Category: Talk Nerdy To Me

Really Big News…

No, I’m not having another baby! But I’ve been working on something almost as challenging, rewarding, and all-encompassing. I’ve launched a new business.

Building on the success of the WordPress and Photoshop workshops I ran back in the spring, I’ve created a separate business for tech skills training. I’m so thrilled to announce the launch of Camp Tech.

I’ve been working for the past two months on developing the brand (special thanks to the wonderful Ox Agency for help), and developing a roster of classes for the fall season. Camp Tech will feature a full lineup of classes and workshops with topics including WordPress, Photoshop, HTML & CSS, eBlast Creation, and Google Analytics & SEO. All the classes will serve Camp Tech’s motto of friendly, fun, practical and professional instruction.

You can read more about Camp Tech and see the full class lineup at CampTech.ca. I really hope to see you at an upcoming workshop!

The Greatest Job Posting I’ve Ever Seen

On Tuesday evening, Tina Roth Eisenberg (aka SwissMiss) tweeted a link to this job posting.  It’s for Photojojo, an online hub and email newsletter for photography info (I love their store for cool photo stuff).  Doesn’t that job posting make you want to go work for them?  While relocating to San Francisco probably isn’t in the cards for me and my family right now, I am tempted to apply…

Headrest Mount for the iPad in the Car

Since we’re going to drive to Montreal for our little trip next month, we’ve decided to get an iPad mount for the car, so Clara can watch movies en route.  Of course, we don’t plan on letting her watch videos the whole time, but if she’s having a total meltdown, it’s Elmo to the rescue.

I did some research to find the best way to mount the iPad in the car, and figured the ones that attach to the back of the headrest is probably the way to go.  I was quite impressed by the Wallee and the Coulvue, but of course, price is also a deciding factor.  So I went and ordered this one made by Arkon.  I’ll let you know how it works out!

Last WordPress Workshop Until the Fall

Hey pals – I’m teaching my popular Website in a Day / WordPress for Beginners workshop again next Saturday, June 16.  I’m not going to run the workshop in July or August, so if you were thinking of taking the course, now’s your last chance until the fall.

I received the most lovely feedback from someone who attended the last workshop:

“I couldn’t have asked for a better way to be taught. You gave only the information needed, and in just the right order, and kept everyone on track at an even pace. Seriously this is one of the best learning experiences on any topic I’ve had in a long time.”

Wow.  That certainly made my day!

If you’d like to learn WordPress so you can make your own website or blog, definitely check out my course.  All the details and registration info is here.  Don’t delay too long though – each time I’ve offered this workshop, it has sold out with a waiting list.

Tech Terms You Can Actually Understand

I often have people ask me what certain tech terms mean, and more and more, I’m turning to Skillcrush for their excellent tech definitions.  Skillcrush is a NYC-based startup that’s working on a series of online tutorials (launching soon).  They have already launched their tech terms section, which has some of the easiest-to-understand-while-still-being-technically-correct definitions I’ve come across.  Check out their explanation of domain, SEO, and web server.  Super great, right?

How to Get Your Business Online If You Can’t Afford a Web Designer

Seems a bit weird for me, a professional web designer, to be offering alternatives to working with a web designer, right?  But honestly, sometimes you really don’t need (or can’t afford) a pro.  For some good tips on how to get your business online without hiring a web professional, check out this article I wrote for the Crave Company.

Want even more info? I’ll be speaking at this event in a couple weeks:

Online Money-Makers
These days you can fulfill all your shopping desires with the click of a mouse. You can purchase those new shoes or the next book club read—even your groceries—online. We love online shopping, but what does it take to run a successful e-commerce business? We will discuss the best way to market an online business, how to connect with clients without in-person face time, and top online merchant systems. With so many options for online shopping, how do you make your product or service stand out?

I’m part of a panel that includes Lisa from RentFrockRepeat and Melanie from Mildred & Doris. Seriously, check out these women’s businesses – so cool.  I’m thrilled to be in their company for the evening.  Full details for the Online Money-Maker event and registration here.

Happy long weekend!

[img cloony goes world wide web by Martin Waldbauer]

Website in a Day – WordPress For Beginners

Hey all you small business owners and aspiring bloggers – I’m teaching a WordPress Workshop on April 28 that you may be interested in. You’ll learn how to build your own website in a day using WordPress. It’s for absolute beginners – no website or design skills needed.  Here are the details – I’d love to have you join me!

Website in a Day (aka WordPress for Beginners)

Saturday April 28,2012
10am – 4pm
720 Bathurst Street, Toronto

$129.00 per person
delicious catered lunch included

Learn how to build a website using WordPress – the popular blog and website publishing platform.  Whether you’re trying to set up a simple website for your small business, a personal blog, or perhaps you use WordPress at work and would like to learn more, this workshop is for you. You’ll learn how to install, customize, and maintain WordPress on your own website.

We will cover:

  • the difference between WordPress.com and hosting WordPress on your site
  • how to install WordPress
  • selecting and installing a WordPress theme
  • building webpages and your site’s menu bar
  • adding a blog to your website
  • plugins and widgets – how to customize WordPress
  • a few lines of code that are handy to know

Bring your laptop, your enthusiasm, and appetite (delicious catered lunch is included!), and by the end of the day, you’ll have built your own website from start to finish.

The workshop is limited to a small group, so there will be lots of time for questions and one-on-one support.

Click Here to Register

The not-so-fine print:

  • Workshop registration is non-refundable, however, your ticket is transferable to a friend or colleague if you can’t make the event at the last minute.
  • You must bring your own laptop and power cord – computers are not provided.

Website Tips for Small Business Owners

It’s not too late to sign up for my first ever web design seminar, Website Tips for Small Business Owners.  The event is taking place THIS Thursday, January 26, from 7-9pm at St. Paul’s Bloor Street.  It’s going to be a casual and interactive workshop, and we’re going to explore the following topics:

Let’s Start with the Basics
An overview of what makes a website attractive, so you end up with a gorgeous site, not a hot mess! Learn the basics of clean layout and website navigation.

Crafting Your Content
Get out that red pen and get ready to cut, slash and edit. We’ll go over some tips on how to write for the web to make sure your message is actually getting through.

Thinking of Going DIY?
Get advice on when you can build a website yourself, and when you’ll need professional help. We’ll look at a few of the DIY options out there (including an overview of WordPress, Etsy, and Shopify).

Don’t Fear the Nerd: How to Find and Work with A Web Professional
Design is a process, not just an end result. Tips on how to find the right web professional for you, and make sure you get the most out of your working relationship.

You’re Online… Now What? How to Keep Your Website Fresh
It might seem like the end, but launching a website is only the beginning. What’s your plan for ongoing site maintenance?

Following the presentation, there will be plenty of time for questions and advice. This seminar is great for small business owners who already have a website (that might need some tuning up), and also for those that are looking to launch a new website.

You can find even more information, and register online here.