Uptown Girl Designs

Spotlight Boulevard :: Chic Mama

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 20:50:00 +0000

Hello friends! TGIT! Yes, thank goodness it's Thursday... and for Spotlight Boulevard! I know I have said this before but Thursday has quickly become my favorite day of the week because I feature a savvy and chic woman owned business. Women are rocking the world with their amazing businesses and I am not only happy to be one of those women, but also to have had the pleasure of making so many connections with these women. Some I have met face-to-face, and some I know only through their avatars and witty and engaging Tweets! Either way, I am thankful to be connected to them in some way.

I had the chance to meet this week's savvy and chic MOMpreneur, Adriana D'Arco owner of Chic Mama Diaper Cakes and More, last summer at the Westfield Baby Expo. I was located not too far from her exhibit space and was scoping her out her gorgeous diaper cake creations all night. I was thrilled when I finally had a moment to go over and introduce myself and see her products up close. Now, I have been to many baby showers and I have even made a diaper cake myself before, but nothing ever as well designed & styled as these! Chic Mama diaper cakes are are not just a bunch of diapers adorned with a few baby chotchkes. Chic Mama diaper cakes are charming and sophisticated!! They are bright, bold, unique, beautiful and uber CHIC! There is a design for just about any baby shower theme.

How amazing would these be as the table center pieces at a baby shower?? Not sure what to send as a gift to a new mom? Forget the flowers! Moms-to-be need diapers more than anything! AND, Chic Mama also has an eco-friendly collection of diaper cakes! See, savvy and chic! Adriana also offers custom diaper cakes designs, as well as towel cakes and many other great items for the chic mom-to-be! There is something for anyone throwing a baby shower or gifting a new mom.
Adriana has so very graciously offered up a 10% coupon for all Uptown Girl readers starting today and good through March 17, 2011! Enter code CM1002 upon checkout. Read on as I had the chance to ask Adriana my top 5 favorite questions and then to learn a few fun facts about this chic mama!

Chic Mama website: http://www.chicmamadiapercakes.com
facebook
Twitter

The FIVE... with Adriana D'Arco from Chic Mama

Q: What was the inspiration for starting your business?

My true inspiration for my business are my children. I had been working in the corporate world for so long and found myself missing important moments in my children’s lives, or just being too stressed and busy to pay attention. I came to the realization that I needed to take a step back and find a way to be able to focus more on my children while still being able to continue my career. That is when the idea for Chic Mama Diaper Cakes was born.

Q: What were some of the challenges that you have faced?

My biggest challenge has to do with time. It seems that the hours just go by too quickly in a given day. Although, after reprioritizing aspects of my life, I am finally finding a way to incorporate my business, my volunteer work, MYSELF, and most importantly, my family into each day. I now know that I just need to take one thing at a time. When my children come home from school, my focus is completely on them.

Q: How do you find balance between “real life” and being a super female entrepreneur and/or MOMpreneur?

It’s a decision you have to make for yourself. I always put work and household chores first…I think it has to do with my Type A personality. I made a very specific decision last year to put my family and my own health first. I make sure to incorporate the gym into my daily schedule and have an energy level that I haven’t had in years. When school is over, I officially become the “soccer mom” and run from one practice to the other. When they have gone to bed, I get back to work if needed. It’s a system that is working very well for all of us.

Q: What advice would you give to other female entrepreneurs just starting out?

Believe in yourself! I can honestly say that I would have never thought I would own my own business. If it wasn’t for the complete support of my husband I would not have been able to do it. He encourages me each day and believes in me. I now believe in myself too!

Q: What is up & coming for your business?

Hmm….my main goal right now is continuing to get my name out there. I continuously add new diaper cake designs and hope to continue to grow my product line with more “chic” items for the modern mom.

The TEN... with Adriana D'Arco from Chic Mama

1. I was made in Uruguay, South America but born in New Jersey.

2. I am fluent in Spanish.

3. I have one tattoo and at the age of 36 would love to get another one.

4. In my next lifetime I hope to be a ballroom dancer.

5. My favorite arcade game of all time is Ms. Pacman.

6. My guilty pleasure is Reality TV.

7. I MUST have chocolate once a day.

8. I am a truly dog person but have the best cat in the world!

9. I have a degree in Accounting and LOVE spreadsheets!

10. My children look nothing like me…100% their dad.

Spotlight Boulevard :: Sassy Glass Shop

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 16:21:00 +0000

Hello Hello! I hope this Thursday finds you happy & well! I for one am feeling great and full of energy, and might I even dare say... sassy! It's in the air with spring coming. Do you feel it too? No? Well, then maybe this week's featured woman owned business on Spotlight Boulevard will ignite that spark of sassiness! I am so happy to finally feature Lisa Gifford Mueller from Sassy Glass Studio!

Let me begin with saying how much I adore Lisa! Not only is she super down to earth but she is is so passionate about her businesses and teaching and connecting with others. I love that! And, yes.... I said businesses! Lisa runs Sassy Glass Studio which handcrafts one-of-a-kind fused glass art. The collection is stunning and Lisa also offers custom pieces as well. In her shop you will find beautiful works of art, so spirited and colorful. Bowls, plates, frames and jewelry! I love the funky cocktail rings! The home good pieces would be a fabulous house warming gift! With Mother's Day around the corner a fused glass art necklace would be something so special and unique.

That's some serious sass, right?? Lisa actually teaches classes too! Another great gift idea for someone or even yourself! Lisa's creativity doesn't stop at the kiln. Remember, I said businesses. When Lisa is not strutting her sassy creating fused glass art, you will find her behind the lens. She has a professional photography business with her hubby called ALM Photo! AND, Lisa also just launched something so cool called Creativity Central, which offers workshops to creative business people.

Lisa was so cool to answers some Q's and tell a little about herself. But even cooler... Lisa is offering an Etsy coupon for Uptown Girl readers!! Use code UPTOWN10 to save 10% through March 24, 2011! Thanks Lisa! You're seriously sassilicious!

