CRAVE CRUSH the urban girl's blog to all that you CRAVE

Never Been a Better Time to CRAVE a Haircut!

May 31, 2010 by Lilla | Comments (0)

If you’re thinking about getting a hair cut because of the SATC 2 premiere, a job interview, or you just want a fresh summer look, put that appointment on the books and do a little good while you’re at it. Schedule a hair cut at a Gene Juarez Salon & Spa location by Wednesday, June 2 and you can help the environment in the Gulf of Mexico as well as the animals and the humans that inhabit the area!

Matter of Trust, a sustainability focused, non-profit organization is teaming up with Gene Juarez to collect hair clippings for oil spill clean up in the Gulf of Mexico. Their goal is to have all 265 Gene Juarez hair artists save the clippings from about 10,000 hair cuts for use as sustainable oil boom filler.

Curious how it all works?

Matter of Trust makes sustainable oil collection booms from 15 foot, discarded nylon “socks” stuffed with human hair clippings. Human hair naturally absorbs oil and can hold on to it. (This is why we must shampoo). These sustainable booms are used by oil clean-up volunteers and some municipalities to protect shore lines and estuaries in the areas affected by the spill. The booms are held in buoyant cages for easy collection after oil absorption.

In order to provide Matter of Trust with as many hair clippings as possible, Gene Juarez is dedicating one of its salon supply trucks to the effort. Each day the supply truck will visit multiple salon locations to pick up the clippings and store them in pallets at the Gene Juarez warehouse facility. On Thursday, June 3, after all the clippings are collected the Gene Juarez team will pack the hair pallets into a moving truck and send their clippings collection to a staging area in Alabama where the hair is placed in booms. The deadline for hair clipping delivery is Thursday, June 10th. This is why you need to schedule your appointment for no later than Wednesday, June 2, so the trucks have time to reach their destination.

Gene Juarez is dedicated to helping the people and animals in the Gulf who are affected by this tragedy. They want to spread the word about their efforts, because in this case, almost everyone has something to give that can help with clean up.

Book your haircut now and do something for the good of others, as well as yourself! Call 425-373-3710 or log on to genejuarez.com to find the salon closest to you. More about oil spill clean up can me found at genejuarez.com/Style/Blog .

CRAVE Symposium Mentors Offer Some Insight

May 28, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

The CRAVE Symposium is quickly approaching and we cannot wait for this year’s All Day Think-Tank Extravaganza! We have some fabulous experts lined up to provide expert advice to all you hardworking entreprenesses. Before you meet them at our “Un-Conference” on June 7th, we thought we would provide you with a taste of insight from a few of our mentors. Still haven’t purchased your ticket for the Symposium? Click here to learn more about the day and secure your spot.

We asked our experts to answer the following questions:
1). Describe your business in one sentence.
2). What is one tip you would give to entreprenesses?
3). What is the best part of your job/why do you enjoy working with female business owners?

Maria Ross- Red Slice
1. Red Slice offers branding and marketing consulting to help businesses tell their story and engage, inform and delight their customers.
2. Make sure you know who your audience is! Get as close to defining your “ideal” customer vs. just your “average” customer.
3. Seeing the light go off when they discover what their brand is really all about or who really is their ideal customer.

Nicole Donnelly- BigRugby
1. We connect people one passion at a time.
2. Focus and be persistent so that you get what you want, don’t let the man get you down or feel you up.
3. I enjoy talking shop with the ladies because we share an understanding of how things work in the man’s world yet every day we create our own reality to drive a powerful undercurrent of change.

Hillary Vandenbos- Excel~a
1. Consulting with a twist: A dash of business experience, a pinch of intuitive finance, and a spark of creativity mixes together to produce a consulting experience for companies and individuals.
2.Take time to take care of yourself, to look within.  Because your health and well being is directly linked to the success of your company.
3. Women business owners continually intrigue me with the deep complexity and skill they courageously bring to the marketplace.

