Genetics certainly works in strange ways. Jennifer Kettle is one of those people born with the uncanny ability to view a subject and capture it accurately as a work of art.

A Sarnia native and SCITS grad, Jenn had been “drawing and doodling” since infancy, and her artwork garnered her several awards at student art shows in high school (and during her professional career as well in 2009, she won Bronze in the Summit International Award competition.) Advised by her instructors to go into graphic design, Jenn initially took a year in that field at Lambton College, followed by another year at St. Clair County Community College, where she was the initial recipient of the prestigious Patrick Bourke Award for Outstanding Excellence in Visual Art for her budding graphic design talent.  Her tenure at St. Clair introduced her to the world of computerized artwork generation, where she obviously excelled.

Upon graduation, she was quickly snapped up by a local advertising agency as a Junior Graphic Designer, working on some of the logos accompanying this article that many readers in the Sarnia Lambton area will quickly recognize. After almost a decade, she was hired on at another budding new Marketing Company in Sarnia and even redesigned its logo!

Alas, regional economic downturns affect even the best of us, and after a culmination of 13 years of professional successful graphic design, Jennifer found herself a victim of downsizing.

“At that moment, it seemed like the worst of times,” relates Jennifer. “I had just become a new Mom and there were no real prospects for me locally. Fortunately, I had done some investing in myself in terms of having a computer that could accommodate most of the state-of-the-art graphic software I had been purchasing all along to continue my passion in design.”

Like so many other regional entrepreneurs that one reads about on this website, Jenn discovered the opportunities presented by the local Business Development Corporation.  She found that going through the “Dragon’s Den” exercise, wherein successful local business people fire at her a barrage of questions about her proposed enterprise, was particularly valuable.

“I really hadn’t had that much experience dealing directly with clients as an employee,” she recalls, “I was the one always plugging away on the computer and just having the assignments placed on my desk. Fielding questions about my proposed business gave me some great insights into how to relate to future clients.”

Once the Sarnia Lambton BDC approved Jennifer’s business plan, they were able to provide her with the wherewithal to expand her tools at home and do some self-promotion.

“I undertook some minor print advertising, attended the local Chamber of Commerce Business After Five functions and Chamber Showcase with moderate success, but my real breaks came from the reputation I had built through client work I had created at my former agencies.”

As far as current challenges, she never realized the amount of additional paperwork involved in being her own boss!

“I’ve learned during my career the importance to track my design hours, but now I’ve started to carry a book with me at all times to write down all the little things, like time spent on the phone, responding to emails, driving and virtually writing down everything I do that fills up my day. If it weren’t for the assistance of the great staff over at the BDC, I would have been finished before I started!”

For more information on the scope of Jennifer’s work, you’re invited to visit her website at www.redkettlestudios.com

“When You Know Better, You Do Better!”

Occasionally, circumstances arise where an entrepreneur starts a business that has virtually found her!

Catherine Chaykoski has transformed herself to become sole proprietor of Healthy Workplace Management (HWM). Healthy Workplace Management specializes in effectively managing Occupational and Non-Occupational disability files, such as Workers Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) claims. HWM services are tailored to employers specific business needs in this regard.

Catherine explains, “When you enlist Healthy Workplace Management, you save time, money and gain desired results, while protecting your business.”

Catherine was a long time employee of Canada Post Corporation with over several decades of working her way up through the ranks in many communities across Canada in capacities such as Mail Clerk, Supervisor, Superintendent and Project Manager. Catherine was also appointed as a Health and Safety Officer. This position culminated in her being named the CP Corporate Liaison to the WSIB.  The role of the Liaison allowed Catherine to build a mutual respect between Team Leaders, Employees and the WSIB up to and including Human Resource Skills Development Canada (HRSDC).   “Of all my positions held, being the Liaison was my favourite and most rewarding,” Catherine recalls.  “I had the satisfaction of successfully resolving many ongoing and difficult files. I could understand injured employees, relate to the needs of the Team Leaders, respect the unions’ input and cascade the requirements of the WSIB process to all.” It was that very same position that first brought Catherine out to the Sarnia Lambton area. Years later Catherine relocated to Sarnia as the local area Manager. She fell in love with the community, but not the position. “My heart was back in claims. I knew it was my niche.”

Not entirely surprisingly, because of Catherine’s Liaison capacity she received many frustrated calls from other employers regarding the intricacies of the WSIB process and, being the customer-driven personality that she was, Catherine obliged them all with information that she suddenly realized was not as common knowledge as one might think.

