Clevelander of the Month: June

Think about a Renaissance woman and Tiffany Lardomita comes to mind. Determined to help the people of Cleveland and the world over to live their best lives, Tiffany does it all. From web design, to blogging, to motivational speaking there is nothing this girl can't do! While most girls dance around to songs like "She Got Her Own" and "Miss Independent" knowing full well they need to sit down, Tiffany is one woman who could proudly stand up. Read on but I must warn you: you will absolutely love Tiffany when you're done!


1. It seems that you do it all! What is it that motivates you to take on so much?

I have varied interests and I find that my creativity flourishes when I have many outlets for it. All of my endeavors fall under the umbrella of information services, so like an investor, I diversify.

2. How did you become involved in web design?

Ha! By accident. I paid a web designer to build a site to promote my motivational speaking business. He avoided my phone calls for weeks so I had to track him down and threaten him with litigation. He showed me a 2-page website that was garbage at which point I decided to do it myself…even though I had never designed a site.

My first attempt at a website was really pretty, but it failed because I had no clue how to get traffic and market online. I then learned how to build websites that work FOR your business (so that you don't end up working for your website). In the process, I taught myself HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Flash, SEO, and SEM. I’ve never thought of myself as a “tech” person, but I’ve found that with the right tools (SBICleveland.com), it's easier than you think.

I can teach anyone how to build a web business that generates real cash. My contact info can be found on my website at TiffanyLardomita.com.

3. In addition to web design, you also write. How did you get into writing?

I had always kept a journal or diary until the day that my mom read it when I was a teenager. She ruined it for me. J

In 2006, my online writing started when I committed to blogging every day for 30 days on MySpace. I have quite a few subscribers and their comments are always inspiring. Since then, I’ve never looked back. The currency online is information, and as an Infopreneur with 7 websites, I realized that my writing translated into money. You become a writer real quick when you see dollar signs.

4. And finally, motivational speaking! How did you get into that and where are some of the places you have spoken?

For the last decade, I've worked as a recruiter/presenter for three colleges in Ohio and Michigan. I have spoken about "life after graduation" to seniors at every high school in Cleveland, Akron, and Canton. I enjoy informing and entertaining people, and I wanted to make a career out of it --- without having to promote a college. Now I speak at various events around the city on topics ranging from "finding self-confidence" to "how to market to web-savvy customers". I love performing and enjoy contributing to the success of others.

5. What are some upcoming projects you're working on?

My passion is personal development, which includes health, relationships, career, money, habits, and spirituality. I think that when we focus on these things, they bring us happiness and success.

Instead of preparing all young people for college - which 50% of them are NOT ready/cut out for and which doesn’t guarantee happiness and success - I think we should help people learn how to manage these six areas of their lives. I am raising money to build a brick-and-mortar learning center for that purpose… to help people discover their passions and create rich and fulfilling lives.

In the short-term, I am working on fun relationship seminar parties for single, smart, and sexy people in Cleveland who are tired of the bar scene, but want a way to meet someone(s) special. Details coming soon.

6. With all that you do, how in the world do you make time for yourself?

Luckily, my work is play. It might as well be called "hobbies I get paid to do". If I were to make a list of my hobbies it would include: reading, speaking, thinking, writing, and creating. I've built my Information Consulting business around what I love.

7. What are some of your biggest sources of inspiration?

I guess I'm inspired by the little things that happen in my life. I can find humor in most situations, and since I'm open and real, I have no problem sharing my failures and successes with people.

As a relationship writer (firstloveyou.com) and single woman, I can tell you that my dating life definitely inspires me. I write about the men I meet and how they fail to create any attraction with me. I also write about relationship issues that my friends are going through. (I never share real names.)

8. What does the future hold for Tiffany?

Write a couple of books. Build my own learning center. Live in a cool loft apartment downtown. Take trips to secluded beaches all over the world. Have fun and enjoy life. I’m easy to please. Ha!

9. What is your favorite thing about Cleveland?

The Metroparks! We are surrounded by so much free, natural beauty from the waterfalls at Bedford Reservation to the trails at Rocky River Park. We are very lucky to live here.

10. What advice do you have for other young people trying to make it in Cleveland?

Don't complain that "the city doesn't have this" or "the people here don't do that". This area is ripe for YOUR innovation and creativity. If you notice something missing from the area, don't waste your energy criticizing. Take your cue from the universe and step up and make it happen. It all begins with you.

by Ciara

CLEVELANDER OF THE MONTH: MAY

...A Few Good Men...

