I don’t have much time.  How often/how long do I need to workout to see results?

For people who are already in shape, plan to spend 30 minutes a day, 4-6x’s a week of moderate-intense activity. If you’re looking to lose weight or make dramatic changes, you’ll have to invest more time.

What are your favorite exercises that can be done at home without equipment?

The best exercises are the ones that involve multiple muscle groups. Push-ups, dips, planks, squats, lunges, supermans, and abdominal torso rotation are just a few.

What are the benefits of using a trainer versus going the fitness route alone?

There are plenty of 90-day programs out there, but if you were able to see a program like that through to the end you wouldn’t be reading this. Even if you could, a personal trainer could motivate you to do more and to go harder. That means better results…faster!

Are personal trainers affordable?

YES.  If you’re goal is to get in shape and you are unsure about how to start, hire a professional that knows what they’re doing. Would you hire a contractor to build a house, or would you YouTube it and figure it out for yourself? Your body and health is the foundation of life. When it comes to improving your quality of life and building a strong foundation for your future, it’s worth it.

I am intimidated by personal trainers—they seem mean!  How can I make sure I will enjoy my workouts?

I believe the correct term is “tough”. The job of a personal trainer is to prescribe appropriate workouts to their clients and motivate them to achieve personal goals successfully. Our job is more involved than just blowing a whistle and yelling profanity. That’s actually the easy part. Good personal trainers are tough because they want their clients to give maximum effort. When you’re able to squeeze into that little black dress or when you take your shirt off at the beach and all the women start to drool, you’ll thank them for it.

How do I choose a personal trainer?  What questions should I ask?

The best way to find a personal trainer is to ask people who are in great shape. Scope out the gym scene and observe the trainers while they’re doing their thing. If you like a trainer’s style, chances are, they’re right for you.

YuDu would like to thank Nancy Burnham, a personal trainer, running coach, and Crossfit L1 coach, for serving as the resource for this article.  If you would like to learn more about her services, you can email her at neburnham321@gmail.com.

Life Leadership: Your Holiday Survival Kit!

By Laura M. Camacho, PhD

I remember so clearly the first year I felt dread (actually sick at my stomach!), instead of excitement, about the arrival of the holiday season. A time of year that had always been so much fun for me….was now so much work! On top of the Christmas flurry of activities, my middle child, born in December, had become old enough to have certain birthday-party expectations. If I were feeling exhausted already in early December, how would I make it through the 25^th?

I realized then and there I had to take action or else spend the rest of my life dreading the winter holidays. Years later I would work with a coach and refine my system for not just surviving the holidays, but actually enjoying them. This material comes from material I teach in an online “Clarity + Confidence” e-course.

This mini-system is a virtual Holiday Survival Kit (or you might call it a “Holiday Thrival Kit”!)

1. Set an intention.

Intentions are similar to goals but go much deeper. A goal would be buying 25 gifts by December 11, an intention establishes how you want to experience the holidays.

 Examples:

• I wish to experience serenity and joy during the holiday season.
• I wish to deepen relationships with friends and family during this time.
• I wish to creatively celebrate the holidays in a way that refreshes me.

You can write out one statement or several; the idea is to decide in advance how you want to feel during this busy season. One way to think of these intentions is as setting psychic goals. This statement or short list will serve as your guide in deciding which holiday parties to attend, which gifts to buy, how much to decorate, and so forth.

2. Make a budget.

I know this sounds painful, but it’s really trading a short-term inconvenience for longer-term serenity. (Of course you accountants out there may think preparing a budget is great fun!)

How much, really, do you want to spend this month? Are you willing to get into debt (please say “no”!)

Example: You might consider taking Dave Ramsey’s suggestion and paying much of your holiday purchases with cash.

And trust me, your family’s experience of holiday joy is NOT a factor of how much you spend on them. They don’t need to know.

3. Up level your resourcefulness.

This is the natural progression from #2. If you decide to spend less money, you can decide to be more resourceful. Truly, “when there’s a will, there’s a way.”

Example: TJMaxx and Tuesday Morning are glorious places to find great quality, top brands and excellent prices.

You could take this time to pass down a family heirloom. Last year I gave my daughter something from my jewelry box: an emerald and diamond ring for her 16^th birthday (yes, that’s the one born in December!) For boys, an family hunting knife could be a real treasure.