Shauna Causey- Voluntweetup
1. I help non-profits with social media, communication, PR, project management and events and I help businesses with cause marketing.
2. Test your limits on how generous you can be.
3. The best part of my job is that I get to talk about dynamic ideas, inspiring people and worthwhile causes.

Margo Myers- Margo Myers Communications
1. Helping business deliver their messages in the most effective way possible.
2. Make the effort to keep up your connections and meet new people, but make sure you give yourself enough time to actually ‘do’ quality work for your clients.
3. I love it when I can bring people together for the right event, interview, or a new way to get across an idea, and to see what exciting possibilities that can bring to a business or an organization.

Keren Brown- Foodportunity
1. Foodportunity is a series of food networking and educational events that connect Seattle’s food community.
2. Spread the wealth. Offer to connect people first, because  introducing them to your networks or including them in plans will ultimately yield the most meaningful connections.
3. The best part of my job is seeing the new connections and seeing people that have met at my events, hanging out together.

Lara Feltin- Biznik
1. Biznik is business community for independent business people who are passionate about what they do and want to be part of a community of like-minded folks interested in helping each other succeed.
2. When you’re a solopreneur, viewing each other as collaborators will get you further than viewing others as competition.
3. I have a passion for learning how others express their creativity and supporting them in doing that. Wouldn’t the world be a cooler place if more people were able to use their working hours as an outlet for their creativity?

Jennifer Donogh- Ovaleye
1. Ovaleye, a family business, is the premier web host for women offering hosting plans that were specifically designed for the needs of busy, passionate, and successful entrepreneurs.
2. Surround yourself with the right people. The “right” people could be people that possess certain qualities that you lack or who can motivate you and encourage creativity.
3. The best part of my job is in growing Ovaleye with my mother everyday and getting the opportunity to learn from her experience as an entrepreneur.

Huge thanks to all of our amazing CRAVE Symposium sponsors: Biznik, Street Treats, PINKS Original Bakery, popchips, and Seattle Woman Magazine!

We CRAVE Fashion and Function for Summer Accessories

May 26, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (0)

Here at CRAVE we rely on accessories year-around to transform an everyday outfit to a show-stopping ensemble! However, during the summer days we need accessories for both fashion and functionality. You couldn’t protect your face from the harsh sun rays without a funky fedora, or keep warm through Seattle’s breezy summer nights without a soft cotton scarf.  Did you pack away all of last years summer gear during the long winter, stormy months and can’t seem to find them? No matter what your budget or style, you will be able to spruce up your summer wardrobe with these unique statement pieces we found at these exceptional boutiques.

Kennedy & Kate-Accessories
kennedyandkate.com
Owner Sarah Wen opened Kennedy & Kate in Bainbridge Island after relocating from Orange County. She brings her coastal eye for style to the Northwest summer season by including a vast array of unique jewelery, colorful scarves, and totes. She blends affordable with luxury, but always assures great quality finds! Avoid harsh UV rays by protecting your face with a Classic Fedora. Bring a splash of color to any outfit by including a Kersh Tube Scarf in an array of colors. Liven up your summer ensemble with the accessories from Kennedy & Kate.

Ella Mon
ellamon.com
Inspired by her travels after leaving the corporate track in 2006, owner Monica Treacy offers hand-picked international and local assortments offered at her shop. Ella Mon is located in the heart of Ballard and has focused on providing anchor pieces that can bring you through any season. This summer build a bold, vibrant jewelry collection here! At Ella Mon you will find collections from major jewelry designers including- Satya Jewelry, Swish Jewelry, Jessica Alexander Jewelry, and Rebecca Norman Jewelry.

Laura Bee’s Design-Handbags
laurabeedesigns.com
Create the ultimate exclusive accessory at Laura Bee’s Design shop this summer. Delve into the existing selection in-store, on their website, or create your own design! Owner Laura Buzard’s Ballard shop also doubles as an eclectic design studio. Her team makes everything from custom hairpins to handbags. You can select from a multitude of high quality fabrics & silhouettes. We CRAVE a customized handbag from Laura Bee Design!

CRAVE is Expanding – New Position Open!

