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Interview with Celeste Trapp of HairM

October 30, 2009 by Cecilia D. | Comments (1)

Celeste Trapp is the owner of HairM, an upscale salon and spa specializing in men’s grooming. At HairM, “Where Every Man Is King,” clients walk away with not only a tailored cut and looking great, they also feel great. With two locations and more ventures on the way, Celeste still manages to balance her life, doing things she enjoys most such as traveling (she recently came back from a trip before our meet-up, and left for another vacation soon after)!

How does Celeste manage to work on her business (not so much, in it) and still find time and energy to do more? Read our interview to find out!

Let us get to know Celeste. Who she is, what she enjoys …
I take balance in my life very seriously. While I am passionate about my work, I also love traveling, socializing, and going on new adventures. I make time for these activities.

How did you come up with the concept for a gentleman’s salon?
I was waiting to get a treatment at a salon and a man was at the same place I was, waiting and getting his feet soaked. I just thought to myself, “He needs his own place. This salon isn’t catered to his needs.” In addition to seeing how men could feel out of place at women’s salon, I also felt they shouldn’t be short-serviced in a barbershop either. That’s how the concept for HairM developed, a high-end salon specifically for men’s grooming. The first HairM location was opened six years ago to give men an upscale salon experience without the frou-frou and fluff.

What is a typical customer looking for when he comes to HairM?
Our customers are every day guys who realized what they were missing. HairM is a new experience for them and it gives them a break in the day. Women have always been able to view their time at the salon as exciting and relaxing, whereas men would just be in and out. At HairM, the stylists go through advanced training to specialize in men’s hair, so not only are they getting a great cut, they get to relax in an atmosphere where “Every Man Is King.”

What’s your most popular product or service? Are there special packages and rates?
We offer the King’s Cut, which is a 45-minute service that includes shampoo, conditioning, tailored cut, styling, steamed towel, plus a 5-minute scalp massage and stress-relieving neck rub. With the Emperor’s Cut, they get a 10-minute scalp massage and a hand massage too. We also just do the basic cut and shampoo for the guy who still wants to be in and out, but prefers to leave with great hair!

What’s the best way a woman can convince her boyfriend, husband, or guy friend to visit HairM?
We have packages for holiday and gift certificates are nice. Just introducing them to HairM is a good start. And if it helps, we offer free beer and TV stations!

There are great benefits given to employees at HairM, such as retail commission, paid vacation, medical, and a 401K-retirement plan. But what is it about the atmosphere at HairM for employees that keep them there?
We have a very structured system that promotes professionalism, respect, and organization in the work environment. We also have great clients that are appreciative and give generous tips. Stylists are never rushed or left without tasks to do. It really is a stable, stress-free environment.

Do you have any plans in store for HairM’s future?
Yes, in November we’re opening Y-Chrome, a new barbershop venture complete with basic hair services, shoeshine, a pool table, and checkered floors! It’s a 2,055 square feet space at the Commonwealth Building and we’re offering free advanced training to find the best barbers out there.

I’m also planning to open a HairM location in Lake Oswego and possibly the Seattle market.

What are some of the most rewarding aspects of having your own business?
Happy employees and clients—we have a 90% client retention rate, which is spectacular! I also enjoy the flexibility and traveling that I get to do while still being able to know that reliable and trustworthy staff members are managing the businesses.

Any advice or guidance for women aspiring to be business owners?
Have a business plan and utilize resources. There’s an MBA program at Portland State University that I took part in for start-ups and small businesses. Also, think through not just the concept of the business, but also the finances.

Something people would be surprised to know about Celeste …
I moved to South Africa for three months … for love!

Are there any misconceptions about HairM that you’d like to set straight?
Sometimes people perceive HairM and the female staff as women in a dark den looking to lure men in. But that’s not it at all—we’re not “hooters”. Many men just don’t feel comfortable having other men perform scalp massages or any other type of bodywork. We’re professional women who’re highly trained in styling, massage, nail detailing, and face and body treatments—just for men.

HairM – Downtown Portland
101 SW Main Street
(503) 517-0570

HairM – Beaverton, Cedar Hills Crossing
3300 SW Hocken Avenue
(503) 352-0882

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Keep Your Muscles Moving This Season – Best of Portland’s Indoor Fitness

October 28, 2009 by Katerina | Comments (0)

Fall is officially here and we all know how it goes: first comes the cold wind and the ceaseless rain soon follows. There’s absolutely no way you’re getting away from your blanket and hot mug of cocoa. Not to mention the series of back-to-back holidays that arrive with a plethora of reasons to enjoy delicious (but not-so-nutritious) dishes, desserts, drinks … the list of bad habits and guilty indulgences goes on and on.

