Meet the Boss of the Floral Business: Bess Wyrick of Celadon and Celery
She makes it look easy, but it's not.
Serial entrepreneur Bess Wyrick is not only our MF BOSS Senior Event Producer at Create & Cultivate, she also runs Celadon & Celery Events, her fourth business venture which has been successful and profitable since 2008. This doesn't come as a surprise to us at C & C (did you see the florals and stages in Dallas?). Bess' work ethic is imbued with a Millennial spirit, the kind that's convinced it's possible to be an effective part of something bigger. The kind that believes we can create our own change and be disruptive in our own niches. So that's what she's done-- created the change herself (and it's blooming beautiful).
Basically for Bess, the world is her Oleander.
Tell us a little bit about your background, and how you found yourself in the floral and events business.
During college I spent some time working on the catering side of events and always loved when the events we worked on had the budgets to hire florists. I thought they were magicians! So after college I spent some time freelancing as a florist with a slew of the best San Francisco Event Designers. I started out on the production floral side which meant early morning flower market runs, long hours of processing flowers, cleaning buckets and vases, cleaning out the cooler, and then sweeping. My god I was always sweeping since florists make a huge mess. It didn't take long before I was picking up all the insider tricks. Before long I was designing weekly flowers accounts, working on weddings, and being hired as a freelance designer.
Plants, nature, soil it all made sense to me and working with it every day was second nature at that point.
What has been the biggest discovery you’ve made about yourself as a small-business owner?
You have to have more than passion to keep you motivated and driven. I have found that the crew you hire is the key to success. I am only as good as the team around me and I am better with a team that works independently, creatively, and passionately. As a creative I am always finding new ways to encourage and inspire my team to work harder but smarter. Luckily we are surrounded by beauty all the time so I have to remind them to not take advantage of it!
"Work harder but smarter."
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What was your biggest fear in launching your own business?
Running out of MONEY! This is my third business and unlike my last two I was launching without a business partner, in a new city, and I was still green! It was 2008 and I had just landed in NYC before the economy tanked and before too long my job, housing, and the life I had built was pulled out from under me. So I took my skill set, got a part time retail flower job and started hustling. I also took a studio in the NYC flower market where I converted it into a live/work loft and started to make the dream happen.
I never ran out of money because I did three things that I think were critical to my success:
1. Freelance, if I did not have my own gig, I was working for someone else.
2. I lived and breathed flowers, marketing, networking. I was ruthless when it came to promoting myself and the brand I was building.
3. I was the first company to ever offer Flower Workshops on sites like Groupon and Living Social. They were a huge success and sold out every time I did an offer. They became so huge I started doing them in other markets: LA, Miami, Dallas.
By year two I was already becoming a nationwide brand name that people recognized. While that type of marketing had its downfalls it propelled the business to get through the years where wedding and event budgets were scare.
People see pretty. But behind the scenes is a lot of tough work and labor. What are some other elements people would find surprising about event and floral production?
I started my business on the ethos of buying only local flowers, which means grown and shipped in the US only. In 2007 this was a very hard thing to do and meant I had to find these farmers myself. I would spend hours and days driving around to meet farmers and understand what they grew and what their capabilities were. It set my business apart in NY since the market was used to importing from Holland or Asia. Having spent four years of my life as a marijuana farmer I knew how important it was to find flower farmers who took the time to grow seasonal and sustainably. It is what my brand is all about!
In addition, the physical labor that goes into creating flowers for events is hard on the body, very time consuming, and tedious. Florists work long hours, in extreme conditions and it is a constant balance of heavy lifting and stretching to reach large installations. But it's a high to work long days and then step back and see the beauty you've created. I am addicted to that feeling; it is why I keep at it.
There’s a time frame when you’re working with flowers that’s a little… scary. How do you make sure things happen in crunch time?
Ahh, yes this is a secret language between the flowers, the environment, and the style of the event. The way flowers look at an event are leaps and bounds above how they look when I receive them. Most people would be surprised to know that I often get flowers five days before an event so I can work on changing their shape, opening them up, or allowing them to bloom so they are at their peak on event day. I am not a nervous person so this process is more like a dance between me and the flowers.
During Create & Cultivate Dallas I got all the soft flowers on Tuesday (ed note: the event was on Saturday) and spent the time to process them, heat them up so they would open, then stabilize them in a cooler when they were perfect. It is an art but comes with all those years I worked production and stuck it out in rooms with heaters and trucks with coolers!
What are the long term goals for Celedon and Celery?
The beauty about being in the event world is that you can be as transformative as a space. CC has become a resource to so many other florists on large floral build outs, destinations flower planning, and sourcing flowers in regions. I continue to see it be a design house that consults with agency on larger activations, and brand ideation. We are more than florists here at CC and that is why it has been so successful in so many markets. We are creatives, designers, producers, and most of all collaborators, and I hope to see it become a staple platform for future visual artists to come.
Up In the Air: 3 Ways Boss Women Fly Hydrated
It's 10pm and you're in the airport lounge waiting to board a redeye for your business trip across the country. It's a flight path all too familiar to you-- after all, the hustle can sleep on a plane. Why not make moves across the country to make moves with your career the next day? You say it's time well-managed.
However, it can ravage your body. The mixture of recycled plane air, low humidity environments, and the moisture zapping tendency of winter, can leave you with dry skin, itchy eyes, and you're even more prone to catch a virus. So, what's a boss to do?
