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Business Advisor Elizabeth Gordon interviews Julie Sue Auslander of cSubs, Lindsey Peddar of Beauty Ticket, and Jacqueline Edelberg of How to Walk to School on the Chic Perspectives Show

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This week on the Chic Perspectives Show I had on Julie Sue Auslander  President, Chief Cultural Officer of cSubs, LLC (CSMS), Lindsey Peddar founder of Beauty Ticket and BeautyTicket.com and  Jacqueline Edelberg Author of How to Walk to School

First in line was Jacqueline Edelberg who wrote the book, How to Walk to School: Blueprint for a Neighborhood School Renaissance (Foreword by Arne Duncan and Afterword by Rahm Emanuel).

Jacqueline has been the driving force behind the Nettelhorst School’s dramatic turn around, a story that has been featured on Oprah and Friends, NPR, CNN, 60 Minutes, Education Weekly, and in the local Chicago media.

A community organizer, writer, and nationally recognized fine artist, Jacqueline has led workshops for the Community Schools Initiative, Northside Parents Network, and Chicago Public Schools on how public schools and reformers can improve public education.


Her influential book has a very simple message: Every kid, in every community, deserves a great neighborhood public school. Jacqueline led eight moms in a Chicago diner to make our dreams come true. They succeeded because they treated the school like a business start-up.


The Library journal had this to say about the book and the blueprint it lays out.:

“This is a fascinating account of the collaboration between a public school principal, Kurland, the parents of young children considering her elementary school, and the community that transformed a failing public school into an outstanding and revitalized one. In the face of disastrous, widespread public school system failures across America, parent dissatisfaction, and teacher despair, the Chicago-based Nettlehorst School’s success story is a beacon. Edelberg, one of the Nettlehorst parents, and Kurland offer educators hope that change can happen in any public school, given the right mix of parent-teacher patience, willpower, community involvement, pluck, creativity, collaboration, and ability to overcome adversity. They provide a blueprint that schools can use for revitalization projects, detailing, for instance, how to procure donations from area businesses and to ask questions that will get answers about difficult educational problems such as coping with dysfunctional and unsatisfactory teaching. VERDICT: This book is essential reading for all elementary school parents and teachers, especially those who have lost their faith in the American public school system and are looking for ways to improve it. Here are solutions and inspiration.”

You can take a virtual tour to see the transformation @ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPZr6BYJSGc

Jacqueline shared her about when she and a friend ventured inside Nettelhorst, their neighborhood’s underutilized and struggling public elementary school, the new principal asked what it would take for us to enroll our children.

Stunned by her candor, we returned the next day armed with an extensive wish list. The principal read our list and said “Well, let’s get started, girls! It’s going to be a busy year…”

They were eight park moms who galvanized neighborhood parents and then organized an entire community to take a leap of faith, transforming a challenged urban school into one of Chicago’s best, virtually overnight.

If eight park moms could pull their little neighborhood school out of its twenty-five year nose-dive, surely other driven parents could do the same thing.

Jacqueline’s work is sparking the possibilities for a national grassroots school reform movement that would pull us all out of the giant mess we’re in, now wouldn’t that be something?

Check out the whole story at www.howtowalktoschool.com
or listen to NPR’s Chicago Matters piece:
http://www.chicagopublicradio.org/Content.aspx?audioID=2055
or her other NPR interview:
http://kcurstream.umkc.edu/walt/WALT_1-13-2010.mp3

and “Never doubt that a group of small thoughtful citizens can change the world.  Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”–Margaret Mead

Next up on the Chic Perspectives Show was Emerging Entrepreneur Lindsay Pedder, CEO BeautyTicket.com

Laid-off from an executive position at a premium skin care company (and seven months pregnant), Lindsay used her new found time, beauty background and business school education to start BeautyTicket.com a discount site for Premium Beauty Brands.  BeautyTicket.com  just celebrated its first anniversary and is projecting aggressive growth for year two.

Lindsay talked about

While not quite as risky as being an entrepreneur, being an employee is risky too

Network, network, network

A good business plan is key to understanding what you are trying to do

Follow the business plan but allow for flexibility

Know how you are going to make money

Understanding the market, the customer and the space is key to being competitive

It was harder to start without investors but worthwhile in the long run

If you have a partner make sure it is the right one

The family work life balance is more intense as an entrepreneur but far more rewarding

www.BeautyTicket.com

Twitter @beauty_ticket

And finally was Julie Sue Auslander is an established women business owner, bordering on Expert, (25 years of success) in the Professional Services arena.

Julie Sue Auslander is President and Chief Cultural Officer of cSubs, LLC (CSMS), where she guides Inc. Magazine’s 5000 to reduce their spends 15-20% on publications, memberships, site licenses and online services.

Julie spoke with a unique perspective and wit on innovation, leadership, targeting a market, building a customer base; customer loyalty, systematizing processes; the emotions of hiring and firing, taking risks, overcoming fear, and the personal growth that comes with business growth.

Julie has created an employee/client centric eco-system, through an internal culture that fosters total team engagement, believing if given what they need to succeed, her team would channel their own efforts toward a high quality customer experience.

Formerly, Julie Auslander presided over her prior company’s liquidity event to a public company, overseeing a $14 million budget. She sits on the Advisory Board of the Center for Women and 50 Top Women owned Business in New Jersey.

Julie is an expert blogger on FASTCOMPANY (www.fastcompany.com/blog/julie-auslander/company-you-keep). She earned her MA and M.Ed from Columbia University and most recently, was awarded a scholarship to the 2008 tuck-WBENC Executive Program at Dartmouth College.

Julie talked about what makes her company unique: As a woman-owned company, we have found many innovative ways to support the needs of families and honor the individual as we continually inspire growth in our business by serving our clients. Regardless of the challenges experienced in the difficult situations encountered in business life, we actively manage our thoughts, feelings and actions to attract what we want and what our clients need.

At cSubs, we continually recreate our business from an intention of serving. Our strategies used in sales and marketing feel right because we under promise and over deliver. Wanting more from life, working less, finding deep satisfaction, making more money and having fun while accomplishing our goals is our way of life.

All of us at cSubs are rewarded for listening to our inner voice and feeling you’re part of something bigger than yourself. This notion of having a business serve its employees and its customers with ethics that live in our actions not on our mission statement, has become the foundation of my company’s mission and the reason for its success.

Julie Sue Auslander, M.ED, WPO, WBEPRESIDENT / CHIEF CULTURAL OFFICER of CSUBS | Subscriptions Simplified
jsauslander@csubs.com_ www.csubs.com Visit Julie’s blog: http://csubs.com/blogs/jsa
A Service of CSMS, LLCA Nationally Certified Women’s Business Enterprise

Thanks everyone for listening and thank you again to my fabulous Chic Entrepreneur guests.

