Kelly Wearstler's new book Rhapsody is coming soon from fabulous publishing house Rizzoli. For those who can't get enough of K-dub's eye-catching style, this book will serve to show you her favorite shopping spots, recent projects, her creative process and go behind the scenes in her studio as well as her life. The book drops October 23. Stay tuned to Venti Cup for a review of what promises to be a design book you'll want to add to your collection.
September 07, 2012
Coming Soon: Rhapsody
Kelly Wearstler's new book Rhapsody is coming soon from fabulous publishing house Rizzoli. For those who can't get enough of K-dub's eye-catching style, this book will serve to show you her favorite shopping spots, recent projects, her creative process and go behind the scenes in her studio as well as her life. The book drops October 23. Stay tuned to Venti Cup for a review of what promises to be a design book you'll want to add to your collection.
January 08, 2012
Pet Beds for Fashion Forward Fido
Frankly, I haven't seen many advancements in the pet bed industry. I've seen better looking pillows and more plush fabrics used for those "domes" we all see... but nothing previously on the market was upscale enough to place next to your high end home furnishings.
I'm happy to say that I now stand corrected. On my desk is a lovely book of sample photography and information on designer Katherine Elizabeth's Pet Design Furniture. She calls it furniture because, quite frankly, it is furniture for your home that happens to accommodate dear Fido. This is no simple plump pillow with a bolster surround that you place on the floor of your laundry room. These are elevated, custom finished pieces made of wood strong enough to support up to 200lbs of puppy love. These oval-shaped creations are crafted of a double wall of bendable wood elevated, mounted on a solid wood base over turned wood legs. Each piece is easily handsome enough to earn a space in your stylish living room. So good looking, in fact, that it'd be a shame to hide it in a back room.
Beds can be built to your specifications. Each one goes through a minimum of a 12 hour construction and finishing process. You'll choose your wood finish, your upholstery and may even opt for additional customization. Pillows and bedding are non-toxic and organic (as we've come to expect) and the unique Kapok filler makes the bed uniquely buoyant. Why does that matter? It offers your precious pet special skeletal support and comfort for muscular conditions as well as allergies. (Kapok fiber is also particularly water and mold resistant, great for those of us obsessed with clean!)
Check out Elizabeth's twitter feed and Facebook page to see some amazing hand-painted options. This is ideal for those of you looking for an even more unique piece (as I believe many clients at this end of the design range will be). There are really remarkable creations.
Designers, there is info here on opening a wholesale account. I can say with certainty that your clients will be happy with quality options like these. Shopping your yourself? You may purchase them directly by getting in touch with KE Pet Designs or visiting one of these lovely stores. A portion of all sales go to The Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), whose mission is to provide care and dignity to homeless pets while finding them loving homes.
December 14, 2011
Design: The Third Layer
I just uncovered a charming interview with the newest member of Team Zoe (no, not adorably dressed little Skylar), Jeremiah Brent.
During the last Bravo season of the show, Brent was introduced as a new stylist. To say it took him a while to gain footing is an understatement. True, at an operation like Rachel Zoe Inc, there's no time to learn the ropes. You must somehow magically come in at your top performing level and require little to no assistance or guidance.
Sound unreasonable? yes, but in small companies like hers (and any currently am or have been a part of) that's just how it is. Jump in with both feet, both arms and swim like a fish... or you'll quickly find yourself cast aside. It's just how lean operations work.
In Jeremiah's case, he was attempting to break into a new field. He's an interior designer at heart and by experience. Is there some crossover between chandeliers and chandelier earrings? Yes... but Team Zoe operates at a higher echelon than simply taking a fitting room job at Bergdorf Goodman. There are careers at stake, reputations at hand and carefully handled professional relationships at risk.
In the end, his true calling in interiors won him a seat at the glossy white Zoe table. He masterfully decorated Rachel's private home (with an incomprehensible two week time limit), created a posh haven for baby Skylar with little or no direction and ultimately sealed the deal with his concept for the brand's store-in-store spaces within Bloomingdales.
