Making Money Without Losing Your Integrity

Hi lovelies,

I recently wrote an article on Insights for Launching Your Own Site, so I figured the logical follow-up would be to share some key strategies to making money off of the content that you create. Making money and losing sight of your creativity and integrity do not have to go hand-in-hand. The trick is to implement a few key tips and tricks while staying true to yourself.

Money-making Strategy #1: Affiliate links

Partnering with brands and companies that offer affiliate programs is a great way to earn some extra income. Commission-based affiliate programs works in a way that if one of your readers clicks on a link on your site and then purchases a product from your affiliate partner, then you make a percentage of the sale.

There is also click-through affiliate programs (my personal favorite kind) that pay you if a reader simply clicks on an affiliate link on your site. My recommended affiliate programs are: ShopSense by ShopStyle, Amazon Associates, and Cityblis.

Money-making Strategy #2: Sponsored posts

Once you have your site up and going and start garnering some traction, brands and publicists may start to approach you to post articles, ones that you write, or an advertorial, an article that they write, for you to post on your site for a fee. The trick here is to have in place a pricing structure – do you charge per word? Per image? Will you also share on your social channels? How much is that worth?

But remember, it’s best to partner with brands and companies that you actually know, trust, and would use yourself. It’s not worth that extra income to lose the trust of your readers to push brands just for the sake of pushing them. You want your readers to respect your voice, taste, and style. Also be sure to be transparent that the post is a sponsored post.

Money-making Strategy #3: Consulting

One tip I learned while attending the Independent Fashion Blogger and Crossroads From Closet to Career Conference is the power of the reverse pitch. If brands and publicists are pitching their products and services for you to post on your site but you can identity new and better ways for the brands to market themselves, then pitch them on hiring you as a marketing, styling, and/or digital consultant. Brands are willing to shell out the big bucks if you can add value to their marketing efforts.

The true beauty about all of these money-making strategies is that YOU are in control. You make your own schedule and you decide which brands, products, and services to publish and promote on your site. Stay true to your brand and your readers will stay true to you.

For more money-making tips and tricks follow @candywashington and if you found any of these strategies of value be sure to share with your friends and comment below! What are you going to start doing today to start making more money?

Get Italian Inspired Lips by Milani

Hi lovelies,

I just got the scoop on Milani Cosmetic Color Statement Lipstick! Check out the details below!

Although you might not be able to make it to Italy this summer, there’s no reason why you can’t rock these lip looks inspired by some of our favorite cities. Look like a local with Milani Cosmetics Color Statement Lipstick ($5.49 each) without ever stepping foot in the foreign country.

Modeling in Milan
Known as one of the fashion capitols of the world, Milan will inspire you to strut your stuff and get in-tune with the season’s hottest trends. Feel like a model in Milan with Color Statement Lipstick in Rose Hip, a bold and bright on-trend color for the summer season.

A Roman Classic
Modern-day Rome juxtaposes the rich history and tradition of ancient Rome with the contemporary urban style of its locals. What better place to try Color Statement Lipstick in High Voltage, offering a modern twist on a classic red shade.

Very Venice
The locals of Venice are relaxed, romantic and creative. Color Statement Lipstick in Plumrose is a passionate and easy-going color, featuring a subtle rose hue perfect to set sail in a gondola down the winding canals with your love.

Fabulous in Florence
​Florence, a city filled with priceless art and statues from the likes of Michangelo put you in touch with your artistic side. Be inspired to experiment with shades like this bright hue, Color Statement Lipstick in Violet Volt.

Colorful Capri 
Let this beachy island bring out your getaway persona. Once the sun goes down, add a touch of tropical glamour to your outfit with Color Statement Lipstick in Sweet Nectar, a citrusy hue that pops perfectly against a golden tan.

ELEQT, the luxury online social discovery network, to launch in Mexico at the prestigious The St. Regis Mexico City

ELEQT, the luxury online social discovery network, to launch in Mexico at the prestigious The St. Regis Mexico City

Friday, August 15th, 2014:// ELEQT, a global leader in exclusive social networking for people who discover life in style, today announced its launch in Mexico. After having previously launched in Amsterdam, Beijing, Dubai, Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles, New York, São Paulo, and Singapore a.o., ELEQT continues its push into Latin America with the Grand Launch in Mexico on the 28th of August at the ballroom at the prestigious The St. Regis Mexico City.

