Faces:Business 2019 by Downtown Publications Inc.

FACES:BUSINESS LOCAL BUSINESS COMMUNITY PROFILES

SPECIAL SECTION/DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE JULY 2019

INDEX This special advertorial section is designed to provide readers of Downtown newsmagazine with added insight into the people behind the businesses serving the local community. With the exception of the photos on page 15 and 27, all photography is the work of Laurie Tennent of Laurie Tennent Studio in Birmingham. Stories are the work of writers Lisa Brody, Dana Casadei and Kevin Elliott.

Page 3: Team of Lynn Baker & Deby Gannes • Lynn Baker, Deby Gannes Page 4: Spa Mariana • Maciek Lyko Page 5: Australia 2000 Travel • Karen Hardy Hodgson Page 6: McCleod Carpet One • Stan Fons Page 7: Tender • Cheryl and Karen Daskas Page 8: Mills Pharmacy + Apothecary • Pierre Boutros Page 9: Shades Optical • William J. Koppin OD Page 10: Harp's Lingerie • Doug Hardy, Tom Hardy, Dr. Lew Harp Page 11: The Birmingham Tailor • Ali Cheaib Page 12: The Italian Dish • Holly Anselmi Page 13: Sterling Development Corporation • Todd Emerson Page 14: Deyo Studio • Barbara Deyo Page 15: KW Domain Birmingham • Tushar Vakhariya Page 16: B&R Auto Repairs & Towing • Ray Bazzi Page 17: College Admissions Counseling • Jessica Fowle, Julie Gould, Jane Williams Page 18: Hazel, Ravines and Downtown • Emmele Herrold, Beth Hussey Page 19: Kastler Construction Inc. • Rick Kastler, Paul Kozicki Page 20: Lori Karbal • Lori Karbal Page 21: Stroh's Ice Cream Parlour • Tino Orozco, Paul Scott Page 22: Yummy Cupcakes • Lori Horton Page 23: KW Domain Birmingham • Erin Keating DeWald Page 24: Castaldi • Anna Castaldi Page 25: The Morrie • Aaron F. Belen Page 26: College Choice Counseling • Barbara Connelly Page 27: SEE Eyewear • Richard Golden Page 28: Dan Gutfreund Realty Group • Dan Gutfreund

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

FACES:BUSINESS

TEAM OF LYNN BAKER & DEBY GANNES 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, the two also rely on timeless style and skills. “We add the most important aspects they can’t get off the computer,” Baker said. “There must be a hands-on approach to pricing all properties,” Gannes added. “Zillow pricing has no effect because they don't have access to the most current information or are able to see the inside of the home with the upgrades or special features of the home.” It seems their client-first philosophy – they always do a personal interview with clients and go out to the house before putting together a presentation – has been working. The duo has worked together for decades, making them the top listing

agents at Hall and Hunter for 21 years out of their 22-year partnership. But Baker and Gannes – who play off each other’s strengths – are much more than just successful listing agents. Baker 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 charities to support, such as the Older Persons Commission (OPC) and Rochester Community Schools. They also constantly 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,” Baker said. “What we tell our team when we go out to do a listing or presentation is that we’re here to educate.” Above: Deby Gannes, Lynn Baker DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 3

FACES:BUSINESS

SPA MARIANA Maciek Lyko 909 Haynes Street, Birmingham 48009, 248.792.2050 | 6447 Inkster Road, Bloomfield Hills 48301, 248.592.4300 www.spamariana.com | Facebook/spamariana | Instagram/spamariana

aciek Lyko wasn't born a masseuse and spa owner. Through hard work, sacrifice and a unique journey, he transformed himself from a poor boy in rural Poland to the owner of two award-winning spas in Birmingham and Bloomfield, someone in demand for the healing touch of his hands by not only locals, but celebrity clients and athletes, as well. Lyko, owner of Spa Mariana in Birmingham and Bloomfield, was born shortly after his father died in a rural factory town in Poland. His mother spotted his talent as a dancer, and he became a professional youth dancer in ballroom, ballet and traditional Polish dancing. At 17, severe ankle pain led him to a masseuse who transformed him, physically and spiritually. “Not only did I heal but he also ignited my desire to help others find their own path to wellness,” Lyko said. He studied in Europe and Asia, and found his way to Michigan, working

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and studying first at St. Mary's College, then as a private masseur. In 2010, he opened Spa Mariana, offering massages, facials, body treatments, and other spa services in a tranquil setting. The Bloomfield spa followed in 2015, with team training for a South Africa spa opening in summer 2019. Lyko, a Birmingham resident, has written a book, “Beyond Relaxation,” a guide on how to enjoy the spa experience, and will soon have a second, a business-to-business blueprint, “Maximize Your Massage Department Profits.” “I'm a mentor, a coach, I consult with other spas and I train spas and individual masseuses and owners in owning the spa business,” Lyko said. “My favorite part is sharing my knowledge, utilizing my passion and knowledge to help others achieve their dream.”

