ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES – Day 12

Day 12 of the ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES!!  PLEASE make sure you READ, COMMENT, TAKE NOTES, and SHOW SOME LOVE to the fabulous folks doing awesome things! ~ 

Be Inspired!!!~

Chari Twitty-Hawkins – Houston, TX. – ChariTs Inspirational Creations  

TWITTER: http://twitter.com/cicinspireme

LINKEDIN: http://www.linkedin.com/in/charitwittymcd

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/ChariTs.Inspirational.Creations 

Tell the readers a little bit about yourself

I am a first and foremost a blessed woman of God.  I am blessed to be a stay at home mom of twins with a passion for inspiring others!  I love learning, the arts, rocking my natural hair, being green, being a wife and so much more!

Explain what type of business you operate?  I create handmade inspirational jewelry! Religious jewelry, natural hair earrings, cause awareness, going green, motherhood, the arts, sorority jewelry…anything that promotes positivity, I can make it for you! You can find my inspirational creations at www.cicinspireme.com.

How long have you been in business? Almost 2 years right after I had my babies.

How did you get the name for your business? I was raised volunteering and helping others in my younger years and have a heart for charity. I took the word charity and spelled it with my nickname (Chari) and added my then last initial (T) to the end. Then I added Inspirational Creations to become ChariT’s Inspirational Creations because my jewelry is made to inspire! (Regina: VERY Creative!)

What motivated you to start this type of business?

After the birth of my twins, I was laid off which some would consider a bad thing. I consider it a blessing in disguise. During those first CRAZY months of taking care of my twins I said God I need to do something for me. I asked Him Lord what do you want me to do? Then one day I was on Etsy looking at all of the unique handmade things and thought hmm I could make my own jewelry. But what kind? Then it came to me, I love to inspire people so why not make jewelry with an inspirational theme? And the idea was born!

What are your top 5 must have business tools/aids? A great support system! I have learned the importance of this as a business owner. I am currently a member of the National Association of Christian Women Entrepreneurs and ibloom. Also a great marketing strategy, determination, a willingness to learn ALWAYS, and great customer service! (Regina: ALL Awesome tools, You can do nothing without support, determination, and good customer service!!)

Where do you see your business in 5 years? I see my business branching out into motivational speaking and performing. I am a lover of poetry, dance, theatre, and music and plan to get back into those areas of my life to inspire others!

Okay, so speaking of inspiration, what inspires you?

God inspires me, living my purpose, and seeing others live their passion and purpose in life thus giving others permission to do the same!

Who is your business icon or who’s business ethic do you admire?

My business icon is Oprah Winfrey. She has a superb team, helps others, and has her hands in so many business ventures. I love it!

If you were standing in front of a room full of hopeful, promising, entrepreneurs what would you say to them?

I would tell them to live their passion and purpose! To never give up, always be willing to learn, have a great support system personally and professionally and a great mentor too! God is behind them so there is nothing they can’t do!

FABULOUS!! I am definitely a fan of your work! You are indeed very inspiring!

Smooches,

Regina

Please visit my other spots:
https://reginathinks.wordpress.com/
http://reginasoldschoolfridayspot.blogspot.com/

ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES – Day 11

~Day 11 of the ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES!!  PLEASE make sure you READ, COMMENT, TAKE NOTES, and SHOW SOME LOVE to the fabulous folks doing awesome things! ~ 

Be Inspired!!!~

Jackie Spencer, Fort Worth,Texas; by way of New York State! – Published Author

FACEBOOK: JackieSpencer

 

Tell the readers a little bit about yourself. 

·         My name is Jackie Spencer.  I am an Elder at The Potter’s House of Fort Worth, under Bishop TD Jakes and campus Pastor Patrick Winfield.  I have 10 wonderful grandchildren and 2 lovely daughters, as well as 3 darling great grands and one on the way.  I have worked for the State of NY for 30 years in the areas of psychology, rehabilitation, staff and leadership development and the development of programs for developmentally disabled individuals and for children 6 wks to 12 yrs. I have a strong background in the Word of God as well as in research.  Research is my passion, especially when it can be used to help someone reach their full potential. (Regina: THAT is a lifetime of experience!)