I love that Roger and Rachel found a way to leverage Jeremiah's true gifts. He's been designing spaces since he was a child. He shares in the interview that his true talent lies in his ability to create that often missed "third layer" of a space. The elements of an office, bedroom or boutique that take it from pretty to personal. Truthfully, this is the trickiest part of design to master, and for him to recognize this as one of his sharpest skills is very self-aware of him.
So I ask... what is your prized skill? What makes your talents different from the next person?
November 24, 2011
Saks Appeal
Saks seduces us into reading their new blog Saks POV by showcasing none other than Tom Ford. Smart move. We'll certainly be reading the blog and their interview with the provocateur himself. Another good read is their post on unforgettable dresses. Spoiler alert: it's as much about the woman wearing the dress as it is the dress itself. An important lesson to learn before the season of fabulous fetes truly begins.
September 22, 2011
The Wonderful World of Wearstler
Now that we K-Dub fans have caught our collective breath I can showcase some of my favorite pieces from her brand new site. Yes, Kelly Wearstler, polarizing design celebrity, is now selling her goods directly to consumers through her own site. I have to say... go Kelly! I love that she's doing this. More importantly, she is offering accessories and an impressive little collection of RTW as well. Most silhouettes are easy, breezy, flowy shapes. Great if you have Wearstler's stilt-like legs. For petite princesses like myself, this fitted black mini Chevron Dress is the key to sophistication. Add a conversation starting bracelet and snag a piece of jewelry for your home and - viola! - you've entered the wonderful world of Wearstler. Let it be known that I approve.
July 11, 2011
Mellon Drops
Although it's against my brain wiring to want to "be" anyone else, there are certain persons for whom I might bend those rules a bit just to see how it felt to be them for a day. Take Tamara Mellon for a moment. Where to we begin? Legs for miles, a head for business, head of a famed Jimmy Choo empire, a shoe collection every girl dreams of (after all, if it's missing from her shoe wardrobe she simply designs it and - voila! - it appears in the product lineup and invariably in her closet. And then there's the matter of her NYC apartment. I can't stop gawking over it. More importantly, she's powerful, fun woman with a social calendar build to actually put those glamorous things to use.
Fortunately for me, an out of body experience isn't necessary. With a little focus I too can build a Choo Choo train of shoes to line my closet walls. And I can certainly recreate a few elements from her swanky Manhattan pad and equally swanky lifestyle.
First, there's the matter of that light fixture in her living room. Do you see it? I can't take my eyes from it. I love it. I need it. I want it. Right over my desk. Jewelry for the ceiling. It is nothing short of hot.It seems to be a George Kovacs fixture, although it is remarkably similar to this Janice Minor fixture as well. Regardless: it is mine. And that gets me one step closer to lifting some of her swanky style.
And since I'm in "King Midas" mode, loving every gold thing in sight,we might as well head on over to 1stDibs.com and see what else I can find to get me felling Mellon-y. These Maison Jansen nesting tables ought to do it. But since Tamara has a predeliction for wild things, I suspect this ram's head coffee table would be a fron runner in her shopping spree. After all, her enviable desk is made from a brass ram's head base - and it is to die for. But let's focus on the piece de resistance... her iconic white tufted leather sofa. Id you're really going for her look, it's a must. This one from 1stDibs should do nicely.
Add in a dash of apple green, sequins and towering heels and you've got the perfect Mellon Drop cocktail. Stay tuned as we stalk more celebrity homes and choose some of the key elements of style necessary to recreate those look. Ciao, bella!
Photos of Tamara's apartment procured from Accidental Chic, Velvet Moss and Harpers Bazaar.
April 11, 2011
Show Me Your Dallas, Kyle Knight
I doubled the fun last week with two nearly back to back Show Me Your Dallas outings. Wednesday fellow entrepreneur Kyle Knight and I finally had the opportunity to meet. We've been bumping into each other a lot online recently and once I realized she was in town I knew we had to connect. Something told me we had quite a bit in common. My instincts were spot on, as the outgoing blond was my perfect companion and a certainly knew her territory.
