A Digital Guide of Women Entrepreneurs The ultimate guide to women‑owned businesses in Chicago and Minneapolis, featuring entrepreneurs YOU need to know First Edition
CRAVE Midwest: 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
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!
Chicago (click to jump to) Minneapolis (click to jump to)
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
What are your most popular products or services? Blogger outreach, content generation, social strategies, sponsored events, webcasting, speaking, teaching social media and brainstorming. We handle it all: small business projects to big brand-awareness campaigns.
Beth Rosen
How do you measure success? The expression on my client’s face. We do the analytics; success in social media means buzz! It means viral! Key conversation within your prime audience, starting and never stopping. What do you CRAVE? Connection, growth and learning from new experiences and people each day. Being surrounded by people who take pride in each opportunity they find.
4 Keys Media LLC Chicago, Illinois Creative. Innovative. Fun. Today’s consumers want more than a product—they crave active conversation. This business will kick-start that dialogue. 4 Keys Media identifies your target audience and gets the buzz going through innovative campaigns and content that gets mileage. That means retweets and likes. They create memorable videocasts, podcasts and out-of-the-box events that draw on the best social media platforms to get your message out and circulating.
1
Chicago
Specialties: Marketing, Social Media, Events, Speaking, Video 847.514.6146, 4keysmedia.com Twitter: @BethRosen linkedin.com/in/BethRosen
2
“What I like best about owning a business is the ability to try new strategies, go in new directions and stay true to instinct. Taking a project where it needs to go, using innovation, creativity and passion.” —Beth Rosen, 4 Keys Media LLC Photo by Amy Boyle Photography
Amanda Skrip, CHHC Chicago, Illinois
What motivates you on a daily basis? My clients motivate me. I am so impressed with their eagerness to take control of their health; it’s incredibly rewarding to see people change their lives for the better.
Approachable. Smart. Fun. Amanda Skrip works with clients to create small shifts that have a big impact on health, weight and energy. She helps people look and feel their best by eating a balanced, natural-foods diet. Amanda Skrip is available for private health coaching, cooking classes, pantry makeovers, grocery tours and chef services.
How do you relax? It’s important to make time for exercise and physical activity. It helps me to unwind and focus on myself—rather than my business! I love yoga, Pilates and spinning. What place inspires you? I love visiting markets whenever I travel. I notice the foods that are popular and available in different regions. It fuels me with creativity to write new recipes!
Photos by Emily J. Rivera Photography
Amanda Skrip
1
Chicago
Specialties: Health and Nutrition Coaching, Chef Services 312.823.5752 amandaskrip.com facebook.com/amandaskrip Twitter: @amandaskrip
2
“Hone in on what is truly inspiring you to start a business—and remind yourself of it every day! This will keep you going through tough times.” Amanda Skrip, CHHC
Photo by Emily J. Rivera Photography
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t isolate yourself. Surround yourself with successful business owners. Being in the company and energy of other successful creative entrepreneurs will pay off in ways you’d never imagine.
Althea McIntyre
The Best Career For Me
What is your motto or theme song? “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you’ve imagined.” —Henry David Thoreau What do you CRAVE? Rich and meaningful relationships, deep belly laughs and new adventures.
Chicago, Illinois Purpose-driven. Inspiring. Effective. Althea McIntyre is a seasoned career coach, corporate trainer and speaker who is dedicated to empowering mid-career business professionals to make radical career transformations. She has helped high-performing professionals and executives achieve radical goals such as changing careers, launching new businesses and increasing their incomes. Her clients include executives, entrepreneurs, artists, businesses, and organizations from a wide range of industries. Drawing from her own experience is what makes Althea an ideal career transformation coach. After working for 9 years as a CPA at a Fortune 500 accounting firm, she decided to follow her heart, leave that job and industry, and pursue a new vocation that fully utilizes all her talents and skills. Allowing her passion to drive her work, Althea helps her clients to thrive in both their personal and professional lives.
1
Chicago
Specialties: Career Coaching 847.425.9730, thebestcareerforme.com, Twitter: @AltheaMcIntyre facebook.com/AltheaMcIntyre, linkedin.com/in/altheamcintyre
2
Black Jade Creative Chicago, Illinois Dynamic. Illuminating. Visual. If it’s true that people engage with and buy from you based on emotion, then what kind of emotional connection are you building with your brand? This company creates emotional branding (identity and marketing materials in print and online) that subliminally triggers your prospect’s buying emotions through the combination of graphic design, copywriting, photography and technical development of your identity and brand.
What inspired you to start your business? I can often see the vision for your image—beyond what you see. I revel in bringing it to life.
Rose Mulroney
What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat? Saying yes when I should have said no. What do you wish you’d known before starting your business? People buy you. Your services are a given.
1
Chicago
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
What are your most popular products or services? Photos that sparkle: fully art-directed, professionally styled photo shoots. Marketing materials infused with subliminal triggers. Service models speak volumes about you in 30 seconds or less.
Specialties: Bringing Emotional Branding to All Your Marketing Materials 773.485.5815, blackjadecreative.com, facebook.com/blackjadecreative Twitter: @blkjadecreative, linkedin.com/in/rosemulroney
2
“The islands of Greece inspire me. It is so blue there.” —Rose Mulroney, Black Jade Creative
Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
Blue Top Marketing, Inc. Chicago, Illinois Optimistic. Clever. No-nonsense. Blue Top Marketing is a full-service digital and mobile marketing agency. They specialize in helping small businesses promote and market themselves cost‑effectively by leveraging technology. Blue Top Marketing can build, teach and manage your social media, text messaging, email marketing and more.
What are your most popular products or services? Our trainings and workshops by far. From the individual pieces of the marketing puzzle to putting it all together.
1
Chicago
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Specialties: Social Media, Email and Text Message Marketing 708.808.0258, bluetopmarketing.com, Twitter: @blutopmarketing facebook.com/bluetopmarketing
What makes your business unique? We’re very comprehensive in our marketing approach; we’re not all about the a la carte options. And we make marketing easier than you ever thought it could be.
Stephanie Walters
What do you like best about owning a business? Besides the flexibility with my schedule, I appreciate the quickness with which we can implement new strategies. We don’t go through a lot of meetings to make a decision.
2
Bottle & Bottega Lakeview and the South Loop, Chicago
What are your most popular products or services? Themed events like Masters Monday or Ladies Night with a male nude model! Also, corporate events or baby showers where guests paint a canvas that will compose a larger mural.
Stephanie King-Myers and Nancy Bigley
Social. Fun. Inspiring. Bottle & Bottega is one part artistic adventure, one part cocktail party. Their hands-on BYOB art parties allow even the most artistically challenged to uncork their inner artist and create a masterpiece. It’s no wonder this Chicago original was named “Hottest Franchises for 2013” by USA Today Money. They offer daily public events, private parties (think bachelorette with nude model!), corporate team-building events and fund-raisers.
What makes your business unique? Experiencing art without intimidation (and giving up technology for a moment) while enjoying wine! Our chic, eclectic studios feel like your own living room—it’s social, fun and nurturing.
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography, except upper-left photo by Greg Szoda
What inspired you to start your business? My best friend lamenting her lack of talent. I taught her to paint while we drank a bottle of wine. She was so happy I thought, “Everyone should do this!”
1
Chicago
Specialties: BYOB Wine and Art Parties 2900 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, 773.313.9133 bottleandbottega.com, Twitter: @bottlenbottega facebook.com/BottleBottegaLakeview 1241 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, 773.269.6570 bottleandbottega.com/southloop facebook.com/BottleBottegaSouthLoop
2
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
What inspired you to start your business? Twenty years of wanting more than what already existed for dogs, for people and for my industry at large.
Jamie Damato Migdal
Who is your role model or mentor? The remarkable veterinarian Dr. Yael Cidon. Her love, support and faith have guided me throughout my career. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Create a panel of advisors you trust. Use them. Being an entrepreneur can be lonely; don’t let it be. Create a community around your ideas, passions and goals. What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat? Waiting for permission.
CanineLink Education and Consulting, Inc. West Loop, Chicago Collaborative. Professional. Supportive. CanineLink is a ground-breaking business that supports and develops pet professionals through a fantastic offering of classes, seminars and custom consulting services. Their programs and services support individuals and businesses to reach their full potential as it relates to the pet industry.
1
Chicago
Specialties: Pet Business Consulting, Professional Training By appointment only: 651 W Washington Blvd, Ste 103 LL, Chicago 312.394.9957, caninelink.com, facebook.com/caninelink, Twitter: @caninelink
2
“I crave the opportunity to turn vision into reality.” —Jamie Damato Migdal, CanineLink Consulting and Education, Inc.
Photo by Amy Boyle Photography
Capim Santo Alchemy Chicago, Illinois
What makes your business unique? We place the healing capacity of nature into the hands of our clients through essential oils. Aromatherapy’s impact expands beyond the nose, by tapping into motivations, behaviors and memories.
Restorative. Rejuvenating. Intuitive. Capim Santo Alchemy creates exotic blends of pure essential oils for aromatherapy purposes. Signature blends are inspired by global trends, client cravings and the collective human experience. Custom blends are individually crafted to resonate with the desired outcomes, dreams and mission of the client. Intuition, spiritual insight and scientific wisdom from the plant world are honored in the creative process.
Who is your role model or mentor? Helen Keller who proclaimed, among many wise statements, “Smell is a potent wizard that transports you across thousands of miles and all the lives you have ever lived.”
Dana Frost
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Take one step each day toward your business goals and intermittently take a time-out on the observation deck to see what your action steps streamed together have created.
What is your motto or theme song? Love > Fear How do you relax? I have learned to take “24-hour Retreats” where I set aside distractions, responsibilities and interruptions and allow myself to let go and deeply relax. It’s a formula for total rejuvenation.
1
Chicago
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
What do you wish you’d known before starting your business? Starting your own business is a journey riddled with mistakes and mishaps; each one completely redeemable.
Specialties: Aromatherapy, Wellness, Healing 847.691.0973, capimsantoalchemy.com, facebook.com/CapimSantoAlchemy danafrost.com, Twitter: @dana_frost, facebook.com/danaholtfrost
2
“I enjoy observing my ideas move from an intuitive spark, to notes written in my journal, all the way to becoming reality.” —Dana Frost, Capim Santo Alchemy
Photo by Amy Boyle Photography
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Jump in! Begin, and the resources and people you need will follow. I started my business after practicing law. Chocolate was always my passion. You have a gift to share.
Valerie Beck
Chocolate Walking Tours
What do you like best about owning a business? Owning a business lets me live authentically. My business mission is Uplift Through Chocolate: we uplift our customers, our partner stores, our team and our charity partners. Who is your role model or mentor? Louise Hay reminds us that our thoughts create our future and that gratitude and love open doors.
Chicago, Illinois Delicious. Entertaining. Informative. Chocolate Walking Tours provides guided walking and tasting tours of select chocolate shops, bakeries and cafes. You’ll sample the specialties, meet shop owners or artisan chocolatiers and learn about the history and health benefits of chocolate. Samples might include Champagne truffles, double chocolate cupcakes or chocolate infused with tea. The team provides tours in Boston, Chicago and Philadelphia. The sweetest tour in town!
1
Chicago
Specialties: Chocolate Walking Tours 312.929.2939, chicagochocolatetours.com Twitter: @ChiChocTours facebook.com/chicagochocolatetours
2
Chicago Institute of Natural Health
What makes your business unique? We develop partnerships with people in restoring their health. We educate patients on how to maintain their results and to stay healthy
The Loop, Chicago Holistic. Personalized. Genuine. Chicago Institute of Natural Health provides a personalized holistic approach to every patient needs. Using cutting edge and evidence based treatments in chiropractic, naturopathy, nutritional counseling, functional medicine, and massage, CINH strives to find the cause of the each patients health concern and work with to restore them to feeling invigorated and healthy.
What do you like best about owning a business? The ability to give every patient the treatment that they deserve.
Holly Furlong
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? To be able to say no. Saying yes to everything and everyone can be overwhelming and lead to burn out if not done in a strategic way.
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat? Not taking risks. In the beginning, I wanted to be sure of everything. Sometimes you just have to jump.
1
Chicago
Specialties: Chiropractic, Nutritional Counseling By appointment only: 8 S Michigan Ave, Ste 1420, Chicago, 312.258.1338 chicagoinh.com, facebook.com/chicagoinh, Twitter: @ChicagoINH
2
Chicago Pet Sitters Chicago, Illinois
What do you like best about owning a business? There are no limits to what I can do, and I have the opportunity to create the environment I want to work in.
Reliable. Compassionate. Flexible. Chicago Pet Sitters is dedicated to providing the best quality care for Chicago pets. They offer daily visits, which may include walks, feedings, play times, or just good company, depending on client needs. Chicago Pet Sitters currently serves the city’s north side neighborhoods, from Streeterville to Ravenswood.
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? “To lead the orchestra, you have to turn your back on the crowd.” —Max Lucado There will always be naysayers; you can’t expect them to see your vision.
Dana Dubriwny Steshetz
What place inspires you? The gym. It’s the one place where I can tune out the world and focus on my own strength, both physically and mentally.
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
How do you keep balance in your life? I have found a way to combine work with my family. My dogs and husband are very present in our day-to-day activities.
1
Chicago
Specialties: Daily Dog Walking, Kitty Sitting, Overnight Care 773.456.1483, chicagopetsitters.com, facebook.com/ChicagoPetSitters
2
City Staffing The Loop, Chicago Flexible. Committed. Progressive. City Staffing is a WBE-certified, woman-owned Chicago staffing firm. They specialize in temporary, temp-to-hire and direct hire positions in the areas of administrative, marketing, creative and accounting/finance. Relationship and results‑oriented, they are a go-to agency for the Chicagoland area. City Staffing has been named to Inavero’s 2013 Best of Staffing Client and Talent lists.
What are your most popular products or services? Filling client staffing needs in the areas of administrative, creative, marketing, accounting, finance and more. What makes your business unique? The personal experience we provide for both our clients and associates.
1
Chicago
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialties: Staffing and Employment 211 W Wacker Dr, Ste 700, Chicago, 312.346.3400 citystaffing.com, facebook.com/CityStaffing Twitter: @citystaffing, linkedin.com/company/city-staffing
What place inspires you? Our office! We have decorated it to create an atmosphere that embodies what we stand for: fun, energetic and inspirational.
Ellen Dettling and Daphne Dolan
How do you keep balance in your life? By working as a team and encouraging open communication and collaboration.
2
“We crave meeting new people!” —Ellen Dettling and Daphne Dolan, City Staffing
Photo by Amy Boyle Photography
Creative Coworking Evanston, Illinois
What are your most popular products or services? Our flexible membership plans allow people to use the space as much as or as little as they need it. Our fully equipped conference room is a highlight for many members.
Angela Valavanis
Collaborative. Convenient. Elegant. Tired of working from home or your local coffee shop? Creative Coworking is a members-only office space for independent or remote workers, conveniently located in the heart of downtown Evanston. It is a quiet, comfortable workplace offering 24/7 access for all members, an art-filled space for hosting meetings or events, and a warm community atmosphere. There’s even a rooftop deck for working outside!
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Starting a business takes the right combination of passion and patience. Back up your brilliant business idea with a set of reasonable expectations for both short-term and long-term success.
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
What do you CRAVE? I crave connections. I love putting someone in touch with just the right person to help her—or discovering that I have a mutual connection with someone I have just met.
1
Chicago
Specialties: Office Space, Event Space, Art Gallery By appointment only: 922 Davis St, Evanston, 847.905.1314 creativecoworking.com, facebook.com/CreativeCoworking Twitter: @CCoworking
2
Erin Kowalski
Canine Massage Therapist Chicago, Illinois Holistic. Compassionate. Therapeutic. Erin Kowalski provides in-home massage therapy and Reiki to pets of all breeds, ages and physical conditions to promote healing and encourage balance. Complementing traditional veterinary care, Erin’s goal is to optimize the quality of life of all companion animals.
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Set goals and always remember to keep a good balance of all things you are passionate about.
1
Chicago
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialties: Canine Massage Therapy, Reiki, Energy Work 630.399.0462, erinkowalski.com, facebook.com/ekcanine
What do you like best about owning a business? Flexibility in my schedule allows me to work with rescue animals and open my home to foster puppies in need.
Erin Kowalski
What place inspires you? The rescue animals I encounter every day inspire me among other things to forgive often, love unconditionally and to be happy no matter the circumstance. I strive to achieve that daily.
2
Evolving Strategies LLC Chicago, Illinois
What makes your business unique? To quote a client: “Sandy’s... deep understanding of various leadership styles, business cultures and the different ways people learn and process new information serve to inform the grounded guidance she offers.”
Client-focused. Results-driven. Agile. Evolving Strategies LLC is a consulting firm igniting personal, team and organizational performance. Clients include Northern Trust Corporation, United Airlines, Thomson Reuters, the United States federal government, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Accenture and Zebra Technologies. Specialties include coaching managers to become leaders, guiding teams towards high performance and helping leaders navigate organizational change.
What do you like best about owning a business? Flexibility in adapting my business to best serve my clients and my family. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? It is better to be kind than to be right.
Sandy Schwan
1
Chicago
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialty: Helping Leaders and Teams Learn, Adapt and Perform 312.337.8442, evolvingstrategies.com facebook.com/evolvingstrategies Twitter: @smschwan linkedin.com/in/sandyschwan Google+ smschwan
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be clear about how best to align your passions and skills with the business need and gaps in the market. What place inspires you? Walking into any church in the world inspires, energizes and recalibrates. Enjoying blueberry pancakes with my niece Elizabeth on my balcony in Dallas—in February!—inspires me too. How do you keep balance in your life? By putting a few key boundaries in place and sticking to them, no matter what. What do you CRAVE? Living my life’s purpose and helping others live theirs.
2
“Believe BIG, and nurture an attitude of gratitude.” —Sandy Schwan, Evolving Strategies LLC
Family Line Studios Chicago, Illinois Memorable. Meaningful. Moving. Family Line Studios produces video biographies, giving families a way to capture the life story, family history and life lessons of a parent or grandparent in a captivating “moving” portrait. These legacy videos weave an in-depth, sensitively filmed interview with family photos, documents, maps and other memorabilia to bring stories to life, connecting generations on a very personal level. An ideal gift for milestone celebrations.
What do you like best about owning a business? I love being my own boss and managing my own schedule. It allows me to balance my children’s needs with those of my business without feeling guilty or stressed.
Susan Saunders
1
Chicago
What motivates you on a daily basis? Knowing how meaningful these movies are to my families.
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
What are your most popular products or services? Video biographies. People want to know their parents’ or grandparents’ stories and family history. Likewise, many seniors want to share their stories, memories and life lessons with their children and grandchildren.
Specialties: Legacy Videos, Video Biography, Family Documentary 312.402.6406, FamilyLineStudios.com Twitter: @SusanFamilyDocs, linkedin.com/in/susansaundersvideo
2
“Listen to the advice of ‘experts,’ but trust your own instincts. They may not always understand your vision, have your best interests in mind or be as smart as they profess to be.” —Susan Saunders, Family Line Studios Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
What are your most popular products or services? Our most popular services for our clients are the substantial advertising space on our home page and our dedicated email blasts. Our email blasts are geo-targeted for ample views. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Just do it. It may take a lot of time, but it is well worth it.
Nicki Brashear
What motivates you on a daily basis? The cities we cover. Chicago and San Francisco have a wealth of emerging talent waiting for us to uncover.
Fashionista Chicago Chicago, Illinois Sophisticated. Chic. Stylish. Fashionista Chicago helps local artisans and small-business owners ascend the ranks to department store visibility and promotes their goods and services through multiple web and social media outlets. Fashionista Chicago also spreads the love for national brands by combining local hidden gems with haute couture fashion. Fashionista Chicago helps consumers gain a healthy trendsetting attitude and keep them connected to the hottest style scoop.
1
Chicago
Specialties: Fashion and Style 773.220,9617, fashionista-chicago.com, facebook.com/FashionistaChicago Twitter: @fashchicago, linkedin.com/in/Nicki Brashear
2
FORTUNATE DISCOVERIES Art + Design on Armitage
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Enjoy what you do. Always keep in the forefront of your mind why you started your business. Follow your intuition. Reinvent and redesign yourself at every turn.
Lincoln Park, Chicago Eclectic. Stimulating. Addicting. Providing a retail outlet for artisans and designers, Fortunate Discoveries is a collection of 30 micro galleries in the heart of Lincoln Park. Artists rent space from Fortunate Discoveries and the business details are taken care of. It is Fortunate Discoveries’s goal to learn the stories behind the artists and their art. They are the artists’ representatives, freeing artists to do what they do best... make art.
What do you like best about owning a business? I am amazed by the infinite number of ways people can see art through their own perspective. The reward is matching the right piece of art with the right customer. What place inspires you? The Chicago gallery art district. The sheer enormity of the variety of talent by the individual artists. I leave with a sense of awe and inspiration.
