IndieEntrepreneur

Entrepreneur Women In Charge Event

2007-11-14T08:45:00.000-08:00

It's never too early to plan to attend this event! This conference, sponsored by Entrepreneur Magazine, presents focused sessions on topics such as online marketing, networking, and others. In addition, you will get a unique opportunity to pitch to the editors of Entrepreneur magazine and Entrepreneur.com on why you and your company should be featured in their website or magazine. A definite must-go! Located in Miami, FL. January 29, 2008.

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Blogging Expo, Entrepreneurship Conference

2007-11-05T10:57:00.000-08:00

BlogWorld & New Media Expo: This is the world's largest blogging conference, tradeshow and media event dedicated to the promotion of new media and blogging. Located in Las Vegas, NV. November 8-9, 2007

Second Annual Arizona Entrepreneurship Conference: For those in Arizona, this conference has all sorts of events for entrepreneurs, from networking opportunities, information about funding, and connection to other helpful entrepreneur resources. Speakers include Michael Gerber, author of "The E-Myth." Located in Phoenix, AZ. November 8, 2007.

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Expos and Teleseminars

2007-10-29T13:52:00.000-07:00

Protecting Your Intellectual Property Rights for Online Businesses: This is a valuable teleseminar which talks about protecting intellectual property rights for online businesses. Topics include selecting and protecting a trademark, using copyright law, protecting your company's trade secret, and how to protect yourself from IP lawsuits. OCtober 30, 2007.

Women with a Purpose Business Expo: Support women owned businesses or learn about starting your own woman-owned business. Speakers will address issues such as networking, financing, marketing, time management, and much more. Located in Greenbelt, MD. November 3, 2007.

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Elements by Dawn

2007-10-26T09:02:00.000-07:00

Dawn Brandt is the creative force behind Elements By Dawn, a jewelry company which officially began in June 2006. Dawn creates stylish jewelry, heavily textured with bold colors and daring lines, suggesting passion and excitement. Through pattern and texture, her pieces deliver movement, visual and tactile interest. Dawn uses color and form to invoke emotion and energy out of each design. Her designs are available at Etsy and CircleCircleDotDot online boutique.

Background
“I’ve managed restaurants, worked the sales counter, and even worked as a customer service instructor in the airline industry. I guess you could say I know how customers want to be treated and what they generally expect from a business. I think this experience helps me everyday! I also recently graduated Magna Cum Laude with my Bachelors of Business Administration. I feel this aspect of my education will help my business as well. I think it is a real shame when a talented artist cannot continue because of poor business decisions.”

Business Challenges
“Like most new ventures, just knowing where to find reliable information can be difficult. In the beginning, simply gathering and filing all the proper paperwork was a little daunting. But the biggest challenge was finding space for my business. There was a time when the business literally took over the entire house! I quickly learned how inefficient it was to have supplies and equipment in practically every room of the house. One weekend my husband and I moved my workbench into its own space and dedicated a walk-in closet for all of my supplies, packaging materials, and photography equipment. Everything finally has its own space. Now I can focus more energy into creating than searching for my hammer!”

Pricing Items
“For some reason this always seems to be a difficult decision for many artists. It is difficult because separating yourself from the product is not an easy task. Unfortunately, many artists who may not be comfortable with their talents may undervalue their work; and on the flip-side, artists who are inexperienced may overvalue their work and find themselves not selling anything! I personally research a number of suppliers and purchase the highest quality materials at the lowest prices, thus being able to offer affordable prices to my customers. In a nutshell: I use a traditional mark-up formula.”

Marketing Products
“Marketing is a combination of 4 key elements: Product, Placement, Promotion, and Price. I have a product that is superior to most of the traditional sterling silver jewelry on the market today. I researched my materials, developed prototypes, and have tested the tarnish-resistant properties of the Argentium™ sterling silver in real world scenarios. I have also researched my pricing methods and they are also sound. The final two elements, promotion and placement, are still in the works. I am just beginning to promote my jewelry more intensely since finishing school, and I have added a few additional outlets (consignment) for my jewelry as well.”

Targeting Customer Needs
“I subscribe to various trade magazines which keeps me up-to-date on fashion trends. I also listen to my customers to get an overall idea of their wants and needs. It is because of my customers that I almost exclusively use Argentium™ tarnish resistant sterling silver in my jewelry designs. Many customers shy away from traditional sterling silver because it tarnishes easily and requires special care to keep it looking like new. The Argentium™ alloy virtually eliminates the need for polishing.”

Engaging in Low-Cost Advertising
“I blog and have started advertising on a few high-traffic websites who cater to the indie business and to consumers looking to replace or avoid big-box merchandise in favor of handmade products.”

Motivations
“Many things motivate me. I want my children to grow-up having a mother for a role model. I want to inspire them to pursue their dreams, as I have. I want to know that I have done “the best that I can” when the day is finished. I want to support my family emotionally and financially, and crafting jewelry helps me accomplish this goal.”

Recommended Business Resources
“There are so many resources available! I would recommend starting at the library, Chamber of Commerce, or local college. You can find any number of books, videos and CDs at the library that not only cover the craft you are interested in, but can also assist in the business aspect of crafting. The chamber of commerce can give a list of programs for start-up businesses and offer support for established businesses too. Many colleges offer helpful programs for business owners as well.”

Design Inpired by…
"Objects from the Art Deco period. The bold lines and symmetry really speak to me."

Words of Advice-Research
"Never underestimate the power of research!"

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Contact:

Dawn Brandt
Elements by Dawn

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IE Tip 55: Google Analytics: Where are your visitors coming from?

2007-10-24T11:11:00.001-07:00

Do you know where your website visitors are coming from? If not, then try Google Analytics,which offeres features that allows marketers and business owners to place tracking codes in website pages to determine how visitors are getting to your site. You can track specific time periods and compare them to other date ranges to determine certain visitor trends. You can also use this in conjunction with Google AdWords to learn which keywords are most profitable to your business.

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Quick start, Start ups

2007-10-22T14:43:00.001-07:00

QuickBooks Just Start Event for New Entrepreneurs: An event to motivate aspiring entrepreneurs to finally kick start their businesses! Located in Seattle, WA. October 24, 2007.

Start Up LA: A conference committed to building the startup community in Los Angeles. This conference is more free-flowing, blending scheduled speakers with open topic presentations that guests can sign up at the day of the event. Located in Los Angeles, CA. October 26-27, 2007.

Ladies Who Launch LIVE: Listen to aspiring speakers, attend educational workshops-all for jumpstarting your business now! Located in various places. October 25, 26, Nov. 1 and 8.

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Phantom Limb and Handmade Detroit

2007-10-19T10:43:00.000-07:00

Stephanie Tardy of Phantom Limb (“The Stuff You’re Missing”) sells adorable cards, books and paper assemblage art wholesale and online. She also creates one-of-a-kind items from re-fabed skirts, roomy bags and crocheted scarves, all with the idea of re-using great materials and playing with a clean, assemblage aesthetic.

Stephanie started Phantom Limb in the fall of 2005 under the encouragement of her friend Carey Gustafson of Glass Action. Shortly after, Carey and Stephanie joined forces with Alicia Dorset of Lish Magic to form Handmade Detroit, an urban craft collective that produces many events including the Detroit Urban Craft Fair. Since then, Handmade Detroit added a few core members to the group, and but their mission to spread the word and provide opportunity for handmade artists in Michigan hasn’t changed!

Customers of All Ages and Genders
“I’m not sure I have a typical customer. Children are drawn to my love of color, men love my use of maps, and women tend to love anything writing-based, like my journals and stationery.”

Juggling Act
“I have a part-time position as a designer with a newspaper and spend the rest of my time on Handmade Detroit and Phantom Limb. I’d say it’s more like crafting is my full-time job as far as time spent, but both are creative outlets.”

Financing a Business

“At first I was doing [my business] all for the love … every dime I made I put right back into supplies. I don’t think it takes a lot of startup cash to be a crafter these days, at least for me it didn’t. Setting myself up on Etsy and MySpace, talking to the handmade store owner a mile away, using thrift and cast-off materials, these were all the low-cost beginnings of my business.”

“We still run Handmade Detroit this way: All the money collected through merchandise and vendor fees goes into craft show venue rental, flyer printing, web hosting, all the stuff that makes our group grow and able to provide more outlets around the city.”

Consigning Challenges
“Get everything in writing for consigning! Turn a notebook into a ledger or make a little consignment sheet to keep track of everything you agree on like what you will be paid and when, how much you sent, etc. Realize that consigning with distros is a whole different ballgame than consigning to brick and morter stores, which tend to be more professional and prompt but harder to get in with.”

Finding Retailers
“Research! Of course you can look at other crafter’s web sites and see where they sell. But I’ve had a lot of success by asking crafty friends in other cities to recommend their favorite shops or ones I would fit in with. Friends know you and your goods and if they know the shop owner, it’s an instant connection to talk to them.”

Indie Marketing
“Handmade Detroit is in a unique position to build up the DIY movement in Detroit and we have been interested in long-term recognition and creating a market for handmade items more than straight-out marketing.”

“That being said, I approach promotion for both Phantom Limb and Handmade Detroit like they are indie bands. In other words, a lot of low-cost and word-of-mouth marketing. Since Detroit also has a thriving music community (and all of the Handmade Detroit ladies are music geektresses), we also have naturally attached ourselves to the indie rock scene here. Like bands, the group and I use flyers and posters to get the word out about upcoming shows, giving them to other businesses, art venues and coffee shops. We have a long list of forums, profiles and other online outlets that we post on regularly.”

“In terms of some tie-in ideas: We’ve put our logo mitten pins on too many guitar straps to mention! We’ve given t-shirts to bands to wear on stage in exchange for an on-stage mention, and we’ve done handmade merchandise for other bands. We work with like-minded groups to tie in handmade products, too. For example, we’re working with a local online pop culture magazine to cross-promote and reach each other’s audiences. It’s important to always be reaching out to a new market and potential customer with like-minded ventures, so we do a lot of that.”

Generating Press
“Journalists and bloggers are always looking for new things to write about and so I try to get at least one piece of press for both each month. It’s always a combination of networking, e-mailing and media releases to secure press. Blind press releases are never as good as knowing the writer at your intended target, but e-mailing a personal note to a specific reporter can be just as good. It’s also important to keep in touch with your press contacts. While they can’t write about you all the time, they do know other media people and may even turn into a customer!”

“Keeping a list of updated contacts is also crucial. Spend a little time identifying good fits for your business. Think about angles of your goods, and don’t be afraid to pitch story ideas to the media, especially at smaller outlets like community newspapers. Don’t forget business press, who are always looking for small businesses to feature. Telling the story of your business is better than product mentions because it gains a true following.”

Keeping Up with Customers
“Because I do so many craft fairs, I am able to talk to my customers. They can tell you a lot, and sometimes unabashedly, about your goods and what they like and want.”

The DIY Community

“Being part of a community of makers motivates me constantly. The support in DIY community is just unreal. From the small things like if you’re having a bad day, to the big things like idea sharing and collaboration. This inspires me daily to get up and do more.”

Recommended Business Resources
“SCORE is a biggie. Also, check out community calendars for free and cheap business classes. Many banks, SBAs and local Chamber of Commerces offer interesting and low-cost options for upping your business smarts. They also provide great connections with non-crafters: Printers, bankers, lawyers, etc.”

Inspirations
“Phantom Limb was inspired by grade school libraries and children’s books. I miss the smell of the library in 3rd grade and most of my creations have a bit of that memory in them! Clean design, sans serif fonts, Wes Anderson’s design aesthetic, Richard Scarry’s use of color, Pippi Longstocking movies, and the unique musical beat, the decay and beauty of the city of Detroit also inspire me.”

Amazing Mentors
“The other ladies in Handmade Detroit, craft fair leaders and the folks doing good and important DIY work are basically my mentors; or at least, I admire their work immensely. Kelly Pettibone of Naka, Faythe Levine of Handmade Nation, the folks at Craft and Etsy and Venus, Autumn from Strange Folk, all the people who put on Craft Congress, and so many more. I admire the strength of their ideas and it motives me to bring more good things to Detroit.”

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Contact:

Stephanie Tardy
Phantom Limb
Handmade Detroit

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IE Tip 54: American Marketing Association: Discover Your Marketing Power

2007-10-17T08:53:00.000-07:00

The American Marketing Association (AMA) is one of the largest professional associations for marketers, with 38,000 members worldwide. As an indie entrepreneur, the AMA is a wonderful resource since you are most likely the sole or primary PR/marketing person for your company. The AMA website contains a lot of articles and resources on marketing topics, and although some of them are more academic than practical, the articles contain industry-specific statistics that may be useful for those of you writing business plans and need to find industry data for your specific business line. Some articles worth a quick read include those on branding and multi-cultural marketing.

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Marketing, Preparing Business Plans, Networking

2007-10-15T09:58:00.000-07:00

Tips for Marketers Coping With a World Where Messages Don't Matter: Online Web seminar on how personal publishing, digital video, podcasting and social networks are changing the media world. Sponsored by the American Marketing Association. October 16, 2007.

Preparing and Presenting a Business Plan: This workshop provides a step by step process of developing and writing a business plan directed towards getting equity financing. Located in Pleasanton, CA. FREE. October 17, 2007.

eWomenNetwork Accelerated Networking Event: Fun networking event for women entrepeneurs. Located in San Jose, CA. FREE. October 18, 2007.

How to Navigate the Marketing Industry: Class designed for owners of small and medium-size businesses interested in learning about marketing basics such as branding, designing a marketing campaign, and more. Located in Phoenix, AZ. October 19, 2007.

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IE Tip 53: Indie Public

2007-10-10T08:55:00.000-07:00

A Myspace for indies? Yes, Indie Public is a cool social networking site for the independent art and design community. Meet fellow indie creatives or supporters, visit forums, or join a group! It has almost 3,000 members so far, but it keeps on growing every day. Spread the word!

Visit Indiepublic

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Help Out A Fellow Indie!

2007-10-09T08:54:00.000-07:00

Alicia Freile of Gauchita is a fellow indie entrepreneur who is currently studying for her masters in design management in Australia. She's currently writing her thesis on the challenges of running an indie business and would like your help in filling out some surveys for her research.

Here's her description of her thesis:

"A part of my study here I am required to write a thesis. My thesis is on the difficulties that indie business owners encounter when they find success quickly and their business grows faster than they can handle, causing much stress and strain on other areas of their lives...A big part of this thesis will have to do with how the indies get their work produced; if they continue to make it all by hand, if they outsource to other crafters, do they get it manufactured, or do they alter the way it is made to make their business lives easier...My aim for this paper (since it is an academic one) is to either have it published or present it at next year's CraftCongress in Pittsburgh (if I'm in the US then...) so I'd really like to try and help others with this, which I think is a fundamental part of the indie business community."

