Showing posts with label Workshops. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Workshops. Show all posts
A selection of creative sessions to help you build your business and brand.

In June I launched The Business Sessions, a set of exclusively designed consulting sessions and weekly classes and I am ever so happy with how the introduction and subsequent sessions have gone. It has not only inspired new and existing clients, but been a very firm confirmation for me of why I LOVE my job. Hosting entrepreneurs in my office and via Skype, open discussion, teaching and guiding them and then seeing them grasp and understand concepts is a beautiful thing to witness.

For July and August the sessions continue and are open to a new group of students. I have simplified the process slightly in order to make it as clear as possible how it all works. 

- Type of Sessions -

One on One: When you need a bit of extra TLC.
Fully focused on your business, process and personal requirements.
Booked on a day and date that suits your individual schedule as opposed to fitting in with the timetable. You learn at a pace that suits you.
These are held in person in Durban or via Skype or Facetime for those who aren't based here.
R1200 for three sessions.

Small Group Classes in Durban: When you want to connect with like-minded business owners.
A group of students (no more than three) with a more general business focus.
You will receive individual assistance too, but the group setting allows for further learning from the experience of fellow students and is a great networking opportunity.
The classes are once a week for three consecutive weeks in a row / see timetable.
 Each week follows on from the previous with a clear plan and homework to keep the momentum. The timetable (scroll down) outlines the dates and times at which the group classes run.
R900 for three sessions.


- Session Info -

As you work through the sessions or classes depending on whether you select one on one or group classes, you will receive practical examples and insight that you can implement within your own life and business. Each session is taught by me, personally, no pre-recorded messages, no videos... the real life person version. It ensures you can ask questions directly and we can tackle your individual requirements. If your schedule doesn't allow for you to attend weekly sessions, there is the option to have one on one mentorship to suit your schedule and pace. 

- You can select from the following -

- Social Media Content Creation - 

Tell your story, grow your brand, showcase your business. 

You can attend either in the group class as per timetable or book these sessions one on one to suit your unique schedule.

Always wondering what to say online, how to say it and when? Then these are the sessions for you.
A focused set of three sessions to guide you through the process of creating and writing purposeful content to market your business and creatively build your brand. On offer are focused steps that you can personally implement and test out to see results in action.

"Meaningful content creation is a personal passion of mine. I'm fortunate to have worked on some large scale projects that yielded great success for locally based businesses, both within the creative and corporate spheres." 

Each set of sessions includes a selection of tools to get you inspired, time for Q&A and measurable steps and actions to implement from day one. Not sure if this is the course for you - let's chat.

- Developing a Comprehensive Brand Experience -

You can attend either in the group class as per timetable or book these sessions one on one to suit your unique schedule.

Don't you love that feeling in your heart when you leave your favourite shop, with a prettily wrapped parcel after having received outstanding service? It's time to create that "happy feeling" for your very own customers.

"Our brands have the opportunity to change people's lives in a beautiful, positive and happy way. Who wouldn't want to share that valuable type of sincere joy through their business?"

A focused set of three sessions to guide you through the process of creating your own comprehensive brand experience. Add value to your customers through an authentic and connected offering and ensure it lines up with the mission of your brand.

Each set of sessions includes a selection of tools to get you inspired, time for Q&A and measurable steps and actions to implement from day one.

- Planning for Creative Business -

Developing a plan that suits your business and lifestyle.

You can attend either in the group class as per timetable or book these sessions one on one to suit your unique schedule.

We often hear how consistency is key both online and in achieving our goals. But, first you need to know what you are creating consistency towards. It's time to shape a plan that creates that direction for both your life and business. 
A focused set of three sessions to guide you through the process of understanding what you want to become known for within your industry and creating a plan around it that respects your lifestyle and values. We tackle some of the tough elements like setting boundaries, thinking about the future and what will essentially make you a happier and therefore more successful business owner and all round human.

