Chic Gems Gal: Danielle Bobish of Curtain Up Events

Danielle is wearing the Chic Gems Couture Pearl Flower Necklace in Smoke

Chic Gems Gal Profile:

Meet Danielle Bobish, Owner of Curtain Up Events

Curtain Up events is the brainchild of Danielle Bobish, who discovered that her own professional theater background was the perfect training ground for planning large affairs.

To learn more, visit Danielle's website or blog.

All the best,

Sarah Radford

CEO/Designer

Chic Gems Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

The T-Shirt to Prove It, by Sherry Sexton, a Story about 25 Women Entreprenuers

I am pleased to announce that my friend Sherry Sexton has launched her book,

The T-Shirt to Prove it!

I have had the pleasure of knowing Sherry since January 2010. She was one of the first people I met when I moved to Tampa from Chicago. From the moment I met Sherry, I knew she was going to BIG places. She is someone who will always go the extra mile and genuinely cares about her clients and friends. As an Entrepreneur, I loved the concept of Sherry's book from the moment I heard about it. She has some outstanding stories of amazing women.

Click here to meet these 25 women!

I have had a sneak peak at her book and will soon have my own (autographed) copy!

Here are Sherry's own words about why she wrote this book:

"My purpose in writing this book was to inspire other women by sharing the challenges, adversities, and success of other amazing women entrepreneurs. So if you have ever dreamt of owning your own business but for some reason, never took the leap of faith or if you are a woman entrepreneur who would love additional support in any stage of business-affirming that you are not alone, this is the book for you! If that small voice inside your head keeps saying, "If only I could..." or "Someday I would love to..." then this book will motivate you to take action and live the life you have imagined."

~Sherry Sexton, author of The T-shirt to Prove it!

Sherry's book is now available on Amazon.com.

Be sure to get your copy today!

Click here to visit Sherry's website.

All the best,

Sarah Radford

CEO/Designer

Chic Gems Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Chic Gems Gal Profile: Meet Sherry Sexton of Imagine Coaching

Chic Gems Gals Profile
Meet Sherry Sexton, Owner of Imagine Coaching

Sherry is modeling the Chic Gems Triple Floating Pearl Necklace and the Glamour Pearl Earrings in Bronze.

Photography by Angela Sackett, Owner of Loving Legacy Photography

Be Chic at Work with Jewelry by Chic Gems

My name is Sarah Radford and I am the Founder and Designer of Chic Gems Jewelry

Above: Sarah Radford of Chic Gems

Our beautiful Chic Gems Model....Looking amazing for a day at the office.

I began Chic Gems as a side project in 2002, while working in medical sales in Chicago.

I thought suits were boring without the appropriate accessories, hence a trip to the bead shop after learning first hand from my aunt how to construct these fantastic, head turning pieces...

A little background...

I have always had a love for fashion since I was a very young girl. Showing off my newest dress at pre-school is one of my earliest memories, in addition to playing "stylist" for my Barbies.

Over the years, I have worked with major retailers such as Express, Judith Rikpa Jewelry, and BCBG Max Azria.

I always loved fashion, but thought I needed a more serious career. I took a detour from my love of fashion and spent almost 6 years in medical sales.

I eventually got back to my passion-FASHION!

I experienced a corporate shake-up in 2006 that propelled me onto the path of entrepreneurship. Naturally I pursued my love of accessories AND fashion.

I design my collection based on several key points:

1. Everyday Style

2. Practicality

3. Affordability

4. Eye catching statement pieces

My conclusion:

I believe you should choose jewelry that compliments your personal style. if you like conservative clothing, go with traditional jewelry such as pearls and crystals. If you like to look fashion forward choose one of my couture pieces to spice up your new outfit.

I believe that my collection, Chic Gems, offers the perfect accessory that transitions from a day at the office to a night on the town.

As a special for reading my blog, enjoy 20% off any order at Chic Gems (online only) by using the code BLOGGER at checkout. Offer expires 5/30/10.

You may also call me at 888.801.8265 to place your order by phone.

Thank you for reading!

Have a fashionable day!