Help her out! Seems like she's out there trying to do some good for the indie community. If you're interested in filling out the survey, please contact her at gauchita_handbags@yahoo.com

Tiny Tales

2007-10-05T08:23:00.000-07:00

Lara Frankovitch's quest to find the perfect way to capture her baby's "firsts" led her to create Tiny Tales products, which are clever kits that makes capturing poignant baby memories easy! Each kits contains notepads to document baby firsts, themed dividers to easily organize memorable milestones, and an acrylic box to safeguard these memories. Definitely perfect gifts for expecting moms and new parents! Here she shares her inspiration behind Tiny Tales, experiences, and business challenges:

The Birth of Tiny Tales
"I had the idea for a Tiny Tales-like product before my son was born. I have this problem called perfectionismitis, which results in many started but not finished projects....I knew it was unrealistic to create the perfect baby book with all the demands of a young baby and being a first-time mom, [so] I created a system to buy time until I was ready to create the most amazing baby book known to man. I designed some cute notepads, got them printed and padded, wrapped a shoe box with baby paper, and cut a hole cut in the top. Every time my son did something newsworthy I wrote it down on the paper and put it in the shoe box. Guess what? My son is 20 months old and the box from his first year is under the bed. But I’m not stressed about it because I know all the stories and dates are there, safe, and waiting for my creativity to arrive."

"Around the end of his 1st year, I started to think I might have an idea that would appeal to other moms. I researched starting a company, and decided it was low risk and low overhead, and something I could build while keeping my day job. I officially registered Tiny Tales as a business in November 2006."

"The product has come a long way from the wrapping paper shoebox prototype, and I consider June 2007 as my official re-launch with the design and website as it is now."

Typical Customer
“The vast majority are women. I thought Tiny Tales would appeal mainly to baby shower goers, but I sell almost as many Toddler Tales as I do Baby Tales. The customers who buy Baby Tales are typically buying for someone else as a gift, and the majority of Toddler Tales customers seem to be buying for themselves. In fact, I have quite a few orders where Baby Tales is a gift, and the giver also orders a Toddler Tales for herself!”

Getting the Confidence
“Since I have been out of college, I have been a technology project manager, mostly working as a consultant. Working with so many different companies has given me the confidence to walk to a new client and establish myself as an expert. I can apply that confidence to my business and push for what I think is best for Tiny Tales. It is my company, and if I don’t stand up for it, then no one else will. Not that I always know what is right!”

Financing the Business
“Luckily I haven’t had to put up too much capital to get the business off the ground. I ordered a small quantity at first, and my sales kept pace to pay for the materials. I wasn’t making any money, but at least I didn’t have a ton of upfront expenses. Getting the website design up was the largest expense in the beginning. Now all the materials are the biggest expense because I order in larger quantities to get better discounts.”

Marketing
“Sending samples to mommy shopping blogs has been worth it for the majority of the blogs I have submitted to. The best was UrbanBaby – a total surprise and it hadn’t even contacted me... I didn’t even receive a notice Tiny Tales would be featured – I just opened my email and there was the newsletter. Then the orders started flooding in! Luckily it was a Friday so I had all weekend to fill orders. I have also been in the local newspaper. I sent a press release announcing the company, and they came out to interview me for the business section. I have placed ads in a few MOMS Club newsletters, but with limited success. The ads are so cheap though that I might try again with a different ad design.”

Motivation
“I have figured out the number of kits I need to sell each day to make this my full time job. It is a high number and seems out of reach, but that is what I am working towards. I dream about what my day will be like not having to put on “work” clothes and drop my son off at daycare. Being able to go for a jog in the middle of the day. Being able to work outside on my laptop. That is what motivates me, even when it seems like too much work.”

Words of Advice-Avoiding “Analysis Paralysis”
“I’ve been very lucky that I can go as fast or as slow as I want in building the business. It took a while to get the product design just right, and I’m glad I didn’t feel a rush to force it. My advice to someone just starting out is to do a lot of research, but don’t let yourself get into “analysis paralysis.” Find people you can bounce ideas off of that will give you honest feedback. So much is uncertain in running your own business, and it can make you feel like you are alone in making all of the decisions (which you basically are), so having someone who will listen while you think out loud can be invaluable.”

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Contact:

Lara Frankovitch

Tiny Tales

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IE Tip 52: Trade Show Exhibitor Association

2007-10-03T09:02:00.000-07:00

New to exhibiting in trade shows? The Trade Show Exhibitor Association (TSEA) is a great initial resource for trade show novices. As the industry voice for exhibitors and event marketers for the past 30+ years, the TSEA provides knowledge on effectively promoting and selling products. Check out their tips on exhibitor etiquette, creating a winning booth, preshow promotion, and more!

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IE Tip 51: Trade Show News Network: Online Resource for Trade Shows

2007-10-02T09:11:00.000-07:00

Need to know what tradeshows are in your industry? The Trade Show Nets Network (TSNN) is a leading online resource for trade show, exhibition, and event information. It currently contains information on 15, 000 trade shows, public events, conferences, and exhibits, and offers listings of industry suppliers and trade show venues.

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Blogging and Book Publishing

2007-10-01T08:42:00.000-07:00

Business Blog Basics: Learn about the basics of blogs and how they can be a powerful marketing tool for your small business. Located in Birmingham, MI. Oct. 1, 2007.

The Secrets Behind Book Publishing: A must for aspiring published writers! This panel of distinguished book agents and editos will cover issues such as approaching an agent, recognizing common mistakes that new authors make, and marketing and publicizing your book. Located in New York, NY. October 2, 2007.

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Cartolina Cards and Dominion Post and Salvage

2007-09-28T10:01:00.000-07:00

It's obvious that Fiona Richards loves paper. As the owner of not one, but two separate stationery companies, Fiona is surrounded by unique designs, intriguing images, and colorful patterns all day. Dominion Post and Salvage (DPS), her first card company, features labor intensive, handmade cards for the sophisticated buyer. This line combines the beauty of vintage ephemera with the sophistication of modern design to create a visually and emotionally compelling style. To address the younger market, Fiona formed Cartolina, which features equally chic and unique stationary at a lower price point. Cartolina combines old block prints and antique cartouches with twentieth century lead type and contemporary colors, resulting in a fresh modern twist to stationery design.

Background
"[I was] educated in Scotland. I have a fine art background - painted pictures for a living for a long time and then worked as a graphic designer for 15 years - I "apprenticed" under 2 very talented designers . I have an "old school" knowledge of graphic design which I think really helps because I have a good knowledge of traditional typography and lithography. I understand the techniques that traditional offset printers use and this really helps me get good service, good deals and a great product from the printer. I have a serious aversion to digital printing and very low tolerance for bad typography!"

Accepting Success
"[The most challenging part about having a business is] getting over the fear of success. I have had many sleepless nights wondering how I was going to deal with large orders, inventory control, etc. Nowadays I am past that stage and when i start freaking out about the amount of work that has to be done I just take a deep breath and remind myself how fantastic it has been to have had such good success so far, and that I should celebrate if I run out of cards because it means that we are doing WELL !"

Conquering U.S. and Canada
"We sell to stores all over Canada and the US. We sell to about 200 stores. Some stores are national stationery chains like Paper Source, national gourmet stores like Wholefoods and others are home decor stores and gift stores. We sell to lots of florists and also garden centres."

Landing the First Wholesale Account
"We live in the country - an 8 hour drive to a city. So I was going to Vancouver for the weekend (8hrs) and I took a small box of cards to one of my favourite shops to see if they liked them (at this time I was still a graphic designer). They bought them all. Two weeks later Lisa called me, after seeing my cards in this shop, to see if i would like to work with her and she would take care of all the sales. So I never did another sales call after that first one! I am a terrible sales person!"

Making Contacts at Gift Shows
"We have our products every year at the New York International Gift Fair(twice a year), as well as the San Fransisco Gift Fair(twice a year). We also have our products at the National Stationery Show in New York every spring. These shows are the best way to sign up new accounts. We also make sure that we have new products to launch at the New York show twice a year."

Generating Press
"We have had good luck with the magazines - we just write a nice letter to them and send a box of samples - nothing fancy - just friendly. We have never spent any money on press releases or media packs. We have had wonderful 3 page spreads on our company - we have had loads of seasonal features and lots of general good press."

"I think that press releases and media kits are a huge waste of money and it kills me when i read about new indie designers spending a fortune on expensive PR stuff."

The Power of Blogs
"We always send product updates to the main design blogs - design*sponge and poppytalk-three times a year before the shows. We have very good response from the blogs. We often get new retailers directly from being blogged...and it's free. I do believe that you have to be quite active on the blogs - make frequent comments etc. so that the blogger gets to know you. I think that blogs are an amazing phenomena for small business - such a generous group of people."

Business Challenges
"At the moment the problem for us is the fall in the US dollar. We do so much business State side ( We are in Canada). But the US economy is making a bit of a dent in the exchange rate so we may have to raise our prices - OR buy more supplies in the States to bring our costs down. If the US economy continues to slide we will definitely look at doing more international business in Japan, Australia and Europe."

Motivation

"I love to see business happening. We live in an extremely remote area and I love that fact that I can do business successfully with beautiful shops in Manhattan from my cottage at the lakeside. I am excited by the fact that I can hear that fax machine spitting out orders every day.......though the fact is that I am deeply involved in this business now - there really is no choice at to whether I am feeling 'motivated' or not - the business chugs along and if i don't get into the studio everyday and take care of orders it will implode!"

Inspired by...

"Vintage design from every era - no matter how you look at it, in the quest for REAL inspiration you will always end up back at the old-stuff - you don't find inspiration at Walmart."

Mentor
"My husband - he is a briliant designer and illustrator and has taught me a lot over the years."

Words of Advice: Focus, Learn, and Follow Through
"Focus on an industry you love, don't just jump on a current bandwagon. Learn to do everything yourself. It will save you a lot of time and money if you understand every aspect of your industry - including the boring stuff like web development, marketing, PR, accounting etc. After you have done masses of research and you are prepared to commit yourself to your business - work hard and take pride in what you do. Don't spread yourself too thin - focus on a niche and grow slowly."

"All new businesses cost money - being self employed is not CHEAP - as soon as you recognize that you have a position in the market, invest as much money as you can. I hear so many people always trying to get the best price and the cheapest deals when they are starting out, I think this is the wrong time to save money. Most people will barely break even in their first few years of ANY new business. Being a self employed craft person is not a get-rich-quick plan! Work hard, grow your business and the money will start to increase - and as your volumes go up, your costs will come down and you will make more money - it's a basic business plan."

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Contact:

Fiona Richards

Dominion Post and Salvage

Cartolina

fiona@fionarichards.com

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IE Tip 50: Prosper.com

2007-09-27T08:47:00.000-07:00

Need some cash or have some to spare? Prosper is the first people-to-people lending marketplace for consumers. Prosper bases its lending principle in a time when people formed personal credit communities and people acted more responsibly towards each other-resulting in better interest rates to borrow or lend. Borrowers can request loans of up to $25,000. They also have to indicate the maximum interest rate they would be willing to pay. Lenders can bid on listings by indicating the minimum rate they would like to accept. When a borrower and lender are matched for a loan, Prosper handles the tasks for payment and collection of the loan.

IE Tip 49: Woman Owned: Business Networks For Women

2007-09-26T09:21:00.000-07:00

A wonderful resource for women entrepreneurs, WomanOwned.com started in 1997, and through word of mouth has grown to serve over 1.5 million women business owners all over the world. Offering "no nonsense" business advice, the site provides straightforward business information, as well as networking opportunities and resources for women.

Entrepreneurship Panel, Podcast Expo

2007-09-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

Step Up Women in Entrepreneurship Panel: Listen to leading women entrepreneurs in fashion, finance, legal services, and marketing candidly speak about their successes and challenges in starting a business. Located in New York, NY. Sept. 26, 2007.

Podcast and New Media Expo: We know how podcasts are gaining popularity as marketing tools. This annual convention educates individuals and companies about how to produce high-quality audio and video digital content (for podcasting), grow a loyal audience, and market your content creatively. Located in Ontario, CA. Sept. 28-30, 2007.

Computer Bags

2007-09-21T09:58:00.003-07:00

Computers are so utilitarian and boring, why not spice them up with one of these vibrant laptop cases and sleeves? (Wouldn't that make work less like...work? Probably not.)

1. Angie Green Sequined Laptop Bag by Abbi New York.

2. Cherry Blossom Laptop Bag by Janine King Designs.

3. Gray Felt Laptop Sleeve by Working Class Heroes.

4. Multi-striped Laptop Bag by Dory Designs.

IE Tip 48: Boss Lady: Because Women Run Businesses

2007-09-18T09:43:00.000-07:00

Run by Lauren Bacon and Emira Mears, a pair of business partners and best friends, Boss Lady contains a chockfull of entrepreneurial tips and information from their own experiences in running their own business. Lauren and Emira are currently co-authoring a book on starting a business, but until their book is published, please check out their site here.

Marketing Classes, Transitioning to Self-Employed

2007-09-17T09:08:00.000-07:00

How to Successfully Transition from Employee to Self-Employed: Class will discuss basic strategies to making the transition from employee to self employee. It will also provide key approaches to accelerate your transition, and give resources to help put your plan into action. Located in Birmingham, MI. Sept. 17, 2007.

Marketing Magic Workshop: Learn smart marketing strategies such as branding, networking, internet marketing, and public relations. Sponsored by Center for Women. Located in Charleston, SC. Sept. 18, 2007.

Lunch and Learn: Business from the Heart: Series which covers essentials of "marketing with heart" by going to the core of who you are and how you relate to people. Located in Portland, OR. Sept. 20, 2007.

Women For Hope

2007-09-14T22:27:00.000-07:00

Pam and Tom Swider run Women For Hope, a web-based business which provides information and resources about various women-related issues such as sexual assault, domestic violence, heart disease, and ovarian cancer.

At the heart of Women For Hope is a shopping boutique that features fun and unique products for women. All the products featured are made by companies that are women owned or run. Pam and Tom also have their own awareness jewelry line in which 10% of the proceeds is donated to the charity connected with that specific cause.

In its quest to combat women-related causes, Women for Hope has partnered with national and local charities that deal with cancer, sexual assault, domestic violence, eating disorders, and AIDS.

Here Pam shares her stories and thoughts on starting Women For Hope:

Pam’s Story
“I am a rape survivor. It was a long road to recovery and the thing that really kept me going was hope. I found that hope in lots of ways, especially from the crisis center I went to and knowing that I wasn’t alone. I also wanted a way to give back to those that helped me and help others every day. My husband, Tom, has a background in counseling, so he really understands where I am coming from. He also taught self-defense classes and knows how important information can be when you are dealing with a trauma. He was right on board with my idea of a company that brought women together to help each other. We work together to make Women For Hope a reality.”

A Balancing Act
“Tom and I both work full time jobs. We have the benefit of working together and both wear a lot of hats. Weekends are pretty packed with working on the site, making jewelry and doing art shows (which we just started) We also work in the evenings, but try to have at least one night during the week when we take a breather.”

Background
“We both have our bachelor’s degrees. I have worked in sales and marketing. Tom has done sales and also [experience in] training and presenting. We also both have started businesses, which didn’t work out, but taught us a lot. Because of our backgrounds, we take things one step at a time. With us both having marketing experience, which has helped us think out of the box and look at things from that point of view, rather than from an artist’s point of view as far as promoting the company.”

Business Challenges
“Finding money to invest into the business is always a hurdle, as well as getting the word out about us to the general public. Time management is always a challenge-reminding ourselves that we need a break every once in a while.” “The most challenging part has been to keep up the slow and steady pace we are on. I think when you start a business, patience is extremely important. It is tempting to try to find that one thing that is going to make you “hit it big” and unfortunately, that just doesn’t happen. The worst thing to do is have big expectations when you are trying to get things off the ground and then getting disappointed. We both learned that from our previous business ventures. We keep each other in check and remind ourselves on a regular basis what our focus is and how we need to take small steps to reach our goals.”