Catherine was able to master the complex and mandatory procedures involving WSIB processes.  The difficulty, she discovered, lay at the employers’ end of most situations.

“How are employers expected to effectively manage WSIB claims when they lack knowledge and experience?” Catherine asserts.  “Not only do they require such knowledge, they also need to know best practices. The WSIB process requires accountability and strategic planning. Employers need to know how to return – safely and properly  – their employees back to their pre-injured positions; this is key to stay in business. The severity of the circumstances weakens their  morale and the adjunct expenses are contributing to businesses closing.”

In most companies, responsibility for handling WSIB claims land on the desk of either the Employer or the Human Resources (HR) department. In speaking with HR professionals Catherine has heard innumerable frustrations of dealing with the WSIB.  “Even the most knowledgeable professionals have difficulty. How would an unenlightened employer have a chance with this process?” Catherine continues to explain, “In many businesses that do not have a HR department, the employer will try and manage a WSIB claim themselves. This is like jumping into deep water and not knowing how to swim. The employer will try his/her best, but frequently wind up wasting valuable time and money. Many files go so terribly wrong  that the Employer will turn to a labour lawyer”.

Ironically, in 2011, Catherine’s Doctor confirmed that her own health conditions and the requirements of the Managers position were no longer suitable for her.  “I will always remember how supportive Canada Post was.” she recalls. “They offered me to many other positions. This meant I would have to relocate yet again. It was not physically possible”.  She felt that it was time to take a break – and had no clear “Plan B” in terms of where her career might go. “I knew my knowledge and experience was important and I was not about to move again – and then it dawned on me  that I could be a valuable resource for both employers and employees who could save them a lot of time, energy and money in showing them how to effectively manage their WSIB files.  I could even handle all of the mandatory documentation from start to finish – saving companies, in many cases, the expensive costs of dealing with lawyers.”

Catherine’s first steps entailed, like many budding entrepreneurs in the Sarnia Lambton community, approaching the local Business Development Corporation.  She wowed the consultants right away with her knowledge, business idea and now she is in the midst of promoting it in the Sarnia Lambton market.

“I position myself and HWM with the prime directive of returning employees safely and efficiently to the workplace”, Catherine continues, “When a workplace injury occurs, if one or both sides are not clear about their role and responsibilities damage can result not only to the reintegration of the employee but also their ongoing relationship, I’m here to prevent that from happening.”

Catherine has organized a series of workshops for the Sarnia Business community to help them navigate through the perceived murky waters of WSIB, which she likens to “being pushed into deep waters without knowing how to swim.” She adds, “Employers tell me they feel hopeless and dragged under”. “They need to feel empowered and open to learning best practices. When you know better you do better.”

She has joined the local Chamber of Commerce to further promote her business contacts and feels very empowered by the overwhelmingly positive results she got from doing a preliminary survey among the business community about the viability of such a business.  Her only competitors at this point are employers and HR professionals who deal with WSIB directly.  Such “competition” may have the required knowledge but also may lack the expertise and/or the experience to utilize strategic thinking.  Catherine knows she can assist virtually any firm affected by workplace injury claims and save them possibly a lot of money and aggravation in the process – even to the extent that she can ensure that the file in question is “pristine” before it needs to go to a labour lawyer, or in fact even needs to go to an attorney.

What would Catherine share with someone thinking about starting up his/her own business?

“Make sure you love what you do, but most of all, make absolutely sure that there is a need for your business.”

Once the word gets out, Catherine will no doubt be helping many businesses in need and chances are, prevent them from needlessly going under.

www.healthyworkplacemanagement.com

Imagine an event where you get a mixture of Dragon’s Den, Toastmasters and a national think tank all rolled into one.

Such is the nature of Western Engineering’s Capstone Design and Competition, now in its eighth year at the Western Sarnia Lambton Research Park where fifteen teams of 4th year Chemical Engineering students from Western University present green-oriented technological improvements to various industrial processes currently being employed around the world.   In this particular competition, the categories were threefold:

•  Renewable Energy & Chemicals and Biochemical & Pharmaceutical
•  Fossil Energy and Clean Fuels
•  Waste Treatment and Utilization

In many ways, these groups of gifted futurists are very much like entrepreneurs – they must come up with an innovative concept that they can “sell” to a team of investors, only in this case, the “investors”  are veteran professional engineers who are experts in their own various fields and volunteer to judge the competition.  The Dragon’s Den aspect comes in at the end of the presentation, where the judges pepper the contestants with erudite questions based on methodology, components and economic implications (i.e., return on investment) on the project they’ve just presented.

