It’s Black Women’s Equal Pay Day: 2 Founders Share Their Best Money Advice to Close the Gap
It’s time.
Wake-up early and grind all day. You’re closing those deals, brainstorming new ways to reinvent your company’s digital strategy, being a thought-leader and maintaining your professional relationships—all the while your male counterparts are bringing home more dough than you. Say what?
We’re all hustling. Men and women. All the more reason we, as women, should be paid the same as our fellow employees who hold our same roles, qualifications, and skillsets. At C&C, we actively support women in their entrepreneurial endeavors and seeing true equality in our lifetime is a huge part of our M.O. Especially when it comes to equal pay.
For decades, men were seen as the heads of households. It’s nothing short of impressive (as well as inspiring) to hear a statistic that refutes that stereotype: “80% of black mothers are primary or sole breadwinners of their households”. Not only are women today hustling, but they are all around bad-ass.
According to statistics released in May 2018 by the National Partnership for Females & Families, women are paid, on average, 80 cents for every dollar their male counterparts are paid—a gap of 20 cents. But these numbers change considerably for women of color. For example, in 2018, black women needed to work for 20 months to catch up to the pay received by their white, male counterparts. This year, black women won’t reach the threshold until August 22, 2019. This needs to change, asap.
In recognition of this Black Women's Equal Pay Day, we've tapped the shoulders of female founders we admire to share their best money advice to close the gap. Follow along and don’t forget to take notes—we have some good stuff coming your way.
Candace Reels
Founder of Female Collective
C&C: What is your best money advice?
Candace Reels: “Ask for more money than you think you deserve. I think as a woman, especially a black woman, I've dealt with imposter syndrome and feeling like I don't deserve certain things. But in reality, you deserve all of the things and should go after them—especially when it comes to how much money you are making. The worst thing someone can say is no. If that happens, you should then take your talents to a company that will appreciate you and pays you what you deserve.”
C&C: What has been your biggest money mistake and how did you learn from it?
CR: “My biggest money mistake has been being afraid to ask for what I deserve. Being afraid of burning bridges because I don't want to ruffle any feathers when asking to be paid a certain amount. It's important to go after what you want. What I’ve learned is that one door may close, but there will be many others that will open. Don't be afraid to ask for what you want and take this risk, as it will make your career journey a much more fulfilling one.”
C&C: What steps can we take to close the pay gap?
CR: “The steps we can take is just to continue to ask for what we deserve and not take any less. We deserve to be paid the same or more for the work we are producing. It definitely won't be an easy journey, but hopefully, us taking the important steps to close the pay gap will make it easier for generations to come.”
Courtney Caldwell
Co-founder and COO of ShearShare
C&C: What is your best money advice?
Courtney Caldwell: “First, live the 80/10/10 rule: spend 80% of your income on living expenses, save 10% automatically each month, and give 10% (because money has a boomerang effect, so get used to giving it). Second, get a handle on your money goals because what you focus on, you hit. Do this simple task: take one month to write down every one of your purchases on a sheet of paper. If you spend even $0.01, write it down. At the end of the month, review your income and outgo. Are you spending more on discretionary purchases, like Starbucks or Chick-fil-A? Identify two areas where you can save $50-100 in the following month. Do the same thing for month two. After month three, reward yourself with a self-care gift by taking 10% of what you saved over the last 90 days. Treat yourself!”
C&C: What has been your biggest money mistake and how did you learn from it?
CC: “Holding on to money with a closed fist and not realizing that it's called ‘currency’ because it's meant to be constantly flowing. I learned that my refusal to take money risks earlier in life meant that I could have had more of an impact in the lives of others sooner.”
C&C: What steps can we take to close the pay gap?
CC: “Employers can close the pay gap by instituting pay scales that do not fluctuate based on gender. For example, regardless of a new hire's gender, team members are paid the same for the job for which they are hired.”
“It’s Lighting Someone Else’s Candle While Not Dimming Yours” and Other Inspiring Quotes from C&C’s Trip to Project Women’s
There’s more to Vegas than slots and cocktails.
After spending the last two days there, we know first-hand that Las Vegas is home to so much more than slots and cocktails. It’s also the proud destination of our country’s largest fashion trade show. Held twice a year, WWDMAGIC is filled with rows upon rows of fashionable booths filled with the next season’s must-have clothing and trends before they hit the boutiques. Project Women’s is one of the events held within the show and we were thrilled to partner with them this August to host four eye-opening panels with boundary-pushing founders and leaders in the space.
Our fearless leader, Jacyln Johnson kicked off the two-day event to discuss our mission at Create & Cultivate along with industry insights and key takeaways she’s learned while building a multi-million dollar company. This was followed by a diverse panel of influencers, content creators, and flat-out badass women to chat about brand partnerships and creative collaboration. To close the event on its second and final day, Jaclyn sat down with two major personalities in the biz, Catt Sadler and Marni Senofonte—the audience hung off their every word.
Follow along for some insane mic-drop moments, inspirational mantras, and overall entertaining responses from some of our generation’s best.
Creative Collaboration—How to Team Up for a Successful Collab That Is a Win Win
Danika Brysha | Self-Care Coach, Founder/CEO at Model Meals, and IMG Curve Model
Katie Austin | Fitness and Sports Personality
Aysha Harun | Beauty and Lifestyle Content Creator, Ayshaabdul.com
Shalice Noel | Digital Creator, Entrepreneur, and Founder, Shalicenoel.com
Katie Austin
On authenticity in brand partnerships...
“It’s really important to think about what brand partnerships are authentic to your lifestyle already.”
“Do what's practical to your lifestyle.”
“Collaborate with other girls in the industry.”
“When you’re transparent, you create that loyalty and that following.”
“Be more of a peer to your followers.”
On collaboration over competition...
“It’s about lighting someone else’s candle while not dimming yours.”
“Remember that there’s space for everyone.”
Danika Brysha
On authenticity in brand partnerships...
“I’m very vulnerable and raw with my community and there’s been a trust built with that—I take that with the highest regard.”
“Tuning into your body is a big part of what I do for work. If im not doing that and expressing that in my work then I'm not being authentic.”
On unpaid partnerships...
“Sometimes, if you’re not paying someone, it's hard to have specific guidelines.”
“Look for women out there who are looking to support you.”
Aysha Harun
On seeking out representation online...
“I was really into the beauty community on YouTube. I noticed there weren't many women of color or Muslim women of color so I took it upon myself to change that.”
“People will relate to your message whether they look like you or not.”
“I didn't think people who looked like me could build a sustainable career online.”
“Keep posting content and hope someone will believe in that.”
“There is definitely a lot of bandwagon diversity happening.”
“Everyone wants you to fit into a mold no matter what community you belong to.”
On partnering with the right brands...
“We are our own brands and we want to partner with brands that align with our own values.”
“Ask yourself, ‘Is the brand a perfect fit? Will my audience be receptive to it?’
“Research the brands and make sure it’s going to fit in with what you already do.”
On being authentic with your audience...
“There's a lot of time and effort that goes on behind the scenes.”
“Before accepting contracts, I want to test the products for a minimum of two weeks.”
“Trust is a huge thing with our audiences and we don’t want to damage that trust.”
“I want them to walk away from my channel and still be entertained.”
On trusted partnerships on either end...
“Choose who you believe in and don’t be afraid to set boundaries.”
“We’re all creatives and we want to be able to feel creative in what we’re doing.”
“When the pressure is off and we are trusted by the brand, that leads to long-term partnerships.”
Shalice Noel
On balancing motherhood and content creation...
“I’ll admit, it’s really hard. It’s about being intentional.”
“I have to do the hard things on my to-do list that I don’t want to do and I do them in the morning before the kids wake up.”
On how her children have affected her partnership decisions...
“They [my children] have added so much because I can be so real with my audience.”
“It’s allowed me to do more lifestyle partnerships and tell more stories. It’s not just fashion anymore.”
On fostering trust with brands…
“I love when brands trust you and what you’re doing. When they give you some leeway and it leads to a successful partnership.”
“We are creatives and we are brands. Let’s just do what we do well.”
Keynote: Catt Sadler
Panelists:
Catt Sadler | TV Host, Podcast Host, and Journalist
Moderator:
Jaclyn Johnson | CEO, Create & Cultivate
On equal pay and quitting after her male counterpart earned double...
“It was glaringly obvious what I had to do.”
“I've had zero regrets for standing up for myself and taking that leap.”
“Since then, I’ve been using my voice and my reach as much as possible.”
On representation and behind-the-scenes of entertainment...
“I think there's an awareness now that wasn't there before.”
“I think companies are making changes, whether it’s inherently from a good intention or from a PR standpoint.”
“I’ve always been a proponent of moving women forward.”
“There is this new space in media where anybody and everybody can have a stage to discuss.”
On the purpose behind her podcast titled “Naked”...
“It’s about exploring women's real stories and letting it all hang out. We are all here for fashion… But the flip side to that is, who are we?”
“We record in my bedroom. I think the setting evokes a certain energy.”
“I think I have to be a little open and vulnerable.”
“People need to purge. We all need to feel less alone... ‘maybe I’m not suffering in silence’.”
Starting a new career journey…
“Things take time. It takes time to plant seeds, you need to be patient.”
“The menusha to getting what you want isn’t sexy.”
On transparency on money and equal pay…
“I think it’s okay to ask in an interview, “Can I be assured you are paying men and women equally?”
“It is well within your rights to ask. If you don’t know, you can’t ask. It starts on you taking ownership.”
“Not every case is the same. There are a lot of variables. Make sure it’s an apples to apples situation.”
“Record your wins before you can go in and ask for a promotion.”
“Do that research. See what the market rate is for your job.”
On describing her personal style
“I’m a minimalist, I don't over accessorize. A little chic, a little edgy but less is more.”
“I think my personal style is rather relaxed. Functionality is important.”
On her digital presence…
“Cattwalk was really about being a live organism. It’s an extension of my brand.”
“I want to share the cornerstone of what the Cattwalk is. For me it’s women empowerment. It’s a space for everyone who comes to feel sexy, to feel vulnerable, and there’s strength in that.”
“Declaring what you want is manifesting your future. Go there [the Cattwalk] and feel inspired.”
Being inspired by other women...
“I learn every day from other women.”
“What a privilege it is to be female. I am so turned on by what everyone is doing right now.”
“Oprah is the reason I got into journalism.”
“There is such a gift in just doing you.”
Being a working mom and balancing family with business…
“When you’re with them, be with them.”
“Balance is an interesting word. We all have so much on our plate, especially as a parent.”
“Self-care is paramount. It’s okay to put yourself first in a lot of those situations. Meditating, working out…”
“If I did not take care of myself, I would be no one to anyone.”
“Check in with yourself. That's okay. Don't make apologies for yourself.”
“Literally step outside, it’s free. Look at a tree. There is peace in that, there is a calm in that.”
“Be where you are.”
“Say no. You don't have to do everything. Make sure the things you are doing, you want to do.”
Rapid-fire questions:
My life motto is...
“Be in the now. Be in the present.”
Success is…
“Living on my own terms. When you can fully and freely call the shots in your life.”
True equality is...
“A fundamental basic human right. It is what is fair and what is right. We all deserve to be treated exactly the same.”
Keynote: Marni Senofonte
Panelists:
Marni Senofonte | Celebrity Stylist
Moderator:
Jaclyn Johnson | CEO, Create & Cultivate
On getting started as a stylist...
“I kind of learned it on the road. I didn't even know this was a job. I just knew I wanted to do something in fashion and film.”
“Lauren Hill saw something that I did with another artist. I never had a book, it was all word-of-mouth.”
“You don’t have to be a global stylist, but there are so many eyes on you and styling is so accessible now. It’s kind of amazing.”
“I think it's so much easier to create your own job now more than ever before. Even on local levels. It’s not as accessible as people think.”
“Someone who wants to be a stylist is already in it. You have to already have that inside you.”
On her different clients as a stylist…
“Depends on the project I’m working on. If there's a Beyoncé project, there's no sleep.
“When I work with Kendall [Jenner], we’ll share a Pinterest board.”
“Clients need to be inspired by me just as much as I’m inspired by my clients.”
On not wearing black…
“It forces me to be creative every morning.”
On Instagram portfolios…
“It's a blessing and a curse. Everyone’s a stylist now. Everyone can put looks together. It's amazing.”
On the storytelling of styling…
“For Beyoncé, she has well thought out ideas and concepts. There is so much story behind her music. So, the wardrobe kind of comes into play with that.”
“With Kendall, it’s more trend forecasting.”
“With Beyoncé, she’s setting the trend. With her, you have to hear the music.”
On how much of herself goes into her styling…
“A lot of me goes into it. There's a lot of different parts of me.”
“Everything I put on my clients, I would wear myself.”
“My aesthetic is a little bit tomboy and I try to be sexy here and there. I only have one lane and it’s rockstar.”
On fashion accessibility through social media…
“I think it's really great now that everyone has their own magazine, everyone's Instagram is their own Vogue. I think it's amazing.”
“I don't think fashion should be about elitism.”
On Instagram affecting her styling…
“There are no real rules—the only rule I follow is lighting.”
On where she finds inspiration…
“I find inspiration through other people. At my apartment in New York, I sit on my stoop and watch people go by.”
“If I’m at a museum and I see colors, I think ‘oh, i gotta use this’.”
“That’s what styling is. You gotta steal from here, here, here, and here.”
On her Emmy nomination…
“It was a beast. Coachella was a beast. It was eight months of just insane preparation. It was really important. Everything I do with Beyoncé is so well thought-out.”