Sassy Glass Studio contact info:

website: www.SassyGlassStudio.com
facebook: www.facebook.com/SassyGlassStudio
twitter: @AllThingsSassy
ALM Photo contact info:
website: www.ALMPHOTO.COM
twitter: @almphoto

The FIVE... with Lisa Gifford Mueller from SASSY GLASS STUDIO

Q: What was the inspiration for starting your business?

My inspiration for starting Sassy Glass Studio was actually my sister-in-law, Mary Jane, who had started Sassy Glass Studio as a hobby. One day she decided she wanted to down-size her hobby and asked if anyone in the family wanted to take over the glass and kilns. I jumped at the chance and once I mastered creating fused glass art I realized it was a great business opportunity. I guess the inspiration for my version of Sassy Glass Studio was the opportunity of endless possibilities of creating, marketing and teaching.

Q: What were some of the challenges that you have faced?

The first challenge I faced was how was I going to find buyers for my fused glass art. I knew I wouldn’t be mass-producing items so a retail type environment wasn’t an option, so I decided to focus on what I called ‘@Home Shows’ which were sort of like a Tupperware party. This worked well for a while until I got frustrated with packing and setting up my heavy, delicate glass constantly. So I decided to do art shows as a way to share my one-of-a-kind fused glass art with the masses. This was even more difficult because it was expensive to exhibit at the shows and the days were long and there was no guarantee that I would sell anything. It wasn’t until I discovered Etsy {etsy.com} that I found an outlet for making sales and getting the word out about my art.

Q: How do you find balance between “real life” and being a super female entrepreneur and/or MOMpreneur?

This is a really great question for a couple of reasons. Not only do I run Sassy Glass Studio but I also have a professional photography business with my husband. Talk about a challenge and finding balance! I try to be consistent with carving out personal time for not only myself but for us as a couple. Working with your spouse can really blur the fine line between being together and ‘being together’. One bit of advice I always give other entrepreneurs is to make time for themselves to keep their body, mind and soul happy.

Q: What advice would you give to other female entrepreneurs just starting out?

Ask a lot of questions. Do a ton of research. Find a mentor. No matter what industry you are in there will be someone you can get advice or learn from. Also, plan your business for success but don’t be afraid to make mistakes. If you are a creative business person, take time out from the business side to focus on your creativity. It’s important to remember why you are in business. Most importantly, just do it. If you have a great idea that will solve a problem or fill a need or create something nobody else can, don’t wait for the ‘right time’ because the right time is now.

Q: What is up & coming for your business?

Sassy Glass Studio is offering classes at the beginner and intermediate level that are a great way to learn something new and create some art at the same time. I have also launched Creativity Central offering workshops to creative business people especially those who sell or wish to sell on Etsy. On the photography side of things, I am a partner in a brand new business offering video tutorials on-line as well as a forum-based community where photographers can come together to connect and learn. Going into 2011 everything about me and my businesses is focused on growing, teaching and connecting.

The TEN... with Lisa Gifford Mueller from SASSY GLASS STUDIO

{1} I am obsessed with Hello Kitty

{2} My super hero persona is Kitty Fantastic

{3} I am not embarrassed to admit the first two items

{4} I eat almost every meal with chopsticks

{5} I ride an adorable scooter with blue & white flowers all over town when the weather is nice

{6} I am that person who dances like no one is watching

{7} I can never remember the punch line to a joke

{8} Don’t tell my husband, but I am having a morning love affair with both Mr. Elliptical and Mr. Coffee

{9} I started a new Summer sport- bee petting – and have the photos to prove it

{10} I love NASCAR, monster trucks, wrestling and UFC

anything but a face :: an {i heart faces} weekly challenge

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 17:07:00 +0000

The title of this challenge made me laugh but I "get it" because the "anything but a face" pictures are some of my favorite photos to take. To me photography is about telling the whole story. Not just snapping pictures of people or their faces, but capturing the whole scene. From some flowers on a table to the shoes on people's feet. This particular photo was taken during a trip to Terhune Orchards for pumpkin picking. The kids climbed up on the fence to get a better look at the goats, but I loved how Woody was kind of carelessly hung. If he could really speak I think we know exactly what he would be saying. I also love how it totally captures life as a kid, when you can climb up on a fence with a buddy and all is great in the world.

Spotlight Boulevard :: Tiny Giraffe Shop

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 14:52:00 +0000

Happy day! It's Thursday which is quickly becoming one of my favorite days of the week! The day I put the spotlight on another woman owned business! Have I mentioned before that one of the things I enjoy most about having my own business are the connections I have made with other women in business? If not, then I'll tell you now, because it's true, one of the things I love the most about having my own business is the connection I have made with other women business owners! It continually amazes me the immense talent I come across on a daily basis. Not to mention the great enthusiasm these women have for their businesses. Their passion is contagious. It affirms that no matter what walk of life you come from, anything is possible. If you put your mind to it, you can be marvelous.

Speaking of marvelous... I think you'll agree that this week's spotlight is simply, pretty darn marvelous! It's Amy McGrath from the super cute Tiny Giraffe Shop!! This is a MUST SEE shop that sells classic wooden blocks for baby. I just adore the chic and modern, yet vintage, look to them! A sweet addition to baby's nursery, Tiny Giraffe wooden blocks would be perfect on a decorative shelf. I also love that the blocks are eco-friendly and non-toxic so when baby is old enough they have a great toy to play and grow with. You can also purchase a drawstring bag hand stamped with the child's first name. An excellent gift for a mom-to-be!

I'm right... right?? Simply, pretty darn marvelous! Amy happily shared a little about the inspiration behind Tiny Giraffe Shop and life as a MOMpreneur. Amy has also offered a sweet deal... save 10% on orders through March 3, 2011 when you use the checkout code UPTOWN10. Thank you so much for that offer Amy!

