Stars shined during the day on the IO Rooftop at The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood for the 1st annual Gurus Magazine Pre-Oscars Gifting Retreat!
Guest found themselves unexpectedly spending the day surrounded by scenic views of Los Angeles on March 8th & 9th as fabulous brands brought new life to not a suite – but a retreat. Needless to say, the atmosphere was a buzz with a rejuvenating vibe and smiles on every face.
Glozell Green being interviewed by Cassandra Wilkins
Gurus Magazine was founded by renowned publisher and Editor-In-Chief Derek Warburton, a two-time icon winner and celebrity fashion stylist. The online periodical supports wellness, mental health, and highlight influential individuals and brands shaping these industries.
Gurus’ first cover shoot was with actress, writer, director, author, and equal rights activist Anne Heche. Anne was not only a celebrated face but she lived her life and career with purpose. At her cover shoot, she approached Warburton and asked him, “Why am I here? Tell me what all of this means to you.” Warburton turned to her and said, “Truth, passion, and authenticity. That is why you are here.”
As guests entered the event, they hit the red carpet and were greeted by the host himself – adding a signature personal touch to every guest’s experience.
Derek Warburton with Sutton Stracke
Guests were then welcomed into the “Come As You Are” photo salon. Celebrity fashion photographer Josh Fogel, lovingly captured black and white photos of every guest. No photo was retouched, so each subject got to shine in their beautiful, raw, and singular essence. Guests had the opportunity to get camera ready with sponsor Saint & Sinners haircare products while getting light hair and makeup touchups by Mr. Warburton Magazine’s Beauty Editor, Joel Sebastian. Everyone sat in custom “Gurus Sat Here” directors chairs by Film Craft LA, owned by event producer, Rachel Wlilson.
Sai Suman – Credit: Michelle Behre
This was only the beginning for guests. Guests that included Emmy-Winner, Sheryl Lee Ralph, as well as costar, Lisa Ann Walter (Abbott Elementary,) Sutton Stracke (RHOBH,) Camille Grammer Meyer (RHOBH,) Phaedra Parks (Married to Medicine,) Lawrence Zarian (Kelly Clarkson Show,) TV personality, Katie Ginella, philanthropist, Nancy Davis, and Shaman Durek Veret.
Camille Grammer Meyer, Phaedra Parks, and Katie Ginella – Credit: Michelle Behre
Fresh out of their photo session, guests gushed over the world’s newest ice cream sensation, My Mochi. The tasty treats came in mango, cookie dough, and vegan strawberry. Already having a wonderful time, guests made their way down the vendor walkway. Beverly Hills board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Michael K. Newman offered consultations and aesthetic touchups with Jeuveau products by Evolus. Passion Tree gave out refreshing boozy seltzers. Cocoa and Candy displayed a large assortment of gourmet candies – all Oscar themed. And no one could resist sitting with art therapist and jewelry maker, Larson Arts LA, to make bracelets matching their chakras.
Alyshia Ochse, Joley Fisher, and Tricia Leigh Fisher
The Gurus Magazine Oscars Pre-Gifting Retreat main room was practically buzzing with positive vibes. Front and center was Fisher Stevens Beauty. The legacy beauty brand founded by Hollywood royalty Connie Stevens that is now being revitalized by her daughters, actresses Joely Fisher and Tricia Leigh Fisher. They expertly gave individualized advice and educated guests on their brand’s history. Next, Aumaro Gems showcased pieces from her latest collection of semi-precious stones and Texas bred, Mrs Momma Bear, founded by Lee Evans Lee, held court with her comfortable and stylish workwear.
Meanwhile, party planning company, Amber Walker Events, made custom floral arrangements and fashion designer, Tadashi Shoji, gifted 100 of their stunning gowns. In concert with the dresses, jeweler Todd Sensoli, showcased estate jewelry for the guests to try on, worth up to two million dollars.
Devon Diep and Jarry Lee
Not to be outdone by the food & drinks, there were also some amazing activations. Luxury water bottle brand, Kopu Water, had underwear-clad model Brandon Hunter doing cold plunges. To which, Lisa Ann Walter of Abbott Elementary exclaimed in glee on her Instagram story, “Only in Hollywood!”
Brandon Hunter with Lisa Ann Walter at the Kupo Water Cold Plunge
Shark Tank finalist, The Blonde Italian, showcased her delicious sauces and treated guests to her newest recipes. While Muse educated them on micro-dosing with their psilocybin mushrooms. Plus, the event’s lunch was catered by Executive Chef of Wabi on Rose, Rain Pantana. The decadent sushi and gold leafed chocolate chip cookies paired perfectly with El Cristiano Tequila various spirits.
Guests could also relax on a daybed with a view, made with luxurious Cynthia Bailey Collection bedding from Sutton Brands. But that’s not all, Hollywood Beauty Guru, Robyn Newmark, offered red light therapy, along with a preview of her new skin care collection, Skin Rituals.
Robyn Newmark demos product
And when they weren’t relaxing, they were dancing to the sounds of guitarist, Jules Martinez, and DJ, Robby Hart, provided by Gary Thomas Entertainment and production manager, Kent Burns.
Finally as guests departed, they were gifted swag bags from Mrs Momma Bear. Each bag included custom Gurus tee shirts from Equals Human, Peter Thomas Roth eye gel, Juna Gummies, FACE Stockholm skin primer, hair care from Saints and Sinners, and beverages from The Plug Drink.
Overall, Gurus Magazine Pre-Oscars Gifting Retreat made such a splash that everyone is still talking about it. Next year is sure to be a bigger and brighter bash, so stay tuned!
