Instead of having a party to celebrate my 31st birthday, I decided to do something AWESOME... I launched a campaign to raise $10,000 by seeking 321 supporters to donate $31 each. Once I reach my goal, I will have enough resources to launch A Little More Hope - an online resources providing accessible resources, support, and education to survivors of sexual assault.

Check out my fundraising page here for more details!  I would be incredibly grateful if you would consider sharing my campaign, or donating $31 towards A Little More Hope.
www.YouCaring.com/alittlemorehope

Recently Christy Smith, founder of Spice Creative was presented a Top 20 Under 40 Business and Community Achievement Award in recognition of philanthropic and career success!

"This prestigious award is a huge honor and I am grateful and humbled to have been included in such a category!  Thank you to everyone who has helped pave the way towards realizing my goals – The best is yet to come!!"

I’M A SMARTGIRL....... Finally, it’s official.  ;-)

I’m thrilled to be a winner of the ‘smartgirls challenge,’ a contest launched by glacéau smartwater and Plan Canada’s Because I am a Girl initiative.  As one of three winners, I will be travelling to Rwanda with Olympian Jennifer Heil to celebrate the opening of a new school for girls!  

To enter I submitted an essay through a contest on Facebook that explained how I’ve made a difference in the lives of girls and women by raising awareness and funds for the Victoria Women’s Sexual Assault Centre (WSAC).  

While in Rwanda we will be celebrating the opening of a school for girls and have the chance to meet the girls who will be attending the school.  I have no doubt that this experience will inspire me to continue working to improve the lives of girls and women in my community and abroad.  


I cannot express how grateful I am to my friends, family, clients, colleagues and especially my forever-guy Chris, for helping me reach my goals.  I am absolutely over the moon with excitement and gratitude for the Because I am a Girl trip to Rwanda.... THANK YOU SMARTWATER! 

I leave tomorrow, flying to Toronto for the night, then we will attend two live appearances on television before travelling to the airport to begin our trip to Rwanda!  I hear we’re travelling by Limo to the airport - SNAP! :)


I have a feeling the next 12 days are going to change my life forever... I can’t stop smiling just thinking about it.  As a winner in the smartgirls challenge, I hope that I can inspire others to make a difference in their communities.  All of this... the marathon, raising $20,000 for WSAC, designing tshirts, holding a fashion show, receiving  provincial and national awards, and now a trip to Africa.... has happened in less than 365 days.  Inspired yet?

“BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE IN THE WORLD.”

To follow our travel updates on Smartwater’s Facebook page, or via the Because I am a Girl Blog visit:

www.smartwater.ca
www.becauseiamagirl.ca

I will also be tweeting (@spicecreative), Facebooking (www.facebook.com/spicecreative), and blogging about my adventures at www.canadachristy.com

On May 4, 2011 Spice Creative is holding a Spa night and Fashion Fundraiser at the Fairmont Willow Stream Spa to raise awareness and resources for the Victoria Women’s Sexual Assault Centre (WSAC).  At the event, t-shirts designed by Spice Creative and custom styled by Victoria designer Marcie Leblanc of LeBlanc Boutique will be unveiled by local celebrities; including the Victoria Highlanders FC Women’s team and Radio personalities Brian Bailey and Danny the Intern from 107.3 Kool FM. 

The event will promote self-care, offering guests mini spa treatments, courtesy of Fairmont Willow Stream Spa, light refreshments, a silent auction – and even a fortuneteller who will be taking donations for the Women’s sexual assault centre in exchange for her services! Reserving tickets in advance is recommended as the event is expected to sell out. Tickets are $30 and available to reserve in person or by calling the Willow Stream Spa, 250-995-4650.  

The event comes after Christy Smith, founder of Spice Creative, raised over $20,000 to benefit the WSAC by running the Royal Victoria ½ Marathon on October 10, 2010. “The fundraising success and positive support I have received, combined with the number of women who privately thanked me for coming forward as a survivor, fueled my motivation to keep going.” says Smith.

Smith calls the t-shirt campaign “Shhh!” and hopes it will create a sustainable revenue stream for the Victoria Women’s Sexual Assault Centre while sending a powerful message: 1 in 3 women are sexually assaulted.  1 in 4 survivors never tell anyone about it.  Help us break the silence. 