ELEQT is an exclusive social discovery network for trendsetters in style and business. ELEQT brings privacy, trust and relevance back to social networking by offering a trusted platform, via www.eleqt.com, on which members can connect with their peers around the world and discover fascinating people to meet, things to do, places to go, trends to follow and thoughts shared. ELEQT also hosts dozens of exclusive member-only events around the world and online.

During the Mexico launch event, guests will be able to enjoy complimentary premium spirits and hors d'oeuvres, all the while socializing with thought leaders and influential figures. The evening will create an ideal platform for guests to mix with like-minded and fellow style & business enthusiasts whilst celebrating the world of luxury lifestyle. Attending guests will become founding members of ELEQT in Mexico and together with them ELEQT will shape the ELEQT community and event calendar in their city.

“We are proud to debut the ELEQT brand in Mexico City with an exclusive grand launch event at The St. Regis Mexico City,” said Ruud Smeets, CEO and Founder of ELEQT Ltd. “Latin America has been a fast-growing market for us. We are excited to launch in Mexico and we see tremendous promise in developing the market, as well as partnering with local organizations. The initial response we have received so far has been very encouraging and we’re looking forward to reaching a wider audience and further strengthening our presence in the region. Together with our partners at The St. Regis Mexico City and Ferrari Mexico, we will create a launch to remember.”

ELEQT’s CCO and Founder, Ronald de la Fuente-Saez, will be in attendance at the event. “A lot of people have been asking when ELEQT would make its move to Mexico, and we are thrilled to finally be able to make this announcement. Only a select number of ELEQT members and other privileged guests are welcome to join our strictly invitation-only event, and they can expect an evening of suspense and special effects.”

Earlier this year, ELEQT launched in Beijing and Boston. The company is committed to rolling out ELEQT to more and more world capitals and cities in the months ahead to ensure people can access the online network for recommendations, tips and advice regarding trends and lifestyle from fellow professionals all around the globe. ELEQT is investing heavily in its network, and is continually upgrading its online community to better serve its members and partners.

LA Fashion Market: Breakout Fashion Brands

Hi lovelies,

Enjoy my recap of LA Fashion Market for Fashion Edits! Happy shopping and styling. 

It's that time of the year, fashion trade shows and market season leading up to the big runway shows and fashion weeks. LA Fashion Market was ready to get into the fashion game even though the general vibe of the trade shows this year was a bit lackluster. Designers and boutiques are still struggling to stay afloat during the aftermath of the economy's downturn and competing with the attention of buyers and press since New York's FFANY trade shows just so happens to coincide with this year's LA Fashion Market, competition was fierce.

But don't count out LA Fashion Market just yet, Fashion Edits was able to discover the break-out brands this season, both emerging and established, so check out our picks below for what to stock your stores and closet with during the hottest fashion season of the year.

Emblex Imports: For the customer looking for the perfect glam, night-time, and dressier look

Emblex Imports is unique because its line is actually composed of three to four different emerging designers that contribute to the overall look of the collection. Our picks are the matching sequined skirts and jackets that come in both white and black and gold, price points for the skirts are $39 and for the jackets $59. For a dressy yet casual look, opt for the long tulle skirts in champagne, at a $29 price point, and in its holiday look in black with gold and silver additions, at a $39 price point. For a night out on the town, we love the silver sequined jacket, a $55 price point, and the black sequined jacket with detailed boxes, at a $89 price point. The collection also includes silk bias-cut dresses with intricate beading starting at a $39 price point.

Mary J: For the casually chic customer

If your target customer loves to look chic and stylish yet comfortable and sophisticated then stock your shelves with Mary J. Mary J. has been a private label designer for stores like Neiman Marcus and brings a simple elegance to her pieces by using a novelty knit and merrow edge design. We love the grey halter top that works for both day and night and starts at a $31 price point. Add a jacket for $42, a skirt for $38, a V-neck top for $29, and additional tops for $21. All pieces are locally designed and manufactured in Los Angeles.

