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Planning a lavish Soiree?

September 3, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (1)

Planning a lavish soiree? Turn to event planning, coordinating, and production experts Half Past Lavish! From breath-taking venues to creating unforgettable memories, Half Past Lavish is there every step of the way to create your dream event! The HPL team brings an eclectic, sophisticated, and unique spin to every event they produce. They are dedicated to every client. They plan stylish soirees- from business meetings to baby yoga! And today Courtney Russell, founder and publisher, shares with CRAVE how her journey led her to find her “glass slipper of a career”, and how Half Past Lavish has evolved!

How did you get your start behind the industry?
My background is in theater and higher education event management. I was lucky enough to attend this amazing, non-traditional school in Upstate NY, Odyssey Academy, where I had so many opportunities that I wouldn’t have had at other schools. The teachers really encouraged me to explore my passions, so, for example, I was directing school theater productions by the time I was in the 9^th grade. Multi-tasking was probably the best skill I learned in high school that prepared me for my career. Fast forward through college, where I was an English and Theater major and in positions in higher education that required event planning, through Grad School, where, again, I worked in higher education event management, and on to Seattle where I moved in 2005. I continued to work in theater and higher education, and building up my network and a variety of contract event projects it seemed time to “open up shop” and make Half Past Lavish official. We work closely with the local fashion and arts industries, and I’m the new Regional Director of Fashion Group International – Seattle.

What is the inspiration behind Half Past Lavish?
A little eclectic, sophisticated, and unique. Those are all qualities I believe Half Past Lavish embodies. We’re happy to plan your business meeting or luncheon, and we’ll give you 110% no matter what type of event you are planning, but Half Past Lavish brings a little more to the table. With our background, experience, skill set, and creativity we can produce your event, not just coordinate it or plan it. Often, our clients are looking for the coordination, planning, and design, which is Half Past Lavish – the full package and more. We’re a sophisticated, high-end event production company, but not intimidating and we’re not the least bit above the grunt work to make our clients event a success; we just can do it all!

How did you develop your relationship with the vendors you coordinate events with?
Often because we work on an event together, but I have also found that networking really is the key to success. If I see a vendor, company, or new business that impresses me in a blog, out in the community, etc. I make sure I send an email or stop by and say hello. I know we all are doing what we love, but owning your own business is insanely hard work, and I like to support my peers in the industry.

Who are your major vendors?
We work with a lot of vendors, and even though I do have some faves. I try to keep expanding our network. Some vendors I adore are Starry Nights Catering in Kirkland. They make the most delicious cakes, and they are my go-to for custom color and flavored French macarons (one of my absolute favorite treats to put on dessert tables).

• We love Danielle Bortone-Holt of Brick House Photography. We’ve been working with her since we produced our first Half Past Lavish sponsored fashion show up in Capitol Hill a few years ago. Barbie Hull and Marcelina Tyee also shoot amazing work and are super sweet!
• Venues – Love Herban Feast Sodo Park, The Engine Room at Georgetown Studios, the Clise Mansion is lovely for weddings.
• Florists – Christopher at Christopher Flowers creates stunning arrangements and is super nice! Judi of Fena Florist has been in the industry a long time, and I’ve enjoyed working with her on past events.
• DJs- Brian of WaveLink knows the DJ biz inside and out. Elliott Bay DJs and Bamboo Beats are also at the top of my list.
• Salons – MODE Organic, for sure, hands down, amazing.
• Other – Jennifer Shea has turned the cupcake industry upside down (like her delicious pineapple upside down cupcakes!), and I love supporting Trophy every time I have a dessert bar to set up or need to order cupcakes.

Do you have a favorite type of event to plan?
Very hard question as I truly do enjoy working on pretty much any type of event you can throw at me. While I thrive off of the organization and detail that you need to have as a planner, my favorite element of my work is the design – the look and feel of an event. It really does feel magical to see a vision and idea come to life. I also love working with the people – clients, vendors, my staff, student interns, the media, etc. It takes a village to pull off a successful event, and I love that opportunity to work with such a large team.

