In the spirit of Valentine's Day, we asked a few of our members (MOBs) to share what self care means to them and what advice they would give other MOBs who are growing their businesses while raising their families. 

Get Serious About Taking Care of Yourself
Sarah Nelson, LAc, co-owner of Ancient Fern Medicine

Self care is such an important topic and one that I think gets misrepresented in the name of selling expensive products and services.

Self care is ultimately about the relationship you have with yourself and how you care for your mental, physical, and emotional well being on a daily basis. It's about making choices every single day that are in line with the person you want to be and the goals you want to accomplish.

Some of the most commonly overlooked areas of self care I see in my patients are simple things like not having good structure and boundaries around things sleep, nutrition, exercise, and stress management. No amount of indulgent pampering will cancel out the damaging impact of an erratic sleep schedule, chronic sleep deprivation, or lack of proper hydration and nourishing food.

Another super important area of self care is the quality of the connection in our daily lives. Are you connecting with people who make you feel seen, valued, inspired, and ready to go out and conquer the world? If not, then your first self care assignment might be to look at your patterns in relationships and take steps to invest in connections that leave you feeling energized and great!

By all means, take the fancy bubble bath, get the pedicure and massage, but don't forget about the basics when it comes to taking care of you. 

Avoid Decision Fatigue
Anna L De Salvo, Health Mentor and Time Strategist

Every day we make so many decisions that drain the energy out of us! Those little things daily add up to exhaustion at the end of the day. This exhaustion is what leads us to do things like overeat, binge watch tv, and prevent us from taking on our self-care as an intentional act. While some of these are downright fun, they usually lead to lower energy levels and lack of productivity. 

How do you avoid decision fatigue? Budget your energy with routines. Set up daily routines that save your energy for the important ones in a day. A few easy routines: keep your daily wake up time consistent, set out your clothes on Sunday night to avoid riffling through the piles of laundry the morning of, and only schedule one night a week to do your laundry.  Your energy is worth conserving. When you limit your daily decisions, you have more energy to make positive choices for your health.

You are worthy your own love
Julie Allen, Owner, Mary Rose NW Boutique and Founder, Mary Rose Foundation
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​Loving yourself means taking care of you. Carving out time every day to do something you need. As a mom and business owner, that can be more than a little challenging, but learning what you need and then allowing yourself the freedom to give it to yourself goes a long way.

Self-care starts with learning what you need. It is easy to get so caught up in mom and work life that you are no longer a priority. It can be easier to ignore what you really need than to find the time and energy to give it to yourself.

Caring for yourself, loving yourself, nurturing yourself, will benefit everyone. Believing you deserve the same time and attention you give so readily to everyone else, will greatly benefit you, your family, and your business.
It takes time to learn what you really need. It takes patience, self-compassion, and the courage to put yourself first. But caring for yourself, truly loving yourself, is something you deserve. You are worth the time. You are worth investing in. You are worth your own love.

Get Some Sleep!
Abbi Wood, Wordsmith & Communication Strategist
 
When you have a lot on your plate, and a lot to get done -- like, there's no end in sight -- what's the first thing to go?

Sleep.

Whether it's late to bed or early to rise, sleep deprivation will take a toll on your health, mentally and physically.

Set your home lights, phone, alarms (or whatever you need) to go off at a certain time and jolt you with a bedtime reminder. Aim to be in bed before you actually need to go to sleep (because those brains don't turn themselves off). Rinse and repeat until your mind and body acquiesce to the safety of this routine and habit.

Can't do it? (Me either!)
 
Backup self-care: Check in with yourself in the middle of the day or whenever you find yourself going off-track or spiraling, and fill your bucket -- aka invest in yourself.

Whether it's 5 minutes to yourself or 30 seconds: check in with yourself and
​p-l-a-n a chunk of time that you'll take to do whatever fills your bucket: reading, goal-setting, house cleaning, Netflix, a cuppa tea... Maybe check in with a friend and have a good ole chin wag. And stick to the plan.

And get back to trying to go to bed on time. It's like they always say: try, try again. In the meantime, there's always Netflix (for me). 

Find Ways to Recharge
Aloma Murray, owner, Eugene Mindworks, Coworking Space and Business Incubator

Self care can look different for everyone and even change over time. I have been pushing myself a lot this year to go beyond my comfort zone and put myself out there in a way that I have resisted previously. While it’s been really exciting, it’s also scary and can really drain my energy quickly.

Through the process I’ve learned new ways of boosting my energy and practicing self care! I realized that using my voice recorder on my phone while driving to work to just talk stuff through and record my thoughts has been really satisfying, in a similar way as journaling has been in my life. I try to pay attention when I start to feel burnt out. I know getting outside, having quiet time, reading a good book and spending quality time with my family playing games are great options for me when I need to get grounded and refresh my energy.

