Please Join Us Here...

We've moved our blog onto our website to keep it simple and fresh for you all. Please follow us over and re-set your bookmarks and we'll be happy to keep you up-to-date on all things Bodacious!

http://www.bodacious.ca/blog/

Mistle Totes - Love These!

This manual umbrella is sized to fit almost any purse or pocket. Opens to 38-in., but folds to a small 6-in. Makes a great gift. Lots of funky prints and colours - boxed for easy gift-giving.

Item of the Day!!!

http://pooktoque.com/

What can we say? Silly, fun and comfy. Great gifts for that hard to buy for guy in your life!
Now available at Bodacious...

Fashion Show at the Gibsons Rec. Centre

Thanks to Kim and Carleen for helping us out at the fashion show this past Saturday! These gals know how to Work IT! Also, thanks to Verna and the fabulous Garage models for sharing the stage.

You're Invited!

Asked and Answered...

Dear Chatelaine Magazine,
Re: Urban Jungle Fashion Feature - September 2009

As a long-time subscriber to Chatelaine, I value and appreciate the way the magazine highlights different perspectives and points of view. However, as a size 18 curvy and petite (5'2") woman, I am often disappointed by your fashion features. I was curious when I saw that you were starting to include a "plus-size" option but instantly dismayed to see that your "plus-size" choices usually go up to a size 16 (size 15 in this issue) or XL (typically the same size range of the other body styles you feature).
Any modern woman knows that the definition of "plus-size" means sizes that at least go up to 24. I know these options exist. I own them and wear them. Here in Vancouver, many of the more popular local designers have learned the benefit of being inclusive in their sizing.
I believe that to inspire women to wear, be creative with and enjoy fashion, you need to give them realistic options. A size 20 woman may also be "pear" shaped. A "petite" woman (usually defines height, not size) may be a size 2 or 18.
We've all heard the fashion rules so many times we could probably list them off in our sleep. As a magazine that celebrates all women from all perspectives and walks of life, isn't it time to start encouraging us all to break those rules, take risks and realize that fashion can be fun and liberating? Aren't those the women that we all notice and admire anyway?

Lorna Ketler

reply...
Lorna,
Thank you so much for your letter. I just wanted to personally apologize for the misunderstanding. The linen pant is actually available in a size 14–22 and the jacket was as well with a long sleeve. This was obviously an error on our part and by no means did we mean to offend or patronize our readers.
We'll do our best to avoid the issue in the future and again, I apologize.
Kate

-- Kate Daley
Assistant Style Editor
Chatelaine magazine
One Mount Pleasant Road, 8th Floor
Toronto, ON M4Y 2Y5T:
416.764.3954F: 416.764.2431
www.chatelaine.com

We love our Bodacious Style Experts!

A letter received from a happy customer...way to go, Nikki!!!

Barb and Lorna
I was in your store for the first time with a friend of mine a couple of weeks ago. My friend was looking for a dress for her upcoming wedding. We had the most wonderful experience in your store. Nikki was helpful, honest, knew the stock and how it fit. She gave us excellent service with no pressure, and had no problem holding two dresses and a skirt while we went to get a bite to eat so that my friend could clear her head and decide which dress she wanted. Nikki was as happy and helpful to accommodate that request as she had been with everything else. I have to tell you what a delight it was to be able to walk out of the store, having not purchased anything and be treated in the same welcoming manner as we had been treated upon entering. We returned to the store about a half hour later, and my friend purchased both dresses and the skirt. Your store is beautiful and you have a real Gem in Nikki! I know that we will be back.

Barb's Wedding Blog

Chaos rules at the moment. I've decided to start a cleanse. It's one I've used before and it's gentle and predictable. I'm glad some things are still predictable. The details are starting to take me over with 15 days to the "Big Day" and I am both obsessed and overwhelmed, at least that's how I feel right now. My fiance and I have started scheduling "meetings" to discuss the financial part because you want to be prepared for those type of conversations, don't you think?

I am lucky to have friends and relatives with various skills and straight thinking, orderly heads because my head is full up. I'll be making some phone calls in the next week to ask for help with certain things that simply escape me. Things like the schedule of the wedding day, in detail, heck, I'm not even sure who walks down the isle first. I'm pretty sure it's not me. The thing is, when it's all said and done, I'll be able to help someone else plan their wedding because I'm learning so much. For now, I will rely on my friends and family who have done this before.

Right now I am finding much inspiration at this site http://greenweddingshoes.blogspot.com/ .

I am a lucky girl to have so many talented folks in my life. Hope I can repay the debt one day. Right now I'm not afraid to ask for help. Lord knows I need it.

