Faces: Business 2021 by Downtown Publications Inc.

FACES:BUSINESS LOCAL BUSINESS COMMUNITY PROFILES 2021

SPECIAL SECTION | DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE

INDEX This special advertorial section is designed to provide readers of Downtown Newsmagazine with added insight into the people behind the businesses serving residents of this area. With the exception of the photos on pages 4, 13 and 17, all photography is the work of Laurie Tennent of the Laurie Tennent Studio in Birmingham. Stories are the work of Hillary Anchill, Lisa Brody, Tracy Donohue, Kevin Elliott and Stacy Gittleman.

Page 3: Kathy Broock & Company | Kathy Broock Page 4: Kastler Construction Inc | Rick Kastler, Paul Kozicki Page 5: SHE | Sharon Eisenshtadt Page 6: Chief Financial Credit | Tom Dluzen, President & CEO Page 7: Optik Birmingham | Dr. Joseph Ales, OD Page 8: College Choice Counseling | Barbara Connolly, J.D. CEP Page 9: RLA Real Estate Group | Renee Lossia-Acho Page 10: Urban Wick Candle Bar | Marlene Mansour, Elise Mansour Page 11: Habatat Galleries | Aaron Schey, Corey Hampson Page 12: State Farm Insurance | Barbara Merten-Dubensky, CPCU Page 13: Meredith Colburn Real Estate | Meredith Colburn Page 14: The Hills Eye Care and Optical | Dr. Amy Crissman Head Page 15: Sterling Development Corporation | Marc Alexander, Todd Emerson Page 16: Stateside Deli | Spencer Soka Page 17: Lynn Baker & Deby Gannes Team | Lynn Baker, Deby Gannes Page 18: Valia Designs | Dana Vagnetti Page 19: KW Domain Birmingham | Erin Keating DeWald Page 20: New Standard | Howard Luckoff Page 21: Roma Sposa | Anna Castaldi Page 22: Restore Hyperwellness + Cryotherapy | Orangetheory Fitness | Scott Marcus Page 23: Investment Consulting Group | Chris DeWolfe Page 24: Area Rug Co. | Tina Smart

Downtown Newsmagazine | 124 W. Maple Road, Birmingham 48009 | 248.792.6464

FACES:BUSINESS

KATHY BROOCK & CO. Kathy Broock 275 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham | 248.318.4504 kathy@maxbroockhomes.com | www.kathybroock.com | Facebook: kathybroockrealtor | Instagram: kathybroockrealtor

athy Broock, Michigan's number one Realtor for 11 consecutive years, grew up in the business as a fourth generation Realtor. She understands and appreciates what it means to carry the Max Broock moniker. “I was raised by and learned the business from my dad, and he is a gentleman,” she said. “It is my responsibility to carry on these values and to teach them to my children.” Broock has surrounded herself with a team of five women, one a buyer/listing agent and four administrative team members, “where everyone wants the other to succeed. We genuinely respect the work of the other. All the women have gratitude. They love helping others. They're appreciative, and that comes out – amongst ourselves, and the way they handle a client. They are rock stars.”

Broock lists, and sells, homes, estates, farms – even hunting lodges – all over the state of Michigan. “I love it. It's fun to have the diversity in your portfolio. That's where the creativity comes in, doing something differently,” she said. “I don't want to be like everyone. Marketing is my passion!” In this hot real estate market, she noted there is a plethora of real estate agents, and while she values the competition, she misses the days of knowing all the other realtors in the Birmingham/Bloomfield market, and worries for some, there is an emphasis on transactions and less on relationships. For Broock, it's long term and about building foundations. “It's so important for the future of any business, for our industry and for our clients that we continue to hold ourselves to a higher standard.”

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FACES:BUSINESS

KASTLER CONSTRUCTION INC. Rick Kastler and Paul Kozicki 425 S. Main Street, Clawson, 48017 | 248.655.5580 www.kastlerconstruction.com | Facebook: kastlerconstruction | Instagram: kastlerconstruction

wenty-five years in business is quite an achievement and a reason for any business to celebrate. While the COVID-19 pandemic is postponing the party, Rick Kastler, president, and Paul Kozicki, vice president, of Kastler Construction, Inc., are definitely commemorating the achievement. Kastler’s primary focus is building custom homes, cohesive home additions, whole house renovations, gourmet kitchens, and luxurious bathrooms. Kastler Construction is beloved by their clients in metro Detroit, and their phones have been ringing off the hook during the pandemic, as many of their clients, some on their second, third and even fourth Kastler project, looked to Kastler and Kozicki to enhance their current living environment instead of moving from their cherished neighborhood. “We have clients who are looking to add first floor master suites, or people who are working from home all day and want to improve their kitchens, work spaces and living spaces,” Kastler said.

