Archive for 'Child Star Style'

Angelina Jolie Praises Child Star Thomas Horn But Brad Pitt Says The Jolie-Pitt Kids Won’t Be Child Actors

Posted on 11. Jan, 2012 by .

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Angelina Jolie ran into the child star of Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close,Thomas Horn, age 14, on January 7, 2012 at the Palm Springs International Film Festival. She approached him on the red carpet and introduced herself to the dapper teen actor dressed in tuxedo and bow tie.

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie attend the Palm Springs Film Festival

“Hey, I’ve heard you’re amazing,” Angelina told 14-year-old Thomas, “[It's} very, very nice to meet you. It's an honor." She bent down to his eye level and asked him if he has done events like the red carpet before, and he admitted it was his first time.

"Are you excited or is it weird?" Angelina asked. "It's weird, but exciting, I guess," Thomas replied as his EL&IC co-star Tom Hanks looked on like a proud father.

Jolie then told Horn that her kids (MaddoxPaxZaharaShilohKnox and Vivienne) are fans of his work.

"You should be really, really proud. You've done great things," Angie told him. "My kids already think you're cool, so I'll tell them I met you and they'll think I'm cool."

Tom Hanks and Thomas Horn at the Palm Springs International Film Festival

But while the Jolie-Pitt kids may think Thomas Horn is cool, it will be awhile before they can follow in his film-making footsteps if dad Brad Pitt has his way. According to Hollyscoop.com, Pitt’s open to the kids becoming actors — only not until they’re adults.

“Whatever they want to do,” Pitt he told the gossip Web site at the Palm Springs International Film Festival. “Whatever makes them happy. [But] not until they’re eighteen.”

Pitt and Jolie walked the red carpet at the film festival to accept the Desert Palm Achievement Award for his performance in Moneyball.

 

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GIVING BACK: Join RADIO DISNEY’s Winter Family Festival, Sunday Dec. 4

GIVING BACK: Join RADIO DISNEY’s Winter Family Festival, Sunday Dec. 4

Posted on 21. Nov, 2011 by .

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Radio Disney AM 1110 is getting into the holiday spirit with Festival of Giving at Winter Family Festival, where you can bring your charitable gifts all to one place to benefit the community.

The Winter Family Festival is fun for the entire family – play in TONS of snow and enjoy music, crafts, free photos with Santa, classic cars, face painting, food trucks, and the Radio Disney Road Crew, who will keep the party rockin’ with some awesome beats and treats!

It all takes place on Sunday, December 4th from 1:30pm to 5:30pm at Beeman Park in Studio City! Park free and take the shuttle from CBS Studio Center, 4024 Radford Avenue, Studio City, CA 91604. Shuttles run from 1:00pm to 6:00pm. Please visit RadioDisney.com/LosAngeles for details.

Charities benefitting from this event include: Pet Orphans, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bookends, LAPD North Hollywood Division, North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry, St. Charles Borromeo Church Food Pantry and Operation Uplift. Each charity will be on-site to take donations.

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CHILD STAR STYLE: Kendall & Kylie Jenner Host HELLO KITTY Launch at Forever 21 Hollywood!

CHILD STAR STYLE: Kendall & Kylie Jenner Host HELLO KITTY Launch at Forever 21 Hollywood!

Posted on 19. Nov, 2011 by .

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My tween daughter Jordan and her friend Sarah pose with Lolita Girls at the Hello Kitty Launch Party at Forever 21 at the famed Hollywood and Highland Shopping Complex

Enthusiastic Hello Kitty fans pack Hollywood & Highland hoping for a chance to get into the Launch Party at Forever 21 Hollywood

Thursday night Forever 21 and Hello Kitty hosted a launch party for Forever 21 for Hello Kitty Collection in Hollywood. The dedicated fans of this clothing line launch were akin to fanboys at ComicCon.  Forever 21 customers flooded Hollywood Blvd., with the customer line then curling around into the Hollywood & Highland shopping complex all the way back to the escalators. It was truly a sight to behold.  As Hello Kitty & Forever 21 aren’t exactly focusing on my “mom demographic,” I brought along my tween daughter Jordan and her friend Sarah to gauge their take on the launch event and the clothing line.  Their overall review: Party Kinda Drab. Fashions Super Fab!

