The Chicago Journal

Your Gateway to the Heartbeat of Chicago

Gozde Balli: Santa Barbara home cooking expert’s journey via social media

Social media has opened doors to the lives of many people around the world, and we get to witness what they do in their lives. Whether it is dining out, vacationing, cooking at home or how they raise their kids, we all enjoy following some interesting individuals who are making life easier and entertaining people across the world through their reels and stories. These people are aptly called social media influencers. There are many types of influencers – from health to lifestyle to parenting and beauty; you name it, and there is an influencer who can make things more convenient for you. 

Gozde Balli is a home cooking expert, social media influencer and an entrepreneur. Born and raised in Adana, the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, Gozde Balli moved to California after marrying her husband, Emre. Initially, it seemed challenging to move thousands of miles away from family and friends, but with the support of her husband, she took the plunge and started her life in Santa Barbara, California. 

Talking about her experience as an influencer, she says, “I love being an influencer, especially in California. That’s why I have added California at the end of my social media username as well. I simply love living and exploring the city. There are so many things to see, visit different places and tons of people to meet.”

She further went on to say, “You can drive on PCH up north to see gorgeous Big Sur or back south to watch sunsets in Malibu and Santa Monica. Wineries over Santa Ynez, bike rides under the Palm Trees, there is so much that makes this city and country beautiful. There are so many different restaurants I can visit and share them with my followers, so they know what to choose from the next time they dine out.”

Gozde Balli did not attend any culinary institute and is a self-taught cook. As a kid, she used to help her mother in the kitchen, and that’s where she developed an interest in grilling lamb kebabs, chops, and sea bass, creating delicious salads with arugula and mixed greens, etc. She is very picky when it comes to food and drinks and carefully picks meat, organic produce and other ingredients when she is cooking at home, ensuring the best possible taste. Her kitchen is always spotless, and while she cooks, she sets her table with candles, shiny glasses and perfectly matching napkins and silverware to give everyone a feel of a restaurant at home. 

It was because of her attention to detail and her delicious, innovative cooking that she decided to start her own restaurant, Empty Bowl – Gourmet Noodle Bar. As the name suggests, they provide Thai comfort food, mostly noodles. “Staying in your comfort zone might be safe. But sometimes making a decision and going with that might completely change your life,” shares Gozde Balli. “I left my job and moved 7000 miles away from my family and friends. In the beginning, it wasn’t easy, but Santa Barbara made me feel like home away from home.”

This is also one of the reasons she started making reels and posting stories on her social media handles. She gets excited and motivated while creating content. Whether she is driving, traveling, biking, drinking champagne, attending a show, cooking or dressing, she creates content that people like. She not only posts pictures or videos but finds the perfect music to go with her reels and keeps positive energy and vibes going throughout. Gozde has more than 100K followers on Instagram who are hooked to her creativity and skills. 

Her biggest achievement is her followers. “I have over a million followers, and I show them how to dress up in every budget. There are so many people who can’t decide what to wear every day, and some of them think expensive brands are the key. But it’s not true. I can match any dress, skirt, pants, blouse, purse, or shoes for ladies to make them feel trendy and comfortable at the same time,” shares Gozde Balli. 

The home cooking expert hopes to establish her own fashion brand in the near future as that is something close to her heart after cooking and traveling. Since she is doing rounds on the first two, she is now focused on embarking on her third dream. Her social media followers have endorsed her skills as a cook and follow her for her fashion trends, which has given her the confidence to take it seriously so that she can bring fashion to women that they can carry on in a limited budget without compromising on style. 

Gozde Balli is an inspiration to people who start their lives afresh in a new country with no former contacts or resources. She built her life from scratch and encourages others to do the same; all they need is a passion for something and learning the skills to master their passion.

The Boss Briefcase Coaching Kit: A Treasure Trove Of High-Demand Training Modules And Coaching Content

If you’re like most coaches, you spend a lot of time researching what to teach and how to teach it. Then when it comes to actually creating the course content, the process becomes overwhelming and time-consuming. What if you could simplify this process with an all-in-one content kit that gives you everything you need to put together professional training courses for your clients? That’s exactly what The Boss Briefcase’s Coaches Content Kit is designed to help you accomplish.

