I started my business in Ottawa. Small but sophisticated, it was the perfect location for my modest startup. Image coaching and etiquette training were its foundation and although there was a ready market— perhaps because of the city’s reputation as an international crossroads — shoestring best describes my operating budget.

Over the first year, I developed a large following for my newsletters. Sent snail mail, of course. They were key to creating buzz but the high cost of printing and postage forced me to operate, let’s just say, strategically. When a typo resulted in an overrun of 300 newsletters, it was as though “une petite catastrophe” had hit my fledgling enterprise. Every time I cast my eyes over the stack of extras, it seemed to expand. I like to think I’m a practical person but as we all know, anxiety is not the mother of invention. Then it hit me — just over 300 Members of Parliament and postage-free to the House of Commons. Bingo! Within hours of my eureka moment, the newsletters were mailed and before I could say, “Fingers crossed this works,” the phones started ringing. A careless typo had turned into a door opener par excellence.

My background as a “Fashionologist” — I both trained and taught at design school — was my original entrée into the profession as a style consultant. Now, I was teaching corporate executives and my newfound audience of politicians to define their best looks, master intelligent wardrobe planning and understand how apparel choices can be empowering.

Business etiquette training added another important dimension to my repertoire. I helped the constantly changing stream of men and women navigate the corridors of power. Before long, I was working with the capital’s movers and shakers, and travel with a capital T became part of my job description. By 2004, I was spending so much time in Toronto; I decided to open an image consultancy office in the city’s financial district. It was a natural next-step and as a Montrealer born and bred, I had an affinity for the big-city excitement and action.

Right from the start, Toronto clients expressed keen interest. The three pillars of my business courses are style and image consulting, business etiquette training and office body language. They all work together as a unit. Why? Consider the Eliza Doolittle experiment. This may seem over-the-top and too far from the boardroom’s perspective, but it makes the point. Professor Higgins could dress Eliza up to look the part but if she didn’t know how to behave, didn’t matter how gorgeous the gown! Just because the person is impeccably turned out, doesn’t mean executive presence is automatic. Image consultancy and business etiquette training go hand-in-hand.

As for office body language, learning to detect — and project — non-verbal cues, is a skill rarely taught at business schools. Sometimes, an innocent movement may send the wrong signal. My strategy is to teach both how to interpret business body language and how to use specific gestures to present a high level of credibility. In other words, effective body language is a prerequisite for executive presence.

Sometimes, people balk at the use of the word etiquette. Sounds “old fashioned” or “fussy,” they’ll say. But there really isn’t any other term to express its true meaning: a customary code of behaviour. Protocol or protocols are different and refer to actual rules of behaviour. Hosting a dinner for Queen Elizabeth involves specific protocols — introductions, seating plans — but interrupting the Queen during a conversation is a breach of etiquette, definitely a faux pas.

Learn more. Louis Dussault, author of Le Protocole, has a decidedly modern point of view on etiquette and protocol.

———————————————

Subscribe to our FREE monthly newsletter
Download your free Executive Presence Scorecard

Unlike a contest, when it comes to setting goals, there’s no closing date. We’re only a few weeks into the New Year so the timing is perfect. All the holiday brouhaha is over and with this ferociously cold weather, what could be better than quiet contemplation in a cozy, warm room?

Not to put a damper on the time-honoured tradition of making resolutions, but setting goals takes personal aspirations to a new plateau. Instead of simply resolving to lose ten pounds, the goal setter determines to keep them off. See what I mean? You’re putting a spin on a resolution and by making it a goal, you’re providing the extra steam necessary to reach that plateau.

Part of my ritual is reviewing some of my goals from past years. As I read my old notes I’m amazed that dreams have become reality and in many cases, surpassed my wildest expectations. Clearly, goals setting, works for me. But it was a supplier who encouraged me to write about this annual rite of mine. He was so enthusiastic about the entire process and how it contributes to self-development, I thought I could offer some encouragement for establishing a goal setting initiative.

