PR Blonde | slanted musings of a 20-something professional

Are You a Gladiator? –

Posted on June 19, 2013 by Lauren

Fullscreen capture 6192013 104941 AM

It’s over! After the first two days this week I feel like I solved one of the many “fixer” issues that plagued Pope & Associates. Now its possible that I am lementing the summer vacation of Scandal but after a few days in NYC is true – this city is full of Gladiators. Whether wearing it on their feet or walking with that undeniable confidence people just “make moves” here. So how do you show off your inner gladiator? Check out these fancy feet icons that tell everyone else – “i’m not messing around!”

1 Comment | Posted in Fashion & Trends, Uncategorized

The Bachelorette Ep. 4: Hope and Banana Hammocks –

Posted on June 18, 2013 by Lauren

Well, I’m not going to lie this episode had me sipping more wine and grabbing for the tissues more than usual with all of its awkward pauses and heartfelt moments. Bachelor Nation turned the other cheek and decided to class it up a notch. Can’t say I blame them after last week’s sh*tstorm and Chihuahuas screaming “cheater.” But as we descended on the Bachelor mansion one last time before the whirlwind tour we learned one thing – only travel sizes of hair gel were going to be let on the plane! Duh-dun-dun! Whatever will Desiree’s Men do?

We’ll have no fear! Chris Harrison swoops in and let’s the men know they are heading off to Atlantic City – where bottles of gel are sold by the quart! James, I know – it was a close one, and to think you would have run out of pomade to shape that slick back of yours.

Crickets gets Squashed – Brad’s Date –

First up is Brad. With an opportunity to “shine-through” Brad and Des head out for some fun on the BORED-walk. Brad and Des are like the obligatory lab partner’s that were placed together to test the laws of attraction. If this were myth busters – well myth BUSTED! These two have as much chemistry as oil and water.

I think from this date my favorite question Des asked was – “So what kind of girls do you date?” Either she is so distracted by his weird mouth movements she didn’t listen or blocked out his 1. Baby-Mama drama and 2. That he hasn’t really dated in the past several years… So after a good butt workout and climb to a very dimly lit Lighthouse – the sun was clearly setting on Brad. Though Des thought he “was a great guy and he will find someone to spend forever with” she just “didn’t see it going” all the way. Hey when the awkward mouth movements ruin it… party’s over.

Mr. America meets the Chippendales –

So after a short and snooze worthy date – arguably we finally get the episode going! Line up the boys it’s time to show off their many talents – including ribbon flicking, playing the ukulele, tap dancing (arguably the most adorable and yes I am saying that because its Kasey) and some chic model walking from an emerging airtime Drew. So what we thought would be the crux of the episode prived one thing – Shakespeare has no place on a Bachelorette Mr. America stage and Zak W. can’t sing to save his life. “Love won’t come easy” for you buddy if you keep coo-ing like that. After all that I am seriously starting to question the rest of the tone of the episode. Nearly half of the men are dressed in banana hammocks for the “swimsuit” portion of the competition but it emerged that Kasey and his tappin’ toes were to be victorious. After his Q&A it was clear this one has quite a presence. But we knew that already.

After the group date they take to the spa, all that “talent” needed to be rewarded with some relaxation. A few asides later and we find out that boys talents extend far beyond the stage – Chris has a little secret. He’s A POET! After showing his “softer side” (because we were so confused by the downplay of his pro baseball career as he was overshadowed by the meatheads) Des reward’s him with a kiss. Looks like this “2Gether” front man/doppelganger is going to be around a little while longer – even if Zak’s horrific singing voice got him a “budding” rose.

Stronger Than the Storm –

I was literally waiting for this date to take a turn. With the teaser to the date being James “prepping” in a hot bath with some rose hip scented bubbles I had almost chocked up the whole episode at this point. Where we’re we going to go from here.

Well Bachelor-land threw me for a loop as Des and James piled into a helicopter and took to the skies hovering above the jersey shore. What arguably is still one of the most destructed areas, they flew over the boardwalks, devastated homes and the iconic sunken roller-coaster still flying the American flag. I couldn’t help but think that Gov. Chris Christie was in the production booth calling the shots. But as they touched down already struck by the devastation enter in arguably the cutest couple in the history of reality TV – Manny and Jan. Married for 39 years Manny and Jan lost their house in Superstorm Sandy. As the floodwaters started to rise police were going door to door asking people to evacuate their homes – take what they could and go to a set-up Red Cross shelter to find refuge from the storm. When Manny and Jan were allowed to return to their seaside home the destruction was devastating. The house was gutted, memories, possessions and their livelihood as they knew it gone and changed.

Enter bachelor nation. With much of Superstorm Sandy’s path still weighing heavy on the shore – ABC, brought new light to this devastated couple. Forced to evacuate on their anniversary they never had the chance to celebrate. In a self-less and prompted act Des offers her and James’ nightly getaway to Manny and Jan. A couple who deserved every moment they got to spend together – from a first ever limo ride to a dinner for two – then in true Bachelor form enter my MAN Darius aka. “Hootie” Rucker for a private and heartfelt concert.

