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Entrepreneur: It is Time to Build Your Wealth

3/23/2015

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By Jorge Zavala | Wealth Manager, Du Monde Holdings

I've said it before and I'll say it again: everyone loves money. If you don't, you're a gosh darn liar.

"Save more than you earn and invest what you save." Just ten words but it is so difficult to do it well. However, as in everything that sounds simple on the surface, the real picture is always more nuanced and requires more much more detail and thought. Here are 5 rules of building wealth that I encourage all of my clients to follow in order to build more wealth for their business, families, and persona.

1) Track what you earn and spend

I am always amazed by how most people do not know how much they spend on various needs and wants each month. If we do not track what we earn and spend, how can we possibly create and follow a financial plan?  You may find it a nuisance to key in small sums. The good news is that you are not audited like a business, so you can always make a rule to only key in expenses above $10 and have the rest classified as miscellaneous or cash withdrawals. Equally important, by tracking your income from salary, rent, etc. You will also be able to accurately know how much of your income is passive and active and also project cashflow. This can come in very useful when deciding whether you have enough money to invest in an asset down the road.

2) Create a monthly and annual budget

Once you have clarity on where your money is going and what is coming in, the next step is to bring it under control by setting clear budgets on major categories. I am a firm believer in the 80/20 rule. So to avoid spending too much time, just set clear budgets on your top 5 to 8 categories. These should account for 80% or even 90% of your spend. If you are like most people, it will comprise of categories like Transport/Petrol, Insurance, Groceries, Dining Out, Entertainment, Utilities, Rent/Housing Installment, Car Installment, Education etc.

Then the next step is to monitor and make sure that on a monthly and cumulative basis, you are keeping your spending below the budget. Needless to say, your budget spending should be less than your monthly and annual income. The extra left over is your saving.

3) Educate yourself
Once you start to accumulate savings beyond your buffer, it is tempting to plunge into the glitzy world of investments and try to make your money work for you. STOP! Don’t go into investments by yourself unless you understand the fundamentals, equity vs fixed income vs alternatives macro economic factors, industry unique factors, etc. On top of all this, you need to make sure you have a firm handle on your own personality/temperament and risk profile.

4) Leave investing to the professionals  
For the rest of us, I strongly suggest we leave investments to the professionals. Decide on your personal risk profile and future needs. Then find a good financial planner to help you work through what is a good portfolio allocation and invest in either ETFs or funds that give you that allocation needed.  This allocation will frequently have major fixed income and equity allocations. It should also be diversified across industries and geographies. Once allocated, what you need to do is to review each year and make the necessary tweaks. I suggest you set aside a small portion of real money and use it to test your hypothesis for 1 year. If you are able to beat your professionally managed portfolio, then allocate 20% next year and so on.

Investing your money is a fun, exciting way to increase your wealth and learn a trade. Successful entrepreneurs are awesome at challenging the status quo and balancing risk with realistic goals. There are always risks associated with investing your money, so consult a professional before making any big financial commitments and risks. Have fun: it's a hell of a journey!
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What I learned About Life by Working with the U.N.

1/21/2015

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Jorge shopping for snacks in between a peace-keeping mission on the border of Thailand and Laos.
By Jorge G. Zavala | Creative Director

Before I start, I'd like to mention that it's taken some time for me to come to terms with the wonderful aspects of such heavy, serious conditions and experiences that came with working with one of the world's leading peace-keeping organizations. This is a brief glimpse into my life as an Associate Expert in the Advocacy and Visual Media realm of the United Nations' Human Rights and Justice Department. While I do mention specifics of working within the aforementioned department across Asia, it is important to note that the experiences detailed are my own and are discussed solely for the purpose of educating rather than disseminating confidential information about agencies mentioned.


Discipline is a word that gets thrown around quite often these days. Students are encouraged to have it, professionals must practice it, and relationships more than often lack it (at least the ones I've encountered, but that's a different story). My years of working with the United Nations taught me that discipline isn't just the 672nd word in the Webster dictionary (I dare you to count the words leading up to it in the 2014 edition) but it's also a way of life: the only  way of life if you plan on surviving a peace-keeping mission in a rural developing country or a corporate meeting.