Best of Show
“Our best experience so far was last weekend, we just revamped our display and changing it from kind of basic to a new look. We are using a “woman’s dresser top” as our model. We added big wooden boxes that are like jewelry boxes to display the jewelry. We also added lots of Gerber daisies (our logo and theme of the website) to accent the display. It got lots of ooohs and ahhs and we had a lot of people stop by.”

Marketing Avenues
We market our items mainly through the web. Because of the agreements we have with the non-profits, some of them have put links on their sites to our sites. This has helped both with customers finding us from them and also raising our search engine appearances.” “We also use word of mouth and carry cards with us always. I wear the jewelry as often as I can. I say I am a walking billboard!”

Generating Press
“We have done press releases ourselves, but the biggest press opportunities have come from the cancer charity we work with doing press pushes and including us in this.”

Motivated by…
“The fact our business helps others is a big motivator. It is amazing when we hear from someone how wearing one of our bracelets helps them get through the day. Or getting an email from someone who has been assaulted thanking me for telling my story. It is when I get those that I know I am doing what I am supposed to be doing.”

“We are also motivated about the usual…being our own boss, working for ourselves, financial security, and the pride of owning a business.”

Inspirations
“We are inspired by strong women and men who make a difference. For example, we recently had the opportunity to meet Angela Shelton. She was an actress/writer in Hollywood who decided to do a documentary about women in America. Her hook was to interview all the other Angela Sheltons across the US. Once she started talking to them, she discovered that, like herself, the majority of them had been raped, abused or sexually abused by family members. Her journey leads her to confront her abusive father and in the process find herself. The movie is called “Searching for Angela Shelton.” It was amazing to watch and she was amazing to meet. She has made it her life mission to help those who are survivors of abuse and though she is constantly confronted with stories of trauma, she is uplifting and positive. I hope to be able to touch just a small part of the people she has with her mission.”

Words of Advice-Follow Your Dreams
“ Do what you believe in. Be patient and take each day one day at time. If you have a dream, don’t be afraid to follow it and don’t let someone talk you out of doing what you know is right.”

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Contact:

Pam and Tom Swider
Women for Hope
info@womenforhope.com

IE Tip 47: Craft Revolution: Helping Creative Business Owners Navigate the Waters that Lead to Success

2007-09-13T10:30:00.000-07:00

Run by a group of talented crafters, designers, and entrepreneurs, Craft Revolution provides business tips, craft news, and other helpful musings targeted to the indie craft community. They also started podcasting this past August-check out their initial episode here.

IE Tip 46: SBA Office of Women's Business Ownership: Resource for Women Entrepreneurs

2007-09-11T10:39:00.000-07:00

The Small Business Administration's Office of Women's Business Ownership (OWBO) assists women achieve their dreams and improve their communities by helping them start and run successful businesses. Check out their website for a great list of women's business centers (organized by state), as well as inspiring success stories of women entrepreneurs who have fulfilled their business dreams.

Women's Expo, Web Class

2007-09-10T09:07:00.000-07:00

Build a Web Business: Want to learn how to build a successful web business? This course series uses a suite of online tools to brainstorm a business idea, determine its profitability, write content and build a web business. Students will graduate from the class with a working web site and a blueprint for a successful online business. Located in Reno, NV. September 11, 2007.

Great Women's Expo: Mingle, connect, and network with other women in the West Coast's largest event for women. Keynote speakers include Suzanne Somers, Carnie Wilson, and Fran Drescher. Located in Los Angeles, CA. September 15, 2007.

Midnight Firefly and Allison Biggs Graphic Design

2007-09-07T08:21:00.000-07:00

Whether it’s building a website, developing jewelry designs, or creating paper and stationery products for her shop, Allison Biggs does it all with creativity, style, and passion. She started her first business, Midnight Firefly in 2004, creating gorgeous handmade and limited edition jewelry. In the last three years, her style and skill in jewelry design has grown significantly, to a point where she has finally felt like she has come into my own. She is also a freelance graphic designer who enjoys working with other small-business entrepreneurs in a variety of web, print, and media design projects. From her interest in design and a love of paper products, she began designing stationery products which are available at her Etsy shop.

Combining Her Background with Business
“I have a bachelors degree in graphic design. This has helped me with my graphic design business, and paper/stationery, but it also helped a lot with my jewelry design business as well. I believe all the same principals and aesthetics apply themselves to jewelry design, but in a three dimensional way. It helps immensely to be able to do my own branding, websites, and business cards."
A Balancing Act
“I work part time as a graphic designer at a local newspaper, but I still consider working on my businesses as a full time job. Balancing time can be tricky. When you work for yourself, sometimes you feel guilty if you’re not spending every single minute doing something related to your business. There are some points when you just need to walk away and make a conscious decision to take care of yourself, because in the long run, you’ll get much farther.”

Believing in Your Business and in Yourself
“I think that most challenging part of starting your own business is believing in yourself and your ideas. When you start your own business, a lot of people will make you doubt yourself. As long as you believe that you can succeed, and use that belief to build and better your business, there’s not really much that can stop you!”

Generating Press
“For Midnight Firefly, I’ve sent out press releases to highlight different events in the business, such as our donation to the Dove Campaign for Real Beauty. This was picked up by a local paper that did a story on the business. For my paper/stationery design, I was able to participate in the media only portion of The Sampler, where they send separate samples to different media contacts.”

Low-Cost Advertising
“Promo swaps and swag bags are a great way to get your product out to people, just make sure to pick the right venue! Also, there are many online blogs that are very affordable for the amount of exposure they give you.”

Business Challenges
“Gaining exposure. Advertising, no matter how big you get is a continuous task. Even if you reach hundreds of people, there are still billions more out there who have never heard of you, and you have to convince them that they need what you have.”

Motivated by…
“Knowing that I don’t want to live an ordinary life. Having goals and a purpose constantly keep me moving. And nothing is a better motivator than a small taste of success.”

Recommended Business Resources

“The Switchboards have been an invaluable resource since they day it began. I also recommend reading Guerrilla Marketing. Not everything is 100% applicable for every business, but it gets you thinking about your marketing strategy in an entirely different way. If you’re a woman in need of some business inspiration, defiantly visit Another Girl At Play. It will get you out of a funk when the road ahead seems more than daunting.”

Discovering Inspiration

“I take a lot of my inspiration from nature and fine art. Depending on what I’m working on, my inspiration can come from the materials themselves. I love to let my imagination run wild and see what happens. My ideas hardly ever end up the way they began, but that’s one of the things I enjoy the most!”

Words of Advice-Be True
“As an artist, I’ve found that nothing is more important than being true to your ideas. Once you start designing because you think something is trendy or in style, the magic and soul of your creativity is lost, and so is the joy of the process.”
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Contact:

Allison Biggs
Midnight Firefly
Allison Biggs Graphic Design
allison@amdesignworks.com

Craft Inspiration

2007-09-05T12:03:00.001-07:00

Designer's block? Books and other resources that inspire you to create.

Craftivity: Innovatively cool projects by author Tsia Carson, the force behind Supernaturale.

Scribbles Giant Coloring Book: Coloring book for the young and young-at-heart.

Wreck This Journal: Who says journals have to be pristine? Keri Smith encourages, no, requires you to go all out and wreck your journal-step on it, throw it against the wall, splatter paint---all in the name of unleasing creativity.

IE Tip 45: American Institute for Graphic Arts (AIGA)

2007-09-04T09:26:00.000-07:00

AIGA is the oldest and largest professional membership association for creatives in the design field. Its goal is to inform, communicate, inspire, and validate designers and the design profession. Some really handy resources for freelancers or design entrepreneurs are the "Design Business and Ethics" brochures that are published periodically on topics such as educating clients and recognizing legal requirements faced by design firms. The website also has a sample of a standard agreement for design services that you can customize depending on your design engagement.

Pottery by Tasha McKelvey

2007-08-31T08:56:00.000-07:00

Tasha McKelvey creates beautiful, yet functional pottery, ceramic buttons and jewelry. In a mass-produced world, her work shines and stands out, as she seeks to make handmade art to make “our surroundings a little more human.” The passion and love for clay art is evident in her products-each texture, each line, and each color combination seems to be lovingly created and chosen with intention.

Background
“I worked as a Potter’s Assistant in high school – so I learned some aspects of the business at a young age. In some ways, I modeled my business too much on my mentors’ business when I could have been marketing my work more effectively. It took me five years to figure that out.”

“I also have a degree in Studio Art – which gave me what I need to know to create my work but was vague on how to make a living from my work.”

Customer of All Ages
“My customers are aged from 5 to 85 and slightly more likely to be female then male. Until a few years ago, the vast majority of my customers were baby-boomer females because I only made functional pottery and marketed it through Fine Art & Craft Shows and Galleries. I always knew that my work would appeal to my contemporaries if only I could find venues that attracted them. Once I got involved with the Etsy community, I was able to connect with Indie Shoppers through Etsy and Indie Shows.”

Listen and Experiment
“I listen to what my customers and potential customers say when I am at retail shows. I like to experiment with new designs and am always thrilled when they are well-received.”

“With my ceramic jewelry, I try to pay attention to trends and I take them into consideration when I design new work.”

Start Up Challenges
“Just figuring out how to run a business when you’re 22, out of school and just want to make your art. There was a big learning curve. I read books on running a craft business and learned from my mistakes.”

Picking the Right Type of Show for the Product
“I steer clear of shows that have a commercial feel about them – my work is appreciated by buyers who are looking for handmade products. I once gave a ‘commercial-type’ craft show a try because it was a slow time of year and I figured ‘what the heck,’ but I ended up feeling like I wasted three days even though I still made a profit. Being at a venue where your work is under-appreciated in favor of mass-produced items being passed off as ‘handmade’ is a depressing experience.”

Craft Shows As Marketing Tools
"I find that the best way to market my work is by making it readily available for purchase in venues such as retail shows and online. In both cases, having good images of my work is an absolute must.”

“I often pick up wholesale accounts and press coverage from both retail shows and selling online.”

Business Challenge
“My biggest challenge at the moment is producing enough new work for my Fall retail shows and the Holiday Season. It is a terrible feeling to know you could have sold twice as much if only you had had been able to make more.”

Motivation
“I love creating new work and the faster it sells the sooner you get to make even more new work.”

Recommended Business Resources
“The book Crafting as a Business by Wendy Rosen, The Switchboards, Etsy, Indie Craft Shows, and my own art and craft business blog.”

Inspired by…
“The tradition of making beautiful useful objects by hand.”

Mentors
“The potters I have worked alongside since I was a teenager and all of the other helpful professional artists and crafters I have met over the past 7 years.”

Words of Advice-Learn, learn, learn
“Learn as much as you can about the business end of making and selling handmade work. Do your research before you start a business. Expect to do a lot of hard work.”

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Contact:

Tasha McKelvey

Business Reads

2007-08-28T13:06:00.001-07:00

Here are some good business reads for indie entrepreneurs.

How to Start as An Illustrator: Authored by artist Keri Smith, this is a simple, yet rich (and full of links) guide to starting an illustration career.

Fast Company: Great magazine for business leaders.

My First Book of Business Etiquette: Owning your own business means interacting with all types of people-from managers, clients, suppliers. This book details essentials such as how to schmooze, conduct meetings, etc.

Creatively Self-Employed: This book by Kristen Fischer discusses life of the creatively self-employed-from taking the initial plunge, dealing with clients, to maintaining balance. This book shows you how to build confidence in your work, cope with rejection, and maintain a strong business.

Advice for Artists, Lecture on Crafting

2007-08-27T08:54:00.001-07:00

Practical Advice For Artists: This lecture by Ashley McLean of McLean Fine Arts provides straightforward, no-nonsense advice on the business side of art for visual artists interested in obtaining exhibitions, building their résumé, promoting their work, and finding gallery representation. Located in Los Angeles, CA. August 28,2007.

Creatively Speaking: Crafting Culture: Lecture and thoughts on the growing craft phenomenon. Located in Seattle, WA. Sept 4, 2007.

Annette Piper

2007-08-24T06:06:00.000-07:00

Annette Piper creates beautifully classic one-of-a-kind and limited jewelry featuring gemstones and pearls. Based in Australia, Annette started selling her work locally in 2004 and eventually expanded to shows in neighboring areas in 2005. She was a gemologist for a number of years before she started designing and making jewelry from her home studio.

Annette is inspired by nature, legends, and art. Her passion and dedication to creating quality pieces has led her to source gems from all over the world, ensuring that her customers can find the right piece of jewelry for that special occasion or for every day wear.

Background in Jewelry
“After finishing high school I started work in the jewellery trade, working for a manufacturing jeweller. After a couple of years I decided to do a course in gemology and gained my Diploma of Gemology in 1986 from the Australian Gemological Association. I kept working in the trade until 1989 when I married and repeated moves with my military husband made it easier to work in other fields.”

“Having a background in the trade has been invaluable. I already knew a lot of the ‘tricks of the trade’ by being around a workshop environment. Studying gemology and having a passion for gemstones has defined the type of jewellery I create, [and] makes me more confident when purchasing stones and fosters a confidence in my clients that they are dealing with someone who knows their trade.”

Typical Customer
“My typical customer would be a women over 35 years – one who has confidence in who she is and knows what she likes. She appreciates quality and something a little different yet doesn’t like to stray too far from timeless style.”

Balancing Parenthood and Business
“I have three children. I work during school times and after the children are in bed. During holidays and weekends I can do a bit of work if I have orders or need to prepare for a show. I have been working at my bench since the children were quite small so they are quite used to me working there – they come and watch for a while, ask a few questions and then wander off again!”

Business Challenges
“Falling into a ‘no mans land’ category in the jewellery field. I am not a jeweler – as a rule (at least here in Australia) they emphasize the metal and the stones are an embellishment, whereas I have all the emphasis on the stones/pearls. But on the other hand, I am not a ‘beader’ either as I only use gemstones and pearls. However I do tend to appeal to people who can appreciate the fact that I am different whilst still retaining a stylish/elegant feel.”

“Getting my target market online – a lot of Australia is still not online! Finding suitable places to market my site are a constant frustration – they tend to be aimed at the younger, hip end of the spectrum which is probably the majority of users down here!”

“Finding suitable high-end shows are also a problem. The majority are either * big business/aimed at the wholesale/gift trade, * limited to an art gallery exhibition or * at the other end of the spectrum at a market/fair level – none of which are particularly suitable for my jewellery! Once again this is more of a result of how things work in Australia – ‘indie’ is a bit of an odd concept to most and ‘craft’ means potpourri bags and unprofessional workmanship (note, cities do have a small presence of ‘indie’ but its small and only slowly gathering momentum). There is a real need for the public here to be educated on how much better hand crafted items can be and more shows held to showcase the talent we undoubtedly have tucked away!”

“Overcoming the perception by family and friends that they could have anything they wanted for free! The more I sell, the less they ask for now!”

Selling Outlets
“At a local artisan outlet, online and in person. I also have three retailers – a bricks and mortar boutique, a gallery and an online gift store.”

Landing a Wholesale Account
“A client of mine was wearing my jewellery and was asked by a boutique owner where she had got it – so I got an email from the boutique owner, quite unexpectedly! The next boutique owener saw my jewellery at a show and thought it was perfect for her store. The gallery owner found me online and I gained the online gift boutique via a business forum.”

Show Experiences
“ I have exhibited at a local jazz festival for the last couple of years and although not run off my feet, it was certainly worthwhile attending. I have done private shows and these are always well received and great fun to do – meeting lots of new people and getting wonderful feedback on my jewellery is very satisfying!”