In my case, the instigator was my good friend Peggy McColl, whose life work is helping people achieve their goals. During the early years, she worked with me. Peggy made it fun. Although we laughed like schoolgirls, ultimately, she inspired me to establish my goals and — to dream. Now, I review my goals every day. I even record them so I can listen on my IPod.

Peggy’s process helped me develop my focus. Now, it’s my turn to share this process with you. Here we go!

I start by listing the 8 main categories:

• Relationships: Personal and Professional
• Health and Fitness
• Business / Career
• Personal Development / Education
• Financial
• Spiritual
• Donations / Community service
• Fun stuff: things I’d like to do, to have

Then I answer these 3 questions:

• What’s stopping me from achieving my goals?
• My identity today, who do I believe I am now?
• My new identity, who am I now?

Then, my big dreams — I call it my wild sheet. Dreaming big or small costs the same but dreaming big is a lot more fun! It’s critical to start every sentence with I am, I have, I … etc.

If nothing stopped me:

• Who would I be?
• Where would I be?
• What would I have?

And finally, a last little nudge. Setting goals is positive and fun. Besides, you’ve got more to gain than to lose!

———————————————

Subscribe to our FREE monthly newsletter
Download your free Executive Presence Scorecard

And many of these resolutionists are so unschooled at working out it’s scary. Excessive weights, pathetic posture on the Stairmaster and high-speed reps are all common infractions. But with a mindset of overcoming holiday splurging, poorly executed sit-ups and crunches are positively epidemic.

I have always known that form is all when it comes to these core workouts but never realized that sit-ups are absolutely off-limits for some people, until I read Unbreakable: A woman’s triumph over osteoporosis, by Christine Thomas. I met Christine five years ago when she booked an image consultation. But she had embarked on her journey in 2001 as a 42-year old new mom who had just been diagnosed with osteoporosis. After fracturing her spine in five places, even the simple act of lifting her newborn daughter was too much for her fragile and compromised skeletal system.

I guess before I met Christine, like most people I thought of osteoporosis (if I thought of it, at all) as a disease of very old people. Not so. This year, an estimated 1.5 million Canadians over 40 years of age and older will be diagnosed with osteoporosis. Startling. And this is what makes Christine’s book so important. Far more than the story of her personal evolution as she unraveled the challenges of osteoporosis, Unbreakable is a guide for anyone concerned about brittle bones — from pain management to calcium supplements and their much needed additive, Vitamin D, to bone density tests and stretching techniques. It’s all here, exercises to avoid — the infamous sit-up — and exercises to embrace: get in the pool! This is the ultimate resource on living with osteoporosis.

Here’s an excerpt from Unbreakable that traces Christine’s reasons for contacting me —and the happy outcome:

“Fractures affect the figure! The loss of height and curvature of my spine made me more compact and thickened my waist because the distance between my underarms and waist, and my waist to my hips was less than it used to be. Clothes that used to look lovely no longer fit very well and shopping was frustrating.

Diane Craig was kind and confident as she helped me build a wardrobe. We chose current fashions that fit my personal taste and flattered my new physique. Picking the right wardrobe helped me to accept what I cannot change about my body. It helped rebuild a positive self-image despite the consequences of my fractures. Through a figure and style analysis, I became more aware and more accepting of my body’s proportions and learned secrets to enhance my overall appearance by selecting correct lines and designs. This was and continues to be one of my greatest investments in healing my emotional wounds and lifting my spirits.”

Merci Christine. Bonne année et bonne santé!

———————————————

Subscribe to our FREE monthly newsletter

Do you have executive presence? What about your team? Download your free
Executive Presence Scorecard

 Naturally, I’d followed the press on Allure of the Seas — world’s largest cruise ship, a first of its kind collaboration with DreamWorks for onboard entertainment, a 3-D theatre, a skating rink, an Aqua Theater, a carousel, a garden, fabulous restaurants — in short, a magical playground on a cutting-edge cruise ship.

 I mentally started packing my cruise-wear.

Understandably, I was excited about this unexpected invitation but I must say, nothing could have prepared me for the extraordinary two days that lay ahead. The Allure of the Seas is truly majestic. There was a sense of glamour and excitement from the moment we boarded — “we” being my 28-year old son and myself. But what struck me immediately was the profound feeling of fun in the air.