The concepts presented by these talented engineers of tomorrow were astounding.  From obtaining new sources of energy from underground mining operations or solid municipal waste to production of pharmaceuticals from microalgae to even production of lactic acid from molasses, these students had obviously researched their proposals exhaustively.   Questions from the panels were fielded with great enthusiasm and expertise and, for the vast majority, the judges seemed very impressed and satisfied with the responses.

According to Dr. Katherine Albion, the Bowman Centre Manager at the Sarnia-Lambton Research Park, not only are these students given a chance to experience “real life” under these circumstances, they also have a shot at making their technological innovations bear fruit.

“These 4th year chemical and biochemical engineers have worked very hard to polish their presentations.  While we enjoy $15,000 in sponsorships from local industry for this event, many of the students are always hoping to be recognized in one of the best forms of all – a job offer.  And while it is not common, it does happen.”

One of the students present, Jessica Lucier, who hails from Port Lambton, does indeed aspire to just such an outcome.  She was on a team of four presenting on “Production of Pharmaceutical Grade Phycocyanin from Microalgae”.   While this sounds somewhat daunting to laypersons like this writer, the commercial implications of producing a pharmaceutical product through naturally-occurring biological means are enormous – and could lead to gainful employment in the future.

“To produce phycocyanin in a natural and sustainable manner would be important”, Jessica explains, “as it is both an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory plus an immunity booster.  Because it fluoresces when antibodies attack a tumour, it hastens the discovery of the location of tumours in the body.”

Now in her sixth year at Western and enrolled in her fourth year of biochemical and environmental engineering, Jessica says that competition for jobs is very fierce, even in her esoteric field. “I’m currently in the process of sending out resumes to companies that I have targeted and would like to work for,” she says, “but competitions of this nature help all of us in getting the exposure we need to important potential employers in the Bio and Chemical engineering fields.”

Ultimately, the efforts of Dr. Albion and the staff at Western Sarnia-Lambton Research Park make a significant contribution to the facility’s stature as a think tank and breeding ground for technological, environmental and biological advancements that will increase the quality of life for all of us.  Just as important, it is refreshing to see young talent on the rise and even better, finding important work in the Sarnia Lambton region.

Holliby Ross is a unique combination of esoteric talents. Even her education is remarkable, having first graduated from a two year Fine Arts Program at Beal in London, then attending and distinguishing herself at the University of Nova Scotia’s College of Fine Arts and Design where she majored in Media Arts and took a minor in Graphic Design. It’s in the latter, notably Graphic Design in fashion, where Holliby really makes people sit up and take notice.

Now co-proprietor of Raw Symmetry on 148 Front Street in Sarnia along with her sister Bree, Holliby is breaking new fashion and accessory ground virtually every day. As part of an increasing number of entrepreneurs who are now looking at the whole planet as a potential market, Holliby and her sister have used their collective experience in “Wearable Art”. For over a decade, Holliby has been staging “WAG’s” (Wearable Art Galas) for exhibitions and fundraisers in Halifax, B.C. and southwestern Ontario.

Referring to themselves as the RAWSista Collective, Holliby and Bree believe fashion and art are 2 different entities. A one- of -a -kind fashion product makes it original – therefore, the purchaser respects that fact whether they are buying for him/herself or the ultimate recipient. Original runway outrageousness & oddities are a perfect example of Wearable Art, especially when using materials that go beyond the sewing machine and moving into “architecture for the body”. Once these items move off the runway they get modified for mass consumption – and that is why a shop like Raw Symmetry stands as more art-based. Clients who patronize an outlet like this are more likely to be trendsetters as opposed to trendy people.

Wearable art is impressive. Outfits can be comprised of almost any medium you can think of – from bottle caps to coins to candy – and are only limited by the imagination of the designer. Holliby has taken this approach literally to the streets, and has reaped nothing but benefits for her and many other designer/makers. When asked about how she would make any money from showcasing Wearable Art by fundraising for causes such as she has been known for, her response is clear when one browses the shop; begin with accessories – most wearable art is meant for a one time showing whereas one-of-a-kind accessories are more accessible. According to Holliby, “Lady Gaga has made it easier to explain what wearable art is…all I have to do is name drop Gaga and people understand, whereas pre-Gaga it was certainly more challenging. We have been doing this from coast to coast in Canada for well over a decade. When you consider that most fashion is regurgitated then its certainly comforting, for myself at least, to know there is innovation in a multi-billion “dolla” industry but it’s safe to say we all need to be clothed and we are simply tapping into a market that seeks and meets individualism.”

