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Heather James from Inspiring Mums® brings YOU Devotion Active Wear. Sport and leisure wear for women. See a selection of the range by clicking below:
Welcome to HeatherJames.com.au!
Thanks for finding me, I'm very excited to share with you that I am currently writing my first books: "MY ATTITUDE WILL CHANGE YOURS!®" and "KICK START YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA EMPIRE" (2011).
It's my ultimate purpose and passion to EMPOWER others to live their dreams and live happy healthy lives. I'm a thinker. I love creating and I love thinking outside the square. It's what drives me to SUCCEED in everything I do, from Business to Motherhood and Marriage.
Are you searching for your lifes purpose?
Do feel overwhelmed with your amazing
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where to start?
Are you a high achiever Goddess who forgets to
take time out for Play and nurturing?
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To Be amongst other INSPIRING WOMEN at a 2-day event that will most definitely CHANGE YOUR LIFE… with speakers including Stacey Currie!
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION For Asthma and Allergy Sufferers
PRODUCT REVIEW: Sauber Intelligence SI-200 Cleaning System
With over 7 million Aussies with more around the world are suffering with Asthma and Allergies, it’s no wonder innovative products to help us live healthier lives are entering the market, such as the Sauber Intelligence SI-200 Cleaning System.
Dust Mite droppings trigger Asthma Attacks and Allergies such as hayfever and congestion. Just because you can’t see them, doesn’t mean they are not there. Even if you don’t have Asthma or Allergies, there are other health considerations such as, disturbed sleep and eczema.
Now, before you read and watch my Product Review below, I would like you to watch this very short video clip.
Now, press PLAY….
David 7.5 months old
That video makes to really think about what’s crawling around your home!
So when I met Todd from Sauber Intelligence at the KidsBusiness Bloggers Brunch in November, I was genuinely interested in the new Sauber Intelligence Cleaning System.
Firstly, it looked very modern with its sleek brushed chrome body, LCD display, several attachable heads and adjustable height pole. But what impressed me the most is that is it cleans the air while you vacuum and selected to be on the “Sensitive Choice” program endorsed by the National Asthma Council Australia. I was given demo and I thought what an awesome product, certainly an intelligent machine that’s for sure!
I gave my feedback on the day, see my first impressions from the Bloggers Brunch in November with 50 of the TOP 50 Aussie Mums who blog in the video below!
Now, press PLAY….
Now, no one in my immediate family has Asthma, there are some allergies including eczema, but nothing serious, so why would this product even take my interest? A few reasons, new baby who’s crawling EVERYWHERE…! It’s an innovative product and knowing there was a product on the market that could match or even beat my trusty Dyson I am interested! Let’s see if it stacks up!
SUMMARY:
I tried to find something ‘wrong’ with the Sauber Intelligence SI-200. I gave myself at least a month of serious cleaning and ‘nesting’ to uncover what it can’t do well. I think I have cleaned every inch of my home twice or more and if I had a dog, I would have cleaned it too! LOL! I failed miserably. True. In fact, the only thing I have against the Sauber Intelligence SI-200 is that it has a bag to replace, which creates added expense to the household budget, which my trusty old Dyson doesn’t, I just have to clean it out with water and a cloth. But for the sake of the quietness of the machine and 5 stage filtering system with a HEPA Filter, I’m going to let go of the issue I have with replacing the bag.
My vacuum checklist/wishlist:
- Lightweight machine for lifting and moving
- Easy to move from room to room without added stress on the back
- Hose swivels 360 degrees without being twisted
- Suction Head slides under the furniture with ease
- Long power cable & cable return doesn’t flick up and hit you in the leg
- Quick & easy to follow instruction Manual
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Energy saving options
- Easy to dismantle and store away
- Quiet so it doesn’t scare my kids
- Able to vacuum the blinds without ripping them off the fittings
- Doesn’t blow dust back out the the air vents
Check, check check… for each one!
Now, you will notice I haven’t included “Endorsed by a national body” because before now I didn’t think I would consider it. However… having made many serious purchases over the years for our family home, I am now ever more careful about where our money is spent and not ‘wasted’ on a useless product, especially if it is a significant investment. Knowing that the Sauber Intelligence is backed by a nationally recognized body (National Asthma Council Australia) supporting and promoting the health and wellbeing of Aussie families, I now choose to “think before I spend!” Visiting the Sensitive Choice® now gives me the confidence in buying products that support my need for a healthy and safe home.
You’d be excused for thinking the Sauber is “just another vacuum cleaner”, but let me share with you why it’s NOT!
PRODUCT REVIEW IN DETAIL:
For those who like detail and drilling down to the nitty gritty, this bit is for you! I like detail too, you’re not alone… I like to know how things work and what they do and why. Below I have covered each of the heads that are provided as part of the Sauber Intelligence SI-200 Cleaning System with examples and benefits for each attachment for cleaning.
If you would simply prefer to watch how I have used them around the home and sit it in action, I have created a video for you it’s about 5 short minutes, so go put the kids to bed, grab a cuppa, come back – then sit back and relax…. 
Now, press PLAY….
