CALIFORNIA
A Digital Guide of Women Entrepreneurs The ultimate guide to women‑owned businesses in Los Angeles, Orange County and San Francisco, featuring entrepreneurs YOU need to know First Edition
CRAVE California: A Digital Guide of Women Entrepreneurs A publication of The CRAVE Company 1805 12th Ave W #A Seattle WA 98119 206.282.0173 thecravecompany.com twitter.com/cravecompany facebook.com/cravecompany © 2013 The CRAVE Company. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system nor transmitted in any form, by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise—without prior written permission of the copyright owner. While every effort was made to ensure the accuracy of the information, details are subject to change so please call ahead. The CRAVE Company shall not be responsible for any consequences arising from the publication or use. All editorial content in this publication is the sole opinion of CRAVE and our contributing writers. First Edition July 2013
CALIFORNIA
A Digital Guide of Women Entrepreneurs We CRAVE Community. We believe in acknowledging, celebrating and passionately supporting women-owned businesses. CRAVE is a celebration of women entrepreneurs that showcases some of the most creative, interesting and gutsy proprietors across North America and beyond. Our goal is to connect these women both to each other and to you. We are pleased to introduce you to the women behind the idea, the design, the product. We CRAVE Quality. CRAVE is all about quality products and thoughtful service. We know that a satisfying shopping trip requires more than a simple exchange of money for goods, and that a rejuvenating spa date entails more than a quick clip of the cuticles and a swipe of polish. We know you want to come away feeling uplifted, beautiful, excited, relaxed, relieved and, above all, knowing you got the most bang for your buck. We have scoured the region to find the hidden gems, new hot spots and old standbys, all with one thing in common: they’re the best of the best! We CRAVE Inspiration. By introducing you to the savvy businesswomen in this guide, we hope that CRAVE will help inspire your own inner entrepreneur. We want you to realize the energy and the desire to light a fire under your own ideas and passions, be it in business or anywhere else in your life. We all have fears and doubts, but the women in these pages refuse to talk themselves out of their dreams. Here’s to following in their footsteps!
118 Degrees Costa Mesa, Anaheim, and Laguna Niguel Delicious. Fresh. Sustainable. 118 Degrees offers delicious and nutritious plant-based foods in an artful environment designed to foster community. Their mission is to inspire individuals toward their greatest health by enjoying a diet rich in life-giving living foods. Chef Jenny Ross has been a pioneering spirit in the raw foods movement since 2001. Her food is fun, fresh and inviting.
Specialty: Living Foods Cuisine 2981 Bristol, Ste B5, Costa Mesa, 714.754.0718 185 W Center Street Promenade, Anaheim, 714.772.2695 32371 Golden Lantern, Laguna Niguel, 949.496.1100 118degrees.com, Twitter: @118degrees
Lower-left photo by inGRACE photography
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Orange County
What are your most popular products or services? The Raw Basics Detox and weekly mealplan services. Our Sunday brunch includes an organic mimosa! Our hands-on classes are always packed with wonderful guests and bountiful wellness information. What do you like best about owning a business? Being inspired. I am continually moved by the process of this evolving and ever-expanding business, by our amazing customers and our extraordinary team. Breathing this inspiration in every day is sheer bliss.
Jenny Ross
What motivates you on a daily basis? There is great joy in seeing others come through a healing crisis and out the other side, as a direct result of changing their diet. I also really love dancing in the kitchen! 11
Photo by inGRACE photography
“Don’t worry about what others think. Fulfill your vision because it’s uniquely yours—your gift to the world, and it should be a beautiful reflection of your unique gift.” —Jenny Ross, 118 Degrees
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Whatever you do, be consistent! That is an absolute must for success. And believe wholeheartedly in yourself and what you’re doing.
BJ Dudley
What do you like best about owning a business? Freedom! What motivates you on a daily basis? I start off every single day with a mastermind group call, and having that accountability to others is a game changer. What is your motto or theme song? Absolutely anything is possible, so don’t ever stop dreaming. And when you do... dream big!
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Orange County
333 Candle Company Orange County, California Hand-poured. Beautiful. Eco-Friendly. 333 Candle Company specializes in hand-poured all-natural soy candles. Available in a variety of sizes, they are eco-friendly, one-of-a-kind and made with incredible fragrances and blends. Also available are their custom-made / private label candles for businesses and special events. They are beautiful and make great gifts.
Photos by inGRACE photography
Specialty: Custom and One-of-a-kind Hand-Poured Soy Candles 714.328.9097, 333CandleCompany.com
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What are your most popular products or services? Our branded series and nonprofit strategies. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Surround yourself with like-minded professionals who can help you to grow your business and theirs.
Hillary Gadsby
What do you like best about owning a business? I love meeting new people and helping those people do business more strategically. Who is your role model or mentor? My mother because she picks herself back up no matter what happens. What motivates you on a daily basis? My passion for the business and helping companies and nonprofits develop their brand. What is your motto or theme song? Never give up. How do you relax? I wish I could, but my mind moves a million miles a minute. I like to do things outdoors to clear my mind. What place inspires you? Paris is my favorite place in the world. The people are stylish, business-savvy and cultured.
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Los Angeles
A Gadsby Affair & Stilettogal Los Angeles, California
Photos by Shani Barel Photography
Creative. Strategic. Stylish. A Gadsby Affair is an international, full-service firm providing strategic marketing services to help businesses achieve maximum gain in their target markets, retain customers and build brand equity through unique and customized experiences and events. They will raise, lift and support your organization to reach new heights. On the blog Stilettogal, owner Hillary Gadsby tells the story of herself as a woman entrepreneur and everything a woman goes through while building a business. The Thursday feature called “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes� gives other women in business a chance to blog. Stilettogal: A day in the life of a woman entrepreneur as told by her shoes.
Specialties: Strategic Marketing 310.773.9482, agadsbyaffair.com Twitter: @agadsbyaffair stilettogal.com
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Go for it! Find your passion! Listen to advice and utilize what seems to make sense to you. Delegate, then follow up and don’t assume anything. Take time for yourself. What do you like best about owning a business? No boss! A second career after nursing for 30 years, where I have a huge creative outlet. Socialization with fun people! I hire people who love to come to work.
Diane Silverstein
16
Orange County
How do you relax? Several vacations a year. Glass of champagne, end of the day outside the store in my swing chair, enjoying our award-winning window displays. They truly are amazing at night.
Absolutely Fabulous Huntington Beach, California Edgy. Classy. Blingy. Absolutely Fabulous is a destination store in Huntington Beach. The variety of product is tremendous! Gifts, home decor, gorgeous fabrics and art can all be found here for every lifestyle and pocket. Every treasure found is gift wrapped beautifully. One visit to Absolutely Fabulous shows you why they have won five prestigious national awards in the last two years! Champagne is served daily!
Photos by Ian Souter, except lower-right photo by Cheri Bradshaw Photography
Specialties: Unique Gifts and Decor 6026 Warner Ave, Huntington Beach, 714.842.1608 absolutelyfabulous1.com facebook.com/AbFabHB, Twitter: @AbFabHB
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Photos by inGRACE photography
Accelerated Marketing Services Orange County, California Creative. Focused. Profit-driven. Accelerated Marketing Services (AMS) provides cost-effective marketing solutions and personalized service to businesses all over the United States. AMS will help you create an effective, scalable strategy that drives customers to your business and engages them for ongoing business. With the resources available today, AMS can take your business to the next level. AMS turns prospects into customers and customers into brand advocates and raving fans.
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Orange County
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Get your strategy in place before you jump in feet first. Tactics without strategy produce stress and failed results.
Lisa Goodwin
What do you like best about owning a business? Having no limits to what I can do to help others. What motivates you on a daily basis? My incredible clients. I am also motivated by my genuine drive to succeed. How do you relax? I sleep... something that gets neglected when building a business. What do you CRAVE? Peace and prosperity.
Specialties: Marketing, Branding, Messaging and Social Media 949.922.3289, AcceleratedMarketingServices.com facebook.com/AcceleratedMarketingServices, Twitter: @AccelerateMktg
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“Live your life like you have already achieved your wildest dreams.” —Lisa Goodwin, Accelerated Marketing Services
Photo by inGRACE photography
What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom to be creative. Turning a dream into a reality. We’re in the business of improving the lives of those who live in the community where we do business. What motivates you on a daily basis? Each day is an opportunity to be stronger, wiser and better. What is your motto or theme song? Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.
Mary Lee
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Los Angeles
What inspires you? Swimming at the edge of Africa’s Victoria Falls, if you’re prepared to make a short leap of faith. When you do, things aren’t as scary as they seem.
Alchemie Santa Monica, California Luxurious. Sustainable. High-quality. On Main Street in Santa Monica, Alchemie offers a modern retreat inspired by nature. The space feels more like a loft than spa; in the well-equipped treatment rooms, clients enjoy unrushed services. Facials rely on natural ingredients from fruits, plants and spices to revive, protect and hydrate the skin. There is waxing and tinting as well as organic nail treatments with Butter London polish.
Photos by Leslie Rodriguez
Specialties: Organic Facials, Nails, Massage, Waxing 2021 W Main St, Santa Monica 310.310.8880 alchemiespa.com facebook.com/AlchemieSpa Twitter: @alchemiespa
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Photo by Leslie Rodriguez
“Follow your passion. Believe in yourself. Smile at your fears.” —Mary Lee, Alchemie
Ann Bennett Marketing Orange County, California Creative. Edgy. Audacious. Ann Bennett specializes in relationship marketing for women entrepreneurs who think marketing sucks! She accentuates your authenticity and creativity to attract more clients and more money, and have a lot more fun!
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Orange County
Photos by inGRACE photography
Specialties: Client Attraction and Message Development 949.287.6410, annbennettmarketing.com Twitter: @annpbennett
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t make it so damn hard... it’s not that complicated! Success is a system. Period. Just add innovation, and be your unique self. Magnify that! Because that’s what your clients will buy. What do you like best about owning a business? The creativity! I love that I can always create something new. It’s my joy to see the uniqueness in others, to help them bring that out and support them in being fearless.
Ann Bennett
What motivates you on a daily basis? Being of service... making a contribution. Wanting to leave a footprint and knowing that my life was well lived and that I made a difference in the lives of others. 23
Art Works Studio & Classroom, Coffee + Food and Sunday Night Dinner NOLA and SORO, Los Angeles Inspired. Delicious. Practical. Art Works Studio & Classroom offers fine art classes and camps. Coffee + Food offers stellar coffee and quality, wholesome food at a neighborhood café. Sunday Night Dinner has provided high-end craft services for the television industry for 15 years. All three businesses thrive under the helm of photographer-turned-entrepreneur Cyndi Finkle, whose love of food, people and the arts fuels her endeavors.
Specialties: Art Classes and Camps, Café and Craft Services Art Works Studio & Classroom: 660 N Larchmont Blvd, Los Angeles, 323.463.2562 2803 S Robertson Blvd (at Olin St), Los Angeles, 310.202.1894 artworksstudio.org, Twitter: @artworksworks Coffee + Food: 5630 Melrose Ave (at Larchmont Blvd), Los Angeles 323.962.3390, coffeeplusfood.com, Twitter: @coffeeplusfood Sunday Night Dinner: 213.280.3239, sndcrafty.com, Twitter: @cyndifinkle
Photos by Marcia Prentice
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Los Angeles
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Love and believe in what you do. Encourage and help other women business owners, and it will be returned tenfold. Share your passion with your clients. What do you like best about owning a business? I love that my business solves problems, creates jobs and gives me the freedom to manage my own work life.
Cyndi Finkle
What is your motto or theme song? My motto is also the name of my blog, and that is practical and meaningful. Everything I do and everything I care about can be linked to those two words.
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What are your most popular products or services? From lasagne to tacos, tiramisu to key lime pie, pure plant pleasure delights the palate. Catering a Living Cuisine Party is always a showstopper! What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be grateful. Act with love. Check your motives. Watch your attitude. Forgive. The more you are motivated by love, the more fearless and free your success will be.
Marchell Williams
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Orange County
What place inspires you and why? The garden because it is a continual season of new life and regeneration. It gives without expectations. We can gain much from watching a garden grow, die and live again.
Au NatuRaw The Artists’ Village, Santa Ana
Photos by inGRACE photography
Organic. Revitalizing. Sustainable. Au NatuRaw is committed to providing living cuisine using organic vegetables, sprouted grains, nuts and seeds. The conscientious menu nourishes the body, stimulates the mind and awakens the soul to radiant health. When you choose to eat a meal at Au NatuRaw, you are an active participant in ensuring the redemption and continued well-being of our planet, securing a healthier environment for future generations.
Specialties: Live Gourmet Cuisine, Juice Cleansing, Education 206 N Broadway, The Artists’ Village, Santa Ana, 714.955.4774 aunaturaw.com, Twitter: @AuNaturaw
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Photos by inGRACE photography
Backward Prints Orange County, California Green. Handmade. Whimsical. Backward Prints was created with all intentions of reminding people to smile and laugh. Laguna Beach artist Brynne Cogorno shows love for life and attention for our planet through her cards. Backward Prints uses tree-free paper made from plant fibers and organic cotton, and each card is embedded with wildflower seeds. The cards are hand-printed using the block-printing technique, making each card unique.
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Orange County
What are your most popular products or services? Eco notes that grow and screen-printed organic T-shirts. I also create custom cards for businesses, and specialize in green wedding invitations. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be strong and confident; most importantly, believe in yourself. Network with other like-minded people, and have someone you can share your goals with. Good luck!
Brynne Cogorno
What is your motto or theme song? Backward Prints represents following your dreams and not being afraid to do things differently.
Specialties: Eco-friendly Stationery and Organic T-shirts 949.275.1926 backwardprints.com Twitter: @backwardprints
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What are your products or services? Clients call me for help with relationships, chronic illness, chronic pain, trauma, cancer and medical treatment issues, grief, loss, depression, anxiety, personal and spiritual growth. My work is to help a client to grow to their full potential as a unique, mentally healthy, joyous person.
Barbara Miner
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Know what you love and share that passion with confidence. You have a special light to share with the world. We need you and your light! What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom to create and manage my own business with the joy of knowing that I am contributing to others’ health.
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Los Angeles
Barbara E. Miner, Psy.D., A Psychology Corporation Pasadena, California Caring. Calm. Comforting. We all have times when life becomes more than we can manage. Our difficulties may stem from relationships, trauma, our health, loss or any number of life complications. Dr. Barbara Miner offers a safe space to talk, breathe and heal. She helps each client grow to their full potential as a beautiful, unique person within a healthy and supportive community.
Photos by Danette Mitchell
Specialty: Counseling 626.792.4500, barbaraminer.com facebook.com/barbaraeminerpsyd
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Bback 4 more cakes Los Angeles, California Delicious. Decadent. Special. Bback 4 more cakes features the most delicious, decadent cakes, muffins, cupcakes, pastries, truffles, cake pops and gluten-free items, made from scratch with premium and all-natural ingredients. Everything is made to order; nothing gets frozen. Bback 4 more cakes can also cater your party or event. There’s always time to enjoy a little dessert once in a while; they even make sugar-free ones!
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Los Angeles
Photos by Leslie Rodriguez
Specialties: Cakes, Pastries, Desserts, Truffles, Gluten-Free bback4morecaakes.com facebook.com/bbackal, Twitter: @bback4morecakes
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be persistent and believe in yourself: that is what my crave coach taught me. What do you like best about owning a business? Freedom! Who is your role model or mentor? My mother has always been my hero, model and best friend.
Chef Brenda Backal
What is your biggest fear? Disappointing any of my clients or myself. What motivates you on a daily basis? Knowing that there is someone who is loving my products.
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What are your most popular products or services? Mastermind groups and new platforms for local and national businesses and entrepreneurs to connect and collaborate where they can be spotlighted and featured in the communities they serve.
Sheryl Lynn
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Stay engaged with other like-minded people. Connect, collaborate and participate in relationships that support your growth and make increasing profitability a fun, easy and joyful process. What is your motto or theme song? “Living a Beautiful Life” written and performed by Kelly Moore and Diana Ditri. These two amazing women have produced our very own theme song that’s a hit!
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Orange County
Beautiful Life Productions Newport Beach, California Inspiring. Motivating. Collaborative. Beautiful Life Productions is a business-networking organization, that specializes in creating unique platforms and stages for business owners, which helps them increase their profitability. BLP’s programs include their yearlong mastermind group. Beautiful Life Productions stands on the belief that “when we collaborate as if we could not fail”, it supports everyone involved.
Specialties: Business Networking Events and Yearlong Mastermind Groups 1300 N Bristol St, Ste 100, Newport Beach 949.474.0649, BeautifulLifeProductions.com Twitter: @beautifullifepr
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What are your most popular products or services? We are known for our spectacular jewelry, fine and costume. Anyone who looks in our windows cannot help but go inside to see more. What do you like best about owning a business? Getting the enjoyment of seeing the customers’ positive reactions to the pieces I buy for the store.
Leora Mesica
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Los Angeles
What place inspires you and why? European cities centered around the fashion industry because the energy there has a way of enveloping you and pushing you forward.
Beauty Bar Beverly Hills, California
Photos by Leslie Rodriguez
Stylish. Unique. Addictive. Beauty Bar offers its customers a chance to travel the world of fashion without ever leaving Beverly Hills. Showcasing uncommonly beautiful, cutting-edge designer jewelry from Europe and high fashion pieces from international runways. There’s always something new and exciting in the store, whose repeat customers will tell you, “Beauty Bar is an addiction.” A perfect place for gifts.
