FLOSTORM: THE MAN WITH THE "FLO"

Hi Kiwis!

Its been a while since I posted on my blog - but I am back!

I wanted to create a new series of interviews where I introduce to you new artists, artists you may have never heard of before and give you something fresh and interesting to listen to and read. I love music from all parts of the world and hope you enjoy this new series on my blog.

Recently, I interviewed Indiana's Breon Jones aka "Flostorm". You can check out his music on Soundcloud right here: https://soundcloud.com/flostorm

Check out my interview with him below!

(Photo: Facebook)



Hi Breon! Could you tell us a little bit about yourself – where you are from and when you first discovered your passion for music?

I am from Gary, Indiana. I was raised mainly by a single mother. Very strong woman, making the best out of a tough situation. Never had to question the next meal. I discovered my passion for music in the eighth grade after a poetry assignment was given. I began with poetry and then it just evolved from there.


Musically, where do you draw your inspiration from when coming up with ideas and writing your lyrics?

I draw my inspiration from the MCs of the 80's and more currently artist like Lupe Fiasco. I have a goal to make every bar count to get my point across, and artist like Rakim, Biggie, Nas, Common, and many others along that mold, that demonstrate that hip hop is a skill, not a gimmick.


Where did the name “Flostorm” originate from?

The name FloStorm was actually what I titled the poem from the poetry assignment.


To anyone who hasn’t heard of you or listened to any of your tracks – describe what “Flostorm” music sounds like?

I would describe my sound as catchy intellect. It's smart lyrics with addictive cadences that make ya head bounce.


I’m from New Zealand and discovered you through Phat Kamp Entertainment NZ – when I first listened to your music on Soundcloud there was something almost refreshing sounding about it. I was really impressed, you have great flow and vocals – what is the ultimate goal for you musically?

My ultimate goal musically is to be able to eat from my passion. I also wanna be recognized among the greats as one of the best who ever graced the mic. Doesn't necessarily have to translate into mainstream success, but the respect is a big thing for me.




Thank you so much for taking time out to have a chat about your music, I look forward to seeing what the future holds for you. Keep doing what you’re doing!

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HANDS ON CREATURES: I HELD A TARANTULA!

Hi Kiwi's!

Its been a little while since I've posted - recently I visited 'Hands on Creatures' in Titirangi. A place where you can get hands on with all types of creatures from: Blue Tongued Skinks, Geckos, Cockroaches, Weta's, Rats, Avondale Spiders and more! Just to name a few.

You are also able to hold a few Tarantulas! (Correct me if I am wrong) But this is the only place in New Zealand where you are able to meet a few furry 8-legged beauties. Being someone who has been terrified of spiders since I was a small child, I was so surprised once I actually saw the Hands On Creatures Spiders in person, my anxieties fell away from me. Brian Lawton who owns and runs this business made me feel at ease and safe in the environment we were in which greatly contributed to me finding it easy to hold these spiders - the first spider I met was an Avondale Spider (Also known as the Huntsman) It was so surreal and I was fascinated by how pretty it was. I handled it with ease which I found so odd, a year ago I would have been like "HELL NO".  Even crazier, I even got it put onto my face - click on the video below to see for yourself - it felt really weird, and a tiny pit prickly and ticklish.

(UPDATE AS OF OCTOBER 2021: Unfortunately the Tarantula experience is no longer available and Hands on Creatures has relocated)

We also got to hold his other bugs and learned so much about each creature and learned so many things we didn't know before going in. As the time went on I could feel myself growing a new appreciation for creatures a lot of us pay no attention too or find "gross" and "eeky". Its surprising just how your old opinions can change once you actually research them and educate yourself on these bugs. Their looks and appearances aside, most of them aren't even that scary or harmful - minus a few.  Asides from the bugs and reptiles, I finally got to see some rats and hold one of them - dream come true!

