Tag Archive for public relations


Celebrate Canada 150 | Toronto Events

By: Dana Sondak

Canada, a country of new beginnings, acceptance, freedom, All Dressed chips and Coffee Crisp chocolate bars. We’re the land of maple syrup, poutine and hockey.

To commemorate Canada’s 150 birthday there are some special events happening across Canada.  Here are some events happening in Toronto

Snap & Share Photo Contest

Toronto City Hall & Nathan Phillips Square

Entry period: May 15 – July 31 | No cost to submit entry

Every year Toronto holds a photo contest. This year, the contest returns with a special TO Canada with Love category. This gives the opportunity for people to submit their photos of Toronto’s parks, natural spaces and recreation centres for a chance to win prizes and has their photos featured in City of Toronto publications. Share your photos on social media with #SnapShareTO, and submit your entries at toronto.ca/photocontest.

Canada Days

 

When: June 30 to July 3 | Cost: Free

Prepare for four days of fun with this citywide celebration. There will be a four-day festival at Nathan Phillips Square from June 30 to July 3 and one-day events at Mel Lastman Square, Humber Bay Park West and Scarborough Civic Centre on July 1. Barenaked Ladies, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, dvsn, Belly, Basia Bulat and much more will be performing at these locations throughout these days, so don’t miss out! Full details can be found on toronto.ca/canadadays.  

ROMWalks Plus: 150 Years of King Street

When: June 11, July 2, August 13, September 10 | Cost: Tickets: $10.00

Take a tour down King Street East and see how the community, businesses, public buildings, shops and transit have evolved from fruition to present day. These tours are rain or shine, so be prepared to bring an umbrella! Click here for full details.

Carly Rae Jepsen with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra

When: June 17 | Cost: $75.00

The “Call Me Maybe” singer herself is making her must-see TSO debut! JUNO Award-winning and GRAMMY-nominated singer-songwriter Carly Rae Jepsen will be performing her hit singles at Roy Thomson Hall with a full orchestra. Definitely not to be missed! Click here for full details and tickets.

 Splash!: Canada 150

When: June 23 | Cost: $35.00

This year, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is hosting a special event series with five themed parties throughout the year! On June 23, swim over to Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada to celebrate Canada’s 150th Birthday. This event is 19+ and will feature Canadian-themed music, food, drinks and an epic Caesar bar. Sharks, jellyfish and Caesars? Count us in! Check out the other themed parties that will happen later this year and buy tickets here!

Ontario 150 Tour

When: July 1 – August 13 | Cost: Free

From July 1 – August 13, the Ontario 150 Tour will travel to six ports in Ontario to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary. Featuring the West Coast Lumberjack Show, the World’s Largest Rubber Duck, Rhythm of the Nation (Rythme de la Nation), live music and lots of fun. Who wouldn’t want to see the World’s Largest Rubber Duck??

Catch the Ontario 150 Tour in any of the following ports: Toronto, Owen Sound, Sault Ste Marie, Midland, Amherstberg and Brockville. For more info click here.

Downsview Park Canada Day Festival

When: July 1 | Cost: Free

For those that don’t want to make the trek downtown, head over to Downsview Park for food, rides, music and fireworks display at sunset to end the day with a bang! (No pun intended). Fun for the whole family! **Disclaimer: entry may be free, but food and drink are not. For more information click here.

Nuit Blanche Toronto

When: September 30, 2017| Cost: Free

The sunset to sunrise contemporary art event is back for its 12th year in Toronto. This year’s theme “Nuit Blanche 2017: Many Possible Futures” focuses on Canada’s history as a nation.

The installations will focus on notions of Identity and Nationhood, including Migration, Displacement, Colonialism, Power and Privilege, Settlement, the Natural Landscape, Distance, Exploration, Adaptation and Reconciliation. See a full map of art installations online at nbto.com.

How are you celebrating Canada’s 150th? Let us know on social media!

Twitter: @glo_comm

Facebook: @glocommunications

Instagram: @glo_comm

-Team GLO

Five Minute Makeup Routine for an on-the-go PR Professional

By Dana Sondak

Mornings can be tough, and having to apply your makeup at 8 a.m. can be a daunting task, especially when it can be hard to even get your eyes open. We’ve put together a five-minute makeup routine to make your lives easier.

Skincare

Having a skincare routine will make your makeup application easier, faster and flawless. Cleanse and hydrate your face at night and first thing in the morning. Consistency is key for clear skin. We love The Ordinary line which is under the umbrella of Deciem: The Abnormal Beauty Company. There are three products we love, which will help hydrate your skin and get it ready to apply makeup. Prices range from $4.90 to $17.80. All the products are lightweight and fragrance-free. No fuss, no frills; truly “clinical formulations with integrity”.

Step 1: Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG | Price: $6.70

This water-based solution will help with those pesky undereye bags and puffiness.

