Bookkeeping MUSTS for Small Businesses

Since the beginning of launching my business, I have always been hesitant to spend any money on business services for my business, as I’m always trying to learn and do every part of my business myself. But as someone who has never taken a financial course in their life, trying to teach myself how to manage my business finances in the most stress-free and cost-effective manner has been extremely challenging.

So when I heard the rad people at SOURCED. talking about Bench Co. and their free one month trial - I was excited to give it a try. 

If there is one place to invest more money into my business, I decided that the finances, and specifically bookkeeping would be a great place to start. 

What is Bench?

Bench Co. is online bookkeeping powered by real humans. 

What they help with the most is tracking and categorizing your business income and expenses, and presenting these numbers via financial charts and reports that are easy for even a financial illiterate like myself to comprehend. 

My favorite part of Bench though has been having a dedicated professional bookkeeper for my business, that I have used as a mentor to give me guidance on straightening out the basic set-up of all my finances. 

Free one month trial! How does it work?

From the first step of the free trial, to the final sign-on, what I loved about Bench was their thoroughness and easy onboarding process. To get started, Bench sets up a phone call with you and a member of their team to walk step by step through the items they need you to submit to set-up your account. They’ll then review what you can expect from the platform and what resources are available to you as a Bench member.

By walking through the process step by step with a Bench representatives, the onboarding process took less than 30 minutes to complete. 

As someone who still has a lot to learn about some general business finances, I appreciated having someone to ask questions to directly and to offer me professional guidance on everything from how I can better separate my accounts to what kind of expenses can be tax deductible. 

Even outside of scheduled calls with the Bench team, your bench account includes a messaging platform to chat or ask random questions with anyone from the Bench team at any time! Their response time is within 1 day, and it’s a real person you are messaging - not a chat bot.

After setting up your Bench account, you’re given a dedicated bookkeeper who is not only a financial mentor for you at any time, but also through your account portal will:

1) Track all your business transactions & categorize them by business meals, merchant fees, software & web hosting expenses...etc.

2) Collect & store all your receipts, statements, payroll reports, and any other documents relating to your business activities

3) Send you monthly financial reports and easy to read graphs & balance sheets to evaluate your business income vs. expenses, spending habits and more

4) Create a year-end financial package to make it easy when it’s time to file your taxes

Ok...but what’s the price?
Bench’s affordable pricing is what makes it perfect for small businesses. For a starter package of less than $120 a month, having all of these services in one dedicated bookkeeping service, as well as the financial mentorship available at anytime, has been more than worth it.

In addition to getting my bookkeeping records in order, working with Bench these last couple months has been a huge eye opener for me to improve my general financial structure.

My biggest takeaway -
Separate your personal and business expenses! The easiest way is creating separate accounts, or a dedicated credit card for business related purchases only. 

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Written by Nicole Prybula.

Nicole is a Corporate Event Producer that loves turning a standard business meeting into an impactful brand experience that attendees fall in love with. If Nicole isn't soaking up inspiration working with her co-workers at Sourced, it's because she's traveling and working from a cafe on the other side of the world. Find her online at www.cultivatedexperiences.com and follow her adventures on Instagram at @cultivatedexperiences

2019 BEST OF events

We had the absolute pleasure of hosting some pretty remarkable and memorial events this past year.

We had a good amount of repeat clients that rented our space for photo shoots, pop up shopping events, and one-on-one coaching sessions. We also starting listing our venue on Peerspace and through our own social media marketing and newsletter, we attracted almost double our bookings this year.

The amount aside - what was truly special was the people and moments we were able to celebrate under our shared roof.

Here are my top favorite event moments of 2019…

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N & M exchange vows

Mercy and Nathan attended a show for Ginger Root back in 2018 and knew it was the initmate space they were looking for. The young couple planned a low-key affair for 35 guests who gathered in the front yard as they recited their vows. Family travelled near and far - some making the trek from China.

Jaclyn Florescio created signage of the nights festivities, including open mic and performances by the couples favorite bands, Ginger Root and Apollo Bebop. Everyone wore a big smile, danced the night away, and ate cake! My favorite moment was when a neighbor popped by so taken by the music she was hearing next door. We both peered in from the door amazed at the sight were we seeing. It definitely was one of those magical moments when we all felt like one family called to share the same space.

Thank you Mercy and Nathan for hosting such a beautiful day with us. You two radiate love.

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A sweet workshop with Frost Your Cookie

I had been swooning over Anais’s instagram (business formally known as, The Sweet Lemon Bakeshop) before we met in real life. We had commissioned her to make cookies for our 5 year Anniversary party and she also joined us for a Sourced Pop Up Shop where she did a cookie demo at our craft table. She’s an absolute joy - so nurturing with a calm presence. Her cookies wowed everyone and we quickly dreamt up hosting a cookie demo workshop around Valentine’s Day.

Anais came up with “Whole Llama Love Workshop,” listed the workshop on her website, did her own marketing, and workshop sold out quickly! It was incredible to see & the day of the space was turned into a sugar dreamland where a group of 20 plus women (and Steve) tested their hand at cookie decorating. It was amazing to see everyone’s variations, sense of community, and Anais in her teaching power.

Make sure to check out: www.frostyourcookie.com

Photography by: Kristin Taylor Photography

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First comes Love: Baby & Bridal Showers

It’s not everyday that you get to host a baby shower for one of your dearest friends - who you introduced to your Brother, who met for the first time at SOURCED., who will become your Sister-in-Law, and give birth to your perfect niece. TACO ABOUT BABY, this was a great day!

The Crash Baby Shower was one for the books! This shower was a truly labor of love with so many special details dreamt up by friends and family. They had dip dying of onesies in the front yard, one of the most creative “Price is Right” style baby shower games I had ever seen, and the blue/gold color scheme just shined within our space.

The Rains Baby Shower was another one where the space instantly felt like home. Friends & family of the Mother-to-Be came in with beautiful flowers and made their own charcuterie display. The details were so personalized and meaningful.

Receiving compliments like these after an event leaves you saying, LET’S DO ANOTHER!

“Hi Michelle, I just wanted to send a quick note thanking you again for the use of your space yesterday. The shower would not have been such a success if you were not around to help w/ setup! Your professionalism and attention to detail is unmatched.”

Nicole’s Bridal Shower was one where we truly got to collaborate with Mother of the Bride Susie (who we absolutely loved!). Susie lived out of state and we worked remotely for months coordinating all the special details. We did tons of custom signage for them, a mimosa bar outside, flowers, and mixed the tables with fun paper & plastic plates and utensils and Susie’s exquisite cut glass goblets. You know you got it right when you catch the Bride to be snapping away photos of every special detail.

Lyla & Ed are officemates of ours and hosted their Farewell Wedding Brunch just feet away from where they have a rented office space. I don’t think that happens that often in real life. It definitely felt like another dream day filled with friends and family.

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We’re Here Because of YOU, party!

Our biggest production of the year was definitely The Pattillo Appreciation Party. Clients, Penny & Don Pattillo wanted to host an event that was for their clients. As realtors, the idea was like an Open House without selling anything. They wanted to create an environment to connect with their clients before the busy holidays, an opportunity for people to meet one another in a casual atmosphere, enjoy some delicious food, cocktails and ice cream. We did wine tasting, had live jazz music, and even had a local photographer doing impromptu headshots and family portraits. Everyone also went home with a custom “Laguna Beach Crest” wine bottle with their monogram.

Needless to say, most guests had no idea what an Appreciation Party was before they arrived and they all left with big smiles on their faces. Penny & Don definitely got the party they envisioned and their tribe became one.

Client: The Pattillo Team

Photography: Mary Hurlbut

Videography: Sparkle Films

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Written by Michelle Mercado.

Michelle is the Founder & Creative Director of SOURCED. and a semi-retired event planner. When Michelle isn’t hosting event, she’s most likely making the office playlists, restocking the snacks, taking out the trash, and making everyone feel at home.

The Key to A Successful Relationship: It’s Not What You Think

Question: How do couples who BOTH work from home keep the romance alive and resist gauging each other’s eyes out?

Answer: They stop working from home and start coworking.

You might not know this, but Sourced is home to some of Laguna Beach’s hottest couples. 

They’re kind of a source of inspiration in the office (...or, maybe that’s just to little ol’ single me).

All of the couples who work here lease a desk space, which they alternate using. While they’re not typically here at the same time (though sometimes the person not using the desk will come out into the coworking space!) this little cottage and community is like a second shared home to them.

Instead of rambling on, I’m going to let THEM tell you about how working out of Sourced has been a game changer for their work habits and relationships. 

Today on the blog we’re talking to three of the Sourced couples, Felix and Ali, and Heidi and Jamie, and Ed and Lyla all about what it’s like to work at Sourced as a couple.

First up we have Felix and Ali:

What do you both do? 