"There are no good men in Cleveland." We've all heard that sentiment before. But this Clevelander of the Month easily debunks that myth. That's because for the month of May we give you not one, not two, but three good men who are simply the cream of the crop. No seriously, they are known as Cream of the Crop! Amir Foster, Jaffre (Free) Jackson and Jeff Kirkman III make up COTC, a trio of entertainment promoters that strive to deliver the best in Cleveland's entertainment scene. From Swanky Sundays to Cues and Cocktails these men know how to have a good time (and make good use of alliteration apparently). We talked to Mr. Foster himself to allow you to get to know this month's Clevelander(s)...

How and when was COTC formed? What is the group's mission?
The group was formed when Jeff and myself decided to throw a collaborative birthday party. We had initially agreed that if it turned out to be a success, we would consider promoting parties on a regular basis. After two or three parties we came to the conclusion that it would be a good idea to bring in another person. We then met with Jaffre, who had some fresh ideas, and previous experience with promoting... We felt like it was a good fit... Now we are here today...Our mission is short but to the point... Its just to provide quality sources of entertainment, for the professional, stylish, and mature individual. It's well known that this group DOES exist in Cleveland, there is just a shortage of preferable events, and we are trying to do our part to fill that gap... We like to think of it as joining sexy and fun. The type of environments where you can come out fly, looking good, but still get out on the dance floor (or a stage if you are feeling frisky), and just enjoy yourself without feeling out of place.


What exactly is it that makes you the "cream of the crop?
Hmmm... Well... You will just have to ask around about that! Know what I mean? Ha ha. j/k... For starters, we are three intelligent, honest, hard working young men. That in and of itself would separate us from most in our age range. But beyond that, I believe its the drive, and the vision that separates us. We had a very clear picture of what we wanted to accomplish, and had the drive to not only talk about it, but actually put those ideas into action. Also, when you think about it, we along with our patrons, just do not fit in everywhere, or with everybody. We don't just listen to whats on BET, and we don't conduct ourselves in the same manner as everyone else. So as a result, we naturally separate ourselves. Cream Of The Crop doesn't just represent us it also represents our clientele as well.


How were your past events with the infamous titles inspired? i.e. Swanky Sunday
Once we had an idea of the type of event we wanted, we just started out throwing around words. A little help from thesaurus.com and we came up with two titles. "The soiree" was the first choice, and "Swanky Sunday" was the second. It ended up that there was already an upcoming event using soiree in the title, so we went with plan B. We think it worked out well for us.


What can one expect on any given Friday or Sunday walking into a COTC event?
One can expect that they will enjoy themselves that evening. We make it our mission to attempt to see that each of our guests are having a good time. The people will be professional, yet cool, and approachable at the same time. It's almost like you can go somewhere and have a good time, but the crowd is not that desirable. Or, go somewhere and have that crowd you want, but the fun factor is lacking. We just try to create that happy medium.


We know you guys like to throw a good party, but what else do you do in the city?
Actually, we have a few things in the pipeline. Right now we are working with a couple acts to put together some concerts that we are sure our patrons would love to see. Many more great things to come though.


Being so involved in Cleveland nightlife, what are some things you would like to see change on the scene?
Cleveland is still really segregated, and it is very apparent in the party scene. It would be nice if Cream Of The Crop or someone else could figure out a way to bring different races together on a regular. But that's an uphill battle.


What are some challenges you currently see facing promoters in Cleveland?
Lack of venues is a major issue in the Cleveland area. There is plenty of available space, but a number of places have either been closed down due to riff raff, or have a negative stigma attached to them. Makes it difficult to keep things different, and fresh.


What does the future hold for COTC?
I'm not exactly sure what the future holds. Although I do know that we will continue to look for and provide good sources of entertainment if for no other reason than... we like to kick it, and our friends do as well. So if no one else is going to step up to provide the type of events we appreciate, then we are just going to keep doing it ourselves.


Any advice for young men in Cleveland aspiring to do what you guys do?
I would say to think long and hard about that. I know it sounds glamorous, but it is a lot of hard work. And you may have to attend or host an event at some times when you just don't feel like it. Between planning, promoting, and hosting the events, its almost like a full time job. But... It is fun. And if someone is willing to put the work in, its usually well worth the effort.


