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10 Places to Shop Local BG

As our state and community continue to reopen and things normalize, please continue to shop local to support our fellow small businesses that have suffered in recent months. Here are just a few options for small businesses that you can support in the Bowling Green area!

 

Spencer’s Coffee

 

Spencer’s is our neighbor and coffee supplier (we literally could not survive without the caffeine)! They are currently offering carryout and curbside pickup at their downtown location and drive-thru at their new location on the bypass. — My personal favorite is the honey badger latte and I love their breakfast bowl.

Downtown: 915 College St, Bowling Green, KY 42101 

Bypass: 1265 U.S. 31-W, Bowling Green, KY 42101 

 

Griff’s Deli 

 

Griff’s has everything! Sandwiches, paninis, salads, spuds, soups, cheesecakes, and so much more- one of my favorite menu items is their pasta salad. They’re open for dine-in, carry out, and delivery every day from 10:30 am- 9 pm.

1640 Scottsville Rd, Bowling Green, KY 42103

 

Great American Donut Shop (GADS) 

 

I’m pretty sure everyone in Bowling Green has heard of GADS and loves every single one of their donuts. However, if you’ve never been this is your sign to get in the car and go right now.  They are open 24/7 so you never have to wait a minute longer than you have to for your donut fix. ( I highly recommend blueberry cake!)

901 U.S. 31 W Bypass, Bowling Green, KY 42101

 

 Lisa’s 5th Street Diner

 

Lisa’s is the definition of a classic diner. Everything there is homemade and made with love. Their dining room is open again, but they are also offering pick up and delivery from 5 am- 2 pm every day!

430 Center St, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101

 

Kyoto Gardens

 

Kyoto is one of my personal favorites. They have a great selection of hibachi grilled meals and sushi. They’re open for limited dine-in and carryout Mon-Sat 11 am – 9 pm and Sunday 11 am – 4 pm.  (p.s. WKU students get 10% with your student ID)

760 Campbell Ln # 110, Bowling Green, KY 42104 

 

Stuck in the Kitchen 

 

Ashley Stuckey runs this business through her Instagram page. Every Sunday she makes a no-doubt delicious meal that you can pick up from her at Muse Apts. She makes something different every week, check her Instagram to see if she’s having a shrimp boil, BBQ, pasta, sandwiches, or anything else you could think of that Sunday.

 

Jules with the Flowers 

 

Jules is open for deliveries and in-store shopping. She makes the most beautiful bouquets, has great house plants, and always has fun trinkets in the shop. You can order a bouquet online, or keep up with her Instagram stories to see what new plants she has in!

802 Broadway Ave, Bowling Green, KY 42101

 

Back Down South Boutique 

 

Back Down South is an adorable boutique with trendy outfits and accessories nestled in Fountain Square Park. They are open Mon-Sat 11 am- 7 pm and Sun 12 pm- 4 pm. You can shop in person or have your orders shipped to you! (PS pets are always welcome in the store- our kind of people!)

433 Park Row, Bowling Green, KY 42101

 

Mellow Matt’s Music and More 

 

If you’re trying to build your vinyl collection, this is your place. You can find records and CD’s of famous artists like the Beatles, but also from local and regional musicians. And under normal circumstances, you might be able to find someone recording in there or even catch a live show!

1200 Smallhouse Rd, Bowling Green, KY 42104

 

Slow as Folk

 

Sarah Gust has always been a friend of Ment, and she makes the cutest polymer clay earrings and illustrations. Check out her website to add a new statement to your jewelry collection. She is offering a jewelry-making workshop right now in her studio so you can get her awesome earrings, but make them yourself!

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Let’s Move Into May

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From a few backyard workout sessions to a community-wide movement, our latest community partner Allison Millet of Bowling Green Backyard Bootcamp has taken her business from her home to all around the Bowling Green community.

We could all use a little extra motivation right now and that’s where our fitness friend Allison Millet comes in!

“There are ways that we can all have more movement. It’s about finding ways to focus on you.” 

 

About Allison

Allison has been a coach for over 20 years and has taken her passion for fitness to the next level since the start of her backyard workouts in 2010. 

What started as a small group of people began to grow until the lot beside her home was no longer sufficient. She soon found herself asking, “Now what?” 