Let me just first say – Bachelor Nation you have redeemed yourself. No more trashy dates – let’s do more like these! In all my sappy glory I was weeping a tear or two – with 39 years of marriage and the show that is sometimes a circus it’s good that they are reminding these you suitors that they are here for marriage something that isn’t supposed to last 72 days! (Kim K. – that joke will never get old.)

Thanks Manny and Jan for helping us forget about all the reality TV nonsense and bringing us back to life – the shore is an icon and just like your 39 year marriage deserves the spotlight! Happy Anniversary and here’s to the next 39 years!

The Rose Ceremony –

How could you follow that segement – not even a Chris Harrison appearance and a clink of a glass could leave a lasting impression after that. But in any case with 20 minutes left there was bound to be drama. So as Michael G. pulls out the Gimmicks to woo Des, Bryden lets the wheels in his head spin as he contemplates leaving.

I can’t help but think with all the rumors swirling around that the girl at home has dinner on the table, and with the lack of attention this past week our war hero is ready to head back to the homeland for a little more TLC than shared this week. But in the end after a set-up by producers, who will it be, who will it be?

Zack K. gets the boot – wait did we even really know this guy? Guess he was just one more piece of dead weight! Till next week and another tissue box later!

P.S. Chris Harrison, as always it’s been a pleasure spending Monday’s with you!

PR POV: LIFE IN FAST FORWARD

Posted on June 14, 2013 by Lauren

It’s official I am (almost) a New York resident. Two days ago my trusty side kick – Courtney (or as you all know her - Tinderella) found our new humble abode on the UES. (Yes, using NYC eubonics now!).

So that is where I have been all week – hibernating in the world of PR events – which I have a BIG one in New York City on Tuesday morning, and the crux of my stress, apartment hunting from 1500 miles away, while prepping for The Big Move!

Now I wish I could say this process has been easy – the only thing that has been easy, my agency! They have been so great getting me all set up to move offices. Without that sanity check I would arguably be knee deep in a bottle of jack right now – and, I hate whiskey. Now we all know in PR land its like you are living on your work life on a conveyor belt. Racing from a release, to a media pitch to a digital concept, to planning and event. It’s rarely slow. So couple that with my fast paced life to complete this move and BOOM – BANANAS SANDWICH! Arguably I have had every reason to lose it, so pardon the sayings…

But apartment hunting wouldn’t be hunting without some bloggage that helped me through. I wasn’t the only one going through it – Read VMac+Cheese lately. Well she’s about a few months ahead of me and my getting settled NYC style. Reading her blogs has been like getting a phone call from t he big sis who’s trying out the big bad city before you make the leap. Thanks Lady!

Check out Victoria from VMac+Cheese‘s take here, here, here and here

APARTMENT HUNTING 101 – FROM A DALLAS TO NYC PERSPECTIVE

Now it would be irresponsible for me to caveat that Dallas sets innumerable expectations for apartment hunting. (as evidenced by the picture on the right.) 880+ sq ft. all to myself, with a pool, granite counter tops and a Jacuzzi sized tub are just the additional amenities you find beyond the general trolling of appliances. Yep, I have a dishwasher, W/D and a walk in closet I may need to have a formal break-up conversation with. Now the parting and finding of all this in NYC is alone is the subject of about 10 blog posts but I will spare you the major gripes. But whats a snarky blog without a few stories…

On Hunting:

1. Adjust your expectations - It’s a known fact that you will get less than half of what you really think when you’re looking in NYC. Well, “you don’t know half” until you actually step inside. (i.e. Airplane size bathrooms, a “closet” aka cupboard – the only “walk-in” NYC living understands in the city is the 24 hour Duane Reade.

2. A dishwasher is a luxury - Get your scrub brushes ready or start to believe in the power of Chinet!

***I saw only about 3 out of almost 20+ apartments with a dishwasher. A lot of the renovated units have them but what they had in a gorgeous kitchen you were to sleep in a shoebox of a room.

3. When a bedroom says it can fit a queen size bed – That’s ALL it can fit. No joke – maybe a foot on each side…

***The average size of the bedroom – the party line of 10′ 7″. I could argue my closet in Dallas is about this size – open your bedroom door (that is if you can) and dive into bed. I hope you like mounting stuff on the walls…

4. Converted/Flex its the same - It means that there is really only one bedroom – you hear “True” two those are words of magic!

***Listings say 2 bedroom – what they mean is a bedroom and a bumpout or a nook and a bedroom. Or a place you could throw and AeroBed and hang a white sheet from the ceiling. Let’s just say the descriptions are inventive. and every single place is a “MUST SEE!”

5. What are your non-negotiables - So we came up with a list that has our “3 must haves/4 would be niceses/3 would be luxuries. Out of that I got 4 on my list of 10.

***1. My own bedroom – (i.e. no flexies) 2. not on the first floor (no peeping Tom’s allowed) and 3. on the island of Manhattan south of 90th and north of Chinatown. – ALL hard lines. Then the plus – a doorman!

