So I have an Internet Radio Show on BlogTalkRadio. I know that many of you are like, “What’s BlogTalk What?”
Here’s a short interview of the CEO Alan Levy on Fox Money describing BTR.
Enjoy!
Elaine of Her Big Idea has an Internet Radio Show on BlogTalkRadio and writes for Posh Mama Online Magazine and Social Network every Tuesday.
This week is going to be another great interview on BlogTalkRadio! Wednesday, I’m interviewing SmartMom Jewelry Co-Founder Amy. Smart Mom, LLC, in 2002 as a way to promote pretty and practical ideas for real Moms. Their first product line, Teething Bling pendants and bangles, has been an enormous success.
Check out the photo gallery of celeb moms and dads showing off their SmartMom bling. Included in this photo gallery is a pic of Sex and the City Star Chris Noth enjoying his Teething Bling!
They use only the highest-quality, phthalate-free, federally approved silicone in their Teething BlingTM line. The material is non-toxic, latex-free, food-safe and even dishwasher-friendly! It is the same silicone used in many other popular teething products.
You can listen to the live interview on BlogTalkRadio on Wednesday, June 11 at 11 a.m. Pacific / 2 p.m. Eastern. To join the live chatroom, go to BlogTalkRadio and get yourself a profile. You can also ask Amy a question by calling (646) 200-4281 during the live show.
And remember, archives of all of my Internet Radio Shows are available on either HerBigIdea.com or on BlogTalkRadio.
Check out PoshMama.com, for part two of how to spruce up your press release by using the Associated Press Styleguide. PoshMama.com is an Online Magazine and Social Network just for women.
Elaine of Her Big Idea has an Internet Radio Show on BlogTalkRadio and writes for Posh Mama Online Magazine and Social Network every Tuesday.
[audio:http://www.blogtalkradio.com/HerBigIdea/2008/06/11/show-011-interview-with-smart-mom-jewelry-owner-amy.mp3]
I came across Nicole and her business “Pink Loves Brown” and fell in love with her stationery designs and products. As I looked through Nicole’s websites and blog, I discovered this very hip businesswoman is a woman of many talents and would be perfect inspiration for my Featured Friday Segment on HerBigIdea.com.
Here is our interview, please enjoy!
1. Tell me a little bit about your business Pink Loves Brown.
I design stationery and other lovely goods. The business is run out of my home, in which I have a dedicated office and studio space. Everything I create is fun, colorful, graphic, and decidedly feminine!
2. From your website you sound like a woman of many talents. I love your website! It’s simple and understated. You designed your website, correct? How did you get started in web and graphic design?
Thank you! Yes, I designed my website. I’m self-taught. I’ve always been interested in art and math, and I’ve been playing around with coding web sites and doing graphic design since I was a teenager. I consider it fun – digging in to the code, learning new tricks, and producing something beautiful.
3. When did you get interested in selling stationery on your website Pink Love Brown?
I started my business in January 2005, and I think I created my website just a few months later. Since I do know web design, it felt like a natural extension to go ahead and create the site.
4. You recently attended the National Stationery Show, how was it and what did you learn?
It was a fantastic experience. I’ve done craft shows before (like the Renegade Craft Fair), but the National Stationery Show was just so much bigger. It felt incredible to be surrounded by so many talented designers, and to have my own 10×10 space with all of the products I’ve designed!
5. I love the color combination of pink and brown. How did you come up with the name Pink Loves Brown?
When I started my business, I was doing a lot of wedding invitations. Pink and brown are two of my favorite colors, and I liked the idea of “(blank) loves (blank)” because of the wedding aspect. I also wanted something that didn’t directly reference what I was making because I knew that I wanted to have some flexibility to expand into other areas.
6. What products you sell on Pink Loves Brown? And how can a person purchase them?
I create and sell cards, stationery, bookplates, pins, magnets, and pocket mirrors. Everything is available on the website, and we will be adding a listing of stores that will be carrying our goods soon!
7. When did you start your blog, Making it Lovely? What do you enjoy most about blogging?
I started blogging on Making it Lovely in February 2007. I love the sense of community that blogging has. It seems like we all ‘know’ each other, even though most of us have never met! It’s amazing. Each post is like the start of a new conversation.
