Tyfani's Treats: Detroit's Sweet Tooth Solution

What sparked your idea to start The Special Treats?

I wanted to come up with homemade snacks for my children that had less fat, calories and sugar than the popular snacks at the local grocery store.  I also wanted to make a statement.  Cake is a traditional party snack, but I believe cupcakes filled with fruit are a better look, and a healthier choice.

Explain, in detail, what types of treats you offer, if you cater small or large events (or both), and how your clientele is acquired?

Tyfani’s Treats specializes in Chocolate Dipped Fruit, Infused Strawberries, Pineapple Turtles, Cupcakes, Drunken Gummy Bears, Muffins, Fruit Salad, and Delivery & Catering.  We welcome same day orders and offer custom designs. Our clients are accumulated by use of Facebook, Instigram, local churches and word of mouth.

Do you ever get "weird" requests for items?

We don’t get any weird requests; however, our most popular request is Inserted Strawberries and Vanilla Cupcakes, which are also our best selling products.

 

What goals do you have for your business?

Our primary goal is to maintain a healthy relationship with our customers, and to keep providing quality services while giving back to the community and creating jobs for young adults once we expand.

Is there anything that makes you different, in your opinion, from other small businesses under the same industry?

The one thing that makes “Tyfani’s Treats” different from other businesses in this field is that our guarantee is flexible to ensure our customer satisfaction, based on their experience with us.

Have you had any professional difficulties that you've learned from? Explain.

There are a lot of professional difficulties.  Sometimes products are damaged, delivered late or missing.  I’ve learned to improvise with what I have and make it look great.  The show goes on.

Are you able to bake without having your family interrupt your creative flow?

Everyone in my home, from my husband to my daughters, knows that I love what I do.  They are my tasters and they tell me exactly what they think.  They also help with promotion and production.  They are really a big part of the company.  They make it easier.

Share one meaningful word with an aspiring entrepreneur.

Ambition

 

 

Tyfani Haynie is to proud owner of Tyfani's Treats. Custome Ordering, Delivery and a 24 hour hotline is available.  Connect with her on Facebook at Tyfani's Treats or call 586-404-3174 to place your order.

SOULutions Mobile Spa: Detroit's destination for relaxation

Our Interview with Char Sloan, Owner of SOULutions Mobile Spa

 

What inspired you to create the SOULutions Mobile Spa?

SOULutions Mobile Spa started as a vision many years prior to me actually starting the business. I have always been drawn to being of service to others to make them look or feel better.  I became interested in Massage Therapy after doing some research on the healing benefits of Massage & Bodywork. A few years before I actually enrolled in school I would read & study articles in relation to this profession. In 2007 I took the 1st step by enrolling in a Therapeutic Massage Program at Irene's Myomassology Institute located in Southfield, MI who founder was the late Natural Health master Irene Gauthier. This was one of the best experiences of my life! I not only learned how I can assist people with their aches & pains It personally gave me a greater inner peace & feeling of well-being. I am a proud graduate with the professional title of "Myomassologist" Which means I am trained in different modalities of Therapeutic Massage, Energy Healing, and Holistic methods of healthcare that includes natural herbs and aromatherapy.

 How many years has your company been in existence?

Because I am very ambitious I actually started my company while I still was a student! In May 2008 I began the planning and research of having a Mobile Spa service. My goal was to bring the relaxation to service private clients, corporations, as well as offer Spa Parties.

How is your business registered (i.e., Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, LLC) and why did you choose one over the others?

In the beginning I started off with a partner and we were hired to do 2 events before graduation in September 2008, One private party and one corporate event! Currently I am the Sole Proprietor/CEO Of SOULutions that provides on-site relaxation services throughout Metro Detroit.

 

 

What kind (if any) problems do you deal with in the daily operation of your business?

I would not say that I face "Daily Problems" in my business but there are ALWAYS challenges that can and will come. There are days when I can be discouraged but for only a few minutes! When you have a passion for something it will outweigh frustration.

