The importance of small businesses to the economy cannot be overstated. Though national chains often garner publicity, local businesses are equally, if not exceedingly, worthy of attention. Here’s a deep look at why small businesses are so vital, and why consumers should direct more of their purchasing power to local companies.
1. Autonomy and diversity The layout and offerings and look at national chains will be identical whether you live in the mountains or at the beach. On the other
hand, an independent business offers the products and services that are reflective of the customers and the community they serve.
2. Local hiring strategy Certain big box retailers will hire local residents but hiring policies may push for promoting from within the organization. Small businesses may be more inclined to hire residents they know and keep hiring centralized to the local area something that keeps more resources and money in the community.
3. Adaptability and change Local businesses can move
more quickly to respond to economic factors that require change. Since they are focused more on the needs of their customers rather than stockholders, changes can be implemented rapidly without having to go through red tape, meetings, and updates to corporate policies.
4. Investing in the town Shopping at locally owned businesses rather than big box retailers keeps more money in the community. This helps raise overall value for homeowners and can even reduce their taxes. The funding helps keep police,
fire and school departments functioning properly. The benefits of a thriving small business sector are numerous. Consumers can do their part by patronizing these firms more frequently. .
From the day you find out to the day you deliver, there’s nothing more important to Longview Regional Medical Center than your and your baby’s health and well-being. This is why we provide extra amenities such as private rooms, spacious birthing suites, childbirth classes and breastfeeding support. And if you and your newest addition need a little extra help, we offer perinatal services that include maternal-fetal medicine specialists and a Level III NICU.
From the day you find out to the day you deliver, there’s nothing more important to Longview Regional Medical Center than your and your baby’s health and well-being. This is why we provide extra amenities such as private rooms, spacious birthing suites, childbirth classes and breastfeeding support. And if you and your newest addition need a little extra help, we offer perinatal services that include maternal-fetal medicine specialists and a Level III NICU.
From the day you find out to the day you deliver, there’s nothing more important to Longview Regional Medical Center than your and your baby’s health and well-being. This is why we provide extra amenities such as private rooms, spacious birthing suites, childbirth classes and breastfeeding support. And if you and your newest addition need a little extra help, we offer perinatal services that include maternal-fetal medicine specialists and a Level III NICU.
For more information about our labor and delivery services, visit LongviewRegional.com/baby.
For more information about our labor and delivery services, visit LongviewRegional.com/baby.
For more information about our labor and delivery services, visit LongviewRegional.com/baby.
2901 N. Fourth Street • Longview, TX 75605 • 903-242-3490 • LongviewRegional.com
2901 N. Fourth Street • Longview, TX 75605 • 903-242-3490 • LongviewRegional.com
2901 N. Fourth Street • Longview, TX 75605 • 903-242-3490 • LongviewRegional.com
Hello infinitieplus magazine readers, Our hope is that you had a very merry Christmas and ready to tackle 2023. It is in this vein that we wish you a very joyful, peaceful, and prosperous 2023.
The year 2022 was certainly better than 2021 because the contagion COVID-19 was abating unlike 2020 when the virus was at the height of its havoc- we wore masks and worked from home.
We thank the Lord Almighty for taking this killer virus away from us. We still need to be careful because as of this writing China’s COVID -19 infection is still on the rise. As a matter of fact, starting January 5, the United States will require mandatory negative COVID -19 tests from all Chinese, Hong Kong and the Island of Macau travelers aged two and older for entry. The Center for Disease Control is advising that American citizens think twice before travelling to China, Hong Kong, and Macau.
The stories in this issue include the cover story- Trina Griffith of Griffith & Company - Real Estate, LLC.
Another heart-warming report is the Texas Bank and Trust Omni Party. The attendees were elated to come back to this party after a couple of years hiatus due to COVID-19.
Longview Independent School District has developed a new community interactive forum dubbed LOBO TALK patterned after the famed TED TALK. This is a must read especially the information about dangerous loans by Roberto Monsivais, a loan officer from Cadence bank.
We cannot leave out our inspiration page with the headline “Looking for God in 2023.” Be sure to check out this page on how to find the Almighty God and make Him part of your daily life in 2023. There is more.
Another report is about KOMATSU donating funds to Education by Design, Longview, Texas an education non-profit that tutors, mentors, and coaches low to moderate income underserved students from single parent homes.
