tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-315159342024-03-05T05:14:28.928-06:00Milkface Nursingwear IncWhat's new and on my mind at milkfacemilkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.comBlogger84125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-76356904086387425272010-04-01T09:33:00.002-06:002010-04-01T10:05:32.644-06:00Shotguns or Lasers?Over the past few years we have used the shotgun approach to sharing our thoughts and ideas and promotions over the new, social media of the internet. This blog, Facebook, Youtube, e-newsletters, Twitter and others I can't even remember. Truth is, as we tried to do it all we put out material less frequently and of lesser quality. Milkface has never been a place for the masses. We serve a very small niche of the population. Shotguns won't work anymore.<br /><br />This will be our last blog post. We feel that by thrying to share "the word" about breastfeeding and babywearing to all, we are missing opportunities the give important information to those who want and need it. We have long left Twitter (without any announcement) as we felt that there was just too much "noise" there and our messages were being lost in the hoarde.<br /><br />Moving on, we have decided to increase our use of facebook to get out messages on what's making news in the babywearing and breastfeeding worlds as well as promotions in store. Facebook sems to be a great way to get immediate news out to you while allowing you to share your thoughts - which we encourage. Visit us at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ottawa-ON/Milkface-Nursingwear/20852872688?ref=ts">our facebook page</a> and become a fan today! In addition, we will continue our twice-monthly email newsletters that we continue to get great feedback on. If you're not receiving our emails, head over to <a href="http://www.milkface.com">milkface.com</a> and enter your email address in the field at the top of the page and that's it!<br /><br />Thanks to all who have followed us here and to those who took the time to share with us your thoughts and opinions. Let's continue our relationship, just in a different venue.<br /><br />Signing off,<br />The Milkface Mamamilkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-17552806844363706072010-01-27T11:36:00.003-06:002010-02-10T10:21:06.591-06:00It was bound to happen...It happened a while ago. A mom was in store with her newborn babe in a car seat carrier. Mom was rushed and moving from one area of the store to another. Baby was peacefully enjoying mom's voice and the milkface decor. There was a crash followed by the baby's cries. The baby had fallen from the car seat and was on the floor. This unfortunate event happens more than we think, but often in the privacy of one's own home, not in front of an audience of other moms and an IBCLC. What would people say? What would they think?<br /><br />No doubt, mom was feeling embarrassed. Judged. In a moment none of that mattered though, she went into immediate mom mode and responded to her child with soothing words, comfort food in the form of breastmilk and an inspection that only a mom could do - looking for anything that was different than the last time her eyes looked upon her child. Visibly, all was OK. The baby returned to a peaceful state in less than five minutes but mom was in a state that would take longer to calm. The others who were witness to, or aware of the event, came to the aid of their fellow mom in her time of need. Words of assurance were shared. Empathetic responses offered. This mom learned that this horrible thing that had happened - that she blamed herself for - was actually not that uncommon.<br /><br />Has every mother dropped her baby? No, but it is say to say that many children have found themselves in harm's way as mom or dad was busy, distracted or just in a rush. This mom learned a lot on this day. She'll make mistakes. She'll be forgiven. She be supported. It will be OK in the end.<br /><br />Days later, mom called the store to offer her thanks and to let us all know that, to ease her mind, a doctor's visit followed the event and the baby was fine. Baby won't ever remember that day at milkface. Mom will never forget. <br /><br />If you've had a day like this mom, or if your day is yet to come, don't get down on yourself. You're not a bad parent and you're not alone. Be brave to start the conversation with your other mom friends and you'll find we've all had that day in some degree.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-40204695234043493712009-11-17T10:53:00.002-06:002009-11-17T10:56:14.399-06:00The Use of Social Media by Formula CompaniesAnnie, at www.phdinparenting.com has been looking deeply into the issue of Nestle's use of social media to reach new moms. She has asked for input on the question "How should Neslte use social media?" We thought we'd add our thoughts. Read them below.<br /><br /><br /><strong>From Mr. Milkface</strong><br />I believe that Nestle will act in its own best interests and on behalf of shareholders who demand a return on their investments. The benefits of breastfeeding are well known to those who choose to educate themselves, but among those benefits you won't find the word profit. Nestle chooses to associate itself with breastfeeding because it is the socially acceptable thing to do. They continue to violate the WHO code because it is profitable. Their motives are apparent. Their actions reprehensible.