The Spot Mag~ February 2021

CELEBRATING WOMEN IN BUSINESS

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February 2021 M IN DFUL NESS S PR I N G S T YLE TIPS C E LEBR I T Y EVENT PL AN N ER C O U RTN EY A JINCA

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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 21

IN THIS

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LE T TER F R OM TH E EDITOR

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CRYS TA L ’S R EA L ES TATE T IP S

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CRYS TA L ’S C H A MPI ONS

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E M OTION A L F OR EC A S T

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MI NDF ULN ES S

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N E TWOR K IN G IN 2 021

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W OMEN TO WATC H

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PR TIPS WI TH A N IK A

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N ATION A L F EATUR E

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D E S I GN ON A B UDGET W OMEN TO WATC H S P R I N G FA S HI ON

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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 21

Contributors

Crystal Swearingen

Anika Jackson

Lauren Grubb

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Tony Gonzalez

Angie Campbell

Sarah Kellogg

Ina Joseph

Brittany Swearingen

Amanda Gregory

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Crystal Clear Over these past six years after my divorce, there have been many things that did not turn out the way that I expected them to be. I went from being married with three children to a single mom on a commission-based job raising three daughters and trying to find my independence financially, mentally, and spiritually from someone I’ve been married to since I was 22.

With every new adventure, life presented further obstacles. Some were so deflating that I considered if I should quit but instead, I found ways to survive and learned the difference between surviving and thriving. These past few years opening Crystal’s Spot Cafe and Lounge, starting this magazine, and branching out and owning my real estate broker Crystal Clear Realty. I built the confidence I needed to explore outside my comfort zone, grow my self-confidence, and set an example for my daughters by going after my dreams.

Challenges and overcoming them are what really build character and allow us to build self-confidence.

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Crystal Swearingen Crystal Swearingen, Co-Founder | Editorial Director

The Spot Mag

@the.spot.mag

crystalsavesthedeal@gmail.com

EMOTIONAL REAL ESTATE FORECAST TIPS

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CRYSTAL’S CHAMPIONS

Clare’s Community Closet: Clare Ndergakura

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What inspired you to start Clare’s Community Closet?

To be honest there was a chain of events that inspired me to start the Community Closet.

Around mid-September I noticed a “call” for blankets and other winter items for the local community centers who usually serve those in need. For some reason I just kept noticing it over and over. I was already volunteering with Food Not Bombs (well I volunteered once and then had to run and make the meal (for 60 people and I decided to see if I could bring clothes to it. The clothes with the meal combination was a hit! So I just kept going. I kept

bringing clothes on Mondays, and it gradually just turned into what do I need to sustain this?

Keeping clothes at my house with my new boyfriend and my sweet 6 year old was not going to work. So I started looking for spaces and Clare’s Community Closet began.

I will also say that I love to give back in my own way. I’ve had the kind of life that makes you understand there is always time to help someone and there’s always enough even if you share.

What has been the most difficult obstacle in getting the project started?

For me creating comes easy. I will say what has been difficult is maintaining. Making sure I can still function: live my life and support myself and my child. Helping can often take over a person’s life. All the emails, all the calls, all the people who have need. It can be overwhelming when you only have a few volunteers who come every once in a while and you as a single mom still have to maintain clients, clean a house and homeschool during a pandemic.

Where can people donate for this cause?

Any and all donation amounts are accepted!

While I build this to a proper 501c3 help with my work as well the community needs requests are much appreciated. clarescommunitycloset@gmail.com is the Paypal account. Checks and cash are always accepted as well. Send checks to 2020 W 9th apt 2 Lawrence KS 66044.

What are some of the biggest needs you are seeing in the community?

What tips would you offer other individuals looking to use grants for a new venture?

So I was pretty excited to be able to apply for a grant from the United Way. It had much less restrictions than other Grants do, most expect you to already be a 501c3 and have much more experience. While the Grant was made in such a way to be more helpful for community members of color to be successful in these projects, I will say that the process is still exhausting.

When you do the work and the proof is there from the community, why then do you have to repeat it over and over on a document? Good works should be enough to be supported.

Tips I would offer: be prepared to prove yourself over and over. Find help and use all the resources you can for searching for Grants.

Your local Public Library should have resources.

And KEEP GOING. Don’t let anyone steal your joy or make you doubt. When you are called to do a thing, just accept the call and roll with it.

Everything will fall into place.

There is a great need for Community Services.

By this I mean, yes I am helping to give attention to and possibly a temporary solution to needs, but people need more. They need options and programs to get into stable/sustainable housing.

Mental health services that are free are very accessible so they can maintain life as well. Social Workers and social agencies need to be given more money and more respect. Because they do the real work and make the change happen.

The Willow Domestic Violence Shelter and the Shelter are just a few that make such a huge difference in our community.

Crystal’s Champions is dedicated to strong and inspirational women and organizations that are making a difference in the community. To nominate a Champion, email Crystal at Crystalsavesthedeal@gmail.com

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785.410.3372 ajaneoat@gmail.com Find me on Facebook!

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!n o is s a p y m

Clare Nderagakura

si t c e j o r p uro Y

A Jane of All Trades.

EMOTIONAL FORECAST

February Emotional Forecast February sweet February. We’ve made it to love month in this amazing new year and it’s a great reminder that “all we need is love”. I’m feeling this through so many conversations and interactions I’ve had lately with my clients. The emotion for this month is not only love but the need for it. Take some time to really focus on who you share love with. Sometimes we may not feel they’re as deserving or even as eager to receive it but that’s not your concern. This is your time to surrender. Surrender the love in heart and ask the universe to guide it to who needs it. You’ll start to see a multitude of doors opening for you when you free your love. Acquaintances and new relationships will start to bloom. Your heart will feel less heavy and the beauty is, you’ll never run out of it. I like to picture love as butterflies being released. You’re thrilled to watch them flutter freely and get a sense of happiness when one returns and lands on you but none the less allow them to go find they’re own way.

You’ll be more joyful and have a sense of purpose once releasing your love from its cage.