So? What do you think now?Don’t forget to leave a comment under my video on YouTube or this blog post to let me know what you think
www.youtube.com/user/InspiringMums
ELECTRONIC CONTROL HANDLE
- Controls the level of suction more or less as needed.
- Controls the Auto adjustment for the Auto Floor head and PowerClean Head, which adjusts to the type of flooring, from floorboards, carpet to tiles.
- Controls and starts the PowerClean Head and PowerClean Brush for a deeper clean.
What I loved most about this function is the ease of being able to control everything from the handle without having to keep bending down to the body to change the controls, right at the tips of your fingers. Even that there are controls for the machine, most vacuums you get one setting, that’s it! Let’s face it we are all time poor and this makes for efficient cleaning!
Loved it and very handy, no faults here.
5/5 Stars
TELESCOPIC TUBE
- Adjustable tube up and down
- Easy to remove for when the tube is not needed
Sometimes when cleaning you just don’t need all the parts, like when cleaning your vertical blinds or furniture, for example a baby’s change table. Being able to remove the tube easily and quickly helps you get into those hard to reach places where you can’t use a pole.
As a shortie myself, I like that I am able to easily slide the tube up and down to my height level or longer when I need to reach the corners of the room for cobwebs or on top of the fans.
What can I say, it works well.
5/5 Stars
POWERCLEAN HEAD
- Motorised cleaning head with light
- Cleans the air as you vacuum
- Goes low enough to reach under furniture
- Swivels so that the tube and head easily reaches hard to reach places
- Deep cleans carpets, rugs, tiles, floorboards, and slate.
- Is fairly quiet when power is not sent to the head does have a slight rattle but that is due to the motor in the head which is acceptable.
This is my favourite cleaning tool with the Sauber Intelligence.
This head is very impressive I have to say. Every time I used it I felt like I was REALLY cleaning the carpet, compared to the Dyson, my trusty upright vacuum cleaner. When I looked at the carpet after I had cleaned it, I could actually see where I had cleaned, whereas my Dyson I would feel like I had to do it all over again in minutes, it just didn’t look like it picked up anything. The suction is incredible especially on high!
The PowerClean Head when used along the walls would pick up anything that is just next to the wall, whereas the Dyson you have to keep bending over to push the pieces away from the walls. I like the fact I didn’t have to go over the floor in the same spot more than once. I like that I can use it on full suction or adjust it to the flooring as needed. For rugs this is especially helpful. Best of all you if you don’t need it, you can save energy by turning off the PowerClean Head!
Seriously incredible tool!
5/5 Stars
POWERCLEAN BRUSH
- Motorised cleaning head with Vacuflex™ used for upholstery, bedding and car seats.
- Fairly quiet when on full suction can be used on tube or without (see my video above used on the armchair)
- Also you don’t have to use the Vacuflex™ with this one, it can be removed.
I didn’t realise just how dusty my lounge furniture was until I used this tool (embarressing!) I first used it without the additional power switched on, which really just didn’t do much but make the brush turn and flick the dust up to the surface, it didn’t suck it down the pole! But when I turned on the power to the head and put it on the highest suction level, OMG! The dust just got sucked right up! It took a few minutes to clean the armchair (see video) but it now a 10+ year old armchair looks almost brand new!
Very, very impressed with this head my second favourite from the Sauber Intelligence Cleaning System. You’d find it hard to find anything that could match this on the non-commercial market.
5/5 Stars
AUTOMATIC FLOOR HEAD
- Automatically adjusts suction to the type of flooring you are cleaning
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Works well under furniture and along walls
A general purpose head that is great for tiles and floorboards. Easy to use, and auto adjusts so that you don’t have to keep changing the setting on the head. Again a great time saver and better on your back so you don’t have to bend over so much!
Really can’t find a fault with it.
5/5 Stars
SMALL COMBINATION TOOL
- BRUSH – perfect for hard to reach areas that need a little extra help moving dust etc., such as behind the washing machine or dryer. I found this one great for cobwebs and along curtain box frames.
- FLAT HEAD – I found this tool great for vertical blinds, on top of fans, nursery furniture like the change table to remove dust. Set on a low suction it doesn’t pull down your blinds or make it difficult to clean, but still cleans well!
I loved how this tool is combined as one, easy to use and clean afterwards.
5/5 Stars
CREVICE TOOL
- Small narrow tool for hard to reach areas between furniture or along skirting boards and carpet edges.
Thought this was a great universal tool which every home needs. This was a little noisier than the others which is to be expected.
Can’t fault it, it is what it is!
5/5 Stars
RADIATOR BRUSH
- Small tool which attaches to the Crevice tool for cleaning radiators or air vents including bathroom and laundry fans and vents.
When used with the Crevice Tool on my fireplace vents it was able to get right into the narrow sections and helped to work off the soot and dust on the vents using the brush. I was impressed that it didn’t scratch the vents either, which is another positive.
Again, this was a little noisier than the others which is to be expected. Can’t fault it.
5/5 Stars
DESIGN, MOVEMENT & STORAGE
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to move around the house, won’t tip or fall on crawling little people
- All parts detach quickly and easily for compact storage in a cupboard, under the stairs, or under bed.
