Camping adventures planned: from the idea to the roof tent

The video is about a family called Gittel, consisting of Tino, Yvonne and their daughter Samiya, who are preparing for a camping adventure. Tino has the idea of getting his family excited about camping, although Yvonne has always preferred hotel vacations. In the video you can see their thoughts on how to choose the roof tent from iKamper and plan their trip, including the choice of campsite.

iKamper is a popular brand for roof tents. You can read more about it here:

• IKamper roof tent

You can watch the video here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uf5K8JMaoKE

The fascination of camping adventures: costs, equipment & family

The camping trend is enjoying great popularity, and many people cherish the desire for unrestricted freedom. They long for a vacation in the great outdoors that allows them to sleep in the most beautiful places and move on flexibly, depending on their mood. Whether you opt for a caravan, motorhome or tent depends on your personal preferences. According to a study by the ADAC, there are already 15 million enthusiastic campers in Germany. But how do you find your way around this wide range?

Between skepticism & anticipation: camping on vacation

Tino, Yvonne and Samiya Gittel live in North Rhine-Westphalia. Tino has come up with something special for his next vacation: he wants to get his family interested in camping. He thinks camping is very exciting, while his wife Ivonne is skeptical at first. She is worried that she will have to restrict herself too much in terms of space and comfort. However, their nine-year-old daughter is also enthusiastic about the idea. She has already been on a camping vacation with her aunt and had a lot of fun. So her mother is going to try it out for her sake.

This family tests camping: Ivonne, Tino and daughter Samiya.

Camping solution: roof tent, tent trailer & caravan

Sure, this year the decision has been made to go camping. However, there are different types of camping. Should it be a caravan or motorhome, or would you prefer a tent or caravan? The variety of options is considerable. A motorhome or caravan undoubtedly offers a certain level of luxury. But Tino has heard from relatives and friends who are faced with the problem of having to put their vehicle somewhere at the end of the season year after year.

A folding caravan or tent trailer, which is more compact than a caravan, is ruled out as it is too time-consuming for the family to set up. After extensive research on the Internet, the Gittels finally decide on a roof tent. Most rooftop tents on the net only offer a standard sleeping area of 1.40 meters maximum, which is too narrow for three people. Finally, they came across a suitable option – the X-Cover from iKamper, which is large enough to accommodate four people, measuring 2.10 by 1.90 meters.

Here you can quickly compare the considerations of the Gittel family:

The solution to the space problem: a larger roof tent! (Tip: You can find suitable sizes under: Roof tent for 2 people, Roof tent for 3 people, Roof tent for 4 people and Roof tent for 5 people).

Price of roof tents: Search for bargains

In terms of price, roof tents range between 800 and 4,000 euros. The decisive criteria for buying a roof tent are a sleeping area of at least 1.60 meters wide, quick set-up and an affordable price, with a pain threshold of 3,000 euros. The Gittels’ dream roof tent is somewhat expensive at 3,300 euros. However, you can also find second-hand tents on the Internet, which means you can make considerable savings. They browse for new items and bargains. Tino and Yvonne find what they are looking for: their dream tent now costs just 2,500 euros.

Price: 800 – 4,000 euros (used: around 2,500 euros)

Searching for the campsite: preparation & planning

Tino’s next challenge is to find the right campsite, which is no easy task given that there are almost 2,800 campsites in Germany. But which of these campsites is the right one for the family? The selection criteria are many and varied, because it’s not just about the campsite’s facilities. The family is looking for cleanliness and peace and quiet, which is why Tino believes that it is important to find out about the campsites in advance, for example by reading reviews and ratings.

They also want the campsite to have certain facilities, including a playground and a restaurant, to ensure they can cater for themselves on site. A site with at least four stars is preferred, and it should be a reasonably priced alternative to a hotel. In addition, they need to consider what sights they want to see and what activities they want to do. For more comfort, the roof tent is mounted on a trailer.

If you want to go camping with your child, these criteria can also help you find the right campsite:

• Reviews & ratings
• Cleanliness, relaxation & tranquillity
• Amount of the price
• Sights & activities
• Playground & restaurant?

Not just planning a campsite: buying accessories

Before the journey can begin, Tino and Yvonne have to do some shopping, including two sleeping bags, two sleeping mats as well as pots, crockery and cutlery to ensure that they are well supplied during the trip. Of course, a second-hand camping kitchen is also a must in the trailer. Tino is particularly concerned about the provisions, as he appreciates a certain level of comfort.

You need this absolute basic equipment in any case:

• Sleeping bags
• Sleeping mats
• Kitchen
• Pots
• Tableware
• Cutlery

Tip! You can read about what else you should take with you and other important camping tips here: Camping accessories.

Environmental protection & choice of destination: car & travel

A big advantage for Tino and Yvonne are the operating costs, as they use an electric car. This means that they only have to pay around 70 euros in electricity costs for a 500 km journey, compared to almost 100 euros if they were to use an older petrol car. It is also a more environmentally friendly travel option. For a shorter trip, the family opts for the North Sea coast and Cuxhaven as their destination. Friends of theirs are also camping there, and they like it too.

These tips will help you protect the environment and your wallet:

• Electric car: lower operating costs
• Choice of destination: not too far away

Is it worth it? Camping adventures with the family

In conclusion, the question arises as to whether the financial outlay was worth it and whether a camping vacation can be considered a cost-effective alternative to a hotel stay. The Gittel family is satisfied with their camping adventure. Samiya sleeps restfully in the roof tent and all family members can switch off in the fresh North Sea air without an all-inclusive program and time pressure. This vacation has brought the family closer together and they are ready for more camping adventures.