Feel free to impart your words of wisdom. I'm all ears...

SALE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Big sale at Bodacious this week - weekend! Follow us on Twitter or Facebook for early discounts!

Wedding Shoes

I am 5'4" and my intended is 6'2" so I knew I wanted a bit of a heel but something I can walk on grass with. Finding the perfect wedding shoes was turning out to be a bit of a challenge. Lucky for me there are a LOT of shoe sales on right now so accompanied by my soon to be Mother-in-law and a few hours to kill we hit the big sale at Freedman's. The first pair I tried were fabulous and the exact colours in my dress but alas, they were far to high to walk in. I had to let them go. I finally settled on the pair above by BCBG and I am happy with my choice. The snake skin look is much more subtle than the photo and they have a slightly metallic sheen to them. Best of all these shoes are comfortable!
That little heal is going to make it that much easier for my man and I to seal the deal with a kiss. I'm all about making things easier and feeling beautiful means no sore feet.
Oh yes, they where on sale too!
Wedding shoes-check.

Barb's Bodacious Wedding Bash!

Hello Bodacious Babes, it's Barb here!


Yes it's true, wedding madness is upon us, especially since we hit the one month mark yesterday. Everything is speeding up and the excitment is high. I am lucky to have the Best Bridesmaid Ever and she is doing her best to keep me on track (yes, there is a shower in the works). Today I am picking up his suit and the rings having a decorating meeting and a meet up with my photographer/garden fluffer!


Our wedding will be taking place in the back yard of our home. Lorna and I will be hooking up with a close friend/amazing artist and one of the most creative people I know, to figure out the decorations this afternoon. The decorating theme is paper. Paper garland and lanterns, balls and whatever else we can think of. The Mexican art form of Papel Picado is the inspiration and the latest edition of Martha Stewart weddings has some fantastic paper projects too. Once again it is my friends who are giving me the most inspiration by being so enthusiastic and excited to help out. It's a bit overwhelming actually. All of the help, the gifts, the skills, the time that people are being so generous with is something that I need to accept with grace. I sometimes feel like I'm not worthy. The truth is, we are all worthy and learning to just say Thank You from the heart is often enough. God, I hope it's enough. lol


Check back here daily, I will be letting you know how my custom made wedding dress is coming along, we'll talk about shoes, we have a special feature relating to flowers too! I will be using The Flower Factory for my flowers and owner Gloria is set to be our next Bold and Audacious Woman interview. Stay tuned for that right here!


If it sounds like I'm all over the map it's because I am. Bear with me and let's see if we can make some sense of all of this wedding stuff.


We would love to hear from you too.

Getting Ready for Fall...

Well...it's been a crazy time around here. Life is great in my new hometown. I'm trying to figure out how to best utilize my time with the new commuting lifestyle which means setting up all Bodacious appointments to fit in to 2 days a week, working my shifts at the Gibson store while excitedly preparing for our big Bodacious move into the larger location in Molly's Lane. Oh, and Barb is getting married in 1 month today. AND we're *this* close to having our new website up and running with actual designs for sale to the world! Barb will fill you in on wedding events and I'll try to fill in the gaps as far as what else is new and exciting!
One of the great benefits of having the store and knowing some fabulous designers is that we are each having our dresses made for us. Mine by the lovely and talented Cheryl Densky of Schaart Clothing and Barb by our very own and also lovely and talented Brandy McQueen! Unfortunately I missed my fitting yesterday but can't wait to go tomorrow for my first try on.
We've almost completed our 9th year here at Bodacious and I'm glad to be able to say that I still feel blessed every day to have such a great space filled with talented designers and staff who get our concept and move it forward!
How's your summer going?
xoxo
Lorna

Hot Weather Public Service Announcement!

Wilting?

Melting?

Not sleeping at night?

Feeling totally pooped?

Well, you`re either in love - or you`re having a heatwave!

creampuff by gg sends you some hot tips for staying cool:

1. Choose water over sugary or alcoholic drinks

2. Put your fan on the floor – it will blow cool air in & hot air out (cool air falls, hot air rises)

3. Have a cool bath before bedtime – it will help lower your core temperature & you’ll sleep better

4. Drink a small amount of Gatorade, Powerade or unflavoured baby Pedialyte (if sugars or salts are a concern check with your doctor)

5. Take it easy – don’t rush around – shorten your “to-do” list

6. Visit an air-conditioned place during the day – like a theatre or a mall

7. Put a freezer ice-pack in a pillowcase & take it to bed with you

8. Wear creampuffs by gg – girlie boxer shorts!

Staying cool in ‘blue camoflower’ creampuffs!

I LOVE a Parade!!!