- Clear & easy to read LCD display
- The cable is very long and doesn’t flick into the machine like other similar models I’ve used do.
5/5 Stars
INVESTMENT:
In my humble opinion, I would personally save long and hard to get a machine like this and treat it as an investment. Available exclusively from Godfrey’s stores www.godfreys.com.au you know you are going to get the information, customer service and support you need. If you are focused on your family’s wellbeing, don’t cut corners, don’t get the new flat screen for the rumpus room, forget the IPad you don’t need, ditch the fast foods each week for a while and you will be able to access a worthy investment of your hard earned coin! This is not a product to be sniffed at because in fact it is now so popular there is limited stock! That’s right people!
Ask yourself this, what is your family’s wellbeing worth to you? You can’t afford NOT to get a Sauber!
CONCLUSION:
I tried to find a negative with the Sauber Intelligence SI-200 Cleaning System, to be honest I could only come up with that it has a bag as I’m used to a bagless vacuum, that’s it! BUT… the bag is part if the 5-stage filtration system which is very impressive so it’s not a negative at all.
The Sauber Intelligence is a long-term, trustworthy, tested and recommended investment in your family’s health and wellbeing and I will gladly replace my old Dyson for it!
Sauber Intelligence is exclusively available from Godfrey’s stores so you know you are going to get qualified, experienced customer service and after sales care when you buy your Sauber. Visit the new Godfrey’s website today at www.godfreys.com.au
For more information the Sensitive Choice® Program by the National Asthma Council Australia visit www.sensitivechoice.com.au
For more specifications on the Sauber Intelligence SI-200 Cleaning System visit www.sauber.com.au
Don’t forget to mention this Product Review by Inspiring Mums® better still, print this out and take it with you!
Thanks for taking the time to invest in your wellbeing with me, Heather James, Founder, Inspiring Mums® www.inspiringmums.com.au
CONGRATULATIONS TO EMILY FUNK for winning herself a $400.00 special trade in voucher which will go towards the purchase of a Sauber from her nearest Godfrey’s store! Toot Toot! I couldn’t have wished for a more worthy little family to receive this gift just before Christmas! Emily is one of our Inspiring Mums VIP Community Members and dedicated to her and her family’s overall wellbeing!
2011 Allergy Survey, Dust Mite Shock…!
Did you know… more than 2 million Australians have asthma and 7 million have allergies? Are you one of them?
With an estimated population in Australia of 22 million, it’s no wonder the medicial professionals are worried for our health of nearly half the population in the country.
Most of us know having a clean home is important to our wellbeing, especially those of us with young families, including myself. We are inundated with information on TV, radio and in the press daily, but what does it all mean? So confusing! In the latest survey just released it was found that 9 in 10 (89%) of Aussies don’t know how to eradicate dust mites, pathogens and allergens from the family home, prompting experts to call for greater education around hygiene in the home.
The results of the Clean the Air survey, commissioned by leading vacuum specialists Sauber Intelligence has also found that an alarming 8 in 10 or 81% of parents are comfortable in allowing their children to play on what they believe to be clean and healthy surfaces, when in fact harmful bacteria is most likely present. Even more frighteningly only 30% of parents are concerned about dust mites in their children’s bedrooms – a known cause of asthma.
Think before you buy…here’s how…
If you see the blue butterfly when shopping, stop for a moment and think about your family’s asthma and allergy care.
- Do you know your triggers?
- Are you taking steps to reduce your exposure to your triggers?
- Have you had an asthma and allergy review with your doctor recently?
- Do you follow your asthma or allergy action plan?
Overall, Australian’s don’t know what is actually hanging around in their floors and carpets and furthermore 83% of us aren’t familiar with straightforward and eco friendly ways to reduce household asthma and allergy triggers such as dust mites.
Kristine Whorlow, CEO of the National Asthma Council Australia said:
“With more than two million Australians (one in nine children suffering from asthma) it’s important that families consider dust mite reduction measures if children are allergic to house dust mites. This is in addition to following a written asthma action plan developed with their doctor and taking their prescribed medication.
“Families with children are of particular concern as asthma is a major cause for visits to hospital by children, with the major triggers of dust mites, pet dander and mould, occurring in the home. These triggers can be significantly reduced through the right cleaning techniques.
Kristine continued:
“Research has shown that 43% of people with hay fever report that their symptoms are triggered by dust, or dust mites, which is the second most common trigger reported (behind change in climate or humidity).”
National Asthma Week (1-7 September), the Asthma Foundation also released the results of one of the largest and most comprehensive surveys of people with asthma and how the health system assists them.
The 2011 theme for National Asthma Week is ‘You can help someone with asthma’. With one in ten Queenslanders, nearly 500,000 people with the condition, nearly everyone in Queensland will care for or know someone with asthma.
Foundation spokesperson, Dr Simon Bowler, a respected Respiratory Physician and Director of Medicine at the Mater Hospital has noticed many people do not have an adequate understanding of their asthma and are prepared to endure poor asthma control.
“If someone is using their blue reliever more than 3 times per week, this is a sign that their asthma is NOT well controlled” said Dr Bowler.
