Cake Push-Ups

Remember the Ice Cream Push-Ups from the 70's?  I remember them with orange ice cream in them and of course we bought them from the ice cream truck.  So nostalgic! 

Amazing Cake Creations and Amazing Acrylic created these unbelievable Cake Push-Ups and served them in several flavors at the OC Brides Bridal Networking Event last Wednesday at Astor Classics Event Center.

Being the hostess with the mostess that I am, I didn't have time to try one that night but brought this beautiful raspberry one home.  I finally got around to trying it last night and ....  WOW!  It was better than ...  well you know.  It was unbelievable.  What a great combination for these two AMAZING companies.  Looking forward to seeing and tasting more of the creations from these two OC Brides members.

The Secret To Successful Networking Is A Four Letter Word

Mindy Lockard, Contributor

 

                 Talk.

This is the first of a three part series exploring the professional words we use. Over the next three weeks we will cover our words related to: networking, interviewing and just around the office. The words we choose have been proven to impact our personal brand and how quickly we move up or down the professional ladder. Here’s to keeping our words and our future on the up and up!

A Harvard University study shows that 15% of the reason a person gets a job, keeps a job, or advances in a job is related to technical skills and job knowledge… 85% has to do with people skills. Due to our current employment rate and downsized companies, working this 85% is never more important than when networking. Whether it’s official business or social, making conversations can make or break how we build a network of people to call on as we make our journey up the professional ladder.

As the old saying goes, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” Likewise, what comes out of your mouth can never taken back.  Remember – working a room is work. It’s exhausting, and it can be overwhelming, but with a few conversation skills you can be sure that you’ll be communicating with 100% of your people skills.

Work Your Name: Enunciating your first and last name is the single most important aspect of networking, because if those you’re connecting with don’t know your name…they can’t contact you. When saying your name, say it slowly and clearly. In the world of self-introductions, Mindy easily becomes Cindy, and more difficult names can become nothing more than a mumble… especially in a sea of people working hard to make their names known and remembered.

Work to Remember Names: Ninety percent of the clients I ask say they are terrible at remembering names. But remembering names is the key to creating a strong network. After all, it’s hard to call on “What’s his name” or to engage with “Hey, YOU,” for an entire conversation. A quick tip to remembering names is to make sure you hear it and know it right away by adding it to the conversation, “Nice to meet you, Jim,” or “Tell me about what you do for XYZ bank, Jim.” And if you didn’t catch it the first time, ask again. “Please, tell me your name again,” and this time stop, look at the person in front of you, and truly listen!

Work to Know Others: Creating a solid network of people that you can call on for advancement or professional collaboration comes from getting to know others. Networking conversation works best when you exercise a 30% responding to questions about you and 70% actively try to learn about others. Ask open-ended questions such as “Tell me about how long you’ve been with Bank XYZ?” rather than “How long have you been with Bank XYZ?” Using “Tell me about . . .” actually requires your conversational partner to reply with more than one word. A conversation of one-word answers is, in a word, awkward.
Networking conversation should always be inclusive. A potential business associate should never try to enter your conversation with someone else only to feel the cold shoulder. Bring others in with a warm welcome like, “Mary, so great to see you.  We were just discussing Jim’s recent trip to Paris,” or “Hi, my name is Mindy and this is Jim. We were just discussing his recent trip to Paris. Have you been?”

Work to Help Others Connect: Remember that working a room is all about staying in motion. Sometimes,  a chatty Cathy corners us and won’t let us go. Prepare for these situations by crafting an exit strategy. You might say, “I really enjoyed meeting you, Cathy! I see my colleague Jennifer has just arrived and I promised to introduced her to our new client.”  Or you could introduce your new friend to someone who has something in common with her. “Cathy, I’d like to introduce you to Steve. Steve just moved to the area from your hometown.  I’m sure he would love to hear how your transition went.” Thus, you free yourself up to meet new people and help Cathy connect with another potential new friend.