**the somewhat goal above**

I think a best of the worst is another post – trust me there were some good ones. So that is just the tip of the Iceberg. I am headed back to the big bad apple tomorrow AM to hopefully finish paperwork to move into our new apt. From door to door with a moving truck hopefully soon. Just two short weeks till the big move. Driving with Mom across country – that will be a blog post waiting to happen. She’s a pretty funny lady!

See you next week!

Leave a comment | Posted in The Industry

The Bachelorette Ep. 2 A Whole Lot of Crazy –

Posted on June 10, 2013 by Lauren

So I actually took two days to write this post. One, because I need sleep and being up till 4AM, 3AM and then 3AM again took its toll on me today. UGH! And two – these recaps will keep you up late! But this was the most packed episode I have ever seen – Two group dates, a one-on-one, a psycho ex/current girlfriend, Ben drama, and Brandon sobbing – sheesh!

But besides the fact that here I am after two glasses of wine and the aftermath of the “Bachelorette Sh*tstorm” that just took place I’ve heard a lot of chatter and information about what is going down with Dear Brian and his “playboy playmate – woe is me girlfriend-person…” so I will get to that later…

But for now let’s start out from the top shall we?

Group Date No. 1: Red and Blue Balls –

So we start off with Chris Harrison’s “week brief” in one of his stylin’ new shirts, we find out that the first date is all about soft balls and short shorts as the men are divvied up for a game of good old fashion dodge ball. In any game of dodge ball there are several in the cast of characters – the meathead, the golden boy with the winning throw the geek that gets actually hurt and the one that gets picked last. So as the blue and red teams faced off in what looks like a grown up episode of Recess the break down goes – Red team beats blue team and Mike T. screams like the meat head. Then Blue team beats red team and Drew makes the golden boy throw. Then the last are one in the same Brooks and his finger take one for the team as he tumbles to the grass in pain. Then passes out when they try and reset his finger – yep so that’s ambulance worthy. Or as my gym teacher in high school would say “WALK IT OFF!”

So after all of that he lays in the hospital and Des’ grabs a few guys and a cocktail. But what’s a cocktail party without some more baby mama drama? In the shadows Brad, comes clean about his 3-year-old son Maddox. Apparently his baby mama likes the bottle and is out of the picture. Now the thing about this guy is that I appreciate his honesty and his delivery was genuine – but even with that is he going to stick around? Meh! So Michael swoops in talks about himself and then the best part – Chris makes a killer MOVE! Probably the coolest view – Chris takes Des to the Helipad – now if Kalon was here, they would have taken off in flight but nah, Chris is there for the “right reasons” (drink! – Side note I played the Bachelorette drinking game – not as exciting as I hoped). But if that wasn’t a knight-move enough – here comes Brooks with his “broken finger” utters the line “Okay kiss me!” and steals the show! Damn Vicotin did that boy GOOOOOD! But nonetheless – knight-moves Chris gets the rose and concert by someone we don’t know! (ABC what happened to TRAIN!)

P.S. Take note- we got some serious contests after this date – Brooks and Chris, I’ll be watching out for you!

The Drama of Bryan and the Chihuahua –

The section’s title has a nice ring to it don’t you think? Well in any case I had to check the channel because when we came back I swear I stepped into a Jerry Springer episode with a really nice house in the background. Now I am not going to give too much background but what I can say is – Brian may seem like the asshole but Miss Stephanie is no saint. This chick has A LOT of skeletons in her past! It’s public knowledge that she is a playboy playmate and when she questions Brian as a role model to her son I wanted to literally hand her a mirror! So as Chris Harrison enters the house – bringing Stephanie back to meet Brian what could have been a classy conversation literally left the Chihuahua breathless as she scolded the suitor. Titles thrown around, “are we together/not together” whatever the hell was going on this battle of the pink apparel was literally showing a sign of Jerry Springer meets Real Housewives. So though she may have taken a wrong turn on her way to the bunny mansion – Stephanie had it out with an equally implicated Brian. The verdict? Des knew this house had no place for either of them. Check ya later kids – “Pauly” (who also escorted out Rozlyn Papas on Jakes season after she had “relations” with a producer) kicked them both out. Why do I feel like this isn’t the first time she or he has been asked to leave/kicked-out…Collateral and unnecessary damage… Ew, just ew!

Oh ya and Brandon shoulder’s the problem himself and decides to sob! AWKWARD!

#TheHashtagGuy #GetsADate (#PostChihuahua) –

So leave it to Des, after the drama to get a botched date with whom I think is one of the most fabulous guys of the season! Leaving the house, #HashtagGuy Kasey Stewart and Des take to the side of the Andaz hotel in West Hollywood for a little fun in the air. While trapeezing off the side of the building, she gets an ab work out and he arguably gets a hernia. Fast forward to some one-on-one time and the Santa Ana’s create gale force winds, even more annoying. Then top it all off with a rose pinning in a stairwell – ya I would agree Des, for a guy this great – you need a do-over, and he deserves it! Kasey took all of the bad frames of mind, botched activity and storms in stride remaining humble and positive. This is one cool cat that I am starting to adore! You’re a class act Kasey! You absolutely deserve that rose – and a do-over.