Everyone was there to celebrate the launch of this amazing ship. And when Richard Fain, CEO of RCCL, demonstrated his surfing skills on the FlowRider®, he sent a very clear message. 

To understand how this wave riding technology works, think of a thin sheet of water flowing over a static form to simulate ocean waves. It combines the thrill of surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding in the safety of a pool. And speaking of thrills, I had my very first zip-line experience — thanks to encouraging words from my son!

The entertainment was sensational with DreamWorks characters, up close and personal. This was a truly star-studded cruise. And along with all this excitement, the cast and crew of the movie, Jack and Jill, were onboard filming. I had heard about the location shoot but really didn’t think much about it till I stepped into the elevator and saw a man wearing tights, a crinoline and full make-up. Not just any man, but Adam Sandler! Cool guy that he is, he looked at me and said, “Sorry about the dress.”

Hindsight is a wonderful thing because after the fact I thought of all kinds of things I could have said. “I’m an image consultant and this is not your best look.” Or “OMGosh!  You’re Adam Sandler — I am so thrilled to meet you.” Fact is, I said and did nothing. A missed moment. But it got me thinking about the protocols of meeting celebrities.  Meanwhile, I was having a perfectly marvelous time — the proverbial kid in the candy store. Thank you Royal Carribean!

On the flight home, I collected my thoughts about meeting celebrities. Here are a few guidelines for every celebrity category: top chefs, actors, dancers, opera singers, rock stars, master architects, best-selling authors …

1. Famous men and women should always be addressed as Mr., Miss or first and last name, as in Adam Sandler. A first name only suggests familiarity and even though you may be more than familiar with the person, he or she has never set eyes on you before.

 2. These same men and women are absolutely off-limits when surrounded by family members. Stay your distance.

 3. If the famous person doesn’t appear to acknowledge you, same story. Keep moving.

 4. When your smile is returned following a brief introduction, it’s probably best to make tracks. Autograph and photo requests could turn a memorable moment into a forgettable one.

 5. Think before you make your move. If the celebrity is known for edgy, high-strung or nervous behaviour, don’t intrude. Respect a sense of privacy.

———————————————

Subscribe to our FREE monthly newsletter

Do you have executive presence? What about your team? Download your free
Executive Presence Scorecard

I will admit to a soft spot for black tie, a fondness for three-piece suits and a liking for tweed jackets with cashmere sweaters and cords, when the occasions arise. But this leaning towards tailored clothing doesn’t rule out hoodies and sweat pants — as long as they’re confined to the gym! Because when it comes to dressing down, I’m with Jerry Seinfeld. In the episode called The Pilot, where Jerry and George are pitching a TV network with their idea for a new show, Jerry wants George to shape up and dress the part:

“You know the message you’re sending out to the world with these sweatpants? You’re telling the world, ‘I give up. I can’t compete in normal society. I’m miserable, so I might as well be comfortable.’” Jerry in The Pilot

Jerry really got it right. Clothing does send a message. But there’s an enormous side benefit to a well-groomed appearance and general sense of “dressing up” — it gives you a lift. Big time. One of the greatest advocates of this philosophy is my friend Bill Shaddy. As former Senior Director of International Personnel Operations at Pepsi, Bill knows “the right stuff” when it comes to stocking his closet. These days, however, things are a little more complicated. For starters, he has all the buttons on his shirts replaced with snaps. Bill, I should explain, has been living with MS for the last 18 years and snaps are just easier than wrangling with a button and bitty hole. Rain or shine, Bill dresses up. His only concession is a stylish cane by his side.

After life in the fast lane — including overseas postings in London, India, Cyrus and eventually Corporate HQ, just outside New York City — Bill now lives in Sarasota, Florida. Naturally, the local “dress code” is far more casual than his habitual boardroom haunts. He accepts that a relaxed dress code makes sense in Sarasota’s climate and that it’s a lifestyle thing, too. It’s only natural that clothes reflect the laid-back culture of Florida but I can picture Bill saying; “Dressing up just makes one feel so much better!” His sense of well being reflects a keen level of attention to detail. Trousers need a little extra knee-room to accommodate his new, life-changing walk-aid (link) and there are the snap alterations on shirts. Actually, Bill has become adept at making adjustments:

“My left side is sort of ‘going for the tide’ so I need to request restaurant servers to be certain my food is cut into bite-size pieces.”

