BlogHer Sponsor Love: EKSIT Strategies...Mompreneur Tips

 

When talking with Colin and Trevor from EKSIT Strategies about mompreneurs {and entrepreneurs} who are just starting out, their number one tip was

Know what you know, and know what you don't know

I couldn't agree more, and thought that it was a really great topic for their sponsor post this month. I am a firm believer in excelling in a few, rather than being mediocre at alot, and Colin spoke volumes to that.

He said that there are alot of specialists out there, like those who specialize in legal services, tax strategies and things like that, and alot of new businesses could find themselves in tough spots if they haven't gotten the proper advice from those people; thereby admitting what it is that they don't know, which for women in general {sorry to say...} is difficult.

When I think about what it is that I know as a mompreneur, I know how to structure my time wisely, how to create some gorgeous pieces of art and how to network throughout the proper social media channels to engage with other bloggers and like minded individuals.

What I don't know is how to stay on top of my Quickbooks, how to increase my sales naturally, or how to get the most bang for my advertising buck.

I know that I know, and I know what I don't know...it's the perfect time to implement a business strategy with the guys at EKSIT Strategies.

Talk-To-Me Tuesday: Tea Party Tips

Some of the things that I'm inspired by most are the absolute most vintage and most simple...take a tea party for example...



Hang teacups from tree branches with pretty ribbon. They don't have to match, and I think it's the fact that they don't match that adds to the charm.



Simple sugar cookies made to look like teabags...dipped in chocolate. What an easy party favour! You could wrap them in parchment, and close them up with a very simple sticker or tag, with the string hanging outside. Perfectly simple and elegant



And what's a tea party without cake? If you can add ruffles in there somehow, have different plates (maybe even use the saucers from the teacups you just hung from the trees), and maybe a few sugar bowls with different jams, clotted creams and honey...you're so far ahead of the game it's not even funny!

For a tea party, my rule of 3 doesn't apply. Fill up that table...preferably a long table...with a mix mash of vintage cups, saucers, teapots, flowers in mason jars, cake stands even. Just keep it all in the centre, putting your highest items in the middle of the table and working down in height as you grow out toward the edges.

Happy Tea Party!

Mompreneur Monday: CoachInU

Good morning everyone!

What a sweet week we have in store; a new Mompreneur today, and Valentine's day tomorrow!!

Today, I'd like to introduce you to Nuria Lencina - a life coach and mentor who coaches specifically expectant and new mothers on how to deal with the expectations of their new role as a mama. Man...how I wish I had of met Nuria 20months ago! Her advice is nothing short of inspirational!

What do you do?

My name is Nuria Lencina and I am a mother of two, a Psychologist and a Certified Professional Coach. I empower expectant and new moms to embrace their motherhood by supporting them with their daily struggles.

How do you maximize your time as a busy mom running a business?

I do have my own struggles but I am now working on a TimeMap to support my progress and keep me on task. Not having structure makes me procrastinate and also not value the things that I do. By having a system in place that holds me accountable for my own actions I feel supported and it gives me sense of direction.

What do you see as your greatest challenge being a MOMpreneur?

I think that time management is the most challenging aspect of having my own business, especially since I have small children. In my case I have a 5 year old and a 3 year old. They are still very attached to me and I consider them my full time job. Running my business has to come in second place and it is difficult to let go of your work commitments in order to care for your family. Setting up the boundaries, and not neglecting my job or my mom priorities, is very difficult.

What advice do you have for other moms looking to start a business?

I would say to them that the key for success, apart from a great business idea, is a really good support system and a lot of patience. If you believe in your product, and you are committed enough to start a business, there are a lot of chances that you will get what you want. But it is important to establish SMART (Specific, Measurable, Realistic, Timely) goals and objectives and surround yourself with a good support system to help you accomplish them. Having all that in place it is a question of time, and it can take a while, but PATIENCE has to be present in your goals too.

Is there anything additional you'd like to share?

