This speech focused on body language. Body Language is an important part of speaking because it enhances your message and gives you more credibility.
It should be smooth, natural and convey the same message that the listeners hear.
For this speech I decided to take direction from a previous recommendation and chose a topic out of my comfort zone.
***
PIGS ON THE MOVE
Today I ask you – are pigs territorial? Do they like their own space or are they more social creatures and like the comfort of other pigs?
It’s at this point that you may think I’ve gone absolutely crazy, Mad as a March hare or off my rocker. You may think this is one of my random thoughts, but no!
Let me give you some background.
As I was driving along with my children, the music was blaring and we were bopping up and down like rabbits in and out of bunny holes.
I don’t know if you’ve noticed but in the summertime your movements are more fluid as you look around from side to side. Totally unlike the winter when I’m fixed on getting from A to B as the rain chucks it down like a bucket of slop.
On this particularly pleasant day, as I looked to my left I was greeted with a carpet of luscious green grass. It was the type of grass that I loved to roll down as a child when my dress would wind its way higher and higher up my legs until I exposed the big jobby knickers that Aunty Tessy bought us every Christmas. Maybe that’s too much of a visual?
Punctuating the grass were small pink mounds that reminded me of teenage acne. Oozing out of them were long slivers of sausages. Long slender pigs with silky babydoll pink skin, beautiful white downy hairs, flippy floppy ears, a sweet button nose and all finished off with a curly wurly tail.
It was then that I had this thought…
If Mr Pig starts his day off at the bottom of the field and, as it’s such a glorious day, he skips along to see his mate at the top of the field…when it becomes dusk, will he bunk up with his mate or return to his own pod?
Let’s make this interesting and take a vote.
(Vote = 4 think he will share a space with his fellow pig and the majority think he will wander back to his own pod).
Finding the answer to this conundrum has been so interesting and frequently hilarious as I’ve come across many a weird and wonderful website.
As I talk to you today there are actually studies being undertaken to calculate the amount of sleep required by a pig to bring you that succulent rasher for your breakfast tomorrow!
Did you know there are also discussion boards about how best to keep a pig as a pet – indoors! As a replacement to a dog!!
But what about Mr Pig and his dilemma?
If Mr Pig went to see his best friend at the top of the field then he might be inclined to stop the night because they are social creatures. However, just like us humans, pigs do prefer to sleep in their own bed at night.
So, everyone was right!
***
During the speech I had a bit of a mental block towards the end and felt as if I waffled talking about pigs being kept as a pet. I wasn’t happy with the way that it went and didn’t feel confident with my delivery.
I am conscious of personal matters in my life at the moment so maybe this unsettled me for the evening. My train of thought was not clear and I hadn’t practiced as much as I could have.
Here is the main evaluation:
Interesting, confident, imaginative speech.
I felt, however, as if the expressions were the speech and Gwendoline could have chosen a different topic to show an increased variety of movement and more statement, eg: pointing, fist on hand and more facial expressions.
Here are some other evaluations:
“I really enjoyed this speech… you are so descriptive… even about pigs! I bet you have so much fun with your kids. You definitely met your objectives of using body language. Well researched, confident, not even phased when you forgot what you were saying for a short moment. I find it very difficult to recommend anything. Maybe a bit clearer that the conclusion is on its way!”
“Expressive gestures. Good eye contact. I found the subject matter and style a bit childish. Some strong expressions. Well done.”
“Great brave and bold use of story. What could have been better next time is if you were to have some more body language pauses, quiet time in between the key points that you really want to ram home (or pig home!).”
“Confident speech. She would benefit from less gesticulations as that distracted from what she was saying.”
“One of the most unusual speeches told with warmth, charm and great confidence.”
“Idiosyncratic and funny – you did what you were meant to do. Well done.”
“An interesting and different speech! Your confidence has grown so much and you are so relaxed. Perhaps when delivering the ending be more demonstrative. Good speech.”