Holliby has long recognized that being an entrepreneur is hard work and that the critical point for any self employed designer is getting started and, especially, getting recognized. Thus Raw Symmetry has become in and of itself a staging area for currently 30 national/regional/local designers to showcase their talent and still make the proprietors’ operation profitable. You will find in Holliby and Bree’s storefront nothing but one-of-a-kind fashions and accessories that will enthrall art lovers and style trend pioneers alike.

Some designers are chosen simply to test-pilot their original wares, while others have already made a dent across the country. Raw Symmetry houses designers that sell in over 20 shops Canada-wide. According to Holliby, “ I think it’s more important than ever to locate and promote our neighbouring “fashion-forward” designer/makers…keep in mind these people design & create their items in Canada and it is our pleasure to be able to expose their concepts.“

Just as important, Holliby has a refreshing belief in the revitalization of downtown Sarnia. Having returned to her native city in 2009, Holliby has seen many incarnations of downtown business, and thrives in the present day atmosphere of cooperation – not competition- that exists among city core merchants. She sees, and is an important part of, a big renaissance in Sarnia’s artistic community.

“I feel like I’m growing with the flow” whereas in a larger metropolis I feel I have to go with the flow. “ Holliby says of the renewed optimism in downtown spirit.

Indeed, every First Friday you’ll see her shop not only full of people oohing and aahing over innovative artistic style, but also appreciating the featured “Eclectic Art” hung on the walls, along with the accompanying guest musicians.

Even at her relatively young age, Holliby has become wise beyond her years in entrepreneurial wisdom. While she administered her own bookkeeping in her first year of business, she knew that her talents were more artistically-driven. However, she does recommend a very simple accounting practice. “Try your own bookkeeping at first and see how it goes. Purchase 12 ziplock bags or manila envelopes and use one a month to contain all of your invoices and purchase receipts,” Holliby advises.

Now that she does have an accountant on board, Holliby’s dream is to extend further into men’s wear and accessories and gain further access into the global marketplace. Her philosophy as an Artist:

“My objective is to facilitate the emergence of images that communicate on a deep sub-conscious level through the mediums I’ve discovered thus far. This idea predominates all of my work. With the heightened wave of technology, a new level of communication has emerged worldwide. It is my interest to investigate the nature and ideological setting of the creative process, under these new conditions, proposing possibilities for better or worse. My work in public installations has raised awareness of the effects of technological surveillance on privacy (as in the case of satellite technology). Much of my work concerns the triangular relationship between technology, Mother Nature & human nature. My objective is to continue this path of interaction with the viewer creating something positive, hopefully inspiring.”

Moreover, Holliby intends to delve deeper into her Videographer persona, while her sister, Bree, is the photographer for the media side of the business. While she won’t necessarily showcase every designer that wishes to be promoted through Raw Symmetry, she will steer them in the right direction to help new designers “get a leg up” in getting their products to market.

And what about the moniker “Raw Symmetry”? It turns out that it is a clever combination of the symbiotic energy between the two sisters formulated from “Ross” symmetry!

If you want a glimpse of an individual who truly is futuristic in marketing approach and will no doubt be a major asset in Sarnia’s artistic resurgence, grow with an inspirational flow yourself and check out Raw Symmetry – eclectic artistry, millinery and accessories. www.rawsymmetry.com &
https://www.facebook.com/rawsymmetry

Like many good entrepreneurs, Melanie Smith has an eye for improvement in everyday things; she strives to find healthier alternatives without sacrifice.

Melanie knew that current tanning technology satisfied most clients, but results were potentially harmful. From firsthand experience, Melanie suffered irreversible skin damage, and overnight could no longer use tanning beds. “I never thought it would happen to me.”

“I love beauty and fitness, I love the benefits of being healthy and looking great. I instantly knew that I needed to find a healthy alternative.” Melanie went to work searching for just the right product, and when she did, she flew out to Orange County California and trained to be an airbrush artist using a popular product that has appeared on many TV shows, magazine covers, and much more. It has even appeared on the Victoria Secret Runway. The line was exactly what Melanie was looking for. No orange tint, no streaking, and no unpleasant odour! She was so excited about this product, and the fact that the main ingredients were beet juice (pinkish in colour) and sugar cane meant that it was healthy enough she could share it with her friends and family.