Remember – Heel to Heel We Rise.

Tune in again next week for more Chic Perspectives on women succeeding with style.

Elizabeth


Business Advisor Elizabeth Gordon interviews Gail Dunn of Women’s Automotive Connection and Anne Fleming of Women-Drivers.com on the Chic Perspectives Show

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This week on the Chic Perspectives Show I had on Gail Dunn, President of Women’s Automotive Connection, Inc  www.womensautomotiveconnection.com and Anne Fleming of Women-Drivers.com.

To start with Gail Dunn brought her extensive and varied business background and unique perspective to the Chic Show today.  Gail worked as a Consultant in Organization Development before entering the automotive field in the collision industry. As estimator and body shop manager, Gail has had opportunities to interact with the public extensively regarding their problems with repairs. She is dedicated to the premise that customer service needs to be brought back and the needs of the customers must come first. Gail is I-CAR platinum certified, ASI trained, and has a reputation in the industry for her scrupulous honesty and grim determination.

Gail talked about why she began focusing services on women (even though many of her clients are men).  Women have long been treated with disdain when entering the arena of automotive service, sales and related repairs. Gail intends to reverse that process and elevate the women to the level of astute, competent customers, who will be a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

Her company Women’s Automotive Connection gives the customer the recognition and care they deserve.

She helps consumers buy a car and avoid the nerve-wracking hassle that many assume is inevitable in the car buying process.

Gail talked about doing your research. Starting with exactly what you want to purchase. Gathering the information on the cost. Her company can get dealerships fighting over you to sell the car at the lowest price. She can tell you about holdbacks, rebates, and dealer costs that will save you money.

Gail’s Women’s Automotive Connection offers great tips on car maintenance too.  Definately check out the free newsletter as well to up your car savvy – a must for any empowered chic woman.

Did you know how important correct tire pressure is in aiding increased gas mileage?
Or that tires and brakes are your first line of defense ? Or the number one factor in engine performance ?  Gail talked today about how to maintain and get the most out of your car.
» Email Gail to retain her services in buying your next car.

Watch Gail’s video:  http://www.ecstreams.com/omegamedia/wma/wac_02_wmv.asx

Also Check Out ThriveAmerica:  http://thriveamerica.com/video/dunn-right

My next guest was Anne Fleming, Car Buying Advocate & President, Women-Drivers.com

Anne Fleming, Car Buying Advocate & President of Women-Drivers.com®, once struggled with negotiating at a car dealership. Now, she has vast knowledge in this area and shares her insights on negotiating and creating the best dealership experience possible.

Anne’s goal is to empower women to take charge of their automotive experience and have it be rewarding each and every visit. Appearing in the Wall Street Journal, ABC News, USA Today, Anne has effectively used social networking to elevate her company to the national spotlight.

Anne talked abut what can women do to empower themselves at the dealership.  Her site www.women-drivers.com allows women to share their voice—write a review and share with family and friends

Listen to learn how you can be empowered at the car dealership.

Make  a contribution to other future women car buyers of your city and write a review.

Anne talked about how to determine what kind of negotiator you are.  Take her Interactive Negotiating Test and find out if you are a Driven Diva, Brazen Babe, Cozy Chic or Virtual Vixen?

Read HER & HIS Car reviews—from two Points of view.

Anne talked about what women experience buying cars and the findings of a new report that compares the car buying experiences of Women over 40 to under 40.  The report reflects the Women Satisfaction Index® scores, or WSI® as well as other data found in the reviews of women’s experiences.

The consumer rating company found that the experience of purchasing a vehicle was less satisfactory for women under 40 than for women over 40. The top line data suggests that women over 40 are more confident, relaxed and expressed when buying a car than their younger counterpart.

Her company research the rating data provide insights and trends regarding the purchase experience at car dealerships.

What the report concludes is that regardless of age, ethnicity or marital status, women want to be treated with respect, spoken to truthfully, and to feel included in the process.

More importantly Anne says women want to feel confident about their ability to make good decisions, in a process that may or may not be familiar to them.

www.women-drivers.com

Friend and follow anne and women drivers on Twitter.com @womendrivers, FaceBook women-drivers.com

Thanks to my fabulous guests and our loyal fans and listeners for following, friending and tuning in.  Talk to you next week.

Chic Success,

Elizabeth

Business Advisor Elizabeth Gordon interviews Mollye Rhea, President of For Momentum, Lori Rosen President of The Rosen Group and Managing Partner of Blacksock

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Elizabeth & Mollye

Thanks for tuning in to the Chic Perspectives Show today on Business Radio X where we hear the success stories of women business owners, industry trends and innovative ideas – and help other women business owners put themselves in ‘higher heels’ and ‘succeed in style’- their own personal style.

My first guest joined me in the studio – Mollye Rhea, President and Founder of For Momentum, www.formomentum.com,  in addition to being a successful entrepreneur Mollye is also an expert in the area of cause marketing.

For 25+ years, Mollye Rhea, President of For Momentum, has conceptualized, developed and spearheaded programs for cause and partnership marketing to benefit non-profits and corporations at both national and local levels.

When Mollye Rhea founded her company, For Momentum, in May 2003, she realized that there were very few agencies specializing in cause marketing. Since then, For Momentum has grown to become one of the leading cause marketing firms in the country.

Mollye talked about how she got started in her business by leveraging her broad base of experience  working in advertising, corporate marketing, and nonprofit marketing.

This background created the right synergy for the For Momentum business model.

Mollye talked about how she created For Momentum to strike a better balance with her lifestyle wishes and values.

She selected cause marketing because it is her passion.

For Momentum serves three specific target audiences:

  • Nonprofits who desire to expand their resource base through corporate partnership.
  • Corporations who want to leverage their philanthropic support for expanding their business -- also known as strategic philanthropy,
  • Traditional marketing, advertising and pr agencies who want to round out their full service services with a cause marketing offering.
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    Mollye talked about what cause marketing is, why it works and how companies do it. 
    

     
    

    CSR are an important part of today’s business model. 
    

     
    

    She talked about how businesses of all sizes are leveraging the power of cause marketing to generate sales, positive PR and community reputation, employee loyalty and affordable solutions are possible — you don’t have to be a huge corporation to make a difference. 
    

     
    

    As entrepreneurs, Mollye said we have the opportunity to establish a business model that matches our lifestyle and life stage needs.
    

