Written by: Ezzah Rafique Photo by: Elizabeth Hogue In the vast and ever-evolving realm of beauty, trends come and go with the swiftness of a TikTok video. From the clean girl to mob wife aesthetic, from glass skin to makeup you can sleep in, and from maximalist to minimalist— the beauty landscape is in a perpetual state of flux. Yet amidst this whirlwind of change, is there a method to deciphering the patterns and identifying trends that are constantly evolving? Elizabeth Hogue, global brand product management director with Estee Lauder, and Abby Hogue, freelance copywriter and art director, present the perfect breakdown on how to predict trends using trend cycles and proactive trend navigation. Trend cycles consist of five-step cycle, according to the Hogue sisters: 1. The Macro-event: a grand moment in time An example of a macro-event would be COVID-19 work-from-home. 2. The Micro-concept: cascading themes and results by the macro-event An example of a micro-concept within the beauty industry now is the “mob-wife” aesthetic hitting social media. According to The New York Times, “the mob wife look focuses on conspicuous signifiers of wealth.” This trend stemmed from pop culture moments in entertainment such as “The Sopranos” 25th anniversary. 3. Consumers react: users react to the trend These are when users jump on trends to create trending posts like following a challenge or a popular video. 4. Brands react: brands internally strategize on how to join the conversation Although this takes can often bring in the legal department, and lengthen the process in joining the trend, brands will jump on the TikTok trend bandwagon to reach the audience that best suits their customer demographic. 5. Brands go to market: new product with new advertising ‘Go-to-market campaigns’ are a perfect example of brands turning trends into campaigns from E.L.F Beauty to FENTY Beauty. PTN: Proactive Trend Navigation, according to the Hogue sisters: Within the “PTN” (proactive trend navigation) map, there are steps to analyze before jumping to conclusions on what trends are emerging. The macro-event results in micro-concepts and smaller, emerging trends and themes in the social sphere. Brands need to utilize this space where trends incubate to be able to identify tomorrow's trends. Once a trend is identified, brands can create “GTM” (go-to-market) campaigns or projects. Once a user reacts publicly to the presented GTM, a trend occurs. Trend Spotting in a Nutshell Trends are cyclical. Most trends do not last over 2 years, but when they appear, most tech-savvy brands will jump on them as soon as possible. “Like Glossier and Fenty Beauty, sometimes it takes a while for trends to catch up” Identifying Tomorrow’s Trends When looking at the proactive trend navigation map, the Hogue sisters point out three key predictions to keep an eye on when analyzing possible emerging trends. 1. Return to Work 2. Economic Instability & AI 3. Climate Awareness When looking at the ‘Return to Work’ prediction, the Hogue sisters predict an increase in commute time for workers, face-paced lifestyle changes, the aspect of working face-to-face with coworkers in person, and a change in lighting in most workspaces. With these predictions, they see the trends of perfume layering, pollution protecting ingredients, and ‘wellness’ blurring with beauty emerge. In terms of the prediction of ‘Economic Instability & AI,’ the Hogue sisters point out that themes of individualism and value based shoppers will influence ingredient-focused products and the emphasis on customizable products being on the rise for 2024. Lastly, the prediction for 2024 that the Hogue sisters mention within ‘climate awareness’ will create a rise in demand for refillable products, skincare ingredient checkers, and cleansing balms. Listen to their full discussion, here.

