How to Take Control of Your Finances and Cultivate Confidence Around Money
Your budgeting game is about to change.
Welcome to this special episode of WorkParty titled Money Talks, a Budget Broadcast Series in partnership with You Need a Budget (YNAB), designed to educate everyone on the power of building a budget.
Whether your financial goals are aimed at booking the vacation in Europe you’ve been dreaming about pre-lockdown, paying off your high interest credit card debt, or simply starting to save for the future—a budget (of all sizes) can help you accomplish those dreams.
To kick off our first of three Money Talks episodes, Jaclyn is joined by Jesse Mecham, the founder of YNAB, the app designed to be your best money-saving friend.
Get your notepad ready and press play on episode one! Your budgeting game is about to change.
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Mom Point: Perfect Presents For Mother's Day
Shop Mother’s Day gifts from Hallmark.
“Motherhood” can be described in as many ways as there are many kinds of moms. Moms are tough and tender, fancy and fierce, warm and wise. They’re nurturing, compassionate, resilient and bold. And sometimes, they’re not actually your mom, but rather a mother figure – someone whose advice you can always trust, who has stood by you through thick and thin and who you love like family.
Moms also make mistakes. They teach us it’s okay not to be perfect. How to say, “I’m sorry.” How to forgive others. And how to forgive ourselves.
And after so many years of love and laughter and tears, they know when it’s time to let go … just enough, but not quite all the way.
So this year, let’s show all the moms in our lives how grateful we are for their giving, loving, perfectly imperfect selves. Let’s tell them how lucky we feel. And let’s thank them for all that they are.
We asked three stylish women to reveal the perfect presents from Hallmark for every kind of mom. Keep scrolling to see what gifts they’re giving to the leading women in their lives this year.
“I love that Hallmark has a wide variety of products. No matter who you’re shopping for, you can always find a card and gift that fits their personality perfectly!”
–Maddie Obray
To whom did you send a Mother’s Day card/gift to and why? Which card and gift did you choose?
My mom loves flowers so I picked out the Loved Mother’s Day Card With Floral Heart Wreath in Gift Box and the Bright and Happy Day Vase of Flowers 3D Pop-Up Card. My mother-in-law loves the spa so I got her the Spa Day Self-Care Kit.
What makes it a great gift?
These are great gifts because the products I picked have specific meaning for my mom and mother-in-law–they will know I was thinking about them when I picked out the gifts.
What message did you want to get across to them? How did sending a card and gift help convey your message and emotions in a more meaningful way?
I just wanted them to know I love them and care about them. I know when they get these gifts they will feel loved and appreciated!
Why is Hallmark your go-to shop for Mother’s Day gifts?
I love that Hallmark has a wide variety of products. No matter who you’re shopping for, you can always find a card and gift that fits their personality perfectly!
Best advice you learned from your mom?
My mom leads by example and I’m always trying to be more like her. She is kind, compassionate, strong, caring, loving, genuine, and always puts God and family first. She is also the best grandma to my daughter! I don’t know what we’d do without her.
How did sending a card make you feel?
I always love sending cards because it’s such an easy gesture to let people know how much they mean to you. I love knowing it will brighten their day when they see it and read the message inside.
Maddie’s Mother’s Day Gift Picks
HALLMARK
Loved Mother's Day Card With Floral Heart Wreath in Gift Box
HALLMARK
Spa Day Self-Care Kit, 6 Pieces
HALLMARK
Bright and Happy Day Vase of Flowers 3D Pop-Up Mother's Day Card
“Gift giving is one of my love languages and a way I love to express my love to others. I love being able to shower my mom with gifts on her special day to remind her just how special she is.”
– Jalisa Vaughn
To whom did you send a Mother’s Day card and gift to and why? What card and gift did you choose?
My mom to make her feel special this Mother’s Day. I got her a Hallmark Paper Wonder pop up card as well as Lavender-Infused Crew Socks and a Spa Day Self-Care Kit so that I could express how much she means to me not just on this special day but every day
What makes it a great gift?
I love the variety of self-care gifts because she deserves to feel pampered, and the pop-up card really makes a statement! I know she’ll be wowed when she opens this gift.
What message did you want to get across to them? How did sending a card and gift help convey your message and emotions in a more meaningful way?
The importance of self-care and self-love. It was a tangible expression of my feelings for my mother.
Why is Hallmark your go-to shop for Mother’s Day gifts?
Hallmark is always my go to for Mother’s Day gifts because they always help me tangibly express my emotions and their gifts allow my mom to have keepsakes that she can reflect on for years to come.
Best advice you learned from your mom?
One piece of advice that I hold tightly to is, “when you keep God first, He will take care of His.”
How did sending a card make you feel?
Gift giving is one of my love languages and a way I love to express my love to others. I love being able to shower my mom with gifts on her special day to remind her just how special she is.
Jalisa’s Mother’s Day Gift Picks
HALLMARK
If You Can Read This Lavender-Infused Crew Socks
HALLMARK
You're a Blessing Hummingbird 3D Pop-Up Mother's Day Card
HALLMARK
Spa Day Self-Care Kit, 6 Pieces
“Hallmark always has the perfect cards to express exactly how I am feeling.”
– Dayna Bolden
To whom did you send a Mother’s Day card and gift to and why? What card and gift did you choose?
I decided to send a Mother’s Day card to my mother-in-law because she has been such a huge help to our family, from watching the kids, to keeping the house in tact while I am busy working. She has been a great help to me and has made my job easier.
I chose a Hallmark Mother’s Day Card and Hallmark’s Spa Day Self-Care Kit.
What makes it a great gift?
I love this gift for my mother in law because she works so hard she deserves a little me time at home. She also loves painting and doing my daughter’s nails, that is her favorite thing to do on the weekends, so this kit would make her so happy!
What message did you want to get across to them? How did sending a card and gift help convey your message and emotions in a more meaningful way?
The message I want her to know is that she is valued and appreciated. By giving a simple gift that I know she will love will show how much we love and value her presence in our life.
Why is Hallmark your go-to shop for Mother’s Day gifts?
Hallmark has always been my go-to destination–Hallmark always has the perfect cards to express exactly how I am feeling and the selection is great. I also love the selection of meaningful gifts that all moms will love and appreciate.
Best advice you learned from your mom?
My best advice from my mom is to work hard with everything that you do. She has instilled this in me by not just telling me, but showing me daily with how hard she works in her career and for her family. I knew I would always be successful solely on how she instilled work ethic in me.
How did sending a card make you feel?
Sending a card made me feel happy and blessed that I have mothers in my life that I am close to and value every day.
Dayna’s Mother’s Day Gift Picks
HALLMARK
Spa Day Self-Care Kit, 6 Pieces
HALLMARK
My Mom, My Friend Mother's Day Card
HALLMARK
Home Is Where Mom Is Quote Sign
MORE ON THE BLOG
The Power of You–How to Discover Your Purpose and Pursue Your Passion
You are worth every investment you make in yourself.
On Thursday, March 25, 2021, we heard from an incredible lineup of diverse panelists and speakers at The Power of You event presented by Rodan + Fields, in collaboration with Create & Cultivate, on how we can empower one another to be our very best, happiest and most confident selves.
It was an engaging day of empowering and inspiring conversations–moderated by actress, model, author and philanthropist, Molly Sims–and centered around YOU, delving deep into discussions about:
Purpose and what it looks like to be personally and professionally fulfilled
Self-care and how to prioritize a wellness routine that takes care of the WHOLE you: mind, body and spirit
And finally–it wouldn’t be a Rodan + Fields event if we didn’t talk SKINCARE–tips to create a healthy skin routine and most importantly, how to see confidence and beauty when you look in the mirror every single day, no matter what.
To everyone who came, thank you for joining us—and to those who couldn’t make it, keep reading to feel empowered, inspired and very much in touch with The Power of YOU. Below, we’ve compiled the highlights from the three panel conversations aimed at helping you pursue your purpose and passion, while reminding you of the importance of taking care of yourself and your skin. After all, you are worth every investment you make in yourself.
Panel #1: Creating Purpose Where You Are
On dharma…
“Your dharma is your soul’s purpose––it’s the reason why you are here. It’s so much more than what you do–-it’s why you do it and how you do it.” – Sahara Rose
“You already know your purpose. You were born with your purpose. It’s not so much about finding it as it is about remembering it.” – Sahara Rose
On being your authentic self…
“Success comes from being your authentic self.” – Stephanie Pullings Hart
On taking calculated risks...
“To really think bigger, and to think outside the traditional dreams is sometimes really scary for people, but if it’s hysterical, it’s historical–and probably worth doing.” – Julie Solomon
On finding purpose in different places..
“There is a difference between what you’re good at and what you’re passionate about. Experiment, be flexible, and be open to new experiences to find your passion-driven purpose.” – Sofia Montijo
On cultivating confidence to become an entrepreneur…
“Confidence can grow from complacency – you are in control of the change.” – Julie Solomon
“Sometimes those ‘ah ha’ moments are actually a process of long-term commitment. Meaningful change is not often an instant occurrence.” – Sofia Montijo
“Have the courage to try new things, even if you can’t control the outcome.”– Julie Solomon
The role of mindset when it comes to a thriving personal and professional life…
“I like to go beyond mindset to what I call ‘soulset’ because we can’t always listen to the mind when it’s clouded by our conditioning, limiting beliefs, etc. Tune into the voice of your intuition vs the voice of your fears––what feels right to you? What feels resonant? What feels expansive to you?”– Sahara Ray
On finding purpose and meaning when you’re feeling stuck...
“Sometimes you may not know your purpose but the way that you interact with or impact others really ends up being part of your purpose. Don’t be misguided on the potential impact you may have on someone else’s life.” – Stephanie Pullings Hart
"You have to get comfortable with hearing 'no.' As a matter of fact, the more 'no's' you get, the more that you’ll be able to pivot and redirect.“ – Julie Solomon
On the traits that make a successful leader...
“Authenticity is the most important trait of a successful leader – it’s about staying true to who you are, and about being YOU.” – Stephanie Pullings Hart
Tips on growth–within ourselves, within our business, within our purpose...
“We are always growing, but we get to choose the direction. Be the leader of your own life.” – Sahara Rose
Panel #2: Prioritizing Self-Care (and Your Sanity!)
On the importance of self-care…
As the World Health Organization states, ‘there is no physical health without mental health.’” – Dr. Janet Taylor
“Self care is about paying attention to what you need and putting yourself first.” – Dr. Janet Taylor
“Put yourself first–without guilt and without shame –but recognizing that when you can attend to your own needs in a way that is healthy and positive then you are raising the bar on not only for your physical health but your mental health.” – Dr. Janet Taylor
“The better you are to yourself, the better we are to each other.” – Candice Kumai
“If we can learn how to reset our minds, and shift the way we think about wellness as better self-care, we can make it a priority so we can ultimately grow.” – Candice Kumai
On the role of mindset and positive self-talk...