I was a little apprehensive going in to Hands On Creatures and unsure if it was really worth forking money out for but after going in and experiencing everything for myself, I can say 100% it was so worth it. You learn so many things, get to spend some time with each creature and have a hold and ask questions if you like. The environment is very laid back and you feel safe where you are.

I was feeling a little nervous but excited to meet Brian's beautiful Tarantulas after a few months of prepping myself up after discovering "Exotics Lair" on YouTube and watching his videos of his pet Tarantulas. That channel very much inspired me to want to be able to at least once in my life time hold a Tarantula or own one, so going to Hands On Creatures would be first ticked off my list. I googled Tarantulas in New Zealand and discovered an article written up about Brian and his Tarantulas. From there I rung him up and made a booking and I don't regret it one bit.

I was the first to hold his Peruvian Pink Toed Tarantula and my goodness she was so cute! I was a tiny bit nervous but as soon as I laid eyes on her and had her on my hand I was in heaven. Its a very odd way to describe the experience, but it truly was beautiful. I was so fascinated and in awe of her. I was surprised with myself just how casual I was about it but I could have held her for hours if it weren't for how fragile she was. We each took turns holding a few other ones he had and he told us a few stories about them and about their behaviours etc. It was such a great memory made, its made me want to own my own (If only they were allowed as pets in our country). One of the T's I held for a little bit before he put her back, started to kick back hairs on me without me realizing what she was doing which I found a little bit funny but lucky he picked her up and put her back into her enclosure before any could get onto me.

It was such a great 3-hours spent among such amazing creatures and I can't recommend Hands On Creatures enough - you won't regret going! If you're struggling with your fear of bugs and spiders give it a go. I never ever thought I would overcome my fear of spiders (Although I'm not a fan of a few species of spiders) or at least be able to be okay with them, educating yourself on them can help so much and handling them or being up close to them can definitely help when you are ready to face your fear. Thank you to Brian for welcoming us into your home and making our experience with you one for the books.

You can book Hands On Creatures for events, birthday parties etc and I'm really wanting to have them for my birthday next year - fingers crossed. Or like we did, you can make a booking to visit his home for an experience.



FOR MORE INFO:

fb.com/handsoncreatures



PHOTOS FROM HANDS ON CREATURES

Photos: Koko Whitehouse and Beatrice 

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Women with a voice: Maple Lane (Talking to Ashleigh Grey)

Hi Kiwi's!

The other week I popped into a brand new Retro/Vintage store: "Maple Lane" located in the heart of Green Bay - a cute, little store for those who love old fashioned items from: Comic books, Decor, Homeware items, Clothing and furniture pieces. This shop also doubles as a Beauty Parlour and is run by Ashleigh Grey and her mother. Here you can book by appointment for a Beauty Makeover, Brow and Wax tinting, Eye lash tinting and more! For more info check out her facebook: fb.com/maplelanestore

She welcomed me through her doors to photograph her store and even gifted me with one of her Homemade Candles: "Lemon Cheesecake". She has a beautiful range of other candles you can purchase at a great price - and they smell incredible! Thank you so much Ashleigh!

Stepping into this store is like stepping into a time capsule or some kind of retro fairytale. It was hard not to feel a sense of nostalgia looking at certain items she had for sale and the layout and colour scheme of the shop is stunning. Everything about it pays tribute to different eras. It has only been open for four weeks, but I can already see this shop becoming something truly special.

Unfortunately I didn't end up meeting Ashleigh when I visited her store but I had a chit-chat with her about how Maple Lane came to be over email. Have a read and be sure to check out her Instagram for regular updates. And of course I highly recommend you visiting her shop when you get the chance!

Maple Lane
85 Godley Road
Green Bay

Q: Hi Ashleigh! Thank you for taking the time to have a little talk with me – also thank you again for letting me into your store to Photograph. Could you introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about “Maple Lane” and how it came to be?