Much fun was had by all - at the Sea Cavalcade Parade this past weekend. Doesn't Big Momma look cute all dressed up?

Check This Out!

The lovely ladies at Principessa have brought us another fun and functional new product!

The bag is perfect for toting lunches, books, wine, workout gear etc. and is recyclable as well. The Borsetta is multi purpose with multi benefits as $1 from the sale of the bag will be donated to Breast Cancer Research (just like the water bottle) and helps consumers to reduce, reuse and recycle all in a chic and stylish way!

Delta's Big Attendants Unable to Wear New Uniform...

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/item.aspx?type=blog&ak=68494210.blog
Check out this article. What do you think?

Gibsons Store - keeps growing!

Why stores are cutting back on plus-size clothes

Why stores are cutting back on plus-size clothes
Here's a story I found today on financialpost.com
This one brings up so many issues for me as a retailer and manufacturer of "plus size" (their term, not ours) clothing. I can't help but find it annoying that it's the same old arguments being dragged out of the closet over and over. I especially find this paragraph ridiculous...

Cost is also a factor. Because they require more fabric, larger sizes are more expensive to manufacture. "The cost of clothing is disproportionately in the materials and not the labour, due to the shift in production to low-wage countries, which means that it is going to be more expensive to produce clothing for large-sized women, and more resources will be tied up in garments on the racks," notes Susan Ashdown, a professor in the Department of Fiber Science & Apparel Design at Cornell and a leading researcher on improving apparel fit. Imagine the fury that would greet prices that went up with dress size.
First of all, what's the difference between a size 0 and a size 12 in fabric usage? Quite a lot actually. To suggest that we can only "Imagine the fury..." if prices went up with dress sizes is so insulting. The cost of clothing being manufactured does go up slightly as the amount of fabric increases in larger sizes AND in smaller sizes. Don't you think that the average price is decided upon in small sizes and a size 0 is cheaper to make than a size 12? And furthermore, let's be clear, larger women DO pay more for their clothes already. Imagine the fury!!
We are all paying the "fat tax" when we shop, being told that we have to pay more and then receive less styling so the sizing fits more people makes me feel less than special, how about you?
There's a lot of food for thought there but I still can't help wondering why, if they are trying to be respectful, the photograph accompanying the article is of a larger woman, obviously working out in work out clothes including under boob sweat stains and tight clothing and yet they cut off her head so you can't see her face.Why not show her face and give some dignity to the larger woman's image?? I think her body looks fit and strong but what is the photo trying to illustrate?
I am so sick of these type of photos that are used with every single "news" story concerning larger sized women.
Read the article for yourself and let us know what you think.
Use the comments section below.

Shared via AddThis

Spare Soles Now at Bodacious!

Spare Soles are compact, rollable, foldable, take-anywhere flats that fit in the smallest of purses or pockets. Perfect for those moments when your feet have had enough but you haven't. Spare Soles have a stretchy fashionable upper that accommodates tired and swollen feet. The sole is a skid resistant water-proof bottom. Spare Soles are available in four sizes and assorted colors. So go ahead and kick off those heels!

Bonnie Recommends...

Hi there Bodacious women!
I am sure that many of you are familiar with Sarah Haskins on current.com, but in case you aren't, check her out. Sarah is the star of "Target: Women," a hilarious and savvy commentary on how the media portrays women. She challenges those stereotypes that really get under our skin. The topics of "Target: Women" vary from women's supposed love of yogurt to the depiction of women on women's television networks. There are times that watching her makes my laugh so hard that I cry. I've put the link to her latest creation below. Enjoy!
http://current.com/items/90157350_sarah-haskins-in-target-women-story-time.htm

Bodacious Bonnie!

Let me introduce you...

Bold and Audacious Women Interview - take 3!

We've had the pleasure of working with Danielle several times in the last couple of years and this woman kicks ass! A very direct, wise, powerful and refreshing inspiration. Enjoy her interview and check out her website when you have a chance...

name / biz info/website, etc...
I'm Danielle LaPorte. Tho' my birth name is Veronica Danielle (long story about how it came down to Danielle). I created http://www.whitehottruth.com/ because self-realization rocks (and because I'm writing a book with the same title. BTW, my first book is Style Statement; Live By Your Own Design.) On a weekly basis I do "Fire Starter sessions" with entrepreneurs -- a bit of tough love, some intuition and a big dose of start-up and social media acumen.
favourite part of your body?
My eyes. Especially with some black liner and Voluminous Mascara.

what was the last thing that made you laugh uncontrollably?
My incredible farting child has impeccable comedic timing.