Love truly does heal. Start to use this emotional gift as your way to manifesting exactly what you want in your life. As soon as you filter your desires through the lens of love the answers become much clearer. I could give you a list of quotes from great authors or even the Bible about love. It truly is the answer! Something so simple as this 4 letter world can move mountains! Take this powerful word this month and make your dreams come into fruition. Do it with love, do it with purpose, do it for you! At the end of it all remember ,

“Where there is love there is life”. ~ Mahatma Gandhi

Happy Valentine’s Day. Blessings and Love The Southern Psychic

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MINDFULNESS

MINDFULNESS IN ACTION

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2020 will be a defining year for our society. I know it has been for me. All the pain, anger, and grief of the past year, we have hopefully formed a stronger bond with gratitude for what is. Embracing all of these experiences is a mindfulness practice. Mindfulness has become a buzzword in our culture, for which I am grateful, and with all repackaging of ancient traditions, they tend to get watered down and misunderstood. Mindfulness can be an act and intentional practice, and it is indeed more of a lifestyle and way of being.

Deep breathing exercises, meditation, a yoga practice; are wonderful expressions of mindfulness. But, if you judge your posture or compare your warrior pose to the classmate on the next mat, it begins to lose its essence. Consider mindfulness as a perspective and an experience, lenses through which we view the world and ourselves. Mindfulness is focus and awareness with intention in the present moment. We can live this way fully, or at least we can do our very best to try. We can be mindful while cooking dinner, working on our business plan,

playing with our children, having a glass of wine with our close friends, or conversing with a stranger in line at Starbucks. These can all be mindful expressions as powerful as a deep breath.

There are a lot of guided mindfulness practices to be found on the web, and I encourage you to find a few that work for you. Let go. Just breathe. Vibrate higher. More buzzwords, while accurate, can be confusing without some behavioral direction. Below I offer ways of thinking about your further development of living mindfully with each moment.

Embrace Change.

It is the one and only constant in our lives. Far too much of our unhappiness is fueled by our resistance to change and attachment to what we believe “should” be. When we work toward acceptance that ALL things change, we can more effectively adapt to changes that occur. Resisting or denying the forces of change in our lives, we disrupt our ability to find the constructive elements of that change. We can

master the notion of “letting go” by accepting this truth. We can increase our awareness of when we are inflexible, as we feel the tension in our body or emotion. Pay attention to that and work toward noticing how we can welcome changes, for better or worse.

Go with the Flow.

In DBT, we often call this mindfulness of participation. We can be incredibly self-conscious, particularly in environments of discomfort and newness. Our culture tends to praise taking the “bull by the horns,” which can absolutely be a positive quality as a leader and entrepreneur; and we must balance this with allowing for the current of life to carry us at times as well. When we force change, it may be based upon expectations and beliefs that leave us ill-equipped. It is mindful to move and act when we are ready.

And it is difficult to ascertain when we are truly “ready”; this is where we can trust our intuition and instinct. Sometimes it is best to do nothing and master the art of observation before action.

ness of when we are judging our experience and ability, rather than observing for what it is. When we reduce judgment, we are living in more harmony with the world around us. Judging ourselves is one point of view and completely discounts other perspectives. Non-judgment allows for greater clarity of what is, and allow us to embrace change, move with the flow of the world and practice greater patience.

Here is to a more mindful self in the new year.

Anthony Gonzalez, LCSW, QS Alere Emotional Health LLC

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Practice Patience.

My grandfather was an avid gardener. As a child, I would work with him in the summers and watch him tend to his tomatoes and cucumbers.

No matter how diligently he tilled and watered the plants, they grew at their own pace. He waited, trusting they would achieve their full potential in time. Our lives and businesses are in many ways like his plants. We can be mindful of the simplicity and compassion it requires to wait, active inaction. We often are driven by comparison to others, where we think we should be, rather than allowing for our own growth process. Allow for greater mindfulness of where we can exercise more consistent patience in our lives.

Non-judgment.

Perfect does not exist. End of story. You are flawed; you will make mistakes; you will fall short, you don’t know it all. We judge this about ourselves, and this creates suffering. One core of mindful living is to heighten our aware-

Creative Networking in 2021

By Amanda Gregory

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It is safe to say that 2020 will go down as the year nobody expected, but it will also be remembered as the year we adapted, overcame, and got creative. In the grand scheme, 2020 made us think outside the box. But look at us now - facing 2021 with open eyes and open hearts. Hoping the worst is behind us but knowing that “normal” may still be far off.

In the world of networking, - getting creative has been the name of the game. Almost two years ago, I founded Lawrence Lady Boss Project here in Lawrence, Kansas. We had just gotten in our one-year anniversary party, where we thought the flu was the worst of our concerns when the pandemic hit the very next month. Networking was put on hold! Like

so many other organizations and industries, networking thrives off person-to-person contact and interaction. So how does one find ways to connect when a literal pandemic hits? They think outside of the box.

For Lawrence Lady Boss Project, that looked like virtual networking events, socially distanced in-person events and cancelling or changing plans to basically make it work as things constantly changed. When I look towards 2021, I hope to get back to in person networking, but I know it may be months before we can even attempt that. So what’s a person to do when you need to network with other people in your community?

Here are five ways to creatively network this spring.

1. Join a virtual happy hour networking event.

If you are local to Lawrence, the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce has been putting together virtual events for most of the pandemic. By attending the virtual events and seeing people in your community, even virtually, you can start to put faces to names so that when the in-person events return, you’ve already got a jump start on whose who.

2. Say yes to an opportunity that may make you uncomfortable. Did someone ask you to be on their podcast, but it makes you nervous? Say yes! You can hide behind a screen or phone and save yourself the worry. Did someone ask you to hashtag or share something about their business on social media, but you are so not tech-savvy? Now is the time to learn! Again - you can hide behind a screen and there is the option to delete or edit if you make a mistake. Did an opportunity come up to expand your business but you just aren’t sure if now is the time? Do it!

Believe in yourself and jump out of that comfort zone.

3. Slide into a small business’ direct messages and introduce yourself. It’s cliche and awkward, but if you share your admiration, you can build a connection off a single message. It can grow and expand, and it may even lead to our #4 tip.

