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Interview with Karrie Kohlhaas, Thoughtshot Consulting

July 30, 2010 by Elizabeth | Comments (0)

We’ve all done it. Stood in a crowded room of people that we were excited to meet and network with, only to find that the words escape us at the prime moment, or worse yet, no one seems to notice we exist. You’ve got your brand. You’ve definitely got the enthusiasm, but what have you got if no one is paying attention? Shouting from the rooftops of twitter and facebook will only get you so far and eventually you realize that the inevitable is upon you-you’re going to have to talk to someone face to face about your business.

We’ve all felt your pain at CRAVE and we designed our July Business Chat with you in mind as we covered Networking in Real Life-a panel discussion on how to break the ice, make connections, and keep the connections that you make.

We were honored to have Karrie Kohlhass, founder of Thoughtshot Consulting as one of our panel speakers and she has some valuable advice to talk you down off your ledge before you even get there. Stop what you’re doing, turn off the elevator pitch running through your head, take a breathe, and let Karrie tell you how to set the course for successful networking.

Karrie Kohlhass’s approach and background on Thoughshot Consulting
I advise business owners on every aspect of their business, from launch to market, develop to manage, partnering to boundaries…. Instead of focusing on a type of business or a particular area within business, my niche is based on my approach and the type of brain that attracts.

My approach is fast and hard hitting and that draws extremely intelligent and creative people who have big ideas, maybe more than they can handle. Often, they have hit a wall in making their vision of their business match reality. I work one-on-one and also offer workshops. This fall I launch group consulting programs.

What is your business motto?
My current tagline is “Grow Your Business. Smarter” and though I do teach clients how to grow smarter, I feel like my tagline is a little bland. I would like to change it to something like “Consulting with Guts” or “Business on the Edge” because:

A. I routinely risk clients hating me for boldly telling them something that is hard to hear. The way I see it, what is at stake for them is bigger than my desire to be liked.

B. I call my clients forth to be more gutsy in their businesses–being more sassy in their marketing message, taking more risk in negotiations, stepping out of their comfort zone with how they run their business, etc. I like to guide people to their edge and beyond.

What one business mistake will you never make again?
Isolating myself. Working in Chicago with Fortune 500 companies I made myself an island. I had a lot of friends, but few were self employed. When I moved to Seattle, I didn’t know anyone and felt lonely. I joined Biznik and found amazing allies, new ideas, inspiration and a constant flow of clients to boot. I am no longer an island and I am a lot happier. I feel supported in my business now and I see that being an island only held me back.

Your website says you’re not a cookie cutter consultant. What do you mean by that?
My training in cultural anthropology combined with years of product and service research and design for large corporations puts me in a different category than your average MBA. I don’t have an MBA but I have many clients with them. I love those guys and they bring a lot to the table, but sometimes they need a different perspective.
Clients are almost always surprised by what I can see in their business in just one session. I am unpredictable and highly intuitive. 
I view a business as a complex organism. I don’t only focus on one aspect, like marketing or operations, but instead I look at all aspects and how they work (or don’t work) together. I can go deep and still hold the larger picture in view. My anthropology brain is a big part of that–I am always observing, cataloguing, listening from multiple viewpoints. My business brain takes that information and turns it into actions that will move the client’s business forward with velocity. It’s an effective combo.

Networking is so important in business (and in life!) What pointers on Networking in Real Life can you give those of us that are a little bit shy?

Listen first. If you are shy, this should make networking easier for you! Ask good questions and observe the other person from a place of kindness. Listening first allows you to know who your audience is so that when you do talk, you naturally find ways to relate–not just recite your schpeel to them.

Forget what you think “networking” is and just make friends. Listen for points of connection, not opportunities to pitch yourself. The most unlikely connections can lead to long-term business relationships…you both love chiuauas, you both wanted to be Dorothy Hammel growing up, you had a funny conversation about roller derby…People want to do business with people they like.

Wear comfortable clothes. When I am uncomfortable, I am less likely to connect authentically. If I am dressed for an event and feel a little itchy or stiff in my clothes I stop and change into a jeans, a t-shirt and running shoes so I can show up comfortable. People care more about your presence than how fancy you dress.

