" In my Shoes"

"We grew up together"

2012-02-02T14:29:00.000-08:00

A lot has happened recently, opening stores like crazy, (one a month since September, to be exact.) Our latest venture is something new, "SPARKLE" an All accessory store....we have transitioned our Mountain's Edge location into the Sparkle store, since we have the Rainbow store located pretty close to it already. We opened this store just last month on the 28th, So far, So good.

I know sometimes it sounds like we are a machine, that just keeps opening all these shops and most of you wonder "How?"... and although everything has to do with a higher power, a lot has to do with our team...I have to admit, we have the most amazing staff, It's NOT even funny. We have people that NEVER complain, are always up for a challenge, and don't mind helping on their time off. My name is only a word attached to the actual company, it's the team that makes it successful.....our recent boom is because of....Jose, Gaby, Mirella, John, Amy, Savannah, Sharimae, Ariel, Maira and Tiffany. They have grown up with us, and they own most of our success. Thanks again guys! We <3 U.

"Sparkle" Grand Opening

Lately, I have thought a lot about how I have grown up with Vegas as opposed to growing up in it. There are so many people that say nothing but negative things about this city, yet they chose to make it their home, ( I'm not sure how that makes any sense) For me Vegas isn't just the word that fills the city of birth box on my birth certificate, it's more like the brother or sister I grew up with. I grew up on the NE side of Vegas, it was......HOME. Even if it had the most crime, the lowest household income demographic, it was home. I love looking back at my school days and get that feeling of walking home from school with the kids from our street, looking forward to Friday nights when my dad would treat us to "Pizza Inn" on Lake mead Blvd. or getting my first job at the Meadows mall, ( back then, it was THE PLACE). I love that I graduated from Rancho H.S. it was always the school that got the weird look, you know the " OH, you went there?" I love, those days, where going to lunch was walking down to "Villa Pizza" on Bonanza, I grew up feeling like this City was HUGE! yet, it was only a third of what it has become.

I am so proud to be a native,& In a way I feel like I've helped built it. Now a days when Juan and I talk about a new business venture it's not just about opening a shop, it's about creating that new spot that years from now, a girl like myself will be reminiscent about.

Several years ago, I was listening to "Mark and Mercedes" on the radio driving to work at a clinic on Desert inn. and now I have the pleasure of calling Mercedes a friend. Years ago I was working as a server at one of the Hotels, watching the celebs film shows there, and now...we've had 3 reality shows filmed at our shops, I was watching stylists criticize red carpet looks for award season on TV, and now I'm on our local TV station doing that exact same thing. I once needed help of certain local charities as a Teen mom, of a special needs child...and now the tables have turned and we create events to help the charities instead.

I really feel like we are an amazing representation of what Vegas really means, this city may seem small, but it has A HUGE future. Trust me, I know, we grew up together. Here's hoping you grow up with your city and not just in it, and Here's to YOUR big future, in YOUR hometown...where ever that may be.

" New year,New Me?I think Not."

2012-01-01T20:14:00.000-08:00

Happy 2012! I know it's been a long 4 month minute...But I was doing a couple of things. Last I wrote, we had just franchised over our first Store.......Since then, we have franchised 4 others! opening one EVERY month since September....... Needless to say, It's been a little hectic around the Barba household! Our latest store opening was the first outside of Vegas,and it is located in the ritzy area of Nob Hill in Portland, OR. It's a beautiful Place...( I have to admit I feel a little more connected to the twilight fans, since the movie was filmed there.) While visiting Portland we were able to eat at so many great places! Papa Haydn's, they had AMAZING desserts, also Voodoo doughnuts they have doughnuts on steroids! The whole family was able to come along while we put this masterpiece of a store together! That was the best part. The other stores we opened are in the NW part of Vegas, Summerlin, &Townsquare. We've opened stores, 2 other reality shows have filmed in our stores (can't disclose which 2 yet, but will soon). We've been in countless publications recently, We have a new project about to unveil soon, and the franchises keep coming.

To be honest with you....... I still think I'm dreaming at times, we have received blessings by the fistfuls this year, and I have to admit I have a hard time understanding why? why is it that when so many others are having a hard time, we get more? why Do we deserve to have ALL of this, yet the neighbor might have none? This year especially at the holidays I found myself buying groceries for the homeless, and adopting families for Christmas, and It's because In a sense I felt guilty...I felt as if we had way too much and it was unfair not to share. Although I don't like to admit it very often, (mostly because my husband has told me this before) I've always been a person that can settle, the person that just wants to have enough, just enough to get by and have only the basic necessities we need, Now obviously that's NOT good for business. So I have had many of those battles with myself, But This year was a HUGE learning experience for me in many ways! This year brought us lots of work, many memorable moments, growing pains & surreal feelings.

This time of year everyone wants to change, lose weight, become motivated, become a better person,change their look...blah, blah, blah. Other than wanting to be a bit more prepared for what 2012 is bringing us,( that's right I said "What it's bringing us" because I know it's FULL of activity.) I don't really want to change much....

This New years Eve the whole Family got together and spent it on the Strip, this was our First time experiencing it on NYE. (as a LV native, I'm kind of embarrassed to admit that). I have to say, I wasn't a fan...I mean I Heart my city, But my point is....I like me. Boring, uninteresting, underwhelming; me. I've never been a party girl, and I never will be... I'm awkwardly shy at times and I always be.....at times I wish I was the life of the party, But I'm not...Nor will I ever be....But you know what? I'm OK with that! this NYE I figured out that....I love me, I love us...I love that we were uninterested at the massive crowd on the strip, I love that we got a room, yet decided in an instant that we'd rather go home, I love that we understood it just wasn't our thing, I love that time at HOME has absolutely, Positively, become the biggest luxury for us, I love that only HE gets me, and I don't want to change that, Not now, not ever.

"Farewell 2011, Welcome 2012, Come in as a stranger, But please leave as a friend".

"Don't Pinch me, I don't want to wake up"

2011-08-11T19:10:00.000-07:00

So, I know it's been a long minute since I last posted something, and to be honest I think I need to.... just to keep a bit of my sanity, and let it ALL out! Lots has happened since I last talked to you guys, here's a list:

A. the event i was on the committee for at New Vista, came and went, ( It was a HIT, I loved being part of it).
B.I'm on another committee for Down Syndrome this time, our "TEAS & pearls" event will be happening this Oct.
C. OH YES, we MOVED....and I hope we don't have to do it EVER again!
D.along the way I designed a t-shirt line, which will launch this month, & one of the T's will give proceeds to the NSPCA, ( real humbled by that)
E. This year we will participate in FNO "Fashion's night out" ( Sept. 8th, Huge fashion event at the stores, & that will be here before we know it.)
F.We are currently raiding peoples closets for the MORE show on Fox, as well as giving fashion tips, such as ....."crop tops don't go with muffin tops" I think I'll copyright that one :)
G.Found out today that I will be critiquing the fashion for the EMMY awards on FOX...(I'm soooo excited, yet slightly terrified.)
H. I have a kid going into high school this year, so I should be having a nervous break down sometime soon.
I. We became publishers of a Magazine...Kind of random, But It's been AMAZING thus far.
J.Oh yes, then there's the franchising,.......well let's just say we might be at 10 new stores by the end of the year! one which opens Sept. 3rd, YES, that's in 3 weeks.