Before starting your business, did you have a business plan?

I did not have a traditional business plan when I first began my business, More like a vision board along with a lot of research on the industry. I believe as a small business I have the advantage of developing a relationship with my clients and offer them a more personable experience.

As a small business owner, do you have any advantages over large business or corporations? If yes, why or why not?

I've heard many times from clients who have experienced services from a larger Spa's that the customer service that I am able to offer is better because people get to know me, this makes my clients more at ease.

What advertising methods do you use, if any?

My very 1st form of advertisement was getting a professional website done along with quality business cards. It was important to me then and now to present my company in the very BEST light that I can. Being a small business does NOT mean you should look like a struggling start-up! Because I do not necessarily have the larger budget as a larger company I have used less-expensive methods of advertising that has worked in my favor. Social media platforms, Cross promoting with other businesses to do link exchanges on our websites are just to name a few. I have also had a feature article offering relaxation tips in HER Detroit Magazine, As well as being a guest speaker at a Women Entrepreneurs Organization.

What advice would you offer to anyone who is thinking of starting a business of their own?

My advice for anyone wanting to start their own business would be to carefully weigh what you have a PASSION for. I like the advice of Mogul & Entrepreneur who I admire Russell Simmons & what he says about it which is ask yourself "What is it that I would do even if I wasn't getting paid??" That would be considered your gift to the world, as you share your gift success is sure to follow. For me it is providing a healing touch. Yes I work for financial gain, But I also donate my time to charities because I love to share my gift with others. SOULutions Mobile Spa has been providing Massage Therapy and express body treatments since 2008, with the goal of expansion in 2013.

For further information about the owner and her business you can visit http://www.Charsloan.info and also check out http://www.SOULutionsSpa.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shatarra Shazier: Supermodel on the Rise

There’s always that one person in the family who is distinct from all the others. On March 29, 1994, the Shazier family welcomed their newcomer. Shatarra Shazier was born at Hutzel Hospital in Detroit, MI. Her mother, Ericka Shazier, knew from birth that her daughter was going to be an extraordinary child. She was Ericka’s only child so this made her even more special. Ericka had no idea what she was in for.

 

 

As a toddler, Shatarra loved the art of music. Aaliyah was one of her favorite artists. Not only did Tarra like to sing her music, she loved to dance to it also. By the age of 7, her mother had recognized her talent and her passion for dance. Immediately, Ericka started searching for a dance school for Tarra to attend. Ericka knew that this would require a lot of time and money. Luckily she wasn’t alone. Ericka had been dating Juan Willis since Shatarra was 6. He did a lot for Tarra and took care of her as if she was his own. For this, Shatarra looked at him as her father and had appreciated everything he did for her. While Ericka was still on her search, Tarra was in grade school being a bookworm. She attended Carleton Elementary School where she excelled in every subject. It was like schoolwork came easy to her. As soon as she would get home, she’d do her homework and head straight outside. School was never a problem for her and her straight A report cards proved just that. Her teachers and her family couldn’t be more proud of her.

                At age 8, Tarra had begun dancing with Passions Community Dance House. Her first instructor, Cydara White, taught the hip hop class. She was a very unique dancer and Tarra had hoped to become as good as her one day so she practiced and worked really hard. Tarra earned her spot in the front of every dance. When her mother was late picking her up, she would sit in the adult practices, learn their dance, and practice with them. That’s when Cydara had perceived Tarra’s talent. After one year of dancing with the company, they wanted her back. They offered her a scholarship that would pay for some of her uniforms for the next year.  This news had the Shazier family ecstatic. In her second year of dancing with Passions, Tarra had noticed more people and more instructors. She now had a teacher for ballet, tap, and modern jazz. Of course she had excelled in these classes too and was placed in the front for every performance. By age 10, she was given the opportunity to audition at Marygrove College. There was going to be a big performance in the summer and Cydara wanted her to be in it. She was never nervous about meeting or performing in front of new people. She had performed in front of large crowds and small crowds from Cobo Hall to school talent shows. When she performed in front of the judges they fell in love with her immediately. They sent her a letter letting her know that they wanted her to attend the rehearsals. Unfortunately, her family couldn’t afford what they were asking for. This didn’t stop her from dancing though.

