Every week “She Shines!” will feature a woman small business owner with BIG vision and a unique business. The ladies featured here have been invited because of their unique contribution to the world of business and the world as a whole, and because of their ability to inspire others through their passion for their work.




Spotlight on: Regina McRae
Name of business: Grandma’s Secrets
What does your business do?: Creates desserts as much fun to eat as they are to look at
Age of your business: 18 years
Website: http://www.grandmasecrets.com
Twitter Handle: @GrandmaSecrets
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrandmasSecrets

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I love to bake and even more love to use my art to show love, whether my own or through my client.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
I began my business with $10 and 9 pies. Having no capital and no resources I had to work extremely hard to build a reputation to the point where people overwhelmingly trusted me.

How did you get your very first clients?
My first clients are the ones who propelled me into business. They felt my products were so good they put money in my hand and told me I need to sell these. They then told others about me, so strangers were always approaching me asking me for desserts.

What keeps you motivated?
The cake business keeps growing, there are always new products for making more and more creative cakes. I want to stretch my wings as far as they will go.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
If God gave you a passion, you have to follow it. You will never go wrong, and though you may grow weary at times, you will never get tired!

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I cant think of anything else I would rather do, so I get up everyday loving every minute. What I love most is when people don’t even recognize my work as a cake, they think it is the real thing.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
I bake from scratch. Others in my field bake commercially, using industrial mixes. Baking from scratch allows me a wide range of flavors and the ability to improvise, such as making vegan, organic, diabetic and gluten free cakes. I also offer delivery, and as such I am NY’s only dessert delivery company.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
Their events are successful because the cake is always the hit of the party. They also don’t have to jump in a cab with a cake, because I bring it to them.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
I am constantly told that the cake was the most beautiful cake, and then they were surprised that it also tasted so good. No one expects the cake to taste good, just sit there looking pretty! Sometimes the children cry and wont let their mom cut the cake because they think it is really their favorite character.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
I have recently begun shipping my brownies, so now people all over the country can see what the excitement is about!

Success in your book is…?
Getting up everyday excited about what the day will bring.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Live your passion, the dollars will follow.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Adventures of the Batty Baker….

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Work out at the gym or run a few miles, read a good mystery, dance, travel.

What are you most grateful for?
Faith, don’t know where I would be without it, and the love and support of family and loved ones.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want to be remembered as someone who loved, and showed it every time and in every way I could.

Spotlight on: Fayanna Hodge
Name of business: Veils by FayAna
What does your business do?: We hand-make custom designed bridal veils, fascinators and vintage head wear for any occasion.
Age of your business: In business since May 2012. Designing since 1983.
Website: http://www.omniveils.com
Twitter Handle: @VeilsByFayAna
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeilsByFayAna

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I have always been passionate about entrepreneurship since I started my first business at 9years old. I made and sold gold metallic Christmas Wreaths that were made out of the old micro-dot computer data cards. I started Veils By FayAna because I believe that I am at a stage in my life where I can fully manage my business without having to stop and go back to a full time job.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle for me was working a full-time job. I have created a schedule within my work-day and an evening schedule that allows me to work on my business until I can do it full-time.

How did you get your very first clients?
My first clients were referrals. Others that had seen my work recommended me to brides-to-be.

What keeps you motivated?
I know the bridal industry is a solvent and thriving industry that will always have a need for my services. I also absolutely enjoy what I do.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Be patient. I think in the past I was so anxious to get started and be a thriving business that I went too fast with some decision making. I would advise any woman in business to make realistic projections and plan according. Your business will have a better chance of maintaining.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I do the work I do because there is a market for what I do. I love to sew and I love art. My business allows me to combine those two loves into what I consider couture designs. What I love most of all is when I present the finished product and the bride is absolutely ecstatic about their veil.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
There are many wedding gown designers. There are veil makers that mass produce machine sewn veils. My business adds a very personal touch that finishes the brides ensemble just as she requested, not an off the rack veil.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
I go to my clients homes where they can hand select their fabric, hair combs, barrettes and more. I also go to their gown fittings and bring the veil for exact measuring and final notations.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
A recent client was so pleased that she offered to allow me to use her gown and the veil I made for her as a display in order to help my business.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
My Launch Party Event will be February 23, 2013. The location will be announced by January 26, 2013. Invites, Evites and Request to Attend notices will be coming out soon. I will also be sponsoring The Biggest Little Bridal Show in March. More information to come and will be available on my website and other bridal vendor sites soon. I am always looking for pretty faces to model my veils at my photo shoots. If you model for me one time I will give you a gift certificate for a birdcage or blusher length veil. If you model two or more times you will a get a gift certificate for a veil of any length. You can use it for yourself or gift it to someone else.

Success in your book is…?
Being able to work for you, maintain a comfortable living and be absolutely happy doing it.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Research the bridal industry closely and find a niche or need that you can provide and pilot your idea. If your pilot is successful, go for it! The bridal industry is a $120 billion dollar industry and it’s not going away.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Fearlessly Determined Woman in Business

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I like to cook, listen to music, and work with wood, decorative painting on wood, shop for antiques and vintage hats and bags, and I like collecting movies.

What are you most grateful for?
I am most grateful for my children and my new grandson. My daughters support me in so many ways and they are my business partners. I want my business to financially stable enough to send my grandson to college when it is time (in 17 years 6 months – he’s four months old now).

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want be remembered as a woman with purpose. Willing to gain experience in many areas in order to make a well-rounded life experience for self and others.


Spotlight on: Leslie Yerger
Name of business: Phase 2 For You
What does your business do?: Life Coaching for parents of kids in psychiatric treatment.
Age of your business: 2 years old
Website: http://www.Phase2ForYou.com
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/QH6aUp

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I have found that while a child is in treatment, whatever parental support exists is still focused around the child and what the parents can do for their child, leaving most of the needs of the parents themselves largely unaddressed. It is this ‘gap’ in the support for parents that I fill with my coaching practice. Many parents at the initial stages of their child’s journey through treatment will likely feel some confusion, shame, guilt, grief and loss, along with anger, resentment, frustration, or blame. This is often a mentally and physically exhausting time. These parents are a much in need and very under-served group of people!

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
There was a time when I was unsure of the set of people that I would focus on serving. Not having that understanding made it very difficult to move forward. However, once it became clear to me what my focus should be, launching my business become easy and very fun!

How did you get your very first clients?
By word of mouth and personal recommendation. No matter what other marketing I do, I think that word of mouth and personal recommendation will always be the way I get most of my clients, given the deeply personal circumstances in which my clients find themselves.

What keeps you motivated?
First of all, seeing the forward movement of clients is extremely rewarding and motivating to me. Additionally, I have come to realize that the more coaching I do, the more energized I become myself, so staying motivated is definitely not a problem for me. I feel so fortunate that doing my work is a win-win situation for both my clients and me!

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
While starting my own business seemed like such a daunting and overwhelming task at the beginning, I found that once I just took the plunge to start, and then worked consistently on it, that it eventually all came together. ‘The Little Engine that Could’, who keeps saying ‘I think I can, I think I can,’ always gets there in the end!

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I love coaching and I love working with people at a time in their lives when they need it the most. It’s the perfect combination of academic training and personal life experience joined together to bring value to my clients. It doesn’t get much better than that for me.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
I know several other parent coaches, but none that view it quite the same way as I do. My focus is almost exclusively on the parent themselves and their own personal growth at a time of crisis in their lives. My practice has less to do with how parents can ‘be a better parent for the sake of their child’, and much more about their own personal growth, happiness, and well being through the process. Almost everybody, while a child is in treatment, is focused on the child one way or the other. I counter that by being there for the parent, while most everyone else involved is focused elsewhere.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
I provide non-judgmental and personal support to my clients who are entering a challenging phase in their lives, when, given the circumstances, they may not be able to get that from their family and friends. Additionally, the personal growth that can result from our work together can be life changing in a very positive way.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
“I can tell you anything because I know you won’t judge me.” While this may not seem like such a big thing, that was really important to me. For many years and through today, I have worked on not being judgmental. Above most anything else, my clients need someone non-judgmental in their lives at time when they may feel judged by others, and most likely are judging themselves.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
I am working on a tele-series centered around grief and loss. Also, I am excited about my blog on that subject which will be featured on my comrade, Cathy Hull Taughinbaugh’s website www.treatmenttalk.org sometime in November 2012.

Success in your book is…?
Connecting to people, and making a positive difference in their lives.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Figure out what those things in life are that energize you, that jazz you, rather than strip you of energy. Then go for it, and don’t ever give up. Also, get a coach for yourself!

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Through It, not Around It.

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
In my spare time I like to hang out with my family and friends, reading, participating in various church activities, and I love traveling both domestically and internationally.

What are you most grateful for?
I am grateful to my family and fellow coaches who have supported me along this journey, to all of the folks at IPEC (Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching) who have taught me to be the coach I am today, and to all the great people that I have met in the treatment industry.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want to play a part in getting the world to understand that when kids land in treatment for whatever reason (and there are many) that it is not always the parent’s fault. Once we stop placing blame where it does not necessarily lie, then better answers can be discovered!

Spotlight on: Shefali Budhwani
Name of business: PamperMe
What does your business do?: Pamper me is a recommendation engine where Pinterest meets Amazon for safe, organic and cruelty free beauty products. 
Age of your business: 4 Months
Website: http://pamperme.me
Twitter Handle: @Pamperme7
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PersonalBeautyAssistant
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/PamperMe7

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I am passionate about helping the society lead healthier & safer lives by assisting them in choosing toxin-free cosmetics. To date, the EU has banned 1,100 chemicals in cosmetics; the Food and Drug Administration in America has banned only ten. There are at least 400 products on the market that contain chemicals prohibited for use in cosmetics in other countries and the use of these products has major health hazards such as neurotoxicity, cancer and reproductive problems with prolonged use. Besides due to lax regulations & new brands launching every month, it is very difficult to determine which products are truly safe and suit a certain individual.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
On account of lack of FDA regulations, beauty products’ manufacturers are not required to provide details of harmful ingredients. Hence, obtaining details of “truly organic” and safe cosmetics & personal care items was the biggest challenge for us.

How did you get your very first clients?
Connecting & partnering with influential social media nodes who are themselves experts and promoters of safe cosmetics helped us get our clients due to the credibility they brought to us.

What keeps you motivated?
Personally, I have very sensitive skin and I have been very careful in selecting my products. My caution was only limited to the manufacturer claims or whatever I could make of the label. But clearly that isn’t enough. At one of the unfortunate instances, I bought a so -claimed “organic” cleanser. This organic cleanser gave me rashes on my face and neck. And I am thinking how does something organic lead to allergies? This is when I started researching online for truly organic & hypoallergenic brands & products. It is extremely difficult to find something useful on Google unless you know the exact brand name or have the luxury to scourge through tens of pages and hundreds of articles.

This is what first motivated me to start my company, PamperMe. On researching I discovered that every month in US alone, over a million people search online to find safer options in cosmetics and personal care items. This number is steadily increasing and acts as my constant motivation to help people make safer choices in their cosmetics & personal care items, using PamperMe.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
I have always been a very social person. Even before I embarked on my entrepreneurial venture, I used all opportunities to network with people. Your network will be your biggest strength when you decide to start something on your own or want to change roles.
A piece of advice I want to pass on is, “Don’t hesitate to reach out for help from other women entrepreneurs and mentors”. I have received tremendous support and helpful advice by reaching out to other women mentors and entrepreneurs. It is heartening to see how supportive we are as a community.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
Like a lot of women out there, I have always been a beauty products fanatic. I love trying new products, and different shades. However, my sensitive skin always made it difficult for try out new products. Also, it is difficult for me to determine which ingredient doesn’t suit my skin and hence I should avoid the product. It amazes me how there are 40 different shades of lipstick and 10s of options for foundation but not enough choices of “truly organic”, hypoallergenic and safe cosmetics. I started PamperMe because I am a woman who wants to be able to use beauty products without getting allergies and without pumping my body with toxins. What I love most about running PamperMe is that it allows me to connect with various beauty experts and bring the reality of cosmetics to millions of people out there and help them make safe choices.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
Although there are several others in the field of beauty product recommendations & personalization, there is no single solution that helps people buy safe and organic beauty products and customize it to their preferences, allergies, ethnicity and skin & hair type. With PamperMe, our focus is safety when we extract and index data from various beauty blogs, archives and relevant databases. This makes us unique.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
People may choose bouncy hair or full hair; shiny lipstick or matte finish or they may choose to feel beautiful without 20 products. But with PamperMe, the most important choice; the choice to be healthy and safe has already been made. We make their life easier and more fulfilling by bringing the choice of safe beauty products & personal care items at the tip of their fingers. By factoring in their skin & hair type, allergies, ethnicity, personal preferences and social connections, we recommend the most suitable safe products for their use and bring all information from experts and the users of the product to them.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
One of my clients and close friends, a young mom, was pregnant not long ago and was using products of one the popular brands who claim that their products are organic. However, she got an allergic reaction and developed rashes during her first trimester. She was scared. On digging, she found that the so called “organic” product contains Retinol. What is Retinol doing in an organic product? She was paranoid and worried that the chemicals that her body has been absorbing may affect her baby. She has since been looking for a good way to find truly organic & safe products. On hearing about PamperMe, she was almost emotional and she thanked me for bringing a platform that she could trust her safety while buying beauty products.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
We are currently signing up people for our grand beta launch (Go and sign up at http://pamperme.me) and we will also soon announce a “Pinning Party”, the winner of which will receive a grand prize.

Success in your book is…?
Getting at least a 100,000 people to use Pamper-Me and make a small difference in their lives by assisting them in their choice of safer and healthier living.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Beauty is not skin deep. You can be pretty without adding toxins to your body. I also encourage everyone to see this fun video, “The story of Cosmetics” to make everyone aware of the reality of this industry.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
“Get Pampered!” People associate pampering with spa & salon experiences but do not realize that the products used in those experiences do not pamper their health and body within. My show, “Get Pampered” would be about getting pampered truly using safe products.

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I love meeting with other great entrepreneurs who are building great solutions and want to make a difference in this world. I love reading books and hiking.

What are you most grateful for?
I am grateful for my friends, family and network for having faith in me and my potential. I am grateful to our partners and supporters of natural, organic & safe cosmetics, like yourself.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want people to remember me for making a small difference in their and their families’ lives by making their lives non-toxic and helping them lead healthier lives.


