Kristine Poor, Poorhouse Quilts

I decided to attend the Creative Arts Business Summit because I wanted to focus on business growth for Poorhouse Quilt Designs, away from daily distractions. What I came away with, after attending the Summit was much more; I found clarity in my vision for my business, renewed enthusiasm for my business processes and a new view of my brand. All of the attendees shared experiences and knowledge and understanding that I couldn’t have imagined, had I not been there to witness it! Morna and the guest speakers inspired us to move beyond today and see the next step. Marketing through social media has been a big “block” for me personally; after discussing this topic, I am using new strategies to accomplish my goals that are “do-able” for me, and I am seeing results! When I returned to my studio, I had a list of actionable items and I am moving forward every day. Just seeing this progress one month after the Summit is exciting! I will definitely return next year! Thanks, Morna!

Rhonda Pierce, Marketing Director, Euro-notions.com & SCHMETZneedles.com

Thank you for another fabulous Creative Arts Business Summit. This was my third CABS and, along with my one year Mastermind group, want to applaud you for creating such dynamic, safe and creative environments to focus on my brilliance. It’s not always easy to step away from work, but the time and money is so well spent. Since attending CABS, seems each year my business focus becomes more acute and energetic.  In fact, my professional accomplishments seem to be on an accelerated track that I fully credit to your events. Thank you for sharing your brilliance, your knowledge and enriching my professional confidence.

Carolyn Goins, CPGDesigns.com

Before coming to the Creative Arts Business Summit, I was at a crossroads in my business. I debated whether I would get anything out of the event. I knew the WHY of my business but I was beginning to fear that the WHY was only in my mind. Throughout the three days, listening to Morna's value-filled sessions, learning the techniques and strategies she taught us, and masterminding with the other attendees, my energy for my business returned to me.  I left with the renewed belief that what I provide is of value and the inner knowledge that I really do want to continue my work. At the end of the second day, the pieces of information that had been swirling around in my brain began to come together. I feel now I have a real plan of action to take with me as I return home and move forward in my business. Despite a dismal year last year I believe that my experiences over these three days have given me what I need to revitalize and revamp what Iím doing this year and anticipate success. This was far more productive and encouraging than I ever expected!

AnnaLee Waite, AnnaLee Waite Designs

I joined CABS three years ago because I wanted to be part of a professional group of creative entrepreneurs. The connections along with the education I have gained through being part of the CABS group have helped me to lay out a very specific plan for my needlework design business which has set me on a path to greater success.  Twelve months after joining joining CABS I made the commitment to be part of the Mastermind Group.  Here I found that small group coaching and weekly accountability calls really raised my awareness of how to fine tune my  business and marketing plan.  Seeing other business owners in the group succeed and then learning in detail how they run their businesses has been a powerful tool to motivate me to improve my business. Building friendships with other creative business owners in the group has been very rewarding

Joanne Hillestad, The Fat Quarter Gypsy

It can be life changing! My first year was all about the connections I made with other creative professionals. My second year lead to great opportunities. I came prepared with a notebook of 'million dollar ideas'. I wanted to discuss them with others and decide if any of them were worth pursuing. I think spending 3 intense days in that mindset helped me have an Ah-ha moment. On the afternoon of the last day, I was given a little purple springy trash can. How fun, I thought. I said aloud, "my husband can make these!" I was referring to the springs inside. And that was the beginning of the Fat Quarter Pop Up. Four weeks later my husband and I introduced them to my local quilt shop and the rest is history! You never know what inspiration will come out of CABS... I can't wait to see what this year brings!

Kelly Ann Richardson, Kelly Ann's Quilting

Not knowing what to expect when I attended my first Creative Arts Business Summit I was pleasantly surprised by the sharing of knowledge and experience from such a diverse group of independent business owners. While the majority of attendees were pattern designers, Morna fosters an atmosphere for everyone to feel comfortable in giving insight into successes and failures in their business. With my business model being different then the majority I still felt a connection and was able to make solid contacts and forge relationships with several attendees. CABS allows businesses to expand not only their businesses but their minds to new possibilities. At the end of very intensive days I walked away with a lot of tips and organizational skills that I am continuing to use today.

Patty Sawyer, Border 2 Border Quilting Studio and Sewclusion™ Retreats

I remember arriving at CABS for the first time wallowing in a myriad of negative mind sets, feeling defeated, unsuccessful and overwhelmed. I left CABS feeling like a force to be reckoned with and exploding with new ideas. Morna and her staff not only welcome you with open arms, but help you realize you are not alone in your business struggles. First, you need to understand that CABS is not a thing, it is a network of dynamic business professionals who whether individually or collectively, all selflessly support each other. Whether you need encouragement and applause or to be pulled and dragged kicking and screaming, this network has got your back.

CABS quickly helped me gain the skills and confidence I needed to continually set goals and take some risks necessary to realize and achieve my future dreams. Whether it was simply to establish a system or help find solutions outside of the box, CABS has changed the way I think and feel about my business and my life. Since my first CABS experience, I am purposefully focused, more positive and energy driven, have re-branded, hired help, expanded services and even moved out of state to optimize other opportunities I had only previously dreamt about.   My business is now growing and reflects my values and core business principles and my plan is to continue to have CABS be a part of that growth.

Lisa Reber, Dippy Dyes

Today marks one week from my first day at the Creative business summit 2013. My husband commented "I've never seen your work so hard!" He doesn't know that I'm working smarter, too! Now I have to improve how I work systematically in the days since I got home have been spent somewhat scattershot, as I move from one bright shiny object to the next. I've started Tweeting; uploaded a video to YouTube and opened my Etsy shop with eight hand-dyed, textured shibori scarves. I've downloaded the newest shopping cart software and started adding inventory items to my website, and I've got hubby set up with a free lecture and a Craftsy class on photographing my products. I'm going to be keeping him busy too! Now I have to block out time to get back to my newsletter and blog, and then, following Morna's advice, set up scheduled posts putting that content out there through social media. Then I'll be back to the dyepots!