Each set of sessions includes a selection of tools to get you inspired, time for Q&A and measurable steps and actions to implement from day one.

- Workshop: Style your Brand for Social Media -

Currently Durban Only

Beautiful photos are everywhere we look, but what about your own images that represent your brand? It's easy to use stock imagery, but how about creating and styling a library of images that truly represents your business and in turn creating a brand presence. This half day workshop will take you through the steps to styling your own images that are in line with the vision you are aiming to create. From the practical to the pretty we will work on examples and actionable steps.

"I have lectured on styling at a tertiary level and styled images for a host of local brands with great success for both print and digital. It's time to be inspired, hone your own eye for composition and showcase your brand in style!"

Each workshop includes a selection of tools to get you inspired, time for Q&A and measurable steps and actions to implement immediately.

- Claim your Spot -

Small focused groups, individual attention, direct access to the teacher... these rates are designed to make it affordable for you the business owner. My focus is guidance and adding value. Human to human... good old fashioned communication based on true connection.

One on One: When you need a bit of extra TLC.
Three one on one Sessions: R1200 for all three sessions (R400 each). Included are some lovely items for you to use during the classes to keep you inspired. You and I work one on one so the attention is directly on your business.

.
Small Group Classes in Durban: When you want to connect with like-minded business owners.
Three Group Classes: R900 for all three sessions (R300 each) collectively which includes a host of additional treats and supplies to get you focused. You get direct access to me as I teach the sessions and the groups are limited to only three students.

Creative Business Workshop: August 2015

Last week I hosted one of my Creative Business Workshops to a room full of eager, creative entrepreneurs. The setup and planning is always one of my favourite aspects, which includes selecting brands to work with and choosing giveaway prizes. There is nothing better than spoiling the attendees with a few useful tools to help them along their entrepreneurial journey.


I snapped a few quick photos on the day to share the behind the scenes with you, along with a few of the special details. This time round I worked with m.studio, Bouwer Flowers and Smith's Bakeshop - mainly.

One of the giveaways included a MollieMakes magazine, a creative business consulting session and a copy of Your Business. Look out for my opinion and quotes in the latest August/September issue.

If you would like to see more photos then search for the hash tag #nvdmlearns on Instagram - several of the lovely ladies shared their experience.

I'll announce the next date asap or feel free to email me in the meantime.

The count down is on - this Friday (20 March) I'll be hosting the Creative Buisness Exchange at Decorex in Durban. I'm rather excited!

It is a half-day workshop which is ideal for any business owner in a variety of industries. The topics that will be covered include... planning, social media tips, successful branding and how to approach the press. In addition to the tips - there will also be a discussion with industry insiders. It's set to be an inspiring day. To book tickets - click here. Below is some additional info. Please spread the word - I would love to see you there!

Durban Friday 20th March 09h00 – 12h30 Durban ICC R550 per person
Read more on the Decorex or SA Decor & Design.
For full press release - click here. 

Decorex SA introduces the first ever Creative Business Exchange, a workshop dedicated to building a successful creative design brand, to run alongside Decorex Durban and Cape Town in 2015. The innovative half-day forum, aimed at individuals and small businesses in the interior design, décor, architecture, product and craft sectors, is set to stimulate a creative-thinking environment.

Creative brand visionary, Nadia van der Mescht, who will be facilitating the event, began her career in marketing, but yearned for a career in fashion and accessories, which saw her launch her first business in 2004 creating bespoke accessories for local boutiques. Although her vast experience includes stints at luxury London fashion
house Burberry as well as at local apparel and homeware giant Mr Price Group, she is perhaps best known for her popular lifestyle blog and creative business development consulting.
More recently the titles of stylist, lecturer and décor-magazine writer have been added to her impressive portfolio. Van der Mescht’s true flair lies in guiding creatives and small businesses, her stellar track record demonstrates an enviable ability to inspire, educate and motivate clients, equipping them with the vital tools needed to build their brands and drive their creative businesses forward.

