The Ripple Effect: Candice's Story

So often we look at people's success and convince ourselves that it was handed to them. The truth is, good things do not just magically manifest themselves. Whether the journey is full of potholes, or smooth as freshly laid asphalt, it is still a journey. Every accomplishment whether big or small has come out of effort, time and most importantly; a thought.

The Ripple Effect is a concept that I have been looking at in the lives of many people whom I admire. Just like a single droplet can generate waves in an expansive pool, so too can a simple thought channel the unraveling of fruition. Everything we see, touch, feel, taste or experience, first started as an idea.


I sat down with Candice Baccus; Owner of Simply runway one afternoon, where she was telling me of all these big plans to involve more Trinidad Based Designers in her store. She kept throwing idea after idea to me, edifying even grander plans as I put in my two cents. Just over coffee, her amazing and inspiring vision was already beginning to actualise.


                  
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The story of Simply Runway wasn't so simple as I'm sure it appears sometimes. After investing all of their savings, and not being able to afford a space,Candice and her Husband, Issac almost had to turn away from their plans. ALMOST. Now after enjoying three years of serving an ever-growing and faithful clientele, they have recently opened a second branch, and have launched a huge initiative for local fashion, where they have gotten the support of FATT, CAFD, renowned designers and other important players in the industry. Life, and in this case, business, occur just as she says in the clip: through "Lucky breaks and perfect timing". There are amazing things waiting to happen to you, but you need to put in the ground work and be prepared not only to be able to deal with them, but to also see them.

At Simply Runway Accents

If there is one thing I hope you take away from her story, is that whatever you are dreaming of doing or becoming, it is possible. Don't be paralysed by your fears. Stop telling yourself you are too young, too shy or aren't talented enough. Do your research and have the confidence to just go for it. What's the worst that could happen? What do you have to lose? Really , think about it. What will you lose? It just takes one droplet. Rides the waves and see where you end up.

Simply Runway Accents

Video by Normal Normal Films
Photos of Simply Runway Accents Launch by Damian Luk Pat
Simply Runway and the new branch Simply Runway Accents are both located at Grand Bazaar

Staycation

I have been working overtime! For over 3 years now, I have been constantly dedicated to making a name for myself in Trinidad's fashion industry. Coming from a place where it's all about who you know, and not what you know, provides a special challenge, especially when you don't know anyone, and no one knows you!

 I'll say that I have been doing pretty well for myself. In these three short years I have accomplished quite a bit of formal fashion knowledge from 2 different schools, I interned for an amazing Stylist and mentor, I got the chance to meet and work with some of the most influential names in the industry, started my blogs and led them to a sizable group of followers, I'm organizing my second Women's beauty and Empowerment event, I'm fashion editor for an upcoming magazine, recently built www.nomorefashionvictims.com.... I really have been going at it strongly for a while. I forget to acknowledge the tremendous efforts and achievements, and like a true catastrophizer (thank you Sacha Lalla for my new favourite word) all I could think about is how much more I need to do and how little I'm being recognized.

 If this is you- a person who is never satisfied - perhaps you are like me, and need a change in perspective. I never let anything rest. I lose sleep over every task, I only have the finish line in my mind, and I never stop to just breathe and give myself a pat on the back. So I'm going to take some valued advice from a friend, and take a few days off, to pamper and reward myself for a job well done. It need not be a job completed to deserve applause. The road is long, and one should take a pit stop every now and again to switch off and re-fuel.

Here are some ideas for a little time alone:

1. Spa Day! My favourite spa in Trinidad is the La Vita Day spa, (shown in the picture to the left) which is located at the ground floor of the Bhp Billiton building next to Movietowne. After a massage they give you 15 mins in an amazing steam shower. I think I prefer the steam shower more than the massage. Super relaxing.
If I do decide on a Spa day, I think I might give the Hyatt a try this time though. Even though the price is exorbitant, a spa visit gives you access to the pool. Now that is a nice way to finish off a day of pampering! A little dip and a cocktail.... mmmhmmm

2. Hotel Sleepover I expect that after Carnival and into Spring, hotels in the Caribbean should be begging for visitors. I have membership to Hilton's Premium Club which gives me specials on rooms, restaurant, etc. I  have had a couple negative experiences with Hilton for customer service in the past, so I won't risk going there to upset myself on my stress-free escapade. However, staying overnight, getting some room-service and taking in a view are all nice options for a staycation.

The pool at the Hyatt Regency, Trinidad

3. Beach Not only is being at the beach the most relaxing thing you can do, but living on an island gives so many opportunities for an exotic experience without having to jump on a plane! There are several beach side properties you can rent- I've been to Mt. Plaisir at Grande Riviere, and woke up to turtles hatching and making their way to the water! Even without over nighting, it's fun to drive around and find unpopular bays that are untouched by commercialisation.

4. Picnic In highschool, a bunch of  my girlfriends and I got together for a great picnic at the Botanical Gardens, after a day at the zoo. Neither the gardens nor the zoo is too tempting these days because of crime and lack of maintenance, but I'm sure there are other places that would be beautiful.

If you have any suggestions do send them my way! I plan to take my days off next week!