showcasing the professional women of colleton county helen infinger 67 years of business, see page 12 thinking about starting a business? see page 4 five traits businesssuccessfulofwomen see page 20
Business owner Rocki Hovenga, who has lived in the Lowcountry since 1999, has over 25 years of experience fabricating draperies, shades, valances, cornice boards, bedding, monogram & embroidery. She began her career as a seamstress and dressmaker and later attended college to study interior design. My profession has brought me great joy. I love it, and I love interior design and fabric,” she said.
Hovenga feels that her contribution to the community is by enriching other women’s lives. She brings happiness to their homes through design. My advice to other businesswomen is to take advantage of educational opportunities. Take chances, be brave and work hard. It takes both hunger and passion for being successful.
1260 Bells Hwy | www.SimplyYoursInteriors.com
“Simply Yours is like a wedding dress for your windows”
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Rocki Hovenga | 843-408-2412
Celebrating Community, Charlotte Norwood
Publisher 2 Simply Yours Interiors 3 Publisher Letter & Table of Contents 4 Thinking about starting a business? 5 ................ Jessica O’Connor 6-7 .......... Cole and Associates, Inc. 8 Thrift Masters 9 Brice Herndon Funeral Chapels and Crematory 10 Avant Auto & Customs, LLC 11 American Insurance, LLC 12 .............. Helen Infinger 13 .............. Westbury Ace Hardware 14-15 Women of The Press and Standard 16 ClearVision 17 Deborah B. Kane 18 Enterprise Bank 19 Carolina Homes & Land Realty 20 Renee M. White 21 .............. Five Traits of successful business women 22-23 USC Salkehatchie 24 Abbillow 25 Katie’s Cupcake Cottage 26 Bell’s Seafood 27 Preserve Pools 28 C.T. Lowndes & Company
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Welcome to our first issue of Colleton Women in Business. I couldn’t be more thrilled to be writing to Thisyou!issue highlights women entrepreneurs and their journey of becoming successful business leaders in our area. These exceptional women have been guided by others and are now able to provide mentorship and leadership themselves in our tight-knit community. My own career has been a winding road in every facet of media from newspaper to digital and social capabilities, broadcast communication, and now to this new role as publisher. Navigating it would not have been possible without the gift of mentorship. I am grateful for all those women! I am also grateful for our extraordinary team of contributing writers, sales staff and graphics guru here at The Press & Standard. This talented group is the backbone of our publications. Without them, there would be no pages to flip, read, dog-ear or tear out. My hope as publisher is that I can make meaningful connections within our county and bring you a fresh, new perspective. I look forward to the growth and prosperity of Colleton County and Walterboro proper – always striving to be better as we move forward together.
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By: Jessica O’Connor
Additionally, the Small Business Administration notes that 99.9% of all businesses in the United States are small businesses. So, if you have aspirations of creating one of your own you’re in good Womencompany!arestrong, determined, caring, and willing to forge full steam ahead toward what lights them up. There are so many qualities women inherently possess that help make a successful business owner. If you’ve dreamed of owning a business of your own, don’t give up on your dream.
The SBA offers resources for hopeful female business owners via the Office of Women’s Business Ownership. Visit informationbusinessesguide/grow-your-business/women-owned-https://www.sba.gov/business-tolearnmore,andfindawealthofonhowtobecomeanentrepreneur. about starting a
situations contributed to a large number of workers seeking to become entrepreneurs during the pandemic. Ready for a surprising (yet refreshing!) stat? According to Gusto, a Human Resources cloud software company, 49% of new businesses that were formed in 2021 belong to women. That’s a sizable change from 2019-that year saw only 28% of new businesses started by women.
The pandemic has been a rough time for us all, and everyone is hoping to put that time fully behind us soon. For many though, the unexpected downtime and swiftly changing business environment sparked inspiration. Millions around the world have faced some sort of change in their career climate since 2020. Some workers were laid off and others made the transition to working from home. Many remained at work as usual, but perhaps became frustrated with the challenges of short staffing and long Thesehours.
Thinking
business? You can do it!