FACES:BUSINESS

AUSTRALIA 2000 TRAVEL Karen Hardy Hodgson 139 W. Maple Road, Suite C, Birmingham 48009, 248.647.4530 www.australia2000travel.com | Facebook/Australia2000travel | Twitter/Australia2000

s a fifth-generation Australian with a lifetime of travel experience, Karen Hardy Hodgson founded Australia 2000 Travel with a unique knowledge and passion for providing one-of-a-kind experiences on luxury, bespoke, experiential journeys to South Pacific travel destinations. Whether it's talking with the skipper of a 40-foot yacht while sailing on Sydney Harbor, taking in the culture and sights of the Australian Outback with a private guide, hiking in New Zealand or snorkeling on the Great Sea Reef off a remote tropical island in idyllic Fiji, Hardy Hodgson ensures each destination is as unique as the traveler. “Every itinerary is created from scratch. I start by asking people what makes their eyes sparkle and their heart sing,” she said. “There's a gift I have to listen well when people describe what they like doing in their lives then match that in a fun way to a travel adventure.” Hardy Hodgson and her husband have lived in downtown Birmingham for 32

years and are often seen walking around town. A former teacher in Australia, she began her travel career more than a quarter century ago in response to the number of locals who expressed interest in exploring the South Pacific, and concern that they were unable to find qualified professionals to fulfill those dreams. Hardy Hodgson is recognized by Tourism Australia as Michigan’s only Premier Aussie Specialist, by Tourism New Zealand as a Life Time Gold Kiwi Specialist and by elite Luxperience as one of the Top Two Hundred Fifty Travel Designers in the World. “Everything our clients do has an element of meeting the locals and discovering the usual from an unusual perspective,” she said. “That's the principle of what I do – always making sure we don't put people on big tour buses.”

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FACES:BUSINESS

MCLEOD CARPET ONE Stan Fons 42598 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills 48304, 248.333.7086 www.mcleodcarpet.com | Facebook/McleodCarpetOne | Instagram/mcleodcarpet

his year marks 60 years for local flooring company, McLeod Carpet One. “It’s very exciting,” said Stan Fons, owner at McLeod. “We are very proud of the fact that we’ve been a leader in the business for 60 years.” Originally, the company was opened in 1959 by then-owner Mac McLeod, but since 1997, it has been owned by Fons. The love for the business clearly runs in the family, as his son, Danny, is McLeod’s contract manager, daughter, Christine, is director of operations, and wife, Mary, is office manager. The store expanded into the building next door, and as industry trends have evolved to focus more on design, the company works to provide the best customer service to their clients. The team at McLeod Carpet also places a strong importance on the

community through their Carpet One Cares initiative, where they work with local charities, including the Bottomless Toy Chest, Children’s Leukemia Foundation, Alternatives for Girls and Building for America’s Bravest. McLeod is the choice for many of the area’s finest designers and custom home builders. “We pride ourselves on having trustworthy experts in the field when it comes to all aspects of the business,” says Fons. That can't be said for all businesses. When they say they have experienced employees working to help customers find their ideal flooring – whether it be carpet, hardwood, or tile – believe them. Fons has been there for over 30 years, and the sales team combined has over 75 years of experience in flooring and design.

Above: Stan Fons and the team at McLeod 6 / DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE

FACES:BUSINESS

TENDER Cheryl and Karen Daskas 271 W. Maple Road, Birmingham 48009, 248.258.0212 www.tenderbirmingham.com | Facebook/TenderBirmingham | Instagram/tenderbham

ndi Rehm wants you to have a good time, like a really, really good time. “The most important thing is about having fun,” says Rehm, manager at the iconic Birmingham boutique Tender. “People want an experience they cannot get online.” That is the main reason she has such great relationships with her clients – it is all about trust. When clients come in for Rehm’s assistance, some want wardrobes for an entire season while others simply want a piece for a special occasion. They know Rehm is always sure to style them in a fresh and forward look. For Rehm – who studied fashion merchandising at Michigan State University – working at Tender is like being a kid in a candy shop. Except the candy is fashion, something Rehm has loved since childhood. The boutique opened 25 years ago – Rehm’s been there for 20 – and is

owned by sisters Karen and Cheryl Daskas. While Tender has evolved over the years, the boutique's emphasis remains on European and American designer fashion that is unique to the market. Tender never loses focus on customer service and providing the ultimate experience. Rehm said it is all about knowing your client and taking into account their personality. “They need to know they look great and feel special, which is where I come in.” “People ask me all the time how I can stay at the same place for so long?” laughs Rehm “But I look at it as ever-changing. Every season is new fashion and new people to meet. Plus after 20 years it is like working with your family. We laugh a lot!” So Tender is a really good time for her, too.

