Savvy & Divine Mamas

Go Get Out There!

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 18:11:00 +0000

Well I compiled a list of networking sites I've had the benefit of joining. If you want to network online first then want the option to be able to meeting great business-minded people locally, here's a good list that you'd like to consider...and just when you thought you needed another Myspace page! LOL

Ryze -Great for Business Networking. Talk about your Business. Join Groups.

Meetup -Great for Joining Local Clubs and meeting People within your area.

DirectMatches -Great for Networking. Profile your Business. Send emails to people whose skills you could use.

Ning - Great for joining countless networks or get bold with it and create your own network.

VA Networking -Specifically for Virtual Assistants

If I missed any, please comment with the proper linkage so I can add to this list. These are the one's I use.

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The Almighty Press Release

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 16:51:00 +0000

Nothing's better than publicity. Nothing's better than publicity than free publicity.

Alice Seba is an all-knowing powerhouse when it comes to internet marketing, articles, and things like that. I've grown fond of her material over the past year or so.

So there's this great article that gives a nice snapshot of how to write a press release. It can be costly to pay someone else to do it for you, and it's not really that hard to do yourself.

Enjoy!

Write Your Own Press Release

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So Busy!

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 20:44:00 +0000

Oh if I could only be in 20 places at once, but that's becoming increasingly hard.

When I finally get back, I'd like to talk about networking. It's so hard to spread word of what you do without coming across as full of yourself or as someone people don't want to talk to because you're always trying to pitch something. But hey, if you start a business and crawl under a rock, nobody's needs are going to be met and you're not going to get any results.

So upon my return, let's focus on networking and etiquette. Stay tuned!

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The Gourmet Experience

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:46:00 +0000

Well I finally found a home-based business that's going to be flexible like I so desperately need. There's nothing worse then signing into the direct sales market with quotas and required home parties. Not to mention the fact that you'll have to buy so much inventory and materials to get started.

So I joined the Scentsations team and so far I'm greatly impressed. I just signed on to the Candle of the Month and I get a candle, bath bar, and materials each month for 39.95 plus s&h.

I have a great sponspor, Jean Patton, and I'm on a team headed by a great husband and wife team, the Warrens. So far so good. I have to be honest, I didn't expect so much support, but everytime I call someone always answers. So this is a good fit so far.

Stay tuned!

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Finding Time to Succeed On Your Own

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:05:00 +0000

As you all are well aware, I'm a strong advocate for self-employment and entreprenuership. I've been working so hard at finding the balance between working for someone else and working in the wee hours of the night to make dreams come true.

So how do you do it?

Some people make it seem like it just happens overnight, while others can testify that they busted their behinds to finally be able to leave that 9-5 and control their own lives full-time.

All I can say is it takes great sacrifice of time to make things work for a business while you're working in the traditional workforce.

With committment and tenacity, we'll all get there. I figured at the end of my soul-searching that baby steps are better than no steps at all.

Just like a baby starts to crawl, then walks. The child may wobble a little, but before you know, you're chasing the kid all over the place.

Let that be your testimony. That committment is a key. If you stay committed you should see results.

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Going Organic

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:10:00 +0000

So all my local supermarkets now have those 'organic' sections of the stores. I thought it was fascinating at first because I don't have a Trader Joe's or Whole Foods where I live. So in the midst of getting my non-organic items, I was able to get some organic stuff.

I've been trying to eat healthier for a while now, but it still puzzles me what the big organic deal is about. I don't feel any different from eating an organic apple versus a regular apple. All I know is I pay a bit more for my organic groceries.

I do enjoy most of the organic things I buy though. I've really caught on to BearNaked Granola. It's really good and it keeps me munching at work all day. I can admit I'm a muncher. So that was on my shopping cart this past weekend.

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It's Time for Lunch

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:42:00 +0000

Cyberspace has completely given a new face to the dating scene. For some people it's a face-lift and they live happily ever after... but some people fall on their face.

The beauty about the internet is variety. Right from the first click you get to check out profiles, look at pictures, and make a 'first impression' decision as to if someone's worth your time.

So fast forward ahead. You've found an eligible person. You've been going back and forth through emails, had a few phone calls, nothing heavy but more decent conversation, and then the inevitable issue of meeting comes up. Honestly, you can only get to know a person but so much through emails and phone calls. You don't actually have that romantic potential until you meet and see the real person. It's called chemistry.

Well, what are you going to do? Honestly, it may be too soon for you to feel like preparing yourself for this evening of romance and all that, when you're really not sure if there's chemistry.

