The Biz

Everybody likes to hear inspirational stories about a small business owner’s rise to success. An everyday Joe or Jane has an idea that turns into a full-fledged enterprise with thousands if not millions of units sold each year. While these upbeat overviews make readers feel good, they often don’t tell the whole story of the climb to the top, which can include failed prototypes, brutal schedules, financial difficulties, and all the other not-so-pretty aspects of being a new business owner. Sometimes, an entrepreneur finds that her business has become dormant and needs a complete re-start. That was the case for the owner of children’s clothing company Plum Pudding.

Cindy Cohn understands how much one meaningful gift can affect someone’s life. When she was 11 years old, Cindy received a gift of a shirt with her name spelled out in cute, colorful characters across the front. It quickly became one of her favorite possessions. Decades later, she still owns that shirt, and cites it as the inspiration for her company, Poseys People in Poses. The company, casually known as Poseys, offers a wide selection of keepsake apparel and accessories with unique, personalized touches. These t-shirts, pullover shirts, pillow cases and canvas bags are meant to reflect the hobbies and interests of the owner.

So you’ve hired a PR/marketing firm, and you’re eager to see your company shine like the sun — great! But have you really fulfilled your end of the deal to ensure this is even tangible? What many businesses don’t realize is that in order to really get the bang for the buck with a PR/marketing firm, you have to equip the firm with tools and resources that will allow them to succeed in providing your business with lucrative results. Here are three fantastic tips that will ensure businesses get the most out of their firm…

If you are the mom of a tween-aged daughter, you will appreciate how difficult it can be to shop for clothing. The changes that take place in a girl’s body at this important age can make beachwear in particular a challenge, especially with the self-consciousness and awkwardness that can be hallmarks of these transitional years. If this is an issue, for your retail customers, check out the Squirtini Bikini swimwear line. This line can take the stress out of choosing swimsuits for both parent and daughter.