Written by: Ezzah Rafique When her stepfather was diagnosed with brain cancer, Kendra Scott’s life took an unexpected turn. Strapping into her entrepreneurial spirit at a young age, Scott launched her first business venture, The Hat Box, with dreams of building a multi-unit or billion-dollar brand. Despite her determination and passion, the business ultimately failed after five years. In a captivating session at South by Southwest (SXSW), Kendra Scott, the visionary founder, executive chairwoman, and chief creative officer of the eponymous jewelry and accessories brand, shared her remarkable entrepreneurial journey. From humble beginnings to building a billion-dollar brand, Scott's story is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the power of human connection in business. Kendra Scott's entrepreneurial spirit ignited at a young age, sparked by her early experiences working in fashion retail. Inspired by her fashion-director aunt, Scott discovered the transformative power of fashion and its ability to empower individuals. However, after the failure of The Hat Box, Scott faced a period of difficulty and self-doubt. Reflecting on this experience as her "masters in the School of Hard Knocks," Scott learned invaluable lessons in resilience and perseverance. She emphasizes the importance of embracing failure as a catalyst for growth and remaining committed to one's dreams despite challenges. Inspired by her stepfather's words to push through fear, she found the courage to embark on a new venture—creating her jewelry line, Kendra Scott Jewelry. Despite initial hesitations and fears of failure, Scott's unique designs and commitment to exceptional customer service set her apart in the competitive retail landscape. Scott began creating custom, handmade jewelry and selling to her friends and family before starting to sell to wholesale departments, like Nordstrom Rack. As her jewelry brand gained momentum, Scott recognized the importance of staying true to her unique identity as an entrepreneur. She differentiated herself in the market by providing affordable luxury jewelry that resonated with consumers. By focusing on semi-precious stones and having an interactive design element in all of her stores, Scott filled a gap in the market and cultivated a loyal customer base. Her business’ demographics were surrounding “customer types, not ages.” “When we need something we can’t find, finding the solution might be what others also want” – Kendra Scott on how creating a new design element to jewelry made her business grow and stand out. From listening to customers' needs by jumping on customer support calls to building a supportive network of believers, she highlights the transformative impact of genuine connections. Scott's commitment to giving back to the community further underscores her belief in the importance of fostering meaningful relationships in business and beyond. Scott showed a remarkable ability to adjust to shifting conditions and customer preferences as her business grew. She switched from a wholesale to a direct sales business model, embracing e-commerce and creating retail locations with creative ideas like the Color Bar, which offers personalized jewelry experiences. Scott has maintained her brand growth and innovation by remaining aware of consumer preferences and market trends. “Foster connection before transaction” – Kendra Scott on the element that helped her garner her clientele and create a loyal customer base. As an entrepreneur, Scott emphasizes the importance of her core values in terms of leading a global brand. The way she measures success comes from measuring how you can impact others. Scott's emphasis on exceptional customer service and creating products that resonate with consumers highlights the importance of prioritizing customer satisfaction and building meaningful relationships. Her relationship with her customers sets her apart from her competitors, making her highly focused on providing her best for those who believe in her mission. Scott's story encourages aspiring business owners to stick to their distinct vision, accept adversity as a necessary step on the path to success, and forge deep connections along the way—from overcoming failure to creating a billion-dollar brand. “Do what you can, when you can” - Kendra Scott describing her big core business value

Written by: Ezzah Rafique In today's rapidly evolving consumer landscape, the beauty industry stands at the forefront of a profound transformation. Since 2020, consumer expectations have undergone a seismic shift, demanding more than just products or services from brands. Moral and ethical considerations have become integral to brand perception, with inclusivity emerging as a cornerstone of consumer preference. Now more than ever, brands must transcend mere rhetoric and actively cultivate inclusive and authentic communities to thrive in this new paradigm. In the beauty sector, where brand loyalty can be fleeting and Gen Z consumers are quick to explore new avenues, understanding and engaging with diverse audiences is paramount. To navigate this terrain successfully, marketers and tech experts play a pivotal role in crafting strategies that resonate deeply with consumers, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. To navigate this terrain successfully, marketers and tech experts play a pivotal role in crafting strategies that resonate deeply with consumers, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. Our roster of speakers brings a wealth of experience and insights to the table: Ekta Chopra, Chief Digital Officer at e.l.f. Beauty, brings over two decades of technology experience, spearheading digital transformation initiatives crucial to fostering inclusivity. Judy Lee, Group