If you know what feels rejuvenating for you it’s a great idea to keep a list so you can refer to it when you feel stressed and overwhelmed. Sometimes we forget what to do in those difficult moments.
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Self care doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Simple things like taking 5 minutes to practice breathing exercises or mindfully drink a glass of water can be really powerful and help you reset.​

Think Simple
Kim Ludeman, Captivatingly Confident Confidence Coach 
 
Self-care doesn’t have to require leaving your house, finding a sitter or spending money.

It can be something as simple as taking your time getting ready in the morning. It can be giving yourself a foot rub at night before bed. It can be dancing to music that puts a smile on your face. Find something that takes five minutes or less and feels indulgent or pleasurable. 

Focus on Mind, Body, and Soul
Heather Payne, Rodan + Fields

Self care for us moms us beyond important.  There are so many aspects that go into self care.  I always try to complete my self care by focusing on mind, body, and soul.  
 
Mind - I utilize daily affirmations and self-growth books to maintain my self care in the mind.

Body - I get up at 4am to go to Crossfit every day, eat healthy and put my juicer to work  I also take care of my skin, hair and nails to feel beautiful and enjoy looking in the mirror every day.

Soul - There are so many things you can do to stay connected.  I like to use my oils every day and keep myself grounded and mindful.  Breathing techniques are a massive bonus in my life.  
 
Self care isn't selfish, it is necessary!

Self care has to exist.
Sarah Akey, Owner, Sarah's Sweet Treats

I'm finding that self care, is not always pretty. As I've traveled through deep personal struggles this past year and trying to keep businesses afloat, my view on the subject has changed a little.

I had always looked at it as a bubble bath, glass of wine and a good book, even give minutes in the bathroom with no interruptions. However, I've learned that sometimes, self care is allowing a good cry right before I go to sleep. Or even the simple act of admitting that I'm not okay. Letting the flood gates open, and allowing other people to stand in the gaps for me, has been a hard transition to make.

I kind of like to have control and put up a good strong front. Yet, I've found freedom and release in the "messy" type of self care. Self care is a process. A practice. And it can look different all the time. But it has to be there. Self care has to exist.

​Mandy, the owner of Tiny Times Photography in Vancouver, Washington, grew up in Southern California, then moved to Las Vegas and lived there for 11 years, before moving to the Pacific Northwest in 2016.

Her business and her first baby were both born in 2009. “Four years later we had a story of loss. I was just shy of 9 months pregnant when we lost our first baby girl, my Brie Lynn. She is always in my heart. After some healing, we knew we still wanted another baby. Our story then leads into a beautiful journey of adoption and that brought us our daughter now. She is an amazing little girl. We are lucky,” says Mandy.

She says her artistry thrives from her story, raising two kids, and growing a business. “Photographing babies when they are the tiniest they will ever be, is my favorite thing to do, besides being a mama. I just celebrated my 10th year in business and I have recently, and proudly, won the title of Best Newborn & Family photographer in my local area,” she explains.

Mandy was inspired to start her business because of the passion she has for photography and loving the level of artistry needed to take photos newborn.

She says her grandparents were her mentors. Her grandfather helped her with technical side of things and her grandmother fueled Mandy’s creative, artistic side.

Her ideal referral is a client who loves her work enough that they prioritize once-in-a-lifetime newborn photos.

Mandy says being a MOB Alliance member has opened opportunities for her. “Before the MOB, I actually would go door- to- door to connect with other businesses and meet new people. The MOB has only given me an endless chance to meet and connect with other like-minded business women who help each other grow on a daily basis. It takes a village to raise a business, the MOB is a big part of my village,” she explains.
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Her favorite MOB Alliance benefit is the ability to connect, help other MOBs, and be featured locally. She is grateful for the chance the MOB gives her to be seen, heard, and supported.

She advises new business owners to not compare your beginning to someone else’s middle and would tell a younger version of herself to keep learning.

When asked what her favorite part about working for herself is Mandy says “The control of knowing that "I DID THIS.”

Mandy is offering an exclusive special to MOB Alliance members: $50 print credit when you book a session
 
Connect with Mandy:

www.tinytimesphotography.com
www.facebook.com/tinytimesphoto
www.instagram.com/tinytimesphotography
 

Rebecca Flanagan is a Portland business, tax, and estate lawyer. “I am the proud child of two small business owners -- a veterinarian and a log home builder -- and granddaughter, niece, and sister to many other small business owners. It's in my blood that I'm my own boss,” she explains.

She is also a third-generation Washington State University alumnus who continued the family tradition of meeting her future spouse while at college. She and her husband, Andrew, recently celebrated their 10-year anniversary, and have two little boys. As a family they enjoy finding adventure hiking, skiing, camping, biking, and exploring Mount Tabor.

Rebecca describes herself as a self-confident woman that seeks to better her community, and a lawyer who seeks to use her unique background (working poor family as a child to middle-class as an adult) and privilege (white, educated family) to lift-up those around her.