Drink Water
This may seem obvious, but for anyone on-the-go a drink and a movie sounds much more appealing (especially on a redeye) than a bottle of water. But make a point to buy a big one before you get on your flight, and make sure you finish it by the time you land.
Flyers tend to nix big bottles of water to avoid annoying their aisle mates by heading to the bathroom every hour, but lack of water and sleeping on a plane make for the perfect recipe for fatigue. Which, IS THE LAST thing you need when you're trying to nail down and impress an investor.
Have trouble remembering? Make it a game and take a sip every time the stewardess turns on the seatbelt sign.
Take Emergen-C or Airborne
It's not in your head that you always get sick on a plane. The air inside the cabin of a plane usually has a humidity level of 10 to 20 percent, which is much lower than typical indoor humidity of 30 to 65 percent. This low humidity level actually affects your health. When your airways are moist, the lining traps viruses from entering your body. When they are dry, those germs have a one-way ticket to your body.
Pack an immune booster in your carry-on.
Pack the Right Moisturizer
Dry, itching skin is the worst. So is a dehydrated looking face. You want to look fresh-faced and rested when you step off the plane. Yes to has a new line formulated specifically for dry skin. The Yes to Coconut is a natural collection that combines nourishing moisturizers like coconut oil that's perfect for skin in need of heavy hydration. To wipe away impurities and makeup try the Coconut Cleansing Wipes. The Ultra Hydrating Facial Souffle Moisturizer is non-greasy and super hydrating. And a dab of Ultra Hydrating Overnight Eye Balm says bye bye to dry eyes as you say hello to a new city.
Create & Cultivate Asks: What's Your 2016 Business Resolution?
More cupcakes, and what else?
From Julia Engel to Annie Lawless, we asked some of favorite speakers from our latest Create & Cultivate what they're gonna do bigger, better, and more boss in 2016.
It Takes Two: Business Bestie Outfit Giveaway from Lou & Grey
It takes two to tango, and we want to give you and your business bestie a treat.
Your business bestie. She's there by your side toasting to your promotion. Taking your late night phone calls when your computer crashes. And making you sit on your hands when you are itching to write a scathing email.
Your career wouldn't be what it is without her, and we're toasting to both of you-- for not getting bogged down by competition and for truly having each other's backs. Because when you're climbing that corporate ladder it's nice to turn around and realize that the person you've always relied on is right there next to you. (And looking good.)
Lou & Grey is teaming up with Create & Cultivate to give away TWO outfits: one for you and one for your BBBFF (business best friend forever). All you have to do is follow the below rules.
An Inside Peek at the Fossil x C & C Speaker Dinner
From an ombré tablescape to a killer group selfie, the night before the conference was fire.
To kick of Create & Cultivate Dallas, Fossil hosted an amazing Speaker Dinner at the W Hotel. Everyone from SoulCycle founders Julie Rice and Elizabeth Cutler to Who What Wear's Hillary Kerr showed up ready to mingle and oogle and ahhh the most gorgeous ombre table they'd ever seen. Before sitting, guests were given the option to emboss their Harper Crossbody bag-- something that Katherine Schwarzenegger jumped right on, and everyone went home with Fossil's fashionable activity tracker, Q Dreamer.
Click through to see our favorite moments from the dinner, the tablescape, and a fashion blogger selfie moment for the books.
Take 10 Minutes for a Hairstyle That Will Last 10 Hours
From a hair-don't, to a hair do in under ten minutes.
The last thing the Create & Cultivate staff has time to think about day of the conference is themselves. Which, after a long week of production prep and late nights, can result in some rather hairy, literally, looks. Luckily, Nick Stenson from Matrix was on hand to give us a few tricks, tips, and product helps that can turn any caffeine-fueled-work-weekend-hair into a polished and professional coif. Because while there is no such thing as a 40-hour work week when you're attempting to run the world a la Beyonce, there is a 10-minute hairDO.
Click through to watch Nick work his magic, that's just as doable for you at home. Steps below.
9 Killer Public Speaking Tips from Top Female Entrepreneurs
Get ready to pick up this mic we're about to drop.
Jittery hands, racing heart, blank mind. If you're climbing the career ranks, there is a good chance you've experienced one or all of these emotions when you get up to give a presentation or a talk. There's no escaping it, and the earlier you accept that public speaking is going to be a part of your career, the better. After all, practice makes perfect (or so said Tina Craig of Bag Snob this weekend at Create & Cultivate Dallas).
Whether you're prepping for a pitch meeting or you're planning to one day give a world-changing TED talk, we asked the industry best to give their quick and dirty tips for getting up in front of a crowd or an investor.
ANNIE LAWLESS, NY TIMES BEST SELLER, CO-FOUNDER SUJA, CREATOR BLAWNDE.COM
"Don't filter yourself because everyone can tell. Be authentic-- that will help you be conversational. And don't worry about what you think they want to hear."
DANIELLE DUBOISE, CO-FOUNDER SAKARA LIFE
"Memorize three things you know you want to say. Don't memorize anything else because you'll sound like a robot. And have a code word for yourself. Mine is solar plexus, for when I tap into my power."