Don't get me wrong, If this is a dream, Don't pinch me, Cause I DON'T wanna wake up! But there are times, that everything in me gets tested....My wisdom, endurance,sanity...ETC.
The one thing that NEVER fails me is my family, The Hubby....What can I say, he's a warrior, and he NEVER settles for nothing but the best, and our son "Robbie" & Dog "COCO". What a way to make us stay grounded & live in the moment.
I'm sorry it took so long to update this, But I hope you can understand, sometimes it's choosing to sleep or write......Here's to your plate ALWAYS staying FULL, Because you never know when it ALL might go away.

Here's an invite to the T Shirt launch, remember it's for a great cause! Bring your Family including your pet! After all that's what is all about.

Hugs & Loves; XOXO

" Counting My blessings"

2011-04-25T17:45:00.000-07:00

I know you have to be sick of me saying, " What a crazy week!" ( In this case two weeks) But it's the truth! This was one of the main reasons I decided to start blogging, It's easy to get so caught up in all the madness that goes on around us everyday, that it's nice to have actual documentation of what happened, This past week Was THE week, all of our hard work actually became a legal document called a " Franchise Disclosure Document" Somehow It being on paper isn't that big of a deal, But the actual act of meeting with people that want to BUY your idea.....Well, now that's something. We met with 6 locals, That want to open their own Closets here in town & 4 that want to open out of state. What a thrill it is to finally feel like all your hard work is finally going to payoff! Be on the look out for a gazillion "Patty's Closets" opening up before your eyes.We have the Fashion Show at "The Rumor" Boutique hotel this weekend, benefiting the Hands of Comfort foundation, We are working on big plans for this year's "Fashion's Night Out" celebration & several other comittee meetings this week, I can't help to feel so blessed, Full of work & loved ones!

It's always nice when you have a holiday at a time when you feel like your spinning so fast, you need some down time. Easter will always be a time I remember as a kid, My mom would scramble to find us the perfect Easter attire, somehow lace or ruffles were always involved! I remember the times the whole family would get together and make a huge egg hunt! Even though as children we're unaware what the real meaning of Easter is, I'm so glad that it was special for me...Therefore, it means twice as much now that I know the true meaning behind it. I'm so grateful for parents that made my holidays feel special, and for a husband that supports me & doesn't look at me crazy, when I want him to make a quick pit stop at Walmart for candy to put in our nieces baskets. I want to be that aunt that instills the specialness of each holiday just like mine did. I guess sometimes that motherly guilt sets in, (even though, My son could care less about the holidays)I start wishing I could spend a little more time with my nieces before they grow up, & figure out ...I'm really NOT that cool.


The Nieces, only boy in this fam is my son Robbie (we all know boys aren't fun)

If you really think about it, every Holiday has the same meaning........It all boils down to Blessings. Here's to counting your blessings & the ability to really watch the little ones grow up before your eyes, But most of all, Here's to my blessed shoes of the week!

PS. I have another right now Obsession, so I have to post it...LACE, ( It could just be the feeling of Easter in the air) But I LOVE the White Lace tunic from where else? Patty's Closet.

****Don't forget I'm still doing the fave things giveaway, We have a new local designer joining the family, so I'm doing an Autumn Reed Design giveaway, it's this awesome woven leather cuff, with Crystal buttons.."Must Buy" Just follow my Blog & get entered to win :)

" My BIG plan"

2011-04-11T22:05:00.000-07:00

As expected this week flew by, with a lot of the routine stuff my life as a boutique owner entails, Buying...merchandising.... planning........Planning, I never was much of a planner, I guess I'm still not, But I DO plan on being successful, so.....at one point It helps to have a plan. I always knew when I was a teenager that I wanted a career in Fashion. Back when I was in High school, A Career in Fashion wasn't a very realistic choice for me, There was no local schooling for it, My parents weren't really in a position to send me to an expensive out of state school, & there was also the whole culture thing, Coming from a Hispanic family, Whenever, I would bring up having a career in Fashion, My dad automatically assumed I would end up as a seamstress. Not that there's anything wrong with that, as far as I'm concerned sewing is a very rare talent, now a days. But, that has literally been the ONLY time, I wish I'd never listened to my dad, & instead listened to my heart... Parents always want bigger & better for their children, even if it means they leave behind the passion for a certain profession. This weekend, I attended the "Fashion Forward" event for the Jr. League of Las Vegas, This was a show put on By High school students who have an interest in possibly pursuing fashion as a career...They designed prom dresses with a budget of $50 & rocked them on the catwalk, Let me tell you, I was IMPRESSED.I felt the passion these girls had for what they had created, & it was amazing. I was also pleasantly surprised to see my High school Fashion teacher Mrs. Bentle after 17 years! I introduced my self, & she was beyond belief....I didn't have much time with her, But I really wanted to tell her,, that her class was the funnest time I EVER had in school, that no matter how crazy the class became at times, I was ALWAYS listening, that even though most girls took the course as a fun, easy way to get a credit, for me, it was something else, Fashion was my BIG plan back then; and even though things for me didn't happen traditionally, they STILL happened, & now I'm here right smack in the middle of creating fashion history in my hometown......So, everything my fashion teacher said 17 yrs. ago, did matter!and with that said, I'm dedicating this post to my 11th grade Fashion teacher, & to all the teachers that have enough passion to follow their dream & in exchange allow us to create a plan, or at least dream about one.....After all, plans might not always work out but dreams do.


My High school Fashion teacher, Mrs. Bentle & Myself

Fashion Forward Event at Fashion Show Mall

There's a big week ahead, & with fashion being my life, I wanted to share some of my favorite looks, and one of my "RIGHT NOW OBSESSIONS"....Vintage belts, I absolutely have been going KA-razy, for them, especially the skinny ones, in one week I purchased about 10! They're just so versatile, & can compliment almost any outfit!

So, I'm giving one away as my fave thing this week, along with a tee from one of our new vendors " Sinner Tees" This line is brand new to Sin city, by a group of very talented artists, I love that fact that we can help out local artists, by offering their creations in our stores....I feel like I've come full circle at times, But then I wake up & realize we're just getting started. Here's to figuring out YOUR BIG PLAN, & sticking to it, & Here's to remembering your heart is NEVER wrong, but your head on the other hand makes mistakes more often.But most of all, here's to my shoes of the week, That always follow my fashion plan. Hugs & Loves;PB.

