Featured Business: 151 On The Water

151 On The Water

151 Water Street 

(at Summit and Jefferson)

www.151onthewater.com

If you're looking for a great meal, and night out with friends 151 On The Water is the place for you!

The former Murphy's has been revived to show the best in Jazz, Blues and local musicians.  

Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday, 151 On The Water  offers a casual lunch and fine dining menu that owner Mike Scott says "I'd put our signature dish up against any other restaurant in town."

I've been in several times, and each meal has been amazing.  The menu has something for everyone.  There is a $5.99 lunch special, as well as dinner specials.  And very reasonably priced!  While out to dinner with friends, we ordered 2 appetizers, 4 drinks, 1 soda and 4 meals, and spent less than $125 (not including tip).

I've tried something new every time that I've been in, but my lunch time favorite is the Chicken Philly, and dinner would have to be the Chicken Piccata. 

Reuben w/ Chips

Chicken Philly w/ Chips

Not only is there great food, but there is great music 5 nights a week.  You can come in for Jazz, Blues, Open Mic Night and the musical talents of great local artists.  You will also be able to hear live music a couple days a week during the lunch hours.

The bar is always coming up with new and creative drinks for any taste.  Recently, "Candy Cocktails" have been a big hit - including Cotton Candy and Rock Candy martinis.  Not to mention the Strawberry Champagne Martini, or any of you other favorite beverages.

Rock Candy Martini

One of the benefits to the local musical community is that now there is another venue to perform at.  But there is an in-house sound system.  There is no need for them to bring in all their own speakers or sound board - it's all provided for you.  And for the audience, there's not a bad seat in the house!  The music is played at a level that is easily heard, no matter where you are sitting.  But it's also not so loud that you can't have a conversation with the person sitting next to you.

If you are looking for a place to host a party or dinner, 151 On The Water can accommodate you.  Even bringing in live music for your event.  

The staff at 151 On The Water is great - all very kind and there to help you with anything.  And the owner is there, greeting everyone and making conversation.  Mike wants to make sure you're having a good time, that the food is good, and you're enjoying the music. 

Make plans to stop into 151 On The Water soon!

Featured Business: My Mary Kay Consultant Nicole!

Nicole Beat

Independent Mary Kay Sales Director

www.marykay.com/nicolemariel

www.nicolelloyd.net

567.455.6828

I am not a girlie girl.  I am not into what is hot and now in fashion.  I'm not up on the latest hair and make up trends.  It's just not me.  I'm very conscious about my skin.  And that's where Nicole comes in.

As a teen, I'd have the occasional break out (usually on my chin around that time of the month), but I generally had very nice skin.  Then when I was 21 and pregnant with my first child, it caught up to me.

I've tried just about every product under the sun - and nothing has seemed to work.  I'd begun using the Mary Kay Timewise products, and I really liked them.  My little frown/laugh lines diminished, my completion looked brighter, but I still had the adult acne.

My problem was that these products were too harsh on my skin.  I tried one product (I won't name it, but you've heard of it) that literally burned my face after 3 uses.   I did see a dermatologist after that - and not even their prescription strength products worked... I thought I was doomed.

But wait!  Nicole comes back from a Mary Kay conference with a brand new sensitive skin collection: Botanical Effects.  I set up an appointment with her and she introduced me to the new line.  We started with the dry skin set - in the winter I'm alway super dry.  She let me try it there, and she even let me take it home for a few days to really see the effects on my skin. (Does the department store do that?)



I loved the cleanser - very gentle.  But the moisturizer was a bit thick for my liking.  I told Nicole and she said "Not a problem, let's switch your lotion to 'normal'."  And it's working great for me.

After she switched my lotion, she also gave me the mask and refresher spray.  The mask can actually be used as a scrub or mask - which I loved.  The refresher is really nice as well, not a burning toner like I was use to.  If you have sensitive skin - this product is definitely for you!



Now - cosmetics!

Deluxe Compact

I'd never really worn make-up.  I'd buy it for a special occasion, never wear it again.  But now that I'm in a professional setting, I can't look like a 14 year old.

Nicole has helped me find the right colors for me, taught me how to apply them (I had no idea how many looks you could get from just 3 eye shadow colors).  It's also extremely important to have the right tools, and know how to take care of them (yes, your dirty brushes can actually make your skin have bad reactions, and could even make you sick).