The launch party was hosted by Reality TV Child Stars Kendall and Kylie Jenner who were styled to perfection in a “Japanese Lolita meets Hello Kitty” mode.  They did several costume changes throughout the evening and impressed with every outfit. Full kudos to the girls’ stylists – they did a wonderful job.  If you can’t imagine Hello Kitty looking like runway couture, you’re not alone but I witnessed first-hand that it’s not only possible but absolutely adorable when pulled together by the pros.

The launch party was hosted by Reality TV Child Stars Kendall and Kylie Jenner

Stefanie Scott from Disney's ANT Farm

Other guests included Stefanie Scott of Disney’s A.N.T. Farm and designer Trina Tarantino.  As for the shindig itself, the biggest snafu was that the store was poorly laid out for a large party. Most of the new Hello Kitty fashions were packed together in the front of the store which also happened to be the narrowest portion of the room and the place where everyone (guests, employees, paparazzi, media and security) entered and exited.  So how did this translate to party-goers who wanted to shop and possibly buy Hello Kitty fashions? It was like watching people herd cats – no Hello Kitty pun intended.  If one more well-intentioned employee told us to “keep the area clear” I was seriously going to cough up a fur ball.

I never saw Hello Kitty, but the kids told me she was modeling fashions and milling about the store. Some guests (read not us) were able to indulge at the Hello Kitty Nail Art Station which included free nail art and full manicures.  Unfortunately it was all ready booked for the entire evening when we arrived at 7:15. A Hello Kitty Sweets Station displayed delicious mini cupcakes and marshmellow Hello Kittys on a stick.  Raffles were held for one-of-a-kind Hello Kitty fashions and Hello Kitty goodie bags – but we couldn’t get our hands on the elusive raffle tickets either.

Guess what we were able to do though?  After tuning out the “Clear the Area” mantra, we shopped, shopped and then shopped some more. The girls left the event with bags of clothes and were thrilled with their purchases: Hello Kitty Leg warmers, wallets, cardigans, tee shirts, socks, scarves, flannel pajamas, hair accessories and jewelry.  All in all not a bad way for a couple of lucky tween girls to spend a school night.

Look for these adorable and affordable Hello Kitty Fashions at a Forever 21 near you!

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Meet Disney’s A.N.T. FARM Star CHINA ANNE McCLAIN Saturday at Sherman Oaks’ Fashion Square!

Meet Disney’s A.N.T. FARM Star CHINA ANNE McCLAIN Saturday at Sherman Oaks’ Fashion Square!

Posted on 26. Oct, 2011 by .

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RADIO DISNEY AM 1110 PRESENTS A SPECIAL MEET & GREET WITH “A.N.T. FARM” STAR CHINA ANNE MCCLAIN AT MACY’S FASHION SQUARE ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29

WHAT: Radio Disney AM 1110 Los Angeles and Macy’s Fashion Square Mall in Sherman Oaks presents a special meet & greet on Saturday, October 29 (2:00 p.m.) with China Anne McClain from Disney Channel’s “A.N.T. Farm,” the hit comedy series about a middle school prodigy who is enrolled in the prestigious A.N.T. (Advanced Natural Talents) program at a local high school.

The Radio Disney AM 1110 Road Crew will be on site with music and interactive activities. The first 200 fans to line up will have the opportunity to meet China Anne and receive her autograph*.

For additional details, visit www.RadioDisney.com/LosAngeles.

*Limit one autograph per customer, while supplies last and as time allows. Event subject to change or cancellation.

