There are so many places to shop and so many different styles of bras it can be overwhelming deciding what to buy that will look best and be comfortable at the same time. This article will share some of the different styles and what we have found looks best on most women when being photographed. So if you are looking for the right bra we’re here to help you find what suits you best!
We decided to cover the four top styles that flatter most women’s figures so here you are!
Demi: Covers lower ¾ of the breasts and great for pushing up and creating cleavage.
They may be padded or unlined and sheer, and covered with pretty lace. (My Favorite)
Pushup: Heavily padded to push up breasts and create a fuller appearance.
A perfect fit is critical so breasts are pushed up not hidden in the padding.
Full Coverage: Great for full bodied, bustier women who need a bit more support.
They naturally shape while providing the extra support but can still look super sexy!
Balconette: Covers only the lower half of the breast and cups are usually lined.
This bra usually has a fairly straight cut across the breasts with wide set straps.
There are so many different bras and makers out there to choose from that it’s important to make sure you are buying the correct size. Did you know over 90% of women are wearing the wrong size bra? If you have never been fitted by a professional, we recommend it highly! Going someplace like Zoe’s where they will do a private measuring for you can change the way you look at bra shopping. My husband (brave man!) went there a few years ago and bought me a gift certificate that included a free fitting as a Christmas present. As with most other women, I found out I had been wearing the wrong size bra for years! They were also awesome about explaining to me the different styles of bras and helping me pick out what best suited my figure best.
Let me know what your favorite brand and bra style is and if you’ve ever been professionally fitted! You can check out our Bra Calculator and if you do, please leave us feedback – it’s anonymous but helps us ensure everything is working as it should!
Next time I will talk about the other half of your lingerie wardrobe – Panties!
If you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about, please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.
If you have dreamed of having a photo-shoot that is all about you, call me to set up a complimentary consultation. You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And, as you now know, Gift Certificates are available.
If you’ve ever flown on a plane you’re familiar with the standard process before the plane takes off. The flight attendant was talking us through our pre-flight safety demonstration and as usual, I listened with little enthusiasm to the same litany of “exits here, here and here…” as well as the instructions for putting on oxygen masks in case of an emergency… “If you are traveling with a child or someone who requires assistance, secure your mask on first, and then assist the other person.” It wasn’t until much later that I realized there was a deeper message hiding in these words for me.
Life can be hectic most days and downright challenging others. Trying to keep up with the daily schedules of work, kids, pets, housework, running to and from kid’s events, and a list of other responsibilities can leave us with little to no time dedicated to ourselves. As wife, mother, boss or worker, we’re accustomed to putting ourselves last on the list.
As a single mom raising three children, there was never enough time while the kids were growing up. I usually had to have two of them at events in the opposite direction at the same time or multiple homework meltdowns for things I never even studied in school! Now as a grandmother and business owner I sometimes feel like I have even less time. In our daily lives, just like when applying an oxygen mask on a plane, there are times we need to think of ourselves first. Keeping ourselves energized and healthy is critical if we are going to be able to do all the other things we have on our lists! Now this doesn’t mean ignoring our family and job, it means making time for ourselves so we are able to be there physically and emotionally strong for whatever life throws our way.
Here are a few things you can do to get back to a stronger, re-energized you.
Take a long, hot bath or shower to relax your tired muscles and joints.
Replace strenuous exercise with something like yoga, a day or two a week. Combine exercise and relaxation techniques to achieve both physical and emotional balance.
Get outside and spend some time in nature. Feel the ground under your feet and focus on the sights and sounds around you. Enjoying your environment can give you time to replenish your energy. Talking walks with family or a close friend can give you time away from technology to reconnect.
Find ways to express yourself creatively. It could be a night painting at a local winery, singing karaoke or learning how to belly dance.It’s hard to stress and over-think things when you’re immersed in something fun and expressive!
Focus on your successes! Make a note of all the things you’ve done well, and give yourself permission to be proud of what you have accomplished instead of dissatisfied with what you haven’t done. Tomorrow is another opportunity to add to those accomplishments!
Make that bucket list! Replace your regrets with dreams. When you start thinking about what you should have done, stop; change your focus to what you plan to do now. It’s much more empowering and will give you the confidence to take on the next thing on your list!