There are products for everyone - even guys!  I got the High Intensity Cologne for my husband - I love it!

What I really like about Nicole is her desire to really help other women feel as beautiful as they are.  It's not about covering your face up with 4 inches of make up and portraying something you're not.  It's about accenting the natural beauty that you are.  She'll keep you up to date on new products.  And if you give her your husband/boyfriend's contact info and your special dates (birthday, anniversary, etc.), she can even send them reminders and gift hints based on your wish lists or previous purchased.  She can even help with the gift wrapping.  Seriously guys - win/win!

So if you've never tried Mary Kay before, I encourage you to contact Nicole and try it now.  Not only are the products amazing and very reasonably priced; but you will gain a new friend.

Featured Business: Beauty Call By Liz

Beauty Call By Liz

Mobile Spray Tanning

http://www.beautycallbyliz.com/

 (419) 290-0720

In the dull winter, sometimes we all need a quick pick me up.  Something to remind us of warmer days, something to brighten our smiles.

Sometimes we have that special occasion, and even if we have the perfect outfit, something's missing.

A spray tan may be what you need!

Have you tried a spray tan before, and didn't like the results?  All spray tanning products are not created alike.  The products used by Beauty Call By Liz are made with all natural and organic ingredients.  It allows you to have the look of being out in the sun all the time, without the harmful effects of the UV rays.

What I like about Beauty Call By Liz is that she came to me.  I didn't have to get in my car, drive somewhere, wait for my turn and then be pushed out the door.  I'm a busy working mom - I rarely have time for myself (and have to schedule it weeks in advance!).  

She arrived at my house and set up the mobile spray tent, hooked up her airbrush and we were ready to go.  The process took maybe 20 minutes.

For me, she used the lightest level - as I'm naturally very pale.  As she 'warned' me, the color deepened quite a bit throughout the day.  But after I showered the next morning, it toned down quite a bit, something a bit more natural to my natural color.  

Besides the convince of her coming to you, her prices are very reasonable.  Guys, spray tanning gift certificates are a great gift for your lady!

If you're getting married, your photographer will appreciate the even skin tone and color provided by a spray tan.  Make plans to start tanning AT LEAST a month before your wedding, to find the right tone.  A great thing about Beauty Call By Liz is that she has partnered with Alt B, and the services in this group can also help you prepare for your special day.

If you are interested in spray tanning, check out http://www.beautycallbyliz.com/ and schedule your appointment.  Be sure to check out the Tanning Tips before Liz arrives, so that she is able to give you the best tan possible.  And be sure to ask her about her great products (I love the Cocoa butter lotion!)

Check out Beauty Call By Liz - and make today beautiful! 

My Morning With Tim & Jeff

Tim and Jeff In The Morning

I'd consider Star 105.5 to be one of my favorite radio stations, has been for as long as I can remember.  Great selection of music, I'm comfortable playing it around my kids (there are a few songs I'll turn it down for [never off, I promise]... but that's just my personal preference).

My husband usually would claim the radio before me in the morning - usually podcasts on his iPod.  I don't remember exactly when I regained control of the remote, so to speak.  I remember turning it on, and just cracking up over something they were discussing.  And as I continued listening, I remember being very thankful that they topics of conversation were not of content that I'd have to turn the radio off when my kids were in the room

Over the summer I was incredibly impressed by the City of the Week outings they were hosting.  Working with small businesses, it's important to me to see the 'hidden gems' that drive our communities highlighted.  I looked forward to the pictures each week, and hearing the stories of many businesses that I never knew existed.

Along the same line, "Free Plug Friday" has been a joy to participate it.  Several of my clients have had events over the last few months, and there's nothing like getting a text from a client saying "OMG! We were on the radio."  (Thanks again guys!)  I love hearing small businesses, and local events put on the forefront.  Sometimes it seems that we don't know about these until it's too late.

I remember "Liking" their Facebook page, that first day I heard them.  As social media is my field of expertise - these guys are rawking it out!  When I look at other 'local celebrity' profiles, I don't see nearly the interaction that these guys get.  And it's not just one sided - they are actually conversing with their listeners throughout the day via Facebook or Twitter.  And the conversations are always interesting - there's nothing like when your page gets hijacked and the conversation lasts for days!

