Mod Mom Furniture - Blog

A BIG "Honey Do" List

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Tue, 21 May 2013 19:35:00 +0000

If you've been hanging around www.modmomfurniture.com lately, you'll notice some changes! And BOY are we excited! We've been talking about the new collections, the new partnerships, and the new web design for a little while but I haven't talked that much about the people behind all of it. And without the people, there is no expansion.

Today, I want to feature my husband, Scott, our VP of Business Development and Design.

I learned this past year that trying to expand without a lot of help was insane and practically impossible. I was still drowning in the day-to-day MMF work that has to be done to keep the business running. Enter my insanely creative husband. As "luck" would have it this past year, he had more time to devote to helping me with the business than ever before in marriage. That is, when he's not doing his own contract work with international tech companies. And lucky for me, he still has time.

Scott is a one of those creative genius types you kinda wanna punch just a tiny bit. He can draw, sing, paint, act, design, and write. In fact, it was a bit of a shock to both of us when I started designing and building furniture because he's always been known as the more artistic one of the two of us. I can sketch like an 5th grader where as he can sketch and it looks amazing. I would always ask his opinions about new toy boxes emerging from my garage workshop and he would agree or disagree and then I would do it my way. Ha! He even helped me design the Bertie Toy Box one summer while he was in between corporate jobs. Over the past six months, he's helped to design new pieces like the Wes Rocker, worked to create partnership opportunities with other very talented artists, helped retool current items, and the list goes on and on. I really can't imagine doing this without him! Funny, because when I was building all of them myself for the first four years, we kept it very separate. Mod Mom was mine. He had his stuff. It worked for both of us back then but recently we've been guided to put our heads together and I'm so happy we are doing just that.
And we haven't killed each other yet!! (Married couples will really understand that, especially those who work together.)

Big thanks to Scott for all he does every single day to make Mod Mom what we know it can be. Turns out Mod Dad and Mod Mom work quite well together. I'm a quick learner...it only took me 5 years to figure that out!

Next post...our VP of Operations, Barry Parsons and Samantha Cobos, our Director of Textile Design!

How I got on Shark Tank! Pre-Production Video Submission Included!

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 19:17:00 +0000

I've been hearing that Shark Tank is casting now and wanted to share the video I had to submit after getting through the initial vetting by Shark Tank producers. I also wanted to share a little about my experience going through the casting process in hopes, if you're looking to apply, it might help you!

I can't believe that I filmed Shark Tank back in 2010!! I'm like one of the Shark Tank grandmas now! Back then, I was fortunate enough to be able to look to Season One folks like Lori Lite from Stress Free Kids and Michelle from Send A Ball for tips on even just getting past the the first round of cuts. I studied their pitches and hoped so much I would a. make it to filming and b. not fall on my face during filming!

After the initial question and answer session with a producer they asked if I would put together a video submission that answered many questions. So I took a shower, put on my go-to dress with jeans under it. Remember when that was popular? And I nervously did the best I could to answer ALL of the questions they wanted me to cover. My husband was the camera man and my dirty garage was the backdrop. You can see the finished product below. :) Thankfully, this video and a VERY long questionaire got me into the finals where producers asked roughly 40+ entrepreneurs to come to LA to film their pitches. I think, that season, only roughly 25 of us who filmed actually saw our pitches air on ABC. I think back then, roughly 20,000 people submitted initial applications online or through casting calls. Then it gets whittled down and whittled down some more.

To all the folks who have submitted the initial info or visited a casting call, kudos for you for putting yourself out there!!

My advice for you, if you're going to submit or are going through the process.....