SOPHIA RIVKA ROSSI, CO-FOUNDER HELLO GIGGLES
"The key to public speaking is to disassociate, j/k, to connect to what you are expressing, and just remember no one really ever cares more than you do."
JACLYN JOHNSON, FOUNDER CREATE & CULTIVATE
"The worst thing you can do on stage is think about yourself. What matters is the audience. So get out of your head and your inspirational insight will find a way into theirs."
JULIE RICE, CO-FOUNDER SOULCYCLE
"Speak from your heart. Everyone can understand passion...oh yeah and 'takeaways.' Leave people with something actionable."
TINA CRAIG, CO-FOUNDER BAG SNOB
“I talked about the end user, as if she was there.” On “Shirley,” the character she created and used when pitching HSN. Adding, "You do anything enough, and it becomes fun. Practice in your sleep."
HILLARY KERR, CO-FOUNDER WHO WHAT WEAR, CLIQUE MEDIA
"Some people thought we were cream puffs, but we were smart. I like to say it was like being bitten to death by a butterfly." On early fundraising meetings for Who What Wear.
RACHEL ASHWELL, FOUNDER RACHEL ASHWELL SHABBY CHIC
"Be truthful. It's too easy to say what you think sounds good."
ELIZABETH CUTLER, CO-FOUNDER SOULCYCLE
"And concise."
Mic drop, Elizabeth. *claps*
15 of the Most Quotable Moments from Create & Cultivate Dallas
Be inspired. Stay inspired.
There are so many brilliant moments at each Create & Cultivate, it's hard to pick our favorites. So we're rounding up a few that we couldn't not share. Click through to be inspired by the very best.
Press Play: Create & Cultivate Dallas 2016 Asks 'What's Your Business Resolution?'
At Create & Cultivate Dallas we wanted to know about resolutions. Everyone from Annie Lawless to Julia Engel shared what they want to do better and more boss in 2016.
Press Play: Create & Cultivate Dallas 2016
Create & Cultivate is an online platform and conference series for female entrepreneurs in the digital space. On January 30th, 2016 we brought our first show of the year to Dallas, TX! We hosted our keynote speakers Emily Schuman of Cupcakes & Cashmere, Co-founders Hillary Kerr and Katherine Power of Who What Wear, and Co-founders Julie Rice and Elizabeth Cutler of Soulcycle, alongside amazing female entrepreneurs like Julia Engel, Danielle Duboise of Sakara Life, Whitney Wolfe of Bumble, Katherine Schwarzenegger, Haylie Duff, Natalie Suarez of Natalie Off Duty, Christina Caradona of Trop Rouge, and many more!
5 Pieces of Must-Know Advice from C & C Dallas
Yesterday at Create & Cultivate these ladies (and one gent) dropped some serious knowledge.
Snapchat has DJ Khaled and his major keys, but yesterday Dallas had all the keys to creative, entrepreneurial boss success when Create and Cultivate hit Lofty Spaces. The energy was electric. Attendees were on fire with their outfits and questions for panelists. And the speakers, let’s say they knocked the yee out of the haw.
Here are five MAJOR KEY takeaways from yesterday’s Create & Cultivate Dallas.
IT’S ALL ABOUT THE MISSION
We heard this reiterated a couple of different ways yesterday, but there's not doubt that buzzword of the day was MISSION. Everyone from the Soul Cycle co-founders to Stephanie Mark of The Coveteur made it clear: the goal SHOULD NEVER BE FOLLOWERS OR MONEY. You start with an idea you believe in and make that carry your business and fuel those late nights.
"Trying to get 500k on Instagram is not a goal or a business plan."
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Soul Cycle co-founders Julie Rice and Elizabeth Cutler told the crowd that their mission has always been simple: "to put joy and empowerment into their business."
Sakara Life co-founder Danielle DuBoise encouraged the audience to make sure that their work “is a mission driven business, because it will change your trajectory.” Adding, “When times get tough, you can make it so it’s not about you. Stay true to your mission because that is what will carry you through.”
WHEN PUSH COMES TO SHOVE, JUST WORK B.
What we see on stage is pretty and inspiring, but is also the result of late, wee-morning work hours, tears of exhaustion, missteps, hustling two jobs to fuel to the passion project, and even moving back in with mom and dad.
At the end of day what everyone on these stages has is a propensity to work, work, work— something they reiterated to attendees time and again.
From Annie Lawless telling the crowd: “Any entrepreneur will tell you, you are always working, but for you it’s not a job, it’s a dream.”
To Emily Schuman explaining to a captivated audience: “Have patience. I’m sitting up here talking about all of these things I’ve done, but it’s taken a really long time. Have determination and patience and believe in yourself.”
On her early days of self-taught Photoshop Katherine Power told the crowd: “You just have to get it done.”
Kendi from Kendi Everyday said something rather similar: “You just have to decide to do it. And then do it.”
IT’S QUALITY AND QUANTITY
There is something to be said that “done is better than perfect”— which, is an adage we heard a couple of times from the stages yesterday. But when the world is watching you need to be on your A-game. Matt Crump of #candyminimal fame explained to the crowd the importance of delivering on both quality and quantity if you want to grow your following.
“I was working two jobs,” he said, “and moved back in with my parents. But I would make sure that what I was putting out was thoughtful and consistent. If it’s your passion, you make it great, and you make it work.”