The Boss Briefcase’s Coaching Kit provides you with all of the essential tools and materials that you need to provide high-quality training for your customers. This is what’s included in the package:

Article Library

You get access to over one hundred high-quality articles that you may use to generate material for your courses or blog entries. These articles are written by some of the most respected professionals in their fields, and they cover a broad range of themes, such as personal development, business, health, and fitness.

Complete Course Kits

Over 30 comprehensive course packages covering a broad range of topics, such as health and fitness, business, wellness, entrepreneurship, digital marketing, social media, and personal development, amongst others. Each kit provides a selection of digital information that can be simply incorporated into your own personalized training programs.

Social Media Content

What if you get all the work done, but you still aren’t generating leads for your business? One of the biggest mistakes that coaches make is not using social media to attract potential clients. The Boss Briefcase’s coaching kit contains months’ worth of social media material, in the form of predesigned templates that can be used and posted on different social media platforms.

High-Ticket Authority Guide & Checklist

Step-by-step instructions will be provided to assist you in choosing your most lucrative offering and packaging it into a lucrative online course. With the included packaging and sales copy, make your first online course quick and easy.

Exclusive Facebook & Google Ads Masterclass

Learn how to promote yourself more successfully on Facebook and Google Ads with the help of The Boss Briefcase’s social media masterclass, and move from being a beginner to a pro in no time. It will provide you with all of the information that you need to construct a successful advertising campaign on Facebook and Google ads to generate more leads for your coaching company.

Brandable Templates For Course Workbooks

Workbooks that have been completed for you that you may use as a model for creating your own workbooks. These workbooks provide you with activities and checklists that you can use to establish the ideal coaching practice that you’ve always wanted. You just need to upload your company’s logo, and then you’re good to go.

The Boss Briefcase’s Coaches Content Kit is an excellent resource for business and success coaches, life and wellness coaches, and health and fitness coaches. Your coaching company will reach new heights you never thought possible, regardless of whether you’re a seasoned coach or a complete newbie.

Here’s How This Entrepreneur hits multiple six figures in less than six months – Devin Parks

It’s not common to meet an entrepreneur who grew his business to 6-figures in just a matter of six months. Those familiar with the dynamics of the business world understand how hard it is to survive the initial stages of a business, as in times like these, sales are usually low, and expenditures are constant. But some extraordinary people like Devin Parks can find the loophole in the matrix, and with their hard work and exceptional talent, they can do wonders. A born business king Devin Parks is the genius behind developing multiple 6-figure businesses in less than a year.

Born and raised in Charlotte, NC, this 25-year-old entrepreneur moved to Florida to start his career. Devin knew he was born for greatness and wanted to excel in the world of business. His prayers were answered when his friend and business partner came forward with the incredible idea of developing a solar panel company. Being able to learn the tricks of credit score, he was able to raise capital for his start-up. According to him, the world is really struggling right now due to the environmental crisis, and hence, he wanted to start a business that was not just futuristic but also positively contributed to global warming. 

Back then, Devin was working as an employee and was dreaming of an opportunity to knock on his door. Things took a turn for the best, and he left his job and started his adventure with Robert Eason. And six months later, their company GOSO Technologies, began making waves in the business world. It didn’t take long for Devin and Rob to create a state-of-the-art solar panel brand that works on the latest technology to provide its clients with outstanding service. Their incredible team of experts caters to everyone – from domestic houses to commercial industries. What sets their company apart from the rest is that they quote the best prices, which helps save money in the long run. Moreover, GOSO Technologies is known for making their clients independent from government electricity and oil consumption while keeping nature and the environment clean and healthier. Even though this was a great business idea, it was Devin and Rob’s hard work and determination that made it reach the heights of success.

Highlighting the secret behind his accomplishments, Devin shares, “My mantra of success is making a lot of money, helping a lot of people, having a lot of fun.” He further went on to say, “The one thing most people focus on is that I grew a 6-figure worth business in just six months. However, such people do not note the planning, hard work, team effort, and experiences I brought to the company. I encourage young people to do business but not without a plan. We must understand how important it is to do market research and analysis. Business is not for weak-hearted people, as it requires the courage to survive setbacks, which is a big part of life and business. I advise all young entrepreneurs to use their resources and keep working hard, and soon there will be nothing between them and success.”