WHEN: Saturday, October 29
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

WHERE: Macy’s Fashion Square
Level 1
14006 Riverside Drive
Sherman Oaks, California

WHO: China Anne McClain, “Chyna Parks” from Disney Channel’s “A.N.T. Farm” and Hollywood Records recording artist. Her current single, “Calling All the Monsters” is in the top ten on Radio Disney’s Top 30.

“A.N.T. Farm” was created by Dan Signer (“The Suite Life on Deck,” “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody”) and executive-produced by Signer and Stephen Engel (“The Big Bang Theory,” “Mad About You,” “Dream On”). The comedy series is a production of It’s A Laugh Productions, Inc. It carries a TV-G parental guideline.

The “A.N.T. Farm” soundtrack, which includes the new single “Calling All the Monsters,” plus songs from and inspired by the hit series was released on October 11. Capturing all of the show’s youthful fun, the album features new and classic songs by China Anne McClain, her sisters Sierra and Lauryn, and “A.N.T. Farm’s” Stefanie Scott and Carlon Jeffery.

Disney Channel is a 24-hour kid-driven, family inclusive television network that taps into the world of kids and families through original series and movies. Currently available on basic cable in over 99 million U.S. homes and to millions of other viewers on Disney Channels around the world, Disney Channel is part of the Disney/ABC Television Group.

Radio Disney is the #1, 24-hour radio network devoted to kids, tweens and families. Kids help pick the music that is played and are encouraged to interact via a toll-free phone line to the Radio Disney studio. The network’s current playlist, driven by listener requests and representing major record labels, includes recording artists Selena Gomez & The Scene, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Willow Smith, Cody Simpson, Katy Perry, Taio Cruz and Allstar Weekend. The network is available on 34 terrestrial radio stations and is also available via RadioDisney.com, Sirius and XM satellite radio on channel 79, iTunes Radio Tuner, mobile phones and on the Radio Disney iPhone and Android Apps.

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Get DISCOUNTED Cirque du Soleil IRIS Tickets through the ACTORS FUND Program!

Get DISCOUNTED Cirque du Soleil IRIS Tickets through the ACTORS FUND Program!

Posted on 21. Oct, 2011 by .

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Cirque du Soleil has graciously donated a block of tickets so that 100% of the proceeds go to support The Actors Fund programs and services.

Please let friends and family know about this wonderful evening that supports a very worthy cause!!

Cirque du Soleil – Iris, A Journey Through the World of Cinema
Date: Friday. October 28, 2011
Time: 8pm

Kodak Theatre
6801 Hollywood Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA, 90028

Special Actors Fund rate:
Parterre Right: Rate 133.00 – Special AF Rate: 113.00
Mezzanine II Center: Rate 103.00 – Special AF Rate: 88.00
Mezzanine II Left: Rate 78.00 – Special AF Rate: 66.00

3 ways to buy tickets:
Visit: www.actorsfund.org
Call Meg at 323.933.9244 ext. 434
Email: mthomas@actorsfund.org

ABOUT IRIS:

With theCirque du Soleil: IRIS, you’ll get a live performance in which the film-making contraptions come to life to tear apart a director and the love of his life actress.

Unlike any other Cirque du Soleil show, IRIS caters to the Hollywood environment with the rich enhancement of the history of film. The show consists of live performances, filmed sequences, and animation. With all the different types of entertainment, you’ll be sure to enjoy every second.

The show will be at the Kodak Theatre through to the end of December, but these shows will sell out quickly. Make sure to buy your tickets soon to ensure you are able to see this show. Cirque du Soleil changes their shows often, with many different shows happening in the world at once, but this show is catered to your area.

You won’t want to miss all the dancing, acrobatics, music, and entertainment. It’s packed full of visual art so powerful, you’ll want to see it again.

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The Actors Space West Debuts 2 Short Films This Saturday, 9-10-11

The Actors Space West Debuts 2 Short Films This Saturday, 9-10-11

Posted on 08. Sep, 2011 by .

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What: World Premiere Screening of 2 short films shot during The Actors Space West 2011 summer camp sessions.