We loved the Biznik article titled “How to Write an Article like Karrie Kohlhaas’. Can you give us an inside tips?
I didn’t write that article and didn’t know it was written until I saw it published! Someone noticed my articles getting a lot of attention and high ratings so they tried to dissect my writing. The truth is, I don’t have a formula. But here are 3 quick tips for people who want to write better business articles:

Choose targeted topics. People usually pan too wide. Narrow your focus to something very specific. This allows you to get into the nitty gritty and share juicy details.

Use your authentic voice. Instead of writing in the “professional voice” that you think people are expecting, shake it up! It’s more fun to read something that feels conversational.

Don’t be stingy. Many people fear “giving too much away”. Actually, by sharing more valuable information and expertise, you reveal that there is more where than came from. Generosity is attractive.

What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I am a chicken! I’ve never been on a roller coaster. People seem to get this impression that I am fearless. But the truth is, I can’t bring myself to jump off a high dive. I take risks in some areas of life, but I have never been a dare devil.

Top 5 Spa Treatments in the City

July 28, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (0)

From the streamlined interiors, soothing sounds of waterfalls, lavender calming scents, to warm cozy lounges, providing warm tea-all of our senses are encapsulated when we walk into a spa. With multiple spa options to choose from, we have comprised a CRAVE-worthy list to help you reach optimal relaxation from head to toe.

Habitude
Habitude is a full-service salon that combines nature, with modern techniques to provide the one of best all around spa experience in one building. Inez Gray, owner of Habitude, and her team are highly qualified professionals. This Summer they have created an exclusive seasonal menu entitled “Escape to the Orient”. It is the definite staycation- an at home vacation-transporting you to exotic China through spa experiences! Show off you best locks this Summer with a Hong Kong Hair Repair treatment to revitalize both your scalp and hair!

Spa Blix
Owner Suzanne Buchanan believes beauty is not simply the physical appearance of a person, but more that individuals perceive themselves. She created Spa Blix to achieve physical health and well-being promote a positive feeling that radiates beyond the guest and carries over into family life, work relationships, and all aspects of human interaction. Let Spa Blix help you radiate this summer with a Four Layer Facial that will tighten and brighten the skin for a youthful glow!

Vida Spa
The streamlined accents of nature found in the interior of Vida Spa will allow you put your mind and body at ease. Here you will find treatments tailored and designed to restore energy and promote well-being for every guest that walk through the doors. Choose from a range of traditional body therapies, facials, wraps and exfoliation. We CRAVE the Coconut Refresh Massage at Vida Spa to relax overworked muscles, and to escape into Summer .

Spa Scotta
Spa Scotta, Seattle’s award-winning day spa, provides a warm, welcoming environment that embraces you from the moment you walk in the door. Owner, Jessica Campbell’s professionally trained staff is dedicated to providing the best, beneficial services to each client. Spa Scotta offers a full range of treatments including, skin care, massage, manicures, pedicures, spray tanning, and waxing. Get your legs mini skirt ready and book a waxing treatment by Spa Scotta!

Ummelina International Day Spa
As you drift into Ummelina, international influences are prevalent in both the décor, and in the spa services provided. Nina Ummel brings global rituals to the Northwest with unique treatments that are remembered for a lifetime. When you spend your day at Ummelina you will be transcended into a new world of relaxation. Recline in a comfortable treatment bed. After a long work week your hands and feet CRAVE the uplifting Seaweed Manicure and Pedicure.

The Girl’s Guide to Beer

July 26, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (1)

On a sweltering summer day at the ballpark or a friend’s BBQ, nothing is more refreshing than an ice-cold brew. This summer ditch that prissy pink cocktail and back away from the Budweiser. With a little beer savvy you can discover some great brews that will satisfy your taste buds and impress even the guys.

There are 4 main ingredients in beer: grain, yeast, water and hops, but the creativity when it comes to brewing is endless. There are beers with fruit, smoked beers, beer made with chocolate and even beer brewed with bacon. Navigating your way through the numerous types and styles of beer can be daunting, but here are some helpful hints about the most popular styles that can help you choose a winner for your next potluck or outdoor summer event. Who said beer had to be just for the boys? Go ahead, embrace that summer night CRAVING.