As promised, here's my Fave giveaway of the week, a Sinner designer Tank & a vintage skinny belt... get entered to win ALL of the fave things for April, once you follow my blog! Good Luck.

"My past in my Future"

2011-04-04T22:48:00.000-07:00

I'm in a very new & amazing time in my life right now, I'm at the time where all the things that mattered when I was younger...just don't anymore, therefore I appreciate those times. A time where I finally have an unconditional soul mate to share everything with, a time where I know where I'm headed, and I know what My purpose in life is.....It's New, yet so Amazing. This week I had an opportunity to bring a glimpse of my past into my future, I had the most amazing BFF when I was a kid, her name is "Janet"...Yes, unfortunately I say "had" because like many girlfriends out there, we in a sense " Broke-up" ...we were friends for YEARS! & one day, suddenly over the dumbest thing, our friendship became a thing of the past. I really regret NOT having Janet as a friend for senior year, or NOT having her there when I found out I was pregnant, But it happened & we can't undo the past. 6 years ago, at our 10 yr high school reunion, we reconnected, & apologized to each other.....Things weren't the same, & I think we both knew, they'd NEVER be. We've been keeping in touch since then here & there...But,after 6 yrs.This past weekend Janet came home for a visit.....I have to say, It felt like we were teenage girls again, laughing & talking for hours, again we stated our regrets for the past, But somehow this time it felt REAL. I can't help to feel like we've finally grown up, we're both professionals, we have families, soul mates...we GET it.( this is what it means to reconnect with a lost friend) I have to say It was Amazing to catch up with the one person, that knew all my dreams when I was a kid & even though we lost out on a lot of time with out each other, I'm hoping that we will keep closer tabs on each other.


I think Janet & I were 16 yrs. old in these pics.....Those were the days.

I also had the "Artfully Sweet" event which was a HUGE success! This was the event benefiting, So.NV Children First, ( Pregnant Homeless youth), It was a proud moment for me, I was able to share with my family all the hard work we did on the committee, I really want to take this tinny space to "THANK" everyone who helped as soon as I called: Patricia, @LULU B's Wine for all the delish spirits, Jessica Galindo for her Fab designs, Vitamin water & Smart water for all the quenching drinks, Kari @ Retro Bakery,Alana@ Vanity Flair, Lys@ Thunder from Down under, & American Storm for the auction items, Julz @ Straight Up Tanning & last but, certainly not least Tiffany @ Golden Nugget for the stay-cation package... Thank you from ALL of us at So. NV Children First....


"Artfully Sweet" ( Jess from Jess's cupcakes, Juan,Myself,Robbie- Patricia Lulu B's,- Jessica Galindo Leather Couture)

& to wrap this up, we make a habit of celebrating EVERY single accomplishment that comes our way, That's right, we are that ANNOYING family that screams through the roof when, we reach a goal, win an award or simply hear our stores name somewhere. But we don't do it alone....we take our staff with us, we understand we aren't " The Best" alone.... we are blessed to have a staff that celebrates with us, they look forward to it, I genuinely see a younger version of myself in my girls, we took them all out for dinner to celebrating being "The Best"!After all, If we don't celebrate our accomplishments...Who will?

Dinner with Patty's Closet & Voluptuous staff

I am a a point in my life where I know who will celebrate with me, who will still giggle with me & who will comfort me when I cry.....That in itself, Is my blessing.....Here's to Figuring out, What part of your past...must simply be in you future, & what part you can do with out. But most of all here's to my shoes of the week, that left last week behind. Hugs & Loves;PB

PS> This will be the first item for the April Fave thing giveaway! I received some in the mail, & they are worthy of some talk..They are "Rock Girls Jewels" Basically it's bling for your boots....I <3 them. Remember follow my blog & get entered to win. Congrats to my March Fave Giveaway winner! " Jenn Nay" I will contact.

"Just be You, & you might win"

2011-03-28T08:16:00.000-07:00

It's been an unusual pair of weeks, therefore my mood was really not up for writing, (and I refuse to write when it's not naturally coming to me, I'm just being honest).We've been pretty busy, running the stores, working on the franchise process & all the other day to day stuff.....I did however get the chance to play Tim Gunn, for a day....remember I mentioned I would be mentoring several fashion students at a high school for a competition through the Jr. League of Las Vegas? That happened last week, (the contest will be Apr.9th @ Fashion Show Mall) It's pretty interesting how much I learn about myself every time I participate in some sort of mentoring/speaking/volunteering position, First of all, I totally get flashbacks, I see myself standing there as a insecure teenager, thinking about all the amazing ideas I had, yet never had the guts to share....due to fear of rejection. I was always scared someone would criticize my creation & scar me for life, I never wanted someone to talk me out of my amazing idea, I guess deep down, I always believed the were,,, GOOD ideas.....I was so blessed to speak to these girls as if they were MYSELF, back then...I was able to see their unfinished creations...& visualize with them, the end result. I realized that I never once said " You should do this instead...." and it's because deep down, I'm still that girl that never wanted her creative spirit broken, I knew how to see the beauty in what they were making, & that's something special that NO school can teach.

The Fab girls from Palo Verde HS showing off their designs

I have yet another jam packed week, with several committee meetings, & "Artfully Sweet" is FINALLY coming this Saturday, so I will be able to close that chapter. Today, Sunday March 27th, was a pretty special day, today I learned something else about myself. Every year, The local newspaper, The Review Journal, gives recognition to winners of their yearly poll, locals can vote for their favorite Local Businesses, places or people....Last year, for the first time we won. I remember the morning we found out VERY VIVIDLY, it was so surreal, a dream....I couldn't believe that I was born & raised here, & NOW, my hometown newspaper declared (not only by the readers, but by the staff as well) our store ":The Best of 2010"....Well today, the results for the 2011 poll came out, and we have relived the dream all over again, Not only did our "Patty's Closet" boutique win " Best Boutique" But our Newborn "Voluptuous" Plus Boutique won in a category as well, WE are beyond words as you can imagine, & we owe it all to our devoted , loyal customers who voted for us..... But, I really want to say that I've learned many lessons along my short entrepreneurial life, but today's, was a real important one......It's easy to win when you're the ONLY one, It's easy to win when you're the MOST confident, But it's another thing, to win when you are SCARED out of your mind that you're not pleasing everyone, SCARED, that you might be making enemies left & right because of the choices you are making, or that you have imitators stepping on your last stepping stone, hoping to get a glimpse of what you've had. Well, I've learned that no matter if you're a teenager too scared to follow a passion, or a scared business woman hoping to always make the right choice,..... fear will always try to defy you. After today, I can't fear anymore, & it's not because we won, But because all along, I was only being myself. I can't be scared of that!...I think sometimes it's easier to want to be like someone else, because you fear someone won't like YOU for YOU. There was a VAST amount of pressure (mainly brought on by ourselves) to win his year, & the main reason was to prove to ourselves that our hearts can NEVER be wrong......we can only offer the world ourselves, we ARE unique,& we ARE different.....Coco Chanel said it right, " In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different.".....There will NEVER be two of me,& that's a bet I'll NEVER lose. No matter what our future holds, we will forever be grateful to this beautiful city, that has showed us support, and has validated our hard work & dedication, From ALL of us at Patty's Closet & Voluptuous Fashion Boutiques....." Thank you" Las Vegas, for voting us, Once again...." The Best".....Here's to always being YOU, no matter the fears or pressures that may come your way, But most of all, here's to my shoes of the week, that have always carried me through my fears. Hugs & Loves;PB.