Giving back to her communities is important to Rebecca. She runs a free tax site that prepared taxes for low-income and elderly taxpayers, volunteers with her sorority mentoring college women, coordinates the endowment of two academic scholarships, and serves on local bar association committees

She went to law school with the goal of helping people like her parents - hard-working individuals that are masters of their craft. While at law school she found tax law intriguing. “I learned it can impact every aspect of a small business from entity formation to growth decisions and employee matters to sales and marketing. I also realized that to serve small business owners, I would need to understand estate planning as the family assets can all be held within the business. That's how I came to the beautiful trifecta of my service offering: business, tax, and estate,” she explains.

Her clients range from professional service firms to construction companies, household employers (aka parents that hire a nanny) to educators and artists, individuals to corporations, LLCs, S-Corps, partnerships, and sole proprietors.

Rebecca says she looks to mentors that foster growth in different phases of her life. “My mother, Dr. Maurine Dufault Fritch, is a role model for managing a successful career, motherhood, and running a business. My tax mentor, Valerie Sasaki, literally taught me all I needed to know about state and local tax to thrive at my first legal job -- tax associate at KPMG -- when she was an adjunct professor during my final semester of law school. My leadership mentor is a dear sorority sister, Angela Guillory, past national president of Sigma Kappa Sorority; she challenges me to be a better leader, a stronger leader, a compassionate listener, and a creative problem solver.”

Her biggest business struggle has been managing her own expectations. “I am a perfectionist by nature and strive for flawless execution in all I do, from baking cupcakes for my bon's birthday to drafting a legal document and presenting a workshop on intersectionality to constructing a balloon arch for the Walk to End Alzheimer's. There are instances where 95% isn't good enough (legal analysis for example), but many times it is more than enough (public speaking, sewing projects), and sometimes 80% is plenty (balloon arch).”
She advises new business owners to focus on progress over perfection. “I adopted this mantra in the early days of starting my business, when I felt as though I was ‘drinking from a fire hose.’ Even as the extreme hustle of building the foundation of my business wanes, I still return to this phrase.”

Her ideal referrals are family business owners who are ready to do those tasks that need to be done - transitioning from sole proprietor to a corporation of some sort to limit liability; drafting an estate plan that syncs up with their business succession plan; working through a tangles tax issue be in multiple years of unfiled federal returns or how to apportion income between multiple taxing jurisdictions; setting up a system that ensures all nanny compliance tasks are completed in a timely manner; or even a review of business contracts to ensure enforceability.

Rebecca enjoys being a part of the MOB for the support and energy. “That synergy that comes from having a group of passionate women empowering each other. Even amongst MOBs of the same industry, you see the building up, supporting, cheerleading, sharing best practices, and support. This is rare in the professional world. By lifting each other, we are making a real, tangible difference in bettering our community,” she explains.

Working for herself allows Rebecca the opportunity to help dreams become a reality for other small business owners and build genuine, sustainable relationships. “In serving clients that are also my neighbors, I am relieving them of a stress or burden which in turn allows them time to engage with their family, commit to growing their business, or volunteer in our community. The ripple waves radiate out from the work I do with family owned businesses to impact the broader community. Additionally, I am setting an example for my little ones. My two boys will watch their mother further her career, build a business, serve with integrity, and grow relationships through genuine and authentic communication. As mothers our actions when parenting have a great impact on our children, and our actions when not in the active parenting role (e.g., at work, volunteering, interacting with our adult friends) are also influencing what they learn about the world, how we interact with those around us.”

Rebecca’s exclusive offer to MOB Alliance members is a free 30 minute consult via phone or in person at her office.
 
Connect with Rebecca:

www.flanaganlegal.us
www.facebook.com/FlanaganLegal/
www.instagram.com/flanagan_legal/

Let's face it, being a mom is hard. Owning a business is hard. When you combine running a business and being a mom, you might wonder how anyone does it.

There is no one secret to balancing work and motherhood, so we asked several entrepreneurial moms to share their tips for planning your 2019 and beyond.

Choose to be you!
Melissa Jensen, owner of Legacy Images

"People buy from those they know, like and trust.  So I'm putting myself out there, and stepping into this new year with boldness and confidence.  I started the new year with my own personal branding photoshoot, which can be a rare thing for a introverted photographer like me to get in front of the camera!

I have started planning out weeks of social media captions, all with the goal of letting my followers get to know me better.  I will be sharing personal insights, behind the scenes, how I stay productive, what motivates me, and my "why", because customers connect with these type of stories, not sales pitches. 

​What sets you apart are all the unique things that make you you. By showing up as our authentic selves we are able to build connection and trust by allowing people to get to know us."

Use Your Calendar
Jessica Hansen, the Systems Magician

"When you’re a MOB, life and business lines often are blurred and you’re doing both momming and businessing at the same time.  But there are a few things that can help you take control of your calendar.  