“My favourite subject – Pigs! I love them. Yes they are territorial (I grew up with them). Lovely silly subject.
“Fabulous, inspiring and descriptive phrases. Well delivered and very clever. Lots of research too!!”
Thursday, 23 April 2009
Better Homes & Garden
Have you ever searched google and then found a little gem of a website?
Well, I did just that the other day and found the BETTER HOMES & GARDEN website (www.bhg.com).
It has loads of useful hints and tips so checkout it out today or, like me, subscribe to their newsletter for instant updates on the latest trends.
Well, I did just that the other day and found the BETTER HOMES & GARDEN website (www.bhg.com).
It has loads of useful hints and tips so checkout it out today or, like me, subscribe to their newsletter for instant updates on the latest trends.
Thursday, 9 April 2009
NEWSLETTER - 2Q09
NEWSLETTER 2Q09
2009
THE YEAR TO GET AHEAD
INCLUDED IN THIS ISSUE:
1) New for 2009 - GA Interiors 'First Steps In Interior Design' course
2) New for 2009 - GA Interiors 'Next Steps In Interior Design' course
3) Interior Design - Latest Trends
4) AML - A new Ann Maurice!
5) Building relationships - Claridge & Hall Builders (Harpenden),
***
FIRST STEPS IN INTERIOR DESIGN
(MAY 2009 - WELWYN GARDEN CITY)
In collaboration with Oakland’s College, GA Interiors are teaching a great 'First Steps in Interior Design' course.
This evening course is aimed at anyone wanting an insight into interior design so that they can make their own homes look beautiful or assess whether it would be the right career move.
You'll cover basic interior design aspects such as:
- Colour Theory
- Inspiration, Style & Mood Boards
- Understanding a scale ruler and measuring a room
- Furniture layout
- Flooring
- Lighting
- Windows
- Wall treatments
- Accessory styling
All of this is carried out in a very informal way so that you have fun whilst you learn.
We also give you lots of industry insight and practical advice so that you are able to makeover your own home, or submit your willing friends and family to your new found knowledge, and have a great basis for further education, eg: our 'Next Steps In Interior Design' course.
The course itself runs once a week over a 6 week period, starting in January and May, at local Oakland’s' campus.
Here's what one of our last students had to say - "A Big thank you for all your invaluable advice and help on the course, you both made it fun and interesting."
Book your place now using the Direct Enrolment line on 01727 737373. As with any popular course, spaces are limited so it's advisable to book early.
***
NEXT STEPS IN INTERIOR DESIGN
(SEPTEMBER 2009 - ST ALBANS)
In collaboration with Oakland’s College, GA Interiors are teaching a fantastic 'Next Steps in Interior Design' course.
This evening course is aimed at anyone who already has some interior design knowledge and wants to broaden their design theory in areas such as:
- Techniques to make a room look larger, smaller, wider and narrower
- Identifying different styles, eg: Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian
- Creating professional concept boards and mood boards
- 2D + 3D Plans and Elevations
- Furniture choices and Furniture layout
- Professional Soft Furnishings
- Trade Considerations, eg: Builder, Plumber and Electrician
- Floral arrangements for Interior Design
- Professional Styling techniques
- Business Considerations, eg: Marketing, Sales, Website and Branding
All of this is carried out in a very informal way so that you have fun whilst you learn.
We also give you lots of industry insight and practical advice so that you are able to makeover your own home, or submit your willing friends and family to your new found knowledge. It also gives you a great basis for any further studies.
The course itself runs once a week over a 10 week period, starting in September 2009, at Oakland’s campus in Saint Albans.
Book your place now using the Direct Enrolment line on 01727 737373. As with any popular course, spaces are limited so it's advisable to book early.
***
LATEST TRENDS
This year has seen an explosion of COLOUR with Acid Green, Canary Yellow and Cobalt Blue.