Creative Director and Global Head of Brand Experiences at Pinterest, is a vocal advocate for inclusion and mentorship, championing diverse representation within the tech and advertising industries. Astha Malik, Chief Business Officer at Braze, leverages her extensive background in brand-building and revenue acceleration to drive inclusive marketing strategies that resonate with diverse audiences. Moderated by Emma Sandler, the panel featured Ekta Chopra, Chief Digital Officer for e.l.f. Beauty; Astha Malik, Chief Business Officer for Braze; and Judy Lee, Global Director of Experiential for Pinterest. Each speaker offered unique perspectives rooted in their roles and experiences within the beauty and technology sectors. Ekta Chopra emphasized e.l.f. Beauty's commitment to authenticity, stating, "Authenticity for e.l.f is in the DNA." She highlighted e.l.f. inclusive approach, catering to "every eye, lip, face, and skin concern," reflecting a genuine connection with their diverse community. Judy Lee echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Pinterest's dedication to inclusivity by ensuring representation across various dimensions. She stated, "It's really hard to be inspired if you don't feel included," emphasizing the platform's mission to inspire users from diverse backgrounds. Aastha Malik underscored the importance of leveraging data to understand and engage customers effectively. She emphasized Braze's role in helping brands collect first-party data and personalize experiences, stating, "Individualized personalization is possible only if you seek to understand each of your customers better." The discussion highlighted the significance of authenticity, alignment with values, and leveraging data-driven insights to drive engagement and foster inclusivity within beauty communities. Actor and Judy Lee shared impactful examples of campaigns and activations that resonated with diverse audiences, further illustrating the power of authenticity and representation in brand messaging. Ekta Chopra reflected on e.l.f. Beauty's campaign with Paralympic swimmer Anastasia Pagonis, emphasizing the importance of telling diverse stories. She stated, "It's about really going out there once again, really staying true to our purpose." Judy Lee shared insights from Pinterest's Manifesto Festival at Cannes, showcasing activations that celebrated diversity and empowered users to explore their identities. She highlighted initiatives such as a hair pattern search tool, demonstrating Pinterest's commitment to inclusivity both online and offline. Astha Malik emphasized Braze's role in enabling brands like e.l.f. Beauty to create personalized experiences at scale. She highlighted Braze's partnership in enhancing e.l.f. Beauty's loyalty program, emphasizing the importance of engaging customers beyond transactions. Overall, the panel emphasized that fostering inclusive beauty communities requires a holistic approach that integrates authenticity, data-driven insights, and meaningful storytelling. By understanding and embracing the diverse needs of their audience, brands can create transformative experiences that resonate deeply and drive long-term engagement and loyalty. Listen to the full panel, here.

Photos by: Ezzah Rafique Film Synopsis: He’s a stuntman, and like everyone in the stunt community, he gets blown up, shot, crashed, thrown through windows, and dropped from the highest of heights, all for our entertainment. And now, fresh off an almost career-ending accident, this working-class hero has to track down a missing movie star, solve a conspiracy, and try to win back the love of his life while still doing his day job. What could possibly go right? From real-life stuntman and director David Leitch, the blockbuster director of Bullet Train, Deadpool 2, Atomic Blonde, and Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw, and the producer of John Wick, Nobody, and Violent Night, comes his most personal film yet. A new hilarious, hard-driving, all-star apex-action thriller and love letter to action movies and the hard-working and under-appreciated crew of people who make them: The Fall Guy. Oscar® nominee Ryan Gosling (Barbie, La La Land, Drive) stars as Colt Seavers, a battle-scarred stuntman who, having left the business a year earlier to focus on both his physical and mental health, is drafted back into service when the star of a mega-budget studio movie—being directed by his ex, Jody Moreno, played by Golden Globe winner Emily Blunt (Oppenheimer, A Quiet Place films, Sicario)—goes missing. While the film’s ruthless producer (Emmy winner Hannah Waddingham; Ted Lasso), maneuvers to keep the disappearance of star Tom Ryder (Golden Globe winner Aaron Taylor-Johnson; Bullet Train) a secret from the studio and the media, Colt performs the film’s most outrageous stunts while trying (with limited success) to charm his way back into Jody’s good graces. But as the mystery around the missing star deepens, Colt will find himself ensnared in a sinister, criminal plot that will push him to the edge of a fall more dangerous than any stunt. Inspired by the hit 1980s TV series, The Fall Guy also stars Winston Duke (Black Panther franchise) and Academy Award® nominee Stephanie Hsu (Everything Everywhere All at Once). From a screenplay by Hobbs & Shaw screenwriter Drew Pearce, The Fall Guy is produced by Kelly McCormick (Bullet Train, Nobody, Atomic Blonde) and David Leitch for their company 87North, and by Ryan Gosling and by Guymon Casady (Game of Thrones, Steve Jobs and executive producer of the upcoming series Ripley) for Entertainment 360. The film is executive produced by Drew Pearce, Entertainment 360’s Geoff Shaevitz, and the creator of the original Fall Guy television series, Glen A. Larson.

