Recap of Society of Grownups Event

We must say, we love presenting the up-and-coming in Boston! And (you heard it here first), The Society of Grownups will change the financial attitude and responsibility of young adults in Boston and beyond!  We all know that the subject of personal finances is an intimidating one.  Whether or not you understand your credit, financial guidance is important information for you now, and arguably, more so for your future.

The Society of Grownups is a learning initiative put on by Mass Mutual, so you know the information is legit. With these "professional grownups," as they call themselves, as your guide, you learn how to get your financial footing from curated financial experts in a relaxed environment. No stuffy suits here, a modern inviting space on convenient Beacon Street location hosts group classes, individual planning sessions and even social networking events.

We will be sure to catch their events in the coming weeks, these people know how to put together an impressive event!  Last night, we attended their launch party at Barcelona down the street from their office, and sure loved the appetizers, beverages and laughs from Shrewsbury's own Mike Birbiglia.

We can only imagine the longevity of this movement, and can already see our bright financial futures with their assistance!  Be sure to check out their event calendar and read more about their services for more information.

Now (even if you're nervous) go be a grownup, like us!

- Meredith


A huge thank-you for admission to the launch event by LaunchSquad!  Photos from SoGU website and author's own.

Daily Read: The Workher

You know we love posting about female entrepreneurs following their passions in our "Who's That Gal" Series.  Well, today's daily read is essentially a sister from another mister (and continent).  I came across The Workher via pinterest, and Sydney gal Laura Douglas appropriately dubs her blog "A survival guide for the young working woman."  Her "Inspiring Women" posts are similar to WTG with a sweet Aussie vibe.  

Cameron, Suzanne and I are lucky enough to enjoy where we work, but one can never stop growing, and The Workher is a great resource for this encouragement.  I also like how she directs content to Gen Y readers, peer advice is something we can learn a lot from!  We think that this young blog is just starting to blossom.  You heard it here first!

Some noteworthy posts from The Workher for your perusal:

-Playing to Your Strengths

-Anxiety at work

-Ways to Stand Out at Work

- Meredith

Discussion Questions for 'Lean In' By Sheryl Sandberg

'

1

About a year ago, Sheryl Sandberg's Lean In was making headlines in every major news outlet. Its funny, because though the book is well written and throught provoking, the topic of women in the workplace is far from a new issue. So why did this book cause such a firestorm? Lets discuss.

1. Give the book a letter grade and explain.

2. After reading Lean In, why do you think women only make $.77 for every dollar made by a man?

3. Have you ever negotiated a pay raise? If not, what's holding you back?

4. How are older and younger generations of women different in your workplace?

5. Did you find any flaws in Sandberg's arguments throughout the book?

6. Do you have someone in your field that you'd consider a mentor? Do you serve as a mentor for a younger woman?

7. Has reading this book had any impact on your office behavior or outlook?

8. Is "ambitious" a positive way to describe someone - or negative?

9. Sandberg focuses on the phrase "done is better than perfect." Is this a motto you see yourself incorporating into your career?

If you liked the book and found Sandberg's advice helpful, I highly suggest checking out the Lean In organization's website - it is updated frequently with career advice and negotiation tutorials!

Week of March 24

1

S P R I N G

Finally!!!!! Even though its not thaaaat warm yet, it may be time to start stocking up on sandals, sunglasses, and sunscreen. And, eeeek, maybe its also time to do a little spring cleaning? Here is some help to get that process started:

6 Ways to Declutter Your Life

7 Easy DIY Home Cleaning Products

12 Awesome Websites for Selling & Swapping Old Clothes

10 Zero Waste Tips for a Simplified Life

Oh, and ladies, don't forget to do your taxes!

M U S I C

So much is going on in Boston's music scene. After discovering Bearstronaut at We Are Music in February, the JUGs are hooked on their "tank top pop" sound. The awesome news is that they are having a show tomorrow night at TT and the Bears and tickets are only $9!

Also, keep your eyes peeled for tickets to the Hall & Oates show at the Blue Hills Bank Pavilion (formerly the Bank of America Pavilion) this June. It is sure to be an epic show.