“Growing up, I never saw my body type reflected in the media. And when you don’t match up to society’s expectations, it really takes a toll on you. It’s about showing up everyday as authentic as possible, showing my insecurities, and choosing not only to accept my body but to respect my body.” – Kristina Zias
“It’s time to let go of negative self talk, self-doubt, guilt, shame, fear, or anything you’re holding onto. We all have those feelings and we all experience them, and that’s ok – but we also have to experience the joy, the love and the blessings around us in the present.” – Joey Tracy
“Positive self talk is so important–we all have that individual power to change the way that we feel, and we have to tap into that.” – Dr. Janet Taylor
“By repeating a mantra to ourselves, we are embracing ourselves with our flaws, embracing ourselves with our trauma, embracing ourselves with our suffering, in order to lift ourselves to where we need to be.” – Dr. Janet Taylor
“You have to be your biggest fan. Once you believe in yourself and you are radiating that confidence, everyone around you will see that too and you will begin to attract people to it like a magnet and it becomes very empowering.” – Kristina Zias
Addressing work-life balance, challenges, and pressure
“Comparison is absolutely the thief of joy.” – Kristina Zias
“Breathing is so important...when you’re feeling stressed or unbalanced, try to be present with your breath and let go of the tension and stress.” – Joey Tracy
“We don’t have to go to extremes to feel better. Sometimes it’s as simple as removing ourselves from a space and getting a change of scenery.” – Joey Tracy
On the role of community...
“We are social beings and we have an innate need for community and connection. When you are taking care of yourself, it makes it more likely that you can notice other people. We need a community of compassion.” – Dr. Janet Taylor
“Empowering other women is so important, and my R+F community is my hype squad–when one of us succeeds, we all do.” – Joey Tracy
On knowing your worth…
“Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s compassionate. We all have the choice, and the need and have earned the right to put ourselves first.” – Dr. Janet Taylor
“Self care is absolutely necessary–every single day.” – Joey Tracy
Panel #3: Skin Deep: Reflecting Confidence in the Mirror
On what’s trending…
“2020 enabled a lot of women to take skincare into their own hands. We had to learn how to get a glow at home. One of the ingredients with staying power is hyaluronic acid.” – Courtney Kerr
“A lot of people are coming to me for the ‘no-make-up, make-up-look’, which is about bringing out your very best self – hydrated skin and a natural glow that stems from a less is more approach, and more of an emphasis on skincare rather than make-up.” – Vincent Bracamonte
“With everyone working from home and staring at themselves on screens all day, and now they are noticing things that maybe never bothered them before. I like to prescribe a combination approach of injectable procedures, laser treatments and of course skincare to tie it all together.” – Dr. Arisa Ortiz
“People are taking more time on their skincare routine to distance themselves from the stress and uncertainty of life itself right now. A lot of women are less focused on colored cosmetics and more focused on products that help them feel clear, bright and confident.” – Janine Weber
“It’s not about vanity––it’s about confidence that comes from a confident, glowing complexion. Less filters and more reality, please.” – Janine Weber
On the importance of routine skincare routines…
“Nothing replaces quality skincare. We believe that how you take care of your skin daily, has a greater difference on your appearance–and your future appearance–than any procedure you could get done.” – Janine Weber
“The regime approach is so important. There’s no way to know if mixing products from different brands will be synergistic. The Multi-Med regime has been tested and is proven to drive results.” – Dr. Arisa Ortiz
On confidence...
“Your confidence increases when you really take time to take care of yourself–people can tell when you feel good in your own skin.” – Vincent Bracamonte
“Everyone sees beauty through a different lens.” – Vincent Bracamonte
“Beauty is not about matching someone else’s standards, looking like a celebrity or following to social media trends–it’s about authenticity and your character and your values and how you treat people and how you show up everyday.” – Janine Weber
On beauty…
“Beauty is being confident in your own skin. Confident shines from the inside out.” – Janine Weber
“Beauty is your true authentic self.” – Vincent Bracamonte
“Beauty is loving yourself as you are right now.” – Dr. Arisa Ortiz
“Beauty is fun–confidence is fun.” – Courtney Kerr
This Entrepreneur is Leading a Revolution to End to Period Stigma and Taboo
Breaking the taboo–period.
The topic of menstruation and period care products has long been stigmatized. Within the femcare industry, breaking down the barriers to innovation first requires breaking longstanding taboos – and that's exactly what Carinne Chambers-Saini intends to do.
As the CEO and Co-Founder of DivaCup and a champion for menstrual equity, Carinne is revolutionizing the period experience by taking the concept of menstrual cups from niche to mainstream,
In this episode of WorkParty, I’m sitting down with Carinne to chat about overcoming adversity, balancing purpose and profit, and finally breaking taboos––Period.
Join the party on social @workparty and stay in-the-know at workparty.com.
“Using our business as a force for good and as a vehicle to create meaningful change in the world is what drives our success–that is really what I’m most proud of.” –Carinne Chambers-Saini
“That’s entrepreneurship–you’re always going to be faced with new challenges and things are always changing–you can never get too comfortable.” –Carinne Chambers-Saini
“Anytime an opportunity I was excited about fell through, there was almost always something better that came behind it.”–Carinne Chambers-Saini
Made by Women–Discover, Shop and Support Women-Owned Restaurants in Los Angeles
We saved you a seat at the (virtual) table.
On March 25, 2021, Create & Cultivate joined forces with DoorDash for an entirely *virtual* dinner event to champion women-owned businesses and experience Made by Women, DoorDash’s new in-app features that make it easier to discover and support local independent women-owned businesses and entrepreneurs.
The intimate digital event was an evening filled with inspiring stories, great food, and important conversations on resiliency, vulnerability, community, and the state of the future, led by influential hosts including Rebecca Minkoff, Shiza Shahid, Ally Maki, and Good Clean Wine co-founders Michelle Feldman and Courtney Dunlop.
Women-owned businesses disproportionately feel the impacts of COVID-19. The road to recovery for small businesses post-COVID is long, and data from The U.S. Chamber of Commerce shows that women-owned small businesses have an even longer road ahead of them. DoorDash considers this commitment to supporting Women-owned businesses an ongoing effort that demands action through its product, voice, and resources, such as Made by Women.
Hundreds of Women-owned, independent restaurants across more than 40 US states have opted into Made by Women and are now searchable on DoorDash by keyword “Women owned”, including local Los Angeles favorites such as Kismet, Guelaguetza, Interstellar, Botanica and Lady & Larder, with more to come in the coming months.
Discover, shop and support more women-owned restaurants in Los Angeles, then join us at the table to tune into the conversations below–we saved you a seat.
WELCOME DRINKS: NEW RITUALS
Event Host / MC
Maxie McCoy, Host & Executive Producer of WOMAN ON
Guests
Michelle Feldman and Courtney Dunlop, Co-Founders of Good Clean Wine
“We never take our wine for granted and we love the ritual of getting together to experience a wine for the first time.” – Courtney Dunlop
“Our wine is wine that you can afford to share or enjoy on a Tuesday night. Especially given what we've all gone through in the past year, wine can be a ritual to celebrate everyday moments.” – Michelle Feldman
FIRST COURSE: RESILIENCY
Host / MC
Maxie McCoy, Host & Executive Producer of WOMAN ON
Guest
Rebecca Minkoff, Co-Founder, Creative Director of Rebecca Minkoff | Co-Founder Female Founder Collective
“When faced with a challenge, try to look back and remember every time you have found success and remember the feeling. The happiness you felt was because you overcame a barrier that was not insurmountable.” – Rebecca Minkoff
“Vulnerability is important–– it doesn't mean we are weak, it means we are honest.” – Rebecca Minkoff
If you were standing in the shoes of your future self, would you be okay looking back and knowing that you gave up, or would you rather know that you did everything possible to endure, regardless of the outcome.” – Maxie McCoy
“We have to get over the idea that being an entrepreneur or a founder should be easy – it’s never been that way.” – Rebecca Minkoff
SECOND COURSE: COMMUNITY
Host
Sonja Rasula, Founder, Unique Markets
Guest:
Ally Maki, Actor & Founder of Asian American Girl Club
“There were few, if any, shows featuring Asian American women as the lead, so we decided to create our own-–together. They will be so much more powerful, united, strong and authentic because the stories are coming directly from us.” – Ally Maki
“In this day and age of social media, we're able to use our voices like never before and with that comes an opportunity to find our tribe, wherever they may be in the world.” – Ally Maki
“Create content with authenticity and the community will grow organically.” – Ally Maki
“Community, female friendship and collaboration are absolutely essential––I would not be where I am today; I would not be as full and as happy.” – Ally Maki
THIRD COURSE: THE FUTURE
Host
Katie Daire, Senior Director, B2B Marketing at DoorDash
Guest
Shiza Shahid - Cofounder, Our Place and Malala Fund
“Food media for a long time had sort of ignored a lot of the cuisines, cultures and traditions that so many of us celebrate.” – Shiza Shahid
“Home cooking is about so much more than food––it's about connection to your culture, your identity, your traditions––and each other.” – Shiza Shahid
“As we re-acclimate to public spaces and gatherings, there is a noticeable hunger for connection, along with an intentional desire to not take these moments for granted anymore.” – Shiza Shahid
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff, in Business or in Love–This Founder’s Story is Proof that What’s Meant to be Will Always Find a Way
Because business is personal.
Donda Mullis knows a thing or two about putting your heart into your business. People say business isn’t personal, but she believes it absolutely is, as it is the connections and relationships that we have that makes it all happen. Love is not only the foundation of her company, but an agent for meaningful change, and an ongoing narrative of a shared passion with her partner in both business and life, Ronnie Shugar.
“We wanted to create an aspirational brand that made people feel better inside and out. And a brand with a heart that connected us with a cause which became the catalyst for our give back mission,” Mullis tells Create & Cultivate.
The result is one of today's fastest-growing natural lifestyle brands, Raw Sugar Living. Based in Florida , Raw Sugar Living is a brand on a mission to promote clean and healthy living through products that are good for the body and nourish the soul, while being accessible for all.
An early disruptor within the clean beauty and personal care category, Raw Sugar Living has been driving much-needed innovation in a new era of sustainability supported by a growing consumer awareness around buying choices and their impact on the environment. In fact, clean beauty is one of the fastest-growing areas of personal care and Raw Sugar Living remains at the forefront of the $22 billion industry. For more than seven years, the company mainstreams the highest-quality, hand-crafted soaps and personal care products that are made with plant-derived ingredients and cold pressed extracts (recognized by their signature 'Bamboo Tops & White Bottles' and 'Living Purely Unfiltered' tagline).
Mullis and Shugar first met many years back while working in the same retail field. While they had different focuses at the time, their diverse backgrounds––Shugar’s in manufacturing and logistics and Mullis’s in marketing, strategic partnerships and retail distribution––were a powerful synergy in the making. Their plan was always to do something bigger — together — that would inspire and connect their backgrounds with a meaningful cause. The two fell crazy in love, but eventually parted ways as young love often does.