We call these ‘Buy Me’ colours as they shout from the shelves in the current economic downturn. In this credit crunch economy, Acid colours are very cheering as they add brightness to a gloomy day.
All of these colours are great mixed together for a truly BAD TASTE ECLECTIC look and feel. Or you could opt for a more subtle design and mix them with White for a gentle and fresh colour scheme – a great look for the oncoming summer months.
As the credit crunch hits there’s a greater emphasis on HOMESPUN, i.e.: making your own and using what you’ve already got to add interest, variety and a great homely feel. It focuses on natural trades such as rag rugs, felt cushions and earthy wooden furniture.
At the opposite end of the spectrum we also have BOUTIQUE CHIC making a comeback with high gloss furniture, crystal accessories and luxurious feature wallpaper. It’s a way of adding luxury to our lives as our homes become ever more important as sanctuaries from the daily humdrum.
A new trend to look out for is ENGLISH ECCENTRIC where traditional patterns such as floral, tweed and tartan are given a modern twist onto statement sofas and elaborate carpets. Are you brave enough to have a tartan carpet?
The last trend to mention is CULTURAL where our usual ethnic designs are replaced with new RUSSIAN concepts using a great mix of vibrant colours and embroidered patterns.
Which is your favourite?
If you’d like to try out one of these trends but aren’t quite brave enough then just give us a call (0784 151 9802) and we’ll give you the confidence to make it work for you.
***
A NEW ANN MAURICE
(PROPERTY STYLING NETWORK)
The celebrity interior designer Ann Maurice, The House Doctor, has decided that it’s time to re-brand herself so that the network is internationally known for Interior Design as well as Home Staging (that’s makeovers to you and me).
The new network will be known as the Property Styling Network and Ann will still retain all right to the House Doctor branding.
With this comes a new website that will be launched the week commencing 14th April 2009. I’ll be able to send you a link once it’s launched.
It’s an exciting new website that will be easier for you to navigate and search for consultants, such as us, within your area.
The new website also makes it easier for you to find a professional consultant by the type of work that you are undertaking:
- Selling
- Letting
- Just Moved In
- Updating
- Cluttered
- Show Home
Of course there will still be loads of information on Ann’s Home Staging courses and 1 day specialist workshops for all those wishing to learn more about our industry or take a break from daily life.
Watch this space for more exciting news and up-to-the-minute information.
***
CLARIDGE & HALL BROS. LTD.
FAMILY BUILDERS SINCE 1890
Claridge & Hall Bros. Ltd. (http://www.claridgeandhall.co.uk/) is a Harpenden family-owned building firm that was established in 1890. That's 119 years of experience and four generations of family!
It's currently owned and run by Bruce Claridge who is a charming gentleman.
Their portfolio of work is both impressive and varied, covering residential and commercial work.
RESIDENTIAL:
In the current economic climate we know that there are many of you re-organising the internal structure of your homes and adding pockets of space through extensions.
We work with Bruce to ensure that any money you invest in your home is wisely spent so that you can maximise the value of your property whilst capitalising on the benefits now, i.e.: it's a great place for you to live now and a great buy for when you come to sell.
Whether you have an old or a new property, a modern loft conversion or a stately home makeover, we can help you achieve your dreams and live the way you've always wanted.
COMMERCIAL:
In the more commercial arena, Bruce and his team have many feathers to their hat with properties covering offices, hotels, restaurants and bars, schools and factories!
Bruce and his reliable workforce are able to do as little or as much of the build as required, i.e.: from the modernisation of toilet facilities through to complete refurbishment of the premises.
We're proud to be working alongside such a reputable builder with a wealth of knowledge and experience. They compliment the quality and professionalism of our own services.
You can find out more about Bruce and his family business by checking out his website at http://www.claridgeandhall.co.uk/.