Explain what type of business you operate?

·         I have authored 2 books and I am working on my 3^rdmanuscript.

How long have you been in business?

·         I’ve been gathering information for the book I am currently working on for years; but I felt the need to publish my other 2 books first.  Those 2 books were written primarily for my grandchildren.

How did you get the name for your books?

·         The title of my first book “A Black Man’sJourney Through the Annuals of Time”, came about as I was doing storytelling with my grandchildren about where they came from.  The title of my second book “The Sheep of His Pasture” came about as I was thinking of a way to tell them who they are in Christ.

What motivated you to write these particular books?

·         I became ill and was hospitalized and I thought I was going to die.  I didn’t want to die without making sure that my grandchildren had something to refer to that would continually remind them who they are and whose they are.  I don’t have a lot of money, so the best thing I could leave them is their identity.

What are your top 5 must have business tools/aids?

·         Business cards, an updated computer system, a telephone, a network, and a support system. (the last 2 are not the same)

Where do you see your business in 5 years?

·         In 5 years I hope to have finally finished my current manuscript and to be teaching the information contained therein to upcoming leaders.  The manuscript is on leadership.

What inspires you?

·         I am inspired by family and the desire to see people reach their full potential.

Who is your business icon or who’s business ethic do you admire?

·         Haa Haa, it’s Jesus.  He is the world’s most successful leader and He’s still in business after over 2,000 years.  Can’t beat that with a stick! (Regina: Of course you would say Jesus!)

If you were standing in front of a room full of hopeful, promising, entrepreneurs what would you say to them?

·         I would tell them to first research what their gifts, purpose and passions are, then evaluate their skill set and hone their skills.  As Jackie Mom’s Mabley once said “practice baby practice”.  I would tell them to make certain that their plan lines up with those of the master planner; after all He created them, and He knows their purpose.  I would end by telling them that once they have their direction straight, not to give up and not to be distracted by the issues of life – keep moving forward! (Regina: I DEFINITELY AGREE!)

Is there anything you would like to add?

·         There is a plan and purpose for every life, but we must search it out.  If you know where you’ve been, it will help you to get where you’re going without repeating the past.

Looks like The Elder has spoken! And let the church say AMEN!!


Smooches,
Regina

Please visit my other spots:
https://reginathinks.wordpress.com/
http://reginasoldschoolfridayspot.blogspot.com/

ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES – Day 10

~Day 10 of the ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES!!  PLEASE make sure you READ, COMMENT, TAKE NOTES, and SHOW SOME LOVE to the fabulous folks doing awesome things! ~ 

Be Inspired!!!~

Davida Green-Norris writing as Dicey Grenor, Houston, Texas – Published Author

TWITTER: @DiceyGrenor

LINKEDIN: Davida Green-Norris AND Dicey Grenor

FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/attygnorris AND http://www.facebook.com/DiceyGrenor

GOOGLE+: Davida Green-Norris AND Dicey Grenor

Tell the readers a little bit about yourself.

I have a twenty-two-month-old son and a four-year-old daughter. I have been married for five years to a man I met my last year of law school. I want what most parents do, to provide a happy, safe environment for my children, and be a good example for them to follow. I love reading, writing, and watching movies.

Explain what type of business you operate?

My husband and I have a law practice: Norris & Norris LLP (http://norrislawyers.com). He primarily focuses on intellectual property (patents, copyrights, trademarks), while I primarily draft, review, and negotiate contracts. I also do business formations and parole board revocation hearings a few times a month. Together, we also operate Dicey Grenor Books (http://diceygrenorbooks.com), which means we sell books that I’ve written. (Regina: LOL! Way to maximize exposure!)

How long have you been in business?

We’ve had our law partnership since 2007. We’ve been selling my books for eight months.

How did you get the name for your business?

Naming our law practice was easy. We just used our last name. Naming our book business required a little more thought, but once I came up with my pen, there was no other name that would fit. “Dicey” alerts folks to the type of books I write: unpredictable, risky. (Regina: Yes! They are VERY Risque!!)

What motivated you to start this type of business?