                When Shatarra was 11, she performed at Marygrove College for the last time with Passions. Cydara was going to be moving to L.A. soon to pursue her own dreams. Everyone felt like this was the end, but God had a plan for Tarra so to her this was only the beginning. In 2005, Tarra had started going to church with her Grandma, her aunt, and her cousins. After two weeks of attending church, Tarra decided to give her life to the Lord and become a member of Samaritan Missionary Baptist Church. She was excited about this so right away she joined every ministry she could. She joined the choir, the dance ministry, and even the usher board. This may have seemed like a lot for a 12 year old but it was what Shatarra wanted to do. She had a passion for dancing and singing, and didn’t mind serving those who needed help. Tammie Pinkston was Shatarra’s dance instructor at church. She was very versatile and every dance she created told a story. Tammie hadn’t come up with these exclusive ideas herself though. She looked to her dancers often for their opinions and Tarra was always one to give her input. That’s why every concert was a success. Eventually Tammie left, but the dance ministry is still going on with a wonderful new instructor. If you know Shatarra, you know she didn’t just stop there.

When Shatarra was in high school she was very athletic and showed this by participating in sports like cheer, basketball, track & field, and dance. Her motivation was her family. They supported her in everything. There were a couple of times though, when she couldn’t participate because of her grades. She decided to get that together first because she didn’t like the feeling of being left out. Shatarra began her senior year cheering but soon left to dance for basketball season. At the end of the basketball season the cheer and dance teams united for the first time in Harper Woods history, to perform for the last home game. It was a success and Shatarra couldn’t have been happier. Her senior year was rocky but she stuck it out and graduated with a 3.2 GPA. Even then she wasn’t done learning. Over the past summer, Tarra kept busy by attending a machinist training program through Focus Hope. She was the youngest and only girl in her class and that motivated her even more to finish. Tarra was well liked by the staff and the students there. She got to work on many different machines, learned how to use different measuring tools, how to read and make blueprints, and how to write programs. Her class had started off with 26 people but only 12 graduated. Shatarra was one of the dozen to receive her certificate. Soon after, she was on a search for a job in the CNC field. While waiting to hear from employers, her mother had informed her about a casting call for a fashion show. Shatarra had never modeled before but she thought this would be an amazing experience so she gave it a shot. She had no idea she would be chosen to walk in the Glitz & Glam fashion show. When she told her family they were all excited and couldn’t wait to see her. None of this would have been possible without them.

 

Glam House Productions partnered with Detroit CEO Magazine to offera great incentive for models who were chosen to participate in the 2012 Glitz & Glam Fashion event at the Masonic Temple in Downtown Detroit.  For the model that sold the most tickets, a reward of a full page feature in Detroit CEO Magazine (online) was offered to the winning model.  Not only did Shatarra win our hearts, but the hearts of those in attendance of this years exclusive fashion event! (photo credits: Vince Hollaway, Pearl Magazine)

 

                Shatarra will be 19 next year and has already accomplished so much. She’s danced and sang in front of many people, graduated high school, graduated from a CNC machinist training program, and walked a runway as a supermodel. She has received many awards, trophies and medals for her athleticism and outstanding achievements. She plans to further her education and start college in January at Henry Ford, majoring in engineering. For Shatarra, this is only the beginning of her adventure to the top. She has many hopes of becoming successful. One of her mavorite music quotes are a representation of her awesome life thus far, “Dreams are hopeless aspirations in hopes of comin’ true. Believe in yourself, the rest is up to me and you” –Lisa “Left Eye” Lopez.