Specialties: Jewelry, Accessories and Clothing 158 South Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, 310.271.0071 shopbeautybar.com
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Photos by Leslie Rodriguez, except portrait by Grant Mudford
BedHead Pajamas West Hollywood, Los Angeles Sophisticated. Surprising. Cozy. BedHead Pajamas offers a wide selection of finely tailored cotton sleepwear for the entire family. The brand is known for its fashion-forward colorful prints. A flagship store in NYC recently opened in Nolita, taking a lot of California color to the East Coast. The prints are original in-house designs by Renee Claire and all product is made in glamorous Los Angeles.
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Los Angeles
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? I would spend the time and the money to find a consultant who can help steer the ship. This person should help pave the way to success. What do you like best about owning a business? I simply love coming to work every day: we have an exciting crew, and each day brings newness, whether it’s a great order, a new print that just came in, etc.
Renee Claire Bertrand
What is your motto or theme song? Stay curious. For me, that means being open for newness—great design—for the next project.
Specialty: Fine Cotton Printed Pajamas 8336 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, 323.653.8336 BedHeadPajamas.com, Twitter: @BedHeadPajamas
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Never give up: there are ups and downs of starting a new business and, at times, it can be really frustrating. It will happen if you really want it. What do you like best about owning a business? I love the creativity and flexibility of it. There’s always something different to do, and you need to be creative to break into an already existing market. What motivates you on a daily basis? The challenge of making my idea into a real business!
Jennifer Dermer
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Los Angeles
How do you relax? Hiking or going to the beach.
Bloom Showroom Downtown Los Angeles
Photos by Leslie Rodriguez
Creative. Natural. Handmade. BLOOM Showroom is an independent showroom in downtown Los Angeles that handles sales and publicity services for emerging designers. BLOOM Showroom focuses on emerging designers in need of representation to handle all aspects of their business, from getting the jewelry/clothing into stores to generating buzz throughout the industry.
Specialties: Jewelry and Eco-Friendly Fashion By appointment only: 215 W 6th St, Ste 501, Los Angeles bloomlashowroom.com facebook.com/bloomshowroom, Twitter: @bloomshowroom
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What do you like best about owning a business? The pleasure of balancing all the elements—from hand-selecting the product, to putting together a vibrant staff, to meeting the expectations of our diverse clientele. Who is your role model or mentor? My mother, Lucy Spector. She put all of her indomitable style and spirit into this business to cultivate it into what it is today.
Sharman Spector
What is your motto or theme song? Look and lean forward! One can’t rely on how things were always done. Don’t look back, move forward. How do you relax? Baking is a pleasure passed down to me by my Austrian Grandmother, Omi.
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San Francisco
Britex Fabrics Union Square, San Francisco
Photos by U Me Us Studios
High-quality. Colorful. Overflowing. A San Francisco landmark since 1952, Britex Fabrics is a must-visit for designers, sewers, DIY-ers and anyone seeking creative inspiration. The four story, family-run fabric store contains fabrics, laces, ribbons, notions and buttons from around the world, plus a knowledgeable and multilingual staff. With a careful blend of innovation and tradition, Britex Fabrics features textiles from up-and-coming designers and fashion icons.
Specialties: Fashion Fabrics, Home Decor and Sewing Needs 146 Geary St, San Francisco, 415.392.2910 britexfabrics.com, Twitter: @Britex_Fabrics
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Photo by U Me Us Studios
“Love what you do and never let anyone tell you can’t do it.” —Sharman Spector, Britex Fabrics
What do you like best about owning a business? Being a conduit, empowering women to launch and then take their business to the next level, getting clients local and national press in a matter of weeks. Establishing and sharing my unique relationships and contacts. Using my experience as a former television producer to benefit my clients.
Stacie Krajchir-Tom
What motivates you on a daily basis? All the possibilities that lie right around the corner, and what’s next. Reinventing myself and my brand, telling stories. I love sharing curious finds, products, ideas, people and places. What is your motto or theme song? If you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten.
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Los Angeles
The Bungalow PR and The See and Sprout Project Los Angeles, California
Photos by Marcia Prentice
Generous. Innovative. Inspiring. The Bungalow PR specializes in fashion, beauty, eco, home and lifestyle products. The Bungalow introduces clients to their vast network of media contacts in a creative, innovative way. Their visionary Bungalow PR-to-go concept has empowered women to do PR themselves with great success. This boutique firm, adjacent to the beach, is known for doing things just a little differently, and as a result, they help create a lot of forward-thinking clients/companies along the way. The See and Sprout Project is a philanthropic creative collective that launched in Thailand after the 2007 tsunami. They put cameras into the hands of youth who have been affected by devastating natural disasters and exhibit the photographs. Profits are given directly back to the kids.
Specialties: Fashion, Beauty, Eco, Home and Lifestyle Products The Bungalow PR: 310.313.1643 thebungalowpr.com, Twitter: @thebungalowpr The See and Sprout Project: 310.313.1643 seeandsprout.com, Twitter: @seeandsprout
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Photos by Marcia Prentice
Caitlin & Caitlin Design Co. Los Angeles, California Delightful. Clever. Refreshing. Caitlin & Caitlin Design Co. provides fresh interior design solutions for projects of every scale, from consulting to full remodels. Through close attention to the client’s needs combined with a vast understanding of the marketplace, C & C creates luxe, one-of-a-kind environments on any budget. Specializing in eclectic design concepts and chic, unique spaces, Caitlin & Caitlin introduces clients to lovelier living.
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Los Angeles
What are your most popular products or services? The redesign. Most people aren’t starting from scratch. They want an update that incorporates pieces that they still love. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Have a savings account and part-time work opportunities to supplement income. And don’t give up!
Caitlin McCarthy and Caitlin Murray
What do you like best about owning a business? The very personal relationship our clients feel like they have with us through the service they get. And the ability to trust an instinct. Never lets you down!
Specialties: Interior Design, Consulting 310.663.7348, caitlinandcaitlin.com facebook.com/caitlinandcaitlin
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What are your most popular products or services? Mimosas, French toast, fried chicken, perfect eggs at brunch, Barcelona delusion, boeuf bourgignon, branzino, jamon serrano, and garrotxa cheese. People may be surprised to know... We don’t take reservations, only walk-ins. What or who inspired you to start your business? Alice Waters and the local food movement.
Corina Weibel
What is your indulgence? Butter. What do you CRAVE? In business? In life? Good food, good company, laughter, love...
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Los Angeles
canelé Atwater Village, Los Angeles
Photos by Leslie Rodriguez Photography
Local. Casual. Colorful. A warm and welcoming neighborhood bistro with bar seating and a communal table, canelé serves a seasonal menu based on what’s available in the local farmers markets. The restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday, and for brunch on Saturday and Sunday.
Specialties: Fresh and Seasonal Eats 3219 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, 323.666.7133 canele-la.com, Twitter: @canele_la facebook.com/canele.la
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Get involved with networking groups. You can find many answers and advice from others in your same situation. What do you like best about owning a business? There is a feeling of freedom when you wake up knowing that you’re in control of your day.
Lisa Kimbrough
What place inspires you and why? The craft store. There are so many beautiful embellishments. I get so many ideas walking around in there. What do you CRAVE? Espresso coffee, good wine and good eats!
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Orange County
Cards by Lisa K Orange County, California
Photos by inGRACE photography
Creative. Fun. Classy. Cards by Lisa K features unique handmade cards for all occasions as well as classy custom logo thank-you cards for businesses that want to give their clients a lasting impression. Cards by Lisa K can be found in some of Orange County’s best neighborhood stores. Visit the online store for amazing creative cards; these are not just your ordinary greeting cards, this is art!
Specialty: Beautiful and Unique Handmade Greeting Cards 714.244.0951 CardsbyLisaK.com facebook.com/CardsbyLisakk
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Cause Fitness Los Angeles, California Customized. Empowering. Effective. Founded by certified personal trainer/nutritionist and celebrity fitness personality Rachel Elizabeth Murray, Cause Fitness is a Los Angeles–based holistic fitness and lifestyle services brand that strives to provide the highest-quality training and nutrition services available, while educating and empowering you to “be the cause of your own fitness effect.� Cause Fitness provides services while teaching skills that will last a lifetime.
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Los Angeles
Left page: left photo by Cory Sorensen, right photo by Mike Luong Right page: photos by LHGFX Photography
Specialties: Personal Training, Nutrition Coaching, Fat Loss 424.253.8535 causefitness.com facebook.com/rachelizabethm Twitter: @causefitness linkedin.com/in/rachelizabethm
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be clear about what you want immediately, and in the future. No dream is too big. Write it down. What do you like best about owning a business? Schedule flexibility! How do you relax? I relieve stress at the gym with heavy lifting and intensity; then I relax with massages, lavender-scented things and bubble baths!
Rachel Elizabeth Murray
What do you CRAVE? Freedom, adventure, inspiration, travel, spontaneity and creativity.
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What are your most popular products or services? Quality upscale furniture at a reduced price. We can copy anything or make anything from a drawing too! What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be positive and strong! Make sure you have enough capital.
Debi Barish
What do you like best about owning a business? The ability to choose my vendors based on price and quality. Who is your role model or mentor? I love Sabrina Soto from HGTV. But mostly the previous owner of my business, Rose Banks.
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Orange County
Chaise & Lounge Aliso Viejo, California
Photos by inGRACE photography
Chic. Hip. Custom. Chaise & Lounge offers a unique home-furnishing option. All upholstery is benchmade right here in the USA. They are experts at finding a look that represents their customers’ personalities and lifestyles and that fits their budget. They also do custom sizes for tricky spaces. They can make you a sofa or decorate your home from A to Z.
Specialties: Custom Furniture, Interior Design 67 Vantis Dr, Aliso Viejo, 949.643.2060 chaiseloungestudio.com
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Cheri Bradshaw Photography Orange County, California Custom. Fun. Friendly. Cheri Bradshaw Photography is the perfect combination of fun, edgy and classic. CBP specializes in portraiture and weddings. A relaxed, unhurried style results in longer sessions and clients who routinely become dear friends. “I am in love with what I do,” says Cheri. “I’m able to preserve precious moments for my clients to cherish and I’m also rewarded with wonderful friendships that last a lifetime.”
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Orange County
Photos by Cheri Bradshaw Photography
Specialty: Portraiture and Wedding Photography 949.422.9704, cheribradshaw.com, Twitter: @cheribradshaw facebook.com/cheribradshawphotography linkedin.comin/cheribradshawphotography
Cheri Bradshaw
What are your most popular products or services? Most popular are children, family, holidaythemed and boudoir sessions. Our “OohLaLa!” sessions yield very sexy portraits with your choice of model— the perfect pick-me-up for someone between boyfriends or newly divorced. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be sure what you are doing is near and dear to your heart: something you truly love. Because there will be ups, downs and lots of time required to make it work. What do you like best about owning a business? What I like best about owning a business is the creative control and the freedom to take an afternoon off when I need to go to the beach to recharge.
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? It is very important to fully understand every aspect of a business, from operations to management, before opening your business. This knowledge will allow you to correctly train and direct everyone working with you on how to be successful. What do you like best about owning a business? The satisfaction of creating something that benefits others and brings people happiness is truly rewarding.
Fawn Dixon
40
Los Angeles
Who is your role model or mentor? My mother in my mentor. She has owned salons for as long as I can remember. Working with her is where I began my education and learned what it takes to own and manage a salon.
CHI nail bar & organic spa Beverly Hills, California
KI nail bar & organic spa Downtown Los Angeles Modern. Indulgent. Immaculate. CHI nail bar & organic spa is a premier full-service nail salon in Beverly Hills providing customers with fabulously indulgent nail care while maintaining the highest level of cleanliness and sterilization available today. To ensure that you are protected, all equipment is medically sterilized and a fresh set of tools is used each time; all files and buffers are yours to keep.
Portrait by Jolie Kinga, lower-left photos by Caroline Tran Photography
Specialty: Fabulous Nails, Fingers, and Toes CHI: 9390 Little Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills 310.858.8803, chi-nailbar.com facebook.com/CHInailbar Twitter: @CHInailbar, Instagram: @CHInailbar KI: 105 Japanese Village Plaza, Los Angeles 213.928.0888, ki-nailbar.com facebook.com/KInailbar.com Twitter: @KInailbar
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Photos by Marcia Prentice
Cindi Lee Yoga Los Angeles, California Dynamic. Efficient. Energizing. Cindi Lee On Site Corporate Yoga features yoga classes for busy employees. It’s the corporate benefit that keeps employees happy and healthy! One of the best perks is the convenience of corporate yoga. No extra time is needed to go to a yoga studio; they come to you. The yoga classes are great for stress management, reducing pain, clearing the mind, and igniting creativity.
42
Los Angeles
What are your most popular products or services? Early Bird Yoga, Lunchtime Yoga and Happy Hour Yoga in the evenings. Plus YouTube videos on how to incorporate yoga at your desk, in your office and in long meetings. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Follow your heart and go after your desires no matter what. Also, learn how to structure your business. Be open to receive the support that you need to live your dreams.
Cindi Lee
What do you like best about owning a business? Offering services that provide instant and long-lasting health benefits to my clients. I appreciate the freedom and the hundreds of life lessons that I’ve learned along the way.
Specialty: Corporate Yoga for Everyone 818.472.6317, cindileeyoga.com, Twitter: @cindilee14
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? It’s going to be more challenging than you thought, so make sure that you are absolutely all-in and passionate about what you’ll be doing. If you lack passion, you won’t keep going when it gets hard, and you’ll quit before you see the payoff. What do you like best about owning a business? I love nothing more than being my own boss and calling 100 percent of the shots myself.
Kristie Garduño
36
Orange County
What is your motto or theme song? “Be Better”—A born perfectionist, I finally realized that no matter how hard anyone (including me) tries, perfection is impossible. But if I aim to be better than yesterday, rather than perfect, my life is constantly improving.
Clients Kneaded
Mobile Massage & Spa Orange County, California
Photos by inGRACE photography
Attentive. Client-driven. Unique. Clients Kneaded delivers the spa directly to your location. Whether for a single person, a party of 10 or a convention center of 5,000, they deliver what clients want, rather than guessing what they need. Their services include in-home massage and spa treatments, in-office massage, spa parties (for girls of all ages), and they also travel to convention centers nationwide.
Specialties: Massage, Spa Treatments and Body Care 562.367.5308, clientskneaded.com facebook.com/clientskneaded linkedin.com/in/clientskneaded
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Core Pilates Inc. Newport Beach, California Energetic. Inspiring. Effective. The Core Pilates studio offers a serene and rejuvenating environment, specifically designed to help enhance the mind, body and spirit. Certified in a variety of Pilates methods including Body Arts and Science, Power Pilates and Physical Mind, the instructors at Core have combined experience of more than 20 years of Pilates instruction.
Specialty: Pilates 363 San Miguel, Ste 100, Newport Beach 949.759.1500 corepilatesinc.com facebook.com/corepilatesinc
Photos by Cheri Bradshaw Photography
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Orange County
What are your most popular products or services? Private/Semi-Private sessions, which are small enough to enable more individual attention. The latest in fitness apparel and accessories can be found at the Core Store.
Deena E. Nichols
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? If you follow your passion, you will discover your inner gifts, and work will become a joyful, rewarding experience. What do you like best about owning a business? The ability to stay connected and grow with the inspiring people in my community. What motivates you? We have an open team-oriented atmosphere, and when our clients share how much better they feel after meeting their own fitness goals, I cannot help but be inspired. What is your motto? We stay focused on our clients’ needs through positive energy that comes from a joint vision of trust, enthusiasm and purpose. What do you CRAVE? Learning! I want to grow and learn every day from the amazing people I connect with in my studio and in our beautiful community. 39
San Juan Capistrano, California Charming. Eclectic. Friendly. Cottage Home and Garden is a unique shopping experience, offering an eclectic and diverse product line, all at fabulous prices. They incorporate varied products all in the charming ambience of the historical old West! A truly unique shop and area.
Specialties: Eclectic Garden Art and Accessories 31720 Los Rios St, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3920 cottage-home-and-garden.com
40
Orange County
Photos by Flare Productions
Cottage Home and Garden
What are your most popular products or services? We are fortunate to have you covered in two completely different areas. Our custom metal garden art and statuary along with succulents, planted birdcages and fairy gardens are very popular. Our wonderful women’s accessories have become a real hit, too. What do you like best about owning a business? I control my own decisions, which is very empowering, and to be able to do it with my daughter is extremely meaningful.
Richelle Rowland
What inspires you? Travel in the United States, Mexico and Europe gives me many of my design inspirations.
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What are your most popular products or services? Our most popular services are our CrossFit Crews. These small groups meet two to three times per week to train and work toward accomplishing individually set fitness goals.
Jill Baker
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Grow intentionally: Plan. Build infrastructure. Grow. Repeat. Being intentional and methodical will allow you to maintain high-quality service for your current clients through each stage of growth. How do you relax? Silence. I love reading, cuddle time with my family and just about anything outside in nature. And more silence.
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Orange County
CrossFit Fly Newport Beach, California Challenging. Effective. Empowering. CrossFit Fly is a fitness training facility with programs designed specifically for women. They practice CrossFit methodologies in a safe and supportive environment. While the place is attractive and comfortable, the workouts are anything but. Clients achieve and exceed limits beyond comfort zones in true CrossFit style. Pursuing the next level of athleticism, these ladies expect and receive high-class service and hard-core results.