1) Put EVERYTHING on your calendar.  Electronic or paper.  Scheduled or listed. Write it down - if you don’t, you’ll forget. 

2) Pad your schedule.  Especially as a mom, you know doing things with kids in tow really does take twice as long as you planned.  So don’t schedule your appointments or errands back to back.  

3) Forgive yourself when something goes undone.  We’re under intense pressure to do all.the.things, and sometimes it doesn’t happen.  Apologize to yourself, and start over tomorrow.  You got this!

Put on Your Own Oxygen Mask First
Dr. Alicia Hart, Vitality NW
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Take a minute to check in with your body.

Are you tired? Put yourself down for a nap. Sleep is nonnegotiable, and so often the first thing to go to the backburner. Adults still have to sleep, ideally 7-10 hours every night. At least 4 of those hours need to be in a row to count as a decent chunk of sleep.

​If you’re consistently not getting enough sleep because of kids, you might consider some creative sleeping arrangements like sleeping at a friends house or swapping childcare nights with your support network. If the kids are sleeping but you’re not- maybe it’s time to check in with your doctor to rule out other causes of poor sleep like thyroid issues, sleep apnea, anxiety, blood sugar problems, etc. Getting enough sleep is critical for your health!

Setting the scene for sleep can be an important first step to getting some zzz’s- routine is key for many. Have a bedtime, and actually go to bed! Try to avoid using screens 1 hour before bed, as the blue light disrupts brains making the sleep hormone, melatonin. Soft music or white noise can be a helpful buffer, as can listening to a guided meditation via an app like insight timer, or an audio book. 

Did you eat something healthy? What do you need to eat to get strong? You can’t make a body out of missed meals and stress chocolate.

Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you need some low sensory input space so you can think? A glass of water? More movement? Less screens?

What things are you telling your kid to do for their health that you’re not following as guidelines at all?

Make a habit of treating yourself like someone worthy of care, because you are. 

Picture Your Future
Selena Maestas, Life Coach and Speaker 

"Creating a plan is like having a map to your gold treasure. And we all want to find our treasure! Like any good adventure, the most important step is believing you will make it. Now, before you roll your eyes at what sounds like “magical thinking”, understand that when you believe in yourself, your service or product, and your client, you will have laser focus to allow you the most direct growth.
 
One of the most powerful ways to guide your planning is to use the perspective of the woman you are trying to become. What will this woman look like, act like, think like, speak like, and what will she believe about herself and her business. Once you have her in mind, you can begin to create goals and find the belief to take massive action! She’s got your back! Cheers to your best year yet!"

Outsource Where You Can
Jamie Schertenleib, 503 Clean 

"So many mom business owners are trying to juggle every aspect of business and family life and seem to be barely treading water. 
 
Many women have found that by outsourcing things such as house cleaning and other tasks they can free up more time to be able to work on things that can keep forward momentum going for the growth and profitability of their business.
 
Remember while outsourcing helps free up your time you are also provided with the opportunity to help support another local mom owned business in the process!"

Choose Harmony
Susan Bender Phelps, Odyssey Mentoring
 
"Most of us have multiple competing commitments.

We run a business and have a family - BOOM! We might also have a day job - BOOM! If we are doing either of the above and taking care of a chronically ill child, spouse or parent - BOOM! If we have our own chronic health problems - BOOM!

Thinking we can balance it all is a nasty myth. It’s easy to achieve balance, but once you do, you can only sustain it if you stay absolutely still. If you’re really talented, you can move but veeeeerrrrry slowly. Trying to balance it all causes more stress and reduces our focus to standing still. Harmonizing keeps us in motion. When you are planning and taking action – consider how what you want to accomplish can be done in harmony with your life. The freedom will be worth it!

Prioritize Self Care
Sarah Nelson, Ancient Fern Medicine

No matter what your goals are for 2019, you can bet that planning ahead for your self care will go a long way in helping you achieve them.

I recommend scheduling ahead as many aspects of your self care that you can. Waiting until you're sick, in pain, or suffering from burn out to schedule care for yourself often leads to injury, illness, and a resulting lack of momentum in whatever it is you're hoping to achieve.

Sit down with your calendar and schedule weekly things like exercise, social time, quiet time, and any other ongoing aspects of your self care routine.

Schedule weeks and even months in advance for appointments like massage, acupuncture, and follow ups with your doctor. Not waiting until last minute to schedule will ensure that you stay feeling energized and ready to take on whatever you have planned for 2019. Future you will thank past you for prioritizing your self care.

Are you finally ready to get a handle on your marketing in 2019? Let’s look at the six steps you need to ensure your 2019 is as fantastic as you want it to be!

Define Your Audience

If I ask you “Who is your audience?” and your reply is “Everyone!” – it is time to narrow it down. Your audience isn’t everyone.