Honey attracts more EVERYTHING!

As we come to the close of 2012, we can't forget how we've been impacted by Detroit's "sweetest" lady, Tamara Sanders Dew, owner of HoneyDew Fabulous!.

Though possibly unaware, Tammy has impacted the lives of many with her eccentric personality, love for family, support of fellow entrepreneurs and passion for highlighting the greatness of Detroit.  Great is the person that shows tangible evidence of all things professed, and Tammy Dew definitely mirrors greatness. 

Tammy is a "Jill-of-all-trades".  HoneyDew Fabulous! encompasses her God-given natural talent of being multi-dimensional.  Her company includes services such as artisan coordination for local events, fashion styling, image consulting and modeling.  From our personal experience with contracting her for services, she is the epitome of poise, iconic style, charm and passion for her craft.  We salute, support and endorse you!

 

For more information on HoneyDewFabulous!, email honeydewfab@gmail.com or call

 313-986-1124

Glitz & Glam 2012=Amazement

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Glitz & Glam 2012 Fashion Show

Presented By:  Glam House Productions

November 24, 2012

Venue: The Masonic Temple, Downtown Detroit 

 

Photo Credit: Robert Deane

 

The 2012 Glitz & Glam Fashion Event can be summarized in one word.  Amazing.  Fashion enthusiast from all over the Metro Detroit area were witness to one of a kind creations by powerhouse designers/boutiques and  including  B-Flyy Cretions, Camille Jeanay, Dianne Berry, Rinaco Styles, Unique Lady Boutique (Ferndale), Wooden Hangers (of Royal Oak), Louvenia Curves and Karen Mccallum.  Local Media were in the building to capture phenomenal photographs and take copious notes to communicate the level of professionalism displayed by Jewel Estes, CEO of Glam House Production, and her experienced staff.

Photo Credit: Robert Deane

 

One of the treats that the audience got to enjoy was the 10yr old model phenomenon Amani Cooper.  She was the perfect muse for the designers that she had the opportunity to model for.  Amani displayed comfort on the runway that is hard to capture from even the most seasoned model.

Photo Credit: Jason Ramon

 

Paul Mitchell School of Beauty was the major sponsor for Glitz & Glam 2012.  As a partner of Glam House Productions, the wonderful staff of Paul Mitchell devoted many hours of talent and excitement to making the models look awesome, as they provided hair and make up looks.  Another contributor to all things glamorous was Bella Artistry of Novi, MI.  They were responsible for the make up looks that coincided with the opening of the show, collaborating with Ms. Nneka Jackson, owner of  B-Flyy Creations. 

Photo Credit: Jason Ramon

 

 

We were honored to be in attendance for THE fashion event of the year, with early anticipation for Glitz & Glam 2013. Next year's event is sure to be over the top, and you don't want to miss it. For more on Glam House, you can find the on the web at www.glamhouseproductions.com or contact this company via email at info@glamhouseproductions.com. Follow Glam House on Twitter @GlamHouseLLC and connect on facebook www.facebook.com/glamourosity. 



Untitled & Underrated..An Inside Look at Detroit Fashion

By: Tasha "The Fashionista" Robinson

 

 

Twenty-four year old fashion designer Jaiden Shepard (Detroit native), and twenty -seven year old Rondregus Underwood  a model/stylist (originally from Alabama) set out to change the way critics viewed Detroit fashion and bring in support for future fashion shows from Detroiter’s. They came up with  “UNTITLED” which was an exclusive, uniquely formatted fashion show, aimed at celebrating Detroit’s distinguished in fashion, as well as others outside of Detroit connected to fashion. The first show was Friday October 19, 2012 at The International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit. Jaiden hand picked seven designers and each designer was allowed to have only three models.