Set aside a day just for you. It may seem like a monumental task to carve out a whole day for you, but it’s worth it. Work with family or friends to watch the kids, maybe even set up a trade with another mom who is also in need of some time for herself and trade babysitting for a day. Find something you want to do that will rejuvenate you, boost your confidence and leave you feeling great about yourself. Whether that means participating in a triathlon, going to the spa, or being made to feel like a princess for a day getting your hair and makeup done and your photo taken, you deserve it!
So make sure you are taking some time for yourself as we get ready for the crazy holiday season. Stay healthy, be happy, and share lots of love!
If you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about, please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.
If you have dreamed of having a photo-shoot that is all about you, call me to set up a complimentary consultation. You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And, as you now know, Gift Certificates are available.
Welcome to our Celebrating Local Women in Business blog! We are focusing on local Connecticut businesses owned and run by women. The blogs will give you a chance to learn about the women who own these businesses, why they chose the work they do, what drove them to transform that passion into their own business and how their business has a positive impact on others. In this blog we’re Celebrating Local Women in Business featuring Marilyn Riel.
I’ve been publishing articles about women in business over the last few months and was reminded the other day that as a woman who owns my business, I should be including an article about myself as well. So here it is; my story and the answers to a few of the questions I’ve been asked about why I do what I do!
Name: Marilyn Riel
Business Name and Address: Menagerie Photography, Lisbon, CT
“I believe empowering women to see their
individual beauty is key to their self-confidence.”
Let me start by introducing myself to those of you who don’t know me yet. I’m 50+ years old and owner and lead photographer at Menagerie Photography Studio in Lisbon, CT. I love the work I do now but it wasn’t always that way. I was married young, had three children, got divorced, remarried six years ago and have two beautiful granddaughters.
It took a long time to figure out what I wanted to be when I grew up but I finally got here!
When I tell people that my studio is exclusively women’s portraiture, often they don’t understand why weddings, engagements and babies aren’t part of the services I provide. Simply put, I have done various types of photography but this is what I love to do. Having come from a past that had me feeling less than confident or empowered, focusing the business at my studio on women’s portraiture is important to me.
I believe empowering women to see their individual beauty is key to their self-confidence. Many of the women who wanted to come in to the studio had a list of excuses that they would tell me. “I’m shy… but I don’t know if this is the right gift for my significant other… well, I need to lose weight or get in shape first…”
What it all came down to was a fear they would not be seen as beautiful.
The thing they were missing was that they were already beautiful – no matter what shape or size, they just needed to see themselves as I saw them through my lens. I wanted them to know that it’s not just about having beautiful pictures at the end of your session; it’s also about how you feel during and after the shoot. Most women leave with an overall good feeling about themselves, not just that they have great pictures but that they have a great time and they’re more confident than ever.
This is why I shoot exclusively women’s portraiture.
I am kept busy with photo sessions for all types of images including fashion/editorial, pinup/fantasy, boudoir/glamour, maternity and business headshots as well as writing the blogs for my business. While talking about the Women in Business blogs at an event I was asked how much I charge to do the articles – taking photos, posting to our web page with links to their businesses and social media as well as digital copies of the images used in the blogs. I told them I do it for free. Their response was “well for now, you could make good money doing that…”
Why would you give away something when you can sell it?
There are many businesses and individuals who share of themselves, their time, their skills or their money to make things better for others. Giving back to their communities is something they do for themselves, not for monetary gain but to feel they may make a small difference by their actions. Many of the women I have recently featured in my blogs donate their time and services to improve their communities and help others at no cost. I share their stories to spread the word about their businesses, providing my services and time at no cost to them.
I believe in the philosophy “pass it on and it comes back to you”.
Recently I was asked why we have photography campaigns twice a year with no session fee and a free image. It’s pretty simple really. There are women out there who would love to experience a professional photo shoot but can’t afford it. Women who want to see themselves as confident and beautiful. This gives a chance to have that experience without the cost. They get to choose one of their pictures to remember the fun they had! After their session, there is no obligation to purchase any other images. (They can if they want to but it is not required)
The stories I have received in women’s campaign entries have made me realize how important it is to make time in my business to give more women a session that can empower them and help build their confidence.
