Blog Roll! – Page 9 – Travel With A Purpose

Level Up or Bow out !!!

Posted on August 8, 2015by admin

Level Up!

The name itself is catchy and surmises connotations of “pushing the bar” rather competing with your regular self to be your better and eventually best self.

Who is the mastermind behind Level Up?

Level Up is owned by former University of the West Indies graduate, Sevastar Ramlogan. Among many other accolades to this title he is also a model. Sevastar is a passionate, ambitious and a young entrepreneur. While fitness and health may not have been in his pursued field of study they are lifestyle traits that define the young Ramlogan. Sevastar is undeniably a fitness buff so he understands the plight of persons who would like to get fit and in shape for health reasons, athletic reasons or even just because they want to be their best self. His outgoing personality and love for life, health and fitness resulted in his lovechild; Level Up. Sevastar is always willing to go above and beyond for his clients to help them get on the right track to a healthier lifestyle. His mantra states, “Set your goals and achieve them! No-one is going to do it for you.”

(Photo Credit : Sevastar Ramlogan featured in OMG Magazine)

What is Level Up?

Level Up is a gym and supplement / nutrition store conveniently located along the Southern Main Road, Carapichaima in Central Trinidad. The customer service there is “leveling up” to premier products and premium quality just for you. Their opening hours are Monday – Friday from 10:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturdays – Sundays from 10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. The in store supplements include protein powders among other vital gym supplies for the fitness fanatic. The store has also expanded to include a gourmet health and food section. So persons who are dieting or have a fancy for gourmet food can also get their supplies right there. Some of these products include Greek yogurt, organic chocolate, quinoa pasta, gluten free flour, organic bread, almond butter, coconut water, health bars, snacks and so much more.

(Some delectable gluten free cinnamon raisin bread I baked from a gluten free bread mix I bought at Level Up! Who knew baking bread was this easy?! I just read the instructions, mixed the batter, allowed time for the raising of the bread. Then I popped that mix in the oven and voila!!!)

Level Up is also doing a promotion next week for all those health and fitness buffs!

There will be lots of samples and surprises in store!!!!

From the team at

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago

We would like to wish Sevastar Ramlogan

all the best in his endeavors !!!

To find out more on Level Up see their contact information listed for you below

https://www.facebook.com/Level.Up.Supplements/timeline

Call them at

745-8235

Breadfruit Cups – The Healthier Alternative

Posted on August 3, 2015by admin

Breakfast making can be so much work in the morning especially if you are not a morning person. Realistically, even if you are a morning person the struggle is still very real. Hence, in moments of extreme boredom or random bouts of creative vibes or if you are throwing a mini breakfast”fam bam” ( I have no idea why they use this word on social media but I believe they are connotations from an urban slang that translate to family get together) then something different like breadfruit cups just might be the smashing hit at your breakfast bar.

Nutrition

Breadfruit has similar properties to our age old friend Mr. Potato! It can be cooked and manipulated in so many different ways too. The nutritional content of the breadfruit indicates that it is high in potassium, vitamin C and it contains fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium and vitamin B-6. According to globalbreadfruit.com breadfruit is also a great source of antioxidants, carotenoids, copper, niacin, omega 3, omega 6, phosphorous, protein,thiamine and vitamin A.

Multipurpose

The breadfruit is being sought after for national food security as it can be grown as a sustainable crop throughout most parts of the world. In addition to this fact, it also has multipurpose uses. Again globalbreadfruit.com cites the mighty breadfruit uses. These include gluten free flour, insect repellant (male breadfruit flower), latex (sap from breadfruit used in watercraft and chewing gum), fabric ( fibers from the bark of the breadfruit tree can be used to make mosquito nets, accessories, clothing, artwork and paper), animal feed (fallen breadfruits and leaves can be used as nutritious animal feed).

(http://globalbreadfruit.com/about/why-breadfruit/ )

So now that you know how powerful this breadfruit is you may definitely consider serving this up to your family, friends and house guests. Here’s my breadfruit cup recipe below.