I spent my early twenties learning two Asian languages, polishing my skills in French and Spanish, and using English as a means of communication between the U.N., U.N.E.S.C.O., and U.N.I.C.E.F. reps across the board. Specifically working in the realms of human rights, there are certain values that make a man a better agent of change for such large agencies. The following traits, which have been both useful for survival in Southeast Asian territory and in business, are proudly my own and have been shaped by my global experiences.

1) Have plenty of discipline, shit head. In order to survive in a remote village in Southeast Asia, you need to learn how to start a fire if you plan on staying warm, speak the local language (even if it's just to ask for the restroom), and make friends with the people who are trying to annihilate the people you were sent to protect. U.N. work may seem glamorous what with all the travel to exotic locations and what not, but the reality is that it's tons of work and very little sleep. Also, if you're working in human rights, you must learn how to not let emotions conflict with policy work. Discipline keeps you grounded, smart, and able to function, unlike the shit heads who came out to the region only to make fools of themselves and their nation(s).

2) Be a charismatic a-hole. Boom, #justlikethat. People have to like you if they are going to trust you eventually. In other words, if you are going to be an agent of change you can't come in acting like a complete dimwit foreigner and expect things to fall on your lap (unless you're at a bar in Bangkok, but that's a different story...). You have to be witty, friendly, and willing to be flexible with regards to how long something takes or even tolerating flirtation from your superiors (yes, the world outside of the United States has little to no boundaries). Be a man, suck it up, and chug that bottle of Thai whiskey and move on to something fun and exciting. The Thais believe in a concept called "sanook dee" which roughly translates as "to have fun and good (with everything)". Whether you're rescuing a young woman from a human trafficking ring or teaching an entrepreneur in Laos basic English, you have to like what you're doing, even if it's some hard-hitting shit. Life happens, so be happy that you come from a place that allows you to be on the saving end of the spectrum.

3) Professionalism, what's that? I learned that while there is a certain protocol to acting like an adult, working in the "real world", and having a standard job, this really doesn't apply to any industry working outside of 'Merica. The U.N. truly allowed me to see that while the agency perpetuates an utmost respect for the charter of human rights, the actions are not always on par with what was preached. Sometimes, one has to bend the rules in order to allow your mission to work. No, I'm not saying slay a goat for fun (unless it's a local custom, in which case you must do it before someone finds out you're a narc) but definitely consider thinking outside the box when it comes to the greater good.

4) Baby, just fucking own it. #OwnIt. Own that pair of skinny jeans, bro. Own that bottle of cheap Korean rum you stole from the brothel. Own the fact that your skills are sub-par but you still got a bad ass job because of your last name. In other words, just fucking own yourself and who you are. There were plenty of people while I was in Southeast Asia that told me I was too young to give a damn about the rest of the world. Many folks, both my compatriots and assorted other nationalities, regularly commented that my attitude didn't match a peace-keeping mission, particularly because of my drive to work hard and get hard results. To those who tried to throw their 2 cents where it wasn't needed, I thank you. Thank you for helping me get to where I am today. Anything worth doing is not easy, and the hazing ritual is always a part of the experience. Not to say that I support hazing, but I believe that in getting picked on here and there you learn about community, team-building, and how to be a bad-ass. Without it, we're all "winners" in life and, let's be real, not everyone is a winner. #SorryNotSorry

Now, these are just the basics. As an entrepreneur, we all learn to make mistakes and go with what works. However, to become a successful entrepreneur you have to be smart, confident, aggressive, and own every bit of who you are and know that you will be just fine.

About Jorge
Jorge is a Chicago-based public relations and brand management guru with 5 years of experience in the realms of branding, public relations, cross-cultural communication and advertising, and media relations.

A lover of food, business, and travel, this young entrepreneur has lived in over 19 countries and visited more than 47 for both work and pleasure. Jorge spent a significant amount of time living and working in Southeast Asia where he helped victims of human trafficking establish 1 and 5 year plans to empower themselves and their communities.

In addition to his work in human rights and business development, this young man has also established a fair-trade program in both Thailand and Mexico, working directly with women entrepreneurs to sell their crafts to a global audience and provide for a fair, living wage. His motto, "think locally, act globally" is how he lives.

Connect with him on Instagram and Twitter.
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Young Entrepreneur: Welcome to the Rest of Your Life (Part 1)

1/2/2015

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By Jorge G. Zavala | Creative Director

Happy 2015, insiders. Not to sound cliche, but this truly is y(our) year.