When: Saturday September 10, 2011 at 10am

Where: Laemmle Fallbrook, in Theater #1

Tickets are only $3.00!

Please reserve your seats now! @ www.valleyactors.com/Paypal.html

Summer Camp Actors are on the VIP list – no ticket charge!  Interviews and Photo Session with Campers to precede screening so please arrive early! Meet and greet the stars of tomorrow!!

2011 The Actors Space West Fall Class Schedule

Mondays
Kids Foundational class with Sara Wood
ages 9 – 13
6pm – 8pm
Fall session starts September 12th

Tuesdays
Young Kids with Kara Smith
ages 5 -8
4pm – 5:30pm
Fall session starts September 13th

Tuesdays
*NEW!
Adult On-Camera Class
with Martin Thompson
7:00pm – 10:00pm
Tuesday Sept. 13th – November 1st

Wednesdays
Scene Study with Sara Wood
Adults ages 16+
6:30 pm to 10:30pm

Saturdays
Teen Scene Study with Sara Wood
ages 13 -18
12:00-3:00pm

to register http://www.valleyactors.com/Paypal.html

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Hollywood Mom Blog Rocks the SPY KIDS: ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD IN 4D Pre-Screening!

Hollywood Mom Blog Rocks the SPY KIDS: ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD IN 4D Pre-Screening!

Posted on 01. Aug, 2011 by .

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Jeremy Piven greets the Burks Girls at Spy Kids!

By all accounts, last weeks special pre-screening of  SPY KIDS: ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD IN 4D at the Arclight Hollywood was a huge success!  SPY KID Child Stars Rowan Blanchard and Mason Cook were on hand to mingle with Hollywood Mom’s readership after the screening and thankfully, Hollywood Mom Elise Burks became an impromptu photographer catching her daughters Ariana and Anaiya with the film’s stars (like Jeremy Piven left) and other HMB families.  Everyone raved about the film and some called it the best film yet of the beloved SPY KIDS franchise.

Some other lucky HMB readers who attended the screening were HM Olivia Lopez and dd Natalie Lopez; HM Kathy Drelling Card and daughters Sophia and Simone; HM Dani with daughter Damoni Burkhardt;  HM Karean Chapman and her girls, Shayna and Mikayla; and HM Lilli Baur attended with son’s Niko and Caden Baur.

HMB Readers Rock!: Child actors Ariana Burks and Anaiya Burks meet fellow child actors and SPY KIDS stars, Rowan Blanchard and Mason Cook, at the Hollywood Mom Blog pre-screening at the Arclight Hollywood last Thursday.

SPY KIDS Star Rowan Blanchard poses with HMB kids Fellow child actors, Sophia and Simone Card.

The Chapman girls and Damoni Burkhardt anticipate the pre-screening!

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Hollywood Mom Blog Readers Are Invited to a Complimentary Screening of SPY KIDS: ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD IN 4D

Hollywood Mom Blog Readers Are Invited to a Complimentary Screening of SPY KIDS: ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD IN 4D

Posted on 23. Jul, 2011 by .

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Exciting news Hollywood Moms! Hollywood Mom Blog readers are being offered complimentary passes to the film SPY KIDS: ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD IN 4D. The film is not only in 4D and but was shot with “aromascope” which offers viewers to “smell” the experience!   I just experienced 4D & aromascope and I promise you, the kids LOVE IT!

SPY KIDS: ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD IN 4D Screening

WHEN: Thursday, July 28

WHERE: ArcLight Hollywood, 6360 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA

TIME: 7:30PM

HOW TO GET PASSES: You will need to answer the question “If you were a spy, what kind of gadget would you have?”  Include the names, ages, address, and number of guests. Then send this information to spykids4la@gmail.com with “SPY KIDS” in the email subject line. Only correct entries will be applicable.

PLEASE NOTE: Seating is limited to first come, first served, and is NOT guaranteed so please arrive about an hour before showtime.

