The cell phone has quickly become one of the most important communication devices of this century. It seems as if we all have one, everywhere you go someone is talking on a cell phone, whether it’s at the mall, the park, or on the road. And with such a huge market inevitably follows the endless supplies of accessories to go along with the product. For the typical cell phone owner there are three essential must have accessories. After reading this article you will be fully aware of what you need to have and why concerning your cell phone. Not only will these items enhance your cell phone use enjoyment but will also help to protect you, your phone and others around you especially when you’re driving.
The first must-have accessory you need to get is a car charger. Yes there will be many times when you forget to plug your phone in overnight and realize on your way to the office or to school that your battery has mere seconds of life left, then you will be cut off from all communication as you know it! These chargers typically range from ten to twenty dollars and will fully charge your battery in under an hour. Sometimes if you’re lucky you will receive one with your phone upon purchase but don't count on it. A must-have for every cell phone owner out there.
The second must-have accessory is the headset. Yes now you can actually drive and talk without being the cause of a major accident. The headset also comes in handy around the house. Talk to mom while you’re doing the dishes or raking the lawn. There are a variety of headsets out there and if your phone has Bluetooth capabilities then you will be able to get a wireless set up which is a pretty slick way to go. Most of the newer cell phones coming out have this technology so that might be something to look for if you’re in the market for a new phone.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Make Your Own Cell Phone Cover
Cell phones aren't cheap but they are easily damaged. That's why it's important to have a cell phone cover to prevent nicks and scratches. No matter what your cell phone looks like it's easy to make a cover for it by simply cutting some fabric and stitching it together.
Most people purchase cell phone covers that are made from vinyl. You can choose vinyl for your own cell phone cover or go with a fabric that's a little jazzier. Whatever fabric you choose it'll be easier to make the cover, and have it fit correctly, if you use a fabric that has a little stretch to it.
You'll also need a piece of clear plastic. The plastic needs to be thick enough to protect the phone without being so thick that it's difficult to sew. Find the plastic you need at a home improvement store.
The first thing you need to do is take measurements of your phone. Start by measuring from the top of the screen to just under the last row of numbers. Also measure the width of the phone. Cut these measurements from the clear plastic. Now measure from the top of the screen, up and over the top of the phone, to about a third of the way down the back of the phone. Measure the width as well and cut this piece from vinyl. Measure from just under the last row of numbers, around the bottom of the phone, and up to the top back portion of the phone. Cut this piece from vinyl.
Stitch the plastic piece and the bottom vinyl piece together. Stitch the top piece onto the top of the plastic piece. Stitch a velcro dot or strip onto the underside of the top edge piece that wraps around to the back. Stitch another piece of velcro onto the top back portion of the vinyl. Now you should have a piece that surrounds the phone and fastens in the back, but doesn't have the sides yet.
How to Choose a Practical Cell Phone Plan
There are so many cell phone plans everywhere that choosing the best one for your needs can be pretty confusing. Some of us are easily enticed by the many features of a particular plan, like loads of free call minutes and text messages, free Internet browsing and downloading up to a certain number of kilobytes, and others. However, are all these free stuff really necessary? And, well, are they really free?
Some cell phone plans boast of hundreds of free minutes for $40 a month. But if you're a student and rarely makes calls except to chat for 5 minutes with friends or call your parents that you're coming home late, do you really need, say, 400 minutes of free calls monthly?
If you're an executive whose work nature involves lengthy phone-based negotiations and constant reminders to the secretary, then perhaps this is the cell phone plan for you. You might even need a higher deal. The point is, don't get blinded by the "free" labels; because, technically, the more the "free" stuff are, the more expensive the plans become.
Also, a cell phone plan also usually comes with a free phone unit; and the monthly rate is often affected by what type of phone this is, too. If you're getting a high-end phone with your cell phone plan, you have to be prepared to pay a bit more than if you get just a unit that is able to call or text. But, hey, if you have a handset that has a 2-megapixel camera, as is the trend nowadays, there's really nobody stopping you.
Will you be using the cell phone plan alone, or are you going to let the rest of the family use it, as well? There are so-called family plans that bundle the free calls and text messages a group of people can use under just one bill. These plans usually begin at $30 for the master phone and then pay an additional $10 for every phone added to the bundle. This is practical if all of you don't really do much calling and texting anyway.
Cell Phone -- Making the Best Choice for Service Providers
So you've finally decided to get a cell phone for each member of your family, but you're not exactly sure how to choose the best family cell phone plan. Worry no more, just follow this simple guide to buying a family cell phone plan, and then go shopping using the knowledge you'll gain through this guide.
A family cell phone plan allows everyone on the plan to have their own cell phone and their own cell phone number. Not only does each family member have their own cell phone and cell phone number, but you only get one bill, and the family will share allotted minutes; keep your eye on those talkative teenagers though. What's more, many plans include free in-network calling. Free in-network calling allows you to call any of your family members - or other subscribers using the same carrier - and it won't use your free minutes. Plus, a family cell phone plan will allow you peace of mind when your family members are on the road late at night. Why? Because if a member of your family has car trouble then they'll be able to phone you and let you know. But what's even better, nearly all family cell phone plans have a roadside assistance plan that can be added. The roadside assistance plan is optional of course, but you never know when it may come in handy. For example, say your whole family decides to take a vacation away from home, and your car breaks down. Because your entire family is with you, you can't call them for help, but with your roadside assistance plan your family won't be stranded for very long.
The first step in choosing a family cell phone plan is finding a service provider. There are many providers out there, but before you decide on one shop around and study each provider's family cell phone plan. The way to do this is get a brochure or information on the family cell phone plan for the provider, then take the materials home with you and look over each plan with your family to decide which plan is best for your family, and also decide which plan meets your family's budget.
While looking over each plan with your family, here's a list of things to consider
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
How to Survive a Night of Dancing in High Heels
There is no definitive proof of exactly who invented the modern day high heeled shoe, but I'd be willing to bet the farm it was a man. I mean, what woman in her right mind would invent something so twisted and tortuous? High heels are impractical, uncomfortable and a challenge to walk in, let alone dance in.
Studies have even shown that high-heeled shoes can cause both short and long term damage to the body. Yet we women keep on wearing them for one simple reason: they make our legs look long and lean. That's correct-we risk getting a sprained ankle or back pain for the sake of looking sexy!
Yes, there are times we just really want to wear those high-heeled shoes, so we can look fabulous at the prom, a wedding or other special event. We even want to attempt to dance in our sky high heels. For that reason, here are some tips to avoid toppling out of your shoes.
