Happy Holidays!

We wish you and yours a healthy and festive season, from all of us here at kikaPaprika!

kikaCares about Hope Gardens

kikaCares joined together to make 31 customized gift packages for the mothers at Hope Gardens this month. We sent out a questionnaire to the women on their specific sizes and color preferences, then gave them a new kikaPaprika jacket, pant, and top! The women will open the gifts on Christmas Day.

Currently, 31 mothers and 59 children, as well as 22 senior adults reside at Hope Gardens Family Center. In just under a year, 16 families have successfully transitioned from Hope Gardens into permanent housing, a 55% success rate.
On July 21, 2008, Union Rescue Mission celebrated the first year anniversary of its Hope Gardens Family Center. Union Rescue Mission (URM) is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the poor and the homeless. Established in 1891, URM is one of the largest rescue missions of its kind in the United States and is the oldest in Los Angeles. It provides a comprehensive array of emergency and long-term services, including food, shelter, clothing; medical and dental care; Christian recovery programs, transitional housing, legal assistance, education, counseling, and job training to needy men, women, children, and families. For more information, please visit http://www.hopegardens.org/

EVA: Runway Chic

The Eva has an exquisite drape and care-free fit that will leave you feeling like you just stepped off the runway! It features pockets and a deep V-neck for a sexy yet sophisticated look. If you are feeling more conservative you can layer it over a lace cami or the Cosette (732K). The Eva is available in black or peacock micro-modal.

WINTER LOOKS to try with the Eva:

Eva + Fitted Blue Jeans + Patented Leather Black heels

Eva + Lace Cami + Hanky Hem Skirt (806K) + Panty Hose + Booties or Ankle Boots

Eva + Wide Leg Gray Pants + Tights + Heels + Large Jeweled Accessories

Eva + Patterned Knee Length A-Line Skirt + Knee Length High Heel Boots

Eva + Cosette Tank (732K) + Black Pants + Black Heels (pictured above)

TREND: COSY CHIC LAYERS

Layering clothes can be quite a science. The key is to create balance within the layers to ensure you look fashionable and not frumpy. Above we started with an 805B Yoga skirt in Mocha and a Hacienda Tank. Layered on top is a 145 C Lucy in white (tied in the back) and a kikaCares scarf in Mocha! You can try this at home too! Start with a good solid base like our Relaxed Fit Pant in Black, and a 701B Black tank. Next put on a colored Taylor like Cherry, then a matching Cherry Jessie. Top it off with a floppy knitted winter hat and/or kikaScarf! Layering is fun!

Simple Holiday Solution

By Heath Andrews

It’s the Holiday season and everyone is busy, busy, busy! With the rush of things to get done it’s easy to neglect your own needs. You’d be amazed at how many women forget all about the outfits they’ll need for upcoming family get-togethers, dinners, or work functions until, last minute, they find themselves scurrying around the mall in a panic. What a recipe for disaster! I’ve got a better idea. KikaPaprika! It’s your simple Holiday solution—no lengthy trips to the mall, no fighting crowds, and no hassles. All you need is 60-90 minutes for a personal or small group consultation. Instead of getting suckered into buying something you’ll never wear again, with Kika you’ll always get clothing that’s versatile and fun that you’ll love wearing (and still fit in) long after the festivities have ended.

Still need more incentive? Ok. Let’s throw in customer and hostess specials! For a limited time you can get our Reese print dress for only $65 (regularly $92)

and our limited edition Bree Wrap jacket for $55 (regularly $88). As a Hostess you will be the envy of all your friends in our stunning Hostess Only 3-piece ensemble for as little as $55—that’s a savings of $107! With budget friendly options like these, how can you or your friends say ‘No’?

How about presents and stockings full of Kika this Christmas? Write up your Wish List, along with names and phone numbers of friends and family to contact, and let your Fashion Consultant do the rest—she’ll even gift wrap everything! But, why stop there? What woman in your life wouldn’t want Kika for Christmas? We have everything you need—from clothing, jewelry, and scarves to gift certificates. Sometimes it truly is better to give than to receive…but who said you couldn’t have both?

kikaPaprika truly is your simple Holiday solution.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Background image by: © Michael Flippo Dreamstime.com

"I am most thankful to have a flexible job that allows me to care

for my children and my elderly mother!"

