The Conference Essentials: What's In Our Bag?

It’s almost here! Create & Cultivate Dallas is going to be our biggest conference yet. If you’re prepping for the big day we wanted to share a sneak peak of what we bring—  in case you need a little packing help. 

Shoulder Bag/Backpack.

Make sure the purse you bring is big enough to hold your goods, but won’t weigh you down. Accounts Director Hope Evans says, “A cumbersome bag can actually get in your way more than you think. C & C is half listening half networking— and when you’re networking you want to be carrying something you don’t have to think about or track. The focus should be on relationship building, not lugging something to-and-fro.”

Vaseline Lip Therapy Tins.

It’s dry in Dallas in the winter and first impressions are crucial. A chapped lip is not your best look. The innovative and iconic Vaseline Lip Therapy Tins not only give you a natural, glossy shine, but also are clinically proven to help heal dry lips and give you moisture that lasts the day long. And C & C is a long day. Even C & C Founder Jaclyn Johnson makes sure to keep one in each of her handbags and at her desk.

Notebook.

There’s so much to do, see, and write-down. From scribbling down quotes from keynote speakers to sound biz advice, the notebook you take home might be chock-full of points that can take your brand to the next level. “You might think, ‘Oh, I’ll remember that,’” says Editorial Director Arianna Schioldager, “but there is so much good content, you should write down exactly what strikes you in a moment,.” (Pens are important too.) 

iPhone + Charger.

Social Director Priscilla Castro says, “This is not the time to forget your phone or run out of battery, and while you might think this never happens, it does. Double check your bag before you leave your hotel.” From adding new contacts to all the IG gold— like a sketch done by Paper Fashion’s Katie Rodgers at the Vaseline pop-up during the 4:30-5:30 break. And be sure to #creatcultivatedallas #VaselineLipTins

Instant Film Camera.

Everyone loves those little photos. Plus, if you meet someone you like, snap a shot, and write your number and email on the back. Not only will they go home with a snapped memory, but it’s like a personalized business card. 

Rent the Runway Offering 15% Off to C & C Dallas Attendees!

You plan outfits for dates, interviews, work drinks, and more. Create & Cultivate is no different. You're going to meet tons of people and you should want to dress to impress. First impressions and whatnot. (Charm them with your brain next). And packing for Create & Cultivate Dallas just got a little easier the help of our friends at Rent the Runway. 

Be on the lookout for an email offering codes to all Dallas attendees to take 15% off anything on the site. 

We look forward to seeing you-- and your outfit-- in Dallas! 

6 Ways to Maximize Your Create & Cultivate Experience

We can’t believe it’s here again. Create & Cultivate Dallas is only two weeks away. As our team nails down last minute preparations, you can also begin preparing, especially if you’re a first timer. We want you maximize your C & C experience, so here are our six tips on how to make that happen.

Pack Right

You don’t need a lot for the conference, a weekender bag is enough, but Saturday is a jam-packed day. (Ahem, wear flats.) Which means you should have a bag big enough for a notebook, Mophie power pack for your phone— you don’t want to miss all those powerhouse #createcultivatedallas IG moments, and business cards.

Pick Your Mentors Now

The mentor experience makes Create & Cultivate one-of-a-kind. If you’ve had your eye on a mentor and don’t want to miss the opportunity to get one-on-one time with her, don’t wait until the last minute. 

Stay in Your Happy, Power Place

Girls compete, women empower. You are going to be surrounded by a lot of women, some of whom are trying to create a brand the same way you are. Don’t get stuck in the competition, bur rather use this as an opportunity to network, make friends, and potential business partnerships. There is enough success out there for everyone, so stay open to the possibilities.  

Get Prepped

One of the hardest questions to answer is, “What do you do?” especially when you’re starting your own business. Have this nailed down so that you are confident when meeting new people. Beyond that, look over the panelist list and have questions ready. There are Q & A sections after every panel, and if you have something you’re dying to ask, have it prepped. The better the questions, the better the panel— so be specific. Plus, if someone takes interest in the kind of question you ask, you never know who will end up approaching you. 

Take Advantage of Everything on Site

Be sure to check out and check in to all the pop-up shops on site. We recommend getting your hair braided, makeup retouched, your portrait sketched by Paper Fashion’s Katie Rodgers at Vaseline’s pop-up, and snapping a photo in the Framebridge photobooth. The options are endless. Mix, mingle, create, cultivate and shop. (And maybe eat a cupcake while you’re at it.) 

Get Out of Your Comfort Zone 

There is a social happy hour the night before the conference that we highly recommend you attend. Create & Cultivate is not the time be a wall flower. We know it’s hard to be bold, put out your hand and yourself on the line, but it’s worth it. You’re here for a reason, you paid for a reason. So If need be, give yourself a little mirror pep talk in the mirror before you leave your hotel room. If you don’t know where to start, say hi to our founder, Jaclyn Johnson, or any of the Create & Cultivate team. We are here to make sure your conference experience is an engaged and wonderful experience. 

How I Did It: Rachel Schwartzmann Turned a Tumblr Into a Business

The Style Line, helmed by founder Rachel Schwartzmann, a New Yorker with an eye for style and an ear for storytelling, is all about bringing authenticity back to the web. Think of the site as the perfectly tailored dress every woman should have in her closet. There is an elegance to the content, curating a gallery of the most "passionate and creative people in the world." She also runs  CONNECT(ED)ITORIAL™, a consulting business that helps brands strengthen their editorial arm. 

How did she do it: a pep talk from dad, hard work (always, hard work), and making sure she catches up on her zss.

I got my start: My start was a little out of the ordinary. I started The Style Line on tumblr as a high school senior! I was obviously working on it in a very different capacity than I am now, but hey everyone has to start somewhere right?

How did you make the jump from tumblr to site? Since it’s very first inception tumblr was so supportive of our early mission and content. I grew up in New York so I had access to the industry very early on and was fortunate to reach out to them and luckily I was able to maintain a very significant relationship. They helped spotlight the tumblr page which allowed for rapid growth - enough that I think I felt there was a core audience there that would want to grow with us as we entered a more “official” phase in 2013.

Decision that changed everything: The catalyst for taking on The Style Line full-time came right before entering my junior year at FIT. Up until that point I had been doing the usual: schoolwork, interning and working on The Style Line has a side-hustle. I knew that I wanted to see The Style Line through to its full potential and at that point it was just a matter of when. So with the encouragement of my dad, I decided to forgo the program and form a company. In August 2013 I relaunched the site, formed our LLC and haven’t looked back.

Scariest moment of my career: I won’t share any specific anecdotes, but the scariest moments have come when loss has occurred. Loss of control, loss of motivation, etc. But what I’ve learned is that even when faced with loss you quickly learn to turn these moments into opportunities and in turn, you have that much more to gain.

Most euphoric moment of my career: In retrospect it’s all really just starting! But anytime I have the opportunity to work with or feature people I admire or those I think our readers would really identify with. But if I had to choose a  few highlights would include: our sustainable design collaboration with Melissa Joy Manning (in partnership with CFDA), being a finalist for the Shorty Award’s Best in Fashion category and recently, launching our consultancy business  CONNECT(ED)ITORIAL™.

That nagging voice in my head tells me: Get out of your comfort zone, but don't lose sight of your values. One of the biggest compliments we receive about The Style Line is our continued efforts to maintain an authentic sense of community, one that I think so important in a rapidly evolving landscape.

"Get out of your comfort zone, but don't lose sight of your values."

Tweet this. 

Every morning: Coffee.

The last time I took a break: Last year I came up with a resolution inspired by my work to travel every month of 2015 to a different city in the U.S. Naturally I didn’t really feel like working when this was happening and it allowed for me to take a step back, a deep breath, and regain some clarity. 

The last time I felt overwhelmed: I slept for 13 hours. That’s my big coping mechanism - letting my mind and my body rest.

The most rewarding part of The Style Line: I feel so fortunate that we’ve been able to cultivate so many great friendships, partnerships and stories. It’s been even more amazing to see how many connections our collaborators have made with one another through a shared interest in our values and mission. 

My go-to zen spot: I’m not sure I have one! I really enjoy having a hot chocolate at Cafe Orlin. I don’t live anywhere near St. Marks Place or ever have a distinct reason to go that far but there’s something about the cafe that makes me feel at ease.

What impact does style have on your life? A huge one! It’s essentially at the core of my work (we love exploring how it relates to other industries/conversations) and I consider it to be my primary form of self-expression.

How do you make sure The Style Line stands out? I make sure there is a balance in our content. Our stories are pretty lengthy so we work to have each story serve as an experience (by including dynamic visuals that illustratively help bring these stories to life!). Speaking more to this: our premise is showing how personal style can play a role in some of the world’s bigger conversations but getting people interested in the other side of that (the harder conversations) is a tall order. So I’m constantly making sure that what we publish is relevant, responsible but still totally rad… so far I think we’re on the right track!

