Mini Media Meets... Trish Gallagher, CEO of Bobolu Designs

Trish Gallagher, Founder & CEO

The BOBOLU story and the power of positive quotations

Trish tell us what inspired you to create Bobolu Designs?

I’ve always been a great believer in the power of positive quotations and affirmations. For as long as I can remember I’ve been drawn to them because of the positive vibes they emit. I have found that when life has thrown me a curve ball or put road blocks in my way I have always turned to positive affirmations or uplifting quotations to take me to a better place in my head. By scribbling these on post it notes and strategically placing them around my house, they help to change my thinking and bring about a positive change in my life.

I bought my first book of quotations over 20 years ago. A tiny little book, no bigger than the size of a box of matches, I still have and refer to it. And from there my love of quotations, positive affirmations and feel good messages grew. A big fan of Louise Hay, a master in positive philosophy, I travelled to San Diego to attend one of her seminars and as well as traveling to hear the likes of Tony Robins, Wayne Dyer, Marianne Williamson and Robert Holden, all gurus in positive thinking and personal development.

It's all in the name... where did the name BOBOLU come from?

So the name….its quiet simple really, we have two gorgeous children called Bobby and Lucy, hence I called the company BOBOLU. On a rare occasion when my husband Sean and I had the opportunity to get a night away together, and armed with nothing but a pen and a glass of wine, we started writing versions of their names on a coaster. That was the beginning.  

I came home the following night, took out a flip chart and came up with BOBOLU; Bob-o-Lu. Hopefully as they get older they’ll come to understand why I came up with that name. In time, I want them to know that it is important for me to have a career & fulfil my own needs. I also want them to know that I love them beyond measure and calling my company after them encompasses both my love for them as well as doing a job I love.

Tell us about your Mission for BOBOLU 

My mission with BOBOLU is to spread that positive vibe which will hopefully help others in their own pursuit of happiness and success, be it in their personal lives, careers or businesses.  

I believe passionately in the power of words. That’s why I’ve created a range of products that incorporate positive quotations and empowering affirmations. 

Designed to awaken optimism and encourage growth and expansion, these products are the ideal way to enhance your home or office.  My wish for you is that, here at BOBOLU, you will find the perfect gift for yourself or others.

Let's admire some of your stunning wall decor 

How can people get in touch?

Shop by collection on our website full of stunning wall decor for your home or office including Corporate, Contemporary, Photographic, Typography and Black & White designs.  Don’t forget to follow us on social media #BOBOLUdesigns 

FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

Eir Spiders Digital Workshop, The Building Block, Sligo

Eir Spiders Digital Workshop, The Building Block, Sligo

On Wednesday the 23rd of August 2017, I had the pleasure of joining the panel at the eir Spiders Digital Workshop in The Building Block, Sligo.  It was a very enjoyable and productive morning of networking with like-minded business owners.  I was delighted to share my knowledge and experience with an engaged audience and I also gained lots of digital insights from the other digital experts on the panel. 

MODERATOR: Aidan Doyle - CEO, Sligo Chamber of Commerce

The opening address was given by Aidan Doyle, CEO of Sligo Chamber of Commerce who also acted as moderator during the workshop.  Aidan is CEO of Sligo Chamber of Commerce & Industry.   He has extensive experience in business having held management roles within Bank of Ireland and the Rabbo Banking Group in Cork and Sligo for over 25 years.   Aidan is a co-founder of the successful company Dream Links Golf, which specialises in attracting overseas golfers to the Sligo region focusing on the connoisseur golfer and the corporate market.   As CEO of Sligo Chamber of Commerce & Industry Aidan works closely with all stakeholders to develop growth and innovation to the Sligo Region.  

SPEAKERS:

Sinéad Carroll, Founder and CEO of Mini Media and Irish Blogger Agency

I was first up to deliver my presentation on 'The rise of Digital Influencer Marketing and how it can impact your bottom line'.  As CEO of Irish Blogger Agency, Ireland's dedicated agency for digital influencer marketing I was in a position to share my experiences and give my point of view on the benefits of digital influencer marketing, how to measure influencer marketing success, how to effectively engage with digital influencers and I closed my presentation by sharing some successful digital influencer campaigns over the past 12 months. 