I also love that my job is always changing. I’ve realized a consistent position in an office stifles me. I love seeing a project through from start to finish, and then moving on to the next project. I like the variety and the opportunity it affords me in my career.

I always say, I knew Event Production was my “glass slipper of a career” because it allows me the opportunity to use both sides of my brain, and it really is so true. I love my job. I really, really love it!

What are some future events does Half Past Lavish planning for this Fall season?
We are so excited about the 3^rd annual EcoLavish Fashion Show coming up on November 11, 2010 at Herban Feast Sodo Park. EcoLavish is one of Half Past Lavish’s signature events, meaning the company developed the event and produces it as a stand alone concept event, rather than for a specific client. It’s the only annual eco-conscious fashion show in the city, and we work really hard to educate the audience that eco-friendly clothing can be stylish. Too often do we hear that people assume that eco-friendly clothing is either unfashionable and boring or they assume we must be sending models down the runway in garbage bags and reused trash. Our designers work is beautiful, functional, and NOT boring. Plus, each year we showcase new designers and we are always mindful to vary the collections so there should be something on the runway that appeals to everyone in the room.

I could go on and on about EcoLavish, but better yet, buy a ticket and come this year! We’ve kept our ticket prices incredibly low (only $25) to be sure everyone in our audience, from students to fellow designers, can be apart of such an incredible night. Click to find for more details and tickets!

On September 23, 2010 from 6pm – 9pm, we’ve partnered with some great vendors to host an open house at Starry Nights Catering for winter and holiday parties. The theme plays off of Art Deco/Nouveau with some Moulin Rouge-esque elements thrown in the mix. We’ll have a super fun photobooth with props, amazing food and desserts and more. It’s a complimentary event for guests who are planning holiday parties, office parties, weddings, or any type of event and are looking for inspiration and some fabulous vendors to work with. To RSVP, CRAVE readers would just need to send an email and we’ll get them on the list.

We have a handful of private events this fall and winter, but another event we can invite CRAVE readers to is the Providence O Christmas Tree treeview and gala. Each year Providence holds an annual fund-raising gala at the Westin in Seattle. We were asked to design a tree last year and are delighted to be back again this year. This year’s theme is “Cupcakes Galore!” I’m a big, big fan of the tasty treats and think this will be a very colorful, fun tree. More information on the series of events for OChristmas Tree can be found on their Facebook page!

Facebook page:

And, lastly, our next issue of SOIREE will come out in the beginning of November. To stay up-to-date on the happenings behind SOIREE and a chance to win some cool prizes check out our site & blog.

Fall into Fitness!

August 25, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (1)

Fall is just around the corner, its the perfect time to refocus on your health and fitness goals. We CRAVE outdoor activities and the crisp, cool air of the season! We know how hard it can be to stick with fitness and weight loss goals with schedules picking up, it can be easy to be sidetracked from your goals. Don’t wait till New Year’s to reclaim another fitness resolution. Turn to some of Seattle’s best fitness leaders to help design your new routine and reach your optimal level of health!

Sassy Fit
Have you spent hundreds on a personal trainer at the gym? You start off great, but you find yourself rescheduling due to personal schedule interferences. Sassy Fit is your solution! Sassy Fit is a mobile, personal training to help reach busy women reach their fitness goals. Owner Kelly Singer and co-owner, Bri Cooper both have a passion for health and fitness. Every week they, and their highly-trained staff meet with clients to create new routines to avoid workout boredom, and inconsistency. Having a Sassy Fit trainer will keep you on schedule! Starting in September they will also offer indoor boot camp classes as well! Choose from their Sassy Programs today!

Running Evolution
Have you always wanted to develop a running routine, but don’t know where to start? Turn to Running Evolution, created and instructed by Coach Beth. She has personally transformed over a hundred certified couch potatoes to 5K runners! Running Evolution offers group coaching, learn to run clinics, boot camp, to individuals who want to learn to run, as well as classes to get faster with an accessible, structured speed workout. Learn more about the programs and schedules here!

