June 25, 2009
Here in the northeast it’s been raining for what seems like an eternity! We’ve had only a handful (if that) of days in which the sun actually came out. I was beginning to think the sun was on vacation for the whole month. It actually hit 82 degrees today. The first day this month that it was over 80!
So, now that summer is finally here, it’s time to start planning all those summer events. Just Be will be pretty busy this summer hitting up all the fair, festivals and rallies that happen here in New Hampshire. Here is a list of all the places we’ll be this summer and beyond that you can visit us at (and buy lots of tees when you do).
- June 25, Concord Arts Market, 33 Capitol Street, Concord, NH, 9 am - 3 pm
- July 16-18, Concord Market Days and Music Festival, Main Street, Concord, NH, 9 am - 10 pm
- July 25, Bayswater Book Store, Center Harbor, NH, Noon - 2 pm
- July 31 - Aug 1, Pittsfield Hot Air Balloon Rally, Pittsfield, NH
- Sept 3 - 7, Hopkinton State Fair, Hopkinton, NH
- Oct 1 - 4, Deerfield Fair, Deerfield, NH
- Oct 10 - 11, Warner Fall Foliage Festival, Warner, NH
There may be more events added as they come up. So, stop by, say hi and buy a few tees while you’re at it! Hope to see you this summer!
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June 24, 2009
Just Be has plenty of women’s tees to support breast cancer research, but breast cancer affects more than just women. It also affects all the men in their lives as well. So, when I was approached by Nancy Long, owner of One Stop Boy Shop, to design a tee specifically for boys, I just had to do it. What a great idea!
Now, as most of you know, the symbol for breast cancer is the pink ribbon. Some boys are comfortable enough with themselves to wear pink nowadays, but most are not. So the challenge was to make something “boyish” enough that they would like to wear while still using the pink ribbon.
Here is the result…
Nancy was thrilled with the design and it even got the “seal of approval” from her 12 year old son. These tees are sold exclusively at One Stop Boy Shop and she’s even donating 10% of sales to the Susan G. Komen Foundation to help make a difference.
You can read more from Nancy at the One Stop Boy Shop blog and buy the Be Aware tee online in the One Stop Boy Shop store.
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June 5, 2009
So, we all know that the economy sucks and no one has any money for a fun night out. Well, at the Greeley Music and Film Festival, you don’t need any! The event, organized by Community Events, is free! It’s happening at Greeley Park in Nashua NH, Wednesday 6/10, 4:00-10:30 pm.
There will be artists showing off their creations we’ll be there selling our tees. For every tee that is sold at the event, Just Be will donate $1 to the Nashua chapter of Mother’s Against Drunk Driving.
Here’s what Donna Roberson from the Nashua Telegraph had to say about the event.
Someone has parked a 40-foot inflatable movie screen in Greeley Park. And that someone is Chris Malloy.
Malloy, of Nashua, who owns event production company Community Events, has taken over the Nashua Public Library’s Plaza Pics – or at least he’s staffing the free summer events, using his equipment and tapping area sponsors for support. But the library is still in charge of choosing the movies, he said.
“It’s very much still their project,” Malloy said.
But it was Malloy’s idea to host an opening event for Plaza Pics and show a local filmmaker’s work before the summer settled into family blockbusters, such as “Kung-Fu Panda.” Soon, the opening film turned into an artists’ gathering, with local artists invited to show their work in booths around the park, a world premier of a music video, film shorts and a line up of local bands headlined by Charlie Chronopoulos.
His choice was “Wrecked,” created by Nashua natives Ben Proulx and Joe Lopez. “Wrecked” tells the story of the consequences of teens who drink and drive in a full-movie format.
“It’s . . .” Proulx hesitated, trying to find the words to describe his film.
“Brilliant,” Chronopoulos finished.
“It’s written in a way that teenagers talk,” Malloy said.
Proulx said he wanted to make the characters relatable for teens, and the film actually spends 40 minutes developing the characters before the central action occurs.
” ‘Wrecked’ is not just an awareness film, it’s a movie,” Proulx said.
And a good one, Malloy added. “After I watched the trailer, I knew it was something I wanted to do.”
And Proulx jumped on the opportunity. Soon, Chronopoulos, whose music is featured in “Wrecked,” was involved, as well. Chronopoulos, who is preparing to kick off a three-month tour in Europe and the United States, will headline the event, sell limited-edition releases of his new CD and release the world premiere of his music video for “Widow’s Gun.”
