10 Must-Have Products for 10 Million Women On-the-Go
We know how stressful being a boss on-the-go can be. Don't break a sweat.
@thecultofshe
October is Women’s Small Business month. A time where we support and acknowledge the nearly 1200 women who are starting new businesses every day. A time where we celebrate the momentum of the 10 million women who are innovating in their careers.
According to the Survey of Business Owners women-owned employer firms employ 8.9 million people. They generate 1.4 billion dollars. The societal and economic impact is clear.
Dove has always encouraged women to be confident. Not only to define beauty on their own terms, but to be as bold with their ideas. Beauty confidence filters into boss confidence. And it inspires other women to likewise be their best selves. If you can’t see it, you can’t be it.
To celebrate the 10 Million Strong, here are 10 must-have products to make the life of the on-the-go-get-em business woman all the better.
Designed for the mobile lifestyle, this lightweight bracelet also doubles as a charger. Get rid of on-the-go anxiety about a dead battery, charge up and then charge into that meeting. That seat at the table is yours. Or charge during the meeting. Because, multi-tasking.
For the 32-hour business trip, you want a carry-on that can handle anything that comes its way. With a built-in USB port, sturdy shell, and a design to fit almost all airlines carry-on restrictions, you can get in and out of any airport with time to spare.
Suave Keratin Infusion Dry Shampoo
On-the-go doesn’t leave a lot of down time. If you need a touch-up or a little refresher, you can get to the root of the problem with a spritz of dry shampoo. Revive your hair, extend your blowout, and look fresh. (It’ll be our little secret.)
Amazon Echo
As founder it may feel like you’re on a small business quest alone, but you’re not. That voice you hear in the background is the sound of Alexa, the brain behind the Amazon Echo. The hands-free speaker you control with your voice. It plays music, controls lights, reads audiobooks, the news, and answers any pressing question you might have. Like, Alexa, what’s my commute? Or Alexa, set a timer for 30 minutes. And you can crank out those morning emails and get out of the house on time.
Dry Spray Antiperspirant
You don’t have time to wait around, and with Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant you don’t have to. It goes on instantly dry so you can just shake, spray and go. Plus, it lasts up to 48 hours -- because it’s important to stay dry during high-stakes moments -- and also cares for your skin. The last thing you want to worry about in a pitch meeting are your underarms.
Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant was a sponsor at Create + Cultivate Atlanta.
The 2017 Planner
Your life might depend on your phone, but what if you lose or break your phone? Every well-prepared boss woman always has a backup, and the best way to make sure that you’re not breaking a sweat when tech fails is to have a planner with you.
Wifi Hotspot
There will be times when you need to answer an important email that requires more than what your phone can do. Even in 2016, wifi is not easily accessible in every corner of the world, so make sure you’re ready with a handy wifi hotspot to save you on any occasion. Because the wifi always, always manages to pull a vanishing act when that 11th-hour email needs to go out.
Airborne or Vitamin C
If work puts you up in the air, you’re susceptible to poor plane air quality and are more prone to getting sick. Stock up on the vitamin C and drinks lots of fluids. The first step to making sure you’re your best self while traveling is taking care of your physical health first.
Business Cards
When you’re traveling, you’re ready to network. But don’t ever miss out on an opportunity to introduce yourself to any potential clients-- whether on the conference room floor or in line at the TSA security check. For every situation, make sure you have your business cards easily accessible. Moo makes all kinds of cards for the modern, creative professional.
Parachute Percale Venice Set
When you finally crawl into bed after a long day’s work or make it home after a trip, you should experience joy. The joy of expertly woven sheets crafted from Egyptian cotton. The joy of affordable luxury. The joy of knowing you gave your day your all.
Sarah Michelle Gellar Talks Transitioning From Hollywood to Startup Founder
"At the end of the day you want the brand to be bigger than the person."
photo credit: Kelley Raye.
Successful women from different careers who now run a startup.
That’s the story behind Sarah Michelle Gellar and Galit Laiblow co-founders of Foodstirs who took the Create & Cultivate stage this past Saturday in Atlanta to an audience of over 500 attendees. They talked a lot about taking the concept from idea to reality, overcoming doubt, as well as shifting out of their previous roles.
‘Part of being an entrepreneur,” admits Laibow, who ran a successful PR firm or 12 years, “is not being afraid.”
They made the jump after shopping for ingredients for a baking play date with their kids. “Ingredients,” says Gellar, “that had more consonants than vowels.” Thus, Foodstirs was born and switch into roles that hadn’t previously imagined for themselves.
“As an actor I’ve watched my industry change,” Gellar explains. “When I started you were either a movie actress or a television actress or you were serious and you did theater; the three didn’t meet anywhere. Then it changed and people realized you could jump from medium to medium.” She was looking for something else when the opportunity arose. ‘Ways,” she says, “[I] could still innovate and still be creative. Also, I’m a mom now, I have two young kids at young and I don’t want to be working 19 hour days and not see my children.”
“Even when you’re a producer you still have other people to answer to. It’s not necessarily the product you intended to make. What I’ve loved,” she says about her new role as founder, “is that now when we have an idea, what you’re seeing is everything we wanted it to be, because it's up to us and only us. It’s our battle to win. It’s so satisfying in a way I’d never experienced and it’s using my reach and creativity in a new way.”
"What you’re seeing is everything we wanted it to be, because it's up to us and only us."
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As for the partnership Laibow says she was hesitant to partner with a “celebrity.” Having come from the PR world she knew that celebrity doesn’t give a brand a fast-track to success; sometimes it's the opposite. “There are so many celebrities putting their names on things and the consumer is much more savvy. I did have a lot of reservations. I knew that if we did have a celebrity it had to be someone who was really passionate. Sarah and I had many late nights talking about it and she really believed it in. She’s a real co-founder. We both invested our own money and time and we don’t get paid right now.”
“It’s been fascinating,” says Gellar, “you think we would have each just done what we’re good at; it doesn’t work like that. In the beginning there were days when it was just us. Neither of us knew how to HTML code so I went and learned how to HTML code our emails. They were maybe not the best or the most professional, but that’s how you start and that’s how you learning.”
“Fail is the first attempt in learning. I don’t see failure as a bad thing. I see it as exercise. When you exercise,” adds Gellar, “you want to work out until your muscle fails so that it grows bigger and stronger. To me those are the steps in learning. That thought in your head is invaluable.”
"Fail is the first attempt in learning."
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“I always wanted the brand to stand on its own,” Gellar says, “I’m not the face of the brand, but I am the co-founder. At the end of the day you want the brand to be bigger than the person. I don’t want to first thing you think of to be me, I want the first thing you think is ‘Wow! That tastes really good.’”
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#CreateCultivateATL: Our Favorite Quotes From Yesterday's Panels & Keynotes
All the quotes to get your week started off right.
We can't begin to describe the feeling of how inspired we are after spending an entire day with 500 amazing boss women under the Atlanta sky. Create & Cultivate Atlanta is a wrap and we are so happy that it was by far one of our best yet with so many amazing speakers, sponsors, and all of our amazing attendees who have also inspired us as well!
If you missed out on this weekend's festivities, don't fret! We'll be sharing video soon from our keynote speakers, but for right now, take a look at all of our favorite sound bites from our speakers that will serve as the perfect mantras for your Monday to get you inspired. And if you attended, comment and let us know what were some of your favorite lessons that you took away from our panels and keynotes yesterday!
It Must Be in the H20+: How This Beauty Company Is Building a Strong Future for Girls
A good foundation matters.
2016 marked the kickoff off year of H2O+ Beauty’s Making Waves Initiative.
The international beauty company that believes that water and hydration are the foundation of true beauty and great skin, made it their goal to directly support organizations whose social missions align with their own.
They partnered with Girls Inc. of Alameda County, a non-profit organization on a mission to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. It was a natural pairing.
H2O+ knows that strong, empowered girls bolstered by encouragement from their community make for even stronger, empowered women. Beauty comes from within, so does the courage to believe in yourself. But none of us do it alone.
"Beauty comes from within, so does the courage to believe in yourself."
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In 2013, Girls Inc. opened its new headquarters in Alameda County, becoming the first and only resource center for girls in the area. They provide year-round academic achievement and skills-building programs to underserved girls as well as counseling services to over 8,000 girls and families.
When Cindy Melk founded H2O+ Beauty in 1989 she had the goal to put beauty back into the hands of the consumer. She was only 27 years old when she had the idea, but coming from an entrepreneurial background, she had the support of her father, John Melk, the name behind successful ventures like Blockbuster, and her mother, the founder of a successful spa in Chicago. She pitched her father on her business plan, proved her plan viable, and received a small amount of seed funding to get the company up and running for about 6 months. While the rest was up to her, she had the foundation and the support from her family, something that H2O+ recognizes as crucial to success and a bright future.
H2O+ believes that, “progress is forged when communities support, challenge, and inspire women. In our work, we are inspired by the courage of our own founder in her quest to define beauty on her own terms.”
They fulfilled the 2016 mission by sharing the proceeds of their best-selling Oasis Hydrating Treatment with a $10,000 donation to Girls Inc of Alameda County. Moreover, H2O+ Beauty employees supported girls in their local community by volunteering more than 40 hours of their time in workshops and mentoring sessions at the Girls Inc. of Alameda County Simpson Center for Girls.
H2O+ plans to build on the success of their partnership with Girls Inc. with an even bigger and more impactful contribution of time and resources in 2017. We also got wind of a very special event that they’re hosting with Girls Inc. this fall (details are still under wraps), but stay
To learn more about Girl Inc. of Alameda County, visit here. To learn more about H2O+ Beauty Social Mission visit here.