Be sure to check out Rachel at Create Cultivate Dallas at the end of this month! Where she'll be speaking on finding a fresh approach in a crowded market. 

Look At These Betches Now: Madlibbing Jordana Abraham and Aleen Kuperman

Jordana Abraham, Aleen Superman, and Samantha Fishbein (NY Times)

In 2011 Jordana Abraham, Aleen Kuperman, and Samantha Fishbein started a "college humor" blog called Betches Love This. Just a few years and a name change later, Betches, is now the satire site for women who have a sense of humor. With articles like, "10 Healthy-ish Food Instas To Keep You On Your Resolution To Lose 3 Pounds" they are on to something good. Or maybe they're already there. If we are to believe a 2013 NY Times article, the .com has its founders laughing all the way to the bank.

We caught up with Aleen and Jordana ahead of their appearance at Create Cultivate Dallas. And because we don't like mad-dogging other women, we Mad Libbed them. 5th grade style. 

Make sure to catch Aleen and Jordana on What's your angle? Finding an fresh approach to a crowded marketplace at Create & Cultivate Dallas January 30th! 

The Ride of Their Lives: How SoulCycle Founders Killed the Startup Game

Julie Rice, left, and Elizabeth Cutler, right. Co-Founders, SoulCycle. 

Julie Rice and Elizabeth Cutler are the co-founders of SoulCycle, that chain of luxury indoor cycling gyms that inspired just about everyone you know to get their butt on a stationary bike. The experience has been likened to a drug. The rooms are dark, hot, and sweaty. The music is loud and the instructors have more energy than you on a good day. But what SoulCycle has proven itself capable of is providing its clients with a riding high that translates into day-to-day wellness. It's not a business, it's a "movement." 

The co-founders started with one studio in 2006 on the Upper West Side in New York, and in July of 2015 the lifestyle startup filed for a 100 million dollar initial public offering with the goal to expand from 46 studios on the East and West coasts to 250 nationwide. 

Who knew that a couple of moms could reshape the way we work out? They did. 

We checked in with Elizabeth and Julie, who both now serve as SoulCycle's co-chief creative officers, in anticipation of Create & Cultivate Dallas where they'll be diving into the story of their success and the soul behind the cycle. 

You both changed careers, which can be scary at any point, for anyone. What advice would you give women looking to make a big switch?

EC: Act on your gut and commit. If you make a mistake, learn from that mistake and move on. Don’t let it paralyze you.

You saw a profit after six months, which is amazing and crazy! How did you manage such accelerated success? 

JR: We always had a very clear vision of the brand we wanted to create. We innovated indoor cycling and created the ultimate customer experience.

EC: SoulCycle was built on word of mouth! Our best marketers don’t work for the company; they’re the ones riding in our studios.

Can you recall moments of self-doubt? Confusion? 

EC: Of course—there were a lot along the way. Julie and I have complimentary skills and where she excels, I often lack and vice versa. When one of us had doubts the other always pushed us along!

JR: Elizabeth is fearless! 

A lot of SoulCycle die-hards love it because they get out of their heads and escape. But when that escape is your business, are you able to separate the two and immerse yourselves in the experience of a class? 

JR: Definitely—we created SoulCycle because we were looking for a workout experience that didn’t exist. We were users from day one! When the lights go out and the beat drops we lose ourselves in the workout. 

EC: A lot of my best ideas have come to me on the bike!

For those that say luxury exercise is a fad, how would you respond?

JR: Investing in your health isn’t a fad! It’s important that people find joy in exercise.  

"Investing in your health isn’t a fad!" 

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How do you balance business and all the day-to-day of life?

JR: It’s always been about about integrating the two, and I mean that literally! When we opened our first studio we worked the front desk and brought our daughters to work with us. They grew up in the business.

EC:  One of our company’s core values is to “recharge.” We have surrounded ourselves with the best team to scale and grow the business. It enables us to spend time with our families and take vacations.

SoulCycle was originally self-funded. For those without startup capital, what’s the best piece of advice you have?

EC: We had some startup capital from an investment I had made into the soft drink brand, Izze. After that we relied on our American Express cards! Every time we needed to up our credit limit, they were there, and truly we would not exist today if weren’t for American Express!

JR: In the beginning, we worked in the studio and didn’t pay ourselves. My advice to an entrepreneur is to get dirty and keep expenses down!

Business advice: "Get dirty and keep expenses down!"

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Favorite song to Cycle to right now?

JR: I’m obsessed with Hamilton the musical and love cycling to the soundtrack. We keep adding Hamilton theme rides to the schedule and they sell out instantly!

Elizabeth you’ve admitted to be “anxious and scared,” about going to the gym postpartum. SoulCycle classes can be a little intimidating for women getting back to gym (whether because of baby or otherwise). What would you say to them?

EC: We ride in candlelight--I promise that no one is watching you! It is the one place you can go and be completely anonymous.

Are there any plans for global SoulCycle? How do you see the business growing from here? 

JR: SoulCycle is a lifestyle brand. We have brick and mortar studios, a retail line, and content. We are working hard to bring SOUL to as many people as we can, as quickly as possible. We want to connect with our riders in many areas of their lives, not just when they are in our studios.

What did SoulCycle mean to you when you started? What does it mean to you now? 

EC: SoulCycle has evolved but has stayed true to our original vision. It’s the meeting of physical strength, mental health and spiritual wellbeing.

JR: SoulCycle motivates riders to be the best version of themselves.

"SoulCycle motivates riders to be the best version of themselves."

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What does Create & Cultivate mean to you? 

JR: Inspiration and community.

#CreateCultivateDTLA: Complimentary Luxe Valet for VIPs

#CreateCultivateDTLA is only a few weeks away, and we want to make sure that you're ready for the big day from what you need to bring to where you park your car. That's why we partnered with our friends at Luxe to ensure that your VIP experience at the conference nad provide you on-demand parking for the you!

HOW IT WORKS

First thing is first, make sure you download the Luxe app here for your $20 credit.

Before you start your drive, make a request through the app for a Luxe valet attendant to meet you at Hudson Lofts (1200 S. Hope St. Los Angeles, CA 90015). Upon arrival, pull up to be greeted by your Luxe valet, who will be pictured in the app. While parked, you can request a car wash, gas up, or even an oil change - just select in the app!

WHEN YOU'RE READY TO LEAVE

When you're ready to leave, place your return request at least 15-20 minutes beforehand and have your car brought to you anywhere in Downtown LA, or schedule your return in advance to be brought to you at a specific time and place.

And just like that' you're set with getting your complimentary VIP parking thanks to Luxe!

If you have questions, feel free to ask us hello@thereisnosubject.com

Create & Cultivate: Looking Back, Looking Ahead

December is like the Friday of months. Everyone's brain goes on a bit of a vacation, or on a nostalgic walk through the last year. It happens to the best of us-- the holidays tend to bring out the dreamer. 

It's even happening around the Create & Cultivate office. In part because we've always got C & C on the brain, and the conversations that happen on site at the conferences keep up invigorated year-round. But also because prepping for Dallas is making us a wee bit nostalgic for our favorite moments of 2015. 

So, raise a glass, put on your female alpha hat, and toast to an amazing last year and an even better 2016. 

there's room at the top for everyone; it's harder to get there all by yourself.

Emily Jackson of The Ivory Lane (tweet this)

start each day by sending a selfless email—no networking or plan-making, just a friendly check-up.

melisse gelula of well + good

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Merry Christmas from everyone at Create & Cultivate! 

Boss Dating Tips from Bumble CEO Whitney Wolfe

Whitney Wolfe is the Founder of Bumble. The dating app where women have to make the first move (because you only live Beyonce, amiright all my single ladies?). Which seems to be an approach that many women are taking in both their business and personal lives. But when you’re busy hustling, it’s highly possible that dating falls at the bottom of a very long to-do list. So we checked in with the CEO to find out her tips for dating when you’re a boss, like her. 

1.  When you’re busy, throwing paint against the wall to see what sticks isn’t the best approach. Part of the point of dating apps is to suss people out, “break the ice, keep it lighthearted, and let us be your wing woman,” says Wolfe. Use this opportunity almost as a first date that doesn’t require you to leave your house. (If only dating was actually that easy. *sobs in ice cream.*) 

"Use dating apps as an opportunity almost as a first date that doesn’t require you to leave your house.” 

Tweet this.

2.  There are plenty of fish in the sea, and the pool of Bumble men is on point. But with over 1 million users just about evenly split between men and woman, remember: mercury poisoning is also real— we’re looking at you Jeremy Piven, emoji wink. So you need to manage your expectations about what a dating app can do, in the same way you manage your stress, employees, work load, and email inbox. There’s no magic bullet for anything. Mitigating expectancies is crucial, especially when you’re first starting out.