~Bonnie Tetrault

"I am thankful for the doors the Lord opens and gives us the courage to walk through. I am grateful for the love and support of friends and family and for the dreams turned realities I have experienced with Kika. I am grateful for the amazing women I am surrounded by & am in awe of the beauty & talent within each of them."

~Heath Andrews

"I am REALLY thankful for comfy clothes--I hate to be uncomfortable.

I'm thankful for elastic waist pants for Thanksgiving!"

~Jennifer Von Behren

"I am thankful for my family, friends, faith in God and the ability to provide green paths for others to keep themselves healthy through yoga and tai chi, green chic clothes to keep themselves looking great on the outside and the many opportunities to substitute for teachers who need a rest!"

~Sue Swinick

"I am thankful for a flexible career that's FUN and rewarding!
Thankful for a wonderful product and for my customers who support me!
I'm most thankful for health and my family!"
~Cindi Valentine Johnson

"I am thankful for the amount of support I am getting from my family on starting my new little business!"

~Stacy Williams Vetter

"I am thankful for family, health & beauty"

~Vicki Orgill

kikaCares about Haven House

On Monday, November 16, our volunteers were able to make 50 care bags of clothing to be distributed to the women of Haven House. The Mission of Haven House is to help abused women and their children on their way towards a life free of violence by providing a safe haven for them. This includes counseling services for women and their children in residence, follow-up support services for former residents, and counseling for community clients who are not residents of the shelter. Haven House also strives to educate the public about domestic violence and advocate for the needs of battered women with makers for public policy. To find out more about the services they offer and how you can get involved go to http://www.havenhousela.com/

Black Friday

On Friday, November 27, all orders placed and shows closed will be shipped to the consultant and shipping will be FREE! This is a perfect opportunity to purchase now and receive your order in time for Christmas! Aunt Debbie would look fabulous in a cobalt Lexi and niece Jennifer would love a peacock striped kikaCares scarf or necklace in her stocking.

Contact your kikaConsultant now to place an order!

I Just Can't Get Enough...

This week I am really loving the Taylor. I wanted to show you some of my favorite ways to wear it in hopes to inspire you! Here I started with the Red or Black Taylor, accessorized it with co-ordinating belt and shoes, or added a jacket for a layered look! This is a great shirt for the upcoming Christmas season (order it in Forrest or Cherry) or rock it this New Years with Silver accessories (order it in Black)!

HACIENDA PRINT: Festive & Fun!

The Hacienda is one of this season's most festive and fun prints for kikaPaprika. Pair it with mocha, cherry, or winter white. It is available in our Tank (701B) to add a splash of color to your wardrobe, the Reese dress (203B) for an all over look of style, and the Olivia (737B) shown above.

kikaCares SCARF!

We are proud to be a socially responsible company that is committed to making a difference in the world. Proceeds from our accessories- like jewelry and scarves- benefit women in need. We believe in helping women and each season kikaCares features a new item that goes toward one of our humanitarian projects. This season we chose this light weight, knit, poly-cotton blend, colored stripe scarf! And for each scarf you buy kika will make a donation to one of our various women's charities.

This scarf is a perfect neck warmer for fall, winter, or a chilly spring day. Choose any of our 9 custom dye colors to make it uniquely yours. It is a great holiday gift for any age group and the best part is, for each scarf you purchase you'll be making a positive impact in another person's life!

Solid: $25 (available in black, peacock, raspberry, cherry, & forest)

Stripe: $30 (available in all colors: winter white, mocha, black, forest, navy, cherry, cobalt, raspberry, peacock)

"Dressing a better world" together.

TREND: JEWEL TONES!

Are you wondering what all the talk about jewel tones this season really means? Jewel tones refer to the rich and lavish colors of many different types of gem stones. Although many of these stones have variations in color and saturation, the deepest, most vibrant form of the color is usually what is being referred to. If you love wearing color, try this seasons cobalt, peacock, cherry, and forest. If you are more into neutrals try branching out and adding a splash of color to your wardrobe with one of our tanks (701B) or a burnout Tee (703G). You can also mix our colors with contrasting colored accessories or try different shades of one color for maximum trendiness!

