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Three Step Process For Repairing Polished Concrete or Epoxy Floors
Although polished concrete is a highly durable flooring option, it can succumb to damage after a long time. The damage usually occurs and can be caused by; using harsh soaps to clean it, stains caused by other liquids seeping through the concrete, exposure to high foot traffic, and exposure to high impact are the issue with epoxy.
We interviewed an epoxy flooring contractor near marlboro NJ can also wear and tear if the contractor laid the foundation improperly. Improperly laying the polished concrete can cause air pockets and bubbles inside the concrete. These bubbles later worsen and crack.
Luckily, there are ways to fix the small imperfections that occur over time. Read on to find out how to repair polished concrete floors.
Repairing Dulling
A polished concrete floor can become dull when exposed to high traffic, usually by foot. This can occur in places like restaurants, school’s common areas, or grocery stores. Typically, this happens when the floor features a burnished tropical treatment or a sealer to give it a shiny look. These features usually wear out fast over time. You can look at these tips from a company in Texas.
If you went for a mechanically polished concrete floor where physical buffing is done to produce a shiny appearance, your floor’s shine might last for a while compared to when you use chemicals to get the same effect. Nevertheless, the polished concrete floor is bound to become dull after some time, no matter how well it is polished.
A mere rebuffing process can make your polished concrete shiny again to fix the dulling. The floors will look as good as new once a professional rebuffing is done.
Fixing Cracks
Besides dulling, cracking is another common problem for polished concrete floors. And just like dulling, you cannot entirely avoid cracking. Cracking usually occurs when the chemicals used in making the concrete floor shrink. Also, adding more water to the concrete puts the concrete at more risk of cracking.
However, unlike dulling, cracking is not easy to fix, especially when the cracks appear in small areas. Replicating a good finish can be challenging in such areas, and pouring more concrete into the cracks will not do the trick. When your concrete develops small cracks, the advisable thing to do is to consult a professional contractor first to assess the extent of the damage and have them give their advice on the best way to fix the cracks.
Typically, an epoxy repair mortar is used to repair concrete cracks. The other alternative is by using control joints. Control joints are more of a preventive measure than a repair method since they are fixed on the concrete floor when the concrete is being laid. The control joints help provide stable and durable flooring and limit the threat of cracking.
Fixing Crazing
Cracks are known as crazing when they become interconnected, forming a hexagonal shape. The cracks result in a sloppy and unsightly appearance.
Crazing occurs when the finishing of the concrete floor is poorly done or when the concrete dries too fast. Fortunately, concrete contractors can fix the crazing when it occurs during the construction. They do this using a method known as moist curing. Moist curing is a popular repair product that features a spray-on with chemicals that fix the crazing. Alternatively, the contractor can use other stiffer and drier mixing solutions.
Other more straightforward methods that do not involve chemicals include using a broom to brush over the concrete floor in the final stages. This method is useful in masking cracks and other surface blemishes of a minor scale. Prompt repair of crazing is necessary to avoid severe damage when the crazing is left for longer.
Finally, since it is almost impossible to prevent the concrete floor from dulling and cracking, the best thing to do is to ensure you involve professional contractors when installing the polished concrete floor. This will enable you to at least enjoy your beautifully shiny concrete floor before you have to think of repairing it. But make sure you involve professional flooring contractors to get quality results.
Beating the Competition: How to Make More From Your Airbnb
If you have some space to spare in your home, Airbnb is an excellent way to make a good income. But today, there are loads of listings in almost any neighborhood, and let’s face it; better homes, better amenities, nicer views… And the truth is that these days you can’t compete on prices alone.
This spells the need to rethink how you run your facility.
You want first-time guests to love it so much that not only will they long to come back, but also they refer you to their circles. For this to happen, you need to bring your A-game. Roll up your sleeves and get ready. Here’s to make more from your Airbnb.
- Focus on the Bedrooms
You will be surprised at how much attention people give to bedrooms and sleeping areas when choosing vacations. This is an area that will require you to put your best foot forward if you are to stand out.
Think doonas with quality filling, white hotel-style linen, and so on.
Ensure to capture these details in your listing as well so that potential guests know what to expect beforehand. This can significantly help increase your bookings.
- Think Sustainability
Going green campaigns in recent years have increasingly focused on what individuals can do on a smaller scale. Combined with national-level policy, individual efforts create a considerable impact as well.
As a business owner, running a sustainable property is advantageous on several fronts.
The key ones are that one, you are likely to attract like-minded, pro-green proponents to your property.
The second is that you can use the specific sustainability features on your property to separate yourself from other Airbnb’s in your locale when marketing. This does not have to be anything complicated; water conservation, live plants, composting, and so on are small touches that can amplify your brand.
- Welcome Pack
Let’s face it: everyone loves freebies. To understand just how much, look at reviews left for different hotels and see how prominently the idea of welcome packs feature.
This will require some creativity, however. Because you are a business looking to make a profit, your accommodation fees will dictate what your welcome pack should hold. Ultimately, it’s the time and effort you put into making your guests feel warm and fuzzy that matters.
Items like candy, fruit, or local delicacies will work well enough.
While it’s okay to mention this in your advert, you can opt to leave it as a surprise. There is no expectation of a grand welcome pack, and the surprise element can add you extra guest points.
- Make It Family-Friendly
Most vacationers with young children will tell you the hassle they go through to find family-friendly accommodations. If you have a location where families will make up a significant percentage of guests, making your facility family-friendly can give you an edge.
Think about things like cots, high chairs, laundry powder, free washing/machine, extra mattresses, and so on.
You can also consider building a safe child corner where parents can leave their kids playing as they unwind. You can take this a notch higher and have a resident baby minder at a fee.
The opportunity to explore, relax and unwind while a resident baby minder takes care of their little ones for a couple of hours is a dream come true for most parents.
Think Outside the Box
Guests have lots of options today more than ever before, and being the choice facility will take some thinking outside the box. Luckily, these do not have to be expensive undertakings. Small, thoughtful additions are often enough to woo your guest and keep them coming back for more.