     
    

    Her advice to other female business owners — Develop systems that match your business and budgetary needs
    

      

    1. 

        

      • project-based compensation models
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      • telecommuting business model
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      • employee-specific definition of “full time”
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      You also won’t want to miss Mollye’s “Chic Tip”: As entrepreneurs, we have the opportunity to establish a business model that matches our lifestyle and life stage needs. Don’t let the “conventional models” limit your thinking.  If you have a will, you can make your own way.
      

       
      

      Go to www.formomentum.com and sign up for our Cause Alliances Insights e-publication — found on our website under “News You Can Use”
      

       
      

       
      

      My next guest was Lori Rosen who called into the Chic Perspectives Show from the Big Apple to share her entrepreneurial experiences with us.  Lori is the owner of a public relations firm in New York, The Rosen Group http://www.rosengrouppr.com which celebrated its 25th anniversary in November 2009. 
      

       
      

      Last year, Lori solicited a company in Switzerland, and became Managing Partner of Blacksocks (www.blacksocks.com) NA, a web site that delivers socks by subscription. It’s aimed at busy men, who want the luxury of having socks delivered to them (rather than going to a store) –just when the one sock disappears. Blacksocks is a thriving business in Europe, with 40,000 active customers. 
      

       
      

      Lori talked about operating her PR agency, managing the ebbs and flows in the economic cycles, and how her company has evolved over time.  She also got into wha it was like starting a new business with its own set of challenges in a down market. 
      

      

      

      Blacksocks is run out of the agency-and most of the marketing is done through PR, in addition to google ad word and SEO.  It was interesting to hear Lori talk about how from a PR perspective what’s it like to be both the client and the agency and for the first time, have a very clear understanding from the client’s point of view. 
      

      

      Lori talked about both businesses-owning and operating aspects of a PR agency; and 
      

      what she’s learning from customers about the sock-scription business model, need vs. want, purchasing timing and creating urgency. 
      

      

      Thanks to my wonderful guests for sharing their stories and advice with our ever growing listen base. 
      

      

      Tune in next time for more chic business talk. 
      

      

      Until then… wishing you all Chic Success, 
      


      
Elizabeth 
      
 
		
      
		 
	
      
	 

	
	

      
	
      
		
      Business Advisor Elizabeth Gordon interviews Amber O’Neal, Owner, Café Physique Fitness & Nutrition & Jacqui Rosshandler founder of Jacquean Products & creator of Eat Whatever on the Chic Perspectives Show
      

		 
		
      
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      Elizabeth Gordon & Amber O'Neal
      Elizabeth Gordon & Amber O'Neal
      

      

      My first guest in the studio with me was Amber O’Neal.  Amber is a certified personal trainer & nutrition expert, and the owner of Café Physique, an Atlanta-based fitness & nutrition business. Café Physique specializes in mobile personal training, yoga, pilates and nutrition programs designed to meet the healthy lifestyle needs of clients in the privacy and convenience of their homes. With over 8 years of experience, Amber is well-respected by her peers in the health and wellness community. 
      

      

      In addition to speaking to audiences across the nation, she is a freelance fitness and nutrition writer and media expert who has been featured in numerous publications including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Marie Claire, and Heart & Soul. Her television appearances include CBS, NBC and FOX affiliates as well as the NBC Nightly News.
      


      

      

      Amber talked about how she started Café Physique, why she decided to pursue a mobile service model and what the benefits have been and what they do.
      


      

      

       
      

      She also talked about  the biggest challenge with the model and well as her biggest challenge as an entrepreneur.
      


      

      

       
      

      Amber recently launched AmberONeal.com as a personal branding website that promotes her speaking, writing, and one-on-one weight loss coaching services.  She talked about what led her to that decision to separate her personal brand from the main business.
      


      

      

       
      

      Café Physique – Who we are and what we do Amber shared tips and success secrets for what she calls “Side-launching” and talked about how to do so with success.  She encourages would be entrepreneurs to build a business on the side before leaving the steady income of their day jobs.
      

       
      

      She also talked about the necessity of changing your personal lifestyle in order to survive of lower salary when launching a business, the benefits of running a mobile business (bringing the services to the client) – and how to make this challenge to opportunity leap of thinking. 
      

       
      

      We also discussed Who you are vs. What you do:  When it is better to separate or combine business and personal brands…and how to create a personality (personal branding) apart from your company. 
      

       
      

      Find out more about Amber O’Neal and
      

      www.CafePhysique.com and www.AmberONeal.com 
      

       
      

      Twitter: CafePhysique
      

      Twitter: Amber_ONeal
      

      Facebook Fanpage: Café Physique
      

       
      

      My next fabulous guest was Jacqui Rosshandler, owner of Jacquean Products, LLC
      

      and creator of Eat Whatever www.eat-whatever.com
      

       
      

      Jacqui talked about her product, how she came up with the idea and how she went from concept to actual product.  She talked about the science behind how it works and why and how she recognized this unique niche in the marketplace. 
      

       
      

      Jacqui talked about how she has marketed Eat Whatever, and how she’s been able to land some pretty great media coverage. 
      

       
      

      We talked about where Eat Whatever is currently available www.eat-whatever.com
      

      and what’s next. 
      

       
      

      Jacqui revealed what the biggest challenge has been and her biggest surprise about being a business owner as well as her own personal growth in the process of building her company. 
      

       
      

      After 2 years in a business up against multi-national companies she has learned what works, what doesn’t and how to maintain your motivation (and sanity) working for yourself in a market you have little experience in.  Check out Eat Whatever @ www.eat-whatever.com 
      

       
      

       
      

      You can also find Jacqui here at – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nu6xWvpFzSY
      

       
      

      Thanks so much to my awesome guests for sharing your inspiring stories. 
      

       
      

      Until next time… wishing you all Chic Success, 
      

      Elizabeth 
      
 
		
      
		 
	
      
	 

	
	

      
	
      
		
      Elizabeth Gordon interviews emerging entrepreneurs Judi Gerhardt, Owner of Career Fashion Consignment and Karen Robinovitz, who just launched the new beauty brand Purple Lab
      

		 
		
      
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      CIMG3087Today on the Chic Perspectives Show we shined the chic spotlight on 2 women entrepreneurs with inspirational stories of success.  They triumphed over obstacles, remained resilient in the face of fear and disaster and building thriving businesses with powerful value propositions. 
      