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

CEO/Designer

Chic Gems Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Photo Credits:

Jewelry by Chic Gems

Wardrobe provided by Malabar Collection

Photography by Ken Stachnik

Styling by Ruben Lopez and Brandy Flint

Make-up by Cynthia Chea and Jessica Rodriguez

Hair by Miguel Martinez

Chic Gems Gal Profile: Marti Goyal of Aniko Salon and Spa

Chic Gems Gal Profile:

Marti Goyal

Owner of Aniko Salon & Spa

Chicago, IL

Visit Aniko Salon & Spa Online

Marti Goyal-Wearing Chic Gems Couture Layered Pearl & Quartz Necklace



Marti Goyal

Hey Chic Gem Gals~

I’d like to introduce to you, my friend and fellow entrepreneur, Marti Goyal.

Marti is the owner of a fantastic salon called Aniko Salon & Spa located in Chicago’s South Loop area. Allow me tell you a little bit about her and why her business is so great! Marti was brought up in an entrepreneurial environment and from a young age had a passion for following in her mother’s footsteps and starting her own business. She is inspired by bringing out the best in others and furthering growth in her. As an entrepreneur she has a natural passion for giving back to the community and neighborhood and inspiring others to do their best.

Prior to establishing Aniko Salon, Marti held a position of Director of Marketing with impressive clients such as PepsiCo, Blockbuster, Texas Rangers, Frito Lay, Brinker International, The Houston Texans and many more Fortune 500 companies.

Aniko Salon and Spa was opened in November 2007 when Marti was only 24. Aniko Salon offers unique amenities and exceptional guest services. Aniko Salon has been recognized as #1 Salon and Spa in the South Loop by Best of Yelp.com 2009, Top 5 Salon and Spa's in Chicago, Best of Citysearch 2008 for Haute Haircut, The RedEye, Time Out Chicago, Michigan Avenue Magazine, Yelp.com, The Local Tourist, Style Chicago, NBC Street Team, Metromix, NBC Chicago, Telemundo, Insider Pages, CRAVE Chicago, Salon Today, City Woman Chicago, Suburban Woman North Shore, PoorLittleRichGirls.com, Chicago3Media, The Examiner, Allure, Glamour, Shape, and Daily Candy.

Marti was recently featured in the October 2009 Issue of Salon Today Magazine-click here to view and will be featured in the book CRAVE Chicago, an urban girl’s guide to all that you CRAVE, celebrating stylish women entrepreneurs in Chicago-click this link to view

Marti is in the process of writing her first book about being a young female entrepreneur, the challenges, the rewards and everything in between. It is a fun version of an MBA textbook that everyone will be able to relate to. She hopes to have the book published in 2010.

Marti Goyal, a fabulous gal you should know. Aniko Salon & Spa, a place you should be.

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Chic Gems Gal Profile: An Entrepreneurial Story

Chic Gems Gal Profile: An Entrepreneurial Story

Featuring Kerry Knee from Flirty Girl Fitness


Kerry Knee has revolutionized women’s fitness with a chain of exercise and entertainment studios, called Flirty Girl Fitness, which she opened in partnership with her sister, Krista Knee. Born in Newfoundland, Kerry spent most of her upbringing in Halifax before moving to Toronto, and now Chicago where she just opened the flagship US Flirty Girl Fitness location.

An MBA graduate from Concordia University in Montreal, Kerry had 12 years of experience working with business start ups, focusing on marketing, business development and product development for both large and small companies before deciding to launch her own business. Prior to Flirty Girl Fitness, Kerry’s specialty was in taking industry-first products to market and forming partnerships with Fortune 500 companies like HP, Microsoft, Pfizer, Merck, and Sanofi-Aventis. Kerry’s executive experience has spanned a variety of business sectors and includes such product launches as: a sales force effectiveness program for the pharmaceutical industry, a consumer ASP application for a leading communications company, a human resources enterprise wide management application, an oncology interactive education program for hospital networks, an online pharmaceutical community network for a government run physical portal, and a grassroots training and marketing program professional sports team.