PS. Let's keep my fave things coming! This week your getting a 2fer, ( just cause I cheated last week)..I got creative recently, so I'm giving away 2 of my creations....(an adjustable wooden ring, & some butterfly decals I recently made to spruce up one of the dressing rooms)...Just Follow my blog, get entered to win, & at the end of March winner gets ALL my march Fave things, Good Luck.

" Home Sweet Home"

2011-03-14T08:50:00.000-07:00

There was something so wonderfully nostalgic about this week, as expected, it went WAY too fast, but after I got around to my charity committee meeting for the "Artfully sweet"event, ordered for all 4 stores, & did the usual Tuesday rounds, the Hubby & I, got a chance to stay away from the stores for a couple of days to celebrate his B-day & our Anniversary...We decided to stay downtown at the Golden Nugget in the new Rush Tower, I have to say IT was.... pretty Fab. Coming from someone who grew up in Vegas...I was excited to see that there is still something great to experience in such a historic part of Vegas! I started to remember the times as a kid ;when my older cousin would take us downtown on the bus to buy knick-knacks in the souvenir stores with our allowance, ....... It was nice to also try something new, & create a new memory, they recently created a Zip-line attraction under the neon lights at the Fremont Experience, & it was one of the funnest experiences EVER! It was so freeing & exhilarating to fly across the neon lights in Downtown Las Vegas! It's definitely ALL a must do when you come down.(Rush tower at GN, Zip-lining under neon lights, the whole bit).

After our Fabulous trip to Vegas, we got back to business! Robbie (our son) was under the weather, so after a quick visit to the doc, & pharmacy......Off to the store I went, Just in time too, It was INSANELY BUSY this week! I saw a lot of old customers ( which I love) & I was able to dress up tons of fabulous women! After all, that is what I do BEST.
Friday night came around & I was invited to accept an award from a local networking group..."Las Vegas Ladies of Influence" I was honored to get nominated as an inspirational woman in Vegas, after a short speech & lots of mingling, we finally got home to our boys...
It's so funny, when you're young, you wanna be anywhere else other than HOME, I remember nagging my mom to take us to the mall when she got home from work, & I remember thinking.... "She NEVER wants to go anywhere" ... now, I'm the one who worships home, I'm sure it's hard to believe for a lot of people that don't know what it's like to live in Vegas, I mean really actually LIVE here, on the contrary of what you may think, we locals DON'T live in the casinos, we DON'T hang out there everyday, we just love it, like you LOVE your home. My home is......EVERYTHING! It's safe, it's relaxation, it's harmonious....It really is EVERYTHING, So it really takes a lot, to pull me away from my sanctuary. (although, I did get another mixer in this weekend, It was actually a brunch, with a great group of girls & needless to say, the dessert ALONE, was worth getting out of my PJ's for)!

Another must, Simon's at Palms Place for Sunday Brunch.....How could I NOT leave the house for this?

I'm looking forward to another JAM packed week! I was approached by the Junior League of LV, to do some mentoring for some high school students whom are studying Fashion Design, They are all competing this April in a contest & I'm excited to teach them the little that I know...I'm excited to sorta be the"Tim Gunn" of these girls for their runway project! So that should be Fun,.... And in closing, ( because lord knows, I could keep going) I'm looking forward to celebrate another birthday this week, for the ONLY other man that has inspired me as much as my hubby has,....my Dad. My dad, has to be.....one of the Most caring, positive, honest human beings on this earth, he always knows what to say, when to say it, & whom to say it to, He has taught me to NEVER give up, he has taught me that it's imperative that I NEVER change, & He has showed me that only REAL men cry. He too, like my Hubby, has an American dream story & He ALWAYS made sure our house was a HOME; I am so proud to be his daughter! So with that said, here's hoping you always appreciate your "Home Sweet Home" wherever it may be! & here's to my shoes of the week, that took me down memory lane! Hugs & Loves;PB

P.S. My Fave thing this week By far! is this necklace with the "KEEP CALM MOTIF", Designed by Lacey Valdez-Cowan with " Just Charms & Pretty things"...Now available at Patty's Closet!!!! or check out her facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/justcharms?sk=app_135607783795#!/justcharms.....Don't forget, Just follow my blog & enter to win ALL of my favorite things for march at the end of the month! Good Luck!!! (FYI THIS IS A GOOD MONTH TO GET ENTERED)

" My other half"

2011-03-07T16:19:00.000-08:00

In our line of business, everyday of the week seems to become "Mashed potatoes" our Friday, is NEVER really a Friday, & Mondays, sometimes feel like a Friday...It's weird, this week went by in a flash! I'm seriously sitting here, trying to remember last Monday, & I can't! I guess it was pretty uneventful....although we did get the ball rolling on the franchising, ( which is scary & exciting at the same time) But the point is, we have picked up one foot & DECIDED to put it forward.Why do we put so many ???? between Deciding to do something & actually doing it? I don't know either, But I do know in the end, they both have TOTALLY different outcomes.I'm excited to see what comes out of our actions.
Although this past week was your usual running around, I am very excited for this week to come, I have a meeting with our "Artfully Sweet committee" This event will benefit the So. NV children first charity...Last year I had the pleasure of meeting some pretty GRAND people, ( &I don't mean big & famous) there are 4 ladies: Monique, Pien, Sybil & Toni. They run this fabulous charity that helps out Homeless pregnant teens, can you imagine? Being a teen, Being homeless & as if that weren't enough, a PREGNANT one? Well, I was a pregnant teen at one point in my life....& I can't imagine. That's why I became so involved with these women, they teach the girls about getting a job,keeping it, budgeting, caring for their baby...& eventually putting them in their own home. Now that's something only someone GRAND does. Anyway this event will be on Apr. 2nd...it will have art for sale, while you eat sweets & sip wine....& at the same time you might be able to bid on a date with a firefighter bachelor!
This week is special as well, because my husband will be celebrating a birthday & 2 days later, we celebrate our anniversary, My husband is a very special person...( Not just cause he has to put up with me) seriously, he has the quintessential " American Dream" story. He came from another country at the age of 14 by himself, no money, taught himself English, went through many horrible circumstances, to be here..... chasing a dream. He is one of the most determined, passionate, hard working people I know, He is my idol, & I'm proud to be his wife. Someday, I will write a book about his story, so everyone can appreciate it like I do. Juan & I met working at the Hard Rock Hotel... 7 years ago,....we hit it off after discussing how we had a mutual hate for lies & childish games....we've been together ever since! I truly found my best friend, my soul mate, the best man for me, I am blessed. I love you babe!! Happy Birthday, Happy Anniversary...I can't wait to share what's next.

