Rachel Brown - Bumblebee Video | Chicago

On the Couch: Rachel Brown Performs at DailyCandy

The singer/songwriter plays "Bumblebee" off her debut album

The last thing we taught ourselves was the “Gangnam Style” dance. Someone thought it was the MC Hammer (so you can imagine how good it was).

New Yorker Rachel Brown, on the other hand, taught herself to sing and play guitar during her junior year at Harvard. Now three years later, Wyclef regularly joins her onstage and she’s opened for John Legend.

For today’s video, we invited her to our office to perform the cheerful “Bumblebee,” accompanied by a six-person band (before you ask, that crazy thing is called a kora).

The hype is justified. Notice she’s even picked up the ukulele.

Can’t touch that.

Brown’s debut album, Building Castles, is available at itunes.com. To see more performances, check out our sit-downs with Christina Courtin, Karen Elson, Freelance Whales, and Eliza Doolittle.

Next Video: The Right Way to Do a Sit-Up

The Right Way to Do a Sit-Up

Anna Rahe from GST Body Demonstrates

Oh, to have the confidence of Angie’s right leg.

We’re working our way to full exposure (not J.Lo’s kind, mind you) with help from GST Body, an L.A.-based studio that’s stretched and strengthened us in ways we didn’t think possible.

In today’s videos, GST Body founder Anna Rahe, whom we’ll call “The Body,” shows editor Lauren Lumsden a few simple exercises: the correct way to do a sit-up (above); deceptively hard arm raises to tone shoulders, back, and abs; and leg lifts that’ll whip your butt into shape.

Rahe — excuse us, The Body — uses a Kinetic Traction Strap, but you can easily substitute a dog leash or jump rope.

Just don’t be an exhibitionist about it.

For more information and exercises or to order the Kinetic Traction Strap ($50), go to gstbody.com.

Next Video: A Killer Leg Lift to Tone Your Bum

A Deceptively Hard-Core Exercise

Anna Rahe from GST Body Strengthens Your Upper Body

If lifting your shoulders up and down can help chisel your abs, sign us up. Alas, this exercise from GST Body founder Anna Rahe isn’t as easy as it looks (which is probably why it works).

For more information and exercises or to order the Kinetic Traction Strap ($50), go to gstbody.com.

Next Video: How to Drink Scotch like a Pro

A Killer Leg Lift to Tone Your Bum

GST Body's Anna Rahe Gets Our Rear in Gear

Don’t walk backward into the ocean. Tone your derriere with help from Anna Rahe, founder of GST Body in Los Angeles. In this video, she demonstrates some moves you can get behind. (Get it?)

For more information and exercises or to order the Kinetic Traction Strap ($50), go to gstbody.com.

Next Video: Nail Art at Rachel Antonoff

How to Drink Scotch like a Pro

A Lesson from Whisky Expert Ricky Crawford

“A bottle of Boone’s Farm followed by a Zima flavored with Skittles.” — Us, 1997

“Single-malt Scotch, please.” — Us, 2012

Responsible for this personal growth: Ricky Crawford, a former Glenlivet brand ambassador who throws the funniest and most informative single-malt Scotch tastings this side of Glasgow.

In today’s video, he gives us a miniature lesson on how to order — and actually enjoy — a glass of the good Scottish spirit. Do as he says and you’ll be surprised how many heads turn at the bar.

Crawford’s as charming as he is Scottish. (Yes, the man wears a kilt.) And now you can book his services for all your soirees (birthdays, bachelorette parties, etc.).

Just don’t take any cheap shots.

To book Crawford for a tasting, go to rickyshopscotch.com.

Next Video: Hair at Suno

Nail Art at Rachel Antonoff

Backstage with CND Artist Shelena Robinson

We’d be lying if we said unlimited coconut water and granola bars weren’t huge incentives for going backstage during New York Fashion Week.

But it’s also pretty freaking cool to be surrounded by beauty’s greatest talents as they do their thing.