The t-shirt design uses birds to symbolize freedom while Shhh! represents the silence many female victims endure when keeping their pain a secret. 1 in 3 women survive sexual assault, and 1 in 3 birds on the shirt are coloured to symbolize this. The white birds represent the 1 in 4 survivors who will never tell anyone or reach out for help. Statistics prove that survivors of sexual violence are not alone; however often victims feel isolated or scared to get help to change their future. The flock of birds inside the t-shirt symbolizes women in a ‘flock’ who are affected to help show survivors they are not alone.  The inside of the tshirts will be unveiled the evening of May 4th at the official launch.

“Shhh! This is not just a t-shirt, it’s a movement.” Says Smith.  The shirts have been designed to be trendy and wearable, while drawing attention to an important issue and encouraging positive change. The design includes a link to the Shhh! Facebook site (www.facebook.com/1in3women) used as a platform to continue raising awareness and resources for issues surrounding sexual assault.

Want to get involved?  HERE IS WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP:
1.  Like our Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/1in3women
2.  Come to the Shhh! Launch party May 4th 7pm-9pm at Fairmont 
     Empress Willow Stream Spa.  Call 250-995-4650 to reserve tickets 
3.  Buy a Shhh! Tshirt:  Available at LeBlanc Boutique (2 locations in 
 Victoria on Johnson st. and in Market Square)
4.  Participate in the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event in Bastion Square on
     May 14th  www.walkamilevictoria.com
5.  Contact the WSAC to donate or volunteer!

2011 - The Chinese zodiac says it’s the year of the Rabbit.  Would that be a lucky rabbit?  Or perhaps, a magic one?  Either way, sounds like 2011 is shaping up to be even more FABULOUS than 2010.  

Hard to believe almost 4 months have passed since our last blog update!  I suppose blog-neglect can be the by-product of the success of completing a 1/2 marathon in 1:51:20, raising over $20,000 for the Women’s Sexual Assault Centre, keeping up with the day-to-day awesomeness of Spice Creative, taking a month off to enjoy a trip to Maui and time with friends and family over the holidays, and a special 2 night NYE stay at the Fairmont Empress in Victoria!  Needless to say... we’ve been a little too busy for bloggin. 

First things first - THE RUN.  It was epic.  I could not get over the support 
I received from friends, family, colleagues, and perfect strangers who expressed their admiration, respect, and cheerleading by way of kind words, donations, high fives and victory beers.  I got the whole thing on tape (Thanks to Aclara Promotions) and I hope to release footage as soon as its edited (3 hours running is actually less entertaining to watch than one would expect) And... last, but not least, to one INCREDIBLY special friend .... THANK YOU for running beside me every step of the way- 

I couldn’t have done it without you!  (single tear...... WHAT? Goulet.)  

The fundraising for the Women’s Sexual Assault Centre (WSAC) has continued over the holiday season via “Christy’s Holiday Campaign,” which has raised an additional $30,000 brining the total raised to $50,000 to date!  Moreover, the Victoria Highlanders Women’s team has expressed their support to the Centre, and aim to play a game in support this season.  


Spring will mark the launch of the Spice Creative SHH! T-shirt launch - a project to raise even more resources and awareness to help survivors of sexual violence. We have nailed down the preliminary design, and hope to be taking pre-orders as early as March - stay tuned!!

We are thrilled to be working with some brand new clients to launch this year.  Welcome to Access Records who will soon be getting a spicy new website, and Congrats to Fireside Grill, whose sales have skyrocketed by over 40% since we started working with them last summer on a Times Colonist print campaign, POS material, a website, and E-marketing.  

Time for the ever-pressing New Year’s Resolutions.....

1. BALANCE - Avoid burnout, live healthy, LOVE work AND life
2. SIMPLICITY - Remove clutter from life, its not needed, wastes time.
3. ADVENTURE -  Visit somewhere AMAZING this year

 Oh... and of course... update the old blogski more than once every quarter!  (Preferably monthly).




Well folks, I think its time to hit the gym...  Gotta get in touch with my AWESOME friend Amy Allen, from DOWNdawg Yoga to get my sweat on sweatshop style again too!  Can’t backpedal on resolution #1 before February even arrives!   Wising you all a very happy, healthy, and FABULOUS 2011 filled with everything awesome, of course. 




HOLLA!

The Royal Victoria half-marathon on October 10th inspired Christy Smith, Top Banana at Spice Creative, to push past her comfort zone on a multitude of levels; fitness and otherwise.  Smith, who had never run more than 10km before training, set a goal of raising $10,000 for the Victoria Women’s Sexual Assault Centre by 10-10-10 (Oct. 10, 2010).  She launched her campaign just over one week ago, leveraging online social networks, both personal and business, to surpass the goal with $11,364 in donations to date!  