3. No group photos. Do you head into an investor meeting with a posse? Do you bring your bestie to your business brunch? Nope. If you want to be taken seriously, be serious. Show your face in your profile pic. Wolfe says, “If you have six photos of you and all your friends, it’s going to be harder for you to make great matches.” Beyond that, it’s fine to show that you have friends and you *woop Drake voice* know how to cut a rug, but as a HBIC you should also know there is such a thing as over-selling it. Be confident in you. That said…

4. You’re a Boss in the boardroom. There’s no reason you can’t be Queen Boss on Bumble too. Wolfe says, “There is nothing more attractive than confidence and intelligence.” We’d have to agree. If a man is intimidated by a powerful woman, then he’s not the man for you. Going on a date with him is just a waste of your time. If in in your initial convo he’s trying to one-up you, give him the the ole “BRB” and never come back. 

5. Time and again female CEOs reiterate how important it is to be authentic. When you’re looking for investors, when you’re starting a business, when you’re pitching a client— authenticity and honestly are key when making smart business decisions. Wolfe says, “I would never wear red lipstick in real life, so for me to then put photos with a full face of makeup and red lipstick would be ridiculous. Sure, it might get more right swipes, but it’s not the right kind of men I’d be attracting. It’s not important to have a first date—it’s important to have something authentic and real.”

It’s not important to have a first date—it’s important to have something authentic and real.”

Tweet this. 

6. Use your time wisely, and be online during peak times. There are good times to Instagram (ahem, 12nEST when Europeans are home from work, the east coast is heading to lunch and the west coast is rising and shining), and there are smart times to Bumble. That sweet honey hour for Bumble according to Wolfe, “is at 6pm.” Which just happens to be Happy Hour. Coincidence? Nope. 

Be sure to check out Whitney on the Main Stage this January at Create & Cultivate Dallas, where she’ll be dolling out much more than dating tips. Think: How she landed a spot as the first female guest on Trevor Noah’s “The Daily Show.” 

5 Tips on Landing The Job You Want (& Then Keeping It!)

Soniya Monga is busy. After helping launch LinkedIn Canada in 2010, she was named one of Marketing’s 2013 Top 30 Under 30. Now based in New York, she's been with the networking company for five years, successfully growing her own brand within its ranks. She's now working on global agency partnerships and spent time cultivating and growing global experience based out of Hong Kong for LinkedIn North Asia. From Day 1 (which she spent grabbing office supplies) to Day RN, Soniya's professional triumphs are impressive including speaking at the internationally recognized One Young World (Davos for the cool kids). Which is why we wanted to find out from her just how to land that dream job-- because she's got know-how in spades.    

Be sure to check-in with Soniya at Create & Cultivate Dallas, where she'll be a mentor and panel moderator.

PICK WHICH GAME YOU'RE PLAYING

A big part of success is picking which game you’re playing. In the tech industry people refer to this as pivoting, but I think it can apply to careers. If your current plan or company isn’t working for you, pivot to a new one where you can win. Choose to be somewhere where you’ll be valued.

"Choose to be somewhere where you’ll be valued."

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BE UN-CONFIDENT WHEN TRYING SOMETHING NEW 

Let yourself see how things become less scary through experience. When I was working at LinkedIn in Asia, doing business in Korea felt scary and was the definition of being outside of my area of comfort. I didn’t know the language, understand the cultural nuances, or frankly feel qualified to have a seat at the table. But trip after trip, the challenge became subsequently less intimidating. It taught me to always to consider your audience and who you’re talking to, and to respect that audience immensely. 

CRAFT A CAREER ACCORDING TO YOUR STRENGTHS

Growing up, I always thought that having a profession was the ultimate pinnacle of success. By calling myself a doctor, lawyer, etc., I was under the assumption that this would be most fulfilling. For some, this is true, and that’s wonderful, but I quickly realized that following passion projects, thinking about ideas and finding a way to package that into a job I love, has been most gratifying. 

DON'T BE AN IDEA STEALER OR KNOW-IT-ALL

Instead be a question asker – asking questions is simply the best way to break through, challenge yourself and the environment around you. I think the art of inquiry is often the most underrated form of expression. Whenever I've asked the most questions being new to a job, team or country, I've found it helpful in breaking barriers and learn 10x faster. Also, know-it-alls aren't fun to be around or work with - give credit wherever you can. 

"The art of inquiry is often the most underrated form of expression."

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WHETHER YOU REALIZE IT OR NOT, YOU'RE SELF-EMPLOYED

Think about picking a career where growth is dependent on the quality of your decisions – this can ensure you’re positioning yourself to over-index for skill vs. time, and can potentially generate a higher pay off. At my time at LinkedIn specifically, I’ve been fortunate enough to work in multiple “start-up like” environments, which meant doing everything from ordering envelopes to talking to CEOs of global companies in the same day. You may not be an entrepreneur in the traditional sense, but it’s important to act like one.

Whether you want to lead and build a company some day or make high impact in your current job, self-improvement is for everyone. There are clearly more than five things you can and should do to optimize for career success, however, making intentional choices throughout your career will hopefully help you land the job you want...and keep it!

Since 2010, Soniya Monga's career journey with LinkedIn has grown exponentially. The maven built their presence in Canada and took the helm as the company's global agency partnership lead. She was also named Marketing's Top 30 Under 30 when she was regional account director for LinkedIn, North Asia. Hear some of Soniya's best tips for building strategic partnerships and how she's been able to expand the brand internationally at her mentor session at Create & Cultivate Dallas.

Sleeping in With Ariel Kaye of Parachute Home

Parachute Home is a direct-to-consumer home essentials brand based in Venice Beach, CA, helmed by Founder and CEO Ariel Kaye. Prior to launching Parachute, Ariel spent ten years working in brand development and advertising in New York City, but after an amazing night's rest in luxurious sheets at a hotel in Italy, she was on the hunt for the same experience at home. When she couldn't find it, she took matters into her own hands: "If you can't find it, create it." 

Create it, she did. 

We caught up with the bedding maven to find out what she's thinking about at 4am and if it's possible to relax when you're in the business of bedding.

Your favorite bedtime drink?

I love to wind down with chamomile tea. It is almost instantly relaxing, and there’s good reason for that, too. It’s rich in calcium, magnesium and other trace minerals that naturally relax muscles and nerves.

Do you sleep with the windows open or closed?

I try to bring the outdoors inside as much as possible with big, open windows…I love being cozy under warm blankets and feeling a fresh breeze. 

Snuggled under the covers or throw them off?

I’m one of those people who is half in and half out. I always end up with one leg above the covers. 

Early to bed or early to rise?

I’m in flux, honestly. I definitely prefer life as a morning person and try and get to bed by 10:30pm on the weekdays. I especially love waking up early on the weekends. There’s nothing better than getting in a long workout and a delicious breakfast all before 10am. l do still find myself burning the midnight oil on occasion –there’s something about the wee hours of the night when when you feel like you’re the only one awake and there are zero distractions. I can be super productive then.

The last time you slept in? What did it feel like?

I love sleeping in on vacation. My boyfriend and I went to the Ojai Rancho Inn a few weeks ago, and we turned off our phones and woke up at 11am. It felt like heaven.

What’s on your nightstand right now?

My days are so frenetic, I keep my room clear of clutter to keep calm. I only stock my nightstand with my essentials: a himalayan salt lamp, a tall glass of water, book and my iPhone.

How many pillows is too many pillows?

There can never be too many pillows. I have four right now, plus two decorative ones on top. 

"There can never be too many pillows."

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What’s the color scheme in your bedroom? What does it reveal about you?

I’m all about neutrals. My bed currently has our Ash Percale Bedding, and it’s accented with our newly launched Essential Quilt and Shams in Graphite. I accent with a few plants to bring some color and greenery into the space.

It’s 4 a.m. and you’re wide-awake. What are you thinking about? 

Work. Always work.

Guiltiest TV pleasure to watch in bed?

I don’t watch much “guilty pleasure” programming. Right now I’m obsessed with “Fargo” and “The Affair.” 

A bad bedtime habit you can’t quit?

My biggest tip for the perfect night’s sleep, which I have a very hard time following through with, is disconnecting from your phone. Get rid of the blue lights and put your phone outside your bedroom. Don't look at your computer in your bed. I don't do a great job at it – the first thing I pick up in the morning is my phone – but there are times when I try to be diligent, and it's amazing how it affects the quality of my sleep.

Something most people don’t know about you?

I’m a trained opera singer. You’d probably only know this if we’ve been out to karaoke together and I’ve had a drink or two!

Don’t lose sleep over:

The small stuff. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the little things, but don’t lose sight of the big picture.

