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Interview with Entrepreness Shannon Conley of Urban Waxx

November 9, 2010 by Tina | Comments (0)

Shannon is a powerhouse of energy and tenacity that instantly draws you into her world. She’s the proud owner of Urban Waxx, a local waxing salon that promises you’ll experience, “the best wax you’ll ever have, seriously.” Shannon has been a licensed esthetician for over 14 years, and since then has waxed thousands of clients and specializes in Brazilians and Brow Design. She’s expecting a new baby boy early November along with her husband Cody and daughter Stella. I had the pleasure of interviewing Shannon after going to Urban Waxx for over two years. Read on to find out more about Shannon and fabulous culture of Urban Waxx!

The motto of Urban Waxx is, “The best wax you’ll ever have, seriously.” Why is this message important to you?
This message is important to me because it creates a high standard for my business and my customers. I want my customers to expect high quality customer service when they walk through these doors, because that’s what I truly want to provide for them. Getting waxed should be a fun, comfortable experience and I want people to enjoy their time while they’re here.

How did you develop the Urban Waxx brand and culture?
I started this business because I wanted to create a great waxing environment for people to enjoy and feel welcomed at. I began my career as an esthetician and wanted to create a salon that I wanted to come to as well, which led to our motto, “The best wax you’ll ever have, seriously.” I make sure that our girls are always ready to welcome you, provide refreshments, and make you comfortable before your service.

What do you love most about owning your own business?
What I love most is being able to create a joyful environment that is pleasant and makes everyone from my customers to my employees happy. I love being involved in every aspect of my business and hearing from my employees and customers on what they enjoy about Urban Waxx, as well as what can we improve.

What do you find most challenging?
It’s challenging when there is a constant list of things to do, and daily activities are non-stop. I love the activity, but yes, managing lots of tasks can be difficult at times.

Speaking of managing tasks, how do you manage multiple locations and a team of 18 employees?
I’m a constant list maker. I love writing tasks down then crossing them off when I’m done. With my team, I make sure to always check in with them and ensure to be accessible as well. It’s important to me to encourage open communication within my team so that needs are met, and confusion is clear. I hold monthly meetings with my team to make sure that we’re all on the same page. I try to be there for my team as much as possible, even if they call or text me at 11 at night!

How do you balance your personal life with your business?
I always make time for my family, and ensure to draw a clear line between my business and personal life. I’m fortunate to be able to spend a lot of time with my family, and preparing for our new baby boy in November!

“Unacceptable for us to be average.” I like how you mentioned this in your blog post. What advice would you give to other entreprenesses who are starting and/or having trouble with their business?
Find what drives you. Focus on one thing and excel at what you love to do. With great risks come great rewards, and I truly believe that.

You’ve built this culture that sets you apart from other waxing salons. What are some key tips to build a strong foundation?
Staying focused on the mission of Urban Waxx has helped shape our business in many ways. It’s important to keep yourself and your team focused on what’s important – such as creating a great customer experience, being present, consistent, and humble to your people. With any thriving business, and life in general, you don’t have time to be scared. If you find what you love, run with that idea. If you love what you do, building that foundation will come naturally to you. Most importantly, have fun!

Connect with Urban Waxx!

Website
Twitter
Facebook

Locations:

Urban Waxx NW
1036 NW 18th Ave‬
‪Portland, OR 97209‬
‪(503) 219-9299‬

Urban Waxx – Tanasbourne
2368 NW Amberbrook Dr.
Beaverton, OR, 97006
(503) 372-9505

Interview with Entrepreness Sandra Colton, multi-talented artist making her mark in the Northwest.

August 27, 2010 by Tina | Comments (0)

An artist, dancer, singer, publisher, author and more – this woman does it all! Sandra Colton, native of Las Vegas and current resident of Portland is a former Laker girl, finalist on the FOX show So You Think You Can Dance?, former backup dancer for Rihanna, author of Book Me!, founder and member of more companies and organizations than we can count on one hand. Did we mention she’s down-to-earth and very personable as well? Read our interview with Sandra as she talks about her multi-faceted career and about her upcoming projects to connect dancers all over Oregon.