May 25, 2010 by Lilla | Comments (1)

Looking for an in-house sales person who connects with small businesses. Sales management experience is a plus. Knows how to find influencers and is a great communicator with a “cheerleader” personality. Position is in Seattle helping drive our CRAVE guide business. Send resume to: melody@thecravecompany.com

Come Celebrate the Launch of Red Slice’s New Book

May 24, 2010 by Lilla | Comments (0)

Come celebrate the launch of Red Slice’s (red-slice.com) new book that helps solopreneurs, small businesses and even non-profits build a strong brand that connects with customers.

Join us as we celebrate the launch of Branding Basics for Small Business: How to Create an Irresistible Brand on Any Budget (2010, Norlights Press) by Seattle brand and marketing strategist and CRAVE gal Maria Ross. This fresh, sassy and practical guide will show entrepreneurs everywhere how to build a strong brand inside and out so they can attract rabid fans and grow their businesses.

Come raise a glass, mingle and nosh and get some great branding advice to boost your business! There will be light appys and a fully stocked cash bar.

Pertinent Details:
When: Tuesday June 15, 2010; 6-8:30 pm
Where: Little Red Bistro, 400 Dexter Ave North, Seattle WA 98109
(South Lake Union District between Mercer and Denny. Look for the Historic Red Clock at Dexter and Harrison.)
RSVP Here

*Please RSVP to HERE so we can get an accurate count.

“Maria Ross makes it clear that branding isn’t just for big companies, rich companies, or consumer companies. It’s for your company. In a single readable volume, she shows you how to separate yourself from the pack and win.”
- Marty Neumeier, author of The Brand Gap and Zag

Maria Ross, Seattle branding and marketing consultant and founder of Red Slice, uses case studies, her own 16+ years of experience, and expert interviews to show business owners what branding truly means and why it matters to your bottom line. Featured local businesses include CRAVE, DRY Soda, Sisters of Sizzle, Alinga Bodywork and Dot Girl Products. With this book, you’ll discover how to craft a strong brand strategy that enables you to clearly and consistently communicate your unique vision and values through every customer touchpoint.

Maria is one of our mentors for the upcoming CRAVE symposium June 7th.

Sponsored by:

Dangerous Foods Hiding in Your Pantry

May 24, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

Do you CRAVE a healthier lifestyle? We asked one of our favorite wellness gurus, Jamie Dougherty, for some simple ways to improve your diet by cleaning out the “dangerous” foods hiding in your pantry. Here is what Jamie had to say about those last few items in your kitchen standing between you and your healthiest self.

When people begin to eat better, the food in their refrigerator changes. More fruits, fresh vegetables, organic, pasture raised diary and meat. However there is one place that is always the last vestige of unhealthy food…the pantry! Pantries are the final frontier of “hazardous for your health” foods. Pantry food must be shelf stable, meaning food items are pumped full of chemicals and preservatives to make them last longer. Processed foods are also loaded with sugar, low quality oils and genetically modified fillers that can damage our bodies.

Luckily there are a number of tasty alternatives to replace the unhealthier models. Here are a few easy pantry raiding swap-outs to get started.

Top 5 pantry foods to replace

Bread crumbs

OUT - The packaged stuff. Full of hydrogenated oils, sugar, and anti-caking agents.
IN - Make your own crumbs. Take unused stale bread, put in a food processor with sea salt, and then toast in a slow oven. Keep them in the freezer or in the pantry in a sealed container.

Broth

OUT - Bouillon cubes, powder or canned stock. Full of sugar, low quality salt, MSG, and genetically modified ingredients.
IN – Homemade or organic boxed stock (Pacific Naturals Vegetable Stock is very good).

Cooking Oils, Fats & Sprays

OUT –Aerosol oils (PAM) and vegetable shortenings. Dump the corn, peanut, vegetable, soybean, safflower oils, margarine, and Crisco.
IN - High quality extra virgin olive oil, extra virgin coconut oil, sesame oil, flaxseed & hemp oils, ghee/clarified butter, organic butter.

