Big Texas Experience

After traveling to Texas for many years on a monthly, sometimes weekly, basis I finally visited Austin for the first time. I have predominantly spent most of my time on business trips to the Dallas and Houston areas. However, thanks to the hostess with the mostess, Carolyn, I was able to experience Austin with great gusto! She planned the perfect balance between great food, sightseeing, shopping, and downtime. Although, maybe there was too much food...I gained 2 pounds but it was TOTALLY worth it!

The weekend was capped off with a fabulous Saturday afternoon with Silky and Pamela while enjoying the lakeside view. The weather was absolutely amazing and the company was even better! Between Silky, Pam, Carolyn, and I...we just might take over the world. Or at least a small picnic table in Austin.

The only complaint that I have about the entire weekend is that Carolyn refused to let me take Lola, the wonder dog, back home with me. Seriously...what is up with that?

Diet 101: Play

This week's chapter in The Joy Diet online book club is focused on play but not the fun type of play where you run to the playground and swing. It is about playing the game of life in a joyful manner.

The best question from the chapter, from my perspective was, "Does the game you are playing serve your real life?" One could easily replace game with life, playing with living, and real life with true purpose, to re-formulate the question into

"Is the life that you are living serve your true purpose?"

When you wake-up every morning, are intentionally choosing thoughts, feelings, emotions, and actions that support your goal and mission in life? Or maybe you need to step back and identify your goal and mission in life first and then begin to evaluate whether or not you are living it everyday. Either way, the chapter on "play" is an important step in finding happiness in life. In fact, the exercises listed are similar ones that I routinely encourage my career coaching clients to complete.

But on a lighter note, I also believe that "play," within its traditional context, is also important to a joyful life. While the author did not explore this aspect of joy, it is important to address. We must have balance amongst our busy lives by incorporating plenty of play time.

In the spirit of my weekly lists, I give you my favorite playtime activities:

~ Gymnastics

~ Swimming and water sports

~ Walking barefoot in the grass or beach

~ Swinging at the playground

~ Ice skating and sledding

~ Coloring with crayons...I love the smell of my Crayola's

~ Hip Hop Yoga

~ All Halloween festivities

~ Flying a kite

~ Playing with my nephew and niece

~ Laughing

~ I still love working on my copy of "Wreck This Journal"

~ Racking the autumn leaves and jumping into the pile

~ Making and eating smores

~ Playing "catch" with my dog

~ Getting dressed-up for no reason

Just When...

Just when the catepillar

thought the world

was over,

it became a

Butterfly

-Proverb

Positivity & BIG INTENTIONS Under the Full Moon

For this month's dreamboard exercise hosted by Jamie Ridler, I decided to change things up a bit.

First, after spending a couple of months working with Pam Robinson to learn EFT (emotional freedom technique), I find myself releasing old "negative stuff" and carefully selecting only the positive to fill my mind, body, and soul. It is quite an interesting transformation that I HIGHLY recommend for everyone to experience. Pam is awesome!

Therefore, my dreamboard for this month is focused on positivity...attaining, maintaining, and accentuating.

But my full moon activities do not end with a mere dreamboard. I was inspired by Silky Hart's blog to create a box that I could fill with my dreams. She had mentioned in a recent post that she had taken a picture of a house that she wanted, sent her intention into the universe, and then placed the image in her Magical Creation Box. Fast forward several years and she is now living in that house.

I loved the idea so much that I decided to create my own Magical Creation Box. I took an old Tea Forte box and used a wood burner to carve images into the sides, top, bottom, outside, and inside. I then painted it with acrylics to add a splash of color. As I was enjoying my full moon meditation, I set not only my dreamboard intentions out into the universe but I also filled my Magical Creation Box (AKA Dream Box) with images and words from magazines that represent my long-term intentions (1 to 3 years)...to finish my PhD within the next three years, to move back to D.C. full-time, to find the perfect job in D.C. that applies my PhD, to find a house in D.C. that is affordable and filled with love, and to find my knight in shining armor who is going to sweep me off of my feet and is going to live happily ever after with me in D.C. Yeah, I know...not a small order to send out to the universe but I am optimistic! In fact, I believe that my dreamboard and Magical Creation Box intentions are already in full swing and are waiting for me to collect in 1-3 years. : )

I love Silky's quote on the topic of the Magical Creation Box, “The Universe knows the bigger picture. I’m going to let it deal with the timing of this. Meanwhile, I’ll just do everything I can to keep moving happily along.”

