Testimonials
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING...
“Deborah Weed is a rare professional - with creative talents that are undergirded with an understanding of community building and messaging. She understands the links between audiences and art, and how each is enhanced by the other. Choosing children and families as her audience - with Paisley and several other projects over the past few years - she’s identified confidence-building as one of the most needed spaces to be addressed and filled that space with materials that are both enriching and empowering. I saw The Luckiest Penny and was transformed by it. And now, I’ve seen the raw creative material for Paisley. You can’t help but to want to see more. And as a former school-based educator, if I close my eyes, I can imagine the joy little (and not so little) girls will bring into Paisley’s world. I’m just wondering about Paisley’s torch song at the end of her musical (because I know that must be coming too . . .). Paisley and her friends are colorful and they have attitude. I can’t wait to hear them talk and sing.”
Deborah Briggs, Vice President for Arts, Culture and Community, The Betsy - South Beach
“Deborah Weed, is about to inspire us with Paisley’s Last Quill. This story of a young porcupine's dream to be a fashion designer, is squashed at every turn by a fashion bully. The eye popping color and detail of each illustration is a delight to behold. Two “ gutsy gals" on a mission, both Deborah and her character Paisley, are all about self worth!”
Deborah Hutchison, Founder Gutsy Gals Inspire Me!, Entrepreneur, Filmmaker, Speaker, Author
“The Luckiest Penny book, musical and curriculum, makes self-worth FUN! It's the simplest way to encourage kids from 3-103, to know what they're worth. The production has rave reviews and continues to be a favorite of children and adults alike! Take a peek below ... be sure to listen to the songs.
Deborah Weed, artist, visionary storyteller and creative lyricist has brought the world an incredibly inspirational, uplifting and effectively educational story and musical, The Luckiest Penny. Deborah's delightful musical adaptation of her beautifully written book gives life, drama, comedy and unique personas to two 1943 rare copper pennies, who take us on a memorable, rollicking, hand slapping, singing and heartwarming journey of positive self-esteem. I, and my Occupational Therapy Assistant students, have had the awesome experience of working with Deborah to bring her musical to children and adults in the Hudson Valley region of New York.”
Flo Hannes, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, Chairperson, SUNY Orange Occupational Therapy Assistant Program
“Deborah is an amazing heart centered creative spirit. Someone who’s mission it is to make a difference in the lives of young girls. I love Paisley’s story and all of Deborah’s beautiful products she is sharing with the world. As an author of a book on Self Love, this is near and dear to my heart! I applaud Deborah for using her many gifts to uplift and inspire young girls to fulfill their dreams. I am proud to be a Paisley Ambassador, to hold Deborah’s extraordinary vision of bringing Light and Empowerment to girls of all ages.”
Cindy Paine, Author of Clear Connect Create: A Powerful Path to Self Love, Optimal Well-Being in The Face of Cancer, Personal Coach, Retreat Leader and Speaker
“Deborah’s illustrations are beyond words! They are captivating and stunning! They take you on a journey into a feel good fantasy land of fashion and beyond! Fashion is the mode in which Paisley’s story of self-worth is told, which is an easy topic to relate to. Fashion is relevant, pop-culture, creative and self expressive! A beautiful story in words and art!
Mary Canale Bruce, Owner, Envy of Palm Beach, Inc.
“In her beautifully illustrated book Paisley, Deborah Weed shares a powerful message of empowerment for females of all ages, especially young girls. For those who have given little parts of themselves away in life or hid their authentic beauty and self-expression from others, this book helps young girls understand that this never leads to a positive outcome. This book is a blessing to any female who reads it, encouraging them to stand in their own power and shine from within. No one should or can rob you of your True Self without your consent.”
Robin Duncan, Miracles for Living & AIWP
"I am privileged to be a part of the Self-worth Initiative created by Deborah Weed. Deborah is a great visionary and a Great talent. She is the most creative individual I know and has a commitment to change the world through Paisley’s message. Thank you Deb for being a light on my path and for providing this important message of self-worth to children."
Alexandra Scott, Business Strategist, Board Member, Healthegy, Inc., Angel Investor
“Deborah Weed is a creative artist designer and writer. She is working through her character Paisley and friends to help children develop self esteem, their own creativity and find their voices. I applaud her path!"
Wendy Unger Schapira, Membership Director and Cosmic Connector, Miami Beach Chamber and Founder of Wendy's Angels
“Deborah Weed has the unique ability of transforming the lives of those around her! She is warm, compassionate, and possesses the unique ability to connect with others in such a way that all psychological and emotional barriers are cleared from ones path. Among her many gifts: creativity, intelligence, innocence and wisdom, and a level of empathic atunement that makes one feel fully embraced by her love and presence. I am so fortunate to know her, and am thrilled to know she will have the opportunity to further express these gifts and continue to inspire others.”
Peggy Mustelier, PsyD, Clinical Psychologist
“I am so thrilled to call Deborah a friend. We met by chance and became fast friends. I was going through a rough patch in life and Deborah became like my earth angel... picked perfectly for me by God. Her ability to help me sort through some very tough stuff happened because she was a safe place for me to share my secrets. She's clearly here to be a light to the world. Her words were always timely and sprinkled with love. If you ever get to know Deborah as I have, you will experience the highest form of wisdom, compassion, honesty and love from one incredible being and one phenomenal soul.”
Elizabeth M. Adams, Founder, Women Who Matter
“One of the most prolific events of Ability Explosion was the exuberant performance of The Luckiest Penny by Deborah Weed. The story which examines individual self worth affects the sensibilities of everyone who can see and hear it.”