India Pale Ale (IPA): This beer has a light pale to golden color. Its crisp bitter flavor is attributed to the high hops and alcohol content which helped preserve the beer during the long journey across the ocean when British brewers began to export to India.
Try: Lagunitas IPA, Lagunitas Brewing Co, Petaluma, CA, 5.7% Alcohol by Volume (ABV)
Drink with: Spicy foods like a Thai Yellow Vegetable Curry

Hefeweizen: Perfect for summer, this German style wheat beer is distinguished by fruity notes, cloudy appearance and high carbonation. This beer is usually served with a slice of lemon and its bright flavor is often accented by citrus, banana, clove or nutmeg flavors.
Try: Widmer Hefeweizen, Widmer Brothers Brewing, Portland, OR, 4.7% ABV
Drink with: Classic German food such as chicken sausage topped with brown mustard or a salad tossed with candied pecans and feta.

Stout: Familiar to many because of the popularity of Guinness, Stouts have a heavy body and are very dark in color. This beer has a high alcohol content and is often characterized by caramel, coffee, chocolate or even oatmeal flavors.
Try: Chocolate Stout, Rouge Brewery, Portland OR, 6.3% ABV
Eat with: This beer could be a meal in itself, but pairs nicely with desserts like tiramisu.

Pilsner: This all American beer represents nearly 90% of the major beer brands sold in the U.S. Pilsner is golden in color and tends to have a light, clean, drinkable flavor sometimes compared to toast or fresh bread.
Try: Prima Pils, Victory Brewing Company, Downington, PA, 5.3% ABV
Eat with: All American foods like hearty chili or a grilled burger and fries

Brews to CRAVE this summer
Sierra Nevada Summerfest
New Belgium Skinny Dip
Anderson Valley Brewing Co., Summer Solstice Cerveza Crema

This is by no means a complete list of all the styles out there so experiment, go to a brew festival this summer, and discover which styles and breweries make you CRAVE more. For a fun new adventure, why not grab your beer drinking gal pals and do a brewery tour? Try this for a fun weekend or birthday activity. For more information on beer and the female movers and shakers in the beer industry, check out the Pink Boots Society at pinkbootssociety.org.

*written by Alyssa Goldberg for the CRAVE company. Alyssa is a lover of all things to do with food and travel- check out her blog, WorldSavour by clicking here.

Interview with Kerrie Lynn from Olive

July 23, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (0)

Owner’s and fashion “crazies” Kerrie Lynn Wilton and Michele Fox opened Olive boutique in Redmond. They developed a beautiful clothing assortment built on personal aesthetic, and core principles of comfort with fabulous style. At Olive discover how rocker chic and luxuriously classic pieces create a perfectly crafted wardrobe. Kerrie Lynn expresses what sparked her love of fashion and what inspires her own personal style.

What was the spark your love for fashion?
Putting on my mother’s high heel shoes when I was around 5. I still remember that feeling of how just adding something different to my outfit made me feel fabulous. Even if it was a pair of old high heels and my old summer dress.

Who is your fashion icon?
Jennifer Anniston. She always looks amazing. Even when running to the grocery store she still has style when wearing just a basic white tee with a pair of jeans. She is casual style personified.

What is your go-to ensemble and your favorite statement jewelry piece?
For everyday it would be my distressed AG skinny jeans rolled up with a Wilt boyfriend tee. For a date it would be any top from Sky with skinny jeans. For a special event it would be anything one shoulder from Susana Monaco.

Are there any events coming up this Summer for Olive?
We have our monthly Girls Night Events the 2nd Tuesday of the month. We serve wine, champagne and appetizers for our gals. In August we will feature a personal stylist to help with some of the new Fall fashions.

Develop your new Fall wardrobe with a personal stylist consultation at Olive!

We CRAVE personalized style!