Spotlight On: Deidrea Haysel

Name of Business: Hot Mama Gowns

Type of Business: Hot Mama Gowns are the “Hot Mama” alternative to the generic hospital gown™. Style meets function in the labor and delivery room.

Web Site: http://hotmamagowns.com/

Email: Info@HotMamaGowns.com

Twitter: http://twitter.com/HotMamaGowns

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HotMamaGowns


Why did you decide to start this type of business?

Minutes after the birth of our daughter, Naomi in 2006, I had the idea for the gowns. I had an unmedicated labor and delivery so when they presented me with that precious baby I was super aware of myself, my surroundings and namely the itchy, smelly, faded, used hospital gown I was wearing. To think I had just spent nine months growing this perfect human for the doctor to just lay her on my chest on this chemical smelling faded hospital gown.

She wanted to nurse immediately and I had to literally remove my entire arm from the gown leaving my entire side and half of my other breast exposed. When friends and family came to visit, it became more difficult. I was learning how to nurse, she was learning how to feed, and we were both frustrated trying to get it right. Add to that my eager family and friends wanting to see our precious baby with me being almost fully exposed. It was not a pretty site for anyone.

What makes your business unique?

I feel Hot Mama Gowns are unique in several ways. We only use 100% organic cotton fabrics that are dyed using only vegetable or low impact dyes. We only manufacture in the United States! Also, our gowns are actually sized, so they are not a one-time deal; they fit you when you have a pregnant belly; then the sides cinch in and the gown transforms into nursing pajamas! I am also very proud that our sizes fit just about every size Mommy and bump sizes XS-XXL (2-24). Also, our customer service sets us apart. I pride myself on outstanding customer service which means whether you call, fax, or email us, you will get a response within hours, and we understand “rush”! Dealing with pregnant women, time is of the essence, so we do everything in our power to expedite every order and get it to that Mommy in waiting as fast as possible! Another unique aspect of Hot Mama Gowns is the idea of the gowns as a gift. They make wonderful baby shower gifts because it’s a gift especially for the Mom; something to make her feel special and something she can feel good in.

Can you share with us the challenges that you have encountered related to starting a business?

Finding the right vendors, money and time were all challenges. Finding the right vendors is key especially for me, as I am one of those people who prefer a relationship, as opposed to a “contact.” When I add people to my team, they have to be rockstars with passion. They have to be vested in me, my business, and really want us to succeed.

Money, well, that might go without saying. The funniest thing I kept coming up against when I first started the business and was looking for funding was dealing with the banks. The lenders at the bank kept asking me the same, strange, question “Don’t you have family money” or “Isn’t there a way you can borrow this money from your family and friends?" Seriously, why do you think I’m here, I wasn’t born with a silver spoon in my mouth and my parents have instilled in me a terrific work ethic, so, my answer to them was “No, I do not come from money, and even if I did I would not ask for it, I would rather earn it; albeit through blood, sweat and tears!”

And lastly, time, and I don’t mean to ruin the surprise, but there is never enough time. With my husband working a full-time job, me working a full-time job, and two kids, there iss just not enough time to build the business. But I am happy to report I have found the answer, it’s called caffeine!

How did you overcome these challenges?

I am happy to report that time is a beautiful thing; as more time went by I got better at choosing the right vendors who were the best fit for me and the business, and slowly but surely we actually paid off the business so we were able to meet our breakeven point (which is crazy because it’s only been about a year and half that we’ve sold product). I try to be the best wife, best mother, best daughter, best sister, etc, all while keeping the laundry done, house clean, flowers planted, and as I complete this interview it’s now 1:30AM, so I haven’t quite figured out the time thing, but I am happy to accept suggestions!

What has been your biggest success thus far?

