Kathy Davis

A Splash of Summer

2009-07-09T11:18:00.006-04:00

These blues and greens speak to me of lazy summer days and cool breezes.
Just what my spirit craves this time of year!

Seacloth by Lee Jofa

Other fun fabric for Summer:

Beach Party, Watermark, Splash on Seacloth by Lee Jofa

My Appearance on the 10 Show!

2009-06-24T09:06:00.028-04:00

Click here to see video

On Friday, June 19, I had the opportunity to visit WCAU-TV (NBC) in Philadelphia to be interviewed about my latest book on the 10! Show – a popular weekday news and talk show program that airs in the Philadelphia area.

That’s me after my appearance with one of my favorite Philadelphia news personalities, Bill Henley! We talked about how my book, Scatter Joy: Living, Giving and Creating A Life You Love, became a reality where I shared my personal story about pursing a dream to create a life I love, along with stories of other “joy-scatterers” I write about in my new book.

Dedicated to my Dad

2009-06-21T10:54:00.011-04:00

In honor of Father's Day, my post for today is from my Scatter Joy book,

excerpted from the chapter entitled "The Joy of Nature". This chapter was
inspired by my father, Frank Consaley. While my dad is no longer with us, he
is ever present in my heart. I celebrate him with the warmest memories
possible on this Father's Day.
I may have received my devotion to nature from my dad. Truly a
man of the earth, my father loved to be outdoors. A landscaper
by trade, he labored his whole life doing nursery work—planting
trees and gardens, trimming shrubbery, and raising plants.

My mother has always been devoted to her faith. She attended church
every week and taught Sunday school “religiously” for many
years. My dad, on the other hand, preferred to do his worshipping in
the outdoors. His faith, while he did not talk about it much, was
expressed in the care he gave to his trees, shrubs, flowers, and the
beauty of the natural world.

My dad was a quiet man with a sly sense of humor, and his love of
nature was second only to his love for his family. He kept bantam
chickens as a hobby, and he loved feeding and watching birds in the
backyard. When he retired from his landscaping job, he continued
to raise small plants in his own nursery, often cultivating cuttings
from his own shrubs. He took real pride in the forsythia, arborvitae,
hydrangea, azaleas, and boxwood plants he raised. Setting his plants
out by our well-traveled road, he began selling them (practically giving them away)
to passersby. A small business was born! Dad was so proud of his shrubs,
and he took great pleasure when his customers returned to rave
about how happy they were with his beautiful and thriving plants.

If that’s not scattering joy, I don’t know what is.

My love of flowers—a love that may be evident in my artwork!—

is something I surely inherited from my dad. Although I enjoy
cutting and bringing fresh bouquets indoors, my dad couldn’t
bear doing that. He saw this as shortening the lives of the flowers,
and he much preferred seeing them in their natural setting. That
difference of opinion caused a bit of friction for us. I can recall
planting gladiola bulbs with him each year, and I couldn’t wait
to cut them into bouquets. I’d have to sneak them by my dad,
though, in order to bring them into the house!

My father passed away in the spring of 2001—at the very peak

of the most beautiful season of the year, when so many of his
flowering plants were in bloom. Today, those plants continue to
grow and bloom in the same beautiful and giving spirit with which
they came into being.

More Photo Shoot

2009-06-18T09:30:00.003-04:00

What an exciting day! Wardrobe. Hair styling. Make-up. The works! Let me explain…

This September, More magazine will be including a feature story about me and my company in their “Second Acts” section. I’m very excited to see the piece in print!

A few weeks ago the magazine’s wonderful photography team, including its hair and make-up stylists, visited my home studio where they conducted a day-long photography session for images to be published along with article. Lots of primping and posing and smiling throughout the day. What a fun experience!

Be on the lookout for the article in More’s September issue!

Highlights from the Stationery Show

2009-06-15T12:54:00.004-04:00

We had a great show this year at the National Stationery Show and were so pleased with the way American Greetings displayed our brand. It was very exciting to see it all come together.

Eye Candy at the Licensing Show!

2009-06-11T09:24:00.001-04:00

There are always lots of interesting sites at the Licensing Show, and
because of its Vegas location this year, the quotient may have increased.
This group was a part of the "Thunder Down Under" booth. These Aussies
perform a male review on the Las Vegas strip, and they were at the show to
license their brand.

At the urging of my team, I reluctantly posed for this photo-op. (They made
me do it, I swear! Tee-Hee)

Art as Performance!