“The simplest things usually take the most amount of time, the most amount of work, and are the most expensive.”
Rapid-fire questions:
The definition of style is...
“Being honest and true to yourself. If you believe it I'm going to believe it.”
Success is...
“Being able to smile.”
My greatest lesson is...
“Anything is possible. I’m from Pennsylvania, I’m not supposed to be here.”
From Pin to Profit: How These 4 Founders Built a Hugely Successful (and Profitable) Business Via Pinterest
Turn your side hustle into the company of your dreams.
Pinterest. It’s one of the most popular platforms for finding inspiration but it’s not just for wedding planners and craft lovers (although we absolutely support that too), Pinterest is a mecca for business ideas and growing valuable audiences to grow your new brand or product.
Why? Well, it’s a matter of volume. Enid Hwang, culture and community manager at Pinterest told us that more than 300 million people visit Pinterest each month for ideas when planning things big and small—everything from what to eat for dinner to what products to buy. That’s a huge opportunity for people and brands to connect with an audience in an authentic way.
“We see tens of millions of people using Pinterest to further their hobbies and passions, take their side hustle to the next level, get logo or branding ideas, or even save character inspiration for the next big best-selling fiction series, so it’s a lot of people across many different business types,” Hwang tells me. You might think that it’s purely a place for inspiration, but it’s so much more than just pinning a pretty dress. Hwang says tens of millions of searches happen every month around business cards, business ideas, business plans, tips for starting a business, and even motivational quotes. Even more, 72% of trending business search terms are related to finding inspiration for starting or building a business.
Searches for ‘small business tips’ has risen +46% and 59% of small businesses on Pinterest use the platform to collect inspiration, interesting articles, and do work-related research. “People also come to Pinterest to find ideas; we’ve seen 3.5x as many searches on ‘business ideas’ than searches on ‘business plan,” she says. “Specific types of businesses have also gained popularity.”
Here are a few examples of the most popular business topic searches:
-Craft business +206%
-Salon business +98%
-Cake business +97%
-Lash extensions business +86%
-Consulting business +76%
-Jewelry business +72%
-Car wash business +65%
-Online business +58%
-Baking business +42%
-Social media business +41%
A great place to start is by searching Pinterest to find things you personally shop for, are interested in, or need. “When it comes to specific searches that could help spark an idea, we see that ‘business motivation’ (+199%), ‘business mindset’ (+108%), ‘business startup checklist’ (+39%) and even ‘business motivation quotes’ (+54%) are popular with Pinners,” outlines Hwang.
So, to find out more, we connected with four Pinfluencers to understand how we can better use Pinterest to not only spark a new business idea but grow a profitable audience there and build a successful brand in the process—keep scrolling to the end for some exclusive tips from Hwang on how to grow your audience on Pinterest.
Noelle Bryant, Founder, Oh Happy Play
Pinterest profile: Oh Happy Play
When Noelle Bryant’s husband proposed, she started using Pinterest to plan their wedding. “I had boards for every part of the day and found so much joy in browsing spectacular wedding ideas,” she tells me. Eventually, she started a blog by the same name and returned to Pinterest again for promotion and inspiration which she is “very thankful” she did because now Oh Happy Play has 402,000 monthly users and counting.
What tips do you have for building an audience on Pinterest?
“The most important tip for growing an audience is to create eye-catching content. Go above and beyond with quality photography to show off your project. Pinners have only have a second to catch your image while scrolling. It’s also very important to stay relevant. By relevant, I mean to think about the things you search for as a mom (or relating to your own niche) and try to help solve those ‘problems’ for other moms. I knew I wanted to create a floor bed for my daughter and after searching for one, I realized there were very few options. I solved my own problem by getting creative. The infamous trundle bed I created has catapulted my blog to where it is now. I solved a problem that other parents may have been having too. That’s what it’s all about.”
When did you realize your Pinterest interest could be a profitable business?
“It’s funny because for a while, I was still approaching this as a hobby. Mom life can get busy and I had my doubts. But after talking with a friend in the same business, she was blown away by my content and the people who seemed to rally around me. She gave me the push to start charging for my work. Blogging was the new ‘all-for-one’ for businesses and it has only grown since. A brand can hire me for a third of the cost they’d pay to set up a studio, photograph their products, and place the ads they create. They can do the same with me and put their products in front of a target audience. The only thing is that I have to love their products too. I promise myself and my readers that I won’t promote anything I don’t love. My readers’ trust in me is the most important aspect of my business.”
How do you use Pinterest to grow/promote your business now?
“I use Pinterest every day. I try to push Pins that are relevant to current events (like back to school) as well as some classic, or evergreen, ones each day (like baby must-haves or floor beds). There’s a strategy, but ultimately, my goal is to be the answer for people who search for any topic I cover on my site. I want moms to turn to ohhappyplay.com for any and all things motherhood.”
What advice do you have for other women looking to do the same?
“Be authentic. Be you. Create content you believe in and the rest will come. Think about topics you know a lot about and start with those. It will come naturally and you can be a true guide for others. Help solve someone else’s problem.”
Cyndi Hileman, Founder, The Growing Candle
Pinterest profile: Hyggelight The Growing Candle
When Cyndi Hileman started using Pinterest in college to plan things for her life, little did she know it would turn out to be a successful business venture, Hyggelight—The Growing Candle. “My husband and I used Pinterest to figure out the look and feel for our website and social media channels,” she says. “Pinterest is one of my favorite search engines because it makes it easier for me to find a bunch of information. I pin what I don’t have time to read at the moment so I can come back to it later.”
Now she has built a thriving audience there and continues to use the platform to inform the direction of the business from creative ideas to audience development. “Today, we use Pinterest for ideas about creating a zero-waste company,” she explains. “We’re not completely zero-waste yet, but proud to share we send just one household garbage bag to the landfill every three months.”
When did you realize/know your Pinterest interest could be a profitable business?
“We were excited about The Growing Candle when we searched Pinterest, Google, and Etsy and saw that no one was selling a similar product yet or at least not well. We knew this business would be profitable when we attended a couple of craft fairs and saw how mind-blown people were by our product. Most would ask if they were going to see us on Shark Tank while they were buying candles for their whole family.”
How do you use Pinterest to grow/promote your business now?
“We do our best to keep up with our Pinterest account. Pinning, creating new boards, and new content our followers will love is one of my priorities. With how busy our small business gets right now, especially during the holidays, it becomes difficult to find the time to promote our business. Most of the press we have received these last two years has been organic, which has been unbelievable!”
What advice do you have for other women looking to do the same?
“My advice would be to find a problem and solve it. If it’s something you’re struggling with, it’s likely others would love a solution that makes their life easier too. Once you have a prototype, make a few products to sell, book a few events to attend where you think your demographic will be and see if they get as excited about your solution as you do.”
Mitzi Dulan, Founder, simplyFUEL
Pinterest profile: Mitzi Dulan—America's Nutrition Expert
Pinterest was just a place for Mitzi Dulan to share healthy recipes and to find yummy new ones that she wanted to make in the future. Now, the mother-of-two has 549, 000 monthly viewers on the platform, has authored a book called The Pinterest Diet, and appeared on Live! With Kelly & Michael, The Dr Oz Show, CNN, and News.com.
What tips do you have for building an audience there?
“Regularly share valuable, helpful content. Consistently sharing content such as workouts, recipes, and other tips helped my Pinterest following grow.”
When did you realize/know your Pinterest interest could be a profitable business?
“I realized I could make money on Pinterest when I got a lot of followers.”
How do you use Pinterest to grow/promote your business now?
“I share my products on Pinterest, which links back to my Shopify store. There's a lot that businesses can do, and I’m still trying to figure out the best way to leverage Pinterest to help sell my products.”
What advice do you have for other women looking to do the same?
“I’m very fortunate that I grew my Pinterest following at the beginning. My advice is to create great content that others are looking for and then to figure out how to monetize it.”
Erin Pelicano, Founder, Erin Pelicano Fine Jewelry
Pinterest profile: Erin Pelicano Fine Jewelry
It was in 2011 during a regular check-up at her doctor’s office when Erin Pelicano first learned about the social platform that would change her life. “I was chatting with a nurse who knows me and told her about how I wanted to evolve my career from engineering to start a jewelry business,” explains Pelicano. “She asked if I’d heard of Pinterest, which I hadn’t. Her daughter had introduced her it, and she told me how much fun it was to create different boards.”
In the beginning, Pelicano had a mix of personal and business boards but eventually, she learned how to harness the business capabilities and grew her monthly following to 630,000. “I believe we’ve evolved with Pinterest, as it has changed quickly to offer more and more opportunities for small businesses to grow and flourish,” she says.
What tips do you have for building an audience on Pinterest?
“You need to be authentic to who you and your brand are. Taking the time to be active on Pinterest daily, weekly, and monthly is important. This goes well beyond just pinning your own content; I believe it’s important to interact with Pins and Pinners that are cohesive with the customers you’d like to attract. The second part of it is pinning and offering content that your audience loves, not necessarily your own content. That’s what’s amazing about Pinterest, you can create your entire profile using a mix of the best content that speaks to your brand and the audience you are looking to grow.”
When did you realize your Pinterest interest could be a profitable business?
“We launched our Pinterest account fairly early and it took a few years. In 2013, our business had a very rapid growth period, which was primarily driven by Pinterest. Our jewelry collection suddenly went viral on Pinterest and as a small business, it was nothing short of thrilling. Our sales grew and we could see that the traffic was coming directly from Pinterest. Now that we know the power Pinterest has to help us find our customers, we spend time each year working to bring the best content to moms and brides.”
How do you use Pinterest to grow/promote your business now?
“We’ve found the best strategy for our Erin Pelicano Jewelry collection is a hybrid of regular, organized Pinterest strategies combined with some paid (promoted) Pins. Our business experiences large sales volume leading up to both the holiday season and Mother’s Day season, and we’ve found that paid promotions work best during these times. We have a plan for our content each day and month for the year and we think a few months ahead to start pinning relevant content for upcoming seasons and holidays.”
What advice do you have for other women looking to do the same?
“Have a plan, but don’t overthink it. When you start a collection of new boards, create them in the secret board’ mode first. As you grow your boards, make them public. Start with a business account, and use all of the Pinterest business tools: a complete profile, links to your business, stats. And make it fun. In my opinion, Pinterest is, hands down, the most fun platform out there.”
BONUS: How to Grow Your Audience on Pinterest
Optimize for Search
Write search-friendly titles for your Pins. Then spend a little bit of time writing descriptions for each of your Pins: These should include important, relevant keywords in a couple human-readable sentences. For instance, if it’s a recipe, include the key ingredients, type of preparation method, or any dietary notes people might search. For travel, you’d want to include the town/city, country, or maybe even continent or type of travel, ie: Adventure, romantic, or budget-friendly. You can even add a handful of relevant hashtags to echo keywords that would help your content get discovered, ie: #Vegetarian would be better than a hyper-specific #veg4life.
Pin High-Quality Images and Video
Popular Pins are usually high-resolution and high-quality, while busy shots (or graphics) don’t resonate as well. It’s also important to get the size and aspect ratio right so your pins don’t get cut off. Video Pins also help grab attention—the sweet spot is anywhere between 00:50 seconds to 2:00 minutes.
Time It Right
People come to Pinterest look for ideas before an activity or event, so it’s helpful to keep ahead of the curve—pinning about a month in advance is a good rule of thumb. As examples, we’re already seeing increased searches for back-to-school and Halloween.
Tap Into Business Tools
Pinterest has helpful tools just for business owners, such as mobile ads, a business profile and metrics, the following tab, and promote button. Be sure you claim your other accounts on Pinterest too, like Etsy and Instagram.
Up Next: 3 Thoughts That Are Holding You Back From Everything You Want in Life.
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It's Here! Step Inside Our Chic (and Cool) Create & Cultivate Clubhouse in Los Angeles
Where all the magic happens.
Photo: Smith House Photo
Welcome to the Create & Cultivate Clubhouse! We’re so excited to finally reveal our new L.A. workspace where all the magic happens. C&C CEO, Jaclyn Johnson worked closely with interior designer Ginny Macdonald to create an office that not only reflects the unique vision, voice, and DNA of the C&C brand but also inspires and motivates its dynamic team. Ultimately, they wanted to create a collaborative working environment where people could work away from their desk or have smaller team meetings.
Designing every inch of the 5000-square-foot industrial-inspired space in downtown Los Angeles was no mean feet—the large open-plan office has a mezzanine level, three private offices, an open-plan kitchen, conference room, and two bathrooms—but as you can see, Johnson and Macdonald nailed it. The cool urban-industrial architecture style complete with exposed ceilings, double height black metal-framed windows, cinder block walls (painted white), and concrete floors was essentially a blank canvas for them both to put their stamp on.
The first thing people notice upon entering the space is the color scheme. For this, Macdonald really tapped into the Create & Cultivate DNA with salmony pinks and blush tones. “Jaclyn’s husband is a super talented artist so he created two amazing wall murals,” Macdonald recalls. “The first being the terrazzo inspired wall in the lounge area where he used a mix of different shades of pink, peach and gray from Dunn Edwards. The second mural is one of C&C’s mantra’s ‘Collaboration Over Competition’ which is such an inspiring quote so it had to be big and bold.”
Head over to Domino for the exclusive tour including Johnson’s morning routine, then scroll down to learn more about Macdonald’s design process—and shop the room!