Kyle authors the design blog Knight Moves. She will tell you she's all interiors and no fashion - don't believe her. This stylish Texan knows how to rock her heels and skinny white jeans on a hot spring day and was privy to Jason Wu's appearance at Neiman Marcus the next day (have I mentioned how much I love this city?). Her love of style carries over into her passion interiors. For proof catch this lovely photo tour of her home on La Dolce Vita blog. As we introduced ourselves and connected the dots in our lives, it was clear we were up for a fun great morning.
Her agenda? Two fantastic shops that were worlds apart - physically and aesthetically. First up: Ceylon et Cie, a shop overflowing with eclectic style. Owned by lauded interior designer Michelle Nussbaumer, every square inch of this Design District boutique offers a new visual adventure. Michelle is something of a phenomenon. She's been in every shelter publication you can imagine and is consistently ranked amongst the top designers in the field. She was out that day, but her team was incredibly helpful in making us feel welcome and informed. We were delighted to fawn over samples of her new textile line. Our universal favorite was an ikat-inspired fabric with a golden shimmery finish. When the light hit it just right it offered a remarkable gilded finish. Dreamy - and certainly one to bookmark for future projects.
"Boutique" might not be the right for Ceylon et Cie, as that implies small size. The shop is actually fairly large and is comprised of many rooms. Just when you feel you've covered it all you realize there's yet another series of vignettes to admire. Each one with it's own story and and style. It is impossible to pigeon hole her taste, other than to say it encompasses the full spectrum of style from every era and destination imaginable.
Proprietor Michelle's global travels reveal themselves everywhere. Fabrics stacked on a chest were surely sourced at some far-flung bazaar. Architectural objects scattered about radiated ancient European elegance. Between the exotic touches and thrilling patterns were moments of pure minimal elegance. A personal favorite were lovely glass and metal tables Kyle and I both loved. In the midst of it all what I wanted to see most was the passport book(s) it surely takes to create such a marvelous inventory. All beautufully displayed and thoughtfully grouped. This is an absolute MUST on anyone's Dallas trip.
Antiques, exotic imports, furnishings, jewelry and objects of Michelle's own design rounded out this sunny, lovely store. The perfect start to our day and a "must see" if you're visiting. While there, be sure to examine her beautiful Rock Candy collection, a series of lamps and glamorous boxes sure to add shimmer and shine to your home.
After hopping in our cars and cruising across town we landed at WIlliam-Christopher Design, the storefront of residential design dynamos W. Tyson Burks and Christopher Ridolfi. Christopher was our incredibly gracious host the day we visited. Can I just say, I LOVED this shop. It is housed in a bright airy space with natural light streaming in through sheer planels. For a moment you're sure you've been transported to Southern California - always a good thing.
My mind had fully absorbed the visual splendor of our previous stop, so I was delighted to see that William-Christopher merchandises with a more Spartan hand. It was a bit of a Goldilocks situation. Not too little or too much on display: it was just right. The sound of our heels walking on the hardwood floors gave you the feeling you were at a stylish friend's home for a milling about. That congenial feeling was much attributed to the amiable Christopher, who couldn't have been more generous with his time.
The overall vibe was an interesting blend of natural materials, plus a hint of the exotic mixed with an ever so slight Mid-Century edge. Clean, raw, intriguing. I liked it. I liked it a lot. Spattered about the shop were custom pieces, one-of-a-kind antiques and a nice array of new pillows, lamps, light fixtures and candles. The mélange surely makes William-Christopher an indespensible resource for the city's design elite. I was particularly smitten with the Balinese daybed and those dreamy candles in clusters about the store. I absolutely loved this store and can't wait to return.
As we left, Kyle and I were each treated to one of the candles we'd been admiring. Christopher, you absolutely nailed my home olfactory preference, as this "Copper Canyon" candle from luxe brand Burn Voyage makes my knees buckle. Hallelujah! Thank you so much. See you soon, as I'll absolutely be back for a few more!
Another successful outing, and another fabulous new girlfriend. Kyle, love you, doll! Looking forward to our next get together. Thanks again for showing me your Dallas!