8. You’re a very busy gal, with your businesses and advertising co-op, how do you find time for yourself, friends and family?
I don’t sleep! Ha. Actually, I’ve become more balanced than I used to be. I’ve spent days upon days working from the time I wake up until I go to sleep. Now I schedule less for myself during busy times with my shop. I only take new web and graphic design clients during the shop’s slower periods. I also try to take more breaks now and spend time away from the computer or the studio. Sometimes I have to force myself to go out instead of staying in and working more, even if it’s just to go for a walk or run errands. I need to get out at least once in a while to maintain my sanity!
9. What advice would you give a woman who wanted to start a business of her own?
Be prepared to put in a LOT of work, and make sure you’re working on something you love. When it comes time to put in the long hours and do the less fun tasks, you don’t want it to be for something you’re only so-so about!
10. You are part of an advertising co-op called Indie Finds. What exactly is Indie Finds and how did you get involved?
We came up with the idea a few years ago. It’s hard for small businesses to afford advertising in magazines and on big online sites, so we decided to band together. All of the businesses on Indie Finds are independently owned and operated, and most have a crafty/handmade aspect. By splitting the cost of a full page in a magazine between 15-20 spots, the ad becomes much more affordable. I handled the graphic design and created an instantly recognizable “Indie Finds” look for the ads. As we did more and more, people were able to spot our ads because of that look. The ads sent traffic to each business’ website and also to the main Indie Finds site. It was a pretty innovative idea, and we’re all pretty proud of it!
11. What are a few of your favorite websites?
I read so many blogs these days, so I’d have to say Google Reader is pretty fantastic. I like to catch up on some of my favorite bloggers, like Pancakes & French Fries, decor8, and This Young House.
12. Is there anything else you would like to add?
Thank you for having me!
Thank you Nicole for your insightful answers. Please Technorati and StumbleUpon Nicole’s online stationery shop, Pink Loves Brown and blog, Making it Lovely.
And remember to live your life to aspire and inspire with HerBigIdea.com.
Elaine of Her Big Idea has an Internet Radio Show on BlogTalkRadio and writes for Posh Mama Online Magazine and Social Network every Tuesday.
Be sure to listen to my live Internet Radio Show on BlogTalkRadio every Wednesday, 2 PM EDT / 11 AM PDT.
This week I’m chatting with VivaVogue eCards creators Tiffany and Jackie. Viva Vogue eCards are animated, fashionable, cool and funny cards that can be emailed to your best gal pal. The Listener dial-in number is (646) 200-4281. And sign up for a BlogTalkRadio profile and “Chat” with us to ask our guests a question!
Plus, find out who the winner of the RuffleButts.com Pink Embroidered Bloomer is. Good luck!
And check out my weekly article on Business Tip Tuesday featured on PoshMama.com. I talk about the basics principles of writing a press release. Next week on Business Tip Tuesday I will talk about press release formatting tips that will help make your press release look like it was written by a pro!
And remember to live your life to aspire and inspire with HerBigIdea.com.
Elaine of Her Big Idea, writes for Posh Mama Online Magazine and Social Network every Tuesday.
This week’s Featured Friday Female is Corline from the Etsy Store: The Mommy and Me Boutique.
I first met and discovered Corline’s amazing work when I first joined the Posh Mama Online Magazine and Social Network. Looking at her profile photo I noticed she was a bit older than the average Posh Mama. I was immediately intrigued so I went on to view Corline’s full profile. She is truely an inspiring woman!
The Mommy and Me Boutique’s specialty is beautiful handmade adult and toddler aprons. Some are updated and trendy, others are traditional. For each of her products Corline uses designer fabrics and ribbons. You can tell from her pictures that she takes pride in her sewing and workmanship.
Corline’s not only an online social networker and Etsy Store owner but she’s also a blogger too! Check out all Corline’s beautiful products at the Etsy Store: The Mommy and Me Boutique or read about her life and business on her Mommy and Me Boutique Blog.
Here is our question and answer session. I hope you are inspired as much as I was!
Tell me a little bit about yourself and your Etsy store?