Believe in yourself and your product. Be yourself and listen to your intuition regarding every part of the process. I went into it thinking I could really get some help with funding my company. So that was focus.
Shark Tank is a TV show, so while they're looking for good products and entrepreneurs, they are looking for a good story that will play well on TV. Remember this when you're speaking with producers. Hardship, underdog stories make for great TV. There was no faking involved in our hardship story as we were in a tough position with lay offs so again, just be yourself when you tell your story. But know they will play up ever angle that they feel will make good TV.
Everyone will give you notes and suggestions. Go with your gut. You have one shot in the tank and if you feel uncomfortable with what production would like you to do, say so. Initially, it was thrown around that I'd wear something ala a white tank top and jeans. I didn't feel comfortable with that. The business experience I had is equally as important as the carpentry/design work so I compromised. I said I'll wear heels and a dress but I'll also wear a tool belt.
Practice practice but then give it up to the powers that be. If you are prepared with your numbers and your pitch is memorized (no notes are allowed in the Tank), then relax and know they are just people, too. I was much more nervous before the doors swung open than I was when I finally made it out to Sharks to deliver my pitch.
Even if things don't go the way you want them to, don't be discouraged. There are so many opportunities out there and this is just one of them. And if you do get on Shark Tank but don't get a deal or do get a deal, know that your company just got a 15 minute commercial during prime time. That is priceless.

Biggest piece of advice is if you feel it in your heart that you want to submit for Shark Tank, do it. In my life, the stuff I've been most afraid to tackle has always been the most worthwhile. You just need a few seconds of courage. Then about an hour of courage in the Tank but regardless, by that point, if you make to filming, you will have lots of support and if you truly believe in what you're doing, it will show no matter what the outcome.

Best of luck!!!

Kiersten

For a look at how it all turned out in the Shark Tank, click this link!

Balance

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 17:37:00 +0000

As I sit here on the couch surrounded by file folders full of purchase orders, invoices, sketches, half empty cups of coffee, post it notes and small Snickers wrappers, I am struck yet again by how that whole BALANCE thing we work-from-home parents supposedly have really is bullshit. I wrote a post about it last year but this year, it feels even more intense. We are in a constant state of appreciation that we're blessed to be able to work the hours we want, answer to ourselves, our retailers, and our clients, and take off for vacation when we need/want. But with that said, we have a very hard time giving ourselves permission to STOP working, looking at the i-Phone, answering emails at all hours and talking about work in bed, God forbid. It's really hard when you know your livelihood is all on your shoulders. Balance seems to be what we strive for but in reality, we're just doing the best we can to keep all the balls in the air. And lately, with increased workloads on both sides, busier kids and homework stacks, those balls are dropping.

And then you throw in we have no after school care, support, nanny, or outside help and while sure, our kids are in school from 8:30 to 3:00, it sure isn't enough time to properly run an international furniture business. It's just not. Not in this age of OMG SHE DIDN'T GET BACK TO ME WITHIN AN HOUR SOMETHING MUST BE WRONG.

I'm guilty of looking at my i-Phone too much and saying "Uh huh" when the kids are talking because I'm not fully listening but rather I am reading a message that has to be returned ASAP. And I know it's not OK but getting off this insanely fast, no-stop work train is harder than getting off caffeine.

When I think back to when I was in corporate our cell phones were just for phone calls and we couldn't even access our email from outside of our offices, I smile. I'm sure we were very productive yet we allowed ourselves time to be human. To be engaged more as parents. And because we worked outside the home, our kiddos were in daycare and preschool getting what they needed from engaged caregivers.

I hope at some point the pendulum swings back and I pledge to do what I can from here on out to make it swing back more in our household. Well, right after I check this this message/text/FB message/tweet/blinking light. Oh no. I'm doomed. :)

Big Ole Nut Shell

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 22:00:00 +0000

I have seriously disappointed this blog. Before Facebook, it was my go-to place to write about all things Mod Mom related...or just mom related. I kinda miss it, I do. But life and work have been so busy that simply updating via Facebook and Twitter seems the easiest way to pass along Mod Mom news.

But you're writing, Kiersten??!?! Yup. I am. Thought I'd do a speed round of what has been happening around these parts. And take this opportunity to thank you again for coming around this blog and for supporting Mod Mom. Still blows my mind that this all started back in 2006 when I was trying to figure out how to measure wood and join one side of a toy box to the other without driving a nail through my finger. Which did happen on occasion.

So to catch you up...