Happy Hour by Marisa
Has weight loss been a relentless battle? Have you continuously tried to beat the battle of the bulge and lost? Marisa Mancke, creator and owner of Happy Hour by Marisa, has designed a program for you! She offers personal training that can be tailored by budget a time restraints, group classes, and cardio striptease. Happy Hour was designed as a fun, stress-free time, an “adult recess”. Working out doesn’t have to be boring! Let Happy Hour by Marisa be a time to discover what you love!

Divine Bronzed Beautiful Skin!

August 18, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (0)

Now that the sun is beaming down on us and its hotter than ever, we enjoy soaking it up as much as possible! We CRAVE tan, bronzed skin! However, we all know how dangerous long exposure to the sun can be. We listened to the health warnings, and a lot of us then turned to tanning beds. However, we then learned the harmful effects of tanning beds. So how is a girl supposed to keep her tan in the Northwest? Divine Sunless Tanning is a luxe solution to all our skin and health worries.

About Divine Sunless Tanning-
Divine Sunless Tanning is a mobile, spray tanning service. The carefully trained staff ensures clients will get the best, longest lasting color. They determine what works best for your lifestyle! Whether you are you prepping for your wedding day or just want to maintain your Summer glow throughout the year; Divine will completely customize your service.

Luxurious Ingredients-
Not only is your airbrush tan customized for you, Divine Sunless Tanning guarantees the highest quality of ingredients. For every tan they use Eco-Cert and natural solutions with Organic ingredients from Europe since 2008. Your skin gets a vitamin infused treatment while your sunless glow process’s for the ultimate treat!

Pamper you, and your girlfriends-
Treat you and your girlfriends to a Girly Glow party, Bridal Glow, or Divine Girl Fun Night! The result of a Divine tan will be gorgeous, glowing, nourished skin! Let Divine Sunless Tanning be your solution for the safest, sunless alternative! Book your appointment today!

Furrow less, and Furlesse for smoother skin!

August 17, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (0)

Are you looking for a non-invasive, affordable alternative to diminish frown lines? Do you CRAVE smoother, youthful looking skin? Turn to Furlesse patches! Cathy Tousley, founder of Furlesse, explains the inspiration and technology behind the patches. She also delves into exciting endeavors for the new company.

Please share with the reader’s what inspired the creation of Furlesse?
I’ve been fascinated by various methods people have used to reduce their frown lines with such household products as Scotch tape. I’ve thought throughout the years how great it would be to have something fitted for the forehead area and be intended for the skin.

It is such a great alternative to an invasive surgery, can you further explain the technology & benefits behind Furlesse?
Our simple-to-use, no-needle solution to relaxing frown lines between the eyes is latex-free and hypoallergenic. The transparent patch was designed to fit any forehead, be applied easily and removed in seconds without irritation. The patches are an affordable, more natural and obvious solution for those looking to diminish fine frown lines.

What was the first retail location? And where can customers find tShe Furlesse patches besides online?
Our first large retailer is soon to be Amazon. We are also available at various independent beauty retailers and spas.

Do you have any future expansions or exciting events for your company in the near future?
Being a very new company, we’re so happy to be apart of the CRAVE Summer Party. We’ve also had a presence at the last Girl Power Hour event and with more to come.

What are you looking forward to the most at the CRAVE Summer Party?
I’m so excited to get the word out about my new product. I love using Furlesse and I know others will too. It’s so nice to wake up to smoother more refreshed skin!

Learn more about Furlesse pathches here!

Stop workout boredom & Get Sassy!

August 15, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (0)

Are you feeling like a hamster on a wheel while doing your cardio? Are you ready to re-design your fitness routine? Que Sassy Fit! Co-owner Bri Cooper recently sat down with CRAVE to share her passion for health & fitness, and explains how her drive for healthy living at a young age sparked her career path. Bri also shares how she and the Sassy team help busy women all around the city reach their optimal levels of health.

What sparked your love of health & fitness?
I grew up as a gymnast, so having an active lifestyle was instilled in me at a very young age. It wasn’t until college where I realized I needed to find something new as an adult that I could stay consistent with.Variety is what I love most about fitness, it keeps me entertained and on my toes, so mixing strength training and yoga into my triathlon training keeps my spark going!