Inspiring Women: Michelle Stager

Bob & Michelle Stager, Nolan-11yrs, Julia-8 yrs

kikaPaprika: Hi Michelle, tell us a little about your background and who you are.
Michelle: My name is Michelle Stager. I was born and raised in Michigan. My parents married very young and had me when they were 13 and 14 years old. They divorced when I was one year old and my dad left my older brother and myself with my mom. It was a very difficult life. My mother being a single teenage parent did the best she knew how, but that doesn't always mean the best choices. Let's just say I had a very difficult childhood. When I got into junior high I moved in with my dad for a few years, then at age 14 I moved back with my mom. In high school I was class president and a straight "A" student. I graduated 9th out of 400 students and received scholarships for college. I was accepted into one of the top nursing schools in the country, Madonna University, and I received a bachelor degree in nursing. I worked really hard during that time to put myself through school with no financial support from my family.

kP: How do you feel the circumstances of your past have affected who you are today?
M: Even though things were difficult growing up, I feel it made me a stronger woman. I think I see things in a different light because of my past. Coming from the ghetto made me have the desire to be educated and financially secure and so I worked hard for those things. One of my life quotes is, “What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger.”

kP: How do you keep a positive outlook on life?
M: When things get tough I tell myself to keep going. I try not to lose sight of where I came from and what I am becoming. I know if I think negatively, my life will become negative, so I try to focus on positive thoughts. All through the day I am telling myself, "Shine bright, choose joy, bless others." Saying this helps me keep my head up high and smile and give joy to those around me. Sometimes it’s a day by day thing and sometimes it’s hour by hour. I believe having a good support system is very important, too. I love my husband and children, and being around them is a joy for me. I’ve been doing conference calls with this year's keynote speakers from the kikaPaprika Runway conference, Susan Iida-Pederson and Jenny Aiello. They have been helping me to understand how to take care of myself first, then everything else will fall into place.

kP: What first got you interested in women's issues?
M: From a very young age I knew I wanted a different life for myself. I remember being in kindergarten and wanting to help others and be a nurse. When I went to college I was able to pursue this. I worked as a nurse for a while then later entered the labor and delivery field. I always loved being around and inspiring women. I like impacting people’s lives in a personal way.

kP: That sounds like a perfect fit with kikaPaprika. Is that what drew you to the company?
After I had my daughter and son I stopped working in the nursing field. I decided to start a home business. I started with kika in the beginning in January 2008. What drew me to it was the concept and the mission, and also that it makes women look and feel good. Now that I wasn’t in nursing anymore I thought this was a good way to stay connected with other women and continue impacting their lives in a different way.

kP: How do you fit your business into all the other things you do in life?
M: I have a schedule that I follow rigorously. I have working hours and family time. I budget my time as much as possible. I am flexible within this, though. Sometimes I just have to find what works best and then have open communication with my husband and kids, customers and friends about it.

kP: How did you make kikaPaprika uniquely yours?
M: I host a lot of nursing and health care events so I started featuring kikaPaprika clothing there. I feel health care providers “get it” as far as the importance of eco-chic clothing and taking care of the world in this way.
Also, because of my past I have learned the importance of not judging others. I treat everyone equally and I feel this has really helped me in my business to be successful.

kP: How do you relax when you are not working?
I practice yoga two times a week. I started doing this about one year ago and it really helps me. Like I said before, I've been doing conference calls with this year's keynote speakers Susan and Jenny, so to take time for myself I usually go and get a massage. Our family is spiritual too. We are catholic so we find a lot of motivational strength from God.

"Michelle is proof that with hard work and determination, you can accomplish anything.

~Kim Shaw President & Founder

The Power of 5

By: Heath Andrews

Have you ever been overwhelmed by the dizzying array of apparel available at stores nowadays? Disillusioned shoppers often fall prey to impulse buying, which leads to uninformed clothing purchases. Unfortunately, this usually leaves the ill-fated consumer with a walk-in full of mismatched separates and a healthy dose of buyer’s remorse. Or, maybe you find yourself only buying clothing in sets and never deviate from wearing the same top with its matching counterpart. Unfortunately, that can make for very monotonous dressing.

So what is the solution to these wardrobe dilemmas? The power of 5. This technique does not require divine intervention and will not break the bank. Armed with a little know-how, you can magically create 8 coordinating outfits with just 5 well chosen garments. It’s called ‘Capsule Dressing’ and is the simplest, most economical way to dress. Think about the possibilities! Clothing capsules are perfect for traveling – 5 easy care pieces are all you need for a week long trip.

Here’s how it works. Choose 1 Jacket, 2 Tops, and 2 Bottoms in coordinating colors/prints. Voila. You just made 8 easy-to-wear outfits for about $36 an outfit. Want an irresistible deal? Become a Hostess. With $1000 in show sales you can get your 5-piece capsule for as little as $77. That’s just $9.50 an outfit!