3 words/phrases your friends would use to describe you/your style?
A friend emailed me last week and described my style as: "rockstar goddess with a swanky exotic backbone." Hell yeah!

fashion/personal inspiration?
Georgia O'Keefe...her austerity is divine. I also happen to like Geishas, monks and a lot of what Donna Karan does that is NOT black.

favourite tv show/movie?
The Piano. All time fav. Close runner up is Baz Lurhman's Romeo & Juliet.

sexy jeans or a flirty dress?
How about...flirty Kimono.

heels or flats?
Shit-kicking boots. Well heeled and as pointy as possible.

gotta ask - top 5 people you'd invite to dinner (alive or dead)?
Leonard Cohen, Jesus Christ, Clarissa Pinkola Estes, Women Who Run With The Wolves, Oprah, John O'Donahue, late amazing theologian and poet

favourite colour combination?
I adore the desert turquoise with espresso-brown flecks - but I'd never actually wear that colour combo. In terms of clothing, my favourite combo is mocha with...more mocha.

phrase/quote that inspires you/makes your heart soar?
"Mama!" Only when my five year old is saying it, running to me for a hug -- doesn't have the same effect from construction workers.

piece of clothing that makes you feel sexy?
my shawl from India.

most recent clothing purchase?
brown flouncy tee from H&M.

what's on the 'i need to have it' list for spring/summer?
cork platforms and RayBan aviators.

upcoming projects?
I'm doing Fire Starter gigs in fourteen cities between now and the fall. I am crazy. Also, launching a stationery line.

final words?
Talk is cheap. Love is a verb. Authenticity is magnetic. And while I have your attention, check out: http://www.whitehottruth.com/

Ps...I love you Bodacious ladies. Thanks for a great interview.
Aww, thanks!

-- Danielle LaPorte
http://www.whitehottruth.com/
follow: http://twitter.com/WhiteHotTruth
cell: 604.418.8811
ENTREPRENEURS ARE HOT: "My Fire Starter Session with Danielle is the best investment I have ever made. Ever."- Sarah Bray, Web developer, Virginia Beach

creampuff by gg @ Bodacious!

For a saucier way to protect from chub rub, you've gotta try these new bloomers from local fashionista, gg! creampuff by gg - now available at Bodacious!

MORE Stop Staring Dresses at Bodacious!

Pretty sexy!

Ticket Giveaway!!

Our good friend Lousie Green & Body Exchange present

Comedy For The Cure

Raising funds for Team Diabetes

Thursday May 28th 2009

6:30 pm

Heritage Hall (3102 Main Street, Vancouver BC)

This evening includes comedians, nibbles, a cash bar and a silent auction!

The tickets are a $30 value each and we have tickets (2 each) to give away to the first two people to email us bodaciouslifestyles@gmail.com

Tickets can be picked up at our shop.

Make sure to check out all the great programs available through Body Exchange and check out their blog too.

A Tribute to Treice...

Yesterday, Barb's very dear friend, Treice Backs lost her battle with cancer. As you can see by reading her blog, she was a bright light, a wonderful mother and friend and also a fearless fighter for the truth, for fairness and for healing. She leaves behind her loving husband, Kelly and a young son, Max who will miss her deeply. On Mother's Day (this Sunday) we at Bodacious will be donating a portion of our sales to help support the family through this sad time. If you care to make a donation directly, you can do so through her blog. Any financial support will assist Kelly in taking the time to do what's best for him and Max during this next phase of their lives. Thanks for listening and caring. We wish you all a love-filled day! http://treicebacks.blogspot.com/

No - You Stop Staring!

Yay! They're finally here. We've been admiring the Stop Staring dresses online for years and we've finally found a local source to bring them into our shop. Come in soon for the best selection. More items arriving every month.
Please note - their 1x, 2x, 3x means 14/16, 16/18, 18/20

Can you help?

Department of History

University of Waterloo

PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR HISTORICAL RESEARCH ON BEING OVERWEIGHT

We are looking for people to interview who may have considered themselves overweight at any point in their lives before 1980.
As a participant in this study, you would be asked to participate in a tape-recorded interview. Your participation would involve one session of about two hours at a location of mutual convenience.

Participation is completely voluntary.

For more information about this study, or to volunteer for this study, please contact:

Alyshia BestardResearch Assistant

(519) 888-4567 ext. 33342

aostrom@uwaterloo.ca

-or-
Dr.Wendy MitchinsonHistory Department

(519) 888-4567 ext. 33342

wlmitchi@uwaterloo.ca

This study has been reviewed by, and received ethics clearance through, the Office of Research Ethics, University of Waterloo.

Getting married this summer?

