Meeting Anna Wintour

Over the years, I had heard so many things about Anna Wintour. Many view Anna as the woman on top of the fashion world. Many consider American Vogue, a magazine where she has worked as editor-in-chief for more than twenty years, the sacred book of fashion. I personally thought of her as a woman with an amazing drive to do her job well, one that many people respect because of her commitment and dedication.

My perspective of Anna changed a few days ago when I had the unbelievable opportunity of meeting her in New York City. I must share what an amazing experience that was. One of those moments in life I will always remember. I walked away thinking of Anna as the accomplished woman she is but more so as a wonderful human being who is truly an example and inspiration. Her position doesn't define her, Anna herself defines her title, her way. Did you know that Anna Wintour is responsible for raising millions of dollars to support the arts with an annual gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute? She is also actively involved with fund-raising for AIDS research. Let's not forget she is also a mother.

I'm very lucky to say: I have spent time with Ms. Wintour!

Hope

My good friend Liz put together an amazing event last Tuesday to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association, New York City Chapter. The fundraiser took place at Kiss & Fly, a top venue/club in the Meatpacking District. I have been to many fundraisers but this one was different: the crowd was young, energetic and totally diverse. It was seeing a new generation of younger people coming together to make a difference NOW. It gave me so much hope that even in tough times in the economy and politics, people can still get out and support a great cause.

Me in a beautiful designer gown. Totally Cinderella!

With the WPIX 11 News Team who came out to support.

My logo made it into this intricate and detailed cake.

The list of sponsors who joined the cause.

Racing For The Cure!

Pictures curtesy of George Lange, www.langestudio.com

Did you know the United States has the highest annual incidence rates of breast cancer in the world? How can I not be part of "Race for the Cure" when so many families are losing mothers, sisters, wives, friends, husbands, brothers, nieces, granddaughters and the list goes on. The Susan G. Komen Foundation North Jersey Affiliate did a phenomenal job at organizing this year's event in West Orange, New Jersey. And yes, I had a pink wig on to honor all of those who are victims of this terrible epidemic.

Toward the end of the day, a young lady approached me to let me know she had purchased my pink Flipbag to give to a special person in her life who is fighting breast cancer. Compliments don't get better than that.

http://www.komennorthjersey.org/

Sharing My Story for a Cause at Baltusrol Golf Club

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to speak at an Overlook Hospital fundraising event that took place at Baltusrol Golf Club. My experience was absolutely amazing from my arrival just looking at the breathtaking grounds, to my interaction with the staff at the club, to meeting the wonderful people who take time to give back to Overlook and each day make a difference in the lives of so many people.

I decided to open my presentation with a quote that inspires me each time I read it. I told the audience that I hoped it would inspired them and now I hope it will inspire you. So here it is:

"Risk more than others think is safe. Care more thank others think is wise. Dream more than others think is practical. Expect more than others think is possible." Cadet Maxim

Entrepreneurship is about taking a risk, but isn't life in general about taking risks and going through changes?

SOME THOUGHTS ON HANDBAGS

Sometimes people ask me for help or suggestions about how to launch a handbag line. Please keep in mind that every case is very different. For me, I don’t have a background in design but I’m a handbag lover and understand concepts and ideas.

I am a firm believer that if you are serious and passionate about making an idea a reality or bringing a product to the market place, you should know this is not going to be an easy road. If this is your calling, you must take it seriously. It’s very hard work. I do know from experience that if you love what you are doing, especially if it’s your own project, you will not see it as “hard work,” you will see it as an extension of you.

I didn’t know anyone in the accessory business. My last job had been as a News Reporter for a TV Network. I then took some time to spend with my daughter while she was a baby. While at home with my daughter, I took time to develop ideas by creating drawings, prototypes and taking care of the legal process of filing for patents, trademark, etc. I had no connections in the field and literally had no clues on other steps to follow.

I decided to join a networking group for women entrepreneurs called Ladies Who Launch. Ladies Who Launch became a support system. I met many women who were in the process of starting their businesses. There are plenty of networking groups out there. Take advantage of their workshops. Talk to everyone you meet. You never know who will give you the connection you are looking for. One thing I must tell you, no organization or connection will do the work for you -- you need to do it yourself. Keep in mind that every challenge becomes a learning opportunity.

I started researching factories in the north east to make professional prototypes (prototypes are expensive). I finally found one in New Jersey. From there it was just a matter of knocking on doors and showing my product. Expect rejection. There is plenty of that but it’s part of the process.

Show your work to family, friends and most importantly prospective buyers. Get their feedback and see their reactions. There were times I would wear my bag and talk to people about it without them knowing it was actually my design. They would tell me why they liked it and how much they would pay for it. Then they would ask: Where did you get it? So, visit stores, talk to the owners or buyers, ask them if they will carry your line. Try every avenue.

Here’s another thing to consider. Once you create one product, make sure you are working on others to follow. Also, create a website. Design what your brand is going to look like.

In the end, I love what I’m doing. I love creating and seeing something come to life. As many of you know, one of the biggest challenges in business is marketing. Take every opportunity to talk about your story, what makes your product special and how it’s helping your consumers. After all, is about them, not about you. Why would anybody want to buy your bags? What is your story?

Best of luck.

An afternoon with Mr. Big!

I don't know about you but I was very much into "Sex and the City." I love New York City, its diversity, culture and fashion. The show did a phenomenal job at showcasing these aspects. So, when it came to spend some time with Mr. Big, I was a happy camper! I know, his real name is Christ Noth but to many, he will always be: Mr. Big!

My bags were featured on WPIX 11 Morning Show in New York!

Tamsen Fadal, Anchor of WPIX 11 Morning Show wears one of my bags.

Ashley Reeves, Model