Thank you so much for taking the time to interview me and photograph! Well my names Ashleigh and I’m a makeup artist, and owner of Maple Lane. I'm 21 years old, I love my do, old movies and collecting quirky things. Maple Lane was created by my mum and I, named after our crazy pug Maple. We've always had a love of vintage and retro, our whole house is covered in it! We decided one day to take a massive leap and open up our own store, it took a lot of hard work but here we are!

Q: What was your inspiration behind wanting to own and run your own Retro/Vintage store and how long did it take from coming up with the idea to turning that idea into a reality?

We have always had a big love for Retro/vintage and have always loved looking at vintage stores. I love the nostalgia the items can bring to people! We have always jokingly said we would love to have our own retro store but never really thought about it being a reality, until last year when we decided we would actually do it. It took a lot of hard work and renovations, the store used to be our old garage! We had a few set backs but kept on going as we were determined.

Q: What are some of your favourite items you have or have had come into your store and do you have your own personal collection of retro/vintage items?

I kind of fall in love with everything in the store and want to keep it all for myself! But some of my favourite things are the kewpie dolls, I'm obsessed. Our house is full of retro things, and always has been so its kind of the norm for me. Ive always been fascinated with old things so it makes sense.

Q: I love that you’ve combined your store into a Beauty Parlour as well – how long have you been a make-up artist and what are your go-to looks on clients?

I've been a makeup artist for a while now, although I went to Cut Above last year to get my certification. I also do tinting/waxing and eyelash extensions! My go to look would have to be a glowing skin and a smokey eye, cant go wrong.

Q: I am in love with your store, its like stepping into a retro/vintage fairytale! You’ve only been opened for a short period of time – what are your ultimate goals for Maple Lane if you have any?

Thats a cool way to put it, thank you! We’ve been open for just on 4 weeks now! My ultimate goal would be for more people to know about us and for us to just grow overall as a business.

Q: To those who have never been into your store – what can people expect when visiting?

I would say expect some things that you've definitely seen before and love, along with some quirky different things you may have never seen! I would say there is definitely something for everyone. For the older generations there is a lot of nostalgia and memories that come along with the items.

Q: Before we finish, I have been doing a series on my blog called: “Women with a voice” where I interview women who I find interesting or inspiring in one way or another. And I always ask them these two questions: What does being a woman mean to you and what do you love most about being a woman?

That sounds awesome, thank you for including me! Being a woman means a lot to me. It means being strong and resilient, confident and comfortable in your own skin, thoughtful and empathetic, the list goes on. It really means so many different things and its hard to put into words what its really like to be a woman , all I know is I love it and have a lot of respect for women. What I love most is being apart of such an amazing group. I get such a sense of pride when I see other woman accomplish amazing things, it really makes me feel like I could do amazing things too. I love how uplifting and supportive a group of woman can be to each other and others. I feel as a group, woman have a long way to come in terms of equality, but woman are determined!

Q: Thank you so much for taking the time to speak, I can’t wait to come back in and make more purchases from your shop. Keep in touch!

Thank you so much! I really appreciate it and all the best for your upcoming projects and work! Cant wait to read more! Ashleigh xx

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Women with a voice: Debbie Cordes

Hi Kiwi's!

It has been a while since we've touched base on my series: "Women with a voice" I created this series where I interview different women from different backgrounds, countries and asked them: "What does being a woman mean to you?" I wanted a series where I would talk to women I found inspiring or interesting in some way. I wanted to create a space where other women could read about their stories, be inspired or have a place where they could escape too when life is getting a little rough.

I ask this question: "What does being a woman mean to you?" because I wanted to know how other women see themselves. I wanted to create a space for other females to thrive in, in a positive and healthy way. To show other women they are not alone in how they may perceive themselves - I wanted to show just how alike a lot of us are and to have a space where others can grow together in and perhaps change their negative outlook on life.

