In a tale reminiscent of a romantic sitcom, model Maia Cotton and Max Feldstein's relationship began in early 2019. Living in different but nearby neighborhoods in New York City, their paths crossed frequently after their respective roommates started dating. This serendipitous connection led to a blossoming romance that has since spanned continents and culminated in a fairytale wedding. The couple officially sealed their love with an engagement in New Zealand on New Year’s Day 2024, followed by a lavish wedding almost exactly one year later. Their story is not just about love but also about creating unforgettable experiences for their loved ones.
The Journey from New York to New Zealand
Maia Cotton and Max Feldstein first met in the vibrant streets of New York City during the early months of 2019. At the time, Maia was residing on the Lower East Side with her best friend Kendall, while Max lived in Soho with his friend Cully. As fate would have it, their roommates began dating, leading to more frequent encounters between Maia and Max. Soon, a friendship blossomed into something deeper. “It didn’t take long before we started dating,” Maia recalls fondly. “Max pursued me for a few months, and once we became a couple, we were inseparable.”
Their relationship reached a milestone on January 1, 2024, in the picturesque Bay of Islands, New Zealand, where Maia’s parents reside. Every summer, Maia returns to this idyllic location, and over the years, Max had joined her for these annual visits. On that particular New Year’s morning, Maia was reluctant to participate in their sunrise swim tradition, but Max insisted they head to the beach. Upon arriving at 5:45 AM, they were greeted by an enchanting scene—flowers, candles, and a carpet set up on the sand. It was there, under the soft glow of dawn, that Max proposed, marking the perfect start to 2024.
Exactly one year later, on January 2, 2025, the couple exchanged vows in Queenstown, New Zealand. The ceremony took place at a private villa with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Drift Bay. Guests traveled from all corners of the globe to witness this joyous occasion. To ensure everyone felt welcomed, Maia and Max prepared thoughtful gift bags upon arrival, including custom silk scarves that blended elements of New York and New Zealand, local wool throws, and essentials for enjoying their stay. The entire weekend was meticulously planned by Laice and Doug Bollen of Place of LB, who managed the event despite being based in Australia. The couple’s families played a crucial role, adding personal touches to make the event truly special.
The celebrations kicked off with a welcome party on New Year’s Eve at Amisfield Winery. A pink carpet adorned the staircase, contrasting beautifully with the chateau-like ambiance of the venue. The evening featured a Mexican-inspired menu crafted by chef Vaughan Mabee and lively music provided by DJ Rich Penny. The night was filled with laughter, dancing, and anticipation for the wedding day ahead.
From their meet-cute in New York to their dream wedding in New Zealand, Maia and Max’s story is a testament to the power of love and the importance of cherishing every moment with those who matter most. Their journey reminds us that sometimes, the most unexpected connections can lead to the most beautiful stories.
In recent years, discussions around female pleasure have become more prominent, reflecting a growing awareness and advocacy for honest communication in intimate relationships. However, this shift has also inadvertently created a new set of challenges. One significant issue that has emerged is the pressure on women to perform pleasure convincingly, even when they are not fully satisfied. This phenomenon is vividly portrayed in the film Babygirl, where Nicole Kidman's character, Romy, finds herself engaging in behaviors that highlight the disconnect between societal expectations and personal fulfillment.
The cultural landscape surrounding sexual satisfaction has evolved dramatically over the past few decades. In the 1980s, Meg Ryan's iconic scene in When Harry Met Sally solidified the notion that women might sometimes need to simulate pleasure to maintain harmony in heterosexual relationships. Fast forward to today, and there is an increasing emphasis on authenticity and open dialogue about desires. Yet, despite this progress, many women still feel compelled to fake orgasms, driven by a mix of social pressures and personal insecurities. Psychologist Barbara Santini points out that this behavior can stem from a desire to avoid uncomfortable situations or protect oneself from unwanted advances, leading to what she terms "orgasm performance anxiety."
Addressing these issues requires a nuanced understanding of the factors at play. The so-called "orgasm gap" highlights a significant disparity in sexual satisfaction between men and women in heterosexual relationships. Studies show that while the majority of men typically achieve climax during intercourse, fewer women report the same level of satisfaction. This discrepancy underscores the need for ongoing conversations about how couples can better support each other’s needs and work towards mutual fulfillment. By fostering environments where vulnerability and honesty are valued, we can move closer to creating more equitable and satisfying intimate experiences for all partners involved.
A balanced diet rich in protein is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. Essential for muscle development, hormone regulation, energy levels, and cardiovascular health, protein plays a pivotal role in our daily nutrition. However, determining whether we are consuming enough can be challenging. According to Lisa McDowell, a registered dietitian nutritionist with expertise in sports and longevity, achieving the recommended 30 grams of protein per meal is vital for most adults. This guideline may vary slightly for pregnant women or individuals over 50, but it serves as a solid foundation for optimal health.
To simplify the process of measuring protein intake, McDowell offers a practical approach that works both at home and when dining out. She suggests visualizing the portion size of protein on your plate as being approximately the size of your hand. This easy-to-follow method helps ensure you are getting close to the desired 30 grams per meal. Additionally, eggs, which are packed with nutrients and high in protein, can contribute significantly to this goal. For those relying on eggs as a protein source, McDowell advises consuming at least four to meet the target amount.
Maintaining an adequate protein intake is not just about meeting numbers; it's about fostering a healthier lifestyle. By adopting simple strategies like using visual cues and choosing nutrient-dense foods, we can enhance our dietary habits and promote long-term wellness. Embracing these practices empowers us to take control of our health and enjoy the benefits of a well-rounded, protein-rich diet.