HAPPY HOLIDAYS

From our family to yours, HAPPY HOLIDAYS.

TUESDAYS WITH MIRIAM :: What Am I Supposed to do With the Debt ?!?!

Miriam is an Assistant Manager at a national banking institution. Her weekly posts will help you prepare for the financial realities of education and life. Be sure to leave a comment or send an email if you have specific financial questions.

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What Am I Supposed to do With the DEBT?!?!

One thing that the majority of college/graduate students encounter is debt. When we entered into our undergraduate studies at various colleges across the country our parents told us, “Don’t get a credit card!!” But what did we do? We got credit cards. Why? We wanted the freedom to break away from our limited incomes and be able to spend money when it was needed. The ideal situation is to be responsible with your credit and only spend what you can afford to pay off. However, this is not always the case. The majority of recent college graduates have some mixture of debt whether it is through student loans, personal loans, or credit cards. This then carries over when entering the work force or graduate school. The question then remains, “What am I supposed to do with the debt?”

1. Make a list of all of the debt you have. Be HONEST with yourself. You need to know what you owe down to the penny.

2. Figure out what your debt to income ratio is. You want your debt to income ratio to be less than 30%. You find this number by dividing your total monthly payments by your total monthly income. If this amount is higher than 30%, it could hurt you when you look for credit in the future.

3. If you have a lot of credit card debt, figure out the percentage of the credit limit that you are using by taking the amount of credit used on each individual card divided by the card’s limit. This number should also be less than 30%.

4. Figure out what interest rates you are receiving on your cards. As a student you probably received a low promotional rate and then a very high rate following the promotional period. The first step is to contact the credit card companies and request that your rates be lowered. If this cannot be accomplished, then you should search for a new card that has a lower rate and transfer your balance. Do not close out your old card!! You need to leave at least your oldest card open for length of credit.

5. It is often smart to also look at consolidation. This could possibly put you over the 30% utilization on your card; however, it will allow you to have one payment and lower what has to be paid each month so that you can pay the balance down quicker. Avoid using debt consolidators!! This information goes on your credit report and debt consolidators are typically used by those who have problems paying their bills. This can negatively impact you when creditors look at your credit report when you attempt to attain credit in the future.

6. Consolidate your student loans. You will have to contact the bank your student loans are through because each type of student loan is different and you can’t consolidate different types of loans in one bundle. For example, federal must be consolidated with federal and private with private, etc.

7. Be proactive. The debt will not just erase itself. If it is a substantial amount of debt, you will need to make LARGE payments so that you can see a difference. This may require you to have a roommate or give up some of your luxuries for awhile.

ChicMix Weekend Recap

Congratulations to TG. You are the winner of the December Reel to Real contest. TG shared, "My Star Makeup Crush has to be a mix of Gabby Union and Ms. Sasha Fierce!" CHICOLE::INTERMIXED couldn't agree more.

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This weekend we reread The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom. This book is a must read and worth every read after that.

"There are five people you meet in heaven,"..."Each of us was in your life for a reason. You may not have known the reason at the time, and that is what heaven is for. For understanding your life on earth." As the Holidays are just days away and the last minute shopping frenzy increases, we hope you are able to sit down and create a miniature version of heaven on earth. Whether you create an elaborate relaxation space or simply take a moment while in line at your favorite coffee or tea-house to stop and think about all of the triumphs and definitive moments in your life. We're sure your thoughts will be inundated with people and special memories with them rather than the acquisition of things. Why not express your gratitude to those very special people this holiday season. Tomorrow is not promised; tell them how you feel today. That's the best gift ever!

MAKEUP ART & DETAILS :: Reel to Real Contest with Your Celebrity Makeup Crush

Who's your celeb makeup crush? Don't forget to enter this month's Reel to Real contest for a chance to win a Limited Edition the Glam package and have your celeb makeup crush featured in this month's Reel to Real. Makes a great gift for you or a friend! So hurry and post your comment below by noon on December 21st.

Inspiration Board Credits
Faux-stone/crystal-pavé-dome necklace, Kenneth Jay Lane, shop.avon.com
Plated Gunmetal Bracelet, R.J. Graziano, lordandtaylor.com
Bandeau Jumpsuit, Paul & Joe Sister Noisette Bandeau Jumpsuit
Peep Toes,Victoriassecret.com
Gray Booties, Giuseppe Zanotti Shoes
Clutch, Aldo Shoes
Peacock Feather Earrings, fredflare.com
Top Makeup Photo Courtesy Imaxtree at Zac Posen Spring Ready to Wear 2009
Middle Makeup Photo Courtesy Haydee Ferreira
Lower Makeup Photo Courtesy People.com

HANDWRITTEN :: Personal Gratitude

A handwritten note does not due justice the deep humbleness and gratitude I feel for those who risked their lives and the lives of their families to help me during a recent major accident. I am so blessed to walk away from this with no major injuries. I’ll take the soreness, stiffness, and minor head trauma any day over the other potential outcomes. To my Father God and Angels. Thank you. To my family and friends. Thank you. To those who stopped to help. Thank you.

Clearly, my destiny is just beginning. Use me Lord!

Gratefully yours!

