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Learning the secret to success with BodyBreak’s Hal and Joanne

Hal Johnson and Joanne McLeod are a big part of many people’s childhood memories in Canada– who doesn’t remember the BodyBreak theme song or those ParticipAction spots between Saturday morning cartoons?

So it was a pretty big fangirl moment to actually meet these icons in person. Part of the Generator team flew to Calgary to help our friends at Scleroderma Canada with live social media coverage at their national conference, where Hal and Joanne were leading a walk into downtown Calgary, and an inspirational talk at Eau Claire Market Square.

Scleroderma Canada awareness walk through downtown Calgary

We captured the event on Facebook Live, and you can watch the whole event here including the talk, which is near the end if you want to skip ahead: Click here to watch the video.

Suzanne captures the BodyBreak event on Facebook Live

Afterwards, talking with Hal and Joanne, I learned that they were not only fitness celebrities with a positive message of staying healthy and having fun doing it, they are actually entrepreneurs. Every BodyBreak video spot was created by their own production team including Hal as writer & director, and Joanne editing. Together they pitched and sold the spots to channels across Canada. Spin-off ideas and different revenue streams were created as part of their company, and over the past three decades, Canadians have always welcomed the encouraging pair’s message into their homes and schools.

I waved goodbye to Hal and Joanne, inspired not only by how incredibly fit and young they look (both are in their sixties now), but by their sincere friendliness and willingness to share openly about their success in both fitness and business. They are living proof that focusing on the positive equals happiness and success.

Generator team meets Hal and Joanne

-Suzanne, The Generator

Follow BodyBreak:

Facebook: @BodyBreak

Twitter: @BodyBreak

Instagram: @BodyBreak88

Learn more about scleroderma:

scleroderma.ca

Aug09

Local fempreneurs taking their sauces to the top

Posted by thegenerator in Uncategorized

A quick chat turned into a big success. But it didn’t happen overnight. For Jo Ann, Marlow and Mary, sauce is more than just a business. It’s a way of life. Hamilton has become a place for sauce making (think Dawson’s, Cooksville, Natal, Twisted Tomato, etc) and La Dee Da is the next big thing. We asked co-founder Mary some questions about entrepreneurship, the sauce business, and what the future has in store for La Dee Da sauces.

What’s the story behind La Dee Da?

A few years ago we decided to start a sauce company over a simple cup of coffee. It was founded by Jo Ann Elsbury, Marlow Italiano and myself. We’re all proud co-owners!

Can you tell us more about your sauces?

They’re Canadian Products, made in Hamilton, Ontario with locally sourced ingredients, and are plant-based, vegan/vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nightshade-free are options. All natural preservatives too. We’re inclusive to all eaters!

The La Dee Da Sauce lineup

What advice do you have for someone looking to start a business?

Simple. Do your research and due diligence before starting any business. Learn what customers are looking for, see what is lacking in the market you want to go into and be relevant with your product or service. Be innovative with something that consumers want. Lastly, be true to yourself and all your sweat equity you put into your business. Your heart and soul should go into anything you believe in and always remember to have fun!

What’s a business tool you could not live without?

Our Quickbooks was a blessing to a small business without all the extra expenses that come alongside accounting and daily operations relating to accounts payable/receivable/inventory etc.

Where do you see La Dee Da in the next 5 years?

We hope to see La Dee Da in every household as a trusted and branded name! We want to be a national brand and we have some amazing opportunities upon us to expedite that sooner than 5 years. With a lot of hard work and dedication, we know we can make this a reality.

What do you love most about Hamilton?

Mary and Jo Anne were born and raised in Hamilton. Jo Anne spent all her summers over at Gage Park running the Children’s Museum and Mary rooted herself working at the original Fortinos on Mount Albion. Marlow, originally born in Niagara Falls, came over to this great city at a young age when she married a Hamiltonian.

What we love the most is the diversity and the acceptance of anyone who walks these great streets of Hamilton. We have come a long way within the food industry, the art industry and the overall beauty that makes Hamilton so great! Maybe that’s why so many Torontonians are making their way over here and planting their roots!

Here’s a list of where you can get La Dee Da sauces locally:

La Dee Da Store Locator

Follow La Dee Da on:

Instagram: ladeedagourmetsauces

Twitter: ladeedasauces

Facebook: ladeedagourmetsauces

-Thomas, The Generator

May30

Cat cafe coming to Hamilton this summer

Posted by thegenerator in Uncategorized

What kind of business do you open when you’ve studied animal science in university, and paid for your education by working your way up in the hospitality industry? A cat cafe of course!