4. A collaboration. One of the best ways to expand your network is to connect with other businesses and bosses and grow together. Have you always pictured your product in a certain store? Propose a collaboration. Love the way someone carries themselves and want them to represent your brand? Propose a collaboration. Just love a companies product and want to do a giveaway? Propose a collaboration. The worst thing that can happen is they say no. But you never know if you don’t try!

5. RSVP to one of Lawrence Lady Boss Project’s virtual Networking Night Outs. I hope that 2021 will bring us back together in person, but until then, we will meet virtually for an opportunity to introduce ourselves and win some giveaways. We know it’s not the same, but it’s still a great way to be present in your community.

2021 feels like a fresh start after a year like 2020. All that creative thinking we established last year has to follow us to this year. Imagine what we can do if we always think outside the box regarding all things business, but especially networking.

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CHANNELING THE HOT SPRINGS EXPERIENCE Mud & Lotus is an outdoor soaking tub and sauna tucked away in a private garden in downtown Lawrence, Kansas.

Reserve an hour for yourself and/or your friends.

Book online at mud-lotus.com or call 785-371-1141 @mud.lotus.lawrence

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Alterations and Custom Apparel Set An Appointment Today!

(785) 218-1710

Women to Watch: Deean Yeoh & Agnes Zhanr

Deean Yeoh & Agnes Zhan: Changing the Intimate Apparel Game, One Bra at a Time From bralette lovers to breast cancer survivors

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When you try to sum up the experience of womanhood, what do you think of? Our bodies, our relationships, our determination. Best friends and business partners Deean Yeoh and Agnes Zhan both had one thing in mind: lingerie.

luxurious post-mastectomy bras were in short supply, particularly in Asia (where Agnes and I grew up). As we continue to develop the brand, we realize the same can be said for many marginalized groups that haven’t been catered to by the traditional lingerie industry.”

The founders of Amour Caché, a new intimate apparel line aiming to include everyone from bralette lovers to breast cancer survivors, were always privy to the power of underthings due to their shared love of fashion. But one experience, in particular, made this power the heart of their entrepreneurial dreams.

And such was not only the birth of Amour Caché, but also the increasingly inclusive direction in which it hopes to grow. This collection of personal experiences and observations combined with Deean and Agnes’s entrepreneurial mindsets cultivated two strong-willed businesswomen who were determined not to fail.

“We met while attending Boston University.

Our friendship and mutual studies brought us together, especially once we found a shared passion for entrepreneurship, fashion, and specifically lingerie! But we decided to start an intimate apparel brand when Agnes found a lump in her breast,” Deean, 23, explains.

“Soon after, I heard from two other girlfriends who had either just discovered their breast lumps or just gotten biopsied. All these women were below 25. It was kind of existential and made us question, “well, what if we did get breast cancer? How would we feel? What would we want? What would help us feel like “ourselves” in a time of distress and uncertainty?” We started speaking to survivors to hear their stories and get their perspectives.

When we did more research into the intimate apparel space, we discovered that beautiful,

Since their November 2020 launch, Amour Caché has continuously built a steady following and partnered with women in various spaces and industries. Not to mention their business achievements: “We exceeded our Month One sales goal within two weeks due to pre-sales,” Deean says, beaming. “We’re currently developing three more styles (a full coverage bra that can be used by breast cancer survivors), a sexy everyday balconette bra, and a longline bra. Those are set to launch early 2021!”

While their hobbies include painting, photography, and working out, their love of lingerie makes Amour Caché the heart of everything Deean and Agnes do. Both founders insist that running the company is undoubtedly their dream job.

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“I get to design and challenge myself creatively while also exercising my forecasting and analytical skills. In the future, I’d love to get an MBA. But this is my dream job,” Deean says.

“I like problem-solving, and where could more problems exist than in a start-up?” Agnes adds, cheekily.

expand the brand’s community even further than our current scope of consumers,” Deean explains.

By placing passion at the heart of their business, Deean and Agnes have placed themselves on a promising path. Not only are these women entrepreneurs paving the way for themselves and other young women like them, but they also As Deean and Agnes pursue their ambitions continue to demonstrate the power of a brand of becoming a household name in the intimate to create something meaningful. And of course, ap parel space, they also tend fondly to the the power of lingerie to empower anyone who empowered community they want to cultivate wears it. through Amour Caché and it’s online storytelling space, L’AMOURZINE. “Through the stories we share on L’AMOURZINE, we hope to

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PUBLIC RELATIONS & MARKETING TIPS

Here are 4 predictions we see that will have your socials lit this year.

#1 - VIDEO content reigns!

From TikTok, Reels, and IGTV —video content will expand your reach no matter the platform or format. So, go ahead, don’t be shy. Tap into the opportunity and jump on the bandwagon. The great thing is your content reaches beyond your followers.

Consider using videos to tell your brand story, daily business practices, How to’s, or what you believe makes your business stand out from the rest. The best tools that I find most effective and easy to navigate are:

• IG Reels • IG LIVE • FB LIVE • Snapchat • TikTok

#2 - Social shopping (normalize it) How many times have you heard someone say they saw an ad on IG and instantly made a purchase!? Now that TikTok and Shopify recently partnered, they’ve made it super easy to make purchases without leaving the app.

#3 - Purpose is powerful

— It’s no secret that brands on a mission sharing ethical, social and environmental information for the betterment of society will go viral. We are eager to support a voice of impact. Share where you stand and create change. We are here for it!

#4 - Educational posts continue to top engagement

—Talk about the perfect hacks!

Shareable and savable content is so important and available to everyone. Inspiring others to share amazing resources won’t fade any time soon. Sharing guides and great tips are on the rise and if you are feeling strong go ahead save this post, also share with your business besties.

Sources: Oberlo, Social Media Today, and Hootsuite

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FEATURE

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Photo credit: Breonna Collier

GETTING CREATIVE WITH COURTNEY AJINCA Planning a wedding on a regular day takes a lot of patience, time management, and attention to detail. Add to that planning a celebrity wedding, including paparazzi, wedding crashers, news, and media. Then sprinkle in a pandemic! Mrs. Courtney Ajinca not only overcame all of these obstacles but put on one of the most glamorous weddings of 2020 for Real Housewives of Atlanta celebrity Cynthia Bailey and her husband, Mike Hill.

