Scruplz 50,000L Winning Photograph!

Congratulations to Melanie Sautereau for winning the Scruplz 50,000L Show Us Your Sunshine Photography contest!

Scruplz August 2010 Issue!

Pick up your copy at any Scruplz Kiosk or view the online version at http://issuu.com/scruplz/docs/scruplzaugust2010

Only 5 days left for the Scruplz $50,000L Photo Contest

“Show Us Your Sunshine”
Scruplz Photography Competition

To celebrate the launch of Scruplz Publications, we are proud to announce the launch of the summer’s newest and hottest photography competition. We are searching for the brightest talent in SL to show the world just how good you are and we’ll show them INSIDE our magazine!
Scruplz announces the launch of this summer’s hottest themed photography contest, “Show us your Sunshine!”
All submissions will be reviewed by a panel of leading SL models, designers and fashion photographers to choose the photograph that demonstrates the best levels of artistic, creative and technical excellence in addition to showcasing the model that shines through above all others in terms of look, poise and styling.
Contestants should submit one (1) photograph corresponding to the category of this contests theme “Show us your Sunshine”.   Each image should include only one model, no text except for the artist’s signature in the lower right, using size 10 Ariel font at 30% transparency. The entrant must have full rights to the image being submitted for consideration.  Size specifications are 1:1 ratio, i.e.: 1024×1024 with a minimum of 150 dpi.
The photograph, in its entirety, must be a single work of original material taken for the purpose of this contest only.  By entering the contest, entrant represents, acknowledges and warrants that the submitted photograph is an original work and the photograph does not infringe on the copyrights, trademarks, moral rights, rights of privacy/publicity or intellectual property rights of any person or entity, and that no other party has any right, title, claim or interest in the photograph.
The photograph must not, in the sole and unfettered discretion of Scruplz Publications, contain obscene, defamatory, sexually explicit, or otherwise objectionable or inappropriate content.
Submission of said photograph(s) will constitute full permissions given to Scruplz Publications to use as deemed necessary.
Only original as yet unpublished work will be accepted (previous publication via any electronic or print medium is strictly prohibited and will thereby be disqualified).
All photos will be submitted via email or in world.  If submitting via email, send to scruplz@gmail.com.  Name the photograph: Scruplz Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe.  In the email please provide all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.
If sending in world, send to Cherie Parker in a folder.  Name the photograph and the folder: Scruplz Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe.  Please include a notecard providing all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.
Using photo manipulation software such as Photoshop is acceptable and encouraged with the exception of “morphing” which is strictly prohibited.
Absolutely only ONE photograph per entrant.
Submission deadline is midnight July 27, 2010.
Winning images will be published in the Scruplz August 2010 issue, on Scruplz website and/or blog and the Scruplz Flickr page.
By entering the contest, all entrants grant an irrevocable perpetual non-exclusive license to Scruplz Publications, and the owners of Scruplz, to reproduce, distribute, display and create derivative works of the entries (along with a name credit) in connection with the contest and promotion of the contest, in any media now or hereafter known, including, but not limited to: Display at a potential exhibition or online. Display or publication of any entry on an authorized party’s website does not indicate the entrant will be selected as a winner. Additionally, by entering, each entrant grants to Scruplz Publications the unrestricted right to use all statements made in connection with the contest, and pictures, or choose not to do so, at their sole discretion. Scruplz Publications will not be required to pay any additional consideration or seek any additional approval in connection with such use.
Prizes:
Cash Prize of 50,000L
Winning shot will be featured  inside the August issue of Scruplz Magazine.
The winning photographer will be the exclusive photographer of the August Scruplz fashion feature for a major SL designer.
Winning photographer will receive a PhotoLife Certificate Valued at $9,900L

July 2010 Scruplz Issue and 50,000L Contest!

 

The July Issue of Scruplz is out NOW! 

Pick up your copy at http://slurl.com/secondlife/Mallory%20Cove/206/42/25
“Show Us Your Sunshine”
Scruplz Photography Competition

To celebrate the launch of Scruplz Publications, we are proud to announce the launch of the summer’s newest and hottest photography competition. We are searching for the brightest talent in SL to show the world just how good you are and we’ll show them INSIDE our magazine!