Links We Love: CreateCultivateATL Conference Edition
What we're reading to prep for next Saturday.
While some of us are busy planning our Halloween costumes or gearing up for #CreateCultivateATL, Snapchat is reportedly planning for a 25 Billion dollar IPO.
Smiling again. This is why we do what we do. Who run the virtual reality world? Girls.
Looking for some delicious motivation? Shonda Rhimes used Baskin-Robbins to learn responsibility.
More ice cream stories that matter.
It's a bloody mess out there. Have you gone through your social menopause yet?
We're all crazy-making busy. This writer points out why it's going unnoticed.
Working toward parity is tough. It took 35 years to narrow the pay gap by this amount.
We talk a lot about authenticity at our conferences. But has it become a buzzword, marketing trap?
This is making it almost impossible to wait for the holiday.
And because we all deserve a little laughter. Here's an invitation to laugh together.
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Here's How to Master the Interview Follow-Up
How strong is your follow-up game?
“Follow-up” and “follow through” are two very similar concepts that are key to your success in the business world. And you can bank on potential employers paying attention to your post-interview follow-up skills as an indicator of your follow-through when it comes to the job.
See, landing the interview and then nailing it, that’s just half the battle. You need to follow up with finesse to inch ahead of other candidates. One way to do so is to send a personal thank-you note. The art of the thank you is not lost. We worked with Papyrus, the social expressions company that knows all about a professional thank you, to create the ultimate list of follow-up to-dos.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Before you leave the interview, ask the interviewer about the timeline for making a hiring decision to know when to follow-up.
The way you follow up with your interviewer will indicate how you will follow up with your potential clients. For instance, sending a quick “Thanks for the meeting today” email is great. Most hiring recruiters say the faster you get this out, the better. It shows that you’re on top of things, you have tenacity and you want to stay top-of-mind. Sending more than one email in a week is a bother.
IF AT FIRST YOU DON’T SUCCEED, DUST YOURSELF OFF
And try again.
If they said they will make a hiring decision within a week, sending one more polite inquiry after that week has passed is more than OK. In fact, it’s smart due diligence. You never know why or when something might have slipped through the cracks.
"Landing the interview and then nailing it, that’s just half the battle. You need to follow up with finesse."
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In the second follow-up, mention recent company news, whether it’s a blog post you enjoyed or a news article that included the brand.
Asking, “Did I get the job?” is not what this follow-up is about. Instead, direct your efforts so that the person hiring thinks, “This candidate should get the job.” People don’t like a teacher’s pet, but they do like someone who pays attention. And if you weren’t on the list of potential hires, this might put you on it.
BE BOLD, BUT NOT BRASH
Hiring managers and founders are inundated with emails. Get out of their inbox and into their head with a handwritten note on beautiful stationery.
It should be a bold and to-the-point thank you follow-up in which you reference a specific point of the conversation that you’d like to expand on. It’s not enough to thank them for their time— you need to tell them WHY you deserved it. There is always a tidbit of information that will show how closely you were paying attention.
A good outline of what to write is as follows:
Dear Jackie,
What a great meeting this afternoon! When you mentioned your company is really focused on growing your social media presence among Gen Z, the ideas started flowing. As someone who has doubled their own social media following over the last year and reports a 4% engagement rate, I feel confident that I can help you achieve that goal. I would love to talk over more ideas and strategies with you. Thanks again for your time and the opportunity to meet.
Best,
Arianna
Use all those 140-character skills you developed with Twitter to nail the art of the quick note that will make them want to click through — aka call you back. And what are those “ideas” you mention? That’s for you to share in interview number two. Make sure you drop the note in the mail as soon as you can so that it lands on their desk 2–3 days post-interview.
THE STATIONERY YOU CHOOSE SAYS SOMETHING ABOUT YOU
When you’re picking the card, consider the audience and your reasoning.
Is the company a start-up and you suspect the founder would consider a more playful approach? Was the interview in a more corporate environment where something classic would be appreciated?
After considering your audience, consider yourself. Cards can reveal as much about you as the words you write in them. Here is a chance for you to show your interviewer that you understand the culture of the company, but also feel comfortable injecting your personal brand and approach into their world.
TO SEND OR NOT TO SEND…A GIFT
For some, this is an overeager act. For others, it shows that you’re really serious about the position because sending a gift after every interview would not be good for your bank account.
Choose something that’s fun and won’t take up space on their desk. À la compliment pencils. What’s not to love? Send them with a note that says, “Pencil me in as your new hire.” Or super cute bow tie paper clips for that stack of paper you noticed on their desk.
KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO MOVE ON
Even if you think you lit that interview on fire, it’s possible another candidate came in and burned the building down.
There are going to be plenty of jobs you want and don’t get. The most important thing is to keep building professional bridges, which is why you should also always ask if it’s OK to connect with them via LinkedIn before you leave the initial interview. Make the connection, that way even if you don’t get the job, they are still in your network and they can see your updates.
You never know when that job, or another that’s more suited to your skills, will open up.
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Your #CreateCultivateATL Packing List
All your conference essentials in one place.
As we prep for Create & Cultivate ATL, we want to make sure you're locked and loaded for the big day, and that includes all the things that you should bring on-site! While you'll be walking out more than what you came with (both knowledge and swag-wise), there will be a few things that you will need to make sure to bring to make the most out of your day!
Conference Badge & Federal-Issued ID
If you have been sent your conference badge last month, you're going to want to keep it in a safe spot! Make sure to bring your badge along with a federal-issued photo ID when you come to Mason Fine Art for a speedy entrance.
If you haven't received your badge, don't fret. Your badge will be available at registration, but make sure to have your photo ID for pick-up!
Dress To Impress
Not only is Create & Cultivate one of the most visually-stunning conferences around town, but our attendees are the best dressed in town as well! Make sure to grab the amazing #OOTD, because you never know, you might just end up in our OOTD roundup after the conference! (Check out some past OOTD inspo here.)
iPhone + Charger
This is not the time to forget your phone or run out of battery, and while you might think this never happens, it does. Double check your bag before you leave your hotel. You don't want to miss out on Tweeting amazing soundbites from panels, snapping the best shots from the conference, and even miss grabbing a selfie with one of your favorite speakers. (Although if you do forget your camera, there will be charging stations on site for you because we've got your back like that.
Business Cards
Create & Cultivate offers you the perfect chance to network with fellow attendees and speakers, and a lot of collaborations were born out of meeting at Create & Cultivate from our past attendees. Want to make a lasting impression on those that you meet? Make sure to have your business cards on deck and nurture those relationships into what could be the next big collaboration born out of Create & Cultivate!
The 411 On The #CreateCultivateATL Break & Pop Ups
Prep yourself before you wreck yourself.
Photo by Arnelle Lozada
The countdown is on for Create & Cultivate Atlanta this month, and while we're planning what places to visit, who to meet and even what to wear, we want to make sure you're ready for the big day too.
We have so much in store for C&C ATL, including all of the pop-ups you'll be able to check out during our break (5PM-6PM)! Check out all of our sponsors that will be hosting amazing pop-ups and treats for you to check out and shop below!\
Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream
A special treat for all of our VIP guests from Jeni's! Head over to the VIP lounge during break for some splendid ice cream!
Dove
#ShakeSprayGo with Dove at their booth and snap a pic at their featured GIF photo booth!
Squarespace
Learn how to step up your blog game and make the most out of your website and the Squarespace Studio.
Amazon Fashion
Take a break and at the Amazon Fashion booth and treat yourself with a black and white mani with a special design, and enter to win one of their amazing giveaways!
Crown Royal Vanilla Pop Up Bar
Grab a sip of Crown Royal's new vanilla-flavored whisky, and check out Adrianna Adarme's (A Cozy Kitchen) cocktail workshop in a special breakout session during break!
Kendra Scott
Stop by the Kendra Scott airstream and shop their winter and signature collections, create your own custom piece of jewelry at the Kendra Scott Color Bar™, or spin the prize wheel for a chance to win!
Papyrus
Get inspired with Papyrus and stock up on stylish cards to create a lasting impression! Visit during Happy Hour to enjoy coffee, cards, and sweet treats.
Simon G. Jewelry
Visit their booth and check out their try-on station to check out all the diamonds (and even snap a pic of them) and their "king pop" popsicle stand for a cool treat!
bebe
Visit bebe to enter to win a $500 gift card by taking a photo at their floral photo wall, grab a boozy popsicle, get a free key chain pom-pom and mini bebe Bubbly champagne, and meet and greet with Jessi Malay during the break!
it bed by Sleep Number
Visit Sleep Number to check out their newest brand it bed (and dream in it too), and also take a break by recharging and refreshing yourself at their relaxation lounge! Did we mention that they'll also have a great swag giveaway?
Iconery
Visit Iconery to shop their on-trend pieces from their most popular designers (Stone Fox Bride, Luv Aj, Victoria Six, Anne Sisteron, Mata Brenner, Mara Carrizo Scalise) including pieces few collections. They'll also be holding a giveaway for a chance to win one of their top selling necklaces!
Daniel Wellington
Daniel Wellington is on tour and the mobile pop-up shop is making a VIP stop at Create Cultivate! The Time Traveler will be showcasing all DW collections, including it's newest Classic. The pop-up is fully equipped with a coffee serving station, complimentary leather embossing, and an interactive Photo Booth. You can also enter to win a watch by snapping a pic in the Photo Booth and posting to Instagram using the hashtag #DWonTour!
Simon Malls
Not only will Simon be welcoming you to our attendee happy hour on Friday, but their pop up at Create & Cultivate will allow you to shop from their highlighted brands. Not only that, but they'll also be hosting a giveaway for you to enter!