Are you getting married this summer? I am. I'm down to my last 5 months of planning and feel like I'm a little behind. I don't want to get into huge amounts of debt but I want to make the day as special as possible.
Where do you scrimp and where do you splurge? If you've already had you wedding I think we would all love to hear any snippets of wisdom you can give us up and coming brides. Where did you get your dress? Who sells great plus sized wedding dresses? How about the cake? Did you find the perfect venue. Did you spend tons of money or did you do it frugally? Is there anything you would change now that you know better?
Us brides-to-be need to know. Why not help a girl out?

Check out the Vancouver Sun Today!

Thanks to Lucy Hyslop for writing this feature in today's Style section of the Vancouver Sun!

Check it out!

Bold and Audacious Women Interview - Take 2

We would like to introduce you to Karen Henrich!

Here's a little story for you

Once upon a time, two North American girlfriends went to Paris in search of fun and adventure. Day after glorious day and night after glorious night they frolicked happily in the City of Light. Magic unfolded as they strolled down grand boulevards and medieval streets, feasted like Queens, partied like Impressionist painters and encountered delightful Parisians and handsome men (wink). Even the occasional haughty indifference of a waiter charmed them so. Early one morning, as the girlfriends returned to their hotel after partying the entire night, the hotel clerk smiled at them and said in the Frenchest of accents . . .“In France, we call this a ‘nuit blanche’ – a ‘white night’. Bonne journée mesdemoiselles. . . ” After returning home, the girls lived happily ever after with their wondrous Parisian memories and wanted to share their delightful experiences with women across the land. Thus is how Nuit Blanche Tours began . . .
Sound like a fairy tale? . . . well it’s not . . . this is Nuit Blanche Tours . . .

Check out the links below to see what else Karen is up to. She's a busy woman and you must check out her Chic Walk shopping walks!

Just how busy is Karen? She says, "Two international businesses and I live on two continents: Canada and France. It’s why I don’t sleep much." Who needs to sleep when you're having this much fun?

http://www.nuitblanchetours.com/ - Tours for Girls Who Want to Have Fun in Paris (girlfriend getaways)

http://www.chicwalks.com/ - Step-by-step Shopping Walks. For Fashion Capitals. Worldwide.

karen@chicwalks.com

Favourite part of your body? Upper arms, which are still muscular from former extreme-sport days

3 words/phrases your friends would use to describe you/your style?

Joie-de-vivre

Morning person or not?

One of my company names is Nuit Blanche Tours, the first two words in French literally mean “white night,” meaning that you stay up all night because you’re having so much fun. So, I am not a morning person, unless I have stayed up all night as a result of a nuit blanche. Please don’t invite me to early morning meetings.

Favourite tv show/movie?HouseMovie:

Unfaithful (the American version with Diane Lane, Richard Gere and French hunk, Olivier Martinez

Knee high socks or full tights?

Neither, fish net stockings!

Sexy jeans or a flirty dress?

Both

Heels or flats?

Heels as high as they go, while still allowing walking on cobblestones without breaking my ankles/neck

Gotta ask - top 5 people you'd invite to dinner (alive or dead)?

1) My dad, who left us on earth but is still very much here in spirit

2) My incredibly wonderful, sexy fiance

3) The Obamas, the whole family, who doesn’t love them?

4) Meg Whitman, CEO of eBay

5) Leonard Cohen

Phrase/quote that inspires you?

Tout est possible (all is possible)

Piece of clothing that makes you feel sexy?

Long gloves that go to the elbow

Most recent clothing purchase?

No purchases but lots of voyeurism at Vancouver Fashion Week

Recently upcoming projects?

To add other fashion cities to chicwalks.com; already in progress are detailed shopping walks for San Francisco and LA, then NYC and London

Final words?

We're always on the look-out for fashionista journalist-types in other cities!

Who's Celebrating Curves???

I just discovered this site and fell in love with all the beautiful curvy images! Hope you enjoy them too.
http://www.artmozaik.com/Curves.html

Bold and Audacious Women Interview - Take 1

I'd like to introduce you to...

Miranda Lievers - owner of Blue Olive Photography. The first of many interviews we will share with you featuring strong, independent and Bodacious women. Enjoy...

favourite part of your body?... My smile! Is that a body part?