Spotlight on: Cameron Laurent
Name of business: Soulfull Wellness
What does your business do?: SoulFull Wellness helps women become happier, healthier and more fulfilled.
Age of your business: 2.5 years
Website: www.Soulfullwellness.com
Twitter Handle: @SoulfullCoach
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SoulfullWellness

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I’ve been passionate about personal development and wellness since I was in my late teens when I first struggled with debilitating anxiety and insomnia. That led me to explore the healing arts first to help myself, and then later, to help others.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle for me was taking the leap of faith to follow my heart and switch career paths. I had been dreaming of having my own wellness practice for years but it took a while to get the guts to leave my previous career behind and go for it.

How did you get your very first clients?
My first clients came to me just by hearing about what I was up to. When I first changed careers I told my family and friends who helped spread the word. I also began teaching yoga at gyms and that helped too.

What keeps you motivated?
What really keeps me motivated is hearing that I’ve made an impact in my client’s lives. Hearing clients tell me that they faced their fears, got in the kitchen for the first time and cooked, or permanently kicked a caffeine addiction after doing my detox feels great. For me, it’s important to know that the work I am doing is making the world a better place.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is to not take things personally. When you are in business for yourself and you are your “product” so to speak it can be discouraging if someone unsubscribes from your mailing list or doesn’t sign up for a program. I used to wonder what I did wrong. I’ve learned that it’s not personal, and that it’s kind of like dating, some people you’ll click with and others you won’t. No big deal.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I do this work because I’ve found staying healthy and balanced to be critical to my own life. I want to support other women and mamas who are tired of feeling drained, burnt out, unmotivated or overwhelmed to find tools that work for them.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
I think that my experience with anxiety, insomnia and depression has helped many of my clients. It’s a subject that I can relate to and understand. I’m also a new mom, so I’ve been integrating my experiences as a new mom into my practice as well. Last summer I started running a healthy eating and cooking program for moms called Healthy Mama. That’s been lots of fun.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
My motto has been “natural, fun, guilt-free.” I wholeheartedly believe in the guilt-free part. I don’t try to get my clients to be perfect when it comes to their food or anything else. We’re all human. I love brownies and wine just as much as you do and don’t believe in total deprivation. It’s all about balance and so I try to instill that into my coaching. You’re more likely to eat your veggies and exercise if you’re happy.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
I had a client once who told me I helped them overcome a life long anxiety through our coaching together. That was powerful.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
I’m going to be running my next whole foods based detox in January. People really love this program and it’s been my most popular offering so far. I don’t have the sales page up yet, but you can be notified via email about it here once I finalize the dates: http://eepurl.com/zrNX

Success in your book is…?
Being happy with who you are and what you are bringing to the world.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Health and wellness is more than just eating well. It’s also about fulfillment and satisfaction in other areas of your life and one impacts the other. It’s important to look at the whole picture.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
That’s a tough one! How about “The New Mamapreneur: naptime was never so precious.”

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Hang out with my 14-month old daughter and husband.

What are you most grateful for?
My family. Every. Single. Day.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want to help people realize that we’re all in this together and that they are not alone no matter what they may be struggling with. Getting the right support is key!


Spotlight on: Leah Salmon
Name of business: The Naturally You Coach
What does your business do?: Helps busy parents professionals and business owners find time to naturally improve their health and reach their life goals.
Age of your business: 6 years
Twitter Handle: @NaturalYouCoach
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LeahTheNaturallyYouCoach

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I’m passionate about how incredible whole foods, natural remedies and life coaching are at helping people revitalize their health and achieve their life goals.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
Finding the time and energy to get anything done with a growing family to look after.

How did you get your very first clients?
I used to sell health products at health events all the time, but my first coaching client was a lady who read an article I wrote in a magazine on the importance of nutrition for children. It took her a year to get in touch after reading the article!

What keeps you motivated?
Knowing that where I am isn’t where I’m meant to be. I know that my 5 children, my husband and I are destined for great things, I know I’m meant to reach so many more people and change their lives using whole foods, coaching and natural remedies and I know that the path that I’m on will get me there.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
People will assume that being pregnant, having children, being married or even being on your period are good reasons why you should take a break and drop the ball with your business for a while. DON’T DO IT!!! Sure some of those things might leave you with a little less time, but they aren’t enough to give you permission to stop following your dream. They are just part of life, not show stoppers.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I believe that you are only going to be as effective in your life as your health allows you to be and there are too many people out who’s health (or lack of it) is stopping them from being the best they can be (or what I call Naturally You). I keep doing this work to help more people free themselves from the poor health that is stopping them reach their life goals and I love seeing people make those big brave bold shifts in their life and health that takes them to the next level. I find their progress so inspiring.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
In the last 11years, I’ve healed myself from several conditions, healed my daughter from a long term skin condition, I went from having 2 premature babies (born at 30 weeks and 23 weeks of pregnancy) to having 4 more children full term in natural homebirths, I’m an author of 3 books (more to come!), speaker, coach and creator of The Naturally You Coaching program – A 7 step program to help you transform your life, diet and body naturally to discover the natural you. As a nutritionist, unlike most others, I help clients create a diet that is specific to their individual body chemistry using a system called Metabolic Typing with whole foods, so it’s much more effective than most other ‘One –Size –Fits-All’ approaches.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
My goal is to make natural health accessible to everyone, not matter how much or how little time, money or energy they currently have. My speciality is finding the best way clients to add more whole natural foods to their live in the most convenient way for them, so they can boost their energy, reduce their cravings and comfort eating and start working on their life goals

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
I worked with a young man who after a few months work said to me “I finally get it, I feel so free, there’s nothing I can’t do” and his wife who I also worked with told me “You’re changed our lives, we’re so grateful to you” I must admit I welled up a bit when she said this. Working with them was such a pleasure so I was glad they were getting so much from it.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
On my birthday 7th November, I’ll be releasing my 3rd brand new book called “Budget, Behavior & Belief – Boost these B’s To Beat Disease” A simple 3 step guide to controlling the 3 biggest factors that can lead to a holistic healthy and prosperous life free from disease, including practical steps, action step, plans and more. It will be available on Kindle for just $2.50 for the first week!

Success in your book is…?
Discovering and then living a life that is naturally you.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
A natural whole food diet, plenty of clean fresh water, a good night’s sleep and learning how to chill out and have a really good belly laugh when life gets to stressful is the best cure for any disease and will add 50% to your productivity levels in no time.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Leah v.s Whole Food – One woman’s quest to find the most delicious whole food restaurant in the world.

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Play cards and scrabble with my children, going to good restaurants with my husband, having a girlie day out with my sisters (this is so overdue, thanks for reminding me) and spending as much time as possible in bed reading or watching comedies with my husband.

What are you most grateful for?
My children, they are blinking hard work, but have given me strength I never knew I had to do things I never realized I could.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
If I could turn hospitals into museums by getting people to pay as much attention to preventing disease with whole foods, natural remedies and life coaching, as they do to treating it, that would be a life well lived in my opinion.

Spotlight on: Anjunelly Gartrell
Name of business: Max & Jax’s Homemade Baked Goods
What does your business do?: Tasty homemade baked goods.
Age of your business: 2 years
Twitter Handle: @AnjunellyCooks
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MJHomemadeBakedGoos

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
Growing up my mother always cooked and baked. I really enjoyed all the people she touched with her meals and treats and this is what moved me to baking. I love to be able to reach people with food.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
Fear like most. Fear of putting myself out there. I overcame it by baking goods for folks that I knew and they gave me great feedback and I stepped out by faith and here I am today.

How did you get your very first clients?
All of my clients are by word of mouth. It all started with a pound cake. I made pound cake and fresh whipped cream and strawberries for an event once they had a bite they fell in love!

What keeps you motivated?
My children give my push that I need. I love when I pick them up after a long day of work and I can tell they have been talking about me to their friends in school because they will come home with ideas on how I can grow and improve.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Women are the decision-makers in the home. We drive the sales, we have such a big part in what products is used today so don’t be afraid to surround yourself with positive women who will help you grow and get to where you should be.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I love baking, it gives me freedom! I love that I am able to do what I love and others get to see my passion through my work.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
This may sound so clichéd, but I cook with love! Simple ingredients, which give me clean tasting products.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
I am able to deliver products just as asked. I take baking off their to-do list for any event.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
I had a client that told me the first time they had a slice of my pound cake not knowing it was homemade they went to two local supermarkets looking for the pound cake. She was very upset because she was not able to find it. Later she found out that it was I who made it she was very happy. She didn’t have to drive far from home to purchase pound cake.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
I will be baking my first wedding cake for an October wedding. I am excited!

Success in your book is…?
Being able to bake full time .

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Do not be scared to only be able to have a few items to start your company off with. You are only one person. Baby steps.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
“A mom with many hats.”

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I laugh every time I say this I love to do two things read recipes and study them. And going to the golf range–my children and I love doing this on the weekends.

What are you most grateful for?
My children.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
My passion for food and my smile.

Spotlight on: Eleasa DuBois
Name of business: Tight Body Makeover
What does your business do?: We empower women with the will to win, releasing limiting beliefs and debilitating mindsets often attached to food, in an effort to release up to 30 lbs in 5 weeks.
Age of your business: 2.5 years
Website/Blog: http://www.TheTightBodyChronicles.com
Twitter Handle: @TightBodyCoach
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TightBodyMakeover

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I’m passionate about helping people. I’ve always been the “go to” person in my sphere of influence when it came to topics surrounding health and wellness. I would often encounter women that gave 120% of themselves to their families, their jobs and/or their businesses. As a result, these women often didn’t take care of themselves and didn’t have any energy left for self at the end of the day. Instead of continually empathizing with these women, I decided to become a catalyst for change and positioned myself to actual help women help themselves more effectively.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
Weight loss is a touchy subject for overweight individuals. Selling someone on a weight loss program didn’t appeal to me. So, I had a desire to get healthier and lose weight and decided to become my first client. This gave me the opportunity to develop my own case studies and adopt a success system that I teach through experience, not theory. I felt better inspiring someone to lose weight instead of selling them to lose weight. Because I have lived the journey, my personal weight loss testimony serves as a success anchor to inspire and motivate my clients along their journey. It strengthens the relationship, making my job easier to empower my clients to win.

How did you get your very first clients?
I became my first client. I performed case studies and adopted a protocol that allowed me to release 30 lbs in 5 weeks. This initial transformation was very dramatic and enabled me to get my first few clients through a viral word of mouth campaign. When I showed up at events 30 lbs lighter in a little over a month, I received many inquiries on “how did you do it?” I had so many inquiries that I began conducting group consultations to accommodate the new volume of business. Since that time, a few of my successful clients have decided to help others win and have become consultants to empower others through their journey. It’s a great feeling to have your business grow with the help of the people that you serve.

What keeps you motivated?
I create customized weight loss programs for each of my clients. I stay motivated by the challenge of developing a program that can truly help an individual to achieve their goals. I’m motivated by a person’s discontent and frustration with their weight. It reminds me of how I personally felt when I started my weight loss journey and all the frustration that I had encountered. I transcend my desire to win to that individual and I light up when I see someone encounter that “light bulb” moment, when they are now actively motivated to participate in their own rescue. That’s when the work begins and I like that feeling of new discovery and awareness for my clients.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Focus on relationships, not clients. When you work to build relationships, the business will develop. Long term business relationships are maintained by people who know, like and trust one another. You have to create opportunities to establish this synergy. Have conversations and learn what people are really made of. Often times, you may find that it is not in your best interest not to work with certain people and that is perfectly ok.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
In the U.S. 36% of the American population is obese. As a woman who went from a size 20 to a size 8 in 11 months, I used to be a participant in that statistic. At 238 lbs, I was blessed not to have the challenges of conditions like hypertension, diabetes and heart disease. Often times these conditions are aggravated by being overweight. I knew a number of people who were also overweight and suffered with these conditions. Instead of just praying for people and wishing them luck, I really wanted to provide a solution to help them. I started with helping myself because I really wanted to be healthier. My weight was tied to a number of limiting beliefs that I had about myself. These beliefs often lead to self sabotage and I would regain and lose weight over and over again. My coach helped me to get past these limiting beliefs and change my relationship with food. I was so inspired by the results of my own transformation that I wanted to bless others and help them change their relationship with food too. The feeling that one has when they can release mindsets and paradigms that keep them in overweight prison and tap into their true authentic self, can help sharpen the will to win and increase success results.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
I am a coach and empowerment specialist. I run a 24/7 business. Private coaching increases your opportunity for success. If you are having a midnight craving for sweets, you can call me for help. I interact with clients daily and this allows me to “get in your head” and discover your true relationship with food. Once you identify your relationship with food and the emotions that are tied to those feelings, we take daily steps to propel you forward towards your goal.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
Once my clients are healthier and have achieved their goals, they are more confident, have heighten self esteem, they experience a new libido which helps in many parts of their lives, , they become satisfied with nourishing their bodies on a cellular level with the ability to eat to live, not live to eat, and they have a new found energy which allows them to do more for themselves or do things like volunteer and spend more quality time with church and family.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
A client followed a protocol that I gave her to lose weight and she lost 19 lbs and experienced a needed drop in her blood pressure. She had been taking medication for high blood pressure for 15 years, yet her levels were on the high side. Shortly after the protocol was successful, she went to her doctor for a regular checkup and the doctor was pleased with her new results. My client thanked me over and over again, because the doctor lessened her medication and told her if she continued to lose the weight, she may be able to get off the medication totally very soon. My client kept telling me that she was hoping to get off the medication for 15 years and by adopting my simple protocol, she’s now on the right road and getting healthier. She thanked me for the opportunity to get her life back and that truly warms my heart.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
I was a guest on The Wild Kat Show August 9, 2012 from 8pm – 9pm. You can tune in by going to the website www.thewildkatshow.com and clicking on “Listen Now”. You can also download the app TuneIn (www.tunein.com), and select the station “The Flow” to listen on your smartphone. I’m also hosting a networking meet and greet. For details visit www.empowerupnetworking.com.

