A lot has been written lately about how we are losing an element of style and grace in our culture and in our fashion. I blame a great deal of it on the advent of reality television. We were suddenly watching families squabble and people talking about remarkably personal things...
Joy. It's one of those things that everyone defines differently. For some, joy is spending time with family and friends. For others it's doing extravagant things. For others it's doing something that they really love. Put me in that last category. I've led an extraordinary life. Born in the Midwest,...
When I started Island Contessa, I wanted to make it a successful business-no question about that. I had spent most of my professional career in successful businesses but I realized that I also wanted to do more. I wanted (and still do) to leave the world in a better place...
I'm an unabashedly proud American. I was born and raised in the heartland and I've spent time all over the US (college in Texas and work in NY). At last count, I think I've been to almost all 50 states. So, my patriotism, I wear a bit on my sleeve...
Mother's Day has become a bit hard for me. I lost my mother 17 years ago and it has never quite been the same since. I have found for women who have lost their mothers at a young age (me) or whom were especially close to their mothers (also me),...
I am a very lucky woman. I have had several careers over the course of my life, which, now, is not so unusual. I've had a chance to stretch my mind and skills at every turn--from Marketing manger to Caterer to consultant to Politician to Banker and now Fashion Designer. ...
So, here we go! I've been talking for some time about the new website. Today is the day. While my crowdfunding campaign goes on, we are launching today so you can begin to see the new line items, SHOP and start giving me feedback. The website is not 100% yet...
I read recently where asking for help was more difficult for people than delivering bad news. Given a choice between telling someone something that would negatively impact them or asking for help; most people would choose the former over the latter. Put me in that category. It has always been...
This is my friend, Danielle. Danielle is not a professional model (although she's cute enough to be one) but I happen to be the lucky recipient of her friendship. When I wanted to shoot my new designs and I needed models, she was one of the first to say, 'yes'. ...
This is a big week for me. A lot of what I have been working on behind the scenes will start coming to fruition this week but only if I can continue to get support from family (and their friends) and friends (and their friends). I have been so LUCKY...