Last year, a true ANGEL investor came into my life via a form email. We spoke a few times by phone and his over all message to me was that he believed in me and the Mod Mom brand. We never met in person. He literally mailed a check for a huge amount of money with no royalties, etc attached. I am forever grateful for his faith and generosity. Like I said, a true Angel.
Since then, we've hired part-time staff to help take the day-to-day workload off my back and give me time to develop new lines and partnerships. My amazingly talented husband has been helping me on weekends and during his off-work hours to do just that. He's been essential to the growth we're now seeing with our company and I'm so thankful for him.
I launched The Little Light Project, a non-profit organization helping families whose children have passed in addition to helping children and their parents understand how to manage and grow intuition. It's amazing the reach this little organization has! We've been getting emails from all over the world without doing any advertising. If you build it, they will come!
Mod Mom partnered with Safe Horizon, the nations largest organization based in NYC that helps families who have suffered violence. When you purchase items on our website, 5% of the sale price goes to Safe Horizon! We're thrilled to be able to help!
We have officially partnered with Columbia Forest Products (and their formaldehyde-free wood that is made here in the States) and are in the process of designing multiple lines of storage furniture (not just kids!) for major national retailers. It's all still in the works but more detail to come on this, for sure!!
We are in the design/prototype/negotiation stage with the FANTASTIC well-known kids furniture/goods retailer. Designing exclusive Mod Mom pieces for them. YAY!
We've partnered with Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band -- they are HUGE in the kid music world -- to create a line of storage based off of their award winning songs.
And we're going to launch a Woodland Mod collection that skews a little more traditional in design taste. Fine, hardwood, Amish-craftsmanship will still be at the heart of Woodland Mod!

In a nutshell, that's what's happening on this end. Look for new products, a revamped website, new partnerships and new wood!

As always, thank you for supporting us through the years. Now, I'm off to pick up Noah from school!

Help a Family Escape Domestic Abuse

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 18:04:00 +0000

Please consider donating any amount of money you can spare to help a family escaping domestic abuse. While I can't give out specific information, I can say that this courageous mom is trying desperately to make a new, better life for herself and her kids.

If you donate, you will be entered to win an Owyn Toy Box valued at $425! No amount is too small. Let's help give one mom and her children a new start. Free from violence, threats, and negativity.

To donate, click the link below:

COURAGEOUS MOM ESCAPING DOMESTIC ABUSE

Thank you so much for your help and support! I'll keep everyone posted as to when we draw the winner of the toy box.

WIN THIS TOYBOX!
Just donate any amount you can to help a family escape domestic violence!

What a NEW Year!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 06:10:00 +0000

Happy New Year!! 23 days late! Hope you're all over your resolutions to lose weight and stop drinking caffeine (or vodka). I know I am! I started out strong but one massive cold sent me climbing back into the comfy couch and out of my running shoes. I know I'll kick it into gear right after I eat way too much in Vegas this weekend. :)

I am so excited about this new year of ours. It feels different than other years for many reasons but one of them being because I finally came to terms with the fact that as much as I want to believe I can think outside of my furniture box, I've found it's really hard to just that. It's difficult to think bigger than what I've always done. Thank goodness I know some new-to-Mod-Mom folks (who believe in what we're doing) and existing team members who have so many amazing ideas and so much already in the works that I can now step back a bit from the day-to-day inner workings and look at the bigger picture. In order to grow the way we know Mod Mom can, we need collaboration. As a woman who always handled everything for MMF, it surprised me how hard it was to let go of a little of that control. But I know that I do not have all the answers and I don't have all the ideas, so we're starting 2013 off with lots of new connections, new design ideas, and a team of people who believe in what we're doing and our avenues for growth.

Now back to Vegas....

We are heading to Vegas on Saturday for the Las Vegas World Market International Home Furnishings Show. I'm really honored to be among a handful of people being awarded WITH IT WOW Awards on Sunday night. We have lots of meetings lined up and a little mechanical bull riding as well. Ya know. Cuz that's what you do when you go to Vegas.

Both Mod Mom Furniture and The Little Light Project are really growing in ways I never thought possible. And I couldn't be happier. I'll continue to keep following my heart and opening my mind to lots of new ideas and partnerships. Saying I'm grateful for the people in my life on both the Mod Mom front and with the volunteer work I'm doing would be an understatement. I believe if you're in alignment with what you're guided to do in life, the Universe conspires with you, not against you. And in this new year, the Universe hit a home run with the folks I call business partners, mentors, and friends.