I would like to share with you that it is never late to ask for help. If you feel like giving up find someone to talk to. Get into a networking group, join some kind of group of moms who talk about what you love, call your best friend, do something, but don't give up just yet. It is really hard to have your own business, take care of your family, run the household, and on top of that remember to wash your face in the morning. But you are not alone, there are so many of us doing it everyday. Let it out.

I would like to offer EXCLUSIVELY to the SweetStellas readers a 50% discount (ONLY $45) on their first coaching session with me, if they are willing to explore what coaching can do for them, or how I can help them get a better daily structure, how to improve their communication with their partner, how to find ME time, how to cope with the emotional rollercoaster, or how to increase the confidence and self-esteem.

Also, if you decide to sign up for the ‘’Foundation Package’’ (4 x coaching sessions – $359) and you refer a friend that signs up for another ‘’Foundation Package’’, you will immediately receive a 50% discount on your purchase, or on your next purchase. This offer allows you to one discount only and cannot be combined with any other offers.

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Talk-To-Me Tuesday....with Sarah Sloboda

Good morning everyone!!

I have a special treat for all you mompreneurs and mama bloggers out there! I'd like you to meet Sarah Sloboda, who is a brilliant photographer creates gorgeous heirloom inspired photos and runs fantastic workshops! She's here to help you all make the most with iphoneography! {note: she's seriously making me want an iPhone!}

iPhoneography for Business Owner Moms
by Sarah Sloboda

As a photojournalist-style photographer, I am enamored with real moments in
time. I love photographing kids because they’re so spontaneous! We adults can
learn a lot from their free-spiritedness. I see a lot of moms who want their kids’
hair to be brushed just so, for their clothes to be perfect, and for their smiles to be
practiced. However, none of those things speak to me of childhood. So, I
encourage the kids to giggle, to run, and to explore. Yes, I have to chase them
around a lot. But when they stop and catch their breath, I am ready with my
camera. And, they’re usually beaming.

If you want to take better photos of your family (and set your child up to be more
photogenic for life), think of yourself as a documentarian. Document what you
want, yes. But don’t manipulate. Don’t ask for poses. And, don’t fuss! Let the
kids enjoy themselves, and what you hold dear about this time in your life will
show through in the moments you capture.

The iPhone is an incredible tool for moms and business owners alike. I
recommend you turn the flash off, and pay attention to natural light sources in
the environment you’re shooting in. Make sure to arrange yourself so that light is
falling on your subject. In other words, if you’re facing a lamp and the baby is
silhouetted in between you and it, don’t expect the camera to give you a good
exposure. And, be sure you get low to the ground – you want to be on your
subject’s level.

Plus, the iPhone is something you already take everywhere you go, so using it for
social networking and marketing is a no-brainer. It’s an invaluable tool for giving
your audience that coveted glimpse behind the scenes.

iPhonegraphy tips for documenting your family and business
marketing:

1. Get on Instagram! If you haven’t already, sign up for an Instagram account.
It’s free! Just go to the app store and install. If you want to use it for marketing,
select a username that corresponds with your brand. For instance, my Instagram
name is sloboda.

2. Apply filters to your images before you share them. If you also install other
photography apps, you’ll have a whole bunch of one-click PhotoShop-like settings
at your fingertips. My favorites include Hipstamatic, Snapseed, Camera+, Iris,
and Filterstorm. They range from $1.99 to $5.99, and can seriously enhance just
about any image you take.

3. Mix and match multiple filters from various programs by saving to your photo
library and then opening in a new program. When you’re pleased with your
flashy new picture, open Instagram and click on “share,” to upload.

4. Get tagging! Hashtags are a great way to get followers of similar interests on
Instgram. Use @[username] tags to respond to someone who has commented on
yours or another’s photo. Link your profile to twitter and automatically tweet
your photo (with capture and hashtags – up to 160 characters, of course). To be
really savvy, use twitter tags in Instagram so your intended audience sees your
image.

5. Be yourself. Share your interests, and your day-to-day. Document moments
with your family. Get involved in an activity! Frame your shot and be ready to
snap when natural smiles (and all kinds of expressions) occur.