Ingredients

1 breadfruit (washed, peeled, chopped)

1 cup unsweetened almond milk

2 cups pepper jack cheese (shredded)

2 tablespoons garlic butter

1 carrot (washed, peeled, shredded)

1 teaspoon of salt

1 tablespoon dried seasoning (thyme, parsley, basil, oregano, chilli powder)

1 cake mixer (to mix the batter)

1 cup cake pan or mini cup cake pan

1 large pot

1 colander

1 large mixing bowl

Method

1. Set up a pot of water to boil

2. Add salt to the boiling water

3. Add the chopped breadfruit

4. Boil until soft

5. Strain off excess water from breadfruit in a colander

6. Add strained breadfruit to the mixing bowl

7. Add dried seasoning and carrot

8. Add 1and 1/2 cups of cheese

9. Add milk gradually while using the cake mixer to beat the mixture until smooth

10. Using the garlic butter grease the cupcake pan

11. Pre- heat the oven at 350 Degrees Fahrenheit

12. Pour in the patter to fill the cups leaving just a quarter space for the batter to expand when cooking

13. Allow to cook for 30 minutes to 1 hour or until toothpick when inserted comes out clean

14. When they are finished cooking use the remaining cheese and sprinkle to cover the surface of the cups.

15 . Allow to cool and serve warm or with a sauce (curry or tomato sauce or whatever your preference may be)

Enjoy !!!

Pumpkin Persuasion – A Muffin Affair

Posted on July 15, 2015by admin

I have always felt like pumpkin soup and traditional dishes of cooked pumpkin and roti or rice in Trinidad was just something that should not be cooked in that way. Pumpkin , I thought could be used in a latte or a tea, as the essential ingredient to a bread, a cake or even a smoothie. The texture, colour and sweetness of the pumpkin always enthused me to experiment with it in non traditional kitchen ways. Obviously, I am working on my menus, recipes and breakfast items. I thought the low fodmap diet should not only be healthy and attractive but it should be interesting and fun too! So I used pumpkin (not from a can but from the farmer’s market) and millet flour as my gluten free flour. The result was a week long supply of yummy breakfast muffins. So here is the recipe below just for you!

Ingredients

1/2 cup olive oil

3/4 cup brown sugar

2 eggs

2 cup pureed pumpkin (boil pumpkin until soft then process until smooth)

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 3/4 cup millet flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 cup coconut milk

1 semi sweet Hersheys Baking Bar of Chocolate

Method

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

Lightly grease muffin cups or line tray with paper liners.

Combine olive oil, brown sugar, eggs, milk, pumpkin puree and vanilla extract in one bowl.

In another bowl combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon.

Now add the dry to the wet ingredients.

Pour batter into muffin cups or paper lined cup cake trays (half full to allow them to rise when baking).

Add the chopped chocolate to each batter filled cup.

Bake for 20 – 45 minutes (use the toothpick test when the toothpick is inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean then it is ready).

Cool for 15 minutes or your desired muffin temperature and enjoy!

(I got more than the 8 muffins you see on this plate.

I got about 16 muffins but I used disposable, aluminum heart shaped pans)

N.B.

These muffins were stored in the refrigerator and lasted for a week.

Plantain Seduction – The Dessert Bar

Posted on July 9, 2015by admin

Well darlings, it seems like I will be stuck on this low fodmap diet for more time than anticipated. However, it seems to be working for now which only suggests healthier lifestyles and more adventures in the food laboratory aka my kitchen. (The low fodmap diet allows flexibility. Rather than off the shelf products that are too expensive the Caribbean dieter can use lots of available produce from their local farmers to sustain their diet and themselves). This also means I get to share my journey through the low fodmap diet with other fodmap dieters, the vegan community and just about any one of you interested in experiencing food differently. I am definitely not vegan but pescetarian; I consume seafood. Although, my recipes are somewhat restrictive due to the low fodmap regimen there is room for you or the vegan food lover to do substitution. The recipe I will share with you is a gluten free recipe for a plantain dessert bar or what one can refer to as “The Plantain Seduction.”

Ingredients

2 ripe plantains
2 eggs
1/4 cup of olive oil
1/4 cup raw cane sugar
Hersheys Baking Bar of Chocolate (1 pack)
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
Grease Pyrex dish with olive oil and set aside (use anything that is available to you)
Add the plantains (peeled and chopped) to your food processor.
Pulse until your batter is smooth.
Add in your chocolate bar in pieces and pulse a few times until they are combined into the batter. Add other ingredients and mix well.
Pour your batter into your greased dish and allow to bake in the oven for 30 minutes.
Allow the baked brownies to cool.
Frost with Nutella or your own frosting
Start cutting and serving (preference for warm or cold plantain bar depends on individual).
Refrigerate

N.B.

