Sitting Made Simple!

Raise your hand if you appreciate a good child-free date night.  🙋‍♀️ Being a transplant, I don’t have family over here that I can rely on to watch our kiddos.  On top of that, it took me a LONG time to be able to allow someone to watch them.  Call me crazy, but it can be a scary world out there.  Both my kids were/are speech delayed and I just didn’t feel comfortable leaving them until one of them could explain situations to me.

When I finally felt okay about it, I realized I didn’t have anyone I could comfortably call to rely on.  I always found it a bit odd that some people seemed comfortable just posting on social media, “hey, who could watch my kids this Friday.”  I couldn’t make a decision that big without knowing the history of someone.

I was over the moon when I discovered Sitting Made Simple, a local family-owned babysitting service.

Comprised of two sisters:  Emily Cooley & Kaley Eads, each takes a unique and beneficial mix to their business.

Emily is a mother of 2 with a 3rd on the way this Spring!  I think it’s safe to say she knows how busy it can be and how important a much needed mom break is.  As a mother, she also knows exactly what kind of care she wants for her own kids and what should be provided by a sitter.

Kaley brings a whole other perspective to the team as she was once an SMS Sitter herself!  With that experience, she knows the business inside and out and has figured out what works and doesn’t work along the way!

So let’s talk about what makes SMS stand out.

They do all the hard work for you! When you become a member of SMS, you aren’t getting a random selection of people showing up at your door.  Each individual is FULLY vetted before being hired.

Each SMS® Sitter is CPR certified, screened, must have a valid driver’s license, auto insurance and a clean driving record and they are ALWAYS interviewed in person.  If they are a no-show for the interview, they are immediately added to the do not hire list.  Being reliable is everything in this industry.

While for me the need for a sitter would most likely be for date nights, they offer so much more than that.   From drop off/pick up, to before and after school care, business event child care and everything in between!  & while notice is always appreciated, they do take last minute and rush requests.

So how does it work? (Info from website)

• Sign Up
  
  Complete your SMS® registration form and submit payment for the non-refundable $50 membership fee. This fee is charged annually and can be canceled at any time directly from your SMS® online account.

• Start Booking
  
  To start enjoying the SMS® Life, log in and submit your request right away! Use our custom online scheduling feature from your desktop or mobile device to submit requests and the SMS® Team will provide updates along the way!

• Say Hello
  
  As a new SMS® Member, you will receive a welcome call from our team to say “Hello!” and to answer any additional questions you might have.

• First Sit
  
  Your SMS® Sitter will show up on time and jump right in! They will look for any last minute instructions, but will be fully prepared with the details you provided upon booking.

• How’d It Go?
  
  Your sitter will complete a log and you will have the opportunity to provide feedback to the SMS® Office for each sit as well!

So yes, it’s a membership and there are scheduling fees.  So some of you might think, well… why would I pay for a membership and scheduling fees?  Convenience and peace of mind!  I rather pay a couple extra bucks and know that I will 100% be getting a sitter that I can trust and rely on- wouldn’t you agree?

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Chandelier, everything I envisioned.

Chandelier

When I first dreamt of The Ultimate Princess Party, I envisioned every little detail of how it would look and what would take place.  I could literally close my eyes and catch little glimpses of something that wasn’t even tangible yet.  The challenge then came when trying to recreate that fantasy I had thought up in my head.

The process of first googling options in the area, then calling for quotes, going on tours… all led to disappointment.  I was driven away from not only astronomical prices, but overall poor quality.

I vividly remember the day I went to go check out Chandelier.  Moments earlier, I had just left another failed venue tour.  I called my husband and stressed my concern.  While he tried to assure me it was going to be okay, I saw my dream slipping away.  That was until I remembered hearing about a new venue that opened in the area.

I didn’t know much about it, but what I did know was that it opened in a location I have frequented before.  Although, while I was there last it was an Asian bistro.

I called to gather some info and was greeted with a friendly voice.  Natasha, one half of the ownership, invited me to come by to check it out in person.  On the way there, I thought to myself, don’t get your hopes up… but man, I couldn’t have been more wrong.

I’m pretty positive my jaw literally hit the ground after I walked through the entrance.  I couldn’t even remotely remember what it looked like before that moment.  My first impression was spacious, classy and beautiful.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Chef John and Natasha Ford.  They told me all about the space and options available.  Without hesitation, I said let’s book this!

Before I tell you more about the space, let me tell you about the people who made this happen… Chef John and Natasha Ford.