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They're also staying busy with new builds for clients who are looking for custom homes, not cookie-cutter planned communities. The team works to provide better floor plan layouts and with dedicated spaces such as large kitchens, home office space, mudrooms, wine cellars and expanded garages. They noted they have many requests for additions, and their goal is to keep the character of the home with the addition. “We want the addition to be as seamless as possible,” they explained. A new development, Gaslight Estates, featuring four custom homes in Saugatuck, Michigan, is an exciting adventure for the company, as they branch out to an area they love. “For us, it’s really about helping clients create a space they’ll enjoy for many years and working through the details to give them the finished product that they are expecting,” Kozicki said. Above: Rick Kastler, Paul Kozicki

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SHE Sharon Eisenshtadt 6400 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, 48301 | 248.385.5502 www.shestores.com | Facebook: SHEstores | Instagram: SHEstores

haron Eisenshtadt is the ultimate retail survivor. Even something like a worldwide pandemic wasn't going to get in her way – instead, she figured out how to rule it, becoming adept at social media and transforming her retail store, SHE, into an Instagram fashion show every single day. “Since last April, we've picked up thousands of more followers and sales from new clients, both locally and throughout the country, proving that Insta really works,” said Eisenshtadt. Thinking of new creative ways to promote is part of Sharon’s DNA. “I’ve always been a seller,” Eisenshtadt said of her early days running the personal shopping department at Marshall Fields, and then at Saks Fifth Avenue. For the past 13 years, Sharon has led the charge at SHE, one of metropolitan Detroit’s most fashionable designer clothing and accessories stores, which she opened with her husband Howard – her biggest fan. Howard praises Sharon for successfully pivoting into athletic wear and high-end loungewear at the beginning of COVID, while continuing to focus on core designers

such as Veronica Beard, Yigal Azroul, MISA, and L'Agence. In addition to featuring the latest fashion trends such as Rufflemania, Sharon has also added more accessories such as games, candles, books, fine jewelry and giftware to SHE’s product mix. As life embraces more events once again, Sharon is excited to return to philanthropic initiatives, beginning with co-chairing the JCC Larry Sills Golf Classic in September, with Howard's brother Steve. Another lemonade-from-lemons moment occurred when a Chanel collector contacted Sharon to sell part of her unique collection. Due to the continued popularity of featuring this collection, Sharon has created the SHELuxe division, which features gently-loved, high-end vintage pieces from various accredited sources. “You bring the item you want to see to our store and I can make a call to my clients in New York, California, New Jersey, Colorado – everywhere,” Sharon said. “We've learned the trade. It's true sustainability. The nice thing about gently loved items is you pass it on to someone who can gently love it.” DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 5

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CHIEF FINANCIAL CREDIT UNION Tom Dluzen, President & CEO 189 W. Merrill Street, Birmingham 48009 | 248.253.7900 www.chiefonline.com | www.linkedin.com/company/chief-financial-credit-union | Facebook: chieffinancialcu | Twitter: ChiefFinancial | Instagram: chieffinancialcu

hen Chief Financial Credit Union opened its doors in downtown Birmingham in 2020, they hadn’t planned on the tremendous need for financial assistance that was brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. But as a community resource serving metro Detroit since 1941, there was perhaps no better time. As opposed to a traditional bank, Tom Dluzen, Chief Financial’s president and CEO described that “We’re member-owned. Even the board is made up of volunteers within our membership,” as opposed to the paid board members banks have. A checking account with Chief Financial pays 5 percent APY up to $5,000, which is 125 times the national checking interest rate average. They also offer lower auto loan rates and refund ATM fees up to $25 a month. Their Visa credit card provides a percentage of profits to local charities, like Leader Dogs for the Blind and Rochester University.

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When the pandemic first hit, Chief Financial immediately delayed loan payments for three months before their members could ask. They helped many local businesses who had been turned away from their banks because they were considered “too small” to obtain the first two rounds of Paycheck Protection Loans. Those purchasing a car could complete all of their paperwork electronically in order to minimize the amount of time spent at a dealership. Most impressively? While their telephone call volume was increasing with questions about loan payments, unemployment and stimulus checks, Chief Financial ensured that 94 percent of calls were answered within the first 45 seconds. “When you’re concerned about your finances, you want to talk to a human being,” reflected Dluzen. “Our priority is to find out how we can meet each person where they’re at and help.”

FACES:BUSINESS

OPTIK BIRMINGHAM Dr. Joseph Ales, OD 247 W. Maple Road, Birmingham, 48009 | 248.646.6699 www.Optikbirmingham.com | Facebook: ShopOptik | Instagram: Shop_Optik

or a mix of top notch eye care and high fashion eyewear, one needs to look no further than downtown Birmingham’s OPTIK. The store boasts several collections of glasses designed in Europe that are scarcely found in the U.S., as well as the largest selection of original, unused vintage frames. Owner and optometrist Dr. Joseph Ales, OD, says that “very few people in the country offer a selection like that,” which includes frames made of vinyl, wood, buffalo horn, leather, and a variety of metals. He typically finds these frames through his travels across Europe; recently, he did a collaboration with a line from Budapest that uses vinyl records as the final layer of the glasses for the Motown Museum in honor of its 60th anniversary.