In today’s videos, we venture into the chaos and ask the experts to give us the inside track on the looks at some of our favorite shows. We get a floral nail-art tutorial at Rachel Antonoff (above) and explanations/inspirations for the asymmetrical chignons at Suno, avant-garde braids at Creatures of the Wind, and loose ponytails at Tracy Reese.

As always, some are more wearable than others.

But at least they won’t take up any room in your purse.

Want to keep watching? Check out our backstage beauty videos for the spring/summer 2012 shows at Timo Weiland, Erin Fetherston, and Rebecca Minkoff. And by all means, read up on current Fashion Week shows on our Tumblr.

Next Video: Hair at Creatures of the Wind

Hair at Suno

Backstage with Kerastase Stylist Odile Gilbert

You know when you pull your hair back to wash your face and somehow it looks so good you wish you were going out? Okay, so maybe that’s happened only once. But it’s the same accidental elegance Kérastase’s Odile Gilbert channeled for Suno last Friday night. In this video, she discusses the hairstyle and her inspiration.

Want to keep watching? Check out our backstage videos at Rachel Antonoff, Tracy Reese, and Creatures of the Wind.

Next Video: Hair at Tracy Reese

Hair at Creatures of the Wind

Backstage with Kerastase Stylist Odile Gilbert

If you can whip up a covetable do using butterfly clips, matted braids, and glitter, then you must be a miracle worker. Or you’re Kérastase stylist Odile Gilbert, who did exactly that at Creatures of the Wind last Thursday. In this video, Gilbert (the master behind the hair for Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette) explains her look.

Want more? Check out our backstage videos at Rachel Antonoff, Tracy Reese, and Suno.

Next Video: Your V-Day Plans, Simplified

Hair at Tracy Reese

Backstage with Tresemme Stylist Jeanie Syfu

We love seeing ponytails on the catwalk (it gives our go-to look sartorial credibility). In this case, Tresemmé stylist Jeanie Syfu kicks the simple style up a few notches by leaving front sections out and pinning them over the rubber band. Watch this video to learn how she does it.

Want more? Check out our backstage videos at Rachel Antonoff, Suno, and Creatures of the Wind.

Next Video: How to Massage Your Dog

Your V-Day Plans, Simplified

Dedicated Video: The Vow

All that stands out about last Valentine’s Day’s prix fixe are the stomach issues you suffered for three days following.

This year make a date that promises romance to remember: See The Vow, in theaters now.

Starring Rachel McAdams (The Notebook) and Channing Tatum (Dear John), the film follows two lovers struggling to retain their relationship after a car accident leaves one with severe memory loss.

Accompanying beaus and BFFs alike will agree: Between the undeniable chemistry, emotion, and anticipation, The Vow encapsulates exactly what this holiday is all about.

Watch the trailer now. Learn more online at thevow-movie.com.

Next Video: Magician Jeff Grow Performs in Our Office

How to Massage Your Dog

Buddha Dog's Canine Masseuse Shows Us the Proper Technique

Dear Mom,

You think it’s easy dozing most of the day, begging for biscuits, nipping at your heels, and barking at squirrels?

Okay, it is. But that doesn’t mean I don’t want a massage, like the one certified animal masseuse Pam Holt gives to our L.A. editor’s best friend, Agnes, in today’s video.

All it takes is a little kneading and gentle stretching on your part to give me improved flexibility, energy, and overall happiness. Plus, it’ll help my anxiety. (I know I sometimes get a little cray cray when you leave.)

Also, can I have a treat? Please and thanks.

Love,

Spartacus Brownie Von Lickety Jones Jr.

P.S. I accidentally humped the cat yesterday.

For more information about Pam Holt and dog massage, go to buddhadog.com.

Next Video: What Should Be in Your Wallet?

Magician Jeff Grow Performs in Our Office

He Shows Us a Few of His Finest Parlor Tricks

This past Friday the workday disappeared before our eyes. One second it was 4 p.m.; the next, closing time.

