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CRAVE’s Favourites for a Ladies Night Out

Wednesday, July 28th, 2010

We know our CRAVE ladies are a busy group of females.  Running a business is hard work and sometimes all-consuming.  That’s why this post calls on the old adage “work hard, play harder”.  To us, there is no better way to de-stress than with a ladies night out.  Just a few hours on the town with best friends can melt away weeks of stress and recharge your batteries.  We’ve put together a list of some great spots to spend your evening out.

EMBRUJO FLAMENCO TAPAS RESTAURANT -  embrujoflamenco.com
Looking for a great meal to share and some spicy entertainment?  We love Embrujo Flamenco.  Enjoy the regional cuisines of Spain, based on centuries of traditional cooking and hundreds of regional recipes using natural ingredients such as olive oil, lots of seafood, vegetables, game, veal, ham, and sausages to name a few.  All served as tapas, these dishes are created to be shared around the table.  Not only do they have great food, but Wednesday through Sunday they also offer free Flamenco shows while dining.

THE 10 SPOT BEAUTY BAR -  the10spot.com
Sometimes after a long week (or weeks) no matter how much you want to just let loose for a night on the town with your girlfriends, you just can’t find the energy to get dolled up and dance the night away.  That is why we love the 10 Spot.  They are open late – until 10pm Thursday to Saturday and until 8pm the rest of the week.  This is the perfect way to spend a lazy evening with your girls.  They even book private parties specifically for a girl’s night out.

BERBER LOUNGE -  berberlounge.ca
The BerBer Lounge is the perfect place for a light dinner, drinks and a night of dancing with your ladies.  Enjoy delicious Moroccan cuisine while surrounded by artisanal hand-made luxuries transported back from the winding alleys of the Moroccan Medinas.  Stay after dinner for drinks and a night of dancing as a DJ takes over and transforms the Lounge into a Front Street hot-spot.

Toronto Stylists and Personal Shoppers We CRAVE

Wednesday, July 21st, 2010

One thing CRAVE entreprenesses are known for is their love of fashion and impeccable personal style.  But every now and then, even the most stylish women can use a little help finding the perfect outfit or proper fit and cut to suit their body.  It also might be you just want to revamp your personal image or maybe you have your personal style defined but just don’t have the time – GASP! – to shop. That’s why we have put together a list of some of the best Stylists, Image Consultants and Personal Shoppers in Toronto for the CRAVE lady on-the-go.

PERSONAL POWER IMAGE CONSULTING-  personalpowerimage.com
Personal Power Image Consulting offers a large array of services ranging from personal, online, socializing and corporate.  International Image Consultant Christie Ressel has delivered over 150 lectures across North America on topics ranging from women’s empowerment, etiquette, image, and credibility, and much more. Coming this fall, she will also be teaching image consulting at George Brown College in Toronto.  Whether you are looking for the colour palette that suits you best or need a boost in self confidence, Personal Power Image can help.

ZAYNA MOSAM IMAGE CONSULTING -  zmimage.com
Zayna Mosam Image Consulting helps you to optimize visual communication with your wardrobe, grooming, poise and body language and saves you time and money by helping you recognize the perfect garments for your body and what to look for when shopping.  Zayna Mosam also specializes in behavior and communication skills including increasing communication efficacy and managing your lifestyle and creating opportunities.  Zayna practices a holistic form of image consulting that emphasizes both mind and body. Clients enjoy the opportunity to combine outer transformation with personal development.

JULIA HUGHES AGENCY -  juliahughesagency.com
Julia Hughes Agency is what every CRAVE woman on-the-go has been waiting for.  Julia Hughes offers personal shopping and gift purchasing, but for those, who like us, always have time to shop, the agency also offers personal concierge services.  When life gets a little too crazy you can turn to Julia Hughes to act as your body double (don’t want to stand in line to pay that parking ticket?) or for hosting services, visitor arrangements, executive concierge services, home set-up and relocation and many other services when you just don’t have the time.

Bloggers To Watch Out For: Career Coaches

Monday, July 19th, 2010

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.