Although that may sound scary (are you turning money away??) it is actually a good thing. You can’t talk to everyone, but you can talk to your very specific audience who is eager to hear what you say.

How do you define your audience?

Sometimes you can look at demographics and understand that some ages and personalities are more interested in what you sell – it makes sense to then target your marketing towards that expected audience.

But you can also look at that same information and see who is being overlooked and why. That ignored demographic may be exactly the right fit for your business!

Ask yourself who YOU want to work with – what kind of client would make you jump out of bed the morning of your appointment because you are so excited to work with them? Reach out to those people through your words and images and you’ll have a calendar packed with clients who put a smile on your face.

Make a Plan to Reach Your Customers

Once you’ve determined who your audience is – how do you want to reach them?

Which social media platforms will you use?

Will you blog?

Send emails?

Will you need Pinterest?

Will you need to make videos?

Will you use Facebook advertising?

Do you need to meet your people in person?

Or, more importantly, where do your ideal people hang out? What inspires them? What makes them pay attention? How do they take in information?

Go back through the list of marketing options listed above and ask yourself if the people you want to work with are hanging out in those spots.

If your people aren’t on a social media platform, you likely don’t need to be there either. If, on the other hand, your people love (and I mean LOVE) a platform – it makes sense for you to invest some time there.

Create a Content Calendar

Before you get sweaty palms thinking about a content calendar, let’s break it down into what it actually is – a plan for what you’ll post and when.

That’s it. See? Not so scary, right?

Think about what kinds of content your favorite people to work with would enjoy. What will make them click on your link or video?

Is it “how to” types of content? Is it humor? Is it something that makes them think?

Chances are, it is a mix of all of that and more.

Start collecting, or creating, things your ideal person would respond well to and start scheduling it out via Facebook and other platforms.


Create Long Term Fans

It is one thing to work with someone once. Or have them buy your product or visit your business. It is something else entirely to create a fan who can’t wait to work with you again and tell all their friends about you.

Your service needs to be memorable. That doesn’t mean fireworks, balloons, and grand gestures. It means standing out from what anyone else around you is doing. Be thoughtful. If you were in your client’s position, what would you want from someone who does what you do?

How can you be just a little bit better than you were last week? How can you improve the service, communication, or experience of the NEXT person you work with? And the one after that?

Look for Collaborations

Your business shouldn’t exist in a vacuum. Collaborating with another business is a great way to support another business and expand outside your own audience at the same time.

When thinking about who would be a good collaborator for your business, first pick someone who is just as invested in the collaboration as you are.

Then work with them to create a collaboration that is beneficial to both you. Be aware of any extra time or money required to make your collaboration work.

Gwen Montoya is a marketing strategist who is passionate about making marketing not scary for small business owners.
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​When she's not meeting with clients, you can find her hanging out with her kids, her dog, and the neighborhood peacock, Steve.

Connect with Gwen:
www.gwenmontoya.com
www.instagram.com/gmontoyapdx
www.facebook.com/gmontoyapdx
www.twitter.com/gmontoyapdx

Kelley is a Portland native who loves sandwiches, ice cream, the Great British Bake Off, and struggling through beginning ballet for adults. She is also mom to two little boys and a writer.

She says she has always been a writer and editor at heart. “I was a freelance writer on and off for years, and a blogger just as blogging has been a thing. But after looking at my skill set and the market, I decided to focus on copywriting for small businesses. Now I get to build other women up, help small business owners thrive, and do what I love at the same time,” she explains.
 
Her biggest business struggle is a common struggle among MOBs – lack of time. “I'm a writer, and my husband is a musician, so we juggle childcare. Our schedules are different every week. I have to be careful to prioritize and spend my work time wisely,” she says.

She advises new business owners to make the leap, but also ask for help. “You can’t do it all on your own, so allow yourself to offload professional concerns like marketing, design, childcare, house cleaners... whatever you can afford, as well as personal ones. Find a network (like the MOB) to help expand your skills, business, heart, and mind.”
Kelley’s ideal referral is a business owner with a marketing budget who has a website but wants it to be rewritten to attract their ideal client.

Beyond websites, Kelley can help anyone who wants their written communication to be clear, helpful, and inviting.
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She says the MOB has impacted her business because of the support she receives. She says “You can be yourself as a mom and business owner, be vulnerable, have questions, and celebrate successes. It's awesome.”

Kelley loves working for herself. “When I was at my last desk job, I would have KILLED to have one Tuesday morning where I could take a walk with my kids in the park or sit in a coffee shop working. I was stuck at a desk for 40 hours a week, answering the same email over and over. Now I get to make my own decisions about how I spend my time, I get to help people, and do what I love to do.”

She has an exclusive offer for MOB Alliance members – a Content Quick Fix for just $79 (usually $125-150).
 