Photos by inGRACE photography
Specialties: Strength and Conditioning for Women By appointment only: 3767 Birch St, Newport Beach 949.500.5728, crossfitfly.com facebook.com/CrossFitFly, Twitter: @crossfitfly
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Upper left photo by Corina Marie Photography, portrait by Kawai Matthews
D’Lashes by Dionne Phillips Los Angeles, California Luxurious. Modern. Innovative. D’Lashes approaches lash design with a feminine, modern point of view. Her goal is to create eyelashes that embrace fashion with an effortless elegance and confidence. D’Lashes encapsulates a fresh version of glamor that evades fresh looks today. Dionne’s technique can give women a new “lash” on life. A cancer patient can restore her sense of self. D’Lashes has garnered editorial acclaim for both her lash styles and expert advice for celebrities. Lash out with D’Lashes, and discover why Dionne is the Queen of Eyelashes.
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Los Angeles
What do you like best about owning a business? Making my clients happy and owning my decisions to create a world of beauty. When I see them smile and laugh, it makes me happy that they believe in D’Lashes.
Dionne Phillips
What is your biggest fear? My biggest fear is that I cannot do all the things in life that I set out to do. Who is your role model or mentor? My mother for her strength and perseverance to never except no for an answer. My fashion/family role model is Victoria Beckham. She encompasses the epitome of fashion and her beautiful family life.
Specialty: Custom, Luxury, Individual Eyelash Extensions 310.552.8174, DLashes.com facebook.com/dlashes, Twitter: @DLashes
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Photo by Corina Marie Photography
“The tip I would give women who are starting a business is to fully believe in your vision. You have to follow through on the details to make it happen.” —Dionne Phillips, D’Lashes by Dionne Phillips
DeAnna DuPree International and Social Butterfly Apps Orange County, California Engaging. Creative. Lavish. Superior to the professional networking of just a few short years ago, social media has revolutionized the concept of connecting with like-minded professionals, all of whom have the intent of growing their brands by exposing and sharing their passions. DeAnna DuPree International puts a fun yet laser-sharp focus on the need to get social or get left behind!
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Orange County
Photos by inGRACE photography
Specialties: Social Media Management and Training, and Special Event Production 323.400.5621, thisisdeanna.com, Twitter: @DeAnnaDuPree facebook.com/SimplyDeAnnaDuPree socialbutterflyapps.com, Twitter: @SclBttrflyApps
What are your most popular products or services? Social media mobile apps for Facebook, Talking to Strangers (e-book: Online Guide to Engaging Prospects), social media training and consulting. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Never give up. Position yourself around people, mainly women, who will lift and build you up. Embrace failure, as failure is a part of success. Adversity builds character. Face everything and recover.
DeAnna DuPree
What do you like best about owning a business? Sleeping in! Freedom... being in a class of my own. It takes a special kind of girl to be a successful entrepreneur.
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Find something that is special to you, has all of your favorite qualities and reflects you! What do you like best about owning a business? I love working hard for myself and providing a service that makes people happy. Who is your role model or mentor? My parents are my role models because they have instilled in me such a strong work ethic. My mentors are successful business owners who have made it on their own.
Krista Thompson
46
Orange County
What is your motto or theme song? “Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever.� —Tinkerbell
Dolly’s Sweet Dreams Cotton Candy Los Angeles and Orange County, California
Upper-left photo by inGRACE photography
Sweet. Memorable. Unique. Looking for a show-stopping and delightful addition to your next upcoming event? Dolly’s Sweet Dreams Cotton Candy catering is guaranteed to spark memories and create smiles! Dazzle your guests with Dolly’s custom Deluxe Dream Cart, and watch the magic as she spins fresh cotton candy, shaved ice and popcorn. Dolly’s catering is perfect for birthdays, corporate events, weddings, baby showers and more!
Specialty: On-site Cotton Candy Catering 714.742.1314, dollyscottoncandy.com facebook.com/dollyscottoncandy Twitter: @sweetdreamdolly etsy.com/shop/dollyscottoncandy
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What are your most popular products or services? The Earthly Juices’ 4-Day Cleanse is our most popular program because it is a great way to detoxify the body, while getting emotional coaching while cleansing. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Start with seed capital, and pursue your passion for that thing that drives you, that makes you dream, that makes you fall in love, that you must share.
Ellie Lara and Jennifer Houst
48
Orange County
What do you like best about owning a business? Definitely, the unbound creativity in the kitchen is a blast; we love taking delicious, inviting pictures of our fresh foods and juices. Essentially, we are creating a lifestyle for clients.
Earthly Juices Tustin, California Sustainable. Sexy. Healthy. Earthly Juices is a yin-inspired company that focuses on awakening clients to an “Earthly Lifestyle.” They help clients detoxify the body with pure cold-pressed juices while providing counseling and a nutritional regiment composed of plant-based foods, raw smoothies and farm-fresh edibles. The Earthly Juices’ lifestyle is a down-to-earth breath of fresh air, found in Orange County!
Photos by Flare Productions
Specialties: Raw Juices and Smoothies, Nutrition 664 El Camino Real, Tustin, 714.669.1617 earthlyjuicecart.com facebook.com/earthlyeats, Twitter: @earthlyjuices
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Eden Condensed Los Angeles, California Beautiful. Colorful. Productive. Eden Condensed creates beautiful edible and ornamental gardens for small spaces like patios, balconies and flower beds. Eden Condensed incorporates seasonal edibles and ornamental plants into their designs and uses containers and accessories that fit the client’s style. Eden Condensed also has an online Etsy shop, which sells a line of hand handblown glass, succulent terrariums and mini-gardens using unique vintage containers.
Specialty: Small Space Garden Design, Unique Terrariums 818.207.6217, edencondensed.com etsy.com/shop/EdenCondensed facebook.com/edencondensed Twitter: @EdenCondensed
Photos by Leslie Rodriguez
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Los Angeles
What do you like best about owning a business? I love the freedom that has come from working for myself and my clients. I am more creative, more productive and a million times happier.
Angela Price
What motivates you on a daily basis? The wonders of nature that coexist with life in a big city; growing my own vegetables; my children; my cats and chickens. What is your motto or theme song? Let me create your very own Eden... condensed. How do you relax? Tending my own garden, of course! I also love to cook, read, travel and hang out with my kids and husband. 49
What are your most popular products or services? Our personal shopping packages. These custom experiences feature select clothing ready and waiting at every boutique or brought to your home. How do you spend your free time? I love to travel internationally, particularly in Europe, and am looking forward to exploring more of Asia and South America.
Kallah Maguire
50
Los Angeles
Who is your role model or mentor? John Galliano, my favorite clothing designer. He’s a wildly romantic, outrageous, imaginative genius! His sense of drama and fantasy has always inspired me.
The Emerald Scarab Los Angeles, California
Photos by Kim Grisco Photography
Personalized. Stylish. Fabulous. The Emerald Scarab provides a first-class personal shopping and styling experience for men and women. They know the best undiscovered, sought-after boutiques and clothing lines, ensuring that your experience is easy, fun and fabulous! For special events, the next season, a gift or a shopping experience, the Emerald Scarab is there to help you reinvent and upgrade your personal style.
Specialties: Personal Styling and Shopping Concierge Service 310.425.4018, emeraldscarab.com facebook.com/theemeraldscarab Twitter: @emeraldscarab
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Photos by Kristine Ko Creative Studio
Emiko Consulting Orange County, California Optimistic. Simplistic. Realistic. Emiko Consulting is a small-business consulting firm focusing on operations and growth strategy. Leah Arnold-Smeets, owner of Emiko Consulting, helps clients organize and streamline their businesses in order to reach the next phase of growth successfully. Leah wants clients to focus on doing what they love in business and leave the rest to Emiko Consulting. A healthy business is a prosperous business!
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Orange County
What do you like best about owning a business? I love being able to do what I love, and that is helping others live out their dreams and passions through successful business ventures. Who is your role model or mentor? I love Marie Forleo! She is vibrant, unique, hilarious and wildly successful at what she does. Her energy is infectious and gets me psyched about being a woman entrepreneur!
Leah Arnold-Smeets
What is your biggest fear? Fear is very short-lived in my life. I used to live my life in fear, but now I replace fear with action and create the momentum that I need to succeed.
Specialties: Operations, Organization and Growth Strategy 626.487.0431, emikoconsulting.com facebook.com/EmikoConsulting Twitter: @Mom_trepreneur
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Energetic Solutions Inc. Orange County, California Transformational. Unique. Soulful. Sheevaun Moran has coached thousands of entrepreneurs, CEOs, movers and shakers from stuck, out of alignment, short on time and off course to a place of extraordinary success. She will get you out of the struggle, fast and effectively, breaking through barriers. If you’re a mover and shaker, and want fast results to break through the barriers you’ve been struggling with, Sheevaun will get you there.
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Orange County
Photos by inGRACE photography, except portrait
Specialties: Business Coaching 714.374.1988, sheevaunmoran.com facebook.com/sheevaunom Twitter: @sheevaun linkedin.com/in/sheevaunmoran
Who is your role model or mentor? Some of my favorite role models are Eleanor Roosevelt and Steve Jobs. Also, my mom because when she decided she could do something difficult, she just did it. What is your motto or theme song? Master your energy and you’ll master your life; don’t master your energy, and your life is not yours. How do you relax? Meditation, gratitude, giving back.
Sheevaun Moran
What do you CRAVE? Transforming millions of lives and helping women achieve their souls’ purpose by teaching, sharing, training and inspiring others to know how their energy is their power. 53
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Treat it like a business. Get up and work every day; otherwise, it’s just a hobby. Create a noticeable brand that embodies who you are, and live that brand! What motivates you on a daily basis? Knowing I am helping women love themselves and their bodies. Teaching them to enjoy sex and have more fun in the bedroom with better orgasms. And knowing I can improve or save relationships.
Tiffany Alyse Yelverton
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Orange County
What do you CRAVE? For all women to love who they are and love their bodies, for our bodies tell a story of who we are. Loving ourselves first makes us sexy and confident.
Entice Me Orange County, California
Photos by inGRACE photography
Safe. Couture. Educational. Entice Me features “Sexucation,” intimate knowledge and ultra-fashionable, nontoxic sex toys, which are presented in workshops and parties. Entice Me’s goal is to improve relationships and boost self-confidence both in and out of the bedroom. Entice Me’s team of Sexinistas travel throughout Southern California and beyond to open up the conversation about sex in a comfortable setting, where customers can purchase their favorites discreetly.
Specialties: Luxury Adult Sensual Products and Education 714.386.9684, enticeme.co, Twitter: @enticemeparties facebook.com/EnticeMe.Co
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Photos by Marcia Prentice
Entrepreneurial Voice Downtown Los Angeles Creative. Authentic. Visionary. The Entrepreneurial Voice gives the entrepreneur the foundation, knowledge and confidence to master their entrepreneurial spirit and make their vision become a successful reality. Using an innovative approach and creative style, Jan inspires small business owners (established and newbies) through all stages of the development, launch, and growth of their company. Discover how easy it can be to find your Entrepreneurial Voice. Jan offers workshops, classes, seminars, coaching and consulting.
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Los Angeles
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Take action, one step at a time. Never give up. Don’t let anyone or anything stop you from pursuing your dream.
Jan McCarthy
What do you like best about owning a business? Creating something that inspires, changes lives and helps others be what they want to be. I love the freedom to design my life, owning my failures and successes. Who is your role model or mentor? My great-great-grandmother, the first woman doctor in Georgia, valedictorian of her medical graduating class. Her courage and determination in the face of the unknown inspire me to succeed.
Specialties: Business Development and Consultation 213.703.1938, entrepreneurialvoice.com facebook.com/EntrepreneurialVoice
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What are your most popular products or services? Our stunning gowns and accessory collections, which include our exquisite couture veils, breathtaking sashes, tiaras, hairpins, flowers, festoons, brooches, earrings and necklaces.
Erin Cole
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Follow your heart. Take conservative risks, and absolutely save for a rainy day. Don’t be afraid to ask questions... if you don’t know the answer, then ask someone who does! Who is your role model or mentor? My beautiful mom, who was virtuous, funny and talented. And my amazing grandmother, who inspired me daily. She loved to sew and made everything I wore. Thank God for the women in my life.
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Orange County
Erin Cole Couture Bridal Costa Mesa, California Creative. Glamorous. Modern. Erin Cole includes both Erin Cole Design and Erin Cole Couture Bridal, which opened in 2003. since starting the company with her longtime friend and business partner Karin Schroeder, Erin has been dressing brides worldwide for over 20 year. Having been raised with creativity in the air, she was truly inspired by her mother’s passion for art and her grandmother’s love for sewing. Her award-winning accessories can be found in over 175 stores worldwide.
Specialties: Couture Bridal Accessories and Dresses By appointment only: 298 E 17th St, Costa Mesa, 949.642.5552 Erin Cole Design: 949.642.8646, ErinCole.com facebook.com/ErinCole
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What are your most popular products or services? Our Luxe Intimate Collection. We capture three to five different looks, and the client receives 10 of her favorite images in one of our signature handcrafted presentation boxes.
Marisa Gallegos and Jennifer Hoffman
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? First and foremost: know your w’s. The whos, whats and whys that define the identity of your business are integral to building its foundation and creating a road map for its future. What do you like best about owning a business? Sending women back into the world with their heads held higher and a new understanding of who they are is an incredible sensation that we never tire of.
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Los Angeles
Esme+Eve Los Angeles, California
Photos by Esme+Eve
Timeless. Tasteful. Bold. Named for the classical icons of love and creation, the company is the brainchild of two best friends and professional photographers on a mission: to portray women at their most beautiful, confident, elegant and effortlessly sexy.
Specialty: Fine Art/Fashion Photography 310.561.6561, esmeandeve.com, Twitter: @esmeandeve
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“We crave sparking a change and inspiring women everywhere to live a life less ordinary. We believe that confident women can change the world, and we crave more of them in it. —Marisa Gallegos and Jennifer Hoffman, Esme+Eve
What are your most popular products or services? Botox, dermal fillers and cosmetic laser procedures. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t or shouldn’t do it. Follow your dream and stay away from negative influences. Go with your gut instinct.
Britta Wetteskind, RN
What do you like best about owning a business? It’s all up to me. Being my own boss with nobody telling me what to do and how to do it: that’s a liberating feeling. What motivates you? Becoming a better, kinder person. I listen to various motivational audios to help myself in achieving that. What place inspires you? The south of France. I love the lifestyle, joie de vivre culture, food, weather (azure blue skies) and ocean. It is a dreamy and magical place for me. What do you CRAVE? Getting my clients results that go way beyond their expectations.
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Orange County
European Wellness Cosmedical Newport Beach, California Fresh. Welcoming. Attentive. European Wellness Cosmedical is a boutique-style wellness spa that pays great attention to personalized and customized service. Services offered are Botox, dermal fillers, cosmetic laser procedures, VelaShape, medical weight loss, nutritional supplementation, professional skincare and biocommunication.
Photos by Flare Productions
Specialties: Medical Spa Treatments, Professional Skincare 359 San Miguel, Ste 301, Newport Beach, 888.706.1245 europeanrn.com
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Photos by Marcia Prentice
FATgirl Apps Glendale, California Trend-setting. Stylish. Tech-savvy. FATgirl Apps is a full-service software application development company, specializing in mobile app design and marketing. They develop affordable mobile apps for individuals, businesses,groups and organizations of all sizes. They help you maximize interaction with your fans, clients, customers and members. FATgirl Apps gets your brand in their pocket!
58
Los Angeles
What are your most popular products or services? Our new Idea Startapp™ program is our most popular service because we help non-technical people turn their app idea into a working prototype in just 3 hours. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? I have three tips: network! network! network!
Shawndrell Lynch
What do you like best about owning a business? The opportunity to help an underserved community of small businesses, especially woman-owned, to utilize technology to build their brands... at an affordable price!
Specialties: Mobile App Design and Marketing 401 N Brand Blvd, Glendale, 818.741.3099 fatgirlapps.com, facebook.com/fatgirlapps Twitter: @fatgirlapps
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What are your most popular products or services? Our breakfast is especially popular and our French toast and pancakes are well renowned. We get rave reviews on our coffee, our chorizo and eggs, and our breakfast burritos. And our patio dinners are romantic and intimate. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Determination + Action = Success. It’s really that simple.
Tippy Weeranarawat
60
Orange County
What do you like best about owning a business? Freedom. I love the feeling of being independent and making my own decisions.
The Filling Station Cafe Orange, California Retro. Cozy. Historical. The Filling Station Cafe is well loved and well known for their amazing homemadestyle breakfast, their delicious comfort food and their cozy friendly atmosphere. Their French toast and pancakes are an absolute favorite. Their beautiful outdoor garden patio is intimate and inviting. It’s a wonderful place to dine with friends and family or just take a relaxing break from your busy life. You’ll feel right at home here.
Photos by inGRACE photography, except portrait by Kristine Ko Creative Studio
Specialties: Famous Homemade-style, Pancakes and Cozy Ambiance 201 N Glassell St, Orange, 714.289.9714 fillingstationcafe.com
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Fiore Beauty Los Angeles, California Flirty. Fresh. Approachable. Fiore Beauty is a luxury on-site beauty and spa service providing boutique-quality hair, makeup, nail and massage services throughout Los Angeles and beyond. Their beauty experts are known among LA’s elite for their warm professionalism and superb talents; they know just how to tailor services to each client to make sure she feels her most pampered and pretty when she leaves.
