10 Ways to Find More Time in Your Schedule

Most of us would like to have just a little more time: how much more you could get done if you had just an extra hour or two a day? While I can’t magically transport you to Bajor, where they have 26-hour days, I can share a few tips that will help you to take control of your schedule and help to make it seem like you have a few extra hours.

1. Decline meetings. I don’t accept every meeting. If I don’t see real benefit resulting from my attendance, either for me or someone else, I decline the meeting. By only going to meetings you need to attend, you free up some time to do something productive.
2. Have effective meetings. Strive to have shorter, more effective meetings by being organized and always having a definitive end time. Spending a few minutes preparing for a meeting and send out an agenda and other materials in advance; it will mean that you get through the meeting faster, with less floundering around figuring out what you need to accomplish. I also try to keep people on track during the meeting and attempt to end on time or early when possible.
3. Schedule work. We all have certain tasks that require uninterrupted time where we can focus. For those activities, I try to free up big blocks of time on my calendar, and I schedule those tasks the same way that I would schedule a meeting, which allows me the time to work uninterrupted.
4. Schedule recreation. I also schedule my workouts just like any other meeting on my calendar. This has a couple of advantages. First, I get a reminder when it’s time to work out, and second, it discourages other people from scheduling over my workout and makes it more likely that I will be able to find the time for staying fit.
5. Take advantage of off-peak times. Try to schedule activities at times when you can do them in less time. When I need to drive to work (a 45- to 60-minute commute), I get up early to beat some of the traffic and schedule my workout after work, so that by the time I’m done exercising and ready to drive home, the traffic isn’t as heavy. I also try to avoid grocery shopping right after work or going to the bank at lunch.
6. Group and combine. Where possible, I take advantage of logical groupings to minimize travel time, such as scheduling afternoon meetings downtown when I know I need to be there for an evening event. I also try to combine meetings where possible, and I often meet with people for informal discussions at local tech events or prior to meetings. By combining meetings with meetups, I can get more done.
7. Be flexible. I try to be flexible with my schedule to maximize productivity. On days that I work from home, I start work at six or seven in the morning and then take a slightly longer lunch with a workout, which helps me start the afternoon refreshed. I also tend to move things around on my schedule and be flexible to take advantage of unexpected, but productive conversations with coworkers or to stay “in the zone” when I’m really being productive on a chunk of work.
8. Take breaks. When we get really busy, we tend to turn into workaholics and attempt to power through the work even when we aren’t being productive. While taking a break sounds like you will lose time, in many cases, it can help you get a new perspective on a difficult problem. A short walk can help, as can taking a break to accomplish something else, like running an errand or getting in a workout. After a little break, your brain will be refreshed and ready to be productive again.
9. Turn off the television. I used to watch a lot of television in the evenings until I realized I was spending too much time watching other people and not enough time experiencing my own life. I was surprised at how much time I had for hobbies, reading, fitness or even just getting a little work done in the evening when television wasn’t sucking hours out of my day.
10. Block out time for you. I block out my calendar from 4:30 to 5:00 every afternoon to give me a few minutes to reflect on the day, double-check my task list and wrap up any last-minute projects. In a past job where I often had back-to-back meetings all day, I used to block out my lunch hour just to give me time to eat! I know others who block off some time in the morning or afternoon to have time to take their kids to and from school. Think about what is important for you and make sure you find time in your schedule for what you want to do

Courtesy of Dawn Foster 

What an Honour - Amanda O'Reilly Wins 40 under 40 Award.

Amanda O’Reilly, founder of InStyle & Co which consists of three separate entities;Balance InStyle, Weddings InStyle; Events InStyle was awarded the Ottawa Business Journal Forty Under 40 Award this past Monday May 1st, 2011.

OBJ Article highlights the 2011 recipients and the criteria used to reach their decision.

