Recently we all stopped and reflected in the challenges of the past 2 years and those that are waiting for us in 2010.  We could hardly ignore the fact that, as a small business, it was not so long ago that we were in similar shoes as today’s recessionary entrepreneurs. We all agreed that we wanted to do more to help foster other small businesses. While we’re still working on some details (subscribe to this blog  for updates!), we’re very excited about being a part of growth in 2010!

The annual competition, which showcases excellence in design, has been around for almost 4 decades and receives more than 10,000 entries each year. Only 10% are chosen by a panel of top industry professionals and printed in the 300-page Awards Annual edition of Graphic Design USA.

Earlier this month, color expert Pantone announced the 2009 color of the year -mimosa yellow. The cheerful and energetic shade (PANTONE® 14-0848 to be exact) replaces the 2008 color blue iris and and is inspired by the bright flowers of the Mimosa tree. Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute® says, “The color yellow exemplifies the warmth and nurturing quality of the sun, properties we as humans are naturally drawn to for reassurance.” Shades of yellow motivate and stimulate creative thought and the color is always an attention getter. Yellow is already being seen in spring/summer 2009 fashion shows and will soon be hard to miss.