       
      

      First up was Judi Gerhardt, Owner of Career Fashion Consignment and an expert on professional image and non-verbal communication
      

       
      

      Judi Gerhardt is a former political powerhouse, survivor of 2 hurricanes, a nasty divorce, chemo, & a spinal tumor. After her surgery and deciding that she’d had enough hurricanes, she moved back to Atlanta. In August of 2009, Judi launched Career Fashion Consignment. CFC is an extremely high end career clothing consignment store for men and women in Atlanta. Judi is committed to social & financial responsibility and helping Atlanta’s business community benefit from the retail excess of the last decade.
      

       
      

      Judi Gerhardt is an incredible woman who was one of Maynard Jacksons campaign managers for mayor. She served as a political consultant for years in both Atlanta & DC until her travels took her elsewhere. She ended up in New Orleans where she owned a large equestrian farm for 16 years until Hurricane Katrina came in and destroyed everything she had built, including her 20 year marriage. Determined to stay in New Orleans and help rebuild, she was set to open another business when Hurricane Gustav came in and blew away that business, too. And, in the middle of all of this, her doctors discovered a tumor on her spinal column.
      

       
      

      After her surgery and deciding that shed had enough hurricanes, she moved back to Atlanta. In August of 2009, Judi launched Career Fashion Consignment. CFC is an extremely high end career clothing consignment store for men and women in Atlanta. Judi is committed to social & financial responsibility and helping Atlantas business community benefit from the retail excess of the last decade.
      

      Judi talked about what got her started in this business, what the company does and who their customers are.  Her business model actually serves two populations – those who bring in clothes for consignment sale and those who buy them. 
      

       
      

      We talked about how she came up with the idea to start Career Fashion Consignment (CFC)
      

      Judi talked about some of the road blocks she has faced in her career and how she overcame them.
      

      With such an interesting career with many twists and turns, Judi explained how she has been able to reinvent herself so many times. 
      

      We also discussed the green elements of her business. 
      

      Judi recommends women: 
      

        

      •  Shop Responsibly by Shopping Consignment
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      •  Pay attention to the impact of non-verbal communication & professional dress
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      •  Use consignment to get a return on your fashion investment   – I just love this way of looking at it
        • 

      •   Understand the importance of social responsibility and the role consignment plays
        • 

      

       
      

       
      

      For more check out the website @ www.CareerFashionConsignment.com 
      

       
      

      Become a friend of Career Fashion Consignment @ http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Atlanta-GA/Career-Fashion-Consignment/253100746996?ref=ts
      

      And follow on Twitter @  http://twitter.com/jrgerhardt
      

       
      

       
      

      Judi’s story is an amazing example of how resilient people can be, not to mention the art of reinvention and the business of social responsibility.Shes truly persistent, resilient, and the queen of reinvention. Judi is firmly committed to taking personal responsibility for her life and her happiness. She is truly an inspiration and a great example of someone who bounced back! Additionally, her commitment to helping Atlanta’s business community be more socially and financially conscious is a great story for the times we are living in.
      

       
      

      Thanks also to Judi’s PR rep – Andrea Rizk, Founder & CEO of Rizk Public Relations
      

      andrea@rizkpr.com Twitter: @andreahrizk
      

       
      

       
      

      Next up – another chic entrepreneur – Karen Robinovitz, Creatrix of Purple Lab Beauty. 
      

       
      

      Check out this awesome new beauty brand and start enjoying its multiple benefits @: www.purplelabnyc.com
      

      www.thefacebook.com/purplelab
      

      www.twitter.com/purplelabnyc 
      

      www.youtube.com/purplelabnyc
      

       
      

      purple labKaren Robinovitz is an acclaimed fashion/beauty insider/journalist/author/media vet turned marketer turned creatrix of the new beauty brand Purple Lab where she merges insider tips and tricks with ground-breaking ingredients, cutting-edge delivery systems and trend-setting style.
      

       
      

      Karen launched a beauty brand Purple Lab, www.purplelabnyc.com in small, high end boutiques last May. The company have recently expanded the brand and launched on Home Shopping Network with five new products. Karen called in from New York City to share her story of success – She talked about how all of the stages of her career (journalist, marketing consult, brand and social media strategist) and using her chic network prepared her to build a successful line that fills a high value niche in the marketplace.  She talked about knowing her customer base, doing market research, taking risks, overcoming fear, and the personal growth that comes with business growth. 
      

       
      

       
      

      Karen talked about how she discovered Purple Lab and how do they market the products. Karen explained what makes Purple Lab different than other beauty brands out there and what it was like to launch on HSN.  She also shared how to successfully market a brand via social media, why Purple Lab is changing the way people think about beauty  and how to launch a business during a rough economy. 
      

       
      

      

      Find our more about Purple Lab @ www.purplelabnyc.com
      

      Follow Purple Lab on Twitter
      

      Follow Purple Lab on Facebook
      

      Find the products & on HSN
      

      

      You don’t want to miss the Chic Tips either of these amazing women had to share.  Thanks so much for listening and thanks to my wonderful guests. 
      

      

      Until next time wishing you all Chic Success, 
      

      

      Elizabeth 
      
 
		
      
		 
	
      
	 

	
	

      
	
      
		
      Elizabeth Gordon interviews Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) – on the Chic Perspectives Show – Samantha Lueder of Ant Hill Communications, Carolyn Saffold Wilson of Womble Carlyle and Tonya Creekmore, Vice President  of General Growth Properties
      

		 
		
      
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      It was my pleasure this week to have on 3 fabulous businesswomen from CREW Atlanta, Commercial Real Estate Women. 
      

       
      

      First up was Samantha Lueder of Ant Hill Communications. For more than fourteen years, Sam Lueder has been managing consumers’ perceptions of brands through integrated marketing and Public Relations programs. 
      

      With a supportive and collegiate management style, Sam’s strength lies in being able to work and secure substantial results for brands within both the corporate atmosphere, some of the worlds best-known agencies and now with her own boutique agency – Ant Hill Communications. 
      

      Her love of the actual work of Public Relations and marketing drove her to start her own company, Ant Hill, in 2009, with a corporate mandate of providing big brand experience, ideas and contacts to small, entrepreneurial companies looking to do some good and to make a difference.   In this vein, Ant Hill aims to partner with new companies and people, who are excited about their brands and willing to make loyalists out of their supporters and brand ambassadors out of their customers – the sweet spot of all that Ant Hill can achieve.
      

      Sam started her career and secured the fundamental knowledge of Public Relations with Hill & Knowlton in London. Past credits include Corporate Communications Manager for Philips Consumer Electronics, and Marketing Manager for Song, Delta Airlines low-cost, high style airline.  She’s done marketing and PR worked with clients including Motorola, Cheerwine, Applebee’s restaurants, Earthlink and Mansfield Plumbing, Publix and Sports Authority. 
      

