Archives for "Life"
what summer brings
Summer is teaming up to be a busy season for me, strategy-wise (sales wise, who knows?!). In addition to running Metropolis as is, I’m also working on the new look of the company. So far it’s all coming together well, but as with most things, it’s going to take some serious budgeting and cost-measuring.
It’s also tedious as hell. Nothing like analyzing the opacity of a swirl to make sure it prints well.
I’ve also began tinkering with the idea of a new product line…okay well actually there are 3 different product lines, but I think that I might hold off on all of this until the new aesthetic is underway.
If you recall, one of my goals for the year was to be at the Natural Products Expo in Baltimore this September. At the moment, it just doesn’t seem to be shaping up for that to work unless more capital comes in quickly. I’m disappointed but not as much as you would think…I know Metropolis has grown leaps and bounds this year alone, so I think planning out my wholesale strategy (in terms of tradeshows) might wait until 2013. In the meantime, I think getting all of my aesthetically-pleasing ducks in order is the best method.
Summer also brings my vacation to Vancouver with my family and I’m so thrilled to be getting away, if for only a week. It will give me a chance to get some perspective…but also give me time to NOT think about my company (though I really can’t help myself!)
I’m here, but never content.
Sorry, guys.
There’s been some crazy things going on that have taken the majority of my time and instead of pushing through and keeping to my schedule, I’ve slacked off and let this poor blog go by the wayside.
Over the past month I’ve had some trunk shows happen in some fancy yoga spas. I’ve also had the privilege (which I can’t spell…which goes to show you how rarely I feel privileged) to have some awesome publicity through local news sources and ran a sale on the awesome sneakpeeq.com. In the interim I also took on a part-time social media job to help bring in some steady income. The job is pretty amazing and, for once, a job thinks it’s actually a good thing that I’m an entrepreneur.
When to stand up and say “no.”
A few years ago I was at a show with a friend and fellow soaper, and after we had both set up our booths we went to Starbucks for coffee (which was ridiculous since it was 9am and the temperature was already in the high 80s. I digress…) Her sister had asked us to bring her a cup of ice back, too. So we ordered our beverages and she included her cup of ice in the order. We go to wait for our drinks and get them, but no cups of ice to be seen. She is standing there contemplating who to inquire to (and being annoyed) so I walked back to the “pick up” table to ask the barista for a large cup of ice. My friend gets the cup and laughs while saying “You are such a New Y0rker.”
What was the point of that story? Except for the big smile that statement put across my face it was to show that, for many years, I would have waited back in line, or would’ve stood there tapping my foot until they realized the error of their ways (maybe never?). And that’s not right. Granted, there are MANY times when you’ll look dickish or pushy but I have learned that some times, you ARE entitled to not be pushed over or forgotten.
Recently I was part of an organization…
Yes. this is the week.
I am terrified
I am excited.
I am not ready.
I AM READY.
There are still little tedious things to do, like fold brochures and pack products, and update my Ikea shopping list for the 32nd time. But all of the major things are done, all of the plans are finalized, and the culmination is here.
I have no expectations, honestly if I make my costs back (~$5k) then I would be the happiest person in the world. I could coast for a few months on that and hopefully not have to go back on the job hunt.
Stay tuned.
Planning for the New Year
My calendar overfloweth.
In planning for 2012, I’ve been spending most of my time not sleeping. The insomnia has become increasingly stronger and stronger as I think about all of the details of the upcoming months. I’m nervously awaiting my photographer friend to send me back the images for the products so I can get the catalogs and postcards printed for the show. On top of that I’m launching some new products at the NYIGF so I’m ordering supplies and packaging for those. Plus I need to figure out transportation, Ikea price list, and coordinate the times when people will be helping me at the show. I’ve also got to send products that were selected for an eco-friendly display that must be sent out soon.
PLUS I’ve got to begin planning out my trunk show at Henri Bendels in late February. They were generous enough to give me a whole week in February for the show, but this means I need staff. I have reached the point in my life where a straight week of standing on my feet without eating or bathroom breaks is tantamount to torture, and I will have to hire someone to assist me during this time.
Also looking for an intern to assist me with marketing and such.
And theres my laundry list of insanity 
Me + You = Friends?