Connect with Kelly online:

http://kelleygardiner.com/
https://www.facebook.com/KelleyGardinerContentandCopy/ https://www.instagram.com/kelley.gardiner/

Anne is a life-long lover of food and creativity. Over the years, this passion has taken her in several directions including co-authoring two cookbooks with her fellow foodie mom Donna, attending Boot Camp training at the Culinary Institute of America, writing a long-running food blog (also with Donna), and appearing on The Food Network's first season of the Ultimate Recipe Showdown with her Ultimate Veggie Chili.

She began throwing themed parties almost 15 years ago. The unlikely start was a Halloween party with an infamous Kitty Litter Cake that caused horrified hilarity and sparked Anne’s love of balancing  all things delightful AND delicious.

​She says “I love entertaining and throwing theme parties, and guests at my various shenanigans have been nudging me to start doing it professionally for years. What finally got me to take the leap is the fact that I simply can’t continue to fund all of my events out of my own pocket, but I love doing it so much that I had no choice but to make an honest business out of it at last. I’m so glad that I did, because it synthesizes so many of the creative things that I love: food, fandoms, humor, and a whole lot of terrible, terrible puns,” she explains.

She says her birth mom, who she reunited with in 1999, is a mentor and influential figure.  Anne says “When we were getting to know each other, we immediately started bonding through our shared love of food and cooking, and eventually went on to have all kinds of culinary fun together, including writing to cookbooks, running a food blog, going to CIA boot camp, and of course eating our way through every city we visit. She continues to write cookbooks in her spare time when she’s not working as an award-winning prosecutor, advocating for victims of sexual assault. As someone who has to juggle many different aspects of her life, she is a constant inspiration to me.”

Anne says her biggest struggle in her business is the cost of starting a business like hers. “I have huge dreams and plans for bringing them to life, and am still struggling with finding the resources.”
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She advises new business owners to invest in professional help for things like websites, marketing, graphic design, accounting, and legal advice. “It’s so worth doing it right the first time if it all possible!”

Her ideal referral is someone who is looking for catering for a big event and wants something delicious and fun at the same time. Anne works with her clients to develop their perfect menu and loves to work with clients who have a whimsical and fun side.

Anne says having the support and encouragement of others who really understand the balancing act of being a mom and a business owner has made a huge difference for her. She also enjoys the creative freedom she has working for herself.

Anne offers MOB Alliance members 15% off my per person rate for events

May the Fare be with you.

Find Anne online at:
www.fanfarethemecatering.com
www.facebook.com/fanfarethemecatering
www.instagram.com/fanfarethemecatering
www.twitter.com/Culinerdy

Jessica Hansen is an Efficiency Expert and Productivity Professional,  turning chaos into order, overcoming obstacles, and creating resilience in life and business. She is also the MOB Columbia County chapter leader.

Learn more about Jessica at www.thejessicahansen.com and her non-profit community space The Jubilee Collective.

Dianna’s talent and passion for what she does can make it challenging to explain everything she does and how she does it. She is an artist, an astrologer, an empath, and an advocate.

“I make art. Which on its own is easy to understand, but the art I make is based in a practice that's deeper than just a painting that goes on your wall. Most of what I do is commissioned so it's personal, emotional, soulful and connected to my clients in a way that goes beyond "art" and into magic,” she says.

Dianna’s varied interests find her making jewelry from found objects, up cycling, and making stuffed creatures from upcycled fabric and found objects. She also creates signs and affirmation blocks (called Just Be Blocks). She crochets, sews, and loves to do collaborative projects that are weird and surprising.

On the Astrology side, she gives readings and creates art pieces that are influenced by astrology in different ways, but her work needs to be seen to be understood.

“I've found it's easier to be clear when I am talking to people in person or when my art is present but the digital presentation is more challenging. I am working got that for sure. Obviously people are curious AND bias about Astrology so there is always going to be some explaining and redirecting. I struggle as an Empath to be around a lot of people and that is another thing I am working to manage. I am now studying both Astrology at the Portland School of Astrology AND magic at Blue Iris Mystery School so I know the more I develop my education and experiences the better I will be at expressing what's still bubbling up. Of course THAT is one of them most precious and beautiful things about the MOB overall,” she says.
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Lack of arts education for kids is what originally inspired her work. Over time, that grew into a desire to share art as healing modality. Dianna says, “Process Based Art is so healing and so therapeutic but it's also so fun!”

Although it wasn’t originally planned to be a part of her work, astrology has become an important component. She’s also added in advocacy. “Through the Impact Me Project, I’m trying to make Astrology and Process Based Art more accessible AND to collaborate with more practitioners of magic, creativity and who knows what to see how we can help people think, heal and grow again,” she explains.
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She credits her astrology teacher, Andrea Gerhtz, as someone she looks up to. She’s also been impacted by several fellow MOBs. “Aria, of course, but she is like a sister to me also. And I've worked with Lia Dunlap and she is a triple Leo so she is very helpful to me because I have no fire in me at all really. I also work with Cindy Conlin, she is an acupuncturist and I deeply appreciate her magical influence on me as well,” says Dianna.