Scruplz announces the launch of this summer’s hottest themed photography contest, “Show us your Sunshine!”

All submissions will be reviewed by a panel of leading SL models, designers and fashion photographers to choose the photograph that demonstrates the best levels of artistic, creative and technical excellence in addition to showcasing the model that shines through above all others in terms of look, poise and styling.

Contestants should submit one (1) photograph corresponding to the category of this contests theme “Show us your Sunshine”.   Each image should include only one model, no text except for the artist’s signature in the lower right, using size 10 Ariel font at 30% transparency. The entrant must have full rights to the image being submitted for consideration.  Size specifications are 1:1 ratio, i.e.: 1024×1024 with a minimum of 150 dpi.

The photograph, in its entirety, must be a single work of original material taken for the purpose of this contest only.  By entering the contest, entrant represents, acknowledges and warrants that the submitted photograph is an original work and the photograph does not infringe on the copyrights, trademarks, moral rights, rights of privacy/publicity or intellectual property rights of any person or entity, and that no other party has any right, title, claim or interest in the photograph.

The photograph must not, in the sole and unfettered discretion of Scruplz Publications, contain obscene, defamatory, sexually explicit, or otherwise objectionable or inappropriate content.

Submission of said photograph(s) will constitute full permissions given to Scruplz Publications to use as deemed necessary.

Only original as yet unpublished work will be accepted (previous publication via any electronic or print medium is strictly prohibited and will thereby be disqualified).

All photos will be submitted via email or in world.  If submitting via email, send to scruplz@gmail.com.  Name the photograph: Scruplz Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe.  In the email please provide all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.

If sending in world, send to Cherie Parker in a folder.  Name the photograph and the folder: Scruplz Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe.  Please include a notecard providing all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.

Using photo manipulation software such as Photoshop is acceptable and encouraged with the exception of “morphing” which is strictly prohibited.

Absolutely only ONE photograph per entrant.
Submission deadline is midnight July 27, 2010.

Winning images will be published in the Scruplz August 2010 issue, on Scruplz website and/or blog and the Scruplz Flickr page.

By entering the contest, all entrants grant an irrevocable perpetual non-exclusive license to Scruplz Publications, and the owners of Scruplz, to reproduce, distribute, display and create derivative works of the entries (along with a name credit) in connection with the contest and promotion of the contest, in any media now or hereafter known, including, but not limited to: Display at a potential exhibition or online. Display or publication of any entry on an authorized party’s website does not indicate the entrant will be selected as a winner. Additionally, by entering, each entrant grants to Scruplz Publications the unrestricted right to use all statements made in connection with the contest, and pictures, or choose not to do so, at their sole discretion. Scruplz Publications will not be required to pay any additional consideration or seek any additional approval in connection with such use.

Prizes:
Cash Prize of 50,000L
Winning shot will be featured  inside the August issue of Scruplz Magazine.
The winning photographer will be the exclusive photographer of the August Scruplz fashion feature for a major SL designer.
Winning photographer will receive a PhotoLife Certificate Valued at $9,900L

Show Us Your Sunshine 50,000L Competition Update

Show Us Your Sunshine Competition Update

There appeared to have been some confusion with the entry method and some entries were not received due to this confusion.  Therefore, a decision has been made to extend the deadline to July 27, 2010 with the winner being published in the August issue.

In addition, entries can be sent either to scruplz@gmail.com or to Cherie Parker directly in world.

For entrants that have already submitted photos, you may choose to resubmit a new photo to take advantadge of the extended time if you choose to do so.

We apologize for the mix up and wish all entrants best of luck!

Sincerely,

The Scruplz Publishing Group

———————————————————————-

“Show Us Your Sunshine”
Scruplz Photography Competition

To celebrate the launch of Scruplz Publications, we are proud to announce the launch of the summer’s newest and hottest photography competition. We are searching for the brightest talent in SL to show the world just how good you are and we’ll show them INSIDE our magazine!

