Coming Soon - Gwendolyn's Gate Retail Location!

Yes, Gwendolyn's Gate is expanding into retail! The new location is in downtown Palatine - 117 W. Slade St. Oh - we are so excited!
This will be our 2nd location. Our Lake Villa location will be the web based operation and to service our Lake County clients.

Our open date will be posted soon along with our Grand Opening celebration!

Here is our concept for Gwendolyn's Gate:

As you enter Gwendolyn’s Gate it will seem as if you entered a garden of paradise filled with luxurious items to make you feel beautiful and comfortable with who you are.

The décor will be French Country. The displays and other fixtures will be white with glass, wood, wrought iron and metal too! Flowers, vines and butterflies will adorn the store and fixtures adding to the concept of a garden and the beauty of Gwendolyn’s Gate. Pleasing the senses for all who enter.

The offerings at Gwendolyn’s Gate will be plentiful. Chrysalis Skin Care a luxurious line to assist in reducing the signs of aging and to make you feel comfortable with the skin you’re in. The aromatic delight of each product will also enlighten your senses. Create your own body cream, bath gel and bath salts at our AromaCove with the many different fragrant blends offered. We have floral, fruity, woods, spice and some combined to compliment your own body’s chemistry. Our apparel will be that of comfort—pj’s, robes and other wear to relax in and feel good upon your skin. Accessories for the added benefit of our offerings—hair clips, spa gloves and socks, eye mask, unique ornate perfume bottles, and bath accessories to compliment your desires. You will also have the opportunity to create unique gift baskets for that special someone with all the offerings at Gwendolyn’s Gate.

Come discover what Gwendolyn’s Gate—Garden of Paradise can do for you!
Stay tuned for more info to come!

Tag You're It!

Tag You're It!

I've been tagged by http://kdcevents.blogspot.com/

Here are six quirky things about me! Now that you have been tagged you must do the same.

1. When I deviate from a (normal) routine I get out of sorts.
2. I have to eat my salad at the end of my meal and not before.
3. When making coffee, the pot has to be lined up evenly on the burner - centered!
4. I love to rearrange furniture. At my house at least once a month and even when I go to someones home I will make a suggestion and find myself moving furniture or rearranging something!
5. When I am on the phone and another call comes in I tell the person I am talking to to Hold On not once but a couple times before I take other call. I guess I want to make sure they heard me not only the first time but the second - hmmmm!
6. Although I have most my body parts with the exception of my tonsils, my big toe on my left foot does not bend and is noticeably shorter than the big toe on my right. This also causes a balance problem at times.

Here's to you're it!

1. Meredith http://dailydosecoffee.blogspot.com
2. Mouyna Moore http://allnaturalbeautyaddiction.blogspot.com
3. Elaine B. http://hipnchic.Blogspot.com
4. Thom Fleming http://thomflemingskincare.blogspot.com
5. Beth Anderson http://mychicthings.blogspot.com
6. Anu n http://indianmakeupdiva.blogspot.com

The rules are as follows:
* Link the person who tagged you* Mention the rules in your blog* Tell about six unspectacular quirks of your’s* Tag six following bloggers by linking them* Leave a comment on each of the tagged blogger’s blogs letting them know they’ve been tagged

Mother's Day Only 2 Weeks Away - Gift Ideas To Please The Senses!