Felix: I'm a UX designer at Slalom, a tech consulting firm headquartered in Seattle - but I work out of the Irvine office. Ali is a design recruiter at Pinterest, based out of San Francisco but working remotely. And before you ask, yes: we met because she recruited me years ago at a different company :)

Ali: Felix is a liar. I definitely did not recruit him (boundaries people!), but my company did... and we did meet at work... :)

 How long have you worked at Sourced? 

Coming up on 1 year! How time flies :)

Did one of you start before the other? If so, what was the thing that enticed the other one to join in on the co-working fun?

Felix: I started before Ali. When we first moved to Laguna a little over a year ago, we were both working remotely - and going stir crazy! We'd seen Sourced a few times over the years and wondered what it was. When I finally emailed Michelle, within a week I was in the front room working and meeting folks. Within a month I had my own desk. Now Ali and I share a bigger desk in the back.

Ali: It wasn't so much Felix that got me onboard, as much as the fact that I was starting to have full conversations with our cats. I needed some human interaction, and the cabin fever was really starting to become a problem!

In what ways have your differences benefited you and/or become an obstacle?

Felix: Just realizing that both of us working out of our tiny 1 bedroom wasn't going to work out was a big first step. I'm a pretty social guy, so having a built in community/family of folks who do different stuff than me has been really great. 

Ali: When we were both trying to work from home, it didn't go great. I am on calls so much of the day, and tend to go hyper-focused in between. Felix can be a bit of a... chatterbox, so having a place to go has been very good for us, and my sanity :). 

Would you recommend sharing an out-of-home co-working space to other couples? Why or why not?

Felix: Totally! I know folks who are able to work together at home, but getting out of your space and meeting people is pretty energizing. It really does depend on the kind of work you do, but I'd say that mixing it up every once in a while can only improve your work and relationship. Besides, working in PJs on the couch at home sounds fun and glamorous, but really isn't all that it's chalked up to be.

Ali: YES. Particularly if you live in under 600 square feet and one of you needs her space... But I also love having a second space to share with Felix. We aren't usually there at the same time, but it's somewhere we can stop by and see each other, accidentally cross paths, and leave each other notes. It really feels like another home for us. 

What do you love most about working at Sourced?

Felix: The people and lovely community Michelle has curated. The beautiful space. The fact that it's 1.5 blocks to my local surf spot :)

Ali: The atmosphere is truly inspiring. It's a place you just want to be, and it's hard to feel stressed in a space like Sourced. It's really become a core part of our social lives, too, and that's pretty special. 

Adorable right? Did their cuteness just leap off the page and make you re-download Bumble? (or...was that just me?) 

Second up, we have Jamie and Heidi (as told by Heidi).

 What do you both do? Jamie and I (Heidi) run our leather earring business, Aha Crafted. Jamie is also a graphic designer and owns Jamie Alan Design.

 How do your schedules and work styles differ? 

I get up at 6 am and go all day. Jamie is a bit more leisurely-- he gets up at eight, works for a couple hours, takes a break around two, and then sometimes works until the night.

Has having a space outside of the home to work been important for you both?  How so?

Yes! We really needed a space outside of our house since we both work from home. Even though we had our own work stations, we could always hear each other on the phone and really needed our own individual spaces. 

Would you recommend sharing an out-of-home co-working space to other couples? Why or why not?

Yes! It allows you to hang out and enjoy your home together so much more. One of the biggest benefits is getting that time apart from each other. It allows you to not have so much “grey area” between where work ends and play + fun begin.

What do you love most about working at Sourced?

The people we’ve met and the energy that I get from coming here. I feel so much more drab when I work from home. I gain so much more zest and connection when I get up and come into Sourced.

Need I say more?!

And finally, we have the latest (and newly wed!) couple addition to the office, Lyla and Ed.

 What do you both do? 

Lyla: We both work in Tech —  I’m a Senior Manager of Demand Generation Marketing at Salesforce and Ed is a Lead Technical Recruiter at Amazon. 

 We met at our first job out of college — and like most post-grad gigs, we weren’t exactly fulfilled or happy in our roles. I ended up landing an incredible job with a tech startup but I couldn’t figure out why I was devastated to resign. My best friend had to spell it out for me — she said “you like this guy, and you are sad to not see him everyday.” She was right and funnily enough, Ed’s best friend had the same conversation with him. We’ve been together ever since.

Did one of you start before the other? If so, what was the thing that enticed the other one to join in on the co-working fun?

Lyla: I started at Sourced a few months before Ed decided to join. We both came from very collaborative environments back in San Francisco, and I didn’t realize all the benefits of joining Sourced when I signed up. I was getting more out of it than the separation of home and work which was what I initially thought was all I needed. To my surprise, I tapped into a community that fulfilled and energized me — both personally and professionally. 

 We were skeptical at first because we didn’t want to be spending *too much* time together, but we realized it was a nonissue really quickly. Sourced is the perfect environment to collaborate with others (if you’re in the mood) or get laser focused on work (if you’re in the zone). 

How do your schedules and work styles differ? 

Lyla: I have several meetings throughout the day — video calls specifically. My day is broken up between calls with my team around the world and blocks of time to strategize and execute on our marketing initiatives. I can transition between the two pretty easily and I love working in a buzzy yet productive environment. I love the midday conversation or the quick lunch with a “co-worker.” 

 Ed is definitely most productive in a quiet, focused and distraction-free zone. He doesn’t love transitioning from personal convos to work calls — he’d rather start his day with a coffee and a chat and end it with a surf date. He prefers to socialize on the surfboard, not in the office. Luckily, Sourced is just a 2 minute walk from his favorite beach and our favorite coffee shop, Laguna Coffee — best of both worlds!

 In what ways have your differences benefited you and/or become an obstacle? 

Lyla: We know we operate differently and thrive in different work environments — we are very different people but with lots of common ground. We love that about each other — I didn’t want to marry someone just like me! 

What do you love most about working at Sourced?

 Sourced gives us the opportunity to have it both ways. Working from home together had its challenges because we both work on different wavelengths and that could be frustrating when you want to chat and it’s not reciprocated or on the flip side, if you want to focus on the task at hand without interruption.

 Since joining Sourced, we don’t have that challenge. We leave the house every morning to go to our office space and we have organic opportunities for social interaction before, during, or after work. We feel much more in control of our day — we love that.

 There you have it! If you and your partner are at home yelling over each other’s conference calls Mon-Fri, a desk space in the cutest,  beachside cottage you’ve ever set foot in just might be the thing that saves your relationship. 

 Because couples that co-work together, stay together ;)

***Update: Since this blog’s original writing date, the author may or may not have found herself coupled up with another co-worker here at Sourced. No Bumble re-download necessary. Who knows? There might just be something in the air here for singles too…

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Written by Devon Walz. In addition to being a content creator for Sourced, Devon is mixed media fine artist and art educator. When she isn’t dreaming up new topics for the Sourced blog or chatting away with her co-workers, you can probably find her covered in paint and jamming out in her Santa Ana art studio. Find her on Instagram @devonwalzart and online at www.devonwalz.com. 

5 Ways to Elevate Your Business on Instagram: What’s Working NOW

The ‘gram. Do we all have a love/hate relationship with this thing or what? It’s almost 2020 and the truth is, for better or for worse, Instagram is still THE best way to gain traction in your business (*cough* especially if you offer remote services or you sell anything online *cough*). Pretty much everyone is hanging out on the platform including your potential clients and customers, so you should be doing the same.

Has the platform changed? Yes.

But can you still see amazing results for your business? You absolutely can.

As someone who has been able to roll with the punches to keep my (mostly Instagram based) art business growing, I can tell you that there is tons of potential left in this platform. 

But knowing how to use it to your business’s advantage is KEY.

Here are my best five tips for success on Instagram going into the New Year.

1. It’s about quality, not quantity

Stop worrying about growth. Seriously.
Your success is equivalent to your engagement rate, NOT to how many followers you have.

Here’s the thing: engagement comes from those who are ALREADY following you. 

The better you can serve those who are already sitting at the table, the better your business will do (hello, conversions) AND the more your account will organically grow due to your high engagement rate (engagement = more visibility on the discover page and within hashtags).

Get to know your community so you can best serve them. Who’s already in your fan club? What drew them to your page? Why do they stick around? 

If you don’t know the answers to these questions-- ask! The polls and questions you can run in your stories are a great way to do this.

Another way to strengthen the relationship with your current following is to show that you care by thoughtfully responding to comments and DM’s. This is also how you can get to know them even better. 

*Fun fact: Almost 50% of my clients and customers are people who have been in my DM’s at one point or another.

2. Provide Value

This is an expansion on tip #1, but these days it’s all about QUALITY content. 

The days of posting once or twice a day as your best strategy are over. In fact, a large quantity of posts that aren’t properly engaged with can work against you, knocking your posts down in the algorithm. 