Thanks to Prosperity bank who also donated funds to Education by Design, Longview, Texas. The story is in this issue as well.
We are looking forward to a great year, writing stories that you want to read stories about people and businesses that do extraordinary feats in our community that often times go unreported.
Once again, we want to thank you for your support. Check out our brand-new interactive website at www. infinitieplusmag.com. We look forward to serving you again in February.
Publisher / Editor
Joycelyne Fadojutimi, PhD
Photography
Joycelyne Fadojutimi
Graphic Designer
Kuneho Designs
Contributing Writers
Glenn Miller
Mechele Agbayani Mills
Shea Vogel Dr. Michael Guido
For advertising Email: joy@infinitieplusmag.com www.infinitieplusmag.com
To enrich the local-global community with the “just in time knowledge,” to assure future successes
To become an information oracle of functional and constructive reports that serves the needs of businesses and communities.
Submission Deadline: The first of every month prior to month of issue. infinitieplus magazine is not responsible for any discrepancies or changes since the publishing of this issue. At the time of publication, to the best of our knowledge, all information was accurate though not guaranteed. The entire contents of infinitieplus magazine is copyrighted 2022. Any reproduction or use in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. infinitieplus magazine reserves the right to edit and make appropriate modifications. The opinions published by contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the views of infinitieplus magazine or its advertisers.
P. O. Box 12473 Longview, Texas 75602-2473 www.infinitieplusmag.com Phone: 903.918.7706
Trina Griffith is more than a real estate luminary. She is a virtuoso on the piano. She earned a membership in the National and International Music Guild. Besides being a church pianist, playing for two church
Sunday, she sang in the choir, at weddings and events. She was a banker, membership, and program director for the Longview Chamber of Commerce among many other positions.
Arecent report from the Center on Education and the Workforce at Georgetown University revealed just how valuable a college degree continues to be. As tuition costs at many colleges and universities rise and families wonder if investing in a college degree is as wise as it once was, the CEW report can reassure parents and their children that a college degree remains a valuable asset that pays significant financial dividends over the long haul.
According to the CEW report, adults with a bachelor’s degree earn an average of $2.8 million during their careers. By contrast, adults with a high school diploma earn an average of $1.6 million over the course of their careers, while those without a diploma earn $1.2 million in their lifetimes. One key consideration for individuals concerns when education may not provide the expected financial return. Though people pursue advanced degrees for a variety of reasons, including the potential to earn more money over the course of their careers, the CEW study found that the average person with a master’s degree earns $3.2 million in their careers, or just $400,000 more than someone with a bachelor’s
degree. Though $400,000 is a significant sum of money, given the cost to obtain a master’s degree and the work required to earn it, some individuals, particularly those who would pursue such a degree solely to improve their earning potential, may not deem the investment worth their time or money. That’s a consideration for people given the average cost of a master’s degree, which the Education Data Initiative reports is slightly more than $66,000.
Field of study is another consideration for individuals curious
about the return to expect when investing in education. The CEW report found that the median career earnings among individuals with a bachelor’s degree in architecture and engineering is $3.8 million, while individuals with a bachelor’s in education earn slightly more than half that amount ($2 million).
As the cost of higher education continues to rise, parents and students about to enter college should know that obtaining a college degree remains a worthy pathway to earning more money over the course of one’s life.
At the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve, it is customary to sip a glass of champagne and toast to the new year. Many people use the dawn of a new year as a time to create a list of resolutions that reflect positive changes, they hope to make in the year ahead.
Between 40 and 45 percent of American adults make resolutions each year, according to the health and wellness group Proactive Mindfulness. Resolutions may seem silly to some, but there are several positive reasons to make them.
Resolutions provide practice setting goals. Goal setting is an important component of life. Goals are key because they provide general direction in life. A goal is a map that can give you an idea of where you are heading and what path you need to take to get there, according to the selfimprovement guide Success Consciousness. Resolutions can be fun, low-pressure goals. Think of them as dress rehearsals for bigger life changes.
Resolutions offer time for reflection. Too often people are rushing through daily life without stopping or slowing down to truly assess the impact of their actions. Resolutions help you reflect
on the past, present and future, figuring out what has been working and what may need to be changed to provide a boost, according to the wellness resource Alternative Daily.
Resolutions can serve as a catalyst for positive change.