Group Date No. 2 Backyard Buckaroos –

Now literally after all that has happened in this episode I honestly didn’t think that this could get any more convoluted – well I’m clearly daft! Exec. Producer Mike Fleiss I have to hand it to you – this is one CRAZY night! So sure – why wouldn’t a stunt day at a fake Texas ghostown fit in? Everything but the kitchen sink right?

So Zak W., James, Juan Pablo, Dan and Bryden learn a couple moves, rope a few fake cows and play with pink lassos as they try to come up with the best fighting sequence to win Des’ “southern heart.” So here they go one by one:

James – Uses his Chicago fist pumpin’ charm to capture her heart. The line “Baby, you know I won’t let anyone hurt you!” (LAME!)

Bryden – A few punches. The line “You’ve got a date with the sunset.” (LAME!)

Zak W. – Gets in touch with his Texas roots. (SNOOZER!)

Dan – Split his PANTS! (MASTERFUL!)

Juan Pablo – Spoke a hell of a lot of Spanish and then whispered in her ear – (SEALS THE DEAL!)

So as Juan Pablo brings out his Latin lover side – the two find themselves in a barn with a screening of Disney’s new movie – The Lone Ranger. Popcorn feeding leads to making out which leads to more making out and a lot of Spanish sweet nothings in her ear! Aye Carumba! Rose worthy! But though the latin lover didn’t a rose –it clearly got the others boxer briefs in a wad – James in particular who was all over Des like white on rice. But the real blooming flower here was Bryden – a little pomade to side swipe those bangs going in for the kiss. Who new?! Maybe there is something to this overabundance of hair gel thing! Side note – James’ one on one scores the rose.

The Rose Ceremony –

Sure. Now after I’m already exhausted let’s throw in some rose ceremony drama! Ben starts stirring the pot again – he says “this is the bachelorette, not an episode of friends” so he isn’t here to make any. When are they going to get it! You see her for a few hours a week! You’re telling me you want to hide in a room to keep your sanity? Okay…

But then there is Brandon – You’re like the girl from mean girls you just want “ponies and rainbows!” Truly a Kasey Kahl repeat and obsessed with love. But after all of that you got the axe, sorry buddy! Don’t worry she’s out there and I hope she is just as obsessed with love as you are.

Tonight’s casualties – Brian (duh!) Dan and Brandon who I am pretty sure had a psychologist in his limo with him upon departure.

oh ya and p.s. somehow a hot tub party made it in there with 20 guys and one girl….

Till next week – I’m EXHAUSTED!

Leave a comment | Posted in ABC's The Bachelorette, Bachelorette Desiree 2013, The Bachelorette 2013

PR POV: Summer Internship Takeover -

Posted on June 7, 2013 by Lauren

don’t be this intern – but if you are going for a SBUX run – I take mine, strong!

This week we have a new crop of “babies” starting at the agency embarking on their PR Industry journey. I can’t tell you how much our office changes and welcomes the new and young blood. When interns aren’t around I think we feel the full weight of our clients ball and chain and junior staffers instead of being able to push forward to expand strategic planning skills are brought back down to earth taking care of media lists and reporter backgrounders. (Arguably some of the most important and bible-like documents!)

So congrats you made it through the door! But though we have tons of great work to be done and can’t wait to sink our teeth into our new talent, what you get out of your internship is ultimately up to you! So what can you do to get started? Well consider these to help shape your experience and add to your resume…

Build your online presence – Looking to discover the digital space? Well as clients move forward bringing more of the conversation and experience of their brand online – you should do the same! Think of yourself as a brand. What is going to make you marketable as a potential new hire?

Do This: Take a look at your Facebook page, Twitter Feed, Pinterest Boards, Instagram and figure out if what you are posting is going to make you “marketable.” Don’t take down pictures and give yourself a digital makeover – we like to see the evolution! (Okay, maybe take down the ‘keg-stand’ photo from last spring’s frat party….). PR Pro’s want to see that you are evolving, so use your time in your internship to learn from the other junior staffers that are around you. How do they portray themselves in the digital space?

Create a List of Dailies – Part of what we do as PR Pro’s is A LOT of listening. Social listening, industries listening and trust me with a lot to read and sometimes “not so much time” good readers like Feedly and Twitter aggregators like TweetDeck or Hootsuite become great tools. So source the crowd figure out what some of the most seasoned pros are using.

Do This: To be a self-starter so you can begin and learn at the same time – download one of the following: Hootsuite, Tweetdeck or Bottlenose an import your twitter account – don’t have one? Start one! Even if you don’t tweet (Which I think is a crime!) you can still be a consumer of news for both the industry and in general. Do you know news sometimes breaks faster on Twitter than it does webpages?

If you’re a PR Pro consider following these to start you off:

@ PRDaily @DKNY @PR_Couture @Mark Ragan @LizzieGrubman @LuxuryPRGal @PublicityGuru @prsarahevans @peoplesrev @SocialMedia411 @Steveology @mattsingley @wearesocial @ThePRWoman @PRDivaBlog @ThePRCloset @NYCPRGirls and of course – your’s truly – PRBlonde (@LaurenAPruner)

Start Building relationships – Are there happy hours that are organized in your office, events you can go to or just people you can have lunch with? Well you won’t know until you find out! Start listening! Are there people in the office that are a little more approachable? E-mail them – let them know you want o have lunch with them, find a time that works and just talk about life! We’re people and we thrive on relationships – so does this business! If there is a function that you can attend go! Even if your internship doesn’t land as a job – most PR Pros have a killer contact list that you can benefit from.