Millet now holds classes at multiple parks and locations throughout the community and has an inside gym location during winter months. 

Backyard Bootcamp is made up of a team of coaches all offering their own set of classes from yoga and stretching, to classes designed specifically for glutes, abs, upper body, and more, along with mash-up and all-encompassing workout classes. Basically, if you need it, they offer it! 

The classes are focused on helping bootcampers find the best version of themselves that they can be – one that is healthier and happier. 

 

Working out your mind

As we know, it’s mental health awareness month so we’re all trying to focus on our health a little more here lately, right? Did you know practicing a little extra movement can be just the way to do that?! No, I promise this isn’t a gimmick to make you put down the wine glass and hop on the treadmill – it’s me simply reminding you that getting up and getting out (in your front yard or on your yoga mat that is) may be just what the doctor ordered. 

“It’s a stress reliever… working out releases those happy endorphins,” says Allison. 

Studies show that we’re not lying guys! You’re hearing this straight from the mouth of someone who can barely touch her toes most days, so believe me when I tell you that having a little extra time on my hands lately to practice yoga has been an excellent relief for me. The best part is? You don’t even have to be good at it! You just have to do it.  

 

Making it happen

Allison also spoke on the importance of living a healthy lifestyle by doing things such as practicing healthy eating habits and enjoying the simple things in life like spending time with family and being in the moment. 

The local business owner has not let the current circumstances get the best of her. When regulations were put in place, she was quick to adapt and switch to an online format for all of her classes. Allison stays connected mainly via Facebook with a group page specifically for those who are members or what she calls “bootcampers.” All calendars and weekly challenges are now online and can be found on the calendar on her website.

Classes are offered on a 6-week basis allowing people to sign up ahead of time and take part in the bootcamp experience. (Ment members — you guys are in for a treat!) As of right now, all community members are invited to join the classes at any time. Another perk with the new format: bootcampers currently have access to the online “vault” of all previously recorded classes, allowing everyone to work out on their own time. 

For more details (trust me you’re gonna want to see all of the awesome things she is doing) check out her website and start moving toward a better you! 

 

Moving on up (and hopefully outside) 

We’re moving in a direction of our own here at Ment Cowork. One that includes taking steps to get back on track as a bit of normality creeps back into our daily routines. Here’s to hoping, better yet knowing, that our partner Allison can help us out with this one! Whether we’re fighting the daily struggles of COVID-19 or fighting to shed those pesky pounds, success is just a kick, punch, and a few “you can do it!”-s away.

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Sticking True to Our Core Values

We made sure that we had a set of clearly defined core values in place for Ment Cowork before opening our doors to the public nearly two years ago. Without them where would we be? Probably still struggling to figure out exactly how we need to cater to our members and community. …ugh how awful that would be!

So in the midst of all the madness, we are reminding you that we haven’t forgotten what we are all about here.

Our Four Core

 

1. Membership: To place emphasis on people and their opportunities to interact with one another

Without our members, we wouldn’t be where we are today. As a member, you are more than just a customer, you are a part of a growing community and we aim to put value in that. We are a space that allows you to meet others, interact, work, attend and host workshops and events (and drink unlimited coffee!) all in the center of the city. Now that is a membership worth committing to (unlike my gym membership…RIP).

 

2. Environment: To harvest and focus on cultivating the totality of members surrounding conditions, friend to friend

Bringing Ment and community members together for fellowship and work spaces means they are getting a one of a kind (literally – we’re the only ones in Bowling Green!) experience. We continue to offer consistency with an eye pleasing aesthetic and office style that allows you to choose the best work area for you.

 

3. Nourishment: To provide an open space to live, create and thrive

Just like everything else in life, we need the time (and the place) to create, grow and thrive. Encouragement goes a long way, as does a smile and an uplifting atmosphere. A space that connects you with people and opportunities just might be what you need to nourish your mind, soul and career.

 

4. Commencement: To be a community where members self-select to begin each professional endeavor

At Ment, we know that you are {Ment} for great things and that’s why we started this place to begin with! Working shouldn’t have a specific set of rules – it’s all about freedom to do what you need to do in a way that best works for you. Doing so sets you on a path that allows you to make and build connections and become more productive. We can’t wait to see you succeed!

