Do You Need A Business Lawyer? CEO of DLA Piper Bob Bratt May Be Able To Assist You

Starting up a business is rarely a straightforward process, unless you are simply going to be selling products on eBay or Etsy. But even then, depending on the products you're selling and how much income you plan on generating, you may find that even these simple processes are not quite so simple.

For the majority of business startups, there are a lot of tasks to be completed and paperwork to be filled out, especially if you plan on trademarking your business name or forming a corporation. Many owners who are planning on launching a business find that there is one common question: Do I need a business lawyer to assist with starting up my company?

It's More Than Just Recycling: A Lesson In Being A Sustainable Local Business

When our family decided to go into business for ourselves, it was one of the easier decisions that we actually had to make. What came afterwards was the real hard part, between trying to inform and teach our customers, finding the best marketing plan, and the best packaging methods-I felt overwhelmed. Having only 2 years under my belt, I still have a lot to learn. Lately, I have become concerned with how our business is doing on the environmental front. Honestly, we could be doing so much more to lessen our own carbon footprint. This has led to months of research, planning, exchanging of ideas, and beginning stages of implementing a system that will work for us.

While evaluating our business I realized rather quickly that we were wasting a lot of material, especially in the packaging area. I have always taught the kids how important recycling was, how to up-cycle, and how important it was to purchase items locally. We make it to at least three different local Farmers Market's throughout the early spring and summer. The fact that we live near the Twin Cities helps make it possible to put saving resources and purchasing locally at the forefront of our minds. Our local grocery stores have really grasped this concept. So why was I not taking advantage of these potential resources? I have no idea.

My first objective was to research companies that already implemented this idea of lessening the waste output. Rickshaw Bagworks was one of those companies I became very impressed with. This is a company based out of San Francisco that has a small workforce and produces a zero waste products. Impressive right? Did I mention that the material used for these bags are recycled water bottles? Even more impressive!

In the article "Make What You Sell: A New Breed Of Manufacturer" was a statement from that made a real impact for me "We also observe the "KISS" principle: Keep It Super Simple. By making products to order, we can offer a portfolio of bags designed specifically for our own lean manufacturing process. We don't maintain a finished-goods inventory, and our materials are delivered just in time. We keep our supply chain as short as possible, purchasing most materials from American manufacturers and working with local subcontractors who specialize in the few things we don't do ourselves. We also focus on direct sales, as opposed to wholesale, to improve profit margins and support higher costs."

This is the solid business plan that I was looking for. It has the elements that I want to use in our own business. One of the main things that we fight in our small business is that we purchase material that we then have to shelve, it can take some time before we have a customer to be able to use it.

This is when I wanted to learn more and I wanted to take lessons from all the information I could find, so that we could try to recreate a similar plan within our own business. In another article I picked up some great information including these gems "We embrace what I call the "three f's" of sustainable design: form, function, and footprint. We pride ourselves on making high-quality products for long-term, everyday use." and "We also strive to reduce waste in every aspect of our business. To that end, our Zero Messenger Bag collection is designed in a way that lets us use every part of the fabric that we cut to make each bag."

As a result, we eliminate the waste that results from overstocking and disposing of unpopular and seasonal styles. Because most of our business involves selling directly to customers through our online store, rather than through retailers, we have virtually eliminated the need for hang tags and wholesale brochures. We don't send print catalogs to consumers, and our packaging is designed to convey only essential point-of-purchase information, without wasting paper on words that few people ever read"

How simple are those ideas? If your interest is piqued upon hearing about the ZERO waste concept, this very short article can sum it up-"Rickshaw's New Zero Waste Messenger Bag". Another article that I found the above inspiration for can be found within the "How To Build A Sustainable Business"

In my opinion Rickshaw should become the small business model that we all take a good look at. I was amazed that they have few employee's, but offered tours of the small building to see how everything works. I have rarely heard of a business taking the time to "hit the street" to connect with the public-customer or not.

Rickshaw Bagworks: Who We Are from Rickshaw Bagworks on Vimeo.

After looking at the business practices of Rickshaws, I am quick to realize that there are many things that I could be doing to become a better small business. I have been able to lead by example and initiated forming business relationships with local small business owners. While our small business is nothing like Rickshaws customizable bags, the company itself is a rare find. My question to you is are there things that you could do to become more focused on purchasing locally? Did you even realize that purchasing locally goes above and beyond food?




**Our Wolves Den is an affiliate for one or more of the products listed or banners seen on throughout this site. If a product review is written I have either received the product free for compensation for writing the post & reviewing the product, or I received compensation in monetary form for the post. Regardless of that fact Our Wolves Den genuinely expresses our OWN opinions 100%. Our Wolves Den is disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” **

Memorable Wedding Cake Toppers For Your Magical Day!

