SECRET ROOM EVENTS’ GIFTING LOUNGE HONORING THE 2020 GOLDEN GLOBES

Well, Happy Birthday month to me!!! I discovered everything I could ever want right at Secret Room Events Gift Lounge in honor of this year’s Golden Globe Awards! Now I know what I’d like from all of my friends. (Yeah, right—if even one of them does something back for me, I’ll probably faint. So maybe they should just give me some smelling salts.)

No fooling around—this spectacular event was overwhelming. I was glad it was in a hotel, (Century City’s Intercontinental Hotel, to be exact,) because I thought I was going to have to get a room to take a long nap at the end of it!

My contributing writer on this one is Patty Onagan. She had been to an earlier Secret Room Events Gift Lounge with me, which she loved, so she was excited to pay them a return visit. And she deemed this one to be even better! She exclaimed, “Wow! Secret Room Events did it again this year with a great variety of new and exciting sponsors. They gifted all the latest and hottest must-haves for 2020!” She added, “I especially love that many of the sponsors believe in the environment, sustainability, and the welfare of humans and all living things.”

One of both of our favorite aspects of Secret Room Events is the very happening check-in table. Patty explains, “In addition to being greeted by the incredibly helpful and lovely staff, there was an amazing array of extra treats on the table, for the guests to pick and choose from.” There were gifts in many categories, but as always-hungry girls, we were most happy to pick-up some snacks, such as crisp and healthful coconut chips, a bag of unbelievably delicious chocolate keto treats, and flavored pork rinds, which Patty said were “so yummy” that she “couldn’t put the bag down!”

But before I get to the scoops on all the goodies we discovered in the gifting lounge, I have to tell you about one of my favorite TV actors I met that day. Jake Choi, who plays Miggy on the hilarious sitcom, Single Parents, is even more adorable in person than he is on TV! I had been feeling bad for the previous two months since I learned that Jake was at the opening night of a show that I was also invited to, but then had to cancel on, so I thought that meant I had missed my one chance of meeting him. And then, thanks to Secret Room Events, that has been corrected now! He even insisted that we make a video to Mr. X right on the spot! I’ve been living off that fabulous experience ever since! (And I found-out later that Jake and I have…the same birthday!!! No wonder he’s fabulous. So I wish a very Happy Bday to my fellow January 14th-er!)

I’m sure that Jake and the other celebs, (such as The Terror’s Miki Ishikawa, to whom he introduced us,) really enjoyed receiving the plethora of gifts on offer at Secret Room Events’ lounge. Here are the very many highlights of them:

Évolur Baby—This is one of the most generous companies I’ve ever come upon at a gifting lounge! And they had the most beautiful display, as well! It’s baby furniture so mouthwatering that it almost made me want to have a kid! (But I’d rather just have the furniture.) They were gifting the guests a choice of a bassinet or stroller. I would have been happy to just curl up in one of their oversized chairs, (or the crib!,) with their beautiful pink blanket, and take a nap for a bit. (But you, and they, will be relieved to know that I refrained.) www.evolurbaby.com

Nurse Hatty—Hatty is an actual person, (and a nurse, of course,) who, like me, cares about every aspect of one’s being! (I love nurses!) We chatted for quite awhile, and she told me that her many products help with “rejuvenation both inside and outside, from head to toe!” To that end, she gifted the guests a variety of health, beauty, and personal care items from her lines, including ones that help with wrinkle reduction and strips for a few different urine tests. There’s even a face strap to help prevent sleep apnea. And there’s a phone number on her site which you can call to speak with Hatty herself! www.nursehatty.com

Sothys USA—We spent a lot of time learning about this skincare line. (Maybe because all their representatives looked so good!) Patty says, “If you want to energize and boost the radiance of your skin, I suggest you try Sothys new Detox Energie collection.” She interviewed Ziba Jahangir, the main on-site rep at the lounge, who explained, “Since we are all exposed to the same pollution, this collection is good for both men and women, and you can start using these treatments in your early twenties,” which was great news to me, of course, (since I’m still in my twenties. Well, in my mind I am!) Ziba suggests that “the must-have item in the collection is the Depolluting Essence, which is a great shield for your skin, and can be worn day and night.” We millennials agree. www.sothys-usa.com

Shalia Botanicals–We were blessed to discover this CBD company’s Total Wellness Kit, which is entitled The Blessed. Patty explored it and says it’s a “balanced regimen of CBD-infused probiotic skincare that will, as Shalia says, ‘bring you closer to total wellness, inside and out.’” We both really enjoyed meeting these “ super nice” reps who not only gave-out “this wonderful gift,” but also placed all of each guest’s other gift items into one of their perfect Shalia sports bags, to make carrying it all so much easier for them, proving that Shalia does, indeed, care about total wellness! www.shaliabotanicals.com

Ten Degrees—We went nuts over these “build-your-own” rings! This Alberta-based company smartly displayed the beautifully-packaged rings in sizes, which made it very easy for each guest to determine the best one for herself. Patty referred to them as “beautiful and affordable statement pieces.” She explains how it all works: “You choose the base ring, and then combine it with one, two, or three of their collection of contemporary ‘spinner rings.’” She adds, “Ten Degrees was designed for individuals to express themselves through customizable jewelry.”  www.tendegreesinc.com

