Revenue versus payroll, is a real balancing act. A stingy payroll budget will send your company into a tail spin. 80% of businesses shut down because of poor management and this includes poor decisions regarding payroll.

A plan to increase revenue starts with paying the best to get the job done. If you are responding to this statement with,”I cant afford to pay that much”, your company is already in a tail spin.

Locating the right candidate for the job is like opening Pandora’s Box, paying the right man or woman for the job is the easy part. In this situation putting the cart before the horse is not a negative, it must be done if you plan to increase your revenue.

If you are one of the lucky ones and already have a gem of an employee who is obviously taking an interest in your company, get your checkbook out and write in the memo,”money well spent”. I realize this advise isn’t easy to swallow but as they say, the good stuff isn’t easy.

In my next blog, I will discuss how to squeeze extra money out of your company to make the payroll increase happen.

 

Author Tuley

Tuley@pinklabelcorsets.com

Pink Label Fashion

http://www.pinklabelfashion.com

 

 

 

 

Posted: November 1st, 2009 under News.
Comments: none

Having grown up in the Michigan and then moving around the country I’ve noticed a few things about fashion in the United States.  Before the Internet and the World Wide Web fashion seemed to always start on the outsides and work their way to the middle.  More specifically there was East Coast fashion and West Coast fashion and sometime a few years after it had gone out of style, it arrived in the Midwest.  I remember in the early 80s taking a trip to Florida and I might have been accused of wearing an authentic retro outfit.  I’m afraid it was just a hand-me-down from my older brother’s wardrobe from last year.

 

Now however, we see a great re-emergence of the Midwest keeping up with trends and even starting a few of our own.  How long ago was it that Marshall Mathers reminded folks that Detroit did have street cred? And a kid who grew up on Michigan apple orchard could set the standard for what is cool (tip of the hat to Robert Ritchie).  And we don’t even need to mention the Mississippi girl who was raised in Milwaukee and grew to be one of the most powerful talk show hosts of our time.

 

All these things though are a reminder to those on the coasts.  We’ve been around for a real long time.  Motown, the Grand Ole’ Opry, Memphis, Lubbock, Chicago, and a long list of Midwest achievements are how we directed society to decide what is cool.  The Midwest is not all about farmland, cows and overall jeans.  It’s even more then the auto industry, meatpacking plants and coal.  The Midwest is people who work hard and play hard. 

 

While the country moved to either side of the nation, the Midwest maintained its solid place in its own style.  Where else could you purchase a 3 story Victorian home with 5 bedrooms and three baths for under a half million dollars?  The Midwest is home to what is America and American Fashion is here.

 

A few blogs ago I mentioned the non-employer and the small business owners of America.  In the fashion industry, these folks work hard to get seen in New York or LA.  It think its time to remind everyone that maybe New York and LA need to start looking to be seen in Chicago, Detroit, Milwaukee and Memphis.

Thank you for reading,

Sturty The Male Opinionator

http://www.pinklabelcorsets.com

Posted: May 17th, 2009 under News.
Comments: none

According to the US Census Bureau, in 2004 there were over 5 million businesses with fewer than 20 employees, over two million with fewer than 5 employees.  That’s a pretty impressive number for small businesses.  Hard working entrepreneurs working to ensure they make payroll as well as make a profit themselves at the end of the day.

 

One of the fastest growing sectors of business, however, is the non-employer; those stalwart individuals who are working by themselves, either as a self-contractor, or a self-employed businessperson filing 1099s every year. Working hard to ensure they have a paycheck for themselves and can account for every penny spent on their business.  They span the service, construction, agriculture and medical industries and, as almost always has been, the fashion industry.

 

Small business owners and the self-employed work long hours, sacrificing significantly to maintain their positions.  Overtime and holiday pay aren’t in the vocabulary of these individuals.  And if you sit down and have a discussion with any of these individuals you’ll either discuss the weather or more likely how their business is doing.  It’s a subject that is always on their mind. 