Jeep Cherokee vs Wrangler: A Comparative Guide
You’re looking to buy a new vehicle; in particular, you’re interested in buying a Jeep. However, you’re wondering: what wins the battle of Jeep Cherokee vs. Wrangler?
Sure, the Jeep Wrangler has that classic Jeep look, but the Cherokee’s performance is right on par. Not to mention, the Cherokee offers more cargo space. The comparison is close, to say the least.
Alas, it’s for this reason that we’re going to examine the two in detail below to demonstrate how they measure up. Read on to find out which vehicle is right for you.
Exterior
The exteriors of the Jeep Cherokee and Wrangler have similarities. For instance, their grilles are almost identical. But overall, they’re very different looking vehicles.
The Wrangler has more of a traditional Jeep look. It’s boxy, it’s angular, and it’s risen quite a bit off of its wheels.
The Cherokee, on the other hand, has more of an SUV look. This is to say that it’s sleeker, more rounded, and sits relatively close to the wheels.
There’s no clear winner in this department. Aesthetic preferences are primarily subjective, after all. So, give a look at both and see which one fits your preferences.
Interior
As far as their interiors go, the Cherokee and Wrangler are essentially the same. At their max they provide 5 seats, all of which possess ample head and leg room. Note that the Wrangler comes with a 4-seat model, as well.
Each vehicle is available with a variety of trims. So, whether you want cloth leather upholstery, you can get either.
Both vehicles provide ample storage space, along with a variety of storage compartments. We should also note that both have fold down back seats, which allows for even more storage space.
Suspension
Next, we’ll discuss each vehicle’s suspension. Simply put, the Jeep Wrangler’s suspension performance is better for off-roading than the Cherokee’s. It sits higher, is better equipped to absorb shocks, and can easily handle rough and rocky terrains.
Now, this isn’t to say that the Cherokee’s suspension can’t handle off-roading. Quite the contrary–in fact; it’s one of the best off-roading SUVs in existence. But if you’re buying a vehicle specifically for off-roading purposes, the Jeep Wrangler is the better option.
Power
You’re probably curious about each vehicle’s power capabilities. Though they’re available in a variety of trims, each of which has its own capabilities. Overall, the Cherokee is the more powerful vehicle. Its weakest trim still produces up to 293HP, with its most powerful trim reaching an astounding 707 HP.
In comparison, the Wrangler produces between 260 and 285 HP. This is plenty powerful for most purposes, but falls short overall. Whereas the Cherokee can tow between 3,500 and 7,200 lbs, the Wrangler tows only between 2,000 and 3,500 lbs.
So, in essence, the Cherokee is more of a towing vehicle. If you’re looking for something to haul a trailer with, opt for the Cherokee over the Wrangler.
Fuel Efficiency
When it comes to fuel efficiency, both vehicles are relatively comparable. However, the Cherokee is a more fuel-efficient vehicle than the Wrangler.
The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee gets 31 miles to the gallon on the highway and 23 miles to the gallon in the city. The 2020 Wrangler gets 29 miles to the gallon on the highway and 22 miles to the gallon in the city.
These are efficient numbers for both vehicles. Whether you’re traveling long distances or staying close to home, you won’t be burning much gas.
Safety
Next, we’ll discuss safety. On the whole, both vehicles are quite safe. They were each awarded 4 out of 5 stars by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
So, while there are vehicles that provide a greater level of safety, these are considered sufficient.
Note, each is available with a variety of safety features. These include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control, to name just a few.
Warranty
These vehicles’ warranties are similar, but have some nuances. Both come with a 3 year, 36,000-mile standard warranty.
However, the two cars’ powertrain warranties differ. Whereas the Cherokee has a 5 year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, the Wrangler has a 5 year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Recreation
Perhaps the biggest difference between the Wrangler and the Cherokee is in their recreational capabilities. Whereas the Cherokee is a fairly straightforward SUV with an above-average suspension system, the Wrangler is a vehicle practically designed for recreation.
Its most notable features are its takeaway roof and removable doors. They can both be taken off as desired, making the vehicle something of a convertible. Whether you need to bundle up for winter or let the sun in during the summertime, a Wrangler will serve you well.
Price
Both the Cherokee and the Wrangler come in many different trims. These trims are available at a wide variety of prices. The more features you add, the more you can expect to pay.
For comparison’s sake, let’s discuss the costs of their base trims. The base trim for the 2020 Cherokee MSRPs sits at $25,840. The base trim for the 2020 Wrangler MSRPs totals $28,295.
Both of these costs are comparable to similar vehicles on the market. So, there’s no reason to let their price dissuade you.
Jeep Cherokee vs Wrangler: A Battle With No Clear Winner
When it comes to the battle of Jeep Cherokee vs. Wrangler, there is no clear winner. Both vehicles have their fair share of positive attributes, along with a few drawbacks as well. In the end, it’s all about assessing your specific needs and preferences, and then choosing a vehicle that best suits them.
In any case, owning a Jeep can be quite beneficial. They perform terrifically both on-road and off-road, making them some of the most versatile vehicles in existence.
Looking for similar info? Our website can help you. Take a look at some of our other blog posts now!
What Keeps Men From Picking Up Their Household Mess
By Andi Simon, Ph.D.
For many of the women I have been working with during the pandemic crisis, the biggest complaint has been: “Why doesn’t my husband help pick up the mess?” “Don’t men even see the toys all around them, the dishes in the sink, the clothes needing folding?” And when they finally lend a hand, it is hardly neat or “the way I would have done it.”
Well, ladies and gentlemen, the cultural dilemma is upon us, exaggerated during the current stay-at-home, work remotely era caused by COVID-19. What wives, moms and girlfriends might have silently dealt with in the past has become a major issue when both partners are now at home together. Differences are more apparent, irritations closer to the surface.
As an anthropologist, and a wife, and a mother, I know all too well how difficult it is to change habits in adults. Once we learn our habits, they take over and drive us. My husband is a wonderful teammate but loves to leave his cabinets open, his clothes folded but not so smoothly, and his office … well let’s not discuss that. I do confess, at times my office is as big a mess as his, which is OK as long as each of us stick to our own disorderly worlds.