A gift of beauty is a wonderful way to express your love and appreciation. Flowers, cards, jewelery, bath and body care, or a nice brunch to celebrate the day! Even let Mom have her day to celebrate the way in which she chooses.
A gift handmade is just as beautiful and easy to make. Here are a couple ideas that are sure please the senses!
Luxurious Aromatic Bath Salts: 2 lbs. Sea Salt, 1 lb. Epsom Salt, 1 oz carrier oil (almond or avocado), 3 oz's of dendritic salt, and 1 tablespoon fragrance oil of choice. Blend the sea and epsom salts, add the carrier oil. In a separate bowl blend the dendritic salt and fragrance oil then add to the rest of the blend. Package in a glass container or other of choice decorate with ribbons and bows and personalize too!
Exfoliating Scrub: Combine equal amounts of carrier oil (almond, avocado or sunflower) and sea salt, add a small amount of liquid soap such as castille or glycerin to make a cleansing scrub, fragrance of your choice (1 teaspoon per 4 oz jar). Mix well and package in a glass container and decorate as you choose. Please note that this will have to be mixed well with each use.
Candles and Soap: Did you know that you can save the remnants and remelt in a double boiler and place in a mold?
Natural Mobiles: Did you know that you could make a mobile by using cinnamon sticks, lavender and other dried flowers? Purchase of ring from your local craft store, use string or clear line to hang the ornaments. This is a beautiful fragrant delight! Embellish with crystals, beads and other charms to add flair!
Happy Crafting!

Extra Extra Read All About It...................

Gwendolyn's Gate has expanded with 2 new partners.
April 25th 2008 marked a new journey for Gwendolyn's Gate with the addition of Ms. Christine McKee and Ms. Lisa Crowley. We are excited about this new venture and can't wait for all our plans to come to fruition.
Christine's specialty is in Marketing and Business Development. Also, just FYI, Political Science - be ready for a good debate on Politics and Religion if ever brought up. Lisa's specialty is in bookkeeping, accounting, and new innovative ideas. With the 3 of us combined - "Look Out" - we are ready to conquer.
The decision to partner was a long thought out process. But, I knew if I wanted Gwendolyn's Gate to continue with the successes experienced I needed the right people by my side.
Stay tuned for more information on the expansion of Gwendolyn's Gate! You will be surprised as to what is coming next!

Yummy Chicken Salad With Grapes & Sunflower Seeds

This delicious chicken salad is quite easy to make and heart healthy! It is sure to delight your senses!
Recipe: 2 cups diced chicken, 1/2 cup yogurt plain or lemon, 1 cup thinly sliced seedless red or green grapes (red my fave), 1 green onion thinly sliced (include some of the green), 1 celery stalk thinly sliced, 1/3 cup sunflower seeds, 1 tablespoon orange juice, 1 teaspoon honey. Mix all ingredients in a bowl serve on top of salad greens and avocado wedges! Yummy yummy for the tummy! And great for the hips too! Enjoy!

Celebrating My Anniversary

Happy Anniversary to my husband Ken. Today, we celebrate 8 years of our beautiful marriage together.
The reasons why I fell in love with Ken and married him are quite simple. He is a very loyal man who is devoted to his family, true to himself and others, kind, thoughtful, and very gentle. Ken is true to his word and willing to help others. He loves my daughter, and calls her his own, and admires our grandchildren who just adore him so. Poppy, is his name to Kenzey (3 1/2 yrs old) and Kayley (soon to be 2) in memory of his grandfather in which he loved and adored so dearly. And most of all he loves me with all his heart and is very supportive in all that I do.
Our 8th anniversary is different this year - for we are celebrating it apart. Although, this may seem sad, but when I tell you why you will understand. Just last week, Ken was temporarily layed off from work on Thursday to be exact. On that night he received a phone call from his Uncle Don about needing a new roof on his home in Hilton Head on the beach. Uncle Don had stated that he was having a hard time finding a company he felt he could trust in replacing his roof. Now mind you, Ken, many years ago did roofing for a living and replaced the roof on his Uncles house here in Illinois. Ken's response was, "You caught me just at the right time. I have been laid off work and I will see you soon". With that said he rounded up a crew of 3 (his brother and 2 nephews) and off to South Carolina they went to help his Uncle in time of need. I admire Ken for being so loyal and true helping his family in time of need. When he first told me that he was going, there was a fleeting moment when I was sad realizing that he would not be here to celebrate our aniversary. But, understanding how important it was for Ken to be there for his Uncle, I encouraged him to go and to take time to enjoy himself. If the tables were turned he, too, would understand.
So, heres to my husband Ken, who is wonderful, loyal and true! I Love You and can't wait to see you!