Jaiden and Rondregus wanted the show to be different.  The designers displayed detailed work, as professional fashion was the main focal point.

On this night they brought New York to Detroit, transforming The International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit into a royal themed setting with a live band and singers to set a very intimate fashion ambiance. The designers that were blessed to be part of such a powerful show included Sansa Sanyika, Nova Brown, Trenese ‘hearts’ Collection, Cheire Jewelry House (from Cleveland, Ohio), Stef-n-Ty Dickey (Stephanie Dickey), and of course Jaiden Shepard with his Vintage Ties by Jaiden Collection. I also had the honor of showcasing my brand Ca’esha London (saysha london) with my version of an African Queen theme. The show was professional, the designers, makeup artist, photographers, models, vendors, musicians and the ushers all did an awesome job.

    

“UNTITLED” runway fashion show breathed life back into Detroit’s fashion world with nothing but great reviews from those that were present . Jaiden Shepard’s segment was last. I got chills, as I heard a few other on lookers saying the same, as the musicians played music and sang. Jaiden set on top of the runway with a King’s crown on while twenty models walked  the runway in his vintage tie collection.

 

This show gave fashion in the City of Detroit hope for growth and longevity.

 

 

Behind The Lens

 

 

 

Our Interview with Calvin McDaniel, Sr.

 

Owner of CC Photography Enterprise, LLC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There are many different photography professionals throughout Metro Detroit.  We chose to interview Mr. McDaniel because of his dedication to his craft, admirable values and talent for capturing art from behind the lens.  Here in this candid discussion, you will get to know more about him, and some of his work. 

 

 

 

DCEO:   Who is Calvin McDaniel?

CM:       I am a lover of Christ, a husband (for 31 years), a father (of two young men, one is a graduate of Michigan State University, the other, a Senior at Saginaw Valley State University).  I am with family values, and I am a photographer.  I love to take/create images that will be memorable for a long, long time.

DCEO:   How did you decide to start in the photography business?

CM:        I developed a need to have a camera in my hand based on having two boys, who were always very athletic.  Even before they became athletic though, I just felt the need to document their lives through photos.  Just having them around and seeing them grow into men catapulted me into wanting to make a profession out of photography.

DCEO:   Is there any additional motivation behind starting CC Photography Enterprise, LLC?

CM:      The desire to be an independent business owner, free from being under the thumb of someone I’m “employed by”.  I had my own landscaping business for about 10 years, and the freedom to go by my own schedule was very attractive to me.  Though I love that ideal, that (landscaping breaks the body down after a few years.  I’m striving to accomplish that feeling again with my current business venture.  I haven’t gotten there yet, but through lots of prayer, family support and continuing education.  I’m hopeful that the freedom, once again, will become a reality.  I have the desire to make CC Photography Enterprise, LLC my sole livelihood.

DCEO:   What challenges do you face working a regular 9-5 AND operating a photography business?

CM:        It’s difficult to do so.  I desire to shoot 24/7.  I don’t currently have the opportunity to develop a specific genre of photography because I’m not in the position to shoot the way I would like, in reference to frequency.  Having a 9-5 limits me, but also inspires me.  It creates an increased desire to build my business to consistent and sustainable profitability. 

 

 

DCEO:   What are then pros and cons of being a business owner in Metro Detroit?

CM:       The Metro Detroit area is beautiful.  There are lots of different backdrops to use.  Location shooting in the area is awesome!  As a bus driver for SMART, I’m all over the place.  The pros are being able to find those unique areas to shoot in.  As far as cons are concerned, based on the economy, people just don’t have the wherewithal to be able to afford a personal or private photographer.  You can try to tailor packages of photography work that is affordable, but on the backside of that, you’re not making a lot of money, so one has to have a love for their craft.  I shoot a lot of times for little or nothing, first of all just to be able to shoot and secondly to generate some revenue.  If the economy ever does turn around, then there won’t be any cons.  People will be able to afford a good photographer that loves doing what they’re doing and is going to give them the best product possible.