In a recent Atlantic article, “The Myth That Gets Men Out of Doing Chores,” Joe Pinsker writes about how these male-female differences originate partly from how boys and girls are raised, and partly from how men and women simply see things through different lenses. While some contend that boys are naturally messier than girls, there is little research to support that. If anything, boys and girls (and men and women) can both make a mess in the bedroom, the bathroom and the kitchen — indeed, making messes comes naturally to both sexes. Cleaning them up, less so.
The issue is that boys and girls are taught differently what it means to be “neat” or “messy.” There is nothing inherent in either of those words. We learn what they mean as we grow up, and the ones teaching us play a major role in handing down those cultural values about what we should or should not be doing to create order in our lives.
What matters is how we “believe” that we as humans create and manage our physical and social order, at home and outside of it. Watch boys at a sporting event — lacrosse, soccer or anything — and they learn quickly how to pack their sports bag and keep their equipment in good shape (or be yelled at by the coach). Girls do the same. In the office, men can be very neat, or not. I have had bosses with horrible office order and others who were so immaculate that it was weird. The same has been true of male or female bosses.
The question then becomes: Why do we think women should pick up the toys, fold the laundry and close the cabinets, while the guys watch their ballgame and drink their beer with a mess all around them? Humans are culture-creating and culture-living creatures. As children, we learn from parents, teachers and friends what is valued and for whom. If boys are allowed to have messy rooms because, well, they are just boys, they will quickly learn that boys can be messy, ignore the mess, and not be expected to restore order to it. If girls are told that they must clean up their rooms before they can do something they want, they learn other rules and other norms.
It really is true that what we see our mothers and fathers, and others, doing is what we mimic, in business and in life. It becomes embedded in our psyches, sometimes without our even realizing. If girls and women repeatedly hear that cleanliness is next to godliness, they will learn that making the bed, tidying the kitchen and cleaning up messes are positive reinforcements for how good and acceptable they are. Boys don’t learn this. In fact, if a boy neatly picks up his toys and then is called a sissy, what value judgement is that passing along?
So then, if you have a man in the house who repeatedly ignores the kids’ mess on the floor, think hard about what both of you are teaching your kids about personal responsibility, beyond neatness and messiness. You might during this at-home period be able to change their futures by providing them with unbiased values and beliefs about what men and women see and do. Remember, it is easier to change the kids than the guy. I would advise, though, that in your corrections to the latter, tread carefully but quickly, before the opportunity evaporates.
About Andi Simon
Andi Simon, Ph.D., author of the book Rethink: Smashing the Myths of Women in Business, is a corporate anthropologist and founder of Simon Associates Management Consultants. A trained practitioner in Blue Ocean Strategy®, Simon has conducted several hundred workshops and speeches on the topic as well as consulted with a wide range of clients across the globe. She also is the author of the award-winning book On the Brink: A Fresh Lens to Take Your Business to New Heights. Simon has a successful podcast, On the Brink with Andi Simon, that has more than 125,000 monthly listeners, and is ranked among the top 20 Futurist podcasts and top 200 business podcasts. In addition, Global Advisory Experts named Simons’ firm the Corporate Anthropology Consultancy Firm of the Year in New York – 2020. She has been on Good Morning, America and Bloomberg, and is widely published in the Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Forbes, Business Week, Becker’s, and American Banker, among others. She has been a guest blogger for Forbes.com, Huffington Post, and Fierce Health.
How the gambling houses have shaped the popular taste
The casino industry has evolved a lot over the last few centuries. In Europe during the 18th century, the underground gambling halls morphed into the first legal casinos. Eventually, the same thing happened in the United States, with Nevada’s fledgling Las Vegas providing entertainment for the workers of the nearby Hoover Dam.
From those sawdust-covered floors, modern casinos developed with names like the Golden Nugget in the 1940s. The giant integrated resorts we know today began springing up in the 1980s, and online casinos came into existence in the late 1990s.
Today, most of Europe and a growing number of US states have legalized online casinos, though New Jersey continues to lead the way on this side of the pond, with more than 23 online casinos to choose from in NJ.
At every stage along the way, these casinos have influenced pop culture, changing what we watch, what we read, and what we listen to.
Casino’s Influence on Language
You may be surprised at just how many casino-related words and phrases you use in your everyday conversations. Casino and card games have been around for the best part of a millennium, with blackjack being the descendent of several card games that go back as far as the 13th century AD.
Having been around for such a long time, words and phrases while playing these games have worked their way into the common vernacular.
For example, “hedging one’s bets” is a phrase we use regularly to explain when we’re not committing to one particular option to protect ourselves from a negative outcome. In betting, you may hedge your bets by wagering on two opposing outcomes, while in life you might take a job interview while staying at your old job until you see which is the better option.
All commonly used phrases include “all bets are off,” which can mean no one is sure about the outcome of an event; and “poker face,” which describes someone who is not displaying any emotion.
Casino’s Influence on Music
Speaking of poker faces, Lady Gaga’s hit song is one of the most recent examples of the influence of casino games in music. But there are plenty of others.
The country and western singer Garth Brooks had a hit with Two of a Kind Working on a Full House back in 1990. The song leaned heavily on references to poker hands to discuss his relationship with his wife (two of a kind) and the fact that they planned to build a life together (a full house). The song contained betting references all the way through, with links like “I’m her wild card man” and “a real hot hand.”
Other popular songs that have been created by the influence of casinos and casino games include The Gambler by Kenny Rogers, House of Cards by Tyler Shaw, and Ace of Spades by Motörhead.
Casino’s Influence on Movies
Perhaps the most obvious influence that casinos have had on popular culture is in movies. Hollywood loves to set a movie in Las Vegas and its casinos, with at least 92 movies set in the city since 1941.
Popular examples include Ocean’s Eleven (and its 21’st century remake), Viva Las Vegas, Diamond Are Forever, The Godfather, Casino, The Hangover, and 21.