Mark & Graham
Head over to Mark & Graham's pop up to get a sneak peek at their new fall product, and get on-site calligraphy from ATL calligrapher Ashley Buzzy with the purchase of a new leather zip pouch! You might want to get your monogram, or favorite short saying on it (Rosé all day, anyone?) Also, make sure to shop and pick up a glass of champagne during break!
Framebridge
Visit Framebridge for a chance to win a gallery wall! Find out how many tape measures there are in their bowl, and you just might be the lucky winner if you guess right! Also, let Framebridge know what you want to frame and for whom this holiday season and the best entry gets a frame for themselves and a frame to gift for the holidays. Not only that, they've created free digital downloads you can get on their site. They will print and frame them, and the link to that will be in your gift bags!
Richer Poorer
Richer Poorer will be debuting its newest addition to its innerwear line- the bralette- exclusively at Create & Cultivate- a month before it launches to the general public! In addition, they will be offering tee and muscle tank bundles available only at their booth!
Stop by H2O+ Beauty to check out their reimagined skin and body care lines that combine the power of pure water with the latest advances in skin care technology. Enjoy a consultation with their certified esthetician and sample products recommended just for you. Take home travel sized samples and enjoy discounts on their full collection.
Also featuring pop-up activities from:
Don't forget to #TreatYoSelf by heading over to the Beauty Lounge and checking out the pop-ups below!
BeGlammed
Head over to BeGlammed's pop-up beauty bar to get gorgeous makeup touchups and hairstyling. At the booth, beGlammed’s Founder Maile Pacheco will host a series of contouring sessions throughout the day where you can learn how to sculpt the perfect cheekbone. Hairstyling will focus mainly on braiding and dry styling. Also, pink bubbly champagne and delectable cookies will be available to the pop-ups participants!
Zeel
It's going to be a long day, so make sure to take a breather at Zeel's pop-up and get a 5-10 minute mini-massage. You deserve it, girl.
Shea Moisture
Visit Shea Moisture's Pop Up to check out 6 of their star collections, and also treat yourself with quick touch ups and braids done by celebrity hair stylist David Lopez at their beauty stations! Also, guests will receive one full-sized product as well.
Sara Happ
You should treat yourself, but also remember to treat your lips with some love! Head over to Sara Happ's pop-up to visit their lip scrub station, and learn more about all things Sara Happ!
Nubian Heritage
Visit Nubian Heritage's pop up to travel around the world and grab a passport to visit each of their collection stations. Once you've finished your trip and have your passport stamped, you'll receive a small gift bag with a full-sized product and a leather passport holder. Also, they'll be offering hand massages and will also have bite sized desserts inspired by their Coconut & Papaya collection.
Learn more about the full day schedule here, and see you all in two weeks!
This One Productivity Hack Will Change Your Entire Work Day
Good news is-- you already do it.
It's not just quantity when it comes to sleep, it's quality. Your brain needs those zzzs more than you know to be your most productive and it's something that Sleep Number Chief Strategy and Customer Relationship Officer Melissa Barra knows plenty about.
Studies have endlessly shown that pulling all-nighters is bad for business and that sleep health is key to mental and physical well-being.
Melissa, who has a Sleep Number setting of 30, shared that "quality sleep is essential for health and for performance. Sleep affects all aspects of our life – from mental agility, to physical activity, to general wellness. I am excited to see the beginnings of a cultural shift that recognizes that sleep at the center of a healthy life. A person that sleeps well performs better!"
WE KNOW PERFORMANCE AT WORK IS AFFECTED BY SLEEP
Like most of us, Melissa says that she feels a difference at work when she doesn't get enough shut-eye. "Sleep is core to performance in every part of my life.”
"When I’ve had a good night’s sleep, I feel energized, alert and more creative. My problem-solving and decision-making skills are better."
Some of us think we don't need more than five hours. Others think if we don't look at what time we finally close our eyes, we can trick ourselves into thinking we slept longer. But the body knows and so does your brain the next day. Skimping on sleep means skimping on you.
The right kind of sleep also matters. So...
IF YOU'RE NOT SURE HOW YOU’RE DOING, TRACK YOUR SLEEP
If you lay in bed, wide-awake tossing and turning, you’re not getting quality and restful sleep. A restless state of sleep can have damaging effects on the next day's productivity.
Melissa explains, "Because I track my sleep, I know that on days I haven’t sleep well, it ends up being the start of a vicious cycle. My workout isn’t as powerful; I don’t eat as well as I typically do; and my productivity suffers! Knowing and feeling that difference really drives me to try to get the best sleep I possibly can."
"A restless state of sleep can have damaging effects on the next day's productivity."
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Tracking your sleep can help you with your sleep goals, which in turn will help you with your career goals.
WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR SLEEP
Studies have shown that consuming caffeine six hours before you plan to hit the hay can have haywire effects. You may be technically asleep, but void of the full benefits you should enjoying.
"While I love coffee, I won’t drink it after 3 p.m. because I know caffeine will still be in my system by the time I go to bed and can disrupt my sleep," says Melissa.
Likewise research has found that exposure to the blue light from phones, tablets, and other screens can disrupt sleep and the content can lead to a ‘racing mind’. Melissa addresses this issue by shutting "down my email and texts one hour before I go to sleep – this also helps me wind down from the day and protects my sleep."
REMEMBER: THE HUSTLE DOES SLEEP
If you want your brain to be on it's best behavior, you have to treat your body right.
"I feel most productive on the mornings when I’ve gotten great quality sleep," says Melissa. "When I arrive at the office before anyone else is there. I find that I get my best thinking and best work done during that time."
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Why Nicole Richie Would Make the Best BFF
As if you don't have reasons enough already.
Inventor. Artist. Ex-Girlfriend. Australian. These are all titles Nicole Richie took on in season 2 of her VH1 series "Candidly Nicole." But while it's universally accepted that Richie is a quick-witted comedic Queen, capable of the above and more, she also takes her businesses (multiple), her friendships (more than multiple), and her role as mother (just 2) very seriously.
Almost nine years ago Richie launched House of Harlow 1960, shortly after the birth of her first child, becoming mom and mom to her career simultaneously.
“At that time I had so many fears,” she says. “I had a newborn baby. I was twenty-six. I was starting a new business. I was one of three people that I knew with a baby that was my age. I had no idea what the future would bring. I didn’t even know if I wanted to turn it into a full-blown brand yet.”
Which, is exactly what is has become. The initial 50-piece costume jewelry line has developed into ready-to-wear, eyewear, footwear, and handbags. The most recent collection was released in partnership with Revolve.
Though entrepreneur wasn't exactly a role she imagined for herself, Richie got a taste of that business life, liked it, and last November held the inaugural Pearl xChange in Los Angeles. It is her live-event series for women who want to make connections, share knowledge, and listen to speakers like Gwyneth Paltrow and Marianne Williamson drop some.
At first glance, it’s very similar to Create & Cultivate. That’s not a problem for Richie, who was a keynote at Create & Cultivate Atlanta in conversation with HelloGiggles co-founder Sophia Rossi.
“This is a perfect example,” Richie says, “of how two people in the same business with the same interests understand that we each have strengths. Joining together only helps us spread our wings, reach even more people, build the energy and make the vibration stronger.”
“Joining together only helps us spread our wings, build the energy and make the vibration stronger.”
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It’s the matter of competition being able to life us higher, together, not further apart and it’s a direction she’s focussing a lot of her energy. “I am able to see other people’s strengths where I have weaknesses. That’s not putting myself down, that’s understanding who I am and wanting to build myself up and make myself stronger. I’m so excited to be a part of the Create & Cultivate conference and spend time with other like-minded people who have been in this business longer than me.”
This approach is a through-line with Richie and many of her successful friends.
“Rachel Zoe is an example of a woman where there are a lot of parallels in our careers,” says Richie. “That being said, do we look at each other as competition? Absolutely not. Rachel is Rachel and I’m me. We’re two individuals. We have different lives. I’m so happy for her and I love going out and supporting her."
“Rachel has been very open with me,” she adds, “and this is very important to say, she’s been so open about the ins and outs of her business. She's never once said, ‘You’re on your own.’”
This approach has only helped them both. You can do it by yourself, Richie explains, “but you’re really limiting yourself. I can only get so far on my own."
She brings up longtime friend Sophia Rossi, who likewise understands the sisterhood of business. “Her business is HelloGiggles," says Richie. "It’s online, it’s so different than what I do, but we have found ways to collaborate and I’m really passionate about my friendship with her. She’s somebody who is a true connector. She has no skin in the fashion game, but she loves me and she wants to see her friends succeed.” Friends like Clique Media co-founder Katherine Power. “Sophia started a few years after Katherine, but she is the first person to say, ‘I just copied everything Katherine did. I listened to everything she said and she was my mentor.’”
“Those girls are the perfect example of two friends going after kind of the same thing but who have done nothing but support each other and maintain the closeness. You’re never going to produce the same thing, it’s just not possible. We don’t have the same souls.”
With Pearl xChange Richie wants to take this notion a step further. “When I hear other girls say, ‘Oh, I don’t have a lot of girlfriends,’ or ‘I don’t trust other girls,” I, personally, don’t understand what that means,” she says. “We have to get over that. It has to be a thing of the past and it’s really important to me. To say, or ask, ‘How can I help?’ ‘What can I give?’ and ‘What is the one thing that I have that I can offer?’”
She brings up advice Marianne Williams gave the audience at the first Pearl xChange. “She spoke a lot about us understanding our own strengths and how that takes more confidence than we know. Feeling good within ourselves about what we have to offer— that’s harder than a lot of people think.”
