 By: Bennie Randall - Editor In Chief - Vonoi Magazine Vonoi Magazine: What inspired you to start Pretty Well Beauty? Jazmin Alvarez: I started Pretty Well Beauty back in 2019 because I noticed a huge gap in the market. The largest group of beauty consumers was being ignored, especially within the rapidly growing niche of clean beauty. I wanted to create a space that not only celebrated these brands but also placed them front and center — not tucked away somewhere to be discovered by accident. My vision was to build a beautiful space where their stories could be told and their products could truly shine. Vonoi: Your store features a variety of brands. What’s the story behind that? Jazmin Alvarez: Pretty Well Beauty doesn’t have its own brand line — it’s a retail concept that houses multiple clean beauty brands. We currently feature around 60 different brands, each carefully selected based on our very high standards. Every product must meet our strict clean criteria. A great formula, story, or sustainable packaging isn’t enough. If a product contains even one questionable ingredient, it doesn’t make it into the store. We’re completely uncompromising about that. Vonoi: So every product in your store is tested by you personally? Jazmin Alvarez: Absolutely. Every single product goes through a testing process with me. I try everything myself because it’s important that it actually works. There are so many products out there that promise the world but don’t deliver results. For me, it’s not enough for something to smell nice or feel luxurious — it has to do what it says it will do. Vonoi: You’re clearly setting a high standard for the brands you showcase. Where do you see Pretty Well Beauty in the next five years? Jazmin Alvarez: In five years, I’d love to see us expand to one or two more locations and have a full team, because right now it’s just me. I’ve been bootstrapping everything, so the next step will be raising capital to reach that next milestone. I also want to create our own in-house brand, specifically in the body care category — one of our fastest-growing areas and one that still has a lot of white space.  Vonoi: That makes perfect sense. You’ve already set the bar for other brands — it’s only right to create your own. Jazmin Alvarez: Exactly. As the CEO, I talk to customers every day, so I hear what they love, what they struggle with, and what’s missing from the market. That insight gives me the ability to create something meaningful — something that truly fills a gap. Vonoi: For readers who want to learn more, where can they find you? Jazmin Alvarez: Our website is PrettyWellBeauty.com, and we’re also active on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Pinterest under @PrettyWellBeauty. Vonoi: Before we wrap up, what’s one piece of wisdom you’d share about beauty? Jazmin Alvarez: Beauty is an inside job. You can have all the products in the world, but if you’re not taking care of what’s happening inside, you’ll just be covering things up. What we see on our skin is often a reflection of what’s happening in our gut — they share the same microbiome. That’s why we also have a wellness section in the store to support that connection. But it also goes deeper — beauty is about who you are as a person. If you have a good heart and pure intentions, that radiates outward.   Photo: Honorable Mention, Poppy the PWB greeter Vonoi: That’s powerful. When did this dream begin inside you?
Jazmin Alvarez: The seed was planted around 2016. I walked into a clean beauty store with a similar concept, but I didn’t feel welcomed. I wasn’t their target audience, and it showed. After a few visits, I realized I could create something similar — but in a more authentic and inclusive way. Pretty Well Beauty actually started as an Instagram page where I shared my passion for clean beauty. That page grew into an e-commerce store and eventually into this physical retail space. I didn’t plan for it to become a business — it evolved naturally from something I loved. Vonoi: Any final words? Jazmin Alvarez: Come visit us! If you want to discover amazing brands created by incredible people who look like you, come through. There’s something special here for everyone. Vonoi Magazine www.Vonoimag.com
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 By Bennie Randall - Editor In Chief - Vonoi Magazine In a world where pop culture increasingly drives commerce, anime is no longer just entertainment—it's a powerful brand strategy. Once considered niche or underground, anime has now become a global juggernaut, generating billions in revenue and influencing everything from fashion to tech. But what’s truly fascinating is how a new wave of entrepreneurs is using anime to grow their businesses, build loyal audiences, and disrupt industries in fresh, imaginative ways. The anime industry—valued at over $26 billion—has outgrown its “cartoon” label to become a cultural movement. With passionate, worldwide fans spanning all ages, entrepreneurs are tapping into anime’s emotional power, vibrant aesthetics, and deep storytelling to create stronger brand connections and drive consumer behavior. One of the most common ways entrepreneurs incorporate anime into their business is through visual branding. From anime-inspired logos and packaging to full-on character mascots, business owners are using anime aesthetics to stand out in crowded markets. Take clothing lines, for example. Independent fashion brands are integrating anime-style art into streetwear drops, leveraging the built-in fanbase of shows like Naruto, Dragon Ball, and My Hero Academia. These pieces are often limited edition and heavily promoted on Instagram and TikTok, generating buzz, scarcity, and instant sales. Even beauty entrepreneurs are designing product lines around anime characters or magical girl themes—using vibrant palettes and kawaii packaging to create Instagrammable, collectible experiences that customers love to share.  Entrepreneurs also recognize anime’s storytelling genius. Instead of dry ads, many are creating content—Reels, YouTube videos, TikToks—infused with anime themes, tropes, and even custom characters. They use these formats to promote everything from coaching programs to tech platforms.