It’s predicted that a record setting 5.4 million businesses were formed in 2021. Many of these business owners recognized the need for an innovative new good or service to accommodate the changing times during the pandemic.
specializes in equine event photography and canine/equine portraiture. She has a special interest in show and hunting dogs, but her relationship with her own hunting dogs allows her to remain relatable to pet owners as well.
• (803) 917-5588
best features of each animal while harnessing the raw power of emotion evoked by the partnership between Jessicabeings.
www.southernsoundphotography.com
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Jessica O’Connor Equine Imagery and Southern Sound
Serving Colleton County, as well as other areas of the Lowcountry and the southeast, Jessica draws on her own life experiences to create unforgettable imagery for horse and sporting dog owners. Being personally immersed in these lifestyles allows the photographer to look through the lens not only as an artist, but as a rider, trainer, handler, and hunter. The result is images that fit industry standard and highlight the
Jessica is also a freelance writer for The Press and Standard, in addition to various equine and hound related publications.
Photography were born when Jessica combined her longtime love of horses and hounds with her newly discovered passion for photography.
oftenwhenevertorepeatAfterbrokershaveimpressiveHertomeetingfind 202
•
Terri loves creatively marketing properties, Carn Street www.teamcoleproperties.com
The Lowcountry’s #1 Hometown
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The Women of
Terri Cole, the owner-operator of Cole & Associates, has a strong team of women working together in a unique, family-style office. Cole & Associates is a highly sought after real estate team offering a great level of expertise in this county. As a result, Terri's company is prepared for continued success and growth in the future. Her team of ladies includes Mandy Judy, Kelly Judy, Niki Hunter, Melissa Beach & Shirley Judy.
www.teamcoleproperties.com 843-549-6611 over 30 years!
of Cole & Associates, Inc.
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Everyone deserves the extrodinary service provided by the team of Realtors! So Call them today!
•
meeting new people, and helping clients find a home that's just the right fit. knowledge of the local market, an impressive sales record, and dedication have made Terri one of the top-selling brokers in Colleton County.
Hometown Realtors for
After more than 20 years in business, Terri’s repeat and referral rate tops 90%. She tries work directly with her former clients whenever possible. Terri says that her clients often feel more like friends or even like family. She cares about what happens to them beyond the sale and finds it rewarding to help someone to secure a home, realize their dream or even get out of a bad situation, if needed. The “art of the deal” is therapeutic, says Terri, with a satisfaction and dedication to serving others that goes beyond earning a commission.
1862 Jefferies Highway • Off Hwy 15 • 843-635-4968
Sonya
My husband and I purchased our building for Auto Glass Masters in 2011, and shortly after, I began operating my business, Thrift Masters, out of a back bay. The need to spread kindness and love has always been a major driving force for my business. In addition, I want to help others save money no matter their financial situation.
To be a successful woman in business, you must be dedicated to your work and willing to make a few sacrifices. However, through hard work and perseverance, you can be proud of your accomplishments and see the joy you bring to others. My advice to my fellow businesswomen is that both the struggle and the love are real. You will have good and bad days, but keep pushing forward. As long as you love what you do, you will be successful.
Needham
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Destiny Johnson - Funeral Assistant/ Student of the Mortuary of Science
Allison Herndon - CFO Lindsey Jones - Chief Administrative Assistant
Brice W. Herndon and Sons Funeral Home has been in business since 1955. Brice and Katherine started the business with a passion to help people through the loss of a loved one. Katherine Herndon was the secretary for the funeral home and would assist with hair, makeup and other aspects of the company. As the business grew, people started requesting a lady Allisonattendant.has followed in her grandmother’s footsteps.
Katherine Herndon - Co-Founder
As a third-generation licensed funeral director and embalmer, she serves as the Managing Director of our Varnville-Hampton Chapel and serves as the company’s Chief Financial Officer, overseeing daily duties within all our subsidiary companies, as well as being active in the management of our funeral chapels, crematory, cemetery, granite division, and carriage company.