4. Delegate!

Delegating will help you both save money and conserve your energy. Having someone take care of some or a big chunk of your holiday shopping can actually save you a boat load of cash. Someone who is paid to shop for you is not going to spend money on binge shopping, exhaustion shopping or be tempted by items in the check-out line.

Example: Let someone else do the legwork (and the gift wrapping!)

You can also delegate cooking, house cleaning, decorating. It saves you in the long term!

5. Set aside time for yourself.

Unless you carve out time for yourself this month, holiday activities will take over your every moment. Being exhausted or playing the martyr role is not going to make you the life of the party. If you have children in school, it’s probably better to take some time off during the work week. This is an opportune time for PTO, whether you’re employed by someone else or yourself.

Example:

Normally I don’t see clients or schedule meetings for Mondays. During December, I try to keep Friday’s free as well.

BONUS: A FREE 2-week subscription to Mixonian Magnificent Mindset Vitamins.

What the heck are mindset vitamins? These are short and to-the-point daily reminders to keep calm, stay positive and relaxed. These have been a huge hit with Mixonian readers in the U.S., Europe and Latin America. You’ll receive them in your email box early each morning, Monday through Friday for 2 weeks, beginning December 19 – just in time!

To get your FREE 2-week subscription to Mixonian Magnificent Mindset Vitamins, simply send a blank email to info@mixonian.com with your name on it. You’ll need to send this by December 16.

How can a professional photographer capture my wedding memories without interfering with the fun?

The best way to get the most candid and truly emotional images is by being a fly on the wall when photographing a wedding.  There is a fine balance between engaging people so they feel comfortable with a photographer around and then stepping back to allow the natural flow of events to occur.

I don’t have a very big budget—what kind of packages are available for me?

Everyone is tightening their belts with the economy the way it is today.  What I prefer to do with my clients is to listen to their needs and budgets and see how to best utilize my time and maximize the money being spent.  There is so much that goes into planning a wedding, and the photographs are the only thing that will remain as a tangible memory of the day.  I offer everything from one-hour elopement packages complete with a bouquet and officiant to full wedding day packages with albums.  I also offer payment plans so that my clients can tell me how they are most comfortable paying for my services.

What should someone look for when they are hiring a photographer?  What questions should they ask?

When someone is looking to hire a photographer I believe it is important that they feel a sincere connection with the person.  The client is inviting a stranger to share in a day in their life.  There is a trust factor there.  Trust not just in getting great photos, but that the finished product is also handled in a professional and timely manner.  So asking questions about how long they have been in business, whether their photography business is full or part time, how long it takes to see the work, and how much the investment in photos will be after the session are all important.

It is so important that the photographer catch the vision of the client. For me visual storytelling and documenting a day in the life, a wedding or any event can only work its magic when I KNOW my client!

Do you have any picture taking tips that can prevent common mistakes novices make?

One of the biggest mistakes the novice photographer makes is shooting into the sun.  This will make the image you are photographing dark while your background is blown out.  The person taking the photo should always have their back to the sun.  Another tip when taking a photo, especially of a person, is to notice the background.  Some people will take a great photo and there is a tree that looks like antlers on the head of the person in the shot or a building that looks like it is sitting on their head! Notice and focus!  Composition will make your photo.

YuDu would like to thank Lea Dales of Lea Dales Photography for serving as the resource for this article.  For more information, visit her website or give her a call at 843-452-3175.

Cleaning the house does not usually come in at #1 on most people’s list of things they want (key word here—want—not have) to do this weekend.  In fact, I would venture to say it doesn’t even make the top 10!  It is hard to find a chunk of time big enough to get all the cleaning done in so it often gets done room by room, and it can be defeating to feel like you are constantly cleaning but never really achieving a “clean house.”  As if there aren’t already enough hurdles to tackle, how do you decide between the hundreds of cleaning products out there?  More and more products with household names have been cleaning up their acts so to speak.  The professionals at MaidPure offer their tips on the benefits of “green” cleaning, why going with a professional can make sense and how to find the right cleaning company below.

Why should someone use “green” cleaning products?  Are they as effective as regular products?

Why not? They are safer, cheaper and often times more effective. Plus, what’s best, they are safe for you, your loved ones and the environment. The products we use at MaidPure are 100% natural and clean 99.9% bacteria.