Devin Parks is an incredible man who does not believe in pulling down others for the sake of achieving success. Realizing his talent for understanding credit scores and how beneficial they can be for an individual, especially an entrepreneur, he started his credit consultancy firm Clean Slate Consultancy. “Through my consultancy firm, I want to help people fix their credit score so they can also access funding all on credit cards. What makes us unique is that we can help someone access 15 credit cards with only five inquiries on each bureau,” states Devin. “An average American does not realize how many opportunities they miss due to bad credit scores. More than 40% of the US population has a 600 credit score or below, and the potential to help that many people is what motivated me to start my firm,” he adds.

Devin Parks’ journey is truly incredible and motivating for aspiring young entrepreneurs who want to make it big. It shows how dedication and exceptional work ethics are critical for anyone to reach for the stars. Moreover, it teaches us to explore, push our limits and take the leap of faith toward living our dream. If it wasn’t for Devin’s courage and trust in himself, he would have been stuck in the rut of the 9-5 job and wouldn’t be able to establish his own business in such a short span of time!

Unsatisfied with your Nose and want a permanent quick fix, True Nose is here to help you

One of the most common facial plastic surgery treatments is rhinoplasty, commonly known as a nose job or nose surgery. Treating breathing concerns and irregular nasal shape, size, and symmetry can help with cosmetic and functional issues you might face with your Nose. Rhinoplasty has dangers and benefits, just like other surgical surgery. Nose jobs can be done to change how you look or for medical reasons. For example, some people may need surgery to repair a problem with the cartilage that divides one nostril from the other. Others may want to make their noses smaller or change their shape. It serves all purposes. Feeling unsatisfied with your nose and feeling uncomfortable with its shape can cause a loss of confidence. To make the most significant choice for your needs, “True Nose” (TrueNose.com) wants to ensure you are entirely informed about all facets of the rhinoplasty effects as they have brought a new and better solution.

 

A perfect nose does not exist, so keep that in mind. However, surgery can highlight facial traits and draw attention to your distinctive and natural beauty. A plastic surgeon can explain the distinctive facial characteristics that make you unique and how changing them will improve your appearance. With the advanced facial fillers, True Nose can show you the possible results after the surgery. The surgeon will examine your nose and other facial features, and they can inform you if your expectations are reasonable after this assessment. If you choose a complete nose surgery, the surgeon should review the dangers, length of recovery, and cost with you and consider your general health. Because of its seriousness, such surgery can be risky as it needs to be precise and carefully executed. One wrong cut can scar someone for life. The Nose can be reshaped using a variety of methods. Your surgeon should outline their proposed course of action in detail once you decide to move forward. 

 

One of the reasons people tend to step into a surgeon’s room is the issue of breaking through the nose. Irregularity and accidents can cause blocked on-air nostrils. Nasal obstruction can interfere with other activities and sleep, make it difficult to exercise, and contribute to snoring and sleep apnea. Surgery might be the following action if medical interventions, such as nasal spray or sleep apnea treatment, are unsuccessful. If the patient is involved and facing some breathing issue, multiple surgeries would be performed, as the surgeon needs to reshape and open the blockage of the nostrils and remove the scars. This type of nasal surgery depends on the underlying issue. A septoplasty by itself may be able to correct a deviated septum, the midline wall of cartilage that separates the right and left sides of the Nose. A rhinoplasty is necessary to ensure adequate breathing and nasal form when a septal deviation is more severe or occurs close to essential areas of nasal support. With carefully positioned cartilage grafts, rhinoplasty (also known as septorhinoplasty) corrects the septal malformation and strengthens the nose’s vital breathing zones.

 

Going through such risky surgery can be a little challenging. Many people decide to live with a lousy nose just because of the fear of nose surgery and scars. Until now, it was understandable, but with modern science, many clinics are working on providing their patients an alternative way, such as True Nose. During your initial consultation at True Nose, the Practitioner discusses the nose surgery procedure in detail with you and addresses any questions you may have. Platforms like True Nose can help you gain more confidence at half the cost and without surgery. They provide an alternate solution to surgery, keeping the outcome and result the same. 

 

We understand your questions must be going through your head right now. In such clinics, you will be treated by a professional physician. Your therapy will be prescribed, overseen, and managed professionally. A consultant will always be at reach to explain what procedure you must go through. The best part about their method is there is 2-week rest or anything, and you can go right into your next meeting with no delay and no hideous mask. The services at facilities like True Nose are exceptional. They give full power to their patients, and if you change your mind at any point before the procedure or if our team decides you’re not an ideal candidate, your order will be 100% refunded. With the help of the advancement of science and expert aestheticians, True nose has made it easy, affordable, and satisfying for you to have a nose job.