Success in your book is…?
Develop and maintain daily success anchors that propel you forward towards your goal. Once you arrive at your goal, you must maintain your results. The anchors provide great habits and solidify the mindset shift necessary to maintain your success.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. When you need help building a table, you call a carpenter. If you can’t fix a leaky faucet, you employ a plumber. Your weight management may require a professional as well. Don’t continue to ride on the weight management rollercoaster getting less than desirable results all by yourself. Let us help you go within, so that you can stop doing without.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Turning Love Handles Into Sexy Curves – Up Close & Personal With The Transformation Queen.

What do you like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I like to read, write and recite poetry, and I love to dance. Dancing gives me a sense of freedom and a space to exercise and develop my creativity.

What are you most grateful for?
Optimal health and the capability to bless others with this precious, sacred gift. When you are able to perform at your absolute best, you position good energy and great opportunities to find you very easily.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want to make the world a happier, healthier place by transforming lives one waistline at a time.

Spotlight on: Emily Diaz
Name of business: MakeoverDC
What does your business do?: Coaches women to look and feel fabulous every day!
Age of your business: 5 years
Website/Blog: http://www.MakeoverDC.com; and Blog: http://www.secretsofastylist.com
Twitter Handle: @CositaBoutique
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MakeoverDC

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I absolutely love fashion and it brings me so much joy to make women look beautiful every day. Growing up in the Midwest I felt like the clothes shown in magazines were gorgeous but out of reach or unrealistic for everyday life. My goal is to dress women in a way that makes sense for their lifestyle and budget, but still makes them excited to get dressed in the morning – this is the idea of “everyday glamour” that I want to share with as many women as possible. I want to dress every woman in DC!

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
I believe that the biggest obstacles are the ones we place in our own path. Self doubt, lack of confidence- those are the real dream killers! I heard some great advice lately to listen to your inner voice more than the voices around you–that really resonated with me and I take great encouragement from that idea. Listen to yourself, put self-doubt in its place, go forth and share your passion with the world.

How did you get your very first clients?
My clients are 100% referral-based. I am in the business of building people up and that takes trust! I find that my clients respond best to a positive, empowering approach, when they consider me as a friend and guide. Because of the nature of my business I do a lot of networking, relationship building, and of course styling everyone I come into contact with!

What keeps you motivated?
I love creating new things, and finding new solutions to everyday style problems: What to wear today? How to freshen up my look without spending a fortune? How to find comfortable but stylish shoes for work?! Every styling challenge is a thrill for me, and I just love a makeover (hence the name of my company MakeoverDC!) Also, I get so fired up talking to other female entrepreneurs- they inspire me so much. I love nothing more than brainstorming, creating, and developing new projects.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
RELATIONSHIPS. ARE. KEY!! You can’t do it alone, and why would you want to? I find it so rewarding, productive, empowering, enlightening–I could go on and on–to develop new business contacts and grow together. Also, ask for help and prioritize when needed.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I honestly have a fire in my belly that makes me do what I do every day. If I’m not creating, styling, and growing my business, there would just be a piece of me that wasn’t satisfied. What I love most about my work is making women’s lives easier and helping them to feel as beautiful as they really are.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
MakeoverDC is unique because we focus on styling real women for their real lives! I love a hot pink mini as much as the next girl, but I really get more excited about finding the perfect outfit that works from morning to work day to evening event. We focus on finding a style that works for women’s everyday lives, making your life simpler and more glam all at once!

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
I specialize in creating glam, gorgeous *and wearable* looks from stores you shop at every day. You won’t find anything on Secrets of a Stylist that is super expensive or that wouldn’t work on a variety of body types. I take the guess-work out of style so busy women can look fab all the time with minimal effort! You’re busy–I know! Leave the styling to me and enjoy looking amazing:)

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
When people tell me about all the compliments they are getting all of a sudden that really makes me happy.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
I am so excited to announce the launch of our new MakeoverDC website!! Check it out at: http://www.makeoverdc.com.

Success in your book is…?
Dressing every woman in DC–and yes, I mean it!

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
The traditional fashion industry can be so intimidating. Find your unique voice and build from there–you have all the tools you need to make your mark!

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
“MakeoverDC” of course!

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
That would be…shopping? I love my business, what can I say?

What are you most grateful for?
My family, health, and spirit–with those ingredients you can do anything.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
Wow, what a great question! I want to empower women and girls to feel great about themselves, and spread a lot of love, glamour, fun, and fabulousness.

Spotlight on: Yasmine Alexandra Arrington
Name of business: ScholarCHIPS For Children of Incarcerated Parents
What does your business do?: Awards scholarships to graduating high school seniors with incarcerated parents who are pursuing a college education.
Age of your business: 3 years
Website/Blog: http://www.ScholarCHIPSFund.com and http://yasminearrington.blogspot.com/
Twitter Handle: @ScholarCHIPS
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/yasmine.scholarchips

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I am passionate about ensuring that youth with disadvantaged circumstances have a support system and a place to come for motivation, love, and funds for college. I want them to know that just because their parents made some mistakes in life, that does not mean that they have to follow the same path. This is why I started ScholarCHIPS.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle I had to overcome to launch my business was convincing people that my age (19) would not deter my idea from moving forward and being sustainable.

How did you get your very first clients?
After we (the board) completed the scholarship application we sent it to high school counselors in DC, Maryland and Virginia and asked them if they had students in this demographic, to encourage them to apply. We also told everyone we knew and thankfully we received a handful of applications.

What keeps you motivated?
PEOPLE. Both the people (youth) who need me and the people who support me. I want to see a change in the way minority youth think about education. I want to see less youth being admitted into the juvenile centers and more going to and graduating from college. I want to ‘be the change I wish to see.’

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Be persistent and consistent. Branding is everything. Everywhere you go, tell people about what you do because they will see your passion and most likely catch on. This is what you want. You want your business to grow.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I do the work that I do, raising money and awarding scholarships, because 1) I understand the struggles that come with having a incarcerated parent and 2) I know how expensive a college education is. What I love most is actually meeting the youth who, like me, have overcome adversity, and are reaching for the stars. They inspire me!

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
Well, 1) ScholarCHIPS is the only scholarship program focusing specifically and solely on students with parents in prison in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area. 2) We are a mentoring and scholarship program.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
It gives encouragement and some relief to the awardees to know that they have money to go to college. It is a reminder that if they work hard, they can achieve anything!

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
A scholarship recipient came up to me after the awards ceremony and said, “THANK YOU! You are an inspiration!” I was in tears.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
I plan to self-publish an inspirational book of poetry very soon, so stay tuned. I also will produce a documentary on the effects of mass incarceration of minority families and their education by the time I graduate in 2015. ScholarCHIPS has a long way to go…we need people interested in reading applications, fundraising, and supporting us! To volunteer contact me at scholarchipsfund[at]gmail[dot]com.

Success in your book is…?
Success to me is being happy and satisfied with what you do…Whatever that is. Success to me is not necessarily fame, wealth, or recognition. Success in life is wealth of the heart.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Make people understand why your work is important and relevant to THEM!

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Yazzie Yaz: Don’t Play No Games!

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I LOVE to rink skate and write. I write all the time…I blog, I write speeches, and I write poetry. I probably write in my sleep!

What are you most grateful for?
I am most grateful for my faith. Without it, I could not do even half of what I do and stay strong and determined when things don’t seem to be going as planned.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want people to specifically remember me for being a hard-working, dedicated, fun-loving person, who is a lover of people, all beauty and truth!

Spotlight on: Shavannia Williams
Name of business: Heels And Helmets
What does your business do?: Heels & Helmets uses sports to provide professional development for women and connect brands to women.
Age of your business: 2.5 years
Website/Blog: http://www.HeelsAndHelmets.com
Twitter Handle: @HeelsAndHelmets
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HeelsnHelmets

How did you get your very first clients?
My first client came from someone asking me to explain some football analogies that she heard in a business meeting.

What keeps you motivated?
I am motivated by the feedback that I get from women and the interest from young people (especially younger family members) to work for my company.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
The most important lesson that I have learned is to not underestimate your worth or be bashful about asking for it. ASK!

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I do this work so that women develop the soft skills to succeed in business. I also do this to help companies with their communication with women. I love the autonomy and diversity in my work.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
My business is unique because I do not just write about sports or host sporting events. I use sports to help women with professional development and increase resources for charitable organizations focused on youth and women. On the marketing side, we understand women and the way we communicate so we help companies effectively target women.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
My business provides women with the skill set to confidently communicate with men and not miss out on the informal business conversations about sports or sports outings that lead to deals. My corporate clients are more successful because they learn that changing the product to pink is not the panacea to reaching women.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
A client thanked me because one of my networking events helped her self esteem. She attended the NFL glam party in which ladies networked while getting professional makeup and photos. She expressed that as a new mom, her self-confidence had been low. The experience of talking to other women and seeing two beautiful pictures of herself changed her perspective. At that point, I knew that my business was much more than football and experiential marketing programs.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
Our next event is Ladies Training Camp: Developing Your Winning Game Plan on Saturday, August 11 at USA TODAY headquarters in Virginia. This is a unique one-day conference that will empower women to excel in their professional capacities and personal lives by providing a forum that builds confidence and inspires them to develop a winning game plan. Attendees will hear speakers on relevant business topics, get professional makeup and have a private photo shoot. Registration includes the conference workshops, breakfast, lunch and a reception at the end of the day. You can get more information by clicking on the events page on our site at http://heelsandhelmets.com/2012ltc/.

Success in your book is…?
Success in my book is being courageous enough to pursue your dreams and accomplishing them with integrity.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Focus on results. My workshops give women tangible tools to use. From a marketing perspective, I demonstrate results to my clients not just cool tags.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Heels & Helmets…Making Champions

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I am fortunate that many of the things that I enjoy doing such as designing, entertaining, planning events and writing, I do professionally.  In addition to that, I enjoying baking and cooking (As a marketing professional, of course I am all into the presentation.). I also like to travel and explore different cultures. I like architectural design and the process to transform spaces. I have renovated residential properties in DC mixing traditional structures with contemporary interiors. DC has a lot of history and there are several tours that take you through the history and homes of the neighborhoods.  

When I take real down time, I like getting together with my family for vacations. I have a close family and we have a lot of fun with game nights that range from board games to karaoke to Xbox competitions. It gets competitive, but we have a lot of laughs! I love time with my baby sister, nieces and nephews. They energize me and keep me cool.

What are you most grateful for?
I am most grateful for my village of supportive family and friends.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want my mark on the world to be an imprint of providing resources to help everyone be their best, a champion.

Spotlight on: Ange Anglade
Name of business: Reclaim Your Sexiness
What does your business do?: I help busy professional women who are successful in their business, not their weight, stand in their power, tap into their inner body wisdom and get to the core of what’s holding them back from releasing “weight” so they can create healthy, positive relationship with food, body and weight.
Age of your business: 3 years
Website/Blog: http://ReclaimYourSexiness.com
Twitter Handle: @AngeAnglade
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/NdzZt4

What inspired you to start your business?
I absolutely love working with women around weight related issues because I know firsthand that “releasing” weight goes beyond finding the right exercise plan or diet program but one that requires us to look within for answers of why we eat and what’s eating us. My own personal story of being an overworked, overwhelmed, overweight professional wife and mom, trapped in a body that I didn’t recognized forced me to go on a journey of self-discovery where I decided to leave the diet rollercoaster behind and uncovered the real reasons I was holding on to the weight I was caring around. As a result I released over 50lbs and ended my struggle with food, body and weight. I had found the missing link and was inspired to help other women break the chains from the diet rollercoaster so they can end the obsession with their bodies, food, scale and find lasting results by tapping with themselves. I am inspired to help women discover that the secret to releasing weight is not in the magic pill or potion but within.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle was finding time to balance my family, while I was launching my business as a full time employee. My business was growing fast and I wanted to make sure I was available for my clients but most importantly for my family. I didn’t want to neglect my family while growing my business so I developed quality family time where I allowed myself to be totally and completely present with my loved ones. I created a clear time management system that addressed my family’s needs as well as my need to build a thriving business and it worked.

How did you get your very first clients?
I received my first client via social media. Although I had previous relationship with my first client, it was through social media posting and sharing my story that lead my client to reach out and ask for help in solving her weight issue.

What keeps you motivated?
What keeps me motivated is knowing that I am in alignment with my purpose and calling. I love hearing my clients tell me “they get it” motivates me to want to continue to change lives and make a difference in this world.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that you don’t have to do this alone and it’s okay to ask for help. After spending close to a year trying to figure out how to grow a business, I decided to hire a business coach/strategist and that was the best decision and investment I made.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I am extremely blessed to share my gifting with those who are willing to receive it. At the age of 17, I knew I wanted to make major impact in the world and decided to pursue a Bachelor and Master’s in Social Work. I made the decision early in life to be a service to others and now I have combined my passion for social work, nutrition and fitness to help women break free the “weight” of the matter so they can live their life with purposeful intention. I love that I can continue to do what I love which is to be a service to others.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
What makes my business unique is that I inspire women to stand in their power and Reclaim Their Sexiness, giving themselves permission to live freely without guilt, to connect with their true essence and completely fall in love with who they are not the scale. My business doesn’t focus on weight loss or teaching women how to think like a thin person but one that gets to the “weight” of the matter, addressing all areas of their lives in relation to releasing excess weight. My unique and holistic approach enables women to create powerful, healthy lifestyle free from hostage of food, body and weight.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
Once my clients discover that the answers to releasing weight is not in chasing the magic pill, or the next best diet program but within themselves they discover a hidden power, talents and gifts that they either forgotten or didn’t know existent. They realize that they don’t need willpower or tricks to release weight, they simply need to be still listen and show up powerfully to release, let go of the excessive weight, once its released the sky is the limit.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
The most memorable comment that I have received is when clients tell me that they “get it”. That they never realized that the stories that they tell themselves cause them to hold onto weight and that their weight has nothing to do with food. I love when my clients get it and understand that in order to end the cycle they have to be willing to dig deep.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
I recently launched my Reclaim Your Sexiness Teleseminar Series bringing together monthly guest experts who share tips, resources to help motivate and inspire women to live life to the fullest by standing in their power and asking for what they want.

Success in your book is…?
Freedom

What is your favorite quote to live by?
“To change the printout of the body you must learn to rewrite the software of the mind.” ~ Deepak Chopra

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Sexiness Is In the Inside First

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Hanging out with my husband and kids.

