy lace, and the most dramatic deep-v’s we’ve seen in a while. The men’s fashion didn’t disappoint either with trendy black-on-navy combos, dapper hats and accessories reminiscent of 50’s sophistication!

Although there was a fair share of “oh no’s” (we’re talking to you Lady Gaga and Rihanna!), there were certainly more “wow’s” on the red carpet!

Check out some of our favourite looks from last night…

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Beyoncé in custom Proenza Schouler

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Chrissy Teigen in Pucci

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Gwen Stefani in Atelier Versace

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Taylor Swift in Elie Saab

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Jesse J in Ralph and Russo

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Pharrell in Adidas (with wife Helen Lasichanh)

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John Mayer

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Ne-Yo in Marc Jacobs

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John Legend in Dolce & Gabbana

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Sam Smith in Armani

What are your favourite looks from last night’s red carpet? Tweet us @natashankpr!

Valentine’s Day Dinner Guide

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It’s no secret that the way to anyone’s heart (male or female, let’s be honest…) is through their stomach. And what better reason to enjoy a delicious, mind-blowing feast than on Valentine’s Day?

This year, treat that special someone to one of Toronto’s best restaurants for a meal that will be as unforgettable as the time you spend together.

We’ve rounded up the best dishes from our favourite restaurants for you to enjoy this Valentine’s Day…

Montecito – 299 Adelaide St. West

Our Pick: Chef Jonathan Waxman’s JW Chicken

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Cibo Wine Bar – 522 King St West

Our Pick: Quattro Stagioni Pizza

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Ciao Wine Bar – 133 Yorkville Avenue

Our Pick: Chianti Braised Short Ribs

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Thompson Toronto Rooftop Lounge – 550 Wellington Street West

Our Pick: Grilled Salmon Fish Tacos

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Share your Valentine’s Day plans…Tweet us at @NatashaNKPR!

Valentine's Day Dinner Guide

Posted on

It’s no secret that the way to anyone’s heart (male or female, let’s be honest…) is through their stomach. And what better reason to enjoy a delicious, mind-blowing feast than on Valentine’s Day?

This year, treat that special someone to one of Toronto’s best restaurants for a meal that will be as unforgettable as the time you spend together.

We’ve rounded up the best dishes from our favourite restaurants for you to enjoy this Valentine’s Day…

Montecito – 299 Adelaide St. West

Our Pick: Chef Jonathan Waxman’s JW Chicken

Screen Shot 2015-02-08 at 1.23.21 PM

 

 

Cibo Wine Bar – 522 King St West

Our Pick: Quattro Stagioni Pizza

Screen Shot 2015-02-08 at 1.33.07 PM

 

Ciao Wine Bar – 133 Yorkville Avenue

Our Pick: Chianti Braised Short Ribs

Screen Shot 2015-02-08 at 1.45.05 PM

 

Thompson Toronto Rooftop Lounge – 550 Wellington Street West

Our Pick: Grilled Salmon Fish Tacos

Screen Shot 2015-02-08 at 2.13.49 PM

 

Share your Valentine’s Day plans…Tweet us at @NatashaNKPR!

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas – For Him & Her

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Ah, Valentine’s Day…that day of the year we’re reminded that love is special and most definitely worth celebrating. We’ve all seen our fair share of overly sized teddy bears, obnoxiously large boxes of chocolate, and instantly forgotten knick-knacks (cue eye rolls now…).

This year, we’ve decided to opt for the “wow” factor. To give that special someone something that shows you’re really thinking of them and something that shows you care beyond those typical cliché gifts.

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite products that will make this Valentine’s Day your best one yet…

For Her:

DAVIDsTEA – The Sweetheart Collection

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Saje Natural Wellness – The Goddess Fragrance

Goddess Perfume

 

Mulberry – Rose Gold Heart Keyring

RK0179_000J142For Him:

Hi-Tec Canada – Bazile Lux

bazile-lux-black-charcoal

 

 

 

Zwilling Canada – Chef Knives

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Rudsak – Black Leather iPad Case

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Tell us your favourite Valentine’s Day gift ideas…tweet us at @NatashaNKPR!

 

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas – For Him & Her

Posted on

Ah, Valentine’s Day…that day of the year we’re reminded that love is special and most definitely worth celebrating. We’ve all seen our fair share of overly sized teddy bears, obnoxiously large boxes of chocolate, and instantly forgotten knick-knacks (cue eye rolls now…).

This year, we’ve decided to opt for the “wow” factor. To give that special someone something that shows you’re really thinking of them and something that shows you care beyond those typical cliché gifts.