As I have stated I have made it my mission to give my family members exactly what they have asked for. A beautiful, elegant, and affordable wedding! I have been using Weddingstar for most of my suggestions, I have also been sharing these ideas with you piece by piece.

Weddingstar has been my savior with the amount of inspiring ideas for every aspect of the soon-to-be newlywed couples. I have been a tinge bit jealous that I did not do this for my own wedding.

Every bride or groom-to-be knows that the Wedding Cake Topper is the creme del' a creme of the whole wedding cake experience. Well, I suppose shoving a bit of cake in your loved ones face is memorable too! At least that is something I have heard.

The ceremonial cutting of the cake is always a highlight at any wedding reception. Ensure you'll be ready for that picture-perfect moment with one of Weddingstar's one-of-a-kind wedding cake toppers. Whether you're taking a contemporary approach to your wedding or are more of a traditionalist when it comes to matters of the heart, you'll find the perfect romantic, vintage, monogram or funny wedding cake toppers for you.

Unique Toppers For Wedding Cakes
No matter what kind of couple you happen to be. They also offer an array of ethnic, interchangeable and customizable cake toppers to reflect your special union. Check out their popular vintage-inspired wedding cake toppers like “A Kiss and We're Off” to showcase your fun personality, or choose “The Love Pinch” wedding cake topper to really show off your cheeky side.



Toppers For More Than Just Wedding Cakes
Weddinstar's exclusive cake toppers aren't just for cakes! They can be placed atop cupcake towers, serve as a decoration for your guest book table or even make a great wedding gift! Regardless of where your cake topper goes, it will be sure to infuse your special day and individual personality, and serve as a wonderful memento of your wedding for years to come.


Wedding Cake Toppers That Spare No Details
Their wedding cake toppers are intricately detailed and delicately produced
down to even the finest details. After all, some of the best things in life come in small packages. They design and manufacture all of the wedding cake toppers, so there is no middleman when dealing with Weddingstar. Anything you order is sent directly to you from them. With the support of several thousand retailers, Weddinstar's unique, one-of-a-kind wedding cake toppers are also sold on store shelves around the world.

Cake Toppers For Weddings With A Unique Twist
Weddingstar takes great care in creating wedding cake toppers for all sorts of different wedding themes. If you can dream it up, it’s likely they have a cake topper in store for you. For the sports lover, they've got a variety of unique options such as our very popular Playful Football wedding cake topper and for those creating their wedding around Scotland’s favorite pastime, they're proud to showcase their Golf Fanatic cake toppers.

For those with a playfully rebellious nature, our Motorcycle Get Away Wedding Couple Figurine will be the source of much enjoyment and celebration. If you know you crave a wedding with a twist but aren’t quite sure which theme to choose, take a moment to browse through the entire line of themed wedding cake toppers.

Cake Toppers For The Traditional Wedding
Getting married is an age-old tradition and some choose to incorporate traditional wedding elements into their special day. Weddingstar designed their unique line of traditional wedding cake toppers to help make your cake more elegant, while making a statement reflecting your blessed day!  

Make Your Blessed Day Memorable With A Unique Creative Guest Book

I have been on a wedding kick lately, it has to do with family members asking me to help them with all the planning. I have taken on these projects with a passion, because in all honesty I didn't get the pleasure of having an elaborate wedding, nor was I particularly interested in planning one until AFTER I got married.

I have become almost obsessed with Weddingstar, you have probably been able to tell with my posts lately. It has inspired me with so many beautiful ideas, such as this one for personalized wedding guest books. I never would have thought of this detail had it not been for Weddingstar. Just look at all the options you can choose from, the great and unique ideas! These are only a few from many available on the website and blog.

Wedding guest books are a popular way of creating a cherished memento of you blessed day. Having your family and friends sign your wedding guest book not only creates a record of who was in attendance, but it also allows your guests to share a personal note. With so many elegant and inspired choices available through Weddingstar, there's sure to be no shortage of popular wedding guest book ideas for you to consider.


One fresh idea that's based on a variation of traditional wedding guest books is having your guests sign the framed mat of a photograph. Using the photo or wedding verse of your choice, you can create a unique wedding guest book that's easy to display and enjoy for years to come. Weddingstar even offers an inscribable mat kit that allows your guests to make a permanent etching that won't fade over time. This is just one of many personalized wedding guest book ideas available.


For contemporary or traditional themes, their unique wedding guest books are crafted to the highest standard. With embroidered embellishments, ribbons, or signature patterns, finding the wedding guest books that best reflect your personal style couldn't be easier.


As much as you'll enjoy having one of Weddinstar's unique wedding guest books to remember your special day, your guests are just as likely to enjoy a selection that seems fitting of your personality and style. This is also why personalized wedding guest books are worth considering. Using mementos or special photographs in combination with one of our wedding guest books is an easy way to make the experience more unique.