JUGs fav Lana Del Rey is also playing a show soon. You can find her at the House of Blues on May 6th. 

N E T W O R K

If you're on the job hunt, or just need some inspiration, there are a bunch of great networking events happening around this week. The BOS Lady Project is hosting a game of "networking bingo" at Whiskey Priest tomorrow night. This event should be great for those who have a little trouble coming out of their shell.

On Wednesday, Lux & Concord is hosting cocktails, shopping, and mingling at Cyntha Rowley on Newbury St. This might be the perfect time to pick up a cocktail dress for wedding season.

If you're into sports, maybe the #SBWeek Boston Sports Business Networking event on Tuesday is more your speed. 

E A T S

This is the second week of Dine Out Boston! The JUGs are planning to check out Capital Grille, but there are tons of other options on the list. Did you go out last week? If so, would you recommend that restaurant?

We also can't wait to check out the South End's new hotspot, Merrill & Co. - gotta love a good raw bar!

W H A T ? !

By now you've all heard that Kimye is the cover of Vogue's April issue. Vom.

Luckily, there are also some good things going on in the world. Like, how these are probably the last few weeks you'll ever have to take a cab because the T will soon run until 3 am! And that Pharrell is now a warrior for eco-fasion. And that we can FINALLY buy a pair of white jeans! Life. is. good.

Have a great week!
-Cameron

Week of March 3

Its finally March! Spring is JUST around the corner (we hope)!

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

Did you all see the Oscars last night? Ellen did a fab job hosting as usual, and it was great to see our fav stars decked out in their finest. I particularly loved Cate Blanchett's dress. Lupita's sky blue gown also looked gorg against her skin. Did you have any favorites of the night?

G R E E N

Eco-themed events are happening left & right this week! Most importantly, the NESEA Building Energy Conference and Trade Show is Tuesday - Thursday in the Seaport. I am pumped to see the EPA's Gina McCarthy speak and the conference. Also, on Tuesday is this month's meeting of the Boston Area Sustainability Group in Kendall Sq. The topic of the month is food systems - should be an informative and thought provoking event. Finally, on Saturday, our favorite cosmetics & body shop, Follain, is holding a Meet the Maker event with featured brand Shamanuti.

A R O U N D  T O W N

At some point before May, it is essential to get to the MFA to see the museum's much-buzzed-about Boston Loves Impressionism exhibit. Once it gets warm out, a museum will seem less appealing, so we suggest going now while being indoors is still preferable!

On Thursday evening, one of our favorite boutiques, Shake the Tree, is hosting a Cocktail Party Fundraiser for the Friends of Maiti Nepal. Free massages, cocktails, and appetizers? Count us in!

But if that sounds to low key for you, check out the Deep Eddy Cranberry Launch Party, which is also on Thursday at Kings. Should be a great way to get a head start on the weekend.

P L A N  A H E A D

St. Patrick's Day is right around the corner .... maybe its time to tell your boss that you'll be out "sick" on March 17, since the epic Southie celebration is on the 16th.

Dine Out Boston (formerly known as Restaurant Week) starts on March 16 as well! Yum, I can't wait to make some reservations at restaurants I normally couldn't afford.

Have a great week!

- Cameron

BOS Lady Project Launch

Recently, the JUGs checked out the launch of a new ladies-only networking group, the BOS Lady Project. We met at WorkBar in Central Sq. to sip wine and hear some fabulous speakers, including State Rep. Mary Grant, Folu Akinkuotu, and Loren Raye. They shared career insights and how Boston inspires and shapes them. And these great stories (and networking) are what we can expect more of from the BOS Lady Project in the future. We're looking forward to their upcoming events!