When something isn’t working with your routine, personal health or relationships, resolutions can serve as the catalyst that ultimately rights the ship.
Resolutions can promote self-esteem and empowerment. Making resolutions and keeping them can provide a sense of accomplishment that comes with goal setting and following through. Resolving to lose five pounds and then seeing the proof on a scale can be a powerful motivator that compels you to make other self-improvements. Accomplishing small goals also can boost self-esteem. Resolutions are often made at the dawn of a new year. These efforts can provide the motivation and direction people need to make positive changes in their lives.
out what has been working and what may need to be changed to provide a boost, according to the wellness resource Alternative Daily.
Texas Bank and Trust held its OMNI Christmas party after a couple of years hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The event was packed despite the fact that it was a come and go affair. The Christmas tree was as beautiful as ever and the food was first rate as you can see in the photo. Attendees were very excited to mix and mingle with friends that they had not seen for quite some time due to the coronavirus contagion.
Better yet, Rogers Pope, Jr. vice chairman and chief executive officer of Texas Bank and Trust Company and his wife, Kellie gladly welcomed attendees. They went round the tables greeting and chatting with their guests.
LaDelle Kay was very excited to attend with her daughter Melissa Houck. “It feels so good to be here. It is so festive,” Kay said. “It is so nice of the bank to do this. We really missed it.”
Ed Rast sang the praises of Texas Bank and Trust. “It just feels great to be here. I have always loved to come to this event,” he said. “I opened my account in this bank 51 years ago. This is an amazing bank. They have gone from Longview and all the way to Frisco in the Dallas area.”
In addition, Raenell Craft and her daughter Kim Phillips were thrilled to be there. ”This is absolutely beautiful,” said Craft. “This is one of my favorite events.”
By DR. MICHAEL GUIDO
“You chart the path ahead of me and tell me when to stop and rest. Every moment you know where I am.” Psalm 139:3
“The Lord says, “‘I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.’” Psalm 32:8
“Because of Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for He chose us from the
beginning and all things happen just as He decided years ago.”
Ephesians 1:11
“The Lord will work out His plans for my life – for Your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever. Don’t abandon me, for You made me!” Psalm 138:8
“Seek His will in all you do, and He will direct your paths.”
Proverbs 3:6
Prayer: Grant us wisdom, give us faith, increase our trust, and watch over us each day, Father, as we seek Your plan for our lives. May we follow You always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scriptures: Psalm 139:3: Psalm 32:8; Ephesians 1:11; Psalm 138:8; Proverbs 3:6.
STORY BY JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI WWW.INFINITIEPLUSMAG.COM
Trina Griffith is more than a real estate luminary. She is a virtuoso on the piano. She earned a membership in the National and International Music Guild. Besides being a church pianist, playing for two church services each Sunday, she sang in the choir, at weddings and events. She was a banker, membership, and program director for the Longview Chamber of Commerce among many other positions.
Daren and Trina Griffith both hale from small-town East Texas. Daren her husband started out in Kilgore, while Trina calls Elysian Fields her hometown. Both grew up encircled by loving parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins who made life a joy along with sundry friends, classmates, and parishioners. Weekends were a time for loving interaction that left blessed memories.
The Griffiths have now been
married forty years, and they and sons Damen and Dax still have frequent, loving interaction along with a six-year-old grandson who basks in his family's love and attention. Real estate makes theirs a profitable union.
After meeting at and graduating from Stephen F. Austin University, Daren and Trina spent awhile in Dallas before getting homesick for deep East Texas piney woods. Their next (and last) stop was Longview.
"My husband was very entrepreneurial, and from the beginning of our relationship in college, I recognized this and loved that about him," she says.
Trina, however, came from a family of educators, and had majored in education, but also felt an inclination to adventurously branch out into the business world. She spent the next several years working in banking, in sales as membership director of the Court House Athletic Club, and then moved on to the Longview
Chamber of Commerce where she worked as membership and programs director. A sense of total fulfillment was lacking, though. She felt a "tug at my heart" to get into real estate. Shortly after the birth of her first son she made the break.
"In real estate I would be able to enjoy all the things that make me tick," she says. "Finally, a chance to be an entrepreneur."