Being able to finally offer our gowns wholesale. In the beginning they were so expensive to manufacture, and I knew it would take time to get my costs down so I was okay eating a lot of the profit but retailers were not as hungry to eat the profit as I was. So, the day I could finally go to my manufacturer and place an order large enough that drastically reduced my manufacturing costs, that was my biggest success because it has opened so many doors. Boutiques are now able to offer Hot Mama Gowns to their customers.

What is your favorite free business resource?

Currently, I’m really into http://retailminded.com/blog/
It’s a great resource and knowledge base for retailers, wholesalers, representatives, showrooms to understand how they all fit together. Being new to the industry it was a great resource for me to understand basic terminology/jargon that was new to me from a simple term like “line sheet” to what do you need in your “Press Kit.” It is updated frequently and I love reading past posts as well as current articles.

What words of advice would you provide to others who are considering starting a business?

Do it!! You only live once, so live out your dream. It is so incredibly rewarding owning your own business and being in control of its future. Be prepared to spend more money than you wanted or expected, be prepared for it to take more time to get up and running than you expected, and be prepared for it to be more rewarding than you expected!

Do you have any special offers for those reading this interview?

For those who took a little time to get to know me and Hot Mama Gowns, please use code “pink” in the coupon box for 15% off your entire order. Coupon will expire on February 28, 2010.


Do you have a small business idea that you want to get "Up & Running?" Pink Heels has a variety of services and resources available for all stages of business development and sustainability. Check out all of your coaching and consulting options HERE and all of your e-book options HERE!

Would you like to be considered for an upcoming "Spotlight On" post? If you have a web site and a business Up & Running story, please email Jennifer Moore at Jennifer@Pink-Heels.com. You can be located anywhere in the world as we are creating a global network of fabulous women!

Diet 101: Treats

It is ironic that this week's chapter in The Joy Diet book club is focused on treats. Afterall, Halloween is the perfect time of year to focus on this subject!

In the spirit of the book club and in light of Halloween, I shall list my favorite treats that put a huge smile on my face.

Oh, how I love the following treats:

~ Random acts of kindness.

~ Laughing until my stomach hurts.

~ An unexpected email filled with kind and loving words.

~ Playing with dirt in my garden and walking barefoot in the grass.

~ Finding a great bargain on an outfit/shoes/purse that is "totally me."

~ Tokens of love.

~ Listening to a new cd that speaks to my current mood and emotions.

~ Filling the bath tub up with bubbles and then jumping in.

~ Receiving an unexpected and thoughtful gift.

~ Feeling and knowing that I am loved.

~ Listening to my dog snore while she is cuddled up next to me.

~ Taking a moment at a local playground to swing; allowing my feet to reach the sky and my hair to go wild.

~ Enjoying a great glass of wine while enjoying the company of a friend(s).

~ Silence.

~ A random road trip that leads to somewhere new and undiscovered.

~ Meeting a new kindred spirit.

~ Eating delicious food that makes my mouth go crazy in pure delight.

~ Receiving and giving hugs.

~ Accomplishing my goals.

~ Floating in the middle of the lake while looking up at the sky and watching the clouds pass by.

~ The absence of technology.

~ Spending time with family and/or friends.

~ Puppy kisses.

~ Taking a vacation that allows me to soak up the culture.

~ Discovering something new about myself.

~ The moment that I realize, "I did it!"

Happy Halloween!

The Road Less Traveled

May the road

rise to meet you,

may the wind

always be at your back,

may the sun

shine warm upon your face,

may the rains

fall softly upon your fields

(Irish Blessing)

Upcoming Changes for Pink Heels

While enjoying a wonderful trip back home to D.C., I had many business meetings sprinkled in the mix of personal time. One of those meetings was a very productive discussion that resulted in Pink Heels securing a 5-year corporate contract. I am incredibly excited about this next big step for Pink Heels.

As part of the agreement, Pink Heels will be responsible for providing services and products to its corporate office employees and its applicable clients. Due to the expected demands associated with this new adventure, many upcoming changes will occur including those associated with this blog. Additionally, to avoid any potential or actual conflicts of interest, Pink Heels will no longer be accepting new clients after January 1, 2010. Only existing and former clients along with the employees and clients associated with this corporate contract will have access. The only exception will be the selected participants of the Up & Running Small Business grant. However, while this grant opportunity has traditionally been offered three times a year, it will become an annual opportunity starting in 2010.