This young woman is always on the go, but we were thrilled to be able to get a few minutes to discuss her company and her role as a Celebrity event planner, and what’s up next.

How did you get your start in this industry? What are some tips you would have for anyone who wanted to enter into event planning?

I’ve been planning events for 4 years. I got started in the industry by planning events for family and friends and my husband began taking notice and saying that I was really good and should take it seriously. So I did and I jumped in and haven’t looked back.

For anyone who would like to enter into event planning, I would tell them to take courses to develop their skills and never stop learning. I take continuing education courses twice per year to enhance my skills and stay current on the latest event technologies. Also, jump in and go for it. Don’t waste time worrying about if it will work out or not. Give it your all and push to the top!

With covid we have all had to alter our normal procedures, what

Photo Cred: Erick Robinson

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was the most difficult thing about planning a wedding during Covid 19?

The most difficult thing about planning a wedding during COVID19 was having to stay knowledgeable of the ever changing government mandates and having to implement the safety precautions. There was a different mandate ever day and week leading up to the wedding, so that made it difficult, but we just took everything as it came and made the best out of the situation.

Planning such a huge wedding during COVID-19 was very difficult, but also rewarding. Everything had to be perfectly planned and organized down to the finest detail. But I can’t take all of the credit. I’m so grateful to my team for helping me to execute the biggest wedding of the year. I delegated tasks to them such as floral, organization, creative design, and food & beverage and they hit it out of the park! We implemented and designed using the COVID precautionary measures and made sure that we covered all bases. I couldn’t be more proud of them.

What did you learn this year in terms of hosting major events?

I learned to be versatile and to always have the ability to pivot. I also learned to delegate tasks

in order to have a bigger impact. I grew my company through the pandemic and created an executive board. In doing so, we are positioned to grow in the coming years. Im excited to see where my business will be this time next year!

Where do you see the future of events for 2021 and beyond?

While the future of events is uncertain, I do believe that we will began celebrating again soon.

Live events will begin to take place again, but I will continue to implement precautionary measures and design elements that will allow my clients and guests to celebrate safely. I believe virtual events will continue to take place. They are budget friendly and very convenient for large companies and brands. I love in-person events, but I have a great appreciation for virtual events as well.

Thank you so much to Courtney Ajinca and her publicist Danika Berry for allowing us an opportnity to share her story.

If your a fan of celebrity event planning and want to see this amazing woman in action? Check her out starting February 9th on VH1’s newest show, “My Celebrity Dream Wedding”.

You can also check out her website at www.Courtneyajinca.com Instagram.com/courtneyajinca.com

INTERIOR DESIGN

Designer Look on a Budget Peel and Stick Wallpaper Wallpaper is not only expensive, hiring a professional installer to hang it is costly. Peel and stick wallpapers are a brilliant solution for the DIY enthusiast. I used it in lieu of a tile backsplash in my kitchen for a fun and durable look without the $1000 price tag that comes with a professionally installed backsplash. In just 4 hours, I had this installed myself for a mere $50. You can use peel and stick wallpaper in a variety of ways and there are a ton of cool looks. It works great not only on walls, but on the backs of an open bookcase or lined on the inside of a tray. It’s also perfect for renters wanting to personalize your home because you can easily peel it off when you leave.

Synchronized Floral Pink Peel and Stick Wallpaper from www.roommatesdecor.com.

Epoxy Countertops

One of the biggest costs in a kitchen remodel are the countertops. Quartz and granite can cost thousands of dollars, but you can get the same or similar looks for just a few hundred dollars with a little sweat equity in pouring your own epoxy countertops. Epoxy countertop kits are gaining in popularity, not only because they are inexpensive, but also because you can create a ton of custom looks with them and there is the added bonus that they are extremely durable and resilient to high heat. I did epoxy over my existing laminate countertops 3 years ago and they still look as good as the day that they were completed. I used the Premium White Marble FX Poxy Countertop Kit from www.countertopepoxy.com

Photo from www.countertopepoxy.com

Stencils Like the peel and stick wallpaper, stencils can add a designer look at a low cost, but they are even more versatile because you can use them to change just about anything that can be painted, including floors. Dated tile flooring can be frustrating to work around if you are updating and do not want to spend thousands to replace. A stencil and some durable epoxy paint are just the trick to modernize a tired old floor. Stencils are also excellent for an accent wall or on furniture too. There are so many tutorials you can find online from other DIY enthusiasts who have excellent tips and tricks on how to paint flooring that will last. My favorite source for stencils is Royal Design Studio. I have used many of their stencils on furniture and walls, including this powder bathroom I did at the 2018 Topeka Designers’ Showhouse.

Photo from www.royaldesignstudio.com.

Sarah Kellogg has been designing interiors for over 18 years in the Lawrence, Kansas City and Topeka areas. In 2010, she started her own company, Sarah Kellogg Interiors, focusing on residential and small office interior design. Sarah’s passion for helping clients fulfill their envision and truly listening to her client’s desires and needs has made her a forerunner in her field. Sarah is also passionate about using her talents to give back to her community. She has been involved in the Topeka Designers’ Showhouse for the past several years as well as serving on the Women Build committee benefitting Habitat for Humanity. Her passion for helping people and community involvement are what drive her to be successful in her work everyday.

Rising Music Star Sarah Todd of Iggy T and The Crazymakers

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By Madison Frilot Sarah Todd, artist, producer, entrepreneur, educator, also goes by “Iggy T” - that is, when she is serving up soulful vocals as the lead singer of the retro pop band Iggy T and The Crazymakers.

After a decade of wearing a myriad of hats in the education and nonprofit worlds, Sarah turned her desire to be of service toward supporting other artists. She managed the independent record label Underground Sun (“USUN”) focusing on artist relations, creative direction, production, and branding. While at USUN, she co-creat-

ed and hosted “The Mixdown,” - a web series designed to connect with the music community on the topics of songwriting, recording and production, and music business.

in connecting with youth, inspiring their connection to the planet, and their pursuit of protecting it. It was such a full plate, like any non-profit work. I had no time to be creative musically.