Nicole, owner of Cats & Caffeine

Nicole hails from Toronto originally, and more recently from Guelph where she studied at University of Guelph. The first business she started was an events company. Nicole explains, “the event company I was working for didn’t share my values. It’s really important to me to give back.” With her new venture, Cats & Caffeine, she plans to give back wherever possible through partnerships in the community.

Nicole secured a partnership with NCWL Cat Rescue based in Dunnville and operating throughout the Golden Horseshoe– a key partner for the business. The cafe will offer the opportunity for the rescue cats to be seen by many cat lovers and increase their chances of finding the perfect forever home.

Photo by NCWL Cat Rescue

Although Nicole has the location secured, she’s not quite ready to let the cat out of the bag just yet. Renovations are underway, but she’s still rounding up cash for some of the final pieces she needs to launch. Because of the huge amount of enthusiasm and community support, a crowdfunding campaign has been started, but Nicole will take out a loan if required to make it happen, she emphasizes.

Nicole was quick to sign on The Hearty Hooligan to supply the cafe with baked goods. “I immediately clicked with owner Staicha,” Nicole says. The Ottawa Street vegan eatery is wildly creative and well known for its take on retro comfort food, like a vegan version of Dunkeroos they call Punkaroos. “The values they hold fit perfectly with Cats & Caffeine,” Nicole explains. “And Staicha has acted as a mentor to me with every step of launching this business.” With a focus on vegan and gluten-free menu, Nicole has also signed on with local vendors Relay Coffee, and Sol Shine Culina.

Photo by The Hearty Hooligan

Cats & Canvas, June 22 at the LOST Organization

Another way Nicole wants to give back is by supporting the LOST Organization, another Ottawa Street organization, and non-profit community support for the maintenance of good mental health. On June 22, there will be a fundraising event called Cats & Canvas, where you can enjoy some treats from The Hearty Hooligan while painting, and participate in a raffle for amazing prizes like a $50 gift card to The Other Bird restaurants. You can get tickets here: https://www.bruha.com/event/3418

When asked why she is determined to start Hamilton’s first cat cafe, Nicole mentions how she simply doesn’t have room for a pet at home in her small space, and while wishing for a cafe similar to the one she used to frequent in Guelph (My Kitty Cafe) she realized she could make it a reality herself. Nicole worked as a volunteer for a seniors’ centre in Guelph and she was struck by how often seniors would lament about missing their pets more than anything else. “Cats offer such huge mental health benefits, and it’s something so many in the community could take advantage of.”

One thing is clear, a lot of good will come out of this cat cafe, and Nicole is going to make sure of it.

Photo by NCWL Cat Rescue

Expected launch date: Summer 2018

Want to help make it happen? Go Fund Me – Cats & Caffeine

Follow along for updates:

Instagram: Cats and Caffeine

Facebook: Cats and Caffeine

-Suzanne

May14

Tannice Goddard leads as example for multi business-running fempreneurs

Posted by thegenerator in Uncategorized

Tannice Goddard, a recent Hamilton transplant, demonstrates the multiple entrepreneurship drive that is a growing trend among women business owners. The talented and knowledgeable freelance book designer also runs a yoga business with a focus on classes for the over 40 set and those younger that need a class to allow “time to integrate” the postures within the body.

We had a chance to catch up with Tannice, and find out more about her business journey:

How did you end up with careers in both book design and yoga?

I was already freelancing for General (Stoddart) Publishing, before I left Toronto and moved to Cobourg. In Cobourg, I found myself drawing maps by hand for Comfort Inns across the country. At the same time, my partner Jorge and I operated a small art gallery and wellness centre there. While in that space, I invited a woman to do a morning of yoga for some friends and me. Afterwards I was so taken with the class, I asked her where she learned yoga. Three weeks later, I was enrolled in the Esther Myer’s 2-year teacher training. It was all for me, I was never thinking I would actually teach a class. After a year of training, we were told we had to videotape ourselves teaching yoga and my friends by then had talked me into starting a class — the only one in the town at the time.

Why did you decide to go out on your own rather than continue to pursue a position within a company?