Here is the conclusion of our tester family in a nutshell:

• Satisfied Gittel family
• Restful sleep in the roof tent
• Relax in the fresh North Sea air
• Strengthening family cohesion
• More camping adventures with pleasure

Rooftop tent manufacturer: Overview for beginners

Would you also like to buy your first roof tent for the family? You can find many different manufacturers here:

• Rooftop tent manufacturer

Roof tent comparison: the best roof tent?

To help you find the right one, you can take a look at this comparison.

• Rooftop tent comparison

Vacation is always expensive, right?

The vacation season is just around the corner and you didn’t manage to save that much this year? Don’t worry, vacations don’t always have to be expensive!

You get off particularly cheap with a roof tent, because after the purchase price you save all travel costs. Our expert (from Campwerk roof tents) will tell you exactly how to do this. Campwerk sells roof tents, tent trailers and camping accessories, so our expert knows the subject really well and has answered some questions with a lot of joy on the subject.

Want to bring the kids along? Then you’ll find more helpful tips for camping trips with your offspring here:

• Camping with the family

Cheap camping with the family: roof tent & accessories

FIV: Thanks for letting us meet for the interview. What tips do you have for families who want to save money on vacation and still have an unforgettable experience?

Campwerk: One idea to save money and still have a great camping vacation is to choose nearby destinations with your family first to reduce gas costs. You can save further with seasonal deals and cheap campsites, as well as by planning your own meals and free activities. You can also learn more little tips and hacks by sharing with other campers.

Accessories & Equipment: What you need in any case!

FIV: What camping equipment and accessories do you think are indispensable for a successful trip with the whole family in the roof tent?

Campwerk: Even if you want to save money, there are some things you should definitely take with you. These include a spacious roof tent, comfortable sleeping bags and sleeping pads, a folding camping table with enough chairs, cooking utensils, a camping lamp or headlamp, a cooler or cooler bag, a tool and repair kit, mosquito repellent, a well-stocked first aid kit, and sun and rain protection. If you choose high-quality products, you have more chance of them lasting a long time, even if they cost more at first.

Advantages of the roof tent: No hotel costs

FIV: What advantages do you see in traveling with a roof tent, especially compared to traditional accommodations?

Campwerk: Compared to other accommodations, rooftop tent camping offers cost-effective lodging options because you don’t have to book expensive hotels or vacation homes. Traveling with a roof tent is a great way to save money during your adventures. Moreover, you save on travel expenses and at your destination you still have to spend money on bus and the like. This way you can reduce other expenses and use your travel funds for other activities and experiences.

Destinations & campsites: Tips for places & how to get there

FIV: First, prospective campers should pick a destination. What routes or destinations do you recommend for families who want to travel budget-consciously with a roof tent?

Campwerk: In Germany, natural areas such as Saxon Switzerland in the east and the Black Forest in the southwest offer inexpensive or free campsites for an intensive nature experience. With impressive rock formations and spectacular mountain scenery, these regions allow for inexpensive camping along scenic routes. Travelers can explore rural areas and avoid tourist strongholds. Find destinations and camping tips here: Camping in Germany.

Choosing campgrounds outside of expensive major cities and using permitted wild camping options offer additional savings opportunities.

You can read more about it here:

• Wild camping

Search for the right campsite: planning

FIV: In order for a camper to find a suitable campsite, he should plan well. What experiences have you had when it came to finding inexpensive campsites or overnight accommodations for families?

Campwerk: It is often helpful for families to use online platforms to search for cheap campsites and accommodation. There are dedicated websites and apps that list campgrounds, RV sites and cheap accommodations and offer user-friendly search functions. Additionally, travel blogs and forums can provide valuable information and recommendations from other families who have had experiences with cheap campsites.

It is advisable to plan and book early, especially in high season, to get the best prices and ensure there are enough available sites. Camping outside of tourist hotspots and taking advantage of wild camping opportunities in countries where it is allowed can also save you money. For that, you just need to do thorough research beforehand.

With these 5 steps you should find a cheap campsite:

1. Special websites & apps list campsites
2. Search travel blogs & forums for valuable recommendations
3. Choose campsites outside of tourist hotspots
4. Take advantage of opportunities for wild camping in permitted countries
5. Early planning & booking in high season for best prices

Get off the campsite: Cheap vacation activities

FIV: As a rule, a camper doesn’t just stay at the campsite. What inexpensive activities and attractions in nature offer families with a roof tent to keep their travel costs low, but still have unforgettable experiences?

Campwerk: You can go hiking and walking in nature, have leisurely picnics and barbecues, or swim in natural waters. Stargazing under a clear sky or wildlife watching are also inexpensive ways to discover the beauty of nature. You can also find natural playgrounds for your kids, try geocaching, or check out local festivals and events for cultural experiences.

These inexpensive activities lend themselves to nature:

• Hikes & walks in nature
• Host cozy picnics & barbecues
• Bathing in natural waters
• Stargazing under clear sky
• Wildlife watching
• Discovering natural playgrounds for children
• Geocaching as a cheap leisure activity
• Cultural experiences through festivals & events

Arrival & car ride: save fuel

FIV: What are some ways families can reduce the cost of fuel during their rooftop tent trip while minimizing their environmental impact?

Campwerk: You can do this by carpooling, driving more economically, and traveling in the off-season, when fuel prices are often cheaper. Additionally, drive moderately on the highway, have your vehicle regularly updated to new standards, choose campsites close to your destinations and environmentally friendly means of transportation such as bicycles. Not only your wallet will be happy, but also the environment.

Cooking & living on the campsite

FIV: How can families make their meals inexpensive yet delicious during a rooftop tent trip?

Campwerk: For this, you can rely on simple recipes and use staples such as rice, pasta and legumes. You can often buy fresh and local produce at affordable prices at local markets. Good supplies and the use of a camp stove allow you to prepare meals yourself, while disposable grills create an inexpensive barbecue experience.