SYMBOLS & SUBSTANCE :: The Lost Year

You will constantly hear CHICOLE::INTERMIXED say something along the lines of follow your passion or go to Graduate or Professional school if it's really what you want to do. Students often return to school out of not knowing what they want to do or to meet the expectations of others. Below is one individuals decision NOT to go to grad school.

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Grad School: My mind is telling me no, but my body is telling me...well...no.
Courtesy The Lost Year Experience

In September of 2007 I began researching grad schools for...well...I wasn't really sure what, actually. I was looking into schools that I thought I could stand going to, in fields that didn't make me want to gouge my eyes out with a spork. Truth is, I was at a loss and I thought the only way to find my way was to go back to school. And somewhere in the background my father was doing the happy dance of a parent whose child had decided to give up acting and pursue a "real" career. He was hoping for business school. My grandfather was hoping for law school.

I was hoping for a paying job that didn't make me look or feel like a moron, with decent benefits on the side.

I'm still not positive I don't want to go to grad school, but I do believe that it is not necessary in every field in the world today...in a lot of cases work experience and making connections are more valuble.

Plus, well, SHEESH it's pricey.

I was raised in a household (and community) where a great deal of emphasis was placed on the importance of education, so it was never even a question in the deepest recesses of my mind that I would attend college. After that, I just wasn't sure.

And I'm still not sure.

And next year I probably still won't be sure.

But sweet jeebus I hope I at least have that steady-paying job with benefits by then.

Oh, and my grandfather called the other day to ask how long the lease on my apartment was...because what if I need to leave to go to grad school???

Oh, siiiiggggghhhhh. To be able to make everyone in my family, including myself, happy and proud of my accomplishments in life...that would be nice.

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Revisit CHICOLE::INTERMIXED's Deciding to Go post on choosing to attend grad and professional school. Are you sure this is what you want to do?

TUESDAYS WITH MIRIAM :: Your Best Monery Savings Tips

As the economy continues its downward spiral and we all continue to watch our pennies, we often hear the same tried and true money saving tips being repeated---spend less than you earn, cut back on buying wants, yadda yadda yadda. As gift buying season continues and as many begin thinking of money-related New Year’s Resolutions, we thought a group discussion on your best money saving tips was fitting. Trent at The Simple Dollar recently posted on reader submitted comments for saving money. We’ve reprinted the entire article below because it’s just that good.

What are your own best tips and actions for saving money? Please share your tips in the comments section below so we all can learn something new.

The Readers Speak Out: Their 25 Best Actions for Saving Money
Trent :: The Simple Dollar

A few days ago, I mentioned my single best action for saving money in my own life - utilizing the library. I also encouraged readers to submit their own best actions - and did they ever! The post has already received almost 250 comments and several dozen more readers emailed me their single best action.

As promised, I’ve compiled a list of all of these actions. Here are the top twenty five - basically, these are the ones that were repeated more than twice. These aren’t in any particular order. If you want some direct personal finance actions that have actually worked for people, here’s your list.

1. Utilize the library. Many readers agreed with my statement about how valuable the library is for those who read avidly. Not only can it save you on the cost of buying books, it can also provide DVDs for viewing, CDs for listening, and many other interesting cultural experiences if you pay attention to the schedule of events.

2. Use online bill pay. Not only does online bill pay save you the expense of envelopes and stamps (roughly fifty cents per bill paid online), it also provides you the convenience of auto-calculating your bills and comparing them immediately to your checking and savings account balances. No more checkbook math necessary.

3. Get your paycheck direct deposited. Instead of receiving a paper paycheck, have your paycheck directly deposited into your checking account. This spares you the need to have to go to the bank to cash your check, plus relieves you of the temptation to have some cash taken out of the check when you deposit it.

4. Make your own lunch and take it to work with you. Instead of eating out every day, brown bag it! Prepare a lunch the night before and take that lunch with you to work the next day. It can be leftovers, it can be a fresh meal (like a sandwich), but either way, it can cut into your costs tremendously.

5. Stay home. Instead of going out on the town for entertainment, stay at home and enjoy the activities available in your domicile. Most of the activities you can do at home - reading, watching television, exercising, playing games with friends, meditating, listening to music, cooking, etc. - are far cheaper than similar activities you might do out of the home.

6. Set up an automatic savings plan. If you’re getting your paycheck automatically deposited, consider setting up an automatic savings plan to have some of that money routed into retirement or into a savings account for an emergency fund. It’s far, far easier to start saving if the actual transfer of money happens automatically without your intervention.

7. Build an emergency fund. Alongside that advice comes the idea of building an emergency fund, a cash reserve that can help you in the event of a crisis such as a job loss or an automobile breakdown. It’s easy to build one - just sweep a small amount of money on a regular basis into a savings account, watch it build, and utilize that cash when the time comes.

8. Stop smoking or drinking. Expensive consumables can be a huge drain on your financial situation. Eliminating a consumable habit, such as tobacco or alcohol, can quickly improve your financial situation while also improving your health (which can also improve your financial situation by reducing health care costs).

9. Use the “envelope” system. Many people swear by this method, in which one actually budgets their money for a month using “envelopes.” Whenever you need money for, say, groceries, you take money out of the groceries envelope - when that envelope is empty, you’re out for the month. This forces you to be careful with your spending in all respects.