April 02, 2011
Life's Little Treasures
As I surfed blogs this morning, leading here, there, down this rabbit hole and into the next I stumbled upon Kelly Wearstler's My Vibe, My Life. Hello, happiness. This shot say everything you need to know. It's the full integration of her life. Work & play. Glamour & grime (notice the heels and fabulous bracelet, thankyouverymuch). Family & business. It very much epitomizes my life. I hope this brings a bit of cheer to your Saturday and encourages you. Don't be afraid to mix it up. Don't focus on being so compartmentalized. It's your life. And if it's one incredibly over-blended hard-to-explain-to-family-and-friends-exactly-what-you-do kind of life - you're better for it. I do what I love and it enriches me. Dream it, do it. Don't fill up so much time in between wondering how any why and when.
Life is passing, baby, and you better jump in and get a bit messy. Have more fun. Stop limiting yourself with imaginary (yes, imaginary) boundaries and rules and barriers. They are anathema to creativity and true passionate success. LIVE YOUR LIFE the way you dream of living it. If you're waiting for permission from someone it will never happen. Your mission today? Go play! (thank you, DS for the link!)
March 27, 2011
Show Me Your Dallas, Beth Dotolo
Continuing my journey deeper into the Dallas design community, I spent Friday morning with the lovely Beth Dotolo of Hello, Splendor. Instantly I was struck by her relaxed, easygoing vibe. But don't mistake her ease for lack of interest. Like most of my designer friends, she's lazer focused, well-informed and manages to balance her left-brain/right-brain traits with aplomb. Love a girl who can dish shoes as easily as she can dole out info on the legalities of being licensed to design in Texas.
Our first stop was the Garden Cafe tucked away in the East Dallas neighborhood of Junius Heights. Had it not been for my Google map, I'd have passed this sleepy little street. Once inside I knew with certainty that the lack of fanfare is by design: it's a special place the locals hope to keep to themselves. Beth and I dined on a beautiful outdoor patio overlooking the very garden that provided so many of the ingredients on our plates. Over our delicious meal we touched on the current state of design blogs, the merits of the NCIDQ and the differences of various Dallas neighbrohoods. I've no idea how long we stayed after our plates were cleared, but it was great to share a bite with another designer with so many of the same thoughts and opinions.
It's easy to see why D Magazine ranks her as one of the city's top designers. She and fellow registered designer Carolina Gentry run Pulp Design. Together they carefully craft incredibly stylish spaces. Rooms that have an inviting quality much like Beth's personality. They ask you to sit back, relax and live in the moment. What a terrific quality in our rush-rush/go-go world.
Her special blend of powerful-creative-force-meets-new-mom came full circle as we stepped next door to the adorable children's boutique, Little Bean. This incredible little boutique is a wonder in an of itself. Owner Christine Visneau expresses her stylish point of view with thoughtfully chosen items, personally sewn apparel (yes, a special line of Little Bean apparel resides amidst other impossibly hip brands) and imaginative local artwork on the walls. It is as much children's boutique as it is art gallery.
The true beauty of the shop, however is on the wall behind the register. Just behind Christine's counter is a massive collection of kid-created art that would melt even the coldest of hearts. Seriously, there's enough Crayola and construction paper back there to start up a craft store. Cutest thing ever. I'm not sure if they were drawn by her two children or were given to her by the children of loyal customers, but it added even more warmth to this already special little boutique. I'll have to ask Christine the story on my next stop into the shop.
Speaking of next time... looking forward to getting together again with my new designer friend at the Cafe (what can we say, the food is insanely good and we both love breakfast. Win-win!) so we can introduce our little ones to one another. Something tells me that morning won't be quite as chill as this one, but I suspect we'll find quite a bit to amuse us.
Stay tuned for more in the series! Next week: Elaine Williamson & Tonia of Chic Modern Vintage.
(By the way, Beth - you are totally right. Kim Catrall should absolutely play you in a movie!)
March 26, 2011
Show Me Your Dallas, Emily Johnston (Part II)
{Part II of my excursion with Emily Johnston of EJ Interiors}
One we'd finished stargazing at Leslie Taylor, Emily and I dug deeper into her hidden Dallas. This is where her knowledge and passion really came through. Emily's secret source of design goodies require you to hunt. First stop: White Elephand Antiques. I'd heard of it, but I'm not normally the antiquing kind of girl. That might be changing....