No matter how old you are, where you’re from, or what you do for a living, we all share something in common—a desire to be successful. Each person’s definition of success is different. Some may define success as being a loving and faithful spouse or a caring and responsible parent while other people would equate success with wealth, fame, and power.

We all want to achieve success so we could live a comfortable life—have financial freedom, drive a nice car, and live in a beautiful house. However, although success can be achieved, it does not come easy. As an entrepreneur, I understand the true struggles that come with independence from the standard 9-5 grind. The journey is a roller-coaster of a party, and there are tons of advice out there on how to "make it" as a sexy young thing making magic happen.

However, what I offer to you is my unique personal insights living, working, and savoring the entrepreneurial life in Chicago within the public relations, lifestyle, and society circuit. The following are my 5 bible rules for success in the E-life (entrepreneurial lifestyle):

1. Think BIG. The greatest danger for most entrepreneurs lies not in aiming too high or falling too short, but in setting our aim way too low. Be bold, be aggressive, and, most importantly, be a bad-ass. Don't take "no" for an answer, and always make sure you come to meetings prepared.

2. Be Passionate about Your Work. If you are already putting in tons of hours into what you love but are not getting paid for it, don't take it was a bad sign: you're a legit entrepreneur. Passion makes you powerful, and the skills you learn along the way will be lucrative. Sometimes, all we need is the appropriate agent/representative to discover us and point us in the right direction.

3. Balance. Love and war, yin and yang, whiskey and...root beer. We all need balance and we are responsible for crafting such a niche in our lives. Do yoga, go for a run, lift heavy, brah: do whatever you need to do to essentially do you. If you love what you do, then work is never really "work". However, sometimes taking a step back to unwind is exactly what we need to continue the magic-making process. As one of my favorite aunts has so bluntly put it: "Honey, we've all got work, but we've all got needs. You need to do you."

4. You're Going to Fail and It's Going to be so Damn Sexy. As the talented and lucrative Henry Ford once said,“Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.” Live, learn, and love.

5. You Better Work. Regardless of what we see on television or in the media, entrepreneurs do not live a comfy lifestyle initially. We work 70-80 hour work weeks in order to make ends meet during the first few years of our business endeavors, we may not look our best at all hours of the day (unless you're me), our incomes are based exclusively on how much diligence we invest in ourselves and our work, and very few other experiences in our life push us to make friends with happy hour. However, you're worth it. Don't be afraid to invest in your work and, most importantly, invest in yourself.
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Business and Becoming a Great Leader

12/15/2014

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By Jorge G. Zavala | Creative Director

Everyone loves money.

No, that's definitely not a typo. Everyone. Loves. Money. It's that simple. From the most affluent investment banker in NYC to the fashionista in London to the entrepreneur in Chicago, we are all driven to success, and success will often mean financial stability. Having a passion for obtaining financial success is not a sin, and no matter how much society tries to shame the rich, we can't honestly say that we don't wish we were in their shoes. Come on, just a little? Ok, you're a better person than I am.

Now, money isn't the only thing that makes the world go 'round. For those that care both about financial success and personal success, I offer tips that have been helpful to my social sphere, family, and yours truly. The following rules apply to work, life, and everything in between, and are of particular importance to anyone who has to sell themselves. Come on, get your head out of the gutter: you know what I meant. Everyone has to sell their vision and mission: lawyers, small business owners, sales(wo)men, PR gurus are all doing it and you may not even know it.

The following are some of my basics in business and in life that have proven time and time again to be successful. In conjunction with a 1-year, 5-year plan and a few goals, you can secure the success of yourself and your wallet.

CULTIVATE A (GOOD) REPUTATION
As Warren Buffett has oh-so-candidly put it; ‘It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it.’ Cultivating a reputation is a lifelong endeavor, but maintaining one is even harder. By understanding that reputation is a 120% commitment, you’ll find that you impress upon yourself the very highest of moral and business standards. This will ensure that you are well liked and respected throughout the business community.

BE OPEN ABOUT YOUR MISTAKES
Ask any business elite and they’ll tell you that, despite their millions or billions, they made plenty of mistakes en route to the top. Trust me, I've definitely made plenty of mistakes along the way, but by being open about who we are we can truly embrace the fact we are all human and are on this journey together.