“My worst ‘show’ was a local market – I had a feeling it wouldn’t be suitable but apparently I had been requested. Well, whoever requested me forgot to turn up!!!! It was a disaster!”

Pricing Items
“I don’t do the standard markups – I use a formula as a guideline which takes into account the time taken and the cost of materials, but will go up or down depending on the item and what the market will bear. As I live in a rural area my clients aren’t prepared to pay as much as someone who lives in the city. Some items also take a lot of time to make – I can’t possibly charge the full amount of my labour or no one would buy it – so I take a hit on some items and make a bit more on others to even it all out.”

Ways of Marketing Products
“Online – directories and press releases, having your signature in emails and business forums - these all bring prospective clients to my site. I have an irregular newsletter that I send out to subscribers and clients. Elsewhere – print media, letterbox drops, word of mouth. Letterbox drops for a specific event have worked brilliantly. Print media hasn’t proved to be cost effective at all. Word of mouth is still the best advertising.”

Low-Cost Advertising
“[I participate] in business forums that allow your website to be listed in your signature. I also have a cross promotion arrangement with a gift store – I provide some small items of jewellery and discount coupons for the store to give to their clients (that meet my target market) as a ‘bonus’. In return they provide me with some samples and some discount vouchers. I include their sample and voucher with my online sales and a voucher in my carry bag for all in-person sales. This has yet to generate sales that can be identified as coming from this method, but it all has to help!”

Recommended Business Resources
Bruce Baker’s CD’s are invaluable for selling at shows!
Yahoo group – Marketing Artisan Jewellery
Yahoo group – Joolcrafting
Australian business forum – http://www.themessydesk.com.au/
US creative business forum – http://www.theswitchboards.com/
Australian jewellery forum – http://www.beadingforum.com.au/
Marketing websites - http://www.publicityhound.com/, http://www.artbizcoach.com/

Inspired by…

”Looking into gemstones – each stone can be its own little world with its patterns, inclusions, colour(s), lustre, and so on. Art and mythology also have an effect on my designs and combinations. I also love old movies and movie stars of the 40 and 50s – when women were typically portrayed as stylish and elegant.”

Words of Advice-Know, Research, and Present your Product Well
“Research your market – if what you are making doesn’t appeal, then you have to seek out your target market, or you have to change what you are making to fit the market you CAN sell to.”

“Pay attention to the details. If you notice, chances are someone else will as well.”

“Know your product and be able to answer any questions about what has gone into the finished product.”

“Presentation is paramount to enhancing your image. Dress and present your goods according to your target market.”

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Contact:

Annette Piper

Sticky Notes

2007-08-23T09:47:00.001-07:00

Ship packages? Check. Blog product? Check. With these cute post-its, you can remind yourself in style.

See more of my Sticky Notes list at ThisNext.

Shine On

2007-08-23T08:39:00.000-07:00

Just thought I share an excerpt from an inspirational quote that I found yesterday. Meeting, knowing, and interviewing talented and creative entrepreneurs have been an enlightening experience, and it seems that fear (whether it be of success, failure, etc...) remains a common theme that binds their experiences.

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous?..."
"Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do."
- Marianne Williamson

IE Tip 44: Blinksale.com: Send invoices online

2007-08-22T09:28:00.001-07:00

Invoicing clients is not a glamorous part of an entrepreneur's life, but it's a necessary evil. Through Blinksale, you can do it as painlessly and easily as possible. Blinksale is a free web application that allows you to send invoices online via email or through snail. You can customize your invoices to blend in with your business identity, or you can pick from their pre-made designs.

IE Tip 43: Cool Hunting.com: The Next Cool

2007-08-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

Looking for inspiration for your next product? Log on to Cool Hunting, a website which features daily updates on ideas and products in the intersection of art, design, culture and technology. It also features weekly videos that get an inside look at the people who create the trends.

Seminars and Crafts

2007-08-20T09:06:00.000-07:00

Prime Time Legal Series: Employment Issues: For entrepreneurs who are planning on hiring employees or independent contractors, this free seminar will cover hiring and terminating employees, discrimination, harassment, and other related topics. Located in Mountain View, CA. August 23, 2007.

Get Started on Your Free Podcast or Live Show: Seminar that will cover podcasting basics such as how to structure a podcast, record your show, edit/produce content, and promote and build an audience. Located in Seattle, WA. August 23, 2007.

Craft Saturday: local indie craft fair featuring handmade goodies. Located in Des Moines, IO. August 25, 2007.

CHia Handbags & Accessories

2007-08-17T08:16:00.000-07:00

For June Cheng, fashion is in her blood. June, the owner and designer behind CHia, was born in Taiwan to a family of jewelers. Her grandmother was not only a jewelry designer, but an avid collector of vintage handbags. From early on, June had learned to appreciate designing details through sketching handbags.

She was always amazed at watching her grandmother execute her sketches into individual pieces of art. As her grandmother taught June, “Do not be afraid of playing with colors and materials.” She keeps this philosophy in designing for CHia, her line of sophisticated and modern handbags.

Background
“After getting my MBA in Marketing, I’d started working as a business analyst for several years. My business background has always empowered me in many ways. I never feel I’d abandoned my business profession.”

“After working several years as a business analyst, I’d started asking myself if that was the life I desired for the next ten years. At that very moment, I’d picked up my pencils and started sketching again just like my grand mom did. In order to make my dreams into reality; I had spent three years in traveling and searching for unique materials to enrich my designs.”

CHia’s Typical Customer
“I always have a perfect vision in my mind for CHia, “chic and superb”.”

“CHia handbag was created to be modern, sophisticated and yet playful with a twist of European flair. Most of all, CHia reflects my life passion. It is the handbag line designed for today’s professional woman who knows how to make a fashion statement and appreciates superior quality.”

Being the Boss
“I have a couple of employees working for me right now. It was not easy to find the first employee. I’d contacted F.I.T. [Fashion Institute of Technology] career office for candidates. I also asked my friends for referrals. I guess it was difficult for me to set the boundaries between being a boss to my dear friend's older sister. Unfortunately fashion industry is all about the deadlines. Yes, we all look sophisticated to our customers. But, working in fashion is just not as glamorous as people think. There are no easy jobs on this planet. We all have to work hard to earn people’s trust and respect.”

Outsourcing
“I do have contractors who make our handbags for us. Our office is just a design house. I’d visited many tradeshows and asked for referrals. It’s all about meeting new people and getting connected.”

Low-Cost Advertising
“I try to update information about CHia through Facebook.”

Encountering Business Challenges
“There were many suppliers who didn’t want to deal with start up designers. I never gave up on finding my sources. I’d traveled to different countries to find unique materials for my designs. There were many contactors who just wanted to take advantages of new designers. It was difficult to negotiate. You have to shop around. I’d done so much research before I jumped into any decisions.”

“[It is also a challenge] getting people to know about me and CHia. In order for them to purchase my merchandise,I had to keep showing them my different collections. And keep my words on the delivery dates.”

Motivations
“Self fulfillment is the reason that motivates me, even though there are many challenges and difficulties I have to face everyday. I love what I’m doing.”

Recommended Business Resources
http://www.fashion.net/ http://www.handbagdesigner101.com/

Customers as Mentors
“Many of my customers are my mentors. I always cherish every single comment from my customers. That is just the way how we improve ourselves in this industry.”

Words of Advice-Never Give Up
“Never give up and do not be afraid of making mistakes. There is always something we could learn from making a mistake. That is the way we can improve ourselves and make a better decision next time. Try to talk to as many people as you can. I think being humble and open minded will be the key to future success.”

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Contact:

June Cheng
CHia Handbags
info@chiainc.net

IE Tip 42: KIVA: Loans That Change Lives

2007-08-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

Entrepreneurs know how hard it is to start, much less sustain a business. Help a fellow entrepreneur through KIVA, which directly connects you to an entrepreneur in a developing country. First, a lender picks a business and makes a loan using their credit card. KIVA transfers the funds to local partners, which distributes the loans to each business. Over time, the partner collects repayments and updates KIVA on the status of the business. Funds are then returned to the lender, who can withdraw the money or relend to another business.

IE Tip 41: Trunkt: Designer Collective

2007-08-15T10:00:00.001-07:00

Trunkt is an art and design collective of painters, illustrators, designers, and other creative entrepreneurs. It offers a virtual look book that its members can create and where readers and potential buyers can learn more about designer works and find direct links to their information. It offers two levels of membership: a free membership where members can show up to nine products, and a $99 annual membership where members can show an unlimited number of products. This is a great low-cost marketing tools for entrepreneurs who want to reach a broader market of potential buyers nationwide.

IE Tip 40: NOLO.com : Free Legal Resource

2007-08-14T10:02:00.000-07:00

Whether you're just starting out or have been in business for a while, you'll encounter legalities that are enough to make your head spin. What type of business structure should I have? How do I file for a trademark? Before forking your hard-earned profit to an attorney, head over to NOLO, a legal website filled with helpful free legal advice, as well as "plain English" legal documents for a small fee. And if you do need a lawyer, NOLO has a lawyer directory which you can narrow down by location and legal issue.

From Blogging to Marketing

2007-08-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

Speaking Engagement by Guy Kawasaki: Guy Kawasaki is the ultimate entrepreneur. He co-founded Truemors and is a managing director of Garage Technology Ventures. He is also a columnist for Entrepreneur Magazine, as well as the author of eight books including The Art of the Start, Rules for Revolutionaries, How to Drive Your Competition Crazy, Selling the Dream, and The Macintosh Way. Located in Palo Alto, CA. August 14, 2007.

Blogging for Beginners: from zero to Technorati in six hours: A personalized, hands-on workshop on how to create your blog, tweak the design, publish your post, and lots more. Then you’ll learn how to let Google and Technorati and other search engines know you exist, and begin to take part in the blogging community as a whole, including where to turn when you need help. Vancouver, BC. August 18 and August 25, 2007.

Marketing 101 for Small Businesses: Workshop will introduce you to the essentials of Marketing 101, such as refining your product, defining your target customer, and promoting. Located in Seattle, WA. August 15, 2007.

Entrepreneurs Go Online: Learn how to use new media to develop and market your products. Topics include podcasting, internet tv, publishing your own magazine, and self-distribution. Located in Austin, TX. August 17, 2007.

Truche/Trudesign

2007-08-10T08:16:00.000-07:00

Stephanie Koerner is the designer and owner of Truche, a line of colorful jewelry known for its modern designs with a vintage twist. Stephanie has been making jewelry and art for as long as she can remember, but started Truche a little over a year ago. When not dabbling in beads and jewelry, Stephanie doubles as a graphic and website designer under TruDesign.

Typical Customer
“My customers are normally women – all ages and sometimes men buying for their wife, girlfriend or family member.”

Juggling Work
“I work on Truche part time. I recently quit my full time job as a marketing director to go full time with my other business Trudesign – graphic & web design. I love both of my jobs, they are both my passion.”

Encountering Challenges
“It was hard for me to figure out what I wanted to sell. I spent a lot of time researching other people’s websites and blog and it was extremely motivating for me to get a jump start on creating jewelry and art. There are so many other indie artists that are willing to give you information and advice. It helped immensely.”

Selling Products
“I sell most of my products on my website . I also do consignment online and in stores in Michigan and Illinois. In the summer and fall I participate in local craft fairs such as The Renegade in Chicago.”

“I also consign through online stores like Modishoppe and Shop Calico,. So far I haven’t had any challenges, the transactions have been great. I have to keep up with what inventory I have where, but overall it’s been a great experience. There are some amazing store owners out there.”

Doing Craft Fairs
“I have done The Renegade craft fair in September and in December in Chicago. I loved this experience, I look forward to it all year and hope to do more craft shows this coming year. I also have a friend who owns a gallery space. I have had a few events at the space – it was a great experience. Both the fairs and the gallery events help me get my name out there. People are always more likely to buy when they can see my jewelry & art in person.”

Pricing Items
“I look at how much my supplies cost, how much time was spent on the item and try and price my jewelry competitively in the market. It’s hard at times because there are so many jewelry designers out there that price there pieces so low. I try and create one of a kind pieces that are unique so that I can price my items higher.”

Motivated by…
“So many things: nature, rain, other artists, my mother, Etsy, colors”

Recommended Business Resources
“I use The Switchboards and Get Crafty a lot. I get a lot of information from fellow bloggers as well.”

Inspired by…
Nature, old buildings and architecture, blogs, art, thunderstorms. I could go on and on…

Words of Advice- Motivation, Inspiration, and Fun Comes Together
“Try and stay motivated and inspired. Spend some time reading other people’s blogs that have their own businesses. Check out The Switchboards. Have others critique your website before it goes live. Get a good web and graphic designer, this is the 1st thing people see and it should represent you and your brand. And have fun!”

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Contact:

Stephanie Koerner

Truche

Trudesign

Chicago, IL

IE Tip 39: OpenCourse Ware : College Education for Free

2007-08-09T08:30:00.000-07:00

Getting educated shouldn't have to cost you $40,000 a year. OpenCourse Ware allows access to free, education resources to anyone with access to the internet. These programs provide readings, lecture notes, projects, and other materials to many different courses, all for free. I went to MIT's OpenCourse Ware and found a myriad of different courses of interest to indie entrepreneurs: Law for the Entrepreneur and Manager,
Negotiation and Conflict Management, Introduction to Marketing, and Entrepreneurial Marketing. OpenCourse Ware is also available through the University of California at Irvine, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Notre Dame.

IE Tip 38: AnnualCreditReport.com

2007-08-08T08:58:00.000-07:00

As entrepreneurs, you may need to someday get a loan or a line of credit from a bank. Keep your finances in perfect health by keeping close watch on your credit history and catching minor problems before they turn into financial disasters. With AnnualCreditReport.com, you can request a free credit report, once every 12 months, from each of the nationwide consumer credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

IE Tip 37: Art Business Institute: Get Educated

2007-08-07T09:13:00.001-07:00

The Art Business Institute is an educational organization the provides artists with real-world knowledge of business. It offers workshops on product development, pricings, public relations, accounting, and more. The organization partners with regional arts and economic development organizations in the U.S. and Canada.

Mignonette

2007-08-03T08:22:00.001-07:00

Mignonette, which is French for “cute girl,” is a fitting name for a company dedicated to making clothing designed to make women feel girly, cute, and modern. Kpoene Kofi-Bruce, the owner and designer behind Mignonette, unites patterns and fabrics in unique combinations, or reclaims a piece of fabric in unexpected ways. She strives to use reclaimed or recycled fabric and trims in her pieces in order to maximize the feel-good factor of wearing her clothes.

Starting Mignonette
“I started Mignonette in 2003 after a bad experience freelancing for a major company. I decided that I wanted to challenge big business by creating a high-quality, viable product line that would appeal to hip young women. I drew on my background as a costume designer and obsessive fashion-mag reader and started creating designs that I wanted to wear and hoped others would like as well. Since then I’ve been featured in magazines, done tons of indie fashion shows and craft fairs, and tried to build community with other business owners through the collective I started, the Ladies Independent Design League.”

Catering to the Artistic Fashionista
“My typical customer is between 22-35, with an artistic bent. She loves fashion and knows what looks good on her but doesn’t want to always get her clothing at the same places that everyone else shops. She puts herself together with funky one-off pieces or vintage accessories to make a design her own. She loves a bargain and shops constantly because she never knows when she might find an amazing deal, too – hmm…my typical customer sounds just like me!”