Solution:

It's time for lunch!

I've tried this and it took such a load off. You just simply meet the guy for lunch.

Here's why that works so well. You can meet in a public place, where people will most likely see you two together. (There are wackos on the internet...but that's another post.) For some reason, it just feels better to meet someone for the first time during the day. Also, you'll be better able to handle any awkwardness that brews. If there's no chemistry, you can simply have something planned as your route of escape to cut things short.

Now if things work out great, you'll have your dinner date, but you'll have an easier time with having lunch first.

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Savvy Interview: Wendy Keith from Lia Sophia

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 17:28:00 +0000

I believe in my last post Something that Sparkles!, I made a reference to getting an actual small interview with someone that's actually running a Lia Sophia business. After reading my post, Wendy Keith reached out to me with loads of information and details.

I asked her a few questions and she quickly got back to me with her personal account of being a Lia Sophia Advisor.

Check it out.

How did you come to be a representative for Lia Sophia? One of my friends went to a lia sophia party and she loved it so much that she joined. She invited me to her starter show and I liked so many items that they was now way I could buy everything. I was also at the time trying to find a part time job that I could work while the kids were in school. Trying to find a job where I could work the hours that I wanted to work and have the weekends off was impossible. So I decided to join lia sophia with my friend and it has been great fun. I recommend to find a friend to start with it is much more fun to have someone right there with you to help you out.
What do you like best about the Lia Sophia opportunity? For me it was the hours, I getto make up my oun schedule. I can be home with my family when they need me, and I can do shows when ever I decide is best for me. I love that you are not limited to where you can do your shows. This summer the kids and I jump in the car and went to five different states and had shows with friends and family members that I have not seen in a while. The best part was I get to use my vacations as a tax write off.
Do you work your business full time or part time? I am only selling lia sophia part time, because that is all I want right now. That is the great thing about this company, to stay an active advisor you only need to submit one she every 3 months.
How long have you been in business? I started with lia sophia back in April of 2007.
What are the costs to get started with Lia Sophia? The starter kit only costs $149.00. In your kit you get everything you need to start having your own shows. You get over $1000.00 worth of jewelry, display trays, catalogs, order forms, a bag to carry everything in, ring sizer, display cloth, a quick start guide, and more. It adds up to over $1100.00 worth of jewelry and business supplies.
What kind of support could a person considering Lia Sophia expect? The support is great. After you sign up to become an advisor you will get an advisor number so you can access the lia sophia web sites. The web site has all the info you need to get started. Lia sophia advisors also can sign up for online classes which are free. You will get phone numbers and e-mail for custormer support which will help you with anything you need. The most important support you will get will be your team mates. My team has it's own form at www.diamonddivasteam.com which is a great place to get informations and ideas.
How many parties do you have on a weekly basis? Your schedule is all up to you! Right now I usual have one show a week. Some of my team mates have 5 to 7 shows a week. On average with my 3 to 4 shows a month I am making a little over $1000.00 a month. My manager who has been with the company for two years now told me the other day she makes about $8000.00 a month, and her manager who started three years ago make about $12,000.00 a month. We have quite a few people in this company who are making over one million a year.
How often does Lia Sophia come out with new designs/catalogs? We get now catalogs twice a year. Our spring / summer catalog comes out in February, and our fall / winter catalog comes out in August.
Any words of wisdom for other women looking to get into direct sales? Go for it! The worst that can happen if you decide that this is not for you is; you spent $149.00 and got over $1000.00 worth of jewelry, you meet some new people, made some new friends, and got paid along the way!I hope this helps with ant questions you have. Call me or e-mail me any time. I would love to help you get started with your own lia sophia business.

Wendy Keith lia sophia Independent Jewelry Advisor

Call her to book a show, buy beautiful jewelry, or join her team and make extra cash.

You can see all of our jewelry at: Wendy Keith's Lia Sophia

Thanks again to Wendy!

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Revamped: Savvy Needs Love Too!

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 19:17:00 +0000

Hello folks,

I've decided to revamp Savvy Divine. I've been juggling thoughts on whether I should give my thoughts on relationships on this blog. My goal for this blog is to encourage women to tap into the wants and desires in their life that are left untended to. As I discover myself, I lend a hand to help you discover something about yourself. We help each other.

Anyway, I didn't want to create another blog. God knows I don't need 4! So I'm making my thoughts on relationships fit here. I'm by no means an expert or love coach, but I will make you think about if the new man you're talking to is worth your time. I'll relate with you on how hard it can be, at times to date when you're a fabulous, smart, and ambitious woman (even harder at times if you're all that and a momma). If anything, these posts will bring us closer.