I have been happily married for 50 years, have 2 grown sons, and 4 grandchildren. I am convinced that age is an “attitude”. As for myself, I think young, enjoy people of all ages and applaud the uniqueness and talent of each individual.
I enjoy working with designer fabrics and ribbons because of the quality of the fabrics, the designs, and the feel; I want the best for the customer.
When did you start sewing?
Actually, I did not start sewing until about 12 years ago. It started out making small Barbie size doll furniture (beds, chaise lounges, tea sets). I attended several craft shows, had great success and decided this was kind of fun. From there I moved to the larger size furniture which fit the American Girl Doll. I was fortunate to sell my doll beds in several children’s boutiques. This led to making American Girl Doll clothes for about 8 years and also sold them in boutiques.
One day while watching the Oprah Winfrey show, a lady was showing her new line of aprons. I thought, I can do that and maybe even a bit better, or at least as good! So, the aprons were born, sold them in boutiques and they have become my specialty. The first year I sold over 100 aprons. I was definitely encouraged and “on a roll!”
When did you open your Etsy store? And where else can someone you find your work?
The Etsy store was opened about 1 year ago. My aprons and 3 Piece Japanese Baby Footsie Sets are sold in a very lovely, upscale boutique in Yuba City, California.
What has been the most challenging part of creating an online presence?
The most challenging part of crating an online presence for me is being consistent in my presence and keeping up with new merchandise. It is a challenge just keeping up with the boutique sales.
Why did you start your blog and do you enjoy blogging?
There is a lot of emphasis in the Etsy forums about the necessity of having a blog. So, I thought, why not? I was not sure what a blog was all about but I find it fun to do and enjoy featuring other artists. It gives them support and exposure and allows me the opportunity of learning about a lot of talented artists.
What is your favorite piece or pieces you’ve created?
There is one particular hostess apron that I designed that I loved and kept it for myself. It is a black, a flocked dotted 5 tier nylon apron with black satin band and sash that can be tied in the back or in the front., It just make you feel happy, sassy, and ready for a great evening of entertaining.
What do your family and friends think of your online business?
My family and friends give me great encouragement and applaud me for my online endeavor. My husband and sons cheer me on and say “Way to go, Mom!”
What are some of your favorite websites for business or pleasure?
I try to keep up with Craft boom. They have a lot of good, practical information.
Also, I check in with the Etsy forums to see what is going on and what changes are taking place.
And of course, Posh Mom (PoshMama.com) … This is a unique, creative site and I admire how quickly it has grown and the entire staff of dedicated, talented young women who are behind it and work hard to create such a successful community.
Do you have any words of advice for anyone who is thinking about selling online?
I would encourage anyone who has something that they love doing to just plunge right in and do it! The details come later and you soon find where your focus has to be. Allow yourself to keep changing, embrace the mistakes, learn from them and keep moving forward. This is not an exact science and there is no concrete formula. Success follows passion!
Corline’s story is all about growing and the continual process of learning to keep up with the changing time. She is truly an inspiration. Please remember to visit Corline’s Etsy Store: The Mommy and Me Boutique and read her blog Mommy and Me Boutique Blog.
And remember to live your life to aspire and inspire with HerBigIdea.com.
Elaine of Her Big Idea, writes for Posh Mama Online Magazine and Social Network every Tuesday.
Today’s Friday Featured Female is Jennifer Tankersley from ListPlanIt.com. List Plan It is a wonderful web resource where members can access over 300 printable lists and planning pages in PDF format and save them on to their computer and use them to organize their busy lives. You can find grocery lists and menu planning, holiday and party planning, calendars and to do lists. It’s every list you need in one convenient place!
Tell me about your products on ListPlanIt.com.
Until recently, the main thing offered at ListPlanIt.com has been access to the more than 300 lists and planning pages available to members for either 3 or 12 month subscriptions. Just this week, however, ListPlanIt.com has launched a new line of ePlanners (like eBooks)! This way, someone looking for just one type of list, such as meal planning, will be able to focus on the topic of her choice. Each ePlanner can be purchased for just $4.95 and has between 10 and 25 lists and planning pages all of the same topic such as baby, financial, birthday, holiday, travel, and more.
What is the difference between a membership and ePlanners? And can you buy a list individually?