Hey Sandra! So great to see you again! I first met you at our CRAVE business chat, Local Inspiration a few months back. What have you been up to since then?
Hey! Since then, I’ve been busy teaching and putting together Dance Track Magazine, a magazine that will debut later this fall! I just finished teaching the Thunderbird Dance Camp where kids from Alaska, Washington and Oregon attended and were taught dance skills and routines. I’ve also been teaching dance four times a week here at a local studio.

You published a magazine in 2008 called Original Girl, which highlights lifestyle, fashion and music tips for young women. What will make Dance Track different from Original Girl?
Dance Track Magazine will be more focused on the commercial dance scene and the career paths dancers can take that is influenced by dance. For example, I interviewed a dancer who became a photographer because she began assisting the photographer on set. I also interviewed a dancer that became a hair stylist because he was so great at styling hair for his friends. Dancers are so creative in many ways, and I want to encourage dancers to try on other hats and apply their creative skills in other ways. There are many opportunities for dancers to be successful and I want them to take advantage of that.

Would you say Dance Track in a way is a reflection of your career? You’re a professional dancer who has toured with Rihanna, danced for the Lakers, writing your book, Book Me!, publishing a magazine, teaching and the list continues…
Dancing has always provided a strong career foundation for me as well as open up amazing opportunities along the way. Each project has led me to another, and each dancer has such a unique story that I want to showcase in this magazine. My end goal is to inspire others to go out there and do what they want to do. Also to take advantage of every opportunity that is given to you to see where the road takes you. My background had also inspired the foundation for my book, where I discuss how to become a successful professional dancer in Hollywood.

Speaking of your background, can you tell me about where you came from and how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Des Moines, Iowa and was raised in Las Vegas. My sister and I were dancers and we were on Star Search when I was 12-years-old. We won that season and that was one of my favorite moments of my career because it was my first exposure to the spotlight. Throughout high school, I was a cheerleader and was very involved with student council, and other activities as well. My sister and I would perform at hotels in Vegas as opening acts as well. I was very involved and active in my school and community, which carried on to my college career as well. I went to the University of Oregon in Eugene and made it on the cheerleading team there. That was such a great experience! I majored in Sociology and minored in Journalism instead of the arts because I wanted to try something different and challenge myself.

After college, I moved back to Vegas and landed a job in the XFL, an offseason football league founded by Vince McMahon. Here I was the Communications Coordinator where I had the opportunity to see what it was like on the other side of the business. I would coordinate events, and plan game time events and promotions to get the audience engaged. It was fun and fulfilling to learn the business aspect of what the cheerleaders, dancers, and players were doing rather than being the one performing.

After Vegas, I temporarily moved to New York, Los Angeles, and Seattle before I moved here to Portland. I lived in New York for a few months before I realized that New York wasn’t the place for me. In Los Angeles, I focused on dancing for the Lakers for one season and didn’t take advantage of networking as much as I would have liked to. Seattle was appealing to me because I love the atmosphere of the northwest. In Seattle is where I started Original Girl Magazine and heard about the show, “So You Think You Can Dance?” where I auditioned and became a finalist. From the show, I was blessed with the opportunity to tour with Rihanna among other gigs, which inspired me to write my book and led me to Portland today.

When I first met you at our CRAVE Biz Chat, you mentioned you wanted to get all of the Oregon dancers in one central location to get them networking and collaborating. Currently, Oregon dancers are scattered all over and don’t have as strong of a presence as they could. What are your ideas for changing that?
I created Oregon Dance Network to bring all of the Oregon dancers together and connect them with each other, job opportunities, and dance studios/companies around the state. Eventually I want to open a studio where all dancers are welcome to come learn, practice, and meet in a central location here in Portland. Right now, most of the dance studios are independent and I’m encouraging them to collaborate one another to get the Portland dance scene out there and exposed. I would love to plan events to get EVERYONE in Portland dancing, such as bikers or families for instance so that we ALL can have fun, whether you’re a pro dancer or not.