“It is concerning to me that one in five people surveyed have presented to Emergency Departments over the past twelve months. People are underestimating the severity of their asthma if they are self reporting it as mild, but at the same time needing assistance from an Emergency Department.”
The Sauber Intelligence is available exclusively from all Godfreys stores. For more information visit www.sauber.com.au or the Sauber Intelligence Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sauberintelligence. You can also follow Sauber Intelligence on Twitter at @Sauber_S1200
Sources & Helpful Links:
National Asthma Council Australia
Visit here for Certified Health Information, Support, Research & Statistics on Asthma
www.nationalasthma.org.au
Learn More About The Sensitive Choice® Program
Visit here for more information about the 100 products & services approved with the blue butterfly by the National Asthma Council Australia
www.sensitivechoice.com.au
2011 Asthma Foundation Consumer Survey
Read full article on survey
Australian Bureau of Statistics
Australian Bureau of Statistics
Photos
www.dustmites.org
Inspiring Mums® VIP Community
Join Other Mothers Leading The Way To Promote Healthy Living For Life
Where Mums Smile & Shine™
www.inspiringmums.com.au
Blogging Mums in the Media at the Bloggers Brunch…
Blogging Mums take on the social networking world with savvy networking skills, innovative businesses and creative ideas which have captured the interest of corporations with high profile brands like ARNOTT’S, COLES, LOGITECH, ECOSTORE, SAUBER and more…
STOP! WAIT… Have you Tweeted this page yet? Go on… I know you want to!
Copy and paste this into Twitter then TWEET! >>
Blogging Mums in the Media @Kids_Business #bloggers_brunch @InspiringMums @braqueen @easypeasykids
Aussie Mummy Bloggers Melbourne Bloggers Brunch Left to Right: Nathalie Brown (Easy Peasy Parenting), Heather James (Inspiring Mums), Christie Nicholas (Kids Business), Renee Mayne (Bra Queen)
The Corporates have done their research, they spend hundreds upon thousands of dollars, even millions of dollars on social network marketing for their brands and products, they are smart enough to tap into the social media revolution that is MUMMY BLOGGERS, MUMS WHO BLOG, BLOGGING MUMS… However you label them, not only are they a powerful source of information and honest recommendations, but really fun to network with!
Meet the Mums making a difference in the blogging universe, changing lives, helping others, educating and facilitating change in the world, all with kids at their ankles, an iPad or laptop with them in the playcentre’s creating innovative workshops and business projects to generate a secure living from blogging and building long term business opportunities.
Enter The “BLOGGERS BRUNCH” an invite only event to network with other mums and to connect with business with something to offer; SAVE TIME, SAVE MONEY, SAVE EFFORT, SAVE THE PLANET… Opportunities created from events like the BLOGGERS BRUNCH sets a high standard and go beyond the day itself and has Mummy Bloggers begging to get there ticket to the events months in advance.
TIP# See my previous blog for stats on Mums who blog and the impact they are making to the economy around the world! BRING IT ON I say…!
Meet some very Inspiring Mums showing the social networking world how to take on the world with a Barbie in your face!
Because of social networking, I have featured on television, newspaper, magazines, online case studies, newsletters, radio, blogtalkradio, websites and more… (see my MEDIA page) This afternoon I was invited to be interviewed for RED TENT WOMEN PodCast Radio!
Love to hear your feedback and comments on my blog today, I have more to come on the Bloggers Brunch, I currently have Miss 5 wanting to snuggle so better put on the Mummy hat!
H-Bomb… out!
PS: Don’t forget to sign up to grab your social media checklist and update on my book Kick Start Your Social Media Empire.
PPS: Thank you YOU ROCK!
PPPS: Darren Rouse @problogger www.problogger.com also tweeted a photo HE TOOK of the article in the Herald Sun Newspaper yesterday and here is a screen shot of the tweet and thanks for KidsBusiness and myself from my iPad. Don’t forget to Tweet that you saw this mention at the top of the screen include:
Read Blog thanking you @ProBlogger by Aussie bloggers @HeatherJ_Author @InspiringMums @Kids_Business #bloggers_brunch @HeraldSun newspaper article
- @problogger Darren Rouse Tweets photo of the Bloggers article
Thanks for Tweeting this post really appreciate it
Knock! Knock! Opportunity Knocks at the Bloggers Brunch…
What is it about blogging anyway?
Why do we do it? What’s in it for us?
What’s in it for you?
Here are some social networking stats that might surprise even you, check out the videos below:
Social Media Revolution
Watch the video and leave a comment on what you think.
Social Media Quick Stats in this video:
93% of marketers use social media for business
34% of blogger post opinions are on products & brands
Do you like what they are saying about your brand, you better…
socialeconomics is here to stay
90% of consumers trust peer recommendations, only 14% trust advertisements
Source: www.socialnomics.net
Based on #1 International Best Selling Socialnomics by Erik Qualman this is the latest in the most watch social media series in the world.
Women In Social Media
(includes stats on Mum / Mom bloggers)
Watch the video and leave a comment on what you think.