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Los Angeles
Photos by Heather Kincaid
Specialties: On-Location Beauty and Spa Services 310.684.3123, fiorebeauty.com, Twitter: @fiorebeauty
What are your most popular products or services? Women love our makeup lessons so that they can have a pretty day every day, and then our party services such as winks and smiles, mini-manicures, lash bars, etc. are really popular. What do you like best about owning a business? Learning new things. Through owning Fiore, I’ve learned so many different skills that have nothing to do with beauty, and it’s so much fun (and sometimes frustrating), and it always continues.
Jaimi Brooks
What do you CRAVE? Red lipstick, finding flea market treasures with my ladies, chocolate chip cookies from Sweet Butter bakery, a nap, perfectly polished nails, paper treats from Urbanic, tulle and sequins.
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Do your research. Overplan. Have a business plan in place, but be flexible in your approach. Know your market. Master your craft. Surround yourself with likeminded entrepreneurs. Think ahead. What do you like best about owning a business? We are grateful to influence and stimulate lives. Growth is the only thing constant.
Jasmine Sharp and Aimee Goeppner
62
Los Angeles
What motivates you on a daily basis? Love for family and friends. We value enriching lives. The gratitude received from sharing a healthy lifestyle with others as well as feeling strong and healthy in our own bodies.
formu+La pilates + juice Manhattan Beach, California Gratifying. Nutrient-dense. Fulfilling. formu+La has created the catalyst for optimal health by combining Pilates and Juice. They have created a community-based lifestyle infusing Pilates and nutrient‑dense cold-pressed juices. formu+La is a perfect balance of focused training and whole food nutrition to achieve positive long-term transformation in how you feel, look and, ultimately, live. They live by: Feel Your Body, Fuel Your Body.
Specialties: Body-Shockin’ Pilates and Organic Pressed Juices 2403 N Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach, 310.546.2880 theformulalife.com, facebook.com/Formulapilatesjuice Twitter: @TheFormulaLife
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Found Vintage Rentals Orange County, California Rad. Creative. Original. Fifteen years ago, when Jeni bought her first vintage piece, she knew she was destined for a life of collecting. She is always on the hunt for just the right piece to transform a room or display. Even as a kid, she wanted her room “just so.� These days she is continually tracking down incredible pieces to create the perfect environment for events and celebrations. Since its inception in March of 2010, pieces from the Found collection have made their way into weddings, corporate events, catalog shoots, engagement sessions, television shows and bat mitzvahs. Found rents one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture and accessories for whatever your needs may be. The curated collection at Found Vintage Rentals includes everything from upholstered lounge furniture and distinctive farm tables to vintage accessories (think vintage books, antiques clocks, wooden crates and lots of glass bottles). Using resources and connections across the world, Found has an extensive collection that continues to grow.
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Orange County
Photos by Studio EMP
Specialties: Furniture Rentals, Design and Styling Services 714.888.5811, foundrentals.com, thefoundblog.com facebook.com/foundrentals, Twitter: @foundrentals Instagram: @foundrentals
What are your most popular products or services? Our clients love that every piece is unique. We offer a curated collection of furniture and accessories that make each event feel distinct and original.
Jeni Maus
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t listen to naysayers. If you are passionate about what you do, you will be great at it—don’t be afraid to start! What do you like best about owning a business? Having the creative freedom to do what I want. If I mess up, I’m the only one I have to answer to! What place inspires you? Flea markets. I love finding beauty in things that others are discarding. What do you CRAVE? Distressed furniture with character and personality.
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Have a great lawyer and business accountant by your side. What do you like best about owning a business? The ability to create and design an idea that can grow into something wonderful. What motivates you on a daily basis? My husband and son, who support me every waking hour.
Alicia Lum-Denchasy
64
Los Angeles
What do you CRAVE? Empowering women and couples to fully realize their true potential and accept and embrace their sexuality in order to be happier in every aspect of their lives.
Freddy and Eddy Los Angeles, California
Photos by Leslie Rodriguez
Intimate. Educational. Fun. Established in 1991, Freddy and Eddy is a couples and female sexuality business whose mission is to provide honest, up-to-date information to strengthen sexuality and, by extension, committed relationships. Timely articles, sexy product reviews and links to resources relevant to strengthening love and intimacy are just part of Freddy and Eddy’s core mission to spread happiness and joy to the world.
Specialty: Sexual Wellness for Women and Couples 310.999.4550, freddyandeddy.com, Twitter: @freddyandeddy
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Genuine Bookkeeping + More, Inc Los Angeles, California Reliable. Personable. Experienced. Genuine Bookkeeping + More, Inc (GBMI) is a relationship-driven firm providing outsourced back-office services to businesses and individuals. GBMI understands what businesses need and how personal affairs and goals may affect the ultimate goals for the business operation.
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Los Angeles
Photos by Corinne Cobabe
Specialties: Accounting, Bookkeeping, Back-office Support 310.904.3392, genuinebookkeepingandmore.com
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Research and understand what market your business is after. Take care not only of the front end of your business but also the back end. Learn to delegate. What do you like best about owning a business? It allows you to use your ability to see how far you can go. What is your motto or theme song? Do it right the first time.
Jennifer Oki
What place inspires you and why? My garden. It is down to the basics of thriving when I work with dirt and plants.
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be passionate about your cause, and believe in yourself. Never be afraid to seek help. This entire world can be your resource, so don’t waste it! What motivates you on a daily basis? Knowing that my clients or my employees had a great cup of coffee, a great healthy meal or have learned something they can do at home to be more environmentally conscious.
Rita C. Ho-Bezzola
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Orange County
What is your motto or theme song? Things happen for a reason. Do your best, and let the rest go with the flow. Learn, grow and know that some things are blessings in disguise. Never give up!
Green Bliss Cafe Downtown Fullerton Healthy. Sustainable. Community-focused. Green Bliss is all about living life to the fullest while protecting Mother Earth. From local, organically and sustainably sourced produce to direct-trade coffee, Green Bliss goes out of its way to provide the highest quality of food while minimizing its carbon footprint. Green Bliss also hosts workshops and community gatherings on a regular basis.
Photos by Kristine Ko Creative Studio
Specialties: Artisan Coffee, Organic Vegetarian Food 305 N Harbor Blvd, Ste 103, Fullerton 714.773.0018 Green-bliss.com facebook.com/GreenBlissCafe Twitter: @Greenblisscafe
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Grow Natural Downtown Fullerton Organic. Earth-friendly. Non-toxic. Grow Natural is an organic mothering and baby boutique specializing in earth-friendly and organic items for your whole family. Grow Natural has carefully chosen all of their items, believing it is important to provide you with the best options. They offer products, resources and support for helping you make greener choices through pregnancy, childbirth and into early parenting. Grow Natural believes small steps make big effects.
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Orange County
Photos by Kristine Ko Creative Studio
Specialty: Safe, Non-toxic Products 138 E Amerige Ave, Fullerton, 714.271.5043 grownaturalonline.com, facebook.com/grownatural Twitter: @grownaturalbaby
Jennifer Iturburo
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Do as much research as possible. Prepare yourself. Stay focused. Do not allow anyone to hold you back from accomplishing your dreams. Believe in yourself and trust in your vision. What motivates you on a daily basis? My family motivates me to continue learning and educating myself. They trust in me to keep them safe and depend on me to make healthy decisions to help them grow. How do you relax? I relax best with my family, lots of pillows and blankets, organic coffee and a really good book.
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Make yourself, your body and your wellness a priority. Having a business is no joke, and it takes focus to keep your eye on the prize and stay the course. What do you like best about owning a business? I get to express myself creatively through my art and my love for wellness. That I get to share my work and have others see it after all these years.
Jan Palmer
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Orange County
What is your motto or theme song? Stop focusing on what you don’t want to happen and start focusing on what you do want to happen. Positive thinking is at the forefront of every great success story.
Harmony HB Arts and Wellness Center Huntington Beach, California Nurturing. Serene. Eclectic. Harmony HB is as beautiful as it is eclectic. They offer a variety of classes as well as an extraordinary mix of wellness and aesthetics. With an emphasis on mind, body and soul, their passion is helping their clients bring harmony and balance back into their lives. The blend of art and wellness encompasses you the moment you walk in the door. It’s quite lovely.
Photos by inGRACE photography
Specialties: Yoga, Barre, Pilates, Dance, Massage, Meditation, Gifts, Jewelry 16907 Algonquin St, Huntington Beach, 714.840.2446 harmony-hb.com, Twitter: @HBHarmony
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What are your most popular products or services? Therapeutic massage and Body Fusion workout sessions are both uniquely crafted for each person’s needs. They reinforce the importance of taking care of yourself and your body in different ways.
Lyndsey and Kelly Gamble
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Listen to your intuition and trust yourself. Choose what you love, so your business can grow from joy and be an expression of you. Always choose what is simple. What do you CRAVE? Fresh air, a great workout, delicious coffee, a cozy blanket, fresh flowers, laughter, calm, happiness and simplicity.
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Orange County
Harmony Wellness Center Costa Mesa, California
Photos by Christine Bentley Photography
Inviting. Peaceful. Restoring. Harmony Wellness is a unique blend of family and friends working together to provide outstanding massage therapy, energetic fitness/yoga classes, healing physical therapy and rejuvenating skincare treatments. The inviting atmosphere within Harmony makes you feel so at home, you may not want to leave. Their attention to detail and ability to care for every individual’s needs are what keep you coming back.
Specialties: Massage, Fitness Classes, Physical Therapy, Skincare By appointment only: 1530 Baker St, Ste A, Costa Mesa, 714.444.4006 harmonywellness.org, facebook.com/HarmonyWellnessCenterCM Twitter: @harmonywellness
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Photo by Christine Bentley Photography
“There are no limits. We are always free to evolve in business and in life. We are truly blessed to be able to work with amazing people every day.” —Kelly and Lyndsey Gamble, Harmony Wellness Center
Harper’s Corona del Mar, California Hip. Stylish. Affordable. Harper’s, owned by Erica D. Thomas, is named after her adorable little girl Harper Dee. This hipster boutique is created for the modern stylista: budget conscious, style savvy and delighted to mix cheap and chic to create a look for the hip OC woman. Erica perfectly fused fashion and design at Harper’s. A go‑to boutique for the fashionista looking for something unique and special.
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Orange County
Photos by Cheri Bradshaw Photography
Specialty: Contemporary and Budget-Conscious Style 2610 East Coast Highway, Corona del Mar, 949.644.7467 shopharpers.com, facebook.com/shopharperscdm pinterest.com/harperscdm, Instagram: @harperscdm
Erica D. Thomas
What are your most popular products or services? The affordable-priced apparel mixed with high-end pieces, the unique gifts, fabulous shoes and must-have accessories. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Work in the trade and get experience before you open your own business. Make sure that you learn the in’s and out’s of the business before starting one. What place inspires you? New York City. I love all of the amazing window displays, and the energy in the city is contagious! I love the fast-paced life and the people who live there.
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Hearts and Laserbeams Orange County, California Affordable. Friendly. Talented. Hearts and Laserbeams is a full-service graphic design studio run by seasoned art professional Steph Calvert. A friendly and approachable customer-service-oriented attitude accompanies all projects, and it keeps clients coming back for more! Services include illustration, web design, branding and logo design. The work of Hearts and Laserbeams has been seen worldwide on apparel, in print and online.
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Orange County
Photos by Natalie Moser Photography
Specialties: Graphic Design, Illustration, Web Design 714.655.5272, heartsandlaserbeams.com facebook.com/heartsandlaserbeams, Twitter: @hrtsnlaserbeams
What are your most popular products or services? Clients love our web design services! At the close of a project, we give them the tools to tackle simple updates on their own, saving their business money. What do you like best about owning a business? I love being able to use my design skills to help such a wide variety of clients grow their businesses. You’d be surprised what a well-designed website can do!
Steph Calvert
What place inspires you and why? Savannah, Georgia, will always hold a very special place in my heart—the city is beautiful, the trees are plentiful, the people are friendly. It feels like coming home.
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House of Honey South Pasadena, California Dramatic. Whimsical. Eclectic. House of Honey is a home decor shop and interior design studio featuring the unique voice of owner Tamara Kaye-Honey. Her shop carries an eclectic mix of reinvented furnishings and accessories, including art, lighting, jewelry, handbags and decorative objects as well as wallpaper and fabric. House of Honey offers design services ranging from recovering a special chair to completely renovating residential to commercial spaces.
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Los Angeles
Photos by Kim Grisco Photography
Specialties: Home Decor and Interior Design 1518 Mission St, South Pasadena 626.441.2454, houseofhoney.la
What are your most popular products or services? I call my style “The New Vintage.� By mixing old and new with whimsical and unusual pieces, patterns, shapes and colors, I create playful yet timeless spaces. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be true to yourself. If you are passionate about what you do, chances are you will be good at it!
Tamara Kaye-Honey
What do you like best about owning a business? Being my own boss. What motivates you on a daily basis? Creating amazing spaces with pieces that are personal and have a soul.
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What are your most popular products or services? We represent clients with children that have limited means by offering payment plans. We want them to grow and evolve during a difficult time in their life.
Evie P. Jeang
70
Los Angeles
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Immediately establish long term goals, and strive to understand the finances yourself in order to better run your company. Also, support each other and connect, connect, connect! What place inspires you and why? My home... the one place where I feel secure and comfortable. I designed my office to exude the same feeling: to be a safe place for clients.
Ideal Legal Group San Gabriel Valley, Alhambra
Photos by Marcia Prentice
Professional. Personable. Persistent. Ideal Legal Group concentrates on families with children and their long, difficult road to resolving divorce based issues. With the economic downturn wreaking such havoc on everyone’s finances, the firm helps by offering various payment plans which are individually structured for each family. At the same time, they assist and advocate for children caught in the middle of a divorce, helping them grow and evolve during a difficult time in their life.
Specialty: Family and Special Education Law 2880 W Valley Blvd, Alhambra, 626.569.1882 ideallegalgroup.com
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What are your most popular products or services? Our clients love our personalized experience and custom-designed wall art collages, museum canvas gallery wraps, whimsical and unique frames, and customized books and albums. What do you like best about owning a business? Creative freedom and the ability to make my own schedule.
Kristin Palkoner
What is your motto or theme song? “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” —Gandhi How do you relax? Snuggles and foot rubs on the couch with my hubby.
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Orange County
inGRACE photography Orange County, California
Photos by inGRACE photography
Innovative. Inspired. Soulful. inGRACE photography is an award-winning boutique photography studio specializing in innovative storytelling for life’s important moments. The studio offers a complete experience from the consultation to the in-house ordering session, which features a custom music slideshow of the client’s session images. inGRACE photography’s goal is to create unique and inspired images that reflect the inner beauty and soul of each of their clients.
Specialty: Innovative Storytelling 949.481.4114 ingracephotography.com Twitter: @ingracephoto facebook.com/inGRACEphotography
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Photo by inGRACE photography
“Be patient and compassionate with yourself. Take it one moment at a time; pause and remember to breathe. Stay inspired. Do what you love!” —Kristin Palkoner, inGRACE photography
Jacqueline’s Skin Care Spa & Boutique Newport Beach, California Luxurious. Tranquil. Indulgent. Jacqueline’s offers extraordinary treatments with exceptional service. Treatments are refined to give you not only a pampered feeling but results. Jacqueline has studied oriental medicine, giving her an understanding of what is really going on with your skin. Beautiful skin reflects total body health. The boutique offers hand-picked apparel, yoga gear, jewelry, makeup, the finest skincare and pampering gifts.
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Orange County
Left-page photo and right-page upper-left photo by inGRACE photography, portrait by Crush
Specialties: Skincare and Eyelash Extensions 120 Tustin Ave #D, Newport Beach, 949.500.1046 jacquelinesadvancedskincare.com facebook.com/jacqueline.eisenman
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Learn from everything. We are capable of so much, so shoot past the stars. Have no regrets, and go for it! Your gut feeling is telling you the truth. What do you like best about owning a business? To give my clients the best, which is what they deserve, I had to own my own place. To take a business to the max, you need to own it.
Jacqueline Eisenman-Crook
What place inspires you and why? The Orient and every place tropical are what inspire me. These places inspire me to give more, be more humble, be more natural and learn more about holistic medicine. 83
What are your most popular products or services? A personal plan designed to help each client reach the financial goals and objectives that are most important to her. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Serve others, have faith in yourself, stay positive and surround yourself with people who encourage and motivate you.
Julie Newcomb, CFP
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Orange County
What do you like best about owning a business? Having the freedom and flexibility to work in the way that best serves my clients and their needs while having control of my schedule and being there for my family.
Julie Newcomb Financial Orange County, California
Photos by inGRACE photography, except lower‑left photo by Lesley Pedraza Photography
Personal. Empowering. Practical. Julie Newcomb is a certified financial planner who has been helping women in Orange County become financially confident for over 20 years. She feels privileged to work with women whom she respects and who trust her with this important area of their lives. She strives to help her clients make smart financial decisions and gain financial security for themselves and their families.
Specialties: Retirement and Financial Planning for Women 877.606.1484, julienewcomb.com, Twitter: @JulieANewcomb facebook.com/JulieNewcombFinancial
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What are your most popular products or services? We specialize in unique and nontraditional wedding rings and custom design. I especially love collaborating with clients to revamp or design new, personalized and fabulous jewelry pieces.
Sofia Kaman
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Believe wholeheartedly in yourself and your talents. Many things are out of your hands, but your attitude is your own and will frame your life! What do you like best about owning a business? Every day is a creative endeavor, and there is never a dull moment. And I can take my dog to work!