She says her biggest struggle has been getting her message into the world. “I have a lot going on and people get overwhelmed. I think people also struggle to purchase my products as a form self care. I think it's seen as a trivial luxury to get art or an astrology reading done. I also struggle to find partnerships or people who can work with me because they also struggle to get my message and often present me with drafts and examples that prove they also don't get it. That is starting to change more and more as I become more clear and practice my craft more and more.”

She advises new business owners to join the MOB. “There is not another resource like it and I can say that coming from a place of remembering the early years. Now it's invaluable and so rich. I am shocked when I ask for help and get 15 choices or ideas.”

She prefers to work with someone who is ready to do the work.

“Astrology is unlike other healing modalities only because it's purpose is to identify the best healing modalities for your uniqueness. It speaks directly to where, when, and how you're stuck. It can be as specific as get acupuncture for your legs or start a daily gratitude practice. It can suggest certain oils or stones or therapies that are going to shoot straight to the heart of the issue the native is currently having. Not all Astrologers really focus on the value of the remediation in Astro. They validate who you are and what you might be going through, they can give you a source for your malady. But a lot of them leave it at that. My teachers are driven to use this tool for the highest good. I know that is why I was so drawn to Portland School of Astrology. They want to ACTIVELY use Astro. So it's less horoscope and more deep, deep process work. I want clients who want to get in there and work. I also want to trade with other practitioners so I can see if they are good referrals and vice versa. This is huge for me too,” she explains.

She says being a part of the MOB makes her feel less alone. “Even though I don't physically participate as much as I want to I always know someone is online. I can just say, HEYYYY and get some kitten memes. Sometimes that is more valuable than a good lead or a referral.”

Dianna says working for herself makes her feel empowered. She loves knowing that she has created her own business.

“Through all of the ups and downs I've never had help from anyone in family (except of course my husband who holds down the survival needs when I have dry spells!) but never from my parents or through any kind of inheritance. My parents never even encouraged me emotionally. I've never had loans or investments. If I had I might not have struggled so hard. But I might not see value in every office supply like I do now. I know what I want to do because I know what I do NOT want to do. I also love that my kids are rad, whole people and that is because I was able to show them what believing in your SELF can do. And also because I got to do more with them. I mean, I worked 90 hour weeks to make up for going on field trips sometimes but now that I am at the end of this journey and my kids are going off to college and finishing high school I can see how worth it all of that sleeplessness was!”
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Connect with Dianna online at:

www.diannafontes.com
www.facebook.com/diannafontesartist/
www.facebook.com/astroartistry.sweetastro/
www.instagram.com/diannafontes.artist/
www.instagram.com/astroartistry/
www.facebook.com/impactmeproject/

When we say #theresamobforthat, we mean it!  We even named our directory, theresamobforthat.com.  We have everything you can think of in our network.

I have started a blog series highlighting the diverse offerings you can find in the directory. This month, fittingly, I am showing you my choices for the top gifts you can snag from our awesome MOBS.  Check it out.  Bookmark this page, for Valentine's Day, Birthdays, and other times you may need to treat someone (or yourself) to something fabulous. 

Adorable, educational toys from Discovery Toys It was hard to choose just one to highlight, DT has an amazing selection of toys for all ages.

Soft and cozy lovies from Hello Wild Baby Co My nephews favorite thing in the world is his lovie from Hello Wild Baby Co!  High Quality, and handmade!

All natural baby care set from Pure Haven Feel confident about what you are putting on babies skin.  Great gift for new moms and the babies in your life. 

The classic shape-o-ball from Tupperware Yes, this is the one you had as a kid- yes it is still cool!

The gift of SLEEP.  More of a gift for everyone else, but sleep consultants are a great way to make sure everyone in your family is sleeping perfectly.
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Baby wash plus hooded towel from Beauty Counter. Another safe body care line, the hooded towel is SO cute.

Custom made wooden peg dolls from Sudie's Corner Create a custom doll, or an entire family!  You can even have a hand painted box to represent a special house or occasion. 

Usborne Books You can never have too many books!  Our family loves Usborne, something for all ages and interests. 

Handmade wooden toys from Mirus Toys These handmade wooden toys are not only fun, but make great keepsakes and heirlooms. Puzzles, play dough tools, trays, and more. 

Classic toys that require imagination from Discovery Toys You will want to play with your kids, guaranteed!  Hours of wholesome fun.

Micro Kickboard scooters from River Rock Kids What a dream toy right?  These are sure to make your littles VERY happy! 

Board Games from Simply Fun So many board games to choose from.  Fun for the whole family. 

Mini-entertainers set from Tupperware This tiny set is great for play kitchens, tea parties, and teddy bear picnics!