I can’t give all my sessions away or I would go out of business. I can offer to wave the session fee for a few women during these campaigns. When I have the services of a hair and makeup artist donated this is include in a campaign as well. The expressions on women’s faces when they see images of themselves that show their individual beauty is wonderful. Feedback from the women who have participated in our events lets me know this is something I will continue to do in the future. An email I received two months after our first campaign last fall sums up the reason I continue to do this.
“Hi Marilyn!
I just wanted to email you and see how you have been doing? …. I don’t remember if I told you… I like how the photos came out and I am so very proud of them. Also I wanted to let you know that since I have seen you, my confidence has risen. I absolutely love that we had a chance to meet. You are definitely an inspiration. “
I have had such wonderful feedback from the women who have participated. I hope, at least in some small way, that I have been able to give them a little more confidence. That their photo shoot has left them feeling more empowered and just overall happier as the amazing women they are.
Our studio guide cover girls normally come from the women who participate in these campaigns. All the women sign model releases authorizing us to use their images. This allows us to share their experience so you can see what fun they had and their beautiful pictures. I have had the privilege of meeting over a dozen amazing women through the various campaigns so far.
We just closed entries for our third campaign and I look forward to sharing images and stories from their sessions next month.
I hope this has helped you to get to know me a little better and that when you are ready to talk about getting your photo taken, you’ll give me a call. You’ll come in for some coffee or tea and we can talk about creating an experience that you’ll love with beautiful pictures you can take home and share.
Would you like to be featured in our Celebrating Local Women in Business blog? Please go to our Contact Us page at MarilynRiel.com and tell me more about you and your business!
Do you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about? Please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.
If you have dreamed of having a photo-shoot that is all about you, call me to set up a complimentary consultation. You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And remember, Gift Certificates are always available.
Welcome to our Celebrating Local Women in Business blog! We are focusing on local Connecticut businesses owned and run by women. The blogs will give you a chance to learn about the women who own these businesses, why they chose the work they do, what drove them to transform that passion into their own business and how their business has a positive impact on others.
Today I’m introducing you to Stephanie Ortiz who owns and operates The Fancy Fluke Fishing Co. in Stratford, Connecticut. Stephanie’s goal is to create a strong, safe community for women to experience the sport of fishing and on a deeper level the lifestyle. Fancy Fluke Fishing Co. creates and sells customized tackle and tackle inspired accessories for girls and women who love to fish! They currently have a Women’s Only Fluke Tournament scheduled for Summer 2017 at Burrs Marina in New London and have another in the works in Milford, CT. If you think that is all Stephanie has planned you haven’t seen her energy, enthusiasm and dedication to her company and the women she hopes to inspire. She also plans to offer teaching clinics for women and children interested in learning the “How-To” of angling in Connecticut and is in the process of creating a program of Girls Only Charters. So read on to hear Stephanie’s story about how she got started and how she wants to share this with others.
” I found 6 amazing women who shared my vision and created a team… I am positive that those who see these women and get to know their lives will gain a new respect for the “Why” of fishing. In that way we will inspire other women to try our sport. We have opened up our lives to teach and include them. In that way we are empowering female anglers by giving them the guidance they need to excel and enjoy themselves on the water.”
“The Fancy Fluke literally started as a Fluke. I had made some glamorous fishing rigs for myself for fishing trip off of Block Island. One of the reasons I really got into angling was for the food! I am extremely passionate about Ocean to Table cooking and Fluke are some of the best eating around! Any opportunity I have to catch Fluke I try my best to fish hard and put dinner on the table. That particular trip was a SLAMMER! We limited out in under two hours all BIG FLUKE 20-29” and all on my Fancy Fluke Rigs. I knew if I could hit it out of the park fluking Block I had a great rig in my hands.
I knew my Fluke Rigs were my golden ticket into the world of Sport Fishing in Connecticut. I’m by no means the greatest angler but I fish often.. Some weeks everyday, other times for days at a time. Experience is king and I’ve gained quite a bit. This year alone I’ve caught Bluefin Tuna, White Marlin and Mako. I’ve also beat my personal best Fluke and Bluefish. I may not score on every species, but if you want a lady who can fight a shark from start to finish, I’m your woman. I didn’t stop there…
My Fluke Rigs had a great summer with tons of positive feedback from anglers all over the state. Our Rigs snagged not only Fluke, but Scup, Black Sea Bass, Striper and Blues.
