Persuasion by Arlene Dickinson

With Mother’s Day just one week away, I’m less interested in talk of flowers, breakfast in bed and bon bons – instead, I want to hear about other moms who are an example of courage, determination, and savvy entrepreneurial skills. I want to be secure in the knowledge that I can both care for my children and follow my dreams. I want to feel that I’m always living up to my personal best. THAT is what I want for Mother’s Day – to be inspired.

If you’re a Dragon’s Den fan like me, you’ll recognize Arlene Dickinson as the calculating venture capitalist with a flair for aligning with up-and-coming companies and products (have you tried OMG’s candy? Like, OMG, so good!)

But did you know that at age 31, Arlene was divorced with only a high school diploma, no savings and no clue how she was going to feed four young children? Just one year later, she was a partner in Venture Communications and ten years later, she is the CEO. Now she is one of the country’s most sought-after female entrepreneurs. Arlene is a true role model and inspiration to Canadian women – especially mothers.

And so in addition to being a CEO, TV star, national spokesperson for Breakfast Clubs of Canada, author, a mother, grandmother – I am pleased to introduce Arlene’s new line of personal line of Persuasion products she developed to complement her book, including:

Wine – a beautiful and bold 2010 Sonoma County red wine blended exclusively for Arlene. ”

“Some vintages are aggressive and come on strong; they insist on being noticed. Others are smoother, more balanced, more confident of their worth. They persuade you to pay attention. And, with every glass, convince you of their superb quality.”

Coffee – made with the world’s finest Arabica beans hand-roasted in small batches.

“Rich and aromatic, with sweet nutty undertones, the smooth flavour pulls you deeper. Made with the world’s finest Arabica beans hand-roasted in small batches, the subtle complexities persuade you to take notice. Another sip. And then you know. This is it. This is coffee. You let yourself go.”

Chocolate – using imported Belgian Callebaut chocolate and paired with exquisite ingredients.

“That’s all it takes. Persuasion chocolates have been artisan-made in Canada just for you, using imported Belgian Callebaut chocolate and paired with exquisite ingredients: homemade caramel with almonds, crisp and cool peppermint and green tea, sweet blueberry and tart Montmorency cherry, pure cayenne pepper, and naturally-harvested Hawaiian sea salt. ”

Skin care – made with natural botanical ingredients, the products have been crafted using classic French recipes.

“With a look or with a touch, your skin is how you greet the world. My French Persuasion skincare products are made with natural botanical ingredients and have been crafted just for you using classic French recipes. They are designed to relax and soothe your body and soul, while letting your inner beauty shine forth.”

I was very fortunate to try most of the Persuasion products listed above, in addition to being treated to the book (which I have yet to read, but am very looking forward to cracking open). Having honeymooned in Sonoma County, we were very partial to the robust, balanced flavour of the wine, pairing it with a cheese tray and Arlene’s pure cayenne pepper Persuasion chocolate to finish (so delicious). The products are a splendid idea for a Mother’s Day gift – something unique, unexpected, and certainly from one savvy mom to another! Combining an inspirational message with yummy goodies? Yes please!

All items can be purchased at select retailers and through www.ArleneDickinson.com.