"Don’t lose sleep over: The small stuff." 

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Why are luxury sheets so important to you? How do they make your life better?

You spend ⅓ of  your life in bed, so your sleep experience matters. A good night sleep impacts every aspect of your life - your health, happiness, productivity. We spend time counting our steps, obsessing over the ingredients in our food and making sure that we are taking care of our bodies. It’s important to take that same type of consideration with the way recharge each night. 

Sheets come in direct contact with your skin, so it’s extremely important that they feel good and that they are free from harmful substances. I sleep better at night knowing Parachute sheets are made of the finest, long staple Egyptian cotton and that they are Oeko-Tex and REACH protocol certified, which means no toxic chemicals or artificial dyes. 

Your dream sleepover?

Does a sleepover with my best girlfriend count? Talking until the sun comes up and laughing until it hurts...there’s nothing better!

Meet the Mentors: Create & Cultivate Dallas

Wondering which #CreateCultivateDallas mentor is the best fit for your blog, business, or brand? 

From entrepreneurship to blogging to social media, our mentors have all the bases covered. Check out all of our Dallas mentors and their areas of expertise below! They're amazing, multi-talented women and we can't wait for you to meet them in January!

Rachel Schwartzmann - CEO & Founder - The Style Line

Best for: Social Media, Blogging, Entrepreneurship

Rachel Schwartzmann is the Founder and CEO of The Style Line LLC. She created The Style Line in late January 2011 via tumblr, which now hosts a following of over 488k+ followers on that platform alone; and has fostered The Style Line’s brand in it’s growth, since. In August 2013, she relaunched The Style Line, built their website and brought on a small team of contributors. Rachel has worked with companies including Tumblr, IBM, and numerous fashion brands and has been featured in esteemed sources including Women’s Wear Daily, Teen Vogue, Conscious Magazine, Darling Magazine, Mashable and Refinery29.She has also partnered with WWD’s MAGIC Trade-show in conjunction with Teen Vogue, as a digital media influencer speaking to brands about the importance of online presence and social media marketing. In both September 2012 and 2013 she was chosen as one of Tumblr’s participating influencers in their seasonal fashion week program, partnering with companies including SONY, MILK Studios and the CFDA. Rachel has also spoken at Columbia University, Goldman Sachs and 92Y’s Passport NYC program, and participated as a mentor in Columbia University’s Women@CORE mentoring program. She has published work for The Huffington Post, and NYLON Mexico and has blogged for companies including Jeffrey Campbell, ASOS and Nasty Gal.On October 1, 2015 she launched The Style Line’s in-house content consultancy, CONNECT(ED)ITORIAL™ whose efforts focus heavily on helping brands building and maintain a strong brand blog/editorial arm.

Devon Cruse of DevonRachel.com

Best for: Blogging, Styling

As a Dallas native, Devon has worked her way from the ground up to be where she is now. Just a few days before she was set to graduate from Texas Tech, she was offered a job by celebrity stylist Taylor Jacobson in LA. The rest is history. Get the best tips on how to get into the styling game and become a full-time blogger from Devon at her session next month.

 

Jessy Fofana - Founder and CEO of LaRue PR

Best for: PR

 

Jessy Fofana is our go-to for all things PR. With her PR agency LARue PR, she has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to utilizing PR to strategically grow brands and get them on the right radar. Not only that, she is our seasoned PR correspondent for the Create & Cultivate blog. Get her advice in-person at Create & Cultivate Dallas!

Jay Goldmark - Co-Founder of EmiJay

Best for: Entrepreneurs, Philanthropy,  E-commerce

Jay is the co-founder of EmiJay, a hair accessory and apparel brand, who dipped her feet into entrepreneurship at the age of 18-- as a college freshman. Still in college, she is mastering the work, life, and school balance. Hear how she brought EmiJay to life and pick up her tips on how to balance it all at her mentor session.

Kendi Skeen - Creator at KendiEveryday.com

Best for: Blogging, Entrepreneurship

Kendi, creator of Kendi Everyday and Dallas native, has been killing it in the blogging game since launching kendieveryday.com in '09. Fast forward 6 years. Kendi's style has evolved, but her blog has remained a go-to guide for the every girl with a high-low approach to personal style. Hear from Kendi on how she's grown her blog (while owning her own boutique) at her mentor session!

Brandy Pham - Jewelry Designer + Founder and CCO of Planogr.am

Best for: Entrepreneurship, Jewelry Design, E-commerce

Brandy Pham started a luxury jewelry line that fulfill's every minimalist's dream, being it's simple and dainty. But her approach to social media strategy is anything but. When she couldn't find what she wanted within Instagram, she created Planogr.am, a visual Instagram scheduler that is every marketer's dream. If you're looking to launch a product or an app, or want to hear about taking matters into your own hands, Brandy is your girl. 

Amy Locurto - LivingLocurto.com

Best for: Social Media, Blogging, Branding

Known for her DIY party ideas, cute food, printable designs, delicious recipes and love of cats, Amy’s goal is to inspire others to be more creative through her whimsical and fun style on LivingLocurto.com. Amy is also a Pinterest Ambassador and is a content creator for brands such as Coca-Cola, Universal Studios, FedEx Office, Seagrams Escapes and eBay.

Maxie McCoy - Creator of MaxieMcCoy.com

Best for: Life Coaching, Soul Searching, Career Development

Maxie is a dynamic writer and speaker with a message: how to find and follow your inspiration for an extraordinary life. An inspiration luminary, Maxie delivers heart-busting writings, actionable videos, and customized sessions on maxiemccoy.com. (and often for the C+C Blog). She built her career first as a sports broadcaster in Dallas and went on to build the global offline communities for Levo League. If you need a little soul boost in your career or your life – Maxie's your girl.

Soniya Monga, Global Agency Partner Lead at LinkedIn

Best for: Marketing, Career Development, Strategic Partnerships

Since 2010, Soniya Monga's career journey with LinkedIn has grown exponentially. The maven built their presence in Canada and took the helm as the company's global agency partnership lead. She was also named Marketing's Top 30 Under 30 when she was regional account director for LinkedIn, North Asia. Hear some of Soniya's best tips for building strategic partnerships and how she's been able to expand the brand internationally at her session. 

Melissa Lawson,‎Director, Influencer Partnerships & Marketing at Clique Media

Best for: Marketing, Influencer Partnerships

For the past two years, Melissa has worked to grow Clique Media's channels as Campaign Strategy and Execution Manager, Senior Manager of Publisher Partnerships, and most recently Director of influencer Partnerships and Marketing. Hear from Melissa on how she's been able to climb the ranks at Clique Media, and hear some of her best tips on how to market your brand through strategic partnerships and more at her session. 

If you've already got your #CreatecultivateDaIlas tickets, check your inbox in the coming weeks to make your official mentor selection.

And if you don't have tickets...what are you waiting for!? Click here to get your tickets now - they'll be gone before you know it!

Good Vibes Only: Touring the HelloGiggles Office

"We set the tone from the beginning that we would only allow positivity and a supportive community, and that took the lead." Co-founder Sophia Rossi on maintaining the voice of the site.  

And hustle. The startup was recently acquired by Time Inc. for a reported 30 million. 

Development Executive Caroline Edwards finds working on the couch in the lounge, "a very comfy, social, and productive area." 

Shelves are filled with games and books that take you way back. "Sweet Valley High" and "Baby-Sitters Club" back. When forced to choose between the two series, Sophia says "SVH, all the way." 

As for the expansion, Sophia sees the company becoming, " A multi-platform media brand-- from a marketplace for our illustrators, to original digital series, to TV and Film."

The conference room that launched a million giggles. 

Contributor artwork hangs on the wall. 

Also in conference room: VIBB. Very important boom box. 

Editor in Chief Jen Romolini has been with HG for almost 2 years. Her most valued item in her office, nay world? "My Meryl pic is my favorite thing in the world. She's such a kick ass, creative, intellectual woman, who calls her own shots. Which is what I want to be. In control of my own destiny." 

"Hello, Ryan Gosling?" Sale Director Evelyn Weisskohl answers her Dream Phone. 

On the desk, copies of Sophia's latest book, "A Tale of Two Besties: A Hello Giggles Novel." Aforementioned Dream Phone. And a peppy mug. The usual. 

To stay positive and snark-free a la HelloGiggles manifesto, Sophia says, "I TM (transcendental mediate twice a day)." Also keeping her giggling: "Anything that Erin Foster or Nicole Richie text me."

HelloGiggles played nice on the internet. And won. The company, founded in 2011 by Zooey Deschanel, Sophia Rossi, and Molly McCleer, had one initial goal: to be a place to make the internet smile. Almost five years later, the site has turned its posi content readers into full-fledged giggle junkies, with a reported readership of 18 million uniques a month.