So sit back and enjoy!

...and remember Savvy Divine needs love too. LOL

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Water?!...Ick!!

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 17:27:00 +0000

If you're anything like me, you don't like water. Not because you don't like it's healthy effects, but simply because it doesn't taste like anything. Now I know people that can turn any water up to their mouths. Doesn't matter the brand or whether it's tap or spring. They just drink it for drinking's sake.

I've spent most of my adult life trying to find substitutes for water, but after having the baby, I also noticed there's more to keeping my weight right than exercising and eating right.

Bloated?

You could very well need some water. When you don't drink water, it causes your body to retain water, making you put on weight. So there is a way to get rid of that baby pooch! :P

You learn something new everyday.

8- 8 oz glasses a day was really intimidating to me. So I searched the internet and I while I was yet again looking for water substitutions, I came across this great article.

Think You're Drinking Enough Water?

It also has a decent chart that gives you a way to estimate how much water you should be getting according to your weight and how active you are.

Sometimes there are no substitutes. Sometimes you just have to drink it!

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Make Money to Burn!

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 02:24:00 +0000

Well here's a nice side hustle for those of you working that 9-5. It's called Mia Bella Gourmet Candles. You can do it part time and it also has the potential to bring you full time and residual income. All you have to do is burn a candle.

You heard me right. Just burn and earn, Baby!

I've come across a few scented candles in my time. I mean, who doesn't love scented candles? You can light one and smell your whole home or office up. You could turn the lights down and set a relaxing mood with a nice scent.

What turned me on to this opportunity was the fact that it had the most flexible earning plans. Other companies were set up where you had to sign on 20 people before you could get a full-time income. Mia Bella has lots of ways for you to run your business. Also, you're not stuck in having those home parties where you have to convince a living room full of women why what you have to offer is so great.

One thing I learned from Mia Bella is that all candles are not created equal. There are some candles (most of the more popular brands) that are made of harmful and unnatural ingredients. Mia Bella gives a cleaner burn. Mia Bella boasts soy for their candle creations and your home (not to mention your nose) gets every harmless whiff.

I ordered a sample and I was blown away by the quality of these candles...so they deserved a post. I can recall how some scented candles didn't do too well once they were actually burning. Like they only smelled nice when they were solid and would just smell like burning wax once I lit them. The strength of their scent would waver. Not Mia Bella though. I wasn't afraid to burn my candle and the scent really lasts.

Check them out here. (This will take you to the main website of the CEO of Mia Bella)

So send for your sample. I'm definitely enjoying mine.

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Who Do You Think You Are?

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:39:00 +0000

So.....Who Do You Think You Are?

I was reading a book this morning called Wildly Sophisticated and this question really struck something within me. The author, Nicole Williams, was asked this question by an executive that she had shown a business plan to. Like many young women, Nicole had goals and passion. She was ready to take on the world but when this question was posed to her, she seriously was taken aback and had to take inventory of herself. She simply told the executive, "That's a good question." Then excused herself.

The executive wanted to know why she felt qualified to do what she wanted to do with her business because there were people that were more educated, older, and more experienced than she who supposedly 'had it all together'. They had tried and failed.

So is that a death sentence to her goals and dreams? Absolutely not!

We can't control the chance that there are people more educated and experienced in the world. What we can control is our attitude and work at our own pace.

This happens to women everyday. People question our ability based on our outer appearance, lack of credentials, and background. The reality is that if we don't believe in who we are it's going to be hard to convince people that don't know us well our worth. So it all starts with confidence and the belief that you can make anything happen.

Are You Afraid of Change?

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:44:00 +0000

I've heard many times that some people are afraid of change. I was like "How can someone be afraid of change?"

It's true though. There are those of us that can't get to the next level because we're afraid of change. Rather than embracing life changes, we keep things the way they are in our life. We get comfortable.

Comfortable with debts.

Comfortable with a mediocre job.

Comfortable living paycheck to paycheck.

Comfortable doing everything on our own.

Sometimes we need help. Sometimes we need others. Sometimes we just need CHANGE.

What in your life needs to change?

This post isn't meant to make you miserable. It's meant to make you think and move forward in your life.

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Have You Checked Your Scores?

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:28:00 +0000

Just when I thought the scariest score in the world was the SAT scores, I learn about Transunion, Experian, and Equifax. It opened up a whole new can of worms.

