Anderson's Bookshop

December 3, 2019 Dana Steinecker

There is no place, quite like a good book store. I love taking my kiddos into a bookstore to explore, we never leave empty handed-and we never leave without sitting on the ground reading a book together. There is something about wandering around a collection of information, stories, biographies, cookbooks and more.

I had the pleasure of wandering into Anderson’s Bookshop in Naperville. This little gem has history and is on-trend, all at once. The walls are covered with signatures of authors that walked through this community and came into Anderson’s to host a book signing and meet their fans, readers, and community members. You can really feel the energy of each and every author as you read their sentiments and see their signatures.

The amount of care and creativity throughout the shop is impressive. From suggested books, to hand written reviews about authors and stories. I had a personal favorite, the Holiday Book Angles. Anderson’s Bookshop has a giving tree for all ages during this time of year, to help all become and continue to be lifetime readers. You can donate a gift card, select an ornament with a child, their age and book suggestion, and/or purchase a book for a specific age. What a great gift to give. Anderson’s Bookshop offers so many ways in which they give back to others, and to the community. Read more about Anderson’s Gives Back.

Choose a Child, Choose a Book, Change a Life.

You can check out Anderson’s Bookshop calendar for events happening now. Also take a stroll into the shop and discover some unique presentations of reading and encouraging readers. Blind Date books or Secret Story with hand drawn covers, are a perfect night in this winter. Anderson’s friendly staff can suggest a book to gift, and wrap the book in original artwork/hand drawn gift wrap.
Such a unique gift idea for those creative readers on your list.

A BIT ABOUT ANDERSON’S BOOKSHOP

Anderson’s Bookshops, Anderson’s Toyshop and Anderson’s Bookfair Company
Website: www.andersonsbookshop.com.
Contact Info becky@andersonsbookshop.com - or - 630-355-2665
Locations: Naperville, Downers Grove, La Grange, Aurora

Meet Becky Anderson-one of the many lifelines of Anderson’s Bookshop in Naperville and learn more about her lineage and inspirations to keep Anderson’s Bookshop within her family and keep the love for reading alive.

Becky is a fifth generation “Napervillian”. She has lived in Naperville most of her life. Becky has three grown children, who have all worked in the business at different times growing up. Becky started working in their family drugstore, Oswald’s Pharmacy, when she was 11 years old. All three of her brothers work in the family businesses-Becky is still in business with two of three brothers right now in the book parts of the business.

"Your" people, your family, friends, those who inspire you and keep you going:
Our employees inspire me each and every day with their passion and creativity. I’m also inspired by my colleagues in independent book selling around the country. My husband and children are an incredible support system. One of my biggest inspirations of course is the authors and illustrators and the books they write and illustrate. Selling a books is like no other retail and those who create them are a huge inspiration for me every day. But what keeps me going is our community and the other communities in which we work; school districts, individual schools, educators, not for profits, and most of all the community of readers. The sharing of a book and the conversation that occurs over a good read is priceless.

When did you start your business and why?
It was our great great grandfather William Wallace Wickel that started our original family business, a drugstore in 1875. The drugstore is still in business today. We sold books from the very beginning and the first official bookstore was opened by our grandfather in 1964 above the pharmacy in the building that is now Ted’s Montana Grill. The pride we have as a family about our family businesses is what got me back into the business when a key employee left. It’s the joy of creating special events and placing the right book in the right readers hands that has kept me in our family business.

What was your inspiration to take the leap of faith or just go for it?
When I got back in the business when my husband I moved back to Naperville was being asked to step in because a key employee left. I didn’t intend to stay in the business but having the freedom and the creativity to help grow the business is what has kept me there.

What advice would you give moms or dads ~ who are starting their own company, or looking to change career paths or life paths?
Do what you love what brings you joy. Get out there connect with people the community in anyway you can. Getting outside your four walls is essential in order for a business to survive and thrive.

In life we have chapters, what would this chapter be titled?
In a brief overview, where have you come from and where are you heading?

I‘d Call this chapter of my life, Don’t Say Why - Say Why Not.
In order to grow you have to think outside of the box. But you also need to take chances. I really feel like I’ve helped our business become nationally known and helped to put us on the map. We host over 400 events a year now, many of them with well-known authors, celebrities, sports stars and so many more. We also have a great reputation of incredible service and suggesting books for any reader. My goal is to make sure that we stay a key part in our communities; A welcoming place where people can come for a great conversation and find a friend and a great book. Our mission statement says that our goal is to create lifelong readers and the work we do in promoting great children’s literature in anyway we can is a large part of that

How do you start your day?
Coffee of course! And read the newspapers.
Knowing what’s going on in the world in your community is so important for anyone’s business.

“A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies..... The man who never reads only lives one. ”

— George R.R. Martin

Bread & Butter Home

June 12, 2019 Dana Steinecker

Bread & Butter Home

A little slice of heaven on the corner of 1st and Armitage in downtown Elmhurst city center. The eclectic home-decor store front, Bread & Butter Home, offers a variety of aesthetically pleasing accessories and decorative finishing touches for your home and style. Jessica Berg, owner and decorator extraordinaire, has a talented eye in her process of selecting unique styling pieces. Whether you're a decorator, designer or home owner, Bread & Butter Home provides the simple necessities to make any space a comfortable and creative setting.

Jessica has a knack not just for design, details and beyond - but for simply listening.
She really hears her clients and fills her store with one of a kind pieces for their home, gifts and design concepts. She works on the concept of turning a house into a home through their individual taste and style. Adding in colors and completely creating an atmosphere to gather people.

I was so lucky to watch the process of Jessica’s family home get built. Their tasteful home is filled with personality and delicate designs throughout. Artwork cascades on their walls, with complimentary colors throughout their home. A favorite piece I was so lucky to see in person, was a breakfast nook that Jessica’s father designed and handcrafted. A gathering place for their family to eat, play games and just gather.

Get to know Jessica & the heart and soul of
Bread And Butter Home
Location 131 W. 1st Elmhurst
www.breadandbutterhome.com
312-543-3440

Who are "your" people? Those who inspire you and keep you going?

Thankfully, I have a close group of family and friends that understand and recognize my passion for home décor and have always encouraged me to follow my dreams.

My husband, CJ, is my biggest cheerleader. He jokingly calls me “The Talent,” which means the world to me and keeps me moving and pushing myself every single day.

My Mom has the same passion, so she is my wing-woman when it comes to finding great items for the store and curating the right aesthetic. We love to go to the home shows together.

I also draw inspiration from my Dad, who’s a very talented woodworker. He makes the most gorgeous wood items for the store. His charcutier boards, pizza peals, trays made from vodka barrels and so many other amazing items are some of my best-sellers. He can’t make them fast enough!

Lastly, I am inspired by my children.
It’s important they see me doing something I love, and they’ve been a ton of help within the store.

When did you start your business and why?

Owning a home decor store has always been a dream. I grew up with a passion for decorating. As a child I would rearrange my room weekly! Making home spaces warm and inviting has always been a favorite of mine. Hopefully, my clients see that same warm aesthetic in my inventory at Bread & Butter Home.

I also come from a long-line of retail store owners. Going back to my great-great Grandpa, who owned a small grocery store in the early 1900s. I have pictures of his old store and it resembles the 100-year-old space Bread & Butter currently occupies. I often picture him sweeping his floors 100 years prior when I sweep mine. There is something nostalgic about that thought that I absolutely love.