 

 

Sticking True

Not losing sight during this time is important. Make sure you know how to keep your company values inline. Here’s what we’re doing during COVID-19:

-Maintaining communication. We are staying in contact with the public and our members to keep them updated via social media, email and newsletters…did we mention virtual happy hours with our members? Yes please!

-Offering community support. It is our job to support and uplift other small businesses during this hardship. We are checking in on our local friends and even planning a virtual meet-up and collaboration session! (more details to come).

-Keeping our facilities clean. Safety is number one and that’s why we have cracked down on cleaning and reducing use of community shared products and items. One of our own members and favorite cleaning companies On Target Cleaning has been working extra hard for us lately!

-Continuing membership perks and community partnerships to allow us to keep bringing the best of Bowling Green to our Ment community (even from a distance).

-Adapting to changes and making the best of our situation with a smile on our faces and giving out tons of virtual hugs along the way.

-Most importantly, we are encouraging others to be as productive as possible while working at home and helping others realize that remote work has its perks. We know you don’t want to be stuck at home forever but also don’t want to go back to the office, so we’re reminding you that we are here when this mess clears up!

Why

Researcher and business consultant Jim Collins speaks on the topic of creating the right values. His blog talks about the importance of sticking true to your values even in the time of (for example) an economic downturn. Sound familiar? During the current COVID-19 pandemic, we want our values to reign true and be both timeless and sustainable. How do you do this? By looking at what is really important in your business and make sure that you are focusing on your audience.

“It should be about what you can do for others, not what they can do for you,” says Leona Morelock, branding specialist and our current community partner.

Core Values are important and we are not straying from them anytime soon. Remember to stay positive, stay authentic and stay educated during these times on what you can do to continue to serve your clients, customers, members, etc. during these trying times.

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Shopping Local – Now is the Time

Shopping local has always been important, but now more than ever, these small businesses need our help. It’s up to us as citizens of Bowling Green, to step and do our part. 

There are so many ways that you can contribute to the continuation of your local businesses. We are offering encouragement to our fellow local companies and doing our part here at Ment to give back to those who have done so much for us. 

WHY

Did you know that shopping local helps fund more money back into your city? 

Reports show that $68 dollars of every $100 spent locally stays in your community. Local businesses tend to purchase from other local businesses, farms and service providers. This means that there is more of a financial return is being made and improving the local tax base. Environmental impacts are also reduced because less transportation, fuel and packaging is needed.  

More jobs opportunities, more choices, unique products with a personal touch, and quality customer service. Local. Is. The. Key. 

HOW

The effects of the COVID-19 and government regulations have forced many businesses to get creative with their practices and adapt to the current situations by creating new ways of offering their services and products. So how are they doing this and how can we help? 

Order out. Many restaurants and food services have closed their doors but are still offering carry out services and/or delivery. Services like DoorDash and GrubHub have seen a huge increase in business and many of these food providers not already on board with delivery, are now partnering with them. Some food organizations are keeping their drive-thru options open and taking extra precautions. 

Online shopping. Those businesses offering products such as clothing or gifts, have switched to online formats where customers can still shop and are pushing their online sales. We’d be fooling ourselves if we said we aren’t going to be at home shopping online so we might as well just embrace it and check-out some styles from our favorite local stores. 

Gift cards and gift certificates have become a popular option for many. For some, this is an additional option, but for others, it may be their only source of income at the moment. Besides, you really can’t go wrong with gift cards! Set aside some of that money that you already know will be going towards that favorite boutique of yours and treat yourself when they open back up. This is also a perfect option for gifting those special people in our lives who may have a birthday or special occasion coming up. 

Make donations. For some of our friends offering services, these times can be especially trying as options may be even more limited. It’s important to show our support and let them know that we haven’t forgotten about them. This may mean sending them a small gift or donation to let them know that you still support them. After all, giving back to them means they will be more inclined to return the favor when circumstances change. 

Word of mouth. If all other options are not possible or your finances won’t allow you to do so, simply spreading the word about your favorite local businesses and letting others know, can go a long way. Leave them a good review, share their social posts, or simply give them a call and check to see how they’re doing. Maybe there are other ways you can help. 

WHO

They are everywhere! You won’t have to look far to figure out where or who to go to during these times. 