Sharing photos of genuine moments goes a long way towards communicating
your values to your audience. A picture’s worth a thousand words, right? That’s
like 41 tweets!

*****
Sarah Sloboda is a modern kids photographer. She has been featured in
numerous publications, and her work can be found at http://sarahsloboda.com.
Be sure to follow “sloboda” on Instagram.
All content and photos ©Sarah Sloboda 2012. These images were produced
exclusively on an iPhone.

Mompreneur Monday: Awe Inspired Designs

Happy Monday! I have a wonderful new Mompreneur to introduce you to today, Cicily Atkins of Awe Inspired Designs.

I ran across her shop on the Dreamers into Doers forum on facebook, and was immediately blown away by her letterpress invitations and custom stationery for every occasion. There's just something about an embossed font that I just absolutely love. Cicily's designs are gorgeous and wonderful, and I am pleased to introduce you to her today.

What do you do?

I take paper dreams and turn them into a reality. I meet with clients who want stationery that does not come from a catolog. With each client, I design every aspect of their event stationery (save the dates, invitations, programs, table cards, fans), each piece custom to each event.

How do you maximize your time as a busy mom running a business?

Oh my goodness, as a momprenuer, I sneak in work, whenever I can. I maximize nap time, and bed time. And when I meet with a client for a consultation I will bring the kiddos to an at home daycare close to my home.

What do you see as your greatest challenge being a MOMpreneur?

LOL.. My biggest challenge is balancing my budding baby entrepreneurs. They sooo want to help me with each project. So i might let them count (teaching them to count, ;-) ) , or I will let them put in packing peanuts, or some other VERY important task.

What advice do you have for other moms looking to start a business?

Nike-Just Do it! Don't stress when you are up late, or if your kids wanna help out. Do your best, and be patient with yourself.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I'd like to offer up a $35 gift certificate towards a Custom Invitation Suite Order (Quantity of over 50 invitations) for a random new fan on Facebook. Custom Invitation Suite includes Invitation, Response, and Information Cards (with accompanying envelopes). Winner will be drawn by random and will be contacted by Awe Inspired Designs!

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Talk-To-Me Tuesday: Unda The Sea...

Unda the sea...Each little snail here...Know how to wail here...That's why it's hotter...Unda the water...Ya we in luck here...Down in the muck here...Unda the sea

One of the awesome parties that I'm working on has an Under The Sea theme, and I couldn't be more excited about it! P's mama and I have been back and forth by email and twitter with ideas, and it's going to be one heck of a party!

While I won't out any of her personal ideas, or the items that will be coming from Sweet Stella's. I'll post some sneak peeks later, but trust me...super fun ideas!

Here are some really great ideas if you're going to be doing the Under The Sea theme this year!

An awesome invitation goes a very long way! This one happens to be amazing and hits on all of the graphic design points that I look for in an invitation.

Think about things in sets of 3...three colours, three design elements (font, graphic, pattern)

Compositionally, things look better when paired in uneven groupings. If you have a rectangular table, consider putting three of these together in a row on your table

Fishbowls full of blue jello and with a few sweedish fish floating in their little gooey home! So awesome, and incredibly easy!

Happy party planning!

Talk-To-Me Tuesday: Party Tips!

It seems as though I've been chatting with alot of you about pending parties for this year, so I thought that I would write out my top 5 party planning tips, as featured over on Growing Up Geeky a few months ago.

We all have our themes...bake shop...dump trucks...choo choo trains...under the sea...afternoon campout. They're all spectacular, and I'm super excited to work with alot of you on your parties to make them extra special, and hopefully take some of the stress out of the day for you so that you can relax and enjoy watching your children have fun with their friends and family.

Without further adieu...my top 5 Planning Tips...to help you stay sane!

1) Find inspiration in your theme.