Isn't Dollhouse your favorite female trio of promoters?
Dollhouse is my favorite trio of women period! Promoters, professionals, party goers, swimsuit models (possibly a new venture) or whatever the category may be Dollhouse is top of my list!!




by Ciara

CLEVELANDER OF THE MONTH: APRIL

ITS THAT TIME OF THE MONTH AGAIN....DOLLHOUSE PRESENTS TO YOU OUR APRIL CLEVELANDER, MS. ROBIN MONIQUE, OF POLISHED CLEVELAND!

Who and/or what inspired you to start Polished Cleveland? Give us some background info on Polished Cleveland and who Robin Monique really is.

Polished Cleveland Magazine was inspired by my personal experience as a recent college graduate learning to live in Cleveland as an adult. I initially bought into the perception that Cleveland did not have a strong young professional culture. My partner Christine Taylor and I spent a good six months reacquainting ourselves with Cleveland and learned that the city has a lot to offer any young professionals who want to be socially and civically engaged in the city. We wanted to provide a resource for our peers to help them create a productive and fulfilling life here and Polished Cleveland was born.
Helping 20somethings lay the foundation for adult life is a cause that’s very close to my heart. Prior to starting Polished, I went through a very difficult spell of depression which was spurred by “quarterlife crisis” issues. I had the degree, the apartment and the “good job,” but I wasn’t fulfilled because I had put together the life I was “supposed” to want rather than the life that would best fit Robin. So Polished is part of my overall mission to reach out to people like me who are just trying to get a handle on this grown up thing.

Has writing always been a preferred career choice for you?

I’ve been writing since I was nine years old! I’ve had jobs in higher education since graduating college, but no matter what I do from 9-5, I’m a writer first.

What would you say about your online magazine that makes it unique from other sites?

What makes Polished different from other sites is that we cater to the total person. We are going to tell you where to party, but we’re also going to tell you where to sign up for community service, where to see a good art exhibition, how to manage your finances and how politics affect your life. We want to help our readers become as well-rounded as possible.

What are your favorite 3 magazines (print or online) to read?

My all-time favorite print magazine is/was Honey Magazine. I hate that it’s out of print, because it spoke to hip, intelligent, sexy young women in a way that no other magazine has since. I also like Vibe and Giant Magazines.

Outside of Polished Cleveland, what else can we find on your plate of things to do?

I have my personal blog, The Life & Times of Robin Monique which features editorials on hip-hop, politics, relationships, pop culture, and my personal observations on life. I also blog for a site called Ladies Run the City, where I discuss my experiences overcoming major depressive disorder. I write fiction short stories and am developing ideas for a fiction novel, as well as working on my memoirs. I was recently added to the blog network at The Fresh Xpress, so my work will be featured there soon as well.

Who is your favorite writer of all time and why?

My favorite writer is Joan Morgan. She wrote one book, “When Chickenheads Come Home to Roost: My Life as a Hip-Hop Feminist” that blew me away because it showed me that there were intellectual women who loved hip-hop as much as I did. Morgan’s writing style was sassy, educated and wise and it definitely inspired me as an aspiring writer.

What advice would you give to young aspiring/ existing entrepreneurs?

I really encourage people find their business style and be true to it. As popular as the concept of a “hustler” may be, everyone is not a hustler and you don’t have to be in order to run a successful business. It’s better to build your business in a way that allows you to be you, than to imitate someone else’s model because it worked for them.

What resources did you use to help launch Polished Cleveland, leading to its success?

The most important resource in launching Polished Cleveland has been my network. I have been blessed to meet so many focused, positive people and their support and advice has contributed greatly to our success thus far at Polished. The internet helped me tremendously because I have come across so many like-minded individuals via social networking who have come on as writers (shout out to Dollhouse’s own Monisa Mason and Charron Hunter!). On top of that, I have the most awesome business partner in the world in Christine Taylor. We’ve been a team since our communications classes at Wilberforce University and our creative chemistry is off the chain.

If you had to use one sentence to convince a reader to check out Polished Cleveland, what would it be?

Polished Cleveland Magazine is the voice Cleveland’s new generation of movers and shakers, appealing to this audience’s youthful energy and maturing tastes.

Finish the following sentence: “When I write, I……….”

When I write, I speak my truth in hopes that my words encourage my readers to find and live their truth

WELL THERE YOU HAVE IT LADIES AND GENTS....ANOTHER CLEVELAND MOVER AND SHAKER THAT DOLLHOUSE IS GIVING A MAJOR KUDOS TO! CHECK MS. ROBIN MONIQUE AT WWW.POLISHEDCLEVELAND.COM. REMEMBER THAT YOU TOO CAN BE A LOCAL MOVER AND SHAKER. THE EQUATION IS A DREAM + SOME GOALS + A PLAN + ALOT OF ACTION=SUCCESS!