I liked the freedom and flexibility of freelancing, working as close to my own rhythms as possible. It gave me the opportunity of integrating the yoga classes around my work. Perfect for my body! It also gave me the opportunity to have a variety of different types of work ,which allowed me to learn to do many different things such as signage, illustration, annual reports, medical brochures, books on law, newsletters, movie theatre posters, subway posters, etc. — until I became more of a designer of books.

What do you like about living in Hamilton?

After having lived 25 years in populations of 15,000 and smaller, family reasons brought us to Hamilton. It was a big change. I love the diversity, the architecture, the friendly people I meet, the energy of young people with their new ideas and enthusiasm, and the resources available. Recently, driving back and entering the city after visiting people in Port Hope, I realized that Hamilton had become my home.

Any advice to women starting their own business?

It would be nice to have a financial cushion in place or a plan before you take off on your own. Things don’t always line up like that though. I trusted my gut and my heart at the time, and the right opportunities seemed to line up with it. I met amazing people that supported my work and helped me meet others. And the quality of my work was of utmost importance to me. That is, I really was working for my client and giving them what they were asking for — and hopefully more. It is about helping others along your way and that is what they remember.

Any favourite local female-owned businesses?

There are so many! One peek at the Hamilton Fempreneurs Facebook page is amazing! Any field you want seems to have someone connected to it on that site. I have used more than one service from it, chosen food, and given feedback. Women are stepping right out there, dreaming big, doing things step-by-step and achieving their goals. We are sharing, helping each other find connections, and using each other’s services along the way. It’s an enriching way to do business.

“The era of competition, born out of fear and the need to be first or best, is falling away. Once it leaves politics and the status quo, we will be moving more towards sustainable living. Around me, I see exploration, personal risk-taking, co-operation and teamwork, and people bringing their hearts and minds together to foster a better place to work and create. Now, that is joyful!”
– Tannice Goddard, Always Amigos Yoga, and Books To Press

Find Tannice online:

Twitter:

Facebook:

Website:

– Suzanne

A Case for the Card – Laura Konyndyk’s illustrations will make you embrace tradition

Posted by thegenerator in Uncategorized

For those of us who are bit (or a lot) sentimental, greeting cards have a special place in our heart. Whether it’s for a birthday, a thank you, or a special occasion, there’s something about a personally selected card and handwritten note that an email just can’t compete with. We used to be limited to the big box retailers to find that perfect card, combing through aisles to find the one with just the right sentiments. After that, e-cards took over. But for those who like to (physically) hold on to every last bit of memory, an e-card needs a screen and battery to be seen. Nothing to store in a keepsake box to reflect on for years to come.

Once you see Laura Konyndyk’s cards, minimalists might have a change of opinion. Her colourful and cheerful illustrations can convert anyone back to paper greetings. Without being too corny, or at the other end of the spectrum, too brash, Laura’s company, Loose Leaves Paper Goods, sells watercolour cards, prints, and stationary with whimsical characters and charming messages. Greetings like “Thanks for having my back, mom” with a turtle carrying another smaller one on top, or two adorable squirrels getting married with the caption “Congratulations! May you always be nuts about each other!”

Laura started in illustration at a young age, and after studying Art and English at university, began to take her drawings a bit more seriously. While she never dreamt of becoming an entrepreneur, this is the path she’s been on and she’s happily embracing it. The best part is that when the administrative side of the business starts to get chaotic or overwhelming, she takes a break by painting for an hour. Laura explains, “It reminds me why I chose to build a creative business in the first place – because I love putting lovely things on a page!” That is definitely a big part of Loose Leaves’ success; Laura truly loves what she does.

We asked Laura a few questions about becoming an unexpected entrepreneur, to share some of advice, and talk about her inspirations.

What made you decide to turn your hobby into a business?

For a long time, illustrating was something I did on the side, on evenings and weekends. A big turning point for me was when I decided to try selling my illustrated greeting cards and art prints at a Hamilton Christmas market back in 2014.The response was so much better than what I’d hoped, and made me realize there was an enthusiastic customer base for my cards and prints in Hamilton.

After that, I took steps to sell my cards through local retailers too — bolstered by the belief that this “ greeting card thing” might just grow into something bigger if I gave it more time and energy. It helped that stationery, in general, seemed to be having a resurgence and that more and more people were seeking out unique, artistic cards.

Tell us a bit about Loose Leaves – when did you start it and how has the company grown?