Fast forward 20 years — the two reconnected by an act of destiny’s intervention. They renewed their love and their shared belief of wanting to inspire others to live from a place of self-love and wellness. For both of them, it was about sharing their passion for clean and healthy living while preserving a 60-year family history of making natural hand crafted natural soap and personal care products that are good for the body and that nourish the soul- and that people can feel good about using.
The latest addition to the Raw Sugar Living family meets the growing demand for planet-friendly, sustainable, and aluminum-free deodorant–one that ACTUALLY works. After all, one of the many lessons to take away from these founders’ story, is not to sweat the small stuff–in business or in love–because what is meant to be will always find its way.
Ahead, Mullis tells us more about the latest launch, and shares her advice for building a brand that is for the people, adopting a clean lifestyle and beauty regime, and utilizing entrepreneurship as an agent of change.
Our mission is to love from the inside out. We embrace individuality and create with authenticity.
– Donda Mullis, Co-Founder and CMO, Raw Sugar Living
What inspired you to start Raw Sugar Living?
What inspired us was the white space in the marketplace for natural/clean products that were simply affordable, thereby making clean healthy products more accessible to all. Because, as I always say, we all deserve to feel beautiful and love the skin we’re in. For me, it was to create a brand that was much more than products sitting on a retail shelf, but rather an aspirational brand that inspires people to live from a powerful place of self love, wellness, empowering others, and loving ourselves, flaws and all. And very importantly, creating real change in our community. In fact, every product is tagged with a ‘sugar note’, kind of like a love note with a positive message that reminds us to simply love ourselves.
Developing a brand that is for all people. We embrace individuality and create with authenticity. We’re all about clean living and living clean. All of our premium yet affordable formulas are made with integrity. We believe in giving back, lifting spirits, showering people with love, and of course smelling good at all times!
We are a brand that does good.
How has this belief helped to underpin your mission as a brand?
To date we have donated over 15 million bars of soap and personal essentials to people in need, and we’re just getting started.
Products that are made with plant-derived and clean ingredients should be accessible to everybody. We’re thrilled that we’ve been able to give access to clean healthy products to those in need.
What would you tell someone who’s new to adopting a clean lifestyle and beauty regime ––where should they start and what people should look out for when choosing a clean beauty or lifestyle product?
Advocacy, a brand you can trust, one that stands for good, makes clean ethical products, and simply makes you feel beautiful.
What are some common misconceptions of clean beauty?
That clean products are expensive – clean, healthy products don’t need to be expensive.
What are some of your favorite Raw Sugar Living products to integrate into your daily routine?
Personally, my top three products that we’ve created include our Body Washes, Sugar Scrubs, and sustainable Deodorants. They are crafted with functional ingredients without the bad stuff.
What do you love most about your job and why? Does the reality of your career match up to your expectations? Why or why not?
My work is my life and my passion. My vision was to create a brand that had meaning beyond the retail self, stood for good, continues to give back, and makes clean healthy living affordable to everyone–Raw Sugar Living has exceeded my expectations.
My greatest tool is the ability to understand our consumers. Raw sugar has become a brand that speaks to everyone. This is what we wanted and are excited to continue growing. I’ve seen hundreds of brands come and go, and although Raw Sugar Living was born only 7 short years ago, it has truly been a lifetime in the making.
We always say we’re only as beautiful as we feel, and you can’t feel beautiful if you don’t feel clean.
Going after what you deserve in life takes confidence. Does confidence come naturally to you or did you have to learn it? What advice can you share for women on cultivating confidence and going after their dreams?
With pure grit, hard work and determination, we can become anything that we want. I’m the youngest of 5 girls with a strong southern mother who survived and thrived through constant tragedy and adversity. I became a human sponge for all of their mishaps and lessons. Love, positive thinking and reward for hard work was the core of our upbringing. I was brought up with retail in my blood beginning with my mother, and my biggest inspiration, who is a self taught, hard working and determined role model who carved out a new retail niche within a male-dominated industry and was way ahead of her time. Whether you think you can, or you cannot - you are right! Confidence is fearless repetition–and like most things in life, I believe it is learned.
It's these life experiences that helped create my vision for the company and the lesson learned–the brand pillars of raw sugar’s values.
You have to get through the ‘raw’ and difficult journey to get to the sweet ‘sugar’ destination–hence Raw Sugar Living
With success comes opportunity, but that also means you have your hands full. What keeps you inspired and motivated to keep going even on your most challenging days?
Our customers are our driving force. seeing how our products can inspire and make others happy is truly what keeps us going!
Also, being supported by an amazing internal team that champions our success is very important to our inspiration and motivation.
You are constantly innovating—What category of beauty would you love to see Raw Sugar Living disrupt next?
I’m really excited about our latest launch – a collection of planet-friendly and aluminum-free deodorants. Not only is the collection wrapped in 100% biodegradable and recyclable, plastic-free packaging, but it is made with naturally derived ingredients, clinically and allergy tested, cruelty-free and vegan.
Raw Sugar Deodorants are free of aluminum, baking soda, talc, parabens and propylene glycol. They are also infused with odor-fighting essential oils and feel-fresh fragrances. These formulas are designed to detox and balance the natural skin barrier while reducing body odor-causing bacterial growth, helping you live clean and move free.
Share your best advice, in two words or less.
“Kindly Relentless”
SHOP THE FOUNDER’S FAVORITES
RAW SUGAR LIVING
Green Tea + Cucumber + Aloe Vera Body Wash
$9.99
RAW SUGAR LIVING
Watermelon + Fresh Mint
Sugar Scrub
$15.39
RAW SUGAR LIVING
Vanilla Bean + Charcoal
Deodorant
$8.24
Projector is the Collaborative Graphic Design Tool We’ve Been Searching For
With a robust selection of templates, tools and features, Projector is the collaborative graphic design tool we’ve been searching for.
The power of visuals in modern communication is undeniable. In the world of social media, 63% of content is made up of images, and according to Quicksprout, content with quality visuals receive 94% more views and engagement than those without. Strong visuals play an important role in all facets of business, helping you connect with an audience faster, and with more emotion, than words alone.
If you own or operate a business, you’re in the business of visual communication. From Instagram and TikTok to pitch decks, presentations and print materials, visual language filters into all channels and mediums of your business. The right designs can help bring your brand to life–and thankfully, tools like Projector make it easy for teams to create professional-looking visual content, regardless of whether you have a design background or not.
With a robust selection of templates, tools and features, Projector is the collaborative graphic design tool we’ve been searching for. It’s an entirely browser-based platform that helps teams work efficiently and in real-time. (Think: Google Docs for graphic design). From launching a social channel from scratch, to crafting a deck for your next campaign, in Projector, it's fast (and fun!) for anyone to create multimedia stories for any channel or medium. Keep reading to learn more about Projector, our favorite new design tool, and discover all the ways it can help you build and scale your business.
What is Projector?
Projector is an entirely-browser based, collaborative tool for designing visual content. It’s powerful enough to support advanced multimedia layout and editing, but accessible and approachable for someone who’s never used professional design software before.
Who is it for?
Anyone who creates content for work. In Projector, people from all different kinds of skill sets–– writers, brand strategists, community managers, executives, marketers, creatives and designers –– can work together in one space that feels approachable and powerful for each of them.
What can you make with it?
Presentations, social posts and stories, email banners, zines, zoom backgrounds, digital flyers, pdfs, videos, and GIFs to name a few... Start from scratch, or get inspiration from a curated library of modern templates that can easily be customized in any way you want. Whether you’re running an Instagram channel for a brand, trying to launch a creative-side hustle, crafting a proposal deck or looking to spruce up your own portfolio and feed, Projector gives you one space to create everything.
How does it work?
Browse a curated library of professionally-designed templates (i.e. Instagram templates for highlighting your product or community, presentations for planning your editorial calendar, etc)
Stylize text and add movement with special media effects. Fill letters with videos, images, or GIFs, and add gradients, shadows, or outlines to create your own unique text styles.
Discover imagery, icons and more with the best content integrations via Unsplash, Shutterstock, Giphy, and Noun Project (for free!)
Share your story with a link to comment, collaborate, and present in real-time.
Why should you try it?
If you're looking for a more efficient and collaborative way to create visual content, Projector can help. They're making it easier for more people to connect with their audience through modern, multimedia design — and we all know good design is good business, after all.
This Entrepreneur’s Journey to France is an Invitation to Discover Your Own Joie de Vivre
“Embrace Life. Dream Big. Accept all Invitations”
Fueled by a passion and a belief, Tawnya Falkner gave up her real estate development and design career, took a leap and moved to France to create her French sparkling wine brand, Le Grand Courtâge and Provence style still wine, Très Chic Rosé.
Translated to mean “the Great Courtship”, Le Grand Courtâge signifies the courtship between French and American wine culture, grapes from different regions and the old and new world wine styles. For Tawnya, food & wine are the great common denominator of all cultures and the foundation for meaningful connection. The wines were created to embody the French spirit of ‘Joie de Vivre’ (“joy of life”) and remind people to elevate and celebrate the everyday and “Live Joyously”.
Today, Le Grand Courtâge is an award-winning national brand, but for Tawnya, success is much more than accolades and prestige. She is equally concerned with the brand’s purpose and social impact, and aims to spread positivity through her wines, through community, and through giving back.
This year they launched a new dedicated grant and mentorship program called ELEVATE, in collaboration with Ladies Who Launch, to bring the unique challenges facing women in business to the forefront, while helping to grow, mentor, and support women-owned businesses and entrepreneurs across the country.
By teaming up with like-minded partners and pooling financial resources, intellectual capital and networking communities, the aim is to provide meaningful immediate and long-term support. As an entrepreneur herself, Tawnya Falkner is career-driven, passionate, ambitious, and determined—and small businesses are often born from a small idea backed by someone with these traits.
For Tawnya, it was important to offer a platform to elevate and support female entrepreneurs, especially given the current state of work for women and the implications of this past year. Women receive less than 3% of Capital $ in the US despite owning 40% of businesses and controlling 85% of all consumer purchases. Furthermore, over 25% of female owned businesses have closed since March 2020 due to the fallout of COVID-19.
“Embrace Life. Dream Big. Accept all Invitations” is written on the back of each Le Grand Courtâge bottle and it embodies who they are at the core. Sometimes, destiny’s interventions take form in unexpected invitations. Such is the case for Tawnya, whose small leap of faith led her to discover something far greater. Le Grand Courtage is offering une invitation to discover your own joie de vivre.
We invited Tawnya to share the catalyst for her move to France, and what’s next for the brand. She also shared some sage advice for young entrepreneurs, who are looking to cultivate the confidence to go after their dreams. In the words of Tawnya herself, “Cheers to dreaming big and elevating the visionaries!”
What inspired you to leave your real estate development and design career, and move to France to start Le Grand Courtâge?