What was your inspiration to take the leap of faith or just go for it?

Bread & Butter 131 W 1ST ST. ELMHURST — Bread & Butter
131 W 1ST ST. ELMHURST

Timing was everything. After years of researching potential locations in Elmhurst, the spot I had always wanted became available. My husband and I saw that as a sign and decided to make the jump.

Seeing the development in Elmhurst made our decision an easier one as well. We’re so excited to be part of the growing retail community here. I think things are just getting started.

What advice would you give moms or dads ~ who are starting their own company, or looking to change career paths or life paths?

Make sure you’re passionate about your endeavor. There are several ancillary responsibilities that fall outside of that passion. You need to make sure your love for the business makes those other struggles worth it.

Also, understand your business is a journey of growth. Focus on your daily, weekly, and annual goals so you can be more forgiving of yourself in the short-term.

Lastly, you are going to get so many suggestions and advice from just about everyone. Be respective, digest them, but stay true to your brand. You won’t be successful building someone else’s vision.

In life we have chapters, what would this chapter be titled?

Community!

One of the best things about owning my store are the people I’ve been fortunate enough to meet. My customers have been a huge part of my success by simply recommending Bread & Butter to others. I appreciate the “buy local” mentality as it helps keep small businesses in Elmhurst thriving.

The other store and restaurant owners have been so supportive and helpful as well. It is a great tribe of people. As a community, we can work together to raise each other up and keep Elmhurst the best town in Chicago.

In a brief overview, where have you come from and where are you heading?

I began by finding the exact aesthetic I wanted to represent my brand. The first year was spent combing through catalogs, websites and traveling to different trade shows around the country. Eventually, I had to just trust my decisions.

Once we opened, and my initial inventory sold, I looked for more unique items to replace it. The longer we’re open, the more risks I’ve made. I want people to come the store and notice the changes with each visit. I am always on the hunt.

So far, I have been fortunate enough to maintain a weekly buying schedule while growing my business. There is not a destination or end point, I want to forever be evolving.

How do you start your day?

It’s varies from day to day, but I always start with the toughest thing on my list first. Once it’s done, my day only gets easier.

Also, I always make my bed – it just makes me feel better.

What is your favorite inspiring quote, by who?

I have a few. As someone who collects home décor magazines, I have seen my share of inspiring quotes.

“I am going to make everything around me beautiful- that will be my life.”

— Elsie de Wolfe

I love that she makes no apologies about surrounding herself with beautiful things.
There should be no shame in that.

“The best rooms have something to say about the people that live in them.”

— David Hicks

This one is great, because the best rooms are built over time – not just plopped from a showroom floor.
Buy things you love over your lifetime.

Advice you'd give to entrepreneurs looking to start up their own business:

As I mentioned before, starting your own business involves far more than just being passionate about something; although that’s a great start.

You need to evaluate all the responsibilities in front of you. If you find you have a weakness, find trusted people to help. Are you a people person? Do you have a firm grasp on accounting and contracts? Are you comfortable with networking, social media and marketing?

If not, surround yourself with people that excel in these areas. Don’t feel unaccomplished if you need help. You can’t be all-things to your business and hiring the right people will help elevate your brand in the end.

Lastly, there is nothing more satisfying than the continued growth of your own business. It makes the hours of hard work so much more rewarding than working for someone else.

www.breadandbutterhome.com
312-543-3440
Location 131 W. 1st Elmhurst, Il

Those Who Wander

April 7, 2019 Dana Steinecker

Not all who wander are lost.

Another adventure in the books. We have a thing for exploring, getting out of our comfort zone and off the grid. We laugh because through all of life, we all travel very well together. Our travel is not for everyone. I’ll hear the compliments that our trip looked fun, beautiful and all things in between. But, this type of traveling comes with those things that are not picture perfect on Instagram.

When we wander, we always have to make a plan. We need a route, we need that route to get us to our destination in the daylight and we need to be properly packed. When we camp it comes with days ahead of prepping. We tent camp. We do it well. I’d like to think I pack more efficiently than someone else, but don’t let him know that. We have to pack knowing the days and what we’ll be pulling out to wear.

When you tent camp-there are a few considerations to not take lightly. If you’re in Bear territory-you cannot smell like any thing. You cannot leave your scent on anything. Which means a lot of plastic bins, a lot of plastic bags, and bear spray as your best friend.

Once you’ve eaten, all food items need to be properly washed away from the camp site, and put away typically in your car, or bear box. Garbage needs to be disposed in bear aware garbage containers away from the campsite.

S’mores can happen, but then headlamps and a late night trek to the car are due to put everything back.

This particular trip we took we were on the outskirts of the Carolinas in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
We were on a camp site which took reservations, which most State Parks are first come first serve. This particular site was along a rapid stream. Truly the noise machine was our river. But, with no volume or off button. Campers were sparse. We were along the Appalachian Trail, allowing campers to come in at night and rest. One night campers came in past midnight and I laid awake watching their flashlights and shadows and prayed we would all be alive in the morning, imagining scenes from every bad 80’s horror movie I’ve watched.
In bear aware territory I sleep with this fun knife. Really it would mean a bear or mountain lion would have to have already attacked us to do anything. And unlike the stories we read, these animals really want nothing to do with us, but I still feel we’d be a light appetizer for some.

We were in Black Bear territory. When we arrived I asked the ranger how many bear sightings and how far from the site they were. He kinda laughed and said,
“You’re in their territory, this is where they live, they were sighted about a mile out, a sighting every day”-lovely. Black Bear, still wild animals, don’t create that fear in me the way Grizzly and Puma do.

When the kids asked me if they had to be scared of bear or mountain lion more, I honestly told them mountain lion. (My exact words when I found out we were in puma territory was “they eat your face off-but don’t run from them”, meant to be sarcastic, but didn’t sit well with a few). When we hike, we know to talk loud and make noises and sing, and carry our buddy Bear Spray. When we sleep, we bookend an adult on each side of the tent and let the kiddos sleep in the center with bins by our heads. To be honest, I often don’t sleep-well. And I often think about how much flights will be for our next trip into a beach destination and envision myself unpacking once and the smells of clean sheets. So….

This is a vacation right?

There’s nothing like camping. There is no television or WiFi for that matter. But, there is NO boredom. Each child has a pocket knife, a real one. They often never sit unless they are carving their walking stick or debarking the sticks they find. We gather fire wood, we find insects so insanely weird I often wonder if possibly we just discovered them. We get scared from little noises or cracks we hear in the forest. We talk a lot. We change a little.

We push ourselves to hike past areas that look scary coming up to it and then often have some form of beautiful reward.
Like this gather of butterflies in front of a waterfall that would gather all together and then all fly away when we got near, later to find out it was on a pile of “you know what”-making this beautiful mess truly what it sounded like.

When we are in camping zone, our minds shift. I sometimes count the hours until we get to shower in a real shower-or at all. We brush our teeth together in the public bathrooms, we dodge the stalls with spiders and we hold it all night long, so we don’t have to make that walk in the dark to go.
If you’re lucky with outside of your body plumbing, you get to jump out the tent and find a tree.