Through it all, there has also been her love of music. A past member of the National and International Music Guilds, she is a virtuoso on the piano. As a junior high and high school student she served as her church's pianist while also singing in the church choir, weddings, and other events. She makes beautiful music as a real estate professional, too.
"A typical day in real estate is nothing typical," she says. "To be successful one has to be selfmotivated, a multitasker and able to change your plans for the day at a moment's notice.
Recognizing the significant contributions of
“If you lose hope, somehow you lose the vitality that keeps moving, you lose that courage to be, that quality that helps you go on in spite of it all. And so today I still have a dream.”
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
No two days are ever the same. I love that, too."
The ongoing momentum of the real estate industry has enabled it to barge unhindered through the COVID-19 pandemic . Recognized as running an "essential business" realtors were not closed down and left to languish at home. Something about the pandemic seemed to make East Texas even more attractive than usual to prospective buyers. She saw so
many people and businesses suffer terribly from the pandemic, but never in her twenty-eight-year career had she ever experienced such a strong seller's real estate market. From March 2020 to July of 2022 there was a veritable stampede of customers.
"I felt like I worked harder and longer than I ever have in my life," she says. "It became a 24/7 career."
Even though the COVID
pandemic has yet to run its course, Trina Griffith and Company has expanded to almost thirty agents and opened a second office in Hallsville, which her expert eye picked out as a highly promising market.
"It has been a fantastic opportunity, and we are loving being a part of Hallsville, where our listings and sales are flourishing," she says.
"A typical day in real estate is nothing typical. To be successful one has to be self-motivated, a multitasker and able to change your plans for the day at a moment's notice. No two days are ever the same. I love that, too."- Trina Griffith, Trina Griffith & Company - Real Estate, LLC Trina Griffith Trina Griffith
“My personal faith told me to keep my eyes on Jesus and believe His Word, His Truths. The Word brings much comfort and it brought to mind things I remembered learning in His Word from a young age, which I didn’t exactly understand, but now makes perfect sense. Stand firm in your faith and the Word. This is the answer, for everyone to find comfort and rest in His Truths, in your own personal salvation He freely gives to all, if you just believe.”
- Trina Griffith, Trina Griffith & Company - Real Estate, LLC
Her spiritual priorities have been another major aspect of her business success. During her childhood she did not always fully understand the Word of God, but she certainly does now. She stands firm in her faith.
"This is the answer for everyone to find comfort and rest in His truths," she says. "In your own personal salvation, He freely gives to all if you just believe."
She has faith in Our Lord to bring us all through the terrible pandemic, and that seeking and following His will keeps her and her co-workers atop the real estate business community. She is not concerned by recently rising interest rates and is presently recruiting new realtors who
find fulfillment in helping others have full, happy lives by working with kindness, professionalism, integrity, and diplomacy. She has definite, easy-to-understand advice for those in up-and-coming businesses.
"Surround yourself with people who add value and share your values in life that are similar as well as adding opportunity for continuing education," she says. "I love the people and resources that so enrich Trina Griffith."
She looks upon her agents as "family and friends" as they have stood beside her as she earned a long list of accolades in 2022 alone:
• Agent of the Year for 2022
• Top 100 Member
• Seven Star Earner
• Locals Love Us
• Best Real Estate Agent in Longview 2022
Her clients describe her as experienced, diplomatic, and trusted. She is this and much, much more.
takes a lot of effort. It does not just happen, but when it is attained it brings economic stability and hence financial freedom. Those who lack financial freedom are essentially enslaved to their own moods, appetites and passions and live from insufficient paycheck to insufficient paycheck.
making becomes easier."
He challenged his listeners to, once they have identified and established their goals, to lay out and firmly stick to a budget. An emergency fund is necessary so that unanticipated developments does not derail your budget.
TALK with a similar format. Once a month, they invite community experts to Longview High School who speak to at-risk and business students. LOBO TALK was launched in October 2022.
STORY BY JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI WWW.INFINITIEPLUSMAG.COM
Roberto Monsivais Community Development Mortgage Loan Originator with Cadence Bank spoke to Longview high school students about dangerous loans and how to spot them. In fact, that was the title of his lecture... Dangerous Loans.
"I wanted the kids to be more aware of loans that benefit customers versus the lender," he said. "With the uncertainty of where they'll be after high school, reaching out to trusted adults and relationships for advice and feedback is a powerful tool."