You can substitute the baking chocolate, oil and eggs if you wish. The texture is very delicate and moist almost like a custard or bread pudding except lighter. (Be careful not to burn it . You can use a toothpick to test if it is done. When the toothpick is inserted and comes out clean it is cooked). The taste is slightly salted and sweet with neither of the two overpowering each other. I used an oval casserole dish of 12 1/2 inches in length and 7 1/2 inches width (at the middle) so use what you have.

Italy Bound

Posted on June 25, 2015by admin

I am always so amazed that one nation has so many ethnic influences. I am even more thrilled by how many foreigners are finding entrepreneurship to be the Caribbean goldmine in Trinidad and Tobago. Business tourism is one of the many sectors that is flourishing as Trinidad dons the name “Manhattan of the Caribbean.” Another aspect of business that goes hand in hand with tourism is food. The colonizers can probably hold responsibility for all that is happening now. It is so ironic that the nation changed so many hands from European to British (and the list goes on and on) and today more than ever the foreign trade is making ties to this country and foreigners are migrating to set up business here. This is phenomenally paradoxical as the nation was fought for its trade potential ( among others) and now so many of its predecessor host county men and women are settling here for the purpose of business without the angst and hostility of war.

The Italians have since settled in Tobago and operate mostly food businesses. Hence, they celebrate their signature Italian food and desserts and they have been grown fond of over the years for their food and personable nature. In addition, this Italian food trend has become popular in Trinidad. There has been several launches of pizzerias, cafes and restaurants. The most recent that I have noticed happens to be Giro’s Pizza in Chaguanas. This is another first for Central Trinidad adding more cultural value to their landscape.

Giro’s Pizza is located at #87 Old Southern Main Road, Edinburgh Village in Chaguanas (just look for the red, green and white horizontal striped flag on the left hand side of the road opposite Wing Hua Chinese Restaurant). Their opening hours are Tuesdays to Thursdays 12:00 noon to 8:00 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays they open from 12:00 noon to 9:00 pm. Sundays are more laid back as they open from 4:00 pm to 8:00 p.m. Giro facilitates walk ins, order to pick up service and delivery service (at the extra cost of TTD$15.00). This quaint pizzeria does not provide dine in service and there is limited street parking.

The menu captures wood oven baked pizza with meat, fish, shrimp and vegetarian options. The pizza sizes vary from 10 inches to 15 inches. These pizza prices can start as low as TTD$45.00 and scale all the way up to TTD$110.00. There is also vegetarian, chicken and beef lasagne all at TTD$59.00. Some interesting desserts are also hand crafted and stored for the sweet tooth fans. These include key lime pie, classic cheesecake, carrot cake, tiramisu, almond mousse cheesecake and panna cotta. The dessert rates start at TTD$20.00 and vary until they taper at TTD$35.00 per item.

My experience

Location: 4 stars

This is a convenient and accessible location

Parking: 3 stars

There is limited parking in front of the shop. Thankfully I went on a holiday and there was parking on the other side of the road as the business there was closed for the day. However, there are many spots on the street that accommodate parking.

Cleanliness: 4 stars

Giro keeps his work stations clean and washes his hands frequently. There is proper storage and refrigeration of food. Overall, clean place. But there is always room for improvement in sanitation.

Service:4 stars

There was a wait before getting the orders done but it was not very long as the pizza making and baking did not take long either. It is useful to note this can be a one man show at times (well at least the day I visited). The pizza chef did everything it seems; the cashing and pizza making but he is quite attentive, humble, warm and keeps good humour (typical traits of most Italians).

Food: 4 stars

This is authentic Italian cuisine and the wood oven makes it even more realistic. I took pizza fanatics with me (I’m on a low fodmap diet so I really cannot indulge in certain items for a while) to do the taste testing. They ordered a large eight slice Nibali pizza at TTD$90.00. This consisted of mozzarella, tomato sauce, pepperoni, pineapple and onions. They swapped the pepperoni for chicken on half of the pizza which is also an option if you would like to try two different types of pizza. They thoroughly enjoyed it but were not overly impressed as one of them found it not to be “fulling” to them whilst the other was able to eat twice from their share of pizza. Italian pizza is not American pizza so the Italian thin crust can probably account for this as well as the individual’s stomach capacity.

Ambiance: 4 stars

There is some homage to Italy with icons from the host country decorating the wall partitions. There is some abstract art on the wall as well. There are Giro Pizza logos branding the refrigerators and entrance. There is light Italian music and the live pizza making action and interaction of a busy light hearted Italian chef.

