by Donna Maria on January 24, 2010
It’s Sunday! That means it’s time for Sunday Soup!! Sunday Soup is a new feature here at my blog where you can post questions in the comments, and I will answer them. Even better, you can answer each other using the Disqus threaded comments!
So what do you want to talk about? Being a wife and/or mom in business? How to use social media? The best blogging platform? Leadership? Starting a beauty business? New books you are reading? (My latest is below.)
Let’s talk and share in today’s Sunday Soup!! So meaty!
Sunday Soup Photo: 
by Donna Maria on January 13, 2010
One of the first things I did when I launched IBN in 2000 was create a branded logo so members could easily share their IBN affiliation with customers, stockists and other stakeholders. As the leader of a nationwide trade organization, I have always felt that it is important to provide business member leaders with an easy way to identify their association with IBN, which is dedicated to service, professionalism and consistency.
It’s hard to believe, but in a few days, we will celebrate IBN’s 10th year serving the small and independent beauty community. Our members proudly make soaps, cosmetics, candles, aromatherapy products, fragrances, jewelry, confectionery items and all kinds of health, beauty and lifestyle products. Pictured above is IBN’s new 2010 member logo. (Members: scroll to the bottom of this post for instructions on downloading the logo!) For those who don’t know, IBN launched on January 16, 2000 as the “Handmade Toiletries Network.” This post shares a bit about how it evolved from there. Read A Little Indie History
by Donna Maria on January 2, 2010
Blogging has enhanced my life in numerous ways. I love sharing my ideas and experiences at the same time as I chronicle my growth as a woman and a business leader. But even more than that, this blog is a great way to meet and connect with the wonderful people (you!!) who take time from their busy schedules to read my posts and share their thoughts and ideas.
This is a list of what I call “The Best of Indie Business 2009.” It’s compiled based on the posts that generated the largest number of comments, links and retweets, and in one case, a post I just like a lot. As I prepare to celebrate 10 years in business (and almost that long as a blogger), I want to thank you for allowing me to interact with you here and at your blogs in 2009. I look forward to even more in 2010! Get the Best of Indie Business 2009!
by Donna Maria on December 24, 2009
For the past few years, I have enjoyed “elfing myself.” Each year, it’s more fun and interactive. If you’re looking for quick and fun way to generate more holiday laughs, check out Elf Yourself and have some fun! My kids and I made this video and they can’t stop laughing. I hope the same thing happens to you! Smile, have fun and enjoy this wonderous time of year!!
(If you are reading this post via email or in an RSS reader and cannot see the video, click here.)
by Donna Maria on December 17, 2009
Last year, I met Leesa Barnes, author of Podcasting for Profit.
Leesa graciously accepted my invitation to be a guest on my radio show, and you can stream or download the interview with here. (Jamila White hosted that show for me while I was away speaking at a conference.) While I hope to meet Leesa in person one day, for now, I am delighted to accept her invitation to join the faculty of her 2010 Social Media Telesummit!
Like Leesa’s past Telesummits, this one promises to be engaging, fun and informative! Other faculty members include PR strategist Shannon Cherry, social media devotee Nancy Marmolejo and many more! Continue Reading…
by Donna Maria on November 27, 2009
I am pleased to announce IBN’s first online Indie Site Party on Monday, November 30 — Cyber Monday — at Noon New York time!! Our first party will be hosted at our social networking site and will feature IBN member Charlene Sevier, The Bead Dreamer, of Newport News, Virginia. Indie Site Parties are just like home parties, only online. They are designed to make it fun and easy for you to meet and learn from an Indie Business artist or crafter “up close and personal.” As you can see from the graphic below, you’ll be able to call in from the comfort of your home or office and enjoy the party via conference call.
You’ll also be able to log onto a website (instructions shown in the graphic) where you’ll enjoy Charlene’s one-on-one attention as she presents her jewelry to you and shares exciting information about her business. You’ll also enjoy a 25% discount on all items purchased during the hour-long party! Our parties make shopping fun, informative and entertaining! Meet with the designer one-on-one and get your questions answered about her work before you buy! Continue Reading…
