South Bay Business Mavericks https://www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com/ a celebration of local business leaders Sun, 23 Apr 2017 20:05:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/cropped-icon-32x32.png South Bay Business Mavericks https://www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com/ 32 32 2016 Grant Winners https://www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com/2016-grant-winners/ Mon, 31 Oct 2016 19:37:48 +0000 http://9d33c1c2a7.nxcli.io/?p=4216 Winners of the 2016 ShopLocal.us Small Business Grants were announced at the South Bay Business Mavericks event on October 19, 2016 in Torrance, California. Awarded to small independently-owned businesses based in the South Bay, the grant program helps provide a financial boost to those who are looking to grow their business, are actively involved in their […]

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ShopLocal.us Founder, Heidi Butzine (left) with 2016 grant winners

Winners of the 2016 ShopLocal.us Small Business Grants were announced at the South Bay Business Mavericks event on October 19, 2016 in Torrance, California.

Awarded to small independently-owned businesses based in the South Bay, the grant program helps provide a financial boost to those who are looking to grow their business, are actively involved in their community or are leading collaborative efforts to give back. Businesses must have built their own businesses or brands (not part of a network marketing or franchise operation) and must submit applications for consideration by a panel of judges.

The 2016 winners included a range of business owners who have started their own businesses or brands in a variety of areas including a local sea-inspired handmade beauty product line, a yoga program designed to empower young women, and an 11-year professional bookkeeping business serving the small business community.

Learn more about the winners below…

 

Affordable Bookkeeping & Payroll owner Candy Messer (left)

Affordable Bookkeeping & Payroll

You could say the signs were all around AB&P owner, Candy Messer, even though she never planned to be a business owner. From the time she became treasurer for Junior Achievement at age 16 to practically being begged to help someone with their business bookkeeping, she was encouraged to take the leap and start her business.

Milestones:
Going from a home-based business to opening an office, Candy celebrated the business’ 11-year anniversary. She was spotlighted as an Expert on the Cutting Edge in Forbes Magazine, and named Small Business of the Year by the Torrance Chamber, and recognized as “A firm of the future” by Intuit (makers of QuickBooks).

Plans for growth:
Knowing your expenses upfront as a business owner is important. Candy is on a mission to continue to be able to offer affordable bookkeeping services at fixed rates rather than racking up hourly fees to help even more overwhelmed business owners save money and keep them out of the accounting weeds.

 

Soap Seas owner Christina Wennstrom (right)

Soap Seas

Born and raised in the South Bay, Soap Seas owner Christina Wennstrom has combined her passions to build a business, with inspiration from the Sea creating all-natural handmade beauty products.

Milestones:
Starting her business just 2 years ago, Christina is not sitting back waiting for business. She’s jumped into her community full force and within her first year, has hustled to get her products featured in The Portofino Hotel and through her active involvement in the community is collaborating with SEA Lab and other local charities.

Plans for growth:
Christina has a mission to build up her brand locally and gain the resources needed to produce more inventory to keep up with demand.

 

Steele Yoga owner Lori Steele (left)

Steele Yoga

Like many entrepreneurs, business owner, Lori Steele, has a diverse background having left corporate and the entertainment industry behind to start her own yoga practice. She’s done a lot…Rodeo barrel racer, raising sheep and pigs, pharma executive, and soap opera and band gigs.

Milestones:
Lori has partnered with United Nations Women and USC Panhellinic to create self-esteem events through the practice of an upbeat electrified yoga workout “electroga”. She’s been featured on many local and national television shows, news media and a contributor to El Segundo TV’s “Healthy Habits” segment.

Plans for growth:
With a love for helping others, she is growing her yoga programs to help girls transitioning into middle school with a conscious knowledge of their value and worth, to build confidence through accomplishment.

Congratulations to all of the 2016 grant winners.  We honor the spirit of entrepreneurship … courage, creativity, discipline, and sound business acumen – and the big ideas it often takes to be a small business owner.  Additional information about the Grant Program and South Bay Business Mavericks program can be found at SouthBayBusinessMavericks.com.

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Building a Restaurant Empire: Jed Sanford https://www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com/building-restaurant-empire/ Mon, 10 Oct 2016 22:15:38 +0000 http://9d33c1c2a7.nxcli.io/?p=3880 Innovation is an instrument of entrepreneurship and one that Jed Sanford applies in all of his collaborations to create unique dining concepts and hospitality experiences. Launching numerous popular restaurants throughout the Beach Cities, Culver City and Downtown LA, Jed has harnessed his business knowledge and enthusiasm to build a successful restaurant empire. We look forward […]

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Innovation is an instrument of entrepreneurship and one that Jed Sanford applies in all of his collaborations to create unique dining concepts and hospitality experiences. Launching numerous popular restaurants throughout the Beach Cities, Culver City and Downtown LA, Jed has harnessed his business knowledge and enthusiasm to build a successful restaurant empire. We look forward to learning from Jed’s experience and tips for success at this year’s South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards.