Memberships give you access to everything ListPlanIt.com has to offer – including the new pages that are frequently being created. No need to store anything on your hard drive (unless you want to). You can also type into the pages that can be accessed as a member. The lists in each ePlanner are downloaded to your computer and yours to keep forever. You can narrow the lists and planning pages that you need down to a certain topic instead of committing to the entire selection available at ListPlanIt.com.
How did you come up with the idea for your product?
I’ve always been a list maker, but found that motherhood took the art of listmaking to a whole new level. One night as I was preparing for bed, I was mentally making a list of all the lists I needed to make for the following day and thought it would be great if all I had to do was just print out a form and fill in my own information. Suddenly, the concept for ListPlanIt.com was born! I sat right down and made a list of list ideas and in 30 minutes had over 500 pages that I would like to make.
When did you start your blog and why?
I reserved a blog back in September, but found little motivation to get started even though I kept reading how great a blog could be for your business. In January, the format of the Top 10 style of lists hit me and suddenly List Mama Blog was born. I was worried that blogging would take up too much of my already precious time, but I love it! I enjoy the opportunity to look for topics that would be meaningful to both myself and to my readers. Being a mom certainly has a plethora of interesting topics.
How do you come up with the lists you on your site?
Basically, if I need it myself, then there is a list for it. There are a few pages that I created for people that I would never use, but mostly I encounter a scenario where I think, “It sure would be nice to have a list (or record or journal or log or timetable) for that!” and then I make it. I love the creative part of it!
What list or lists do you use most in your every day life?
My most frequently used lists are the Grocery List, Menu Planner, Daily Planner, Weekly Planner, Monthly Cleaning Schedule, Contact pages (address book), Newsletter Lineup, Goals and Achievements, almost all of the Financial pages in the Finance section, and since I have 3 children, I am very often printing pages for birthday/holiday planning.
What does the future hold for ListPlanIt.com?
I hope to begin to work with professional life coaches and organizers. Lists can really help people gain control of their lives once they learn to prioritize. I am also hoping to eventually put the lists and planning pages into print form and sell as a kind of workbook.
What are some of your favorite websites for business and pleasure?
Oh, there are so many out there! I LOVE Allrecipes.com, Amazon, Cafemom.com, BlogCatalog.com, ConstantContact.com, Craigslist.org.
Is there any advice you would like to give someone who is thinking about starting a business?
Yes, pick something that you can really stand behind and feel passionate about. I have had so many business ideas in my life, but not until this one came along did I really feel like I could make a go of it. Because I love the concept of ListPlanIt.com, I can throw myself wholeheartedly into developing, promoting, and maintaining the business. It takes a LOT of work! I had the misunderstanding that a website would be easy and that after I created the content, I could jut sit back and watch people flock. I have learned that that was wrong. It takes a lot of time and energy, just like any business. Thankfully, I LOVE it! It is difficult to pry me from my computer during the day. Since I have 3 young children, I don’t get to spend as much time with it as I would like to, but I certainly work as often as I have the chance.
Check out Jennifer’s Blog at : List Mama Blog: Lists of Lists for List-Lovin’ Mamas
Enter to win a ListPlanIt Yearly Membership
ListPlanIt.com is offering a special contest to HerBigIdea’s readers and listeners. Enter to win a chance to win a yearly membership to ListPlanIt.com (retail value $29.95). As a member, you will have access to over 300 lists and planning pages such as grocery lists, menu planning pages, birthday/holiday planning pages, to do lists, calendars, packing lists, and so much more.
To enter:
1. Go to the ListPlanIt website and find three (3) lists you could use in your everyday life.
2. Write a comment in this blog post saying which three lists you would use in your everyday life.
Rules:
1. You must be at least 18 years of age to enter.
2. One entry per person.
3. All entries must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Pacific on May 29, 2008.
Until next week. Remember to live your life to aspire and inspire with HerBigIdea.com.
Elaine of Her Big Idea, writes for Posh Mama Online Magazine and Social Network every Tuesday.
Don’t miss a live interview with Johanna, managing director of Neat Baby, LLC and the inventor of the Wupzey Highchair Food Catcher. Johanna created the high chair food catcher to be lightweight, compact and durable. It easily attaches and detaches to a highchair.