Pure Trim—I was excited to introduce Patty to this line of many healthful products that I’ve been raving about for years! She tried their on-site Passionfruit Boost Tea, which boosts metabolism, and said she saw what my fuss is all about. She said, “The Pure Trim team was so generous in offering everyone so many of their products, including peanut butter chocolate Trim Bars, their plant stem-cell fibroblast blend Joint Mist, self-tanner, and plant-collagen serum.” She continued, “I did some research on it all when I got home and discovered that this line is used by many notables, from actors to dancers to former astronaut Buzz Aldrin. And, oh, I can’t forget to mention the one-and-only Karen Salkin!” I like the way Patty thinks!  www.puretrim.com

RevealU Skincare—I’ve been a fan of this company’s luxurious products for awhile, but hadn’t shared them with Patty, (because she looks so good on her own.) But when she tried their Gold Face and Body Gel, which is infused with minerals, including 24K gold flakes, she was effusive about it. She said it lived up to its name because “not only did the product nourish and hydrate my skin, but I truly felt like a billion dollars!” www.revealuskincare.com

Alicia Adams Alpaca—This alpaca company had many lovely items on display for the guests to peruse, after which they were gifted a beautiful classic scarf in a choice of classy muted colors. Patty knows wool much better than I do, and says alpaca is “perfect for those with allergies since their fiber is hypoallergenic. And, to those who usually wear cashmere, you won’t be sorry that you turned alpaca; it’s so much softer!” What she said. www.aliciaadamsalpaca.com

ChildLife Essentials—Patty’s a mom of two gorgeous young children, so she especially enjoyed discovering this sponsor. She says, “It’s never too early to start adding vitamin supplements as a regular part of your infant or child’s routine. So if you have a tot, or even a newborn, I suggest you check-out this company’s organic vitamins.” I know that my new-mom friend, Betsy, (who’s also a nurse, so this will be extra educational for her,) will be happy to learn about them from us. www.childlifenutrition.com

Dionis Skincare—Patty said, “I was so excited to discover these products! I love goat milk and goat cheese, and now I can add Dionis Goat Milk Skincare to that list.” She tried a sample of hand creme right away, (they handed everyone a little tube right as we entered the premises, which was so thoughtful of them,) and she told me that her skin “feels super-soft.” I was just excited that it’s all made in Bucks County, PA, where I spent sooo many summers as a kid. I love that area! So they had me at “Bucks County!” www.dionisgmskincare.com

Jimmy’s Milan Salad Dressing—The adorable young rep, Jesse Peterson, explained the history of this delish salad dressing to the assemblage. It was the coveted item from a famous eatery in Philly, Jimmy’s Milan’s, (Jimmy was Jesse’s great-grandfather, actually,) and even though the restaurant closed a few years ago, this classic dressing is now available to a grateful public. www.milan39.com

D-Pro High Protein Meal Bars—Patty tells us, “Seriously, these are a meal and dessert all-in-one!” That’s good that she noticed because that’s exactly what they are—meal replacement bars. Each guest could not only try a sample right then and there, but they received a full bar to take with them. And OMG, are they heavenly! (I’m eating one as I’m writing this!) I was most into the Ketolicous Nutty Chocolate variety while Patty, who told me she had been craving an avocado treat just the day before, enjoyed the “delish” Veganlicious Almond Avocado Carrot one. You can’t go wrong with any of them! www.deliciousproteins.com

Medispa Naturals—This Canadian skincare company was doing an on-site treatment for the lucky guests who had the time for them. (Sadly for us, Patty and I did not. Shame.) But no worries—everyone got a little gift bag of their Naturals line of products. But Patty was most impressed with the fact that “Medispa also contributes to many great causes, including saving endangered animals and preventing cruelty to domestic pets.” That kindness only adds to their skin glow, in my book. www.medispa.ca

We The People Hemp—These were the easiest-to-deal-with reps at any gifting event ever! They just want everyone to try, and benefit from, their products. To that end, they gifted little burlap bags filled with their CBD-infused gummies, tinctures, capsules, and creams. www.wtphemp.com

Exuviance—This skincare company explains their very interesting moniker thusly, “Skin renewal starts with exuviation–shedding surface skin cells–so our formulas can activate and work together with your skin, revealing visible results.” They were gifting their Achieve Lift serum, which was perf—I’m sure the entire assemblage needed a lift after the incredible experience at the lounge! www.exuviance.com

Percepta—This plant-based supplement is for those whose memories need a little help. But I can’t let Mr. X know about it because I don’t want him to remember that he’s not always so crazy about me—I just remind him every morning that he loves me, and so far, he’s going with it!  But kidding aside, so many people I know really could use this. It will be a great breakthrough if it helps the memory-challenged masses. I’m rooting for it. www.perceptabrain.com