Quality = the level value it provides to your followers.

Even though Instagram can be a fun place to show off your fancy meals and favorite cat (guilty), you should aim to keep at least 80% of your content high value. 

To get an idea of what valuable content is made of, think about who YOU follow and the value you get from the posts of your favorite accounts.

Before sharing something, ask yourself, “What am I hoping that my ideal client will get out of seeing this?”

 It might be something simple like, “Joy from the beauty of this photo,” or, “A laugh.” Or it might run a bit deeper like education on a certain topic.

No matter how simple or nuanced the value though, it should always tie back to the value of YOU and YOUR SERVICE in some way. 

‘Cause we’re here for business, remember?

*Pro tip: Pay attention to what gets the best engagement via your analytics and then double down on that type of content. 

3. Create Shareable Content

If you ARE looking for growth (aka more new followers to your page) one of the best tactics is creating shareable content. Sorry to say, but hashtags alone just aren’t going to cut it anymore. 

This is why meme accounts can blow up overnight and why therapists with deeply resonate quotes are having their hay day on the platform: their content is easily shared.

People typically share things that they identify with, want to be associated with, deeply resonate with, that was helpful to them, or that made them laugh.

If you’re funny, lean into that.

If that’s unnatural for you or not your brand, sharing from the heart, calling out a truth or something a little taboo, or writing something that solves a problem can get a ton of traction.

4. Engaging Stories

Stories are a fabulous way to connect with your following, but their visibility also runs on an algorithm. 

A great way to spark engagement is to encourage DM’s, and use the stickers like polls, questions and the emoji slider.

Similar to monitoring which of your posts get the most engagement, you can look in your archive to see which stories had the most views. This is an indicator of which stories got bumped up in the alorigithm due their popularity with your following. Again, double down on that kind of content!

5. Emphasize what makes you and your business different

While you may have heard the advice “be yourself” a few times before, this is actually really important in a time when everyone and their mom is trying to run an online business.

If you find yourself trying to make your posts more generic or vanilla for fear of being disliked, or wanting to be liked by everyone...don’t.

You’ll have much more success if you connect with a specific group of people, so start looking for what sets you apart.

Are you multi-passionate?

Is your background slightly different than others in your field?

What perspective are you bringing to the table that might be even just the tiniest bit different than your competitors?

What, from outside of your field of expertise, do you bring to the mix?

These are answers worth fleshing out. Once you land on a couple things, find ways to work it into your brand and into your content!

I hope you enjoyed these tips! Tons of businesses are making their debut with great results on this platform every, single day. If they can do it, so can you. I promise.

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Written by Devon Walz. In addition to being a content creator for Sourced, Devon is mixed media fine artist and art educator. When she isn’t dreaming up new topics for the Sourced blog or chatting away with her co-workers, you can probably find her covered in paint and jamming out in her Santa Ana art studio. Find her on Instagram @devonwalzart and online at www.devonwalz.com. 

How to Prioritize Your Creativity as an Entrepreneur

When you run a creative business (or any business for that matter) AND you’re a creative with your own projects and goals, carving out time your own creative time can be tricky.

As an artist who runs a business teaching online art courses and running mentorships, I’ve seen first hand how the lines can get REAL blurry between work and art. If I’m not intentional, my art will end up taking a backseat all too quick (which, in turn, makes me very, very sad).

Can you relate?

 Maybe you run an ecommerce business, but your passion is music and you REALLY want to get more gigs next year. Or maybe your a graphic designer who does tons of client work, but you really want to make traction on that personal project of yours. Or even develop your own body of work.

Even though it can be challenging to get time in with your passion projects, you CAN’T let your personal creative work fall to the wayside (because psst...that’s how souls die).

Here are the three best ways that I’ve found to ensure your creative work (and spirit!) thrives as much as much as your  business does.

1. Do the Most Creative + Personally Rewarding Thing FIRST

Your art is your gold and it should be treated as such. Believe me, I understand how biz and freelancing tasks can feel like the urgent priority. But the problem is when you’re in business for yourself there is ALWAYS, and I mean always, more to do.  If we wait until we get to the end of the list to start our own creative work we will never get there.

AND: your own creative work deserves the MOST of your fresh creative juices. If you spend it all on that client project beforehand, you won’t have much left for yourself. You can likely rely on pre-made systems and structures when it comes to your business. It doesn’t need as much of that pure inspiration as your art does.

So, if you’re on a mission to get your own time in it should be the first thing you do. Whether that means the first thing in your day, your week or your month.

2. The Power of Small Commitments 

Pencil that creative time RIGHT into your calendar. Commit to it like you would any other task. Set goals. Doable goals that you’ll show up for.

You can set out to have something completed by a certain date, or simply set a goal for the amount of time you’d like to show up for it.

I personally like to commit to a certain number of studio days each week. Once it’s in my calendar, nothing can touch that blocked out time.

If my schedule is too full for that I pencil in 30 minutes of sketching first thing in the morning. Or even 10 minutes if I feel like that’s all I can manage.

The tiniest bit is infinitely better than nothing. 

3. Compartmentalize with Rituals 

Remember those blurry lines I was talking about? It’s important that you have a way to set apart your own creative work from your business. 

The truth is you want to bring a different kind of energy to your art than you would to your biz. Instead of deadlines and to-do’s you want to be heart-centered and inspired.

The best way to fully switch gears is with a ritual-- a change in your routine or scenery to let your brain know that you’re entering your own sacred creative container.

You could physically change locations, make yourself a cup of tea, go for a walk first, change your clothes or clean up your space. Whatever it is it should be something you do every time. 

Not only is this another way you get to make your creative time fun, but it will help you shut off the entrepreneur side of yourself just for that period of time when you want to be totally creatively immersed.

I hope these tips inspire you to close the laptop from time to time and give your creative heart the playtime it deserves. You owe it to yourself and to your art. Now go get MAKING.

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Written by Devon Walz. In addition to being a content creator for Sourced, Devon is mixed media fine artist and art educator. When she isn’t dreaming up new topics for the Sourced blog or chatting away with her co-workers, you can probably find her covered in paint and jamming out in her Santa Ana art studio. Find her on Instagram @devonwalzart and online at www.devonwalz.com. 

Why You Should Change Up Your Work Space: Lessons from a Co-Worker’s Field Trip

A couple weeks ago Jaclyn, Michelle and I took a little field trip to Downtown Santa Ana to co-work at our friend, Sarah Cuda’s, space, Batch. 

A totally different vibe than our beachside cottage, Batch has a very intentional and modern feel, is fully equipped with the MOST comfortable chairs (that roll!), and is complete with a photo room (hello changeable backdrops, perfect lighting and never-ending content creation right at your fingertips ). 

You might be wondering: But why you would ever leave Sourced.? After all-- it’s pretty much the co-working space of your dreams. 

Well, here’s the thing: no matter how great your workspace might be, changing up your environment is a surefire way to get new ideas and fresh perspective, and boost your productivity. 

We started the day at Hopper and Burr, a killer coffee shop down the street, then headed to Batch for a morning of brainstorming and planning. After that we zoned into our own projects for about an hour (cracking jokes in-between keystrokes) then broke out for lunch at Alta Baja Market.

Was changing up our routine of eating at Active Culture a nice break? Um YES. And even though we LOVE Laguna Coffee Company, did we also enjoy some new barista eye candy? Yes. Yes we did. 

After lunch we ventured to my art studio for a mini tour, which just happens to be a few blocks away, then finished out the afternoon in work mode back at Batch. Jac took a call in their meeting room while Michelle and I powered out a few newsletters. 

While I left the day with my typical work tasks complete, I also walked away feeling like I had done something really fun and different (and might I even say, adventurous) with my day. 

This isn’t a small thing when you work for yourself. Bringing fun into the work week and infusing new energy into what you do is REALLY important.

The amount of new energy you bring new to your day-to-day might be the difference between just going through the motions and receiving inspiration for a game-changing course of action in your business.

Not Google searching exciting places to post up with your laptop yet? Here’s the short hand of why you should make a point to get down to business in new spaces:

• A chance to meet and mingle (and possibly network!) with a new community

• Inspiration and energy from from doing your work in a new environment

• Treating yourself to a change in lunch and coffee (seriously...a huge pro)

• Feeling like you did something new and fun, when really you were getting your work done as per usual!

A big thanks to Batch for hosting the Sourced crew for the day. We’ll definitely be back!

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Written by Devon Walz. In addition to being a content creator for Sourced, Devon is mixed media fine artist and art educator. When she isn’t dreaming up new topics for the Sourced blog or chatting away with her co-workers, you can probably find her covered in paint and jamming out in her Santa Ana art studio. Find her on Instagram @devonwalzart and online at www.devonwalz.com.