For instance, a business coach might use an anime alter ego to narrate their journey as the "main character" of their brand—battling self-doubt, unlocking new levels (program modules), and achieving the final boss battle (launching their product). This creative storytelling draws fans in emotionally, creating a deeper connection than traditional sales tactics ever could. Many small business owners and creators are turning to anime conventions as strategic marketing platforms. Whether as vendors, panelists, or sponsors, entrepreneurs are showing up at cons to reach highly targeted audiences. At events like Anime Expo, Otakon, or DreamCon, you'll now find everything from anime-themed candle brands and skincare lines to SaaS startups with anime-inspired UI. These spaces offer massive foot traffic, niche exposure, and invaluable in-person engagement. More importantly, entrepreneurs who show up authentically in these spaces win loyalty fast—because fans respect creators who respect the culture. Beyond marketing, some entrepreneurs are going a step further—creating original anime-style content and IP to generate long-term revenue. Artists, designers, and writers are producing indie anime series, webcomics, and manga, then monetizing through Patreon, Kickstarter, or merchandise. Others are collaborating with existing anime brands through licensing deals to release co-branded products. These types of partnerships give small businesses instant credibility and access to built-in fanbases willing to spend big on official collectibles. Perhaps the greatest benefit of using anime in business is its emotional resonance. Anime fans are loyal, expressive, and deeply connected to the stories and characters they love. By weaving anime into their messaging, entrepreneurs are not just selling products—they’re inviting customers into a shared universe. This emotional loyalty translates into repeat buyers, word-of-mouth marketing, and long-term community building—the holy grail of any modern business. In today’s market, attention is currency—and anime is one of the most valuable cultural assets an entrepreneur can leverage. Whether you're building a brand, telling a story, or launching a product, anime offers a toolkit of creativity, emotion, and community that’s hard to ignore. As more founders embrace the power of fandom, one thing is clear: anime isn't just for fans anymore—it's a full-blown business strategy. Vonoi Magazine  By Bennie Randall for Vonoi Magazine Winning in business in 2025 isn’t about chasing the latest trend or trying to outshine your competition—it’s about clarity, discipline, and execution. The business world is evolving fast, but the fundamentals remain the same: those who commit, adapt, and execute will dominate.