2009-06-09T10:58:00.006-04:00

One of the most entertaining sights at the Licensing Show was David Garibaldi, artist in action!

A former graffiti artist, David turned his background and influences into an amazing and motivational career.
After we watched him produce a huge painting in his energetic style to infectious music, a couple of our KDS team members stayed behind to meet David and buy his book.

Check out David in his element!

To view more videos click here.

Don't forget to look up!

2009-06-08T10:22:00.005-04:00

I was mesmerized by the color, pattern, light and artistry of glass artist Chihuly's ceiling installation in Las Vegas' Bellagio hotel! A visit to the Licensing Show took me to Las Vegas’ adult wonderland. A gambler I’m not, but as an artist, I hit the jackpot with visual overload from the wild architecture and art installations.

Chihuly is credited with establishing the blown glass art form as an exceptional medium for installation art. His organic shapes and color catch the light and create a world like no other.

Press: U.S News & World Report

2009-06-02T09:27:00.006-04:00

Kathy Davis on Flourishing Amid Recession

May 28, 2009 10:16 AM ET | Kimberly Palmer

Kathy Davis, the designer and author of Scatter Joy: Living, Giving and Creating a Life You Love, says that the toughest times can serve as inspiration for pursuing business dreams. She also shares her own money-saving, and spending, tips.

What gave you the confidence to launch your own brand?

My confidence built up in me slowly over many years. After my divorce, when faced with a tough decision of what to do next in my life, I “gave myself permission” to put my desires to the test. I found through designing greeting cards and gifts I could flourish with creative freedom and the ability to express myself in a way that translated to others. While in those days I didn’t think what I was doing was “launching a brand,” the cumulative efforts of the work I was doing eventually caused me to think more like a brand – another eye-opening realization in my journey!

Many people would like to earn money through their passion, as you did. What advice do you have for them?

Believe in yourself, hone your skills and recognize your strengths, work hard, meet deadlines and persevere, take small steps, and always have a Plan B. Lastly, live and work by the Golden Rule.

You talk about how your brother is good with numbers. When it came to running your business, were you naturally good at the financial part, or how did you teach yourself?

Finance is still not my strength by any means, but I do have good general business instincts. In the formative years of my business, I’d wake up extra early to focus on my income and expenditures. I kept careful records and grew slowly and organically. When I could, I hired a bookkeeper. Eventually my brother joined my business to become our finance director. What is key is recognizing those aspects of your business that are not your strengths and entrusting experts to advise in those areas.

Can we apply your tips to living in the moment when worrying about money? What exercise would you recommend?

I think so. Awareness is key. Being aware of how each potential expense affects the big picture is critical. Pennies saved turn into dollars. Yet, in business, you have to be confident enough to invest in your growth. Spending money to make money is often a necessity.

Your parents learned frugality from the Great Depression. Did you pick up any of their habits?

Absolutely! I’m the “Left-over Queen!” I’ve learned when eating out to divide my meal to go home with a doggie bag. However, I’m a sucker when it comes to clothes and shoes.

Sometimes, you say a splurge is worth it - for example buying flowers.

Let’s face it – it feels good to buy something new for yourself now and then. Flowers may be considered a small luxury since their beauty is fleeting, but the enjoyment they bring for a relatively small investment can pay dividends to the spirit! Investing a little extra in your well-being always pays off in the long run.

You've experienced two recessions, including this one. Do you have any specific strategies for surviving (and thriving)?

Sometimes we need to hunker down and secure our sails until the storms pass. But, that doesn’t mean we stop what we do well, or panic that our returns aren’t as great as they once were. Keep putting one foot in front of the other, keep the faith in the big picture and use your strengths wisely. Recognize while the economy isn’t as strong as it could be, it may a good time to invest in certain areas. There are always new ways to do things, so think of how you can reinvest your strengths in new ways. Regardless, always look for that silver lining and know that the sun will eventually shine again.

So Inspiring: Women Entrepreneurs and Personality

2009-06-01T09:40:00.005-04:00

A friend sent me a link to an awesome ebook about women entrepreneurs and personality. Very inspiring!

Stories in Color: Citron Paint

2009-05-28T08:00:00.001-04:00

While browsing through a home décor magazine recently, I saw a reference to
Citron, a small company that produces interior paint colors.
Such yummy colors! Can't wait until I have a wall that needs painting. And
what a delicious website.