July 21, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (0)

Is getting dressed in the morning a source of anxiety? Standing in front of your closet feeling like you have nothing to wear? We are revealing some of Seattle’s finest stylist to help you with your fashion dilemma! Do you CRAVE a path to defining your personal style, transitioning into a more sophisticated style, or creating a professional business image? Turn to these lovely ladies for personal wardrobe consulting!

Darcy Camden
To define your personal style for any event we CRAVE the assistance of Darcy Camden. She has worked as a wardrobe stylist, fashion editor and image consultant in the Seattle area for over 6 years. Darcy Camden created Styled.Seattle in 2006 and joined forces with the Trunk Club in 2008, with the goal to help every man and woman harness the power of personal style. Darcy has the ability to translate high fashion trends to customize them for her clients daily fashion needs. Book your personal consultation today!

Tannya Bernadette
Are you making a lifestyle transition-from college to a new job, or transitioning into different industries? Tannya Bernadette creates professional wardrobes to help you make a smooth transition. She is a professional “wardrobe therapist” and makes getting dressed a more beneficial and empowering experience. Tannya Bernadette makes a connection of your past, and present to reconnect your image with your personality. Tannya specializes wardrobe therapy in studio, on location, and in editorials. Book your initial consultation to create a luxe wardrobe on any budget with Tannya Bernadette!

Rebecca Luke
Rebecca Luke created Les Egoistes LLC with a mission to create, communicate, and manage every aspect of a clients image. It’s an image based creative services company based in Seattle, with a studio in New York City, that offers complete image packages for a client base across the country. Drawing on a background of fashion, Rebecca Luke and team provide for all creative needs to make a client’s image, product, business or idea successful. Create your ultimate image package that will allow you to focus on the business at hand and accomplish the goals you’ve set with Les Egoistes LLC!

Bloggers To Watch Out For: Career Coaches

July 19, 2010 by Lilla | Comments (0)

Over the past few months, the number of people quitting their jobs was greater than the number of people losing their jobs. Savvy quitters build a support network before they take the plunge, and brilliant quitters enlist professional help. Enter: the Certified Career Coach. One part therapist. One part cheerleader. Two parts butt-kicking taskmaster.

Need a solid coach in your corner of the ring? Michelle Ward, Dyana Valentine and Chrissy Scivicque are at the top of their game.

Michelle Ward of When I Grow Up
whenigrowupcoach.com
I’ll admit it — I’m a tad biased in Michelle’s favor. She coached me out of my cubicle doldrums and into freelance bliss, so I owe her my firstborn child. A graduate of NYU / Tisch’s musical theater program and a certified life coach, Michelle brings theatrical flair and a “wagon full of enthusiasm” to every session. She recently raised her rates and is poised to explode, so book a free 30-minute consultation call while you still can.

For a weekly dose of self-exploration, bookmark Michelle’s ongoing blog feature: Tough Question Tuesday.

Dyana Valentine
dyanavalentine.com
Generous. Ambitious. A master of personal marketing. Dyana leads by example, and her clients feel the heat. By her own admission, Ms. Valentine’s coaching style is “not for the weak of heart.” She prides herself on helping self-starters finish what they started, using Community Psychology principles to light the way. As one client put it, “if I had to be shipwrecked on a desert island, I’d want Dyana with me.”

For a no-holds-barred explanation of the power of “no,” check out Dyana’s article on “No-gotiation.”

Chrissy Scivicque of Eat Your Career
eatyourcareer.com
Chrissy serves up a powerhouse combo platter — she’s a certified nutritionist AND an experienced career coach. Yum. As the creator of Office Arrow — a popular resource for administrative professionals — Chrissy has a firsthand grasp on the challenges of running an online business. She’s a clear communicator with a nourishing perspective on life, love and work — and all the snacks in between.

For a trio of tasty coaching treats, download Chrissy Scivicque’s free workbooks on stress management, time management and career reinvention.

ALEXANDRA FRANZEN is a writer + editor + organization freak. She designs rockstar resumes, leads personal branding jam sessions, writes marketing copy and teaches wallflowers how to hustle like a gangsta’. You can find her blogging up a storm at Unicorns for Socialism and tweeting away @alex_franzen.