10. Stop looking at ads. Advertisements of all kinds - from television commercials to flyers from the Sunday paper - simply serve to coerce you into spending money on things you don’t actually need. Minimizing your exposure to advertisement minimizes the temptation to spend that money, keeping it at home in your wallet where it belongs.

11. Ditch cable television. Cable television is often a pricy monthly bill and all it does is provide you with more channels that repeat variations on the same content. Get a digital converter box instead and watch the channels that come in over the air - ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, Fox, and often others. And they’re free - no monthly bill!

12. Drink more tap water. Tap water makes you healthier (most people are somewhat dehydrated, even if they don’t realize it), fills you up (keeping you from overeating expensive food at meals), and is incredibly cheap compared to any other beverage out there. Take advantage of the tap - it can save you a ton of money on beverages and on food.

13. Eat out less (esp. fast food) and cook at home instead. Every time you purchase prepared food outside the home, you’re spending more than you would making a similar meal at home. So why not adopt that as a platform instead? Learn how to cook at home, make your own meals, and save a lot of money.

14. Stop shopping for fun. Shopping is a very expensive form of entertainment. Instead of shopping with your free time, find other fun things to do - almost anything is cheaper - and leave the shopping trips for the times when you actually need an item.

15. Use the “ten second rule” (or some close variation of it). Whenever you are tempted to spend your money on something frivolous, stop for a few seconds and ask yourself whether you really need this item. Ten seconds is usually enough - many people also recommend putting the item down and leaving the store, only returning if you’ve decided you actually want it after some serious consideration.

16. Accept help from others. It’s easy to let pride get in the way of accepting help from others. Don’t let that happen. Be willing to accept help if others offer it, and be thankful for it. Later on, when your situation improves, you can pay it forward and help someone who needs it.

17. Plan ahead for meals. At the start of a week, make a careful plan of what meals you’re going to eat during the week, then make a grocery shopping list based solely on those meals. When you go grocery shopping, stick to that list. This is a great way to keep your food shopping bill low while keeping the food you want and need on the table.

18. Go on a diet. Many people recommended healthy dieting as a tactic for saving money. If you make a conscious choice to eat less, not only will you save money on your food bill, you’ll also reduce your health care bill and perhaps your clothing bill as well (since it’ll be easier to find consignment clothes).

19. Eliminate expensive hobbies. Are you engaged in a hobby that requires a lot of financial upkeep, like golf or collecting? Instead of continuing that expensive hobby and watching it drain all your money, choose a different path entirely - find a new hobby to focus your energy on that doesn’t require so much upkeep cost.

20. Stop reading women’s magazines. This is perhaps the biggest surprise on this list for me, but several readers swear by it. They argue that women’s magazines are extremely effective at convincing you to shop for things you don’t necessarily need, convincing you that you need some item in order to keep up with the crowd. Spare yourself the guilt - skip those magazines.

21. Make a budget/spending plan. If you can’t seem to get a grip on your spending, try assembling a budget/spending plan so that you can clearly see where your money is going. Spend a month or two keeping careful track of what you actually do spend on certain items, then set a spending goal for that type of item. This can simultaneously serve as a wake-up call and as “training wheels” for good financial habits.

22. Set strong goals. Don’t fleetingly think about how you wish things were. Instead, sketch out exactly how you want your life to be in, say, five years, then focus all of your actions toward that goal. Not only can this cut out frivolous spending, it can also help you to make strong choices to improve every aspect of your life.

23. Stop worrying about what other people think. Don’t let the opinion of others rule the choices you make in your personal life. It’s not their life to live - it’s your life. Instead, make choices that you think are strong - and don’t worry about the neighbors or the naysayers.

24. Sell your car. A car is perhaps the worst investment you can make. It depreciates rapidly, breaks down regularly, and requires constant upkeep. Instead of dealing with this, sell the car and make do with the other transportation options available to you - a bicycle, buses, trains, and so forth.

25. Be accountable to what you spend. Finally, try having a weekly or monthly review of all of your spending. Make yourself face the mistakes you’ve made - don’t let a bad spending move lie in the dust and be forgotten. Use it as a tool to make sure it never happens again.

Hopefully, these tactics spur you on to great things.
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What are your own best tips and actions for saving money? Please share your tips in the comments section below so we all can learn from your wisdom.

MAKEUP ART & DETAILS :: Limited Edition Glitz & Glam Packages & Reel to Real Contest

Today is the deadline to reserve your Limited Edition Glitz & Glam Package, priced especially for you recessionistas! They make great gifts for you or a loved one. Gift Certificates are available and come in a stylish box, ready for giving.


Reel to Real

What celeb look are you lusting after? A fabulous New Year's Eve smokey eye? The trendy dark chocolate or classic red lip? Reese Witherspoon's look in Four Christmases? J-Lo at The Curious Case of Benjamin Button premier? Beyonce as Sasha Fierce? Share your thoughts via the comments section or email by noon on December 21st and you'll be entered to win a Limited Edition "the Glam" package. Your look will also be featured as December's Reel to Real. Winner will be randomly selected from all entries received.

We can't wait to see your makeup crush!