Camping-friendly foods like canned goods and snack bars are convenient, and using shared kitchens at campgrounds can further reduce costs. Through smart planning, recycling leftovers, and additionally using water sparingly, families can conserve their travel funds.

So you can cook economically even on the campsite:

• Simple recipes with staple foods (rice, pasta, legumes).
• Buy affordable, fresh & local produce at local markets
• Use camping stove for home prepared meals
• Disposable grills for cheap barbecue experience
• Camping-friendly food (canned food, snack bars)
• Use communal kitchens at campsites
• Clever planning, use of leftovers & economical use of water

Special Tip: Organization & Do-It-Yourself Ideas

FIV: What special tips do you have for our readers at the end?

Campwerk: For cheap travel you need above all careful planning and organization. When camping, you usually have less space than in a hotel. That’s why you should only take what you need, but also make sure that you don’t have to buy too much new to save money. Find out about the fees for sanitary facilities and toilets. At most campsites they are free, but at some you will have to pay for them.

In addition, weatherproof clothing and a sturdy tent should be kept on hand to be prepared for unpredictable weather. If you invest once in good quality, you have less follow-up costs.

Extra tips for DIY campers: Everything self-made

FIV: What creative solutions and DIY ideas are there for making inexpensive and comfortable camping gear yourself?

Campwerk: There are plenty of creative DIY ideas to make inexpensive yet comfortable camping gear for families with a rooftop tent. Homemade storage solutions, camping furniture made from pallets, DIY insulation, mosquito screens and curtains can organize storage space and improve comfort. Plus, families can create a DIY camping kitchen and assemble a DIY repair kit to make their rooftop tent trip more enjoyable and affordable.

Well, curious? More about Campwerk & Roof Tents

Would you like to get to know Campwerk even better? Then learn more about these camping specialists below:

• Campwerk roof tents

Furthermore, you will find additional links to Campwerk, where you can get comprehensive tips on your first camping equipment and assemble it individually:

• Roof tent website
• Roof tent blog

More camping! Cooking in the fire, roof tent & more insider tips

Imagine: the tantalizing scent of flickering campfire in the air, the lively rustle of canvas tents, and adventurous hikes under a glittering starry sky. Whether you’re looking for comfort or need that adrenaline rush, camping holds something for everyone and promises pure bliss. And the best part? You can explore numerous breathtaking places on a small budget.

Here you will find everything about the latest high-tech gadgets for cozy living and enjoyable cooking under the open sky!

Explore the perfect campsite, travel to exciting destinations and get exclusive insider tips:

• Camping
• Camping with roof tent

You want to explore sparkling mountain lakes? Quite simply, camping fun for young and old, full of water fun and hiking adventures for the whole family!

Homeowners’ association at a glance

A condominium owners’ association (WEG) is an association of owners of apartments in a common building.

The community of owners can be described like this:

Community of all owners of a property.

As the owner of your apartment, you are a member of the WEG and have joint responsibility with the other owners for managing the common property, e.g. the staircase, the roof, the facade and the common utilities.

You also decide jointly on maintenance and repairs and on the financing of these measures. It is important to note that every decision in the WEG is made jointly and that you, as a member of the WEG, are also obliged to participate in the decisions and bear the costs.

The WEG at a glance:

• Each owner can represent his right to vote at the meeting of owners
• Each owner has a certain co-ownership share in the common property
• Each member of a WEG must bear costs for the common property
• Each owner is responsible for his or her own special property
• Each owner has to fulfill certain rights and obligations
• Each COA must have certain documents that set out rules and boundaries

The legal basis for a WEG is provided by the Condominium Act. It provides the owners with guidelines and regulations for the proper administration of the WEG. Let’s take a closer look at the Condominium Act (WEG for short).

Condominium Act (WEG)

The German Condominium Act (Wohnungseigentumsgesetz ) is of great importance to all condominium owners in Germany, as it lays down the legal foundations for the organization and management of condominium associations.

The WEG regulates, among other things, the distribution of rights and obligations between the individual owners and the community as well as the management and maintenance of the common property.

There are clear specifications for holding owners’ meetings, passing resolutions and managing funds. The establishment and duties of the management advisory board and the administrator are also regulated in the WEG.

The WEG regulates:

• The distribution of rights and obligations
• The management and maintenance of the common property
• The conduct of the meeting of owners
• The decision making
• The management of funds

The owners’ meeting is guided by the laws of the WEG:

In a WEG, every member is involved and must fulfill certain rights and obligations. In the next section, we will explain what you have to do as an owner.

Rights and obligations of the owners

As an owner in a homeowners’ association, you have certain rights and obligations. You have the right to use and manage your apartment, but you must also consider the common interests. This means that you must abide by jointly agreed rules and regulations that apply to the building and its residents.

Furthermore, as an owner in the homeowners’ association, you are obligated to participate in the management and maintenance of the common areas and facilities.

Rights of use to one’s own home

As the owner of your apartment in a homeowners’ association, you have the right to use and manage your apartment. It is up to you whether you live in the apartment yourself or rent it out. For example, you can renovate your apartment or buy new furniture, as long as you do not interfere with other owners.

The own apartment may be managed and designed by the owner, as long as the common property is not affected.

However, you must also consider the interests of the other owners and the community when using your apartment. For example, you may not make any structural changes to your apartment that could affect the appearance of the building or cause problems with other apartments.

Rights of use to common property

As an owner in a homeowners’ association, you are responsible for managing and maintaining the common areas and facilities together with the other owners. This includes, for example, the staircase, the elevator, the roof, the facade, the outdoor facilities and, if necessary, the heating system.

These rights and obligations accrue to owners on the common property:

• Management and maintenance of common areas

How these costs are financed and distributed is explained in the next section.

Financing common costs

As an owner in a homeowners’ association, you are obliged to contribute to the common costs of the association. This includes, for example, the costs for the management and maintenance of the common areas and facilities, but also the costs for the operation of the elevator, the waste disposal or the water supply.