Of course, before picking out a pair of glasses comes the eye exam. “This is a retail environment, but I’ve got instrumentation that goes beyond a standard of care. I’ve invested in some of the latest instrumentation for diagnosing even though I’m in a boutique. Patients really appreciate that,” notes Ales. Something else customers are thankful for? “As a boutique optical, we take vision insurance. Most do not. It’s kind of a big deal. People get a luxury type frame using their insurance that saves hundreds of dollars, but they still have something unique and special.” It is Dr. Ales’ artistic sensibility and attention to patient care that has made OPTIK a Birmingham staple for nearly two decades.

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arbara Connolly and her team at College Choice Counseling are ready to take high school juniors and seniors on the path to applying to college – something that can be both exciting and stressful. After a career in law and working as an admissions reader at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business, Connolly founded CCC in 2002 as a private college admissions and educational consulting business. From providing subject and standardized test preparations to tailoring a college search, the Birmingham resident customizes a multifaceted approach to the college application process for each student’s unique qualities. This May, Connolly published her first book, College Admission Success: Getting Into College Under Any Circumstances, which is available on Amazon. She recently opened a new business, Tutors CCC, offering online and in person services. Also this May, Connolly was honored to perform a TEDx talk, which is available on YouTube. As she did during the pandemic, Connolly this summer will consult with groups of

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families over Zoom and work with rising seniors to get a head start on applications. “I have always been a believer in face-to-face private consultation,” said Connolly, who is the only Certified Educational Planner in Michigan. “But with the pandemic came a paradigm shift. Through video conferencing, we are able to reach out to a number of families at a nominal cost to give people flexibility on how they spend their college preparatory dollars.” Connolly stays up to the minute with changing trends in college admissions. She notes that although some colleges are waiving test requirements, rigorous coursework and involvement in activities still makes an application rise to the top of the heap. The staff at CCC have diverse professional backgrounds in law, education, counseling and business. “We enjoy working as a team,” said Connolly. “Our clients’ work not just with one tutor but several, depending on the needs of the student and the different strengths and areas of expertise of the tutor. We are a 360-degree consultancy.”

FACES:BUSINESS

RLA REAL ESTATE GROUP Renee Lossia-Acho 210 South Old Woodward Avenue, Suite 200, Birmingham | 248.590.0800 www.RLARealtors.com | Facebook: RLARealEstateGroup | Instagram: reneelossiaacho

irmingham resident Renee Lossia-Acho considers it “an unintended journey” that brought her to a successful career in real estate. After growing up exposed to accomplished architects, builders, and designers within her family, Lossia-Acho developed an interest and talent in these areas but worked as a teacher while raising her young family. Motivated by a personal life challenge, she entered the real estate industry and discovered her true passion. “I started out in real estate working with builders and my background ended up being an asset to both the builders and my clients. I was able to offer guidance through the design and selection process to better meet the wants and needs of homebuyers and help my clients better visualize the home's potential,” she explained. For the past ten years, Lossia-Acho has been recognized as a Top Producing Agent. Her success has led to the launch of her own company in downtown Birmingham, RLA Real Estate Group, which is part of KW Domain, the top luxury

real estate office in the area. She acknowledges that her team, which is comprised of all women, is the heart of her business. Lossia-Acho views her role as that of a consultant who guides clients through the home buying process to make thoughtful, intelligent decisions that are best for them, their families and finances and making the home buying or selling process a seamless and stress free experience. She also helps clients see past paint colors, walls and even emotions to visualize a home that fits their style and needs while also maintaining market resale value. “I take a consultative approach to my business and focus on relationships with our clients – over 90 percent of our business is from referrals. Even after the sale, my team and I will continue to provide insight, resources, and guidance to clients,” she said. “We don’t just sell homes, we build relationships, and pride ourselves on being a resource to our clients well after they receive the keys.” DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 9

FACES:BUSINESS

URBAN WICK CANDLE BAR Marlene and Elise Mansour 172 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham | 248.977.8432 www.urbanwickcandlebar.com | Facebook: urbanwickcandlebar | Twitter: UrbanWickMI | Instagram: urbanwickcandlebar

tarting a new business is challenging, but starting one during a pandemic is especially challenging. Undeterred and tapping their collective talents and enthusiasm, mother and daughter duo, Marlene and Elise Mansour, opened the doors to Urban Wick Candle Bar in downtown Birmingham last summer. “We had been making candles at home for family and gifts,” said Elise. “When I was finishing my master’s degree, we decided to start a business and work together.” They signed a lease at the end of February 2020 and opened in July, which gave them time to ensure their customers have a safe in-store experience with an air filtration system, sanitizing protocols and a 60-foot-long bar which makes distancing easy. Urban Wick Candle Bar offers its customers the unique opportunity to create their own custom scent combination from over ninety premium fragrance oils to use in candles, wax tarts, diffusers, room spray, lotion, soap or hand sanitizer. They use natural soy wax and organic cotton wicks for the cleanest burning candles possible.

