Spreading my wings a little further….

So many of you have been there before.  Wearing the same clothes you wore a decade ago because they don’t have holes and they still (mostly) fit. Trends have changed and you have been too busy living your life to look up long enough to notice. 

Well friends, this has happened to me, as well; but in the form of my website!  My first website was very basic…  I didn’t know very much about what I wanted in a website and I was scared of this new avenue that would help me reach my clients.  I had built my business solely on word of mouth for over (at the time) 20 years, why did I need to add this to the list of stress?

 

About five years ago, my website received a total transformation.  I worked very hard with my webmaster to get the exact look I wanted, spending hours searching for the perfect photograph.  I was at a point where I had learned the value of an online presence and had enough knowledge to take the necessary step of “reorganizing” my website.

In the last year alone, Transformations By Maria has really taken off; and I am so grateful to be involved with so many clients and friends as their consultant and coach with some of the most intimate things they could share – their wardrobe and their need for guidance .  It slowly became clear that I needed my own consultation and assessment, and it was time to create a new website “outfit”!

Earlier this year, I reached out for a consultation of my website, and after a plan was developed I released it to the professional.  The plan was to create a website that was a custom fit for the needs of my clients – both for those that have been clients for 30 years and for clients I have yet to meet.

Tonight, I am excited to share with you that my new website has gone LIVE!  Everything is finally together in one place, the description of my services, my blog, On The Rocks Boutique, my testimonials, and more!  It was truly exciting to be able to file away so many “stock” photos from my previous website and replace them with real photos – photos of my clients.

I hope that you will take a look at the new site, and please send me your feedback.  Thank you for being a part of this journey, and I can’t wait to see what the next 30 years has in store!

Check it out here: www.TransformationsByMaria.com

 

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One of my clients, Irma, shared this testimonial on my website in March, but I wanted to share it and include her “before” photo and a few “after” photos because I know that what she felt prior to calling me is not uncommon!

“What can I say.  I feel good (like the song)!  I thought a lot before calling Maria, as I am always mindful of the family budget.  There I was once again in my closet, this time after work, trying to figure out what to wear for a date with my hubby.  After trying on several things, I threw on a hoodie over some shirt, kept my baggy work pants and running shoes and once again I felt frumpy.

I finally called her.  Right away she was teaching and I was soaking it up and beginning to feel more secure, more like myself.  We went shopping and she quickly found stuff that fit!  A few days later I was shopping and found a dress within 10 mins of stepping in the store, snapped a pic and sent it for her thoughts and she enthusiastically approved!  I felt good and our adventure has just begun!  Highly recommended!”

Irma and I first looked at what she already owned, and found a few pieces that would work very well together for her body.  Our goal was to give her a slimming, elongated look, and we accomplished this in the photo below by pushing up the sleeves, wearing the jacket open, and having a pop of color – one better suited for her skin tone.

 

Then, we went shopping together and I showed her what to look for when choosing a core wardrobe for her GPS (Great Personal Style) – a collared shirt to frame her face, darts in the blouse to slim her body, and fitted pants:

We left the store with about 10-15 new items for Irma’s wardrobe (and at a great discount, too!) and Irma showed a confidence in herself that had been tucked away.  Finally, the clothes aren’t wearing her, she’s wearing them!

One thing Irma was really missing was a proper pair of shoes.  I gave her a description of what kind of shoe she needed, and, while she was shopping without me, she used Instant Image to confirm her choices before she bought them:

The next day, excited to take what she had learned, Irma went shopping for a dress to wear at an upcoming event.  Again, she sent me an Instant Image  – and WOW!

I was so proud of Irma and how she applied what she learned from our sessions together!  I don’t think she will be wearing a hoodie for a date night with her husband anytime soon!

Hello! My name is Catherine Basu and I’m one of Maria’s clients. I absolutely love Maria. She’s an amazing and talented stylist, tailor, businesswoman, life coach and friend. I have been on a bit of a personal roller coaster ride since I moved to Houston, TX from Massachusetts in June. Maria has been instrumental in helping me transform and take back control of my life. Maria not only provided me with the services that I hired her for but she also inspired me to make the transition from a career that was not working out for me to one that I’m passionate about.