Our Wedding Was at the four Seasons here in Las Vegas 4 yrs. ago.

I get very sad for women we meet that tell us there are no good men left, I'm proof that's not true, But I can't help to wonder if sometimes women get too picky, I understand....you're educated, you want a educated man. You're a career woman, you want a man with a career. I'm not saying you need to settle, But in the end, I don't care who you are....Don't you just want a partner in crime? a REAL BFF? someone who tells you like it is, EVEN if it's something you don't wanna hear? So I don't see where the degree & the bank account come in to play? We as women are so complicated sometimes!...... So here's to finding your BFF,soul mate, Partner in crime, other half, or as we say in Spanish " Tu media Naranja" (The other half to your orange)... & here's to my Shoes of the week, that are occasionally my partners in crime. Hugs & Loves;PB.

P.S.Congrats to the winner of My favorite things for February!" Tiffany Hauck" ( I will contact) here's a pic of the first Fave thing for the March giveaway, just follow or subscribe to my blog & get entered to win ALL March items at the end of the month!

My new fave thing? It's a handmade purse, made from a vintage cigar box all Blinged out!We are selling hem in our stores now, I love how unique they are!!! courtesy of Marlene for "Island girlz jewelry"check out her Etsy store at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/islandgirlzjewelry

"Recognizing Treasure"

2011-02-28T08:40:00.000-08:00

This week started off in an awkward fashion, It was a holiday & we usually NEVER close, But we did. (one of the perks of being the boss). Anyhoo, we helped my in-laws move, & I'm kind of embarrassed to admit this, But, I like being able to look through other peoples junk, (Before you get the wrong picture & think you might see me on an episode of HOARDERS soon,... don't worry, you won't)...But, It's kinda hard to explain, as a creative person, I love looking through junk! My mind completely goes through 5 million beautiful things I can possibly make with a piece of junk! It's true what they say, "One man's trash, is another man's treasure." I know it's kind of weird, But at the same time it's kind of cool that at least my husband gets it! No one ever did, But he's now getting to know that when I stop & stare in silence at something, It's cause' something is brewing upstairs....he's almost looking at me like...wait for it..wait for it....LOL. Okay, so after filling up our car with my Mother-in-laws, toss it pile....we resumed our week, Tuesdays roll around & it's back to business, making our rounds, making sure all our girls are happy, meeting with anyone who's asked to see us... (usually it's to sell us something). You know, the usual!
This Tuesday was pretty interesting for me, One of the blessings that having a business has brought us, is getting the opportunity to meet so many great people along the way, (Don't get me wrong, sometimes you meet those, NOT SO GREAT ONES). But every good one you meet, makes everything worth it...along my journey as a Fashion Boutique entrepreneur, I have had the opportunity to style so many people! from local radio & TV personalities, to Magazine covers, It's really been a blessing. The last two covers I styled, I got the chance to work with a Fabulous celebrity hair stylist, Andeen Rose. She is Eva Longoria's Hair stylist when she comes into town...amongst many others, Well, she has become a good friend, & has seen something in me, she has referred me as a stylist a couple of times now..( Thank you Andeen;) This Tuesday, I was able to style an editorial shoot with Andeen, celebrity Make-up artist Debra Macki, & celebrity photog, Elise Donoghue.To be honest... the shoot itself, was the biggest gift for me...it took place at night on the strip, & the model was an 18 yr.old beauty "Olivia Lakis"....OMG, I hadn't been that inspired in a while! It was so empowering to be amongst such driven, confident women, The photog, Elise knew exactly what she wanted in the pic, Debra knew when Olivia need more lip gloss or shadow, Andeen knew when a strand of hair was outta place, Olivia, just hit every pose, like the she was Giselle, & the back drop....What can I say about Our jewel of a city! You see at this point in my life, what inspires me most about women, is watching their vision come to fruition, & I never realized, how much passion, creativity & time goes into creating those beautiful pictures we all see in the mags, But now, I am blessed with invitations to become part of THAT TEAM, the team that creates those beautiful pictures! It's really a dream come true, & even though I topped of the week with a nasty cold, because of it.....It was truly a GIFT.

Not so glamorous behind the chilly scenes!!

I also had our 2nd amazing get-together with the Busy B's...remember, a bunch of us that are always busy were gonna try to get together once a month for dinner? Well, this weekend was time for our February dinner, & it was awesome as usual, We are excited to change it up every month with some different activities & hope to create stronger relationships between us! It's so funny how it gets harder to make lasting friendships as you get older, your busy life just keeps you away sometimes, But when you do, It's a great one...Because you're adults now, you've hopefully been through a couple of things in life that make you less judgmental of each other. I guess it doesn't matter whether your presented with a new opportunity, a new friend or a old piece of furniture that is NEW to you, The important thing is recognizing that it's treasure.

Anyway, here's to making treasure outta junk & finding true friends whom you'll treasure......But most of all here's to my shoes of the week, that sometimes don't treat my feet like treasure: Hugs & Loves;PB

PS. here's my last fave thing for February! It's a Fab Barbie journal I found, I LOVE journals, This girly one especially, perfect for when you have to jot down those creative thoughts that pop in & out of you head!!! remember if you subscribe to my blog or follow it, I'll enter you to win ALL of February's fave things...I'll post the winner next week for this month..Good luck.

"shoulda, coulda, woulda"

2011-02-21T08:21:00.000-08:00

This week was pretty eventful, it started off with Valentine's day, (for those of you that REALLY know us, you know that everyday is V-day for us.) I am truly amazed at how many people HATE valentine's day! It's usually people that forget the day is about appreciating those around you, & NOT about the flowers & candy.Although my Hubby did get me a pair of shoes I've been slobbering over! (shh, don't tell anybody, but, I'm still a girl & even though I own a couple of stores, I still crave shoes & stuff from other places every now & then). On Valentine's day, I did an appearance on "The Morning Blend" for Channel 13, we did a segment on V-day makeovers, we had a casual, dressy & in between outfit on models,,,That's always fun. Tuesday rolls around, & we did our rounds to all the shops...meanwhile our son Robbie got sick, We met with several designers that will be selling their creations at Patty's, took a picture for the Las Vegas Business press publication & I fitted 6 Heart disease survivor models for the "Go Red Luncheon" & that took us to the end of the week!....I'm telling you, this is when all your woman, multitaskin' skills come in.