- Cameron

Networking Event with BASG and NEWIEE

1

Ok business gals, time to get your network on! We are thrilled to be attending next week's meeting of Boston Area Sustainability Group so we can mingle, network, and listen to a great panel, featuring:

• Ann Brewster Weeks, Senior Counsel, Legal Director at Clean Air Task Force
• Erica Mattison, Legislative Director, Environmental League of MA
• Lea Reynolds, SeniorPolicy Analyst, M.J. Bradley & Associates, LLC
• Steve Long, Director of Government Relations, The Nature Conservancy

The event is to take place on February 4, 2014 at 6pm. A drink and snacks are included in the (very affordable) ticket price. REGISTER HERE.

Hope to see you there,

Cameron

The Week of January 20th

print available via Auro Bowman on etsy

H O L I D A Z E

Hopefully many of you have today off and are catching up on sleep, skiing, or using today to re-organize. The MFA is free today, so its the perfect time to get out and experience some culture. Plus, its the LAST day of the John Singer Sargent Water Color Exhibit (which is AMAZING)! If you've already seen the water colors and are looking for something new to check out, the Green Patriot Poster Exhibit just went up at the Design Museum Boston.

B U S Y  B E E

The JUGs love to keep busy by attending local events around the city. Luckily, there are tons of cool things going on. We are excited to attend the kickoff event for the BOSLady Project on Thursday - tickets are still available (wine included in ticket price)! Then, this weekend, we are gonna get our shop on with Emily of Shell Chic'd at Free People in Harvard Square. Also, mark your calendars now for the We Are Music fest on Feb. 1. I am already jamming out to Bearstronaut and Escort to get pumped up!

F I T N E S S

How we doing on those New Years Resolutions, ya'll? Yeah, me too. Get re-inspired with some helpful tips from around the web:

7 Steps to Fool-Proof Fitness

Fitness That Fits: The Who, What, When, and Where of Exercise

How to Get Back to the Gym

8 Pro Tips for Working Out in the New Year

Have a great week!

- Cameron

The Week of December 2

via

Welcome back!  We hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving holiday!  If you were away, be sure to catch up on our posts last week to see what you missed (gift guide for the guys, editor lust list, vol 1, Hippie Chic at MFA, December playlist and the latest true confession)!  Here are the happenings for the upcoming week:


C E L E B R I T Y
The JUGs remember Paul Walker who tragically died on Saturday, such a stud.

Jenna Lyons, always fashion forward, tells us how to layer the right way this winter.

This video still has me in hysterics along with other bromance videos.  Plus, I love anything with JT & Samberg.

Someone finally made an honest trailer for Home Alone, 20 years later, but accurate for this classic.

Because, like every year in the last five or so years, you just can't look away...


F I T N E S S
Yours truly are hosting a unique event next week, on Monday the 9th.  Register for free (!) and join us in working off those Thanksgiving calories in BollyX, Boston's newest workout!  There are only a limited number of tickets left, so don't miss out, especially if you're a Boston blogger!

Frog Pond in the Common reopened this weekend.  Time to lace up those skates and hit the ice!


L O C A L
Speaking of Boston bloggers, Suzanne, Cameron and I are psyched to attend the Holiday Meet & Greet event at Warehouse, a venue we've been wanting to try, especially after seeing it on this list.  It's bound to be a good time tomorrow night!

Whether you live in or outside of the city, Mayor Menino is offering two free hours of parking for the remaining Saturdays of the year to support city businesses in holiday shopping.

Holiday favorite, Boston Ballet's The Nutcracker, premiered this weekend and runs through December 29th.  If you have not seen it before, you have to put it on your Boston bucket list.  I'd recommend an evening show over a Saturday matinee... don't forget the kid factor.  Once you've seen the original, cross the river to see Somerville's infamous Slutcracker show.  Who knows...you may be sitting next to the JUGs at an upcoming performance!

Movember may have ended this weekend, but did you hear?  The beard of David Ortiz sold on eBay for over $10K!

Finally, someone documenting Hotties on the T (they do exist!).


S H O P P I N G
Since Mondays following a long weekend tend to be a bit rough, let's focus on today being Cyber Monday.  There are SO many deals out there, it's tough to know where to start!  Our favorite gals Molly & Sally of A Piece of Toast have everyone covered between small and big businesses and those brand-specific items that are on your loved one's wishlist (like mine).  Read their thorough round-up here.  Kelly has also compiled quite a summary to check out here.

