This Female Founder Is Making Hair Accessories More Fun, While Giving Back

At Behere, we travel often and are always looking for brands and products that are great for travel, and the world. That’s why we were excited to connect with a female founder giving back – and creating a brand with a philanthropic focus! We caught up with Elle Draper, founder of Lemonelle, to learn more about her initial idea for her company and how she’s giving back through her passion.

Elle shared her initial ideation for Lemonelle

“I’ve been sewing since I was very young (mainly self-taught), and I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mind. I moved to NYC right after college, and having studied/ practiced art and design my whole life. I knew I wanted a career in the creative space, but I didn’t have the guts to start something on my own until I had spent a few years working at and learning from other companies.

After two years working as a graphic designer at a female-founded startup, where I was creating relationships with hundreds of small unique retail brands, I realized I was ready to BE one of those brands. To initiate my creative brainstorm, I thought back to my childhood and the days I spent playing around on the sewing machine.

I dusted off my machine and started tinkering with small accessories, simple dresses, and scrunchies. I saw scrunchies coming back into the high fashion world, and that was the idea that I ran with. Like a mad scientist, I started creating scrunchies of all sizes and materials, testing out different elastics until I landed on the *perfect* pattern, which is the one I use for all my scrunchies now.

The name came next. I didn’t want to limit myself by putting ‘scrunchies’ into the brand name, so I thought back to the old adage, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade” and ‘Lemonelle’ was born! Another reason I like the ‘lemon’ concept is the phrase can have different endings – lemonade is just one of many options.

Cool! Tell us more about the scrunchies

“Everything is made in the USA, and I hand-pick all the fabrics myself from a variety of sources. I choose fabrics that make sense for the season, and the product. I have to consider what material(s) will look and feel good even after they’re all cinched up. Stretch velvet works nicely and has been a popular style for fall and winter. I like satin/silk combos with beautiful prints, and for the summer collection I’m using a lot of fun spandex/swim-friendly fabric.

Recently, I’ve been designing my own *custom* fabrics (also manufactured in the US). Early on, I was sewing all the scrunchies myself, but once I had perfected the product design and packaging, I decided it was best to outsource production so I could spend more time on marketing and website design.”

Being a first time founder is never easy, Elle shared some of her journey

“Finding the right manufacturer is a trial and error process. I cold-called a long list of NYC based manufacturing studios, and found three different spots that agreed to do small batch production with my original pattern. After a few rounds with NYC based production, I decided the costs were a bit high, so I expanded my search into the rest of the US. I found a studio in Kentucky, and one in LA.

I still sew all the initial samples of each style myself when I first pick out the fabrics, but then I send the fabric to those production places for the rest. Everything is made in small batches because I think it’s special to create scarcity with limited editions. It also helps me figure out what my customers are drawn to the most.”

Not only does she hand-sew each initial sample, but Elle also focuses on having a social impact

“A portion of every sale goes towards a charity called Sew Powerful, an organization that teaches women in impoverished countries how to sew.

I chose to give back because I wanted my brand to have a social impact. Sew Powerful was my charity of choice because when I considered the skills that made it possible for me to start a company, sewing was top of mind. I realized how grateful I am to have been exposed to a sewing machine at such a young age. I want to give other women the opportunity to create things with the same versatile skill and hopefully enable them to provide for their families or themselves.

In certain cases, my donation will go towards another charity. For example, I collaborated with a musical artist, Anjali World, on a specific scrunchie style (a green one called ‘Nani’, based on her nickname). Anjali founded a non-profit called Jaws and Paws which aims to protect wildlife. The proceeds from the ‘Nani’ style go towards her organization, and I plan to expand my donations with other collaborations later.”

lemonelleWith so many hair accessories now, what makes Lemonelle unique?

“Oh so many reasons! The philanthropic aspect of Lemonelle is one piece of it, but also the product design and the whole brand-experience is different than most. The packaging is very thoughtful; each scrunchie comes in a small clear cylinder (a pillow shape for the three-packs) with a citrus candy (lemon!) because I want the ‘unboxing’ experience to be as special as the product.

Delighting the customer is really important in creating loyalty, so I also include a circular ‘thank you’ /informational card about the company and the cause within each package. The plastic containers can be repurposed as cute little catch-alls, and the aesthetic just feels more luxurious than the typical cardboard hanger that we see for most scrunchie displays. Each scrunchie style has a fun original name to suggest a more dynamic ‘story’ beyond the color, and in each scrunchie we sew a signature yellow satin ‘tab’ for an added flair and brand recognition.