Adding, “There is no how-to book, but the idea of ‘this is how you do it’ can be thrown out. You can create your own way.”
“The idea of ‘this is how you do it’ can be thrown out. You can create your own way.”
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In her thirties Nicole feels more confident and secure in her decisions, her "own way," than ever before. That means exploring and pushing herself and finding new sides of who she is. “You really have to put yourself out there, give everything that you have, and do it authentically.”
“It’s been a slow and steady process of me finding the confidence in myself to take the reigns of my own business and my own life.”
“I think the key is to find the thing that you love and figure out how to turn that into a business. And just be that. Don’t worry about being anything else. Then you’ll feel like your life has alignment and true flow.”
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Rock the Vote President Says Young Female Voters Are Louder Than Ever
From equal pay to reproductive rights.
This November marks one of the most historic elections. Ever. Not only did Hillary Clinton make history when she secured the win as the first female nominated by a major political party for President, but Millennials, the biggest and most diverse generation the United States has ever seen are primed to be a driving force at the polls. In 2008 and 2012, voters under 30 were a crucial piece of winning the presidential election. They stand to make the same impact this election year.
It's something that Rock the Vote, the non-profit, nonpartisan organization committed to galvanizing youth to vote has been encouraging since 1990.
It was 26 years ago when a bikini-clad Madonna motivated generation MTV to vote. Wrapped in an American flag and rapping about former Presidents Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln, she delivered the first PSA for Rock the Vote.
Today, according to Rock the Vote, the diversity of Millennials is not simply reflected in age, background, ability or race, but in the way Gen M approached problems, finds opportunities and envisions the future. 80 million strong, it is a generation that wants a better, more just future for all. Young women are a driving force behind that vision. According to RtV "anyone who ignores the importance of young women in this election, does so at their own peril."
"Anyone who ignores the importance of young women in this election, does so at their own peril."
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In a poll released earlier this month with Rock the Vote's partner USA Today, they found that 73% of women between 18 and 34 strongly disagree with banning an entire religious group from entering to the United States. They've also found young women across the country who are engaged in issues that matter to them, like defending access to reproductive rights, reforming the criminal justice system, and securing equal pay.
Young women are poised to make a big difference in the world by voting for candidates who will elevate the issues they care about across every office, not just President. It's why Create & Cultivate has teamed up with Rock the Vote. From encouraging young women to register to talking about issues that matter most, we asked Rock the Vote President, Carolyn DeWitt about the importance of this election, the power of the vote, and a generation that's only getting stronger.
Why is it important for Rock the Vote to be at Create & Cultivate?
It’s so important for us because we know that young women are some of the most passionate and engaged people in this country. Young women are playing a more vocal role than ever before in their families, communities, politics, business and across every facet of American life. Create & Cultivate is a place for young women to come together and learn how to carve out a life for ourselves that makes us proud. At Rock the Vote, we know that participating in elections is also a way, one of the most important ways, that women can shape our futures.
What kind of galvanization have you seen from young women this election cycle?
Young women are getting louder about the issues we know affect our lives. From demanding equal pay for equal work, pushing back against sexism and defending our access to reproductive rights, this election cycle has been one where women are speaking truth to the powers that be. We may want different things, we may have different visions of where we want to be in life, but we are empowered to fight for it and we are only getting stronger.
What do you think a female POTUS would do for the future of our country?
This is a really big milestone for our country—one that has been long overdue. Across the globe, we currently have a record number of female world leaders. This is important because women often approach challenges differently and are often more likely to consider the direct impact of policies on women. But more than that, we are seeing that issues are the driving force behind engagement in elections. Young women are becoming more independent. We want to go to college and not experience crushing debt. We want to get paid what we’re worth in the workplace. We want to turn the tide on climate change and leave for our kids and grandkids an environment that is healthy. No matter who is president come November, we are going to keep fighting for these issues.
"Young women are becoming more independent. We want to get paid what we’re worth in the workplace."
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Do you remember the first time you voted and what that feeling was like?
The first time I was eligible to vote in an election, I was living in Kenya. It was a midterm election. I wasn’t particularly interested in politics; in fact, I would say I was completely turned off by politics. But, I had seen the impact of democracy and the power those in office had over their country and its people. I witnessed that the right to vote, especially free from intimidation was something I had that those around me didn’t. I had visited countries and knew people who had died fighting for a democratic system. I couldn’t take that right for granted. I went to the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi and completed an absentee ballot.
Why is this election so important for young women?
There is a lot at stake this election. It’s easy to forget how far women have come in the last few decades and that it wasn’t that long ago that women didn’t have rights over their bodies, protection against domestic violence or harassment in the workplace or equality in places of education, including school athletics. This election, we’re not only fighting for progress, but we’re also fighting against regression. We are more independent and stronger than ever, but there is still work to be done from access to reproductive rights to equal pay. We are also more likely to play active roles as advocates for our families, our friends, and our communities and will fight for the issues that impact the lives closest to us. We know that when we work together we can change the course of our country and build an inclusive system that works for all of us.
"When we work together we can change the course of our country and build an inclusive system that works for all of us."
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What have you seen and learned as a business woman that you can share with our audience?
I’m so grateful that I have had the experiences that have shaped me into who I am today, leading Rock the Vote during this critical time in our nation’s history. I have experienced the democratic process here at home and abroad, in an effort to build more just and equitable institutions. When I was in South Africa, I met with various leaders who helped end apartheid and set up a democratic state and the victims who were imprisoned under apartheid. In Kenya, I was part of the Constitution of Kenya Review Commission to build a more democratic state. As an adult, I’ve been the primary advocate and caretaker to a family member with disabilities. Whether as a mother, daughter, sister, neighbor, or employer we often play the role of caretaker and advocate for those in our lives. To me, that means it’s even more critical that we use our voice to express our values in the democratic process. I will always be working to build and protect democracies and fighting for a political system that welcomes everyone’s perspective.
To register and Rock the Vote click here.
Share why you're voting this election in the comments below!
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What Kelly Mindell of Studio DIY Learned From a 13-Year-Old
Kids these days are crafty.
photo credit: Studio DIY
DIY is more than project-based crafting-- it’s an attitude, a lifestyle, and according to Kelly Mindell of Studio DIY it's also about making life a party. Born and raised New Jersey, Kelly says she's been a DIY-er since birth and an entrepreneur since 15. She moved to LA in 2011, founded her business the same year, and has put her crafty head and hands to good use since.
Dedicated to a good time, Studio DIY gives readers the kind of excited feeling they had as kids. Think: the moment the piñata broke open and candy rained from the sky. The time you had donuts for dinner. The day you spend running through sprinklers. It's joy in motion.
It's also a lot of work.
We caught up with Kelly to talk biz, what she's learning from younger generations, and the one thing she's bad at (that you'd never, ever expect).
How do you DIY your life?
I've always been one to ask questions and not play by the rules. In high school, I asked if I could do an independent study to build my portfolio instead of spending hours in classes I knew I wouldn't use. In college, I did the same and built Studio DIY during the process! I've always worked tirelessly to make these situations my own and, well, if that's not the true basis of DIY, I don't know what is!
How do you DIY your business?
What I love most about DIY is that it's all about figuring things out and finding a solution, and lord knows that running a business involves figuring things out on the daily. The cool thing about blogging is that no two blogs or business models are the same, so I get to make Studio DIY completely my own... and make things up along the way, too
What was the learning curve for you taking something that was crafty and project-based and scaling it into a business?
Was? How about "is"? Ha! Building and scaling this business is a constant learning curve! DIY blogging takes so many hours, such extensive overhead and so much man-power all while things are changing constantly. I have to learn to grow my revenue, bring on and manage new team members and determine which new avenues for the brand are the right ones to take. And that's all in my spare time!
"DIY blogging takes so many hours, such extensive overhead and so much man-power."
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Where do you see the movement heading? Are you interested in getting into the world of AR/VR?
I've noticed that readers, myself included, are placing more and more value on the personality behind the content, versus the content itself. Now that the DIY and blogging markets are so saturated, it's often the person behind the business that people relate to, are interested in or want to build a relationship with. One of the best things I did was start showing and sharing more of myself on my platforms. Sure, I create larger-than-life projects for a living, but I'm also a person... who struggles with infertility, who steps over a pile of clothes to get to her bed, and who really likes watching Teen Mom and eating pizza on a Friday night. It's fun to share those parts of me and build connections with my readers on a much deeper level. And I think that's becoming more important than ever.
What are you learning from the younger generations, especially as it’s related to tech and social media?
So much! I have a growing tween and teen audience and it's been fascinating to learn how differently they consume media. My 13 year old niece helped out at the office over the summer and I quizzed her about everything she knew so I could learn more. YouTube is integral for reaching their generations and that's precisely why we recently launched our YouTube channel.
Life is not a Pinterest board. Can you walk me through the BTS reality-- how much goes into it?
I work around the clock and the work is still never done! Our studio looks like a never-ending craft tornado blew through it. I work with my husband which is rewarding and challenging all at the same time. Most nights our dinner consists of avocado toast eaten on the couch while answering emails. I have certainly not mastered a work life balance, but I know that this is the season to work my hardest so my priorities can shift in the coming years.
How have you grown up as a business woman in the digital scene?
I've gone from being a one-woman show to managing an incredible team. I've also gone from knowing nobody in the industry to now calling my colleagues some of my best friends. Both have been some of the most rewarding experiences in my career, and I am thankful every day for the amazing community of women that surrounds me!
What social platforms are most relevant to your business? Are there platforms you’re more hesitant to grow?