Fancy Fluke Fishing Co. is dedicated to creating and selling customized tackle and tackle inspired accessories for girls and women who love to fish! All of our Fluke Rigs are made with the highest quality materials including Addya 4/0 Wide Gap Hooks, Berkley Big Game Monofilment 30lb and various hardware, bucktails, teasers and squid skirts from Buccaneer, Sea Striker and other fine tackle producers. Our Fluke Rigs are designed for jigging and drifting for Fluke and other bottom fishing. We test our products locally in Long Island Sound and deeper waters around Block Island. Our designs employ a large array of bead-work and specialty knots. Silver, semi-precious stones and genuine crystal are matched with tails and teasers to create a one of a kind piece you can use over and over again. All of our products are handmade in Stratford, Connecticut, USA.
We are currently available in stores at:
Diane’s Bait, Tackle & Charters in New London,CT
Fisherman’s Paradise in Milford, CT
Animal Artisans in Stratford,CT
Once I got my product in shops, I knew my next step was to create a strong, safe community for women to experience this sport and on a deeper level the lifestyle. I found 6 amazing women who shared my vision and created a team, namely Lauren Salvioli, Diane Womack, Kim Granite, Niki Webber, Captain Stephanie Griffith and Jennifer Zuppe. In my opinion these women are extremely inspiring and at the same time the best examples of excellence in angling in Connecticut. I am positive that those who see these women and get to know their lives will gain a new respect for the “Why” of fishing. In that way we will inspire other women to try our sport. We have opened up our lives to teach and include them. In that way we are empowering female angler by giving them the guidance they need to excel and enjoy themselves on the water.
We currently have a Women’s Only Fluke Tournament scheduled for Summer 2017 at Burrs Marina in New London with another in the works in Milford, CT. We plan to offer teaching clinics for women and children interested in learning the “How-To” of angling in Connecticut. I also am in the process of creating a program of Girls Only Charters, this is a great way for boats to link up with potential life-long patrons. We want to offer a charter experience that caters specifically to female anglers of all levels.
The other important piece to the Fancy Fluke puzzle is our site – TheFancyFluke.com. We provide content ranging from recipes, tips and tricks of the trade, photo gallery, shop and what I am most proud of, our Fishing Reports written by female fishermen. My hope is we become well known as a source for interesting and reliable information pertaining to the sport. At the same time, I know that we will inspire many women, men and their families by empowering them to explore with us a passion for this Salty Satisfying way of life.”
Stephanie’s love of fishing and desire to share her knowledge and passion has created an amazing company that not only hires women for her team but strives to spread the word that there is not anything you can’t do if you work hard. She promotes independence and self-sufficiency while honoring families and tradition.
To learn more about this amazing woman and her business:
The Fancy Fluke Fishing Co. Stratford, Connecticut
If you would like to be featured in one of our blogs, please go to our Contact Us page at MarilynRiel.com and tell me more about you and your business!
If you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about, please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.
If you have dreamed of having a photo-shoot that is all about you, call me to set up a complimentary consultation. You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And, as you now know, Gift Certificates are available.
Welcome to our Celebrating Local Women in Business blog! We are focusing on local Connecticut businesses owned and run by women. The blogs will give you a chance to learn about the women who own these businesses, why they chose the work they do, what drove them to transform that passion into their own business and how their business has a positive impact on others.
Today I’m introducing you to Jessica Odaynik who owns and operates jesslancephoto in Plainfield, CT. Jess has worked in a variety of photography styles and has chosen to focus her business around what she loves most – weddings. She has a style that reflects her personality and has a personality that makes you like her from the first time you meet her. Jess loves sharing these special moments with a couple and captures amazing images for them to cherish.
“I enjoy giving couples a chance to relive their wedding day. Everything goes by so fast and most of the time I show them moments they had missed. My goal is to make the photography process as simple and fun as possible.”
“Growing up I was the baby in my family, aka designated flower girl. I remember the wedding photographers always interrupting! The mother of the bride would be helping her daughter into her dress and the photographer would say okay, stop, hold it, great, now do that one more time….okay now from this side, look at me… smile! Same thing during the first dance, cake cutting… pretty much any important moment. I loved photography from a young age but decided I never ever wanted to be a wedding photographer, because they ruined the moment. Ironically now I spend most of my weekends May-November photographing weddings and loving every second!