Tina Craig of Bag Snob also made clear that in addition you need to know all sides of what you’re doing.“If you want to get in the business,” she said, “get in the back end of the business. Not just the fun. Not just the selfies.”
In the age of social platforms you have to consistently pump out content, but it needs to be solid.
A BAD RELATIONSHIP CAN RUIN YOUR WORK SPIRIT
We heard this sentiment repeated three times and we think it’s worth repeating here.
First, Whitney Wolfe CEO and Founder of dating-app Bumble asked the crowd to consider what a bad relationship has the ability to do. “If you’re in a bad relationship,” she said, “it can destroy your life.”
On a lighter (but also totally serious note), Soul Cycle CEO Elizabeth Cutler told everyone, “No deadbeat boyfriends for anyone who works for us.”
This also applies to work relationships. Hillary Kerr and Katherine Power are coming up on their ten year workaverssary and told attendees, “WE obviously have a friendship but it’s business first and foremost. You have to be respectful.”
THERE’S NEVER THE RIGHT TIME
Waiting for the perfect day to come along to take a risk? Not gonna happen.
When Danielle DuBoise and Whitney Tingle (who just made Forbes 30 Under 30) started Sakara Life they had a combined 700 dollars. Annie Lawless (also on Forbes' coveted list), who dropped out of law school and started delivering juice around San Diego in her 2-door coup, had less than that. If you’re waiting for lightning to strike, the stars to align, or enough money in the bank, there’s a good chance you’re going to miss your shot. There is someone right now taking that risk.
Tze Chun of Uprise Art told the crowd: “When you’re starting a company just saying it’s real, makes it real.”
Whitney Wolfe said, “There are so many days when it’s terrible. But if there is one good relationship taking place out there, it’s all worth it.”
And Soul Cycle boss Julie Rice put it clear as day: “Whatever you’re doing now, I actually only think there is one skill you need, and that’s making shit happen.”
Get ready for our announcement on Feb 15th about the next Create & Cultivate. Sign up for our newsletter to be the first to hear where we are heading next!!
8 Insider Moments at Create & Cultivate Dallas Speaker Dinner
Shhh. We're giving you the inside scoop.
Create & Cultivate Dallas is officially here. We can't believe it either. And while attendees were busy mixing and mingling at Common Desk Happy Hour, Fossil hosted a ombre tabled Speaker Dinner at the W, where drinks were had, old friends mingled, new friends met, and a snapchat maven gave a few rookies a schooling in the app. Here are a few of our favorite moments from the night's festivities.
1. To start the night, self-professed elevator- phobic Julie Rice of Soul Cycle fame, kicked off her heels and hiked 33 flights up to dinner. Which, is badass and equals buns of steel no matter how you spin it. (S. Cycle puns, you get it.)
2. Create & Cultivate Founder Jaclyn Johnson giving everyone a warm welcome to Dallas. "This is our biggest event yet, and this room couldn't be filled with more talent," she told the room. Creative truth bomb.
3. Katie Rodgers of Paper Fashion busting out the Sharpie and drawing at dinner for Claudia Naim Burt of The Boss Aesthetic. Because you can't have a blogger event without at least one sharp-doodling blogger. Check out her illustration here.
4. Tina Craig of Bag Snob and Hillary Kerr of Clique Media giggling by the bar and lighting their Snapchat story on their own. Because who needs a lighting crew?
5. Betches Aleen Kuperman and Jordana Abraham getting caught taking selfies at dinner and giving no bones about it. Naturally.
6. Haylie Duff and Katherine Schwarzenegger cozying up like old besties.
7. Emily Schumann, self-professed technology genius putting her money where her mouth was, by teaching Haylie Duff all about snapping. "It's cute when I use the slow filter on my daughter," she said-- to which, everyone cooed. Because it's cute as hell. And as of tonight, Haylie Duff has a Snapchat.
8. Tina Craig admitting that earlier in the day she chopped off her own hair in her hotel room. For real. The Bag Snob took a pair of Japanese scissors and snipped off more than an inch.
Cultivating Collaborations: Fossil x Opening Ceremony
See how Carol Lim and Humberto Leon (the creative brains behind the Opening Ceremony) give Fossil exclusive look into their world and get an exclusive sneak peek behind their capsule collection.
Some of the best ideas and work are born out of amazing collaborations. That is why we’re so excited for the Fossil x Opening Ceremony capsule collection.
Brimming with color and curiosity, the limited-edition line for men and women blends the best of both brands—midcentury nostalgia, high fashion, and international art—to deliver truly one-of-a-kind creations. With statement-making watches, quirky reversible bags, and whimsical accessories where the delight is in the (furry) details, the Fossil x OC Collection is definitely makings its way in our #OOTD’s this season and beyond.
When Fossil sat down with Carol Lim and Humberto Leon (the creative brains behind the OC brand), they got an exclusive look into their world, heard about their first Fossil memory, and celebrated the worldwide launch (along with a sneak peek of which pieces they’re calling “dibs” on.) You can shop the entire collection here.
Q: What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Fossil?
A: When we think of Fossil, we fondly remember our first Fossil experiences: buying a timepiece or leather good that we wore so proudly when we were teenagers.
Q: Describe Fossil x Opening Ceremony in three words.
A: Unexpected, modernist, innovative
Q: Who is the Fossil x Opening Ceremony girl/guy? Who do you see wearing the collection?