As a solo female founder, I am quality assuring every single scrunchie before I send it out, and I produce all my own social media content/ website designs (for now).

Lemonelle is also very collaboration friendly! I’ve worked with a few other small brands to create cross promotional opportunities and make special ‘bundles’. For example, over the holidays I partnered with a cosmetic brand. We created a bundle where her lipstick color matched the Lemonelle scrunchie and sold it as a duo. I have more exciting collaborations in the works too.”

And of course, why are Lemonelle scrunchies so great for travel?

“They are debatably the best travel accessory! They fit anywhere, they’re light as a feather (won’t weigh down your suitcase) and they’re incredibly versatile. Scrunchies can be dressed up or down, and unlike certain jewelry they won’t get impossibly tangled up in your travel bag.

They’re also comfortable and beneficial for hair-health. Regular hair-ties can cause split ends and unwanted kinks; scrunchies are gentle on your locks and, in my opinion, way more fun. They can be worn on the wrist like a bracelet, or in an updo for an effortless flair.

They’re perfect as travel GIFTS too; I’ve gotten amazing feedback from customers who have gotten Lemonelle as bachelorette party gifts or a bridesmaid goodies. Suitcase-caused fabric wrinkles are a non-issue as well. I never go anywhere without my scrunchies!”


Check out Lemonelle on Instagram. And if you want to support a female founder and get your hands on Elle’s scrunchies for your next trip, head to lemonelle.co.

11 Inspiring Women Share Stories of Chasing Their Dreams

We’ve been delighted to hear so many inspiring ladies stories of chasing after their dreams, finding a way to make a more flexible lifestyle work for them, and stopping at nothing to create a life they adore.

We’ve featured some of these inspiring women on our Instagram and Facebook and are sharing more of their stories here. Full of passion, they’re sure to inspire and encourage you. They might even ignite the fire in you to pursue your crazy big dreams. Because life’s too short and we only have one brilliant chance at building a life we love.

Ami Lee’s story about taking a huge risk then falling in love with her life again.

inspiring women

“Last year I quit my job, packed a bag, and jumped on a plane. People told me I was crazy, that I was ruining my life, that I should be scared. But I didn’t care. I felt suffocated and stuck, so I left. And I met the best damn people on this Earth. I ate street food that fed my very soul and experienced profoundly spiritual moments in ancient, holy places. My heart cracked wide open and fell head over heels in love with life again. I don’t know how I found the courage to get on that plane, but I’m so glad I did. My only regret is not doing it sooner.” – Ami Lee ( @_ami_lee_ )⠀

Grace Kim’s story on being open to taking risks and enjoying life.

inspiring women

“Leaving my job this past March was the hardest and easiest thing to do. The hardest because I’d never done anything that ‘risky’ before. The easiest because I chose myself. Every day, I make my schedule, decide who I see, what I do, how I move, and where I work. There’s nothing more satisfying to my soul.” – Grace Kim @gracejyk

Veronica Stoddart, former travel editor-in-chief of @usatoday, on the importance of travel.

inspiring women

“I consider travel a force for good in the world. I started consulting in early 2015 after a long career with major media companies and absolutely love the flexibility and empowerment of being my own boss and master of my domain.  Although I’ve had to learn to manage the ebb and flow of working with clients, it’s been life-changing to be able to decide the kind of work I want to do. Plus, I can work from anywhere, which is a real advantage since I’m on the road so much. Have laptop will travel!” – Veronica Stoddart, @vjstoddart 

Viktoria Urbanek and the benefits of remote work for her.

inspiring women

“I’ve worked remotely for the past four years, many times just from my desk at home but also on trains, planes, ferries, and pretty much anywhere. It’s not easy, but the freedom that comes with it is what defines me. Traveling and diving are so much easier when working remotely – I wouldn’t want to change a thing. Proud to be a female entrepreneur!” – Viktoria Urbanek @wanderlustcom 

Brianna Valleskey explaining how freelancing has helped her become her happiest self.