Certainly the greatest adjustment was his decision to leave Pepsi. It was an intense and dynamic environment. The focus of his work was building local business teams in critical, emerging markets while helping to drive Pepsi operating systems. An essential component of his mandate was fostering the company’s global, cultural values at a local level. There were some challenges during the earliest stages of his diagnosis, when colleagues noticed something was not quite right. Ultimately, despite encouragement to remain on the job, Bill made his move to medically retire and relocate to Florida, so he could better manage his health agenda. Today, his mandate, depending on how he feels, is to deliver Junior Achievement basic business programs to students at local middle schools.

When it comes to dressing up, Bill Shaddy and I are on the same wavelength. Merci Bill for sharing your point of view!

———————————————

Subscribe to our FREE monthly newsletter

Do you have executive presence? What about your team? Download your free
Executive Presence Scorecard

Life in downtown Toronto is fast-paced. Perhaps not by New York City standards, but more oil and gas companies are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange than any other exchange in the world. Just stand in the underground walkway beneath the financial district at lunchtime to get a taste of the energy that defines this city. My work is very much a part of this intense and exciting atmosphere. Every day I meet new people. New connections are made, new alliances formed. And although corporate associations last for years — my private consultations are usually one-offs. I work with these clients on a very intense basis for a short period of time and then poof — mission accomplished and time to move on.

Such is the case with Pamelia. I will never forget the day she walked into my office. Tall. Blonde. Great presence, tons of positive energy and a radiant smile. She was about to turn fifty and wanted to update her look. It was obvious from the first few minutes that we were going to work well together. We made a date to meet at her place for a thorough closet run-through.

The big day arrived and before we tackled the tough editing process — there are always more discards than “keepers” — Pamelia showed me her beautifully appointed home. She had high praise for her neighbour, Mel, a deft hand at constructing numerous enhancements throughout the house and explained that since retiring, his accomplished skill-set had worked many small miracles.

Then, it was time to get to work. We started with the bedroom closet and were making great progress when Pamelia opened her armoire. I stopped in my tracks. There, in front of me, on the inside door panels, all Pamelia’s jewellery was beautifully arranged and hanging from a series of hooks mounted on large boards. This was simply the most brilliant jewellery storage system I had ever seen. Courtesy, once again, of gifted Mel. Forget the usual tangle of necklaces and jumble sale of earrings. I nicknamed it “accessories central” and immediately filed away the concept for my own armoire.

But Pamelia was a step ahead of me. While I organized and sorted her clothes into groups, she quietly slipped away. Of course, at the time, I wasn’t really paying attention but about a week later the whole picture became clear. The day of our final official meeting arrived and as Pamelia welcomed me at the front door, her radiant smile was replaced with a mild-wide grin. “For you,” she said, “from Mel,” as she presented two beautiful Tiffany-blue jewellery boards. My very own accessories central!

I knew offering payment was off-limits — Pamelia had told me Mel’s projects were his pleasure — so a few days later I delivered a bottle of bubbly. Their generous gesture still has me smiling. Working with positive people is, indeed,
a blessing; they bring joy and brighten the day. It’s like a gift of sunshine. I’ve thought long and hard about how to share this sentiment with Pamelia and Mel and finally decided. I’ll send them this blog to simply say it was wonderful to meet you … Mes chers amis, merci bien pour tout.

———————————————

Subscribe to our FREE monthly newsletter

Do you have executive presence? What about your team? Download your free
Executive Presence Scorecard

Although some experts credit Marshall Field as the brains behind the saying, the likelihood is that it was Mr. Selfridge who put a spin on the maxim originally coined by hotelier César Ritz; “The customer is never wrong.” Bottom line, it probably doesn’t matter because the expression took root a very long time ago and I’m not so sure it has —or should have — the same power, today. Strong words.