***
GA INTERIORS
DECLUTTERED – DESIGNED - DELIGHTED
(CONTACT DETAILS)
For further advice or assistance please contact either Gwendoline or Christina using the following details:
GWENDOLINE ALDERTON
CREATIVE INTERIOR DESIGNER (RESIDENTIAL)
Tel: 07841 519802
gwendoline@ga-interiors.co.uk
CHRISTINA GEORGALLA
CREATIVE INTERIOR DESIGNER (COMMERCIAL)
Tel: 07950 401722
christina@ga-interiors.co.uk
www.ga-interiors.co.uk
2009
THE YEAR TO GET AHEAD
INCLUDED IN THIS ISSUE:
1) New for 2009 - GA Interiors 'First Steps In Interior Design' course
2) New for 2009 - GA Interiors 'Next Steps In Interior Design' course
3) Interior Design - Latest Trends
4) AML - A new Ann Maurice!
5) Building relationships - Claridge & Hall Builders (Harpenden),
***
FIRST STEPS IN INTERIOR DESIGN
(MAY 2009 - WELWYN GARDEN CITY)
In collaboration with Oakland’s College, GA Interiors are teaching a great 'First Steps in Interior Design' course.
This evening course is aimed at anyone wanting an insight into interior design so that they can make their own homes look beautiful or assess whether it would be the right career move.
You'll cover basic interior design aspects such as:
- Colour Theory
- Inspiration, Style & Mood Boards
- Understanding a scale ruler and measuring a room
- Furniture layout
- Flooring
- Lighting
- Windows
- Wall treatments
- Accessory styling
All of this is carried out in a very informal way so that you have fun whilst you learn.
We also give you lots of industry insight and practical advice so that you are able to makeover your own home, or submit your willing friends and family to your new found knowledge, and have a great basis for further education, eg: our 'Next Steps In Interior Design' course.
The course itself runs once a week over a 6 week period, starting in January and May, at local Oakland’s' campus.
Here's what one of our last students had to say - "A Big thank you for all your invaluable advice and help on the course, you both made it fun and interesting."
Book your place now using the Direct Enrolment line on 01727 737373. As with any popular course, spaces are limited so it's advisable to book early.
***
NEXT STEPS IN INTERIOR DESIGN
(SEPTEMBER 2009 - ST ALBANS)
In collaboration with Oakland’s College, GA Interiors are teaching a fantastic 'Next Steps in Interior Design' course.
This evening course is aimed at anyone who already has some interior design knowledge and wants to broaden their design theory in areas such as:
- Techniques to make a room look larger, smaller, wider and narrower
- Identifying different styles, eg: Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian
- Creating professional concept boards and mood boards
- 2D + 3D Plans and Elevations
- Furniture choices and Furniture layout
- Professional Soft Furnishings
- Trade Considerations, eg: Builder, Plumber and Electrician
- Floral arrangements for Interior Design
- Professional Styling techniques
- Business Considerations, eg: Marketing, Sales, Website and Branding
All of this is carried out in a very informal way so that you have fun whilst you learn.
We also give you lots of industry insight and practical advice so that you are able to makeover your own home, or submit your willing friends and family to your new found knowledge. It also gives you a great basis for any further studies.
The course itself runs once a week over a 10 week period, starting in September 2009, at Oakland’s campus in Saint Albans.
Book your place now using the Direct Enrolment line on 01727 737373. As with any popular course, spaces are limited so it's advisable to book early.
***
LATEST TRENDS
This year has seen an explosion of COLOUR with Acid Green, Canary Yellow and Cobalt Blue.
We call these ‘Buy Me’ colours as they shout from the shelves in the current economic downturn. In this credit crunch economy, Acid colours are very cheering as they add brightness to a gloomy day.
All of these colours are great mixed together for a truly BAD TASTE ECLECTIC look and feel. Or you could opt for a more subtle design and mix them with White for a gentle and fresh colour scheme – a great look for the oncoming summer months.