How did you get started with Sassy Fit?
Kelly Singer (Founder of Sassy Fit) initially hired me on as a trainer in 2008 in an exciting time as the company was seeing strong growth. Over the next several months I had the opportunity to work closely with Kelly and was convinced I wanted to become more involved with the company. We both saw a partnership as an opportunity for further growth and I became co-owner in January 2010.

What is the greatest advantage of the mobile personal training as opposed to personal training at a gym?
We live in a fast paced society, which can make it challenging to devote time to ourselves and our health. Having a designated trainer who comes to your home on your schedule can be priceless (not to mention it doesn’t require a gym membership fee, the pain of having to transport yourself to and from your gym or packing a Mary-Poppins-style-bag full of your essentials to get ready for the day.) It’s convenient, and you can’t not show up, because we come to you

What are some of the greatest fitness mistakes you see people make?
Not changing up their routine, and being inconsistent.  A Sassy Fit trainer takes care of both these obstacles by creating customized workouts each month to challenge you in new ways, and knocking on your door each week to keep you on schedule.

What lifestyle changes do clients need to make in order to attain their fitness goals?
Exactly that, to understand that it’s a lifestyle, not a crash diet, or a temporary solution. Fueling your body with nutritious foods and plenty of water, exercising on a regular basis and getting a healthy amount of sleep each night are the simple keys to success. Ready. Set. GO!

Are there any up & coming Sassy Fit events your would like to share with CRAVE readers?
We also offer boot camp classes which will be moving back indoors at our Sassy Fit studio in September. Each class offers a mix of strength training with cardio for a full body sculpting session. We understand the female body and we design our boot camps to challenge each woman individually for maximum results.

We have several fun events planned for this fall and winter.  Stay up to date with the latest happenings here!

Seattle’s secrets revealed

August 13, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (0)

Are you looking for the inside scoop on Seattle’s best kept secrets-boutiques, restaurants, and events? Seattlepicks.com is your source for the cities hidden gems. Seattle Picks is a free, subscription-driven weekly publication, sent out every Friday via email and then updated on their homepage. Dana Peterson, Managing editor for Seattle Picks shares with CRAVE the process of how selecting the most fabulous companies unfold.

Can you tell me about your background as an editor? How did you get started in the industry?
I began my career in media as a television newscast producer. Since I moved to Seattle in 2002, I have worked at almost every television station in the city. As a producer it was my job to decide what stories would appear in the newscast, including reporter stories. While in TV, I honed my skills in creative writing and story selection—two key components in my new job with Seattle Picks. I joined Seattle Picks as managing editor in July of this year and I am loving every minute of it! I get excited to share with our readers the amazing local businesses, products, and events we find each week.

What is the greatest advantage for an online publication as versus a weekly newspaper?
The greatest advantage Seattle Picks has as an online publication is that the information we share with our readers is always right at their finger tips. We have an amazing archive system so our readers can look up products or businesses they read about months or even years ago in a matter of seconds—something a newspaper can’t do.

What do you look for in contributing writers? Is there a specific writing style you look for?
Funny, flirty, and in the know when it comes to what’s going on in fashion in and out of Seattle—those are the main qualities we look for in our writers. We want our readers to feel like they are hearing the inside scoop from their best friend when they read our issues.

I noticed this week you are featuring “Seattle Picks Summer Essentials” how do you develop themes per week? Is it a collaborative team effort?
We base our theme issues around excellent shopping opportunities. Summer is a fantastic time to find great deals so that is why we did our Summer Essentials Guide. We also do special issues around the holidays, Mother’s Day, and Valentine’s Day.

How do you select the companies to feature?
It’s pretty simple—we have to love them. Our readers count on us to bring them the best of the best when it comes to local businesses, products, and events, and that is exactly what we do.

What are you looking forward to the most about the CRAVE Summer Party?
The shopping! Don’t get me wrong, I can’t wait to catch up with some old friends and of course make new ones, but my first love is all the products. The CRAVE Summer Party is the perfect place to scope out all those must-have treasures from the local companies we love.

Checkout the other publications in the City Pick’s family here!

Say Hello to Beautiful, Healthy Skin!