Instagram has been by far the most relevant and important, as far as community building goes. It's where my largest and most interactive audience lives. And Pinterest is integral as far as circulating content and exposing it to new eyeballs each day. It's a big traffic driver. Snapchat has also become far more important to me than I ever expected.
On the flip side, I know I'm not the only one who was thrown for a loop when Instagram Stories launched. On the surface, making the jump from Snapchat back to Instagram seems like a no-brainer (one app, better view counts), but I treat Snapchat very differently than Instagram. Snapchat is my core audience and almost like a built-in focus group. I love having one-on-one conversations over there and posing questions to get real time answers. Yes, I can do that on Instagram Stories too, but the audience is much larger and therefore the response much more overwhelming. It has been nice to have a smaller platform like Snapchat so I can build more intimate relationships. That said, I'm sure I'll find a way to incorporate Stories soon enough!
photo credit: Studio DIY
What parts of your career would you say have expanded your mind the most?
Without a doubt the amazing community that surrounds me, both with fellow bloggers (now friends) and readers. Our community spans the world and it has been so fun, and eye-opening, to learn more about them. About how they learn, what they like, how they range from being 13 to being the grandmother of a 13-year-old. How cool is that!? I love being able to interact with people of all walks of life on a daily basis.
Is there anything you’ve found that you’re just not good at?
Well I have terrible handwriting! Ha! Learning to be a manager has been a huge struggle for me, but as a boss, that's not something that I can just "not be good at" so I'm learning as I go! But the handwriting thing... that's just hopeless!
How do you separate person from brand?
Right now, it's quite a blurred line! Now is the season in life where I am fully immersed in my business and my personal life and business life blend together quite often. However, soon enough the business will be much bigger than myself, and I will be much more fiercely protective over my personal life once there are little ones in the mix!
Your husband Jeff is an integral part of your team. How did you go about building the rest of it?
When I knew it was time to hire someone, I determined two things: what I wasn't good at and what took up the most of my time. Getting what you're bad at off your plate is the most important thing because there's always someone else out there who's good at it. So that was the first major hire I made. Then, when I was in a better financial position, I was able to start taking off the tasks that I was good at, but that took up more time than I had. As the business grows, I continue to look at these two pain points and hire accordingly!
"Getting what you're bad at off your plate is the most important because there's always someone else out there who's good at it."
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What’s next!
We're putting a lot of effort into our new YouTube channel and we're about to launch the biggest endeavor yet for Studio DIY, but that's all I can say... for now! On the personal side, Jeff and I are excited to start growing our family in the near future and begin a whole new adventure as parents!
VIP Tickets for #CreateCultivateATL are ALMOST gone. To hear Kelly speak on "You Do You" grab a ticket before it's too late!
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What Success & Authenticity Mean to YouTube Star Ingrid Nilsen
Living in her truth, every damn day.
In the world of YouTube there are those considered to be “top of their game.” Beauty blogger Ingrid Nilsen is one such name. Her charm and smile are infectious. As is her honesty. "First of all," she says in a recent "July Favorites" upload, "I just have to say that I am on my period."
“I don’t see myself at the top as much as I see myself as successful,” she tells us when we chat a few weeks later. “Those are two different things for me. I think that my success is rooted in the intention of helping other people and moving in the direction of love. Everything that I do in my life revolves around those two intentions.”
Ingrid has followed that intention from the very beginning of her jump into YouTube. Now 27, she uploaded her first video over seven years ago. It hasn’t always been smooth vlogging. The wwwaves are rough and first videos can be choppy. Ingrid’s first upload has been described as painfully awkward, something that makes her laugh now, but in and of itself is a success, having started video blogging as a way to get over a fear of public speaking.
“That,” she says, “has kept me rooted and has made me feel truly successful. You can have millions of subscribers, you can, numbers wise be at the top, but you can also feel really unhappy being there too. That’s why I don’t equate being at the top with my success. I felt really successful from the beginning.”
“Reflecting on that, recognizing and accepting that,” she says of the initial video, “will carry you through difficult times you’re bound to encounter.”
She’s had her share. She first got into makeup to deal with the passing of her father. It became a way to express what was happening inside of her. “Experimenting with makeup was a way for me to navigate my grief from losing my father when I was a teenager,” she says. It’s also why she doesn’t agree with the idea that you can’t be a makeup blogger and authentic. “I think behind every person wearing mascara, lipstick, foundation… is a story that’s waiting to be told.”
"I don’t equate being at the top with my success. I felt really successful from the beginning.”
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“I talk a lot about being comfortable with yourself,” she says when we talk beauty standards and authenticity. She comes up against a fairly standard argument, those who say that the two are mutually exclusive. “I think beauty standards in general are harsh and I wish our standards were simply acceptance and love-- the world would look very different, but people think makeup is used as a mask,” she says, “and it can be. But for so many makeup is used as a tool to navigate something internal. And if this is the tool that helps someone navigate something inside of themselves, let them have it. Let them have this outlet. It’s so important.”
She does acknowledge that there is much more pressure for young girls. "There is definitely a lot more," she says, "because there’s more information and access,”
"When you become completely consumed by these images-- which, is not to put anyone consuming the content at fault because there is just so much and you come across it without even trying to look for it-- it has an effect on young people. It makes them feel like life is a competition and love is a competition, and that beauty is a competition. It’s not. I think that digging into and trying to find a deeper awareness of yourself is really important to navigate this world we live in. This stuff,” she adds, “isn’t going to go away.”
Though she's a "beauty" blogger, dishing on winged eyeliner and lipstick hacks, Ingrid feels "the most beautiful when I’m crying." She tells us. "I may not feel that way the entire time, but I'll remind myself, this is the moment when I feel the most beautiful because I’m completely exposed.”
“Everyday, whether it’s a good day or a bad day I look in the mirror and see myself. I’m not always thrilled, but I see myself , I'm grateful for that. That has not always been the case.”
Still from "Something I Want You to Know."
In her coming out video titled, “Something I Want You to Know,” Ingrid told her subscribers the she was gay. The video has over 15 million views to date. "I'm gay," she tells the camera, laughing and crying, "it feels so good to say that."
Though it felt “natural and important" to her, it was also "a big step in bringing my audience closer and letting them in. I didn’t want to hide. I didn’t want to shut them out."
"YouTube has been a space where people can be themselves, and be themselves in whatever light that is that day and receive acceptance," she says. "I think that’s why it’s why it’s so accepting of the LGBQT community. It’s rooted in authenticity and acceptance at its core."
Receiving acceptance is a huge part of why she keeps doing the work and sharing herself with the world. “I give a lot, but I also receive so much from the people I meet and the comments I receive online. I am fueled by the people in my community who care and accept me.”
Even with success she’s not immune to impostor syndrome. “I’ve felt this so many times, but those feelings are coming from a place of fear. Everything I have and love in my life right now are all things that once completely terrified me. So I think the way I work through those feelings of, ‘I have no idea what I’m doing’ or ‘why are people following me?’ stems from my willingness to surrender to my mediocrity. I’m not going to be good at everything. Getting to that level of humility takes work."
“A lot of times of what you really want is on the other side of fear,” she notes. You have to go straight through, there’s no shortcut.
"I am fueled by the people in my community who care and accept me.”
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When it comes to her work, she's found, not a shortcut, but a bit more balance. In the beginning she was shooting, editing, and posting the same day-- a grind that wore her fine. “When you’re doing that for years,” she says, “it can really take a toll on your general well being.” Now she does a quarterly brainstorm with Eileen, who manages her day-today. They "brain dump" ideas and then really hone in on the forthcoming season, events, and holidays. When possible she likes to shoot a month in advance.
“I think that there is always a balance,” she says about creating content. “Content that your audience wants but doesn’t require you to lose your authenticity. There’s always a sweet spot and I try to find that sweet spot."
She was “a lot more stressed out,” in the beginning. “I was pumping out as much content as I could, whenever I could, and the turnaround was much faster.” But she knows that the work she put in at the start, what she calls an “I will not stop mentality,” is what got her where she is today. “Having the experience of a one-day turnaround was essential to my growth.”
Today she is committed to being her most authentic self. "You have to know where you stand and what you feel comfortable with." So how does Ingrid know what she’s comfortable with? “Sometimes what I’m comfortable with is being uncomfortable," she says, "especially if it means that I’m moving in the direction of emotional bravery."
She doesn’t know exactly what’s in her future, but she does know that "it will be exciting." She credits this to moving "in the direction of truth and helping other people. I would love to figure out a way to make something that’s tangible-- a product, book, or something that I can put into people’s hands and have them feel the energy that I put into my work and my life every single day.”
Ingrid will be joining us on panel at #CreateCultivateATL-- there are just a couple of ticket left!
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The Importance of Making Time for Your Skin
Don't let the complexities of a career ruin your complexion.
photo credit: Laura Dee Photography
This post is in partnership with Cetaphil.
Your approach to career is simple: every day you bring enthusiasm and dedication to your work. Two simple and effective practices that streamline your process.
But can the same be said for your skin? When we get caught up in the hustle of our careers we tend to fall into a couple of bad habits. A great skincare routine isn’t one that should fall by the wayside. No matter how hectic work gets you can achieve great skin with a few gentle yet powerful products from Cetaphil.
Here’s how to get on the good side of great skin.
THE NIGHT BEFORE IS CRUCIAL
You wouldn’t walk into an AM presentation without preparing. That’s just bad form.
While your skin doesn’t need a thorough color-coded Keynote, a refreshed looking face starts with night before prep.
Dermatologists have been advising clients for decades that cleansing their face before sleep is one of the best steps to take for health and beauty. Skin has the ability to be replenished while you’re asleep.
The best-selling, mild, non-irritating Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is designed to work on all skin types, gentle and soothing enough for even the most sensitive skin. It removes the residue that can clog pores without stripping your skin of its natural protective oils.