The Kitchen
Macdonald considered swapping out the cabinets in the kitchen but it seemed “super wasteful” so she decided to work around them. “Black is such a good base color that goes with everything, especially pink,” she says. The designer stuck to three main colors—black pink, and gray—and added an 8’ long 4-sided waterfall island in a matte finish gray quartz with white veining.
“It looks absolutely incredible and adds a touch of drama in there,” she adds. “We also used the same material to swap out the countertops and added a pretty pink stacked glass tile from Fireclay for the backsplash. I’m so happy glass tiles are coming back because I love how light-reflecting they are.”
Shop the Room:
Dunn Edwards Translucent Silk Paint
Cambria Clareanne Quartz Island
Cedar & Moss Jane Brass Hardware
Cedar & Moss Bjorn Brass Drawer Pull
Joss & Main Darvone 1-Light LED Single Dome Pendant
e-Faucets Newport Brass Single Handle Pull-Down Spray Kitchen Faucet
e-Faucets Newport Brass East Linear Hot & Cold Water Dispenser
e-Faucets Kohler Riverby 33" Drop-In Kitchen Sink
Fireclay Tile Rosy Finch Gloss Tiles
IKEA Dinera 18-Piece Pink Dinnerware Set
The Reception
Photo: Smith House Photo
Macdonald was focused on creating pockets of space that went beyond just sitting at a desk all day. “We added two lounge areas and a few seating nooks where the girls can grab their laptops and hang out on a comfy sofa or take a call away from their desks to have a little privacy,” she says. “I love this pink reception area mainly because of the wall of patterned wallpaper. It’s a long and narrow space but we still managed to make two areas for people to work in—sofa or corner dining table. I would be super happy to sit in either of these rooms to take a break from my desk.”
Photo: Smith House Photo
“The general vibe is badass CEO.”
Macdonald partnered with CB2 to design Johnson’s office. “The general vibe is badass CEO and while we have our bright pops of color elsewhere, we kept this room feeling über sophisticated,” remarks Macdonald. To do this, Macdonald used a marble-topped dining table instead of a traditional desk to create a large work surface.
Macdonald then installed an oversized art piece on the back wall and flanked it with two tall wood storage pieces to add warmth and height. The plants on top of each unit also help to break up the symmetry and add some softness to the room.
Photo: Smith House Photo
Both Johnson and Macdonald wanted to capture the playful essence of the Create & Cultivate brand in the bullpen which is colorful, fun, and high energy but also elevated and chic. “The company is incredibly inspiring to women worldwide so we really wanted the space to represent that,” she explains.
The bullpen space is a long and narrow galley, so they really played into that when setting out the furniture. “We laid out the desks back-to-back in a long linear line which followed the elongation of the space,” she says. “Not only does this create a feeling of openness it allows for a collaborative and inspiring shared workspace.”
The goal was to keep this section really clean and simple since it takes up most of the space in the building. Everything is essentially white—all the desks, chairs, file cabinets and lighting—so the pops of color came from the pink lamp base and the blue pin board screens which they added to tie in with the “blue cave” at the back corner of the office.
Shop the Room:
Joss & Main Method Writing Desk
Joss & Main Villalba Table Lamp
The Container Store Blush Poppin Tape Dispenser & Stapler
RH Teen Classic Metal Frame Pinboard
The Lounge
“We tried to make this room feel like something you’d have in your own home.”
If she had to play favorites, Macdonald would put the lounge area at the top of her list. “Work and home life tends to really collide these days so having break-out spaces that don’t feel corporate and stuffy are really important,” she says. “That’s why we tried to make these feel like something you’d have in your own home.”
Since the lounge area floats in the middle of the space, they decided on a pink channel tufted velvet sofa which looks pretty when seen from all sides. They paired it with two rust toned crushed velvet side chairs with black frames to help edge it up a little. The coffee table—a heavy sculptured marble in an irregular organic shape—makes a cool statement piece and despite how physically heavy it is, Macdonald says it feels light in the space because of the color and shape.
Photo: Smith House Photo
The conference room was a challenge because they had to work with the existing black and gray carpet. “Since we were trying to be budget conscious we couldn’t swap it out and redo the concrete floors underneath, so instead we layered a brightly color rug on top to break it up,” she says. “This is a good tip for when you don’t love the floor finish you’re working with. We chose a rug that was bright but still had darker undertones so that it still worked with the carpet.” The light pink textured wallpaper on the walls also helped to soften the space and draw your eye away from the dark floor covering.
Shop the Room:
Joss & Main Carothers Dining Chair
Joss & Main Almazan Buffet Table
Joss & Main Asher 12-Light Sputnik Chandelier
Wallpaper Warehouse Lepore Blush Linen Wallpaper
CB2 Marcella Brass Antique Mirror Tray
The Blue Cave
Both Macdonald and Jaclyn are big fans of blue so they painted the walls in the office nook aka “The Blue Cave” in a deep navy hue. “This helps the space to feel grounded and it’s also a break from all the pink,” she laughs. This room feels aligned with Macdonald’s personal design style which draws on her U.K. roots or what she coins “rustic countryside style.” She loves to fuse the simplicity of the Scandinavian aesthetic with Japanese design. “I like a room to feel calm, cosy and fresh, well-put-together without being stuffy,” she says.
Shop the Room:
Joss & Main Fallon 4 Drawer Writing Desk
Dunn Edwards Summer Night Paint
Joss & Main Mid-Back Task Chair
Joss & Main Alden Etagere Bookcase
Joss & Main Asher 12-Light Sputnik Chandelier
Joss & Main Deegan 31" Table Lamp
Joss & Main Diamond Motif Zen Light Gray Area Rug
Framebridge Be Cool Man (Repeller) Print
The Bathrooms
While there were no major structural changes to the space they did make some small updates to the bathrooms including replacing the vanities and adding patterned wallpaper in each room. “We also swapped out all the overhead lighting for more modern fixtures that worked with our design,” she adds.
Shop the Room:
Joss & Main Caldwell 36" Single Bathroom Vanity Set
eFaucets Brizo Jason Wu Two-Handle Bathroom Faucet
eFaucets Kohler Purist Towel Bar
e-Faucets Kohler Purist Wall Mount Pivoting Toilet Paper Holder
Project 62 Round Decorative Wall Mirror Brass
Cedar & Moss Terra Surface Flush Mount
CB2 Lyle Round Vase
While this project is definitely a slight departure from the typical Ginny Macdonald Design style she really reveled in the challenge. “Not a lot of clients are wanting too much color at the moment,” she says. “They’re veering towards the all-white and natural California look (which kinda drives me nuts and we have to work extra hard to persuade them to stretch their boundaries) so it was really refreshing to get to use actual color in a space.”
To end this spectacular office tour, we want to leave you with Macdonald’s best piece of advice that applies to both decorating and life. “Trust your gut and dare to break the rules,” she says. “I try not to follow suggested formulas when it comes to decorating otherwise things can end up boring and no one wants that.” We couldn’t agree more.
The Best 24 Target Office Finds Under $100 (According to Designers In the Know)
For a productive (and pretty) desk.
Take a look around your desk right now. Is it neat and orderly or messy and cluttered? Don’t worry if yours is in the latter camp, I’m definitely there with you, too. It’s not for a lack of wanting to be organized—I even asked 20 people for their work hacks to ramp up my productivity—but we all know how busy our lives are now and getting your desk in order always slides to the end of our to-do lists. Right?
So, I have been on a personal mission to organize my disorderly desk because research shows that a stylish work environment equates to enhanced well-being and increased efficiency. Basically, it’s a win-win. Whether you work from home or have an office to go to, there are small (and inexpensive) things you can do to create improve the atmosphere—this chic under-$100 office décor is a good place to start.
So, we turned to some of our designer friends to share some of their favorite office finds for creating a productive and pretty desk. And bonus, all of them are available at Target for under $100. You’re welcome.
Breegan Jane, Founder, BreeganJane.com
Ubrands Marble Dry Erase Board
$10
“Using natural materials in a space is one of my design signatures. The allure and grace of marble is simply unmatched. With this marble patterned erase board, you can capture the elegance of the stone, even in the little things. After all, both goal-chasing and beauty lie in the details.”
Moleskine 2019-2020 Planner
$20
“Busy schedules and appointment-filled days call for structure and endless reminders. These Moleskine planners ensure you’ll never miss a commitment. They’re available in a variety of colors, so you’re certain to find one that tickles your fancy. My interior designer’s brain insists that even my office supplies align with my aesthetic, so teal is my choice. I never mind the ocean-hued wash of color sprinkled about in my space because it only enhances the gold accents in the office. Gorgeous planners laying on desks and tables unintentionally act as décor.”
Ubrands White Wood Frame Burlap Bulletin Board
$33
“The versatility of this board is what I love. Create an inspiring vision board, post photos of your family, or add your weekly to-do list. This board can be utilized in so many ways and would be a great addition to any home or office space.”
Ubrands Gel Pens
$13
“Branding and professional image is important, and that even involves my signature. Gel pens offer me longevity when it comes to writing because they are fade-proof, and that’s what I prefer when I sign contracts and important documents. The colors are bolder, and that’s needed when I want my name and notes to stand out.”
Up&Up Sticky Notes
$3
“Multitasking is the name of my game. I tend to transfer ideas from one place to the next, and sticky notes are perfect for that. I love that I can move sticky notes with ease versus tearing paper out and tucking it somewhere I’ll never remember. They’re small, transferable and brightly colored—all things that help me keep great ideas in sight as I go throughout my day.”
Monica Wilcox, Founder M Wilcox Design
“This versatile hanging file is not only mobile, but very functional and stylish, I love the leather file holder on this.”
“This catch-all pencil holder is great for all your essentials and I love the gold finish on this.”
Threshold Gold Letter Tray
$11
“This letter tray is also very stylish and a chic storage option for other files on your desk.”
Barker Creek File Folders
$11
“I love this coordinating piece to go with the tray. It’s modern design can go with boho-chic or modern rustic.”
Botanical Notebook
$11
“I love the colorful florals in this notebook design, the bold orange, cool blue, and green coordinate beautifully together.”
Room Essentials Organizer Task Lamp
$20
“This lamp and supply holder does double duty with adding space and organization (in a chic design) to your desk area.”
RoomMates Boho Floral Peel and Stick Giant Wall Decals
$11
“I’m completely obsessed with wall decals right now and this colorful floral motif will brighten up any space.”
Threshold Magazine File
$13
“This is the final coordinating piece to my collection of storage for files and a catch-all for your to-do list.”
Nina Magon, Founder, Contour Interior Design
Project 62 Dean LED Task Lamp
$30
“It's a sleek and minimalistic table lamp that’s great for working and reading without taking up too much room on your desk.”
Project 62 Thin Gallery Frame
“This frame is a simple and classic way to display a personal photo or art to add interest in your office space.”
Project 62 Decorative Box
$18
“This little wooden box is a great mini storage item for paperclips to remove clutter from your desk surface.”
Threshold Decorative Bookend
$12
“This marble bookend is a great way to organize your book collection and add a stylish touch.”
Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Vase
$14
“This wooden vase is the perfect way to incorporate some flowers or greenery and add a pop of nature to an office space.”
John McClain, Founder, John McClain Design
Target Modern Wall Shelf
$13
“Store that stapler, tape dispenser, pencil cup, paperclips, and whatever other bits of office minutia are cluttering up your desk on this practical wall shelf. The small ledge will keep items put while the modern design will keep the aesthetic clean.”
Smith & Hawken Brass Gold Planter
$8
“Speaking of pencil cups, why not store your writing utensils in this perfect little pot? Originally intended as a planter, this vessel is perfectly designed to hold your pencils and pens without shedding shavings or wayward ink. The shape is also a subtle reminder to finish up what you are doing and go outside.”
Project 62 Metal Wall Pocket Black
$15
“Files are a necessary evil but the storage of files doesn’t necessarily have to be ugly. This chic metal holder will keep your files, catalogs, magazines or what-not hidden but within easy reach. The ever so subtly creased corners are reminiscent of a brown paper bag... lunch anyone?”
Project 62 Decorative Gold Envelope
$13
“For those smaller scraps of paper such as notes, receipts and (gulp) bills, this metal envelope is the cutest catch-all. Who hasn’t put that little piece of paper “somewhere safe” never to see it again? Those days will be long over with this little beauty.”
Threshold Reversible Bulletin & Chalk Board with Gold Frame
$15
“Write down a phone number, create your daily to-do’s or pin an inspirational image to this adaptable multitasker. Need to make notes? Chalkboard is at your service. Papers and images need to be visibly available? Corkboard to the rescue. With the flick of the wrist this ‘do it all’ will help keep you organized. It’s not hard on the eyes either.”
Project 62 Planter Decorative Wall Sculpture White, Set of 2
$15
“Remind yourself that you work to live not live to work with these sweet geometric planters. Fill the vessels with flowers, ferns, air plants or whatever catches your fancy. As they hang from the wall, no space is sacrificed for beauty. For those with a truly black thumb the containers can be filled with paper clips, rubber bands, or push pins.”
Why We're Celebrating the Good (and the Bad) From 2019 and Stepping Boldly Into the New Year
See inside our cocktail party during the Vision Summit in Miami.
In paid partnership with Steve Madden.
The year that was 2019 is almost over and yes, it was definitely challenging at times but we all know that out of change and failure comes growth, right? And ultimately, that stretching and persistence to get through the bad times with the good is what will take us to the next stage in our career, and our lives.