What are you most grateful for?
I am grateful for my family and the opportunity to learn, grow and share my gifting

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
Speak your truth

Spotlight on: Amy Ostenkamp
Name of business: Fit Freedom
What does your business do?: I help women to free themselves from patterns they create of judging their bodies and punishing themselves, so that they can get their lives under control from the inside, once and for all.
Age of your business: 2 years
Website/Blog: http://www.fit-freedom.com
Twitter Handle: @Ostenkamp
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/FitFreedom

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I love to inspire women to become who they are meant to be in this world and to love themselves.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle for me to overcome was the fear of being seen. It was way more comfortable for me to stay hidden. I overcame this by getting out there and sharing my message, but more importantly I had to have the faith that those women who I am here to connect with would be there.

How did you get your very first clients?
I received my first clients by speaking in a telesummit another person hosted.

What keeps you motivated?
My motivation is helping women to become a bigger version of themselves.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Do not compare yourself to other business women. You have to do what works for you and your family.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I do the work I do to inspire women to do the same. I love when a woman comes out of her cocoon and grows into her true self.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
My fitness/health business focuses more on the mind set of it. But also, helping my clients to reach their goals that work for them.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
My business creates freedom. My clients are able to really enjoy their lives.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
I had a woman tell me that they admire me.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
Fit Freedom workshop “How to Lose Weight Forever” on August 18 at 9am-12pm in Cincinnati, OH. Contact me for registration details.

Success in your book is…?
Success in my book is doing the work you love to do.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
You will never find the perfect diet or exercise program until you accept yourself where you are right now.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
The Inspiring Woman

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I love to spend time with my husband and two girls.

What are you most grateful for?
I am most grateful my family. I would not be where I am today with out them.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
FREEDOM!!

Spotlight on: Sandra Davis
Name of business: Imagery by Davis
What does your business do?: Art and Photography
Age of your business: 3 years
Website/Blog: http://www.ImageryByDavis.com
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/Mn54to

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
Creating works of art and working side by side w/my husband.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
Obstacle #1 is financially supporting the family while staying true to the craft.

How did you get your very first clients?
My first clients purchased work through word of mouth and gallery participation.

What keeps you motivated?
Finding new ways to explore and showcase the new work.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Stay committed!! Work on your craft, business, and contacts daily!

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
Creating is like breathing for me. Exploring new ways to use the paper we throw away every day.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
Using the mixed media and paper very differently

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
My business is very personal. Each client sees something unique to themselves when purchasing the art. “You Go Girl” speaks to the runner, the person that doesn’t quit.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
You have inspired me!!!

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
Experimenting with landscapes and abstract pieces.

Success in your book is…?
When my work is being seen and recognized.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Enter in contests and shows in your community and outside of your community. Experiment with different mediums and subject matter.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Passion for Paper

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I love to run and exercise. I also like to cook and entertaining.

What are you most grateful for?
My talent!

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
You can create with anything. Each of us has a unique talent and that talent should be shared.

Spotlight on: Stacey Ferguson a.k.a. “Justice Fergie”
Name of business: Blogalicious and Justice Fergie Lifestyle Media
What does your business do?: The Blogalicious community and conferences celebrate diversity in social media; through Justice Fergie Lifestyle Media, I provide inspiration and events for living richly.
Age of your business: 4 years
Website/Blog: http://www.beblogalicious.com and http://www.justicefergie.com
Twitter Handle: @JusticeFergie
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/BeBlogalicious and http://www.facebook.com/pages/JusticeFergieLifestyle

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I’m passionate about connecting with others and connecting people with each other. I also enjoy helping people realize and pursue their passions.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle was balancing my law career with being a mother of 3 and an entrepreneur; it’s required a lot of adapting and being flexible and support from my husband.

How did you get your very first clients?
The Blogalicious attendees came from the community that we had built online. Relationships are the key to any business success!

What keeps you motivated?
My love for what I am doing and seeing the bigger picture. Being an entrepreneur is NOT glamorous! But seeing the end product and hearing the success stories of the people I’ve inspired make it all worth it.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Do everything with grace and a positive attitude. Those traits will carry you a long way.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
See #1!

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
There are only a handful of communities of multicultural social media influencers; also, Blogalicious is the first and only conference of its kind. When it comes to my personal brand, I unique in my ability to draw upon my legal, digital media and event production expertise.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
Blogalicious provides them with a platform to grow and succeed in their digital pursuits. JFLM inspires them to celebrate life and provides business guidance to help them pursue their passions.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
That attending an event I’ve hosted has changed their life. There’s no bigger compliment!

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
Blogalicious Weekend 2012 of course! The 4th Annual Conference is taking place September 28-30 in Las Vegas, NV. It’s going to be a 3-day weekend filled with workshops, keynote presentations, networking and social events all celebrating diversity in social media.

Success in your book is…?
Achieving happiness and financial stability on your own terms.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Pay attention to what your online presence is saying about your brand. Be deliberate and intentional about mapping out a social media strategy.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Life IS the Party!

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
What reality TV! LOL. And cooking. I’m a foodie.

What are you most grateful for?
My beautiful family.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want to have been a ray of sunshine in the lives of people that I cross paths with.

Spotlight on: DeAnne Pearson
Name of business: Deliberate Careers
What does your business do?: Provides career coaching to professionals who no longer want to settle for less than fulfillment in their careers.
Age of your business: 6 months
Website/Blog: http://www.deliberatecareers.comComing soon!
Twitter Handle: @DeAnneCoaching
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/K9GaxK

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I help people move into meaningful careers that satisfy their need to make a difference in the world—careers that do more than meet their financial needs. So often, people try to fit into their careers or find themselves in careers by default. That’s what I did, too, and I want to save people the heartache and frustration it took me to turn my career around. My motto is: Get a life and make sure it’s the one you want!

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle has been my own fears. I grew up in a small-town, middle-class family where you were expected to be either a nurse or a teacher. In my family all the women were nurses, but having visited them at work at the various hospitals, I knew I didn’t want to be a nurse in white shoes, so I became a teacher by default. To launch my business I had to overcome the old rules about what a real job was. Rules like: “A real job takes place in an office with a desk, a job description and a boss looking over your shoulder.” Phew! I’m glad I got over that!

How did you get your very first clients?
My first client was sent to me by her sister. Literally, dropped off at my door. It was hilarious. Georgia used to live across the street and her sister, Lisa, was tired of her career. She finally told Lisa, “I don’t know what DeAnne does but she helps people with their careers and they love it,” and walked her across the street to my house. I ended up working with Lisa for a few months. She created a career she never dreamed she could have and she’s really happy.

What keeps you motivated?
I love the flexibility and the fact that I make the rules. I have the opportunity to do what I love with the clients I love. What keeps me motivated is the light-bulb moments my clients create when they recognize their potential. I also love connecting with people who make a difference in their professional lives. I’ll never get tired of the excitement they have when they recognize new possibilities for their professional lives or when they grab an opportunity with both hands that they never saw for themselves.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
That you can do it. You can have kids and you can run a business. You have to be smart about it, you have to ask for help when you need it and you have to use your energy wisely. You don’t have to settle for a career you don’t love to raise a family. I do think you can have it all, but just not at once.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I think I do this because I’m driven to help people get what they want out of life. I’d rather listen to someone tell me the story about how they got where they are than read the biography of any famous person. Real people with real lives are much more interesting. I get to support people in their journey to find satisfying, successful work. After all, people spend more time working than anything else they do in their lives—sleeping, hanging out with friends, going to school, vacationing…

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
My career coaching is built around the mindset of valuing yourself, what is important to you, what makes you tick, what makes you sing. I don’t rely on a lot of testing and categorizing. It is a very personal approach because I have seen time and time again that when a woman values herself—values what she can do and what she has to offer—her dreams can come true.
I think because I’ve wandered around in my field for a while, trying to fit in and figure it out, I got the personal and professional experience of straightening out my own career plus the training it takes to deliver it for others.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
I take the mystery and hopelessness out of finding the job you want. In a world where you can send out hundreds of resumes without a single bite, you can interview 17 times without getting a position, and recruiters and managers glance at your resume for 5-7 seconds, it’s easy to get depressed and lose hope. I let you off the hook for all those things that really aren’t about you. I put you in the driver’s seat and support you in designing the deliberate steps for real success.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
“Will you marry me?” About every 3-4 years one of my clients is so happy they think they want to marry me.
Probably the best compliment I get (and one I get a lot) is when people tell me I help them realize that they have always had the potential to be successful and I help them see it happen. I love supporting people to be the best that they can be and stand on their own feet.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
My new program “Get REAL!” is based on the deliberate steps it takes to define success on your own terms. It’s for people trying to find a better career and who thrive in a group setting. I’m so excited about offering it at the end of June!

Success in your book is…?
A very personal thing. You get all these messages from family, friends, and the media about what success means. But only you can define that, only you can say, ‘I’m willing to put myself out there in the biggest way and accept what the world has to offer for me.” It comes from the core of who you are, regardless of your title or the numbers on your paycheck, the number of hours you work or where you vacation.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Don’t be Average! Being happy in your career is not about fitting in, but knowing yourself and finding a true fit.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Get REAL!
What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Hang out with my kids or create a piece of art by welding or painting.

What are you most grateful for?
My clients make it all worthwhile. Watching how they define what success means and seeing them soar, I feel like I fly, too!

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I would like to leave my family and clients feeling like there is a unique place for them to shine in the world that only they could fill.

Spotlight on: Lisa Meta Griff
Name of business: Urban Breath NYC & Metamorfize
What does your business do?: Urban Breath NYC – BioDynamic Breath and Moving Meditation. Supporting people to live life
their way using the powerful tool of breath.
Age of your business: 1 year
Website/Blog: http://www.urbanbreathnyc.com
Twitter Handle: @UrbanBreathNYC
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/UrbanBreathNYC

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
Breath work transformed my life and my relationship to myself by showing me a way out of addictive thought patterns. Through this process, I learned to love myself, and I began to feel the importance of offering this powerful tool to others. I linked up with Monica Aparicio, my business partner, who had a similar experience and was in my certification training with me; we currently run Urban Breath NYC together. I am passionate about empowering others to create the life they want by encouraging them use the power of their own breath.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
As silly as it sounds, the hardest part was figuring out how to explain what I do since it is very experiential and scientific in nature. It’s all about getting clear on your big why.

How did you get your very first clients?
It started as word of mouth within a very small breathing community and slowly and proudly Urban Breath NYC is growing that group through workshops, private sessions, one-day intensive Urban Retreats™, and a 3-month program.

What keeps you motivated?
Thinking about all the people that could benefit from this work. As I share the work, I grow and become a better person.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
I have learned the importance of investing in myself as a person and a company. I learned about self-worth and understanding why I do it is far more important that how. I have learned when you offer your platform for others to grow – you grow twice as fast.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I believe that everyone can create the life they want and I love to share what worked for me and to witness the journey people take to uncover their passions and potential. I love the art of communication.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
There is no one else offering this type of breath work fused with Osho Active Meditations, principles from The 11 Forgotten Laws by Bob Proctor & Mary Morrissey. mixed and reflective writing, partner work, and music from all over the world. We bring the urban flavor of music, dance, and energy to our workshops that turn into a transformational experience for all.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
We love to dance, laugh and bring joy and happiness to the idea of change. We make life easier by showing you small exercises you can do anywhere with just breathing that will change the way you think and see things. We show you how to use your breath as a tool to make life easier whenever you need it.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
Someone said that working with me is like getting ‘The Lisa Experience’.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
Besides our NYC workshops and 1 day Urban Retreats™, we just launched an amazing exclusive 3-month program that really takes you deeper into yourself and unblocks whatever is holding you back from living life on your terms. Find out more at www.urbanbreathnyc.com.

Success in your book is…?
Freedom!

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
How you breathe is how you live. Everything you need is already there.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Soul Searching with Lisa Meta or Get Metamorfized by Lisa Meta Griff

What do you like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Travel! Walk around and take photos of graffiti. Go to art openings and galleries, dance, and create shower curtains with my digital art.

What are you most grateful for?
Grateful for all the travel I have been blessed to experience and all the people I have met along the way that have all played a role in who I am today.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want to a be a mover of consciousness, to bring awareness to as many people that they can do it – whatever it means. I am an EncourageMentor™.

Spotlight on: Kate Hanley
Name of business: MsMindbody
What does your business do?: Helps busy women slow down, breathe deep, and trust their gut
Age of your business: 8 years
Website/Blog: http://www.msmindbody.com
Twitter Handle: @KateHan
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MsMindbody

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I’m passionate about getting busy people hooked on easy yet powerful practices that get the mind and body back on speaking terms so they can slow down, breathe deep, trust their gut, and create lives that light them up.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
I had spent most of my career as a writer and editor – a behind-the-scenes type person. Getting comfortable being seen was the biggest hurdle for me.

How did you get your very first clients?
A combination of marketing to my list and getting out in the world, attending networking events and getting booked as a speaker.

What keeps you motivated?
Knowing that I can provide something people are craving – namely, the means to build more inner peace.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
That all the classic female traits – collaborating, networking, sharing, communicating – can make business more rewarding, enjoyable, and lucrative.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
They say your mess is your message, and I found out the hard way that when you don’t have a mind-body practice (as I didn’t when I had two kids in two years, despite having nearly 15 years of practice under my belt), everything goes into a downward spiral – sleep, relationships, weight, career. I love most helping people find ways to get more grounded, inspired, and content – all by creating the conditions where they can hear their intuition. It works every time!

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
I’m a non-denominational mind-body teacher. I keep it real. I’m irreverent.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
I help my clients stop agonizing over decisions, make important choices with confidence, and create all kinds of new opportunities for themselves once they get out of old patterns that are holding them back.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
“You are truly a lifesaver”

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
I just launched the Daily Unwind – a 30-day email subscription that delivers one simple mind-body practice to your inbox every morning. It’s a daily reminder to do one quick, simply, yet profoundly powerful thing to boost your well-being.

Success in your book is…?
Being of service, living your passion, being in control of your own destiny, community, and regular vacations.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
two minutes a day in corpse pose is a fabulous yoga practice

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
One Day at a Time

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Go hiking or to the beach with the kids, meet a girlfriend for a drink, hire a sitter and go out with my husband.