It’s so simple you have no reason to not opt for healthy and beautiful skin.
If you’re in a rush, or working on your computer in bed, you can apply a liberal amount and remove excess with a soft cloth. You don’t even need water, it’s that gentle. That’s a skin routine that works for those of you who are constantly working it.
GET A MOISTURIZER THAT DOES MORE THAN ONE JOB
If you want a moisturizer that’s pulling double duty like you, Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion is ideal for use on your body and face. It contains a blend of 6 moisturizers plus skin-essential Vitamins B5 and E to provide long-lasting hydration for healthy-looking skin.
Moisturizing your skin helps keep it looking refreshed and it also helps keep makeup from looking cracked. Look, dryness and irritation can be distracting. You don’t want to waste time worrying about your skin. By incorporating a simple moisturizer into your day-to-day you’ll spend less time looking in the mirror and more time staring straight into your very bright future.
"Spend less time looking in the mirror and more time staring straight into your very bright future."
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Don’t underestimate the power of a healthy glow. Confidence is directly correlated to productivity.
WHEN YOU’RE REALLY ON-THE-GO, WE GOT YOU
If you’re the sort to squeeze in an AM spin class before hitting your email, or you have a tendency to go straight from the office to after work drinks, it can do a number on your skin.
Take a few moments in between dashing to wipe down the day’s dirt, impurities, and makeup with Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleansing Cloths. These ultra-soft and gentle cloths are based on the classic award-winning Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser. They're super convenient and will leave skin feeling fresh and clean in all situations-- even when you’re hustling through a 12-hour day.
We’ve all been there, we know that sometimes the hustle doesn’t sleep, but we also know you can still look good while chasing your dreams.
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Why You Need a #CreateCultivateATL Ticket
We're sharing success stories from past attendees.
We’ve always said that Create & Cultivate is unlike any other conference series and we believe it. No woman is an island and a large part of both creating and cultivating the career of your dreams is connecting with like-minded creatives.
You should take advantage of being in a room with that much creative energy and entrepreneurial spirit. Past attendees who have done just that have made moves.
As we get closer to October 15th we want to make sure you get the most out of the conference. The first step is a ticket, but the next step is all you.
WHEN WE SAY, COME TALK TO US. WE MEAN IT
These aren’t empty words. We put on the conference because it means something to us and we don’t take it lightly that you’re attending. Attendees who catch us in a down moment or come up to us to chat about what they're doing tend to stay top of mind.
Michelle Lando is a is a Certified Professional Resume Writer and founder of writestylesonline.com. She has a passion for helping others present the best version of themselves, both on paper and in person, and works to polish individual's application package and personal style. She attended Create & Cultivate DTLA and approached our editorial director to talk opportunities. She now contributes to the blog, doling out the best tips to enhance your resume, style, and boost your confidence.
We have attendees who become interns and those who now do graphic design for Create & Cultivate. Getting attendees involved beyond the day of is part of the secret to our success. You want people who are enthusiastic about your message. And we want to be able to promote you as well. It's a win-win.
CONNECT WITH YOUR OTHER ATTENDEES
We love hearing from past participants who share their success stories.
Like Melissa Urfirer who also attended Create & Cultivate DTLA this past May. Melissa is a handbag designer with a unique product. She created Riley Versa bags which have removable covers so you can easily change the look of your bag. However, Melissa told us, “the concept is hard to convey.”
But at the past DTLA Melissa met Lizz of Rantze + Raves production. “We exchanged cards. Followed up,” Melissa says, “And she created an incredible stop-motion video that explains the bag and is now the homepage of my website RileyVersa.Com.”
It’s small, but important successes like these that make a ticket a no-brainer. Connections are hard to come by, but not at Create & Cultivate.
CREATE EVERY OPPORTUNITY
It's not just for CEOs. It's for you and the person next to you. It's also why we have mentor sessions.
Kamari Guthrie was in C&C mentor extraordinaire Maxie McCoy's session and had this to say: "The mentor session at Create & Cultivate gave me the moment I'd been hoping for all day: the moment when I made deep, real connections that were bound to extend well into my professional future. By the end of the session, I found a photographer that would take my social media to the next level and an amazing friend (Maxie, of course). It's only been a few months since that session, and both of them have already collaborated with me on projects that helped make my latest PR project a major success. And, I was thrilled to be able to give them new business opportunities through my network. It was a total win/win, and I cannot wait for Atlanta where I'm now 100% sure I'll build more game-changing relationships."
So. What are you waiting for? There are only a few VIP tickets left.
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Sugar & Cloth's Ashley Rose Talks DIY, Dream Collabs, and Dedication
Sugar and cloth and everything boss.
photo credit: Sugar & Cloth
Ashley Rose of Sugar & Cloth is all about serious DIY. So much so that she got to create a Sugar & Cloth color wall in Houston (see above) that has been the site of some serious 'gramming.
One look at the website that she launched in September 2011 after leaving Marshall University where she studied Art & Design, moving to Houston and following her dreams, you'll quickly find the injection of color she's put into the blogosphere was much needed. The blogger self-admittedly takes a lot of coffee and macaroon breaks, but she's also the proof in the blog pudding that committing to an idea is sometimes the best idea of all.
We caught up with Ashley in anticipation of Create & Cultivate ATL where she'll be joining us on panel to chat all things craft, creativity, and DIY-why not.
Was there a project where you thought, this is impossible but I’m going to try! And it turned out?
Being a DIY blog, I have A LOT of these, haha! It’s a good mix of trying to reinvent the wheel but it either turns as: a literal pile of trash, pretty but much harder than I anticipated, or it turns out amazing and I even surprise myself!
What lessons have you learned from DIY’ing? That apply to life?
That you’ll win some, you’ll lose some, and everyone is going to have an opinion. What really counts is that you’re honest and true to yourself about the outcome, whatever it is.
"You’ll win some, you’ll lose some, and everyone is going to have an opinion."
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DIY is more than a craft-- it’s a choice, a frame of mind-- to do it yourself. What other parts of your life are about “doing it yourself?”
I think in general DIY is simply a frame of mind that speaks independence for whatever you’re creating, doing, or achieving.
What parts of your life do you let go of the reigns a little bit?
Outside of work decisions, I’m actually much more go with the flow, ha! When it comes to where we eat, who drives, what our weekend plans are. I’m pretty much game for whatever as long as deadlines have been met. We definitely make it a point to spend time with friends and family each week.
When you first got started you were working on your blog full time and had a full time job. What have you learned about balance and pursuing your passion?
It’s funny how working multiple jobs seems super exhausting to some people, but once you’ve done it, you learn really quickly how to process through what absolutely needs to get done first. It really helps you prioritize, because you essentially have no choice not to if you’re going to do two jobs well. In some ways I’d say I was even more productive with my time back then. It’s easy to get lost in little details when time allows.
What would you say to women in the same boat right now? Even as simple as how many hours is reasonable to put in?
My best advice is to say — Don’t sweat the small stuff. Whether that means not letting an unkind comment get to you, moving on from a failed DIY, or letting go of the struggle to get it all done before bedtime. It’s not worth spending your energy on worrying about things unnecessarily.
What’s your favorite part of working in a creative field?
Always getting to dream up the next new thing!
Do you ever run out of DIY-ideas? What happens when you’re coming up empty?
I definitely struggle in A LOT of small business areas (hello, accounting and all things taxes), but running out of ideas thankfully isn’t one of them. When I do start to feel complacent with some ideas, I try to just move on to one I am excited about to get the good juju flowing again.
When you live a Pinterest-looking lifestyle, it can be hard to keep up appearances, or have everything look curated all of the time. What are some of the BTS difficulties?
First world problems, am I right?! Ha! It’s definitely super easy for me to get burnt out on social media for that reason, or even just have the constant feeling of keeping up with the Joneses because it’s my entire job basically. I think every online personality feels that at some point, but at the end of the day I think the most important reminder is to not think more highly of yourself than you ought to.
Where do you see the blog world evolving?
It’s basically a new generation of free reality TV! Or at least I keep pretty entertained by it ;)
I don’t think the blog world has hit it’s prime yet, but it’s definitely getting quickly saturated. To keep up at this point, you really have to hustle and be a forward thinker to make it a longstanding career move instead of becoming an overnight, internet one-hit-wonder.
Dream collab?
A product line with Target or Amazon!
How important is your Instagram game? Is Snapchat part of your social strategy and how are you using it?
Instagram has become a huge part of our business. Within the last year it’s come super close to being our highest earning platform, and we’ve now started focusing a lot more on Snapchat for the sake of feeling more real. It may or may not take off like IG, but it’s a great tool for followers to see a real, everyday you without the Pinterest-esque smoke and mirrors.
What’s the messiest room in your house/What is your favorite?
Messiest is definitely my closet! My favorite would be my bedroom, I LOVE a good Saturday sleeping in.
"You know it’s a passion project when you’d be there regardless of your circumstances."
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What does Sugar & Cloth mean to you?
It’s an attainable place for everyday inspiration. And even if I won the lottery tomorrow, I’d still be making pretty things to share there. You know it’s a passion project when you’d be there regardless of your circumstances.
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Meet The Mentors: #CreateCultivateATL
As we’re gearing up for Create & Cultivate ATL this October, we’d like to introduce you to the amazing women that will part of our mentor sessions this fall.
Our mentor sessions are perfect for those of you who are looking for advice on how to manage your blog or business from some of the best female entrepreneurs in the digital space today.
If you're wondering what mentor is the best fit for you, check out of the ladies below that will be sitting down with you this October. Also, if you haven't gotten your ticket yet, what are you waiting for? Get your ticket now here.