View the trailer at: http://trailers.apple.com/trailers/independent/spykidsallthetimeintheworld/

ABOUT:
On the surface, Marissa Cortez Wilson (Jessica Alba) has it all…married to a famous spy hunting television reporter, a new baby and intelligent twin step kids. But in reality, trying to mother Rebecca (Rowan Blanchard) and Cecil (Mason Cook), who clearly don’t want her around, is her toughest challenge yet. Also, her husband, Wilbur (Joel McHale), wouldn’t know a spy if he lived with one which is exactly the case – Marissa’s a retired secret agent.

Marissa’s world is turned upside down when the maniacal Timekeeper (Jeremy Piven) threatens to take over the planet and she’s called back into action by the head of OSS, home of the greatest spies and where the now-defunct Spy Kids division was created. With Armageddon quickly approaching, Rebecca and Cecil are thrust into action when they learn their boring step-mom was once a top agent and now the world’s most competitive ten year olds are forced to put their bickering aside and rely on their wits.  With a little help from a couple of very familiar former Spy Kids, Carmen (Alexa Vega) and Juni Cortez (Daryl Sabara), and some mind-blowing gadgets, they just may be able to save the world and possibly bring their family together while they’re at it.

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CHILD STAR STYLE: Top Child Actresses Collaborate on VOGUE Pajama Party Pictorial

CHILD STAR STYLE: Top Child Actresses Collaborate on VOGUE Pajama Party Pictorial

Posted on 15. Jun, 2011 by .

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In better-late-than-never news,  Hollywood Mom Blog favorites: Chloe Moretz, 14, Hailee Steinfeld, 14, and Elle Fanning 13 recently joined forces for a gorgeous Vogue shoot. It’s no surprise to us that this trio were chosen for the piece as they’ve quickly become fashion icons not only for the 16 and under set, but for the entire age spectrum of the fashion conscience.  While many of their contemporaries are wearing colorful and festive attire fashionable for children, these three young ladies have each uniquely managed to walk the line of age-appropriate and ageless simultaneously with their design choices. It’s certainly a new and more sophisticated breed of child actor we’re growing here in Hollywood these days.

The pictorial, which was shot by Bruce Weber on location at the Chateau Marmont in Hollywood, ran in the May edition of Vogue Magazine. As you may recall, Elle recently shot “Somewhere” at the famed hotel.  Elle’s big sister, Dakota Fanning and top model Natalia Vodianova also make appearances in the pictorial.

Young Stars Chloe Moretz, 12, Hailee Steinfeld, 13, and Elle Fanning 13, are the focus of a pajama party pictorial for VOGUE

Bruce Weber VOGUE Shoot at the Chateau

Dakota Fanning and Natalia Vodianova check into the famed Chateau Marmont

Chloe Moretz, Hailee Steinfeld and Elle Fanning with Natalia Vodianova slumber at the Chateau Marmont in Hollywood

Chloe Moretz, Hailee Steinfeld, Natalia Vodianova and Elle Fanning

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Want a Not Bummer Summer? Go See the JUDY MOODY Movie! PLUS Score Ideas for Your Own Judy Moody Party Inspired by the Premiere After-Party!

Want a Not Bummer Summer? Go See the JUDY MOODY Movie! PLUS Score Ideas for Your Own Judy Moody Party Inspired by the Premiere After-Party!

Posted on 10. Jun, 2011 by .

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Jordana Beatty as Judy Moody. Photo Credit: Suzanne Tenner © 2011

Last weekend my daughter Jordan and I were fortunate enough to attend the Premiere of “Judy Moody & the Not Bummer Summer!” at the Arclight Theaters in Hollywood.   Along with the cast Jordana Beatty, Heather Graham, Parris Mosteller,  Garrett Ryan and Preston Bailey, there was an impressive showing of today’s top child stars walking the carpet: Allisyn Ashley Arm, Audrey Whitby, Ciara Bravo, Garrett Ryan, Morgan Lily, Matthew Scott, Brandon Tyler Russell, Tucker Albrizzi, Cameron Boyce, Max Burkholder, Kieran Shipka, Justin Tinucci, Alli Simpson, BooBoo Stewart, Darcy Rose Byrnes, Camryn Magness, Dylan Riley Snyder, Riley Thomas Stewart, Katherine McNamara, Jennessa Rose, Taylar Hender, Fivel Stewart, Tyree Brown and so many more!