Also on the podcast you will hear music from an up-and-coming artist, Ingrid Michaelson with her song “The Way I Am.” You’ll find yourself humming this catchy tune throughout the day. Go Amazon.com to purchase her CD or download her MP3!
You can listen to HerBigIdea live every Wednesday at 2 pm EDT / 11 am PDT. And don’t forget, you can call into the show and ask our guest a question by dialing the call-in Number: (646) 200-4281. We also have a “chat room” available to ask questions. Please go to HerBigIdea on BlogTalkRadio.
And don’t miss Friday’s Featured Female, Jennifer Tankersley, owner of ListPlanIt.com and the blogger on the List Mama Blog. Jennifer is an amazing woman who has created and compiled dozens and dozens of lists, put them all in one place for you to download to your computer and organize your life. We will have a special giveaway announced on Friday, so don’t miss out!
And remember to live your life to inspire and aspire with HerBigIdea.com!
Elaine of Her Big Idea, writes for Posh Mama Online Magazine and Social Network every Tuesday.
Today’s Featured Friday Female is Deb DiSalvo of Artistic Flair. The amazingly creative Deb makes beautifully crafted fused glass artwork pieces.
Here is our Q&A session:
How did you get started working with fused glass?
I actually started out making beaded jewelry about 10 years ago and did various art shows selling my work. About 4 years ago, I started taking ceramic classes that led me to coming up with my own line of ceramic jewelry pendants. I soon purchased my own kiln and was producing all my ceramic pieces from home. Fusing glass always peaked my interest and I took a fused glass pendant class. Once I realized that I could fuse glass in my own kiln, my creativeness took off. The possibilities with fusing glass are endless, and this is what intrigues me the most . Although I still like using clay and making ceramic jewelry, my focus right now is on making my fused glass artwork.
When did you open your etsy store?
I opened my Etsy store in January of this year. I needed another means of getting my glass artwork out to the public.
Besides etsy, where else do you sell your work?
I do various art shows in the Columbus and surrounding areas and also do home parties.
When did you start your blog? And why did you start it?
I actually started my blog a couple months ago. I honestly didn’t know that much about blogging until joining Etsy. While chatting with other sellers through the Etsy forums, it seemed that lots of people talked about their blog. I didn’t get the hype. After looking into it and getting some great tips from a fellow Etsy seller and blogger, Timothy Adam (Timothy Adam Designs), who provides tips about getting traffic to your blog, among other great resources, I gave it a go and I must say, I really enjoy it! My blog is primarily about my artwork and my most recent creations. In a nutshell, if I can get people to my blog, I can get them to my Etsy shop, and thus, make a sale (or at least give me some great comments and/or advice about my business).
What type of marketing/promotions have you found works well with your product and store?
Through blogging, I found several networks that I love and joined their groups (i.e., Divaprenuer, Posh Mama, Indiepublic, to name a few). I have gotten great response and ideas, especially from lots of women who stay at home, like myself, and are trying to promote their business as well. I have to say, its a lot harder than I thought when I started selling my things on Etsy. I literally thought my items would “fly off the shelves” within minutes from listing them (oh…if it were that simple). I had NO idea that you have to network and get your name out there, make contacts with people, and really promote your business through the Internet! There are so many people doing this – you have to find what makes your product different and unique and then sell, sell, sell. Its been interesting and I’m learning every day.
How do you balance family and business?
Oh, you’re supposed to balance them?? I must have forgotten to read that in the “family handbook.” LOL! Actually, that’s a hard one. Since “going cyber” I have been on the computer. A LOT! I am married and have a 5-yr. old son and coming up with my creations, making my artwork, promoting on the Internet. AND spending quality time with the family. yeah, its tough. My house doesn’t get cleaned all that often!!! I have a magnet on my refrigerator that says, “I’m creative..you can’t expect me to be neat too!” So, I try and do my promoting and artwork while my son’s in preschool and when my husband gets home from work. Or, when my son’s off watching Star Wars or Spongebob Squarepants – thank god for TV! I don’t pretend to be the super mom – I’m lucky enough to have a husband who knows how “crazed” I can get when I’m involved with one of my pieces and he lets me do my thing!