You have such an inspiring career, where you make your mark and in return help others do the same! As a busy entrepreness, what inspires you to keep going? What has helped you be successful?
Well, I don’t sleep! (Laughs) My boyfriend is forcing me to sleep now so that is eventually getting done. I think for me I have a drive that constantly keeps me going, keeps me fueled to work and try out new ideas. I have so many ideas in my head that my body can’t keep up with me at times. I’m constantly brainstorming and executing these ideas. It’s rewarding to see the final results and that inspires as well. The difference between people who make it and don’t is that those who make it take action while others don’t. If you have an idea you want to happen, try out for American Idol, or land that dream job, the least you have to do is try! Like I always say, “Make your mark, don’t just stand on it!”

www.sandracolton.com
http://twitter.com/sandracolton
http://www.dancetrackmagazine.com/
http://oregondancenetwork.com/

Go Green for Less Green: Create a Healthier Living Environment in 5 Easy Steps

August 18, 2010 by Tina | Comments (0)

Did you know that you spend about 80% of your time indoors? Here in Portland, it’s important that busy entrepreprenesses are armed with the best technology, resources, beauty products, and now sustainable interior design! Sustainable interior design is more than just a trend. It refers to products and habits that foster a healthy environment such as having products that don’t emit harmful chemicals, practicing eco-friendly production methods, and supporting local businesses. If you thought sustainable living wasn’t within your budget range, think again! Read on to find out how you can create a healthier living environment in five easy steps!

1. Eliminate Clutter.
Remove materials that emit harmful gases or chemicals. Removing clutter drastically improves indoor air quality and well being in general. Taming what goes into our home, and recycling what you can helps us save money, time, stress while preventing less junk from going into the landfill.

2. Add Plants.
Plants are very affordable and beneficial in creating a healthy living space! Plants naturally eases stress and promotes relaxation. They can also be a great way to liven up a living space as they naturally clean the air and help improve overall health. Did we mention they’re beautiful as well?

3. Adjust Lighting.
The amount of lighting in a living space can directly affect your mood. Lighting can stimulate action, increase energy, promote relaxation, and encourage intimacy. Open your windows to let some natural light in, and use it as a natural source of illumination if you can. Natural lighting makes for a more attractive entrepreness as well!

4. Save Water.
Are you turning off your water while you brush your teeth? Washing a full load in the dishwasher and laundry instead of a small one? Can you take a shower in ten minutes or less? All of these small changes heavily impact our environment and your water bill over time. Water scarcity is an issue in many countries all over the world, and safe water is a limited resource that we must take care of.

5. Consider Remodeling.
After taking the baby steps to help create a healthier living environment, you may be ready to consider remodeling your home to make it more sustainable. During this step, you may consider updating the color in your home with no or low-VOC paints (ecofriendly paints). Purchasing local furniture or products from artisans in your area is a great alternative from importing overseas. Choosing local helps support your community and help thrive business in your area. We love our local businesses!

To find out more about sustainable interior design, visit these local resources!

Relish Design
1715 NW Lovejoy St
Portland, OR 97209
(503) 227-3779

The Joinery
4804 SE Woodstock Boulevard
Portland, OR 97206
(503) 788-8547

Hunt & Gather
1302 NW Hoyt St
Portland, OR 97209
(503) 227-3400

Ecohaus
819 SE Taylor St
Portland, OR 97214
(503) 222-3881

MetroPaint
4825 N Basin Ave
Portland, OR 97217
(503) 234-3000

Interview with Entrepreness Diane Paulson of Organic Nation Spirits

July 2, 2010 by Tina | Comments (0)

Diane Paulson is the passionate, energetic, and powerhouse co-owner of Organic Nation Spirits, a company that creates the highest quality spirits using organic and locally owned products. Since starting her business in 2008 with her husband, Organic Nation Spirits has received awards and recognition on the national radar. Their awards include a high rating of 87 points from the Beverage Tasting Institute and two silver medals in San Francisco for its 100-percent biodegradable packaging. Read on to find out more about Diane and Organic Nation Spirits.