Tiny Giraffe Shop contact information:

shop: www.tinygiraffeshop.com

facebook: www.facebook.com/tinygiraffe

twitter: www.twitter.com/tinygiraffeshop

The FIVE... with Amy McGrath from Tiny Giraffe Shop

Q: What was the inspiration for starting your business?

Tiny giraffe is the perfect balance between my passion for creating and love of business. After graduating with a degree in economics, I worked in the music industry and loved every minute of it. I was fascinated and excited by the music biz because it’s where the arts and business come together in a remarkable way. With the birth of my first daughter, I made the decision to give up working in music to start my most exciting job yet: raising my children. I created tiny giraffe as an outlet for my creative and entrepreneurial energy.

Q: What were some of the challenges that you have faced?

The biggest challange for me has been the very same challange all of us moms face: taking care of our family, ourselves, and a business is one big juggling act. Finding balance and maintaining that balance is something I'm always trying to improve upon.

Q: How do you find balance between “real life” and being a super female entrepreneur and/or MOMpreneur?

I try to schedule in time where I know I can get a few hours of work in. I do bits and pieces throughout the day when I can, but the bulk of creating is done at night or on the weekends. As long as I am able to plan ahead and schedule time to work, I find that I better able to balance family life and tiny giraffe.

Q: What advice would you give to other female entrepreneurs just starting out?

When I first started out, I didn't realize the impact that social media would have on my business. tiny giraffe has been active on facebook and twitter for only the past eight months, and I am astonished by how many opportunities and actual sales are generated from it!

Q: What is up & coming for your business?

I'm working on developing the Paper Doll blocks line, as well as a new alphabet set concept for this coming fall. There's some exciting press coming out this spring, so tiny giraffe should be super busy in the coming months!

The TEN... with Amy McGrath from Tiny Giraffe Shop

1. I play the violin

2. I'm an only child

3. I wish I knew how to sew

4. Nutella is my favorite food

5. I played softball in college

6. I'm addicted to the Real Housewives shows (NY, NJ, BH)

7. I have two little girls who I love to put in the same outfit, but in different colors

8. Once went on the road with They Might Be Giants

9. I hate raisins

10. Favorite item to buy on Etsy: holiday & birthday tees for my little girls!

phone photo :: an {i heart faces} weekly challenge

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 18:40:00 +0000

Enchanted by the falling snow, may daughter sat in the window and I knew I had to capture the sweet moment. The perfect way the light is surrounding her, enhancing the little bun on the top of her head. I just love everything about this moment.

Spotlight Boulevard: Twirlie Whirlies

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 13:05:00 +0000

Hello & happy day to you! For those of you that know one of my favorite things to do is post about my favorite things, namely highlighting those who I think are super cool and amazing women entrepreneurs. I have been calling these features "my favorite things". BUT really these super cool and amazing women are not "things". That and the little fact that there's this other super cool and amazing woman who already has made a name for my favorite things. So, that said, I'm thrilled to announce today will begin Spotlight Boulevard! I want to put the spotlight on super cool and amazing women and the road they have traveled to get where they are today, and also see the journey they are hopeful for in the future.

Today on Spotlight Boulevard is the seriously super cool, crafty, and a girl of my own heart being a confessed chocoholic, Shannon Torossi from Twirlies Whirlies! Let me just start with the name of her company, is it not just perfect?? If it wasn't clearly as obvious as it was to me when I first came upon it, Twirlie Whirlies are handmade paper party accessories! Ya know... Pinwheels!! Yet, these are not your typical plastic pinwheels meant to fan the garden gnomes in your backyards. Twirlie Whirlies are handcrafted using gorgeous, high quality scrapbook paper! And, you know me and paper. SWOON!

Twirlie Whirlies are fun, chic and classy! A perfect favor or decoration for a kids party! Twirlie Whirlies has even caught on as a 'Buzz Trend' in the February 2011 issue of Brides Magazine!! They can be custom made to jazz up any event you are planning!

Twirlie Whirlies also offers more darling handmade goods such as banners, flags, party hats, and favor boxes just to name a few of the party delights! You can check out all the fun at http://www.twirliewhirlies.com or shop at either Etsy, Etsy2 or Artfire. You can also follow Shannon on Twitter or the blog. Keep reading as I ask The FIVE and find out The TEN from the girl behind the whirl!

The FIVE... with Shannon Torossi from Twirlie Whirlies

What was the inspiration for starting your business?

My sweet little man Sebastian is my inspiration. It all began while I was searching around for some fun decorations for his "big boy bedroom". He will never know a life without a pinwheel.

What were some of the challenges that you have faced?

There have been a lot of challenges but I think the main one has, and will always be, time. There will never be enough hours in the day to do everything I want or need to do.

How do you find balance between “real life” and being a super female entrepreneur and/or MOMpreneur?

lol - who says I'm balanced? I am the most off-centred person you will ever meet! But, I do try to involve my family with my work whenever I can. My husband gets the title of "Quality Control Manager" and has the job of looking over the orders before they are mailed (and he is a tough critic - he DOES make me redo stuff). I can't wait until Sebastian is old enough to take on a few more duties for me but for now, he makes sure that all the pinwheels twirl!

What advice would you give to other female entrepreneurs just starting out?

My best advice would be "don't try to rush it - everything will come in time". You may have a million great ideas but just start off with one or you will get overwhelmed.

What is up & coming for your business?

Right now I can't think past today. This time of year is busy scheduling in all of the upcoming wedding orders so that has been top priority. This year I got a bit of a boost by having one of my pinwheels featured in the "Buzz Trend" section of the February 2011 issue of BRIDES Magazine. Definitely a thrill. I think my main business goal, though, will be to stay ahead of the holidays and get my themed items up early!