Smith wrote a letter on the Women’s Sexual Assault Centre marathon fundraising site, and shared the link through e-mail, Facebook and Twitter. Using only social networking resources, she exposed her life changing experiences as a client of the Women’s Sexual Assault Centre and relayed the desperate need for increased resources.  “I would not be the person I am today without the tools, advice, and compassion I received from the Women’s Sexual Assault Centre during the most difficult time of my life,” said Smith.  “I saw first hand how badly the Centre needs resources; my name was on a wait list for over a year. The trickling effects of sexual assault in our society are astonishing; 1 in 3 women are sexually assaulted, and 1 in 4 of those women will NEVER tell anyone." Smith sheds light on the challenges 1 in 3 women face, and the struggle to break the silence about sexual violence.  

“At first, I felt intimidated sharing my fundraising letter,” says Smith.  “Although I have a brave face today, coming forward was a big step. Once I e-mailed the letter and posted it on Facebook, the supportive comments, emails, phone calls and donations began rolling in!”  Among the support, Christy has received e-mails and donations from complete strangers who have read her story and commended her efforts. Despite the Centre’s minimal resources, results like these suggest the issue is dear to many hearts.  “I think putting my face to the issue has raised eyebrows. Sexual assault seems to be a ‘taboo’ subject that is not often discussed openly, despite its prevalence in our society,” says Smith.  “I hope the energy invested and resources raised will make a difference in our community and provide inspiration for other women who have experienced sexual assault.”

Moving forward, graphic designer Christy Smith plans to team with talented local fashion designer Marcie LeBlanc of LeBlanc Boutique to design and produce a fashion-forward, cause marketing campaign to benefit the Assault Centre.  The campaign, called “Shhhh..,” seeks to raise awareness for women choosing to break the silence, and will include information on common “Misconceptions” surrounding the topic of sexual violence against women.  Smith has past experience in fashion philanthropy as the co-founder of the “OUR Campaign,’ selling inspiring t-shirts to benefit Our Place homeless shelter in downtown Victoria. 

In existence since 1982, The Women’s Sexual Assault Centre has a small staff base, and relies heavily on volunteer support.  The centre acts as a liaison with individuals and available community level services. Smith is confident more can be done, especially with the cooperation of the public and local business community in Victoria.  To donate to Christy Smith’s half marathon fundraising efforts click Donate NOW!  

Is summer REALLY coming to an end?!  Hard to believe things somehow managed to get even more CRAZY since the last time I had a chance to update the Spice of Life Blog!  Recently, Spice travelled to Prince Rupert, BC with photographer Heath Moffatt to perform Creative Direction on a photo shoot of the hotel.  The short trip was BUSY, but well worth it! 


In addition, Spice recently teamed up with local video marketing guru Chris Ruffell from Aclara Promotions to produce a short video for Westhills Langford Days Parade weekend.  Not only was Aclara able to produce the video under challenging circumstances and in short order, but they also did a FANTASTIC JOB!  Check it out on SpiceTube, and see for yourself!
Below, I have included a poem I noticed on a friend’s wall today... There were a number of things that stood out for me in this, so I figured I’d share my new daily mantra.  I will sign off now, with the poem attached as my final farewell - Keep it real everyone, Love from, CJ Smith Esq., Top Banana, Spice Creative. 

Desiderata: A Poem for a Way of Life

Go placidly amid the noise, and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.  As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons.

Speak your truth quietly, and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story.  Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others you may become vain, and bitter; for always there will be greater, and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what true virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection.  Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity, and disenchantment it is perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the council of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings.

Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.


Therefore be at peace with god, whatever you conceive HIM to be, and whatever your labours and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.

Be careful. Strive to be happy.

–  Max Ehrmann

Things are going AWESOME - as per usual at the Spice Creative office- and I’m on Cloud Nine.  Crazy how quickly June flew by... I suppose having two weeks off for a holiday helped kill some time!


Things are really ramping up for the summer, and I’m working on some exciting new projects that will make for some great updates in the near future- stay tuned!!  


I have been spending some time over the past month going to DownDAWG Yoga at Base Lounge Studio on Broad st.  IT IS SOOO AWESOME!  Best workout ever- and sooo much fun doing Yoga to hip hop music, which also features special guest DJ Rowan spinning LIVE at some classes.  AWESOME!  Mondays at 5:30pm for anyone who wants to go- check out their Facebook Group!