Sarah is currently focusing her attention on creating custom music for Film, TV, and Ads. Through her company “Snaxx Music” she partners with top tier synch agencies and production music libraries to build high end catalogs of one-stop music. As Creative Director and Executive Producer, she often serves as the translator between artists and gatekeepers, cultivating fruitful partnerships and building diverse teams that span the globe.

I find creative outlets in everything I do. I kind of approach it from an artist’s lens; creative problem solving, ways of approaching things, building something, connecting with people - it’s all creative to me.

Can you tell us the story of how you grew up?

I grew up as a super quiet kid. I had a pretty tumultuous home life. My mom was an alcoholic and my parents divorced when I was just three years old. I bounced between both homes, plus my grandparents’ home which taught me to travel light and to cherish the moments when I felt love and safety. I always felt loved, but I just don’t know that the people who were around me knew how to show it all the time. My safety was sometimes questionable emotionally and physically, but I learned to find the silver lining, to be adaptable, and to observe everything and everyone in my surroundings.

From that place of quiet I was able to build my vision and my dream of how I wanted to express myself in the world. I was observing and using everyone around me as examples of how to build the vision for my own dream life. I was always taking notes. Many people are surprised because I’m not very quiet these days whatsoever, but as a kid, my teachers and my parents were worried about me because I rarely talked.

In a lot of ways, I still operate that way. I’m always observing and taking my ship in the direction that provides forward motion. My struggles as a kid are never something I feel victimized by. I think that’s a vicious cycle that is easy to get sucked into. By seeing the value of growing up the way I did and by sharing my story, I’m able to rise above it and empower others to do the same.

By radically accepting where I came from and what I endured growing up, I’m allowed to say, “Okay - now what?” This is one of my favorite things to say.

What brought you to this specific career path?

Because there was so much going on in a tumultuous way, I often found myself feeling settled when I was able to be creative as a kid. I was happiest doing arts and crafts or listening to music. I was super into the lyrics. I would unravel the packaging of the CDs or tapes and find the lyrics notes - I felt connected to a force that I couldn’t see but that I could otherwise sense. Before entering the music industry I was on a mission to save the world through non-profit work in environmental education. I went to grad school for education. I was fulfilled

But specifically, I wanted to have more time to be musical. I came to terms with how important it was to me. I realized that when I don’t have time to be able to invest in music, I feel like I can’t breathe. I feel like a shell of myself. I realized how important music was to me: not just as a listener, but as an artist myself.

I had fallen in love with my vision of pursuing music after I fell off a cliff while rock climbing. I broke both of my feet and a leg. I couldn’t walk for 3.5 months and I was forced to sit still.

What I could do, however, was play guitar and sing. It was like being reunited with an old friend. From there I found myself in a group of fellow artists reading through Julia Cameron’s book “The Artist’s Way.” The rest was history after that. I realized I was allowed to pursue art and that I loved supporting other artists too. I realized that despite the stories we are often told as kids of art being a hobby, I could make a career out of doing what I love. Creating AND helping other creatives along the way to do what they love? It was a dream come true. I wanted to support other artists in whatever way I could to empower them to be even more creative and to build sustainable business models so that they can have revenue streams associated with their art - that’s the dream.

I am doing that in every aspect of my life right now and I couldn’t ask for a better situation. I couldn’t ask for a better dream.

It has not been easy, but nothing worth doing is. Every grueling step of the career change has been absolutely worth it.

What was the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?

About six years ago I was at a dark, outdoor jam circle at a mutual friend’s party. I didn’t really know anybody there at all. I was listening to some guy play music and thought, who’s that? That sounds very cool. It ended up being David Franz. Moments later, I was playing music and David Franz had the exact same reaction. Who’s that? That sounds very cool. It was an instant connection.

I love telling that story because we heard each other before we met each other or even saw each other. From that point forward, we realized we had very similar tastes in music and that we wanted to do something with that. That was how Iggy T and the Crazymakers was born.

Fast-forward and we just released our Iggy T and The

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Crazymakers’ 2020 Record “Just Can’t Get Enough.”

What are you working on now?

I’m working with David at Underground Sun to release a few singles for Iggy T and The Crazymakers after the release of our record earlier this year. We’ve been hanging onto these for a while so it will be nice to see them make

vagina.

Why do you think it’s important to have diversity in your industry? How can that potentially affect our culture?

It’s the simple fact that the media we consume should reflect the reality of the makeup of our society. Every child should see folks on tv and film that represent a part of them. Diversity is what makes our country so uniquely beautiful. Learning to embrace and listen and learn from

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their way into the world.

One of my favorite things to do is empower artists to stretch their creativity and see their output as worthy of being fairly compensated for. I’m a bit of a puppet master in this way. I often get to get in on the songwriting and recording side of these projects too. COVID has forced a lot of us to work remotely with our collaborators which has only opened the channels for more and more opportunities. I bring a mini studio with me wherever I go!

Over the last couple of years, I found myself frustrated with being the only woman in the room of my music collaborations. I met a couple of amazing ladies online and all of us have been totally crushing on each other and the music we make. We’ve dived into the new culture of women working together and not competing, which has evolved to be my favorite thing about life right now. I just love working with women.

I pitched them on doing a project together and somehow they believed me that it would work. We quite literally live all across the US (LA, Austin, and NYC). We’ve been putting in a lot of time becoming besties, laughing a ton, and just having fun writing and recording cheeky pop bangers nestled under my company Snaxx Music Co. We’ve got an awesome team of folks supporting our mission and we couldn’t be more stoked to start releasing some of the tracks into the wild. We are called Majority V. Yes, V for

those who are different from us would make our world a much more loving place to live. I feel grateful to be a part of such a welcoming and diverse community through art, specifically music.

You cannot hear race, religion, sexual orientation, etc. when listening to a song. You hear a unifying language that we can all connect to in some form. It’s the same when playing music with a group of people. What a beautiful model for how we could structure our society.