“This year’s list of 40 recipients proves Ottawa has the talent, creativity and the ‘jazz’ that goes along with moving a city forward into a vibrant place to work and live. The city is alive and well,” said Michael Burnatowski, OCRI Entrepreneurship Centre manager and one of the panel of judges determining the awards.  The committee included Mr. Burnatowski, University of Ottawa Telfer EMBA director Terry Kulka, Ottawa Chamber of Commerce executive director Erin Kelly, CellWand Communications CEO Nick Quain, OBJ editor Peter Kovessy and OBJ publisher Michael Curran, who also chaired the process. The judges collectively spent around 100 hours reviewing and ranking each of the submissions. All nominations were assessed according to a 40-point system: 20 points for business achievement, 10 points for expertise and 10 points for community involvement. “I really like the way the award itself is structured. It is a balanced scorecard, with a slight tilt to business achievements. It is a great way to think about what it takes to be a business leader in the city. It’s not just about business expertise – it is about being a part of the community,” said Mr. Kulka.

Amanda has a lot in common with her clients and understands the need to have things done quickly and without compromise. “To do” lists are a constant in people’s lives; it seems that as quickly as one list is checked off, another list is started. “Understanding our clients’ individual needs, building long-term, trusting relationships, and valuing client confidentiality are the standard at InStyle.

Balance InStyle opened its doors in 2006 and was the first in Ottawa to provide lifestyle management solutions from leisure to luxury all the way down to the routine and mundane. In 2007 Balance InStyle opened it’s second location in Naples Florida catering to snowbirds. 

Also in 2007, Amanda co-founded the Canadian Concierge Association to offer support and advice to those wishing to start their own Concierge Business after learning the ropes the hard way.

After running her business out of her home for the first few years Amanda decided it was time to take her game to the next level and took up residence at 107 Murray Street in the heart of the Byward Market.

In 2009 Weddings InStyle was created to offer couples opting for an intimate glamorous affair an alternative. "Budgets might be tight these days, but that doesn’t mean that style and romance are going away."

Civil weddings or bigger than “BIG” Sex in the City weddings were the options at hand, before Weddings InStyle. There were no turnkey full service options available in the downtown core that could accommodate 2–90 guests without compromise. In 2010 Amanda also became a licensed wedding officiant thus having the privileged to also perform ceremonies.

Events InStyle completes the trio. Offering premier event planning solutions that are a reflection of personal style that are customized to meet individual needs. 

Amanda is so passionate about her business and her clients and this is evident in everything that she puts her InStyle signature to.

Amanda and her team give back on a regular basis through the generosity of their clients. When re-organizing, purging or staging client homes, they often come across unwanted clothing, toys, and household items which they in turn donate directly to various women & children based shelters.

In 2005 Amanda co-founded the 100 Man Run and has helped raise over $100,000 for The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation a cause which is near and dear to her heart.

Amanda maintains that this award is a collaborative effort and is very thankful for her team, her vendors, friends and family who never lost faith in her vision, passion and determination to bring something new and InStyle to Ottawa.

Should We Be Doing Business With YOU?

WE WOULD LIKE YOU TO JOIN OUR PREFERRED VENDOR NETWORK

Our database of suppliers and service providers is second to none.  To become a preferred vendor of Balance InStyle, there are a few hoops you must jump through…we are hand picking a select few to join our network that we would like to build a relationship with.

Our clients rely on the promises we make. By association, Balance InStyle’s preferred vendors are an extension of our company, and as such are similarly bound by those same promises. In view of this, our preferred vendors must adhere to strict performance standards.

Balance InStyle is strict in regards to compliance; many who apply for preferred vendor status simply do not make the cut. However, if you strive for consistent excellence in your field, have the ability to handle added capacity, and are dedicated to personal service and attention, you may be interested in becoming a preferred vendor of ours.

THE ADVANTAGES ARE CLEAR

• Increased volume in customers by our referrals;
• Direct positioning from our marketing efforts;
• Special features in weekly and quarterly email newsletters and option to offer discounts or  highlight upcoming events;
• We take care of the networking and marketing that you just don’t have time for.