Do most cleaning companies tackle one-time cleaning projects (party prep, moving in/out, etc) or is it necessary to have them come in on a regular basis?

Absolutely not! MaidPure is all about pampering our clients whether that be on a regular basis or for a one-time cleaning…but trust me, you’ll be addicted after one cleaning!

What should someone look for/what questions should they ask when choosing a cleaning company?

Choosing a cleaning company is a daunting task! It’s almost as important as choosing a nanny or dog sitter. Trust is a big issue which is why we were honored to have been named “Charleston’s Most Trusted” cleaning company. Other factors to consider when choosing a cleaning company:  Are they licensed? Is their staff contracted out or are they employees of the company? Do they perform background checks? How does the company maintain consistency? MaidPure is licensed, bonded and insured and uses people we would trust in our own homes. Our staff is considered employees of our company and work directly for us.  They are NOT 1099.  Most of our clients enjoy seeing the same smiling faces each cleaning, but if we need to make changes, we notify our clients before their cleaning. What’s more, EVERY job is checked to ensure the utmost quality and perfection.

What are the advantages of using a cleaning company versus doing it yourself?

Using a cleaning company frees up time for you to spend doing other things…think about it this way….how much is your free time worth?

Do you have any cleaning tricks using common products found around the home that you could share?  

There are lots of tricks!  Here are just a few that come to mind:

*Lemon or orange peels in disposal – cleans and give wonderful fragrance

*Cotton balls with essential oils in your vacuum for a wonderful aroma around the house.

*Club soda on windows

*Olive oil on furniture…use sparingly!

*Dryer sheets in your pockets to ward off mosquitoes!

There are so many great tips to share….follow us on Twitter and we’ll give you a tip a day!

YuDu would like to thank the professionals at MaidPure for serving as the resource for this article.  For more information or to schedule a cleaning, check out their website or give them a call at 843-284-8272.

Orchestrating a get together of more than a handful of people can be a monumental task requiring lots of planning, shopping trips to multiple stores, and days of food prep.  Not to mention the coordination required to make sure the house is clean, the food and drinks are set up and ready for the first guest, and that you’ve had time to shower and get ready.  With all of the stress that goes into party planning it can be hard for the host or hostess to find the time to relax, have fun and enjoy their guests—which is precisely why we have parties in the first place!  This is where a professional catering company can help. Casey Crites, with Foodeze Executive Caterers, shares some helpful tips for making sure your next party is a much less stressed success!

Should people who are having a small gathering (say 25 people or less) consider catering some or all of the food?

Absolutely. When you factor in the time and finances it takes to put together even a small gathering of friends and family such as planning the menu, purchasing the ingredients, preparing the food and setting up the space, the cost of hiring a catering company is often more economical than going it alone. Throw in the added benefit of enjoying your guests instead of constantly having to make sure things are running smoothly and catering, even for small groups, makes even more sense.

How should someone decide what to make themselves versus use a caterer for?

It does depend on the type of gathering you are planning. If you are interested in doing a small, at – home gathering for a few friends and you are interested in contributing, then having a caterer come in and take care of the main dishes would be a good option and the host/ess can contribute some side dishes and/or sweets that are easily prepared in advance. If, however, you are planning a more formal gathering with a larger crowd, then I recommend having the entire event catered.

Can catering be affordable?

Yes! The key is to find a caterer that is able to work within your budget. At Foodeze, for example, we take great measures to create custom menus to fit any price point.   When putting together a menu, I always make sure to include a few pricier items that will truly wow your guests and then fill in with other selections that are still very tasty, but more economical.

What are the advantages of using a caterer as opposed to making food yourself?

The main advantage is a reduced stress level and having the time to enjoy your company as opposed to worrying about all the small details.  This is especially true when hosting larger gatherings.

Do you have any suggestions for people who have difficulty choosing a menu?

First, I suggest that you select items that you enjoy.  As much as you are trying to satisfy and entertain your guests, you also want to make sure that you are pleasing yourself.   Choose one or two items to start with, and then ask your caterer for suggestions that would compliment your choices.

YuDu would like to thank Casey Crites of Foodeze Catering for serving as the resource for this article. Check out their website or email Casey at casey@foodezecatering.com for more information.