Do This: Don’t be just a worker bee! There was something that we saw in you when we interviewed you. Use those personality traits to your advantage. As you build your social networks – interact with those that you are following. See a great article from Ragan’s? Tweet Ragans back! If you are in the office – and want to know your co-workers road to her PRowess? Shoot her a note:

Hi XXX,

I have been meaning to sit and talk with you and would love to chat with you about how you found such a great career in PR. Would you have any time to go to lunch next week?

Thanks,

(Your Name Here)

Hint: PR Pro’s love talking about their journey and if you give them a week to plan they will appreciate it even more! And speaking of PR Journey’s and how to “go after it all”…

pr-blonde

Want to know how I do it? Check out my conversation I had over on “That Working Girl” today! These girls are kicking some serious PR well, you know what I mean. AND – they have a killer blog to boot!

Visit: http://thatworkinggirl.wordpress.com/

Follow them at: @HeyWorkingGirl

and of course if you have any PR Questions – E-mail me at PRBlondeBlog@gmail.com!

Leave a comment | Posted in The Industry

The Bachelorette Ep. 2: Daddy Issues and all the right reasons –

Posted on June 3, 2013 by Lauren

We’re back it’s week two and instead of using my typical chopping dead weight excuse for Week 2 – it’s more like deciding which of the boy band members are going home. The gel used in this house is as much as AJ, Howie and Nick from the Backstreet boys stocked in their lifetime supply and apparently there was a little left over for Chris Harrison too. My my Chris I must say that your “casual wear” looks very nice on you… I wonder who made such fine flannel?

As the date cards arrive boys anxiously gather in sweatpants only to find out Mr. Hair himself, Brooks was first to take the plunge. As Des’ pulled up in her powder blue Barbie Bentley (Let’s be honest – if she was blonde this would be a pink car!) Brook’s asks if he’s going to get the chance to drive… With your hair behind a powder blue Bentley, Brooks your driving skills wouldn’t be the only thing up for questions. So sure let’s fast forward from date 1 to a bridal shop – yep because that is every guys first date fantasy, to put on a tux see you in a wedding dress and realize shit – I may be getting married! But this is the Bachelorette so it’s just par for the course.

After tasting wedding cakes in their attire at a food truck with a bajillion screaming fans around (aka. what it would be like to marry Beiber, wedding cake with a side of ear piercing adolescent screams) Des has another surprise – just a recycled date idea from Bachelor Pad 3 – dinner on a bridge. Only what ended for Kalon and Lindzi was actually followed by a concert from Andy Grammer, who I am pretty sure is a one hit wonder. Didn’t we have Train a few seasons ago? What happened budget cuts? Nonetheless we hear Brook’s Daddy issues story, match that with Des’ tent life and we can already see an emerging front runner. If this guy didn’t have the hottest stock broker slick back ever I would say – meh! But he gets a rose and the first kiss of the season. Way to B – B!

Back at the house – tank tops are getting tighter and boys are getting “ancy” waiting to see who’s going to take part in what was arguably the worst group date idea since Turkish Olive Oil wrestling. But this required a lot lets oil and a lot more “white boy swagger.” Soulja Boy – “up in it oh!” comes out ready to teach these boys how to rap. I have to say it’s a pretty interesting date – add some jabs at past crazies with nods to Wes Hayden, Kasey Kahl and more – you’ve got a great idea for a “non-viral” video. Like fellow Bachelor Nation Members said – please make its stop!

So after all the rhyming ended like a bad mother goose story, the cocktail party began. Add some alchy to that date and the crazy starts coming out. One in particular, dear sweet Brandon isn’t getting time with our Cinderella, so what does he do – sits on the rock wall and cries. All he wants to do is, hold her, love her, squeeze her, and TRY A LITTLE TENDERNESS, Kasey Kahl style. But at least Kasey Kahl always wore pants… Nonetheless Brandon is “there for the right reasons” just like Kasey who wanted to “Guard and Protect Ali’s heart” I swear if this guy gets a tattoo – I’m going to take serious bets on body placement!

But alas, Ben swoops in gets the rose, a tongued kiss and though he may not be there for the right reasons – Brandon, ‘Right Reasons Police’ is keeping his eye on him.

Like a pony with his tricks! Oh Benny Bear….

Last but certainly not least is Bryden. Our war hero, now this satirical date paragraph may be short since to criticize a war hero with a terrible post military hair cut may just make me anti-American. But nonetheless the two take off in her now “used” powder blue Bentley for a Cali roadtrip. First off is the 7 eleven for some needed bugles and DC’s. Second, the beach for some fun in the sand with a flip cam. Next, orange orchards where they peg each other like butch softball players then Ojai for the only non-Griswold-esque portion of the night period. I was literally waiting for Grandma to be strapped to the roof!