Our community partner is just one of the many who are still offering services in their own creative ways. You can place orders from Jules With The Flowers and pre-pay online or over the phone at 502-303-4050. Orders will be delivered by door drop-offs or as Jules calls it “ding dong ditch style,” or by running orders out to your car. Jules Sandlin and her business can be found on social media for additional news and changes. 

Flowers are the perfect way to liven up with all of the doom and gloom that we’ve been feeling lately (and still allow us to do our part in “Going Green”). Most of Jules’ items and products are perishable so it’s especially important that if you’re wanting some fresh florals, to CALL NOW. Remember our friends and family members with birthdays and events that are now cancelled? This is another awesome way to gift them and show your love!

“During this weird time, it is our responsibility to do our part to combat the spread of COVID-19 within our team and to our patrons,” Sandlin said. However, “Flowers and plants sure do liven things up during doomsday,” she also states. 

Community Businesses

We have compiled a list of some of your local businesses that are still open (in one way or another) and some of the options they are offering: 

  • Spencer’s Coffee – Takeout orders only. Delivery and online orders coming soon. E-Gift Cards 10% off $50 or more. 270- 393-7060.
  • Chainey’s Dairy Barn. Curbside and window walk-up service available. Call ahead orders.Buy a $25 Chaney’s gift card for only $20. 270-843-5567.
  • Beet Box. Delivery options still available to Bowling Green/Warren County, Glasgow & Franklin areas. Visit website for additional info. Curbside Pickup available during daily store hours. 270-418-9735. 
  • Zest – Juice for Life.  Pre-order and in-store pickup available. Call ahead, website or social media orders. 270-791-8235. 
  • Bowling Green Backyard Bootcamp. New online fitness classes program. 270-791-5312. 
  • GADS Doughnuts. Delivery and drive-thru options available. 270-842-7155.
  • White Squirrel Brewery. Curbside pickup and delivery options available 4-7 p.m. daily. 15% off all to go orders. 270-904-1573. 
  • Grant’s Farm Produce. Open regular business hours with produce readily available. 270-202-4036. 5960 Louisville Road Bowling Green, KY 42101.
  • Community Farmers Market. Tuesdays 2:00-6:00 pm, and Saturdays 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Open air markets taking place outside. 
  • Steel Mill & Co.. Revised hours of 9-5 p.m. daily with curbside order pickups available and online shopping with free shipping. 270-904-7970. 

For more details on resources and local operating businesses, check Buy Local Bowling Green for daily updates and business changes or WBKO for a full list of open restaurants. 

Bowling Green is one of the many communities that is fighting during these times, but like many, we are standing strong and showing support for the place that we call home. Now that you’re stalked up on toilet paper, go buy from our local friends and give your community some love! 

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Bringing Life Into Your Workspace

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Social distancing doesn’t include plants am I right?! We love our green friends now more than ever! Whether it’s for the little extra mood boost that they are giving us, the improved air quality and immune system boost or the new home projects we can take on with them, they have become our new favorite thing.

Did we mention it’s officially spring? Unfortunately, some of the joys of our beloved season have taken a backseat to the issues surrounding our current COVID-19 pandemic…but let’s not forget the importance of making the best from our situations. 

And let’s also not forget – creating your ideal work space is key in having an environment that motivates and inspires you. If you are not happy in your workspace, then chances are you are not producing your best work. 

Kicking it back

If we take a look back on that little danish lifestyle term “hygge” and our previous theme from February, we can find that plants are just one of the many ways that you can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere (and one that allows you to be more productive). It’s all about finding those little things that bring us joy and comfort – something that has become a must here lately as we could all use a little extra hygge right about now. 

 

All about the Biophilic Design

When it’s hard to get outside – bring the outside in! Don’t just take our word for it, there is an actual term for this practice and one that Ment has 

greatly taken into consideration with the design of our coworking space.

“Biophilia refers to the fact that as human beings, we have an instinctive bond with nature and our natural surroundings.”

The use of Biophilic design has many benefits including enhanced wellbeing and boosts in worker morale. Research shows that flowers generate happiness and reduce stress related depression while also improving memory and concentration. 

 

Health Benefits

There are some crazy cool benefits that can come from plants. Did you know air quality is actually a major problem? Even more so in your own house than in the middle of a city! This is because air pollutants make their way into these places that we call home and many times don’t make their way out. This leads to increased chances of bacteria and viruses…sound familiar? 

