Spotlight On: Madeleine Shaw

Name of Business: Lunapads International Products Ltd.
Type of Business: Internet retailer specializing in natural feminine hygiene products
Web Site: Lunapads.com
Email: Madeleine@lunapads.com

Tell us more about your woman-owned business.

I created Lunapads and Lunapanties in 1993 in response to my own health concerns, and in the process discovered a wonderful new connection with my body. I was also dismayed to realize how incredibly wasteful disposable pads and tampons are, and decided that starting a business would be the best way to create the change I wanted to see, from both a personal and environmental perspective.

Why did you decide to start this type of business?

I created Lunapads and Lunapanties in 1993 in response to my own health concerns, and in the process discovered a wonderful new connection with my body. I was also dismayed to realize how incredibly wasteful disposable pads and tampons are, and decided that starting a business would be the best way to create the change I wanted to see, from both a personal and environmental perspective.

What makes your business unique?

Our products are definitely unusual, and we bring a remarkable personal touch to everything that we do, from product development to customer service. I think that any business that takes its inspiration from a social mission the way we do brings a unique quality of passion that goes far beyond the basic concerns of business.

Can you share with us the challenges that you have encountered related to starting a business?

We’ve been doing this for a while, so there have been several. It took me several years of working on my own before I realized that I didn’t have all the skills I needed to be able to grow the business the way I wanted to. Fortunately, I met my business partner Suzanne Siemens in 1999, which has made all the difference in the world. Not that it solved everything – our first major challenge was that we almost ran completely out of money in pursuit of our first business model.

How did you overcome these challenges?

With respect to almost losing the business in 2002, we overcame it by completely changing our business model. Instead of attending natural products trade shows and trying to get retailers and distributors as customers, we built a new website with a strong focus on e-commerce. Instead of taking out ads in mainstream health magazines, we switched to lower-cost niche feminist and natural parenting magazines. Both strategies enabled us to better communicate and make sales directly to consumers, with better margins to boot!

What has been your biggest success thus far?

As with the challenges, there have been a few biggies over the years. Back in 1999, we were able to secure financing from Renewal Partners, a progressive venture capital group, who are shareholders and advisors to this day. Purchasing our own office in 2007 was another big highlight. Recently, we hosted Mothering magazine’s Peggy O’Mara at a benefit for our Pads4Girls program, which provides sustainable menstrual supplies to schoolgirls in Africa.

What is your favorite free business resource?

Other entrepreneurs! We have an amazing network of likeminded colleagues who we can call on at any time. Chances are that they have had to face the issue at hand, or have contacts or ideas to share. We try to be as transparent as possible and make ourselves available in this way as well, so what goes around, comes around.

Can you share with us something that very few people know as it relates to your business?

Lunapads has a magical feeling to it, even after all these years. Something about the people, the products, the site, the office…it’s hard to express. Our business relationships are seldom just on that level, there is always another dimension to them, whether as friends or feeling connected energetically in some other way,

What words of advice would you provide to others who are considering starting a business?

Be smart about money – it will always be an issue. And choose what you do carefully – ask yourself how much it really means to you. I know that for me, having a strong mission is what has kept me going when times were really tough – there’s a larger motivation.

Do you have any special offers for those reading this interview?

Use promo code LUNA09 for $5 off orders over $35 until December 31, 2009.

Do you have a small business idea that you want to get "Up & Running?" Pink Heels has a variety of services and resources available for all stages of business development and sustainability. Check out all of your coaching and consulting options HERE and all of your e-book options HERE!

Would you like to be considered for an upcoming "Spotlight On" post? If you have a web site and a business Up & Running story, please email Jennifer Moore at Jennifer@Pink-Heels.com. You can be located anywhere in the world as we are creating a global network of fabulous women!

Random Picture From My Week

It's a bird! It's a plane! No! It's a Good Year blimp flying over my lake cottage.

Client Spotlight: Caren

Pink Heels Services: 3-Month Business Coaching & Consulting

What inspired you to start your small business?

My best friend had originally brought up the idea about two years ago. It sounded so exciting I got the itch. Since then, I've gone through a million business ideas, met so many amazing women entrepreneurs that I've never lost the inspiration to create my own business.

What were your primary goals when you started working with Pink Heels?

To get my thoughts and actions organized and carve a clear path for myself.

What goal are you most proud of that you accomplished thus far?

My website!! I love it. I"m also really impressed with the marketing knowledge I've acquired along the way. After 10+ years of marketing for other companies, its very different to create my own marketing plan.

What have you learned about yourself?

I need a lot of help keeping myself grounded and focused!

What is the name of your new small business that is Up & Running?