Social Media Quick Stats in this video:
67.5 million women in the US use social media once a week
53% of women who use social networking made purchases based on blog posts
32% of women read blog posts at least once a week
80% of women who use social networking have become fans of products or brands
72% learn and comment on new products
72% search for new products and ideas online
50% have purchased products because of social networking content
Source: www.porternovelli.com
OPPORTUNITY #1 – MEDIA EXPOSURE – HERALD SUN NEWSPAPER
I was invited to join a photoshoot for the HERALD SUN newspaper out on the park across the road which was fun with Nathalie Brown EASY PEASY PARENTING, Myself, Christie Nicholas KIDS BUSINESS and Renee Mayne BRA QUEEN, for featured article “Companies use gifts in a scramble to woo bloggers” by Wes Hosking, today 21 November 2011.
Based on the social networking stats and my willingness to get out of the house and create some opportunities to change my life, I packed up the kids (6 month old baby and Miss 5), picked up my Nanny (babysitter) and drive into the city to attend the invite only Kid Business Bloggers Brunch in Prahan, Melbourne.
It is very hot at even 10am, I’m thinking it wasn’t such a great idea to wear stockings! When we arrived it is already buzzing with Mums who blog, exhibitors, caterers, social media monitors and child minders from BAM (Babysitters & More…) So I grabbed my “I Love Blogging” bag, offload the kiddies to work the floor, meeting up with Renee Mayne – BRA QUEEN and Amanda Cox – MAD COW.
Before I went to the event there were a few things I knew I’d be going to see, some surprises but for the most part I was aware I would be exposed to brands and products. So I went with my business and networking hat on. I was open minded and accepting of what was going to happen. I am not an opportunitest. I do not just take opportunities lightly, I don’t just endorse something because it is handed to me, but I do go open to discussion at and after the event and see the potential opportunities.
Surprising styles featured at the fashion show…
- Loved the COLES MIX APPAREL fashion show, thought the styles were great and affordable for mums. I didn’t like all of the items as it wasn’t my style but most of it was nice.
The clean air, quiet & lightweight vacuum, you want one too?
- Checked out the SAUBER vacuum cleaner, endorsed by the Asthma Council Australia, it was very quiet and had an innovative powerhead with a light. It was really lightweight too, not like my heavy Dyson, I honestly liked it – so they are sending me one! Can’t complain about that!
Looking for healthy homes for healthy families, look no further…
- Featuring products from baby friendly bubble bath to body butter for mum even laundry powder with no nasty chemicals as well as low fragrance ECO STORE has what I need to keep my home free of nasty chemicals. I come across many ‘Eco’ products, but I was already sold on these before the event having used them before. Oh and loved the new packaging designs!
Found larger size, lunch crackers that don’t fall apart
- I really hate when my crackers fall apart with topping falling off when I eat them. I don’t eat a lot of bread so having new ARNOTT’S VITA-WEAT LUNCH SLICES give me an alternative to bread I have been looking for! Really happy they have a great selection and made from 100% whole grains.
OPPORTUNITY #2 – GIVEAWAYS FOR OUR INSPIRING MUMS COMMUNITY!
- Loved that they offered (several times) to send me a hamper to give away to our Inspiring Mums VIP Community Members for a giveaway!
Would you say no to saving $201 on average on your car insurance? Me either!
- Move over RACV, COLES INSURANCE is in town and they are shaking things up! If I found out the info to save you $201 on average on your car insurance, you’d want to know, right? Yeah me too! So I asked about House Insurance as well, bingo, needless to say I will be re-evaluating my policies! I found out they are underwritten by Wesfarmers too which gives me more confidence in signing a policy with them. If it is going to put $201 back in my pocket for my family, bring it on I say! That will buy a hell of a lot of Monster High Dolls for Miss 5 or a nice pampering session for me!
Home brands actually taste like home made…!
- Over I go to the COLES Home brand table with loads of glorious food… OMG! It was like Christmas! I tried the biscuts and they were like you would make at home! Not what I expected from a ‘home’ brand product, well done COLES!
Baby & Toddler Club improves benefits via Frequent Flyers
- So I found out COLES BABY & TODDLER CLUB are providing further benefits via my Frequent Flyers! Hello, um yes please… I am all for any benefits or savings I can get for me and information I can share with other mums in my community to help them save money and get benefits also. They even shocked me at how cheap the COLES own brand Comfy Bots nappies are and the wipes. For our mums, every dollar saved counts so I am happy to bring them this news! I was given a pack of 50 nappies and bag of Coles own brand of products to try, the Santa cupcakes are very cute!
Geeky Gadgets for Mummy Bloggers to get creative, innovative & mobile!
- I’m a Geekette, I love my iPad, computer and other geeky gadgets. I may not need them but they make blogging, social networking that much more easier especially with kids. Love Love LOVE the iPad Speaker Stand, iPad for when I am doing my Vlogs! Tick… On the wishlist, NEXT… loved the little portable speakers for iPad is about the size of a hairspray can that fits in your handbag. Great for frequent travellers who present in workshops or meetings. Loved the iPad keyboard stand and hard case… really wishing I had known about these products before I got my iPad keyboard (I’m using right now) as I can’t move around well enough it wobbles and I am worried Miss 5 will knock it off the keyboard all the time! I was really impressed with the range including the headphones. Can’t go wrong with Logitech, and loved the 40% discount for us bloggers, may have to twist hubby’s arm for a Christmas gift what do you reckon?? Dear Santa, I’ve been a good girl 
Hello Kitty, toys to engage the mind, learn and grow…
- My little girl dragged me over to the Mega Bloks stand where she eyeballed the Hello Kitty lego and other toys. They gave me a toy bus for my son and the Hello Kitty house for Miss 5 (who has NOT stopped talk about or playing with the house since Friday!) Loved the fact their products fit with other similar products, let’s face it we all have a mix at home don’t we…? I liked the range with brands we already know like Dora.