Kerry’s move into fitness began in 2005 after watching an episode of Oprah with Desperate Housewives’ Terri Hatcher demonstrating a sexy workout class using a pole. Kerry thought it looked fun and wanted to try it, but she couldn’t find any classes available outside of CA. Because Kerry couldn’t find anywhere to learn the work out, she bought a pole and taught herself. She loved it so much that she talked her sister Krista into leaving a management IT position in Halifax to join her in Toronto to develop and launch Flirty Girl Fitness.

Today, Kerry and her sister, who were finalists at the 2007 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, have more than 125 employees at their two studios and plan to open dozens more studios across Canada and the U.S. The sisters have also designed and manufactured their own removable fitness pole and produced a series of instructional fitness videos which have been run in nationally syndicated infomercials across the US since January 2009 and are being test markets in several countries around the world. Kerry and her sister further built on their success by designing and creating a full Flirty Girl Fitness apparel line which launches in October 2009.

To learn more about Kerry and Flirty Girl Fitness visit Flirty Girl Fitness Online. Check back soon to learn more about other Chic Gem Gals and to hear our latest news about Chic Gems, Etc.

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, Etc

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Sarah Radford, of Chic Gems, Chosen as One of the TOP Women Entrepreneurs, by Mike Michalowicz

Sarah Radford, Owner of Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry

Sarah Radford chosen by Mike Michalowicz, as One of the TOP Women Entrepreneurs!

Mike's book was recently featured by Entrepreneur, New York Times, &

The U.S. News and World Report

Click here to read the story! of the TOP Women Entrepreneurs

from Mike Michalowicz, the Toilet Paper Entrepreneur

Here's an excerpt from the feature by Mike Michalowicz:

In the past year I’ve traveled extensively for speaking engagements, workshops and other events (yes, I do A LOT of speeches…. and, YES, I will gladly present to your group, too.) And in my travels I discovered something I did not expect: women are taking over. Everywhere I speak women fill the seats. They outnumber the men in my own network. And they are not just talking about starting businesses; they are leaders at the forefront of the next entrepreneurial wave. It’s not exactly what I expected to find when I set out to inspire the growing TPE movement.

Here's the story of Sarah Radford of Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry:

Sarah grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. After graduating from Wittenberg University, her professional life brought her to Chicago where she fell in love with the City. Sarah founded Chic Gems, etc. as a side-project in 2002. But when a corporate shake-up rattled her professional path in 2006, Sarah realized it was the perfect opportunity to turn her passionate hobby into a lifestyle and to take life into her own hands! Sarah's lifelong interest in fashion began early. From playing in her mom's jewelry box to making woven bracelets as a child, interest has finally blossomed into the development of her own brand in Chic Gems, etc. Sarah is inspired by everything around her; from a flower in Lincoln Park to an architectural detail on Michigan Avenue. She mixes classic and modern designs to create a new exciting twist for the woman who loves to be fashionable without being overly trendy.

Shop online at Chic Gems, etc.-Click here

Special April Sale-20% off all Jewelry & Handbags!

Shop online (call 888-801-8265 to order by phone)

from now until April 15, 2009.

Use code "bags" during checkout, to receive your discount.

Offer valid on all jewelry and handbags.

No cash value, cannot be combined with other offers, not valid at independent boutiques

that carry Chic Gems.

All the very best,

Sarah Radford
Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Meet Tami from TamTam Design Studios, Review by Sarah of Chic Gems

Click here to visit Tam Tam Design Online



I recently had the pleasure of meeting Tami Rasmussen of Tam Tam Designs.
She is an amazing woman and I wanted to share her Entrepreneurial Story:
From Hallmark Cards Designer to Entrepreneur

-From the Desk of TamTam-

Background information/How TamTam Started:

I grew up in Chicago and knew I wanted to be a greeting card designer in elementary school.
I set my sights high on landing my dream job at Hallmark Cards while in school and moved to Kansas City 3 months after my college graduation. I designed Boxed Christmas Cards at Hallmark - which was so perfect since it's still my most favorite occasion to design for!

Eventually I got the itch and the never-stop-moving-and-growing side of me was begging for a new adventure. So what's a girl to do? This one picked up and moved to Dallas, Texas. I spent the next year in Texas and I can honestly say that after just 4 short months of being there I knew I wanted to: A. Move back to Chicago and B. Start my own greeting card company. TamTam Design Studio opened shop on Sept. 27th, 2008. I moved back to Chicago on May 14th, 2008. TamTam came home with me and the rest is history. I sure miss my Margarita's and 80 degree January's - but there really is no place like home! I have never been happier.