A theme can come from anywhere...a colour, character, idea, holiday, flower, toy. Once you have your theme, your possibilities are endless...but you have to do with it with grace. Coordinate within the theme. For example, if you're planning a campout birthday party, think about the colours, textures, sounds and smells that you would find there. That will inspire the linens, venue, food, and music! Make a list, within your theme, of everything you can think of that pertains to it. It could be as simple as , to use the campout theme again, gingham patterns and s'mores, or as complicated as firefly lanterns and fishing poles. Once you have your list, pick out a few key things that you think you can pull off really well. It's always better to excel at a few things than slack on alot of things!


2) Divide and conquer!

I cannot stress this one enough...start EARLY and divide your list into things that need to be done now, things that can wait a few weeks (or months depending on how early you start), and things that cannot be done until the week of the party. From there, make some brainstorm charts of those three categories and decide how and when you will attack those tasks. Is there any food that you can make now and freeze, or does it all need to be done the night before? Make a visual, and check things off as you go.

3) Hire someone to do the cake

If you're hosting a birthday party, I do not recommend taking on the task of making the birthday cake, unless you are getting all of the other food catered by someone else and know for certain that you will have the time to bake, fill, frost and decorate your masterpiece. If you're doing cupcakes, make them the night before, and frost them the morning of your party so that they are super fresh or better yet, have a cupcake decoration station with different filled piping bags for the kids, sprinkles and decorations! Cakes take a lot of time and detail, and if you're the type of person who will stress the week of the party, this is not the task to be taking on.


4) Loot bags aren't just for kids!

Consider doing a fun favour for the parents at your child's party, or if you're hosting an adult event, do up some fun favours for your quests. For the summer, think of drink mixes, ice cube trays and a funky glass, tied with bright ribbon. A baby shower, maybe handmade chocolates from a local shop or cake pops from your favourite bakery. Using the campout birthday example, for the parents get some gourmet s'mores made by a local chocolatier, and have them packaged in clear cello bags so you can print off a "thank you" sticker and put it on the top. Little gifts of sweetness go a long way, and aren't just for kids anymore!

5) Consider activities other than games.

This is moreso for baby and bridal showers, but we've all been to them where you have to talk to people you either don't know or have to be centred out in a large group to yell BINGO! No one likes it, so why does everyone do those silly games? Consider doing something fun and interactive, yet simple like a DIY Bib or Onesie station - all you need are blank Onesies or bibs, and paint markers...then voila! Custom gear for the mama-to-be! For a bridal shower, consider doing an advice book for the bride where people can privately write notes of advice for her, in a lovely journal for her to keep special memories in.

Whatever the case, make your event your own and choose those few things to do really really well, coordinating everything with a dominant colour or pattern. Have fun with it, and please please please...hire someone to do the cake!!


As always, I'm only a tweet away to answer all of your party planning questions. I have crazy ideas for food, decorations, announcements, thank-you bags, and even just inspiration. If you need a hand with anything at all, I'm happy to help!

Happy planning!

MOMpreneur Monday: Cherry Tree Soaps

Just in case your weekend was a little ho-hum, I have someone very cheerful, lovely and sunshine-y to introduce you to today; Kristine Bessell from Cherry Tree Soaps! Kristine is kicking off the last series of MOMpreneur Monday posts for the year.

Each week, you'll meet a new mama who is crazy creative, juggles a busy family with a busy business, and get some advice from these incredible women about how you too could be a MOMpreneur in the making!

Kristine runs a lovely shop called Cherry Tree Soaps, and quite honestly...from the first look at her sugar cube scrubs, I was in eye-candy-heaven! She's fun, flirty, but oh-so-real and she comes from such a wonderful and honest place...it's hard not to fall in love with her!

What do you do? I create fun, fresh, natural and gentle soaps, as well as other bath and body products that are good for your skin. All of my items are handcrafted with care, using only the finest natural ingredients available. You won’t find any harmful chemicals or harsh detergents in any of my products. And I have tons of fun dreaming up colorful, unique, and deliciously-scented soaps – the wheels are always turning, and you never know what I will come up with next!