Nice to meet you, Diane! Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?
I’ve been in Oregon for about 35 years now, and I raised a daughter as a single parent for 15 years. I had a master’s in education and became a teacher for a while. I also had previous experience as a social worker and real estate broker before my husband and I started Organic Nation.

What inspired you to begin your own company in distilling spirits?
My husband and I were exposed to tasting spirits in a liquor store in 2006. After that exposure, our interest in spirits kept coming to us in a series of events! We would go on tours, research about the micro-distillery industry and gained a genuine interest in spirits. The real estate industry was dry so we thought to begin our own spirits company. We wanted something much more interesting and challenging. Even though we had no idea what we were doing, we were able to learn and make it work for us! Since all the women in my family are entrepreneurs, I think I have something in my bones where it fueled me to start my own business. I love trying new things and in this industry there is never a dull moment. I love dealing with the myriad of various situations in this business and it has been very fun and interesting!

What are some tips that has helped you be a successful entrepreness?
I’ve noticed that having the courage to try something new is very important in being successful as an entrepreness. Everyday is different when you own your own business, so people who always have to be in control won’t be as successful. If you’re thinking about owning your own business, you have to assess your personality first. Ask yourself; do I have the personality to be an entrepreneur? Am I able to handle chaos? That is the essence of being an entrepreneur so you must assess your style before you begin your own business.

How do you manage multiple projects at one time?
I cannot live without my day planner! I have to write down all of my ideas and tasks and see it on paper. Having this built-in system gives me a sense of accomplishment as I cross off each task. I understand how I must organize myself to succeed and I know what my working style is like. After you understand yourself and what your work ethic is like, it allows you to be more open-minded to learning new things everyday.

What have you learned about yourself that you didn’t know before you began Organic Nation Spirits?
At the age of 57, I’m aware of what kind of person I am. Through this business, I learned that I need to be the person in charge. During my previous careers, the men were the ones who gained more tension and credibility, but now it’s me in that position and it feels great!

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is the challenge of teaching men who don’t like to work with women, to learn how to work with women. The spirit industry is male-dominated, and the corporate structure is male-dominated. It’s great when we all learn how to work together instead of against each other.

What are some tips that you would recommend for people who are interested in learning more or beginning to experience spirits?
First thing I would recommend is to go and tour a micro distillery. Find out who is making the spirit, get to know them and purchase their product. Understand how the spirit is made, and also understand the strength as well. That is something to be serious about because people tend to underestimate the strength of the spirit. Micro-distilleries are available in all states, so it’ll be easy to find one located near you. This is an emerging industry and it’ll be great if more people educate themselves about it!

For Organic Nation Spirits, our goal wasn’t to try to make a health food. We were very invested in not participating in polluting our environment, and we want to create a quality product with quality ingredients. Organic ingredients are the best ingredients, not only for us, but the environment as well.

What are things people tend to overlook when choosing spirits?
People don’t take time to educate themselves about spirits, and they tend to buy the one that they’ve been marketed to. There are so many great spirits out there that are safe for the environment and us. In our current state, we need to think about our choices because it affects everything around us. It’s more important now than it was fifty years ago to make conscious, educated decisions in making efforts to support our local community and protect our environment.

Oregon is at the forefront for organic food and drink. What are some upcoming projects that you have going on for Organic Nation?
We are very excited to have some organic rye whiskey aging in the barrels right now. The whiskey should be ready in November and we’ll be selling a limited run. We’re also experimenting with a ginger spirit, and possibly a coffee vodka at some point. We’re also working with wineries to make brandy. As a small company, we have a lot more room to be creative so it’s exciting to experiment with many different ideas. Our passion is to provide the highest quality spirits with organic and locally owned products that Oregonians love. Ask for Organic Nation Spirits wherever you travel to and most likely we’ll either be there or will be distributed there!

View more photos on Organic Nation Spirits’ Facebook!

What We’re CRAVING: Goodies for Kiddies!

June 9, 2010 by Tina | Comments (1)

Children of busy entreprenesses deserve the best of everything, whether it’s the coolest clothes, fun toys, or a favorite stuff animal that they could never let go of. Portland has a wide array of children’s stores to serve the city mom, kid at heart, or local artist. Don’t fret, these specialty stores will have something that will appeal to even the most discerning of little ones. Check out where you can find the safest, most unique and inspiring products for your kids here in Portland.