"Chrysalis" - Specific Wrinkle Cream

It's a beautiful Sunny Monday and things are cooking at Gwendolyn's Gate. In about 1 month our new wrinkle cream will be ready for testing. We have found ingredients that specifically reduce the signs of aging and now with further research we have discovered yet another ingredient that will only enhance the age defying effects. With this ingredient we have decided to create a cream for you to use directly on areas that need specific attention. Such as the eyes, upper lip, between the brows, and frown lines. The use of this new cream along with Chrysalis Facial Butter will further improve your skins tone and texture. We are so excited about this and can't wait to share with you the results and of course the product itself. Stay tuned for updates on Chrysalis' new wrinkle cream!
Click on the heading above to read testimonials on Chrysalis Skin Care and what it can do for you! Chrysalis - It's All About Transformation!

A Beautiful Day At "Take A Step For Kids!

It was a beautiful day at "Take A Step For Kids". Although, the sun was hiding the rain subsided for this great event. The turnout was wonderful and the participants ranged from the very young to the, shall we say, more mature.
Gwendolyn's Gate was one of the many sponsors to participate in this event to raise awareness and help support Abused Children allowing CYN to provide them with the resources needed to fulfill a better life. Kudos to the Community Youth Network of Grayslake for all their services and raising awareness!
If you would like to help support this cause please click on the heading above to be directed to CYN's web site to learn how you too can help in the efforts of these Children!

WXLC 102.3 In Lake County - Live April 19th at Take A Step For Kids

On April 19th, 9:00 am come join in the fun at the Community Youth Network - Take A Step For Kids Independence Grove Forest Preserve, Libertyville, Il.
Meet WXLC 102.3 Lake County's very own radio station playing the best variety!
Just recently, I had the opportunity to speak with Haynes Johns from WXLC and discovered that the radio station is involved in many events throughout Lake County. What a great station supporting the community! Click on the heading above to learn more about WXLC 102.3 - and tune in for your listening pleasure!
You, too, can support your community by attending the 5th Annual Take a Step for Kids! Don’t forget to bring the children…Bubba the Art Bus from Artwork’s Children Museum will be there for the kids to make the most beautiful art you will ever see!
Come on - let's have some fun and there are prizes to be won!

Don't Be Afraid To Expose Yourself With The Skin You're In!

After a long harsh winter, prepare your skin to return to it's natural beautiful glow to wear your Spring and Summer clothes. Don't be afraid to expose yourself!
Between our environment and the outside elements our skin becomes dry, flaky, and may even cause itching. What I have discovered throughout the years is that it is very important to exfoliate your skin, removing the dead skin cells allowing your moisturizer to penetrate deeply.
Gwendolyn's Gate Chrysalis skin care offers a luxurious Body Gloss to exfoliate, and gently cleanse to refresh and revitalize your skin. This beauty treatment will enhance both the body and mind.
Expose yourself - feeling beautiful in the skin you're in!

Save The Date - April 17th 3:30pm - 8:00pm Fancy Nancy's Boutique

On Thursday April 17th I will be at Fancy Nancy's Boutique for Ladies Night Out.

On this day we will talk about Gwendolyn's Gate Chrysalis Skin Care, have an opportunity to sample the product line, talk about the latest fashions, or to talk about other things related to beauty and fashion and just have some fun!

Since my last visit at Fancy Nancy's Boutique went so well, we have decided to make every other Thursday a Ladies Night Out. This is a great opportunity for women to get together and have a wonderful time. We look forward to seeing you there. Click on the above heading for more information on Fancy Nancy's Boutique.