Salad Dressing and Sauces

OUT - Bottled dressings, marinades, sugary BBQ sauce, ketchup, soy sauce.
IN – fruit sweetened ketchup and BBQ sauce (check out Organicville), tamari/shoyu, and homemade dressings. Use good oils, balsamic/red wine vinegar, ginger/sesame oil/tamari, tahini with lemon.

Vanilla

OUT - Imitation vanilla: loaded with corn syrup and added sugars.
IN – Real vanilla extract and vanilla beans. They’re expensive, but totally worth it!

To receive your fill of healthy living tips become a JAMIE|LIVING Facebook Fan or follow her on Twitter! You can also find delicious recipes at www.jamieliving.blogspot.com.

Jamie G. Dougherty is the owner and founder of JAMIE|LIVING, Health and Lifestyle Counseling. She is an AADP certified Holistic Nutrition Counselor with a private and corporate practice that offers assistance nationwide. She is passionate about deliciously healthy food and specializes in helping her clients transform their lives through the power of nutrition and self-care.

Insight from Makeup Artist, Sheila Patel

May 21, 2010 by Jennifer L. | Comments (0)

Whether it’s just a hint of blush on our cheeks, a swab of lipgloss to our puckers, or a brush of mascara to our batting eyelashes, we all want to look and feel our best! However, with the plethora of make-up options out there, finding the right products can be quite overwhelming…what color foundation to use, what eyeshadows look best on a brown-eyed beauty, liquid eyeliner or pencil??? This is where renowned make-up artist, Sheila Patel comes into the picture. With a trained eye, a steady and skilled hand, she applies the right mixture of shadows and powders
Voila! You have your own customized look. Here is her expert advice and a video featuring the “Artist at Work”, enjoy!

What was the inspiration or motivation behind starting your business?

My sister in law, Xuan Thu Pham encouraged me to get back to doing something that I have excelled in in the past and all the credit goes to her for my getting back in.

What mistake have you made in your business that you will not repeat?

Overscheduling. Earlier on in my career when I just started out, there was a time when I was working continuously from one makeup client to another in a single day. Because I worked with more clients than I could manage in one day, I felt that I did not put in the effort and time that each client deserved. I wanted to give the focus and attention to each person, but with time against me, I was not able to do that. From that experience on, I never did that again. Each customer is special to me and I’ll only work on a client at a time – that is my philosophy.

What is your favorite make-up brand?

I like different makeup brands for different reasons. I use MAC, Shu Uemura, Glauca Rossi, NARS, Makeup Forever, Ben Nye, and Kryolan. In fact, I have so many different brands in my professional makeup toolbox that I can’t name all the brands I enjoy using. Each brand is uniquely used for different purposes and events such as TV or weddings. As an everyday favorite makeup brand, I like Bobbi Brown.

What defines the Bollywood style? Do you think it would cross-over to the U.S.?

I’m glad you asked me this question because so many people have different notions of what the “Bollywood style” is and what it really means. Coming from Mumbai and having worked with Bollywood and MTV – I see the different perceptions of how people view Bollywood. What defines the Bollywood style has more to do with what you see on a film set: the movie scenes, dance scenes, and the ensemble of women who dress up in extravagant attire along with the extravagant makeup to go with it. Bollywood is about glamour, visual performance artistry, and telling a story.

This is why a Bollywood style is not suitable for everyday looks. If you’ve ever seen a wedding scene from a Bollywood film, you’ll notice the rich colors, embroideries, and magnificent jewelry that the women are wearing. Also notice their makeup – it’s created and done up to be very dramatic. When you wear such beautiful clothes, your face is competing with it and pales in comparison to what you’re wearing. That’s why it has to look very dramatic.

I think it the Bollywood look can absolutely cross over to the U.S. if it’s in the wedding space. However, with everyday looks, it might be too much, especially without the costumes. But if you’re up for that look for yourself, why not?

What is your favorite make-up look for spring/summer?