When I graduated from the New England Institute of Art in 2010 I saw myself working for magazines or in a museum. My husband’s job brought us to Miami, FL and I began working with a commercial photographer working on ads for Burger King. It sounded like the greatest job ever but I soon discovered that commercial photography had little to do with photography and knew it wasn’t for me. As a military spouse I made some great friends while stationed in Miami. They found out I was a photographer and would ask if I could take some photos of their families. At the time I didn’t think of that as a career, more of a way to meet new people. One day I received an email that said “I wanted to thank you for the photos of my granddaughter. It’s so hard being away from her but your photos made me feel like I was there with her. They capture her just how she is, bubbly and silly and full of energy” That’s when I started to realize I was doing more than just taking pictures of people, I was capturing memories for them.
When we moved back home to Connecticut in 2013 I started to pursue portrait and wedding photography. Three years later I’m happy to call this my full-time job, with a studio in Plainfield and specializing in weddings. As for my “fear” of ruining the moment as a wedding photographer? Well past brides have said “Jess captured all the special moments of the wedding and I didn’t even know she was taking photos at the time! She’s great during the wedding without really being seen or heard.” “She has the amazing philosophy of taking things in as they happen, rather than forcing them. All in all, it leads to wonderful photos that truly capture the events and emotions of the day.”
The wedding experience with jesslancephoto is full service. I meet with couples right after their engagement (sometimes even at the proposal!), they come to the studio to discuss their wedding plans and I pass along all my favorite vendor’s information for florists, caterers, makeups, etc. Engagement sessions are typically done at one of their favorite places and they receive a hard cover book that doubles as a guest book at the wedding. As the big day gets closer we do a walkthrough at their venue to finalize all the best spots for portraits and create a timeline for the day to ensure every moment is captured. I’m usually one of the first vendors to arrive and almost last to leave but I love the whirlwind of the day. A low-res preview is available for the couple within the first week and they’re able to favorite any images they’d like edited first. Four to six weeks later they receive their final gallery and are invited back to the studio to start creating their wedding album and wall art. I enjoy giving couples a chance to relive their wedding day. Everything goes by so fast and most of the time I show them moments they had missed. My goal is to make the photography process as simple and fun as possible. I love when past couples call me for their other big life events….pregnancy, birth, military homecomings, anniversaries, family member’s engagements and more.
I try to give back when I can. I’ve donated my services to animal shelters looking for fun photos to help the adoption process, military homecomings and Chamber of Commerce events. I’m active in the Rose City BNI chapter and look forward to helping with more causes in the future!”
This photo of two canvases Jess made can’t do justice to seeing them in person. The fact that she loves what she does shines through in the photos she takes.
If you are looking for a wedding photographer to capture your special day, look no further, just check out Jess’s info and work at:
If you would like to be featured in one of our blogs, please go to our Contact Us page at MarilynRiel.com and tell me more about you and your business!
If you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about, please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.
If you have dreamed of having a photo-shoot that is all about you, call me to set up a complimentary consultation. You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And, as you now know, Gift Certificates are available.
Welcome to our Celebrating Local Women in Business blog! We are focusing on local Connecticut businesses owned and run by women. The blogs will give you a chance to learn about the women who own these businesses, why they chose the work they do, what drove them to transform that passion into their own business and how their business has a positive impact on others.
Today I’m introducing you to Heidi Duff who owns and operates Details Hair Studio in Norwich, CT. Heidi has been involved with hair and styling for over 25 years and is very passionate about what she does. I have had the pleasure of working with Heidi and her staff for a pinup session at our studio and we had a blast! Her dedication, love for her work and customer focused service, in addition to the special products you find at her business make her salon an experience that you don’t want to miss.
“I believe that a truly passionate person in any trade should leave a mark. Be someone that helps others and is never afraid to share of themselves. You are your only competition.”
I had this question posed to me recently: “How and why did you get into this business and what made you want to be a Hairdresser?” It’s a question I’m asked often.
Well, I could say it’s in my blood as a proud 2nd generation stylist following in my Oma’s footsteps all the way from Germany, or that Barbie made me do it, or that going to the local salon I went to as a kiddo on the west side, one that’s been in business for years locally – Hair Unique and its owner Cathy Delany – were inspirational beyond words. Truth be told, all three are reasons that got me to where I am today. I find myself immersed in a career of fashion and feel good, and blessed to be a part of it. Let me explain… doing hair isn’t something I do, it’s part of who I am! This may sound corny to some but when you find yourself enjoying what you do it never seems like work. I never find myself in the Grind as some say.
