How did you get to where you are today? Passion, persistence, and faith, and a little bit of luck. I graduated from Vanderbilt University with a degree in Political Science and Spanish, on the track to be pre-med. Little did I know that a journey to help my younger sister would set my course to sail in PR. I had no background in communication, except my raw talent, and was fortunate enough to have a family member who needed her story to be told! I was helping tell my younger sister (one of the most recognized influencers in the online vegan community) @fullyrawkristina’s story, and it all blossomed from there.
Whom do you credit? Firstly, God, but also the amazing individuals who came into my life to help show me the way: Jessica Castellano - who took a chance on me and started Zapatero + Bucaram PR with me, her 26 year old business partner — and my sister, FullyRaw Kristina, for allowing us to tell her story! Along the way, every client I have ever had or colleague I have worked with has left me with indelible memories and lessons, and helped me gain a deeper understanding of our ever changing industry!
What lessons have you learned that might enlighten and inspire others? I show up with kindness for all I meet and give more than I expect to receive. I work with passion and persistence, and always try to connect the dots for individuals who need it. I feel strongly that women should support each other, and don’t be afraid to fail. It’s part of the fiber of learning.
What’s new in your life or work that you’re excited about? Recently, I have been working with many nonprofit organizations who have given so much to our society. I work with the Global Empowerment Mission who helped bring over $800,000 to Texas during the winter storms, and now has raised over $20M in aid for the Ukrainian Crisis -- acquiring national media such as the Today show, CBS Nightly News, NBC Nightly News, FOX, CNN, and also specials on Anderson Cooper. I am honored to work with celebrity musicians and their non-profit organizations, such as Marc Anthony’s nonprofit, Maestro Cares, to bring opportunities for children to live, play, and learn — across Latin and Central America, and I am also very blessed to have influencers such as: FullyRaw Kristina, Internationally Renowned Multi-Genere viral Violinist, “DEMOLA the Violinist,” Nationally acclaimed beauty Influencer Marlena Stell, disease reversal specialist and MD - Dr. Brooke Goldner, and many more! Excited to expand my international and national portfolio and continue working with celebrity contacts as well as musicians!
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‘Sexy Issue’ Fashion: Real Couple Valen Custer and Vitor Villar Get Close in Racy Romp at ZaZa
Aug. 9, 2024
IN-DEMAND MODEL Valen Custer and her Brazilian fiancé Vitor Villar match the summer heat, in a racy romp highlighting swimwear, lingerie and a smart little preview of fall.
Romper, boots and necklace, all by Gucci
Suit, by Giorgio Armani
Bralette, skirt and belt, all by Michael Kors. On him: Pants, price upon request, by Lucho
Dress, by Chanel
Dress, by Chanel
On him: Briefs, $27, by Calvin Klein. On her: Bra, $540, underwear, $220, and stockings, $125, all by Murmur at Top Drawer Lingerie.
Suit and gloves, by Gucci
Corset, $570, and thong, $180, by I.D. Sarrieri at Top Drawer Lingerie; with trench coat, $1,550, by Burberry at Neiman Marcus
Photos by Steven Visneau
Styling by Todd Ramos
Art direction by Patrick Magee
Hair and makeup by Edward Sanchez
Photographed on location at Hotel Zaza, Museum District
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SAY GOODBYE TO sun-damaged, parched skin and revive your natural glow during the dog days of summer. August is National Wellness Month, so hop on these beauty specials for a little Me Time.
The Post Oak Hotel
Vitality Lounge at the Post Oak Hotel Spa
Through August, couples are invited to experience the rooftop helipad (really!) with the Mind & Unwind Package, which includes a calming meditation and soothing massage. Additionally, every Wednesday this month, the hotel’s spa offers both a 50-minute stone massage for $195 and a 50-minute, deep-cleansing facial for $195, along with a specially priced Dermaplane enhancement for $55.
Milk & Honey
Milk & Honey
Freshen up for the school year with a brow lamination and tint and a lash lift and tint. Students enjoy 15 percent off these services and more Monday through Thursday during August with a student ID. Sisters and moms should go along and try it, too! Another promo: Refer a friend and get 500 bonus points, and your friend gets $25 off their first treatment.
Thompson Hotel Houston
Known as one of the top hotels for wellness recovery, Thompson Houston has tapped Los Angeles-based MedSpa Dripology for a collab in honor of National Wellness Month. At the Dripology IV pop-up this month, guests can give the signature treatments a whirl. Each Friday through Sunday, Thompson Houston will also offer wellness-focused events, classes and lectures including meditation and yoga. Nutritionists, sex therapists and financial wellness experts are all a part of the special lineup.
Trellis Spa at the Houstonian
Trellis Spa soaking pools and cabanas
With a spa appointment, guests can also indulge in the ultimate outdoor hideaway — but don’t worry, you’ll stay cool as a cucumber. The backyard soaking pools include single and double cabanas that can be reserved for before or after your treatment. Semi-private shaded spaces feature ceiling fans, privacy curtains and cushy lounge seating. Included is a bottle of Prosecco, water, a shared appetizer plate and convenient food and beverage service. Don’t forget to try or take home the travel sized Coola organic sunscreen and Natura Bissé C+C Vitamin Splash Spray!
And book now for a Labor Day getaway — a package includes two free cocktails and free self-parking, plus late checkout, available Aug. 30-Sept. 3.
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