Background for Mignonette
“I have worked Fashion Week, designed for the largest purveyor of hip urban apparel in the nation, and made costumes for companies of dancers. I think that my experience as a woman who needed cute, appropriate clothes for daily life made me a good judge of what women, especially those of us who aren’t built like dressmakers forms, require. My pieces have room for busts, hips, booties, and arms.”

“I like to think that my years as an administrator gave me good insight into how to research the industry and keep track of my competition.”

On Outsourcing
“I only recently began outsourcing my pieces to an offsite assistant because I’ve been getting store orders and wedding dress orders and can’t sew everything myself. I would like to figure out a way to get more help and pay them fairly – maybe develop a Project Alabama-style sewing coop to work on my items. It’s a tough decision because I really want to maintain the handmade touches on the clothing while getting greater exposure.”

Business Challenges
“When I first started out, it was really lonely and confusing trying to figure out what I needed to know to make the business work. Living in New York means constantly having to prove yourself against thousands of more established companies and designers all fighting over the same resources. In a way, being in the fashion capital of the world has been the most challenging part of all – its always discouraging opening a magazine and seeing that your competition beat you to the punch with press or even just good design ideas.”

“I haven’t entirely gotten over these challenges but I try to keep ahead of my competition – I read the Wall Street Journal every day and subscribe to about 9 magazines. I also read tons of blogs and am a member of sites like the Switchboards. Honestly, the best advice I can give is to find a support network. I couldn’t find one so I created one with the Ladies Independent Design League.”

The Power of Research
“I ask other indie designers about their experiences with stores and do research online. If I am visiting a city I try to setup visits with store buyers and also check out shopping guides like Lucky and local chambers of commerce or blogs.”

Marketing Products
“Right now I am developing a plan to aggressively pursue blogs and websites aimed at the plus-size market because there are so few outlets for women over size 10 to find great clothes. It has only been about a month so I don’t know if this approach will work yet. I am also doing lots of craft fairs and markets to get the word out. It has actually been a great way to streamline the designs because people can try items on and give me feedback.”

Low-Cost Advertising
“My websites are in my email signature, and I also keep a mailing list. I always have cards with me and if I can’t hand them to people I leave them in coffee shops and clubs so people will pick them up. The Switchboards and Glitter are great ways to get people to look at your site too.”

Recommended Business Resources
“The Switchboards, Ladies Independent Design League, Get Crafty, the Crafty Bastards Blog, the Sampler, Design Sponge – these are all great resources.”

Inspired By…
“Women on the street – I know that’s a cliché answer, but I live in New York so I really see a huge variety of individual styles every day.”

Mentors
Grace Bonney from Design Sponge, Grace Wang from Unsung Designers.

Words of Advice-No Fear
“Don’t give up! Find other women in your area who are doing what you want to do and ask them questions. Don’t be afraid – they’ll be happy to help you out.”

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Contact:

Kpoene Kofi-Bruce

Mignonette

IE Tip 36: The Anti 9-to-5 Guide: Get Out of the Cube

2007-08-02T08:28:00.001-07:00

Itching to get out of your cramped cubicle and into the freedom of entrepreneurship? Tune in to Michelle Goodman's Anti 9-to-5 Guide, which contains tips on taking the plunge into self-employment, entrepreneurship, or freelancing. Michelle herself took the plunge in 1992 and is now a freelance writer for publications such as Salon, Bitch, and Bust.

IE Tip 35: Craft Memo: Be Organized

2007-07-31T08:47:00.000-07:00

If you're an jewelry, clothing, or other craft designer, you know how overwhelming your supplies and tools can be. Enter Craft Memo, an easy-to-use record keeping and management system specially designed for craft enthusiasts. With this system, you can organize and keep track of your craft goodies and generate lists of inventory, where it was purchased, and what you need for a project. Some features include ability to upload images of your craft supplies and projects, and ability to import and export data from financial applications such as Quickbooks. A powerful tool for busy entrepreneurs!

Craft Fair, Freelancing

2007-07-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

Detroit Urban Craft Fair: alternative craft fair featuring independent DIY artists and designers. Located in Detroit, MI. August 4, 2007.

Breaking into Freelancing: Workshop course on how to present yourself as a writer, pitch stories, and target publications. Located in Los Angeles, CA. August 4, 2007.

2 Fresh Petunias

2007-07-27T00:57:00.000-07:00

Stephanie Ignazio of 2 Fresh Petunias creates colorful purses, totes, and accessories in a myriad of designs and colors. Stephanie is inspired by her two daughters, her "Fresh Petunias", as evident by the sweetness and fun that she incorporates in each design. According to Stephanie, 2 Fresh Petunias is all about surrounding yourself with things that make you happy. For her, its her two little girls, her supportive husband, fresh flowers and fabric..and a healthy dose of glitter for extra sparkle!

The Beginning of a Business
"I met another mother at a party one afternoon. Her daughter was dressed in the most beautiful vintage chenille outfit I had ever seen. Complete with satin bows and a flower in her hair. Suddenly, I became obsessed with finding an outfit for my own daughter. At home, I had a large collection of vintage fabrics and ribbons that I had begun gathering as a college student. I never knew what I wanted to do with them, but I knew that I loved them! After looking on the web and realizing that those types of outfits were a bit out of my price range. I decided to make one myself. That first outfit turned into 2, then 3 and so on. As I took my daughter places, other mothers started asking where I had gotten her outfit and word spread. I was now in business."

From Dresses to Purses
One of my clients at the time told me that if I ever made purses using my fabrics she would love to buy one. A few nights later I sat down and worked out a pattern for my first purse. Rushing to a party one night I grabbed it and by the end of the party I was known as the “one who makes the purses”. A few days later I got a call asking if I would do one of my “custom purse parties”. Not sure where that idea had come from I knew that it would be the perfect way to spread the word about my new business. One party turned into 5, 10 and 20 and the next logical step was to set up a website so that women who couldn’t come to the parties could still order their own custom bag. Soon after the children’s custom clothing aspect of the business was no longer. I was too busy with purse orders. 2 ½ years later I no longer do custom purse parties and rely totally on website sales. Occasionally I love to participate in women’s shopping nights at friends homes. It’s a great way to test out new styles and meet new clients."

Inspired by Her Own 2 Little Petunias
"I have 2 little girls for which the business is named. Julia is 5 and Mia is 3 ½. Balancing a business and young children is a true challenge. There are many times I feel that one or the other is getting short-changed. However, I am growing the business along with them as they grow... One thing I dream about is that there will be a published book that tells you how to balance a creative career with children fabulously with no guilt. Perhaps that’s my next project!"

Background for Business
"I have a degree in Fashion Design, my K-9 Art Education Teaching Certificate and my Masters Degree in Art Education. Before having my girls I worked as an elementary art teacher and a muralist. What makes me laugh is that when I graduated from college I put my sewing machine away and didn’t touch it for at least 10 years! Since then I have bought 3 more."

The Joy of Creating
"At one point I found myself creating items that I knew would sell. I was working so hard to please clients that I lost track of my own inspiration. At the same time to gather more buyers I was making way too many different items. It became overwhelming. After taking some time to think I decided to drop those things that were really just “fillers”. I stopped doing custom work and only offered items that were one of a kind and small multiples. Once I did this I found new energy to create and some of those items are my bestsellers to date."

Wholesaling Products
"Originally I did not plan on wholesaling. I really wanted to keep my product line to my own website. But bit by bit, I was getting calls and inquiries from shops so I decided to do it on a small scale. Most shops find me thru searches on the internet for handmade bags, belts, etc. My first wholesale account nearly doubled my minimum requirement, which was such a great feeling. Nowadays I take a look at the shop who is inquiring to see if it would be a good fit and go with my gut. I do like the fact that wholesaling has expanded my presence in different places."

Collective Marketing
"I am a member of Indie Finds. Belonging to this group has allowed me to market to different venues that I would not be able to afford on my own. Being in group ads has been wonderful press and marketing for 2 fresh petunias .I found out early on that mass (paper) mailings just do not do it for me so I don’t send out anything other than a newsletter. Its all trial and error. Being on blogs has been a wonderful addition to marketing. I get a lot of traffic from interviews I have done and shopping guide placements as well."

A Balancing Act
"Balancing [the business] with my children lives and family life. There are moments when I feel like I am ready to go full throttle forward with the business, but that isn’t really possible with two young children. Once they get into school full time, I will evaluate where I want to head with the business. I would also like to take some thinking time and test out some new ideas that I have been sketching. Finding time to just “play” is a tough one to schedule."

Recommended Business Resources
"Another Girl At Play was the first website I found when I was thinking about going into business. So many wonderful stories and tidbits from women who are making their business dreams come true. The Switchboards was my second stop and the amount of fabulously helpful information there is just amazing. It was so wonderful to find other women entrepreneurs who were willing to help each other out.

Inspirations
"I can get inspired from just about anything that I come into contact with. I love reading decorating magazines, sometimes just a color combination alone will send me to my sketchbook. I love anything and everything handmade so I am constantly seeking out other creators. Just by taking a look at a painting or an illustration or a cool photograph I can get ideas of my own. I especially love vintage styling and love to go antiquing. Vintage fashion is one of my slight obsessions! I carry my sketchbook at all times."

Words of Advice - Be True to Your Heart
"Don’t sell yourself short. As a creator you will be most successful if you are doing something that really makes your heart sing. Don’t create items that are fillers just to get more sales. It just comes off as non-genuine. Be inspired by others, but do not try to recreate and imitate what they are doing. Be respectful of your time. Don’t charge less than what your items are worth. (I learned this the hard way early on. I was originally selling my items for what my wholesalers now pay!) Take time to grow your business and don’t be afraid to change your focus as you grow. Read as much as you can about other successful entrepreneurs but realize that you are unique and need to follow your own voice and dictate. Some businesses will grow steadily, some others will jump to the moon in a day. Do what is comfortable for you."

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Contact:

Stephanie Ignazio

2 Fresh Petunias

info@2freshpetunias.com

IE Tip 34: TheSwitchboards.com: Your Connection To Creativity

2007-07-25T08:43:00.000-07:00

One of my all-time favorite online resources, TheSwitchboards.com is a wonderful resource for creative entrepreneurs. TheSwitchboards forum is made of up of a community of mostly women entrepreneurs who generously offer helpful business tips, personal advice, as well as support to their fellow entrepreneurs. Join now and be a part of this awesome group!

IE Tip 33: Trendwatching.com: Keeping Up with Trends

2007-07-24T08:37:00.001-07:00

Run by an independent consumer trends firm, Trendwatching.com relies on more than 8,000 trendhunters all over the world. Its monthly trend briefing report is a gem, keeping you in pace with the latest trends and inspiration. A must have marketing tool for indie entrepreneurs!

Networking, Podcasting, and Fashion

2007-07-23T08:57:00.001-07:00

How to Pitch Yourself at Business and Networking Events: Learn the art of pitching yourself and your products. Located in New York, NY. July 24, 2007.

Accelerated Networking Reception for Businesswomen: A reception for business owners, entrepreneurs, and sales professionals in need of marketing and networking opportunities. Sponsored by eWomenNetwork. Located in New York, NY. July 25, 2007.

The Power of Podcasting: Learn the power of podcasting for entrepreneurs, artists, and performers. Located in New York, NY. July 28, 2007.

Fashion Coop: Designer show featuring emerging designers showcasing their products. Located in Los Angeles, CA. July 28, 2007.

Anna Bella Stationery

2007-07-19T14:54:00.000-07:00

Meet Dawn Marie Viola, the creator and creative director behind Anna Bella Stationery, an online design studio and stationery boutique offering its own brand of stationery and paper products, custom wedding invitations, birth announcements, and a casual collection of occasion invitations. Anna Bella was launched in January of 2006, first selling products for moms and kids, after which it expanded a few months later to include wedding and occasion invitations. Anna Bella is a home-based, woman-owned, indie business.

The Anna Bella Customer
“We’ve got a little something for everyone, so other than being mostly women, we don’t really have a typical customer. Every once in a while we’ll be pleasantly surprised by a helpful groom who is sending messages on behalf of his bride-to-be, but other than that, we mostly sell to women of all ages, all lifestyles – it’s wonderful.”

Background
“I have a bachelor’s degree in graphic design and worked in advertising as a creative director and copywriter for 15 years before starting my career in stationery design. Although it was complete torture at the time, my previous business lessons really set me up for success with Anna Bella – the design part was always very natural and easy for me, but the business side had always a bit of a vague mystery.”

“When I first began Anna Bella, I worked full time as a designer and copywriter for Disney and ESPN. After about 6 months, I went to part time hours. Then in April, 2007, I was able to work for myself full time. I supplement with copywriting services and affordable mentoring services for women wanting to start their own stationery business, but for the most part, I rely on stationery sales.”

Start-up Challenges
“The idea of starting a business is simple, but when you really sit down and start to map everything out, it can become absolutely overwhelming. My biggest challenge, which I still struggle with today, is the best way to organize my products and web site so that it makes ordering as easy as possible for customers. I’m always moving products around and streamlining the ordering system to be better organized and make better sense to customers.”

“The other challenge I face is time management and staying focused. It’s super easy to get lost in answering emails – before I know it, I’m 10 pages deep into blog surfing because I opened a Google Alert email with a favorite key word. I had to learn to be my own whip-cracker and give myself time limits on breaks, surfing and research during my work day.”

“Owning your own business can be lonely at times, too, especially for a home-based or small business. I don’t see people (other than my family) very often because I’m so busy working at the computer or packing and shipping orders.”

“ I want everything to happen fast. But for things to happen fast, you need money. Starting out with no money and having a limited budget, makes things happen at a snail’s pace.”

Pricing your Work
“I first figure out my cost to produce the product – this includes paper, printing, supplies, and design time. I then compare that to retail prices for like products to be sure I’m not about to over price the item or under price it. If I notice a product is not selling well, I’ll change the price – and not necessarily to something lower. There is a good amount of psychology involved in pricing products and how consumers perceive the value of what they’re purchasing. Sometimes you just need to put the price up or down by a few cents or even dollars and see what the consumer accepts.”

Marketing on a Shoestring
“Marketing on a budget has become a way of life for me. I am a copywriter as well as a designer, which comes in handy when it comes to PR.”

“I literally send dozens of emails every week with product updates and information about our company. I utilize email blast campaigns to past/present/future customers and editorial contacts. And I send out a lot of samples to relevant trade and consumer magazines. The samples often result in free editorial – with advertising rates so high, I rely heavily on free editorial.”

“And again, there is no secret formula to this. I’m often asked how my products got onto a certain blog or how I was able to be on Martha Stewart Radio. I didn’t do any tricks or hoop jumping – I simply sent an email with a short (very short) proposal.”

Forecasting Trends
“People laugh when I tell them this, but if you want to know what the next stationery trend will be, look to JC Penny, Macy’s and similar department stores. The reason I say this is because stationery trends are dictated very much by fashion trends. Anchor department stores want to offer their customers the latest trends at relatively affordable prices, so they consolidate all of the high-end manufacturers’ design ideas and patterns into one dummied-down collection of clothing, hand bags, etc. The department store has essentially done all of the market research for you and placed it all, nice and neat, in the women’s sportswear or hosiery department.”

“I am constantly looking at style blogs and other stationery manufacturers – not only for trends in stationery, but also so I’m not duplicating efforts when I create new products. I’m also a big copyright advocate, so I like to be familiar with what other manufacturers are creating - kind of keeping an eye out for them as well as myself.”