Digital Pink: Small business marketing, consulting, and training for women entrepreneurs
Web Site Url: www.digital-pink.com

Do you have any final thoughts that you would like to share with the world; especially any potential women entrepreneurs?

It's every bit as scary and time consuming as you suspect it will be, but its
totally worth it!

Do you have a small business idea that you want to get "Up & Running?" Pink Heels has a variety of services and resources available for all stages of business development and sustainability. Check out all of your coaching and consulting options HERE and all of your e-book options HERE!

You Rub Me The Wrong Way!

Today's random selection for the "Wreck this Journal" online bookclub was anti-climatic. I rubbed away on the side of a box that I bought while in China but, unfortunately, the outcome was less than superb. If I didn't have a house full of guests for the 4th of July, I would prefer to complete this task at the local cemetary...rubbing on gravestones! I bet that I could find some cool things tucked away.

Random Picture From My Week

As I was driving home on the curvy roads around the lake, I glanced over and witnessed a beautiful sunset over one of the many coves and bays. In less than 30 seconds, the sun had completely went down below the trees. I barely had enough time to grab my camera and snap this photo.

FAVORITE Yoga DVD

Without fail, every week, someone will ask me to provide a yoga dvd recommendation. While I am always happy to share my favorite yoga resources, I laugh at the idea of buying a dvd that offers the exact same sequence every time you watch it. Boring! I am not a fan of yoga dvds. I need more than the same repetitive voice telling me to transition into a pose that I can predict because I have completed the same dvd 10 times. So what are your options?

Welcome to the 21st century and the internet! Today, you can download a full yoga class with the click of your mouse for free or super cheap. My absolute favorite "go-to" place for fabulous online yoga classes is Yoga Today. They offer new classes every week, ranging from beginners to advanced, that can be downloaded onto your computer. The instuctors are amazing and the natural backdrop is gorgeous. I am NEVER bored. While this online program used to be free, they have recently switched to a $9.99/month fee system. (A good business decision.) However, several of their archived classes are still available for free on YouTube.

Even with my glowing recommendation, nothing beats going to an actual class. Unfortunately, we can't always make it. In these instances, Yoga Today fills the gap!

Spotlight On: Kara Sorensen, MS, LAc

Name of Business: The Food Craving Solution
Type of Business: Healthcare / Wellness
Web Site: http://thefoodcravingsolution.com
Email: kara@thefoodcravingsolution.com

Tell us more about your woman-owned business.

I help women resolve Food Cravings and put their habits of Overeating in the past. I use an Acupressure technique combined with focused verbal statements that is simple and highly effective. It gets to the root cause of habits and helps you let them go with ease. I am an Acupuncturist and Nutrition Consultant, yet these sessions can be done over the phone.

Why did you decide to start this type of business?

I knew I had a unique gift to share with the world and I simply could not keep this to myself. I was already practicing Acupuncture, but saw such great results with Acupressure that I had to share it.

What makes your business unique?

I help people change the root cause of their behavior in a way that is lasting. Results are most often felt in one sixty minute session. I help people make changes that they never thought were possible in their thinking/beliefs and then their behavior naturally changes.

Can you share with us the challenges that you have encountered related to starting a business?

There are several challenges. The biggest challenge has been funding, as I am a solopreneur without a trust fund and a lot of education behind me. The other challenges have been the disbelief regarding results and the challenge of reaching my prospective customers due to shame about their habits.

How did you overcome these challenges?

I'm still working on it! I made a video, which has proven to be a very cost effective marketing tool. This has helped people get a sense of me, and my conviction about my work and my results. The video has been the biggest jump forward in my ability to reach those in need of my work, and I highly recommend a video. Here's a link: http://thefoodcravingsolution.com/videos.html

What has been your biggest success thus far?

I always think of the results of my patients as my success. One of my recent successes has been a single session that helped someone stop their binge eating behavior and easily lose 25 pounds over the following few months. This person had tried many techniques without success, and was unable to stop eating once started, all the way through a large pizza.

What is your favorite free business resource? twitter

Can you share with us something that very few people know as it relates to your business?

My results are lasting. Once the root cause of the craving or overeating is resolved, the behavior is behind you. There is no need for repeating a session but many choose to work on related or other issues. Also, I thoroughly studied nutrition and that knowledge is with me during every session.

What words of advice would you provide to others who are considering starting a business?

1-Have a part time job or other source of income while you start your business. It will take time to see a profit.

2-Take time for self care. It's a long haul and avoiding burnout is key. You will expend more energy than you thought possible, replenish!

3- Trust your instincts about who can help you. There are many people out there that can help. My word of advice is to find someone that feels like a good fit for your personality. In other words, don't just focus on their skills, but how the working relationship might feel. Would you feel comfortable having them talk to one of your best clients?