The Fords

Chef John Ford completed his culinary training in 2008 at the Art Institutes of Raleigh-Durham. John has achieved culinary excellence in everything from Italian and French to Asian and American styles of cooking. What I admire most about chef John is his journey.  He wasn’t handed an amazing opportunity, he earned it.  He literally worked his way up from the bottom, starting off as a dish washer.  Another thing to admire is his passion for using the freshest, locally-sourced products in his delicious creations.

Completing the second half of this powerful duo is Chef Johns wife, Natasha Ford, Creative Director.  While Chef John is a master in the kitchen, Natasha is a master of business and marketing, earning her degree at Virginia Commonwealth University in Media & Public Relations.  With this talent, she is able to showcase their combine culinary, catering and event skills to the community.

 

Why Choose Chandelier?

Chandelier stands above competition.  From parking to interior space, every detail was executed with care and intelligence.  It’s spacious, the floorplan is flowing & the décor is classy and upscale.  It provides an environment suitable for an array of events; from weddings to baby showers, birthday parties and more.  The best part, while decorating enhances the beauty, its not even necessary when the standard is still breathtaking.

On top of what I already mentioned, their prices are extremely competitive.  They offer packages that include a full experience, rather than trying to nickle and dime you every step of the way.

Fluent N’ Food

So I’ve talked about Chandelier and Chef John’s culinary talents, but what I haven’t officially stated is that besides being the faces behind the venue, they also own Fluent N’ Food, a catering company.   While I haven’t had the pleasure of tasting their food YET, I’ve heard nothing but raving reviews.

So no, you do not need to have your event at Chandelier to be able to book Fluent N’ Food.  That being said, if you do book at Chandelier, you have the convenience of using an in house caterer!

Final thoughts

I just couldn’t be happier to have found Chandelier.  Being from New York, their was an abundant amount of event venues.  There are almost too many options when trying to decide where to host a special party.  Here in NC, you don’t find that same problem.  I actually struggled with finding enough options.  This space offers everything you could possibly need without the hassle and stress.

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Oh my, lashes!

 

If the saying “Once you get lash extensions, you  never go back,” isn’t a thing by now, it needs to be.

In my book, big lashes are a game changer.  Unfortunately, I was cursed with short, stubby and blondish strands of hair.  My son on the other hand, lashes for days.  Go figure.  I’ve spent endless amounts of time trying to find a mascara to help enhance my look, but I’ve yet to find one that really blows me away.

With the curiosity and lash envy just eating away at me, I finally booked an appointment at The Fabulash Bar.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Apex, tucked inside Syeni Salon & Spa, The Fabulash Bar’s atmosphere is serene, peaceful & welcoming.  The treatment room is misted with therapeutic aromatherapy, calming music playing in the background and a heated massage table layered with a soft blanket for extra comfort.

Prior to my appointment, I was given guidelines and a simple list of what to expect at the appointment.  With that, I arrived with a clean, make-up free face as instructed.  I filled out the standard new patient consent forms & then it was time to get started.

Erin Tracey, the owner of The Fabulash Bar observed my natural lashes & eye shape to determine what options/length would work best for me.  With extensions, you have a couple different options to choose from:

1. CLASSIC:  Applied on a 1:1 ratio, which means one extension on one natural lash.  Achieves a very natural look.
2. VOLUME: Applying a “fan” of lash extensions to one lash. So, instead of the 1:1 ratio of classic lashes, you may have a 1:3 or 1:5.  Thus creating luxurious volume.
3. HYBRID:  A mixture of both classic and volume lashes.

We decided that this time we would go with hybrid lashes.  Erin mentioned that if I for whatever reason didn’t like the final look, we would be able to easily change it during our next appointment.

With a decision made, we officially started the extension process.

Gel pads were used to secure my bottom lashes down so they didn’t interfere with my top set.  The pads served more than one purpose, as they also hydrate, brighten & tighten your skin in the process- extra perk!  As they were placed, it took a couple of minutes for my eyes to adjust to the process.  After that, I actually forgot they were even on.

My lashes were then prepped by being cleaned and primed.  After this point, Erin carefully separated the lashes one by one and applied an extension to each individual hair.  FUN FACT: I had no idea that ever single lash got its own extension.  Prior to meeting, I wasn’t sure how the process really worked, but I always assumed the lashes were only used on a handful of them.