The costs are usually calculated according to the ratio of your share in the common property. For this purpose, the declaration of division specifies which share you have in the homeowners’ association. This distribution of costs is also called the cost distribution key.

In addition to the running costs, larger maintenance or renovation measures may also be required, which are associated with a higher financial outlay. For this purpose, a reserve is usually formed, which is regularly replenished by the owners with a certain amount. This reserve is used to finance larger repairs and maintenance measures without the need for additional funds to be raised by the owners.

These costs are incurred in a WEG:

• Costs for the management and maintenance of common areas
• Costs for the operation of the elevator, waste disposal or water supply
• Maintenance reserves

The costs incurred are discussed at the owners’ meeting:

Organization of a homeowners association

The organization of a homeowners’ association is an important part of living together. There are various committees and bodies that are responsible for managing the community.

The most important body is the owners’ meeting. Here, all owners meet once a year to make important decisions and to discuss the concerns of the community.

Another important body is the management advisory board. This is elected by the owners’ meeting and supports the administrator in the management of the community.

The administrator is the executive body of the condominium owners’ association. He or she takes care of the administration of the community and ensures that all necessary work is carried out.

The most important instances of the WEG at a glance:

• WEG administrator
• Management Advisory Board
• Owners’ meeting

Now let’s take a closer look at the individual instances.

Administrator of the WEG

The administrator is the executive body of a condominium owners’ association and is responsible for the administration of the community. This includes, among other things, the organization and monitoring of maintenance measures, the preparation of accounts and communication with the owners and the various committees of the community.

The duties of the administrator include:

• Organization and monitoring of maintenance measures
• Preparation of accounts
• Communication with the owners and the various committees

The choice of a suitable administrator is therefore of great importance. As a rule, a professional management company is commissioned that has the necessary knowledge and experience. However, voluntary management by an owner is also possible.

Management Advisory Board

In addition to the administrator, there is also the management advisory board. The management advisory board consists of at least three owners. This body is elected by the owners’ meeting and has the task of supporting and monitoring the manager. However, the management advisory board has no decision-making authority and can only make recommendations.

The Management Advisory Board at a glance:

• Composed of at least three owners
• Elected by the owners’ meeting
• Supports and controls the administrator

Owners’ meeting

The owners’ meeting is the highest decision-making body and meets at least once a year. Its task is to discuss and decide on important matters concerning the community.

The owners’ meeting is convened by the administrator or by an owner. Certain deadlines and formal requirements must be observed. As a rule, invitations must be issued in writing at least two weeks before the meeting. The invitation must state the items on the agenda as well as the place, date and time of the meeting.

The typical topics of an owners’ meeting include the adoption of the business plan, the election of the manager, the vote on maintenance measures or the definition of house rules. The owners’ meeting also decides on the amount of the monthly house fees.

The community of owners at a glance:

• Meets at least once a year
• Advises on important matters of the community
• Convening takes place through the administrator

Viva con Agua: Water for all!

Clean water is far from reaching everyone. There is no clean drinking water for 771 million people. Worldwide, 3.6 billion people have no access to safe sanitation. For about 1.7 billion people, even basic sanitation is not accessible. Hygiene facilities are also not safely accessible for 2.3 billion people.

The role of soccer in the foundation

Foundation – In 2005, the first team of the FC St. Pauli soccer club went to Cuba for a training camp. During his stay in Cuba, Benjamin Adrion decided to get socially involved. In doing so, he pursued the goal of reducing the appalling conditions caused by a lack of water supply and thus laid the foundation stone for the nonprofit organization. Through the first project (water dispensers in 120 kindergartens), donations in the amount of 50,000 euros were collected, which even provided 153 kindergartens and four more sports schools with water dispensers. Viva con Agua de Sankt Pauli e.V. was founded the following year. The soccer club made everything possible and still supports the organization today. For example, the soccer club makes the Millerntor Stadium available for the social art and culture festival “Millerntor Gallery” to take place. At home games, VCA is allowed to collect deposit cups.

Viva con Aguas Approach: WASH Projects

WASH projects – With the help of joyful actions in the field of music, sports and art, the organization wants to raise awareness for clean water and thus generate donations. These funds are used to finance WASH projects. WASH means water, sanitation and hygiene. These projects are intended to improve the living conditions of many people in the long term.

The members of the Viva con Agua Family

Here you find all members of the Viva con Agua Family listed:

• Viva con Agua de Sankt Pauli e.V.
• Viva con Agua Foundation
• Viva con Agua Water Ltd.
• Goldeimer gGmbH
• Viva con Arts gGmbH
• Villa Viva Hamburg
• Villa Viva Cape Town
• WASH Beteiligungs GmbH
• Go Banyo
• Mission Impact Crew

Own product: Viva con Agua mineral water

Mineral water – Viva con Agua mineral water is a product of Viva con Agua Wasser GmbH. With the purchase of each bottle, water projects worldwide are supported through royalties. VcA mineral water offers a form of social consumption when individual circumstances decide against the use of tap water. Because tap water is the best form of water consumption! Labels are used to inform people about VcA’s goals, projects and support opportunities. Accordingly, the water bottles are VcA’s “liquid flyer”!

Photo: Viva con Agua

Saving lives with music: Viva con Agua Music

Music – Viva con Agua Music is a platform where musicians worldwide can support international water projects with their music releases and music projects. With the songs, global issues are communicated in a creative way that motivates social commitment and conveys the human right to access clean water! For this purpose, Viva con Agua cooperates with various partners, such as Chimperator Productions.

Anela Jahmena and Tsidi Bang-Bang: Lists

Listen is a song about the project LISTENING. In this project different women from the south and the north meet each other. With them: their stories. The meetings are about sharing and connecting experiences and stories of inequality.