How do you maximize your time as a busy mom running a business? It’s definitely a challenge! I have two very active little boys, ages 3 and 1 ½, who keep me on my toes all day long. I have learned to sneak in working time while they are playing nicely and quietly together (which is rare, LOL!) but mostly I work while they are napping or are in bed at night. I also have the absolute best parents in the world, who help watch the boys for me during very busy times with the business. I can’t yet say that my days flow perfectly with everything on my plate, but I continue to work hard at finding just that right balance between my family and my small business.

Dipped Candy Apple soap gift set

What do you see as your greatest challenge being a MOMpreneur? Most moms will agree that once you become a mother, your own needs fall to the wayside as you strive to provide for and take care of everyone and everything else around you. With two little boys at home and a husband who has a very demanding job, I am no different than these mothers I’ve described. Add a self-run small business to the mix, and it magnifies the issue. My biggest challenge right now is finding time for myself, and trying to take care of my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, so that I can function at the top of my ability for my family and for the business. An overwhelmed, exhausted, and malnourished mom/business woman is not good for anyone, so I need to constantly remind myself that I need to be taken care of once in a while, too!


Ginger Orange Bar Soap

What advice do you have for other moms looking to start a business? Start slow. There’s always room and time to grow, and you want to make sure you do this right. The biggest mistake I’ve probably made is to jump in with too much, too quickly. From the beginning, I’ve had people all around me making requests to see this product or that in the online store, and in an effort to try and please everyone and accommodate every request, I quickly became overwhelmed. Trying to do everything all at once soon made me realize that I needed to take a step back, evaluate what my very best products were, scale-down a bit, and re-focus. I now have a much more clear vision of my brand, and where I would like my company to go.


Amarette Egg Nog Sugar Cube Scrubs

Is there anything additional you'd like to tell our readers?

Cherry Tree Soaps is currently having a giveaway! To enter, visit my blog and follow the directions posted there. You could be the lucky winner of TWO huge 15 ounce jars of our brand new Bath Salts in the scent of your choice!

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MOMpreneur Monday: iBakery

MOMpreneur Monday has a very very special mama to blog about today, Jackie Long from iBakery!

What makes Jackie so special? Well, she creates the most delicious and gorgeous sugar cookies, including ones with printable designs (so very cool)! She's also the mama of twins and just welcomed new little baby boy to their family a couple of weeks ago!

1) what do you do
I make custom decorated sugar cookies, cakes, printables and treats of all kinds. I can match cookies to a theme, and even help set up a complete food table. Cookies can be hand-piped or your image can be printed directly onto the cookie - the possibilities are endless!

2) why do you love it
I have always loved to bake. I love to eat sweets, so that is one motivator, but I also love the smile that a homemade treat puts on someone's face. I am a stay at home Mom to 3 year old twins with another little one on the way. The iBakery has allowed me to combine my love of baking with generating some income - a win-win for sure.

3) what advice do you have for other MOMpreneurs?
If you have an idea, figure out who to approach to get some samples out there. It takes some patience as building your business via word of mouth takes some time, but it is well worth it in the end. Most importantly, reserve time that is specifically for you and your business, so that it doesn't interfere with the time you want to spend with your family. It can be quite stressful to try and put out an order when your kids are playing, as they can't understand why Mommy can't play right then. You may pull some late nights, but I find these nights fun and worth it.

Check out iBakery's website and Like Jackie's work on Facebook! Your sweet tooth will be happy that you did!

Mama Blogger Monday: A Grande Life

Happy Monday indeed around these parts! Our weekend was full of cupcakes, weddings, gardening and family time...a nice treat from being swamped with Emmy swag and birthday orders lately.

Today, I'd like to introduce you to the wonderful Mrs. Gloves of A Grande Life.

Some of you already know her, and know her well. To some, she's Mrs. G...to others, she's Steph. to many, she's an amazing mama, and spectacular photographer!

Hey everyone!

I'm Steph from A Grande Life. I am a mom to two boys {bless my soul}, ages 3 and 2 months. They sure do keep me on my toes! I face the every day with the help of my sidekicks: coffee and my camera. I am still trying to figure out this thing called motherhood and I use my blog to help sort things out. I started blogging back when I was pregnant with son #1 {E} and I haven't stopped.