A: The Fossil x Opening Ceremony girl and guy are culturally curious individuals who appreciate unexpected designs. The collection has a universal appeal, as it features styles that are youthful and refreshing as well as classic and beautiful—there's something for everyone.
Q: Tell us about the process of designing this collection in partnership with Fossil. What were the highlights?
A: It's always fun for us to work with new partners who think differently and yet respect Opening Ceremony's point of view. For us, the highlight of any collaboration is always when we create objects we want for ourselves, and that's very true in this case.
Q: We love how versatile the bags and cuff watches are, as well as the quirky details of the Sloth pouch and furry tails. Where did your inspiration come from?
A: Both Humberto and I have spent a lot of time traveling to exciting places in search of interesting, cutting-edge fashion and design, and inevitably, we've always been drawn to beautiful objects for the home. We decided that our collection would be inspired by our ideal of a dream home and all the souvenirs we’d collect and display in this home: from midcentury modern decor to a menagerie of animals masks, rugs, and prints.
Q: Why the (adorable) sloth?
A: When we were designing the accessories, we came up with a number of jungle and rainforest creatures we wanted to bring to life in a very integrated way. One of the designs we thought worked well as a bag was the sloth because of the way they hung off branches with their long arms. Plus, they have such cute faces!
Q: What piece do you most covet from the Fossil x Opening Ceremony capsule collection?
A: We really love the cuff—it's so chic!
Q: You, like us, love color. Which hue(s) do you like designing with the most?
A: We always appreciate a neutral, earthy palette with an unexpected pop of bright color (here, neon yellow).
Q: How does this #FossilxOC collab tie into your ready-to-wear collection?
A: The collaboration ties effortlessly with our ready-to-wear collection, which expanded on the theme of a dream home. In fact, the watches were featured our runway show last September.
Q: What’s next for Opening Ceremony?
A: We have a ton of interesting projects coming up that we're excited to share with you all soon. We're also looking forward to our next collaboration with Fossil!
Keeping It Real: Talking Authenticity with Haylie Duff of The Real Girl's Kitchen
Haylie's rule of thumb: be yourself. Everyone can spot out the fakers.
Haylie Duff is not just another face that you remember from the silver screen.
After Haylie began making the transition from the traditional world to producing online content, one key that she made sure to always hold was authenticity and always being herself. Since 2012, she’s been able to share her true self via her blog The Real Girl's Kitchen, her amazing culinary talent, her family, and has invited her fans to get to know the real her. (It wouldn’t be called The Real Girl’s Kitchen for nothing, now would it?) Today, not only is her blog online, but she also has her own cooking show on the Cooking Channel too. Talk about killing it!
As we’re gearing up for Create & Cultivate Dallas this weekend, we caught up with Haylie to learn more about what keeping it real means to her, how her transition from actress to blogger was like, and how she deals with the busy trap as a mom/blogger. Also, make sure to catch her on panel on Style Vibes: How to define your personal brand, manage transparency, and define your voice this Saturday at #CreateCultivateDallas!
What were some unexpected challenges/surprises transitioning from on stage/in front of a camera to online?
I didn't really find them all that different! Technically you are still "on camera,” even if it is online. The level at which people are producing online content continues to surprise me though! I am constantly impressed and inspired.
You started your career playing other people, but as a blogger you have to play (AKA BE) yourself. Was that transition scary?
I guess it was, yeah. I tried to not give it too much thought. I tried to just be as genuine as possible and just have fun! I feel like if you are having fun, people will tend to want to jump on the bandwagon. Who doesn't like to have a good time, y’know?!
How do you manifest authenticity and get that across to your readers?
This is one of those tricky things. I have been told many times that "I'm exactly the same person IN PERSON as I am on TV,” and this always kinda blows my mind. It is meant to be a compliment, and it's flattering, but I find this funny. How can you be a TV personality (as yourself) and not be yourself? I can only attribute this to all of us watching too much reality television. I can remember my first acting teacher telling me not to watch anything I was in because I would become "aware" of myself. With so many ways to watch ourselves, this seems unavoidable now. But I do believe that viewers can smell the fakers. I really do. They aren't dumb and they don't like to be lied to. Being yourself, flaws and all is always the best approach.
"Viewers can smell the fakers. Being yourself, flaws and all is always the best approach."
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Your favorite moment as female entrepreneur?
Joining the Create & Cultivate crew is certainly a moment I am looking forward to! I love what C&C is doing by connecting so many talented and successful women, and I’m very excited to be included! My favorite female entrepreneur moment happened last year when I filmed the 2nd season of The Real Girl's Kitchen and then a Summer Special for Cooking Channel all while I was very pregnant with my daughter. I felt like I was really killing it!
What kind of example do you hope to set for your daughter?
This is something I think about all the time. I hope to show her that she can be anything she wants. That she can have a career and a happy home life. She can be a mother, have a job that she is proud of, and be a good partner to someone. I hope to show her that her life is always more important than her work. That her girlfriends will be the ones standing there if everything crumbles, so take care of them, and I hope I show her that she needs to be good to her mother in her old age!
What is it about the brand that you think resonates so well with such a wide span of women?
My recipes are simple, that's a big one! We are all juggling jobs, families and social lives...no one has time for 100 ingredients!
What are some ways that you keep it “real?”