Daniel Browne, Commercial Director Ocean Media, Director of Sea Sessions Surf & Music Festival

As a blogger and content creator I was very interested in hearing Daniel Browne's presentation titled ' Content is still king' - exploring constants in a changing environment'.   Having worked in the media in the north west for almost 20 years, after a career in journalism Daniel moved to the commercial side of media opening 13 Newspapers for River Media as Operations Director.  With all this experience, amazing stage presence and lots of charm it is no wonder Daniel delivered a fantastic presentation.

Today Daniel is the Commercial Director of Ocean Media, which operates the award winning radio station Ocean FM, and now delivers video production for commercial clients across the region as well as web design, social media management and graphic design. Daniel is also one of the owners of Sea Sessions Surf Music Festival in Bundoran, a multi award winning festival which most recently beat Electric Picnic and Longtitude to be named the IMRO festival of the year for 2016.

Barry Walsh, Digital Marketing Manager, Supermacs Ireland

Confident, charismatic and full of energy, Barry Walsh delivered an excellent presentation on 'Understanding mobile experience for business'.  As Digital Marketing Manager for Supermacs Ireland Barry oversees management and development of Online Digital Strategy and implementation for Supermac's Ireland.   Barry also spoke about Digital Transformation and shared news of the new Supermac's app launching soon.  He also touched on branding through Social Media and Google Analytics for business.  

Previously, Barry worked as Lead Digital Consultant for Failte Ireland for 4 years, and was the Digital Strategy Manager for lead digital tourism agency OSD Digital. He was also a Digital mentor for Bank of Ireland and a Google Entrepreneur Mentor.  

Paul Mulqueen, Head of Small Business, eir

Sharing some real life examples from his own personal experiences, Paul gave a true and honest insight into the use of social media for small to medium size businesses.  There was lots to be learnt during Paul's presentation on 'The Revolution of Social Media in Small Business', with some top tips and tools shared,  allowing you to take your business into the digital age!

Paul started in eir over 19 years ago, when it was Telecom Eireann, within the IT department. He began his career as a Trainee Test Analyst testing the introduction of a new and innovative product called ‘broadband’! Since then, Paul’s role has evolved as he progressed through the company becoming a Product Manager for Value Added Services and Broadband. While in this role, he took the retail product lead in the development and implementation of fibre broadband in Ireland.

Following this, he became Head of Product for Small Business and subsequently the Head of Small Business where he manages the product and propositions areas for the business unit. Through his role, Paul has seen first-hand how the explosion of social media has helped small businesses thrive.  Paul knows it’s powerful to be connected online but that’s not enough, how you use your channels and what you say to your customers is what really takes a small business to the next level. 

Panel Discussion / Q & A

With an eager and engaged audience there was no shortage of questions at the end, all answered comprehensively by the panel.  Every day is a learning day in the 'Digital Space' so I have no doubt everyone left with some nugget of wisdom and excited to integrate (or improve) a digital marketing strategy into their marketing plan.  I certainly gained from bieng part of the workshop and I am looking forward to implementing some new and exciting strategies into my own digital marketing plan over the coming months. 

Conclusion 

As a Digital Marketing Strategist, Blogger and Web Designer specialising in e-commerce websites I know the importance of implementing a digital marketing strategy.  

The first question I ask any potential client is "Does your Business have a clearly defined Digital Marketing Strategy?".  The answer varies between NO full stop or No - we are doing digital marketing but have no defined digital marketing strategy.  

Whether you have a digital marketing strategy or not Mini Media is here to assist you and your business so please get in touch to avail of my 1 hour FREE consultation.  I will review how well you are currently using the key digital marketing techniques, identify the gaps in your current digital marketing strategy and briefly discuss the overall digital strategy and the key tactics like Search, Social Media, Email Marketing, Influencer Marketing and website/experience design.

Mini Media would also like to offer a 20% discount on Web Design and Logo Design until the end of September 2017.  Call 083 10 22 553 or email minimediairl@gmail.com and quote Discount Code: MINIMEDIAEIR

Thank you to Rebecca and Sarah and all the team at eir Spiders for including me as part of #eirSpidersWorkshop.  I look forward to delivering my next presentation at the upcoming eir Spiders Digital Workshop taking place on the 6th September in Limerick.   The event is FREE to attend and is aimed at SME's who are seeking to improve their digital presence online and also to hear from past eir Spider awards winners. The Limerick Digital Workshop is especially exciting as there will be a Panel Discussion with three Players from the Munster Rugby Team who will also be taking questions of attendees.