Well, this may be the case for some, but not you! CRAVE has investigated the best indoor fitness resources around town for energy-boosting, calorie-burning, muscle-toning activities that will get you moving and sweating! Most places offer free trials so you can feel them out and find what best suits you! Just check their websites for details. Here is what we’ve found:

NW Personal Training
2714 NE Broadway, Portland, OR 97232 • Twitter • Facebook
Whether you’re looking for group classes or personal training, the team at NW Personal Training will keep you warmed up during this winter season and get you looking great by summer time. This gym has programs for all levels and at all times of day, so you can design a routine regardless of your schedule. Check out their website and sign up for great freebies like fitness newsletters and their 6-week training manual.

Portland Team Fitness
3500 NE MLK & Fremont
Portland Team Fitness offers a unique medley of classes, such as their Holiday Hustle program that is designed to work you through the winter season and comes at a discounted seasonal price! They also provide adventure trips such as camping, hiking, rafting, surfing, etc. It just depends on the day and place, and they are always open to your suggestions! Sign up now and join their trip to Kuau’i in 2010!

Yoga Pearl
925 NW Davis Street
This studio right in the heart of the Pearl offers a great variety of yoga styles, inlcuding vinyasa & power vinyasa, yin, ashtanga & mysore, yoga basics, prenatal hatha fusion, meditation and pilates. Check out their introductory special of unlimited passes for the first 2 weeks only for $20! They consistently bring in yoga specialists for additional workshops and offer yoga retreats for focused immersion in specialized practices, such as meditation or specific styles of yoga.

Core Power Yoga
2277 NW 23rd & NW Quimby and 
844 SE Morrison Street • Twitter • Facebook
Workout in a sauna? Core Power does it all. Specializing in hot yoga (room temperatures range from 80-100 degrees F depending on the level), Core Power is the perfect escape from the winter’s cold. Performing under high levels of heat not only sweats out all the toxins and allows you to stretch deeper into the muscles than ever before, but it also catalyzes greater fat-burn! Styles include power vinyasa, pilates, hotpower fusion and yoga sculpt.

Julie Lawrence Yoga Center
1020 SW Taylor St., Suite 780 (On Taylor between 10th & 11th)
Julie Lawrence is one of few places offering Iyengar yoga, which is appraised for its emphasis on joint alignment– a common culprit in injuries and muscular aches. While most studios allow for drop-ins, this studio runs by terms. This can be beneficial as it has a concrete curriculum designed to move you forward as time goes on. They also provide specialized workshops throughout the year and offer 5-day retreats.

West African Dance – Matt Dishman Community Center
77 NE Knott Street (Off MLK Blvd)
Try this 90-minute, traditional West African dance! The live drummers don’t stop, and neither do you, keeping your heart rate up the entire time!  Improve your health and sense of rhythm all at once. All levels are welcome, and you have the option to drop-in or to purchase a series of classes for the entire season.

Ghanaian Dance – Center Space
420 SE 6th Avenue
Similar to the dance style taught at Matt Dishman, but specific to Ghana, this high energy dance makes for a great cardio workout while toning major muscle groups and breaking a good sweat. Only $5 for a 1-hour class!

Interview with The Proprietress: Kate Logan Fulford

October 23, 2009 by Cecilia D. | Comments (1)

The Proprietress is Kate Logan Fulford. A former boutique-owner turned business consultant, her blog (TheProprietress.com) and e-guide help current and aspiring business owners alike pursue their dreams of running a successful boutique. Whether you need inspiration, suggestions, or resources, The Proprietress shares her experience and wealth of knowledge to assist you in creating extraordinary shopping experiences for your current and future clients!

What was the most rewarding aspect of having your own business, Ooma in San Francisco?
I went from managing projects of others’ as a project manager in a previous career path to having the authority to manage my own projects and allow myself to express my creativity through these projects.

When did you realize you wanted to start TheProprietress.com?
Even before my son, Oscar was born I knew I had to put things on hold to care for him and the family. When Oscar got a little older I found it was the right time to start doing something for myself again. I began to write my e-book (“The Proprietress: Your Guide to Opening a Chic Boutique”) and started TheProprietress.com as a way to promote my book and share my expertise.

