OK - the kids are making me hide!

While I am putting together this fantastical audacious and magical business plan - I can't help but to tell you guys the in's and out's of doing this with 4 "free-range" children.
I was on the phone with a good PR friend (mother of 1), of mine and telling her about my new adventure as a "Stay-at-home-Mom, Home-Schoolmaster, Designer, Writer, Wife, Lover, Food burner (really I am NO good with the oven UNLESS it involves Salmon or cakes...), etc., etc.”,.  And I am telling her that it is challenging to do this while I am constantly screaming at one kid, training another, teaching my oldest girl how to "pointe" her toes while dancing, turning up Yo, Gabba, Gabba (that show rocks), breaking up fights, cleaning up after a 1 year old's fascinationwith "let's throw the DVD's around" and the occasional crying over spilled milk - lliterally. She thinks I should film the fiasco. At any given moment you can find me curled up in a ball amid the madness...Well, at least my husband has. And he just steps right over me and shakes his head! - He tries.
I kid you not - every time I sit down at this computer, my lovely little 1 year old, Bird sees an opportunity to start crying...for what? I never know what! I think she see's the computer as an evil force that has taken control of her Mommy! She takes the mouse, she wants to type, she turns the computer off! You, know the little round blue button that is soooo attractive to babies. They should change that glowing wonder-ness. And don't get me started on my youngest son, Tech. He is undergoing the middle-child syndrome when in fact I did not think there was a middle-child in an even set of kids...
And when I get on the phone - watch out! It is like they all have a condition - "Mommy, my head hurts, "- He hit me” , “Mommy, Mommy...Mommy!" It reaches a crescendo, a chorus of loudness at a time when listening and understanding requires absolute, quite-ness! And so - I run! I run anywhere I can. Into the bedroom and lock the doors, hopefully the muffled "Mommy's" cannot be heard. I run out the back door, through the dog area and into the woods! I run out the bedroom sliding doors that lead to the back yard - but the older ones, Littles and Leo - race from the front door to meet me. If they do, I give them the glare - you know, the look of "You better leave me alone!" And they take off running back inside. I take off running and hide with the horses, or however far the phone will range.
My brother-in-law's wife thinks that that is why I cannot keep the baby weight on. I am constantly running after or away from the kids! Trust me the scene is instantly hilarious. The moment little Bird starts the cry I call on my husband and like a switch, she shuts off - it's the Father's secret weapon that Mother's just don't posses. Once I hid in the closet while on the phone with my writing partner and the kids had found a way to attempt to trash the place. And the Husband was furious -

"Why are you in the closet?" He yelled.
"Because I am trying to talk on the phone and it's important!" -
"Who hides in a closet? How can you know what's going on?" 
Well, I replied "-That's the point!"

Now I don't want you to think I have a horde of uncontrollable children - well, let's just say that when I am in the zone - I have control over NOTHING! I cannot manage all things the same when I am zoning like I am on this business plan. I am a whole other person that can't understand where all these kids came from!

When I come to, I realize that they are ALL my children! But no matter what I am working on, no matter how stressful they make me at times (the eye-twitches), they are my wonderful, funny, loving, growing at a rapid-rate, sponges and they take in everything so I have to be careful that they don't see me freak out, I LOVE MY KIDS! They drive us insane, there is never a day to ourselves in our own bed - broken back and all, our kids are our lifeline and we wouldn't change that for the world. And yes, they do make me hide! And at this very moment, Bird is crying out “'mon, Mommy, 'mon, Mommy...” and I can hear my husband in the background yelling “Song Bird! Shut...”

Color Story

Dear Everyone reading this blog,


I went to the SBA office on August 2nd and let me tell you that it took me 2 days to recuperate! But it was a great meeting and I walked away with some viable information about forming business structures in California and the tax benefits that are attached.