May 2013 be starting off as fabulous for you as it has for me. Minus the illness part, of course.

AFTER HOLIDAYS SALE IS HERE!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 17:27:00 +0000

AFTER HOLIDAYS SALE!! From now til January 13th, when you use the discount code JAN15OFF when purchasing through www.modmomfurniture.com, you'll get 15% off toy boxes and the Owyn Table and Stool set! Don't miss this sale! And don't miss the new CHASE toy box sold exclusively on MMF.com.

Nativity Sets For Sale -- A Sam Brown Design for Mod Mom Furniture

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Sun, 25 Nov 2012 23:39:00 +0000

Facebook Fan/Black Friday/Small Business Saturday Sale That Lasts All Weekend!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Fri, 23 Nov 2012 02:36:00 +0000

I think I've come up with the longest name for a sale in the history of the world!!

Facebook Fan/Black Friday/Small Business Saturday Sale That Lasts All Weekend!!

So here's how this works... you can get 20% off any MMF storage item sold on www.modmomfurniture.com if you're a Facebook Fan of MMF starting tonight and going through Sunday at 11:59pm! Shipping cost is included in the discounted price!

Shipping time is still 4-6 weeks from date of purchase and we'll do our best to get them shipped before Christmas! If not, you'll have a nice storage piece after Christmas for all those toys you're stepping on throughout the house!

Spread the news to friends to become Facebook fans to get the discount! www.facebook.com/modmomfurniture

To get the discount, you have to purchase using the buttons below....

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Gracie Toy Box -- Walnut Stain or Natural Birch

Regular Price: $475
Sale Price: $380

Bertie Toy Box

Regular Price: $395
Sale Price: $316


Noah Owl Toy Box

Regular Price: $395
Sale Price: $316

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Maude Toy Box

Regular Price: $450
Sale Price $360

Don't Miss the One Kings Lane Sale going on Now! Ends Monday, November 19

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Sat, 17 Nov 2012 04:42:00 +0000

Get up to 34% off regular retail price when you purchase through www.onekingslane.com between now and Monday, November 19! But hurry...they are going fast!! They will ship by December 18th just in time for the holidays!!

Available are Maude, Noah Owl, Bertie, Owyn and Gracie Toy Box!

How to Build Your Own Toy Bin!

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 22:06:00 +0000

Modern Wood Toy Bin on Casters (approx cost to build = $80-$100)

Wood: 1/2 Baltic Birch plywood (about 30 per 5 x 5 sheet at lumberyard)

You'll have left over wood so you can make other things. Step stool? :)

Cut List (either cut on a table saw or have lumber yard cut)

(2) 30inchL x 11.5 in tall (front and back panels)
(1) 30 in L x 14 in tall (bottom)
(2) 13 in L x 11 in tall (side panels)

Other Supplies needed:

Miller Dowel Kit (21747) Mini-X Quick Drill Kit $27.99
http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=10483&site=ROCKLER&filter=miller%20dowels

Sand paper for hand sanding or for orbital sander
Casters of your choice
1/2inch long wood screws (12) for attaching casters.
Wood glue
Rag for wiping glue
Hammer

Detailing:

cut veneer or wall decal or scrapbook paper cut into favorite shape
decoupage paste

Finishing:

Water based polyurethane
foam roller

Veteran's Day Tribute

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Sun, 11 Nov 2012 17:08:00 +0000

Happy Veteran's Day! And a big thank you to veterans, soldiers, and all those amazing military families who miss their loved ones on a daily basis.

I've been thinking a lot about my family members who served today and wanted to honor them in some small way . My mom was kind enough to share some of what she knows about my grandparents so I've included it below. Thanks Mom!

(Juanita Pennington, 1945)

My grandmother, Juanita Pennington was member of the WAVES (Women's Navy) and worked in D.C. during WWII. (Photo above was taken in D.C.) One of her jobs was to decode Japanese messages. She was put on a train with other WAVES. Juanita had no idea where she was going or where she ended up due to the black-out curtains hanging in the train windows. She got off the train at a secret location and worked on the messages. The women would be brought back to their bases the next day.