An Artist’s Challenge
“I’m very critical of my work and very self conscious about it – I often second guess every new product I put out there because, essentially, I’m being judged on it. That’s a scary concept for an artist or craftsperson because the work is very personal and often an extension of themselves.”

Motivated By…
“The desire to help people…the love of graphic design and the entire collaborative design process…the need to do something good for people and with my life. Fame, fortune (kidding…sort of).”

Recommended Business Resources
“Anyone who is opening a creative business needs to read the following: How to Get Your Point Across in 30 Seconds or Less, The E-Myth Revisited and Creatively Self Employed.”

Words of Advice-Live, Love, and Learn
“Don’t start a business unless you love the work you’ll be doing. The beginning stages will consume you, so it really needs to be a labor of love. "

"Self education is so important. Learn absolutely everything you can about your craft, from concept to finished product. Then, learn everything you can about your industry. "

"Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and ask questions – the worst that can happen is you may not receive a response or they will say, “No” to answering your questions."

"Network, network, network! Join organizations in your area that will benefit you, then go to the meetings and talk to people.”

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Contact:

Dawn Marie Viola

Anna Bella Stationery

info@annabellastationery.com

IE Tip 32: United States Patent and Trademark Office

2007-07-18T08:54:00.000-07:00

Interested in protecting your business trademark or copyrighting your work? Head to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, which contains basic information on the process, definitions on what qualifies for a trademark or copyright, as well as official forms you need to get started.

Art and Craft Workshop

2007-07-16T09:08:00.001-07:00

All About Art and Craft Shows: Workshop led by Tasha McKelvey, who will teach the ins and outs of craft shows- from picking the right shows for your work, photographing work, product packaging, building or buying display equipment, day-of-the-show checklists, and accepting credit cards at shows. Located in Brooklyn, NY. July 22, 2007.

Bel Bacio Jewelry

2007-07-13T08:16:00.000-07:00

Megan of Bel Bacio Jewelry creates sparkling delicate baubles with feminine and unique details. Her jewelry items are constructed with the finest materials- genuine semi-precious gemstones, pearls, Balinese beads, Swarovski crystals, sterling silver and gold filled components. Every pearl and gemstone are hand picked for each piece of jewelry.

Here she shares her business journey:

Background
"I have a gemological degree from the Gemological Institute of America. I was working at a small mom and pop fine jewelry store and was hired as a gemologist. The business was slow so I decided to move on, I needed a little more excitement. So I started working on my jewelry line and looked for a new line of work for the mean time."

Craft Show Experience
"I have done 3 craft shows. My first show was great, I had a lot of compliments and a lot of wonderful customers. My last 2 shows were pretty sad. The last show I did was the worst, I only sold two items and one of them was from a friend. I was set up next to another jewelry seller who sold pre-made mass produced jewelry.”

Low-Cost/Free Advertising
“I advertise on a few indie websites that bring in quite a few visitors. The fee is pretty low and the customers that shop on those sites want to shop indie.”

Business Challenges
"My most challenging part of starting my own business has been finding the right avenue for advertising without breaking the bank. I am always looking for more options."

"[Another challenge is] separating myself from the rest. There are a lot of jewelry designers out there so finding your own style and niche can be difficult sometimes.”

Motivation
“It motivates me to know that I can be successful; it is just working harder and be more and more creative.”

Recommended Business Resources
"SCORE is a great website that offers wonderful information for small business owners. They have one on one meetings free of charge and all kinds of templates to use like business plans. SCORE stands for Service Corps of Retired Executives, they really know what they are talking about.”

Words of Advice-Think and Navigate
“ Think about your options (websites, advertising, product, etc) and make sure that you find the best way to navigate your plan. I didn't think to much into advertising or how it worked and I wish I had read more about it.”

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Contact:

Megan
Bel Bacio Jewelry

IE Tip 31: Workit.com

2007-07-11T13:09:00.000-07:00

Looking for business and networking events? Workit.com contains a chockfull of event information on entrepreneurship, legal and intellectual property, and sales, to name a few. Events are sponsored by different non-profit organizations, government agencies, or law firms. Most of the events are located in San Francisco and the Bay area.

IE Tip 30: PR Web

2007-07-10T08:49:00.000-07:00

Slaved over your press release and dying to share it to the world? Submit it to PR Web, and get your message across to media professionals, journalists, news sites, and search engines. Fees depend upon the desired visibility of your press release-their most expensive package, the Media Visibility Package for $360, ensures that your press release make front page headlines and includes enhanced reporting features that allow you to geographically map your readers.
This level contains all the features and tools from the other packages plus distribution through the AP, Feature Video and enhanced reporting features that allow you to map your readers geographically and tools to easily create and export distribution reports.

Workshops, Networking

2007-07-09T09:48:00.000-07:00

Should I Start a Business: Do you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur? This seminar sponsored by the SCORE Silicon Valley will discuss
the personal characteristics and capabilities that are needed to succeed in business. Seminar will discuss requirements to succeed in business and the SCORE resources for getting advice and help. This seminar may be the start of a new and exciting adventure for you. Sponsored by SCORE. Located in San Jose, CA. July 10, 2007.

Kernspiracy: A Place For Designers to Share Secrets: Another get together for Kernspiracy, a community peer support group for designeres and other creative professionals. Located in Los Angeles, CA. July 11, 2007.

The Power of the Press Release - How Do You Get Your Story Covered by the Media? Workshop targeted towards small and indie business owners on how to use and write a press release efficiently to promote a business. Located in Seattle, WA. July 11, 2007.

Felt Club XL Event: Craft featuring handmade goods, including handbags, jewelry, paper products, clothing, and more. Located in Los Angeles, CA. July 15, 2007.

If'n Books

2007-07-05T13:14:00.001-07:00

Deb Dormody of If’n Books creates beautiful journals and albums, which she promises to “guarantee miracles in every bite.” There is something special about her products, which are lovingly handmade and created using vintage and contemporary bookbinding techniques and equipment.

Her continuous search for unique book coverings also led her to commission artists to create exclusive designs for If’n Books. This collaboration helps strengthen the network of independent artists and provides an opportunity for artists to showcase their work.

Beginning of Bookbinding
“I first started bookbinding in high school when my public high school art teacher introduced us to a simple Japanese stab binding. It just clicked with me immediately and inspired me to go home and disassemble a few atlases and dictionaries so I could examine how they were made. I made some pretty horrific books back then. But now I make awesome ones and sell my journals and albums to about 200 stores nationwide and a smattering of stores around the world.”

Typical Customer
“My typical customer is someone who perhaps wore Garanimals or Underoos, has definitely sipped a Capri-Sun at some point, appreciates minute details and fine craftsmanship (and is maybe even snotty about it), and prefers to keep their secrets written down rather than blathering them out to everyone in the whole entire world.”

Background in Business
“I went full-time with the business just as 1999 was turning into 2000. I quit my job as Marketing Director of a craft gallery and said “No thank you” to such frivolities as a 40 hour work week, dining out regularly, and health insurance. Instead, I said an emphatic “Yes!” to 80 hour weeks, hand-numbing work and poverty-level income. I super love it. And thankfully the extremes have mellowed a bit in the ensuing years.”

“Having worked on the store-end before selling to stores really helped me understand what’s helpful to a buyer and how to package things. And seeing sales reps in action made it clear what their needs are too.”

On Hiring Employees
“[M]y first employee’s very first day was September 11, 2001. And because she has a brother who was a pilot who frequently flew out of Boston, it was extra-tumultuous. He was fine, but it made for a bit of a rocky beginning.”

“Everyone that I’ve hired or who has been my intern has come to me through a personal connection. While working with friends or acquaintances can be tough for some entrepreneurs, it’s definitely been important to me. Since this business is so much my baby, I don’t want just any babysitting joker to be a part of it. I want to work with someone who gets the whole picture.”

Outsourcing
“I contract out for the text blocks (sewn pages) for my Corace Journals . I developed that product because I wanted to have an item at a lower price point in my line to balance out the finer – and pricier handbound work. This way I can still offer a product that is primarily handmade since it is hand-printed and hand-numbered in an edition."

Meeting and Overcoming Challenges
“Nobody ever warned me ahead of time that it makes the whole entrepreneurial process totally easier if you are already rich. Not sure why that didn’t occur to me. The challenge never really goes away either when you are creating products for which you have to buy supplies in order to make the items you are selling. I have seen that lesson played out in larger hand binderies as well. It’s just that the bigger you get the more zeroes there are behind the positive and negative numbers.”

“I have certainly made adjustments over time though. Particularly by reducing the amount of labor-intensive books there are in my line and streamlining efficient work methods. That absolutely made a difference – and my aching shoulders thanked me for the change too.”

Dealing with Wholesale Accounts
“Mostly I get wholesale requests through my site. I have a form that buyers can fill out. I used to have a fancy package that I would put together and mail out to those requesting wholesale info. But I found that became a low priority for me because it was so time-intensive and I would only send them out once every few months. How terribly ineffective! So I streamlined it all and now when they submit their info, I check it out and send them an email with my terms and a link to a downloadable pdf that has my line sheet and an order form. So easy! And much faster turnaround for sales.”

Shopping/Gift Shows
“I’ve done the NY Gift Show with my rep. I have since stopped working with her (as part of my labor decreasing systems) but maintain the accounts I got through those shows.”

Marketing
“I generally develop and introduce new wholesale products twice a year. When I do, I send out press releases via email to magazines, blogs and newspapers; and online via PR Web and I mail a handful of press kits. I could definitely improve the frequency and breadth of these campaigns. It’s on the To Do list. Right next to “Give those gigantic boxes of scrap paper you’ve been hoarding to the teacher resource center immediately.”

Low-Cost Advertising
“I’ve been involved with co-op advertising groups which I think are a brilliant example of the great community we’re in. I also have a Flickr page in lieu of a blog so that people can see the sparkling personality behind the scenes of my work. There are always deals to be had for making promos like business cards and pins and then distributing those to other crafty types. It’s one big family really…I also help organize a craft show called Craftland that assists in the bigger picture.”

Motivated by…
“I really love going to work almost everyday and doing what I do. So the idea of the alternative to that keeps me going. Also pressing deadlines for orders keep me on task.”

Inspired by…
“Libraries, snacks, DIY aesthetics/ethics, Lynda Barry’s dialogue, good music, worrying, the productivity of my fancy friends, Joseph Cornell’s collages, lying down and thinking for long periods of time…”

“There are plenty of people who I [also] find inspirational: Jen Corace and Alec Thibodeau (who doubles as my honey) are the tops. Unrelated to my business are some all-around swell gals: Sarah from The Small Object Faythe from Flying Fish (and Paper Boat Boutique, and the Indie Craft Documentary ), and Ileana from India Romeo. And Providence itself is a community filthy with nice people doing amazing and inspirational things, like tinyshowcase.com!”

Words of Advice-Combine Uniqueness and Efficiency
“Find a way to make things unique to you. And then figure out how to make them in an efficient way. And be particular and concise when asking for advice. Don’t forget to take deep breaths frequently too.”

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Contact:

Deb Dormody
If'n Books
info@ ifnbooks.com

IE Tip 29: Co-op America

2007-07-05T08:37:00.001-07:00

Co-opAmerica is a non-profit organization that promotes green and fair trade business principles as well as build sustainable communities in the U.S. and abroad. Entrepreneurs with "green businesses" (and they have their specific guidelines of what a green business is) can join the Co-op America's Business Network, which is dedicated to helping socially and environmentally responsible businesses emerge and thrive to form a global green economy. Some membership benefits include free listing in the National Green Pages (like the Yellow Pages), special discounts, media expoure, and advertising opportunities.

Art and Craft Shows

2007-07-02T12:11:00.000-07:00

Art vs.Craft: Craft show featuring local as well as out-of-state designers showing a range of handmade goodies. Located in Milwaukee, WI. July 7-8,2007.

Art to Go DIY Show and Tell: Craft show featuring some of your favorite artists. Located in Burlington, VT. July 6, 2007.

Sophie & Spice

2007-06-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

Jill Pearson is the designer behind Sophie and Spice, a business which offers delightful things for your little ones, including baby bibs, tees, bodysuits, and name tags. She also offers mom calling cards, as well as customized photo collages in canvas and print. Jill is a professional illustrator and designer who, after having her first baby Sophie, was inspired to create things for her daughter. Quickly realizing a new creative outlet, Sophie and Spice was born!

Background in Illustration

"I have a BFA in Illustration from The University of the Arts in Philadelphia. After college I did a lot of editorial illustration, which required me to market my "brand" of illustration. I think that really sparked an entrepreneurial spirit in me, and gave me the skills to get my products out there. I'm able to do all of my own design work, including my website, which saves me a tremendous amount of money."

Balancing Work and Business
"Sophie is only one now, so I am able to work during her nap and before she gets up in the morning. I also do some work when my husband is home. If I am very busy, then one of the grandmoms or a babysitter helps me out. It¹s really the best of both worlds, though it can be tough at times."

Outsourcing Products
"All of my products are printed, so I use a number of different companies.
Since it would require a lot of capital to purchase the necessary printers
to create my products, I felt that it was best to focus my available funds
on advertising."

Financing a Business

"Sophie and Spice is run under the wing of Jill Pearson Illustration and Design. I've been gradually adding more products and doing more advertising as I go. Since I have income coming in from the other freelance design work I do (mainly kids sports posters for photographers), I have not needed to take any loans to get things going. I already had a computer, home office, etc for my main business and my products are all made to order, so there was no investment in bulk ordering supplies. As I mentioned above, I do all of my own design work as well, including my website."

Pricing Items

"I take the production cost, my time involvement, and competitor's prices for similar products into account."

Marketing Products

"I use search engine optimization, Google Adwords, and write ups on blogs. I target my SEO and Adwords towards specific products. I find that when people do a web search for a certain product, they are usually more serious about buying it."

Low Cost Advertising

"Any kind of sites that offer free listings, press releases, etc. are a great way to get the word out there. I have found that Google will pick up content from some of these sites."

Business Challenges
"I wish I had more time to work on things, I have so many plans for products but with the other work I do, I simply don't have 8 hours a day to work on it. I also wish I wasn't so nervous about investing more money into advertising my business."

Motivated by...
"My family [who] believes in me, and love for what I do."

Recommended Business Resources

"The Switchboards.com (for creative women in business), the Ispot (for illustration), and the Graphics Artists Guild. "

Words of Advice-Love Your Work

"Find something you love to do and it will never feel like work. If you plan to sell on the web, spend money on creating a professional looking website before advertising it. There is no sense in shelling out money to advertise a site that customers won't want to buy things from."

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Contact:

Jill Pearson

Sophie and Spice

IE Tip 28: Indie Beauty Network

2007-06-28T09:06:00.000-07:00

The Indie Beauty Network is a business organization founded in 2000 by Donna Maria Coles Johnson to serve indie businesses manufacturing beauty products such as soaps, cosmetics, fragrances, candles, and aromatherapy products. Although you have to be a member to participate in some of the benefits that they offer such as products liability insurance, it is still fun to browse the website, which is chockfull of information on product suppliers, beauty recipes, and entrepreneur success stories.

Also check out Donna's blog, which offers insightful personal stories and anecdotes and how they relate to running an indie business.