SPEAK SIMPLY
Don't be complicated and speak the language of the people. If running for congressman as the youngest candidate in the nation (2014) has taught me anything, it's that being able to speak to your constituents in a manner that is understandable is key to embracing a community, and they you. Plus, no one likes to feel lost and confused: bad for business, definitely bad for relationships (uh oh).

TRUST IN YOUR OWN JUDGMENT
If you’re leading others, the chances are you’ll be pretty capable at what you do – and therefore you should have faith in yourself and trust in your judgement. The status quo is not always right, and if you're confident enough to wear that Christmas sweater in February while still getting the sexy eye from the guys and gals, then rock on. Be confident, be a stud.

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About Jorge
Jorge is a Chicago-based public relations and brand management guru with 5 years of experience in the realms of marketing, graphic design, cross-cultural communication and branding, and media relations.

A lover of food, small business, and travel, this young entrepreneur has lived in over 19 countries and visited more than 47 for both work and pleasure. Jorge spent a significant amount of time living and working in Southeast Asia where he helped victims of human trafficking establish 1 and 5 year plans to empower themselves and their communities.

In addition to his work in human rights and business development, this young man has also established a fair-trade program in both Thailand and Mexico, working directly with women entrepreneurs to sell their crafts to a global audience and provide for a fair, living wage. His motto, "think locally, act globally" is how he lives.

Connect with him on Instagram and Twitter.
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5 Ways to Get a Raise Before Christmas

12/1/2014

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By Tiffany San Roman | Business Account Manager

It’s always great to get a pay raise, but to get one before Christmas is ideal. The expense of the festive period seems to be greater with every year, so a pay raise to cover those extra Christmas indulgences would come in very useful indeed. Here are five ways to get a pay raise before Christmas.

REMIND YOUR BOSS OF YOUR PERFORMANCE THIS YEAR

The end of the year means that CEOs, directors and other company bigwigs are thinking about how their business is being run and how they could improve efficiency in 2015. They’ll want to separate the wheat from the fluff, promote those who have performed well and dismiss those who aren’t putting 100% into the company. You’ll want to subtly remind him of the good work you’ve put in during the year, and put yourself in contention for promotion.

PUT IN MORE HOURS AND EFFORT

As promotions and pay raises are considered, you’ll want to show that you’re prepared to muck in when things get busy. Christmas is a busy social time of year and few people are prepared to work late and many tend to slack off. By showing that you’re the exception to the rule, you’ll catch your bosses eye and put yourself in contention for that Christmas bonus.

BE AN EXAMPLE OF THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

You are competing with co-workers for that promotion/pay rise/bonus during the lead-up to Christmas and you need to show that you’re not just a good worker and an intelligent fellow – but also an all-round good egg. If you’re the one belting out karaoke at the office party, or organizing secret santa, you’ll likely be the one to get the pay rise – rather than those who aren’t displaying seasonal cheer.

ASK FOR A PAY RAISE

If you don’t ask you don’t get, so why not directly approach your seniors and ask for a pay raise. You’ll have to give reasons for the pay raise, citing performance, age and time at the company. It may not always work, but sometimes being very direct is the only way to get to the result you seek.

WRITE A REPORT ON COMPANY/SECTION DIRECTION 

By writing a report on the progress of your section or your company, you demonstrate initiative and show the directors that you are a leader – rather than a follower. Writing a report, or requesting to write a report shows that you take an interest in the company beyond the monthly paycheck and will result in you being earmarked and identified for promotion, and therefore a pay raise.

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5 Crucial Things to Think About Before Going Freelance

11/24/2014

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Many of us will be faced with the same professional dilemma at some point in life: freelancing, baby. The opportunity to go freelance presents itself and you have to decide whether or not to take the plunge. It can be a very exciting experience to become your own boss and take control over your professional and financial future. However, this decision is not without risk. These are the five things you should think about before going freelance.

1. MOTIVATION

What is your motivation for becoming freelance? Is it so you can spend more time at home with the family? Or perhaps it’s because you want to be your own boss? Do you find it hard working with others? Or do you always fail to make it into the office on time? Your motivation for considering freelance work has to be carefully considered. If there’s a definitive reason for wanting to go freelance it’s worth considering – if not then there’s no reason to take the plunge.

2. STRESS

Working freelance is definitely a challenge: you never know where your next paycheck is coming from and when you're working on a job you inevitably worry about getting onto the next one. When you’re on a roll things are great, but when the work dries up things can get very stressful. Whether you think you can handle the stress and the uncertainty should inform your decision to go freelance – or not.