Scruplz announces the launch of this summer’s hottest themed photography contest, “Show us your Sunshine!”

All submissions will be reviewed by a panel of leading SL models, designers and fashion photographers to choose the photograph that demonstrates the best levels of artistic, creative and technical excellence in addition to showcasing the model that shines through above all others in terms of look, poise and styling.

Contestants should submit one (1) photograph corresponding to the category of this contests theme “Show us your Sunshine”.   Each image should include only one model, no text except for the artist’s signature in the lower right, using size 10 Ariel font at 30% transparency. The entrant must have full rights to the image being submitted for consideration.  Size specifications are 1:1 ratio, i.e.: 1024×1024 with a minimum of 150 dpi.

The photograph, in its entirety, must be a single work of original material taken for the purpose of this contest only.  By entering the contest, entrant represents, acknowledges and warrants that the submitted photograph is an original work and the photograph does not infringe on the copyrights, trademarks, moral rights, rights of privacy/publicity or intellectual property rights of any person or entity, and that no other party has any right, title, claim or interest in the photograph.

The photograph must not, in the sole and unfettered discretion of Scruplz Publications, contain obscene, defamatory, sexually explicit, or otherwise objectionable or inappropriate content.

Submission of said photograph(s) will constitute full permissions given to Scruplz Publications to use as deemed necessary.

Only original as yet unpublished work will be accepted (previous publication via any electronic or print medium is strictly prohibited and will thereby be disqualified).

All photos will be submitted via email or in world to.  If submitting via email, send to scruplz@gmail.com.  Name the photograph: Scruplz Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe.  In the email please provide all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.

If sending in world, send to Cherie Parker in a folder.  Name the photograph and the folder: Scruplz Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe.  Please include a notecard providing all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.

Using photo manipulation software such as Photoshop is acceptable and encouraged with the exception of “morphing” which is strictly prohibited.

Absolutely only ONE photograph per entrant.
Submission deadline is midnight July 27, 2010.

Winning images will be published in the Scruplz August 2010 issue, on Scruplz website and/or blog and the Scruplz Flickr page.

By entering the contest, all entrants grant an irrevocable perpetual non-exclusive license to Scruplz Publications, and the owners of Scruplz, to reproduce, distribute, display and create derivative works of the entries (along with a name credit) in connection with the contest and promotion of the contest, in any media now or hereafter known, including, but not limited to: Display at a potential exhibition or online. Display or publication of any entry on an authorized party’s website does not indicate the entrant will be selected as a winner. Additionally, by entering, each entrant grants to Scruplz Publications the unrestricted right to use all statements made in connection with the contest, and pictures, or choose not to do so, at their sole discretion. Scruplz Publications will not be required to pay any additional consideration or seek any additional approval in connection with such use.

Prizes:
Cash Prize of 50,000L
Winning shot will be featured  inside the August issue of Scruplz Magazine.
The winning photographer will be the exclusive photographer of the August Scruplz fashion feature for a major SL designer.
Winning photographer will receive a PhotoLife Certificate Valued at $9,900L

50,000L Photo Contest Details inside the June Issue of Scruplz!

If you're interested in winning 50,000L then pick up the June issue of Scruplz magazine in world or online to find out how you can win!

PRESS RELEASE: Scruplz June Photography Competition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 8, 2010

“Show us your Sunshine”
Scruplz June Photography Competition

To celebrate the launch of Scruplz Publications, we are proud to announce the launch of the summer’s newest and hottest photography competition. We are searching for the brightest talent in SL to show the world just how good you are and we’ll show them INSIDE our magazine!

Scruplz announces the launch of this summer’s hottest themed photography contest, “Show us your Sunshine!”

All submissions will be reviewed by a panel of leading SL models, designers and fashion     photographers to choose the photograph that demonstrates the best levels of artistic, creative and     technical excellence in addition to showcasing the model that shines through above all others in     terms of look, poise and styling.