Although creating and selling greeting cards happened somewhat gradually, Loose Leaves Paper Goods was officially “born” when I decided to get serious about selling my cards to a wider variety of stores in Ontario. I transitioned away from a full-time office job, and in January of 2016, I started approaching stores directly with card samples.
I did that for a while, and was somewhat encouraged by the results, but the most exciting development came in April 2016, when I reached out to a national stationery distribution company, and they agreed to pick up my card line – I was thrilled! That in itself was a huge learning curve, and I’ve spent the last few years really refining my process, establishing my brand, and securing the right suppliers. It’s been challenging at times, but Loose Leaves cards are now in stores all across Canada—and there’s no way I could have had the same reach on my own.

Selling greeting cards through a distributor has been an amazing opportunity, but filling large orders while making time to be creative can be a tricky balancing act. Some days are spent entirely putting cards in plastic sleeves. Others are spent illustrating. Obviously the creative work is more fun, but overall I’m excited and thankful for the way things have taken shape.

I also “hired” my sister, Julie Van Huizen, in a more official capacity last year. While she was a big part of the business from day one, she’s now taken on an official percentage of the business, and her background in graphic design has played a huge role in helping me prepare and market my work. Our skills are very complimentary.

What advice do you have for someone starting a business in a creative field?

Lean heavily on people who will be real and honest with you about your goals (even if they say things you don’t want to hear), and people who are *also* genuinely excited and enthusiastic about the potential they see in what you have to offer. Research your industry, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

It’s easy to romanticize running a creative business, and it’s good to remember that some days may be full of pretty monotonous grunt work. That’s ok – it doesn’t mean that you’re on the wrong track. Also the temptation to say yes to every client or commission request that comes your way may be strong, but consider those opportunities carefully. In that same vein, don’t just “do it for exposure” unless you really think it’s worth your time.

What do you like about living/working in Hamilton?

In my experience, I’ve found Hamilton’s arts community to be really welcoming. I get the sense that makers, artists and creative entrepreneurs are rooting for each other’s success. They see value in working in shared studio spaces, getting to know fellow vendors at arts markets, attending meet-ups. And it’s been great to be a part of that scene. Also, I’ve met so many people who, when they shop, are genuinely excited to buy something by a local Hamilton artist. That makes me happy!

Any favourite local female-owned businesses/makers?

So many! Wild Blue Yonder, Krystal Speck, Wolf Dottir, Nikki Kingsmill, Leah Courtney Pottery, Amanda Farquharson, Curious Oddities, Misty’s Minis, Steel City Studio, Girl Can Create. And on the retail side of things: Epic Books, Studio 205…

The longer I live here, the more this list will grow!

—

You can purchase Loose Leaves Paper Goods on Etsy, at various art markets and retailers across Southern Ontario and Canada, and select Chapters and Indigo locations.

www.looseleavespapergoods.com

Instagram: @looseleavespapergoods

-Stefani

Mar07

A fun hobby turned business for entrepreneur Tanya Odrach

Posted by thegenerator in Uncategorized

Hearing the business name The Fragrance Lab, I picture one fun workshop, with all kinds of flowery, fruity, and fresh aromas swirling in the air. Tanya Odrach launched her business of scented candles and body products in the summer of 2017 and quickly developed an impressive array of scents. Her creations are hand poured, cruelty-free, soy-based, and most importantly, as she describes, they smell damn good!

The Fragrance Lab boasts playful concoctions with names that don’t take themselves too seriously: Unicorn Farts, Cloud Wine, Hide That Pot Smell, Monkey Around, to name a few! Tanya gifted me the Pineapple Express – it’s scrumptious and tropical like a piña colada.

When I asked Tanya about the inspiration for the fragrances, she says: “From the beginning I wanted to make beautiful, high-quality products that smelled great, but I also wanted my products to be non-pretentious, edgy, fun, and maybe a little controversial; to make people smile and laugh and sometimes even shake their head in shock.”

And who wouldn’t laugh when given a candle called Better Than Sex! Tanya continues, “I really like to push boundaries and I think this is something that is expressed through my business. My very first product was my ‘Bad Ass Bitch’ candle which is vanilla coffee scented. I just kind of imagined the Baddest Bitch and what she would look like. I imagined her to be someone who is strong-minded, capable, who takes no shit and gets things done, and for some reason I imagined her always armed with black combat boots, a tight ponytail, and a strong cup of coffee.”