DCEO:   Do you self-market your business, or do you use an outsourced medium?

CM:        I do self-market.  Social media sites such as Twitter/Facebook prove valuable to display my work so that people may see it.   I have my own website, and I have done some smaller scale advertisements, but at this time, it’s not practical for me to spend a lot of money to advertise when social media sites work just as well, especially when I don’t yet have the revenue coming in from the business.

DCEO:   What type of support system do you have?

CM:        My wife is my biggest supporter.  When I decided to go take the step out into photography, we sat down and talked about it.  She knew I loved photography, but stepping out as a business was something totally different.   Photography equipment is not cheap, but after talking about it, we decided to take a leap of faith and see where the Lord would lead us.  I get a lot of support from my church family and immediate family.  Surprisingly, I get a lot of support from other photographers in the Metro Detroit area.  I don’t consider myself to be the best photographer in Detroit, or Michigan for that matter, but the accolades from others in the industry motivate one to want to work that much harder to improve their craft.

DCEO:   Do you feel that, because you are fairly new to the scene, that there are those that think your intention is to step on some toes?

CM:        I haven’t really experienced that, however, I do believe, to some degree that there probably is a competitive thing going on in the industry.  There might be those that want to know “who is he”, “why is he at this or that event”.  I don’t feel that any photographer should by threatened by another photographer.  Whatever your niche is or whatever you do, you should do it to the best of your ability.  If you are sincere and humble about what you do, whether there are 10 photographers in Detroit or 1000 photographers in Detroit, people will appreciate your individual work, and you don’t have to worry about stepping on somebody else’s toes.

DCEO:   Do you maintain a professional atmosphere with your subjects?

CM:        Yes.  I like to have fun during my sessions, and when I shoot with models specifically, I try to make them as comfortable as possible.  I like to build a rapport with anyone before we even shoot. In our pre-shoot discussions, I like to disclose that I am a married man, and that my only desire is to capture your image.  You can help me get to where I want to go, and I can help you get to where you want to go, and that’s only by you being in front of the lens and me being behind it.

DCEO:   Do you believe in mentoring?

CM:        Actually I talked to my pastor on a couple of different occasions about implementing a program at my church.  Specifically, I want to be able to take a couple of kids out who are interested in photography, learning about the art of it, and just allowing them to shoot.  I want to teach them how to create an image, how to compose it, and just teach them some of the things that I’ve learned in the industry.  Though  I haven’t learned everything there is to know about photography as of yet, I am interested in sharing the things that I do know to a child whose eyes light up when they see a camera.

DCEO:   Do you have any aspirations for expanding the business?

CM:       I kind of have an itch for videography.  I want to learn the ins and outs of filming.  I’ve had different ideas about doing short films.  Another idea that I’ve had is to do a short film with the children of my church that would teach them how do produce a film from beginning to end.  A studio is probably one of the next most important things for me.  Having a studio would just add to my creative juices and allow me to be “Dr. Frankenstein”

DCEO:   What advice would you offer to up and coming photographers?

CM:       Go back to school.  Learn what photography is.  Study other photographers because you can learn from them.  I personally marvel at the work and techniques of other photographers because some of their images are stunning, and I wonder,  'how did they do that'?

DCEO:   Are your rates fair?

CM:        Yes.  I try to make it as affordable as possible.  It’s absurd to me to charge a family $200-300 for family photos.  In order for me to generate business, I have to be fair.

Calvin McDaniel can be reached via Facebook at Calvin McDaniel Sr., on Twitter @ShutterbugMcD , and his website is www.ccphotographyenterprisellc.com. 

 

 

 

Community Talk with Erroll L. Bomar, III

 

Community Talk w/ Erroll L. Bomar, III (Ambassador of Y.U.P. Connect)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What sparked the idea for YUP Connect?
 
