Created by former bride, Haley Dotson
www.TheBrideLink.com

After planning my wedding in 2010, I realized a wedding could possibly be the most complicated, time-consuming, and stressful event a woman will ever plan. From the wedding venue to hair and make-up, there are over twenty different vendor professionals a bride may hire to make her dream wedding come true. Brides usually work full time in school or in the office, causing it to be a challenge to find time to search for available and affordable vendors. From my experience as a bride, I created The Bride Link to save brides valuable time and relieve the stress of finding local, affordable wedding vendors. Here’s how…

The Bride Profile
One of the most frustrating and inefficient parts of planning my wedding was having to repeat my wedding details again and again to vendors to see if they were in my price range and available on my wedding date. Through The Bride Link, brides create a profile which includes all their wedding details. When they see a vendor that interests them, they are able to send a link request to that vendor. This is like a “friend” request on Facebook. This allows the vendor to see all the bride’s wedding details, including her budget and wedding date. From this point, the vendor and bride can communicate back and forth over The Bride Link’s messaging system in order to exchange quotes, availability, and other ideas for the wedding.

Shopping for Vendors
The Bride Link is designed to give brides all their vendor options in one place. It feels like an online bridal show, except the brides have access to free consolidated vendor information anytime they want and solely at their convenience. Instead of a booth, vendors have a profile providing brides with the most important information about their services including prices and pictures. The Bride Link even uses the bride’s profile information to match her with vendors in her price range. Through one click, the bride can send her wedding information to any vendor to see if they are available on her wedding date.

Problem Solved!
The Bride Link skips the time consuming work of searching on Google, emailing vendors, and calling to check for availability. After viewing a vendor’s prices and pictures, the bride can send her wedding information to any vendor for review. Brides do not need to worry about being spammed by wedding vendors ever again. On The Bride Link, the power is completely in the hands of the bride to initiate the relationship with the vendor. The Bride Link does not permit a vendor to see a bride’s profile until a link request is sent. During this extremely important time in a bride’s life, she will find The Bride Link is fun, innovative, and will revolutionize the way she connects with vendors.

Brides Who Love The Bride Link

“I never realized how many choices there were for flowers, cakes, decorations, and other vendors until I got engaged. The Bride Link makes it easy to connect with vendors who can work with my budget and my needs. The vendors on The Bride Link showed me that they wanted my business and would work with me to give me what I wanted to the best of their abilities.” – Jamie DeChaine and Kelsey Feldmann

“The Bride Link was a great starting point for me in my search for wedding venues and vendors that are located in my area. You can link with the vendors that you like and correspond in one place. It makes it very easy and stress free to plan a wedding. The inspiration boards have by far been my favorite part of the site. The boards give me ideas and inspiration for my own wedding.” – Paul Watson and Debbie Perry

“Haley and The Bride Link have been a valuable resource during my wedding planning process, especially The Bride Link vendor page. It introduced me to providers I didn’t know about! I think all Knoxville brides should explore the site. It’s so nice to have so much information about local vendors in one place, and Haley’s helpful and professional personality help to ensure that you find whatever you’re looking for!” – Jason Phillips and Lindsay Taylor

“The Bride Link has been absolutely amazing! They have all the vendors I was interested in, with contact information, all in one place! The emails I receive from The Bride Link have wonderful ideas and tips for how to make your wedding something focused on what you want and who you are as a person. It has shown me that if a classic, traditional wedding is not exactly for me, that’s ok! A wedding is supposed to be what you and your fiancé want. And at The Bride Link, I have been able to find exactly what I want for my wedding.” – James Krause and Emily Kiraly

Vendor Testimonials

“The Bride Link provides a unique service, offering the best of all worlds. It’s a convenient ‘one-stop shop’ where brides can learn more about vendors with the click of a mouse. In addition, the site delivers vendors the opportunity to reach a target-specific audience. For brides and vendors alike, The Bride Link provides excellent results with minimal effort. Strength definitely exists in numbers. By joining The Bride Link, I have seen a marked increase in customer inquiries.” – Nathan Manning, owner of Timeless Transportations

“Haley Dotson with The Bride Link has created a wonderful online meeting place for brides and vendors. With a functional, user-friendly website, the planning process is made easier for brides, and vendors have increased interest in their business. Haley has done a great job keeping up with social media trends, making The Bride Link easily accessible to many brides and therefore increasing traffic in our store!” – Cheryl Hyland, owner of White Table.

The Bride Link
www.TheBrideLink.com

Not content to rest on last year’s success, Granite Transformations, having just opened a new and expanded Design and Discovery Showroom in Knoxville, recently announced the opening of their brand new Design and Discovery Showroom in Chattanooga. And the results speak for themselves as customer response has exceeded even the most optimistic expectations.

Once again, we are pleased to interview local area entrepreneurs and husband and wife team, Buddy and Patti Baker.

Everything Knoxville: 2011 was a year of unprecedented success and growth for Granite Transformations. Were you ever tempted to take some time off and relax for a while?

Buddy Baker: We’ll relax later. The current economic environment is ripe with opportunities for aggressive companies with a great business model and a well thought-out marketing strategy.

EK: While you have meticulously implemented your well thought-out marketing strategy, how important was the quality of Granite Transformations’ products to your success?

Buddy: Even before launching Granite Transformations in Knoxville we were committed to identifying a product that was far superior to anything our competition might offer. We recognized that no marketing message, no matter how carefully crafted, could overcome inferior quality.

EK: So with a superior product and a carefully crafted marketing message, you launched your newly expanded Design and Discovery Showroom. Tell us, what were the results?

Patti Baker: Our new design center allows our customers both to plan and visualize their dream kitchen or bath in advance. Showing our expanded product offering has also helped our customers to discover how easy and cost effective their transformation can be.

EK: And now, on the heels of this success, you will be launching an all new Design and Discover Showroom in Chattanooga. What has the response been?