Photos by: Ezzah Rafique Following his 11-year run with “CONAN" on TBS, solidifying his 28-year career as an award-winning late-night host and one of the longest tenures in late-night history, Conan O'Brien is returning to television! Join the beloved comedian as he talks about his new travel series CONAN O’BRIEN MUST GO. Fans in the room will witness never-before-seen footage of the four-episode series featuring O’Brien visiting new friends met through his podcast, "Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan," where he dives deep with listeners from across the country and the world. Produced by Conaco, CONAN O'BRIEN MUST GO is executive produced by O’Brien and Jeff Ross. Click here to see the event!

Photos by: Ezzah Rafique Movie Name: The Queen Of My Dreams Small synopsis: Azra, a Pakistani woman living in Toronto, is worlds apart from her conservative Muslim mother. When her father suddenly dies on a trip home to Pakistan, Azra finds herself on a Bollywood-inspired journey through memories, both real and imagined, from her mother's youth in Karachi to her own coming-of-age in rural Canada. Cast: Talent Confirmed Ali A. Kazmi (Cast), Marc Tetreault (Producer), Amrit Kaur (Cast), Andria Wilson Mirza (Producer), Fawzia Mirza (Director), Simone Smith (Editor), Ayana Manji (Cast), Alysha Brilla (Composer)

Photos by: Ezzah Rafique Virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality technologies are finding new ways to enhance our ability to perceive the world that surrounds us and are redefining how we experience the world. The projects presented in our XR Experience emphasize storytelling and art in the immersive world. The XR Experience Exhibition is presented by ASU MIX Center and the Herberger Institute. ASU is shaping the future creative workforce, offering transdisciplinary degrees in immersive media and extended reality arts—“XRts”— in Arizona and California. The Media and Immersive eXperience (MIX) Center is a world-class facility powered by cutting-edge technology—a hub for collaboration among creators, researchers, and worldbuilders. Worlds for Change, the ASU XRts worldbuilding contest celebrating the next generation of XR creators and their visions of the future, will award grand prize winners at SXSW 2024. Links: Exhibitors list: SXSW XR Exhibitions Floor: SXSW 2024 XR Floor

Photos by: Ezzah Rafique The Armadillo was an iconic 70’s music venue in Austin that hosted the world's greatest music acts from AC/DC to ZZ Top. Although the original venue closed, 50 years later the Armadillo rides again as the brand is being relaunched through multiple platforms, including a collaboration with Austin's Major League Soccer team Austin FC, a documentary film, music releases, and live events. Learn firsthand from the new Armadillo team how this relaunch came about, and get a sneak peek at the treasure trove of live footage from the Armadillo stage. Participants: Marcus Peterzell - CEO, Passion Point Collective Stephen Marshall - CMO, Armadillo World Megan Lindon - Senior Director, Brand & Merchandise, Austin FC Andy Langer - Host, Austin City Limits Radio

hotos by: Ezzah Rafique The two-day immersive experience hosted by The Arterie, a vibrant creative advertising agency led by women, provided an exclusive preview of Texasland USA alongside engaging panel discussions at SXSW Austin. Guests had the opportunity to learn more about The Arterie’s commitment to sustainable yet jaw-dropping art, as well as hear expert guidance from speakers such as AEB Founder Jennifer Hutchins and keynote speaker Zachary Levi. Additionally, Heather Page, Former Director of the Texas Film Commission, who is a board member of the International Cinematographers Guild, Association of Film Commissioners International, and Texas Motion Picture Alliance, as well as a member of the Austin Film Society and the Advisory Board of Women in Film & TV-Austin, shared insights. Mindy Raymond, former Executive Director of the Texas Motion Picture Alliance, President of New Republic Studios, Chair of the Board of Directors for Visit Bastrop (Texas), Producer of Feature Films, and Executive Producer of numerous television projects, also contributed meaningful discussions throughout the panel. Guests also enjoyed an Oscars watch party hosted by the Montana Film Commission and immersed themselves in the Jurassic World experience, featuring a special appearance by one of the exhibit’s baby dinosaurs.