I am big on supporting other females, as hard as it has been in the past to love myself, to not compare myself to other women, to not drag other women down when I have felt insecure - I came up with this idea where I would interview all kinds of females and get them to share small pieces of their lives.  I have found speaking to the few women I have interviewed, to have been a very eye opening and inspiring experience. The saying: "Never judge a book by its cover" is so true. We each all have our own stories to tell and its amazing to see so many young, talented and strong women pursuing their goals and making the most of every day.

Recently I had a chat to Debbie Cordes - someone I have known for many years. Although we have not been close, I have been following her adventures through her photographs on Instagram for the past year or so. She recently moved to London through Au Pair and I chatted to her online and this is what she had to say. Its a bit of a read but one worth reading if you have a little time to spare out of your day.

Q: Hi Debbie! Thanks for chatting today. Could you tell us a little bit about yourself and what part of the world you are right now?

Hey Koko, no worries, thanks for interviewing me! I am 25-years old and at the beginning of this year I decided to quit my job and live in London as an au pair for two-years. I love to travel, I find it so inspiring and love to capture places I explore on my camera. Also love to write about all my adventures in my journal. I have been living in London since April and I love it.


Q: Wow, that is really inspiring, especially at 25-years old! How did you find the transition from moving from New Zealand to London?

I was so scared! But also so excited. This has been a big dream of mine for a long time, to live in another country. The days leading up to my flight were very nerve wracking. It was so sad saying goodbye to my family, cat and friends. I was a crying mess at the airport. I remember sitting on the plane and it started to take off and I burst into tears realizing I was all alone on my way to a foreign country. But a few hours into the flight I was so excited and happy and have been fine ever since. (100% recommend binging Harry Potter on the plane!)

(Brighton, London. IG: @mermaid_debbie)

(Richmond Park, London. IG: @mermaid_debbie)


Q: I've been following your photos of your current adventures, exploring on Social media - so many gorgeous architectures and views! What has been a highlight or "WOW" moment for you during your travels, while living in London that stands out?

Ah awesome! There are so many pretty places here. Ohh there have been so many. I think it would be my first day when I went exploring and I saw Buckingham Palace for the first time. Wow, just blew me away because I have seen it so many times on TV and I was seeing it in person for the first time. It hit me then that I was in London, on the other side of the world living my dream. Wow!

(Buckingham Palace. IG: @mermaid_debbie)



Q: It does look and sounds very dreamy. I can only imagine how surreal it must feel to be living in a beautiful place. A few months ago I did a series on my blog called: "Women with a voice" where I asked different women: "What does being a woman mean to you?" I asked them about what they found their strengths to be in the world right now, what inspires them daily and what they love about being a woman - I ask you this because I think it is really amazing how you've picked up your life to move to a completely different country alone. I can only imagine how scary and exciting that would be. I think you're very brave for taking a big step towards your goals. So Debbie: What does being a woman mean to you?

Yes it's so dreamy! Sometimes I just can't believe it. Oh wow that's cool, what a great blog post (totally just went on your page and checked it out, love it!!!!). Firstly thank you so much! I definitely recommend doing the things that scare you.

Being a woman to me is just being myself without worrying about what people are thinking about me (stuff them haha). This has been such a big thing for me in the past year, I have never been more myself and feeling so confident with it. Also expressing myself, being creative, lifting other people up, being kind and showing love to others but most importantly to myself.

( Swanage. IG: @mermaid_debbie)

(Disneyland, Paris. IG: @mermaid_debbie)

( Eiffel Tower, Paris. IG: @mermaid_debbie)



Q: I love that! I think we all as women should be supporting one another, living our lives as our best selves and show love to one another. The world has so much to offer and there are so many amazing places to explore, see and people to meet. Its nice to hear you also have similar feelings on this. What advice would you give to a fellow woman who was struggling to find themselves or cared a lot about what others thought of them?