Writers often find the excitement and mystery that casinos offer are a great setting for their stories, with films like Ocean’s Eleven and Casino entirely based around the inner workings of the gaming business.
Others, including many James Bond movies, use casinos in certain scenes as they offer a great way to show the characters outwitting their rivals. A casino setting is also one of the few places where a protagonist and villain could sit in the same room and talk without being forced to attack or fight each other.
“Artist To Look Out For” Malek Hanna Releases Debut Single, “Beautiful Stranger”
Watch the music video HERE.
We are delighted to publish this feature with Malek Hanna, a blue-eyed soul singer announcing his arrival on the LA music scene with the release of his debut single “Beautiful Stranger.” This is an artist to keep your eye on this year. Produced in collaboration with Camela Leierth – pop artist and co-writer for Katy Perry – “Beautiful Stranger” marks the culmination of years of growth and development for this Brooklyn born singer-songwriter, and the beginning of what will surely be his breakthrough year, having already been named “an artist to look out for” by Unique & Rare Magazine.
A lush and contemplative ballad that draws inspiration from Hanna’s Lebanese heritage, “Beautiful Stranger” questions and examines the concept of love in its myriad forms. In the reflective music video – directed by filmmaker and member of the Hollywood Foreign Press Ersi Danou and filmmaker/photographer Thouly Dosios – Hanna stars in three different roles, all walking a treacherous tightrope between fantasy and reality. The premiere coincides with the launch of Nadia’s Kids Inc., a non-profit formed by Hanna to honor his aunt and uncle, who both passed away from COVID-19 in their home of Aleppo, Syria, after having lived through the harrowing civil war of the past 10 years.
We spoke with Malek about his upbringing in Brooklyn, how his Lebanese heritage impacts his music, and his plans for the coming year. Read on below, and look out for more music from this breaking artist soon!
1) Malek, tell us a little bit about your background and upbringing. When did you start writing music?
I’m a New Yorker and proud of it! I was born and raised in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn – a residential neighborhood by the Verrazano Bridge. I have fond memories living there; playing stick ball on my uncle’s stoop, grabbing a pizza slice from my favorite pizza parlor – Ninos, attending the San Gennaro street festivals, going to the park to meet up with friends on the swings – being a kid amongst a heavily Italian, Irish, and Middle Eastern community gave me the grit to handle life with vigor. I always felt as though I had a competitive edge growing up in Brooklyn. I consider myself lucky having to call New York my home. My father was from Beirut, Lebanon and mother from Aleppo, Syria so I am a 1st generation American. Due to the civil war in Lebanon, my parents moved to the US and other family members scattered to other countries such as Germany, France, UAE and other parts of the US. Growing up, it gave us an excuse to travel frequently to visit family abroad and spend summers in the Mid-East and Europe. Growing up in a multicultural household and being able to converse and understand different languages and cultures was a big blessing but when I was younger, I didn’t always see it that way. When my mom made me a hummus sandwich at school, haha, I was embarrassed and wanted to be like all the other kids, I just wanted to fit in but always felt a bit out of place. So…I forced my mom to make me peanut butter and jelly sandwiches instead and I joined a lot of local sports activities like baseball, soccer, tennis and the swim team. I was pretty athletic as a kid and remember my 1st dream was to be a professional tennis player. Dreaming however, wasn’t always encouraged; being 1st generation and having relatively strict parents, there was a lot of pressure to be the best academically. They wanted me to be a doctor and quite honestly, it was the last thing I wanted to do. Since I was about 10 years old, I knew that I was a performer but felt I needed to keep it a secret because my parents wouldn’t approve. I was addicted to television and knew that I wanted to be like the people I saw on the screen performing. I would joke, play and be able to express myself more so outside of my immediate home. That time however did give me the desire to write; it was more like poetry or free write that led to creating melodies in my head and fantasizing about performing on stage. Nevertheless, my parents frequently had fun and lavish parties at the house and invited their neighborhood friends and colleagues. I remember always having to present myself properly and once asked about what I wanted to be, I would just regurgitate – I want to be a doctor, which was a complete lie. Anyhow, I digress…fast forward…my highschool years at Xavier in NYC gave me the creative outlet that I was so yearning for. It was an all boys private Jesuit school on 14th street; I remember having to wake up extra early so I can catch the subway from Brooklyn to Union Square. Those corridors in that school ignited a spark that I have till this day. I remember there were tryouts for the choir and I felt excited but also nervous; once I got there and I started to sing, it was as if nothing else mattered and I was floating on air, I felt fully alive. That was it…I was bit by the bug! Shortly thereafter, I started soloing at the church, getting lead roles in my highschool musicals, singing in the subway on my way too and from school and knew that is what I wanted and made me the most happy. At that time, my parents did not necessarily know that I was at drama rehearsal, I told them that the subway was late or that I was at, “science club” after school. All The while, I hired a private acting and singing coach with my allowance without them knowing…they blew up when I told them. Fastforward, I agreed to double major in Theater and Political Science at Fordham University to appease my parents and got a Masters in Media and Public Communications. That not being enough ha, I enrolled in ICU and got another degree in Culinary Management. I think at that point, my parents thought I would forget about my dream of being a performer but instead, I packed up and moved to LA. Overall, growing up in NYC was fun, and if it weren’t for the obstacles, I may not have been where I am now.
2) You have some Lebanese heritage but grew up in Brooklyn. How have those two cultures influenced your music and songwriting?
Being of Lebanese descent and growing up in Brooklyn influences my music and songwriting, as the fusion and richness of both cultures, rhythms, and sounds is something I like to create, as it truly tells my story and parallels who I am as an artist and as a person. In arabic music, there are neutral thirds while in wetserm music there are only major and minor ones. I want my music to represent me and the only way that is possible would be to incorporate and fuse these two worlds together into one. When you listen to Beautiful Stranger, you can hear the oud, for example – an ancient Arabic instrument. This instrument is reminiscent of my childhood, as my grandfather, Zaki Kneider, was a great oud player, amongst other instruments.