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The candle making process takes about 30 to 45 minutes, followed by 90 to 120 minutes setting time depending on the size of the vessel. They encourage customers to shop or dine at nearby Birmingham businesses during the setting process, and will even deliver finished products to their customers at local restaurants. The Mansours are committed to exceptional customer care and often assist their customers with creative solutions for finding just the right gift, party favor or scent. According to Marlene, they can “scent weddings” with custom-scented favors or fragrance at the wedding itself. They have also built a wholesale business making scented products for other businesses. “We offer an experience to our customers. Whether it’s family, friends, date night, team building activity or celebration, we want people to come in, get comfortable then be able to pause their lives and enjoy each other,” explained Marlene. “We want to be the best part of someone’s day.” Above: Elise Mansour, Marlene Mansour

FACES:BUSINESS

HABATAT GALLERIES Aaron Schey and Corey Hampson 4400 Fernlee Avenue, Royal Oak, 48073 | 248.554.0590 Facebook: Habatat | Twitter: Habatatmi | Instagram: HabatatGalleries | YouTube: HabatatGalleries

elebrating 50 years, Royal Oak’s Habatat Gallery has set itself apart as the country’s oldest and largest gallery devoted to glass art. In fact, co-owner Aaron (Mr. Glass) Schey, says that the Midwest, and Michigan in particular, is “a mecca in the contemporary glass art world.” Museums like the Detroit Institute of Arts, The Henry Ford and the Muskegon Museum of Art all have glass collections, as well as the Toledo Museum of Art and the Fort Wayne Museum of Art. There’s a bevy of private art collectors in the area as well, with Habatat providing guidance for these glass art collections. While there are many artists working in Detroit and Dearborn, Habatat boasts an extensive roster of international artists, several of whom Mr. Glass says he’s never met in person. “When I first started,” he recalled, “there was an artist, Margit Toth, in Hungary who only communicated by fax.” That model has perhaps positioned the gallery well

over the past year, as virtual communications, and virtual art exhibitions, have become de rigueur. The gallery is currently open by appointment, with virtual art shows and programs. “There have been Zooms every single weekend since May last year,” noted Mr. Glass. “On YouTube, we visit artist studios, museums. We’ve seen clients more face to face than ever.” And once the shows debut online, they’re there in perpetuity. Their summer show, Glass49: Habatat Direct (www.glass49.com) features over 100 artists from 26 countries. Throughout 2021, Not Grandma’s Glass debuts a new artist each month whose artwork “is not yet in grandma's art collection.” While these online shows will help expose more people to the contemporary glass art world, there is still no substitute for viewing art in person. “There’s always something in the gallery to come see and be inspired by.” Above: Aaron Schey DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 11

FACES:BUSINESS

STATE FARM INSURANCE Barbara Merten-Dubensky, CPCU 800 N Old Woodward Avenue, Suite 200, Birmingham, 48009 | 248.647.4266 www.barbmd.com | Facebook: Barbara Merten-Duvensky-State Farm Agent | Twitter: MertenBarbara | Instagram: bmdubensky

arbara Merten-Dubensky is a one stop shop for all things insurance. While this includes auto, homeowners, life, commercial insurance etc… her services extend far beyond that, with financial licenses for mutual funds, annuities, mortgages and more. She and her team take a holistic approach to her client’s needs, as she sees insurance as just one piece of a larger financial puzzle. “It is important to have the appropriate amount of insurance to provide a solid foundation of which to build the rest of your financial portfolio on. Once that base is in place we can assist our clients with investment options for future needs such as emergency savings, retirement or a legacy.” As an independent State Farm agent, Merten-Dubensky is able to serve the local community by accessing national resources. And prior to opening her business in 2000, she spent 14 years on the claims side. This uniquely

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positioned her to help guide her clients to navigate insurance options specific to their needs. “As a claims adjuster, I spent much of my time interpreting insurance policies and estimating damages sustained due to natural disasters and accidental events to make sure our customers were taken care of and their claims were settled appropriately.” This unique experience gives her insight as to what calamities her clients can face, and shares those possibilities with them. “Many people may not know the extent as to what insurance protection they may need until they don’t have it,” an eventuality Merten-Dubensky aims to avoid. Whether by phone, email, or in person, she spends time getting to know her clients and what is important to them. This personal touch helps guide her in the types of insurance or financial services she recommends to her clients to best fit their needs.