Stay tuned as we add more mentors to our lineup too!
Nicolette Mason, Creator of NicoletteMason.com
Best for: Social Media, Blogging, Writing, Strategic Partnerships
Nicolette is a Los Angeles native who lives and works in NYC & LA . She is a freelance creative consultant, contributing editor at Marie Claire, and pens her blog nicolettemason.com, where she shares personal style snaps, travel, and the many things she loves.
Since launching her blog and graduating from Parsons School of Design, she’s contributed to dozens of publications including Marie Claire, Vogue Italia, Brooklyn Magazine, The L Magazine, Refinery29, Glamour Italy, and more, and has partnered with brands like ModCloth and Addition Elle, where she has a cocktail dress collection launching this spring, to design collections. She has also partnered with Target on the heralded launch of their plus-size brand, Ava & Viv.
Maxie McCoy, Creator of MaxieMcCoy.com
Best for: Life Coaching, Soul Searching, Career Development
An inspiration luminary, Maxie’s work is a new framework for using inspiration to create a life you’re jazzed to be living. It’s an experience that will put inspiration in your driver’s seat and shine a spotlight on your escape route from mediocrity. Her website provides weekly soul-busting writings, videos, and more inspiration than you know what to do with.
Maxie has also written for the Create & Cultivate blog and you can find her pieces here:
Professional Opinion: Maxie McCoy on Cultivating Inspiration
Professional Opinion: Maxie McCoy on When -and How-To Take a Sabbatical
Professional Opinion: How to Take a Leap of Faith in Your Career
Screw the Cue Cards: 5 Tips for Mastering a Live Audience
Don’t be a Bore: 4 Ways To Engage Your Audience in a Meaningful Wa
Jessy Fofana, Founder of LaRue PR
Best for: PR, Marketing, Social Media
Jessy Fofana is our go-to for all things PR. With her PR agency LaRue PR, she has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to utilizing PR to strategically grow brands and get them on the right radar. Not only that, she is our seasoned PR correspondent for the Create & Cultivate blog.
Jessy founded LaRue PR over seven years ago after successfully directing public relations initiatives for an impressive list of well-known fashion, lifestyle and cosmetics brands and retailers. She brings a unique perspective of understanding what every player in the PR game needs. Having worked in magazine publishing, she knows what editors are looking for, and as the co-creator of Femme Arsenal, an indie cosmetic brand, she understands what business owners need to grow to the next level. Get her advice in-person at Create & Cultivate Atlanta!
Mandy Kellogg Rye, Founder and Creative Director of Waiting On Martha
Best for: Blogging, Entrepreneurship, Creative Directing
It all started with a blog and a desire to unite all of the things Mandy loves the most in one place. From how-tos for setting the perfect table and custom crafted cocktails, to what Mandy’s wearing and the beloved “currently coveting” roundup, a glimpse of what’s on her ever-expanding want list, readers know that when they’re in need of a little inspiration, Mandy is just a click away.
Soon after the blog took off and Mandy could no longer keep up with the “where can I buy that?” requests, she decided it was high time to expand the brand. With that, the Waiting On Martha shop was born. On any given shopping day, you can find a variety of products spanning the home décor, tabletop, entertaining, paper, gift, men’s, women’s, kids and even pet categories.
Courtney Kerr, Founder of Kerrently.com and TV & Radio Personality
Best for: Blogging, Strategic Partnerships
Courtney’s life took an interesting turn when she was cast on Bravo’s 2011 docudrama, “Most Eligible Dallas,” which eventually led to a 2013 spinoff show, “Courtney Loves Dallas.” Female viewers were eager to know everything about Courtney’s wardrobe, which was her lightbulb moment to leave her longtime, successful career as a retail shopgirl and venture into the world of style blogging. For two years, Dallas woke up to her every morning on the panel of opinionated women on KTXD’s 2-hour morning show, “The Broadcast.” In 2014, CBS Radio also scooped up Courtney to co-host afternoon drive show, “UNcorked with Leigh Ann & Courtney Kerr,” which airs on their Dallas hot adult contemporary station, 103.7 KVIL. In January of 2016, “UNcorked” went nationally syndicated and began as a weekly online podcast for Play.It.
After 5 years of juggling it all & going 100mph in designer heels, Courtney recognized that it was time to elevate “What Courtney Wore” into a online magazine, appropriately named “KERRently.” In January 2016, “KERRently” was launched and it is where Courtney shares her thoughts on fashion, beauty, travel and just life in general.
You can read our Q+A with Courtney here on our blog.
Cailli & Sam Beckerman, Creators of Beckerman Blog
Best for: Blogging, Strategic Partnerships, Fashion Design, Creative Directing
Sam and Cailli Beckerman have been showcasing their fashion sense and outfits of the day since 2009. Living out the ultimate millennial dream, these twins flew to Dubai just to check out Chanel’s new collection for their blog. The twins’ bold styles revolve around bright colors, eclectic designs, and edgy ensembles. Even their ridiculously adorable Pomeranians dress to impress. From being designers to becoming bloggers, these twins have seen it all and have accumulated a following of over 163,000.
You can read our Q+A with Cailli and Sam here on our blog.
Daniela Ramirez, Creator of Nany’s Klozet
Best for: Blogging, Fashion, Strategic Partnerships
Daniela launched her fashion blog Nany’s Klozet in 2011 to be a fashion diary. Now five years later, she has gained 270,000 followers and over 43,000 YouTube subscribers in both the English speaking and Hispanophone spaces. Some of her partnerships have included Guess, Pantene, Lucky Brand and TRESemmé.
You can read our Q+A with Daniela here on our blog.
Jessi Malay, Creator of mywhiteT and Recording Artist
Best for: Blogging, Fashion, Music, Strategic Partnerships
Jessi Malay, a Los Angeles native, doesn’t just document her her daily outfit inspiration on her blog My White T, but she also has a successful music career. With over 100,000 followers on Instagram Jessi has successfully merged her love of music, fashion and beauty and turned it into a full-time career. Check our Q+A with her here.
You can read our Q+A with Jessi here on our blog.
Keiko Lynn, Creator of KeikoLynn.com and Founder of Brooklyn Brigade
Best for: Blogging, Creative Directing, Entrepreneurship, Strategic Partnerships
Since 2009, Keiko Lynn has shared her fashion, beauty, and lifestyle musings that have served as inspiration to her followers. Not only that, the Brooklyn based blogger has gone beyond the realm of being a blogger and turned into a creative entrepreneur when she founded Brooklyn Brigade creative studio with follow blogger Helena Glazer.
She is constantly creating and looking for inspiration, and shares a peek into her daily life, style, and beauty tips on keikolynn.com.
Kelly Mindell, Founder and Creative Director of Studio DIY
Best for: Entrepreneurship, Creative Directing, Strategic Partnerships
Kelly Mindell, a modern-day artisan and professional celebrator, launched her blog, Studio DIY, during her senior year of college. Her clever, colorful creations has attracted a growing audience of over 306,000 followers that has caught the attention Pocky, Tic Tac, Method Home, and Grease Live. Based in Los Angeles, Kelly pulls inspiration from the West coast culture and has been expanding Studio DIY’s scope by experimenting with fashion, travel, and drool-worthy food, like donut burgers!
Rachel Martino, Creator of RachMartino.com
Best for: Blogging, Strategic Partnerships, Fashion
Rachel Martino is a Francophone fashion and lifestyle blogger based out of Brooklyn that has been able to create an international brand right from her home, with over 384k followers. Not only that, she is 25 and just last year became a full-time blogger after leaving Esteé Lauder Brands as Origins’ Community Manager.
Now, Rachel is fully focused on creating amazing content for her blog, making strategic partnerships that make sense for her blog, and travelling “across the pond” to market to her French audience as well.
You can read our Q+A with Rachel on our blog here.
Adrianna Adarme, Creator of A Cozy Kitchen
Best for: Blogging, Book Writing, Cooking, Crafts
Atlanta-native Adrianna Adarme started her blog in 2009 as a place to celebrate pies and corgis - more specifically, her corgi Amelia. However, her blog has been a haven for countless of recipes and projects that have inspired her 230k followers online.
Following the growth of her blog and social channels, Adrianna launched her first book called The Year of Cozy which has various original recipes and projects for the perfect “cozy” home, and is getting ready to release her second cookbook, A Cozy Coloring Cookbook.
You can read our Counter Culture feature with Adrianna on our blog here.
Carrie Morey, Founder of Callie’s Charleston Biscuits & Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit
Best for: Entrepreneurship and Food
Carrie Morey became a culinary entrepreneur when she founded Callie’s in 2005 and from then on, she expanded the southern biscuit making tradition by making her brand Callie’s Charleston Biscuits accessible across the country, along with another restaurant in Atlanta’s vibrant Virginia Highlands neighborhood.Today, Callie has authored a cookbook that also includes her entrepreneurial narrative, and also is a guest lecturer at the College of Charleston School of Business, presenting the program’s Entrepreneurship Class.
Jeni Britton Bauer, Founder of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Best For: Entrepreneurship & Food
Jeni has been making ice creams professionally for two decades. Before that, she studied art, worked in a bakery, and had a serious hobby blending perfumes and collecting essential oils. Jeni founded Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams in 2002. Her ahead-of-the-trend vision—using whole ingredients and dairy from grass-pastured cows, rather than synthetic flavorings and commodity ice cream mix—coupled with inspired flavors sparked the artisan ice cream movement more than a decade before it would become a top food trend. Jeni is a James Beard Award-winning author of two cookbooks and has been recognized by Fast Company as one of the most creative people in business.
