2nd Day Of Spring In Illinois

This is the result of the winter storm in Spring. Although, we expected a lot more snow we still had at least 6-8". I have always enjoyed the beauty of a storm when the tree's are lined and the ground is covered in a fresh blanket of snow. When the sun shines on the snow it is a glistening beauty reminding me of tiny diamonds.
I think this is the last of the snow for the year. Here in Illinois, if I'm not mistaken it has been a record for snow fall. In years past, I do not recall having this much snow.
I love living in Illinois, enjoying the change of every season. I can't imagine a Winter without snow, a Spring without rain and the blooming of flowers, a Summer without the warmth of the sun, and the Fall without the color change.
Love life and embrace change!

Spring In Illinois

This is Spring in Illinois. Although, yesterday was the first day of Spring and was a beautiful sunny day with temperatures in the 40's, this is what Mother Nature can do. This picture is outside my home office window. We are expected to get 6-10 inches of snow with the possibility of more because we live near the Wisconsin border.
They say that a new season brings upon change - well, if this isn't proof! Drastic change in weather!
Have a great Easter weekend.

1 Year Anniversary As An Indie Beauty Member

Today marks the day of my 1 year anniversary as being an Indie Beauty Network member. A decision that I am completely satisfied with and grateful for joining.
When I first started Gwendolyn's Gate back in January of 2007 I wasn't sure where the company would go and even if I wanted to devote myself full time as a business owner. Basically, turning my hobby and passion into a business. After a few months of formulating and reformulating product, designing and redesigning packaging and finally coming up with something beautiful and beneficial I decided to take that "Leap of Faith" and become a full time professional business owner. In doing so I applied for all the proper credentials through the state and county. But, one thing kept lurking in the back of my mind "Product Liability Insurance". I began my research online and discovered the Indie Beauty Network. I read all the necessary info and joined on March 19, 2007. Although, in March I was legal my product did not hit the market until June of 2007. I still needed time for testing and researching the market.
During this time I felt comfortable knowing I had PLI and never really was involved in the network until September of 2007. Well, did I waste time. The information, advice, and stories of other members is very uplifting and inspirational. In the past year I have learned so much and because of the wonderful opportunities of being an Indie member I have renewed my membership today. Kudos to Donna Maria for what she brings to being an Indie member. And Thank You for helping me be more successful!
Click on the heading above for more info on the Indie Beauty Network!

Lavender - Healing Recipes

Lavender, is another aloe vera of the plant world. A healing agent with skin conditions and as an aromatic delight.
Lavender has many uses as a stand alone ingredient or when combined with others. Just the smell of Lavender alone is so relaxing yet uplifting. Lavender is also a great plant to help keep those pesty mosquito's away!
Here are a few recipes I have discovered to help alleviate certain ailments. The blends are listed by the most to the least amount of essential oils. When applied to the skin dilute with either water or a base ingredient. Headache: lavender, peppermint, and rosemary. Use as an inhalant, apply to area(s) of discomfort, and may be added to a bath. Stress Relief: lavender, geranium, bergamot, and grapefruit. Use as an inhalant and may be added to a bath. Depression: lavender, ylang ylang, and clary sage. Use as an inhalant and may be added to a bath. Relaxing: lavender, cedarwood, neroli, and ylang ylang. Use as an inhalant and may be added to a bath.
This is one of the best recipes when it comes to healing minor abrasions and assisting in clearing up acne. This must be diluted with either water or other ingredients - do not apply directly to the skin. Skin Healing: lavender, bergamot, and eucalyptus. Apply diluted directly on area needed. This blend may be added to lotions, soap, body oils, and water. The results will be amazing.
Please note that the above recipes are not intended to treat conditions. Seek medical advice.
Have fun blending!

Aromatherapy and You!

Some of us may think that Aromatherapy has been around for a hundred years or more. But, it dates back 6000 years and has Biblical references. When I first started to study and research Aromatherapy I decided to look in the bible and there it was. There were many references to plant essences such as olive oil, frankincense and myrrh - which were great commodities at the time traded among many countries.
We can thank Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, a French Chemist who brought this science into the mainstream in the 1920's and Jean Valnet who continued the work of Gattefosse. In an accident where Rene burned his arm, he placed it in a vat of lavender (the only cooling agent in his lab) to soothe the burn. Immediately he noticed a remarkable pain relief, quick healing and no scarring. After the accident in the perfume lab Rene then continued to study the healing properties of essential oils.
In the 20th century Aromatherapy became very popular in the United States and has remained in the mainstream. The art and science of Aromatherapy is now practiced extensively not only in alternative medicine but also in traditional medicine. The essential oils are used in many applications from the aromatic affects to topical healing. They are used alone, diluted or blended with other ingredients.
A beautiful healing science using God's natural resources!