I think I keep it "real" by being all about balance. My producing partner calls my food style “healthy decadence,” I really believe that no one can live on a diet all year long, but I fully support a healthy lifestyle and love to eat healthy. So my outlook tends to be make good choices (most of the time), but keep it real by having that naughty pasta or dessert every once in awhile. You only live once.
How do you handle the mom-work balance?
I'm not sure to be honest. I start shooting a new show for Cooking Channel in March, so we’ll see! I’ve been able to stay home with my daughter Ryan quite a bit these last few months and have truly cherished this sweet time. My plan of attack is to be as present as I can with her on my days off, thank my mother 1,000 times a day for helping, and hopefully be home by bath time.
When you’ve had a crazy day, what is your go-to, knock it out of the park recipe?
Chili! I make Turkey chili with veggies all the time. It’s healthy, and so easy to keep in the refrigerator. Can't beat it.
What do you do when you have downtime?
18 months ago, the answer to this question would have been VERY different! Haha! Most of my downtime is spent with my family...or a girls night out for margaritas or a good book.
How many hours of sleep do you need? Do you know what sleep is anymore? Need?
I mean, a whole weekend would be nice! Any mother that has nursed a baby will tell you that you learn to function on very little sleep! Once Ryan started sleeping through the night my whole life changed though! I try to get about eight hours a night. I was never good at the "nap when the baby naps" thing, so I try to go to bed shortly after she does at night.
What’s next? Another book?
I really want to do another cookbook, but next will be my new show with Cooking Channel.
7 Ways to Make the Most of Your Create & Cultivate Break
You come to be inspired, get that know-how, drink some killer cocktails, and make new friends. But the breaks are equally as amazing as the panels.
We can't believe that C & C Dallas is right around the corner. Last week we shared what we'd be bringing in our bag for the day, and today we're detailing how to make the most of the breaks in the day.
You come to be inspired, get that know-how, drink some killer cocktails, and make new friends. But the breaks are equally as amazing as the panels. From getting a makeup touchup to learning how to flat lay, be sure to check out these popups when onsite.
1. Snag an amazing IG moment in front of our big Dallas sign using #CreateCultivateDallas. We regram our favorites.
2. Bar III popup is hosting a Flat Lay Tutorial with Lauryn Evarts of The Skinny Confidential. If you've always wondered how to create this indispensable marketing tool, grab a drink and head over.
3. Stop by the Jergens Bar Rehydration Session with *we can't tell you quite yet,*but it's good, and oh-so-hydrating because you can't survive on coffee and cocktails.
4. There's a ribbon art installation that can't be missed. It's another Instagrammable photo opportunity that we'll be regramming.
5. We've got the exclusive! Who What Wear is giving you a peak at their new line with Target. Check out their lounge and be ready to oogle and aahhh this much awaited collection before it's available to shop at Target January 31st.
6. Look your best the whole day long. There are hair and makeup touch ups in the Beauty Lounge with beGlammed, Matrix, Fromm Beauty.
7. The Vaseline popup will live sketching with Katie Rodgers of Paper Fashion.
And when the day is over, join your fellow attendees for a celebratory cocktail, a snap in the Photo Booth, and grab an amazing gift bag before you head home to put into practice everything you've learned. Only t-minus 8 days 'til the big day!
Mane Attraction: 3 Hairstyles to Rock at the Office
Fromm start to finish, we're solving your case of bed head.
It’s a predicament we find ourselves in too often: hitting snooze once, twice, three times (!!) until we jolt awake with a serious case of bed head. OR, we wake up with too much time and waste a chunk of AM figuring out how to do our hair-- up, down, messy bun; too much time and too many options make for a disastrous morning recipe. And being late for work stopped being cute the day you decided to take over the world.
For those instances, we’ve got your back with three quick and easy hairstyles with the help of our friends at Fromm. These looks will save you some time when you’re trying to beat the clock, but will also land you a few not-so-hairy compliments from your colleagues.
Meet the Austin Boss Lady Who Launched a Very Instagrammable Business
Brittany Pigorini of Birch & Brass had a big idea for your big day.
Brittany Pigorini, the founder of Birch & Brass, a speciality event styling and boutique rental company in Austin, TX, interned in the event department at a magazine during college and "never looked back."
At 20 she went on to manage an events marketing team for Coke. From there, her experience with the soft drink company lead to a career in her hometown of Los Angeles with experiential event production with brands like Nike, Pabst, and Columbia Sportswear. But it was when she relocated to Austin in the midst of planning her own wedding did she notice a hole, and a way to combine her event know-how with her love of vintage.
We caught up with Brittany to learn more about Birch & Brass, thriving on new experiences, and the responsibility of helping someone with their "big day."
Can you tell us a little about your background and the idea for Birch & Brass?
When I relocated to Austin, I was in the process of planning my own wedding. When I wasn't finding the unique pieces I was hoping to integrate into my special day, I decided to source everything myself. I've been an avid vintage hoarder since I was practically in diapers. I'm pretty sure I was the only 5-year-old buying crochet doilies at the flea market with my weekly allowance.
I sourced everything from my brass floral vessels to vintage china and mismatched silverware. I brought in my own lounge furniture, tabletop elements, and everything in-between, but it was more work than I ever imagined, even with an events background. I figured that I couldn't be alone in my desire for eclectic event and wedding rentals, so I decided to open up shop. Birch & Brass truly blends my passion for event production with my vintage obsession.