The TEN... with Shannon Torossi from Twirlie Whirlies

1. I have a degree in Architectural Technology.

2. My nickname as a child was "Buckwheat". I have no idea why.

3. I started snowboarding when I was 30.

4. I've been pierced 9 times but only 2 are still in existence (piercings and children don't get along).

5. Everybody thinks I should have a tattoo. I don't.

6. I have to wear a teeth grinding night guard to bed (really attractive).

7. Music is my passion, yet I don't dance. EVER!

8. I'm registered as a potential donor on the Canadian Blood Services OneMatch Stem Cell and Marrow Network

9. I am a confessed chocoholic - currently in rehab

10. I love horror movies.

{Lala's Cookie Jar}

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 14:41:00 +0000

Greetings all!! I have a super sweet addition to my favorite things this week... {Lala's Cookie Jar}! I met the owner, Andrea Festa, through the power of Twitter just a few months ago. I love meeting new people, but meeting a super MOMpreneur is even more delightful! I was immediately floored by her cookie creations - they are some of the most beautiful cookies I have ever seen! Grandma's old fashioned chocolate chip cookies ain't got nothing on {Lala's Cookie Jar}. Nothing against lovable, dear grandma or chocolate chip cookies for that matter, but if you're looking for a sweet treat with style then these haute couture cookies are IT!

I mean really... a Chanel cookie?? LOVE!

How PERFECT are these purple bustier cookies for the next bridal shower you throw?
I'm WILD for these hot pink, zebra cupcake shaped cookies!

These firetruck cookies will be a HOT hit as favors at your little's birthday party this year!

Can we say DARLING?! I might just throw a baby shower for the next pregnant person I meet just so I can get these adorable owl cookies!

I love that when talking with Andrea she said, "There is nothing we can't do! We love testing and stretching our boundaries!". Spoken by a true super female entrepreneur! Another thing I LOVE about {Lala's Cookie Jar} is that all of the cookies can be color customized and they arrive to you in clear bags tied with a ribbon. They for sure will add a special and sassy touch to your next party or event!

To contact Andrea visit http://www.lalascookiejar.com or email her at afesta2151@aol.com. Click here to "like" on Facebook and here to follow on Twitter.

Mention this blog to get FREE SHIPPING on your next order with {Lala's Cookie Jar}!

The FIVE... with Andrea Festa from Lala's Cookie Jar!

Q: What was the inspiration for starting your business?

The inspiration for starting my business was my love of party planning . I love all those little details that go into a party to make it so special and personal. I named it Lala's Cookie Jar after my 2 year old daughter, Lauren. Her nickname is Lala.

Q: What were some of the challenges that you have faced?

Some of the challenges that I have faced as a business owner are your typical growing pains. It can be difficult to go through but yet very rewarding!

Q: How do you find balance between “real life” and being a super female entrepreneur and/or MOMpreneur?

Balancing “real life” and super female entrepreneur can be very challenging but I welcome it. I chose the business that I have created so I can incorporate my family and friends into it. Everybody loves cookies so the ideas present themselves all the time!

Q: What advice would you give to other female entrepreneurs just starting out?

What I would tell other female entrepreneurs is be patient with yourself. Trust your instincts and by all means have fun!

Q: What is up & coming for your business?

Oh my goodness what’s coming up in my business?! Exciting things happen everyday! New clients and well known clients! Its amazing how word of mouth spreads! I get new ideas all the time and its just so fun to watch it all come to life!

The TEN... little known facts about Andrea Festa from Lala's Cookie Jar!

1. My favorite color is pink

2. I am obsessed with online shopping

3. I buy every celebrity gossip magazine I can find, even though I know they are lies

4. I love all candy

5. I am always hot, even on the coldest days

6. I have a 2 year old daughter

7. I have a degree in fiance

8. I work full time for a Hedge Fund

9. I am involved in many charities and love to give back

10. All my friends say I am their "therapist" I am that kind of friend!

{On The Spot Studio}

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 15:40:00 +0000

Comment #8 wins!! AMY PAMLEA!!

Congrats Amy! Please email me with your contact info so I can pass your info to Tiffany!

Happy day all! Why so happy you may ask? Because MY FAVORITE THINGS is featuring the uber talented MOMprenuer, designer Tiffany Willett from {On the Spot Studio}!! I happily stumbled upon Tiffany almost a year ago and was instantly smitten with her logo designs! They were so fresh and pretty and I knew I HAD to have her design something for me when I was ready. I fell in love with the fact that even though she had this very specific style, everything has a very unique look to it. That one-of-a-kind look is completely enhanced with her use of hand-written or hand-drawn elements to most of her designs! I flip over her stuff!

But, {On The Spot Studio} isn't just logo design... but a full branding business! She has this amazing tag line... "Bringing your visions to life"... how perfect is that?? If you need a new identity then this is THE place to check out! I adore the marketing kits offered... full of amazing goodies like business cards, letterhead, sticker design, blog headers, social media icons and even matching iPhone case designs! Tiffany offers packages at great prices or you can even build your very own to suit your needs. Pictured below are some samples.

AND, she doesn't stop there... Tiffany is also an amazing photographer and sells Photographer Tools like very cool Photoshop actions! She truly has her plate full as you can see so I was even more happy (is that possible?) when she let me interview her about life as an MOMprenuer and some other fun facts about the girl behind the {On The Spot Studio} designs!

The FIVE questions... with Tiffany Willett from {On The Spot Studio}

Q: What was the inspiration for starting your business?

"It was a luck of the draw shot. I was designing websites, ebay templates, banners, etc and had a photographer contact me about a logo. At the time, I was totally clueless but offered to do it for her for $15. Lets just say, by 10am the next morning, I had over 65 emails from other photographers. I kind of took that as a sign."

Q: What were some of the challenges that you have faced?

"Keeping my ideas fresh! So many people have such similar 'loves' and to evaluate their questionnaire and put it all on to "paper" without it being too similar to other businesses can get stressful, but so far, I've done a pretty decent job of keeping track of what I've done for who without having to worry about similarities. Sometimes, if you want a certain font, and certain elements (such as initials) it gets tricky because some of my other clients may have gotten the same "idea"."

Q: How do you find balance between “real life” and being a super MOMpreneur?