Daniel’s Leather is not your number 1 choice, it’s your only choice

Leather products have always been a hot item for the fashion industry as they never go out of fashion and look classy as well. For decades, leather jackets and boots have been considered trendy chic. In fact, our movies and fashion shoots have constantly endorsed this phenomenon. Fast forward to the present, and various celebs, such as Kim Kardashian and Megan Fox, are spotted wearing leather dresses and looking absolutely stunning. However, like every other fabric, leather has evolved over time, and now more than ever, you will find on-trend outfits like a dress, pants, or a stylish coat. 

Different forms of leather are admired at large, but advanced technology has made it possible for leather apparel to be available in various textures and stunning colors. Goods made from leather have been considered luxury items and a must-have in both men’s and women’s wardrobes. However, it was initially believed that leather apparel would be suitable only in the winter season, but thanks to the latest technology, lightweight leather is being produced. This means that you can flaunt it not only in summers but also wear it all year round. 

Understanding the fashion needs and trends, Nadeem Waheed launched his line of leather and fur under the banner of Daniel’s Leather in 1995. Little did he know that his passion for fashion would lead him to the most sought-after leather brand in the USA. Daniel’s Leather started operations from Orchard Street in New York City, known as the center for leather goods. Starting from a place with huge existing competition is challenging for any business; however, Daniel’s Leather soon stood out due to its innovative designs, bold colors, and, most importantly, affordable prices.

What makes Daniel’s Leather unique is not just its customer service and designs but also the fact that it offers tailor-made leather and fur accessories. This came as a natural evolution and something people had been craving for quite some time: customized designs in luxury prêt. Vibrant color schemes, supple leathers, exotic fur trims, and plush sheepskins to be customized and fitted to your needs and desires is what the business is known for. In fact, the brand has gained immense popularity in a short span of time owing to its chic creations, colors, and styles. Moreover, cookie cutter, mass-produced styles have been replaced with cutting-edge inventive, and novel designs. Whoever comes to the store just falls in love with the stunning creations.

Thousands of loyal customers have been shopping at Daniel’s Leather season after season, becoming more of friends than mere customers. So, it won’t be wrong to say that the brand’s reputation has grown due to its loyal clientele. Since they don’t advertise, the growing customer base is purely on a grassroots level and through word-of-mouth. They think of it as their own, and they are the ones that bring more people in. 

Daniel’s Leather has put in a lot of effort to reach where they are today. Currently, they have a list of celebrities who wear and endorse the brand and tend to go back time and again for fashionable options. Names like Cardi B, DJ Khaled, Diddy, Remy Ma, and Andrew Dice Clay are a few stars amongst many others who have proudly shared and endorsed Daniel’s Leathers. Not just that, their leather pieces have been featured in shows like Saturday Night Live and Power. 

The brain behind the brand, Nadeem Waheed, aims to rule the fashion world when it comes to leather and fur. Apart from that, his goal is to ensure that anyone thinking of doing a photoshoot or making a music video presenting a cool and hip crowd would want to be seen in one of Daniel’s Leather’s fabulous creations and fashionable leather pieces. 

Daniel’s Leather has worked extremely hard to not be just people’s first choice but their only choice. And for that, a lot of thought has been put into every item, creativity, statement designs, mix and match of fluorescent colors, and the best part is that the prices will not put a dent in your wallet. The brand is at a point where its competitors have started copying the designs. Nadeem Waheed doesn’t mind other brands copying his styles but just wants them to use excellent quality skins so that the end product doesn’t look a rip-off or cheap. 

Whatever Daniel’s Leather creates has a lot of love involved in the process, and that is quite evident in the designs as well as its service. Where businesses usually take three to five years to start making a profit, the brand started churning profit just a year after its launch. If you want a luxury leather or fur item for your wardrobe that is hip and on-trend, you now know where to find it!

How TRNDY Social is Changing the Game for Retired Athletes

Mike Visnick & Logan Simmons, Founders of TRNDY Social

Often-times the names of top-level athletes are well known, however their faces & personal brands off the field usually are not. These days, it takes a blend of digital & real life brand building to have a presence that sticks after a career in sports. Leading talent agency TRNDY Social is serving as the bridge between brands and celebrities by helping celebrities in various fields realize their value and work with notable brands in symbiotic relationships.