Practice makes perfect. Whatever you do, don't buy a brand new pair of high heels and leave them sitting in your closet until the big night. If you're afraid they'll get dirty, at the very least walk around your house in them so you can get used to them and break them in. You should also practice dancing in them at home, doing some side-to-side moves, as well as turning slowing in them.
Buy Insolia inserts for your shoes. Developed by a renowned podiatrist, Insolia inserts fit any style high heeled shoe, and are invisible. They shift weight to the heel which reduces the pressure and the pain, and makes the high heels more comfortable. My friend tried these and swears they really do make a difference. Gel inserts for the toe of the high heels are another good option to add a little comfort.
If you have to do any walking to get to the actual event, take your high heels in a tote bag and change into them when you arrive. (But only if there will be a place to stash your tote-you don't want to carry around your other shoes all night).
Fast dancing in high heels does not come highly recommended. You risk a painful side ankle bend or worse, an embarrassing face plant to the floor, so keep it slow and stick to basic moves.
Studies have even shown that high-heeled shoes can cause both short and long term damage to the body. Yet we women keep on wearing them for one simple reason: they make our legs look long and lean. That's correct-we risk getting a sprained ankle or back pain for the sake of looking sexy!
Yes, there are times we just really want to wear those high-heeled shoes, so we can look fabulous at the prom, a wedding or other special event. We even want to attempt to dance in our sky high heels. For that reason, here are some tips to avoid toppling out of your shoes.
Practice makes perfect. Whatever you do, don't buy a brand new pair of high heels and leave them sitting in your closet until the big night. If you're afraid they'll get dirty, at the very least walk around your house in them so you can get used to them and break them in. You should also practice dancing in them at home, doing some side-to-side moves, as well as turning slowing in them.
Buy Insolia inserts for your shoes. Developed by a renowned podiatrist, Insolia inserts fit any style high heeled shoe, and are invisible. They shift weight to the heel which reduces the pressure and the pain, and makes the high heels more comfortable. My friend tried these and swears they really do make a difference. Gel inserts for the toe of the high heels are another good option to add a little comfort.
If you have to do any walking to get to the actual event, take your high heels in a tote bag and change into them when you arrive. (But only if there will be a place to stash your tote-you don't want to carry around your other shoes all night).
Fast dancing in high heels does not come highly recommended. You risk a painful side ankle bend or worse, an embarrassing face plant to the floor, so keep it slow and stick to basic moves.
Easy Stretches for Women Who Wear High Heels
They look great on you and they take your fashion to the next level. What I'm I talking about? I'm talking about high heels. Even though they are a great for the sake of fashion, they can be brutal to walk in and they can be brutal on your calves. According to a survey done by the American Podiatric Medical Association, 40% of women where them everyday. Over a period of time high heels can do more than just make your feet hurt. When you walk in in heels two inches or higher they tighten and weaken the calf muscle. It can also cause inflammation to the Achilles tendon. In this article, I want to go over easy stretches that can be done by women who wear high heels. Let's begin.
Single Leg Stance
This particular exercise strengthens the lower leg muscles and improves balance.
Here is how it is done. Stand on your left leg and raise your right knee until your thigh is parallel to the floor. Keep your arms at your side and tighten your abdominal muscles. Hold for 30 seconds. If you feel like you are unstable, you can balance your self on a chair. It is best to do about 5 reps on each leg.
Heel Hang
This exercise stretches the Achilles tendon and the calf muscle. This is what you do. Stand on the ball of your fee at the edge of a step and hold on to a banister for support and balance. Lower your heals slowly as far as your comfortably can. You should feel a stretch that runs from the calf down to your heel. Raise your heel then lower again, this time with your knees slightly bent. You should hold this for about 30 seconds.
Feet Flex
Here is how to do this exercise. Sit on the Floor with your left leg bent and your left heel resting against your right thigh. Extend your right leg in front of you. Wrap a long towel around the arch of your right foot and hold the ends of the towel with both hands. Gently bend forward, bringing your chest toward your toes while pulling on the towel and flexing your foot toward you. This increases flexibility of the calf muscle and the Achilles tendon.
There you ladies. Stretches to help you when you are rocking your heals
Single Leg Stance
This particular exercise strengthens the lower leg muscles and improves balance.
Here is how it is done. Stand on your left leg and raise your right knee until your thigh is parallel to the floor. Keep your arms at your side and tighten your abdominal muscles. Hold for 30 seconds. If you feel like you are unstable, you can balance your self on a chair. It is best to do about 5 reps on each leg.
Heel Hang
This exercise stretches the Achilles tendon and the calf muscle. This is what you do. Stand on the ball of your fee at the edge of a step and hold on to a banister for support and balance. Lower your heals slowly as far as your comfortably can. You should feel a stretch that runs from the calf down to your heel. Raise your heel then lower again, this time with your knees slightly bent. You should hold this for about 30 seconds.
Feet Flex
Here is how to do this exercise. Sit on the Floor with your left leg bent and your left heel resting against your right thigh. Extend your right leg in front of you. Wrap a long towel around the arch of your right foot and hold the ends of the towel with both hands. Gently bend forward, bringing your chest toward your toes while pulling on the towel and flexing your foot toward you. This increases flexibility of the calf muscle and the Achilles tendon.
There you ladies. Stretches to help you when you are rocking your heals
How to Walk in High Heels
If you are afraid to walk in heels you are limiting yourself from purchasing some of the cutest shoes. Vanity aside, there are also some situations where heels really are more appropriate than flats. You might not wear them often, but all women should own and know how to walk in at least one pair.
Unfortunately, there are no quick tips that will instantly make you able to walk in heels. It takes practice, practice, and more practice.
Start with a low or thick heel. Once you get comfortable walking in that you can gradually increase to a higher one. Starting with really high heels is just going to discourage you.
There is no need to jump right to stilettos. Platforms, wedges and stacked heels also give you the same height and illusion of longer legs and are easier to walk in.
Heels can be especially stressful on your feet, back and neck so stretch your legs before and after you spend hours on your feet in heels.
When walking in heels, walk with your legs straight and keep them as close together as your can. High heels can throw off your balance, especially if you aren't used to them so be sure to use your arms to help keep you standing straight. Also keep your chin up and shoulders back.
When first learning, take smaller strides at and be sure to put the heel down first when walking. You want the pressure and weight to land on the heel itself, not on your toes.