Self-Help Books That Won't Make Your Eyes Roll: The Co-Worker's List

Self-Help Books That Won’t Make Your Eyes Roll: The Co-Worker’s List

Confession: I’m a self-help junkie. When I was growing up my Dad would make us listen to “Think and Grow Rich,” on cassette tape in the car, gift all four children his annual book of choice at Christmas, and frame excerpts from “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” and put them around the house.

 I rolled my eyes at the time, but--what can I say--his thirst for being the best “you” you can be rubbed off on me. 

There’s been many times in my life when the right self-help book shifted me out of a funk, or given me the exact inspiration I needed to go after what I wanted (in relationships, business, personal healing and beyond).

 While there’s so many great books out there, what I’ve learned is that it’s really about picking up the right book at the right time. And with the overabundance of preachy texts lurking the shelves, it can be hard to tell what’s total BS and what’s filled with motivational gold that was meant for you.

Fear not my growth-hungry friend! I’ve compiled a list of the co-worker’s favorite here at Sourced. On this list you’ll find something for all personality types, reading styles and self-help needing moments in life.

SOURCED. community library (and many oracle decks)

1) “Journey To the Heart” by Melody Bettie 

Recommended by Heidi Dametz.  Designer and Co-founder at Aha Crafted Jewelry.

“This is a daily meditation book. The passages are dated for a full year and they are just under a page long. I try to read it daily. I’ve had it for 6 years. She has a way of putting a thought or idea that I think most people struggle with and offers a soft/gentle way for your mind and soul to embrace it.”

2) "Thinking with Type" by Ellen Lupton

Recommended by Jaclyn Florescio. Illustrator and graphic artist.

“When I need guidance about typography or graphic design, this is my go-to book.  "It's not a book about fonts, it's about how to use them." It provides examples, explanations and exercises that have helped me tremendously.”

3) “The Untethered Soul” by Michael A. Singer” and  4) “Notes to Myself” by Hugh Prather 

Recommended by Makenna Zur Schmiede. Actress and Yoga Instructor at Bala Shala Yoga.

“Rather than notating, I recommend with these books coming back to them every once in a while. Letting each new version of you get excited and inspired all over again.” 

5) “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

Recommended by Gianfranco Pagliara. Remote Sales Manager at Direct Med.

“This book taught me that there is a world out there to be explored and to break past the status quo. Sometimes you have to take a risk (which is how I’m now out here in Cali!)”

 
6) “White Hot Truth” by Danielle Laporte

Recommended by Devon Walz (yours truly!). Artist and Creative Mentor. 

“This is spirituality and self-help for those who are sick of the BS being floated around in spirituality and self-help. Danielle goes into all topics that are medicine for the heart, while calling out what’s been toxifying the self-help world. I recommend it for anyone who wants to reconnect with truth, with themselves and with the divine in a refreshingly real way. 

I recommend one quick read to soak it all in and then returning with a highlighter to capture the gems.”

7) “You Are a Badass” by Jenn Scincero 

Recommended by Sharael Kolberg. Web Developer and Travel Writer.

All the personal development fundamentals with a no-bs, ass-kicking twist. Jenn’s writing style will ensure you keep the pages turning and her wisdom is on point. A great read for when you need that real deal pep talk!

Soak in one or more of these bad boys and you’re sure to hit your next level before Halloween. Sourced guaranteed. Enjoy!

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Written by Devon Walz. In addition to being a content creator for Sourced, Devon is mixed media fine artist and art educator. When she isn’t dreaming up new topics for the Sourced blog or chatting away with her co-workers, you can probably find her covered in paint and jamming out in her Santa Ana art studio. Find her on Instagram @devonwalzart and online at www.devonwalz.com. 

The Sourced Pop-Up: Proud to Shop and Inspired to Create

There are few events that leave me feeling more proud to be an artist and inspired to get making than the Sourced Pop Up.

What is typically our co-working space is transformed into a beautiful, buzzing mini-market where local makers, artists, crafters and designers come to sell their latest and greatest.

On this particular Saturday, the tables are filled with everything from handmade jewelry and body positive swimwear, to crystals, beach bags, ceramics and holistic hair care-- all made with artistry and intention.

I arrive on scene right around the time the mimosas are circling and people are showing off their Spirit Sticks (today’s craft which is hosted in our front yard --the adults seem to love it as much as the kids).  As someone who’s passionate about the intersection of art and business, I’m just as excited to get to know the women behind the tables as I am to shop.

My first stop is chatting with Kelsey of The Happy Little Potter. I was drawn in by her bright magenta ceramic tumblers, which I quickly learn is a difficult and unpredictable color to keep when firing the clay. She lights up as she talks about the process. When I asked her how she got started she said, “It’s my break from being a full time mom.” 

This turns out to be a common theme here at the pop-up. I hear a similar story from Catherine, the creator behind Angel Del Mar, a stunning seaside-inspired jewelry company. She tells me about how she’s always learning how to balance being a mom and creating her pieces. I’m blown away by her level of output-- each piece is so unique and intentional, and today she’s brought a gorgeous variety.

These stories in particular hit home for me. While I’m not a mom, I also started making art out of a need to do something creative that was just for me. I’m reminded that my story is just one line in a bigger, collective story of passionate makers who do what they do for they joy of it. 

In addition to creative expression, there’s another shared origin story circling the market today: creating the solution to a problem that didn’t exist yet. 

Love of Love + Snow tells me that after a decade of hair and scalp issues, and trying countless toxic products, she invented a totally organic solution to her problem. I got the full run down on why her hair serum will solve almost all of your hair-related issues and let me tell you: Love knows. Her. Stuff. I was blown away by her knowledge and passion, and  learned so much in our short conversation. She had me sold that the key to better hair starts with caring for your scalp.

Helen of Charming Little Lotus, is also bringing something into the world that she desired for herself, but had yet to find: a unique lotus talisman. Since the seed of that original design, her jewelry line has blossomed into an elegant selection that also includes coy fish, flower petals, succulents and more. She shares with me that many of her designs start from the sketches she does in gardens and nature. You can really feel the artistry behind her pieces-- I love that. 

And then sometimes the solution one might need is a way to look cool while you’re living your best, active life. This is what Bama of Sixth & Co. brings with her blanket and a bag all in one. Her booth is lined with countless options of colors and patterns for these bags-- so many, in fact, that I was almost in disbelief when she told me her products were all handmade.

As I make my way through the colorful market, trying on rings, picking up crystals and running my hands through the rack of blanket bags, it starts to sink in that each of these vendors is making a positive impact in the world by doing what they’re doing. And that, by shopping with them, so am I. 

Brianna of Lavluna healing is particularly enthusiastic about making positive change with her business. Everything she sells, from sage bundles and crystals, to body wash and natural cleaning products, is sold with the intention of supporting the Earth. In addition to being a Reiki healer, she makes many of the products herself (like the cleaners and smudge sticks). Anything not made by her own hands is brought in by other ethical, women-owned small businesses. 

And while, what originally told me that Lexi Donanto and I were kindred spirits was her gorgeous pastel-colored branding (my colors!), I soon learn that her business is packing a more powerful punch than excellent business cards. Her swimwear line, LDLA designs, is eco-friendly, body positive and intentionally designed to allow you to feel confident while poolside. Even the typical sizing labels have been replaced with names like Athena and Venus. When I asked her how it came about, she said it was something she just didn’t see yet in existing the swimwear industry-- but that needed to! I couldn’t agree more.

As the vendors pack up and I reflect on my conversations, I have to admit my favorite thing about Pop-Up is not the delicate silver jewelry, the perfectly fitting yellow swimsuits, or the lavender bath salts (although, don’t get me wrong, it’s a CLOSE call). It’s that I always leave these Saturdays energized and hopeful knowing that there are so many small businesses contributing heart-filled and important things to our world. 

It makes me think that all shopping experiences should be more like this: face-to-face, hearing the story of the person behind the brand, feeling that much more over-the-moon about your new tea set, seashell necklace and bitchin’ beach bag. 

For more information on applying to be a pop up vendor, please visit www.sourcedpopup.com. Join us for our next shopping event on Saturday, September 21st!

All photos by Riley Starr as part of our “grow” package

The Top 5 Best Things About Co-Working

Before working at Sourced, I either felt chained to my home office (aka the tiny desk in my bedroom) or constantly scrambling to find the perfect coffee shop (comfortable chairs, outlets, always a space, decently quiet, not Starbucks, great wifi...it doesn’t exist). 

Since becoming a Sourced member I can’t believe I waited this long to start co-working. However, I think the reason it took me so long to jump on that bandwagon is I didn’t realize what I was missing out on. It’s hard to put your finger on what’s been lacking until you’ve found it.  

So I thought I’d break it down for you.

Here are my favorite things about CO-WORKING (and why you need to start co-working, too). 