When I asked Tanya if she has a favourite, she reflects, “The type of scent someone is drawn to is very individual I think. I think sometimes fragrances are more than just for smelling good. They can evoke something real in you: a feeling, a memory, a deep nostalgia. I read that our sense of smell is the sense that is the most intimately tied to our memory, and for me I really feel like this is true.”

“For me, my favourite candle is our Mermaid candle and it smells like the ocean. I don’t think there’s anything that I love more than being in water. I’m a Pices, after all, and I could swim before I could walk. Lighting the Mermaid candle just brings me back to the happiest memories of my life – snorkelling in the Caribbean as a kid, discovering coral reefs, meeting fish, feeling so small and awe-struck at the tremendous power and mystery of the sea.”

Tanya first got into candle making for fun, first giving them away as gifts to friends and family. “When my friend told me my candles were better than some of the luxury brands she bought I thought that maybe I was onto something,” says Tanya.

The fun hobby soon turned into an unexpected business venture. It’s an inspiring story – Tanya was experiencing a rough patch in life, having gone through a breakup and also losing her main source of income. “On top of all this I have a disability – a genetic disease called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome – so just getting a normal job was out of the question. And then totally overnight I had this idea to start a candle business, and kind of out of a combination of desperation and lack of alternative options, I dove into it head first,” Tanya reflects. The Fragrance Lab made its first sale a week later, and Tanya hasn’t looked back. “It’s eight months later and I sell over 70 products online and in over 20 retails shops all over the country. When I look back at where I was less than a year ago I can hardly believe it, but I have to say that I never doubted my business for a second.”

Hamilton has proven to be a welcoming place for entrepreneurs, and with networks like Hamilton Fempreneurs, women in particular are pursuing big ideas. Tanya notes, “Hamilton is very unique in that it has an incredibly strong and supportive small business community. I’ve met so many amazing entrepreneurs and I am constantly inspired by all the new and creative things people are working on. It’s really a privileged and an honour to be a tiny part of such an awesome community.”

Ensuring that the candles are cruelty-free and soy-based is also an important part of the business model. What are some of the benefits of working with natural products? Tanya explains, ”I have been vegetarian my whole adult life so it was very important to me that my products were made using ethically sourced, cruelty-free ingredients. Some types of candles emit nasty chemicals that can trigger breathing problems and smoke that can stain your clothes and walls. I absolutely love working with soy because it is all natural, clean burning, and holds fragrance really well. Unlike other types of candles soy does not emit any C02 so it’s the healthiest option for you and the environment.”

You can find The Fragrance Lab products for purchase on Etsy and locally at Vagabond Saints (461 King St. E), Len Democratic (257 James St. N), and The Handmade House (5 Foundry St, Dundas). The products are also carried in Guelph, Cambridge, Ottawa, Smithville, and Québec.

Follow their dreamy feed on Facebook and Instagram @thefragrancelab_.

All photos courtesy of The Fragrance Lab

-Kristin

Feb21

Tara Smith, multiple business owner and artist, on entrepreneurship:

Posted by thegenerator in Uncategorized

“When I meet new people, or see strangers, I often photograph them in mid sentence. I see a photo in my mind, and cannot settle until I capture it. New people and places inspire me.” – Tara Smith

If you’ve been to a James Street North Art Crawl in the past couple of years, there’s a good chance you’ve been to the gallery Studio on James, located on the third floor just beside the AGH Annex. With the art always changing, there’s always different photography to see and enjoy each month. One of the co-owners and photographers at the studio is Tara Smith, a Hamilton-based photographer and entrepreneur.

Tara’s interest in photography began when she was 16, when she learned to process her own film. She enjoyed spending hours upon hours in the darkroom and she hasn’t looked back since. A freelance photographer for over 14 years, Tara doesn’t specialize in one type, but enjoys a variety of work, from infant photography, to professional headshots, to urban landscapes. She’s inspired by people and places that are new to her – an alley, an unfamiliar face.

Exploring the city itself plays a big part in Tara’s life. Her studio is a 10 minute walk from her home, and her company Prop Haus (more about it below) is just a seven minute drive away. Even in these short commutes, she grows more immersed in the city and her creativity is sparked by what she sees and experiences along the way.

Owning three companies definitely qualifies Tara as a seasoned entrepreneur. Growing up and seeing her parents run their own businesses made it a natural fit. While it’s a role that doesn’t come with scheduled breaks, Tara can’t imagine not being her own boss with the freedom to create her own schedule. As someone who’s self-motivated and dedicated to always do her best work, self-employment is incredibly rewarding. That said, entrepreneurship is not without its challenges. And in Tara’s case, with three businesses, she works hard to ensure each is given the attention it needs.