While funeral service has mainly been a male dominated industry, the last decade has seen a strong influx of female presence, with many families preferring to being in the care of a woman. As women in this business, we hope to provide each family we serve with compassionate care and guide them through the most difficult time in their life. We want to empower and encourage other women to follow their passion by being an example of what it is to be women in business. We like to reflect on renowned quote by Roy. T. Bennet that reads, “Learn to light a candle in the darkest moments of someone’s life. Be the light that helps others to see; it is what gives life its deepest significance.”
The Ladies of Brice Herndon Company 1193 Bells Highway • www.briceherndonfuneralhome.com • 843-538-5408
While serving on the Board of Directors, she simultaneously fills many roles within the company.
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Angie Avant 843-635-4664
In October 2019, my husband and I, John, decided to open our own business, Avant Auto & Customs LLC. We wanted to carry on a tradition in the line of work that his family had done for generations. My role in our business is integral for daily operations and success. Daily, I ensure my husband can do his job proficiently while also ensuring my customers know their importance when they arrive at our shop. Our company strives to provide our customers with honesty and excellent quality. As a result, I can sleep well at night, knowing that our customers trust our expertise. “We pride ourselves on being honest and upfront with our customers even if a repair is unnecessary.” She said. My advice to fellow businesswomen is to seek out your dreams; make sure your dreams are God-led.
1177 Ulmer Lake Drive •
Teresa Sauls
Teresa is a member of numerous community-based organizations and groups. She is also a Bethel Methodist Church member and an active member of the Walterboro-Colleton Chamber of Commerce. Still, she mostly prides herself on the Colleton County Citadel Club, which raises money to support cadets from Colleton County who attend the military academy in
“I’ve worked very hard to be where I am, but it’s all worth it in the end,” she said with a smile. I couldn’t ask for a better team including Leddy Smith, Sonny Martin, Hannah Lane and Michelle Lane. “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much” Contact me teresa2me@yahoo.com.
105 N. Lucas Street | 843-782-4440
“Being a businesswoman is a role that came naturally,” she said. “I am blessed to have a successful agency and love what I do. However, I base my entire business on customer service.” In a business that can often leave its customers perplexed, Sauls said she prides herself on explaining life insurance and health insurance to her customers in a way that gives them control over their choices. “In the world, we live in, it’s important to look someone in the face and take care of them from beginning to end,” she said. When asked how she juggles her family life and role as a business owner, Sauls said it isn’t always easy. “It was certainly more challenging in the beginning, in the younger years when I was a single mom, but even now, we go, go, go,” she said, laughing. “My husband is a huge support, and our crazy life somehow works out the details.”
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FromCharleston.aprofessional side, she is a past president and current member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. In addition, for two consecutive years, she has been invited to Washington, D.C., for round table discussions about the Affordable Care Act, which centers around Medicare and Medicaid Services. Sauls also sits on the advisory board for Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina, where she has served for the last three years.
Teresa Sauls has learned what it means to carry power as a businesswoman while enjoying her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother. Teresa became a licensed insurance agent 23 years ago. From there, she began working in every aspect of the business, and she now owns American Insurance Center, LLC in Walterboro. She has been the broker and owner for nearly ten years, and recently purchased The Cannady Agency. She serves on The NAIFA Board for SC and is currently the secretary.
Helen Infinger
Helen, unfortunately, passed away in 2020 but left behind a legacy that serves as inspiration for fellow women within our community. Today, you will still find the same quality and customer service that Infinger's Jewelry customers have come to know, love & trust. Infinger's has grown to be a fullservice jewelry store offering a large selection of gold, diamond, platinum, and silver jewelry.
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212 E. WASHINGTON ST • WWW.INFINGERS.COM • 843-549-5616
Infinger's Jewelry was founded in 1953 by Helen & Mack C. Infinger; Infinger's Jewelry started off with a focus on watch repair, a modest selection of Jewelry, and excellent customer service. Mack C. Infinger, who had polio, passed away at age 40, leaving Helen to carry on their dream. She was always determined to succeed. Helen learned the jewelry business through perseverance and hard work while raising her young daughters. For the next 67 years, she was known as an outstanding businesswoman who treated her customers as family. In addition to her professional career, she was a Christian woman who anonymously performed countless deeds for those in need.