As a result, her company Go Be was formed and approved by the Sarnia Lambton Business Development Corporation (SLBDC). “I’m really pumped about the company name because of the many applications I can apply to my philosophy”, says Melanie. “My target market, which is primarily anyone between the ages of 16 – 75, will be able to relate to my company’s name. We can promote phrases like “Go Be Glam, Go Be Fit, Go Be Green, Go Be Fab – basically Go Be anything that makes you lead a happier, healthier life…. just Go Be.“

As well as her new lines in tanning alternatives, Melanie has directed her attention to other upgrades for common “stuff` we use every day. Many of us take working at a desk for granted, but Melanie saw back aggravation, posture issues and eyestrain. “I saw an opportunity to help through another product line that embraced my business and life philosophies. I saw an opportunity to adapt a desk to conditions that maximize our productivity and our health. Many studies show that sedentary workstations cause many health issues including obesity.” It was time to stand up for what she believed in…. height adjustable desks designed by the user.

In her deference to environmental considerations, Melanie is carrying a newer line of fashionable water bottles. Such designer bottles are made of durable BKR glass as opposed to plastic, and covered in colourful silicone sleeves. They’ re favourites of stars such as Kate Walsh, Reese Witherspoon, Miley Cyrus, Katherine Heigl and Natalie Portman to name a few. They also have been showcased in countless magazines and product watches. “I love when fashion meets functionality.”

Melanie has a career background that brings with it several tools necessary for successful entrepreneurialism. As a cocktail server/bartender at Casino Windsor she learned vital interpersonal skills and, while working in real estate, she acquired many business and accounting skills that complemented her education in Business Management to aid in her new venture as well.

She strategically chooses the places she markets her products, bearing in mind the like-minded consumers she seeks frequent beauty salons and nail salons, for example. Melanie is “just beginning to dabble in social marketing”, but very excited about the products she can bring to the marketplace and has plans to attend several regional trade shows.

“I’m very proud to showcase merchandise that demonstrates out-of-the-box thinking. There is always a way to make an everyday product better, and I’m going to try and ensure that we can have access to it!” Melanie asserts.

She admits she still has a lot to learn about the world of self- employment but credits the Sarnia Lambton Business Development Corporation for giving her a start. “We now live in a rapidly changing world, and my social conscience is always helping me see potential problems and seek positive solutions.”

One can access the Go Be line of positive solutions by calling Melanie at 519-466-4464.

Entrepreneurism like this will definitely improve many corners of the world!

If you could find a way to make something old new again, benefit the environment and make a living doing so all at the same time, wouldn’t you be on board in an instant?

Randa Roberts thinks so, and is on the brink of bringing her fledgling company,  So Comfy Design, into the world.

Just try on one of her hand-sewn products – mittens, for example – and you’re not only taken by the comfort level, but the story behind the product as well.

“These mittens were created entirely from refashioned sweaters,” explains Randa, “and the scarf I’m wearing was made using pajama bottoms and an old crew neck sweatshirt – a lot of this used clothing was destined to wind up in the landfill.”

In fact, Randa’s new enterprise benefits everyone, after a fashion.  The concept is named accordingly: refashioning  (or “upcycling”) and it means using parts of virtually every item of clothing one can think of -  and turning them not only into functional new apparel, but often very stylish and trendy as well.

“I’ve often wondered what becomes of all the clothes that one sees in retail stores that don’t sell, and was inspired to create new articles comprised of discarded ones,” Randa says.

Randa has been inspired by her lineage, with both her mother and grandmother being “crafters and knitters, and took to sewing with a natural skill.  She tried out the Fashion Design Program at Fanshawe College but was truly inspired by the trends she was seeing in every city – such as refashioning.  She started making headbands and sandals out of old tee shirts from around the house.  These creations generated enough revenue that, coupled with much praise from her friends and associates, she was ready to take her business to the next level.  “Being married with two children, my family’s support led me to believe I could make a career out of doing this – something I love!”

Randa was already aware of the Sarnia Lambton Business Development Corporation, but was still pleasantly surprised by the array of services they provide for new entrepreneurs and also the encouragement they dole out.  “From my previous position in a not-for-profit organization I was carrying a lot of the necessary skills already, such as accounting math, writing and computer prowess, so I knew I could do this…the staff at the SLBDC confirmed this for me, and, with their approval of my business plan earlier this fall,  gave me the confidence to know that I could succeed!”

The target market for Randa’s clothing is, at the current time, is women aged 19-65 years of age.  While samples of her handiwork have been recently appearing on Facebook , Randa believes firmly in the personal touch and seeks out like-minded craftspeople instead of perceiving them as competition.