 YUP Connect came out of a desire to bring the city that I live and work in closer together. The vision for YUP Connect is to become a voice of the community by combining individuals who have a desire to improve not only themselves but the communities that they live and work in. The most important piece to the YUP Connect network is the Five Core Tenants: Unity, Integrity, Consistency, Efficiency, and Community. These tenant set YUP Connect apart YUP members identify and operate with them in mind on a daily basis.

 

Tell us something about Erroll Bomar III, and why you chose the title of "Ambassador".

  I'm a Native Detroiter born and raised on the West Side & currently living in Rosedale Park. I love MY city this will always be home to me. I do love to travel and look forward to purchasing a second home in Florida or maybe Puerto Rico. I selected Ambassador because I am a representative for YUP Connect. It is a company that is all about the people. The Ambassador represents a Nation & Nation is defined as a community of people who share a common language, culture, ethnicity, descent or history...THATS YUP Connect all day long.

What are the goals that you would like to accomplish with your organization?

Ultimately to be a key player among entrepreneurs, small business, toast makers, and all young professional. YUP Connect is just not just a business it’s a lifestyle, it’s a statement that say YES I AM YOUNG...YES I AM URBAN...& YES I AM PROFESSIONAL! The YUP’s the game changers of our society and our time. Just look at the increase of small businesses or young wealth that has spread across our country within the last 5-7 years.

Is there anything unique to how you're doing things? What's your approach?

My approach is personal, Grass Roots. YUP Connect is a company that is created and sustained by the culture and people that we serve. I try to embrace the idea that simple, personable and entertaining are the three key ingredients to building a successful customer base.

Tell us about your thoughts on our local community. Is there anything in the news (or not), for whatever reason, that you want to share your thoughts on?

For me, the biggest think I can point out is the "BUZZ". I encourage anyone who has not done so to take a moment and visit downtown on a weekday in the summer during lunch time. There is an energy that is almost palpable. Detroit is on the rise and the ones driving are the 25-40 something professionals.


How do you envision YUP Connect to grow in the future?

As big as the staples in every major urban city, just like a YMCA or community center. YUP Connect will become a place you can go to for resources, information and simply an enjoyable time.

 You can find out more about Y.U.P. Connect on the web at www.yupconnect.com. Connect with Erroll L. Bomar, III on Twitter @YUP_Connect or call 313-583-YUP1

The Importance of Balancing Your Life

As I write this post, I can assure you that I've always been able to give good advice, but i've never been able to take my own.  Now I type (on a freshly disinfected keyboard) from the sidelines with Pneumonia.  Whether you own a business, or work for someone else, i'm sure you can relate to the imposition of being ill  and not being able to get as much done as you would like.

This is especially true for me, as I own two businesses.  Between article and advertisement deadlines for a new magazine, to having clients with upcoming events that I have to deliver for, i am literally cringing with having to jump back in on overdrive after i'm well.  That same "overdrive" is what got me into this mess in the first place.  I would make a habit of working on projects until the wee hours of the morning, just to take a 30-45 minute "power nap" and start all over with pushing myself to the limit.  This, for various reasons, is unhealthy for anyone.

According to a Harvard University Sleep Deprivation Study, harmful effects include increased blood pressure, impaired control of blood glucose and increased inflammation (among many other risk factors) http://healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/healthy/matters/consequences/sleep-and-disease-risk.

We all have had moments where we are convinced that "pushing ourselves" will help eliminate things off of our to-do list much faster.  While this may be true in most cases, getting it done faster is not worth the risk of your good health.  Additionally, sleep deprivation and illness puts your family under unneccessary pressure, and ultimately catagorizes you as one that does not prioritize properly.

Make it a priority to study time management, and put into practice what works best for you.  If you don't, your family AND your business will suffer from the imbalance of your life.

Are Your Intentions Aligned With Your Actions?