Were you nervous about starting your own business?
Oddly enough, I wasn't initially nervous to start my own business. I thought I knew what I was doing - even though I absolutely didn't - and ran with it. That's always been my personality type though, as I thrive off of new experiences and changes.
As I realized that there were many aspects of a rental company that I hadn't taken into consideration--- like the fact that I essentially started a glorified moving company, I did grow a bit worrisome. There are many logistics involved that I hadn't taken into consideration, and my Mini Cooper wasn't exactly conducive for delivering sofas.
I knew that I could either reach out to people who had been in my same position, or allow my pride to destroy what I had worked so hard to create. So, I reached out to anyone and everyone with a business that I admired, whether or not it correlated to my own industry directly. I've learned that you can't be afraid to ask for help, and I still reach out to a few mentor types in my industry on a regular basis when I'm not sure of how to proceed.
"You can't be afraid to ask for help."
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You’re in many ways responsible someone’s big day. But taking on the challenge of starting your own business is a big, huge decision. Which do you think is scarier? Planning a wedding or starting your own business?
Hands down, the responsibility of executing a flawless wedding is more scary to me than starting my own business. I don't take it lightly that brides trust me with the most memorable day of their lives, so I do my absolute best to make sure that the product I'm providing them with is exactly what they're envisioning. I believe it's my personal responsibility to ensure anything Birch & Brass creates is unique for each client, and also aesthetically pleasing.
The worst feeling in the world is when I have to reach out to a client and let them know that their favorite white sofa had wine spilled on it a few days before their wedding and it's no longer available. I dread those phone calls, because even though it may not be my personal fault, I never want to disappoint a client. While in the grand scheme of things I do realize that a sofa won't make or break someone's wedding day, I'm a detail-oriented person and I completely understand how a piece of furniture can deeply impact their vision.
Starting my business was the hardest thing I've ever done in my life, but I wouldn't say it was the scariest. I think the dictionary definition of scary should be "an unhappy bride."
When planning a wedding most people overlook:
The importance of a seating chart. Assigning guests to particular seats will spark good conversation at your tables and enable guests who may not know one another to avoid that awkward feeling of inviting themselves to join a stranger's table - and who doesn't love a beautiful place card?
What has been your proudest moment with the business?
While it may not seem like a large feat to some, the first month that we broke a small monthly profit was a few months after we had opened our doors. For some companies, this can take well into their first few years. All of my long workweeks felt validated, and it was a wonderful feeling to know that we were helping clients bring their wedding and events to life through our rentals.
When you get overwhelmed you:
Head to my favorite tea house in town. I work from there often, as a change of scenery can do wonders for my imagination... and my anxiety.
What’s the one question a bride always asks?
I suppose it's not a question per se, but we often encourage our clients to stick to their instincts. Many times they're afraid to stray from the norm, and I always tell them stories about how many aspects of my own wedding weren't traditional, but were certainly the most memorable for me.
For example, one of our coordination clients is having someone dress up in a bear suit as a "ring bearer" at her wedding. I didn't even blink an eye when she told me her idea, because knowing her fun-loving personality type, it would almost be more strange if she didn't incorporate such an unexpected element into her wedding day!
When someone asks us if it would be "weird" to do something, I'm the first person to say absolutely not; I encourage this behavior wholeheartedly.
What’s one question you wish more couples would ask?
I know it may sound silly, but I wish more couples were interested in the origins of our pieces, because that's truly what sets us apart from an ordinary rental house.
Some of the best conversations I have are with clients that truly appreciate furniture with a past. I love nothing more than geeking out over a brass Milo Baughman bar cart or Victorian era sofa. I realize that's never going to happen with every client, but a girl can dream, right?
Do you have any advice for new business owners/those looking to go at it on their own this year?
You can take all of the appropriate steps in the world and wait for an ideal time to launch your business, or you can simply take the leap and realize that an "ideal" time is never going to come along. We all lead busy lives and can make excuse after excuse as to why it's impossible to start a business, but you'll always be wondering what would have happened if you'd just taken a chance on yourself.
Is being your own boss challenging? Yes. Is being responsible for another person's income intimidating? Yes. But, when you're truly doing something that you love, everything seems to fall into place even if it may not seem that way initially. You'll have to work harder than you've ever imagined, but you'll take such pride in everything that you do, because you realize it's a personal reflection of yourself. This will be your drive and motivation, even on those seemingly unbearable days.
"Don't compare your beginning to someone else's middle."
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I always provide the same advice, because it's truly what I believe: don't compare your beginning to someone else's middle. Learn to be content with being a beginner, learn from any criticism, and set goals for the future. One day, you'll be the company that other's are comparing themselves to, but you certainly can't expect to be what they are from the beginning or you're only setting yourself up for a letdown.
How to Pull Off Day to Night with 4 Key Pieces
How to take your look from boss to babe status.
All you need to easily transition from the office to out is a few key pieces. With a little help from Bebe, the company that's been dressing go-get-em-girls since 1976, it's as simple as swapping your jacket and shoes.
DAY: FROM THE OFFICE TO A LUNCH DATE AND BACK TO THE EMAIL GRIND AGAIN.