Favourite, Useful & Creative Posts: 2014

Each year goes by faster and faster. 2014 was no different. I think it was a very good year - there were ups and downs, happiness, tears, joy, success, failures and triumphs. I can hardly believe that I wrote more than a hundred posts on this little blog! Wowee! Let's take a look back at some of my favourites.

Here goes...

Photo round-up from the Joburg workshops - I loved having Mariaan of m.studio at my Joburg workshops to capture the creative details.


My 2014 Personal Life Changes - this post is a favourite as it helped me to stay on track. By writing the changes down and sharing them with you I made myself more accountable.

A Check List for Creatives: Is 2014 your Year - A few things to work on before you quit your full-time job. This post is as relevant now as a year ago.

DIY with Skinny laMinx: Getting Crafty with Up in the Air - It was an honour to prepare and write this as a special project for the Skinny laMinx team.

I featured my best friend Sam's wedding - a personal post sharing a few of the details from the day.

Design Indaba Conference 2014: A few simple lessons which are great to reflect back on.

Creative Business Tips: Dealing with Competition. Useful at any stage of your creative business journey.

Lessons via Cath Kidston: Three easy and fun business lessons via Cath Kidston. I love this beautiful and inspirational brand.

Use your Public Holiday Wisely: Three simple things you'll be thankful for later. Free time... be sure to use it.

A busy time... a glimpse at a few of my business and creative adventures.

Cookie Recipe & Label Printable Freebie - my lovely creative assistant Claire, designed this  just for you! It's an easy recipe and the gift element makes it even more fun.

The Etsy Party 2014 was a huge creative success - giveaways, freebies and of course lots of crafting.

Craft Workshop - the first of many! I hosted a small workshop where we wrapped and had fun with loads of washi tape.

I turned thirty and loved every moment of it! I was spoilt and felt very loved.

Brand Spotlight - featuring Zana, a really great and successful local brand.

Tried & Tested: Current Favourites - several goodies that are great to add to your shopping list.

A Few Thoughts via GFWS - business lessons and tips from some of the world's greatest chefs.

Snail Mail Ideas: Wrapping Inspiration - this is a new post featured just last week, but I really like the way it turned out.

Farewell 2014! Here's to an even more creative 2015! Wishing you all the best!

Workshop Fun, Snaps & Details


Last weekend I hosted my last creative business workshop for 2014 - how time does fly when you love your job! I tested out a new venue - Open Plan Studio because as of 1 January 2015 I'll be moving into an office at The Design Factory in the Station Drive Precinct. It made sense to make use of a venue that was in the same building as my new office. Exciting times!

I decided to share a few of the Instagrams from the day as shared by the lovely creatives in attendance. One of my favourite things to do after a workshop is to check the nvdmlearn hash tag and see what people captured on the day. It really gives me a different perspective and seeing the details that others liked also serves as a confirmation of a job well done. 

A new venue meant new challenges which included bringing in some extra help. I worked with Zak & Tonic a whole year ago on their blog. I've loved following their business growth this year so the talented duo were an obvious option to take care of lunch. They did me proud and delivered a delightfully delicious meal. Sean from Open Plan Studio was another great help and of course Claire, my amazingly helpful assistant was on call to help make the day just right. My darling mom played florist with her natural flair and so the day was rounded off with some floral pretties. I'm one lucky girl with all the help I get.

I have several new workshops planned for 2015 so keep an eye out for the updated details.

Thanks to the attendees who make all the work so worthwhile and thanks for sharing these snaps!
rooi_rok_bokkie
joelenesylvester
ciskiahanekom
Check out the following hash tag on Instagram for more pics - #nvdmlearn or click here to see more updates on Twitter from past workshops.