August 11, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (0)

Get Hollywood worthy skin here in Seattle! Have you been searching for a spa specializing in skincare treatments? It can be overwhelming to find a salon perfect for you, but here at CRAVE we’re happy to take the guesswork out of it! Working with a skincare specialist is one of the best investments you can make. The benefits are endless from blemish-free, glowing, younger looking skin to protecting against environmental damages. According to the Calidora skin plan, there are three important steps to skincare: complexion analysis, in-spa treatments, and at-home skincare treatments. Customize your routine today!

Calidora Skin Clinic
Calidora Skin Clinic is your one-stop spot for professional skincare, treatments and products, bringing together the best in medical technology, qualified skin practitioners and cosmetic procedures for visible results. Although they take procedures seriously to give you the best results, they take the time to make you feel comfortable and relaxed. The environment is warm and inviting. Come in to create the Calidora Skin Plan. Starting with a one-on-one complexion analysis to give you a comprehensive explanation of your skin’s condition. Your Calidora care coordinator will then begin to prescribe in-spa and at home treatments that will deliver top results, customized for you! Here you will not find standardized plans, every skin plan is as unique as the individual client. Book your appointment at Calidora Skin Clinc to design your skin plan today!

Spa Scotta
With Spa Scotta’s intensive menu of skin therapy treatments it’s no wonder why many clients turn to them for their monthly or even weekly treatments. They also carry a wide range of skin care lines which allows Spa Scotta’s specialists to choose from products best suited for you. Some of the products they carry include: Murad, Dermalogica and Pevonia. They offer these products to ensure each client has the ability to maintain spa results at home until their next visit! Skin care treatments don’t stop at just facials, Spa Scotta offers a wide range of skin care treatments. The Back-Cial is a back facial which addresses blemishes and congested backs, improving the overall health and appearance of this hard to reach area. The Back-cial includes a microdermabrasion treatment on the upper back. From tween to teen services to deep cleaning exfoliating microdermabrasion Spa Scotta has a full range of treatments to meet every need.Owner Jessica Campbell’s professionally trained staff is dedicated to providing the best, beneficial services to each client.

Clarisonic
Continue that deep clean spa feeling using Clarisonic Sonic Skin Cleansing System. This system sweeps away impurities and clear your pores, improving the health of your skin and and giving you noticeably visible results such as clearer, softer, smoother skin. The Sonic Skin Cleansing System uses a patented sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to clean, soften and smooth your skin. In just 60 seconds a day, the micro-massage action cleans more than twice as effectively as manual cleansing. Develop your Clarisonic skin care ritual by finding your cleanser and serum to fit your needs. Say hello to beautiful, healthy looking skin daily!

Love Beautiful Hair? Get Swinked

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

Co-owner Natalie Angelillo of Swink Style Bar loves perfectly styled hair! Touching on a on a variety of topics Natalie shares with CRAVE her secrets to success and how she was able to make her dream a reality. Along side business partner Jacquie Byrne the duo was able to bring Seattle’s first beauty bar to life. Swink is a one-stop beauty shop providing both hair and make-up styling. Expertly trained hairstylists and in-house makeup-artist make complete transformations attainable for women on any budget. When you step out of the Swink Style Bar you will be left feeling completely confident and ready to take anything life has to throw at you, in style!

What inspired you and your partner to start Swink?
Jacquie Byrne-my business partner, and I wanted to start Swink so we can be a customer. I have previous business and operating experience. Throughout my career, I used to travel a lot to New york & London. I would stop in at local hair salons. As a customer I had an amazing time getting my hair completely styled and transformed in a matter of moments. When I would go back home to Seattle, I couldn’t find a salon that provided an all in one beauty salon. I tried to encourage other friends to open a salon, until one day I decided to take a leap of faith and start creating my team.

How did you go about starting the formation of the Swink team?
I called one of my closest friends Jacquie Brynes. We then contacted every person we’ve met along the way to gather a team of experts! My dream of was transpiring before my eyes!