BY MONISA

Clevelander of the Month: March

Well, the moment that you all have been waiting for.......

THE CLEVELANDER OF THE MONTH IS.......PAUL SADLER JR!

As a Clevelander, when you first hear YBM, what do you think of? Hot? Fashionable? Making moves? All of the cool kids wear it? Maybe all of the above. No matter what you think of when you hear or see YBM, if you don’t live under a rock, then you know that YBM may just be one of the hottest clothing lines in the area, and if you don’t think so, just ask Day 26. Yea, that’s how hot it really is.

YBM, Young Business Men, was started by Cleveland’s own Paul Sadler Jr., while he was away in college at Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN. Along with some of his college friends, Sadler began the business with customized sneakers. Branching off from the sneakers, these young fellas decided to make shirts to match their shoes and Sadler tagged the name Young Business Men to it, not knowing that this name was going to take him a lot farther than what he expected. The shirts ended up taking off more so than the shoes, so they took the apparel idea and ran with it.

YBM is unique in its own way, making it a stand out from other local designers. Its creative hand painted style is a mixture of Brazilian Tribal art and Australian art. According to Sadler, “YBM is a mixture of different art designs; it will always be around because it is an art form, not a trend and not a fad.”

A businessman since the age of 5yrs old, Paul Sadler has sold newspapers in New York, worked for the Sun Press in Cleveland, started a candy store in Tennessee, managed Sunoco gas stations, has sold books with his father and currently is into real estate and in the process of opening a juice bar on the west side of Cleveland. Very goal oriented and focused, Sadler has been blessed to learn the game that we all know as entrepreneurship, at an early age, leading to his current success.

When asked about his favorite and least favorite current trends, Sadler named his top 3 favorites as the fitted (not tight) look that a lot of young men are rocking now, sneakers and the new colorful trends that are taking over the runways. As for his least favorite, this “Hater of the Month” had many styles/trends that he strongly disliked, and in the following order: 1) Sunglasses at night/in the club 2) Leggings (depending on how and where you wear them…and NOT in church ladies!) 3) male scarves 4) Mismatch outfits (how can someone say that they are expressing themselves when they never expressed themselves before?) and last but definitely not least 5) Sagging tight pants.

So what does it take to get to this level of success? “No cheating the game when it comes to business,” he says. Have a plan, stick to the plan and have capital.” Sadler explains that to make it, you have to have goals and not just dreams. “A goal is taking your dreams to the next level.” His formula for making it in the business world is as follows: Take your dream, set your goal, make the goal a plan, take the plan, get your capital, open up the business and create revenue. In the midst of building your goals, remember that you always have to be ready to fail. He states that many people cannot deal with a “No.”

Even though Paul Sadler has been blessed with many resources, his hard work didn’t pay off overnight. He emphasizes how important it is to use ALL of your resources. Even to this day, Paul is pulling every name out of the book. His sister, Z107.9’s own Bijou Star connected him with Day 26 and a good friend helped him with his appearance on MTV’s Sweet Sixteen as well, which led to opportunities with BET. Paul, after being turned down 3 times from Next’s manager, is finally making his way to the Next Clothing stores, making his debut on Friday March 6th.

With a team of about 5 people in Cleveland, but 20 altogether, YBM is definitely making its way to the top. With representation in major cities like, Charlotte, LA, Chicago, Nashville and Atlanta, YBM may be that name that Cleveland needs to gain back its credibility.

“It’s a truthful line, its one of a kind.” Custom made, wearable art, that’s going to be a collector’s art” and that’s from Paul himself.

You heard it first ladies and gents….so go and cop some YBM, rock it proud, rock it first and be one of the coolest kids in the city.

By Monisa

CLEVELANDER OF THE MONTH

Dollhouse is proud to introduce our new monthly posting of the "Clevelander of the Month." We will be showcasing one local trailblazer each month, beginning next month, highlighting their accomplishments and contribution to Cleveland and its surrounding areas. Dollhouse respects those individuals who takes a goal and really builds on it, turning it into an achievement and we would like to show you our love!

Every month, please stop by and check out our who's who in Cleveland. So who will be our very first "Clevelander of the Month".....Come back in March to check him or her out..........

And remember, Drive, courage and hard work will turn your dream into a reality. "Success is in the palm of EVERYONE's hand, but the question is, will YOU be the one to actually grasp it?"

By Monisa