Too many people want the title of “entrepreneur” without embracing the responsibility. Success isn’t measured by social media posts, it’s measured by building something that lasts. If you want to separate yourself from the noise in 2025, here’s how you win Speed + Precision = PowerBusiness is moving at the speed of technology. The winners in 2025 aren’t the ones who take months to decide—they’re the ones who move fast, test ideas, and pivot when necessary. But remember, speed without precision creates chaos. You must move quickly, but with focus and strategy. Action step: Stop overthinking. Test your next idea in 6 days, not 6 months. Relationships Are the Real Currency AI, apps, and algorithms can’t replace human connection. Relationships remain the most valuable asset in business. Who trusts you? Who respects you? Who will pick up the phone when you call? If your network isn’t strong, your foundation is weak. Action step: Strengthen your relationships by adding value, not asking for favors. Master the Art of Attention Attention is the new gold in 2025. You can have the best product in the world, but if no one knows about it, you don’t exist. Winning means mastering attention—through storytelling, branding, and consistent visibility. Action step: Audit your online presence. Does it demand attention or does it disappear in the scroll? Build Systems, Not StressHustle may get you started, but it won’t sustain you. Systems are the bridge between small wins and long-term wealth. Automate, delegate, and streamline so you can scale without burning out. Action step: Identify one repetitive task in your business and either automate it or outsource it this week. Bet on Yourself, Every TimeThe most important investment you’ll ever make is in yourself. The market can change, investors can back out, and partners can walk away, but you are the constant. Your mindset, education, health, and skills will carry you through. Action step: Set aside a budget in 2025 for personal growth—mentorship, training, or wellness. Winning is a Choice Winning in business in 2025 isn’t about luck or connections—it’s about execution and consistency. Every day you have a choice: play the game at the highest level, or sit on the sidelines watching others win. This year, choose to win. Bennie Randall Jr. - Business Advisor - www.BennieRandall.com  By: Bennie Randall for Vonoi Magazine In today’s fast-paced, digital-first business world, where and how you receive your mail matters more than ever. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, online business owner, or small company scaling fast, having a professional, secure, and reliable mail solution is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. That’s where NYMail.com steps in as a game-changer. For over 30 years, they have been the gold standard in mail services for startups, creators, consultants, freelancers, and established businesses alike. And here's why more entrepreneurs are choosing them every single day. A Prestigious Manhattan Business AddressFirst impressions still matter — especially in business. You instantly gain a real New York City street address (not a P.O. box) right in Manhattan, which can elevate the professionalism of your brand. Whether you’re a coach, content creator, or ecommerce store owner, using a NYC business address can:
 Running your business while traveling or working remotely? Makes sure your important mail never gets lost or delayed. You can choose from in-person pickup, scanning, or forwarding to any global location. Whether it’s a government letter, legal notice, check, or contract — you’ll know exactly what arrives and when. Plus, their team personally handles your mail with care, unlike the faceless national chains. If you work from home but want to keep your residential address private, that gives you the separation and professionalism you need. It’s perfect for:
 In an age of identity theft, spam, and sketchy package deliveries, protecting your business (and yourself) is non-negotiable. Using your home address on your website or business registration exposes you to privacy risks. With NYMail, you can safely separate your personal life from your professional presence. And because it’s a physical address (not a virtual-only mailbox), it’s accepted by:
Unlike short-term mailbox companies or pop-up services, NYMail has been around since 1985 — helping thousands of businesses grow, scale, and operate with confidence. They’re locally owned, deeply experienced, and highly rated by entrepreneurs across industries. You’re not just renting a mailbox — you’re gaining a business partner that understands how entrepreneurs operate.  Every Serious Business Needs a Serious Mail Solution. Whether you're a one-person show or building a growing brand, where your mail lives says a lot about your business. Don't settle for generic P.O. boxes, complicated mail forwarding, or risking your home address online. With NYMail.com, you get: ✔️ A real NYC address ✔️ Professional presentation ✔️ Flexible mail handling ✔️ Rock-solid security ✔️ Entrepreneur-friendly pricing Because in business, details matter — and NYMail helps you look and operate like the success you're building.  Vonoi Magazine
By: Kevin Garrett for Vonoi Magazine  In the city that never sleeps, coffee isn’t just a beverage — it’s a ritual, a lifestyle, and sometimes a survival tool. Manhattan offers no shortage of cafés, coffee counters, and hole-in-the-wall gems. But when you're seeking more than just caffeine — something memorable, something bold, something New York — you need the real spots locals actually swear by. Whether you're closing a deal in Midtown, writing your next masterpiece in SoHo, or people-watching in the Village, here's your definitive guide to four of the best coffee spots in Manhattan — plus the mushroom-infused brew that’s quietly becoming the city’s favorite.  Urban Vegan Kitchen – Muse Mushroom Coffee - 265 W 23rd St, If you're searching for coffee with a kick and a mission, Urban Vegan Kitchen delivers — and its star attraction is the now-famous Muse Mushroom Coffee. Crafted with functional mushrooms, adaptogens, and high-quality espresso, Muse isn't your average cup of joe. It’s the kind of drink that gives you sustained energy, a clear head, and none of the usual crash. What sets it apart?