But the event is still growing. Local bands From Here Down, Let’s Go Streaking, Horns Become Halos and Andy Krom and the Goods will also play. Students involved in the film production class at Nashua High School South will show short films before the screening of “Wrecked.” Local artists will display their wares, and a portion of all sales will go to the New Hampshire chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
“We’re just coming up with ideas as we go,” Proulx said. “Anything goes.”
“Anything involving art goes,” Malloy corrected.
Chronopoulos said the main idea is to promote the varied arts community right here in Nashua.
“I think art empowers art,” Chronopoulos said.
All three said they’d be happy to see other similar events happen in Nashua. Proulx said he’d like to even hold more events this summer.
In fact, Malloy said, part of the goal is to help people realize that independent music and films are good and there are talented artists in Nashua.
“It’s very good stuff. It’s high quality,” Malloy said. “It’s right downtown. It’s right under your nose.”
Greeley Park Music and Film Festival
WHERE: Greeley Park, Nashua.
WHEN: 4 p.m. Wednesday, June 10.
COST: Free.
MORE INFORMATION: E-mail Chris Malloy events@communityeventsllc.com.
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May 8, 2009
I know it’s been awhile since I’ve written a post to the Just Be blog. Lots have been going on, illnesses, not swine flu :), have run their course through our household and many new designs added to the new Just Be Shop.
Just Be recently participated in the Rockin’ Lollilop Lounge at the Baby/Tween Expo in Los Angeles on April 25 & 26, 2009. In attendance were some of the hottest tween and teen celebrities that appear on today’s hit television shows and movies. The Lounge was hosted by Baby Swags.
Jennifer Stone with Tween Reporter, Christina
Each celebrity tween and teen received their very own, “Starlicious” gift bag filled with some of the hottest trends for tweens and teens. These products range from clothing to hair care products, and beyond. For a complete listing, see below.
The exclusive VIP gift bags that were presented to the tween/teen celebrities not only included Just Be tees, but also the following products:
Three Peas & Co – Petti Skirts
Creative Clips by Colleen – Hand-made Hair Clips
Holy Craft – Word Blocks
Rejoice! Home, Body & Spa – Body Scrub/Butter
Temptation of a Generation – Temptation Series books
Pink Pewter – Elegant Headbands
Doce Vida – Gift Certificate
Bendigirl Yoga – Yoga DVD
Boodlebags – Wristlets
Totally Texty – Hair Care Products
Blossom 4 Girls – Skin Care Products
Becky Bones – Shoes
Chic Buds – Ear buds
Ariel Winter and Jackson Brundage at the Rockin Lollipop Lounge
The celebrity tweens and teens were able to mingle with their tween fans while at the Rockin Lollipop Lounge, show off their goodies and it also allowed the tween attendees to see what are the hottest, newest Spring products on the market.
Ashley Argota from True Jackson VP at the Rockin Lollipop Lounge celebrity teen gift suite
Other celebrities that attended the event were Ashley Argota, Allisyn Ashley Arm, Chelsea Makela, Ariel Winter, Jennifer Stone, Aria Wallace, Sammi Hanratty, Savvy & Mandy, Justin Stein, Daechelle, The Stunners, Austin Anderson, Keli Price, Jackson Brundage, Adair Tishler, Rachel Sibner, Nicholas Braun, Nick Palatas, Anna Maria Perez de Tagle, Kaylee Dodson and many, many more.
Aria Wallace at the Rockin Lollipop Lounge hosted by Baby Swags
The Rockin Lollipop Lounge VIP gift suite was the hottest spot to be in if you were a tween or teen celebrity or if you just wanted to catch a glimpse of your favorite tween/teen idol.
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March 2, 2009
I received an e-mail last week from a student from Central Catholic High School in Lawrence MA. He read my article in the paper and invited me to participate in a fashion show that he organizes to raise money for breast cancer research.
Last year, a group of devoted students and teachers from Central Catholic High School came together under one cause: the fight against breast cancer. Combining an appreciation of fashion with a love for philanthropy, the Catwalk Committee (as they came to be known) was about to change Central’s history.
The Catwalk was the school’s first ever student-run fashion show, and was the first to go to a predominantly female cause. Furthermore, the show boasted over eight hundred guests and raised more than $15,000 for breast cancer research, testing, screening, and education. They’re hoping to beat that total this year.