Patti: We have had a great response to our advertising in Chattanooga and have already established a base of satisfied Granite Transformations customers. We look forward to opening our new design center there so that our Chattanooga area customers have the same opportunity to come in and create their dream transformation.

EK: You had to know that your strategy of expanding during these troubled economic times almost seems counter-intuitive, and yet your strategy has been far more successful than even you had imagined. How do you account for that?

Buddy: In times like these, hunkering down and waiting for things to get better is a dangerous game of chance. We offer the best products, warranty, and service commitment, so why not make it known for those people who are interested in adding value to their homes.


EK: Tell us a little more about your new Chattanooga endeavor.

Patti: We are in the process finishing our design center there and anticipate having our grand opening celebration in the first quarter of this year. We expect the same level of success there as we have experienced here in Knoxville.

EK: You’ve successfully navigated a deep recession and housing industry collapse. What words of encouragement can you offer to other small business owners who might have hunkered down during these last several years?

Buddy: Start marketing heavily, but do it strategically and smart. Know your customers’ demographics and figure out how to reach them, and when it begins to work, expand your marketing proportionately.

EK: Any last thoughts you would like to share?

Buddy: Thanks to the great people of Knoxville, and watch out for information about our annual anniversary celebration in the coming months. It’s going to be a great time to discover your dream kitchen or bathroom that awaits you in your home.

Granite Transformations
10539 Lexington Drive
Knoxville, TN 37932
865.622.2381
www.granitetransformations.com

In response to the years of allergies, cancer, skin, and other health related issues experienced by their family’s pets, lifelong Johnson City natives and husband and wife, Don and Valerie Whaley, discovered that improper nutrition was largely the cause of their pets’ problems. Further, they found that proper nutrition, which avoided fillers, processing and chemical preservatives, greatly improved their pets’ health and contributed to their longevity.


This month Everything Knoxville interviews Natural Pet Supply, where you will discover how proper nutrition and education can enhance the health and longevity of your family’s dog or cat.

Everything Knoxville: Natural Pet Supply is a locally owned small business committed to promoting better health for the other members of our families – our dogs and cats. Describe Natural Pet Supply’s philosophy.

Natural Pet Supply: Basically, that better food results in better health. By better we mean the best sourced ingredients for health and sustainability, cleanliness, and consistency. When you and your pet(s) eat a wholesome, natural diet, you’ll naturally get better health results. Don’t discount the importance of a balanced lifestyle – regular exercise, good sleep, healthy emotional environments and relationships, moderation – those certainly add to the holistic well being of us and our pets and it all goes together with food to make us work properly and be healthier.

EK: Natural Pet Supply’s owners and founders, and husband and wife team, Don and Valerie Whaley, actually launched their small business after researching and discovering how improved nutrition overcame many of the health problems their family pets were experiencing. Just what did they discover?

NPS: That many popular pet foods are compromised primarily of lower quality “run off” ingredients from the human food industry. By the time those ingredients get into the bags of our pet’s food, the nutritional value is less than it could or should be. We learned that we need to be savvy consumers both for ourselves and our pet’s well being. You can be savvy by being an avid label reader, knowing the company’s philosophy, asking where they source ingredients and manufacture the product(s), and whether they hold any certifications for excellence. The internet is a great source of information, but remember to get verifiable information – make it a point to avoid blogs and personal opinions unless they are based on reliable facts that can be verified.

EK: When and where did Natural Pet Supply launch its first store?

NPS: We opened in Johnson City, Tennessee in 2005.

EK: What was the response from pet owners?

NPS: Slow but steady, and overall grateful to have the option of a healthy choice for their pet products.

EK: Describe how fillers, processing, and chemical preservatives can negatively impact the health and longevity of our pets.

NPS: A wise veterinarian once said that the “further away from natural one gets, the more problems one has.” That is such a profound thought and when applied to foods – whether pet or human – it’s so true. We live in such a fast paced technological world that we’re always looking for convenience and speed. As a result, most of our foods are already prepared. Virtually nothing is fresh and raw or freshly prepared from fresh ingredients, thus the need for fillers and preservatives. As a result of this madness, we’re not receiving the benefits of fresh food, we’re ingesting chemicals that our bodies don’t know what to do with, and we’re creating health problems as a direct result of the overload of chemicals. We can reduce the negative effects by taking a bit of extra time in examining the ingredients in our foods and making smart choices and purchases for the ingredients we’re putting into our pets and our bodies. Adding fresh foods, excellent quality supplements, fresh air, movement, and water to our life are ways we can improve the diet pitfalls that so many pets and people get into.

EK: What type of quality products will pet owners discover at Natural Pet Supply that will not commonly be found at traditional pet food retailers?


NPS: Holistic and super-premium food formulas, excellent quality supplements, unique treats, USA made and sourced items, and functional accessories designed to make you and your pet’s life more comfortable and fun.

EK: Tell our readers about the added resources that Natural Pet Supply offers pet owners which are designed to help educate and inform them.

NPS: Excellent customer service; all the products we represent are backed by the producers, and we love to get to know our customers and their pets. We consider it a privilege to serve the wonderful customers that NPS attracts and we do it with enthusiasm. Our team is equipped to provide excellent information to help make your pet healthier.


EK: Can we assume that your decision to open a new location in Bearden came as a result of the overwhelmingly positive response you received at your Johnson City location?

NPS: The decision to expand to Knoxville was a result of our brother’s interest in joining the company. He was the one who had the idea, selected the location, and built the business here in Knoxville. We are excited to be in this great town and it’s so much fun for us to break away from the Johnson City location and come here to work and serve. The customers are terrific and we couldn’t be more pleased with the location.

EK: Natural Pet Supply’s Bearden location is managed by Valerie’s brother, Eric. How did Eric first become involved in the family business?

NPS: Eric has a strong business background and has been involved with NPS since its conception in 2005. He was our main consultant for development of the business plan and has been a prime resource to us all through the years of NPS Johnson City. We were thrilled at his desire to join the business and expand to Knoxville.

EK: Anything else you would like to tell our readers about specials or events taking place at your Bearden location?