“Muse makes me feel sharper, not just wired,” says local author Tasha Reynolds. “It’s coffee for creatives.” In a city fueled by hustle, Muse Mushroom Coffee has become the go-to brew for those who want to thrive, not just survive.  Birch Coffee - Multiple Locations (Flatiron, Upper West Side, SoHo) Birch is the kind of café that blends classic charm with indie edge. Known for its smooth, nutty drip coffees and excellent cold brew, Birch also has something most Manhattan coffee spots don’t: cozy, book-lined seating areas perfect for deep work or casual conversation. Their ethically sourced beans and barista expertise make it a favorite for professionals on the go and creative souls looking for a breather. The vibe is part café, part sanctuary — and it’s all Manhattan. What to try: The Kyoto-style cold brew or their signature “Birch Blend” for a rich, balanced pick-me-up.  Stumptown Coffee Roasters – West Village - (30 W 8th St) Originally from Portland, Stumptown has made a strong impression in New York with its bold, expertly roasted beans and minimalist aesthetic. The West Village outpost is stylish, sleek, and serious about coffee. Whether you’re grabbing a fast espresso or sipping a single-origin pour-over, Stumptown is for coffee lovers who appreciate artistry in every cup. The staff knows their beans, and the energy inside feels like a curated playlist — chill but charged. What to try: Their Hair Bender espresso blend or any limited-batch cold brew.  Devoción – Flatiron - 25 E 20th St, Flatiron If atmosphere matters, Devoción wins hands down. With its jungle-like interior, golden lighting, and Colombian direct-sourced beans roasted right in NYC, this place is part café, part sensory escape. Their coffee is incredibly fresh — often roasted just days after harvesting in Colombia, thanks to a unique logistics model. Every sip feels vibrant, floral, and layered. It’s where entrepreneurs brainstorm, dates begin, and tourists become regulars. What to try: Cascara fizz or the signature Devoción espresso.  Final Sip: Why Muse Is More Than Just a Trend
Back at Urban Vegan Kitchen, Muse Mushroom Coffee has become a quiet movement — the drink of choice for health-conscious creatives, mindful professionals, and anyone tired of the caffeine crash. It doesn’t just fuel your day — it supports your brain, your gut, and your focus. That’s the kind of coffee New Yorkers are asking for in 2025. In a city overflowing with options, Muse stands out — not just for how it tastes, but how it makes you feel. So whether you’re team espresso, pour-over, or adaptogenic brew, Manhattan has something for every palette. But when you’re ready to try something that fuels your mind as much as your hustle — order the Muse. You’ll taste the difference. You’ll feel the upgrade. Anime Is the New Gold: Why Attention Is Currency and Anime Is a Cultural Asset of the Future7/1/2025  By Bennie Randall - Editor In Chief - Vonoi Magazine In a world driven by clicks, shares, and scrolls, attention has become the most valuable currency of the digital age. Today’s brands, influencers, and entrepreneurs aren’t just competing for sales—they’re competing for seconds of your attention. And in this fierce battle for the human gaze, anime has emerged as one of the most powerful cultural assets on the planet. Anime isn’t just “animated entertainment” anymore. It’s a global phenomenon, an emotional language, and for many, a lifestyle. The success of billion-dollar franchises like Dragon Ball, Attack on Titan, and One Piece proves that anime is no longer a subculture—it’s a mainstream powerhouse with the ability to drive trends, command loyalty, and influence consumer behavior at scale. So why is anime so effective at capturing attention—and why are the smartest brands and entrepreneurs rushing to leverage its power? Every platform—from YouTube and TikTok to Netflix and Spotify—is fighting to hold your attention. The average person is exposed to over 10,000 brand messages a day, and most of them go unnoticed. But anime cuts through the noise. Its striking visuals, intense emotion, and rich storytelling keep people watching longer, engaging deeper, and buying into the universe being built. In marketing, that kind of captivation is priceless. Brands that hold attention can build loyalty. Loyalty builds trust. And trust leads to sales—again and again. Anime