So our Cinderella and War hero snuggle up to a candlelit dinner where not only does Bryden reveal why he joined the Army, (‘Murica!) but also that he was inches from his life in a terrible car accident, and as if that isn’t depressing enough, he brought the pictures to go with his wonderful story. I’m not sure how I feel about that… HUGE buzzkill, but clearly a visual of his Sean Lowe rivaling abs brought her right back with one of the best lines in Bachelorette history, “Just kiss me already!” They’re in the hot tub, he gets a rose and she gets a kiss – DONE!

But what would a good 20 minutes left be without a little rose ceremony drama? There’s arguably enough in this house to rival the whiney croons of Sean Lowe’s season. Now all we need is a Tierra-esque, eyebrow slash hissy fit and you have a MUST WATCH show. Des shows up looking like “poison Ivy” from Batman and her villain karma is clearly biting the night in the A**. We hear about Diabetes, Divorces and Diarrhea (UGH! Never okay!) All pre-rose ceremony and each lovely conversation gets spoiled by Mr. Secrets himself – Benny Bear. Dude guy code, you have a rose, sit your butt down or the meatheads will chase you…

But in the end Des sent home –

Will, the only “diverse” guy….
Robert – because he dated her friend (It’s true – she said it herself!)
Nick – Well let’s be real, just a casualty

Till next week! And trust me – its going to be a doozie – I would keep my eyes on Life and Style Mag – I think a good friend of mine is going to shed some SERIOUS light on next episode. JUICY JUICY!

P.S. #HashtagGuy #Youarethegreatest #SeewhatIdidthere #PSThisisFORYOU

P.P.S. Chris Harrison – you look dashing as always, one day we’ll meet in the twitter-verse!

Here’s your Bachelorette Tracker for this season. The perfect way to keep track of who stays and who goes Desiree_Season 17_Bachelorette_Tracker (click to download and print!)

Leave a comment | Posted in Bachelorette Desiree 2013, The Bachelorette 2013

PRBrunette: California Dreamin’

Posted on May 29, 2013 by BaileyNeal

All the swag’s been given, the recaps have been written and it’s been a little over a month since our favorite blonde jet-set to the Left Coast for a long weekend in fashion blogger nirvana… making it about the same length of time that this dark-haired counterpart has been super jealous of PRB’s FABBulous vacay!

I’m only halfway kidding. Of course I was more than excited to catch up on all of the Lucky action through the eyes of our favorite bloggers, but I am in a perpetual state of California Dreaming, and during no time more than springtime in Texas. You’ve heard about the April showers bringing the May flowers… Throw a drought somewhere in that mix, a few dashes of a cold front, a touch of a dust storm and some severe high winds, and you might have a more accurate portrait of how emotional our regional Mother Nature can be. Did I mention that this isn’t a pattern necessarily restricted to one season? I was actually referencing real life changes that all occurred in just this past week.

So the temperature consistency of southern California calls to me, like a siren in the night. Seeming both so close and so, so far away, the Golden State’s offerings of moderately warm days and mildly cool nights constantly taunt me and my runny nose. Do people in California even have seasonal allergies? A few things, though, are able to aid me in taking a vacation of the mind.

None of this is to say I don’t love my home. As a born-and-raised Texan, I can’t just like anything about the best state in the union… We love it all and we certainly love to brag about its brilliance to everyone we know. Even when I get the opportunity to temporarily leave and explore someplace new, certain products and trends will always remind me of The Big D and draw me back.

| Kenneth Cole New York short sleeve pocket v-neck tee| Peter Pilotto ‘Stamp’ print sleeveless dress | Alexander McQueen lace ruffle dress | Ralph Lauren cable knit cardigan | Kendra Scott ‘Danielle’ oval statement earrings in turquoise | Tory Burch flower leather headband | Acne ‘The Pistol’ brushed leather ankle boots | Banana Republic pearl twist necklace | TIGI Bead Head ‘Masterpiece’ massive shine hairspray | Essie resort collection ‘No More Film’ nail polish | Hidden Valley original ranch dressing |

Wherever you are, take a minute today and take a walk to somewhere you love on a vacation in your mind. From Sunset Boulevard to Harry Hines, dream on, dreamers.

BACHELORETTE Ep. 1: The First Impressions –

Posted on May 29, 2013 by Lauren

Desiree Hartsock’s season is underway and I have to say hats off Mike Fleiss! This is probably the best crop of men I have seen since Ali Fedotowsky’s season and with all the fisticuffs and hair gel we are clearly classin’ it up this season. Despite the fact that the ground work was clear – Des is CINDERELLA (newsflash if you didn’t pick up on that as she goes from a civic “Pumpkin” to her powder blue Bentley. AKA horse drawn carriage”) we we’re introduced to 25 boys/men ready to dress up, fish for pennies, rip her dress and set things on fire for a “rose-worthy” first impression.

We were reminded of Des’ tearful goodbye, her tent living and how traveling with her Le Sport Sac to her Agoura Hills Mansion was like moving into a palace. So if they are going to stick with this Cinderella Theme all season – does that make Chris Harrison a much better less rounder fairy God Mother – aka. Godfather? Bibbity-Bobbity, LIMO Time!