NPS: Once summer returns, we’d like to have group dog walks along the greenway that borders the store. We love doing community charity events and hope to do many of those in Knoxville in the future. In Johnson City, we have an annual Howl-o-Ween party that we want to bring to Knoxville beginning next year. We have an awesome email list where we regularly send out a newsletter containing great information, upcoming events, and a valuable coupon for you and your pet. If you’d like to be added, please visit our website at www.naturalpetsupplyonline.com or email us at naturalpetsupply@att.net.

Natural Pet Supply
120 N. Forest Park Boulevard
Knoxville, TN 37919
865.330.7737
www.naturalpetsupplyonline.com

Left to Right: Amy Blankenship, Becky Tarver, Claudette Meyer & Janet Crawford


The nearly 10,000 square foot Paris Apartment is the creation of the very innovative local entrepreneur, Debbie Oden.

Everything Knoxville: Visitors will be truly amazed at what you and your team of “innovators” have accomplished in only four month’s time. What was your inspiration for The Paris Apartment?

Debbie Oden: I have always had a passion for entertaining, decorating, traveling and sharing life with friends and family.  Last year my husband Bob and I had the wonderful privilege of caring for my father, Dick Puckett, in his last five months on the Monterey Peninsula in Northern California.  We spent a great deal of time sharing memories and documenting stories, and I was so moved being reminded of how many lives he had touched and how many people he had inspired throughout his life. Slowing down long enough to spend that time with him gave me a lot of time to reflect on my own life and the unfulfilled chapter in my life of sharing my creative side and hopefully inspiring others.  Friends have often questioned why I had not done so yet and now, here we are.  I have a wonderful excuse to “Aim High and Go over the Top” every day!   

It was my dream to create a destination venue where our guests could escape to the back lanes of Paris and wind through the boutiques in search of their hidden treasures, a fabulous accessory, or unique stylish jacket.  Our guests could then stop and relax in a special European Café, enjoying lunch, a pastry, a pot of tea, or a latté with friends.  

EK: The Paris Apartment is the very type of shopping and dining venue one might expect to discover in New York City or Chicago. Why did you think this business model would succeed in Sweetwater, Tennessee?

Debbie: I have enjoyed traveling extensively and I am always in search of the hidden treasures along my journeys. It was my desire to create a business model where our guests would find treasures of all prices while enjoying refreshing dining and be able to escape and lose themselves for a few hours meandering. So often boutiques have fabulous treasures; however, they are quite often too expensive for many. We felt we would be successful if we could merchandise in multiple tiers with this current economy. “A little something for everyone.”

We chose Sweetwater to begin our business because of the other lovely shops that have worked so hard to build it as a destination. We hope we bring an additional draw to complement our wonderful neighbors in historic downtown Sweetwater.

EK: How would you describe for our readers the eclectic selection of gift and home décor items they will find at The Paris Apartment?

Debbie: Eclectic is a great word to describe The Paris Apartment. We enjoy the quest to seek out and find unique gifts, casual elegant dining and home décor that will delight the wide interests of our customers. We love mixing antiques, handcrafted items, art and the creative use of blending all of the above to create magical vignettes throughout the shop. Our passion for arranging and blending eclectic treasures inspires us to recreate our boutiques continually. Our customers share with us that they feel they can visit each week and find the shop seems “new” each visit. Our team of designers enjoys creating an ever changing experience for our guests.

EK: You recently expanded your merchandise offering by featuring women’s apparel and accessories. What has been your customers’ response to these newly added items?

Debbie: Unbelievable! We are humbled when our customers express their excitement over our new boutique and share their appreciation for our bringing unique, artful, quality apparel and accessories to The Paris Apartment. We seek out new designers along with quality established apparel and accessory lines that are not carried in other shops in the Knoxville area. We then blend in vintage apparel and accessories to add another dimension to our boutique. Additionally, we have fabulous handmade wearable art and accessories as well as other well known creative lines such as Mary Francis handbags.

EK: Describe for our readers the Le Jardin Tea Room and Café within The Paris Apartment.

Debbie: We have blended our passions for cooking, entertaining, traveling and tablescaping into a fabulous dining experience for our guests. We have each table preset with elegant china patterns as though one is coming to our home for lunch or dinner. We then fill the plates with delicious, fresh European-inspired meals. Each table in our main dining room is decorated with a different European city or region theme. We have customers call to make reservations “for two in Paris on Friday” or “four for lunch in Tuscany on Tuesday.” We recently had a gentleman call to ask for “a table with an ocean view” and we enjoyed seeing his face as he walked in to find we had placed an easel with a lovely framed painting of Carmel Beach next to his table. We have entirely too much fun!

We serve afternoon teas and high teas by reservation. Our Victorian Christmas Teas will be served every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in December at 11:30 or 2:30 by reservation only. We will also serve our Victorian Christmas Teas each day between Christmas and New Year’s Day at 11:30 or 2:30. Our guests will delight in the traditions of “days gone by” in Victorian England with a full Traditional Christmas Tea, Christmas Crackers and a Yule Log. Book early as these teas are filling quickly.

EK: Has the customer response to the Cupcakery surprised you?


Debbie: Absolutely! We are a bit old fashioned and we hand decorate and fill our cupcakes each day. Many of our recipes are old family favorites and others are innovative new creations. Our customers express their delight in our old fashioned baking as well as our creative blending of flavors and toppings. We are excited to announce that we are adding breads, pies, cinnamon rolls and other baked goods to our Bakery & Cupcakery by order. We encourage our customers to place their holiday orders early!

EK: You recently held an artist exposition at The Paris Apartment. Do you plan additional expositions in the future?


Debbie: Yes! The art gallery located in our main dining room is a very special part of The Paris Apartment to me and was inspired by my father, who was the Arts & Crafts Director for Ft. Ord and was very instrumental in the Army Arts & Crafts Program worldwide. We grew up surrounded by art. One of his campaigns used to encourage recreational services for our soldiers was a worldwide Army program called “You Gotta Have Art!” He believed and taught that anyone could be an artist and everyone needed art in their lives. His passion for the arts passed on to me and inspired me to develop our gallery and the sharing of art here at The Paris Apartment.