Throughout the experience, your eyes are closed, which I was more than okay with because it was really quite relaxing.  You practically feel next to nothing as they are being applied.  Erin had even mentioned that she’s had clients that have slept throughout their appointment.  Overall, from start to finish it took around 2 1/2 hours.  This included our pre-meeting consultation, breaks for pictures/videos and fun chit-chat.

When it was all said and done, and even before seeing a mirror, I was already pleasantly surprised.  I was under the impression that extensions may have been a slightly uncomfortable thing to get used to.  When I think long lashes, I think of the last time I wore glued-on strips to a wedding.  These couldn’t be anymore opposite than that.  I literally felt NOTHING.  It was hard to believe I even had anything on.

Then the mirror came out…

Wow.  I had gorgeous, lush lashes!  I have to admit, I was taken back by the sight.  I was not expecting to see such results.  I noticed that Erin was in awe, just as much as I was.  It was evident that she loves seeing the final reveal just as much as her clients.  She had explained at first it might seem like… wow, that’s a bold look.  A similar feeling after just seeing your hair cut or colored for the first time but assured me by day 3 that they would be perfect.  & boy, she couldn’t be more accurate.  At first, I was like, “could I actually pull these off?”  But then, by the third day, I was like…” I can never not have these now!”

As silly as it may sound to some, these lash extensions have filled me with a complete new sense of confidence.  I can proudly step outside my house makeup-free and have even cut down my prep time- bye bye mascara!

While I got these extensions for my own self-confidence, I couldn’t be happier with my husbands reaction.  Somehow this man of mine finds me attractive at my lowest & he always supports any choice I make when it comes to my physical appearance…but wow, he is loving these. He is CONSTANTLY making remarks about them &  wants me to keep them on for good… well, if you insist!

Upkeep

Now that you know about the process, let me tell you about the upkeep.  The number of lashes on each lid ranges from approximately 150-200 individual hairs- and that’s just on the top!  With that, 1 to 5 lashes fall out everyday and are replaced with new lashes.  & with that sad shedding brings along the need for fill-ins.

It is suggested that you schedule an appointment every 2-3 weeks.  The cost associated with your session depends on how many weeks out you choose to go.  The further out, the more work needed, therefore the more expensive.

Pricing

The current pricing is as follows:

Full Set Lashes- $185

Two Week Fill- $70

Three Week Fill- $85

Four Week Fill- $100

Last Removal- $30

BUT WAIT, Erin is currently offering an AMAZING DEAL!  Get your first set of extensions (classic, hybrid or volume) for only $120- just mention CrazyCaryMom!

So if you’re like me, you might be concerned about the price… and rightfully so, I get it.  Nothing in the beauty industry is cheap and quite frankly, you don’t want it to be! I’ve learned this the hard way too many times.

I am FINALLY learning how to invest in myself.  Time and time again, I have no problem pulling out the money when it involves my kids, but pull on the purse strings when its for myself.

Over the years, I’ve been teaching myself when and how to spend.  Through trial and error, I’ve discovered investments that make the biggest impact for me.  For example, Botox is something I have no problem spending the money for.  Don’t get me wrong, I don’t go crazy and always go in with a budget, BUT after my appointments with Jennie at Azura Skin Care Center, I always feel incredible.  Now, I have another thing to add to the guilt-free list, lash extensions with Erin Tracey at The Fabulash Bar!  Not to mention, compared to local competition, her rates are incredibly fair.  When I asked her about this, she said it’s because she wants everybody to be able to afford this luxury & experience a new sense of confidence —LOVE!

Owner, Erin Tracey.

Now that you know about the process & experience, let me tell you a little bit about the owner Erin Tracey.  While a professional esthetician since 2007, Erin always knew she wanted to be involved in the world of beauty.  At a very young age, she discovered the powerful feeling of making someone feel beautiful & confident in their skin.  From licensed Skin Specialist to certified Cirepil Wax Specialist to Lash Master, Erin wears many hats and excels in every field.

Besides my awesome results, I equally enjoyed chatting and becoming friends with Erin throughout my appointment.  I seriously feel like I have been blessed with some of the woman I’ve met through my blog.

While I admire all ladies who own their own small business, there are a few that stand out… and Erin Tracey is one of them.  Besdies her skill and contagiously happy personality, she is one of the rare few who genuinely cares to see others succeed…even those who share the same industry!

After my appointment I felt like I walked away with more than just fabulous lashes, but a new friend as well.  Good thing I’ll be back in a couple week for my fill-in!