David New, Ability Explosion President & Founder
“The Luckiest Penny gives us all an opportunity to look at what we value about ourselves and others. It is an engaging story that encourages the conversation of self-worth and love.”
Laura Duksta, Author, New York Times Bestseller, I Love You More
“Here's a story that shares why we need to jump into life - Live Fabulous NOW!”
Sandy Grason, Int'l Speaker, Author & Founder of the JOURNALUTION: Journaling to Awaken Your Inner Voice, Heal Your Life and Manifest Your Dreams
“Deborah Weed is the poster woman for an individual who is one hundred percent non-judgmental and a conduit to helping others realize their creative potential. She enthusiastically shares her boundless and contagious creative talents that become a catalyst for others, enabling them to see beyond their own horizons. Deborah is gifted with creativity and an energy that passes selflessly to those blessed enough to have an interaction with her. I feel truly fortunate to have met and experienced Deborah.”
Tracey Ohara, Loving Life Yoga
“I have been honored to work with Deborah Weed. Seldom in my life have I met a more inspiring and talented woman. I have seen her captivate an audience and I have been witness to her amazing creativity. Her resume includes working with Disney and Universal consultants and that says it all. She writes screenplays, children's books and plays, paints, writes music and is a motivational speaker. Looking to grow and change. Deborah can help you take that step.”
Ellen Brazer, Award winning author of Clouds Across the Sun and And So It Was Written
“I love you and Paisley is so much a part of my everyday! She is my smile!”
Wendy Unger, Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce: Leader, Membership Relations; Liaison, Education Council Liaison; Miami Beach Chamber - City of Miami Beach Health Care Task Force Liaison; Women's Business Roundtable
“There are not enough accolades to explain Debbie Weed. She is a most unusual person; I doubt you will find anyone like her. Her magnetic personality draws you right in and conversation could go on forever. Always enthusiastic about other peoples lives and interests. She taps in to the best of you.”
Mollie Prager
“I feel lucky and grateful to have met Deborah. She has been there for me, listened, and shared her insights with love and honesty. Countless times speaking with Deborah has helped me see things differently and my life has been better because of that. Deborah uses her tools, knowledge, and sensitivity to help people get in touch with their true selves, gain confidence, and therefore be happier. Thank you Deborah for sharing your knowledge and your teachings with me, you are a kind and caring person.”
Mariza Brussolo, Laughter Yoga
“It was such a pleasure to have met you. You are such a sweet person. I had been looking so forward to the performance of The Luckiest Penny! I was also happy to be able to share it with my children and my husband. We had read the book prior to the performance and we were so happy to see it done live. The kids were even singing the song PEHEW! PEHEW! Whatta ya gonna do? On Monday after the show. I love the message of The Luckiest Penny and think that having it done live is a wonderful way to relay that message.”
Shauna Smith
“It was a joy hearing the words and music of The Luckiest Penny come to life at the New York Occupational Therapy Association Conference. The dialog between the two pennies was impeccable, and I did indeed have tears in my eyes by the end. The story line can speak to, and is inspiring for all ages. Now is a wonderful time to spread the joy of this play.”
Melissa M. Caputo
“I took my two daughters to see The Luckiest Penny musical, and they both enjoyed it immensely. The story taught them that it is okay to be different, and that being different is not necessarily a bad thing. My younger daughter stutters and sometimes she is teased at school. This story has made her open up about the self-esteem issues she has been experiencing. Once again, thank you for this experience.”
Patsy Doris
“After seeing The Luckiest Penny, I realized how simple , yet, how creative it was. Both the story and musical hold such a strong moral concept that should be instilled in all of us.”
David Hering
“One word, INSPIRATIONAL! When I first met you, it felt like I had known you for a few years. You brought me in like I was your best friend. The Luckiest Penny taught me that self-worth comes from the inside, that the adventures that you take is what creates your self-worth. The play was just as inspirational as you. I believe that this play needs to be shown everywhere possible, to every one of all backgrounds and ages. Everyone is worth something, and everyone is capable of believing that they are indeed a lucky penny!”
Caitlin Cardone
“I have two boys, one 22 and one 19 and although they are brothers, they are nothing alike. The older one likes to "experience life rather than "live" it like the younger one does. As the oldest child myself, I can totally relate to my older son, and of course, as a mother, I have wanted to make his journey a little bit smoother. He has chosen the rockier route! Lately, I have wanted to communicate to him, in a non-threatening way, how much I love and appreciate him, and let him know how special I think he is. During the book signing, I could feel all the love and compassion you have for life and others, and I could feel all the love well up in me that I have for my son. Hence, the inability to speak, the tears... so, thanks for sharing that moment with me and thank you for the beautiful message you wrote to my son.”
L. E.
“Seeing the play, The Luckiest Penny musical, made me feel warm inside. I was touched by Henry, who knew who he was and what he was "worth." What a positive message that was sent about the power of unconditional love. As a penny, he was so valued for his true self. I had tears in my eyes when Henry was embraced by someone who saw his inner beauty.”
Bari Goroway
“Thank you for writing such a heartfelt book and for helping turn it into an amazing musical for all to enjoy. I purchased a copy of your book for my niece and nephew and they love it. It was such a joy watching all the smiles on the faces of the audience and singing the songs from the plat all week long. I would love to help out on a campaign keeping the penny in circulation throughout our country.”
Julie Chevola