3. MONEY

Often the switch to freelance is motivated by the desire to do more enjoyable work – often to the detriment of your bank account. When you consider going freelance something you have to think about is how much less money could you get by on? Some people live off very little, but some just can’t. Freelancers aren’t always hard-up of course but your wallet might take a hit during the transition.

4. WORK ETHIC

Whether you are self-disciplined enough to work without bosses breathing down your neck is something that you should honestly and objectively consider. When you are your own boss there’s no need to get up at 6:30, you can take hour-long lunch breaks and you can knock off at 3:00. It’s all very fun – but what will it do to your productivity? If you don’t feel that you’ll work as hard as a freelancer as you did as a full-timer, you’re probably better off sticking with the nine-to-five.

5. SUCCESS AND FAILURE STORIES

Do a little bit of research and you’re sure to find a fair share of success stories – and sadly more than a few cautionary tales. Some professions are by definition ‘freelance’ orientated; journalism, prop-making, design, painting etc. For those working in other sectors, transitioning to freelance may well be a trickier prospect. By talking to others and doing internet research you’ll be able to discern just how difficult freelancing within your sector will be.
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Career Tips for Prospective Public Relations Gurus

11/12/2014

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By Jorge G. Zavala | Creative Director  

The recession hit many PR professionals hard. However, turn that frown upside down, baby, because we have some proven techniques to bring out the PR guru in you! First and foremost, make sure you always look the part, ie. dress nicely. Next, secure a meeting, preferably a face-to-face one, with the folks you are interested in connecting with and establishing as clients. After, fully-develop a strategy incorporating these tips:

1. Focus on the Details
Whether it's crafting a pitch, creating a press release, or writing a speech, pay attention to the details. In today's world, where everything needs to be done yesterday, it's easy to let details slip through the cracks. Proofread your content, make sure the emails you send are addressed to the right person, and don't forget to link to your clients' websites. These may seem like no-brainers, but I don't know how many times I've received emails from reps without supporting links or documentation, or that are addressed to the wrong person. These details matter, and can be the difference between landing coverage for your client, or having your release end up in the trash.

2. Keep Learning
If you ever get to a point where you think there's nothing left to learn, that's a surefire sign of trouble. There's always something else to learn, even if you don't think it's directly related to your field. Attend relevant PR workshops, pursue your Master's Degree, and look for conferences within your field. Never lose your thirst for knowledge—it could signal the end of an otherwise promising career.

3. Position Yourself as an Expert
Post stellar content on your social media outlets to build trust as an expert in public relations. Seek out speaking engagements to show off your knowledge, and start a blog to highlight your success. These strategies can boost your career and open up more avenues for future growth.

4. Embrace Your Mistakes
Everyone screws up occasionally, and as a PR professional, it's essential that you own your mistakes. Your clients know you're human, so by admitting an error rather than hiding it, they're likely to trust you more. When you do make a mistake, own it, come up with a plan for preventing it in the future, and address it head-on with those who are affected. You'll be respected more for the effort.

5. Find or Become a Mentor
Are you a young buck just getting started in the PR field? Work with a senior employee to be mentored in the field. If you've been in the business for years, take a newbie under your wing and show him or her the ropes. Both strategies can enhance your career, expose you to new methods, and boost your reputation in the industry.

6. Develop Your Online Brand
When was the last time you Googled yourself? You want to make sure your online reputation is flattering. If you see something untoward, check with Reputation.com for guidance on how to improve your personal brand. Whether you're thinking about a career change, or you're trying to land new clients, you have to expect that others will look you up before they start a professional relationship with you.

Just like most things in life, no one is going to manage your career for you—your boss is too busy, and your coworkers are worried about their own careers. If you're not sure how to take charge of your professional life, consider enlisting a career coach to help you map out your goals and plan for the future. Otherwise, dust off that power suit and make sure you are looking fresh: hit the town and secure that client, baby.
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Prestige du Monde's Fall Faves 2014, #1

10/10/2014

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By Jorge G. Zavala | Creative Director

This year's Fall Faves list includes a diverse-range of goodies from vodka to gourmet coffee to prep wear to succulent snacks. All of these items are PdM approved and tested, and we guarantee you'll love them as much as we do. Without further ado, these are our recommendations for your fall delights.
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LEAF Vodka

A certified-organic vodka, this elixir first launched in New Jersey and Connecticut and has steadily gained popularity across the States and is coming to Chicago very soon.  The vodkas’ success has in part been fueled by diverse achievements and accolades, as both LEAF Vodka made from Alaskan Glacier Water and LEAF Vodka made from Rocky Mountain Mineral Water have received high marks in recent months by the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, among other competitions.