Yes, You Too Can Love Networking

July 15, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

CRAVE Seattle is excited to feature Biznik Co-founder Lara Feltin as one of our expert panelists for “Networking IRL (In Real Life)”, this months Business Chat taking place Sunday, July 18^th. Lara was recently featured in Seattle Woman Magazine and recognized as a Leader in Seattle’s Social Media Scene. Learn about about what inspired Lara to launch her own business and what fuels her fire. Visit Biznik here!

Why did you decide to launch Biznik in 2005?
In the spring of 2005… I sat my husband of 4 months (Dan McComb) down and asked, “Honey, what are you doing to grow your business?” We were both self-employed, running small indie businesses – and feeling isolated. “Maybe we should try more networking…”

Dan’s response, “Ugh. Do we have to? Networking sucks.” We’ve all had this reaction. When “networking” is synonymous with reciting your elevator pitch to a group of strangers, or collecting anonymous business cards and fending off pushy sales tactics, it *does* suck.

We were craving a community of other business people we could share resources, questions, ideas and collaboration with. We couldn’t find any networking out there that we wanted to be a part of, so we created our own.

Biznik is not a place to find referrals or seek new clients. Biznik is a community of like-minded professional peers where you can build relationships, strengthen your reputation and establish your expertise. In the era of social media, conversations with your peers are as important as conversations with your customers – if not more so. Promotion happens through conversations.

We love that “Business Networking that Doesn’t Suck” is the Biznik motto. What made you decide to move forward with that mantra?
It’s what motivated us to start Biznik in the first place, and it’s kept us true to our path. While “Business Networking That Doesn’t Suck” is our official tagline, we’ve also used: “Going it alone, Together” and “Collaboration Beats Competition”

What motivates you?
I’m motivated by the SBA statistic that 50% of businesses fail in the first 5 years. Building a business by yourself is hard lonely work. Let’s do what we can to keep each other in business!

One way to do that is to stop avoiding other micropreneurs who appear to be doing the same thing as you. If you’re good at what you do and you develop a niche that’s unique to your experiences and talents, your so-called competitors can be viewed as conspirators – some may even become collaborators or partners.

What one business mistake will you never make again?
When I started out as an independent photographer I was scared to reach out to other photographers with questions. I had some strange concept that their experience was a “trade secret”, that they’d view me as competition and wouldn’t want to talk to me. But you can’t build anything in isolation removed from others. You must reach out to others. We must support one another and there’s lots of ways to do that without giving away any of your marketing advantages or trade secrets.

Congrats on your recent feature in Seattle Woman Magazine! How does it feel to be recognized as a Leader in Social Media?
It’s always rewarding to be acknowledged for 5 years of hard work. I wouldn’t have achieved the status of “leader” without the Biznik community’s involvement, and Dan, the cofounder’s, contributions. And I am honored to be counted along side 3 other extraordinary social media mavens. Monica, Shauna and Tracy have done some incredible things with social media that I can learn from.

Networking is so important in business (and in life!). What pointers on Networking in Real Life can you give those of us that are a little bit shy?
Recognize that you have more in common with other small business people than you realize and chances are they’re as shy as you. So be authentic. Come right out and say, “I’m not sure if there’s a right way to approach you…” or “I don’t have anything specific to discuss with you, but I like what you’re doing and I’d like to get to know you.” Then invite them to meet you at a Biznik networking event. Choose one where you can talk to each other, but if you don’t hit if off, the two of you can separate and meet others.

What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I’ve been attending Burning Man since 2001 and I met Dan (my husband) in the local Burning Man scene. We’ve been 7 times and much of the ethos of Biznik is based on our experience participating in a 80-person theme camp that collectively built a number of large scale art installations. In the burner community participation is social capital. There are no spectators and their motto includes, “Radical Participation. Radical Self Reliance. Radical Self Expression.” Biznik is a place for Radical Self Promotion.

We CRAVE Connectors

July 14, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (0)

When running a business (or just running your life), you are constantly making new connections. Whether you are heading up an event, composing a website or publicizing your blog- you are building up your network of people you need to know. We are constantly craving assistance from professionals that can give us good advice and help us grow. We have scoured the Seattle area and found your go-to gurus for creating connections!