Happy Birthday Kathy

This weekend my girlfriend Kathy, that I have known for 43 years turned 50 and what a great time we had.
Maureen, Kathy's sister had a surprise 50th for her and Kathy had know idea - even when she came home with her boyfriend and saw all the cars in the drive. Her response to that was Mike, her boyfriend, should talk to his neighbors and find out why so many cars were in their drive! Love Ya Kath!
Other than being able to celebrate this wonderful occasion with Kathy, I also got to see all her siblings. Now this is a big Irish family - here's all of their names Mike, Kathy, Mary, Colleen, Patrick, Maureen, Ann, and Sean. We lived on the same block - across the street from one another and oh, the memories came back. We talked about all the crazy things we use to do and of course all the fun we always had.
In Chicago, where we grew up, we lived on the best block - so many families with so many children. The days were always eventful from the plays and dances we (Kath & myself) would, shall I say produce and invite our family and friends to the kick baseball and touch football games when all the parents would attend to watch their kids play.
In all the excitement last night we decided to have another Edison Park Gang get together. If any of you are reading this please contact me by leaving a message here on the blog so that we can begin the planning for the reunion.
This weekend, by far, was the best I had in a long time. Cheer's to my long time friends and I can't wait to get together again!

Benefits Of Peppermint Essential Oil

What brings me to write about peppermint is the other day my allergies were in full swing. I felt absolutely terrible from the runny nose, watery eyes to the exhaustion allergies can cause. By the time I took my medication it was too late. Although, the symptoms subsided the affects were still there - especially the exhaustion.
My work day was booked with the production of 307 Peppermint Foot Scrubs to be delivered on April 15th. This was a God send - because I use pure essential oil of peppermint in my scrub my energy returned and the runny nose and watery eyes subsided. I was energized, production went well, and the tasks were met for the day. Because of how the peppermint essential oil affected me, I would like to share with you some of the history behind the peppermint plant with all that it has to offer.
Peppermint is sometimes known to be the world's oldest medicine. There is archaeological evidence dating this plant as far back as 10,000 years. Peppermint flowers are large nectar producers and honey bees as well as other nectar harvesting organisms forage them heavily. The uses of peppermint are plentiful. You will find peppermint in cosmetics, toiletries, pharmaceuticals, culinary delights, topical agents, and is taken internally.
Some of the properties in peppermint are as follows: antibiotic, antidepressant, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, astringent, stomachic, antispasmodic, sedative, antiseptic, digestive, expectorant, stimulant, tonic (nerve), and vasoconstrictor to name a few.
The benefits of this wonderful plant are also incredible and may be used in many different ways. Such as an inhalant, topical applications, taken internally, added to a bath or lotions and oils to help relax and act as an anti-inflammatory for muscles, a great ingredient for soaps, and may be added to many foods as a flavoring agent. Here are some of the ailments that peppermint will help alleviate: acne, bronchitis, clears the sinuses, colds, coughs, dermatitis, eczema, flatulence, indigestion and irritated colon, mouth or gum infections, muscular pain, mental fatigue, headache, migraine, motion sickness, hysteria, insect bites, and poor circulation. As you can see there are many ways in which peppermint may be used. Also, a recent report from Italy has shown that patients who took peppermint oil capsules for 4 weeks had a major reduction in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms.
Another interesting fact about peppermint oil is that it is an "all-natural way" to deter ants from being inside and outside your home. Just apply to desired areas in sparse amounts until the ants are discouraged from returning. Please note that the application will have to be reapplied every few days.
To grow peppermint it is best to do so in a container - it expands quickly by underground rhizomes. Plant in part-sun to shade areas and needs a good water supply.
As you can see, peppermint essential oil and the plant should be in every home and garden. A beautiful way to enhance your well being.

Take A Step For Kids April 19th 2008 9:00 am

Take A Step For Kids - April 19th, 2008 - 9AM
Independence Grove Forest Preserve - Ready…Get Set…Come and join us for the 5th Annual Take a Step for Kids! Once again this year, our friends from the 102.3 WXLC morning show will be broadcasting live from our event with prize to be won! And don’t forget to bring the children…Bubba the Art Bus from Artwork’s Children Museum will be there for the kids to make the most beautiful art you will ever see!
We hope to see you there. To learn more about this event and this wonderful organization, "Community Youth Network" please click on the heading above.
After reading about CYN, I am sure you will want to participate in this great event. Gwendolyn's Gate is honored to be one of many sponsors for CYN and we will continue to participate in future events.
Come on let's have some fun at The Independence Grove Forest Preserve, Libertyville, Il.