Avoid slippery, slushy or rocky pavement. Your heels can easily sink into soft ground and it is much easier to slip in them than it is in flats. Also watch out for grates and cracks that your heel could get stuck in. Not only is this embarrassing, but it can also ruin your shoe.
If heels start to hurt your feet after wearing them for a few hours, be sure to give them a rest. If you go out to a restaurant or are at your desk at work, slip them off for a little while and stretch out your feet. If you wear heels at work, bring a pair of flats to wear on your commute to and from home.
You can also get inserts for your heels to help you regulate your center of gravity. This stops the ache often caused by long term heel wear.
Unfortunately, there are no quick tips that will instantly make you able to walk in heels. It takes practice, practice, and more practice.
Start with a low or thick heel. Once you get comfortable walking in that you can gradually increase to a higher one. Starting with really high heels is just going to discourage you.
There is no need to jump right to stilettos. Platforms, wedges and stacked heels also give you the same height and illusion of longer legs and are easier to walk in.
Heels can be especially stressful on your feet, back and neck so stretch your legs before and after you spend hours on your feet in heels.
When walking in heels, walk with your legs straight and keep them as close together as your can. High heels can throw off your balance, especially if you aren't used to them so be sure to use your arms to help keep you standing straight. Also keep your chin up and shoulders back.
When first learning, take smaller strides at and be sure to put the heel down first when walking. You want the pressure and weight to land on the heel itself, not on your toes.
Avoid slippery, slushy or rocky pavement. Your heels can easily sink into soft ground and it is much easier to slip in them than it is in flats. Also watch out for grates and cracks that your heel could get stuck in. Not only is this embarrassing, but it can also ruin your shoe.
If heels start to hurt your feet after wearing them for a few hours, be sure to give them a rest. If you go out to a restaurant or are at your desk at work, slip them off for a little while and stretch out your feet. If you wear heels at work, bring a pair of flats to wear on your commute to and from home.
You can also get inserts for your heels to help you regulate your center of gravity. This stops the ache often caused by long term heel wear.
High Heels: How to Wear Them Pain-free
For ages women have been wearing high heels to feel taller, skinner and sexier. But for some of us, popping on a pair of brand new stilettos and going out for the night is like foot suicide. Fortunately, there's hope. Here are some of the secrets that most high-heel women aren't willing to share:
1. The most important thing about wearing heels is breaking them in. This doesn't mean putting them on for 5 minutes before you leave. This means really wearing them for hours at a time, and allowing them to mold to your feet. If you try and break in a pair of shoes while you're watching TV, chances are you won't get very far. One of the best tricks is to wear them while you clean the house. Running around and bending down really helps stretch the shoes in all different directions, making the process much faster. Plus, you're at home so you can always take them off if they start to get unbearable. Just try and get in a good 4-5 hours at home before you step outside.
2. Wear heels at least 2-3 times a week. When you're wearing flats, you're feet grow accustomed to your weight being applied evenly. If you only put on heels once in a while, the weight fluctuation is a total shock and can cause a lot of irritation. Be especially careful during the summer. Wearing flip flops every day allows your feet to expand, not only causing dryness and cracking, but also making it harder to walk on a narrower sole.
3. Before you put on your shoes, put on a moisturizing lotion, particularly one containing aloe and vitamin e. This will keep your skin soft so that straps and buckles slide back and forth evenly, avoiding blisters and abrasions. You may even want to bring a small bottle of lotion to reapply if you start to feel your skin getting irritated.
4. Bandaids. Always bring bandaids. Once in a while a shoe is just that uncomfortable, and will need a solid couple of weeks to break in. Just apply a bandaid to whichever part of the shoe is particularly irritating and you'll at least be able to break in the rest. If you still need a bandaid after a few weeks of wear, it's possible that the shoes are just not high quality or don't fit you correctlly. Try and stay away from that cut in the future.
1. The most important thing about wearing heels is breaking them in. This doesn't mean putting them on for 5 minutes before you leave. This means really wearing them for hours at a time, and allowing them to mold to your feet. If you try and break in a pair of shoes while you're watching TV, chances are you won't get very far. One of the best tricks is to wear them while you clean the house. Running around and bending down really helps stretch the shoes in all different directions, making the process much faster. Plus, you're at home so you can always take them off if they start to get unbearable. Just try and get in a good 4-5 hours at home before you step outside.
2. Wear heels at least 2-3 times a week. When you're wearing flats, you're feet grow accustomed to your weight being applied evenly. If you only put on heels once in a while, the weight fluctuation is a total shock and can cause a lot of irritation. Be especially careful during the summer. Wearing flip flops every day allows your feet to expand, not only causing dryness and cracking, but also making it harder to walk on a narrower sole.
3. Before you put on your shoes, put on a moisturizing lotion, particularly one containing aloe and vitamin e. This will keep your skin soft so that straps and buckles slide back and forth evenly, avoiding blisters and abrasions. You may even want to bring a small bottle of lotion to reapply if you start to feel your skin getting irritated.
4. Bandaids. Always bring bandaids. Once in a while a shoe is just that uncomfortable, and will need a solid couple of weeks to break in. Just apply a bandaid to whichever part of the shoe is particularly irritating and you'll at least be able to break in the rest. If you still need a bandaid after a few weeks of wear, it's possible that the shoes are just not high quality or don't fit you correctlly. Try and stay away from that cut in the future.
How to Choose the Perfect Footwear for an Elegant Night Out
After you've searched the globe (or maybe just your closet) for that perfect party outfit, you'll be faced with the dilemma of what to wear on your feet. Sure, those five-inch stiletto crystal-studded heels you saw at shoe pavilion will make you look like a supermodel, but can you walk in them? Taking a dozen successful steps around the shoe store doesn't qualify a pair of shoes as party-worthy. If you can't walk around in them for at least an hour without sitting down or begging for mercy, then these are not the shoes to wear to a party.
An easy test is to wear your intended party shoes on your next trip to the mall. You'll know fairly quickly whether these shoes are going to give you problems at your party! Just remember to pack a pair of flip flops in your handbag that day, just in case things simply don't work out.
Maybe your party is tonight and you have nothing suitable to wear besides an adorable but extremely uncomfortable pair of strappy stilettos that have been hiding in the back of your closet since junior prom. Don't panic! If you have a pair of shoes that fit you but that get uncomfortable if worn too long, there is still a way to make them work for your fancy event. Simply run down to the drugstore and buy some gel insoles with arch support. Read all of the packages - there is very likely to be a type of insole designed specifically for your style of shoe. Just stick the insole into your shoe and walk around a bit to make sure it's situated in the right place. In my experience this can make even the most treacherous pair of shoes insanely comfortable, and is the perfect idea if you plan to dance the night away!