Also pictured are a few lovely items from m.studio and take a look at the 'Creativity with Integrity' poster that Fathima created for me. I used a sequin hanger from Lovilee to  display it.
I'm excited to launch my latest Intermediate Creative Business Workshop date! This will be the last business workshop for 2014, but fear not there will be more dates in 2015 including some other exciting news!

TO BOOK: Click here to go to Hello Pretty booking site or email me if you prefer.
DATE: 29th November 2014
VENUE: Open Plan Studio - 39 Station Drive, Durban.
FULL DAY COURSE: 9am - 5pm
COST: R950
Space is very limited so don't delay.

I have worked with Hello Pretty to set-up an online shop through which you can buy your ticket for the workshop. When booking via the site - ensure you double check the date and details. The aim is to make the process easy and simple for you. I can highly recommend the site and the process (payment is safe), but if you prefer you can email me to book. 

Details:
The workshops are aimed at creative business owners in a variety of fields from photography and design to crafters or even bloggers. If you have your own business (or want to start your own) and want to learn and prosper, then the workshops are ideal for you. The topics range from social media to creative marketing ideas and there are two types of workshops – one for beginners and one for intermediates. The Beginner Workshops is ideal for business owners who would like to learn the basics. The Intermediate Workshops are for those who are in the industry and on the right track, but would perhaps like step it up a notch.

The workshops started in Durban with sold out dates and an amazing array of creatives joining in and last year I added Joburg into the mix as well as Cape Town in 2014. All the past attendees have given wonderful reviews. Creatives who attend can look forward to a day of learning with practical examples and case studies of successful businesses. The day is the ideal platform for networking within a creative environment. All the courses include a delicious lunch, snacks, a really lovely goodie bag and a host of giveaways from wonderful brands.

How do I know I'm intermediate? 
You already have a blog or understanding of social media. You enjoy being online and want to grow your business even further.

The Facts:
This workshop is aimed at creatives who are ready to expand, grow their business and blog readership. You would like to get an even better understanding of the various tools available to you.

What does your hard earned money get you?

Creative Goal Setting:  How to breakdown and achieve your personal and business goals.

Creative Branding:  Tying your brand and business together as one. We cover the essentials of what creates a good brand.

Blogging Tips:  Planning, scheduling and basic creative tips for putting posts together.

Social Media Tips:  We will focus on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and how these can work towards generating blog readers and in turn more sales and opportunities.

Creative Marketing Ideas:  Fun, cost effective ways to generate interest in your business or blog.

How to Approach the Press:  Want to have your products or blog featured in magazines? I will give you the tips you need, from what to say to how you to say it.

Question and Answer Session:  A time for you to chat to me about your problems, new ideas or even plans for your business.

In addition you will receive snacks, an amazing lunch, the chance to mingle and make new friends as well as network. A goodie bag bursting with wonderful surprises will also be waiting for you!

How to sign up: 
Book your ticket via my Hello Pretty shop.

Or...

Email me (hello@nadiavdmescht.co.za) or call me (072 093 7730) with your full name, contact number and request to book your spot. I will send you an invoice and all the relevant booking details - payment is due once invoice is received.
As you know I went to Cape Town in August to host my Creative Business Workshops. One of the lovely workshop attendees (Nicole Henriques) kindly captured  the day and the details. It was a really wonderful and successful full day workshop. Meeting different CT creatives was also great and hearing their thoughts and challenges added great insight into their journeys as business owners. I really enjoyed hosting the workshop and got to work with incredible brands to make the day even more amazing!

The venue - Dear Me in Longmarket Street was absolutely perfect and the service I received was truly great. They took care of all the small details and of course provided delicious food! Rumbi was the lady in charge and I can't thank her enough for her input.

Each attendee got heaps of goodies, including a Consol Grip & Go bottle, a Zana Small Pouch, a Typo pen, a notebook from yours truly, a card from Seven Swans, a custom created postcard from Terrapin & Toad, a set of file labels from Design-A-File, stationery from mstudio, tea & tags from Toast, a lovely card from bvbblegvm. Wow... what a list! I'm so grateful to all these wonderful and super cool brands!