Little Urbanites
Located in the Pearl District, Little Urbanites is a mother and daughter store filled with quality products that are not only functional, but very fashionable as well, for your little urbanite. Here you can find brands such as Little Paul and Joe, Petit Bateau, Ergo baby and more to supply all of your kid’s needs. Check out their online store for an even larger selection of kids goods!

916 NW 10th St
Portland, OR 97209
(503) 227-8729

Finnegan’s Toys and Gifts
A children’s destination here in Portland, Finnegan’s Toys and Gifts have been locally owned and operated for over thirty years. As the Northwest’s largest inedependent toy store, they offer a unique selection of toys, including brands such as Playmobil, Tomy, Learning Resources and more. Locals from town and visitors alike enjoy the selection of toys for every age group, such as Sea Monkeys, Hungry Hungry Hippos, and everything else in between. Get on the max and head down to SW 9th and Yamill to enjoy the fabulous array of this magical toyland.

922 SW Yamhill St
Portland, OR 97205
(503) 221-0306

Grasshopper
Located in the Alberta District, Grasshopper is a charming boutique that specializes in providing eco-friendly toys that promote imagination and wonder. They have a great selection of organic clothing that is fun for both parents and kids. Grasshopper provides exceptional customer service to help you find exactly what you need for your kids!

1816 NE Alberta St
Portland, OR 97211
(503) 335-3131

Kids at Heart
Kids at Heart toy store has been around the Hawthorne neighborhood for more than 22 years. They provide quality toys to enhance your child’s imagination that are hand-selected by their staff. They have a great selection of Sanrio, wooden and stuffed toys that are great for kids of any age that will create a lifetime of memories.

3445 SE Hawthorne Blvd.
Portland, OR 97214
(503) 231-2954

Black Wagon
Black Wagon is located in the Mississippi district, providing artist-crafted merchandise for children ages from newborn to age 12. They have high-quality apparel that is a local favorite for visitors to this store. Here you’ll find brands such as Stroller Blankets, Stokke High Chairs, and Sophie the Giraffe toys. Check out their online store to create an online gift registry and to see their expansive collection great children’s merchandise!

3964 N Mississippi Ave
Portland, OR 97227
(866) 916-0004

Which children’s stores do you and your little ones enjoy the most?

What We’re Craving: Spicy Foods

May 12, 2010 by Tina | Comments (1)

When it comes to food, are you more attracted to more subtle flavors or do you enjoy a more adventurous palate of spices? Either way, spices can take your palate on a journey of spicy dimensions ranging from mild heat to “it hurts so good!” hot. Spices have been known to clear sinuses as well as release endorphins in your body to put you in a good mood. If you’re new to trying spicy flavors, begin with the lowest level of spice and work your way to higher levels. Get your beer ready or glass of milk in hand, we’re going to highlight spicy dishes available here in Portland to add a little kick to your usual routine.

Sushi Mazi’s Fire Cracker Roll
Sushi Mazi is a fantastic sushi restaurant located by Ladd’s Edition and Clinton Street neighborhood in Southeast Portland. Chef Marc Suwansathien opened Sushi Mazi last year here in Portland after living in New York for the past fifteen years. The warm, inviting atmosphere creates the perfect environment in attempting adventurous dishes, such as the deliciously spicy Fire Cracker roll. The Fire Cracker roll is filled with crab, jalapeno wrapped with nori and tempura top with hot sauce and caviar. Chef Marc’s delectable Fire Cracker roll will liven up the flavors for any sushi experience.

Sushi Mazi
2126 Southeast Division Street
Portland, OR 97202-1243
(503) 432-8651

Baan-Thai’s Medium Pad Thai
Baan-Thai is a Thai restaurant located on the Portland State University campus. This restaurant is a local favorite for PSU students, and is known for their delicious Thai dishes full of aromatic flavors. However, be aware of Baan-Thai’s spice levels, especially if you’re just beginning to try spicy flavors. Their level of mild spice is more like an average medium spice for most restaurants, while their medium level is hot hot hot! Try the Medium Pad Thai with chicken, beef, tofu or seafood!