Let’s not forget about how big of a role mental health plays in our wellbeing. It is important more so now than ever before that we don’t take this for granted. Simply being around a plant, whether looking at it, smelling it or just working around it can lead to positive effects on the brain, boosting your moods which in turn boosts your immune system and relieves stress. What don’t these little guys do?! 

 

Redecorating time is here

If you’re looking for a way to fill an empty corner or add some color then of course Plants are the perfect way to do that as well. With the extra time on our hands, it could be the perfect opportunity for us to all do some much needed redecorating. Turns out theres even a science behind it. Using the techniques of Feng Shui can move you in the right direction towards using them effectively. 

 

Get creative

You know you’ve been looking at those home projects and wishing you had the chance to do them yourself – chances are you do now. Get creative with nontraditional ways of displaying your florals and greenery such as on carts, benches, shelves, crates, or even a ladder (per my next home project for my own house). Limited on space? Get a little crazy and hang them around! Hanging plants are always a unique and fun way to show off the life of your plants! 

Still wanting to stick with your roots of desk and table plants? No problem – get crafty! The amount of cute and creative plant pots that I have come across recently is enough to make you want to buy a plant anyways. Paint your own and make it your next DIY project – this way you can make sure that your pots and decor match your space in a way that you want them to.

 

 

Get floral

If you thought this was only about green, think again. Flowers are just as important and if not more aesthetic than your ordinary plants. Not to mention, they add an extra pop of color while giving you many of the same benefits that your greenery provides. Many local shops are finding ways to remain active with customers, so contact your local florist to see if there are options for you to get your hands on some florals during this pandemic. 

 

Fake it till you make it

Sometimes, for many reasons such as allergies, workplace restrictions, (or in this case, the unfortunate times of a Coronavirus outbreak) we turn to using man made greenery. This a perfectly acceptable (and honestly smart in my opinion) way to bring the outdoors in without all of the hassle and heartbreak of having to depart from your once full of life peony. With the latest announcement made by Governor Beshear, it’s harder than ever to get out and buy local products, so this may be your best option at the moment. It’s the cost effective gift that keeps giving! 

 

 

Asking our partner

We couldn’t pass up the opportunity to ask our community partner Jules Sandlin, owner of Jules with the Flowers and current community partner, for her take on this. Sandlin says that using unique things found in nature such as twigs, leaves and even moss can be unique ways to add a personal and natural touch.

“These things just add an extra element of texture and nature and that’s always a good idea.” 

Most important: have fun and create a space that is truly your own! Use this time away to make your work or home environment the best that it can be. No matter the budget or style that you’re going for, there is a design that works for you and we can guarantee that it has some greenery and color with your name on it. 

We simply have to give a shoutout to our partner Jules for the added beauty this month around our offices and for not letting the unfortunate circumstances stand in the way of our partnership. We are thankful to have such an amazing workspace that captures the feels and vibes that we aim for. From the exposed brick and perfectly placed greenery, (all thanks to Sarah Smalling Interiors), to the skylights and windows galore, we have captured the essence of nature in a way that makes us Ment and we hope that you can do the same for your workspace. After all, there’s just something about that natural life that we just can’t get enough of these days!

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The Art of Coworking

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Since starting my internship, I can safely say that Ment Cowork has become a safe haven for me. A place in which I can be myself, express myself and simply “be.” Ment has mastered the art of coworking. Not a thing? We think it should be! 

The ability to bring together people from different backgrounds, companies, walks of life, and work in the same space with the same end goal in mind: to Get stuff done. It takes a special set of skills, that’s for sure. 

How we do it

Maybe it’s the awesome interns we have, the owners that first saw potential in this 130 year-old building, the ever-growing and supportive community in which we sit upon or the amazing members that have set up a “home” here at Ment. 

Not to mention, we have this whole community partner collaboration thing on lock. Didn’t know that we provide event space as well? You do now! Even more so, we are fans of local art and have nothing against housing work here at Ment. Just ask our community partner for this month – Slow as Folk!

Amenities

We know what people want and we’ve got it down to a science. Member perks, discounts, coffee, parking passes and aesthetics – just call us the masters!