IE Tip 27: Craft and Hobby Association

2007-06-27T08:59:00.000-07:00

The Craft and Hobby Association (CRA) is a trade organization that has been serving the craft and hobby industry since 2004. For entrepreneurs in the craft and industry market, the CRA is an invaluable resource for industry research material, seminars, and workshops relating to running a crafts business. In response to the increased interest in crafting over the years, the CRA has released a number of research projects, including information on popular craft activities, consumer buying habits, crafts and education, and other information pertinent to the crafts industry. Check out the RESEARCH section of the website - some articles require you to be a paid member, but some interesting articles such as The Impact of Hispanic Crafters on the U.S. Craft Industry is free to the public.

IE Tip 26: Sk-rt.com

2007-06-26T16:26:00.000-07:00

Do you have any websites, articles, parenting tips, food, and whatever else that you would like to share with other women? Submit them to Sk*rt. If Sk*rt users like what you submit, they can vote on it...and the more votes, the more likely your submission will make it on the front page. Front page submissions are seen by everybody- which is great free publicity for your product, website, blog.

Legal Workshops and Seminars

2007-06-25T08:39:00.000-07:00

The Business of Art: A workshop to discuss the legal and business concerns relevant to visual artists who are setting up or restructuring their business, such as formation, structure, marketing and insurance. Located in Oakland, CA. June 28, 2007.

Primetime Legal Series: Trademarks: Free and open to the public seminar on trademarks. Sponsored by ASTIA. Located in Mountain View, CA. June 28, 2007.

Lil' Sugarplum

2007-06-22T08:40:00.000-07:00

Monique of Lil’ Sugarplum creates delicate accessories for your little one-from scarves, hair clips, bobby pins, and headbands to suit every little one’s fancy. Her inspiration behind Lil’ Sugarplum is her two beautiful children. It began with the idea of wanting to make her daughter a baby bracelet and her son a cap… and the result of this endeavor? A thriving business called Lil’ Sugarplum!

Balancing Parenthood and Business
“I try to do as much of the business while the kids are napping or sleeping at night. On weekends I can do a little more when my husband is home to play with them. I purposely keep my business small and manageable so it doesn’t interfere with my family or children.”

Background-From Teaching to Making
“I have a teaching credential. I stopped teaching right before my son was born. The plan was always to stay home with my kids since the credential would always be there for me."

"I like to think I have good customer service skills and I enjoy hearing my customers talk about their children.

Business Challenges
“Lack of time and knowledge….The time issue never went away but for the knowledge part, I just researched my field all over the internet until I knew as much as I possibly could.”

Landed First Wholesale Account by…
“Walking into stores and introducing myself, e-mailing various store owners until someone said yes!”

Marketing and Advertising
“I check out The Switchboards a lot for all the free PR opportunities. I check out events locally to see how I can advertise too. [I also market through] well established blogs with lots of traffic!”

Motivated by…
“Providing a better future for my children and hearing the glowing feedback from my customers.”

Mentors and inspirations
“ My family and stay-at-home mom business owners.”

Recommended Business Resources
“I check out lots of messages boards—The Switchboards and Etsy. I also search the net for information… but I wish I had time to read more books.”

Words of Advice-Keep Passion and Fun Alive
“Be passionate about what you are about to embark on, have fun with it and be dedicated!”
--------------------
Contact:

Monique
Lil’ Sugarplum
info@lilsugarplum.com

IE Tip 25: Statcounter.com

2007-06-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

Optimize and improve your website traffic by knowing where your hits are coming from. With Statcounter.com, you can track your website stats for free, includign a highly configurable and invisible hit counter that you can insert on your webpage or blog. Get real-time detailed webstats and get the ability to analyze and monitor your website visitors in real-time.

IE Tip 24: Box.net-Access Your Files Easily

2007-06-20T09:59:00.000-07:00

You're away from your home office and realize that you need your important files from your computer? With Box.net, you will always have access to your files from anywhere where you have internet connection. Once you've uploaded your files to the box, you can safely store them online, or even share it with others.

IE Tip 23:Ideawicket.com

2007-06-19T08:24:00.001-07:00

Here is an interesting way to connect innovators/inventors and possible investors together. Ideawicket is a platform that allows people to showcase novel ideas and creations and pitch to potential investors or corporations. Aside from posting their ideas, users can comment on other users' inventions, network with other users, and share ideas and innovations with friends. In turn, corporations and investors can contact inventors and run "innovation" contests.

Learn to Pitch, Get Published, and Scrapbooking

2007-06-18T08:28:00.000-07:00

An Evening with Norm Brodsky: An Entrepreneur's Success Story: Share the evening with Norm Brodsky, a serial entrepreneur whose six businesses have been included in Inc 100 and Inc 500. Listen to him share his experiences with taking his company public, going bankrupt, and building his most successful business to date. Located in New York, NY. June 19, 2007.

Learn How to Pitch Yourself to Potential ClientsThe evening will include brief pitches (about 30 minutes total) from two business coaches to teach people how to impress on interviews and presentations and make a better first impression. Located in New York, NY. June 19, 2007.

How to Get Published : Author and professor Stacey Cochran will be at Borders Books to lead a seminar or how to get published. He will hand out copies of sample query letters for literary agents and will answer any question you have regarding the publishing business and getting your book in print. Located in Cary, NC. June 21, 2007.

Great American Scrapbook Convention: A two-day getaway for scrapbookers. Includes shopping for new products, workshops, networking, and learning new skills. Located in Chantilly, VA. June 22-23, 2007

Claudine Hellmuth

2007-06-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

Claudine Hellmuth is a mixed media collage artist who has her artistic hands on a variety of projects-from custom artwork, scrapbooking products, to instructional dvds. In addition, she’s an author of the best-selling book Collage Discovery Workshop! and the newly-released second book Collage Discovery Workshop: Beyond the Unexpected! She is indeed one busy indie entrepreneur!

Background
“ I went to the Corcoran College of Art + Design and graduated with my BFA in 1997. After college I worked as a web site designer until 2001, [after which] I went into business full time for myself. Yay! I wear many hats in my business: I am an artist, author, workshop instructor, illustrator.”

Signature Product
“ A big part of my business is creating custom artwork for people using their photos and incorporating them into my work to create something special for them.”

Typical Customer
“My typical customer is female between 30-50, usually hip, arty and fashionable and likes to have unusual things in their home.”

Minimal Start Up Costs
“I didn’t really have any start up costs. I started working on my business while I was still at my full time job so when I got laid off, it was a fairly easy transition because I had managed to build up my business enough where it was a full time job all by itself.”

Selling Products
"[I sell] on the internet and in a couple of galleries. I sell through my own web site, but I want to build a better store to sell more products there. I am thinking about getting an Etsy store and debating whether it would be better to do that or just have my own store on my own web site. I did sell through Ebay for a little bit too.”

The Delicate Art of Pricing
“That’s the million dollar question! I price [my products] at what I think I would pay for something like that. People tell me my prices are way too low, but then the artwork is selling well right now, so I feel like it’s at a good price. I play with the pricing every once in awhile to see if I can raise prices and keep the interest there.”

Effective Marketing Techniques
“I market through the internet and blogs (My blog brings me a lot of business and it’s free!) I also send out press releases to magazines [and other publications] to try to get print press coverage. I just started a really big press release campaign and am hoping it will turn up some results for me.”

Emotional Challenges
“I think the most challenging part is being scared if people will still want what I have to offer and what happens if one day they don’t …Worrying is the most challenging part of being self employed for me.”

Recommended Business Sources
“Creatively Self Employed is a great book to read. It has interviews with tons of other creatives who are all in the same boat, so it makes you feel better about the challenges of having your own business. You are not alone.”

“I also hired Dawn of Annabellastationery.com to help with my press release, She has a press release writing service with very reasonable prices, she wrote an incredible release for me.”

Inspired by…

“Materials and playing with art supplies. If I am uninspired, if I start playing with paint and paper, the inspiration usually follows.”

Words of Advice-Baby Steps
“[Do] not feel that you have to do it all at once, just take baby steps toward your goal, stay in your full time job and build your business on the side. You don’t have to do one or the other, you can build your business and then when the time is right you can go for it!”

---------------------------

Contact:

Claudine Hellmuth

http://www.collageartist.com/

http://claudinehellmuth.blogspot.com/

2457-A. South Hiawassee Rd PMB #106

Orlando, FL 32835

chellmuth@aol.com

IE Tip 22: Crafters For Critters-Combines Shopping and Helping

2007-06-14T13:49:00.000-07:00

Crafters for Critters supports handmade, independent businesses/crafters/designers/artists and rounds money for animal rescue organizations. Not only do craft entrepreneurs get to donate to a great cause, they also get *free* advertising by being included in the website's link pages, plus free exposure to potential customers. A win-win situation for all!

IE Tip 22:StumbleUpon.com

2007-06-13T08:24:00.000-07:00

Want to discover new websites, photos, videos? Go to stumbleupon.com and stumble on a boatload of information on varied topics such as art, shopping, technology, and politics. Stumbleupon learns your interests and gives you recommendations based on your interests.

IE Tip 21: FirstGiving.com-Making Helping Easier

2007-06-12T08:23:00.000-07:00

You want to donate part of your sales to your favorite charity? Firstgiving.com is an online donation tool that allows fundraisers to select their fundraising cause or charity, personalize an online page with a description of their cause, and a tell their family and friends about the fundraiser through emails or blogs. Donors can make donations online and funds are automatically transferred to the charity.

Workshops, Creativity Classes, Fairs

2007-06-11T02:48:00.000-07:00

Women Power Selling Workshop: Seminar designed to enhance the selling strategies to include womens’ hidden powers in elevating sales and building a business. Located in New York, NY. June 13, 2007.

Creative Problem Solving For Entrepreneurs: Creativity workshop run by Gregg Fraley, creativity and innovation consultant and author of Jack's Notebook. Sponsored by the Capitol Creativity Network. Located in Washington, DC. June 13, 2007.

Renegade Craft Fair: Vendors feature a variety of handmade goods, including handbags and jewelry, baby gifts and paper products, clothing and and housewares. Located in Brooklyn, NY. June 16-17, 2007.

2007-06-08T08:23:00.000-07:00

In Japanese, Kimonomomo literally means “something to wear” and “peach.” What a fitting name for Carol Ziogas’ company, which creates beautiful and luscious accessories made from gorgeous kimono silk fabric as soft and sweet as a ripe summer peach.

A Piece of Kimono
“I recycle vintage Japanese kimono and obi into new accessories any woman can wear and enjoy. Putting on a kimono is very complex. With Kimono Momo accessories, you don’t have to go through all that to look gorgeous.”

Balancing Work and Parenthood
“ I have two kids. The balance is really awkward sometimes, but other times the kids enjoy helping out. My daughter models kimono for me at shows and my son is actually interested in textiles.”

From Jeweler to Kimono Artist
“I spent nearly a decade as a jeweler doing art and craft shows on the west coast before my divorce. Sometime after that, someone stole all my tools and stock out of my car and I gave up on jewelry with no regrets. I went back to college, worked on a degree in Anthropology then dropped out to go back into business. I love working for myself. I’m a terrible employee, apparently.”

Meeting Challenges
“There’s always someone who says “When are you going to get a REAL job?,” but I don’t hear that much anymore. It took a while to convince my boyfriend that I could support myself with this business. He’s become one of my best cheerleaders over the past year or so.”

“[Another challenge is] keeping my kids from stopping me! They want to go shopping, have me cook dinner, take them to a friend’s house.... I tell them “These are mommy’s office hours. Bug off.”

Landing A First Wholesale Account
“It was a local store where the owner made things herself as well as carrying a selection of designer clothes. She was very supportive and friendly. I was fortunate to find her.”

On Finding Accounts
“I ask around, drive around, walk around, read blogs about cities I’m interested in, that sort of thing. Sometimes we find each other by accident. My last account and I found each other when I came into his shop looking for directions. I had not thought of selling to him, but he liked my work and bought quite a nice selection from me the next day.”

Recommended Business Resources
“The Switchboards has been a great resource. I [also] go to the library at least once a week and look around the business section. There’s a wealth of information there and it’s all free.”

Inspired by…
“The infinite variety of my medium. You would be surprised how many different types of silk there are, not to mention the dyes, etc.”

Personal and Professional Mentors

“A few professional textile business women I know and my mother. The pros taught me I could do this as a business, and my mother taught me to love the fabric for what it is.”

Word of Advice
“Take yourself seriously or else no one will.”
---------------------------------------
Contact:

Carol Ziogas
Kimono Momo
(541) 815-1589
info@kimonomomo.com

IE Tip 20: BusinessPundit.com

2007-06-06T08:45:00.001-07:00

BusinessPundit.com brings your daily dose of entrepreneurship and competitive advantage news and articles, and contains topics on finance, leadership, and decision making as it applies to business.

IE Tip 19: BusinessReviewOnline.com

2007-06-05T08:30:00.000-07:00

Research, research, research. That is one of the pinnacle advices to someone starting their own business. Now you can make researching a little less tedious by going to BusinessReviewOnline.com, which compiles industry news and market research on industries such as technology, food, drink, and energy. Even though these are not the industries your business is in, many industries are inter-related, and trends can carry over and affect your own industry.

Markets, Seminars

2007-06-04T08:58:00.001-07:00

The Needle Art's Market: Market attracts upscale, independent needleart buyers from all over the United States and abroad. Features 900+ booths and more than 430 needleart suppliers. Highlights include over 300 hours of business and technique classes, Retailers' Luncheon, Fashion Show, Sample It!, Silent Auction and the Galleria Reception. Located in Columbus, OH. June 2-4, 2007.

Map Your Business Plan: Learn how to focus and write a one-page implementation plan for your business in one night! Located in New York, NY. June 6, 2007.

Social Networking Extravaganza: Networking event for creative professionals. Located in New York, NY. June 7, 2007.

Sellout Buyout: Monthly craft fair featuring more than 22 local artists and designers. Located in Sacramento, CA. June 9, 2007.

Etsy Art and Craft Summer Sale: Craft show sponsored by PSU Women's Studies Department and the "Walk of Heroines". Located in Portland, OR. June 9, 2007.

Rotem Gear

2007-06-01T08:34:00.000-07:00

Jean Roth is an entrepreneur extraordinaire. Her businesses include Rotem Design Studio, a graphic design business for print, identity, and web design, and Rotem Gear, an apparel line of t-shirts and tops inspired by pop culture, ethnic, and urban designs. Other businesses include Unearthed Tees, a shop of geology-themed shirts, and Insinceri Tees, a fun tee shop full of glib lines, half-truths, excuses and empty promises ! (“We’ll Do Lunch”, “Loved your Script”, “The Dog Ate It”). She also runs LickiTees, a cuisine and wine-focused t-shirt shop, Pettiles.com, a ceramic pet memory tile shop, and BadCatTagger.com, which features youth-targeted urban t-shirts. One thing I can tell you-Jean is one busy woman!

Background
“My work experiences include a wide range of types of businesses (academic, diplomatic, hi-tech, architecture, corporate and non-profit), which really helps me with the needs of different types of design clients. I’ve worked at UCLA, the Japanese Consulate General, the number one high-end Japanese audio-electronics company, a software company and the diamond exchange in Tel-Aviv, a non-profit educational organization that helps Jewish and Arab children in an under-served section of Israel, and two award-winning architectural firms.”