Are you ready to shop for that practical pair of party shoes, but unsure what to look for? Here are three key ingredients to search for in a shoe to insure a successful night out:
How to Choose the Handbag That's Right for You(personal advice)
There are so many wonderful sizes and colors to choose from, not to mention all the great designers out there, that I personally cannot stop with just one!
Choosing a handbag should be based on more than the color of the clothing in your closet though. While color does play a large part when choosing the perfect handbag for you, it should not be your only consideration. One other thing you will need to take into account is your body type. That's right, you need to choose your handbag so that it fits your body type. Now personally I had never heard of this before a year ago, and I used to just buy handbags based on what colors I liked and which colors I had in my wardrobe. It would never have occurred to me that being short and a bit round and having a round or square handbag might actually make me look even rounder.
As like most women my metabolism slowed down as I approached 35 and I swear now it feels like it's almost nonexistent! I continued to choose bags which were in my favorite style which was with a long handle so I could fit it over my shoulder and a thin rectangular shape. However, you are actually supposed to pick a bag that is the opposite of your body shape. If you are a bit heavier as I am then you should pick bags that are thin, slim and longer shaped. If you are tall and slender, then you want a handbag that is round or square. The idea behind this is to make your body shape appear as you want it to. Women who are shorter and rounder tend to want to look thinner and taller, and a bag with a slim and long shape will help to give this illusion. The same goes for the tall and slender woman who may want to look a little more fleshed out and shorter, a round or square handbag can help to give this illusion.
Choose the Right Bag for Your Body
You probably don't give handbags the same scrutiny you give a pair of jeans: if a handbag is cute or fits your lifestyle then it works.
But did you know that a handbag can flatter your shape almost as much as the right pair of jeans?
Apply these easy steps to getting bag in proportion to your figure. It can not only knock off pounds visually (no kidding!), it'll polish up your style in a flash.
Shapes
Try to choose a shape that is the opposite of your body type. If you are tall and thin, look for a slouchy, rounded hobo bag to compliment your figure. If you're short and voluptous, play off opposites by choosing a handbag that is tall and rectangular or long and sleek (like a clutch).
In general, the rounder your figure, the more structured your bag should be. That doesn't mean that you have to carry a hard box around to counterbalance your womanly shape: rectangular or square silhouettes in soft leathers or fabrics will do the trick.
Some popular shapes:
Tote - An open-top bag with straps or handles.
Hobo bag - A crescent-shaped shoulder bag.
Duffle - Tall shoulderbag, often with a wider opening on top.
Field bag - A flap-top shoulderbag with utility-type closure (buckles, snaps, etc).
Clutch - A small, handheld bag or a larger, geometric shape that is tucked under the arm.
Satchel- A large, handheld bag.
Baguette - Long and rounded shoulder bag resembling the namesake bread.
Messenger - A large, soft shoulder bag with long straps (often worn across the body).
Cigar Box - A small, boxy, hard bag.
Pouch - A soft, small bag.
Kelly bag - A classic Hermes style named after Grace Kelly; a large, structured handbag with distinctive hardware closures.
Scale
While the shape should oppose your body type for maximum flattery, the size of the bag should be in proportion to your figure.
Think scale here: a woman who is 6 feet tall and a size 14 would look lost with a teensy hand-held bag. A petite size 0 would look overwhelmed by an enormous slouchy bag.
A shoulder bag's length (where the bottom of the bag hits your body) will accentuate whatever part of the body it comes near.
For example, a shoulder bag that ends around the hips will play up your hip width (the eye is drawn to the bag).
Most women look great with a bag that hits mid-torso because it flatters the waist.
Tips
1.Take time in a store to try on handbags in front of a mirror just like you would apparel.
2.Don't be tempted by trendy shapes that don't suit your figure: there are plenty of great alternatives that will work.
3.Think lifestyle when shopping for handbags: if you're toting diapers and graham crackers, an artsy vintage bag won't hold up.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
how to walk in high heels
Wibble . . . wobble . . . whoops! At the most basic level, there is only one way to walk in high heels. Put one foot in front of the other and go for it. The mechanics have not changed for at least 2m years, when knuckle-dragging was superseded by bipedalism. What has changed in that time are the shoes. Thanks to fashion, not evolution, heels have never been higher. Five years ago, few shops stocked shoes higher than 4in — because women wouldn’t buy them. Now 6in heels with hulking platforms and multiple straps are flying off the shelves, while demand for sensible kitten heels has plummeted.
Designs are becoming ever more extreme: witness Madonna’s recent red-carpet stroll in a pair of pistol-heel Chanel sandals. (Students of stiletto semaphore should note that she slipped into these killer heels the night before she announced her divorce.)
As well as becoming more extreme, shoes have also become more treacherous. It’s as if designers and customers are engaged in an ever-escalating game of dare, and the forfeit is a nasty tumble. Even catwalk models, who are paid huge amounts to make walking in heels look easy, are having trouble staying upright in the fierce new shoes. Three fell from their lofty sling-backs at the Prada show in Milan recently, and those who managed to stay upright wobbled their way along the catwalk like newborn foals.
Despite the hazards, the trend for super-high heels shows no sign of abating. A gym in New York has even launched a stiletto class. For health and safety reasons, they can only teach walking and dancing in heels for 15 minutes at a time (which tells you a lot about this new trend), while the rest of the class focuses on strengthening the legs and calves to make walking in heels easier.
Multimedia
Extreme Heels
The alternatives
Precisely why shoes have become the ultimate fetish object of our times is open for debate. One economist has attributed the fierce shoe boom to women’s desire to reassert themselves after male bankers made a mess of the world. Indeed, the queen of Jimmy Choo, Tamara Mellon, equates heels with power. “Super-high heels provide instant stature and empowerment, and the more you wear them the more comfortable you feel in them,” she says. A fierce pair of heels certainly gets a woman noticed. When Gwyneth Paltrow made her comeback as a sexy screen siren, she did it atop a pair of towering Zanottis.
Even men are getting in on the act. Marc Jacobs took his bow at Louis Vuitton wearing stack-heeled booties. “I’ve always wanted to be taller, which is the real reason I wore them. I also thought I can show that I, too, will suffer for fashion,” he said afterwards.