The problem is unrealistic expectations when it comes to customer service. And it’s pervasive. One industry particularly prone to excess, or some would say abuse, is the hospitality industry where a typical cliché involves a disgruntled wine snob demanding replacement of a half-empty bottle. This is not to suggest that the motivation of every complaining “connoisseur” is deception but to point out that the responsibility for absolute and total perfection falls on restaurant owners.

A constant refrain, some would say mantra, during my courses on dining is: show respect to people in hospitality. The importance of this respect was reinforced just last month, during a stay at my son’s Ottawa home. The kitchen was under renovation and every morning the contractors arrived with hot coffee for all. We would stand around and chat until the work got underway. Towards the end of my visit and after several days of watching the kitchen take shape, I was intrigued to learn that before his renovation business, one of the senior partners had owned a banquet hall in Quebec. He was a professional chef and graduate of Le Cordon Bleu, Paris. Wow!

Here was a man with extraordinary attention to detail, a fine sense of craftsmanship, conscientious to a fault, and obviously the skills to manage and organize his construction team — I had to ask — why did he throw in the towel?
“No actually,” he said, “it was my apron. I threw it out the window!” He simply got tired of all the rude customers, their imperiousness and the endless demands on his staff. (Privately, I couldn’t help but think that impassioned homeowners are probably more inclined to make unreasonable demands than people dining out!)

Unquestionably, the customer has a right to certain expectations. Take for example, the experiences of a forty-something woman we’ll call Cindy. New to the slightest touch of grey, she was encouraged to stretch her hair-care budget and book an appointment for colour and a cut at the salon favoured by younger colleagues. Things did not go well. Cindy paid her bill and silently cursed herself for overspending — poor coverage of her grey. And then things got worse. As she tried to blow her hair dry the next morning, it was pretty obvious she’d had a bad cut. Cindy was furious.

Apparently, the referring colleagues convinced her to call the salon. The owner immediately offered to provide a refund — or correct both the colour and cut.
So back Cindy went, to give them another chance. No charge, of course. As luck would have it, disaster struck again. This time, the colour coverage was fine but the result was abysmally dark. Oh no! Cindy left in tears and by the time she got home, could barely contain herself.  I guess she had worked herself up into such a rage that she called the salon back demanding they see her immediately. And again she went back.

This time, miraculously, all went well. Perfect. Gorgeous, in fact. But the tale doesn’t end here because about six weeks later, it was time for a touch-up. Cindy called the salon and was declined an appointment. “Too much stress,” said the owner. “Thank you and good-bye.” Not my business but personally, if I had an unhappy client, right or wrong, I’d do everything in my power to regain the highest level of customer confidence. Imagine the benefits of a satisfied Cindy happily broadcasting her enthusiasm. Chacun à son gout.

Subscribe to our FREE monthly newsletter

Last year, I conducted a series of training sessions for one of the world’s largest cruise lines and delivered numerous speeches during the course.  Although I’ve enjoyed cruising vacations, this was my first professional undertaking with the cruise industry.  It was a fascinating introduction and the entire program took place at the corporate headquarters — not “on-board.”

This taste of the industry has piqued my interest; so I’m now anticipating the next phase — as a guest speaker on an actual cruise.  I think of it as a departure from my usual stomping grounds — from boardroom to on-board.  The intention is to get both a better perspective of cruise staff training needs and passenger behaviour, to ultimately develop some timely protocols for both groups.  Although a guest speaker’s responsibility is “to speak”, the social aspect is equally as important.  Hosting a table at dinner, being available to discuss informally the finer points of your speech, and being sociable, friendly and approachable are all part of the job.

Fun and glamorous?  Perhaps. What most aspiring cruise guest speakers may not realize is that the remuneration is the cruise itself, and not, I might add, first class or a stateroom with balcony.  Most guest speakers, unless they are true celebrities, are assigned an inside cabin on a low deck.  Nevertheless, I’m getting ready, thinking about some new luggage and preparing myself for un bon voyage!