What are some of the questions and concerns current boutique owners ask you to help them with?
A lot of people approached me while I owned Ooma and wanted to get together to chat about what it takes to open up a boutique. Many people have the perception that it’s “difficult”, but in actuality it’s very do-able. It takes a lot of guts, you’ll probably have to quit your job, and it’s risky, but it’s well worth it. TheProprietress.com isn’t so much about me answering questions of others, but rather answering questions I once had asked before, or addressing topics and themes that others may benefit from.

Can you list a few key elements a successful boutique should have?
I believe the #1 element is a WARM WELCOME! Treat your customers like guests in your home. Have everything they may need, engage them, take care of them and make them feel comfortable. STAYING CONNECTED is #2 on my list. Whether through a card in the mail, a quick phone call, a newsletter or blog post, stay in touch with your customers and let them know you’re there and have something they might like.

What about a successful boutique owner? What traits should they possess?
Enthusiasm, optimism, and don’t take things personally. All the technical things can be learned, but when things are difficult, many boutique owners start to feel scared. Their sadness and deflated attitude will get in the way of them doing the right thing for their business. And understand that if people aren’t shopping a lot right now, it doesn’t mean that it’s your fault or because they don’t like your store. Stay optimistic, know that things will pick up, and keep on offering only the best for your customers.

Something people would be surprised to know about Kate is …
I used to be a back up dancer for a band called Super Diamonds in San Francisco! They were a Neil Diamond cover band and I was their costume consultant.

Do you have plans to open a boutique in Portland?
I plan on opening a stationary store!

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Dog is a WO-man’s Best Friend – Portland’s Best Pet Shops

October 21, 2009 by Lauren | Comments (0)

We’ve all heard the saying “dog is man’s best friend” so why not treat our best friends to the finer things in life? Pet care and grooming has gone to a whole new level. There are organic and raw food diets, pet day-care and play dates—not to mention the sassy accessories! The possibilities are endless in the fashion department! It’Boutique pet stores are popping up everywhere and we’ve narrowed it down to a few of our favorites:

Furever Pets: This is doggy heaven and variety is the name of the game. Premium treats, toys, collars, leashes, clothing, carriers, and accessories galore. From the most basic to the most luxurious (Swarovski crystal studded collar and matching leash), Furever Pets makes sure all of their products meet three requirements: Functionality, design and quality. Of course, your furry pals are always welcome!

Salty’s Dog and Cat Shop: Salty’s Dog and Cat Shop have become a local favorite with its convenient locations on N Mississippi and SE Stark. Happy hour is between 5-7 PM and you’ll receive 15% off all treats for your pooch. Now that’s a reason to celebrate! Another great perk for those of you who have “babies” that are 80+ pounds, they offer a food delivery service with a minor fee. The personable staff at Salty’s gets rave reviews from cat lovers also! They offer a wide variety of cat food and treats, toys, litter and various other cat accouterments.

Meat for Cats and Dogs: Meat focuses primarily on supplying raw foods for your pets at affordable prices. Although feeding raw is slightly more expensive than your general pet diets, your pet will face fewer health risks and those that do occur will clear up quicker. Meat offers a variety of ways to feed raw, and they’ll help you find the one that suits you and your pet the best. Biologically appropriate raw foods (BARF) is about feeding animals what they were made to eat. Here are just some of the benefits: teeth and gums will be naturally cleaned by the chewing of raw meaty bones, skin and coat will be shiny and soft, they’ll have smaller and less offensive poops, increased energy, stronger immune system, and allergies will go away!

Tre Bone: Tre Bone is located in N Portland in downtown St. John’s, but worth the drive for the individual attention you receive and the high quality foods. The staff is warm and knowledgeable, always willing to track down an item for you if they don’t carry it—with a smile! Tre Bone supports locally made pet foods and sponsors charitable events that benefit pets/animal groups in serious need. The owners of Tre Bone also work to organize the local businesses into a cohesive group, thus creating a new standard for pet stores.