I’m very excited to be starting my own fitness business here in Houston. Fitness is my passion and I love sharing this with anyone and everyone I can. I’ve been working in the fitness industry for 6 years, however, I took a break from working full-time in fitness to coach and teach science. After meeting and working with Maria, I was inspired to get back to this passion full time. I’d like to share my story and also verbalize how grateful I am for Maria’s genuine advice and support.

In June, I finished my second year of teaching Biology and coaching track and field at a public high school in Massachusetts. Once the last bell rang, I began driving down to Texas to meet my husband in Houston where we had relocated for new opportunities and to flee the cold winters, of course. I unpacked as quickly as I could but when it came to my closet I felt frustrated. I had a lot of clothes I knew I wouldn’t wear anymore, or at least not in Houston. I felt like I had no room and after moving too many times in the previous years, I felt like I finally deserved to be able to organize my belongings. I did not want to be living out of boxes anymore.

Luckily, I found Maria and called her to help me organize my closet and sort through my wardrobe at the start of the school year. I knew that I would be very busy once the school year started. As an experienced teacher I knew that being disorganized at home would make my day-to-day life very challenging. Additionally, the position I had accepted was at a school that was more demanding than most schools and I really would not have the time to waste finding an outfit in the morning.

Maria came over twice to help me weed out items in my wardrobe that were worn or not flattering and to help tailor some items.  She also organized my closet so that I could find the clothes I kept and not feel overwhelmed. After the first two visits, I had Maria come over another time to show me a few items she thought I would like and to help my husband with a pair of pants he needed to have hemmed. By this time I had already started teaching at my new school. During that visit, Maria and I were chatting and finishing up when at 9:30 PM my cell phone rang. It turned out to be a student calling me about help on an assignment. Maria could not believe that students called me this late but I explained that the school’s philosophy was to have teachers available to the students at any time that they needed. Maria has a way of really connecting to clients and since I already felt very comfortable with her, I confided in her some of the other details of my work situation that were unusual and were a burden to my life. I was teaching at a school where I had an ever changing curriculum, no textbooks, a class of 40 students (and yes, just me as the teacher!), etc. Needless to say, Maria was very concerned about me, my health, and my safety after hearing these details. My husband and family had also expressed concerns, but it really hit home hearing it from Maria who had an outside perspective that confirmed that the job wasn’t normal and that my employer was taking advantage of me.

In December, 2012 my position at the school ended. As a teacher, it is hard to find work the middle of the year so my husband and I threw around the idea of doing fitness and tutoring full time  I called Maria to get another perspective and Maria not only encouraged me and offered ideas and help with logistics but she also noted that I sounded a lot happier just talking about these options. Her willingness to help and offer support gave me the confidence and the faith to know that I could make my passion into my future career. I visited my family for the Christmas holiday and when I got back to Houston, I started making inquiries and getting back into fitness. After returning, my husband and I met with Maria in January (he needed to get pants hemmed and I wanted to say hi to Maria). Maria was very excited that I was going to pursue this new path and commented how she could see from my demeanor that I was in a much better place. She told me that her own business was not originally intended to be what it has become now and once again encouraged me as I set out on my journey. Maria also mentioned that some of her other clients might be interested in increasing their health and wellness.

I’m now teaching Pilates and Spinning classes and working with Personal Training clients again. I’ve been able to continue helping students by working as a tutor. Tutoring has been a really amazing experience for me (especially when I get to help students conquer Chemistry, my old enemy!) and it has helped me continue to work with students but without some of the burdens of being a full time teacher.

I’d love to help you incorporate fitness into your life. I love seeing people succeed in their fitness goals and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. I’m very excited to be able to embark on this new journey especially here in Houston since we can enjoy the outdoors even in the winter!

Check out my website for upcoming events and classes. In addition to my personal events, I also offer private fitness classes and health and wellness solutions for businesses.

If you would like to schedule a free fitness consultation please e-mail me. I’d love to meet you.

Email
Cell: 508-439-3577
Facebook
Twitter

Weekly Classes: I currently teach fitness classes for a company that works in apartment communities. Contact me to see if your community is on my schedule. If you live in an apartment and want to have classes brought to you, contact me to learn more.