Bottom #1 + top #1
Bottom #1 + Top #1 + Jacket
Bottom #1 + Top #2
Bottom #1 + Top #2 + Jacket
Bottom #2 + Top #1
Bottom #2 + Top #1 + Jacket
Bottom # 2 + Top #2
Bottom # 2 + Top #2 + Jacket

Later, get 4 more outfits by adding one new garment or something you already own! Use the ‘Power of 5’ strategy when you shop with us, at the store, or in your closet. You’ll be amazed at the results. The best part of capsule dressing is its customized design. Tailor it specifically to fit your lifestyle, figure, and preferences. Isn’t it nice to know your knowledgeable kikaPaprika Fashion Consultant will help you each step of the way?
Here are 3 variations to get you started.

The next time you’re at a kikaPaprika show, make sure you harness the ‘Power of 5’ by creating your own 5 piece capsule. That’s what we call shopping smart!

A Letter About kikaPaprika:

"I had actually never heard of this company until I went to my friend Carmen's this past weekend. I didn't really know what to expect, but I was REALLY pleasantly surprised. I got there a little late and there was already a frenzy of women trying on clothes. What amazed me the most was the styles/fit of the clothing line and how they were designed to fit so many body types--so many of the same design fit many women in a very flattering way. It was super-stylish and versitile for anyone who works in an office, needs to look "business casual", and who also likes to be comfortable (ie, also yoga type wear). The bonus is that the fabric is environmentally friendly (and it "travels" well for suitcase packing). I care about that, but let's be honest--most of us women find it a bit challenging at times to find things that fit our unique shapes, flatters us, and looks stylish and professional. That is what surprised me most is that there were several things I liked that fit well and looked great--I can shop for hours sometimes and not accomplish that on a normal day."
Jennie
Irvine, CA

kikaTravels

kika in the city! NYC
kikaFamily at Yellowstone National Park

kikaEurope at Abbey Gardens in Suffolk, England

Ciao kika! Kika travels to Italy!

kikaMexico: cruising to Ensenada!

kikaCares about YWCA Women's Shelter

The YWCA is the oldest and largest women's membership movement in the world, beginning in England in 1858. There are over 300 associations in the USA with sister YWCA's in more than 80 countries around the world. Today, the YWCA is committed to helping women achieve their maximum potential and to correct societal conditions affecting all women and girls. The YWCA of the USA is involved in public policy such as affordable child care and health care, pro-choice, homelessness, and many other issues. The Glendale Branch of the YWCA provides confidential, emergency shelter at "Sunrise Village" through their "Domestic Violence Project."


To find out more about YWCA in your area or the Glendale YWCA visit them at:

http://www.glendaleywca.org/

REESE: Pockets of Fun

The Reese is a simple dress with pockets of fun! This is the perfect piece when you are in a hurry and don't know what to put on. You can custom order it in any of our prints! Shown above is Meadow which goes great with navy and brown. Try it in Roses or Hacienda if you are a red lover, or Organic Flower which is full of wild colors and ties in raspberry, black, forest and cobalt.

The Reese is made from our Organic Cotton Jersey and is super comfy! I never can resist a dress with pockets.

FALL LOOKS to try with the Reese:
Reese + Knee High Boots + Tights + Matching High Waist Belt (shown above)

Reese + Vest + Blazer + Neutral Tights + Booties or Ankle Boots

Reese + Solid Color Scarf + Neutral Tights + Flats
Reese + Large Chunky Necklace + Colored Tights + Heels

"Too Busy Not To"

By Heath Andrews, Wisconsin Consultant

Each morning do you wake up to a schedule packed so expertly that your calendar has to be written in code and requires the Rosetta stone for your family to decipher? Does your world titter precariously as you struggle to balance job, family, and community commitments? Let me guess, there’s simply not one minute unaccounted for—business meetings, grocery shopping, soccer games, and homework assignments stacked upon each other like a house of cards. One wrong move and your world could come toppling down.