We’ve experimented with out meals. We keep a seasoned skillet that tastes a bit like everything we’ve cooked on it. We’ve brought in food to cook. We’ve brought in backwoods survival REI dry foods. Kids have liked both. When you’re hungry it all tastes great. We eat healthier because the more natural the food the less you have to throw away. We often make bacon every morning and watch the fog, steam float into the trees.

(I often wonder if we’re just being idiots and sending bacon signals to a family of bear).

We use water bottles, and water backpacks, we have hiking shoes that can get wet and dry fast. We measure distance often by the minutes it takes us to walk. We lie and say we’re 5 minutes out every 5 minutes. We encourage each other, especially those with little legs that want to be held at the end of our hikes. We celebrate when we make it to our destinations. I’ve learned to put up a tent and set up “home” within less than an hour. We try to leave with less than what we came with. We donated our tarp to the midnight hikers, campers (who were college students taking on the trail), because it rained and they could use it a as a roof to eat under.

We’ve learned tricks, table clothes are important, bug spray is even more important, flip flops are sorta useless.

There’s nothing like it though.
Our kids will say they grew up camping, they can decide if they like it or not.
Sometimes I don’t even like it, then I love it again.

I once told my kids,
“When life is hard and you don’t know what to do or you need help making a decision,
just go out in nature.
Take a walk.
Just be still.
Get out into a forest.”
We were really made to wander.

For Your Higher Good

December 27, 2018 Dana Steinecker

What’s your excuse? No time, don’t know how? What’s your excuse for simply not meditating today? I’ve come up with every excuse in the book. Can’t find the right spot, can hear every sound other than silence, really want to finish one more episode a real housewives (insert bright eye emoji).

Anita Kimbler has been in tune with her higher self and energy surrounding her since the age of nine and offers her specialty to help those do the same. For Your Higher Good is a sacred space for meditation, psychic readings, energy healing and overall mental energy calming. Anita, with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology has completed extensive training to heal and calm the body with different energy methods and meditation.

For Your Higher Good is located in north Elmhurst at 381 N York Road, with a private studio space with meditation room, reading room, energy healing room and stress free parking. Anita offers personal readings in her private space, as well as packages for multiple people at your home. Wanting to dive deeper in your healing for 2019, Anita also offers energy healing sessions within her studio as well with channeled energy healing.

For Your Higher Good
www.ForYourHigherGood.com
Facebook:For Your Higher Good
Instagram: Anita Novello-Kimbler

anita@ForYourHigherGood.com
312-420-8969
381 N. York, Suite # 3, Elmhurst

Meet Anita and get in touch with your higher good ~

Anita is a psychic, medium, energy healer and spiritual educator.
Anita asks her guides to give her information to help you be the person you were sent here to be...the details unfold when you meet with Anita.

A bit more information from Anita ~

"Your" people, your family, friends, those who inspire you and keep you going:

My kids inspire and keep me going every day. They keep me real. I have a handful of amazing friends who accept me for who I am and allow me to be myself. There is nothing we cannot say. That is so powerful for me.

When did you start your business and why?

I started my business about 7 years ago because I was tired of hiding who I really was. I have done what "I do" my whole life, but giving it a name and opening the doors to the business made it real. I knew at that moment that I was truly fulfilling my life's purpose.

What was your inspiration to take the leap of faith or just go for it?

I knew who I was. I feel like I always have. My "guides" (spirit energies who give me my information) kept pushing me. I had blind faith in them. The overwhelming feeling of TRUST that I felt with them gave me the courage to jump. I jumped and NEVER EVER looked back. I TRUST my guides 111%. I never doubt, I never fear, I never question when it comes to my calling. I know they have my back.

What advice would you give moms or dads ~ who are starting their own company, or looking to change career paths or life paths?

If you feel your purpose calling your name, ANSWER! You were brought to this time and space for a reason. Believe in yourself (or fake it until you make it) and others will follow suit. Trust that good will find you. Know that you will never fail if you believe in you. I believe in you. This is your sign!!!

How do you start your day?

I start my day by saying, " I am grateful for the Divine Source in my life now". Then I go downstairs, drink 8oz of water, a cup of coffee, and the rest is up for grabs.

What is your favorite inspiring quote, by who?

Sooooo many. Not sure how to pick. But I think I have to pick one from a mentor (for today at least).

"The touch of hands, the sound of voices changes/rearranges energy.
This Enlightens, Uplifts, Encourages and Inspires.
This is part of your soul. Given, they increase.
Held back, they do nothing."

You can draw your own interpretation of this.

What would be your dream job, client, product?

I am doing my dream job. Every client allows me to do what I do. So every client is my dream client. I am very blessed and very grateful. My product is insight that can assist you to be the person you were sent here to be. No trademark needed. I encourage every person to use their given gifts. They are your power and strength...Your dream job. Everyone has one. Everyone

What is the biggest misconception from others about your work? What is the best outcome from your work?

The biggest misconception is that people think I read minds or that I know everything. I am not a god. I am a messenger. I can only say what is given to me. I can only heal what they show me to heal. I do not pick and choose. I follow their instructions (my guides).

What classes do you offer and when?

I offer psychic readings, medium readings, energy healing sessions, meditations, and classes to learn to use your gifts, and specialty classes as needed. You can see all the events on my website at: www.ForYourHigherGood.com

Can you give people a little advice how to align their energy, a tip to strive to do once a day or every morning?

When you wake up take a deep breath in and exhale hard...consciously releasing what no longer serves your highest good. Say an affirmation like, I am grateful now / I am enlightened now / I have purpose now / I am successful now / I am balanced now / I am abundant now / I am aligned now / I am a higher vibration now. Starting your day this way will put a positive twist on your entire day and uplift your outlook on the day.

For Your Higher Good
381 N York Road, Elmhurst, Illinois 60126
(312) 420-8969

Hours: By Appointment

Wisdom & Wellness

September 21, 2018 Dana Steinecker

Meet Tami Wollensak, health coach and health & wellness enthusiast, whom just like many of us, has made a career path through life changes to better herself, her health, her family and overall well being. I’m so blessed to be able to meet so many diverse individuals who have this inner flame that is contagious.

Tami is owner and Chief Wellness Officer of SimpleWisdom Wellbeing Sollutions. SimpleWisdom helps companies implement sustainable health, wellness, and lifestyle solutions with measurable cultural and financial results. A company helping companies! Helping corporations maintain health and wellness and seeking the best for their employees.

Tami also takes her training, skills, education and self practice to you - an individual - looking to improve your overall health and wellness, and live the best healthy life possible. Tami Wollensak Health and Wellness Coaching, concentrates on the individual, their health past, present and future, and implementing revisions in your life that can bring out the healthiest and best in you.

Tami practices what she preaches, and she also offers the ability to share her knowledge and experience without making you feel bad, or pushed, or like you missed the health and wellness boat. When we chatted over an anit-inflammatory green shake (which was delicious, and now I crave it in the morning), I explained to her my own health timeline and how I’ve fallen off the tracks over and over. She just said, “This is a marathon, so you just hop back on when you can and you do your best. Start over-you can start and restart!” Selfishly, this interview and blog question was extremely motivating and I’ve at least started drinking my green shake, and heading back to yoga Monday mornings. Little by little, just as Tami explains, you make these stepping stone changes that can effect the rest of your well being. I want to thank Tami, for our meeting and sharing with me insight on health and wellness. I can only imagine how much incredible and useful information Tami would supply during a health coaching session! I cannot wait!