3) We love “Beautiful Stranger.” Can you tell us a little bit about the message behind the song?
Thank you so much! The message behind Beautiful Stranger ultimately is all about, “the search” and the recognition that the answers are ultimately within yourself. My intention with this song is to have people question, “this thing called love,” and its many forms. My inspiration for the song came from the need to connect, to be able to understand the power of love and all its forms.
4) You shot the music video for “Beautiful Stranger” in different locations around LA. What was the video shoot process like? Can you tell us anything about the video?
The filming process was a challenge! I had a shoe-string budget, a vision and a voice…I quickly put my producer hat on and started getting a team in place, all during Covid in Los Angeles, mind you. Nevertheless, overall, I am happy and grateful for my wonderful cast and crew. Ersi Danou and Thouly Dosios were my dynamite duo directors, Ted Hayash was a terrific DP and the cast was so supportive and encouraging. Acquiring permits, location scouting, scheduling, abiding by covid regulations etc was a lot to handle as the only producer on the project… on top of being the artist and performing. Due to Covid, locking in locations was probably the most difficult but by sheer tenacity, I was able to lock in the iconic Santa Monica pier. I hustled everyday to get food sponsors, freebies, waivers and would not take no for an answer. Funny side-note – my directors really wanted a full body manikin for the opening scene and finally a day before shooting I was able to get one; I drove to downtown LA and spotted one in a Korean market. I spoke with the owner basically in sign language since he and his wife didn’t speak much English and managed to have them agree to letting me use the manikin for the day with a $30 deposit. I guess they just trusted me, a random stranger….I off course returned it the next day after that day of shooting. It made me believe in humanity and the kindness of strangers. We shot for 4 entire days on the weekends and basically created a short film using iconic backdrops as the SM carrousel, downtown LA, Altadena and the LA river.
5) You’ve just released your debut single. What was the recording process like?
The recording process was fun! Working with a limited budget was a challenge but we made it work. After completing the final tweaks of the song with my writing partner, Raed Saade, I remember thinking…ok now studio time is going to be expensive, I have to find a way. I started thinking of who I can reach out too; my old roommate and friend Mikey Mike, who wrote for Rihanna and is an artist himself recommended – Steve Dresser who happened to have an in-home recording studio in his apartment in Koreatown. We met, vibed, got in the booth and layed down the vocals. I was in absolute bliss when I was in that room, despite it being 100 degrees since his AC went out and I was dripping sweat from head to toe. After laying the vocals and much deliberation with Steve and my producer, Xavier Cevrin who is based in Holland, we decided to add ancient instruments as the Oud with the acoustic and electric guitar to give a more worldly pop vibe. The writing process was a nice collaboration; prior to this song, I was not as confident with my songwriting but after encouragement from friends and industry pros, I just dove right in. Raed Saade, a fellow contestant and friend who was on the Voice with me, believed in me as a singer and supported me as a songwriter by contributing in co-writing Beautiful Stranger. We grabbed some beers, locked ourselves in my apartment and started brainstorming ideas, concepts, thoughts etc. Before I knew it, we had a nice rough draft in about an hour or so. It was all a learning experience for me, as prior to this, I performed on stage and was singing other people’s songs. I was thrilled to finally have something to sing and perform to claim my own!
6) We were so moved to read about the story behind Nadia’s Kids Inc. What are your plans for the non-profit in the coming years?
Thank you – it was something I felt I needed to do. There are so many children out there who suffer from PTSD and they simply do not have the proper resources to cope with the challenges they face as children, which then leads to major problems in adulthood. My plans in the coming years is to have an actual facility with different workshops and art programs that caters to their needs. In the meantime, I will actively be looking for qualified counselors, volunteers and artists to help in creating this program. My aunt Nadia and uncle Andreas will be missed, but never forgotten.
7) What can your fans expect from you this year?
I am in the process of collaborating once again with former Swedish pop star and Katy Perry collaborator, Camela Leierth on my EP that is set to be released sometime this year! While working on the EP, I have some really cool and exciting film projects and announcements in development, where I will be seen acting and singing. Stay tuned for more!!!
8) Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
I’m committed to expressing my artistry in different mediums, that I will be sharing in the coming years!
COVID GUIDANCE: The importance of TOP-DOWN CLEANING
Robin Wilson launched Robin Wilson Home in 2000 and created a conglomerate that covers eco-design, licensed products, interior design, and real estate development. Her brand has generated over $82 million in wholesale revenue from sales of cabinetry and textiles. She became the first Black woman with a line of hypoallergenic textiles sold nationwide at Bed Bath & Beyond (now in Wal-Mart), among other retailers. Her book, CLEAN DESIGN: Wellness for your Lifestyle was #1 on Amazon and focused on eco-friendly designs and hypoallergenic products for consumers.
Recently, the lifestyle expert introduced the practical aspect of Top-Down Cleaning. In this era of quarantines and lock downs, the last thing anyone wants to do is add to our work load – and a few simple tips will help you maintain a clean and healthier living space!
The Statistics
Sixty million Americans – that is one in five of us – have asthma and allergies. We sneeze, sniffle, and itch. Expose us to a whiff of dust, a gust of pollen, a sniff of perfume, or an encounter with an inquisitive dog or cat, and before we know it, our airways start to close up, and we begin to cough, wheeze or struggle to breathe.
With COVID in the air, the last thing we need is an inflammatory response. So cleaning your space has never been more important. Remember that asthma and allergies cannot be cured, but they can be managed. We can reduce symptoms by avoiding the allergens that trigger them. Unfortunately, the average home is full of allergy and asthma triggers, which means the place that should be your sanctuary can be a major source of allergenic triggers.
What is Top-Down Cleaning?
Most people create twice the cleaning work by first cleaning the floor, softa, tabletop or countertop and then cleaning the lights, ceiling fan or cabinets – only to see dust drift downward.
Solution: Clean from the top-to-bottom. In fact, if you have a second level, start upstairs and then work your way downstairs. Start at the highest point and make sure you have the following tools: paper towels, microstatic dust mitt/cloth, microstatic duster/floor sweeper, HEPA vacuum and a non-toxic cleaning solution. Cleaning solutions should include: baking soda, vinegar, toothpaste and Coca Cola.
