Gentleman Norman was featured in Riviera’s April 2013 Magazine!

San Diego’s A-list pup, Gentleman Norman, made his debut at the New York Pet Fashion Show, and Shooter Michael Nagle was there to capture it. “It’s a spectacular concoction of both fashion and dogs. It’s sort of the unofficial start to the Westminister Kennel Club Dog Show, where dogs and their owners get dressed up with a theme in mind,” says Nagle. This year’s theme was Roaring 20′s. “I was taking a picture of a woman dressed as a flapper and the 10th-generation descendant of Lassie when I saw Gentleman Norman out of the corner of my eye,” says Nagle. “He curiously tugged on his leash on the red carpet as he pranced on by.” Gentleman Norman is a fixture of the San Diego scene. Last year, he launched his coffee table book, “How To Be A Man,” and made personal appearances at Neiman Marcus Fashion Valley and Beverly Hills. He resides with his owner, Laura Martella (legs shown here). “Gentleman Norman is a known leg man,” laughed Martella.

- Gillian Flynn (pg. 23 of the Riviera Magazine April 2013)

Gentleman Norman goes back to New York!

This time it is for the New York Pet Fashion Show. This is a pre-Westminster party and fashion show to benefit the New York City shelter animals.

Norman will be appearing with Diamonds In The Ruff Ruff, a unique pet jewelry designer located in New York. They have custom designed an exclusive Swarovski Crystal Pet Necklace for Gentleman Norman and he will be showing off his new bling on the runway!

For more details on the Fashion Show event, please visit the Appearances page!

As a respectable gentleman, I would like to share some Valentine’s Day secrets with you. Valentine’s Day is a holiday that recognizes the special bond you share with your lady. That being said, dedicate this day to making your woman feel special. Good old-fashion manners will get you far. Put down your electronics, set aside work, and plan something romantic. Whether you plan a romantic getaway or take her to a romantic dinner, she will appreciate it. Look your woman in the eyes and tell her she is beautiful.

Since a young age, a woman dreams of finding her prince charming. A prince charming courts his lady, and you should as well. Book a reservation at her favorite restaurant weeks or even months in advance. Then, when you show up to the door in your finest attire, surprise her with her favorite flowers instead of red roses. This shows that you remember the little things and are not so predictable. Gentlemen, I would like to lend you a thoughtful paw. If you really want to impress your lady, have her fill out Norman’s Guide to Stay Out Of The Doghouse. This way you will know exactly what she loves.

Now, let’s talk about the Valentine’s Day gift. One tip that I have learned in my twelve years of life experience is if you are serious about her, you are going to need a good jeweler.  If you’ve already been following my tips, then you probably already have a jeweler on speed dial. Most of all, remember it is the little things that matter the most. Your woman fell in love with you, so write her a handwritten card reminding her of how much you care for her. She will appreciate this small gesture. For more relationship and manner tips, check out my book, Gentleman Norman: How to be a Man.

GENTLEMAN NORMAN SHOWS CEDROS AVENUE WHAT WOMEN REALLY WANT IN FEBRUARY!

Stay out of the doghouse with celebrity dog, Gentleman Norman, as he makes an appearance at Circa on Cedros in Solana Beach, Calif.

KUSI will be there early in the morning to capture Norman’s tips for the month of love and to showcase Circa’s new jewelry collection and Muttropolis’ new heart-themed outfits for dogs!
Watch KUSI News Channel 9 at 6:15am and 6:45 to catch Gentleman Norman!

Where: Circa on Cedros
143 S. Cedros Ave. Ste H
Solana Beach, Calif. 92075

When: Saturday, February 2, 2013 from 1-3p.m.

Celebrity dog, Gentleman Norman, who has taught San Diego’s finest “How to Be a Man™” with his book on grooming, wardrobe and manners, brings Cedros Avenue in Solana Beach, Calif. some insight on what women really want from their loved ones. On February 2 from 1-3p.m., Gentleman Norman, a well-dressed Pomeranian who has been featured on Good Morning America, will make an appearance at the jewelry and home decor boutique, Circa on Cedros. He will provide a book signing (pawtograph) and meet and greet, while Circa on Cedros showcases its newest collection of locally designed jewelry.

Gentleman Norman, a well-mannered dog, will show men the key to staying out of the doghouse and kicking off the month of love in style. Attendees will be given the opportunity to preview spring pieces and take home gift bags from various shops along Cedros Avenue, including Circa on Cedros, Cedros Soles, Solana Wellness Center, and Muttropolis. Bring your camera and your questions…it’s time to take some notes, gentlemen!

“Cedros Avenue is a pet friendly area and the perfect destination, approved by Gentleman Norman, for finding unique, classy gifts for your loved ones.” says Laura Martella, author of the tongue-and-cheek book, Gentleman Norman: How to be a Man. “Nothing lasts longer than the memory of a well-thought-out gift.”

Gift bags will be provided for the first 50 guests to attend, and light bites and drinks will also be provided. Proceeds from the book sales will go to Alzheimer’s Association San Diego and their Imperial Chapter.

Watch the video below of Gentleman Norman spreading his support for the Alzheimer’s Association in New York City!

Gentleman Norman knows that popping collars is passé, but the sophistication of a Polo shirt never goes out of style.

“Meet Gentleman Norman” – a true “Paw Star” on PawNation.com!
(By Kelli Bender – December 7, 2012)

Gentleman Norman’s name tells you all you need to know. This tiny pooch is a class act. With adorable looks to rival Boo and an attitude that is quickly gaining admirers, Norman is becoming the next big little dog star. To help out his human fans, Gentleman Norman has published “Gentleman Norman: How To Be A Man”—full of helpful tips that have guided him through his glamourous life. He was kind enough to offer us a look at some of his classy advice. It’s something every gentleman-in-training should see. 