EK: Will art be a staple at The Paris Apartment and will you be featuring artists?

Debbie: Absolutely. We enjoy hosting a wide range of events at The Paris Apartment, from cooking classes to fashion shows, and we especially enjoy sharing art with our customers. Our next Gallery Opening is Thursday, November 3rd from 4 to 8 pm. We are opening a tribute show to my father and a “Tribute to Army Arts & Crafts.” This show will be on display through January 26th and will feature everything from painting, sculpture, glass blowing and pottery. We are currently booking exhibits for 2012 and artists interested in showing in our gallery may contact us for more information.

EK: What should our readers expect to discover at The Paris Apartment for the holidays?

Debbie: Magic! We are creating a Winter Wonderland of trees and treasures throughout the boutiques. We are proud to feature Katherine’s Collections Santa Creations as the primary themes of each of our trees. Our Cupcakery has been transformed to Santa’s Candyland and Bakery with “Santa Lollipop.” We have created a magical forest of trees for our guests to stroll through with their tour brochure, sharing the creativity and inspiration behind each tree and vignette. Of course the trees, décor and vignettes may be purchased and recreated in your home as well. Be certain to peek in the trees to find the hidden surprises throughout the boutiques! Please join us for our Holiday Open House November 3rd through 6th. We will have special entertainment, food and sales throughout the weekend.

The Paris Apartment
111 North Main Street
Sweetwater, TN 37874
423.351.0009
www.TheParisApartmentBoutique.com

In today’s culture that can be a challenge. Every day of the week brings new opportunities and new obstacles. Each day demands more from parents and children: sports, homework, community events, family, music and the list just keeps growing. Parents are stressed, wrestle with guilt and search for ways to set better boundaries for their lives. Instead of feeling loved, families feel tired and overwhelmed.

Dr. Wade Bibb sees this dilemma daily. “Central Baptist Bearden wants to be part of the solution, not the problem,” he says. “We know that parents from all walks of life are doing the best they can to hold it together, pay the bills, love their children and be responsible citizens. But some days it’s just too much. The single-parent families are especially hard-hit. We want to help.”

Connecting with children and families
“I remember the day when a young boy let me know I was his pastor,” says Dr. Bibb, reflecting on his family’s journey. “I was fresh out of seminary serving in a small community. It was a ‘snow day’ and school was canceled. An eight-year-old boy called and asked if I wanted to come over and play video games. Well, of course I did. I drove down the long driveway to their home, knocked on the door and his mom invited me in. We talked a while in the kitchen and finally she said, ‘It’s nice to see you, but why are you here today?’ That’s when I realized that he had not asked permission; he just called his pastor to play video games. She didn’t know he had called me. I realized that day, not only did I become his pastor, I also became the pastor of that church family.”

Growing faith from childhood
We are prepared at Central Baptist Bearden to let your child grow and explore life and faith safely. We love children and are committed to helping parents of all families as they love and raise their children. Families will find a safe, secure and attractive environment for their children to grow in community. And we believe community is one of the key elements missing in many families that will make a significant difference.

Strong churches always build strong spiritual foundations. “But with children, we must be careful. We do not want to force or hurry their growth or make their journey a reflection of our own fears and concerns,” says Dr. Bibb. “We give serious attention and resources to ministry with children and families beginning at birth. Nurturing children also encourages and nurtures the faith of all the family members.”

Central Baptist Bearden has two full-time staff ministers for preschool and children. Pat Capps is Minister with Children and Families, having served at Central Baptist Bearden for 10 years. Kara Wheeler is the new Minister with Preschool and Families, joining the team in October.

Teaching children by responding to their questions
Children say the darndest things, and we make sure their questions are always welcomed at Central. “Who died first, Adam or Eve?” “How was God made?” “Can you be baptized in a pool or a lake?” “How old are the sun and the moon?” “Why can God see us but we can’t see Him?” “How old are God and Jesus?” “Why did God make mosquitoes?” Children are not afraid to ask questions. “We may not know the answers,” says Pat, “but we will point each other to the One who does!”

Equipping families to become the church 
outside the walls
The church’s philosophy about children is clear. “From their first day, we want to know our children’s families, their names, their personalities and help them discover their own adventure with God. Through thoughtful planning, and hundreds of active volunteers, Central offers a safe, welcoming environment for even the youngest family member.”

But it’s about more than just teaching and believing. It’s about doing. We are sending families outside the walls of the church to become the church in our schools, communities and playgrounds. Mission trips are planned that are intentionally designed to include families. What a thrill to see children working alongside their parents and siblings as they serve others. That’s a lesson those children will never forget. Children learn by what they see parents doing. These values are more easily caught than taught. At Central Baptist Bearden, children are given opportunities to be the hands and feet of Christ in our community, our nation and our world. We consider children the church of today and of tomorrow.

Seeing God’s wonder through the eyes of little children
“Preschool ministry is fun!” insists Kara Wheeler. “We have an opportunity to see the wonder and goodness of God’s creation in the eyes of God’s smallest children. Our church is a safe, loving place for preschoolers to grow in God’s goodness while at the same time connecting the Scriptures to the parents on a personal level.  God created us not to live in isolation from one another, but in community where we can share our experiences and together make the journey we call life.”

Partnering with parents to connect families with God
The preschool and children’s ministries at Central Baptist Bearden are partnering with parents to connect families with God and one another. Our MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) program provides mentoring, education, encouragement and social opportunities for young mothers. Missions education, including hands-on service with area missions organizations such as Angelic Ministries, assures that as children mature they are always thinking of others and helping the underserved in our community. Dozens of adult volunteers keep the environment safe and encouraging. The church even utilizes Parent Pager, a computer check-in system that uses photo identification to ensure safety and peace of mind for the families.