My husband and I are entrepreneurs at heart, I believe. Perhaps we inherited that attitude from our parents since both sets are successful in real estate and my husband’s family has owned and operated a successful soul food restaurant in Chicago for many years. We learned early on that running a business takes dedication, passion, and skills. The first two came easy. The latter we acquired over the years and applied without hesitation.

What are your top 5 must have business tools/aids?

1. Laptop 2. Internet/Email account 3. Cell phone 4. Business Cards 5. Reliable transportation

Where do you see your business in 5 years?

With residual income that requires us to work less than fifteen to twenty hours a day. Hopefully.

What inspires you?

My children’s futures.

Who is your business icon or who’s business ethic do you admire?

I like rags to riches stories and admire anyone who has overcome severe obstacles to become successful in his or her respective career. There are many who fit this description. However, as a wife, mother, attorney, and author, I’m more interested in watching and learning from someone who strikes a balance with several roles and appears successful in each. That’s harder to find. Jada Pinkett Smith seems to have found a way to make it work. I admire that. (Regina: Yes, Ma’am, she is a hard working woman!)

If you were standing in front of a room full of hopeful, promising, entrepreneurs what would you say to them?

You can work anywhere and make money to pay bills. So if all you want is to make money, get a job. If you’re going to start a business, make sure it’s doing something you LOVE to do. You’ll continue to do it. You’ll continue to improve. And eventually the money will come. In the end, you will be much more fulfilled.

Is there anything you would like to add?

Thank you so much for thinking of me. I enjoyed doing this interview and wish much success to any of your readers interested in starting their own business. (Regina: Aww, aren’t you sweet! I enjoyed having you!)

Mrs. Davida Green-Norris AND Her Alter-Ego Dicey Grenor Ladies & Gentlemen!!


Smooches,
Regina

Please visit my other spots:
https://reginathinks.wordpress.com/
http://reginasoldschoolfridayspot.blogspot.com/

Thank You…

I thought about this today…

Psalm 23

A psalm of David.

¹ The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
²     He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
³     he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
    for his name’s sake.
⁴ Even though I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
    for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

⁵ You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
⁶ Surely your goodness and love will follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.

ALL I can say is THANK YOU JESUS…

Smooches,
Regina


Please visit my other spots: https://reginathinks.wordpress.com/ http://reginasoldschoolfridayspot.blogspot.com/

ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES – Day 9

~Day 9 of the ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES!!  PLEASE make sure you READ, COMMENT, TAKE NOTES, and SHOW SOME LOVE to the fabulous folks doing awesome things! ~ 

Be Inspired!!!~

Tamika Newhouse, Atlanta, GA. – “Published Author”

TWITTER: TamikaNewhouse

LINKEDIN: TamikaNewhouse

FACEBOOK: TamikaNewhouse

  

Tell the readers a little bit about yourself.

I am a 26 year old woman who had a dream of being a novelist at the age of twelve. By the time I was 21 I had my own company a major book deal and was a mother of two. My dreams became my main goals to pursue.

Explain what type of business you operate?

I am a book publisher. I publish books for us and by us. That simple!

How long have you been in business?

At the age of 21 I launched my own publishing company, Delphine Publications by publishing my own book The Ultimate NO NO. I went on from that book and landed a major book deal without an agent all the while publishing other authors and continuing to write independently. It has been a total of five years now.

How did you get the name for your business?

I named my company Delphine after my late mother, Delphine Jamison for the sole purpose of paying her tribute and continuing on her legacy.

What motivated you to start this type of business?

I always tell people I am writer, writing didn’t choose me it chose me. So when starting this company I just simply wanted to write. I had no clue it would grow into something more that could actually take care of me and my family.

What are your top 5 must have business tools/aids?

Determination, creativity, motivation, basic math skills, and obsession. (Regina: FABULOUS, these business aids are obviously important but are not material items!)

Where do you see your business in 5 years?

I see my company growing in numbers by at least double the amount. I see a wide range of writers that I have helped along the way make their publishing dreams come true and I see myself speaking about my journey as a young businesswoman.

What inspires you?

What inspire me are the ones I see around me that are unhappy but lazy. I never want to live a life just because. I want to live the life I have always wanted and live out my dreams.

Who is your business icon or who’s business ethic do you admire?