Price: 4 stars

The price is reasonable.

For more information on Giro’s Pizza

Visit them online at

https://www.facebook.com/pages/GiroPizza/1386129835039112?sk=timeline

Place your order

1-868-280-4476 (GIRO)

Trinidad – Wine Country?!

Posted on June 20, 2015by admin

Trinidad and Tobago has been earmarked, “the party island”. It is worth noting that we are often affectionately referred to as “The Land of Rum”. While we are not known as a wine country ( except if we were talking about the dance form “wining” but we are not) ‘Trinbagonians’ have produced their own local wines for quite some time. This country has also imported our wines to fit the increasing demand for this supply. The importation of wines are infamous with the booming local food and beverage industry. The restaurants and retail wine shops provide a taste of home for the many nationalities that reside in this multicultural twin island state. In addition, it gives the ‘Trinbagonian’ national the opportunity to travel around the world in a sip, a glass and of course a bottle. This suggests that in the future perhaps Trinidad may adopt yet another nickname for the love of wine.

There are quite a handful of wine retailers over the East to West corridor of Trinidad. So one can imagine the trials and tribulations one would endure to get there from the south or central parts of Trinidad just to acquire a decent bottle of wine. ( Of course, there are wines and other liquors sold at selected supermarkets and convenience stores.) However, the growing niche of persons interested in selection, premium quality, taste and variety is left in some sort of bewilderment at the lack of a nearby wine shop especially if they do not ‘ply’ the East/West Corridor often.

Thankfully someone realized this very need and TNT Wine Cellars opened their doors at A1 Atlantic Plaza in Point Lisas last year. This is the first wine shop in Central Trinidad. The owner and founder of TNT Wine Cellars has over ten years experience in the auction of wines in the U.S.A. This experience has been channeled in a creative way to the opening of TNT Wine Cellars. The store is chic and small but fits the need in Central Trinidad. The layout is not too stereotypical or bourgeoisie. Most of the furniture is sustainable as they are made from wine crates. There is an artistic flair and a vivacious energy bursting out from the very walls, doors and shelves of the wine store.

(Door made from wine crate)

This is not a snob like wine retailer. It is a place for the convening of novice wine souls to the aged sommelier. The funky youth, the chic and classy metropolitan to the man on the street wishing to purchase a bottle of wine in the celebration of some special occasion in his life are all welcomed. The prices are affordable as the people of Trinidad and Tobago and the inherent economy were taken into consideration before the start of this venture.

The concept of the shop is wine focused with a few extras such as accessories, champagnes and other alcoholic spirits. There is online shopping, an order and pick up service and even delivery service. They also cater to special events. The customer service is warm. The staff is very knowledgeable as the customer can always get a consultation on the type of wine to buy before purchase.

So if you are in the area feel free to check them out Monday – Friday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.

They were open today for their Father’s Day sale from 10:00 am until 3:00 p.m.

https://www.facebook.com/tntwinecellar?fref=ts&ref=br_tf

http://tntwinecellar.com/index.php

Gluten Free and Happy in Trinidad!

Posted on June 16, 2015by admin

What is a fodmap?

FODMAP is an abbreviated term for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols. Basically these are molecules that exist in foods. They are sometimes poorly absorbed into the digestive tract. When this happens they become a food source to the bacteria in the large intestine. Hence, the individual develops symptoms that are suggestive of gastrointestinal disorders. These include nausea, pain, bloating, diarrhea and even constipation to name a few. Different individuals may have varying symptoms some may have fever from inflammation and others may even develop insomnia and anxiety.

What is a fodmap diet?

This is a form of dietary therapy for patients suffering from gastrointestinal disorders. It also scales foods on the high end of the map and the low end of the map. Usually, the low fodmap diet plan is recommended by gastroenterology specialists. This plan includes avoiding foods that are ferementable, oligosaccharides (fructans), dissacharides (excess lactose), monosaccharides (excess sucrose) and polyols (Sorbitol, Mannitol, Maltitol, Xylitol and Isomalt). The diet of the patient and symptoms are then monitored for their improvement.

If you are on a low fodmap diet how will you survive in Trinidad?

It is very easy! You do not have to go all vegan and buy the expensive stuff! Just get creative with your new menu! I will fill you in on where these fodmap items are available! You can use your low fodmap diet plan as a guide to make your shopping list. You can easily find some of the fruits, vegetables and rice at supermarkets, farmer’s markets and then there are the gourmets grocers. The local food guru Trinichow has already compiled a list of gourmet grocers and health food stores so click the link to see the options in Trinidad and Tobago below.