Who was the first expert to help with the creation of Swink?
Suresh. He used to be a Seattle-based makeup artist, and now lives in New York. Jacquie had her makeup done by Suresh, and felt that it was the best makeup experience she has ever had, and looked better than ever! He amplified her best features, without overdoing the makeup. Jacquie & Suresh kept in contact. When we reached out to him to help guide us with makeup selections for Swink. Suresh has his own line of lip glosses that we carry, and provide for our customers. He then became a lifetime business advisor, beauty expert, and Swink School Trainer! Find out more about his line here!

Now that Swink has taken off, can you tell me what a typical day at Swink is like for you?
Everything! Swink’s customer base is any age range. From business women getting her weekly blowout before the work week, to a senior in high school for senior photos, to twenty- somethings getting ready for a girls night out. Saturday is major bridal 1-2 parties. We just started keeping the salon open on Sunday to meet the business demands. Nothing is typical. Stylist see a variety of women daily!

What is the most popular services?
Off the hair menu is The Swink is Super popular! It is as true to you as a thumbprint or signature, our house blow out is you, only better. Straight, curly, whatever, it’s your bona fide good hair day. The The Belle du Jour is the Summer’s best style. It is our “It Girl” style. A bit edgy, always hip. We celebrate the hair of the moment with cues from the runway to red carpet. From our makeup menu semi-permanent lash extensions is also another popular services.

What are the major brands Swink carriers to help deliver the signature Swink blowouts?
Davines, an Italian line chemical and peraben free haircare line. It is unique to Seattle. We also use Kevin Murphy Dry Shampoo-aerosol spray that sprays out fine powder substance and absorbs oil. It’s a great alternative for women in a rush that don’t have time for a complete shampoo. Dry shampoo also adds texture to fine hair.

Besides Suresh Lipgloss what other Makeup lines do you carry?
Young blood. Its a mineral makeup. Click here to find out more information about Young Blood Cosmetic line!

What do you look for when hiring new Swink stylist and makeup artist?
The stylist I hire are all licensed, and have gone through school. I look for People who want to put the finishing stamp/style transformation piece of styling. Our stylist need to have a passion for makeup and learning new styles as well. We want our Swink artist are apart of the ENTIRE transformation process. To get the technical skills down we like to put our stylist through “Swink School” training them the Swink way. Swink School and training evolves based on the individuals-a week or two or even longer. Fine tuning their stylist skills. Throughout the year we continue training with outside experts & senior stylist as well.

Are their any future expansions to meet the growing Swink demand?
Since Swink is the first and only Style Bar of its kind in Seattle our business is growing, and artist are continually being booked. Since a majority of our clients come from the Bellevue area we are planning to open a new Salon there in the near future!

Do you have any events with our CRAVE readers?
For brides, on the day of your wedding-they cater and parties can rent out the entire space. You can have 4- 5 stylist at a time. We provide a loft space upstairs where bridal parties can change.

What is the greatest part about being apart of Swink?
Being apart of the transformation process is the greatest part of being apart of Swink. It’s to see change in confidence that customers gain from just an hour at Swink, it’s an amazing process to be apart of.

What are you looking forward to at the CRAVE Summer Party?
I’m just thrilled to be apart of the party. We will be bringing our team of stylist and doing mini hair and makeup makeovers!

Wanna get Swinked? Click here to learn more. You can also check out Swink at the CRAVE Summer party on August 18^th.

Introducing Happy Hour by Marisa!

August 6, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (0)

We are pleased to introduce Happy Hour by the MOST fabulous Marisa! Not only will she be a part of the CRAVE Summer Party, but she shares her personal story behind her brand. Learn how her lifelong mentor has inspired her to start her own business. Marisa continues to be one of his soldiers, changing one life at a time with fitness & health.

What was your inspiration to branch out on your own and start “Happy Hour by Marisa”?
Life works in funny and unexpected ways.  I’d been working full-time at 24 Hour Fitness in various management positions for almost 15 years when my position was eliminated company-wide in January 2009.  I thought I’d work there forever so needless to say, I was in total shock.  I chose to see it as an opportunity. An exciting one to reinvent myself.  My passion has always been making that personal connection with people…helping them to see their amazing potential.  I knew I had to create an opportunity where I could live out my passion!  I’ve been teaching aerobics classes for 15 years and I’ve always called my classes “Happy Hour“!  I want that hour to be fun, stress-free and a time to play…..adult recess!  So when I decided to start my own fitness business, it seemed to make perfect sense to name it “Happy Hour by Marisa“.