To some people, the idea of redecorating the living room or remodeling their kitchen gets their creative juices flowing with the thousands of possibilities that the space could take on.  For the rest of us, these types of projects can be overwhelming because of all the choices that exist or because we lack the vision needed to picture the end result.  Perhaps you have a particular style you like but don’t know how to implement the look in a cost-effective or practical way, or maybe you just don’t have the time to spend scouring the stores and internet in search of the perfect pieces to complete the room.  Regardless of your design dilemma, it might make sense to bring in an interior design professional.  A professional can use their vast resources and experience to ensure you explore all of the options (and stay within budget!) so that you end up with a room you love for years to come.  Need help deciding whether to approach an interior designer in the first place?  Read on for some great advice on when to seek the help of a professional.

1. What kind of redecorating projects should someone tackle on their own and which are best left to a professional?

Any type of project that requires interior architecture, built-ins, and other fixed elements are best left to an interior designer.  A good example would be rooms like kitchens and baths that require a lot of design features.  Those rooms require cabinetry, wall coverings, fixtures, and countertops that once chosen are not easily changed like an accent pillow or lamp.  A design professional can help make these kinds of selections so that everything falls into place seamlessly without a less than satisfied outcome.  An interior designer is able to see the individual elements together as a whole; how they will relate and coordinate with other aspects in the room, which is often hard for people to visualize.

Projects that present a difficult design solution are also best left to a professional.  If someone is stuck or confused on how to decorate a space due to strange architectural details, a multipurpose space that needs to be utilized in the most functional way, or there are certain elements already established that are making it difficult to find a solution, an interior designer is a good person to bring in for help.  It’s a challenge, but a fun one, when a designer has multiple variables and goals to accomplish in a design project.  It is our job to take all requests and requirements into account and make them a reality.

2. What information or ideas should people have with them when they first sit down with an interior designer?

Explain what type of project it is, i.e. kitchen or bath renovation, updating a bedroom, or redecorating the first floor of the house.  There are three key points that a potential client should be ready to discuss with an interior designer.

First, explain what activities need to take place in the space, how the space needs to function, and who will use the space once completed.

Second, give an idea of the overall feel and look desired in end.  What type of design style, color scheme, and existing pieces are to be reused in the space?

Third, be thinking of a budget that you are comfortable with.  It can be hard to estimate exactly what a project will cost, but it’s helpful tostart out with a ballpark figure.  Evaluate the amount you would like to spend and be upfront from the beginning.  An interior designer can help determine if the project is feasible due to the budget and if not give ideas and solutions for ways to make it happen.

3. How can someone be sure they are selecting an interior designer that they will work well with and that will carry out their vision? (i.e. what questions should they ask when interviewing)

Do your research.  Ask for referrals.  Once you have a few in mind, check out a designers website, look at their portfolio and type of work, and see if they are listed in any local design magazines.

You want to find a designer that meshes will with your personality.  The interview is not just a time for you to learn about their expertise, but also a time to feel them out and see if they work well with you.

Some questions to ask are:

Is the project doable with the allotted space?

How long will it take to complete the project?

What is the next step after our initial consultation?

4. I have a small decorating budget, should I even consider getting the help of an interior designer?  Is there such thing as too small a project?

Yes, you should consider using an interior designer even if your budget is small.  At Ink Interiors no project is too small or too big.  Many people think that hiring a designer is going to cost more because of design fees, but if you are upfront with a designer from the start, they should be able to accommodate your budget.  Interior Design fees are different among designers, so where one might be to high for a small, price conscious budget, another may be able to do it because of a different fee structure.

An interior designer can help facilitate a small budget because we know where to best source furnishings and fixtures.  Our wealth of knowledge and abundant resources can help guide a client to get the best bang for their buck.

5. How do you tell an interior designer you don’t like what they’ve picked out for you without hurting their feelings?

You just have to be up front.  Interior Designers try really hard to get to know the client and their personal taste.  We want the space to reflect the client when finished, not the interior designer.  There are instances, however, when a client may not like something simply because they don’t, and the designer has no way of really knowing.  If this is the case, speak up.  It’s your space and you should love every part of it.

