Wednesday, December 19, 2018

A Modern Day Christmas Carol


Joanna Joy Vintage Christmas Victorian Style Christmas velvet French settee burgundy lace chandelier poinsettia
Hello there! Merry Christmas to you!  




A Stylish Love Story Blog California lifestyle blogger Joanna Joy Vintage Christmas Victorian Style Christmas velvet French settee burgundy lace chandelier poinsettia
Who are you celebrating with this year?


A Stylish Love Story Blog California lifestyle blogger Joanna Joy Vintage Christmas Victorian Style Christmas velvet French settee burgundy lace chandelier poinsettia
It's time to get the party started.


A Stylish Love Story Blog California lifestyle blogger Joanna Joy Vintage Christmas Victorian Style Christmas velvet French settee burgundy lace chandelier poinsettia
Where is my Love?


A Stylish Love Story Blog California lifestyle blogger Joanna Joy Vintage Christmas Victorian Style Christmas velvet French settee burgundy lace chandelier poinsettia
It looks like it's just me and my books.

The lesson I learned this year is that we should be coming home and cooking and eating dinner with our families instead of working so much overtime.

We should be enjoying life instead of Instagramming every second of it.

We should spend more time cuddling in each others arms instead of always being too busy.

 You don't want to miss out on what really matters in life, finding love and happiness with the person of our dreams:)

Don't waste time, you only live once!

Dress: Vintage
Photography: Kendra Blair
Set Decoration: Joanna Joy
Decorations: Michaels and Jo-Ann



Sunday, December 2, 2018

Sharing Positive and Inspirational Messages with PleaseNotes by Cheryl Sutherland



Cheryl Sutherland founder of PleaseNotes
Cheryl Sutherland, Founder of PleaseNotes

Hello! Today I would like to introduce you to Cheryl Sutherland, the founder of PleaseNotes.  I recently met her at the Female Founders section of the Wonder Woman Tech Conference in Long Beach, California.  The positivity in these notes and journal immediately spoke to me.  Her products are focused around personal growth principles with the themes of Confidence, Clarity, and Creativity.  Her specialty item is the PleaseNotes Guided Affirmation Journal touted as a “Personal Growth Seminar in between two covers” and 10% of the proceeds from PleaseNotes goes to organizations that support women in creating their dreams!  Nice:)

Now let’s get positive with Cheryl from PleaseNotes…

Please Nots Sticky Notes


Hello Cheryl!  Thank you for joining us on the blog today.  Can you please tell us about your background (work, school, hobbies, etc.)?

Certainly!  I was born in Calgary, Canada and have always found myself in occupations that allow me to interact with and help people. From retail sales, banking, coaching all the way to this!  I went to school for Sales and Marketing with a focus on Marketing Management, and have gone through a plethora of personal development courses and training.

Cheryl Sutherland founder of PleaseNotes entrepreneur positive inspirational messages personal growth journaling journal positive affirmations mirror decals
Mirror Mirror Decal Affirmations


What are PleaseNotes and who are they for?

PleaseNotes is a brand of Affirmation-Filled Goods to help people become their favorite versions of themselves.  I feel like PleaseNotes are great for anyone that is attempting to feel better or be better. Whether your looking to change jobs, be more fulfilled or feel happier then you do now, PleaseNotes are for you.

Label of Love Cheeky Collection Reusable Water Bottle Stickers PleaseNotes Cheryl Sutherland
Label of Love Cheeky Collection Reusable Water Bottle Stickers
What steps did you take to go from a place of trying to figure out what you were passionate about to being an entrepreneur?

I knew I was ready to start something new, however, I knew that the person I was wasn’t going to be in the right space to build something and see it through.  I wanted to work on my sense of self, my confidence and really getting clear on what I was really passionate about.  I ended up quitting my job and building up the person I really wanted to be through working with affirmations, journaling and delving back into personal development work. I realized that I was always lit up when I participated in personal development work and that I wanted to do!

Cheryl Sutherland founder of PleaseNotes entrepreneur positive inspirational messages personal growth journaling journal positive affirmations blue journa
Inspirational PleaseNotes Journal

What inspired you to start PleaseNotes?

When I had been going through the process of discovering what kind of business I wanted I wrote out a list of attributes of what the business was, what I wanted to do, be and feel while working. Some of those included being a product that I can sell in stores and online, something that helped people, something that was playful and fun and something I could do on my laptop by the beach. When I said to myself, I wish there was a way that I could surround myself with affirmations, I was able to recognize that my idea was the business I was looking for.