If lash extensions are something you have been thinking about trying out, I can confidently say book an appointment with The Fabulash Bar and you will walk away happy and in love with your results!

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Self-care at Sorella Spa.

 

I decided to start off the new year with some much needed self-care.  It was long overdue, so I finally booked an appointment with Desiree at Sorella Spa for a 60 minute Signature Facial.

A licensed cosmetologist for over 25 years, Desiree has a passion of teaching her clients about skincare and helping them to look and feel their very best.  While chatting with her, it was very apparent she knew what she was talking about.  Her tone and body movement made me feel that she truly cared that I would not only walk away feeling my best but educated on how to care for my skin at home with ease.

From the start, it was a  simple and convenient process.  Desiree’s website is very easy to navigate.  It didn’t leave me with a million questions and I believe it would be swift for people of all ages to work with.  Upon arrival, I noticed that Sorella Sopa is a one-woman show.  Which in my opinion, can be a nice change of pace because you are literally the only focus at the moment.  I was greeted with a warm welcome and then proceeded to fill out the standard paperwork.

We went through my skincare history and she asked me questions about how I’m currently caring for my skin.  We then discussed what what my normal conditions were.  I was honest… I’m pretty inconsistent with my skincare routine.  I explained that I go to bed many nights with my makeup still on.  Instead of shaming me into guilt, she said, “you’re human.. I do it too.”  It was so refreshing to hear this.  I’ve had this exact conversation  with other esthetician’s where they made me feel idiotic for doing so.  Knowing that I was dealing with a down-to-earth person immediately put me at ease.

In general, I have ‘normal’ skin.  It tends to get drier in the winter and I get hormonal acne, but that’s about it.  My biggest complaint are the pesky wrinkles and fine lines.  WHYYYYYYYY do I have so many?! 😦

Once undressed and comfortably lying on the table, Desiree came back into the room and we discussed how we could customize the facial.

We decided to pull out all the bells and whistles because I wanted to experience it all to share with you.

The purpose of the Signature Facial is meant to enhance your skin’s overall health and hydration. This treatment includes cleansing, exfoliating, and a masque.

We enhanced my experience with the following:

Enzyme Treatments

Enzymes help to loosen and remove dead  skin cells, promote younger cells, diminish scars, stretch marks, age  spots, fine lines and discoloration. Enzymes can help penetrate the skin to cleanse pores and improve skin tone and texture.  While this is an strong treatment, I found it to be gentle.  I experienced no discomfort, rather I relaxed and enjoyed the sweet scent.

Microdermabrasion

“This unique procedure is a mechanical form of exfoliation that removes dead and flaking skin and stimulates cell turnover and the production of collagen and elastin. It is the ultimate advancement in non-invasive, non-surgical skin conditioning. Microderm can be done using crystals or diamond tip.” – Sorella Spa

For whatever reason, I thought this might be an uncomfortable process.  I’m pleased to say, It was not at all as I expected.  It felt like a combination of light suction and being licked by a cat.  Yes, that’s exactly what I meant to say.  Cats have rough and bumpy tongues, this all makes sense.

So what are the benefits of Microdermabrasion?

• Leaves skin smooth, soft and renewed
• Improves elasticity 
• Minimizes fine lines and wrinkles
• Lightens hyper-pigmentation
• Improves acne and acne scars
• Minimizes pores
• Improves skin tone 

Essentially, everything I want for my skin.

The next add on that we did was ….

Oxygen Infusion

Doesn’t this sound so fancy?  I just had to have it.  This is when Pure Oxygen is used in combination with oxygen gels, to strengthen the skin’s elasticity.  Overall, it rejuvenates dull skin, aging skin, fine lines, wrinkles and helps eliminate acne causing bacteria.

The gel that was applied felt like a little bubbling sensation.  Not painful at all, if anything a little ticklish.  When the oxygen tool was used it felt like a cooling sensation working its way around my face.

Last but not least…

Celluma LED Light

Light Emitting Diode (LED) phototherapy.  The energy is used to improve cellular performance. Phototherapy is better known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties.  Research has shown that phototherapy can: increase circulation, accelerate tissue repair, decrease wrinkles, decrease inflammation, improve skin tone and wrinkles, texture and clarity, ease muscle and joint pain, stiffness, spasm and arthritis and kill acne bacteria, and much more.