Baan-Thai
1924 Southwest Broadway
Portland, OR 97201-3262
(503) 224-8424

Pok Pok’s Spicy Fish Sauce Chicken Wings
Pok Pok is a fun, energetic indoor/outdoor restaurant located in southeast Portland that specializes in foods mostly from North and Northeast Thailand. Their chicken wings are a customer favorite at Pok Pok. These are a good place to start for those who aren’t quite spice-aficionados just yet. The Spicy Fish Sauce Wings have a milder heat without compromising sticky addictive taste. Their Spicy Vietnamese Chicken Wings provide the perfect meal for a night out with friends and family looking for delicious finger foods to fawn over. They’re so good, even famous culinary professionals like Bon Appetite magazine have nationally recognized these wings.

Pok Pok
3226 Southeast Division Street
Portland, OR 97202
(503) 232-1387

Secret Aardvark’s Hot Sauce
Locally developed here in Portland, this operation began in 2004 as the founders of Secret Aardvark would pedal their sauces to farmer’s markets around town. Their hottest sauce, Secret Aardvark Habanero Hot Sauce can be found at many restaurants all over Portland. This tangy sauce laced with lots of heat can be found swirled into a bloody mary to diminish your hangover at Jam on Hawthorne, on top of your favorite farm plate special at New Seasons, or pizza slices at your favorite pizza joint. Made from white wine vinegar, roasted tomatoes, and habanero peppers, Secret Aardvark Habenero would be the perfect spicy addition to any dish, whether it’s made in your kitchen or at one of Portland’s fabulous restaurants!

Montage’s Spold Macaroni and Cheese
Located under the east side of the Morrison Bridge, Montage is well-known for their wide range of interesting selections. Their menu includes frog legs, crocodile bites, and Spold, a combination of the Old Mac and Spicy Mac. The Old Mac has a more traditional flavor, whereas the Spicy Mac adds a bit of a kick to the traditional Mac and Cheese. The Spold combination is the perfect fusion of spicy and old to create a mouth-watering (and possibly sweaty) experience. This dish consists of garlic, parmesan, Cajun gravy, jalapenos, and tomatoes that will liven up your perspective on the classic favorite.

Le Montage Bistro
301 Southeast Morrison Street
Portland, OR 97214
(503) 234-1324

Also check out: Ping Pdx, My Brother’s Crawfish, and Salvador Molley’s for more spicy food specialties!

Interview with Entrepreness Trish Guido of Relish Design

April 30, 2010 by Tina | Comments (0)

Trisha Guido is the founder of Relish Design, a company that creates and educates about sustainable design that contributes directly to our everyday lives. Her showroom provides sustainable products and services for architects, interior designers, and real estate developers while supporting local artists and designers at the same time. Trisha is a powerhouse of knowledge and ideas while also extremely humble, inviting and mindful of the community and the environment. She started her business eight years ago, which has developed into a resource leader in the design industry!

Relish Design is approaching its 8th year anniversary! Congratulations! How was Relish Design developed?
I began this business eight years ago in a small location in the Pearl. I recently moved over to my current location and renovated the entire space. We’re having an 8th Year Anniversary party on May 21st, and you all are welcome to come!

That’s great! I’d love to come celebrate! You have such a great store with so many products that I’m CRAVING right now! I’m in love with the natural handmade felt rugs, lamps and placemats by Aurelie Tu. What is your process in selecting sustainable products for Relish Design?
I first consider if the product is local. It is important for people to purchase locally because it supports our community and helps our neighbors develop their business and brand. Plus, the methods of buying locally are much more sustainable than importing a product from elsewhere. With this process, I educate people about how things are made. At my previous location, we had a workspace where people can come watch a table being made and allow them to interact and learn about the product. It makes the experience much more meaningful for them while also educating them about sustainable living and design.