FACES:business

MEREDITH COLBURN REAL ESTATE Meredith Colburn 442 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 48009 | 248.762.5319 www.meredithcolburn.com | Facebook: MeredithColburnRealEstate | Instagram: MeredithColburnRealEstate

he COVID-19 environment continues to place our homes at the center of our daily lives. “It’s more essential than ever to be happy and comfortable within your four walls,” shares Associate Broker Meredith Colburn. As we have spent the better part of the past year social distancing and doing our best to remain safe and healthy, Colburn notes that this, in large part, continues to fuel an extremely busy real estate market. “Those who spent a lot of time at home realized what they might be missing,” including home offices, gyms and ample spaces for relaxation. “That has prompted many local moves,” as well as those by young adults returning to the Detroit suburbs from places like Chicago and New York. “We also continue to have an influx of buyers transferring to our area for job opportunities.” Buyers and sellers have long turned to Colburn to help them navigate the process of both purchasing and marketing homes for sale. Colburn began her

real estate career 28 years ago, joining her mother and mentor, Nanci J. Rands, in the industry. Colburn’s current team – which includes Nanci – has grown into a collaboration of “incredibly capable, professional women who I trust completely to jump in and do an impeccable job when I am otherwise committed.” Part of the team’s success is having an unfaltering commitment to their client’s best outcome. Colburn serves as a mentor for “a new generation of Realtor,” which includes team member Jessica Weisman, who Colburn says “has taken my business model, my philosophy on how to work effectively, attention to every detail along with a platform of client service excellence, and become such a phenomenal extension and representation of my business.” The team is rounded out by Caroline Johnson, a Buyer's representative, and Katherine Schuerman who seamlessly handles their daily operations.

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THE HILLS EYE CARE AND OPTICAL Dr. Amy Crissman Head 31815 Southfield Road, Suite 12, Beverly Hills | 248.645.2220 www.TheHillsEyecare.com | Facebook: TheHillsEyecare | LinkedIn: The Hills Eyecare and Optical

hen Dr. Amy Crissman Head became the new owner of The Hills Eyecare and Optical in 2020, she was looking to improve upon an eye care practice that had been providing a high level of service to Beverly Hills and the surrounding areas for over 30 years. “I inherited a great legacy and highly skilled staff,” said Crissman Head, a Bloomfield Hills resident and optometrist with nearly 25 years of experience in Oakland County. “I was looking to make changes with patients in mind and be an active community partner.” The recent enhancements involved upgrading exam rooms and the addition of more advanced eyecare medical equipment, plus improved patient technology, including online patient portals, appointment scheduling and contact lenses ordering. According to Crissman Head, the hallmark of the practice had been the optical side but, since last fall, they have increased optometrist patient hours. She

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emphasized that while the practice has two optometrists, a person who already has a favorite eye care provider can bring in their prescription and take advantage of The Hills’ highly skilled board-certified opticians as well as the great variety of highquality, stylish frames they offer from designers such as John Varvatos, Tom Ford, Gucci and Lafont. “It’s important that we make our patients comfortable and at ease when they’re in our office. We offer a high tech, yet warm, welcoming, unrushed experience to patients of all ages,” she explained. “We take a consultative optometry approach which means we not only determine the patient’s correct prescription and diagnose any issues, but we look at their day-to-day lifestyle such as screen time, hobbies, activities, and goals which can affect how we can help them see better. “Two people can have the same prescription, but very different vision needs. We listen and take the time to find out.”

FACES:BUSINESS

STERLING DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Todd Emerson and Marc Alexander 2382 Franklin Road, Bloomfield Township, 48302 | 248.203.2036 www.sdc.build | Facebook: SterlingDevelopment

ince starting Sterling Development Corporation as an investor in 1996, Todd Emerson has taken a hands-on approach to custom building. He has now grown the Bloomfield Hills-based business into one of the most recognized and awarded luxury contractors in metro Detroit. “I decided to pursue building full time in 2002, and I began by developing homes on speculation which soon expanded into renovations and new construction for clients,” Emerson said. “As my business grew naturally through word of mouth, I made the decision to bring in a partner to oversee operations in 2014” – his partner and brother, Marc Alexander. “We have very complementary personalities which has proven to be very effective,” Emerson went on to say. With his degree in mechanical engineering, Marc worked in the auto industry for 27 years before joining Sterling in 2014. His extensive knowledge of project management and his personal experience with building homes has proven to be an invaluable asset as the company grew.

Today, Sterling has approximately 18 employees, including project administrators, superintendents, and a crew of finish carpenters. With a focus on new homes, additions and renovations throughout Oakland and Wayne counties, Sterling Development brings together over 200 years of construction, planning, architectural and interior design experience, earning multiple Detroit Home Design Awards over the past five consecutive years. “Marc and I stay active in all aspects of the business, including customer relations, marketing and regular site visits. This allows us to properly communicate our vision to our staff along with insuring quality expectations are met,” Emerson said. “We are also heavily involved in the planning process with the client, architect and interior designer.” Sterling has recently added a service department to handle all of the client’s maintenance needs to ensure customer satisfaction and ease of ownership beyond the warranty period. “Our goal is to always exceed our customer’s expectations from start, to finish and beyond.” Above: Marc Alexander, Todd Emerson DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 15

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s the food service industry struggles to meet challenges brought about by a global pandemic, restaurant owner Spencer Soka is doubling down on his business with the recent opening of Stateside Deli on the edge of Birmingham’s emerging Triangle District. “I’ve always known it’s a lot of work,” Soka said. “Deep down you have to love it. And I love it. That’s what is going to make your business.” It’s that love that keeps Soka working to offer customers the type of high quality meats, soups, sandwiches and other food you expect from your neighborhood delicatessen, but located at a full-service restaurant with catering options. From the signature corned beef sandwiches to overstuffed omelettes, Stateside Deli is a new staple in the Adams Square shopping center. Soka’s passion and work ethic stems from his teenage years when he worked at his father’s pizzeria. As he went on to work for other business owners and chefs, he learned how to run a kitchen and a business.