On Saturday, March 21st, 2009 at 7:00 P.M., student and faculty models will grace the custom-built, 55-foot long runway in Central’s Memorial Gymnasium. The venue will be transformed from a sporting arena into a fashion house; the theme is a juxtaposition of pink ribbons and Greco-Roman influence, inspired by the phrase “There’s a Goddess In You”. A breast cancer survivor will instill wisdom in the audience with her words, and a nationally recognized dance team will perform twice.
Among the raffle prizes from stores like Dino Furs, Elizabeth Grady, Fennell Imaging, and Bella Beads, audience members can not only expect fashions from Just Be, but also from local favorites like First Date, Stitch, GiGi’s, Native Sun, Dresscode, Russo Tux, TJX Co., Cristina’s, Irresistible’s, Casa di Stile, CoCo Collection, and New York City designer Hannah Shaw will debut their Spring/Summer collections. Hair and makeup will be provided by Best-of-Boston favorite Indra Salon.
Tickets are $15 each and can be purchased by visiting the Central Catholic website. The Catwalk Committee hopes to beat last year’s total amount raised. They believe that we can fight breast cancer…one strut at a time.
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February 28, 2009
It’s been a real interesting week at Just Be. Lots of stuff going on since the news about our tees being in the Oscars gift bags hit the airwaves. You can check out the great press we’ve gotten in a few local newspapers.
I was also featured on several newscasts for about 4 days in a row!
I’d like to give a shout out to Allegra Boverman, a photographer from the Lawrence Eagle Tribune, for spending an afternoon with me and taking some nice photos. I’m usually behind the camera, not in front of it, but Allegra made it really easy for me and I actually had fun!
I’ve had people coming out of the woodwork saying that they either read the story in the newspaper or saw it on tv. People I haven’t talked to in 20 years! My e-mail was swamped and I’m still trying to dig out from it.
Early next week I should have photos and more information on which celebrities got a Just Be tee—so stay tuned!
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February 16, 2009
I’ve been working all day trying to capitalize on the fact that Just Be tees will be given in celebrity gift bags at the Oscars on Sunday. I sent a press release to the usual sources (thanks Laurie!) and was preparing media packets with samples to send to local and national TV stations and shows.
Then, I got a phone call that would send me into a tizzy. The local tv station called to say that they saw my press release and wanted to interview me…tonight…on camera! Now for those of you who work at home know that you usually don’t get all dolled up to go to the “office”.
At least I took at shower today, but I was wearing a ratty sweater and wind pants…easily fixed though. Although, I didn’t have any makeup on…again, easily fixed. Luckily, I had a couple of hours before they were supposed to get here.
The next thing I thought of…the office was a disaster! I never have clients or customers here so it doesn’t really matter what it looks like. My desk was piled high with…well…piles of stuff. There are boxes of t-shirts everywhere–printed, unprinted, samples, etc.
I e-mailed everyone that I know to watch the news tonight. I told all my followers on Twitter, sent a bulletin to all friends on MySpace, and notified all Just Be fans on Facebook. You all know how fast news can travel in cyberspace.
Then, I get another phone call from the tv station. “Sorry, but there was breaking news tonight and we have to reschedule for tomorrow.” I hung up the phone and thought two things–
- Dammit, now I have to contact everyone again to update them…and
- Oh, thank goodness! I now have time to properly prepare…or should I say clean my office…er…shove everything in the closet.
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February 7, 2009
I got a pleasant surprise today when I logged on to Twitter. Adam Sandler’s new baby girl was given a Be an Angel onesie in a Baby Swags gift basket. That’s cool!
Second time dad, actor and comedian, Adam Sandler received a wonderful gift basket for his wife and the newest addition to his family. Wife, Jackie, gave birth to Sunny on November 11, 2008. Work at home mom’s team up with Baby Swags to provide hot and hip new products for baby! All of the products provided are direct results of the hard work, dedication and the ability to balance business and family.
“We are thrilled to add Adam Sandler and his wife to our growing list of celebrities that have received one of our baskets.” Phyllis Pometta, founder of Baby Swags states, “All of the work at home moms that helped to create this one of a kind baby basket did so out of their love for what they do and what they have created.” Baby Swags prides itself on finding fun, hip, trendy and unique new products for moms, dads and babies and helps to bring them into the public eye.