French Green Clay - The Many Benefits

French Green Clay is by far the most luxurious and effective mineral skin clays used throughout the world. Because of the high mineral content this clay may be used for treating acne, skin disorders, assist in reducing pores and the signs of age/sun spots. For the mature skin it has a beautiful anti-aging effect due to the rich minerals increasing circulation to the connective tissues while enabling oxygen to speed the elimination of impurities in your skin. It may be used to balance combination skin, normalize oily skin, and revitalize dry skin. The clay also has antiseptic and healing properties, and an emollient which leaves the skin silky smooth. Wow, can you think of a better clay or way to help keep your skin looking beautiful?
It is quite easy to use French Green Clay as a mask - simply add water to create a paste, apply to your skin and let sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse and apply you favorite moisturizer. You will be amazed at the beautiful results - which are immediate. Please note that you may add other natural ingredients to enhance the many benefits of the French Green Clay.
To identify this clay make sure that it is green or off green in color. French Green Clay is as stated "Green"!
Click on the heading above to read the testimonials on Gwendolyn's Gate - "Chrysalis" French Green Clay.

Home Shows - A Great Way To Promote Your Product

As part of my marketing strategy for 2008, I decided to implement Home Shows into my plan. The reason in doing so was not only to increase the recognition of Chrysalis Skin Care but, I also realized that when it comes to your skin it is unlikely that someone would purchase my product (from the web site) without personally being referred or experiencing the results. Although, I do have testimonials on my web site, I want to reach as many woman as possible and let them experience Chrysalis for themselves.
Yesterday, for the first time, I was involved in a Home Show and the results were great. One of reasons why is that the 2 woman, Lisa and Cindy, who hosted the show use my product and they themselves were a live testament as to how Chrysalis can work for you. The first woman who walked up to my table was sold instantly on the product after listening to Lisa and Cindy, sampling the product and noticing the immediate results. From then on everything went well. The product sold and I now have other shows booked. Also, those who bought wanted to know if I had a web site to reorder - this too is extremely important to have.
Keep in mind that having a marketing plan is important. But, you must have a target group in which you want to reach. Mine is the mature woman. I created Chrysalis specifically to help reduce the signs of aging and to keep your skin looking beautiful and radiant making you feel beautiful and good about yourself.
I am now looking forward to promoting Chrysalis with Home Shows and can't wait to meet more woman who want to look and feel beautiful!

Thom Fleming Skin Care - Winner Of Chrysalis Peppermint Foot Scrub

Congrats to Thom Fleming Skin Care - winner of the March Madness Contest. The lucky participants have won Chrysalis Peppermint Foot Scrub to help sooth tired worn feet - refreshing both the body and mind.
I would also like to take this opportunity to introduce Thom Fleming Skin Care. The story behind this company is quite interesting and very heart warming.
Thom Fleming, founder of Thom Fleming Skin Care, began his passion for creating natural healing products several years ago. While filming in Jordan, Thom fell in love with the Dead Sea and was intrigued by the healing properties of the elements found. Upon his return to the United States he began blending natural ingredients of fruits, oils, vitamins, and Dead Sea salt to develop a beautiful line of body scrubs. With the encouragement of a dear friend to market his product, Thom turned his passion into a business. Over the last several years Thom has manufactured a limited amount of product exclusively for his famous friends.
In 2007 Thom Fleming had passed away. To keep Thom's dream alive his parents had turned to his three best friend and asked that they continue his work. As loved one's would only do, Thom Fleming Skin Care is still thriving today carrying on the dreams of Thom and keeping his legacy alive.
As a business owner in the beauty and skin care industry I am honored to be recognized by a company with such great passion and integrity. It is heart warming to know that the loved ones of Thom are keeping his spirit and passion alive.
I highly recommend you check out Thom Fleming Skin Care by clicking on the heading above. You, too, can help keep Thom's passion alive!