I have this secret passion for the orange and yellow color theme. If it’s done well, it can really work for you. Case in point: you can use a yellow eyeshadow

and apply it over your eyelids. Then use an orange eyeshadow to contour the lids as well as the edges. Next, you can define your eyes with black eyeliner and mascara – and voila. Most people think they can’t use these colors, but you can!

What is the most common make-up mistakes you see people make?

Mismatched foundation has to be the topper on the list. This is the most common mistake I’d like to see people stop making. Coming from an Asian country, there is an obsession to have fair skin. People try to correct that by using light foundation. The end result? Your skin will end up looking grey. Also, some people tend to incorrectly use bronzers or foundation that’s too dark for them, which are really too orange for one’s face. This looks hideous.

A good indicator of using the proper foundation for yourself is to reference it in natural sunlight. Typically, when you buy it in the mall under fluorescent lighting, it’s easy to make the mistake of buying the wrong color for your skintone. What you can do is apply a small amount from the tester on your skin – step outside and see if it matches your skin. Just be true to your skin tone and be proud of your natural beauty.

Visit Sheila Patel at:

Website: sheilapatelsf.com

Blog: bit.ly/MakingFaces

Twitter: bit.ly/cZvamc

Facebook: bit.ly/cKLfS7

YouTube: bit.ly/91hB9F

CRAVE-ing a mani-pedi?

May 21, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

Though it seems winter is still upon us in Seattle, Spring is here! There is nothing better after a long winter than seeing a little glimmer of sunshine here in the Emerald City. The sunshine reminds us that we will no longer be hiding our hands in gloves or mittens and are feet will be exposed in open toe shoes! This makes us CRAVE an escape to a nail salon for a custom manicure and pedicure treatment. However, with more than fifty nail salons to chose from in Seattle, where will you go? Whether you are looking for a urban oasis, contemporary full service salon, or a retro lounge we have found amazing salons with specialized services that will meet your needs and prepare your feet & hands to be renewed for the next Spring event!

Julep Nail Parlor
myjulep.com
There are countless reasons to love Julep Nail Parlor, but one of the best reasons is they have five locations spanning in major locations from Gig Harbor to Bellevue. Spring for the Julep Manicure and receive the Parlor Guarantee-touchups are complimentary within five days! Julep’s environmentally friendly interior choices, sterilization practices, and relaxing ambiance is a perfect place to gather with friends to celebrate an event or just relax.

Spa Del Lag
spadellago.com
As you walk through the hallways of the elegant, contemporary interior of Spa Del Lago check your worries at the door as you prepare to enjoy one of their fine salon services. It is liking walking into a five-star hotel! Pamper yourself as you upgrade from the classic pedicure to the Spa Pedicure which includes a much needed leg message as your feet soak in a warm bath of hot river rocks and lemon slices. Want to extend your stay at the Spa? Book a package in advance like the “Total Relaxation” package which includes an hour Hot Stone Massage, Del Lago Premier Facial, and the Spa Manicure & Pedicure. Spa Del Lago is a serene escape that will soothe your mind and rejuvenate your body.

Beauty Bar Spa & Boutique
beautybarspa.com
While waiting at the lounge at Beauty Bar & Spa enjoy the beautiful art deco and retro furnishings, walking into the spa you will be instantaneously transported into a different era. Lisa Cantu has fifteen years of experience as a manicurist and consistently provides high quality manicures. The spa offers top-notch services at affordable prices. Pamper yourself as you enjoy one or more of their extensive menu of services. Not only does Beauty Bar Spa provide salon services they are also home to local artist, painters, and designers! This spa provides an all inclusive, unique experience. Leave her feeling refreshed, inspired, and CRAVE-ing to come back for another visit!

How to Plan Your Perfect Summer Party with LA Glam

May 20, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

Planning a party can be loads of fun but let’s be totally honest
planning and attending the same party can be tough. That’s why CRAVE asked Christina Murphy, who runs LA Glam Events with her partner Erin Preuss to give us a few pointers. The good news is that with a little planning and creative magic you can host a party everyone (including you) will love!