So, we decided to celebrate the many tests and stumbles we experienced last year by partnering with our friends at Steve Madden during our Vision Summit in Miami. We want to encourage everyone to put the year behind them and step boldly into 2020 with confidence and style.
We invited local visionaries, bosses, and founders to join us and clink champagne in celebration of our achievements while enjoying the stunning collection from Steve Madden footwear. Click through the gallery below to see all the fun photos from the night and head to the comments to let us know how you’re stepping boldly into the New Year.
Strong Suit: 12 People We Admire Share What They Wear to Look (and Feel) Powerful at Work
Let’s get down to business.
From the outside, Mindy Kaling is the definition of confidence. She’s never been afraid to speak out, she isn’t afraid to be vulnerable (she was so open about her fears of raising her daughter as a single mom), and she has redefined the outdated beauty (growing up in Cambridge, Massachusetts, she wasn’t considered “traditionally cute”) and gender standards in Hollywood (for the first year, she was the only woman on staff at The Office) paving the way for the rest of us. But Kaling will be the first to tell you that she wasn’t born with confidence or as she calls it that “bulletproof feeling”—it was earned.
Just hearing that makes us all sigh a little in relief, and yet it also makes us acutely aware of the work that needs to be done to acquire it. One quick and simple solution is via the outfit you wear to work. Clothing can be an incredibly powerful tool to summon confidence and self-assurance—what that outfit is, however, is different for everyone. That’s way we launched our new series, Strong Suit where we ask people we admire what to wear to work and how it makes them feel.
Read on to hear from founders, entrepreneurs, and CEOs and be sure to let us know who you want to see featured next.
Jules Miller
Founder, The Nue Co
Jules’ Work Outfit:
“You can’t go wrong with AF1’s—they’re classic and I like these because they have a slight twist on the original design"
“Wearing comfortable clothes that make me feel confident is important for my day-to-day wear. I really like the cut and the fit of this silk shirt."
“Jeans are a staple in my wardrobe. I find Mother fit really well so I have these in a few different colors and designs."
“This oversized blazer is an easy addition for an updated work outfit. I throw it over a shirt and jeans or a dress."
Jennifer Fisher Gold Hoop Earrings
“I wear hoops daily, but my favorite are these Jennifer Fisher earrings. I’m a big fan of all Jennifer Fisher’s designs, especially these, as they’re simple, and elevate any outfit I wear.”
Comme Des Garçons Small Zip Pouch
“The Comme Des Garçons pouch is the perfect size for everything I need. It fits just the right amount of cards and I can throw it into any day bag or smaller bag when I’m out for the night.”
“My go-to beauty product is our Topical-C. It’s the one product I can say consistently keeps my skin bright, glowing and smooth. I mix around 2-3 shakes in with my face cream, morning and night."
Natalie Alcala
Founder, Fashion Mamas
Natalie’s Work Outfit:
“This is my dream suit. I'd wear it with a black or white bodysuit at work, and go bare under the blazer for a night out. Date night would inspire me to trade the pants for a mini skirt.”
“I love the silhouette of this mini dress, and the fact that it has buttons which I can easily undo for breastfeeding on the fly.”
UO Pennsport Plaid Button-Front Skirt
“Urban Outfitters is my go-to for quick mini skirts. I like to have an arsenal of them at all times. They're comfortable, accessible, and came be worn with both heels and sneakers.”
“LACAUSA is one of my favorite local L.A. brands. I love that this dress is beautiful for work but also cozy enough to keep on when you're hanging around the house after work. I'm one of those people who has to change into cozy clothes the second I walk into my home.”
Rachel Pally Linen Rocco Jumpsuit
“This jumpsuit screams I mean business. I love that you can work all day in this, in a variety of environments, and that it also zips down to your liking.”
Lillian Tung and Laura Schubert
Co-founders, Fur
Laura’s Work Outfit:
Pleats Please Pants by Issey Miyake
“As a business owner and mom to a toddler, I gravitate towards clothing that is versatile and durable without sacrificing style. I feel powerful in these knowing that I'll be ready to take on any situation, whether that's catching a flight, going to meetings, or chasing my daughter on the playground, who runs alarmingly fast for a two year old.”
Hanes x Karla the Crew t-shirt
“It's been said a million times, but having classic, go-to staples in your closet is a must. I love these updated Hanes classics designed by Karla Welch—it's the perfect boxy tee.”
“Jill Platner is a sculptor and jewelry maker who makes all her pieces on Crosby Street, only a few minutes away from where I used to live in Soho. In addition to being beautiful and durable pieces I can wear every day, I love that a lot of the metal she uses are made from recycled materials, in an effort to offset the environmental impact of mining.Z”
Zero Maria Cornejo Apron Dress
“Zero Maria Cornejo is a great woman-run brand that makes all their clothing in NYC, using sustainable practices. I recently got this denim apron dress that I love—I'll sometimes layer my Hanes x Karla tshirt underneath it so that I'm not shivering in the office.”
Lillian’s Work Outfit:
Fila Disruptor 2 Premium Sneakers
“I was recently told that the teens calls these ‘dinostompers’ but they're honestly so comfortable and fun. I wouldn't go as far as to call myself a sneakerhead but I like a good flashy sneaker that feels more dressy than athleisure. And you know what, I feel powerful dinostomping around in these.”
“While I was pregnant, I stole these from my husband's closet all the time—and now that I'm nursing, I'm not planning on giving them back. They're crisp, comfortable, and look great buttoned up or left open with a shirt underneath.”
“Laura had these on her list too, but I like the more wide leg funky shaped ones. Like she said, they're just such incredibly versatile pants and clearly very well designed.”
“Having a power blazer in the arsenal is crucial. It's also the easiest way to dress up a t-shirt or whatever you have on underneath. It's cliche, but you can't not feel powerful in a good blazer.”
“I love what Laura Lombardi is doing with her jewelry—they all seem to have such an eternal summer feel. She's an NYC based designer, and makes her pieces with almost exclusively raw or recycled metals, so it's a great brand I can get behind.”
Fur's Nothing-to-Hide Tote Bag
“We designed these tote bags with the slogan ‘Nothing to Hide’ as an homage to our mission at Fur of normalizing body hair, and being leaders in opening up the conversation. It comes with orders of the Fuller Frontal bundle, but lucky for me I'm always able to snag a few from the office supply.”
Anine Bing
Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Anine Bing
Anine’s Work Outfit:
Anine Bing Becky Blazer and Anine Bing Becky Trouser
“There’s something so rock ‘n’ roll about a power suit. I love pairing something timeless with a tee and statement boots—this is a uniform that leaves me feeling ready for anything which is why it’s one of my go-to’s. I love this pinstripe pattern because it's so timeless, but when paired with a tee, this style can feel new again and modern. It’s so easy to dress up or down.”
“I wear boots every single day. They give every look that perfect amount of rock ‘n’ roll. I love our Annabelle boots in white to break up the dark suit.”
Mary Peffer
Los Angeles-based writer and photographer.
Mary’s Work Outfit:
Re/Done Levi’s Ultra High Rise Ankle Crop
“I’m polyamorous when it comes to my denim wardrobe and there’s something about old Levi’s that really allow you to move with confidence. Crucial since I’m always rolling around trying to take the perfect photo. Re/Done nails basically every design they conceive and their skinny jeans are no exception. Put them on and live your life as they mold to your body with each wear. “
JBrand Elsa Birthday Blazer In Black Leather
“Two words: power shoulder. Elsa Hosk’s buttery leather jacket makes you feel at once chic and like you can take over the world.”
Acne Studios Technical Sneakers
“I’ve always been a black-boot girl but this summer I leaned into sneakers out of necessity due to living on set and now I rarely take my Acne’s off. Who doesn’t want to work with pillows under their feet?”
“When it comes to handbags, Hedi Slimane can do no wrong in my eyes. After some significant denial about my financial means I took the plunge and invested in the C bag for my birthday. Reasoning my emotional response was intuition telling me this cross body with compartment space for days was rare. But maybe most importantly for me, I knew I wouldn’t have to worry about seeing my industry peers rocking duplicates coming and going. Something I can’t stand when dropping a significant sum. Happy to report it has proven to be an extension of my body for its polished yet edgy vibe. “
Lauren Alexander
Founder, LNA Clothing
“My go-to, everyday office look, has been a white t-shirt and blue jeans for almost 14 years. We started LNA with just four white t-shirts in 2006 and it’s still my ultimate uniform. I grew up in California so classic relaxed dressing has always been my thing. I feel the most confident when I am being true to my personal style—in or out of the office. And plus, a perfectly worn pair of jeans and a crisp white tee is never going to go out of style.”
Lauren’s Work Outfit:
“My most worn LNA tee of 2019 is the Ava tee. It’s slightly cropped and boxy which a super thick neckband. I wanted it to look like you cut an old Hanes tee that was about 2 sizes too big for you.”
“Because my daily uniform is pretty basic I really focus on accessories to elevate my look and keep it from getting boring. Shoes, earrings, and my workbag are always my focus. It makes my jeans and tee outfit so much more fun. It’s where I tend to spend more money because to be honest these accessories get the most use and also take the biggest beating. I never treat anything like its too precious—I love the way my Gucci work bag gets all scratched and worn from over stuffing it with fabric and lugging it around to factories.“
Gucci Quilted slide sandal with Interlocking G Horsebit
“The main area where I like to change it up and keep things from getting mundane is my shoes. Designer shoes are a splurge, but my twin sister always repeats a quote to me when we go shoe shopping—“you spend the majority of your life in bed or in shoes”—and I just love that quote. I was in Italy last week and brought these quilted Gucci slides. They look like bedroom slippers and they are just the most comfortable shoes on the planet. I have worn them every single day since I got them.”
AGolde Cherie High-Rise Straight Jean
“I currently have 10 pairs of blue jeans that I keep on rotation. I used to only wear Levi’s but since last year I have become a massive AGolde fan. They remind me so much of old Levi’s and are my current go-to’s.”
“My favorite jewelry to wear every day is Luv Aj. Amanda (the owner and designer) is a friend of mine but I would wear it even if I didn’t already love her. I sleep, work out, shower, swim in the ocean, and work in her jewelry. My most worn Luv Aj pieces are always the earrings. I live in her cross hoops and dagger earrings the most. I love the edge they give my outfit. They are also the accessories I get asked most about. The rest of my jewelry is either vintage or one-of-a-kind.”
B-Low the Belt Baby Bri Bri Belt
“I grew up riding horses so I’m a sucker with anything that ties back to it. I love belts that have a western or ranch look to them. I saw a street style photo of Candice Swanepoel wearing one like this and I had to buy.”
Beautycounter Precision Liquid Eyeliner
“Another important element of my daily uniform is my make up. I always, always, always wear a cat eye. I like to think it’s my signature along with my red nails. It’s a way to instantly make me feel more dressed up and put together. I’m very big on natural and non toxic beauty so I use a lot of BeautyCounter products. I could go on and on about my whole routine, but, my eyeliner is defiantly the focus. The BC liquid liner is prefect for my every day cat eye and really stays put. I’ve tried almost every natural eyeliner, and this one is definitely one of my faves.”
Dr. Melissa Doft
Founder, Doft Plastic Surgery
“I almost always wear a dress to work. Being a female plastic surgeon is a rarity and I love to let my feminine side show through—it is also so much easier. Perhaps because I am a surgeon, I favor tailored clothing. To feel great in your clothes, you need to choose brands which fit your body well or have them tailored. I also love clothes with a fun detail or top stitching. Here are some things which I have my eye on.”
Melissa’s Work Outfit:
Zac Posen Asymmetric-Neck Sheath Dress
“I love the strong color of this dress. So often New Yorkers wear only black so I usually want to throw a color into the mix. This dress is tailored but sexy. I love it.”
Miu Miu Crystal-Embellished Ruffled Mini Dress
“I love this cady dress. I wear this style often as it’s both professional and classic. The pink makes it fun and more modern.”
Gabriela Hearst Polka-Dot Silk-Twill Midi Dress
“Shirt dresses always work well. To me, they are equivalent to wearing a button down but so much better, and I like to be more playful with prints like understated polka-dots.”
J.Crew Fluted Hem A-Line Dress
“Tweed makes me feel grown-up, but the print and little ruffle are so fun.”
Melissa Jones
CEO and Creative Director, DTE Studio
Photo: Su Mustecaplioglu
Melissa’s Work Outfit:
Dries Van Noten Sateen Double-Breasted Blazer
Dries Van Noten Crepe Wide-Leg Trousers
"I love an oversized blazer and trousers, it’s comfortable, not tight and restrictive and the oversized look adds a playful touch but is still business. Dries Van Noten is my favorite for suits; tailored but casual and easy. His suits are perfect to wear together or as separates, you can’t go wrong with this kind of an investment."
"For an everyday look it’s always cool to dress down a suit so wearing a casual top is more my style. My friend Erin Beatty (formerly of Suno) started this awesome new brand Rentrayage to repurpose, reinvent and redesign existing clothes. I love this piece from her latest t-shirt collection but they sell out fast."
"For a super important meeting where you want to make an impression I love a clean, fresh white blouse. To avoid contributing to over-consumerism I try to buy these basics from outlets or designer warehouses so that I still get the quality I want but I’m helping to reduce waste by buying great products from unsold older collections."
"With jewelry, I prefer pieces that I can wear every day and never take off. I’m not great with changing my jewelry everyday so simple clean styles like a tennis bracelet or gold hoop earring are my staple. Jewelry Designer Bliss Lau is a client and friend and I adore her work so she creates custom rings for me that expand on her Kaleidoscope puzzle ring—five rings in one that you can mix and match. I love creating new combinations with her pieces."