<br /><br />As seen with the H1N1 issue, people will believe some outrageous claims when it comes to health. If they read it, it must be true. The motives for the claim (profit) are rarely considered when judging the veracity of the claim. The qualifications of the claimant aren't scrutinized. If the claim was on a professional looking website it is taken as gospel and a paypal transaction is completed. <br /><br />Now the good news... I am a publisher, a blogger, a reporter and a marketing department with global reach. Fortunately, the same social media the formula companies employ to get their word out can be used against them. Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, et al allow those of us with no marketing budget to face off on even terms with massive corporations with equally massive marketing budgets. Our comments appear side-by-side with theirs, all around the world. The biggest challenge in this face off is to ensure those who are passionate about educating the benefits of breastfeeding remain passion free in their posts. Logic and consistent messaging will win over new moms seeking answers. Passionate rants make us look like the lunatic fringe. The marketing departments of Nestle understand this too well. For those who want nothing more than to educate new moms of the benefits of breastfeeding, this is one time we need to be just like the formula companies.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-46065452210861229522009-11-17T09:41:00.002-06:002009-11-17T10:00:31.424-06:00You got to know when to fold 'em.The City of Ottawa and OC Transpo will start enforcing a rule that requires you to fold strollers on the bus starting April 2010.( http://www.ottawasun.com/news/ottawa/2009/11/14/11748021.html )<br /><br />A year ago the city was left in distress when a transit strike forced us all to seek alternative ways to get around this great city - or stay home. In fall they eliminated a number of popular routes forcing riders to transfer when they used to ride direct. Recently they threatened to remove the student savings benefit from those who were too old - you know, those who lost their jobs and were looking to better themselves by improving their education. Just weeks ago they announced a rate increase for all riders. Now they want to make it harder for new moms. Were OC Transpo not a monopoly, their treatment of their customers would put them out of business.<br /><br />While we advocate the use of carriers we recognize the value of strollers in certain situations. We'll let OC Transpo know how we feel about their planned treatment of new moms and so should you.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-8786564337491590562009-10-22T13:11:00.002-06:002009-10-22T13:29:23.732-06:00Another AnniversaryWe have passed the 1st anniversary of our winning of the LIVE 88.5 Pimp My Biz marketing prize. We have detailed a great deal of our experiences, especially the early events, here in our blog. Now, 12 months later, we have a review of our overall experience.<br /><br />The prize was for $50,000 in marketing services. 10K in radio spots at LIVE 88.5FM here in Ottawa, 10K in the Metro News, 10K in graphics for the store and a vehicle wrap from K6 Media, 5K in web spots with Ottawakiosk.com and 15K in marketing consultancy with the Curam Group. We knew a new store was coming and wanted to save the radio, print and graphics for that purpose. All these companies came through, provided services as advertised and were great to work with. The remaining services, the web work, we were ready for immediately. It didn't quite work out that way.<br /><br />Ottawakiosk, just weeks ago, started to run our classified-style ads. Banner work is still in the draft stage but should be up in a few days. The marketing/web consultancy service from the Curam Group has been a nightmare. After less than 3 hours of meetings, they have abandoned us and their commitment to the prize. Calls and emails do not get returned by Greg, the top dog and contest contact at Curam. Seriously unprofessional service.<br /><br />Here's our dilemma. Should we be satisfied with a $35,000 win when $50,000 was advertised or should we expect more - the full array of services as announced? Imagine winning the lottery - say $2mil. You spend all day Sunday thinking about the win and how you'll improve yourself and those around you with the winnings. Now, on Monday when you go to cash in your ticket you learn that you were not the only winning number and you have to share money. A win is great but is now slightly tarnished now that you can't do all those things you planned.<br /><br />Ho would you feel and what would you do? Let us know.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-26490735974511704862009-10-13T14:42:00.002-06:002009-10-13T14:53:58.943-06:00It's Our AnniversaryWritten by Mr. Milkface...