Contestants should submit one (1) photograph corresponding to the category of this contests theme “Show us your Sunshine”.   Each image should include only one model, no text except for the artist’s signature in the lower right, using size 10 Ariel font at 30% transparency. The entrant must have full rights to the image being submitted for consideration.  Size specifications are 1:1 ratio, i.e.: 1024x1024 with a minimum of 150 dpi.

The photograph, in its entirety, must be a single work of original material taken for the purpose of this contest only.  By entering the contest, entrant represents, acknowledges and warrants that the submitted photograph is an original work and the photograph does not infringe on the copyrights, trademarks, moral rights, rights of privacy/publicity or intellectual property rights of any person or entity, and that no other party has any right, title, claim or interest in the photograph.

The photograph must not, in the sole and unfettered discretion of Scruplz Publications, contain obscene, defamatory, sexually explicit, or otherwise objectionable or inappropriate content.

Submission of said photograph(s) will constitute full permissions given to Scruplz Publications to use as deemed necessary.

Only original as yet unpublished work will be accepted (previous publication via any electronic or print medium is strictly prohibited and will thereby be disqualified.

All photos will be submitted via email to scruplz@gmail.com.  Name the photograph: Scruplz June Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe.  In the email please provide all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.

Using photo manipulation software such as Photoshop is acceptable and encouraged with the exception of “morphing” which is strictly prohibited.

Absolutely only ONE photograph per entrant.
Submission deadline is midnight June 22, 2010.


Winning images will be published in the Scruplz July 2010 issue, on Scruplz website and/or blog and the Scruplz Flickr page.

By entering the contest, all entrants grant an irrevocable perpetual non-exclusive license to Scruplz Publications, and the owners of Scruplz, to reproduce, distribute, display and create derivative works of the entries (along with a name credit) in connection with the contest and promotion of the contest, in any media now or hereafter known, including, but not limited to: Display at a potential exhibition or online. Display or publication of any entry on an authorized party's website does not indicate the entrant will be selected as a winner. Additionally, by entering, each entrant grants to Scruplz Publications the unrestricted right to use all statements made in connection with the contest, and pictures, or choose not to do so, at their sole discretion. Scruplz Publications will not be required to pay any additional consideration or seek any additional approval in connection with such use.

Prizes:
Cash Prize of 50,000L
Winning shot will be featured  inside
the July issue of Scruplz Magazine.
The winning photographer will be
the exclusive photographer of the
July Scruplz fashion feature for a
major SL designer.
Winning photographer will receive a PhotoLife Certificate
Valued at $9,900L

****Press Release****

********************
For Immediate Release
Scruplz Publishing Group
May 6, 2010
********************
The Scruplz Publishing Group is seeking ia layout artist for it’s publication, Scruplz.  The right candidate will have working knowledge and experience of InDesign software and PhotoShop.  Seeking serious minded professional candidates only.  Please apply to scruplz@gmail.com with resume,salary requirements and examples of work.
The Scruplz Publishing Group
Barney Roundel
Cherie Parker
Emma Portilo
Mallory Luke


For more information regarding Scruplz go to http://scruplz.com/

Scruplz Publications May 2010 Issue is HERE!

The very first issue of Scruplz Publications is now available! Feel free to contact Emma Portilo for a kiosk, hop by the Scruplz office at http://slurl.com/secondlife/Isoropia%20Paradise/205/42/25 or surf over on the web at http://issuu.com/scruplz/docs/scruplzmay2010 to check out the inaugural issue of Scruplz! 

A huge thank you to all who contributed to our first issue! The Scruplz Team 

********PRESS RELEASE********

****************************************
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Scruplz Publishing Group
April 13, 2010
****************************************

We are pleased to announce the formation of the Scruplz Publishing Group.  Scruplz is a new publishing company in Second Life whose mission is to provide photographers/artists/designers and anyone associated with graphics in Second Life with fair, honest and credible professional events and coverage.  Part of this effort includes a professional monthly publication in which events and products will be promoted to the Second Life community at large.  The publishing group consists of two of Second Life’s most renowned photographers, Cherie Parker and Barney Roundel. In addition two of Second Life’s best business minds Mallory Luke, and Emma Portilo combine to make Scruplz one of the most well rounded, talent laden new companies to arrive on the scene in Second Life.