The vodka, which has a smooth, potent taste, is rich and very much a deity. The manner in which it caresses your tongue and leaves a fragrant 40% alcohol taste truly makes it a winner for these cool months ahead. We suggest savoring LEAF, taking sips at a time while staring at the changing colors of the leaves. For a sweeter, more fragrant taste, at 2-3 D'Blondie Kabocha coffee beans for a truly autumn taste.

While there certainly are other more popular vodka brands in the market, we believe in supporting good people doing great things, especially as it relates to providing a high-quality item to a more sophisticated clientele. We give LEAF Vodka the PdM approval and look forward to crafting our own Dirty Leaf cocktail this October.
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The Better Chip

As an avid snack enthusiast, I've eaten my share of chips, chips and salsa, chips and guac, and basically anything that fits between my fingers during Monday Night Football and the like. However, there truly isn't anything out there like The Better Chip, particularly their popular "Corn" flavor.

The brand offers a five ingredient salty snack with fresh vegetables bursting from the chip,and it definitely delivers a bold, unexpected flavor for a chip, which is great! Pleasantly surprised, we opened the chips and took a bite into the fresh snack. The flavors definitely are bold, exciting, and I would not hesitate to buy several bags all at once. Some of the really neat things, in addition to an amazing flavor, about the chips are that the company focused on creating a non-GMO product, which means that the ingredients are fresh. The chips truly go well with salsa, next to a sandwich, with your morning pumpkin-flavored coffee, or simply on their own.

The chips, which come in 5 flavors, are truly a hit for the season, just in time for football. We actually had the best time eating these with home-made guac: trust us. you'll love it.
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Vineyard Vines

The prep look is in, and if you aren't trending we aren't watching. Vineyard Vines is one of the premier brands to showoff your New England prepster look or your Midwestern Autumn gear with the perfect casual chic. While boat shoes may be the way of summer time (think Summertime Sadness), long sleeves are in, dark colors are here to stay this season, and shorts are never out of style - so long as they aren't jean shorts.

One of VV's more casual looks, this "New England Prepster" look is reminiscent of the east coast boatman, the confident young buck with a taste for freedom, passion, and a whole lot of sea, sand, and someone special. The look is fun, prefect for a pick-up game of soccer, rugby, or football, and goes well with a wide-range of shoes. Careful ladies and gents, this look makes most guys appear attractive, wink wink.
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D'Blondie Coffee Company

D'Blondie Coffee® believes in turning challenges into innovation so as to provide high-quality, organic, fair-trade coffee to North America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific Regions.  The company, which is based in Chicago, recognizes that real relationships with farmers, businesses, and consumers will ensure the long-term supplies and consumption of high quality coffees our industry has come to depend on.

Simply delicious and aromatic, D'Blondie offers 8 varieties of coffee beans and 3 blends. Our favorites include Puebla Alto, which comes from the Mexican highlands and is rich in both taste and aroma, and Kabocha, the signature pumpkin-flavored coffee blend from 3 regions. Tis the season for coffee, and lots of it. The wonderful thing about these beans is that they're great for black coffee, as espresso, and in signature alcoholic drinks, such as the mudslide.

The company is hosting a tasting on October 18 in Chicago and we will definitely be there to sample more of the company's delicious seasonal blends, perfect for the chilly weather to come.
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Four Ways to cut catering costs without sacrificing quality

8/4/2014

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By Ashlee Amber

There is no question that the food tends to be the focal point of any picture perfect wedding, gala or affair. However, choosing a menu that features gourmet offerings does not necessarily have to break the bank.  Here are some tips for getting the best value at your event:

-          Choose Light Hors d’oeuvres: Hosts sometimes make the mistake of having TOO much food! Don’t have your guests stuff themselves before a sit-down dinner; rather estimate about three to four bites per person and opt for budget-friendly options like bruschetta or stuffed mushrooms.