<br /><br />Eight years ago today, my life changed in ways I could never imagine. In a Port Hope B&B, I exchanged marital vows with Britt and continued the journey that started many months earlier when we first met. It has been eight years of love, joy, laughs and hard work. In March, 2008 Britt and I wrote about our relationship as co-workers. Our words of some 18 months ago still ring true so I'll shre them again with you today.<br /><br />Today's question - What's it like working with your partner? <br /><br />Andy says: <br />Hi. My name is Andy and I work with my wife. I left a successful real estate practice with five years of award winning achievements, at the peak of a strong market to do so. Before we start 12 step treatment, I'll tell you why I went where others fear to go.<br /><br />I have been working with my wife since the day I met her. Our relationship is natural and rewarding but to say it has been effortless would be delusional fantasy - it's been work. Life goals, family planning, household finances, and daily interactions all require effort. It often feels easy because we work well together, employing complimentary skill sets to achieve, and often surpass, our mutual and individual goals. There have been days when it was a challenge but I have never had a day when I woke up without being thankful that I have this job and that I work with the best partner anyone could ask for. When the opportunity to extend our working relationship into the conventional workplace became available it was an easy choice and one without regret. We are early in our new working relationship but it seems to be as fulfilling and rewarding as the one we started the day we met. I like working with my wife and look forward to where this new dynamic will take us. <br /><br />Britt says:<br />Andy and I met when we were working together (and I imagine that's the same for many of you!) and in some ways, it feels like we've been working together ever since. Parenting our 3 girls is definitely a labour of love and we are partners in that.<br /><br />Working together at Milkface was always part of our master plan. Andy's role was always a bit hazy (what will a man do with breastfeeding moms?!) but we're figuring it out. As the business has grown, we've discovered a need for concentration on things like marketing and expansion that Andy can do just as well, if not better, than I. I'm really grateful that we're growing a true family business and hope that the girls will join us in it in time. <br /><br />Working together means there's never a true seperation of work and home - if one of us has a great idea at midnight, our business partner is right there to discuss it. On the flip side, when we have a rare night out, business talk is hard to shelve!<br /><br />I would say that working with your spouse is a lot like being married to your spouse - wonderful, frustrating, enjoyable, maddening with lots of up and downs!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Later this week we have another anniversary but that story is far less joyous. Check back next week for all the details.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-40902484974470160852009-10-06T08:10:00.002-06:002009-10-06T08:21:01.119-06:00H1N1 Trumps 2009 Breastfeeding ChallengeThis weekend's Breastfeeding Challenge saw breastfeeding moms and their babes around the world achieve a simultaneous nursing session in the effort to raise awareness of the benefits of breatsfeeding and the rights of those who breastfeed in public. Reports from Ottawa and around the world show a significant decline in attendees this year, a fact that is believed to be attributable to the H1N1 virus and fears of infection at public gatherings. The Montreal Challenge was cancelled specifically for this reason. <br /><br />We'd like to thank all who attended their local event and all those who were there in spirit and participating at their home our wherever they may have been. Milkface was a sponsor or donor to a number of Canadian Challenges and we were proud to be a part of these efforts. For organizers of 2010 Challenges, let us know how we can help and be a part of your event. Together we're making the world a better, healthier place.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-68196527000255603732009-09-22T08:52:00.003-06:002009-09-22T09:19:38.413-06:00What's New?What's new in the ages old practice of breastfeeding and babywearing? Surprisingly, quite a bit. We've recently returned from The All Baby and Child (ABC) Expo in Las Vegas, North America's largest convention of all things baby and child. We met with many of our existing suppliers (Boob, Medela, Bravado, Ergo, Beco, Nummies and more) and we're happy to see your favourite products will still be offered and some new products are coming soon as well. Some even shared some secret products that are in prototype development and we've been asked to comment and possibly test these products before they come to market and no, we can't talk about them!