The dress is your base. Add a vintage jean jacket, a statement necklace, flat black boots (and optional: tights) and you're daytime ready.
Dotted Stripe Sweater Dress. $139. ; Hana Colorblock Tote. $119.
TO NIGHT: OUT FOR HAPPY HOUR, DINNER WITH FRIENDS, OR DANCING FRIDAY NIGHT AWAY.
Swap the denim for faux leather and the flats for heeled booties. It's a change you can make in your car. Add a red lip and a little cheek highlighter and it's a brand new look.
Dotted Stripe Sweater Dress. $139. ; Hana Colorblock Tote. $119. ; Acheline Pointy Booties, $139.
;Julia Faux Leather Jacket, $149.
And for everyone heading to Dallas for Create & Cultivate, be sure to come to Breakfast with Bebe. We're less than two weeks away!
The Create & Cultivate App Is Here!
We have our own app now, and you can win your own too!
If you’re following us on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Facebook, we now have a new way for you to stay in tune with all things Create & Cultivate right on your phone! We’re so excited to announce the launch of our brand new Create & Cultivate app, thanks to our friends at DWNLD!
DWNLD has hooked us up with an app that brings all of our content, conference updates, and a look back all of our past events right at your fingertips. If you need all the details for our January 30th conference, our entire lineup, schedule, and sponsors are right there, making it easily accessible for when you’re at the conference. Not only that, the app is perfect for you to bookmark our blog content that’s most useful to you, so that way you don’t have to go back to our website and search for it through our archives. Easy peasy!
Make sure to download the C+C app on the App Store to be up to date with all things C+C. If you love our app, enter below to win your own custom app from DWNLD! Also, make sure to learn from DWNLD's Head of Business Development Noah Wunsch on $$$: Monetizing across different channels and strategically growing your following at Create & Cultivate Dallas this month!
GIVEAWAY.
Enter to win a custom app from DWNLD by filling out the form below!
Giveaway ends 1/22/16, 11:59PM PST.
Our Favorite Dallas Finds! Highland Park Village
Dallas' premier shopping destination has you covered, head to toe.
One of the many amazing perks of traveling for Create & Cultivate is learning about must-shop stops in the various cities. Highland Park Village is one such find— it also happens to be America’s first outdoor shopping center.
Talk about entrepreneurial spirit! Highland Park Village became the prototype for retail destinations all over the country, when it opened in 1931. Originally conceived to be a town center, it’s now a bustling hub for all things fashion and food.
Check out some of our favorite stores below, and if you’re heading to C & C Dallas, be sure to pop over to HP Village and get yourself something nice. We think you deserve it.
Starbucks.
You cannot fathom how many amazing luxury stores are in one place. Highland Park Village is like Disneyland for the fashionable girl. So grab a latte, java-up, and get ready to shop.
Chanel.
The bags. The shoes. It’s every girls dream store and it so happens to be right next to Starbucks. Why not start your Highland Park Village experience off with the best that high-fashion has to offer? Chanel is fashion candy at it’s most delicious. Just be careful where you put that latte.
Anthropologie.
Maybe your #girlboss dreams of purchasing your first 2.0 Classic Chanel Flap are still only dreams, but that’s OK. 2016 is goals year. And there is plenty of casual but upscale fashion and home goods at Anthropologie. Be welcomed in by the large glass and doors framed in reclaimed wood and pick out a little treasure to take home.
St. Michael Woman’s Exchange.
More than just a gift shop, this store has raised over $4 million dollars for social service agencies and organizations through the world. Originally called The Women’s Exchange, which opened in 1939, it’s a store that gives back, which is the Texan way.
Alice + Olivia.
Next door to the Exchange is the established brand which opened its very first Texas store in Highland Park this past October. With clothes that cater to the working girl who goes from lunch meetings to drinks, Alice + Olivia is a perfect blend of flirty and sophisticated.
Balenciaga.
Next head to Balenciaga. With its high-polished black and white checkered floor, the store itself is something beautiful to marvel at. With a mixture of classic marble and modern chrome, it might be more stylish than you. But not for long. The Balenciaga Mini City bag never goes out of style. Or opt for the Papier A4 or A6 Zip Around bag. It’s a classic bag that delivers on form, function, and making you feel powerful.
Harry Winston.
Just a quick stop into the fine jewelry house that’s famous for acquiring some of the world’s most famous gemstones. You may not be able to walk out with a ring on your ringer, but a little window diamond shopping never hurt anyone.
Jimmy Choo.
After you visit Harry, pop over to Jimmy. That master shoemaker who can transform any outfit. Get ready to swoon. The Hart 95 boot is the perfect ankle bootie for winter to spring transition, and can be worn to the office and out at night.
Kiehl’s.
Après- shoe, head into Kiehl’s— it’s right next door— and test products from the skin care line that’s been serving up fine formulations for almost 160 years. Create & Cultivate is a long day and the Midnight Recovery Oil will do wonders.
Bistro 31.
If you’re getting hungry, we don’t blame you. Everything has been a feast for your eyes, but now it’s time to grub. At Bistro 31 brunch is a celebration of lemon ricotta pancakes, short rib hash, and a full bar, so you can enjoy an afternoon cocktail or an orange juice— your call.
Highland Park Village is located at 47 Highland Park Village, Dallas, TX 75205. On over 10 acres of land, it’s the premier shopping experience in Dallas.