March 1, 2024 The Lane Brothers are a rising sibling duo that has earned praise from Shawn Mendes, Boyz II Men, Meghan Trainor, Teddy Swims and many more for its youthful, retro-infused music that took off on TikTok last year. These pop-filled sounds are on full display on the duo’s new self-titled EP, out 2.23 via Big Yellow Dog Music. The entire EP was written by the Lane Brothers — Grayson and Garrett Lane, and my top recommendation is “Let It Ride.”  These songs are full of clever, cheeky pop culture references like Buc-ee’s-bought outfits on “Drip,” Bentley drives on “Let It Ride” and Miami tans on “Baddie.” The youthful energy beautifully compliments that maturity of the duo’s sonics which fuse Southern R&B with west coast bedroom pop and more creative blends. On the EP’s ballads “NOLA” and “To Be Yours,” the Lane Brothers show off a more intimate side of their songwriting that draw elements from a variety of artists ranging Russ to Harry Styles. Download / Stream: https://s.disco.ac/igettocbkins Tracklist: 1. “Drip” (Grayson Lane, Garrett Lane, Connor Thuotte, Autumn Buysse) Produced by Connor Thuotte 2. “Let It Ride” (Grayson Lane, Garrett Lane, Austin Bianco) Produced by Austin Bianco 3. “Infinite Love” (Grayson Lane, Garrett Lane, Justin Johnson, Tyler Dial) Produced by Fustin Fohnson 4. “NOLA” (Grayson Lane, Garrett Lane, Thomas Salter, Autumn Buysse) Produced by Tawgs 5. “To Be Yours” (Grayson Lane, Garrett Lane, Nathan Chapman) Produced by Grayson Lane 6. “Baddie” (Grayson Lane, Garrett Lane, Autumn Buysse, Justin Johnson) Produced by Fustin Fohnson and Connor Thuotte

Photographed & Written by: Orchee Sorker / February 28, 2024 Tell us about yourself. Hi, my name is Caroline Romano. I'm twenty-two, and I'm an artist in Nashville, Tennessee. I started coming to Nashville when I was thirteen to make music. My parents took me up here for an open mic night that I wanted to play, and I just fell in love with it since then. What inspired you to pursue a career in alt-rock music, and how has your musical journey evolved since you first started? I've always been  an angsty person, which sounds lame, but I am someone who is very serious and just has those emotions naturally. I didn't start off writing music like that cause when you're 13, you try to keep it pretty PG and pretty chill. As I've grown up and become more of myself,. I feel like the only authentic thing is that kind of music for me to make. I grew up listening to music in the alternative sphere. It's always what has inspired me. How has the Nashville music community impacted your music? What I love about Nashville is still at its heart, it's all about songwriting. It's all about storytelling. That's huge for me in my songwriting. I love stories. I love the lyrics. They're just my mini journals that I put into three minute pieces. I love how much I've been able to grow as a songwriter and a storyteller. The community here is really incredible, inviting, and welcoming. It's a constant creative environment. Your new single “Used by You” came out recently. What’s the story behind the song and its process? “Used by You” is definitely like the scariest song I've put out. I was terrified of being that vulnerable and there's not really like a redeeming aspect to the character arc of “Used by You”. It's about a situationship kind-of-thing where there's this guy who I knew didn't feel the same way I felt about him. He would lead me on enough to keep me in his life and to do things for him. I would because I wanted to be around him so much. I wrote that song with my two friends, Sam Varga and Caleb Oczkowski, thinking that no one would ever hear it because I was like “I just need to get this