#tsgboise

[tsgboiseidaho]

Sounds of... ONE HAUTE COOKiE

Erin and Theresa are TSG Boise members and owners of the sweetest little cookie shop, ONE HAUTE COOKiE. They make the most beautifully decorated cookies, cakes and treats for all sorts of different occasions from weddings to baby showers! While their business is sugar, and spice, and everything nice, their taste in music is a little on the wild side in the best way! Check out what keeps them cookin’ in this segment of “Sounds of.”

When you walk into Erin and Theresa’s cookie shop in Garden City, it smells like heaven! The counter is decorated in the cutest cookies and prettiest desserts you’ll ever see! But little do you know, while they’re decorating baby shower cookies in the back, they’re jamming to 2Pac and Ice Cube!

These ladies have a fun playlist with varying genres. They have a tasteful amount of 90’s rap and a satisfying selection of classic hits from Tom Petty and Guns N’ Roses. This just goes to show their diverse nature! They can create virtually any cookie design you can imagine, as well as sing along to any genre from modern R&B to Classic Rock.

Click here to listen to the sounds of ONE HAUTE COOKiE. We guarantee you’ll find at least one song from your favorite genre!

https://www.instagram.com/onehautecookie/?hl=en

Tell them Scout sent you!

~ Allie

[tsgboiseidaho]

Homeschooling Tips from an Experienced Multi-Tasking Mama

Our nation and local Treasure Valley community continue to face the unimaginable impact of Covid-19 and the resulting changes to all of our lives. We recently asked TSG Boise members to share the ways they’ve adjusted and are adapting through our #stayconnectedBOISE campaign. While the reality of homeschooling children is quite the adjustment to many right now, Volume 3 Member Anna Logan (Owner and Designer behind Flying China Tableware + Decor Rental), has over four years of experience. Below she generously shares her tips on how she manages to juggle a small business and day-to-day life all while homeschooling her two young children. 

1. WORK WITH WHAT YOU’VE GOT

Most stores are closed, but we still have Winco and Home Depot! Cooking and gardening are great tools to work with math and science. This week we planted seeds and measured and divided our garden boxes into sections. We also made rice krispy treats and cookies and dropped them off on our neighbors’ doorsteps. Cooking and yard work involve fractions, measuring, following directions, and working as a team.

2. INVOLVE YOUR KIDS IN ONE OF YOUR HOBBIES OR SKILLS 

I’m using this week to teach my nine and seven-year-old to use the washing machine and dryer. My husband builds motorcycles as a hobby and taught the kids how to rebuild the front forks on a dirt bike (he’s a lot more exciting than I am). But what do those things have to do with academics? In doing the laundry, my kids and I had conversations about temperature, cause and effect, and color mixing. In rebuilding the dirt bike, my husband talked about physics, the metric system, and the application of leverage. Whatever you are doing, there is always a way to connect it to meaningful ideas and experiences.

3. KEEP IT MINIMAL 

Do not even try and replicate a public school day. As schools begin to supply work, keep your intentional homeschool time to two or three hours per day at most (junior high and high school students will need more time depending on the type of classes they have). Minimizing burnout is more important than getting all the worksheets done. Believe me.

As we’re all sheltering in place, my biggest encouragement is for you to invite your kids into your daily life. Whatever you like to do (or have to do), have your children do it with you. It will take longer, but you will feel a huge connection with your kids. What they learn from you is invaluable and can’t be taught in school!

- ANNA LOGAN

--------------------

To learn more about Anna and Flying China Events (or to pick her brain on how to survive homeschooling ;) ) - be sure to visit her website or reach out on social media. Thank you Anna, we’re so thankful to stay connected with you during this unprecedented time. 

FLYING CHINA EVENTS WEBSITE

FLYING CHINA INSTAGRAM

FLYING CHINA FACEBOOK 

[tsgboiseidaho]

Transaction Tips with Murphy Business Sales

At TSG Boise our focus has always been to serve as small business advocates, supporting members as they navigate owning and operating their own business. For some owners, the conversation can eventually lead to selling their business. We sat down with our very own team of experts at Murphy Business Sales Boise (TSG Vol1/Vol2/Vol3 members) to discuss the process and the benefits of aligning with the right brokerage firm capable of coordinating all phases of a business transfer.

MURPHY BUSINESS SALES BOISE || Rodney R. Wolfe, Darrell Gustaveson, Sheila Spangler, Larry Halvorson, David Choate

The sale of any business, large or small, typically requires a team of at least 4 different business professionals (CPA/Accountant, Legal Professional, Investment Banker, Appraiser). This fact alone prevents a lot of business owners from even beginning the process. That is where Murphy Business Sales comes in. Aligning with a brokerage provides a seller with an expertly positioned and experienced intermediary capable of coordinating every step of the process. 