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“I realized that I like things done a certain way,” Soka said. “I had learned from the chefs I worked with and others, and that allowed me to start my own business.” Eager to work for himself, Soka started his own business in 2006 when he opened a cell phone store in an Okemos shopping center. When a neighboring ice cream parlor went out of business, Soka saw an opportunity to return to the restaurant business. When Soka and his wife moved to Oakland County in 2018, he expanded the deli concept with a second location, opening Stateside in June of 2020. With the closure of the longstanding Village Coney in the Adams Square shopping center, Soka hopes to fill a need in the neighborhood. “The restaurant was here for 17 years before the pandemic,” he said. “We would like to be here for another 17 years.”

FACES:business

LYNN BAKER & DEBY GANNES TEAM Lynn Baker, Deby Gannes 442 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham 48009 | 248.379.3003 www.LynnAndDeby.com | Facebook: lynnanddebyhallandhunter

he world of real estate has evolved exponentially since Lynn Baker and Deby Gannes first got their real estate licenses, in 1979 and 1984, respectively. While staying up-to-date professionally, the two also rely on timeless style and skills to help their clients. "We add the most important aspects they can't get off the computer," Lynn said "There must be a hands-on approach to pricing all properties," Deby added. "Zillow pricing has no effect because it neither has access to the most current information nor is it able to see the inside of the home with all its upgrades and special features. " It seems their client-first philosophy of always doing an in-person interview with the client and home visit before putting together a presentation has been very effective. The duo have worked together for decades, making them the top listing agents at Hall and Hunter for 21 years out of their 22-year partnership selling homes in Oakland, Macomb, Wayne and Livingston counties. Lynn reflects on the growth of their business saying that "adding sales and office

staff has been part of our natural expansion. Lucy Kollin speaks Mandarin and is a dynamic sales agent. Jean Sander multi-tasks between office manager, marketing director and closing coordinator. Donna Rousseau is our go-to in the field for buyer and seller public relations. Our expansion has kept us ahead of the curve and on top.” But Lynn and Deby are much more than just successful listing agents. Lynn said they agreed as they became successful they wanted to give back to the community, as both had volunteered with local charities prior to becoming partners. So, every year they choose local organizations to support, such as the Older Persons Commission (OPC) and Rochester Community Schools. They also regularly donate school items to underprivileged schools in Detroit. Since both have teaching backgrounds, helping schools hits close to home. It has also played a role in their real estate careers. "The philosophy that Deby and I have is that we teach people," Lynn said. "What we tell our team when we go out to do a listing or presentation is that we're here to educate." Above: (Left to right) Donna Rousseau, Deby Gannes, Lynn Baker, Lucy Kollin, Jean Sander DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 17

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VALIA DESIGN Dana Vagnetti 248.205.6690 www.valiadesign.com | Facebook: valiadesigns | Instagram: Valia_Designs

s owner and principal designer at Bloomfield Hills-based Valia Design, Dana Vagnetti takes on each project by creating unique solutions for each client’s personal needs and style. “It’s really about understanding my clients, their needs and desires for their space and then creating an overall vision that will drive each and every design decision to be made,” she said. “I’m not a repetitive designer I have one certain design plan and then deliver the same thing over and over again not caring who will use and enjoy the space. For me, every job is client-focused, so we are designing something specific to that client, whether there are functional needs or aesthetic needs and all of the above and my portfolio can attest to that.” The approach has earned the licensed, boutique interior design firm the “Best of Houzz” Service Award six times, as well as a reputation as one of the

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top design firms in Michigan, as recognized by LuxPad. Vagnetti earned her interior design degree from the International Academy of Design and Technology in Chicago, where she served as an instructor before moving back to Michigan. Vagnetti can take projects from start to finish with one point of contact, and established crews, if they choose. The full-service aspect, along with her licensure and vast construction knowledge, is just one of the aspects that sets Valia Design apart from other designers and contractors. “We take that really scary piece of having to finding a reliable and skilled contractor out of the already overwhelming the puzzle for our clients,” Vagnetti said. “When I moved back to Michigan, I realized that a lot of people who practice as interior designers aren’t licensed, so I think gives us a little edge in the Detroit market.”