I will keep you posted on all of the changes as more details unfold.

Spotlight On: Sara Avant Stover

Name of Business: The Way of the Happy Woman™
Type of Business: Yoga, Meditation, and Life Balance for Women
Web Site: http://www.TheWayoftheHappyWoman.com
Email: sara@thewayofthehappywoman.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/WayofHappyWoman

Tell us more about your woman-owned business.

I help modern women who are struggling with claiming success AND
their femininity by teaching them how to retrieve personal happiness—
beyond their body size, relationships, and careers. I show women how to connect with their inner radiance through yoga, meditation, and balanced living through the workshops, retreats, and trainings that I teach around the world, as well as through the articles that I write for magazines and The Huffington Post. I’m also working on a book called The Way of the Happy Woman™ that compiles all of these teachings.


Why did you decide to start this type of business?

My path has been an evolution—and my inner and outer worlds have developed simultaneously. In 1999 I was about to graduate from Barnard College in New York City. As an African Studies major, I had my heart set on serving in the Peace Corps in West Africa in the realm of health education. Unfortunately (or fortunately!) I went in for a routine check-up at the gynecologist to clear the final screening process for this post. During that visit I learned that I had advanced stages of pre-cancerous cells on my cervix—a condition that would prevent me from going to Africa. Needless to say, I was crushed.

It was a huge wake up call—because although I was practicing yoga, exercising, and eating well at the time, I was also burning the candle at both ends. Working three jobs, having a full course load!

Serendipitously, a few weeks after my diagnosis, I got a job offer to teach at an international school in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I found out that I could get the healthcare that I needed there, so I packed my bags and went. And, in many ways, that’s when my life really began…as I lived there from 1999-2008 (and I moved to Boulder, Colorado after that, where I now live).

I started studying Traditional Chinese Medicine, Buddhist Meditation, Ayurveda (the healing tradition of India), and my devotion to Yoga deepened tremendously. I learned how to slow down, take care of myself, and listen to my inner wisdom. With these tools, I had more courage and support to also tackle some of my deeper, underlying grievances such as anorexia, bulimia, anxiety, and depression. In Thailand I started to taste who I really am, beneath and beyond all of my foibles. And, best of all, I started to taste my essence of pure, unconditional happiness.

Can you share with us the challenges that you have encountered related to starting a business?

My biggest challenge has been keeping a balance—as that’s what brought me on the path in the first place (taking on too much, moving too quickly, not taking care of myself)!

Every day I need to remember what my priorities are; and I structure my time and expend my energy accordingly.

How did you overcome these challenges?

I commit daily to stay connected to ALL parts of myself through my morning meditation practice, journaling, yoga, walks in nature, time with friends, creative projects, appreciating beauty, and generally just checking in with myself to see what I need, what I want, how I can better support myself. Some days that means taking a bubble bath, other days it means going for a long hike, dancing, feeling sexy with my boyfriend, giving myself the time and space to cry, or just cooking a nice meal for myself.

Other saviors for me are occasional pampering—like massages and pedicures; going on vacation just for fun at least once a year; and going on solo yoga and meditation retreats to truly step out of the world and go inside of myself.

What has been your biggest success thus far?

That’s an interesting question. I feel like I have had so many successes. That’s another daily practice—at the end of the day, I write down all of the things that I have done well, that I feel good about. I think this is so important for women because we can be so self-critical.

But if I were to name one big success, I would say that it’s being here, as I am, right now. I’m so proud of myself for overcoming what seemed like insurmountable hurdles in my life—my eating disorders, low self esteem, depression. I can honestly say that I have successfully found self-love and an outlet to express who I am in the world in a way that’s authentic and truly of service to others. I feel truly blessed for this.

That doesn’t mean that I never hit rough spots, I do; and that’s human. I just have a deepened respect for myself and more tools and experience under myself to navigate those turbulent waters.

What is your favorite free business resource?

Girlfriends! Women are so savvy, intuitive, and tasteful. If I ever have questions about ethics, design, or new project ideas, I can always turn to my friends and they set me straight!

What words of advice would you provide to others who are considering starting a business?