For more wedding guest book ideas you may want to think about using something a bit different like our Perfect Pair Jar. With individual notes available, your guests can leave you a personal message or wish for your big day. Wedding guest books are more versatile than ever before. Whether using a book, photo mat, jar, or random accessory, personalized wedding guest books go a long way.


As your wedding guest book will probably be one of the first things your guests see as they enter, feel free to get creative – it could set the tone of your event. Take comfort in any selection you make through Weddingstar. Whether you're after one of our more traditional wedding guest books or something more contemporary, it's hard to go wrong. With nostalgia in mind, have fun capturing your memories.

It is wonderful to be able to go through the site and become inspired. You will fall in love with all of the personalized products. You will find the style that represents you!

Weddingstar~ Unique & Personalized Wedding Favors For Your Special Day

Looking for the perfect accents to add to your dream wedding? Weddingstar is a place a soon-to-be bride should start their journey. They offer a fantastic selection of high quality wedding decorations, hundreds of ideas to make your wedding everything that you dreamed of, and personalized just for your taste.

Weddingstar offers:

Personalized Wedding Favors
Weddingstar has fully customizable, ready-made or do-it-yourself options, all of which are a great way to share your favorite sweet treats, memories or hobbies with your guests. Weddingstar stocks everything you need to create a signature look with an enviable array of custom-printed options –from stickers, tags, and paper goodie bags to candy tins, matchbooks, and everything in between.

Practical Wedding Favors
Give your guests a thank-you gift they’ll use time and time again. Weddingstar offers many functional favors that will impress your friends and family, while giving them something they won’t ever want to throw away. Many of their party presents can serve a variety of other functions as well, such as creative additions to your centerpieces or reception table decor.

Affordable Wedding Favors
Weddingstar understands that price is always important when it comes to higher quantities, so most of their offerings are fairly inexpensive. Far from looking cheap, however, at Weddingstar they implement quality detailing, innovation and originality into all of their designs. Even if you’re after a specific look and style, you don’t have to make sacrifices because of cost. Weddinstar's talented team of designers has a knack for creating affordable unique wedding favors that always look more expensive than they are.

Weddingstar's blog "On A Sweet Note Blog" has some wonderful stories, ideas, and tips to make your wedding one of a kind. Some article catagories include; fun wedding ideas, Wedding Themes, Wedding Inspiration, Wedding Tips, and so much more. You could literally spend hours reading through On A Sweet Note Blog.

View Weddingstar's online magazine for 320 pages of beautifully inspired ideas and shocases over 3000 accessories to choose from for your special day! The magazine is full of awe inspired, quality made items to make your wedding day memorable.

Be sure to check out the free templates available. I love the Vintage Lace Seating Chart and the Italian Chest Wishing Well Instruction Guide. You will find these located under the "Help" Tab.



Ways To Connect To Weddingstar and thier fabulous products:

1. Become a Bridal Insider - With Weddingstar's Monthly Newsletter {Includes tips and new arrivals}.

2. Check Them Out On Facebook: See Weddingstar's "Product Of The Week" Selection. Keep up to date on new published blog articles, get tips & tricks from readers, and more.

3. Follow Weddingstar On Twitter: Keep up with announcements of new pictures, stories, or shared ideas.

4. Follow Weddingstar On Pinterest: Look at Delicious Inspiring Wedding Cakes, Wedding Theme Decorations, Wedding Trends of 2012, and much more. I have enjoyed looking through all the catagories. The ideas are amazing and very inspiring, these ideas can be transformed into more than just wedding themes!

 

Business SPOTLIGHT: Bardin Marsee Publishing: Waterproof Bible

In honor of the giveaway that I won on "At the Fence", I figured it was only right to make Bardin Marsee Publishing a "Spotlight Business" post.

Here is a little bit about the company itself:

"The Waterproof Bible and THE OUTDOOR BIBLE originate from our desire to take God's word into all of His creation, regardless of the weather or circumstances. That is why they are completely waterproof, dry quickly, are much stronger than paper, are usable with writing utensils (ball point pen, pencil, or dry highlighter), and adapt well to all extremes or reading environments (on a rainy campout, in a coffee shop, even in a hot tub!). Just as a frog lives on land and in water, the Waterproof Bible and THE OUTDOOR BIBLE thrive in any situation or climate.
As believers in Jesus Christ and a love to be in God's creation and exposed to the elements, we have often desired to have a Bible by our side for reading here and there. Our exploring has led us to mountain tops, river banks, sandy beaches, misty valleys, dark caves, and hot springs, and has caused us to become soaked to the core while backpacking or paddling. I hate to admit that our Bible has not made it with us on many of these occasions for the sake of protecting it and because we don't trust a plastic bag not to puncture. Now we can put an end to all the worrying that we have done in the past about our Bibles and take God's Word wherever our adventures lead.
Wherever life takes you - carry the Waterproof Bible or THE OUTDOOR BIBLE and Be Inspired. Anywhere."