There were also several delightful giveaways from I heart Market, mstudio, Dear Deer, Doeksisters, ladybird likes, Mollie Makes, Son of Burnard, In Good Company and Terrapin & Toad. The attendees really did get spoilt!









Another thanks must go to Neva from Bright & Beautiful. She provided the lovely vases for the flowers. I must also say thanks to my best friend Sam who was a great support throughout. Lots of thanks in this post, but it's necessary. Thanks again to Nicole for these lovely photos!

Check out what some of the lovely ladies in attendance had to say: Lanalou Style / Hello Pretty / Bamboo Blossom / Nicole Henriques One & Two.

Cape Town Creative Business Workshops 2014



TO BOOK: click on workshop below to go to Hello Pretty booking site or email me if you prefer:

I have worked with Hello Pretty to set-up an online shop through which you can buy your ticket for either workshop. When booking via the site - ensure you double check the date and details. The aim is to make the process easy and simple for you. I can highly recommend the site and the process, but if you prefer you can email me to book.

Details:
The workshops are aimed at creative business owners in a variety of fields from photography and design to crafters or even bloggers. If you have your own business and want to learn and prosper, then the workshops are ideal for you. The topics range from social media to creative marketing ideas and there are two types of workshops – one for beginners and one for intermediates. The Beginner Workshops is ideal for business owners who would like to learn the basics. The Intermediate Workshops are for those who are in the industry and on the right track, but would perhaps like step it up a notch.

The workshops started in Durban with sold out dates and an amazing array of creatives joining in and last year I added Joburg into the mix. All the past attendees have given wonderful reviews. Creatives who attend can look forward to a day of learning with practical examples and case studies of successful businesses. The day is the ideal platform for networking within a creative environment. All the courses include a delicious lunch, snacks, a really lovely goodie bag and a host of giveaways from wonderful brands.

How do I know I'm intermediate? 
You already have a blog or understanding of social media. You enjoy being online and want to grow your business even further.

The Facts:
This workshop is aimed at creatives who are ready to expand, grow their business and blog readership. You would like to get an even better understanding of the various tools available to you.

What does your hard earned money get you?

Creative Goal Setting:  How to breakdown and achieve your personal and business goals.

Creative Branding:  Tying your brand and business together as one. We cover the essentials of what creates a good brand.

Blogging Tips:  Planning, scheduling and basic creative tips for putting posts together.

Social Media Tips:  We will focus on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and how these can work towards generating blog readers and in turn more sales and opportunities.

Creative Marketing Ideas:  Fun, cost effective ways to generate interest in your business or blog.

How to Approach the Press:  Want to have your products or blog featured in magazines? I will give you the tips you need, from what to say to how you to say it.

Question and Answer Session:  A time for you to chat to me about your problems, new ideas or even plans for your business.

In addition you will receive snacks, an amazing lunch, the chance to mingle and make new friends as well as network. A goodie bag bursting with wonderful surprises will also be waiting for you!

How to sign up: 
Book your ticket via my Hello Pretty shop.

Or...

Email me (hello@nadiavdmescht.co.za) or call me (072 093 7730) with your full name, contact number and request to book your spot. I will send you an invoice and all the relevant booking details - payment is due once invoice is received.

To see past workshops click here.





Cape Town Creative Business Workshops

As mentioned in last week's update post I'm planning the Cape Town creative business workshops scheduled for mid-August. I am in the process of looking at venues, exact dates and sponsors.







There are two ways to take part:
  • Attend one of the workshops and invest in your creative business.
  • Sponsor either a giveaway or goodie bag items for the workshop as marketing for your business. Services are welcome too for example photography or a florist.