There are so many things tugging at today’s modern woman. You naturally push your own needs aside while tirelessly caring for everyone else until you can’t remember the last time you put your feet up, soaked in the tub or went shopping with your friends. What if we told you that you are too busy not to enjoy a relaxing, personal kikaPaprika shopping experience? Impossible? O contraire! kikaPaprika is the perfect wardrobe solution for even the most hectic lifestyle. Did you know that you can indulge in a relaxing 90 minutes with friends or a private appointment attended by your own personal Fashion Consultant—for free? Or that kikaPaprika offers an entire collection of exclusive, eco-chic fashions so flattering, comfortable and versatile that you can make 8 outfits with just 5 pieces—and there’s no ironing or dry cleaning? That means each outfit only costs about $35. When was the last time a trip to the mall did that?
kikaPaprika’s innovative designs pair eco-friendly fabrics with contemporary styles created to flatter a woman’s figure. Why schlep around the mall for hours only to be frustrated and disappointed with ill-fitting, uncomfortable clothing? Now you don’t have to. Your kikaPaprika consultant is trained to help you select garments that will flatter your specific shape and fit your lifestyle. She will also help you customize a color palette to suit your tastes and maximize your wardrobing options. How ingenious!

With a wardrobe of easy care fashions, gone are the wasted hours agonizing over what to wear and endless rendezvous with your ironing board and dry cleaners. The way we see it, that should leave you with just enough time to enjoy a candlelit bath, a good book, or a power walk with your favorite pooch. Fashion. Fun. Fast. kikaPaprika--because you’re too busy not to!

TREND: TAILORED BLAZERS!

This Fall and Winter be sure to get yourself into a Lily Blazer! Though this seasons trend is about tailored lines and a sleek finish, you don't have to give up comfort. Our Lily Blazer has slimming "princess seams" in the front and back, and is made of 100% Organic French Terry. Oh la la! It can be worn for work or play. Make it funky with one of our patterned tops (Tank 701B, or the Megan 733B), or dress it up with the ruffled Scarlet (734F)! Here are other things I would wear with the Lily: a bold graphic tee, patterned scarf, and/or one of my grandma's lovely brooches!

Inspiring Women: Sandi Ervin

Sandi Ervin Interview
by: Lori Fox

Sandi Ervin is one of Kika's top consultants. I had the opportunity to interview Sandi amid her busy schedule. By the end of our phone conversation, I hung up the phone feeling energized and motivated to not only set goals and dreams, but take practical steps to make those happen. So, grab some hot tea and cozy up to your computer and get ready to be inspired!

KIKA: Hi Sandi! Tell us a little bit about yourself: Where you came from and how you ended up at kikaPaprika.

SANDI: My name is Sandi Ervin. I was born and raised in Los Angeles but had the opportunity to travel to Australia and Canada a lot since my mom and dad were from there. After meeting my husband, and the birth of our first two children, we decided to move to Spokane, Washington for a slower paced life. We have been here for 17 years and now have seven children ages 9-20. We have 6 boys and 1 girl.
I have always worked from home, and home schooled our children. My husband also works from home. I decided to be a consultant for kikaPaprika because I love working with women and helping them look and feel good. I feel customer service is important and I like working with clothes because it is a personal thing.

K: Why was having a home based business so important to you?

S: I believe family should be first. I wanted to be able to work from home and still move forward with home schooling our children and supporting my husbands home business. With having a home based business I am able to have my work go alongside my lifestyle, rather than my [personal] life being structured around my work. I love the flexibility and freedom to choose my work schedule; And it also helps me to be flexible with my customers and their schedules and needs. I like working from home because it gives an opportunity for unlimited growth in income. I can choose how much research, knowledge, and time I want to set aside to increase the business. This way I have more control over my income.

K: How are you involved in your community?

S: One of my favorite is an activity I do with the kids. I'm a dancer so we do a lot of dancing. Our dance company goes to retirement homes and does dance performances. We don't go in and do hip-hop or current dancing, though. We research music, such as vintage jazz, and dance what they would be interested in from their time. This way we get them excited and involved and reliving good memories. Afterwards the kids will hear how the elderly used to dance and get to learn a little bit of history! Other than that we just try to meet needs when we see them. For example, I was in a store and started a conversation with an older women. She was saying how she didn't have anyone to clean her floors, so I got her contact information and went home to hunt for someone to fill that need for her.

"You never know when a moment and a few sincere words can have an impact on a life.

- Zig Ziglar."

K: How do you set goals for yourself and make sure that you attain those goals?