HANDWRITTEN :: Romans Twelve Thinking of You Cards

Featuring Romans 12:12 and Psalms 42:8, these Thinking of You cards are simply gorgeous. Each folded card is made in black and white with a complimentary fleur de lis design and blank on the inside, so you can truly say what you feel. Visit Mrs.DStahl and order yours today.

SYMBOLS & SUBSTANCE :: Application Essays...Your 30 Second Commercial

By now you are aware that the graduate and professional school admissions process is highly competitive and that the application is THE deciding factor for your acceptance. Unfortunately, many students often stumble over the essay portion of the application. The essay questions not only provide an opportunity for you to answer the questions asked, but more importantly allow you to showcase , well, YOU. Understandably, this of course, is often the most difficult part of the application process. How can you possibly share your passion and purpose for continuing your education, highlight your strengths and greatest achievements, honestly divulge your weaknesses, and explain why you would be an asset to their program within the minimal word or space limitations?

Think of it as your 30 second commercial. You are the product, of course. Your writing is your pitch, your commercial. A quality and memorable commercial has a message. A clear and concise message is what makes a commercial of good quality and memorable. I hope you notice the simple but necessary thought pattern here. Your essays should do the same. They should answer the question asked, while maintaining the themes of who you are and why you should be admitted to the program. As you craft each essay, ask yourself, does your answer tell the admissions committee who you are, why you want to continue your education at their institution and program, and how you would benefit their program?

Here is a quick checklist for completing your essays. CHICOLE::INTERMIXED will gladly help you through this process. Trouble getting started or need an objective reviewer, send us an email or leave a comment and we'll help you out.


CHICOLE::INTERMIXED Essay Tips
:: Read all the instructions! This means all word and space restrictions.
Complete all essays for your program, even those marked optional. All essays marked optional are not optional. It’s a trick. If you do not answer them, you are yielding time to your opponent (other students trying to get admitted). Now, why would you want to do that? If the admissions committee tells you they are willing to giving your application additional time, USE IT!

:: Start early. Allow time for drafts and proofreading by several different individuals. Even the best, most simple commercials weren’t completed on the first take. They require hours of editing.

:: Consider your audience and what they are looking for. Don’t know your audience, find out! Call the school, department, or program and start asking questions. Surf the web or read the endless brochures they have. If you don’t address your reader appropriately, it’s like showing up to a white tie event in flip flops or sneakers. So inappropriate.

:: Write clearly, succinctly and with enthusiasm. Tell them what you’re going to tell them. Tell them. Tell them what you told them. Yes, you can add personality by writing around a central story or creative theme, but you still must write with brevity and purpose. There are some programs and schools who prefer flowery prose and long doctrinal answers to essay questions, but most like it simple and straightforward.

:: Use active voice. Answer your questions with “I” and first person.

:: Proofread. Proofread. Proofread.

TUESDAYS WITH MIRIAM :: College Savings 101...Start with a 529

Miriam is an Assistant Manager at a national banking institution. Her weekly posts will help you prepare for the financial realities of education and life. Be sure to leave a comment or send an email if you have specific financial questions.

College Savings 101...Start with a 529

What is a 529 Plan?
A 529 Plan is an education savings plan operated by a state or educational institution designed to help families set aside funds for future college costs. It is named after Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code which created these types of savings plans in 1998.

State plans are OK for out of state colleges
529 Plans can be used to meet costs of qualified colleges nationwide. In most plans, your choice of school is not affected by the state your 529 savings plan is from. You can be a CA resident, invest in a VT plan and send your student to college in NC. Check to see if your institution is eligible under 529 rules...here.

Which states offer 529 plans?
Every state now has at least one 529 plan available. It's up to each state to decide whether it will offer a 529 plan (possibly more than one) and what it will look like, meaning 529 plans can differ from state to state. You should research the features and benefits of your plan before you invest, research state 529 plans...here and even compare between plans compare between plans...here.

Tax Benefits
As long as the plan satisfies a few basic requirements, the federal tax law provides special tax benefits to you, the plan participant. See the top 7 benefits of 529 plans...here

Some states (but not all) offer tax incentives to investors as well. Research your state's tax treatment...here

Types of 529 plans
529 plans are usually categorized as either prepaid or savings plans.

Savings Plans work much like a 401K or IRA by investing your contributions in mutual funds or similar investments. The plan will offer you several investment options from which to choose. Your account will go up or down in value based on the performance of the particular option you select.

Prepaid Plans let you pre-pay all or part of the costs of an in-state public college education. They may also be converted for use at private and out-of-state colleges. The Independent 529 Plan is a separate prepaid plan for private colleges.

Educational institutions can offer a 529 prepaid plan but not a 529 savings plan (the private-college Independent 529 Plan is the only institution-sponsored 529 plan thus far).

Enrolling in a 529 plan
There are two ways to invest in a 529 plan:

Directly with the 529 Plan manager [now available at most banking institutions] or through a financial advisor.

Courtesy Savingforcollege.com

ChicMix Weekend Recap

This weekend, Chicole::Intermixed hosted a suit and accessories drive benefitting Dress for Success. We truly heart this organization. We hope you found time to give back this weekend too.