inspiring women

“I’m not built for office life. I get extremely antsy when trying to sit still for eight hours a day, and that feeling of being trapped at a desk always made me less productive. But freelancing has freed me to follow my wandering spirit. I now have the pleasure of working with clients across the globe how, where and when I want. My boyfriend and I love to travel, and I couldn’t be happier that I finally have the finances and flexibility to do so.” – @bri_valleskey ⠀

Emily Pelland’s story on her fear of the ordinary inspiring and motivating her.

inspiring female quotes

“My greatest fear is the fear of an ordinary life. It’s the fear of not actually living, of my life being cut short but having never actually painted the colors my mind is full of. The fear of not having stories to tell and the fear of lying in my death bed, and not having used the gift of life wisely. I fear being defined by one career or by one place. People always tell you to face your fears, but I have a hard time believing that this is a fear I should set aside. This is the fear that motivates me and I hope it’s here to stay.” – Emily Pelland, @hikingwithheels 

Jacqueline Jensen sharing how remote work has really helped her.

inspiring women

“Working remotely allows me to live a rich life where I can optimize my environment and my day in a way that works best for me. I find I’m more productive, creative, and passionate working remotely compared to times when I have been in an office each day. I’m excited to see how the future of work evolves to give more women the option to be able to work remotely, too!” – @JackieMJensen

Bethany’s story about facing her fears to pursue a life she had been dreaming about.

inspiring women

“A year ago, I booked my one-way ticket, quit my job, sold my car and have not looked back since! Travel has been a massive journey of self discovery for me. I’ve definitely had to work through some big fears and challenges along the way. Travel not only changes your physical reality but it also changes you as a person. I know I’ve had to let go of many beliefs that I held about people and the world in general to make room for what I was now coming to know through real experience. Beliefs about other parts of the world, different cultures, lifestyles, and religions. When you travel it changes the way you see everything and you start to see and experience life with fresh new eyes.” – Bethany, @brownhairedwanderer

Christina’s story on how she finally achieved work-life balance to live the way she wanted. ⠀

“I never believed that work-life balance was possible, or that I could actually create a lifestyle that was equally challenging and fulfilling. When I quit my job to travel, I had no expectations that it would be forever- just a short stint to see the world. But what I found was that once I chose to honor my deepest desires, the world opened up to me in ways that I never thought possible. I experienced true presence, met amazing people, and built a worldwide network just from following my instincts. I’ve gained so much from that act of bravery two years ago, not the least of which is the ability to work where I want, when I want, making as much as I want. It was a scary undertaking and certainly a leap of faith, but looking back, I wouldn’t change it for anything.” – Christina Perricone

 

Sara’s story of finally giving into her daydreams and pursuing a life she really loves.

inspiring womens

“Having been born in Tokyo to mixed race parents, and going back and forth between Japan and the US throughout my childhood, I guess traveling is in my DNA. For as long as I can remember, all I wanted was to continue exploring new cultures, experiencing new places, and meeting amazing and diverse people. I studied in Rome during college hoping it would cure my wanderlust, but it just fed that need even more! Now, after taking the road society expects and working at a desk (while daydreaming about being anywhere else), I’ve finally decided to give into that not-so-quiet voice in my head to build a life that will allow me to travel and do work that I truly enjoy! I have started a social media marketing & VA business and already landed my first client within my first week! I’m now working on building my clientele, leaving my 9-5, and transitioning into taking this full time! I am so excited for this journey and am ready to build a life that I truly love!” – Sara Lovelace, @saralovelace

Sophie’s story on how becoming a freelancer allowed her to follow her intuition.

inspiring women

“Working as a freelancer allows me to enjoy my freedom, respect my own pace and follow my intuitions. I believe it helps me get the best out of me because I can adjust my working hours and change location often. It keeps me awake, curious and inspired. After a few years working in an office, freelancing has really helped my find myself again, I feel more responsible for my life and alive.” – Sophie Rocher, @pepillustration

These women show how possible it really is to live with flexibility. They all took a leap, to chase their dreams and managed to find a way to make it fit the lifestyle they wanted. Whether you’re just starting your business, have been consulting for ages, or are working a 9-5, know that it is possible to have the life you want. Let these inspiring women light a fire in you to finally take a leap and dive wholeheartedly into chasing your dreams.


Ready to take the leap? We’ve shared a ton of amazing resources here, to help you find remote work, pitch going remote to your boss or level up your freelance game. Happy flex working!