      Sam talked about what CREW is doing in terms of programing and events and why she was attracted to the organization, as well as her unique perspective on why an organization for women in commercial real estate is so necessary. 
      

       
      

       
      

      Next up was Carolyn Saffold Wilson of Womble Carlyle 
      

       
      

      Carolyn Wilson advises banks, companies and individual clients on commercial finance transactions and real estate matters.  She specializes in commercial loan workouts, evaluation and enforcement of lender’s rights and repayment/recovery efforts to maximize the client’s return. Her practice includes resolution of problematic unsecured loans, as well as loans secured by business assets, special purpose buildings, offices, shopping centers, condominium and other multifamily complexes, residential developments and industrial projects. She also has experience in identifying and solving title issues that might adversely affect the value and marketability of real property collateral.
      

       
      

      Carolyn is a a CREW past president and has been active for many years as an officer, board member, legal counsel and speaker for the Atlanta Chapter of Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Network, a national organization of executive women in the commercial real estate industry. She is a recipient of the CREW Distinguished Achievement Award and has been named to Atlanta Magazine’s 2008 and 2009 Georgia Super Lawyer lists.
      

       
      

      Carolyn is a magna cum laude graduate of  Duke University and Washington & Lee University School of Law. 
      

       
      

      Carolyn talked about what a impact CREW has made on her career and her advice for other businesswomen. 
      

       
      

      Tonya Creekmore, Vice President  of General Growth Properties was my next guest.   Two years ago Creekmore joined General Growth Properties as Vice President responsible for securing catalyst anchor retailers for re-development of regional malls throughout the Southeast. Prior to joining General Growth Properties, Creekmore was Partner at North American Properties where she was responsible for development and retailer relations throughout the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. Creekmore spent ten years as a Senior Leasing Representative at Ben Carter Properties before North American Properties.
      

      She currently serves on the Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Network national board representing over 8,000 commercial real estate professionals and has consistently volunteered for International Council of Shopping Centers nationally and locally.
      


      
Tonya’s career includes an impressive list of awards, professional affiliations and accomplishments, including being a 40 Under 40 Atlanta Business Chronicle 2007 Up and Comers in Atlanta and Commercial Real Estate Women – Atlanta (CREW):  Past President 2006 (the year Atlanta hosted the National CREW Convention).  She was the CREW Representative on Atlanta Women’s Foundation’s Grant Making Committee, an active member and Co-Chair of yjr International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) 2004 Southeast Conference and Chair 2005 Southeast Conference (approximately 4,000 attendees). Tonya is also a CREW Network National Board Member. 
      

       
      

      Tonya has spoken at a variety of conferences and CREW events talking about Re-Development Trends and Opportunities, Retail Development in Atlanta,  Growth in North Seminole County and has also a frequent panelist at CREW meetings over the years. 
      

      

      Tonya talked about her experiences with CREW and the substantial impact the organization has had on her professional development and network. 
      

       
      

      It was such a pleasure to get to know these amazing and accomplished women and to shine the Chic Spotlight on all that CREW is doing for the women in commercial real estate.
      


      

      

      

      Thanks for tuning in, be sure to check out the Chic Perspectives Aftershow of this episode on the Chic Entrepreneur Facebook Fanpage http://www.facebook.com/TheChicEntrepreneur
      

      

      Until next time, wishing you all Chic Success, 
      

      

      Elizabeth 
      


      

      
 
		
      
		 
	
      
	 

	
	

      
	
      
		
      Elizabeth Gordon interviews Jennifer Shields Founder & President, Posh Tot Events and Susan Rae and Gale Middleton of roam Atlanta on the Chic Perspectives Show, co-hosted by Laura Scholz of Scholz Communications and CRAVE Atlanta
      

		 
		
      
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      Susan Rae, Gale Middleton, Elizabeth Gordon, Jennifer Shields, Laura Scholz
      Susan Rae, Gale Middleton, Elizabeth Gordon, Jennifer Shields, Laura Scholz
      

      

      Yet another fabulous line up on the Chic Perspectives Show this week.  Laura Scholz of Scholz Communications http://www.facebook.com/scholzcommunications and CRAVE Atlanta was my guest cohost this week on the Chic Perspectives Show.  So we got to chat about all that’s up with CRAVE and the great events going on around Atlanta.  For more on all that go to  http://thecravecompany.com/atlanta/ 
      

       
      

      Our first guest was Jennifer Shields Founder & President, Posh Tot Events
      

      After a 12 year corporate career in marketing Jennifer Shields left corporate America, (and all the perks) behind, to follow her dream of becoming an entrepreneur. She turned her passion for planning events into Posh Tot Events, a full service event planning company that specializes in children’s birthday parties and baby showers
      

      Jennifer talked about why someone would hire an event planner for a kids birthday party. 
      

       
      

        

      •  Posh Tot Events provides a niche service for busy moms that want to throw a great party for their children but are short on time, creativity or both!
        • 

      •   Posh Tot Events takes ALL of the stress out planning a party making it fun and relaxing for the moms 
        • 

      •   We are offering a summer Princess Camp this year for girls that is targeted towards 4-6 year olds with an emphasis on manners and etiquette. Registration info available at poshtotevents.com
        • 

      •   We have several themes for boys as well as girls and many of our clients come back year after year and always get something fresh and new. 
        • 

      

       
      

      Be sure to check them out @ www.poshtotevents.com
      

       
      

      And become a friend of Posh Tot Events @ Facebook.com/poshtotevents
      

       
      

      Keep up with the latest @ twitter/jenshieldsATL
      

       
      

       Next up were the wonderful women of roam Atlanta, a one-of-a-kind business cafe and meeting space that is open to the pulic located at 5815 Windward Parkway Suite 302, Alpharetta, United States, 30005
      

      www.roamatlanta.com
      

       
      

      Susan Rae, roam writer and Marketing Director and Gale Middleton, the Director of Membership @ roam Atlanta joined me in the studio. 
      

       
      

      Suan and Gale talked about how members and patrons enjoy free wifi in the cafe and can order breakfast, lunch, coffee, wine & beer.  They also have access to 8 small, medium, and large conference rooms for private meetings, seminars, and networking events. 
      

       
      

      Susan promotes roam sponsored & member events as well as launching roam’s marketing programs.  Gale provides support to members to help them grow their businesses. 
      

       
      

      I can speak from experience and say that roam offers “insanely great” meeting experiences.  f you are the kind of person who wants to maintain a professional image without paying for expensive office space or meeting clients in coffee shops, roam is the place for you. 
      