The man behind the miracle: magician Jeff Grow, whose awe-inspiring office performance made the weekend arrive early. Hoping for time to fly on repeat, we captured it on video.

Limes inexplicably transported between cups, roses appeared out of nowhere, and insane card tricks kept us captivated. Even when we watched the footage in slo-mo, we were puzzled.

Grow, who looks like the lovechild of Michael Bublé and John Mayer, first learned magic from his grandfather in Upstate New York. Since then, he’s performed for audiences of four to 1,000. He even showcased his insane juggling skills in a Progressive commercial.

And that’s no hocus pocus.

For more information, go to jeffgrow.net. For more videos filmed on our office couch, check out music videos with Lily & the Parlour Tricks and Eliza Doolittle.

Next Video: What's the Best Way to Combine Bank Accounts?

What Should Be in Your Wallet?

LearnVest's Alexa von Tobel Has the Answer

You can infer a lot about a person from her wallet. Pictures of 28 kids? G-ma. Big wad of ones? Stripper. A dozen Red Lobster receipts? Someone we want to be friends with.

But, if you’re like us, there’s a big difference between what’s in your wallet and what should be in it, according to Alexa von Tobel, founder of women’s go-to finance site LearnVest.

In today’s video, von Tobel goes through editor Lauren Lumsden’s wallet and explains what she is doing right ($45 in cash) and wrong (a million gift cards). We especially love her tip on the one thing that significantly increases the chances of your wallet being returned if you lose it.

Von Tobel also advises us on her preferred way to divide finances after you get married and what to do with an extra $100 (two of LearnVest’s most frequently asked questions).

To us, that’s worth a lot of (Cheddar Bay biscuit) dough.

For more tips, go to learnvest.com. For 25 percent off LearnVest’s personalized financial planning services, enter DAILYCANDY25 at checkout.

Next Video: What Should You Do with an Extra $100?

What's the Best Way to Combine Bank Accounts?

LearnVest's Alexa von Tobel's Tips on Joint Finances

It’s an uncomfortable question but a necessary one: What’s the best way to combine bank accounts with your partner after you get married? In this video, LearnVest’s founder Alexa von Tobel has pragmatic advice for doing just that.

For more solid financial guidance, go to learnvest.com.

Next Video: Behind Closed Doors: Nutritionist Kimberly Snyder's Fridge

What Should You Do with an Extra $100?

LearnVest's Alexa von Tobel Helps Prioritize

Think fast: Your income just increased by $100 every month. What do you do, hotshot? What do you do? LearnVest’s founder Alexa von Tobel knows where you should put that cash and explains it here. (Sadly, the answer isn’t in a new Marc Jacobs bag.)

For more solid financial advice, go to learnvest.com.

Next Video: Protein Smoothie Recipe

Behind Closed Doors: Nutritionist Kimberly Snyder's Fridge

She Gives Us a Tour (and Lots of Tips)

It’s nothing to laugh about: Doritos addictions are real. One whiff of nacho cheesiness and, suddenly, you’re at four (snack) packs a day.

Time for an intervention. In today’s video, nutritionist Kimberly Snyder gives us something to aspire to by showing us what’s in her home fridge — and why. Since she specializes in beautifying foods, each item she stocks (from kale to almonds) has qualities that improve hair and/or skin.

Plus, she reveals her recipes for a Greek-inspired millet salad and her favorite protein smoothie, as well as instructions for what she calls “energy in a spoon.”

We’re thanking our lucky stars for Snyder, who works with too many celebs to name, because the how-tos and advice in her book, The Beauty Detox Solution, have done more for our skin than pricey face creams.

She’s way cooler than Cool Ranch.

The Beauty Detox Solution is available online at amazon.com, $11. For more nutrition tips, recipes, and information on Snyder, go to kimberlysnyder.net.

