It would be nice to relax for the rest of the year but I have a couple of projects I couldn’t wait to start on so I’ll be working straight into 2010. Keep it locked and bookmarked for updates…

From Bud Caddell:

We can’t determine how to make enough money from the things we want to do, and do really well. I’m constantly surprised at what can be monetized. And on the web, there’s a market for almost anything. But this problem requires you to rapidly iterate your positioning and the type of clients you serve. Often, we’ll get transfixed on a single direction early on (because we’re desperate to solidify our business) and we’ll miss our chance to radically experiment with the market.

We’ve found things we want to do, and can be paid for, but we’re not the best game in town. Mediocrity is not a sustainable strategy. Being able to recognize your own weakness is a profound strength, and acting to improve what you do is key to any kind of long term growth and stability. Find the best talent and steal them. Learn how your competitors run their businesses, and copy what works.

We’ve come across things people want us to do, that we do well (or at least better than the competition) that we really don’t want to do. This is perhaps the most fatal trap for any business I’ve worked in. These are the sirens calling you to shipwreck. You’ll hemorrhage your best people, you’ll stop loving what you do, and you’ll lose the passion that built your business in the first place. Start saying ‘No.’

Source: LifeHacker

I think every guy should have a solid set of bags for everyday use and travel. Newcomer KillSpencer offers a variety of bags constructed from military-grade materials. How’s that for solid? I just became a fan. (Random fact: The creator’s grandfather was Mr. Wizard on TV!)

Spencer Nikosey’s KillSpencer line of men’s bags exploded onto the scene last year with its distinguishable military-inspired designs. The majority of his creations re-use fabrics and materials that meet the stringent requirements of modern military specifications. This design philosophy and practice ensures extremely durable products, and it so happens that they are stylish as well.

His latest releases include a variety of messenger bags, weekender bags, a specialty ops backpack and a new line of accessories. Many materials are waterproof and/or premium leathers. The functionality of each bag for personal or business use make it an ideal everyday bag. Visit our friend’s site, and check out these items. Each item description indicates all of the materials and components. All made in the USA.

Click on the source link for more images…

Also check out SwipeLife’s interview with creator Spencer Nikosey here.

Source: SwipeLife

Walk-in closet? More like personal mens department… this “closet” is bigger than my room!

This chic walk-in closet design with glass walls by Spazzi – a premier European master cabinet maker – is every fashion fanatic’s dream! Imagine sitting in your dressing area, and being able to see all your clothing options at a glance. This walk-in closet is a luxury a clothing aficionado shouldn’t be without, offering lots of space and storage, so your clothing and accessories are organized, easy to find and easily accessible, whether you’re dressing for work or primping for a night on the town. Inside and out, this closet design is uber-cool, with sleek glass walls suited any contemporary space, and inside the brightly illuminated dressing area ensures the spotlight is on you! Check out this cool walk-in closet at Spazzi.

Source: NOTCOT

Happy Tuesday!

Victoria’s Secret supermodel Isabeli Fontana goes topless for Homem Vogue. The 26-year-old Brazilian enchanter struts her flawless figure in this photo spread shot by Jacques Dequeker.

Click on the source link for more images…

Source: SwipeLife

I wish I had a full set of power tools at my disposal so I could try making something like this ALL CUSTOM… with a few other tweaks of course. Del Scorcho sauce packet cubby, napkin dispenser, dedicated in-desk drink cooler (one shaped for Red Bulls and one for regular cans)… ’cause we all know designers eat at their desk…

Source: SwipeLife

Source: Gizmodo

Whirlwind weekend trip from SD to OC back to SD in 24 hours…

3rd Annual Christmas Party at Jerald’s…

Raw Crab Cakes

Denson The Butler x Martini Shaker, Rae x Creepy Chucky Doll

The streak continues…

Vietnamese tailgating at its finest…

Korean BBQ Victory Celebration…

11-3.

Source: FreelanceSwitch

Congrats guys!

From the Orisue blog…

Orisue has been in business for nearly 4 years now, and we’ve never had a physical retail space of our own. That is until next week! We will be opening our first ever pop-up shop in beautiful Venice Beach, California! We will be sharing the space with 9Five, Aerial7WeArePlus. and

We’re kickin’ off the festivities with an opening party Tuesday Dec. 22. Music will be provided by O-Team members DJ SourMilk & DJ Ever as well as Aerial7’s own DJ Ayla Simone. There will also be a special performance by U-N-I. To top things off drinks are on the house courtesy of Belvedere, Corona Extra & AMP Energy Drink!

The opening starts at 7PM and goes until 11PM.

The Pop-Up Shop Featuring: Orisue, 9Five, Aerial7 & WeArePlus
1511 Abbot Kinney
Venice Beach, CA 90291

Make sure you RSVP at: AK1511.com/RSVP
(21+ Only)

Source: Orisue