Be sure to tweet us with any other Cyber Monday deals you'd like us to share!

Yes, this seems to be the future of shopping.


Have a great week!

- Meredith

Week of October 28

1

Can you believe its already the end of October? The JUGs gals are already searching pinterest for some good Thanksgiving recipes! EEEEEK! Anyway, here is the breakdown of everything you need to know this week. (Besides the world series - all I have to say about that is GET BEARD!)

S P O O K T A C U L A R

Its Halloween on Thursday! To be honest, I'm not super motivated about dressing up this year. Although, I think it would be pretty awesome (not to mention easy) to dress up as Coach Bill Belichick. For those who haven't quite decided on a costume yet either, here are some important things to keep in mind. There are Halloween parties going on all across the city, but a serious suggestion from 5 years of downtown Boston Halloween experience: sign up for something ahead of time - otherwise the lines can be brutal. And, if you are diehard into Halloween, and haven't ever spent the holiday in Salem, you have to go. It is a must-do experience. 

C A R E E R  G A L S

Tonight is the first annual New England Women in Energy and the Environment Autumn Extravaganza which should be a blast. It is a networking event for gals of all ages in that field (and its....OPEN BAR!) Tickets are available here - or at the door. There are also quite a few tech events going on this week for you computer gals.

F A L L  B A C K

Don't forget to change your alarm on Sunday - its Daylight Savings! If the time change is making you feel weird, this amazing video is sure to make you feel even weirder. On another note, its time to finish William Landay's Defending Jacob because we'll be kicking off November with a new book club book (Monuments Men)

Have a great week and GO SOX!

- Cameron

Daily Read: Boston Eco

Nope, its not a blog. Or magazine. Or even a website. BostonEco is an online community that uses facebook and twitter to grow sustainability initiatives. I subscribe to these feeds because it is the most all-encompassing green-themed outlet in the city. Following BostonEco is the best way to find out about upcoming events and connect to social entrepreneurs in the city.

BostonEco was founded by Janet Morgenstern Passani in 2009 in an effort to bring together information from all of Boston's green companies and organizations - it is a MUST follow for all socially-aware gals!

- Cameron

Warby Parker Meridian Launch Party: We Wear Sunglasses (& Glasses) at Night

On June 26th, the JUGs ventured over to the Warby Parker showroom on Newbury St. in order to celebrate the launch of the new Meridian Collection. The party was attended by some of our favorite bloggers, so it was fun to sip champs and mingle, and, of course, meet new bloggers. 



 

The party featured some of our favorite things: cupcakes, gourmet cheeses, local beer, and stylish one-for-one sunglasses! The best part was trying on the Meridian Collection, which are super-chic affordable aviators.

   

Thanks so much to Brian for some the fab photos! bannmedia.com

We're at ALT in NYC!

The day is finally here!  Today we are the much anticipated blogging conference, Altitude Summit.  ALTSummit is based out of Salt Lake City, Utah, and runs various events throughout the year in multiple cities.  After reading about ALT via big-time bloggers over the years, we were lucky enough to snag tickets this winter (still in shock about that)!

We are fully caffeinated, have business cards and LePens/notebooks in hand so and are off to network!  Needless to say, we have a very fun and very full day ahead of us!

Here is today's agenda, and we will get to hear some of our favorite blogs such as Design*Sponge (her book is THE coffee table book to own) and Little Green Notebook (I cannot wait for future before/after posts on her new house)!

Any last-minute conference suggestions for us?  Questions we should ask Martha Stewart since we'll be at her brand headquarters?