Why you started your biz/ About TamTam:

A greeting card to me represents one of the smallest, simplest pleasures in life. How exciting is it to open up the mailbox and find a cute little colored envelope inside with your name on it! That's what TamTam is all about! What's interesting to me is that when you send a card it's both an expression of feelings - to who you are sending it to - and it's also an expression of self- what have you decided to send? I wanted to create a line of cards that would help today's style conscious consumer not only their personal thoughts- but also be able to share their exceptional taste with one another, as well. My hope is that TamTam Greeting Cards always offer creative and imaginative solutions that do both!

Of course the real reason I started my own business is so that I could do everything my way! Haha, I'm only kidding. But what I did want to do was contribute to the American economy by producing and assembling only here in the States and to manufacture only the highest quality products utilizing only environmentally friendly materials and processes. Because of this - our papers are always at least 30% post-consumer recycled, we print using only soy-based inks - all in the U.S. of A! That is something that I am extremely proud of!

Challenges Faced:

I can honestly say that I have never worked so hard in my life! But again - I have also never been happier. That's not to shabby of a bad trade-off, in my opinion. Even if the hours don't get to me though, the business side of business for an artist - is umm... challenging to say the very least. I'm learning something new everyday though - somedays its about accounting, somedays it's about myself. I also struggle with living up to the expectation that I am creative 24/7.

I'm not! Shhhh.....

Overcoming those challenges:

One of my new secret passions is buying motivational posters! Self-help wall art- I suppose! Haha. My current favorites say "Home is Where the Art is" and "Keep Calm and Carry On." When I'm fried- I can just glance up and refocus. Other things I love to read: Sark, Desiderata, and Domino. Seriously, the combo is a killer motivational cocktail.

Another way to combat the "new business blues" is to surround yourself with those that share your passion and network, network, network. Your setting yourself up for success both financially and mentally if you can achieve these two things. The work/life balance is a little different when it's your own business - but remember your in charge and it's up to you to make it happen. The reward and satisfaction of that should far outweigh the obstacles you face. Even challenges are rewarding when you remember that you are doing what you want to do!

Final notes from Tami:

P.S. Please stop by our website at TamTamDesign and sign up for our mailing list in the top right corner of the home page, as well as check out the latest and greatest happening at TamTam on Our Studio Blog.

Now is the perfect time to stop by and check out our great Christmas and Holiday Designs - we sell them in set's of six that come in a cute ribbon tied wallet! What's more is that we are also available for all of your custom invitation design needs, babies, weddings, holiday soiree's - you name it! Feel free to email Tami directly, click here to email with any comment or needs!

We would love to hear from you!

P.S.S. A special thanks to Sarah and Chic Gems - for your support, kindness, and

encouragement since TamTam began!

xoxo, tam

All the very best!

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Meet Allyson from Bess and Loie, Being an Entrepreneur is her Bag. Review by Sarah Radford, Chic Gems, etc.

(A view of the beatuiful Bess & Loie Boutique)

I had the chance to meet Allyson Holleb, a charming Entrepreneur, over one year ago.

Since then I stop by to see the latest bags anytime I am in the area.

You will find my line, Chic Gems, etc. sold there at certain special occasions.

What could be better than handbags and jewelry?

You can count on a relaxing experience at Bess & Loie. Ally is the absolute best hostess. She has all sorts of snacks and cushy chairs to watch tv. You almost forget that you're in a store.

It is simply a nice experience to shop at Bess & Loie. No high pressured sales people here-it's delightful and anyone visting Chicago should come see for themselves.

The store is named after Allyson's grandmothers, Bess and Loie.

A little bit about this Entrepreneur-

Allyson grew up in Chicago, went to Paris for her junior year of college (at UW Madison), and moved to NYC (She needed a City!) after college.

So what did she do in NYC?

Allyson worked as an event planner and then changed her focus, where she became a part of the retail buying team at Eileen Fisher, buying for the Eileen Fisher retail stores.