3 words/phrases your friends would use to describe you/your style?... I have consulted - they tell me Sassy, Passionate, and Colourful

fashion/personal inspiration? Life is for living and what I wear has to agree with that… I go for comfortable and practical, try to never forget the accessories, and never *ever* take myself too seriously

favourite tv show/movie? For no thought required end of day winding down - Grey's and Gossip Girl. For movies that make you angry and joyous and cry - Away from Her, Kolya, Across The Universe, Atonement….

knee high socks or full tights? Definitely full tights, and in some sort of fun colour

sexy jeans or a flirty dress? Dress me up! I never used to be a dress girl but now that I have a few that fit me well (Bodacious, of course!) I wear them all the time

heels or flats? Definitely flats - I'm just not that coordinated, I think it's best that I remain as close to the ground as possible

gotta ask - top 5 people you'd invite to dinner (alive or dead)? I thought about this for a long time. On different days I would have different answers, but today I'd love to sit down with my grandparents when they were my age and all of my great grandparents (whom I never got to meet) when they had the wisdom that old age can bring. I'd ask them to tell me their stories.

favourite colour combination? At this minute, Black & Turquoise. This changes multiple times per day.

phrase/quote that inspires you? I will be who I will to be, I am who I have willed to become

piece of clothing that makes you feel sexy? I finally bought a real corset, something I've wanted for a long time. I think they are fantastic for making you feel great about yourself

most recent clothing purchase? A cute retro print shirt with a keyhole neckline, perfect for work dressed up or with jeans for a beer

what's on the 'i need to have it' list for spring? A decent light fitted jacket, probably black but with a bright colourful liner inside!

upcoming projects? Entreprenessa Magazine! I'm starting a magazine for creative entrepreneurs, and I am so incredibly excited for it. Get involved at http://www.entreprenessa.com/

final words? Simply, never take life too seriously and take a minute every day to be thankful for everything incredible in your life. Focus on what you can change rather than what you can't and keep smiling. Everything else will fall into place. Cheers!

Great and inspirational words, Miranda! Thanks so much for being our first Bold and Audacious Woman interview!

How to Look Good Naked!

Last night I watched two of my favourite shows - Dancing with the Stars and How to Look Good Naked. Both make me feel encouraged, make me laugh and show different bodies as beautiful. (I would have liked to see Steve Wozniak get voted off before Belinda Carlisle though!)

I LOVE Gok Wan and I know many many women who would love to have this witty, encouraging and stylish fella as their new best friend.

These shows continue to challenge the 'norm' of body type and size. Gok shows women - my size!!! - naked! and...beautiful! If you haven't seen the show, please check it out and let us know what you think.

Calling ALL Vancouver Entrepreneurs!

Press Release
Register
CRAVE business PRESENTS:
SHOP SYMPOSIUM 09

take a day off to work "on" your business, not in it.
Calling all Vancouver entrepreneurs!
This is a must attend event if you want to grow your business.
CRAVEbusiness is a social and resource network for stylish innovators who own their own business or dream of starting one. Through one-on-one consulting, workshops, and red-carpet access to sage and savvy experts, CRAVEbusiness gives you a fresh take on designing your work life.
All registrants will have the opportunity to submit a profile of their business to have it reviewed by a panel of experts (click here to get started).
In Spring 2009, CRAVEbusiness’s SHOP Symposium series marks its third year of providing an inspirational, educational, one-day conference designed to support independent business owners. Attendees include retailers, spa and gym owners, travel agents, yoga teachers, creatives, self-employed service providers, and consultants of different stripes.

The only conference of its kind, SHOP Symposium/09 teaches practical skills, offers wise encouragement, and builds camaraderie. This is accomplished through expert speakers, panel discussions, breakout sessions and vendors whose services support the unique needs of business owners not affiliated with large corporations or chains. “Independent businesses keep the marketplace diverse and add character and soul to our communities,” comments CRAVEbusiness founder, Melody Biringer, herself a life-long entrepreneur and independent business owner.

“Independent owners are particularly courageous. They need a community to support them, and this is the purpose of SHOP Symposium/09.”

TOPICS AND HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
• Online and Offline Marketing Strategies That Work
• Talk Back Sessions
• PR and Digital PR
• Social Networking
• Live Think Tank- Registrants can enter to win a free business evaluation by a panel of business experts
SPEAKERS INCLUDE:
• Danielle LaPorte / White Hot Truth
• Sarah Bancroft / Co-Founder & Editor in Chief VitaminDaily
• Judy Brooks / Blo Blow Dry Bar
• Jill Earthy / MomCafÉ
• Lorna Ketler and Barb Wilkins / Bodacious
• Stephen Jagger / Reachd

Event Details
VANCOUVER BC
When: Mon, March 30, 09
Time: 8am-5:30pm
Where: Vancity Theatre
Tickets: $85 USD per guest $70 USD each for two or more
Contact sherri [at] craveparty.com to become a vendor or a sponsor.

Shoes that love you??

You have to pop in and see this new line of shoes we are carrying at Bodacious. OKA b makes a lot of claims and they're all true.

• They don't just make shoes they make "shoes that love you!"