I believe we can get there. I believe music can help, just like it always has.

Even with politics, with Kamala as a public role model, I think we’re on our way. Everybody should feel represented and safe and welcomed just as they are.

What are five things you wish someone told you when you first started?

I don’t resent learning any of the things below at the exact time that I did. They continue to shape me and my life path. Though of course, the more information any one person is equipped with before they start something, the more time and energy they can potentially save themselves!

1. Positive Thinking: I wish someone had told me the power of positive thinking and the infinite

potential of creating the reality we truly desire.

It required me to dive deep into defining what brings me genuine joy and fulfillment, but the possibilities are endless to cultivate that experience. I spent a lot of time living in fear, in self-sabotaging thought patterns, and of course, we all go in and out of feeling the waves of imposter syndrome. But developing a healthy level of self-awareness saves so much time and energy. We are never completely helpless over our circumstances. I’d even say we are in many ways responsible for them. That responsibility-taking ensures that there’s always something we can do about where we find ourselves. And that’s a much more empowered place to begin moving onward and upward. When I started paying close attention to - I mean getting REALLY honest with myself - about my thoughts, beliefs, true desires, and the purpose-driven action steps to get there, I began to experience what manifesting my ideal life felt like. This is not a onetime activity. It’s a daily practice and a way of choosing to be in the world.

2. Fear: I tell my nieces this when they say they’re afraid of performing: most people probably are. I think the experience of fear can often feel debilitating when it comes to pursuing our life’s purpose. I have always had performance anxiety. It took me years to realize what I was doing every time I chose to make a pitch or get on stage. I tell people there are two different types of fear: the kind that indicates that something is very important to us, unfamiliar, but incredibly exciting and scary in its newness, and the kind that indicates we’re in real danger.

Fear of failure is often outweighed by the fear of success for our really big dreams. And that’s the fear that I encourage everyone to walk toward.

The root of that fear is the same as excitement. It provides infinite potential in doing our best, most transformative work.

3. Mindset: Learning to have a growth mindset can change a person’s trajectory. There’s such power in realizing that achievement is not innate, but reached through hard work and valuable feedback. The options for growth and knowledge acquisition become limitless from this perspective.

I also group in finding the positive silver lining or finding the opportunity in any outcome or situation. If you are not seeing the upside or the opportunity, I believe you’re not looking hard enough. There is power in positivity, as opposed to a “woe is me” attitude.

4. Knowledge vs. Qualification: “You don’t have to know EVERYTHING about what you’re doing to be considered ‘qualified’ or ‘ready’ to begin working.” I’ve accepted that the most valuable learning happens through doing, so it’s best to just get moving on an idea or a dream instead of waiting around to learn more or get more expe-

rience. No one that is trailblazing knows 100% what they’re doing. That’s what makes them such powerful forces of vision and innovation.

5. Teambuilding: You don’t have to do it alone. In fact, you shouldn’t do it alone. I have learned that building relationships of depth and meaning are invaluable. Becoming an echo chamber is not good for anyone, nor is it helpful in completing your mission. I have to trust the people I work with implicitly. Trust your gut when you bring people onto your team. Shared values are imperative. A similar driving motivation, and some overlap in two people’s “why” can create a productive and lifelong relationship that can navigate the unpredictable roads of building things. A healthy sense of humor is also a requirement on any team that I build. Ya gotta bring some jokes! We just can’t get by without jokes. It’s a fine line to walk with maintaining professionalism and a sense of humor but when you find your people, you will know. You don’t have to be serious all the time to be taken seriously. Fun teams are successful teams in my opinion.

How can our readers follow you online?

Website: Band: https://www.iggytandthecrazymakers.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iggytandthecrazymakers Insta: https://www.instagram.com/iggytandthecrazymakers/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/iggytcrazymaker Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4hrq7kRX2vnp5d43SttSs9

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HOW TO MAXIMIZE Advice From Business and Mindfulness Coach, Ayana O.

“From a place of gratitude, I am able to see a better tomorrow and work towards it, getting a little closer each day.”

-Ayana O. At various times in our lives, we tend to isolate ourselves from the external by choice or by circumstances, often because the outside world it too much to bare. But what if we isolated with intention? During these periods you can have your biggest breakthroughs and aha! moments. It helps you do more, be more, and creates a foundation prepared to catapult you.

1. Get Clear

3. Plan Your Future

5. Practice Mindfulness

Clarity is the key to everything! Having a clear vision of where you are and what you want to achieve is the foundation for maximizing your time and talent. Once you gain clarity, then you will be able to yield the most benefits by spending your time doing what you need to to get what you want.

Another great way to maximize your time during this period is to plan ahead. Start by writing down all the things you would like to do, be, and achieve, followed by all the things you deeply desire.

Mindfulness is purposely focusing your attention on the present moment, being intensely aware of what you are feeling and sensing in the moment and tuning in to be fully present

Without clarity there is ambiguity.

Ambiguous goals - or even worse, no goals at all - can leave you feeling as though you are wondering in the dark, frustrated and demoralized. Instead, articulate a clear and specific vision of what you want to create and get familiar with what that looks like. Going back to that vision and its associated goals will be your compass.

Create a framework/outline on how you plan to achieve each goal, outlining what you have and what you need to achieve it using a technique like the SMART goal method. You may find some goals you do not want to pursue after all.

4. Organize I don’t have time for {blank}!

2. Journal

How often do you find yourself saying that? Where does the time go?

Journaling is a great way to get to know and discover all parts of you. It is a superb way transfer the problems from your head to paper, emptying the mind and freeing up mental resources for problem-solving instead of problem-storing. Journaling will excell your capacity for creativity - putting it on paper frees up your valuable mental creative space!

A major contributing factor for feeling overwhelmed, underproductive is that we do not manage our time effectively. We mismanage our most precious resource - TIME. Reclaim your time by staying in, not commuting, practicing social distancing, use it to get organized and implement time management tools and habits that will set you up for long term success.