1. Reason To Get Dressed

If you go to a job, you might not get this one. But for the rest of you entrepreneurs and freelancers, you KNOW how easy it is to stay in your pajamas and how much you miss having a reason to put on an outfit (the grocery store is simply not motivating enough-- am I right? ). I love having a reason to get ready and show up as I the kind of person I’d like to be in my business. But beyond just feeling cute, this actually has an effect on how I see myself as a business owner. And a human. 

Photo by Riley Starr

2. Laguna Beach Life

Obviously, this is only a benefit if you co-work at Sourced, but it’s been huge for me! Not only is Sourced itself the most adorable, love-filled beach cottage you’ll ever set foot in, but it simply cannot be separated from the fact that it’s one block from the beach. And a stone’s throw away from from my favorite coffee shop. And from my two favorite places to grab lunch (The Stand and Active Culture). Where you spend your time matters. It affects your productivity AND your joy.

Photo by Neighborhood Creative

3. Networking

While this isn’t my favorite word it IS important as a small business owner and it’s been one of the biggest benefits of co-working for me. Not to mention, this is NOT something you get from your local coffee shop (...or bedroom for that matter). 

New business often comes from people you already have some kind of connection with. When someone needs a logo designed, who are they going to turn to or refer out? The fun friend they sit next to all day or a random designer off Yelp? Without IRL connections, you’re likely going to have a hard time staying afloat. 

Photo by Neighborhood Creative

4.   Liking What You Do For Work WAY More

Did you know there was a study done that showed that those who have a best friend at work are seven times as likely to be engaged in their jobs, produce higher quality work, and are way happier? It showed that who you work with is a bigger factor in liking your job than what your job actually is.

If you’ve been a freelancer or business owner for awhile, you know it can be just as isolating as it is freeing. Co-working brings back into balance what you lack when you work for yourself: other people! Yes, as covered in #3 is this important for networking. But it’s also important for ENJOYING that independent lifestyle you probably dreamed about for so long. You need jokes and side convos and group coffee breaks-- not just 1-on-1 hours with a screen. It helps your productivity tons and allows you to work longer days, too.

Photo by Mary Hurlbut

5.  Support

Similar (but different) to  #3 and #4, another thing co-working brings to the table are people who can offer you help, feedback, encouragement and support. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve asked Riley, our photographer,  for help with Photoshop, or Jaclyn, an illustrator and designer, for a second opinion on business cards. In a co-working space you have access to people with a whole variety of specializations and skills, allowing you to up-level in ways you couldn’t of on your own. It also gives YOU the chance to lend a helping hand with what you do best, too. Again, your business and your happiness will be better for it.

Photo by Riley Starr

So there you have it-- 5 reasons to get your booty in community and start working alongside to people that help you out and make you laugh on a regular basis.

Want to find the RIGHT space for you and what you do? Try it out first! Go to an event or get a day pass.  Different spaces draw in different crowds. Since most these benefits listed have to do with the people you work next to, it’s important to find a space and a vibe that resonates with you. That’s also to say that if you’ve tried out a co-working space before and you didn’t feel very at home, it very well could’ve just been that office space. 

Photo by Neighborhood Creative

And if you need a little nudge in the right direction, I can tell you right now that if warm, supportive, welcoming energy is your thing and you don’t mind being next to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, SOURCED. is probably your place.

Happy Co-Working!

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Written by Devon Walz. In addition to being a content creator for Sourced, Devon is mixed media fine artist and art educator. When she isn’t dreaming up new topics for the Sourced blog or chatting away with her co-workers, you can probably find her covered in paint and jamming out in her Santa Ana art studio. Find her on Instagram @devonwalzart and online at www.devonwalz.com. 

BEST Entrepreneur Podcasts for Motivation & Inspiration

Our Favorite Podcasts For Motivation and Inspiration 

I don’t know about you, but I’m a SERIOUS podcast junkie. As someone who drives 30 minutes to her studio, 30 minutes to SOURCED., takes many road trips throughout the year AND spends hours on end stretching canvas, the hosts of my favorite shows are basically my friends.

But beyond just passing time, I’ve learned A TON since I started absorbing podcasts.  In fact, many of the strategies I use in my business have come straight from episodes of my favorite shows. Not to mention, often an inspiring episode is just what I need to pull me out the the “I’ll-never-make-a-sale-again” blues. 

If you’re in a biz rut yourself, or just need some fire under your booty this week, here are our favorite podcasts for getting MOTIVATED here at SOURCED.

How I Built This 

A favorite among many in the office, this show gives you a behind the scenes look at just how some of the world’s best-known companies got started from the ground up. 

Fav Episodes:

• Zumba: Beto Perez & Alberto Perlman

• Away: Jen Rubio

• Canva: Melanie Perkins

• Barre3: Sadie Lincoln

The School of Greatness with Lewis Howes 

This is another great one if you love inspiring stories and will definitely leave you fired up. A lifestyle entrepreneur himself, Lewis interviews guests with a wide variety of specialities-- everything from relationships to business and self-help to fitness. 

My favorite inspiring interviews are #572 with Rachel Platten on never giving up on your dreams and #697 with Rachel Hollis-- great if you need a nudge to keep moving forward and own your truth.

HBR Idea cast

Put on by the Harvard Business Review, this one is quite educational. Highly recommended for learning about niche topics and finding answers to your specific questions about running a successful business. 

Get your feet wet with - #676 “The Right Way to Get your First 1,000 Customers” with Thales Teixeira, associate professor at Harvard Business School, believes many startups fail precisely because they try to emulate successful disruptive businesses. He says by focusing too early on technology and scale, entrepreneurs lose out on the learning that comes from serving initial customers with an imperfect product. He shares how Airbnb, Uber, Etsy, and Netflix approached their first 1,000 customers very differently, helping to explain why they have millions of customers today.

Kwik Brain with Jim Kwik

Hosted by brain and memory trainer Jim Kwik, this podcast will teach you all about how to turn your noggin into a super machine. If habits, biohacking, health, and productivity are your thing, you’ll dig this one.

Each episode is short and sweet (we’re talking 8-15 mins) and leave you with something to consider and put into action in your own life. Our picks: #130: “A Fail-Safe Tip to Creating a Habit with Ryan Levesque” and #124: “How to Fight Mental Fatigue with Dr. Oz”

Creative Pep Talk 

A personal favorite contributed by yours truly, this show is both hilarious and super informative. If you’re a creative of any kind, you’ll dig Andy’s tips for getting your work out there, branding, keeping your work fresh, identifying your gifts and tons more. 

Start with episode 170 "4 Creative Career Lessons that Changed My Life" and work your way through the 5-part Creative Career Path series that goes until #176. You'll gain a WHOLE new approach to piecing together your creative career. Saying this series changed my life is NOT an understatement.

The Pitch

Listen in to this one to hear real entrepreneurs pitch to real investors for real money. A bit like an intensified Shark Tank, following the processes presented in this show is a great way to learn about the whole pitching game. Bonus listening points if you’re into tech!

Goal Digger Podcast with Jenna Kutcher

Jenna offers actionable advice and valuable tips in diverse topics. From inspirational stories, to business hacks and social media strategy, this show will def leave you with a fresh buzz to make improvements in your biz. 

Something that really inspired us was Episode #271 “Why You Need A Blog”, Jenna shared how her entire business started simply by launching a free WordPress blog over eight years ago.

Online Marketing Made Easy with Amy Porterfield

Another personal favorite of mine, I turn to Amy with ALL my online biz qualms. While she covers a wide variety of topics in online business, I love her content around building your email listening, running ads and up-leveling your social media. If you’re a coach or teach online courses, you’ll *extra* benefit from these episodes.

I love her step by step process on building a promotional calendar in episode 183 and her pillars of content creation in #196. I also recommend listening to her interview with Tyler J. McCall (# 219) all about Instagram stories and building your email list.

She Did It Her Way

Hosted by Amanda Boleyn, this is another great show for covering all aspects of running a business. Amanda brings more of a life coach approach to her topics and will leave you super pumped to level-up. 

MUST LISTEN: Episode #337 “Do These 3 Things Before You Quit Your Job”

So there you have it. Chip away one episode at a time and you’re guaranteed to leave your daily commute or gym sesh bursting with new ideas.

 Now throw on a show, grab a latte and get moving!

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Written by Devon Walz. In addition to being a content creator for Sourced, Devon is mixed media fine artist and art educator. When she isn’t dreaming up new topics for the Sourced blog or chatting away with her co-workers, you can probably find her covered in paint and jamming out in her Santa Ana art studio. Find her on Instagram @devonwalzart and online at www.devonwalz.com.

Productivity Hacks

Productivity Hacks brought to you by SOURCED

Whether you’re working from home in your sweatpants or in a dedicated office space, we’ve all had those moments, days or even weeks when the struggle to focus is real!