Gourmet Grocers & Health Food Stores in Trinidad & Tobago

Do not get too frantic about the cost of your new diet or where you may find these items or what if they are expired?! The reality is that Trinidad and Tobago like many other destinations have realized the need for accessibility and availability of the aforementioned items. Hence, there are entrepreneurs capitalizing on this opportunity to meet this demand. More significantly, it has been recognized that gastrointestinal diseases and symptoms are a prominent issue in today’s society.

In addition Trinidad and Tobago can boast of a registered charity for patients suffering from gastrointestinal disorders. The National Association of Crohn’s and Colitis of Trinidad and Tobago enhances patient education and well being as well as public awareness for early diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, Trinidadian born and raised Dr. Anthony Kalloo made a breakthrough discovery in gastroenterology with his Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery which means surgery without incision of patient. He was well received with the distinguished educator of the year award from the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and the Caribbean American Heritage Award (CARAH) in 2009.

My Tips

1. Work out a breakfast, lunch and dinner menu

(Breakfast – gluten free bagel with cooked spinach and cheddar/hard cheese)

(Breakfast – Gluten free English muffin with baby spinach and cheddar cheese)

N.B. Sometimes I use almond butter as a spread with these muffins and bagels. Feel free to use what you like and what is on your low fodmap list!

(Lunch – Rice Lasagna with minced meat, green beans, carrots, cheddar, olive oil)

N.B. This was lunch for the “meat eaters” who are not on the low fodmap diet so there are some high fodmaps in this rice pasta like corn, peas, onions, garlic, ketchup, tomato paste. So you do not necessarily have to be vegan or on this diet to enjoy gluten free meals. By the way they absolutely loved it!

(Lunch- Herbed Potatoes )

N.B. It was boiled, strained, drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, paprika, rosemary, marjoram and chilli. I had this with grilled fish and a side of baby spinach. So you do not have to be all fancy and there are lots of listed low fodmap herbs you can play with when creating your food. See what is available to you first before you go shopping. I even had dhal, rice and bhagi aka cooked spinach for one of my meals.

(Dinner – Gluten Free Pizza– olive oil, cheddar cheese,olives from the low fodmap)

N.B. The thing to note here is that this was again created for the “carnivores” who do not live on a diet plan. There are items like chicken salami, pasta sauce, ketchup, green bell peppers, onions, corn from the high fodmap on this pizza.

2. Include dessert , fruit, snack and water intake

(Snack – Gluten Free Brownies)

N.B. These are basically done. Everyone ate them and loved them. You do not have to be a vegetarian or pescetarian or vegan to enjoy this! These brownies are the end result of a brownie mix that requires water, eggs and olive oil to be added to it to create the brownie batter.

(Fruit – Kiwis)

N.B. You can create your own fruit bowls from the low fodmap or find the fruits that you like and use them!

3. Create a budget

4. Identify your closest low fodmap shopping areas

Gourmet Grocers & Health Food Stores in Trinidad & Tobago

N.B. I found some of my low fodmaps at Superpharm, the regular supermarket and the farmer’s market.

5. Make a shopping list

(Shopping – This is what I got from my shopping spree)

6. Go shopping!

7. Start creating!

8. Enjoy the labour of your love!

9. Research more recipes

10. Enjoy!

Your health is your wealth!

Take care of you first!

Salt N Pepper – The Review

Posted on June 12, 2015by admin

Salt N Pepper is conveniently located in Shoppes of Maraval near to Papa John’s. The restaurant is relatively new just opening in November 2014. They serve Indian and Pakistani cuisine. Their serving portions are quite reasonable and their rates are comparable. Whilst this is not a huge restaurant it fits the description of a more intimate and updated take out/walk in type of set up. The customer still gets waiter service if they decide to dine in. One should note that gluten free and fodmap dieters can comfortably eat at Salt N Pepper. My order was some aloo paratha which I requested gluten free paratha. Their food was good. Yet again I am amazed at the clear distinction between Indian paratha and Trinidadian paratha as they are two totally different things. I have zero complaints about their staff as they were helpful and attentive.

My suggestions

The restaurant is fairly new and their focus seems to be creating authentic and quality food. I feel as though a few more things could have been done. Of course I am not judging because maybe these things will be rolled out as part of their strategic plan or even marketing plan in the future. But let us not be oblivious to the fact that I have been in marketing, hospitality and tourism for a minimum of eight years.