Seattle Picks
Trying to deviate from the beaten paths of well-know shopping centers, restaurants, hangouts, products, and services? Sign up Seattle Picks free, subscription-driven weekly publication, sent out via e-mail and then updated on the homepage. Founder, Kathi O’Neil and her team scoured the city to reveal “City Secrets” to give local recommendations, hints, and finds to liven up your weekend! It’s life & style updates every Friday! Sign up for Seattle Picks’ newsletters to find the best of what Seattle has to offer.

Girl Power Hour
Girl Power Hour is going out with a purpose! They hold events at exciting venues across Seattle and the Eastside at exciting venues every third Thursday of the month. These events are created for successful women only. It allows women throughout the community to come together for a fabulous evening devoted to sharing ideas, building connections, and making new friends. Girl Power Hour was launched by Darnell Sue & Samantha Lawton in September 2007. Their philosophy is, “We believe that women are natural networkers, especially in the kind of comfortable, non-threatening environment Girl Power Hour provides”. Sign up now for their “Girlletter” to receive updates and invites to Girl Power Hour events! On July 12, they kicked-off a Girl Power Hour Membership program to receive special perks and specials! Sign up now! This is where social circles collide!

Biznik
Connect with Lara Eve Feltin of Biznik! She started Biznik to facilitate a community of local, independent business people using both online and offline platforms to help grow and support one another. It’s about “business networking that doesn’t suck!” It’s difficult to grow a small business on your own, turn to this online community to meet real individuals and business. Not only is this a strong online community, but Biznik holds face-to-face events to help individuals share ideas to help grow profitability. Start benefiting from the fabulous, and ingenious business professionals today!

Ladies Who Launch
Join over 100,000 women in the Ladies Who Launch online community. It is the first new media company to provide resources and connections for women entrepreneurs. Victoria Colligan is the Founder of Ladies Who Launch. This is a professional group provides mentoring, workshops and advice for women who are considering starting a small business. Do you have a passion to start your own company? Or turn your side job/hobby into a real business? Visit Ladies Who Launch to find advice and resources. They offer over 100 pre-screened business that will serve as vital resources in the development of your own potential company. The group also hosts event workshops twice a month. Join one of the largest community of women entrepreneurs now!

Classy and Fabulous: Meet piastyle

July 12, 2010 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

Besides being a high level personal stylist, Pia Jacobsen can now add author to her list of accomplishments. Pia’s style is classic and chic, and she helps her clients create a coordinated wardrobe that reflects their personal tastes with a refined touch. Her new book “pia…me” is Pia’s answer to some of the “questionable choices” made by women she has seen, and is aimed at helping women to develop their own personal style. At CRAVE we respect any woman who isn’t afraid to call it like shes sees it. Read our interview with Pia for an inside fashion scoop. Click here to find Pia’s book!

What are your wardrobe staples?
I’m pretty classic, personally. I have a uniform that is primarily black in the winter, white in the summer. It’s calming to me.

What do you think is the worst fashion trend right now?
I don’t know if it is so much a trend as a mistake. Bra straps, particularly the industrial strength ones are not meant to be seen. Check the rear view, choose the right kind of bra, or have lingerie straps sewn into your clothes. This trend is like a recurring nightmare.

Trends are best when they become ….
Not trendy. When a trend lasts more than a season or two, and becomes part of the fashion vernacular, it means it works, or at least appeals to a lot of women. I don’t believe in investing a lot of money in a trendy item. However, when it has proven itself after a season or two, and it works for you, buy the best quality you can afford.

What is an easy piece of style advice you wish more women would follow?
After you are completely dressed and accessorized, look in the mirror and take one thing off. A little goes a long way.

What was the hardest part about writing your book?
Letting it go.

What do you want your readers to get out of reading “pia….me”?
I want my readers to understand that while it is important to care about how you look, and to put your best foot forward, it is just a means to becoming all you can be. It is infinitely more important to learn to like yourself, to live with confidence, to establish boundaries, to live your dreams and to become self sufficient. As I say in my lectures, “walk the goddess walk”.

