Byline: Carly Harrington
Jun. 15--DUO'S STARTUP FOCUSES ON LIFESTYLE: Life truly can be a bowl of cherries.
That's what Ingrid Gee and her business partner John Hodge believe, if only people had the opportunity to make informed choices about their lives.
In April, the pair launched an online lifestyle resource guide and directory -- www.cherriesforlife.com -- and an accompanying daily talk show called 'Cherries Lifestyle Radio' on the Horne Radio Network 850 AM.
'There's just so many awesome businesses that can help improve someone's life,' Gee said. 'I'm not an expert, but I can put together the people who can.'
The Web site and radio show provide information about health and nutrition, finances, style, entertainment and home life, while promoting what Gee calls 'cherry' businesses.
So far, there are 15 businesses that have been handpicked in their field of expertise for going above and beyond to make sure they provide the best product or service. Gee said she hopes to eventually have between 25 and 30.
The businesses selected are offered a chance to advertise on the Web site and radio show, which is co-hosted by Hodge and Mark Atnip, the voice of the Knoxville Ice Bears hockey team.
'There are other Web sites that market businesses in the area but they will basically take any advertiser,' Gee said. 'I personally meet with every owner, who must have a high standard of excellence within their expertise. And you can tell how someone feels about their product.'
Like most of the businesses they promote, Gee and Hodge are passionate and committed to what they do.
I actually ran into Gee at a Family Business Institute of East Tennessee breakfast this week where she was busy networking and eager to share her business with anyone.
'It's difficult. It's us going out, meeting with businesses every day,' Gee said.
In business now for three months, Hodge said he's pleased with their progress.
'We're certainly anxious to get to the next level, but we've gotten over the hard part,' said Hodge, who also created and hosts the 'Think Again' radio show prior to Cherries radio.
Hodge said the Cherries Web site and radio show provide an affordable option especially for small businesses to get the word out about their services or products.
'We're a small, two-person company trying to get started,' Hodge said.
'We really do want to make people's lives better. If we touch one person a day, we're doing good.'
Small-business owners might find an upcoming workshop on how to write a business plan helpful. The workshop will be held on Monday at the Knoxville Chamber. It is hosted by the Tennessee Small Business Development Center. Cost is $20. To register, call 865-246-2663.
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