Above: Andi Rehm DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 7

FACES:BUSINESS

MILLS PHARMACY + APOTHECARY Pierre Boutros 1744 W. Maple Road A, Birmingham 48009, 248.644.5060 www.millspharmacy.com | Facebook/MillsPharmacy | Twitter/MillsPharmacy | Instagram/millspharmacy

ream jobs and the perfect community are hard to come by, but Pierre Boutros has found both in Birmingham. After earning his Doctorate of Pharmacy degree from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, Boutros began his professional career in Michigan in 1997. Shortly after marrying his wife Beatrice, who also holds a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, the two landed in Birmingham in 2010. Already the proud owner of OneCare, a long-term care pharmacy, Boutros' purchase of Mills, a 70-year community pharmacy in 2010 was the perfect opportunity to transform an aged location into the state-of-theart retail and compounding pharmacy it is today. Mills offers not only pharmacy services but also European-style apothecary products that elevate the shopping experience to another level while staying true to a heritage

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defined by quality, service and community connection. The local pharmacy experience has developed strong relationships between Mills customers and Boutros, and deepened his commitment to the community. In 2015, Boutros was elected to the Birmingham City Commission, where he is currently Mayor Pro-tem. Today, Pierre and Beatrice are busy raising their three children and running multiple businesses. Pierre is focused on continuing his work to improve Birmingham for the people who call it home today – and into the future. “Whether it’s in my white coat at the pharmacy or in a suit at a city meeting, taking care of people is who I am. My kids, my customers, and the community are what I’m passionate about and keeps me going,” he said.

FACES:BUSINESS

SHADES OPTICAL William J. Koppin OD 193 W. Maple Road, Birmingham 48009, 248.645.0075 www.shadesoptical.com | Facebook/ShadesOpticalBirmingham | Instagram/Shadesoptical

or three decades, Michigan optometrist Dr. Bill Koppin has been changing the standard of eye care in metro Detroit. His practice, Shades Optical located in Birmingham, is committed to delivering an extraordinary level of personalized service and attention to detail for patients who come from all over the globe. Shades has always abided by the mission that the best vision starts with the best eye exam. And every year the Shades Optical eye exam gets even more precise, with new instruments and protocols that keep the Shades community seeing clearly, comfortably in the best fashion frames. Shades is one of the most innovative and remarkable optometric practices in the world that has built an outstanding reputation for merging cutting edge style with constantly advancing technology. Dr. Bill, as he is called, and his team take close care and attention with every patient, exam, frame, contact lens, and

treatment. The Shades team seeks out the highest quality materials, curates the finest designs from around the world, including limited edition collections from Theo, Anne et Valentin, Barton Perreira and more. Dr. Bill believes the eyes are the window to whole body wellness. This eyebody connection is at the core of Dr. Bill Koppin's overall philosophy about integrative care that Shades Optical refers to as the Line of Sight. Eye care needs change with time and internal and external conditions. Dr. Bill and the Shades team have unique protocols for testing and treatment that include optimization for sports, computer work, low light, dry gritty blinky eyes, tough prescriptions and more. Shades is a unique business, owned and operated by a doctor who provides quite literally an eye-opening level of sophisticated optometric care along with whole body wellness.

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FACES:BUSINESS

HARP'S LINGERIE Doug Hardy, Tom Hardy, Dr. Lew Harp 265 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham 48009, 248.642.2555 www.harps-lingerie.com | Facebook/harps1947 | Twitter/harps1947 | Instagram/harpslingerie

ven though Harp’s Lingerie has been around since 1947, not that much has actually changed. Yes, they now have a website and a social media presence – and are more specialized than when they began – but the heart of what they do, and who they are, is the same now as it was when they first opened over 70 years ago. “It’s been a great family business,” said Lisa Hardy Hamill, who runs Harp’s Lingerie with her cousin, Kim Hardy Hickson. “It’s been wonderful watching...being able to transform and help women really feel great about themselves. That’s what we really try to do. “It’s not rocket science to make somebody feel good,” she continued. Hamill said that starts with the trust they’ve built with their customers, who receive one-on-one service from the minute they walk in the store. Their employees – who combined have over 100 years of experience – help

customers find everything from the right bra for under their wedding dress to everyday needs. The duo strive to live up to the legacy of excellent service their grandmother, Elizabeth Harp, started when she opened the store with her husband, Elouis. Harp’s is currently owned by Tom and Doug Hardy and Lew Harp. “To follow in my grandmother’s footsteps was pretty huge,” said Hamill, who joked that Elizabeth ran the store so long she was like the Queen of England. During an era where online shopping is taking over, one would think that speciality stores like Harp’s may be nervous about continuing their success, but not Hamill. “There will always be a need for being fit for the proper undergarments,” she said. Above: Lisa Hardy Hamill, Kim Hardy Hickson

