How do you define competition?

In this economic climate, it seems that many small business owners have become not only more aware of their personal and business expenses, but also of their competition. However, what is defined classically as your “competition” may in fact be your best ally.


Just after 1 year of starting our web store, Thriving Ink is preparing to open our first retail store in our hometown. It is seriously the most excited I have been since I opened my first Pump It Up! We will carry not only our line of art tees, but other independent brands, jewelry accessories and trendy resale as well. Wish us luck!

We are situated in the historic downtown area of Pleasanton (think Norman Rockwell), just off Main Street. There are 40 apparel shops within a couple blocks, and 4 of them are exclusively resale boutiques. So, why would I add resale to my retail mix when there are already so many like-minded shops in such a small area? Well, because I don’t see the other shops as competition; rather, I see them as opportunities: opportunities to co-op limited advertising dollars into larger marketing efforts, opportunities to share ideas, opportunities to refer business to neighboring stores, all of which ultimately will bring an improved shopping experience to the customers.

In a recessionary climate such as ours now, statistics show customers will forsake whatever loyalty you may have fostered in favor of the best deal. There’s no way to combat this reality, so the best we can do is to at least bring the customer to our neck of the woods and to keep them here. This goal is best served through cooperation.

Take this time to build relationships with merchants and neighboring businesses. Not only will you make new friends, but you may just realize how beneficial working together may be.

Support me in the 2009 StartupNation Leading Moms in Business Competition

Support me in the 2009 StartupNation Leading Moms in Business Competition

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What is YOUR story?

I had a nice thing happen to me this morning. I received an email from an author who wanted to talk to me about writing an essay for her new book. The women explained in her letter that she felt that that this book might be a good place for me to tell my story.

I feel as though I haven’t told many people my ‘story’. Why? Well, if you google my name, you can read my 'story' in several magazines and newspapers. Why tell it again? Well, frankly, it isn’t the type of thing that you go and shout from the rooftops. We all have our own lives and our own stories. I feel sometimes so engrossed in my own life, that the last thing I want to do is read about someone else’s ‘story’.

In 2008, I realized that it was time to tell people who want to hear a little more about myself, my struggles, victories and personal battles that I have had as I launched Pump It Up, the Inflatable Party Zone from a single birthday facility to a $70 million year corporation. First off, I didn’t do it alone. At my side every step of the way was my wonderful husband, Ron and my three amazing kids, and of course, God. My partner, Terry Dillenburg was my anchor and the best business partner that I think anyone could ask for. It wasn’t always easy for the two of us, but we survived and thrived. The staff that we assembled were the most passionate people anyone could ever meet. Passion fuels any dream.

As I continue my blog, I will begin to open more of myself to my friends and share many of the struggles and victories, big and small that I have encountered, and are still currently dealing with in my life. Success doesn't necessarily breed success, however experience and guidance certainly helps! Therefore, I am doing this in hopes that someone, anyone, can take something away from by blog, that will better prepare them for the challenges and triumphs of being a woman in business. 

What is your Dream?

As I sit this morning, waiting in anticipation for Inauguration Day, I am taking a moment to think of Martin Luther King. He had a dream. His dream was one that, at the time of his famous speech, must have seemed like an impossible goal to accomplish. His dream wasn't the type of dream, however, that he was going to keep to himself. Mr. King had the ability to speak. He had the ability to inspire those around him with his dream. 

What is your dream? How are you going to change this year? How will you inspire others with your passion and determination for success to achieve YOUR dream?

I have some friends who keep their dreams and goals to themselves. Personally, I feel the more I share my goals and dreams with other like-minded people, the more easily I see that change can actually occur. 

Perhaps this year, you can make it a goal to tell as many friends, families and associates your dreams and aspirations. Then perhaps, change will transpire in YOUR life!

Change Has Come...

Today we have witnessed history. The first African American President has been elected to office. As Obama said in his speech last evening, “We Have Come So Far”. We HAVE come SO far. What did it take for the American people to get out in droves to vote? America has not had such a high voter turnout since women were given the right to vote! How exciting is that?? I believe that Barack’s message has allowed us to fall in love with him, with his vision, with our neighbors, and with our country all over again. His message has re-energized our otherwise, let’s face it, somewhat apathetic political interest and helped us all to regain a sense that just maybe everything is going to be all right.

So, as businesspeople, what are we going to do with this newfound energy, hope and confidence in the future of our country? I, for one will look to our youth. Having my new business, Thriving Ink Clothing Company, revolve around college communities has allowed me to see the same kids who used to work part-time at Pump It Up franchises and their peers, now becoming involved in their communities and their world. I can’t help but be impressed by the youth these days, just as I have been all these years with Pump It Up. I was proud of them as young employees, and now I am proud of them as young adults. Many have very defined political views and goals. These young voters stood in lines here in Austin for 2 hours to vote! Now that is impressive to me. It is our job to help these youth continue to harness their passion for a better count

ry by mentoring them, leading by example in the realm of public service, volunteering, and teaching our children and others that we touch, to speak up and be heard. After this election, these young kids now know that they have a voice. Let’s encourage them to use it. Who knows, you might be employing the future President of the United States. If that were the case, what would you want them to remember about you as a mentor?