FACES:BUSINESS

KW DOMAIN BIRMINGHAM Erin Keating DeWald 210 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Suite 200, Birmingham 48009, 248.259.3544 www.erinkdewald.com | Facebook: ekd.domain | Instagram: ekd.domain

rin Keating DeWald is a fourth generation offspring of local developers and top producing area realtors. Erin originally entered the corporate world after college but naturally kept coming back to houses, design and her love of working with people. "For me, it was a natural progression,” said DeWald, realtor and co-owner at KW Domain-Luxury Homes International in Birmingham. DeWald, who grew up in the Birmingham/Bloomfield Hills area, has helped people find their dream homes for about 20 years, and helped launch KW Domain-Luxury Homes International in 2016. She has worked across various price points and all across metro Detroit. DeWald said since the market is much smaller for luxury homes, one needs to really stay on top of what’s selling, who is buying, networking with the top

real estate professionals and creatively marketing those properties. “You have to be good at telling the story of your own personal properties to make sure they stand out,” she noted, mentioning that communication, market knowledge and persistence is a key to being successful. Clearly, whatever she is doing is working. DeWald said they are the leading real estate firm in downtown Birmingham, and she is now one of the top producing agents. DeWald hopes to become the number one office overall in downtown Birmingham, without losing the personal touches that make her, well, her. “My goal for my career and success is built on honesty, loyalty, integrity. An ethical agent...that people can trust. I’m going to guide and educate my clients to make the best real estate decision for their needs.”

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FACES:BUSINESS

NEW STANDARD Howard Luckoff 24906 John R Road, Hazel Park | 248.873.0420 www.anewstandard.com | Facebook: anewstandardmi | Twitter: anewstandardmi | Instagram: newstandardcannabis

ocated just minutes away from downtown Birmingham, guests of New Standard’s flagship Hazel Park location step into a welcoming space that appeals to the senses, much like walking into your favorite beanery or brewery. The retailer provides a curated consumer setting for purchasing cannabis, like none other. New Standard is the brainchild of metro Detroit co-founders, including CEO Howard Luckoff. Every aspect of New Standard is designed to reflect the company’s culture and desire to bring people of all lifestyles together to enjoy cannabis. “The end of the prohibition on cannabis opened up a whole new jumping off point for getting in on the ground floor of a new industry,” said Luckoff, who formerly served on the board of directors with Shinola. “Our budtenders walk each customer, ranging from the connoisseur to the curious novice, through our 275 different products,” said Luckoff. “We offer one-on-one consultations, educating customers on the products that will work best for their desired cannabis experience, whether that be for medical or recreational use. From an edible

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gummy to use as a sleep aid or an infused cream to alleviate chronic pain, our team is able to help you navigate your journey.” New Standard has additional stores in Sand Lake, Edmore, Nunica and Muskegon, with more locations opening soon in several communities, including Ann Arbor and Grand Haven. New Standard also produces several products at its two cultivation facilities in Michigan, with assurances that plant flowers and leaves are rigorously tested to be free of pesticides and other contaminants so the customer is assured they are buying the purest product. “Our unique and vast product collection is pivotal for a personalized and memorable cannabis journey,” said Luckoff. “We are a team of friendly professionals with a hunger for knowledge. We’re on a mission to open minds, whether you are new to the cannabis experience, or deeply embedded in the cannabis culture and looking for something new to try. Whatever your journey looks like, we got you.”

FACES:BUSINESS

ROMA SPOSA ATELIER Anna Castaldi 708 N. Old Woodard Avenue, Birmingham | 248.723.4300 www.romasposa.com or 25 years, Anna Castaldi has been dressing brides throughout southeastern Michigan and helped them look and feel beautiful on their special day. After their weddings, women return when they have big events for cocktail dresses and evening wear, and mothers of brides and grooms often enjoy custom-designed garments made-to-measure to reflect their personality, silhouette and body, using the most colorful silk fabrics coming from all over the world, highlighting the newest trends and timeless styles. “Every woman deserves to shine like a star when they walk in to a party or special occasion,” Castaldi said, who consults with each woman, giving them the best suggestions until she sees a reflection of themselves coming through. Castaldi recognizes women's individual attributes and accentuates them with gowns from designers like Ines Di Santo. Galia Lahav, Monique Lhuiller, Naeem Khan, Victor and Rolf, Zuhair Murad, Toni Ward, Romona Keveza, Inbal Dror and

many others. She features an exclusive evening collection designed only for Roma Sposa’s Atelier by Pnina Tornai. “I travel the world to bring in the most recent trends in order for my clients to be always dressed with the latest newest styles so they are going to be unique,” she said. Castaldi believes that being in love never goes out of style and invites her clients to believe in themselves and choose the best colors for their skin tone, respecting the choreography and location of where there are going to attend the event. Now celebrating the 25th anniversary of Roma Sposa, Castaldi and her nine dedicated staff members custom measure for each woman and deliver the finished dress. For them, it is a labor of love to make each bride, bridal attendant, mother of the bride and groom, glow for their wedding day, and then to return to be outfitted for special events throughout the years.