A little more from Tara:

Tell us about Studio on James.

I started renting space at what’s now called, Studio On James almost two years ago. We decided to brand the studio, each running our own businesses within. At first, it was simply going to be my shooting space, but it quickly evolved into so much more; offering kids classes, with the other photographer I share the space with, Deborah Kanfer. We have also just added Adult Classes to our roster. Things have grown very organically for us. We also run the studio as a Gallery, and offer up wall space to other photographers. Our goal is to have our walls filled with new work every month for Art Crawl. This invites new energy and people into the space, which we love. Studio on James will also be rolling out something very exciting this spring, so stay tuned.

What lessons have you learned being a co-owner at Studio on James?

My studio mate and I are very strong minded women. Working together and allowing each other to bring ideas to the table has helped me grow and develop my business. I welcome the opportunity to be better and do a better job. Two minds are definitely better than one. Although when either of us firmly believes something, it can be a battle of wills, but it’s all for the greater good, and we always come to an agreement.

How did Prop Haus come about? Was this always something you wanted to start?

I have worked off and on in Film as a Set Decorator and Art Buyer. Always having to go to Toronto for everything, and with a growing Film Industry in Hamilton, it seemed like a no brainer to open up a Prop House here. I wouldn’t say it was something I always wanted to start, but anyone who knows me, knows I love to shop, and thrift and am obsessed with Design. So, it was a natural next step for me.

What advice do you have for someone starting a business in a creative field?

There’s a saying “the downfall of most artists is their lack of business sense”. You will not automatically be good at all aspects of business; seek out help, educate yourself, out-source the things you’re not great at. Use your community for support. There are a lot of free programs out there (including one at Hamilton’s City Hall). Take them, or a small business course. Learn the business side of things, know your brand, get a handle on your SM. Have fun and GO for it!

– – –

Find Tara online to learn more about her current projects (including original photography) and businesses, follow her on social media or check out her websites:

@tarasmithphoto

@studioonjames

@prophausinc

www.tarasmithphoto.com

www.studioonjames.com

www.prophausinc.com

-Stefani

Jan17

Jaime Drayer, Creator at Kitties and Cabernet

Posted by thegenerator in Uncategorized

Jaime Drayer, Creator at Kitties and Cabernet
https://www.etsy.com/shop/kittiesandcabernet

If you’re a cat lover in the Hamilton area, you have most likely heard of the cat-loving-company ‘Kitties and Cabernet’.

Jaime Drayer, the creator at Kitties and Cabernet, makes unique cat and wine themed products like: art prints, greeting cards, t-shirts, hand painted mugs, and wine glasses. Though the designs are geared toward all cat lovers, Jaime specifically has in mind those introverted cat mamas who like staying in and drinking wine with their furry friends, like her!

Drayer has always loved crafting and dabbled in different projects. A graphic designer by trade, she had been creating something a bit more creative and meaningful than her corporate world life. In April 2016, a craft sale at a local cat rescue prompted her to create some wine-drinking cat-lady themed products inspired by her two tuxedo rescue cats, Tux and Poppy; thus Kitties and Cabernet was born!

For the creation process, Drayer designs, prints, and cuts her own paper goods in her home studio and freehand paints every single mug and wine glass; no two are alike! When Drayer needs to outsource some manufacturing for her business, she always uses other local small businesses in Hamilton, preferring to support local.

Her products can be purrr-chased (pun courtesy of Jaime 😉 ) through her Etsy shop, at local craft markets throughout the year and at local retailers like Studio 205, Nest, Vagabond Saints, The Hamilton Store and The Hamilton Burlington SPCA here in Hamilton, and in Oakville, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Port Dover and more. You can feel good about your purchase from Kitties and Cabernet, because 10% of every sale goes to a local cat rescue.

We asked Jaime a few questions about business. Here’s what she had to say:

Q: Any advice to women starting their own business? A: If you’ve been dreaming of trying something, just do it! It doesn’t have to be perfect, you can improve things as you go. There’s a lot you can do with very little money, start small and take baby steps. I’ve tried so many things that failed but I’ve learned from it each time. Be prepared to make some social sacrifices and work harder than you ever have, but it will pay off. I think of it as a short term sacrifice for a long term goal. After working about 100 hours a week for the last year and half, I’ve just resigned from my full-time job to focus on growing Kitties and Cabernet and freelancing as a graphic designer for other small businesses. I would also suggest joining some local Facebook groups like Hamilton Fempreneurs, there are a lot of wonderful and supportive women in our city who are happy to build each other up. I’m incredibly grateful for my local small business friends, we are constantly bouncing ideas off each other and their feedback and support is invaluable.