Below, they’ve shared the 7​ critical points any business owner should know before selling​ in order to achieve a successful, trouble-free transaction.

1. Validating a Realistic Sales Price 

Fair market value pricing is essential to the successful sale of a business. Brokerage firms ensure access to various industry professionals with extensive knowledge and the experience to accurately place a value on the business. 

2. Current Knowledge of the Marketplace

Brokerage intermediaries surround themselves with databases, search tools, industry reports and business contacts available only to them. Keeping up-to-date with current marketplace conditions is essential to determining the right time to place a business on the market.

3. Confidentiality is Essential

There are many issues that can affect the sales and profitability of the business if it’s introduced to the market prematurely. Customers, competitors, employees, vendors and creditors will have different reactions to finding out that your business is for sale. Confidentiality is critical and vital at all stages of the selling process, and is held in strict confidence by the brokerage intermediary. 

4. Expertise in Attracting and Securing Serious, Potential Buyers

Considering there a various types of buyers, intermediaries use effective and efficient search procedures to find and screen those that are best qualified to purchase a business, saving the business owner endless hours of screening.  

5. Pre-Arrange Lender Financing

The chances of a sale increase dramatically when securing a lender’s “Pre-Approval” of terms and sale price while actively marketing for a buyer.

6. Untangle Red Tape

A intermediary is an expert at alleviating potential pitfalls that can arise with permits, licenses, financing, agreements, leases, etc. where a business owner may not have the foresight or experience in these matters regarding selling a business.

7. Expert Negotiator

Steeped in knowledge about negotiating price and terms, the intermediary acts as the middle man and works to achieve ideal strategic and tactical financial goals without compromising the sellers position.

---------------------

Clients throughout the Treasure Valley continue to see the value in partnering with Murphy Business Sales, with first hand experience shared through the testimonials below.  

To learn more about Murphy Business Sales and contact the team in Boise, visit their website at https://murphybusiness.com/boise/ and be sure to tell them The Scout Guide sent you!

[tsgboiseidaho]

Augusto Fine Rugs + Lorelle Rau Landscape Foothill Collaboration

At The Scout Guide we often talk about the importance of remaining curious, seeking inspiration and being open to discovery within our own community. For the past two years we've watched a collaboration rooted in this belief unfold between TSG Boise members Anna Augusto and Lorelle Rau.  

Anna is the owner of Augusto Fine Rugs, a full service area rug design studio and showroom specializing in luxury carpets, rugs and custom specifications. With more than a decade of concentrated work in the area rug business, Anna works diligently to provide her clientele with rugs sourced from the most respected artisans across the globe. 

Lorelle is a contemporary collage artist, who uses cut paper and appropriated imagery to investigate concepts of nature and place. In her landscape series, Lorelle expresses the transformative qualities of nature, particularly the rich contours and textures of the mountains. As an avid hiker and camper, the experience and rawness of the natural world has always been an integral part of her creative process. 

Anna and Lorelle first met at the TSG Boise Volume 1 launch party in March of 2018. The concept of bridging Anna’s incredible eye and custom rug expertise with Lorelle’s artistic talent unfolded as they shared their mutual affinity for the landscape surrounding Boise. After a number of brainstorming sessions at Augusto Fine Rugs, Anna and Lorelle’s creative process fully took shape when they set out on a hiking adventure together.  

They started out on the easily-accessible Ridge to Rivers Trail System, hiking Sweet Connie Trail off of Bogus Basin Road. Throughout the afternoon they trekked several miles, gathering inspiration and source material through photography. Back in the studio, the two of them assessed their photographs and determined which textures and compositions would translate best into a rug. Lorelle created multiple cut paper collages which she translated into a simple, black and white line drawing using Adobe Photoshop. Once the line drawing was in hand, they met back at Anna's showroom and explored some of the rich fibers, textures, piles, and knots that were obtainable for the project. Next, they converted the drawing into a rug design software program, specifying every color and detail, considering fiber contents and knotting techniques in order to achieve the desired texture. 

Final Rug Rendering shown with Landscape Collage 

Once the final design was completed, Anna sent it off to be fabricated by skilled artisans at a weaving facility in Nepal. The final result is a stunning 4’ x 6’ work of art composed of sheep’s wool, undyed yak wool, and hemp.

Images of rug on the loom and final washing in Nepal

The finished product beautifully depicts the foothills and high desert landscape that frames our city. This piece will be on display and generously donated by Anna and Lorelle as an auction item at the 2020 Boise Art Museum Gala, held on March 7th. 