Women Making Moves | Skylar Schneider, Team USA Cyclist

Our team connected with this driven, forward-thinking woman, Skylar Schneider. Since a young age, she has traveled and pushed herself out of her comfort zone. A Team USA Cyclist, Skylar shared her journey into cycling (that started when she was just 4 years old!), some of her greatest challenges and how it got her to where she is today – living in and biking for Holland.

Where are you from and where do you currently live?

I’m from West Allis, WI which is just outside of Milwaukee. Home is still West Allis, however my base in Europe is in Southern Holland.

Tell us about your journey to cycling. What inspired you to start?

My dad was already a cyclist when he met my mom in high school, although she didn’t think the sport was cool enough and swore that she would never touch a bike. Later in their relationship he built her a custom hot pink bike, which was enough to change her mind.
Both of them raced around the US and passed on the love of the sport to my siblings and I. I did my first race at four years old and am now one of the youngest women in the World to be racing at the highest level of the sport.
skylar schneider

What has been your greatest achievement?

In 2016 I qualified for the World Championships and represented Team USA in Doha, Qatar. I went on to finish 2nd place and earn a silver medal in the road race. Standing on the podium in the red, white, and blue of the United States uniform is a feeling I’ll never forget and hope to achieve again one day!

And your greatest challenge?

The greatest challenge is the time spent away from home. In a given year, I spend more days away than I am home. Therefore, I sacrifice a lot of time with my family and miss out on holidays. During the Spring while I was living in Holland, my dog passed away and this broke me. I knew that when I returned home it would never be the same. I grew from this experience by realizing that it was OK to cry and it was OK to talk about it with my family as we mourned together, despite being so far away from them. In other words, communication is key – especially with loved ones – and something I’m constantly working at to keep our relationships strong despite the distance.

How has traveling and living abroad inspired/pushed you and provided you with valuable life experiences?

I have realized that every time I travel, I am changing a bit as a person. My own understanding of the world has been shaped by the beautiful and imperfect places that I have had the opportunity to see, and the people I meet along the way.
With these valuable and raw life experiences, I’ve been pushed and inspired to have more compassion and an understanding for other cultures. You can learn a lot from people by observing- especially the locals who have a rhyme and a reason for the way they’re doing things. Like this, you’re opening your mind to doing something different than you might normally and developing a better understanding for the people around you.

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned since moving abroad? Any advice for someone thinking about living abroad?

At 19 years old I essentially moved abroad where a lot of unknowns and lessons awaited me. I was living in a place where my only transportation was by foot, bike, or train. I learned to strategically plan my grocery store trips, load a train card, and plan logistics for getting the places I needed to be (…and so much more).
For anyone living abroad, there’s a balance between letting go and living in the moment, while also understanding when it’s super important to plan for the future. Ultimately, you’re going abroad to enjoy it and not be stressed out the whole time, so really take advantage of learning from your mistakes and remembering that ‘que sera, sera’.

What is your fav place you’ve been? Where you’re off to next?

“My favorite place to travel to is Colombia! There’s something about the charming towns, happy people, and fresh food that makes me fall in love every time I’m there! The culture is dramatically different than what I’m used to in America or Europe, but what I’ve learned from Colombians is that you truly don’t need a lot to be happy- in other words- money doesn’t equal happiness.
Although 99% of my travels throughout the year have to do with cycling, my next trip is an actual vacation! My family and I are going to Montreal, Canada. My grandma grew up in Montreal but hasn’t returned in many years, so the family is going with her to learn more about her roots. It has been in the works for about 3 years and now it’s just 2 weeks away!
Overall, I hope women will feel encouraged to travel using Behere, and inspired to learn more about themselves by embracing the challenge and independence of going abroad.”


Connect with Skylar at myscarletsky.com or on IG @sky_schneider.
To learn more about Behere, click here.

How Living in New Cities Helped Me Find My 'Purpose'

At Behere, we’re constantly inspired by the amazing women in our community. We’re thrilled to feature some of their stories and share how they’ve made traveling while working possible. From unconventional roles, to starting businesses abroad, these women have made exploring new places a priority. They share their biggest learnings, favorite memories, and advice for someone thinking about living in a new city for a month.
Today’s Behere community feature, Carrie, is a consultant and writer from San Francisco. Carrie spent the summer living in new cities across Europe, snapping amazing photos and writing her book. She booked her time in Lisbon and Split on Behere, and although she’s returned home, she’s already planning her next adventure. Read her story below!