With the summer party season about to get into full swing starting on Memorial Day Weekend it’s a perfect time to treat your friends to a love-everything-about-summer party that will set the standard for everyone else. (And no, it doesn’t require boatloads of cash or a swank Hampton’s seaside soirees.)

4 easy ways to make your Memorial Day BBQ better than everyone else’s


1) Invites: Evites are ok, Paperless Post is so cool (but pricey) and so why stick to the norm. A trip to the 99 Cents store will yield a plethora of fun and funky ideas. It’s much less expensive than you would think to send unusual invites and it’s a great way to make your party stand out from the rest. Mix and match and let your imagination run wild. It’s half the fun.

2) Food: it’s sort of crucial to a good party. Nothing is more delicious and easy than good old fashion burgers on the grill and burgers don’t have to boring. Add an array of interesting self-serve toppings like sautĂ©ed mushrooms, arugula, bacon, avocado, etc to create a gourmet burger bar. You can even ask people to write down their custom burger, name it and take pictures for your own Burger Hall of Fame.

3) Cocktails: a trip to your local farmers market will start your inner mixologist juices flowing. Take all the favs (fresh squeezed OJ, grapefruit, lemon and lime) throw in some new twists (muddle berries, pineapple or watermelon) and some smoothie-like purees (cantaloupe, honeydew, banana and mango).Use some basic alcohols and set it all out for people to create their own signature cocktail. People love experimenting and the bonus is for the people who are going adult-beverage free they can make a killer virgin version of the same thing.

4) DĂ©cor: for some seriously-talented-crafty types dĂ©cor is a hallmark of their parties. For me, with limited time, dĂ©cor needs to be simple and accessible. My favorite budget friendly dĂ©cor item is cotton quilt fabrics. These fabrics are your new, super crafty best friend. You can make awesome mix and match table overlays (most standard fabrics aren’t wide enough for a full table linen) but they make cute overlays either over whatever linens already have or over plain white sheets hemmed to fit your table. Mix patterns and colors to create a really festive look.

The good news is all these projects are relatively easy and don’t require a bunch of time or money. Just give yourself a week to work on your dĂ©cor projects in the evening and prep your food and juices the morning of your event and you will be able to party-hardy with all your pals!

How We Celebrated “Going Green” in Style

May 17, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

On May 11^th, the women of CRAVEseattle came together to celebrate all things sustainable, and stylish at the very first CRAVEgreen – produced in partnership with See Green Ventures. In the typical CRAVE fashion, this meant a glam gathering of eco-friendly vendors, scrumptious organic food and beverages, all while mingling with other environmentally savvy women. Herban Feast’s Sodo Park venue is both rustic and classic, creating an open and easy vibe for the evening. With the help of Seattle’s Bamboo Beats and the Sisters of Sizzle, guests were entertained as they perused all of the green friendly vendors. We shopped chic fashion, were pampered with mini spa treatments, sampled ridiculously mouth-watering ”Mega-O” chocolates from Dr. Dave,  and learned more about how businesses can operate successfully and consciously.

While sipping on the evening’s crisp specialty cocktail from DRY soda and pur spirits, we watched an innovative and edgy fashion show with looks from NuBe Green, the Green Chair Project, Monster art & clothing, and original pieces from SPU fashion design students. Think you’ve seen it all? One of the dresses was actually made from tea bags!

As the evening wound down, our sizzlin’ and spirited MCs announced our lucky raffle winners. All the proceeds from the evening’s raffle sales went to support women and girls through the Women’s Funding Alliance, so even those who did not win could feel good about participating. Top prizes included gift certificates to organic meals at The Pink Door and Earth & Ocean, and a one night stay at Seattle’s luxurious and sustainable Olive 8 hotel.

All CRAVEgreen guests went home with goodie-filled swag bags (in reusable totes from Lululemon). Inside was everything from small spa products, seed packets, mini notebooks and a Chinook book to encourage continued support of green businesses.

Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make CRAVEgreen a success, and to all the CRAVEseattle women who came out to support the cause- and have some fun!

Check out the photo gallery:

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