       
      

        

      • roam is the only co-working and meeting space that is open to the public. 
        • 

      • roam serves its patrons as a co-working spot, its members as a private meeting space and corporations as an off site meeting space, and the community with seminars, special interest groups and education. 
        • 

      • roam members get marketing support as part of their membership.  They promote their events via the roam newsletter, website, social media sites and with flyers and inhouse marketing and through the Georgia Alliance of Private Clubs. 
        • 

      • roam patrons meet other entrepreneurs in the cafe and at events to network, share experiences and make new connections. 
        • 

      

       
      

      Susan and Gale told us all about a new program roam just launched called the “Get a Room” campaign.  They are offering 2 hours free in a small conference room with free coffee service of their award winning custom blend – Just mention that you heard about it on the show – and stop by roam Atlanta and take advantage of this great free offer to try the place out – and get a room! 
      

       
      

      roam has also formed a relationship with Steelcase Corporation and is test driving their media:scape collaboration furniture from April 13-May 1.  They also have a new series especially for women call WE @ roam: Women Entrepreneurs, Women of Excellence and Women’s Events – Check out what’s coming up: 
      

       
      

        

      • The One-page Business Plan Workshop is Wed. April 21 from 9-11am
        • 

      • Shop the Swap: Clothing & Accessory Swap – Sat April 24, 2-4pm, with dropoff 11:30-1:00pm
        • 

      • And I’m speaking there at an after hours mixer on May 6th at 6pm  – so you know that will be awesome : ) 
        • 

      

       
      

      find out more about roam atlanta @ www.roamatlanta.com and become friends and followers @ facebook/roamatlanta and twitter.com/roamatlanta 
      

      

      Thanks again to my co-host Laura Scholz of CRAVE Atlanta and Scholz Communications and to Pink Payments the Merchant Services for women providing Commerce with a Conscience. 
      

      

      Thanks to you all for listening. 
      

      

      Until next time
      

      Wishing you all Chic Success, 
      

      

      Elizabeth 
      
 
		
      
		 
	
      
	 

	
	

      
	
      
		
      Elizabeth Gordon interviews Bonnie Buckner Reavis CEO of Zenith Design Group and Jessie Harrison and Sara Cook founders of Choosey Chicks on The Chic Perspectives Show
      

		 
		
      
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      Elizabeth Gordon, Bonnie Reavis, Sara Cook, Jessie Harrison
      Elizabeth Gordon, Bonnie Reavis, Sara Cook, Jessie Harrison
      

      

      I was thrilled to have established entrepreneur, Bonnie Buckner Reavis who is the Founder and CEO of Zenith Design Group, Inc. and Jessie Harrison and Sara Cook founders of Choosey Chicks. 
      

       
      

      Bonnie Buckner Reavis started Zenith Design Group, a full-service marketing and advertising agency, now located in historic Marietta Station in downtown Marietta 12 years ago.  The award-winning agency is home to a remarkable group of creative, business-minded talent that fuses a keen business sense with innovative design. As CEO, she is responsible for sustaining and growing client relationships, providing strategic counsel, and managing client programs.
      

       
      

      Recent claims to fame include:
      

        

      •  2008 Top 25 Small Business of the Year – Cobb Chamber of Commerce and Atlanta Journal Constitution
        • 

      •  2009 Top 25 Small Business of the Year – Cobb Chamber of Commerce and Atlanta Journal Constitution
        • 

      •  Top Ten Fastest-Growing Women-Owned Firms – 2008, Atlanta Business Chronicle
        • 

      •  Bonnie was recently recognized as “Top 20 under 40” by Cobb Life Magazine – May 2010
        • 

      

       
      

      Bonnie’s story is fabulous – just like she is.   She shared with us: 
      

        

      • How Zenith Design Group started. 
        • 

      • How long she ran the company by herself and when and how she knew she needed to grow the company.
        • 

      • The changes that occurred when the company began to experience significant growth.
        • 

      • Key factors that have propelled the growth of Zenith.
        • 

      • How the recent economic downtown has affected Zenith and how they effectively positioned themselves. 
        • 

      • Stepping into bigger numbers and assembling the right team. 
        • 

      • Why it’s important to take risks and choosing the pace of financial growth you are comfortable with. 
        • 

      • Never losing sight of the big picture and maintaining balance.
        • 

      

       
      

      Bonnie shared all kinds of great advice and perspective – and she is so savvy and chic – I just loved getting to know her. 
      

       
      

      For more about Zenith Design Group and Founder and CEO Bonnie Buckner Reavis you can call the direct office line: 770.425.5169 or visit  www.zenithdesigngroup.com
      

       
      

      Zenith Design Group, Inc.
      

      The Carmichael Building at Marietta Station
      

      125 Church St; Suite 110
      

      Marietta, GA 30060
      

       
      

      http://www.facebook.com/zenithdesigngroup
      

       
      

      

      Now to get to know my next guests – the Choosey Chicks you have to hear their story: 
      

      Three Chicks began their discussion on the importance of making positive choices.All were determined to get the message out that from an early age, girls have choices. And women of ALL ages can be empowered by the choices they make throughout their life!
      

      I was lucky enough to have 2 of these 3 fabulous chicks in the studio with me today. 
      

      Jessie Harrison had a background in the apparel industry and
      
thought that there was no better way to make this statement than to wear it.
      

      Sara Cook had a background in fashion design, immediately named the company Choosey Chicks and worked on their “vision”.
      

      As soon as you meet these awesome ladies, you can feel the genuine and heartfelt  message their company is founded upon.  They wasted no time in getting this powerful message out quickly, creatively and memorably. These shoppers extraordinaire decided that high end graphics on quality apparel would best carry the message – that we are all responsible for our own choices.
      

      These shirts are super cool and a must have for summer.  Versatile light, high quality breathable material grants any of their shirts – gets instant top billing in my Tshirts pile – I will wear mine everywhere! 
      

      The message is one of freedom, responsibility and authenticity and I love the live and own your truth philosophy.  The shirts become a symbol of your decision to own your own power and happiness in your life.
      

      Not only are the T’s comfy and cute, they also pack a powerful message that will make you mindful throughout your day of the choices you are making. 
      

      Check out Choosey Chicks @ http://chooseychicks.com
      

      THE POWER OF POSITIVE CHOICE LIES WITHIN YOUR HEART – BE CHOOSEY. 
      

      http://www.facebook.com/pages/Choosey-Chicks/75512575246?v=wall
      

      Thanks so much to Bonnie Buckner Reavis, Founder and CEO of Zenith Design Group, a full-service marketing and award-winning advertising agency located in historic Marietta Station in downtown Marietta and Jessie Harrison and Sara Cook of Choosey Chicks for an awesome show.  Be sure to check out their website and get friendly on facebook with ‘em too. 
      