Step 2: Salicylic Acid 2% Solution | Price: $4.90

Use this to help clear any current breakouts and prevent future ones.

Step 3: Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA | Price: $5.80

This lightweight and fast absorbing cream is the last step to leave your skin hydrated and prepped for makeup. Price: $5.80

Now we’re ready for a quick makeup routine that will leave you feeling polished and professional.

 

Primer

Start with an illuminating or dewy primer to make your makeup last longer, look smoother and give your skin a healthy glow. NYX Cosmetics Born to Glow Illuminating Primer is a great option for a low cost ($20 CAD).

 

Concealer

Next, spot conceal under your eyes and on any blemishes, you want to cover up. No need for a full face of foundation. Using a bit of concealer will still give you the coverage you want, and take away the chance of having cakey foundation throughout the day.

 

Powder

Most people wouldn’t consider this a necessary step; we think otherwise. Dust a light layer of any powder over the concealer to make it last longer, look more natural and keep oil at bay.

 

Bronzer or Blush

If you want a more bronzed contoured look, use any brush and dust your favourite bronzer along the hollow of your cheeks (line your brush up with your tragus and the corner of your mouth as a guide) and the corners of your forehead. You’ll look sunkissed and put together.

If you’re more into a rosy flush, use a bit of blush on the apples of your cheeks to add some colour and life to your face and skip the bronzer (or use both if you’re feeling rebellious).   

The Elf Beauty Blush and Bronzer Duo have both in one convenient package.

 

Eyebrows

This step may be unnecessary for some but lightly filling in or shaping your eyebrows can make you look polished. Use a tinted brow gel, like the Benefit Cosmetics Gimme Brow Volumizing Fiber Gel and comb through your brows to help fill in sparse areas by mimicking real hair strands, and keep the hairs in place (and going in the right direction).

 

Mascara

A bit of mascara goes a long way. Apply on top and bottom lashes (yes, even the baby bottom lashes). This will open your eyes, making you look more awake and complete the look. Don’t waste your money on a high-end mascara. The Colossal Volum’ Express mascara by Maybelline has a mega brush to separate and lengthen for clump-free lashes.

 

Tinted Lip Balm

Finish the look by using a tinted lip balm to hydrate your lips and give them a light wash of colour. You can throw one in your purse and reapply without worrying about smudging your lipstick, or sticky lipgloss.   

 

Tips

For an even faster makeup routine find multi-use products. Nudestix Nudies is an all over face colour that’s quick and easy to use. Swipe on your cheeks, lips and eyes and blend with your finger or the brush conveniently on the other side of the stick, for a natural “no makeup” makeup look.

Use a hydrating mist for a midday boost. This will freshen up your makeup and add some moisture giving you a fresh glow. The Mario Badescu Facial Spray With Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater retails for only $9 CAD, and is small enough to keep in your purse.

Have your own makeup tips and tricks? Let us know in the comments!

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Twitter: @glo_comm

Facebook: @glocommunications

Instagram: @glo_comm

 – Team Glo

6 Coffee Shops Perfect for Every PR Meeting

By Dana Sondak 

Coffee culture in Toronto is booming.

From Thornhill’s Sorelle & Co., to Fashion District’s Quantum Coffee, there’s sure to be a coffee shop with latte art you can Instagram.

With coffee shops popping up in every area, it’s easy to find a cozy spot to have client meetings.

The benefits of having meetings outside of the office?

  1. You get to leave the office for a bit, giving you a break from sitting at your desk.
  2. Creates a comfortable space for both parties. Meeting in a public setting relaxes the meeting, and makes it easier to connect on a more personal, rather than just a professional, level.
  3. Coffee is always a perk.

Here are six coffee shops in Toronto and the GTA that are perfect to take your clients to while experiencing Toronto’s growing coffee scene:

 

1. Sorelle & Co. | Thornhill

Located in a revamped post office, this cafe is sure to bring out your inner Prince/Princess attending a tea party. The interior is decorated with sparkling round, diamond chandeliers, white couches and chairs fit for Royalty. Not only is Sorelle & Co. a worry-free* cafe with a ton of sweet treats to choose from, they also serve soup, salad, wraps and paninis.

What we recommend: Crinkle Chocolate Cookie and a Soy Milk Latte. No dairy here.

* Worry-free: They are completely gluten-free, soy-free, sesame-free, nut-free, preservative-free and vegan.

Click here for more on Sorelle & Co.

 

2. Rooster Coffee House | King St. East

With it’s laid back, hipster vibes and comfy couches, Rooster Coffee House is the place to take your chill clients. The staff is super friendly, the latte art is always on point (and delicious), and their baked goods are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Because you can’t have coffee without a cookie, right?

What we recommend: any latte. Let them amaze you with their latte art skills.

Click here for more on Rooster Coffee House.