Starting at the Top
We forget that walls are one of the largest surfaces in our spaces. Use a microstatic duster cloth/mitt to rub gently along the walls starting at the ceiling line and let the dust fall. As well, make sure to swipe over light receptables, ceiling fans or chandeliers.
Surfaces
Then clean the surfaces, starting with the highest-level lamp, bookcase, window treatments, cabinet or closet shelf. Allow dust/dirt to fall. As you work you way down, you will find that you need to vacuum or wipe down surfaces.
As mentioned earlier, there are a few tricks that involve cleaning solutions that are non-toxic.
1. Toilet Ring Solution: Pour Coca Cola into your toilet overnight, and use toilet brush in the morning and the stubborn ring will disappear (may have to be repeated dependent on the level of stain) by morning.
2. Crayon Marks: Use toothpaste. Smear on the mark and let sit for about 20 minutes. Using light brush strokes, and the crayon should be removed, or at least diminished.
3. Stained Baking Sheets: to make them look new, use vinegar and baking soda. Coat pan with baking soda. Pour a layer of white vinegar on top. You may see slight bubbling. Let sit for 4 hours. Use gloves and a brush in circular motion. Watch the surface start to look new.
Finish at the Floor
The last thing that you need to do in your space is clean the floor.
1. Make sure to invest in a HEPA filter vacuum as the dust and dirt is stored in a chamber (unlike older vacuum units that sometimes-added dust back into the space), and the canister can be emptied outside.
2. Before you clean, you might want to make sure that you remove rugs and shake them outside.
3. Run a microstatic dust cloth over the floor before you vacuum so that you can ensure that minimal dust flies around.
One tech solution that many working from home families are investing is an electronic robot vacuum that can be programmed to work during the day in various rooms. Some floor robot vacuums have HEPA filters, and can be a great option if you have a pet and want to make sure to limit buildup of dander and hair on your floor.
[SIDE BAR] For a space that follows CLEAN DESIGN protocols, it is important to replace a few items:
1. Change your older model vacuum to a HEPA vacuum to effectively limit dust in the space. Especially important if your home is near any location that had recent fires.
2. Change your vinyl shower liner to a nylon shower liner to minimize mold.
3. Review the window treatments and find options that can be laundered and are not ‘dust catchers’ or which can be easily vacuumed.
4. Replace your pillow after 3 years if it has not been washed frequently or covered with a zippered liner.
5. Think about using your window screens so that you can open your windows for 5 minutes daily.
SIDEBAR
Leading triggers include:
- Dust mites in beds and pillows
- Dander from pets
- Mold growth in walls, bathrooms and basements
- Pollen from outdoor trees and grasses in your hair that infiltrates your sleep space or living room sofa
- Fumes from cooking and chemical cleaners
- Toxic or environmentally unfriendly building materials that permeate indoor air
Remember, you can change that by using the strategies in the book, Clean Design: Wellness for your Lifestyle (Greenleaf, 2015). Create a healthy home environment that manages indoor air quality and protect your family from dust, mold, pollen, fumes, odors, airborne toxins, chemicals and other substances. Create a home environment that nurtures good health.
According to the American Lung Association, “poor indoor air quality can cause or contribute to the development of infections, lung cancer…headaches, dry eyes, nasal congestion, nausea, and fatigue” in anyone, not just those who suffer from asthma and allergies. We can all benefit from living in a more pure home environment.
More physicians are convinced that there is a link between environmental toxins, indoor air quality and allergies. Chemicals we are exposed to in our homes and offices have the power to make us sick, and we can improve our health and wellness using Clean Design principles.
Shopping for Hypoallergenic Options
The pandemic made both me and my clients realize that the CLEAN DESIGN HOME which sells our retail products is more important than ever – and that we should find non-toxic cleaning options and information for day-to-day living, especially since so many of us are working from home. I have pivoted to focus on building out the product line, and have just licensed our brand. So much information involves simple non-toxic options– the ideas are rooted in my bestselling book, Clean Design: Wellness for your Lifestyle.
About Robin Wilson
Her design projects including the White House Fellows office, a part of President Clinton’s Harlem office, and the rustic beach cottage of Robert DeNiro – each project had a very quick turnaround and exacting standards. She was named to the Top 100 Female Founders List in 2020 by INC magazine. Her eponymous licensed brands of textiles is sold at retail and hospitality. She is also in the process of creating Design+Build projects. She is author of two award-winning books: Clean Design She is the first woman with a branded line of custom cabinetry that was sold by over 400 independent kitchen dealers nationwide (2009-2018). First featured in Oprah’s magazines and extensive media coverage since 2005. In May 2013, her furniture line, Nest Home by Robin Wilson, premiered at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) in New York. In 2014, she partnered with consumer products giant Panasonic to promote their latest line of cutting edge products for the home.She is an ambassador to the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America, and previously served on the board of the Sustainable Furnishings Council.
6 Cool Entertainment Options for Partners Spending Lockdown Apart
To stay and keep our partners safe, the COVID-19 pandemic might require that we spend some time away from our partners. Being away from their partners can be agonizing for a lot of people and this is why you should try to find ways to connect with your partner every chance you get if you are not spending lockdown together. Below, we will look at some cool and creative entertainment options that you can enjoy alone or with your partner if you are forced to spend lockdown apart.
Listen to the Same Album/Playlist
Streaming services have come a long way and it is now possible to listen to whole albums through your phone and computer. An added advantage is the ability to share an album or playlist with your partner. By doing this, you can listen to the same album or music at the same time.
It might not be the same as spending time together physically, but it will bring you together.
Watch a Movie Together
As with listening to the same music, you can also watch the same movie with your partner. As you know, there are a plethora of streaming services to choose from. However, if you do not want or cannot afford to pay for a streaming service, there are still free movie streaming services such as Tubi that have a catalogue of original movies and shows you can enjoy together.