What are you most grateful for?
This day, this life, this family, this practice

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
In the words of Mary J, “no more drama.” Or at least, a whole lot less.

Spotlight on: Candice Camille
Name of business: Madly Living Bed & Breakfast
What does your business do?: We offer a staycation and de-stress zone.
Age of your business: 3 years
Website/Blog: http://www.MadlyLiving.com
Twitter Handle: @MadlyLiving

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I’m passionate about life. Living well, balanced,healthy, and stress free. Being Whole.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle is financial.

How did you get your very first clients?
The very first clients were a referral from a friend in New Jersey.

What keeps you motivated?
I keep myself motivated with God’s help. I am motivated by knowing that I have and will continue to inspire others to transform there life’s for the better.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
The most important lesson that I will pass on is, don’t forget to personally live while in business. Have some fun while you work on your business.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
Helping others to be better and present in there lives and to help them understand that the only way to manage a change is to create one that you are in control of, in this moment. I love to see the transformation.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
Exclusivity.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
The unique personal service you receive at MadlyLiving.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
When one client stayed the weekend she said “I feel so comfortable I didn’t know I was coming home”.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
A Mothers Day Brunch. Gift Certificate for Mothers Day weekend.

Success in your book is…
Success to me is when you’re working in your passion, doing something you absolutely love and getting paid to do it.

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Dancing, Reading, Spending Special Time with Family and Friends.

What are you most grateful for? What mark do you want to leave on the world?
To be alive!!! Living whole and healthy equates to happiness.

Spotlight on: Madeleine Eno
Name of business: In the Write Place
What does your business do?: I’m a writing and marketing strategist who finds words that are as wonderful as my clients are and that get them seen.
Age of your business: 3 years
Website/Blog: http://www.IntheWritePlace.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IntheWritePlace

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I have always loved putting things into words and listening to and making sense of people’s stories. And, since I was very little, I had a strange knack for finding creative income streams.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
My own mindset about money was (and is) the biggest obstacle and I definitely still work with that one every day. Hiring a coach has been a big part of cracking this code for me and has helped me look hard at what value is—and helped me approach my business like a business.

How did you get your very first clients?
People started coming to me when I was working at other jobs and asked for my help with taglines, mission statements, ad copy etc. That helped give me confidence to start my business.

What keeps you motivated?
I feel very committed to my clients’ success because they are out there doing such great work. That’s a big motivation. And I am really motivated by several collaborations I have these days. I tried being a loner but finally got the meaning of the African proverb I have on my wall:
“If you want to go fast, go alone.
If you want to go far, go together.”

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Well, there are new lessons every single day. One of the most recent ones I’ve had is about learning to take chances—not waiting for circumstances to be perfect. I can fuss over the details like nobody’s business and that keeps me standing perfectly…still. I heard “Don’t Just Stand There, Bust A Move!” last week and thought it could be a business-owner’s theme song. Hayya is a great role model for showing what can happen when you just get out there and do something.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I truly think this is the work I am here to do. What I love most about it is I get to go rub shoulders with some of the most inspiring people I can imagine and then come back here and find the words that best describe the work they’re doing and the transformation they’re providing. I’m kind of an outgoing introvert, so this is a perfect balance. And honestly, it has forced me to grow SO much. There is no better way to face yourself and all your stuff than running a business.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
I have had a pretty wide swath of experience and I can speak the language of many different worlds and many kinds of people. I was a bartender for a few years and that helped me learn to listen. Listening to people is fascinating to me and a big part of what I do. I just met a client at Starbucks for an intro session this week and nearly three hours zoomed by as she told me her story. So many gems spread before me to work with! I believe in the potency of owning our own story as business owners.
8. How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
When they work with me, my clients get a really good foundation to describe what they do. I help them connect some dots that might not have connected before—and that gives them confidence and sometimes, more sparkle. And I hope I make their lives easier by giving them powerful, comfortable words to describe what they do. I know that when I finally had a website that I felt represented me, my world got a whole lot easier.
9. What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
One told me I was the “midwife of words.” I loved that.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
I’m launching a new program called “What’s Your Red Shoe Story?” later in May, so keep an eye out for some fun, innovative ways to integrate your story into your business.

Success in your book is…?
I am successful when I live my purpose—being of joyful service.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Don’t skimp on the copy. Nothing is quite so much a let-down as meeting someone who seems really great, then going to their website and seeing: “Text To Come”

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
What Not To Write (I’ve learned a few lessons along the way…)

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Ski and hike, explore the NW (especially hotsprings), cook, read about health and spirituality, hang out with family and friends, travel, run with the dog, putter in the garden, take part in our little mountain community.

What are you most grateful for?
These days, I kind of just swim in the gratitude for it all. Though I am extra-grateful to have the opportunity to create and run my own business.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
Great question! Hmmm. A mark that is bright and deep and maybe makes a person laugh. Or cry. Or want to do get right up and do something.

Spotlight on: Christy Little Jones
Name of business: My Relationship Revolution
What does your business do?: Inspires women who desire to be married to discover the core of who they are, embrace the power and influence they possess and have the integrity and intention to live what they believe.
Age of your business: 7 years (recently rebranded 7 months ago)
Website/Blog: http://www.MyRelationshipRevolution.com
Twitter Handle: @ChristyInspires
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/My-Relationship-Revolution

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I am passionate about women becoming all that God has created them to be. I LOVE being married to my husband. But, it’s no joke! I wish someone had told me about the challenges that were waiting for me after marriage. I want to prepare single women for what to expect AFTER the wedding and how to make the best decisions beforehand to increase their experience of a wonderful marriage after “I do.”

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
I am married with 3 young children without enough support to do everything I want to do in my business as quickly as I would like. Having a family and launching a business at the same time is really tough without help. I have had to get it in when I can fit it in. Believe me…as soon as I can, the first help I will hire is a housekeeper!

How did you get your very first clients?
By sharing my story of overcoming divorce, infidelity and the people-pleaser mindset. Women who want to be married see my experience as valuable and credible. I am very transparent, so that aspect of who I am speaks to more women than I realize.

What keeps you motivated?
Spending time with God, praise and worship, listening to motivational CD’s and spending time with amazing people who inspire me with their courage and push me to become the best of myself.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Always have a strong support system in place and never stay in relationship with people who aren’t for you or want to keep your gifts in a cage.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I have a heart for marriage and I want the world to experience the amazing joy of marriage, children and leaving a legacy for generations to follow. What I love most about what I do is the “ah-ha” moment that women get when they realize the greatness that lies within them. When they finally understand that they are beautiful and worthy of happiness, abundance and the life they want and desire without compromising who they are or what they believe to get it.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
I don’t know of anyone who teaches women how to become wife material before they get married, do you?

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
My business helps women to understand who they are and walk in authenticity and confidence. Have you seen what a women looks like who is strong in her identity, exudes confidence and power and lives what she believes without apology? Whew! She’s stunning!

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
What comes immediately to mind is when a client called me, “The Marriage Whisperer.”

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
I have a conference call for single women who desire to get married “ A Good Thing: Are you Wife Material?” on Weds. May 16th and Christy Unplugged on May 23rd, where I give a glimpse into married life and answer questions from all the single ladies about marriage. And in June 2012, I am kicking off the summer with 3 Confidence Coaching Groups. They are going to change your life! Check them out at www.myrelationshiprevolution.com

Success in your book is…?
Discovering who you are, pursuing your God given purpose and living it!

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Don’t go into marriage unprepared. Getting married is not a casual decision. It’s one of the biggest decisions you will ever make. It’s strategic and intentional. It takes more than LOVE to have a successful marriage. Never marry beneath the greatness of who you are. I promise you, it won’t be worth it.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Keeping Up With The Jones’

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I love to travel with my husband and family. I also love, love, love movies, smoothies, the gym and spending time with my extended family and friends. Oh how could I forget…and SHOPPING!!

What are you most grateful for?
God’s Love!

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
To inspire women to become the best of themselves, have amazing marriages and raise children who change the world! In addition, I have a heart to protect all children and my global mission is to see child sex trafficking come to an end!!

Spotlight on: Honi Borden
Name of business:Honi Borden Enterprises, Author of The Day I Became a Supehero, Feel of Light Healing & Holeco Life Rooted Beauty Eco-Conscious Products
What does your business do?: Guiding individuals to their own inner LIGHT and SUPERPOWER within.
Age of your business: 6 years
Website/Blog: http://www.HoniBorden.com
Twitter Handle: @HoniBorden
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HoniBordenAuthorSpeakerHealer

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
My passion came directly from the center of my heart that had inspired me, awakened me and enlightened me through a very dark period of my life.

You see, I became educated that what we apply on our skin/body on a daily basis, is filled with toxin synthetic chemicals that impacts our health very negatively. I learned this the hard way via the birth of my first son twelve years ago, as he was very ill with major endocrine disruption, before he even had a chance to become exposed to chemicals. He wasn’t alone in what he had experienced. I had also become very ill with a rare virus that attached my thyroid gland. Let’s just say that the brightest LIGHT also came from this very painful period in me and my husband’s life. Years later I understood that I needed to have woken up and have this difficult experience as a brand new mother and go through the suffering, as I would also be the one that would do something about it so other families don’t suffer the way we did. I turned the fire and anger within me into becoming a leading educator in the field of Holistic & Non-Toxic Cosmetics by pioneering Organic & Toxin Free Products into the Medical Aesthetics by opening the first holistic wellness green medi spa & healing center in the US recognized by Green America as a socially responsible Green company. I also begun teaching holistic wellness workshops nationally & internationally while also studying energy healing. After that, I begun created my full line of eco-conscious life style products that were organically made with natural preservatives and free from animal by products called Holeco Life. Then onto creating the first holistic wellness Eco-Beauty product & education for young pre-teen girls called Holeco Girls to educate them on the importance of inner Eco-Beauty and it’s relations to Eco-Living. Passion being the center of my focus, I released my first inspirational children’s memoir called “The Day I Became a Superhero” reminding children about the true power that resides within and begun the book tour on 11/1/11 while also still teaching & speaking nationally and internationally.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle was absolutely getting the banks to actually give me loan so I could open my holistic wellness center. I was turned down by 9 different banks and each time, my desire to open the 1st green medi spa & healing center in the US, was getting stronger and stronger. I knew I could do it. I could feel it and I was so passionate about educating others so they don’t have to suffer the way we did. When the last bank called to notify me that I wouldn’t qualify for the loan, I just begun sobbing and felt so hurt. I called my client to cancel my appointment with her as I just wanted be alone and felt devastated that my dream was crushed. She asked why I wanted to cancel, and I said “The bank turned me down again and I am feeling very sad”. She said,”Honi, I feel this is your lucky day because I always wanted to return a favor one day as someone helped me open my first store. I can give you the loan you need because I know you will do amazing things with that center”. I felt completely SHOCKED from what I had just heard. Suddenly, I felt the sparks in my heart again & I knew my new life had just begun where I will be changing my lives & I have been ever since then.

How did you get your very first clients?
This part was very easy. I had so many friends who LOVED the idea of a spa & most importantly, someone who was a board certified laser specialist doing all the fabulous laser treatments such as Laser Hair Removal, Laser Acne Treatments, Laser Vein Treatment, Laser Collagen Enhancement, Microdermabrasion and all the detox treatments. They could hardly wait to come in.

What keeps you motivated?
I believe in INSPIRATION as that is the language of inner LOVE. Thus, I am INSPIRED by the way the spirit speaks to me, guides me, shares wisdom with me giving me the strength to look beyond obstacles and making what’s impossible POSSIBLE. I am fearless so it’s easy to explore and discover new possibilities.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
TRUST your HEART. Listen to the way your heart is speaking to you. The answers are there as your heart is the access to the higher realm where you are always receiving guidance, direction and clarity. No one knows you better than you and your own HEART.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I LOVE LOVE LOVE being author, speaker, intuitive healer, holistic wellness eco-expert, spiritual mentor, modern meditation teacher and educator all as a guide for individuals to tap into their own life. This is my life’s purpose and I am honored to know why I am here on earth inspiring others being the true amazing beings that they are. I am humbled and feel deeply blessed that every day I get the amazing opportunity to serve in the way I do witnessing miracles unfolding in front of my eyes by individuals reconnecting to their own superpower.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
I honor and respect all businesses that begun with deep level of passion. What makes what I do special is the level of authenticity, integrity and pure LOVE that is experienced by anyone that crosses path with me in any of the services that I offer which completely empowers them to be their authentic true self, in the seat of their own power.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
My services are all focused on one’s true inner empowerment by investing in one’s well-being and not spending on ill-being. Well-Being has high vibration proven by science that when you are empowered, you are also more joyful, more peaceful, more thriving as well.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
WOW, there are countless number of testimonies on my website that can be viewed and I am so humbled by all of these powerful testimonies. The most powerful one I have to say is that when a little shy boy that had read my book came up to me and said “Mrs. Honi, you helped me realize that I am already a powerful SUPERHERO and I want to thank you.” I just started crying as I knew his life was changed forever.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
Lots of amazing activities. First, I am leading the powerful education on Nature’s Pearl Muscadine Seed for the DC, MD & VA area empowering others to empower themselves. Also, coming up are several powerful events such as “Dark Moon Goddess Meditation”, “Super Girls R Super Healthy Inside Out Workshop”, “Inner Light Meditation”, “Sacred Aromatherapy Mixology Workshop”, first ever ” Reconnecting Healing Retreat” in Annapolis MD, “Love Your Body Event, RED Moon Retreat inspired by RED Tent Movement in Every Neighborhood and the most amazing interview with Simran Singh, the founder of 11:11 Blog Talk Radio, 11:11 Magazine & 11:11 InnerView TV.

What tip would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
If you are an entrepreneur, integrate with other entrepreneurs and collaborate with other entrepreneurs that have the same value and vision. This strengthens both of your businesses and you can also have a lot of co-creative experiences along the way. Some of my closest best friends are my business associates that we continue to support each other’s businesses by referral and co-hosting, co-leading and collaborating on all sorts of activities.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
SUPERHONI Super Series

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I incorporate fun into all aspects of my life, that includes my business such as three hour lunches or dinners and many tea times at fabulous tea shops. My day begins with daily devotion to meditation and nourishing my body, mind and soul. Yoga is also my devoted practice that brings tremendous joy to my life. Playing with my son & husband by far is the most amount of JOY that I experience. We love biking and hiking as a family. I also make art out of recycled items collected after usage in our home. I also go on several retreats within the year to fully be by myself to allow and receive.