I can tell you’re very passionate about your work. What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your job?
The most rewarding aspect for me is seeing the finished product. It’s so rewarding to help a client create a unique, customized local product that may either be the same price or even less expensive than if we purchased it elsewhere. The experience is much more meaningful when people are involved with the design process, where they get to select something that is truly unique to them. It’s really not about money, it’s about the old design concept of “less is more.” I try to educate people to buy beautiful, meaningful, sustainable products that are functional and long lasting rather than something that they won’t use and are using just as a placeholder. I love helping people at any stage of their design process, whether it’s finding a new rug or wanting to renovate an entire room. Sharing my knowledge and my insight is my gift that keeps on growing, and that is what keeps me passionate about my job.

What are some of the challenges that you face owning your business?
The biggest challenge for me is that I tend to take on too much at one time. I love what I do, and I love helping and educating people as much as I can about sustainable design. I share a lot of my time and ideas, and managing multiple projects can be hectic at times.

As a busy entrepreness, how do you manage multiple projects at one time?
At the beginning of every day, I make a list of the top three things that I need to get done that day. From my personal experience, I realized that creating a list of 20 things to do that day is setting yourself up to failure, because achieving 20 things to do in one day may be unrealistic. Then the issue grows larger as you delay your time. Setting a time limit on your 3 to-dos are helpful as well. It’s about taking baby steps.

Speaking of creating a top three list, what are three things that have helped make your business successful?
First thing that has made my business successful is the people. My loyal customers, the local artists that I work with, and everyone else in between has made this business what it is today. Second, the local presence of designers have inspired my customers and I to create beautiful, healthy environments to live in. There are so many talented artists here that I refer to all of the time. I’m working on bringing that local presence into the mass market so that everyone can create a healthy, sustainable living space of their own. Third, I’m very passionate about my job, and I believe in what I do. My heart is invested in my mission and vision of Relish Design, and I think sincerity and authenticity makes all the difference.

What do you say to consumers to help them better understand the issue of sustainability?
I try not to preach to people about sustainability. I break it down to the theory of the “Triple Bottom Line.” The triple bottom line promotes that healthy living doesn’t have to cost a lot of money, how important our living environment is to the well-being of our lifestyle, as well as putting people and the environment in consideration. I provide people with great sources for sustainable design in order to find the best solution for them. It’s rewarding to educate my customers about reusing the sources that they already have. For example, breathing life into an old piece of furniture or adding and reusing an art piece to liven up a dull space. This process also allows me to consider many different types of local businesses as resources where I’m able to introduce them to one of my clients. Every business plays its part in the community.

Once people begin the process of making their home more sustainable, what are some of the first steps they should take?
There are many things people should be mindful of when creating a healthier living space. First step is to remove materials that emit gas or harmful chemicals. This dramatically improves indoor air quality and your well-being in general. Next step is to add plants. Plants are affordable and are very beneficial in creating a healthy living space. It’s also great to consider editing things out that aren’t meaningful to you. Lighting is also important that can completely change the mood of your environment. Get rid of clutter that you’re not using, or recycle items if you can. The last step is to then consider sustainable design.

What are some things people tend to overlook when considering sustainable interior design?
They underestimate the healing power of having plants. Plants are beautiful, inexpensive, and they create an emotive response when people are around them. You could simply have flowers around your home, or a box of plants in your window. Terrarium plants make gorgeous centerpieces, and are very low maintenance as well.

Do you have any last thoughts to leave our readers with?
Our mission is to create access, awareness and excitement about good design that is made with integrity and contributes directly to our everyday lives. I strongly believe in my mission statement, as well as the concept of creating a sustainable home one room at a time. Creating a healthy living space isn’t about spending a lot of money, it’s about being thoughtful of what you consume, how you use it, and how it will benefit you and the environment. We all are not perfect, but beautiful things are not created overnight. I would like people to consider taking the time and thinking about what they consume, why they do it, and get out of the “I have to buy it NOW” mindset. Life is an organic process that takes time to achieve the best result possible.

Relish Design
1715 NW Lovejoy St
Portland, OR 97209
(503) 227-3779
shoprelish.com
twitter.com/relishdesign