Having such trustworthy advisors at one's elbow during the loan process, reviewing and extrapolating on the documentation is a priceless asset. Monsivais recounted personal experiences that impressed on his listeners the degree of damage that can be inflicted by an unscrupulous lender. The responsibilities created by the need for money can result in one deviating from pre-set goals and agreeing to something not fully understood and that benefits someone other than the borrower.
He stressed the crucial nature of his listeners learning such procedures before they start out on a big purchase like a homeowner's loan,
car loan or even furniture stores gimmicks like no interest for sixty months. He also recommended creating good credit by starting out with a higher rate if needed and then saving money by refinancing within twelve to twenty-four months. Moreover, Monsivais warned his audience against payday loans.
"These rates are typically too high to pay them back. This typically causes bank account issues or negative reporting to credit bureaus," he said. "You pay them back so quickly, and it never helps your credit. They keep you coming back over and over without really helping you for the long term."
The bottom line to his message was emphasizing how important it is to understand everything one signs, so that loans are a safe, temporary, and useful tool.
John Nustad, a loan officer with Guild Mortgage was the second
speaker. He presented Longview High School students with some very promising words for the future. Nustad told them how working for money is not as promising as having it work for them. Discipline and spending wisely is key to consistent, dependable income. He stressed the significant differences between how the poor, rich and wealthy people spend their income.
"The poor spend money on stuff. The rich buy liabilities. The wealthy buy assets. Given the choice it is better to be wealthy over rich," he says. "The problem with the rich approach is that you only make money as long as you work. The only thing of value that you have to sell is your time. You only have a finite amount of time and energy, so this is a losing proposition."
Disciplined money management is the route to financially comfortable futures because becoming wealthy
Nustad points to the ringing declaration of famed financier Dave Ramsey, who says, "You will either learn to manage money, or the lack of it will manage you." The landscape of the financial world is dissimilar to school--You rarely have a literate teacher telling you what to do. This includes a certain lack of guidance attaining long-term goals.
Furthermore, Nustad instructed his youthful audience on how to decide on what their values are and how to position them. Definiteness of purpose is always the first step toward the goal of success.
"We can better handle discomfort when we associate it with a goal," he says. "It's not that you have to but get to. It ain’t giving up but giving for. When your values are clear, decision-
"Give and invest first, and then spend what is left over instead of spending, and then giving and investing from your excess. We have unlimited needs and wants, so if we don't prioritize, well then it will not happen."
According to Nustad, it is also a good idea to automate one's investing. Removing oneself from the process increases consistency.
He stated, “Money flows like water. It takes the path of least resistance. You must tell every dollar where to go or you will wonder where it went.”
In conclusion, Nustad advised the young people to appreciate where they are, or they would never be appreciative of where they wind up. He recommended they read the following books in this order:
1. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki, Pinnacle Publishing.
2. Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason, Principles Publishing.
3. Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey, Foundation Publishing.
LOBO TALK is patterned after the worldwide motivation, and education program
"TED TALKS" where various experts visit college campuses and theatres to educate their audience. Longview
ISD Community Relations Department created LOBO
Longview high school students learn to spot bad loans, how to make money work for them instead of working for money
"The poor spend money on stuff. The rich buy liabilities. The wealthy buy assets. Given the choice it is better to be wealthy over rich. The problem with the rich approach is that you only make money as long as you work. The only thing of value that you have to sell is your time. And, you only have a finite amount of time and energy, so this is a losing proposition.”
John Nustad, Guild Mortgage Loan Officer.
"I wanted the kids to be more aware of loans that benefit customers versus the lender. With the uncertainty of where they'll be after high school, reaching out to trusted adults and relationships for advice and feedback is a powerful tool.
Roberto Monsivais, Cadence Bank Community Development Mortgage Loan OriginatorJohn Nustad and Roberto Monsivais Students listen to Lobo Talk at Longview high school
amburgers Few things beat a hot meal on a cold day. Stews and casseroles can fit the bill in such situations, but soup is a go-to solution when looking to warm up. This recipe for can be served as an appetizer or light meal. The crispy tortilla strips included in the recipe add extra texture to a delicious dish.