——————————————————————————————–

Subscribe to our FREE monthly newsletter

Every winter right about now, I start to think about our annual March ski trip to the Canadian Rockies. This year, with Vancouver’s Olympics only a heartbeat away, thoughts of “schussing” came a little earlier.

Although I now consider myself a true Torontonian, sadly, the ski locations close to home are less than ideal. Typically, the queue for a chairlift means a minimum 20-minute wait on weekends. And whoosh, the run is so short you’re back in line two minutes later.

But over the years, I’ve realized that skiers everywhere, when forced to move at a snail’s pace as they wait in lift lines, become cold and cranky folks. Sometimes, these skiers rise to the occasion with truly nice behaviour and other times they disappoint; simply put, they’re not so nice. So with skiing on my mind, here’s a shortlist of suggestions to help keep the queue moving, minimize the impatience factor and keep everyone safe. Remember ski instructors with one or more students have priority and always move to the front of the line.

Queue do’s:

• Pick up the pole — or glove dropped by someone standing in line beside you.
• Offer to help — the parent right in front of you who’s struggling with two kiddies.
• Say hello — acknowledge the single joining you and your group for the ride up.
• Smile — when another skier apologizes for inadvertently knocking your skis.
• Step aside — to let friends ride together BEFORE you reach the loading area.

Queue don’ts:

• No butting in —never cut the line, doesn’t matter how young or old you are.
• Keep the line moving — avoid pile-ups and climb aboard, even when your friend didn’t make the same chair.
• No smoking! Please don’t lineup and light up.
• Swearing and bad language — strictly verboten.
• Keep your skis on snow — don’t step on the tails of your neighbour’s skis.

Ski instructors spend all day “on snow” — or on lifts. I recently caught up with a ski instructor for a chair-side chat and some tips to ensure a safe ride:

• Line bashing or line cutting is an accident waiting to happen. Be patient.
• Respect the lift operator and always do what he asks. Remember, he’s the expert.
• When loading, always hold your poles vertically with the inside hand. At most resorts, regulations prohibit riding with straps on.
• When loading on the outside of a 4 or 6-pack, keep your eyes away from your seatmate — and turned to the outside bar so you’re ready to grab it.

And finally, as the chair starts to climb, keep these rules in mind —
Rule #1:  Remain still. Tapping your feet together to remove snow could result in a dropped ski.
Rule #2:  Keep your gloves on! It’s a long way back down the mountain with one glove. Or none.
And finally, relax; enjoy the view.

When my husband and I are at Lake Louise, the gondolas and numerous chairs keep the lines moving but when we ski the Laurentians or Camp Fortune near Ottawa, the wait is longer and I keep myself entertained with the passing fashion show. Remember that what works for kids, may be out of place on adults — funky hats come to mind. And please, no jeans on the slopes.

Here’s an article on ski fashion I really enjoyed:

Personally I always wear a helmet and underneath, a lightweight toque —when the weather’s cold. Not great for my hair, so I always have a backup cap for lunch and après-ski. Yes, that’s me at Lake Louise, Alberta.

———————————————————————————————

How Is Your Personal and Professional Image?
Is your style congruent with your brand? Are you confused about what suits YOU best, how to manage trends, dress age appropriate?

Join me for my new Image Enhancement Course for the Professional Woman – a 4-part course where I will teach you how to create your own look of success!  It all starts on Monday Feb. 1 and continues every Monday until Feb. 22.

Details and Registration!

Subscribe to our FREE monthly newsletter

]]> http://www.corporateclassinc.com/blog/2010/01/29/destination-downhill-skiing/feed/ 3 http://www.corporateclassinc.com/blog/2010/01/18/end-of-2009-%e2%80%94-christmas-in-paris/ http://www.corporateclassinc.com/blog/2010/01/18/end-of-2009-%e2%80%94-christmas-in-paris/#comments Mon, 18 Jan 2010 07:41:45 +0000 Diane http://corporateclassinc.com/blog/?p=1146 Last month marked both the end of a dynamic year — expanding our international client base, launching both my blog and image enhancement teleseminar courses, maintaining a heightened role in community service —and a new beginning for Corporate Class. In early December, just before the holiday frenzy began in earnest, we moved our offices to 60 Bloor Street West, Suite 1100.