Balenciaga BB Slingback Flat Ballerina
"For shoes, my go-to is a flat pointed toe. It’s comfortable and stylish, not too frumpy. I’m obsessed with these Balenciaga flats lately."
Rachel Krupa
Founder, Krupa Consulting and The Goods Mart
Rachel’s Work Outfit:
“ I’m obsessed with this bodysuit, it’s literally the one piece that I always travel with. It’s so versatile. Great with jeans, shirt, under a dress, heck, I’ve even wore it under leggings to work out—a staple.”
“I feel awake when I put on my red lip. This is the perfect red that can be worn day or night. It literally boosts my confidence.”
“I call these my cool grandpa shoes. They are sustainable which adds a pep to my step and they are comfortable.”
Annie Bing Rosemary Slip Dress
“Three words to describe this dress: sophisticated, sexy and comfortable. I’m loving pairing this dress with my Everlane Threads.”
“Hot outside equals cold inside. When the air conditioner is bumping, I love tossing this sweater on. It’s a beautiful color and sooo soft.”
Fleur Du Mal Straight Neck Cami
“I’m all about how things feel and this cami feels incredible on. My work uniform is typically black, white, navy and grey with pops of red. This is my go-to red.”
“I love a good high waisted jean… it’s something about feeling like I’m getting a hug all day long.”
“If I were to live in a decade based on fashion, I would have been the 70’s and these jeans are the perfect pair. Soft to the touch, high waisted and really interesting.”
Evelyn Couzijn
La Prairie Vice President Sales, North America
Photo: Russell Starr @ Starr Digital Photo Inc.
Evelyn’s Work Outfit:
Dolce & Gabbana Half-Sleeve Jewel-Neck Sheath Dress
“This classic dress is perfect for a day in the office or to meet clients. Classic, simple and sleek exudes confidence.”
Tom Ford Bell-Sleeve Silk Sheath Cocktail Dress
“This dress is great when the day moves into an evening function for classic elegance.”
The Row Devi Sleeveless Sheath Dress
“Another classic dress for the office or for meetings out of the office. Classic no frills make this a comfortable style that is non-distracting.”
One can never go wrong with an Armani suit. The relax cut in the pants and jacket makes sitting and working at a desk super comfortable. This style takes it up a notch with a velvet blazer that works from day into the evening. The midnight blue is very flattering.”
Donna Karan Double Breasted Jumpsuit
”This Donna Karen jumpsuit is perfect for a no-fuss day touring malls. Easy to walk and sit in.”
Dr. Lamees Hamdan
CEO and Founder, Shiffa
“I don’t wear full-on suits. I wear either a cool pant (by Marni, Chloe or The Row) with a shirt, or a suit jacket with neutral pants. I love midi and long dresses as well. Every season I buy a silk printed shirt from Isabel Marant. Comfort, good fabrics and great cuts rule above everything else for me. I would rather repeat something to death, than buy lesser quality, or buy more clothes. And I build on things—I expect to wear my clothes each season, so I tend to choose styles that don’t date, or that are “anti-fashion” such as Marni and Prada.”
Lamees’ Work Outfit:
Isabel Marant Jalford Ruched Roll-Neck Top
“Leopard print for me is a neutral, and I am so into nude palettes right now (my only colorful clothes come from Marni).”
Brooks Brothers Merino Wool Jacket
“This blazer is so beautifully cut, nice and sharp—I wear it all the time.”
“Silk shirts (black, white, and colors) from J. Crew are great value and beautiful to wear.”
Borgo De Nor Rafaela Orchid and Leopard-Print Crepe Midi Dress
“This dress is supremely comfortable, sexy yet professional at the same time. I love this dress and it’s quickly becoming a favorite (I’ve already worn it many times).”
“I find good pants are a must, so I usually get mine from Chloe and The Row. They both look good on my body type, and, especially Chloe, always has interesting prints. Because I live in hot areas, I find loose silk printed pants very useful (T-shirt for a casual office look, with a blazer for a “meeting” look).”
Manolo Blahnik Carolyne Leather Low-Heel Slingback Pump
“For shoes I usually go for neutrals—Manolo Blahnik nude sling backs or gold Gucci gold pumps. I bought these Monolos in nude and wear them until I need a new pair. It covers me for so many outfits, both dresses and pants.”
“ I bought these years ago when they first launched, and I find I use them a lot especially fall/winter. The block heel is strong and the gold color gives a little playful irreverence to your look. I don’t like a ‘too-stuffy-office’ look.”
Kim Perell
Angel Investor, National Bestselling Author and Tech CEO
Kim’s Work Outfit:
“Black dresses are simple and always look good, no matter the setting.”
“This is a great comfortable dress with an exposed zipper up the back, which is always recognizable.”
Theory Travel Wool Classic Blazer
“A red blazer is a powerful color which stands out and makes for a great statement piece. Wear this for a professional look with a little bit of flair.”
“My job requires me to travel up to 80% of the time and a classic black flat will always look classy and comfortable for long walks through the airport or between meetings.”
“This is a great investment piece. Classic, professional, comfortable and will take you from meetings, to dinners, to after work events.”
Vince Camuto Savilla Point-Toe Pump
“A black classic pump with a wearable heal height. Perfect for a young woman building her wardrobe.”
“I love a big bag. It provides enough space to keep everything including my purse, laptop, and any business materials, as well as a change of shoes. This bag is easy to travel with and matches everything.”
Up Next: 3 Thoughts That Are Holding You Back From Everything You Want in Life.
C&C Classifieds: Kendra Scott, LinkedIn, The Honest Company & More
New job opps at Startr Co, Kendra Scott, LinkedIn & more
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Startr Co - Los Angeles, CA
Kendra Scott - Austin, TX
Lola Creative - Edmonds, WA
Joolz - Fort Lee, NJ / Remote
The Brand Guild - Wasington, D.C.
The Honest Company - Los Angeles, CA
Goop - Los Angeles, CA
IBM - Austin, TX
The Washington Post - Washington D.C.
LinkedIn - San Francisco, CA
Social Media Associate Manager
Nestlé- Arlington, VA
Associate Brand Marketing Manager
Fannie Mae - Washington D.C.
Social Media Marketing Manager
General Mills - Austin, TX
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Pack This, Not That: Anine Bing Shares Her 10 Travel Essentials for the Plane
She never flies without them.
Traveling is fun but it can also be taxing on your body, especially when your job requires you to be on a plane every other week—because let’s be honest, planes are breeding grounds for bacteria. So, how do you stay healthy and make your flight more enjoyable? In our new series, Pack This, Not That we ask regular jetsetters—from CEOs to entrepreneurs—to share the carry-on essentials they won’t board a plane without.
If you’ve ever stumbled across Anine Bing’s Instagram account then we guarantee it took you on a deep dive down the feed, saving inspirational images along the way. Her style is inimitable and achievable all at once, equal parts aspirational and relatable. And you’re not alone in your obsession—721,000 people follow her every style move on the platform clicking to buy and mimic her effortless looks.
Besides her thriving online site (which includes her cool kids line) Bing has opened multiple stores across the world from London to Paris. She’s a total boss—it’s why she made it onto our C&C 100 list this year. But that also means she travels extensively to cut the ribbon on new boutique openings and check on the status of existing ones. So, of course, we were intrigued to know what her carry-on essentials are.
Read on to find out Bing’s 10 travel essentials for the plane, and shop them for your next trip.
Travel Essential: Anine Bing Charlie Boots
Price: $699
Why I Love It: “I take these boots with me on every trip. I love wearing them to the airport because they are easy to slip in and out of, plus they go with everything.”
Travel Essential: Think Thin Protein & Superfruit Bar, Pack of 9
Price: $18
Why I Love It: “I am a sugar addict, lately I’ve been trying to replace my candy snacking with healthier options but I always have a snack packed with me for long flights.”
Travel Essential: Anine Bing Croco Tote
Price: $599
Why I Love It: “This is the perfect carry-all to pack every essential in and even fits all the stuff for my kids when we travel as a family.”
Travel Essential: Anine Bing Indio Sunglasses
Price: $179
Why I Love It: “These are the perfect accessory to add a touch of glamour to any look, especially when I’m on vacation and wearing minimal makeup.”
Travel Essential: Anine Bing Kim Military Jacket
Price: $249
Why I Love It: “Weather is so unpredictable, I love packing pieces that can easily take a look from day to night and something that adds a little edge. This jacket is my current obsession.”
Travel Essential: Joanna Vargas Glow-to-Go Mask Set
Price: $75
Why I Love It: “I never go anywhere without a sheet mask. I’ll do them right on the plane or after I get to my destination. It’s the perfect way to keep my skin hydrated and refreshed.”
Travel Essential: VitaJuwel Gem Water Bottle
Price: $78
Why I Love It: “I take my reusable water bottle everywhere. I’ve learned that staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do to beat jet lag.”
Travel Essential: Gartner Studios Black Leather Journal
Price: $14
Why I Love It: “I am always inspired by things I see when traveling and like to keep notes of what I love to take back to the design studio.”
Travel Essential: Savage Rose Perfume Oil
Price: $69
Why I Love It: “This scent keeps me feeling refreshed and calm. I throw it in my bag and apply touch-ups throughout the day.”
Travel Essential: blowpro Faux Dry Shampoo with Pure Protein Blend
Price: $19
Why I Love It: “For vacation days where I don’t want to spend time getting ready, this powder is a lifesaver. It keeps my hair looking refreshed even when I don’t want to wash it.”
Up Next: Pack This, Not That—The Travel Items a Seasoned Jetsetter Won't Board a Plane Without.
I Want Your Job: Dyson's Marketing Director on the Power of Interning to Launch Your Career
You’ll want to write this down.
Photo: Courtesy of Create & Cultivate
Marketing. It’s a word we’ve all become familiar with but what does the job entail exactly? For many of us, the concept can seem ambiguous, but in short, marketing is really all about storytelling. Just ask category director of personal care at Dyson, Caitlin Murtha. Her career trajectory from intern to dream job is inspiring and proves that hard work, commitment, and grit are traits you can always count on to get there. After speaking with her for this story, we can say with honestly, I want your job.
Ahead, Murtha shares the importance of internships, how she scored the gig at Dyson, what their marketing secret sauce is, and advice for other young professionals who want her job too. Grab your notepad because you’ll want to write these down.
Describe your career journey—how did you get your foot in the door and land where you are today?
I received my college degree in marketing and always knew I wanted to pursue it as a career. I did several internships while in college, which were all very different such as working at Chanel (RTW), Women’s Wear Daily, and Estee Lauder (BeautyBank). I knew the importance of interning, getting that experience prior to graduating, but equally using those experiences to help guide me and give me a better understanding as to what marketing was.
My first job was in retail working at Macy’s doing their events. After a couple of years, I moved to New York City to work at Bath & Body Works on their Public Relations team. While I loved the pace of that job, I knew I wanted to do more marketing, particularly around beauty. An internship opportunity came up at Coty working on the new Beyoncé Heat fragrance. While it was a huge risk going from being fully employed to doing another internship, I felt it was the right thing to do for my career and ultimately help reach my goals.
I worked at Coty for a few years, moving from the U.S. brand management team to the Calvin Klein global marketing team. I progressed in my career while at Coty, helping to launch the CK One Color line and then eventually moving over to the fragrance side of the business. A move to Chicago afforded me the opportunity to work for a smaller beauty company for a couple years, which eventually led me to Dyson. Ironically, I had been following Dyson for a couple years as I was intrigued by the company as much as I was about their products and technology.
I didn’t want to pigeon hole myself too much by continuing to work in beauty and felt it was important to gain more experience outside of the industry. So I took a leap of faith by accepting a job at Dyson looking after the Environmental Control (purifiers, fans, heaters) products, but ironically was soon tapped to head up the personal-care category. It was a nice way of telling me that I belonged in beauty.
Dyson is such a respected name in the personal-care category, with high-tech beauty tools loved by many. When a new technology is released, what’s the process you and your team follow to market it effectively?
The beauty about working at an organization such as Dyson is that the technology and products really speak for themselves. Every product launch is unique in its own right and may be approached differently depending on the overall objective of the launch and the audience we are trying to reach. However, there are a few critical pieces we try to follow:
1) Having the right technology and offering for the consumer that truly solves a problem.
2) Continuous testing and research pre- and post-launch.
3) Work hand-in-hand with our cross-functional team members—it takes a village!
We work well in advance of a launch to really understand the technology, the problems it solves, why it’s different (and better) and identifying what the white space opportunity is.
Photo: Courtesy of Create & Cultivate
Social media has changed marketing so much these last few years. Can you share a time you’ve pivoted your strategy to adapt to a new feature, algorithm, etc.?
We always try to stay abreast of the newest technology within social platforms as it is a great way to engage with shoppers and our owners. As their moods and interest evolve with the technology, we need to be ready with the right message to the right person at the right time and being on top of trends and technology allows us to do that.
What advice would you give to young professionals trying to break into the marketing industry?
Don’t be afraid to take risks. It’s okay to fail, as long as you learn from it and keep moving. And don’t be afraid to work hard and ask questions especially early on in your career. I learned so much about marketing in my first few years of my professional career (and still am) by asking questions, getting my hands dirty to really understand the foundation of a business, how it works, etc.
What’s a marketing initiative you’ve worked on recently that you’re particularly proud of?