No matter what type of industry or position you’re in, we all have calls to make, meetings to host, places to be, multiple project deadlines, and an email inbox that rarely (if ever) gets to that 0 unread point. So when time is money and it's time to focus, how can we stay focused to maximize our productivity & work efficiently?

I asked this question to the SOURCED community where #radpeoplework, and received a motherload of valuable tips and tools to set your work days up for success.

Here are some of our favorite Productivity Hacks from the SOURCED. crew:

Turn the Notifications Off!

Yeah, limiting distractions can be easier said than done- but did you know that every distraction can cost you 30 minutes!? (according to The Muse). So when you need to get in the zone, that means shutting off anything that can take you off track - even if just for a minute.

Here are some ways to help stop common distractions:

1. Turn on a daily social media limit via the “screen time” application on your phone

2. Delete social media apps off your phone completely until your work is done

3. Turn off all notifications or silence your phone so you won’t be distracted by texts from friends

4. Place your phone completely out of sight - if you can’t completely shut your phone off during the work day, placing it out of sight will help keep interruptions out of sight but allow you to still hear it if it starts ringing

Embrace a Tidy Space

When you walk through SOURCED and notice the blank desk spaces, open shelving and organizing containers - know this set-up is not just for the cute decor, it’s to create a productive place to work!

Here’s what we recommend to create a productive work space:

1. Keep your desk space tidy & decluttered - with less objects in your surroundings you’re less likely to get distracted!

2. Add some inspiring energy to your workspace with some plants, a nice view or decor that represents your creativity and personality! Just make sure it doesn’t add clutter.

3. If you’re like me and have not been able to create this kind of space at your main desk, then move to your favorite coworking space or cafe, and don’t leave until you’ve finished all the work you need to get done!

Work that Work Schedule

If you have the freedom to control your schedule, it’s easy to just not have a set schedule then. However, for the team at SOURCED, we’ve found that we are most productive when we actually do set a standard routine or set time batches - at least for the days when we need to stay productive.

Here’s how you can set a schedule:

1. Start work at the same time everyday

2. Schedule blocks by the hour or even by the day to focus on a specific project or set of tasks.

3. Put these time blocks on your calendar! Unless it’s on your calendar, it's basically imagery.

Give it a break!
To keep your full focus and energy, you need to take dedicated (aka. planned) breaks throughout the day. Reaching burnout or fatigue is not going to help you stay productive.

This is how we break up our days at SOURCED:

1. Take a walk

2. Eat! Don’t work through your lunch or snack breaks, instead use this time to shut off for a bit

3. Dance party!

4. Journaling

Truth: As you can see, we all work a little bit differently and it may take some trial and error to see what productivity hacks will work best for you - so the next time you’re unable to focus, give one of our SOURCED hacks a try and get back in your productivity groove!

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Written by Nicole Prybula.

Nicole is a Corporate Event Producer that loves turning a standard business meeting into an impactful brand experience that attendees fall in love with. If Nicole isn't soaking up inspiration working with her co-workers at Sourced, it's because she's traveling and working from a cafe on the other side of the world. Find her online at www.cultivatedexperiences.com and follow her adventures on Instagram at @cultivatedexperiences

My Art Residency at SOURCED + Why Programs Like This Are Essential for Emerging Artists

Resident Artist Devon Walz, 2019

When I walked into Sourced for the first time and met Michelle and the studio manager, Jaclyn, I was on the nervous side. Talking about my art and meeting new people has never been the most comfortable for me.

But the first thing I noticed was how warm and welcoming they were. How adorable and love-filled the space was. And how much they were genuinely interested in my story and excited to create an event that would celebrate the series of work I’d spent so long working on.

I felt instantly at home and this really set the tone for the two months I would spend as the artist in residence here.

Before applying to the program, I was feeling lost about my next steps as an artist. I had a body of work almost completed that I felt proud of, but I didn’t know where or how I would show it.

I had an active online presence and did okay selling my work here and there, but I felt isolated in my day-to-day experience. I didn’t know how to plug into my local community or gain any more traction beyond what I was already doing.

I wanted to start actually being an artist in spaces other than my little art studio and my own online platform. I was craving support, community and growth.

The residency at Sourced gave me exactly that.

During my time here, not only did I get to have my first solo show during Art Walk (which was crazy fun and SO well put together thanks to the imaginative Sourced team), but I was supported in the specific ways I was looking grow.

I was given guidance as to how to start reaching out to related businesses in the community, which helped me get way more comfortable building connections. And I nailed a studio visit as a result!

I was able to do a mural on site with total trust and creative freedom (thanks Michelle!). This was a dream come true and added incredible value to my portfolio. The project also opened up a ton of inspiration and big ideas for me-- it may have been my favorite part!

And I made some amazing friends through it all.

Mural by Devon Walz during her artist residency at SOURCED.

If you’re an artist, you probably already know that the opportunity for a solo show is a big deal.

But what’s an even bigger deal is finding a group of people to support you, cheer you on, encourage your creative ideas, help you brainstorm and introduce you to a friend of a friend who needs a custom piece or who has a space to show some work.

Relationships are your most valuable asset as a developing artist.

But they can also feel the most daunting to build when you have no idea where to start or who to talk to.

This is where programs like the residency at SOURCED. are providing something SO important for emerging artists: a place to root into and grow outward from.

I can honestly say that I feel so much more confident in my place as a local artist after my time here.

If you’re a local artist who’s feeling stagnant like I was, I hope you’ll apply to this program. It will push you to get your body of work together, give you an opportunity to meet some lovely new people and propel you forward in your next steps.

As a past resident who’s stayed on board with the community (because I couldn’t imagine leaving it!), I’ll be SO excited to meet you, grab a coffee and chat about all things art.

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Written by Devon Walz. In addition to being a content creator for Sourced, Devon is mixed media fine artist and art educator. When she isn’t dreaming up new topics for the Sourced blog or chatting away with her co-workers, you can probably find her covered in paint and jamming out in her Santa Ana art studio. Find her on Instagram @devonwalzart and online at www.devonwalz.com.

Meet the Co-workers: A Conversation with Jaclyn Florescio of Yellow and Lace

When I walk into SOURCED. and see Jac set up with her laptop, I light up because I know it’s going to be a fun day.

Not only is Jaclyn a seriously talented artist, but she’s become my biz bestie in the office (we can pass HOURS chatting strategy, art, jokes, just about anything).  She also has a killer eye for design. When I need visual feedback on anything at all, Jac’s who I call.

Jaclyn runs a one-woman design and illustration company called Yellow and Lace where she does a little bit of everything: wedding invitations, custom paintings, typography and more. She’s a hard worker, loving officemate and can draw just about anything...in any style.

Taken from @yellowandlace

I hope you enjoy getting to know her as I have. Without further ado- here’s my convo with Jac!

What is your favorite kind of project to work on? And with who?

In general, I like projects that require intentional planning and creativity.  From mocking up PDF presentations (yes, I was that girl who was stoked to make her own powerpoint) to an invitation suite.   One project may be more graphic design heavy and the other is more focused on illustration, but both require thoughtful planning.  Whether it's through placement of shapes and text or illustration and painting, my job is to communicate what needs to be communicated.    Anyway, lately invitations have been a lot of fun and mainly because it's illustration heavy and the clients I have worked with want to invest in my creativity and skills.  

What is the best thing about being a one-woman small biz?

I get to work in my pajamas, don't have to shower, and can sleep during my break.  haha I'm joking (kind of). I've never been great at getting to work on time. I am a creative at heart and if you're a fellow creative, it's difficult to turn creativity on and off whenever you want.  My creativity usually comes out in the wee hours of the night, which means when you're waking up, I am probably just about to go to bed. So I guess that's what I like about being a one-woman small biz, I create my own schedule and am not pressured to clock into work!

What have you found to be the most challenging thing about it?

However, with that being said, creating a routine is very difficult for me.   And a lot of people say that they start their own business because they want more freedom; however, you quickly learn that routine and having a schedule is VERY crucial.  One can get caught up in the "freedom" and really waste a lot of time. Another challenge is that you end up wearing so many hats, it can be a bit overwhelming to work. I end up spending more time on the business side of things that actually creating. Just because I wanted to start a business making art, did not mean that I knew how to  run an actual business. I didn't know how to make contracts and invoices. You learn a lot about those things (the hard way) as you go.

What are your co-working day essentials and favorite tools?

Laptop

iphone and ipad

Sketchbook and pencil

(and coffee)

What do you love most about co-working at Sourced?

Uhh, we're right next to the beach.  There is nothing more inspiring than nature.  I like that I get to be around other creatives!  It's nice to know there are a lot of people just like me going through the same struggles I am in their own businesses/work.   We have so many different kinds of creatives here, so basically we morph into one giant dream team and create some very memorable events.  Speaking of events, I like working here because I get to experience the "office work party" Doing your own thing can be super lonely and isolating.  When I work from home, the only person I end up talking to is my dog. I mean she loves me and all, but she can't really give me business advice or critique my work.   I can count on her for emotional support though.