Mini Media Meets... Hairwaves Hair Studio

Tell us about your modern and spacious hair studio Hairwaves...

“We opened our doors on the 25th September 2015. Hairwaves Hair Studio is located in Corrandulla Village, Galway. We are two passionate hairdressers and stylists who are combining our talents and love for our profession to bringing a fresh business to the Corrandulla area.”

— Elaine & Laura, Owners

Elaine did you always dream of owning you own hair studio?

Hairdressing has always been my passion and I knew I was on the right path when I was awarded a silver medal in the Wella Professional Trend Vision Final in the Young Talent Category and also competed as a member of Team Ireland in Oslo, Norway.  

Yes, my dream came true the day we opened Hairwaves Hair Studio.  I'm a native of Roscommon but have been living in Galway for a number of years and I'm delighted to have brought my own style and creativity to the local area where I now live. 

Laura, who is from the local area and no stranger to the community, is also highly qualified working her way to the top hairdressing levels with Peter Marks.  Tell us more about what you offer at Hairwaves Hair Studio.

With a combined 20 years' experience in the industry we specialise in colour, root touch-ups, semi-permanent etc.  We use various highlighting techniques including balayage and ombre to ensure each visit our clients have a unique and personal touch.   

At Hairwaves we provide an extensive range of treatments for all hair types, using a wide range of Wella products you are guaranteed to be able to get 5 star treatment.  All Wella products used are also available to buy in the the salon.  

Both Elaine & I always keep up to date with the latest trends and techniques and we offer highly developed skills in cutting, colouring and texturing.  With a flair for up styling we can cater for bridal parties, debs, communions etc. 

Introduce us to the rest of the Hairwaves Team...

Meet our two beautiful and talented stylists Elma & Michaela.  

What are you opening hours?

Mon - Wed: 9am - 6pm

Thur - Fri: 9am - 8pm

Sat - 8am - 4.30 pm

How can people get in touch?

To book an appointment call (091) 793 021

You can follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

www.hairwaves.ie

How to find us...

We're located in Corrandulla Village, Galway 

Take Headford Road (N84) straight passed Dunnes for about 8k (7/8 minutes drive), then you will come to Cunniffes & Regans in Cloonboo (these will be on your left).  Just past Regans turn right, drive for 2 km until you come to the T Junction, then take a left, drive for 1 km and turn right into Hairwaves Hair Studio.

We can't wait to see you. 

 

Unique Photography and Video Services capturing your business for the world to see

It's a Wonderful Life

Producing unique photography and visually stunning documentary style timeless promo videos that feature you and your business is one of the many talents of Julia & Kenny the dynamic duo behind Wonderfulife Productions. 

Working with Julia and Kenny is a dream... in fact I call them the dream team!!!  Their warm and charming personalities are so infectious and their work ethic is second to none. Wonderfulife Productions never fail to capture moments and emotions that you will instantly fall in love with. 

The perfect couple...Julia the lady behind the lens capturing the unique and flawless photo's and Kenny the man behind the video camera brining your stories to life on screen, this pair totally complimenting each other.

Photo source: Wonderfulife Productions

A picture is worth a thousand words 

The importance of professional photos for your business:

Investing in professional photos for your business website is a must.  First impressions count and a single image is more valuable than tonnes of words.  When it comes to the appearance of your website, simple, clean and professional will make you stand out from your competitors.  

We are a visual culture. A strong photography creates more conversions by capturing the imagination and helps us understand context without needing to read the print.  It's so important to get your customers attention and then keep it!!!  Great photos are an investment that pays for itself tenfold when done with care and love.

The power of video 

The importance of video marketing for your business: 

Video marketing should now form part of your promotion toolbox.   Video is one of the most versatile and profitable digital marketing tools out there.   Videos build trust and allows you to build long term relationships.   

Video content can tug on peoples emotions and can foster trust as well.  Not forgetting google loves videos.  If you have a video embedded into your website you are 53 times more likely to show up first on Google.  

When it comes to launching a new product or service a video is key and video encourages social engagement and shares.   Video marketing is becoming more and more affordable and widespread but make sure if you are going to do it, do it right!!!!

Proudly presenting...

The wonderful work of Julia & Kenny, Wonerfulife Productions

I had the pleasure of working with Wonderfulife Productions on this recent video for my client Wigs at... Bellissimo.  What I love so much about this video is that Julia and Kenny captured the passion, sincerity and expertise of the wig consultant Rita.  This video is informative, engaging and professional.  