Photos by Emily J. Rivera Photography
Cindy Flaherty-Hutchinson
1
Chicago
Specialties: Art, Fashion, Jewelry 1022 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, 773.472.2220 fortunatediscoveries.com
2
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
What inspired you to start your business? I wanted to create with the client in mind. What are your passions? I love cycling, exploring a city’s hidden sights, and great food and art. How do you measure success? Happy clients, and the ability to have a great life that I determine. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Don’t doubt yourself.
Lisa Ghisolf
What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat? Working for too little. What motivates you on a daily basis? Having a life that I create and enjoy.
Gizmo Creative Factory Chicago, Illinois Smart. Inventive. Spirited. Gizmo Creative Factory strives to partner with every client, from logos and marketing collateral to email marketing, websites and social networking services. With over ten years in business, Gizmo’s focus has always been to find the best way to speak to your audience and build a brand that lasts.
1
Chicago
Specialties: Graphic Design, Website Creation, Social Media 312.545.9235 gizmocreativefactory.com facebook.com/gizmodesign Twitter: @gizmodesign linkedin.com/in/gizmodesign
2
Ideal Space Consulting Chicago, Illinois
What are your most popular products or services? Regular sessions with an organizer or a personal assistant help clients keep up with the demands of their busy lives, more focused on what ignites and fulfills them.
Madelyn George
Intuitive. Compassionate. Insightful. Ideal Space Consulting offers a supportive array of holistic personal organizing, business consulting and other stress-relieving services to busy people. From a perfectly redesigned creative work space to a personal assistant who keeps track of your bills, to a breakthrough strategy and productivity session, out-of-reach ideals will become a present-day reality.
What makes your business unique? We’re not trying to create an illusion of perfection or control. Each project is approached with maximum compassion, because the organizing process can and should be healing, empowering and transformative. What inspired you to start your business? I’ve always been good at helping people achieve clarity and get things done. My gift is to hold space for people and help them articulate their visions and goals.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? One of my first clients blew my mind when she told me me that just because it’s fun doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get paid for it. What do you CRAVE? Salt, adventures and really good stories.
1
Chicago
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
What do you like best about owning a business? I love waking up every day knowing that I am in complete control of my life. I need the freedom and flexibility to follow my instincts.
Specialties: Personal Organizing, Business Consulting, Bodywork 877.557.1717, idealspaceconsulting.com, Twitter: @idealspacemg
2
Intrinsic dm² Downtown Geneva Savvy. Simplifying. Affordable. Specializing in bookkeeping, payroll and daily money management, Intrinsic dm² has over 25 years of experience helping busy individuals to medium-sized businesses. Certified and cost-effective, Intrinsic dm² believes that by taking care of your finances, clients are able to focus on what is most important for their business: taking care of customers.
Specialties: Bookkeeping, Payroll, Daily Money Management By appointment only: 402 E State St, Geneva 630.514.4985, intrinsicdm2.com facebook.com/intrinsicdm2 Twitter: @YvetteBusha linkedin.com/in/yvette-busha
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Network! Involve yourself in the community, and utilize social networking to connect with other local businesses.
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
1
Chicago
What motivates you on a daily basis? Knowing the relief that we can provide clients when we get their finances organized.
Yvette Busha
What do you CRAVE? Saving money! Organization! Getting ready for tax season!
2
IzzyFit Personal Training Evanston and Chicago
What inspired you to start your business? I wanted to have the freedom to train each client in a way that would help him or her succeed, unencumbered by a larger company’s philosophy that may not fit mine.
Vigorous. Passionate. Sincere. IzzyFit Personal Training makes fitness a fun, sane and integrated part of everyday life. The company provides various services to ensure that clients can make time for their health. Combining different exercise methods along with nutritional coaching, the IzzyFit approach is holistic and individualized, giving clients the biggest chance for success. Training is available in private studios in Evanston and Chicago.
What are your passions? I love cooking with people. Feeding people nourishing food is a way to show them love, and sharing a meal together is an awesome way to connect.
Isabelle Libmann
What do you like best about owning a business? I love that I can give my clients what they need without being afraid of going against company policy. Oftentimes clients need coaching that exists outside of the corporate box.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Life can throw you some challenging obstacles, but you have the power to choose to be happy. If you don’t, you’ll wake up one day wondering where your life went.
1
Chicago
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
How do you measure success? When a client reaches a goal and discovers they’re able to do something physically that they haven’t been able to do in a long time: That is success for me.
Specialties: Weight Management, Pre/post-natal, Post-rehab 312.497.8999, izzyfit.me, facebook.com/IzzyFitPT Twitter: @IzzyFit, linkedin.com/in/isabellelibmann
2
Far-left photo and right-page upper photo by Amy Boyle Photography, left-page right photo by Francis Son Photography, lower-right photo by Nando Alvarez Photography
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be persistent, and don’t be afraid to ask for help! I was so surprised by the number of people who have so generously and thoughtfully contributed to our success! What do you like best about owning a business? The flexibility it offers and the creativity it inspires. I feel like I am constantly learning something new and meeting someone new, and I love being in control of my schedule!
Colleen Graneto
La Pucara Jewelry Collections
What motivates you on a daily basis? Our artisans in Ecuador! Even though they have had such difficult lives and limited means, they are such optimistic, creative and thoughtful people—it’s incredibly inspiring!
Chicago, Illinois Handcrafted. Natural. Socially Responsible. La Pucara offers one-of-a-kind jewelry handcrafted with seeds sustainably harvested from the Amazon Rainforest. Each of the pieces captures the essence of the incredible locations where the materials come from, and for every piece of jewelry made, there is a contribution to change. Through their jewelry, La Pucara is working to provide inspiration for a more beautiful and fair world!
1
Chicago
Specialty: Jewelry Handcrafted with Seeds from the Rainforest 216.906.3308, etsy.com/shop/lapucaracollections facebook.com/lapucaracollections, Twitter: @LaPucara
2
Latin American Language Center Inc. Lakeview, Chicago Fun. Social. Affordable. Latin American Language Center, Inc. (LALC) brings to Chicago a fresh way of learning Spanish—as if you were in a foreign country! LALC offers Spanish lessons tailored to meet a broad spectrum of learning styles. LALC hosts Spanish events at Chicago hot spots so that students can practice Spanish, enjoy Latin music, drinks and cuisine. LALC has successfully created community of lifelong Spanish learners and friends!
What inspired you to start your business? The personal realization that learning a second language is not about being smart, it’s about personal motivation. I started LALC to teach curriculum tailored to the goals of my students.
Mara Bogado-Poisson
1
Chicago
What do you CRAVE? To transform the learning language experience in the world and become an influence that creates a contagious solution to connect my students to other parts of the world.
Photos by Emily J. Rivera Photography
What makes your business unique? Building a community versus a classroom. My unique curiosity to learn about my students has created an environment of trust, allowing Spanish to become an enjoyable part of their lives.
Specialties: Group Lessons, Tutoring, Translations, Events 3630 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, 202.641.2151 lalcenter.com, facebook.com/SpanishLessonsChicago Twitter: @spanishchicago, info@lalcenter.com
2
Letterpress by Lydia Chicago, Illinois Handmade. Thoughtful. Elegant. Letterpress by Lydia specializes in letterpress-printed custom invitations, announcements, stationery, business cards and luxury paper goods for all occasions. Each piece is lovingly handcrafted and designed just for you. Using an antique Gordon letterpress (over 150 years old), each project is printed with care. All ink colors are mixed by hand, and many unique paper choices are available, including 100 percent cotton, tree-free options.
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Learn from your mistakes, keep moving forward and find the joy in what you do. Embrace change, and work to improve and grow your business and yourself.
Lydia Evans
1
Chicago
What is your motto or theme song? Let’s try it! I grew up believing you can figure out how to do anything, and I try to abide by that and inspire others to do the same.
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Who is your role model or mentor? My parents. They are both creative entrepreneurs. They’ve shown me the importance of guiding people in the creative process while mastering the skill you have for your craft.
Specialties: Letterpress Wedding Invitations and Paper Goods 847.312.1105, letterpressbylydia.com, Twitter: @letterpresslyds facebook.com/letterpressbylydia
2
Lipstic Logic Chicago, Illinois
What makes your business unique? Authenticity. We base our programming and training around who you really are so that it becomes an ingrained part of how you work, not how your business works you.
Focused. Fearless. Fabulous. Lipstic Logic is a sales and marketing strategy company focused on taking business owners from frazzled to fabulous! Customized client relationship management systems, powerful sales techniques and sheer inspiration fuel a marketing strategy and implementation that can span all forms of media and bring qualified leads to your door. Lipstic Logic puts a spotlight on your business so that you can shine!
What are your passions? We are passionately driven to support and enable people to do and be what they love! Marry who you want, work how you want, inspire everyone as you go!
Marie Hale Ramos
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be brave. Drink wine. Find friends who will understand. You will not be the same woman six months from now, and you will be in love with what you do.
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
How do you keep balance in your life? I organize my time daily. I know where I am going, what is most important and what I can say no to... it’s invaluable!
1
Chicago
Specialties: Strategy, Sales, Sparkle 630.631.7713, lipsticlogic.com, facebook.com/LipsticLogic Twitter: @lipsticlogic, linkedin.com/in/mariehaleramos
2
“I live the life I always wanted. Power suit with matching diaper bag and the time and ability to write my own rules when it comes to motherhood and business.” —Marie Hale Ramos, Lipstic Logic
Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography, except portrait
What makes your business unique? Many of the offerings require that you participate solo. You don’t have to worry about not knowing anyone, no one knows anyone! Embracing your suckage also encouraged, creating immediate bonds. What inspired you to start your business? Dissatisfaction with the traditional avenues to meet potential clients, friends, and boyfriends!
Saya Hillman
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Let your default way of thinking lean positive not negative. Embrace your suckage and turn something you’re “bad” at into goodness. If you desire something that doesn’t exist, create it.
Mac ‘n Cheese Productions Chicago, Illinois Innovative. Transformative. Infectious. Mac ‘n Cheese Productions helps people live a life of yes! Intentional community and meaningful connections in environments where you feel comfortable solo as well as with people you’ve just met. Work, making friends, dating, and self improvement transform from sources of stress to those of joy. Goodness abounds as people who share little in common save for willingness to be open, proactive and vulnerable come together.
1
Chicago
Specialties: Connections, Networking, Events macncheeseproductions.com facebook.com/macncheeseproductions Twitter: @sayahillman
2
Meandering Design Chicago, Illinois Whimsical. Mod. Eclectic. Meandering Design is a design house that creates eclectic, stylish and sustainable clothing and lifestyle accessories. Meandering Design inspires others to do the same through trainings, workshops and online activities for people with little to no sewing experience to learn how to mend and upcycle clothing on their own. Meandering Design wants to create, and inspire others to create, a style that is sustainable.
Specialties: Clothing and Accessories 773.469.4904, meanderingdesign.com facebook.com/MeanderingDesign Twitter: @Meander_Design
What are your most popular products or services? Picnic blankets that are made out of upcycled materials, and each one is unique. I love the connection people have to the materials I use.
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
1
Chicago
Who is your role model or mentor? My mother and grandmother. They taught me how to sew, how to make do with what was on hand, how to do it myself and how to be strong.
Kandy M. Christensen
What place inspires you? Chicago: so many neighborhoods, each with their own unique sense of style and a temperament to match.
2
Multilingual Connections Logan Square, Chicago Interactive. Multicultural. Engaging. Multilingual Connections helps connect individuals and organizations to their heritage, community and world. They offer corporate translation services in over 50 languages and interactive, immersive and culturally-rich classes and tutoring in over a dozen languages for adults and kids. Whether for work, travel, family or just for yourself, open your life to new worlds through Spanish, French, Italian, Mandarin Chinese, Hindi, Arabic, Korean, German, Greek, Hebrew and more!
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Think long-term. I started my business thinking I’d have more flexibility and make more money than I did at my previous job... and it took years to get even close!
Jill Kushner Bishop
1
Chicago
What do you like best about owning a business? The pride of creating something and watching it grow outside of yourself... kind of like a child.
Photos by Emily J. Rivera Photography
What are your most popular products or services? Bilingual Boot Camp is our one-day immersion class offered on a Sunday— just perfect before your honeymoon in Italy or work trip to China!
Specialties: Multilingual Translation and Language Classes 2934 N Milwaukee Ave, Ste C, Chicago, 773.292.5500 mlconnections.com, facebook.com/multilingualconnections Twitter: @M_Connections, linkedin.com/in/jillkbishop
2
“I crave professional fulfillment, family time and a bit of me time.� Jill Kushner Bishop of Multilingual Connections
Photo by Emily J. Rivera Photography
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
What inspired you to start your business? I transitioned into working in the healing arts after experiencing years of chronic pain following a car accident. I really wanted to teach others what I’ve learned. What is your motto or theme song? I always say that your health is the most important thing you can have. As long as you’re healthy, you can always make money; it’s true!
Nourhy Chiriboga
NowStudio Logan Square, Chicago Awakening. Inspiring. Affirming. An intuitive healer with over 13 years of experience, Nourhy uses a unique combination of holistic coaching and alternative bodywork—craniosacral therapy, reflexology and Reiki—to help people tap into their own healing potential. It feels like a cross between a brainstorming session and energy healing, which will leave you feeling more connected and grounded to experience the possibilities of your true intuitive self. Nourhy has been featured in DailyCandy and on the television show 190 North.
1
Chicago
What do you CRAVE? Health, happiness and prosperity. Letting go of things that don’t serve me, and seeing and taking the opportunities that come my way.
Specialties: Healing, Intuition and Holistic Coaching 2515 N California Ave, Chicago 773.276.5278 nowstudio.co Twitter: @nourhy facebook.com/nowstudio linkedin.com/in/nourhy
2
“Sharing my knowledge/wisdom, and getting paid to do so is a dream. Having a chance to help people is a blessing, heart opening and satisfying.” —Nourhy, NowStudio Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Oaklee’s Family Guide Chicago, Illinois
What inspired you to start your business? When my kids were young, I was looking for ways to educate and entertain them. When I couldn’t find a good resource with that information, I started my own.
Easy. Smart. Trustworthy. Oaklee’s Family Guide™ is The Go-To-Guide for On-The-Go Parents™ in the Chicagoland area. They do the legwork to find the what, when and where of family events, places and services, including great money-saving coupons. They put it all together in an easy-to-use publication and website so that busy parents can spend more time having fun with their families.
What are your passions? My passion is helping other women business owners grow and flourish. Oaklee’s Family Guide has spent 14 years building trust with the Chicago mom market.
Nancy Stevens
What do you like best about owning a business? Helping busy moms save time for family fun, and helping other women business owners. I also love creating a family-focused work environment for moms and dads. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Get to know your customer, and be open to changing your product or strategy to best meet their needs.
1
Chicago
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Specialties: Family-Focused Events and Services 847.478.9692, oakleesguide.com, facebook.com/oakleesguide Twitter: @oakleesguide, linkedin.com/in/nancystevens
What place inspires you? I’m always inspired by the beach. It reminds me that life is an endless series of waves, good and bad; that I’m just one small piece of the larger world. How do you keep balance in your life? I’ve always taken time to be there for my kids and husband. I try to create that same environment for my employees. There’s nothing more important than family and health. 2
Out There Strategies Chicago, Illinois
What makes your business unique? Most social media marketing firms offer fantastic strategies to their clients, but very few offer anything beyond that. We offer the day-to-day support and content creation that they need.
Clever. Creative. Fun. Out There Strategies creates and implements completely customized social media marketing programs to complement their clients’ current marketing strategies. Whether you need daily social media support, content creation, staff training or just a onetime setup of social media accounts, Out There Strategies brings the tools and expertise that best suit the needs of your brand.
What inspired you to start your business? Seeing the gap that needed to be filled in social media marketing. Very few small businesses have the time or resources to devote strictly to social media.
Melissa Casserly
What do you like best about owning a business? The ability to “have it all”! I can set my own schedule, never miss any activities with my children and work with amazing business owners.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Don’t be afraid to charge what you’re worth. If you discount your services, your clients discount their faith in your expertise. How do you keep balance in your life? Saying no. Saying no is saying yes to something more important.
1
Chicago
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
How do you measure success? I measure my success by knowing that I have grown a client’s brand online that has created a buzz.
Specialties: Social Media Marketing and Strategies 312.498.3222, outtherestrategies.com, facebook.com/OutThereStrategies Twitter: @outtherestrat, linkedin.com/in/melissacasserly
2
“Surround yourself with a personal ‘board of directors’: people in your life who support you and your business in a real and honest way.” —Melissa Casserly, Out There Strategies
Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
What are your most popular products or services? Organizing closets, pantries and offices at people’s homes. What makes your business unique? I have a background in graphic design and I incorporate that knowledge into my business. What inspired you to start your business? I realized that organization and helping people transform their lives was a passion of mine.
Jessica Schanberg
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Follow your bliss. Dream big and you can do anything!
Pixel Peony Chicago, Illinois Savvy. Creative. Organized. Pixel Peony has a unique computer-savvy approach to personal organizing and personal assistance. Jessica Schanberg is also an experienced closet stylist. Pixel Peony is an eco-friendly company that promotes a paper-free home environment, donations to local charities and digital solutions to everyday tasks.
1
Chicago
Specialties: Personal Organizing and Assistance 413.717.1121 pixelpeony.tumblr.com facebook.com/pixelpeony Twitter: @pixelpeony
2
Purelement Naturals Chicago, Illinois
What are your most popular products or services? Defend Argan Oil Moisturizer and Glow Face & Body Scrub.
Multifaceted. Unique. Toxin-free. Purelement Naturals develops and distributes skincare products made with organic argan oil and infused with pure essential oils. The company’s approach to natural and toxin-free skincare delivers highly beneficial and lasting results through the use of aromatherapeutic products that nourish the body and mind. All products are currently available online and in select boutiques in Chicago.
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t lose sight of your goal when the times get tough. Being driven and passionate about what you’re doing will get you through anything and everything.
Specialty: Skincare 312.857.8732 purelementnaturals.com facebook.com/PurelementNaturals Twitter: @purelement
What do you CRAVE? The amazing things I have on my vision board, and one day making them a reality.
Photos by Emily J. Rivera Photography
Andriana Pilotto
What is your motto or theme song? Moving right along... I learn quickly from my mistakes, and I’m always thinking about my next move and how that will better position myself and my business.
1
Chicago
2
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
What are your most popular products or services? My most popular products include laser-cut state jewelry, raven necklaces and pins, and faux fur muff hand warmers. The hand warmers are great sellers even in the summer! What tip would you give women who are starting a business? I’d tell any woman who is starting a business to do lots of research about your field beforehand—it will save time and money in the future.
Rebecca George
What do you like best about owning a business? The best part of owning my own business is knowing that the successes are a result of my own hard work. It’s a whole new sense of pride!
Purple and Lime, Inc. Chicago, Illinois Fashionable. Colorful. Well-made. Purple and Lime is a fun and affordable line inspired by Rebecca George’s fashionable vision. Laser-cut acrylic, faux fur and polymer clay are just a few of the materials used to create unique jewelry, women’s wear and accessories! In addition to creating fashion, Rebecca also offers small-business coaching and teaches various courses in Chicago.
1
Chicago
Specialties: Jewelry, Accessories, Clothing, Coaching, Teaching 773.706.0079, purpleandlime.com facebook.com/purpleandlimefashion, Twitter: @purpleandlime linkedin.com/in/rebeccapurpleandlime
2
Rover-Time
Dog Walking & Pet Services
What makes your business unique? I have an open communication style with my clients and, as a result, a partnership is formed to support their pets in living the most content and happy life possible.
Chicago, Illinois Honest. Professional. Community-oriented. Rover-Time provides pet owners with peace of mind, knowledge and a community to plug into. This professional, insured pet service company focuses on quality dog walking, overnight care, coaching and specialty services and pet transportation. They will support your pet’s health, routine and learning development.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? The most successful business people in the world never feel ready; they just go! What is your motto or theme song? David Viscott said, “The purpose of life is to discover your gift. The meaning of life is to give your gift away.” How do you keep balance in your life? I find balance through community with others, my own family and by remaining adaptable and patient.
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Julia Rohan
1
Chicago
Specialties: Dog Walking, Overnight Care, Coaching 773.242.9176, rover-time.com, facebook.com/rovertime Twitter: @Rover_Time, linkedin.com/in/juliarohan
2
Shauna of the Star Chicago, Illinois
What are your most popular products or services? My most popular service is the online, channeled video subscription series. People can receive weekly guidance at a fraction of the cost of one-on-one personal consultation.
Profound. Personal. Private. Shauna of the Star features an online, weekly subscription, video channeled tarot reading series. Shauna Angel Blue has been channeling and giving readings for over twenty years. This new video subscription, developed for savvy and sophisticated lovers of the psychic world, allows for people from all over the world to receive weekly guidance through channeled readings. Shauna offers exclusive and fun interaction with spirit.