“I approached Holliby Ross, one of the proprietors of RawSymmetry Eclectic Artistry in downtown Sarnia and her reaction convinced me I was on the right path.  Not only did she like my work, but had my designs and me in the store as the featured artist for a First Friday in December 2012!  Ms. Ross has actually created a collective community of fashion designers in the Sarnia area that enable fashion hunters to see local Canadian designs,” Randa points out.

Moreover, with Lambton College now involved in the same enterprise through its Fashion Business Program (where  their Style Lab is a learning facility for  students to learn all about ordering trendy new fashions,  merchandising and running a retail operation), Randa has been able to market her designer wear at an outlet there as well.  “They liked my designs and the idea behind them so much that they offered to sell them in the Style Lab.  I am so excited about working with them because I have a lot to learn on the business side as well,” says Randa.

Considering herself “the ultimate consumer”, Randa is very careful that her one-of-a-kind fashion creations will appeal to her target market not only on the basis of environmental consciousness, but on price point as well.  “I am very fair about what I charge for these items, based on the amount of labour involved but I also appreciate that much of my material has been obtained in a very cost-effective manner.  I am always looking for free stuff that still has a lot of life in it and can be kept away from the landfill.”

Now working with a local graphic designer to complete her label, Randa is very comfortable about her unique selling proposition (USP):  “I believe in affordable, comfortable unique designs that not only make a good statement, but offer durability and suggest a love for the world we live in.”

She also believes very strongly in a sound business plan, which she says exercises and experience at the SLBDC helped her to achieve.   She also wants to point out that, “The resources in Sarnia are incredible to help you achieve success in your own business!”

Now developing a new spring line including upcycled tee shirts and lace,  Randa keeps visioning new concepts and combinations. With her boundless  enthusiasm and determination, not to mention an wide variety of clothing that’s stylish, functional and truly unique to the wearer, we should see this entrepreneur “seamingly”  achieve great success -  after a fashion.

Sometimes inspiration quite literally hits you where you live. Doug Jones, a native Sarnian, obtained a degree in psychology from the University of Windsor with aspirations of pursuing a career in policing.  When this didn’t pan out as expected, Doug dabbled in some other related activities, like being a bodyguard for visiting diplomats in Toronto, various private investigative contracts  and `bouncing“ in a few bars.  Along the way, Doug “started cooking and began to quite enjoy it“, leading him to a 13 year run as a chef in Windsor.

Eventually, various circumstances led Doug and his wife Melissa back to Sarnia, where a tough job market led him to considering a career in self-employment.  The turning point came when Doug and Melissa had their first child (Daine) and inspiration struck.

Doug asked himself the simple question:  “Why can’t I give my child the best I can make?”

With his abilities in the art of cuisine and creative mind when it came to mixing unconventional ingredients, Doug realized that there could be an enormous market for baby food – with that special Jones twist to it.  That “twist“ turns out to be not only mixing disparate flavours, but using only fresh ingredients and scrapping preservatives altogether.

`My wife and I came to realize that off-the-shelf products one purchases at the grocery store contained an enormous amount of preservatives (mainly to preserve colour) that would not only increase the cost of ingredients, but incorporate just that many more chemicals into an infant`s diet“ Doug says, “and we figured that today`s parents would be ready to start trying more all-natural nutrition for their children.“

The next step was to survey potential customers to see if his idea would fly.  His customers being parents (of course), Doug had the brilliant but simple idea of approaching the numerous young families that frequent Canatara Park’s animal farm.  He surveyed over hundred parents with newborns and toddlers and the response was “overwhelmingly positive.”

Thus the idea for his company, Cubes, was born, along with his new son.  Doug took his idea to the Sarnia Lambton Business Development Corporation (SLBDC) and after several months of developing a business plan, he presented it to the local “Dragons Den“.   The result?  “They all thought it was awesome!“ says Doug.

The idea being sound, Doug’s next challenges were marketing and distribution.  At the time of this writing, Doug has concentrated his efforts from an advertising perspective on promoting his products on Kijiji and Facebook, as well as distributing flyers.  Production and distribution currently takes place out of Personal Touch Eatery on Mitton Street.