Anywho, I have a long list to check off and I am giving myself, with the help of the SBA rep, 4 months to plan this whole thing out. First thing was first - to secure the online entity. As it stands both http://www.thegraycorp.com/ and http://www.mylltb.com/ are parked (with go daddy) and the domain names are clear. We went with "mylltb" because the abbreviation will get folks to our site faster and the word "my" personalizes things and is totally kid friendly. There are other do-dads that must be done and to protect the interest of my company - I am moving this blog within the next coming month so that everything I write is legally secure and relates back to the company. And I want to put in the plug that the very base of this brand is set on technology and the invention of the insole...did I say, invention? Yes, that is what we did. We invented something that is vital to our shoes and that speaks very loud. Having that government ID number on our patent is the best thing we ever did for this journey. It gives the brand a certain level of distinction and integrity. So together with some knock out details, the websites will launch in the turn of the year first as a place to land this blog and then to offer product. This way we create a following and a place where the customer's have a voice and can see the brand evolve. That is the plan.

Meanwhile on the more creative side; Usually when you plan a collection you have an inspiration to follow and it can be a range of colors or fabrication. For me it is never in any order. I developed a color pallet first - however I was totally inspired by the property we live on and the color breakdown of the sky at sunrise and sunset. The sky explodes with color just before it goes down with oranges, blues and greens and when it comes up there are some purple and pink hues as well. It's beautiful. So I put that element into a color story.

I put a few color pallets together with the fall 2010 launch in mind...This is showing you how meticulous we are on fashion branding and how I am a strict believer in concept development. It also shows you all that although a line for children - we take color and style very seriously.

 Tell me what you think about the boards?


 Do you like the direction?


 Can you see yourself wearing shoes with these color pallets?


 

Thanks for reading - I have a plan to expand!

tg

Webmaster!!!

I drew this unicorn for Leotie and created the lineart on Adobe Illustrator. She filled in the colors on the computer...well, I helped.

This company will be in the business of online retail and manufacturing. We are in a new age and there is no turning back...well unless we all find the TRUTH behind our government's capability to supply us with the World Wide Web and the usage of energy... However it is here and no business person can live or operate without it. So I thought about taking a course on website design and development for the lltb site. I think it is a smart move because I can build the site and maintain it while we are in our beginning stages and perhaps hire an intern to help in the process. I joined a group on e-commerce business structure and it is very informative. When I was at Ed Hardy shoes I had the pleasure of working with a webmaster who was very talented and creative. When we developed the website for the Elvis shoes, we worked closely together to get across the correct look along with the marketing department. Well I am well rounded in both fields and I may be able to pull this off.
I reached out to my agents today and awaiting to hear back from them if they are willing to work with me on developing the insole and not the line as we spoke about only 2 weeks ago. It is possible that they may not want to commit to develop a single insole - they make money from a production order, not side gigs. So I may have to moc this insole up myself or try my other angle in Vietnam for help. However I'd like to stay in Brazil. I am hoping my agents will continue to support the mission and at least tell me the price to make the mold. I estimate it to be $1500. I also reach ed out to a good friend of mine who I'd like to be apart of my marketing campaign, to let her know also that I am developing the insole first. I suspect that the year 2010 will reveal the trends in the industry pending the "recession" we are currently in. As it is now the footwear industry is on edge. Even the trade show organizers have lost their minds. 2 of the industries prominent shows are being held at the same time: WSA in Vegas and Ffany in New York. This will take place in February 2010 - the results of the impact on the footwear industry TBA. We are all holding our breaths to see what will happen. I see most folks giving up on the shoe shows completely after this until things get back to "normal." I fear another bout of job loss because of this as a result. Hopefully WSA will change the dates back (WSA organizers  decided to go toe-to-toe with Ffany...).
I am deeply thinking about this and that even though we are in a weird time - as my good friend said to me, I still want to bring everyone great fashion. I am thinking about this because Littles, Leo, Tech & Bird will be apart of that industry and perhaps need to participate in either show in 2011. It may take some good ole fashion marketing and steer clear of these shows until we gain momentum and the cash to rent a 10x10 both space for 3 days of "I hope we break a million!" This is why we need to build an e-commerce site. An online boutique to showcase and sell our shoes direct to the customer. People think that they decide what to wear - when in fact, someone else ( a "buyer") chooses what goes into the store and you are left picking out what someone else thinks you should wear. If you have an e- commerce site - you can let the public decide what to buy straight up - at least that is what we will create.
So I am looking into taking this course - plus I told a dear friend that I would and perhaps help her business as well as part of the class project (tee hee). I think I can design and build a website. I'll give it a try and if it doesn't come out right I'll get help! We'll see, I will keep you posted of course on what I decide to do.