 

In the fashion industry, specifically, you’ll find designers, seamstresses and seamsters, models, photographers and a cadre of event planners, freelance writers and freelance marketers; each one learning the profession of the other to spread the word about their business.With the advent of Ebay, Etsy, Yahoo Shops, Artfire, Model Mayhem, DeviantArt and hundreds of other websites these folks are finally being seen.  It’s time, now, for them to start being recognized as the driving force behind the fashion industry.

 

While we would all love to shop for the latest Giorgio Armani, it is important to remember that he too started out as an assistant designer for Nino Cerruti.  The top fashion designers worked hard and exploded into the world with determination, drive and creativity but they did not all start out working in the fashion houses of Europe. They might have enjoyed the opportunity of the selected few like Jay McCarroll, Chloe Dao, Jeffrey Sebelia, Christian Siriano and Leanne Marshall or they may have laid out a large amount of cash for an opportunity to be seen on runway during one of the numerous fashion weeks, be it New York, Detroit, Chicago, or LA.  The thing is they now appear in fashion shows located in Kalamzoo, Madison, and Akron.

 

Support these fabulous folks, these small business owners and non-employers, working in the small boutiques and basement shops all around our country making our country beautiful.

Thank you for reading,

Sturty The Male Opinionator

http://www.pinklabelcorsets.com

Posted: March 28th, 2009 under News.
Comments: none

Everyone seems to be talking about it.  Realtors, Buyers, Accountants, and Economists are all talking about where we are and where we’re going and it seems a pretty consistent theme on the news.  How does that affect our fashion and what we wear. 

 

I guess you could compare our fashion with the movie theater escapism they always talk about.  The second hand store and the discount clothing store are looking better and better.  In addition to that, we’re trying to save the almighty dollar or at least make it stretch as far as possible.

 

Now lets look at woman’s fashion.  Beyond going to the club or an evening on the town, imagine having to fork out the dough for a prom dress, bridesmaid dress, or evening gown.  Now that can send shivers to any purse, wallet or money clip.  The price of evening gowns, prom dresses, and bridesmaid dresses… ouch!  Surely it would hurt a $250 outfit budget to spend $200 of it on a corset… even if you were going to use it multiple times.

 

I remember when Tuley first mentioned making corsets and my first thought was, “Wow, $300 a pop and if we sell two or three a week we could be doing okay.” But she came back at me and said, “No, I want something affordable, efficient to make, and something that looks great with out skimping on quality.”  Okay, fair enough.  Now this was back in 2001 and things weren’t near as grim as they are now in our economy.

 

So here we are in 2009 and I’m thinking it was a good thing she made that call back then.  I get to see how a customized corset at an affordable price is going to survive in times like this.  Today Pink Label Corsets is the top fetish fashion club-wear designer in the entire mid-west. [Thank you for helping the PLC Designers get there and stay there, by the way]

 

Here’s where the movie theater escapism comes in.  I’m talking about having spring colors, flowing skirts bouncing on a petticoat, and bare shoulders.  The winter is over and we have the chance to really bring out what the summer will soon bring us.  An affordable, comfortable, corset that’s just right to reduce a little of the winter we’ve put on our waist.  It’s better then seeing your first spring robin sing.  It’s all about feeling sexy and slim in the moment without calling the loan company.

 

Brighten your colors, brighten your spirit and look good doing it.

 

Thank you for reading,

Sturty The Male Opinionator

http://www.pinklabelcorsets.com

Posted: March 20th, 2009 under News.
Comments: none

It’s a pretty typical situation and many examples exist where the boyfriend, husband or partner is placed with the every frightening instant when he’s asked, “Do I look okay in this?”  Sweat starts to bead on the brow and heart rate increases to dangerous proportions.  It’s the question that brings fear to the heart.  Facing and enemy in battle, spinning out on the ice, or receiving a foreclosure notice pale in comparison to the very minute.  It’s a make or break moment; the next few words can make your evening soar or cause it to spiral down in horrific flames.