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FACES:BUSINESS

THE BIRMINGHAM TAILOR Ali Cheaib 139 W. Maple Road Suite H-K, Birmingham 48009, 248.433.3703 www.thebirminghamtailor.com | Facebook/ali.cheaib.3 | Facebook/bhamtailor | Instagram/bhamtailor

li Cheaib first picked up a needle and thread at the age of 13 in Beirut, Lebanon, where his family owned a small manufacturing business. After emigrating to the United States, he worked at various tailor shops and eventually opened The Birmingham Tailor in 2002, where he has quickly become a household name for his honesty in fitting and skilled craft tailoring, as well as working with local high end boutiques from Tender, Ferragamo, Lululemon, Gucci, Max Mara, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. Recently, Cheaib expanded his business to offer custom made-to-measure clothing for men, focusing on suits, sport coats, dress coats and shirts, many with unique linings. Clients are able to choose fabric from fine Italian, French and English mills, including Loro Piana, Scabal, Zegna, Gladson and Holland & Sherry, among others. A wide variety of spectacular linings are available to

choose from to completely personalize the suits and jackets. Many custom suits are clients' wedding suits or designed – and monogrammed – for special events. “Always, always, we focus on the quality,” Cheaib said. “We're tailors and clothiers. We make a big impact because we understand tailoring and how suits are supposed to fit, and focus on the current fashions of Europe.” Quality and fit are watchwords for Cheaib and his staff, who want everyone to walk out looking and feeling their best, because he views every client as a friend or neighbor since Cheaib and his wife Lisa, who often works alongside him, have lived in Birmingham for 19 years, along with daughter Jenna, 13, and son Hadi, 9, both of whom attend Birmingham Covington School. When not working, he admits he's quite a foodie, enjoying many local restaurants.

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FACES:BUSINESS

THE ITALIAN DISH Holly Anselmi 288 E. Maple Road, Birmingham 48009, 248.593.8299 www.theitaliandish.com | Facebook/theitaliandish | Twitter/theitaliandish | Instagram/the.italian.dish

n 2003, Holly Anselmi took a trip to Italy with her niece. Little did she know that trip would end up inspiring her to switch careers. With her Italian heritage and love for ceramics – which she bought a lot of during said trip – an idea started brewing, one where she would combine those loves and leave her corporate job. “I wanted to do something that I had more excitement and passion for,” Anselmi said. Enter The Italian Dish, the Birmingham speciality store she’s owned since 2005. When the store originally opened, it primarily sold Italian ceramics. Today, 14 years later, it has expanded in not only price points but has products from all over Europe, including soaps, lotions, books, picture frames, and solid color

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dinnerware as Anselmi looks to expand the bridal registry side of her business. Anselmi’s shop evolved because she listened to the needs of her customers, which Anselmi said is one of the best parts of her job. While some things have changed, a few haven’t, including Anselmi’s desire to educate – done through weekly emails about products and signage in the store – and make sure her product offerings are different from the rest. “A lot of people are tired of going to the same box store and seeing the same product. So we have unique products. If someone is looking for a gift they know they can come to my store and find something,” she said. This spring Anselmi and her niece returned to Italy on a buying trip. Wonder what inspired her this time.

FACES:BUSINESS

STERLING DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Todd Emerson 2382 Franklin Road, Bloomfield Hills 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. 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 & 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. “I like to stay active in all aspects of the business, including customer relations, marketing and regular site visits. This allows me to properly communicate my vision to my staff along with insuring quality expectations are met,” Emerson said. “I am 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 insure customer satisfaction and ease of ownership beyond the warranty period. “Our goal is to insure complete customer satisfaction from the completion of the project and into the future.”

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FACES:BUSINESS

DEYO STUDIO Barbara Deyo 576 N. Old Woodward Avenue 2nd floor, Birmingham 48009, 248.203.1222 www.deyostudio.com | Facebook/BarbaraDeyo | Instagram/barbaradeyomua

hen Barbara Deyo was nine, her father came home and announced he had quit his job to start his own business. That moment, and the advice that would follow, made a lasting impression on Deyo, who has owned Deyo Studio in Birmingham since 2009. That’s thanks in part to the Birmingham community, which has supported Deyo since her first Birmingham endeavor, Boldface Makeup studio in 2000. She co-owned Birmingham's Touch Spa as well. While Deyo is often now at Deyo Studio, during the beginning of her career she worked for TV channels like NBC and CBS, and was even at the courthouse with Tom Brokaw during the O.J. Simpson trial. The lengthy list of celebrities she’s worked with – including Kid Rock, President Barack Obama, and Sir Paul McCartney – has helped her become the go-to name for VIPs when they come to Detroit.

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Her regular clients are who she counts on, and she wouldn’t have a business without them. They’ve become family. “I’ve had clients and seen them grow up and have weddings and baby showers. I really enjoy catching up with my clients, hearing about what’s going on in their lives,” Deyo said. “It’s a very personal business.” At Deyo Studio, she and her team offer airbrush tanning, facials, makeup applications, waxing services, massages, microblading and eyebrow shaping. The latter has been her number one service for years. Her advice for those thinking about doing their own eyebrows? “Don’t” she laughed. “Have a professional do it. It’s really easy to make a mistake. One hair can make a difference.”

