Giving from the heart...

In trying times, one is often bombarded with various organizations that need donations, and deservedly so.  Unemployment continues to keep revenues at a stalemate, natural disasters paralyze already suffering communities.  Fundraisers are at an all time high, as with celebrities outreaching for text-to-donate for their foundation.  I often wish I could just be like Donald Trump and donate 1000's at a whim to every needy cause that crosses my path, and I look forward to that day when business is booming and we can all dig a little deeper and help each other as 'good samaritans' were intended.

However, I know that day is not here yet.  And I know that as much as we would like to donate giving is becoming more and more difficult for millions.  So, what can the person give who just doesn't have enough to spare?

Your heart.  I spent the afternoon yesterday with a group of whole-hearted women who did just  that,  spreading inspiration and joy to children all over the world.  I attend my first event with Women Empowered where we rolled up our sleeves and created dozens of greetings for Cards for Kids.  "Cards for Kids creates handmade and painted cards for children facing poverty, homelessness, or difficult circumstances: the kids are affiliated with organizations worldwide. The countries that the cards are sent to include Guatemala, the Philippines, Tanzania, Kenya, Eastern Europe (Ukraine), and the United States. The cards and messages inside brighten the children's day and bring smiles to their faces."

It was truly an uplifting experience for all involved.  We turned on the tunes, busted out the construction paper and glitter and put Martha Stewart herself to shame.  The bonding experience bridged like-minded women on the move from all walks of life focused on the mission of sending a ray of hope to someone who may have never received a pat on the back or words of encouragement. 

The day was truly a reminder that even the smallest gift of kindness - your words - can make a difference in your life and the lives of those within your reach.  Programs like Cards for Kids increases that reach with the realization that you can motivate anyone around the world.  The only thing it requires is for you to show up and care.

Kai Expressions looks forward to working with local organizations such as Women Empowered and is making preparations for our partnership with the Downtown Women's Center.  We currently donate a portion of all sales, replicated from a similar program in Boston that amounted to $800 donated to Rosie's Place.  Stay tuned, and we invite you to find your own niche to get involved...

My Crib Sheet: Kai Expressions

See below for a one-on-one interview with Kai Expressions designer and founder, Janine Robinson:

What is your business?

Kai Expressions excels in unique handcrafted jewelry and is dedicated to providing high quality one-of-a-kind designs with humble pricing. Our latest branch, Kai Keepsakes, specializes in customized pieces, such as custom wedding ensembles and charm bracelets. We honor varied cultures and diversity, and you will see that our collections suit a broad variety of tastes. In addition to promoting culture, at Kai Expressions we also take pride in elevating self-esteem and uplifting the community. We were proud to develop a philanthropic program donating over $800 to a sanctuary for poor and homeless women in Massachusetts, and look forward to expanding the program in Southern California at the Downtown Women's Center. Additionally, we have made donations to various other organizations that focus on health, education and finding homes for women and children.

What motivated you to start your business?

I have had a creative nature since a was a small child, always using drawing or writing to express myself since I was able to hold a pencil! My company actually started with custom handcrafted event favors since I was always creating small gifts for family affairs. My first check as an entrepreneur was for creating 50 custom mint tins for a bachelorette party! Eventually the winds shifted and I began creating earrings after a brief trip to Michael's. I take great pride in creating a work of art with my own two hands, no matter how small, how personal, how intricate. Jewelry is an extension of this passion to create uniqueness, and accessorizing is the outmost form of self expression!

How long have you been running your business?
My business began in 2005, and I received my first official business certificate in 2006.  I am working on a five year anniversary kick off celebration... stay tuned!

How long would you say it took you to make a profit/become successful (however you choose to measure success)?
My jewelry had a slow start and really didn't begin to take legs for about a year and a half when I started selling at craft fairs. By then my designs had sharpened and the variety of pieces I created increased from just earrings to full sets, bracelets, earring frame holders and wine charms. By consistently participating in one location and gathering a mailing list I was able to create a following and continued relationships with my clients.

How did your family react to you starting your own business?
My family was and still is extremely supportive of my business. They have been involved from the very start, ranging from voting on the name, testing out designs and many have spent hours with set up, take down and being fully present at events. I never once felt I was in over my head and my family was right there with me as I lifted Kai Expressions off the ground.

Easiest part of the job?

Creating the designs. I love to look for the most unique and luxurious looking beads and crystals and honestly have a ball when it comes to creating my jewelry. And the best part? Expanding my own jewelry collection!