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My grandfather, Lawrence Pennington was a paratrooper during WWII. He was in Africa fighting Rommel (German) as well as parachuting into Europe where he was one of the first paratroopers to drop over the Ziegfreid line when Americans invaded Europe. Most of the men were killed as they parachuted, but he landed safely and hid under a snow-covered tree. He was discovered and held as a prisoner for nine months. The Russian army liberated him and when he came back home to the US he was sent to the Biltmore House Estate in North Carolina to recuperate due to his poor health.

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(Clifford Parsons with my dad, Barry Parsons)

My grandpa, Clifford Parsons, was in the Army Engineers division who was responsible for building the roads and bridges before the rest of the troops advanced. He fought in Europe and was ordered to invade Normandy. A week before the invasion, his units' orders were changed or he would have been one of the first men there.
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(Charles Hathcock)

Scott's grandfather, Charles Hathcock, also served during WWII. Charles came from a family of six siblings; he was the youngest of four brothers. At one point during WWII, all of the Hathcock brothers were serving in the war. Charles was recruited much later in the war and served in Austria Germany in two main roles. His first role was as a Military Police(MP) officer watching over German war prisoners. His second role gave him the opportunity to explore the German countryside as part of the communications reconstruction team. Charles helped hang telephone lines and open back up communications between German villages. He never had to fire a single shot in either role but instead left the war with an appreciation for the German Austrian people and their countryside.

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My grandpa, Calvin Deeter, served in the Navy aboard the The USS Conklin DE439. There's a wonderful website dedicated to those who served on the Conklin: http://www.ussconklin.org/index.htm.

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Thanks Pregnancy and Newborn Magazine!

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Sat, 03 Nov 2012 16:42:00 +0000

If you pick up Pregnancy and Newborn magazine this month, you'll see something that looks familiar! Check out the Owyn Table and Stool Set on page 96!

Well what do ya know....MMF was nominated for an award! Help us win our category!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:06:00 +0000

What a fun day! Got a bike ride in before work AND found out MMF was nominated for a Red Tricycle award! There are so many amazing companies on the list -- very cool to be in their company.

But screw sportsmanship! (HA!) Help us win the "Best Eco Room Decor" title this year!

Go to this link to vote: http://awards.redtri.com/?contest=eco-decor&phase=voting

Thanks so much for all your support. Still pretty blown away that all of this started a few years back with a table saw and a badly made modern toy box!!

I love Lumberjocks!

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 21:44:00 +0000

Back when I first started MMF, I joined a website called Lumberjocks. It's such a great place to get support and help. When I came up with the idea to sell some lower priced items that are handmade, I didn't want to overload L&JWoodworking (Amish manufacturers) so I reached out on Lumberjocks and asked if anyone was interested in producing eco-friendly, modern keepsake boxes and other items for me and lots of guys wrote in to say they are interested.

I've worked out a deal with a fantastic woodworker from Missouri who has his own garage shop and I couldn't be happier! He's helping to take care of his mother who is ill so the extra income is helping him while the boxes are helping me! It's a perfect partnership.

You know it's right when things fall into place easily and just feels like all is right in the world.

Lumberjocks Rule!

http://www.lumberjocks.com

This Little Light of Mine

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 17:18:00 +0000

I've gone over how I would say this a million times in my head. And as I sit here at the computer drinking coffee out of a mug that says, "I'm a carpenter," I am reminded that I really am so many different things all wrapped up in this 39-yr-old body of mine. We all are, aren't we?!? So many times we get labeled and pigeon-holed into narrow categories because it's easier for all of us to process who that person is within a rigid framework. I'm guilty of doing it, too. And boy is it easy to do that during election season.

But it's not that simple, is it?

I have been keeping a secret about a "side" of me out of fear. Fear that I would be judged. Fear that it would hurt my business. Fear that I would let people down. I've come to the realization over the past year that we are not meant to live in fear. It holds us back. We're given gifts and talents by God not for us to hide away but to really own, respect, and share. Basically, stand in our truth.