In meeting these amazing ladies that are part of the heart association, Everyone had an amazing story to tell, But, we came across one particular one named "Susan", she came in with her hubby of 50 yrs, Egor......They were...so inspiring, & lovely, together they battled Heart disease, cancer & so many other things, they really put things into perspective, Life is short, one day you wake up, get some unexpected news....& then What? All the shoulda, coulda, whoulda's come to mind....we have to make use of the time & opportunity's life grants us, Because you never know!

When you open up any type of business, you really grow to love it, it becomes your child, your pet, ONE OF YOUR LIMBS! Recently, we came to the conclusion that the next step is franchising, That's basically SELLING your child, pet or limb. Trust me, It took me a minute to get to this point, But i think I'm ready to take the next leap. I don't want to wake up someday & think" we shoulda, coulda, woulda done big things with Patty's Closet, But now, it's too late"....I've let it happen too many times before, Not this time....Things are about to change at the Closet, BIG things are about to happen.

Here's a quick snap shot of the Luncheon, I shared a great meal with great women & Fabulous stories with inspirational ones.

So until then, look at your opportunity's dead in the eye, and say " Not so fast, I've got you now." .....I promise, you won't regret it. Here's to new opportunity's & recognizing they are right in front of you, But most of all here's to the shoes that led me to MY opportunity's this week. Hugs & Loves,PB.

PS. This week my fave thing is our limited Patty's Closet Tee, I made these for the Woman's fair, & everyone asks about them, so I'm giving it away at the end of the month with all of February's Favorite things...Just Follow or subscribe & get entered to win.

"Fighting the good fight"

2011-02-14T01:20:00.000-08:00

You know how you tell a teen to enjoy being a teen, because once they're outta school, It's Work & responsibility time? Well, sometimes I wish, someone would've said, Once you own your own business, you have to keep re-inventing yourself, & always be on your toes, Because there's always someone trying to take your place. In business, There's ALWAYS a battle to fight, & maybe sometimes, you get to enjoy your mini victories, But most times, you have to look ahead enough, just to make sure you're headed in he right direction..
You see, just like having kids, there aren't any handbooks out there that teach you how to be good entrepreneurs, I mean there's Books on business, But not on making Patty's Closet Fashion Boutiques, successful, We just have to figure that out on our own.
This week has been a tricky one for me, It's been battle week, I fight with myself to keep creating, keep pushing, keep inventing, keep fighting a battle worth fighting.....& I'm not done yet.

This week had Ups & downs, But always action packed! I'm excited that I was able to meet some very interesting ladies, Jodi & Tonja from "Working Girls design" they design over 800 products with cute, clever, girly sayings & illustrations....I'm hoping to get there items in our stores soon. They were so inspiring,& I will be giving some of thier cocktail napkins as a favorite thing, I just LOVE them! I also met with a friend, whom is also an artist..Jessica Galindo, she creates awesome jewelry out of leather & grommets, we started to carry some of her items, & she graciously gave me an extra ring to giveaway as a fave thing...it's awesome she's one of my sponsors so check out her stuff...& last But not least, we come across so many promoters, especially club hosts, & in most cases we build relationships with most, so one of them brought us a fab basket from the sugar factory as a Thank You,...First of all, Bad idea...Cause I'm a sugar FREAK! & I LOVED the couture pop! it's a candy sucker, with it's own carrying case ( you know, in case you don't finish it) But the kicker...the stick is BLINGED OUT! No wonder Kim Kardashian & Holly Madison, endorse them, Shoot, I'd let them pay me in Candy!!! I know typically, it's NOT something I'd splurge on, But I had to get one to giveaway for my FAVE things!

This next week should be pretty interesting, I have the GO RED woman's luncheon fashion show @ the Paris, & an appearance on the Morning Blend ( Channel 13) & a photo shoot for LasVegas Business Press publication. ( a day in the life...AHHH.)

Anyway in honor of LOVERS DAY....I have to dedicate this post to MY LOVES, Juan ( Hubby), "Guapo" ( my son Robbie, means Handsome in spanish), & Coco ( our Dog).

MY LOVES

Juan, Whenever I'm Down, he picks me up. Whenever I cry, he cries with me & Whenever I'm excited he celebrates for me,.Patty's Closet was always MY dream, But only a true man was OK with making it HIS dream...I've said it before, & I'll say it again, With out HIM, there is NO me. I love you Babe! XOXO.
Guapo, was born in 1997, & he has changed my life 4EVER! He was born with down syndrome, I think without him, I would not appreciate the LITTLE things, I would not see the BIG things, & I would not be who I am today. I love you Bud! XOXO.
Coco, we rescued this past year, & I never realized or experienced the unconditional love that a pet gives you, without Coco, I'd have more moody mornings, & less socks laying around the house! Love U chocolini!

Until next week, Make time for love & Happiness....remember we only live once, so only fight the battles worth fighting......& usually those ALWAYS involve LOVE somehow.
Here's to you & your loved ones, and Here's to my shoes of the week, that don't always LOVE my feet. Hugs & Loves, PB..

PS remember, follow or subscribe to my blog in order to get entered to win ALL of February favorite things!

" I wanna be HUGE"

2011-02-07T09:48:00.000-08:00

Is it me or is there something so inspiring about February, It's no longer the beginning of the new year, yet you still have time to make the year ahead of you, what you want it to be, I had a usual week this week, ( By usual I mean...ordering, restocking, doing rounds at all locations, kid,school, dog, hubby, home... etc...) Lately, we have been with the thought of expanding, I know, I know it's sounds a little ridiculous, ( Or maybe it's just me) But once you've become a business owner, of a business or a concept that makes people feel good about themselves, You wanna spread it around! We are actually in processes of FRANCHISING. Secretly I'm like (AHHHHHHHHHH!) But, I know that people in Utah, Arizona,Texas, Colorado...shoot even he NW of Las Vegas need a taste of my Closet.
I'm not sure if your aware, But we have really become active in our community, ( I take lots of pride in that) and personally, I wanna be HUGE, & not because of the money, ( Please, for the amount of work you put into your business, you NEVER get paid enough.) But because through our business we have been able to make a difference in the community, In my Hometown, the place I had my first job at 16, & the place my son will have his first job. How can I not do something? How could I not want to be huge, & make a HUGE difference? I'm talkin' Oprah kinda huge. I'm sure some of you, ( Like my husband, Juan) Don't get the whole Oprah phenomenon, This weekend we got a chance to catch a show about behind the scenes at her show, & it happened to be about putting together her "Favorite Things" show, ( Even Juan became inspired, although he might deny it.) I think it's so Amazing how she has so much power, Yet she's one lady. It's not who she is, it's that she's only ONE person, That means.....It could be ME, or YOU. Frankly it gives me hope, & at a time in my life where Charity organizations are approaching me left to right to get new ideas outta me for fund raising, ME, little old ME? Really? someone, ( other than my husband) sees that I have a crazy, overwhelming, creative head on my shoulders worthy of making a difference in a unique way???..........That's exactly why, I wanna be huge.
So in honor of the big "O" & her Favorite things, I'm starting off my February, The month of LOVE, giving you some of MY favorite things, I will post a different Fave thing every week,,, at the end I will put all my followers names in a bowl, & that winner will get ALL the items shown for the month! now let's get real, I'm not huge yet, so they'll be no cars or ipads, But, these little things bring me some joy, so I'm gonna spread it around!
Until then, make the best of the Not so new year, Celebrate the month of love & friendship, and share some of YOUR favorite things with someone else! Here's to Huge new stories, Huge hugs for your loved ones & making a HUGE difference, But most of all, here's to my shoes of the week, that took me on a Huge journey this week. Hugs & Loves, XOXO.