Juicing Tips: Tami has a Hurom juicer, and highly recommends it! If you are new to juicing a great starter juicer is Breville — Juicing Tips: Tami has a Hurom juicer, and highly recommends it!
If you are new to juicing a great starter juicer is Breville

| Here’s more healthy information about Tami |

SimpleWisdom Wellbeing Solutions
www.thesimplewisdom.com (corporate coaching)
www.tamiwollensak.com (private coaching)
to launch Oct 1st

Tell us about yourself | your path | and how you got to today:

I was in the corporate financial arena for 20+ years. I decided to leave a successful career in corporate sales and management to pursue my passion and desire to help others with their journey to wellness and living their best lives. My entire adult life I was consumed by my quest to discover the solution to my own personal health issues. I suffered mostly from chronic illnesses which were caused from living an unbalanced and stress based life.

This journey to find wellness led me to the Institute of Integrative Nutrition where I received my certification as a health and nutrition coach and I also studied health coaching at the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy to further my expertise. I am a health coach, speaker, educator and motivator.
My mantra is health is wealth, and self-care is the new healthcare. My passion now is teaching others that wellness does not have to be confusing, difficult or boring to be effective.

I am proudly the mother of two fabulous boys, I have two rescue dogs, and I enjoy reading, watching film documentaries, listening to podcasts, watching movies, cooking, yoga, and practicing meditation.

"Your" people, your family, friends, those who inspire you and keep you going:

I have a group of girlfriends that I can always count on if the world seems dark and lonely and for inspiring messages. I have lots of health and wellness warriors all around me that I went to coaching school with and have continued to be close to and collaborate with.

My children keep me grounded and focused and I have learned that “I am not so cool and a little annoying about health”.

My former husband (yes believe it or not) is one of my biggest supporters and cheerleaders for my mission and always steps in to help when he can.

I have a passion for learning and I am inspired by those that have the same passion of teaching others that a life of happiness and vitality does not have to be confusing or difficult. My business partner Gregg Roberts keeps me grounded and reminds me that we are here for a purpose and we can change the landscape of chronic illness one person at a time and in large groups with corporate wellness. People that inspire me are Lewis Howes, Joel Osteen, Gabby Bernstein, Tony Robbins, Dr. Mark Hyman, JJ Virgin and Mel Robbins.
(Power in numbers with this awesome list Tami!)

When did you start your business and why?

I started my private coaching business in 2016. I felt that after healing my own issues that there were others that would benefit from the information. As I coached others and saw success I felt that I wanted to help more people on a larger scale.

We launched SimpleWisdom in January 2018.

What was your inspiration to take the leap of faith or just go for it?

I felt I wasn’t getting any younger (I know cliché) and didn’t want to live with regrets. My occupation at the time was physically making me ill with stress and I knew that there was another world that I was missing out on.

What advice would you give moms or dads ~ who are starting their own company, or looking to change career paths or life paths?
Embrace the fear and do it anyways, you can do whatever you set your mind on. Consistency is key. Break off small chunks and complete small thing every day. Small things turn into big things.

In life we have chapters, what would this chapter be titled? In a brief overview, where have you come from and where are you heading?

Redhead 2.0

I lived the first ½ of my life doing what I felt was the mold of what society looked at as success and fulfillment. My focus was out of alignment with my authentic self. I had an epiphany that it was not what made this redhead happy and fulfilled. I want to live my life by striving to be always in service of others, always look to be kind and build a community of people and support that I can be proud to call my tribe.

How do you start your day?
Before I put my feet on the ground I do a 20 minute meditation. It grounds me for the day. I then write in my gratitude journal and try to focus on the things in my life that I am most grateful for. The mornings are my most productive times. I then get in a workout, yoga, cardio or strength training. Get kids to school, shower and then my meetings usually start.

“The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest his patient in the care of the human frame, in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease.”

— Thomas Edison 1903.

Facebook: @thesimplewisdom
Instagram @thesimplewisdom
Tami Wollensak, 708-359-2070,
email: tamiw@thesimplewisdom.com

The Simple Wisdom | 486 S. Spring Rd. | Elmhurst, IL 60126

Credits:
Makeup professional done by: Jen O’Leary Make By Jen

Lounging in Beauty

August 10, 2018 Dana Steinecker

Getting that extra attention to detail is exactly what Jennifer Veremis, from Elmhurst's The Beauty Lounge, has accomplished in her beauty service salon. This quaint shop is more than a salon, rather a community driven business with heart. This amazingly clean and crisp setting is a perfect spot to relax, unwind and get an organic foot scrub with your pedicure. The Beauty Lounge offers impressive nail services, including a complimentary aroma therapy with your service of choice. Also clients can schedule waxing services at the Beauty Lounge wax bar, as well as professional makeup services.

Jennifer built her business with heart, and a little help with her loving furry buddies who have been with her since she opened the salon. Jennifer's pup was such a sweet pup, and felt right at home on his visit to the salon. Clients had seen Hugo since he had been a puppy.

Jennifer's team is also more like sisters than co workers. They were laughing and asking for shoe advice while we prepared for our shoot. Giving each other supportive words and helping with those little touches. Creating a supportive and loving working atmosphere is so important, and Jennifer has accomplished that and it shows.

The Beauty Lounge Inc.
118 S. York Rd. suite 105
Elmhurst, Illinois 60126

630-530-6929

https://www.facebook.com/beautyloungeinc/
https://www.instagram.com/jenvee78/

Tell us a bit about you:

My name is Jennifer Veremis. I have lived in Elmhurst for over 20 yrs . I am married with one fur baby Hugo, my Golden Retriever. I have been a licensed nail technician and salon owner for over 15 years. The Beauty Lounge specializes in natural nail care and premium, unique hand and body products.

In 2008 I trained in LA with celebrity manicurist Jessica Vartoughian. That was life changing! I became a certified JESSICA NAIL CULTIVIST. JESSICA professionals are considered the best in the business. The JESSICA natural nail care system have been favored by A- List celebrities for decades.

The Beauty Lounge and myself have earned a reputation with clients coming from all over the Chicagoland area. We have also been recognized and featured several times in NAILS, a popular industry magazine. Read our feature in NAILS magazine here.

One of my passions is supporting our veterans and troops. I have been a volunteer at the USO for several years now.

"Your" people, your family, friends, those who inspire you and keep you going:

My husband Joe, 100%. He always supports me no matter what. My dad who encouraged me from day #1. My aunt, a very successful business women, who has helped with just about everything! My long time friend/client, Mary Pat. She has been my mentor since I was 24. Her guidance has been invaluable to me.
Natalia, Monika and Jen! These ladies are truly the best. They have brought so much good energy to my life, sometimes I pinch myself. We share the same vision for The Beauty Lounge, plus we laugh all day long!

Last but not least my mom. She puts a whole new twist on "family business"! She has done everything and anything to help me start and grow my business. She has motivated and encouraged me from day one. Most importantly, she taught me to never give up.

When did you start your business and why?

I started my business at 24 yrs old. I won’t lie, I wanted to do it my way! When you work at a salon, you don’t have much, if any input in services products or client experience. I wanted a boutique salon that would provide the best of the best and build a team where their ideas would matter!

What was your inspiration to take the leap of faith or just go for it?