At least he could walk in his heels. There is no more dispiriting sight than a woman struggling in her shoes. All the sex, power and advantage that heels promise evaporates with every wibble.
1 To cut down on wobble factor, make sure the shoes fit you properly before buying them, and strap them firmly to your feet.
2 The chunkier the heel, the more secure you will feel. The more spindly and strappy, the tougher they will be to teeter in. Do consider platform soles — they take the arch ache out of wearing tall shoes and have made super heights (such as Louis Vuitton’s 7in court shoes) achievable.
3 Don’t make it any harder than it already is by wearing slippery socks or tights with strappy high heels. The toes need to gain some purchase on the shoe, otherwise your whole edifice becomes like a building with unstable foundations (it was the addition of a little cotton inner sock that felled the models on the Prada catwalk).
4 Confidence is the key to looking good in heels. Show no fear. Lean back, stand tall, stretch your leg out in front and imagine that you are walking in flats. Swinging your hips helps with momentum.
5 Plan your heel-wearing strategically. Limit the time you spend in them. For example, walk to work in flats, then change into heels in the office. Always carry a pair of emergency flats (roll-up ballet pumps are very handbag-friendly).
A NEW BOOK ON SHOES
Everything you'll ever need to know about shoes
Vintage + shoes = our new bedtime reading.
Celebrating our love of all things vintage, cultural historian Caroline Cox's new book explores the last hundred years of footwear, starting with the exquisite satin slippers favoured at the turn of the century. This gorgeous coffee table tome references every decade, as well as featuring a forward by the shoe king himself, Christian Louboutin.
It also has an uber handy guide to which vintage shoes are the most collectible - so perfect for consulting before you head out vintage scouting.
The book, £25 published by Carlton, also explores changes in production techniques and cultural and sexual messages conveyed via shoes. Those who like a dose of fashion history will relish the details about François Pinet’s early designs in the 1800s and Swiss brand Bally’s role during WW2. While for those who simply love to view vintage shoes worn by style icons, there’s Rita Hayworth and Carmen Miranda in all their Hollywood glamour.
Vintage + shoes = our new bedtime reading.
Celebrating our love of all things vintage, cultural historian Caroline Cox's new book explores the last hundred years of footwear, starting with the exquisite satin slippers favoured at the turn of the century. This gorgeous coffee table tome references every decade, as well as featuring a forward by the shoe king himself, Christian Louboutin.
It also has an uber handy guide to which vintage shoes are the most collectible - so perfect for consulting before you head out vintage scouting.
The book, £25 published by Carlton, also explores changes in production techniques and cultural and sexual messages conveyed via shoes. Those who like a dose of fashion history will relish the details about François Pinet’s early designs in the 1800s and Swiss brand Bally’s role during WW2. While for those who simply love to view vintage shoes worn by style icons, there’s Rita Hayworth and Carmen Miranda in all their Hollywood glamour.
Friday, October 24, 2008
DO You Need a New Item?
Only the very daftest Pollyannas of fashion consumption are talking up the trends this autumn as if nothing has happened. Put quite starkly, clothes sales are juddering to a halt. Hardly a surprise, since such expenditure is perhaps the least justifiable - especially since the credit binge of the last halfdecade has left us with wardrobes, lofts and bin-bags under the stairs bursting with instant purchases with which we can punish ourselves at leisure.
The crash is confronting us with assessing what's valuable, and what's irrelevant. If anything can be rationally allowable as a "good" purchase, what would it be? Only two types of expenditure pass the test: replacement items based on need, and things that will last for years.
1 Do I need it? Brutally speaking, only four things qualify as replacement purchases: underwear, hosiery, children's clothes and shoes. Footwear squeezes into this category only on the basis that the old ones are broken and unwearable. Fact: last year's shoe-boots and platforms will do. Exceptions can also be made if the moths got your favourite sweater, scarf and gloves. (Luckily, scarves are one of the best and most economical forms of fashion self-expression this season.)
2 Will it last? There's only one litmus test when standing in front of a garment that's screaming "buy me". Unless you can imagine wearing it in three or five years' time, step away.
3 Is it good value? Obviously, there's value in quality: a beautiful, classic coat in a shape and neutral colour that suits you at a top-of-the-range price will stand up for years, but a cheap version that "gets the look" will be dead in a season. A plain dress that can be accessorised in six different ways (this year) and six other ways next is also good old-fashioned value.
4 Do I absolutely love it? Love-atfirst- sight needs on-the-spot diagnosis. If it's impulse reaction to the trendiest thing of the season (2008 alert: lace, tartan), stifle it. If you recognise it as something exceptional that speaks to the core of your identity, this could be the start of a lifelong relationship. Take carte blanche: even if this perfect item is the boldest, flashiest, most counterintuitively mad purchase to be making in a depressed economy, you'll still be wearing it from time to time. And you'll have forgotten what you paid.
5 How will I pay for it? Surely you don't want more on your credit card?
Which way will fashion jump in the coming recession? No one I've spoken to claims to have the answer, but one lesson from the past is that the escape into fantasy is one way out. That's what struck me at the opening of a retrospective of the late and too-long neglected Scottish designer Bill Gibb at Bath Museum of Fashion, whose richly patterned, swirlingly romantic dresses captured the imagination of British women in the early Seventies.
Some of Gibb's most beautiful work dates from 1974, designed against the sombre backdrop of the three-day week. If those clothes offered light in the darkness, dancing across the pages of Vogue (even if few could afford them) they are equally now. I wouldn't be surprised if Gibb-isms started turning up on catwalks next year. Bath museum is a mecca for designers, students and enthralled schoolchildren alike. I worshipped there as a local schoolgirl, and saw my first Bill Gibb when it was chosen as Dress of the Year in 1970. So, in a way I owe my career to this museum and its power to make girls dream.
The crash is confronting us with assessing what's valuable, and what's irrelevant. If anything can be rationally allowable as a "good" purchase, what would it be? Only two types of expenditure pass the test: replacement items based on need, and things that will last for years.
1 Do I need it? Brutally speaking, only four things qualify as replacement purchases: underwear, hosiery, children's clothes and shoes. Footwear squeezes into this category only on the basis that the old ones are broken and unwearable. Fact: last year's shoe-boots and platforms will do. Exceptions can also be made if the moths got your favourite sweater, scarf and gloves. (Luckily, scarves are one of the best and most economical forms of fashion self-expression this season.)
2 Will it last? There's only one litmus test when standing in front of a garment that's screaming "buy me". Unless you can imagine wearing it in three or five years' time, step away.