Next Video: Energy in a Spoon

Protein Smoothie Recipe

Nutritionist Kimberly Snyder Shares Her Chia Seed Delight

We’ve all pounded a rib-eye in the name of getting more protein. Opt for a healthier alternative: an easy-to-make smoothie, courtesy of nutritionist Kimberly Snyder. The recipe calls for a beautifying blend of chia seeds, hemp protein, banana, and almond milk, and takes only five minutes to prepare.

Buy Snyder’s book, The Beauty Detox Solution, online at amazon.com, $11. For more nutrition tips and recipes, go to kimberlysnyder.net.

Next Video: Greek-Inspired Millet Salad Recipe

Energy in a Spoon

Nutritionist Kimberly Snyder's Bee Pollen Beauty Secret

Turns out, bee pollen isn’t just for buzzing insects. According to nutritionist Kimberly Snyder, it’s chockful of beautifying vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. In this quick video, she demos how she likes to take it for an instant boost of energy. (Note: If you’re allergic to pollen, please don’t eat it.)

To order bee pollen, go to whiteoakapiary.com. Buy Snyder’s book, The Beauty Detox Solution, online at amazon.com, $11. For more nutrition tips and recipes, go to kimberlysnyder.net.

Next Video: Mary Lou's Blueberry Cobbler Recipe

Greek-Inspired Millet Salad Recipe

Nutritionist Kimberly Snyder's Easy Instructions

When we first heard of millet, we thought it was birdseed. Turns out, it’s delicious, full of protein, gluten free, and filling. Here’s one way nutritionist Kimberly Snyder prepares it — perfect for a packed lunch.

Greek-Inspired Millet Salad
Serves four to six

Ingredients
2 c. dry millet
¼ c. olive oil
2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp. raw apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp. minced shallot
2 tsp. dried oregano
High-quality sea salt, to taste
1 tbsp. Dijon mustard
1 c. chopped parsley
¼ c. chopped scallions
1/3 c. kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
1 c. chopped tomatoes
1/3 c. capers, drained

1. Soak millet overnight and rinse well. Prepare according to package directions. Strain, cool, and set aside.

2. Blend olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, shallot, oregano, salt, and mustard until smooth.

3. Pour mixture over millet. Add parsley, scallion, olives, tomatoes, and capers. Stir and serve.

Buy Snyder’s book, The Beauty Detox Solution, online at amazon.com, $11. For more nutrition tips and recipes, go to kimberlysnyder.net.

Next Video: Ninette's Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

Mary Lou's Blueberry Cobbler Recipe

Editor Lauren Lumsden Shares an Old Family Treat

Kate Moss says nothing tastes as good as skinny feels, but we beg to differ. The time-honored recipes our families pull out during the holidays are more than worth a little jiggle.

For today’s videos, we share a few of our favorites. Editor Lauren Lumsden’s mom, Mary Lou, makes the tastiest blueberry cobbler at her celebration in Roanoke, Virginia. Senior editor Karen Palmer’s dad, George, is known for the anchovy and olive spaghetti he produces at his Chester, New Jersey, Feast of the Seven Fishes. And Everywhere editor Tiffany Davis’s mom, Ninette, serves an unreal broccoli and cheese casserole at her group’s get-together down in Atlanta.

Each dish is extremely easy, delicious, and — we’ll just say it — delightfully unhealthy. Did we mention Ninette’s casserole is basically cheese with a little bit of broccoli?

God help the models who watch.

Get the full cobbler recipe. For more family holiday meal goodness, watch the video New York editor Jordan Blumberg made last year featuring her mom’s champagne fruit salad.

Ninette's Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

Editor Tiffany Davis Pays Homage to Her Mom

When DailyCandy’s Everywhere editor, Tiffany Davis, was growing up in Atlanta, her mom couldn’t get her to even look at a vegetable — until she made this casserole. The dish is basically mac ’n’ cheese with broccoli and rice instead of noodles. Brilliant.

Get the full recipe.