Most folks just want serenity, happiness, peace—an absence of irritation, and occasionally—access to a great meal or night out on the town. Life, well lived, demands balance, rhythm, equilibrium—perfect rhythm. At Balance InStyle, it is our goal to advance this principal. Balance InStyle recognizes that busy people benefit when time accrues to the personal side of the ledger.

WHO WE ARE

Balance InStyle has a wealth of experience in lifestyle management.  We are Ottawa’s First Premier Personal/Corporate Concierge Company. We are select, discreet, unfailingly earnest in our efforts, and dedicated to our mission statement. We are the perfect butlers: unobtrusive, highly capable with impeccable manners and background. Discreet, efficient, and invisible because the last thing our clients need is another intrusion.

WHAT WE DO

Balance InStyle provides a wide range of services that improve, affect and enhance the quality of client’s lives. There are no limits—so long as it is legal, moral and ethical—if you can imagine it, you can consider it done!

HOW WE DO IT 

Balance InStyle’s list of services is infinite.  Our resources are limitless. We will deploy a virtual army of diligent—outstanding staff, or, when appropriate, enlist a strategic partner to accomplish the task.  Our global database of suppliers and service providers is unparalleled. Vendors applying for InStyle approved undergo a rigorous review and selection process. 

Our InStyle approved vendors must comply with strict performance standards. Vendors include industry icons as well as innovative newcomers—the common denominator a single characteristic: excellence in their field. This is the defining difference:  Balance InStyle’s absolute insistence on quality.

                                               

We would like to refer your business to our clients. We would like to be able to call upon you at a moment’s notice and secure a reservation. We would like to refer our elite clients celebrating milestone events to your establishment. We would also like to work closely with you to learn about “what is happening” in our great city and let our clients know about it!

Please email us @ info@balanceinstyle.com and we will send you an application form.

Weddings InStyle offers more then just nuptials at the alter…

Alexandre Singh pulled off the surprise of the century this past February by sweeping his then girlfriend, Catherine Letendre off her feet, all the way to Nassau, Bahamas and proposed right off the plane; she said yes.

Alexandre and Catherine had been together for seven years, most of which he traveled home from the States (where he works) on weekends to see her.


They had always talked about eloping one day, in a private setting on a beach somewhere… but Catherine had no idea what Alexandre had up his sleeve this winter.


The question for him was how to execute? Where to begin? How do you pull off a surprise wedding in the Bahamas when you’re residing in Ottawa?


Well the answer was simple- call Weddings InStyle!

"It all started with an idea I had for a romantic wedding in the
Bahamas,” Alexandre recalls. “After a few days of struggling on my own, I knew it would be hard to pull it off without help. I was a little overwhelmed withthe task at hand and I thought I wouldn’t be able to make it happen.”

After contacting Weddings InStyle, Alexandre explains, he knew it was in good hands and they could take his idea and turn it into reality.

“They took care of everything,” he adds, “from researching all of the legalities, finding an officiant, to taking care of all scheduling and payments

setup.”

Not only did Weddings InStyle take care of the particulars, organizing and production, they ensured that it was still on track to the ‘dream wedding’ he was inspired to have for Catherine.

“They listened to what I wanted and respected my budget,” Alexandre said. They also provided great insight and feedback on little details that I would

have overlooked.”

From the flight to the floral arrangements to the wedding dresses, Weddings InStyle handled it all. They even bought two wedding dresses and had a seamstress in the Bahamas on stand by for any last minute alterations.

“We wanted to give her choices,” Jill Currie, wedding coordinator said. “So we went with two different dresses that were shipped to the Bahamas so she could then pick one for herself. This way, Catherine could feel part of the decision making for her destination, surprise wedding.”

Weddings InStyle also gave her choice in the flower arrangements upon arrival.

“They made the whole experience feel like I was working with a friend and someone who had my best interest at heart,” said Alexandre. “The end result was better than what I could’ve imagined. I think they may have even made sure that the sun would be out in time for the ceremony!”