doesn’t just grab attention—it earns it. It makes viewers feel something. Whether it’s the journey of Naruto chasing his dreams, Goku fighting for his loved ones, or Tanjiro protecting his sister, anime is full of relatable emotion wrapped in unforgettable visuals. That combination is a blueprint for how modern brands should communicate. What makes anime a true cultural asset is the loyalty it inspires. Anime fans aren’t passive—they’re active. They cosplay, create fan art, run YouTube breakdowns, and buy limited-edition merch in minutes. They wear the identity. They live the language. This is the core of what experts call the fandom economy: people who don’t just consume content—they become emotionally invested in it. And emotional investment is the gateway to lifetime value. For businesses, this means that when you tap into anime culture with authenticity and respect, you gain access to a highly engaged, extremely loyal audience that spreads your message for free. That’s influence that money can’t buy—but attention can earn.   Anime has done what few entertainment formats have achieved: it’s become globally relevant without losing cultural identity. From Tokyo to Toronto, Lagos to London, anime’s themes of friendship, struggle, love, and perseverance resonate with universal truths. In an age where global connection matters more than ever, anime becomes not just art—but a bridge.
And because anime speaks to values as much as it does visuals, it helps brands express identity. It lets them be bold, emotional, even rebellious—without saying a word. That’s why fashion houses, gaming companies, record labels, and even financial tech startups are now infusing anime aesthetics and storytelling into their campaigns. Anime doesn’t just decorate the brand. It becomes part of the brand’s DNA. The success of anime doesn’t just stop at content—it extends to commerce. From licensed merchandise and streaming deals to virtual characters and NFT collectibles, anime is a blueprint for how to turn attention into ownership. Creators are now launching their own anime-inspired IPs, characters, and web series—then building communities around them through Discord, Patreon, and limited-run drops. These business models aren't just about selling—they're about inviting fans to co-own the culture. And in a creator economy where community matters more than advertising, anime’s built-in emotional ecosystem is an asset with endless upside. We live in an era where attention dictates influence—and influence dictates value. In this landscape, anime has become a key that unlocks all three. It grabs attention, builds emotional bonds, and drives massive engagement across demographics, industries, and geographies. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, marketer, or media brand, anime is more than a style—it’s a strategy. And those who learn how to harness its power won’t just win attention. They’ll own culture. Vonoi Magazine  Streamer University is a live, in-person creator academy. More than 150 up-and-coming streamers were selected from over a million applicants to attend. Travel, food, and lodging are completely covered, and the weekend will be packed with sessions that teach creators how to grow their platforms and turn content into a career. Cenat made it clear from the jump. “…No matter if you’re big or small, you can stream the entire weekend,” he stated via Complex. The goal wasn’t to impress gatekeepers. It was to build community and give fundamental tools to people trying to break into the content game. For those who have been watching Cenat for a while, you know this move fits. According to The Economic Times, Cenat started popping up at several college campuses without warning, bringing fans and cameras with him and causing a social media frenzy about what he was offering. Akron was one of those stops. The energy on campus was wild. Students crowded around him, clips started trending, and the idea for something more structured started to form.  What started as viral chaos quickly became a blueprint. Akron turned into the home base for a new kind of learning experience. This isn’t about textbooks or midterms. Streamer University focuses on four key areas: content creation, audience growth, monetization, and streaming tools. However, Complex further notes that the session names are far from traditional.