You’re able to work remotely, what is it that you do?


“While I primarily work as a consultant helping companies with operational challenges, I’m 
also a writer. I’m currently working on my first memoir about travel, love, and the difficult process of trusting yourself (working title “Bamboozled”).

Six-years ago, I was laid off from a job I enjoyed. At the time, it seemed like I had everything – I had spent 15 years working long days for – and should have made me happy. I had a promising career, a condo in San Francisco, and a partner that wanted to make plans with me. And yet, something was missing. Instead of taking the safe path, and against others’ advice, I took the severance from my layoff to pursue a lifelong dream to travel the world solo.

My story is about coming to terms with what we think we want, versus what we really want– as well as my misadventures from Reykjavik to Tokyo and many points in between. 

carrie lisbon

In addition, I’ve been brainstorming new business ideas on how I can help other women transition from their “safe path” jobs, into more entrepreneurial and creative pursuits. I think it’s vital to share success stories and experiences of women living life on their own terms. I met many of these women during my time in Lisbon and Split.”

What was the most important thing you learned while living in new cities?

 

“I think living in a new environment helps us discern what we think we want, versus what we really want at a lightning-quick pace. Where ever we are in life, it helps right-size our boundaries to shut out less of what we don’t want, and open us to more of what we do want.

Because we can’t rely on our regular structures, environment and assumptions, we have to rely on our instincts and intuition. We’re forced to live in the moment and listen to our own inner voice, versus researching the pros-and-cons of every decision.

For example, if I’m exploring a new, unfamiliar city I have to make split-second decisions on whether a certain street may be safe to walk down at night, or whether a person I meet has good or ill intentions toward me. At home, I have more resources to research these things. I may have friends, family, or coworkers providing me input that runs counter to my gut instinct. But the
more I make decisions with limited input, the faster I’m able to make them and have more confidence that they are the right decisions for me.

On the opposite side, I found myself more open to different opportunities than I would have been at home. I connected more deeply with people at restaurants, in classes, in public spaces than if I was at home among familiar friends.

I learned to say ‘yes’ to things more quickly and definitively because I realized those opportunities were unlikely to re-present themselves. Once I was able to right-size my boundaries to shut out what I didn’t want, open up to what I did, and trust my instincts, I found myself in a travel flow where I seemed to be in the right place, at the right time, with the right people, hearing the right message.

I experienced so many moments of synchronicity, I feel like I could write a separate book on the topic! Maybe it’s my sequel.”

How did Behere help on your journey?


“Behere helped provide access to communities where I could really feel connected to a place 
and its people. As an experienced traveler, I could have piecemealed flights and accommodations for myself, but I wouldn’t have had the in-depth experience I was seeking without Behere’s help.

carrie croatia

The founders and their amazing team were instrumental in connecting me with people and organizations within the community that shared my interests. As a result, I was able to walk Lisbon’s winding streets with a fellow photographer, continue my meditation practice in Portugal, talk Croatian design with a former NYC fashion industry professional, and even tour an eco farm in a kaštela outside Split.

The options Behere provide are flexible, enabling you to be able to participate as little or as much as you like. There is no one to define what your time in that new city should or shouldn’t be – just resources and people to help along the way. I loved feeling the flexibility to explore and play in my new surroundings, knowing the Behere team was supporting and encouraging my journey.

Plus, their entire team is inspirational. It’s easier to feel inspired when you are surrounded by inspiring people.”

We love hearing highlights from our communities adventures, what was one of yours?


“There are too many memories to choose from!

But if I had to choose just one, it was speaking at my workspace in Split’s, ‘Sofa Series’ event about the power of travel. Beyond being able to speak about my passion, how it started and came together was the perfect application of all the travel lessons I had learned on the road, especially the ones about trusting yourself.

I had gone to Montenegro for three days to relax and write. While I had the opportunity to extend my stay a few extra days – and some intriguing incentives do to so – I had a gut feeling I had to return to Split. There was a party at my workspace that I felt I couldn’t miss.

I should mention I’m not the most naturally outgoing type, so I would be happy to bypass a networking social for a glass of wine with a friend if I was home.

At the party, I had a conversation with the founder, Tanja, and somehow the idea came up that I should talk about my book and travel experience at their kick-off Sofa Series – at the end of the week, no less.