We are also super in touch with the concept of hygge here at Ment – something that we believe is an art of it’s own. We have learned to incorporate this feeling and lifestyle practice into our workspace…and the feedback has been nothing short of great!

Success!

We took a chance when we started with an empty floor and created something truly inspiring. Only a few years under our belt and we have become a masterpiece standing tall in the center of downtown Bowling Green. Ment represents so much more than just a space to work, we are an integrative community that advocates for all workplaces and individuals to do what they do best in a place that allows them to reach their potential. 

At Ment, we believe in the importance of art and want to provide an atmosphere where people feel invited to work in. Whether you’re inventing the next code for NASA or creating your latest masterpiece, we support you and all of your endeavors. You are {Ment} for great things! 

Want to know more about our story? Check out our blog on how community manager Hayley knew it was Ment to be. 

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Celebrating Art and Self Expression

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Art comes in all different forms: films, music, paintings, photos, entertainment. The decor in our homes, the furniture we sit on, the clothes we wear – people often forget these can all be called art! Chances are you have incorporated it into your life one way or another. With our community partner being Slow as Folk, let’s take a look at how important art can truly be as a tactic to express ourselves.

From her style to her designs, creator of Slow as Folk, Sarah Gust is a walking showcase for art. Growing up, Gust was not raised in an artistic environment. She was not even made aware of her talents until discovering them for herself in college.

“It just became my main way of expressing myself… It’s what I’ve always done,”

Being a photographer, I can relate to Sarah in that I never thought of myself as an artist. After many years of experience and education, I have developed a whole new sense of respect for those in the field. It is a path in life that allows us to not only capture beautiful moments, but tell stories and express ourselves in the process. This can be said for any medium. We are all artists in some shape or form. From the way you decorate your desk, to how you take notes, to the shirt you choose to put on. (This is probably the individualist in me thinking this.)

Why it’s important:

If we put our thoughts and emotions into a physical form, it allows us to be in control of them. Research shows that art can improve our cognitive and motor capabilities as well as our communication and emotional skills. It can also improve blood flow and promote a healthy mind. So with all of these positives, why not take an active part in it?

How and where you can practice art:

Not sure where to look? Bowling Green is bursting with art! Active workshops and locations that allow you to become your own artist such as Board & Brush, The Paint’n Place and The Pots Place. Want to observe? We have the perfect spots for this as well: Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center(SKyPAC) has multiple theatres, galleries and classes to choose from year round. The Capitol Arts Center, located right in the heart of downtown also offers theatre performances and galleries. The A-Frame is a unique venue featuring local artists’ work, live music and events to the community. Want to be a part of an art networking community? Joining BG Makers may be right up your alley.  

At Ment, we support anything that allows you to express yourself and bring out your potential. Get out in the community or even stop into Ment and get started on those things that get your heart racing and put stars in your eyes. 

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All About the Benefits of a Day Pass. Try it For Yourself!

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If you are scrolling through our site, you are probably familiar with the amenities Ment Cowork has to offer. But have you heard about our day pass or thought about the endless opportunities it could serve you? If you are working in business, quit scrolling and take a few minutes to find out how you could improve. 

For just $25 a day, you can come and work on the second floor of 911 College Street, distraction free. With access to a soundproof phone booth, a conference room and a variety of thoughtfully designed work spaces, Ment offers the amenities to make you look and feel top of the line. Rather than meeting in that overcrowded coffee shop or trying to find some peace and quiet while on your next conference call, give the day pass a chance and find out how much work you could really be getting done. At the end of the day, time is money. I’d say we all can appreciate the value of both of those. 

How much money could you make with out $25 day pass? Don’t ask us…ask a few of our frequent day pass attendees. 

Skylar Wooden, owner of Wooden Writes: “I’m able to do 100% of my work from home. But, working from home sometimes comes with distractions, making it more cost-effective to work outside of the house (e.g. a coffee shop). Though I work in coffee shops often, I cannot have successful client calls with all of the loud chatter. So, buying day passes has allowed me to be in a quiet space with access to a phone booth. The space is also beautiful, so any time I’ve needed branding photos for either of my websites, I’ve had them taken at Ment; I bought a day pass for that as well.”