Here are a few upcoming events we can't wait to attend:

:: Fashion at the Culture Club sponsored by Epiphany Modeling Troupe::
Friday, December 12, 2008 :: Indiana University, Willkie Auditorium :: 7 pm



With half pivots, whole turns, mannequin turns and three phases of POSE, Epiphany Modeling Troupe is prepared to usher in a high style, class, and grace at Fashion at the Culture Club. With sponsors Urban Outfitters, Dope Couture, The Limited, Vanity, and K&S menswear, these talented models will showcase casual, professional, special event, outdoor, and formal attire along with their academic and community aptitude. Ten percent of all proceeds to benefit local community service efforts.
$5 in advance, $7 day of, $10 VIP seating. For additional information, please contact ldhampto@indiana.edu.

:: 23rd Annual Debutante Cotillion sponsored by Alpha Mu Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ::
Sunday, December 14, 2008 :: Indiana Roof Ballroom, Indianapolis, IN :: 6 pm





Since 1986, Alpha Mu Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc has presented over 400 young ladies to the Indianapolis community through the Debutante Cotillion program. Through workshops, seminars, mentoring and service activities, the Cotillion program provides academic scholarships, character and leadership development, and promotes friendship, community service, and volunteerism among high school juniors and seniors. In 2007, more than $100,000 in academic scholarships was awarded to participants after they were presented to family, friends, and guests. Won't you help celebrate the academic and personal success of the 2008 Debutantes?

Tickets are $50. For additional information, please contact info@akaamo.org or visit here.
Photo Courtesy Alpha Mu Omega Chapter.

:: Afternoon Tea 2009 hosted by e-vents: a wedding and event planning company ::
Saturday, January 3, 2009 :: The Canterbury Hotel, Indianapolis, IN :: 4pm

You are cordially invited to the annual Afternoon Tea 2009. Come and relive the stress of the holidays while enjoying a cup of tea and a wonderful selection of tea sandwiches and participate in the teacup exchange. R.S.V.P by December 20, 2008. For additional information, visit here

MAKEUP ART & DETAILS: Wow Brows

Courtesy Essence.com

Essence Magazine recently interviewed Damone Roberts, makeup artist turned brow guru, on the importance of eyebrow maintenance. Check it out the full story, Wow Brows with Eyebrow Expert Damone Roberts.

HANDWRITTEN :: le papiere studio custom silhouette stationery

le papiere studio offers stationery that is just darling. You can personalize any number of items with a custom silhouette creating a vintage yet modern image. These cards are a unique alternative to the traditional holiday photo card. For recently married couples, it's a romantic way to say thank you! Place you holiday order by December 15th to guarantee receipt before Christmas.

SYMBOLS & SUBSTANCE :: Difference Between Graduate and Professional School

A reader asked a great question...What's the difference between graduate school and professional school?

Graduate School is advanced academic training that prepares students for careers as faculty, researchers, or other scholarly endeavors. Graduate school allows a student to focus on one academic area of interest in the humanities, sciences, or social sciences and receive a masters or doctoral degree in that specific area. Professional school prepares students for careers in specialized fields that require licensing or other advanced certification like law, medicine, dentistry, business, etc.

Standardized test scores are a part of the application process for any advanced degree program. The test you take is determined by the program to which you are applying: The Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) for Law, The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) for the MBA, The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) for Medicine, The Dental Aptitude Test (DAT) for Dentistry, The Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) for Pharmacy, and The Optometry Admission Test (OAT) for Optometry.

TUESDAYS WITH MIRIAM :: How Do I Start Saving?

Miriam is an Assistant Manager at a national banking institution. Her weekly posts will help you prepare for the financial realities of education and life. Be sure to leave a comment or send an email if you have specific financial questions.

How Do I Start Saving?

Given today's economy, we are all worried about whether or not to save. So, you may ask, what do I do? My answer is that you should always continue to save regardless of what is going on in the economy around you. However, you must be smart in what you are doing to make sure that you are not losing money. Regardless of whether you are holding a job or a student, it is important to start now. Did you know that if you save $4,000 for 30 years at a 5% interest rate, you would have approximately $279,000 saved? However, if you start 5 years later, you would only have $200,000. You would forfeit almost $59,000 worth of interest!!! A common question that many people ask is, how do I start saving? Here are a few tips to help get you started.

1. Start small: Open a savings account at the bank where you currently have a checking account. Banks will typically offer you a free savings account if you have a relationship with them so that you have time to build your balance. If not, open up a second checking account to store money in until you can meet the minimum balance for a savings account.

2. Participate in your job's 401k program: Most companies match your deposits. If they do, you should contribute as much as they will match. However, if you feel like you can't contribute that much, it is important to contribute something to your 401k. If not, you are missing out on free money.

3.Open a personal IRA: IRA's come in various forms (money market, certificate of deposit). However, they are easy to open and often times pay the same interest rates as certificates of deposit. As a result, during times like these when the market is shaky it may be beneficial to slightly adjust your 401k contributions and add some of this money to your personal IRA because you won't lose as much money. In addition, some IRA's are tax deductible. On the downside, once the market goes back up, you will still be earning about the same rate on your IRA and missing out on some of the growth that you would have received if it had been in place in your 401K.