Using your words wisely and truly engaging with people will set you apart from the rest of the room. Not only will you be remembered, but by asking intelligent questions of others, you will build a strong network of people you can call on when researching, fact-finding or pursuing a job or advancement. Remembering that 85% of job success comes from successful people skills, work a room with confidence and you’ll find yourself with a 100% return on every conversation.

Mindy Lockard is a nationally recognized etiquette and personal branding expert. Through her writing, speaking and as an on-air television segments, Mindy strives to uphold the values of tradition with a modern twist. Keep intouch with Mindy, The Gracious Girl, on Twitter, Facebook and The Gracious Girl blog.

Coming Soon to Tiato in Santa Monica

Awesome Organic lunch at Tiato in Santa Monica -- the site of our first Bridal Networking Event in May. This was Grilled Eggplant and Tofu in Black Bean Sauce, Truffle Mac n Cheese and Green Goddess health drink. Mmmm good! Can't wait for our event!

May 22nd will be our first OC Brides event in LA.  Join us for some great networking contrived of bonding and new relationships!  You'll surely leave with more friends than you started.  Check OC Brides for more info.  Registration will be open around April 19th.

3 Networking Rules You Should Break

  by Tony Morrison

Some people are naturally great networkers – they have a million stories, know what to say and to whom, and they can tell a joke with perfect timing. They are great at meeting new people and making small talk, and by the end of a function they will leave with a pocket full of business cards to prove it.

If this isn’t you, learning to be like that can be a challenge. Even worse, there is no exact formula for being a great networker. Yes, there are certain rules and etiquette to follow, but in the end, it’s not a guarantee. It takes practice – and not just in the beginning stages. Networking continues throughout one’s career.

If you are struggling with networking, then let’s take a different perspective to explore what you might be doing wrong in networking situations, and stop those habits first. Take a look at the this starter list of 3 rules that you should consider breaking:

Rule 1: Networking to Achieve Personal Gains
Think you’re being sly about promoting yourself for job leads or for your “game-changing” startup? Think again. Self-promotion is easy to spot, and as a result, others will avoid you. Shameless self-promotion can only come off as insincere. Treating people like business prospects devalues the rapport you’re trying to build. Instead, talk less about yourself and listen to others for ways that you can be a valuable connection.

Rule 2: Never Asking for Help
Note that there is a time and place for everything. While you should not ever solely reach out to your contacts because you need something, it’s perfectly fine to speak up when you could really use some advice or a favor. If you’ve been able to be of value to others, your connections will have no problem helping you in return. Reciprocity is the name of the game.

Rule 3: Handing Out Business Cards to Everyone You Meet
This doesn’t mean everyone you meet isn’t a potential connection; they very well could be. However, rather than handing out business cards, make sure that you’re establishing a relevant and mutually beneficial connection first. Then make a plan to connect at a later date to have a deeper discussion and exchange your contact information It also makes it easier for you to follow up with five people you got to know really well, than it is to contact 25 people about whom you know nothing because you only exchanged your card with them. By all means though, if they ask for your card instead, don’t hesitate to give them one (it’s a good thing!).

The key difference between a great networker and a bad networker is that the latter will see networking as a chore, while the former will see it as furthering or nurturing an ongoing relationship with peers and opinion leaders in their profession. ​Networking isn’t necessarily about the people you know or how many LinkedIn connections you have. It’s more about how well you know the people with whom you are connected and whether or not you can offer valuable advice, skills, or be of service to them in some way, and vice versa.

Tony Morrison is the Vice President of Business Development at Cachinko, a unique professional community where social networking and job opportunities come together. His roles include sales, marketing, and business development. He brings passion to Cachinko where he focuses on helping job seekers to find their ideal job and employers to find, attract, and engage their next rock star candidates. Find him on Twitter and Talent Connection. And, connect with Cachinko on Facebook or Twitter.

Source: A Hire Calling
Photo: bepsy/Shutterstock.com

OC Brides March Bridal Networking Event

OC Brides Monthly Bridal & Networking Event

 Connecting Brides and Wedding Professionals

through Social Tools and Bridal Events!