Here is the film about the project LISTENING:

MEMORIEZ: SO FAR

With this song a new project “Remix for water” is launched. All musicians are called upon to create a remix to this song. This is to draw attention to global inequalities.

Here you can find all links to Viva con Aguas channels:

• Website
• Instagram
• TikTok
• Twitter

More about Viva con Agua

Did you like the article about Viva con Agua? Then read the interview with managing director Carolin Stündemann here!

Carolin Stündemann interviewed for Viva con Agua: Water is life

In this interview, we spoke with the managing director of Viva con Agua Carolin Stündemann. We rewound time and asked how the idea behind Viva con Agua came about. Spoiler: Soccer plays a significant role here. Carolin also gives us a little insight into the various projects and what successes they have already celebrated. Maybe you have already heard about World Water Day. It takes place once a year, and we asked how important this day is. We also talked about the current Corona pandemic and its impact on Viva con Aguas projects. Sometimes there are positive impacts as well as negative ones. How you can support the aid organization besides donations and much more, you can find out here in this interview!

• Carolin Stündemann in interview

Photo: Andrin Fretz

Finance: Basics & Explanation

Finance is the general term for finance and financial management, specifically public finance. Colloquially, it refers to the financial resources and creditworthiness of economic entities. The finances of a state are also generally referred to as the “state budget”. Records should always be kept of income and expenditure. This means that you need to constantly have an overview of finances. This task is taken over in companies and firms by the accounting department. In the following video you will learn everything you need to know about finances!

Tip! Overview Wealth Building XXL – Book, Video, Tips & Tricks

If you want to build up private wealth and create financial reserves, there are a few things you should keep in mind. In addition to the tips you get in this article, you might also be interested in our extensive overview page. There you will find an overview of articles, as well as book and video tips with successful and helpful books and videos on the subject of wealth accumulation – including tips and tricks from professionals and experts.

• Book & Video Tips Overview: Wealth Creation XXL

All you need to know: In 10 minutes

Finances: Importance & Know-How

Why should you concern yourself with finances? In this video you will learn about the importance of finances in your life.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWGxYWULMuE

Organize finances

Organising your finances is difficult for you? Don’t feel like keeping a budget book? Here you can find experiences with apps that can help you manage your finances better.

Apps & Tools for Organizing Your Finances

In the following video you will be given tips and tools on how to better organize your finances. Here you will learn 15 tips that will simplify your life.

Finances over the course of life

What finances do you encounter during the course of your life? We have the answers!

Finance: Tips & Tricks

Want to organize your finances? Then you should use money apps. These little tools are useful helpers. You can use them as a budget book. We also introduce you to trading apps. This way you can easily invest your money via your smartphone!

Finance: Mistakes & Risks

What mistakes can you make when managing your finances? Here are the most common mistakes you can make when managing your finances.

Stock Exchange & Shares

Stocks and the stock market explained for beginners! This video introduces the 2 main approaches to investing in the stock market. First, however, we explain what stocks are, how they are traded on the stock market and how a stock price is created.

Shares: Income & Wealth Creation

How much money can you earn with shares? In the following video you will learn all the important information about shares.

Related links about the topic Finances

Do you want to know how to invest successfuly? What are the most popular mistakes you can make and how can you avoid them? Here you can find more video recommendations on the topic of finance, investment & stocks.

Successful investing

Successful investing is a dream of many people. But unfortunately, it is not as easy as it seems. How can you start as a beginner in the investment industry? What do you have to consider and which mistakes should you try to avoid? What is worth investing in? And what does the term “investment” actually mean? We enlighten you!

• Video Tips: Successful Investing
• Book Recommendations: Successful Investing

Real Estate Investment

Earn money with real estate – this is a plan that some people have. What one or the other hopes for: to get extra money in old age. Thus, one gets not only the pension, but for example, even rental income. The idea behind this is that someone buys a property and then rents it out to earn money. In this article you will learn how much passive income you can expect, what different ways there are to invest in real estate and whether you can buy real estate at a young age – during your education. Furthermore, you will learn how you can invest in real estate without already having the big money.

• Video Tips: Real Estate Investment
• Book Recommendations: Real Estate Investment

Taxes real estate / home

Taxes on real estate/home ownership – what tips and tricks are there to consider? Our videos show you how you can best save on the taxes that apply to real estate and how you can best reconcile real estate transfer tax and income tax.

• Video Tips: Taxes Real Estate & Home Ownership
• Book Recommendations: Taxes Real Estate & Home Ownership

Sell property

You have invested in your own property or inherited a house and now want to sell it at a profit? But you don’t know exactly which factors, circumstances and rules to consider or which mistakes you should avoid at all costs? We have compiled the most exciting, helpful and informative videos for you to prepare you perfectly for your upcoming house sale!

• Video Tips: Sell real estate
• Book Recommendations: Selling real estate

Taxes & Investment Income

Capital gains – Some people may have heard the term before. However, there may also be people who can not yet do so much with the term. What that is exactly and what that has to do with taxes, you will learn here. Capital gains tax, tax return, dividends and interest in relation to taxes are also adressed. Also you get tips for the tax return and for more net income.

• Video Tips: Taxes & Capital Gains
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Advisor Wealth Accumulation XXL: Finance, Investment & Co.

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• More about his Fashion show agency
• Photos of the show Fashion Week Finals

We met him one day after the fashion show at the hotel to get the best tips & insights for you, for the first fashion show! How do you reach the right people, like influencers, buyers and press representatives?

The first fashion show & highlights

FIV: When did you organize your first fashion show?