FACES:BUSINESS

KW DOMAIN BIRMINGHAM Tushar Vakhariya 210 S. Old Woodward, Suite 200, Birmingham 48009, 248.289.0660 www.Tusharvakhariya.com | Facebook/TusharVakhariyaAssociates | Instagram/Tushar_Vakhariya

ost young boys gravitate to sports, climbing trees or video games. For Tushar Vakhariya, he asked his friends to challenge him in Monopoly. Unbeknown to Tushar, his childhood pastime would emulate his future career. Vakhariya has been investing in real estate since his early 20s. He invests in luxury properties and rentals and short-term housing in Birmingham, Bloomfield and Detroit. As a young investor, Vakhariya learned market trends. He lent his expertise and knowledge to his friends and colleagues. This led to a natural transition into his current place in the real estate industry. He is a top producing agent in the top one percent of realtors in the nation with over a half billion dollars in career sales. His clients include luxury buyers, high net worth individuals, professional

athletes, and those who are looking for a family home. He shares that finding a dream home for his clients is the most rewarding part of his job. “A home is where one finds the most comfort and where people envision their future where memories will be made,” Vakhariya said. Vakhariya is also a proud co-owner of KW Domain in Birmingham. The KW Domain office opened in 2016 and has over 200 agents. Vakhariya’s future includes expanding his personal real estate portfolio as well as opening another KW Domain office in Bloomfield Hills. Ultimately, he aspires to have a presence in the international market. Unlike Monopoly, Vakhariya does not foresee the game ending. The possibilities are endless.

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FACES:BUSINESS

B&R AUTO REPAIRS & TOWING Ray Bazzi 2330 Cole Street, Birmingham 48009, 248.258.7000 hen Ray Bazzi was asked the thing people should know about his company, B&R Auto Repairs & Towing, his answer was a bit surprising. It wasn’t about any of the services they offer, like mechanical repairs for everything from engines to transmissions to brakes, and tune-ups. Or that they are now licensed to use a new set-up for freon. His answer was that they were honest. “I’m a firm believer in being straight-up with people due to the fact that I like to go home at the end of the day with a clear conscience,” said Bazzi, who opened the current location in 2009. Bazzi won't let people get taken advantage of or told to buy things they don’t need. Further, his customers know that.

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With no website or social media to advertise on, having customers spread the word about B&R through word-of-mouth is essential. “I’m not a computer person but give me a car and I’ll fix it,” Bazzi said. Bazzi has always been into mechanics. Before opening up in Birmingham, he and his brother owned a gas station in Romulus that did repairs and towing. Then, in 1998, he left for AAA, where he worked before deciding to open his own shop. It seems his love for mechanics has been passed on to at least one of his kids, with his nine-year-old very interested in the business. Good thing too, because Bazzi hopes to pass the business down to the next generation. But don’t worry, he’ll stick around even after that happens. “I’m not going anywhere,” he said.

FACES:BUSINESS

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS COUNSELING Jessica Fowle, Julie Gould, Jane Williams 1221 Bowers #254, Birmingham 48012, 248.425.1407 www.cactoday.com | Facebook/collegeACtoday | Twitter/collegeACtoday

ane Williams and her two colleagues, Julie Gould and Jessica Fowle, at College Admissions Counseling, work as a team to help not only students – but the whole family – feel comfortable finding the right college match. “Parents get as anxious as the students do,” Williams noted. “We try to take the pressure off and help them manage the process in a timely manner.” All three have experience in college counseling – Williams and Gould worked in the Counseling Department at Seaholm High School for years, and Fowle, on the other side of the table, was an admissions advisor at Kalamazoo College. “Working as a team, we understand both sides of the process,” Williams pointed out. They like to begin working with students early, ideally when they are entering their freshman or sophomore years in high school, so they can assist with

curriculum choices and resume building. Williams pointed out that students’ resumes have become an important part of the admissions application. “Colleges are looking for young leaders who will make a difference in the world.” As students approach their junior and senior years, they help families find the right college match, with an emphasis on the entire family. “We find the right fit for a student’s interests,” Williams said, “whether a big or small campus, a distance that's close to home, a rural or urban campus. Also, it's really important to keep in mind the family's finances.” She said that while most assume that means only an in-state college is affordable, Williams suggested that there are a variety of tuition levels and merit scholarships that are available out-of-state. Their goal is to guide families to find those wonderful options. Above: Julie Gould, Jane Williams DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 17