4. Get a financial advisor early: Most people have the misconception that financial advisors are expensive. This is not the case. Most banks have financial advisors onboard that can offer you advice free of charge. You will only see a charge once you start investing and it typically comes from your returns and is not an upfront cost.

In short, save now regardless of how much you have to save. Always realize that the market itself will fluctuate but this should not deter you from putting money away.

MAKEUP ART & DETAILS :: Holiday Glamour & Chicole::Intermixed

Are you a Glam Girl or an IT Girl? The Holidays mean drama, glamour, sparkle, and shine. It's the perfect time of year to spice up your look-go ahead wear red lipstick, add a little gold or jewel toned highlight to your cheekbones, bridge or your nose, and your shoulders, or bring on the timeless sultry vamp waiting to say hello to the world with some false eyelashes that will make him purrrr with one glance a la Jessica Rabbit, Diahann Carroll, or Raquel Whelch.

Turn your entire primping process into a complete experience. Book your holiday appointment with Chicole::Intermixed by December 12 and take advantage of one of these recessionista-friendly specials:

the Glitz
Treat yourself to eyebrow grooming and eyelash application. $20.

the Glam
Treat yourself to eyebrow grooming, eyelash application, and your special occasion makeup application with custom blended foundation. $45.

the IT GIRL
The superfly diva will treat herself to high-def photo ready makeup including eyebrow grooming, eyelash application AND 45 minute photoshoot with DMitch Photography. $80.

Gift Certificates Available.

SYMBOLS & SUBSTANCE :: Deciding to Go

"The greatest danger when you make the decision to attend graduate school is failing to ask enough questions of yourself and those in the field to which you aspire." December 2003, Saint Louis University Career Chronicles

Going to graduate or professional school is a major time, mental, financial, and emotional commitment. Though, one that is very rewarding, if it is something you REALLY want to do.
The above article provides an excellent list of detailed questions a potential student should ask of themselves and others, especially in a down economy when everyone considers a return to school. I've summarized them into four very basic questions that can be twisted and turned into whatever direction they may need to bend. I've found simplicity leads to honesty when making life altering decisions:

More School
Is it for me?
Am I sure?
Am I sure I'm sure?
Am I sure I want to go now?

Answering these questions, and the many they are designed to elicit, honestly, passionately, and affirmatively is admirable. If in the end, you really want to go to graduate and professional school because it is what YOU want to do and a way for YOU to achieve your goals, then, GO. Getting to this point of self-reflection is a third of the overall first battle. The second third is finding and getting into a choice program. The final third of the first battle is completing the degree and using it to fulfill your personal definition of advancement and success. A start will always lead to a finish. What kind of a finish and when it will happen, are still up for discussion.

HANDWRITTEN :: Calligraphy Snowflake Letterpress Card

If only snow were as sweet and precious as this card from Paper Dragonfly Studio and Rose + Frieda Paper and Press. This card features a hand lettered calligraphy snowflake made from the words love, joy, peace, wonder, and is printed in soft blue ink on frosty Luxe card stock. It is accompanied by a soft blue envelope. Inside text: blessings of the season. The folded card size is 5.5"x4.25". Each card is $3.75 and available on Etsy.

ChicMix Weekend Recap

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Hope you enjoyed your holiday. Mine unfortunately, was rudely interrupted by an uninvited and annoying houseguest. He's finally starting to pack his bags. Actually he got kicked out because I have work and finals to tend. Today's ChicMix Weekend Recap will be all the posts you should have read last week:

SYMBOLS & SUBSTANCE :: Deciding to Go
HANDWRITTEN :: Calligraphy Snowflake Letterpress Card
MAKEUP ART & DETAILS :: Holiday Glamour & Chicole::Intermixed

TUESDAYS WITH MIRIAM: Tis the Season to Save Money

Chicole::Intermixed is pleased to introduce Tuesdays with Miriam. Miriam is an Assistant Manager at a national banking institution. Her weekly posts will help you prepare for the financial realities of education and life. Be sure to leave a comment or send an email if you have specific financial questions.

Tis the Season to Save Money!!!

The holidays do not have to be a time where you have to spend, spend, spend. Follow some of these simple tips to help save yourself some money while buying your loved ones gifts that they will treasure!

1. Start Planning Early – Start making a budget before you make it to the holidays. Think about how much money you will have and how much money you will be spending on required expenses, gifts, and holiday entertainment. By doing this you will know how much money you truly have available to spend during the holidays so that you don’t overspend.

2. Make lists, Decide how much you will spend, and don’t go over! – It is important to make a list of who you will buy gifts for, what you are going to purchase, and how much you will spend. Stick to this list! Don’t spend more than you have allocated for each person.

3. Look in multiple places – Don’t just go to the store and purchase a gift. Do some comparison shopping to make sure that you are getting the best deal. Also, the internet is an awesome place to find discounted prices, but it requires you to start looking early so that you make sure your gifts will arrive on time.

4. Avoid using credit cards as much as possible – If you have started to budget for holiday spending well in advance you shouldn’t have to use your credit cards. However, if you have to use a credit card follow these guidelines:
a. Pay off the balance ASAP – Don’t let the balance hang around until the holidays float
around again the next year. Remember if you use credit cards more than likely you have
to pay some interest on them.
b. Use a card with a low interest rate – Go through your credit cards and use the one with
the lowest interest rate. If you have to take awhile to pay the card off, it will save you
some money in interest.
c. Don’t sign up for or use store credit cards – While the stores may offer you discounts
for signing up for these cards, the interest rates are typically extremely high.