OPPORTUNITY #3 – BRAND AWARENESS FOR MY BUSINESS
- They gave me an opportunity to take part in a project that for me would see brand awareness for MY business Inspiring Mums® so I took the opportunity to see what comes of it.
OPPORTUNITY #4 – MY OPINION COUNTS – MEDIA EXPOSURE
- I was called up to do an interview with Christie for the Vox Pops filming. It was great to be able to share my view of the products based on what I had seen and heard, it was hot and felt the sweat dripping dow my back and forehead, hoping I don’t look and sound foggy headed because of the heat. I nailed it and felt good I was able to help provide my honest feedback.
RAW & REAL CRITIQUE OF THE OVERALL EVENT
WIFI…
- Need WIFI to ensure those at the event can access the social networking community without issues. Many of the mummy bloggers CHOSE to tweet, and photograph and share the event online immediately so WIFI would ensure we have complete access for the event. My SIM card ran out and wouldn’t recharge so I wasn’t able to do this on the day and I felt restricted…
Cooling…
- Fans or cooling system at the venue (or different venue) It was very hot in and out of the event, that couldn’t have been helped really it was a freakish hot day. In fairness, the last event did have heating covered, it was just an odd day.
More room to move…
- The other thing was the room size, it was a little tight to get past the tables and people, but it made for fun chats along the way. I didn’t hear one person complain while at the event.
More Time or Less to do…
- I would like more time to network with the other bloggers, have a bit to eat & relax. I loved the buzz of the things to do and the day 1 more hour would have been great or one less thing to do.
Feedback Survey…
- Loved the fact Kids Business sent a survey straight after the event to capture the fresh feedback from the event, good or bad… it’s only the 3rd event, there are gaps to fill, improvements to make, but I don’t know one event that runs smoothly from start to finish meeting EVERYONE’s needs… seriously awesome event no matter what!
Thanks for the birthday song!
To top the end of a great day off, as it was my birthday the following day, along with a few other mums, including Lori from RANDOM RAMBLINGS OF A STAY AT HOME MUM. The room filled with song as all the mums sang us happy birthday. Each having a cupcake made for us and after blowing out the candles we do what only dedicated mummy bloggers do, we whip out the iDevices and photograph and tweet the pictures of the cakes, hilarious moment!
Overall feelings about the Bloggers Brunch…
I walked out with the kids relieved but happy. Miss 5 was over it, bubba boy was asleep in the pram and didn’t hear even a whimper from him despite the noise. Couldn’t have been there without my Nanny to be honest, I would not have gone to be available for the opportunities mentioned.
OPPORTUNITY 5# – MAINTAINING THE BUZZ & CREATING CONNECTIONS
- I spent some of the evening tweeting about the day and connected with BUSINESS CHICKS on twitter. After a tweet they suggested a chat this week to talk about an idea they had… I thought GREAT OPPORTUNITY has opened the door because of being at the event, which I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to talk or connect further with BC before this. Massive thanks to Darren Rouse from www.ProBlogger.com @problogger for tweeting a photograph he took of the newspaper article from the Herald Sun yesterday… another great connection wouldn’t have had without the Bloggers Brunch event!
Even if I didn’t get involved with the brands and products I would have still made external connections like this, so from a business perspective it is great… never know what may happen, further media coverage who knows… but I have opened that door of OPPORTUNITY…
That’s me done… will load up vlog after school transition today – such is a mummy bloggers life!
H-Bomb out! For now
PS: Photos coming shortly…
PPS: Please leave a comment about the videos or event love to hear your feedback too!
PPPS: Don’t forget to sign up to my newsletter!
This is WHY it’s IMPORTANT to TRADEMARK Your BRAND!
Why TRADEMARK your business, products and IP…
STOP! Ask yourself these questions right now…
- Are you prepared to spend thousands of additional dollars rebranding your business – do you have the budget for this?
- Are you prepared to tell your clients that you have to rebrand because of copyright issues?
- Are you prepared to be potentially sued if you have used a trademarked name by another business?
- Are you prepared for the unnecessary stress and anxiety it can cause you?
- Are you prepared to change your logo, business stationery, website, marketing materials, merchandise, mobile Apps etc.?
I am the business owner of Introspect Design initiate | innovate | ignite® based in Melbourne Australia, providing web, print and multimedia solutions to businesses across Australia.
In June 2009, I contacted the fantastic team at Complete IP Pty Ltd to copyright my business name and value proposition because I valued my brand and what I was about to get into, SERIOUS BUSINESS!