So here's mine. In addition to being a daughter, wife, mom, carpenter, designer, CEO, amateur hair cutter, and a whole slew of other things, I am a medium. I was born with the gift of being able to communicate with loved ones that have passed on.

This gift of mine is something I've always had but at a very early age, I turned off. Probably due to fear. It started to awaken in me about three years ago but really came on full force over the past year and a half. Out of nowhere, I started to hear and see things other people were not. And for the most part, the messages I was receiving were from children who have passed. There is so very much to this complicated story of mine but in a nutshell, I have been helping families reconnect with children who have crossed in an effort to help everyone begin to heal. This isn't something I do for income (I do not charge for my help) and I do not seek out the children, they come to me. Some I know through friends or family and some are complete strangers.

In an effort to stand in my truth and move forward with what I know will ultimately be one of the most important things I do in my lifetime, I started a website called The Little Light Project. You can read more about how it works and how a handful of families feel about the work I'm doing and more importantly, how it is helping them cope with their loss.

I know this is a very controversial subject and I completely respect if you do not believe in such things. All I know is that for me, this is very real and is my truth. It might not be yours, but it is mine and I want to do the best I can in my lifetime to live authentically.

So there you have it. No more hiding for me. I wouldn't be able to stand in my truth without the support of my amazing family, colleagues and friends who love me for me. It's hard to put into words how thankful I am for their support. And I especially want to thank my husband, Scott. It takes a strong man with a lot of faith in God and his wife to endure what Scott has had to go through over the past few years. His love and support have given me the strength and confidence to do what I'm doing now. Scott, I love you and thank you immensely for not putting me in an institution. And mostly for believing in me, even when I didn't believe in myself.

As always, thank you immensely for your support of Mod Mom Furniture! I am working on incorporating more giving through MMF by donating a percentage of sales to organizations that help abused and ill children. Check out a sneak peek of a beautiful wooden Nativity set we will be replicating, retailing and donating a portion of sales to charity on the Mod Mom Facebook page. It's a design by Scott's late grandfather, Sam Brown, who was a Baptist minister and carpenter.

I sincerely hope every one of you reading this has the opportunity to live your authentic life and ditch the fear. Coincidentally, my dear friend told me that today is National Coming Out Day. I couldn't have picked a better day. :)

Celebrities who love Mod Mom Furniture!

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 23:18:00 +0000

I'm sometimes asked about what celebs own Mod Mom pieces so I thought I'd do a fun photo collage of who has what! :)

Woodworkers Cook! Chicken Broccoli Casserole: A Household Tradition

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 03:51:00 +0000

This has nothing to do with woodworking and everything to do with food!! WHOOHOO!! My mom taught us how to make this when my sister and I were learning to cook. Check out the video below where Grace helps me make this household favorite!

CHICKEN BROCCOLI CASSEROLE

1 bag of frozen or fresh broccoli
1 large can of chicken or shredded roasted chicken
1 can of cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup of light mayo
Juice from fresh squeezed lemon
8 oz bag of shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon melted butter
1/2 cup of breadcrumbs

Preheat oven to 375. Microwave broccoli (or steam it on the stove), drain liquid. Using an 9 x 13 inch baking dish, distribute broccoli evenly on the bottom of the dish. Now layer canned chicken on top. Then mix cream of chicken soup, light mayo, and lemon juice in a bowl. Pour the mixture on top of the layer of chicken. Now, sprinkle enough cheddar cheese to lightly cover the entire dish. Mix melted butter and breadcrumbs in a separate bowl and then lightly sprinkle the mixture on top of the cheese. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until casserole is warm, cheese is melted, and breadcrumbs are toasted.

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Get more KIN PARENTS tips & advice: http://bit.ly/KinParents

MOMtrepreneur, Kiersten Hathcock of http://www.ModMomFurniture.com shares the first recipe she ever learned to cook as a girl -- and how it developed into a sweet a family tradition. A nostalgic and simple to assemble casserole her family loves and yours may too!