 

Whether it’s the blouse and slacks or the basic black dress, we have to be prepared to face the question.  Thankfully there are real men who can answer the question.  And no, they are not all flaming “fashionistas” speaking in lilting tones and limp wrists. They don’t have million dollar bank accounts and wear $5000 suits. They mustn’t always live in the big city, and they occasionally drive pickup trucks.

 

Back to our question, “Do I look okay in this?”  The question, while frightening, is really a simple one.  The woman is not asking the man to do an on the spot mini-makeover with her wardrobe.  What she is hoping for is honesty, and men would love to give her that.  The problem is like deciding between a Minneola, a Tangelo, and Satsuma; all the guy can do is blink. There is a pretty simple reason men’s fashion hasn’t changed much beyond the width and shape of the necktie. We’d be happy to tell you the miniskirt isn’t good for the restaurant we’re going to and we’d even tell you that sweat pants are not the best choice to the show we’re going to see.

 

We, too, want you to look your best.  We really do.  We seen you in several of your outfits and liked them.  To choose between them is not easy. So as a guy and as one of the lucky few that can make an amateurish attempt at answering the question, I’m going to give my pearls of wisdom.

 

1)     What she wore last week may not look good this week.

2)     If she feels you honestly believe she is pretty in those clothes she will feel better.

3)     Its okay to say you prefer one to the other once and a while. Just be honest.

4)     Don’t bother with “whatever you’d like to wear;” she asked you for your opinion, give it to her.

5)     Glance at the color sample wall when you pass one at your local paint center it helps.

6)     Pay attention, it doesn’t mean you have to give up your life, just a few moments.

 

Thank you for reading,

Sturty The Male Opinionator

 

Posted: March 14th, 2009 under News.
Comments: none

In a workplace culture of women and fashion, occasionally the need for a male’s opinion is needed.   I’m not the business owner or the lead anything.  I set grommets, I help insert boning, and I help package and ship.  I don’t design; I don’t sew (although I can sew a straight line) and I don’t model. I am the Male Opinionator of Pink Label Corsets.

 

When Tuley began Pink Label Corsets so long ago I was off working the 9 to 5, occasionally popping in to see the amazing things happening in the shop.  And then one day I was needed and it all went from there. 

 

I hope to be adding my opinions here with Tuley  and together we’ll both be off to an exciting change of pace for the PLC Blog.

 

Thank you for reading,

Sturty The Male Opinionator

Posted: March 14th, 2009 under News.
Comments: none

Posted: November 6th, 2008 under News.
Comments: none

 

Fresno, CA – Shopping, wine, hors d’oeuvres, music, photographers…. That is just a glimpse inside what will be going on at the Fashion Style Lounge in the Tower presented by Private Plane Originals on Thursday night, November 13th, 2008 from 6pm to 10pm. This exclusive event takes place at the offices of EKO Marketing & Design / PC Solutions, next to
Vini Vedi Vici Restaurant.

Not a fashion show, not a trade show, but a social gathering in which local fashion designers and beauty gurus can get together, showcase their work, and enjoy a glass of wine. Hosted by Nicole Giordano, local personality, the Fashion Style Lounge will feature exclusive products and services that are not found in main street retailers.

After being asked to participate at the Hollywood Style Lounge in Beverly Hills, Private Plane Originals’ hat designer, Falina Marihart, decided that Fresno needed to have its own style lounge, “Fashion Style Lounge in the Tower.” Fresno may not be L.A.; however you can see the latest in fashion and accessory designs from indie designers. She wanted a private party that included only the hottest, most fashionable and influential people in attendance.

The list of designers is extremely exclusive and begins with Private Plane Originals, a new designer line of women’s hats perfect for club wear and making any outfit sexy trendy. Pink Label Corsets, an independent designer out of Michigan, will display custom made corsets and other fashionable custom attire. Divinity Boutique from Hanford will feature A-list designers, like Lexy Charms and Yvette Mandell.