Look Who’s Speaking at South Bay Business Mavericks 2016:
Jed Sanford

Business:

Owner, Blackhouse Hospitality

Jed Sanford’s acumen for analyzing businesses’ growth opportunities combined with a passion for art serves as the foundation for his vibrantly successful restaurant empire, Blackhouse Hospitality. “With Blackhouse, I apply my natural, creative strengths in a way that’s focused and organized,” he explains. “By finding equally passionate chefs and team members, we can create innovative dining concepts that have a synergy of style and success.”

Although he loved art and sports as a child, Jed initially trained as a CPA at Coopers and Lybrand. As a PwC Scholar pursuing his MBA at USC, Jed studied management consulting and later worked in the management consulting division at PriceWaterhouse Coopers. After a few years of working closely with small to mid-size companies, he decided to form Blackhouse to pursue projects in which he had more interest. “Everyone involved with Blackhouse is hungry to grow,” he says. “We value passion and an excellent quality of life.”

Under Jed’s guidance, Blackhouse Hospitality chooses projects based not only on the enthusiasm of those involved, but the unique quality of each new concept.

Why we believe Jed is a Maverick:

Creating an empire takes grit and can push the boundaries of what you think is possible. Jed has applied this not only in the expansion of his businesses, but pushing the boundaries is also part of the fun for customers who like to experiment with good quality food and drinks at his restaurants.

Blackhouse Hospitality now operates Wildcraft in Culver City, Abigaile, The Brewery at Abigaile, Día de Campo and in Hermosa Beach, and two Little Sister restaurants in Manhattan Beach and Downtown Los Angeles. Both Abigaile and Little Sister owe much of their appeal to their original approach toward presentation and the storied histories of their venues. Abigaile is housed in a former rehearsal space for the legendary punk rock band Black Flag, while Little Sister’s seating is limited to 50 to create an intimate atmosphere that harkens back to late 19th-century Southeast Asia. Pulitzer Prize winner Jonathan Gold, among other renowned food critics, has praised Little Sister’s alluring ambiance and inspired menu by co-founder Chef Tin Vuong. Not content to bask in praise, Jed is poised to add at least two more restaurants to Blackhouse’s roster in 2016. In addition to the Blackhouse group of restaurants, he is also a co-founder and owner of the nightlife destinations Ocean Bar and Saint Rocke in Hermosa Beach.

Inspiration & Community:
Jed and his team have brought some of the most creative and delicious culinary experiences to the Beach Cities, including Redondo Beach where Jed grew up, and Blackhouse Hospitality is well on its way to bringing their dining concepts to the Greater LA area and beyond. When he’s not creating award-winning hospitality experiences, Jed exercises at the CrossFit gym that he owns. He also enjoys being a “big family man,” spending time with his wife and three children.

We’re very honored to have Jed Sanford join us as a panelist at the 2016 South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards on October 19th. You don’t want to miss it!

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Giving Mavericks A Visual Voice: Stefanie Dacy https://www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com/giving-mavericks-visual-voice/ Mon, 03 Oct 2016 22:12:42 +0000 http://9d33c1c2a7.nxcli.io/?p=3879 Helping businesses find their “Vibrant Visual Voice” is the specialty of Stefanie Dacy and her team at 3V Signs & Graphics. Just drive around the South Bay or go to many of the local business events and you’ve probably seen their work. Since starting in 2010, at a time when the economy was still coming […]

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Helping businesses find their “Vibrant Visual Voice” is the specialty of Stefanie Dacy and her team at 3V Signs & Graphics. Just drive around the South Bay or go to many of the local business events and you’ve probably seen their work. Since starting in 2010, at a time when the economy was still coming back, Stefanie and her husband Pat decided to open a brick-and-mortar sign business. Six years later, they continue to serve the business community. We look forward to learning about the journey and lessons learned from Stefanie at this year’s South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards.

Look Who’s Speaking at South Bay Business Mavericks 2016:
Stefanie Dacy

Business:
Co-owner, 3V Signs & Graphics

Stefanie Dacy is the happy owner (along with her husband Pat) of 3V Signs & Graphics, the best sign shop in Hermosa Beach. 3V has been providing South Bay businesses and groups with a Vibrant Visual Voice through high-quality signage since 2010.

Working with businesses of all sizes, local organizations and business groups as well as non-profits, Stefanie and her team at 3V have played a key part in the success of many notable local businesses and events throughout the South Bay community. Whether it’s a new business just opening their doors needing to get noticed to a business needing a makeover to attract more customers, Stefanie works as a partner with her customers to create the best solutions.