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Los Angeles
Kamofie & Company Venice, California Understated. Enchanting. Soulful. A light and airy space where a garden of sparkling delights meets a bohemian, beachy state of mind, the Kamofie & Company store is home to a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind, handcrafted jewels. Featuring the Kamofie fine jewelry line as well as an assortment of designer collections, vintage and antique jewelry, and other delectable gifts and perfumes.
Photos by Kate Romero
Specialties: Unique Wedding Rings and Custom Jewelry Design 1350 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Ste 102, Venice 310.310.3998, kamofie.com
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Kara Kassuba Los Angeles, California Resourceful. Creative. Confidential. Kara Kassuba offers consulting in beauty, lingerie, fashion and lifestyle industries. Her network of partners in cities worldwide enables clients to have immediate global reach from one point of contact. Services include but are not limited to ideation, concept, competitive intelligence, guided inspiration/shopping trips, city guides, custom reporting on what’s trending in beauty, fashion, lifestyle, products, food, trade shows, street style and more.
Specialty: Consulting 323.983.3429, karakassuba@gmail.com linkedin.com/in/karakassuba
Photos by Marcia Prentice
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Los Angeles
What are your most popular products or services? Ideation, concept, custom reporting from cities worldwide, guided inspiration/shopping trips. What do you like best about owning a business? The interesting and inspiring people who I meet.
Kara Kassuba
What motivates you on a daily basis? Learning and seeing new things. Fortunately, my work includes travel and keeping up to the minute on what is going on. I am constantly learning, problem solving, discovering and creating.
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Entrepreneurship is living a few years of your life like most people won’t so that you can live the rest of your life like most people can’t! What motivates you on a daily basis? To have a business with your best friend is the best work environment, and we inspire and encourage each other to keep going!
Juli and Ozma
What inspires you and why? Sparklers, confetti and champagne, because this is how we celebrate success! What do you CRAVE? In the summer we crave BBQs and bikinis; in the fall we crave lattes and love; in the winter we crave gingerbread and giving; and in the spring we crave fruit and fun!
76
Los Angeles
Kookn’ Kap Los Angeles, California
Photos by Marcia Prentice
Kreative. Kozy. Kute. Two sassy girls from LA have created a revolutionary lifestyle-convenience product for the everyday cook! The Kookn’ Kap redefines the traditional chef hat and keeps the smell of food out of your hair as well as the hair out of your food! It comes in two stylish colors and keeps the bounce in your blowout; every hostess needs one!
Specialties: Cooking and Culinary 978.726.7631, Kooknkap.com, Twitter: @KooknKap
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be persistent: don’t give up no matter how challenging or difficult the situation may be. Just persevere, be resilient and keep growing. What do you like best about owning a business? I get to be a part of my clients’ lives during the wedding planning process, which develops into a lifetime friendship.
Kristine Ko
What motivates you on a daily basis? Getting up and going to the job I love to do! What is your motto or theme song? Don’t be afraid of change or the unknown.
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Orange County
Kristine Ko Creative Studio Orange County, California
Photos by Kristine Ko Creative Studio
Stylish. Creative. Edgy. Kristine is a senior graphic designer who has a passion for photography and decided to make the leap into the wedding photography industry. Within a short time period, Kristine has built a reputation of providing her clients with everlasting and beautiful memories.
Specialties: Wedding Photography, Graphic Design 626.233.6100, kkcreativestudioblog.com facebook.com/KristineKoCreativeStudio
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Photos by inGRACE photography, except portrait
Lash Dollz Corona del Mar, California Glamorous. Sophisticated. Distinctive. The Lash Dollz philosophy and reputation is to provide the most comfortable, longlasting and undetectable lashes around. Amazing-looking lashes that maintain the integrity of the natural lash. The significant difference in our lash technique, product and customer service leaves our customers wondering how they ever lived without them.
88
Orange County
What are your most popular products or services? Lash Love: our signature fill for that enhancement that every woman loves. Lash Attack: our most popular full set of dynamic and breathtaking lashes. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Embrace the passion for what you love to do and hold on tight! Ask yourself the tough questions, and don’t be afraid to face your answers.
Heather Stookey
What is your motto or theme song? “Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius... I’m very definitely a woman, and I enjoy it.” —Marilyn Monroe
Specialty: Eyelash Extensions 3032 East Coast Hwy, Corona del Mar 949.759.0272, lashdlz.com
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What are your most popular products or services? Calligraphy on envelopes, place cards and escort cards comprise the highest volume of orders, but our custom maps have become increasingly popular with even the most discerning of brides. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Get organized! No matter what your product, be sure you can handle the business and financial aspects of running a company.
Laura Hooper
78
Los Angeles
What do you like best about owning a business? I am able to make a living doing what I love, and that’s being an artist. I also enjoy the freedom and flexibility of working for myself.
Laura Hooper Calligraphy South Bay, Hermosa Beach Classic. Custom. Elegant. Laura Hooper Calligraphy specializes in creating and custom-designing maps, invitations and envelopes with the traditional feel of calligraphy and a modern twist. Laura Hooper Calligraphy adds a personal and elegant touch to all your life events by incorporating hand-lettering and design throughout your entire wedding or other event experience from save-the-dates to invitation suites and envelopes, to your day-of printed materials.
Specialties: Hand-done Calligraphy and Design By appointment only: 200 Pier Ave, Ste 224, Hermosa Beach 310.798.6566, lhcalligraphy.com facebook.com/LHCalligraphy Twitter: @lhcalligraphy
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What are your most popular products or services? Personalized handmade jewelry, name/ initial necklaces, rings and bracelets. Personal shopping assistance. Perfectly fitted denim, flowy tops and maxi dresses. Brands that give back like Toms, 31 Bits and iSanctuary. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Make sure that your business is what you are most passionate about in life; put into it everything you have to give and always stay positive.
Lauren Miller
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Orange County
What place inspires you and why? New York City. It is so full of life, energy, art and fashion. I am always inspired in so many ways when I am in that city.
laurenly Old Towne Orange and Long Beach
Photos by SammyBphotography
Feminine. Friendly. Fabulous. laurenly, opened in June 2010, carries fashionable pieces that feature a mix of well-known labels with unique and original boutique lines. The stylish boutique houses everything from sundresses to evening dresses, skirts, shorts, jeans, tops, shoes, handbags, wallets, hats and tons of jewelry! The store also highlights one-of-a-kind, handmade jewelry pieces by local designers. The cutting-edge looks found here make it a one-stop shopping destination.
Specialties: Personalized Shopping, Cutting-Edge Looks 142 N Glassell St, Orange, 714.538.SHOP (7467) 4900 E 2nd St, Long Beach, 562.343.SHOP (7467) laurenly.net, facebook.com/laurenlyboutique Twitter: @_laurenly_
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Photo by SammyBphotography
“I love the sense of accomplishment I feel every time I walk into work. I made this place, I created this space myself, I run it and people like it.” —Lauren Miller, laurenly
What do you like best about owning a business? I love having the freedom to be creative, to push the envelope and to play with a variety of artistic mediums as I work continuously to promote ephemeral aesthetics. What motivates you on a daily basis? The ongoing quest to find beauty in the smallest, simplest things, to make the right combinations and to produce works of art that bring joy to the lives of others.
Lauryl Lane
80
Los Angeles
How do you relax? Joining cherished friends in the sunshine with a good bottle of wine, lots of laughter and sparkling conversation!
Lauryl Lane Los Angeles, California Inspired. Distinctive. Avant-garde. Lauryl Lane brings a theatrical and imaginative flair to lifestyle, editorial, prop, wedding and event styling, always with a botanical twist and an emphasis on eco-consciousness. Lauryl’s versatile yet unmistakable floral and decor designs have become highly soughtafter among hip brides and grooms, distinguished socialites and A-list celebrities. Over the past decade, Lauryl has designed hundreds of real weddings and events.
Clockwise from upper left: photos by Jen Huang, Braedon Photography, BrittRene Photo and Jasmine Star
Specialty: Wedding and Event Styling 323.698.7711, lauryllane.com facebook.com/lauryllane, Twitter: @lauryllane
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Leanna Lin’s Wonderland Eagle Rock, Los Angeles Retro. Creative. Fun. Leanna Lin’s Wonderland is a playful jewelry studio/shop/art gallery inspired by modern and retro designs, where you can use your imagination to create your own beaded jewelry! People of all ages enjoy visiting this little gem in Eagle Rock. Also check out the art opening events happening here!
82
Los Angeles
Photos by Leslie Rodriguez
Specialties: Handmade Art, Gifts, Jewelry, Vintage 5024 Eagle Rock Blvd, Los Angeles, 323.550.1332 LeannaLinsWonderland.com facebook.com/LeannaLin, Twitter: @LeannaLin
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Good karma. Be nice to everyone. You never know when you’ll run into them again. What do you like best about owning a business? All my hard work goes back into my own business. What is your motto or theme song? “Life is short. Eat dessert first!” —Jacques Torres
Leanna Lin Fong
What place inspires you and why? I love to travel to metropolitan cities and soak in the culture. Tokyo is pretty cool overall with the architecture, art, fashion, pop culture and food! 83
What are your most popular products or services? Our one and three month Be Healthy and Hot program, where we discover the foods best for you, how to incorporate healthy habits and undo subconscious beliefs about your relationship with food. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Invest in a mentor who has the outcome you want, realize that how you do one thing is how you do everything and that your struggles are your greatest gifts!
Ashley Ross
94
Orange County
What is your motto or theme song? The quality of your life is based upon the decisions that you make!
Legaci Wellness Eastside Costa Mesa Transformational. Empowering. Practical. Legaci Wellness offers a safe environment where clients can be honest about their relationship with food. Ashley is a board certified health coach who specializes in working with women who struggle to lose weight or are at risk for disease. By creating personalized programs based on your unique body and lifestyle, you are guaranteed to fit into your skinny jeans after working with Legaci Wellness!
Photos by JME Project Photography
Specialties: Personal and Group Programs for Women By appointment only: 188 E 17th St, Ste 201, Costa Mesa 949.646.9022, legaciwellness.com facebook.com/LegaciWellness, Twitter: @legaciwellness
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Photos by Leslie Rodriguez
Letters from LA Eagle Rock, Los Angeles Current. Distinct. Ambrosial. Letters from LA features local designers alongside distinctive international brands that are hard to find. Lots of delicately edgy jewelry, easy blouses that pair well with denim and that perfect basic piece to make your wardrobe more wearable. Popular items include Mother denim, Curator dresses, Polder beaded necklaces, Voce Keen crystal rings and Sydney Hale candles.
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Los Angeles
What do you like best about owning a business? Watching hard work and ideas come to fruition... and taking mid‑afternoon beach breaks! What motivates you on a daily basis? Introducing my customers to a line or a style that they love, is a perfect fit and becomes something that gets high rotation in their wardrobe. What is your motto or theme song? Manifest it.
Sasha Martinus
What place inspires you and why? Los Angeles. I love with the laid back lifestyle while still having access to the most inspiring and talented designers, artists and musicians. What more could you ask for?
Specialties: Women’s Clothing, Jewelry and Handbags 5022 Eagle Rock Blvd, Los Angeles, 323.340.1546 shoplettersfromla.com
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“Big and wild dreams are the entrepreneur’s best friend.” —Sasha Martinus, Letters from LA
Photo by Leslie Rodriguez
What are your most popular products or services? Custom furniture and bedding for nurseries and kids’ rooms. Since we have so many custom companies with whom we work, the sky is the limit for design! What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Go slow and be conservative. Learn from the mistakes you make. What do you like best about owning a business? The greatest perk is being able to bring my bulldog to work with me every day. She makes everyone’s day!
Shannon Baldwin
84
Los Angeles
What motivates you on a daily basis? Providing great service to my clients and having them refer me for future jobs.
The Little Red Barn Calabasas, California
Photos by Shani Barel Photography
Inspired. Efficient. Clever. The Little Red Barn is a full-service design boutique specializing in custom nurseries, kids’ rooms and playrooms offering complimentary in-home design appointments for all design styles. From custom furniture to bedding, paint colors and wall coverings, The Little Red Barn can handle all of your decorating needs at this one-stop shop.
Specialties: Custom Design for Nurseries and Kids’ Rooms 23504 Calabasas Rd, Calabasas, 818.591.2007 littleredbarnla.com, Twitter: @littleredbarnla
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What are your most popular products or services? Our most popular product is the original no-slip and headache-free headband: a functional yet fashionable headband that can be worn for active or daily wear. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Learn from your mistakes, experiences and successes. Follow your dreams and never give up.
Melanie Tell
What is your motto or theme song? “One Love� by Bob Marley is my theme song; hence, the name of my business. His inspirational, positive message will live forever. Peace, love and unity! How do you relax? I love to run on the beach.
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Orange County
Living Onelove Orange County, California Fashionable. Functional. Fit. Living Onelove was created after unsuccessfully searching for a fashionable yet fun non-slip, headache free headband that could be worn confidently while running the extra mile or out on the town. Living Onelove is best known for its exclusive line of headbands and wrist pockets. You can now find these comfortable, stylish headbands online and in stores across Orange County.
Portrait by Cheri Bradshaw Photography
Specialties: Fashionable, Functional Headbands and Wrist Pockets 949.439.1903, livingonelove.com facebook.com/livingoneloveheadbands Twitter: @1lovecollection
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Lunchbox Video Productions Los Angeles, California Compelling. Engaging. Everlasting. Lunchbox Video Productions effectively showcases businesses in a broadcast style with video-marketing that mixes compelling interviews between owners and their clients, with voice-overs and flattering, pristine video. Every business has a story of trial and triumph, survival and success, tireless effort and passion. That is the story LVP wants to tell. That is the story that will make your phone ring.
86
Los Angeles
Photos by Jolie Kinga
Specialties: Creative Video-marketing Profiles 480.241.8467, lunchboxvideo.com
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Believe in yourself and the value of what you are selling. What do you like best about owning a business? There are no limits. What motivates you on a daily basis? I am motivated by the ability to make a vision tangible. I am motivated by the impact my service will have on the growth and success of my clients.
Elizabeth Herrgott
How do you relax? Practicing the Bar Method, watching “Breaking Bad� and playing with bulldogs (English bulldogs, of course, especially one named Lunchbox).
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LVL Weddings & Events Orange County, California Approachable. Fresh. Detailed. The LVL Weddings & Events team brings a fresh and personable approach to every wedding. They strive to create an approachable atmosphere and to give each of their clients a personal experience, because every bride deserves to fully enjoy her special day.
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Orange County
Photos by Christine Bentley Photography
Specialties: Wedding and Event Planning 714.718.3122, lvlevents.com, Twitter: @lvlweddings
What are your most popular products or services? Our Partial Planning Package because it allows the couple to play a big part in their wedding planning without all the stress. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Check your ego at the door. In my experience, being friendly always comes full circle.
Lindsay Val Longacre
Who is your role model or mentor? My mom. She is the reason I took the risk to become an entrepreneur. What motivates you? Making real connections with people and making them happy.
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Clockwise from left: photos by The Image Focus, Beautiful Day Photography, Shani Barel Photography and Jen O’Sullivan Photography
Make-Up Therapy Los Angeles, California Luxurious. Customized. Professional. Make-Up Therapy is a personalized luxury company known for creating flawless looks ranging from fresh, natural and modern to all-out glamorous. Their goal is to enhance your beauty, accentuating the fabulous you! Services include: high-end and celebrity weddings, red carpet, special events, TV appearances, make-up lessons and photo shoots. They use product lines such as: Bobbi Brown, Shu Uemura, Laura Mercier, Nars and Giorgio Armani.
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Los Angeles
What do you like best about owning a business? Collaborating with talented people, creating my own Beauty Team, nurturing relationships with our clients and having the ability to create balance in my life. Who is your role model or mentor? My father. He taught me to follow my dreams, to believe in myself and to take chances as well as the importance of creating strong, genuine relationships both personally and professionally.
Tara Dowburd-Luftman
What motivates you on a daily basis? The smile on a client’s face once she looks in the mirror, knowing how beautiful she feels, in turn helping her feel her most confident. Receiving heartfelt thank-you letters.
Specialties: On-location Makeup Application and Hairstyling 310.709.6585 makeuptherapy.com facebook.com/makeuptherapy Twitter: @MakeUpTherapy
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What are your most popular products or services? Eyelash extensions are always the most popular service. The new LAshX Pro/Line, Italian pigmented liquid eyeliner that safely makes your lashes thicker, longer and stronger, is our best seller internationally.
Mandy Jacobellis
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Los Angeles
What do you like best about owning a business? Having the power to make change. With a business I have the power to change an industry and the power to raise philanthropy that I never could have as an individual. Who is your role model or mentor? Who isn’t? So many of my clients are successful in business, they have been my support team and cheerleaders!
Makeup Mandy LAshX by Makeup Mandy West Hollywood, California
Photos by Kim Grisco Photography
Lively. Loving. Lovely. Makeup Mandy is the authority on Hollywood glamour and is known for getting celebrity clients red-carpet ready; her business is the one-stop shop for hair, makeup, lashes and tanning. Clients come from far away for Mandy’s technique and luxury LAshX brand. This Melrose beauty has changed the game in eyelash extensions and aftercare, being the first in the industry to push for safe products that improve natural lash health.