ShangLee East & West Collaboration introduces Eastern fashion designs into Western markets. Simdog Apparel will embody the high-end tees and tanks segment with sales benefiting the Jeffrey Simonian Memorial Scholarship Foundation at Clovis High School. Nichole Angelina Grazioli, International Apparel Design, uses fine, retro-vintage and new
fabrics to showcase a form of wearable, modern art.

Fashion is not complete without accessories. Accessory lines will include Buckles by Nicco Gio. These buckles are hand-made, each one like no other, and decorated with various vintage items to give each buckle a unique theme and name and retail for $90 each. Dalita Moda will showcase handmade accessories that fit any girl’s style, whether girly or punk. The bracelets and accessories are designed using the finest crystals and no two are exactly alike. Make Pie Not War will also attend featuring handmade jewelry, but with a focus on vintage style. Make Pie Not War designs necklaces and earrings and creates custom pieces.

Additional participants at Fashion Style Lounge in the Tower include Suzi Q Cosmetics. Suzi Picaso, founder and CEO, will be showcasing new products like Stunners eye dust and talk about her recent events in Hollywood; Pre-Emmy parties and upcoming 2008 Star Music Awards and the 2008 American Music Awards. Hair by Yo - Yahira Chacon, will also feature the latest in hairstyle fashions creating on the spot and making guest look great. Cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Yoho will feature his new skincare line, Skincare by Dr. Yoho and each guest will received a copy
of his booklet, “A New Body in One Day.” Published author, Anna Shonk will be featuring her book “The Almond Man.” Chews 4 Health, a new, natural and chewable dietary supplement will also be featured.

Local artist, Stephanie Pearl contemporary art collection will be on display and DJ Johnny Q (J Catch) will be mixing the music to set the tone of the event. We are keeping all invited participants to the very upper echelon of unique products and services.

Not only are the vendors exclusive, the guests are exclusive. You must
receive a personal invitation to enter the Fashion Style Lounge. It’s
all about who you know: the designer, the DJ, or Suzi Q herself, but no matter what, only guests with their names on the list will be allowed to experience Fashion Style Lounge in the Tower. Guests will be escorted inside and introduced to the various designers. Guests will have the opportunity to buy some of newest and hottest fashion items while socializing and enjoying music and wine. Guests will also have back door access to Vini Vedi Vici’s patio so they can relax outside if they wish.

Do you want to be a guest at Fashion Style Lounge in the Tower? For more information call 559-487-1091, ask for Falina.

http://www.privateplaneoriginals.com/

http://www.pinklabelcorsets.com/

http://www.divinityboutique.net/

http://www.yvettemandell.com/

www.myspace.com/lexycharms

www.myspace.com/i_love_isak

http://www.shopsimdog.com/

http://www.graziolin.com/

http://www.dalitamoda.com/

www.myspace.com/makepiejewelry

http://www.suziqcosmetics.com/

http://www.dryoho.com/

www.myspace.com/katilina123

Posted: October 25th, 2008 under News.
Comments: none

The debate, hmm, alright lets do this.

Obama was quick coming out of the starting gates with his fast facts about economics and the crisis herein. Not even 1/3 rd of the way into my popcorn I’m already impressed. Obama was definitely looking for side stage Q’s when it came to foreign policy.

The feeling I had at this point, was measurable to not getting a toy in my happy meal. I was hoping Obama would maintain the steady stature he expressed on the subject of economics. He made one good point when he raised the question in everyone’s mind about the war strengthening al-Qaeda and Taleban. Something to think about.

McCain muddles through the topic of economics and couldn’t help but show the viewers his lack of interest on the subject. He ran through his weak platform for medical coverage so fast I felt like I had been assaulted.

McCain explained, he wants to give families a 5 k refund in which they could spend on whatever insurance they wanted.

McCain wants families to have a choice in which crooked insurance company we want to give our money to.

At this point the popcorn is pushed aside and I’m standing, blinking at the TV. Choices? I’m sorry what were my options again?