Happy St. Patrick's Day

Today is the day when everyone is Irish!
Did you know that St.Patrick was once a pagan? But, he is one of Christianity's most popular saints and is known for driving the snakes out of Ireland.
In 1737, the holiday first became publicly observed by the Irish immigrants in the United States in Boston. The first St. Patrick's Day parade was held in New York City in 1766.
After almost 300 years, the tradition continues by wearing green, eating Irish food, listening to Celtic music and Irish folklore, and attending parades. What a great day for celebration and in Chicago it is by far the best!
There is an area in downtown Chicago called Division St. where they close down the streets, Policemen are on horseback, and the celebration begins in the wee hours of the morn'. Believe me when I say the streets are filled not only with those who are Irish but the wanna be's too! The celebration spans throughout the Chicago land area with great excitement.
Happy St. Patrick's Day & God Bless!

Thank You For Your Support

I would like to take this opportunity to Thank all of you for attending the Product Launch and Anniversary at Fancy Nancy's Boutique and for making it a success. I hope that you enjoyed yourself as much as I did! It truly was a pleasure to meet you and I look forward to a continuing relationship. Please remember that Gwendolyn's Gate "Chrysalis" skin care is now available at Fancy Nancy's Boutique. Nancy will be pleased to assist you with your skin care needs. Also, if you have any questions you may contact me through my web site at http://www.gwendolyns-gate.com/ or email gwendolynsgate@comcast.net. I am always available to assist you.
Pictured on the left is Nancy, owner of Fancy Nancy's Boutique and myself Wendy, owner of Gwendolyn's Gate. This photo was taken on the second day of the event with all the excitement still in the air. We both had so much fun assisting with your fashion and skin care needs. What woman doesn't love to look and feel good from their skin to their clothes? Since your response to this event was so overwhelming, we have decided to continue to have more events at the boutique. One event that is presently in the planning stage is a pamper night. You will be invited to participate in a facial and manicure just for fun - a Ladies Night Out!
Stayed tuned for more details to come!

Meet Rascal & Melmo

This is Rascal and Melmo - they are brothers and love to cuddle. 2 of our many cats that keep us happy. Especially when there is the 8:00pm Indy 500 in our house. You would think a herd of elephants were coming through!

Product Launch 1 Week Away - Enter to Win Accommodations in Ka'anapali Beach, Maui, Hawaii

The launch is near! March 14th & 15th and we hope to see you there.
The new luxurious product will be available along with the 3 Simple Steps To A Youthful Beautiful You!
Remember, simply by attending the event you will have an opportunity to win the beautiful accommodations in Ka'anpala Beach, Maui, Hawaii!
Here is the location: Fancy Nancy's Boutique, 117 W Slade St., Palatine, IL 847-202-9370.
Come celebrate the 1 year anniversary of the boutique and the product launch of Gwendolyn's Gate skin care - "Chrysalis"-It's All About Transformation!
We look forward to seeing you there!
Click on the above heading to be directed to Fancy Nancy's blog - see what else is happening at the Boutique for Spring!

New Products Have Arrived

Here we are folks. 1st. Photo is the Body Set: Body Gloss to gently exfoliate and Body Cream to deeply moisturize. Your skin will feel silky smooth. 2nd Photo is the Hand Polish Set to gently exfoliate your skin removing dead skin cells to allow the special formulated Hand & Foot Moisturizer to deeply penetrate your skin to moisten and help reduce age spots. Spa gloves are included to help retain and lock in moisture. Photo 3 is the Peppermint Foot Scrub Set to exfoliate your feet clear dry skin and assist in removing calluses. Included is our Hand & Foot moisturizer to deeply moisturize improving your skins texture. Spa socks are also included with this set to help retain and lock in moisture.
I am sure you all will be happy with these beautiful sets. Sure to please both the body and mind!
Further information will be published on my web site within the next couple of days!

Time Is Money

When starting a business and trying to be as economical as possible in certain areas we could end up costing ourselves more money than realized. Remember Time Is Money! In beginning my business I designed and printed my own labels thinking that this would save me money. In all, it cost me a lot of time, not to mention the cost of ink for printers. The design took long enough then the printing and cutting of the labels.
Just recently, with the addition of new product, I decided to outsource the labels. Well, I can't tell you the time it has saved allowing me to focus on other things. Especially with the launch coming up!
The cost of printing labels is not that expensive. Do most of the work yourself such as design and laying out on the sheet size. All you have to do is send to the printer via email in pdf format and you will be amazed at how much time will be saved. Therefore saving you money.
Here is a printer you should try - Artistry in Printing http://artistryinprinting.blogspot.com/ or click on the heading above to be directed to their blog!

Ka'anapli Beach, Maui - Enter To Win!

The word is out! On March 14th & 15th 2008 you are eligible to win accommodations on the world's most beautiful and exotic beach - Ka'anapali Beach - Maui. Fancy Nancy's Boutique will be celebrating the 1 year anniversary and launching Gwendolyn's Gate "Chrysalis" skin care line on the above dates. As part of this wonderful event Nancy is offering those who attend a chance to win 1 week accommodations in Ka'anapali Beach, Maui. Just walk in the door on the celebration dates. Furter details will be available at the celebration.
We look forward to seeing you all there. Click on the heading above to be directed to Fancy Nancy's Blog.