Prior to starting 3V, Stefanie led a successful career as a Human Resources professional working with a major IT company and global manufacturing giant, Ingersoll Rand.

Why we believe Stefanie is a Maverick:
In 2010, after moving across the country to come back to California for job promotions, Stefanie and Pat took a leap and eventually started their own brick-and-mortar business in the sign industry which constantly faces the challenges of local and online competition. Six years later, 3V is still going strong and has now served hundreds of clients in the local community. Together, they have steadily grown the business, expanded their services and team (which includes their adorable dog Coco), and were even able to acquire a former competitor.

Inspiration & Community:
Stefanie is an active member of the South Bay business community, local Chambers of Commerce and the South Bay Business Women’s Association. She serves on the South Bay Women’s Conference committee which provides scholarships to support the efforts of those bettering themselves through education.

We’re very honored to have Stefanie Dacy join us as a panelist at the 2016 South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards on October 19th. You don’t want to miss it!

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Business Maverick: Laurie Latham Brandt https://www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com/business-maverick-laurie-latham-brandt/ Thu, 29 Sep 2016 14:40:58 +0000 http://9d33c1c2a7.nxcli.io/?p=3874 Over 15 years ago, Laurie Latham Brandt and her husband Bob had the vision of boosting the economic future of Old Torrance, and opened the Red Car Brewery & Restaurant. They’ve pursued their dream together of bringing good food and great beer to the community and have been actively involved and giving back to the […]

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Over 15 years ago, Laurie Latham Brandt and her husband Bob had the vision of boosting the economic future of Old Torrance, and opened the Red Car Brewery & Restaurant. They’ve pursued their dream together of bringing good food and great beer to the community and have been actively involved and giving back to the South Bay ever since. Laurie will share more about her journey and the story (and history) of Red Car Brewery at this year’s South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards.

laurie-latham-brandt

Look Who’s Speaking at South Bay Business Mavericks 2016:
Laurie Latham Brandt

Business:
Co-owner, Red Car Brewery & Restaurant

Laurie Latham Brandt is co-owner of the Red Car Brewery & Restaurant. She and her husband Bob purchased a historic building in Old Torrance in 1999, and with redevelopment incentives from the City of Torrance, opened the doors of Red Car Brewery in 2000.

Since the day Red Car opened for business, Laurie has been guided by the desire to create a warm, friendly and unpretentious place for the community to feel at home.  She’s also made it a point to actively involve herself and her business to make the community stronger through charitable giving and volunteerism.

Laurie’s Southern Indiana roots continue to shape her upscale casual menu at Red Car.  Pizza dough and sandwich flatbread is made fresh daily.  Dressings and sauces are made from scratch.  Frozen items purchased only when they can’t be sourced any other way.

Laurie, like all working moms juggles a demanding schedule filled with raising two children, William, a freshman at South High School and her daughter, Paige, now a junior at Colorado State.

Why we believe Laurie is a Maverick:
At a time when others may have avoided starting a business in the Old Town Historic area of Torrance, Laurie and Bob jumped in to help build up their community and followed their dream to open a restaurant. As economic pioneers in an area of Torrance which now boasts close to ten breweries, they helped pave the way and continue to be active stewards of their community.

Being in the restaurant business is filled with numerous challenges — but a business maverick like Laurie continues to seamlessly balance her commitment to her customers and the community, all while honoring South Bay history. Having taken the leap (and risk) to create a long-standing restaurant and brewery, nearly 16 years ago, gives others powerful inspiration and re-ignites that spark of entrepreneurship to keep on going for it!  Laurie’s courage and commitment are some of the qualities that we believe define a business maverick.

Inspiration & Community:
Laurie is a member of the Executive Board for the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce and has served as the membership chair for the past 3 years and will soon become Chairwoman 2017-2018. She is an active member of the PTA and received the Honorary Service Award in 2010.  Laurie’s civic involvement culminated in both she and her husband being selected as Citizens of the Year 2014 and her business was recognized by the Torrance Chamber during its Centennial celebration as one of the top 75 influential businesses in the city’s history.

We’re very honored to have Laurie Latham Brandt join us as a panelist at the 2016 South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards on October 19th. You don’t want to miss it!

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Grant Winner Shares the Wealth with South Bay Kids https://www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com/grant-winner-sheri-fink-shares-wealth-south-bay-kids/ Tue, 20 Sep 2016 22:42:53 +0000 http://9d33c1c2a7.nxcli.io/?p=3861 FROM SMALL TOWN GIRL TO CREATIVE VISIONARY, SHOPLOCAL.US GRANT WINNER SHERI FINK SHARES THE WEALTH WITH SOUTH BAY KIDS She had big shoes to fill from an early age, “My mom was always a huge proponent of higher education and instilled in me that I would be the first person in my family to go […]

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FROM SMALL TOWN GIRL TO CREATIVE VISIONARY, SHOPLOCAL.US GRANT WINNER SHERI FINK SHARES THE WEALTH WITH SOUTH BAY KIDS

10.21.2015 Business Mavericks

She had big shoes to fill from an early age, “My mom was always a huge proponent of higher education and instilled in me that I would be the first person in my family to go to college,” said Sheri Fink, Inspirational Speaker, Award-Winning Author, and the Creator of “The Whimsical World of Sheri Fink” Inspirational Brand.

Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Visit SheriFink.com and you’ll see a photo of Sheri in her signature hair of bright and happy rainbow colors, something that her “Whimsical World” fans have come to expect and enjoy. But it wasn’t always that way…

Many entrepreneurs leave the cold corporate world with self-determination to run their own business, and that’s just what Ms. Fink did. “I wanted to pursue something that set my soul on fire. I couldn’t do that where I was before,” said Ms. Fink. At that time, she was a successful marketing executive grinding out a living in corporate America.

sheri-fink

It All Started with a Rose
The journey from a small rural town to college, earning both her undergraduate and graduate degrees, to corporate America, and finally inspiring children and adults around the world, all started with a rose.

“During a time of adversity, I had an epiphany and wrote down the story of ‘The Little Rose’,” said Ms. Fink. The Little Rose is a heartwarming story about embracing who you really are despite your current environment. Not sure exactly what to do with this inspiration at first, Ms. Fink thought, ‘Maybe it’s a children’s book.’”

Ultimately, she published “The Little Rose” which quickly hit #1 on Amazon’s best seller list and stayed there for 60 weeks. It was eventually adapted into a play and today Ms. Fink has written and published several more award-winning books and has created a line of complementary “whimsical” beauty products.

the_little_rose_by_sheri_fink_front_cover_large

Supporting Her Brand and the Community, It’s a Win-WON!
Ms. Fink is in the business of inspiring others to live their dreams through her book series and beauty products, and especially through her story. So it wasn’t a stretch when she had the idea of applying for the ShopLocal.us grant in order to donate her beloved book, “The Little Rose” and the full collection of all five of her children’s book titles, to the local community.

“If I could get the message [from the book] out to people at a young age, then it could inspire them to have infinite possibilities,” said Ms. Fink. This was the mantra that initially inspired her to publish the book, and it is the common thread through all of her creative endeavors.

“I thought, wouldn’t it be amazing to give the books away,” said Ms. Fink, “But I wasn’t in the position financially.”

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Giving Back
Ms. Fink was one of ShopLocal’s grant prize winners in 2015 and she gave her grant winnings back to kids in the community by donating her books.

Working with local librarians and Darcy Hastings, LA County Library Children’s Book Evaluator, she donated her inspirational books, totaling one-thousand dollars, to our South Bay Libraries.

You can now find, copies of Ms. Fink’s inspirational children’s books at the following libraries:

Gardena Mayme Dear Library
Hawthorne Library
Hermosa Beach Library
Lawndale Library
Manhattan Beach Library
Palos Verdes Library
Redondo Beach Library
Wiseburn Library (in Hawthorne)

“I’m so grateful to the ShopLocal.us judges for enabling me to gift these books to the children in our local community,” said Ms. Fink.

A Whimsical Brand, World-Wide
When asked about the future of the Sheri Fink brand, Ms. Fink replied, “I would love for ‘The Whimsical World of Sheri Fink’ to be a global lifestyle brand complete with entertainment, education, beauty, fashion, merchandise, toys, games, and more designed to inspire and delight kids of all ages while planting seeds of self-esteem worldwide. I want to make a massive positive difference in the world and I’m open to seeing how the magic unfolds.”

Watch The Whimsical World of Sheri Fink’s Grant Video submission from 2015

Why Apply for the ShopLocal.us Grant?
ShopLocal.us is part of a grassroots effort to inspire more people to buy from local businesses in neighborhoods across America to keep our communities healthy, wealthy, and vibrant. To help local businesses achieve greater visibility and profitability, ShopLocal.us certifies small locally-based and independent businesses.

ShopLocal.us is hosting its 4th Annual Small Indie Business Grant Awards program for businesses based in the South Bay. This year’s winners will be revealed at the South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards ceremony taking place on Wednesday, October 19th 2016 at the Toyota USA Automobile Museum. Based on last year’s success, they expect 150 attendees at the gala event, including local entrepreneurs, community leaders and small business owners.

When asked why do the grant awards? ShopLocal.us Founder, Heidi Butzine said, “The Grant Awards program is our way of giving back to the South Bay business community. We know it takes a lot to run your own business. It’s the courage, persistence and passion that drives the small business owners to get out there every day and serve our community. We’re proud to host the Small Indie Business Grant program to honor the tremendous contribution small businesses make to the national and local economy.”