I admire Demetria Lucas and Zane. I love the image that Demetria puts out to the worlds and I love the empire that Zane has built. They both motivate me.

If you were standing in front of a room full of hopeful, promising, entrepreneurs what would you say to them?

If you are not obsessed about your dream then walk away from it now. It takes an obsessed person to go through the hell you are about to walk through in order to live out your destiny.

Author BIO:

Tamika Newhouse is a self-published bestselling author who founded Delphine Publications, at the age of 21; Tamika appeared on various bestseller lists and won Self Published Author of the Year at the 2009 African American Literary Awards only 9 months after her debut novel. In 2010 she was inducted into Who’s who in Black San Antonio and she landed a major publishing deal without an agent and still continues to write independent projects. In 2011 her company Delphine Publications won an African American Literary Award for Best Anthology as well as Tamika won for the second time Self Published Author of the Year. She was also nominated by the National Women in Business Association for the 2011 Entrepreneurial Spirit Award.

Along with Delphine Publications, Tamika is the founder and President of African Americans on the Move Book Club (AAMBC) – an online book club and radio show catering to avid readers across the nation. She is also CEO of Obsessive Soul Media. With future projects in the works from short films, stage plays and much more, Tamika is a young woman on a mission. She founded the Baltimore Urban Book Festival in 2011 and runs and operates the event today.

Tamika presently tours the country speaking about overcoming her teen pregnancy to fulfill her dream, as well as teaching aspiring writers the publishing ropes. A former radio host, she hosted her own Internet radio show (AAMBC) for over three years and continues to expand her brand. She is currently living in San Antonio with her son and daughter and is currently working on her fifth novel He’s My Favorite Mistake.

For Bookings: Nikki@NikkiWalkerPR.net

A Woman who knows what she wants and knows how to get it!!
Thanks Tamika!

Smooches,
Regina

Please visit my other spots:
https://reginathinks.wordpress.com/
http://reginasoldschoolfridayspot.blogspot.com/

ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES – Day 8

~Day 8 of the ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES!!  PLEASE make sure you READ, COMMENT, TAKE NOTES, and SHOW SOME LOVE to the fabulous folks doing awesome things! ~ 

Be Inspired!!!~

Trivia Spencer, Grand Prairie, Texas – “Pawstry Market”

TWITTER: mizezspencer

LINKEDIN: Trivia Spencer

FACEBOOK: Trivia Spencer / Pawstry Market

GOOGLE+: coming soon 😉

Tell the readers a little bit about yourself. I am from Chicago Illinois, been in Texas for almost half of my life.. Air Force veteran. Mother of 3 great kids and fur mommy to 2 beautiful boxers.

Explain what type of business you operate? Pet Treat Bakery

How long have you been in business? 2 years

How did you get the name for your business? I wanted to develop something that would represent cats and dogs, and also reflect the other levels that I want to take the business to. Currently we make baked “ccokies” for dogs and baked cat treats, the future is a store front that provides pet friendly meals and treats- not just kibble out of a bag.

What motivated you to start this type of business? The love of my fur baby Roxxy- I wanted to create healthy and safe treats for her when she turned 1 and couldn’t find anything in the pet stores that I was comfortable with.

What are your top 5 must have business tools/aids? Cell phone, email, software for bakery, portable payment system and Facebook page. (Regina: YES! Marketing truly matters!)

Where do you see your business in 5 years? I see my business being a full time retail location with meals and treats and a sponsor for Autism speaks and a neighborhood dog park and walking trail. (Regina: WELL, ALRIGHTY THEN!!! Talk about a five year plan, THAT’s what’s up!!)

What inspires you? My family, dogs included. They have been very supportive and continue to come up with creative ideas and marketing campaigns. They also keep me on point, when I don’t have orders they keep me motivated to continue to refine products and come up with new ideas.

Who is your business icon or who’s business ethic do you admire? Liddabit a Sweets– they are a small business based in NY. A dream and a kitchen and their little company have become something fabulous. Their operation isn’t high tech or fancy, but they provide wonderful treats and take pride in the ingredients and their process. (Regina: Ehem… You know I’m from Brooklyn right? Shout out to my hometown BROOKLYN, BROOKLYN!! sorry… please continue!)