3 Is it good value? Obviously, there's value in quality: a beautiful, classic coat in a shape and neutral colour that suits you at a top-of-the-range price will stand up for years, but a cheap version that "gets the look" will be dead in a season. A plain dress that can be accessorised in six different ways (this year) and six other ways next is also good old-fashioned value.
4 Do I absolutely love it? Love-atfirst- sight needs on-the-spot diagnosis. If it's impulse reaction to the trendiest thing of the season (2008 alert: lace, tartan), stifle it. If you recognise it as something exceptional that speaks to the core of your identity, this could be the start of a lifelong relationship. Take carte blanche: even if this perfect item is the boldest, flashiest, most counterintuitively mad purchase to be making in a depressed economy, you'll still be wearing it from time to time. And you'll have forgotten what you paid.
5 How will I pay for it? Surely you don't want more on your credit card?
Which way will fashion jump in the coming recession? No one I've spoken to claims to have the answer, but one lesson from the past is that the escape into fantasy is one way out. That's what struck me at the opening of a retrospective of the late and too-long neglected Scottish designer Bill Gibb at Bath Museum of Fashion, whose richly patterned, swirlingly romantic dresses captured the imagination of British women in the early Seventies.
Some of Gibb's most beautiful work dates from 1974, designed against the sombre backdrop of the three-day week. If those clothes offered light in the darkness, dancing across the pages of Vogue (even if few could afford them) they are equally now. I wouldn't be surprised if Gibb-isms started turning up on catwalks next year. Bath museum is a mecca for designers, students and enthralled schoolchildren alike. I worshipped there as a local schoolgirl, and saw my first Bill Gibb when it was chosen as Dress of the Year in 1970. So, in a way I owe my career to this museum and its power to make girls dream.
China's Fashion Handbags
With more than 10,000 manufacturers, China is the largest supplier of fashion bags in the world. The country accounts for about 25 percent of global supply in the line.
The appreciation of the yuan, higher material costs and rising labor expenses, however, are challenging the world's bag factory, trimming suppliers' profit margins and forcing them to raise prices.
In the face of these challenges, suppliers are trying to reduce their overall expenses by improving production efficiency and enhancing staff training. Most suppliers, however, will have no choice but to raise prices in the next 12 months.
This comprehensive report will help you:
- Identify manufacturers that are best positioned to meet your needs
- Review the newest products at the best prices
- Save time and money by pre-qualifying makers before your next sourcing trip
- And much more...
What you'll get
- In-depth profiles of 51 major suppliers with a comprehensive look at their product and pricing strategy, manufacturing and export capability, verified contact details, and more -- this information is not available anywhere else
- 152 full-color images that depict popular fashion bags complete with product descriptions, prices, minimum order requirements and delivery times
- Results of the custom-designed supplier survey, which forecasts industry trends for the next 12 months
- Verified supplier contact details, including names, e-mails, telephone numbers and websites of profiled makers
- This blog covers a wide range of products such as: beach, tote, evening, shoulder and handbags in PVC, fabric, genuine and synthetic leather and natural materials
China's fashion bags industry is cautiously optimistic about its export outlook in the months ahead, as it continues to deal with challenges that threaten to curb growth. Rising material and labor costs, the yuan's appreciation, and lower export tax rebates have all made it difficult for companies to strike a balance between healthy sales and maintaining margins.
The world's largest supplier of fashion bags, the country accounts for at least 25 percent of global supply. Since the line is very broad and China customs does not track fashion bags independently, it is difficult to determine the exact value and volume of overseas shipments.
While companies have been posting sizeable growth in the past years, economic challenges are now leading many of them to forecast moderate end-2008 prospects. In a survey conducted by us, one-fourth of respondents are expecting less than 10 percent growth and 16 percent are projecting sales to decline or remain flat.
In an effort to keep margins at the same level while minimizing price increases, many companies are investing in cost-saving measures. At the fore are improving production efficiency and strengthening staff training.
The appreciation of the yuan, higher material costs and rising labor expenses, however, are challenging the world's bag factory, trimming suppliers' profit margins and forcing them to raise prices.
In the face of these challenges, suppliers are trying to reduce their overall expenses by improving production efficiency and enhancing staff training. Most suppliers, however, will have no choice but to raise prices in the next 12 months.
This comprehensive report will help you:
- Identify manufacturers that are best positioned to meet your needs
- Review the newest products at the best prices
- Save time and money by pre-qualifying makers before your next sourcing trip
- And much more...
What you'll get
- In-depth profiles of 51 major suppliers with a comprehensive look at their product and pricing strategy, manufacturing and export capability, verified contact details, and more -- this information is not available anywhere else
- 152 full-color images that depict popular fashion bags complete with product descriptions, prices, minimum order requirements and delivery times
- Results of the custom-designed supplier survey, which forecasts industry trends for the next 12 months
- Verified supplier contact details, including names, e-mails, telephone numbers and websites of profiled makers
- This blog covers a wide range of products such as: beach, tote, evening, shoulder and handbags in PVC, fabric, genuine and synthetic leather and natural materials
China's fashion bags industry is cautiously optimistic about its export outlook in the months ahead, as it continues to deal with challenges that threaten to curb growth. Rising material and labor costs, the yuan's appreciation, and lower export tax rebates have all made it difficult for companies to strike a balance between healthy sales and maintaining margins.
The world's largest supplier of fashion bags, the country accounts for at least 25 percent of global supply. Since the line is very broad and China customs does not track fashion bags independently, it is difficult to determine the exact value and volume of overseas shipments.
While companies have been posting sizeable growth in the past years, economic challenges are now leading many of them to forecast moderate end-2008 prospects. In a survey conducted by us, one-fourth of respondents are expecting less than 10 percent growth and 16 percent are projecting sales to decline or remain flat.
In an effort to keep margins at the same level while minimizing price increases, many companies are investing in cost-saving measures. At the fore are improving production efficiency and strengthening staff training.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
5 Tips to Shop Securer
Hello, I am Rebecca Lee, an online-shopping lover, like you. I would like to share my experiences of online shopping with you. If you have any want to say, no matter problems, suggestions, opinions or stories, please directly email me (rebeccaleemailbox@gmail.com). Your comments and ideas are appreciated. Let’s share our experiences to help one another to shop wiser, easier and securer.
Personally, I love to shop online, because it is far cheaper the goods sold on internet than it in the real shops. However, we always try to find a good way to shop securer, not only pay securer but also buy as we expectations.