Sales Director Evelyn Weisskohl told us, "I was a fangirl before I worked here. This office is exactly like reading the site, but in real life." 

At the moment, IRL, HelloGiggles has a staff of 29-- 4 of whom are based in New York. It's a number that Sophia expects to at least double over the next two years, as the team also intends to take over the office space next door. 

A recent acquisition by Time Inc. for a reported $30 million, is making the expansion possible. Sophia, who is staying on and will report to Time Inc.'s executive VP says, "It feels very validating to go from my apartment to being a part of a public company like Time Inc. We are going to be run independently but have all the benefits of this legacy brand as partners."

We popped into the company's DTLA office on the heels of the purchase and in anticipation of Sophia's trip to Dallas for Create & Cultivate this January. Click through to get the deets on their digs and the happiest staff, maybe, ever. 

All images courtesy of Jeff Mindell. 

HelloGiggles office designed by Clayton Asher Doyle of Plantation Design. 

Future So Bright for Artist Nobel Truong

When you graduate high school at 16, there's a good chance you're gonna be ahead of the game. For artist and producer Nobel Truong, it's certainly proving true. After graduating from UC Berkeley with a degree in philosophy, she crossed the pond to attend Cambridge and study philosophy and business. Degrees which, at first glance seem a bit incongruous, but have served her artistic existence well. "Keeping an open mind and being flexible is something that is important to bring to any business model," she says. "Even if you do not work with a physical product, it is always important to consider the different ways something can be executed."

From ceramics and furniture to prints, acrylics, and textiles, Nobel has her creative hands in all mediums, producing projects out of Nobl, her creative studio. 

We checked in with the San Francisco-based designer to get the goods on her process, her seemingly endless supply of creative juice, and why she prefers transparency in both business and her materials. 

Where did the idea for the illuminated cacti come from?

I had a dimly lit apartment and needed more lighting in the space. I had also just learned how to use a laser cutter and wanted to work with acrylic--  plastics are the best material to cut on a laser cutter. I was really inspired by the Memphis Group and was a bit nostalgic of the mid-century decor and architecture of my hometown in Southern California, so I felt succulent themed lighting would be most fitting. I had some idea of a succulent lamp from the start, but it went through a few iterations before it became the product that I have now. I debuted the cactus lamp at Pop Up Flea in Los Angeles in September and the support for the product has been so great that I began making more fluorescent acrylic pieces and larger scale cacti.

Who are some designers you admire?

Marcel Breuer, Le Corbusier, and Mies van der Rohe. I am a huge admirer of the structural forms and function that marked Bauhaus architecture and the play on colors and shapes pioneered by the Memphis Group. I also draw a lot of inspiration from the works of Noguchi, Ray and Charles Eames, and Nelson for the furniture I design and build. I am particularly interested in mid-century modern furniture and home decor. All in all, I think there is an appeal to good design which transcends different creative fields and it is for this reason that I look to architects, industrial designers, and graphic designers for inspiration in my work.

How do you feel being female in the male-dominated design space?

It definitely has its challenges and there have been times where I felt intimidated by my peers in the field, but I have also learned that if you are passionate about your work and you are driven in what you do, then gender really does not matter. As I continue to work in the field, the peers I used to be intimidated by have now become sources of inspiration and motivation. Any doubts I have had in my ability and work are now new projects or challenges to take on. I have always worked by the motto that "you can do anything" and so I never really saw issue with hauling my own lumber to the shop among the primarily male woodshop community. Beyond this, I also often look to Florence Knoll, Ray Eames, and other female figures in the industrial design space as inspiration to continue pursuing the field and not let the fact that I am in a male-dominated design space steer me away from my creative endeavors. 

"If you are passionate about your work gender really does not matter."

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How did you make the transition from objects to furniture? Has working in a larger medium been more challenging than expected? In what ways?

Actually, a lot of my work grew out of necessity. I started with housewares because when I had housemates the only furnishings I had control over were my bowls and cups. So, I took ceramics classes and made bowls and cups. I moved into my own apartment this January and couldn't find furniture that fit my aesthetic, was conservatively priced, and was also space conscious. What began as an attempt to make something I could not find in the market eventually amounted to me learning how to operate woodworking tools and CNC machines. My first woodworking project was actually a sofa for my apartment after taking a woodworking safety class and spending a few days researching and sourcing materials. 

The transition to a larger medium definitely has its own learning curve, but it's something that is made a lot easier with modern manufacturing techniques and CNC machines. There are a lot more things to consider in a piece that will occupy a 10ftx10ft space as opposed to a small 3in cup. How structures are supported and how they will look as people move around them creates a different set of design problems. All that said, I have been really enjoying the challenges of building large structures and am constantly thinking about ways to incorporate the simplicity in my smaller scale designs in my large scale build-outs. 

Creativity is most often associated with the individual, but is there a social dimension to creativity that's particularly relevant in the 21st century. Have you found the need to mesh these two concepts?

I definitely think there is a social dimension to creativity, but I do not think it is one to overshadow one's creative vision. What I mean by this is that I think it is important to stay true to one's creative vision while also keeping in mind the social impact and responses your work will generate. There is a lot of exposure and resources for creatives today through different social streams, and it is important to learn how to handle this information and use it to your advantage. On this point, I do find myself meshing the two concepts to the extent that I capitalize on social streams to draw inspiration for new work. From a product development perspective, I want to produce work that is an addition to someone's home, so it is important to research what would suit the spaces of my target market. I am not sure if this is particular to the 21st century, but I do feel that the technology available today has made this kind of information much more accessible and easy for creatives to learn, grow, and adapt to. 

How do you feed your creative soul?

Honestly, just a stroll through the neighborhood. There are so many hidden gems sprinkled throughout the city landscape are often overlooked because they are lost in the dry suburbs. Neutra's house is right in the heart of Silverlake, for example, and there is a Noguchi garden in the office complex across from South Coast Plaza. I have spent hours reading about some of these works but nothing really compares to moving through the spaces in person. Beyond this, I have always found the characters I cross paths with in the city to be particularly inspiring. Chinatown during lunch hour, for one, has always been my go-to for color inspiration with all the residents in their colorful apparel out shopping in the market. 

"Chinatown during lunch hour has always been my go-to for color inspiration."

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Picasso once said, "Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist." What are some rules you've broken? What are some rules you've stuck to?

I have broken a lot of rules in both my creative and entrepreneurial endeavors. As far as design is concerned, there are a lot of design elements that some might deem staples of the industry which I don't exactly conform to. This is because I try to trim away as much unnecessary frill as possible and focus primarily on the quality and structure of the core product. 

As far as my business is concerned, I do not follow the typical retailer format. I do not wholesale my products and price everything as direct-to-consumer. This is namely because I feel really passionately about pricing transparency and the movement towards direct-to-consumer businesses. Since I began making home furnishings and accessories because I could not find what I wanted at an affordable rate, I wanted to make things affordable and assessable for others as well.

All that said, there are some principles and rules I have always stuck to in both my creative and business pursuits: I have always worked towards the thought that the best design is one where there is nothing left to take away. Whether that means designing shelving units that require no hardware for assembly or a business that is completely vertically integrated, I have always felt passionately about eliminating excess and middleman work to focus on the core of a design or business. 

"The best design is one where there is nothing left to take away."

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What's next for you?

Definitely more large scale sculptural work and installations. I am particularly interested in the interaction between lighting and acrylic and would like to create a large scale build-out to highlight the interaction between the two mediums. The aim here would be to create an interactive experience through lighting castes on acrylic work. Beyond this I am also looking forward to working more with a variety of materials and fabrication methods in future projects such as welding, sewing, and lathe work.

For everyone heading to Create & Cultivate Dallas in January, don't miss Nobel's cacti installations (for inspiration and totally Instagrammable photos) all over the venue! 

8 Reasons You Need a Create & Cultivate Dallas Ticket for Christmas

You may not believe in Santa anymore, but that doesn't mean you can't write a Christmas list. Especially when tickets to Create & Cultivate Dallas are going faster than biscuits and gravy at a potluck (hello, we're gonna be in Texas, y'all).

With keynote speakers Hillary Kerr and Katherine Power, co-founders of Clique Media Group and Emily Schuman of Cupcakes & Cashmere, and new powerhouse ladies being added every week, this is one conference that delivers.

If you haven't quite figured out how to get there, here are our 8 reasons a ticket should at the top of your holiday list .

1. The Networking.

If you know 2016 is going to be your year, don't miss out on the networking opportunities at the conference. You could meet your next business partner, BFF, an investor, and countless women who you admire. 2016 is your year. You just need to ask for a ticket and show up for it. 