<br /><br />In addition to new items from old friends, we came across some new items that we're excited to be bringing to milkface and you. Larrivo offers a great line of nursing camisoles and chemises that are being worn but some A-List celeb moms. You'll love the simple design and attractive prints offered by Larrivo. Watch the website for the arrival date. The Sleepy Wrap caught our eye too! Some might see it as just another stretchy wrap but it's use of french terry fabric makes it different and worthy of standing beside our other carriers. Lastly, a new portable nursing pillow from Huggabees will make nursing on the go easier for every mom. This purse-sized pillow slips over your hand, resting on your forearm giving your babe a comfortable place for a quick snack or a marathon feeding. It will take pressure off mom's arm too. <br /><br />We're anxiously waiting for deliveries to arrive and will let you know about it when they do. Visit www.milkface.com often.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-85020427260307902902009-08-27T10:50:00.003-06:002009-08-27T11:30:12.903-06:00Back to School - Ottawa Parents Beware<span style="font-weight:bold;">In Ottawa, Your Child is a Speedbump</span><br /><br />Renovations are ongoing at the property next to the milkface Westboro store at 385 Danforth Ave. The owners are converting a century home into a daycare facility. To maximize their use of the land they applied to the city of Ottawa to provide less parking than is standard for such a use in this area. The owners hope to have 25-40 kids in this building based on conversations with the owner.<br /><br />Any such application allows the public to object before a decision is made. Well, Mr. Milkface wrote to the city suggesting the morning and late afternoon traffic during drop-off and pick-up would be an excessive strain on a street that is barely adequate for the existing businesses. The lack of adequate parking would only exacerbate the problem as inconsiderate parents park illegally "just for a second". After a few weeks a response was received.<br /><br />Seems we were the only objection to the application. Our points were are rebuked and the application was granted. The city gets a cash in lieu of parking fee of about $8000 and likely increased tax revenues given the extra square footage of the new property.<br /><br />In the justification for the decision, one sentence stood out as particularly outrageous. <span style="font-weight:bold;">"Having additional parents with children (walking) in the area could have the beneficial effect of further calming driver behaviour as they navigate across an area that already has significant pedestrian flows."<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span> <br /><br />A speed bump is a traffic calming feature. A speed trap fulfills the same function. A child walking on a street without sidewalks is not and should never been seen as such. <br /><br />As a parent of three who make the walk to and from school more days than not, I think this view of pedestrians as traffic calming features is unacceptable and extremely dangerous. Too often we say "How many have to die or be hurt before a (specific) change is made?" In this case, we never wanted a change. We only asked that the situation for us, our customers and the users of Danforth Ave. not get worse. I guess the City of Ottawa sees the risk as acceptable and worth $8,547.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-21751150491277747802009-08-10T10:32:00.005-06:002009-08-10T17:50:14.178-06:00The Bizarro World of BreastfeedingThere are numerous debates about breastfeeding that exist throughout the world - and those are among those of us who are supporters, practitioners and fans. One thing I think we can all agree on is that formula companies need to just shut up.<br /><br />The WHO Code violations are numerous and well reported outside of the traditional mainstream media but the continuing trend of formula companies offering Breastfeeding Information and Support Kits is just ridiculous. Seriously, why would they do anything that would harm their bottom line? Isn't that against their corporate mandate to make a profit? <br /><br />Having a formula company offering breastfeeding education is like having a butcher giving tips on a vegan lifestyle. Or, (well you come up with your own.) <br /><br />Are people falling for this? Can they not see the problem here? I hope, for all our sake, new moms are smarter than the well-funded marketing divisions of these major companies.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-20444886067219860012009-08-04T08:04:00.004-06:002009-08-04T09:22:11.455-06:00August Is Breastfeeding Awareness Month - We Hope You Don't NoticeAugust is Breastfeeding Awareness Month. Around the world lactivists, health care practioners and those who care will be raising awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding, the nutritional insufficiency of formula and even the World Health Organization (WHO) Code on the marketing of formula and how big-pharma and food producers violate their own agreements to abide by the code. At Milkface we're not going to go that route - at least, not beyond the messages that exist everyday in our stores and on our website. Those who know milkface know all about these important messages. To them, breastfeeding is normal and you don't go waving your flag and shouting from the rooftops about normal things, now do you?