Specialties: Hair, Makeup, Lashes, Tanning Makeup Mandy: 8441 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood 310.858.1970, makeupmandy.com facebook.com/makeupmandy, Twitter: @Makeupmandy LAshX by Makeup Mandy: 310.855.3305 LAshXLA.com, Twitter: @Lashxbymm
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Marcia Prentice Photography Los Angeles, California Artistic. Fashionable. Emotional. Marcia Prentice Photography began out of necessity while curating house tours for the very popular design blog, Apartment Therapy. Now, a few years and several interior and lifestyle photo shoots later, the business has grown into a true passion. Marcia’s style of photography captures the beauty of natural lighting, the energy of the home and the playfulness of her subjects.
92
Los Angeles
Photos by Marcia Prentice
Specialties: Interior, Lifestyle and Portrait Photography marciaprentice.com, Twitter: @marciaprentice facebook.com/marcia.m.prentice
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Never listen to all the reasons not to take the plunge, believe in yourself and look for the yes in all situations. What do you like best about owning a business? Spending my days meeting new people and interacting with them in their homes... no desk job here!
Marcia Prentice
What do you CRAVE? At the moment, these silly little dried fruit snacks I often get from Erewhon. Other than food, I crave designer high-heel pumps, which I wear during every photo shoot!
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Photos by inGRACE photography
Mars Hair Studio Costa Mesa, California Creative. Inspiring. Fashion-forward. Mars Hair Studio is a boutique hair salon that prides itself in helping you keep your hair beautiful, healthy and stylish. Each stylist specializes in her craft and works with clients to individualize their look, based on each personality and lifestyle. Services include cutting, styling, coloring, hair extensions and various hair treatments.
100
Orange County
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Talk to business owners in your industry, find a trusted accountant, build your social media, collaborate with bloggers and join solid entrepreneurial networking groups like CRAVE and SMARTY OC. What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom of creativity to build your own life. You get what you put into it. I have also enjoyed mentoring other women and seeing where life takes them.
Martis Duarte
Who is your role model or mentor? Sebastian International’s Geri Cusenza. She was the first woman I met in this male-dominated industry who was playing with the big boys. She showed us all what was possible.
Specialties: Color, Cut, Styling and Extensions 107 E 18th St, Costa Mesa, 949.631.6890 MarsHairStudio.com, Twitter: @MarsHairStudio facebook.com/MarsHairStudio linkedin.com/in/martisduarte
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t be too hard on yourself. A business can evolve and be refined. Set realistic goals to lead you and then take action to make things happen and achieve them. What do you like best about owning a business? Having greater control of the creative side, a flexible schedule of work/life to keep family as a top priority and the satisfaction of making clients shine by meeting their needs.
Lani Merlina
102
Orange County
Who is your role model or mentor? My mom. She introduced me to art, design and printing and encouraged me to follow my passion. She made me feel like I could do anything.
MERLINA design Orange County, California
Photos by inGRACE photography, shot at Czar Press
Fresh. Innovative. Expressive. Merlina Design specializes in brand identity, wedding stationery and letterpress paper goods. They utilize many forms of traditional and new media to bring their clients’ dreams to life. The intent of Merlina Design is to capture and convey the essence, story or individuality of their clients’ projects.
Specialties: Branding, Letterpress, Invitations, Stationery 562.500.4214, merlinadesign.com Twitter: @lanimerlina, facebook.com/MerlinaDesign
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Give yourself permission to both follow your gut and get the support you need for those things that fall outside your genius zone. Your business will grow that much quicker. What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom to go any direction I want! In 10 years of owning my own business, I’ve moved cities (and countries) six times. Reinvention and change are key for me. What is your motto or theme song? Live on the skinny branch! Jump... the net will appear.
Michelle Ghilotti Mandel
104
Orange County
Michelle Ghilotti Int’l Los Angeles, California Passionate. Authentic. High-energy. Michelle Ghilotti Int’l is a branding, coaching and design company where female entrepreneurs and business owners from around the world unlock their haute, heartful and magnetic brand. Having followed her passion of travel the last 10 years and grown the business while living in San Francisco, LA, Amsterdam, Portland and Guadalajara, Mexico, Michelle Ghilotti Int’l also inspires and gives women the tools to make happiness their business!
Photos by Amy McMullen Photography
Specialties: Branding, Business Coaching, Design 503.984.5699, michelleghilotti.com facebook.com/michelleghilotti Twitter: @michghilotti Walking Momtra™ walkingmomtra.com Twitter: @walkingmomtra
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Spend time thinking about your brand and brand message. What is it especially that you want your logo and marketing collateral to say about you and your business? What is your biggest fear? Not trying something that I’m kicking around in my mind. I’d rather fail than to have never tried.
Michelle Kajan
What motivates you? My daughter. I want her to be happy and have pride, to enjoy her life and career someday as much as I do my own! What do you CRAVE? A balanced, organic life full of love, laughter, fun experiences and no regret.
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Los Angeles
Michelle Kajan Los Angeles, California
Photos by Danette Mitchell
Creative. Smart. Fabulous. Swag refers to articles of merchandise that are used in marketing and communication programs. These items are usually imprinted with a company’s logo or slogan and given away as a part of guerilla marketing campaigns. Stop wasting your marketing dollars on unstimulating and dull promotional products. Captivate your target audience, and let Michelle Kajan create a styled private label and promotional branding experience for you.
Specialties: Branded Private Label Promotional Product Concepts 310.871.4220 michellekajan.com
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Right page: photos by Marcia Prentice
Mindfulnest Santa Monica and Burbank, California Enchanting. Joyful. Conscious. Mindfulnest is truly a haven and shoppers’ heaven of locally made art, sculpture, jewelry, gifts and accessories. Step inside, and you are immediately surrounded by the inspired work of almost 100 North American artists and artisans. The store, with its earthy colors, openbeam ceilings and frosted skylights, plus the staff, will make you feel calm and welcome.
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Los Angeles
What do you like best about owning a business? Being able to provide a haven for artists to support themselves through their art, while providing our customers affordable, beautiful, inspiring and amusing local and all-American-made products. Who is your role model or mentor? My mother: she took me to galleries, art shows and museums as far back as I can remember. She’s never slowed down, and even at 82 she still practices law. What is your motto or theme song? “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” —Aesop
Diane Jackson
What place inspires you and why? Bali: the people live their spirituality through magical, joyful, beautiful art that is interwoven into every aspect of their life.
Specialties: Art, Gifts and Jewelry Made in America 2711 Main St, Santa Monica, 310.452.5409 3319 W Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, 818.840.0123 mindfulnest.com, Twitter: @mindfulnest
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Photos by inGRACE photography
Moderate Me Orange County, California Unique. Necessary. Complex. Moderate Me is a must for anyone in a divorce or custody situation! They are a group of professionals from various backgrounds who work with individuals to help resolve high-conflict personal situations. They know what it is like to be afraid to check email, voicemail or respond. They recognize the need for someone to be your personal assistant and help intercept your ex.
106
Orange County
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Surround yourself with talented people. What do you like best about owning a business? I love challenges and thrills, but I also like the fact that my business is my destiny. What place inspires you and why? Homegrown businesses inspire me. Also touring a place that has been built up over time and knowing that a business model worked.
Mercedes Bankston
What do you CRAVE? New innovative businesses that are green or help people in having a simpler life.
Specialties: Divorce, Custody Battles, Relationship-builders 714.465.2588 moderateme.com
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What do you like best about owning a business? I love the flexibility in choosing my own path professionally and personally. I love the personal interaction with my clients in every aspect of their projects. Who is your role model or mentor? I admire graphic designers who take advantage of classic simplicity in their work like Paula Scher and Tina Roth Eisenberg. I also admire Charles and Ray Eames for their classic furniture design.
Joanna L. Holden
98
Los Angeles
What motivates you on a daily basis? I am motivated by watching my clients see their business being represented in a way that makes them proud.
Modular, ink. Los Angeles, California
Photos by Shani Barel Photography
Creative. Exquisite. Approachable. Joanna Holden of Modular, ink., is a creative guru offering creative and art direction for new or existing businesses. She is a creative director who helps metropolitan luxury retail shops, restaurants, salons and service-based businesses rock their branding. She uses her lifelong obsession with beauty and quality to build brands that last, campaigns that drive consumers wild and visual communications systems that sing.
Specialties: Creative Direction, Branding, Communication Design 310.945.7267, modularink.com, Twitter: @Modular_ink facebook.com/modularink
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Photos by Danette Mitchell
Mom, Esq. Los Angeles, California Savvy. Understanding. Empowering. Mom, Esq., is a unique law firm dedicated to the needs of moms and moms-to-be. Lisa Pierson Weinberger, a veteran employment lawyer and proud mom herself, offers advice, counseling and document preparation regarding fertility, pregnancy and maternity leave benefits, reinstatement rights and the lawful employment of domestic employees. Hers is a one-of-a-kind resource in Los Angeles for women and families.
100
Los Angeles
What are your most popular products or services? Clients come to me for help in understanding and maximizing their maternity leave benefits and negotiating part-time or flexible arrangements when returning to work, and for advice regarding their domestic employees.
Lisa Pierson Weinberger
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? It is critical to really believe in the business that you are building and to surround yourself with people who support your dream. What motivates you on a daily basis? Stopping the inequality and discrimination that women continue to experience in the workplace.
Specialties: Legal Advice and Counseling for Moms 310.927.5559, momesquire.com facebook.com/MomEsq, Twitter: @MomEsq
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Montage Legal Group, LLC Orange County, California Unique. Balanced. Supportive. Montage Legal Group is a unique network of lawyers who previously worked at prestigious law firms, but opted out of the traditional law firm model in search of career flexibility. Montage’s network of over 50 freelance temporary lawyers work for law firms on an hourly basis—assisting with overflow and handling specialized issues—providing the ultimate client with excellent service at affordable rates.
108
Orange County
Lower-left and upper-right photos by SammyBphotography, right-page upper-left and lower photos by Flare Productions
Specialties: Hourly Freelance Lawyers 949.400.0798, montagelegal.com Twitter: @montagelegal
What are your most popular products or services? The freelance lawyers in Montage’s network have experience in almost every legal specialty, including employment law, business law (including entity formation, regulations and contracts), real estate law, patent law, appellate law and all areas of litigation.
Laurie Rowen and Erin Giglia
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Find a business partner. A business partner can be a support system, a sounding board, a second set of eyes, and can hold you accountable to your vision. What is your motto? “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” —Helen Keller 109
Naked Princess Beverly Hills, California Empowering. Romantic. Sensual. Based in Beverly Hills, CA, Naked Princess creates luxury lingerie, paraben-free beauty products with custom scents and an aspirational digital magazine to promote a boudoir state of mind. The brand celebrates romance and femininity with a fresh California perspective and encourages women to live beautifully, love deeply and reign joyfully. Created for all women, sizes for intimate apparel range from XS to XL.
102
Los Angeles
Photos by Leslie Rodriguez and Jim Franco Photography
Specialties: Healthy Body and Lip Products, Luxury Lingerie 310.271.1199, nakedprincess.com facebook.com/nakedprincess, Twitter: @nakedprincess
What are your most popular products or services? Naked Shine Luscious Lip Gloss—a nude collection of paraben-free gloss with naturally derived plumpers. What motivates you on a daily basis? Creating luxury for all women. This is why our apparel is available in sizes XS to XL, and we create top-performing beauty products stripped of toxic ingredients.
Jordana Woodland and Becca B. Frank
What do you CRAVE? That all women are empowered by their own unique beauty and the sensual side of themselves—no matter what their size is or their social status.
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Photos by Renee Browne, Sprouts Photography, except portrait
Newton Chase Orange County, California Sophisticated. Chic. Timeless. Newton Chase brings the best interior design practices from vast experiences managing design projects across high-end homes and international hotels. From concept through installation, Newton Chase is built on the philosophy of working closely with clients and our extensive network of architects and vendors to ensure projects run smoothly, on time and within budget, so our clients can enjoy affordable and stylish interior design.
110
Orange County
What are your most popular products or services? Color consultation: the simple selection of a color can have the largest impact on a space. What motivates you on a daily basis? My motivation is the design challenges clients bring to me. Working together to offer solutions in a fresh new way and turning that vision into a reality is so rewarding. What is your motto or theme song? “Simplicity, suitability and proportion.” —Elsie de Wolfe
Michelle Milisci
What do you CRAVE? Shoes and Audrey Hepburn’s crocodile bag from Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Specialties: Interior Design 949.394.5737, newtonchase.com linkedin.com/in/michellemilisci facebook.com/newtonchaseinteriordesign pinterest.com/newtonchase
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ON THE TEE Los Angeles, California Unique. Stylish. Comfortable. ON THE TEE is dedicated to providing a sock of outstanding quality, exceptional comfort and striking style for men, women and young adults. They offer fun and unique styles that are perfect for athletic, sport or daily casual wear. Take a look at all of the styles in their portfolio or create your own style for a unique design. Made in the USA!
Specialties: High-quality Socks 818.758.2244, onthetee.com
Photos by Danette Mitchell
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Los Angeles
What are your most popular products or services? Top styles include our animal print socks and custom appliques. We provide exceptional service and custom designs to meet all of your gifting needs. What do you like best about owning a business? Working with my staff and customers, and the constant inspiration they provide. What is your motto or theme song? Old-fashioned service with a personal touch.
Maureen Shapiro
How do you relax? High tea with my girlfriends at the Peninsula Hotel.
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The Perfect Impression The Perfect Banner Aliso Viejo, California Fast-growing. Cutting-edge. Inspiring. For owner and designer Suzie Abrahams, finding the perfect gift online was not only her calling but her passion. With her unparalleled attention to detail, Suzie launched the Perfect Impression in 2007, in hopes of restoring the joy of gift giving to women everywhere. So from busy wives to exhausted moms, from doting grandmothers to entrepreneurs and professionals with hectic schedules, the Perfect Impression is their hero!
112
Orange County
Photos by Cheri Bradshaw Photography
Promotional Products, Unique and Personal Gifts, Corporate and Personal Embroidery, Silk Screening, Custom Banners, Logo Creation, Graphic Design, Sales and Marketing Campaigns 27111 Aliso Creek Rd, Ste 185, Aliso Viejo, 949.305.0797 ThePerfectImpression.com, ThePerfectBanner.net facebook.com/ThePerfectImpression
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Create a business plan with estimated budgets, and plan to spend two times that amount. Stay focused on sales and manage those numbers weekly, monthly and consistently. It’s the key to staying on target. What do you like best about owning a business? I love being in control of my destiny. I know that anything I put my mind to I can accomplish.
Suzie Abrahams
What inspires you? My inspiration is drawn from quiet time alone. I can work through just about anything when I’m away from the hustle and bustle of the day. 113
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Today’s global market demands “purpose” as being crucial within the basic key points: product, price, place and promotion. Purpose allows deeper levels of engagement with your consumer.
Philippa Radon
What do you like best about owning a business? Crazy, I know, but the responsibility of it all. Creatively and technically, it pushes me to constantly strive for more, better, greater. What is your motto or theme song? My motto is simple: “What if?” as that always opens the door to new thinking. My team and I always use the “what if” approach when designing a project.
106
Los Angeles
Philippa Radon Design West Hollywood, Los Angeles
Photos by Jolie Kinga
Inspiring. Intuitive. Detailed. Philippa Radon Design is a boutique design firm dedicated to providing clients with stylish homes that will change the way they experience their spaces and lives. Pursuing design projects through a color-driven approach distinguishes our methods. Understanding that today’s savvy clientele often has a grasp of what they conceptually want to achieve, we navigate them through the stages while broadening their understanding of design.
Specialties: Color Consulting and Design By appointment only: 5360 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, 323.938.0788 philipparadondesign.com, Twitter: @Philippa_Radon
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What are your most popular products or services? Our best sellers are our soft, easy-towear styles. Everyone wants those go-to items in her closet, and we offer plenty of those selections. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? You must be passionate about what you do. It’s true: if you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.
Phyllis Swanson
What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom to make the shop my own makes all the stress worthwhile! What is your motto or theme song? Clothing and accessories for the way we live now!
114
Orange County
Phyllisophical Old Town Tustin, California Unconventional. Innovative. Fabulous. Walking into Phyllisophical is like a breath of fresh air. It’s not your typical women’s boutique. It’s a warm, comfortable atmosphere that leaves you inspired. The helpful staff makes you feel at ease, and caters to you the person, not you the shopper.
Photos by Kristine Ko Creative Studio and Flare Productions
Specialties: Avant Garde, Edgy and Chic Fashions 191 E Main St, Ste 1A, Tustin, 714.838.1600 shopphyllis.com
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What are your most popular products or services? Our personalized color sessions, where you work one-on-one with a Primp make-up artist, talk about current trends and find the perfect colors just for you, are very popular. Also, our eyebrow shaping and hands on make-up lessons are an absolute favorite.
Kim Bouman
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Pursue your passion. Connect to your Godgiven gift and have faith that the income will follow. Never let the opinions of others keep you from following your dreams. What motivates you on a daily basis? I absolutely love what I do and I adore all my amazing clients! Every time I walk into my studio, I just get a big smile on my face and think, “How lucky am I?�
116
Orange County
Primp Make-Up Lounge Corona del Mar, California
Photos by Cheri Bradshaw Photography
Charming. Feminine. Classy. Primp Make-Up Lounge is a full-service boutique style make-up studio. Founder Kim Bouman and her expert team of artists provide an array of services, from brow design to lash and brow tinting, from waxing to make-up lessons and application. Playful yet sophisticated, Primp was created to be a charming and welcoming space for women of any age to explore different looks, tap into their creative spirit and look and feel their absolute best.