Close-up rug details alongside Foothill Landscape

To learn more about Augusto Fine Rugs and Lorelle Rau, please visit their websites listed below.

Augusto Fine Rugs

Lorelle Rau Studios

- Jaclyn

TSG Boise

[tsgboiseidaho]

Creating a Unique Holiday Tablescape with Maison Blue

With Christmas around the corner we turned to our friends at Maison Blue for some expert advice on creating a beautiful holiday table sure to welcome and wow guests during this festive season. Below, owners Alexandra and Rhonda outline 6 suggestions for filling the table with unique specialty items as well as pieces that may already be found in your home.

1. Layer layer layer 

Nothing creates a cozy environment quite like layers of luxe linens. This is a great way to pull from what you already have at home while adding a few new fresh pieces season after season. Below, we layered a linen runner alongside ruffled stripe placemats and a gathered napkin with substantial ring holders. All of these textures play nicely with the finish of your table to soften things up while adding visual interest.

2. Decorate each place setting 

While plates certainly serve as a functional element at mealtime, they also create a lovely space to display festive pieces prior to eating (like the actual holiday ornaments layered below). The wreaths add rich color and the stag ornament is a bold and eye-catching addition. (A thoughtful option is for each ornament to serve as the gift guests take home with them at the end of the evening)! 

3. Hidden treats 

Speaking of spoiling guests, another festive addition to the table is using something unexpected to hold sweet bites across the table. For example, the sleigh works perfectly filled with chocolates, but you could also use a vintage sugar bowl or even a gravy boat filled with mints (or more chocolate)!

4. Be creative 

As we've referenced above, unexpected elements can be fabulous conversation starters at a holiday table (and we're pretty obsessed with these festive little pewter salt and pepper shakers)!

5. Add height to the tablescape

We love the added visual interest that varying levels of height bring to a table. Below, we incorporated vintage candle holders with various candle heights along with festive trees to really give the table a wow factor. It's always wise to keep guests line of vision in mind, especially for seats directly across from one another.

6. Personalize with place cards 

The addition of place cards not only helps direct your guests it also provides another opportunity to add a bit of visual interest at each place setting. Consider everyday items to hold the card (ex. a cork, pinecone, a mini planted succulent or holiday greenery), or perhaps these proud pewter turkeys - certainly fitting for any holiday table!

To shop all of the items shown above, be sure to visit Maison Blue at 50 N 2nd St. Eagle, ID or online at www.maisonblue.com

Be sure to tell them the SCOUT sent you!

- Jaclyn 

[tsgboiseidaho]

Entryway Solutions w/ SOI BOI Design

Ever find yourself stuck with what to do in a challenging space like an entryway? It’s the first thing people notice when visiting your home, but often the most limited when it comes to space. Below, SOI BOI Design Team Shay O’Connor and Rita Howerton give us 3 fool-proof tips on how to make an impact in your entry. 

SOI BOI Tip #1

1) Mirrors can be your best friend in tight spaces and are a great way to trick the eye. A well-placed mirror can give the illusion of more square feet, height and even light. The key is to find an element that the mirror can reflect in that tight space (for example, we utilized the oversized prints from the adjacent wall in this particular space).  

SOI BOI Tip #2

Speaking of, don't shy away from incorporating oversized images or frames to make an impact. These additions can become a defining element in a small space and often bring together an overall design or color scheme. Now it goes without saying, if you're going BIG make sure you love it. This central piece really can set the tone for your entire space.

SOI BOI Tip #3

Texture texture texture (we love natural greenery, woven elements, and mixed metal finishes). These final touches in a small space can really bring everything together and make the space feel lived in.

To see more inspiration from SOI BOI, or to contact them for your own design consultation, be sure to visit their website below and tell them the SCOUT sent you!

SOI BOI

(all photos courtesy SOI BOI)

- Jaclyn

[tsgboiseidaho]

Fall Favorites - Local Hot Springs w/ Jenna King

When asked a favorite activity that allows her to (literally) soak up the crisp fall months in Boise, Jenna King of King & Co. Real Estate was quick to respond - it has to be an escape to unwind outdoors with friends at one of the many local area hot springs.

Check out her Top 3 below:

1. KIRKHAM HOT SPRINGS | 7658 ID-21 | LOWMAN

This legendary hot spot is tucked against the South Fork of the Payette River along the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway. The natural beauty of the area is on full display with various geothermal soaking pools and small streaming waterfalls. Located just 40 miles outside of Boise with a minimal $5 fee for campground parking, this gem is not to be missed. 