We recently launched a campaign refresh of our SupersonicTMhair dryer, which was the first technology in our personal care category. It’s a big moment for Dyson because the campaign features a variety of models, influencers and real women with various hair types and needs that are relatable. This most recent launch stemmed from James Dyson’s desire to enable the Dyson SupersonicTMhair dryer to style better, while continuing to protect hair from extreme heat damage—irrespective to whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly or coily. It’s been exciting to see this come to life.
Photo: Courtesy of Create & Cultivate
Where do you go to get inspiration?
Inspiration comes from a variety of places and while that differs for everyone, based on the types of things I am interested in, I always look outside the industry I play in. Look at the world around you and what impacts you. That can come from magazines, social media, music, books, friends, and family.
Can you share one woman who paved the way for you to be where you are today?
My mother is the one woman that has paved the way for me to be where I am today. She had a successful 40+ year career in the beauty industry and has taught me so much both personally and professionally having raised two children as a single mother. I can confidentially say I would not be where I am today without her.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Focus on empathy and perspective as it allows you to see the big picture and understand decisions from all perspectives.
Up Next: 17 Small Home Office Mistakes to Avoid, According to 7 Interior Designers.
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We Take Self-Care Seriously—How the C&C Team Relax and Unwind After a Long Day
This story is in paid partnership with Diageo.
Progress over perfection. Ever heard of it? At Create & Cultivate, it’s one of the mottos we live by. In fact, we take it so seriously, that we even have it painted on the office kitchen wall. Whether it’s personal or professional, big or small, we believe the lessons lie in the journey, not the destination. While we love dreaming big and thinking of the full picture, we make sure to celebrate the little milestones along the way too because true success is the sum of all your small efforts, right?
As opportunities, responsibilities, expectations, and commitments stack up, so do our to-do lists. But that doesn’t mean we don’t love the hustle. Of course, we do. Just make the time to pause at each step so you don’t stretch yourself too thin. And there’s a myriad of ways you can do that. Our favorite? Celebrating the wins along the way by taking time for self-care such as applying a clay face mask, taking a bath, reading a book, or our personal favorite, cracking open a Smirnoff Spiked Sparkling Seltzer.
Because taking time out to relax and unwind—and getting in those eight hours of sleep a night—should be just as important as those to-do’s like creating a P&L or sending that client email. So, to help you get there, we tapped the shoulders of our very own hustlers, the team C&C, to ask how they unwind after a jam-packed day. C&C team pro tip: swap your glass of red for a low-cal alternative like our favorite Smirnoff Spiked Sparkling Seltzer for a guilt-free nightcap. For more pro tips and tricks, follow along to see how our team does self-care and be sure to scroll down to the end to make our exclusive drink recipes and say cheers to yourself for getting through another day!
Danielle Boyce, Graphic Design Intern
“I work two part-time jobs and have two side hustles so I never feel like I have an ‘end of the day.’ I have made boundaries like I can't work or use my laptop after I shower and do my skincare routine. I try and unplug at least half an hour before I go to sleep. But, I usually listen to a podcast or call my friends living in San Francisco for the summer. I like recapping my day with my favorite people, it always puts me in a good mood for the morning.”
Alyssa Sage, Marketing Manager
“How do I unwind? With a bubble bath and my fave book, wine, and candles.”
Nicole Povey, Coordinator
“After a long day, I love to wind down with a glass of Pinot Grigio and some bad reality T.V. If I’m not feeling the electronics, painting is my go-to for winding down and resetting.”
Dana Saperstein, Senior Event Producer
“I unwind after a long day by cooking. Cooking allows me guidelines that I can follow so I don't have to think too much. Chopping is like my meditation. I can zone out. It also provides a little bit of excitement because you never know how it's going to turn out!”
Dre Reyes , Senior Marketing Associate
"I like to unwind by cleansing my face, putting on a face mask and enjoying a glass of wine while I lounge on the couch in my comfy robe. To me, this is the ultimate form of self-care.”
Sacha Strebe, Editorial Director
“For me, unwinding is all about a long, hot, salt bath. There’s nothing quite like it for soothing aching bones, muscles, and to allow some time for your brain to digest the day, detach from the to-do list, and quietly meditate without screens or distractions. I just read that 1kg of pink Himalayan salt (has to be food grade) in a bath is a powerful detoxifier because it extracts the toxins out of your skin and tissues. It’s akin to soaking in an ocean of energy. The process is called dermal absorption because your skin soaks up the minerals from the water including calcium, copper, iodine, iron, magnesium, zinc and more. So, I’m hitting up my Amazon Prime account and having a few bags of salt delivered stat.”
Kylie Tansey, VP Sales
“My fiancé and I are learning to cook together. Cooking always seemed like a chore to us. Now that we have become a little more comfortable in the kitchen, it has become a way that we relax and catch up with each other after a long day. Cheesy as it sounds, I find that having something as simple as time together to look forward to at the end of the day makes even the hardest of days feel more joyful.”
Spice up your nightly self-care ritual with one of our favorite Smirnoff Spiked Sparkling Seltzer recipes below!
Spiked Piña Colada
Ingredients:
1 can of Piña Colada Smirnoff Spiked Sparkling Seltzer
1 oz. coconut cream
6 oz. fresh pineapple juice
1 cup of crushed ice
Directions: Combine all ingredients then blend until smooth. Add a fun toothpick umbrella and a slice of pineapple for optimal vacation vibes.
Raspberry Frozé
Ingredients:
1 can of Raspberry Rosé Smirnoff Spiked Sparkling Seltzer
1 oz. lemon juice
3½ ounces strawberry syrup
1 cup of crushed ice
Directions: Combine all ingredients then blend until smooth. Place blender container in the freezer for approximately 30 minutes for the best consistency.
A Day in the Life: Glitter Guide's Taylor Sterling Shares Her #1 Ritual for Success
It’s not as glamorous as you might think.
Ever wondered what people do at work? If you’re a voyeur like us, then you’ll love our series A Day in the Life where we get a real behind-the-scenes glimpse into the professional lives of CEOs, business owners, and entrepreneurs we admire. From their morning routine to the rituals that set them up for success and questions such as “do you ever reach inbox zero?” because we all want to know how to streamline our lives.
Photo: Emily Scott
In a media-saturated world, it can be hard to decipher the realness from the noise but there’s one site we always have bookmarked: Glitter Guide. From fashion to home décor, beauty and wellness, founder Taylor Sterling has always served up engaging, educational, and topical content we love—like this story about about the myth of “age-appropriate” clothing—and that’s something she, along with her digital lead, Samantha Welker has decided to shift her focus towards with the new site redesign.
Sterling and Welker both made a conscious shift to focus on the brand’s core values rather than what "performs" the best. “Our new motto is ‘we want hearts, not eyeballs’ and we hope our audience will connect with our new creativity-focused content,” Welker tells me. We can’t wait to see more. We are always so inspired by Sterling and the content she creates so we wanted to get a sneak peek into a day in her life.
Ahead, Sterling gives us a snapshot of her day, what it really takes to be a founder, and key advice to propel your career.
What does an average day in your life look like?
Most days aren’t all that glamourous. I wake up at 6 a.m. with the kids and get them ready for school and out the door. Then until about 3:30 I’m usually sitting at my desk working on assignments and having meetings. The rest of my day is dedicated to getting my kids from school, spending time with them and getting them ready for bed.
What time do you get up? What’s the first thing you do upon waking?
Usually it’s 6 a.m. First it’s a quick snuggle with the kids (who wake me up) and then I immediately get some coffee.
Are you a night owl or a morning person? When do you do your most important work and why?
Naturally I’m a night owl. Growing up I always felt the most creative and productive at night. However my husband is the opposite and he’s trained me to get to bed earlier. Also, since having kids it’s been crucial for me to change my ways. Now I’m most productive around 9 a.m.
What does your morning, pre-work routine look like? What rituals set you up for success?
This past year I’ve really slowed everything down and made more time for self-care. That means that in the morning after the chaos of getting the kids to school I come back home (where I work) and I spend about 30 minutes doing a speed clean of the house. I’ve found I work better when it’s tidy and I don’t feel anxious about having to clean it later. I usually listen to a podcast while I clean or some relaxing music. Then I try to fit in a quick workout. Usually something at home or a run. I usually start work around 9:45 a.m. after I have made time for these things that help me feel centered.
Photo: Emily Scott
Being a founder means you are wearing so many hats and across so many facets of the business. How do you manage your time effectively?
This used to be a huge struggle for me. I felt like I was doing everything and involved in everything. I started to burn out. We didn’t have good organizational systems. Once those were put into place and the entire team felt confident in their roles and obligations it freed us up and we weren’t juggling as much.
Do you ever reach inbox zero? How do you handle the constant influx of inquiries and communication entrepreneurs are so familiar with?
This is going to sound so bad, but I’ve become really lazy with my emails. I used to be addicted. I would always respond to everything I could. Now that my team isn’t on my emails much I can be better about batching. Some days I don’t even check it. You have to get comfortable with missing something. It’s really felt like a weight has lifted. I know that’s not for everyone, but it’s been a relief.
What are some work habits that help you stay healthy, productive, and on track to reach your goals?
Staying healthy and having good work habits is a huge priority. I want my team to know it’s something I value and I hope they will do the same. My team uses Asana and Slack daily and they have been game changers for us. I know that if I have a day where I can’t work as much, as long as I get my daily tasks done then it’s going to be okay. I carve out time for me and also my family. Work is something I’m passionate about, but at the end of the day it’s still work. My life is way more important.
When do you go to bed? What’s your “optimal” # of sleep hours?
Ideally, I like to be asleep by 10 p.m. to set myself up for success.
What’s the most rewarding part of your day?
I love days where I have taken care of my needs, had a productive work day and my family is happy. I always feel like I’m on top of the world when that happens. However, usually something in that mix gets thrown off.
When did you know you wanted to start your own company? What was your journey like?
I never really went into it thinking, I want to start a business. I just knew what I wanted to create and it happened to turn into a business. I think that’s the case for a lot of creative entrepreneurs. It’s almost better that I was naive and that I didn’t know what I didn’t know. I had to learn by doing. I’ve made so many mistakes over the past ten years. As painful as that is, it’s crucial. It’s how I’ve grown. I’m thankful for it.
Photo: Emily Scott
What advice do you have for aspiring female founders?
Always trust your gut. I’ve made the mistake of ignoring it before, but it never leads you astray.
What are some of the biggest lessons you learned along the way?
I think one big lesson for me is that you are going to have ups and downs. It’s natural. It’s how you handle those downs that are really going to define you. Don’t let them distract you. Stay focused but flexible and you can come back up again.
How do you combat the loneliness often felt by CEOs at the top?
Thankfully my team is so tiny that I don’t ever feel this way. I feel more lonely from us being a totally remote team. Using things like Slack, Google Hangout and having face-to-face meetings when we can really help.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
“Keep your blinders up.” This isn’t really the best advice, but it’s one I think of often. It’s a reminder that when you get distracted by what others are doing it can be a real downer. Stay positive and focus on what you love and things will often fall into place.
What’s the worst piece of advice you’ve been given?
I’m not sure I’ve ever had bad advice. It’s usually more that people sometimes don’t get my industry or my situations and give advice based-off their own experiences. You have to keep that in mind when asking people.
What are some exciting projects you’re working on this month? What are you most excited for in 2019?
Glitter Guide is about to relaunch our entire website. It’s getting a new look and will be much more user-friendly. With that we’re also changing a lot of our content. We want to connect to people’s hearts and tell stories that have meaning to us and those who we’re working with. We also want to explore creativity and how we can cultivate creative energy. I’m so excited for this new chapter.
Up Next: A Day in the Life: Inside the Cool and Colorful Life of Justina Blakeney of The Jungalow
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C&C Classifieds: Tarte Cosmetics, Pandora, Rent the Runway & More
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Download Alert: This Genius App Will Change the Way You Buy a Car (It's So Easy)
Say hello to Fair.
This post is in partnership with Fair.
Photo: Courtesy of Create & Cultivate
Making big decisions isn’t easy. Especially the ones that involve long term commitments—like picking a new home, selecting a new job, and buying a new car. These decisions hold a lot of weight because of their lengthy processes and the anticipation of commitment. Even if you’re not a “commitment-phobe”, there’s always a lot to consider before spending a significant amount of your hard-earned money.
If only the "big” decision-making processes were made easier, then the stress tied to them would lessen, and the barriers to entry would also be lowered—that’s the ideal combination, right? Well, in our quest to simplify, we came across a solution for one big decision we all dread: buying a car. Skip the fluorescently-lit car dealerships with their burnt coffee and long wait times—the answer is in the palm of your hand—say hello to Fair.
Fair is the new subscription service that is changing the way we buy cars. This easy-to-use app allows you to find the used car you’ve always dreamed of in one convenient app. You can buy a car without even having to leave the comfort of your couch and it takes the commitment out of the car-buying process (you can kiss car loans and leases good-bye!).
Fair’s version of car buying really lives up to its name. Now you’ll never be stuck with a car past its expiration date. Bottom line: you can get a car when you want, for as long as you want, and turn it back in at any time—no strings attached. Sounds too good to be true, we know.
But just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, we’re going to remind you that a Fair subscription includes a limited warranty, roadside assistance, and routine maintenance too. Is this deal not sweet enough for you? How about this: when you get a car to drive for Uber, you pay even less. Crazy right? Well, let’s take you through the app’s interface to show you how good life can be as a Fair user.
Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Download the app and pick your use preference
Step 2: Create your account and scan your driver’s license
Additional info like your social security number and proof of address may be necessary.