“Thank you Jill and Amanda for all your help,” he said. “And making me look like one of the most romantic guys in Ottawa."


Check out the video of her proposal and wedding!

Balance InStyle is Offering a New and Unique Service that is Sure to Please!

Balance InStyle is offering a new and unique service that is sure to please!

Is your closet increasingly becoming less useful to you? Do you find that many items in your wardrobe are less practical with your lifestyle? Are you doubling up unknowingly on items you’ve already bought in the past? Or maybe you’re just feeling your clothing has begun to “dull” you down…

If this speaks to you, then WE have the solution!

Fashion Consultant and Wardrobe Expert, Erica Wark is on staff and wants to help!

Services offered include but are not limited to:

• Re-organization of your closet and wardrobe

• Completing new outfits from the clothing currently in your wardrobe in order to update your look: what currently works for your specific body shape and what doesn’t. What’s worth keeping in your closet and what’s worth tossin’

• After the ‘closet makeover’ is complete, we will create a Grocery List of key items that you currently don’t have, but need in your wardrobe in order to portray the BEST version of you!

• Lastly is the personal shopping on YOUR budget. This is for someone who is interested in; once we’ve gone though the closet with you, having the fashion consultant take you shopping and assist in finding the pieces that are on your Grocery List and finding what works best for your body.

For any queries or to register for an appointment please contact us at:

InStyle & Co
www.balanceinstyle.com
info@balanceinstyle.com
613-440-4446

Shop InStyle…For a Cure: A HUGE Success!

Oh what a night!

It was all smiles and laughter last Thursday night, despite the torrential downpour outside!

Not only did everyone enjoy themselves and those around them, but they also loved the champagne, the cup cakes and of course the dresses from White Haute Bridal!

From the gorgeous flowers and unique jewelry to the talented Smashbox makeup artist and entertaining photo booth and photographers, they all added to the ambiance of the evening.

Most importantly however, we are thrilled to say that we raised $2000.00 for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, and as a result, Jamie Smith walked away with the STUNNING La Maison D'or Tacori diamond necklace!

Thank you once again for everyone who attended and of course to our FABULOUS vendors and sponsors including:

Full Bloom
Flour Shoppe
La Masion D’Or
Stella & Dot
White Haute Bridal
InsTANt attraction
Frash Femme
M Photography
Master Mind
Ottawa Unique Limo
Barrett Palmer
Rinaldo’s
Free Form Fitness
Smashbox
Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation
Moksha Yoga
Dolce & Gabbana
Peloso Cleaners

We couldn’t have done it without you!

Thanks to everyone who helped us on Rogers on Friday!

Thanks to all who checked us out on Rogers Daytime TV this morning! For those of you who missed it, check us out on Tuesday morning on the A Channel Morning Show!

Also, special thanks again to Barrett Palmer Models, The Flour Shoppe for the delightful cupcakes and to Full Bloom Floral Design for the beautiful flower arrangement!

SHOP INSTYLE...FOR A CURE

Come join us Thursday, April 8th 2010, to celebrate meaningful friendships, memorable experiences and the merriment of wedding planning... all for a magnificent cause:

The Canadian Breast Cancer Association.

Hosted by Ottawa's hottest new Wedding Chapel in the heart of downtown, Weddings InStyle; Shop InStyle for a Cure will be an evening to remember.

Not only will you be introduced to some of Ottawa's leading bridal experts, but you will have the amazing opportunity to shop right off the rack for designer dresses provided by White Haute Bridal.

White Haute Bridal is a modern bridal boutique with an extensive selection of once loved and never-worn bridal gowns, mother-of-the-bride dresses, bridesmaid dresses and accessories.

Ranging from size four to fourteen, with up to 75% off the original prices, there is something for every blushing bride's desired wedding.

And to make it even easier on you, Barrett Palmer Models will be showcasing some fabulous designs from White Haute Bridal as you and your friends mingle, sip champagne and enjoy cupcakes from The Flour Shoppe!