I come from a long line of entrepreneurs . So I always knew owning a business was in my cards. My first nail business started when I was 18 in my mother’s kitchen. I walked to the local printer to have menus, letterhead (yes, letterhead) and cards made. I did this through my first year of college. When my mother was diagnosed with cancer I took a break from school to be her caregiver. After a few long years of this it became harder and harder to get back to school. My dad encouraged me to start a nail business. As I never stopped working in the industry. He guided me and helped me with a business plan & some start up costs. but said the rest was up to me! Ill never forget, one week before I opened, I needed a hot towel warmer. I didn’t have any money left in my budget so I cashed in all my change to buy one. When I look back now from where I started to what we have now, that story always makes me smile.

To this day, I work very hard on the budget, just in case the hot towel warmer breaks.

What advice would you give moms or dads ~ who are starting their own company, or looking to change career paths or life paths?

I won’t sugar coat this…being a business owner is not a job it's a lifestyle. Be prepared to work like your never worked before! Get a really good accountant, learn to love yoga, and have a cocktail when all else fails!
But all jokes aside, do a business plan!
There’s a big difference between a hobby and a business.

If you are thinking of starting a business you’re already taken the first step!

How do you start your day?

Every Sunday I sit down with my day planner (yup, paper and pen) I list everything I need to do that week for personal and salon.
I also include a few goals that I’d like to work on.

Right now, it’s going to bed early.

The rest of the week I’m up early. I make the bed, drink warm lemon water, check/send emails, texts, go over my weekly/daily “to do list” that I created on Sunday.

COFFEE ,COFFEE ,COFFEE ,walk Hugo.
Pilates or yoga.
Get showered and ready to work at the salon or check things off the list!

What would be your dream job, client, product?

After working with women for over 20 years, I’ve heard just about everything! There is not a subject we haven't talked about. As women we put so much pressure on ourselves.

Through my clients I've learned a lot about life and myself. So, I'd love to start writing. Maybe a book about my personal growth, part funny with salon stories, yet motivating and inspirational to women.

“Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars”

— Unknown

Credits:
Jennifer Fender, featured on the blog earlier this summer, again did an amazing professional makeup application for The Beauty Lounge team photo shoot.
To polish the look, Lia Panariello, from Styled By Lia, did a professional blow out and style for The Beauty Lounge team.

More Than The R + F

August 10, 2018 Dana Steinecker

Michelle, a single mom, has been able to step away from a hectic and successful corporate job, into branding her own business, and leading other women to do the same.

#Girl Power.

Along the way, her daughter Brooke, not only is being inspired by Mama Bear, but also able to support her and be a part of the pathway.

Another incredible meeting with a motivated mama, running her own business, from home. Creating this blog and having the opportunity to meet women, and men, and children who have taken on their own dream and made it work--I mean really work--has been so incredible.

I had the opportunity to attend Michelle Shoemaker's Rodan + Fields team meeting, and meet her team members. Upon arriving I could hear all their children playing in the basement and having their own meeting of fun. I did my best not to interrupt but ladies, this is a game changer.

Michelle, so driven in her business, has declared a new way of "working". The conference room has changed. Set up in her own dining room with motivational pieces surrounding the team, and motivational words and training provided by Michelle. Women are hungry to find a way to run a successful, and meaningful business, and not give up precious time with their children. Rodan + Fields is a way of earning financial freedom, time freedom, and leadership ~ more than just a skincare product. It is a new age career path. It allows women and men to - really- do it all.

Meet Michelle, and read more about how she decided to take her leap of faith
and become her own boss.
Rodan + Fields Premium Skincare
Website: www.mshoemaker6.myrandf.com
Facebook/Instagram URL:
michelle.s.shoemaker.9
@mshoemakerrandf

Contact Info:
Michelle Shoemaker
shoemakersix@gmail.com
Client Locations: United States, Canada and Australia

A "reformed corporate road warrior turned work from home mom and business owner".
(That is my new self given title. ~ Michelle)

Tell us about yourself, your path and how you got to today.

After 25 years working in the Corporate Fashion Industry, life as I knew it changed and truth is it's a change I really had no idea I needed. Going from suburban wife and mom working 60 plus hours a week, living that perfect life that looks great on the social media highlight reel, to a single mom, working part time hours, from home, on my own time and own terms, may seem like quite an adjustment to some. But to me, it was exactly what the doctor ordered. I have never been happier.

Now, I am a more present mom to my 4 kids and it's the best thing for all of us. Gone are the days of saying I can’t go, mom has to work. Or I have to miss your game, moms flight gets in too late. Now I am less tired, I take my youngest to school, then I hit my favorite workout to kick start my day. The day is mine. I choose how I spend my time building my business and helping my amazing team do the same. When 3:00 hits, I become my kids Uber driver, and whip cracker to convince them their homework really does matter for their life.

As I entered this decade, one so many people dread, I fully embraced it and was ready to show myself and the world that 50 is just a number. I am a calmer, more centered, more accepting and kinder version of the old me who is focused on how I can take my experiences and serve as many women as possible as they give their life that ‘re-boot” that they too may be looking for. I keep learning over and over, so many women don’t even know they are looking for it until it falls right in their lap.

Who are "Your" people, your family, friends, those who inspire you and keep you going:

Hands down, Women who empower women. There is nothing more inspiring to me than seeing other women get out of their comfort zone, do something they were convinced they couldn’t do and gain a confidence they didn’t even know they had.

Many corporate work environments are about being better than the other person, getting noticed by the big bosses and often backstabbing to get ahead. If that's all someone knows it's hard to understand there is another and more productive way to “work” and, to still provide for your family. Having found a culture of women that focuses on every one succeeding was a bonus of this business, that I had no idea was coming. I am inspired every single day to pay it forward. Being a part of a culture with no glass ceilings motivates me daily to keep going and to keep making a positive difference in the lives of others. We work virtually. Women of all backgrounds, a broad age range and we all have one thing in common. We saw this vision, decided to get uncomfortable and go for it. I am focused on helping us all see the good in others and in situations, and to eliminate negative, "woe is me" from our lives.

I am blessed to have a large supportive work tribe, but also a friend tribe that helps fuel my soul. I have learned to really laugh, have fun and experience real joy. My soul is the healthiest it has ever been thanks to my business and the people now in my life. The more stories of women who work hard, persevere and achieve great success the more driven and inspired I become.

When did you start your business and why?
I started my Rodan + Fields business in April of 2016. I was still working my full time job, I was newly separated from my husband and thought a 2nd income certainly couldn’t hurt. Being fully transparent I didn’t view this as a new career or replacement for my job. It was meant to be side money. I literally thought “if they can do it, I can do it, how hard can this be.” But then, only 2 weeks in, the lightbulb went off. I saw the big picture and the vision of what this business would do for me and my kids lives. Being a pretty fast study, I know a smart, well run businesses when I see one. I knew this was the jackpot. But nothing is an accident. I fully believe the Universe gives us exactly what we are supposed to have. I joke and say I sometimes have to be hit over the head to see the signs right in front of me, and that's exactly how my business began. After 8 months of ignoring the signs to listen and learn, and even longer ignoring the signs of marital and job problems, the Universe finally said wake up, we are making a change! It all fell right into place, right when I needed it. With my business I can work from anywhere I choose, whenever I choose, and I am home with my kids for the first time since becoming a mom, and will make an income that far surpasses any corporate income I could have ever dreamed of achieving in the corporate world. I was able to hit a big milestone last summer while traveling to Spain for a soccer tournament with my son. I would say thats the perfect example of “work from anywhere” when you run an all virtual business. When you grow up in my generation you think there is one way to work…..you go to college, you get that job, get married, have kids, work until retirement age and hope and pray you have enough money to be happy for the rest of your life. I feel blessed daily that this business and team of women found me and that I can work on my terms and build something fully willable to my 4 kids.