“These are challenging times for families,” admits Dr. Bibb. “We’re seeing a growing trend of grandparents bringing their grandchildren to church even if the parents are not yet involved. We’ve responded by adapting our schedule to accommodate the needs of those families. They’re working hard and loving so much. We must help them succeed.”

Opportunities to get involved can be found on the church’s website at www.cbcbearden.org.

Central Baptist Bearden
6300 Deane Hill Drive
Knoxville, TN 37919
865.588.0586
www.cbcbearden.org

In this issue of Everything Knoxville, we are excited to be featuring two area young women entrepreneurs, Valerie Guess, founder and president of Val’s Boutique, and Courtney Holden, founder and president of Benefit Your Life. Val’s Boutique is a trendy West Knoxville women’s boutique featuring the very latest in fashion trends from top designers at affordable prices for women of all ages. Benefit Your Life, which embraces a philosophy of “be as natural as you want to be,” is an all-natural store promoting a healthy, nutritious and energized lifestyle.

Both women also exemplify a growing national trend in our country which finds women entrepreneurs launching businesses at a rate of 2-to-1 over their male counterparts. Valerie and Courtney are also outstanding role models for other young women considering a career as a self-employed entrepreneur.

Everything Knoxville: Many readers are understandably curious about what led you to launch your own companies. What was the inspiration behind each of your small business endeavors?

Valerie Guess: Since a young age I have always said that I will work for myself one day. I wanted to be involved in a business that was exciting and often changing. Well, as we all know, over the years, fashion has changed dramatically. But it’s funny how it also comes full circle. Trends that I hated in the 80’s are some of my favorites these days.

Courtney Holden: When you find something that makes you a better person or changes your life, you cannot help but to share it with everyone who wants to know! Benefit Your Life, and the idea of creating a business, was inspired by discovering (simple) life changing habits for myself and making those healing habits tangible to many others.

EK: Courtney, would you say that personal food allergies that you discovered as a youth were instrumental in the founding of Benefit Your Life in 2008? Turning adversity into opportunity?

Courtney: The building blocks for our bodies are no longer farmed proteins, fruits and vegetables. We are building our bodies with chemical laden foods and a fast food society. At a young age, I was just a product of our society. I received a mental diagnosis and knew it wasn’t just a disorder in my head. Benefit Your Life was founded when I became a certified Natural Health Professional and was able to make sense of the warning signs my body was putting off.

EK: Valerie, Val’s Boutique, which you introduced in 2007, was originally a home-based business. How difficult has it been to transition to a brick-and-mortar store?

Valerie: So much easier! I was starting to have back problems lugging all those clothes in and out of my car. I still do home parties and special events every once and a while because I built a great group of customers and don’t want to let them down. In fact, I recently got off the road from a four-day event in Nashville. They are the women that believed and supported me from the beginning. I will never forget that. I will also support Junior League events around Christmas time; this is another place that helped grow my business.

EK: There are numerous outlets where consumers can purchase healthy, organic and gluten-free products. Why do more and more customers choose Benefit Your Life over your competitors?

Courtney: Because we relate to those that need help! All of the employees at Benefit Your Life have been sick or diagnosed with illness and have made remarkable strides by making simple, natural changes in our diets and household. We don’t suggest something that might work. We show you what will work!

EK: In a very competitive women’s fashion marketplace, how does Val’s Boutique maintain a competitive advantage over other retail apparel stores?

Valerie: You are right! So many women’s fashion boutiques are popping up everywhere! I try really hard to keep my prices below most boutiques. And it was really important for me to hire the right people. I want customers to feel welcome in the store and get excellent customer service.

EK: Although each of your respective companies are only several years old, what changes have you implemented in response to today’s rapidly evolving marketplace?

Courtney: We listen to our customers’ needs. We are not going to load you up with ingredients and suggest you cook every meal of the day if your lifestyle is fast-paced and full of commitments. We adapt to each customer’s needs. Our goal is to find a remarkable product for you that will make you feel better, make your life more simple and give you hope for a brighter future.

Valerie: Val’s Boutique has changed in so many ways. I have learned what customers like and really listen to make that happen. I feel I have become a better buyer and found my niche. When I first started, I carried too many different types of things and could not figure out if I wanted to be a gift shop or clothing shop. I have finally learned how to balance that.

EK: What role, if any, does social media and online play in your businesses?

Valerie: EVERYTHING! Between Everything Knoxville and Facebook, my business has grown so much. I have a website that I’m hoping to concentrate more on and see if that can give women the opportunity outside of Knoxville to purchase from Val’s Boutique.

Courtney: Most people do not think of Knoxville, TN as a society of wellness. However, since our website launched in 2007, we ship daily to states such as Colorado and California. We think of these states having the most healthy resources. This just goes to show you that we are all in the same boat and all know something good when we find it!

EK: What recommendations would you offer to other aspiring young women entrepreneurs who may be considering launching a business of their own?

Courtney: Passion is contagious! Find what you are passionate about. Find what truly makes a difference in your life. Dig in deep to learn the nuts and bolts of your passion and then share the “socks off” of your concept, in your desired business atmosphere.

Valerie: Figure out what makes you happy. I feel Val’s Boutique is a part of me and not a job. I love every minute of it and would not change anything. I don’t mind going by the store before and after hours. I never think of it as a burden. I feel that if you are doing what makes you happy, it will all fall into place. I will say though that starting small and growing over time was perfect for my situation. It really shows that hard work will pay off.

EK: Any final thoughts?

Valerie: I want to thank all my customers, family and friends that have supported me from the beginning. I could not be where I am today if it wasn’t for you. (I sound like I am giving a speech for an Academy Award, but I really mean it.)

Courtney: Go with your gut! Read, research and discover why you show symptoms, inflammation or imbalance in your body. Once our mind understands what our gut already knows, we become a powerhouse. “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you…” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Val’s Boutique
7309 Kingston Pike
Knoxville, TN 37919
865.249.8282
www.ShopValsBoutique.com

Benefit Your Life
620 N. Campbell Station Road
Knoxville, TN 37934
865.288.3193
www.BenefitYourLife.com

Drink, Dine, Savor!