Monday:  Pilates@6:45 PM
Tuesday: Bootcamp@6:30 PM
Wednesday: Spinning@ 6PM and FitPT @7:15 PM
Saturday: Pilates@9:45 AM

Coming soon…
If you are interested in any of these listed below, please send me an e-mail to help me pick the best class times!
Pilates and Bootcamp at The Houston Arboretum!
Bridal and Summer Bootcamp at Memorial/Herman/Your favorite parks

I am so excited to share this news with everyone – Are you sitting down?

The growth and demand of our custom design jewelry has resulted in a “revamp” of our online boutique!  The mission is simple:  To Make A Statement with Natural Beauty.

Already, we have listed pendants made of natural stones and hand wrapped in either sterling silver or gold,  stylish necklaces to add a fun ‘pop’ to your outfit, and PEARLS!  You know, the great thing about the natural stones is that they are products of NATURE, and therefore each one is a little different and can easily dress up or accentuate your “GPS” (Great Personal Style).   I personally select each natural stone that is used in our custom jewelry and decide if the stone should be accented with sterling silver or gold, hand wrapped or if it should be inlaid in sterling silver, if there should be a delicate rope frame around the stone, and so much more.  Each piece is unique beyond the stone itself, and that is what keeps this so fun and exciting for both myself and my clients!

A lot of the pieces that we have listed so far were selected for more than just their beauty; we chose pieces that can be worn with a variety of outfits – because a beautiful necklace should pair well with more than one top or color, don’t you agree?

Take a look – and check back often because this is barely 25% of what we have in stock.

And remember:  Always mix your Faux and your Real!

This song is very special to me, and encapsulates the entire idea behind Transformations by Maria. It was written for all of you, and gives you a glimpse into the process of transforming — inside and out — while finding your GPS (Great Personal Style). This is the transformation that will take place with the three winners of the GPS Transformation contest, as well as others who call me to begin their transformations.

These are my words and feelings, which were given to Joanie Hendricks. She used her songwriting talents to write this beautiful song, then played it on her ukelele to accompany Laura’s lovely voice. I’m blessed to be able to get my message out through their talents. Please enjoy!

If you are signed up to receive emails from The Loft to learn of their latest sales, trends, and promos, then you probably saw this one last week:

This email is misleading on so many levels, it’s no wonder so many women have a hard time shopping!

Did you know that a lot of people look terrible in yellow? The undertones in a person’s skin determines this, therefore it is not a great choice to have in an email promoting the purchase of a yellow top.

These emails are created by the marketing team – they are thinking about selling trends, not about what will look good on someone. The viewer is led to believe that these items pictured are versatile – but look at the variety of color and pattern? These pieces are not easily matched, and therefore are not pieces for your core wardrobe.

Core Wardrobe

• Black, Gray, or Tweed pant
• Black Skirt
• Blouse
• Shell
• Black Jacket

Now, let’s talk cost.

They want you to spend $39 on an item that is not versatile. Take a look at the plaid pants. What would you pair them with? Black, white, …maybe red. That’s it. They are offering three “easy” pieces and all I see are three nightmare pieces. How frustrating! Friends, how many times have you gone into the fitting room with three sizes of the same pant? The size you think you are, and the size above and below. AND, if it’s not the right style for your body, they are all a “no” – Don’t subject yourself to three rejections. Learn how to gauge the match between the item of clothing and your body while the item is still on the hanger. Can you imagine how much more efficient your shopping experience would be? One session with me will teach you everything I know – and I offer the added bonus of Instant Image Consulting (clients said they wished I was in their back pocket while they shopped, so we made it happen)!

Let me ask you: How many times have you wasted your money on clothes? It’s time to spend your money on learning and make the investment that will stop you from wasting your time and money at the store — two things we can all agree are precious commodities these days.

Perhaps it is because I find that Education is one of the most important things in this world, but I can’t help but relate this to a class. You go to school to learn about life and your career, why would you neglect the opportunity to be educated in the knowledge of finding yourself in the items you put on your body to represent the person you are? How can you dress the part?

Don’t take the test without studying – Usually, when someone does, they do not do well, find themselves beating themselves up about it, start to hate it, and have an overall distaste for the situation. It affects multiple aspects of their life.

Spend your money on your basic core, not trends!

Sometimes, you have a strong feeling that pushes you to do something big and you aren’t 100% sure why. You think that you know why – you hope that you know why – admit it, it’s nice to know why — but sometimes, you just have to trust your gut and go with it, believing that God will show you the reason when it is time.