Influences
“I am very much influenced by my personal, educational and professional background, which has also taken me from East Asia to the Middle East… Visiting other places like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Hong-Kong, Turkey and Egypt, I am fascinated by the textures, typographies, rhythms and architecture of traditional, modern and colonial influences on urban life. The mix of culture, language, food and history is very much in my mind when I design, as well as American pop culture and humor.”

Typical Customer
“[O]ff-line sales are a mix, from teens and young adults to other adults, depending on the venue. Of course, what I offer will vary according to the market I expect as well.”

On Outsourcing
“My t-shirts are all printed by other vendors. At the moment most of my online shirts are printed and shipped by the print-on-demand company CafePress.”

“For direct sales I use a local printer who is lovely to work with. I support local business this way, and more importantly, I get to check everything first-hand.”

Challenge-Believing in Yourself
“Seriously, the hardest part is believing in yourself. Everything else – funding, marketing, selling – flows from that. If you don’t believe in what you do you will not be able to take care of those important parts of your business.”

“Women in particular tend to trivialize their own businesses with words like "my little website," and practically apologize for their products on their sites with copy that sounds like "pleeeease buy my little doodads." Can you imagine a man saying this?”

“Our businesses are creations that we put time and thought and talent and effort into. We must have pride in what we do and believe in ourselves. We do not have to be egotistical or obnoxious about it. As we see ourselves as serious business people, so will others, and that includes everyone from investors to customers to colleagues to potential advertisers and marketers.”

“That’s the most challenging part.”

Marketing and Advertising Products
“[I market through] SEO, targeted directories, targeted ads (blogs, Google, etc.), blog, e-zine and magazine mentions, and other businesses that affiliate my products or otherwise link to me, Web 2.0 –type “social networking” sites.”

“I have done blogads, with middling-to-negligible success, and Google adwords., as well as some link directories, blog directories, etc.”

Motivation
”I love having the challenge of a of carte-blanche in design. I do my best work that way, just going by my gut, and so far I have been lucky enough to have clients who loved what I produced, whether it was web design, t-shirt design, animated ads, or printed materials.”

“Because of my oddly cross-cultural view of the world, I am also motivated by what the textures and typographies of the places I’ve lived and studied.”

Recommended Business Resources
“Soooo many … but anyone getting into their own small business should first check the resources at the United States Small Business Administration. You should also check your own state’s requirements for registering your business name. Also important is United States Patent and Trademark Office."

“Those in creative indie businesses will find a supportive and knowledgeable community at The Switchboards. I am also getting inspired by Ladies Who Launch these days.”

Words of Advice- Knowledge is Power
“[K]now what drives you. Closely related to believing in yourself is knowing what it is you do, or want to do, or are compelled beyond reason to do. I once saw someone ask in a forum “how did you decide what to design and sell?” That shocked me, sort of, because the way I see it, you know what it is you want to do – it is the thing you do well and what you will enjoy and believe in, and thus make work. How can you be successful in something you don’t love? An indie entrepreneur’s work isn’t a job, it’s a calling, and whatever it is that you do, it calls you, not the other way around.”

“[K]now your assets. What can you offer the world that few others can? It is often something you take for granted. Is it a skill set, a language, an access to materials or places or experiences? A point of view? A way of life? An inspiration? Silliness? A dedication to healthful living? A love of … what? Bring these elements into what you do. Maybe you love to make jewelry with silver flowers. But lets say you grew up speaking French … think about levering that into a product set that sets it apart from all the other silver flowers.”

“For me, it was combining my love of design and typography with my love and knowledge of languages and cultures. I also learned that where my t-shirts are concerned, rather than squelch my own quirky sense of humor I need to embrace it. This combination may be lost on some as it’s not middle-of-the-road, but it is what I do best, and it is unique, I believe.”
“That thing you take for granted may be what sets you apart. Nothing is silly or trivial. It’s a big world out there. Yes, there is a lot of competition, but there is even more opportunity.”

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Contact:

Jean Roth

gear@rotemdesignstudio.com

IE Tip 18: Trendhunter.com: Be in the Know

2007-05-31T08:28:00.000-07:00

Stay ahead of the curve by knowing the trends before they become mainstream. Trendhunter.com is fueled by 11,000+ trendhunters all over the world who are in search of the next cool thing. Start with the two-minute guide to trend spotting and innovation and be inspired.

IE Tip 17: Small Business Administration

2007-05-30T10:27:00.001-07:00

The Small Business Administration is an invaluable resource for those wanting to learn the ins and outs of starting and running a small business. Take their boundless free online classes in topics like finance and accounting, business management, or e-commerce.

IE Tip 16: Find Your Voice: GotVoice.com

2007-05-29T09:01:00.000-07:00

Tired of listening to long-winded voicemails? Register at GotVoice.com and opt to receive your voicemails as emails for FREE! No more wasting your time retrieving voicemails and make more time for things that really matter.

Workshops and More

2007-05-28T11:09:00.001-07:00

How to Track and Get Results: How to Make Your Website Work for You: Free presentation that will help you identify web design issues, monitor your site, and write for your web. Located in Lakewood, CO.May 29, 2007, 6:30-8 pm.

Getting Unstuck Workshop: Interactive workshop that will get into the core of what's keeping you from moving forward with your business. Located in New York, NY. May 29, 2007, 6-8 pm.

Marketing Thought-Ideas that Drive Results: Workshop that focuses on marketing ideas and strategies that bring results. Located in Santa Clara, CA. May 31, 2007.

Crafterbation: Social networking event for crafters. Located in Pittsburgh, PA. May 31, 2007.

Blogging as a Business Tool: Speaker series with Marc Orchant, Chief Evangelist at Foldera and ZDNet blogger on using blogging as an effective business tool. Located in Albuquerque, NM. May 31,2007, 11:30-1:00.

Art Star Craft Bazaar: Features work by over 100 artists and crafters, including interactive craft demonstrations. Located in Philadelphia, PA. June 2, 2007.

The Needle Art's Market: Market attracts upscale, independent needleart buyers from all over the United States and abroad. Features 900+ booths and more than 430 needleart suppliers. Highlights include over 300 hours of business and technique classes, Retailers' Luncheon, Fashion Show, Sample It!, Silent Auction and the Galleria Reception. Located in Columbus, OH. June 2-4, 2007.

IE Tip 15: Women In Technology International: Build, Empower, Inspire

2007-05-24T11:54:00.000-07:00

WITI is a global organization of women who use the power of technology in their profession, whether it be marketing, sales, or management. Explore the WITI community, or browse network events, teleseminars, and conferences in its many regional networks.

IE Tip 14: FTC Consumer Complaint Form: Fight Back Fraud

2007-05-23T16:32:00.000-07:00

Do you have any internet, telemarketing, identity theft, and other fraud-related complaints? Fill out and submit a complaint form with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and they will investigate your complaint.

Entrepreneur Events

2007-05-21T16:25:00.001-07:00

We're making money now -- help! How to go from one-woman band to managing a team: Panel of experts talk about how to grow your business and deal with payroll, employment law, discrimination, and other administrative issues. Located in Sherman Oaks, CA. May 22, 2007, 8-10 am.

Special Talk about Entrepreneurship by Magic Johnson COO Kawanna Brown: FREE talk about entrepreneurship and business given by Kawanna Brown, managing partner and COO for Magic Johnson Enterprises. Located in Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA. May 22, 2007, 5:30 pm.

2 Hounds Design

2007-05-18T08:22:00.000-07:00

Meet Alisha Navarro, the owner of 2 Hounds Design, a company which makes designer dog collars and leashes using silk fabric, batik prints, handloomed silk, and jacquard ribbon from all over the world. She specializes in Martingale Collars for larger breeds, but offer collars for all breeds and sizes. Here Alisha shares her company history, business challenges, and helpful tips.

Typical Customers
“Most of my customers have sighthounds (ie, Greyhounds, Whippets, Italian Greyhounds, etc) but I am finding a growing market of martingale collar customers because trainers so often recommend them. My customers usually work with adoption groups or breed rescue organizations, but do not fit easily into age or gender categories.”

From Engineer to Business Owner
“ I quit my “real” job as an Engineer just over 3 years ago and I work more hours and I work harder than I EVER worked at my “real” job, but I love what I do and never regret my decision [to make 2 Hounds Design my full-time job.]”

How Her Education Helped in Her Business
“Oddly enough, I have a Master’s Degree in Applied Physics. ..I have a very analytical brain. I still use these skills even though I no longer work in any of these fields. My research background combined with my insane need to know everything (HA!) is what helps me find new sources for fabric, ribbons, etc. I have also used my programming background to help me design and update my own website, which helped tremendously in the beginning because I didn’t have to pay anyone to do these things for me.”

Hiring Her Employees

“I [currently] have 4 employees. I hired my first employee to help me build inventory for shows, she sewed at home and worked just a few hours/week. I got a huge wholesale order one week, asked if she could come in and work with me in my workroom and she started working more hours because business never slowed down after that. I have since added 3 other employees.”

Encountering Challenges

“The stress! I stress every day about whether my orders are shipping fast enough (custom work takes time) or whether my website is updated often enough. You name it, I stress about it. I find that I am one of those people that can’t get anything done unless there is a deadline. The more I have to do, the more I get done.”

Best and “Worst” of Show

“My best AND worst show experiences are actually the same place. There is a huge greyhound gathering in Dewey Beach, DE…The first year I went, my space in the tent was LITERALLY under 6 inches of water. My husband built a bridge for my customers because they couldn’t even get to my table." (See pix below)

“The event turned out great, we sold a lot of collars and people smiled and used our bridge and we all called it the “boardwalk” and had a great time.”

Unsolicited Press, Good Press
“So far, all of the press I have gotten was unsolicited. Country Living magazine contacted me last year and asked me to send collars, I did but honestly didn’t think anything would come of it, but I was in the October issue of the magazine. I have also been in Skirt! Magazine (with my hounds! ) and the Charlotte Observer. I am planning to start doing press releases this year and I am keeping my fingers crossed!”

Inspirations
“I am inspired by the things around me. Sometimes a costume in a movie will inspire me, sometimes a picture in a magazine will grab my attention.”

Mentors-Good People Who Do Good Things
“My mentors are people who do good things for other people. I love what Oprah has done for the country with her charities and starting the book club to get more people reading.”

Recommended Business Sources
“The E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber is an ABSOLUTE must for any business! I learned so much and it caused me to take a totally different approach to my business and my personal life has improved greatly.”

Words of Advice – Blood, Sweat and Tears
“Don’t give up! It takes patience, sweat, tears, and even blood to get a business of the ground but it is SO worth it!”

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Contact:

Alisha Navarro
2 Hounds Design
Phone Number: 704-283-1547

IE Tip 13: Better Business Bureau: For Better Business

2007-05-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

Not sure about dealing with a particular business or merchant? Go to Better Business Bureau, and find out about a company's history, contact info, and complaints that were filed. For example, I recently searched for Fire Mountain Gem Beads (a bead mail-order and catalog company) and found that it had a satisfactory record and had two resolved complaints within the last 36 months.

IE Tip 12: The Sampler: Sample and Contribute

2007-05-15T11:31:00.000-07:00

Discover The Sampler, a neat and fun promotional marketing tool that really aims to reach your target customers. Each month, indie crafters, artists, and stores send in samples of their products to a contribution pool of other indie businesses. The samples are photographed, posted to the site, and sent in as packages to Sampler contributors and subscribers. A great way to really send in a piece of your business to customers worldwide.

Shows, Networking, Workshops

2007-05-14T01:32:00.000-07:00

How to Conduct a Productive Meeting: Class that teaches techniques and dynamics of small group meetings. Located in Birmingham, MI. May 17, 2007, 7:30-9:30 AM.

Fine Art and Designer Crafts on Bleeker: Art and crafts design show. Located in New York, NY. May 20, 2007, 11 am to 6:30 pm.

Younger Women’s Task Force Networking Event: Networking event for women to build their leadership and professional skills. Sponsored by the Younger Women’s Task Force. Located in Boston, MA.

Business Etiquette Workshop: Provides essential etiquette skills, especially for businesses dealing with customer service and clients. Located in Santa Clara, CA. May 16, 2007, 9 am-4 pm.

Bazaar Bizarre: Meet your favorite crafters selling their amazing wares at this popular nationwide craft show. Located in San Francisco, CA. May 19-20, 2007.

Michigan Etsy Craft Extravaganza: Show of Etsy artist and crafters from all over Michigan get together for one day of sweet crafty goodness. Sponsored by Etsy. Located in Royal Oak, Michigan. May 20, 2007, 12 pm-6 pm.

IE Tip 11: Looking for indie craft shows and events?

2007-05-10T13:38:00.000-07:00

Visit Indie Craft Shows , a user-driven calendar of craft shows, festivals, and other events featuring indie, handmade items. List your event, or browse events from all over the country.

IE Tip 10: MemoToMe.com: Be Reminded

2007-05-08T08:56:00.000-07:00

Yes, you are one busy bee, juggling family, friends, work, a business. Register for a free service with Memo To Me, and you'll never have to miss important family occasions, work deadlines, and business meetings. Program events you need to be reminded of and when you need the reminder, and the service will sent reminders via your email. Upgrade to the platinum edition, and have reminders sent to your mobile phone or pager.

Craft Fairs, LawYours

2007-05-07T09:01:00.001-07:00

LawYours: Connecting Startups and Law Firms: FREE event that connects law firms and entrepreneurs who are creating a start up and seeking venture capital funding. Located in Palo Alto, CA. May 10, 2007.

Got Craft?: Fun and unique event featuring a modern twist to the traditional craft fair. Located in Vancouver, Canda. May 12-13, 2007.

Maven Craft Fair: Craft fair featuring works of emerging indie artists and designers. Located in San Francisco, CA. May 12, 2007.

Cioccolatina: Handmade Natural Skin Care

2007-05-04T11:22:00.000-07:00

Akua Wood founded Cioccolatina in November 2002 in response to her frustration in trying to find a natural range of toiletries to moisturize her skin, as well as to fulfill her need to work at home in order to look after her disabled daughter. Now, only 4 short years later, Cioccolatina has formed a cult following with her fine range of shea butter, olive oil, and other natural skin products. Akua shares her experiences in building Cioccolatina:

Typical Customer
“I have a diverse range of customers all over the world. The typical customer being 28 years of age and mainly female.”

Balancing Act
“Although I am self-employed, I work part-time. I do not have any full time job and have to balance my time as a “mother/wife/business woman”. As a parent, I work hard and long hours and have very little time for myself.”

Typical Akua Day
“Most of my working days start at 07:30 and finish at 22:00. This is mainly made up of responding to customers’ emails, packing/dispatching orders and answering telephone calls.”

Where to find Her Products
“Cioccolatina products are sold mainly via my website. Our retail shop in Sonning (Berkshire- UK) will soon be open to the buying public.”

Keeping in Touch with Customers
“As a business woman, I tend to follow the trend by generally reading specific magazines.”

Challenges in Building a Business
“The most challenging part was providing customers the right products which I have been able to achieve.”

“[Other challenges include changes in] market trends, problems to overcome with suppliers being late with deliveries or packages getting lost in the post. You need determination and pre-planning.”

Inspiration in the Mix
"Mixing up a cream with natural ingredients that my customers love to purchase and use."

Her Father, the Mentor
"My father who introduced me to the use of herbs at a very early age."

Words of Advice: Research and Spend Wisely
" Starting a business seem to be easy. The difficult bit is sustaining it. My advice for any one starting out will be to research on your target market and spend wisely by printing your own labels."
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Contact:
Akua Wood
Cioccolatina