It’s important to let a designer know if you do not like something, but also important to listen as to why they selected it. It might play a big roll on the overall look of the space.  If it’s something you really don’t like, then it should be replaced, but often times once the designer gives an explanation it might make more sense.

6. If I don’t have a whole room or house to re-do does it make sense to consult an interior designer?  What if I only need a few pieces of furniture spread across several different rooms in the house?

Not all design projects have to include decorating an entire house.  Addressing one room or space at a time is perfectly doable.  If you want a professional opinion and someone with a trained eye, then you should consider consulting an interior designer.  No project is too small or insignificant.

YuDu would like to thank Jesse Phipps of ink Architecture LLC for serving as the resource for this article.  For more information, visit their website or call 843.882.7810.

There is no doubt that caring for aging family members can take an emotional and mental toll on everyone involved. Most people feel more comfortable in their own homes, and when feasible, arranging for in-home care of the elderly is a wonderful option that can help a person feel more in control of their life and circumstances. Regardless of whether you are an out-of-town relative who is looking for full-time in-home help for a loved one or a local family who plan to be extremely involved in the day-to-day care, choosing an in-home eldercare service can be a daunting task.  The following informative tips from the professionals at Home Care Plus can help get you started with this difficult process.

How and why should someone make the difficult choice of using an in-home eldercare service versus caring for their loved ones themselves?

It is not always realistic for someone to take on sole responsibility for caring for an elderly family member. Jobs and other family obligations make it difficult to dedicate as much time as one would like. Families who want to help aging parents live life as fully and safely as possible in the comfort of their own home, but who might not have the knowledge, skills or time to do the job alone can benefit from an eldercare service.  In addition, long distance caregivers who need a local liaison to oversee care and notify them of problems will find these services extremely valuable.

Can people who want to remain actively involved in caring for their loved ones use an in-home eldercare service for certain functions only or on a “part-time” basis?

This is certainly an option.  A good eldercare service provides a solution for everything from personal care and homemaking to companionship and transportation.  The family members involved can determine which services to utilize based on the kind of time and support the family can provide on a routine basis.

Which tasks do you recommend people seek expert help with versus handling themselves?

This is a very personal decision that every family must make.  A registered nurse can provide an individualized plan of care based on the unique needs of the client, a task that may not be possible for someone without training or medical expertise. Caregivers that are experienced and have specialized disease training, terminal and palliative specialized sensitivity training, and enhanced training on health and safety tips (i.e. Fall Prevention, nutrition, safe lifting techniques, etc.) offer a level of care and attention that can help the client maintain a safe and comfortable way of life at home.  That being said, close involvement of friends and family in the care of the elderly makes a world of difference, and the value of offering companionship, helping around the house with chores and meals, or simply providing transportation to appointments cannot be overlooked.

What certifications, qualifications, service offerings, etc should people look for when considering an in-home eldercare service?

It is important to look at how much experience the staff of the eldercare service has in in-home care, as well as the type of training they receive. Ask how long a company has been in business and if the staff is bonded and insured.  Are they available to answer any questions or concerns you have and is there someone on call 24 hours a day should an emergency arise? It is always a good idea to ask for references.

YuDu would like to thank Suzy Kuppens, RN BSN, from Home Care Plus for serving as the resource for this article. Please visit their website or call 843.628.3642 for more information.

What aspects of a financial strategy make sense for people to handle themselves?

At the ground level, it’s a good idea to have a handle on your budget and overall cash flow— you should be aware of where your money is coming from and where it’s going. An advisor will be able to provide some worksheets and materials to facilitate this process, and an excellent (and free!) online resource is www.mint.com. From a big picture perspective, it’s great to see people that have taken the time to understand their core values and unique life goals. When it’s time to consult a professional, being able to effectively articulate what’s important and why will help determine and validate the best course of action going forward.

When (at what age or at what point in their careers) should people start thinking about their retirement?

As soon as possible with conditions. Even if you’re just getting started or don’t have much contribute, the power of tax deferred gains and compounding interest over time is significant. Unfortunately, we’re at a point where the consumer is becoming more responsible for their retirement income and long-term health care expenses; therefore, the earlier you take action the better. The conditions are primarily a function of priority as it relates to developing a financial strategy. In short, this process addresses the “controllables” in this order: cash flow, risk management, accumulation, and distribution. If you are maxing out your 401K at work but don’t have an adequate emergency fund in place and something comes up (assuming you’re younger than 59 ½), you’ll either be forced to take an early distribution from the 401K with a 10% penalty on top of the income tax or put it on plastic; neither of which are a good option. Shifting gears to risk management, in real-world situations and case studies it’s not uncommon to see people effectively plan for retirement but fail to properly mitigate the risk of a premature death or loss of income during the accumulation years.