I was able to finally meet the guys after months of social networking interactions.  I totally thought they were joking when they invited me to the studio, but there I was.  Super cool, super nice guys.  I spend so much time promoting my clients, that it was actually weird to be talking about myself and my business.  And again there's nothing like getting a text from a friend "Um, was that you on the radio?".

We sat and chatted for about 20 minutes off air, and honestly, these guys are awesome.  

If you aren't already listening to Tim and Jeff In The Morning - you should be!  And if you are, join in on the conversation!  Like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter (@r8dioTim and @JeffNtheMorning).

*****

It was a sad day on March 12th when they announced that they were leaving the Toledo area.  I'm going to miss listening to you every day - the listeners of 105.7 in Fayetteville, AR are very lucky (thank goodness for internet radio!)

Thanks for all you've done for Toledo guys, on the air and off!

Featured Business: NewTrition

NewTrition

6915 W. Central Ave

Toledo OH 43617

419-843-4200

I was originally invited to visit NewTrition after I attended a networking meeting.  I was still young in business and knew nothing of networking, but at that night at the NETT at the Oliver House, I met some people who today I can call close friends.

Melonie had invited me to have a one-to-one at NewTrition, and suggested I try the Blueberry Muffin shake.  OMG it was amazing.  I began stopping in on a regular basis, I enjoyed the comfortable atmosphere and good company.  Most days, if you want to find me, that's where I'll be.

NewTrition offers Herbalife products, and uses the variety of products to make dozens of shakes/smoothies to meet your tastes and dietary needs.  The combo includes a shot of mango/aloe water (trust me - it sounds weird, but it is delicious), a 8oz cup of green tea (plain, peach, lemon or raspberry)

Many people who first stop in to the 'club' (as it is know, all of the regulars are known as 'members') assume that it is all about weight loss.  While that is a component to the Herbalife product line, the message is more about becoming healthy. Recently, I was diagnosed with a gluten intolerance.  When I began feeling run down and sick at the end of the summer, Dawn sat down with me, asked me about my daily eating habits and activities.  My doctor didn't even do that with me after I was diagnosed.  I began stopping in everyday, and I felt my energy levels increase within a few weeks.

The weight loss aspect is also a large part of the business.  Weight loss challenges are offered several times every year, lasting three months at a time.  During these challenges, you get the group support that is proven in any weight loss program. But you also receive information that will help you along in your daily life.  Participants are not required to purchase the Herbalife products, but most of them find themselves getting shakes at NewTrition everyday.

One of the best services offered at NewTrition is something that most adults need, but don't know it.  The metabolism scans will help you identify the right amount of dietary needs your body requires for gaining, losing, or maintaining your weight.

As a young mom, my friends and I have often had discussions as to the best way to lose the last few pounds - and the information I learned from my metabolism scan really helped me.  I eat a mostly vegetarian diet, and after the body scan I discovered I was not getting enough protein.  I need between 75 and 100 grams of protein, and I was maybe getting 30-50 each day.  When I began adding the shakes into my daily meal plan, I became a bit leaner (and if I do say so looked AMAZING at my 10 year reunion after 1 month on the 'shake plan').

The shakes have also helped my son.  Steven is almost 4, and about the size of a 2 year old.  He was born 6 weeks premature, and we've had issues with his growth.  I bring him in with me after I pick him up from preschool a few days a week (he even has a special cup).  He's finally gaining weight, and slowly is starting to grow a few inches.  And he's healthy - when his sisters have been bringing home colds and flu's - he's not been sick once this year.  Which is even more amazing, because since he was 9 months old, he'd develop bronchitis at least twice in the colder months and needed breathing treatments 3 or 4 times a day.

If you're in Sylvania/Sylvania Township durning the day, between 8a and 3p, I encourage you; stop in for the healthiest breakfast or lunch that you can get.  

On Feb 16, Dawn S. has stepped down as owner of New-Trition.  

We all wish her well and will miss her.  

The club will now be maintained by Sue B. 

Highlighting Local Businesses

If you are a small business owner and would like to grow your reach by being featured in local blogs - here's your opportunity.