Sho Sho Fashions: For the hipster customer

Tribal looks, animals prints, and funky designs are all the rage this season. If your customer is trendy, youthful, and likes to rock the hipster look, then pick up some printed leggings from Sho Sho Fashions. Some of the leggings have fleece lining for added comfort and other are poly lined for added breathability. We love the owl prints, tribal prints, black with gold zippers, and plaid prints. The leggings retail for $8-20.

Blowfish Malibu: For the customer that loves shoes

We fell in love with Blowfish Malibu's top-seller that is appropriately called, “Granola.” It's a comfy sandal that is designed with faux-leather straps and comes in dark brown with a price point of $30. Our other pick is a strappy high-ankle sandal that comes in what is called “delicious PU” and is super comfy with padding. It comes in black, chocolate, and crème and starts at a $39 price point. It's printed lace-up sneaker was also a stand-out look for this season.

Nina Field: For the special and social occasion customer

Nina Field's iconic wedding dresses are perfect for destination weddings when you need something extra special and if you prefer a more glamorous, vintage look. Our pick for her stand-out piece is a Mother-of-the-Bride white dress with tulle shoulders and embellishments. The look also comes in bronze which is our preferred color of choice. The two-piece look with a lace bustier and skirt is also our editor's pick and comes in black as well.

MimiGi: For the comfy and cool customer

If your customer loves yoga, running around town while looking effortless cool and stylish, then MimiGi has the looks you need to satisfy your customer's needs. All of the pieces are locally made in Los Angeles and our picks are the gaucho pants and comfy tops with chiffon back embellishments that come in green, black, blue, red, and taupe colorways starting at $24 price points. She also designs a tie-dye top that also comes in array of colors with a back embellishment starting at a $26 price point.

If you're heading to the WWIN trade shows at the Rio, we suggest you stop by Doris Johnson at booth #433, showing from August 18-21st, and can also be found at suite #A380 in the California Market Center, Monday-Friday. Be sure to check out the Dora John silk skullies starting at $20 price points without the flower additions and $29 price points for the flower embellishments. 

Interview: Emerging jewelry designer Anny Stern for Fashion Edits

Hi lovelies,

I hope you enjoy my interview with emerging jewelry designer Anny Stern for Fashion Edits!  

Fashion Edits talks with emerging jewelry designer, Anny Stern, on where she draws her inspiration from for her designs, and how her Brazilian heritage is one of her biggest creative assets. The designer is known for using bright colors, semi-precious stones, and adding her unique take on each piece.

Fashion Edits: Hi Anny, what was your inspiration behind creating your jewelry collection?

Anny Stern: Hi Candy, this is not a simple question to answer, but let me try.I was always fascinated and enchanted by the energy, beauty and uniqueness of the semi-precious stones. I look at them and we kind of have a “conversation,” it is as if they have a voice and tell me what they want to be.

In addition to that, a creative mind never stops! Everything around can inspire, it can be a color combination on a candy box (it happened yesterday) or a raindrop on a leaf, or anything else around.

I always have my cellphone with me, I use its camera all the time registering what talks to my soul, what catch my eyes, what makes me smile.

In sum, behind every single piece it is emotion! It is love! It is happiness! It is life…!

FE: What has been some of your most memorable moments designing the line?

AS: I live life intensely, I try to make every moment as memorable as it can be. The same it is with my work, every piece that gets ready is a reason to celebrate, every new element incorporated makes a difference. The creation process is memorable by itself because it is an expression of a “gift,” I really do not know how it happens it just does and this is the most memorable thing always!

FE: How do you incorporate your Brazilian heritage into your jewelry line?

AS: Through colors, warmness, happiness, and elements that brings the Brazilian vibe! I simply put my heart and soul on every single creation.

FE: What are your favorite items in the collection?

AS: You are asking a mother which son is her favorite, but what I like the most is combining pieces, mix and match, playing with colors and textures.

FE: What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs looking to pave their own way in the fashion industry?

AS: Love what you do with determination and professionalism. However, always be open to learn with who was on this path before you.