Shauna Angel Blue
What inspired you to start your business? I desire to reach a larger audience in a unique, creative and artistic visionary way to change the world, for the empowerment of the individual. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Have patience and hire the best people you can afford.
1
Chicago
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Specialties: Online Channeled Readings 312.593.8887, shaunaofthestar.com Twitter: @ShaunaoftheStar
2
“I love the freedom to create every single day how I wish to live my life.” —Shauna Angel Blue, Shauna of the Star Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
Spark Living Chicago, Illinois
What are your most popular products or services? Items with personality that make you smile. We carry bookends shaped like balloon animals, mugs with handles that look like diamond rings and matryoshka dolls that are actually measuring cups.
Modern. Inspired. Colorful. Spark Living is an online boutique for modern home decor, housewares and gifts. Every item in their curated collection must possess these three traits: usefulness, good design and personality. The store’s name is a nod to the surge of excitement felt when discovering a new item for their store and their focus on smaller, independent designers whose careers are still in the “sparking” stages.
Merrideth Kalil
What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat? Starting the business 100 percent on my own. A partner gives you someone to share the workload with and means you can come up with double the ideas and solutions. What do you wish you’d known before starting your business? Photoshop. And Excel. And someone else who ran an online store. It’s very different than brick and mortar, so finding people who face the same day-to-day challenges isn’t easy.
1
Chicago
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialties: Home Decor, Gifts, Housewares, Accessories sparkliving.com, facebook.com/SparkLiving, Twitter: @SparkLiving
2
“You can’t, and shouldn’t, do everything yourself. Outsource things you don’t have expertise in. It will get done better and faster and, ultimately, will allow you to be more productive.” —Merrideth Kalil, Spark Living
Photo by Amy Boyle Photography
Spire Coaching and Consulting
What makes your business unique? We coach the whole person, not just around your career or your relationships. Every part of your life integrates into every other part, to find your right balance.
Chicago, Illinois Personal. Focused. Motivating. Spire Coaching and Consulting is a full-service life coaching organization with many options to meet various client needs. Spire Coaches help their clients set excellent goals, and then reach their goals quickly by providing clients with strategies, support and structure. Spire clients work with a coach to align their life with their values and priorities, to maximize their fulfillment and leisure time.
What inspired you to start your business? I’ve always been the kind of person people ask for advice. Becoming a certified coach was simply a natural extension of that desire to help others reach their dreams.
Keri Christensen
What do you like best about owning a business? Knowing that I play a part in my clients’ successes is really motivating. How do you measure success? There’s nothing more important than the relationships we build – that’s the true legacy we leave behind
1
Chicago
Lower-left and -right photos by Amy Boyle Photography, upper-right photo by christina noël
Specialties: Personal Coaching 773.398.3696, www.spirecoaches.com facebook.com/spirecoaches, Twitter: @Spirecoaches linkedin.com/company/spire-coaching-and-consulting
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t get stuck in the planning phase. Find a way to get your feet wet without jumping in over your head. What is your motto or theme song? “It’s better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.” —Eleanor Roosevelt What place inspires you? Walking south through Lincoln Park, there’s one turn in the path where you come upon the Chicago skyline. It takes my breath away—human achievement and natural beauty combined. 2
Steel Petal Press Pilsen, Chicago
What are your passions? I love letterpress: the artistry, the history and the community. I also love people, and I value my connections with family, friends and business partners.
Luxurious. Custom. Eco-friendly. Steel Petal Press creates unique, luxurious paper products fusing classic elegance with a vintage, urban twist. Wedding invitations, personalized stationery and greeting cards are artfully letterpress-printed by hand on soft cotton paper using eco-friendly materials and environmentally friendly clean-up practices. Digital printing is also offered as a more budget-friendly option.
What do you like best about owning a business? I love the freedom of being my own boss and the sense of accomplishment that comes with knowing each success is a direct result of my own hard work.
Upper-left and lower-right photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Shayna Norwood
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? It’s going to be difficult. There will be euphoric days and miserable days. But don’t give up! Passion, integrity and persistence can get you where you want to be.
1
Chicago
Specialties: Letterpress, Wedding Stationery, Custom Design By appointment only: 2150 S Canalport Ave, Studio 3C-12, Chicago 773.234.7758, steelpetalpress.com, facebook.com/steelpetalpress Twitter: @steelpetalpress, linkedin.com/in/shaynanorwood
2
Step Out Designs Chicago, Illinois Comfortable. Fashionable. Personal. Step Out Designs is a home-based business specializing in energetic clothing, jewelry and other accessories for all women. Inspiration comes from around the world. Each item is custom-made for many different occasions, ranging from special events to stay-at-home days. There is something for everyone.
Specialties: One-of-a-kind Women’s Clothing and Accessories 847.975.9994 StepOutDesigns.com
What are your most popular products or services? The one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces I make by hand.
Photos by Emily J. Rivera Photography
1
Chicago
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Just start. Even if you have no clue where you want to take your business, or how to get there, pick one thing and just do it. What do you like best about owning a business? Having final say in the creative process.
Shayna Steinberg
Who is your role model or mentor? My parents are my role models as well as my mentors. They each have and continue to run their own businesses through many different stages of their lives. 2
Tania Rodamilans Andersonville, Chicago
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Choose to do something that makes you happy. Dream big, and don’t be afraid to follow your intuition. When the time comes to make changes, embrace them. Don’t give up. What do you like best about owning a business? It is a privilege to wake up every morning knowing you can create something that didn’t exist yesterday. You have the opportunity to shape what your life looks like.
Tania Rodamilans
1
Chicago
How do you relax? Any body of water contains the seed of relaxation—whether it be a bathtub or an ocean. The sound of water helps me forget my long to-do lists.
Upper-left photo and portrait (opposite page) by Julia Franzosa Photography, upper-right (opposite page) and lower-right photos by Jaime Torres
Whimsical. Colorful. Organic. Tania Rodamilans’s style of art and jewelry design is the result of endless exploration and experimentation. Her works are vibrant and playful, blending multiple media, approaches and textures to create pieces that are born of both reality and fantasy. She crafts her paintings so that they reveal more with each added layer and creates original jewelry that is not just an accessory, but a wearable work of art.
Specialties: Mixed Media Painting, Jewelry Design Andersonville Galleria | 5247 N Clark St, Chicago Tin Duck | 4328 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago Fortunate Discoveries | 1022 W Armitage, Chicago 312.933.1333, taniarodamilans.com facebook.com/TaniaRodamilansArtWorks Twitter: @RodamilansTania
2
Tweedle Press Chicago, Illinois
What makes your business unique? More and more, I realize that it’s me. Simultaneously gratifying and terrifying. We’re sustainable and have awesome products, but we share these elements with other businesses. We don’t share me.
Handcrafted. Singular. Real. Tweedle Press is a sustainable letterpress print shop striving to marry contemporary capabilities with an old-fashioned sense of responsibility and service. Every custom invitation and card is letterpress printed, one at a time, using a vintage process and crafted with artistic attention to detail. The resulting works of art run the gamut from nostalgic to modern, rustic to urban, and traditional to punk rock.
What do you like best about owning a business? In theory, I like having control over my own schedule and destiny. Sometimes it feels like the business owns me instead, though, and I have to remember to loosen up.
Photos by Trü Studio, except upper-left photo by Amy Boyle Photography
Nina Interlandi Bell
Specialties: Sustainable Letterpress Printing, Custom Design 773.656.2188, tweedlepress.com, facebook.com/tweedlepress Twitter: @tweedlepress, linkedin.com/in/ninainterlandibell
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? If you’re going to be a business owner, ask yourself if you will enjoy the business aspects of your business—not just working as an employee in your industry.
1
Chicago
2
Young Royal Couture Bucktown/Wicker Park, Chicago Whimsical. Colorful. Trendy. Young Royal Couture (YRC) prides itself on delivering high-quality kids fashions to the unique child who stands out from the masses. YRC is a premier children’s retail boutique offering a variety of clothing, toys, accessories, books, and custom designed shoes for children aged six and under. YRC also specializes in customized footwear as well! Young Royal couture is definitely the place “wear kids feel like royalty!”
What are your passions? I’m from Chicago, born and raised so naturally I have a strong passion for food. Foodie for life! What do you like best about owning a business? The best thing about owning my own business is being my own boss. I enjoy being creative and creating a fun environment for my clients to shop.
Erica James
1
Chicago
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? My tip of advice for any woman starting out is to never give up on dreams, never let anyone tell you that it won’t work or succeed.
Specialties: Children’s Clothing infant–size 6 1750 W North Ave, Chicago, 773.252.4911 youngroyalcouture.com, facebook.com/YoungRoyalCouture Twitter: @youngroyalcouture
2
A Gentle Touch by Sandra
Q&A What makes your business unique? Exceptional service. My expert waxing techniques and relaxing facials are given in a quiet, cozy setting.
5009 Excelsior Blvd, Ste 144, St Louis Park, 952.926.3928
Attentive. Accomplished. Peaceful. For more than 15 years, A Gentle Touch by Sandra has satisfied clients of all ages who want personal, attentive beauty enhancements in a private setting. Known for creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, Sandra applies her keen expertise for waxing and precisely shaping eyebrows, as well as offering a variety of esthetic services and soothing facial treatments. Personal care and affordability keep clients totally satisfied.
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Make sure you have a passion for success and for what you want to do. Never doubt your ability to be successful. What is the biggest perk about owning a small business? While running my own business certainly keeps me busy, I appreciate the feeling of personal freedom and flexibility that comes from being my own boss. The empowerment is wonderful! What is your biggest motivator? The desire to remain successful; to me this means the ability to keep building wonderful relationships with my clients while providing the services they enjoy and that make them feel beautiful. Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
10
What is your personal motto? Exceptionalism in every aspect of life. What do you CRAVE? Health, prosperity, happiness and chocolate!
Sandra Caldwell 11
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
Q&A What makes your business unique? Aagesen Chiropractic integrates many holistic services in each treatment. Our goal is to understand the unique symptoms of each patient, heal their bodies and nurture their spirits. What would you like customers to know about your business? Our clinic not only offers chiropractic care and massage therapy, but we also provide craniosacral therapy, myofasical release and nutritional counseling to help all patients achieve optimal health and wellness.
Aagesen Chiropractic Clinic 5050 West 36th St, Ste 100, St Louis Park, 612.920.1092 aagesenchiro.com, Twitter: @AagesenChiro
What is your biggest motivator? My family and children are my biggest motivators. I want them to know that with hard work, a creative spirit and determination, success is achievable. Dr. Maria Aagesen-Reznecheck
What is your personal motto? Life is truly a blessing. Enjoy each day and be grateful for the many things that are easy to take for granted.
Holistic. Healing. Compassionate. Aagesen Chiropractic Clinic has been practicing chiropractic care and natural healing since 1988. This beautiful, spa-like wellness clinic offers patients a lifetime of good health through chiropractic, massage, acupuncture, physical and occupational therapy. Aagesen Chiropractic is a five-star clinic. They enjoy educating their patients on better health. Everyone from babies to seniors benefits from the natural health care at Aagesen Chiropractic. 12
13
What makes your business unique? Few Twin Cities acupuncturists practice cosmetic acupuncture. Trained and certified in the Mei Zen method of cosmetic acupuncture, I focus on facial points that pull out wrinkles, plump and lift.
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
Q&A
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? That I can take as much time as I need to help a client. Who is your role model or mentor? My grandfather taught me how to have a good sense of humor and have fun with everything. What is your personal motto? People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. Shelley Conn
What do you CRAVE? Good health, olives and dark chocolate.
Acupuncture in the Park 5821 Cedar Lake Rd, St Louis Park, 952.545.2250 acupunctureinthepark.com
Rejuvenating. Calming. Natural. At Acupuncture in the Park, Shelley Conn focuses on women’s health and beauty using cosmetic acupuncture. After repeated treatments, the face glows, fine lines decrease, wrinkles soften, and eye puffiness diminishes while the face and jowls are lifted. A healthy alternative to Botox and surgery, cosmetic acupuncture unveils natural beauty from the inside out! 14
15
What would you like customers to know about your business? From party etiquette to thank you notes, each detail is handled with care and nothing is overlooked. Amy Zaroff Events + Design treats every service as a special service—every time. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? The freedom to make change and be nimble. There is no such thing as a fiveyear plan anymore. I love the ability to innovate and create constant excitement. Who is your role model or mentor? My father. He is passionate and kind and deeply cares for others. Everyday he makes it a priority to help someone in need and often it is done anonymously. Amy Zaroff
Main photo by Kacey Luvi Photography, portrait, right and middle details by Matt Blum Photography and left detail by La Vie Photography
Q&A
Amy Zaroff Events + Design 7179 Washington Ave S, Edina, 952.941.3371 amyzaroff.com, Twitter: @amyzaroff
Perceptive. Visionary. Authentic. As a former television producer and restauranteur, everything Amy Zaroff has done in her career has been focused on producing incredible experiences and making memories. Amy Zaroff Events + Design is in the business of creating life’s most memorable events. As designers and producers, they create distinct event stories through a process that brings your vision to reality. 16
17
Ann and Jack’s Vintage Jewelry 1014 Main St, Hopkins, 952.938.4220 annandjacks.com
Ever-changing. Experienced. Unconventional. This dynamic duo travels the country to bring back fabulous vintage jewelry, fashion to fine, at affordable prices. Along with carrying one of the largest vintage engagement ring selections around—couples flock to find their oneof-a-kind diamond rings—Ann and Jackie are buying vintage costume, sterling and gold jewelry daily. You never know what you might find!
Q&A What makes your business unique? The sheer quantity and quality of merchandise is unmatched in the Twin Cities.
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t start your business hoping to be the biggest and best... start with your focus on working harder than anyone else and you will be far more successful.
Ann Eliason and Jackie Weeks 18
Photos by B Johnson Photos
What would you like customers to know about your business? The inventory is constantly changing since we are buying new pieces everyday. We have unbeatable diamond prices. We have vintage mountings available for remounting. We bring New York fashion to Minnesota.
19
Photos by Patrick Clancey except left detail by Phil Ladisa
Q&A What makes your business unique? I believe that interior design is a necessity, not a luxury. All of my services are priced so that they are affordable for a wide variety of clientele. What can’t you simply live without in your business? Chic shoes, roomy tote bags, stacks of shelter magazines and a good tape measure! What is your biggest motivator? When I finish a project and know that the client’s life has improved due to the space we have designed together. This makes the day-to-day stresses worth it!
Annie Ballantine Designs
Annie Ballantine
What do you CRAVE? Good design is about living a comfortable life. In life, I crave a soft bed, fabulous art, soft music and gorgeous letterpress cards.
651.472.3518 annieballantine.com
Warm. Stylish. Affordable. Annie Ballantine Designs is a full-service interior design studio specializing in affordable design services for residential clients. Annie and her staff will ensure that the design process is fun, enjoyable and never stressful, so you can relax and enjoy the transformation. Services are always tailored to meet client needs. Annie was selected to decorate the White House for the holidays in 2011.
20
21
Art of Optiks 747 E Lake St, Wayzata, 952.404.2020 artofoptiks.com
Modern. Unique. Advanced. Art of Optiks is a purveyor of unique eyewear and advanced eye care in Wayzata, Minn. They have been providing outstanding customer service, amazing, cutting-edge eye exams, and outstanding eyewear for 10 years.
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? We put the customer first. Excellent customer service is the foundation of our business and state-of-the art products and services are the cornerstone. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? I love being in charge of my own destiny. Knowing that I hold the keys to my future is very empowering. What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Have a rainy day fund. Photos by B Johnson Photos
22
What is your biggest motivator? My desire to always be the best at what I do.
Stephanie Haenes
What do you CRAVE? I crave quiet and mindfulness in my daily life. 23
B Johnson Photos 612.618.2022 bjohnsonphotos.com, Twitter: @bjohnsondesign
Energetic. Fearless. Professional. Brenda has the ability to freeze-frame beauty in motion—she’s captured everything from the mossy cobblestones of Via Santo Stefano, to mouthwatering cheeseburgers, to beautiful, cozy interiors... and everything in between. Brenda’s passion lies in the area of destination, food and fine art photography, but her professional photography services cover the complete spectrum of professional photography needs.
Q&A What makes your business unique? My 20+ years in the commercial advertising and graphic design business, and the understanding that the uniqueness of an image plays a major role in keeping clients satisfied. What can’t you simply live without in your business? My camera, dark chocolate, and a glass (bottle!) of thick, full-bodied red wine. What is the best advice you’ve been given? Be tenacious. Never burn bridges. Keep your eye on the goal. Photos by B Johnson Photos
24
What is your biggest motivator? The excitement and challenge of the next assignment... how will I compose the next perfect shot? Brenda Johnson 25
What would you like customers to know about your business? Our selection of clothing, shoes and accessories can’t be beat. We also carry many brands that are organic and made in America—some are even made here in Minnesota.
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
Q&A
What can’t you simply live without in your business? Fishing line for all of our eye-catching window displays, Pandora for some great tunes, and a camera for snapping photos of kids wearing Baby Banou items in the shop. What is your biggest motivator? Finding a way to be both happy and successful, while contributing to my community.
Darya Lucas
Baby Banou 792 Grand Ave, St Paul, 651.340.0062 babybanou.com, Twitter: @babybanou
Adorable. Charming. Unique. Baby Banou is a one-of-a-kind children’s clothing boutique that offers contemporary and traditional styles for infants and toddlers. This Grand Avenue gem features a remarkable lineup of brands and a variety of styles. Locally owned and operated, Baby Banou has a knowledgeable staff and welcoming atmosphere. Customers can peruse the fabulous selection while kids are enamored with the magnetic boards, fish tanks and pompon chandeliers. 26
27
What makes your business unique? My firmly held conviction that every woman can make her business whatever she dreams it can be. I empower my clients to succeed by giving them practical knowledge and tailored pragmatic tools. What would you like customers to know about your business? With my insight, you get clarity. With my passion, you get encouragement. With my tools, you create your own success!
Portrait by Stacy Dunlap additional photos by Darin Back Photography
Q&A
What can’t you simply live without in your business? The wonderful pickupthephoneIneedyounow women in my life who truly and deeply support one another.
Kathy Hanson
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? “Don’t try to change the haters—you aren’t the jackass whisperer.” —Scott Stratten What is your biggest motivator? I get to encourage women every day to believe in themselves by telling them what can happen, not what cannot happen.
28
Backpocket Strategy 952.451.0658 backpocket.biz, Twitter: @backpocketbbf
Perceptive. Passionate. Effective Kathy Hanson of Backpocket Strategy has mentored and coached entrepreneurs all over the country to guide their businesses to the next level. Armed with an MBA and years of experience working with Fortune 100 companies, she successfully ventured out on her own, gaining national TV and press coverage. Kathy brings a clear-eyed view with real world practicality to her clients. Kathy is the secret weapon you just have to have in your back pocket. Pun intended! 29
Photos by B Johnson Photos
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? Our sales are held the second Wednesday through the following Saturday of each month, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily. We are also open on Sundays and Thursday evenings during warmer months. Check our Facebook page often for additional dates over holidays and for citywide events! What or who inspires you? Window displays at LadurÊe, Isle sur la Sorgue flea market, and the wonderful, creative vendors and artisans who sell their goods at my shop.
The Bee Cottage
Jennifer Finlay
What do you CRAVE? Cane back chairs, gilt mirrors, pistachio macarons, Veuve Clicquot, a morning peek on dailymail.co.uk, and the beauty and tranquility of my childhood home on the farm.
441 Second St, Excelsior, 612.454.0030 shopthebeecottage.com
Surprising. Charming. Inspiring. Nestled in the heart of Excelsior on the banks of Lake Minnetonka, The Bee Cottage delights the senses with their monthly mix of old and new, vintage, repurposed, and flea market finds that are guaranteed to decorate your home in a delightful fashion. You will be inspired by the fresh and imaginative themes in each room of this quaint, historic house. The Bee Cottage is open just one weekend a month.
30
31
What can’t you simply live without in your business? My sister, a knife and the sewing machine.
Photos by Darin Back Photography
Q&A What is the best advice you’ve been given? Stay true to your designs and don’t undervalue yourselves. What is your biggest motivator? Having our bags mistaken for other high-end designers and trying to fulfill our endless sketchbook of ideas.
Jennifer Wight and Julie Driscoll
What or who inspires you? The Austrian annual event Almabtrieb, an alpine fall festival, is a tradition of parading cows from the mountains to the village for winter. Each cow is lavishly adorned with colorful headdresses and bells. We were inspired by the vibrant palette and realized we could put a stylish twist on this unforgettable experience.