Who is your role model/mentor?
My mentor, Erich Jenkins, taught me to never underestimate the power of one.  He used to refer to our true role at 24 Hour Fitness as “changing lives”.  Sadly, we lost Erich in a tragic accident several years ago now.  I decided that day that I would carry on his vision….be one of his soldiers…..changing lives every day through fitness.
What is the one business mistake you won’t make again?—  I honestly don’t see anything I’ve done so far as a mistake.  When I’ve tried something that hasn’t been effective, I learn from it and move on.  It’s a constant learning experience.  Every day I learn a bit more.  I’ve learned how important it is to be open-minded and humble.

What do you consider your greatest success of this past year?
I’m most proud of the fact that I said I wanted to open my own business in January 2010 and I DID IT.  I didn’t just think about it…I did it!  I consider going for it as a huge success!

What would people be surprised to know about you?
Surprised to know about me?  I’m not sure there are many surprises about me for the people who know me since I’m so open with my classes and clients about who I am and what I’m about.  For people who don’t know me, they may be surprised to know that fitness hasn’t always been part of my life.  I used to be 60 lbs heavier and didn’t know the first thing about working out.  Being fit hasn’t come easy and continues to be a challenge for me!  I am on my own fitness journey and struggle every day with the same things other people do.  I’m just an ordinary person with a lot of drive and determination!

What do you CRAVE in life?
Ooooh, so much!  What I CRAVE most is making an impact.  Making a true difference in the lives of people that I cross paths with.  I also don’t ever want to wish I had done something.  When things come up on my “life to-do list”, I want to cross them off one at a time!  Why not!?

What’s your biggest self indulgence?
I absolutely love food!  And I love just about everything that’s bad for me!  I struggle every day with making good choices.  If I could, I would eat Mexican food every day!

Take your fitness to new levels with Happy Hour by Marisa!

6 Stylish Reasons to Attend CRAVE Summer Party

August 4, 2010 by Arlyn W. | Comments (0)

The CRAVE Summer Party is exactly two weeks away, and we are adding six more reasons why you should attend! Indulge in these lavish boutiques offering everything from casual couture and rollable flats to a treasure trove of gifts.

Queen Anne Dispatch
Tara Espinoza and Sabrina Mohlman have evolved Queen Anne Dispatch into a trendy boutique filled with apparel, shoes, jewelery, and gift items. It is your one stop shop for high style shipping to send unique finds that can reach your loved ones across the nation.

Opal
Owner Shannen Wyman selects a luxe array of beautiful high end clothing and accessories. Make Opal your go to shop for casual couture and premium denim. Complete any outfit with accessories from budding designers to well-known jewelers.

Olivine Atelier
Shop samples from the ultimate online boutique at Olivine Atelier. Based in Seattle, Olivine makes online shopping an inclusive experience with carefully selected trendy, yet unique items per your style! They CRAVE Prairie Underground, Kimberly Baker, Lulu Beauty, Lauren Harkness and Aubrey Summers!

fabbys Shoes
fabbys shoes are stylish, rollable flats made to fit into a small clutch. After a long day in heels switch to fabbys flats. Its intelligent design allows women across the nation to look fashionable, while being comfortable. Buy fabbys flats and some of the proceeds also go to breast cancer research!

Crackerjack Crafts
Crackerjack brings you fun, cool, lovely creations of over 200 local, regional and national artists. From exquisite jewelry, to scrumptious bath products and fancy hats, Crackerjack is a treasure trove of gifts for everyone on your list – you included!

Babeland
For the wildly exotic shopper seek out sensual selections from Babeland. Rachel Venning and Claire Cavanah have created professionally chosen assortment of high-end toys for couples, sensation products, body items, and books. Find a new spark today at Babeland!

Buy your tickets to the CRAVE Summer Party today!

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