Scruplz will be launching it’s first publication starting May 2010.  The publication will feature art and photography of unparalleled, unique, and captivating beauty and style, bringing virtual art to the virtual forefront.  Also featured in the publication will be a wide variety of contests and competitions from all walks of virtual life.

The exciting initial release will potentially be distributed to thousands of readers.  It will be offered on our website at www.scruplz.com, at www.issuu.com/Scruplz, and in the format of an in world publication.

In addition, we have a kiosk system available to subscribe to in order to receive our publications and updates.  The kiosk system can be found at the Scruplz headquarters at http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Isoropia%20Paradise/206/41/26.

Contact Mallory Luke or Emma Portilo for advertising, kiosk, or other additional information.

The Scruplz Publishing Group
Cherie Parker
Barney Roundel
Mallory Luke
Emma Portilo

OPIUM Fashion Agency Oops!

For those who have asked me what happened to the photo used in the advertisement by Opium Fashion Agency in the April 2010 edition of Second Style magazine, the following recent blog posting by OPIUM should explain things. 

http://opiuminsight.com/?p=14889

For all who have contacted me in world and out, I deeply appreciate your support and kind words.

If you care to see the advertisement in it’s original format, an arrangement has been reached between Anastacia Markova, CEO, Opium Fashion Agency, Romeo Torvalar, General Manager of Graphic Design and myself  for OFA to place the ad once again in Second Style magazine for the month of May.

Should you wish to view the original copy prior to publication in Second Style, please feel free to see that here or on my flickr page at:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cherieparker/4482668389/

I don't like to boast about my own work. But I will say this has to be, of all the photos I’ve created, my personal favorite. I personally want to thank the following models who made this photo as special as I believe it is.  

A huge and heartfelt THANK YOU! to, Katina Magic, Wicca Merlin, Pumpkin Saenz and Trouble Inglewood.  You guys truly make this photo what it is and for that I thank you all. 

Cherie Parker 

Exclusive Studios

Real Life Headlines

And just when you think certain headlines happen only in Second Life....

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/north_east/8570398.stm

The Bucket List

Contrary to popular belief, I am still alive and kicking.  Yes, while it’s true I haven’t blogged in quite some time, I am very much alive albeit it’s sometimes hard to tell being buried in photo shoots and Photoshop post production. However, I’ve really wanted to do this post for a long time and just now forced myself to “make the time”.  

My typical day begins early and consists of me waking, drinking or rather, mainlining about ninety six ounces of coffee before I’m able to move on to some more rigorous tasks such as personal hygiene. Then it’s right to work on my PC picking up wherever I left off the night before in post production. I don’t spend a great deal of time in world anymore and unless I’ve got a photo shoot or the increasingly rare fashion show I model in you probably won’t see me online.  Most of my time, up to 16 hours a day can be spent behind the screen processing one photo after another. Sometimes during this process and in order to keep my sanity I’ll stop and read the fashion feeds.

The other day whilst taking a moment and perusing the feeds I came across a blog posting where one blogger made mention she was under a form of verbal attack via Plurk or some other social networking place. She went on to say this attack now spilled over into Second Life gaining momentum and had quite the following of rumor rats. She didn’t really go into detail and while this is nothing new to Second Life and I’ve surely seen worse or at the very least more in depth public character floggings on the basis of “he said, she said”, it prompted me to do what I’ve wanted to get done for several months now. Giving me the virtual kick in the pants to write something I felt was important and make my “Bucket List” before I kick the bucket.  

I said above I forced myself to “make the time” because, as humans we tend to say, I can’t find the time, I don’t have enough time, a lot.  I’m no different. I am constantly battling the clock. And typically the clock wins and I lose. At the end of the day I usually find I wished I had done this, or that, had taken the time to do this rather than that. Many times I’ll fall asleep feeling pretty bad for not “making the time” for something.

So this is me now making the time for something I think we all should do more of and that would be, less bitching and more praise.

I have the great fortune to have a very long list of friends on my contacts list. Some you would recognize the names of, some you wouldn’t. Some quite famous for their in world creations and popularity, others you’ve probably never heard of they’re all equally important to me.