2. Everything IS Bigger in Texas.

This is our largest Create & Cultivate to date. With 60 speakers, 400 women, mentor power hours, and more, you'll be buzzing for the rest of the year off the energy generated in Dallas. Big ideas, big speakers, but we do suggest leaving the big hair at home. 

3. One Life Changing Day.

As they say, you only live Beyoncé. This is one day that has the potential to change your whole world. That's a big claim, and we know it, but that's how much we believe in what we're doing and the connections you can make. 

4. You'll Get That Perfect Instagram Shot.

Without giving away too much, we have two words for you: Magical Greenhouse.

5. Did We Mention the Food Is Fantastic?

Whether you want to chow down on a Sprinkles cupcake or experience the nutrient-rich, whole well-being that Sakara Life offers, you're going to be well fed. Plus, if you've never tried Dallas BBQ, you don't the meaning of finger-licking good. 

6. Secret Shopping Spots from BagSnob.

Dallas local and panelist Tina Craig let us in on a few secret shopping spots. Including: Dolly Python, where Tina and a friend from LA scored a full-length blonde mink coat with Neiman Marcus tags for $250. V.O.D. Boutique, a well-curated store from former Dallas Morning News fashion editor Jackie Bolen. And finally, Forty Five Ten, the ultimate one-stop shop for luxury goods (and Tina's favorite!). Network on Saturday, shop on Sunday, work on Monday. 

7. Tips. Tips. Tips. 

If you're on the verge of launching your blog you'll get the best possible tips, from the best people in the business. There's no better way to cultivate success than at our conference. 

8. The GIFT BAG.

Filled with products from brands we love like Mira, Madewell, Framebridge, and more, you'll head home with tools you need to grow your brand and look good while doing it. 

So what's it gonna be? We suggest sharing this post with those who are still wondering on what to get your for the holidays might do the trick. HINT HINT.

(Get your Create & Cultivate Dallas tickets here!)

Katherine Schwarzenegger Is the BFF You've Always Wanted

She's currently working out to Justin Bieber's "The Feeling," but we have seriously good feeling about Katherine Schwarzenegger. Yes, of that family with the unmistakable last name who is making moves in the blog world with her eponymous site. What's also unmistakable is that the USC grad, twice published author is not resting on her laurels. From food and fitness advice to fashion and inspiration, her lifestyle game is strong. 

We chatted with Katherine about giving in to fear, the power in vulnerability, and asking herself: WWBD? What Would Beyoncé Do? Make sure to check her out at Create & Cultivate Dallas this January when she talks about defining your personal brand and voice. 

In your book, “I Just Graduated…Now What?” Honest Answers from Those Who Have Been There,” John Legend is quoted as saying, “It’s not wrong to be afraid.” Why do you think we are so determined to always appear brave and bold?

I think people don't really value fear as much as they should. So much is learned when you're afraid to do something. When somebody graduates college, there's so much pressure from everyone and society to come out of school brave and ready to go into the world with confidence and having a concrete plan. For most people this isn't the case. I felt very unconfident post-college and I felt like those four years were supposed to prepare me for everything I would experience in the real world and the reality was, I felt very under prepared. We should really give people a break and applaud them for being afraid, especially when they're able to express their fear openly. This humanizes us and allows us to know that it's OK to not always have everything together, because that's impossible. At the end of the day this pressure to be brave and bold all the time just puts an unnecessary amount of pressure on everyone to always be perfect and never show their flaws. I have found when I show my flaws, amazing and beautiful things happen and I actually end up learning so much about myself and about life, that should be encouraged more often.

"So much is learned when you're afraid to do something."

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To that point, there is also a degree “putting your best face forward.” When is it OK in life to be vulnerable? 

I don't think there's enough emphasis put on the idea of being vulnerable. Being vulnerable is definitely a really scary thing, you never know what's gonna happen, how people might react, what life will hand you, etc. But it's almost always guaranteed to be a huge learning experience for you. I think most of us wait to be vulnerable when were in a really safe place because that's when it feels most comfortable, but I think we should try to be more real more often. I'm not saying to pour your heart out all the time, but pay attention to your feelings and express them. You don't always have to have it together around your friends and family, and chances are when you decide to let your walls down and be vulnerable, you will be humanized and allow others to also feel their feelings. What I've learned is that when you allow yourself to be vulnerable is when you allow yourself to really feel and then to grow.

What to you do when you don’t have “the answer?” 

The first thing I always try to do when I'm searching for the answer to something is to look at how I feel in my gut. I know a lot of people always say to trust your gut but sometimes it's easier said than done. A lot of times I overthink things so when I need that extra reassurance. I always like to pay attention to how I really feel in a situation and go with that. If that doesn't work, I always ask myself "what would Beyoncé do?"

How can vulnerability be powerful?

I think vulnerability overall is incredibly powerful thing because you're at your most honest with yourself and with those around you. So that right there is a powerful thing. Vulnerability humanizes us and allows our flaws to be exposed and that's a big risk.

"I always ask myself 'what would Beyoncé do?'"

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When has your fear had a positive effect?

Fear can protect you which is a positive thing. If you are in a relationship and you're afraid then you know to get out. Fear can also block you. It can prevent you from doing a lot of great things and really living. So while fear is inevitable, it should hopefully be something you don't allow to control your life.

We’re always asking those older than us for life advice. But what is a memorable piece of advice you received from someone much younger than you?

I get a lot of great advice from people younger than me because I have a big family and at a certain point age doesn't matter – we  all hang out together. I think one of the best pieces of advice that I got from my youngest brother, Christopher, was in reference to a person I was dealing with who wasn't giving me what I wanted or needed in a relationship. I was venting to him (my family is very close) and he said to me that not everyone knows HOW to love and live the way we do. You need to accept people for they are and love them for their great parts, but also love their flaws. Half the time I think he is a prophet because the things he says at his age are insanely brilliant and this talk I had with him was life changing. It helped change the way I look at people and what I am able to expect from them as well. 

You published your first book as a twenty-year-old at USC. Which goes to show that it’s never too early to jumpstart a career-- and many feel like they have to have it figured out before graduating. What would you say to those struggling with college/work balance?

It's normal. Don't think that anyone isn't struggling with the college and work balance because everybody is. I think where we get messed up is when we think we have to have it all figured out. The reality is you never have it all figured out and you are constantly learning for the rest of your life about how to balance. So definitely don't think that you have to have it figured out before or after graduating because even if you think that you do, it will change 1 million times. We all struggle with that balance, but I think the best you can do is do what feels right for you. It's definitely important to be able to work hard and take your career seriously but also to put a huge amount of focus and attention on your friends and your family and things that make you happy. When I was writing my first book, one of the best pieces of advice I received was from my mom – she said that you will work hard and spend time on your career but at the end of the day your job won't be holding your hand or wiping tears or helping you up, that comes from relationships, whatever kind that might be. So put focus on your career but also on your friends, family and partner. 

What are some small, daily ways we can use our voices for positive change? 

The smallest and easiest way we can actually make a big change every day is simply by treating people with kindness. You would be surprised how different your life could be and the lives of people you interact with could be if we could just be kind to one another. Life is hard, people are struggling and hurting, so just by being kinder to others you will make yourself happier and change the course of another persons day. 

What’s one small change you’ve made that’s had a huge impact on your life and career?

Definitely cutting out the negativity has had an overall huge impact on my life and career. Your '20s are for learning all the messy things: how you want to live your life, what kind of people you want around you, what's important to you as an adult, etc.. When I made the decision to remove a lot of the negativity in my life-- whether that was people or situations, everything improved so much. It's a hard thing to do but it's the best thing that you can do. 

Another big change that I made in my life was to try to remove all judgment. I think we judge people's decisions so much and we don't pay attention to our own life. We criticize and judge people's every move instead of just letting people do what they want-- it begins to consume our lives. The moment you let people do what they want and choose to love them instead of judging them you will be a freer and happier person. 

What’s your go-to outfit? The one you’d throw on every day if you could get away with it?

Probably black skinny jeans, black ballet flats, and a black t-shirt. That's my easiest go to outfit that requires zero thinking. I make sure to have my favorite pieces of jewelry on 24/7 so it makes the outfit look more put together even if I just throw it on. I never take off my jewelry so that always helps with basic easy outfits like this one.

Best piece of advice you’ve received from your mom? 

That's a tough one because she gives me so much great advice. One that I can think of off the top of my head would be the importance of a handwritten thank you note. I used to hate doing it when I was younger but I now write all my notes on stationary. It’s timeless. I would say the biggest peace of advice my mom taught me that changed the way I view people and interact with people is the importance of treating everyone with kindness because you never know what someone's life is like at home. Whenever someone is rude or mean for no reason, have compassion for them and give them a smile because you don't know what they are going through. They could have a dying parent, a sick child, a bad marriage, recently let go a work, heartbroken, etc. Life is HARD, we are all human and we struggle, so if someone behaves badly to you for no reason or doesn't treat you kindly, know it probably isn't about you and about something worse that is causing them pain. Have compassion always and send love.