There is so much you can do with both of the ideas above including using them on a themed date night or a special night you would like to spend together.
Indulge in Some Casino Games
If you love casino games, you can try some of the new games that are being released by various developers to help people cope with long periods of self-isolation. The good thing about playing your favourite games at an online casino is that it is possible to invite your partner to the same casino so you can play a few games against each other. This is not only a great way to spend some time together, it is also a great way to have some fun and some light-hearted competition.
If your partner does not like casino games, you can still engage in some online gambling to have fun, and, if you are feeling competitive, to hopefully win some money. Regardless of whether you want to play slots games alone or with your partner, you should always ensure you are playing at a reputable online slots casino.
With innumerable casinos online available, you might find it confusing to find the right one. Fortunately, you can use online casino review websites to find information about the casinos you might be considering. Review websites such as Online Casino Reviews posts in-depth reviews of popular casinos in South Africa and all over the world. Whether you are looking to play card, table or slot games, Online Casino Reviews has all the information and reviews you need to make the right choice.
Have a Virtual Date Night
While you might not be physically together that does not mean you cannot go on dates, even if they have to be virtual dates. Virtual date night affords you the excuse to dress up, look nice, and rekindle the charm of being in the dating stage again.
The good thing about virtual dates is that as long as you have an internet connection, they can take place anywhere. Maybe you have a beautiful balcony overlooking the city? Or a patch of grass in your garden that you like? You are only limited by your creativity!
Make a Digital Photo Album
It is sad spending wells or months away from your partner, but you can remind yourself why you love them and what they mean to you by creating a digital photo album or a slide show.
Each of the photos included in the album or slideshow should be chosen for a reason. You can always do it together using a share album or folder on a cloud-hosting service. Looking at memories can be a great bonding experience for both of you and help you feel together even when you are apart.
Send Voice Memos
If you have been texting with your partner all day, sending them a voice memo is a fun and entertaining way to reach out to them. The good thing about voice memos is that they can be as long as you like and be about anything.
If you want to go a step further, you can always take a video and send it to your partner. This can come in handy when you do not have time to make a video call.
Spending some time apart during quarantine can make things feel worse than they really are. While it may not be possible to physically spend some time with your partner, you can still find creative, cool, and entertaining ways to spend some time together, although virtually.
15 Valentine’s Day Marketing Ideas for Your Boutique
By Joseph Heller
Love is in the air, gals… Valentine’s Day is almost here! If you’re new to owning an online boutique and this is the first Valentine’s Day you’ll be celebrating as a small business owner, the approach of February 14th might have you mainly thinking about what you’ll get for your significant other and (maybe even more so) what he or she will get for you. Or maybe you typically spend Valentine’s Day with your best single gal pals, eating chocolate and exchanging gifts. Instead use leading direct mail marketing services to drive more traffic and increase sales.
But Valentine’s Day isn’t all about love, romance, and cheesy cards. No matter how big or small your eCommerce business is, it can be a day that drives sales like no other – especially if you sell clothing, jewelry, or other gifts. In fact, it rivals only Christmas in consumer spending. If you play your cards right, the days surrounding Valentine’s Day could make up one of your best sales weeks of all time.
Of course, competing with major retailers isn’t easy, least of all on Valentine’s Day. Stores all over the country are spending thousands of dollars on Valentine’s marketing, trying to get people to buy their gifts from them. Sure, you could have an incredible selection of Valentine’s gifts and accessories, available for great prices – but if nobody knows about your shop, it won’t do you any good in the end.
If you’re going to drive both new and existing customers to your shop for their Valentine’s shopping, you’ve got to get creative about your Valentine’s Day marketing. Read on to learn 15 affordable Valentine’s Day marketing ideas for your boutique – and why you really should care to do something special for this holiday in the first place.
Valentine’s Day and eCommerce
The numbers are clear – Americans spend a whole lot of dough on Valentine’s Day. The average American celebrating Valentine’s Day spent $196.31 on Valentine’s Day in 2020, adding up to a total of $27.4 billion spent on the holiday in 2020. Trends show that number only heading upwards – 2020 spending was up 32% from 2019.
Of course, that’s just the big picture – and not all of that money is being spent in boutiques like yours. Here are a few other stats you should be aware of that paint the picture of consumer spending on Valentine’s Day, based on 2020 numbers:
- 32% buy Valentine’s Day gifts from discount stores.
- Men spend nearly three times as much as women on Valentine’s Day.
- $5.8B was spent on Valentine’s Day jewelry
- $4.3B was spent on a Valentine’s Day night out
- $2.4B was spent on Valentine’s Day chocolate
- $2.3B was spent on flowers
- $2B was spent on Valentine’s Day gift cards
- $1.3B was spent on Valentine’s Day greeting cards
- 45% of adults didn’t celebrate Valentine’s Day
- 15% of Americans buy themselves a present on Valentine’s Day
- Americans spend an average of $12.21 on Valentine’s Day gifts for their pets
With all of that shopping and spending going on during the Valentine’s Day season, you’ll want to make sure your business ends up with even a small sliver of that massive pie. Running holiday-themed campaigns and upping your marketing efforts leading up to Valentine’s Day will help you keep your boutique fresh in people’s minds and increase the chances that they go straight to you once it’s time to shop for their Valentine’s Day gifts.
15 Valentine’s Day Marketing Ideas for Small Businesses
Don’t have a huge marketing budget? No problem – with time, effort, and the right direction, you can still get your boutique’s awesome Valentine’s Day gifts and products in front of the right people. Here are 15 Valentine’s Day marketing ideas for small businesses that you can implement for little or no money.
- Send a themed email marketing campaign
Instead of generic email newsletters or sale messages, send a themed Valentine’s Day email that’s all about love, friendship, and gift-giving. Drive your audience to your website with gift suggestions and fun Valentine’s-themed wordplay. (You know… “love is in the air,” “we will always love you,” “gifts with heart,” etc!) For more tips on how to use email marketing to grow your boutique, click here.