Honoring
Shiela Westbury has been helping her husband run Ace Hardware for ten years.
"He needed someone he could trust and depend on to be here. I love office work. I worked in an administrative role for 15 years," she said. As women, we bring a lot to the table. We are great organizers and multitasks. For me being a mom, you have a lot on your hands. When you're working in a store like this, you can juggle many tasks," she Customersaid. service is vital in our store, so I want to ensure everyone is comfortable when they come in. I want to bring compassion and loyalty, she said. She strives to make sure there is an equal work environment for employees.
To be a successful woman in business means to be confident in what you do and help others discover their confidence. Her advice to her fellow women in business is to be true to yourself and follow your heart. "Always do what's right for you and what makes you happy," she said.
Shiela Westbury
1050 Bells Hwy| www.acehardware.com | 843-539-3333
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14 colleton women in business | 2022 &Kami Merritt, Marketing Manager kamimerritt@lowcountry.com Tiffany Ballew, Marketing Consultant tiffany.thigpen@lowcountry.com Sales Vicki Brown, Senior vbrown@lowcountry.com Jessica O’Connor, jessica@lowcountry.com Heather Ruppe, heather@lowcountry.com Editorial Powered by The Press Wa terboroL ive Susan Hiott, Officer Manager/Bookkeeper accounting@lowcountry.com Office Manager/Bookkeeper Charlotte Norwood, publisher@lowcountry.com Publisher/CEO 1025 Bells Hwy Meet the Women of The
2022 | colleton women in business 15 & Senior Writer vbrown@lowcountry.com O’Connor, Senior Writer jessica@lowcountry.com Senior Writer heather@lowcountry.com Tammy Hiott, Circulation Manager circulation@lowcountry.com Rosemary Moore, Circulation Carrier Phillis Hill, Circulation Carrier Circulation terboro ive .com Amanda R. Mosley, Graphics, Classified/Legals pressads2@lowcountry.com & pressclass@lowcountry.com Graphics & Classified/Legals Norwood, Publisher/CEO publisher@lowcountry.com Publisher/CEO 843-549-2586 The Press & Standard
My advice to fellow businesswomen is to uplift each other and celebrate our accomplishments. Let’s build a better place for people we love and know. Challenge one another and give a pat on the back. Appreciate our diversity and celebrate what makes us passionate about our business.
Jennifer George
To be a successful businesswoman, you must believe that what you have to offer someone else is needed. Fear should never hold you back, and you must be willing to take a leap of faith. Self-confidence is a trait that every good business person should have. Continuing to learn in a profession is necessary because there will always be change.
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the love and support of my husband, Mike, and my three boys, James Michael, and Jack. I love them to the moon and back.
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1009 Bells Highway • www.clearvisionwalterboro.com • 843.549.2565
I decided to go into Opticianry as a new business venture. I believe that Opticianry chose me, and my decision has turned out to be great. I enjoy helping and talking to people. My job brings me joy. Everyone in my family wears contacts or glasses. My youngest son has been in glasses since he was nine months old. Monitoring his vision over the years has been a lifelong project for me. The more I learn, the better I can help him. I hope to bring a better quality of life to the community through better vision. I love to see the reaction on people’s faces when they try on their glasses for the first time, and the world looks clearer and brighter. Poor vision can make everyday tasks difficult. It warms my heart when I can repair a set of glasses or even change out nose pads. I feel like I have made someone’s day. It is the little things that sometimes matter the most.
DEBORAH B. KANE
Deborah Kane
112 Forest Hills Rd • (843)
Deborah Kane decided at ten years old to become an attorney. Her mother struggled financially after her divorce and told her to find a career where she would never have to depend on a man for a living. Her uncle, Auburn Bridge, was an attorney in Walterboro and she saw his success and decided that would be her goal: to become an attorney. In addition to her private practice of forty years, she also serves as associate municipal judge for DeborahWalterboro.is very passionate about her work and has handled a wide variety of cases over the years, ranging from adoptions, divorces, murder and drug cases to her true love, real estate and probate matters. She has no plans of retiring yet. Annette, her legal secretary, has been with her for thirty one years. “We try to relieve the stress that legal matters can cause our clients and my staff is an integral part of that” Deborah said.
