Welcome!

I'm Tami Parks, fourth-generation entrepreneur and small business person. I love small business and consider it the heartbeat of America's marketplace. My family has been involved in real estate, service, and retail; we're just regular people who have a passion for serving others and being our own bosses.

My husband and I have made a committment to run our business, Great Lakes Wedding Gown Specialists, LLC, as a debt-free business. This blog is our accountability partner!

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Book Review :: The Six Common Small Business Failures


...and how to avoid them! is written by Frederick Jones.


Fred writes in a no-nonsense, pull-no-punches style. There is alot to digest in this book, and it is not a quick read. However, to the one diligent enough to work through the book, a reward of added wisdom awaits.


Fred shares personal examples of both success and failure. He works as a consultant for small businesses, and so has a wealth of experience to draw on; the book is full of great advice.


You can find more information on the book and Frederick Jones at http://www.donotfail.info/


Monday, July 13, 2009

Book Review :: How To Become A Great Boss

This book, by Jeffrey J. Fox, is sub-titled "The Rules for Getting and Keeping the Best Employees".

The short chapters make it an easy read. Some of the chapters are simple, common-sense ideas, like "You Get What You Inspect, Not What You Expect". Other chapters, such as "Listen to Phonies, Fools, and Frauds", draw you in to read what Mr. Fox really means.

It is a fun, easy book to read, just a chapter or two at a time. You will probably find a few ideas to put to work right away.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Weekend Wisdom

A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches,
and loving favor than silver or gold.
Proverbs 17:1 KJV

Friday, July 10, 2009

Share :: How to Properly Store Fabrics

Through Blogger LinkUp, I connected with Denise, who writes a blog at www.sewingbusiness.com. She asked me to share some of my expertise on storing fabrics, based on my years in the drycleaning business.

Please visit her blog and leave me some love!

Monday, July 6, 2009

Jonny Says :: How to Dress


I have a VERY business-minded 10-year-old son named Jonathan. We call him Jonny.


This morning, we were discussing business and how to dress when you work in a retail store. Here are Jonny's thoughts:


1. Book Store :: Dress casual, but neat. This will encourage your customers to relax and read a book. In order to read a book, you first have to buy a book.


2. Bridal Store :: Men should wear tuxes because it will encourage other people to rent them. The customers will know that the store carries tuxes and that they look good on regular people. Ladies should wear dark, simple dresses that are a little "festive". Try to wear the jewelry that you sell at the store.


3. Candy Store :: Wear casual clothes. Candy can get messy sometimes, so don't wear your best clothes.


Jonny's summary :: Advertise your store with what you wear. Always be neat, even if you are casual. If you look messy, people might not want to shop by you.


Stay tuned..."Jonny Says" may become a regular feature on this blog.

Saturday, July 4, 2009

Weekend Wisdom

As you celebrate America's Independence Day :: shop independent!
Celebrate the local business people in your community.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Share :: Everything Green Weddings

A week or so ago, I shared Blogger LinkUp with you. Since signing up for the service about 10 days ago, I have already connected with other bloggers and business people interested in sharing content and ideas.


Today, the Everything Green Weddings blog published a post that I wrote entitled "Enjoying Vintage Wedding Gowns". I would honored if you would visit the blog and leave some love in the comments!