As a fashion stylist, how do you separate your personal taste when you are dressing a client?
That is relatively easy, actually. I know my personal taste, and am very confident about it, so I am not swayed easily by trends or other influences. But because I love fashion, I can appreciate a wide variety of looks even though they may not work for me personally. I pay close attention to what my client loves in her existing wardrobe, and what her needs are in terms of travel, events, and lifestyle. Fashion, like art, should conjure up an emotional response. Her clothing should make her feel fabulous, and serve to enhance her experiences. That’s my job.

If you weren’t working in the fashion world you would be_______?
A floral designer. Hopefully, a very avant-garde floral designer living in Paris, or possibly a landscape designer on Capri.

What do you CRAVE?
Nothing material at this point in my life. I CRAVE love, friendship, honesty, Fran’s sea salt caramels, and my body at age 19.

Keep tabs on Pia’s latest fashion updates online:
Website
Blog
Twitter
Facebook

*This publication was sent to the CRAVE company for review.

Meet Lori Hastings from Recipe Runway

July 9, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (0)

Whether it’s cherished family recipes or recipes from experts chefs, at CRAVE we’re guilty of accumulating massive amounts of recipes that we have no idea how to keep track of. Thank goodness for Recipe Runway , a great service that helps preserve and collect all your fabulous recipes.  This week Lori Hastings, founder of Recipe Runway, shares her love of food, recipes, inspiration, and business lessons with the CRAVE community.

What was your inspiration for Recipe Runway?
The inspiration was due to my passion for recipe collecting. This passion grew into 3000 loose recipes in messy folders and 1500 plus cookbooks. I collected my way right into my business – what do I do with my cherished recipes? I had an unorganized treasure of fabulous recipes that I could not locate quickly, or share with family and friends in an efficient manner. I also wanted a way to preserve the handwritten recipes stains and all along with all my magazine tear outs I had collected.

What is your viewpoint on cooking?
Master a technique of cooking that you truly like. Mastering recipes in that technique is where you will gain your confidence. Then learn another technique. Be willing to experiment with new ingredients even if you don’t get the desired result. Most of all have fun with it.

I happen to love quick pan sauces. I have mastered this technique and cooked my way into some very signature sauces that I can count on every time. I enjoy the process.

I also believe you must always sprinkle ambiance into the equation. So have fun with the process, enjoy creating ambiance, know a few delicious recipes, master more when you’re ready and be totally present with your family or guests when you sit down together to eat.

What mistakes have you made in your business that you will not repeat?
Not trusting my intuition – even when it was giving me the warning signals. I now honor this gift that we women have been blessed with. The other learning lesson that I do now very diligently but wished I had started sooner is being very strategic about each day. Busy is not business, but correct strategy and correction action is.

What would people be surprised to know about you?
I would love to write a murder mystery novel that takes place in Italy while attending a world recipe exchange conference. I’m the recipe sleuth that solves this murder mystery. Of course the novel would be spiced up with many delicious recipes and interesting foodies.

What do you CRAVE during the summer season?
I always CRAVE a wonderful picnic. My basket would be full of fresh apricots, juicy peaches and luscious strawberries with a light citrus cream sauce for dipping. Sandwiches full of fresh produce from the nearest farmers market – like red and yellow peppers, eggplant, and tomatoes (roasted) topped with wonderful cheese, olives, basil and watercress – served on crusty fresh artisan bread with a variety of spread options. There would be a colorful orzo salad, along with grilled off chicken skewers with peanut sauce. (all of it made by scratch).

I always make spice cake with caramel icing for every picnic basket. It travels well and is a delight to the palette. That is my summer CRAVE–a delicious picnic, a beautiful hike with good friends and good conversation and ended on a sweet note – spice cake!

What is the most exciting project Recipe Runway is working on right now?
Thank you for asking that. We are about to launch a WebTV program the end of July which is just around the corner. The program is all about the romance of food and the nostalgia of family. It is such a fun project. It is such a compliment to Recipe Runway. The show continues the conversation about all things food. It is a wonderful and entertaining show about a subject that never ends – food. Stay tuned!

Try your free trial of Recipe Runway here!

“Continue to collect and connect” -Lori Hastings

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