Toronto’s Networking Gurus

Wednesday, July 14th, 2010

With the web taking over, we live in a society in which it is impossible to not be connected.  The challenge though is connecting with the right people or standing out when anyone and everyone has a blog.  Knowing the right people can help.  Networking is key, and some of us are not as naturally good at it as others.  Fortunately, many of those social butterflies use their networking prowess to help connect others with the appropriate people that can advance careers, drive sales, or take your business to the next level.  We’ve put together a list of a few of Toronto’s best connectors who have dedicated their careers to bringing others together or have that certain je ne sais quoi that has helped their hosted events or blog stand out amongst the rest.

HEYDOYOU -  yvonnekai.blogspot.com
HeyDoYou described as for the “cute, clever, and connected” is a lifestyle blog that started in 2007 in Toronto, Canada. Its love affair with special events, beauty products, street fashion, international trends and shiny gadgets yield over 40,000 readers per month. The Los Angeles extension began Summer of 2009 and continues to be a portal for social media and word of mouth marketing.  Follow these ladies to find out about the events you need to be at, the products you need to be wearing, and the people you need to know.

THE SOCIETY -  thesocietytoronto.com
The Society states their mission as: To make culture a relevant and affordable luxury.  A cool and modern version of a private members-only club, The Society delivers a calendar of unique Socials and Cultural Encounters that challenge, excite and renew their members affinity for the arts, culture and entertainment.  Their events always make headlines and are THE place to meet the young and prominent from a wide range of industries.

SPROUTER -  sprouter.com
Sprouter facilitates networking and collaboration between entrepreneurs globally. Providing a platform for users to connect with other innovators, entrepreneurs can expand their networks to include fellow entrepreneurs and startups with similar interests and goals. By answering the question “What are you working on?” in 140 characters or less entrepreneurs can discover and join events in their local areas, start discussions and follow topics of relevance to their business.  Signing up for an account is easy and free and can open the door to endless possibilities and new business connections.

Daddy’s Day is Almost Here!

Monday, June 14th, 2010

Father’s Day is around the corner and every year its the same. We ponder WHAT to get our dear dads for a gift. We all know that whatever we hand them they’ll be thankful for; but we always want to push the envelope! When we are pressed for time and don’t have the effort left to make something extremely sentimental, here is some advice from your friends at CRAVE on what to do that will make him smile.

Try and remember what your dad is passionate about. Is he an outdoors-man? Cook? Tech-savvy? Music lover? With some passion he has in mind its always easier to direct your gift towards a certain theme and come out successful. It will help you avoid spending hours shopping with no clue of what to get as well as guaranteeing that he will appreciate the gift and the thought you put into it.
If still stuck on where to begin with finding a gift, maybe go in a different direction then a simple gift from the store. Does you’re dad love a certain comedian or band? Grab tickets to a concert.

Dad’s love knowing you want to spend time with them, so if time allows, do an activity that involves doing something together. Time spent is more precious than any other gift money could buy!

Remember first and foremost that its your dad’s day! All that matters truly matters is that you make sure to tell him he’s special and you love him.

Tricks of the Trade

Monday, May 31st, 2010

When great minds come together, amazing things can happen. When great CRAVE minds come together, amazing things DO happen! Part of our mission – along with being the go-to source for all things fab in your city – is to connect women business-owners to the resources, information, and other like-minded women that will enable their success and growth as professionals. So to offer up some advice and inspiration to all of our hard-working entreprenesses, we’ve got a handful of intelligent lady-experts opening up their book of knowledge for us. Consider it the metaphorical – and less painful form of walking a mile in their fiercely fabulous high-heeled shoes. Read on for each experts’ single most important tip for fellow entreprenesses and their favorite part about working with women in business.

Dawn McCooey- McCooey Consulting Group Inc.Woman’s Enterprise Centre
Must-do: Understand the act and the art of juggling. If you know which balls are rubber and which are glass – you can handle anything.
Love-to-do: As a business advisor with Women’s Enterprise Centre, and as a consultant, I love the energy and the synergy of women business owners. I love how they are willing to collaborate and build community.

Carlie Smith- Portobello West
Must-do: Don’t write-off any idea until you’ve looked at it from various perspectives and always run the numbers.
Love-to-do: Female business owners are very supportive of one another and are great at working together to create amazing projects and businesses!

Pauline O’Malley- TheRevenueBuilder
Must-do: Without sales, you don’t have a business. As a woman, you have the natural abilities to persuade others to believe in you. Women are the best sales people in the world; they just don’t know it yet!