Kid's fashion subscription box from Mac & Mia How amazing would it be to try on clothes in your own home, instead of fighting with your kids at the store?  Keep what you love, send back what you do not! 
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Mini-Baker's set from Pampered Chef Everything your kiddo needs to fall in love with baking. 

Grayson Bracelet from Premier Designs Simple jewelry for your teen. 

Snag a gift card from one of our awesome online boutiques- Mary Rose, Lularoe, Arabella Boutique, or She Shed Boutique. We all know teens love to shop! 

Maskcara Beauty Highlight and Countour set- Highlight and Contour is the big craze!  Put together a custom color palette your teen will be sure to love. 

Skincare line for men from Pure Haven We all know teen boys can use some help in the self care department!  Everything from skin serum to shave cream.

Coloring Books from Usborne Books Gorgeous designs that will help reduce stress and reduce screen time. 

Brush set from Crunchi Cosmetics Vegan brush set is a dream gift for the makeup lover in your home. 

Lipsense long lasting lipgloss These popular glosses last all day, and come in an array of fashion colors.  

​LOVE necklace (or anything) from Stella & Dot Simple, elegant, beautiful.  My teen selected this necklace for the guide! 
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Trushine Gel Laquer Kit from Jamberry Everything you need for an at home, long lasting, gel manicure. 

Counterman Travel set from Beauty Counter Great gift for husbands!  Shave cream, exfoliating cleanser, aftershave, and lotion.

Men's Duffle Bag from Sseko Designs Gorgeous Leather bag for the traveling man. 

Bossman Watch from Premeir Designs Sleek, classic look, that goes with everything. 

Drew Estates Cigar Sampler from Cascade Cigar Sampler pack of the most popular cigars! 

Engravable Cufflinks from Stella & Dot Unique and elegant gift that you can customize. 
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Good Karma Sleek Coffee gift set from One Hope Strong coffee and a sleek travel mug. 

Photo Keepsake Keychain from Plunder Add photos of your family and a special message.  Grandparents will be sure to treasure this for years! 

Wildtree meal giftsets Seasoning and sauces for the person who loves to cook! (Plus gifts for people like me, who cannot cook and need fool proof meal options). 

Sassy shirts from Mom Brain Club My mom loves everyone to know she's the boss!

Scentsy warmer and scents There is truly a style for every home in the scentsy collection! 

Infinity Scarf from Noonday Designs Gorgeous scarf to add color to any outfit.
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Candles from Lite it Forward My favorite candles in the world, so many scents, and styles!

Charcol Mask from MaryKay Give the gift of self care! 

Custom Made glitter Tumbler from Teal Willow Designs Handcrafted with special message sure to brighten their day. 

Handcare set from Jamberry  More self care! Teachers work with their hands a lot.

Just Be Blocks from Dianna Fontes Hand painted blocks with special messages!

Cleaning supplies from Shaklee Teachers often have to buy things for their classrooms!  Safe and natural cleaning supplies are a win/win. 
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Handcrafted home decor from Freckled and Free​ Another handcrafted item, you can customize with an inspiring message. 

NW Love in a box gift box Exactly what the name says!  

Glitter Champagne from One Hope Great for special clients!  You can choose from Rainbow, Gold, or Silver. Bonus- each bottle supports charity! 

Wine from one of our fantastic wine makers- Koi Pond Cellars, Rose & Fern, Gonzales Wine.

​Whimsy Chocolates A MOB favorite!  Handcrafted chocolates.  

Coffee from one of our fantastic coffee roasters- Willamette Coffeehouse, Rose City Coffee, and Starship coffee. Because...coffee.
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Grown and Crated holiday box A gorgeously curated gift box sure to show your clients how much you appreciate them.

Men's charcoal soap from Arbonne Self care is important for men too.

Lego soap from Inspired Spice Make bath time fun!

Heart heating pads from Pure Romance Portable, self heating pads.  Trust me- you need these. 

Cuticle Oil from Jamberry Nails An essential!

Bathbombs from Sugar Suds Unicorn bathbombs...enough said. 

Cheat sheets/eye masks from Perfectly Posh Honestly, a stocking full of Perfectly Posh would be my dream.

Beard balm from Pure Haven Essentials Keep him looking sharp!

Laquer strips from Color Street Easy to apply nail polish strips! So many colors to choose from, make sure to grab a variety.

Makeup Brush Cleaning Pad Keep those brushes clean. An important, but overlooked part of skincare. 

Beauty Blender from EVER Skincare A must have, for any makeup lover.

Custom Headband from Geekitup Lot's of "geeky" fabrics to choose from.

$5 bling from Paparazzi At this price, you can really stock up! 

Makeup bag, "pouf" from Stella & Dot A great carry all, in a variety of colors.

Clip on tassels from Sseko Designs Jazz up handbags, wallets, keychains- you name it.  Very versatile!

Shaker Bottle from Isagenix My favorite water bottle ever, everyone needs one (or three). 

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