- Meredith

Recap: Young Women in Digital Marketing & Mingling

1

Earlier this week the three of us JUGs co-authors, and another network-savvy friend of ours went to the Young Women in Digital Marketing & Mingling Event in the Back Bay. It felt good to be out in the Back Bay neighborhood supporting businesses that lost revenue during last week’s tragedy. We gathered at Sonise on Newbury St. and sipped on cocktails and snacked on candy (candy bar courtesy of Eventbrite!).  After some casual networking, the hostesses introduced themselves:

Melanie Cohn, Digital Account Manager - GY&K Antler, @socialmel, I Love Love

Nicole Troelstrup, Online marketing & PR, @sidneycolie, The Content Cookbook

Next, three guest speakers spoke to the group about successful marketing campaigns - and how to publicize an event with a very small budget. In particular, the JUGs were intrigued by the guerilla marketing tactics - I mean chalk spray paint graffiti sounds awesome! All three speakers spoke of the power of twitter as a free advertising tool. They each used twitter to gain support for different types of successful initiatives in the Boston area. It was inspiring to hear stories of local social media campaigns that really worked.
The night's speakers included:


Sara Steele-Rogers: Boston Community + Marketing Manager, Eventbrite. @BriteBoston

Becky Brackett: Marketing Associate, Boston Center For Adult Education. @becky_brackett

Elizabeth Dobrska: Marketing & Creative Coordinator, Animal Rescue League of Boston. @dobrska

It was great to meet other Boston based bloggers and young women interested in the field of online marketing. We made some great connections and are looking forward to the next Young Women in Digital meetup!

The Mint Party

This weekend, join Boston's young professionals at the Mint Party at TRADE. TRADE, named Boston’s Best New Restaurant of 2012 by Boston Magazine and the Improper Bostonian, is a natural, open and lively space in a groundbreaking LEED Gold property. The event will feature Boston’s own DJ Deja, spinning today’s biggest hits in her signature creative style.

Come enjoy a breathtaking space, good company and delicious food from TRADE as we celebrate Boston’s efforts in becoming a green leader. Sponsor the Mint Party and join NGE for a special VIP reception in TRADE’s private room with fellow sponsors, NGE’s Board of Directors and some of Boston’s most renowned restaurateurs.

NGE’s Mint Party is Boston’s premier green energy event. Help us celebrate the re-launch of NGE and begin a tradition of celebrating sustainability in Boston for years to come. Click here to purchase tickets.

Want an Eco-chic career? Get a Mentor!

Do you have or want a career in the energy sector? environmental policy? green business? If so there is an open mentorship opportunity with New England Women in Energy and the Environment. The program is perfect for Boston women at any stage of their career that want to share their experiences and gain a new perspective. It is a great opportunity, I mean, according to Forbes, mentorships "kick ass."To participate in the program, simply fill out this brief survey and you’ll be matched with a group of women that best suit your interests and mentorship needs.

Since I am interested in spreading the message of sustainability through green living (via my pet project Boston Green Blog), I signed up for the NEWIEE mentorship program. I am excited to get to know our city’s green professionals across all sectors and stages of life. I hope to share some of my mentee/mentor experiences on JUGs as the program begins.

- Cameron

1/2

Get Networking with Boston Green Drinks

photo

Boston gals are a lot of things: stylish, business savvy, fun, and of course eco-friendly. Even though we don’t all work for environmental companies or nonprofits, we still recycle, buy organic, and try to keep up with local eco events. One great way to stay in the know is by attending Boston Green Drinks. BGD is a monthly networking group open to anyone with an interest in sustainability. The group meets on the last Tuesday of each month and draws people from many different industries all looking to gain something different from BGD: career development, job opportunities, publicizing events/projects, and casual conversation. Each meeting draws about 50 people. Its a great way to meet new people and learn about what's going on in our beautiful city.

The next gathering of Boston Green Drinks is this Tuesday, March 26, 2013 at Whiskey Priest at 6pm. Boston Green Drinks is always free, but registration is required beforehand to guarantee the space at the bar. Hope to see all you JUGs there!

- Cameron

Recap: Designing Digital Content

Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of attending an event hosted by the Boston division of Fashion Group International (FGI).  Do you gals know about FGI?  The Boston sector is a branch of a larger organization established in the 1920s.  It was started by women in the fashion industry looking to launch a platform in order to solidify one's role throughout the business world.  You may be familiar with a few founding FGI members, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and global beauty brand founder Elizabeth Arden.  FGI has clearly grown over the years and has since built a national presence.  Today, Diane Von Furstenberg and Anna Wintour are infamous members on the board.