I did my first fashion show relatively early, directly one year after the foundation of CM Models 2015, when I was a showroom event with 150 invited guests, customers, friends, media representatives. We didn’t do the show for a client but as a celebration for the one year anniversary of our agency. The location was really fantastic, right next to a park, on 2 floors, flooded with light, with DJ, runway, summer fashion and of course sufficient catering. That absolutely gave me a taste for it and since then I love to organize fashion shows. Even if the evening is always hectic and stressful, especially with over 300 guests, over 20 models, I love the job.

FIV: Your shows are also known for having relatively many influencers in the front row. Have you built your company from the first moment on in such a way that you have models, fashion agency and influencer under one roof?

Both are conditional. By working with very young people when it comes to modeling, we automatically come into contact with many who are present on YouTube or Instagram. Sometimes our models are even both, so we are all the happier when we have you on our shows. And when of course some friends want to come with us, we are even more happy. We founded our social media division one year later, precisely because of that. It was a great time, we were able to accompany great people like Jeremy Fragrance, who built up the world’s biggest perfume Youtuber on his own, or Fabian Arnold, who won the Sport Influencer Junior Award from Pamela Reif and Angelique Kerber, at our first Influencer Award. Back then with 30,000 fans, today with half a million instagram followers and resident in Los Angeles.

So the close connection to YouTube and Instagram World came by accident and we are very happy when young people make so much of themselves and use their talent! At fashion shows or at the Fashion Week you come together from all over the world. One was just in Los Angeles, the other in London and of course I was busy in the office!

Rafael Poschmann / East News Fashion Week Berlin Runway Show B.A.R.E.

Tips for designers?

FIV: With “The Model Book” you have written one of the most successful books for models, which is now even published in English. You’ve been working a lot in the fashion industry, not only practically but also theoretically with your book. You have thought a lot about this, what is your big tip for young designers?

Before we talk about fashion shows right now, you’ve asked a really good question, because no matter what, it’s always about hanging on!

Already knew 9 out of 10 companies fail in the first five years. As an entrepreneur you have to be aware of this, but also as a fashion designer. A golden rule is always to stick to it, every entrepreneur, every fashion designer has doubts or financial difficulties at the beginning, but that is quite normal. But the longer you are there, the better your contacts will be and the better you are connected, the more turnover you will generate. That’s why it’s so important to stay on the ball. Not only for half a year or for one year, but for three years, four years, five years. This results in a lot of things at some point all by itself!

A second important point I would add here is an important sentence from one of the greatest entrepreneurs there ever was, Mr Henry Ford. The automobile entrepreneur changed the world at that time through his production methods on the assembly line. He coined the phrase, for every dollar you invest in your product, you must have another one ready to make it known. As a young designer you have to know that you are not only allowed to sit on your creation and your collection, but you have to invest at least as much time to promote your collection. Be it events, social media marketing or targeted placement with buyers and wholesalers.

Rafael Poschmann / East News Fashion Week Berlin Runway Show B.A.R.E.

Organize and plan your fashion show – Top ToDos

FIV: What are the three most important points when you are planning your first fashion show?

Event-Location

Very important and essential is a good place for the fashion show. This must be confirmed very early, as there is a lot of orientation here. Be it the number of guests, the possibilities of the rooms for relocation, make-up and styling, but also the entire logistics before and after the show.

As a designer, you should always make sure that there are enough rooms available at the location, in the right position. After all, the models should not be seen half-dressed. Accordingly, there needs to be a room for the catwalk, the catwalk must be at least 10 meters long. In front of the catwalk there must be a stage or at least a curtain. Behind it you need space for clothes rails, models, fittings, make-up, planning and so on.

Outfits and collection

As a designer you should of course get your collection together on your own. However, there are often little things that young designers in particular do not pay attention to. And it’s not even details but things like shoes. Are there enough shoes in the end or are there shoes at all? Are there enough pants for the models? Do you have the right clothing sizes and shoe sizes? All these questions have to be answered in advance, because on the day of the fashion show a lot of personnel and capital is needed if things still have to be done. At shows with 25 models, the logistical effort of 25 pairs of shoes that fit perfectly is extremely complex. Therefore all collection parts and outfits must be considered in advance to the sizes of the models.

In the fashion industry, many people ask why all models look the same. Exactly here lies the reason that the more different the models are, the more parts have to be made individually. The more uniform the models from the model casting are, the easier it is for the designer.

Models and Selection

For the reasons mentioned above, it is therefore important to organize models at an early stage. Either through your own circle of friends, for young designers or through agencies for designers who already achieve significant turnover.

FIV: In addition to the big points, there are certainly also details that you have to think about, especially when you organize the first fashion show, do you come up with something from your practice that is often not taken into account during planning?

Personnel planning and fitting aids

The first point that comes to my mind about your question is personnel planning. Personnel is seldom included in the planning in the quantity in which it is necessary. This is not only about people who help with the entry or the distribution of seats, it is also about fitting help, of course, people who help with the moving. The better the organisation of the staff, from the entrance to the distribution of seats to the changing of models, the smoother the day or evening will be. The staff should therefore also receive a correspondingly precise briefing on the tasks they have on the day of the fashion show.

Outfits & Accessories: completeness and list

We had just discussed shoes and trousers, which of course have to fit and of course have to be organized in advance. And of course there are even more detailed accessories, from sunglasses to handbags. It is not only about having the right accessories but also brands that support your own brand. For example, if you have a Prada, Hermès or Dior handbag with you, it will automatically increase the value of your brand through image transfer.

Make-up and hair

Is a girlfriend enough to do makeup and hair? No! For a fashion show you need a lot of make-up artists who make sure that the style of your models is perfect. Accordingly, personnel for hair and make-up must also be planned and organized. Not only the staff, but also the lighting, make-up mirrors, equipment, tables and of course the sockets for smoothing irons.