I particularly enjoyed reading the section "Stories in Color", where
designer and founder C.J. describes the inspiration behind her wonderfully
named creations.

Not only does C.J. have a knack for color, she has a way with words, too!

#35 magic hour ™
As the sun slides down in Tucson, the light gets sideways and golden halos transform the desert. Ordinary trees become glowing sculptures and mountains become epic. The drab curtain of the day is parted, and you can glimpse the beauty that's always there. My family calls it magic hour.

A great concept. Way to go, C.J. Let's hear it for another awesome female
entrepreneur!

(images from Citron Paint)

MAD

2009-05-27T08:15:00.001-04:00

I spent a couple of hours exploring the newly opened Museum of Art and Design at Columbus Circle in NYC. It was filled with interesting jewelry, ceramics, and various works of art. I was excited to find jewelry from our friend Thomas Mann among many other talented contemporary artists. I found these marvelous stained glass windows by Judith Schaechter, and treated myself to some retail therapy in the gift shop with a new (soon to be favorite) bracelet made by metalsmith artist Pamela Bosco. I'll be sharing some other finds with you in future blog posts.

Central Park

2009-05-26T10:09:00.008-04:00

After 3 days inside NYC's monstrous Javits Center at the National Stationary Show, I took a much needed afternoon playing hooky in Central Park. It was a glorious pre-summer day filled jazz, sunbathing and buttercups. As I walked along with my drippy frozen mango bar, I snapped photos of all ages, species and even statues enjoying a delicious laid back afternoon!

A Dose of Inspiration

2009-05-26T08:00:00.002-04:00

Snail Mail Delivers!

2009-05-25T08:00:00.001-04:00

After who knows how many days on end of junk mail and bills greeting me daily, when I recently peered into my mailbox, the delight of seeing actual handwriting on an envelope awakened my senses and alleviated the boredom usually associated with my USPS relationship of late.

The bright spring green envelope signaled something special, (sender, Melissa’s hand-lettering, doodles and thoughtful sentiment are certain to delight the most apathetic observer) and I was reminded just how nice it is to receive personal correspondence in these days of e-mail, texting and twitter.

So, long live snail mail, letter-writing and , of course, greeting cards! Why not scatter some joy today and share a bit of yourself with someone you care about? You will make their stop at the mailbox an unexpected pleasure the way Melissa did for me!

Whimsy

2009-05-21T10:21:00.000-04:00

I’m a big fan of the use of folly in design. Nothing like a little surprise when going through life’s hum-drum tasks. These little sprinkles of joy make me smile when form and function unite to produce the unexpected.

Alessi, an Italian design firm who presents the work of Michael Graves, Frank Gehry, Richard Meier and many others, is a master at this. Great design with a some joy scattered in!

(images from Alessi)

A Dose of Inspiration

2009-05-19T11:17:00.003-04:00

A wish for you on this beautiful Tuesday.

Inspiration: The Art of Cy Twombly

2009-05-18T09:56:00.010-04:00

Cy (Sigh!) Twombly

One of my favorite contemporary artists is Cy Twombly. His incredibly expressive, calligraphically inspired paintings make me itch to let loose on a huge canvas!

I’m hoping to catch his latest exhibition at the Art Institute of Chicago, which coincides with the opening of their new Modern Wing. The exhibit runs from May 16th through September 13th.

Click the image below to see a video of his work. I love the title!

Twigs Transformed

2009-05-14T09:23:00.010-04:00

The Morris Arboretum in nearby Chestnut Hill, PA is always a delight to
visit, with beautiful gardens, a fernery, gallery shows and sculpture
installations. On Saturday, my friend, Lorraine and I decided to check out
the current installation. Artist-in-residence, Patrick Dougherty, completed
a masterpiece he created of twigs and sticks. Called "The Summer Palace",
this whimsical wonder transported me to another time and place. Awesome.

May Flowers

2009-05-12T09:12:00.008-04:00

What an eyeful of inspiration! Came across these multi-hued bouquets on a
beautiful spring day outing in Chestnut Hill, PA. Robertson's Florists works
their magic to delight the senses!

Color Study

2009-05-11T09:43:00.007-04:00

After a long string of rainy days, we were blessed with a beautiful weekend.
The rain made way for many beautiful shades of green, as seen here at the
Morris Arboretum. Painters can only dream of such lush palettes!