I grew up in a 3-street farming town across from the general store and some of my fondest memories are Sunday dinners and backyard barbecues. Those small town beginnings evoked a wanderlust and a passion for travel; and after seeing different parts of the world, and living in Asia and Europe, I realized that food & drink are the common thread that bring friends and family together.
Le Grand Courtâge was built on the premise of meaningful connection and reminding people to find the joy in life’s simple pleasures, like a meal shared or a relaxing bubble bath with a book.
I ultimately took the leap and moved to France to create wines which embody the French spirit of ‘Joie de Vivre’ after seeing a gap in the category on price, palate and packaging. As most French wine is traditionally branded, packaged and styled, I saw an opportunity to re-envision the category and offer something with a French cachet and elegance combined with an American appeal and price point. Since champagne is expensive, I wanted to create balanced, fruit forward wines that delight the palate and offer an affordable luxury to celebrate the every day.
What can you tell us about the history/origins of sparkling wines?
Champagne can only come from the region bearing its name about one hour northeast from Paris. All other bubbles produced anywhere else in the world (inc France) must be called “sparkling wine”.
Rumor has it that champagne was invented accidentally due to an error of excess pressure built up during fermentation causing bottles and corks to explode. Though Dom Perignon apparently said, “I’m seeing stars”, others called it the "the devil's wine" (le vin du diable).
I love this story because it shows that a mistake led to a product that has captured the imagination around the world. It shows that sometimes mistakes or failures can be happy accidents. As a society we need to be a little more open to the fact that failings can create the path for the greatest growth or lead to fantastic outcomes.
Le Grand Courage was built on the premise that food & wine are the great common denominator of all cultures to foster meaningful connections. What are some of your favorite creative food pairings to enjoy different Le Grand Courtâge wines?
Fried Chicken and bubbles are my favorite! Also fun are spicy Asian, sushi, BBQ, popcorn, and potato chips. They call sparkling the ‘scrubbing bubbles’ for the palate as it truly cleanses the tongue between bites and the acidity in the wine is a great balance point for various cuisines and cocktails. As such, anything rich, salty, fried and spicy is an excellent pairing.
Have the audacity to believe and never let reality get in the way of your imagination.
– Tawnya Falkner, Founder, Le Grand Courtâge
What do you love most about your job and why? Does the reality of your career match up to your expectations/why/why not?
I am grateful to be able to work to build this dream. As someone who is equally right and left brained, I love that I am able to focus on strategy while getting to create and be creative. I am constantly meeting people and I appreciate that I get to infuse positivity into someone’s day with our brand. For me Le Grand Courtâge, and our French Provence style Très Chic Rosé are less about drinking than what having a glass of wine signifies. It’s taking a few minutes to enjoy a delectable bite, laugh with a friend or raise a glass to celebrate your small wins.
Owning a wine company is not nearly as glamorous or romantic as it seems. There is a lot of production, supply chain, compliance and logistics that aren’t fun or sexy! The reality is that because my business requires so much of me that I do not get to spend the time connecting with family and friends that I would like. Building a business and a brand is hard, but the issues of raising capital and trying to break into a massive industry dominated by men, has been challenging to say the least.
Going after what you deserve in life takes confidence and guts. Does confidence come naturally to you or did you have to learn it? What advice can you share for women on cultivating confidence and going after their dreams?
My advice is to not discount your ideas or abilities and act confident even if you are shaking in your shoes.
From a young age I have always dreamed big and been willing to take risks. In truth while I am extremely confident that I can handle virtually anything, I believe it is equally a component of a) believing in myself and b) pushing past the fear.
Sometimes I simply have to bulldoze through the fear and think to myself, “I can do this!” I’ve also learned to live with a great(er) amount of uncertainty and constantly remind myself that I’m not going to die if something fails. When struggling, I dissect the fear, analyze it, re-frame it and then it’s sometimes just taking the leap and trusting your gut.
The bottom-line is to live your fear and face it knowing that what you are doing is for something bigger, better, greater.
With success comes opportunity, but that also means you have your hands full. What keeps you inspired and motivated to keep going even on your most challenging days?
I am inspired by the current wave of women's empowerment and females who are paving their own way and achieving success in pursuit of their passions. Women are (re)defining or breaking the rules. I believe we can impact some of the systemic issues as more of us challenge the dynamics and help balance out the dismal stats. Those before us challenged the status quo and paved the way, but there is still much to do.
Owning Le Grand Courtâge has been surreal, exciting, scary…. Every time I see a bottle on a shelf or in a restaurant, I still smile. It’s hard to believe that this dream has turned into a reality. With any success comes a lot of work and perseverance. There will be days even when you collapse in exhaustion or cry or want to pack it up and call it quits. The hustle, sweat and tears make the successes even sweeter in the end.
Also, it’s important to remember that if it was easy, everyone would be doing it. Paris wasn’t built in a day, and while we must focus on the present, it’s important to have the long game in mind.
I am appreciative for every experience because it is part of the journey and without the good and bad, I wouldn’t have this exact life and the perspective I’ve gained.
If you could go back to the beginning of your career journey—with the knowledge you have now—what advice would you give yourself?
Have the audacity to believe and never let reality get in the way of your imagination.
Know that how you handle yourself in adversity is what really defines you.
To be successful you need confidence, a thick skin and an inner circle to exchange ideas, help with the pain points and be a shoulder to cry on occasionally.
Be kind to yourself. Believe in yourself. Learn to diffuse ‘no.’ And never, ever let anyone dull your sparkle.
We believe this shift in women-centered innovation will have wide-sweeping implications for the role women will play in the future of business, leadership and the economy - therefore, it is in all our best interests to be part of the change.
– Tawnya Falkner, Founder, Le Grand Courtâge
Le Grand Courtâge founded a dedicated grant and mentorship program created to support female entrepreneurs. What were your goals going into this initiative, and what are you hoping consumers take away?
Having started three companies, raised capital, and dealt with a partnership dissolution, economic downturns, and now the effects of Covid, I have a lot of insights and perspectives on building companies.
The path isn’t easy and we want to help to mentor and empower the next generation of business owners while being a more active participant. Through my experiences in real estate development, finance, consulting and now building a wine brand and company, I have tried to approach building a business differently and believe in collaboration over competition and the power of the community.
With this in mind, I created “ELEVATE” with the intent of pooling resources, using the power of the crowd, and providing mentorship to help the next class of aspiring entrepreneurs. I believe that each of us has special gifts and we can make an impact by investing a little time &/or money to pay it forward and help support others.
We encourage everyone to think about where/how they deploy dollars, and to realize that supporting female or minority owned businesses is helping affect the course of the future and supporting someone’s dreams.
With the massive IPO successes of companies like Bumble, Glossier, Rent the Runway - the list goes on, we’re seeing a rise of women-centered innovation: products and services designed by women for women. The investment ecosystem (still) seems unprepared to understand this opportunity, much less identify, invest in, and nurture this next generation of entrepreneurs. We believe this shift in women-centered innovation will have wide-sweeping implications for the role women will play in the future of business, leadership and the economy - therefore, it is in all our best interests to be part of the change.
Share your best advice, in two words or less.
“Live Joyously”
About the Grant & Mentorship Program:
Le Grand Courtâge’s ELEVATE is a 3-part program that will provide financial grants, curated mentorship & company amplification for up to 25 selected applicants. Up to $25,000 is available for grant awards in partnership with Ladies Who Launch and White House Black Market. Individual mentorship programs will run for 6 months. Ladies Who Launch is a mission driven, membership based 501(c)3 that empowers women entrepreneurs to thrive by providing access to educational resources and capital programs. For more information https://legrandcourtage.com/giving-back/ Applications open March 29th.
Influential Women, Past and Present
In building a better future, we must draw upon the stories of the past.
We tend to focus our attention on moving forward and what's next. But in building a better future, we must also draw upon the stories of the past. Where we are now – and often who we are now – is a culmination of the influence and efforts of those who came before us. In honor of Women’s History Month, we are amplifying the stories of influential women past and present. Meet the inspired women who are inspiring women – modern day history in the making.
DANIELA RAMIREZ
Founder, Nany’s Kloset
Daniela Rameriz wearing Vince Camuto Tie-Waist Cropped Jumpsuit, Orla Zebra Canvas Tote, and Ladeinela Braided-Strap Thong Sandal
As a woman, what are you most proud of?
Absolutely everything! I love how smart, strong, intuitive, fearless, and caring women are. I’m also super proud of being able to grow life–and while I have upmost respect for all the women who choose a different path than motherhood–personally, I am very proud of what our bodies are capable of as women, and I am proud to be a mother to my son, and baby-to-be that is currently in my tummy.
What woman from history has been an inspiration to you? How did her influence change your life or inspire you?
There are so many amazing women that come to my mind, starting with my mom and the women around me who inspire me on the daily. If I have to choose someone from history, I would say Frida Kahlo. I was always so inspired by her ability to turn her suffering into art, while also being extremely strong and defying gender stereotypes way before her time.
What is a challenge you had to overcome when building your brand and business that speaks to your experience as a woman?
Since I started fashion blogging over a decade ago, one of the biggest challenges was proving to people that it could be an actual career.
Since the beginning, fashion blogging has been predominantly driven by women and often considered “superficial,” so we really had to show the world that women have a big influence in women’s purchasing decisions and in dictating fashion trends. We are not little girls playing dress up, we are the women disrupting traditional “digital marketing.”
We have to be the role models we wished we had as kids, to always lift each other up and compliment one another.
– DANIELA RAMIREZ, Founder, Nany’s Klozet
What is one thing you know now about being a female entrepreneur that you wish you had known earlier in your career?
I always knew that my female peers were not my competition because we all had something different to offer. However, I wish I knew that we were stronger when we work together and we support each other 100% selflessly.
What’s one thing we, as women, can do to better empower and support the next generation of women?
We have come so far but we still have a long way to go when it comes to female empowerment. To support the next generation of women, we can start by listening closely like we wished older women would have listened to us when we were kids. We have to be the role models we wished we had as kids, to always lift each other up and compliment one another. We can also introduce amazing women to each other, especially for job opportunities or personal growth- because, again, we are stronger together.
Share the most important advice you could give to the next generation of women today–in two words, or less.
Be authentic.
RIA MICHELLE
Entrepreneur
Ria Michelle wearing Vince Camuto Ruffled Rumple Top, Faux-Leather Skinny Pants, Orla Zebra Canvas Tote, and Ladeinela Braided-Strap Thong Sandal
As a woman, what are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of our emotional intelligence and resourcefulness. We are the backbone–we bounce back, we nurture, we create, we are everything. Find me a woman that won’t make it work.
What woman from history has been an inspiration to you? How did her influence change your life or inspire you?
Shirley Chisholm, a powerhouse who never backed down and continued to fight for women and minorities. She’s also Caribbean like me, and though I wasn’t born in the U.S. like she was, her story still feels like a larger than life inspiration. She fought against the odds–not just for herself, but for others–in spaces she may not have always been welcomed as a Black woman.