4-Know that having a great service or product(s) does not always equal customers running to your door. It takes time, people are apprehensive at first. Just keep going, as word of mouth will take over, but it takes time.

Do you have a small business idea that you want to get "Up & Running?" Pink Heels has a variety of services and resources available for all stages of business development and sustainability. Check out all of your coaching and consulting options HERE and all of your e-book options HERE!

Would you like to be considered for an upcoming "Spotlight On" post? If you have a web site and a business Up & Running story, please email Jennifer Moore at Jennifer@Pink-Heels.com. You can be located anywhere in the world as we are creating a global network of fabulous women!

The Ugliest Drawing Ever

Have you ever created an ugly drawing...intentionally? This week's excerise in the "Wreck This Journal" bookclub, instructed me to do just that. Create something ugly. I used the finest dandelion leaves that I could collect before smearing it across the pages. I then used a pen to connect the chunks of leaves sticking to the page.

Dandelion Mayhem

Random Picture From My Week

I can't believe that I have strawberries. This is my first garden EVER. I absolutely love watching it grow and change. Everything tastes so much better when it is fresh.

Who Is Your Favorite Web Designer?

Every year I poll my previous and current clients to determine their favorite web designers that cater to small businesses; including their small business budget. This year, a few new designers have popped up along with many from last year's list that are definitely worth checking out:

Web Designers

eLance.com (International)
Designers from around the world bid on your project.

Lisa: Elle Eye Design (U.S.)
www.elleeye.com

Cara Marquis: Marquis Creative (U.S.)
www.marquiscreative.com

Sally Strand: Image Architect (U.S.)
www.imagitect.com

Gursimran Kaur (India)
http://www.gursimran.com/
gursimran@gmail.com

Sonya: Scooter Girl Designs (Australia)
http://www.scootergirldesigns.com.au

Kristi Trader (U.S.)
kristi.trader@comcast.net

Jen: Eco Office Gals (Wordpress Website Development Only) (U.S.)
http://eco-officegals.com/portfolio/
scaeadmin@gmail.com

Delicious Design Studio (U.S.)
http://deliciousdesignstudio.com/

Logo and Marketing Material Designers

Jen Hugon: Hugon Art & Design (U.S.)
http://hugonad.com/

Lisa Marie Loving (U.S.)
http://www.lisamarieloving.com/

Courtney Boatin: Outlet Graphic Design (U.S.)
courtney@ambs.info

Sonya: Scooter Girl Designs (Australia)
http://www.scootergirldesigns.com.au

Gursimran Kaur (India)
http://www.gursimran.com/
gursimran@gmail.com

Alex: Artini Bar Design Studio (U.S.)
http://artinibar.com/

Printing Companies

http://www.vistaprint.com/

http://uk.moo.com/en/

http://www.overnightprints.com

Do you have a favorite web designer, graphic designer, or printing company that wasn't listed? Let us know about them! Leave a comment with the designer's name, business, and url.

Client Spotlight: Ana

Age: 26

Pink Heels Services: 3-Month Business Coaching & Consulting

What inspired you to start your small business?

There were so many inspirations! The primary one was the desire to create work that was meaningful to me and matched my life values. Mentoring and coaching young women excites and drives me. I also wanted to create a lifestyle that centered on the activities that make me happy and that I thrived in (instead of those that drained my energy and clashed with my life values).

What were your primary goals when you started working with Pink Heels?

My primary goal was to have a female business coach hold me accountable for all the ideas and dreams I had for Creatuitive Coaching (and to help focus and hone those dreams!)

What goal are you most proud of that you accomplished?

I have to comment here that I have reached more personal and professional goals in the three months working with Pink Heels as an entrepreneur than in all my years combined in the working world! One of the big professional goals that comes to mind is my business plan. I knew the traditional (male) model for a business plan did not resonate with myself or for my business, and I dreaded writing one. Jennifer gave me the freedom to work creatively and the space to think about the bigger picture with my business plan - this enhanced and strengthened my vision for Creatuitive Coaching.

What have you learned about yourself?

I’ve learned that I can wake up every day and consciously create the life I want for myself. I’ve learned that I am my biggest champion. I’ve learned that coaching women to create more meaningful and authentic lives early (instead of waiting for a mid-life crisis to hit) is my passion.

What is the name of your new small business that is ‘Up & Running?’
Creatuitive Coaching

Do you have any final thoughts that you would like to share with the world; especially any potential women entrepreneurs?

Do it now! Take one small step today towards your dreams. Name what makes you happy, identify your passions, and recognize the activities that give you endless energy – and go do them. The more women we have in this world that are living their passions, the better!