You can dive deeper into Jaclyn’s world by following her on Instagram @yellowandlace and visiting her website  http://www.yellowandlace.com.

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Written by Devon Walz. In addition to being a content creator for Sourced, Devon is mixed media fine artist and art educator. When she isn’t dreaming up new topics for the Sourced blog or chatting away with her co-workers, you can probably find her covered in paint and jamming out in her Santa Ana art studio. Find her on Instagram @devonwalzart and online at www.devonwalz.com.

Photos by Riley Starr Photo

Creativity, Joy and Cheese: Charcuterie and Cheese Platter Building Workshop by Noel Morton on 5/25

The workshop day begins with local personal chef, Noel Moton and her husband turning bare tables into works of ART. The overflow of grapes and chocolate and nuts and cheese reminds me of something a Greek Goddess would order for lunch.

When I asked Noel about how her speciality in cheese platters came about, it sounds like one big story of synchronicity. Working as personal chef and in restaurants led to a request for a cheese platter, which she’d never done before. But once she dove in, she was hooked.

“Creating cheese platters and large grazing tables really fulfilled a creative aspect that I didn’t have before,” she explained.

As people start to trickle in to the workshop their faces light up at the sight of the color-filled tables. They can’t help but start snapping photos from all angles (there’s 32 different items on each table and they are TRULY photogenic). They’re bustling with excitement to touch and taste and play with everything they’re seeing.

During set up Noel had mentioned that she loves teaching these workshops because she gets to see people get really excited about making cheese platters.

“It’s a connection and reward that you don’t get when you’re in a back kitchen sending food out.”

I’m now seeing exactly what she meant. The room is bubbling with joy and anticipation now that everyone’s arrived.

Seats are taken and we’re ready to officially begin.

Noel starts off with a break down of all the cheeses while participants indulge in some tasting.

Next up is the meat selection. Then onto jam and fruit. Nuts and chocolate.

Each ingredient has a story and is sourced with careful intention on Noel’s part. The peach jam is from Georgia, made with real Georgia peaches. The meat comes from an Italian deli, which she swears is the best place to get it by far.

Now, it’s time to start building!

Noel takes tackles any potential overwhelm by breaking everything down by shape and size, allowing for easeful creative choices and personalization to come about in the process.

You can see each person become more confident as each layer is created, and people really start to play and make it their own as the platters begin to take shape.

By the end of it all there are 15 unique and GORGEOUS cheese platters and 15 proud, smiling faces. Everyone seems incredibly delighted with their result and once again, the cameras are going off.

Noel, too, is beaming with pride. I can tell how much she loves what she does.

All in all, the workshop seemed to fly by!

But, then again, how can it not when you’re surrounded by laughter, creativity and dedicant tables of fruit and chocolate and cheese?

A big thank you to Noel Moton for bringing the joy of food (that’s really art) to SOURCED. We can’t wait to have you again for the next workshop in June.

Want to come for a joy-filled day of beauty, food and creating? Mark your calendar for June 30th - signup here!

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Written by Devon Walz. In addition to being a content creator for Sourced, Devon is mixed media fine artist and art educator. When she isn’t dreaming up new topics for the Sourced blog or chatting away with her co-workers, you can probably find her covered in paint and jamming out in her Santa Ana art studio. Find her on Instagram @devonwalzart and online at www.devonwalz.com.

3 FREE Tools Every Event Planner Needs by Cultivated Experiences

I’ve spent the last 6 years working in the corporate events world, and in that time have produced 100+ events worldwide. Over the years, I’ve tried out tons of different tools forced upon us by upper-management to try to improve team communications and “make our jobs easier.''

It wasn’t until I left the 9-5 corporate america world and launched my own online agency offering corporate event planning and design services, that I learned how important and valuable these tools can actually be to establish systems and processes that will enable you work more efficiently! Now I can’t live without my favorite tools!

After launching Cultivated Experiences one year ago, I started from scratch to find the best tools for planning events, in order to give me back the time to be more creative and focus on the overarching role of running the business.

So from the beginning planning stages to the execution, I’m excited to share 3 FREE and useful tools that any Event Planner can start using today to cultivate the most dreamy and flawless events.

1. Peerspace Finding the right event venue can make or break your event.

The venue defines the entire ambiance, flow, aesthetic, and budget of your event. Not to mention it’ll also be the backdrop of literally every event photo.

That’s why one of my goals during every venue search is to find the most unique event spaces that will excite attendees and add a wow factor to the event. Peerspace has been the best tool for finding such spaces!

Peerspace is basically Airbnb, but instead of houses it is a marketplace of event spaces available for rent by the hour.

With thousands of listings, Peerspace has venues to fit any type of event, whether corporate or social, with a search tool that makes it easy to filter by attendee size, price, location and more to help narrow down your search.

After you’ve narrowed down your search, each listing includes photos of the space, reviews, and listed amenities up front, so you can easily evaluate and know right away if the venue can work or not.

What I love most is the ability to message the host and communicate directly within the app! This is great to help cut down on emails (god knows we all get enough of those), and keeps all of your communications in one spot to easily go back and reference as needed.

Between the concise listings, unique spaces and easy communications - Peerspace has saved me so much time during my venue hunts.

To see what I’m talking about, check out Sourced’s listing on Peerspace here.

Talk about a dreamy space!

2. Asana

Most of the time, event planning feels just like project management.

Between each event are multiple tasks, vendors and teams to collaborate with, and deadlines that MUST be met in order to meet the ultimate deadline - the day of the event.

So for any event planner, an efficient project management tool is essential.

There are a ton of different project management tools out there, and I’ve dabbled with a few, but my favorite by far has been Asana.

Asana makes it easy to organize, sort and manage all of your project timelines by creating workflows and the ability to list each project task with a deadline. Best of all, you can set automatic reminder notifications for any deadline to make sure it is never missed.

In addition, by adding other team members or a client to a project, you can assign out tasks, as well as comment on them within the project timeline to keep communications concise and in one place.

So whether checking by the day, week or project, Asana makes it easy to view all of your current to-dos while making sure you stay caught up on your deadlines.

3. Canva
From crafting event invitations, sponsorship kits, social media graphics, and speaker biographies to entire conference booklets, Canva, an online graphic creating platform, has been a life saver for producing beautiful designs and graphics.

The beauty of Canva is the thousands of templates and design ideas that you can easily use and customize for your event assets.

Whether you choose to use a template or want to start from scratch, Canva makes it easy to create or edit any graphic within the tool, and then easily download to various print ready formats.

So if you don’t have the budget to hire a real designer, hire Canva.

In summary, what I’ve learned when planning any type of event is you need first, a great space that will inspire your audience and enable them to connect to the event’s key takeaways and messaging. You also have to stay organized to keep up on deadlines, move from project to project, and even re-create the success from a past event more seamlessly. Last, you have to understand marketing, messaging and design, and be able to create unique assets that represent the brand and attract people to attend the event.

Devon Walz "Inner Space" Art Walk Showcase

We got all kinds of introspective for our April Art Walk showcase with our resident artist, Devon Walz. Adult face painting, poetry on demand, and good cheer - Devon Walz shares her experience.

“My favorite part of the evening was getting to watch which paintings spoke to people and caused them to pause for an extra moment. When I'm in my studio alone I can only see the pieces through my own eyes. But during the art walk I got to see how other people experience them and what the favorites were. That was really special for me.

Other than that, the coolest thing about the night was getting to see Inner Space become an interactive event. What started as just an idea in my head and something very internal (by nature of the subject) not only became a collection of paintings, but  a whole environment (thanks Michelle and Jaclyn!). Every touch of the evening-- the quotes on the mirrors, the face painting, the signs and words written in chalk-- brought the concept more  to life. More of something for people to connect with. I couldn't have dreamed up how to do that if I tried and I really walked away from the night with new reverence for the power of collaboration.” - Resident Artist, Devon Walz

Thank you to our friends for a kickass event:

Sponsored kombucha from Brew Dr Kombucha

Adult Face Painting by Yellow & Lace

Poetry on Demand by Hailley Howard

Event planning by SOURCED.

May Pop Up Market!

Our May Pop Up was all about macarons, coconuts, and so many new friends!

No shortage of thoughtful handmade gifts for Mom (or yourself ;) at our last Pop Up Market this past Saturday, May 12th! Jaclyn of Yellow & Lace lead our free DIY craft bar with these adorable yarn heart cards we found on Pinterest. I loved seeing everyone, of all ages, tap into their inner creative child and exploring play. I couldn't help but feel warm thinking of all the handmade cards and love notes that went out into the world after this special day. 

Set up outside was OC Ecodesigns with a variety of metal succulent & floral arrangements of all shapes and sizes! The patina on these pieces are so beautiful and had me thinking they must only get more attractive with age. 