Heather White- 2020 Communications
Must-do: Take action!
Love-to-do: Sitting on the shoulders of my clients and watching them make their dreams come true. Female business owners have high energy and it’s a lot of fun to be around them.

Felicia Lee- Ghost CEO Advisor
Must-do: You are not an island – utilize mentors, resources and communities around you to help you build your business.
Love-to-do: Many women entrepreneurs are afraid of sales.  It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the transformation from fear to embracing to owning the sales process!

Katie Bennett- Double Black Diamond Coaching
Must-do: What separates my clients that get good results from my clients who get great results is commitment.  100% or 0%. There is no wiggle room on true commitment.
Love-to-do: The best part of my job is getting to help people achieve the lives and businesses they have always dreamed of.

Shauna Causey- Voluntweetup
Must-do: Test your limits on how generous you can be.
Love-to-do: The best part of my job is that I get to talk about dynamic ideas, inspiring people and worthwhile causes.

Maria Ross- Red Slice
Must-do: Make sure you know who your audience is! Get as close to defining your “ideal” customer vs. just your “average” customer.
Love-to-do: Seeing the light go off when they discover what their brand is really all about or who really is their ideal customer.

Andrea Baxter- Bratface Marketing
Must-do: There is nothing more beneficial to business women in a small city than to get out there, make yourself aware, and make a name for yourself.
Love-to-do: I would be lying if I didn’t say the freedom it allows me to have my own business.

CRAVE Book Featured on the Small Screen

Friday, May 7th, 2010

Click on picture to view video

Just in time for Mother’s Day, our CRAVE guides were featured on Twin Cities Live as the perfect gift for stylish moms everywhere! Watch the clip here and see our lovely books take center-stage!

Interview with Katherine B. Topolniski of KBT Photography

Friday, May 7th, 2010

Katherine B. Topolniski of KBT Photography (kbtphotography.ca) combines her passion for photojournalism and artistic nature to create unique documentary-style photography. From weddings to maternity, family portraits to musicians and business professionals, Katherine captures it all! She was also a featured photographer who shot some of the amazing photos in our newly launched Toronto CRAVE book!

What are your most popular products or services?
Wedding Photojournalism packages for 10 hours or more, uniquely personal family portrait sessions, and my designer coffee table books.

People may be surprised to know…
I started practicing photography at 9 years old. I developed black and white film and made prints in the darkroom.

What or who inspired you to start your business?
I’ve always been driven to be a photographer and constantly work towards a future of working as a photographer full-time.

Who is your role model or mentor?
My father, who taught me the foundations of photography; Henri-Cartier Bresson and Chien-Chi Chang inspire me creatively and in photographic approach.

What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat?
Attempting to do my own accounting! Also not buying all available website domains with my business name!

How do you spend your free time?
I like being outside, walking, hiking, biking, and exploring the city streets or nature with my camera. Also being social and silly!

What is your indulgence?
I indulge in wine and inspiring conversation at any opportunity. I also love adventure, nature, traveling and camera gear.

What do you CRAVE? In business? In life?
I crave my camera! When I don’t have it with me I see photographs EVERYWHERE!

It’s Fiesta Time!

Wednesday, May 5th, 2010


Cinco de Mayo is a fun day dedicated to spicy foods, barbequing in the fresh spring weather, and sipping a cocktail while relaxing to upbeat Latin music. Partake in or create Cinco de Mayo activities you CRAVE this year. Gather your girlfriends and samba your way into spring!
If you are in the mood to stay in and avoid Cinco de Mayo craziness, a perfect way to loosen up and still enjoy this festive holiday is to stay in and host your own fiesta! Do your girls CRAVE spicy and authentic Mexican food? Invite everyone over to cook their favorite dish and swap recipes. Meanwhile, sip on fresh home-made margaritas while watching your favorite Selma Hayek films. For a fun activity kids of any age can enjoy, pick up a piñata and see who can collect the most candy.

Getting dolled up and putting on your most festive dress and heels may be the way you want to honor this colorful holiday. Put on that new red lipstick you’ve been dying to use, gather all the girls and jump into a salsa class. Learning this spicy dance together will not only be fun, but you might discover a new favorite way to work out! After the lesson, go to that Mexican restaurant that you can’t get enough of and dance the night away to the live mariachi band.