Belle Vache 952.461.1918 mysisterandiinc.com
Magnifique. Irresistible. Exquisite. Belle Vache, French for “beautiful cow,” and Furbellish are stunning collections made with 100 percent genuine leather and fur. Designers Jennifer and Julie carefully select the finest patent leather, hair-on cowhide, exotic skin and genuine fur for their handcrafted collections made in Minnesota. Each original bag, tote and accessory is a remarkable work of art inspired by the authentic beauty and variations of the natural materials. 32
33
Photos by B Johnson Photos except portrait courtesy of Bespoke Hair Artisans
Q&A What makes your business unique? What makes our business unique is the technical talent and experience of our team, our attention to every detail and our luxurious atmosphere. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Seeing our vision come alive. Creating insanely great experiences for our guests. Unlocking our team’s creative potential and fostering an environment that encourages innovation and allows it to flourish. What is your personal motto? There is no assembly line for individuality and no templates for style. No one look fits all. Beauty is not off the rack. Personal style is our passion.
Bespoke Hair Artisans
Lisa Williams and Margaret Menke Ayache
3918 W 49 1/2 St, Edina, 952.224.4062 bespokehairartisans.com, Twitter: @BespokeHA
Luxurious. Approachable. Inspiring. Bespoke Hair Artisans is inspired by the English tradition of bespoke tailoring, creating custom-made, one-of-a-kind style created for each individual. They are a full-service, boutique salon with a relaxing and inspiring setting. They look, listen and then craft a look that suits the individual and heightens the natural beauty that every person possesses.
34
35
Bibelot 1082 Grand Ave, St Paul, 651.222.0321 2276 Como Ave, St Paul, 651.646.5651 4315 Upton Ave S, Minneapolis, 612.925.3175 300 E Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, 612.379.9300 bibelotshops.com
Inspired. Imaginative. Irresistible. Bibelot offers a wide-ranging collection of all things delightful: fun and functional gifts, women’s clothing, jewelry, toys, stationery and home accents, all thoughtfully chosen and artfully displayed. Whenever possible, emphasis is placed on selecting products that are locally made and designed. Always fresh and current, Bibelot has been delighting customers for 45 years, leading the way in Twin Cities retail.
Q&A What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Being able to contribute to the larger community has been a priority for me as an entrepreneur; I love knowing that Bibelot is making a significant difference in a variety of ways.
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
36
What is your biggest motivator? My initial motivation was to create a job that incorporated my interests and skills. Continuing motivation comes in offering my staff similar opportunities, and in exciting and serving Bibelot customers. What or who inspires you? I am grateful for all that has been. Working with Bibelot’s talented and dedicated staff, who strive for excellence every day, continues to inspire and bring me joy. Roxy Freese 37
Bombshell 794 Grand Ave, St Paul, 651.330.2605 bomb-shell-boutique.com
Glamorous. Vivacious. Inclusive. Bombshell is for the stylish, sophisticated woman who wears a size 14 to 24. Located on Grand Avenue in St. Paul, the boutique has clothing for cocktail parties, brunch with the girls and, of course, date nights. Bombshell offers warm, personal service in a luxurious environment and was highlighted as one of the best plus-size boutiques in the country by Lucky magazine in July 2011.
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? You’ll be pleasantly surprised when shopping at Bombshell. Instead of finding one piece that sort of works, you’ll have to choose between four or five gorgeous, well-made, perfectly fitting outfits! What do you CRAVE? Proper gin martinis, French perfume and cabana boys.
Denise Alden 38
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
What makes your business unique? We carry designer lines that are not found anywhere else in the Twin Cities. Our mission is to show you how fabulous you are!
39
Calhoun Bike Tours and Rental 1622 W Lake St, Minneapolis, 612.827.3281 calhounrental.com, Twitter: @ridempls
Funky. Safe. Adventurous. You’ve never experienced Minneapolis like this! Discover why Minneapolis was selected “Best Biking City in the USA” by Bicycling magazine as you pedal the bike trails of this beautiful city. A Calhoun Bike Tour is the perfect activity for a family reunion, corporate event or convention activity. Whether you’re team building or just enjoying a family day, they’ll design the perfect bike tour to suit your needs.
What makes your business unique? Calhoun Bikes is a landmark destination, located in Uptown for more than 30 years. We are located one block from the Chain of Lakes and hundreds of miles of bike paths. What would you like customers to know about your business? We were the first to offer bike tours of the Twin Cities area. We are a locally owned, family business that promotes biking as a healthy, fun family activity for all ages. What can’t you simply live without in your business? New specialized bikes. We have a great location in Uptown close to the Midtown Greenway. What is your personal motto? Live large and embrace adventure. Nancy Anderson 40
Photos by B Johnson Photos except middle detail courtesy of Calhoun Bike Tours and Rental
Q&A
41
What makes your business unique? As we age, we need a different kind of movement. Centerspace Pilates Studio provides a friendly community of likeminded people who are interested in living a long, healthy life.
Photos by B Johnson Photos
Q&A
What would you like customers to know about your business? In 10 sessions you will feel the difference, in 20 sessions you will see the difference and in 30 sessions you will have a new body. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Creative freedom. What or who inspires you? Travel.
Nancy Anderson
Centerspace Pilates 3302 W 44th St, Minneapolis, 612.822.4776 centerspacepilates.com, Twitter: @centerspacemn
Friendly. Informative. Fun. Joseph Pilates once said, “You are as young as your spine is flexible.� Centerspace Pilates offers a variety of movement enhancing programs. Their monthly workshops teach practical information about exercise, health and lifestyle that improve the quality of everyday life. Exercise is the most effective anti-aging antidote and emotional tonic ever discovered. Centerspace Pilates Studio is conveniently located in beautiful Linden Hills, on the border of Minneapolis and Edina. 42
43
Cocoa & Fig 651 Nicollet Mall (Gaviidae Common, Skyway Level, Saks Wing), Minneapolis, 612.333.1485 cocoaandfig.com, Twitter: @cocoaandfig
Tasty. Fresh. Beautiful. Cocoa & Fig creates delicious and eye-catching dessert designs. Their Gaviidae Common store provides an array of sweet treats for downtown Minneapolis’ most discerning palettes. In addition, they work individually with clients to create customized desserts for life’s greatest occasions. You can be confident that Cocoa & Fig will create a perfectly beautiful and delicious addition to your wedding, corporate event or any gathering.
Q&A Main photo and portrait by Red Ribbon Studio, left detail by Jeff Loves Jessica Photography, middle detail by Macemon Photography and right detail by Shelly Mosman Photography
44
What would you like customers to know about your business? We are passionate about each and every dessert we make. We bake everything from scratch with the best ingredients we can find. What can’t you simply live without in your business? Butter—everything tastes better with butter! What is your personal motto? The greatest blessings come to those who freely give and expect nothing in return. What do you CRAVE? To always be challenged—it’s what keeps me learning and growing.
Laurie Pyle 45
Main photo by Darin Back Photography additional photos by Eliesa Johnson of Photogen Inc.
Cooks of Crocus Hill
Q&A What makes your business unique? We offer cooking classes, culinary events and interesting culinary tools. What would you like customers to know about your business? We test, taste or sample everything we offer in our stores. Everything. Who is your role model or mentor? Martha Kaemmer. Her passion for sharing the culinary experience has a hand in all our work. What do you CRAVE? A consistent sense of wellbeing and a manicure that won’t chip.
Marie Dwyer
877 Grand Ave, St Paul, 651.228.1333 3925 W 50th St, Edina, 952.285.1903 cooksofcrocushill.com
Authentic. Experiential. Vibrant. Cooks of Crocus Hill is a locally owned, independent culinary educator and retailer. They have two cooking schools and two retail stores well stocked with culinary equipment, kitchen tools, books and packaged food. Their environments are grounded in creating and sharing authentic culinary experiences, because “Life Happens in the Kitchen!”
46
47
Coquette: French Style 8920 250th St E, Elko New Market, 612.270.6081 coquettemn.wordpress.com, Twitter: @Coquettemn
Charmant. Authentique. Romantique. If you crave unique, quality gifts, Coquette is your destination! Gather your friends and make the trip to this charming, ever-changing boutique. Featuring French specialties, including gourmet foods, jewelry, art and home decor— there is something for everyone. Many items cannot be found anywhere else in the US! You have your own style. Find your inspiration here.
Q&A
What would you like customers to know about your business? This is a destination shop located on the Lakeville/Elko border. Coquette is open the first Thursday through Sunday of each month. See the Coquette website for the most up-to-date information.
Traci Nelson 48
What is your biggest motivator? The thrill of the hunt! The challenge of finding interesting objects to delight customers, getting them to my shop and displaying them in creative ways is exhilarating.
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
What makes your business unique? Showcasing exceptional products from small companies in France, there are treasures to fit everyone’s style. Coquette is open one four-day weekend per month, allowing time to scout fabulous new additions. We are also available by appointment.
49
What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Be bold and confident! Cinda Pfeil of Style-Infused Living
Como Park Conservatory by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
Daily Whip
Q&A
dailywhip.com, Twitter: @dailywhip
Sassy. Inspiring. Motivational. Erika coaches and inspires smart businesswomen all over the world to empower themselves with her easy-to-follow, hard-to-forget signature 30day course, The Morning Whip. Every business woman has a superhero inside her—Erika brings her out so you can conquer the world!
What makes your business unique? I teach women entrepreneurs how to turn five-figure jobs into six-figure businesses and six-figure businesses into seven-figure empires. What would you like customers to know about your business? I’m the author of “Revenue, Results & Red Carpet Dreams” and the forthcoming book “Think Like A Stripper: How To Hustle Your Business Like You Mean It.” What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Do The Morning Whip. It will start your day at 90 mph! What is the best advice you’ve been given? Ask for help.
What or who inspires you? I cannot stand to see one more smart, motivated woman crying in the bathroom (wrecking her Dior mascara), because she’s not fulfilling her business potential.
Erika Lyremark 52
Photos by B Johnson Photos
Who is your role model or mentor? Kathy Hanson.
53
What is your biggest motivator? My customers. I love to hear the stories about how my jewelry encourages them or how the gift brought joy to their daughter, friend or mother. What is your personal motto? “Hold fast to your beliefs... respecting the process as much as the product.” —K. Pabst
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
Q&A
What or who inspires you? An evening at the opera or symphony. A walk somewhere filled with beauty. Great song. Beautiful dance. Essentially, I am inspired when I enjoy the fruits of others’ creativity. What do you CRAVE? An afternoon with nowhere to be. Free time that is truly free nourishes my soul. Deirdre Olson
Deirdre & Company 612.331.2482 deirdreandcompany.com, Twitter: @DeiandCo
Joyful. Inspirational. Encouraging. Creating joyful gifts and jewelry celebrating life and faith is the driving passion behind Deirdre & Company. Handmade pieces created in sterling silver, pewter, 14K gold, and colorful glass beads are designed to encourage you and those you love. Client favorites include personalized jewelry and custom logo pieces. Deirdre & Company invites you to experience their collection of simple, unique and stylish pieces.
54
55
Photos by Mike Howard from Blu Dot Photography
Q&A What makes your business unique? Clever displays and products change weekly. A new local artist is featured every month! Affordable prices redefine what it means to go “boutique shopping.” What would you like customers to know about your business? Design Vertigo comes to you in three parts: retail, creative services and events. Enjoy everything Design Vertigo has to offer, including shopping, fashion shows, art classes and interior design for your home or business. What is the best advice you’ve been given? “When you think you’re working hard, just work a little bit harder.” —Tracy Luther, as quoted by Del Howard
Design Vertigo
Amanda Wilde
2570 Seventh Ave E, North St Paul, 651.770.1901 designvertigo.net, Twitter: @DesignVertigo1
Inspired. Clever. Refreshing. Design Vertigo is an inspired shop located just 10 minutes from downtown, in the charming suburb of North Saint Paul. DV prides itself on a unique selection of products for both you and your home. Each piece of locally made art, women’s fashion, accessories, and gift items are hand-selected to ensure a high level of style and uniqueness, as well as a balance between quality and affordability.
56
57
Edina Skin Care Specialists 7450 France Ave S, Ste 230, Edina, 952.920.5521 edinaskincare.com
Experienced. Innovative. Caring. Edina Skin Care Specialists, located in the offices of MMK Plastic Surgery, is now 15 years old and boasts the most combined years of aesthetician expertise of any medical skin care practice in the Twin Cities. Built with a foundational focus on a customer’s individual needs, Edina Skin Care Specialists is forward-thinking, keeping a finger on the pulse of industry developments in order to provide the best service possible.
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? We are here to work with our customers to achieve their most beautiful skin, no matter their age or skin type. What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Trust your instincts.
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
58
What is the biggest perk about owning a small business? I really enjoy the flexibility that owning my own business affords. With our size, we’re very nimble, which allows us to adapt to new trends quickly.
Cathleen Olson
What is your biggest motivator? Meeting a new client with an unresolved skin issue and providing the care and treatment necessary to turn them into a happy, satisfied customer. 59
Photos by Darin Back Photography
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? Our European antiques are purchased mostly from France, Belgium and The Netherlands. The reproduction furniture includes lines such as Baker, Hickory Chair and Pearson. Our unique home accessories fill a niche in the home market. Who is your role model or mentor? I am smitten with the Queen of England! What is your personal motto? Be yourself, follow your dreams and passion, laugh a lot and enjoy every day—it is truly a gift. Always say, “Thank you.”
EuroNest
What or who inspires you? Inspiration comes from being creative, being smart at running a business and sticking to the core of the brand. Lori Anderson
5700 W 36th St, Minneapolis, 952.929.2927 euro-nest.com, Twitter: @EuroNest
Authentic. Sustainable. Unique. EuroNest is a premier boutique furniture retailer in the Twin Cities. Their talented interior designers create design plans for homes using one-of-akind European pieces, quality American-made reproduction furniture and gorgeous home accessories. EuroNest designs homes to be a unique reflection of the owners and how they live, as well as warm and comfortable.
60
61
What makes your business unique? Our philosophy derives from knowing that when we make people feel beautiful, they act in beautiful ways. We set ego aside to strive for authentic beauty.
Photos by Shari Fleming Photography
Q&A What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Living my dharma and enhancing people’s lives by connecting with them and caring for others. I love learning about life through others’ willingness to share their time and stories. What is your personal motto? Be honest with yourself and others. Take care of yourself, because the more you do, the more you can give. Play like a child as often as possible.
Leah Simon-Clarke
Extrados 4279 Sheridan Ave S, Minneapolis, 612.920.0051 extrados.com
Classic. Current. Purposeful. Extrados has been providing superb service in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas for seven years. Extrados has cultivated a team who have an excellent ability to tap into your inner beauty. Extrados cares about getting to know what makes you shine. Their strong creative ability, ethics and dedication to caring about each individual is what allows you to walk out feeling your personal best.
62
63
The Fabuliss Style Group 612.554.4629 fabuliss.com, Twitter: @fabuliss
Empowering. Effortless. Essential. The Fabuliss Style Group is an image makeover team that specializes in personalized head-to-toe transformations. Packages, services and products enhance confidence for career changes, professional spotlight moments, seasonal updates, life milestones and special events. Fabuliss consistently exceeds client expectations with sessions ranging from private appointments to group events.
Q&A What makes your business unique? Each client experience is tailored to individual needs, expectations and aspirations with an emphasis on service, quality and enhancing natural beauty.
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Be passionate, make a difference, become irreplaceable and be yourself. What is your personal motto? Do more of what makes you happy.
Owner Sasha Westin with Connie Schmidt and Lucille Pew 64
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
What would you like customers to know? We see immense potential in everyone and consistently promote each client to new levels of confidence.
65
Photos by Darin Back Photography
Q&A What makes your business unique? Farmer’s Hat Productions was created to fill an unmet need for young children by providing resources that expose them to the diversity of the real world on many levels. What would you like customers to know about your business? It’s more than a business... it’s a passion. We are devoted to creating teachable moments for children, and building their self-esteem as they identify with and relate to our characters.
Farmer’s Hat Productions 612.333.1610 burburandfriends.com, Twitter: @BurBursFriends
Empowering. Educational. Engaging. Farmer’s Hat Productions is committed to “Growing Kids Through Diverse Learning Experiences.” Their unique Bur Bur & Friends line of award-winning children’s books and products was designed to build kids’ self esteem while teaching them about being active through sports and outdoor exploration. The company has also worked to create awareness about physical/health challenges that some children face, and to teach kids about real-life experiences. 66
What is the best advice you’ve been given? Follow your passion. Don’t be afraid of rejection or of asking for help. Be persistent and have follow-through.
JoAnne Pastel and Kakie Fitzsimmons
What or who inspires you? Our characters are based on real-life children, including our own. As they learn, so do we! They teach us what really matters, which gives us the motivation to keep pressing forward. What do you CRAVE? For our efforts to make a difference in the lives of children and families.
67
Feather Blue Studios 651.489.8281 featherbluestudios.com
Model Integrity modelintegrity.com
Modern. Vibrant. Captivating. Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios specializes in modern portrait art, fashion photography and commercial projects, in-studio or on-location. Child and family photos are vibrant and expressive; high school senior sessions are fun, innovative, and fashion-forward. The studio’s distinctive Model Integrity division focuses on helping aspiring models of all ages get started in the local talent industry.
Q&A What makes your business unique? My personal, artistic eye and my willingness to go above and beyond for my clients. Also the studio’s collection of stylish patterned backgrounds that will make your neighbor (and your Christmas card list) jealous!
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
68
What would you like customers to know about your business? Photography goes way beyond taking pictures. My job involves creative vision, intelligent in-the-moment decision-making and genuine client connections. I create modern art, lasting heirlooms and powerful icons. What is your personal motto? Life’s perfect moments are now.
Shannon Tacheny
What do you CRAVE? Chai tea. Dark chocolate. Authentic relationships. 69
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? The most satisfying part of being an entrepreneur is developing and maintaining ongoing relationships with my customers.
Photos by B Johnson Photos
Q&A What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Running a business is similar to playing a competitive game; you can’t win without good defense. You must constantly review expenses, so you don’t get out-played and end up losing. What is your personal motto? When you don’t want to do the registry... come to Fleurish!
Lindi Dillon
Fleurish 701 E Lake St, Wayzata, 952.476.2296 fleurishllp.com
Exceptional. Charming. Local. Fleurish began by creating custom holiday gift baskets for corporate clients. In 2007, Fleurish opened a retail location in Wayzata and expanded their product line to include personalized stationery, invitations, monogram gifts and an extensive line of award-winning gourmet foods and tableware. Fleurish strives to celebrate and passionately support local vendors. They have become a premier shopping destination for specialty gifts for every occasion. 70
71
Photos by Stephanie Colgan Photography except middle detail by Mimi Holliday
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? Flirt has been a top five finalist the past two years for the national Best of Intima Award! What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? My “job” is not work. It’s what I do for fun. What is the biggest perk about owning a small business? Flexibility. Who is your role model or mentor? Myself. I set my goals and I make them happen. What is your personal motto? If you are going to do something, you might as well take the time to do it right.
Flirt Boutique
Jessica Gerard
177 Snelling Ave N, St Paul, 651.698.3692 flirt-boutique.com
Glamorous. Luxurious. Playful. Flirt is a sexy-sweet lingerie boutique inspired by vintage Hollywood glamor and pin-up girls. With bras ranging in size from A to E, Flirt fills the niche for quality lingerie in the Twin Cities. Whether choosing everyday bras and panties or glamorous silk gowns, you’ll feel fancier—and flirtier—which is the whole idea!
72
73
French Meadow Bakery & Cafe 2610 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, 612.870.7855 frenchmeadowcafe.com
Fresh. Eclectic. Organic. Since 1984, French Meadow embodied everything that is real about food. They championed organic and promoted sustainable agriculture, fair trade and local farmers before it was popular. French Meadow makes and serves from-scratch, fresh food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They grind Wild Acres turkey fresh daily for the popular Turkey Burger served on a 100 percent sprouted organic bun. Although “Best Vegetarian Restaurant” and the “PETA” Award are familiar honors for French Meadow, customers also adore their sustainably sourced, hormone-free bacon, bison, grass-fed beef, organic chicken, fresh wild-caught fish and lamb.
Q&A What makes your business unique? Named by Bon Appetit as one of the best bread bakeries in the US, twice! We were the first organic bakery in the United States. Our outdoor 90-seat patio dining is in demand for breakfast, lunch and dinner from spring until late fall—pretty fabulous!
Lynn Gordon 74
What can’t you live without? Our customers can’t seem to live without our gluten-free options, coffee, Pretty in Pink Gluten-free Chocolate Layer Cake, Crab Cake Eggs Benedict, handmade pasta, Fish Tacos and seasonal and local ingredients.
Photos by B Johnson Photos
What would you like customers to know about your business? Our mood! We are laid back, fun, unpretentious, confident, healthy and eco-minded. Our bartender Gretchin jazzes up the place with her exuberance for drink orders. Come check us out!