<br /><br />It's true that breastfeeding rates should be higher. It's true that the major advertising budgets of those who sell the alternatives to breastfeeding are having a negative impact on the health of millions of children worldwide and it's true that many doctors and primary care givers are believers and espousers of the "formula is adequate" lie. At milkface we want to correct these injustices but as long as we have a commercial interest in the normal practice of breastfeeding the cynics will see the bias in our words. We will, however, as mothers who have breastfed our children to up to three years of age, share our experiences with those who visit our stores and want to hear about our experiences. As well, we see you, the breastfeeding mother, as the single best voice of breastfeeding and its myriad benefits. One-on-one with other moms and friends on a personal level.<br /><br />One day there may not be the need for a Breastfeeding Awareness Month. We believe that day will come soon. When that day comes we believe that your involvement will have had a bigger role than any campaign or marketing budget could ever contribute. When breastfeeding is accepted, it won't be noticed. When breastfeeding is accepted, there will be no need for an awareness month. Maybe it's time to stop noticing.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-30025396990845991082009-07-28T09:38:00.002-06:002009-07-28T09:46:27.805-06:00Secret Promotions at milkface.comWell, they're not really a secret but they are announced only to our online followers. All our coupons and savings promotions are announced to our e-newsletter subscribers (join at the www.milkface.com homepage) and to our Twitter followers. We send out 2 newsletters a month - a general info message and a new product message. We don't send out too many tweets - just in store events and promotions. Follow us to stay up to date. <br /><br />And fellow bloggers, if you want to pass on information of our promotions, coupon codes and events to your followers, please feel free to pass them on. They thank you for it.<br /><br />Mr. Milkfacemilkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-62182841466690824722009-07-28T08:55:00.002-06:002009-07-28T09:06:02.047-06:00Pimp My Biz - Submission 10Well, it's been a long time since we've talked about the contest and for the most part, that's a good thing.<br /><br />When we won the prize we knew that we would use certain elements for the new Bank Street store. K6 Media would do the graphics on the exterior windows and add some flair to the inside as well. Metro News would run ads promoting the new store opening. Live 88.5FM would run ads announcing the store opening and would run other ads that would maintain our presence in LIVE's listener land. They also did a remote on grand opening day where they broadcast live from the store. These were all positive experiences and organizations that we would recommend for their professionalism and product/services.<br /><br />Of note, I'd like to highlight the team at K6 Media www.k6media.ca. Christian and Tristan were a delight to work with. They took our ideas and developed them in a way that surprised and delighted us. They had ideas we had never considered and expanded our view of what visual marketing can be. Without this prize win we would never have done many of the things you see in our store (wall graphics and banners) and we would never do a vehicle wrap - both mistakes as they are attention getting and convesation starters that boost business. For any new business with a vehicle or storefront you need to find the money to get K6 working for you. The payoff will be apparent in no time.<br /><br />Mr. Milkfacemilkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-78868107638989344232009-06-25T11:06:00.005-06:002009-06-25T11:28:32.192-06:00Internal Debate at MilkfaceEvery now and then, we at milkface are asked if we carry nursing covers. We don't. We apologize and we cater to any other needs that shopper might have. One day the logical follow up question was asked, "Why not?"<br /><br />The issue was raised internally and we had a different opinion from each staffer. Some were passionate supporters, claiming that they allow self conscious mothers the tool necessary to breastfeed in public. Others had passions as strong that stated breastfeeding is natural and normal and shouldn't be hidden and doing so suggests it is something that should be hidden. Great arguments were made on both sides and personal experiences were shared - experiences that were enlightening and made the issue less black and white for all of us.<br /><br />In the end we decided that we would continue to not carry products manufactured with the explicit intent of shielding the act of nursing from others. We would be more proactive in educating milkface visitors that the discretion and privacy some of them seek can be achieved using the tools they already have - breastfeeding clothing and some carrier styles.<br /><br />We believe that a milkface shopping experience is made an incredible one by virtue of the informational resources that our staffers are and the counsel that they can provide. Each a parent. All babywearers. All mothers experienced with breastfeeding. Twins. Cesarean sections, VBAC experiences. Post partum issues. We, collectively, have experienced them all and are generous to share our experiences. For milkface shoppers or during staff meeting discussions, our experiences set us apart. Visit a store today and see how we can help you.