This part consisted of nothing but relaxation.  Protective goggles and tissue were placed over my eyes and a large structure where the light shines from was placed over my face.  Desiree instructed me just to lay down, relax and soak in all the benefits.  I’m pretty positive I passed out while enjoying this treatment. ZzzzZzzZzzz

After it was all said and done I felt like a new woman!  I’m not just saying this.  Honestly, I NEVER take pictures without makeup.  I’ve always been self-conscious about my barefaced look.  I know that’s not a good thing… but I’m human.  After looking into the mirror, I was thrilled with the results.  I was glowing like never before.  I wanted to keep this look forever but knew it was going to take work.

It was such a wonderful and much needed start to this new year.  A refresher course on how to care for my skin by someone who truly masters in the art of making you feel beautiful.

Besides the amazing results, relaxing atmosphere and overall experience… it was such a pleasure meeting and chatting with a Desiree.  A former New Yorker like myself, we hit it off immediately.  Might I add she is absolutely gorgeous!  Whatever she is doing with her skin… I want in!

Show this small-business owner some love and follow her on social media!  You’ll be happy you did!

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Leading Ladies: Courtney Bowman of Raleigh Cheesy.

 

Raleigh Cheesy is a custom charcuterie and cheese board business. I specialize in creating beautiful dishes for people to serve at parties, gatherings, open houses, and any event where people will enjoy eating!- Courtney Bowman

 

Q & A

 

Q: When did you start your business?

A: I started my business on October 1, 2019. So we’ve been “open” a little over 3 weeks.

 

Q: What made you take the leap to start it up?

A: I made some charcuterie boards over the summer and absolutely loved it. There seemed to be a great amount of response to them and I was following a few other charcuterie board “queens” around the US who had started their businesses and seen them take off. I decided to just go for it and create a logo and an Instagram handle and see if anyone in the Triangle would be interested in ordering charcuterie boards. The rest is history!

 

Q: What inspires you?

A: The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Ha! It sounds absolutely insane but my husband and I binge watched it in September and I have never felt so inspired to pursue things I love. Amy Sherman Palladino’s writing is some of the best writing I’ve ever seen in a TV series and so I was inspired again by her being such a stand-out female producer and writer. Watching Midge go for it, and fail, and try to balance her dreams with her responsibilities… I just felt inspired to go for it. To pursue the things I loved and be the fullest, most alive version of myself even when I felt like there could be a million reasons not to. I had been making excuses for so long… I had a toddler… I was still working full-time as a teacher… I just needed to jump.

 

Q: Not really a question, but tell me about yourself! 

A: I love cooking! That might be obvious – that I love food (specifically GOOD food) – but I absolutely love trying new food and new restaurants. I love hosting people. I love writing. And I love love LOVE my family.

 

Q: What local businesses do you love supporting?

A: I almost consistently refuse to go to chain restaurants. I love supporting new and local restaurants and would much prefer them over chains. I’m still exploring local places to source my ingredients for boards.  Bull City Olive Oil and Paradox Farms Creamery are two of my favorites right now.

 

Q: Where do you see your business in 5 years?

A: I would love for this to be my full-time job in 5 years. I’d love to have a brick and mortar store where people could order boards the day-of or we would have pre-made boards for the day that people could pick up. I’d love to be able to hire people as well. 🙂

 

Q: What advice do you have for ladies who are wanting to start their own business?

A: Just go for it. Take the jump. See if people are interested in the product you have to offer. Take advice and feedback from people who will be extremely honest with you.

 

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Leading Ladies: Holly Armstrong with GoPlaySave.

“GoPlaySave is a local coupon book and mobile app that is filled with great buy one get one free, 50% off, and other dollar off coupons to amazing restaurants, fun places, retail and services around the Triangle.  It allows people to make memories while saving money at the same time.  Our book and mobile books are sold primarily through schools and other non-profit organizations as a fundraiser.  We have an easy fundraising system in place that helps make GoPlaySave a successful and easy way to raise money.” -Holly Armstrong

 

Q & A

 

Q:  When did you open your business?

A:  We started our business December 2004 the year our oldest child was born!  He is now 15 yrs. old and we have a 13yr. old daughter and 4 year old daughter.

 

Q:  What made you take the leap to start it up?

A:  I had a great job in the corporate world but it was high stress and required a lot of travel.  After having our son my priorities changed immediately and this opportunity came along to start my own business.  It was definitely a leap of faith!  I convinced my husband to quit his job and we started GoPlaySave.  We are very thankful to still be going strong 15 years later.

 

Q:  What inspires you?