Some of the products included in this special basket not only included a Be An Angel onesie, but also included girls jeans from Sassy Belle, and handmade hair clips from Creative Clips by Colleen. The unique creations are fun for all ages.
Our warmest wishes are sent to the entire Sandler family as they welcome their newest family member!
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February 5, 2009
Those of you who are not in the business of manufacturing kids products probably don’t know about the new consumer product safety commission law that was passed last year. It is called the CPSIA or the Consumer Protection Safety Improvement Act. This new law states that all manufacturers, assemblers, creators must have each and every component on their product for kids under 12 tested to ensure there is no lead or phthalates contained in any part of their product. This law is supposed to go into enforcement on February 10, 2009.
We have thus renamed February 10th as National Bankruptcy Day. Why? Because this law will force many, many small businesses to close their doors. HELLO?!? This is no way to stimulate the economy! There is supposed to be a one year hold on this law because of all the uproar from the community, but the law is still on the books and individual states can choose to enforce it or not as of February 10th.
Why haven’t we heard as much about this important topic as we’ve heard about the stupid switch to DTV? (All of you that are soooo sick of seeing commercials about this, raise your hand.) The switch to DTV doesn’t affect anyone’s livelihood or have any major financial bearing on how that person lives. Yet, how much money has the government spent on notifying people about it? Millions!!!!
I only got wind of this law late last year…and I’m online all the time! What about those businesses who aren’t? How will they know about this? How much does it REALLY cost to send out an e-mail or letter notifying all the businesses who are registered with the Secretary of State’s office that this is happening? How hard would that have been?
AND…why didn’t we hear about it BEFORE it was passed? Was the government trying to pass it quickly and quietly because it knew there were going to be problems with it? Like anything that comes from the government, it is worded in such a crazy way that it can be interpreted so many different ways. Who’s interpretation is going to be the right one?
I also have an issue with the redundancy of this law and how it will only make the people testing the products rich while putting everyone else out of business. The law states that manufacturers have to have each and every component tested with each batch that is made. Let me give you an example of how this affects Just Be Products.
If you think about all the parts of a Just Be baby onesie–fabric, tag, snaps, printing. According to the law, Just Be Products has to have each part of this onesie tested EACH BATCH that is produced. So, every time I print, say, a dozen (which could be a batch that I print for a small boutique), I would have to have the onesies tested. If testing is going to cost $400 and I sell 12 onesies for $180, does that seem profitable to you? I would have to charge $50 for each onesie in order to just cover my testing and manufacturing costs! That doesn’t even include a profit.
Why is it that the most logical solution to protecting our kids from deadly lead evident to me, but not to the government? Shouldn’t the initial manufacturer of the part test each batch before they sell it? The company who makes the snaps that are used in the onesies should test their snaps and give the certification to the company who sews the onesies. The company who makes the fabric should have their fabric tested before they sell it to the company who sews the onesie. See where this is going? Then all these certifications would be given to the small business owner…like me.
The way the government has it set up, there is going to be a ton of redundant testing going on! The original manufacturer, who runs very large batches at a time, can absorb the testing costs more than the small business owner can. This would weed out any unsafe products from entering the country from overseas because they don’t have a certification. It would force them to either comply or stop selling in the US.
Seeing as how I live and work in New Hampshire, and President Obama just appointed NH Senator Judd Gregg as the new Secretary of Commerce, I think it’s time to start a letter writing campaign to see if he can do something about this mess. This will affect a hell of a lot of commerce. Don’t you think?
So, what does all this rambling mean for Just Be Products? Two things…either I can stop selling kids and infant products all together because I can’t afford the testing. OR, I keep selling these products hoping that any of the states that I sell in are not enforcing the law yet. If you see the kids and infant products disappear from the Just Be Shop one day, you’ll know which one I chose. Hopefully it won’t come to that.
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This is very exciting news for us! Just Be Tees will be featured in celebrity gift bags at the Academy Awards. This is an exclusive, invitation only event. The exclusive gifting suite will take place at the Oscars in Hollywood, CA on February 21, 2009. In addition to the celebrity guests, prominent media outlets will be on hand covering the event and scouting the brands and products the celebrities are receiving. Celebrities that are invited include past and present nominees & winners, producers, high profilers, VIPs, and many more!! More information will follow after the the awards ceremony. Stay tuned for the juicy details!
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