Best!

tg

Weekends and MBA's

The trouble with starting your own brand is that  you find yourself going to bed at 3am and up at something like 10am - if you are lucky! However when the weekend comes you think there is a break...no there is not! Any respectful business savvy minded person's brain is on super-drive 24/7. There seems to be no rest. You see ideas from a simple thing like a band-aid or a car tire. You are constantly thinking of how to make your company work better. You are constantly creating. I spent this weekend fighting the urge to sit down and "Create" but I could not help it! So I at least I checked in on my blog and my social networks - quickly. No matter what weekends are shot. I am forever bound by my brain that won't stop thinking!

Today I was supposed to go to the SBA office but I had to reschedule for Wed. Today was also the first day of school for Little Paw and we focused on trees and how they grow and why they are important. We went around the property taking pictures of trees for his assignment. I started to think of the company as a tree and this process will be called the ROOTS. This is where the brand will get it's source of life, water and nutrition. However it has got to be firmly planted. What I spent this weekend thinking was that the creative aspect of this venture comes naturally to me but there is the importance of understanding the technical business aspect of fashion and it's industry. For the many years that I have been a designer - I was working for someone else. Someone else built a business plan and model for success. Someone else raised funds to support the business and it's representatives, travel, trade shows, marketing. Here I am doing it solo - for the moment.

And don't get me started about the issue with family members that do not understand what you are trying to do. Why is that always there? It is a struggle and a hustle but being from Brooklyn, NY - that is what I know best - the hustle. The hustle to make it big - or at least to make it. Littles, Leo, Tech & Bird will be my testimonial to the hustle and struggle. I am ready for it because I want to support my business, I want to help raise funds and develop the model that people will grow to respect admire and love. This is the thing that makes folks give up because it makes the finish line seem much further than they thought. It is very admirable to develop your own business. Even if people don't get why you want to go through such a task. I along with my husband and immediate family and friends and colleagues are up to the challenge. I am looking forward to my SBA meeting on Wed. and going through the motions. I was quoted a business plan development price of anywhere between $5K and $10K. That sounds like a lot of money. But if you expect to gain a healthy amount of money for your investment - then it is a serious investment to have your business model written down on paper by a professional. Preferably one with an MBA. So at this point there is a list together that has "money for business plan" written on it. I wrote a biz plan years ago and I do not think that I am up to writing it for LLTB. I believe that I have key information that is needed to develop it but not the skills to deem it a multi-million dollar investment for potential investors. With that said - does anyone know someone with an MBA that is willing to help develop a business plan?

 My brain hurts now...
 
tg

It's mine!

We all have these great and wonderful ideas in our minds that we can make MILLIONS off of. However, there is an immediate reluctance to tell anyone about it. That is what I am facing. My husband is fearful of folks stealing an idea once you open your mouth. But I say - "how are people going to know about what you are doing if you don't tell them?" So as I write this daily blog I am forewarning you that I may hold back some design/images until the near end. I may hint on somethings and the few that already know - keep it tight!
So the linkedin.com thing is working. I am now honorably linked to Chief Shoe Giver, Blake Mycoskie of TOMS shoes (wow) and some notables from BCBG, Burberry, Coach and other professionals in the game. The next question is - how do I reach out to these respectable people without seeming like a groupie? I'm starting to wonder if these professional networks are mere database or rolodex entries and not to be contacted - just reserved. I mean is it not enough that they even accepted your invitation? Well I am not going to misuse my new extended network. It is weird though because I am used to meeting people face to face.