Check out our whole Judy Moody journey in pictures here! The film opens nationwide TODAY and if you want a not bummer summer – I suggest you drive directly to the nearest theater and buy your tickets!

ABOUT THE MOVIE

Relativity Media and Smokewood Entertainment Group are proud to bring you this summer’s smash hit, “Judy Moody & the Not Bummer Summer!” In this film adaptation of the popular book series, Judy Moody is planning the most super-duper, double-rare summer break ever… until her BFF’s Rocky and Amy thwart those plans by heading out of town on their own thrilladelic vacations.

Judy Moody warms up to Aunt Opal over Fondue

Aunt Opal Knows how to Party! Earns serious Thrill Points!

Photo Credit: Suzanne Tenner © 2011

Now Judy is stuck at home with her annoying brother Stink and her not-so-adventuresome friend, Frank Pearl. Ugh. But matters quickly worsen when Judy’s parents drop the bomb that they too are headed out of town – without Judy & Stink. Enter mysterious Aunt Opal (Heather Graham), who has agreed to care for her neice & nephew even though she’s never met them and doesn’t seem to know much about children or driving for that matter!  It appears all Judy’s grand plans for a thrill-filled summer have washed up. But with perseverance and help from some unlikely sources, she may just be surprised at how thrilladelic things get!

Photo Credit: Suzanne Tenner © 2011

Genres: Comedy, Kids/Family and Adaptation
Release Date: June 10th, 2011 (wide)
MPAA Rating: PG for for mild rude humor and language.

ABOUT THE PREMIERE

Usually I wouldn’t go on and on about a premiere after party but this one was particularly well done.  Themes from the movie were beautifully incorporated into the amazing after-party in the form of food, drinks, decor, entertainment, design, activities & games. All the kids were having the best time – even the parents were walking around with smiles on their faces.  Then it hit me. All of these Judy Moody inspired booths would be perfect (and EASY) to recreate for your own personal Judy Moody party!  So for those of you Hollywood Moms who love taking the kids to a movie (or when it’s released on DVD, showing the movie at home) and then following up with a themed party, I’ll be posting later on these ideas especially for YOU. For now – peruse our gallery of after-party pictures and download this super cool Judy Moody activity sheet!


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CHILD STAR STYLE: Exclusive SALE of Red Carpet Fave KAIYA EVE

CHILD STAR STYLE: Exclusive SALE of Red Carpet Fave KAIYA EVE

Posted on 09. Jun, 2011 by .

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Child Star Bailee Madison in Kaiya Eve

From yesterday’s young Dakota Fanning to today’s top tween stars Bailee Madison, Allison Ashley Arm, Bella Thorne and Ryan Newman, Kaiya Eve has been the popular red carpet pick for the last decade.

When my daughter was younger I would spend hours with Kaiya Eve designer Kandi Lightner in her Santa Monica home fawning over all her many creations. I remember one particular excursion when I spent hundreds (and I mean hundred$$$$$) of dollars on her beautiful designer sets.

Well now your own child star can own these same pieces at HUGE savings. Kaiya Eve is holding an exclusive, appointment-only warehouse sale in which every garment will be priced at WHOLESALE. You read it right, WHOLESALE PRICES! If you or your friends have fashionable little girls from infant size to 8/10 years old, now is the time to score a rare deal on young Hollywoods favorite twirly skirts, ruffly tops and more! Call 310-968-0408 to make your appointment today and be sure to tell them Hollywood Mom Blog sent you!