A:  I love seeing other local businesses succeed!  I am truly inspired when other people take a risk and become successful!

 

Q:What has been your biggest challenge? 

A:  Juggling being a business owner, a mom and wife!  There doesn’t seem to ever be enough hours in the day!  I struggle with time management.  I’m quick to drop what I am doing to please the customer and sometimes it is at the expense of my family.

 

Q:  What local businesses do you love supporting?

A:  Locally owned restaurants, fun places for families, retail boutiques and services for women are my favorites!

 

Q:  What advice do you have for ladies who are wanting to start their own business?

A:  Pray for wisdom, make a pros and cons list, have a good plan of action and take the next step!  Don’t be afraid to ask other women who have successful businesses for advice and direction!  I have noticed that this community is filled with many passionate business owners that like to help and support other women!

 

Q:  Where do you see your business in 5 years?

A:  Hopefully still in business and evolving to the next step to keep GoPlaySave current in the marketplace both as a vehicle to help promote businesses and help local schools and non-profits raise money to fund their programs, activities, competitions, uniforms, technology, equipment and much more!

 

Q:  Not really a question, but tell me about yourself!

A:  I have a strong faith and know 100% that GoPlaySave wouldn’t be successful without God’s favor and blessings!  I love spending time with my husband and kids.  I love to snow ski, exercise, watch movies, go to concerts, try new restaurants, and play games with my kiddos.

 

***CrazyCaryMom Special Offer***

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Leading Ladies: Amy Richards with Amy Richards Illustration.

“I am a freelance illustrator/watercolorist with a line of stationery featuring watercolor and digital art. I host watercolor classes in person and online and have written a watercolor florals how-to guide. I specialize in custom home and pet portraits and also work with businesses on artwork for products. In January, I launched a sister brand called The Sober Introvert, a series of greeting cards and art prints that celebrate sobriety and recovery.”- Amy Richards

Q & A

 

Q:  When did you open your business?

A:  I officially opened my Etsy shop in 2008 but dove into illustrating professionally with watercolor in 2014. My first Items for sale in my shop were mini coloring books about food with cute faces.

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Q:  What made you take the leap to start it up?

A:  Aside from a general love of creating, a desire to dictate my own schedule and time. We spend the majority of our lives working and I wanted to spend that time doing something I loved.

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Q:  What inspires you?

A:  Anything and everything about nature. I am animal and floral-obsessed. I combined these two loves in my popular, ongoing Flower Crown Friends series.

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Q:  What’s been your biggest challenge?

A:  Learning how to run a business properly and I am still learning more and more everyday. We can’t do everything on our own, and once I had the funds to hire people like business coaches and web designers things definitely became more manageable.

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Q:  What local businesses do you love supporting?

A:  I love jewelry and my go to gal is Stacy of Juniper Bay Metals, check out her work- it speaks for itself she is also the loveliest human and fellow dog-mama. I just discovered Pine State Coffee in my local neighborhood and like to meet friends to draw there occasionally.

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Q:   What advice do you have for ladies who are wanting to start their own business?

A:  Just start. I think a lot of people get bogged down with planning and can use it as a barrier for just putting brush-to-paper so to speak. It is important to do research but its also important to make mistakes and learn to pivot.

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Q:  Where do you see your business in 5 years?

A:  I dove back into teaching a few years ago and have fallen in love with it again. This is largely based on the response I have received from my incredible student base- they are so talented and seem to love learning. I am currently in the process of launching my first online course that will be available via my website. I see my focus continuing to head in the way of content/support for students.  I also plan to expand my sobriety products, as partial profits are donated to recovery organizations. I am currently partnering with Healing Transitions here in Raleigh on several projects as a result of these new card/art designs which has been rewarding and fun.

Both of these parts of my job have become very fulfilling on a deeper level- who doesn’t want more of that?

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Q:   Not really a question, but tell me about yourself!  Hobbies? Interests?  What are you doing when your not working? 

A:  Even when I am not working my brain is always working creatively, its hard to shut it off- mainly because I love what I do so much. I am a Crossfit athlete and just joined a Sober run club. I love being with my 3 dogs and am a home body at heart. I love spending time with my parents and enjoying a good meal with friends. Nature is my church and being outside recharges my batteries. Oh and I listen to podcast incessantly.

***CrazyCaryMom Special Offer***

 $10 off of Amy’s e-book, Watercolor Florals: A Stroke-by-stroke guidebook.  Use code ‘FLORAL50’- expires 7/21 at midnight.  Get your book here!