Photographer: photo and video material

Also very important is your own fashion show photographer. After all, the fashion show is there to present your new collections to as large an audience as possible. So that not only you have pictures and video material from the fashion show, you should consider a photographer or videographer in advance, who captures the entire event. From the preparations in the backstage area to the guests and the outfits they wear. And of course the big fashion show and every single outfit on the catwalk at the end. The aftershow, of course it must also be recorded! You will not only use the photos for yourself but also send them the day after to the press and media representatives. This increases the chance that you will be published in the media. The more frequently your fashion brand is seen, the more presence you have in people’s minds.

Guest list Contact and seats

The higher the quality of the guest list and the more work it entails. Especially if you manage to get big bloggers, buyers, CEOs or even media representatives on your fashion show, you will have to work many days on the list. Because no mistakes can happen on the day of the fashion show. Every seat must be precisely planned and organised. Not only does every important person need a seat, you also need to set the order and seat distribution. Who sits in the front row, who sits in the middle, who sits at the beginning and end? Accordingly, you should start early with your guest list, especially if your contacts are already good.

Rafael Poschmann / East News Fashion Week Berlin Runway Show B.A.R.E.

Guest list: Influencers, Buyers and Press

FIV: That’s right, with your own fashion show you can reach many people as a fashion designer. Maybe we’ll stick to the subject for a moment. How to reach Influencer? What is the best way to contact them so that they can really look at themselves?

Two concrete tips would be, be brief with your cover letter, be concise and interesting and simply ask them directly via Instagram or via email if they are only on YouTube. The direct address, friendly and nice is usually the most effective way to convince a loose to come to your own event. The important thing is to be very brief. Yes, of course yoga gets a lot of requests every day. So don’t explain too much, why and why. Just say, this is my show, I would be very happy if you are there, here are the most important dates of the event. Then you just write the date, start time and of course the information that you would like to put him or her on the guest list with accompanying person.

Here is a little extra tip, of course you can also contact Influencer agencies, Social Media One and ask if artists and bloggers want to drop by. I would rather recommend the personal approach, because as a fashion designer you can also build up a long-term personal relationship. After all, you don’t want it to remain a fashion show, but ideally you present your fashion for every new season!

FIV: What can you recommend so that young fashion designers can reach important buyers or owners of boutiques or even fashion chains?

If you don’t have a name yet, you’ll have a hard time to get a nameable buyer or to decide on your own event. Nevertheless, the speech is worthwhile, because the more doors you knock on as a young entrepreneur, the more opportunities arise. Here the old principle applies, 90% work, 10% talent. If you invest time in getting important people, e.g. from big online shops, on your event, who could become potential customers, then this pays off if you manage to convince one or two per show.

But my recommendation is rather to use the time to get multipliers on your event. The bigger your own community becomes, the more interesting you become your brand or your name for buyers.

FIV: How can young designers convince the press and media?

Press is the biggest sticking point. Just like large influencers with over a million followers, media representatives are difficult to reach without a very good network. To get big fashion magazines on your event without a very good network, impossible. Therefore you should not focus your work on the top ten media, no matter if print magazine, TV or social media, use local media, they also search daily for good content for online and print. And through local press you can also reach local boutiques, potential customers for your fashion label.

That’s why you shouldn’t just focus your energy on big media houses, sometimes even waste it, think of smaller media, they also give you reach. From the regional newspaper to the fashion blog.

Models and castings

FIV: First the question: How much does a model actually cost for a fashion show?

The costs for a model cannot be quantified exactly, depending on whether it is a start-up fashion label or an established, international brand. However, the price is at least in the three-digit range. The investment pays off, which is why all established designers resort to model agencies. Here it is about uniform sizes, professional running but also about punctual appearance and guaranteed replacement in case of failure. Many advantages that fashion designers appreciate so that their own show is not endangered and all collection items are presented perfectly.

FIV: What would you recommend, friends or real models from an agency?

For young designers it is of course absolutely worthwhile to fall back on their own contact network. As just described, it becomes more and more important with the increasing degree of professionalism not to endanger the show. If, out of ten planned models, 3 are cancelled, the fashion designer is faced for the first time with the question: “Would it have been better to book with a model agency? The next aspect is the professionalism of the run and the experience. Anyone who has ever run for brands such as Dolce & Gabbana or Burberry, and of course for top German designers such as Dorothee Schumacher or Guido Maria Kretschmer, knows how to present fashion. The third aspect is uniformity. The more uniform the models are, the better the fashion show can be planned, the collection parts and the more uniform the look is. The more uniform the look, the less distracting from fashion.

FIV: How can you promote a casting so that many models come to the open casting for the fashion show?

There are several possibilities here.

If you happen to know something about social media marketing, I would recommend an advertisement or an advertised contribution. On Instagram a simple posting or video that promote by an advertisement with 100 € and only on your own city, e.g. Berlin or Hamburg. You set the age, e.g. 15 to 25 years and you have a great advertisement that reaches exactly the right people in the city, with the right age. How this works can be read in my new book, “The Social Book”

If you don’t know anything about it, I would recommend to display small flyers in boutiques. Boutique owners often like to help and so you reach an audience that is interested in fashion and tends to be younger. So, in theory, you don’t need anything but a copier and a smile. And of course don’t forget your Instagram account! Even if you only have 1,000 followers, use them! Because they too have friends and friends. So make daily small stories and also the one or other posting in the apron of the casting with a concrete call to participate in it!

FIV: Thank you so much for this interveiw Stephan!

• More about his Fashion show agency
• Photos of the show Fashion Week Finals

This is part of every fashion show

Basics for each catwalk

A basic fashion show means we keep everything simple! Just like most shows at Fashion Weeks like in Berlin, Paris or Milan. The focus is clearly on the fashion pieces of the new collection! All you need is a nice location, models and make-up artists as well as dressing aids, without much Tam Tam. Well choreographed (please never forget the choreography), with perfect flow, music and moderation. No show with lights, no LCD screens in front of the catwalk, no goodie bags for everyone. The perfect show.