TRNDY Social operates as a full social agency that assists athletes on marketing & by solidifying brand partnerships. It has a vast network of music industry leaders, television executives, and D2C brand owners. Aptly branded “The Bridge from Brands to Celebrities,” TRNDY Social has offices in both Boca Raton, Florida and Newport Beach, California, making its reach quite literally coast to coast. Founded by seasoned marketing experts Logan Simmons and Mike Visnick, its deep-rooted relationships with key stakeholders in the entertainment world have helped the company forge viral partnerships between celebrities and brands, making it one of newest yet one of the most reputable agencies for athletes and entertainers to solidify their brands and become more bankable.

Mike Visnick & Logan Simmons of TRNDY Social with Donovan McNabb, Former Philadelphia Eagles Quarterback

At the core,  TRNDY Social offers brand-building services by helping its clients build their digital and social media presence, tell their stories on and off the field and present them to the world in a way that the average person can relate with them and what they represent. “Celebrity marketing means significantly more than sponsoring videos or glamourous Instagram posts. The right celebrity marketing strategy enables companies to reach their target groups directly and retain them sustainably,” co-founder and CMO Logan Simmons said.

TRNDY also takes pride in its strategic approach that builds communities and guarantees real numbers and interest from the targeted audiences. “The hard reality of business in 2022 is that consumers forget about you if you’re not consistently in front of them. The best business in the world doesn’t exist if people don’t know it exists. Marketing the correct way is a requirement for success,” cofounder and CEO Mike Visnick said.

As a testament to the company’s reach, it recently signed New York Giants legend Tiki Barber in a new strategic partnership. The award-winning talent agency also manages other athletes like Terrell Owens, Donovan McNabb and many others. In addition, they have been expanding their reach to cover other areas in the entertainment industry, such as television personalities, musicians, influencers and all aspects of professional sports.

Over the next few years, the founders of TRNDY Social have plans to scale their reach by adding more global athletes, celebrities, entertainers, and brands to the company’s roster. “There is so much potential in these athletes’ brands, and we help them tap them and maximize them so that everybody wins. Our goal is to see everyone win,” Logan Simmons said.

Liram Sustiel and How He Built His Exotic Car Empire

Very few people are lucky enough to discover their passion and purpose at a young age. However, Liram Sustiel’s humble circumstances as a kid and his love for Jordan shoes opened his eyes to his business talents. As children, most of us probably have been told “No” when asking for the latest toy, the trendiest shoes, or the newest gadgets. But, Liram took matters into his own hands and started selling candy to his classmates in elementary school.

By 5th grade, his candy business grew into an empire, and he managed to save up enough money to finally buy himself a pair of Jordan 12 Retro Flu Game sneakers – a challenging feat for a 10-year-old. Throughout high school and college, he also found side hustles like burning and selling CDs and DJing for events and parties. At this point, Liram already knew he had a knack for business, and he enjoyed the challenge and fulfillment of working.

All these experiences led Liram, also known as Lee, to eventually find the business and industry that was most suitable to him. He is currently the owner and CEO of the mph club, a one-stop shop for exotic and luxury cars. They sell, rent, manage, and deliver their curated high-end collection of vehicles to affluent clients in South Florida. Under their fleet, you can find luxury brands such as Lamborghini, Ferrari, Rolls Royce, and many more.

Established initially as a car rental company in 2011, Liram has since expanded into delivery and sale. He further branched out the business to include yacht and jet charters, chauffeur services, and even a membership program for their VIP clients to have exclusive access to their exclusive collection. Truly a visionary businessman, Liram has maintained the quality and service that solidified his position in the business industry in the first place. He is highly detail-oriented and customer-centered in his plans for his business, anticipating any potential demand in the market and presenting a solution with his services offered.

mph club often has early access to brand-new exclusive vehicles. As a result, membership in the club has become highly sought after by world-famous celebrities, artists, athletes, and executives. Liram also attends exhibitions, and car shows to display his drool-worthy collection. This month, the mph club attended Supercar Saturdays Florida and Exotics at Dania Pointe. Talk of his star-studded car collection is at a level where even the mph club showroom is rented out for various types of creative productions. 