Mini Media Meets...Dolores Andrew Gavin, CEO Irish Health Hour

Tell me about your own background?

After almost 20 years working in law where I qualified as a Legal Executive and held a Diploma in Legal Studies I embarked on a new journey into health and wellness.    This was partly due to economic circumstances and partly due to my new role as Mum!!  

I had always had an interest in natural health and wellness and have spent the last 8 years re training.   My studies have included Master Practitioner in Energy Medicine including Emotional Freedom Technique, Reiki Master, Empowerment Coach, Soul Care Practitioner, Soul Mentoring, Emotional Intelligence, Aromatherapy and a few more!!!  I am also an Author of two children’s bi-lingual books and associated emotional intelligence website www.themythicfairy.com.

Tell us a little bit about IrishHealthHour

IrishHealthHour is a national and international interactive health and wellness community.    It is a place where all things health and wellness are discussed and shared and, where people can come to promote what they do.   

I have always enjoyed networking and organising events and during my time involved in Junior Chamber Galway in the ‘90s I chaired many projects including the Tourist Guide twice!  I was also Chapter President of Junior Chamber Galway in 1998.  So I combined a lot of the older skills I had under my belt with the newer ones I was learning and brought together a community for networking in the health and wellness field.  

I also founded the Global Emotional Health Summit, a week long on line Summit where 18 experts from all over the world took part in a series of interviews on all things emotional and mental health.    It was a huge success and I had over 300 subscribers from all corners of the globe logging on to hear the calls throughout the course of the week. 

I also had many members from the IrishHealthHour community chatting all things health and wellness in a special “fireside chat” series which aired over December and early January.

Here is the speaker line up .. Cant wait to share with you January 16th -21st Free to subscribe https://t.co/fYpUo9xhBD

— Dolores Andrew Gavin (@emotionalsummit) January 7, 2017

How is IrishHealthHour an interactive platform?

It is interactive in that there is a hashtag hour every Saturday morning from 11 – 12 am GMT #irishhealthhour.   On this hashtag hour people can network with others in any area of health and wellness.    

There is a chance to be a guest on the hashtag hour (part of the paid community plan) where you get to promote what you do and be available on the hour to interact with people.   Your company get a weeks promotion before the hour across all platforms Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Google+  

The topics included in the health and wellness community are varied and people can benefit from learning something new, whether it be a mindset skill or a recipe for a healthy soup or vegan bread!  

It is always “open mic” too though on the hour for all things health and wellness and you are welcome to shout out what it is you do even if you are not the guest!   It is like networking in a friendly environment, except you are tweeting!!!

Do you have to be in the health and wellness business to take part?

Yes, if you are promoting your work it has to be health and wellness related.  BUT if you are looking for a recipe, a yoga practitioner, a bottle of essential oil, a fitness expert or a reflexologist then you can come along and ask a question to find who or what you are looking for.   

In that way you have a chance to possibly chat or should I say “tweet” with the practitioner you may end up working with.   It is a great way for people to know whether or not they will resonate with people too.  Business does take place on the hour! We also discuss community issues with guests who have an expertise in a particular area.       

Does it cost to join the hashtag hour?

No not at all.  IrishHealthHour has lots of free resources.   One of these is the hashtag hour which happens every Saturday as I mentioned from 11 – 12 am GMT.    There is also an informative blog on the web site and listings of workshops all over Ireland or farther afield.

Are these the ones Iarliath loves? Oh they look gorgeous defo making them tomorrow. @organicseaweed1 https://t.co/WnbODj3OO3

— @irishhealthhour (@irishhealthhour) January 21, 2017

Tell me about the subscription web site www.irishhealthhour.com

There is the paid part of IrishHealtHour which you can become a member off, should you wish to.

The web site www.irishhealthhour.com offers a host of services including:    

• You can have a blog done on your health and wellness product or service;

• This may include a site visit if required,

• A Zoom interview where you can explain all about what you do.  This will then be on www.irishhealthhour.com and you can embed it on your website too.

• A chance to be guest on the hashtag hour.

• Social media coverage

• Advertising your events/workshop/product

• Health and wellness campaigns

• and much more!   

Pricing is very affordable and you can check out details below:

Where can people find you

The web site is www.irishhealthhour.com 

You can also follow on:

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Holistic Mummy