It’s from this list that I’ve been meaning to pull a few names, and give well deserved, long, LONG,  over due, thank you, good job, and attaboys, to.  And, I’m going to challenge each of you to do the same thing. Find those people in your list that are content creators, designers, scripters, builders that you know for a fact should be called out for being the great people they are and give them the praise they rightly deserve.

Seriously people, it’s just as easy doing something uplifting, inspiring and nice as it is to be disparaging and ugly. And trust me, it feels better to. So come on…make a list, pick your three, or four or however many you want and let’s hear why you think they deserve a pat on the back. Here’s my list.

1. Minnu Palen

You all know Minnu Palen and if don’t evidently you’ve been living under a virtual rock for a long time. The Lelutka brand is a driving force in the Second Life fashion industry. If you’re looking for top notch haute couture, you need look no further than the Lelutka brand. The people associated with and make up what is Lelutka have slowly but steadily built a major brand in the SL fashion market from clothing, hair, eyes, shoes to of course skins.  Now none of this was accomplished overnight. And certainly not alone. Minnu has been blessed to know and to work with some of the brightest most talented people in SL. And they are fiercely loyal to her and with good reason.  

Now I’m sure you all have seen her skin mentioned in just about every other blog posting of late. Her skinning creations are nothing short of stunning and continue to raise the bar with each new release. In addition, the creative forces behind Minnu are equally as talented and they all share a common thread. They’re all very quiet, hard working, unassuming individuals and some of the most bright, creative, talented people I know.

See while you may know the brand, the products and the names, what you may not know is what they’re like as people.

Minnu Palen by far as got to be one of the kindest people I know here in SL. She is always there for a friend and if she is your friend, you’re a lucky individual indeed. Minnu Palen is always ready to lend support to a cause. She never boasts or blows her own horn in what she does for others; she just steps up and does it. She is a strong woman with great determination and mad skills to boot. She’s kind, funny, wicked intelligent and not afraid to be original in thought and design. She is at the top of my SL hero list and all I can say is I am so very lucky to know her.

I had the good fortune to take part in the fashion show a couple of months ago releasing her most recent fashion line. I’m here to tell you that after countless numbers of shows I’ve been in and in working with dozens of modeling agencies and production companies, for the past three years, I have never been associated with one as comprehensive as the one Lelutka put on.  By and far the most well organized and perfectly executed show I’ve had the good fortune to be in.

Minnu thought of everything. I’m not kidding. Everything was provided to the models from hair, shoes, accessories, to poses. Fittings were done individually to make sure each design was a perfect fit. When we walked out onto the stage there was no question every detail had been prepared for and thought of. Even the audience had special costumes to wear in order to keep lag to a minimum; it was awesome to say the least.

In addition to that, and I hope not to embarrass Minnu, this was one of the best compensated show’s EVER in the three years I’ve been modeling here in SL.

You see, that’s Minnu. She doesn’t look at the people working for her and think, “They should be happy to work for me simply because I am who I am”, that is so not her. Minnu values the people she hires and treats them in such a way as there is NO mistaking that fact. I will say it again, she is by and far the most generous person I know here in Second Life and truly I am a lucky person for knowing her.

I know by now Minnu is probably covering her face reading this but I wanted her to know how very much I value her not only as someone I work with on occasion, but as a friend. I want everyone to now know what special individual she really is.

I’ve asked Minnu time and time again  if I can have her prim babies but to date she has yet to agree. I’m going to keep asking. And Minnu just so you know, I love you like pie and think you’re the greatest thing since flexi prims.  ;) 

2. Austie Pegler-Reasonable Desires

Ahhh... Austie… what can I say about her other than I just adore her. Well let’s see what more I can come up with.  ;) You may not know her name but I’m pretty sure you’re familiar with her brand Reasonable Desires.

Austie and her partner Martini Joliat  have been creating cute costumes and outfits as long as I’ve been here, I’m not certain exactly when they opened but at least since 2006.  Together they’ve created a niche in SL costume work and more recently have secured a big following for their beautiful, sexy and sultry lingerie.