Housed in a two-story brick antebellum home built for Dr. James Harvey Baker and later sold to the Peters family, the Baker Peters mansion is now home to the popular Baker Peters Fine Dining & Lounge restaurant.  Under the new ownership and careful guidance of native Knoxvillian and former UT Vol, Jerome Brown, Baker Peters is experiencing a renaissance of sorts as it builds on its strong reputation for first class service, exceptional dining and quality entertainment.  Built around a very knowledgeable and talented staff led by General Manager Wade Morris, Baker Peters will delight guests with a truly memorable experience that will likely exceed expectations.

Everything Knoxville: As Baker Peters’ new owner, what is your vision for its future?

Jerome Brown: Existing guests will experience a recommitment to our past and a variety of exciting new changes that will enhance their dining and entertainment experience.  GM Wade Morris was with Baker Peters for years before I purchased it. Wade is now helping to guide this experience to exceed the expectations of everyone that has visited Baker Peters and knows the level of excellence we deliver. We are confident that these improvements will also attract new guests as well.

EK: How does the mansion’s historic ambiance contribute to the dining and entertainment experience of your guests?

JB: The Baker Peters mansion is truly a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Guests begin to immediately embrace its historical prominence upon entering. Its architecture, fireplaces, rich woodwork and individual dining rooms provide a unique setting unavailable anywhere in Knoxville. You grasp a sense of over 150 years of history.

EK: I earlier referred to ongoing changes at Baker Peters as a sort of renaissance. Tell our readers about some of the changes they’ll see when visiting.

JB: We began by asking our guests about the changes they would most like to see occur. And listen we did. The first changes involved totally renovating our guest restrooms and the installation of a state-of-the-art air filtration system. We will be updating our patio and installing a retractable glass ceiling and outdoor bar. We will be improving our interior lighting as well. Guests will also observe website and menu redesigns. Our new website will have many new interactive features that our readers said were important to them, such as online reservations.


EK: What menu changes can guests anticipate from Executive Chef Ali Ayesh?

JB: Committed to quality, all entrees will be made from scratch using only the finest ingredients. Expect some new menu items as well as some Baker Peters’ favorites including fresh seafood, cut-to-order prime steaks, daily wild-game feature, our very own sausage prepared in-house, a 10oz. ground filet burger called, what else, the Baker Burger, and for dessert, our homemade Crème Brulee and delectable treats from Gigi’s Cupcakes.


EK: You’ve also introduced some new cocktails. What are they?


JB: Our talented team of bartenders has designed a new lineup of 50 martinis to complement our already extensive list of premium scotches, whiskeys, gins and other liquors. We’ve also introduced a new cigar menu that features many internationally known brands including Rocky Patel, Ashton and Cohiba. Happy hour is daily from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm and features domestic beers for $2.50, discounted liquors, $4 glasses of house wine and $7 lounge menu items. Join us for “Monday Night Martini Madness” and get $2 martinis for the ladies until 7:00 pm and $5 martinis for the ladies until close every Monday. I encourage Everything Knoxville readers to visit us online at www.bakerpeters.com for a list of other daily features.

EK: Tell our readers about your entertainment venue at Baker Peters.

JB: Local instrumental jazz groups will entertain guests Tuesdays through Thursdays. On Fridays and Saturdays, we will feature a variety of genres including funk, soul, jazz, pop and rock. Baker Peters is proud to welcome Soulfinger, Pulse, Jay Storm, Kimber Cleveland, The Doug Harris Band, Lost & Found, Jenna & The Accidentals and a growing list of other Knoxville talent. We invite you to dance the night away, or just to relax to some of the area’s finest entertainment, on Knoxville’s premier second story patio entertainment venue.


EK: Can Baker Peters assist me with a special event?


JB: Absolutely. We’ve got a full-time event coordinator, David Poe, on staff to meet your every need for any occasion. We have mastered the art behind special events, and the historic Baker Peters mansion will be sure to impress all of your guests in a way that no other venue can.

EK: Jerome, would you like to offer a special invitation to our readers?

JB: Thank you for giving us the opportunity to address Everything Knoxville’s readers. We would love to offer anyone that sees this interview a free appetizer with their table’s dinner purchase until October 30th, 2011.

Baker Peters
9000 Kingston Pike
Knoxville, TN 37923
865.690.8110
www.bakerpeters.com

Sean first discovered his passion for technology when he began writing software and building computers at age 11. He went on to work at a large web hosting company after high school before founding Slamdot in 2005. Since then, his website design and hosting company, located in downtown Knoxville, continues to innovate by making affordable websites available for small businesses through the area’s first ever web design retail destination.

Everything Knoxville: Why does a business need a website?

Sean Christman: With over 60 million local searches occurring each day, without a website, people may not even know your business exists. Today, your website really is your business. It’s the 24/7 online version of your company, which answers basic questions and helps people contact you. Even if you have a website, if it wasn’t built properly, you may not be getting found in search engines.

EK: Are all websites created equal?

Sean: Every web design company is different, and each designer would create a different website for the same business, with varying results. You want to choose your web designer based on their reputation, customer service, creative talent, technical expertise, and cost, in that order.

EK: What are some other considerations when choosing a web designer?

Sean: Picking a web design company is basically picking a business partner. You’ll be developing a long-term relationship with your designer to help grow your business online. Website development is very collaborative, and involves both you and your designer spending time together throughout the project. If they’re not friendly, helpful, insightful, and responsive, you’ll be back to square one again in no time. You also need to exercise caution against web designers who outsource your website’s development to sub-contractors, many of whom may be located offshore.

EK: What is the difference between a graphic designer and a web designer?

Sean: Many purported web design companies are actually just graphic designers that dabble in web design. They can create beautiful, stunning websites that fundamentally don’t work, or aren’t easily found in search engines. A great design is important, but it’s not typically necessary to have a completely custom, unique design for most businesses. It’s more important for the website to function.