This past Tuesday morning, the non-profit put on an intimate breakfast event at Copley Place about digital content and suggestions on promoting one's brand.  It was applicable for entrepreneurs and bloggers alike.  The event was moderated by Nash Yacoub, from PR powerhouse Succarra (has a showroom in Beacon Hill!) and featured commentary from blogger and Alex & Ani PR professional Sabrina Strelitz and getprivy.com founder Ben Jabbawy.  Topics spanned from personal organization, customer outreach and something most millenials can relate to, the balance of doing it all!

After meeting other attendees ("Hi" Marissa!) and just a few minutes soaking in the interesting commentary, I plan on joining FGI this year.  We all crave worldwide trend updates and should want to be a part of the ever-growing fashion world here in Boston.  NYC and LA can't have all of the attention!  Even if you don't join, be on the lookout for FGI's event announcements so you can still attend those offered to the public!

- Meredith

Us...Featured on The Everygirl!

photo

One of our daily reads, The Everygirl, is based in Chicago, IL (a favorite city of JUGs) and launched last February.  This lifestyle website is the product of friends with a similar voice joining forces...sound familiar?!  Co-founders Alaina and Danielle have done wonders as inspiration for all looking for a little guidance, whether it be in areas of personal finance, career, gift guides or the latest paleo recipe!  Their team provides practical advice and suggestions for attainable goals, something that every girl truly needs.

While browsing a few weeks back during a morning latte and blog catch-up session, a feature was noticed and seemed like the perfect opportunity to contribute.  To celebrate their anniversary week, just one year young, The Everygirl team asked how they have inspired us.  Of course, as a trio with a similar vision, we wanted them to know that they absolutely did!

(One week later...)  

If you haven't already seen our announcement on twitter, our submission was featured on The Everygirl this morning!  We are sure they were inundated with responses and are beyond thrilled that are submission was chosen.  We hope to one day meet the co-founders, in their city or ours!

Be sure to add TEG to your e-reader and explore the multifaceted platform you just can't help but return to check out daily to apply everyday to your [Everygirl] life.  We will be spending time reading other submissions, so fellow readers/bloggers, please feel free to reach out and introduce yourselves!  We plan to do the same!

Thank you again, fellow gals at TEG!
xx

- Meredith

Recap: A Stylish Evening with Mr. & Mrs. Elements of Style

Andrew & Erin Gates 

The vibe at Twelve Chairs set the mood for a good discussion on style.

Last night, the JUGs co-authors (Meredith, Suzanne, and I) went to a fabulous event featuring one of our blog-idols, Erin Gates of Elements of Style. The event was hosted by Boston Design Salon at Twelve Chairs shop in the up-and-coming Seaport District. Not only were we thrilled to hear Erin speak, we were also excited to meet the other ladies of the Boston Design Salon, which is an all female monthly networking group of design professionals. Since starting Boston Green Blog three years ago, I've been to quite a few  networking events in Boston, but this was my first one focused on design. Last night's audience included quite a range of experience; there were wedding photographers, interior designers, graphic designers, shop owners, scarf/handbag designers and more. It was so cool to be immersed in such a diverse group of artists and businesswomen.

Erin and her husband Andrew spoke about "selling" a brand without being pushy or overly salesman-like. The couple have very different perspectives on what makes a successful startup business, and it was great to hear the well rounded he said/she said discussion and debate. Seeing how the two meld their perspectives was a great way to start Valentines week! Here are the top five entrepreneurial sales tips we took away from the event:

1. Be honest in order to gain your (potential) client's trust.

2. Don't read sales books, read business and marketing books.

3. Know your audience.

4. Find a balance of humility and confidence.

5. Be good at what you do; become an expert. 

Checking out the Boston Design Salon was a great way to kick-off the new Just Us Gals brand! We look forward to attending more events and bringing more of Boston's style & culture to you!

- Cameron