S: I try to set reasonable goals. My motto is to "always beat my best". I make a road map and look at my time and see what will realistically fit into my schedule to make, for example, my business work. I decide how much money I want to make, then figure out how many shows I need to have to accomplish that, then I work this into my calendar. But, I also guard my time. I communicate my goals to my family so they also know when I have to work.
I don't give up. If someone cancels a show, I still work and do customer care, or whatever I need to do. And I ask myself if what I am doing during my work time will be profitable and beneficial to move the business forward. Every business has to have a plan and you have to work that plan. Everyone's plan is different because everyone's goals are different. You have to stick to it and don't give up.

" What separates the successful from the unsuccessful so many times is that the successful simply do it. They take action, they aren't necessarily smarter than others; they just work the plan."

-Jim Rohn, JIM ROHN'S WEEKLY EZINE, December 8, 2008

K: How do you overcome obstacles?

S: My philosophy is there is no such thing as an obstacle. I look at obstacles as a new opportunity and I decided to move forward. If something seems to be turning into an obstacle, I don't sit on it long and get down about it. I stay positive and reroute myself in another direction. It's all about attitude in life. You must keep a good attitude. I try to be a peacemaker and not let anything hold me back.

"Rarely does any plan succeed without a bump or a glitch."
-John Maxwell, THE MAXWELL LEADERSHIP BIBLE.

K: How do you balance your home, work, and social life?

S: I set clear boundaries and block my calendar. I make sure this is well communicated to my family, customers, and friends. I make sure not to work 24/7, even though it's exciting and sometimes I want to. I think a schedule is important for balance and I stick to my plan. I make a real work day a real work day. It helps me focus more.

K: Do you have any advice for other women?

S: Enjoy what you do whether it's activities you choose for yourself or your business. Be "others" oriented and look for needs that can be met for others. We don't have problems looking out for ourselves, our needs are usually well met. But we worry more when we are focused on our self! It's more rewarding to focus on others and their needs. I incorporate this into everyday. If a friend is not doing well and I'm going to the store i will text her and ask if she needs anything. I try to be busy doing good things, not just being busy.

"The person's true legacy is the time and effort he or she contributed to enriching others."
-Dan Sanders and Galen Walters, EQUIPPED TO LEAD

"God uses his Word, people, and circumstances to mold us. All three are indispensable for character development. God’s Word provides the truth we need to grow, God’s people provide the support we need to grow, and circumstances provide the environment to practice Christ-likeness."
-Rick Warren THE PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE DAILY DEVOTIONALS, July 24, 2008

*******************************************************************

"Sandi is truly amazing. We are fortunate and so proud to have her on our team of dedicated kika Consultants. She embodies the spirit of kikaPaprika and is an inspiration to us all."

~Kim Shaw, President and Founder of kikaPaprika

Sandi Ervin sold over $10,000 in kikaPaprika clothing during the month of September, 2009.

*Bonus Box: Get Your Craft On

This month has 5 Wednesdays! So I'm throwing in a Bonus Box! In honor of women who, like our Kika consultants, are forging their own paths, working for themselves, and doing what they love, I want to introduce you to Etsy! (http://www.etsy.com/ for those who don't already know.) Etsy is a place for all things handmade and vintage. Some of my favorite sellers are:

For fabulous jewelry check out these two

"TiffanyKunz"

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28275404

"Make Pie Not War"

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31420205

For pretty, lacey, girlie things go to

"Twigs and Honey"

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31060084

For cute handmade baby gifts,

"Mekokids"

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29136526

And for ceramics I can't get enough of

"Maid of Clay"

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30967357

I hope this inspires you to get crafty

and do what you love!

kikaCares about Working Wardrobes

"Hi Kim:

I just had an opportunity to meet your wonderful corporate spokesperson, sister-in-law, all around great woman friend - Vicki Orgill.

Vicki had met one of the Working Wardrobes Board members, Sam Dawson, and they brought in a great clothing donation to our Center today.

We are so very grateful for these donations and know that our clients will just love the comfort and feel of the fabric and designs.

I'm so impressed with the concept you have developed and the opportunities you are offering women to launch their own businesses. And, of course, I'm so grateful that you chose to donate some of your inventory to our nonprofit. There is a wonderful alignment in what we are doing!

Again, my thanks for your generosity!

Best,

Jerri L. Rosen
CEO/Founder"


Working Wardrobes is an independent nonprofit organization which helps men and women in crises re-enter the workforce through wardrobing and career development. 