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-72656647690435797012009-06-04T09:42:00.002-06:002009-06-04T10:01:07.154-06:00Mr. Milkface Reports: Babywearing for DadsI spend a couple days in each of our stores each week. More and more I see dads coming in (most often with moms) and looking into this "babywearing thing". Some are bored and want to leave quikly. Some are thrifty and can't see the value in a carrier (odd that they have no problem pushing a $700 stroller that only carries a diaper bag while mom carries the baby in her arms). But there are those who have a genuine interest in babywearing.<br /><br />It's great to see dads trying on slings, mei tais, and soft structured carriers in our store. With an incredible selection of styles, fabrics, colours, prints and organics, we have something for everyone. Personally, I think it's cool when dad chooses the pink Ergo because that what his new little princess would look good in.<br /><br />Even more encouraging is that we're seeing it more and more on the street. Dads are pround to be seen with their babies. Even more, they're proud to be seen as physically attached and involved with their children via a carrier.<br /><br />Go dads! Have a Happy Father's Day later this month.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-19443095782933512342009-05-26T08:22:00.002-06:002009-05-26T08:29:40.769-06:00We've been away too long.It has been a really long time since our last post. We werepreparing for the opening of the new store and since then a lot has happened. We have been active in other arenas keeping you up to date and hope that you've been following us on Twitter (milkfacedotcom), YouTube (milkfacedotcom) and our regular, twice-a-month e-newsletters.<br /><br />We'll be making a greater effort to be more regular with our blog, hoping for a posting at least once a week. We'll be doing some new segments and reviving past favourites like our "He Said, She Said" segment where Milkface owners, and spouses, Andy and Britt Pegan give their respective views on various topics. We're always looking for your input as well. We are here to answer your questions and provide content that is of interest to you and other moms like you.<br /><br />That's all for now. See you soon.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-73385424200664139602009-01-28T08:40:00.003-06:002009-01-28T08:44:53.542-06:00Opportunity for Local Photographer or ArtistWe are looking to showcase a local Ottawa <strong>family / baby / pregnancy </strong>photographer or artist in our new Milkface Nursingwear store at 1167 Bank street, scheduled for a grand opening in mid March 2009. We are offering wall space throughout our store for 5-8 quality, framed pieces that showcase the bond between mother and child. In addition we allow, of course, you to post business cards or marketing brochures to attract new business. <br /><br />We have run this programme in our Westboro location for two years and have had incredible feedback from our customers and our two showcased photographers claim that it is a great passive source of new business - one claiming 50% of her business is generated from interested Milface customers. <br /><br />We invite creativity and offer no restrictive guidelines for your pieces with the exception that the subject of all pieces be family friendly. <br /><br />Please send JPG samples of your work for consideration by February 15, 2009. We will shortlist 4 artists by staff vote and will ask our newsletter readers to select the winner based on popular vote. The voting will begin with a mailout to email subscribers on February 18, 2009 with votes being tallied February 21, 2009. Anyone can join our email newsletter by simply joining from the lower right corner of the www.milkface.com hompage. Make sure your supporters have joined before The February 18 sendout.<br /><br />The winner will provide display materials ready for wall display and business card / brochure display holders by March 10, 2009 and maintain the supply of business cards and/or brochures.<br /><br />Thanks and good luck.<br /><br />Send submissions to andy@milkface.com<br />Questions? Call Andy on cell at 762-7444milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-22757939221238761922009-01-09T10:11:00.002-06:002009-01-09T10:13:49.937-06:00Who Could Use A Helping Hand Right Now?We have too much stock. After an incredible Boxing Week Sale we continue to have a number of items that we just don't have the space to display to try to sell. It is time to give it away.<br /> <br />We are looking for organizations or groups that would benefit from the receipt of brand new, first quality nursing fashions and an assortment of nursing bras.<br /> <br />The recipient organization(s) should be involved in the promotion of breastfeeding, have a financial need for the items, and be able to disseminate the donated goods to those in need at no charge to the recipient mothers.<br /><br />We have about 75 articles in various sizes (but mostly larges and smalls) and would like to send it out to no more than 3 groups/organizations. These items have a retail value of over $6000.<br /> <br />If you represent or know of such an organization, please let us know how they would benefit from this donation. We will select recipients on January 16, 2009 and hope to get the items out right away.