A recession is a significant decline in economic activity in a given region that lasts for an extended period of time. In recent decades, experts have disagreed on whether falling gross domestic product (GDP) is enough to indicate a recession.  When a country experiences negative GDP, rising unemployment, and falling levels of retail sales, manufacturing, and personal income for a …

The monthly audience of Instagram totals to 1 billion users. As of 2020, 90% of brands are present on Instagram. For the US fashion industry, this number reaches a staggering 96%. When it comes to brand promotion, ignoring the possibilities of Instagram would be a folly.   Businesses are getting increasingly active on Instagram. Be sure to follow their example and …

Invoices are incredibly important for small business owners. They serve many purposes for the small businesses or independent contractors who create them as well as the clients and customers who receive them. Not only is it important to create invoices carefully so that critical information is included, it’s also a good idea to create a professional-looking invoice instead of something that looks …

Recently, I moderated a panel discussion that included Lori Greiner of TV’s Shark Tank, myself, and Alison Corcoran, the Staples Senior VP for North American Stores and Online Marketing, for a lively roundtable discussion about entrepreneurship and small business . After our panel discussion, I had a chance to sit down with Lori and ask her some questions about what it takes …

The method for making perfect hard-boiled eggs is highly debated. Some swear by steaming (which happens to be our favorite way) while others use the classic technique of bringing water on the stove to a boil. Most recently, people are turning to their Instant Pots or other pressure cookers to make them. If you’re craving egg salad or making deviled eggs, this is the place …

Over the past year, our homes became a place of sanctuary amid the stress and anxiety of a global pandemic, so it’s no wonder that many of us are gravitating toward decorating choices that help us feel calm and grounded. Color is an especially powerful tool in creating a soothing environment, and sage green has recently become a must-have hue for those seeking …

While we’re all for elegant decor, after a long day, nothing feels better than sinking into your favorite cushy chair and relaxing. The last few years have taught us that our homes should feel lived in and not just looked at. These days, having a formal living room that no one sets foot in just seems antiquated and a little …

Each fall, paint companies and interior design experts predict the colors that will shape our homes in the coming year. While the hues of 2022 centered around back-to-nature shades of green, 2023 is all about self-expression. See which paint colors the pros have forecasted thus far, then check back to find out all the predictions for the 2023 colors of the year …

It’s always a thrill when wild birds visit your garden. Cardinals are one of the easiest to recognize when you catch a glimpse of one perched outside your window. The males’ bright red plumage makes them stand out wherever they go. Both males and females sport jaunty top-hat-like crests and sing cheerful melodies. Cardinals are at home in most rural and …

Moms truly are superheroes, so it’s only fair that we have a whole day dedicated to them. Whether you surprise mom with breakfast in bed or a thoughtful gift, Mother’s Day is all about celebrating moms and mother figures everywhere. These days, the holiday is often celebrated with cards, gifts, and breakfast in bed, but it wasn’t always that way. The …

Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, created Father’s Day to honor her father, a veteran and single dad of 14 children. Since 1910 it’s been celebrated annually on the third Sunday of June because ministers in the early 1900s wanted to be sure they had enough time between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day to write two excellent sermons for services held on the holidays. And while …

Many people think of Labor Day as the unofficial end of summer activities—but aside from the fact that it typically includes a day off of work and a three-day weekend, do you know the purpose of this holiday? Most people know that Labor Day is a day set aside to show appreciation for the American labor force, but its roots are …

Both Stripe and PayPal can help you send invoices, process payments and receive money. How do they differ, and which one is right for your business? Stripe is a far more robust financial services provider and charges lower fees. Stripe is customizable, and allows your business to accept different payment options. PayPal has simple and straightforward invoicing tools for your …

An employer-sponsored 401(k) retirement plan can have many benefits for your employees and your business. Offering a 401(k) plan can help small businesses meet increasing employee expectations and retain top talent. Companies that offer 401(k) plans are eligible for significant tax breaks and deductions. Both businesses and employees benefit from optional employer contributions to workers’ 401(k) accounts. This article is …

Choosing the right business entity can be tricky, but understanding what an LLC is can help you make the best choice. LLC stands for limited liability company; LLCs protect a business owner’s personal assets if they’re involved in a lawsuit. An LLC can be taxed as a sole proprietorship, an S corporation or a partnership. An LLC can have unlimited …