What are you most grateful for?
I am most Honored to have been given the gift of being a MOTHER in this life experience.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
That I assisted millions turn their obstacles into MIRACLES by tapping into their own Inner Light & SuperPower Within.

Spotlight on: Johari A. Barnes
Name of business: Distinctively Yours Event Management, LLC
What does your business do?: Assist individuals and organizations with the planning and coordination of special events.
Age of your business: 7 years
Website/Blog: http://www.DistinctivelyYoursEvents.com and http://DistinctivelyYoursEvents.blogspot.com
Twitter Handle: @DistYoursEvents
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DistinctivelyYoursEventMgt

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I love to host events. Planning an event and seeing it all come together is a wonderful feeling.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle was just deciding to launch. Family and friends, although they meant well, placed their fears at my feet will I was trying to decide. I overcame my fear by just jumping out there and making connections with the appropriate people in the industry that helped boost my confidence and encouraged me to give the event business a try. It has continued to keep me focused on my business and my goals.

How did you get your very first clients?
My first clients were through word of mouth.

What keeps you motivated?
I am motivated by the excitement that each completed event brings. The look on a client’s face when their event is all that they hoped and more makes this journey worth it.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Just keep at it even when it seems that things are not going the way you planned. All things happen for a reason so peaks and valleys are necessary.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I like parties and I am extremely organized so that bringing these two things together is why I do it. I love it because it fulfills these needs.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
My clients understand that value of having an event planner. They value the experience, the connects, and the experience.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
We take a clients dreams and desires and bring it to realty.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
It is not something that a client said but something they did. The client originally wanted to hire a big-name local celebrity wedding planner, but due to scheduling hired me instead. When I brought her into the room for her reception she starting crying. I was shocked thinking that something was extremely wrong. Instead the bride looked at me and said that it was more beautiful than she ever imagined. Her tears were of joy! A few years later the original planner was featured on TV hosting an event in the same venue when the bride called and requested that I watch the show. She said her wedding was way better than the one shown and she is glad that she went with us.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
We have a few new products in the mix but we are still trying to pin things down.

Success in your book is…?
Doing something you love

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
Be more than willing to help out a fellow planner or event professional you never know when you will need their help in return.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
I would never participate in a realty show so…

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I love to read and I am in the process of learning to ride my motorcycle.

What are you most grateful for?
I am most grateful for my daughter, my friends, and colleagues that enable me to do this.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
Memorable… Elegant… Inspiring…

 

Spotlight on: Jasmine Sky
Name of business: Island Bride Designs
What does your business do?: Design & hand paint custom silk beach wedding dresses
Age of your business: 11 years
Website/Blog: http://www.beachweddingbliss.com
Twitter Handle: @IslandBrideDesigns
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/islandbridedesigns

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
I’m in love with tropical island lifestyle. I’m in love with silk. I’m in love with color and I’m in love with making clothes that make me and anyone else feel gorgeous, empowered and 100% comfortable.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
Believe it or not, it was my block with painting and drawing. I had a huge urge to paint that I could not ignore but I had had a 3rd grade art teacher that had frozen my confidence and creativity with drawing and painting. I started by doing finger painting so that I didn’t have to be precise in the images that I drew. Then I realized that what was in the way was my judgement of myself. So I decided to give myself 1 rule and 1 rule only – no matter what came out of me, I was not allowed to judge it. This was incredibly healing and freeing. I have used this rule for 11 years and share it with people who ask me to teach them how to paint on silk. Essentially all any of us need is permission to create!

How did you get your very first clients?
I invited everyone I knew and their friends to a sale at my house.

What keeps you motivated?
The gorgeous environment of the Florida Keys is my CONSTANT inspiration. I am in awe of the beauty that surrounds me and each day that I wake up I breathe new inspiration from the bright tropical sun, brilliant blue skies and gorgeous flaura and fauna.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Don’t give up. Never say die. Learn from everything. Mistakes are your constant companion and best friends. They are your journey to ever increasing expansion and expression! I call them “happy accidents”.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I am an artist. It was the gift I was given. There is no other reason why I do what I do. I was born to be an artist. What I love about being an artist is that I get to break the rules! I get to play and be childlike all the time.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
There are two things that set me apart from other designers. One is that I hand paint the silk for the dresses I create. So each woman that comes to me can have her dress express exactly what she wants to express and gets a totally unique piece of art wear. The second thing that sets me apart is that the styles that I design are inspired by the wrap and tie versatility of a sarong, the indigenous dress of the tropics. What so cool about this is that it gives my styles what I call a “flexible fit” making them ultra flattering and perfect for selling long distance over the internet. The third thing that sets me apart is my individual style of painting. If I were to hire another silk artist to paint the silk the result would be totally different. This is the world of art – 2 artists can do the same thing with totally different results!

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
My business is all about helping my brides express their personality and uniqueness. There’s nothing like having a dress made for you just how you want it! it’s an INCREDIBLE experience and to have that experience for such a special occasion as your wedding is a real high.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
One bride shared with me that her groom was moved to tears when he saw her in her dress. Can you imagine what that would feel like if it happened to you? I consider this to be the highest of compliments – that her dress could express and show off her unique beauty so that it brought tears to her beloved’s eyes.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
What I have coming up next is YOUR custom designed dress for YOUR next tropical island vacation. I am not limited to working with brides. I help all women experience their unqiue beauty and express their inner tropical goddess with my hand painted silks. Treat yourself to this experience. You’ll never regret it.

Success in your book is…?
Success in my book is being able to experience my connection with Spirit on a moment to moment basis, and to be able to maintain an inner contentment no matter what my circumstances are. It is also to be financially independent from using my gifts to serve humanity.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
I’ll consider my industry to be fashion – You are most beautiful and radiant when you love and accept yourself just as you are and life from this place.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
YOUR DREAM DRESS

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I love to sing, dance, garden, sail and swim!!!

What are you most grateful for?
I am most grateful for all my trials and tribulations. They have always brought me closer to a deep and abiding happiness.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
When I die I want people to remember how I inspired them to connect with Spirit as it lives in their gifts and how I empowered them to be the most expanded and expanding version of themselves as possible.


Spotlight on: Janice Clark
Name of business: BizMSolutions
What does your business do?: We provide social media marketing strategies and ongoing virtual solutions for busy entrepreneurs.
Age of your business: 9 years
Website/Blog: http://www.bizmsolutions.com/blog
Twitter Handle: @Janice_Clark
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bizmsolutions

What inspired you to start your business?
I wanted to take control of my own future and earnings potential. I felt as though I had a very clear vision of how a business should operate with integrity and social responsibility. I wanted to put my thoughts into action so I started my own business.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
When I first started the business social media wasn’t in existence. I started out doing virtual assistant work. Marketing involved cold calling, knocking on doors, expensive PR and marketing, etc. It was tough!

How did you get your very first clients?
Some of my first clients were found through staffing agencies and online temp services.

What keeps you motivated?
The knowledge that I’m making a difference in the lives of lots of wonderful people.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Work hard, be persistent, believe in yourself and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t when you know that you can. Prepare yourself, invest in yourself and keep moving forward even when the going is slow. Don’t accept anything less than the results you want!

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I do this work because I get to make a difference. I help entrepreneurs market their businesses and get to that next step they so desperately need in order to start seeing a profit for their business. I also get to help many hard working women right here in the US who are struggling to build their businesses and take care of their families. I get the privilege of offering the work and pairing them up with some phenomenal entrepreneurs. It’s a win-win for everyone! It just makes me feel good.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
I live and work in the social media “trenches” every day. I write strategies and then stay with the client to implement those strategies and get results. I’m not selling theories or hype. I use many of the same strategies for myself that I recommend to my clients. I believe that shows when potential clients contact me. I never try to sell anyone. I just tell them the truth about what I might or might not be able to do for them.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
We handle a lot of the day to day tasks both general and technical that our clients need so they can focus on strategic planning for their own business. We help them create a great online presence and keep their social efforts moving forward so they can focus on what’s truly important to them. And of course I’m just a fun personality so most of my clients just enjoy spending a little one on one personal chat time with me! That’s fun for us both and ultimately is very productive as well!

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
People tell me all the time that I’m the reason they started using social media to begin with. I have some very successful clients who have told me that the online environment was confusing and frustrating until they met me. Now they are getting results and having fun. That makes me feel good!

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
I’m launching a brand new website later this year. I’ll be offering a series of on demand social media training for both entrepreneurs and virtual assistants. That’s still a few months away. For now I simply welcome business owners to connect with me on Facebook or Googlel+, introduce themselves and let us get to know each other. Some of my most profitable partnerships started with a simple “hello” online

Success in your book is…?
Living life on your own terms.

What is your favorite quote to live by?
“The question isn’t who is going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me.” ~Ayn Rand

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
LOL Hmmmmm, that’s a tough one. It would probably be called “Where is the World is Janice Clark”. People are constantly looking for me either in my office or on multiple social sites. Being in a social business, I’m connected online with my leads, clients, VAs, vendors, etc. People tend to email me, tweet me, Facebook me,etc. all at the same time hoping to reach me more quickly. Anytime I poke my head out on one of the networks I can’t escape the feeling that I know what that little gopher feels like in the “Whack a mole” game. LOL

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Play with my baby and my two little dogs.

What are you most grateful for?
I’m grateful for everything I’ve been given. I guess I’d have to say that I’m most grateful for my little girl. She’s such a blessing!

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I hope people remember me fondly as a strong Christian woman. I hope they remember me as a wonderful mother who raised a successful, fearless and humble Christian child. I hope to be remembered as someone who had a kind word for everyone and who made a positive impact on every individual she came into contact with. I hope someday to be fondly missed.


Spotlight on: Kerilyn Russo
Name of business: Married to a Chef/Permission Granted Coaching
What does your business do?: Support for Significant Others in the Restaurant Industry
Age of your business: One year! (Launched on Valentines Day!)
Website/Blog: http://www.marriedtoachef.com
Twitter Handle: @Married2aChef
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/marriedtoachef

What is it that you’re passionate about that made you want to start your business?
Everyone has to eat. It’s a basic human need. Because we have many choices of what to eat, the topic of who cooks for us, and where one cooks what we like to eat has become a VERY sexy and celebrity-like topic. What most people don’t know is that it’s NOT as sexy, being connected to someone in the restaurant industry, as one would think. There is a false perception that it’s as glamorous at home as it is on TV, being cooked for all the time, etc… Why would they be cooking for US, when their JOB is to cook for you? On Valentines Day/New Years Eve/Mothers Day no less…

There are PLENTY of websites discussing food, ingredients, restaurants and chefs/ sommeliers and restaurateurs, but no one discusses who is on the other end of that success. It takes a strong woman (or man, I know you’re out there!) to thrive in this type of relationship. For us, it is SO easy to slip into resentment, because they are typically not there when most of our life is happening, that it’s become my mission (and obsession) to assist my fellow other halves successfully move from where they are…to where they want to be, in both their restaurant relationships as well as in their own goals and dreams.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
When I originally had the idea for creating Married to a Chef, I was intending it to be a place that creating connection was my primary avenue of support. Creating get togethers and having a way to “chat” online. Months after having the idea, my company went bankrupt, and I decided to reconnect with my little girl dream and became a Life Coach. It has been a process to understand how to go beyond initially desiring creating connection to offering coaching services as my primary goal. I am still ‘in process’ of learning to authentically evolve to fulfill my own dreams and connect with my own life’s purpose.

How did you get your very first clients?
Because there was SUCH a need to give us Significant Others a voice, they came to me by way of my website. It’s my desire to be THEE person they turn to when they are ready to take action. My clients are women (so far, I know you men are out there!) who are ready to look inward in order to create great change in their life.

What keeps you motivated?
Knowing that I am helping SO many others find a ‘home base’ to come to when they feel lonely (because their restaurant man/woman is working 60-80 hours/week), being the sole caretaker, possibly dealing with drug/alcohol issues while also wondering what THEIR purpose is as well.
Hearing my clients voice when they recognize that I really do understand, what it’s like to be in their shoes and watch them as they take action instantly takes me back to my 6 year old dream of wanting to help others “feel heard”.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
1. Find an accountability partner! It’s SO easy to NOT do something when no one is checking in with you, making sure you do it. Life gets busy, we have our own baggage (as you so eloquently mentioned in your post) When we have someone else there, to hold us accountable, we move forward a LOT faster. And Yes, sometimes your accountability partner has to push you a bit.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I initially created this site to find support for myself. I do this because I know what it feels like to have NO ONE around me understand. There is this desperation, this starvation for someone… anyone to understand. I know when I connect with someone who can relate and wants to listen, to “see” me and also understands, I find myself MUCH more at ease in my life. I put it simply in something Oprah has said; she said that the universal message we are all looking for is “I hear you, I see you and you matter to me.” I totally concur with her on that.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
At this point, there are plenty of blogs – women sharing their own experiences in their restaurant relationships, but I have yet to find someone who wants to reach in and take their hand. I guess that makes me a trailblazer! Woo Hoo! With regard to what makes me different as a coach, there are SO many amazing coaches who are kicking butt and changing lives; I feel I am one among many. My focus in my coaching practice, called Permission Granted Coaching, is to learn how to give ourselves PERMISSION to live. Part of that process is to UN-learn the “should” messages (I should to that, you should do this), begin to learn the difference between the head and the heart messages, and give ourselves permission (possibly for the first time in our lives) to live from that energy.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
OOH, that’s an easy one. A major platform on what my practice is built on is asking the question about “How do you celebrate that?” Because we don’t give ourselves permission to do much in our lives (except what we feel we “have’ to) we definitely do not do anything that has to do with celebrating, and my goal is to shift our focus to creating celebration in our everyday lives. At first it’s something that most of us grimace at, “What? Celebrating? Huh?” but once they know I’m going to ask them how to celebrate that… I sense their excitement around it! It’s fun to see from my point of view.. you say “How do you celebrate that?” and their energy picks up… starts swirling around… it’s exciting!

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
Oh that’s easy too!!! And I quote one of my clients, “Enter Kerilyn. One part lion tamer, one part magician, one part cheer-leader, one part bestie, one part locksmith, all parts openhearted beauty.”