Get to know yourself first!! I mean REALLY get to know yourself. Spend time alone in silence, in nature. Go on retreat. Develop a personal practice of self inquiry—whether that’s through yoga, meditation, prayer, dance, poetry, or whatever floats your boat. I think this is the only way that we can truly value the voice of the heart over the expectations of others.

Then, when you feel connected with your purpose and your deepest offerings, trust that. Relax back into a larger, unseen support network, and know that when you are on the right path, honoring your heart’s truth, you’re unstoppable! Even in the most challenging of circumstances, open up to guidance, to being shown the way. Trust yourself. Trust your feelings. And, especially as women, you must learn to trust your intuition and return to it again and again.

Do you have any special offers for those reading this interview?

Yes, I have a wonderful free audio download for you about how to reclaim your core feminine essence. It’s so important for professional women to really remember how to be women, and I think this helps us do just that:
http://www.thewayofthehappywoman.com/feminine-essence-audio


Do you have a small business idea that you want to get "Up & Running?" Pink Heels has a variety of services and resources available for all stages of business development and sustainability. Check out all of your coaching and consulting options HERE and all of your e-book options HERE!

Would you like to be considered for an upcoming "Spotlight On" post? If you have a web site and a business Up & Running story, please email Jennifer Moore at Jennifer@Pink-Heels.com. You can be located anywhere in the world as we are creating a global network of fabulous women!

Diet 101: Risky Business

Living a fulfilling life requires one to take risk or, at least, take perceived risks. This point of clarification is extremely important since most of the time what we perceive to be risky is actually far from it. Our mind can play terrible tricks on us. When I work with clients, both career and business, it is important to understand and define the risk that one is confronting. A good starting point is to answer these two questions: What is the perception of the risk that you are feeling right now? And, what is the reality of the risk or, in other words, what is the truth that you know about this risk? Once you put these two dicotomies in check, the risk no longer seems overly frightening. You can then move towards making a strategic decision about your next step instead of viewing it as a risk.

While The Joy Diet, as part of Jamie's online book club, encourages people to identify and execute a risk everyday, I encourage you to redefine risk. Take the scary out of it by focusing on the realities of it. Once you release the fear behind the perceived risk, you empower yourself to experience more in life...like wear crazy pink hair and star sunglasses!

Start Your Own Fun Revolution

Thank you to Helen for sharing this fabulous clip!

Spotlight On: Jennifer Finke

Name of Business: The PRepared Publicist
Type of Business: PR inspiration for female entrepreneurs
Web Site: http://www.thepreparedpublicist.com/
Email: jenny@thepreparedpublicist.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/preprdpublicist

Tell us more about your woman-owned business.

The PRepared Publicist is dedicated to helping female entrepreneurs promote their businesses. I offer full service PR management and coaching services for entrepreneurs who want to do their own PR. I also have authored several ebooks about how to promote your business - I've gotten so much great feedback on my ebooks that I'll be writing more soon!

Why did you decide to start this type of business?

I worked for a large PR agency for many years. After I had my son in 2005, I decided I wanted to start my own PR consulting business, JF Communications.com, which offers full service PR help to entrepreneurs and small business owners. I found that many people couldn't afford to do PR and they were doing it on their own. I hated the thought of people doing PR on their own PR with little to no information, so I started The PRepared Publicist, which offers free and low-cost coaching and educational tools to entrepreneurs.

What makes your business unique?

My business is unique because I offer a VERY personalized approach to PR. Each company that I work with has a personalized PR plan of attack - there's nothing run-of-the-mill about me. Reporters know me too - many I've worked with for over a decade and some I've interviewed myself for my own ebook on how to do PR.

What is your favorite free business resource?

HelpAReporterOut.com - a service that connects reporters looking for sources with PR people and companies. I also love FreeConference.com because I can set up free conference calls.

Can you share with us something that very few people know as it relates to your business?

If people saw how messy my office was they would not work with me ;-) I'm super organized in my head though - and that's where it counts!

What words of advice would you provide to others who are considering starting a business?

I have three bits of advice I would offer.

1) Don't let self-doubt derail you. I doubt myself all the time but I have to put that negative stuff out of my head and think positive. I realize that I can do it and there's little room for negativity as a business owner.