Going through your day mindfully eliminates distractions, reduces stress and anxiety, and improves consistency - all of which contribute to being able to maximize you.

No one said life would be easy, but with the right tools you will able to gain optimal results and avoid some major pitfalls along the way if you are able to create a solid foundation and maximize your time and talents.

Remember: whatever you do today, make a difference in your own way.

Ayana O. Business & Mindfulness COach Visit linktr.ee/CoachAyana0 for more!

SPRING FASHION TIPS It’s hard to believe spring is already here, so let’s talk about all of the latest styles and trends to get your closet ready! Spring is all about transition pieces for those days we have all four seasons in one day. This season you can expect to see muted pastel colors and minimalistic style. With so many of us are still working from home, it can be challenging to find the perfect balance between comfort and professionalism for your work from home wardrobe. Since most will only be seeing your top during zoom calls, opt for a brighter color to stand out. Joggers are loungewear, but they don’t necessarily look like it and give the illusion you’re not in sweats.

Rock this trend not only for the look but for the comfort. Matching pastel pullovers and joggers are the latest trends that everyone needs to hop on!

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Leather makes its return this season to reinterpret everyday classics. There are no limits from mini dresses, skirts, poufy sleeves, and shorts when it comes to leather. Leather shorts are perfect for transitioning to spring! These can be paired with your go-to graphic tee with a cardigan on top and black booties to give you have a chic, edgy look. Perfect for a night out on the town, or comfortable enough to just run errands around town. Leather pants are definitely a statement piece, we are obsessed with them! They are a staple that your closet needs and will never go out of style. www.hazelandolive.com

We are obsessing over this wide-leg trouser trend! They are so comfortable; this will become an everyday essential in your wardrobe. This celebrity-inspired look will leave you feeling so chic while remaining cozy. Paired with a crop top, or simple bodysuit to keep the main focus on your pants. With your favorite pair of sneakers and a wide brim hat you have just styled the perfect outfit. This is an easy, comfortable outfit for your stay at home wardrobe or can easily be dressed up for date night.

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Your go-to shoe for this spring is a good pair of white sneakers. We love all things comfortable this season!

The great thing about these sneakers is that they can be paired with literally anything. Not only are they great to throw on with your more casual outfits for running errands, but don’t be afraid to style it with any outfit you usually wouldn’t. Pair them with a floral sundress or your favorite skirt and denim jacket.

This spring, don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and tackle some of these trends!

Lastly, let’s talk accessories! So many 90’s trends are making a comeback, and we are here for it! The small 90’s shoulder bag is back and better than ever! This size is perfect to fit your phone, lip gloss, and face mask. These are the perfect accessory for days you’re on the go, and add the perfect finishing touch to your outfit.

Along with this shoulder bag, oversized fanny packs worn as a crossbody are huge right now!

These give your outfit an edgier look while being the perfect size bag for day to day activities. For necklaces, paperclip chain necklaces is something that you need! They give your outfit that extra detail while keeping the main focus on your outfit. We are loving the minimalist trend this season!

Another 90’s accessory that has made its way back around is claw clips. These clips are the new scrunchies that are fashionable, yet functional. Half up, or in a full bun, it is the an effortlessly chic hairstyle.

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Less of what you don't: less extra weight, less stress, and fewer symptoms of toxic overload.

Adietra Duval

Independent Consultant AdietraDuval.MyArbonne.com (678) 548-8328 AdietraDuval@gmail.com

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WOMEN TO WATCH

Chanel Rose Introducing Chanel Rose: Owner, Care Agency. comes in pretty much as long as you show up.

Coincidentally, in most cases, the same amount As a 4th generation entrepreneur, Chanel of money is available if you outperform expecworked in consulttations. If you get sick, ing and fundraising there are systems in for political candiplace to provide a least dates for 15 years some income. and five years ago decided it was It was a rude awakentime to do it indeing when I learned that pendently! everything costs money-especially people’s What are time. And most of the some chalfree stuff is designed lenges you to get you to pay for have faced in it later, not to give you building your everything you need. business, and I really thought that how did you going into business overcome because people like me, them? they would be so happy to help me, and if they My first business know my track record of venture was a bust. success, they would supI decided to go into port me. Sometimes that the business with was true; more often, it exactly zero busiwasn’t. Looking back, ness acumen and it was pretty selfish and zero dollars. I fell somewhat offensive for prey to the fictitious me to expect people to notion that you can give me their resources grow a business time and time again from the ground up with zero operating capital with no end in sight. That was a mindset I had and zero business understanding. to correct immediately to succeed.

Why did I do that? I had a decade of professional successes. At the time, I had raised For years I allowed myself to fail. I quietly quit over 6 million dollars for various political and and internally lost my confidence to try again. nonprofit campaigns. I had managed and won Once I realized how ridiculous I had been, I several statehouse political campaigns. I was just couldn’t get over the embarrassment and on a life high. went back to working for others again.

I had all of the skills to be a great employee but none to be a business owner!

I learned the main difference was, for one thing, when you are an employee, the money

In the interim, I started getting clients by word of mouth referrals. The more people that would call me help me go back to my first realization that I loved helping people and investing in

them and their causes. So I sat down and went through all my old documents from my failed business and wrote a list of things I needed to support myself and my business. I now have a certification from Harvard University Business School in business analytics, two certifications from Northwestern University in leadership development and project management. Gaining these certificates and knowledge helped me gain the confidence I needed to create an infrastructure that served as a strong foundation for growth, easily adapting as problems arise.

“The lessons I learned through the failure and relaunch was that for me to succeed, I needed to invest in myself to improve my business habits but more importantly add value to my clients.”

What are some tips you would give other professional women looking to start a business?

I always answer this question as if I’m talking to my younger self. Here’s what I would say to Chanel 5 years ago.

1. You are Enough, and you have everything you need to do what you are born to do.

There is no extra credit for senselessly struggling. You do not have to earn lessons by experiencing pain. Go out and ask for help.

2. Read books on business, listen to podcast about money and attend seminars as often as possible. The best investment in your business is the one you make in yourself.