A good friend of hers owns Gypsy Soul Interiors. As we entered White Elephant and turner right, there was this amazing boot (technically two booths) that blew you away. Overscale paintings, fantastic chairs, a Greek key table (seriously, someone needs to go purchase that table TODAY) and a nicely chosen group of other items rounded out the scene. This wasn't at all like my previous forays into antiquing. These were carefully curated items dying to be snatched up and seen in a new light. Yes, the chairs could use reupholstering, and maybe the table would look even better with a mirrored top (Emily's brilliant idea) but it really gave me an insight into her design ethos. This is no off the rack designer, clearly she's willing to shop smart and find the perfect item for each and every project. No wonder her portfolio is littered with glowing reviews - she earns those accolades.
Next we popped over to Found, a shop my hairdresser had clued me into (hi, Daniel!) a week or so ago. It's one of a pair that are cleverly named Lost and Found. Isn't that cute? We only made it into Found on Wednesday - but my wallet is grateful. Found is truly a wondrous place. They are trade friendly (meaning professional designers are offered a discount with proper credentials) and sure to be a regular stop on my trips into the district. I had a particularly difficult time leaving behind a Neiman Marcus pop-up book.
We did finally make it back to Again & Again - which was such a lovely place that I'll save it for another post. Emily - thank you so much for such a marvelous morning and for your incredible peek at insider's Dallas. I knew there were hidden gems around the corner and you certainly proved me right. What a treasure trove of design goodness.
Stay tuned for more of this journey of Dallas through the eyes of local designers and aficionados (or perhaps I ought to call them aficionadas?). There's much more to come, as I spent yesterday morning on a laughter filled excursion with one of Dallas's top 10 interior designers Beth Dotolo. Stay tuned for more!
March 25, 2011
Next Stop: StellaDallas
After a fun breakfast with Beth Dotolo I popped into StellaDallas. It's the kind of shop you pass constantly, as it faces busy Lover's Lane. The catch is, you have to time it just right to snag a parking space. Today was my lucky day, and I was greeted by owner Amber Davidson.
This little gem of a shop is a goldmine of wonderful things. Vintage tables sit alongside luxurious John Robshaw pillows and scarves (fresh arrivals, by the way). Carefully chosen items from Missoni and Russel + Hazel are just a few of the brands you'll find in this colorful little shop. Honestly, it's a shame it tool me this long to pull in and check it out. The entire back of the store is brimming with gorgeous paper goods (cards, journals, notebooks etc) and so beautifully merchandised you can't help but touch it all.
The front two thirds of the shop is the real showstopper though. One of a kind cabinets and art sit alongside colorful linens. A bank of pillows line one of the side walls. Murano glass chandeliers and vintage fixtures dangle overhead. And I haven't even touched upon the sofas, beds and tables that pepper the scene. (Shhh...Don't tell anyone, but this is THE place for pretty lamps guaranteed to add a fresh look to any room.)
The entire store is colorful in a jewelbox kind of way - but it's all so touchable and approachable. Read more about Amber's fabulous shop and be sure to swing by next time you're in town. 4346 Lovers Ln. Dallas, Texas. 214-691-0000. ShopStellaDallas.com
March 06, 2011
Show Me Your Dallas
Since the move last fall, I've been slowly but surely discovering incredible areas throughout my new city. Truth be told, the "good stuff" isn't usually in a guidebook. Smart locals save that for themselves. Who can blame them? But I consider myself a local now, or at least a girl who plans to make Dallas her permanent home. So I want to know it all. I want to see it all. I want to experience it all.
Rather than spend a year or two in search of all that secret coolness throughout the Big D, I've decided to enlist the assistance of local experts. These are bloggers, designers and fun girls you already know and love. I've asked them to do one simple thing, "Show me your Dallas." This can be a tucked away fashion boutique, a legendary landmark or a simple taco stand down the street. It can be anything they wish.