There are so many people who claim to want a better Detroit.  Many make impressive social media proclamations, settle on a "cause" for a short time and then it's on to the next "big thing" that solidifies being a follower versus a leader.

 

 

For example, how many people say that they plan to vote, but don't even have a voter registration card?  How many people complain about the State of The City, but have never attended a Town Hall Meeting or written a letter to one of our local politicians?  For that matter, do you even know who to contact for various concerns? How many of our "famous" or "infamous" peers do everything that they know how to uplift our neighborhoods, instead of just complaining about what those in office aren't doing? These questions were posed to make you think about your position when it comes to Detroit...to challenge you about why you think or feel as you do.

 

A poll commissioned by the Detroit News and funded by the Thompson Foundation reports that 40 percent of Detroiters plan to leave in the next five years.  On the surface, there is nothing wrong with that.  People relocate for many reasons.  The underlying issue with that, if this "poll" were to be true, is what did you do to improve the things that impacted your life as a Detroiter while you were a resident?  Sure, there are things that are out of your control, but there are also things that could have been influenced by you.  If you had concerns with the Detroit Public School System, did you take the time to personally address them and facilitate change from a parental perspective versus removing yourself and your children from said "problem"?  If your issue is a lack of jobs, did you consider thouroughly that you have inner marketable talents that only need guidance, thus, attempting entrepreneurship?  Now, please understand that not every one is cut out to be a business owner, the example provided is to shed light on the fact that not everyone exhausts all of their options before giving up.

 

The hard truth is, there are so many opinions about what could be different about Detroit.  I agree with a few of those opinions.  What's different for me is, I'll do my part to change what I can within my power, and make sure that those that are in high positions of authority hear from me via single letter or petition, so they can do their part.  We have power as citizens.  It's time for an alignment that forces a collaboration between what we say, and what we do.

Detroit Glamour Icon, Jewel Estes

 





 



 

 

Though there are many fitting words to describe Jewel Estes, there is one that most of her fashion colleagues can agree on: GLAMOROUS.  Thus her company, Glam House Productions,(www.glamhouseproductions.com) is centered on that very endearment.  Any of the many illustrious events that she has brought to life throughout the Metro Detroit area since 2011 have involved some the fashion elite of Michigan.  She has even co-produced the Michigan Grand Opening Event for World-Renowned Haute Couture Clothier Saiid Kobeisy (www.Saiid-Kobeisy.com), a Lebanon native.  The Troy, Michigan Saiid Kobeisy Showroom is the only one in the United States.

 

 

 

 

 Jewel says, “I am elated to proclaim that one never experiences an Event like that of Glam House Productions.  I’m grateful for the reception that my peers have given me, and I will always make sure that there is value, diversity and glamour involved in all of my events.”

Her account is perfectly accurate.  From the local and international celebrities that enjoy these soirees, to the décor and professional staff, a Glam House Productions event is one that you surely don’t want to miss out on.  Detroit has certainly welcomed the elegance and class that encompasses this Fashion Force.

Mrs. Estes’ personal brand tagline of Innovator|Visionary|Philanthropist is a very suitable definition of her commitment to quality, personally and professionally.  She has made a success out of the Glam House Empire utilizing sophistication and allure.  She has visualized the growth of the Glam House brand to include the fashion of an iconic designer.  Plus, she has gracefully given back to the community through a plethora of financial sponsorships to a variety of causes.

Her next event, Glitz and Glam 2012, will take place November 24, 2012 at the historic Masonic Temple in Downtown Detroit.  Hundreds of Detroiters that purchased original designs right off the runway at Glitz and Glam 2011 have anticipated the 2012 follow-up.

 

 

Glam House Productions specializes in High End events, including Runway Productions.  You can find more out about this energizing company by visiting them on the web at www.glamhouseproductions.com, or contacting info@glamhouseproductions.com.   Additionally, you can connect with them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/glamourosity) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/GlamHouseLLC).