My business brings me to the closet of my clients. Many times, they own clothes that are in great condition – but they are not the right fit/color for the client. I have always known that there are always people in need, and I have finally been able to set up the “donation” part of my business to truly use my services for the good of everyone. (Remember my We’ve Been There post?)

Here are two photos of clothes being sorted by size in my garage (notice the awesome cords holding the rods!!)

Uncle Bob’s Self Storage has generously donated a climate controlled storage unit for the “donation” services of Transformations By Maria (and a truck, to help me move the items!!), and last weekend, we began customizing the space to get ready for everything that has been pouring in from clients.

Little did I know that I would have an opportunity so soon to help an entire family.

This past Friday evening, January 25th, a benefit was held to help the Shotwell family, who lost everything in a house fire in the very early morning hours (estimated around 1 a.m.) on January 14th.

This precious flyer was made by the Shotwell’s 11 year old nephew:

Riyad Abu Taha, a man I have known for over 20 years, organized the benefit, which was held at Skewer’s Mediterranean Grill. Skewer’s was kind enough to donate 20% of all food sales to the Shotwell family, and the Austin Fire Department donated $1,000 to the family. Amira Tanya performed her belly dancing talents (She teaches classes and I got her card – watch out!) and it very quickly turned into a celebration acknowledging that the entire Shotwell family got out of the house in time (Sadly, two of their three dogs did not make it).

Here are a few photos from the night:

Riyad presenting Van Shotwell with donations.

Van Shotwell came to our table and visited with me, my husband, daughter, and “2nd daughter”

On Saturday, Van posted on her Facebook:

I was super worn out last night from hanging out with my family and friends (who are also my family) at Skewers.

Riyad Abu-Taha was fantabulous with how quickly he put this event together and gave The Shotwells a night to remember. Thank you Riyad!

Hadi (not sure of the spelling), the owner of Skewers, was so gracious and kind to allow us to take over the restaurant. The food was delicious. Thank you Hadi!

The vibrations from the restaurant was filled with excitement, support, understanding, peace, hope and love.

I saw friends from high school, friends from my very first job when I was 15, and friends from the film (entertainment) industry. I made new friends and I was able to hug my “support sisters”.

I feel so loved! Thank you to everyone who was able to be there and thank you to those who were with us in spirit. I love and appreciate you all. I don’t know how to express my love and appreciation any more than saying thank you, but thank you just doesn’t seem to be enough.

I ask for multitude of blessings to be bestowed to each and every one of you.

From my heart to yours,
Van

The Shotwells are in the process of rebuilding and are trying to get their identity back before they can proceed.

If you would like to make a donation, please let me know – or you can mail it to:

P.O. Box 2922

Alvin, TX 77512-2922

Kat Crawford is a beautiful 18 year old Houston woman who has been diagnosed with Neurocardiogenic Syncope, a heart condition which causes her to randomly pass out multiple times in a day. Quick internet research will show you that, currently, the cause of this disease is unknown.

Kat spends a majority of her day in a wheel chair, partially for protection from the sudden pass outs, and also because the frequency of them drains her energy. Her father passed away in 2011 and her mother left her job so take care of Kat.

The incidents are unpredictable. Well, unpredictable to a human.

On December 27th, Kat received Beau, a chocolate labradoodle who displays qualities of being able to be trained to sense when Kat is about to pass out, alert her, and guide her to a safe place to sit down. That is impressive! A fundraiser was held a couple days later in Tomball, Texas, for Kat and Beau to raise money for the purchase of Beau (as we can all imagine, a puppy that is capable of doing something so incredible through training is expensive), as well as maintaining his training, health and well-being as he becomes her companion through this exciting journey.

I heard about Kat and the fundraiser from my friend Linda, manager at Scruples Boutique, who had plans to attend. After hearing Kat’s story, I knew I had to get involved! I was unable to attend the fundraiser, however Linda was kind enough to take my items for the silent auction.  One item I donated was a wonderful blouse by Dallas designer Finley.  The second item was TransformationsByMaria Two Hours of Transformation – a certificate for Personal Shopping and/or Image Consultation with me.  It was a very successful day, thanks to the many contributions of all kinds!