A woman you admire:

My mother (and Beyoncé).

If you could tell your generation one thing it would be:

Change is a good thing. A lot of people in generations older than ours look at the fact that we change passions, change careers, change locations etc as unstable and I think we should look at it as exciting and a good thing in life. Our generation can have several different jobs by the time they are 30 and that's okay. I think it gives us the chance to try a lot of things and hopefully find what we are passionate about and be able to have a career around that. It can be discouraging as well and hard to get the acceptance of other generations but just do you, it's all a process that will hopefully lead to a bigger and better version of who you are. 

Fashion With Function: How Mira Is Changing That Wearable Tech Game

Mira, Mira, on your wrist. It's the fitness bracelet embraced by bloggers like Sincerely Jules that can be easily worn with other stackable bracelets, or solo. If you're confused, you're not the only one. Only recently has the intersection of fashion and fitness hit its stride. Think: Adidas Originals, Alo Yoga Wear, and Mira-- a game-changing fitness tracker and bracelet. 

Gone are the days of rubber bracelets that merely track your steps or your heart rate. Everyone wants a Mira. So we checked in with Melissa Dowell, Mira's Events Marketing Operations Associate to chat all aspects of Mira's healthy and fashionable world. 

The Mira lifestyle is much more than simply wearing a fitness bracelet. How do you translate this image of a complete life to your customers? 

Content is a big part of how we translate this complete wellness picture to customers. Our app content puts your daily activity into everyday terms. For example, we show you how many calories you burned while taking the stairs at work and how many steps in takes to work off that glass of wine. We track your dance moves while you’re boogieing at a wedding. Our stylish bracelet is versatile and flexible so it fits your personal style. Users are more likely to wear it and get a clearer picture of their data because they can wear it to the office, date night and everywhere in between. Finally, we’re also inspired by images of strong, empowered women who are taking care of business, family and other obligations. We try to show women in real life through our brand, not just the time where she might be at the gym. We like to show women how Mira can fit into all aspects of her world. 

Prior to working with Mira did you think the intersection of jewelry and fitness bracelet was possible?

What I loved about discovering Mira was that it was not only something beautiful I would wear, but it also put my health and wellness in perspective. Previously, I had seen fitness trackers as one thing: a rubber band that tracks your steps. It seemed like a fad that would come and go and I never really understood what tracking my steps could tell me about my health. Because I love wearing the bracelet, I’m able to really see how active I am throughout the week and that’s been a game-changer.

How do you feel about goal-setting? In both your personal and professional life? And as a Mira user? 

Personally, I’m someone who is far more interested the journey than the goal. I aim to be present and authentic, staying open to the experiences life has for me. In my professional life, I like to keep an open mind to the opportunities in front of  me. The same goes for me as a Mira user. I aim to stay aware of my journey so I’m motivated to make good choices, and do the activities that I enjoy.

How important do you find the “community” aspect of the Mira lifestyle? 

Like anything worth achieving, living a healthy lifestyle is not something most people can achieve alone. Who can understand you better than another woman who shares similar goals, passions and challenges?  As we expand our product offering, building a Mira community is going to be essential to helping women achieve their goals. We’re looking at ways that we can connect like-minded women that share similar goals through our app and through the brand experience. Health and fitness become instantly more manageable when you have someone with you on the journey helping you make healthy choices.  

How have you seen the wearable tech industry change? What’s next?

There is an attention to detail that wasn’t there before. Fashion and function are no longer mutually exclusive! We are going to continue to see more innovation both with the technology and with the fashion offerings in the market. We’re excited to be a part of what’s coming next.

How have you seen social media affect and grow the brand?

Social media has been key to building brand awareness.  Getting women who share our passion for style and health has been key to driving engagement and excitement about our brand. Social media has also been a great way to get the word out about our pop-up events around the country.

What Mira bracelet do you wear? How have you seen it affect your lifestyle?

I just got my hands on our new Rosé All Day bracelet which I’ve been swooning over since I first saw the prototype! I definitely pay closer attention to what my personal style really is and it’s been a lot of fun discovering what I like to wear. I’ve definitely put myself out there more to try new things. I love how Mira encourages you to look and feel your best. That gives me the confidence to try clothes and trends I never thought I could wear.

Mira is prepping for multiple pop-up events over the next few months. What is the benefit of an online company hosting these events and meeting face-to-face with customers?

Because we’re a startup, getting that immediate feedback from customers is invaluable. We get to learn right away what our customers value in a fitness tracker so we can better tailor our product to meet their needs. Also, it gives us a chance to present our brand in an authentic way--as a team of mostly women, we can relate to the unique challenges that our customers face when we’re able to meet them in person.

"Step back and look at the bigger picture."

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We love that Mira offers the “try before you buy” feature. How do you think this option affects customers who are worried they won’t like or use a fitness bracelet? 

It’s great because customers can see how well Mira fits in with the pieces that are already in their jewelry box. There are a lot of wearable options out there and our “try before you buy” option tells customers that we are committed to offering a product that fits into her life. Plus, it gives you a chance to interact with our awesome  app and see just how much activity you’re already doing but were never able to capture. 

What’s the most surprising thing you’ve noticed since “tracking” with Mira? 

I noticed I can easily sit and work for hours without getting up. I get so consumed in what I’m doing that I tend to go long periods with no activity. It’s great to be aware of that now so I can get up and go for a walk to get my blood pumping again. I find it helps me stay on top of my game throughout the day too. 

Daily tip that keeps you motivated?

Step back and look at the bigger picture. How can you make your next choice a healthy one?

Melissa Dowell is Mira's Events Marketing Operations Associate. Make sure to chat with Melissa at Create & Cultivate Dallas and she gives all the deets on how Mira is changing the wearable tech game. 

Tina Craig Reveals How She Turned a Blog into a Business

Tina Craig of Bag Snob.

Starting your own business is a little like raising a human. The hours required are endless and you never stop working. Or thinking about working. Or dreaming about work. So if you're going to turn a hobby into a business, it better be something you love. Something that Tina Craig and partner Kelly Cook of Snob Essentials (formerly Bag Snob) know plenty about. 

In 2005, the site began when the then stay-at-home moms were sharing their love of bags via a Moveable Type account. This was before the ubiquitous presence of social media. Before there were models for affiliate partnerships.  They were Internet pioneers dreaming of Birkins-- and it paid off. 

Originally Bag Snob featured on-point and honest reviews that readers came to trust. Over the last ten years, the site has grown exponentially, incorporating seven different Snob categories including: beauty, fashion, and even "Tot Snob." The duo also launched their own line, Snob Essentials in May of 2014, which sells through their e-commerce platform and HSN. 

Today with revenue reported in the seven-figure range, it's clear Tina and Kelly have hit their stride, and managed to get their hands on a couple of Birkins in the process. 

We caught up with Tina to chat bags (obviously), blogging, and her best piece of #snobwisdom. Be sure to catch Tina on her home turf at #CreateCultivateDallas this January! 

You’ve been at this since 2005. Which means, you're officially double-digits and turned a blog into a booming e-commerce affiliate marketing business. How have you seen the industry change for the better? For worse? 

I think change is always good, and it’s also a necessity. On the upside, the shift and consequent growth has created an entire industry of multi-media platforms from where individuals are able to share their opinions with the world. 

Where do you see it heading? 

I think true experts will emerge as important curators to help edit the constant influx of material absorbed (and in most cases, not quite absorbed) by our increasingly overloaded generation, as well as help mitigate the habit of over-sharing that comes with the prevalence of social media. 

What have you learned about being a non-snob “Snob” in the fashion industry? 

Being nice is easier and less time-consuming than being rude. Also, treat everyone the same. It’s the right thing to do, you don't know what hardships or battles people are going through-- a kind word or gesture can change and brighten someone's day. Plus you never know when the person sitting next to you will turn out to be the CEO of a multi-billion dollar company. (This has happened to me more times than I can count.) Lastly, helping others just feels good. 

When you first started, social media platforms like Instagram weren’t a thing. How have they changed your relationship to your work? 

Platforms like Instagram have not only allowed for a closer connection to our readers but a direct dialogue with brands. I met one of my (now) IRL besties, Aliza Licht, who’s also known as DKNY PR Girl, from Twitter. She saw a scathingly negative review I wrote on a Donna Karan bag and challenged me on it via a tweet. I respected her forthrightness and began tweeting with her regularly. Our tweets became well-known and attracted a bevy of other friends we called the Twitterazzi (our Twitter squad includes Erika Bearman, a.k.a. Oscar PR Girl). Our relationship blossomed and we (Kelly and I) subsequently designed a capsule bag collection for DKNY, the first of its kind between a major brand and a blogger. 