Click Here to see the PawNation Slideshow of Gentleman Norman!

Also, Gentleman Norman was featured on PawNation.com’s “Paw Stars” along with others in the “15 Posh Paw Stars in Clothes” album! (By Kelli Bender on Jan 14, 2013)

The New York Observer

“To Do Saturday: Dog Days of Winter” By Daniel D’Addario

Tomorrow I depart for New York City, where I will be staying at one of my favorite hotels in the world, the Hôtel Plaza Athénée. I kept a diary during my last trip to New York, and now I would like to share with my friends and fans my experience at this magnificent hotel, in the breathtaking city of New York…

As a seasoned traveler, I have certain expectations when I reach a new destination; my recent visit to the Hôtel Plaza Athénée in NYC exceeded all of my wishes. Upon arrival I was greeted by the people in reception as if I were an old friend. Although I customarily am a man who likes to fly beneath the radar, I did enjoy the attention we received. Being my first time back in the city as a published author, I knew that the next few days would be hectic. Having our every need anticipated and met was a wonderful surprise.

The next few days were a whirlwind tour, with stops being made at Good Morning America and various press junkets. Time in the limelight can make for a weary traveler, but walking back into the lobby was a lovely reprieve from the city’s fast pace. On a quiet residential street between Madison and Park, the Plaza Athénée is a peaceful oasis amid the city’s buzz. And the rooms! Calcutta marble, double sink vanities and every amenity that could ever be offered to the canine species- plush dog beds, organic treats, hemp bone toys, stainless steel bowls along with unmentionables like #2 pick up bags. Speaking of which, did I mention the close proximity to Central Park for doing “business?”

Gentleman Norman made his appearance on Good Day Sacramento! Watch the video below to see how Norman has swept ladies and gentleman up in the San Francisco and Sacramento area!

With the holidays upon us, I’ve been spending time in nostalgic reflection on all of the blessings 2012 has brought to me. This time last year we were approaching the first Christmas without my mom; my dad had died ten months before her and I decided to channel my sadness into something positive. I had this idea to create a photography-based coffee table book about how Norman was the perfect man.  As vulnerable as I was feeling about the loss of my mother, I somehow had enough courage to listen to this soft but strong voice saying, “Try it.” Of course looking back I had no idea what I was getting into. It’s a good thing because I probably would have been too intimidated.

 In deciding on a theme location, it was a given that we would shoot at the Fairmont hotel. My husband Michael and I have celebrated Thanksgiving there for the last 6 years, and it means so much to me to have this tradition as our way of kicking off the holiday season. Each year the Fairmont outdoes themselves with a

ribbon cutting ceremony for their life sized gingerbread house, topped off with Santa Claus coming in to delight the children.

I will never forget what it felt like to hear Nat King Cole singing Christmas carols for the first time without having my sweet mother here. The last years of my parent’s life (my dad was 92, she was 72) they would sit and hold hands and listen to Nat King Cole. It nearly killed me to hear the Christmas carols but fortunately I couldn’t fall apart. Norman and I had a photo shoot! I had hired a photographer and had a shooting schedule coordinated with the PR director of the hotel. Norman has always been treated like a VIP at the Fairmont but there was even more attention because everyone knew about his upcoming photo shoot.

I had contacted the marketing director of Gump’s to see if I could use their shopping bags in one of the vignettes. After a couple of questions, she did agree but I felt a little embarrassed and I’m quite certain she thought I was crazy. I was intimidated walking into Gump’s to meet the marketing director, Carmen, for the first time to pick up the bags, but the minute she saw Norman it was all good. The thing about Norman is he opens doors and hearts wherever we go. After the first 15 minutes of meeting with us we were discussing a book signing. Before I knew it we were talking with John the GM who offered the store for any part of our shoot.

We are so grateful for our relationship with Gump’s and the Fairmont San Francisco. There is no place more iconic than the Fairmont or Gump’s when it comes to San Francisco tradition and history.

That was last Thanksgiving and looking back I can’t believe how far we’ve come. These memories I have made with Norman while working and traveling together are priceless. I didn’t have a plan- I just knew that Norman is amazing. I have always loved the effect he has on people. It’s always been a little dream of mine to find a way to share him with the world. It was also a given that I would donate part of the proceeds to the Alzheimer’s association in San Diego.

So this Thanksgiving I’m going back to the Fairmont and kicking off the holiday season with a full heart. All of this is in honor if my mom and dad, Richard and Patricia Zweig and also for my biological father Bill Desmond who is the primary caregiver to his wife Jeanie, suffering with Alzheimer’s for over five years now.

What a difference a year has made. I’m listening to my gut, growing a pair if you-know-whats, laughing and crying along the way and I am proud. I am the co author of How To Be A Man. I have developed the Gentleman Norman brand. I know exactly who Gentleman Norman is and who he isn’t.

He has gone from being my best friend, to coauthor and media mogul (have you Googled him lately?) He has over 4000 Twitter followers, we’ve made an appearance on GMA. He is on the COVER of Gump’s Holiday 2012 catalog. He will be in the display window of Gump’s on Black Friday and he will be pawtographing his book at the Fairmont on Saturday November 23rd for their annual holiday party and ribbon cutting ceremony.

To wrap this all up in the most meaningful way we now have the support of the LA and the NYC chapter of the Alzheimer’s association.

When I started this, I never dreamed that I would be working with such amazing people. This year when we hear Christmas carols for the first time I can look up in
the sky and smile. I know my parents are proud. I thank everyone who has helped us and encouraged us along the way. Most of all, I thank my little man Gentleman Norman…