Twenty seven years and counting I’ve had the pleasure of impacting the community with making it a prettier place one head at a time, not just behind my chair but through coaching local and non-local stylists and students. I currently am the proud owner of Details Hair Studio LLC in Norwich CT where you can find me behind the chair, makeup station, facial room, nail station and in the office running the business. I am also a Culture Artist for Surface Professional Haircare where you may see me up and down the east coast, and I spend time volunteer coaching the students from my former trade school, Norwich Regional Technical High School.
All that said I believe that a truly passionate person in any trade should leave a mark. Be someone that helps others and is never afraid to share of themselves. You are your only competition.
I’m only as good as my last haircut or the last class I’ve taught. I hope that in doing so I inspire others to chase or follow their dreams, try something new, always keep learning new things, ask for help, help someone else, be brave and always dance like no one’s watching. Share your journey with as many as will listen and you will make a difference!
Heidi’s knowledge of her craft, dedication to her business and customers and keeping up on the latest in fashion are key to her success. Her desire to be an active part of her community and share her knowledge keeps her locally involved and sets a great example for all of us. Stop in soon to see her at Details Hair Studio in Norwich, CT.
If you would like to be featured in one of our blogs, please go to our Contact Us page at MarilynRiel.com and tell me more about you and your business!
If you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about, please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.
If you have dreamed of having a photo-shoot that is all about you, call me to set up a complimentary consultation. You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And, as you now know, Gift Certificates are available.
Welcome to another article in our series of Celebrating Local Women in Business blogs! We are focusing on local Connecticut businesses owned and run by women. The blogs will give you a chance to learn about the women who own these businesses, why they chose the work they do, what drove them to transform that passion into their own business and how their business has a positive impact on others.
Today’s spotlight is on Gioia Catania of AmericaFit in Norwich, CT. Gioia loves spending time outdoors and all kinds of sports and has taken those loves, and created a business where she can share her skills and experience with other families. Her energy and friendly personality are perfect for the job she does!
“Our business gives everyday people the opportunity to test their own limits. “
My love of sports started at an early age. I was on the gymnastics team in high school and am an avid sports fan. Sports have always been a part of my life. That love of sports has had me working for Ledyard Parks and Recreation in Ledyard CT for the past 30 years in various roles including Summer Coordinator and Gymnastics Instructor.
I have always enjoyed being on the go and like to spend time with our friends and family so thought combining the two would make a great company. There must be people out there that enjoy these things too!
We started this business in May of 2016 with the idea that all people regardless of age or fitness level deserve a place to enjoy fun and affordable fitness activities. We plan events that bring families, friends and coworkers together to compete against each other, or just against themselves, without the heavy competitive environment. The challenge of competition and exercise can benefit all people.
I envisioned an organization that all people can participate in without being a professional. My goal for AmericaFit is to have both amateur and professional events so that all people can enjoy the benefits of athletics.
We visited with Gioia during her event at Colonel Ledyard Park in Ledyard, CT and she has a “Run for Fun 5K” event coming up on Saturday October 1st at Dodd Stadium in Norwich, CT. To learn more about what Gioia does and what events they have coming up, visit her website AmericaFit.org and take a look at their calendar or check out her Facebook page!
If you would like to be featured in one of our blogs, please go to our Contact Us page at MenageriePhotography.com and tell me more about you and your business!
Welcome to our second Celebrating Local Women in Business blog! We are focusing on local Connecticut businesses owned and run by women. The blogs will give you a chance to learn about the women who own these businesses, why they chose the work they do, what drove them to transform that passion into their own business and how their business has a positive impact on others.
Today I want to introduce you to Diane Womack who owns and operates Diane’s Bait, Tackle & Charters in New London, CT. Diane has had a life long love of fishing and all things related starting when she was a very little girl fishing with her Grandfather. Diane’s warm personality, love for her work and customer focused service, in addition to the great products you find at her business make her a favorite with everyone she meets.
“My mission is to provide affordable and convenient fishing supplies and services to the fishing public. My desire is to bring families back together to experience the joys of the water and the quality of time spent together.”