Instead of using traditional professors, Cenat is tapping some of the biggest internet names to lead workshops. He is bringing in Duke Dennis to teach Physical Education, DDG to lead a session on Internet Beef 101, and ImDontai to guide students through Defense Against Hating. Other instructors include cookingwithkya, India Love, and Funny Marco. Cenat himself is walking participants through building his platform from scratch. The 2025 Streamer University class had range. According to Complex, names like Ayemariiii, Keeyahthecreator, Deshae Frost, and Maleni (from Chicklet & Maleni) made the cut. Some were already making waves online, and others were just getting started. But everyone showed uo to learn, collaborate, and get better. The application process was so intense that the website crashed shortly after it opened. That didn’t stop Cenat from reviewing submissions and personally selecting the creators who would attend. Streamer University isn’t just a cool moment on social media. It’s a step toward reshaping what the creator economy can look like. The Economic Times further highlighted Cenat’s approach, proving you don’t need a huge production budget or a studio to build something powerful. You need a plan, a platform, and people who believe in the vision. Streamer University has reminded everyone that success doesn’t have to be lonely in an industry that can feel like a solo grind. Sometimes, all it takes is a camera, a campus, and a community. Vonoi Magazine Beard Octane was first conceived in 2017, by a man known to the world as Joe. Joe had long sought the perfect beard care product that would properly nourish his beard, fueling it like a high performance machine. Often finding that the big box store products simply fell short of accomplishing this, along with have unhealthy fillers. So Joe does what Joe always does and became obsessed with creating the best beard care product possible. A product that actually does what it is supposed to do; nourish and improve a man's beard. This is when the late nights, long hours, and personal sacrifices began in the developing the greatest beard care company known to the world today, Beard Octane. Vonoimag.com
 Written By: Bennie Randall for Vonoi Magazine Opening a coffee shop in New York City (NYC) is an exciting venture that combines passion for coffee with the dynamic energy of one of the world's most vibrant cities. However, navigating the complexities of starting a small business in NYC requires careful planning, adherence to regulations, and strategic execution. This guide outlines the essential steps to help you establish a successful coffee shop in NYC in 2025. A well-crafted business plan serves as the foundation of your coffee shop. It should include. Define the unique selling proposition (USP) of your coffee shop. Will it focus on specialty brews, artisanal pastries, or a cultural ambiance? For instance, Café Rue Dix in Brooklyn offers a Senegalese market experience, combining a café with a boutique selling imported goods from Senegal. Research the local coffee scene to identify your target audience and assess competition. Estimate startup costs, operating expenses, and projected revenues. Outline how you plan to attract and retain customers.  Determine the total investment required and explore financing options such as personal savings, loans, or investors. Startup costs can vary widely; for example, a small coffee shop with sit-down service may require between $80,000 to $300,000. Selecting a strategic location is crucial to your coffee shop's success. Consider factors such as foot traffic, visibility, and proximity to complementary businesses. Each borough in NYC offers unique opportunities, so align your location choice with your target demographic. Decide on a legal structure for your business (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC) and register it with the New York State Department. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes. Compliance with local regulations is essential. Key licenses and permits include. Register your business with the city to obtain a business tax certificate. Ensures your premises meet building codes and are zoned for a coffee shop. Required for businesses preparing and serving food. All employees handling food must obtain this certification within 30 days of employment. Allows you to collect sales tax on taxable goods and services.  Create an inviting and functional layout that enhances customer experience and operational efficiency. Consider seating arrangements, workflow for staff, and aesthetic elements that reflect your brand.
Invest in reliable equipment such as espresso machines, grinders, and brewing tools. Establish relationships with reputable coffee bean suppliers, preferably local roasters, to ensure freshness and support local businesses. Recruit staff who are passionate about coffee and customer service. Provide comprehensive training to ensure consistency in product quality and service standards. Create a user-friendly website and engage with customers on social media platforms. Collaborate with nearby businesses for cross-promotions Host events or workshops to foster community ties. Incorporate sustainable practices such as using eco-friendly packaging, sourcing ethically produced coffee beans, and implementing waste reduction measures. Be aware of potential challenges such as high operational costs and competition. For example, Buddies Coffee in Brooklyn faced rent hikes and competition but garnered community support to sustain their business. Host a grand opening to introduce your coffee shop to the community. Gather customer feedback and be prepared to adapt and innovate to meet evolving customer preferences. Starting a small coffee shop in NYC in 2025 requires meticulous planning, adherence to regulations, and a passion for delivering exceptional coffee experiences. By following these steps and remaining adaptable, you can establish a thriving coffee shop in the bustling landscape of New York City. Vonoi Magazine |
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