Also I defined the areas of the Shiatsu insole pressure points today and am going to take the next viable step and forward the concept to my contacts in Brazil on Monday. Brazil has a grasp on flexible sole technology and has the best in South America. When I was there I saw at least 10 plants in one town that were dedicated to developing the next evolution in comfort soles. Also this is where I'd like to develop the brand. I feel Brazil holds a since of quality and workmanship. If there were any shoe factories left in the USA - I would go there first. Once the specs are complete and done on the insole - then it is off to the US Patent Office. After the mold is complete then the Podiatrist comes into play - anyone know a good Pediatric Podiatrist in the LA area? My search is leading to more plastic surgeons and reconstruction...

And for some reason today I designed a great set of shoes – for women – I'll share those tomorrow, I need to scan them. Again, Song Bird is crying her eyes out. Not for milk though...she is getting on everyone's nerves with the crying and has been kicked out of both the boys and girls room. Now when you get kicked out of your own room – it's time to stop the crying.               Ah, she's sleepy, got it. Bed time!

tg

Networking

In the beginning I was going to try to launch this line in December during Ffany in NY as a press/editor review. That was super ambitious and as time raced by it became even more of a not so great idea (that reminds me, I have to contact Dawn Michelle Hardy). My brother-in-law decided to come on as an advisor and help to put things into perspective. And rightly so, what has manifest is to take this company and the brand to a level that is smart, effective and lucrative with integrity. That means - slow your row and focus on the "building" blocks of business. Throwing yourself out there even with great product can turn into a crash and burn situation and we are not going into business to be out of business in 4 years.

So I chose to delve into what comes first - networking.

Today I surfed the web to find some online networks for women like myself and in particular sites that focused on children and children's fashion. This can be a pain in the butt because there are soooo many sites and blogs out there. It was interesting. In between the kids, the heat, trekking to the mailbox,dodging the 4 month old puppy and gazing at our Thoroughbred horse, I came across some interesting things. I re-familiarized myself with baby couture magazine - but I am not sure, the site is not functioning right today. I signed up with mykidsfashion.com for an international perspective and bizymoms.com that focuses on women running businesses. Ladies Who Launch is also a very informative site and I joined a few groups on linkedin.com - I just hope that this part of social/professional networking does not get overwhelming but I will keep the sign-ups to a minimum so that I do not loose the point.

The point: To get connected with enough people in the children's industry now so that marketing to these prospective customers/clients will be smooth once we are ready to launch. In short - to create an industry buzz ahead of time by keeping up with the times.

I think that if I am apart of some discussions here and there folks will remember me when we are ready to go full speed. I hope this works. If not, it is hours spent blogging for nothing? I think the online lifestyle is the next big thing. We already feel naked without our devises and chatting has taken on a whole new meaning. We can create relationships with a keypad and sent button. So why not monopolise on this budding new life? So, I think I am on the right track.

Also I am trying to figure out how to link this blog to facebook with the fb logo...that way I can shoot this blog up as part of my fb page.I have no clue how to do this - anyone out there can help?

I also started my research on pediatric podiatrists here and outside of Cali. I just need to ask a few Doctors to review the insole and deem it worth of a seal from the APMA. This may take a while. I'll need to have them sign disclosures and all so I hope to find someone local.

Anyway, Song Bird is crying her eyes out for some milk in her cup...she has no idea that she is going to get turned down - it's 12:23AM! The milk line was closed down hours ago!

tg

It has begun!

Dear Family & Friends,

It has begun. The epic adventure of the making of a shoe line: "Littles, Leo Tech & Bird" - most of you already know the inspiration behind the name. And most of you know that I am an artist - a creative soul by birth and just so happen to be married to the same soul...so we have created this journey and we invite you all to be apart of it.

After many years in the fashion industry - yeah, I think I know everything (tee, hee), it is time to take my knowledge and test the waters. Four kids later the husband and I realise that of course I can develop another line of dope women's wear (which I will - I promised all of my friends that I would...) OR we can create something that is fashion forward, classic, high end and edgy - for kids! Well, we have 4 of them and that is a mini-test market in itself. Along with some really great relationships that have been made and networking with industry professionals and the advise of some of you - we are launching the line. Now I am not going crazy with development and throwing it out there tomorrow, I want to take the time that it needs to build it into something great. So I am taking you all along for the ride if you are up to it.