      

      Thanks also to our show sponsor Pink Payments – Merchant Services for women, by women and supporting women.  Need to accept credit cards? Want a rate quote? Pink Payments is all about Conscious Commerce when you sign up with them, they’ll make a donation to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. which seeks to achieve prevention and a cure for breast cancer.  When you become a Pink Payments merchant, your business will enjoy quality payment processing services, outstanding customer support and the latest equipment and software to help keep your business running smooth and efficient.  Check out www.pinkpayments.com and tell them The Chic Entrepreneur sent you. 
      

      

      Thanks for tuning in to The Chic Perspectives Show. 
      

      

      Until next time…
      

       Wishing you all Chic Success,
      

      

       Elizabeth
      

      
 
		
      
		 
	
      
	 

	
	

      
	
      
		
      Elizabeth Gordon interview Atlanta’s Women in Technology (WIT) on the Chic Perspectives Show
      

		 
		
      
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      CIMG3058_3
      

       
      

      

      Today on The Chic Perspectives Show I had on some fabulous women from Atlanta’s Women in Technology.  Heather Rocker, Executive Director of Women in Technology & the WIT Foundation joined me in the studio to talk about WIT and her path to becoming a leader. 
      

       
      

      Heather Rocker joined WIT in March 2007 as the organization’s first-ever executive director. She was named to the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s “Top 40 Under 40”, awarded “Outstanding Young Alumna” by Georgia Tech and most recently won the Turknett Leadership Character Award in the “Inspiritor” category. 
      

      Heather currently authors a blog about strategic volunteering and speaks to nonprofit and corporate groups about incorporating this concept into their leadership development plans.
      

      Heather talked about Strategic Volunteering  – it’s about making the most of your limited time while making an impact in your community
      

       
      

      In order to create the best volunteer role for yourself: you have to know what to look for, where to go, and how to get into the right placement
      

       
      

      She suggested women consider expanding their network by volunteering.  Here are some questions to ask yourself if volunteering would be a good move for you: Outside of work, where am I involved?  What is the list of people that I could call today for a favor or introduction?  Could the leaders of organizations for which I volunteer serve as a reference for me?
      

       
      

      Heather also suggested  you create a strategic volunteering action plan: use your performance reviews/goals to align your professional goals with your volunteer goals
      

       
      

      Check out WIT’s new website @ www.mywit.org
      

       
      

      Find more about Heather Rocker and Women in Technology (WIT)www.Strategicvolunteering.blogspot.com
      


       
      

      My next guest was Fela Strickland-Smith is the COO and Managing Partner at Satori Consulting, Inc. 
      

       
      

      With more than 15 years as a senior Information Technology professional, Fela provides clients with results-focused user centered processes, design , information architecture and usability  for traditional and web-based applications. Fela’s customer-focused leadership approach has led clients including Wachovia, JP Morgan, American Express Global Network Services and Chase Manhattan bank to achieve their business goals.
      

       
      

      Prior to founding Satori Consulting, Fela led technology initiatives, developed products and established business processes for leading companies including Equity Residential Properties, GE Capital Corporate Treasury’s Short Term Funding Group and Accenture.
      

       
      

      Fela is also holds a position as an adjunct professor with the Art Institute of Atlanta’s – Interactive Media and Design Department and also serves as an account manager for Women in Technology’s Strategic Alliances Outreach Program.
      

       
      

      Fela earned her Bachelor of Science degree with a concentration in Math and Computer Science from Virginia Union University. Originally from the Northeast, Fela resides in Atlanta with her husband and two children.
      

       
      

      Fela shared that  research is the secret weapon for an effective web site because it tells you the most important fact you need: how your customers use your product or service
      

       
      

      When it comes to web sites, everyone wants to know the secret to customer loyalty. The key is RESEARCH FIRST, build and design LATER. Given a choice, the customer will buy based on their needs – not on design
      

      The number one question they get asked at Satori Consulting: “why aren’t our customers buying from our web site?”  The answer: they’ve invested heavily in the technology and design of the site without understanding how their target audience will use the site 
      

      Fela recommended practicing the “Three E’s” – Examine your business goals, Enlighten yourself with research, Evolve your web site to meet your customers needs
      

      She reminded us that it is important to also ask yourself: who is your web site’s intended user, and what are your business goals? Then find a way to marry the two.
      

      Satori Consulting builds relationships with their clients while providing world-class consulting services. The result: clients know Satori Consulting will provide results-oriented solutions based on first-hand experience. 
      

      Web application development with a customer focus and product development with an emphasis on new product idea generation is a necessity for businesses building an effective web presence. Satori Consulting is a leader in developing web applications and new products for our clients to build their businesses while focusing on customer loyalty.
      

       
      

      Find out more about Satori Consulting @  www.satoriconsultinginc.com – 1200 Abernathy Rd., Ste. 1700 Atlanta, GA 30328
      

       
      

       
      

      My next guest was Jamie Greene, who is a Partner at Kilpatrick Stockton. 
      

       
      

      Jamie is a patent attorney with Kilpatrick Stockton where she has been obtaining and providing legal advice relating to biotechnology and pharmaceutical patents for over 25 years. As a co-leader of the Kilpatrick Stockton Health and Life Sciences Team, Jamie advises individuals, universities, and small start-up companies to large international companies on intellectual property issues. 
      

      She received a degree from Wellesley College in Molecular Biology, a law degree from Emory University and a Masters in Immunology from Emory and has been an adjunct professor of Intellectual Property at Emory Law School. In addition to being the immediate past-president of Women in Technology, Jamie is on the board of the Huntington’s Disease Society of America and Childspring International, and is a member of the Emory University Conflict of Interest Committee, the Georgia BIO Education and Workforce Development Committee and the CDC Foundation National Advisory Council.
      

      Jamie shared her story and told us that it wasn’t easy being the first female patent attorney in Atlanta, but she has a determination to succeed. 
      

      As the graduate of an all-women’s college, Jamie is not easily intimidated. She is driven and passionate about the improvement of health and prevention of disease
      

      She had a dream to contribute to something that had a huge impact on the health of humans and animals and started as a scientist in cancer research, but the results didn’t come fast enough. 
      

      Most people don’t realize that improvements in healthcare are directly related to patents
      

      Discoveries must be patentable to provide business with the incentive to develop technology that will improve health. 
      