What is a challenge you had to overcome when building your business and brand that speaks to your experience as a woman?
Focusing too much on other people’s assumptions about what I do–whether that is not being taken seriously, dealing with imposter syndrome, or even negative self talk. It’s easy to listen to all the noise that aims to convince you that your industry or job is frivolous–even while you’re literally carving your own path and career single handedly.
Community is our strength.
– RIA MICHELLE, Entrepreneur
What is one thing you know now about being a female entrepreneur that you wish you had known earlier in your career?
Talk to your peers about salaries, especially minorities. Make sure you’re not undervaluing yourself. You’d be surprised to find out what you can learn from one another. It’s very helpful to know how to navigate and negotiate for yourself.
What’s one thing we, as women, can do to better empower and support the next generation of women?
Talk to each other about everything. Community is our strength. I feel very lucky to work in a field that is predominantly women. I consider it a blessing.
Share the most important advice you could give to the next generation of women today––in two words, or less.
Value yourself.
ICYMI: Highlights From Our Positively Inspiring and Entirely Digital Celebration with Minnie and Friends
Minnie moments, major keynote speakers, inspiring workshops and more.
In honor of National Polka Dot Day, the annual fan holiday celebrating Minnie Mouse, Create & Cultivate teamed up with Disney to host Positively Minnie: Polka Dot Summit 2.0 – The Digital Edition. For the second year in a row, and with a full digital refresh, The Polka Dot Summit 2.0 engaged audiences around the world and demonstrated what it means to be ‘Positively Minnie’ through fun, powerful and uplifting programming including Minnie moments, major keynote speakers, inspiring workshops and more.
The February 27th event opened with a special message from modern day Minnie muses, who like Minnie, connect the dots between bold, fun, classic, and fashionable aspects of what it means to be positively YOU!
Jonathan Van Ness kicked off the keynote sessions, sharing some sage advice on how to cultivate confidence, Marsai Martin proved Gen Z is breaking barriers with BOLD moves, Bri Emery showed us how to create a cozy #MinnieStyle WFH space, and Hailey Bieber discussed the true value of investing in yourself – mind, body, and business. Also throughout the day, celebrity stylist Maeve Reilly hosted personal styling sessions to demonstrate how to style fashionable #MinnieStyle inspired outfits that fit your personal brand, featuring a Disney nuiMOs look to match.
To everyone who tuned in, thank you for joining us—and to those who couldn’t make it, stay tuned. Below, we’ve compiled the key takeaways from our positively inspiring and entirely digital celebration with Minnie and friends.
MINNIE MUSES
A special message from modern day Minnie muses, who like Minnie, connect the dots between bold, fun, classic, and fashionable aspects of what it means to be positively YOU!
Quigley Goode | Noelle Scaggs | Katie Sturino | Brittany Sky | Deepika Chopra | Gemma Correll
“Everything that Minnie channels, I want to be that – bold, classic, fun and just full of life.”
– Brittany Sky
“What I like to do is narrow my focus. Stop thinking about the things I can’t control and think a little bit more about the things I can control in my everyday life: My mindset, my actions, my compassion, my kindness.”
– Casey Goode
A CUP OF CONFIDENCE
Jonathan Van Ness brings a strong dose of optimism to a range of hot topics including how to best cultivate confidence.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Jonathan Van Ness | Television Personality, Hair Stylist, Author, Podcaster
MODERATOR
Ashlee Marie Preston | Media Personality & Founder of YouAreEssential
“The #1 tip for cultivating confidence: positive self-talk.”
– Jonathan Van Ness
“Being bold means sitting with your fear long enough to do it anyway.”
– Jonathan Van Ness
“More awareness, more radical love and compassion–that is what I want for 2021.”
– Jonathan Van Ness
WORK FUN HOME: COOKING & STYLING YOUR SPACE
How to kick-start your day with a homemade meal, create a cozy #MinnieStyle WFH space and add some special touches to positively transform your day.
WORKSHOP HOST
Bri Emery | Owner & Creative Director, DesignLoveFest
“Minnie is always positive–a light during dark times–she’s remarkable in that way. She’s always reinventing herself with a new look or finding new ways to keep things bright.”
– Bri Emery
GEN Z: BREAKING BARRIERS WITH BOLD MOVES
Marsai Martin illuminates a different approach to letting go of fear, so that you can set (and stick) to your goals this year.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Marsai Martin | Actress & Executive Producer, (Black-ish, Little)
MODERATOR
Olivia Hancock | Associate Editor at Byrdie
“Minnie has inspired me for a long time and being a huge part of my life – she’s iconic, powerful, loves the idea of life.”
– Marsai Martin
“Be confident; which starts by loving yourself; and loving yourself starts by excepting who you are.”
– Marsai Martin
GROWING YOUR POWER OF POSITIVITY WITH HAILEY BIEBER
Hailey Bieber talks about the true value of investing in yourself – mind, body, and business – to create positive transformation.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Hailey Bieber | Model
MODERATOR
Jaclyn Johnson | Founder, CEO of Create & Cultivate
“I just love this idea that Minnie Mouse as this character, is this larger than life iconic being that exudes positivity and confidence and I think inspires so many young women.”
– Hailey Bieber
"The reality is, we are all put on this earth to do different things, so no matter what lane you are in life, you have a purpose."
– Hailey Bieber
"Surround yourself with people that make you feel dope for being you and who remind you of who you are."
– Hailey Bieber
“The best thing anybody can be is themselves.”
– Hailey Bieber
How You Can Help Small Businesses ‘Foot the Bill’
Small businesses are not only the foundation of our economy, they are the heart of our communities.
In honor of National Women’s Month, we’ve teamed up with Vans to help "Foot the Bill" and provide financial support to women-owned small businesses across the country.
COVID-19 has changed all of our lives—socially, emotionally, physically, and certainly financially—in the blink of an eye. We have seen the impact of the coronavirus pandemic hit our communities, economy, and our main streets. While the business impact of COVID-19 has varied depending on industry, there's one group that has been hit particularly hard in America: women-owned small businesses.
In honor of National Women’s Month, we are teaming up with Vans to help “Foot the Bill” and provide financial support to local, and community-driven small businesses across the country.
The Vans “Foot the Bill” initiative invites independent shops and community-driven organizations to collaborate on a custom footwear and apparel design, featuring original artwork that best represents their business’ identity. The exclusive designs are available for purchase through the Vans Customs website, and the net proceeds from the "Foot the Bill" merchandise go directly to the participating partner to help them navigate through the present challenges.
New businesses and venues are added to the “Foot the Bill” website each week, where consumers can learn more about each business’ story, how they will be utilizing the funds that they receive, and the inspiration behind the design that they have selected for their footwear and apparel.
We believe that small businesses are not only the foundation of our economy, they are the heart of our communities. Supporting women-owned small businesses – as a woman-owned small business ourselves – is at the core of what Create & Cultivate stands for.
Our “Foot the Bill” nominees spotlight three amazing, women-owned businesses from across the country that were deeply impacted by the events of this past year. Their enduring resilience is an expression of the unwavering commitment they have made to their communities. Financial support through this initiative will not only benefit their business, but their respective communities.
Meet the “Foot the Bill” nominees below and then head to www.vans.com/footthebill to shop and show your support.
Portland Flea + Food
is a monthly market held on the last Sunday of the month in Portland, Oregon. It’s a monthly gathering place for the creators, curators and collectors, and a haven for small business owners, local shoppers and communities alike. Every market features 40+ local artists, makers, and curators of the best vintage, handmade and locally-sourced goods in town. It’s almost certain you’ll discover a new favorite piece to treasure.
Portland Flea + Food has taken a huge hit this year, like so many other small businesses, including many of their local vendors. Your contribution not only helps support the monthly flea market, but its many creators, curators and collectors.
Grit N Glory
is a rock n roll inspired clothing boutique and tattoo studio located in the heart of NYC's Lower East Side, led by native New Yorkers Emily Conley and Veronica Mallo alongside internationally recognized tattoo artist and TV personality, Megan Massacre. A combination of gritty fashion sense with an original edge and the glory of an exclusive and coveted tattoo expertise.
Grit N Glory was one of many tattoo and retail shops forced to close this year. Your support not only helps the business stay afloat, but also provides assistance to their many artists and collaborators.
Sweat Records
opened in 2005 to cater to Miami’s huge audience of music lovers, as well as visitors to the tropical metropolis. They carry Miami’s widest selection of new and reissued vinyl, as well as used LPs, turntables, accessories, enamel pins, local merch, zines, and more. Today, Sweat Records is not only known for being a world-renowned record store, but its regular schedule of in-store and all-ages programming and events.
Sweat Records, like many brick and mortar retail businesses, pivoted to focus on digital sales this year and were Your purchase not only supports the business of vinyl, but helps to preserve the legacy of its many artists and musicians.
To learn more about Vans’ “Foot the Bill” program, nominate your favorite small business, or shop and support the participating partners, head to vans.com/footthebill.
MORE ON THE BLOG
Driven Women Who Dream Big
Key takeaways: Dream big and believe in yourself.
Ayesha Coker brings the Porsche brand to life as the Director of Experiential Marketing for Porsche Cars North America, Inc. She leads a high-performing team focused on experiential brand marketing, strategic partnerships, driving programs, and the Porsche Club of America. In the midst of our new reality, strong leaders like Ayesha stand out by innovating, adapting, and fostering connection in new and even unconventional ways.
As an entrepreneur, Mattie James is a total BOSS in the truest sense of the word and she really does walk the talk. Not only has she successfully turned her passion project into a thriving business but she’s bringing the rest of us along with her thanks to her online courses and downloads that teach us how to build a multi-figure business, too.
In this episode of WorkParty, host Jaclyn Johnson sits down with both of these ladies to discuss how to turn your ambition into a booming business, and level up your leadership skills. If there’s one message they want you to take away from the conversation, it’s to dream big and believe in yourself.
Subscribe to WorkParty and never miss an episode.
“In a position of leadership, you must learn how to listen to your team.”
Ayesha Coker, Director of Experiential Marketing for Porsche Cars North America, Inc
On pursuing your passion full time...
“It was really easy for me because I was fired. When you get fired you have to figure things out rather quickly.” – Mattie James
“Take action – it's hard to stop momentum.” – Mattie James
“You cannot manufacture momentum.” – Jaclyn Johnson
On the challenges…
“2020 was definitely a year to remember, but I loved watching how my team came together to create unique brand experiences for our customers.” – Ayesha Coker
“We listened to our customer and really took it to heart, banding together as a team to create unique experiences during such a challenging time.” – Ayesha Coker
On ditching the perfectionist trope…
“Being present is way more is way more important than being perfect.” – Mattie James
“There is no way to be a perfect mother, but there's a million ways to be a good one.” – Mattie James
“I like to call it life-work balance, because those are my priorities. When you honor life, you honor work and vice versa.” – Mattie James
On pivoting experiential Porsche events…
We quickly realized that nothing replaced human connection. Nothing replaced that one-on-one experience that people were longing for.” – Ayesha Coker
“Our customers are an extension of us – they're like an extended family, as we would say.” – Ayesha Coker
“We had to create our own space, so that's what we did. We called it ‘Stay Driven’ because we wanted people to stay driven during the pandemic, not to forget that we will get through it.” – Ayesha Coker
Mattie James, Influencer
““Being present is way more is way more important than being perfect.” ”
On leadership learnings...