This is McCain’s attempt to keep medical coverage from being “socialized” Really, our schools are socialized and its working out just fine, as well as for our socialized fire department! It continues, $300bn in tax cuts to some of the wealthiest corporations and individuals in the country? What, really?
Moving on, he slammed it out of the park when it came to his neoconservative approach to Foreign policy.

I’m glad someone knows what is going on over there. Obama has some catching up to do in that area.

Lastly, the two hopefuls had my head moving back and forth like I was watching a tennis match, on the subject of

preconditions vs no preconditions regarding a face to face with foreign adversaries.
Obama prefers to jump right in and put everything on the table. McCain maintains that sitting across the table from someone who makes comments about wiping a country off a map would legitimize their opinion. So I take it then, in order for our commander and chief to sit with someone and talk about progress, they must first have a good attitude putting all hostile thoughts of harming their neighbor behind them. In other words, forget about what they were pissed off about to begin with, therefore, leaving no reason to have the meeting in first place. Hey that’s one way to get things done; Watching my dog chase his tale.

Was there a winner of this most anticipated debate? According to the McCain Camp, he won the debate and of course

Obama was also victorious according to the experts. Lets hope it doesn’t look like this in November.

author: Tuley

Posted: September 28th, 2008 under News.
Comments: none

Tuley shakes hands with LA Designer Falina Marihart, CEO Private Plane Originals. Private Plane Originals, LLC is a dba of EKO Marketing & Design, LLC. Pink Label Corsets, aka; Pink Label Fashions, and Private Plane Originals are collaborating on design ideas. See the press release on FOX.. http://www.communitycorrespondent.com/kmph/story.php?id=33393

I am excited about the upcoming design collaboration with Private Plane Originals. When designers come together things happen. Pink Label Fashion is already diving into New York, and now LA.  This offers a whole new playground and great new opportunities.

Tuley

New Hat Collection Debut – Success in Los Angeles!!

CALIFORNIA - September 23, 2008: Private Plane Originals new diva hat collection made its debut at the HOLLYWOOD STYLE LOUNGE in Beverly Hills on Thursday, September 18th. The first of six designer hats from Private Plane Originals’ premium hat line is now available. Stylist, fashion editors, and celebs were WOWed at the collection that was created just this year.

Innovator and fashion designer, Falina Marihart, introduced her hat line to make a statement. The chic and ultra hip hats were created as a perfect accessory to add to any outfit – day or night. The sleek, black satin fabric can finish the look created for the clubs, or to dress up that hip tee and favorite pair of jeans. Each hat has its own personality, inspired by classic looks, biker enthusiast, and favorite weekend wear.

With gradual release of new hats throughout the year, Private Plane Originals will feature their classic and edgy styles in more colors and fabrics. Trendsetters, celebs and the like will be the first to grab the new line that is made in America, yet doesn’t break the budget retailing for $59 to $109 per hat. In addition each hat comes with its own black satin draw string bag for travel and safe keeping.

Suzi Picaso, CEO and founder of Suzi Q Cosmetics, has already paired her favorite hat with her bold makeup line when she participated in the First Annual Univision “Tecate Premios Deportes” Awards Celebrating Hispanic Athletic Accomplishments in Los Angeles this summer.

The hat line also captured the attention of fashion designer, Tuley of Pink Label Corsets, in Michigan. The hats will be available later this year and match Pink Label Corsets custom fashion lineup.

Video production, photo shoots, and websites have already been produced to promote the new line. In addition, retailers and boutiques that carry Private Plane Originals will benefit from the company’s in-house marketing and design team for advertising support.

So – Private Plane Originals asks – will you be the lucky one to carry this fall’s hottest new accessory or will you be the first one noticed in the crowd? Private Plane Originals says “YES!” For more information on local representation call 800-981-0622. Check out www.privateplaneoriginals.com or www.myspace.com/privateplane.

Private Plane Originals, LLC is a dba of EKO Marketing & Design, LLC
Contact: Falina Marihart 559.487.1091 or 800-981-0622 Fax: 559.487.1094 falina@ekomarketing.com

Posted: September 24th, 2008 under In the Press, News.
Comments: none