5. Open a savings account now - If you don’t already have a savings account open one now. Start by saving $10 a week and you will have approximately $500 saved up for holiday spending next year.

Gratitude Gifts

A thought occurred as I write my thank you cards to all of the Glitz & Glam participants and vendors. Although every day should be a day of thanks and giving, we are just a few days away from the official Thanksgiving Holiday. Black Friday will start the deluge of gift buying and stress of finding a perfect gift. How often do we feel unappreciated during the year and especially after we spent time, effort, and money tracking down the perfect gift, often for people whom we do not interact with on a daily basis but feel an obligation to acknowledge. Why not, tell someone how much you appreciate them as your gift?

Find high quality stationery that reflects their personality, place their name at the top of the page, and write 25 things that you love and appreciate about them. Then place the stationery in its matching envelope, softly roll it upon itself and seal with a nice bow, or frame your thoughts in a coordinating picture frame, and offer as a holiday gift. There you have it. A simple, unique, and inexpensive gift guaranteed to become a treasure.

Want to add to this unique gratitude gift, purchase a collage frame with three or more openings of various sizes. Arrange your thoughts among pictures of you and the recipient. Wrap it with a bow or place in a reusable bag, and this unique gift, will be hung up immediately for all to see. This activity is also perfect to complete as a family after Thanksgiving Dinner. It's a great way of relishing on past memories while creating new ones.

ChicMix Weekend Recap

It's been a busy weekend for Chicole::Intermixed. We hosted Glitz & Glam: A Holiday Tea Party and keyed makeup for the annual Miss Black & Gold Pageant sponsored by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc, Gamma Eta Chapter. So much eye candy, face candy, and just plain good food, folks and fun in one weekend, refreshed and renewed our souls. I'm so blessed to be a business owner, doing what I love to do, with the people I love, and serving as a resource for others.



Quick recap. Separate posts with pictures for each event to follow so that you can see all of the fabulosity:



GLITZ & GLAM. All the preparations paid off as we had a FABULOUS time at the Tea Cozy. The color scheme was black and silver, accented in purple and zebra print. Yes zebra! The candelabras were divine with their antiqued finish and long purple candles. The food, scrumptious and the teatinis, so good, you didn't need the alcohol. They were intoxicating enough by themselves. The program was informative and the shopping delightful.



MISS BLACK AND GOLD. The contestants were phenomenal and gorgeous to boot, which made my job so much easier. The look was classic elegance tailored to each young lady and complimented with defined brows and lashes. The ladies were simply breathtaking as they took the stage in their business suits, talent outfits, and evening gowns. As it should, their confidence and personality outshined their lip gloss ;-)



Did you attend either of these events? Leave a comment or send us an email and let Chicole::Intermixed know you how enjoyed them. We'll be sure to include a few of your comments in the forthcoming detailed posts because of course, we're a little biased.

Dressing Your Thoughts

Chicole::Intermixed hearts stationery, paper goods, and quality writing instruments. I ASKED for and received my first calligraphy set when I was 8 years old. I know, I know. You don’t have to tell me, but in my defense, I also asked for the entire collection of Jem and the Holograms dolls. Through the years, I’ve grown to notice the difference and the impact of messages delivered on ho hum versus quality stationary.

When expressing your thoughts of gratitude or other sentiments, the words you write are not the only part of conveying a message; the stationery itself is also very important. Often, it tells your true thoughts before a word is read. Yes, it is the thought of sending your sentiments that counts; however, would you go to a celebration dressed in sweats? Why treat your well intentioned thoughts like Cinderella before the ball? They want to be dressed too. Quality stationery for personal sentiments is traditionally thick and feels rich and textured to the touch. The style, design, and color are also crucial to creating an appropriate image or symbol of your thoughts. It may be a simple monogram or a more elaborate image that invokes thankfulness, well wishes, thinking of you, or sympathy.

But even when dressed, your thoughts are even more spectacular when handwritten. The type of pen, tip and ink used can add an additional eloquence and sincerity to your thoughts. Want to express something more casual or whimsical, use a complimenting ink color besides black or blue. Don’t like your handwriting, hire someone to write your thoughts for you in an appropriate lettering style.

Etsy, “the place to buy and sell all things handmade,” is the number one place to head for handmade and customized paper goods (and everything else handmade). Handmade or customized screams “You’re Special” to the recipient. On a budget, you can find quality at a great price point because Target is now selling Papyrus stationery and card sets. Better yet, get creative and make your own stationery. Be sure to stop by our friends at Handsome Lucy as they prepare to launch as a stationer dedicated to reviving the art of social and executive communications.

As we enter the season of expressing thanks and giving (back), here are a few perfect writing tips courtesy of Stationery Style:

Whether it's a simple note of thanks or a serious business correspondence, letter writing is a skill that everyone should develop. Not only will good writing enable you to communicate well in print, but it can also transform your spoken and personal communication as well. Here are some simple tips to remember whenever you are writing...