Learn more about Kiersten Hathcock and Mod Mom Furniture at these links:

http://www.modmomfurniture.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/modmomfurniture
Twitter: https://twitter.com/modmomkiersten
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/modmomfurniture

Kin Community and Mod Mom Present: How To Build A Step Stool

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Sun, 26 Aug 2012 23:23:00 +0000

Many thanks to the team at Kin Community for another great video production!

Check out Grace helping me teach how to build a step stool!
Get more KIN PARENTS tips & advice: http://bit.ly/KinParents

Put on your safety glasses and venture into the amazing world of woodworking! MOMtrepreneur, Kiersten Hathcock of ModMomFurniture.com offers an easy to follow tutorial on how to create your own step stool. She shares clever ways for your kids to participate in the project and create a simple piece of furniture that will grow with them.

STEP STOOL Materials List:

Baltic Birch Plywood - 1/2 inch thick
Cut List:
(1) 13in wide x 11 in tall
(2) 11in wide x 10 in tall
(1) 12 in wide x 4 in tall

Miller Dowels and drill bit
Wood Glue
Sand paper

Life Path

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 03:18:00 +0000

This is the path I would walk in the morning with Scott while staying at his parent's house in Flagstaff. It's the most beautiful scene. Funny how I've always said I'm a mountain girl because walking these trails made me realize I really am. There's something so calming about walking through the woods.

Or maybe it's because I'm a wood geek in general.

While walking, I had time to think about all of ups and downs of life and how much I've learned in such a short period of time. Nothing an MBA could produce but more along the lines of life in general. And people.

I've been in a few situations lately where I've had to trust my intuition about folks I know in my work life and my personal life. I know I've been talking about intuition quite a bit but it's really the most amazing gift, if you use it. I used to always give people the benefit of the doubt way too much and just squash those "ewwww" feelings. Mostly because I was a people pleaser. Now, I trust my first instinct about people and nine times out of ten, it turns out to be spot on. It's really invaluable in all areas of my life and I highly recommend paying attention to those feelings right off the bat.

So as I'm walking down this part of my life path, I find the most valuable tool in the old tool box has nothing to do with the mechanics of running a business. And has everything to do with knowing myself and trusting my gut feelings.

Kin Community Momtreprenuer Video Segment

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 01:23:00 +0000

Major thanks to the entire Kin Community staff for making inviting me to be a part of several video segments!

First one is called "Momtreprenuer" where I share my story and some tips for other momtreprenuers out there building their businesses.

I'll be sure to share the upcoming segments which include how to videos for making a simple toy box, a simple step stool, and two of my favorite recipes that even my kids love.

Subscribe to Kin Community here for access to a world of beautifully produced, informative how-to and parenting videos: http://bit.ly/KinParents

Building a Brand from the Beginning -- Keynote at Vegas Market on Aug 1

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Thu, 09 Aug 2012 03:46:00 +0000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 14:58:00 +0000

SHARK TANK Alum, Kiersten Hathcock, Shares Brand
Building Tips At Las Vegas Market

CONTACT:

Kiersten Hathcock

818-399-1172

publicrelations@modmomfurniture.com

(Los Angeles, CA., July 18, 2012) Kiersten Hathcock, CEO of Mod Mom Furniture, will share tips on what worked and what didn't work while building a brand with $0 and running a company despite roadblock after roadblock during her session, “Building a Brand From The Beginning.” She'll also discuss how she learned to trust her intuition even when the world was saying she was nuts to try to build and design furniture without start-up capital, design know-how, and carpentry experience. “I’m honored to have been asked to speak by World Market Center to share my experience with my industry peers. Going from a corporate marketing job to carpentry was never my career strategy but lay-offs, the economy, and a crazy idea made it a reality. If what I share helps even one person better their situation, I’m over the moon,” says Kiersten.

Hathcock will also share her experience on ABC’s SHARK TANK as well as working with celebrity clients. Attendees can expect to take away easy-to-apply brand building techniques from a down-to-earth entrepreneur who succeeded at building a respected brand in a tough economy.