• Arch support




• Massage beads




• Reflexology




• Non-slip




• Comfortable




• Washable (in the top rack of your dishwasher!)




• Anti-Microbial




• Vegan Friendly :-)




• Recyclable

Oh yes, they are also super cute! Oprah loves them and so do we. We have lots of styles and colours in store in sizes 8-12.

Come on in a try a pair!

Today's Vancouver Woman

It's finally out!

The current issue of Today's Vancouver Woman is here and look who's on the cover. You can click on the link and read the article written by Pamela Post.

Let us know what you think!

bodaciously,

Barb and Lorna

Bodacious Business Spotlight

Maybe you've heard about boot camps but have been scared off by the military, hard-core idea of it all. Nobody really wants someone yelling in their face and making them do push-ups in the mud!

We believe in positive support and encouragement and so do these ladies. They also recognize that skinny doesn't equal healthy - and curvy doesn't mean couch potato!

Body Exchange "Plus-Size" Bootcamps now available in Vancouver.

"dedicated to the Plus Size and Beginner community; our mission is Fearless Fitness. We are here to encourage people to make the exchange to a healthier lifestyle and start their fitness journey today. We focus on a healthier lifestyle; mind, body and soul. No more fad diets! Weight loss is a great side effect of better health. Body Exchange™ has a realistic training approach; we know there is nothing worse than demoralization through fitness! Finally, you will attain fitness success. We invite you to put aside your current size, age or physical ability and change your life today."

http://bodyexchange.ca/index.html

Tell them we sent you...

Check out the Westender today for a bit of Bodacious Wisdom:)

http://www.westender.com/articles/entry/thinking-thin-fake-it-til-you-make-it
Not the title we would have chosen but we got some good words in anyway...

Luxurious Loungewear On SALE at Bodacious!

40% off these softest cottons and satin sleepwear/loungewear sets

at Bodacious now! Available up to size 18/20

FYI - we were assured when we purchased these lovely pieces that they would fit much larger and once we recieved them, were disappointed that they didn't fit our full range. Our apologies on that. We do our best for you all!

Something to do...

If you're going to be in Vancouver on Monday, March 30th, you should check out this Shop Symposium event! Barb and I are going to speak on a panel of "inspirational speakers" and there will be all sorts of great shopping, fun, inspiration - when we're all needing a bit of that! Check out their site and let us know what you think.

Local Women Bare Arms!

...and legs, and a bit of cleavage as well. So why is it that so many women are afraid to show off their upper arms? Here's what we say to women who tell us they don't do sleeveless. What's the worst thing that can happen? Someone may actually see your arms and think, " Wow, she has big arms..." chances are after this insightful comment, they will already be thinking of something to say about someone else. The thing is, we tend to forget that most people are too busy worrying about the size of their own ass to even notice yours. Once we realize that the only opinion that matters when it comes to body acceptance is our own, then we can start dressing our bodies the way we feel most comfortable. A comfortable person has a much better chance of being a confident person. It's confidence that makes us truly beautiful and sexy. Whether it's arms, knees, tummies, thighs or butts, when a woman accepts the size of all of these parts and stops thinking of herself as a series of flaws, she can finally become one big beautiful package.

bodaciously,
Barb

How times have changed...or have they?

I was inspired by Big Fat Deal's blog this morning showing a vintage ad for "chubby" kids. Great discussion there about what constituted "chubby" in those days and what we might call those sizes now.

There has been some forward movement in the media - notably "How to Look Good Naked", the Dove Campaign For Real Beauty, and a few celebrities who are curvy, proud and outspoken.

I am, however, often shocked by how little progress has been made. From the perspective of a retailer who is always looking for fun, flattering clothing to carry for you, I think you'd be surprised to learn how often those beautiful designs we get to see and order at the shows are cancelled before delivery. (dozens of times, we've received the smaller sizes and told that they decided not to produce the larger ones meaning we had to ship it all back - we are pretty much an all-or-nothing operation)

This is apparently due to lack of interest or confidence from other retailers even though we know that if we had the product in our store, you would buy it. In fact, we do have it and you do buy it. (Thanks to our extremely talented team of local designers!) We're always just looking for more!

What do you think? Are curvy, larger-sized women just used to not having a choice or a voice? Are they more apt to settle for something that covers/fits unwell?

We know that's not our customer. Our customer is beautiful, proud and confident; willing to show off her curves and strut her stuff.

And the good news is, we have sourced for you some amazing pieces from reputable suppliers (lots of dresses!!!) for spring and they will be arriving through our doors any day now.

We'd love to know what you think so feel free to post here or check out our facebook page...

Tie-Dye!