FE: What are a few items every girl should make sure to have in her closet?

AS: Every girl should have on her closet a piece that makes her feel powerful! Something that illuminates even the cloudiest day. Something that makes her smile and her eyes shine.

I am pretty sure that a piece of ANNY STERN Fashion Jewelry can do that.

But if I can give an advice I would say, “Do not save things for a special day, make today a special one!”

FE: What's next for you and your designs?

AS: I prefer to reveal it little by little…so every day I can have a good surprise for you and my customers!

How to Build Your Empire: The Waiting Game

Hi lovelies,

It's happened to all of us, landing an awesome meeting that could potentially lead to realizing one of your ultimate goals. Awesome, right? The meeting went well, you did your follow-up, and now, you wait.

The tick-tock of the clock, every beep of my cell phone, every email, I hold my breath and say a little prayer and hope it’s them. Alas, a week has passed, and in the normal world, that’s not a lot of time, but in the entertainment world, that’s a lifetime. I haven’t heard no, but I haven’t heard yes. Dealing with the waiting, the unknown, the never hearing back, and the “rejection,” can be tough for any creative professional.

So when the waiting game weighs you down, follow my steps below to make it through those uncertain times.

Step #1: Allow yourself to be happy. Sometimes I don’t allow myself to be happy when a great opportunity arises because I’m scared of jinxing it or what if it doesn’t work out in my favor? But I have to remind myself that I have to be happy during the pursuit of my goals and that I earned these benchmarks of success. Getting “there” is not guaranteed and I owe it myself to stay open, positive, and happy while on the journey of realizing my dreams.

Step #2: Allow yourself to be sad and hurt. It’s ok to throw yourself a pity party if you don’t book that golden role or if you don’t hear back from that dream job meeting you had. For one minute.For one minute wallow it, cry, eat some ice cream, boo and hiss. Then wipe away your tears because it’s time to move on. Booking the job is out of your control – so why should you feel bad about yourself? I know we are human and it’s hard not to personalize these “rejections” but usually the reason why you don’t get the role has nothing to do with you. Let it out and then take your power back.

Step #3: Remember to be grateful. Remember to come from a place of gratitude that you are on the pursuit of realizing your ultimate goals. How many actors and other creative professionals would kill just to “get in the room”? There’s “no there, there” – all that we have is the here and the now. So be happy and grateful for each little victory. Just being committed to living the life you were meant to lead means that you’ve already won.

Step #4: Celebrate. Whether or not the phone rings with that dream job confirmation, celebrate. Celebrate your self. Celebrate the pursuit. Celebrate that you are one step closer to realizing your dreams. Celebrate the opportunity.

Step #5: Take action. Sometimes after not booking that dream job even though I kicked butt in the audition or in the meeting, I get stagnant, paralyzed in my “woe is me” moment. But I pick myself up, realize how lucky I am, stand firm in gratitude, celebrate myself, and then I take action. I follow up with leads and contacts, I self submit, I go for a run, I seek support from my friends, I do something that inspires me and makes me happy. Soon you’ll be too busy celebrating and taking meaningful action in your life to worry about any email or phone call.

What step can you take today to put the joy back into your pursuit and take ownership over “the waiting game”?

Found this article helpful? Share it with your friends, comment below, and tweet @candywashington.

Interview: Theresa Roemer’s Featured on Good Morning America

Hi lovelies,

Theresa Roemer's 3,000 square ft., $500k closet that she uses to raise funds for charitable causes was featured on Good Morning America, watch the segment here and read below for our exclusive interview with philanthropic fashionista.

Candy Washington: What was your inspiration behind creating the She Cave?

Theresa Roemer: My inspiration came from wanting to create the perfect “retreat” for me and my girlfriends to hang out in and fundraise in.

CW: What has been some of your most memorable moments in the closet?

TR: Fundraising for the American Heart Association with Killian Hennessey.

CW: How do you use the She Cave as a way to give back through charity?

TR: Have events in the She Cave to raise money for different charities. Donate items from the closet.

CW: What are your favorite items in the She Cave?

TR: My Christian Louboutin collection, Antique Indian ceremonial bracelets given to me from my Father-in-law.