PS. Congrats to last week's winner "Neah" ( I will contact) this week's Favorite thing is my fave nail polish color, "Lively Liliac" by Sally Hansen & Some mini 3-D nail art. I hope you enjoy all my fave things, just follow my blog & get entered to win all 4 weeks at the end of the month.

"Fashion show madness"

2011-01-30T21:11:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure I have the energy to even type this up right now, I have a case of fashion show madness disease! But here goes nothin' ...This week was jam packed with work, I told you last week we had a fashion show & woman's fair we we're getting prepped for...well it's over & Thank goodness its OVER! I seriously felt like I was planning a wedding! (There were 1000 ladies lined up at the door before the doors opened) Can you imagine the mad rush at our booth? Just imagine it, you have to think about what you want to sell there, if you even want to sell, you want to provoke people to want to visit the store, so you have to plan what the booth will look like, then you...order ALL the inventory you need ( in this case it was time for another shopping trip so I went in person) I even made some time to make some accessories to sell, It's the perfect time to test out my new creations! Then, you have to set up your booth a day before, meanwhile I was also prepping for the fashion show that was taking place during the woman's expo, so I had 7 ladies to do a fitting with, not forgetting they need: shoes, outfits, accessories & props if needed, What's their hair & makeup gonna look like?. After all that, I needed to have a script ready for the MC, which in this case was Chet Buchanan, from the Morning zoo on 98.5, he needs to know if the girl coming next is in leggings or skinny jeans. On top of all that, Do you want to do a raffle? a mailing list? giveaways or freebies?....Then when the storm is over, you need to breakdown your booth,which in our case a hurricane really did hit, & we really didn't have much to bring back other than props because we sold pretty much out!( That's always good)......AHHHH! I mean, just writing it out makes me tired! At least I actually took one pic, & this was the day before, without any merchandise or mannequins were out...

All while I can't forget that.....I have 4 stores, a son, a dog & a husband.....I am EXTREMELY lucky to have them as my family, my son is very low maintenance, our dog is very lovable & my husband,,,,,well what can I say.... He's is my right arm. With out him, there is NO me. So If anyone asks me, "How do you do it?"...I say, "That's How, having great people in your life that are willing to make your dream, their reality.".and it would be unfair of me to leave this out, lately I have had some help from an assistant, my sis- in-law (Maira)who lives in LA, But every now & again, she leaves her home to come & help!(Thanks Maira)...

What's next? (because you know, there's already something next.)Another fashion show, for a very special group of ladies! February is heart disease month, So we will have the pleasure of collaborating with The Heart association for this years luncheon, with a GO RED fashion show, I bet most of you didn't even know that Heart Disease is the #1 killer of women! (now you know). I will be dressing heart disease survivors! I start fittings this week. I'm super excited!!! I was also just invited to participate in an other fashion show, But this time as a designer....So that should be interesting! I'll keep you posted.

I have to admit there might be days where I just wanna do this:

& just run like the wind! But.....I think I'll stick around, as I get older & wiser, I have more fun fighting the everyday battles.

One thing is for sure....Rain or shine, Busy or slow, I always try to seek new opportunities to grow & seek time fall in love with my family all over again! Here's to new creations & great new love stories to tell! But most of all, here's to the shoes that didn't let me down this week! Hugs &Loves..PB

PS. Congrats to last weeks winner, Aggie ( I will Contact) she won the huge flower headband! This weeks giveaway is a pair of feather earrings I made to sell at the show, I was really inspired this week, They were a hit at the Expo! Just follow or subscribe to my blog & you will be entered to win!!!Xoxo.

"It's NOT as bad as you think"

2011-01-22T11:55:00.000-08:00

We're not even a month into the new year, & I already feel like we're in the middle of June! I think it's because my glass is full, ( I really mean spilling over.) Aside from doing our usual stuff of the week, You know Tuesday's shipment day check up, giveaways, dealing with Robbie & his school work, getting Coco neutered...Etc. It was a busy week again, ( Thank goodness). When you have a business, your always thinking ahead, (Sometimes you don't want to) But you almost HAVE too, so this week was really prep week for NEXT week, we have the Woman's Expo & Fashion show going on next week, & no one would ever guess how much prepping goes into exhibiting at those shows. We also have the pressure going on of the Best of Poll in the Review Journal, Every year people get to vote for their fave businesses in Vegas to get this prestigious award, Once you have won, all eyes are on you, wondering if it's gonna happen again, Let me tell you "It's not EASY, if it were, Everyone would do it," ( that's one of my dad's quotes), We had 2 in-store photo shoots we will be featured in, one for BLVDS magazine, & one for the Review Journal, those are always fun!
We also scheduled another charity fashion show (this might make #5 scheduled for this year) But this time it's for an organization totally new to me, "Hands of Comfort Non-Profit Foundation"..It was founded by an inspiring woman, mother of 4 who's husband committed suicide & found that there really is no hot line help here,,,"How come we always think our problems are the biggest? Just when you think your having it tough, someone comes along to remind you...It's not so bad right? So often we forget that while we complain about not knowing what we want to eat? we at least have a choice. or complain that our loved one made us angry, but they are still around to argue with....It's sad that we ( as human beings) always think we have it the roughest... Anyway, I'm excited to be part of her journey.


Kari (owner of retro bakery)Lori (PR & marketing for Station casinos) Jennifer ( Editor for LV woman mag)Dayna ( News 8 )Melissa(News 8)Tammy (owner LV woman mag) Brandi ( owner702west)Mercedes(Mark & Mercedes 94.1)

I did leave room for fun though, I became part of a special group of women, "The busy b%^@#s" We met for our first meet & it was fun, and laid back,(which is what some of us lack, In this fast track life) So that was fun. Lately I've been styling a lot more, this week I styled 3 women, & one of women was the ever so spunky Calvert Collins from News 8, she will grace the next cover of Las Vegas Woman Magazine, and I had to dresses her up to look like a 50's housewife....THAT was fun.