"What's that? Before the start of the new year, I would work during school hours only so that I could have 5-6 hours of straight work and then could spend the afternoon with my daughter, however, I am a little behind these days, so I have ended up working as long as 7-8pm each night. I'm fortunate my daughter is a little older now and understands what I am doing and why. It still bugs me that I haven't had as much time with her as I should be able to. I'm working on that "balance" but I vote they just put more hours in the day!"

Q: What advice would you give to other female entrepreneurs just starting out?

"One step at a time. Find something you love. Find something you're passionate about. Then, learn everything you can about it and really drop the hammer. Jump with both feet in once you feel ready. Don't doubt yourself and you will succeed."

Q: What is up & coming for your business?

"Well......lots of stuff I hope! I am currently working on expanding my services to custom blogsite design but that's a ways off. I have 2 in progress now and hopefully by the time they are complete, I will have learned enough extra to actually jump in myself! I do know for a fact, tho, there will be a sale in March on everything in store. Got to celebrate my birth month in style!"

The TEN little known fun facts about.... Tiffany Willett from {On The Spot Studio}

1. I am 4'11" tall and my 7 year old is over half my size.
2. I wear glasses (and contacts but I don't like them!)
3. I listen to music while I am designing, no matter what.
4. My eyes are green.
5. I'm still in my 20's (well, for the next few weeks anyway!)
6. My iPhone wallpaper says: I draw pictures all day. ( and its totally true!)
7. I keep a full Diet Mt. Dew by my workspace all day long.
8. My favorite color is ORANGE
9. I hate socks. Hate shoes that require them. Therefore, I love flip flops.
10. I just learned how to knit and I love it!

Wait!! That's not it! If at all possible things are about to go beyond happy... more like ecstatic! You can have a chance to win a $100 gift certificate to {On The Spot Studio}!!! (read below for entry details)

To enter to win a $100 gift certificate from On The Spot Studio:

(1) FIRST head over to On The Spot Studio to see all the fabulousness they offer and then come back here and leave a comment on what you would use the gift certificate for!

(2) For a SECOND entry, become a fan of Uptown Girl Designs on Facebook and then come back here and leave a separate comment letting us know if you "like" Uptown Girl Designs on Facebook!

(3) Earn a THIRD chance to win this gift certificate by tweeting: "I entered to win a $50 gift certificate on @missuptowngirl http://missuptowngirl.blogspot.com/" and be sure to leave a separate comment below if you tweet!

** contest ends Wednesday, February 9, 2001 at 12:00 EST **

smile :: an {i heart faces} weekly challenge

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 14:40:00 +0000

They say a smile is contagious. Well, "they" are some smart people because I couldn't agree more. I dare you to take a look at this photo and NOT flex those happy face muscles! I'd love to bottle up that SMILE and carry it around in my pocket! This photo will probably forever remain one of my favorite I've ever taken!

{Calling all Fashionistas!}

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 15:24:00 +0000

Well, helloooo there! Glad I captured your attention! Don't you just love the word "fashionista"?? It just sounds SO fab! Ok, ok moving along... why am I calling all you fabulous fashionistas?? I have to share the work I recently did with the uber HOT Posche Boutique located in Wayne, NJ! You know Posche... the shop seen on one of my favorite guilty pleasure shows, The Real Houseives of New Jersey!! Last week Posche held their 2nd annual fashion show at The Brownstone and miss uptown girl was asked to design the program for the evening! The coolest. Right?!

I was thrilled that Kim & Alina LOVED the design of the program! I had the pleasure of meeting Alina a few hours befoe the event as she was getting glammed up and she was super sweet!

You can visit the Posche website here to see some of the gorgeous styles from the show!!

Peace & Love.

{SO Fabulous}

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 14:51:00 +0000

Greetings loves! I hope this day finds you happy & swell! I want to apologize for the blog pause but is has all been due to the crazy goodness in my life right now. I decided a smallish social media break was just what miss uptown girl needed to catch up and remain focused. I am baaaaack and so time to rock n' roll on all fronts once again!

In case you missed it... I had the opportunity to work with the fabulous Teresa Giudice from the Real Housewives of New Jersey and design her daughter's first birthday invitations a few weeks ago. It is SO amazing that Teresa is so supportive of other MOMpreneurs! It made me realize she is just that much more FABULOUS!!

The invitation named {BEL FIORE} which means beautiful flower in Italian (fitting, eh?) is now exclusively available here!

What do you think?? Don't you just love, love, love it?!

Peace & Love.

{Annie & Isabel}

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 13:11:00 +0000

Hi everyone! I am SO excited because today's post is a brand new addition to {my favorite things} which I am happy to announce is the fabulous... wait for it... {ANNIE & ISABEL}!!!

I came across this amazing company via Twitter a few months ago and was immediately smitten! Founded by two very savvy MOMprenuers, sisters Anna & Selena, who through their careers as registered nurses, realized there was a desire from patients to have a more dignified (and possibly more stylish!) hospital gown to wear during their stay. As a mom, and someone who has been through a hospital stay, I can concur that the standard issue hospital gown isn't something that will be gracing the cover of Vogue magazine anytime soon.

The Annie & Isabel designs are super chic & way sassy!! I adore "The Susan" which is a funky zebra print accented with hot pink!

AND, how lovely is "The Anita"??

Isn't it fabulous?? I love all of the thought & details put into the designs of these fashion forward hospital gowns!

I am so lucky to have stolen some time from these very busy mama's to interview them all about Annie & Isabel and life as MOMpreneurs! After reading their story I think you'll be just as smitten with them too!