Limo Exits and First Impressions:

So as the Limo’s pulled up to the yes, hosed down driveway – here are the “princes” in order of appearance: (***NOTE: If you all are wanting to keep track of this season download my hand dandy Bachelorette Tracker – available at the bottom of this post.***)

Drew-8 Drew – This Zach Morris Lookalike played it straight getting out of the limo. The dude knows how to rock a pocket square and is one hell of a bear hugger.

Brooks-5 Brooks – Running your mouth and using improperly formed sentences earned your way into one of the geekiest and adorable entries – I’m going to keep my eye on you!

Brad-2 Brad – Brad pulled out a wishbone, he also told her “she won” like a five year old that “WON” the gun squirting contest at the fair. You seem less than enthused my dear. Try a white shirt with your pinstriped suit next time.

Bryden-6 Bryden – Again… You’re an American hero – so I would be the Bachelorette-Bin Laden if I hated on you right? You played it smooth, but clearly rejected my advice to get rid of the bowl cut before you went on national television.

Michael- 15 Michael G. – Came in for the hug with airplane wings and then got his sleeves wet to find Des’ penny in a VERY DEEP (and probably cleaned out) Fountain. He also has animated eye-brows. Who knew Tierra’s eyebrows were possibly contagious…

Kasey-12 Kasey – Kasey Stewart! #WHEREHAVEYOUBEENALLMYLIFE. So despite the fact that I think we are a match in social media heaven and Des’ well still draws without a stylus… You get plenty of “likes, favorites, hearts” from me. #MarriageMaterial à improved, #MYMarriageMaterial

Will-22 Will – Goes creepy old school and pulls out of his 6th grade textbook that Des’ is like Athena. Does he have the description written on the inside of his wrist too? Total odd ball move… He also does Bikram Yoga and hands out high fives on street corners. #Enoughsaid (see what I did there Kasey???)

Mikey T-18

Mikey T. – Anyone over the age of 13 that calls himself Mikey worries me. I think he’s going to give you a ring pop by the tire swing at the end of this instead of the Neil Lane sparkler. He won’t even need Neil he will just ask Nanu at the local 7Eleven. He’s also still wearing the same tight shirts from seventh grade… I would have paid money to see him rip a sleeve.

Jonathan-10 Jonathan – Why do I feel like Jonathan’s First Tinder message would be really creepy? Like “You would look good in my bed?” Why do I also feel like that room key he attempted to give Des is to a Motel 6 or a Super 8. Why do I also feel like there would be a corner hidden in stack of books in the room…this smells like Ray J. and Kim…

Zak-24 Zak W. – Zak may I borrow your abs? I would like to wash my clothes on them tomorrow. If you got it man – just maybe think about clothing yourself for the rose ceremony.

James-9 James – YOU are a meathead. I hope it’s you and Mikey T. in the ring playing fisticuff’s – I’ll literally start taking bets on Twitter.

Larry-13 Larry – Telling her to spin faster than trying to rip her out of her dress?!? I know you rip clothes off of people in the ER but this is the bachelor mansion… Don’t be weird dude. Oh and I know I said you look better with your glasses on, ya I take that back – glasses off, believe in the power of Lasik.

Nick R - 20 Nick R. – Magic CREEEEEPPS me out! Shoving a rose up your sleeve creeps me out more!

Zack K-23 Zack K. – Great call on the tuxedo – BUT SNEAKERS! Really! You were down to the last drop! All or nothing bud.

Diogo Diogo – You’re walking in a knight suit like you have a HUGE jousting stick up your ass! Ewww and your sweaty… Sweaty knights are weird – and according to Jonathan, “waxing your eyebrows” isn’t cool either.

Chris-7 Chris – SO CLEVER! “Can I tie my shoe?” This was one of the cutest and adorable first impressions I have seen in many seasons. Any guy that can admit he has butterflies right off the bat – #MELTWORTHY (Again – Kasey, see that?!)

Mike-16 Mike R. – You have a big nose. That’s all since you’re gone after tonight… Also you’re McDreamy act, he’s a brain surgeon. You are a dental STUDENT.

Robert-21 Robert – To the Erik Von Detten look-alike, you are adorable. Your dog is adorable, your life is adorable – your first impression – confident and adorable! That and your MEGAWATT smile. I’m going to keep my eye on you.

Juan Pablo-11 Juan Pablo – Who-aan Pablo. A Spanish lesson a little chocolate and some feet he can do tricks with.

Brandon-3 Brandon – Brandon rolls up on a bike and claims the crotch rocket is not a “two-seater.” But digging the tie!

Brian-4 Brian – A velour jacket SCREAMS playboy – you are totally the Hugh Hefner of the house. We will see if you get caught red handed.

Micah-14 Micah – Your pre-school stiched suit scared Des. Text on the back of your jacket looked like my quilt from 2nd grade Home-Ec.

Nick - 19 Nick M. – Poems. Rhyming proves that you are A. not a rapper and B. not the next E.E. Cummings.