FACES:BUSINESS

HAZEL, RAVINES AND DOWNTOWN Emmele Herrold, Beth Hussey 34977 Woodward Avenue Suite 100, Birmingham 48009, 248.671.1714 www.hrd.kitchen | Facebook/hrd.kitchen | Instagram/hrd.kitchen

ometimes, when you know, you just know. At least that was the case for Hazel, Ravines and Downtown co-owners and friends, Beth Hussey and Emmele Herrold, who is also the executive chef. “We call each other our food soulmates because we have very similar ideas of how food should be and how it should be served,” Hussey said. Before they opened HRD – named after three Birmingham neighborhoods that converge at its location – the duo worked together at Ferndale’s One-Eyed Betty’s and Pop’s for Italian. They met through a mutual friend and quickly knew they wanted to one day open a restaurant together. Enter HRD. The duo work well together for many reasons, like how they balance each other out and have the same core, fundamental beliefs. Hussey said they both believe that work should be fun. If you and your employees are enjoying

themselves, then so will your guests. It helps keep staff turnover low, too. “We definitely think we’ve filled a niche that needed filling,” Hussey said. Since opening the casual dining space a few months ago they’ve learned a lot about running their own restaurant. The food and drinks menus are constantly evolving – they are split in to three sections: Hazel (familiar food), Ravines (well-traveled), and Downtown (trending foods) – and they have plans to stay in Birmingham for the long term. “A lot of people have these aspirations to move on and open something else quickly, and for the two of us we just want to keep growing what we’re doing...as far as the future goes, we’re not in any hurry to make any giant changes,” Herrold said.

Above: Beth Hussey, Emmele Herrold 18 / DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE

FACES:BUSINESS

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

ow has Kastler Construction Inc. stayed in business for over 20 years? That’s easy. “We work very hard...too hard,” laughed Rick Kastler, president of Kastler Construction, Inc. “And we love what we do” adds vice president Paul Kozicki. Together, Kastler and Kozicki run two successful businesses that serve both discriminating homeowners and professionals. Kastler Construction is a fullservice design/build firm, working with clients from design inception until the construction is complete. With a 2,500 square-foot showroom, which also houses their sister company, Visionary Cabinetry & Design, clients are able to choose from a variety of cabinetry and project materials right on site. Kastler’s primary focus is building custom homes, cohesive home additions,

whole house renovations, gourmet kitchens, and bathroom remodeling. Kastler noted that the most common request in a home used to be open floor plans, but recently, people are asking for more defined rooms. “For us, it’s really about helping the 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. And high quality is what they do – just ask their clients who often bring them back for second and even third projects. “There’s nothing better than reading a review online from a client saying how satisfied they were with our work, attention to detail, and being connected with them during the entire process. It’s very rewarding,” he said.

Above: Paul Kozicki, Rick Kastler DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 19

FACES:BUSINESS

LORI KARBAL Lori Karbal 560 N. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham 48009, 248.258.1959 www.lorikarbal.com | Facebook/lori.karbal | Instagram/LoriKarbal

or both longtime devotees and newer fans of Lori Karbal's sophisticated and beautiful Birmingham boutique, they might be surprised to discover that the store wasn't originally a part of her life's plans. Before opening her eponymous business in 1990, Karbal was a court reporter for 13 years, a job she realized wasn’t making her happy. However, what she did love was ordering and discovering new products – so when her parents suggested she look into opening her own store, she started making inquiries. “I was very fortunate,” said Karbal, who grew up in the area. “I had parents that made this possible for me.” What first began as a cosmetics, lotions, fragrance and candle shop has evolved into a true boutique, offering an assortment of specialty items for her customers as both she – and they – grew and matured.

“We call ourselves an edited boutique,” Karbal said of the eclectic medley of clothing, lingerie, unique home accessories, and as at the beginning nearly 30 years ago, fragrance, candles and lotions. “I was continually looking to add products and opportunities for my customers,” she said. “We try to offer things that other people locally may not offer. We're always trying to push the envelope here.” Lori Karbal the boutique has also developed into a local gathering spot, where Karbal and her “girls” have enjoyed watching many of her customers get married, have babies, and watch those children grow up and go to college and into first jobs. “That's a part of my business that I love – that people come in and share their lives with me,” she said. Above: Margo Apple

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FACES:BUSINESS

STROH’S ICE CREAM PARLOUR Tino Orozco, Paul Scott 3659 W. Maple Road, Bloomfield Hills 48301, 248.647.7660 Facebook/strohsicecream

aul Scott’s day can change in a matter of minutes. It really just depends on the weather and how much people want ice cream. “Some days we’re sitting around like, where is everyone? Especially in the off season,” said Scott, who owns Stroh’s Ice Cream Parlour of Bloomfield Hills with his business partner, Tino Orozco. “But this time of year, when the weather is better, we're pretty busy.” Since opening in the winter of 1964 – Scott has been there since the beginning, Orozco for the last 33 years – the retro feel of when they first opened has become iconic while their selection has expanded. Now, instead of solely selling ice cream, they offer frozen yogurt, frozen drinks, and old-school candies. With countless flavors, Scott said there are a variety of popular sellers, but

it’s that blend of blue, yellow, and red – aka Superman – that guests, young and old, keep coming back for. “People who move away and come to visit call and ask if we have it,” Scott said. “They all want Superman.” Scott’s more partial to chocolate and peanut butter, coffee, or cookies and cream. When asked how it feels to have been in business this long, Scott laughed before he said that it sure doesn’t feel that long. Like many who have owned shops for over half a century – something Scott attributes to hard work, dedication, and perseverance – he’s gotten to watch his customers grow up and start bringing in their grandkids and in some cases, great-grandkids. He’s even watched some go gray or bald. “We’ve been here so long we’re all like family now,” Scott said. Above: Paul Scott, Tino Orozco DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE / 21