“Having a following as an influencer is one thing, but having a community that really believes in the value of your offering is another thing.” – Mattie James
“In a position of leadership, you must learn how to listen to your team.” – Ayesha Coker
“Sometimes leaders are expected to know everything, but I find what the team needs the most is support, honesty and a clear vision.” – Ayesha Coker
“As a leader, you have to make quick decisions and then you have to stand by them.” – Jaclyn Johnson
“I tell my team that we may have different titles, but at the same time, we have the same goals.” – Ayesha Coker
On pursuing your dreams…
“Find that uncomfortable middle – you don't want to be comfortable, but you do want to make sure you're taking a calculated risk.” – Mattie James
“Get clear on what it is that you want to do, get clear on what it is that you're trying to accomplish, and when do you want to accomplish it.” – Mattie James
“We love to overwhelm ourselves with big audacious dreams. Take a deep breath, and break it down into digestible pieces.” – Mattie James
On building your dream career…
“Go with your gut. Never second guess yourself. Show confidence at all times. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Live your most authentic self.” – Ayesha Coker
“Self-leadership is so important. It’s plays into the trifecta self-awareness, self-confidence and self-care.” – Mattie James
“Be intentional about self-care.” – Ayesha Coker
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'Real Stories' From Vistaprint Alum: Jera Foster-Fell, Founder, The Social Media Saloon
Explore ‘Real Stories’ from Vistaprint Alums, and learn how entrepreneurs use Vistaprint to grow, adapt, and evolve their business.
As part of our Create & Cultivate x Vistaprint Brand Campus, we’re sharing all the ways that Vistaprint can help you grow, adapt, and evolve your business. Explore ‘Real Stories’ from Vistaprint Alums, and learn how entrepreneurs use Vistaprint as a one-stop-shop for all of their small business marketing solutions.
Whether you’re sourcing a physical product, seeking digital design services, or simply looking for inspiration, Vistaprint is the marketing partner that enables small business owners to elevate their brands – at every stage of their journey. Read on to discover how real business owners use Vistaprint's design capabilities and wide product selection to help their businesses grow organically—and how you can too.
Jera Foster-Fell, Founder, The Social Media Saloon
What do you love most about having your own brand/ business?
There are three things that I love about having my own business: First, I love being my own boss. This means I craft my own schedule, play by my rules, and work towards my own goals. 2. I get to build what I am passionate and excited about. 3. I have the ability to choose who I want to work with and have a direct positive impact on their life, which is incredibly fulfilling!
Have you always been entrepreneurial? What led you to take that first step and establish your own brand/business?
Let me rewind back to April 2015 to first give you some context. I was a graphic designer, which is what my degree was in, working at various startups and doing a bit of freelance work. Truth my told, I was absolutely miserable. I was working so hard, yet severely under-appreciated and underpaid, to the point where I developed a bald patch on my head due to extreme stress and exhaustion. I had also recently found out I was struggling with social anxiety. I had no friends and zero social life. It was definitely a dark time for me.
It was then also in April of 2015 I made a decision which had a profound impact on my life: I decided to download a 12 week PDF workout guide I had discovered through Instagram. On that same day, I decided to create an Instagram account to hold myself accountable throughout the process, because that’s what I saw so many other women doing.
This was the beginning of my social media career in regards to content creation! I absolutely fell in love with instagram. Through this platform I found community and creativity, which was so very needed at the time.
From 2016 to 2018, in addition to working on my instagram, I was also a SoulCycle instructor, but in 2018, I left to pursue being a full time content creator. By mid 2019, I knew it was time to think even bigger. I was a successful influencer on Instagram, but I wanted to figure out what more I could do from a passion standpoint, as well as what more I could do to develop an additional stream of revenue.
Towards the end of 2019, I began developing my social media strategy business, and in the beginning of 2020, I ran my first ever Social Media Saloon program, which is my three month social media group coaching course where I teach business owners and content creators how to master instagram. Fast forward to current day: I’ve taught over 100 students and I am about to launch the fourth round of The Saloon!
What challenges have you faced in launching your brand / business? How did you overcome them?
The absolute biggest challenge hands down was imposter syndrome. I have taken so many pivots over the years from graphic designer, to fitness instructor, to content creator, to now social media coach, and each time a new path is begun, it’s so easy to let fears of inadequacies or voices that say “who are YOU to be doing this?!” creep into your mind.
What I’ve come to learn is though is that imposter syndrome is something we all feel, and at the end of the day, no one has it all figured out. No one knows exactly what they are doing. We are all figuring out as we go.
The biggest thing is to continue to take action and to continue to show up despite feelings of self doubt, because that is when people usually quit. Instead of saying “why me?!” I’ve learned to replace that with “why NOT me?!”.
“Vistaprint...has been a one stop shop for all things printing and promotional, so I can easily log on, select what I need, upload my designs, and voila! ”
How has Vistaprint helped you grow, evolve, or adapt your business? What are some of the tools and services you have used and how did they help you?
Anytime it comes to making decisions for my business whether it be for marketing, development, or finances, I try to be efficient as possible. Vistaprint has absolutely fulfilled that need for me as it has been a one stop shop for all things printing and promotional, so I can easily log on, select what I need, upload my designs, and voila!
One of the most important parts of my program, The Social Media Saloon, is the community aspect. Over the course of the three months, the students really bond and develop a camaraderie which is beautiful to see. I want to add to that collective energy however I can, so I decided to develop some merch for my students: sweatshirts, hats, notebooks, pens, and post-it notes. Sending off these packages of Social Media Saloon items has been a wonderful element of surprise and delight for the students when they embark upon their social media journey!
How do visual elements play a role in your branding? How are they important to your overall marketing strategy?
I would say that the bulk of the visual elements that make up my business currently are the ways in which I present my brand via social media, so think photography, videography, graphics, etc. Coming from a creative background, these visual elements are an important representation of what I do, and in a more laid back sense, they’re an expression of myself as well. I absolutely love taking creative photos, trying new photos, or incorporating props. I also really enjoy creating short form videos, whether they be for TikTok or for Reels. The rise of different things like trends and transitions has really unlocked a new way of creating for me and has pushed me to think of new ways to show up in social media in a visual sense.
“Don’t wait until things seem perfect or when you feel totally ready. Take messy action. We learn from doing, creating, and making mistakes.”
What tips would you give to other aspiring female entrepreneurs to help them launch or scale their businesses?
Comparison is the thief of joy. Don’t compare your chapter 1 to someone else’s 57. Everyone started somewhere, and just because someone is “further along” than you doesn’t mean you can’t throw your hat into the ring.
Don’t wait until things seem perfect or when you feel totally ready. Take messy action. We learn from doing, creating, and making mistakes.
Invest in yourself. Sometimes it’s necessary to spend money in order to get to the next level. Investing in a business coach a year ago was one of the smartest decisions I’ve made for myself. It was the most money I’ve ever shelled out before, but it was a pivotal decision in me taking action to create my business.
You’re not here to please everyone. The quote from Dita Von Teese has always resonated with me: “ You can be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, and there’s still going to be somebody who hates peaches.”
Don’t take yourself too seriously. Remember to find the humor in the everyday and to laugh at yourself along the way.
What would you like to see change for the next generation of female entrepreneurs?
Here’s what I would like to see for the next generation of female entrepreneurs:
To inherently believe in their worth
To fully step into their confidence and voice
To always push boundaries and stereotypes
And lastly, a society that encourages and supports more female entrepreneurs
Jera Foster-Fell went from drowning in a soul-sucking job with no defined purpose while suffering from social anxiety, to dominating the lifestyle sector of social media and owning a multiple six-figure social media coaching business. She has crowned herself the queen of pivoting: from graphic design, to SoulCycle instructor, to content creator, to social media coach. She has built her community to more than 170k on Instagram and 1 million on TikTok (in less than a year!) and now Jera's current passion is teaching all that she's learned to others with her signature course The Social Media Saloon and with her one-on-one clients. Jera coaches on the ins and outs of creating your own personal brand online, the secrets to building a loyal and engaged community, and all the steps that it takes to use social media as a power + positive tool for your business.
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Priceless Tips for Women in Business From Stella Simona, Co-founder of Haati Chai & Amarilo
Sage advice is #Priceless.
In celebration of International Women's Day, Mastercard and Create & Cultivate are teaming up with prominent female leaders and business owners to share their #Priceless advice to inspire and elevate women entrepreneurs.
Stella Simona, Co-founder of Haati Chai & Amarilo
Stella Simona is an LA-based mother, wife, content creator, visual storyteller, creative entrepreneur and co-owner of fine jewelry brands Amarilo and Haati Chai. With a clear love for aesthetics and storytelling, Stella is passionate about skincare, wellness, and design. In addition to her creative ventures, she partners with various organizations that shed light on issues close to her heart, epitomizing the importance of allowing passion to guide your process, and fostering an authentic and impactful connection with both her brand and audience.
In her role as creative director and director of marketing and strategy, she seeks inspiration from the women in her life lives to integrate both brands into the bigger conversations that speak to the identity and values of its consumers.
Below, Stella shares her #Priceless advice to inspire and elevate women in business.
What is one piece of advice you would give to women looking to turn their passion into purpose?
You are meant to do great things. There is someone out there who needs to see you and your work and get inspired to follow their passion.
What is the most important message you have for women advancing their career or growing their business?
Do not underestimate the power of having your own voice. Invest in yourself because the success of your business is rooted in your well being-- and this trickles down to your business growth. Take mental breaks, take small vacations, workout, sleep, eat well, have fun with your family. Don’t sacrifice everything for business. We are living to not work but work to live. Balance is key. Once you nurture heart, body, and your mind your business will thrive.
What tips would you give women entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses, especially in our digitally evolving world?
Always be prepared to pivot. Have a plan a, b, c, etc. Partner with other amazing businesses and entrepreneurs whenever you can. Build a community.
What’s next for Haati Chai and Amarilo?
This past year has taught me to take it back to my roots. I began doing what I do to personally grow as an individual and an artist and giving back to a bigger cause. It’s really important for me to give back whether it’s to important organizations in our community or ones on a larger global scale.
In celebration of women in business, what are (3) small businesses you want to highlight to encourage others to shop, share and support?
Three small businesses I would like to highlight include:
Priceless advice for women in business in two words, or less:
“Love Yourself.”