Husband & wife team, Maison Esperluette were a total hit with their incredible French macarons with flavors like Chocolate Raspberry Chambord, Piña Colada, and Lavender - they had 12 different flavors in total, absolutely impossible to pick a favorite. 

Coco Vinny of Coco Taps set the island vibe with his ukulele serenades & freshly tapped natural coconuts. He demonstrated his coconut opening tool on our vintage tiki bar like he did on Shark Tank & everyone was blown away by this Eco Inventor's mission to change the world, one tapped coco at a time! 

Inside was Yuwei from Yuwei Designs who displayed her newest Spring jewelry collection straight from Bali, and Bama from Sixth & Co. debuted her newest custom lined sarape jackets. The perfect added layer for a beach day with one of their killer all-in-one blanket beach bags they're famous for!

It was the first Pop Up for Jess of Ox and Nag and she transformed the space with her newest collection of desert jewel tone macrame pieces; from plant hangers, coasters, to intricate backdrops. It was great to finally put a face to the name with Abbie Naber, of A. Naber Design, known for her instagram swoon worthy interior design projects. She popped up with her handmade pillows & the softest vintage textile and sherpa blankets you've ever felt.

Joining us again was our Laguna neighbor, Andrea from Laguna Herbals, with her full line of beauty & skincare using only the highest quality natural and organic ingredients.  All of Laguna Herbals' ingredients are plant or mineral based and ditch any harmful or questionable chemicals found in most commercial beauty products.

Robert Brink of The Hundredth Acre, had his 100% soy wax candles handpoured here in Laguna. It's standard that he's usually the first one here setting up for the day with a pipping hot tea & lights one of his candles within minutes of putting the first box down. We love him and the scent memories his candles are telling here. 

Alex of Vibe Catchers was purposely set up right by the window allowing the afternoon sun to dance across her feng shui inspired pieces. We learned more about these impressive crystal & sacred geometry adornments as equal parts healing tools and spiritual art mementos. We all loved hearing each story of all the different pieces. 

We met Kristy of Mountain Gypsea for the first time and loved learning more about her eco-friendly jewelry. I was enchanted by her tale of pursuing her desire to downsize, ditching her 9 to 5 gig, and driving out west to California to follow her passion of starting her own jewelry line out of the back of her Subaru. So inspiring. We truly do attract the most incredible people.

We look forward to our next event on Saturday, June 16th! We hope you'll join us, friends!

We host these Pop Up Markets monthly here at our Laguna Beach studio. If you're interested in joining us as a vendor, you can find out more information here. 

Maker's Brunch recap

We hosted our first "Maker's Brunch" back in late January and honestly I've been thinking about it almost every day since.

The idea for this type of workshop or meet-up was presented to me at one of our Pop Up Market's by Nicolette of Bird Bath Body Treats. Nicolette expressed her desire to have MORE with her fellow pop up vendors. We all agree that the biggest take away from those events always tends to be the new friends you pop next to. She painted the picture of "Wouldn't it be so great if we had a day to come together outside of these pop ups and share resources and gain more..."

At the end of 2017, we had "popped up" on 20 different occasions here in Laguna Beach and just recently announced our expansion to San Clemente in 2018. The Maker's Brunch was filled with friends & businesses we believed in and knew intimately from these events. We started the brunch off with mimosas, yummy Trader Joe brunch snacks, and each person giving their "elevator pitch" - how they would describe themselves and their business to a new potential customer or retailer. Then a second verison...a little deeper, a little more of their WHY. Their personal story that had them take the leap toward entrepeurship and pursuing something they loved. 

This round about sharing really set the tone for the level of honesty and transparency this group brought to the table. Everyone was open with their successes and struggles with starting and running their own businesses. There was a lot of roaring laughter, clapping in encouragement, and tears shed both out of joy & with a deep breath of feeling heard and supported.

When planning this first Brunch, I had surveyed the group on what topics or marketing tools they would like to dive deeper into. The outcome was social media (mainly Instagram), creating line sheets, and how to take better camera phone photos. I asked my friend and rockstar photographer, Molly Goodman to join me in presenting this group with what worked for us in our growing businesses. 

We first started with an overview look at instagram and the new changes to expect in the New Year. I shared one of my mentors, Tyler McCall's Instagram trends and predictions report.  Next we broke into two groups: those who wanted to focus on learning more about wholesale line sheets and those who wanted to focus on iPhone photography. Half the group stayed inside with me, and we went over what a line sheet was (yes, that basic), how to make one, and what 7 mistakes to avoid when you start using it to attract new potential retailers. The other half of the group ventured outside with photographer Molly Goodman who shared her tips for "Photography for the Rest of Us" (meaning us non-photographers) that went over lighting, composition, and editing. 

We went way over the time we imagined, but it felt so rich. So soul-fulfilling. We look forward to starting a 3-part-series this month called "Makers & Shakers Series" - set up as two separate programs: one for Maker's - those with product based businesses and one for Shaker's - those with service based businesses. Over the next three months, we look forward to exploring the power of using Instagram & email marketing to increase sales and achieve your business goals. Hope you'll join us! Learn more here. 

Shine on,

Michelle

November Pop Up Market!

Recap of our November Pop Up Market!

It was a BIG, bright beautiful day for our November Pop Up Market. Our new friends, Luna Noel, set up our DIY Craft Bar with foraged herbs, sages, + foliage from Tahoe, Santa Barbara, Lavender from her Grandma's backyard locally here in Laguna Beach. It was pretty special. Can't wait for you to see!

We had kids laughing, puppies, champagne, Fleetwood Mac, dream catchers, precious stones, and rainbows. For real.

Vendor friends included the man, the myth, the legend...Robert Brink from The Hundredth Acres with his full candle line. Precious stone jewelry from Mayu Jewelry, modern day talismans from Vibe Catchers, boho inspired glam jewelry from Truly Blessed Jewelry, travel & vintage goods from Hartley Cash, and our favorite "shop within the shop" Kristin Lewis from The Garage Collective brought a curated lot of her favorite holiday gifts and pieces from her shop here in town. 

These blessed days just become brighter and more colorful with the new friends we met along the way. When we transitioned SOURCED. almost two years ago now from part retail shop / part creative office space to all office space, I was fearful we would loose some of the community vibe. That was dumb. We've only grown bigger & with more intention since those days. This was Pop Up number 18 in our books and by the end of 2018 we will have had 20 Pop Up's under our belt. The amount of makers, artisans, and new friends we've gained from these events is truly one of my greatest joys. Thank you for your continued support in us, in them, and this Laguna Beach community as a whole. See you in December!  

A little artist made this on our pathway. My heart.

All photos by our officemates & creative dream team Neighborhood Creative

We look forward to seeing you at our next 2 HOLIDAY Pop Up's on Saturday, December 16th & Sunday, December 17th! Interested in showcasing with us?

RAD! We'd love to have you! Check out our Artisan Pop Up page for more details! 

SOURCED. four year anniversary party!

F O U R   Y E A R S   Y O U N G.

We landed on a Speakeasy theme for our 4 year Anniversary party this year. Invitations were a collaborative effort between Ali Rybczyk and Eddie Rios and were sent to 50 plus past & present officemates and close friends that have called SOURCED. home. 

Guests received digital e-vites and were given individual prohibition slang "passwords" for entry.  They were told to dress up in their best glad rags. Our grifter doorman took post at our 1920's cottage ushering guests in with a stern look and asked for their password. 

Guests then were told about the gambling table rules ($2 bill hands at Left, Right, Center) & tattoo parlor (with temporary tattoos from Tattly, the only way to get re-entry into the party was by showing your ink).

Ali Rybczyk painted a larger than life cocktail menu to showcase the Bootlegger Cocktails offered by Vacation Bar & Ford's Gin. Guests had the option of three sassy gin cocktails served in vintage glassware, which paired nicely with bluesy melodies spun by DJ Nacor ranging from Nina Simone to Blood Orange and Toto. 

Marty McFly with Ford's Gin, Bianco Vermouth, Orange Bitters, 

Balm So Hard with Ford's Gin, Blessed Booch Elderflower & Lemon Balm, Lemon, Sparkling Wine

Son of a Bee Sting with Ford's Gin, Lemon, Honey, Ginger, Rosewater

Photographer Mitch Maher turned one of our office nooks into a portrait den capturing the smiles of the people we love so dearly. 

Our pitched roof was washed in shades of pink, yellow, and purple as guests mixed and mingled. It wasn't long until everyone was under the influence of the giggle water and stomping away on the dance floor. The night ended up with impromptu speech, happy tears, a last dance to Fleetwood Mac's "Gypsy"...well and THEN a serenade of "my neck, my back". Because well...that's just us. 

Thank you to everyone that joined us for this special night!