Q: A business tool you could not live without? A: I would have to say Instagram, it’s free online advertising and cats are like royalty on the internet!

Q: Do you have a favourite female-owned business in Hamilton? A: There are a lot of talented women in our city so this is tough… I am however, extremely inspired by Sonia Seguin the founder of Body Brave. She left her career to create an accessible non-profit organization for women struggling with body image issues and eating disorders in Hamilton. We became great friends after I started attending the weekly yoga classes at her facility. Another awesome local woman, Sashaina Singh, leads the class and it has been incredible for grounding me and calming my anxious mind. It’s my favourite place to be aside from at home with my cats.

For more from Jaime and Kitties and Cabernet, follow the business on social media!

Social Media Links
Website: kittiesandcabernet.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/kittiesandcabernet
Twitter: Twitter.com/kitties_and_cab
Instagram: Instagram.com/kitties_and_cab

-Heather

SaveSave

Jan10

Katarina Poletto, Chief Dessert Designer & Founder at Dolled Up Desserts

Posted by thegenerator in Uncategorized

Katarina Poletto, Chief Dessert Designer and Founder at Dolled Up Desserts
https://dolledupdesserts.com

Dolled Up Desserts is Hamilton’s award-winning gluten-free and vegan wholesale baking manufacturer. They make simple baking mixes and delicious treats for the not-so-simple diet, so you can enjoy dessert simply. By providing professionally crafted, verified allergen free baking mixes and baked goods, Dolled Up Desserts helps give the power over the enjoyment of baking and food back to people with dietary differences. Confidence is in their cake.

Katarina Poletto began Dolled Up Dessserts through the support of the SBEC Summer Company program (a micro grant and business mentorship program for students 16-29) in the Summer of 2016. In the Fall of 2016, Poletto had planned to attend grad school in Chicago for social work on a scholarship, but with the success of Dolled Up Desserts, Katarina felt she had made a lasting market impression and that the universe was showing her the entrepreneurial path was the way to go. She decided to pursue Dolled Up Desserts full-force.

The products of Dolled Up Desserts can be found in Hamilton (and various cities across the GTA) either as fresh baked goods or as premium baking mixes.

The prepared gluten-free and vegan baked goods can be found at locations like: Durand Coffee, Relay Coffee, The Kitchen Collective, Salty Espresso, The Mustard Seed Co-op, and more!

The gluten-free and vegan premium baking mixes can be found across Hamilton at locations like: Goodness Me!, Real Food Market & Kitchen, The Kitchen Collective, James North General Store, Goats in Motion and The Mustard Seed Co-op (plus locations in Brantford, St. Catharines, Burlington, Mississauga, Guelph, Waterloo, Barrie, Toronto and more)!

We asked Katarina a few questions about being a female entrepreneur. Here’s what she had to say:

Q: Any advice to women starting their own business?:
A: Live your brand. As much as what Dolled Up Desserts creates is incredibly unique and of professional quality, our brand is what builds our tribe. If you do not breathe, love and represent your brand in everything you do, then you will not be memorable amongst the competition, and let me tell you, the competition is FIERCE. I attribute our dedication to brand continuity as a large portion of our success, that and hustle. From the way I dress when I am at a market (victory rolls and a polka dot apron!), to the way we post on social media, to the way we name our products – since we invested (and are still investing) into making our brand genuine, when we put in the work, our brand becomes something people fall in love with instantly. Be confident and believe in your brand. Invest in your brand to be on point, 24/7. It might cost a lot, it might be challenging to maintain (I struggle with brand consistency all the time). Other entrepreneurs, whatever gender, will stand in your shadows if your brand is consistent and genuinely you.

Q: A business tool that you could not live without?:
A: Quickbooks by Intuit has helped me keep track of our growing customer base and their transactions. When I started the business I did all invoicing and client management manually. When it came to tax season, I had to spend extra time organizing my invoices, only then to discover I had clients with overdue invoices. Quickbooks really keeps me and my finances more organized so I can spend more time building my team and growing the business.