CW: What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs looking to pave their own way?

TR: Just do it!! Reach for the stars, the sky is the limit. There is no one standing in the way of your success but you.

CW: What are a few items every girl should make sure to have in her closet?

TR: Champagne, great shoes and great accessories.

CW: What’s next for you and the She Cave?

TR: Lots of fundraising, lots of memories and maybe there is another LARGE She Cave in the future!!!

More info on Theresa and her closet:

Houston, TX - July 23, 2014 - Business philanthropy expert and CEO Theresa Roemer was featured on Good Morning America twice this week because she owns a 3,000 square foot, $500,000, three story closet- the largest in America! The closet was built to have a unique space to host charity fundraisers and the higher end items are rotated out weekly as donations and as raffle items at fundraising events.

As an entrepreneur and self-made millionaire by the time she was 38, Theresa built a line of fitness clubs, which she has since sold. Now, the CEO of several small businesses, including a fashion line launching in the fall, Theresa’s passion is in giving back. “Personally, it’s my SHE CAVE. Men have a MAN CAVE, so why can’t a woman have a SHE CAVE? This is my special space. I meditate, cry if I’m upset, pray, read, relax, visit with close or special friends, and if you can fit in to my size 6, shoes 9, by all means have a blast. Professionally, You get a lot more RSVPs on a fundraising invitation that reads “Join us in Theresa Roemer’s closet” than XYZ Country Club. The charities and individuals I work with on a regular basis know me and know that they may contact me any time to host a function here. But as a business philanthropist, any company can contact me to arrange a charity event and possibly use my closet”, says Theresa.

It’s not only Theresa’s space that will make any woman jump for joy, but the collection of fashion is enough to make the Carrie Bradshaw in us all swoon. The designer labels are endless and the designer signs many of the shoes on the sole. Visiting the space is nothing short of a dream, but more importantly the charity events held inside support reputable organizations that make the dreams come true of those in need.

Tea with Candy: How to start a blog and keep it fresh

Hi lovelies,
If you're interested in starting a blog or if you already have one and want to add some life back into it, then check here are my 5 easy ways to start a blog and keep it fresh.

Tip #1: Write about what you love and what you are passionate about. 

For me, this makes creating content easy and fun. I'm more inclined to spend my time, energy, and focus, writing and talking subjects that I'm naturally drawn to and enjoy.

Tip #2: Create an editorial calendar.

I'm a firm believer that if it isn't scheduled, then it isn't real. I don't spend a ton of time on the blog, but the time that I do spend is focused and purposeful. So I set time certain times a week to write, do videos, and share on social media. I use a separate calendar to keep myself on track.

Tip #3: Diversify your content.

In addition to writing blog posts, I love to add in other forms of media and content. This also entices my readers to share my posts. My favorites things to include are:

• Pictures and images
• Video
• Q&A's
• Guest blog posts
• Lists 

Tip #4: Use a platform that is easy to manage and looks professional.

There are a lot of different platforms that you can use out there to create blogs and websites. It doesn't have to be expensive but it should look professional and represent your personal brand in the best way.

I recommend:

• Squarespace
• WordPress
• Blogger
• Tumblr

Tip #5: Promote, market, repeat.

I share my posts across all of my social channels and I share them often. But make sure you space out your posts on you social channels so it doesn't come across as spam. I also read other blogs, comment on them, and engage with other blogging networks.

Comment below on how you are going to start blogging and keep it fresh and don't forget to share with your friends. Follow @candywashington for tips. 

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Mid-summer fashion finds: SpottedOnCeleb, UrbanCode, Hoochie Mama, and Pounce Underwear

Hi lovelies,

Summer is in full swing and wanted to share these hot new looks from Spottedonceleb.com, urbancode, Hoochie Mama, and Pounce Underwear. I'm kind obsessed with the gold clutch from urbancode!

Enjoy and stay cool!

Tea with Candy: NYC vs. LA: Dating, fashion, street meat cravings, and more!

I'm officially a Cali girl now, but I'm still a New Yorker at heart. Watch me riff on dating, fashion, street meat cravings, and more!