      By helping scientists obtain patents, Jamie achieves her original goal and has actually contributed to the eradication of illness and disease. 
      

      She has worked on obtaining patents involving human papillomavirus, the infection that can cause cervical cancer and death if not diagnosed and treated
      

      The patents enabled a company to obtain the funds to develop a test that is now used to diagnose HPV infection at an early stage, resulting in the prevention of many deaths
      

      Currently, she is helping  a scientist obtain patents on a diagnostic method for the early detection of breast cancer. He had to start his own company in order to develop and produce diagnostic tests based on his discovery. Patents were essential to funding and funding was necessary for successful research and development.
      

      So was all the hard work worth it?   Organic Chemistry class, demeaning law professors, the Patent Bar exam and all those late nights studying and writing patent applications, when asked if she would do it all over again, Jamie Green answers an unequivocal -Yes, in a heartbeat.
      

       
      

      To contact Jamie go to www.kilpatrickstockton.com
      

       
      

      Next up was Tricia Dempsey, the founder and CEO of Agile, the IT staffing and consulting firm that works with technology leaders to speed their time to talent.  Tricia also serves as a board director for both Women in Technology and Komen for the Cure – Greater Atlanta. 
      

      Tricia talked about research that shows top talent is 250% more productive than average employees and what her firm does to help companies find the right people fast.
      


      

      

      To hire someone with top talent, you must understand your need (beyond your job description) by creating a performance profile.
      

      Tricia says the performance profile should “start with the end in mind” – you should consider what you will be reviewing  the winning candidate on one year from the date of hire. 
      

       
      

      Additionally, performance profiles consider hard skills, but also soft skills, values/motivators and behavioral style.
      

       
      

      The bottom line – Hire slow…fire fast
      

       
      

      Find out more about Agile the IT staffing company @ www.gotoagile.com
      

       
      

      Next in the group was Mary Lou Heastings, President of Executive Alliance
      

       
      

      As president of Executive Alliance, Mary Lou Heastings has responsibility for guiding the expansion of the company’s portfolio of technology related leadership award recognition programs, executive summits, roundtables, and custom programs across the U.S. Her leadership has resulted in the establishment of a national network for senior level executives in Fortune 1000 organizations. An avid boater, she also received her Captain’s license in 2004.
      

      Mary Lou told us that it’s not enough to be good at what you do, people need to know how good you are 
      

       
      

      She recommends you stake out a corner – the key to building great recognition is “know me for this”  You want to showcase not what is most different, but most compelling. 
      

       
      

      Promote your vision; lead strategically, emphasize the journey, and focus on the vision
      

       
      

      Leaders in a market are thought leaders, thought leadership is message based
      

      Build great messages for yourself or your company that start with a named problem that needs to be solved for your customer or your organization 
      

      Recognized leaders have built “journey messages”; they showcase their intermediary wins to validate their journey
      

      The real test of a great message is how your message is retold.  Leverage your visibility and recognition; maintain differentiation, aura, and momentum
      

       
      

      Check out more about Executive Alliance @ www.execalliance.com
      

       
      

      We talked about some of the trends to lookout for in technology as well as the importance of supporting math and science education for women and girls. 
      

       
      

      Thank you again to Heather Rocker bringing all these wonderful Women in Technology into the studio for a fantastic show. 
      

      

      P.S. Check out the after-show video 
      
 
		
      
		 
	
      
	 

	
	

      
	
      
		
      Elizabeth Gordon interviews Lisa C. Decker Certified Divorce Financial Analyst & Founder of Divorce Money Matters-Miss Money Matters- and Cheryl Draa of Cheryl Draa Interior Designs
      

		 
		
      
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      CIMG3055
      

      Today on the Chic Perspectives Show I had on Lisa C. Decker, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, and Cheryl Draa, an Interior Designer – both successful and savvy entrepreneurs who shared some great advice from their own areas of expertise and experiences in starting and growing successful businesses. 
      

      

      Lisa Decker , aka Miss Money Matters, is the founder of Divorce Money Matters and a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA™).  As a media resource who has been interviewed by many media sources including CNN, Good Morning America, Business Week, Forbes for Women, The NY Times and Oprah magazine, Lisa is an expert in divorce financial matters, a discreet problem-solver and a trusted advisor to her clients. In addition, she holds Series 6, 63 and 65 and insurance licenses.
      

      Lisa shared some great advice regarding how to “Divorce Your Spouse, Not Your Money!” with good planning early on in the process.  Here are some of the points worth remembering:
      

        

      • You need a team to get the best outcome and settlement in your divorce.
        • 

      •  Put your game plan in place if possible long before you file for the best results.
        • 

      • Get organized early on to save lots of money in fees to your attorney and CDFA.
        • 

      • There are more peaceful methods of divorcing if you start right from the beginning.
        • 

      • Attorneys do not always know what they don’t know.
        • 

      • Getting the right attorney and financial advisor are crucial from the start.
        • 

      • Know what questions you need to ask an attorney during an interview.
        • 

      • 50/50 is not always what it appears to be when taxes are taken into account. 
        • 

      •  Divorce has many pitfalls that you can fall into if you are not aware.
        • 

      • The house may be a noose around your neck.  Don’t become attached to things.
        • 

      • Understand the short and long term ramifications of the choices you are making.
        • 

      • Divorce courts do not have the authority to make creditors abide by your agreement.
        • 

      •  If your name is still attached to the debt, then you are still legally liable regardless of who has been ordered to pay.
        • 

      •  Don’t forget the importance of backing up payments owed like spousal and child support with life and disability insurance in case something happens to your ex.
        • 

      

      

      Find out more about Lisa’s business @
      

      www.DivorceMoneyMatters.com
      

      Based in Kennesaw, but serving the entire state of Georgia
      

       
      

      

       
      

      Cheryl is the lead designer at Cheryl Draa Interior Designs.  The company specializes in full residential interior design including room arrangements, custom upholstery, custom window treatments and accessories.  Cheryl is a member of IFDA, NFIB and WFCP. 
      

      Cheryl shared how she started her company from home with modest expectations and how she has grown it into an ongoing flourishing concern with loads of loyal clients that come back to her again and again to work on another house, another room, and fresh new look.  She talked about the process of choosing the right interior designer for you.  How she gets to know her clients’ style and lifestyle to insure that the end results suits their tastes and their lives.
      

      We also got the low down on all the latest trends in home furnishings and accessories and some great ideas on how to update your space and create a home that is functional and fabulous.
      

      

      http://www.CherylDraaInteriorDesigns.com
      

      http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=43448192766