  BNI.com conducted a survey in 2010 and found that more than half their respondents got over 70% of their business from word-of-mouth or referrals! Our networking events are a fantastic way to meet new business prospects, potential partners, and leverage relationships within your existing network for referrals. The thought of networking can be intimidating, awkward and unpleasant. Yet connecting with other professionals and making a positive impression is not only important for your business, it can be fun and exciting if approached with the right attitude. Join us and see this fabulous contemporary venue, try some fantastic food, network with your peers, and meet some brides.

Special Vendor mini Seminar on "How To Work the Room at Networking Events" by Marcia Riner!

Fling into Spring

at

  Scott's Restaurant

 

Like the beautiful glass chandelier for which it is named, The Murano Room at Scott's is a classic treasure created anew.  While still typifying the time-honored standards one expects from Scott's, the newly designed Murano Room adds a refreshed and spirited atmosphere to any event.  Scott's Restaurant and Bar is an impeccable location for private occasions of all sizes. It would be our pleasure to assist you in the planning of your event in either of our two private spaces. The Glass Room is a bright and intimate room encased by expansive skylights and seats up to 70 guests. The Private Dining Room is larger and accommodates up to 120 sit down guests.

 Raffle prizes welcome from OCBrides Members for Vendors and Brides

Groom's Tungsten Ring from Diana & Co. Jewelry Designs (Value $300)

FREE Groom's Tuxedo Rental from Clint's Tuxedo

Bridal Shower Cake from Amazing Cake Creations

If you donate a raffle prize your company is listed in the program

 as well as announced at the mixer!

  Taste the fabulous food from the chefs at Scott's Restaurant and Cake from Amazing Cake Creations

 Enjoy music and lighting by MIJO Entertainment

   Make Memories with  Larissa Ann Photography, and iTouch Photobooth

Smell what's in bloom by Irises Designs and Wonderland Dream Weddings 

See the beauty of Wonderland Dream Weddings, Flawless Weddings and Events, and White Feathers Events

Special deals from Diana & Company Jewelry Designs, Elegant Wind Waves, Premier Bridal Shows, WedStore24, My Cake Plate, Bridal Pampering Services by Nicole Leal, iT Works!, Send Out Cards, Marcia Riner of Edward Jones, Clint's Tuxedo, Deborah Lindquist Bridal Gown Designs, Wellness Choice, Time2Travel, and more!

Pick up your complimentary copy of The Wedding Guide

VENDORS: Mixer is $10.00  Prepaid and $15.00 at the door.

BRIDES ARE FREE

Venue Testimonial:

"It was such a wonderful turn out and such a great crowd!  I was busy that whole night talking to potential bride and grooms!  I have received a couple of calls, so that Mixer definitely benefited the Hotel and myself!  It was also nice to have other vendors, especially planners, attend so that they can refer us and know what a Beautiful Hotel we have!  I really enjoy the monthly mixers and look forward to seeing you next month!"

Kimberly Provenzano -- Sheraton Anaheim -- Jan 2012

Bride Testimonials:

Mary Joy Karen Gamueda -- I was pleasantly surprised with the ambiance, food and venue. We also enjoyed speaking with many vendors present. It is definitely different from the expos I’ve attended.

Cynthia Chavira -- Thank you so much! The event was nice I love how we get to interact with the vendors their not just at their booths trying to pitch their sales schpeal :) my fiance Really liked that they catered to the groom he's been to a couple and its all about the bride! I would love to participate once my wedding is done with! :)

Upcoming Mixers and Events

April 18th 2012 -- Astor Classic Cars and Event Center (70's Theme)
May 23 --  TBA
June 20 -- Nautical Museum Newport Beach at the Fun Zone
July 18 -- Hacienda Santa ana
August --  Embassy Suites Brea (Pending Confirmation)
September -- Black Gold Golf Club
October -- hilltop Banquet Center
November -- TBA

Our events are monthly.  If you are a location and would like to get more exposure by hosting a mixer for 120 + wedding professionals and brides, contact Cindy at cindy@ocbrides.com

Coming to the LA area in May --  Tiato Santa Monica!