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Real estate attoRney 549-1060
Diane N. Polk
ENTERPRISE BANK OF SOUTH CAROLINA SINCE 1920 at over years!
ebsc.bank Excellence in banking for
K. Reid Pollard, CEO of Enterprise Bank of South Carolina said it best: “Diane has a strong presence in this community, and we are very pleased to have her at Enterprise Bank of South Carolina.”
Vice President Diane N. Polk has been with Enterprise Bank of South Carolina for 27 years and has a grand total of 52 years in the banking industry. A Colleton County native, her expertise and knowledge of banking and the community have served her well throughout her professional career. She takes pride in listening to her customers and helping them with the best service and solutions to fit their needs. Her motto is to treat your customers as you would want to be treated and give recommendations from the heart. It is clear that she abides by this motto. Her career and caring nature have afforded her the opportunity to offer life-changing customer service by putting herself in her customer’s shoes while putting the client at ease.
BANK CAROLINA Visit us online
Diane served on the American Institute of Banking Board of Directors for 10 years. She graduated from the Leadership Colleton program, served as the President of the Colleton Chapter of the American Heart Association, and was a member of the Exchange Club of Colleton County. She resides in Colleton County with her husband of 47 years and love of her life, Bill Polk. When she isn’t working or serving on various church committees, Diane enjoys traveling with her husband as well as her nieces and nephews.
50
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Robin has loved helping people ever since she was a little girl and has contributed to her success in real estate by being a dedicated, ethical agent conducting business professionally.
“My motto is, ‘The Right Agent Makes All The Difference’. Carolina Homes & Land Realty, strive to give dedicated service through the entire process of buying or selling, and to help make all of our real estate clients dreams a reality.” Harrison said. Harrison invites you to call, or stop by the office and talk to one of our knowledgeable Realtors to discuss all of your real estate needs.
In 2016, Robin Harrison opened her doors to her real estate business, Carolina Homes & Land Realty, after the company she worked for as an assistant plant manager relocated to Chicago. Her real estate business has now grown to a team of seven agents.
& LAND REALTY 1229 Bells Highway • www.carolinahomesandlandrealty.net •
“I have had several mentors with whom I have had the honor of working in real estate. I am very thankful for the knowledge they shared with me,” she said.
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Robin Harrison
CAROLINA HOMES 843-539-4444 Right Agent Makes All The Difference” Angie Araneo, Rebecca Alberts, Joan Bruce, Robin Harrison Owner/BIC, Sara White, Vicki Carl. Not pictured Debbie McMillen and Monica Jones
“The
“She decided I wanted to work for myself” she said. It was the right time with her children in college. Her family was very supportive of doing this.
At her firm White says she focus on accounting and bookkeeping service for individuals and for corporate partnership tax returns. ”I want to help people with any IRS or SC Dept. of Revenue problems they have. I’ve represented my clients before,” she said. She’s also does real estate which she’s very passionate about. “Its in my blood “My family has owned construction companies and storage facilities, and I have always helped them pay their bills and mange the daily duties. My family was my biggest contributor to me going on my own.
1348 Bells Hwy. |
Renee M. White Walterboro, SC 843-538-4010
|
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Renee studied accounting at Charleston Southern University and Spartanburg Methodist College. She became an accountant to help people get on a budget and save money starting out working at Griffith Beach and Company since she graduated college in 1991.
4. They recognize the importance of work/life balance, boundaries, and self care. Women running a successful business realize that in order to fill others’ cups, their own must remain full. Sometimes this looks like learning to say “no, thank you.” Other times it looks like making sure she’s getting enough sleep. No matter what steps she takes, the successful business woman does everything possible to stay at the top of her game mentally and physically.