The next most important question beyond ‘when?’ is ‘which one?’ It’s imperative to know the differences and opportunities associated with the different qualified plans such as a 401K / 403B, Roth IRA, Traditional IRA, SEP, SIMPLE, etc. One of the hottest topics currently is the taxation of future distributions from qualified plans. Although the future tax environment is unknown, having a strategy that can hedge your exposure to income tax down the road is key.

What are the benefits of using a financial advisor versus trying to manage your money yourself?

If managing your own finances without assistance interrupts time with loved ones and the things that are most important, think about seeking the assistance of a financial professional and get back to what matters. Educating yourself is a great thing and if you’re selective, there are great websites, books, and speakers that can be a valuable resource. That being said, most mistakes are made in the lack of execution, practical application of suitable products and holdings, and not building a customized strategy that meets your specific needs. Last but certainly not least, most people have a certain bias towards their own personal situations and their finances are no different. Finding an independent advisor or firm with the proper designations and team of specialists who provide advice tailored to your situation will simultaneously help allow you the time and lifestyle you desire while increasing your probability of success.

What is the value of a full service broker versus using a discount online trading platform?

Many of the online platforms have come a long way with technology, research capabilities, and operational integrity; seldom does ‘discount’ mean ‘less sophisticated’. The E*Trades of the world have provided the general consumer the opportunity to get more involved with their research and trading which is a great thing. It goes without saying that a professional broker brings value to the table and may have access to holdings or knowledge that you and I may not; this all comes at a price of course. Try not to think in terms of ‘this is too expensive’, but rather ‘am I getting what I’m paying for?’ If the answer is no, that means it’s too expensive.

Is there a minimum amount of money that someone should have before they consider using a financial advisor or planner?

Certain advisors, institutions, money managers, and platforms do have a minimum account value associated with participation for various reasons. There are many advisors that do not have a minimum requirement or operate on a fee-based or fee-only agreement as well. I would recommend seeking independent and professional guidance for which one works best for your particular needs and why. People come in and out of money on a daily basis and the proverbial ‘market’ is beyond our control. Find a professional that understands your unique life goals and shares similar values, and you will create a relevant relationship that has little to do with numbers and everything to do with parity.

YuDu would like to thank Jon Carroll, financial advisor with Commonwealth Financial Group, for serving as the resource for this article. For more information, visit www.commonwealthfg.com or drop Jon email at Jon.Carroll@commonwealthfg.com.

Registered Representative and Investment Advisory Representative.  Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through Securian Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Commonwealth Financial Group is independently owned and operated.  Neither Securian Financial Services, Inc. nor Commonwealth Financial Group are affiliated with YuDu, or the other companies listed on this site.  DOFU 4/29/11 316183

The responsibility for overseeing one’s financial situation and making financial decisions cannot be delegated to a Financial Advisor.  A Financial Advisor can work with a client to educate them on financial matters, and help them make quality financial decisions, but those financial decisions must be made by the client. This information should not be considered as tax advice.  You should consult your tax advisor concerning your own tax situation.

Despite the obvious benefits of good bookkeeping, if the thought of torture is more appealing to you, you should consider yourself the perfect candidate for delegating this task to a professional!  Even if you are a whiz with numbers, bookkeeping is a time-consuming task that requires diligent, error-proof attention, which, quite frankly, most small business owners have little of to spare. While you don’t have to outsource all aspects of your company’s bookkeeping, it makes sense to weigh the pros and cons of keeping some or all of it in-house versus seeking the help of a professional. Read on for some great tips on bookkeeping from the professionals at Gage Bookkeeping.

What advice do you have for small business owners attempting to do their own bookkeeping?

First things first—take a basic bookkeeping course. It also makes sense to have a professional bookkeeper come in and determine what your bookkeeping needs are. The bookkeeper can then set up your bookkeeping system based on the specific needs of your business and train you or a staff member on the bookkeeping system. The hardest part is dedicating time to bookkeeping on a regular basis. Be sure to block time daily or weekly to post every financial transaction your company performs in your bookkeeping system.