Hardest part of the job?
Exposure. People who see my jewelry love it, but increasing the number of people that are able to see it, touch it, wear it is a challenge. I do have a great website, however, I have found that in purchasing jewelry many would like to see it in person, and photos don’t always do the right justice. I have been working on growing our fan base with social networks, which is fun for me but difficult when I know people are flooded with “online overload” these days.

What skill would you most like to improve?
Networking. I believe I have a great foundation for my business, and a great product, but I would like to let more people know what I have to offer. Some higher profile clients would also be a great asset a I continue to grow in Southern California.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Following through. I have had two big changes that effected my business: 1.) the economy and 2.) moving across the country. Both have had an impact on buying trends and a shift in my client base. I have seen other business fall but am proud that Kai Expressions is still holding strong, and the creativity is only improving. I have my clients, fan base and family to thank for that.

What tools or advice do you wish you knew then that you know now?

I wish I had laid out a business plan from the start. Because it started as more of a hobby, I have had to piece together a plan of action. I recently stumbled across a great book, The Guided Business Plan by Melanie Rae, that has been really helpful in getting my thoughts, marketing, targets and vision together. If I had it 4 or5 years ago I think the initial journey may not have been so bumpy.

Inspiration?
My upbringing has inspired me to do whatever I set my mind to.

Least likely to…
…give up creating!

My life…
... has only just begun. I look forward to the wonderful memories and accomplishments that lay ahead...

What’s your top tip for a women looking to go into business?
Go for it! You have a passion and it's ready to be released. You will be rewarded with the sacrifice of hard work and cherished time. Organize, deep, and dive in...

Crafter to CEO: Ready to turn your hobby into a business?

So you have been honing your craft and now you are ready for customer exposure. Congratulations -- you ARE ready, and this confidence is the hardest step. Next items of business: get informed, get organized, and get started.

Research the various vehicles for reaching an audience. Ecommerce is still holding on, and while visibility may be a challenge, access online is a great start. You will need to consider 1.) how your potential customers can view your business and 2.) how you can outreach to an increased audience. Etsey.com is an example of showcasing handcrafted products - you can create your own weblink from their site (i.e. potential customers can access your business via a link you provide) and you can post your business for access to general Etsey viewers. Zibbet.com is another option.  Ebay is another avenue to sell your merchandise for low overhead costs, although bare in mind your competition maybe vast. There are also sites that showcase various artists, such as experiencenations.com,  for increased exposure. Classifieds may also work for you, such as Craig's List -- you will need to incorporate photos of your work, however, this tool will have a short shelf-life. And of course, a blog is your best bet to continually engage with your fan base.  Once you get your business more established, creating your own ecommerce website will be most beneficial to manage the look and feel for your business and garner a steadfast reputation. There are several web developers that can provide templates and recommend Merchant account providers that will allow you to set up a shopping cart. The monthly fees can add up, which is why leveraging an existing network first might be more economical.

Another outlet to research is face-to-face exposure. As widely as ecommerce is growing, some customers still need to touch and feel your product in person. Craft fairs are an excellent opportunity to reach new audiences and build your client base. Sites such as craftlister.com can help identify shows in your area, as well as contacting local city halls or a Google search. Holiday fairs are huge, and in warm weather outdoor fairs and farmer's markets attract heavy traffic. Space gets filled up, so you will need to do your research and apply several months in advance. With a few supplies such as a tent (suggest a $90 investment at Wal-Mart) a couple of tables (for example $40 6 foot tables at Staples), and customized marketing materials (from vendors such as vistaprint.com) you are well on your way to making it happen. Once you get into the circuit, speak to your fellow vendors about other shows they are familiar with, as they are essentially your greatest resource. Bring a sign up sheet to develop a mailing list and continue to be visible with your now interested audience. Vendors who can accept credit cards will at an advantage (you can check with your bank for options, such as merchant accounts with Citizens or Bank of America). You may also tap into local restaurants and stores (i.e. consignment shops) who would be willing to let you temporarily set up a display or event for a targeted audience.

When you are ready to establish your business, be sure to research your state laws. You will need verify a unique name and have it registered with your city hall. You may wish to consider a tax id and set up a separate business account. You should investigate what sales taxes you will need to pay and how best to transfer this per each transaction. There are many steps once you get started, which is why spending some time upfront to gather information and get organized will be well worth your time. I recommed the BizExpress Toolbar for a one-stop-shop set of links to get you started, particularly in California, provided by the Guided Business Plan. This will help avoid being overwhelmed and give you more energy to the one aspect that can get overlooked: enjoying the activity that kept you relaxed and creative originally. Give in to your innovative spirit, but be sure to enjoy the benefits of today's entrepreneurs at the same time. Good luck, and keep at it!