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5 Do’s and Don’ts When Planning Your Disney Vacation!

5 Do’s and don’ts when planning your Disney vacation!

1. DO use a travel agent: Especially if you haven’t been to a Disney park in the last 5 years. I say this all the time – this ain’t your momma’s Disney anymore! The Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim and, yes, even the ships as part of the Disney Cruise Line, are all going through lots of AMAZING changes and updates. It feels like things are literally changing daily! My job is to pay attention to these things, recognize what will (and what won’t) affect your trip, adjust your trip as necessary for new experiences, and guide you through it all so you have the best trip possible! We’re also the first to know of any discounts and deals that you could take advantage of, saving you time and money.

 

2. DON’T crowd-source planning your vacation. If you Google “best resort at Walt Disney World”, you’re going to get a WHOLE lot of responses, and many of them varied. Trip reports and reviews are a-plenty. Asking your friends will open up so many more opinions, and you can suddenly find yourself down a rabbit hole of questioning your plans. It can be incredibly overwhelming, and everyone does mean well! But everyone travels differently and has different priorities. Keep in mind what is best for you and your family. Do you want to be steps away from the Magic Kingdom? Is having a fantastic pool more important to you than anything else? These are just a few of the questions that will help you decide on what’s most important on your vacation, and I can help guide you on the rest.  Don’t let other people’s judgements cloud yours. Everyone is different!

 

3.  DO plan ahead: To maximize your time and have the BEST chance at securing your favorite resort room or some of those harder-to-get reservations, planning ahead is your best bet. Disney rolls out future packages certain times of the year (as of publish time, 2020 packages through October are available to book) and only asks for a $200 deposit to secure your reservation. This means you have more time to budget and make smaller payments AND have your plans in place so you can take advantage of your advance dining reservations at 180 days out and your FastPass+ reservations at 60 days out – both of which are crucial to making the most of your vacation!

 

4.  DO travel when it’s best for you and your family. One of the most frequent questions I’m asked is “when is the best time to go?” and my response is always “what works best for you? That’s the best time to go.” Disney does a fantastic job at making sure there is always something going on within the parks, whether its celebrating holidays, special events, or festivals – the choices can get overwhelming! Instead, tell me what your availability or restrictions are: are you limited to school vacations? Can you only travel during the summer? Or are you flexible and want to travel during a special occasion? Once I know those details, then we can work together on a time that makes the most sense for you.

 

5.  DON’T forget to pack your patience – and be kind! Walt Disney World is the MOST visited vacation resort in the world, with an average of 52 million visitors annually! (Disneyland is a close second.) People from all over the world and all walks of life travel to the Disney Parks and Resorts for the same reason you do – to enjoy the magic! This also means that you’ll come across fellow guests who are just as eager as you are to ride Space Mountain, eat at Cinderella’s Royal Table, or meet Anna and Elsa. As I mentioned before, having a great plan in place will be SO helpful to keep your time in line short and your dining choices already set, but you can’t control how others react and behave. It can also be incredibly overwhelming and exhausting at times for you, too! As your travel agent, I’ll empower you with everything you need if you have to make changes on the fly, and be there to assist you with anything you’re having trouble with, but don’t beat yourself up if you need to take a breather for yourself. Vacation burnout is real! And please be nice to the Cast Members! They want to make your visit enjoyable and fix any issues that they can. Honey will get you a lot further than vinegar.

 

Ashleigh Bergh

Ashleigh is an independent consultant with The Enchanted Traveler.  Since the age of 3 she has lived & breathed all things Disney!  Rather than considering it a vacation, Ashleigh sees it as her home away from home.  In fact, before she was even planning as a profession, she was doing it for fun for her friends and family!

All of Ashleigh’s vacation planning services begin with a FREE consultation.  In this phone consultation, you’ll  discuss your travel needs and desires, go over your travel preferences, travel history, she’ll learn about your family and what they like, budget ranges and more.  Together you’ll discuss some options and general price ranges, and go over questions.

 

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Leading Ladies: Jae B of Alfa Jae Salon LLC.

I’m Jae B & I own and operate Alfa Jae Salon LLC a salon suite in Cary, NC.

I specialize in vivid colors, blonding & extensions.

 

Q & A

 

Q:  When did you open your business?

A:  After being in the business for 4.5 years I decided to open Alfa Jae Salon in October 2017.

 

Q:  What made you take the leap to start it up?