And while I love, love, LOVE their work, that’s not what I’m here to say.

You see Austie has been sending me review copies of their Reasonable Desires creations for a long time. Back in the day I had time to review and blog some of those items and had a blast doing so as they were always so fun to review. It was sooo clear they had a blast designing things like their version of Little Red Riding Hood, or Alice in Wonderland.  But sadly since my photography business has taken off in leaps and bounds I have been unable to keep up with reviewing items. That hasn’t stopped Austie from sending me things. You know why? Because that’s how she rolls. She’s just that way. She’s a friend on top of being a creator. She knows I’m out of my mind busy. She has not once made me feel bad (although I have) about not making the time to blog a review on her items. She’s an amazing person, an amazing creator and a good friend. It’s never about how much someone can do for her; it seems it’s always the other way around. Again we’ve got a person here, a designer that is quiet, unassuming and hard working. She doesn’t ask for or have anyone blow her horn. But they should.

Austie and Martini create some of the most well designed comprehensive outfits on the grid. Their costumes are so all encompassing, providing every little detail to make the costume as complete as possible in every way, easy to just throw on and ready to go to whatever event you bought the outfit for. These two people must think exhaustively for every detail that goes into their designs.   If you’re looking for something completely unusual and totally cool, then check out Reasonable Desires you may just find it there.

Beyond the great designs, past the longevity of the brand Reasonable Desires is my friend Austie Pegler. If you’re lucky enough to be able to call her a friend you’re a very lucky person. Kind, generous to a fault and funny Austie is one of those people you hope will never leave SL because you know if there’s anything she can do for you, she will. And without her here the grid would shine less brightly.  She’s not just a pretty face mind you, she’s a great business woman and a talented designer. But more importantly, at least to me, she’s a great friend, one I admire greatly and someone I want to know.

Austie, I think you’re doing a great job, I love your work, I love you sweetie and I think you’re just the bees knees.  J

3. Gospel Voom -Gos

You may not know this name or this brand yet. But mark my words it won’t be long before you do. While Gospel has not built a huge following for his brand quite yet, as he is another slow but steady achiever, he has some seriously mad sculpting skills and I’m going to say, put this one on the radar.  

Gospel has a great profile. It reads like a who’s who of Second Life and moreover a wonderful resume. Gospel is a builder first before anything else. And the things he builds or creates are so awesome its just mind blowing. His 3d sculpted work is some of the best I’ve ever seen. The textures and clean designs he creates are simply top notch.

I don’t believe he’s gotten the recognition he deserves quite yet. But mark my words, if he keeps up this pace it won’t be long before every one has several Gos products in their inventory.

 Gospel Voom makes things. Things like killer realistic watches, sunglasses and amazing Doc Marten boots. See the picture. These are seriously, visual eye candy. Just the most stunning boots. Each detail more precise than the next. I’m going to go with a guess here; he’s the OCD man of my dreams as far as working on something till the very last pixel is perfection. Truly, this guy is mega talented. There is no question he can build and texture at the top of his class. In addition, he’s also lucky to have people that work for him that again are quietly unassuming and possess mad skills such as scripting. Take a look at what you can purchase for the boots. A little can of shoe polish (and its soooo cute) that allows you to change the texture and color of the boots, the trim, the eyelets everything. He credits his scripter for helping to make these truly cool and fun creations.

Gospel and I met by some fairly funny means that I won’t go into here but suffice it to say he had no reason to trust me, as he didn’t know me from Adam. But after a few conversations and yes even some heated debates, it was clear that while we may not have a standard friendship in SL, we do have mutual respect and value one another’s opinions.

Gospel here you go buddy, you’re number three on the list of people I wanted to send a virtual “pat on the back” to. You deserve it and I hope others will come to know you and your creations like I have.

Well, that’s my list people. Let’s see you post some of your own now. Pick some people... blog em... tell us why they’re special to you, give them the pat on the back they deserve and pay it forward. 

PS As always please forgive any and all grammatical errors. Thanks!