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FACES:BUSINESS

RESTORE HYPERWELLNESS + CRYOTHERAPY AND ORANGETHEORY FITNESS Scott Marcus 643 S. Adams Road, 633 S. Adams Road, Birmingham | 248.598.4975 | 248.712.4548 www.restore.com | www.orangetheoryfitness.com

cott Marcus, owner of the newly-opened Restore Hyperwellness + Cryotherapy, as well as many Orangetheory franchises throughout the state, sees a holistic approach to the concept of wellness. “What we talk about is lifespan and healthspan. Lifespan is how long you live, but healthspan is how long you live a healthy life.” While devotees of Orangetheory can attest to the intense group fitness classes the studios offer, it is what happens post-workout that fuels Marcus’ newest endeavor. With 10 different “modalities,” everyone from the “novice exerciser” to student athletes to marathon runners will benefit from a treatment. “Part of what Restore is is recovery, so recovery from fitness, muscle recovery, cardiovascular recovery, stretching,” Marcus described of the services, which include IV drip therapy, cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and compression therapy.

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Not an athlete? Onsite nurses and nurse practitioners may discover vitamin deficiencies upon intake, or a client may simply be struggling with sleep. The hyperbaric chamber, Marcus noted, is particularly useful for clients with arthritis. “Depending on what your ailment is, we can target it.” Clients often come in multiple times a week for a Vitamin D or B complex shot, one step of an overall health and wellness lifestyle that is even more of a priority in 2021. As for Orangetheory, the workout equipment remains spaced and the studio follows all current Michigan state guidelines. For those who are still not comfortable heading back to the gym in person, an Orangetheory workout is still available. OT Live, which rolled out this past year, isn’t simply an online workout class. It provides members with live, hour-long classes led by a local coach who can provide real-time feedback, offering corrections and motivation – just like in the studio.

FACES:BUSINESS

INVESTMENT CONSULTING GROUP Chris DeWolfe 500 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham | 248.273.8200 www.theicg.com | Facebook: Investment-Consulting-Group-107710896735390 | Twitter: cdewolfeICG

he Investment Consulting Group is a local, boutique investment advisory team founded in 1999 by Chris DeWolfe and Jason Franklin. They work with individual investors, families and the next generation, as well as small business and corporate retirement plans, and corporate executives. DeWolfe says his team has a unique investment planning process, where they take a tactical approach with investment strategies. “I always use the sports analogy: we act as the head coach and take offensive and defensive plays from our coordinators and know what players to field, where most others will buy a little of everything and hold through all kinds of market conditions.” This process differs from the more passive, buy and hold though all parts of the market’s cycle approach, which DeWolfe says, “This approach works too, it’s just a matter of how long an investor wants to wait for that ship to right itself

during rough seas, versus having the technique to navigate elsewhere, to calmer waters, for the time being.” Educating clients is big part of the process, and DeWolfe regularly furnishes educational pieces, including a quarterly market and portfolio strategy update to clients and social media followers. “My grandmother was an educator, my mother is a retired educator, and my younger sister is an educator, and I always tell clients that 50 percent of my job is educating them,” he said. DeWolfe lives in Birmingham with his wife Stacey and their two children and family dog. They are involved with a wide range of activities and sports, enjoying the outdoors in all seasons.

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FACES:BUSINESS

AREA RUG CO. Tina Smart 202 East Maple Rd., Birmingham | 248.480.0715 www.arearugco.com | Facebook: arearugco | Instagram: arearugco

rowing up in a family-owned rug business in Ontario, Canada, Tina Smart developed a passion for area rugs and home décor which she recently brought to downtown Birmingham with the opening of her new showroom, Area Rug Co. After getting married and moving to Michigan five years ago, Smart continued to work in the family business, but between commuting distance, the birth of her daughter and the pandemic, it was increasingly challenging. She missed the rug industry as well as the day-to-day customer interactions and decided to tap her expertise by launching her own business. “My family has four well-established rug showroom locations in Ontario with a fifth on the way. I wanted to bring my own, unique concept to Michigan by offering a blend of area rugs and will soon introduce home décor items” she said. “I’m a small, woman-owned business, and while I’m new to Michigan, I’m not new to the rug industry.” According to Smart, she works with overseas rug manufacturers to design each

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rug based on current trends. While she offers some traditional style rugs in her store, she describes her niche as modern and transitional. The top trends featured in her collection include neutrals such as grays and beiges and distressed patterns with soft blended colors. The store’s rug selection is ethically produced with an emphasis on being durable, high quality and simple to clean. Area Rug Co. displays rugs on swinging racks to make shopping easier. While her first showroom concept in Michigan is smaller compared to the Ontario locations, she still has access to additional rugs through the Ontario stores. “I offer very personalized customer service,” she said. “I introduce new rug styles every three to four months, plus have a great selection of home décor items so there is always something new to see.” As part of Smart’s commitment to the community, she plans to make donations to the Michigan Parkinson’s Foundation, a cause with a personal meaning to her family and many others.