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite products that will make this Valentine’s Day your best one yet…

For Her:

DAVIDsTEA – The Sweetheart Collection

Screen Shot 2015-02-07 at 12.48.32 PM

Saje Natural Wellness – The Goddess Fragrance

Goddess Perfume

 

Mulberry – Rose Gold Heart Keyring

RK0179_000J142For Him:

Hi-Tec Canada – Bazile Lux

bazile-lux-black-charcoal

 

 

 

Zwilling Canada – Chef Knives

10321387

 

 

Rudsak – Black Leather iPad Case

Screen Shot 2015-02-07 at 1.26.33 PM

 

Tell us your favourite Valentine’s Day gift ideas…tweet us at @NatashaNKPR!

 

How To Maintain Your New Year’s Resolutions

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Olivia Wilde recently tweeted: “My [New Year’s] resolution died peacefully in a pizza box”.

Feel like you can relate? We all know how hard it is to keep our New Year’s Resolutions going strong past January, especially the ones which mean giving up some of our favourite (yet terribly unhealthy) snacks.

Luckily, there are some amazing products out there to help keep you on track with your 2015 goals. We’ve rounded up some of our favourites that will help you turn those personal promises into a sustainable lifestyle…

feautefinal

Manage Energy Levels: Energy Revitalizing Remedy from Saje Natural Wellness

Got the 3 o’clock blues? Instead of reaching for another cup of coffee, try Saje Natural Wellness‘ invigorating Energy Revitalizing Remedy. This topical roll-on combines essential oils, including uplifting peppermint, zesty lemon, stimulating rosemary and refreshing bergamot to combat fatigue, reduce tension and encourage mental focus. Bye bye fatigue, hello productivity!

Screen Shot 2015-01-27 at 3.21.25 PM

 

Stay Alcohol-Free – Shloer

If “cutting back” was on your list for the New Year, make Shloer your new best friend. This sparkling, non-alcoholic grape-based drink is perfect for any occasion! Offering two flavours, Red Grape and White Grape, Shloer contains zero preservatives, artificial colours, sweeteners or flavourings. The perfect wine alternative!

Shloer 750ml Red Grape - hi res copyShloer 750ml White Grape - hi res copy

 

Take Care of Your Skin – Racinne Lady I Cleansing Brush

The Lady I Facial Cleansing Machine system comes with 4 different interchangeable applicators to target specific skin concerns and is beneficial for any skin type! We love the facial brush to clean deep into pores and exfoliate skin. Try the sponge head to apply your serum for an even deeper absorption!LadyI_Front_4brush

Get Rid of Toxins – 24 Hour Face Cream from OURS by Cheryl Hickey

Meticulously designed with extra purity and care, this all over, long-lasting 24 Hour Face Cream is ideal for any skin type. Safe to use on children and hydrating enough for mom and dad, this gentle cream will help hydrate skin all day long leaving it feeling silky and dewy. Our favourite part? OURS by CH products are free of silicones, parabens, phthalates, fragrance, dyes, formaldehyde, PEG, petrochemical, and most common allergens!

24 Hour Face Cream

Eat Clean – Eat Nakd

The best way to eat clean in the New Year is to snack clean; this is the moment when Eat Nākd nutritious bars come in handy! These vegan, dairy-free, wheat-free bars are made from a cold-pressed mix of fruits and nuts. Available in four delicious flavour combinations – Cocoa Orange, Cashew Cookie, Cocoa Delight and Berry Delight – keep these desk-side for guilt-free snacking!

canadanakdgroup

Detoxify – DAVIDs TEA Detox Kit

The holidays are over…we’re back on the grind…but some of us still still crave that detox. Our favourite way (and the most delicious) comes in DAVIDsTEA’s Detox Kit. This collection of super-healthy teas are not only good for you, they taste amazing! From Yogi Berry to Japanese Sencha, Pu’erh Ginger to traditional Detox, starting fresh has never been tastier.

TheDetoxKit-2

 

What are your favourite ways to keep on track with New Year’s Resolutions? Tweet us @natashankpr!

How To Maintain Your New Year's Resolutions

Posted on

Olivia Wilde recently tweeted: “My [New Year’s] resolution died peacefully in a pizza box”.

Feel like you can relate? We all know how hard it is to keep our New Year’s Resolutions going strong past January, especially the ones which mean giving up some of our favourite (yet terribly unhealthy) snacks.

Luckily, there are some amazing products out there to help keep you on track with your 2015 goals. We’ve rounded up some of our favourites that will help you turn those personal promises into a sustainable lifestyle…

feautefinal

Manage Energy Levels: Energy Revitalizing Remedy from Saje Natural Wellness

Got the 3 o’clock blues? Instead of reaching for another cup of coffee, try Saje Natural Wellness‘ invigorating Energy Revitalizing Remedy. This topical roll-on combines essential oils, including uplifting peppermint, zesty lemon, stimulating rosemary and refreshing bergamot to combat fatigue, reduce tension and encourage mental focus. Bye bye fatigue, hello productivity!