Cheryl Sutherland founder of PleaseNotes entrepreneur positive inspirational messages personal growth journaling journal positive affirmations purple journal
Inspirational PleaseNotes Journal


I see that you describe the PleaseNotes Journal as a “Personal Growth Seminar in between two covers”, can you please tell us more about your journal?

The Journal takes a person through a journey of self-discovery.  My goal was to empower people with the tools to create the change they’ve been wanting themselves versus seeking the answers externally. It really mirrors the process I went through to discover my passion and my business To get people started, they would use the “Journal Juice” workbook that has 6 different exercises that support a person in seeing and appreciating who they are and the life they have, what they would want to change in their lives and what they really want to created and leave behind.  Every page has a different affirmation or inspirational quote that’s been chosen to be inspirational and relatable.  Quotes include Michelle Obama, Brené Brown, Drake, Elon Musk, Adele and Eckhart Tolle.  I wouldn’t be able to tell you how many times people have told me that when they are writing about something or working through a situation that the perfect message shows up at the bottom of the page. If you’re ready to get really clear, really fast, this Journal is for you.  Plus, you can always download and redo the work book as many times as you would like for no cost.

Cheryl Sutherland founder of PleaseNotes entrepreneur positive inspirational messages personal growth journaling journal positive affirmations purple journal
Inspirational PleaseNotes Journal

How do positive PleaseNotes messages help people who are trying to accomplish a goal, increase their self-esteem and self-confidence, and where are the best places to put these happy feel good notes?

When you want to change or build a habit or thought process, it takes repetition and emotional involvement. A person gets started in their Journal however in surrounding yourself with continued reminders, you keep yourself in the feeling of what you want versus where you currently are.  That’s why putting messaging in Sticky Notes, Mirror Decals, Water Bottle Labels and Enamel Pins are so fun because it’s easy to see and share with others. 

Cheryl Sutherland founder of PleaseNotes
Cheryl Sutherland, the inspiration behind PleaseNotes


Cheryl Sutherland founder of PleaseNotes entrepreneur enamel pins positive inspirational messages personal growth journaling journal positive affirmations buttons pins
Empowering Enamel Pins 

When I was browsing through your website, I saw that you have a #HustleKit , can you tell us what’s in there?

Yes! So I created the #HustleKit to be a little sampler of all the items in the main line.  Curated for existing entrepreneurs or those looking to dip into entrepreneurship (wantrapreneurs) it even includes exclusive items like a super cool pen that says “I’m choosing to be…”  and 4 great tips with videos to help people draw out an idea, handle and use stress, set goals and more.

Cheryl Sutherland founder of PleaseNotes #hustlekit hustlekit entrepreneur positive inspirational messages personal growth journaling journal positive affirmations


What other products do you offer and what new products do you plan to come out with in the future?

Right now I have the full sized Journal in some fab new colors, the “Mirror Mirror” Mirror Decals that are great for windows, walls and mirrors, the “Label of Love” which are dual-sided affirmation Water Bottle Labels, the new “Brightly” enamel pins and the Sticky Notes, which have a different affirmation on each page! Next up, I’m actually re-opening my coaching practice! I focus on Optimism and Authenticity for two reasons; when you decide things are going to work out for you, you are able to solve problems quicker, be less stressed and be more creative and Authenticity is essential for building anything you want to be long lasting, making clearer decisions, and building a life from your intuition and internal power versus your head.

Are there any final words of wisdom that you’d like to share?

Let yourself be happy, do the things that spark your curiosity,  say yes to what you want and self-doubt isn’t real.

Cheryl Sutherland founder of PleaseNotes
Cheryl Sutherland

Where can we find you?

www.CherylSutherland.com

Thank you Cheryl for sharing your positivity with the rest of us!

Thank you!!

Saturday, December 1, 2018

Volunteering with Convoy of Hope


Volunteers Volunteering Volunteer Convoy of Hope building community Los Angeles California feeding the homeless hope kindness klove national breast cancer foundation Ted Watkins Memorial Park
Hello! How are you doing today? Do you enjoy volunteering in your community? What do you enjoy doing to give back? Over the past few years, I have had a great time volunteering with Convoy of Hope at Ted Watkins Memorial Park in Los Angeles, California.  At this event they served meals, provided free shoes, groceries, health and dental screenings, haircuts, family portraits, and much more to the community of Los Angeles. Hope Starts Here.
Volunteers Volunteering Volunteer Convoy of Hope building community Los Angeles California feeding the homeless hope kindness klove national breast cancer foundation Ted Watkins Memorial Park
Convoy of Hope is a faith-based humanitarian organization is helping to empower others to live independent lives free from poverty, disease, and hunger.
 A Passion to Feed the World @ Convoyofhope.org