SERVES 4
• 4 corn tortillas, freshly made or a few days old
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, plus extra for frying
Thursday, January 11, 2018
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
Speaker: Jackie Joyner-Kersey
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 14-ounce can plum tomatoes, drained
• 4 cups chicken stock
• Small bunch cilantro
Speaker: Jackie Joyner-Kersey
• Salt and ground black pepper
Doors Open at 11:30 a.m. Ceremony and Luncheon begin at noon Maude Cobb Activity Center 100 Grand Blvd. • Longview
Complimentary valet parking will be available.
Doors Open at 11:30 a.m.
Ceremony and Luncheon begin at noon
Maude Cobb Activity Center
100 Grand Blvd. • Longview
Individual Tickets $30.00 • $240 for Table of 8 Tickets will be available for purchase beginning November 1, 2017. To purchase, call Longview Regional Medical Center’s Marketing Department at 903-553-7400.
Complimentary valet parking will be available.
Individual Tickets $30.00 • $240 for Table of 8
Using a sharp knife, cut each tortilla into 4 or 5 strips, each measuring about 3Ú4 inches wide. Pour vegetable oil to a depth of 3Ú4 inch into a heavy frying pan. Heat until a small piece of tortilla, added to the oil, floats on the top and bubbles at the edges. Add a few tortilla strips to the hot oil and fry for a few minutes, until crisp and golden brown all over, turning them occasionally. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a double layer of paper towels. Cook the remaining tortilla strips in the same way.
Heat the 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large, heavy pan. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden spatula, until the onion is soft and translucent. Do not let the garlic turn brown or it will give the soup a bitter taste. Chop the tomatoes using a large, sharp knife and add them to the onion mixture in the pan. Pour in the chicken stock and stir well. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let simmer for about 10 minutes, until the liquid has reduced slightly. Chop the cilantro. Add to the soup, reserving a little to use as a garnish. Season to taste. Place a few of the crisp tortilla pieces in the bottom of four warmed soup bowls. Ladle the soup on top. Sprinkle each portion with the reserved chopped cilantro and serve.
Tickets will be available for purchase beginning November 1, 2017. To purchase, call Longview Regional Medical Center’s Marketing Department at 903-553-7400.
For additional information on this event visit LongviewRegional.com.
With the holidays behind us, BBB has a few resolutions that can help you fight scammers, prevent identity theft, and find trustworthy businesses and charities in 2023.
BBB Scam Tracker is a great tool for reporting scams or finding out whether that email, text or phone call claiming to be from the IRS or trying to collect a debt was legitimate or a scam.
Hundreds of thousands of scam reports have been filed nationwide
since the inception of the BBB Scam Tracker program. BBB uses the tool to track scams and to report fraudulent activity to the National Cyber-Forensics and Training Alliance for analysis and collaboration with law enforcement.
In this day and age, you can’t afford to make mistakes, “Mechele Agbayani Mills, President and CEO of BBB Serving Central East Texas said. “Taking preventive measures is well worth the time and effort to keep from becoming a victim.”
BBB provides the following resolutions to help consumers position themselves to have a safe, scam-free 2023:
1. Always check a business out with BBB before you buy. Not every business meet BBB Accreditation Standards and are qualified to use an Accredited Business seal on their websites and at on their storefronts. Visit bbb.org to find BBB Business Profiles for nearly 4 million businesses across North America.
2. Be skeptical of “job offers” that promise easy money. With high unemployment and long job searches common, scammers are targeting people desperate to find jobs. Beware of any job offer, work-at-home scheme or business opportunity that promises big money for little work and no experience.
3. Always read the fine print— especially with “free” trial offers.
Thousands of consumers reported to BBB after signing up for a “free” trial offer online that resulted in repeated charges to their credit or debit cards, sometimes amounting to hundreds of dollars every month. Read the terms and conditions of any “free” trial offer before handing over credit or debit card numbers.
4. Keep your computer safe. If you haven’t already done so, install anti-virus software on your computer and check regularly for software and operating system updates and patches. Don’t open attachments or click on links in emails unless you can confirm the email came from someone you trust.
5. Never wire money to someone you don’t know. Many scams require that the victim wire money back to the scammers. Scammers know that tracking money sent via wire or placed on pre-paid cards is extremely difficult. Once you’ve wired the money, it’s nearly impossible to get it back.
6. Fight identity theft. Shred paper documents that include
sensitive financial data and dispose of computers, cell phones and digital data safely. BBB offers tips and checklists on what to shred and hosts annual Secure Your ID events nationwide to help you stay safe.