Better yet, DownDAWG is the newest client of Spice Creative!  Recently the genius behind Hip Hop Yoga, Amy Chayko-Allen, and I combined forces to take over the world.... well, maybe just take over the world of yoga marketing in Victoria.... to start.  In exchange, Spice Creative will have some assistance in reaching a healthier balance.  I am working with Amy to develop a custom exercise routine I can easily fit into my daily-hectic-life and still obtain the results I want.  It will incorporate going to DownDAWG Yoga, as well as improve my running abilities for another goal I have set for myself... details coming soon!  

Even more exciting news, is that I have added a BUNCH of new clients in addition to DownDAWG the past month!  :-)  I am thrilled to be working with Uplands Golf Club on some upcoming 1/4 pg ads in the TC to promote a GREAT deal they have on couples membership, and I have also recently worked with Chateau Victoria Hotel to update some brochures for Vista 18 and Clive’s Classic Lounge.  Have a look at the Spice Creative Portfolio for examples of these pieces - coming soon!


The season is wrapping up with the Victoria Highlanders and its almost time for playoffs already!  Only 2 teams will make the final cut, and it comes down to the game they are playing Saturday July 3rd at 7pm against Portland.  If you’re free, head to Bear Mountain Stadium located next to City Centre Park in Langford, and CHEER THEM ON!! 

Things at Westhills are still crazy as ever, and houses are selling FAST!  Even though I am on the site often to look at the progress, I am always blown away with the speed they can move at!! WOW.  They are selling houses now that will complete before Christmas... do they ever sleep!? 

Well I guess I should get back to work... it’s Canada Day today, so

HAPPY CANADA DAY!

Looking forward to enjoying some ME time on this “holiday” after my work is done, and hoping to catch the fireworks tonight!  Thanks for reading my blog, and until next time... Keep it real.

WOW. Another month has flown by... crazy how quickly time flies.  I must be doing what I love!  Things are still busy as ever around here, and the Spice Creative vision is being pieced together day by day.  

Tomorrow  I am taking a break from the sizzle, and jetting to Maui!  I’m pretty excited to have a break from the craziness... I will have my laptop with me (I’d have separation anxiety if I went without it) and it will be a test for me not to dive into working under the shade of a palm tree... The good news? Free wifi all the way to the beach.  

There has been some serious Spring Cleaning around the Spice Creative office... Absolutely every nook and cranny has been organized, and processes have been put in place to help with efficiency.  Thanks to Recreated Spaces coming in to help speed up the process, it was a whole new office over the course of the weekend!  

Speaking of which, I have recently teamed up with Sterling Financial Accounting Services who will be working alongside the back-end of my business to ensure I’m not wanting to lose my mind when tax season rolls around.  It’s a whole new ball game now that Spice is incorporated! F.U.N. town.  But we know that Sterling Financial has got our back– they won the Chamber of Commerce Best New Business Award, so they’re kind of a big deal!  


Well... it’s 4:37am and I’ve still got a couple things to do before I can try and catch a few hours sleep.  T-12 hours until we will be checked into our flight!! YAY!! May the rest and relaxation officially.......... BEGIN.

Spring continues to bounce GREAT opportunities to Spice Creative!  Recently, Spice added the best soccer team in town to our portfolio– The Victoria Highlanders!  Spice Creative worked with Keith Dagg consulting to design a full page newspaper ad, and two subsequent smaller versions for the Season opener for the Victoria Highlanders May 8th.  Romeo’s restaurant has partnered with the team to host “Pink on the Pitch,” a soccer game on May 8th at 7pm, where the players will wear pink jerseys that will be auctioned off after the game at victoriahighlanders.com/auction. Check out the Ad design in “Our Flavour,” and for those of you living in Victoria, come to the game with me!! You can get tickets ONLINE from the Highlanders website, or at the box office outside Bear Mountain Stadium on Langford Parkway.  Hope to see you there!

Life is also becoming more balanced at Spice Creative!  The exercise regiment has commenced once again, and recently I was introduced to BellyFit, an exercise/dance class with movements inspired by Bollywood, Belly Dance, and African Dance! FUN! I also experimented with a class that sounded right up my ally; Hip Hop Yoga.  All I can say is, I didn’t think a blend of two of my favourite things could hurt so much the next day.  

Only 29 more days until Spice Creative is MAUI BOUND!! It’s great being so busy with lots of exciting projects, cause it helps pass the time quickly until take-off... Very much looking forward to some fun in the sun! :)

Speaking of which, I think I’ll wrap this up now and let the weekend begin!