"I was there for four years, learned a ton about the industry, as I worked with all aspects of the business.... design, merchandising, warehouse, factory, etc. And then I decided to come back home to Chicago and open the shop."

What inspired you to start a business of owning a handbag boutique?

"While living in New York, I spent most of my shopping time searching for bags that were different, not your typical "labels", and that didn't cost me a complete arm and a leg. When I decided to move back to Chicago, it was to open a store focusing on these amazing, independent designers, whose work, I felt, was not being showcased yet in Chicago.

What challenges have you faced?

"Being an entrepreneur means that you're having to take care of every single aspect of your business, from cleaning the windows and floors to determining the product assortment to marketing the business to making sure that there's enough toilet paper in the bathroom. It's really been a learning experience. Also, just getting the business' name out and driving traffic into my boutique, which is definitely in a location that's a destination.

How are you overcoming those challenges?

" Just keep on working, and not letting the enormity of everything get me down. And taking the little victories and really enjoying them- helping a customer find the exact right handbag or piece of jewelry, and seeing how happy that it can make someone- it means that I've done my job. And all of the amazing people who I've met along the way."

A final note from Allyson
Bess & Loie is packed with beautiful bags, and I’ve tried to make it an inviting place where customers feel welcome and relaxed. On any given day, you’re likely to find people hanging out on the comfy chairs, kicking back with a glass of wine, some chocolate and licorice, watching a Bears game or an old episode of Beverly Hills, 90210.

So that's her bag. Shop in the store or online.

All the very best!

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Meet Amy of Ciao Bella Chicago, a True Entrepreneur. Review by Sarah Radford, Chic Gems, etc.

I have had the pleasure of knowing Amy Lechelt Basta for almost 2 years. She has an upbeat and charming personality. She has been an entrepreneur all her life, so I thought it would be fun and inspiring to hear her story and her perspective on owning a business, dealing with challenges at work

and in life, etc.!

So why did you start your business, Ciao Bella Chicago?

I started my biz, cuz I could! Ha-ha! Actually, Jerry, my husband and I, had always thought that I should own a boutique because I was very enthusiastic when leaving my other boutique sales jobs, telling stories every day for hours (really!). And, not only did I have 25 years of experience in retail, but I also became very good at "styling"! Who knew? Finally, I have been an entrepreneur all my life! I took all of my background and joined it together into one location! Event Stylist/coordinator, model/actress/singer/performer, artist, sales manager/sales/bookeeper, flight attendant! I love the challenge of business!

What are the challenges you're facing?

The economy! It couldn't be a worse time to open a biz than when we did! However, the fact that we are still here shows we're doing something right! But, it inihibits "taking it to the next level". And, secondly, to my surprise- employees. Everyone told me this, but I didn't believe it. Even if you have the best employees possible, you still need to deal with all employees "issues", whether work related or personal- on a daily basis.

How are you overcoming those challenges?

Remember to keep a positive attitude, even if it means you need to "adjust it" from time to time. "Everything happens as it should...." It's a business, not your health or life! And, if you run a good, honest life/business, you will have always know you did the best you could- by all!

What brands will shoppers find at Ciao Bella Chicago?

For Women:
Gant, b. chyll, Body, Lucky Brand, Tommy Bahama, Billy Blues,

Majestic Bernadette Conte, Panda Snack, City Lights, Spanx,

JWLA , Johnny Was, Be present, Adea, Bailey 44, Victorinox Swiss Army,

Daftbird, Vintage Glam, Iodice, Sarah Pacini, Lauren Vidal
Hard Tail, R jean, Pursuit of Harmony, Cino, Oramomi
Uncle Frank, Level 99, Tag Jeans, and more.

For Men:

James Perse, Rosasen, Splendid Mills, Victorinox Swiss Army
Lucky Brand, Indigo Palms, Jet Lag, Gant
Generra, Modern Amusement, Bugatchi, J Brand, and more.