"Achieving your dreams doesn't mean it's time to relax."

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Do you think it’s possible to enter and be successful in the blogging world at this point?  Especially for fashion bloggers who don’t have a “snob” budget?

Absolutely! We started Bagsnob.com with $20 and our love of bags. There is always more room for new and unique voices in any industry. 

If your favorite bag could talk, it would say? 

Pay more attention to ME! You have too many bags. 

Your best piece of #snobwisdom? 

Never give up, and don’t be afraid of change. I am the most persistent person, I will try and try again and rarely give up. Even if I don't achieve a certain goal, I always feel I have succeeded as long as I learned something along the way.    

What does “It’s in the bag” mean to you now that you’ve established your brand? 

It means I now have to work twice as hard! Achieving your dreams is one thing and as satisfying as it is, once accomplished, it doesn’t mean it’s time to relax. Maintaining your dreams is another issue entirely, and that’s what true success is all about: Working hard, enjoying success, and never sitting back and declaring yourself “done” is what it’s all about. 

For everyone coming to Dallas for Create & Cultivate, what are some secret must-shop spots you are willing to give up? 

Dolly Python! My friend from LA scored a full-length blonde mink coat with Neiman Marcus tags for $250 from this vintage boutique. Also, VOD, which is a supremely well-curated store from former Dallas Morning News fashion editor Jackie Bolen. And finally, 4510, the ultimate one-stop shop for luxury goods (and my favorite!).

That Good Good with Sakara Life

                                                      The Founders of Sakara Life

One of the secrets of success is to consistently pursue your goals. Even when you think you've achieved them, keep going. But juggling a full schedule and your dreams is impossible without the proper fuel. Brain food. Body food. Overall nutrient-dense, well-being food, that doesn't scrimp on taste (or count calories!). Which is where Sakara, a ready-to-eat wellness delivery program, comes into the picture. 

Focus in on Whitney Tingle and Danielle Duboise in a Brooklyn kitchen in 2013. That's when  they dropped everything to give their all to Sakara and the idea of a nutrient-based lifestyle program. Their first deliveries were made via bicycle and the two quickly attracted clientele like Gwyneth Paltrow, Lena Dunham, and a group of Victoria Secret models like Lily Aldridge and Erin Heatherton-- all of whom we would equally classify as #goals.  These are women who work hard for what they have, and make their food work for them, which is what Sakara is all about. 

We chatted with the founders about going for it, feeling sexy, and that tricky little b word we spend so much time thinking about: body. 

You've created such an amazing service for busy individuals. What do you feel sets Sakara apart from other food delivery services?

Whitney: We are not just a food delivery system - we are a nutritionally designed lifestyle program that heals the body on a cellular level. We like to say we’re like a personal chef and nutritionist, rolled into one sexy package. But beyond the quality of food and nutritional integrity of the program, we really, truly aren’t just food. We are a lifestyle. Yes, we’re delivering you breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but we’re also reminding you to slow down and smell, feel, taste, and thoroughly CHEW your food. We’re teaching you about the health benefits of goji berries, asking you to pair your meal with a powerful mantra for the rest of your day, and reminding you to love yourself. 

Danielle: We also refuse to sacrifice taste or gourmet quality for health – because we know you don’t have to. We work with chefs from top restaurants around the world, like Le Bernadin and Jean Georges, to come up with unique, inspired meals that are outrageously delicious in addition to being good for you. Our philosophy is that food should make you feel sexy—eating clean should be fun!

How did you master the logistics of delivery?

W: It’s not easy! But it was a really important part of the business for us. We wanted to make this way of eating as easy as possible, so we had to deliver everything straight to our clients’ doors, ready to eat. We’re constantly working to improve our delivery process to make Sakara the best possible experience for our clients. After mastering meal delivery in New York & LA, our next challenge was figuring out how to ship our meals nationwide – which is coming soon! 

What do you wish you had known in the beginning?

W: That when kale and salt combine they can create quite a sulfur stink bomb! That sulfur is so good for your body (it aids in detoxing), but most people are not fans of that smell. We love stinky kale though! 

D: That’s a tough one because everything we’ve been through has been such an amazing learning lesson, I can’t imagine not experiencing it. I guess just to reassure myself constantly not to be afraid. To take the leap, hire on the expensive people, move into the big space, etc. Put it out there, connect to a bigger mission, make space for success, and work your butt off to get there.

"Put it out there, connect to a bigger mission."

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Your business has rapidly expanded across the US. How do you keep up with all the different locations and employees?

D: Communication is key! Every week we have a meeting at our New York City headquarters, and both our Brooklyn-based kitchen team and our LA office call in and participate. It’s a great opportunity to check in and make sure we’re all on the same page and headed in the right direction.

W: We also make a point of spending in person time at all locations, with all employees. As we grow, it’s important that everyone is connected to the mission of Sakara – that’s what fuels this beautiful fire!

What advice would you give busy females who are struggling with finding the time to eat healthy?

D: Well, this is the whole reason we started Sakara—to make it easy for busy women (and men!) who want to be healthier but can’t find the time. It’s so important to make your health a priority and take care of yourself, not only for your waist line, but also for your relationships, career, etc. We talk a lot about optimizing your day by outsourcing things to experts, so that you can focus on the things you excel in and the things you love to do. Whether it’s laundry, cleaning, workout plans, or meal delivery, let people take care of you, so that you can take care of everything else, and still feel great.

W: Aside from a Sakara meal delivery program, which makes it super easy to eat healthy all day long, it’s really important to keep your pantry stocked with healthy foods – because that’s what you’re going to reach for. We’ve struggled a lot in finding high quality, fresh whole food pantry items and snacks, which is why we’ve created our own! All of the deliciousness will be launched very soon in our Clean Boutique!

We love your mantra of "food should make you feel sexy"! What are your go-to meals or personal favorites?

D:  Foods that are messy, juicy, flavorful, and I can eat with my hands. Anything from our Indian Spices Samosas to our new Cardamom & Chocolate Cookies.

W: Our Youth & Beauty Salad is one of my favorite meals in the world. But, I also feel pretty sexy eating some French fries in my dress and heels.

What has been your proudest moment with the business?

W:  I’ll never forget the first time a client told me her Sakara story. It was at our first S-Life event and this beautiful, commanding, vibrant woman was explaining to me how she had been diagnosed with Lupus years ago and had been seeing countless doctors and taking countless medications ever since and nothing was working. Her life had spiraled completely out of control until she stumbled upon Sakara (this was back in the early stages of Sakara, so we like to think the universe brought her to us). After 2 months of Sakara she was completely off her meds, full of energy, kicking butt at the job she almost lost, head over heels in love, and finally feeling like herself again. She’s still a client today. We get stories from clients like this everyday and Danielle and I spend some together reading them each day to help ground us and bring us back to why we’re doing this.

D: It’s hard to say! Moving into our own beautiful space in Soho…becoming bicoastal…growing our business to support over 60 brilliant employees who believe in Sakara.

What is next for Sakara?

D: We just launched our meal delivery program in Miami, which has been on our list for so long! Now, we’re gearing up to unveil our revamped Clean Boutique, which has everything to help our clients live clean, have fun, and feel sexy while doing it (everything from dark chocolate to vegetable chips to our rose water cocktail mixer). Stay tuned, because there’s more super-exciting news coming soon!

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GIVEAWAY.

Guys! We are so excited to team up with Sakara Life and are giving away of week of their meals to a busy entrepreneur (like yourself!). Enter to win by filling out the form below. (Note this giveaway is only open to residents of New York City, Southern California, Greater Boston, Washington D.C, Philly and select NY, NJ, and CT counties.) Giveaway ends 11/27/15! 

#CreateCultivateDallas: First Gift Bag Sneak Peek

Tote bag by Shabby Chic

We are gearing up for Create & Cultivate Dallas. Part of that process is assembling gift bags that make up for the not-so-stellar holiday presents you received from relatives. (Hey, it happens.)

The gift bags introduce you to new companies, and make you fall head over heels with brands you already love. 

From custom framing and calligraphy services to the best of fashion and beauty products to services you need to build your brand, here is a sneak peek at the companies you can expect to find:

Shabby Chic

Fossil

Mira

Madewell

Kopari Beauty

U Brands

Margaret Madeleine Calligraphy

Leah Alexandra

The Seaweed Bath Co. 

City Seat

Organic Bath Co. 

Trust Fund Beauty

Framebridge

RFLKT Eyewear

Vaseline 

Sprinkles 

Meri Meri

VNYL

Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture

+ many more!

It's a gift bag the size of the Lone Star state itself. Which is rather fitting because we cannot wait until you join us Dallas! Tickets are on sale now for January 30, 2016.