FACES:BUSINESS

YUMMY CUPCAKES Lori Horton 39566 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills 48304, 248.494.4644 www.yummycupcakes.com | Facebook/YummyCupcakesBloomfieldHills | Twitter/YummycupcakesBH | Instagram/YummycupcakesBH

ith more than 400 different cupcake flavors available, customers at Yummy Cupcakes in Bloomfield Hills could eat a different flavor cupcake every day and still not taste each and every flavor in a year. "My favorite is probably either Salted Caramel, Chocolate Covered Macaroon, or Miss S’More (lemon and white chocolate)," said Lori Horton, owner-operator of Yummy Cupcakes. Of course, it has to be hard to pick when the choices are made fresh from scratch each and every day, including a full line of vegan, gluten-less, gluten-less vegan, and sugar free cupcakes. Horton, who opened the franchise store in 2013, following a 12-year career in the automotive industry and years at home with her two daughters, is the name and face behind the store. In fact, it's likely she's the one behind the counter, working the ovens and mixers, decorating the cupcakes, answering the phones or even delivering catering orders on any given day.

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"I make a point of remembering people's names," she said about treating customers like members of the family, often remembering their kids' names and birthdays, too. Perhaps the work reminds Horton of her very first job during high school working in a bakery, learning to decorate cakes and pastries and work the counter. Today, Horton keeps a daily mix of at least 26 different cupcake flavors. Her creativity shows through with her offering of cupcake-related specialty treats, such as Truffles, Truffle Pops, Cupcake Crunch, Frosting Shots, Cupcake Push Pops, and ready-to-eat Cookie Dough Pops. Yummy Cupcakes also offers advance order custom cakes of all sizes. "It’s a great place to stop by if you’re having a bad day," Horton said, "happiness is just a cupcake away."

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 fastest growing office 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

CASTALDI Anna Castaldi 245 W. Maple Road, Birmingham 48009, 248.590.2890 hen a woman is seeking her one-of-a-kind wedding dress, mother of the bride or groom gown, or any other special occasion dress, she turns to Anna Castaldi, owner of Roma Sposa Bridal Atelier and Castaldi, Anna's new store for formal wear, both in Birmingham. Castaldi opened Roma Sposa in 1996, and quickly discovered that her brides required more than just wedding gowns. “When I began working with women, I realized there was a need for dresses for rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, receptions, and to go to other parties,” she said, noting they became long-term customers. “She would go to the auto shows, charity events, bar mitzvahs, other weddings. “We started out dressing brides and mother of the brides, the sisters of the brides, and these customers became repeat customers, and would tell other customers,” Castaldi said of the metamorphosis to an evening wear store, Castaldi, that caters well beyond weddings.

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Originally named Roma Notte, the evening wear store was located within Roma Sposa for 15 years before Castaldi opened her namesake store on W. Maple Road in 2018, featuring cocktail, evening and black tie attire. “I travel worldwide constantly finding designs and searching for designers who work by hand, do details and who are willing to customize dresses for my customers, because every woman has different needs,” she said of the customization to choose any color, fabric, neckline, and sleeve. “As a stylist, I both consult and analyze your style, shape, the way you move and I can suggest styles that best suit you, including the importance of the location and place you are attending to make sure you are in season. Myself and my team, for us it's a mission, not a job to help a woman feel confident and shine.”

FACES:BUSINESS

THE MORRIE Aaron F. Belen 260 N. Woodward Avenue, Birmingham 48009 www.themorrie.com | Facebook/themorrie | Instagram/the_morrie

aron F. Belen understands what diners in Birmingham want, because it's what he desires and enjoys as well. Belen, owner of Royal Oak's Bistro 82, a modern contemporary French restaurant, and SCL, a nightclub right above it, as well as The Morrie, a casual, fun neighborhood roadhouse with late night entertainment, is bringing his passion home with The Morrie Birmingham, opening in July on N. Old Woodward in the Palladium Building. Belen, who lives in Bloomfield Hills, attended Cranbrook Kingswood Schools as a “lifer,” learned business acumen, real estate knowledge and wisdom from his late grandfather, the original Morrie, Morrie Fenkell, a prominent businessman and banker. “My grandfather was the most important person in my life. I always referred to him as my best friend,” Belen said. Fenkell passed away from pancreatic

cancer in 2007, and Belen, who said he could have moved to New York, Chicago, LA or Miami, returned to metro Detroit. “I viewed it as a great opportunity to make it my own way and make my own name.” While others of his generation are focusing on the resurgent Detroit dining scene, Belen is excited to energize Birmingham. Going into and extensively renovating a space where three other ventures have failed, Belen said The Morrie is designed to fill a void in the marketplace of affordable quality fare for all ages. “I have a good handle on the community. I grew up and still live here. I know Birmingham,” he emphasized. “Our motto at The Morrie is 'Food, Drink and Music,' and we do all three at a very high level. The Morrie is really a venue – it's food, it's cocktails and it's entertainment.”