So what does your score look like? No...Don't tell me, but instead look at it yourself.

You know those 3 scores could mean all the difference in the world if your bank approves your business loan and the interest rate attached to it. It can even mean the difference between if you get a job or not. Just imagine going to an interview and having it go extremely well, then you get a call that you can't get the position because there's something unfavorable lurking on your report.

I've learned that some people don't check their reports because they're afraid of what they're going to find. With the threat of identity theft lurking around, it's best to check it quarterly just to make sure John Smith and Jane Doe aren't taking advantage of your financial situation, whether it's good or bad. You know some identity theives actually prey on those with not so good credit standing, specifically because they don't think these people pay attention to bills and what the credit bureaus have on file. So if your credit looks like you haven't paid on anything in a while, they'll think you don't look at it at all. There are ways for you to get your credit report for free. You might have to pay a little extra for the scores themselves though, but either way you'll be glad you did.

Don't be afraid to fix whatever dings and dents are on your report. Make this year the year you get at least one thing right. That's right, I said ONE. Don't try to tackle the whole report at once. You may see so much that it discourages you from doing anything.

So just focus on one creditor at a time and establish a plan. Track your progress and then build on that. Even if your scores are sparkling, check it anyway. About 80% of all credit reports may be inaccurate or questionable. You can see if there's anything you might need to dispute, even if your name is spelled wrong or they got one of your addresses incorrect. More importantly though, you'll be able to see where you stand so you can plan for your financial future, be it personal or professional.

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Stay On Top of Things with PinkOffice!

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 14:01:00 +0000

This woman on the bus had a tote bag with a web address on it. Being the ever curious business person, I went to the website to see what it is. Well I'm so glad I did. I found a great resource. It turns out Pink Office is an all in one business management tool. It helps you keep your business afloat by managing everything from email to invoices. It even receives secure payments for you. You can track your sales and even manage your tasks and calendar.

I was even more blown away when I looked at the price just $71.40 for the year. I was like "Where have you been all my life?". LOL.

I encourage you to check it out. When you're starting a small business it can be so hard to keep organized. Thank the heavens there's something like Pink Office to help us out!

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Happy New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 20:55:00 +0000

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More Business Plan Help

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 16:53:00 +0000

The New Look

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 16:46:00 +0000

Well I haven't been too gung-ho lately about the template Blogger had to offer our home here, so I ventured out to find another (free) template. I hope you like it. It's a lot more fun to look at.

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Some Useful Business Plan Videos... More to Come!

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 20:37:00 +0000

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Planning to Succeed- The Business Plan

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 21:01:00 +0000

I was reading a chapter in my Virtual Assistance book last night and it pressed the issue of the business plan.

Call me silly, (Because I am!) but I was thinking, "What do I need a business plan for? I'm not going to the bank to ask for money....Hey! I don't even have much money!"

What I didn't know about the business plan though, that I know now, is that it helps you establish all the goals for your business and define your business. So here's a snapshot of what should be in one.

The Components of a Business Plan

Cover Sheet. (This should announce your business name, logo, contact info, and your title)
Your mission statement. (Why are you in business?...What are the thoughts, mantras, or values behind your business concept?)
Goals (What is your business going to be doing? Do you have other partners in your business?)
Objectives (Draw out your goals and think long term. This is actions that get to filling your goals. They should have time measurements attached: e.g. In 8 months, I'll have 3 clients. These are acheivable means of success for your business.
Operations (Who's doing what, when, where, and how.)
Finances (What you have now and what you may need in the years to come.)
Sales & Marketing (How are you putting yourself out there? How are you retaining clients or customers?)

These different sections can be as broad or as narrow as you can dream. You may only be working from a home office one day, but the point is to write about every aspect of your business. That makes it easier for them to become a reality and the planning will aid in your success.

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What Do You Look Like?

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 20:23:00 +0000

This post was inspired by my visit to a Empress Mag , which happens to be my guilty pleasure as of late. With the new year coming, we all make decisions about goals and resolutions about what needs changing in our lives. Have you ever considered your wardrobe though? I've noticed that since I had my daughter, my fashion isn't what it used to be. Not that I can't pull it off anymore, there's just minimal time between work, school, and business. Some times though you have to MAKE time. I'm learning to do that.

The world we live in is superficial, before you say a word, people assess you by what you're wearing. They notice if your clothes fit, if your top is cut too low,or if your skirts too short. This has NOTHING to do with the labels you wear and everything to do with how you wear your clothes and the care you take in your appearance. So it's important that we put our best foot forward as much as we can.