Q: Do you have a favourite female-owned business in Hamilton?:
A: Real Food Market in Westdale is hands down one of my favourite female owned and operated Hamilton businesses. I share my time at the Kitchen Collective with their production team most days and nights, so I would consider my team and their team to be friends. Lia, one of the partners and founders of Real Food Market, was the first member at the Collective that I got to know personally and professionally, and she has become a confidant, an advisor, a collaborator, a customer, and above all, a friend to me and my staff. Her partner Shana is a powerhouse and such a kind and smart woman too! I can’t wait to continue working with them in the future and growing our businesses in tandem. I should also mention, their red thai curry is the BEST in the city.

For more from Katarina and Dolled Up Desserts, follow them on social media!
Social Media Links
Website: dolledupdesserts.com
Facebook: @dolledupdessertsbaking
Twitter: @dolledupbaking
Instagram: @dolledupbaking
Youtube (This will be new and big for Dolled Up Desserts in 2018): Search Dolled Up Desserts

-Heather

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Aug15

5 Things To Do In Hamilton This Weekend

Posted by thegenerator in Uncategorized

Millworks Open House (Saturday)

Millworks, the former Valley City property in downtown Dundas, has recently been purchased by Forge and Foster. With a vision to preserve Dundas’ history and grow the downtown downtown core, Millworks is soon to be a thriving hub of community and entrepreneurship.

There will be an Open House on Saturday August 19th from 11-4pm at the Millworks building. Go visit for your chance to have the first view what’s in store for the building, meet the new owners and to contribute your ideas for the future of this piece of Dundas history.

64 Hatt Street, Dundas. 11 – 4PM.

Midsummer’s Dream (Saturday)

A Midsummer’s Dream is one of Canada’s largest colour festivals. Celebrating unity, peace, happiness and joy, it is inspired from the Holi Festival of Colours in India, a Hindu festival that celebrates the renewal of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Each colour symbolizes how people from all over the world can come together and create something beautiful, no matter the background.

Hosted in Gage Park and currently entering its sixth year, A Midsummer’s Dream features colour throwing, live music, a temple of creativity, craft vendors and food vendors. Running from 11AM to 8PM, A Midsummer’s Dream hosts activities for the entire family to enjoy.

Gage Park, Hamilton. 11 – 8PM.

(photo credit: @ihearthamilton)

Merit Milkshake Day (Saturday)

What’s summer without a milkshake? Or… milkshake beers?

Merit Brewing will be hosting a celebration of all things summer; milkshakes, craft beers, and interesting flavours. Why? “Because having fun creating flavourful and interesting beer is worth celebrating, and we want to take the chance to remember all of our favourite things about summers past.” With flavours like Fruit Loop Milkshake IPA, Neopolitan Milkshake Stout, Apple Pie Milkshake Cider and a limited return of Weekends For Breakfast London Fog Milkshake IPA, in addition to some special Milkshake guest taps, you can’t go wrong with putting this event on your to do list.

107 James N, Hamilton. 11:30AM – 2AM.

Cactus Festival (Thursday to Sunday)

The Dundas Cactus Festival is a summer tradition for several Hamiltonians. Occurring every 3rd weekend in August, Cactus Festival attracts visitors from across the country and is the unofficial ‘homecoming’ event for anyone who has lived in the valley town. Cactus Festival continues to evolve and expand, hosting free family fun for 3 days, including 4 entertainment stages, event zones and over 100 street vendors.

This August, the Festival celebrates its forty second year running, making this weekend extra special. Visit http://dundascactusfestival.ca/entertainment-2017/ for scheduling and entertainment details.

King Street, Dundas. Thursday to Sunday.

(photo credit: dundascactusfestival.ca)

HPO Brass Quintet As Part Of Seven Sundays in Gage Park (Sunday)

Unwind after a busy weekend with the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra as part of Seven Sundays in Gage Park. The free, outdoor concert series features the HPO’s Brass Quintet performing classical favourites in the Gage Park Bandshell. Food trucks will be on site from 6PM and the evening will conclude with the start of the Seven Sundays movie series, with a screening starting at dusk.

Get cozy and enjoy an evening of music in one of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in the city.

Gage Park, Hamilton. 6 – 11PM.

-Emily The Generator Intern

Category: Uncategorized

“When I meet new people, or see strangers, I often photograph them in mid sentence. I see a photo in my mind, and cannot settle until I capture it. New people and places inspire me.” – Tara Smith