Here, I would like to share my experiences with you. Let’s discuss these tips and help one another to become WISE SHOPPERS.
Tip 1 Use a trustworthy information provider
Many online shoppers are worrying that the goods bought online will not come to our expectations. That is really a problem for us to find good stores selling good products we want.
Generally, we use Google or Yahoo to search desired products online. Then Google or Yahoo will list the result about all relative results. We can chose and click some of them to see what they are. Google and Yahoo are really good tools for us.
However, there is a problem. Not at every research, we can find what we exactly want, and it will take many times to see whether the store is the one we are looking for. For example, if you search “Apple”, it will list all results related to “Apple” nevertheless as a fruit, a brand or a name, so, we shall spend some time to filer the results. Besides, it is not easy to judge it is a good merchant or not.
Therefore, I prefer to shop through b2c website instead of directly search by Google or Yahoo. Following is the websites I usually go to,
Amazon: I just buy the goods sold by Amazon itself, because I don’t really like the Amazon Stores and Merchants.
Ebay: I like use Paypal, so I like shop on ebay. The policy of Paypal is to protect buyers that gives me confidence to pay before I see the real products, but I always trouble about how to choose one from so many stores.
Chinashopgate: Actually, this is a website to help buyers to chose stores by providing buyer reviews and ratings of merchants and stores instead of a b2c website. The stores listed on Chinashopgate are all from China. They sell made-in-china products. The prices are far cheaper than Amazon and Ebay. In fact, many Ebay and Amazon sellers also source from this website. I know many buyers are worrying about the quality of made-in-china products, but for me, I never think “made-in-china” is bad, because I always buy them not only because the price but also its quality. The key is how to choose. That is why I like chinashopgate because it is easy to decide buy from which store because you can compare them buy their rating and buyer reviews. As far as concerned, chinashopgate is the only such website in China I can found. Try it if you want to buy high cost-effective products.
Tip 2 Compare by buyer reviews
There are too many sellers on internet. It is not easy to choose the correct store and product online. Every store says “I am the best”. How to judge? My tip is buyer reviews or store ratings from third-party. Why third-party? I know some stores give positive comments by themselves, so I prefer to believe the scores gave by the third-party.
I strongly suggest you to “compare before decide”. Generally, I choose three to five stores which selling my desired products. Then I will firstly compare their ratings and buyer reviews. From buyer reviews, you can directly know the quality and other information about the product and seller. This will help you to decide to buy or not. Usually, I seldom buy the product without rating or buyer review.
Tip 3 Clear all doubts
When I make the decision, I will contact the sellers by IM or other ways, such as phone or email. However, I prefer to contact them by Instant Messenger. Ask the sells whatever you care about, as detail as you can. Make sure you clear up all your doubts before order.
Remember the conversation between you and the seller is very important, because it is the evidence in support of your claim if you have dispute with the seller. So you’d better keep them until you think you have successfully put through the deal already. This is another reason why I prefer to use IM instead of phone. Moreover, it is better to contact seller by the IM they listed on website than other IM ways, because this will prove this is the seller not other person.
Tip 4 Pay in safe way
Term of Payment is very important for online shoppers. This is maybe our “final line of defence”. We will probably loose money if we pay by unsafe method. I only use Paypal or credit card to pay, so I only shop from the stores can be paid by Paypal or credit cards.
I never pay by TT or Western Union, especially shop from China, nevertheless the store having five-star ratings or I am its regular customer. If the seller asks you to pay by TT or WU, I suggest you flatly refuse them.
Paypal is a really good payment tool for online shoppers because it has very good policy to protect buys from false and fraud. Buyers can refund their payment if we unfortunately meet a bad seller. I will detail the policy of Paypal in my later articles.
Tip 5 Ship in safe way
Shipment is also important, although many shoppers don’t really care. Some b2c website, such as Amazon, accept return or refund only when the products are shipped by their pointed shipping companies.
A good shipping company can protect your products from destroy during shipment, especially for easy broken goods. Or, if the products are unfortunately destroyed during shipment, it is easier to claim a good shipping company for indemnification. Also, good shipping companies guarantee you can receive your products on time. After all, we are eager to receive the product. The sooner, the better.
As a matter of fact, I only ship what I bought by express. I think it is the safest way for retail.
Personally, I love to shop online, because it is far cheaper the goods sold on internet than it in the real shops. However, we always try to find a good way to shop securer, not only pay securer but also buy as we expectations.
Here, I would like to share my experiences with you. Let’s discuss these tips and help one another to become WISE SHOPPERS.
Tip 1 Use a trustworthy information provider
Many online shoppers are worrying that the goods bought online will not come to our expectations. That is really a problem for us to find good stores selling good products we want.
Generally, we use Google or Yahoo to search desired products online. Then Google or Yahoo will list the result about all relative results. We can chose and click some of them to see what they are. Google and Yahoo are really good tools for us.
However, there is a problem. Not at every research, we can find what we exactly want, and it will take many times to see whether the store is the one we are looking for. For example, if you search “Apple”, it will list all results related to “Apple” nevertheless as a fruit, a brand or a name, so, we shall spend some time to filer the results. Besides, it is not easy to judge it is a good merchant or not.
Therefore, I prefer to shop through b2c website instead of directly search by Google or Yahoo. Following is the websites I usually go to,
Amazon: I just buy the goods sold by Amazon itself, because I don’t really like the Amazon Stores and Merchants.
Ebay: I like use Paypal, so I like shop on ebay. The policy of Paypal is to protect buyers that gives me confidence to pay before I see the real products, but I always trouble about how to choose one from so many stores.
Chinashopgate: Actually, this is a website to help buyers to chose stores by providing buyer reviews and ratings of merchants and stores instead of a b2c website. The stores listed on Chinashopgate are all from China. They sell made-in-china products. The prices are far cheaper than Amazon and Ebay. In fact, many Ebay and Amazon sellers also source from this website. I know many buyers are worrying about the quality of made-in-china products, but for me, I never think “made-in-china” is bad, because I always buy them not only because the price but also its quality. The key is how to choose. That is why I like chinashopgate because it is easy to decide buy from which store because you can compare them buy their rating and buyer reviews. As far as concerned, chinashopgate is the only such website in China I can found. Try it if you want to buy high cost-effective products.
Tip 2 Compare by buyer reviews
There are too many sellers on internet. It is not easy to choose the correct store and product online. Every store says “I am the best”. How to judge? My tip is buyer reviews or store ratings from third-party. Why third-party? I know some stores give positive comments by themselves, so I prefer to believe the scores gave by the third-party.