If you were standing in front of a room full of hopeful, promising, entrepreneurs what would you say to them? Don’t let anyone tell you that you don’t have a good idea!! (Regina: EXACTLY, America was built on small ideas!)

What an awesome lady! This makes me ALMOST want a dog… ALMOST!
Thanks, Trivia!


Smooches,
Regina 

Please visit my other spots:
https://reginathinks.wordpress.com/
http://reginasoldschoolfridayspot.blogspot.com/

ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES – Day 7

~Day 7 of the ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES!!  PLEASE make sure you READ, COMMENT, TAKE NOTES, and SHOW SOME LOVE to the fabulous folks doing awesome things! ~ 

Be Inspired!!!~

Petula Wright, Stockbridge, Georgia – “Express Editing & Writing Services”

TWITTER: @Petula1968

LINKEDIN: Petula Wright

FACEBOOK: Petula.Wright

GOOGLE+:  PetulaWright

Tell the readers a little bit about yourself.

I’m a writer, editor and journalist with about 18 years experience as well as the blogger behind “It’s a woman’s world,” which I’ve been writing for about five years. I’ve written for CampusTalkBlog.com as the first-time college mom for Parents’ Perspective as well as contributing to other sites. When I’m not writing (or reading, which I love!), I’m being mommy to 5-year-old Anna, 7-year-old Amareah and Andre, who’s 8 as well as mom to almost 21-year-old Amber. And, in a few months, I’ll be a grandmother to a baby girl.

Explain what type of business you operate?

My “official” business is Express Editing & Writing Services. I began my career as a newspaper journalist then began working as an editor and writer for magazines. That transitioned into freelance magazine article writing and I began freelancing while still working at a publication full time. Eventually, I became a full-time contractor and freelancer who wrote magazine articles, consulted with editorial teams and edit magazine articles, edit manuscripts, served as a ghostwriter for professionals and authors as well as a myriad of other editorial duties.

Everything I do falls under that business, but I consider my blog as my main venture now since most things are done as the blogger from “It’s a woman’s world!” J

How long have you been in business?

I’ve been in the industry 18 years, but the business was established 16 years ago.

How did you get the name for your business?

The only thing I remember about coming up with a name was trying to express exactly what I do. I guess it didn’t work to well because people still ask me if I write resumes, which actually don’t have to be done by a writer.

With my blog, I had one that was really narrow in focus and I wanted one that expressed who I am and what I like to talk about as well as include the laziness of covering topics I love without being so newsy and journalistic. You know, more creative.

What motivated you to start this type of business?

At the time, I didn’t make much money at the magazine I was working for and it was a very high-stress environment. I knew I could still do what I love without having the stress of that particular work environment. I love the written word and doing this as a business seems natural.

What are your top 5 must have business tools/aids?

As long as I have my laptop with Internet connection and my cell phone then all is right with the world. Seriously, some other things I find invaluable are the 4-in-1 printer (printer, scanner, copier, fax) and scale for postage.

Where do you see your business in 5 years?

This is a great question and something I’ve considered a lot. Although I continue to offer editorial services and maintain my blog, I really want to evolve into an author. Blogger and author. I envision continuing editorial consultations, but my blog will go from mommy blog to author’s blog (or maybe the mommy author blog!). There are several book projects in the works and balancing life and work to complete them is a top goal.

What inspires you?

Things I love and enjoy inspire me. My children… nature: sun, clouds, stars, breeze…

Emotions often inspire my creative works…

Who is your business icon or who’s business ethic do you admire?

Business ethic? That’s a tough one. I actually don’t know anyone personally whose business ethic I admire, but I truly respect the empires, so to speak, that different celebrities have built. For instance, Oprah Winfrey (I remember watching her as a newscaster in the 80s), Mary Kate & Ashley (we all know how they started), Will and Jada, Raven Symone, … Those people who have worked in the entertainment industry, but have built businesses that are much bigger than what they started out as. (Regina: YES, I LOVE Raven Symone’s work ethic! Great business mind to be so young!)

If you were standing in front of a room full of hopeful, promising, entrepreneurs what would you say to them?