I did this for a few reasons:
- To protect my brand for long term future
- To put my money where my mouth is, because if I am going to design brands I should reflect the professionalism through leading by example and copyright my IP
- To protect me from other businesses using the name or who may try to use the name in the future
I’M GLAD I DID! Because today, I received a concerning email from a business owner in the US, who has the same business name. He wanted to create a fan page and because I had already created it under Introspect Design, he couldn’t. He proceeded to tell me he has ‘first rights’ to the name because he has been in business 10 years in the US.
However, I did my research before registering the business name and as I wasn’t marketing to the US or anywhere really outside of Australia and I thought this name was ok and you know what it is, because I have actually protected my rights to use the name by trademarking the name in Australia. I just got off the phone with my consultant, Jacqui Pryor, who advised me that I have every right to conduct my business within Australia, using this name BECAUSE IT IS TRADEMARKED.
I was given an ‘option’ to change my fan page name to include the suffix ‘AU’.
Firstly, you can only change your Fan page name if you have less than 30 fans, I have 338.
Secondly, I am known and registered as Introspect Design, this is my business name and I am not changing it. Period.
Thirdly, I do not take ‘orders’ from anyone about changing my business brand or structure from ANYONE unless I PAY THEM for their professional consulting services.
With all respect to this person, thanks but, no thanks!
At first, I was a little concerned, but knew I had a trademark here in Australia and I knew that I do not market or have any clients outside of Australia. I sighed a great relief getting off the phone to Jacqui, as now I have even more confidence to continue to conduct my design business with the continued professionalism I have done so since May 2009.
Another reason to consider trademarking your brands…
I have a client that had similar issues but here in Australia and it was too close to an already copyrighted name that she infact had to change her business name (PTY LTD name) and all of the designs we had spent months creating (which also added extra expense to the project budget!). The new name is now a registered trademark and in fact is a better name all round! Her brand and products are fantastic and now she has peace of mind knowing it is protected!
I now have 3 trademarked Brands in Australia:
- Introspect Design initiate | innovate | ignite®
- Inspiring Mums®
- My Attitude Will Change Yours!® (book I am writing now)
Tips on how to get your trademark today!
- Contact Complete IP Pty Ltd and get all of the information you need to protect your business brand and business IP including products and services!
My clients who have registered their brands include:
Don’t leave it to chance my business friends, don’t risk your brand, don’t risk the extra unnecessary expense in having to rebuild your brand if it is in conflict with another business. Make sure you get someone to do the research you need to do before you register your business and get it trademarked! It is worth every penny and in the long term, now I know I can sleep tonight because I have done the right thing to protect by business, reputation and professional IP.
CALL Complete IP Pty Ltd now on 1300 365 715 to get you started and sleep easier tonight!
Good luck and let me know how you go with your trademarks I would love to hear from you!
xx Heather
Featured Profile on Creative Women’s Circle
I’ve arrived, well at least at the CREATIVE WOMEN’S CIRCLE
What do I mean, “I’ve arrived”?
Well, read my profile on CWC to find out more…
Basically, I’m home, I’ve arrived, I’m accepted as ‘One of them’ a designer. The design industry can be a bit of an ’it’ crowd, you have either been to Billy Blue, Shillington, University, and have worked as a designer in a proper design studio. To be honest, I haven’t done any of that and I have still made it. Throughout my career I have in fact earned more per year than many designers in studios as I worked for the corporates internally, that was where the stability and money was and I thrived in those positions. I loved the corporate world, even with the bitches, bastards and politics!
You will read how I have struggled to come to terms with my lack of ‘tertiary qualifications’ as a graphic and web designer, but still manage to successfully run two small businesses, with a young family for the last two years. I have infact taken time off recently to have my second child and still my clients are waiting for me to return! I have very loyal clients, they love the way I work, process driven, detailed and referred to as a perfectionist… hmm that doesn’t sit well for me as I know I am not, you may even find spelling, grammar and complete fopars on this very blog! But, that is fine with me, I’m only human and I am most certainly NOT a perfectionist. I have a system that works for my clients which makes them return time and time again. Much of this has to do with client relationships as I know I am not the best designer, but I do well and continue to do so.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Tess McCabe for accepting and publishing my profile and story to help inspire and educate other designers. I am all for sharing what I know to help others, so if you have a question about becoming a freelance designer, how to set up your business, who to contact, where to start, post your question on my profile at CWC and I will get back to you with the answer if I am able to.
Would love to hear your journey into business as a designer, entrepreneur, mumpreneur or freelancer. I am an open book ask me anything!
The Creative Women’s Circle is a website and series of speaker and networking events held in Melbourne, Australia, for women working in creative industries to share information, inspiration and ideas. For more information please contact Tess McCabe.
5 Top Social Media Tips
Thought I would share with you some great Social Media gold nuggets to help you get your online presence moving – FAST! You don’t have to spend a fortune, I even started with a shoestring budget, I have used these tips below and confirm the links are valid as at posting this blog. Let us know how they have helped you by commenting below this blog would love to hear from you so I know I’m not talking to myself!
** TIP 1 **
Outsource what you need to get things done for just $5USD!
> Social Media, animations, writing, graphics, programing, business and more!!
This is GOLD ladies!!