Accessories:

Hobo, Matt & Nat, John Wind, Baggallini
Love Quotes, Karen Weiss Belts, eye bobs, Seril
Nundies, Sassy nips, Chic Gems, etc., and more.
Pure Style Girlfriends-Stay Put, Gather the Girls, Haute Stuff, Smooth 'em

Press:

Women's Wear Daily, Daily Candy, Time Out Chicago,

Chicago Mag.com, and Chicago Scene.

Thanks Amy for your insight!

Ciao!

Check out Ciao Bella Chicago online!

Be sure to stop by the store if you're in Chicago.

They are located at 3829 N Southport, one of Chicago's hottest shopping blocks.

The store is steps away from the historic Music Box Theatre!

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Sugar Bliss Cakes are out of this World! A Review by Sarah Radford, Chic Gems, etc.

I had the pleasure of meeting Teresa Ging of Sugar Bliss Cake Boutique.

She has an amazing story. She tossed the big salary in Corporate America and struck out on her own. I have had several of her cupcakes, (well maybe a lot of her cupcakes)

and they are top notch!

From Banker to Baker...

Teresa graduated from University of Chicago, Bachelors of Arts in Economics and Statistics.

You ask, what encouraged her to open this business? I have always wanted to start my own business and have always been an entrepreneur. While I was in finance and working in Downtown Chicago Loop, there was no place to purchase a cupcake or birthday cake. With so many businesses, hotels, tourist attractions nearby, I felt that there was a need to open a cake shop. In late 2006, I decided to leave 6 years of finance to attend Le Cordon Bleu Patisserie Program in Paris, then in October 2007, I launched the catering and delivery side of the business and this year we I will open our first retail location in the Downtown Chicago Loop in December 2008!

You're dying to know, how did she come up with the name Sugar Bliss Cake Boutique? I really liked the two words “Sugar” and “Bliss” and since we are a premium cake/cupcake shop, I decided to name the company Sugar Bliss Cake Boutique.

So what does a typical day look like for you? In the morning we are baking all the cupcakes for that days order; we bake every cupcake fresh each day. Once the cupcakes are baked we let them cool and then frost each cupcake with our signature blossom design and top the cupcake with our signature dot. Then they are ready to be packaged into our custom boxes. Once the orders are completed they are ready to be delivered to our customers and are picked up from the courier. In the afternoon we are planning the next day of cupcake orders and preparing cake batters and frostings.

Teresa caters to Corporate, hotels, event/wedding planners, catering companies

You're wondering what bakery products does she make? We have over 20 flavors of regular and mini cupcakes, breakfast cupcakes (which are fruit muffins), frosting shots, and cakes. We also sell beverages such as coffee, tea, hot chocolate, bottled water, juice, and milk.

How many different kinds of cupcakes does she sell? We have over 20 flavors on our menu and additional seasonal flavors throughout the year.
Minis are $1.25 and Regular Size are $3.25

So, what kind of ingredients do you use in your cupcakes? We use the highest quality, natural ingredients, such as European Cocoa, Nielsen Massey pure Madagascar Bourbon vanilla, and real fruits. Our extra moist cupcakes are decorated with our signature Sugar Bliss bloom, a rich and creamy frosting topped with our signature dot. We do not add preservatives or use corn syrup or shortening and all of our cupcakes are made from scratch (no cake mixes) and are baked fresh each day.

Who is Teresa's inspiration? My parents, they always supported and encouraged me in whatever I did and inspired me to pursue my dreams, which was owning

my own business one day.

Congrats Teresa on your great success in only 1 year! I can't wait to see the Sugar Bliss Cake Boutique in the Chicago Loop. Keep up the good work!

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for the Professional Woman

The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur by Mike Michalowicz, Review by Sarah Radford of Chic Gems, etc.

The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur, by Mike Michalowicz

With the insane economic climate we are having, I just wanted to drop you a quick note about the website I was profiled on last week. (You may remember my picture with the gems on one arm, the lemon in one hand and me wrapped in TP! If you did not see it yet, scroll back a few blog posts.)

The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur has had a lot of updates, including info on how to navigate these tough times as a new or established entrepreneur.

The site is http://www.toiletpaperentrepreneur.com/.

Here's a little summary of the book...