<br /> <br />How can we help you help others?milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-19021046454473360142008-12-18T14:02:00.000-06:002008-12-18T14:03:30.730-06:00Pimp My Biz Diary - Submission #9It's been about 45 days since we were announced winners of the "Pimp My Biz" contest. We have yet to speak to anyone about concrete plans on how to apply our winnings. A general meeting occurred but no specifics. Waiting....<br /><br />Metro News was our first contact. Ian came to the milkspace - the training, drop-in and breastfeeding lounge above the milkface store, for a meeting and discussion on what Metro was going to do for us. I came in with a few prejudices about print media advertising having come from the real estate profession and did not expect much from the meeting or this element of the prize package. Ian blew me away and changed my views and made me anxious to put our plans in place. Again, this part of the prize was on hold until we had secured a new location for milkface's second Ottawa store but I was ready to go.<br /><br />Ian mentioned that he knew of us already. He uses the street parking near our store often and passes by on occasion. He has even been in the store - not as a customer but as someone interested in what was going on in the cute little store with the pink door. He had been playing with marketing ideas for our store too. He never shared then or introduced himself as a marketing rep but, being the creative guy that he is, he was playing "what if I worked with them" and came up with some ideas. His ideas, now exposed to the light of day and our receptive ears, are exciting and impactful. Expectations are high on my end and practicing patience is difficult when I feel this way.<br /><br />In he end we plan to lay low for the remainder of the year and revisit in January. We are given homework to determine, and document our typical customer and her attributes. Like many things at milkface this already exists but has never been put to paper. Britt and I take 5 minutes and put it down, add some material on business philosophy, business mandate and past marketing examples in an email package and send it off. He's impressed. We show that we know what we want. Now his brain is put to work to develop the campaign to make it happen.<br /><br />More to come....milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-6830948053660901242008-12-16T20:20:00.000-06:002008-12-16T20:21:14.604-06:00PimpMyBiz Contest - Submission #8The intent of our first meeting was to be more ceremonial than practical. A meet and greet with the contest sponsors was, in theory, a great idea but never came to fruition as the schedules of too many people never seemed to align. In lieu of this meeting, Mark from Newcap Radio - the parent company of LIVE 88.5 - called us in to discuss what we had won, how they would facilitate our receipt and use of the winnings and gave a brief overview of radio marketing. The meeting was fascinating - well to be fair it would have probably been boring to the majority of the world but as a guy who records, so as not to miss a TV show about advertising (ad persuasion), and who has a direct impact and benefit in how the prize is used I was rapt.<br /><br />Mark knew his stuff and came across as highly confident and competent - a combination that is essential in the sales game. The "short" meeting lasted 90 minutes. I could only imagine how long we would have been their if we had met with the other marketing execs from the other prize sponsors. In the end Britt and I came away with a better understanding of what we had won and how we would be allowed to apply it to our future goals.<br /><br />Our intention at this point was to hold the radio and print advertising until our expected opening of a second Milkface store in Ottawa (stay tuned on that one) sometime in Q2 2009. We were ready to put into immediate use the vehicle wrap and web media portions of the prize. Mark was on board with these intentions and concurred that our plan was the best use of the prize. Unfortunately nothing happens fast when so many people are involved.<br /><br />More to come...milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-77946085993765199322008-12-15T13:00:00.003-06:002008-12-15T14:43:39.685-06:00Business Is Good but what if...Andy here. Sharing the Milkface board with but off the Pimp my Biz topic today.<br /><br />I recently came across a blog entry from well known and highly respected (by me anyway) author, inventor and imagineer Seth Godin that I wanted to share for various reasons. His blog mainly covers marketing issues but can often be applied to human nature and why we are who we are (or who marketers want us to be).