To apply for the Shop Local Small Business Grant Awards please visit: http://www.shoplocal.us/grant/

For tickets or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities please visit: http://bizmavericks.wpengine.com

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It Takes a Maverick: Kyle Ransford https://www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com/takes-maverick-chefd-owner-kyle-ransford/ Mon, 12 Sep 2016 21:50:18 +0000 http://bizmavericks.wpengine.com/?p=3849 Imagine having a chef-cooked meal in your own home, delivered to your door, and you made it yourself! Once this may have been a dream, but Kyle Ransford, founder of Chef’d based in El Segundo, has made it a reality right here in the South Bay. Kyle will share more about his experience with start-ups […]

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Imagine having a chef-cooked meal in your own home, delivered to your door, and you made it yourself! Once this may have been a dream, but Kyle Ransford, founder of Chef’d based in El Segundo, has made it a reality right here in the South Bay. Kyle will share more about his experience with start-ups and the journey of launching Chef’d at this year’s South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards.

kyleransford

Look Who’s Speaking at South Bay Business Mavericks 2016:
Kyle Ransford

Business:
Founder and CEO, Chef’d

Kyle Ransford is the Founder and CEO of Chef’d. Since launching last year, Chef’d is widely regarded as having revolutionized the meal kit delivery business through the company’s level of choice, re-ordering flexibility, and cost savings. Additionally, there is the luxury that Chef’d offers customers as they shop for meals at any time without the hassle of membership or subscription fees. The company, which has partnered with established chefs, notable culinary personalities and trusted organizations, further sets itself apart through the ability to fulfill fresh ingredients direct to consumers on a national basis for major brands.

Kyle is a proven entrepreneur who has successfully started several businesses, including Cardinal Investments (a commercial, residential and resort real estate developer) and Bank of Manhattan (a community bank in Los Angeles, CA).

He has extensive investment banking experience having previously worked at Hoolihan Lokey and Halcyon Asset Management, LLC. Kyle has been on the other side of the transaction as well as having successfully raised more than $50M for his own startup companies.

Why we believe Kyle Ransford is a Maverick:
Raising millions of dollars to launch a start-up in the world of on-demand scratch-made food delivery services is no easy task — but a business maverick like Kyle may make it seem effortless. Having a strong investment banking background and start-up experience means Kyle has a unique set of skills and insight, plus that spark of entrepreneurship to launch a business from just an idea. This takes grit and courage which are some of the qualities that we believe define a business maverick.

Inspiration & Community:
The inspiration for Chef’d came to Kyle while flipping through a magazine one day and coming across a great recipe. Kyle wondered, “Why can’t I literally press a button and have this gourmet meal shipped to my door?” A year later, Chef’d was born and is credited with changing the meal kit landscape. Understanding the importance of healthy eating as an essential part of living well, Chef’d has taken steps to ensure that there are plenty of choices for their customers living with diabetes and customized options to suit the healthy lifestyle that many of us in the South Bay community are accustomed to living.

We’re very honored to have Kyle Ransford join us as a panelist at the 2016 South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards on October 19th. You don’t want to miss it!

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Samantha Bossu Uses Her Winnings to Drive Business https://www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com/year-later-top-grant-winner-samantha-bossu-uses-winnings-drive-business-new-heights-doubles-revenue-along-way/ Sat, 27 Aug 2016 23:19:32 +0000 http://bizmavericks.wpengine.com/?p=3812   A YEAR LATER: TOP GRANT WINNER, SAMANTHA BOSSU USES HER WINNINGS TO DRIVE BUSINESS TO NEW HEIGHTS AND DOUBLES REVENUE ALONG THE WAY Like many young adults, the last thing she wanted to do was work in the family business. “I was raised in the plant industry, but I shunned it,” says Samantha Bossu, […]

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10.21.2015 Business Mavericks

 

A YEAR LATER: TOP GRANT WINNER, SAMANTHA BOSSU USES HER WINNINGS TO DRIVE BUSINESS TO NEW HEIGHTS AND DOUBLES REVENUE ALONG THE WAY

Like many young adults, the last thing she wanted to do was work in the family business. “I was raised in the plant industry, but I shunned it,” says Samantha Bossu, owner and founder of South Bay’s premiere indoor plantscaping company, Decora.

She recalls spending time in her family’s large greenhouse on sick days watching her parents work. When she was older, she took a semester off from college to help with installations, plant preparation, and heavy lifting, “I did a lot of grunt work then.” Eventually though, Ms. Bossu left the plant business choosing a career in education.