Fancy Nancy's Boutique & Promoting Gwendolyn's Gate Chrysalis Skin Care

Yesterday, upon visiting Fancy Nancy to check on sales and inventory I was met with a wonderful surprise. I ran into a woman, Lisa, I have not seen in approximately 15 years. Throughout our discussion, as most women do, we talked about our age and complimented one another on our appearance. She had also asked what I was doing at the boutique. I took the opportunity to introduce my line of skin care to Lisa. She was very impressed and decided to purchase the facial care. Fancy Nancy had also mentioned that she uses the line, and 2 other women, Nancy, and Patti who were in the boutique also mentioned that they use Chrysalis. This added to the sale of my product, along with the appearance of the 2 Nancy's and Patti's skin and their testimonial as to how Chrysalis works for them.
Since we had such a wonderful time promoting Chrysalis, Fancy Nancy and myself have decided that I should make frequent visits to the boutique to assist in promoting Gwendolyn's Gate.
Beginning April 17th, I will visit Fancy Nancy's Boutique every other Thursday from 3:30 pm to 8:00 pm. The location is 117 W. Slade St, Palatine, IL 847-202-9370.
Come and chit chat awhile, we had a great time from trying on clothes - getting opinions from other women visiting the boutique to talking about our skin care. And of course the aging process. Also, it's about Women Supporting Women! A wonderful way to meet and make new friends!
Click on the above heading to find out more about Fancy Nancy's Boutique.
Hope to see you there soon!

Cocoa Butter - Information You Should Know

Known as the ultimate moisturizer with luxurious emollient properties, cocoa butter has been used for centuries to keep skin soft and supple. It is sometimes recommended for treatment of certain skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. When applied topically it also helps to create a barrier between your skin and the elements and helps to retain moisture. {Please note that in rare cases sensitive individuals have had skin reactions to this substance.} Cocoa butter has also been used by pregnant woman to prevent and treat stretch marks. When used in lotions and oils during aromatherapy massages it helps promote feelings of relaxation and an overall sense of well-being. Cocoa butter, like chocolate, contains a lot of CMP (cocoa mass polyphenol) and research indicates that massaging the skin with cocoa butter may help relieve stress, boost the immune system, and even prevent cancer. In Japan, researchers reported that CMP inhibits the growth of cancerous cells and tumors, and there is some evidence that the CMP in cocoa butter may also help prevent heart disease and alleviate arthritic symptoms. Other research indicates that the CMP may help individuals with conditions related to an overactive immune system such as psoriasis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and fibromyalgia by suppressing the T-cell activity.
It's amazing what this sweet aromatic butter can do for you. Another fact is that cocoa butter contains natural antioxidants that prevent rancidity and give it a long shelf live - up to 5 years. Also, because cocoa butter has a low melting point, just below body temperature, it melts when applied to the skin.
Although cocoa butter is an ingredient found in many topical preparations, you may purchase pure cocoa butter at your local health food store, pharmacy, or online distributors.
If you like to create there are plenty of recipes available online for cocoa butter applications. You will love the effects of this rich butter - from the aroma to the luxurious emollient properties.

Increase Your Recognition On The Web

Here are a few tips that I have discovered to increase your recognition on the internet. First and most important advertise your site on all print material you have from your business cards to your labels on your product. Second, create a blog. You can do this at no cost and it's fun because you can update your blog every day making it your own creation. After creating your blog join the online networks - there are many available. In doing this you can again write about yourself and business. Also, a lot of the networks allow you to "ping" your blog - posting articles that you have written. Or you may create your own blog within the online network. List in the online directories such as YellowPages, YellowBook, etc. You will be amazed at how easy this is to do and will notice an increase in visits to your web site, blog, and the recognition you will receive in joining the online networks.
Since creating my web site, blog and joining the online networks the monthly visits to my site have increased overall by 75%. Therefore, increasing my recognition on the web. Keep in mind it has only been 6 months since the inception of my web site.
I am sure that once you take the time to enlist in all that is available on the web you will be pleased with the results.
Happy Surfing!