Hey Luxe Queen!

Welcome to your weekly Luxe Queen Letter! 

We've got some sizzling content for you this week. First up, let’s chat about why having agreements or contracts is a non-negotiable for your service-based business. Say goodbye to client misunderstandings and hello to clear, professional boundaries.

Next, it’s summertime, but some Luxe Queens are dealing with their own "personal summers." We're breaking the silence on perimenopause. What it is, why no one talks about it, and how to handle it with grace (and humor!).

And don’t forget our trivia! Do you know who the first female CEO of a Fortune 500 company was? Find out and see if you guessed right.

Grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and enjoy the read. Thanks for being part of our Luxe Queen Letter community!

Stay Luxe,

Luxe Trivia

Who was the first female CEO of a Fortune 500 company, and which company did she lead?

(check your answer at the bottom)

In today’s email:

• Luxe Health: Personal Summer Time

• Luxe Business: Protect Your Biz

Luxe Health

Surviving the “Personal Summers” ( Let’s Talk Perimenopause)

Summertime is here, but for some of us, it feels like we’re living in a constant heatwave. Welcome to the World of Perimenopause! If you've found yourself feeling like you’re in a perpetual sauna, you’re not alone. Let's talk about this spicy topic that nobody seems to talk about but everyone needs to hear.

What Is Perimenopause Anyway?

Perimenopause is the not-so-fun pre-game to menopause, where your body starts transitioning towards the end of your reproductive years. It can start as early as your late 30s or as fashionably late as your 50s. Symptoms? Oh, we’ve got hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and the occasional “Did I just walk into a room to forget why?” moment.

Why Isn’t Anyone Talking About It?

Because society loves to pretend that women don’t age! We’re expected to breeze through life looking like we’re forever 25. But guess what? Perimenopause is a normal part of life. It’s high time we break the silence and share the ups and downs of these personal summers.

Is It Hot in Here, or Is It Just Me?

Somebody cue Nelly’s “Hot in Herre.”

Wondering if you’re hitting this lovely life stage? Here are some signs:

Hot Flashes: Sudden, intense heat that can leave you feeling like a human volcano.

Night Sweats: Waking up drenched as if you ran a marathon in your sleep.

Mood Swings: Going from zero to irritated faster than you can say "hormones."

Irregular Periods: Your monthly visitor becoming fashionably late or overly punctual.

Handling the Heat

1. Stay Cool - Dress in layers, use fans, and keep a cool drink handy. Ice packs are your new best friend.

2. Exercise - Regular physical activity can help manage symptoms. Plus, it's a great stress buster.

3. Diet - Incorporate more fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Avoid spicy foods and caffeine—they can trigger hot flashes.

4. Hydrate - Drink plenty of water to help regulate your body temperature.

5. Sleep - Create a cool, comfortable sleep environment. Blackout curtains and a good air conditioner can work wonders.

Can We Talk?

If you’re experiencing these symptoms and they’re affecting your life, it’s time to chat with your doctor. They can offer treatments and lifestyle tips to help you manage this transition gracefully.

Perimenopause isn’t something to be embarrassed about. It’s a natural phase of life. Sharing your experiences can help others feel less alone and more empowered. So, let’s bring perimenopause out of the shadows and into our conversations! Stay cool!

Treat Yourself

Luxe Business

Why Service Agreements Are a Must-Have

Ever had a client misunderstanding that made you wish you'd put everything in writing? You’re not alone! This week, we’re chatting about why having agreements or contracts in your service-based business is essential. 

However, it’s essential to understand the distinctions and tax implications. Remember, this article is not legal or financial advice—always seek professional guidance for your specific situation. 

Why You Need Agreements

Picture this: You’ve just landed a new client. Everything’s going great until there’s a hiccup. Suddenly, what they thought they were getting and what you thought you were providing are two different things. Stressful, right? That’s where a solid contract comes in to save the day.

Contracts set clear expectations for both parties. They outline what’s being provided, payment terms, timelines, and what happens if things don’t go as planned. It’s like having a roadmap for your business relationship.

Pros of Having Agreements

Clarity and Professionalism 
Having everything in writing ensures both you and your client know what to expect. It shows you mean business.

Legal Protection 
Should things go south, a contract can protect you legally. It's your safeguard in sticky situations.

Payment Security 
Outline your payment terms clearly to avoid late payments or disputes.

Scope Control 
Prevents scope creep by clearly defining the services you will provide and any extra costs for additional work.

Cons (But Not Really)

Time-Consuming 
Drafting a contract can take time, but think of it as an investment in your peace of mind.

Initial Costs 
Getting a lawyer to draft or review your contract might cost a bit upfront, but it’s worth it to avoid potential legal headaches later.

Who You Gonna Call

• Lawyers - A business lawyer can draft a tailored contract for your services. They know the legal lingo and what to include to protect you.

• Contract Templates - If you’re just starting out, there are reputable websites with contract templates that you can customize. Just make sure to have a lawyer review it.

• Online Legal Services - Services like LegalZoom offer contract templates and legal advice at a fraction of the cost of a traditional lawyer.

Can You Relate?

Ever had a project where the client kept asking for more and more, and you felt like you couldn’t say no? Or maybe you did extra work but struggled to get paid for it? A solid agreement can help prevent these scenarios, ensuring everyone’s on the same page from day one.

Remember, a contract isn’t just a formality. It’s a vital tool for protecting your business and ensuring smooth operations. So, what are you waiting for? Get those agreements in place and watch your business run more smoothly than ever.

Luxe Trivia Answer

Katharine Graham, The Washington Post Company

Source: The Washington Post