75
Fusion LifeSpa 18142 Minnetonka Blvd, Deephaven, 952.345.3335 fusionlifespa.com
Authentic. Dynamic. Holistic. Fusion LifeSpa provides health, beauty and rejuvenation in one inspired dwelling. Part natural health clinic, part spa, they offer the finest in holistic beauty services and time-honored health treatments from highly trained practitioners. The Fusion Skin Care line represents the highest level of pure, results-oriented skin care by combining the finest botanical ingredients and the latest technology.
Q&A What makes your business unique? Our combination of natural health care, holistic spa treatments and highperformance skin care services. What would you like customers to know about your business? Fusion LifeSpa was designed as an eco-friendly spa with low VOC paints and cork flooring. We source and create pure, result-oriented products that do not contain parabens or phthalates.
Photos by Darin Back Photography
76
What is your personal motto? One of our family values is “Dance like no one is watching.” It is so important to be authentic—to be free to be your true self. What do you CRAVE? Uncluttered thoughts—free space. Donna Duffy 77
Gallery 360 3011 W 50th St, Minneapolis, 612.925.2400 gallery360mpls.com
Original. Local. Artisan. Gallery 360 is a female-owned and operated gallery in the southwest area of Minneapolis, featuring a unique selection of fine art, jewelry, clothing and handmade goods. This passionate crew of women work to recreate the gallery every six weeks to offer the finest selection of local and national talents.
Q&A What makes your business unique? We are a retail-based gallery that works with both emerging and mid-career artistic talents under one roof, creating a unique selection to the area.
What can’t you simply live without in your business? Jewelry, jewelry, jewelry! We work with some of the country’s most talented jewelry artists, both local and national.
Merry Beck 78
Photos by Louisa Podlich
What would you like customers to know about your business? Our tagline is “art in every degree,” which is fitting for an environment that celebrates all art forms and strives to stay cutting-edge and original.
79
What makes your business unique? Having the ability to assess and quickly identify the needs and wants of my clients after the initial consultation.
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? The end result saves my clients time, money and creates true peace of mind. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? The reward of working with a diverse clientele and watching their habits evolve into healthier lifestyles. I have the ability to share what I know with others. What is the best advice you’ve been given? Don’t limit yourself.
Vasilia Pasalis Sedgwick
Who is your role model or mentor? My grandmothers. They were women of strength, grace and courage. What is your personal motto? When your personal spaces are pulled together, you have more control and clarity in your life. Less is more.
80
Get Organized Inc. 507.319.8874 getorganizedmn.com
Practical. Efficient. Trusted. Get Organized Inc. collaborates with the client to create personalized organizational systems according to what fits their busy lifestyle. Professional Organizer Vasilia Sedgwick transforms residential and small business environments into well-functioning spaces with a flair of aesthetic appeal.
81
Gianni’s Steakhouse 635 Lake St E, Wayzata, 952.404.1100 giannis-steakhouse.com
Mouthwatering. Delectable. Scrumptious. Gianni’s serves prime steaks and fresh seafood in a casual setting on Lake Minnetonka. Gianni’s provides the perfect vibrant atmosphere to enjoy a cocktail or choose a drink from an extensive list of imported and domestic wines. Enjoy their beautiful outdoor patio seating during Minnesota’s gorgeous spring, summer and early fall. Boaters have loved Gianni’s extensive Dockside To Go menu for years as a fabulous way to enjoy an elegant meal while on the lake!
Q&A Portrait by B Johnson Photos, additional photos courtesy of Gianni’s Steakhouse
82
What makes your business unique? Our great selection of prime beef and fresh seafood, impeccable service and an energetic atmosphere from lunch through late-night dinners. I take great pride in ensuring my guests have a wonderful experience when dining with us. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Controlling your own destiny. You reap the rewards of hard work. Nothing makes me happier than hearing my lunch and dinner guests tell me how much they enjoyed their meal. What is your biggest motivator? My business is an extension of my home, I love hosting friends and I get to do it everyday—and I don’t have to cook and wash the dishes. Terri Huml 83
What makes your business unique? My business is a photography business run by a woman, for women. I have a coop gallery/studio that is available for shoots as well. What is the best advice you’ve been given? If you can dream it, you can achieve it. All you have to do is follow your dreams. Who is your role model or mentor? My role model is my mother. If it was not for her, I would not be where I am today. I have much to thank her for.
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography except portrait courtesy of Giliane
Q&A
What is your personal motto? Stand up for what you believe in, even if it means standing alone.
Giliane E. Mansfeldt
What do you CRAVE? Happiness, laughing as much as possible and, above all else, love.
Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography 612.387.6181 giliane-e-mansfeldtphotography.com, Twitter: @GEMPhoto326
Creative. Innovative. Respectful. Giliane E. Mansfeldt’s goal is to inspire change and challenge social norms using only her camera. While classically trained in fine art photography, Giliane felt there was an under-representation of photographers supporting women and women-owned businesses. Giliane has dedicated her skills to supporting women clients and women-owned businesses, charities, nonprofits and clubs. 84
85
GirlmeetsGeek
Q&A
361.433.5388 girlmeetsgeek.com, Twitter: @girlmeetsgeek
What makes your business unique? GirlmeetsGeek is all about passion. I analyze, define, tweak and ultimately help you succeed online with your most passionate and authentic self.
Engaging. Intelligent. Heartfelt. Kate-Madonna Hindes is an industry leader, national trainer and author on emotional integrity and authenticity in today’s handheld and online media. Notably, she sits on the coaching panel for Keith Ferrazzi’s Relationship Academy alongside Chris Brogan and Tony Hsieh. Either in an auditorium setting or one-on-one, Kate-Madonna excels at simplifying mobile advertising and social media in a way companies truly understand.
What can’t you simply live without in your business? I’m currently in a very successful relationship with my smartphone. I love the functionality and being able to communicate without missing a beat.
Main photo courtesy of GirlMeetsGeek, additional photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
86
What is the best advice you’ve been given? Someone once told me, “Be Teflon.” By allowing nothing to stick to us and leave a mark, we cultivate knowledge from our experiences without bitterness. What is the biggest perk about owning a small business? I have the privilege of standing in front of Fortune 100 CEOs and those I once only read about. It’s an incredible honor. What is your personal motto? I have a Rule of Three for social media: be authentic, be original and bring those online connections offline—that’s where the true magic happens.
Kate-Madonna Hindes 87
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
Q&A What makes your business unique? We are more than just hair care. We inspire a lifestyle choice for women and men everywhere who seek to be beautiful—inside and out. What would you like customers to know about your business? I am a local salon owner, hairstylist, and wife of a two-time cancer survivor. When I couldn’t find “clean” products that delivered the results I was accustomed to, I created them! What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Enjoy the journey. The final destination is fluid and will change as you change. Be willing to adapt and roll with whatever challenges arise. And have fun!
Greenbody Greenplanet 888.201.8608 greenbodygreenplanet.com, Twitter: @gbgplanet
Hairs to You Salon
Lorri Weisen
1603 W County Road C, Roseville, 651.628.0286 hairs2yousalon.com, Twitter: @hairs2you
Eco-active. Conscious. Beautiful. Greenbody Greenplanet is the hair care line you’ve been searching for! Just ask the customers at their flagship salon, Hairs to You. They offer zerotoxin, low-environmental impact, 100 percent certified organic plant-based ingredients that are deeply nourishing, color-protecting and safe for you. The rich, creamy lather and soothing aroma is sure to impress, and the results will captivate you, leaving you to wonder how you ever showered without it! 88
89
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
Q&A What makes your business unique? No doubt, the expertise. Happy Couple gifts are not only beautiful, they are wise. They are not only witty, but inspiring. They are not only fun, they’re educational (but without the homework). What would you like customers to know about your business? As a relationships expert, I’ve been featured on Oprah Radio, the national CBS “Early Morning Show,” in Cosmo magazine (often!), and given multiple dozens of media interviews. What can’t you simply live without in your business? A husband with a great sense of humor (and a really cool commitment to our 25 years of happy-coupledom).
Happy Couple Company
Carol Bruess, Ph.D
612.840.3501 happycouplecompany.com
Wise. Inspiring. Happy. Need the perfect but non-registry wedding or shower gift? Know a newly engaged couple? Want to acknowledge the magical, mundane qualities of your own partner? Happy Couple Company is your source for the hippest, smartest gifts to celebrate relationships. Created by Dr. Carol Bruess, co-author of the nationally recognized and award-winning book, “What Happy Couples Do,” the Happy Couple Company is your source for the coolest couple gifts ever. 90
91
HAUS Salon 4240 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, 612.827.4287 haussalon.com
Modern. Bold. Beautiful. The stylists of HAUS Salon have created a vibe that is high-energy, chic and modern—you’ll feel like you’re in New York or LA, instead of nestled in convenient south Minneapolis. Their focus on technique is intense, but their personalities aren’t. Influenced by the Bauhaus movement, this spacious salon showcases local artists and treats guests to before and after photos of their new style.
Q&A What makes your business unique? We expose our staff to creativity and growth, which makes them excited to do amazing hair! We sponsor photo shoots, host art shows and are active in fashion.
What is the best advice you’ve been given? Don’t be afraid to work hard! Never ask your team to do something you wouldn’t do yourself. Lead by example and earn the respect of your team.
Jessica Reipke 92
Photos by B Johnson Photos
What would you like customers to know about your business? At HAUS we are hair, keeping your look upto-date, yet completely “you.” Our clients are age 9 to 99. What they all have in common is a tendency toward being fabulous.
93
Photos by Stephanie Hynes Photography
Q&A What makes your business unique? I take the vintage craft of crochet and bring it into the 21st century by using on-trend colors and styling. My fashion-forward, modern pieces are a delight to wear. What would you like customers to know about your business? Our goal is to provide our customers with high-fashion clothing and accessories that are handmade locally. What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Often an outsider’s perspective is the most eye-opening one.
Hazel & Haverly
What is your biggest motivator? I’m motivated by the challenges of staying creative and relevant. I strive to make each collection better than the last. Kedrin Likness
hazelandhaverly.com, Twitter: @hazelandhaverly
attagirl by kedrin attagirlbykedrin.com, Twitter: @attagirlcrochet
Handmade. Creative. Fashion-forward. Hazel & Haverly and attagirl by kedrin offer high-quality, handmade fashion accessories for discerning women who appreciate unique pieces. For attagirl by kedrin, Kedrin Likness designs and handcrafts affordable on-trend accessories for every season. Her high-fashion line, Hazel & Haverly, offers one-of-a-kind, custom-made treasures with the finest of yarns. 94
95
What is your personal motto?
Play like a child as often as possible. Leah Simon-Clarke of Extrados
Landmark Plaza by Elijah Parker
Health Foundations Family Health & Birth Center 968 Grand Ave, St Paul, 651.895.2520 health-foundations.com
Innovative. Family-centered. Welcoming. Health Foundations is a free-standing birth center where clients receive personal attention and extraordinary care in an intimate family-centered, home-like setting. New moms build relationships with Health Foundations midwives and staff and receive individualized support during this miraculous and transformative event. Health Foundations has created a warm, safe, loving environment, with birth suites that are spacious, beautifully decorated and provide luxurious tubs for water births.
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? We have a lactation center, support groups and well women clinic. We also offer yoga and various educational classes. We have a naturopathic pediatric and fertility practice at the Center.
Photos by Gwendolyn Waite Photography
98
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Being an entrepreneur gives me opportunities to meet wonderful people who are so inspiring. I love being part of the local community and networking with other business owners.
Dr. Amy Johnson-Grass
What is the biggest perk about owning a small business? It’s nice to be the decision maker and be able to implement my vision of providing a patient-centered, holistic model of care driven by the needs of the families we help. 99
Healthful Elements LLC
Q&A
612.840.2034 healthfulelements.com, Twitter: @JGrunewaldHNC
What makes your business unique? I can coach anyone, anywhere via the miracle of distance (phone or Skype) coaching. Many of my clients aren’t even in my time zone!
Informed. Educational. Transformative. Healthful Elements is a holistic nutrition and health program focusing on teaching women with hypothyroidism and adrenal fatigue how to nourish their bodies with whole foods and lifestyle choices that create balance. This allows them to regain energy, shed weight and alleviate other symptoms while still enjoying foods they love. Jill is also a health and wellness writer for several popular publications.
What would you like customers to know about your business? My individual coaching program is not one-size-fits-all. Everyone has unique bio-individuality and symptoms. I am each of my clients’ champion—their personal advocate in their quest for optimal health.
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? I love the creative thinking process that doesn’t require approval from others. I am free to make my own choices and create new products on my own terms. What is your personal motto? Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good. Jill Grunewald 100
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
What can’t you simply live without in your business? The immense reward and satisfaction of seeing my clients’ health transform during our work together. Their milestones are my milestones; their successes are my successes.
101
Heaven On Earth Therapeutic Massage
Q&A What makes your business unique? This homegrown business is results oriented. With 25 years of experience, a loyal following and trusted reputation, Heaven On Earth offers the ultimate healing and therapeutic massage experience.
5009 Excelsior Blvd, Ste 144, St Louis Park, 952.926.3928
Genuine. Nurturing. Experienced. Heaven On Earth is an oasis for the mind, body and spirit. Upon arriving, restful music eases the mind and calming aromas comfort the spirit, preparing the body for a soothing, transforming massage. Highly skilled hands nurture the muscles, providing essential tension relief for ultimate relaxation and wellness.
What would you like customers to know about your business? The massage session is all inclusive. Aroma and stone therapy are integrated into every massage. Knowledge in many techniques round off the intuitive and holistic experience. No massage is ever the same.
What is the biggest perk about owning a small business? When you have the opportunity to inject your own vitality into the business and experience success, it’s like Heaven on Earth! What or who inspires you? Those who have, against all odds or hardships, grown and become purposeful and compassionate and then share that with their world. Jean McCoy Koury 102
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Love what you do; make it your own and put your own character and authenticity into it.
103
Photos by B Johnson Photos
Q&A What makes your business unique? HFS was the first company to manufacture and market unique fashion solution products, and received the Allure “Best of Beauty” award for creating the new category called Fashion First Aid. What would you like customers to know about your business? We are part Hollywood stylist, part savvy girlfriend—the one who has your back (and front) and everything else you need to be perfectly put together!
Hollywood Fashion Secrets
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Proceed without fear. You don’t need all the answers, just a curiosity. Stick to it and believe in yourself! Malcolm Gladwell claims it takes 10,000 hours to become an expert. Jane Dailey and Marni Bumsted
612.548.5000 hollywoodfashionsecrets.com, Twitter: @Hollywood_FS
Innovative. Experts. Global. Hollywood Fashion Secrets (HFS) performs undercover wardrobe magic for women everywhere. Fashion fairy godmothers Marni and Jane are dedicated to preventing wardrobe malfunctions across the country. Hollywood Fashion Tape, the product that started it all, was inspired by a hapless gaping sweater in need of closure. Now, every clever, problem-solving HFS product is designed to help women feel confident and look their best everywhere, every time. 104
105
What makes your business unique? We hold the exclusive rights to many brands, pride ourselves on offering superior customer service, carry a mix of price ranges and 100 percent of our denim is made in the USA.
Photos by B Johnson Photos
Q&A
What can’t you simply live without in your business? Dedicated and fashionable customers, amazing employees and Diet Coke! What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Knowing that when women walk through the door they will experience an escape from their otherwise demanding and stressful lives and leave with amazing items.
Amber Toste
What is your personal motto? The size on the tag doesn’t matter—how it fits does!
Houndstooth 5749 Egan Dr, Savage, 952.440.2807 582 Prairie Center Dr, #223, Eden Prairie, 952.261.2974 houndstoothboutique.com, Twitter: @houndstoothmn
Fashion-forward. Service-driven. Quality. Houndstooth is a boutique like no other. Owner Amber Toste has an exceptional knowledge of fashion that goes beyond most; she specializes in pairing unusual finds with traditional pieces to fuse together a personal style, leaving the customer asking for more. Houndstooth also carries one-of-a-kind jewelry, premium clothing, denim and handmade shoes from all over the world. You won’t be disappointed. 106
107
hunt & gather 4944 Xerxes Ave S, Minneapolis, 612.455.0250 huntandgatherantiques.com
Kooky. Fresh. Unusual. Expect the unexpected at hunt & gather. Discover goodies that are curious, odd and funky. This shop is ever-changing and fully stocked with fun, hip found objects jammed into two levels by 20 aggressively “hunting” dealers. You’ll find a fantastic selection of taxidermy, oil paintings, giant letters, flashcards, Sandy Stone upholstered pieces, Tommy Brandt Designs, furniture and architectural elements, advertising and more! New stock bought and sold daily.
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? A fantastic style shop with only good, fairly priced “junk” that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Come find your prize at hunt & gather.
What is the best advice you’ve been given? Practice admiration, not envy. Always learn from others. Stay true to yourself, be original, have ideas and have an identity that is truly yours—not a diluted copycat version.
Kristi Berkvam Stratton 108
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? I believe in the rough individualism of the true American spirit. I have always felt confident plotting my own course. I delight in taking risks.
109
il Vostro Boutique 5045 France Ave S, Edina, 612.920.3167 ilvostroboutique.com
Classic. Delightful. Enchanting. il Vostro Boutique searches for under-the-radar designers from abroad as well as local ones to offer customers stylish, special pieces that aren’t available elsewhere in the Twin Cities. Owner Katie Egan brings her Manhattan fashion industry experience to her 50th & France shopping haven. il Vostro Boutique strives to appeal to women of a variety of ages and lifestyles and carries both trend-driven and classic pieces in a charming, friendly environment.
Q&A What makes your business unique? il Vostro Boutique offers a warm, welcoming environment with unique pieces from around the world as well as locally-made items. The majority of items are under $300. What can’t you simply live without in your business? The support of my friends and family. Most of my friends and family have worked in the shop, including my grandma. Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
110
What is your biggest motivator? My love for fashion and the industry. After working in Manhattan in various roles within the industry, I still just can’t get enough!
Katie Egan
What or who inspires you? The excitement of discovering a new, up-and-coming designer and seeing the new collections they develop season after season. 111
Indigo Journeys LLC 763.498.7754 indigojourneys.com
Personalized. Empowering. Passionate. Indigo Journeys is a full-service travel consultancy firm that caters to the needs of the insightful traveler. Combining first-hand destination knowledge, strong industry contacts and a true desire to know you, they craft unforgettable experiences for clients. They will support and inspire you to experience the world the way you have always dreamed of. Let Indigo Journeys bring the world to your door!
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? We love working with people who want to build lifelong relationships and friendships. We want to help make every trip unique and special, because your time and memories are valuable. What can’t you simply live without in your business? Great relationships with clients and suppliers, the ability to think quickly, my laptop and a little caffeine!
Ashley Robinson (standing), Rhonda Robinson and BJ Hall 112
What do you CRAVE? To never look back and say, “I wish I would have...” “To live each day and savor it for what it is—a (the) present.”
Main photo and protrait by B Johnson Photos, additional photos by Claude Dagenais and gerenme.
What makes your business unique? Our personalized service! We really live our motto: We Bring The World To Your Door.
113
Photos by Infrared Studio
Q&A What makes your business unique? In a word: me. I bring my personal aesthetic to bear on everything I do, whether I’m creating a jewelry collection, a new product, brand or a website. What would you like customers to know about your business? I’m a bit of a Renaissance woman; my background spans fine art, design, photography, marketing, and interactive media. Have an interesting design project you need help with? Let’s talk! What can’t you simply live without in your business? Fashionistas and visionaries. Women who are always on the lookout for cuttingedge ideas and cool new products.
Infrared Studio
Lauren Nicole Rusnak
612.269.1662 infraredstudio.com, Twitter: @infraredstudio
Edgy. Engaging. Exceptional. Infrared Studio, an atelier owned by interdisciplinary artist Lauren Nicole, embodies an aesthetic that speaks to everyone from riot grrrls (of all ages!) to more mature women who don’t take their style cues from mainstream media’s fashion police. The pieces here are ahead-of-trend—edgy, elegant and unconventional.
114
115
Jennifer Merchant Design 612.710.4595 jennifermerchantdesign.com, Twitter: @JenMDesign
Innovative. Bold. Fashion-forward. Jewelry unlike any other, Jennifer Merchant Design offers wearable art for the fashion conscious. This high-quality, handcrafted label—created by Minneapolis designer Jennifer Merchant—blurs the line between art and fashion. Combining materials and techniques that are both traditional and experimental, Jennifer’s jewelry is as intriguing as it is beautiful. Bold and fashion-forward, this is jewelry that gets you noticed!
Q&A What makes your business unique? I make jewelry using a technique I invented to layer acrylic with found imagery. I also create designs that incorporate the solid surface material Corian with fine metals and gems.
Main photo by Robb Long courtesy of l’etoile Magazine, additional photos by Jacqueline Smith of Juniper Seahorses
116
What would you like customers to know about your business? I specialize in one-of-a-kind and custom-order creations. You can find my work for sale online as well as in local boutiques and galleries such as Bumbershute and Gallery 360.