Specialties: Make-Up Lessons, Brow Shaping, Color Pallet Expertise 700 Carnation Ave, Corona del Mar, 949.723.0044 primpmakeuplounge.com, facebook.com/kim.bouman
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Pure Barre Costa Mesa and Mission Viejo, California Effective. Fantastic. Confident. Pure Barre is a total body workout that lifts your seat, tones your thighs and burns fat in record-breaking time. Utilizing the ballet barre to perform small isometric movements set to fantastic music, Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective yet safest way to change your body. Students see results in just 10 classes.
118
Orange County
Photos by Christine Bentley Photography
Specialties: Barre Classes Newport Beach: 234 E 17th St, Ste 116, Costa Mesa, 949.230.9131 purebarre.com/CA-newportbeach, facebook.com/PureBarreNewportBeach Mission Viejo: 28321 Marguerite Pkwy, Ste 201, Mission Viejo, 949.861.1565 purebarre.com/CA-missionviejo, facebook.com/PureBarreMissionViejo Twitter: @purebarrenbmv
What are your most popular products or services? Our workout classes are unlike any other. We can take any age, shape and size and transform their bodies. The workout is why people come into our studio. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? You have to commit to it with your whole heart. There are bad and good days. You learn to laugh at the bad and rejoice in the good.
Monica Pommier
What do you like best about owning a business? It’s rewarding. With Pure Barre, it is seeing women’s confidence improve. It’s fulfilling to know that something I created enables people to see what was in them all along. 119
Pure Barre Brentwood Brentwood, Los Angeles Effective. Fun. Inviting. Pure Barre was founded and created by Carrie Rezabek Dorr. It is a total-body nonimpact workout that fuses elements of ballet and Pilates into an intense 55-minute session set to fantastic music. The Brentwood location opened its doors in February 2009. Since then it has developed a large following of devoted clients tired of not seeing results from their usual gym routine.
108
Los Angeles
Photos by Danette Mitchell
Specialties: Barre Classes 11819 Wilshire Blvd, Ste 213, Los Angeles, 310.463.7873 purebarre.com facebook.com/PureBarreLA, Twitter: @purebarreLA
Marni Chaikin
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t ever give up. Starting something from scratch is the most challenging thing you may ever do. Find a mentor who can guide you when the going gets tough. What do you like best about owning a business? I get to meet the most incredible people! I am inspired every day by my clients and the stories that they share with me. What motivates you on a daily basis? My daughter. I look into her eyes every morning and get the biggest smile on my face! I try to be the best I can possibly be for her. What is your motto or theme song? My daughter’s first sentence was “be happy.” She says it all day long, so I tend to say it a lot now, too. How do you relax? Lunch with a good girlfriend or a deep tissue massage Even having the opportunity to veg out on my couch and watch Mad Men on my iPad feels luxurious to me these days! What place inspires you and why? The South Island of New Zealand. It is the perfect combination of stunning scenery, incredible weather, amazing food and beautiful people.
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What are your most popular products or services? Heated yoga classes, Yogalates (Pilates and yoga), plus a multitude of class levels and styles, and Ra Strength (weights + yoga). What tip would you give women who are starting a business? You need an outlet to step away from the business every now and again. This helps maintain sanity and strength when pushing through the initial stages of opening a business.
Jenny Vande Hei and Aileen Pham
120
Orange County
What do you like best about owning a business? Being able to constantly pursue our dream. Anything is possible as a business owner.
Ra Yoga Studio Costa Mesa, California
Photos by Cheri Bradshaw Photography
Inviting. Rejuvinating. Radiant. Ra Yoga Studio is locally owned and operated, designed with the traditional values of yoga: to serve and to love while uniting the body, mind and spirit. Brought to life by friends Jenny Vande Hei and Aileen Pham, whose vision of yoga was not just a physical practice but a state of mind and freedom of spirit.
Specialty: Yoga 3077 Bristol St, Ste A, Costa Mesa 714.708.3060 rayogastudio.com Twitter: @rayogastudio
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Know who you are and know your purpose. Don’t give up. What do you like best about owning a business? Creative freedom. I enjoy sharing my passion with others and seeing women beautifully transform during a photo shoot. Who is your role model or mentor? Oprah: love her strength! She has a huge heart and shares it with the world.
Rachel Gonzalez
110
Los Angeles
What do you CRAVE? Morning light is so amazing! I love how it trickles throughout a room or against someone’s face!
Rachel Gonzalez Photography Los Angeles, California
Photos by Rachel Gonzalez Photography
Exclusive. Timeless. Original. Rachel Gonzalez Photography specializes in capturing the moments in your life that matter. From an intimate wedding to a perfect portrait, Rachel adds her creative touch to personalize each experience. Rachel is fun and easy to work with; her wish and goal is for all women to capture the best parts of their lives through photography and timeless memories.
Specialties: Portraits, Weddings, Seniors, Boudoir 818.275.0299, rachelgonzalezphotography.com facebook.com/RachelGonzalezPhotography
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Rebma Elyk Natural Skincare LLC San Francisco, California Luxurious. Honest. Essential. Rebma Elyk Natural Skincare (pronounced ray’ma ee-leek) features natural, affordable luxury skincare products made with premium ingredients, for all skin types and ethnicities. Ingredients are pH-balanced, vegetarian, gluten-free and cosmeceuticalgrade. Honest, natural skincare with the support of science. Rebma Elyk can be found at premier women’s events in the greater San Francisco Bay Area and online. Committed to community and eco-friendly practices. Your skin is waiting...
88
San Francisco
Photos by U Me Us Studios
Specialties: Premium, Natural Skincare 925.219.7420, rebmaelyk.com facebook.com/RebmaElykSkincare, Twitter: @RebmaElyk
What are your most popular products or services? Our signature product: Natural Intensive Moisturizing Cream (for hands and body). What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Always be authentic.
Andrea Dent
What do you like best about owning a business? Aside from the obvious, I like waking up every day living my dream and knowing that I have made a positive impact in the lives of others. How do you relax? By shutting everything down and making time for self. Meditation works wonders... Oh, and a spa day! 89
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Have a business plan! And remember… for greater success, it’s a really good idea (not to mention smart business) to have some financial reserves.
Hannah Olivieri, Melissa Grace and Rita Miles
What do you like best about owning a business? How proud we feel every time we step inside our salon. We get to express our own unique creativity and individuality, and encourage others to do the same and feel great about themselves in the process. There’s nothing like it. What motivates you on a daily basis? Knowing that by making the choice to do what we really love, it just might inspire others to do what they love to do too. Being surrounded every day by creative people, hearing our clients’ life stories and seeing them leave the salon feeling confident and beautiful. What place inspires you and why? Art galleries and fabric stores. Runway shows and magazines. Architecture and travel, and seeing how trends and cultures blend. What do you CRAVE? Happy clients, and hearing them say when they leave Salon 359, “I feel so beautiful!”
122
Orange County
Salon 359 Newport Beach, California Unique. Creative. Energetic. Salon 359 is a luxury and trendsetting studio that combines innovative hairstyling, beauty and personal services. Located in stunning Newport Beach, the atmosphere is stylish and hip, without being intimidating. So whether your style is classic elegance or California chic, come by and kick up your four-inch heels or your designer flip-flops and just relax. The girls at Salon 359 will take care of the rest.
Specialty: Hairstyling 359 San Miguel, Ste 107, Newport Beach 949.760.8359, www.Salon359.com facebook.com/Salon359, Twitter: @Salon_359
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“Being complacent is our biggest fear. We always remember our roots and why we started.” —Melissa Grace, Hannah Olivieri and Rita Miles, Salon 359
Photos by Cheri Bradshaw Photography
ShowStoppers Orange County, California Elegant. Avant-garde. Obliging. ShowStoppers sharpens the look and feel of women with a double-sided industrial adhesive, otherwise recognized as fashion tape. Unique from other tapes on the market, ShowStoppers is built to safeguard delicate fabrics from snags and residue, and has muscle power that can hold up denims and leather. ShowStoppers is based out of Manhattan Beach, CA, but also has a strong online and TV presence.
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Orange County
Shannon Mattingly and Jillian Berry
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Persevere. No good business began with ease. Working through the intersectional struggles that a woman entrepreneur faces with patience, poise and potency will ultimately result in success. What do you like best about owning a business? Founder of Dermalogica Jane Wurwand says, “One who is unemployable is an entrepreneur.� Being entrepreneurs, we explore ideas as an employee and implement those ideas as our employer. How do you relax? We work harder! The only thing that makes us feel relaxed is when we know we are being productive.
Specialty: Fashion Tape 310.321.7860, buyshowstoppers.com facebook.com/ShowStopShop, Twitter: @ShowStopShop
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Photos by U Me Us Studios
Smart Simple Marketing Emeryville, California Focused. Insightful. Savvy. Smart Simple Marketing is about (1) connecting with the people you are meant to serve, (2) generating a profit month after month, and (3) having a lot of fun doing the work you love. Sydni Craig-Hart is a brilliant strategist who will create a simple, customized plan for you to increase your income, and she’ll help you implement it so that you reach your goals.
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San Francisco
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Expect things to take longer than you think they should. Don’t give up because you hit an obstacle. Keep looking for what you can do instead of letting challenges discourage and overwhelm you. What motivates you on a daily basis? My never-ending passion to help women be successful in business.
Sydni Craig-Hart
What is your motto or theme song? Ask for what you want! The worst the person can say is no, and at least you’ll know the answer. What place inspires you and why? The ocean. When my feet hit the sand, I have instant clarity and peace. All things seem possible, and I leave feeling inspired and ready to tackle the world again!
Specialties: Getting You Clients and Increasing Your Income 2340 Powell St, Ste 223, Emeryville, 510.601.0470 SmartSimpleMarketing.com facebook.com/smartsimplemarketing Twitter: @sydnicraighart, linkedin.com/in/sydnicraighart
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Stay true to your visions and your passions. Follow your heart and listen to your gut. Just keep going! What do you like best about owning a business? Being able to create, design and provide the product and/or services you want. Freedom of creativity and the courage to be ambitious is what I love about owning my business.
Tiara Rivera
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Los Angeles
What motivates you on a daily basis? I think we are responsible for envisioning the life that we want. I work hard every day and strive for what I want my life to be!
Spa Tiara Los Angeles, California
Photos by Leslie Rodriguez and Angelo Kritikos
Authentic. Natural. Healing. Tiara Rivera, certified massage therapist and owner of Spa Tiara, is making quite a splash on the LA scene. Whether it be through corporate, press or editorial events, on-site spa parties or private sessions with her elite clientele, Tiara’s unparalleled gift for massage, her attention to detail and her organic and sincere presence make for an unforgettable on-site spa experience.
Specialties: Massage 310.866.0233 spatiara.com facebook.com/spatiara Twitter: @SpaTiara
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? First, find your passion. Then learn and read everything you can about business. Surround yourself with inspiring, likeminded people and give it your all, every day. Never stop learning. What is your motto or theme song? If you’re not laughing, you’re not living! How do you relax? I love spending time with my family: any time we can get out of the house and spend time together. It may not be “relaxing,” but it recharges me.
Renee Browne
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Orange County
What do you CRAVE? Being around inspiring, self-motivating women. Business is a tough world, and we can help one another.
Sprouts Photography Downtown Fullerton
Photos by Renee Browne, Sprouts Photography
Friendly. Creative. Modern. Sprouts Photography is a full-service photography studio located near downtown Fullerton that specializes in photographing babies, children and families. The studio is built with families in mind. Sprouts offers custom photo sessions, fine art prints, wall art, custom framing and much more. Each and every session is tailored to you and your family.
Specialty: Fine Art Portraiture By appointment only: 120 N Malden Ave, Fullerton 714.449.1987, sproutsphotography.com Twitter: @sproutsphoto, facebook.com/SproutsPhotography
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Stephanie Grace Designs Santa Monica, California Fresh. Sophisticated. Graceful. One of LA’s preeminent florist and event planners, owner Stephanie Grace is in high demand for her ability to design elaborate weddings and events, as well as intimate and elegant soirees. With the addition of a chic gift, floral and home‑entertaining boutique, Stephanie Grace Designs provides exquisite taste, personal service and unique ideas for all gift, party and floral needs.
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Los Angeles
Photos by Kate Romero Photography
Specialties: Weddings and Event Design 912 Montana Ave, Santa Monica, 310.458.6010 stephaniegrace.com, Twitter: @stephaniegrace1
Who is your role model or mentor? My mother. She’s amazingly talented and hard working, and has the most impeccable taste.
Stephanie Grace
What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat? I will never again do something that I am not 100 percent passionate about. People may be surprised to know... I have a law degree and a business degree. Where is your favorite place to go with your girlfriends? I love spending a Saturday afternoon walking up and down Montana Avenue, eating, shopping, and just catching up on life. 115
Photos by Shani Barel-Desser
Stylist, Laurie Graham Los Angeles, California Thorough. Encouraging. Inspiring. Laurie Graham helps individuals update their professional and personal wardrobes through closet consultations, personal shopping, look-book pictorials and special-occasion styling. Laurie helps clients project an image as a leader in their specific field with customized wardrobe recommendations based on each individual’s lifestyle, personality, body type, age group and budget. She teaches each client how to effortlessly dress with confidence from head to toe.
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Los Angeles
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Delegate, delegate, delegate! As a perfectionist, I wanted to do everything myself. Hiring a team of experts was the best way to grow my business and keep my sanity. Who is your role model or mentor? I am continually seeking inspiration from various business coaches, fashion designers, motivational speakers and the masters who have gone before me.
Laurie Graham
What place inspires you and why? Traveling to other cities around the US and Europe fuels my soul. I love to soak up new cultures through unique architecture, delicious cuisine, incredible views and beautiful people.
Specialties: Personal Styling, Wardrobe Consulting 310.948.6175, lauriegrahamstyle.com, Twitter: @styledbylaurie
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“Giving people permission to shine their light brightly excites me. Watching a client beam with confidence from a whole closet full of figure-flattering outfits is the biggest payoff.” —Laurie Graham, Stylist
Left-page right photo by Kristine Ko Creative Studio
Tamera Event Design Newport Beach, California Unexpected. Visionary. Meticulous. Tamera Event Design has mastered the art of celebration. They design corporate and private events, weddings and social entertaining. They provide all areas of event services, both full-service and a la carte. Team Tamera’s event producers have extensive experience in the event industry. They meld specific elements for themed and detailed decor, add precision coordination and meticulously manage every last detail for unforgettable moments.
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Orange County
What are your most popular products or services? We transform the event space with emphasis on detailed and themed event decor. We customize our own props, stage outrageously creative dessert displays and have a customized line of invitations. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Follow your passion. Do what energizes you because it will carry you through the lean times. The journey of selfdiscovery never ends, so don’t be afraid to reinvent yourself.
Tamera Richard
What is your motto or theme song? “We do not remember days; we remember moments.” —Cesare Pavese, Italian poet
Specialty: Event Design 949.981.1172 tameraeventdesign.com facebook.com/tamera.event.design Twitter: @tameraevent
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Tara Becker & Friends Orange County, California Courageous. Sassy. Inspiring. Tara is passionate about making a difference in the world. By creating Tara Becker & Friends, she invites viewers to join her on a personal journey as she writes her first book, From Fear to Freedom. Through regular video posts, Tara candidly shares her bumps and bruises, laughter and joy on the road to self-discovery.
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Orange County
Photos by inGRACE photography
Specialties: Author, Blogger, Speaker, Traveler 303.526.6400, TaraBecker.com facebook.com/TaraBeckerAndFriends
What motivates you on a daily basis? Having the passion is to inspire women to embrace their own feminine power of love and light and empowering them to soar beyond all imagined possibilities, creating outrageous achievements. What place inspires you and why? I am absolutely inspired by Paris and everything about it. It’s the “city of love,” but more than that, everything in Paris just seems more vibrant, alive and spectacular.
Tara Becker
What do you CRAVE? Genuine, deep, authentic relationships. I believe it’s one of the most important things anyone can experience in this lifetime.
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What are your most popular products or services? We have a busy cafe, a large selection of gourmet to-go items and a catering division.
Maire Byrne
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Talk to as many people as you can when starting your own business. People will connect you with others who will help you on your journey! What do you like best about owning a business? I like that I am 100 percent engaged. I feel like I am challenged every day to do my best, and I am constantly learning. What place inspires you? NYC! I love the energy. New Yorkers are always coming up with great new food ideas.
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Los Angeles
Thyme Cafe & Market Santa Monica, California Creative. Tasty. Busy. Thyme Cafe & Market is a gourmet cafe in the heart of Santa Monica. Thyme opened in October of 2009 and has been serving up seasonal, fresh, local food ever since. Thyme has a gourmet marketplace where you can pick up dinner to go or a quick gift for a friend. Thyme Cafe & Market also has a catering division.
Photos by Leslie Rodriguez Photography, except portrait by Starla Fortunato
Specialties: Fresh, Gourmet, Local Food 1630 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica, 310.399.8800 thymecafeandmarket.com
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Tracey Trottenberg Orange County, California Intimate. Authentic. Transformational. Tracey Trottenberg, founder and CEO of Amazing Women International Inc, trains and showcases women leaders and speakers through intimate group workshops, live events and one-on-one coaching. Women who work with Tracey dig deeper and learn what it really takes to speak powerfully, authentically and stay true to who you are as a woman. They are supported through breakthroughs and life-changing experiences so they own any stage, and become more clear, confident and compelling. Tracey specializes in the inner and outer game of speaking, leadership and staying feminine.