My blog is my therapy {hey, it's cheap} and I love the support that I have found through the blogosphere. When I am not capturing my own family's memories, I am busy capturing others. I am a momtographer turned pro {which is still weird for me to say out loud}. Needless to say my sidekicks are always with me!

Grab a cup of Joe and swing on over

Talk-To-Me Tuesday

Welcome to the first installment of Talk-To-Me Tuesday (written very late on Monday evening before hitting the hay and praying that our son sleeps through the night. He's cutting a molar...so...all of my fingers and toes are crossed!)

What is Talk-To-Me Tuesday? Well, it's your chance to ask me a question about...really...anything. Crafts, techniques, art princples....baby food, baking, Mama techniques. Anything.

The first question that I've received when I put out the call for topics was

How did you get started in working with paper?

I found this question really difficult to answer, actually!

It all began when I became friends with Diane. She is a lovely woman; strong, independent, insanely crafty, and down right adorable. She is also a consultant for Close To My Heart, a brilliant scrapbooking and paper craft company.

I was wanting to get crafty and make some photo memory boxes for my mom and my husband's mom, filled with photographs of our son during his fist 6 months, that we'd give them at Christmas. CTMH had great magnetic closure photo boxes, a huge selection of coordinated papers, and their idea book was fantastic to let my mind wander.

I quickly became obsessed with paper, and my favourite is textures paper. I learned to emboss paper with a press back in highschool (we'll not talk about when that was) and have always loved the way paper feels to work with. There's something about the act of scoring, cutting, folding, punching...working with paper that sets my mind at ease.

I'm pretty systemic when I work with paper. I have a routine for everything, and an assembly line once all of my elements are cut, shaped, inked and about to be put together. Seeing it all come together, one piece at a time, is something that I find hugely gratifying, and knowing that my customers appreciate each and every cut, fold, bend and score makes it all worth while.

Have a question or topic that you'd like me to Talk-To-You about next Tuesday? Let me know by posting a comment below, writing on the Facebook wall, sending me a note on Twitter or emailing me at shannon@sweetstellas.com

Mama Blogger Monday: Goober Monkey

Welcome to the first installment of Mama Blogger Monday, where a new blogger will be featured every Monday (except the first Monday of the month...still reserved for MOMpreneurs!)

I'd like to introduce you to Steph from The Adventures of Goober Grape and Monkey Man. She is a fantastic writer, an inspiring Mama who's on the go...you know, doing what mom's do...running marathons, losing weight, going to BlogHer'11...being amazing!



I’m Steph, the owner/creator of The Adventures of Goober Grape and Monkey Man, a blog following my family, our daily adventures and our jerk cat, Jack. I’m a full time working, lots of weight losing, wife and mother to two very energetic kids who is always on the run here in Orlando, FL. I write about most anything and everything, but a lot of it is just the craziness that is my family. We spend entirely too much time at Disney, and honestly if we could just live in the parks…we would!

Steph hosts all sorts of link-ups on her blog from Take-It-Off Monday for weight loss and MediFast and Wordful-Wordless Wednesdays to a Friday Blog Hop!

What I love most about Steph is that she is real. There are no bones about it, whether she's struggling with bedtime with her son (a must read!) or gushing about her husband (she's an incredibly supportive wife! Seriously!) or she's talking about other kiddo related topics (travel, potty training, feeding, theme parks etc.). She is real...to the core.

Stop by and have a read! I guarantee you'll love her as much as I do!

MOMpreneur Monday: Blanket Statements

Good morning everyone!

Today I would like to you meet, and admire the work of, Leslie from Blanket Statements. These lovely blankets are definitely the snuggliest that I have seen in a long time, and I hope you love them as much as I do!!

Blanket Statements was founded with this goal in mind: to provide physical warmth, spiritual comfort and love by means of sharing a blanket. For each snuggly, warm throw blanket purchased an additional identical blanket is donated to a women's shelter. Each donated blanket also includes a personal note, or uplifting statement for the woman in need. It is a simple premise - get a blanket, give a blanket.