By: Jessica O’Connor
Five Traits of Successful Business Women
3. They realize that making sincere connections is paramount. This goes hand in hand with number two. When a successful business woman meets someone she would like to work with via her networking efforts, she takes the time to discover how the relationship can be mutually beneficial. She never goes into meeting someone with her sole goal being to unearth “what can you do for me?” Rather, she seeks to pinpoint what both parties can do to help each other succeed.
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1. They never stop learning. The most successful business women know that even when their business appears to be thriving, there’s always something new to educate themselves on. This could include topics such as the ever evolving world of social media marketing and presence, market research, or studying new ways to enhance their client experience. No matter what this learning looks like, they never become complacent.
5. They show appreciation to those that have helped them get where they are. This could mean treating employees to a bonus, or it could be as simple as thanking a family member for supporting their goals. Regardless, the successful business woman recognizes and rewards those who are a valuable part of her team.
2. They know the importance of networking. Women with successful businesses practice networking everywhere they go. You never know where you might meet your next client, star employee, or collaborative partner. Striking up a conversation in the grocery store line? Sure. Sending a quick email to extend an invitation for a coffee date to learn more about a fellow entrepreneur? She’ll do it.
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The Women of Salkehatchie
April Cone, Dean Haley Rowe, Director of Student Success Juliana Glynn, Regional Admissions Representative Juliana Glynn understands the difference that a college education can make. “UofSC Palmetto College gave me the ability to realize a dream that started 29 years ago - completing my bachelor’s degree. I was able to attend classes online and in person while working full time and handling other life tasks. As a graduate of the program, I am now in a unique position to share my experiences, build rapport and trust, and provide encouragement and support to our prospective students. USC Salkehatchie’s small campus size allows me to get to know and interact with our students.”
As a student at USC Salkehatchie, Haley Rowe took advantage of all the opportunities the university had to offer, ultimately earning four degrees from three University of South Carolina campuses. Now as director of student success, Haley encourages others to invest in themselves.
“The truth is you are never too old or too young to invest in yourself. A college degree is possible at any age and you are worth it! My community and Salkehatchie both hold special places in my heart. Working in student affairs allows me to provide students opportunities so that when they look back at their time at USC Salkehatchie they will have fond memories and become proud alumni.”
Meet three members of the USC Salkehatchie team who are dedicated to making college a reality for the citizens of the region.
April Cone, who was recently named dean of the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie, is no stranger to the campus. Cone began her tenure at USC Salkehatchie in 2010, serving in various roles in its Rural Nursing Initiative including nursing success manager, nursing academic program manager and clinical assistant professor. “The Salkehatchie region is, and always has been, my home, and my professional career is dedicated to the people of the Salkehatchie region. I am heavily invested in ensuring growth of local industries by producing a diverse and qualified workforce. USC Salkehatchie provides a vehicle for individuals to expand professional opportunities and change the trajectory of their lives and that of their families. The success of our students is the motivation for all of us at USC Salkehatchie. When our students succeed, we know we have been successful!”
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I
There is nothing more exciting and humbling than being a part of a student’s educational journey. am excited and honored to serve as a member of the talented and impressive team of individuals at USC Salkehatchie who make this journey possible for our students. “ Dr. April Cone Dean, USC Salkehatchie “
244 East Washington Street• (843) 599-7378
Becoming a Judy Blue model has allowed me to travel cross country and experience many different lifestyles. What keeps me going is knowing that my dad is looking down on me, smiling, and is proud of all my accomplishments. I strive to continue this hard work, learning, and growth to make my family proud. I look forward to what the rest of 2022 brings for the Walterboro community.
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Amelia White
Growing up around strong women who dressed their best created my love for fashion. This drive for the fashion industry has now become a constant in my life. I was forced to grow up quickly at a young age when my father passed away. The heartache this caused my family taught me that tomorrow is not promised, and we must always live life to the fullest. My mother has been a great example as a fellow business owner. She has been my number one fan.
As a model for Judy Blue, I can find the bestfitting jeans and the latest trends. I then handpick the new jeans for Abbillow. In addition, I discover other brands and get the inside scoop on the latest chic style.