Immaculate Minerals—This mother-daughter duo was on-site, gifting their company’s serum, lipsticks, and makeup brushes, (which the guests were literally falling over each other to get to!) We got to grab a quick peek at it all, and Patty deemed their Immaculate Diamond Powder Brush to be a “sleek and full essential make-up tool.” www.imagesbymiriam.com

Delightfully Delicious Dog Treats—Patty was uber-impressed that the owner of this company personally tries every one of her dog treat products! Her philosophy is that if it’s not safe for a human to eat, then it’s not safe for a dog. The flavors all sounded so delicious that we were tempted to try them ourselves, (especially because we were hungry that day,) but we weren’t adventurous enough. Still, Patty thinks canines will be in “doggy treat heaven” from them. www.ddtreats.com

Crown Goose—This luxury bedding company was gifting a choice of a sturdy cotton placemat or a soft white hand towel. After feeling the goods, Patty declared, “I’m a fan!” www.crowngooseusa.com

Jimmy Jane—This company was gifting multi-award-winning personal vibrators, which included a travel bag in the box. Patty said, “I have to note that this is the 24k gold luxury edition—so it’s sure to bring pure joy!”  www.jimmyjane.com

Relaxium–As we’re all learning, a good night’s sleep is key to just everything in life. So the busy guests were happy to discover this supplement that was developed by an actual doctor. He was gifting a bottle of it, and one of his formula to keep you calm when you’re awake. And who does not want the combo of being well-rested and peaceful?  www.tryrelaxium.com

Serene CBD—This CBD products company was gifting bath salts from the Dead Sea, along with their signature lip balms. And it was all very neatly and pristinely displayed, which made it even more attractive. www.serenecannabis.com

Organic Candy Factory—Patty took a little bag of these “gelatin-free, gluten-free, preservative-free, corn syrup-free, vegan, and kosher” peach-flavored Organic Gummy Cubs home to her kids, and they all agreed that they are “yummy!” She says, “How can a parent say no to these cubilicious candies?” www.organiccandyfactory.com

Rock Star Kids Beverly Hills—This trendy children’s boutique was gifting kids’ hoodies and tees and an interesting little something that no one (except for moi) knew what it was! It’s a small gold orb with a little gavel in the package. Want to venture a guess as to what it is? Ready? It’s a candy piñata! (Just remember that, after the kids open it, you need to hide the mallet because it certainly doubles as a weapon! Let me put it this way—I wish I had one when my sister was especially mean to me! To this day!)  www.rockstarkidsbh.com

Greska’s Carbon-60—The tiny bottles they were gifting are all you need to access this energy-producing nutritional supplement which contains a special antioxidant. And doesn’t everyone in Hollywood need a little extra vitality every now and then?  www.c-60.com

Splenda Stevia—We’re both so glad that Splenda has gotten into the Stevia game with their new natural zero-calorie sweetener. I’ve been seeing their recent clever commercials for the product, so I love being in the know right at the start! Their attractive display at the lounge even featured some of the actual plant being grown. www.splenda.com

Secret Room Events always chooses a charity to benefit from their events, and this time was a repeat one because, as they put it, it’s dear to their hearts. The Dove Project, (which stands for Dogs of Violence Exposed,) is a non-profit organization that’s dedicated to ending the dog meat trade in Asia. They had several lovely reps on-site with a few dogs whom the guests could adopt on the spot! So therefore, there was a crowd around them at all times, and everyone, people and canines alike, was having a blast! www.dove-project.org

As always with Secret Room Events, the VIP guests left with the most gigantic LL Bean bags of even more gifts!!! This one took the cake—people must have gotten hernias just lifting them! Some of the featured items in there were: a John Boos incredible Boos Block cutting board, along with the oil kit to keep it working smoothly; Próspero Tequila in an attractive wooden gift box; one of my favorite childhood toys, Slinky, which makes me happy to have all those stairs in my house now!; Serendipity Candle Factory’s pink grapefruit and rosemary candle which smells great (and whose box declares that it’s “proudly made in Canada”); adorable Aussie teething toy, Mizzie The Kangaroo; a baby-and-mama matching tee-shirt set from Haven Children; my favorite eyebrow make-up by Cherry Blooms; a whole face-care set from Curology; a fabulous make-up brush set from Cala; a few products from affordable Finnish skincare line, Lumene; the most mouthwatering dog collar from Paws ’N Claws Couture, the pattern of which I would love to have on a fancy outfit for myself!; a cute little gift bag of two of The A Method’s most popular skincare items; a cute white rubber ducky from Hevea; a skincare set from Wise Women Botanicals, in a convenient blue carrying case; Sunday Diamond’s essential oils; TBH face wipes for kids (and their moms!); a can of Fly Barbershop pomade; John Paul Pet’s Wild Ginger Shampoo, so your dog’s lovely aroma will also make you hungry!; all kinds of supplements in gummies form from Doctors Best Vitamins; CBD-infused products from HempLand USA; Exsens’ massage oil; a cleverly-named Plus One “personal vibrator”; and Original Poopknife, which I’m not even going to describe here!

I’m sure all the guests appreciated that spectacular day at Secret Room Events. I know that Patty and I sure did!