I know we mentioned this already in our last newsletter but, I just have to tell you...I tried this dress on yesterday and - I lurve it!!! It's so comfy and flattering and fun. There's only a few left so if you also lurve it - give us a call or get in here!

Treats for your Feet!

Affordable pleasures...
You may be watching your pocketbook a little more closely through these short days of January but a girls still gotta look and feel good!
Treat your toes to some style and comfort with these lovely socks. Knee highs, argyles, stripes...
Great selection available at Bodacious, of course!

Love Apples at Bodacious

Here at Bodacious we have love on our minds and we want to let you know how much you mean to us by introducing a special Valentine's gift pack from Barefoot Venus.

We have the newest scent from Barefoot Venus right here and it's called LOVE APPLES!

With red apples, exotic spices and hot cinnamon, it's Love at first smell!

We've put together seductive body oil, lotion, and moisturizing wash, added some candy hearts and cinnamon hearts and topped it off with a real vintage paper Valentine card just like you got from your sweetheart in elementary school.

Come on in and get a LOVE APPLES gift set or you can buy bottles separately.

Why not pick up a sexy frock while you're at it?

Your Valentine will be sure to thank you.

Join us on Facebook!

Well...we've finally brought Bodacious into the Facebook world. Please check out our page and become a fan. We'd love to hear your stories, feedback, inspiration. We'll keep you up to date with pix, events and a little inspiration of our own.
...celebrating your curves...

A New Baby Has Arrived!

We want to send out a big congratulations to...

our Alix and her husband, Mark on their new bundle of joy. Introducing Nigella Simone Purkis born on Tuesday, January 13th at 16:16. We wish them all the best and can't wait to meet the new little beauty!

Thoughts...

We've had some fantastic media hits lately including this weeks' CBC Living Vancouver spot. (click on the box that says - LV 09.01.12 and go to the 9 1/2 minute mark. Not super easy but we think it's worth a watch) We also just learned that we are to be on the March COVER of the new Today's Vancouver Woman (formerly known as Shared Vision). How exciting and how scary! That's pretty much an 8 1/2 by 11 shot...of us...on the COVER! Eyebrows? Check. Hair? Check. Makeup? Apparently they have 'people' for that.
As always, when we're interviewed, our biggest concern is that they 'get' us. We feel we're so much more than a retail store selling clothes. We are about celebrating women, in the moment! We are about empowering women and discouraging the negative self-talk. We are about providing clothing options for women so they can have a style of their very own. We are about promoting a full and happy lifestyle that includes comfy and stylish clothes, accessories, scents that make you smile and walk a little taller down the street.
We hope you're having a great week and have some plans to "celebrate your curves" this weekend!

Alternative Wedding Bells are ringing!

Whether you are planning a wedding or know someone who is, this just may be the event of the year. I happen to be planning an I Do this summer and the thought of all that expensive, crazy wedding stuff scares me to death. I do want an alternative to a big expensive wedding, I do want to do things a little different than most and I do need to set a date. I will set a date before January 17th and I can't wait to see what's in store for me at Vancouver's First Alternative Wedding Show!
Check out their website here and maybe we'll see you at The Heritage Hall on Saturday January 17th from 11-6?
I Do think you will enjoy it!!

Don't Miss Our Spot on CBC's Living Vancouver - TODAY!

http://www.cbc.ca/livingvancouver/
Today at 3:00 pm or online on their website after it airs.
Happy Monday all!

Bodacious SALE continues through January!

Just in at Bodacious...
New stock of Bodacious Wrap and Shift Dresses and Tunic Tops! Check out the Hot New Chianti Colour.

SALES this week (January 6-11th), we're offering...

Bodacious 40% off selected pieces

Mitzylaneous 40% off

Togs 20% off (regular priced items) and 10% off (sale priced items)

Schaart 20% off (stock on floor only)

T.M. Skirts 60% off

Novelti Coats 50% off

Stationary & Journals 20% off

Puli and Items designs tops and blouses 50%

Diane Kennedy 50% off (Wool pieces only)

Barefoot Venus 20% off Winter Hats, Gloves & Scarves 20% off

All Christmas Merchandise 50% off

January 12-18 - keep those legs warm and fashionable by picking up some Hosiery at 25% off! Free gift this week with every purchase over $100.
January 19-25 - For those lucky enough to get away or if you're starting the new year with a swim at the rec centre, we're giving you 25% off all swimsuits!
January 26 - February 1 - By now there's hope of a thaw and it's time to think of spring so we're offering all Jewelry at 30-50% off! If you've had your eye on that special piece, get in here early in the week.

Thanks again to you all for supporting your local businesses! We at Bodacious appreciate your patronage very much.