Ambiance: I loved the look it is almost like an Indian diner (the Indian version of the American diner). However, dining out is an experience and even diners set the mood and tone with some music. I would have loved to feel immersed in India while dining. This would have added some vibe and pulled some patrons to return or visit for this experience.

Staff: The staff is so sweet and kind. Whilst I noted only two persons I did hear faint Indian accents echoing from the kitchen. I would have loved to at least interacted at some point with authentic Indian staff to make me feel as if I really went to India without leaving Trinidad. Perhaps this can be implemented where a staff member maintains a role to visit the dining customers when they are eating and simply ask about the customer’s dining experience. Another idea is to interact with the customer by serving them or retrieving their plates.

Marketing: Social media, word of mouth, print advertisement seems to be the “run of the mill” with their advertising. I am not too sure how an average day is gauged in terms of number of patrons and dollars. But during my time there which was just after lunch I only saw about ten persons including myself and a friend. I completely understand that their space is small but I believe marketing is about racking up those numbers. I suggest they tap into product differentiation and try other target markets. I did notice there is some advertisement of similar services offered on their website but I am curious about their leads and follow up on this. They can explore collaboration as a supplier for expos (career fairs, school events or industrial events) and catering for industrial meetings (the industrial sector is forever flooded with meetings and tea plates or snack boxes). They can investigate a partnership with Eat 868 the local gourmet delivery service. Nonetheless this is the digital era and so much can be done for free with access to social media platforms. It basically takes some time to just be creative and plan ways of connecting with the target market and keeping them up to date with the happenings of the restaurant from menu changes to deals and closing times.

https://www.facebook.com/saltnpepper/info?tab=page_info

http://www.saltnpeppertt.com/

Well that’s my two cents they can take it or leave it. Notwithstanding, Salt N Pepper has the right formula. Their food is good and once the product is top notch and the service is okay this model can function. However, this is the world of business so room for improvement will set Salt N Pepper apart from its competitors. Trinidad already has quite a few Indian restaurants. Although they are located in several parts of the country clear distinctions in a well marketed brand will determine whether the clients choose the competitors over Salt N Pepper.

So if you have not been there yet…

Go check them out and take some friends with you!

xoxo

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago

Meet the Bloggers

Posted on June 5, 2015by admin

Who are bloggers?

Blogs are web logs. Bloggers are skilled professionals in search engine optimization, social media marketing, writing, editing, publishing posts, designing and maintaining the design. Mostly, they are very knowledgeable about their field of expertise or hobby area whether it may be fashion, design management, creative design, the arts, lifestyle branding. Often their perspective is unique. They can be corporate bloggers, hobbyists, activists, stylists and even personal bloggers. They can be male or female. Furthermore, what they bring to the table in terms of their vision is even more worthwhile.

(Featured Designer Brands from Exhibit A )

Why do we need them?

The frequency of blogger inclusion has infiltrated the modern era of marketing. Today there is little to zero marketing divide. The target market reach is global. The customer is at the finger tips of the business man/woman. Lifestyle organizations have already recognized this. Hence, the blogger becomes pertinent, useful and important. The bloggers have their own niches and fan base. They can market other brands and drive publicity levels to higher heights. They can also be very critical and the way of the world proves that positive reviews can lead to the beautiful start on customer loyalty, target market confidence and a functional marketing campaign. However, a negative review just may lead to the downfall of the product or service the company offers. The way in which this commentary is handled needs to be determined beforehand. A negative review can point to dire changes and bring attention to some concerns for product/service redesign for improvement.

(More Designer Brands from Exhibit A)

What is the problem for bloggers?

One of the main problems for bloggers interested in making a job out of this is income generation. There are several opportunities to create revenue online for bloggers. Nonetheless, other requests for them to attend and do media coverage are met with insufficient compensation. Bloggers have expenses too especially to do media coverage or a review (travel expenses, cellphone, internet, wardrobe, makeup, hair, time for editing, publishing, marketing). It is the blogger’s decision to take on such a request with or without pay for whatever rationale (charity, passion, favor or whatever). However, they have been underrated and gone unrecognized for their hard work, effort, time and contributions to the social media landscape and their countries for too long. Their only support being their reader and follower fan base without aid from a legitimate body to advocate for some or any of their concerns.