Business reviews can assist in your search engine optimization, can reach out to new individuals who can become fans/followers/customers, and can educate your current customers about things that they maybe forgot that you do.

I'd be honored to write something for your business!  My goal for the next year is to feature at least one business per week.  

Your review will be featured on:

sociablycindy.com

sociablycindy.blogspot.com

sociablycindy.wordpress.com/

tumblr.com/blog/sociablycindy

@Sociably Cindy

Facebook.com/sociablycindy

Would you like to be one of them?

Fees to be featured are reasonable - all I ask is that I'm able to experience your service or products for myself.
Email Cindy@SociablyCindy.com for details - special gifts for the first 10 who respond.

Featured Business: Amiche Capelli Salon of Style

Amiche Capelli Salon Of Style

124 N. Summit St. Ste 140
Toledo, OH 43604
419-725-2822 

I first met Jen at the NETT Event at the Oliver House.  I was out of my element, still new to the networking scene.  Jen found me, and we became instant friends.  At our first meeting, to talk business, we found we had several mutual friends - small world here in Toledo, Oh. 

Until a few years ago, I'd never had a 'hair stylist'.  I'd never had need for one.  If I needed a trim, I'd go to one of those quick in&out hair places.  When my dad got sick a few years ago, I made the decision to donate my hair - 18 inches of it!  I hadn't done much with it after that.  18 months later when the cancer came back, I donated it again.  And surprisingly again, another 18 inches.  

A long haired girl for most of my life, I did not know how to style my hair, how to properly dry my hair - complete novice in the ways of hair styling.  Jen has taught me A LOT! 

  
Did you know, that when you are conditioning your hair, you should wring it out until you can't get any more drops of water from it before you condition?  Your hair is a sponge and can't get the nutrients it needs from the conditioner if it's saturated with water.  

 Also, did you know that the natural oils in your hair are important for healthy hair. You only need to shampoo every-other day. When you're not washing, rinse it. 

When you are at the salon or spa, is your stylist talking with you before your cut, to make sure what you are saying you want is actually what you want, and going to work for you?  Most women can recall a bad haircut experience:  I went in for a trim and ended up loosing 4 inches because it wasn't straight.  

At Amiche Capelli Salon of Style, they pride themselves in taking time for you, educating you in the techniques to use to care for your hair.  A L'Oreal Salon in the Toledo Area, offering INOA color and offering products for every hair type.  Manicures and Pedicures offered include scrubs made in house, customized scents for the season.  Luna Bella scrubs are available for purchase in small and large sizes.  

Follow Amiche Capelli Salon Of Style on Facebook or @Amiche_Capelli on Twitter  for regular hair and skin tricks and tips, style ideas, and encouragement.

Featured Business: Sylvania Area Photography

Sylvania Area Photography

419-318-9301

www.SylvaniaAreaPhotography.com

In 2009, Steve invested in a Cannon 40d, and it's his pride and joy. He uses Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom for post edit work. Steve has spent countless hours studying and editing, learning and perfecting his skills. From this hobby, Sylvania Area Photography was created.

"I started Sylvania Area Photography out of my passion for photography. When I first started doing photography as a hobby I would take portraits of my children. 

I just wanted more options - I don't like the pictures that are cookie cutter images with different faces.

 

I want my pictures to show the people in their element, having fun and being themselves.

I am passionate about my work and I am satisfied only when you are satisfied."

The services include Weddings, Family, Event, Business and High School Seniors. Also offering digital copies and restoration of prints, digital editing, video slideshows, and photo greeting cards.

One of his 'trademark techniques' is muliplicity shots. Using this technique, he is able to put the same person into 1 picture multiple times, create scenes, and (in the case of our family Christmas card) put each person in individually when the kids are not cooperating...

Christmas 2009 - kids added separately 

Another great technique is panoramic. These are multiple shots put into one. These are great for weddings, events and businesses because you can get a 180 degree picture of the room.

It's the desire of Sylvania Area Photography to be there for all your photographic needs, be it family portraits for your holiday cards, weddings, or family reunions and birthday parties. (And we HIGHLY recommend hiring a photographer for these events! At a surprise 30th birthday party, the guest of honor was the photographer, and there are no pictures of the party)

Please consider Sylvania Area Photography for your photographic needs: Creativity is our Ambition!