out”. I didn’t want anyone to hear this, but then I was playing it for some of my friends. They were like “this is really prominent in a lot of people's lives”. I came in with a line, “I'd rather be used by you, than you be someone I lose” into this session. I think we had almost a fully fleshed out demo within like two and a half hours. In situations where I know exactly what I want to say, it tends to go by pretty fast. You are going on your first tour. How do you feel? What is one thing you are bringing? I am so excited to go on tour. It's been something I've been wanting to do since I was literally a kid. I can't wait to play the music that I make live. For me, it’s a whole different world. I feel so much like myself on stage. It's when I truly feel out of body. I'm not trapped by my own insecurities and fears. One thing I'm going to bring on tour is definitely a digital camera and a Polaroid camera. I am big into capturing moments like that. I feel like if I wasn't doing music, I would want to do photography in some aspect. I have gotten a ton of pictures of my band from rehearsals and all that stuff. I'm constantly taking pictures. What is your favorite way to connect with your audience? My favorite way to connect with people is definitely playing live shows. There's something that can't be replicated in that face to face hearing, performing the music at the same time, and seeing people sing those words back to you and relate to it in real time. I love it. If you could say one thing to aspiring artists, what would it be? Whatever you're doing, whatever you're pursuing, whoever you are…I just think it's so important to believe that you're capable of everything you want to be. That's the only way it's going to happen. My mom always told me, “If you don't believe in yourself, no one else is going to.” If you walk into the room with that kind of confidence, it really opens doors for you. It's hard but practice makes perfect. That’s amazing! Thank you so much for giving your time! Thank you!

Written by: Joanne Haner / Photos by: Amaury Nessaibia / February 18, 2024 In her second Latin album and fourth studio album, ORQUÍDEAS, singer-songwriter Kali Uchis embraces her sensuality and Colombian roots to create a beautifully produced, no-skips piece. While many bilingual and English-speaking artists have tried their hand at the vast world of Latin genres, Uchis is one of the few who can effortlessly blend her sultry style with the Spanish language and music from across the Spanish diaspora. The three-time Grammy nominee won the 2022 Grammy award for Best Música Urbana Album for her previous Latin album, Sin Miedo (del Amor y Otros Demonios). With features from Rauw Alejandro, Peso Pluma and Karol G scattered across the album’s 14-song tracklist, she takes from well-known stars of the reggaeton genre to further build the passion inherent to her sound. Although still keeping true to her seductive, feminine sound, her previous Latin album was more bilingual than ORQUÍDEAS — where Uchis finds herself singing in solely Spanish for a majority of the album. As an English-speaking artist who has slowly moved into the Latin music space over the last three years, she has also paved the way for non-Latin listeners to get interested in a new genre. In the past, Uchis has spoken on her producing role in her projects. Knowing that she has a key role in producing her own music adds another level of authenticity and personality to her music. This hands-on approach to musicianship has likely also helped Uchis keep her unique sound consistent across her projects. Like her previous English and Spanish albums, ORQUÍDEAS is a tale of a femme fatale and her confidence. From the glittery soft sounds of “¿Cómo Asi?” which opens the album to the tango-inspired bolero pace of “Te Mata” and the bopping remix of her already popular single “No Hay Lay,” Uchis encapsulates all shades of the female baddie experience, owning her beauty and power every step of the way. Maybe it’s because of the seamlessly blended features and the unique voice of Mexican