Ryan Newman looking lovely in Kaiya Eve Couture's Spring collection

Tween Stars like Bella Thorne (center) choose Kaiya Eve for it's SUPER WOW factor and easy wearability!

Eye-catching Colors & Flouncy Fabrics make Kaiya Eve the natural choice for photos shoots and red carpet events

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Stylists Kemal + Karla Do Hailee Steinfeld Serious Red Carpet Justice

Stylists Kemal + Karla Do Hailee Steinfeld Serious Red Carpet Justice

Posted on 03. May, 2011 by .

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Make a mental note of this – when it’s finally time for your child star to shine on the red carpet, immediately dial up Stylists Kemal + Karla , the world’s first bi-coastal styling team (Kemal is based in NYC and Karla is based in LA). Together this dynamic fashion duo provide looks for today’s top celebrities, musicians, magazines, advertising campaigns and consult on various designer collections. They’re also responsible for this gorgeous nude-toned gown worn by the equally beautiful child star Hailee Steinfeld at the The Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Gala 2011 also teasingly known as the Academy Awards of Fashion.  The dress is a modified Stella McCartney design and the shoes are Nicholas Kirkwood. Wow.

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The Actors Fund’s Looking Ahead Program at Nickelodeon Studios’ Pic@NIC: A Day of Fun in the Sun for Our Child Actors!

The Actors Fund’s Looking Ahead Program at Nickelodeon Studios’ Pic@NIC: A Day of Fun in the Sun for Our Child Actors!

Posted on 03. May, 2011 by .

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Damoni Burkhardt & Phil Lewis

Written by HMB correspondent Danielle Burkhardt mother of rising star Damoni Burkhardt

My daughter (child actor Damoni Burkhardt) and I attended the pic@Nick event on Sunday, May 1, 2011 hosted by The Actors Fund’s Looking Ahead Program at Nickelodeon Studios.  Looking Ahead is a program of The Actors Fund which is dedicated to helping professional young performers between the ages of 9-18 and their families manage the unique challenges associated with working in the entertainment industry.

It was a great event, with perfect weather. Everyone was so nice and everything was free, something you don’t find often in this business!  There was unlimited cotton candy , candy, snacks and drinks; sandwiches and chips were provides by Corner Bakery and drinks by Coca Cola.  Cartoon Sketch artists drew cartoons of each child, while others opted for the temporary tattoo table, rock wall, sumo wresting pit and carnival games.  It was a day for kids to be kids and that is so very important for our young performers.

Child Actors enjoying the Pic@NIC!

Former “Wonder Years” Child Star and now television director Fred Savage (Former Young Performer and Advisory Chair of Looking Ahead) was the event moderator.  There was a celebrity panel that included Sara Gilbert (Darlene from “Roseanne”), Patrick Labyorteaux (JAG), Phill Lewis (Mr.Moseby on “Suite Life On Deck”) and Jaleel White (Steve Urkel on “Family Matters”).  They all had great advice for the young performers and their parents on the well known ups and downs of acting. The panel spoke about the “luck of the game,” and to not ignore the signs along the way that might take your career in a different direction. The panel also advised that kids get involved in other activities and develop other skills outside of their acting endeavors.

Jaleel White spoke about moving on to the next audition after not being chosen for a part that you really wanted. He told a wonderful story about going through the long and arduous process of the audition, the callbacks, the holds and was up for the coveted role of  ”Rudy” on the iconic 80′s television series, “The Cosby Show.”  He was very excited about the role, which was given to the girl right in front of him!  White was devastated. Needless to say, he moved on and later nabbed the role of a lifetime as the character of Steve Urkel in “Family Matters.”  When asked by Fred Savage if there was one piece of advice that you could give to the young performers and their families Jaleel said “Watch how you treat people.”  Excellent advice we should all abide by and everyone on the celebrity panel agreed wholeheartedly.  We are so happy to have attended Pic@NIC and excited about being involved in The Actors Fund‘s Looking Ahead program!

Child Actor Damoni Burkhardt at the Pic@NIC