At the end of the fundraiser, it was announced that, between the silent auction and the raffle, $14,000 was raised for Kat and Beau!! Take a look at this heartwarming photo of Kat, her mom, and Beau when it was announced:

It is Kat’s goal to train with Beau and gradually become more independent, as she has hopes to attend college in August. In the near future, Beau will be learning how to do amazing things, including:
-Pulling Kat in her wheelchair.
-Bring her needed items on demand.
-Help open doors.
-Go get help if she needs it.

Kat recently posted on her Facebook Page that her and Beau were training at Target and, at 10 weeks old, he knew that she was going to pass out.

Despite this amazing event, Kat and Beau still have a long ways to go. Kat has found a doctor in Dallas that is a specialist and determined to figure out how to help her. The money donated will also go to the enormous, impending medical bills that will be coming in (with her mother not working, Kat does not have insurance to help with the costs).

I am hoping to attend the next fundraiser, as I am eager to meet her. As soon as a date is set, I will share it with everyone. Of course, helping to share Kat’s story and donating are two great ways to show her that she has a strong support system!

Nothing is more rewarding than being apart of changing someone’s life or making the impossible…possible.

While my home has been Houston for over 30 years, I love a good reason to travel.

I closed my brick and mortar studio in the late 90’s to enable me to accommodate the growing client base and their needs.

Sometimes, I stop to think about where all of my clients live (some as far as France!) and I am very thankful for my good fortune.

I have Dallas, Nacogdoches, and Hot Springs lined up in the next couple months — let’s add your city! Send me a message and let’s chat!

If you are new to the Transformations by Maria blog or Facebook page, you may have some questions about who I am and what I do. Here’s a description – in the form of a Q&A – of the services I offer, as well as a little “behind-the-scenes” look at how I develop relationships with my clients. Enjoy!

Q. What is Transformations by Maria?

A. My name is Maria Cummings, and Transformations by Maria is my business. I am an image consultant, life coach, personal shopper, and custom jewelry and clothing designer. I also do closet and home assessments and reorganization, as well as clothing repairs and alterations. I am available to assist brides with shopping, alterations, custom jewelry, and more.

Q. Who are my clients?

A. Those who are looking to make a good impression, change their style, update their look, and/or get organized. Many of my clients need to match their style to a new job or place in life. Some are just in a rut and need help getting out of it. I can help my clients get back on the right track and take full control of their image and life.

Q. What happens when a client comes to see me?

A. In the initial client interview/consultation, I determine the client’s needs. Then, I can go on to help him or her where they need it most. I can teach a client about: color, fit and fabric; what styles to wear for their body type; what to keep, sell, or donate; how to shop; what to alter; how to use jewelry and accessories; and how to apply make-up and find a hairstyle. I am an expert at using clothes to bolster self-confidence and help an individual overcome insecurities about his or her body. When people work to improve their outward appearance, they will automatically feel better about themselves within.

Q. What is my relationship with my clients?

A. I am a combination fairy godmother and security blanket, and I will stay with my clients until they have achieved their goals. I develop a personal bond with each of my clients in order to understand, improve, and strengthen the image they have of themselves. I tailor the services I provide to each individual, thus enabling the client to create their own transformation on their own terms. Due to my wide range of skills, clients naturally evolve into multiple service customers as they discover everything I can do for them. Often, I will become a lifelong coach for clients. As they go through changes and stages in their lives, they call me to help them update their personal style to match their current lifestyle needs.

Q. How does cost play a role in someone’s transformation?

A. The value I provide to my clients far outweighs the cost of the service. At Transformations by Maria, the client’s needs always come first. I will ensure that the choices I help my client make are necessary and truly useful to the client. We will avoid buyer’s remorse by making sure that the purchases we make together serve them well and fulfill the desired outcome in their lives. My greatest goal is for my clients to be happier after working with me than they were before we met.

 Q. How does Transformations by Maria give back?

A. In the last few months, I have been working personally with Katherine Griffin Townsend of We’ve Been There Done That. The mission of this organization is to rehabilitate women who are victims of prostitution, drug abuse, and sex trafficking. These women need donations of beds, furniture, children’s items, and gently used clothing as they work to restore their lives. This blog post explains more about We’ve Been There Done That, and includes information on how you can help.

If you would like to request a quote or connect with me, you can call (713) 502-4106 or email maria@transformationsbymaria.com. You can also like Transformations by Maria on Facebook, where I feature inspirational photos, fashion and style tips, and fun giveaways.

Thanks for reading!