High Fashion: LCD Screens, Goodie Bags and Light Shows

High Class can include LCD screens with animation or even light show. Depending on the location or selection, it could be 100,000 Dollar, for example if 500 guests (or 1,000 guests as here at Victoria’s Secret) are to receive Goodie Bags or if chairs have to be exclusive instead of just wood / plastic.

Calculation: That’s how much a fashion show costs

We did the math for you! This is what you need for your first fashion show, including technical details such as sound system and light setting.

Equipment for catwalk, music and light

The equipment differs depending on the fashion show. But music from a DJ or notebook is obligatory for every show. Who does not only plan for 50 guests, he needs the right watt number to reach all guests. Tip: Think of moderation.

Sound system for DJ and moderation

The prices are valid for the daily rent (24 hours).

• DJ desk, Notebook 71,40 Dollar
  Cable (power, audio)
• Millenium SP31 (monitor distributor) 16,00 Dollar
  Power amplifier 750W – AA VX-1500 39,00 Dollar
• Microphone – Shure 18,00 Dollar
• XL Audio Boxes (depending on location, min. 4x) – Fullrange 38,50 Dollar
  XL Audio Boxes – Subwoofer (min. 2x) 63,00 Dollar
  Spacer rod (min. 3x) 15,00 Dollar
  Cable Defender 6,50 Dollar
• HK projector (box tower) 299.00 Dollar
• GEMA (Germany) 240,00 Dollar

Other like power cables and audio cables

• Power cable OR Normal per meter 2.25 to 1,125.00 Dollar
  500m

sketch: Location, catwalk and construction

Platform elements for the catwalk

Catwalk – optional when ground is needed

• Walkwalk elements per m² – Basic 27,00 to 8.100,00 Dollar
  100m x 3m
• Print (back wall) / LCD wall with effect (colour play) 6.530,00 Dollar
• Video / Sound Design 730,00 Dollar
  Side elements or stage curtain

Guests and seating at the fashion show

• Seating for up to 500 guests 8.45 to 4,225.00 Dollar
• Goodie Bags Front-Row (200) at 4,000.00 Dollar

Other like fog machine

• Dollarlite ICE NB-150 Ground Fog Machine 89,00 Dollar
  Fog fluid 20,00 Dollar
  Ice 5,00 Dollar

Light installation and spotlights

If we have daylight, many points of the light structure are omitted. At evening events and light over the catwalk, the following costs come in approximately.

stage for models and singers

• structure of supporting element (depending on location)
• F33 cross beam per m 11.50 to 2,990.00 Dollar
  at 100m (40 H, 200 L, 20 Q)
• F33 T35 Traverse Connector (20) 23.00 to 460.00 Dollar
  F33 T36 Traverse Connector (14) 23.00 to 322.00 Dollar
  F33 C32 Traverse (4) 26,00 to 104,00 Dollar
• F33 Baseplate XL (10) 39,00 to 390,00 Dollar
  H30V Baseplate S (10) 19,00 for 190,00 Dollar
• Bptec connecting clamp (140) 1.75 for 245.00 Dollar
• Lightmaxx Platinum CLS 2 Tri LED 299.00 Dollar
  Showtec Phantom (min. 20) 39,00 for 780,00 Dollar
• light mixing console 105,00 Dollar

Location – Mounting for lighting system

• PAR 64 LED (min. 10) 21,00 to 210,00 Dollar
  Base plate (min. 10) 3.00 to 30.00 Dollar

Other

• adhesive tape
  Marking tape

Furniture and exclusive pieces

• standing table (20) 22,00 to 440,00 Dollar
• Personnel guidance system 29,00 to 290,00 Dollar

Event range – Input

• Press wall (logos) 790,00 Dollar
  Beamer or video wall – ZM5000 Full HD 249.00 Dollar
  Notebook for beamer 50,00 Dollar
  Cable for beamer
• Blocking systems (Entrance)
  Barrier tape
• Folding tent (rain cover) Premium 4x8m (2x) 199,00 to 398,00 Dollar
• standing table (8) 22,00 to 176,00 Dollar
• socket outlet (outdoor) with 1.4m (8) 2.50 to 20.00 Dollar
• Personnel guidance system 29,00 to 290,00 Dollar

event area – backstage

• Mirror tables for MUA

Personnel for the show: choreographer, models and make-up

• Choreographer / Organizer (1) 1.200,00 Dollar
• Model Selection – Live Casting ?
• Models (15) 500,00 for 7.500,00 Dollar
  Make-Up Artist (5) 300,00 for 1.500,00 Dollar
• Tightening aids (8) 80,00 for 640,00 Dollar

Security, lighting technician and construction / dismantling

• Gastronomy exclusive
• Sound technician (1) – optional 300,00 Dollar
  Light concept – optional 300,00 Dollar
  Assembly / disassembly aids (1) 140.00 Dollar
  DJ (1) costs 1.340,00 Dollar
  Singer for 1.300,00 Dollar
• Light designer – optional for light installation
  Assembly / disassembly aids (2) / Transporter 180.00 to 360.00 Dollar
• Security (6) 120,00 for 720,00 Dollar
  Door (4) 150,00 to 600,00 Dollar
• Assembly / disassembly (8) 40,00 to 320,00 Dollar
  Cleaning staff (3) 45.00 to 135.00 Dollar

PR / Influencer for public relations

• Headliner VIP + Influencer for PR and invitations
• Influencer Invitation
• VIP – By PR Agency / Client

Invitations and seating

• PR work / agency on site / press accreditation 4.000,00 Dollar
• Invitations Print and Design 700.00 Dollar

Content Creation for fashion magazine and social media

• Social Media Channel and Content 1.200,00 Dollar
• Video production backstage + show + drone 2.350,00 Dollar