Do you have a favorite piece?
Yes, its actually my “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” piece – a re-creation of Audrey Hepburn in her famous pose in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. I love her – what a true diva!
What is your creative process when creating a new piece?
My inspiration truly comes from people, places and things that I am passionate about and I like to express my ideas through fun and colorful designs that are a reflection of me. I also love when I get the challenge to make a custom piece for someone. I like to research an idea, find out what the buyer’s interests are, get a feel for exactly what they want and BAM. I’m off and running. I get excited making new things from other people’s suggestions – my Breakfast at Tiffany’s piece was also someone else’s idea that came to life! My whole creative process starts with an idea.
What does the future hold for Artistic Flair?
The future – god, I can hardly even think what I’m doing an hour from now..I really like to stay in the moment and appreciate what I have. Although it would be nice to make it big in the art world and to be rich and famous from my art pieces, there’s always more work with that and right now this is fun for me. I would not want my art to be something I did not look forward to.
Do you have any tips or words of advice for people looking to start an etsy store or other new business?
Just what I said before about really promoting your product as much as you can through other networks, blogging, joining lots of groups that have your same interests and to hang in there – a sale will come! I may have not made a ton of sales yet, but I’m meeting some fascinating people and have been receiving some great feedback. Its all a learning experience.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
My favorite motto is “Do what you love. Love what you do.” Isn’t that what it’s all about?
If you are interested in Deb’s fused glass work, please check out her blog or etsy store.
Remember to live your life to aspire and inspire with HerBigIdea.com!
Do you know when person blogs about your product? How about when a news service picks up your blog? Or, are you looking for an easier way to keep up with the latest celebrity gossip? Then Google Alerts are for you!
Google Alerts are email updates of the latest and greatest Google search results conveniently sent to your inbox. Google’s computers scour the web, news, blogs, video and groups with your search topic of choice then send you an email when there’s been a keyword match.
Here’s how to get started with Google Alerts:
Go to: http://www.google.com/alerts
Enter your search termsYou want to be very specific with your search terms so you’re not reading through tons of junk mail. I use the terms: “her big idea” with quotation marks to keep the phrase together and herbigidea, one word so if my website URL is mentioned, Google Alerts will pick it up.
Enter the type of web search you would like? “web”, “news”, “blogs”, “video”, “groups” or “comprehensive” to search all types.
How often would you like your Google Alert emails? Once a day, as-it-happens or once a week.
Enter your email address.
Click the “Create Alert” button.
An email will be sent to your inbox confirming your alert.
Click on the link to confirm.
Google Alert emails will automatically be sent to your email inbox at the frequency you choose.
If you’re not happy with the search terms you’ve imputed, that’s okay, Google Alerts are easily managed by going to http://www.google.com/alerts, then click on link that says “mangage your alerts.”
Google Alerts are a great tool, however you use it!
And remember to live your life to inspire and aspire with HerBigIdea.com.
From BlogTalkRadio’s Blog: http://blog.blogtalkradio.com/ Check it out!
Career Advice, Entrepreneurs and Generating Business on BlogTalkRadio
This Saturday is chock full of career advice, entrepreneur discussions and marketing tips from your BlogTalkRadio hosts.
At 1pm ET, Words Cause Radio airs “Womentrepreneurs Part 2: Women Generating Business Opportunity Out of Thin Air and Having Fun Too” as Dean and Jared continue their series on women entrepreneurs including discussions with several extraordinary women: the founder of DanceHelp.com, the creator of three different businesses that are all focused on fun, and the coach of last year’s 2nd place team at the US Open of Swing Dance! Be sure to check out Part 1.
Then at 2:30pm ET, HelpIwant tackles the tough topic of making career and personal transitions – resetting your life’s path. Facing personal and professional realities which are sometimes forced upon us by external events can be daunting if not approached with a plan or some forethought. Deborah Bailey is a career coach and special guest who will provide her insights.
Remember, if you’ve missed one of these shows, they are archived so you can listen anytime that is convienient to you! And don’t for get to tune into my BlogTalkRadio show, Her Big Idea, on a special day: Monday, April 28 at 2 pm Eastern / 11 am Pacific.