You can find out more about the services they offer at:

http://www.workingwardrobes.org/

LEXI: Artistic & Sassy

The Lexi is a must have piece for your wardrobe this Fall and Winter. Pair it with long sleeves, short sleeves, 3/4 sleeves, or a tank. It's sassy and fun with an artistic flair that you create with your own accessories! Belt it under or over, add a scarf or brooch as a quick closure; There is so much you can do! It's made from our new specialty fabric with exposed seams giving it texture and a modern edge!

FALL LOOKS to try with the Lexi:
Lexi + Fitted Neutral Bold Pattern Knee Length Dress + Tights + Brown Knee High Boots
Lexi + Long Sleeve Scoop Neck Shirt + Jeans + Scarf + Booties or Ankle Boots
Lexi + Long Sleeve Shirt + Short Skirt + Tights + Belt at High Waist Over Lexi + Knee High Boots
Lexi + Solid Tank + Belt Under Lexi + Solid Pants + Heels (shown above)

TREND: STATEMENT PIECE & RUCHING!

All over the runways you can spot the "STATEMENT PIECE" trend for this season whether it's an oversized leather studded purse, pattern boots, or bold chunky jewelry. Pair it with this seasons "RUCHING" trend, and the Riley Jacket is your ticket to fashion town! The wide hood can be worn down, hugging around the shoulders or draped on top of the shoulders, or hood up! It can be worn with jeans, a short skirt and funky tights, or with leggings. For a chic look I put my black leggings on with big chunky winter boots!

Here are some other boots I'd love to wear with my Peacock Riley....

All are available at Nordstrom for under $100!

Chooka Signature Printed Rain Boot in Cheetah, $60

Northface "Nuptse Fur" Boot in Brown $90

Roxy Cascade Boot in Gray $60

Dream Storming & Dream Boards

Kim Shaw, Jenny Aiello, & Susan Iida-Pederson

At the Kika Paprika's "Road to the Runway" event in Long Beach, CA this year guest speakers Susan and Jenny inspired us with their motivational seminar about how to live your dreams! It was such a hit we want to teach you how to do it too!

ITEMS NEEDED:

-Your best girl friends
-Coffee, Tea & Chocolate
-Magazines for cutting up
-Pen & Paper
-Scissors
-Glue sticks
-Poster Board (one per person or you can split it in two)
-Dreams & Imagination

1) Call your best girlfriends and tell them to bring stacks of old magazines.

1.5) Brew some coffee and tea and get the plates of chocolate treats ready for when they arrive!

2) After everyone has arrived get out your pen and paper and take a few minutes to put the "real world" aside. Ask yourself, "If I could do anything right now and there was nothing to stop me, what would it be?" Write freely! Next ask yourself, "What would I like to do, and what do I want out of life?" Write, write, write! Do you feel the adrenaline pumping?!

3) Begin sorting through the media you have gathered to find images to represent what you have written. Is it traveling to Hawaii? Look for a picture of a beach! Is it setting aside money to remodel the house? Find a photo of what the new addition will look like! Is it planing for a new baby? Find a baby photo! You get the idea.

4) Glue the images and words onto a poster board.

5) Share your boards with your girl-friends! Tell each other what you would like to do, where you would like to go, and discuss ways you can make that happen!

6) Post your dream board somewhere that you can see it every day. Either on your wall or in your closet. Remind yourself that almost anything is possible with a little planning and hard work! (I'm not sure if "winning the lottery" counts here!)

kikaCares about New Image

Lucy Eisele, Brenda Wilson-Founder of New Image, Lynda Moran Assistant Director of New Image, Kika Pres. Kim Shaw, Kika V.P. Kirstyn Shaw

On August 24th during the "Road to the Runway" event, consultants and sales representatives were able to be involved first hand in kikaCares. Brenda Wilson, Founder, Operator and CEO of the New Image Shelter, and her twin sister Lynda Moran, Assistant Director of New Image (pictured above), spoke with us about the challenges and triumphs they are currently facing. Gift bags were made for homeless and low income women who are trying to get back on their feet. The bag included a new wardrobe (over $500 worth of Kika clothing), toiletries, and a personalized note of encouragement!

The MISSION of New Image is to: (1) decrease and (2) prevent homelessness throughout Los Angeles County by providing comprehensive Case Management and Supportive Services, housing, job search and placement, outreach, and referral services.

We were excited and honored to take part in what New Image is doing in Southern California.

More information about New Image can be found on their web-site at http://www.newimageshelter.org/