Whether it be going out to hot spots or mellowing out at home, celebrate however makes you happiest. As you prepare for the night’s festivities, try this enticing, spicy cocktail to liven up your night. Not for the timid taste buds!
SMITTEN

Makes 1 cocktail
1/3 cup fresh ripe watermelon, cut in 1-inch cubes

2 oz Sauza Hornitos Plata Tequila

3/4 oz Monin Organic Agave Syrup

3/4 oz fresh lime juice

2 dashes Tapatio hot sauce
Garnish: half-rim, single “scallop” of kosher salt

Muddle/press watermelon in pint glass with a muddler, being sure to press the melon well to release juices. Measure in tequila, agave syrup and lime juice. Shake in hot sauce—do not over-do it! Fill glass with ice. Cap and shake vigoroulsy. Strain into a martini glass with a partial salt rim.

Find more creative concoctions from Chef Kathy Casey here.

Bond with these Activites on Mother’s Day

Monday, May 3rd, 2010

It’s that time of year – it’s all about mom. You know as well as we do – with a hectic lifestyle, sometimes traditional alternatives have to do the trick (isn’t it the thought that counts?). But with all that mom has done for you, we’re guessing you probably CRAVE some creative mother/daughter bonding activities this Mother’s Day. So take a break from the craziness of the day to bond with the number one woman in your life. Whether you’re a “like- mother-like-daughter duo” or have completely different tastes, you’re sure to find a fabulous way to celebrate your mom in style with our irresistible options! Get ready to make some memories!

Rediscover Family Recipes
What better way to celebrate the women in your family than with a day dedicated to the culinary queens that have graced your family over the years? We all have recipes stashed away in a drawer in the kitchen that we always talk about with family members during holiday time. How many times have you reminisced about Grandma Marie’s outrageous chicken Marsala or Aunt Susan’s legendary lemon meringue? It’s time to pull out those recipes and cook them up with mom! Be sure to recopy those recipes that are written on paper that is little worse for wear, organize them and swap memories as you savor your hard work. So, if CRAVE something spicy or sweet and want to share special memories of the wonderful women that have paved your way, get cooking with mom. Who knows, you might even make some mother-daughter recipes of your own!

Other ideas for the the crafty mother-daughter duo:

- Organize family photos in scrapbooks or photo albums.
- Transfer old family tapes to DVD.
- Take an art class together.

Mother-Daughter Massage
What better way to say goodbye to stress and pamper the number one woman in your life than with a mother-daughter massage and spa treatment? Sometimes, the unspoken shared moments in life mean the most. With a little time to meditate, make muscles melt and mend your bodies, you and mom will be bonding in no time. Take some time together to choose your lineup of indulgences for the day. Whether you and mom CRAVE some hot stone therapy, aromatherapy or holistic skin care, your Mother’s Day Spa date is sure to be one to remember!

Other options for mothers and daughters looking to chill:

- Take a yoga class together.
- Safely score some rays of sunshine at the beach.
- Pack a picnic lunch and your suits. Find the perfect place to swim, enjoy the water and indulge in some homemade picnic classics!

Generational Clothing Swap:
Admit it – you have always wanted to raid mom’s closet (maybe you already have!) for some of those classy vintage outfits she has saved over the years. She’s probably had her eye on some of yours! Now is your chance to share style secrets that span a few more decades. Spend the days discussing style and sharing trends that have come in and out of both your lives. You might find some similarities you would never suspect – styles always seem to come back! After you swap chic secrets, you might even want to have a generational fashion show. Whatever decade you and mom each CRAVE when it comes to style, the creative possibilities are endless when you put your heads together in the name of fashion!

Alternatives for moms and daughters with fashion in their blood:

- Get out there for some retail therapy, but here’s the catch – pick outfits for each other. You could be pleasantly surprised, or you might be laughing the entire time you’re in the dressing room!
- Score mother-daughter style makeover consultations.
- Go on a fashionable date – check CRAVE and other local listings for fashion shows and other styling events in your city.

No matter what you CRAVE and how you choose to celebrate mom, enjoy your time together. Happy Mother’s Day from all of us at CRAVE.