Yes there definitely needs to be more love in the world. The world is a huge place and there is so much to learn. My advice is to read "The Four Agreements" By Miguel Ruiz. This book changed my life! I always recommend it to people and they say the same thing. One of the agreements is: "Don't take anything personally." and Miguel talks about how people do and say things based in their own beliefs, feelings and upbringing etc. And what people do or say has nothing to do with what you are doing. It's all about changing your mindset. It is so freeing when your mind is free from what other people are doing/thinking.

Taking a break from Social Media can be so refreshing. During that time, take time for yourself, doing all your favourite things. You will find you have so much more time! Surround yourself with positive, uplifting people. Cut out people who bring you down (Why waste time with people who don't make you feel your best). Be grateful everyday for everything you have and you will start to feel so much happiness. I know it's so hard worrying about what people think of you and yeah I still get caught up in it a lot sometimes. But you just have to change your mind. Think good thoughts like: "This is my body, it takes me to so many places. Over mountains, through oceans. I am so lucky!" I used to struggle with my big thighs but honestly who cares. I wear shorts with pride, they carry me over so many beautiful places and wow that's so beautiful!

(Redwoods Forest, New Zealand. IG: @mermaid_debbie)

(Uretiti, New Zealand. IG: @mermaid_debbie)



Q: What an absolutely beautiful way to look at things - changing your mindset is powerful and I have found this too. Thank you for sharing.

You're welcome!


Q: Before we end - what is your favourite photo you have saved on your camera roll or have taken. And can you share with us the story behind it? I ask this because I feel like a photo is worth a thousand words and can tell you a lot about the person taking it.

This photo was taken from the top of the Eiffel Tower. Once I made it to the top of the Eiffel Tower there were huge flashes of lightening and the loudest thunder ever! It was constant, every few seconds. The biggest thunderstorm I have ever seen. It was amazing! I watched the lightning and saw it raining in the distance. Then suddenly it started pouring rain. (I hadn't felt rain for 2 months maybe, its been so hot and dry). So I stood at the top of the Eiffel Tower with my hands up towards the sky, feeling the rain falling on me and got completely soaked. It was so cleansing and something I will always remember. I was the only one standing in the rain up there and it just felt so beautiful to be experiencing this by myself. I remember I started laughing so much, ah it would have been cool if someone took a photo of me like that haha. It was totally worth the huge puddles in my shoes. It was 37 degrees that day, it was bliss washing away all the heat and sweat. And I love the clouds in this photo!

Q: What an experience! That is so beautiful. Thank you for sharing pieces of your life with me. I appreciate you taking the time to answer my questions and hearing what you had to say. I wish you all the best on your endeavours and look forward to seeing more of your adventures on the gram. Talk soon! Thank you Debbie.

Awww you're welcome and thank you!! I love seeing your photos and blog posts. Can't wait to see what else you create. Have a good night 

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Aiyanah's 1st Birthday: "The Wiggles" THEME

Hi Kiwi's!

Last weekend I photographed for my little cousins 1st birthday, which was themed "The Wiggles" it was a great opportunity for me in working up my experience and working on my confidence. So I was very pleased and happy when I was asked.

Cherry B Events did an incredible job at putting everything together with help from other great businesses organizing and making the desserts and food. I had fun photographing and making the most of a special occasion. And also the hot meals made by family were delicious.

Below are just a few of the photos from the event.

I also created a free website where you can view Photos I have taken in different categories:
http://bloggingsofakiwi.wixsite.com/kokophotography

Also when you click the link about, you can view the other photos that were taken at Aiyanah's birthday if you like.



CHERRY B EVENTS

Cassie Isaacs

Event Planner -021 084 80674

​Shafiek Isaacs

Event Operations Manager

​

E: cherrybeventsnz@gmail.com

THE PLATTER COLLECTIVE

Mob: 02108389845

E: hello@theplattercollective.com

Photography: Koko Whitehouse (IG: @kokowhitehouse)

Camera: Fuji X-T20

Photo Software: Lightroom 5

Facebook: fb.com/bloggingsofakiwi

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