A:  Since I am a really unique person and have really amazing and unique clients, I felt it was important for me to have my own space.

 

Q:  What inspires you?

A:  Growing up I loved to draw and thought I would be an artist when I grew up. Instead I decided to be a hair stylist and decided to put my artistic creativity into my work. I get all my creativity from my mom.

 

Q:  What’s been your biggest challenge? 

A:  My biggest challenge has been to focus on what I love to do as a hair stylist. I used to do any and everything that was asked of me. Once I learned to focus on the things I loved to do most, I excelled in my career and my passion for coloring hair grew as well.

 

Q:  What local businesses do you love supporting?

A:  In my free time I love going to Remedy Diner & The Flying Biscuit. I also love The Fuzzy Bee Waxing Studio , Pamela Christians Facials & Peels & Spa Retreat Cary.

 

Q:  Not really a question, but tell me about yourself!  Hobbies? Interests?  What are you doing when you’re not working?

A:  I love to crochet, draw & write. I have a 5 month old Pomchillon who I love to walk and play with.  I love the tv shows Friends, Game of thrones, Dexter, American horror Story, & The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

 

Q:   What advice do you have for ladies who are wanting to start their own business?

A:  Starting your own business can be extremely hard and scary. The best thing to do is believe in yourself. Don’t sell yourself short & speak to yourself as if you are royalty. People will treat you how you treat yourself.

 

Q:  Where do you see your business in 5 years?

A:  In 5 years I see myself in my own space with my brand elevated to the highest level.

 

 

***CrazyCaryMom Special Offer***

10% off your FIRST visit when you mention ‘CrazyCaryMom.’

 

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Polished by April, a hidden gem.

What does self-care mean to you?  To me, it means remembering to make myself a priority.  One of the very first things I did after having the kids was drastically cut back on personal/self-maintenance appointments.  One of the things that topped that list was getting my nails done.  It only took me FOUR YEARS to realize I need to treat myself to feel myself!  To help pretty up my ‘fat sausage fingers’ (a man once told me this on the train) I headed to Polished by April.   A true HIDDEN GEM, April is a one-woman nail salon owner who is one of the only technicians in the area to offer Gel-X… what is Gel-X you may be wondering? A much safer & better alternative to acrylics! 

 

Polished by April

A loving mother of 2, April opened up here business in 2015 after wanting to combine her passion for doing nails & the ability to create a flexible career schedule for her children.  

Inspired by her family & the everyday beauty of art, April hopes to continue her business growth but faces the struggle of gaining the attention of new clients. 

April’s newest location is tucked away inside a business park with no visible branding from the street.  As you could imagine, this makes for no new ‘walk-by’ clients.  In today’s world, word of mouth is king, so I’m hoping this post about my experience will inspire you to support this VERY talented artist.

 

My Experience 

This momma was in need of some upgrading.  While I would normally get a gel manicure, I decided to try the Gel-X extensions and get a much needed pedicure as well.

Gel-X

Gel-X is made up from the same gel that’s used in the gel nail polish.   It’s a safe alternative to add length to your regular nails, without the powder or harsh chemicals involved.   They go on like a press-on would and are long lasting with up to four weeks of life depending upon your natural nail growth. 

The Gel-X Process

• Your nails are prepped as they normally would be for a manicure.  I found that the tools she used were much nicer than what I’m used to & I believe more effective.
• A thin layer of a clear gel is brushed on your nails then the extension is firmly placed on top, evenly dispersing the gel.
• An LED light is used to bond the gel with the extension onto your actual nail.

Why is Gel-X better than acrylics?

Well, the fact that the FDA continues to warn the public about the hazardous chemicals in them are enough for me!  Due to poor regulation in the nail industry, some salons still use acrylics containing methyl methacrylate; which has been known to be damaging to  your nervous system.

 

Overall

I really enjoyed my experience with April.  She is kind, easy to talk to and very talented.  Throughout the entire process she took her time with each and every step.  I never felt rushed or uncomfortable.  I really liked how exclusive her spot is.  Unlike most other locations, it’s not a heavily trafficked salon, so you are able to relax, have conversation or even get work done depending on the service you are getting.  We chatted almost the entire time because as some of you may know, I never stop talking.  On top of her outstanding results, I also enjoyed her comfortable pedicure, selection of color & complimentary wine.  I will absolutely be returning!

***CrazyCaryMom Special Offer***

$5 off your first appointment when you mention ‘CRAZYCARYMOM’

 

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