Most recently, Kiersten was invited to be a speaker on the “Influential Women in Home Furnishings” panel for World Market in January of this year as well as a keynote presenter for the American Society of Furniture Design annual dinner in High Point, NC in April 2011. Katie Hatch, founder of Design | Intuition and former American Society of Furniture Designer Vice President said, "I've been in the furniture industry for twenty years, and when Kiersten contacted me out of the blue asking for sourcing advice, I was blown away by the amazing brand she had built for herself in such a short time and for quite literally zero dollars. In my experience, the home furnishings industry is strong on product, sourcing, and infrastructure, but we lack brand recognition. Every retailer, manufacturer and designer can and should capitalize on this wonderful session and learn from Kiersten's experience and brand building know how.”

Julia Rosien, CEO of Social North and WithIt President adds, “Kiersten and I met when we sat on a panel together for a WithIt event. To say I was impressed with her sincerity and passion on stage would be a gross understatement. Kiersten connects with her audience because she’s fought a hard battle in the trenches of entrepreneurship and she’s happy to share both the missteps and the successes with her audience. She knows true learning comes when we’re open and honest with each other about how hard (and rewarding) is to be an entrepreneur.“

BUILDING A BRAND FROM THE BEGINNING takes place on August 1, 2012 from 10:00 am - 11:00 am at Las Vegas World Market World Forum 16^th Floor - Building B. For more information, go to http://www.lasvegasmarket.com/show-highlights/calendar-market-events.html.

Mod Mom Furniture was born in a Los Angeles garage in 2007, the product of self-taught designer-turned-carpenter Kiersten Hathcock. Her unique, eco-friendly, child-proven furniture has been sold throughout the United States, Canada and abroad. Hathcock’s storage pieces have been featured in Dwell Magazine, Elle Décor, Los Angeles Times and Better Homes and Gardens as well as in episodes of ABC’s Shark Tank and the Nate Berkus Show. For more information visit modmomfurniture.com.

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Faith

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 20:07:00 +0000

Meet Mr. Peaches. (Formerly just Peaches)

These days, there seems to be so much change. Horrendous fires :( , flooding in Tampa to the point people were kayaking down their streets :(, Tom and Katie splitting :), and we have a bunny that we thought was a girl but turns out is a boy :). Change all around. Change used to scare me more than it does now. I think over the last year, I've gotten better at living in the moment and realizing that no matter how much control I feel I have over things, I really don't have much at all. I can only do my best and recognize that in my world, things happen as they should. Even the bad stuff. It's taken me a long time to get to this point, and I'm sure I have a lot more to learn, but I am taking comfort now in not knowing the answers or how things will play out tomorrow. I know lots of folks I know would call that faith.

Here's my faith list today:

1. I have faith that I will successfully fix a horrible highlighting job I did on my own hair with two lovely products from Loreal. I also have faith that I may just be calling my fantastic hair dresser to fix it after I've "fixed it". I'm ok with it. Hair is an adventure, right?

2. I have faith that I am on the right path in regards to Mod Mom Furniture growth as long as I recognize and listen to my intuition. If I don't, I will likely take the long road to where I'm going. I prefer the short road.

3. I have faith that I won't mysteriously lose 15 lbs for a video segment shoot next Tuesday even though my silly mind would like to make me think I should.

4. I have faith in Spanx for said video segment filming.

What do you have faith in today?

Keynote at Las Vegas World Market: Building a Brand from the Beginning

noreply@blogger.com (Kiersten) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 15:27:00 +0000

I've mentioned this before but now that its coming closer and closer (and I'm starting to work on the presentation and am getting SUPER excited about it), I thought I'd put it out there again. If you're heading to Las Vegas Market in July, come by on Wed, August 1 at 10am to hear me talk about what is working (and what didn't work) as Mod Mom grows. I'll share some inside stories, tips, failures, and in general, what I'm hoping folks will benefit from when building their own brands.

Hope to see you there!!

WHERE/WHEN:

Building a Brand from the Beginning

10:00 am - 11:00 am | World Forum - 16th Floor of Building B

DESCRIPTION:

Kiersten Hathcock, CEO of ModMom Furniture, will share tips on what worked and what didn't work while building a brand with $0 and running a company despite roadblock after roadblock. She'll also share how she learned to trust her intuition even when the world was saying she was nuts to try to build and design furniture without design or carpentry experience.