The Apple Doesn’t Fall Far from the Family Tree
“Years later, when I was at a crossroads in my career, I fell back into [plant scaping], and fell in love with it,” said Ms. Bossu. During that time, she made the move to California from Connecticut and began working for a local plantscaping company. She was surprised however, by how much she enjoyed the business side of things, “During my time with the company, I took on a larger role helping with sales, marketing, and crunching numbers.” Said Ms. Bossu, “I liked the challenge of how to grow a company, the creative aspect, and as an entrepreneur, planning out your future and how you want your future to be.” Two years later, she decided to start her own plantscaping business.

Decora Plantscapes

Samantha is the little one in her mom’s arms

Reviving a Family Legacy
Ms. Bossu proved that she wasn’t afraid to get her hands dirty, and had the ability to work all sides of the business including the creative side and the financial side. All that was left was finding the right name.

“Decora is the original name of the company that my parents founded 30 years ago in Connecticut,” said Ms. Bossu. Mom and dad have since changed the name of their business to Atria Inc. and were happy to support their daughter in her new business and gave her permission to use the name along with lots of advice, “They’re our go-to and on-call advisors,” says Ms. Bossu.

The Challenge of Running a Plantscaping Business from the Back of a Prius
Managing consumer perceptions is the cornerstone of good branding and effective PR, and when you’re forced to deliver product from the back of a Prius or rent a U-Hall, it can give your customers the wrong impression. “We applied for the Shoplocal.us grant because we were stepping into a new direction, rebranding, and growing quickly. The grant was the perfect opportunity to help us buy a vehicle,” said Ms. Bossu.

Decora Plantscapes

Driving Revenues
“We got our van!” said Ms. Bossu.

Since launching Decora, Samantha has managed to double company revenue year over year. Winning the $2000 ShopLocal.us grant award has helped them to purchase the van of their dreams, “It’s made our business systems so much easier,” said Ms. Bossu, “It has also helped to take us to the next level, with the logo design on the van it has been great for marketing.” According to Ms. Bossu, the van allows current and potential customers to know that Decora is both professional and creative.

Too Legit to Quit!
Winning the grant had an even deeper impact on the company’s self-image, says Ms. Bossu, “[Winning] let us know that what we are doing is legit, that our business plan was not crazy. It was gratifying to know that the people on the panel also saw our potential and that they were confident that the ShopLocal.us grant money was going to good use.”

When asked about the ShopLocal.us grant, Ms. Bossu said, “To anyone who is thinking about applying, I want them to know that the process is super easy, and you never know what you can win. Just showcase your true self and have fun. Let the panel see what you are about and who you really are.”

Watch Decora’s Grant Video submission from 2015

Why Apply for the ShopLocal.us Grant?
ShopLocal.us is part of a grassroots effort to inspire more people to buy from local businesses in neighborhoods across America to keep our communities healthy, wealthy, and vibrant. To help local businesses achieve greater visibility and profitability, ShopLocal.us certifies small locally-based and independent businesses.

ShopLocal.us is hosting its 4th Annual Small Indie Business Grant Awards program for businesses based in the South Bay. This year’s winners will be revealed at the South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards ceremony taking place on Wednesday, October 19th 2016 at the Toyota USA Automobile Museum. Based on last year’s success, they expect 150 attendees at the gala event, including local entrepreneurs, community leaders and small business owners.

When asked why do the grant awards? ShopLocal.us Founder, Heidi Butzine said, “The Grant Awards program is our way of giving back to the South Bay business community. We know it takes a lot to run your own business. It’s the courage, persistence and passion that drives the small business owners to get out there every day and serve our community. We’re proud to host the Small Indie Business Grant program to honor the tremendous contribution small businesses make to the national and local economy.”

To apply for the Shop Local Small Business Grant Awards please visit: http://www.shoplocal.us/grant/

For tickets or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities please visit: http://bizmavericks.wpengine.com

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Grant Winner Gets More Visibility, A Boost in Sales https://www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com/grant-winner-gets-visibility-boost-sales-lots-love-south-bays-four-legged-friends/ Tue, 16 Aug 2016 22:00:42 +0000 http://bizmavericks.wpengine.com/?p=3772   GRANT WINNER GETS MORE VISIBILITY, A BOOST IN SALES, AND LOTS OF LOVE FROM THE SOUTH BAY’S FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS Bailey’s eyes were yellow and she wasn’t eating… she was very, very ill. Her owner, Jean Brusavich’s heart sank when vet after vet said Bailey was too sick and she should be put down. “I […]

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GRANT WINNER GETS MORE VISIBILITY, A BOOST IN SALES, AND LOTS OF LOVE FROM THE SOUTH BAY’S FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS

Bailey’s eyes were yellow and she wasn’t eating… she was very, very ill. Her owner, Jean Brusavich’s heart sank when vet after vet said Bailey was too sick and she should be put down. “I remember thinking, I can’t do that, she’s like my child,” said Ms. Brusavich.

Brusavich knew that Bailey had years of life left in her. Her perseverance paid off when she found a group of specialists who were able to perform the delicate surgery the Basenji-Shepard mix so desperately needed.