Interview with Kathi O’Neil of Westover Media & Portland Picks

October 16, 2009 by Cecilia D. | Comments (0)

Westover Media and City Picks Group are the fruition of Kathi O’Neil’s hard work and dedication. As a full-service marketing firm, Westover Media’s partial rolodex of clients include: Oprah, Vogue, Vanity Fair, The New Yorker, W, Health, and many others. With her national magazine experience, she launched PortlandPicks.com in 2004, a city guide all about shopping in our fabulous city! Since then six other City Picks have launched including city guides for men.

Think you know your city well? Kathi and her girls will introduce you to the swankiest boutiques and the hottest places to dine, drink, and pamper. All you have to do is subscribe to receive their every-Friday e-newsletter to get the scoop!

CRAVE Portland wants to know the woman behind such successful businesses. Tell us a little about who you are: your interests, hopes and dreams. Anything!
I spend most of my time trying to balance work and family, which is also my hopes and dreams since it’s a constant struggle! I love to read, write, and work out. I have a trainer four days a week and I like spinning and Pilates. Coincidentally enough, my passion and one of my favorite hobbies is being an entrepreneur. I love the creativity involved with having your own business, or creating new ones.

Why do clients come to Westover Media for marketing and promotions?
New products are put into the hands of the consumer where they can see it, touch it, taste it, and in an environment that lends itself to the experience. In this sense, we work very organically and create a lot of buzz and word-of-mouth. Also, we work heavily with magazines like Vogue, Glamour, People … virtually every magazine, for promotions.

What’s considered “marketing from the ground up” (company tagline)?
We introduce new products to one consumer at a time, making sure to stay away from television advertising and other out-of-home media. It’s very personal and grass roots—hence, from the ground up.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of owning your own business?
There’s a certain sense of pride, the constant challenge of wanting to succeed, and the passion and creative freedom when it’s your own. I have also learned that there is no problem that doesn’t have a solution.

Where are your personal favorite places to shop for chic clothing?
I love Mabel & Zora and Naturals in Lake Oswego. Amai Unmei boutique and Sofada are also on my list. Of course there are a million others I adore in this town, it’s hard to be faithful to just one! That’s why I started Portland Picks. There are so many incredible local shops and it’s my goal to support them all!

Who/what motivates and inspires you to do what you’re doing now?
The creative freedom, the desire to grow, and a sense of pride and ownership. It’s just a totally different motivation when it’s your “baby”.

Do you have any words of wisdom for all the aspiring female entrepreneurs out there?
If there’s fire in you, it’ll happen! So just do it, begin it. If you think too much, it’ll never happen. Of course be smart about it too, but you can start small and figure it out as you go along. Just make sure you’re totally passionate about it, or else it won’t succeed.

What have you learned from your mistakes?
Not trusting your gut feeling. Sounds kind of hokey but when something didn’t feel right to me, it almost always wasn’t right. Other people that I respect have offered suggestions and advice, and when I took it because I thought I should and they might know more than me, it didn’t pan out. I always make decisions (after thorough exploration of course) when I FEEL it’s the right thing and can act confidently. You know more about your business and your vision than anyone else, so go with your gut!

How do you relax and wind down after a hard day at work?
I don’t really. It’s kids, homework and activities, dinner, get them ready for bed, then back on my computer or some good TV if it’s Thursday.

What’s in store for the future of Westover Media and City Picks Group?
I would love to grown them both substantially. We’re already in other cities across the country with Picks, so I want to continue to expand and support local businesses in all our cities.

What is your idea of success?
Balance! To be a good mom to the best of my ability while also doing the best I can with my business and feeling good about all I’ve done.

Tapping into Portland’s Sweet Spot – Portland’s Best Bakeries

October 14, 2009 by Cecilia D. | Comments (0)

Whether you’re looking for cakes for a special occasion, seeking a wholesome lunch, or looking for delicious vegan-options, these three featured bakeries will provide you with a well-rounded assortment of cakes and desserts, chocolates confections, and savory dinner options perfect for any occasion or none at all. Enjoy our sampling of notable bakeries in Portland!

Helen Bernhard Bakery: Throughout the 85 years Helen Berhard Bakery has been in existence, many changes have occurred. But one important aspect has remained the same: the home bakery feeling. Helen Bernhard Bakery was established in 1924, beginning as many bakeries did in those days by baking cakes for neighbors and friends. Whether you’re a neighbor or just visiting, looking to pick up or custom order, the staff at this homely bakery will greet you as “Dear” and are ready to prepare the freshest, most delicious cakes, treats, and breads for you to take home and share with friends and family.