“Throughout my life fishing has been my passion. My first fishing experience was at two years old. My grandfather was an avid fisherman and taught me everything he knew about the coastal waters of New England and fishing. Some of my fondest memories as a child were sitting by his side along the coast with our fishing poles in hand.
Although my professional career has taken me down many paths and wonderful journeys throughout my lifetime, seven years ago I had the opportunity to work in the fishing industry. I booked charters for a captain and ran his bait and tackle shop. The more I interacted with the customers, hearing their stories and sharing the excitement of the latest catch, I knew that someday, I wanted to have my own business doing exactly what I loved. In the fall of 2015 I decided to turn that dream into a reality. How fortunate that I was able to bring to fruition what others only dream of.
Being a lifetime-fishing enthusiast and a former business owner, I felt that having the chance to startup a new business was something meant to be. When my former employer decided to close his bait and tackle business, the opportunity to move on and to start my own business seemed to be the right time and the right thing to do. I worked through the winter putting my business plan together and opened my doors on April 1st, 2016.
My mission is to provide affordable and convenient fishing supplies and services to the fishing public. My desire is to bring families back together to experience the joys of the water and the quality of time spent together.
I offer a relaxed atmosphere where customers and their families can participate in this sport and I welcome their suggestions, stories and fishing experiences. I love it when I get pictures and videos of their successful catches and can share their day with other patrons.”
In support of others in her community, Diane teaches women and children how to fish to help them learn to be self-sustaining. Diane also carries “Fish Fry” T-shirts in support of a free breakfast program that provides for anyone in need in New London!
Diane’s knowledge of her industry, love of the water and all things fishing, and her desire to be an active part of her community set her and her business apart. Stop in to see her at Diane’s Bait, Tackle & Charters in New London!
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If you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about, please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.
If you have dreamed of having a photo-shoot that is all about you, call me to set up a complimentary consultation. You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And, as you now know, Gift Certificates are available.
Our recent blog about Steampunk generated a lot of interest and seems to lead right into the upcoming months where fantasy becomes real events we can visit. King Richard’s Faire is in full swing, the Connecticut Renaissance Faire starts soon, Halloween is just around the corner, and the Rhode Island Comic-Con is following shortly after. There is no shortage of reasons to don the attire of your favorite fantasy or cosplay character. For many people, this is not a one day or holiday fun dress-up, but a style choice that they blend into their everyday lives.
No matter your role-play character choice, it’s definitely the time of year to take a chance and check out at least one of these events. Many of the people involved in these events spend a year or more perfecting their attire, make-up and mannerisms. This is a hobby for some but a serious lifestyle for others.
If you have ever attended a Renaissance Faire you are probably familiar with the actors who are in full character for their time period. Not only are they dressed for the part, but speaking in the language style appropriate for the time or place the faire represents. They are very serious about their faire and want everyone to have the best time possible. They do their best to fully immerse their visitors in the experience.
At the first faire I attended, a gentleman approached me yelling “Young man!” and I started moving out of the way when he then loudly asked why as a woman I was wearing “man’s attire” – Jeans and shirt. I learned quickly how to play along with the fun and joke back and had an amazing time. I was able to eat more than I should, shop period clothes, jewelry and accessories and have a great time with some cross-bow type devices made to shoot mini marshmallows!
Halloween parties are always fun and a great excuse to get dressed up and spend time with friends. Halloween celebrations have changed drastically since its inception but today it’s generally celebrated as a time to go trick-or-treating, have parties, put on costumes and just have an all-around fun time! So no matter how you celebrate it, make sure you are capturing the moment with pictures. These will let you look back, smile, laugh and remember the fun.
If Comic-Con events are more your style, you are in luck! The Rhode Island Comic-Con in November will have the last New England appearance of Stan Lee! Born in 1922, Stan Lee, former President and Chairman of Marvel Comics, is the creator of Spiderman, the Hulk, the Fantastic Four, Iron Man, Daredevil, Thor, the X-Men and many other fictional characters. Many of these characters have been re-born to new generations with the resurgence of comic character based movies. True followers of these events spend countless hours perfecting their costumes and makeup. There are costume contests, and even the opportunity to apply to get married at the event! It is an expectation that there will be professional photographers at events like Comic-Con to take pictures of people in costume and even some to take your picture with one of the celebrities at the event. With so much happening and so many people in costume, you can’t help but have a great time while you’re there!