Kirsty Washam, owner of Fed Up Pharmacist: “The Ment Cowork day pass is perfect for my growing business. It gives me a quiet & professional space to work and meet clients. And all of my clients have had wonderful things to say about Ment! I’m thankful Bowling Green has a wonderful space like this.”

 

Click here to purchase a day pass and take your business to the next level. 

 

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The Convenience of Coworking

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Work when you want & can

 

Coworking spaces are on the rise all around the world. If you are following Ment, I’m sure you are familiar with who we are and what we offer by now. However, have you really thought of the benefits you could gain by giving coworking a try? 

 

You have heard it before, one of the biggest pros to coworking is convience. Before you look scroll past and ignore the rest of this post, I want you to break down your life and ask yourself how convenient it is. Are you commuting an hour to your office every day? Trying to work 9-5 at your home office while starting a family? Driving 15 minutes to spend $5 on a fancy latte just to share on your instagram story? Neglecting cooking dinner every night due to your chaotic, all over the place work schedule? Lets face it, we all have things that come up last minute and cause inconvenience, but often times we place ourselves right there in the very situation. 

 

Coworking instills a convenient, professional workplace that you can go to, right in the heart of your town. For an affordable price, you are able to know and trust the environment you work in and get things done, so you have time for fun later in the evening without feeling guilty. 

 

The friendly environment that coworking offers provides individuals with a community rather than competition, whether it be working together to complete tasks, or even blow off some steam over a cup of coffee. Coworking allows you to network and build connections with like minded individuals who will inspire you to do your best. 

 

Do you travel for work? Many coworking companies offer sister spaces, in which you can go and work for free. There’s nothing worse than working out of your hotel room or airport between flights. Here at Ment, we partner with IHub and Center 615, based out of Louisville and Nashville to provide free day passes to our traveling members. 

 

Overall, coworking reduces uncertainty and allows you to leave your work where it belongs – at work. What is your next step to add convenience in your life? 

 

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How Do You Define Your Values?

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From the first time a potential customer hears your company’s name, they are subconsciously analyzing what makes up that company. Things like why are they here? what do they do? and what makes them stand out? are among the questions that wrack a consumer’s brain and this is all before they consider buying your product or using your service.

In this day and age, consumers are getting online and researching all there is to know about a company before applying for a job, eating at their restaurant or even just getting a haircut. The decision is made before they step foot into your space. Your online presence and your brand convey something a good review just cannot say: your values.

It is important to define a company’s values in a language that is plain and simple so that customers can grasp them, but complex enough to define your entire brand in just a few words. Values allow the potential consumer to really take a glimpse inside your brand and see whether they align their beliefs with yours. Today, a company’s values are just as important as the first sale and it is imperative for a brand to have them and use them well.

First and foremost, a set of values identify a brand to its consumers. It shows the company in a favorable light and provides the customer with all that the brand is and wants to be. Values clarify what a firm stands for, and if they have a great set of values compared to a competitor that has lax values, (or none at all) I know I would choose the one with the clear values backing their brand.

Values allow a company to have something to fall back on in light of a difficult decision. If a conflict arises, a company can look to their values to answer there question. If one of their values is honesty and they are knee-deep in a scandal, it might be best to tell the public the truth.

Ment has been focusing on defining our values recently and we thought we could share our process with you in hopes that it could help your business maybe do the same.

First off, we sat down and did our research. There are five existing core values for the coworking industry: Community, Openness, Collaboration, Accessibility and Sustainability. While these values are ones we uphold as well, we felt there were different words to describe how Ment feels and how we want it to feel for others. Therefore we pulled up our handy dandy Google search and began looking for other words that stuck out to us but still fell under the five industry values. There were many (a lot) of -ment words that we pulled out and as you will see we kept a few of them too.

We wanted to really harvest what we were trying to do as a coworking space and then provide that to the members and the community of Bowling Green as a whole. With this, we landed on four core words that we ended up realizing they cultivated the image of a plant growing into a garden.

Take a step back and think about what makes up your brand, what makes it stand out, and what you want to convey to the public. Those qualities are what will make up your values. Proceed then to share them on a website, blog, or on your social media accounts. Your values will allow you to dive deeper toward your customers and provide a more personal approach to business which will result in a brand that will last through any recession, any hiccup, and any mistake.

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