Dan-25 Dan – You are a dead ringer for Jeff Probst! Shouldn’t you be wrangling Anacondas in the outback with a bunch of emaciated people right now???

Ben-1 Ben – The crème de la crème of all entrances. Using the kid/puppy bait was the most adorable thing! #Classic (Kasey…notice…). Best lines from Brodie during his 30 seconds of fame –

“Did I do everything?” (meltworthy)
“I wish I could go to the party!” (Me too buddy, me too!)
“It would be so much fun with Dad!” (UNREAL!)

The Cocktail Party:

So like moths to a flame Des enters the room and all eyes turn to her. Not to be interrupted however by a weird yet smooth interjection from the magician who noted he was going to “disappear with Des.” Let me tell you I don’t know if I am a sucker for cheap wit, but these guys have a few good lines up their sleeve.

As the first rose gets handed out to Ben for his son “Brodie’s Emmy worthy cuteness” we launch into full scale competition mode and we start to see the crazy come out. Brandon is thinking he’s already in love, Mikey T. gets confused for a New York guido and Jonathan creeps the SH*T out of her asking “Why ever not would she want to go to the fantasy suite with him literally minutes after they meet.” Jonathan, why do I feel like you are straight out of MTV’s BUCKWILD? Save the 30-second chat and bang out Motel 6 style for the Hickory, NC girls.

Swoon-worthy chats include:

1. Brandon’s adorable story about flipping a coin and attending his birthday or the Bachelorette Interview.

2. Brook’s certainty that he and Des would not only make great BESTIES but lovers too…

3. Ben’s family background chat – all leading back to their common ground, sharing time in a tent.

4. Kasey hashtaging #shrinkage after Zak W. jumps in the freezing cold pool. (still no shirt)

5. Bryden’s puppy love conversation. Absolutely rose worthy!

But alas the most badass rosemaster, arguably the chuck Norris of roses, Chris Harrison enters the room and clink his glass. After deliberation Des axes – Micah, Diogo (knight in shining/sweaty armour), Mike R., Nick R. (magic guy), Larry and sent home earlier in the night for his sheer creepiness, Jonathan!

Well we are off to a great start kids – Till next week! Remember to follow me on Twitter – I’ll be live tweeting every episode - @LaurenAPruner!

P.S. Nothing like being the inaugural tweet of the season! —>

P.P.S Here’s your Bachelorette Tracker for this season. The perfect way to keep track of who stays and who goes Desiree_Season 17_Bachelorette_Tracker (click to download and print!)

P.P.P.S. Chris Harrison glad you’re back. I’ve missed you.

Leave a comment | Posted in Bachelorette Desiree 2013, The Bachelorette 2013

In A New York Minute –

Posted on May 27, 2013 by Lauren

It’s time to pay the blog some attention. I hope after last week you don’t feel too neglected, but the delay was due to one valuable and “busy” learning experience. New York City was a new kind of experience last week. For the first time I have looked through the lens of a NYC’er/residents eyes riding the subway instead of cabs venturing beyond the confines of midtown. I have been here a week and I am not even a resident yet and this concrete jungle is already teaching me some very serious and valuable lessons. Though I am literally exhausted I thought I would share a few:

1. A New York minute is real - In one day last week I managed to find two roommates lose one find and apartment lose one, get a full day of work in, commute to the ‘rents in the ‘burbs and solve a few other smaller not so life altering crises both personally and professionally. A lot can happen here in one day, life just seems to move a little faster and it wasn’t until now that I realized how much Texas had me at a little more of a leisurely speed. Even at a client lunch in peak “lunch rush hour” (in Rockefeller Center no less – tourist central) we got a table in less than 5 minutes and our food only a couple minutes after that. So after this week, I’m a firm believer. The reason why this place is making such moves is because they can do it all in a New York minute.

2. Apartment Hunting Sucks - It’s hard to come to this city with an open mind about how you’re going to live. Let’s just say Dallas living can’t even compare. Learning the marketplace, hunting all over Manhattan – which takes hours even a full day, will leave you drained. Emotionally you’re adjusting, physically your sweating (no thanks to the terrible humidity this past week!) and mentally you’re trying to match the number filled street address with a feeling or a bedroom layout. On top of all that your managing roommate expectations as well. For me that’s been a challenge – I haven’t has a roommate in over 3 years and I have had to be the most proactive of all parties since I still have to go back to Dallas for a hot second. So alas my search continues – pray to the apartment gods that I find one.

3. New York is like a Candy Store - When your walking from the train to the office you find yourself looking in every window, smelling everything (good and bad) and wanting to try out all that appeals to you. You constantly feel like there is never going to be enough time. Well one week clearly isn’t for me but it makes me want to get back here that much sooner so I can start to experience and be a part of all it has to offer.

So though I would love to say that I have been relaxing and taking a blog break this week, the truth is I have been cheating on the blog with New York, let’s just hope this PRBlonde blog and arguably fiery redhead NYC aren’t at odds when I get here. If so, that will be one interesting cat fight!

Bachelor Nation gets reignited tonight! See you on the “Tweeter” starting at 8/7c on ABC!

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