So if any of these events fit your idea of fun, check them out, have a blast and maybe even get dressed up in character to join in the festivities. And don’t forget to get your picture taken to immortalize this moment!!
If you already have or are planning a spectacular costume and would like to have professional images taken, keep a look-out for our upcoming Fall Campaign announcement!! Here’s a hint – our theme this year is “The Costume Party”. More details to be announced in the next few days! Our Newsletter members will be the first to get all the details!
As always, if you have a topic you would like covered or want to contact us about setting up a photo session, maybe even in costume? Contact Us to schedule your session now!
King Richard’s Faire – Every Saturday and Sunday plus Columbus Day from Sept. 1st through October 21st, 2018 in Carver, MA
CT Renaissance Faire – Every Saturday and Sunday plus Columbus Day in October in North Haven, CT
Rhode Island Comic-Con – November 2nd- 4th,2018 at the Dunkin Donuts Center in Providence, RI
For the Pinup or Rockabilly enthusiasts don’t forget the New England Shakeup #6 Sept. 28, 2018 at the Sturbridge Host Hotel & Conference Center, Sturbridge, MA
Do you have naked walls? Are they bare or have just the token seasonal decorations? Or do your walls proudly display your history and your family? Are you like so many of us who have hundreds or even thousands of images either printed and stuffed in boxes or saved digitally on our PCs or other devices? Unfortunately, surveys have found that 98% of us never even print our photos, never mind display them in our homes. This includes the CD of 2000+ images from the wedding, the newborn photos you loved and shared on social media but never got around to printing, and the fun family vacations where you actually got all the kids smiling at the same time- usually at your own expense!
In today’s busy world, everything is happening so fast that it is hard to keep up, never mind finding time to do those extra projects. What I am about to suggest, however, is worth the time and something that you will treasure for a lifetime. Print your photos and hang them on the wall!! Yes, even those old photos in the box on the top shelf of your closet or in the attic. Pull them out!!
Hanging photos of important moments and of people who hold a special place in your heart has so many benefits. Not only does it honor those moments and the people you shared them with, it gives you a chance, every time you look at them, to relive those feelings of happiness, love and joy. On a rough day when everything has gone wrong it and you are seriously considering hiding under the blankets, a photo of your kids actually smiling at each other can give you that boost you need. Hanging your wedding picture next to one of your parents and maybe even your grandparents is a great way to honor family and tradition. Mother, daughter pictures are a great way to begin a generation’s photo tradition and the photos can be passed down to carry on to the next generation.
There are many sites that will help you design photo collages or you can purchase collage frames on amazon. Pinterest has dozens of pins to inspire your design whether you are the minimalist or the go big or go home type. If you have your pictures professionally taken, your photographer can often assist with selecting sizes that work well together depending on the space you have. Images of family, friends, pets, nature photography, all have special meaning and can be hung in your home. Where you decide to hang your images will often determine the size and type of art you choose. With today’s technology, even old photos can be reproduced and made into canvases, metal prints, acrylic prints or even wooden prints. No matter your style there is a form that you can use to display the photography you love.
Your photos can be hung in any room of your house – yes, even the bathroom can have images creatively hung to go with your colors and style. Perhaps a nature photograph that contains colors to match (or even a stark contrast) could brighten up the space and stamp your personality on the room. Encourage your kids to hang their favorite pictures, maybe even put up a cork board for them to create their own collage that can grow over time. Hanging images from their favorite moments or accomplishments can be a huge confidence booster for them on a tough day.
Bedrooms, master bathrooms and even walk-in closets now proudly display photos that may be more private. Hanging a boudoir photo behind his shirts in the master closet can give him a smile as he gets ready for work each day.
The important thing is to get your images printed and displayed. I was reminded today by a wonderful wedding photographer that with technology changing so rapidly, we can lose the opportunity to easily retrieve our images from old media. There was a time when a floppy disk was the thing and now most PCs don’t even come with a CD drive. No matter the reason you took the photos or why you may be considering having new photos taken, hang your art to cherish and to brighten your home. Share the love, the memories and the joy!
Hopefully this article has inspired you to dust off your old photos or perhaps capture some new memories to display in your home.
If you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about, please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.
If you have dreamed of having a photo-shoot that is all about you, call me to set up a complimentary consultation. You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And, as you now know, Gift Certificates are available.