Jennifer Merchant
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Creative problem solving. So much goes into running a business, especially when you also design the product, that there is never a shortage of things to learn and problems to solve. 117
Photos by Mary McGovern Photography
Q&A What makes you unique? Our great staff specializes in helping you put “your look” together—for as long as it takes. What would you like customers to know? We always tuck a good thought into every package that leaves our store. What do you CRAVE? In business? In life? Our passion is helping each customer look and feel her best. WHAT do you CRAVE? We love finding small chef-owned restaurants in any city we visit.
Judith McGrann & Friends, Inc.
Judith McGrann & Meghan McGrann
4615 Excelsior Blvd, Minneapolis, 612.922.2971 judithmcgrannandfriends.com
Fresh. Fun. Friendly. This mother-daughter boutique has been a vibrant, uplifting and welcoming Twin Cities destination for nearly three decades. They specialize in high-quality, easyto-wear clothing and an ever-changing mix of jewelry, accessories and one-ofa-kind finds. Customers rave about the service, the comfortable environment and the joy in knowing they’ll leave with a look that’s truly their own.
118
119
Just Bloomed 5255 Chicago Ave S, Minneapolis, 612.600.9033 just-bloomed.com, Twitter: @JustBloomed
Lush. Vibrant. Stylish. Just Bloomed is an award-winning fresh floral design studio specializing in weddings and events. Owner Jackie Just is sought after for her artistic talent in bringing a client’s vision to life, signature clutter-free look, and smart designs that have captured the attention of Twin Cities brides, local and national publications, and TV shows as well as landed her the honor of being named Minnesota Bride magazine’s Best Florist of 2011.
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? I don’t consider myself the floral vendor, but part of the event design team. I’m passionate about we do here and always strive for floral that is unique and mindful.
Who is your role model or mentor? Women who have mastered the balance of business ownership, relationships and motherhood. What is your biggest motivator? Making each wedding or event more unique and personal than the next. Jackie Just 120
Photos by Sewell Photography
What can’t you simply live without in your business? Handwritten notes. With so much technology these days, a handwritten thank you note goes a long way.
121
What makes your business unique? LaunchHER is your one-stop source for all things entrepreneurs need—business AND legal—by providing brands with legal protection and business-savvy advice. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? We love being a champion of womenowned brands. It is so exciting to watch a brand flourish under LaunchHER’s expert guidance.
Photos by Megan Norman of Megan Norman Photography
Q&A
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Hire us. Starting a business out on the right foot is money well-spent. What is your biggest motivator? Witnessing our clients’ daily successes. Kara Jensen Zitnick, Esq. and Tracy Corcoran
What is your personal motto? Tracy: Eat dessert first. Kara: When in doubt, buy the shoes. What or who inspires you? Coffee. Desserts. Red nail polish. Stylish stationery. Creating a legacy.
122
LaunchHER 612.275.6317 launchher.com, Twitter: @LaunchHER, @LaunchHERLaw
Entrepreneurial. Distinctive. Connected. LaunchHER gives a boost to women-owned brands by providing flat-fee business and legal services to companies at all stages. Their marketing, social media and brand development consultations grow brands beyond expectations. Flat-fee legal services protect brands through affordable trademark, copyright, business formation and individualized contracts.
123
What would you like customers to know about your business? Bring a project and join us in the knitting room, knit or shop to your heart’s delight. What can’t you simply live without in your business? We are a supportive, inspiring yarn and gift shop. We help any customer with their fiber project with great conversation. And the gifts are remarkable.
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
Q&A
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Go big. Create the wow factor and treat your customers as the most special people in the world. And be honest. What is the best advice you’ve been given? To go big or go home. Polly Hart and Kirsten Skoglund
Lila and Claudine’s Yarn & Gifts 86 Mahtomedi Ave, Mahtomedi, 651.429.9551 lilaandclaudines.com, Twitter: @lilaandclaudine
Exciting. Unique Supportive. Entering Lila and Claudine’s is like “going down the rabbit hole” or “jumping through the looking glass.” The kaleidoscope of color around the room fills you with excited inspiration. You see fiber full of color and texture; there are creative ideas around every corner. A clever collection of gifts peeks out of nooks and crannies, giving you a host of ideas for the perfect present or prize! 124
125
Lisa Rubin Wardrobe Consulting LLC 612.747.6695 wardrobeconsulting.net
Sophisticated. Efficient. Impeccable. Long considered a secret weapon among the most savvy businesswomen, Lisa Rubin provides exceptional service to men and women of all professions and incomes. For more than 25 years, Lisa’s discriminating style has commanded a level of sophistication for her clientele that has no equal in the Twin Cities. With impeccable taste and confidence, Lisa offers such an incredibly effective service within every woman’s budget and lifestyle that her clients return season after season, year after year.
Q&A What makes your business unique? I give my clients assurance that they will be able to confidently go about their day and never worry about what they look like again. Regardless of their size, budget or profession, my clients are always dressed for success. What would you like customers to know about your business? My clients actually spend less on clothes because every piece works. I work fast and smart—my clients are very busy and I save them hours and hours by styling them efficiently and effectively. Main photo by studioTart additional photos by Darin Back Photography
126
Lisa Rubin
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Using what I was always told was a “special gift.” I get to work every day with smart women and men of all professions as a their fashion guru, coach and therapist! 127
Local D’Lish 208 N First St, Minneapolis, 612.886.3047 localdlish.com
Local. Fresh. Organic. Local D’Lish is a delightful cross between your neighborhood grocery store and a farmer’s market. They focus on high-quality, small-batch products from local farmers/food artisans. Every product has a story that the staff at Local D’Lish is eager to share with their customers. This “reconnection” with food has created a bit of magic right here in this little store.
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? We host a variety of fun events: cooking classes, food tours, fundraisers, etc. Our most popular event is our indoor winter market, which is held the third Saturday of every month from November–April, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
128
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Remember to balance your life. Take time for all the things that make you who you are—family, friends, music, art—whatever it is, don’t neglect it just to build your business. What or who inspires you? All of the small farmers and food artisans who put their heart and soul into creating wonderful food. Ann Yin 129
The Lowbrow 4244 Nicollet Ave S, Minneapolis, 612.208.0720 thelowbrowmpls.com, Twitter: @TheLowbrowMpls
Hip. Organic. Delicious. The Lowbrow is a new restaurant that brings highbrow ingredients into a lowbrow scene. The Lowbrow offers all your tavern favorites with a from-scratch, local twist. Think burgers made with grass-fed Stone Bridge beef, hand-cut fries, from-scratch nachos, and hand-stuffed jalapeno poppers. A great list of regional beers and thoughtfully chosen wines make this the newest south Minneapolis destination.
Q&A What makes your business unique? The Lowbrow is the only spot in south Minneapolis where unpretentious bar food meets farm fresh ingredients! The funky decor is the brain child of megacool design team Aesthetic Apparatus.
Heather Bray and Jodi Ayres 130
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Getting the opportunity to create a community where kindness and respect are of the highest priority is so satisfying. We respect each other, our guests and the earth.
Photos by B Johnson Photos
What would you like customers to know about your business? Weekend brunch is our best-kept secret. Fluffy from-scratch raspberry pancakes go great with blueberry mimosas and the spicy Jalapeno Hash is perfect with our house Sake Bloody Mary.
131
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
Q&A What makes your business unique? The fresh food that actually tastes so, so good and our friendly, informed servers who really care about your experience. What would you like customers to know about your business? We have a full liquor license for our restaurant, wine bar and Lucia’s To Go, and offer easy parking. We own the parking lot next door and have a $5 valet year round in the evenings. What can’t you simply live without in your business? The fresh food!
Lucia’s Restaurant, Wine Bar and To Go
Lucia Watson
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Find a good mentor, be passionately determined, and watch your nickels and dimes.
1432 W 31st St, Minneapolis, 612.825.1572 lucias.com
Delicious. Inviting. Real. Lucia’s is a Minneapolis landmark! Using the highest quality ingredients, Lucia’s Restaurant, Wine Bar and Lucia’s To Go offer something for everyone, including melt-inyour-mouth muffins, pastries and breads. Lucia’s creates a weekly changing menu serving lunch and dinner for dining in or to go, along with a full bar offering organic wines and delicious cocktails. Enjoy all this and more in an intimate, warm and inviting environment. 132
133
What makes your business unique? Our collaborative approach to design allows the designer, artist and client to come together to create amazing spaces. We start with functional beauty and work to make each home reflect the client’s lifestyle, taste, and needs.
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
Q&A
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Our amazing clients! We are both so blessed to serve the very best clientele, in not only the Twin Cities, but throughout the US and internationally. What do you CRAVE? Dark chocolate; celebrating the little moments; and uninspired walls, floors, ceilings and homes that beg for our creative inspiration and hands. Erica Cooper and Alicia Danzig
Lulu & Lilly’s 314 W 38th St, Minneapolis, 763.441.6950, 612.275.6744 luluandlillys.com, lulupainting.com, yourstyleredesigned.com, Twitter: @ColorGypsy
Inspired. Unique. Personalized. Lulu & Lilly’s is a collaboration of two businesses that focuses on artisan painting and interior design. It’s a color and design playhouse for creative partners Alicia Danzig of LULU Painting and Erica Cooper of Your Style reDesigned. The shop is equal parts design space and boutique shopping. In addition, they house creative workshops galore. Homeowners who long for the resources to pull together a uniquely personalized home will need to look no further. 134
135
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
Q&A What makes your business unique? A self-described “education junkie,” Lynne continually seeks certification training— and as a result is trusted by the many orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists who refer their patients to her care. What can’t you simply live without in your business? My Cadillac Table, aka: “Lynne’s Miracle Table.” As we age, our muscles tighten and postures change. I can work wonders for my clients within a short time on this table.
Lynne Garon Personal Training and Pilates, LLC 612.242.1642 lynnegaron.com
Compassionate. Progressive. Educational. For more than 25 years, Lynne Garon has been working hard to keep her clients fit, strong and healthy. Her impressive array of clients range from busy corporate executives to patients recovering from injuries to fashionable women. Her approach is caring, but effective. She combines her numerous certifications, including strength training, Pilates and yoga to create a highly-customized program for each unique client. 136
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Educate, educate, educate. Become an expert in your field and never stop learning. Learn from the best and you will be the best. Teach with love, care and excellence. Lynne Garon
Who is your role model or mentor? My mother, who always told me a women should be strong, independent and able to stand on her own two feet. She was a woman truly ahead of her time. What is your personal motto? Life is not a “dress rehearsal.” It’s the final play. Make the most of every single day. What do you CRAVE? Excellent health, inner strength and love. 137
maha! 631 Lake St E, Wayzata, 952.873.7001 mahaactivewear.com, Twitter: @maha_activewear
Current. Bold. Inspired. maha! is a destination where women who love fashion will be inspired by a unique selection, coveted designers, and an exciting philosophy of mixing special pieces together in unexpected ways for the modern active lifestyle. maha! is highly regarded for their carefully edited blend of apparel, accessories and jewelry for those not afraid to mix fashion with everyday life.
Q&A What makes your business unique? We are dedicated to supporting the community through our Maha Movement. We put the spotlight on our amazing customers each month and raise awareness for the charities that inspire them.
What do you CRAVE? Vacations! I love my job, but it’s always healthy to get away, rejuvenate and find clarity.
Krista Fragola 138
Photos by Darin Back Photography
What would you like customers to know about your business? maha! strives to push boundaries and break the rules. It is a place that encourages women to evolve their style based on inspiration. It is much more than activewear.
139
Mama’s Happy Independence, Minnesota
What do you like best about owning a business? Being able to make the changes and take the chances that I think are necessary.
Inspiring. Creative. Fresh. Mama’s Happy is an occasional shop located in Independence, just 20 miles west of Minneapolis. Occasionally open—but always fabulous—with new finds each and every month, Mama’s Happy is chock-full of beautifully displayed handcrafted, upcycled, repurposed and vintage home goods and gifts created by an eclectic group of bargainistas and artists who, like their shopping guests, are looking for a Little Happy.
What motivates you? The women who have been touched by Mama’s Happy—the artists selling their goods in my shop and the customers buying them. What is your motto or theme song? We’re not saving lives, we’re just painting furniture.
Photos by JanellePhoto
Amanda Ficek
What place inspires you? Any room that needs a little lovin’. I can’t help it; my wheels just start spinning and I wanna move furniture.
1
Minneapolis
Specialties: Handcrafted, Repurposed and Vintage Goods 7888 County Rd 6, Independence 612.239.0318 mamashappy.com facebook.com/MamasHappy Twitter: @MamasHappy
2
“Tune out anyone around you who isn’t supportive. Practice saying “no.” Remind yourself that this is your business and no one else’s. Everyone will have an opinion. In the end it’s yours that matters.” Amanda Ficek of Mama’s Happy
The Marron Alliance, LLC
Q&A What makes your business unique? Our holistic approach. Executive coaches empower. Leadership consultants enlighten. Speakers inspire. We do all three, connecting your strengths and passions to results, paving your unique path to success.
612.751.4444 marronalliance.com
Inspiring. Insightful. Transformative. Kathleen Marron provides a portfolio of professional services to help individuals and teams achieve success. Her clients rave about her keen ability to tailor her services to their needs: turning thoughts into action, deriving clarity from chaos, and equipping them for sustainable change as they achieve their ideal future.
What can’t you simply live without in your business? A sense of humor; an organizationally gifted executive assistant and creative variety.
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Be curious, creative and courageous. Know your strengths (and blind spots). Kill the ANTs (automatic negative thoughts) through renewing your mind. Finally, get good financial advice (and your own success coach). Who inspires you? Among mere mortals I’d include: Eleanor Roosevelt, Peter Drucker, Amelia Earhart, Katherine Hepburn, Maya Angelou, and my incredibly gifted clients, family and friends. Kathleen A. Marron, JD, ACC 140
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? The freedom to be creative, take risks, and explore people’s stories. Each day is a new adventure. I love bringing people hope and helping them achieve their dreams!
141
Photos by Alec C. Johnson at AC Johnson Photography
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? We host approximately 10 jewelry designer trunk shows each year, giving our customers an insiders’ opportunity to meet the personalities behind their jewelry purchases. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Having the freedom to determine when the time is right to try new ideas— products, strategies, promotions— without interference from anyone. What is your biggest motivator? Loyal, repeat customers! What do you CRAVE? Jewelry and chocolate, of course!
Max’s
Ellen Hertz
Shops at Excelsior & Grand; 3826 Grand Way, St Louis Park, 952.922.8364 stylebymax.com, Twitter: @stylebymax
Cool. Urban. Artistic. Chic and casual, Max’s has built a reputation as a jewelry store unlike any other in the Twin Cities. Max’s features artist-designed-and-made fine jewelry, home décor and specialty chocolates from around the world. In 2011, Max’s was named the Coolest Small Store in America by INSTORE magazine. Discover this unique collection at The Shops at Excelsior & Grand in St. Louis Park.
142
143
What makes your business unique? As a woman-owned construction company, Metamorphosis is rare enough. When you include the real estate brokerage and green sensibility, we truly become one of a kind. What can’t you simply live without in your business? As I am working in two industries with poor reputations, the answer is simple: integrity, honesty and communication.
Main photo by Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography additional photos by David J. Turner Photography
Q&A
What is the best advice you’ve been given? “Leap and the net will appear.” —John Burroughs Who is your role model or mentor? To those who have mentored me over the years, thank you. But some things you can’t learn. I’d like to think that I inherited spirit and drive from my grandma. Samantha J. Strong What or who inspires you? My team. When I was working solo, although the work was rewarding, there was no support. Now my team and I all work together, doing more collectively than any one of us could do alone.
144
Metamorphosis 612.782.2000 morphmpls.com, Twitter: @MorphMpls
Sustainable. Vibrant. Knowledgeable. Metamorphosis is trailblazing a new path in Twin Cities housing. Integrating real estate and construction, they’re experts in their fields and bring a sense of environmental stewardship to each client experience. Growing more than 300 percent last year, Metamorphosis is on the way up! Now is the time to buy, sell, or renovate your home or business. You can expect Metamorphosis to provide unsurpassed service, value and results. 145
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur?
New ideas make me feel like I’ve just injected a pint of espresso in my arm. Carol Bruess, PhD, of Happy Couple Company
State Fair by B Johnson Photos
What makes your business unique? We offer a boutique photography experience. Personal attention is our specialty, so we take time to get to know each client in order to create unique art for her home.
Photos by Miroslavich Photography
Q&A
What would you like customers to know about your business? We solve the puzzle of how is this baby, child, family, dog or horse unique and how can we create beautiful portraits for their home. What is your personal motto? Wisdom wells within (found on a bracelet from my mom). I often wear it when I am a bundle of nerves and need a little extra encouragement.
Melissa Miroslavich
Miroslavich Photography 413 Wacouta St, Ste 320, St Paul, 651.343.4823 miroslavichphotography.com
Playful. Creative. Fun-loving. Miroslavich Photography is a full-service boutique photography studio specializing in compelling relationship portraiture. Melissa, an awardwinning photographer, captures your family, children, and pets as they really are; whether that’s silly, quiet, sassy or playful. She brings relationships to life in front of the camera, creating unique art for your home. Miroslavich Photography is “where eyes dance, dimples dip, hearts skip.” 148
149
Moxie Cycling Co. 612.803.0464 moxiecycling.com
Stylish. Performance. Quality. Moxie Cycling Co. is a cycling apparel company made by and for women with moxie. In a male-dominated sport where traditional men’s jerseys are often simply modified for women, Moxie Cycling is evolving the world of women’s cycling apparel by placing a woman’s unique needs at the forefront of their design. Moxie Cycling believes women should never have to sacrifice performance, comfort or style.
Q&A What makes your business unique? High performance meets high style at Moxie Cycling Co.
What is the best advice you’ve been given? DA: Think big, start small and work fast. BF: There is no time like the present. What do you CRAVE? Life-work balance and an abundance of great relationships.
Brooke Freiborg and Deb Amorde 150
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? We love being able to channel our passion into a meaningful venture for not only ourselves, but all the women who share our love of cycling.
151
Photos by Darin Back Photography
Q&A What makes your business unique? All of our projects are one of a kind. It is like starting a new job every time. What would you like customers to know about your business? We ensure the finish chosen is an appropriate choice for our customer’s home or business. We help them avoid getting caught up in the latest trend that they may regret later. What can’t you simply live without in your business? My sister, coffee and a trowel. What is your biggest motivator? Seeing our wall finishes on TV and in local and national publications. We must be doing something right!
My Sister & I, Inc.
Jennifer Wight and Julie Driscoll
952.461.1918 mysisterandiinc.com
Highly regarded. Innovative. Artistic Sisters Jennifer and Julie of My Sister & I, Inc. have spent the last 12 years transforming plain walls into exceptional works of art. They have earned a reputation for creating spectacular custom European and decorative wall finishes. Using the finest materials, My Sister and I has curated an extensive portfolio of finishes, including classic old world European plasters as well as contemporary and modern wall designs.
152
153
What would you like customers to know about your business? We don’t just sell skimpy bikinis! We are a store for real women with real bodies. Take a leap of faith and trust us. You will love the results.
Photos by Lyndsey Mallak
Q&A
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Humble thyself, you will make many mistakes and you are not the smartest woman ever. Start small and keep expenses to a minimum. Avoid expensive build-outs that do not directly increase revenue. What is your personal motto? “Fearless and Fabulous!” I am not afraid to take risks and I strive to ensure everything I do is classy and fabulous.
Jennifer Cermak
Nani Nalu Beachwear Boutique 3922 W 50th St, Edina, 952.546.5598 naninaluswim.com, Twitter: @NaniNalu
A-go-go. Astute. Alluring. Nani Nalu provides a one-on-one shopping experience to help customers find the perfect fitting swimsuit. Why the personal shopper? The fit experts’ knowledge of store products enables them to pull recommendations based on bust, pant, torso height, body shape, age of/any kids and activity level. This ensures that you try on the right sizes in the fitting room and helps select flattering styles for your body shape. 154
155
Natures Harvest 320 E Wayzata Blvd, Wayzata, 952.473.4687 naturesharvesthome.com, Twitter: @naturesharvest1
Nostalgic. Ever-changing. Thriving. Natures Harvest opened on historic Lake Street in Wayzata, Minn. in 1992. Within a few years, Natures Harvest moved to a more spacious location on Wayzata Boulevard. Natures Harvest has been a thriving European-inspired boutique for almost two decades. The design team at Natures Harvest travels the world to find vintage gifts, distinctive accessories and furnishings for your home. Designers are also available for fresh flowers, silk arrangements and potting services.
Q&A What makes your business unique? We love creating the next “must have” for your home. Each treasure from us is a one-of-a-kind item for you.
What can’t you simply live without in your business? Being surrounded by such amazing people. The energy level is always so high around the store. I truly enjoy working with my boys and loyal staff; they are my family.