I strongly suggest you to “compare before decide”. Generally, I choose three to five stores which selling my desired products. Then I will firstly compare their ratings and buyer reviews. From buyer reviews, you can directly know the quality and other information about the product and seller. This will help you to decide to buy or not. Usually, I seldom buy the product without rating or buyer review.
Tip 3 Clear all doubts
When I make the decision, I will contact the sellers by IM or other ways, such as phone or email. However, I prefer to contact them by Instant Messenger. Ask the sells whatever you care about, as detail as you can. Make sure you clear up all your doubts before order.
Remember the conversation between you and the seller is very important, because it is the evidence in support of your claim if you have dispute with the seller. So you’d better keep them until you think you have successfully put through the deal already. This is another reason why I prefer to use IM instead of phone. Moreover, it is better to contact seller by the IM they listed on website than other IM ways, because this will prove this is the seller not other person.
Tip 4 Pay in safe way
Term of Payment is very important for online shoppers. This is maybe our “final line of defence”. We will probably loose money if we pay by unsafe method. I only use Paypal or credit card to pay, so I only shop from the stores can be paid by Paypal or credit cards.
I never pay by TT or Western Union, especially shop from China, nevertheless the store having five-star ratings or I am its regular customer. If the seller asks you to pay by TT or WU, I suggest you flatly refuse them.
Paypal is a really good payment tool for online shoppers because it has very good policy to protect buys from false and fraud. Buyers can refund their payment if we unfortunately meet a bad seller. I will detail the policy of Paypal in my later articles.
Tip 5 Ship in safe way
Shipment is also important, although many shoppers don’t really care. Some b2c website, such as Amazon, accept return or refund only when the products are shipped by their pointed shipping companies.
A good shipping company can protect your products from destroy during shipment, especially for easy broken goods. Or, if the products are unfortunately destroyed during shipment, it is easier to claim a good shipping company for indemnification. Also, good shipping companies guarantee you can receive your products on time. After all, we are eager to receive the product. The sooner, the better.
As a matter of fact, I only ship what I bought by express. I think it is the safest way for retail.
10 Tips for Starting a Computer Business
This is a very good article for the people who want to start a computer business. After all, Computer Business is very suitable for the starters who have limited budget or are unwilling to invest too many money or time. It is a good business for students, housekeepers or even common employees. Now, let’s study the 10 tips together.
Many people dream of running their own successful business. However, those dreams never include the sweat, blood and tears that are part of getting there. Here are 10 reality based tips for starting a computer business.
1. Love what you do - This is by far the most important thing in almost every business. Don’t ever do it just for the money .
2. Have sufficient start up funds - which should cover your business registration, initial visit to your accountant to get setup legally and some business cards. However, the most important start up funds are the ones you need to support yourself while you build up your client base, which leads me into my next tip.
3. Start your own business while you are still employed - It may be many months before your business starts becoming profitable so its a good idea to have another job to cover your living expenses during that time.
4. Be good with money - Managing money isn’t just one of those things that you do in business. It is what business is all about. If you cant manage your own funds now, you probably shouldn’t be starting a business.
5. Start on a shoestring - Don’t go renting a big office space if you can start your business from home. Don’t buy lots of expensive office furniture and electronics. A computer, fax machine, basic printer, internet connection, a phone and a basic
toolkit should be enough for most businesses.
6. Understand how you will make a profit - Work out how much you will need to charge for your products and services in order to make a substantial profit. Take into account costs such as your advertising, utilities and rent. From there you can determine how much money you need to make each month to survive.
7. Get and keep the competitive edge - Perhaps you can strike up a special deal with your supplier to get items cheaper than your competitors. Be a professional on the products you are selling or have the friendliest staff.
8. Don’t go it alone - Unless you are a accountant, a lawyer or a designer then you should hire professionals to do those tasks. In the long run, if you try and do it yourself you will waste more time and money than if you originally paid a professional to do it. Remember your time isn’t free anymore.It is also a good idea to have someone you can bounce ideas off. Its especially important to have someone who will play devils advocate for you.
9. Be Professional - Everything you do should be professional. Your business cards, the way you act and even the way you dress. This shows your clients that you are a professional running a serious business.
10. Prepare for the worst - What would you do if your house/office burnt down right now? Would your customer database be backed up elsewhere or would it perish? Do you have adequate insurance if a clients computer perished in a fire, along with all its data?
Many people dream of running their own successful business. However, those dreams never include the sweat, blood and tears that are part of getting there. Here are 10 reality based tips for starting a computer business.
1. Love what you do - This is by far the most important thing in almost every business. Don’t ever do it just for the money .
2. Have sufficient start up funds - which should cover your business registration, initial visit to your accountant to get setup legally and some business cards. However, the most important start up funds are the ones you need to support yourself while you build up your client base, which leads me into my next tip.
3. Start your own business while you are still employed - It may be many months before your business starts becoming profitable so its a good idea to have another job to cover your living expenses during that time.
4. Be good with money - Managing money isn’t just one of those things that you do in business. It is what business is all about. If you cant manage your own funds now, you probably shouldn’t be starting a business.
5. Start on a shoestring - Don’t go renting a big office space if you can start your business from home. Don’t buy lots of expensive office furniture and electronics. A computer, fax machine, basic printer, internet connection, a phone and a basic
toolkit should be enough for most businesses.
6. Understand how you will make a profit - Work out how much you will need to charge for your products and services in order to make a substantial profit. Take into account costs such as your advertising, utilities and rent. From there you can determine how much money you need to make each month to survive.
7. Get and keep the competitive edge - Perhaps you can strike up a special deal with your supplier to get items cheaper than your competitors. Be a professional on the products you are selling or have the friendliest staff.
8. Don’t go it alone - Unless you are a accountant, a lawyer or a designer then you should hire professionals to do those tasks. In the long run, if you try and do it yourself you will waste more time and money than if you originally paid a professional to do it. Remember your time isn’t free anymore.It is also a good idea to have someone you can bounce ideas off. Its especially important to have someone who will play devils advocate for you.
9. Be Professional - Everything you do should be professional. Your business cards, the way you act and even the way you dress. This shows your clients that you are a professional running a serious business.
10. Prepare for the worst - What would you do if your house/office burnt down right now? Would your customer database be backed up elsewhere or would it perish? Do you have adequate insurance if a clients computer perished in a fire, along with all its data?
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