7. Ask BBB for help. Contact BBB if you have a disagreement with a business or go to BBB Scam Tracker if you have been duped by a scammer.
8. Create a budget and stick to it. Setting a budget can help you stay afloat this year. BBB has advice on how to create a budget to help you get out of debt and stay out of debt at bbb.org.
9. Fight fake check fraud. It’s easy for scammers to create professional-looking phony checks. Be extremely wary of checks that come with claims that you’ve won the lottery, are
eligible for a government grant or have landed a job as a secret shopper. These are almost always scams.
10. Get everything in writing.
Verbal agreements are often hard for both parties to remember. Put all verbal agreements in writing to limit miscommunication and misunderstandings between what you expect and what the business delivers.
Please report fraudulent activity or unscrupulous business practices to BBB Scam Tracker. Remember, great businesses are out there. Always look for the BBB seal; it’s the Sign of a Better Business SM . Start with companies you can trust by going to bbb.org.
Mechele Agbayani Mills, is president and CEO of BBB serving Central East Texas.
Move over bouquets and centerpieces. Flowers are taking over weddings in a big way. While wedding trends come and go, flowers will always have a place at the wedding table. Many modern couples are opting for statement pieces with their flowers to rival the big and bold ideas they’re incorporating elsewhere into their occasions, such as in cakes and clothing.
There’s no need to worry about seeing over table centerpieces or flowers getting in the way of photo moments. Florists can hang flowers from beams over tabletops to increase visual impact, whether as individual baskets, single stems, or floral swags. Think about a large installation that forces guests to look up into a sea of greenery and flowers. The smell and the sight can be breathtaking.
Why should wreaths only be reserved for front doors and holiday decor? A welcome floral wreath can be placed by the entryway to a chapel or reception hall with a heartfelt sentiment that shows guests how much they’re appreciated.
A floral curtain of hanging flowers can line a chuppah or drape the altar in beautiful blooms. Couples who would like a fairy-tale entrance also can make their debut as a couple by coming through a flower curtain at the reception.
Who says flowers have to be overhead or on a table? With a plexiglass dance floor, or one made from some other transparent material, flowers can be underfoot, creating a magical floral carpet. Floral necklaces Brides needn’t carry their bouquets, they can wear ethereal and whimsical floral pieces around their necks or on their waists instead. Couples are urged to speak with their florists about the innovative ways they can make flowers an even more awe-inspiring component of their weddings.
Various components combine to make weddings beautiful and memorable. Couples rely on photographers to capture the smiles and moments that helped make their events unique and to ensure the big day is remembered for years to come. The trusted wedding resource The Knot notes that an internal study found that, among 27,000 couples who got married in 2019, an average of $2,400 was spent on a wedding photographer to document their big day. Couples who want to find the best photographer for their wedding day can ask several questions before making their final decision.
Photographers may be able to shoot various styles of photos but may specialize in a specific type. For example, some photographers specialize in photojournalism, while others may excel at portraiture. Going with a photographer who has the most expertise shooting the style you prefer will help produce the desired results.
Certain photography studios have several photographers working under one roof. Just because you meet with one does not necessarily mean that photographer will be on site unless it is specified in the contract.
Photographers may be familiar with several local wedding venues and houses of worship. A photographer who has experience working in the locations where couples will tie the knot and subsequently celebrate might produce the best results, but lack of experience with particular venues need not exclude other professionals.
Can we see a full gallery of a recent wedding?
According to Brides magazine, unlike an album or a highlight gallery, a full gallery provides a better sense of a photographer’s style and attention to detail.
Will photos be color balanced and retouched?
Skilled photographers are capable of capturing winning photos. But photos can be enhanced further in the studio with retouching software to bring out specific effects. Some photographers will polish all proofs, while others only will work on the images ultimately ordered. Confirm retouching details before signing the contract.
A detailed price list helps you compare one photographer to another and decide which elements are covered. Additional prints, having a photographer’s assistant, ordering albums for the parents, or ordering a large framed print can alter costs significantly. Explore all prices to ensure you’re getting the best value. In addition, consider how many hours of event coverage are included in the price.