I started this business at the end of 2010. The idea came forth because I am going through a divorce after almost 20 years of marriage. I was researching shelters in anticipation of needing one, but felt guilty thinking I would take the place of someone who was in an even worse situation than I was. After moving out on my own I started Blanket Statements with the little extra money I was able to scrape together. I am a mom of two teenagers...my daughter is 16, and my son is 14. This journey has been a learning experience for all of us and I feel is making us all better people.

Blanket Statements is an eco-friendly company utilizing as many recycled or renewable sources as -possible. Our packaging, shipping and several blankets are eco-friendly and/or carbon neutral. I also strive to find easy-care products that are made in the USA.

Blanket Statements is a small family-run endeavor. My labor of love.

You can find Blanket Statements online at www.blanketstatements.org, on Facebook (BlanketStatements), and Twitter (@BStatements).

MOMpreneur Monday: Nikki Hart

Happy Memorial Day to my American fans!

This morning, I want to introduce you to a fabulous MOMpreneur, whose designs I positively LOVE! Here's Nikki Hart from Sweetharts!


What do you do?

First and foremost I am a mommy and when I am not busy being a super-carpooling-errand running-jake of all trades mom, I'm busy building and promoting my business "Sweetharts". Sweetharts is my shoppe where its all hand crafted from start to finish. Like most moms on the go, our styles and need for accessories change daily for us as well as our kids. I dabble in a little bit of this and that when it comes to accessories. Hair accessories from clips to headbands in all styles for mom and her girls. Clutches, Camera Strap Covers and jewelry.


Why do you love it?

I love it cause I am a creative person, I love to create and make beautiful things. I feel like I am showing my kids they can do whatever they want to do be as successful as they want. We should all be able to do what we love and if you can make a business out of it, whats better then that?



What advice do you have for other MOMpreneurs

Don't ever give up, find something that you are passionate about and run with it. It might not be easy and it takes alot of work but if you love it, it will be worth it in the end cause you will be doing something you love.



Absolutely wonderful, and such gorgeous work! Seriously!! How could you not want to wear your hair all pretty with one of her awesome headbands...daily!?

You can check out Sweetharts shop here, on Facebook, and follow along on her blog.

MOMpreneur Monday: Ariel Hayes

Hello everyone! I've finally found a spare minute on this lovely Victoria Day Monday to sit and write about a lovely MOMpreneur, find out why she does what she does so well, and share some of her secrets.

Today, I'd like to introduce you to Ariel Hayes of Deco Courture. I've had the pleasure of chatting back and forth with Ariel for a few weeks now, as she is also a member of The Artisan Group and will be providing her amazing line of jewellery to celebs at GBK Productions Gifting Lounges.

Here's Ariel's take on what she does, and why she loves it so much...

I make handmade affordable fashion jewelry for women. I love my job because it allows me to be a stay at home mother and teach my three year old to follow her dreams. Ever since I was little I had a passion for fashion and jewelry. My advice for MOMpreneurs is to always follow your dream. Starting out is the hardest part, you have to build a fan base, products people want to buy, promote your business anywhere and everywhere and manage the household duties and raise your kids all at the same time!


Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/DecoCouture
Twitter: www.twitter.com/DecoCouture
Etsy: www.decocouture.etsy.com

Take a minute to look at Ariel's amazing creations; I assure you, you will not be disappointed!

MOMpreneur Monday: Aromatic Health Shop

Good morning everyone! We've been down and out with colds around here, so I hope you all had a much better weekend than we did!

Another Monday, another MOMpreneur to feature!

Today, I'd like to introduce you to Michelle Reynolds from Aromatic Health Shop. Here's her story about what she does and why she loves it.

I practice clinical aromatherapy and make a number of products for health and wellness. Many are focused on pre and postpartum healing, as I was making these for myself with my first child.

I love to educate people about essential oils and that there are alternatives to conventional treatments. Natural ingredients work without the side effects.

Balance. I know, easier said than done. There has to be business time and family time. Try to schedule out a few hours each evening, or what ever time of day works for you and your family.