-          Offer Fewer Entrée Choices: While it may be tempting to offer your guests a choice between fish, shellfish, chicken, steak and lamb… limiting the choices will help your pocketbook. Streamline the menu and offer two to three entrée options for guests to choose from.

-          Stick with Similar Sides: Pairing different sides with each entrée translates to additional cooking and preparation fees behind the scenes. Instead stick with perennial favorites like fingerling potatoes, haricot verts or roasted asparagus that pair perfectly with a plethora of proteins. 

-          Downsize the Cake: Bigger doesn’t necessarily have to be better. While it is easiest to estimate one serving per person and serve the cake following dinner, chances are you will be spending money on uneaten slices. Instead, have the cake served at the sweet table with a cake sized to accommodate approximately 75 percent of your guest headcount.
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7 Steps to Starting Your Own Business

3/20/2014

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By Jorge G. Zavala | Creative Director

It’s not how many hours you work nor is it how many hurdles you must overcome, rather business is about getting from point A to point B in the quickest manner possible while maintaining product quality and healthy margins. Often, when starting a business, entrepreneurs think too much about small, unimportant details. Since time is our most valuable asset, this carries a high opportunity cost.

In fact, a business can be up and running in a much more timely manner than most think. Here are 7 steps to get you there:

1. Determine your offering and market demand – Entrepreneurship is not about hitting a home run; trying to create the next “big thing” is a challenge and will often cost more (both time and money) to create than the payoffs are initially.

Instead of long shot, pick a job. Think, what do you want to do for a career? Determine what you want to sell based on what you’re passionate about rather than what you think will make money. If you love what you do, you’ll find ways to monetize it. Conversely, if you chase money, you’ll end up unhappy and worn-out.

2. Determine your pricing – If you’re a newcomer, don’t be afraid to price yourself under market. You could always raise your pricing in the future, but when you’re “green” you’re a risk to a client so give them some motivation to use your services.

The most profitable businesses that exist today (Walmart, Costco, Amazon) all compete on price while maintaining some form of quality. At first, worry about living expenses and getting through the first few months and obtaining those initial clients. Once you get some work under your belt, become more concerned with how much you can charge.

3. Determine how long it is going to take to make your 1st sale – If it is going to take 6 months to initiate a sale, have a year’s worth of income to live off of.

When it comes to budgeting, always play it cautious as shortage of money and chasing after unrealistic goals will lead to significant stress which hurts performance.

4. Determine your differentiators -Besides price, how does your product or service differ from competitors? The nice thing is in a service based business, if you learn how to sell and become an expert at what you do, you can be the differentiator.

I’ve come to realize that in any service based business, self-assurance and trusting one’s intuition is a differentiator in of itself. In time, you’ll learn what aspects of the product or service are important and secondary to the client. Until then, think price and quality.

5. Determine marketing – (figure out how to get leads) Make it simple and put up a website. Read about PPC and SEO.

If you’re selling business to business services, social media will help your search engine efforts, however you’re not going to be directly making money off of it. There are some great blogs to get you started on any topic.

6. Learn how to sell – The best salesmen / saleswomen don’t sell. Instead, selling can be broken down into two different parts, listening and knowing what you’re talking about.

Running a public relations firm, I’ve learned the difference between the average and wealthy sales professional or entrepreneur is that they can create realistic expectations for the client through gaining the client’s trust via your expertise.

The entrepreneurs who “Yes” to death end up letting their clients’ expectations get out of whack and, in turn create a relationship where only arguments, not money exchanges hands.

7. Learn how to execute the steps needed to take project to completion – Finally, put a set, organized process in place to take the service or product from start to finish in a predictable manner that yields the desired results. Think: Step A, Step B, etc. This is ultimately the game changer in the solution.

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About Jorge
Jorge is a Chicago-based public relations and brand management guru with 5 years of experience in the realms of marketing, graphic design, cross-cultural communication and branding, and media relations.

A lover of food, small business, and travel, this young entrepreneur has lived in over 19 countries and visited more than 47 for both work and pleasure. Jorge spent a significant amount of time living and working in Southeast Asia where he helped victims of human trafficking establish 1 and 5 year plans to empower themselves and their communities.

In addition to his work in human rights and business development, this young man has also established a fair-trade program in both Thailand and Mexico, working directly with women entrepreneurs to sell their crafts to a global audience and provide for a fair, living wage. His motto, "think locally, act globally" is how he lives.

Connect with him on Instagram and Twitter.
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