artist Peso Pluma, but ORQUÍDEAS fits perfectly with the Latin-American language experience. With the exception of “Te Mata,” most of the album has more of a reggaeton focus, but the final track to the album, “Dame Beso // Muévete,” is two separate songs that flow into each other. While “Dame Beso” focuses more on a salsa beat, “Muévete” utilizes a traditional merengue beat. Both sections of the song evoke a feeling of nostalgia that can only be described as the traditional house-cleaning music of an early Sunday morning in a Latino household. It’s the music our generation will be listening to when our grandkids find us sweeping the house during the early hours of the weekend. Throughout her career, Uchis has reclaimed what it means to be a confident and sexy Latina woman. As she paves the way for the next generation of Latinos to embrace their bilinguality and leads by example with her divine femininity, Uchis creates a well-rounded masterpiece of an album that leaves the listener wondering what comes next.

February 18, 2024 Nestled along the pristine shores of the Gulf Coast, Hangout Festival 2024 promises a musical journey like no other. As the countdown begins to this year's extravaganza, anticipation is reaching a fever pitch. With an electrifying lineup, breathtaking ocean views, and an array of experiences tailored to every music lover's desires, Hangout Festival beckons you to join the celebration of sound, sun, and sea. Unforgettable Performances Prepare to be swept away by an eclectic mix of musical talent spanning genres and generations. From chart-topping headliners to emerging artists poised to steal the spotlight, Hangout Festival curates an unforgettable lineup guaranteed to keep your feet moving and your heart pounding. Whether you're a fan of rock, pop, hip-hop, electronic, or indie, there's something for everyone to discover and dance to under the radiant Alabama sun. Ticket Options for Every Desire Hangout Festival offers a variety of ticket options designed to enhance your experience and ensure you make the most of this extraordinary weekend getaway. General Admission: Dive into the heart of the action with General Admission tickets, granting you access to multiple stages, immersive art installations, delicious food vendors, and the vibrant energy of fellow festival-goers. VIP Passes: Elevate your festival experience to unparalleled heights with VIP Passes. As a VIP, indulge in exclusive amenities and perks, including expedited entry, access to private viewing areas near the main stages, VIP lounges with premium bars, gourmet dining options, air-conditioned restroom facilities, and dedicated concierge service. Immerse yourself in luxury while enjoying the best views and comforts Hangout Festival has to offer. Super VIP: For those seeking the epitome of luxury and indulgence, Super VIP tickets provide an elite experience beyond compare. Enjoy all the benefits of VIP Passes, plus additional perks such as backstage access, artist meet-and-greets, golf cart transportation around the festival grounds, complimentary massages, and more. Treat yourself to the ultimate VIP experience and create memories that will last a lifetime. Why VIP? While General Admission offers an incredible festival experience, VIP status grants you unparalleled access and amenities that take your weekend to the next level. Imagine sipping cocktails in a private lounge, enjoying gourmet cuisine curated by renowned chefs, and watching your favorite artists perform from the best seats in the house. With VIP Passes, you're not just attending Hangout Festival – you're living it in style. Secure Your Spot in Paradise Don't miss your chance to be part of the magic at Hangout Festival 2024. Whether you opt for General Admission, VIP Passes, or the ultimate Super VIP experience, there's no better way to kick off the summer season than by soaking up the sun, surf, and sensational music at this iconic beachside celebration. Purchase your tickets now and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime at www.hangoutmusicfest.com.