Debbie Bradley 156
Photos by B Johnson Photos
What would you like customers to know about your business? Our design team is ready for anything. You dream it, we create it. With our experienced and talented design team, we can make it happen for you.
157
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? While the business was inspired by my first dog Maggie, I offer gift and memorial candles for cat and horse lovers as well. Proceeds from sales support local and national rescue groups. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? For years, I worked in advertising for brands that I didn’t connect with personally. But now I own a brand that’s making a difference in areas I’m passionate about.
Nelli Designs
Kathy Kuhl
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Do something that matters to you and to others. When I realized others also shared the need to honor their pets, I knew I had a solid business idea and the opportunity to fill a niche in the marketplace.
612.669.8769 nellidesigns.com, Twitter: @nellidesigns
Heartfelt. Unique. Passionate. Nelli Designs was born out of Kathy Kuhl’s need for a memorial when she lost her first dog Maggie in 2008. Kathy poured herself a candle to create a place to hang Maggie’s old collar and tags. Since then, Kathy has hand poured thousands of grass-scented eco-soya candles, personalizing each order with collars and custom tags. They’re now a popular gift for any pet lover on any occasion.
158
159
What makes your business unique? I use each client’s individual look as my inspiration for beauty. Every client walks away feeling confident and beautiful, but most importantly, they feel like themselves.
Photos by Chris McDuffie Photography except middle detail by Taylor Tupy Photography
Q&A What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? There’s no better feeling than knowing that I made a difference in someone’s day. The confidence I see in a woman’s eyes is better than any paycheck! What is the best advice you’ve been given? To just be me.
Nicole Fae
What or who inspires you? My clients, many of whom are also female entrepreneurs, inspire me with their ambition, their determination and their strength. They motivate me to go after my dreams.
Nicole Fae 275 E Fourth St, Studio 510, St Paul, 952.292.4775 nicolefae.com, Twitter: @MUANicoleFae
Artistic. Stylish. Honest. Nicole Fae is the Twin Cities’ one-stop beauty expert. Specializing in makeup, hairstyling, wardrobe, brow-shaping and custom airbrush tanning, since 2005 she has helped women look and feel their best. In 2010, Nicole Fae launched her own cosmetics line, featuring products custom-designed to highlight women’s natural beauty. Her mission: to empower women to embrace whatever makes them beautiful. No matter what service they choose, they all leave with confidence. 160
161
NONTOXIQUE BEAUTY 888.869.4783 nontoxique.com, Twitter: @nontoxique
Holistic. Performance. Luxury. NONTOXIQUE is a unique lifestyle brand created exclusively for the spa industry, with a niche focus on preserving the health and beauty of the hands, feet and nails, holistically. NONTOXIQUE captures the essence of today’s active, savvy women and their aspired way of life in a way that is authentic and fun, natural and luxurious. NONTOXIQUE can be found in luxury spas around the country.
Q&A What makes your business unique? We’re the first authentically natural, holistically formulated skin care line for the hands, feet and nails. The line is created by an industry manicurist, with a fresh and purposeful perspective. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? I set the rules. In the world of NONTOXIQUE our No. 1 rule is that every day must be a fun adventure. If the day feels off, take the day off!
Photos by B Johnson Photos
162
What is the best advice you’ve been given? Go with your gut and always be authentic. Even if it takes longer to get where you want to be, people will respect you in the long run. What is your personal motto? Why follow when you can take the lead? Sheila Fredriksen 163
OPM Boutique 3700 Grand Way, St Louis Park, 952.567.7399 opmboutique.com, Twitter: @opmboutique
Upscale. Up-and-coming. Friendly. OPM boutique follows a vision to always advocate the best in style, fashion and design to create an exciting customer experience. This hybrid boutique brings an atmosphere of big city style to the Twin Cities. OPM Boutique presents a place for emerging designers to showcase their collections alongside established industry leaders. You’ll find fresh, versatile styles that span the spectrum of fashion.
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? Our brand mix includes both local talent and luxury designers that hail from the fashion capitals of the world.
What is your biggest motivator? Owning a business has always been my dream ever since I was little; owning a women’s boutique is like icing on the cake. What is your personal motto? Be a leader, not a follower. Susan Sun 164
Photos by Darin Back Photography
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Before you sign on the line, ask yourself if you are ready to eat, breath, sleep, sweat and cry your business, because that is what it takes to be successful.
165
Paper Miniskirt 320.250.1848 paperminiskirt.com, Twitter: @Paperminiskirt
Simple. Chic. Funky. Kristi Pamperin combined her passions for retrospection, scrapbooking, color and organization, and her addiction to unique home decor items to create super chic Paper Miniskirt magnetic memo boards. Hang them up to organize your photographs, notes, quotes or coupons as a chic alternative to a cork board. Originally offering the memo boards online, Kristi now also sells at major retail and wholesale shows around the Midwest.
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? I am insanely passionate about retrospection. I believe it is important to keep photographs around from all stages of life so you can look back on yourself, your accomplishments and celebrate them every single day. What can’t you simply live without in your business? Fun, trendy fabrics. I am addicted to fabric shopping online. I don’t sew, so this is my way of getting to experience the luxury of color and fiber! Kristi Pamperin 166
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
What makes your business unique? “Paper Miniskirt” is an anagram of my name. I love that it is quirky and makes readers stop and think. I didn’t want a plain company name. It’s definitely unique!
167
Photos by Erica Loeks Photography
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? Paperista is the destination for anyone hosting an event. Our team is comprised of graphic designers and stylists who freely lend their design expertise to every client who walks in our doors. What can’t you simply live without in your business? Customers exclaim everyday that they can’t get enough of letterpress printed paper. Paperista thrives on the unanimous love of artisan printed paper! What is your personal motto? “It’s the little things that make the big picture.” I’ve lived by that statement for years! It’s the reason I started Paperista.
Paperista
Antoinette Ramos
5023 France Ave, Minneapolis, 612.886.3470 paperista.com, Twitter: @paperista
Stylish. Lovely. Distinctive. Paperista is a stylish stationery and design boutique located at 50th & France with awe-inspiring invitations and luxe paper goods for wedding, baby, social and business clients. The fresh and modern store offers a carefully curated selection of über stylish greeting cards, invitations, stationery, customized specialty gifts, and entertaining accessories from their favorite vendors around the globe.
168
169
What makes your business unique? It’s all about peace and love.
Photos by B Johnson Photos
Q&A What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? The opportunity to collaborate with other creative people is always inspiring for me; I love that. What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Have integrity, follow through, stay focused, pay your bills on time, and make sure you are passionate about what you’re doing. What or who inspires you? I’m inspired by the possibility of spreading peace—one t-shirt at a time. What do you CRAVE? Knowledge. Pam Mondale
Peace Pavilion Inside Guild Collective: 4414 Excelsior Blvd, St Louis Park, 952.378.1815 Underwood Street at the Minnesota State Fair peace-pavilion.com, Twitter: @PeacePavilionMN
Groovy. Soulful. Funky. Looking for a way to embrace your inner flower child? Peace Pavilion is it! If you missed their psychedelic tent at the State Fair, fear not... you can also find them at Guild Collective. More than a t-shirt shop, Peace Pavilion carries jewelry, home decor, original art, vintage, and groovy novelties. You’ll love the shopping and may experience a flashback or two. 170
171
Peoples Organic Coffee & Wine Cafe 3545 Galleria, Edina, 952.426.1856 peoplesorganic.com
Hip. Innovative. Inviting. Peoples Organic is all about fresh, local, organic and sustainable, casual food served in a setting that is very Parisian. They began as an organic coffee concept cafe serving baked goods made fresh on site. Their wine bar and local artisan draft beers are essential complements to their small-batch roasted, fair-trade, organic espresso drinks. Blue cheese stratas and goat cheese omelets are served all day, along with nurturing soups, organic salads and artisan grilled sandwiches.
Q&A
What would you like customers to know about your business? We were voted Best Vegetarian Cafe by Minneapolis.St.Paul magazine our first year. We enable customers to customize their coffee drinks by offering almond milk, hemp milk, rice milk, soy milk and coconut milk. We only sweeten with organic agave. Lynn Gordon 172
Photos by B Johnson Photos
What makes your business unique? Customers tell us they just love being in our space. We created a haven to just sit and “be.� We provide free Wi-Fi all day, comforting spaces and a welcoming bar. Our customers love the taste of our water! We went to great expense to install a special water purification system offering pure ambient, pure chilled and pure sparkling water. Guests can help themselves and fill up their own water bottles.
173
Petalum 612.385.1399 petalum.com, Twitter: @petalumfloral
Meaningful. Enjoyable. Detailed. Petalum was created by two seemingly opposite girls with one perfect thing in common: a love for flowers. Sarah and Rebecca are inspired by the beauty of flowers and encouraged by the endless possibilities. They design and create floral arrangements for private parties, corporate events and weddings. From the initial consult to the big event, Petalum is completely dedicated to their customers. They wouldn’t have it any other way.
Q&A What makes your business unique? We recently launched a donation program called Petalum Gives Back. We donate a portion of our profits to the charity of the bride and groom’s choice. Main photo and middle detail by Ellierose Photography, portrait and left detail by Jacki V. Photography, right detail by Andrew Vick Photography
174
What can’t you simply live without in your business? A knife, tape, music and a little sugar. What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Set goals and constantly revisit them to ensure you are heading in the right direction. What do you CRAVE? Kisses from our kids, a warm summer day, a night out with our husbands and that extra detail that makes it just right.
Rebecca Ross and Sarah Bauer 175
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Taking pride in what I have created and offer to clients. When clients comment on how much they enjoy our cozy, stylish space, it makes me so happy to know that they are having a wonderful experience.
Photos by B Johnson Photos
Q&A
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? It takes a lot of time and devotion! It’s not something you can walk away from when you want to—and there will be late nights. Perseverance and time are key. What is your biggest motivator? Bills are usually a great motivator! I always ask myself, “how far can I go? What more can I do? Can I make my big dreams a reality?” Cassidy Lexcen
Phatchellies 11 10th Ave S, Hopkins, 952.938.5402 phatchellies.com
Chic. Vivacious. Indulgent. Phatchellies is one of the best-kept secrets in the Twin Cities area. A little hidden gem in downtown Hopkins, it is one of the most up-and-coming salons in the metro. Phatchellies features some of most talented, highly trained technicians who offer the best of hair, skin and nail services. Featured lines are Kerastse, Bumble and bumble and Epicuren.
176
177
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
Q&A What makes your business unique? Competitive cheerleading has grown in popularity over the years. With 12 competitive “All Star” teams and many classes, Planet Spirit offers a unique, athletic way to get involved. What would you like customers to know about your business? The staff at Planet Spirit strive to not only teach competitive cheerleading, but also many other valuable life lessons. They enjoy offering a “family environment” for all.
Planet Spirit, Inc.
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? My favorite aspect of this business over the years is having the ability to work closely with such wonderful people and establishing relationships with the amazing athletes and parents! Sue Godes
840 Decatur Ave N, Golden Valley, 763.512.1638 planetspirit.com
Friendly. Active. Competitive. Planet Spirit, located in Golden Valley, Minn. is a cheerleading, dance, tumbling and stunting training facility. Planet Spirit offers classes, camps and team programs for males and females of all ability levels, ages 4 to adult. Planet Spirit “All Star” team members have been featured on Kare 11, “Good Morning America” and ESPN.
178
179
Postpostdash.com, Twitter: @Post_Style
Art-inspired. Luxe. Smart. Post- handbags and accessories are unique, fashionable and accessible. Co-founders Lois Eliason and Katie McShane use their training as art historians to guide them in their creative process. Each collection by Post- pays tribute to key artists, works and trends from diverse periods in history. Hugely popular, the first three collections are inspired by the Italian Renaissance, 1960s Pop art and the Industrial Revolution.
Q&A What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Bringing an outrageous idea to the table without fear that it might be shut down. What is the best advice you’ve been given? Stop beating your heads against the wall by trying to do everything. Focus on your strengths and you’ll find that things will start falling into place for you. What or who inspires you? We’re always inspired by renegade artists and art movements. Anything that is edgy and outsider gets a double take from us. Katie McShane and Lois Eliason 180
Main photo by Stephanie Hynes Photography, Portrait by Mandy Birdwell, middle detail by Joan Buccina, left and right detal by Lois Eliason
What would you like customers to know about your business? Each Post- handbag and accessory is part of a limited edition handcrafted by master artisans.
181
Pretty Girl Designs Minneapolis, Minnesota Fun. Personalized. Glittery. Pretty Girl Designs is in the business of creating happiness through invitations that make your events memorable and stationery that expresses your personal style. Darcy is involved in each step of delivering your customized product. She works to understand the message you want to convey and your individual tastes, and then mixes in a bit of fun (and oftentimes glitter) to create the finished product.
What are your most popular products or services? Customized invitations for children’s parties and bridal showers.
What do you like best about owning a business? The opportunity to do all of the things I love on my terms: business owner, wife, mom and friend.
Darcy Jerome Kealy
1
Minneapolis
Who is your role model or mentor? All of the women in my life who know the secret: that happy girls make the prettiest girls.
Portrait by Jamie Schultz
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Do what makes your heart sing!
Specialties: Invitations, Stationery and Other Paper Goodness 612.382.9989, prettygirldesigns.com facebook.com/prettygirldesigns
2
Pumpz & Company 3335 Galleria, Edina, 952.926.2252 pumpzco.com, Twitter: @pumpzco
Fashionable. Unique. Inviting. Pumpz & Company is the place to find your future favorites—shoes, handbags, jewelry, accessories—with a helpful and experienced staff. Pumpz & Company buyers travel the world to discover classic and trend-right styles to fit your lifestyle. Located in Edina Galleria, Pumpz & Company is a convenient, fun shopping experience that will change the way you accessorize!
Q&A What makes your business unique? We travel to Milan, Paris, and Tel Aviv to find products that aren’t represented locally. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? After 13 years in this business, the best part has to be the relationships that I’ve built with vendors, customers and staff. What is the best advice you’ve been given? You don’t have to do it all yourself. Surround yourself with talented people who complement each other and the needs of the business. Photos by B Johnson Photos
182
Marlys Badzin (standing middle) with her staff
What is the biggest perk about owning a small business? Staying up on fashion and trends keeps me young—and I love having an inside view of what people will be wearing next season! 183
redshoes26 design 612.695.4366 redshoes26design.com, Twitter: @redshoes26
Clean. Stylish. Imaginative. redshoes26 design is a full-service creative resource that specializes in custom wedding and event invitation suites, branding and greeting cards. Owner Christy Johnson uses her skills as a graphic designer, illustrator and typography nerd to create one-of-a-kind designs for clients who are looking for something that expresses exactly who they are. She is often told that her wedding suite designs are “unlike anything else out there.”
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? I’m a one-stop shop. I do the concept and design work, as well as coordinate printing and pick up and delivery of the final product. I make the process easy.
What is your personal motto? Keep print alive! There is nothing like the tactile nature of a paper invitation to communicate that the event will be special. Plus, who doesn’t like getting something cool—and not junk mail—in their mailbox? Christy Johnson 184
Photos by Sewell Photography
What can’t you simply live without in your business? My open-minded clients! They tell me their stories and let me run wild with my imagination. It’s so fun to transform their details and personalities into a stylish, customized design.
185
What would you like customers to know about your business? Friends and family make the world go round. So tell them! Often! Our app helps make relationships stronger with the ease of technology and the grace of stylish correspondence.
Photos by Kara Kurth
Q&A
What can’t you simply live without in your business? Our team. I am constantly awed and humbled by the talent that is our company. Creative, lovely people who love what we do and love who we do it with. What is the best advice you’ve been given? To succeed, you don’t have to be right every time, you just have to be right more often than you are wrong. Don’t be afraid to leap. Be afraid of standing still. Erin Newkirk
Red Stamp redstamp.com, Twitter: @redstamp
Modern. Personal. Mobile. Red Stamp believes sending correspondence is not only good form, it’s also just plain nice. With the rise of e-everything, there are so many more ways to communicate than ever before—which is why Red Stamp developed an amazing app. Now you can text, email, post on Facebook, tweet and/or mail gorgeous paper postcards right from your mobile device. The Red Stamp app has been featured in Real Simple, InStyle, Matchbook magazine and more.
186
187
What makes your business unique? Traveling with my father to antique shows across the country allows me to collect one-of-a-kind items for my designs from diverse places. What is the best advice you’ve been given? Get to know others in your field. Having great connections will be an asset throughout your business.
Photos by Wild Olive Restorations and Photography
Q&A
What or who inspires you? Sitting in my studio with parts and pieces from across the country and creating unique, new designs with items that would have otherwise been forgotten. What do you CRAVE? Digging through piles of vintage pieces, never knowing what kind of inspiration I will get from the items I pick out. Jennifer Kroeger
Relic Charm 651.235.6567 reliccharm.com, Twitter: @reliccharm
Feminine. Unique. Vintage. Relic Charm uses vintage pieces to create jewelry with a fresh, new look that pairs beautifully with today’s fashions. From statement pieces to your everyday signature necklace, Relic Charm can satisfy your craving. Selling at local events and shops around town, Relic Charm also holds an occasional sale as J & E Antiques in Saint Paul where they offer vintage home decor.
188
189
What makes your business unique? I acquire the stones and agates from India and Brazil, then string the perfect combination of beads all on a leather cord. What would you like customers to know about your business? I have experience. For more than a decade I lent my style expertise to retail giants. I traveled to fashion capitals of the world, all the while cultivating my eye for design that I now use for my own jewelry line. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? The ability to make my own decisions; to make my own mistakes; to learn something new every day; and to meet and work with incredibly talented people who support my vision. Robin Fisher
Photos by Rebecca Sabot Photography except portrait by Melissa Louis Johnson Photography
Q&A
Robin Fisher Jewelry 612.850.3851 robinfisherjewelry.com
Original. Stunning. Distinctive. From the beginning, Robin’s love for accessories, specifically jewelry, fueled an entrepreneurial spirit that she tapped into after leaving Target Corporation to raise her three children. Robin recalls taking apart some of her own necklaces and playing around with the pieces. The result was a sliced agate necklace strung on a leather cord—and the inspiration for the Robin Fisher Jewelry line.
190
191
What do you CRAVE?
To always be challenged— it’s what keeps me learning and growing. Laurie Pyle of Cocoa & Fig
St. Paul Farmers’ Market by Elijah Parker
Room No. 3 4948 France Ave S, Edina, 952.746.3003 roomno3.com
Sophisticated. Subtle. Luxe. Step into Room No. 3 and be transported to a relaxing retreat... a place where you can lounge and love in simple luxury. Room No. 3 masters the idea of subtle sexiness with their collections of lingerie and loungewear. Room No. 3 offers all displayed decor and accessories for sale, so, whether your heart craves a new treat for yourself, your love, or your home, you’ll find it at Room No. 3.
Q&A What makes your business unique? Everything in the store is a sensory delight... the scent of a burning candle, the touch of a spa robe, lace of the lingerie, all of it.
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Own your business before you actually open your door: live, breathe, talk, believe, love your creation. By living it, you will be trustworthy to your customer. We live to love. What is your personal motto? Love is contagious. Owners Beth Griesgraber and Jessica Strong with Judy McCoy (middle) 194
Photos by Cadence Cornelius
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? We are living our dream. We are proud our children will grow up learning by our example that dreams can come true!
195
Main photo and right detail by Callahan & Company Photography additional photos by Matt Blum
Q&A What makes your business unique? Rox designs are exclusive, one-of-a-kind treasures. What would you like customers to know about your business? Rox Jewelry is sold in 22 boutiques and jewelers worldwide. What can’t you simply live without in your business? Travel. It’s what makes Rox unique. Our stones are sourced from wonderful bazaars, shopping districts and peddlers around the globe. What is the best advice you’ve been given? Never give up.
Rox Minneapolis Jewelry
What is your biggest motivator? Not accepting failure. Robyne Robinson
2205 California St NE, Studio 403, Minneapolis, 612.834.5027 roxmpls.com, Twitter: @roxmplsjewelry
Exotic. Sensuous. Sophisticated. There’s no other jewelry quite like Rox— each piece is handcrafted with gemstones sourced from exotic locations. Our philosophy is to heighten your natural bond with the earth. Rox uses the finest artisan metals to create a luxurious look. Featured in Redbook magazine and on “The Tyra Banks Show,” Rox is found in boutiques and fine jewelers throughout the Twin Cities metro area.
196
197
What makes your business unique? Each invitation is custom created for the individual event and client. No cookie-cutter invites here! Set the first impression of your life’s special moments with an invitation from Save the Date.
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photographyv
Q&A
What would you like customers to know about your business? I provide a personalized service with every event I handle. I craft every piece with only the most beautiful high-quality papers and printing processes. It’s all eye candy! What is your personal motto? James Michener once said, “I love the swirl and swing of words as they tangle with human emotions.”
Gilah Mashaal
What or who inspires you? Color, swirly fonts and the clients I am creating for.