Think about this: What do you have a passion for? Something that moves you and that you’re skilled at… Something that you would do for free. If you don’t have that feeling about your current entrepreneurial idea then, if I were you, I would reconsider. We all have gifts that we’re meant to share with the world – the people around us – when we operate within those gifts and concentrate on our purpose everything we want will ultimately (and eventually!) result in success.

Is there anything you would like to add?

Keep in mind that even if you’re doing something you love it’s going to take hard work. Envision yourself rock climbing – using belays and everything – that’s how much strength you’ll need to make your thing a success.

ABSOLUTELY!!!!!
Thanks, Petula!


Smooches,
Regina

Please visit my other spots:
https://reginathinks.wordpress.com/
http://reginasoldschoolfridayspot.blogspot.com/

ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES – Day 6

~Day 6 of the ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES!!  PLEASE make sure you READ, COMMENT, TAKE NOTES, and SHOW SOME LOVE to the fabulous folks doing awesome things! ~ 

Be Inspired!!!~

Marvin Washington, New York, NY. – “Harlem Express Inc.”

TWITTER: @harlemsmover @imamover

LINKEDIN:  http://www.linkedin.com/pub/marvin-washington/39/825/940

FACEBOOK: facebook.com/harlemexpressinc

GOOGLE+: 

My google+page: https://plus.google.com/102074611431320747691/

Harlem Express: https://plus.google.com/106828324915712102608/

BLOG: http://harlemsmover.wordpress.com

Tell us about Marvin –  I’m a 43 year old father of 2 lovely kids: a son 18 years old (Eric) and a daughter 10 (Erica). I’m a God fearing man who loves helping others.

What type of business you operate? A small moving service that provides loading and unloading service and small moves: Harlem Express Inc.

How long have you been in business? I’ve been in the relocation industry for about 14 years, but have been running my own business now for 2 years.

How did you get the name for your business? From the area I stay in, Harlem N.Y. and the quickness I could use to respond with service!

What motivated you to start this type of business? Being in the relocation industry for so long, it was a natural progression to get to the point where I run my own business.

What are your top 5 must have business tools/aids? Google +, Twitter, Buffer, Tweet Scheduler and Timely.

Where do you see your business in 5 years? Self-sufficient, serving more than one state and providing more employment for people along the way.

What inspires you? the great gift of life, my kids, God and the love of my life and soon to be wife Rachel Thompson.

Who is your business icon or who’s business ethic do you admire? Donald Trump, McDonalds dollar menu (great service, great price!) and Rachel Thompson for the nerve and the guts to push on! (Regina: I most definitely agree on Donald Trump but I am mad about the McDonalds! LOL and now I’m hungry!!)

If you were standing in front of a room full of hopeful, promising, entrepreneurs what would you say to them? Never give up on your dreams and always keep faith with God in your heart and soul and always stay humble. (Regina: EXCELLENT ADVICE -NEVER GIVE UP, KEEP THE FAITH, AND STAY HUMBLE!! LOVE IT!)

Thank you Marvin!


Smooches,
Regina

Please visit my other spots:
https://reginathinks.wordpress.com/
http://reginasoldschoolfridayspot.blogspot.com/

ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES – Day 5

~Day 5 of the ENTREPRENEURIAL SERIES!!  PLEASE make sure you READ, COMMENT, TAKE NOTES, and SHOW SOME LOVE to the fabulous folks doing awesome things! ~ 

Be Inspired!!!~

Angel, Carson, California – “Shoe Diva Elevator”

FACEBOOK: Shoe Diva Elevator

I am Angel, I own a company called, Shoe Diva Elevator. On the Elevator we sell shoes, handbags, and fine custom jewelry and inexpensive jewelry. This is Elevator’s first year in existence. 

The name of the company was a result of a conversation with my husband. My husband asked me what I want to do, instantly I thought I want to Elevate, Motivate, Inspire, and upgrade people in Jesus. So he said take each word and start one business at a time. (Regina: Very creative way to come up with a name! Nice!) I started with Elevate, yes we sell high heel shoes, but also we show young ladies that they can dress classy with their style and fashion choices. We offer low prices and styles that are not common.