THIS IS AN ADULT FUNCTION.  NO CHILDREN PLEASE!

Over The Top Wedding Giveaway from Premier BridalShows

Sunday's bridalshow at the LA Marriott Downtown was the last chance for brides to enter the "Over the Top" wedding giveaway.  We are anxiously awaiting the big reveal of the winner so we can present them with their beautiful flip flops!

OVER THE TOP WEDDING GIVEAWAY INCLUDES . . .

Full DJ Package from Elegant Proposals Entertainment

5 Bridesmaids Dresses from Mary Me Bridal/Saison Blanche

State of the Art Photo Booth from ITouchBooth

Flower Girl Dress/Ring Bearer Suit or Tux

up to 3 Jr. Bridesmaids Dresses from The Bella Bambino

After Reception Gourmet Taco Truck from  
Soho Taco Gourmet Taco Catering

Wedding Coordinating Package from Flawless Weddings and Events

Bridal Bouquet/Toss and Bridesmaid's Bouquets from   Amazing Blooms Studios

Pin-Up Party from RetroDolls

Thank You Stationary from Totally Inviting

4 pack of private dance lessons plus a free

music cut/edit doe their first dance from ATOMIC Ballroom

Chic Feet! Fancy flip flops for bride and bridesmaids from  Wedding Tennies and Formal Shoes

 6 Elegant Windwave Rentals by Debbie

WeddingStore 24 Bridal Expo

Photo by Harvard Photography
	Your Everyday Bridal Expo!    Exploring business opportunities within the Wedding Industry? Looking for new and creative ways to secure leads?  Consider  Wedding Store 24 - Your Everyday Bridal Expo!   Wedding Store 24 is the ultimate "bridal resource studio" in Southern California. The modern concept of our everyday bridal expo exposes your  brand to brides 6 days a week. We are located in the heart of Little India and next to the largest and most elegant South Asian bridal gown and jewelry boutiques that cater exclusively to Indian Weddings.   Save The Date for our next Bride / Vendor mixer! Come network with a variety of wedding professionals as well as interested future brides over Mimosas and Bellinis. Mingle and share ideas in an intimate "Wedding Brunch" setting at the Double Tree by Hilton San Pedro.   WHEN -  TUESDAY APRIL 1, 2012 from 11:00am to 3:00pm WHERE - Double Tree Hotel by Hilton San Pedro,    2800 Cabrillo Marina, San Pedro, CA 90731     Benefits of becoming a Wedding Store 24 member:   -  The showcasing of your services to the thousands of shoppers throughout the  South Asian Community.   -  Recieving free booth space at our exciting quarterly wedding shows and mixers.   - Using Wedding Store 24's storefront as your very own satellite/studio office, conferencing center, or whatever space you may need to meet personally with brides at our convenient location.  -  Online exposure and hits through our website and Facebook page. It would be our pleasure to show you around the store and introduce you personally to our revolutionary concept face-to-face. We're excited to get to know you better! Hope to see you soon and don't forget to join our next Bride / Vendor Mixer on  April 1, 2012 at the Double Tree by Hilton San Pedro!  Wedding Store 24  18514 Pioneer Blvd.  Artesia, CA 90701 (562) 366-3649 info@WeddingStore24.com www.WeddingStore24.com "I am happy to be a Wedding Store 24 vendor. The experience has provided my company with lots of qualified leads and considerable exposure to Indian community. My company has seen a substantial increase in sales due to being a vendor at Wedding Store 24." - Paula Estes (Petalos Di Pauli) "I have been advertising with Wedding Store 24 for a year and just renewed my term. The quality leads I get from the store has proven that this is my best source of marketing. I look forward to another great year!" - Dahlia Advani (Capri Flowers) "As a business that specializes in South Asian weddings, Wedding Store 24 has been the ultimate marketing tool for my business.  - Ajay Manaktala (Special Occasions DJ and Lighting)