EK: What is code and what is its significance?

Sean: The code, or markup language, is the most important component of the website, and is very different from the design. The code determines how easily search engines will ultimately find and rank your website. Code is also responsible for maintaining a consistent experience across all browsers, including mobile devices. A well-coded website is also easier to update and maintain.

EK: How important is social media to small business?

Sean: Social media goes hand in hand with your website. The text on your website is typically promotional and focuses on your products or services. Social media shows the human side of your business. It lets people get to know the face behind your company, see who recommends you, and learn about exciting things going on within your organization.

EK: Why select Slamdot instead of a friend or relative to design and host my company’s website?

Sean: Since we have an entire team that continues to expand as our clients’ needs grow, we constantly have staff available to help our customers with whatever they need. We provide 24/7 support, so we’re always available, whenever you need us. Every aspect of your website is handled in-house, which is pretty uncommon. We design, code, optimize, maintain, host and support everything under one roof, so there’s only one company to deal with.

EK: How important is hosting to my company?

Sean: Most companies providing hosting are simply reselling web hosting services from a larger company. We maintain and administer our own servers, which means we’re in complete control of how they’re performing, and we’re not dependent on a third party if anything needs attention. This also allows us to ensure our customers’ data is safe and secure, because only Slamdot customers are using our servers. As part of our monthly web hosting service, we assist our customers with updating their websites, and provide ongoing technical support, which is also available in person at the Slamdot Store.

EK: How important is it to own your website?

Sean: It’s very important to own your website and domain name, and have control over all of the various components that make up your web presence. We make this easy by providing you with access to everything you need, including a content management system so you can make changes to your website. We don’t lock our customers into any long-term contracts or proprietary technology that they can’t leave. Our customers own their websites and are free to move if they’re ever unhappy with our service.

EK: Describe the “Slamdot Experience.”

Sean: We make the entire process of starting and managing a website simple. Our relationship with our customers doesn’t end when the website is completed; it’s really just the beginning. The long-term partnership we have with our customers is the most rewarding. We enjoy helping them grow their businesses through the Internet by showing them how to leverage available technologies through SlamCamps. We focus on getting results, and have a strong passion for customer service. We encourage anyone to ask around about us and check our references. What sets us apart is the Slamdot Experience, and it’s unique to us.

EK: Is it easy to get started?


Sean: We provide a free one-on-one consultation at the Slamdot Store, which typically takes about an hour. We don’t use confusing jargon or try to intimidate our customers by talking over their heads. We take that time to learn about their business and evaluate any competitors, research keywords, and come up with a website strategy to accomplish their objectives. We have several packages to choose from, and we’ll figure out the best option based on their needs, at a price they can afford. If we don’t think we can help, we’ll try to recommend someone else who can.

EK: What is your process like?

Sean: Our customers provide us with their text and photos, and we organize them into an effective website that’s built properly and looks great. Once the website is completed, we provide our customers with ongoing training through our bi-weekly SlamCamp classes on website management, search engine optimization, social media, and everything else they’ll need to continue to grow their business online.

EK: What kind of websites do Slamdot specialize in?

Sean: We specialize in small business informational websites. The marketing strategy behind a website is to convert traffic into qualified leads. It’s a business tool, and we understand that. So, our goal is to trigger people to contact you once they’ve done some initial research about your company through your website.

EK: Do you offer custom websites?

Sean: Sure, but most of our customers opt for the cost savings of working with one of our existing professional designs that we can customize individually. Since it’s the code and content that will ultimately determine your success in search engines, utilizing one of our existing designs will save considerable money that would have been spent on just creating a unique look.

Slamdot Store
108 South Gay Street
Knoxville, TN 37902
865.238.5600
www.slamdot.com

In 1972, on the corner of Sutherland Avenue and Concord Street, Bill Cox Senior struck a deal to share a small space with the local flea market, an area now simply known as a booth. With his undying faith and his wife Linda by his side, he convinced a furniture manufacturer to sell him his first round of merchandise on consignment. He began selling carpet, furniture and salvage while raising his family. Bill Senior’s life lessons were simple, like his business plan, and have proven to stand the test of time some 40 years later.

Sell quality merchandise at a reasonable price.
Always educate the consumer.
Stand behind what you sell.
Be careful what you promise.
Help the less fortunate.
Treat others as you wish to be treated.

Everything Knoxville: How important has your family been to the success of your business?

Bill Senior: I’d say the major advantage of working with your family is that we all share a common vision, passion and dedication to serving our customers, many of whom have been with us since 1972.


EK: You really are a family-run business. How many Coxes work here at Bill Cox Furniture?


Bill Senior: Well, I’m always here. And so is my wife, Linda, who without we would have never succeeded. In addition, there is my daughter, son, nephew and our dedicated associates, who are our extended family.

EK: How has Bill Cox Furniture adapted to the rapidly evolving furniture industry?

Bill Senior: Adapting to our changing marketplace has not been that challenging, because of the stability resulting from family members committed to the same core beliefs for 40 years.

EK: Bill Junior, at what point did you realize that you were going to follow in your father’s footsteps?

Bill Junior: I started on a delivery truck at age 12. At the end of each 12 to 13 hour day dad rewarded me with whatever loose coins he had in his pocket that day. I never thought of myself as “working in the furniture business” as much as I did “working with my dad,” who I respected and admired. I was never bred to pursue the family business. It all came very naturally to me.

EK: Has working with two generations of Coxes and multiple generations of clients proven to be a challenge?


Bill Junior: I rarely think about the age differences between my father and myself and our customers and myself. Because of our well-known commitment to our shared beliefs, age has never been an issue. The age of many of our customers who have bought from dad since 1972, however, demonstrates their acceptance of these same core beliefs.

EK: You claim that “If you didn’t shop Cox… you didn’t shop.” Explain.

Bill Junior: While furniture is functional, it has an intrinsic value beyond its function. We don’t regard our products as merely furniture, but rather important items that, when combined, help to make your house a home, and a place where a lifetime of memories will be created. While other stores sell function, we help create dreams.

