THE CADILLAC OF FRAGRANCES

THE CADILLAC OF FRAGRANCES Words and pictures by Reed "The Traffic Guy" Berry Bright lights, limousines, celebrities...I love the excitement of a red carpet event. Tonight's event, however, is a little out of the ordinary. It is not for a Hollywood movie premiere, charity event, or gallery opening. I am at the Martin Automotive Group (yes, a car dealership) in West Los Angeles for the exclusive North American launch of Cadillac, the new fragrance for men. Cadillac is an American automotive icon so, needless to say, the fragrance that bears its name must be as bold and luxurious as the car itself. The fragrance is indeed masculine and sporty, with a hint of chamomile and clove. The aroma of grapefruit and cinnamon further enhance the crisp, fresh scent of this new fragrance.

Italia Ricci and Kevin Schmidt    The packaging is equally impressive. Conceived by Paris-based designer Pierre Eisenecker, the distinctive black box features the Cadillac wreath and crest. The fragrance comes in a stylish glass bottle with a metal cap that any man would proudly display atop his dresser among other fine fragrances. When it comes to fragrances, no one smells quite as nice as a Hollywood celebrity. No self-respecting 'star' would leave the house sans cologne, and this automotive dealership is beginning to smell a little like the fragrance counter at Macy's. Rather than an expose on the best and worst smelling celebrities here (we'll leave that to the gossip columns), I'll limit my comments to a description of stars who have taken time to attend this event. An interesting new cologne calls for a visit from 'The Most Interesting Man in the World'. Actor Jonathan Goldsmith is most famous for playing that character in a popular ad campaign for Dos Equis beer. If you prefer wine to beer, Lorenzo Lamas, co-star of the 80's winery-themed CBS series 'Falcon Crest', is here tonight along with his daughter Shayne. Shayne appeared and was chosen in Season 12 of 'The Bachelor' on ABC.

Shayne and Lorenzo Lamas    In keeping with tonight's automotive theme, Adrienne Janic, former co-host of TLC's automotive reality show 'Overhaulin' is on tonight's guest roster. Adrienne, a native of Whittier, California, also hosted "Hot Import Nights' on SPEED Channel. Adrienne admits that's she knows absolutely nothing about cars. I think her looks and personality may just make up for that. Who in this city doesn't love the World Champion Los Angeles Lakers? Lakers guard Jordan Farmar stopped by to see if the popularity of this new cologne will be a slam dunk. Actor and former 'American Gladiators' star Lee Reherman is making his way down the red carpet to mingle with fellow celebs and other invited guests. As for young celebrities on the way up in the biz, 22-year old Italia Ricci ('American Pie Presents Beta House', 'Aaron Stone') is joined on the red carpet by a younger man, 20-year old actor Kevin Schmidt. Kevin plays Noah Newman on 'The Young and the Restless'. He also acts in and produces the web series 'Poor Paul'. Inside, guests appear to be having a good time, enjoying conversation, tasty hors d'oeuvres and complimentary adult beverages. The star of tonight's event, however, is the new Cadillac fragrance, and it hasn't taken guests long to find the attractive product display. Everyone seems to be in agreement that the new fragrance is very appealing and certain to be quite popular.

Adrienne Janic    For more information: www.beautycontact.com