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FACES:BUSINESS

COLLEGE CHOICE COUNSELING Barbara Connolly 950 E. Maple Road, Suite 208, Birmingham 48009, 248.294.0099 www.collegecc.com

arbara Connolly’s clients come to her at one of the most stressful times of their lives: when they're applying to college. As a parent of four children she helped through high school and college, Connolly knows what an intense process it is for both students and parents. That’s partly why she started College Choice Counseling in 2002. “I really didn’t understand what the school’s counselors were telling us...I thought there was a need to do self-help,” Connolly said. “Once I started doing self-help...I became very expert at it.” What began as a kitchen-based, referral business has grown into a full-scale company, with a team of 15 professional tutors and college counselors. Her students have been accepted to schools like Harvard, Yale, Columbia and Michigan, among many others. College Choice Counseling offers tutors for numerous academic subjects,

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SAT/ACT prep, essay writing, resume preparation, and college applications. To stay on top of curriculum and campus changes Connolly visits schools throughout the year. She said her holistic approach makes her unique in the field. Her qualifications do, too. Connolly is not only a lawyer, professional member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, and former admissions reader at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business, she’s also the only Certified Educational Planner in the Bloomfield/Birmingham area. She’s an advocate for her students, and watching them succeed and grow is a pretty rewarding thing to witness. “When they genuinely, independently, come to me with excitement to tell me, ‘Look what I’ve done, look what I’ve achieved,’ that’s very, very gratifying,” Connolly said.

FACES:BUSINESS

SEE EYEWEAR Richard Golden 160 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham 48009 (Flagship store location), 248.723.1900 www.seeeyewear.com | Facebook/SEEeyewear | Twitter/seeeyewear | Instagram/seeeyewear

oming to the eyeglass business with a background in progressive rock radio, SEE Eyewear founder and CEO Richard Golden had a hit three decades ago when he introduced “Sexy Specs” to the world. Today, he's still topping the charts with a tune that everyone appreciated: high quality, exclusive glasses at an agreeable price. “We started SEE with our first store in Birmingham in 1998 as a test with a unique concept,” Golden said. “We knew factories around the world that would make us frames that are as good or better as the designers being made, but without the brand name. The whole idea was that I could make them for a great price and not have to buy them from someone else and mark them up.” Golden successfully cut out the middle man in order to bring customers fashion-forward frames without the price that comes with designer names. “All of

a sudden in 1998, we had great frames in the window and our line was 'Hip without the Rip.'” SEE has 43 locations with plans to grow. The collection is crafted under the SEE brand, and are handmade in limited quantities. “If we produce a frame in five colors and only order 80 pairs, that's about two per store,” Golden said. “If you're in Nashville, you only have one or two frames of a kind in the city. That's the closest thing to custom frames there is. “We’re family-owned and operated with a mission to make friends, not customers,” added Golden. “Nothing makes me happier than seeing people shopping with their kids and dogs and having a great time. We wanted it to be fun, and I think we’ve accomplished that.”

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FACES:BUSINESS

DAN GUTFREUND REALTY GROUP Dan Gutfreund 415 S. Old Woodward Avenue, Birmingham 48009, 248.497.4646 www.iSellMichigan.com | Facebook/DanGutfreundRealtySpecialist | Instagram/dan.signaturesothebys

fter selling his custom cabinet making business, and moving to Michigan from Canada, Dan Gutfreund decided to enter the world of real estate, with a little nudge from his wife. “My wife one day woke up and said, ‘You need to get a job,’” said Gutfreund, who took a few years off to enjoy life in between jobs. “I decided to look into real estate because the nature of my previous career was sales and marketing and construction. I thought, that would round me out as a great sales professional in real estate.” Now, he’s the name behind Dan Gutfreund Realty Group, a member of Signature Sotheby's International Realty, and one of their top producers. Gutfreund’s group opened in Birmingham in 2009 and Sotheby’s was the only company Gutfreund interviewed with.

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Recently, Gutfreund has acquired a team – who he said are the best of the best – and he said they treat each home, whether it’s worth $300,000 or $3 million, with the same level of care and strong sales presentation. Over the years Gutfreund has discovered a lot about his new career field, like being available for clients 24/7 and how real estate is not as easy as people think. Especially when you have to start your foundation of clients from scratch. “That made working in this business extra hard because I really, truly had to sell me and what I could bring to the table on my own merit without six degrees of separation,” Gutfreund said. Now, Gutfreund – who is at every house showing – has a multi-million dollar business. Clearly, his personal, old-school approach is working.