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
My recent focus has been about understanding what we VALUE, In May I’m creating a group coaching program to discuss how understanding our values can be the impetus for so much change in our lives.

Success in your book is…?
Well, can I be honest with you? I’m still learning just how much having a thriving coaching practice involves being a successful marketer. Success in my BUSINESS means having a constant flow into my pipeline… and the cherry on top would be to always have a short waiting list of those wanting to work with me. Success as a COACH means feeling the weight of resentment and the sense of being at a dead end LIFT from my clients lives. Watching them take action and changing the way they work within their restaurant relationships and in creating their OWN dreams.

What tip from your industry would you like to share with someone reading this profile?
You ready? The sooner you ‘get’ this… the better off you’ll be. It’s NOT about being a _____________(insert your business here) , it’s about learning how to be the best marketer for your business. I know… you’re probably thinking “But I didn’t go to school to be a marketer” I know.. neither did I. But I’m learning the more I market… the more interest I attract. No marketing, no attraction. Do whatever you have to do to reframe the way in which you saw yourself having a successful business and INCLUDE your number one goal to learn how to market.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
About me personally? I’ve always been inspired by volleyball player Gabrielle Reese’s book “Big Girl in the middle”- since I too, have stood out most of my life (Being 6’-1” and someone who can command a room), It would be a take on that… something like “Big Girl in a Big world” if only to CHALLENGE the stereotype of what being BIG means.

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Great question! My idea of a FUN day, is to nestle in (usually over a good meal) with those souls in my life who also have an obsession to discuss what makes this world tick. I actually have coined it “Swimming in the Deep End” (Shh, It’s what my autobiography is going to be called, don’t tell). I feel “so much myself” when I am “Swimming in the Deep End” with other Searchers, talking about faith, our dreams, our challenges…hours go by and I feel I could stay in that energy forever.

What are you most grateful for?
Oh gosh. Too much to list here so I’ll give you one thing – I’m SO grateful for whatever is driving me to keep going forward. Sometimes life is like an obstacle course, sometimes our full time job is to steer around those obstacles; somehow I have the inner strength and almost obsession to keep going…even when it gets exhausting. I don’t give up easily and I’m SO grateful for that.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want to be an EXAMPLE to the world that it is OKAY to be sensitive, to NOT KNOW, to be DRIVEN and EMOTIONAL, to NOT give up – even when we feel out of control…even when the outside doesn’t match the inside…I want to teach that it really IS all about you (and that’s OKAY!) … and ultimately, come from the place that we’re not as messed up as we think we are…deep down.

My dad always says… “Perfect only exists in the dictionary”. I couldn’t of said it better myself. My mission is to expose that Perfect does NOT exist… and to give ourselves PERMISSION to live from that knowing. *Hopefully sprinkling in some celebrating as well!


Spotlight on: Tracie Spriggs
Name of business: Honey Biscuits, Inc.
What does your business do?: Catering and Food Service Consulting
Age of your business: 7 years
Website/Blog: http://www.honey-biscuits.com

What inspired you to start your business?
What inspired me was the unavailability of quality food, and to give other food services businesses the availability to do the same.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
My biggest obstacle was not knowing the execution side of the business. I knew how to cook, but nothing else. To over come that obstacle in the quickest way, I had to surround myself with family that was able, and willing. Luckily for me, my husband had the commercial kitchen experience that I needed, and my daughter had the clerical experience that I needed.

How did you get your very first clients?
I got my very firsts client by planning a tasting. Each of my friends had to bring two potential clients. The day after the tasting, I got my first order.

What keeps you motivated?
I stay motivated because I know that am have not finished yet. I have so much more to do.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
The most important lesson that I have learned is, listen to your heart, talk and ask questions and most of all be consistent.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I love to stay busy. What I love most about my job is my ability to stay calm. I enjoy planning for an event. I will plan for days, I write every detail of the event down and when the event is over and everything went well, that is what I love.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
Honey Biscuits is unique because we help our competitors.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
As consultants we cut the red tape, we are what food service businesses need after writing their business plan.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
The most heartwarming thing a client has said to me is “Thank you for making my dream come true.”

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
We are in the process of moving into a bigger and better location where we will be able to do more consulting, training, and cooking classes.

Success in your book is…?
Success to me is making a difference.

What is your favorite quote to live by?
I have two favorite quotes: “A good friend is like a good bra-Hard to find, supportive, comfortable, always lifts you up, makes you look better, and always close to your heart.” and “The road to success is always under construction.” Both are anonymous.

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
My reality show would be called Organized Chaos

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I love to sit in the sun and read. I LOVE MY NOOK! I also love and good brick oven pizza and a glass of wine.

What are you most grateful for?
I am grateful for my husband, Cliff, and my daughter, Lauren, who have been a part of Honey Biscuits since day one and believed with me that we can make this happen. I’m also grateful for all of the great people that have wandered along my path and helped me to grow and become successful.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want to know that I did something to make a difference and someone recognized that, decided to pay it forward themselves.


Spotlight on: Sophia Leong
Name of business: Sophia Leong Advisors
What does your business do?: I provide entreprenistas with fabulous expertise on business decisions to maximize profitability!
Age of your business: Started in 2011
Website/Blog: http://www.sophialeong.com
Twitter Handle: @SLAdvisors
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/sladvisors

What inspired you to start your business?
A good friend of mine was starting a business and had no idea how to approach the financials. Being the numbers-nerd that I was, I offered to help her and that was the birth of my “ah-HAH!” moment!

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
FEAR. It is an ugly beast that disguises itself as the comfort of a 9-5 job. But hey, if there is any lesson to learn, the real fear and danger is relying on an employer’s whims on the rest of your life.

How did you get your very first clients?
Network, network, network! Once I started vocalizing my idea, there was an immediate surge of support. Someone you know, knows someone that will appreciate and benefit from your service!

What keeps you motivated?
The passion of my clients who are proactively making their dreams come true! I love hearing about other entreprenistas’ goals and knowing that I can help them get there financially.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Believe in the value of what you have to offer. Don’t short-sell yourself!

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I love helping other entreprenistas succeed– moreover, I love helping them understand concepts that made them shudder at first thought: finance and numbers!

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
When most people think of financial consultants, the first thing that comes to mind is a stodgey, ex-Senior Vice President from the male-dominated Wall Street spilling out financial advice based on his 20 years of experience. That’s not always the best advice. As entreprenistas, our ideas and visions are innovative, fresh, different. We can’t fit our unique business ideas into old, archaic business models. We need advice that can reach outside the box like our dreams. And that’s exactly what I do!

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
Finance is the very core of a business. When profitable, life is fabulous. When not, the stress is enough to kill a dream. Therefore, I take that stress away from my clients– I let them focus on doing what they do best, and I advise them to make the best decisions to keep the money coming in!

Success in your book is…?
Happiness, health, love, and Louboutins!

What is your favorite quote to live by?
“If your dreams don’t scare you, they’re not BIG ENOUGH!”

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
“The Fabulous Money Honey!”

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I am a hardcore fashion-obsessed foodie that loves to travel and hang out with my lovely pups, Chloe and Alfie!

What are you most grateful for?
The undying support from my family and friends.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want finance and success to be associated with females like never before! We need more Oprah Winfreys, Arianna Huffingtons, Coco Chanels, and Brownie Wise’s– successful females giving back to society.


Spotlight on: Veronica O. Davis
Name of business: Nspiregreen, LLC
What does your business do?: Environmental and sustainability consulting
Age of your business: 2 years
Website/Blog: http://www.nspiregreen.com
Twitter Handle: @NspireGreenLLC
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nspiregreenllc

What inspired you to start your business?
I wanted to work for a company who shared my core values and worked on projects that aligned my personal and professional interests. I realized the only want to do that was to start my own company.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge was getting over the fear of taking the financial risk of leaving a good paying job. My friend shared a quote by Martin Luther King Jr., “Faith is taking the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” I prayed for wisdom and the discernment. The fear of regret of not trying outweighed the fear of failing.

How did you get your very first clients?
Our first clients were from previous relationships or friends of friends. Do not overlook existing relationships, even if they aren’t in your industry. Make sure your friends have a general understanding of what your do. They are the best free marketing you can get because even if they don’t understand what you do they can speak to your character.

What keeps you motivated?
My business partner and I wrote a prosperity plan that outlines who we want to be in 2020. It’s only 1.5 pages, but it speaks to what drives us and our destiny as a company.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on
Women have a tendency to be passive aggressive when making requests. As a business owner you need to learn to be direct and tell people exactly what you want, especially when dealing with men. For example, if you want a meeting with someone, skip all the filler language. Ask for a meeting, how long you want to meet, and what you expect to accomplish by meeting.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
Our work combines are engineering backgrounds with social justice/grassroots community organizing. I love that it allows me to align my professional, personal, and community selves.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
We are unique in that most engineers are not people oriented. They focus on getting a job done. We bring the people element back into engineering.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
My clients like us because we understand their technical issue, in addition, to their challenges with the communities they impact.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
“Since you’ve been in the job we have had any complaints from the community. Thanks so much for caring.”

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
My business partner and I plan to take Nspiregreen LLC international this year.

Success in your book is…?
Being invited to have lunch with Oprah. In all seriousness, success if living a life in balance and by my own rules.

What is your favorite quote to live by?
“Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.” – Steve Jobs

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
My favorite past time is people watching. It’s amazing to walk how people interact with each other and how they use space. I also enjoy art galleries and karaoke. I’m an avid watcher of UFC, mixed martial arts.

What are you most grateful for?
I’m grateful for all the wonderful and supportive family and friends. There are days when I’m discouraged or ready to give up. My inner circle is there to help lift me up.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I joke that I want “She thought she could and she did” on my headstone.


Spotlight on: Janice Campbell, M.Ac., L.Ac., ADS
Name of business: Ancient Arts Wellness
What does your business do?: Ancient Arts Wellness is a center for healing the heart of downtown Baltimore and home to a variety of independent healing practitioners. Through my private practice, I provide acupuncture, qigong, & creative problem-solving to help you live your life more fully no matter what.
Age of your business: I have been treating patients for 8 years. AAW is 3 years old.
Website/Blog: http://www.ancientartswellness.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ancient-Arts-Wellness/106018199473250

What inspired you to start your business?
It is a long story that I haven’t really found a way of shortening. Suffice it to say, I am not a traditionally religious person and yet, I had an epiphany. I literally woke up one morning and said, “I’m going to acupuncture school.” It was like stepping into the Tao and letting it carry me along. I love what I do & it is what I am meant to do in this world. The wellness center is a natural extension of that – an inviting home for a community of like-minded practitioners.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
Self-confidence. I overcame it with experience & perseverance & a faith in what I do.

How did you get your very first clients?
Word of mouth, friends, referrals from key business owners, people I met out & about.

What keeps you motivated?
Truthfully, a desire to change the world for the better, for one person at a time. If I am on my game, I feel better at the end of the day than when I started – not just my patients.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
I never think about specifically being a “woman” business owner – or even a “business owner” per se. I believe my job is to create as much space as I can in the world for both community and change. Through that, my community of patients grows and I see miraculous changes happen for them. And I have to include myself in that community of care or none of it works.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
Because acupuncture makes sense to me in the same way the world made sense to me when I was very little. It is a creative, dynamic medicine. Each person is so deep and so wide, and the medicine is so deep and so wide, I will never be bored. It is a joy and an honor to help people live into their best selves every day – body, mind, & spirit.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
The patient / practitioner match is very important. It is a very personal medicine. I am told that I have the capacity to make people feel immediately at home, known and heard and my humor is appreciated. Having said that, I am not the practitioner for everybody. No one is. The important thing is to find someone with whom you have a good rapport & whom you trust. I have two favorite descriptions of me that I find amusing and oddly accurate. They are: “She is trenchant and real and her poetry is direct. If Love needed a surgeon dressed in a clown suit, it would be Janice.” AND “She’s like muesli. she’s good for you, it doesn’t bother her if you don’t like it, and sometimes you wish it were sugar coated.”

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
My cocktail party answer for what I do is that 1) I make grown-ups lie down and 2) I help them remember how to respond to life the way they did when they were small. Aside from relief of symptoms, the biggest response I get from patients is some version of “I feel more like myself.” I like to think of it as creating possibility for them to live into their best selves.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
Wow. That’s a tough one. As owner of Ancient Arts Wellness, my favorite comment, which I get a lot, is that the space is an oasis, as healing as the treatments. A retreat from the busy world outside. As an acupuncturist, I’m stumped for a minute. I get so much moving feedback from my patients so often. It’s hard to choose. A lot of my patients speak of very powerful shifts taking place in their bodies and in their lives because of treatment. The one that has made me tear up most recently, came from a patient who is very successful both personally & professionally. I’ve been treating her for several years, helping with physical and emotional challenges as well as general health maintenance. A couple of weeks ago, she told two other people in my presence, that I don’t know the effect I have on people. If it weren’t for me, she wouldn’t be where she is now. She would have given up. That was very powerful for me. She is someone I both like and admire. She is not one to gush about anything and she was notably moved as she was speaking. I am constantly amazed at the power of this medicine to change lives. Mine included.

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
Friday, March 23rd, 2012 from 6 to 8pm, we are hosting the opening for our new art exhibit at Ancient Arts Wellness. About every three months or so, we display the work of a new artist and have a gathering. It brings new energy into the space, gives an excuse for folks to drop by and visit, and I get to pretend I own some work that I really adore. The range of artists that we have had is huge – photographers, painters, printmakers, etc. I do my best to match the work to the season and since we’re heading toward the height of Spring – all about new growth and surprises… this time I have chosen the work of a young photographer named Deacon Gibbs. His work is colorful and expressive. And all of it is shot using a smart phone and manipulating the images with filters on the phone. Some of his pieces are very recognizable and others are big washes of color. They’re fun. And a portion of the profit from each piece that sells will be donated to City Neighbors Hamilton charter school. So, come on by, see some fun artwork, meet some interesting people, experience the space, and get to know the artist and some of the practitioners that work at Ancient Arts Wellness. I hope to see you there.

Success in your book is…?
Seeing my patients become masters of their own healing, having time to spend with my family and friends, and given current home projects – having 2 working bathrooms! Now, that would be the height of civilization.