It's my quest to discover more of the uniquely local places that are authentically "insider" Dallas. After all, this is their version of this great city and I want to empower them with the freedom to enlighten me. The ultimate goal is to get together, enjoy a little girl bonding and showcase some of the city's hidden gems along the way.
Stay tuned!
{image via ToryBurch.com}
December 24, 2010
Venti Girl Gift Guide: The Provider
He'd give you the sun, moon and stars if he could (and in many ways he has). Make this holiday special with the first in a long line of custom business shirts from bespoke clothier J. Hilburn. Designed specifically to fit his broad shoulders and bulging biceps (there's a reason athletes flock to this brand) and exacting tastes, it will soon become the only brand he'll wear. Custom pleats, collars and buttons are all part of this truly personalized apparel experience. Much like your beau, there's nothing average or off-the-rack about this fine line of menswear. It is just the fine craftsmanship and attention to detail he's applied to his business for years. While he's off building his commercial empire you'll be building his wardrobe, one fabulous french cuff at a time.
November 01, 2010
Emerging Minds
If you're an avid trendwatcher, you've no doubt noticed the vast East is innovating like we've never seen before. Truth be told, we are all innovators and always have been. But shifting economies and the globalization of technology and access to information has generated a truly global marketplace. There's a cool report out that shows the top 50 inventions and ideas by our friends in locales such as Malaysia, China, Mexico, Turkey, Brazil and beyond. Some are quirly, but others will soon be household brands. Feeling out of the loop? Sign up for regular scoop on what's new in the world at Trendwatching.com.
May 03, 2010
'Tis Far Better To Give Than To Receive
It's well before noon on Monday in most parts of the globe, but here's a cheers to Connie Limoncelli of Sogni e Sorrisi for winning the Love Me Knot Mother's Day giveaway. I can't wait to see which artwork combination you choose.
In addition to being a delightful commenter, Connie is a generous soul. Her blog (the title of which translates to Dreams and Smiles) is filled with amazing giveaways, thoughful insights on design and a clear appreciation for beautiful creations. It is, in fact, packed with dreams and smiles. It's always nice when someone you adore wins a prize. Connie, congratulations and thank you for your continued support of my blog. Grazie!
Pssst... there's still time to win one more prize! Check out the Love & Luck Giveaway. You have until tomorrow at midnight to drop a comment for a chance to win an amazng prize pack of greeting cards from boutique firm Love & Luck. It doesn't get more creative than these beautiful cards designed by a powerfully creative duo. With a little love & luck, you might be the winner! Happy Monday everyone!
{top image via the Daily Green}
December 15, 2009
Whatever Lola Wants...
August 12, 2009
Shark Attack
Months ago Card Sharks got my attention. Their cards are edgy, cool, colorful and...well, just different. I can't quite put my finger on what makes these so unique, but they serve as evidence that creativity in our culture is alive and well.
It is my great pleasure to announce to you that they are partnering with Life in a Sippy Cup for a truly incredible giveaway. Two lucky winners will win a box of their wonderfully clever cards. One happy contestant will win a set of Little Beasties and the other proud reader will run off with a set of Animal Alphabet cards.
Swing by Sippy Cup to enter! {At this point I must confess that I'm a wee bit sad I can't enter myself. These are just so impossibly cute!}
Also...Stay tuned for an upcoming interview with the creative minds at play behind the designs.
April 21, 2009
Franki Loves Pink Loves Brown
It just seemed cute to me that Nicole Balch of Making it Lovely and Pink Loves Brown is on maternity leave. This is exactly why it's wonderful to run your own business. You simply take off when you need to do so. In the meantime, enjoy her adorable designs. I'm typically lean more towards full on glam, but these are just too sweet to go unseen.
If she's new to you, sign up to be notified when Pink Loves Brown is back in action.
April 08, 2009
Entrepreneur of the Day: Rick Jesse of Wall Glamour
If you follow me on Twitter you know I love my UK creatives. There are throngs of endlessly brilliant Brits online, some of whom have become quite good friends. One of my favorites is Rick of Wall Glamour, Interior Wall Art.