Bailey survived, but the recovery was long and Bailey’s hind legs began to atrophy. Finally, Jean found a pet rehab center in the San Fernando Valley that used swimming for rehabilitation.

The surgery combined with the rehab and a loving owner not only extended Bailey’s life for years, it greatly improved the quality of her life. Now, luckily for South Bay pet owners, they don’t have to look far to rehabilitate their dogs after surgery or improve the quality of life for their senior dogs; Jean Brasuvich has dedicated her life and her business to helping these dogs with her TranquilPet Animal Healing and Wellness business.

It’s a Dog-Eat-Dog World
You might think that starting a pet-wellness business in Southern California where there’s a yoga center on every corner would be easy, that customers would be lining up at your door, but as many new and seasoned entrepreneurs know, that is not usually the case. “I worked in a law firm for 25 years, and when I opened TranquilPet I didn’t know anything about running a business or marketing,” said Ms. Brusavich. During her time at the law firm, Ms. Brusavich had been taking classes on animal wellness. With the help of the local entrepreneurial center she opened TranquilPet, but even after years of running her business she still struggled with marketing.

10.21.2015 Business Mavericks

How $500 Won Her More Clients
Before winning the ShopLocal.us grant award, clients would trickle in every few months, now Ms. Brusavich has a steady stream of two to three new clients coming in every month.

How? By investing her winnings in marketing her business. Since last October, she has been able to hire a marketing consultant, has shortened her sales cycle, and expanded her customer base, “It used to be difficult to replace clients, but now I’m getting more clients because I had the money to join BNI [Business Networking International] and do other grassroots marketing,” said Ms. Brusavich.

Looking Towards the Future
Thanks to the grant from Shoplocal.us and her increasing customer base, Ms. Brusavich’s confidence has soared and as a result she is hoping to expand TranquilPet Animal Healing and Wellness, “I’m looking for an apprentice and I’d like to open the pool seven days a week,” said Brusavich.

Watch TranquilPET’s Grant Video submission from 2015

Why Apply for the ShopLocal.us Grant?
ShopLocal.us is part of a grassroots effort to inspire more people to buy from local businesses in neighborhoods across America to keep our communities healthy, wealthy, and vibrant. To help local businesses achieve greater visibility and profitability, ShopLocal.us certifies small locally-based and independent businesses.  When asked about ShopLocal.us and the grant, Ms. Brusavich replied, “I have been telling other small business owners that they should apply for the grant.”

ShopLocal.us is hosting its 4th Annual Small Indie Business Grant Awards program for businesses based in the South Bay. This year’s winners will be revealed at the South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards ceremony taking place on Wednesday, October 19th, 2016 at the Toyota USA Automobile Museum. Based on last year’s success, they expect 150 attendees at the gala event, including local entrepreneurs, community leaders and small business owners.

When asked why do the grant awards? ShopLocal.us Founder, Heidi Butzine said, “The Grant Awards program is our way of giving back to the South Bay business community. We know it takes a lot to run your own business. It’s the courage, persistence and passion that drives the small business owners to get out there every day and serve our community. We’re proud to host the Small Indie Business Grant program to honor the tremendous contribution small businesses make to the national and local economy.”

To apply for the Shop Local Small Business Grant Awards please visit: http://www.shoplocal.us/grant/

For tickets or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities please visit: http://bizmavericks.wpengine.com

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Every Maverick has a hero https://www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com/every-maverick-hero/ Thu, 11 Aug 2016 01:30:06 +0000 http://bizmavericks.wpengine.com/?p=3799 Being inspired by people who have taken their own powerful and sometimes painful life experiences and choose to help others is part of the story we’ll learn about Nick Arquette’s journey at this year’s South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards.                 Look Who’s Speaking at South […]

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Being inspired by people who have taken their own powerful and sometimes painful life experiences and choose to help others is part of the story we’ll learn about Nick Arquette’s journey at this year’s South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards.

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Look Who’s Speaking at South Bay Business Mavericks 2016:
Nick Arquette

Business:
Founder, Walk With Sally

Walk With Sally was founded by Nick Arquette in 2005, naming it for his mother who was diagnosed with breast cancer and after many years of treatment, died when Nick was sixteen.

Nick never forgot how challenging and isolating the years of his mother’s illness and loss had been for him as a child. Wanting to keep the legacy of his Mother alive while seeking to serve youth facing similar circumstances, Nick searched for mentoring opportunities in the community only to discover that no organization was filling this critical support gap. After careful research, he launched Walk With Sally and began mentoring a youth who had recently lost his mother to cancer. From that first successful friendship, Walk With Sally’s core Mentoring Program has expanded, having served hundreds of families throughout the South Bay over the past 10+ years and today actively serving 63 children, boys and girls ages 7-17, with trained volunteer mentors throughout Los Angeles County.