Photo credit: visitIdaho.org

2. THE SPRINGS | 3742 ID-21 | IDAHO CITY

This mountain hot springs retreat feels more like a spa oasis just 35 miles from Boise. Nestled in the Boise National Forest outside Idaho City, the experience includes a large communal geothermal pool, a large (and hotter) separate hot tub, along with private soaking tubs and spa bookings available. Food and drink service is also available poolside, as well as numerous complimentary locker room amenities. Reservations are required and recommended well in advance.

(Photo credit: https://www.themandagies.com/idaho-hot-springs/ - be sure to check out their travel + adventure blog for more area treasures)! 

3. BURGDORF HOT SPRINGS | 404 FRENCH CREEK | McCALL

Another rustic resort nestled in the mountains outside of McCall, Burgdorf Hot Springs mineral baths are available to both day guests and cabin guests staying at Burdorf.  During spring and summer months the resort is accessible to all vehicle traffic, however during winter months access is limited to snowmobiles. Day guest passes are $10 for adults (guests of Burgdorf are free)! 

Photo credit: Burgdorf Hot Springs 

Born and raised in Boise, TSG Member and local agent Jenna King not only knows what it takes to navigate a competitive real estate market, but also what makes living here in Idaho so special. To learn more, contact Jenna at KING & CO REAL ESTATE and be sure to tell her the SCOUT sent you!

- Jaclyn 

[tsgboiseidaho]

Getting to Know Diane Panetta of Growing Wild Greenhouse

We’re continuing our Volume 2 “Getting to Know” installment with DIANE PANETTA OF GROWING WILD GREENHOUSE. Panetta opened Growing Wild in 2017, a plant rental service for indoor and outdoor events (weddings, home staging, parties, conventions, party booths - you name it she’s done it)! Keep reading for more on Panetta, what inspires her, keeps her busy AND who is typically riding alongside during installation days.

JR: What inspired you to start your own business?

DP: I have always appreciated plants and the beauty and benefits they provide to the living world. Growing and renting beautiful, healthy plants allows me to share this with others. So many event spaces lack live greenery, and I wanted to change that. Being able to rent plants for short term occasions is an affordable way everyone can enjoy them without having to worry about keeping them alive or transporting them. This business is a perfect blend of organized science and chaotic creativity, mixed with just the right amount of social engagement for me. It is a lot of scheduled maintenance and physical labor, but it is also an art form for me. I’ve never been one for set schedules, paid vacation, and 9-5 jobs. I don’t do well sitting still for very long. I crave to be outside most of the time and have always have had jobs that honor that. This business is a collection of my passions, all under one greenhouse!

JR: What do you love most about your career?

DP: I love seeing people light up when they see the plants I bring them. I don’t think people realize how much they enjoy plants until they are introduced into a space where they weren’t before. To witness a noticeable and positive change in everyone when they’re around live plants is really gratifying. I love that I can provide that for others. I also love the learning! I am constantly amazed by the new plants I come across, the new connections I make, the new information that I retain as a result of this business. My curiosity in so many things has grown right along with my plants and my business.

JR: Tell us about one of your favorite recent projects?  

DP: One of my most favorite recent projects was decorating an airplane hangar at Gowen Field for a “surprise” wedding! Avery Elle Weddings organized an amazing event, connecting with several other local vendors to coordinate a wedding that was almost entirely donated (everything but the chairs) to a deserving Air Force couple. It felt great to join together with others in the community, and create an unforgettable venue for this couple who had no idea what they were walking into!

(photo credit: Radion Photography)

JR: Before you started your business, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?

DP: Oh boy. Probably the most interesting was running dog sled teams, and guiding dog sled tours outside of Steamboat. I had absolutely no clue what I was doing when I started, but had a lot of fun learning along the way!

JR: Any favorite words to live by?

“Let the beauty we love, be what we do. There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground.” -Rumi

“The cost of inaction is vast. Don’t go to your grave with your best work inside you. Choose to die empty.” -Todd Henry

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us.”  - Marianne Williamson (I came across this quote when I was 16, and have carried it with me ever since.If I could have lunch with anybody in the world, it would be this woman!)

JR: When you’re not working, you’re ____?

DP: Hopefully spending time with my horse in the foothills, enjoying some tacos at Madre Boutique Taqueria, catching up with friends on local trails/Greenbelt. 

JR: What’s on your desk (or in the Greenhouse) that you can’t live without?

DP: My dog, Chloe! She is my trusty sidekick. The best dog I could ever hope for. She is with me about 94.7% of the time, in the greenhouse, at gardening jobs, picking up and dropping off plants…you name it, she always wants to be included.

To contact Diane visit her website GROWING WILD GREENHOUSE and be sure to tell her THE SCOUT SENT YOU!

-Jaclyn