Specialties: Public Speaking Training and Leadership Coaching for Women 310.930.1296, Twitter: @TraceyTrott amazingwomen.org, TraceyTrottenberg.com
Photos by inGRACE photography, except for portrait
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Orange County
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Public speaking is one of the fastest ways to grow your business... bar none. The key is to know how you show up and how to connect: it’s not just what you do or say, but who you “be” on any stage (live or virtual) that creates real results.
Tracey Trottenberg
What do you like best about owning a business? I absolutely love the juiciness of bringing my own “special sauce” to amazing women, helping them dig deeper, play bigger and bring out the “gold” that’s inside every one of them. How do you relax? Schmunching with my cat Stormy, singing, getting massages, time with my man and with my girlfriends. 135
Clockwise from upper left: photos by Luke Pidgeon, Lyndsey Hall, Leslie Rodriguez, Leslie Rodriguez, Stephen Schauer
Twig & Willow Belmont Heights, Long Beach Rare. Stimulating. Approachable. Having won the 2012 Readers Choice award for the “Best Place to Shop” for both women’s clothing and jewelry, and “The Best Women’s Boutique in LA 2011” by the Los Angeles Times, partners Karen Quimby and Billie Gentry have grand plans for their business. Patrons flock to their cozy Long Beach boutique stocked with locally designed jewelry, artisan gifts, gorgeous accessories, baby gifts, unique apothecary products and clothing they’ve coined as “comfy-chic.” They handpick pieces that cater to each woman’s everyday lifestyle.
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Los Angeles
What are your most popular products or services? We have become the go-to place in Long Beach for gift giving, locally crafted jewelry and our comfy-chic, bohemian approach to fashion. Our genuine and friendly sales staff makes shopping fun and pain-free!
Karen Quimby and Billie Gentry
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Clear focus! Know the customer you want to appeal to and the platform you want to base your business around. Have understanding and generous husbands/ family who want to support you. What motivates you on a daily basis? Creativity. We brainstorm weekly to keep things fresh for the staff and the store. The positive reaction to what we are doing keeps us constantly wanting to do more.
Specialties: Comfy-Chic Fashion, Gifts and Unique Jewelry 3740 E 4th St, Long Beach, 562.433.TWIG (8944) twigandwillow.com, facebook.com/twigandwillow Twitter: @twigandwillow
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Remember that you are valuable and an asset to your business... from day one! Make planning for the future a priority; it doesn’t happen overnight. What do you like best about owning a business? Freedom, independence, accountability. Being able to create my own future.
Bette Tydings
What is your biggest fear? What happens when women keep their heads buried, don’t plan and don’t make their own financial health and well-being a priority. That really frightens me. What is your motto or theme song? “I am a woman: hear me roar.” —Helen Reddy and Ray Burton
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Orange County
Tydings and Associates Lake Forest, California Savvy. Holistic. Innovative. Tydings and Associates is committed to the financial health of all their clients. As an advocate for female entrepreneurs, Bette Tydings partners and collaborates with women. She starts with a snapshot of their current financial situation, implements innovative solutions and strives through education to empower women financially. Bette will be with you every step of the way.
Photos by inGRACE photography
Specialties: Long-term Financial and Wealth Planning By appointment only: 22865 Lake Forest Dr, Ste 105, Lake Forest 949.598.1970, TheNala.com/directory/Tydings-Associates
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Typhanie Peterson Design Orange County, California Chic. Polished. Playful. Typhanie Peterson Design is an interior design consulting studio dedicated to providing excellent services and products. Built on the foundation that anyone can have a beautiful home no matter the budget, they strive to create exquisite spaces that clients will be proud of. By using a combination of high-end and inexpensive pieces, along with some great vintage finds, they tailor each project to each client’s needs and wants.
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Orange County
Photos by Flare Productions, Erika Bierman, Lucas Peterson and Chelsea Johnson
Specialties: Small Spaces 949.354.4867, typhaniepeterson.com Twitter: @TyphPeterson
What are your most popular products or services? Space planning and vintage furniture consulting. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t give up! The first couple of years can be rough, but if you love it, then it’s worth it, so keep at it.
Typhanie Peterson
Who is your role model or mentor? In the design world, it’s definitely Barbara Barry. Her calm, cool elegance is very inspiring. Seeing her work was what first inspired me to pursue this career. What is your motto or theme song? “A place for everything, so everything can return to its place,” yet I am still comically disorganized from time to time. 139
What do you like best about owning a business? I love all the creative freedom that I put into the business, and it’s great to be able to make my own schedule and work alongside my husband.
Evonne Wong
What motivates you on a daily basis? Choosing to do what I am passionate about, and knowing that what I do brings so much joy to others. It truly is a blessing. What place inspires you? Museums are great places for creative artists to get inspiration from, but I also love to travel. It’s inspiring to experience different cultures, food, language and people. What do you CRAVE? A photo tour in India or a photo safari in South Africa!
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San Francisco
U Me Us Studios Emeryville, California
Photos by U Me Us Studios
Fun. Fresh. Chic. U Me Us Studios is a boutique photography company composed of three photographers: Evonne Wong, Darren Wong and Jon Lagon, who specialize in weddings, events and lifestyle portraits. They are based in Emeryville, California, but are available worldwide.
Specialty: Wedding and Portrait Photography By appointment only: 1510 32nd St, Loft #4, Emeryville, 415.662.8880 umeusstudios.com, facebook.com/UMeUsStudios, Twitter: @UMeUsStudios eventsbyevonne.com, facebook.com/EventsbyEvonne, Twitter: @Evonne_Wong
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What inspired you to start your business? We began a gift company in 1999 in a converted garage. Our business grew by word of mouth, and when we began to look for a storefront, the three of us came across this mini-mart attached to a little house. We purchased the land and the building, which came with a wine and beer license! Susan is a sommelier and Tracy a wine collector—so began venokado!
Susan Brink, Molly Brink, and Tracy Hof
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Los Angeles
Who is your role model or mentor? In terms of wine, LA restaurants LUCQUES and AOC. Tavern owners Caroline Styne and Suzanne Goin had a big impact on our culinary experience. The terroir of Italy really played a great role in inspiring all three of us. Our grandmother, Maxine Irwin Brink, was the inspiration for the gifts.
venokado West Hollywood and Santa Monica
Photos by Leslie Rodriguez Photography
Modern. Whimsical. Curated. A lifestyle store, venokado features small-batch, boutique wines from around the world, as well as curated items for home, baby, pets, and self. Venokado specializes in the “clutch� gift: a grab-and-go, color-coordinated box filled with wine, chocolates, candles, etc., that can be custom created or premade. Venokado also offers a wine of the month, delivery and shipping.
Specialties: Boutique Wines and Gifts 7714 Fountain Ave, West Hollywood, 323.850.1600 395 Santa Monica Pl, Santa Monica, 310.576.2500 venokado.com, Twitter: @venokado
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VIP Nannies Inc., Household Staffing Los Angeles, California Trusted. Proven. Professional. VIP Nannies Inc., Household Staffing provides celebrities and high-profile families throughout Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Ventura and Orange County with the best nannies, baby nurses and on-call babysitters. VIP nannies are educated, experienced professionals who have a passion for working with children. VIP Nannies Inc. was voted by CBS Studios as one of 2011’s Best Nanny Agencies in Los Angeles and has been featured on the Ricki Lake Show.
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Los Angeles
Photos by Shani Barel Photography
Specialties: Nannies, Newborn Care Specialist and Temporary Babysitters 11950 Ventura Blvd, Ste 2, Studio City, 818.980.6269 VIPnannyagency.com, facebook.com/VIPnannies, Twitter: @VIPnannies
What are your most popular products or services? Nannies, baby nurses, newborn care specialists, chefs, personal assistants, housekeepers, house managers and on-call babysitters. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Follow your passion! If you are truly passionate about your work, it won’t feel like work, and you will succeed. I’m passionate about having trusted, quality people work with children.
Rebecca Stewart
What motivates you on a daily basis? Every day I’m excited to meet new people and help them get a new job!
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Vital Life Orange County, California Cleansing. Healing. Rejuvenating. Vital Life offers the ultimate body-balancing experiences. They provide customized cleansing and detox programs supported by the use of colon hydrotherapy as well as pH balancing techniques using biomagnetism. These are all-natural approaches used to restore your overall health and well-being. Come experience the transformational rejuvenation that occurs when you balance your body from the inside out.
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Orange County
Photos by Kristine Ko Creative Studio
Specialties: Colon Hydrotherapy and Biomagnetism 714.588.4657, avitalife.com, Twitter: @vitalife4
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Love yourself in the process of building your business. There is so much that goes into starting a business, so you must not forget to take time out for you. What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom to design my own schedule is priceless. Being your own boss is equivalent to ultimate freedom.
Audra Pugliese
What is your motto or theme song? My motto is “It is what it is.� In other words, roll with the punches so that you don’t get hung up on the particulars.
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{we} FLAUNT Orange County, California Creative. Passionate. Authentic. Shawn Marie Turi is a multi-passionate entrepreneur and founded {we} FLAUNT with the sole purpose to empower entrepreneurs and women. In doing so, she recognized that the first woman she needed to empower was herself. As a champion for women, she found her calling as a business coach and mentor, and is committed to helping entrepreneurs create a business and life they love.
Specialties: Business Coaching, Brand + Business Development 714.497.3399, weflaunt.com
Photos by inGRACE photography
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Orange County
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Love what you do... or don’t do it! Be crystal clear on who your ideal client is. If you need support, then make the investment in you... you’re so worth it! What motivates you on a daily basis? Love and compassion and knowing that anything is truly possible. Realizing every morning that I get to make a living doing what I love. I am a lucky girl for sure!
Shawn Marie Turi
What place inspires you and why? Zermatt, Switzerland. Nestled at the base of the Matterhorn, it’s quaint and beautiful and unexpected. With zero cars, it’s bikes and hikes in the summer, sleighs and skis in the winter.
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Photo by inGRACE photography
“I’m over the moon that I get to do what I really love. Something magical happens... ease and grace take over when you align with what you’re truly passionate about.” —Shawn Marie Turi, {we} FLAUNT
What are your most popular products or services? Trade show giveaway items, screenprinted T-shirts, embroidered or printed canvas totes and hats, golf tournament tee prizes, custom-branded journals, ceramic coffee mugs and awards. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Do something you absolutely love! You are going to spend so much time doing it, you absolutely should enjoy it.
Robin Richter
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Orange County
What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom and the flexibility are amazing. The opportunity we have to make our clients look great is spectacular too.
Wearable Imaging, Inc Orange County, California Fun. Professional. Reliable. Wearable Imaging, Inc is passionate about providing custom-designed promotional products for companies that are seeking innovative and creative new ways to make a lasting impression. By offering unbeatable customer service, undeniably high-quality products, competitive pricing and very fast turnaround, Wearable Imaging, Inc is a trusted and reliable resource. They will successfully and beautifully showcase your brand, business and event!
Photos by inGRACE photography
Specialties: Custom Promotional and Event Gifts 949.888.7837, robin@wearableimaging.com wearableimaging.com, Twitter: @wearableimaging facebook.com/wearableimaging, linkedin.com/in/robinkrallrichter
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Photo by inGRACE photography
“The truth is, I embrace fear because it pushes me to be the best that I can be and to live the fullest life possible.” —Robin Richter, Wearable Imaging, Inc
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? I love having my own business, but business alone is not enough. Being a full-time mom comes first. Listen to your heart always. What do you like best about owning a business? I get to do what I love, and I’ve chosen a “no-pressure” business life, which allows me to be completely present with both my patients and my family.
Dr. Winnie Monaco
150
Orange County
What motivates you on a daily basis? My family and kids. With little ones around, there is no time to be unmotivated. They are full of joy, and everything is an adventure—that motivates me!
Winifred Monaco D.C Costa Mesa, California Compassionate. Healing. Restorative. Dr. Monaco specializes in Active Release Techniques (ART) for athletes and non-athletes alike. She’s certified in upper and lower extremity, spine and nerve entrapments, and she completed the master’s course. As a member of the treatment team for the Ironman Triathlon, Dr. Monaco’s focus is on helping her patients achieve their health and wellness goals to restore them to maximum capacity; she is diversified in adjusting techniques. She is also completing the teacher training program through YogaWorks in an effort to better support and treat her patients.
Photos by Kristine Ko Creative Studio
Specialties: Chiropractic Treatment (ART) and Restored Mobility 2216 Newport Blvd, Costa Mesa, 714.423.8446 lalondemedical.com/chiropractic
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be methodical, and approach your business by gathering all of the information you can. Surround yourself with successful people who understand your business. What do you like best about owning a business? By owning your own business, you are extremely motivated to be successful as it is your own doing. It also allows you the freedom to create your own schedule.
Wendy McMonigle
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Los Angeles
How do you relax? I work in the garden to relax. I have several English gardens around my home. When things get tough, I get going to the garden.
WM Design House Pasadena, California Stylish. Multi-purpose. Unique. WM Design House creates a line of handbags that combine beautiful style with multifunction. Every bag is crafted with meticulous detail and care, featuring the finest leathers, materials and hardware. The brand says dual purpose. Every bag transforms to provide different functions. You will only need one bag, but you will want more.
Photos by Leslie Rodriguez
Specailty: Handbags By appointment only: 233 Ramona Ave, Sierra Madre 626.484.0650 wmdesignhouse.com facebook.com/wmdesignhouse Twitter: @wmdesignhouse
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Stay grounded and focused on what you believe in. Don’t let anyone try to change your core focus on your business and trust in yourself. What do you like best about owning a business? Seeing my creation in the eyes of my customers. Not a day goes by without the feeling of accomplishment: “I did it.”
CJ Zucker
152
Orange County
What motivates you on a daily basis? Providing for my family and creating a life of no worries. What place inspires you? Laguna Beach, because each and every day that I am working, I get to view the Pacific Ocean and feel inspired to grow X&OH.
X&OH Laguna Beach, California Classy. Educational. Fun. X&OH is an upscale pleasure boutique, a stylish sanctuary and an elevated shopping destination. Their goal is to support healthy relationships, connection and intimacy by rekindling romances and rousing inner sex goddesses. X&OH believes that information and education is a valuable part of the equation, as much a part of sexuality as sex itself. Bring your friends in for a fabulous night out with X&OH!
Photos by Kristine Ko Creative Studio
Specialties: Pleasure Parties, Healthy Relationships, Intimacy 1143 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 949.715.4242 xandoh.com, Twitter: @ShopXandOH
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Melody bIringer Innovative. Feminine. Connective. Melody Biringer, self-avowed “start-up junkie,” has built companies that range from Biringer Farm, a family‑run specialty‑food business, to home furnishings to a fitness studio.
CRAVE Founder thecravecompany.com startupjunkie.com
Her current entrepreneurial love‑child is The CRAVE Company: designed to creatively connect entrepreneurs who approach business in a fresh way with the consumers they desire, as well as with each other. CRAVE is a resource for women entrepreneurs to promote their business and support likeminded women. Melody has taken CRAVE from Seattle to more than 30 cities worldwide, including New York City, Boston, Los Angeles, Chicago, Amsterdam and Toronto. Melody is a loyal community supporter, versed traveler and strong advocate for women-owned businesses.
What are your most popular products or services? The global CRAVE community connects savvy business owners through online networks and in-person events. We believe in the power of collaboration amongst smart, successful women entrepreneurs and we facilitate these relationships through our dynamic community. Our new online directory creates a hub for discovering women-owned businesses, with personal insights to attract followers to your business and encourage them to pursue dreams of their own. What was the motivation behind starting your business? I saw my best friend twice in a year and thought, “This is not right.” So I created excuses to get together so that we’d get it on the calendar, instead of giving it lip service. I crave girlfriend time. What is your motto or theme song? “Flashdance... What a Feeling” by Irene Cara. Every time I’m feeling a bit low, I play that song, and my spirits lift immediately.
CRAVE is about building bonds among friends and fostering connections with inspiring, entrepreneurial women. CRAVE cultivates friendships through quality girl time, strengthens the local community by supporting small businesses and serves as a guide to one-of-a-kind shopping, indulging and urban adventures. Learn more about the CRAVE network, including our guides, business events, girls-night-out parties and online networking at:
thecravecompany.com
Being an entrepreneur can be the most rewarding and thrilling choice you make in your business life. CRAVING SUCCESS is a peek into a sister entrepreneur’s head. Melody Biringer, founder of The CRAVE Company, invites you along for a readable romp through the up‑and‑down lessons of being an adventurous and independent businesswoman. Read reviews, get a sneak peek and purchase an e-book or paper copy at: thecravecompany.com/cravingsuccess
CRAVE Californai is a celebration of women entrepreneurs that showcases some of the most creative, interesting and gutsy proprietors throughout our area.
CALIFORNIA
Let us introduce you to a fabulous new designer, to a miracle-worker masseuse, to a confectionery queen, to the amazing women in this region who will help satisfy your next craving. WHAT DO YOU CRAVE?
“CRAVE is all about community and stands out as a model of collaboration across female entrepreneurs from every industry. Now recognized across the country and expanding internationally, when you become a part of CRAVE, you are joining a truly diverse and powerful network of women. As a community and as a business, the brand reminds us to answer the desire-driven question, ‘What do you CRAVE?’” —Liz Lange of Liz Lange Maternity, Completely Me by Liz Lange and Shopafrolic.com “CRAVE is a modern treasure hunt for woman-owned businesses. Mapping a network of business owners throughout the world, CRAVE creates a sense of solidarity, support and goodwill that crosses all genres of business in one incredible collective.” —Robin Coe Hutshing, founder of STUDIO BEAUTYMIX