What has Trinidad and Tobago done to aid this problem?

The first edition of the networking event “Meet the Bloggers” was launched on the 4^th May 2015 at Home smack in the middle of Exhibit A ( a designer space curated by former Project Runway Winner, Anya Ayoung Chee for shopping, creating, networking). The event was used as a platform to connect the “behind the scenes” bloggers with the designers, their fans and the public. The free event also allowed the space for networking, collaborating and of course shopping/buying local. It was quite ironic that this promotional event promoted persons who pursue their own end of public relations in their stratosphere. It was also a strategic move to identify faces to names of these blogger brands in a more intimate community setting. Moreover, it was also wise to recognize bloggers as they are the underground movement working tediously and passionately to promote local and regional lifestyle and designer brands. This is the first time in Trinidad and Tobago’s history that the bloggers were given this type of credibility and recognition for their contribution. The event went on from 4pm – 7pm and it was sponsored by Ciroc and Johnny Walker Gold Reserve who provided cocktails for patrons.

Photo Courtesy: Exhibit A

https://www.facebook.com/ExhibitAatHOME?fref=photo

Who were the Bloggers at the event?

“Designer Island, is an elegant, intelligent online publication highlighting some of the best in Caribbean creative life. We are inspired by everything about island life: the landscape, the food, and the creatives and makers working in photography, design, art, fashion, food and literature. Sharing profiles meant to inspire and entertain. Founded in 2011 by designer Tanya Marie, to share the work of creative practitioners in Trinidad and the wider Caribbean. Designer Island has since expanded into a full online magazine, partnering with writers, editors and photographers.

Who we really are as a Caribbean people.
We show you our Caribbean, as we know it. It’s the way we live, work, play, create and think, all through the eyes of creatives living on an island,” Tanya Marie Williams.

http://designerislandlife.com/

“Twodotpick is a platform where Shandelle Loregnard showcases her style, thoughts and inspirations to the public about Fashion. She fuses her Caribbean background with her New York experiences to create her unconventional daily looks on the blog.”

www.twodotpick.com

“A tale of 2 trini girls, (Marsha and Cherry) well women really, who are enjoying and discovering the beauty within and the beauty of the twin isles of Trinidad and Tobago. Primarily a food and fashion blog with a focus that spans local culture from our corner of the world.”

2trinigirls.wordpress.com

“Trinidad and Tobago is eagerly bursting with talent; hundreds of budding entrepreneurs
and artists who want to make it in the global fashion industry. As a Stylist and Owner of
an online department store www.NoMoreFashionVictims.com which sells exclusively
Caribbean and Latin American brands, I observe the challenges, risks and triumphs of
our designers, creatives, and followers,” Stephanie Ramlogan

Photo Courtesy: No More Fashion Victims Inc

“Guyanese Fashion Blogger, Critic and Shoe Fanatic. Putting my MSc to use in a Rad creole style since 2013 via The Online Runway. Basically encouraging Caribbean based Fashion Communication in a
blunt manner,” Ashma John

www.online-runway.com

The End?!

In a nutshell, Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean bloggers will continue to advocate, support and help revolutionize the social media landscape whilst still giving back to their host destinations. Meet the Bloggers is just one initiative that will hopefully spin off and inspire other initiatives to recognize the contribution and concerns of bloggers.

“Special thanks to Anya Ayoung Chee for this opportunity”

"A Few Steps in the Right Direction" – Trinidad and Tobago Fashion

Posted on May 21, 2015by admin

The local fashion scene is buzzing with amusement, intrigue, glitz and glam. As a destination in this turn of the century Trinidad and Tobago’s revived fashion journey has only now begun. Trinidad and Tobago, as the premier fashion destination in the Caribbean upped the ante in the first quarter of the 2015 calendar. It seems like there were a few positive steps in the right direction for Trinidad and Tobago, the fashion destination.

( Photo courtesy: Ministry of Trade, Industry, Investment and Communications)

The Fashion Look Book

The Creative TT and Export TT collaboration has fostered a brainchild in the form of a Trinidad and Tobago Fashion Look Book. There has been liaison with a target market in the French Caribbean to promote the sale of local fashion merchandise. The Creative TT board members anticipate that this will stimulate understanding by local fashion designers to be export ready. To aid this initiative there was a fashion workshop hosted by Creative TT for local designers on themes of export. A panel including Jennifer Williams Baffoe (specialist business advice consultant for creative industries), Raymond Wong (Professor at Fashion Institute of Technology/ co-owner of Intricate Concepts Inc. and Fourfront 1602), Soma Lisa Choudhury (Branding and Marketing Specialist for luxury designers) and Romero Bryan (luxury brand designer/ London College of Fashion graduate) participated in Trinidad and Tobago Fashion Week 2015. They shared their creative expertise and international industry experience in these workshops.