Volunteers Volunteering Volunteer Convoy of Hope building community Los Angeles California feeding the homeless hope kindness klove national breast cancer foundation Ted Watkins Memorial Park
Our community event was held at Ted Watkins Memorial Park in Los Angeles, CA and the sunshine was definitely shining down on all of us today:)


Volunteers Volunteering Volunteer Convoy of Hope building community Los Angeles California feeding the homeless hope kindness klove national breast cancer foundation Ted Watkins Memorial Park
Changing the world through Kindess:)


Volunteers Volunteering Volunteer Convoy of Hope building community Los Angeles California feeding the homeless hope kindness klove national breast cancer foundation Ted Watkins Memorial Park
This Saturday I had a great time volunteering with @convoyofhope and meeting all of the wonderful women in the Los Angeles community @ Ted Watkins Memorial Park. Our tent shared information with women on self- breast exams from the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.


It was nice that the National Breast Cancer Foundation provided instructions on self-breast examination in both English and Spanish. That was so sweet and thoughtful!


Volunteers Volunteering Volunteer Convoy of Hope building community Los Angeles California feeding the homeless hope kindness klove national breast cancer foundation Ted Watkins Memorial Park
Here are some pink bags of Hope from the National Breast Cancer Foundation.




Volunteers Volunteering Volunteer Convoy of Hope building community Los Angeles California feeding the homeless hope kindness klove national breast cancer foundation Ted Watkins Memorial Park
If you'd like to find out more on how to get involved and volunteer, please check out their website
 Volunteer for Convoy of Hope


Volunteers Volunteering Volunteer Convoy of Hope building community Los Angeles California feeding the homeless hope kindness klove national breast cancer foundation Ted Watkins Memorial Park
Look at the back of this beautiful truck from Convoy of Hope. Who else listens to positive, encouraging KLOVE radio?     


Volunteers Volunteering Volunteer Convoy of Hope building community Los Angeles California feeding the homeless hope kindness klove national breast cancer foundation Ted Watkins Memorial Park


Where do you currently volunteer?  If so, why do you volunteer and what do you enjoy most about your volunteer experience?
If not, where will you volunteer this year?  
There is no greater feeling than the feeling we receive from giving back to our communities through service.   
Please leave your comments below, I'd love to hear from you:)

Sunday, November 25, 2018

Meaningful Mondays- We Are All Worthy

Joanna Joy A Stylish Love Story Blog worthy mental health awareness happiness trauma forgiveness inspirational quotes happiness inspiring quotes meaningful Mondays


Aloha Everyone! 

I wanted to share this quote with you today. No matter what trauma you've been through in your past, just know that you are worthy of love and happiness. Sending out my love and hugs to you today:)

xoxo Joanna

Friday, November 16, 2018

Holiday Celebration Table Decor from NgLp Designs

nglp designs nathalie glickstein and letizia Petti design firm table designs placemats table decor wedding decorations Canada
Founders of NgLP Designs: Nathalie Gluckstein and Letizia Petti

Hello!  I have the fabulous duo Nathalie Gluckstein and Letizia Petti from NgLP designs on the blog today.  Thank you for sharing your time with us today. When I first saw your beautiful selections of table décor on Instagram, I had to stop and scroll. I’ve never seen such unique designs. 


What types of table décor do you offer and who designs them?
NgLp Designs offers;
  • Bespoke Placemats
  • Desk Laurels 
  • POCKET  for The Table — Decorative for message inserts and napkin holder.  
  • POCKET Decorative holder for storage of makeup brushes
  • DESIGN Gift Bags —  for wedding gifts, bonbonniere, hostess gifts, or as a pretty wine, shoe, garment or lingerie bag.
 We are the exclusive designers of our products. We source all our fabrics, appliqués; design and oversee production for all our products with our talented team of trades.




Tell me about yourselves and how you started NGLP designs?

NgLp Designs is the design team of Nathalie Gluckstein and Letizia Petti. Nathalie's brings her love for interior design, décor, skill and experience; owner of Nathalie Gluckstein Interiors.


Letizia brings her graphic design expertise, interior design, social media and digital marketing; owner of Letizia Petti Design Inc.

We came together for the love of table décor

In 2012, we launched our first line of bespoke placemats at The DelecTABLE Design Show held in Toronto, Canada.
This was our first opportunity to showcase a dining installation among other Toronto Designers.


The Thanksgiving holiday is coming up and I know you are based in Canada. What traditional or family dishes do you serve at your Thanksgiving table, and what is your favourite Thanksgiving dish?