What more could a girl ask for?

Oh wait- there's more...

Expert hairstylists from Rinaldo's Hair Designers and Spa will be attending for any questions you may have for your big day!

Additionally, there will be a photographer on-site as well as a photo booth, to create some wonderful memories that you and your friends will never forget.

And lastly- it wouldn't be a party without some amazing giveaways and goodies to take home!

Details are as follows...

Thursday, April 8th, 2010
5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Weddings InStyle

107 Murray St.
Ottawa, ON.

Still not convinced?

Check us out on Rogers Daytime Television this Friday, March 26th, 2010 and on the A Channel Morning Show on Tuesday, March 30th, 2010 where we'll be presenting a few of the designer dresses that will be available to purchase at the event that evening!

HURRY as tickets are limited!

Please purchase your SHOP InStyle for a Cure at:

http://www.shopinstyle.eventbrite.com/

OR call us at:

613.440.4446

We look forward to seeing you there!

Balance InStyle Concierge Offers Events & Wedding Planning

Balance InStyle offers solutions to busy executives, professionals, business owners and anyone else eager to free themselves from the routine and mundane, but necessary, tasks that eat away at the free time they would rather devote to friends, family and personal pursuits.

It all comes down to what value you place on your time. Ask yourself, when all your must do’s are taken care of, do you have time left over for your want to do’s?

Patrick Graham, president of Tony Graham Automotive Group, has been a client for almost two years. He shares the value of our services. “Balance InStyle allows me to concentrate on building what is important to me without having to worry about managing my home life as well,” says Graham. “I don’t consider this a luxury, but an essential part of a balanced lifestyle.

“It’s wonderful, after a long day, to come home to a stocked fridge and a cleaned and organized house,” he adds. “And if I am having renovations done, or having to deal with some other concern that would otherwise force me to take time from work, all I have to do is call Amanda and her professional team to handle it for me. Even when I travel, Balance InStyle knows what I want and is there to take care of all the little details.”

Late last year I branched out with two new turnkey services developed from client feedback – Events InStyle and Weddings InStyle.

Both offerings take advantage of Balance InStyle’s preferred vendor network, as well as its new location located at 107 Murray Street in the ByWard Market. A chic and intimate space with the look and feel of a New York City-Style Loft.

Our new venue on Murray street offers a blank canvas upon which we work with our clients to create whatever look and feel they desire – modern, urban, romantic or elegant, Our 2200 sf open concept event space features exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, granite bar, attractive lighting, state-of-the-art audio and stylish decor to suit any event.

Weddings InStyle takes on a turnkey approach for a memorable and hassle-free wedding day, with services that include photography, flowers, catering, hair, make up and transportation. The intimate, well-appointed space is the most unique and modern wedding venue in Ottawa – a great alternative to the already-been-there-for-your-friend’s-wedding feel typical of most other banquet rooms, hotels and catering venues in Ottawa.

Whether looking for a simple ceremony with a few close friends and family, a reception cocktail party for 120 or something in between, we can make it happen InStyle!

If you want to go beyond the stale hotels boardrooms and conference centers for your next corporate event, Events InStyle is the perfect venue.

With a keen eye for detail our event space was created to provide a chic alternative to entertaining and meetings in the capital.

Events InStyle hosts a variety of product launches, media & fashion events, focus groups, fundraisers and a variety of other events. Our facility boasts an atmosphere of casual elegance, and offers a wide array of amenities and first-class service.

At Events InStyle we customize each affair and provide you with a chic and upscale palette, so you can create the look and feel that will make your event stand out. Weddings & Events InStyle partner with some of Ottawa’s finest catering services. Whether you need bagels and lox for a corporate breakfast, mouth-watering canapés for your next cocktail party or a private chef to dazzle, we can match you with the right caterer to help make your event a memorable success.

To learn more about us - please visit our Facebook Pages or Websites.
Facebook - Events InStyle
Facebook - Weddings InStyle