2) I also think people shouldn't give up too quickly. It can take years before your business really takes off - but so many people give up too soon without giving it a full shot.

3) I wish that companies understood the importance of marketing right out of the gate. They spend so much money starting their businesses and leave pennies in the end to promote their businesses. You can have a great product, great website and great brochures, but without dedication to marketing and PR, no one will know about you. I think entrepreneurs should set aside 1/3 of their start-up budget for marketing and PR initiatives.

Do you have any special offers for those reading this interview?

Sure, 20% off any ebook with code "pinkheels". Also, if you mention you read my Spotlight on Pink Heels, I'll offer you a free 30 min PR consultation.

Do you have a small business idea that you want to get "Up & Running?" Pink Heels has a variety of services and resources available for all stages of business development and sustainability. Check out all of your coaching and consulting options HERE and all of your e-book options HERE!

Would you like to be considered for an upcoming "Spotlight On" post? If you have a web site and a business Up & Running story, please email Jennifer Moore at Jennifer@Pink-Heels.com. You can be located anywhere in the world as we are creating a global network of fabulous women!

Diet 101: Creativity Without Art

This week's chapter in The Joy Diet book club is focused on creativity without art. Creativity without art? Yes, I was also a little confused about this statement but, acccording to the author, creativity can also imply the approach in which we seek out to achieve our heart's desires. Yes, it is a little bit of a stretch but I can see the correlation and will play along.

Before allowing creativity to assist with your journey, the author recommends a sort of "clearing out" to make room for your efforts. One of these activities is to perseverate. I couldn't help but laugh out loud in hysteria when I encountered this section. Seriously, how often do you perseverate? I suspect, never.

Since negative thoughts, actions, and energy prevent the positive from being present in my life, I decided to skip this particular activity. Instead, I took a positive approach to the exercise:

NAME MY FRIEND(S)

I really, really, really love all of the amazing people in my life that support, respect, love, and honor our relationship.

NAME MY FRIENDS FABULOUS DEED(S)

They challenge me and help me up when I fall down. They are my rock when things are tough and they celebrate with me when things are great. They love me unconditionally and always make me laugh. I am a better person because they are in my life.

LIST OF FRIEND(S) TRAITS

I especially love the following things about my friends:

1. They always care.
2. They always find time.
3. They make me laugh until I pee my pants.
4. They would do anything to support me.
5. They know what I am thinking and feeling without saying a word.
6. They know exactly what I need and when I need it.
7. They are intelligent, beautiful, confident, positive, and nurturing.
8. They have goals and aspirations in life.
9. They are adventurous.
10. They are unique.

D.C. Bound

At least twice a month I travel to D.C. (my home) while balancing my time in Michigan to complete my PhD. Typically my schedule in D.C. is so full that I am unable to meet up with any of the D.C. Pink Heels readers. Although, I do have a confession. There have been a couple of times when I have been in D.C. and completely vegged out...I needed a break from everything...and didn't have anything on my schedule nor did I want anything on my schedule. Downtime is a precious commodity for me.

With all of that said, I will be in D.C. next week and will have time to meet up. Since there is a long list of people who have emailed me to say, "when you are in town let's get together" and since it is impossible for me to remember everyone who has said this to me, it seems logical to post something on my blog about my availability. So my D.C. readers, would you like to meet for tea and salty oatmeal cookies at Teaism?

Who is on Your Team?

Business Week recently published an article highlighting the ideas of young entrepreneurs in the U.S. Their business services/products ranged from marketing consulting to internship finding. Some of the ideas were original while others built upon existing concepts.

As I read through thestories of these talented young entrepreneurs, I couldn't help but wonder, "who taught them to be entrepreneurs?" Or better yet, "who guided them along the process?" As we all know, behind every successful person is a team of talented people that have supported and guided them. I have been successful because of many, many people.

The idea of having a "team" can also be applied outside of the small business realm. For instance, finding a job requires a team of people; mostly in the form of networkers who can pass along your information and connect you to key people. In our personal lives, our family helps to facilitate the balance between work and life. We have teams in all facets of our lives.

Who is part of your team? Do you have the right team members to help you reach your goals?