While my initial thought was, “Wow, I would love to share my travel experiences,” it was also joined by thoughts of, “What am I getting into? I have never done this before.”

At home, these more “rational” thoughts may have outweighed the loftier ones, but I decided to trust that I was there for a reason and said yes.

I had prepared notes to talk about how travel helps clarify our self-concept, leads to better decision making, and helps us strengthen our intuition. Now I was being put to the test in not only living it but sharing it with others.

The day of the event, I was nervous. I was used to speaking to clients in a business suit and with PowerPoint presentations, but not to people halfway around the world about my passion! My fears soon dissipated when handed a glass of wine and comfy seat on the sofa.

split carrie

For the next hour or two, I had a dialogue with the most interesting and insightful group of individuals – who also shared their travel experiences, fears, and aspirations. Sometimes as a solo female traveler, I’ve felt like an outsider and that there’s not a place where I comfortably fit in, but among that group I felt at home.

It marked the close of my Croatian experience, but beyond that, it marked a feeling that one can have a sense of belonging and home in a place as far away as Split. And that if we share ourselves openly and honestly, there are always opportunities for genuine connection wherever we roam.”

How did living in new cities affect your work?


“Living abroad improved my creativity and problem-solving skills exponentially.

The break from my daily routine ushered in a flood of new ideas – from novel ways to approach my book to an entirely new business idea. My ideas finally had space to roam and develop. I saw new connections between the various – and at times competing – aspects of my work.

The best part is my creativity hasn’t waned since I’ve returned home. Perhaps it’s because traveling helped me recognize when I’m in a rut and what I need to do to break free from it.

For example, some of my best ideas came while hiking through Marjan Park outside Split. Alenna, Behere’s Split City Host, encouraged me to hike the park with her at day-break one morning, which was 4:30am.

split hike

Anyone that knows me knows I don’t get up at 4:30am for anyone or anything! But at the end of it, I was refreshed, renewed and refocused. I had so much energy to tackle the day and pages of new ideas to act upon.

Now I know when I need inspiration or to view a problem from a different vantage point, I need a long hike. Which is another benefit of living abroad and setting your own schedule. It becomes a little trickier to block your calendar for a 2-hour walk in the middle of the day at a traditional 9-to-5 job – and yet so much more productive at times than 2-hours’ worth of conference calls.”

Finally, what’s your #1 piece of advice for someone thinking about living in a new place for a month?


“Beyond just making the commitment to yourself to do it; travel light.

I mean that mentally, emotionally, and physically. That’s not to say don’t be prepared; but leave behind any expectations about how you think the experience should be.

Allow your best plans to bend, shift, and be arranged. Experiencing a new place is about finding flow and freedom –not checking off a do-to list or seeing certain sites just because you feel the obligation.

Living abroad also allows you to reset some of the less-savory habits and patterns you’ve accumulated. Make a resolution to leave these habits back home. For me, that was creating a new morning ritual that did not include reaching for my cell phone upon waking.

Finally, pack less than you think you need. Pack your bag then unpack a third of it. It makes saying ‘yes’ to last minute excursions easier when you don’t have to schlep (and possibly pay for) that extra suitcase. And I promise you will not miss the shoes, that shirt, the books you left behind.

In fact, you may feel liberated to discover how little you really need to be happy.”


Do you run a business or work flexibly? (If not, we’ve got you covered with our Free Resources). Do you also dream of traveling but feel overwhelmed with where to begin? Booking on Behere helps make traveling to a new city seamless, learn how here.

Connect with Carrie on Instagram @carriewithacamera.

Images and words courtesy of Carrie Breinholt.

Meet Our Budapest City Host | Bogi

Our team had the pleasure of connecting with Bogi, an inspiring woman from Budapest. A freelancer and entrepreneur, she’s had many really cool roles. From being a reporter in Egypt, to being a sports entertainer in Spain, Bogi has traveled and worked around the world. A people person, she loves adventure and good conversations. We’re also thrilled to have Bogi as our Budapest Behere City Host. Learn more about her below.

Tell us about yourself and what inspires you about traveling?

Hi I’m Bogi, I live in Budapest and am originally from here. Travel inspires me because I’m a people person, so besides the destination, it’s inspiring to have good conversations with new people. I love that so many great things happen when you least expect them. Being in new places puts me in a completely different mindset. I see different perspectives and traveling brings out different sides of me.