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Priceless Tips for Women in Business From Lo Bosworth, Founder & CEO, Love Wellness
Sage advice is #Priceless.
In celebration of International Women's Day, Mastercard and Create & Cultivate are teaming up with prominent female leaders and business owners to share their #Priceless advice to inspire and elevate women entrepreneurs.
Lo Bosworth, Founder & CEO, Love Wellness
Lauren Bosworth is the founder and CEO behind the leading clean, personal care brand, Love Wellness. Bosworth has made a name for herself as an entrepreneur, using momentum from her decade-long career in television to shift her focus to creating and running a modern feminine care brand from the ground up.
Love Wellness was born in 2016 after Bosworth began experiencing chronic health issues for over five years and old-school products from legacy brands didn’t address her problems. With the guidance of doctors and some trial-and-error, Bosworth finally found relief through a holistic approach that combined natural products with a healthy lifestyle.
Ultimately, through this journey, Bosworth became aware of the lack of innovation in the women’s healthcare category, and made it her mission to change it by sharing the information she had learned with women everywhere. Love Wellness initially launched with a focus on creating better-for-you feminine care products, but has since grown to include multivitamins, supplements and other products to help women tackle issues like gut health, stress, sex, and skincare.
Beyond products, Love Wellness is committed to giving women support and the space to learn, engage, and share experiences with each other through the brand’s community platform, ‘The Love Club’. Bosworth is seeking to change the narrative around self-care culture and empower women to feel supported, welcomed, and safe during their wellness journeys.
Below, Lo shares her #Priceless advice to inspire and elevate women in business.
What is one piece of advice you would give to women looking to turn their passion into purpose?
If you know you are working on something good, don’t give up easily. Never lose sight of what you are trying to achieve.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in business? How did you overcome them?
I think for me the challenge was the transition from being known as somebody who was on television. When you're on reality TV, you're definitely put into a certain box. It was finally through education paired with effective products that I was able to bridge the gap between being known for TV and being taken seriously as an entrepreneur.
What is the most important message you have for women advancing their career or growing their business?
Growing a business will have low lows and very high highs - embrace the good times and the failure. This will teach you how to adapt and pivot, both of which are important to scaling your business.
What’s your perspective on the importance of mentorship? What advice do you have for women seeking mentorship or looking to become a mentor?
Mentorship is extremely important and helps you look at things through a different lens. My advice for those who are seeking mentorship - remember that mentors are people too. Invite them for a coffee (or a virtual one these days) and have a casual conversation...ask them about how they’re doing. Let the relationship build organically.
What tips would you give women entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses, especially in our digitally evolving world?
Build a team you can learn from and trust. As we continue to work from home and live in this virtual world, it’s important now more than ever to trust and rely on your team. Secondly, you need to hire people who may know more about certain subjects than you do - that’s how you grow and take the business to the next level.
What’s next for Love Wellness?
Our strategy is hyper-focused with a crawl, walk, run strategy meaning we don't bite off more than we can chew. We have some exciting things coming up this year, so be on the lookout!
In celebration of women in business, what are (3) small businesses you want to highlight to encourage others to shop, share and support?
Priceless advice for women in business in two words, or less:
“Trust Yourself”
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Priceless Tips for Women in Business From Monique Rodriguez, Founder and CEO, Mielle Organics
Sage advice is #Priceless.
In celebration of International Women's Day, Mastercard and Create & Cultivate are teaming up with prominent female leaders and business owners to share their #Priceless advice to inspire and elevate women entrepreneurs.
Monique Rodriguez, Founder and CEO, Mielle Organics
Monique Rodriguez is the CEO and founder of Mielle Organics, a Black-Owned global hair and skincare brand. Since founding the beauty brand in 2014, Monique has expanded her empire from one signature product to half a dozen collections. Mielle Organics has been distributed in more than 87 countries and can be found in more than 100,000 stores across the U.S.
The inspiration behind Mielle Organics was born through Monique’s journey of self-discovery after loss. After the passing of her son, she used haircare as an outlet to regain her natural roots and build a community for women to connect and share their stories.
In addition to her work with Mielle Organics, Monique is recognized as a leader in the business community as well as a role model for women of all ages. Gems from Monique on her experience as a Black entrepreneur in beauty, business, and more can be found on her ‘Secret Sauce to Success’ Podcast.
Below, Monique shares her #Priceless advice to inspire and elevate women in business.
What is one piece of advice you would give to women looking to turn their passion into purpose?
One piece of advice I would give to women looking to turn their passion into purpose is to remember your why. There will be amazing days and then there will be hard days where owning a business isn’t always glamorous. So it’s important to remember the why that’s attached to your vision, so you can push forward.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in business? How did you overcome them?
As a Black woman in business, I would say one of the most notable challenges I faced in the beginning of Mielle Organics’ founding was raiding funding. When my husband and I founded Mielle Organics, we backed the company with our own funds. We were later blessed to receive funding from investors, but as new business owners that area.
What is the most important message you have for women advancing their career or growing their business?
The most important message I have for women advancing their career or growing their business is to always remember no one can grow your vision like you can. If you have an idea or a plan, don’t allow yourself to be distracted from executing it.
What’s your perspective on the importance of mentorship? What advice do you have for women seeking mentorship or looking to become a mentor?
I believe that finding a mentor is very important. As you elevate to that next level in life or in business, it’s important to speak with someone who’s already where you want to be. Without a great mentor, new business owners end up working harder and not smarter.
What tips would you give women entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses, especially in our digitally evolving world?
Leverage social media to connect with your customers.
Develop a great team that understands your vision and knows how to creatively communicate that vision to your customers.
Develop quality partnerships that align with your vision and allow you to grow.
What’s next for Mielle Organics?
The next chapter for our business includes continuing to create opportunities that aid Black women succeed in business. Whether it’s through our recent Secret Sauce to Success Retreat or our partnered education program with the Newark Business Hub and Rutgers University, we are dedicated to creating new opportunities for women to thrive in our community.
In celebration of women in business, what are (3) small businesses you want to highlight to encourage others to shop, share and support?
Three small businesses I would like to highlight include:
Priceless advice for women in business in two words, or less:
“Stay motivated.”
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Priceless Tips for Women in Business From Sharon Miller, Bank of America's Head of Small Business
Sage advice is #Priceless.
In celebration of International Women's Day, Mastercard and Create & Cultivate are teaming up with prominent female leaders and business owners to share their #Priceless advice to inspire and elevate women entrepreneurs.
Sharon Miller, Bank of America's Head of Small Business
Sharon Miller is the head of Small Business at Bank of America with over 25 years of bank, wealth management and payments leadership experience, and is a member of the company’s Management Operating Committee. Her team is responsible for providing 12 million+ business owners with a full range of financial products and services through Bank of America’s network of 4,300+ financial centers including 2,300+ Business Advantage centers as well as 17,000 ATMs and its award-winning digital banking platform.
Her team provides a full suite of financial advice, guidance, products and solutions to companies with up to $5 million in annual revenue. Each client relationship is personalized so that entrepreneurs have the power to achieve their business and life priorities.
Sharon appears regularly on national and local TV and radio, discussing small business issues and advocating for the nation’s entrepreneurs as the engine that drives the U.S. economy. She serves as a council member on Bank of America’s Global Diversity and Inclusion Council and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment within the company.
Below, Sharon shares her #Priceless advice to inspire and elevate women in business.
What is one piece of advice you would give to women looking to turn their passion into purpose?
Many successful businesses are built around a passion. I hear stories about parents creating products to meet their children’s needs, students developing tools to learn more efficiently, and restaurants centered around a family recipe. It is important to do thorough research and think through questions before transforming an idea into a business. Look into the industry at large – where are their holes? What impact will your product or solution have on the marketplace? Will your product or service solve a new issue, or perhaps create a more effective solution? How can you make your offerings unique – which will help them stand out? Following this initial research, work with a banker or tap into mentors in your network to develop a strong business plan. To ensure your best chances of success, lay out your short- and long-term goals, avenues for funding and staffing needs before opening your doors. Planning is essential to successfully starting your business and critical to navigating bumps in the road as you become established.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in business/a position of leadership? How did you overcome them?
Heading up small business for Bank of America – overseeing 2,600 small business associates serving 12 million+ clients that drive the engine of U.S. economic growth – is my dream job! I’m proud to represent the company as a woman in a leadership role.
Most recently, one major challenge our team faced was rapidly creating our Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) application and portal last year. Our team worked around the clock to get the PPP process up-and-running, as we know that getting this funding into the hands of business owners is essential to keeping them operational, their staffs employed and local communities thriving. Bank of America was the first major bank to begin accepting PPP applications in early April. To achieve that, we redeployed and trained thousands of teammates and developed new technology—all in a matter of weeks. It was one of the most challenging but rewarding experiences I’ve had so far during my time with Bank of America. I am unbelievably proud of how our team responded resiliently in an uncertain time.
What is the most important message you have for women advancing their career or growing their business
Throughout my career, I’ve made it a priority to build and surround myself with a strong network of peers and mentors. I would encourage aspiring women business owners – as well as those generally interested in advancing their careers – to do the same. The ability to tap into a network provides women with an opportunity to connect, and share common experiences, which is immensely helpful especially for women entrepreneurs looking to get their feet off the ground and grow their business. A strong network can unlock access to resources, expertise and unexpected opportunities, all of which can help women thrive.
What’s your perspective on the importance of mentorship? What advice do you have for women seeking mentorship or looking to become a mentor?
A good mentor can be an invaluable resource for any business owner—and we know from our recent research (based on a survey of more than 1,000 small business owners nationwide) that a majority of women entrepreneurs believe having a mentor directly contributed to their professional success. I currently serve as a leader and mentor for the Global Ambassadors Program, which has given me the incredibly rewarding opportunity to connect with emerging women leaders and accelerate their leadership and economic empowerment.
For those seeking mentorship or looking to become a mentor, I suggest looking into your local chapter of national organizations dedicated to supporting women in business, whether that be the American Business Women's Association, National Association for Female Executives or other organizations. At Bank of America, we have a longstanding partnership with the National Association of Women Business Owners, or NAWBO, and I would highly recommend getting involved with your local NAWBO chapter where you can tap into a strong professional network, either as a mentor or mentee.
What tips would you give women entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses, especially in our digitally evolving world?
As we’ve seen over the past year, the shift to doing business digitally has only been accelerated by the pandemic. I would strongly encourage entrepreneurs to virtually meet with a trusted advisor to develop a clear business plan to help them navigate the current economic environment. A trusted advisor can be a friend, mentor or even your small business banker. Whether it’s setting up short-term goals, evaluating funding options or discussing different digital innovations that can aid a business, an advisor will be able to provide input that will help a business owner set their own growth path.
As business owners continue to navigate challenges on the road to recovery, it is important to remain resilient, creative and innovative. Our recent research found many business owners stayed open by implementing enhanced safety measures, changing their primary revenue stream (such as distilleries that retooled to make hand sanitizer; or clothing designers investing in the production of face masks) and shifting to a more digitally-focused strategy (such as shifting sales to e-commerce, or boutique fitness studios offering online classes when physical locations close).