Why Rodan + Fields? Give us the scoop on why women and men love this business model so much?
This brand was a no brainer for me. The doctors are the creators of the multi billion dollar brand Proactiv, which treats the world for acne. Rodan + Fields is brand #2 for them and only 10 years old. The vision of our doctors is to bring dermatology into the home, with a virtual platform instead of waiting to see a doctor for basic skin concerns. Their second vision is to empower women to find a way to work on their own terms and not have to sacrifice other areas of their life. They believe women can “have it all” and they chose direct sales as the way they wanted to build their 2nd billion dollar brand. They wanted it in the hands of people, just like me. To pay women, not a department store, for marketing, using and sharing the greatness of their brand.

Luckily, I understood the direct sales business model having come from the world of retail. I knew first hand what was happening with consumers now shopping online and frequenting malls was a rarity. Consumers want fast and great service, all from their phones. I knew this decision for them to go social commerce and fully virtual was brilliant. Most people don’t even know that we started in department stores. In fact we were the #1 skincare line in Nordstrom.So key to me was this: We are a skincare brand FIRST. A skincare brand that chose the direct sales business model because of how consumers now shop. We are NOT a direct sales company that chose any old product to sell. That right there is critical to understand and quite frankly why we are not like any old direct sales company. Plus, friends ask friends for referrals constantly. Social media is the #1 place women go to ask for referrals for almost anything: the best restaurants in a vacation destination, the best preschool in town or who is your go to hair stylist. I have seen posts asking for your favorite moisturizer! Friends love referrals from trusted friends, and quite honestly even from strangers. How many people read Amazon reviews before making a buying decision? For Rodan + Fields our customers don’t have to do a thing. We do it all for them. We are trained on what products are right for each persons concerns and needs, if we don’t know an answer we have access to get the answer. We place the orders and our customers get product right to their door within a few days. And a common misconception is “autoship.” We don’t work that way. If you want something, we order it for you. You aren’t ready for more? No problem. We wait and order when you are ready. Everything we do is about the customer being happy, getting results and having a seemless experience.

For any of us running a real business, the end game is freedom. Both financial and time. It’s real, it exists and its not even close to a scheme or scam or words that are sometimes used by those that don’t fully understand what we do. It’s work. Effort is needed, but what in life can you get without working for it? This is the most rewarding work I have ever done. Serving people is a gift and I am grateful daily for those that trust me to do just that.

What is your favorite product or can you not choose just one?

Of course I love it all! But I owe my love of R+F to the Redefine Regimen, the AMP MD roller, and Renewing Serum. This was my entry into the brand at 45 years old and the truth is I bought this product on a whim after a well meaning salesperson at Nordstrom asked if I was shopping for my granddaughter. Thats how tired and overworked I was and how bad of shape my skin was in in my mid 40’s. Using these products transformed my wrinkled, dry, not so firm skin. It took time, yes. Nothing, not even a diet, works overnight. After using this product I was asked regularly by friends and family if I had done botox. When the answer was no everyone wanted to know what the heck I had done and what was I using. I am proud to say I haven’t been called anyones grandma in years, my skin looks healthier now at 50 than it did at 45, and I am living proof that our products work. I use additional products now too, including reverse that fully got ride of my 1980’s sun damage. And of course I have lashes for the first time ever thanks to the ever popular Lash Boost. Our products work because they are dermatological, are just below prescription grade, they are a multi-med therapy formulation and they are #1 in all of North America. Once someone sees their own results they always wish they would have started sooner. I have a lot of happy customers and so does the brand.

What was your inspiration to take the leap of faith or just go for it?

It's not a profound answer. The truth is I did it for a way to make a side income after my marriage fell apart. I am a worker and I am solution driven. I have never been one to sit back and not take action. So it made sense to me to be forward thinking. Little did I know that after 2 weeks of a little bit of “self-teaching” I would decide that this was the exact thing I wanted to do, as my one and only career. I would be able to stay home with my kids, decompress and change my life in ways I could have never imagined a few years ago. Contrary to popular belief, I did not and do not have some strange passion for skincare. But I do have a passion for living my life on my own terms, for being my own boss. This is possibly the most brilliant decision I ever made. I have a passion for helping as many women as I can to realize their full potential and to go after their dreams. When a new person wants to talk, learn and eventually start their own business I am truly giddy. Not for me….but for them. When I see women killing it and growing and becoming the best version of themselves I have a lot of goosebump moments. Pretty sure my teammates would say this is true. I can become a little sappy over their success! Somewhere along the path to adulthood, most women give up those childhood dreams. If I in any way can play a role in someone regaining their dreams and go after them, then I know I am serving the greater good.

What advice would you give moms or dads ~ who are starting their own company, or looking to change career paths or life paths?

Just Start.
Stop thinking about it. Stop talking yourself out of it. JUST DO IT! If there is even one tiny part of your gut that says change is needed, follow that gut. Our minds have a crazy way of telling us all the things we can’t do and all the reasons why something won’t work. Don’t listen to negative self talk. And for goodness sake, don’t listen to the negative noise from others. There are plenty of people in everyones life to tell you why something won’t work or why its a bad idea. That is their issue. Not yours.Those are not your people. Listen to your gut, listen to the Universe and be open to receive what is coming your way. Change is good and it advances us to the place in life we are meant to be. I am grateful daily for the changes that I didn’t think I wanted at the time. They have changed the lives of my family for the better. You are meant to live a life following your own dreams, not helping someone else achieve theirs.

How do you start your day?
I’m an early riser. Up before my kids drinking LOTS of coffee and I get some early morning work done while the house is quiet. Once the kids are off to school,I am wide awake, and I hit my workout at Orange Theory Fitness. Some of my most creative thinking comes from the energy of the studio, the loud music and the inspirational coaches. I need to be surrounded by positive energy and this is how I make sure my day starts off right. That energy keeps me strong all day.

What is your favorite inspiring quote, by who? So many choices! Brene Brown, Jack Canfield, Mel Robbins, Rachel Hollis, Simon Sinek, Rory Vaden, Tony Robbins, ....you name it!

I have to choose Brene’ Brown given she was the first person I was turned on to during lifes changes and I have followed her ever since. My goal is to be authentic, real and open to attract others to me and what I have to offer to keep paying it forward. I love this, and many, many more of her amazing words.

“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.””

What would be your dream job, client, product? My dream job involves empowering and serving other women and helping them grow into who they are meant to be.. Teaching, coaching, inspiring, and motivating them to be the best version of themselves. I am fortunate to be doing just that, but it doesn’t stop here. I know this business was brought to me to be the financial vehicle that will enable me to serve my real purpose. The future has so much in store. My blog is a work in progress, I intend to write a book and create my 2nd business focusing on helping women who need or want to transition careers, start over, or just plain start! So many need this re-boot! This is just the beginning. There is so much more ahead, so many people to inspire and serve and I am grateful that my business model provides the financial and time resource to do just that. Starting over in your late 40’s isn’t so bad after all.