Bogi

What do you do for work and how’d you end up there?

I’m currently a freelancer and tour guide. I run B Side Tours in Budapest. I’ve tried various jobs in my life so far, and often wish I could do much more.

I’ve worked at a movie theatre, language school, as a hostess at concerts, as a sports entertainer in Spain, a receptionist in Italy and a reporter in Egypt. I sold a couple’s invention at a boat show in Germany and to get that job I sold insoles for an hour to showcase my sales skills. The latest challenge was giving my voice to 2 videos, and the hop-on-hop-off bus.

What inspired you to start your tour company?

I was initially inspired to become a tour guide by my 8th grade history teacher. But it really was a Brazilian couple on one of my tours a few years ago who gave me the push to create the website (thank you!)

What are your favorite things/place about Budapest?

My favorite places are close to nature, on the islands or by the river Danube on the shore up north. I love how Budapest holds a lot of surprises – e.g. you can’t see it from outside, but a former apartment building hosts a leafy garden or bar. I am still amazed at the creativity of turning unused spaces into something else, (like the famous ruin pubs).

Budapest is a cool and vibrant city but the Buda side will forever be my favorite; the dreamy, hilly, green, suburbs side of town where I grew up.

Fun facts about yourself:

One of my fave fun facts is that I met Nicholas Sparks and he signed my copy of the Notebook which I read when I was 16 (and in love).

I have many more fun facts about Mariah Carey, Angelina Jolie, Busta Rhymes or the Bruce Willis stuntman.  If you enjoy podcasts, have a listen to my episode on Andy Steves’ show, “Budapest, Baths and Boyz II Men“.  You’ll also be able to listen to the entertaining chat I had with the amazing ladies from Chronicles Abroad, too!

And, if you travel on American Airlines in the US July 2018, you’ll catch a video of me talking about Budapest!

You can check out Bogi’s tours at bsidetours.com
or on Instagram: @bsidetours.


To meet Bogi in Budapest and join one of her awesome tours, choose your apartment, workspace and fitness studio on Behere.

Women Making Moves | Judith Martinez of InHerShoes

What would you do if you were 1% more courageous?


That’s the question at the heart of InHerShoes’s beginnings and mission as an organization. And like most stories of courage, it started with one particular moment of fear. At least for InHerShoes Founder, Judith Martinez, it did.

Judith shares what inspired her to start InHerShoes and how she’s encouraging young women to be that 1% more courageous. Read her story below.

You know those things in your life that you’ve always wanted?

Yeah, that thing.

The one that just popped in your head as you read the words to yourself.

Well for me, it was law school. InHerShoes really began when I finally got the thing that I always wanted (or thought I wanted), and realized once I had it, it had nothing to do with what I actually wanted after all.

The sparknotes version; I got accepted to my dream law school after working toward it my entire 20+ years of life. But I declined it. I realized what I really wanted was to be an entrepreneur. I just had never thought I was smart enough, good enough, ready enough, talented enough, old enough, and wealthy enough to actually be it.

Simply, I wasn’t enough.

After doing some major eat, pray love time, I really learned how much of my life wasn’t mine. It was really the Yellow Brick Road my family, friends, and society paved for me.

inhershoesHow could I check all the boxes of what it looked like to be a “successful” educated, first generation, graduating-with-honors young woman – and yet be so unhappy and unfulfilled?

Being a first generation Filipina American; education, let alone success, were not only intertwined, they were non-negotiable.

After declining my law school acceptance, I gave myself the permission to ask: what do I really want to do, despite being afraid to do it? From that moment, InHerShoes was born and our mission to catalyze courage for women everywhere to live and create a life being 1% more courageous at a time became a reality.

And what exactly is InHerShoes?

As an organization, we pride ourselves as being the non-profit of the millennial generation. We provide high school girls the seed grant funding to start their own ventures. These ventures catalyze courage in local communities and activate the new leadership of a generation. For recent college graduates and professional women, we provide community, celebration, and courage to expand what we think is possible.”

– Judith Martinez, InHerShoes Founder

You can learn more about InHerShoes and ways to get involved at www.inhershoesmvmt.org.
OR check them out on Instagram @InHerShoesMvmt and @jud.ithmartinez.


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