Greetings,
Wednesday morning the buzz on local TV, radio and in the newspaper was about IKEA opening its doors in Orlando. The media reported that hundreds of people were camped outside the store waiting to step inside the doors, win “free” stuff, and be a part of history. The highways were jammed at 5:30 a.m. Can you believe it?
Most of you will say so what? It is yet another store opening in the city of Orlando. The “so what” is the reaction to the store location. It is situated next to the Millenia Mall which is the most prestigious shopping mall in our area. The media has been scratching their heads and talking about the image of IKEA and the mall—reference has been made to the likes of oil and water.
IKEA is a “you buy it, take it home and put it together” furniture store along with a million other household items, and is labeled as the place for the “common man”. Millenia Mall, on the other hand, has all the makings of New York or LA with the high end stores which grace the floor levels inside the mall.  The question is how will the two survive? Whose image will be enhanced and whose will suffer? Oh my, it sounds just like a soap opera doesn’t it?
As so it is with us, with whom we associate impacts our image and brand. Many people forget this important component of image, better known as “you are known by the company you keep”. The holiday season is perfect timing for this to come into play. There will be many holiday parties, gatherings, and events in which you will be present in many different peoples’ company. The people with whom you associate represent you and reflect your image and brand.
What is your opinion on the subject?
Have a great weekend!
Nyda
 

Greetings!

Is not the cool weather wonderful that we are enjoying in Florida? We have experienced mornings of 53 degrees heating up to the low 70’s during the day. So this is jacket and sweater weather for us Floridians.

However, I have observed during the past several days that people forget these garments, while we do not use them often, are part of our wardrobe none the less. I have seen everything from jacket colors that do not match their outfits, jackets that should have been put in the Goodwill box some time ago, to jackets that the sleeves are at least three inches too short.

It is a good thing that jackets do not peek out of our closets too often!

What have been your observations?

Have a great weekend and enjoy the weather!

Nyda

Greetings!  Here it comes…racing at us…the holiday season. The phrase brings visions of pumpkin pie, sugarplums, parties, and feasts with family and friends. It can also bring tired feet; too much turkey and dressing, hours spent shopping for the “perfect gift”, or loneliness and depression for some. Walmart announced today they are offering holiday sales prices three weeks earlier than the normal retailer kick off. Were we not just enjoying BBQ on the grill for summer? I have already received several “hold the date” invitations for November and December events. Oh my, the stress levels are rising!  

Stress will rise as we decide what to serve for Thanksgiving, which holiday parties to attend, what gifts to buy, and yes, who will need to put up with Aunt Susie again this year….where are my Tums? Let’s make a list (and check it twice) of techniques and strategies to help us manage the season. Please add to the list so we can all enjoy a delightful and maybe even a less stressful holiday season.  

• Learn to say “no” so you do not over commit yourself.  

• Tap into your natural creativity and create a hand-made gift.  

• Create realistic expectations–do not try and make this the “perfect” holiday (even Jimmy Stewart did not have the perfect holiday until the end).  

• Get a massage…better yet; go with your partner or a friend.  

• Laugh and do it often.  

• Enjoy something “fun” for a day. Sneak off to the beach, go to the ice skating rink (had to make sure I had something to offer for all of the different geographic locations of my readers).  

• Exercise, get enough rest, and eat healthy…only sample those wonderful and delicious desserts sparingly.  

• Create a new holiday tradition that builds connections among your family and friends.  

• Reflect on the deeper meaning and spirit of the holidays for you and your family.  

What does this approach to the holidays and lessening the stresses have to do with image and brand? The snapshot that you provide to others during your daily experiences does not take time off during the holidays. People really don’t want to hear about all of your “issues” and seeing you stressed out doesn’t flatter you.  So, be as “brilliant” as the twinkling lights are and your image will continue to shine!  

Happy Beginning of the 2007 Holiday Season to everyone!     

Nyda     

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