I have always loved shoes, once the shoes with the spikes and the skulls and cross bone began to emerge I wondered who is carrying the shoes for the ladies who feel skull and cross bones are distasteful. Handbags, accessories, shoes, these items can elevate an entire outfit.

I think the most important aids are networking; (Regina: Yes, Ma’am, networking is key! I definitely agree!) 

I have stumbled in my business venture and always had to ask questions. I am positive that having people in my network to ask question and look to for guidance has been optimal. I continue to pray that God guides me towards all of the help I might need.

In 5 years I see Shoe Diva Elevator supporting itself and growing into an online store that is independent, not relying on Facebook or anything else for marketing.

I am inspired by fear, whenever I feel that nervous unsure energy that comes with fear I feed on it, when everything I know says run the other way I think I can not be a prisoner to this. I’m like an all in girl. This has been my inspiration.

I admire people who have a dream and determine all of a sudden; here we go and jump.

If I were in front of a room full of promising entrepreneurs, I would say start right now, really consider you are dying in two years and you have two years to do everything that you want to do; before you leave this event have the name of your company written down. Have your mission statement written down and an outline for you business plan written down. Multi- million dollar companies have been started on the back of napkins. Kinko’s was started as a school assignment and the professor gave the student a fail stating that this company would never get off the ground.

Nike is not the only one telling you just do it.

I have a strong Faith base, I Pray and ask God for direction, if you want to be a success let Him run your business. 

Thanks Angel!
Yes, you most definitely need FAITH to get a business effective, operational and successful!

Blessings,
Regina

Please visit my other spots:
https://reginathinks.wordpress.com/
http://reginasoldschoolfridayspot.blogspot.com/

The Father To The Fatherless – Who’s Your Daddy?

Psalm 68:5 A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.

On this Father’s day, I am thinking about spiritual Fathers.  Spiritual Fathers are the men who are reproducing spiritually, men who have matured spiritually and are now nurturing, and training a younger generation of spiritual children.  The men who are taking the time to impart spiritual knowledge, wisdom, and practices on our young men and women (and the not so young!).  Think of the stuff your earthly father is supposed to do just from a spiritual perspective. You know the loving, training, disciplining, encouraging, inspiring, motivating, but all with a spiritual emphasis!

 

I started thinking of my spiritual father and came to the realization that I did not have a spiritual father.  I found it very interesting that my mother was a single parent mostly (my parents divorced when I was 7).  So after thinking about it for a very long time, I have come to the conclusion that my physical mother was also my spiritual mother and she was STILL a single parent.  Now don’t misunderstand me, I have had spiritual men who had a place in my life, and who imparted wisdom, or knowledge, or some other resource that I needed at the time, but none of them fit the role of a spiritual father.  I had an awesome Pastor years ago who was very instrumental and influential in my spiritual walk.  He was Pastor George Samuel, of Faith Christian Center, in Staten Island, New York.  Pastor Samuel exposed us to awesome people of faith and awesome training.  We received training and spiritual instruction from people like Casey Treat, David Demola, Marilyn Hickey, and other exceptional men and women of faith.  Pastor Samuel gave us training that was unmatched.  He was the closest thing to a spiritual father, but more like a spiritual uncle! 

We eventually moved to a new state, but I took all that I had learned with me!  My mother, who took it a step further and nurtured my spiritual yearning, corroborated everything that he gave me.  As I got older, I learned more, I studied more; I gained more knowledge and wisdom in the ways of the Lord.

I have been a member of other churches since FCC, but none of them matched the training I received early in my spiritual life.  The churches since then have complimented my learning, and multiplied it but no one has ever filled the role of a spiritual father.  

Even though I have never had a spiritual father, I do not feel that I have lacked in that area.  I never felt like a spiritual orphan, or like I was missing out on something because GOD WAS ALWAYS THERE! I think I have come to the realization of what the verse in Psalm 68:5 means or what it means for me.  God has provided the nurturing and guidance that I needed.  He has become my spiritual Father.  So when that verse says that God is a Father to the Fatherless I feel that HE has me covered spiritually!  Whatever I lacked HE provided! HE is truly the Father to the Fatherless!

Happy Father’s Day!
Smooches,
Regina

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