<br /><br />The entry that caught my eye was an article on the human characteristic to share the stories of negative experiences, misdeeds and failures while we often keep those things we cherish - like your favourite mom store, Milkface Nursingwear and www.milkface.com, a secret from others. He goes into the reasons for this and also offers some critically acclaimed enterprises that failed financially because they did not have the tools to get the word out - relying heavily on word of mouth marketing from satisfied customers. <br /><br />We have enjoyed continued success at Milkface Nursingwear but need to be cognizant that our unmatched selection of nursing bras, carriers and nursing fashions, coupled with our compassionate, non-judgemental and down-right fantastic customer service may not always be enough to survive, especially in these financially trying times. For that reason I ask you as a regular milkface blog reader and milkface fan to let just one new mom know about us. We'd really appreciate it and so will she.<br /><br />Seth's blog entry:<br />http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2008/11/dont-know-what.htmlmilkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-1236688724531461902008-11-29T11:01:00.001-06:002008-11-29T11:01:41.126-06:00PimpMyBiz Contest - Submission #7We Won!<br /><br />It is kind of surreal the feelings I am experiencing. I start to doubt what my ears hear hours earlier. Did it really happen or is it just what I wanted to hear? If Britt hadn't heard it too I would have serious doubts.<br /><br />I sent an email to both Katfish and Kornicky letting them know that we heard the announcement and thanking them. Later in the day we get an email from a rep at the station congratulating us and advising us that a panel meeting would be held in the near future with all the prize suppliers to establish connections and run down what, exactly, we have won and how and when it can be used.<br /><br />The night before the meeting was to take place we get 15cm of snow. Because of this snow the meeting is canceled. This makes no sense to me. This is Ottawa and 15 cm of snow is not a lot especially after coming off a winter with over 500cm and many days with 20+cm of accumulation. We made a lot of arrangements to ensure both Britt and I could attend this meeting but all for naught. Oh well.<br /><br />We are presently waiting this meeting to happen. When it does I'll have more to tell you about. More to come.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-248024031343588592008-11-28T19:39:00.001-06:002008-11-28T19:39:47.773-06:00Toronto mamas - this is for you!<strong>Breastfeeding Rally at Queen’s Park, Toronto</strong><br />Wednesday, December 3rd<br /><br />Dr. Jack Newman, the Toronto doctor known around the world as a leader in breastfeeding education and support, needs your help. The Newman Breastfeeding Clinic and Institute sees more than 2500 mothers and babies each year, but is on the verge of closing its doors unless it receives more funding. The NBCI is requesting donations, but until the government recognizes the importance of institutional breastfeeding support, the clinic will always be in danger. <br /><br />Supporters of the NBCI are asked to come to Queen’s Park on Wednesday, December 3rd at 10 am for a quiet nurse-in. Demonstrators will be advocating for the provincial government to recognize the importance of breastfeeding and to commit to funding breastfeeding clinics like Dr. Newman’s. The rally is supported by the New Democratic Party, and NDP health critic France Gélinas will be holding a press conference at 10 am. At 10.30 am, question period will take place in parliament, and Gélinas will use the opportunity to call for a provincial breastfeeding strategy and encourage the government to support hospitals going baby friendly. <br /><br />The objective is to hold a nurse-in in the viewing gallery of Queen’s Park during question period. IMPORTANT: formal protests are not allowed within the building, so it is asked that no one bring signs, placards or banners. The hope is to fill the viewing gallery which will require a huge turn out, so please spread the word. This is an opportunity to change the status of breastfeeding policy in Ontario for years to come.<br /><br />If you wish to attend please RSVP to Helen or Dani by December 1st. Spaces in the viewing gallery are limited and the NDP are asking anyone wishing to participate to add their names to the list of guests as they will have to go to the security desk to give their names in order to get in.<br /><br />What: Breastfeeding Rally and Nurse-in<br />Where: Queen’s Park, Toronto<br />When: 10 am, Wed. December 3rd<br /><br />RSVP to: <br /><br />dani@naturalmothering.ca <br />or<br />helen@naturalmothering.camilkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-20129801735371606122008-11-17T18:39:00.000-06:002008-11-17T18:40:14.902-06:00Sling article!Great <a href="http://women.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/women/body_and_soul/article5155076.ece">new article</a> on baby slings out of the UK. Enjoy while we're off with Mickey and the gang!milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31515934.post-80849736368890711912008-11-17T08:46:00.002-06:002008-11-17T08:49:37.731-06:00The blog rests for a weekThe family is off to Florida for a week at Disney in less than 24 hours. The blog will be dormant for this time. Thanks for checking in and be sure to come back later in the month.<br /><br />The milkface store and milkface.com will be operating as usual with our great staff manning the helm.milkfacemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02018913535704966240noreply@blogger.com0