If you are interested in attending - please leave a comment and let me know what you would prefer:
  • Weekend or weekday workshop?
  • Introductory course or intermediate?
  • You can also leave your email address and I will email you the minute the dates and further details are released (you will also receive a booking discount).

If you are interested in sponsoring something then email me with a short intro on what you would like to offer.

Any great venue suggestions will be great too.

I'm really excited to be heading to CT soon! To take a look at past workshop fun - just click here.

Let's Catch-Up

Hello
You might have noticed I have been fairly quiet this week. I needed some time to regroup and get back into the swing of things. I gave myself permission to step back from blogging (sometimes necessary). I wanted to cover a few things and have a little catch up in today's post.

The Etsy Party was great! Thanks so much to everyone who made it possible. I still have a host of 'thank yous' to send out. I'm looking forward to sharing more photos soon, but in the meantime take a look at the Instagrams below.

Up & Coming Events:
I'm excited (and only slightly nervous) to share that I will be in Cape Town in August to run consulting sessions and workshops. I'm busy setting up the dates and will do a post focused on that asap.

Another awesome thing that will be happening during my trip is I will be speaking at the Top Vendor Wedding Awards and sharing tips on creative business via my talk.

My client Fashion Nanny is hosting Style Camp at the beginning of July. The workshop is aimed at teen girls who want to learn more about fashion, beauty and etiquette. I love this concept and wish there was something like this during my teen years. I will be speaking at the event about blogging, online safety and etiquette as well as fashion online.

The Etsy Party has further inspired me to do a few small craft workshops. I have some wonderful supplies on hand and I had so many ladies asking for guidance at the party that it seems like the perfect idea. These will start in Durban for now and will be open to five ladies at a time. I will share dates and the venue soon. The focus will be on being creative rather than for professionals. I will be teaching so it will suit people who want to be more inspired in their wrapping, packaging and general creativity.

Past Events & Features:
Emma-Jane of EmmaJaneNation was in Durban recently and hosted a wonderful dinner very simply called Durban Dinner. It was such a fun evening of chatting and catching up with fellow bloggers. Ask Ashe, Ruby and Swallow and Jane of Marketed were just a few of the lovely ladies in attendance.

The super funny, clever and creative Che from indieberries did a very helpful post this week - all about naming your business. She included a Q&A with me about the subject. You will also see that I am offering a creative consulting special - don't miss out.

You might remember me mentioning the in-store workshop at The Ruby Orchard - the event went really well and was exceptionally well organised. I sponsored notebooks for all the creative attendees and I did a short closing talk to sum up what we learnt. Thanks so much to Hannah and Nicola for being so welcoming. It was a day full of tips and how to improve the business aspect of creative work.

This past weekend Blog Boot Camp  was held and I was proud to sponsor a prize to inspire the blogging minds who attended. The day looks like it was beautiful and full of useful learning. Lana and Kathryn are both respected bloggers so it was wonderful to be a part of the event and to share my creative business thoughts via my branded giveaway.







The photos start off with a few snaps of the Etsy Party, including an Instagram from Peg & Pencil. Followed by a photo of Emma-Jane and I taken by Nicola. The gorgeous blooms are from the workshop held at The Ruby Orchard as is the notebook photo. Lastly, I captured the packaging for my sponsored prize sent off to Blog Boot Camp.

I hope you have had a lovely week so far! Chat soon.

New Workshop Dates: March 2014


The first batch of 2014 Durban workshops are finally here. Hooray! Here are all the details:

Details:
The workshops are aimed at creative business owners in a variety of fields from photography and design to crafters or even bloggers. If you have your own business and want to learn and prosper, then the workshops are ideal for you. The topics range from social media to creative marketing ideas and there are two types of workshops – one for beginners and one for intermediates. The Beginner’s Workshops are ideal for business owners who would like to learn the basics. The Intermediate Workshops are for those who are in the industry and on the right track, but would perhaps like step it up a notch. 

