Last Updated on March 18, 2025 by Erin Donahue

Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing Yon-Ka Paris’ press event about their new product launch at the Moxy East Village Hotel in New York City. Working with beauty brands is one of my favorite partnerships as a photographer and content creator because no detail is spared, and they always give away freebies! The event was hosted in the luxurious atmosphere of the hotel’s restaurant, Cathédrale.

Photographing A Press Event

Yon-Ka Paris, a phyto-aromatic skincare brand, is known for its French-made, plant cell active-based skincare rituals that offer scientifically proven efficacy and pure wellness. The product that was introduced to all the PR girlies in attendance at the breakfast was the brand’s Vital Defense Multi-Protection Mist. According to their website, it’s “formulated with 99% natural ingredients and boosted by Green Sciences, this phyto-aromatic formula protects your skin from environmental aggressors like pollution and UV light.”

Candid Event Photography

As I photographed the event, it was a delight to capture the stunning breakfast spread and informative presentation by the National Director of Education, Katherine Tomasso, and Marie-Laure Fournier educating all the beauty journalists on the new products.

Hilariously, Marie-Laure sprayed the mist on everyone as a demonstration, but the one thing I kept thinking about was they should have been more conscious of the enviornment. It’s 2023, why are brands still making aerosol sprays? Nonetheless, it made for a great photo. I couldn’t resist capturing the misty cloud against the chic decor.

About the Venue

Finally, The launch was held at the Moxy East Village hotel, which pays homage to the neighborhood’s history of rock n’ roll, and American counterculture.

The hotel’s four new restaurants overseen by Tao Group include Cathédrale, a French-Mediterranean restaurant from Chef Jason Hall, Little Sister, Alphabet Bar & Café d’Avignon Popup at Alphabet Café in the lobby, and The Ready, an all-season rooftop bar.

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