Television personality and AZfoothills.com columnist Nadine Toren is scouring the area, finding savvy Valley features, bringing readers “on the scene.” Every day she’ll introduce you to celebrities, athletes, and give you an inside look into local events and hot spots. She'll touch on topical issues, and keep AZ fans posted on all the big talkers around town.
Valley vixens are getting well-deserved credit in an inspirational summer read. Meet the Phoenix author behind the savvy book.
126. That's how many Valley vixens are featured in a new book about AZ's greatest female entrepreneurs. The youngest creative mind is Isabella Weems, a 14-year old who founded Origami Owl...and the women range all the way to 60+. It's an inspiring read about girl power--success stories courtesy of our area's A-list gals.
“You’ll meet the most creative, interesting and gutsy proprietors throughout our region,” said Shawna Blankenhorn, Valley author and entrepreneur.
Shawna Blankenhorn is the Litchfield Park lady who compiled the book launching July 20th, 2011. The 30-something single (and looking!) woman runs CRAVE Phoenix, a hot hub promoting female business owners.
“We celebrate Valley women,” said Blankenhorn.
A couple years ago, Blankenhorn ditched the Seattle rain for the Valley sun, starting a fresh beginning. In an effort to immerse herself in the community, she sought out girls-only networking groups, but found a shortage of options. That's when she contacted the national CRAVE creator, who helped Blankenhorn launch a Phoenix-based CRAVE location solely for feminine fun and success.
"We host chats, symposiums, and other fabulous parties for savvy entreprennesses. It's a one stop shop connecting smart, ambitious women with one another, allowing them to better promote their business."
Blankenhorn was so compelled with our local girls, she planted herself in front of the computer for months documenting these women's ventures. In the book, she showcases a variety of entrepreneurs; some, local celebs; and others, just getting the ball rolling.
Take Sharon Cochran, for example. She's the mastermind behind Rock N Couture, boasting her signature burlap hand bags, clutches, cuffs, and more. The former real estate agent took the entrepreneurial plunge eager to pursue her dream as a fashion designer.
You’ll also meet Lisa Kasanicky, creator of Arizona Spa Girls. She took her favorite past-time to the web in 2002. Kasanicky’s savvy site gives girlfriend-to-girlfriend reviews of statewide salons and spas.
Jodie Heisner is another lovely lady being featured in Blankenhorn’s CRAVE book. The former ABC-15 Phoenix alum left the broadcast biz to spend more time with her children, but now runs Bottomline Media Coaching, a company helping businesses create an ideal media image.
And one of favorite woman-hear-me-roar women, Sarah “Bodi” Lateiner. She’s a master mechanic who opened her Phoenix female-run full service auto repair shop, 180 Degrees Automotive. She also teaches girls-only car care classes.
“Each entreprenness was asked the same 10 or so questions. They get an individual 2-page spread where you’ll learn of their inspiration and how they executed their success.”
Many of the stories are quite touching. Christie Simmons suffered a brain tumor, causing a great deal of weight gain. That inspired the Valley woman to start Express MiE Fitness & Beauty, a specialized exercise facility offering Zumba, Pole Dancing, and a number of boot-camps. Her goal--offering an expressive and fun outlet for women to work out.
“The book is a perfect compilation of compelling stories.”
And it’s bound to reignite your entrepreneurial flame and get those creative juices flowing.
Cheers to the fabulous women making the Valley of Sun shine extra bright.
To order Blankenhorn’s book, visit: www.thecravecompany.com/phoenix
www.facebook.com/onthescenewithnadine