As the credit crunch hits there’s a greater emphasis on HOMESPUN, i.e.: making your own and using what you’ve already got to add interest, variety and a great homely feel. It focuses on natural trades such as rag rugs, felt cushions and earthy wooden furniture.
At the opposite end of the spectrum we also have BOUTIQUE CHIC making a comeback with high gloss furniture, crystal accessories and luxurious feature wallpaper. It’s a way of adding luxury to our lives as our homes become ever more important as sanctuaries from the daily humdrum.
A new trend to look out for is ENGLISH ECCENTRIC where traditional patterns such as floral, tweed and tartan are given a modern twist onto statement sofas and elaborate carpets. Are you brave enough to have a tartan carpet?
The last trend to mention is CULTURAL where our usual ethnic designs are replaced with new RUSSIAN concepts using a great mix of vibrant colours and embroidered patterns.
Which is your favourite?
If you’d like to try out one of these trends but aren’t quite brave enough then just give us a call (0784 151 9802) and we’ll give you the confidence to make it work for you.
***
A NEW ANN MAURICE
(PROPERTY STYLING NETWORK)
The celebrity interior designer Ann Maurice, The House Doctor, has decided that it’s time to re-brand herself so that the network is internationally known for Interior Design as well as Home Staging (that’s makeovers to you and me).
The new network will be known as the Property Styling Network and Ann will still retain all right to the House Doctor branding.
With this comes a new website that will be launched the week commencing 14th April 2009. I’ll be able to send you a link once it’s launched.
It’s an exciting new website that will be easier for you to navigate and search for consultants, such as us, within your area.
The new website also makes it easier for you to find a professional consultant by the type of work that you are undertaking:
- Selling
- Letting
- Just Moved In
- Updating
- Cluttered
- Show Home
Of course there will still be loads of information on Ann’s Home Staging courses and 1 day specialist workshops for all those wishing to learn more about our industry or take a break from daily life.
Watch this space for more exciting news and up-to-the-minute information.
***
CLARIDGE & HALL BROS. LTD.
FAMILY BUILDERS SINCE 1890
Claridge & Hall Bros. Ltd. (http://www.claridgeandhall.co.uk/) is a Harpenden family-owned building firm that was established in 1890. That's 119 years of experience and four generations of family!
It's currently owned and run by Bruce Claridge who is a charming gentleman.
Their portfolio of work is both impressive and varied, covering residential and commercial work.
RESIDENTIAL:
In the current economic climate we know that there are many of you re-organising the internal structure of your homes and adding pockets of space through extensions.
We work with Bruce to ensure that any money you invest in your home is wisely spent so that you can maximise the value of your property whilst capitalising on the benefits now, i.e.: it's a great place for you to live now and a great buy for when you come to sell.
Whether you have an old or a new property, a modern loft conversion or a stately home makeover, we can help you achieve your dreams and live the way you've always wanted.
COMMERCIAL:
In the more commercial arena, Bruce and his team have many feathers to their hat with properties covering offices, hotels, restaurants and bars, schools and factories!
Bruce and his reliable workforce are able to do as little or as much of the build as required, i.e.: from the modernisation of toilet facilities through to complete refurbishment of the premises.
We're proud to be working alongside such a reputable builder with a wealth of knowledge and experience. They compliment the quality and professionalism of our own services.
You can find out more about Bruce and his family business by checking out his website at http://www.claridgeandhall.co.uk/.
***
GA INTERIORS
DECLUTTERED – DESIGNED - DELIGHTED
(CONTACT DETAILS)
For further advice or assistance please contact either Gwendoline or Christina using the following details:
GWENDOLINE ALDERTON
CREATIVE INTERIOR DESIGNER (RESIDENTIAL)
Tel: 07841 519802
gwendoline@ga-interiors.co.uk
CHRISTINA GEORGALLA
CREATIVE INTERIOR DESIGNER (COMMERCIAL)
Tel: 07950 401722
christina@ga-interiors.co.uk
www.ga-interiors.co.uk
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