 

3. Dineen Coffee Co. | Financial District

Located walking distance from Union, King, and Queen subway stops, Dineen Coffee Co. is a convenient spot for meetings. It’s impressive size compared to most Downtown Toronto coffee shops with lots of seating adds to the great atmosphere.   There may be peak hours but you’re sure to find a quiet spot to sit and chat with your client or co-worker.

What we recommend: The Temperance Espresso Blend, and a fruit and yogurt parfait.

Click here for more on Dineen Coffee Co.

 

4. Cafe Neon | Queen St. West

This Queen West cafe offers more than great coffee. Taking inspiration from Greek Cafe’s (Kafenio) for the name and the overall feel, Cafe Neon serves as a great place for any business meeting, or extended coffee break.  With tons of seating and a great lunch menu you can please your clients with just a coffee, or a lunch meeting.

What we recommend: Winter Salad Bowl (add the goat cheese and grilled chicken).

Click here for more on Cafe Neon.

 

5. Five Elements Espresso Bar | Yorkville  

Yorkville is a hub for great coffee but 5 Elements Espresso is our favourite.  A ton of comfortable seating to hold a meeting, spread over three levels. There are also a great selection of snacks, like protein balls or energy cookies to go with your warm drink, and lunch options.

What we recommend: Matcha Almond Cookie.

Click here for more on 5 Elements Espresso Bar.  

 

6. Quantum Coffee | Fashion District

This spacious and airy coffee shop on the corner of King and Spadina is a great option for business meetings. Though there’s minimal seating inside the cafe itself, if you walk towards the back it opens up into a larger room with tables and chairs. This area is open to the public during the day and is an event space at night.

What we recommend: Ethiopian Sidama Guji Pour Over Iced Coffee.

Click here for more on Quantum Coffee. 

 

Follow us on our social media accounts for more fun!

Twitter: @glo_comm

Facebook: @glocommunications

Instagram: @glo_comm

 

Happy sipping!

      – Team GLO

 

 

Get the Look | Met Gala 2017 Jewellery

By Dana Sondak

Hollywood’s most fashionable dressed to impress at the 2017 Met Gala held at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The theme being Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons, it was a feast for our eyes, as each celeb seemed to out-do the last. There was no shortage of over-the-top and outrageous fashion with jewellery being no exception. Some stars did the simple route, while others wowed in almost 200 carats of jewels. 

Want to get the look? We’ve found fabulous and affordable pieces that are still sure to make you feel as glitz and glam as the style icons themselves. 

Behati Prinsloo Levine 

Behati Prinsloo Levine stunned in her simple white gown paired with classic diamond chandelier earrings. This is the perfect pairing, a simple silhouette, with statement jewellery. Get a similar look with these gorgeous earrings from Studio1098. Classic, yet always a fashion statement. 

Candice Swanepoel 

Candice Swanepoel looks timeless and beautiful (as usual) in this black, strapless gown and simple and clean jewellery. She opted for dainty diamond rings and bracelets, like these rings from Studio1098. You can wear each ring alone, or stack them, to get hand candy drama while still being effortless and elegant. 

Hailey Baldwin

Hailey Baldwin went for full glamour, wearing a diamond bird cage, choker and earrings. The earrings and choker, both from Top Shop are great pieces, (at a great price) to get Baldwin’s look. Top Shop is a go-to for proving you don’t have to break the bank to look glamorous!

Blake Lively

The jewellery show-stopper was Blake Lively. Wearing close to 200 carats worth of Lorraine Schwartz jewels (estimated at 3.5 million dollars), looking as regal as it gets. Not all of us have millions to spend on jewellery, so here are some great dupes, for much less. These teardrop fringe earrings from Anthropologie, and blue and gold Ringly ring sold at Neiman Marcus are statement pieces that can amp up, or add a pop of colour to any outfit. The best part of the ring, is  you can connect it to your smart phone, sending you mobile alerts with a subtle vibrating, track your steps, and so much more! (How cool?!).

Show us your Met Gala inspired looks by tagging and following us on social media!

Twitter: @glo_comm

Facebook: @glocommunications

Instagram: @glo_comm

  – Team Glo 

Seven tips for applying to a PR internship

By: Leah Dermo

With the digital age evolving, the trend of cold calling and meeting your potential employer face-to-face has moved towards emailing, online career portals and resume websites. More people are applying for the same positions and employers are sifting through hundreds and sometimes thousands of applications. The fight to even gain the opportunity to shake hands with professionals in the industry have become close to impossible, especially with aspiring individuals fresh out of school.  The question remains, how can you be sure to secure an interview? We’ve compiled our top resume tips.  

White space

Less is more. Allowing white space in your resume is less overwhelming and far easier to read. It allows the reader’s eye to be guided throughout the page, which increases the chances of a potential employer to read through the entire page rather than just skimming a few lines.