Photos by: Dan Chung | February 3, 2024 | New York City, NY

Photography by: Stephanie Siau | Written by: Mackenzie Berger | February 14, 2024 Kenzie Cait, a Nashville-based and Buffalo-born singer-songwriter who has quickly grown to internet fame over the last few years, has evolved from her presence from a comedic content creator into a vulnerable artist who is making waves with music similar to Olivia Rodrigo and Taylor Swift. Kenzie's songs have a genuine and tender quality that prompts listeners to feel deeply understood, debuting songs like "Innocence," released in October 2023, encapsulating the raw emotions of a teenage girl navigating her first heartbreak. Transitioning to her single, "don't break my..." she embraced a more playful, flirtatious vibe, showcasing her versatility and ability to express various parts of her personality through music. She explores the complexity of human emotions, encouraging her audience to embrace their feelings fully and break free from societal expectations. She sat down with Hazze Media to share insight on these recent evolutions, her roots, and the transformative path that led her to where she is today. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of TikTok, Kenzie Cait found a global platform for her music. "My first viral TikTok was literally the day my school shut down." Initially recognized for humorous content, she explains “I had, I think, 15,000 followers before I ever posted a song that I wrote or sang a cover. People were like, ‘wait, you sing?’” She now has 115,000+ followers, continuing to use the platform as a means of connection with her audience. Cait’s move from Buffalo to Nashville, prompted by a desire to study music business at Belmont University, exposed her to different musical landscapes. When asked about the impact of her upbringing on her current style, Kenzie highlightedthe contrast between the fast-paced nature of Buffalo and the more laid-back vibe of Nashville. "Being from Buffalo, it's so different from how things are here in Nashville,” said Cait. “Up north, things are just generally more fast-paced. I have that inside of me, that anxious energy." Despite the hustle and bustle, her childhood was infused with love and music, courtesy of a family deeply connected to the art form. Her parents' love for music, particularly her mom's affinity for Janis Joplin and her dad's habit of dedicating songs to her, laid the foundation for Kenzie's own musical journey. She fondly recalls moments of her youth, stating “I just have such a significant childhood memory of my mom always singing Janis Joplin” and adds that “my dad loves music, too. He'd always put on a song. He'd be like, ‘this is for you.’” The turning point that gave her confidence in songwriting arrived during her senior year of high school. Cait states that she showed her family the emotionally charged song, "Stained Glass Windows," inspired by a family member's battle with cancer. “I wrote that song, I showed it to my mom and she was crying. My whole family loved it. I sang it at my theater recital.” The overwhelming positiveresponse from the audience affirmed her talent and fueled her passion for music. “I had so many parents and students tell me that was so good, you actually can write. I was like, Okay, wait. Maybe I can write a song. Maybe I could do this.” March holds special significance for Kenzie Cait as she prepares for her first headlining show at The End, a small-capacity Rock and Roll dive bar in Nashville hosting top artists like Cage the Elephant and The Flaming Lips since 1999. Excited about the opportunity to connect with her audience in person and finally connect with those who love her music beyond just through a screen. With an ever-expanding collection of unreleased music, she envisions a future brimming with new releases, eagerlyanticipating face-to-face interactions with her audience. Her songwriting process is an intimate journey, translatinggenuine experiences into melodic narratives. Kenzie states “anything that made me feel a lot, I would just write about.” As she continues evolving as an artist, her music serves as a testament to the complexity of being human. In a candid moment from the interview, Kenzie Cait reflects on her listeners stating "I hope my listeners take away that it's okay to be dramatic, and it's okay to be sensitive and emotional, but also be funny and fun and bubbly and uplifting." Embracing the multifaceted nature of human emotions, she emphasizes, "feel all your feelings, that's being human.” In 2024, Kenzie Cait looks forward to releasing more music, performing in new cities, and connecting with her audience on a deeper level. With each song and each performance, she reaffirms her commitment to authenticity and vulnerability, inviting listeners into her world.