Like Blik and a variety of other companies, Wall Glamour creates unique, adhesive designs for the wall. But what I love about Rick's company is that they stay away from traditional or overdone designs. No matter how hard you look, you won't find a chandelier decal in their catalogue - but you will find light bulbs. A tongue-in-cheek twist on the trend. Ahhh, those crazy Brits!
Without further adieu, here's the interview...
Continue reading "Entrepreneur of the Day: Rick Jesse of Wall Glamour" »
February 03, 2009
Entrepreneur of the Day: Tamre Sutphen of Shi Shu Baby
Next up, Tamre Sutphen. We "met" on Twitter (like so many others coming up). And as I enter this post I realize that the first two self-starters sell baby products, but that's not going to be the theme of that series. But what that does tell you, is that there is always room in the market for a product that fills a void. And often (very often) new moms discover that what they are looking for either doesn't exist or is difficult or impossible to obtain.
Without further adieu, I will let Tamra of Shi Shu Style share her tale from idea to reality...
Continue reading "Entrepreneur of the Day: Tamre Sutphen of Shi Shu Baby" »
January 30, 2009
Entrepreneur of the Day: Heather Nolte of Glamajama
As a new mom, I can absolutely relate to the story that unfolds below. For the most part, fashion for children is ..well, it's not a pleasant sight. Some of us feel compelled to go one step further and take matters into our own hands. Heather Nolte of Glamajama is such a person.
I hope you enjoy her story and tune back in to read many others in this brief series on amazing entrepreneurs changing the landscape and not taking "no" for an answer.
Most successful small businesses begin because you realized you couldn't find what you were looking for on the market. This seems to be the case with you as well. What's the back story?
As a 25 year old first time mom, my world changed overnight with the birth of my son. I had been working at an investment firm and knew I couldn’t go back to working 50 hour weeks without him. I just couldn’t go that long without hugging and kissing on him!
Over the next couple of months, I brainstormed ways to satisfy both my personal goals of being a good mom and my professional goals of feeling like a success in business; in other words, "have my cake and eat it too". Nothing seemed to be the right fit so I busied myself with caring for my newborn and more domestic endeavors like re-decorating the house and sewing up special pieces for my little "Rock Star". I had been desperate to find unique and creative clothes for him that showcased his personality and that were easy care. When I couldn't find what I was looking for at the boutiques, I took the "do it yourself" approach and designed my own clothes for him.
A couple of months later, I had my "a-ha!" moment. Strolling around town with my little one dressed in his mommy-made tee, I was approached by other moms wanting to know where they could buy the shirt. A-ha! The perfect fit was right there all along and I didn't even realize it. With my newfound direction, I sat down and drew upon my creative experiences growing up in a crafty household, business lessons learned from a career in investments, and finally a healthy dose of patience derived from my many years working at a psychiatric treatment home. The result was the business plan for Glamajama and the birth of a lifestyle brand of glam-studded fashions for baby, toddlers, women, and even doggies.
So... how did it go from being just an idea to a thriving business? How did you start getting word out about your products?
The best marketing tool I had was my son. I’d make sure he was wearing one of my creations as I went to the grocery store, playground, salon, etc. I put together a very simple website (VERY simple) and gave the website address to the people who seemed interested. Soon I was asked which stores carried the line. I would then ask them, “which store should carry the line?” After hearing the suggestions I mustered up the courage to show up at a local store and asked for a meeting with the buyer. That just about ended the dream right then and there!
With my heart on my sleeve and butterflies in my stomach, I broke into my best sales pitch. About 60 seconds later she started texting on her phone, talking to her employees, and then at one point called her Mom on the phone. I offered to stop and come back when she had more time. Her response? “No, you’re fine I don’t mind.” I was humiliated and tried to fight back my tears.
I managed to get through the ordeal and kept smiling long enough to hand her my sales sheet and business card. Needless to say, I had a couple glasses of wine that night! I had a major “gut check” the next morning and wondered if I should keep going. I mean, I had no clue what I was doing…just an idea and a dream.