Just to give our readers some idea of the innovative products Doug hand-makes, consider these creations: * Garbonzo Bean and Roasted Red Pepper * Apple and Beet * Roasted Butternut Squash and Orange

Another important aspect of Doug’s philosophy is his insistence on buying locally.  “I figure it’s important to support the local growers and it just enhances the freshness and nutrition of my products.”  He emphasizes the “human touch” – literally – of his business.  “While large factories churn out massive quantities of infant nutrition into millions of jars, there is an increased risk of tainted food, or even glass from the jars getting into the food.  I oversee the whole process, from concept to creation to the canning process, and you get my personal guarantee of absolute quality nutrition in every jar.  After all, I feed it to my own son”.

Doug adds another unique selling proposition (USP) to his business – he delivers.  You select from his menu of baby food prepared absolutely fresh, call him up, and he’ll drop it off right at your door.  Doesn’t get much more convenient than that!

Infants are not necessarily the only beneficiaries of Doug’s cuisine.  He plans very soon to market to seniors and people with gastro-intestinal disabilities due to the fact that his food is not only incredibly nutritious, but eminently digestible.

Now “living the dream” thanks to his domestic inspiration, Doug knows he still has a challenging road ahead of him when it comes not only to creating awareness in his target markets, but being prepared for success.  However, he revels in the fact that he does have control over his own destiny and encapsulates it in four words:   “I’m my own boss!”

Stephanie and Rae bring to your table an astounding array of talent that far transcends just “home sitting”. The “Elite” aspect of their business lies in the fact that Rae, a former travel agent, is also available to help you plan a vacation – or even a business trip – including every little detail you can think of, short of making the actually bookings. Stephanie, a lady of many talents in her own right, is an accomplished interior designer so any innovations you’d like to take care of in your absence can be addressed by her.

How did this business come about? Quite simply, they began by confronting a common problem themselves. Rae and Stephanie are neighbours who decided to take a joint vacation with their husbands, until they discovered there was so much to be taken care of that they could not leave – together – so they dispatched their hubbies on a holiday and began to brainstorm about solutions for people with similar challenges.

“We quickly discovered that we had many complementary abilities and could take home sitting to entirely new level.” Rae explains, “To begin with, we offer concierge-type services above and beyond normal home care. We can have your place completely spruced up, including a fully stocked kitchen if you like, for your return home so that when you come back into your house, you can actually take some quality time to unwind.”

Both women have an extraordinary range of experience when it comes to pets as well. Stefanie and Rae fear no critter, having raised, (or cared for, at some point) birds, reptiles, amphibians, insects and a wide range of furry animals. They have all the necessary veterinary contacts to ensure your pets are well looked after should an emergency arise in your absence.

Operating in the Camlachie area, these business proprietors will assist any home/business generally in Lambton County.
From a marketing standpoint, Stephanie and Rae have exhaustively thought about their clientele, and how to get their message across to them. According to Rae, “We have left postcards with our vital information at the offices of area veterinarians, pet groomers, dog-walking areas, travel agencies, pet stores and the Humane Society, as well as introducing ourselves to all the associated owners.”

They have established a website (www.homenaway.ca) that details an extensive list of their homecare and concierge services. Advertising appears in local weekly newspapers and marketplace websites. “At one point we decided to go through a radical change in our advertising approach”, Rae says, “and that cost us about three weeks delay in our marketing campaign.”

Graduates of the Sarnia Lambton Business Development Corporation, they underwent a “Dragon’s Den” exercise in business scrutiny, which Rae says was incredibly beneficial. “They asked me several questions about my business plan about things I hadn’t considered”, she reflects, “and their assistance proved invaluable when we were in the throes of getting set up.” Her main advice to up and coming entrepreneurs is “Be prepared for a big bump from the theory of setting up a business to the reality that lies waiting!”

Now barely a month old, reality includes word about their business spreading fast and they are scurrying about several locations introducing all the services they offer that will ensure any time clients spend away from home will be as worry-free as possible.

A singular service offered by two very talented women that offers much peace of mind – that’s sure to solve a few pet peeves!

She is also a finalist for a FUEL (Future Entrepreneurial Leaders) Award – provincial recognition for business ownership excellence.
“I knew from a very early age that I wanted to run my own business,” Brooke says, “Even before I knew I wanted to be a hair stylist.” That’s not too surprising, given that both of her parents operate a business as well in the same town.

“My Mother and Father continue to give me great advice even to this day. I was taught accounting by my Mom, which has been a blessing when it comes to creating good filing habits in terms of dealing with the government.”

There are many admirable traits about Brooke’s business philosophies, but like other entrepreneurs who are successful enough to hire staff due to business expansion, she is very careful about hiring like-minded staff when it comes to customer service.