What is your favorite quote to live by?
“Living is a thing you do. Now or never, which do you?” ~ Piet Hein

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
“Back To Life” – so many people are just existing. I feel that my job is to help people truly live well no matter where they are in the journey. Or maybe “Pantry of Dreams” – one of the many translations for one of my favorite acupuncture points. The characters for each point are very specific – they aren’t just meant to be beautiful. They truly speak to the character of the point and what it can bring forth in a person on all levels. I often think that another way to describe what I do is that I awaken poetry in people. It’s a wonderful job.

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Soak up the joy that it is to live with people I love, write both fiction and non-fiction, read, create music & art, learn new things – usually involving science, garden, meet interesting people, drink tea… things like that.

What are you most grateful for?
Aside from individuals, I’d have to say love & curiosity – in myself and others.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
The ripple effect of having helped more people live from who they truly are, doing what they truly love.


Spotlight on: Leigh Ann Lawrie
Name of business: Leigh’s Signature Touch
What does your business do?: Assist busy professionals in planning intimate events with/for their loved ones designed to strengthen and maintain those personal relationships.
Age of your business: 10 months
Website/Blog: http://www.LeighsSignatureTouch.com
Twitter Handle: @llawrie73
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LeighsSignatureTouch

What inspired you to start your business?
My previous position and experience as an Event Planner combined with my passions for helping individuals cultivate personal relationships, customizing event details to fit specific personalities, and hosting.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle is/has been reaching the target market that appreciates and has the expendable income to spend on luxury services that my business offers. I am constantly exploring different ways to reach this market.

How did you get your very first clients?
I have not had my first client yet.

What keeps you motivated?
The two things that keep me motivated is that I know once I have had the chance to service my first client, LST will take off from there and the second thing that motivates me is the uniqueness of my business concept.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
I think the most important lesson I’ve learned thus far is the importance of a strong support system that includes other women business owners.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I do the work I do because it allows me to bring out my creative side and that combined with my passions allows for me to make someone else happy once they have witnessed and experienced the finished product.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
The amount of customization/personalization given to each detail. Each person involved in experiencing the event has a part of their personality/likes/tastes incorporated into the event in some manner. My event isn’t just about one person (the host), it’s about everyone who may be considered an “attendee” otherwise. Some confuse my title and company with other “Event Planners” however, my company doesn’t simply “plan” an event for the host…we make the event about every person attending the event. Additionally, LST only works with intimate events. We do not handle events for more than 15 “attendees”.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
One major driving component of our business concept is CONVENIENCE. We offer all of the things to strengthen relationships, hence creating a better quality of life but we offer this as a convenience to our clients. Our motto is “You cherish the memories. We handle the details.” Our clients value, crave, NEED, and expect convenience in their lives. They are too busy to expect otherwise.

Success in your book is…?
In my book success is doing something that you love to wake up in the morning to, as well as achieving the goals/mission/vision that you set out to achieve.

What is your favorite quote to live by?
“Do onto others as you will have them do unto you.”

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
I’m not sure but it would be something that relates to how funny my life seems to be. My friends swear up and down that I am the funniest person that they have ever met and have brought them the most laughs out of anyone they have ever known. The laughs don’t come from me intentionally being funny but just the things that happen to me that do not seem to happen to anyone else or the things that I say, in all seriousness, but ends up making everyone laugh.

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Spend time with my closest friends.

What are you most grateful for?
My family and friends.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I want to leave the mark of having brought joy to people.


Spotlight on: Taneeka Strickland
Name of business: Panache Consulting Group, LLC
What does your business do?: Professional Image Consultations, Training and Development for individuals and organizations looking to merge personal style with professional appearance expectations.
Age of your business: 10 months
Website/Blog: http://www.panacheconsultinggroup.com
Twitter Handle: @PanacheCoGroup
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/panachecogroup

What inspired you to start your business?
It was the perfect marriage of my passion and experience. I have a personal passion for fashion and I have also been pretty successful in my career working with and for large organizations. I attribute that success not only to my ability to get the job done well but also to the fact that my image was consistent with the high standards I set for myself and the professional expectations set by my employers and clients.

I often witnessed very qualified people being passed over for promotions and other opportunities due to the fact that their image and the skills were inconsistent. I noticed that there was a gap in training for professionals that would teach them how to merge their personal style with what was expected from their employers. I am also very passionate about Branding. I believe that Image and Branding go hand in hand for Entrepreneurs, which in turn can influence opportunities. I created Panache Consulting Group as an innovative platform to bridge those gaps.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
My biggest obstacle was creating awareness. I found in the very beginning that people were more familiar with “Stylists” and therefore only associated an Image Consultant with Events, Celebrities, and Fashion Shows. They were not aware that their everyday image could be negatively impacting their success in their careers, their corporate identity, or their businesses.

I overcame that challenge by leveraging educational opportunities, and marketing my services one-to-one in networking environments where I was able to explain how their credibility and ultimately their brand could be negatively impacted by their image. After the correlation was made, I found that people became more interested in hearing about the services I provide.

How did you get your very first clients?
My very first corporate client actually came from a networking contact, and my first individual client was someone that I knew who saw my posts on Facebook!

What keeps you motivated?
My LOVE for what I do is what keeps me motivated. I feel that my business is a creative outlet and an outward expression of who I am and what I am most passionate about—fashion, inspiring confidence, and empowering people.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
The most important lesson I have learned is to take the time to find my own voice and not to apologize for doing what makes me happy. My advice to other women in business is to be passionate enough to get the experience, information, and training to become an expert at your craft. Be flexible enough to adjust when necessary, get a mentor/coach, but most of all be true to yourself.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
I do what I do because I love it enough to keep getting better. I love the fact that every day I can decide how to evolve to make my business better.

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
My business is unique because it’s authentic. Other image consultants and branding companies may offer similar services but what makes Panache different is that it is a firm that is driven by inspiration, information and aesthetics. It’s the perfect combination of fashion, passion, professional experience, excellence, and integrity.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
When you look good, you feel good, and you are more highly regarded. My individual clients leave with a better idea of how they can maximize their potential, look the part, and communicate their ambitions. My Corporate clients gain a better understanding of their internal marketing messages, defined expectations, and a third party to deliver those expectations to their employees in a non-threatening manner.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
“I wanted to send you a picture of what I was wearing this morning to see my boss, but I thought that would be too much.”

What do you have coming up that you want to tell the audience about?
I am hosting a seminar on Saturday, February 11, 2012 for women in business and women who are aspiring business owners to teach them how to maximize their image as an asset. It’s called “Leading with Lipstick” and it’s going to be fabulous!

Success in your book is…?
Happiness, Peace, Great Friends, Good Health, Faith, Family, Financial Freedom, and Fashion of course!

What is your favorite quote to live by?
“Believe in your daydreams…..” Dr. Myles Monroe

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
“Dream-Driven”

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Attend Church Services & Events, Volunteer, Read, Shop, Spend time with family and friends.

What are you most grateful for?
My Health, My Family, and true Friends.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
I would like to have inspired other dreamers to live by faith, be creative, tenacious, and professional no matter what they do or what dreams they pursue.


Spotlight on: Pam Specker & Diana “Z” Zdenek
Name of business: Fifi La Buzz
What does your business do?: We deliver the best in stylish party favors and gifts
Age of your business: 1 year
Website/Blog: http://www.fifilabuzz.com
Twitter Handle: @FifiLaBuzz
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/zjzRyH

What inspired you to start your business?
The possibility of growing a business with a long time friend and doing something we enjoy into our retirement.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
Understanding how to build a web-based business. We were very fortunate to have had some great resources at hand. Gary Zdenek, Diana’s husband, is a graphic designer and happily designed our website which very much conveyed the look and feel we were shooting for. Matt Cohen is our web programmer, Diana works with him on one of her volunteer groups. Matt coached us through the set-up, teaching us and coaching us through the first big learning curve, all while staying within our very small budget. We were fortunate that both Gary and Matt were so patient and understanding.

How did you get your very first clients?
Through e-blasts to family and friends.

Considering your journey, what’s the most important piece of advice you would give to an aspiring woman business owner/entrepreneur?
Complete a business plan and choose your strategic partners wisely. If we could offer another suggestion, take as many social media classes as possible prior to starting your business so that you fully understand what is key to making your business a success online.

What’s the best part about being in business for yourself?
The opportunities are endless. At the end of the day there is a lot of satisfaction to learning a new business and getting one step closer to success.

How does your business reflect who you are and what’s important to you?
Being a partnership, it reflects differently on each of us. We have received many compliments on the look and quality of our website, that is a true reflection of Diana and her attention to detail. And of course Gary, our in house graphic designer…everyone should have one. Our business is in an industry that truly reflects who Pam is–she is the consummate entertainer.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
By offering our clients affordable DIY party and wedding favors, we allow everyone , no matter the size of their budget, an opportunity to create their own, memorable event. An added plus is that whenever we mention our name to someone, it brings an automatic smile. Its fun!

What’s the most memorable thing a client has ever said to you?
“I especially appreciate your contacting the manufacturer to find out if they would make an exception for me before sending out the email to me… I will definitely go to fifilabuzz.com first the next time I’m shopping for party favors! I think it was smart customer service!”

Success in your book is…?
Growing our business with quality products and having fun while doing it. At the same time, make enough money to support each of us being able to quit our full-time jobs.

What is your favorite quote to live by?
“Thoughts become things, choose the good ones.”

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Pam: Been There, Done That (for all the different jobs Pam has held)
Diana: I Love My Dogs…Oh, and My Husband, Too.

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Pam: Travelling while on vacation
Diana: Spending time with my dogs, drinking wine on the porch with friends

Spotlight on: Louisa Leontiades
Name of business: Investment Impact, Ltd.
What does your business do?: A virtual pay as you go consultancy enabling flexible application of expertise for the sole trader and corporate alike.
Age of your business: 3 years
Website/Blog: http://www.investment-impact.com/news
Twitter Handle: @moneydecisions
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SocialNetworkConsultancy

What inspired you to start your business?
My indignancy at being forced away from my newborn daughter and back to the grindstone inspired me to start a crusade against the traditional 9-5 workplace.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
Building a virtual community of consultants who had never met and who were predominantly driven by self-interest. I designed a recruitment and retention accreditation game to inspire them, challenge them and get them talking to each other! It’s the first consultancy formed from game mechanics.

How did you get your very first clients?
Trials. The concept was and is so new, that it still has to be experienced to be believed.

What keeps you motivated?
Playing the game. Even though I designed it, I still have fun competing and collaborating with the other consultants!

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a woman business owner that you’d like to pass on?
Whether you’re right or whether you’re wrong, you’re the one who has to live with your decisions. So go with your own, not someone else’s.

Why do you do the work you do and what do you love most about it?
My work is changing the workplace for families and allowing them to create a better balance and healthier environment for bring up their children. How can anyone not love something that brings families together?

What makes your business unique from others in the same field?
There are some virtual contractor sites out there which do what they do very well. But they have little heart and passion about what they do. Theirs is not a mission to change the world but simply a functional service.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
Not only are we the most flexible (and therefore one of the cheapest) consultancies around, but the element of gamification creates a warming reward culture. Being predominantly virtual also means we are very green – clients like the feel good factor. They also like that all consultants are user accredited because qualifications mean less and less nowadays.

What’s the most memorable/heartwarming thing a client has ever said to you?
“I love the fact that the Investment Impact model is so current.” “Having it all” is something many of us ladies aspires to achieve by managing a successful career which fits into our family life.

Success in your book is…?
Being happy.

What is your favorite quote to live by?
“Happiness is the pursuit of excellence” ~ Aristotle

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
The Impact Game

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
I am either with my family or running the business. It’s a game, my passion and my livelihood.

What are you most grateful for?
My daughter and my as yet unborn son, due in March.

What mark do you want to leave on the world?
That challenging the status quo is always a valid position.

Spotlight on: Rachel DeAlto
Name of business: FlipMe
Age of your business: 3 years
Website/Blog: www.flipme.com
Twitter Handle: flipmeflirting
Facebook: www.facebook.com/flipme

What inspired you to start your business?
The true inspiration for FlipMe is the thousands of missed connections that happen everyday because people are too shy or uncomfortable with making the first move. Breaking the ice can be daunting, but we figured a flirty card with a fun saying could help relieve the pressure.

What was the biggest obstacle to launching your business and how did you overcome it?
The biggest obstacle was overcoming my own pessimism. I am a practical person by nature and I had a great job as an attorney before FlipMe launched. There were many moments leading up to the launch of the business where I thought I was crazy to take such a risk (quitting my job and going all in). I knew I had to do it when I couldn’t come up with a good enough reason not to. Now that I have been running the company full time for almost 2 years, I can’t imagine my life any other way.

How did you get your very first clients?
Press! We have been blessed with amazing press coverage since our launch. Approximately one month after our official launch we were featured in the Thursday Styles section of the New York Times. It was an amazing boost.

Considering your journey, what’s the most important piece of advice you would give to an aspiring woman business owner/entrepreneur?
Always trust your gut. Everyone (and I mean everyone) will have opinions about your business and how it should be run. It’s ok to take them all into consideration, but don’t feel obligated to actually act on all of their suggestions. Also, be careful of people who tell you what you want to hear just to get a check from you. I place a greater value on the opinions of people who have nothing to gain from me.

What’s the best part about being in business for yourself?
The freedom! I have never been big on “face time” and I tend to get a little ADD after too many hours in the office. Its nice to be able to leave for an afternoon and work remotely or at night.

How does your business reflect who you are and what’s important to you?
My company is sassy with a message that women should start going after what they want instead of accepting what they get. It is all me inside and out. Women should be sassy and ambitious in all areas of their life, including business and love.

How does your business make life easier/more fun/fulfilling, etc. for your clients?
It gives them a sense of empowerment and confidence. Women love to flirt but we allow them to do it in a safe environment. They can be a little more extroverted without the risk.

What’s the most memorable thing a client has ever said to you?
A woman once told me that she finally felt like she was sexy enough to flirt when she had our cards in her purse. Of course, she was sexy without the cards, but they made her feel more confident and in charge.

Success in your book is…?
Changing lives while paying the bills.

What is your favorite quote to live by?
Go big or go home!

If a reality show were being made about you, what would its title be?
Total Flirt

What do you do like to do for fun when you’re not running your business?
Sleep! Oh and read, I love a good book. My Kindle is well worn.