Do you have a small business idea that you want to get "Up & Running?" Pink Heels has a variety of services and resources available for all stages of business development and sustainability. Check out all of your coaching and consulting options HERE and all of your e-book options HERE!

Open Call: Destroy My Journal!

This week as I randomly opened to a page in my copy of "Wreck This Journal," I gasped at the thought that I am being requested to allow others to participate in the destruction. Since this will be a two part project, I am posting the pre-destruction picture first. Once I have allowed others to leave their mark, I will post a follow-up picture. Hopefully, no one will steal my journal.

Random Picture From My Week

Do you remember my summer list of fun? While I officially completed one of the items, #4 to be exact. My painting has wrapped up.

This painting was inspired by my experience participating in Nicole Graham's monthly full moon meditation circle. This was my first attempt at acrylic paints as my fortay tends to be in charcoal, pencil, and watercolors. It was definitely challenging to work with a medium that is so forgiving and does not require perfection on the first stroke.

Since this painting has no home, I am going to sand it down at the end of summer and begin with a new painting. I like the idea that it will have secret layers.

I now present to you the unveiling of, "Triple Goddess."

To Save The World...or Savor It

If the world were merely seductive, that would be easy.
If it were merely challenging, that would be no problem.

But I arise in the morning torn between a desire to improve (or save) the world and a desire to enjoy (or savor) the world. This makes it hard to plan the day.

~ E.B. White

Spotlight On: Rachel Franco

Name of Business: JaLa Designs, LLC
Type of Business: Jewelry
Web Site: http://www.jala-designs.com/
Email: rachel@jala-designs.com

Tell us more about your woman-owned business.

JaLa Designs, LLC (pronounced Jay-La) is a unique, handcrafted jewelry line whose "secret ingredient", I like to say, is its use of beautiful designer silk and tapestry fabrics. Combine these beautiful fabrics with antique brass chain and semi-precious stones and you have necklaces and earrings that are a combination of elegant beauty, sophisticated chic, works of art and fashionable edge.

Why did you decide to start this type of business?

I don't know that I can say that it was completely planned! As I was growing more and more unhappy with my job in marketing, I was feeling like I wanted to do something more creative. Thus, when I was downsized from my marketing position in summer 2008, I had the opening and the space to really think about my next step.

A few weeks after losing my job, I was over at a family friend’s house getting some career advice. While there, I noticed this beautiful fabric-covered bowl and I thought to myself, "Wow. Wouldn't something covered in fabric look pretty as part of a necklace?" It was a question I just had to answer! I spent several months exploring and experimenting and now have JaLa Designs.

Can you share with us the challenges that you have encountered related to starting a business?

The primary one would probably be having a limited budget. So, really trying to get the most bang out of each buck. Along with this, being a one-person shop, it’s challenging to find the time to do everything I want to do.

I think an obvious challenge for any entrepreneur right now is the state of the economy, which, by the way, I have full confidence will turn around. Considering JaLa is relatively new - it’s done pretty well despite the economy, but wading through this environment does present some challenges - and opportunities, I’d add.

How did you overcome these challenges?

Having allocated some budget to hiring external resources to manage the things I either don’t have the time or inclination to do has helped. You’ve got to know what you’re good at and for what things you need outside help. Also, just figuring out the lowest cost options is key.

Can you share with us something that very few people know as it relates to your business?

I guess I would point to the name, JaLa. Many people ask me what the name means. It’s inspired by a very close family friend of mine who passed away unexpectedly. She was one of my favorite people in the world, and naming JaLa after her is my small way of honoring her life and memory. Every time I either look at the name or speak it, I think of her.

What words of advice would you provide to others who are considering starting a business?

~ Have a clear and focused plan in place – if you don’t know where you’re going, every road will take you there. Isn’t that the saying?

~ If hiring external resources, vet them carefully. Interview them thoroughly – ask about what they’d do for your business, ask about past results they’ve achieved, talk to references, etc.

~ Hiring a consultant can be expensive, so you want to make sure you’re hiring the best person for the job!

~ Have patience. Growing a business doesn’t happen overnight.

~ Have resilience. When growing a business, there will be bumps in the road. Be able to withstand them and learn from them. This leads me to one of my most important pieces of advice…

~ Be open to constructive feedback and, when appropriate, ACT ON IT!

Do you have any special offers for those reading this interview?

Pink Heels readers can get 15% off any JaLa Designs piece. To redeem their discount, visit http://www.jala-designs.com/ and enter PINKHEELS at checkout.

Would you like to be considered for an upcoming "Spotlight On" post? If you have a web site and a business Up & Running story, please email Jennifer Moore at Jennifer@Pink-Heels.com. You can be located anywhere in the world as we are creating a global network of fabulous women!