Women Artists

2009-05-08T09:13:00.004-04:00

I received the link for this movie trailer "Who Does She Think She Is" from a friend and wanted to share it with you in time for Mother’s Day. While the movie’s focus is on women artists, most moms can relate to the struggle to balance family and professional lives. While I haven’t had a chance to check out the movie, the trailer has surely captured my interest!

Don’t forget Mom this week!

2009-05-05T09:36:00.012-04:00

May brings several things each year that we can count on – flowers (yea!), the New York Stationery Show (May17th-20th), and Mother’s Day (this Sunday, May 10th!). Hopefully, you have already selected your Mother’s Day cards, but, if not, I have a few tips for you in picking just the right card for your mom, wife, friend or loved one!

There is a vast array of Mother’s Day cards in the market, from extravagant and beautiful to clever and funny. When I create the writing and art for Mother’s Day cards, I consider all the different types of mothers and the different sorts of relationships people have with their moms. Moms have lots of similarities, but no two are exactly the same. When I compose greeting card verse, I think about my own Mom – and my kids, too. I write what I think my mom would want to hear as well as what I’d love to hear from my children. Then I think about all the other moms I know and I try to imagine what things are important to them and what messages might be meaningful to them.

But, I believe the two most important things all moms want to hear is that they are loved and appreciated.

In selecting a greeting card, look for one that reflects your mom and the kind of relationship you share with her. Sometimes it’s easier to express your feelings with a card than it is in person. Take advantage of this opportunity to give her some joy! If she loves flowers and warm sentiment, look for a card with those characteristics. If she prefers a more lighthearted style, find a card that will bring a smile to her face. Just keep it real for the two of you. You can find cards with special touches, like ribbons or charms that make a nice keepsake.

What your mother really wants is a little piece of you, so don’t forget to add a few words of your own to make your card more personal. Now, don’t be scared! You don’t need to be a Shakespeare to add a few words to express your feelings. Just relax, keep it real and uncontrived and speak from your heart. Don’t worry about editing yourself. Your mother will appreciate the fact that you went to the extra effort.

If you are still stuck, here are some suggestions:

- “I’m so grateful to have a mom like you!”
- “Thanks for all the things you do!”
- “Thanks for helping me to believe in myself”
- “You rock, Mom!”
- “You bake the best chocolate chip cookies (or whatever her specialty is) of any mom I know!”
- “I have such happy memories of the time we _______________”
- “I’ll never forget how much you helped me when_____________. Thanks for always being there for me!”
- “Your hugs always made me feel so loved. They still do.”

Even changing the expected “Love, ______” to “I love, you, Mom!” will be noticed and appreciated. Little things can make a big difference!

Happy Mother’s Day... to you… and to your mom!

To find a Kathy Davis Retailer near you, click here.
To view the new Mother's Day Collection by Kathy Davis, click here .

2009-05-04T10:15:00.006-04:00

I am so proud of our association with American Greetings. Recently some of
my team and I were in Cleveland for our one year anniversary meeting. While
there, we snapped some pictures of the amazing retail set-up in the Carlton
Retail store showcasing the Spring line of Kathy Davis products and the four
foot section of Kathy Davis cards. The retail merchandise team at American
Greetings outdid themselves with a dynamic storefront presentation!

One of the highlights for me was the new Kathy Davis stationery products,
including this group of boxed notes! The colors are bright and
the products perfect for any occasion.

The folks at AG had also created a 20 foot high sign in their "Town Square"
showcasing the Kathy Davis brand. I was elated to see the brand
exposure American Greetings is giving to the Kathy Davis brand!

Please look for all of the Kathy Davis products at an American
Greetings/Carlton Retail store near you! And while there, check out the
Kathy Davis Mother's Day products - just in time for the Sunday, May 10th
big day!!

Scatter Joy Podcast: Joy of Family

2009-04-30T10:03:00.006-04:00

In honor of Mother’s Day in May, I have another podcast from my Scatter Joy book to share with you. Being a mom myself, I certainly recognize the incredible rewards as well as the challenges that motherhood can present. The chapter I am reading, Joy of Family, recounts the time my daughter, Katie, was going through her adolescent phase, and taking us along for the ride! As you will hear, the comfort and love in our family and our ‘Saturday Lunch’ ritual, helped us all weather the storms that came our way. Family is, indeed, one of our greatest joys. Being in the sandwich generation, I am blessed to have both my mother and my daughter and son to celebrate this Mother’s Day.

Enjoy – and have a Happy Mother’s Day!