5 Questions with Anna and Selena from {Annie & Isabel}

Uptown Girl: What was the inspiration for starting Annie & Isabel?
Annna & Selena: We are both nurses and we absolutely love what we do! Anna works in the Emergency Department and Selena works in the adult Intensive Care Unit. We have been at the bedside for over 12 years and we have always felt embarrassed as we hand our patients the thin and non-dignified hospital gown to put on. We've always said, once your in the hospital it doesn't matter if you own a fortune 500 company or live on the street... everyone wears the same hospital gown. Have you ever thought about the history of a hospital gown? It is worn by all, stained by many, and washed in harsh chemicals to keep it "clean". This didn't really sink in until we ourselves had to wear these gown for the births of our sons. That was our "ah-HA" moment. Being on the other side of things made it clear to us that we had to give our patients "the stylish alternative to a hospital gown!" Besides being stylish (priorities ladies!!!), we made them out of the highest quality 100% soft cotton, added a pocket, and a full back panel that ties on the side to fully cover your backside... no snaps or ties to peek open when you bend over!! Believe us... we have seen way too many backsides in all of our years!

UG: What were some of the challenges that you faced?
A&S: Our biggest challenge was that we had no experience in the retail and textile world. We could always guide a friend through a medical emergency.. but, had no clue when it came to finding fabric, a pattern maker, and a
manufacturer. With the help of Google and an our amazing manufacture we were able to get up and running!

UG: How do you find balance between “real life” and being a super MOMpreneurs?
A&S: "real life"... we forgot what that was... Sometimes we do feel jealous when our girlfriends are meeting for coffee or at the park when we have so much to get done...but, now we feel so complete with such a rewarding product. We find balance by dividing up tasks and helping each other take breaks while the other one is in charge of emails and orders. We have an amazing family who has been so supportive of us and believes in our product just as much as we do!

UG: What advice would you give to other female entrepreneurs just starting out?
A&S: Go for it! If you had asked us if we could have started a company years ago, we would have never believed it. We feel honored to be there for people as they undergo chemotherapy, a mastectomy, during a long recovery in the hospital, or on the joyous occasion of welcoming a new life into the world. Every time we receive an email about what a difference our hospital gown made in someones life, it makes every late night of work worth every second.

UG: What is up & coming for Annie & Isabel?
A&S: Being that we just "launched" last April, we have a LOT in store for Annie & Isabel. We will be unveiling our men and children's line in 2011 and have some other surprises up our sleeve as well!

10 Fun & Fab Facts About the Women Behind Annie & Isabel

1. Anna quit her job behind a desk and went back to nursing school with 3 boys and 1 on the way!

2. Selena commutes 3 hours a day (2 days a week) to work at UC San Francisco... ranked #7 in the US News and World Reports best hospitals!

3. Both Selena and Anna went to an all girls high school.

4. They have seen too many naked men and women to count ...at work that is :-)

5. Anna was the jump rope champion of her entire grammar school as a kindergartner!!

6. Most people never guess that Anna & Selena are sisters because they look so different.... or so people say :-)

7. Anna & Selena LOVE their boys. Between the two of them they have their husbands, six boys from the ages of two to twelve, two male dogs, two male rats, a male hamster and a fish that they are sure must be male too :-)

8. Anna & Selena are six years apart in age and weren't too fond of each other growing up as evidenced by the rope Selena placed in the middle of their shared room to separate her area from Anna's but they are THE BEST of friends now.

9. All the gowns are named after influential people in Anna & Selena's lives.

10. While we have named all of our hospital gowns after women in our family who were influential to us....we have also named all of our six boys after influential men in our family that we have looked up to and have been inspired by.

{Lehla Shop}

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 17:13:00 +0000

I am SO excited about my very first addition to {my favorite things}... Lehla Shop!! I met the owner and fabulous designer, Lisa Hill, on Twitter and we very quickly connected. A Jersey gal at heart like me, she is not only as sweet as pie but she is chock full o' talent too! What drew me to her shop was the amazing & beautiful hand craftwomanship! One of my most favorite items are the grooviest little shoes ever - the Graffiti Sneakers!

ADORABLE, right??!! I recently gave a pair of these hand painted sneakers to a little girl for her 4th birthday and they were her favorite birthday gift!

The cuteness doesn't stop there. I mean look at this darling birthday party tutu outfit!! Talk about belle of the ball - love it!

And, I simply adore the Little Bitty Clippy's like these which are too perfect for Halloween coming up!

Lehla Shop is being featured in so many places right now, like The Daily Guncle, so I'm thrilled to have been able to snag Lisa to answer some questions! I think you'll see how easy it was to connect with Lisa. She is just so charming and fun! I hope you'll stop by Lehla Shop to find a sweet & unique gift for someone special in your life!

5 Questions with Lisa Hill from Lehla Shop

Uptown Girl: What was the inspiration for starting Lehla Shop?
Lisa Hill: My inspiration was my daughter! It's always about my daughter! I had purchased her a tutu before she was born after seeing it on the cover of BabyTalk (which I still have!). After moving to Louisiana and leaving my full-time job, I realized I had a lot of time on my hands. I hadn't realized how popular tutus were so, one day I decided I was going to make a tutu similar to the one I had purchased. After trial and error, I eventually found what worked best for me! In 2009, I founded Lehla Shop (Lehla stands for Lisa Elaine Hill Louisiana), a custom shop full of handmade goodies and couture tutus that quickly blossomed into a successful business When I first started on the well known, all things hand-made site, Etsy, I hadn't expected to expand what Lehla Shop is today.

UG: Do you have a favorite item to design?
LH: Well I still have a love for my tutus, but I would have to say my ABSOLUTE new fave is my graffiti sneaker! It allows me to return to my world of creative art and really express myself! My graffiti sneakers are completely customized to each girl and/or boy that I make them for! I had forgotten how much I loved to design!

UG: How do you find balance between “real life” and being a super MOMpreneur?
LH: Who told you I found balance...'cause they were so fibbing! lol! It's hard for me to admit I am overwhelmed! I work part-time at a local church as a childcare provider, so about 18 hrs a week are spent there. I have begun teaching ZumbAtomic classes so I will be dedicating about 4 hours a week to that. The rest is juggled between Lehla Shop and my daughter! Lately I have been stressing that I don't spend enough time with my daughter and realized that I need to treasure these years. So, it has been extremely hard finding balance for me! When they announce that there will be an extra 6 hours in the day, I will be jumping for joy! lol!