Wonderful words, and it's true what she says! Finding balance really is easier said than done, but clearly...it can be done! Oh, and did I mention that Michelle is a member of The Artisan Group and will be gifting her great aromatherapy products to celebrities? No? Well, she is!

You can check out Michelle's full line of products on her website, follow her beautiful advice on her blog, become a fan on Facebook and chat along with her on Twitter.

MOMpreneur Monday: Ribbon Revelry

Happy Monday everyone!

Whew!! After a whirlwind of a week last week (what with two custom birthday orders and a 3tier cake and all...), I am happy to get back to normalcy this week! Normal for us...making baby food, hosting a baby food exchange with our playgroup, mall walking, and creating some really awesome decor for my son's birthday.

Today, I'd like to introduce you to Chelsea Arrasmith from Ribbon Revelry. If you need ribbon...she's your gal!

What do you do?

I sell all different ribbons!

Why do you love it?

I love all ribbon; I get so excited when I receive a new package of ribbon. I love all of the possibilities!

What advice do you have for other MOMpreneurs?

Set schedules and follow your passion. Make connections with other MOMpreneurs; the relationships and support are invaluable!

Short and sweet...but in all lengths and designs! You can check out Chelsea's designer ribbons on Etsy, Facebook, and follow her on Twitter!

MOMpreneur Monday: Kelly MacDonald, Photograher

Good morning everyone!

I'm going to try my best to stay on top of blog posts this week, but it's going to be a crazy one! I have a 3-tier cake in the works for an amazing event this coming weekend for Delta Gamma...so please bear with me!

Today, I am so pleased to introduce you to Kelly MacDonald. She is a brilliant photographer that I stumbled upon through Life With Baby and seriously, her work is absolutely breathtaking. As a mom, I have a whole new outlook on photography and definitely appreciate the little moments...the ones where no one is watching. Kelly is just that kind of photographer.

What do you do?

My name is Kelly MacDonald, and I'm a photographer. I photograph newborns, children, families, and couples and I absolutely love my job. I get to spend my days meeting amazing people, sharing once in a lifetime moments and capturing it all with my camera. I've just recently started offering mentoring sessions and feel so privileged to help photographers who are just starting out. It's a tough haul with lots to learn and in such a saturated market, it's incredibly tough to make a name for yourself, so anything I can do to help people out, I'll do it!

Why do you love it?

Why not!? I meet amazing people, have a blast shooting and get to give my client a gift that's treasured and lasts a lifetime. I've always been creative - majored in Fine Arts in University, spent years as a graphic designer but it wasn't until I started photography full-time that I truly became passionate about what I do. There's honestly nothing better. I love creating images that evoke emotion - real smiles, true expressions, tears...anything real and in the moment. And I aim to offer my clients more than just a photo shoot. More than posing and smiling on cue. The couple of hours we spend together is fun, relaxed and a true experience.

What advice do you have for other MOMpreneurs?

Oh, I'm really not the one to be asking that question. I learn as I go and will be the first to tell anyone that it's not easy. Balancing family and work is tough but so worth it if you can manage it. I LOVE being able to spend time with my boys through the week, and although I miss out on some weekend time (esp. in the summer when I'm booked most weekends), I make sure I make up for it through the week. Just do what feels right, family always comes first but when you can find a balance between passion and family...it's perfect!

Wonderful words of advice and encouragement, Kelly!! You truly are an artist behind the lens...a real...honest...wonderful artist!

Now...there are a few promos to mention that are just absolutely amazing!

Kelly and Life With Baby have teamed up, and are offering Mother's Day Mini Shoots on May 1st! There a limited number of spots avilable, and three different packages (Hugs, Kisses and Cuddles) to choose from!

You can check out the details here

And....for anyone who is wishing to have their own amazing experience with Kelly, mention that you found her through Sweet Stella's, and you will receive a $25 discount from your session fee, as well as a complimentary 8x10 print from your session!

You can see more of Kelly's work on her site, and hop on over to facebook to like her page!

Happy Monday!