As I was sitting there feeling sorry for myself, the fax machine rang. In came an order for $1,000 worth of merchandise for the store. They needed it ASAP. They wanted to have it on display for a media party they were having in two weeks. I about passed out! I called immediately to thank her for the order. Her response, “Yea, I knew I wanted the line the second I saw it….but I figured you needed the practice so I just let you keep going.” Oh. That was a big lesson for me…most of the time the person holding you back is “you”. I swore to never let that happen again-no more second guessing myself!
Can you pinpoint one amazing breakthrough moment? (Um... besides Oprah!!!)
Besides Oprah…Okay, okay, let’s see. We’ve had a lot of moments…probably one of the more memorable ones was when I reached out to Lisa Rinna. I had met her husband, Harry Hamlin, at a Golden Globes swag party. I say “met”, but it probably was a little more like “grabbed”. Anyway, I told him that I knew how much Lisa enjoyed being a Mom and asked him if he could give her one of our “mommy” tees for me. He posed for a picture and agreed. I didn’t really think anything would come of it, but hey-I tried!
A couple days later my phone was ringing off the hook, Lisa Rinna was wearing the shirt on Entertainment Tonight. I couldn’t believe it -and it didn’t end there. She wore it on Access Hollywood and during her practice on “Dancing with the Stars” all that same week. She also bought some to put in her two stores in California. It was a complete whirlwind.
About a week later Harry Hamlin ended up calling me on my cell phone one night telling me he couldn’t believe how well the clothes were selling. They always saw a spike in sales when Lisa wore our clothes on TV, but were shocked that sales were still growing steadily a week later. He wanted to make sure I could keep up with the demand. It was pretty amazing! I kept his number just so I could reminisce a little every now and then. Almost three years later, Lisa still stocks the line at her store, Belle Gray.
I know firsthand that running a business can be both thrilling and trying. What keeps you going? What's the best part? What do you thrive on?
Yes, it can be hard. Especially when things are hectic and I feel like I’m being impatient with the kids. The trial and error of finding your personal work/life balance is always the hardest part. I think it took me almost two years before I finally figured out what worked best for both the family and the business.
Even now I still I have my moments when I wonder, “Why am I working this hard?” That’s usually when I have to remind myself that I am my own boss. I canto take a day off. After a day or two spent doing nothing but spoiling my three kids, I’m usually back good as new. All the hard work is worth it in the end. I think the best part is that there is always a new adventure. Each and every day is different and full of unique opportunities. I thrive on seizing those opportunities.
And finally... a little shameless self promotion is good for the soul. What's next on the horizon? Any news you can share? :)
Honestly, my biggest goal for 2009 is to just have more fun with the brand. I’m really loving the whole social media phenomena and interacting more with our “Glamajama Moms”. I’m active on on Twitter and just launched our Facebook page. I’d love to get some tweets from everyone and be sure to friend us on Facebook!
We’ve also updated our newsletter to include more glam friendly articles and a special “Glamajama Mom of the Month” feature. The Mom of the Month receives one of signature “mommy” tees and a $100 gift certificate to boot. To sign up all you have to do is join our Facebook page.
January 22, 2009
Winners Make Their Own Luck
If you've read long enough, you know that I study self-made successes. The only way to master anything is to learn more about it. And I genuinely believe that if you study successful people, that you too can be (and will be) successful. Study shoes, and you'll have a closet full of them. Study how money is made, and you will find yourself with a healthy bank account (and more shoes! How 'bout them apples?).
Say what you will about him, but Sir Richard Branson is an absolute inspiration for me. He thinks it. He dreams it. He does it. He succeeds at it. That is the Branson way. If you need a kick in the pants this year to get motivated, pick up his first book. I pretty much read it in one night, I was so enthralled by his adventurous tale.
So why am I telling you this again? Because I'm going to run a brief series of posts on entrepreneurs I've met online. These are people who demanded more out of life, reached out to achieve it on their own, and know a thing or two about making it happen on their terms. These are the people I gravitate towards. And I'd like you to learn more about what makes them tick.
Keep your eyes peeled, people. It's coming! In the meantime, don't take no for an answer!
Authored by designer Franki Durbin.
Your stylish guide for living a glamorous, adventurous life.
Get in touch | About me
Your stylish guide for living a glamorous, adventurous life.
Get in touch | About me