EK: Tell us about your new Bill Cox Home signature line of furniture.

Bill Senior: We combined our vast experience in the furniture industry with the quality, styles and designs our customers have come to expect from Bill Cox Furniture to create the Bill Cox Home signature series of furniture. The result is an eclectic line of home furnishings of exceptional quality at affordable prices.


EK: Why do you and your mother continue to travel to the furniture market several times each year to hand pick each and every piece of furniture sold at Bill Cox Furniture?

Bill Junior: Simply put, we know our customers. We know the styles, designs, colors and fabrics that they are looking for. Online and catalog shopping just won’t suffice. We want to feel, touch and see each furniture piece we select for our customers.

EK: If your customers see it… buy it… can they actually get it the next day?

Bill Junior: Absolutely. You’ve got our word on it.

EK: What can each of you share about the other that our readers may not know?

Bill Senior: Talking about my son is easy. He is one of the most caring individuals you’re likely to meet. I’m proud of his commitment to our family’s business and his dedication to each and every customer. He goes the extra mile for each of them.

Bill Junior: What many of your readers may not know about dad is that when he started the business, he sold furniture during the day and delivered it in the evenings. Dad is also unbelievably patient and a very caring individual, which is why people who purchased furniture from him in the early years now shop at Bill Cox Furniture with their grandchildren forty years later. They know that our father is a man of his word who will never stray from his core principles and beliefs.

Bill Cox Furniture
10513-D Kingston Pike
Knoxville, TN 37922
865.670.1101
www.billcoxfurniture.com

Founded in 1978, The Lily Pad Boutique has become an icon for women in East Tennessee, but also for women from as far away as Chicago, New York, Atlanta and everywhere else in between. The Lily Pad Boutique has come to symbolize much more than just the area’s premier destination for women in search of the latest in designer fashions and trends. It also represents the vision and passion of its founder, Brenda Bryan.

The Lily Pad was launched 33 years ago at a time when women entrepreneurs were clearly in the minority. Brenda, whether she acknowledges it or not, has become a role model for other women-owned small businesses that today launch new start-ups at twice the rate of their male contemporaries. This month Everything Knoxville is privileged to interview The Lily Pad Boutique’s owner and founder, Brenda Bryan.

Everything Knoxville: What was your inspiration for The Lily Pad Boutique?

Brenda Bryan: My passion for fashion and for merchandising! Seeing a need in this area for moderate to better ladies wear, I trusted that gut feeling and ran with it. I’ve found true gratification in my chosen life path and try each day to pass along that joy to my customers in some small way… a great new product, a great deal now and then… a wonderful fit to make them look and feel better or a simple little thing like a smile and a warm greeting!

EK: What would you describe as the single greatest reason for the success of The Lily Pad Boutique?


Brenda: Starting small really fostered my entrepreneurial spirit and allowed me to be scrappy, creative and easily take risks. By surrounding myself with a great team of dedicated, creative people who understand that customer service goes far beyond making a sale, I’m constantly inspired… I’m very blessed to have such a phenomenal team!

EK: Were you surprised when you discovered that women were traveling hundreds of miles to visit The Lily Pad Boutique?

Brenda: Yes, absolutely, especially when it first began! We now ship merchandise daily to many cities nationwide! Most recently we received an email from a customer in Raleigh, NC who was shopping at a cosmetics counter there and recognized what another customer was wearing as being Lily Pad fashions! The two of them had quite a conversation, I understand!

EK: Some women believe that raising a family is an obstacle to building a successful small business, yet you raised a family and succeeded. How do you account for that?

Brenda: Starting the shop on a much smaller scale allowed me the time to be available as our daughters were growing up. During their high school and college years they worked part time, attended markets with me and were a part of the growing process. It’s much easier for your family to understand the stress you’ll sometimes be under when they are involved and aware of your business demands.

EK: Why did you choose historic downtown Sweetwater for the location of your boutique?

Brenda: Because of the central location, almost midway between Knoxville and Chattanooga; also, a charming 100-year-old building became available to purchase, thus allowing me to redesign the space into everything a great boutique needed… a sale room, a coffee bar, a comfortable seating area, plus ample floor space for displaying the merchandise… and most of all the character that comes with these fabulous older buildings! Our historic downtown is a wonderful destination, whether for a day or an overnight, offering unique shops and eateries! Beginning in May, a walking tour will be available featuring all of the historic landmarks. Maps will guide visitors along the sites.

EK: You’ve been happily married for over 40 years to your husband, David. How has David supported you in achieving your goals?


Brenda: Being a businessman himself, David’s first bit of advice to me was “There’s no product you can sell that someone up or down the street can’t sell also, so you have to make sure you do it a little bit better than everyone else.” I’ve never forgotten this and constantly try to do it “a little bit better.” My husband is my financial advisor, my “Mr. fix it,” and patiently listens to all of my stories at the end of each day whether they’re of frustration or elation!

EK: What recommendations would you offer to an aspiring mom with young children if she’s contemplating starting a small business of her own?

Brenda: Make sure you’re very disciplined and constantly reinvent yourself every day. Maintain a high energy level by taking care of yourself and find a balance with your personal life. Business owners are always ON… it takes a lot of work to turn it OFF! Balancing a career and family is always a challenge as a working mom; a family who is very supportive of your career, understanding the tradeoffs you’ll all have to make, is essential. Be prepared to work hard; owning your own business can be fun and rewarding, but behind the scenes it’s a lot of hard work. Be ready to pay your dues… don’t be afraid to start at the bottom and work your way up!

EK: What does the future look like for The Lily Pad Boutique?

Brenda: My plan is always to be humble and hungry for perfection in the Lily Pad’s future… to continue to strive for excellence in all that we do… to go that extra mile for our customers and to constantly embrace change.

The Lily Pad Boutique
209 N. Main Street in Sweetwater
423.337.5537
www.sweetwaterlilypad.com