Step 3: Start browsing through cars
You can search through anything from price to brand and ❤️ your favorites along the way.
Step 4: Find the car of your dreams!
Once you’ve found the one, you can pick it up or even have it delivered to you!
Step 5: Drive worry-free and turn your car in whenever you’re done!
Car buying has literally never been so easy. Though it sounds too good to be true, it isn’t. Fair is a hot ticket item because of its convince as well as its trustworthiness. Try it yourself and see what all the fuss is about—you’ll thank us later.
From Scratch: How a Husband and Wife Team Ditched Their High Profile Careers to Start a Bespoke Olive Oil Line in the Desert
“Self-imposed boundaries are important.”
We know how daunting it can be to start a new business, especially if you’re disrupting an industry or creating an entirely new one. When there is no path to follow, the biggest question is, where do I start? There is so much to do but before you get ahead of yourself, let’s start at the beginning. To kickstart the process (and ease some of those first-time founder nerves) we’re asking successful entrepreneurs to share their story in our new series, From Scratch. But this isn’t your typical day in the life. We’re getting down to the nitty gritty from writing a business plan (or not) to sourcing manufacturers and how much they pay themselves, we’re not holding back. If you want to know how to start a business, you’ve come to the right place.
Photo: Jay Carroll / Wonder Valley
It’s not every day you hear about a career pivot like this one but when you do, it’s definitely an inspiring read. It makes us all ponder the possibility of a switch in gears and whether we’d enjoy it more or regret our decision. The good news is, all of the people we interview who’ve embarked on a second life are incredibly passionate and don’t have any anguish about their leap of faith. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. They couldn’t be happier.
Case in point, husband and wife team, Alison and Jay Carroll, founders of the super chic and delicious Wonder Valley olive oil. Jay is an artist and the former creative director at Levi’s while Alison was in advertising and PR previously to working in California olive oil industry. They fell in love with the desert town of Wonder Valley, about 160 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean and it’s where the idea for their heavenly small-batch olive oil line was hatched. In just a few short years, the line has become incredibly popular (they can’t keep up with demand) and they just launched face oil, body oil, and an oil cleanser.
Read on to hear more about their inspiring story and don’t give up that dream of turning your side hustle into your career.
Photo: Jay Carroll / Wonder Valley
Did you write a business plan?
My husband, Jay, and I started Wonder Valley five years ago without a real plan. We spent the first few years putting passion first into the brand, and are just now starting to put together a real strategy toward growing the business.
How did you come up with the name? What was the process like?
We started Wonder Valley with just the olive oil without the idea of doing much else to start. We had a lot of oil-centric brand names, but decided against it, which in hindsight I’m glad we weren’t too myopic—it gave us room to grow. Wonder Valley is a real place, about 30 miles east from where our home and shop are in the high desert of Joshua Tree, California. It is a far out town on the edge of a national park, marine base, salt flats and the Mojave desert—a limitless stretch of sand and imagination. The place is a muse but we’re not a literal representation of it. We wanted to create an imaginary world around our brand, not just singular products; so having it named as a physical place gives that sense of arrival.
What were the immediate things you had to take care of to set up the business?
We set it up as an LLC which I did through a small business clinic at a local law school. I recommend this as it saved money and I learned a lot in the process while also being able to work with rad undergrad law students. They also helped with a sellers permit. From there we built a site, set up social media, got a bank account and hit the ground running.
What research did you do for the brand beforehand? Why would you recommend it?
We did basic trademark, domain, and social media account searches to make sure we weren’t stepping on any toes. I didn’t spend too much time doing homework on what e-commerce platform was best or SEO or anything. From our perspective we had our first olive oil harvest that November and wanted to get it out in the world as quick as possible (since it is a perishable product). We launched a few weeks later in January.
I did take the time to talk to other small business owners and get tips on things like packaging resources, how to do your own fulfillment and eventually insurance policies. We’re so lucky to live in a time that setting up a small business has never been so easy or inexpensive.
“You cant (and shouldn’t) do it all yourself. Know the difference between working hard and working smart.”
How did you find the vendor that you use? Did you have any bad experiences? What did you learn?
We got into this business because of my background as the marketing director for the California Olive Oil Council; I oversaw the only professional taste panel in North America whose main function was to annually certify the 400 + producers in California as extra virgin grade or not, as well as industry advocacy and education. It was a wonderful experience and exposed me to the whole process of California olive oil; growing, milling, bottling facilities, packaging vendors, etc. I left that role with a rolodex of all the contacts I needed to get started and the advice of true experts in this field. Our miller is someone I met during that time and who really helped make this a reality.
“Ultimately, I want to hire people who are better than me so we can take this to the next level. ”
Did you self-fund the company? Did you raise seed money or initial investment money? Why/Why not?
We’re 100% self funded and we’ve used profits to double the production each year for the past five years. It wasn’t so much that I recommend this path or to conversely seek funding, but it’s just what we did. It certainly gave us freedom to do things the way we wanted to do them and to create out of passion not just focusing on the bottom line. As we’re hitting the fifth year and really starting to expand (we have a physical brick and mortar shop, we’re using a fulfillment center, our team is growing and our product line is expanding), I’m grateful that we’ve been such boot strappers.
It’s allowed me to actually do every role myself; shipping orders for five years, running our sales, bookkeeping, social media, wholesale management—you name it. So I know what our strengths are and where our opportunities lie to grow, and where best to delegate. We’ve been able to grow this business holistically because we’ve had our finger on the pulse the whole time.
How big is your team now? What has the hiring process like? Did you have hiring experience?
The core team is myself, my husband, and two part-time employees. We have dedicated freelance help for bookkeeping, marketing and design work, and now a fulfillment center. It’s challenging when you’re small and adding on a few key people—what I don’t want is for any one to feel overwhelmed by how much there is to do, or at worst, feel disempowered on how to help. I am crystal clear on what the role entails and what the pay is. I am clear on what our goals are for the upcoming calendar year and how I think they can contribute to that growth.
I also don’t expect someone signing on to solely aspire to being a shop girl or studio assistant forever, so I take the time to find out what their personal goals are, what their skillsets and interests are and give them room to take the reins a bit. Ultimately I want to hire people who are better than me so we can take this to the next level.
We’ve also made our hires by word-of-mouth or broadcasting on an Instagram post, which we were so pleased with the responses even in a small town. It helps to pool from people who are already excited about what we’re creating and want to be a part of it.
Photo: Jay Carroll / Wonder Valley
Did you hire an accountant? Who helped you with the financial decisions and set up?
That was my achilles heel for a while. I couldn’t find the right accountant and was being upsold on services I didn’t need. I have a great accountant now (who I found through another Instagram post asking for recommendations), who specializes in working with small businesses. I do the monthly bookkeeping and she does the quarterly and year-end filings but can take on more as we grow.
We use quickbooks, which I do like for its functionality for invoicing, P&L reporting, payroll and quarterly forms all in one. I also just have an old-school weekly sales report that I do myself every Monday since we started the company; I quantify our sales by channel and products, evaluate our traffic and analytics. This allows me to make informed decisions and to have strategy on whether it makes sense to spend more money to pursue trade shows, and events, what product categories to expand, or what retail markets to go after. What’s been invaluable is just dedicating an hour each week to really look at our numbers, and make really empowering decision-making.
What has been the biggest learning curve during the process of establishing a business?
You cant (and shouldn’t) do it all yourself. Know the difference between working hard and working smart.
How did you get retailers to start stocking your product? Were you told no? How did you handle that rejection? What advice can you share?
While working at the olive oil council, I saw an opportunity; I wanted to bring California olive oil to a whole new audience. So while we work with some excellent specialty grocers, we’ve carved out space where olive oil has never been before— in home good shops, museum stores, juice bars and Beauty Counter. We didn’t have big expectations at first and literally produced as much olive oil as we could store in our home office that first year—which sold out in about a month.
We’ve continually had a waitlist for wholesale accounts that are doubling production each year, and we’ve never been able to meet it. So that’s a good problem to have but still a challenge in its own. And sure, in that process, there’s been plenty of rejection. As with anything in life, don’t take it personally. Let it put fire under your seat to work harder on your elevator pitch. For some of our bigger accounts, I’ve physically knocked on doors with samples to close.
Do you have a business coach or mentor? How has this person helped? Would you recommend one?
I don’t have any one like this for me. I have a tremendous network of other small business owners many who I’ve met through participating in a bi-annual tradeshow, the Echo Park Craft Fair. They have all been great sounding boards to bounce ideas off of, ask advice on new retail markets, tradeshows, finding a good accountant or fulfillment center or all these common denominators as business owners.
How did you promote your company? How did you get people to know who you are and create buzz?
I went to college for marketing and worked in advertising and PR for years before working in the olive oil industry. My husband was also the creative director for Levi Strauss before starting Wonder Valley with me, so we had a leg up in terms of branding and marketing. Above all, we see the value in content, storytelling, and imagery so that’s a main focus. Things like SEO, media buys, social media algorithms make my eyes cross so that’s something we outsource since it is vital to promoting our company. A lot of our growth has been spending the time on social media content, leveraging good press, a strong stock list of retailers to help tell our story, and having a physical storefront all has helped spread the word.
At the end of the day, it’s our product that is the backbone of the company, to make something worth talking about and taking a photo of. A lot of consideration and immeasurable time went into designing that first bottle, getting the blend of oil and the harvest timing just right as well as my unshakable belief that good olive oil is a key ingredient to the Good Life; that it is a true superfood and fountain of youth ingredient.
What is one thing you didn’t do in the setup process, that ended up being crucial to the business and would advise others to do asap?
I don’t know if there was anything that dire that we missed in the beginning. I wish I found this accountant sooner, I wish I spent more time evaluating e-commerce options sooner, but it just was what it was. Not to say we had it all figured out off the bat, hardly. I just think there’s value in learning as you go and giving yourself room to make mistakes.
Photo: Jay Carroll / Wonder Valley
For those who haven’t started a business (or are about to) what advice do you have?
Owning a business is the most rewarding, creative, self-confidence boosting, non-stop, draining thing ever. I think there’s this notion that if I can just get it to this next level, or pay myself this salary, or hire a few more people it’ll be on autopilot and I can get a break. I’m only five years in but I haven’t found that to be the case. There’s an endless list of things to do and hardly enough people to do them, and that can translate to guilt or pressure and the business having a vampiric affect on your life.
Self-imposed boundaries are important, like I’m trying to tuck my phone away in the other room at the end of the day so my days aren’t bookended with emails and stress and deadlines when I wake up and go to sleep. I’m claiming those for my time to replenish the well, so to speak. I read morning and night and cook all our meals, I go outside and take a bath or meditate, walk the dog, catch up with my husband. These are the true job perks. Likewise, if you work with a spouse or friend or family member, it has its own challenges and the business can really steamroll the relationship if you’re not careful. Jay and I have made really formal job descriptions within the business so we’re not micromanaging each other, but instead working separately but in tandem. It’s a constant practice, but when I’m mentally off the clock, there is no more work talk. Happiness is the goal, after all.
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C&C Classifieds: Patagonia, Macy’s, The Shelf & more
Job hunting in LA or SF? New fopps at Patagonia, Macy’s, The Shelf & more.
These are 🔥, apply fast.
The Shelf - Remote
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Riley Rose - Los Angeles, CA
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Money Matters: New Eyewear Startup Shares the Top 3 Biggest Monthly Expenses
And why the founder doesn’t pay herself.
You asked for more content around business finances, so we’re delivering. Welcome to Money Matters where we give you an inside look at the pocketbooks of CEOs and entrepreneurs. In this series, you’ll learn what successful women in business spend on offices spaces and employee salaries, how they knew it was time to hire someone to manage their finances, and their best advice for talking about money.
Photo: Courtesy of Zak.
I’ve had 20/20 vision my entire life and despite regular visits to the doctor or dentist to take care of myself, eye care has definitely been pushed to the bottom of my to-do list. In fact, I’m ashamed to admit that I’ve never had my eyes checked and with my 40th approaching next year, I suddenly started to notice a shift in my sight. It slowly creeped up on me and for a long time I thought my eyes were just tired and dehydrated from staring at a screen all day (and they probably were). But after speaking with the founder of L.A.-based eye health brand, Zak., Kyly Rabin I soon realized that it could be more, and that, unfortunately, I’m not alone in neglecting my eye health.
It’s one of the reasons she launched Zak and it’s bricks and mortar store on the popular Fairfax street in West Hollywood (next to Jon & Vinny's, across from Canter's Deli, LA's most walkable block) along with her father, renowned optometrist Dr. Myles Zakheim. Despite nine out of 10 people agreeing that eye health is important, only half of them actually see a specialist or do anything about it and just “1% of people know that signs of serious conditions like thyroid disease, high blood pressure, autoimmune disorders and certain types of cancer can be detected through annual eye exams.”
So, Rabin and her father set about creating a new way of seeing *pun intended* the world of eye care. Their 360 approach covers the spectrum of eye health including exams with an on-site optometrist, and exclusive frames with same-day fabrication in their on-site lab, and even blue light lenses for screen time. Rabin hopes to disrupt the eyewear industry making eye health as routine as dental, body, and skin.
My personal experience at Zak was extremely positive. Every step of the examination process was explained to me so I felt comfortable along the way and in control of the care I was receiving. Turns out, I did need a mild prescription and my eyes were also dehydrated so the optometrist recommended a few drops I can use before bed and in the morning as well as some eye exercises to help with the computer glare and strain. I stepped out of the exam room and ordered my pair of Zak frames which will be made in store and shipped out to me (they arrive today!)—super simple and they only cost $125 with prescription too.