UG: What advice would you give to other female entrepreneurs just starting out?
LH: If you read question #3 I am probably not the best candidate to give anyone advice! lol! What I can say is that it takes TIME! Lots of time...and patience. I have been blessed to have had a lot of good opportunities come my way, i.e. the 30th Annual News & Doc Emmy Award swag bags, a Hollywood celeb gifting and my new connection with Tori Spelling. Lehla Shop made it's mark in the world when I designed custom shirts for Liam's 3r birthday party. They were featured on her reality show, Tori & Dean, Home Sweet Hollywood on Oxygen where I also provided tutu's for Tori's party guests as well. In addition, Lehla Shop was one of the preferred boutique gifts at a recent baby shower hosted by Tori Spelling in August for Bill Horn and Scout Masterson, also known as "The Guncles". Having an opportunity to gift for Tori Spelling is a dream come true. I respect everything about her and she is such an inspiration to me...seeing her accomplish so much makes me work 10 x's harder! Hard work DOES make dreams come true...

UG: What is up & coming for Lisa Hill and Lehla Shop??
LH: Ooh, let's see...I was just contacted by LaunchHER, a company that gives a boost to {women owned} brands, and was chosen to be one of their freshly launched companies! The launch will bring more positive attention to my company and what Lehla Shop has to offer! Look for me at www.launchher.com. For me personally, when I am not busy with yards of tulle or painting my next graffiti sneaker, you can catch me making my way in the blogging world sharing things on the Lehla Shop blog and my life confessions on the MOMpreneur Diaries. I am also a contributing writer to the well-known, celeb loving blog Sprinkles, part of cupcakeMAG. And if that's not enough, I am currently having my first children's book edited. I am hoping my good fortune will allow me to find a publisher and someday see it on bookstore shelves! I think I have enough on my plate for now...we'll just have to see what the future brings!

10 Fun & Fab Facts about Lisa Hill

1. I used to be a completive ice skater. my dad had high hopes of me going to the Olympics, until I quit.

2. I am addicted to magazines! my husband once counted them and I had 11 magazine subscriptions!

3. My favorite color is black...then gray...

4. I own 95 pairs of shoes (that i could visibly count in my closet)! 14 of which were flip flops!

5. My daughter owns 18 pairs of shoes..she's 3! (do you see a pattern here?)

6. I dream of living in San Diego...it has the perfect temperature year round...never hot, never cold. Jealous that my sister lives there!

7. I have a grand love for peanut butter. I eat it by the spoonful, shhhh!

8. I met my current husband through my ex-husband...before he was my ex! They were on the same Fire Department!

9. It once took me 3 hours to shop for 1 purse...in the same store. I have a friend who fears the words "purse shopping" from me!

10. I am addicted to the Rachel Zoe project. seriously, I think she is my girl crush! When I grow up, i wish to be trendy and fashionable and talented enough to dress celebrities!

i'm an entrepreneur. now what?

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 12:02:00 +0000

One great part of my journey as a MOMpreneur is meeting other awesomely incredible and amazing MOMpreneurs! Now I've never been good at "networking”. Frankly that word alone makes me shudder and want to run away and hide. I hear the word "networking" and it seems so cold, so rehearsed, and so like 1985. Now I do understand the importance of the act. The more people you meet and present your "elevator pitch" to (Ugh, elevator pitch! Another one of those blah terms in the world of entrepreneurialism.) , the more likely your business will thrive and grow and blah blah blah. If you have your own business then this is not by any means breaking news. If you have your own business, and this comes easy to you, then you get two snaps up! (In a Z formation of course!). But, if you're like me, if this whole networking, elevator pitch schtuff seems way over your head and like the scariest thing ever, then what are you left to do??

There is the obvious, and kind of a good idea, PRACTICE! You know how you stand in front of your mirror with your brush and give your big Oscar acceptance speech? And don't lie, we all have done this at one point! Well, this is the same idea except instead of tearfully thanking your spouse, children, parents, cast, crew, the academy and your new best friend and co-star Jennifer Aniston, give your pitch. Do this often. Pretend you're a guest on Oprah and she's featuring YOU as HER favorite thing. Again, don't lie, we all have done our very own Oprah interview in our heads. Then once you feel like Oprah is totally going to call you to invite you on the show, grab the person you trust the most and practice on them. Before you know it you'll be ready and set on your way grabbing people at Target to give them your pitch. Kind of like those Mary Kay ladies who stop you while your shopping to tell you how beautiful you are and would you like to buy some make-up. NO, do not do this. That's annoying. BUT do note good opportunities and give it a swing. You never know who you might be talking to.

Now I know I may still have not sold some of you. It's still very frightening and uncomfortable. I'll be honest with you... I feel the same way! I may talk the talk but my walk ain't got much swagger. So... where does that leave us? Luckily there are so many cool options now with social media being so huge. Facebook and Twitter are my top faves! They are not replacements for old school, face-to-face networking (sorry it just must be done!) but they are marvelous accompaniments.

Still feeling awkward? Well, remember way at the beginning of my teachings here (bah – I know, I know) I spoke about MOMpreneurs? I have had the most fun networking with other MOMpreneurs! Yes, I said I had fun networking! The community of MOMpreneurs is vast and full of fantastic talent. But, it’s not only moms, women running businesses in general is so HOT right now! How fantabulous is that?! Maybe I need to invent a new word that encompasses all women entrepreneurs. GALpreneurs? Ok, I’ll keep working on that. In the meantime, all you fellow “networking” haters, go out there and get involved in the MOMpreneur community! The energy, love and support is crazy good. I feel so blessed to be a MOMpreneur and to know so many others. As women we must support other women owned businesses! I truly believe this is a huge key to the great, big, heavy door of success. It’s not only important but it’s fun! As serious as you should take your business, you should also find joy in it every day. I find so much joy in networking with other women entrepreneurs. They help to feed my drive. They make me want to succeed. They hold me up and they probably don’t even know it. So much opportunity is out there but you cannot let fear of anything hold you back.