Why we believe Nick Arquette is a Maverick:
Discovering a need and taking action to create a solution where there is none requires vision and leadership. Nick’s dedication, fortitude and insight has built effective positive connections between local services, mentors and young people needing support. Navigating the powerful emotional impact of losing a parent to cancer, Walk With Sally has helped so many young people keep memories alive through mentorship and Nick’s vision, personal experience and positivity have made a big impact on our community.

Inspiration & Community:
As the only known organization providing this specific service within Los Angeles if not beyond, Walk With Sally has partnered with school districts, hospitals and health care providers, and local cancer and grief support organizations for referrals to the program and to facilitate access to additional services as needed for mentees and their families.

With all his work throughout the community, in 2011 Nick was awarded Citizen of the Year by MB Chamber Women in Business and was a finalist for the Daily Breeze Most Philanthropic in 2012.

Nick Arquette currently lives in Manhattan beach with his wife Megan and 2 children Charlotte and Delilah.

We’re very honored to have Nick Arquette join us as a panelist at the 2016 South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards on October 19th. You don’t want to miss it!

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2016 SOUTH BAY BUSINESS MAVERICKS LINEUP ANNOUNCED https://www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com/2016-south-bay-business-mavericks-lineup-announced/ Tue, 09 Aug 2016 23:00:58 +0000 http://bizmavericks.wpengine.com/?p=3792 ONE NIGHT, FIVE LOCAL BUSINESS LEADERS WITH THE POWER TO INSPIRE HUNDREDS   Redondo Beach, California (August 9, 2016) —– ShopLocal.us announced its lineup of panelists for the 2016 South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards. This annual event is a celebratory gala bringing together prominent local business leaders and influencers to celebrate and […]

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ONE NIGHT, FIVE LOCAL BUSINESS LEADERS WITH THE POWER TO INSPIRE HUNDREDS

2016southbay-bizmavericks

 

Redondo Beach, California (August 9, 2016) —– ShopLocal.us announced its lineup of panelists for the 2016 South Bay Business Mavericks Gala & Grant Awards. This annual event is a celebratory gala bringing together prominent local business leaders and influencers to celebrate and honor small businesses of the South Bay.

Hosted by ShopLocal.us, the Mavericks Gala features an intriguing and thoughtful Q&A panel discussion with iconic local business leaders, sharing powerful lessons that inspired them to launch and take risks to help them thrive in business.

Confirmed panelists include:

  • Nick Arquette, Founder, Walk With Sally
  • Laurie Latham Brandt, Co-Owner, Red Car Brewery
  • Stefanie Dacy, Co-Owner, 3V Signs & Graphics
  • Kyle Ransford, Founder & CEO, Chef’d
  • Jed Sanford, Owner, Blackhouse Hospitality

 

The Mavericks event was started in 2014 by ShopLocal.us founder, Heidi Butzine. “I see many of our attendees each year moved often emotionally by stories of persistence and passion from our mavericks, and they come away with a renewed focus, great connections and the drive to keep going,” said Butzine. “This year’s diverse panel has so much insight to share from the different viewpoints of a non-profit, hospitality and restaurant businesses, a startup in the meal kit delivery space and a “mom-and-pop” brick-and-mortar service businesses. We can learn a lot from the Business Mavericks who’ve been there and back, and love what they do.”

According to Butzine, the Mavericks theme represents what it takes to be in business: courage, creativity, discipline, sound business acumen – and the big ideas it often takes to be a business maverick. “All great businesses start from the same place – dedication and inspiration. Maybe we have a maverick deep inside and just need that little spark to ignite us. We created the South Bay Business Mavericks to be that spark of inspiration to launch and lead in business.”

The evening offers networking opportunities, local food and libations, culminating with the 4th Annual Small Business Grant Awards Ceremony where three locally-based small businesses in the South Bay will be presented with grant funds aimed at helping them grow or maintain their business. ShopLocal.us encourages all local business professionals and community leaders to register now to secure their spot at the South Bay Business Mavericks Gala. Media are welcome to attend by registering directly with the media contact listed above. For more information visit www.southbaybusinessmavericks.com.

About ShopLocal.us
ShopLocal.us is dedicated to building the economy by boosting the visibility and profitability of small independent businesses through advocacy and grassroots publicity. ShopLocal.us helps connect people and local independent businesses in the marketplace. Over the past three years, ShopLocal.us has given $10,000 total in grant awards and prizes to local businesses in the South Bay community. Winners received this money to help fund important business needs and support the sustainability and growth of their small business. Learn more at http://shoplocal.us/grant/ and http://bizmavericks.wpengine.com. For more information or to schedule an interview with Heidi Butzine, please contact Heidi directly at 310-308-0796 or heidi@shoplocal.us.

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