Easier Days Ahead

The first quarter of the new year has been one with amazing results. In setting my goals - a business plan for 2008 has been met with determination. In doing so, I can only see Easier Days Ahead. Of course, I will still have to work hard, but, the recognition of Gwendolyn's Gate has been moving forward.
This is Rascal - one of my cats. Believe me I say his name suits him perfectly! He is such a Rascal and into everything. But, he is also very demanding of love.
Soon I will be able to relax like he does!

Gwendolyn's Gate & eBay

In the past 6 months Gwendolyn's Gate has gone through many changes. The changes include redesigning the labels, changing some of the packaging and introducing new product. To help reduce clutter and make room for the new I have been selling items on eBay. Such as old packaging, discontinued items, and other craft items I no longer use - all at a great discount.
Since joining eBay I have increased my status and now have a link on my blog which will direct you to eBay and the items I sell. You will see this where it says, "See What Wendy Has To Sell On eBay! Just click on the icon and you will be directed to my page of items. Take a look - you might find something you need!

Product Launch Date - March 14th & 15th 2008

Well, the time has come. The date is set for the New Product Launch! Date: Friday, March 14th 10 am - 9 pm & Saturday, March 15th - 10 am - 5 pm
Location: Fancy Nancy's Boutique, 117 W. Slade St, Palatine, Illinois 847-202-9370.
At the time of the launch, Fancy Nancy is also celebrating the 1 year anniversary of her Boutique. This truly is going to be exciting. During this celebration Fancy Nancy will be offering an unbelievable opportunity for you to stroll on the most beautiful and exotic beach in the world!
Wine and tastey delights will be served.
Stay tuned to my blog or click on the heading above to be directed to Fancy Nancy's Boutique Blog!
I look forward to seeing you all there. I am so excited right now I could jump out of my skin!!

Sad But Happy-Product Launch Due In March

I thought I gave myself enough lead time. But, I did not. I am sad to say that there is still a delay. Unfortunately, the launch will not be until mid March. On the other hand it will be absolutely wonderful - all i's will be dotted and t's will be crossed. There is no room for a mistake now! As they say, "Rome Was Not Built In A Day"!
Thanks for being patient and I look forward to seeing you soon!

In Response To Forward This Email & See What Happens

A friend of mine, Mary, had sent this to me. Well, if this doesn't sum it up. I really got a kick out of it. Just thought I would share it with you.

Having Faith When Met With Challenges

They say that Love will keep you strong but Faith is what gives you strength. Combine the 2 and the possibilities are endless. I say this, because recently myself and close family have been met with many challenges since the end of 2007. Between health and personal issues, and other unforeseen circumstances our challenges were many. Throughout this time I remained positive and kept my Faith that in time all will be well. Of course wondering when. There were times, I felt as if we were being tested with all the challenges we faced and kept thinking as the old saying goes, "God Never Gives You More Than You Can Handle". With that in mind, I still Prayed every morning and night Thanking the Lord for every new day and giving us the strength to get through our time of need. Within the past week I could see a positive change in our lives and now we are getting back to where we need to be. I am grateful for my Faith - without it I could not have gone through the past few months with the ease and calm as I did. Even though our times of struggle are beginning to diminish I still Pray and Thank the Lord everyday! Have Faith - it will give you Strength!

Web Site Under New Additions

Please note with the implementation of new products the web site is also undergoing new additions. Be patient please and within the next couple of weeks all will be complete.
Thank You again for your time and support!

Menopause & Underactive Thyroid-What "Chrysalis" Can Do For You!

Recently, it has come to my attention through testimonials that "Chrysalis" skin care has alleviated a problematic symptom of both Menopause and Underactive Thyroid - severe dry skin. Please read below the testimonials I have received in regards to this issue:
I am 53 years old and have very dry skin. It has been particularly dry with the onset of menopause. The harsh winter weather has contributed to dry patches on my elbows, hands and feet, After using your body butter, and hand and foot cream, I have noticed that the patches went away. I am also a fan of the facial butter which has really protected my face from windburn and overheating in my office setting. Sincerely, Pam H., Lindenhurst, Illinois
Since going through Menopause, I also developed an Underactive Thyroid which hit me with a double whammy when it comes to my skin. Throughout the years my skin has been extremely dry and I found myself moisturizing a few times a day. I then tried Gwendolyn's Gate "Chrysalis" Skin Care and I Love It! The body butter has helped my skin tremendoulsy. Although, it goes on greasy - it absorbs quickly without the greasy feel. The Gentel Exfoliates takes the dead skin cells off and is as gentle as labeled. As my dermatologist said, "As we get older and our skin becomes thinner we should not use any harsh materials". The French Green Clay hmmm I Love it - I really do. Your skin looks refreshed, healthy and radiant. I use it as often as I can. The only draw back is that it can be messy when using. The facial butter this is amazing. Again, this goes on greasy but absorbs into your skin without the greasy look. It moisturizes beautifully. The body cream is just as good as the body butter - the moisturizing qualities are wonderful. I own a womans boutique and face the public every day and feel that it is important to look and feel your best. Since using "Chrysalis" this has given me more confidence in how I look and feel. Now I am going to carry Wendy's line. I am introducing her product in late March. Sincerely, Nancy Gust, Owner, Fancy Nancy's Boutique, Palatine, Illinois.