Not quite sure how or where to venture out and establish some MOMpreneur relationships? Here is where I will come in! Yes, right here on my blog you will find two great sections of information. In the MOMpreneur Love section there will be links available to sites I love and love to support! In the My Favorite Things sections I will feature women run businesses in detail including photos of products and interviews with the women themselves! There are also some awesome sites out there like Market Mommies, LaunchHER and Savor the Success that are specifically geared towards women entrepreneurs and they all offer something a little different. I am so looking forward to all I plan on bringing to the table here. I hope to meet many more amazing women entrepreneurs and maybe together we can kick networking’s bootie and conquer the world.

Peace & Love.

and the winner is...

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 15:02:00 +0000

But, first let me say a big heartfelt thank you to all who love and support me & all that is Uptown Girl Designs! It means the world to me!! I hope to have many, many more giveaways too so pass the love around! I'm already planning my next giveaway too because I just LOVE my fans so, so, so much!!

The winner was chosen using random.org based on how many people left comments, not based on how many comments we actually made because some left more than one. I figured that was the most fair way to handle that. I will email the winner with the gift certificate code to be used at checkout!

So... without further ado... the winner of a $50.00 gift certificate to Uptown Girl Designs is... ANNA!!

Congrats to you!!

Peace & Love.

fweaky, fweaky

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 12:38:00 +0000

I'm not even sure how I'm functioning right now, but alas, here I am (early!) on a Monday morning stabbing away at the computer keys. It was a rough night because my petunia, Gabby, could not sleep because, as she said, "my nobe id stubby". Translation: my nose is stuffy. So, that meant I was awake with her, even though my nobe was completely unstubby, trying to convince her to let me use the "fweaky, fweaky". You know... the nose aspirator... that crazy blue bulbous, rubber squeezy, boogy snatcher thing... the fweaky fweaky. No, I'm not losing my beans, that's what it is. At least how I learned what it was from my cute & sweet Cuban grandmother who called it just that - fweaky fweaky. Ok, I'm sure it definitely had something to do with the fact that her limited English made it kind of difficult for her to say "aspirator", so why not call it like it sounds?? FWEAKY FWEAKY FWEAKY FWEAKY.

So, at 2 a.m. I'm in the dark, fweaky fweaky in one hand, tissues in the other, and wishing the actual fweaky fweaky had as much appeal as it's funny little nickname. In the end, the saline and fweaky fweaky went in the nose, the boogs surrendered out of the nose, and Gabby finally fell back asleep... 2 hours later...

Even with the challenges of the fweaky fweaky (and by challenges I mean pinning down your kid and getting it in there or the harder if the two, begging) it is totally worth it! So, don't be afraid, embrace and befriend the fweaky fweaky, and shove it on up your kids noses... they may never thank you but at least they'll be a little less snotty and you'll get a little more sleepy.

Miss you Nani!

Peace & Love.

giveaway: $50.00 gift certificate

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 12:11:00 +0000

I'm SO excited to announce the very first giveaway on my blog! It's a $50.00 gift certificate good towards any purchase at Uptown Girl Designs!! WHY?? Because I love you all and because I promised a giveaway once Uptown Girl Designs had 350 Facebook fans! Thank you so, so very much for all the love & support! AND, how perfect right before the holidays too?! There are many unique & stylish designs available for holiday cards or you can even choose to have a custom design!! You're not limited to holidays cards though because as you know we love to help you celebrate for any event or occasion.

Here's what you need to do to be eligible to win:

1. Be a fan ("Like") on the Uptown Girl Design Facebook page, http://facebook.com/uptowngirldesigns

2. Leave a comment on the blog below saying what you'd like to use the gift certificate towards if you win!

You have until Wednesday, September 15, 2010 to enter!! The winner will be contacted via email on 9/16/10. Best wishes!

Peace & Love.

it's about time

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 14:14:00 +0000

Greetings & salutations! Welcome to the first official blog post of Uptown Girl Designs!! This is not my first attempt at being an uber cool blogger though. Or my second for that matter. (um, or my third if you really need to know!) I've been down this road before - excited & ready to spew out bubbles of my wisdom and wit for all the world to read. I would post daily (er, weekly!) easily relatable ramblings filled with that girl-next-door charm. Yep, I would be the next "IT" blogger & stir up the blogosphere with all I dared to share with my readers.

Then..... do I even need to say it? Seriously?? We all know what happened. You know, that thing we always blame for "settling in". Let's all say it together why don't we. REALITY! Or as some of you may have been thinking, her half-sister's 2nd cousin twice removed, TIME! Whatever your poison, reality or time, or a little cocktail of the two, these things always seem to turn you back into a pumpkin way before midnight. Or something like that.

The thing is, or the reality is, that there are so, so many blogs out there. So, so many that are already charming and witty and have that IT factor. How do you make yourself stand out even the teeniest bit? But more importantly, where do you fine the TIME to do it all?? I am slowly (& impatiently!!) learning that none of that actually really matters. Can you believe it? What matters is that you keep on... keeping on. Never stop, don't quit, and all that jazz. I may not be the next overnight IT sensation but this blog around I am going to try a little harder!

xoxo

Peace & Love

pardon the dust

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 02:12:00 +0000

We are re-vamping our site only to bring you the best! We will be up running soon but in the mean time please visit our site, Uptown Girl Designs.

Thanks for your patiences!

xoxo

Peace & Love

About Us

noreply@blogger.com (kristina) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 02:21:00 +0000

Welcome to the Uptown Girl Designs blog; we are thrilled you have stopped by! We are all about customizing all of life’s fabulous moments while bringing back good old-fashioned correspondence. Have you ever wondered what your grandparents would think of this digital age where the art of hand written letters or mailed correspondence has been seemingly lost? It doesn’t have to be that way. The Uptown Girl Designs studio is full of fabulous designs that celebrate babies, weddings, birthdays, holidays and so much more! We also have wonderful designs for personal note cards and thank you cards.