Photographers may accept deposits for their services but expect a different timeline of payment. Some may require payment in full before the wedding, while others may offer a payment plan that includes a final payment when picking up proofs or albums. Wedding photography is one of the essential elements of a wedding and helps tell the story of couples’ special day. Asking key questions can help couples find a photographer who will produce the desired results.
The question was popped; the engagement ring presented. What’s the next step on the road to the wedding? Saving should definitely be on couples’ minds. A wedding is likely the most-costly party couples will ever throw. According to The Knot’s 2019 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding in 2019 was $33,900. There are many different costs associated with weddings. Some are predictable, while others are unexpected. Investopedia says the vast majority of couples’ budget too little for their weddings and also end up spending more than they had planned. Various strategies can make it easier to save for a wedding and avoid a post-wedding financial hangover.
It’s impossible to budget for a wedding and ultimately save without knowledge of what services and items cost in the region where you live. A wedding in New York City will be expensive, while a wedding in Mississippi will cost a lot less, indicates SuperMoney’s guide to wedding costs. Conduct some research and find out what photographers, florists, transportation providers, reception halls, and wedding wardrobe vendors charge for common services. This will paint a vivid picture of what a wedding may cost in your area.
Once you have gathered estimates, you can then figure out a financial goal. This also is when you can determine where to rein in spending and where you might want to splurge. If having a video memory of the wedding is not a top priority, you can skip videography services. If you have a special flower that you like, you may want to budget more for that bloom even if it isn’t in season.
One of the easiest ways to save for big-ticket items like a wedding, home purchase or other financial goals is to use an automatic savings account that may be available through your bank or employer. An automatic savings plan will pull a set amount from a personal checking account into a savings account through auto-draft. The bride and groom can link individual checking accounts to one savings account to contribute jointly.
An analysis of your spending habits will likely reveal areas where you can scale back so you can devote more funds to wedding savings. Do you need a takeout coffee in the morning or can you brew a pot at home? Might you be able to scale back on streaming services? Do you feel comfortable buying less expensive store brand groceries over name brands? Small cost savings can quickly add up.
Factor in deduction of expenses that other people will commit to covering for wedding expenses, but only if you have concrete confirmation. A parent may host the rehearsal dinner. One’s relative may offer to pass down an antique wedding gown to wear. But rather than
simply removing these gifts from your savings calculations, keep them as a safety net to put toward unforeseen expenses. Saving for a wedding can be challenging. But various strategies can help couples plan their dream weddings without breaking the bank.
Diamond engagement rings are presented as tokens of love and affection during wedding proposals. The majority of first-time brides will receive a diamond ring, with surveys indicating only 13 percent opt for another gemstone.
Jim Bartlett of Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry said, “The qualities of diamonds is what makes it the number choice for engagements rings. Diamonds and love go together. They last forever. Come and check out the array of diamonds in our store. We will be happy to serve you in any way we can.”
Researchers from Emory University determined that the average price for a diamond ring is roughly $2,500. However, grooms can spend much more. Diamonds have symbolized eternal love for centuries, perhaps since they were first discovered in India more than 2,000 years ago. The ancient Greeks actually thought diamonds were tears of
the gods, while ancient Romans believed diamonds were splinters from heavenly stars.
The hardness of diamond contributes to its suitability as a gemstone. Because it can only be scratched by other diamonds, it maintains its polish extremely well. Unlike many other gems, it is well-suited to daily wear because of its resistance to scratching—perhaps contributing to its popularity as the preferred gem in engagement or wedding rings, which are often worn every day.
Invitations are a key component of wedding planning. It sets the tone for a wedding, gives guests an idea of whether it is formal or casual, offers clues to the theme and conveys important information about the festivities. While it was once common to work with a specialized printing couples tying the knot now have more options. Due to computer and internet access, and user-friendly design applications, it’s easier than ever to design high-quality wedding invitations. According to the wedding industry survey site TheWeddingReport.com, the average price for 150 invitations and response cards is $245. To maximize efficiency and come away with wedding stationery they will love, couples can employ the following tips and techniques. Start with the paper The heavier the stock, the more luxurious the invitations will feel.
Couples have many options to design and produce their wedding invites.
press Engraving and letterpress techniques are an art form and create unique wedding invitations.
Printing companies Options abound in regard to in-store and online printing companies.
At-home printing One of the more accessible invitation production methods is at-home printing.
Couples have many different options when designing their wedding invitations, and some may even be able to design and produce their own.