The workshops started in Durban with sold out dates and an amazing array of creatives joining in. Last year I added Joburg to the list. All the past attendees have given wonderful reviews. Creatives who attend can look forward to a day of learning with practical examples and case studies of successful businesses and brands. The day is the ideal platform for networking within a creative environment. All the courses include a delicious lunch, snacks, a really lovely goodie bag and a host of giveaways from wonderful brands.

The workshops are currently being held in Durban. New dates for Johannesburg and Cape Town will follow. Email me to be added to the waiting list and be the first to know when bookings open or click here to view past workshops.

29th March: Florida Road, Durban
How do I know I am intermediate? 
You already have a blog or understanding of social media. You enjoy being online and want to grow your business even further.

The Facts:
This workshop is aimed at creatives who are ready to expand, grow their business and blog readership. You would like to get an even better understanding of the various tools available to you.

What does your hard earned R950 get you?

Creative Goal Setting:  
How to breakdown and achieve your personal and business goals.

Creative Branding:  
Tying your brand and business together as one. We cover the essentials of what creates a good brand.

Blogging Tips:  
Planning, scheduling and basic creative tips for putting posts together.

Social Media Tips:  
We will focus on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and how these can work towards generating blog readers and in turn more sales and opportunities.

Creative Marketing Ideas:  
Fun, cost effective ways to generate interest in your business or blog.

How to Approach the Press:  
Want to have your products or blog featured in magazines? I will give you the tips you need, from what to say to how you to say it.

Question and Answer Session:  
A time for you to chat to me about your problems, new ideas or even plans for your business.

Resource List:  
My preferred suppliers and how they can assist you.

In addition you will receive snacks, an amazing lunch, the chance to mingle and make new friends as well as network. A goodie bag bursting with wonderful surprises will also be waiting for you!

How to sign up
Email me (hello@nadiavdmescht.co.za) or call me (072 093 7730) with your full name, contact number and request to book your spot. I will send you an invoice and all the relevant booking details. Please only book if you can commit to attending as cancellations are not permitted.

15th March 2014 - Florida Road, Durban  SOLD OUT
How do I know I am a beginner? 
If you know social media is out there, but you don't understand its relevance or how it ties into your creative business. If you find Twitter to be a mystery and think Facebook is annoying, then this is the course for you. Sign up to get a user-friendly understanding of social media and creative business.

The Facts:
The focus will be on getting you acquainted with social media and how each platform is different, as well as how it works. We will cover Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram, along with the difference between a blog and a website. I will also touch on creative and useful tips to progress and grow your business.

What does your hard earned R950 get you?

Creative Goal Setting:
How to achieve your business goals and dreams by setting them out in a manageable and measurable way.

The Importance of Branding:
Why is it essential for your creative business and why you should invest in it.

Social Media:
The difference between the various platforms and how to use them for your business, including content and tone along with why they are important. We will break them down from logging in, to actually using them in a practical way.

Online Planning:
How to plan what to say and when to say it or share it on social media.

Blogging: 
An explanation of what blogging is and what its relevance is to your business.

Question and Answer Session:  
A time for you to chat to me about your problems, new ideas or even plans for your business.

Resource List:  
My preferred suppliers and how they can assist you.

In addition you will receive a delicious lunch, snacks, the chance to mingle and make new friends as well as network. A beautiful goodie bag is also included!


How to sign up: 
Email me (hello@nadiavdmescht.co.za) or call me (072 093 7730) with your full name, contact number and request to book your spot. I will send you an invoice and all the relevant booking details. Please only book if you can commit to attending as cancellations are not permitted.


29th March: Florida Road, Durban
How do I know I am intermediate? 
You already have a blog or understanding of social media. You enjoy being online and want to grow your business even further.

The Facts:
This workshop is aimed at creatives who are ready to expand, grow their business and blog readership. You would like to get an even better understanding of the various tools available to you.

What does your hard earned R950 get you?