Calvert Collins ( Channel 8 news)

Anyhoo, that was my week, I try to ALWAYS make time for Love, Family & creating...Until next week Here's to a Fab new week, a great new story & new friends to be made But most of all here's to the shoes that held me up this week....Hugs & Loves, XOXO

PS..Congrats to last week's winner of my Fun Chunky Rope & Swarovski necklace, Tiffany (I will contact). My next giveaway is this huge fabric flower headband, with my vintage buttons (my fab find from last week) created by your truly, from my closet! just follow or subscribe & get entered to win!( will ship domestically)....Good Luck:)

"Getting my Creative mojo back"

2011-01-14T22:39:00.000-08:00

Man, oh Man! it's been an eventful week for my shoes! I'm not kidding.... Monday was back to school for Robbie, Order, Order, Merchandise. ( No wonder I'm so blind....Computers suck my eye juice out), and I was honored to be asked to join the New Vista Community Charity Committee this year, so we had our first meeting on upcoming events....and it's GONNA be a busy one! For those who really don't know much bout me, I had Robbie as a teen, & he has Down syndrome...So Juan & I, try to get as involved as possible! ( So far, I am in 4 committees this year) New Vista, is a Organization...That eventually would take care of our son, in the case that we we're not around any longer. It's hard to think about things like that, But as a mom It's important to me that I help out causes, That my son Might need at one point in time.

Enough about sad thoughts.....Tuesdays are always our new arrival days, so we basically run around to every store... like crazy people trying to see what came in, if we like the new vendors, if we didn't get something we should have, call them if they didn't send it, Yadda, Yadda, Yadda. We do videos on our new stuff to post on our site & social tools And this Tuesday was very special, Because our baby, turned 14! yes, I know, what you're thinking,...... But I wasn't 12 when I had him. No big party,( Robbie HATES parties) But obviously, a giant celebration of life.At this point, I'm beginning to think Tuesdays have less hours in the day, But that's just me.

This week I also had the chance to sneak in a shopping trip to L.A. With 4 stores to stock, sometimes I don't get the chance to travel out as much as I used to, But it's become one of my resolutions this year, I wanna get my creative mojo back ....Every December my creative meter is on "E"....So I needed to recharge, get out & see something ridiculous, inspiring, fun..........

"Si what I mean? L.A. NEVER disappoints!" Off, I was to visit one of my hidden secret places, that I discovered a couple of years ago, where I go & get great vintage trims, buttons, appliques...Everything! ( This place is like Costco for crafting) and I definitely fueled up on creative juice....I am excited to start creating again. I have to admit, sometime the most interesting part of a trip is simply sitting in the plane, & people watch, I picked up the magazine in the seat pouch in front of me, ( I usually have my own, But I didn't) & there was a article about a guy that tested out smiling at everyone for a day, just to see if it made a difference in his day, and according to the story it was a JOB for him, I guess we all get caught up in our heads, that we forget to make eye contact, or smile. My whole life, things have fallen into my lap, ( not always good) but I am a firm believer that there are no coincidences in life, and what's meant for me, no one can take away. So I need to take the time to remember, It wasn't always peachy, I didn't always get to do what I loved, and simply "Smile" Because Today, adversity needs to be scared of me.

I came back from LA, and I styled a friend for a Miss America event,and a Celeb DJ for a photo shoot, I simply live for these action packed weeks, because it keeps me on my feet and I'm definitely looking forward to this weekend, Since I will be having dinner with some VIP TOP SECRET ladies, I'm excited to get to know them better & have our own little "Secret Housewives of LasVegas group" Ha...Ha

Here's to a great new week, a new story, & new friendships ahead, But most of all here's to the shoes that helped me create this story; Hugs & Loves; PB.

P.S. Congrats! to our my last winner "Abigail Martin" she won the "Sexy Sweet feet" giveaway...This week I'm giving away one of my creations, simply follow or subscribe to my blog, and you'll get entered to win this Fun Chunky Rope & Swarovski necklace I made with my new found 2011 creative mojo, in my Shoe filled closet. "Good Luck."

"Forget me not, 2010"

2011-01-08T10:11:00.000-08:00

I've been procrastinating on starting this new blog, Sometimes I'm afraid of adding another item on my check list, ( it's simply in my nature, I won't deny it) But I think it's important. It helps me keep sane in a way, by writing my thoughts, ( I will totally deny the following if you bring it up, BUT....I'm totally starting to forget things!).

It's a new year, and last year went so fast I barely got the chance to soak in the fact that our stores were voted "THE BEST of LV"on several occasions, or that I actually competed in a pageant, or that I put on a first annual charity fashion show for our son's middle school chapter of Best Buddies ( a non-profit org). I did that? we lived that? I got so caught up in busy stuff, I still take a breather, when I remember I have a teenager, I guess I got busy trying to build experiences and forgot, to enjoy what I had already experienced..... Well Not anymore, Not this year, and even if I want to forget, it'll be here in good ole' Georgia font to remind me.

I guess you would like me to get to the good & juicy, THE SHOES, THE CLOSET (I have posted a quick tour video of the oh! so infamous closet)...oh yes,,,,I have to admit, I does peek my interest in looking in other closets, it really tells you if they're a purse girl, a clothing nut or one such as myself A SHOE FREAK! There's something about a great pair of shoes...It changes your strut...You know we've all put on that one pair, when you start trying to pull a Victoria secret model walk in your living room. ( Don't deny it)

If shoes changed Cinderella's life, whose to say they won't change mine?

OK, well believe it or not I don't just keep the obvious in the closet...I also LOVE to create stuff in it.... jewelry, hair stuff, if it sparkles, I make it... in my closet ( That is, when I get the time.) I know, it seems a little odd..But, what can I say? my closet inspires me.

I am super excited to start off a fabulous New Year, with my Husband, (Juan) son(Robbie) & dog, ( Coco) filling in the blank of 2011 with lots of Charity work, New friends, Great business, fabulous fashion and Tons of SHOES, Here's to you, My reader & Hopefully my new friend, may you open your door to all that this great new year has to offer.......yet, always taking the time to look back at the story you've already created!

Hugs & Loves, PB.

PS. I got a fabulous surprise in the mail.....a great giveaway perfect for our tired feet!!!!

It was a box from Sexy Sweet Feet, They are this cute versatile flat that come rolled up in a

cute little box, they come in 3 colors;& in a bag to carry your killer heels. A real MUST have, We will be carrying them in the stores ASAP! Just follow or subscribe to my blog on one of the right hand side icons and I'll enter your name in the giveaway! ( I will ship domestically).

(Thank you SEXY SWEET FEET)