As an upcoming female business owner, I am excited to have this amazing opportunity to interact with our flourishing community. As a lifelong member of The City of Walterboro, I enjoy getting to interact on a new personal level as the CEO and owner of Abbillow Clothing Company.
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Katie Godley
started baking after members of her husband’s hunting club asked her to bake a red velvet cake. From there, it turned into multiple customers. I was baking from home at the time when a gentleman asked me if I was interested in renting a location. My shop opened during the middle of the pandemic, so to keep up with changing times, Godley added a lunch menu. By doing so, she could provide a to-go option for her customers. Her lunch menu is just as famous as her cupcakes. Especially her famous hamburgers. I currently have daily lunch specials, delivery, and catering services.
1298 Snider’s Hwy • 843-538-5284
Katie Godley owns Katie’s cupcake cottage and discovered her love for baking after watching her father bake for her family. He was always experimenting with different treats. Before Godley found her passion for baking, she helped her sister take care of their mother while their father was on the road. “He was a truck driver, but when he got home, he would bake,” Godley Godleysaid.
Carole Bell
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In 2014 I suffered a medical issue that put me out of the workforce. I took this opportunity to open my own business. I wanted to give the community a healthy variety of food options while providing them excellent & friendly customer service. I feel being a woman in business is a great honor and privilege as women have become more successful over the years. My advice to my fellow women in business is to set goals and stay focused on your dreams.
Perseverance, determination, and hard work do pay off. Our loyal customers and supporters have played an integral part in my success and kept us going for the past eight years. 874 Robertson Blvd • (843) 782-4800
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|
"I'm still growing," Kristen said. In 2021 Kristen Melo won The Pleatco Perfect Pool Gal Award. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for having been selected for this honor. Melo's certifications include (NPC)National Plasterers Council certified start-up technician, Nationally certified pool chemists, BBB accredited, fully licensed, and insured. Courses under her belt are swimming pool water testing and Diatomaceous Earth Calculations. In addition, she attended Genesis Construction School, concrete pools. Preserve Pool is a member of (PHTA) Pool and Hot Tub Alliance. 543 Bells Highway, Unit B | www.theboropoolstore.com 843-494-0724
Kristen Melo, the owner-operator of Preserve Pools, is your certified and dedicated pool pro. Her company, Preserve Pools, is aptly named after a mission to protect those major backyard investments. With a second location in Summerville, Our goal is to maintain our clients' pools while educating them on pool care so that they may receive the expected life span out of their equipment.
Kristen Melo
28 colleton women in business | 2022 I have insuranceworkingbeenintheindustryformorethan16years.Ibeganmycareerfillinginatafriend’sinsurancecompanywhenshewasshort-staffed.Ihadnocluethat16yearslater,Iwouldstillbeintheinsurancefield!-MichelleHarmon,InsideSalesAgentStay true to yourself and don’t compare yourself to anyone else in any industry Make your path, work hard, and become the one that is dependable in Sherman,movescustomermoredecideprofessionwhateveryoutomoveforwardin.Now,thanever,customers/peoplewanttodobusinesswiththosetheycantrust,andexceptionalservicemountains.-SammiePersonalLinesAccountManager I truly take pride in tooftheirmyeducatingclientsoncoverages,whytheyneedcoveragestoavoidgapsandtheimportanceunderstandingthenuancesoftheirpolicies.ThereferralsthroughouttheyearsareallthecomplimentsIneedtocontinuekeepmy“client-firstmindset.”Itmeanssomuchtohelpservetheirneeds,families,andneighbors.-JenniferTiegs,CommercialLinesAccountManager After almost 18 years of being a licensed insurance agent, I continue to educate myself on day.andneedsinsurancethroughthechangingworldindustry.IlovewhatIdoevery-KayEustace,CommercialLinesAccountManager. A Walterboro Agency Since 1987 ShermanSammie Michelle Harmon EustaceKay JenniferTiegs 330 N. Lucas | www.ctlowndes.com | 843-549-6179 To be successful businesswomen means being confident, taking pride in our accomplishments, and being valued for our actions. -CT Lowndes and Company Team