Black Sheep Bakery: 820,000 chickens have been given a day off in the nine years Black Sheep Bakery has been in business. What a powerful statement. Owned by Amanda Felt, who started her vegan bakery business selling at various cafes and markets, Black Sheep Bakery now sells to 65 stores in the Portland/Vancouver area, has tents at three farmer’s markets, operates two cafes, does catering for happy vegan couples, and has launched a line of vegan and gluten-free artisan chocolates. Whew. What a mouthful, literally! Try one of their handmade pies, which incorporates as many organic and local ingredients as possible while maintaining the value and quality their customers have grown to know and love. Or treat your guests to Maple Pecan Turtles and Peppermint Cups this holiday season!

Elephants Delicatessen: Elephants Delicatessen makes delicious, local foods from scratch every day for your enjoyment. Choose from a wide selection of fresh and aromatic soups, sandwiches, salads, entrees, baked goods and desserts. My favorite has always been the apricot glazed chicken–sweet, savory, and perfect with a side of roasted vegetables. Need sack lunches for a meeting or party? Elephants delivers! Check out their new seasonal menu consisting of Potatoes au Gratin, butternut squash & gruyere pizza, Moroccan orzo salad, and orange cranberry scones.

Win a Fluxus bias wrap sweater from Adorn!

October 13, 2009 by Cecilia D. | Comments (28)

Adorn opened its doors in September of 2008 in an effort to bring hard to find, quality street wear to men and women in Portland. They’re celebrating a successful first year by launching three new lines: Quicksilver Limited, WeSC, and Cardboard Robot! Adorn also carries designer favorites such as Erheart Streetwear, Foreign Family, Fluxus, Kidrobot, and Obey. All these lines are easy to wear and stylishly functional for the Portland girl!

In celebration of a successful year, Adorn and CRAVE Portland have teamed up to give fans (U.S. only) a Fluxus bias wrap sweater ($96 value)! The line is a celebrity favorite for burnout tees, tanks, and easy-to-wear sweaters and skirts. To enter the giveaway, all you have to do is:

1. Follow Adorn on Twitter
2. Follow CRAVEPortland on Twitter
3. Leave a comment on this post with your name and a valid email address!

Pretty simple, right? One winner will be selected randomly to receive this Fluxus wrap, made from a midweight jersey cotton blend that drapes beautifully. Contest ends October 25th at 11:59 PM. Winner will be contacted by e-mail. Thank you to Nicole Whitesell, owner of Adorn for this amazing giveaway and good luck to all!

Shop Adorn is featured in CRAVE Portland’s 2009 city guide.

Adorn
shopadornonline
223 NE Russell St, Portland OR 97212
503.505.1795
Open 10-6 Thurs-Sat

Interview with Sahlia of Sahlia Michelle Jewelry Design

October 9, 2009 by Cecilia D. | Comments (5)

Sahlia Michelle is a Portland-based jewelry designer who creates timeless pieces that are equal parts feminine, edgy, and durable. Raw semi-precious gemstones, hand-pounded sterling silver and her signature molten silver droplets are the core elements of the latest collection. Combined with organic materials such as antler slices, feathers, and authentic stingray skin, the finished product captures Sahlia Michelle’s attention to detail and craftsmanship. Here is an interview with Sahlia:

Tell the story of Sahlia Michelle Jewelry Design. How did your business come to be?
I’ve always loved fashion and design. Even at a young age, I was creating and exploring different mediums of art, finding inspiration from the environment and my surroundings. After college, I developed a passion for designing art to adorn the body. I realized I had something more to offer the fashion industry, and established my business to share it with others.

What’s your design point-of-view or vision for your line?
I believe balance should be executed in each piece as well as in the overall collection. My collection has pieces that are just bold or just delicate, while others are edgy with subtle feminine details. My vision is to design jewelry that lets women feel confident and sexy.

Who has inspired you or been your role model along the way?
Mom—she inspires me with her own artistic talents and has always supported me from the start. Also, I think designers and entreprenesses like Alice Dobson (owner/designer Sofada) have a huge influence on me. Seeing other local artists create their own line, open a boutique, and make a splash in NY Fashion Week really puts “making it” into perspective. Now that’s something!

What is the next step for Sahlia Michelle?
I think it’s important to make my jewelry more accessible to customers. I’d love my next studio to be closer to shopping districts and more of a space where women can try on each piece and share good times with friends while they shop.