In celebration of women in business, how can we encourage others to shop, share and support?
Despite the challenges of the past year, an overwhelming positive has been seeing the way people are investing directly into their own communities. I have been inspired by just how much communities have rallied around their local businesses—and businesses have returned the favor by investing back into their communities through donations to support coronavirus relief efforts and offering products like face masks and hand sanitizer. Small businesses are a vital part of our communities and by committing to support these businesses, we can help to jumpstart their recovery.
There are so many small businesses deserving of promotion, that I’d be remiss to just pick a few! I encourage everyone to continue to support local businesses in their communities, and shop small whenever possible.
Priceless advice for women in business in two words, or less:
“Foster Community.”
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Priceless Tips for Women in Business From Morgan DeBaun, Founder & CEO, Blavity Inc.
Sage advice is #Priceless.
In celebration of International Women's Day, Mastercard and Create & Cultivate are teaming up with prominent female leaders and business owners to share their #Priceless advice to inspire and elevate women entrepreneurs.
Morgan DeBaun, Founder & CEO, Blavity Inc.
Morgan DeBaun is the Founder & CEO of Blavity Inc., the leading media company for Black culture and Millennials. She is also the Founder of WorkSmart, her signature advising program and The WorkSmart Podcast, both designed to help small business owners scale their business.
Morgan founded Blavity Inc. with the intention to build a media company that is a reflection of the new majority of America, and to create a platform for Black thought leaders, creatives and storytellers. Blavity, Inc. began as one brand with 4 college friends in an apartment, and has grown to encompass 5 brands with a company full of employees dedicated to serving the multifaceted lives of Black millennials.
She is committed to small business owners and helping them scale up their business to employ more people, build their operations and take home more profits through her free WorkSmart Advisor Podcast and her mentoring program WorkSmart Advising Program.
Below, Morgan shares her #Priceless advice to inspire and elevate women in business.
What is one piece of advice you would give to women looking to turn their passion into purpose?
My advice to women looking to turn their passion into purpose is to focus on a core demographic and solve their problem.
What is the most important message you have for women advancing their career or growing their business?
People growing their small business should always keep learning new skills and studying great leaders so they can learn new ways of thinking. Entrepreneurship is a journey and successful business owners will constantly need to navigate changing customer and market environments.
What’s your perspective on the importance of mentorship? What advice do you have for women seeking mentorship or looking to become a mentor?
People looking to find mentors should narrow in on skills or areas of development they are looking to grow in and focus on finding advisors for that specific area.
What tips would you give women entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses, especially in our digitally evolving world?
Entrepreneurs looking to grow their business in today’s digital environment should stay committed to exploring new technologies and tools but try not to spread themselves too thin. There are a lot of digital tools in the business that can help you automate or streamline your process internally in your company or reduce your overhead.
In celebration of women in business, what are (3) small businesses you want to highlight to encourage others to shop, share and support?
Books, wine, and self-care through health & beauty have been staples of my quarantine routine and I encourage others to shop the small businesses that I’ve used continuously throughout the last year. Shelves Bookstore is an incredible online and mobile pop-up bookstore that is committed to celebrating the joy of reading. McBride Sisters has a beautiful story, great-tasting wine and is the largest Black-owned wine company in the US. Golde’s mission is to make wellness accessible and fun through their superfood-filled smoothies and skincare products.
Priceless advice for women in business in two words, or less:
“Think Big!”
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Priceless Tips for Women in Business From Denise Vasi, Founder of Maed
Sage advice is #Priceless.
In celebration of International Women's Day, Mastercard and Create & Cultivate are teaming up with prominent female leaders and business owners to share their #Priceless advice to inspire and elevate women entrepreneurs.
Denise Vasi, Founder of Maed
Brooklyn-native and Los Angeles-based Denise Vasi first became known by many for her high-profile modeling and acting career, but the mother of two has also organically built an inclusive online community. In 2018, Denise launched the digital resource, Maed.co, that focuses on nutrition, beauty and mindful life-balance for women who find themselves juggling careers and parenthood. Growing up in an inclusive community of engaged women, Denise realized that she was consistently being asked to share her tips and suggestions on parenting, beauty and non-toxic living living. With the encouragement of the many women in her community, she created Maed with the intention to inspire, inform and empower her readers.
Since launching Maed, Denise has exponentially grown her close-knit audience with her well-informed clean beauty recommendations, vegan recipes, and conscious parenting tips. The site has since evolved into a supportive community and thriving business, partnering with dream brands and ambassador programs, while helping the community advocate for equal rights and encouraging them to invest in themselves through self-care challenges.
Below, Denise shares her #Priceless advice to inspire and elevate women in business.
What is one piece of advice you would give to women looking to turn their passion into purpose?
Be consistent, show up every day and don’t aim to replicate what other people in your space are doing. While it might work great for your peers/competitors, what makes your brand and your business unique is your voice, your opinion, and your authenticity.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in business/a position of leadership? How did you overcome them?
I originally pitched a man my idea for MAED, in hopes of finding business support for my idea. He didn’t understand the aspect of what I was trying to do.
If I had the support of his company I would have been able to build my site much faster and have some financial backing. But because he passed and because I decided to go out and do it on my own, I can proudly say I own my business outright, learned every role it takes to run my business and I only have to answer to myself both financially and creatively.
What is the most important message you have for women advancing their career or growing their business?
Hire out your weaknesses! It’s important that you can perform each task of your business but then it’s vital for every entrepreneur to know when it’s time to add people to the team.
What’s your perspective on the importance of mentorship? What advice do you have for women seeking mentorship or looking to become a mentor?
Even though there are men who have taken women under their wing, it’s more the exception than the rule. In my opinion, if you're a woman who has #MAEDit, you should seek out women with talent and mentor them. Show them how you were able to break glass ceilings. If you can mentor other females and show them what worked for you and your business and what didn't, you could save another woman months, maybe years of mistakes.
What’s next for Maed?
I have a lot of big goals for Maed but my immediate next steps are to continue building out my team and delegating responsibilities, expand my community and to collaborate more with inspiring women and business owners. It takes a village!
In celebration of women in business, what are (3) small businesses you want to highlight to encourage others to shop, share and support?
Care Package is female founded. They do incredibly beautiful curated boxes of hand selected items from other small businesses. I love sending these boxes as gifts.
SoCal ISR gives infants and kids the skills to survive in water with Infant Swim Resource Self-Rescue swim lessons. I love businesses that are modeled this way because it affords a lot of mothers the ability to run their own businesses offering them tools, resources, but most importantly credibility.
54 Thrones is a Black-owned clean beauty line that recently made Oprah's 2020 Favorite Things list. The founder, Christina Tegbe, creates intimate skin experiences through African beauty rituals. Their body butter in the bomb!
Priceless advice for women in business in two words, or less:
“Trust Yourself.”
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'Real Stories' From Vistaprint Alum: Cass Dimicco, Co-Founder, Aureum Collective
Explore ‘Real Stories’ from Vistaprint Alums, and learn how entrepreneurs use Vistaprint to grow, adapt, and evolve their business.
As part of our Create & Cultivate x Vistaprint Brand Campus, we’re sharing all the ways that Vistaprint can help you grow, adapt, and evolve your business. Explore ‘Real Stories’ from Vistaprint Alums, and learn how entrepreneurs use Vistaprint as a one-stop-shop for all of their small business marketing solutions.
Whether you’re sourcing a physical product, seeking digital design services, or simply looking for inspiration, Vistaprint is the marketing partner that enables small business owners to elevate their brands – at every stage of their journey. Read on to discover how real business owners use Vistaprint's design capabilities and wide product selection to help their businesses grow organically—and how you can too.
Cass Dimicco, Co-Founder, Aureum Collective
What do you love most about having your own brand/ business?
I love that everyday is a new challenge. Our team is very small so I’m constantly developing new skills in every area of the business. One day I’m tapping into my creative side designing new pieces or coming up with our next campaign, the next day I’m strategizing business development or coming up with a marketing plan.
Have you always been entrepreneurial? What led you to take that first step and establish your own brand/business?
I’ve always been someone who isn’t afraid to think differently and take some risks. When I decided to launch Aureum I believed in myself and what I was capable of. I think it’s important to take it one step at a time and trust in your abilities to learn as you go. Sometimes the greatest lessons can only be learned through firsthand experience, so I was not intimidated by not having a formal business background.
What challenges have you faced in launching your brand / business? How did you overcome them?
Right now, our biggest challenge is expanding our team and scaling. Finding the right people is key to growing your business but it’s not always easy to find people with the same level of passion. I’ve been asking my peers who have experience building a team for advice – never be afraid to ask for help.
“Aureum has always relied heavily on visuals to tell the story of our brand. We love being able to utilize the Vistaprint postcards to add campaign imagery and a note from the founders. ”
How has Vistaprint helped you grow, evolve, or adapt your business? What are some of the tools and services you have used and how did they help you?
Vistaprint's design capabilities and wide product options have enabled me to personalize my product experience and made the customer unboxing experience Instagram-able, which has helped my business grow organically. We include a postcard made with Vistaprint in every one of our orders. It’s the little touches that make a customer want to come back and purchase from you again.
How do visual elements play a role in your branding? How are they important to your overall marketing strategy?
Aureum has always relied heavily on visuals to tell the story of our brand. We love being able to utilize the Vistaprint postcards to showcase our latest campaign imagery and include a note from the founders. Exciting visuals encourage customers to share their purchase on social media which has been vital to reach new potential customers. We pride ourselves on having strong campaign imagery and it is one of the most exciting parts of running the business and building our brand. Vistaprint helps make it all possible.
“Don’t always follow the playbook of how things are supposed to be done. Sometimes having no experience is the best way to be innovative and think from the customer’s perspective instead of a business owner.”
What tips would you give to other aspiring female entrepreneurs to help them launch or scale their businesses?
Don’t always follow the playbook of how things are supposed to be done. Sometimes having no experience is the best way to be innovative and think from the customer’s perspective instead of a business owner.
What would you like to see change for the next generation of female entrepreneurs?
I haven’t gone through the process of raising money for Aureum but when I hear how low the percentage of VC funding goes to female entrepreneurs it’s really disappointing. I hope for the next generation I see more opportunity for women to raise capital to fund their businesses.
Cass Dimicco is an entrepreneur and digital talent. In September 2019, Cass founded jewelry brand Aureum Collective alongside her fiancé, Matthew. Aureum is a jewelry brand of statement pieces designed to elevate the everyday. The brand has quickly grown into a 7-figure business and has been seen on countless top influencers and celebrities, including Kylie Jenner, Bella Hadid, Emily Ratajkowski, and Hailey Bieber. The pieces range from plated to demi-fine and are made in the US and designed by Cass DiMicco herself.
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