The first annual Gurus 2024 Awards dazzled Los Angeles with a glamorous event hosted by Gurus Magazine at the luxurious SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills. The evening, spearheaded by founder and publisher Derek Warburton and executive producer Rachel Wilson, honored pioneers reshaping beauty and wellness by embracing transparency, passion, and purpose.
A Star-Studded Affair
The red carpet was alive with excitement as a diverse roster of honorees and attendees arrived at the black-on-black step-and-repeat, embodying what it means to be a modern-day “guru.” The guest list included celebrated names like Niecy Nash-Betts and her wife Jessica Betts, Cynthia Bailey (Real Housewives of Atlanta), Katie Ginella and her daughter Kai (Real Housewives of Orange County), Princess Märtha Louise of Norway and her husband Shaman Durek Verrett, Shanola Hampton (NBC’s Found), Lisa Vidal (Being Mary Jane), and Mary and Romain Bonnet (Selling Sunset).
From wellness advocates to entertainment and fashion icons, the event was a convergence of talent, vision, and creativity.
Parisian Elegance Meets Hollywood Glam
Guests were transported into a Parisian-inspired wonderland reminiscent of Emily in Paris. The setting featured custom installations and interactive experiences that reflected the event’s themes of authenticity and innovation:
•Lauren Falcione’s The Blonde Italian installation celebrated culinary artistry.
•Freshy Shoes, founded by Scott Willman, showcased live painting by artist Joey DeRuy.
•Deborah Sawaf’s The Power of Words installation encouraged meaningful reflection on language and expression.
•The Alexis Project, led by Billy Ray Brewton, highlighted diversity, equity, and inclusion in health.
Guests indulged in a decadent Parisian street scene, complete with a bouquet boutique by Marley Majcher (The Party Goddess), a patisserie by Bottega Louie, and a luxurious open bar featuring Bentley of Beverly Hills, Golden Eagle Vodka, and Filmcraft Studio Gear. Award-winning photographer Josh Fogel also curated a Luxury in Style photo studio, offering attendees stunning keepsakes of the evening.
Honoring Trailblazers
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of awards recognizing innovators across beauty, wellness, and entrepreneurship. Notable honorees included:
•Jennifer Howell (The Art of Elysium), recipient of the Humanitarian Visionary Award, presented by Shanola Hampton.
•Princess Märtha Louise of Norway and Shaman Durek Verrett, honored with the Equality Award by Niecy Nash-Betts and Jessica Betts.
•Nancy Davis, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by Lisa Vidal.
•Dr. Michael Newman, awarded Innovation in Surgery for his groundbreaking “Forever Breast” procedure, presented by Cynthia Bailey.
•Dr. Sandra Lee (Dr. Pimple Popper), who was recognized as Social Media Star of the Year with a video acceptance.
The evening celebrated diverse contributions, from Lauren Falcione as Culinary Entrepreneur of the Year, to Josh Fogel, honored with the Lens of Inclusion Award for his work as a photographer.
A Grand Finale
As the evening concluded, attendees departed with curated gift bags filled with luxury products from top brands, including Grande Lash Cosmetics, Kevin Murphy, Peter Thomas Roth, Purlisse, and The Blonde Italian aprons, among others. These thoughtful touches encapsulated the spirit of elegance and authenticity that defined the Gurus 2024 Awards.
A New Tradition of Excellence
The Gurus 2024 Awards set a new benchmark for celebrating beauty, wellness, and purposeful living. From its dazzling Parisian ambiance to the heartfelt tributes to industry leaders, the event was a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and community.
A special thank you was extended to Rachel Wilson, Kent Burns, and Marley Majcher for their contributions to this groundbreaking evening. The Gurus 2024 Awards not only celebrated exceptional achievements but also left an indelible mark on Los Angeles’ social calendar.
Here’s to a future where passion and purpose continue to guide the way.