Naturally, I was intrigued to learn more about how Rabin launched their startup especially since this model hasn’t been been done before and there was no roadmap. Ahead, Rabin shares her financial journey, what she’s paying herself, her team, and their top three biggest expenses each month.
Where do you think is the most important area for a business owner to focus their financial energy?
Product, creative and team are all mission critical. Each area fuels the other. If I had to choose one area for Zak. it would be product—core product, and the goods or services you’re providing, is the backbone of your business and deserves the appropriate resources (both time and financial). You have to get that core product right first and everything else can follow.
What was your first big expense as a business owner?
Our largest initial expense was the design and build out of our brick and mortar space on Fairfax, Los Angeles. An elevated eye care experience is an essential part of our model and it was extremely important to showcase our aesthetic in a physical space that challenges the typically antiquated doctors office in both form and function. As one may expect, design, build, and investing in state-of-the art medical equipment are expensive, but in our case, necessary to nourish our brand and mission.
The second biggest expense was developing our in-house eyewear collection. Zak frames are designed to change the way you shop for glasses. We’ve streamlined the shopping experience so selection is finally easy to navigate while providing styles that function like your favorite white t-shirt/everyday uniform. Our styles are timeless, to the point, unfussy, and at an accessible price point, but not cheaply made. Finding the right partners and vendors to bring our high quality product to life took time (and money).
“We aren’t saving anything. Everything that comes in immediately fuels another area of the business in order to optimize growth.”
How did you decide what to pay yourself?
We are still a very new and currently self-funded business. Before taking the leap into all things Zak., I assessed my savings as I knew a salary wouldn’t be possible for at least the first two years without external investment. I’m not paying myself to ensure that every dime is funneled back into the business, which is necessary at this crucial stage of infancy.
How did you decide what to pay employees?
Our full-time team is made up of optometrists and opticians who power the brick and mortar space. We determined wages based on market value and operational excellence. We believe that investing in our team means investing in our growth. I’m interested in working with people who are smarter and more talented than I am and sometimes that means paying more than I’m comfortable with as I’m betting on the productivity and efficiency that the right team provides, which inevitably drives results.
What are your top three largest expenses every month?
Rent, payroll, and the bank loan.
How much do you spend on office space?
Our Fairfax location is our brick and mortar retail space, medical facility and office. It’s the hub of all things Zak and it comes with a hefty price tag—rent is 14% of our monthly gross.
How much do you spend on employee salaries?
We’re currently a very small team made up of full-time and part-time salaried and hourly employees. Our payroll is approximately 25% of our current monthly revenue.
How much are you saving? When did you start being able to save some of your income?
We aren’t saving anything. Everything that comes in immediately fuels another area of the business in order to optimize growth. Our projections anticipate a break even at the two year mark.
What apps or software are you using for finances?
We use a comprehensive all-in-one software that combines our POS with a fully integrated doctor system (EHR). All patient, retail and sales information live in the same place, which is extremely helpful for financial reporting, which we typically run ourselves.
Do you wish you’d done anything differently in your financial journey as a business owner?
All delays in the launch process were costly. In hindsight, more efficient decision-making and a clear establishment of roles would have expedited our opening. Delays in construction, delivery of product, and staff training resulted in increased expense.
Why should women talk about money?
Awareness. The more we know and share with each other about how we’re spending and what we’re making will allow for an equal playing field.
“Identify the areas to be scrappy versus when it’s worth spending.”
Do you have a financial mentor?
My dad. We are co-founders and both bring different skillsets to the business. He still owns/operates a large multi-office optometric practice in L.A. that he opened over 35 years ago with a bank loan. He is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to finances and specifically financial planning within the optical industry.
What is your best piece of financial/money advice for new entrepreneurs?
Identify the areas to be scrappy versus when it’s worth spending. It’s fundamental to be resourceful and do things on your own that can eventually be outsourced but it’s extremely important to have an understanding of when a spend is essential to your brand.
Up Next: "For 3 Years I Didn’t Pay Myself"—The Pai Skincare Founder Gets Real About Money in Business.
17 Small Home Office Mistakes to Avoid, According to 7 Interior Designers
Emily Henderson, Bobby Berk, and more help us make every square foot count.
Even if you don’t have your own business, the rise of flexible hours has more of us working from home. According to a new study by Bentley University, 77% of Millennials say that flexible work hours would make the workplace more productive for people their age. Either way, your work space enhances your creativity, productivity, and influences what you produce so it’s important to create one that suits you both personally and professionally.
Of course, since more people are renting now than ever before, we know that most people don’t have a lot of square footage to work with but size limitations shouldn’t restrict your creativity. So, we turned to some of our favorite interior designers to share the best small home office ideas along with the common mistakes people make and the quick fix to turn it around. Read on to turn your spare corner or nook into a cool small home office—here’s some chic office décor under-$100 to get your started.
Photo: Sara Tramp for Emily Henderson; Tessa Neustadt for Emily Henderson.
Emily Henderson, Interior Designer, TV Personality, and Founder, Emily Henderson
The Mistake: Not being creative with storage.
The Quick Fix: You don’t need to be tied to the standard desk and file cabinet combo. Instead, you could get a pretty credenza for all of your storage needs and then just have your pretty daily essentials on your desk.
The Mistake: Using boring work desks.
The Quick Fix: Don’t be afraid to use a regular dining table instead. This way your office will feel more open and you can place the desk anywhere in the room instead of dealing with hiding the “ugly side.”
Bobby Berk, TV Personality, Interior Designer, Founder, Bobby Berk.com
The Mistake: Don't forget to decorate.
The Quick Fix: Sometimes home offices end up being just that, an office but it doesn't mean that it shouldn't still feel inviting, warm, and interesting like the rest of your house. I love styling bookshelves with items that you typically wouldn't find like leaning art or a collection of decorative items amongst the books to break it up. I also always love to bring a live element into the space like a plant or tree to keep the air fresh and give it a bit of life.
The Mistake: The wrong office chair.
The Quick Fix: Your office chair doesn't have to look like an office chair. There are so many chairs out there that can double as an office chair that are aesthetically more interesting and might even be more comfortable and functional. Take a look at the padded dining chairs before you shop for office chairs next time.
The Mistake: Too much on the desk.
The Quick Fix: A messy desk means a messy mind. Sometimes all the clutter on your desk can be distracting so clear it off and keep out just the items that you use every single day. Everything else can go into a file cabinet or closed storage under the desk.
Photo: Claire Esparros for Tali Roth Design
Tali Roth, Interior Designer, Founder, Tali Roth Design
The Mistake: Not having enough closed storage.
The Quick Fix: Ensure your desk has drawers or at least a rolling one.
The Mistake: Having a desk in your bedroom.
The Quick Fix: It’s not good for the mind to see your work items in your sleeping space. Move your desk to a public space if you can or to another space in the home with low foot traffic.
Shannon Wollack and Brittany Zwickl, Studio Life.Style
Mistake: Putting too many pieces of furniture in a small space.
Tip to fix: “Try to narrow down your décor to just include items that serve a purpose. Get rid of anything that isn’t functional or inspirational.”
Mistake: Your space is cluttered.
Tip to fix: “Organization. Use visually appropriate bins or baskets to store your office necessities. They’re the perfect way to hide the less visually appealing aspects of your home while still keeping them in reach.”
Photo: Courtesy Studio. Lifestyle
Studio Gild
The Mistake: “You have basic desk accessories.”
The Quick Fix: “Select aesthetically pleasing office supplies to help make your work day feel a little more elevated and chic. For everyday necessities from paper clips and scissors, forgo big box office supply companies, in favor of artisanal makers with a design-forward approach like TOOLS to LIVEBY and Hay.” — Melissa Benham, Principal.
The Mistake: “Doesn’t feel inviting.”
The Quick Fix: “Bring some life and greenery into the space with real plants. Not only will it brighten up your work environment, but it will improve the air quality too.”—Kristen Ekeland, Principal, Studio Gild
The Mistake: You find yourself easily distracted
The Quick Fix: “Keep televisions and couches out of the office and stick to a neutral color palette. The less physical and visual clutter, the better you’ll be able to concentrate.”—Jennie Bishop, Principal, Studio Gild
Cortney Bishop, Principal, Cortney Bishop Design
The Mistake: Dull lighting.
The Quick Fix: Brighten up your office space and no doubt productivity will thrive. Think about different layers of task lighting. Besides just installing an overhead fixture, consider a desk lamp or wall sconces to further illuminate the room. And if you can find a lamp that also has USB outlets for your electronics, even better. I love eliminating extra clutter.”
The Mistake: Maximizing wall space.
The Quick Fix: “Go vertical. If you're tight on space, consider taking anything up your wall that will make the space more efficient. Peg walls, freestanding shelving, bulletin boards, calendars, even lighting, can be installed to free up space on the floor.”
Julie Massucco Kleiner and Melissa Warner Rothblum, Co-Founders, Massucco Warner Miller
The Mistake: Buying basic, dreary, office furniture, lacking in personality.
The Quick Fix: “We like to use desks that are a pretty style, even a table or console can be used as long as it’s around 30” desk height. Think outside of the metal/laminate desk: grass cloth, leather topped, mirror clad or lacquered are some of our favorites.”
The Mistake: Not adding color or pattern.
The Quick Fix: “Chairs are a great way to plug in a color or pattern you love. There are very few home offices that actually require a wheeled task chair so any chair that is comfortable for a dining table application is usually great as a desk chair in a home office too.”
The Mistake: Not adding the finishing touches.
The Quick Fix: “Don’t forget to use a few details that’ll make you smile when you’re in the space. We’ve hung vintage mirrors behind a desk (it doesn’t matter if your screen computer extends up to cover them a bit), include a favorite photo, or a desktop trinket that can hold paperclips, gather a few pieces you love and use them here.”
High Risk Hire: How to Interview While Pregnant
Because life is full of all kinds of bumps in the road.
Written by Arianna Schioldager.
Photo: Angelica Marie Photography
Looking for a job while pregnant may seem daunting, but don’t let that stop you. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Title VII bars discrimination in employment on the bases of race, color, sex, national origin, and religion. A little over a decade later, Title VII was amended to include the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, which prohibits an employer from refusing to hire a pregnant woman because of her pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition. Simply put, an employer may not refuse to hire a woman because she is or expects to become pregnant. Not to say that these refusals don’t still happen.
Looking for a job while pregnant is hard to hide. Unless you're in the first or early second trimester, it's pretty obvious when you have that baby bump. An employer doesn't have to ask, and no matter what the Pregnancy Discrimination Act states, as an interviewee you're a HRH. A high risk hire.
Hiring discrimination is very difficult to prove but to pretend it doesn't happen is turning a blind eye. So how do you address the elephant in the room? In the words of Harper Lee, "It's when you know you're licked before you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what," that's where the bold as brass boss in you lives.
FIRST THINGS FIRST
Never include a "disability" on your resume. Ever.
Next, before you interview, you need to ask yourself an important question: "CAN I DO THE JOB?" If the answer if yes, you should walk into that interview as confident as ever. Baby bumpin' or not.
WHEN THE RICH MAN ASKS YOU TO COUNT HIS SILVER...
Do you do it?
Because interviews are scarce and applicants are high, there is a reality to the fear that the employer has the power and you should concede to "illegal" questions. Nothing could be further from the truth. The ball, in an interview, is in both courts, especially if you are good at your job. You need work. The company needs someone skilled to fill the position.
By proving that you are the best person for the job regardless of physical condition. With every employee there is the risk that something unexpected could happen.
You will quickly find out what kind of company it is if you respond to an inappropriate question by addressing it as such, and looking the interviewer right in the eye.
Which is why you should also:
DO YOUR RESEARCH ON THE COMPANY AND MAKE SURE YOU WANT TO WORK FOR THEM
You deserve the job but does the job deserve you? There are questions you need to ask yourself before saying "I do" to an interview, or a company. Look at how the company treats women. There are plenty of companies who have no problem—as they shouldn't—with a pregnancy. The White House, for one. In 2015 the WH took an influential position on the issue of economic, family-friendly policies when they announced that State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki would replace the President's outgoing communications director. Psaki was pregnant at the time of hire.
There are companies most concerned with that first question you asked yourself: Can you do this job?
I was looking for a job while pregnant and was offered the position because the company recognized that my childbearing had no affect on how I could perform the requested duties.
That's not to say it's not terrifying and there is an extra layer of pressure. But don't let your fear win out over your skills. A smart employer will recognize your determination. In fact:
"Don't let your fear of interviewing while preg win out over your skills. A smart employer will recognize determination."
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USE PREGNANCY TO SHOW OFF YOUR STRATEGIC SKILLS
When you're not showing, the advice as to whether or not disclose your pregnancy is split. But when you are showing, it's best to address it head-on. Use the pregnancy to your advantage by showing your potential employer your planning skills. Outline your flexibility. No matter what, the decision to interview while pregnant is brave and shows that you are capable of making bold business decisions, as well as a work ethic that should be admired.
Keep that in mind when you walk in those doors.
Oh and to also keep in mind: The United States is currently the only developed country that does not offer government-sponsored paid maternity leave. #Facts.
About the Author
Written by Arianna Schioldager, Director of Content and Marketing at Girlgaze Inc. You can find her on IG @ariannawrotethis and more about her on this site she never updates www.ariannawrotethis.com