Screen Shot 2015-01-27 at 3.21.25 PM

 

Stay Alcohol-Free – Shloer

If “cutting back” was on your list for the New Year, make Shloer your new best friend. This sparkling, non-alcoholic grape-based drink is perfect for any occasion! Offering two flavours, Red Grape and White Grape, Shloer contains zero preservatives, artificial colours, sweeteners or flavourings. The perfect wine alternative!

Shloer 750ml Red Grape - hi res copyShloer 750ml White Grape - hi res copy

 

Take Care of Your Skin – Racinne Lady I Cleansing Brush

The Lady I Facial Cleansing Machine system comes with 4 different interchangeable applicators to target specific skin concerns and is beneficial for any skin type! We love the facial brush to clean deep into pores and exfoliate skin. Try the sponge head to apply your serum for an even deeper absorption!LadyI_Front_4brush

Get Rid of Toxins – 24 Hour Face Cream from OURS by Cheryl Hickey

Meticulously designed with extra purity and care, this all over, long-lasting 24 Hour Face Cream is ideal for any skin type. Safe to use on children and hydrating enough for mom and dad, this gentle cream will help hydrate skin all day long leaving it feeling silky and dewy. Our favourite part? OURS by CH products are free of silicones, parabens, phthalates, fragrance, dyes, formaldehyde, PEG, petrochemical, and most common allergens!

24 Hour Face Cream

Eat Clean – Eat Nakd

The best way to eat clean in the New Year is to snack clean; this is the moment when Eat Nākd nutritious bars come in handy! These vegan, dairy-free, wheat-free bars are made from a cold-pressed mix of fruits and nuts. Available in four delicious flavour combinations – Cocoa Orange, Cashew Cookie, Cocoa Delight and Berry Delight – keep these desk-side for guilt-free snacking!

canadanakdgroup

Detoxify – DAVIDs TEA Detox Kit

The holidays are over…we’re back on the grind…but some of us still still crave that detox. Our favourite way (and the most delicious) comes in DAVIDsTEA’s Detox Kit. This collection of super-healthy teas are not only good for you, they taste amazing! From Yogi Berry to Japanese Sencha, Pu’erh Ginger to traditional Detox, starting fresh has never been tastier.

TheDetoxKit-2

 

What are your favourite ways to keep on track with New Year’s Resolutions? Tweet us @natashankpr!

Make Your Musical Dreams Come True – Jack Daniel's Supporting Act

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If you’ve been following our blog (say yes!) then you’ve witnessed the launch of Jack Daniel‘s incredible program, JD Supporting Act. As mentioned, the program is inspired by the iconic connection between the Tennessee whiskey brand and music.

To refresh your memory, the way it works is Canadians submit a quick 60-second video documenting personal stories and music wishes for the chance at a big break, dream concert tickets, new instruments, music lessons and more.

Jack Daniel’s released an inspiring video documenting the first music dreams fulfilled by Jack Daniel’s Supporting Act. A surprise appearance by Canadian rocker Sam Roberts gave emerging musicians Sam Cash & the Romantic Dogs some much-needed state-of-the-art studio time to record their next album.

Jack Daniel's Supporting Act

In honour of the program, we’ve rounded up NKPR’s biggest and wildest musical dreams

Natasha: Well I have been playing the piano since I was a little girl…Love it! And I LOVE Billy Joel.  My musical dream would be to meet him and watch him play and sing up close and personal in NYC.

Tory: To attend Britney Spears’ birthday party! Brit-brit turns 35 years of FABULOUS!

Aisha: I bought this insanely expensive sitar a few years ago…played it three times. Would love to learn how to play and tune it!

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Paula: I desperately want to learn how to play the piano…and sing like Celine Dion…and be her best friend.

Bunmi: To record my second album!

Rebecca: To start a band with Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen….and Pitbull.

Ashton: I want to hang out with Elvis…he’s still alive right?

Adrien: My dream is to do a duet of “I believe I can fly” on stage with R. Kelly.

Corinne: To go to the Grammy’s!

Olena: I want to go to Ultra music fest in Miami!

Kristin: I want a really hot man with a guitar to sing to me. It could be anybody really.

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Nathan: I want to go to Tomorrowland in Belgium!

Sana: I would like a private concert from the Spice Girls at Wembley Stadium.

Amanda: I’d like to hang out with Ed Sheeran…he seems fun.

Erin: My dream is to sound-proof my basement so that my hubby can play his drums as much as he wants without me and all of our neighbours knowing it!

Lauren: That I could still remember how to play every song I learned on the piano as a kid!

Shaun: I want peace, love and harmony through music!

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What’s your musical dream? Tell us at @NatashaNKPR or send in your video to www.jdsupportingact.com!