I encourage you this year to add some fashion forward resolutions to your list for the new year. Even if it's something as small as changing the color lip gloss you've been so faithful to all through 2007. Try something new, then take another small step to change your top and skirt. Some fashion shows make it seem like you have to have thousands of dollars and have to do a complete makeover overnight. When really all you need to do is make changes as your schedule permit.

So what do you look like?

Hopefully this time next year, you'll look even better than you do this year!

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Learning How to Spread the Word

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 20:04:00 +0000

As a Savvy Divine Mama, I'm all for learning how to do things yourself. Especially when you don't have disposable income to just throw into a venture. This rings true for small business too.

Long gone are the days where you had to hire PR people to send letters out to journalists and even after all that, hope that word of your business or venture would appear in the local news. Due to the Web, you can now tell anybody about what you have going on yourself. With a little coaching and writing skills, you can get your own publicity to get your venture off the ground.

I came across this free resource today, while I was looking into developing a Press Release for my Virtual Assistance business. It might prove helpful to you too.

Press Release Tips

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Something that Sparkles

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 18:18:00 +0000

I've always been a fan of direct marketing jewelry businesses, though I'm still doing my homework on a lot of opportunities, I believe I've found one that really brings quality to the fashion jewelry market. It's called Lia Sophia and I was blown away when I looked at their online catalog.

Instead of jewelry that looks too 'costumey' like some other home party companies I've seen, I really enjoyed the upscale look of Lia Sophia. Not to mention the fact that they have a sizeable selection of rings. Rings are always my accessory of choice.

I'm not a Lia Sophia advisor, so don't take this post the wrong way. I just wanted to spread the knowledge. I'm looking for an actual advisor to interview about Lia Sophia, so I can give you a more informed decision.

We'll see what happens when I actually get my catalog in the mail.

Lia Sophia

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Staying Fit

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 15:11:00 +0000

We eat so much during the holidays. I lost count of the slices of sweet potato pie I ate after Friday. With all the delicious calories, I've been thinking about my waistline. I'm looking into getting an exercise regime back together. I was doing great, but work took over so I couldn't get in my aerobics like I liked.

I have all the Turbo Jam videos. They're a lot of fun and I can see the results. The problem is I'm only home long enough to focus on my daughter and go to bed for the next day. So finding even that 20 minutes to work out has become a chore.

I've never been a fan of Yoga or Pilates, but I'll kick, run, and jump. I don't like floor exercise. I'd rather use a treadmill or elliptical machine. (Stationary bike: for those of you that don't know what an elliptical is.)

These small things can keep you fit during when you don't have time to be fit.

Take walks on your lunch break
If you sit behind a desk, get up and move around the office.
If you can avoid it, don't eat lunch at your desk.
After work, take your kids to the park or some other physical activity...and PARTICIPATE! (This is also a good way to get your kids to go to sleep for the night.)

Really need structured exercise time?

Wake up earlier to accomodate an early morning run, or video.
Schedule exercise like you schedule other appointments.
Sign up with a personal trainer.
Join an exercise group that will help you stay committed.

I figured the colder months are a great time to get your body together for the summer. Imagine this, you're all bundled up all winter exercising and getting it together. Then May comes and the clothes come off and you're like 'Pow!'. Great physique and getting noticed.

I spent the past summer still hiding the differences in my body after the baby. So now I have to get creative to fit exercise in.

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DIY: Baby Food

noreply@blogger.com (*>Jewels<*) — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 23:20:00 +0000

Well when I first learned I was going to be a mother, I wondered what my child would be like. (I say 'child' because I didn't know she was a 'she' yet. :))

Anywho,

My daughter's at the point now where she eating fruits and vegetables. Well one day I realized I ran out of Gerber's. I couldn't make it to the store. (What mom can drop everything and head to the store when a toddler's hungry?)

So I blended some vegetables. I've gotten lots of frozen veggies and ground them down really good. She's really lovin' the fresh vegetables. I did a taste myself and they're just as pure. They're probably more pure than the packaged stuff I've been adamant about buying her.

It's a little extra work, but I feel good that I can keep her full and that her dinner can match whatever vegetable I'm eating at the time.

So here's some things you'll need to make your own baby food.

1. small containers (you can reuse old baby food bottles to get the portions right)
2. blender
3. fresh vegetables (green beans, carrots, sweet peas, etc)
4. your kid's favorite spoon and bowl

Happy Eating!

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