 

Keep it relevant

Although you are proud of all of the work you have done nobody wants to flip through multiple pages. While it’s definitely important to include relevant volunteer experience, keep in mind this should not exceed the length of your work experience.
As a PR communications professional, getting your point across as clearly and concisely, is the goal. Use short sentences, bullet points and do your best to condense your resume to one page to ensure you keep the attention of your potential employer.

Social media

Most employers will Google search any promising applicants, which is why more people are including their social media handles to make the search a little bit easier. If you chose to include your social media links, be sure your accounts are not private, otherwise, this step is irrelevant.

Formatting

Send as a PDF!

This is a simple, yet critical step that is often overlooked. The proper format to send a resume online. A Microsoft Word or Pages document may not open properly on someone else’s computer or it may open with a completely different layout, design or font. To ensure that your potential employer is viewing your resume properly, send it as a PDF no matter what.

Save as…

Keep in mind whatever you save your document as, this is how it will show up in your email. Employers don’t want to know it’s your fifth draft or that you’re applying to multiple places by calling your resume “ResumeGLO” or “ResumeEatonCentre”. Try to keep it simple and easy for anyone to find, with your name and the position you are applying for (as some organizations may be hiring for multiple positions), like “BillSmithPRInternResume”.

Remember, just like when working in the world of PR, all documents and attachments should be client ready, and your resume and cover letter should be no different.

 

The email

As any professional applying to a job, you are essentially pitching yourself and why you’re a good fit with a company. Make sure the subject line and email is attention grabbing and showcases who you are through your writing style and your overall understanding of the company. Never underestimate your subject line as this is considered your first impression. Is the company you’re applying to playful and fun or corporate and serious? Your subject line, email, resume and cover letter should all be consistent with not only you but also the company.

Photos

While some may feel adding a profile photo to a resume can boost its aesthetic, others will argue otherwise. Ultimately it comes down to your own judgement and what you think is best. If you do chose to include a photo, be sure that it’s professional, in high resolution, and don’t forget to say cheese!

Spell check

Although you’ve probably heard it countless times, we can’t stress this enough! Ensuring your resume and cover letter are error-free can make the difference between getting the job and missing it by a hair. It’s important to remember that although you’re likely great at proofreading, it can be difficult to edit and catch errors in your own work. Our suggestion is ask a friend, family member or colleague to take the time to carefully go through each line of your resume and cover letter for sentence structure, spelling and grammar mistakes. You’ll be surprised what you can miss after you’ve been looking at the same documents for a while.

What are some of your tips and tricks for guaranteeing an interview? We’d love to hear your thoughts 🙂

Good luck!

– TeamGLO

Tech Apps PR Pros Need To Know About

By: Elizabeth Voss

If anyone understands the importance of time management it’s a Public Relations professional. PR like many other professions are quickly jumping on the tech bandwagon for it’s innovative and time-saving benefits. Today there is virtually an app for every task you can imagine. Whether you are trying to quickly pitch a client to a major news source, plan a meeting, save a media clipping or simply just looking for a new contact the tech world has no shortage of tools for you to use. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite apps for your personal and professional life that work!

Slack

Slack is a business communicator for teams. The app is easy to install on android and Apple products and best yet it’s FREE! Create to-do lists and share them with team members, assign roles and easily call, email or text anyone on the team right from the app. The app also allows teams to integrate and edit documents in Google Drive, Dropbox Twitter and more.

Upitch

Upitch is an app designed to help Public Relations practitioners pitch ideas and stories to media. Easily upload a concise pitch through the desktop or mobile app and wait for the media to swipe right to open a chat between you and the journalist. Users can also browse through other pitches for a little inspiration.

Nuzzel

Every PR pro knows that keeping up to date with current events and trending topics can be a little overwhelming at times. Like Twitter’s “trending” section, Nuzzle allows users to get personalized news recommendations and top news stories shared by friends right to their phone. (This app is also free!)

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a holy grail app for all PR professionals. The app allows you to post informative content about the industry, search for job posting, connect with others in your field and grow your network on a virtual platform. LinkedIn is also great for keeping in touch with classmates and old co-workers without having to filter through the clutter that comes with Facebook.

 

CamScanner

We’ve all been task with sifting through the newspaper in search of a new contact, new product, or to collect a media clipping at least once in our careers, once you find what you were looking what do you do? CamScanner allows you to take a picture of the article or text and save it to your phone as a PDF. This is vital for PR professional as we can’t always be shuffling papers around with us. Once the PDF is saved you can easily send it in an email or text message right from your phone.   

What are your go-to apps? 

Share your thoughts!

@glo_comm

 

 

 

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85 King Street East
Suite 401
Toronto, ON
M5C 1G2

P: 416-892-4833
E: jessica@glocommunications.ca

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