The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur, aka TPE, helps first-time entrepreneurs develop the qualities and beliefs they need to recognize and cultivate in order to succeed in business, explaining how to cut through excuses and pursue the business that sets

their hearts afire.
In his book Michalowicz kicks standard entrepreneurial methodology to the curb, explaining why no one needs a business plan, angel financing, or an Ivy League education to launch a successful business. Each tell-it-like-is chapter is packed with advice straight from the trenches, interspersed with dozens of tips to help people launch and run their business on a beer and pizza budget.

So does the "TPE" method really work, you ask?

Mike Michalowicz started his first business at the age of 24, moving his young family to the only safe place he could afford - a retirement village. With limited resources and no experience, he systematically grew a multi-million dollar technology business, sleeping in conference rooms to avoid hotel costs. After selling his first company, Mike launched a new business the very next day, and in less than three years, sold it to a Fortune 500. With his newest venture, Obsidian Launch, he fosters startup businesses with

his “get rich right” approach.
A graduate of Inc. & MIT’s “Birthing of Giants” Entrepreneurial Program, Mike received Young Entrepreneur of the Year awards multiple times. He is a recurring guest on CNBC’s The Big Idea with Donny Deutsch, has been featured on National Public Radio (NPR), and in the New York Times, Smart CEO Magazine, and other publications.

Watch Mike's video on The Big Idea-Donny Deutsch, Click Here!

Drop Mike a line:

Mike@ToiletPaperEntrepreneur.com

Join the TPE Facebook Group

This great country was founded by the Entrepreneurial spirit...we will get through these tough times and come out on top, just watch! ~Sarah

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for the Professional Woman

Check out Celebrity Skin Couture Air Tan-Sarah Radford of Chic Gems, etc. loves their tan and entrepreneurial story!

I had the pleasure of meeting Becky over 4 years ago when I was looking to transition into Pharmaceutical sales...we have been friends ever since! I wanted to share her story!~Sarah

Becky is from Indianapolis, went to college at Indiana University. She worked in sales for Sony Electronics and then Pharmaceutical sales. She quit her job to stay home with kids. She started the tanning business to offer herself a part time job while staying home with her kids. Heather Rice, her partner, grew up in the Chicago suburbs, also graduated from Indiana, where they met. Heather works full time in construction sales and wanted to start a business to grow her personal wealth and financial future.

Here's what Becky and Heather had to say about their business-the idea, the challenges, overcoming those challenges, and living the entrepreneurial dream!

~Celebrity Skin Couture Air Tan~

"We also, as super fair whities, wanted to offer our fellow pale peeps a safe, natural and flawless faux tan they could walk proud with. There are tons of options out there for self tanners, but few of them offer a natural color with meticulous attention to detail, particularly on hands a feet, common problem areas with faux tanning. We all know the importance of protecting ourselves from the harmful effects of too much sun, yet it is hard to resist the sun kissed look that makes us feel 10 pounds thinner and more attractive overall.Of course our biggest challenge is getting the word out there. Advertising is very expensive, and so far even the advertising we have employed hasn't resulted in huge returns. Our other challenge is striking that "part time" balance. It is difficult to manage any business part time. While motherhood is my "full time" job, I have to work hard to achieve a balance between my responsibilities at home and my desire to build our business. Heather also struggles with striking a balance between her full time job and her part time business. To overcome this challenge we try to meet regularly to discuss marketing ideas and strategies. We're focused more on grass roots marketing and partnering with salons, spas, med spas, etc to build our clientele. Another challenge of course is the economy. People are watching their pennies and not spending what they used to on luxury services. For this we are offering package rates, group rates, referral programs, etc. We feel if we can get customers to experience our product, they will tell their friends and come back for more."

"I can personally say that the tan I got from the ladies of Couture Air Tan blew away any other faux tan I have ever had. People asked me in February what island I had just returned from. If that is not the ultimate testimony, I am not sure what is?"

~Sarah

Becky 773-507-3559 Heather 773-562-9469

info@coutureairtan.com

Visit Couture Air Tan Online!

All the very best!

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Story of Sarah Radford, Chic Gems, etc., featured today on the Toilet Paper Entrepreneur!

Here's an excerpt from my story on the Toilet Paper Entrepreneur today!