- Host a contest
Embrace the holiday and host a fun couples contest or giveaway on your boutique’s social media page. Don’t be afraid to get creative! Have participants recreate a photo, do a challenge, coordinate an outfit together using a piece from your shop – whatever sounds like a good time. Then, have your audience vote for their favorite entrant on Valentine’s Day. (No need to exclude single people from this one – you could welcome entries from couples, BFFs, family members, etc.)
- Run “couples” deals
How do you make a BOGO deal more festive? Call it a couples deal, or a two for one deal! Choose a selection of Valentine’s Day items that you’ll put on sale, whether it’s chocolates, earrings, or pink scrunchies. Encourage them to gift the extra item to their significant other, give one to their BFF for Galentine’s Day, or just keep it for themselves as a token of your love for them!
- Partner with another small business
Community over competition, right ladies? Partner with a local business and share the love. It could be another online boutique or a local business that doesn’t directly compete with yours but has a similar clientele, like a florist or a nail salon. Offer a combined Valentine’s Day gift package of your products/services and theirs. This is an especially great idea if you have a strong local presence (or if you’re interested in making it stronger!)
- Celebrate Galentine’s Day
Don’t sleep on Galentine’s Day! Coined by Leslie Knope from the TV show Parks and Recreation, Galentine’s Day is a day reserved for celebrating female friendships. It takes place the day before Valentine’s Day, February 13th. To celebrate, bundle a few of your most popular items offer curated gift packages that’d be perfect to gift to a best friend. You could also offer a discount when they multiple of the same item to gift to their friends.
- Have a V-Day themed photoshoot
Create some fun Valentine’s Day photos to post on your social media accounts leading up to the big day. You could take photos of couples wearing your clothing, flat lays of all of the red and pink items you carry, or outfit inspo photos against a red or a pink backdrop.
- Create a Valentine’s Day gift guide
You and I both know how hard it can be to shop for people – especially your significant other. Make the whole V-day shopping experience a little less stressful by putting together a list of gift ideas and sharing it on your company blog.
No need to have every single item come from just your shop – in fact, it might be more helpful and comprehensive if you scour other local or small boutiques as well and feature their products in your guide. (It’s a great way to open the door to new networking relationships, too!) If you’re feeling up to it, you could create multiple gift guides with different people in mind – for her, for him, for mom, for Galentine’s Day, for your pet, etc.
- Send a card
Everyone loves getting mail! Send your past and present customers a real-life Valentine via snail mail. No need to be salesy – the point of this is to show your customers how much you appreciate them and that you’re even thinking about them on the day dedicated to love. Include a coupon to be used in-store or a unique promo code to thank them for showing you and your store love throughout the years.
- Share the love
Turn your social media into even more of a community. Invite your audience to share their love stories with you, whether through DMs or by using a certain hashtag in their posts. You can make this as sappy or spicy as you want to – feel free to mix things up a bit by also asking people to send you their worst or funniest dating stories as well! Once you’ve compiled submissions, feature your favorites in your stories. It’ll keep the rest of your audience engaged and help participants feel even more involved in your brand.
- Show the love locally
Valentine’s Day is all about sharing the love. What better way to do that than by giving back to the people who need it most? Celebrate Valentine’s Day by hosting a service project, donating products from your store to a local organization, or pledging to donate a certain percentage of your profits in the weeks surrounding Valentine’s Day.
Make sure to advertise this throughout your social channels and your website so your customers know how much good their purchases are doing. Not only will you be able to make a real difference in your community, but you’ll also be able to involve your customers in your charity work.
- Highlight date night outfits
People don’t just spend money on gifts during the Valentine’s Day season. They also spend money on themselves, buying clothing, lingerie, date night jewelry, and more. Put together a few fabulous Valentine’s Day outfits using products from your boutique and share a few outfit inspo photos on social media. Be sure to group those products together on your website so your customers can easily purchase everything they need to recreate the outfit.
- Don’t alienate single people
For people who aren’t currently in a relationship, Valentine’s Day feels a whole lot more like Singles Awareness Day. Why not go out of your way to show them a little love, too? Don’t leave single people out of all the Valentine’s Day fun – consider running some sort of promo just for them. Run a sale on self-care items that make treat yo’ self gifts, like bath bombs, jade rollers, and (of course) chocolate. You could do this in conjunction with your regular Valentine’s Day promotions or the week before.
- Be clear about shipping deadlines
Some people plan ahead of every holiday and finish their gift-shopping weeks in advance – but most people tend to be last-minute Valentine’s Day shoppers. Of course, placing a last-minute order from your online boutique on February 13th probably isn’t going to work out for them. Add a banner to your site reminding shoppers of the Valentine’s Day delivery deadline. Be clear and realistic about shipping cutoffs to receive items by Valentine’s Day. Encourage people to buy early, especially with COVID-related shipping delays making package deliveries even more unreliable than usual.
- Make a Valentine’s Day video
When it comes to commanding your audience’s attention, video is one of the very most effective marketing tools out there. Rather than just snapping a few photos of your new Valentine’s Day products, create a video showcasing your favorite Valentine’s Day outfits or gift ideas. You could create a short-form vertical video using IG reels or TikTok, or share a longer informative video on YouTube, Facebook, or IGTV.
- Host a Giveaway
Spread the love with an exciting giveaway. Partner with other small businesses in your community or your niche to give something away. It could be a romantic couple’s getaway with flowers, a hotel stay, and a new outfit, a date-night-in package with a dress, a romantic candle, chocolates, and a voucher for fancy takeout, or an epic Valentine’s Day shopping spree. Just make sure it’s somewhat Valentine’s Day related, whether with what you’re giving away, how you enter, or even just with the images and language you use to introduce it.
While implementing these Valentine’s Day marketing ideas might take some serious thought and strategizing, with a little effort they can pay off in a big way.
Now that you have a few great ideas on how you can encourage your customers to shop with you this Valentine’s Day, make sure you’ll have enough Valentine’s Day gifts and outfit ideas in stock ahead of time. Click here for 15 wholesale boutique items you’ll want to stock up on for Valentine’s Day.