Liram’s passion for exotic vehicles, combined with his business talents, led to him creating this progressive business model and turning his interest into a highly profitable venture. In an interview, Lee mentioned that his 5-year plan for the mph club is to branch out to more locations such as Vegas, New York, and Atlanta. Fueled by a spark ignited when he was a young boy, Lee continues to dominate the exotic car industry. He believes that anyone willing to put in the time and work can achieve high levels of success. Backed by drive and passion, such a belief that worked well for him will surely inspire other aspiring entrepreneurs.

How Abraj Bay Is Redefining the Real Estate Market in Qatar

The Qatar real estate market has grown, reaching a new high, a trend attributed to the country’s upcoming mega events (The FIFA World Cup, Formula 1, and FINA World Championships). Another reason for this upward trend is the new and improved home designs made possible by real estate development companies like Abraj Bay.

Abraj Bay is a luxury real estate development company changing the Qatar real estate market by bringing in more sustainable and functional designs. They have built a one-of-a-kind estate, Abraj Bay, in Qatar’s capital, Doha. Abraj Bay features 2 spas, a hair salon, BBQ areas, 2 restaurants, 6 swimming pools, 2 outdoor kids’ play areas, 2 indoor kids’ play areas, 2 coffee shops, 2 padel courts, and resting areas. 

In July of this year, Abraj Bay unveiled its modern-day rest stations for delivery drivers. The stations are shaded with large umbrellas and are equipped with water cooler dispensers as well as mini-fridges to store water and other drinks, fruits, and snacks. This is part of their plan to build a luxurious estate with plenty of space and first-class utilities. 

The rest stations, which have enough space to accommodate several benches, are designed to help the country’s delivery drivers rest and recharge as they go on with their day-to-day jobs. Abraj Bay has involved tenants in this project as they will also be able to contribute by filling the mini-fridges with food and drinks.

Abraj Bay at Abraj Quartier is redefining luxury family living and Qatar’s real estate market. The properties are equipped with the highest quality fixtures, finishes, and fittings and have received several awards. Abraj Bay received two 5-star awards during the 2022 Africa & Arabia Property Awards, where they were recognized for their property discipline and exceptional residential services.

They are also the recipients of the Best Residential Development Award in the Africa & Arabia region and a winner of 3 awards for the Best Property Video, Rising Star, and Best Developer for the years 2021–2022 by Property Finder Awards. The Abraj Bay delegation was recognized as the Best Residential Development with 20+ Units in Qatar and Best Residential High-Rise Development.  

Abraj Bay is pushing for sustainability in luxury real estate as they build a more fulfilling experience for its residents. Other than the great designs and modern finishes, Abraj Bay has a mobile app. Through the Abraj Bay mobile app, you can book/schedule viewings, signings, renewals, request car wash services, water delivery, and more.

With the completion of the new phase, Abraj Bay is redefining luxury living for Qatar and creating the ultimate experience. Their work has enabled them to cement their spot and take the Qatar real estate market to new heights.

As they continue to grow, the team strives to implement sustainable strategies, upscale its facilities and set new benchmarks in the global luxury real estate industry. Abraj Bay sees itself as the pioneer and leader of luxurious real estate developments recognized regionally and globally. Abraj Bay has also been nominated in the Residential High Rise Development category for the upcoming 2022 worldwide IPA event in London, UK.

Meet Mario Amean: The Emerging NYC-Based Photographer Pursuing a Medical Career

We often associate passion with pursuing one path. Indeed, many established authorities even share stories of grit and dedication that demonstrates their process of transforming their one dream into reality. However, passion can also mean the desire to become fulfilled in life – no matter how many dreams one has. After all, in dreams, the sky is the limit, and Mario Amean is intimately familiar with that.

While countless individuals are focused on one dream, Mario Amean is bent on materializing two goals: to become a highly recognized photographer and a well-rounded doctor. It may seem like an unlikely duo, but it has always been this talented personality’s dream not only to provide great photos but also to save lives. By continuing to defy the odds, Mario is on his way to conquering two worlds and transforming his vision into action one step at a time.

Having been raised by a family of passion-driven photographers, it came as no surprise that Mario Amean developed a deep-seated love for the craft. Since he was ten years old, he has been working with his dad, who used to own several photography studios in Egypt. Together with his siblings, Mario explored the world of photography.