3. Know your worth & then triple the tax!

Outsource! Listen, you are brilliant and capable in your expertise, and so are others. Build a team of people who can do all the necessary things you do not enjoy. You get back a whole lot of time and mental equity to create more of what you love.

Call Us To Schedule Your Private Tour!

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1 BED | 1 BATH | 1120 SQFT. | $399,000

Crystal Swearingen 785-550-3424 crystalsavesthedeal@gmail.com www.CrystalClearSells.com 1201 Wakarusa Dr Suite C4 Lawrence, Ks 66049

PREP-TO-SELL A seller's guide for preparing to list your home. Make sure your home is featured in the best condition to get the best offers!

Check off the list of to-dos as you get through them: ☐ Replace Light Bulbs Throughout Home ☐ Replace Batteries in Smoke Detectors ☐ Hire A Professional Cleaning Company ☐ Box Up And Store Away Personal Clutter (Put In Storage Unit If Possible) ☐ Remove Personal Photos and Artwork ☐ Fix Any Holes In Walls ☐ Re-Touch Paint Where It's Needed ☐ Remove Furniture That May Take Up Too Much Space ☐ Make Sure Dishes Are Always Put Away ☐ Make Sure Trash is Always Taken Out, Trash Can Doesn't Stink ☐ Keep All Beds Throughout Home Made ☐ Keep Closets Organized, Items Stored Away (Buyer's Want To See The Size) ☐ Make Minor Repairs Throughout Home (Dents, Holes, Scratches, etc.) ☐ Replace Missing Hardware (I.e. Kitchen or Bathroom Cabinets/Drawers) ☐ Make Sure Yard Debris Is Cleaned Up ☐ Store Away Outside Content (I.e. Toys, Lawn Mowers, etc.) ☐ Add Some Plants Throughout Home To Freshen It Up ☐ Add Some Curb Appeal To The Front Of Your Home (First Thing Buyers See) ☐ Hide Any Pet Supplies During Shows (I.e. Litterbox, Food, etc.) ☐ Remove Any Pet Odors, Or Any Other Odors, In All Rooms

To ensure you get top dollar for your home, you want to make sure it's in the best condition for buyers who preview the property. By removing personal content and keeping the home as immaculate as possible, you give buyer's the ability to view your home as their own.

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TRAVELING DURING A PANDEMIC TRAVEL WRITER: AMANDA STORM

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I am writing this from the airport in Antigua - that beautiful island in the Leeward Islands of the Caribbean. My daughter sent me a photo from her dorm room window in the Midwest showing snow on the ground along with a joyous text, the first day of classes had been postponed.

Friends are posting photos of cats and dogs by the fire, hot cups of cocoa, or new soup recipes.

employers of women globally? During my drive earlier this week, Radley Baptiste, my driver, informed me that 80% of Antigua and Barbuda’s economy is supported by tourism. I asked if there were small business loan programs or unemployment options for the citizens. “No,” he replied.

“We are a small country with no one looking out for us. So now it is ‘scratch’ to make ends meet.”

Here I am, getting ready to leave behind the 365 beautiful beaches, the famed “black pineapple,” the sound of the surf, and 80 degree weather. At this moment, I feel foolish; It is a moment I have not yet experienced in my travels during this pandemic, but the thought of finding my mittens and car scraper makes me reconsider.

Baptiste’s situation is not unique, my colleagues in Mexico, the Caribbean, Italy, and Ireland report similar circumstances. Of course, the larger countries can provide some aid to their citizens.

As a travel agency owner and it is important to me to learn first hand what is happening in the destinations where I send guests, so I have traveled twice during this “COVID mess.”

Traveling is always a personal decision. It comes down to what you want to see and do. What memories do you want to capture? What culture do you hope to explore?

While the pandemic is affecting businesses here, the direct impact on other countries is astonishing.

Did you know that 1 in 10 jobs have direct ties to tourism? The tourism industry is one of the largest

Recently, when I have traveled, the majority of people in airports and on planes are following the rules and wearing masks. You will see social distancing while waiting in lines to board, go

Often, I get the question, is it safe to travel now?

Should I travel? Where can I visit?

through immigration, and get luggage. Travelers, for the most part, are respectful of others.

Upon arrival (in both of my Caribbean destinations), I had to provide a health form, have my temperature checked, and sanitized my hands. To travel to Antigua, I had to have the PCR test completed within a specified time before arrival. I had to show my negative results to the airline (app) and physically in person upon arrival in Antigua. This same scenario is in most tropical destinations; however, Costa Rica, Mexico, and The Dominican Republic currently do not require a test for those entering.

I saw the majority of locals in Mexico and Antigua wearing masks walking on the street. There are masks in taxis and cabs, on buses and in stores. At the resorts, the staff is wearing masks. Guests are also wearing masks when going into closed spaces like elevators, interior hallways, or restaurants. I was cautious and wore my mask when interacting with staff, in elevators, and did my best to socially distance myself. I kept my interactions with other guests to a minimum. I am sure they were all nice people and we could have been fast friends, but safety first!

The Caribbean and Mexico are designed for social

distancing. You will find restaurants are outside, outdoor pools and lounge chairs are six feet from each other. Many buildings have hallways that are open to the outdoors.

I believe you can travel safely and reduce your risk of exposure to COVID-19. However, I know that not everyone is comfortable traveling internationally at this time. This is in part to work/school requirements and the new CDC regulation requiring testing to re-enter the US. As an industry, we have seen the addition of testing sites and resources throughout the Caribbean.

For those wanting to travel but feeling anxious about what to do, please reach out to your travel advisor. If there ever was a time for a travel professional, it is now helping you navigate protocols. A well-versed advisor will be able to give you advice on what destinations will fit your current vacation dreams (within or outside the US) and what destinations will need to remain on your “wish list” for a while longer.

Wishing you amazing adventures!

Questions? Reach out to me at Amanda@amandastravels.com

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CRYSTAL CLEAR REALTY B U Y I N G O R S E L L I N G T H E C H O I C E I S C R Y S T A L C L E A R 7 8 5 - 5 5 0 - 3 4 2 4 W W W , C R Y S T A L C L E A R S E L L S . C O M

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