Given our cultural backgrounds, Canadian, Israeli and Italian, as well as being influenced by our Neighbours to The South, our Thanksgiving menu changes from year to year.

To us, Thanksgiving is about coming back to the table, enjoying that time with those seated with us, giving thanks for our many blessings received over the year.

Decorating the Harvest Table is important to us — thoughtful design sets the tone and carries the overall experience in a different direction from year to year. It conveys that we value those gathering with us; that they are important and that is why we put in the extra effort. We do set our table with love, on many levels and our Design is reflected in our setting and throughout our dishes and display.

We posted this Thanksgiving message that resonates with us;

Wherever you gather at the table to give thanks, 
may you be surrounded with love, kindness and the warmth of togetherness.
Happy #thanksgiving from our table to yours
#setthetablewithlove 
#thankful 




What is your favourite part of celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday?
      

Because Thanksgiving falls during the changing of the seasons, taking in all of Autumn's splendour is what both of our families enjoy most. Seeing beautifully decorated tables, enjoying long walks after a wonderful dinner,  the atmosphere of a warm fireplace, being surrounded by the warmth and joy of family and friends, the acceptance of another good year coming to an end; the fruits of our labour.




I saw that you posted a lovely pink Instagram post about an anti-bullying campaign that reads “In a world that you can be anything, be kind.” 
Can you tell me a little more about that?

Kindness is full-circle — when you treat people with respect and kindness, life has a way of returning in kind.

Our Instagram post was in support of Pink Shirt Day (Anti-Bullying Day) when people wear a pink shirt to symbolise taking a stand against bullying (in schools, communities and online). This idea originated in Canada 11 years ago when two Nova Scotia high school students, David Shepherd and Travis Price (Founder of Pink Day, Bullying Prevention Advocate) decided to take a stand against bullying in their own school.

We believe in supporting people who champion worthy causes. When we can, we participate in fundraisers which are near and dear to our hearts.


{ Photo Suggestion — 
• Reuse the anti-bullying graphic
• Photo of Nathalie Gluckstein w/ Eugene Levy — Parachute Canada bringing awareness to preventable injuries and saving lives. #momswhocare for their #kidswholovesports!

#parachutegala 

#braininjury

#concussion



Where do you draw inspiration from?

From everyday living — our personal experiences, through travel, Mother Nature and her beautiful colours; from other talented designers, architecture — all fields in art + design. 

One of our favourite quotes:
"Creativity is the way I share my soul with the world." (Brené Brown) 
"Creative isn't the way I think, it's the way I like to live." ( Paul Sandip)





What do you feel is the most important aspect of working as a team of women entrepreneurs?

We recently posted to our Instagram account that which best represents our view of a team;

We are not A TEAM because we work together.
We are a team because we respect, 
trust and care for each other.

As women entrepreneurs, we are both working mothers who love what we do and enjoy the balance of work, play and lots of laughter and creativity.
We express our love for design via our own custom luxe table mats + accessories, all handcrafted in our metropolitan city of Toronto; utilizing modern faux skins and high-grade textiles that we source from all over the world.



What is your favourite memory of working in décor so far?

The launch of NgLp Designer Placemats at the Toronto DelecTABLE Design Show, where it all started.
That show connected us with media, subsequently being recognized and published in Style at Home MagazineStyle NEWS, December 2012 Entertainment issue.



Jessica Waks writes: “When it comes to holiday entertaining, add drama and polish to your table settings with texture, shape and patterns. Handmade placemats by NgLp Designs are embellished with grommets and other design details, are wipeable for easy cleanup.”



Players Penthouse for World Cup of Hockey in 2016  meeting invited media, hockey players and their families at undisclosed downtown Toronto location.



Letizia Petti and Joe Thornton from the San Jose Sharks NHL 




Our Trunk Shows are a lovely way to represent our new product lines and to mingle with those who appreciate setting a beautiful table.Being recognized by our Clients, Boutiques and Showrooms that love and carry our merchandise.

Letizia Petti and Frederik Anderson from the Toronto Maple Leafs


Letizia Petti and MaxPacioretty NHL Vegas Golden Knights 



Letizia Petti and Brent Burns from NHL San Jose Sharks 

Where can we find you?

We love the Instagram community and wonderful support they have given us over the years,
the best platform to illustrate our work and connect with the community.

Instagram: nglpdesigns
Web Site:  www.nglpdesigns.com


We’ve had exceptional opportunities and the good fortune to have high-end stores carry our collections over the years. 
La Compania
Hillhome
Papergrafix

SouthHill Home