"I always knew that one day I would own my own business. I started my company, Chic Gems, etc. jewelry, as a side project in 2002 while working as a top medical sales representative. I have always enjoyed fashion, beginning at a very early age. I enjoyed owning Chic Gems for the obvious reason of designing my own creations and I used my sales bonuses to finance the company - everything from jewelry bead stock to filing fees for the incorporation. I am thankful that I took life into my own hands when I did because in October of 2006 I was laid off from my sales job due to a company buy out. Chic Gems, etc. became full time from that moment on."

To read more and go to the Toilet Paper Entrepreneur site...CLICK HERE!

Here's a quick snap shot about Mike Michalowicz, founder of

The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur:

A graduate of Inc. & MIT’s “Birthing of Giants” Entrepreneurial Program, Mike received Young Entrepreneur of the Year awards multiple times. He is a recurring guest on CNBC’s The Big Idea with Donny Deutsch, has been featured on National Public Radio (NPR), and in the New York Times, Smart CEO Magazine, and other publications.

All the very best!

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for the Professional Woman

Entrepreneurs that I Admire by Sarah Radford, Chic Gems, etc.

Entrepreneur in English is a term applied to the type of personality who is willing to take upon herself or himself a new venture or enterprise and accepts full responsibility for the outcome. In common understanding it is taken as describing a dynamic personality.

Richard Branson is one of my favorite entrepreneurs of all time!

I admire his strong sense of self and love for adventure. I have read almost all of his books and can honestly say that he has been a strong source of inspiration for me and my business.

As Helen Keller said, "Life is a daring adventure or nothing."

Branson's first successful business began at the age of 16, when he published a magazine called Student. When he was seventeen, he opened his first charity, the "Student Advisory Centre." He then set up a record mail-order business in 1970. In 1972, he opened a chain of record stores, Virgin Records, later known as Virgin Megastores and rebranded as zavvi in late 2007. With his flamboyant and competitive style, Branson's Virgin brand grew rapidly during the 1980s - as he set up Virgin Atlantic Airways and expanded the Virgin Records music label. Richard Branson is the 245th richest person according to Forbes' 2008 list of billionaires as he has an estimated net worth of approximately $2.8 billion USD.

Branson was knighted in 1999 for 'services to entrepreneurship'

and presented as a millennium icon.

"My interest in life comes from setting myself huge, apparently unachievable challenges and trying to rise above them...from the perspective of wanting to live life to the full, I felt that I had to attempt it."

Richard Branson

Info and image courtesy of Wikipedia.org

My next week of blogs will highlight stories of Entrepreneurs.

You may ask~how many entrepreneurs have there been in the history of the world? Millions, certainly, probably even billions. These are the men and women who take capital -- their own or somebody else’s -- and use it to beget more capital. Some fail, some succeed, some excel.

Quote from MSNBC.com

During these times of economic turmoil, I think back to the founding of this Great Nation.

It's my favorite historical period, probably because it appeals to the entrepreneur in me. Not to go on a political tangent, but this country was founded by the entrepreneurial spirit. It is this risk taking attitude that has gotten us to where we are today. I would like to see people stop being so apathetic and take control of their lives...I did.

All the very best!

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for the Professional Woman

Special from Chic Gems! Go online and get a FREE pair of earrings.

All you need to do is tell 10 friends about Chic Gems!

Click here to go online now.

Chic Gems, etc. is participating in "Designs for Count Me In" from SHEFINDS-20% of Sales from Our Pearl Necklace will be Donated!

Check out Count Me In!

Chic Gems, etc. is pleased to support Count Me In!

Count Me In promotes the growth of women owned businesses and is the leading national not for profit provider of online business loans, resources, and community for women entrepreneurs. Beginning in September and continuing through Jan 1st, SheFinds will feature original accessories by independent designers. A portion of each sale will go to Count Me In. With each purchase, you are contributing to the development of women in business.

Chic Gems, etc. is pleased to donate 20% of all sales of our Pearl Necklaces.

Choose from Lilac, Smoke, Oyster, and Bronze.

Click here to purchase!

From now until January 1, 2009 you can shop

Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry to support Count Me In.

All the very best!

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for the Professional Woman