With all this activity, I welcomed the idea of an interlude before embarking on my 2010 journey. What could be more perfect than Christmas in Paris?

Although I’d been to Paris before, this was my first Christmas celebration in the magical City of Lights and I can truly say everything sparkled —from the shimmering streetlights to the magnificent chandeliers illuminating the city’s finest dining rooms. And what better time to visit this world capital of gastronomy!

On Christmas Eve, we attended Mass at Notre Dame Cathedral and then went to dinner at the Hotel de Crillon’s historic restaurant, overlooking Place de la Concorde. A talented pianist played throughout the evening and despite the romantic setting and glamorous atmosphere, I was disappointed by the absence of Christmas music. When we made our request, the pianist explained that he rarely played this genre but would do his best and he did in fact oblige us with a beautiful rendition of White Christmas. But — I’m still puzzled by his limited repertoire for a Christmas Eve performance. Maybe everyone’s had enough by the time December 24 arrives and perhaps I’m alone when it comes to hearing Christmas music, especially on Christmas Eve?

As an inveterate shopper, I headed out on December 26 expecting to find the famous Paris sales or “soldes” I’d encountered at summer’s end on previous visits. Not so. Strict government regulations dictate when merchandise can go on sale in France and as luck would have it, January 6 was the scheduled start day for this season.
Information about the Paris timetable for sales

Happily, I didn’t leave Paris empty-handed. While we were exploring Montmartre, I discovered an absolute gem — a fabulous fabric shop — PARIS TISSUS, 15 Rue de Steinkerque, 75018 Paris, France. (Tel: 01 42 54 33 51. E-mail paristissus@noos.fr) I met the owner, Rolland Brami and was thrilled to find an unusual cashmere and mink fabric with a subtle sheen, thanks to the mink, and a silk print by designer Robert Cavalli.

Rolland chatted with us about his business; he’s also a fabric designer of considerable renown. His red Chantilly lace and matching silk satin, with crystal beading, were selected by Dallas clothing designer Michael Faircloth for Laura Bush’s 2001 Inaugural gown. Rolland said that although he was truly proud of his accomplishment, he didn’t feel it was the best choice of colour for Mrs. Bush. I agreed!

Every day began with freshly squeezed orange juice and warm croissants. Lunch destinations varied from bistros and brasseries to the sumptuous assortment of delicacies at Bon Marché Épicerie. Very loosely translated, this is the delicatessen counter at the Bon Marché department store but in reality it’s a gourmet’s paradise. At every restaurant meal, a cheese course with numerous selections preceded dessert, often a deliciously rich pastry. Dinner was frequently fish — always eaten with the special fish fork and knife, long out of favour with North Americans, that the French reserve for fish. The other side of the coin, however, is that France dispensed with bread and butter plates years ago — even in the finest restaurants. And speaking of fine restaurants, here’s a look at Hotel De Crillon’s New Year’s Eve menu. Regrets I can’t comment — we’d left for home.

Alors, following a wonderful week, I’m happy to be back and have already embraced 2010. I have my business plan in hand and my goals are well laid out — I’m excited about the New Year.

And I hope you are, too. I invite you to share with us how we can serve you through our blog and newsletters.

Happy New Year!

(Note that you can now have our blog posts delivered to your Inbox by clicking on the Subscribe link on the right side of this page.)

———————————————————————————————

How Is Your Personal and Professional Image?
Is your style congruent with your brand? Are you confused about what suits YOU best, how to manage trends, dress age appropriate?

Join me for my FREE, 55 minute pre-training class:  Style for Women Virtual 4-part course where I will share tips on how to create your own look of success!

Tuesday, January 26, 2010, 3:30 pm Eastern, 12:30 pm Pacific
Tuesaday January 26, 2010, 9:00 pm Eastern, 3:00 pm Pacific

Register Now!

Subscribe to our FREE monthly newsletter