Clean Eats

July 17, 2018 Dana Steinecker

The universe works in our favor, when you ask for it.
Oddly enough I was just thinking about hiring someone that could not only help me meal plan for healthier and family oriented meals, but someone who could just meet with me to show me tips to make those meals actually taste good. I met her!

Meet Crystal Echavarria, of Culinary Confidante, a mother of two little ones, wife, a nutritionist, personal trainer, and certified chef of delicious foods. I had the pleasure of meeting Crystal at a Fit 4 Mom event in Elmhurst. Her passion for nutrition and fitness are modeled through her every day life. She meal plans, she exercises, she tends to little boo boo's on Ari's knees ~ she moms. Crystal also has a green thumb and grows an impressive amount of ingredients in their backyard. Teaching her little ones how to find that perfect cucumber and also how to patiently wait for those just ripe tomatoes.

So here's the scoop, Crystal comes to you! She will come out to your home and develop meals and cooking techniques just for you. No other program allows the cooking experience to be so personal. I love the idea of having a girls night in and having Crystal come over and not only teach us a few tricks up our sleeves on delicious meals, but literally showcase how to cook specific ingredients and how to utilize your own space and utensils to create the masterpiece.

Get to know Crystal and Culinary Confidante
Cooking techniques throughout the Chicagoland area including the city of Chicago
www.culinaryconfidante.com
Check out Culinary Confidante on Facebook
Culinary Confidante Instagram
Twitter Link
Culinary Confidante LinkedIn

Who are "Your" people, your family, friends, those who inspire you and keep you going

*"Things continue to come together day by day and I've never been happier."*

Something about everyone inspires me for different reasons. My husband Jason is such a positive happy person. His smiles are contagious and his outlook on life has definitely influenced the way that I see things. My children keep me focused on the future. I want them to be able to look back and see that their mom created something out of nothing. I hope that seeing that will really make them believe that they can do whatever they set their minds to. As for others, I try to take the qualities that I most admire about people and apply them to myself. How can I add their influence in my life for the better? I try to find motivation in everything I do. I have always been an extremely driven person. I like to keep busy and I like to succeed. I never thought I would start my own business, but I was born to do it.

What was your inspiration to take the leap of faith or just go for it?

This business has been a long time coming for me. I started coaching people when I was in college.
(Before that it was just called bossing people around lol).

I did some personal training and I also did some culinary coaching, before that was really even a thing. I really started to think about forming an official business after having my daughter.
It was important to me to stay home with my kids while they were little. However, I quickly discovered how hard it was for me. I missed getting up early and having somewhere to be. I missed the adult interaction and having coworkers to joke with. I missed having a quiet lunch by myself. I missed the feeling of accomplishment when I completed a project and the praise that I received when it was well done. I knew I needed more. I needed something for myself.

I looked for jobs but wasn't really sure how I would balance staying home and working at the same time. When would I sleep? Also, I wasn't really finding jobs that were interesting to me. I had a unique background (apparently): nutrition, culinary and fitness. Those things together made perfect sense to me, but no one else appeared to need someone with that combination of qualifications. So, I decided to capitalize on that and create something that no one else was doing, because I knew there was a need for it.

I opted to wait to start the business when I decided to have another baby, but I didn't wait long. When my son was a few months old I started the research and paperwork and by the time he was six months old I had officially formed a corporation in Illinois. That was in May of 2017. Since then I've put together my website, designed a logo, and created a business structure.
Things continue to come together day by day and I've never been happier.

What advice would you give moms or dads ~ who are starting their own company, or looking to change career paths or life paths?
Don't wait! Every day that goes by is one day wasted, or one day accomplished. Research whatever it is that you want to do and figure out a way to make it happen. Plan your steps, put things on the calendar, make phone calls and send emails. Just get the ball rolling and go from there. Things will fall together and if they don't then you can always stop. It's better to try than to wonder what if.

How do you start your day?
I get up at 5:00am (earlier than I used to get up for work actually) to shower and get ready for my day. Then, I make a cup of coffee or tea and work on business stuff, whether it's emails, the website, or social media. I try to do something every day for the business. If I'm lucky they sleep in and then I really get a lot done!

“Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.”

— Chinese Proverb

What would be your dream job?
My dream job would be to create a business structure that is successful enough for me to hire additional chefs to work under me and to potentially expand Culinary Confidante into other cities as a franchise. Eventually then I can pass the business on to my children or sell it. Okay, so that's actually my goal, but it's a pretty lofty goal so I'll say it counts as a dream too. :)
(Crystal...you just put that out into the universe, it will and can happen girl!)

Contact Info:

www.culinaryconfidante.com
crystal@culinaryconfidante.com
phone: 847.579.9613

Get Rid Of The Box

June 28, 2018 Dana Steinecker

"Think outside the box" or you can just get rid of the box all together!

Meet Donna Piacenza, creative wonder woman who produces one of a kind functional pieces for home decor, fashion, and beyond.
Her pieces have been produced and sold through companies such as CB2, as well as through her own brand name.
See more of her inspiring work at www.donnapiacenza.com

When I wanted to start this "work love balance" project, Donna was actually one of the first working mamas I thought of. Her peaceful demeanor does not give away the incredible amount of creativity and engineering power that inhabits her. When we get together, it never fails, we sit and talk about creative projects we could take on. She is the most encouraging person. Encouragement is powerful. I truly love that about her. I'm sure more creatives do too, because you get that "there's someone out there like me" feeling.

Donna, married to Mike, and Mom to Edie and Alma ~ two beautiful little girls, with the same creativity power. Donna's Dad owns a machine shop in Illinois giving her the experience of operating equipment. This is a one up amongst the boys when you enter any 3D shop class in college!

I had the pleasure to work with Edie during our shoot, the winner of an incredible award from PlayMonster. She created and will soon be producing her very own board game! And instead of boasting or bragging about her big win, she danced around with her giant check she was awarded and made the most perfect kid faces. Then I got a sneak peek of her dessert sushi she was preparing for her family for after dinner. Creativity flows through this household.
Hey Edie... I will be over to taste test the sushi!

Here's a bit more about Donna, you might see her out running with Elmhurst Running Club or testing out new concepts in the Elmhurst Public Library Makery.

"Your" people, your family, friends, those who inspire you and keep you going:
I like to hang out with people that are not usual.
Creative people, and I believe everyone is creative, inspire me when they look at the world with a unique perspective. Whether it's through photography, sculpture, fashion, metal work, painting, etc., I'm inspired by those who put a new spin on any project.

Donna Piacanza — Just Start Somewhere...

Donna's advice to those entrepreneurs who might be waiting for that perfect time to start. Donna is pictured in the Makery in the Elmhurst Public Library, offering career and technical machinery, printers and more for the most creative minds to be set free in!

When did you start your business and why?
I started my business about 3 years ago. I love the flexibility to work on my schedule. It helps me fit in time with my family, while still being productive in my own career. This way, I get to pursue the clients I want and explore new directions in my career path.

What advice would you give moms or dads ~ who are starting their own company, or looking to change career paths or life paths?
Just start somewhere!
I critique every one of my own projects endlessly but I'd have nothing to show for myself if I didn't put work out there.