Save the Date 612.269.0763 savethedateinvites.com, Twitter: @savedateinvites
Gorgeous. Unique. Personal. Save the Date creates impeccable custom invitations with conciergequality service. Distinctive, beautifully crafted invitations from Save the Date are the perfect opening act to your special moment, adding flair and panache or understated elegance to weddings, bar mitzvahs, birthday celebrations, baby announcements or graduation parties. Save the Date tailors every invitation to match your personal style and budget. 198
199
Photos by JanellePhoto
What are your most popular products or services? My signature pieces: The Paisley and The Spy Necklace. Both are extremely versatile and can be worn in over five different ways. What is your motto or theme song? “Wear Something Different.” How do you relax? Yoga, leisurely walks, reading a good book or magazine.
Sara Beth Goldfine
What do you CRAVE? Innovative designs and versatility. I’m always trying to push the boundaries on my creations and figure out new ways that a single piece of jewelry can be multifunctional.
SBG Designs The Warehouse District, Minneapolis Innovative. Stylish. One-of-a-kind. Sara Beth Goldfine attracts jewelry connoisseurs from around the world with her extraordinary line of timeless adornments. SBG Designs has been featured on celebrities and in fashion publications such as InStyle, Redbook, In Touch Weekly and Minnesota Bride. The collection can be found at specialty boutiques throughout the country as well as online at sbgdesigns. com. Private jewelry parties and showings can be arranged at the SBG Designs Showroom.
1
Minneapolis
Specialties: Custom Designer Jewelry, Original Designs, Engagement and Wedding Jewelry By appointment only: 600 Washington Ave N, Ste 350, Minneapolis 612.867.6079, sbgdesigns.com facebook.com/SBGDesigns, Twitter: @SBGDesigns
2
Photos by Sewell Photography
Q&A What makes your business unique? You will be getting my personal attention to detail at every stage of the process, from the first phone call or email to the final editing of your photographs. What would you like customers to know about your business? Years of experience have taught me how to deal with the most challenging photography situations. My clients trust that I can capture the unique beauty in every subject and setting. What is your biggest motivator? I want to tell my subject’s story in an honest and beautiful way. What do you CRAVE? Color and light!
Sewell Photography
Jennie Sewell
612.799.1245 sewellphotography.com, Twitter: @sewellphoto
Captivating. Authentic. Timeless. Sewell Photography is an award-winning boutique photography studio specializing in on-site documentary and lifestyle photography, including weddings, engagement, post-wedding, expectant mother, child and family photo sessions. Jennie’s photographs are often seen in local and national magazines and blogs. Sewell Photography is based in Minneapolis and is available for travel worldwide.
200
201
SieEnt
Q&A
612.810.5888 sieent.com, Twitter: @SieEnt
What makes your business unique? We create games for women who want to change the world.
Inspiring. Delightful. Fun. SieEnt (pronounced SEE-ent) develops and designs engaging video games with women in mind for your personal computer, mobile phone and game consoles. They release games in an episodic format. Like your favorite TV show, each episode provides 60 to 90 minutes of play time. Their first title, a five episode 2D science fiction murder mystery, is set to release in early 2012.
What would you like customers to know about your business? The majority of our team is female. We’re women creating entertainment for our sisters, mothers, daughters, nieces and friends. What can’t you simply live without in your business? Social media. The support we get from our Twitter and Facebook fans means the world to us.
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t be afraid to ask for help! You’ll be surprised by how many people truly want to help you and see you succeed.
Jacqueline Urick and Elizabeth Tupper 202
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Watching a project come to life right before our eyes and then watching it grow into something more beautiful than we could have ever imagined.
203
Skin Therapease 1907 E Wayzata Blvd, #120, Wayzata, 952.404.0000 skintherapease.com
Healthy. Sincere. Energized. Skin Therapease’s philosophy is preventive and proactive skin care with emphasis on age management. They offer a full-service skin health and skin care clinic. Skin Therapease takes great pride to encourage a holistic approach, which includes consideration to products, ingredients, customized services, diet, enviromental issues and lifestyles. Other services include: photo-rejuvenation, laser resurfacing, profractional, skin tightening, laser hair reduction, vascular, Botox and injections.
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? We are here for our clients’ and customers’ skin care needs, considering all skin care options. What can’t you simply live without in your business? The opportunity to grow. What is the best advice you’ve been given? Follow your passion, and focus. What is your biggest motivator? Happy clients!
Photos by Elijah Parker
204
What do you CRAVE? I would like to set the highest of standards in the skin health/care arena, letting clients know that we are focused on their best skin care interests. Pat Scherven 205
What makes your business unique? Our flexibility in service offerings, attention to the unique needs of each client, and out-of-the box creativity that cuts through the clutter and makes a splash!
Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? We’re addicted. As social media addicts, we can’t help but stay on top of the ever-changing world of social media. Our knowledge in this space has been very valuable to clients. What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Be a fearless female. Refuse to sit back and simply watch the world turn. Do what you love. Make a difference.
Martha McCarthy & Emily Pritchard
Who is your role model or mentor? Ann Winblad: UST alumna, experienced entrepreneur and fearless female. She’s one brilliant badass. What is your personal motto? “Find something you love to do and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.” —Harvey MacKay
206
The Social Lights 651.962.4551 thesocial-lights.com, Twitter: @SocialLightUp
Fresh. Fun. Strategic. The Social Lights take a creative approach to social media, business communications and event marketing. This innovative marketing agency assists companies as they dive into digital by infusing creativity into custom campaigns made exclusively for the Web. They are experts at integrating the physical (location and live events) with the digital (online presence) to create highly dynamic marketing campaigns. 207
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
Q&A What makes your business unique? We are the in-between place for those people who want more than a spa facial, but don’t want the clinical walls of a dermatology office. What would you like customers to know about your business? It is not just a day at the “spa.” The treatments are indulgent, but most importantly, you see results. The knowledge and tools are given to make that happen. What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Follow your instincts and stay true to your beliefs.
Stacia Wilson and Sarah Kurn Skincare
Stacia Wilson and Sarah Kurn
What is your biggest motivator? When someone comes in and says that a complete stranger told them that their skin looks great.
86 Mahtomedi Ave, Mahtomedi, 651.426.6040 staciawilsonskincare.net, sarahkurnskincare.com, Twitter: @stacia_skincare
Specialized. Expert. Passionate. Stacia Wilson and Sarah Kurn Skincare is a unique skin boutique. When you walk in, you enter a girly shop with all the must-have skincare and makeup products. They recommend getting one of their amazing, results-driven skin care treatments before starting a skin care regime. They then customize a facial that is right for you with peels, microdermabrasion or oxygen therapy. 208
209
StormSister Spatique 612.716.5480 stormsister.biz, Twitter: @StormSister
3waybeauty 612.716.5480 3waybeauty.com, Twitter: @3waybeauty
Expert. Sassy. Distinctive. StormSister Spatique is an online beauty shopping experience that carries lotions, potions and serums for hair, skin, nails and body. Owner and founder Becky Sturm, a beauty industry maven who grew up in the salon and spa industry, is also the inventor of the three-way shampoo, shower and shave grooming bar shhh. Wanna try a three-way?
Q&A
What would you like customers to know about your business? The design, manufacturing and printing for 3waybeauty is all done locally. Our packaging is 100 percent compostable, recyclable and is manufactured at a family-owned mill that runs on 100 percent hydro-electric power. Who is your role model or mentor? The female small business community here in the Twin Cities. These women have given me so much love and support during these recession years. It is immeasurable! Becky Sturm 210
Photos courtesy of StormSister Spatique
What makes your business unique? All beauty and grooming products have my personal stamp of approval. 3waybeauty products were blindtested by a salon and my friends and family for complete effectiveness.
211
Studio C Designs 6005 Wayzata Blvd, Ste 100, St Louis Park, 952.797.7777 studiocjewelry.com, Twitter: @sarad123
Custom. Exquisite. Luxury. Studio C Designs is a boutique custom jeweler featuring one-of-a-kind collections of colorful gem and pearl jewelry in precious metals. At Studio C Designs, each piece is handcrafted on the premises to customer specification and all fine goods and products are sourced ethically. Studio C Designs offers personal services for engraving, repairs, antique restoration of jewelry and appraisal services.
Q&A What makes your business unique? Studio C Designs uniquely creates and builds all jewelry designs in-house using modern technology and ethically sourced gems, metals and pearls, by JA Certified Bench Jewelers. What can’t you simply live without in your business? In my business, I cannot live without my laser welder; as a business philosophy, I couldn’t live without fun and laughter in the workplace. Photos by Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography
212
What or who inspires you? I am inspired by the dynamic women leaders I know in business and in the jewelry industry who juggle business, social and family while living their lives to the fullest!
Sara D. Commers 213
Style-Architects 612.326.9020 style-architects.com, Twitter: @StyleArchitects
Chic. Sophisticated. Modern. Style-Architects offers stylish services for the modern business and sophisticate. With a wealth of experience, they are a local “dream team” that offers public relations, marketing, event planning, concierge and wardrobe styling services. The creative team consists of Christina HolmSandok, Elizabeth Plaetz Lori, Ranosha Coffelt and Kelly Showalter.
Q&A What makes your business unique? We work both with businesses and individuals. People have brand images just like companies—we are here to help define it.
Who is your role model or mentor? My grandmother. She was a hardworking entrepreneur with a great reputation and an amazing wardrobe!
Christina Holm-Sandok 214
What is your personal motto? Like a swan, we’re graceful on top and paddling like crazy underneath.
Photos by Canary Grey Photography
What would you like customers to know about your business? Our team is built of discerning women with media relations, marketing, lifestyle editorial, merchandising and event planning experience. Our diverse backgrounds allow us to give our clients well-rounded service.
215
What makes your business unique? I’m known as the jack-of-all-trades, as Style-Infused Living is not just an interior design house. You can also hire Style-Infused Living for home and office organization, event planning, styling, landscaping design... you name it. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Watching my business evolve and take shape in new ways every day. Following my passion for all things design. It’s exciting to create something from scratch and watch it grow.
Portrait by Meghan Doll Photography additional photos by Cinda Pfeil
Q&A
What is the best advice you’ve been given? Be bold and confident!
Cinda Pfeil
Style-Infused Living 952.484.2204 styleinfusedliving.com, Twitter: @styleinfusedliv
Genuine. Inspired. Tailored. Style-Infused Living is a boutique interior design house providing custom design and decorating, space planning and organization, and project management oversight. Whether it’s a personal touch to framed art, shaping a closet to show its beauty, or coordinating wall colors to give life and flow to a home, Cinda Pfeil creates and refines the essence of each unique project—infusing your life with style!
216
217
sweet praises for home & life Minneapolis, Minnesota Authentic. Spiritual. Joyous. sweet praises is an e-boutique featuring modern and refined Christian-inspired gifts and accessories. Product offerings are sourced throughout the United States and abroad, providing the customer with an exclusive, uniquely inspirational piece. The small, dynamic team behind sweet praises is committed to honoring their beliefs, while providing an exceptional experience for their customers.
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Listen to your instincts, build a trustworthy team around your dream and have a lion’s heart—escape the ordinary!
Specialties: Christian-inspired Gifts and Accessories sweetpraises.com, Twitter: @sweetpraises
Photos by JanellePhoto and Darcy Jerome
1
Minneapolis
What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom to continually refine your vision, design your day and do more of what you love. Who is your role model or mentor? My grandmother and mother— two fearless, wise women.
Shawn A. Anderson
How do you relax? In the company of my little family— our home is our sanctuary.
2
“Always reflect on life and decisions with an eternal perspective.” —Shawn A. Anderson, sweet praises | for home & life
Photo by Darcy Jerome
What makes your business unique? Every day is different. Every client and couple is unique. Every event is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion. There is no “typical day” at Table 6! What would you like customers to know about your business? It’s all about them! My passion is turning their ideas, dreams and visions into incredible events that they are able to fully enjoy with their loved ones.
Main photo by Happily Ever After Photography, portrait by Sewell Photography, left detail by Gina Lang Photography, middle detail by Emily Griffith Photography, right detail by Red Ribbon Studio
Q&A
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? The thrill of every small success. You devote so much time, energy and passion into your business that every little victory is sweet.
Stephanie Johnson
Table 6 Productions 651.785.6234 table6productions.com, Twitter: @Table6MN
Meticulous. Creative. Sophisticated. Table 6 Productions is a boutique wedding and event planning company. Weddings are their specialty and their services extend to all personal events and special occasions. The planners at Table 6 act as confidantes, style connoisseurs, etiquette experts, financial advisors, personal assistants and detail divas—there to guide you through every step of planning the most memorable and unique event possible.
218
219
Photos by Stacy Dunlap
Q&A What makes your business unique? We are mobile and specialize in athletic development for youth and adults, from one-on-one to sports team training. Find us at various locations all over the Twin Cities through our many established partnerships. What would you like customers to know about your business? You get results. We understand training and we take you to the next level. Goals range from weight loss to improving pace, enhancing form/technique, or simply working to get quicker, faster, stronger, leaner and better.
Tiger Athletics
What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Be ready to be on call 24/7! It takes a lot longer than one thinks for an idea to come to fruition, but the journey is worth it. Stacie Clark
612.695.8770 tigerathletics.com, Twitter: @TigerAthletics
Athletic. Authentic. Awe-Inspiring. TIGER ATHLETICS is a high energy, mobile athletic company that provides unparalleled functional training programs for all ages. Co-founders Stacie and Chris Clark offer highly skilled, professional coaching within a dynamic, out-ofthe-gym environment. TIGER ATHLETICS sets a completely new paradigm in athletic training. It is real. It is intense. It is training for life. TIGER ATHLETICS was awarded “Best Trainers in Twin Cities� by Minnesota Monthly magazine. 220
221
What makes your business unique? The whole restaurant is in a good mood. I truly love what I do, and this passion trickles into the staff, the food and the overall vibe of Tiger Sushi.
Photos by B Johnson Photos
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? Every sushi bar in the world gives you soy sauce. Yawn. At Tiger, your sushi comes with our signature homemade “Tosa” and lively “Tiger” sauces. What is your biggest motivator? Recognition. The words, “I love your restaurant,” never get old. Having people enthusiastically respond to something that I created is what keeps me going. What is your personal motto? People matter. Not things. Lisa Edevold
Tiger Sushi Mall of America, 952.876.9410 2841 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, 612.874.1800 tigersushiusa.com
Bold. Fusion. Fresh. Tiger Sushi opened at MOA in 2003, in the shadows of every major national chain store. And right away, this tiny, little indie sushi bar began shaking things up. Their playful, inventive approach to food combines flavors from all over the world, including Mediterranean, French, Thai and Indonesian. Tiger Sushi 2, the gorgeous fullservice incarnation, opened in the edgy, ultra-hip Lyn-Lake neighborhood in 2007. 222
223
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
Q&A What makes your business unique? We make cooking and entertaining easy and fun like it’s supposed to be! Our recipes, menus, entertaining tips and products get you out of the kitchen and into your party. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? The ability to control my destiny. And traveling around the country to find great products and ideas to share with my customers to make their everyday entertaining easy and fun. What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Fasten your seatbelt, you’re in for the ride of your life!
Unleash Your Inner Foodie
What is the best advice you’ve been given? Never be afraid to ask for help. DeeAnn McArdle
612.860.5961 unleashyourinnerfoodie.com, Twitter: @yourinnerfoodie
Creative. Fun. Memorable. Unleash Your Inner Foodie is an online business that helps people create memorable experiences for their family and friends by combining great food with easy, fun entertaining. DeeAnn believes that food is the best setting for truly connecting with people. Their unique products and services help you achieve that simple, casual entertaining lifestyle we all want! 224
225
VICTORY 3505 W 44th St, Minneapolis, 612.926.8200 shopvictory.com, Twitter: @kerryciardelli
Elegant. Chic. On-trend Established in 2003 by Kerry Ciardelli, interior designer and entrepreneur, VICTORY is a distinctive design studio and retail store in Linden Hills, Minneapolis. Kerry’s signature style combines antiques, luxurious fabrics and modern pieces to create a look that’s all her own. Whether you’re looking for a lovely hostess gift, a new piece of furniture or an entirely new look for a beloved home, you’ll find it at VICTORY.
Q&A
What would you like customers to know about your business? Victory Home & Interiors was inspired by my passion for travel and my love of beauty, style, entertaining, interior design, elegance, and all things vintage and modern.
Kerry Ciardelli 226
Photos by Shannon Tacheny of Feather Blue Studios
What makes your business unique? Victory Home & Interiors is one of the only independent retail and design resources in the Twin Cities. I offer interior design services, furniture, lighting, rugs, antiques, accessories, books, jewelry, candles, bedding and gifts. Victory is the exclusive Twin Cities resource for Madeline Weinrib fabrics, Christopher Spitzmiller lamps and my own line of pillows and other home accessories.
227
What makes your business unique? The Vintage Jewelry Collection features unique, hard-to-find vintage jewelry. We provide an educational experience so our customers understand the historical importance of their pieces.
Photos by Dustin R. DuFault
Q&A
What would you like customers to know about your business? We are a full-service jeweler with one of the largest selections of vintage costume and estate jewelry. We are focused on providing our customers with a fun and educational shopping experience. Who is your role model or mentor? My parents. My father worked three jobs to finish college when my sister, brothers and I were children. My mother showed me the beauty and history of vintage jewelry. Lorinda Judge Ims
The Vintage Jewelry Collection 8 Third St NW, Osseo, 763.315.6577 thevintagejewelrycollection.com, Twitter: @VintageJewelCo
Edgy. Unique. Educated. The Vintage Jewelry Collection showcases an array of pristine jewelry from the late 19th century to today. The collection is expertly curated from an expansive inventory that features designers whose contributions have shaped the jewelry industry. Vintage jewelry is a wearable work of art with history—it is a smart investment. 228
229
Photos by B Johnson Photos
Q&A What advice would you give women who are starting a business? Live, act and dress for the success you crave. What is your biggest motivator? Being a mother of four boys. I want them to see that their mother is a successful business woman and teach them a strong work ethic. What is your personal motto? “I say it, I be it!” My life will be what I make it and success is the only option. What can’t you simply live without in your business? My husband! He is my rock. He keeps me focused and kicks my drive into high gear.
Volume Salon
Jenny Leffring
4000 Annapolis Ln, Ste 104, Plymouth, 763.557.0896 volumesalon.com, Twitter: @Volume_Salon
Beautiful. Comfortable. Affordable. Walking through the front door of Volume Salon will make you question if you are really in west metro. The brand-new, cutting-edge decor and talented, friendly staff will make you feel as if you just stepped into a NYC salon. Volume Salon offers highend hair services at affordable prices and top professional hair care products.
230
231
Write Away 612.822.0002 writeaway.com, Twitter: @WriteAwayPaper
Personalized. Special. Pretty. For 15 years, Write Away has produced uniquely personalized stationery and gifts with character and style. They are now delighted to offer customized invitations and announcements for any occasion. Their holiday cards are vibrant, creative and really make an exceptional statement.
Q&A What would you like customers to know about your business? Our new line of custom invitations and announcements have expanded our capabilities. We accommodate your vision or help you create something special to set the tone for your event. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur? Working with a friend, providing meaningful opportunities for women to create balance in their lives and loving our products!
Photos by Darin Back Photography
232
What or who inspires you? People who take the time to write meaningful words on paper. We really treasure them as much or more than any other gift.
Sarah Graff ands Meredith Johnson 233
Photos by Darin Back Photography
Q&A What makes your business unique? Yum! is about happy people serving great homemade food. We love what we do and hope it shows. What can’t you simply live without in your business? Passion, fresh food and hungry people. What is the biggest perk about owning a small business? Instant gratification... we think it, plan it and make it happen. If it goes well, it is a great feeling, if not, we learn, adapt and try again.
Yum! Kitchen and Bakery
Who is your role model or mentor? My parents are extraordinary. My mom is passionate and allowed me to make a mess in the kitchen. My dad is an entrepreneur and my instructor in business and life. Patti Soskin
4000 Minnetonka Blvd, St Louis Park, 952.922.4000 yumkitchen.com, Twitter: @YumKitchen
Yum. Homemade. Delicious. Yum! Kitchen and Bakery is the ultimate neighborhood restaurant serving fresh and friendly food that makes you smile. The bakery offers award-winning cakes, cupcakes, oversized cookies, ever-changing morning pastries and fair-trade coffee. The kitchen prepares seasonal soups and salads, sandwiches and entrees. Favorites include chicken soup, gumbo, apple harvest salad, fancy-schmancy tuna melt, Hugo’s Mahi tacos and Patticake, their signature chocolate cake with buttercream frosting. 234
235
What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur?
I believe in the rough individualism of the true American spirit. Kristi Berkvam Stratton of hunt & gather
Pillsbury building by Elijah Parker
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 Midwest is a celebration of women entrepreneurs that showcases some of the most creative, interesting and gutsy proprietors throughout our area. 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