Connecting with the Outside World

Two thoughts for this post:

1. I saw a discussion this morning (on the Today Show - I keep it on in the background during the morning) with a group called Ladies Who Launch. Apparently the idea is to bring together women entrepreneurs (and wanna-be entreprenuers) to help one another through the process. They have an introductory workshop in cities around the country (for $250) and after that it looks like you can attend monthly meetings, access their network, etc. On the one hand it looks like a great way to connect with local entreprenuers which is something I'm constantly trying to do. On the other though, I'm not sure I necessarily agree with all of what the group says with regards to the fact that women starting up businesses don't necessarily think "business plan" and shouldn't be forced into that mold. Perhaps I'm not reading what they're saying correctly, but I do believe that every business - if you want to make it a real business - does need a business plan and set of financials that are constantly evolving as your business grows (says the gal who desperately needs to update her business plan). But then again perhaps I was just brainwashed by business school. I'm not yet ready to put down $250 for the experience but I'll let you know if I do and what I think of it. If you're interested in checking it our for yourself you can find out more here: http://www.ladieswholaunch.com/

2. I had my first meeting with my new PR team yesterday. In an effort to get the word out about the company/product to a national audience I've hired them to help me with the process. It's a little frightening to put down so much money but I know it's something that will be good for us (assuming it works). The PR team seems to think that my product is an easy placement for a range of print/tv and that perhaps the bigger problem is can I keep up with potential demand since everything is handmade. Hiring staff...that's the next problem to tackle.