LINK: www.fiverr.com
** TIP 2 **
Update all your profiles & pages from Facebook, twitter, WordPress and Ning free for limited number of profiles or $5 per month for as many profiles as you have. Schedule bulk status updates so you are not tied to your PC
LINK: http://www.hootsuite.com
** TIP 3 **
Get a F REE website!
YES! That’s right! Get a f ree website from various places, here are 3 you can check out today. You may have to pay for website hosting depending on where you go and what you decide to get.
LINKS:
Wix
Getting Business Online
Official Site Builder
** TIP 4 ***
ATTENTION WORDPRESS USERS
Get Automated Backlinks to your site for F REE!
Rod Moore from Profit Minute and his programmers have developed this great tool!
LINK: Download Backlinks Rotator F REE
** TIP 5 ***
Resize your pictures for free without having to have a software editing program!
www.picresize.com
MORE TO COME STAY TUNED!
PS: All links I provide are tested and safe!
Heather
Can you have your CAKE and EAT it too?
Below is a short video on what I do for a profession aside from the speaking and authoring!
I hope you enjoy the showcase in the video I have posted with this blog, this is a compilation of the projects I have worked on over the last 2 years, from branding, websites, social media, print media, marketing collateral and packaging. I will be putting together some great packages on the ID Studio website which will launch on 1 September which will be suited to Entrepreneurs, Mumpreneurs and SME’s. Click here if you do not see the video below (iPhone & iPad users)
Since April this year, I have been on maternity leave, however I have been just keeping my social media presence active in the meantime. I am announcing my return to working in ID STUDIO where I fully intend on having my cake and eat it too!
I often speak to mothers online and in person about the challenges of returning to work after having a child and stirs up a well of emotions, some positive some negative, some quite physically debilitating. I know the feeling. While I know I have to return to work for a number of reasons personal and professional, I want to return to work. I want something for me. I want to have my independence, I want to leave a legacy for my children and I want to contribute to our lives and financial stabilty.
If someone had said to me two years ago that I would be my own boss with 2 businesses, I would have probably laughed and said “Yeah right!” Over the last two and a half years I have battled health issues, building my businesses, reputation and growing my family, while aiming to keep the roof over our heads. I have never aspired to be a millionaire, own fabulous speed boats or an island off the coast of Spain Ok yes while that all sounds dandy, I would be happy just to exist knowing I can afford what I need and want and maybe have the opportunity and funds to buy my father a house to retire in, so he doesn’t have to live in his caravan car or the damp cold house with the electricity turned off. This is what is happening right now and this is what drives me to make a life for not only me and my little family, but for my extended family.
So right now, I am setting up to have my cake and eat it too by working. I had major conflict about returning to work at all, asking myself “Should I or Shouldn’t I?” The answer was in my goals and vision board. It brought me back to the very reasons I started this journey in the first place. No, it’s not without it’s challenges, snakes in the grass and technicial hiccups, but I can tell you something for nothing, if you are considering going into business for yourself, it is the best thing you will ever do, despite the challenges. I have 2 kids at home, and I want my cake and I want to eat it too, how I manage it will be much harder than the last 2 years but I will do it and I will find a way to make it work, damn it!
Is it achievable? ABSOLUTELY! But don’t forget you will have to balance things about. You will have days that it goes completely out the window, you may have a whole day planned, then the kids get sick or YOU get sick.- What are the pitfuls? Poor planning can be a contributor, objection about what you do and how you do it can also be a pitful because it can bring you down if they are negative towards you having your cake and eating it too.
- What are the advantages? It goes without saying flexiblity is one of the greatest parts of being your own boss. You can come and go as you please and you answer to you! Of course you have clients etc, however, you don’t have to explain why you are late to anyone! It’s also an advantage to be more accessible to the kids, when they need you.
- What are the emotions you will feel? Many mums or even dads can feel a great sense of guilt, I think it goes with the territory to be honest. You can feel, physically sick to the stomach if you are heading back to the mainstream workforce. You may feel fear and anxiety. You may even feel excitement and elation that you are starting your own business. It will be peaks and troughs!
TIPS ON HAVING YOUR CAKE AND EATING IT TO:
- Get a business consultant to survey you, and provide you with the necessary cost calculators to help you get started. If you are not suited to work for yourself you may find it more challenging than it needs to be.
- Visit other small businesses in the area or contact someone who is running a business in line with your model (not same products and services) and ask for their top 5 tips.
- Get your systems in place. If you do not have the funding to start, consider leasing what you need for a short time.
- Get the support from your family and friends. Ask for help when you need it and don’t forget to help them when they need it.
- Social Media is a necessary evil, I have generated 100% of my business leads over Social Media, you can’t afford NOT to be there and using it efficiently!
- Enjoy what you do, be passionate and future focussed.
- When things get tough (and they WILL) just maintain balance, composure and your relationships, always be professional in your dealings even when it is hard.
- Remember to have regular breaks, especially if you have children at home.
These are just a few tips to get you going. Working for yourself and having your cake (kids) and eating it too (business/work/career) is achievable with good planning and management.
Best of luck and please comment below on how you are enjoying having your cake and eating it too!
Keep your eyes on the prize!
xx Heather
