Between Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and blogs (to name a few), all of us are building friendships and business relationships online. And sometimes there are times when we want to share things with our new contacts…like a thank you for writing something nice about us or a book we just finished reading that we know our contact will enjoy. The problem is that they are someone we’ve met online. And sharing our house address may not be the smartest thing to do.

Talk about holiday spirit! I just had to share Imagination UK’s stunning office lighting display. If that doesn’t get you humming a holiday tune, I don’t know what will!

This is a very simple yet powerful interview with graphic designer Elike Konig of Hort. I really do believe that every person in a creative industry {and beyond} can learn from his perspective. Take a few minutes and watch this video…

Some key lessons:

• It’s OK to play in business.
• Experimentation is paramount. Don’t do something you’ve done before.
• Understand your weaknesses and accept them…everyone has them.
• Build a team that compliments you.
• Don’t create drones and clones, let your team bring their individuality to their work.
• Ask to be surprised. <-- One of my favorite points.
• Share your ideas. It’s easy to close off from sharing for fear of someone stealing your idea.
• Ideas build. Collaboration is king.
• Think before you design.
• If someone criticizes you, take it as a positive. Someone has taken their time to provide feedback because they want to see you become better and stronger.

I was inspired by Better Taste Than Sorry. Thank you for sharing this video.

Lara McCulloch-Carter
Author of the Special Event blog ready2spark
Director of Marketing – Regal Tent Productions
Past-President – ISES Toronto
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How fab are these gorgeous silhouette wood coasters from Etsy seller peppersprouts? $25USD for a set of 4!

Lara McCulloch-Carter
Author of the Special Event blog ready2spark
Director of Marketing – Regal Tent Productions
Past-President – ISES Toronto
. Follow me on Twitter
. Connect with me on LinkedIn
. Become my Peep at EventPeeps
. Befriend me at Events Network

I’ve been playing around with Google Sidewiki for a few months now. If you’re not familiar with this tool, Google launched it back in September. The idea is that anyone can contribute their thoughts to any website – in essence turning any website into a public forum.

Have you ever wanted to get the look that professional pastry chefs spend hours achieving? Ticings let you do just that. An edible peel and stick applique that can be applied to cupcakes, cookies, cakes and brownies, Ticings give you the hand crafted look without the years of experience and effort.

I am absolutely in love with Australia’s own Le Cupcake – a delicious boutique that creates one-of-a-kind cakes and cupcakes. I first came across them while lurking on Flickr. Proprietor Kylie Lambert has the most delightful photography of her works of art and it was her edible toppers that made my jaw drop. A personal favorite are her fabulous cows (top right)!