Creative Goal Setting:  
How to breakdown and achieve your personal and business goals.

Creative Branding:  
Tying your brand and business together as one. We cover the essentials of what creates a good brand.

Blogging Tips:  
Planning, scheduling and basic creative tips for putting posts together.

Social Media Tips:  
We will focus on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and how these can work towards generating blog readers and in turn more sales and opportunities.

Creative Marketing Ideas:  
Fun, cost effective ways to generate interest in your business or blog.

How to Approach the Press:  
Want to have your products or blog featured in magazines? I will give you the tips you need, from what to say to how you to say it.

Question and Answer Session:  
A time for you to chat to me about your problems, new ideas or even plans for your business.

Resource List:  
My preferred suppliers and how they can assist you.

In addition you will receive snacks, an amazing lunch, the chance to mingle and make new friends as well as network. A goodie bag bursting with wonderful surprises will also be waiting for you!

How to sign up
Email me (hello@nadiavdmescht.co.za) or call me (072 093 7730) with your full name, contact number and request to book your spot. I will send you an invoice and all the relevant booking details. Please only book if you can commit to attending as cancellations are not permitted.

You can look forward to a day full of learning with practical examples and inspiration to allow you to prosper!

Joburg Workshops 2013

All the Pretty Details
As you might know or recall late last year I hosted my Creative Business Workshops in Joburg for the first time. They went wonderfully and exceeded my expectations. It was also a personal challenge that I undertook as I had not taught the workshops outside of Durban. The biggest thing that weighed on my mind was the fact that I had to drive around Joburg on my own - something I had never done before. I am happy to report that all worked out perfectly and I was proud of myself (and a bit amazed too). Prepare for a photo overload - I have so many details I want to share with you.

The next batch of workshops will take place in Durban, followed by Cape Town. Email me if you wish to be added to the waiting list.


The workshop was attended and photographed by the talented Mariaan of MStudio - a creative I really admire. Heaps of other equally wonderful ladies attended the three workshops and I truly enjoyed getting to know them and learning more about their personal business needs.

I really enjoyed the challenge of arranging the flowers. I usually have a sponsor who takes care of this or my very talented mom - Ellen who handles this aspect, but this time round it was my responsibility.
Goodies galore for all the lovely ladies in attendance.









Concentration faces!


A few incredible sponsors helped to make the workshops exceptional through their sponsored items.

I would like to thank:
Anna Louise Sleepwear: For four sets of beautiful PJ's.
Feral Goods:  Simone supplied the cutest kitty dish which went home with a fellow cat lover.

Typo: Each attendee received a bright folder to keep their ideas together. A few of the decor items also came from Typo.

Love Letter Stationery: One of my favourite suppliers who always takes care of all the workshop pencils which allow attendees to capture their ideas.

Consol: I am so grateful to have this wonderful local business behind me. They kindly supplied Grip & Go drinking bottles, jars for flowers and decor, plus a Solar Jar as a giveaway prize.

Washi Bug: Jaime and team are always ready to help. Thank you for the goodie bag tapes and the MT tape giveaway.

In Good Company: As if their amazing shops are not enough - the wonderful ladies at In Good Co supplied several of the decor items including the small drawers, cake stands and bell jars.

Elephantshoe: I am in love with this business. Thank you so much for the goodie bags and the straws.

M Studio: For capturing the day and the exciting and delightfully wrapped giveaway items.

MillaMae: One lucky attendee walked away with a 2014 diary, new notebook and wrapping goodies - all thanks to these lovely ladies.

Happiness Is: My creative partner and friend is always so happy to help. Each attendee received a calendar and postcard from Fathima.

Other items included where notebooks, name tag stickers and a few other giveaways - such as an issue of Molliemakes and Frankie. Almost everyone was able to win something.
Another thanks to the blogs who featured the workshops:

So... don't forget to email me if you wish to be added to the mailing list and to find out about the next round of workshops.