RSVP Now For The Create & Cultivate ATL Happy Hour
Never too early to start planning for a good time.
Create & Cultivate ATL is only a few months away, but that doesn’t mean that you have to wait until the last minute to get your plans ready for the big day!
Starting this week if you have a VIP ticket, you will be able to start selecting your mentors, and you can already get a head start on RSVP’ing for the Create & Cultivate ATL attendee happy hour on October 14th!
The attendee happy hour is a great way for you to network and mingle with all the attendees that will be joining you at our conference the day before, and can also be a way for you to start setting your wolfpack for the big day so you’re not alone!
RSVP below for our happy hour and we will send you full details come closer to October 16th!
We can’t wait to see you all this fall, and get ready to have the best time at Create & Cultivate ATL!
DETAILS:
Lenox Square, Neiman Marcus Wing
3393 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30326
6PM - 7:30PM
Beer, wine, and light snacks will be provided
Please be sure to bring your conference badge or order number/confirmation number from your Create & Cultivate ATL ticket purchase to confirm your entry into the happy hour!
RSVP CLOSED
Why Philanthropy Will Always Be at the Core of the Kendra Scott Brand
Setting an example that other companies are eager to follow.
As the woman behind Kendra Scott’s creative strategy, Katie Marston dedicates her work to building Kendra and her brand’s strength on an international scale through the reinforcement of Kendra Scott’s founding pillars: Family, Fashion and Philanthropy. Her main goals? To connect on a genuine, personal level with the consumer through fashion and always find a way to make a positive difference.
Kendra Scott founded her company in 2002 with only $500 and just after the birth of her first son. Seeing herself as a mom first, she was driven to create a work culture unlike any others in the industry. To Kendra, it was just as important to tuck her kids into bed at night as it was to become a leader in the business world. And she made it her priority to hire individuals with those same family values, making the “Family First” mindset a crucial part of the Kendra Scott work culture. Kendra Scott’s three core pillars built a strong foundation that has led the company to incredible growth and success, and set an example that other companies are eager to follow.
But for Marston, another priority has become just as essential to the company’s future: Telling the story of Kendra herself. Many brands’ founders fade into the background and let the business become the focus. But Kendra, as lead designer, founder and CEO of Kendra Scott, LLC, remains at the heart of every aspect of her company’s growth. From the design of a new collection and visits to her growing number of stores, to philanthropic partnerships on local and national levels, the Kendra Scott brand continues to be the actualization of Kendra’s personal vision.
Kendra Scott began designing jewelry in the spare bedroom in her Austin home. She was inspired to craft the jewelry she wanted to wear, jewelry that she says “filled the void between high-end brands and pieces that would fall apart after a few wears.” She walked, with her baby on her hip, selling her jewelry door to door to the local boutiques in Austin. When she sold out of her first collection in her first day, she knew she was onto something special. “Although to this day I don’t know if it’s because they really liked my jewelry, or they just felt sorry for me!” Kendra jokes. Kendra Scott has made a name for herself in the fashion industry through her impactful designs, which evolve alongside the world of fashion and provide customers with high value product at an accessible price.
Kendra’s desire to give back is in her bones. When she was 19, Scott began a company called Hat Box. Inspired by her stepfather’s own battle with cancer, the store was focused on using the proceeds to raise money for cancer research. That philanthropic business focus followed her into her next venture, Kendra Scott jewelry, and has become a genuine and differentiating factor for the company. Kendra Scott lives by the belief that there is always something to give, and is driven to “do good” and make a positive difference in the world through her business.
"Kendra Scott lives by the belief that there is always something to give, and is driven to 'do good.'”
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It was that unique approach to business that first caught Katie Marston’s attention when she joined the company nearly two years ago. “Philanthropy was not merely an add-on. They weren’t following a corporate giving model,” Marston said. “Giving back was the heart of the Kendra Scott brand, bringing life and loyalty to the business in a way no other brand could match. And I knew I had to be a part of it.”
As Kendra Scott’s VP of Marketing, Marston has identified a few key points to consider when developing your company’s giving initiatives. First, and most important, is a genuine passion for giving back. For Kendra, that passion came from her stepfather Rob, who spoke the message “You Do Good” to her during his battle with brain cancer.
“Because of Rob,” says Scott, “I was inspired to create a business that did something more, that gave back to the community in real, meaningful ways.” It’s this incredible dedication to philanthropy that has become a hallmark of the Kendra Scott culture. “‘You do good’ aren’t just words; it’s a motto I carry into all choices throughout my business.”
“I was inspired to create a business that did something more, that gave back to the community in real, meaningful ways.”
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Katie Marston echoes Kendra’s passion for philanthropy, and explains how this key part of their business has strengthened the company in a powerful way. “A philanthropic element to business can inspire fierce customer loyalty, but it has to be authentic,” Marston explains. “People want to support companies that care about what they care about. That’s why we value the grassroots connection so highly.”
This hits on another mantra of the Kendra Scott company: “What Matters to You Matters to Us.” Whether it’s donating jewelry to a silent auction at a local school, hosting fundraising events in our store for a neighbor in need, or participating in a walk for a local organization, Kendra Scott believes there is always something to give. “We genuinely care for our customers and the causes they care about,” Marston says. “As a company, we believe that giving back in our communities is the greatest way to make a difference.”
"As a company, we believe that giving back in our communities is the greatest way to make a difference.”
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With the opening of every new Kendra Scott store, there is a team dedicated to getting involved with the community on the ground level, researching and figuring out how to get involved with local organizations. Scott admits, “It’s certainly not the easiest business model to follow, but philanthropy has become an integral part of who we are. And the relationships we have built with our customers as a result are truly invaluable.”
Today, Kendra Scott partners with thousands of philanthropic organizations nationwide through her Kendra Gives Back program, which just last year gave back $1.4 million and donated over 50,000 pieces of jewelry. On a national scale, Kendra Scott supports The Seton Breast Cancer Care Center, MD Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital, and the National Down Syndrome Congress.
To learn more be sure to check out Katie Marston on panel when she joins us at #CreateCultivateATL.
Damsel in Dior Shares Her Secret to Success
From journalist to blogger, she's sticking with the latter.
Photo credit: Frankie Marin via Damsel in Dior
Jacey Duprie is a journalist turned blogger who started Damsel in Dior in 2009. Two years later she turned the creative project into a full time job. The name is not "a misnomer" as her site explains, but rather "symbolic of a lifestyle --to never feel like a damsel in distress."
With a B.A. in Communications {Journalism} with a minor in Professional Writing from DePaul University, Chicago, her background gives her a certain edge over other bloggers. Creating interesting and engaging content is a skill and hers has attracted the attention of brands like Saks, GAP/Old Navy, and Levis. She's also contributed to Vanity Fair and Forbes among other publications.
We caught up with Jacey ahead of #CreateCultivateATL where she'll be joining us panel. Read through to learn about her transition from journalism to blogging, finding her true calling, and the very simple place she finds the secret to success.
How was your transition of growing up next to cotton fields in Texas and then transitioning to the city as a journalist?
Outside of the heartbreaking homesickness for my family, the transition was a seamless one. Because I have always kept a journal and have considered myself an aspiring writer early on in my life, moving to Chicago just after high school came easy. Yes, there were times when the city annoyed me. The honking horns and fast paced lifestyle were much different than life on the farm. However, it wasn’t a big transition for me because I was simply moving to a city that suited my personality and career path more than living in Taft, Texas.
You have mentioned that at one point, you felt lost while exploring your personalities. How did you find clarity in who you wanted to be?
I find that it is very obvious when you discover what it is that you are meant to do in life. Prior to discovering my true love for writing and working on Damsel in Dior, I didn’t see the writing on the wall. The clarity came when I realized and accepted that this was something I wanted to wake up and do each and every day. My dad always told me to find a career that made me want to get out of bed feeling happy every day. This is that thing for me. I believe that I found clarity when I was excited to jump out of the bed day after day to rush to my laptop and get to work.
Your resume has the likes of NBC, WGN, and E! News, which is pretty impressive. What is your advice to girls that want to follow the journalistic route?
First, I would ask them to take a close look at why they want to become a journalist. Writing for NBC or WGN is no cake-walk. You’ll need to study journalism in college and hit the internships early and hard. I had so many internships in college that I stopped receiving credit for them, but I worked for free because I was so eager to learn. It was actually due to these experiences that I realized I did not want to be a traditional journalist, but a writer and creator. Just because you start walking down one path doesn’t mean you will not end on another, but that is what is fun about exploring careers.
"Just because you start walking down one path doesn’t mean you will not end on another."
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Photo credit: Frankie Marin via Damsel in Dior
Everyone is always given a sugarcoated piece of advice for their career. What is one piece of career advice that you wish you had gotten that you ended up learning the hard way?
Say “No.” Also, the secret of success is found in your daily routine.
What things did you learn in the world of journalism that you have applied to your business with Damsel in Dior (both with skillets and business strategies)?
In my college courses, journalism ethics and standards were heavily enforced. This is a code of integrity that Damsel in Dior has adopted. Damsel in Dior does not accepts products of sponsored posts from companies that would not otherwise post about and all of my opinions are my own. Also, I learned to always proof read an e-mail before sending it and to never underestimate the power of picking up the phone and making a cold call.
"The secret of success is found in your daily routine."
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Do you think the blogging world will remain more lucrative than journalism?
The unfortunate reality of the journalism industry is that the sources are having a harder and harder time holding readers’ attention. Journalism and blogging are both supported by advertising and advertising dollars go where the readers are, which are blogs and social feeds. I think this will remain true because people want reliable and easy information quickly which is what blogs offer.
What makes you stick with it?
It works.
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