This blog is our launch pad. We will take you from start to finish, the creative process, day to day stuff, searching for funds and investors, and lead to a successful brand launch for press/editors and finally the trade show and link this to our official website where the blog will continue. That is the goal. Your comments and feedback will be integral in our process and it means the world to us to know that we have solid real people backing the brand and this audacious grand idea. Think of it like a reality show without the cameras! And I apologize for the 2nd 3rd person writing. I am all over the place!

Now, here is a little something something about the brand. Some verbiage.

Let us know what you think:

MISSION STATEMENT:
Littles, Leo Tech & Bird has a mission statement that is simple: Great Shoes!
This brand will speak to people as the tried and true children's brands from the past. With a dedication to quality, style and forward fashion. A brand that is not set on trends –
a brand that is set on staying power and longevity. Little's, Leo, Tech & Bird is a brand
that will become a familiar household name synonymous with the classics, forward thinking styling and innovation.

Technology:
Innovation that is also simple: creative comfort! Check out the insole that is constructed
around the practice of reflexology. Constructed with flexible latex material, the insole design cushions the sensitive pressure-points for the major organs of the body; heart, spine, liver, the senses, the brain and the lungs. This creates the ultimate spa-like Shiatsu insole throughout wearing. The design gives ultimate comfort without compromising style. PATENT PENDING!

Created and Designed by parents who understand that kids are fashion forward, versatile and have a sense of style comparable with fashion of today and tomorrow.

Goal: Seal of Approval from the APMA and noted Pediatric Podiatrist

Approach: Kid shoes with (almost) grown up personalities.

Shoe Styles: Fashion and athletic (with a purpose)

Price Point: (don't trip...) $75/$105 -upward

Long Term Goal: To expand product offering to apparel, accessories, bedding, furniture, pet apparel to create a lifestyle brand.

Eco Friendly: Kids give back.
Some product line will include sustainable materials such as hemp, recycled rubber and raw leather with vegetable dyes or no dyes. The packaging is 100% PCW and uses no adhesives
or glues. This brand excites and displays all of the different desires of kids in a fashion
forward yet, ethical and conscious way.

Market
Age range: Toddler – 10/12yr (small run infants online only)
Target Market – middle to upper class income. The fashion forward and fashion
conscious persons who understand impulse buys as well as necessity buys for growing children. Families with 2 or more children to outfit.
Price-point: Bridge to Better. From $75 – up towards $100 and up
Selling Atmosphere: Boutiques and better department stores (Macy's/Federated as first target. NORDSTROM's as specialty runs).

Philanthropy
Creating a non-for-profit organization or participate in one (twoten foundation)
that donates 100 pairs of shoes to an orphanage/foster home or less than fortunate
community within the USA.
100 pairs as the starter seasons and hope to increase as the brand gains momentum and
sales.

Brand ID
Little's, Leo, Tech & Bird collectively represents the different personalities and styles that embodies the brand and the multi-level curiosities of kids. Kids can be super hero's one day and a dinosaur hunter the next. Girls love being a little Princess as well as a loot-seeking pirate! We understand that children develop a sense of fashion and music and personality at a very young age. This brand is an extension of expression.

Ok so that is the very beginning - getting the brand down on paper so that folks can relate by words first and be able to build the image around themselves. You are potential customers for "Littles, Leo, Tech & Bird" and we want to create a lasting impression.

Please be so kind as to leave your comments:

What do you think about the brand? Yes there is a short version to the name: LLTB.

How about the artwork/logo design? Little Paw designed that using Adobe Illustrator program.

The brand image photo...I put that together and the drawn images represent the personalities of lltb and what they like. I think you can see the kids in the back - not my kids, but some kids that have the lltb "look." Do you think the image photo and the brand description match?

Please feel free to pass along to folks you think should follow this progress and check back daily as I update this. Also - if you are on the East coast you may have to wait to see the updates in the mornings 'cause I stay up LATE to write these blogs!

Best, Best, Best to you all and lets take over the world!


Tanita, Son and the lltb crew!