What are the benefits of outsourcing to a professional bookkeeper?

There are many advantages to outsourcing bookkeeping aside from saving your sanity! It can help you save money. You pay a trained professional who provides accurate financial data for only the services you need. You save on full time salaries, benefits and accounting fees. It also allows you to keep your focus—as a business owner, you know your business best, and building your business should be your top priority. Ever wonder why you are not making a profit? Having your books in order allows you to clearly see where improvement is needed, which can help improve cash flow. There may come a time come when you need a loan, and it’s crucial to have accurate financial data. Filing taxes is a breeze when you have a bookkeeper maintain your books year round. It also offers peace of mind—giving you security that you know the financial status of your business at all times and that your records are in order for the bank and IRS.

Can I keep some of the bookkeeping in house and outsource the rest?

Many businesses outsource only a part of their bookkeeping. For the do-it-yourselfer, consider keeping the following as in-house bookkeeping operations: paying bills, invoicing clients, and making deposits. Leave the bank and credit card reconciliations to the bookkeeper, as they will have an objective eye to determine any discrepancies. Request that the bookkeeper generate financial statements to determine your financial position for a given time period (monthly, quarterly, year to date) to help you plan your cash flow.

YuDu would like to thank Deborah Gage from Gage Bookkeeping LLC for serving as the resource for this article. For more information, check out her website at

www.gagebookkeeping.com or email her at dgagebooks@gmail.com.

Spring is in the air, and the beautiful sunshine and warm temperatures have almost everyone itching to get outside and enjoy Mother Nature.  One of the first places people head is their backyard—for cookouts with friends and family, a game of catch with the kids or with a chair and a good book for some relaxation.  A yard is a gathering place as well as the “first impression” people get of your home, and spring is the perfect time to get it in shape for the rest of the year. Whether you have a green thumb or get the hives when you step into a garden shop, the following pointers from the professionals at AAA Lawncare will inspire you to get out and garden (or bring in a professional to do it for you!).

What are some tips for getting your lawn and landscape ready for Spring?

It’s time to “spring clean” your lawn—pick up all leaves, trim the shrubs, mulch all plant beds, tune your landscape equipment and apply spring pre-emergent before March to help prevent grassy weeds from seeding and coming into the turf grass.  After March, apply fertilizer and weed control to encourage growth as well as to fight any weeds that the pre-emergent didn’t get under control.

What value would a professional bring to the table?

As with most jobs around the house, keeping your lawn looking good is time-consuming. Aside from giving you more free time to focus on projects you might enjoy more, a professional comes on a regular schedule.  Many do-it-yourselfers have trouble finding the time to mow the lawn, much less trim hedges, weed gardens, and weed eat.  Regular maintenance keeps projects manageable and the lawn healthy and looking great. Professionals bring expert and factual knowledge of grasses and shrubs and the ability to foresee things that need to be done when something is going wrong, which can save time and money by catching potential problems early on. Professionals typically guarantee their work, whereas when a homeowner does the work themselves and it is not done right, they have exhausted a lot of time and money for a project not finished or done correctly.

I want to landscape my yard, but I have no idea where to begin!

Drive around your neighborhood and check out lawn and garden magazines to get ideas of the look you want to achieve.  Keep in mind that not all vegetation will thrive in the Lowcountry, and a professional can help you choose plants that are easy to maintain and hardy.  Some great turf options are Centipede, St. Augustine and Bermuda, while Azaleas, Oleanders, Gardenias, and Crepe Myrtles are flowering shrubs that bloom at different times of the year and can be used to create a colorful landscape.  Boxwoods and palmetto trees and shrubs are good choices for lining driveways and walkways.  Most of these plants require minimal maintenance. It is important to manage your expectations with a landscaping project—it takes time for turf grasses and shrubs to grow.  When using a professional, be sure to walk the property and have them map out what they plan to do.  Communication is key to ensuring you get the result you desire!

YuDu would like to thank Joshua Bannister from AAA Lawn Care Specialists LLC for serving as the resource for this article.  For more information, call 843.819.0612 or email Joshua at aaalawnguy@gmail.com.