What type of training did you do to master 3D design work? education or hands on?
I went to school for Industrial Design and always loved hand-making prototypes.
Intuitively *listening* to where forms, materials and surfaces want to go in space, really informed, and continues to define, my aesthetic.
Quick, paper mock-ups are my favorite.

How do you start your day?
I try to exercise in some way every morning. I'll run, bike, swim or practice yoga - as long as I'm there with friends, it keeps it fun and puts me in the right mental state for the day.
There's also coffee.

What would be your dream client to work with on a project?
I like to work with anyone who is eager to try something difficult-a new material or process or even better an old one in a new way. I really admire designers that push materials, manufacturing and concept like Hella Jongerius, Patricia Urquiola and Ray Eames. And creatives like you, Dana, that produce, produce, produce!
(Thanks Donna, I think we're cut from the same cloth ~ onto our next project at all times!)

“The details are not the details. They make the design.”

— Charles Eames

Donna Piacenza Creative
www.donnapiacenza.com

Tidy Home, Tidy Mind

June 20, 2018 Dana Steinecker

Jeaneen Sica Declutter and Design
Call To Get Organized : (630) 302-2546
Check out Jeaneen's latest projects at:
Jeaneen Sica Declutter & Design Facebook

Jeaneen! To know her is to love her.
But, I have to say, I love her more, because she found so many gift cards while organizing my office! (Sad, but true.) I'm also totally embarrassed to say, that I have an interior design degree, but I cannot get the grips on organizing my own home. People compliment me on the tidiness of my home, and I immediately tell them "It's Jeaneen, I'll send you her info, but she changed my life!"

I get overwhelmed with throwing away the sentimental items, and organizing the toys (oh man the TOYS) ~ and also just making a space work. But, Jeaneen comes in for the consult and has the vision, and within hours rooms are beautifully transformed. She has helped me organize two homes now, moving furniture, making purchases for design and for organizing, pushing me to use "keep/throw out/donate" boxes. She does all the work, and I come home, just like on HGTV, to the big reveal! Never disappointed.

Most recently she organized and decorated our youngest son's room. It was a mis-mash of toys, clothes, keepsakes...paperwork from every appliance in our home?!?! We talked about the vision for the room, and she told me to leave. By the time I picked the kiddos up from school at 3PM, my Jack had a brand new space. Have you ever cleaned up a toy room or child's bedroom, and then they request to be in their room more, and play with their toys more...because they can find them! From closet, drawers, toys, decor on shelves and even wall art, she coordinated the room so well, and to his personality ~ my other kiddos are now asking "When is Miss Jeaneen doing my room".

Jeaneen Sica's Declutter and Design is one of those unique combination in services, that every busy mom (and dad) needs. Jeaneen's vision for the various spaces she works in are so purposeful and well designed, you honestly feel like you're leaving a showroom.

Here's a little bit more about Jeaneen Sica and her Declutter and Design business.

"In my life before kids, I was Chicago Public Schools high school English and Television Production teacher. I worked with inner city kids, teaching them that their voices and talents needed to be expressed and heard through writing and video. In 2011, I resigned from my amazing job to stay home with our three kiddos, Eddy, Joey, and Samantha, who were four years old, twenty months and a newborn at the time. It was not an easy decision to give up my career, but my husband and I knew that staying home with my children was the best choice for our family.

Fastforward to present day and I am the personal assistant to my three very active kiddos, driving carpool, making meals, watching sporting events, helping with homework and maintaining their "busier than mine" social calendar. In my spare time, I am also a writer, an organizer, an interior designer, an English tutor, a substitute teacher, an ambassador at the Dailey Method, an event planner, and a bargain shopping guru. Phew!

Jeaneen's three little ones, although Eddy is not so little any more!

Who are "your people", the ones that keep you going?

My "people" are my kids and my husband. They are my unit, my home base, my heart and soul. I also surround myself with my immediate and extended family and my friends. My parents have supported me my whole life and have always encouraged me to follow my dreams. My sister, cousins and friends are my soundboards, supplying me with advice, motivation, and support. My former students also hold a very special place in my heart. They helped mold me into the person I am today. I love seeing their successes on Facebook and Instagram. I am truly blessed to have so many wonderful people in my life!

When did you start your business and why?

Over the years, I helped many friends with organizing rooms in their homes. It was something I enjoyed and was pretty good at doing. I knew that tackling that cluttered playroom was an insurmountable feat for some, but for me, it was a space I couldn't wait to make functional, stylish, and organized. While some people dread the task of separating Legos and Barbies, I look forward to conquering the mess! I love a good before and after! I also love how different a space feels once it organized and balanced.

I started my own organizing and interior design business last summer. I truly just fell into the job. A friend, who I had helped in the past, recommended me to one of her friends. I decluttered and designed nine spaces in my first customers' home. From there, my business continued to grow because of referrals from friends and family.

Having my own business has given me the freedom I need to be the woman I want to be. I am able to work and still balance the busy schedules of my super active kids, write my book, take care of my household and continue my fitness regimen.
Not to mention, I love being my own boss.

"My dream job is to be a best selling author,and design and organize people's homes." — "My dream job is to be a best selling author,
and design and organize people's homes."

I started writing my book about five years ago. I had an idea for a romance novel and I just started, literally, putting pen to paper. I didn't have much time to actually sit and write, but tried to squeeze it in whenever I could. Once Samantha entered kindergarten, I had more free time and I was able to write more often. I am happy to say that I finished my book last week and am currently in the editing stage and exploring publishing options! Stay tuned!

What was your inspiration to take the leap of faith or just go for it?

I wanted to follow my passion for artistic creativity through home design. When I decorate a space, I am able to incorporate art, functionality, comfort and individuality. I started my own business because people saw my first spaces in person or on social media and were interested in hiring me to organize and/or design rooms in their homes. I thought, "Why not? It's a way to make money and do what I love." So here I am, ten months later with over 40 rooms organized and/or designed.

What advice would you give moms or dads ~ who are starting their own company, or looking to change career paths or life paths?

Go for it! You only live once and you should be passionate about the work you do. There are so many different avenues you can explore in an effort to fulfill your dreams. Social media has made creating your own brand possible. If you care about the service or product you supply and genuinely want to help others in some way, you will find success. Maybe you are an amazing photographer and you supply your customers with memories they will cherish for a lifetime. Maybe you are an amazing pastry chef and make desserts that will add the finishing touch to special events. Maybe you organize homes, giving your customers a piece of mind and a sense of calmness. Whatever your service or product is, as long as you come from a place of goodness, wonderful things will come your way.

How do you start your day?

I get up an hour before anyone else and take the dog for a long walk either on the Prairie Path or just around our neighborhood. This is my time to prepare for the day, drink my coffee and connect with nature.
(Coffee is definitely the theme!)

“Once you master the art of facing a room full of teenagers and come out alive, you can do anything!”

— -Chasing Pegasus (a play in ten chords)

A BIT ABOUT ANDERSON’S BOOKSHOP

Bread & Butter Home

Not all who wander are lost.

"The touch of hands, the sound of voices changes/rearranges energy. This Enlightens, Uplifts, Encourages and Inspires. This is part of your soul. Given, they increase. Held back, they do nothing."

Redhead 2.0

"The touch of hands, the sound of voices changes/rearranges energy.
This Enlightens, Uplifts, Encourages and Inspires.
This is part of your soul. Given, they increase.
Held back, they do nothing."