*Below is a picture of the items that I recieved with my giveaway win of a $40.00 Giftcard.*

Bardin Marsee Publishing has a nice assortment of Waterpoof Bibles, as well as accessories, appearal, and much more. Most of you know that I am trying to get the biggest "bang" for my buck and that was very easy to do while shopping their website.

I chose the bibles from their clearance section of the website- which only meant that they may have flaws, dings, and whatnot. I happen to be the kind of person that does not need to have my items in perfect condition, most of the things I buy are for the kids. The kids are hardly going to be able to keep their things in prestine condition, so this makes it much easier to shop deals.

The three devotional books called "Adventure's God's Country" is 31 outdoor devotionals. These were thrown in free because of a promotion Bardin Marsee is having when you buy a Bible you get the devotional for free.

Now, mind you I have not tested these by submerging them in any kind of liquid, but this is because they are being saved for gifts to three of my kids before they head off to bible camp in a few months. I am anxiously awaiting their trip now, I really am interested in how the Bibles and the Devotionals hold up. I am sure that they will be tested to the fullest extent while on a week-long stay in the woods of Minnesota. The only thing I do worry about is because of all the mosquitos and horsefly's, will these books hold up to NOT being carried off by the bugs or worse fall apart after being used as a "swatter".

Like I mentioned, my kids have no intentions of keeping their belongings in prestine condition. I will do a update as to how well these hold up to the trip.

If you have any free-time please stop by their website-here

Or Facebook

Or Follow them on Twitter

Business Spotlight: Introducing TINY TILLIA

A little history behind the company

Necessity is the mother of all invention - and Tiny Tillia is no different. Tiffany Lerman founded the company in 2006, when her youngest son was just a baby. After searching high and low for a bath and body line that was not only safe and effective but a pleasure to use, she decided to use her imagination and create something entirely unique.

As the daughter of best-selling author Jackie Collins, Tiffany had a knack for storytelling that came in handy during the creation of the Tiny Tillia brand. Determined to design a line that conjured up an entire universe of fun and adventure for babies, she decided to invent Tiny Tillia, a magical place filled with adorable characters that would inspire babies and toddlers to fall in love with bath time.

In 2006, she introduced a collection of eight bath and body items that took the baby world by storm. The products were snapped up faster than stores could stock them and became a favorite with the Hollywood A-list, inspiring Tiffany to dream of expanding the brand to include clothing, bedding and toys. So when Avon called and offered Tiffany the opportunity to do just that, she jumped at the chance.

Tiny Tillia offers much more than clothes from 0-4T. They offer a fantastic selection of bathtime, playtime, accessories, nursery decor, diaper bags, and much more.

Here are some of the NEW selections now available!

Pack and Ride in Blue or Pink

ON SALE FOR $19.99

Reg. $25.00

When the weather turns cool, don’t leave home without the Tiny Tillia Pack and Ride. Cuddle your little charge in a soft, cozy bunting made of weather-resistant nylon on the outside and polyester on the inside. The cover rolls up and zips into a pouch for optimum portability. Fits infant car seats, standard strollers and joggers. Machine washable.

Can be personalized with up to 25 characters for $4.50.

My First Backpack

With adjustable straps and a spacious inner and outer compartment, these adorable 11" L x 11" H x 4" D My First Backpacks will have your tots heading out in style and comfort. Polyester and nylon; plastic zipper.

Floral Rain Boot

ON SALE FOR $19.99

Reg. $25.00

With playful prints, a trendy mid-calf style, and a rubber upper and sole to keep the rain away. Soft jersey lining.

Here are only a few of my favorites-there is just so many that I love from this line:

Tiny Tillia Bath Mitts

Never a dull moment! Bring Tiny Tillia to life with these soft terry bath mitts –gentle on baby’s skin and great fun for the imagination. (Baby talk not included!) 8.5" x 9". Machine washable.

Changer On the Go - Blue Florette

Why bring the kitchen sink when you’re only running out for a bit? The clutch-sized Changer On the Go is 11" x 7" folded and expands into a 40" x 20" changing pad. Includes a 8.5" x 3.5" insulated bottle holder as well as a 3" x 4" pacifier holder. Made of man-made materials.

Ben Giraffe Raincoat

Made of water-resistant microfiber, the hooded raincoats feature reflective tape for visibility and Tiny Tillia friend Ben Giraffe peeking out of pockets. Polyester. Machine washable.