Could you offer any advice for young women who aspire to create their own business or art?
THINK BIG and follow through. Create a business plan, set goals, and get involved. Love what you do! Sometimes it will be difficult and you may want to drop everything, but don’t. Persevere and you’ll get closer to achieving your dreams.

What do you love most about what you do?
Creating custom one-of-a-kind pieces is a very rewarding aspect of my work. I love working one on one with a client to design the perfect piece for a special occasion.

Something people would be surprised to know about Sahlia Michelle …
Even though I love to get girly, I’m a tomboy at heart! I’m active and love doing adventurous outdoor activities such as boarding or hiking. I need jewelry that I don’t have to fuss with before I get on a wakeboard or go camping for the weekend—and yes, I do wear jewelry camping! My jewelry is designed to be as durable as it is beautiful.

Where can people find your jewelry in the Portland Area?
My new studio space in the Ford Building has the entire collection. The studio is open Monday, Wednesday, & Friday from 1-6PM. I’d love for anyone interested to stop by the studio, or shop online. If you’re out and about on the town, my jewelry is also available at several local boutiques including; Sofada, Switch, Lizard Lounge, Radish Underground, ChapterFour, Suite 6, Hot Box Betty & Oxalis. Details & locations are available online at www.sahliamichelle.com.

2505 SE 11th Ave. Suite #352
Portland, OR 97202
(541) 513-8071
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Best of Portland Footwear for Fall

October 7, 2009 by Mai T. | Comments (0)

Summer is now officially behind us, and it’s time to put away those flip flops for some more sensible and rain-friendly foot wear. With so many versatile styles, boots are perfect option to both keep your toes warm and stay stylish. Whether you like flat bottomed boots or mile high heels, cute ankle boots or bold printed rain boots you can find a different option for every occasion. Here are some of the highlights from our favorite shops:

• At Amenity Shoes you won’t have to worry about blisters or sore feet with this footwear. Their boots are not only stylish but also comfortable! We are loving the Oh! Michelle boots. With their country vibe and their brilliant red, they’ll spice up any outfit. Also the Born Crown “Allegra” boots which come in black would be great comfortable boot for a night on the town.

• The Dolce Vita: Tessa Flat Boot from Meringue Boutique would look great with some skinny jeans. The sleek black leather, buckles and ¾” heal is stylish and sophisticated. If you’re not sure what kind of boots are for you, Meringue’s stylists will help you find the perfect fit!

• The boots from Switch Shoes are so unique and full of color. You’ll make a bold fashion statement with these boots. From pink boots, to boots with flowers, to patchwork boots, you’ll be sure find something that goes with your personal style.

• With its inviting dĂ©cor and fun store name, Zelda’s Shoe Bar (633 NW 23rd AvePortland, OR) is another must for your fall shoe shopping. Zelda’s offers different styles from flat boots to wedge boots. Most of the brands sold at Zelda’s will not be found at any other store. We love all of their high heel boots.

Interview with Lisa Schroeder of Mother’s Bistro & Bar

October 2, 2009 by Mai T. | Comments (0)

Chosen as Willamette Week’s “Restaurant of Year,” Portland Oregon’s Mother’s Bistro & Bar serves comfort food classics made from scratch, perfected in the hands of four star restaurant-trained chef Lisa Schroeder. Specialties include a different macaroni and cheese daily, melt-in-your-mouth buttermilk biscuits and delicious desserts, as well as a Mother of the Month (”M.O.M.”), whose dishes are featured along with her unique story. Here is an interview with Lisa:

What are the most popular or best selling products or services?
Lisa Schroeder: Slow-cooked dishes that take hours to prepare; pot roast, chicken and dumplings, meatloaf, and amazing breakfasts.

People may be surprised to know…
We have a daily special menu that features seasonal dishes, salads, desserts and the freshest fish.

What was the inspiration or motivation behind starting your business?
I was working 13 hours a day in desk job and did a lot of take out for my family. That’s when I realized that what the world needed was a place to get “Mother Food” — the food that a mother would make for her family if she had the time.

How do you spend your free time?
With my significant other and grandchildren, doing fun things like going to concerts, movies and parties… and gardening.

Where is the best place to get a manicure or pedicure?
Top Ten Nails on Hawthorne Blvd, because they take the time to do it right.

What is the best gym or fitness club?
My house because I don’t have to get dressed to go there!