• Make it personal. A letter is always received more consciously when it is addressed in person versus, "Dear Friend," or "Hi There!"
• Take your time. Never write when you don't have time to think. Stop and be engaged in your writing. Contemplate who you are writing to and think about how they may receive your message. If you must write something difficult or negative, put that information in a "compliment sandwich". That is, say something positive about the person or situation on either side of the negative. There are few, if any, circumstances where being blunt is better than being gracious.
• Throw in a quote. There have been many, many great phrases uttered through history, and an appropriately-placed quote can make your correspondence more memorable. A quote can also serve as an interesting way to introduce your note or letter.
  Make it real. Simply put, write like you speak. Nothing is more impersonal than distant, "high-brow" writing. Be natural and simple in your correspondence. Don't use two words where one will do. And don't be afraid to start a sentence with "and."
• Practice good grammar. Natural and "real" doesn't mean substandard. Be careful to avoid words like "ain't" or "sucks" or "the bomb." Looking for an original word? Just visit thesaurus.com or buy a small reference thesaurus to keep near your writing desk.
• Writing environment. This may seem unnecessary but it really helps... Sit up straight in a good ergonomic chair and write on a hard surface with good lighting. It will help your concentration and focus, allowing you to write longer without fatigue. For a handwritten note, your handwriting will also not suffer as much over time if you put your body in a good position to write.

Chicole::Intermixed has quality stationery on hand just waiting for your thoughts! Contact us today so we can get started penning your holiday thoughts or personal sentiments. I may even break-out my childhood calligraphy pen to add a touch of nostaligia to your thoughts.

High Tea, Low Tea, Dessert Tea...What's the Difference

As you know, Chicole Intermixed is hosting a tea. Recently someone asked what type of tea party is Glitz & Glam? It will be a High Tea with an emphasis on the PARTY. What's the difference? Thankfully Erika of e-vents has done all the work for me in preparing the answer to the common differences among taking tea. Head on over and read the differences. She will also host her annual tea in January.

Why the emphasis on Tea Party for Glitz & Glam? I'm glad you asked. As women, there is no rest for the weary. We traditionally carry the bulk of the responsibilities for family and home throughout the year. The holidays often create an additional stress as we try to make sure that every meal is impeccable, every gift memorable, and everyone entertained. Tea has numerous health benefits and has been on the top of many lists for helping its drinkers find a little relaxation and peace, if only fleeting. Glitz & Glam: A Holiday Tea Party is a time to stop and enjoy a little bit of "me time" in the company of other fabulous superwomen.

Is it time for you to schedule a little "me-time?"

Glitz & Glam: A Holiday Tea Party

Chicole::Intermixed is hosting a tea party and we can't wait! Saturday, November 22nd, participants will be treated to fashion, hair and makeup as well as financial and mental health tips for a fantabulous holiday season and new year all while helping to empower the women of Dress for Success-Indianapolis. You'll also receive take home gifts full of swag! This is not your traditional frou frou high tea; it's a tea PARTY.


the Menu:
Pesto and Garlic Jumbo Shrimp Kabobs

Creole Creamy Tomato Soup
Cozy Tea House Salad

Apple Cider Smoked Cornish Hens (Halved)
Gorgonzola Stuffed Steak
Sauteed Italian-herb Broccolini
Twice Baked Sweet Potato

Dessert- well now, somethings must be kept secret ;-)

the Details:
Saturday, November 22, 2008
5-8pm
The Tea Cozy
50 North Illinois St. Indianapolis, IN 46202
$45

the Attire:
Sophisticated Chic

RSVP by November 14th to chicoleintermixed@gmail.com.
Payment must be received to confirm your seat.
We can't wait to see you!!!

Welcome to Chicole::Intermixed

Always one to find a relationship among the most unlikely things, I realized the relationship between my passions-people,and purpose-service. People are my passion. My passion is people, their EMPOWERMENT::ADVANCEMENT::SUCCESS. In coupling my love of makeup artistry and stationery expressions and my career in education, I found my unique way to be of service one individual at a time. At the most basic level of all three lies an individual's need and desire to feel special, unique, and appreciated. Unless someone has a certain level of self-confidence, dreams will remain hopeless dreams. Education and career goals will remain unattained and the personal definition of success will remain unfulfilled.

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Makeup Art & Details

From a simple coat of tinted and scented chapstick, to the most dramatic of full-faced runway looks, makeup is a tool that enhances both internal and external beauty. Some use it to cover, others use it to create. Either way, there is an emotional response that takes place and a level of confidence and self-esteem that springs forth. The old adage is true, if you look good, you'll feel good. If you feel good, then you'll do good.

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Educational Consulting

Too often higher education becomes an unnecessary barrier to life's goals. Some end up chasing degrees and end up in unfulfilling careers. While others never head to the traditional institution and end up loving life because they never really go to "work." What is right for you is right for you alone.

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Expressions

Handwritten or personalized expressions are the ultimate sign of appreciation and gratitude. Setting aside time to say thanks shows just how significant someone or a gift received was to you.

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This blog is dedicated to sharing resources and letting you know the latest happenings at Chicole::Intermixed in these three areas. Check back often and be sure to show link love, post your comments, or contact us at chicoleintermixed{at}gmail.com with questions or items you would like to read.