For more than 15 years, Mario assisted his dad, from whom he learned several tricks of the trade. As a matter of fact, he has developed quite extensive skills in using and handling Photoshop, producing photos that are top-notch. Mario eventually cemented a reputable stance in photography, enabling him to grow a massive following of 2.4 million followers on Instagram.

Pounding the pavement with his desire to solidify himself even further, this NYC-based professional photographer is teaching photography classes to help those who aspire to make a mark in the realm of films and reels. He also teamed up with his two younger brothers, Edwar and Mody, to create an app called Klik Photography. This app will serve as a platform where clients from all walks of life can book them as photographers and have an easy and fun experience.

“I would describe my work as professional. I have a great experience that allows me to provide my customers with quality photos,” explained Mario.  

However, his dream was not limited to mastering the art of photography. In the middle of taking photos, Mario Amean was also studying to become a doctor in order to save lives. As a matter of fact, while he was building his portfolio, this talented photographer was also spending his time in books, delving deep into the world of medicine. 

“I love art, but I also love medicine. I plan to apply my experience as a photographer in my career as a medical doctor one day,” shared Mario.

When we define passion, it is not just about pursuing one dream career. It could be anything under the sun, such as aiming to live a happy and successful life and the like. In Mario Amean’s case, his dream is to become a photographer and doctor. As he continues to aim high, Mario wishes to inspire people to dream big and never settle for less.

 

Inspired By American History – Here’s How Jesus Marquez is Collecting Antique Treasure

Vises have adorned workshops and workbenches for centuries, with the earliest records being found in the 1700s. Throughout this period, the purpose behind vises has remained unchanged: to help build the railroads and let craftsmen carve, cut, and drill wood and metal with unparalleled precision.

 Vises are tools made to help woodworkers, jewelers, clockmakers, and metalworkers hold wooden or metallic pieces in place. The earliest vises ever to be discovered date back to 1750. Before the advent of vises, workers had to hold objects in place manually with wedges and hammers; however, the invention of vises changed this age-old practice, allowing for simpler and more convenient crafting.

 The first vises were made of wood which proved invaluable for artisans and woodworkers; however, they were found lacking in terms of durability. The second generation of vises was created in England in 1830, which featured a cast iron body, providing them with the required sturdiness to withstand rough use.

 Antique tool collector and entrepreneur Jesus Marquez has made a career out of collecting and restoring antique vises to their former glory. Jesus explained how his passion for antiques gave way to his brand,

 “I’ve been an antique enthusiast since I was a kid, and back then, I fell in love with the story of how vises were built to hold America.” Jesus further informed, “I founded Mexashop1, not as a company but as a brand that works as a platform for me to showcase my antique vise and tool collection. I” ve been collecting vises since 2015 because these tools played a vital role in America “s history, they were used to build America, and I suppose that “s what makes them so interesting for me.”

When asked about his most prized possessions, Marquez shared, “Over the years, I have managed to secure some rare pieces, such as The BugaV vise, The Reed 209 9” Jaws, only one known in existence, the Parker 260X vise 360lbs – one of the only two in existence and the only Prentiss factory wood show display vise that’s over a hundred years old. These are just a few that I can count on my fingertips. Apart from that, I also have many original vise display shelves used in retail stores over one hundred years ago, Reed 109.” And many 8’’ vises are well over 200lbs.

Marquez elaborated on the subject, “I am a strong believer of ‘they don’t make it like they used to’, because even though the latest iterations of these tools are better at their jobs, it wouldn’t be right to just forget about the originals and how they paved the way for the future generations.”

Jesus, on how he separates antiques from modern iterations, went on to reveal, “It’s not something anyone can pull off. There are times when the distinctions are visible, but I largely depend on my intuition. Sometimes you can find the date of production on the slide keys or on the back jaws/static, but depending on that solely can be a gamble because back in the day, manufacturers sometimes used to put warranty expiration dates, so it makes the entire process a bit confusing.”

He continued, “The designs are also a bit different from the modern versions. Over Time, artisans found ways to tweak the designs, so the latest iterations have additional features that the antique pieces lack, such as the rotating vise heads and the specialty jaws.” 

The quest and passion of Jesus may seem uncalled for to some; however, Marquez’s consistency and dedication have inspired the people of today to connect with history. Although the antique industry is very small and mostly active online, through the smart use of social media, Jesus has been able to leave a mark on those who value – and are intrigued – by the true essence of the old world’s mechanical treasure.