(Photo courtesy: Creative TT)

2TFW

Another noteworthy step was the launch of 2TFW by Ashley Christmas. Ashley is a fashion designer and fashion events producer in the sister isle of Tobago. Ashley is responsible for the re-branded 2TFW formerly Tobago Fashion Weekend. Christmas spent his years in the U.S.A and in New York under the tutelage of Raymond Wong and Joseph Mbeh. Christmas launched a clothing line and debuted his collection at Trinidad and Tobago Fashion Week in 2008 – 2010. In 2010, Ashley participated in a Tobago segment of Trinidad and Tobago Fashion Week. In 2011, he created Tobago Fashion Weekend. This year 2015 Tobago Fashion Weekend became 2TFW (Trinidad and Tobago Fashion Week). It was expanded to include twenty five designers and spanned a week of educational workshops, tours, commercial opportunities and networking for fashion designers, models and all those involved in the industry. Fashion shows at Piarco International Airport’s atrium were used as promotional events for (Trinidad and Tobago Fashion Week) 2TFW. In addition, an online fashion store became part of the fashion week with the sale of promotional fashion week attire.

(Photo courtesy: 2TFW)

http://dus1.org/

http://2tfwstore.com/

International Media Coverage

Trinidad and Tobago realizes that the international marketing and the social media platform today bridges the gap in communication by connecting destinations to the world especially in the name of fashion. Claire Sulmers, an international fashion media representative was photographed frolicking in Trinidad and Tobago’s fashion, fun and food. Claire Sulmers graced 2TFW this year to do media coverage for the event. She is actually the owner and editor in chief at The Fashion Bomb Daily an online blog for urban “fashionistas”. The blog showcases fashion from runways, editorials as well as beauty and style advice. Fashion from around the world even minority groups appear on the blog. Claire has been trained under the eye of journalists and has worked her way up to owning and publishing her own blog. Some of her experiences include working at Vogue Italia, Essence Magazine and AOL. Also, she has an affiliation with Harvard University.

(Photo courtesy: Fashion Bomb Daily)

http://fashionbombdaily.com/2015/05/12/claires-life-maracas-beach-in-trinidad-in-andrea-iyamahs-kanda-high-waist-bikini-and-tess-blue-beach-cape/

Creative Space

Forward advanced incrementation is brought back home with the person the Caribbean identifies as the one who gave second breath to Trinidad and Tobago’s Fashion Industry, Anya Ayoung Chee. She has created a space for creative artisans and like minds to network and collaborate at her HOME. She launched Exhibit A. This is a part of HOME where designers can host displays and shopping nights to name a few. These projects are curated under the supervision of The Project Runway Winner. This step is indicative of a safe haven and mentorship platform to fill gaps in the local fashion industry from commercialization, marketing and distribution from local designers to consumers.

In the future, this “pay it forward” system could potentially connect more dots than originally intended. The stakeholders, game changers and veterans help these creative entrepreneurs and they in turn help others by sharing what they know. It is a tried and true principle that has worked in other industries for years. It is definitely transferable to Trinidad and Tobago, as an aspiring fashion destination.

(Photo courtesy: Exhibit A)

https://www.facebook.com/ExhibitAatHOME

Caribbean Fashion Recognition

This year a few pivotal points were established in Trinidad and Tobago’s fashion. However, another event will make a powerful statement in taking Trinidad and Tobago and by extension the Caribbean’s fashion to the world . This event is called Caribbean Style Week. This will be held in south Florida from June 23rd – June 29th 2015. Caribbean fashion, models, designers and stylists will be showcased. Panels,workshops, runway shows and special events are planned for this Caribbean Style Week. Caribbean fashion is gaining its fair share of international recognition. This can only mean more viability and visibility for Trinidad and Tobago and the region.

https://www.facebook.com/caribstyleweek?fref=photo

http://www.caribstyleweek.com/

Basically, if the stars continue their alignment and this momentum is reciprocated at light speed or even at this organic pace then the future for the creative industries (fashion) and Trinidad and Tobago as a fashion destination seems hopeful.