“When I take someone on, I really gauge during the interview process how this person will interact with customers and other staff members,” Brooke explains, “and a thorough screening process has served me well as I’ve retained some associates from when I originally opened.”

This is no mean feat in today’s fast-changing competitive world, but Brooke is every bit as loyal to her staff as they are to her. She brings as many staff as she can to professional development seminars and conventions that delve into the latest technology in hair styling techniques and practices. Obviously, seeing that she is willing to invest in them motivates Brooke’s staff to remain loyal – a precious trait in today’s itinerant labour market.

She is always keeping her business fresh, offering differing specials each week, and providing convenient hours that accommodate the schedules of her clients. One idea in particular that stands out is keeping individual files on each client and sending personalized Christmas cards out that relay a seasonal thank you and contains a discount coupon for the next visit.
Despite a very busy work week, Brooke still finds time to offer fundraising efforts to the Big Sisters Foundation and hopes down the road to provide mentorship to other budding entrepreneurs who seek her advice. She is resolute about striking a balance between a business life and a social one.

“My life, my future and many of my goals revolve around this business. I have big expectations on where it will take me and the impact Strands can have on the local economy, creating employment opportunities and giving residents the chance to spend locally on a service they otherwise may have to go out of town for.”

Using ”earth friendly” products and concentrating on individual customer care, Brooke and her staff are not only hair today, but will be there tomorrow and many years to come. At the root of it all, Strands Hair Trends upward!

Specializing in Solar Thermal Hot Water heating systems that assist in thermal (hydronic) floor heating systems, heating pools, and domestic hot water systems, as well as in commercial and residential hot water heating, Emilio is an experienced Sales/Program/Project Manager/Mould Maker and designer by trade with decades of hands on experience. He has a keen vision and just the right combination of apparatus to meet the needs of each individual household, while providing the customer with the best competitive market valued price.

EZ Solar Solutions is also a certified registered distributor for North American Solar Solutions in the London Middlesex/Elgin County/Lambton County/Michigan area.

Hailing from London, Ontario originally, Emilio moved to the Lambton County/Camlachie area in 1990 and has an impressive resume in the manufacturing and home improvements arena as well as his experience in Sales/Program Management mentioned previously. Emilio decided a few years ago to “Ride the Green Wave” and turn his clients eyes in the direction of relying less on fossil fuels by marketing energy solutions that are more environmentally friendly for future needs. He applies the same philosophy to another added aspect of his business growth – Home Improvement.

Realizing he had plenty of skills to be successful in self-employment, Emilio went the Sarnia Business Development Corporation (SBDC) route and soon undertook major projects in London and Aylmer that applied his SDHW (Solar Domestic Hot Water) skill set to an existing apartment complex, along with collaborating in a 10Kw PV (photovoltaic) installation tied to the grid.

His marketing plan includes networking through the Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce, running a website (www.ezsolarsolutions.ca) manning a booth at regional home shows as well as placing an ad in daily news sheets that appear in local restaurants and other alternative venues. He will be attending the Green Show on Sept. 15th, 2012 at the Lambton Inn, and also the Elgin County Plowing Match on Sept. 8, 2012 and Brigden Fair in Oct. 2012, along with other possible upcoming trade shows in 2012.

Emilio’s considerable skill set of course has sped up his success as an entrepreneur, but he still advises those just starting self-employment to contemplate the following:

• Is there are a market for your product/service?
• What competition exists in the marketplace and what is your competitive advantage?
• Stay upbeat, and the tougher it gets, the tougher you need to become to succeed…don’t give up!
• Always look for ways to improve – especially follow up after losing a sale to learn what you can do better next time, and what new avenues need to be considered.
• Don’t go too big, too fast.
• Dig in to the feared unknown…that’s how you learn your market and were you need to step up to be realized. You will feel relief once you have acknowledged the “what if factor”!
• Network with your competition, they can in turn be your friends in other avenues…keep an open mind…!!
• Just remember that you are the reason you wish to succeed and believe in your ventures, and that there will always be that “AWESOME DAY” that follows the any “what if days”, to make it all worthwhile!

“The SBDC was a great help to me,” Emilio says, “and I have already recommended their services to a few people.”

Now that he is well established in his Solar Hot Water services and expanding his home improvement services, Emilio is sure to maintain his own competitive advantage and mentions “I’m always willing to help out others in the self- employment game.”

With the dedication he exhibits to his customers and his dedication to fairness, Emilio is a valuable resource for Solar Heating / Home Improvement requirements.