a
s p e c i a l
a dv ert i s i n g
s e c t i o n
Women in Business
P H O T O G R A P H Y
B Y
S C O T T
S M A L L I N
Grand Strand Magazine presents our inaugural Women in Business special section. The following pages feature profiles of some of our area’s most prominent businesswomen. In partnership with South State Bank, Ruth’s Chris, Marina Inn at Grande Dunes and our advertisers, Grand Strand Magazine is donating a portion of the proceeds to Caring in Our Lifetime, which provides assistance to local women suffering from breast cancer.
www.grandstrandmag.com
October-November 2014
177
Women in Business s p e c i a l
a dv ert i s i n g
Women in Business
s e c t i o n
s p e c i a l
a dv ert i s i n g
s e c t i o n
Adv ertiser in dex Michele Rappa/Berkshire Hathaway............................ 190
JPH Retreats . ................................................................ 189
Century 21 Boling.......................................................... 179
Laser MD........................................................................ 186
Century 21 Boling/Debbie Davis.................................. 184
Leonard, Call at Kingston/Robin Bailey-Miles . .......... 188
Century 21 Boling/Martha Thill.................................... 184
Lulu’s Cafe...................................................................... 187
Century 21 Boling/Marty Corley................................... 192
Marina Inn at Grande Dunes........................................ 192
CRG Construction.......................................................... 183
Miss Master.................................................................... 190
Envogue......................................................................... 192
The Mod Bod ................................................................ 189
First Financial Group..................................................... 190
Myrtle Beach Funeral Home......................................... 182
Grand Strand Magazine................................................ 193
Natasha Hanna Attorney.................................................. 182
Guild Mortgage Company............................................ 185
RE/MAX Southern Shores ..................................... 180-181
Gynecology Specialists................................................. 186
Sawgrass Pediatric Dentistry........................................ 188
Hucks Pool Company.............................................................. 193
South State Bank .................................................. 176, 191
(Top row) Penny Boling, Shelyn Lee, Martha Thill, Marty Corley, Yana Smith and Sara Boling. (Middle row) Jamye Crossingham, Debbie Davis, Traci Miles, Ansley Pegram and Kathy Brown. (Front row) Patricia Taylor and Mandy Palmer.
CENTURY 21 BOLING & ASSOCIATES 7722 N. Kings Highway Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 (843) 449-2121 www.century21boling.com Century 21 Boling & Associates began in 1986 with no staff and only five agents and now, 28 years later, the group has more than 50 agents and a full staff. “We’ve been a leader in our marketplace for more than two decades. Top Revenue Producers in one calendar year where we were awarded #5 in the Nation through Century 21 International,” says Broker in Charge Penny Boling. What services does your company offer? “We have one job only—Customer Satisfaction. Buyer or Seller. We offer to all of our clients the best personal service possible.” Tell us about your work in the community. “We are members of our churches, support our local schools, board members of the YMCA, Myrtle Beach Chamber, Rotary Clubs, American Heart Association, United Way, ALS and Cystic Fibrosis fundraisers, GSScene for Young Professionals, CCU’s Edwards Col-
178 Grand Strand
www.grandstrandmag.com
lege Board of Visitors, March of Dimes and co-chair of the Myrtle Beach Performing Art Center Committee.” What industry awards have you won? “We have consistently been awarded the Centurion Award since 1991. This award is given to companies whose commissions exceed a calculated formula with C21 Corporate. We’ve received the Top Producing Agents awards in SC and NC for the past several years. We strive to the Quality Service Award, which is awarded to agents with compliments from their customers. Century 21 Real Estate has been ranked highest in overall customer satisfaction by the J.D. Power 2014 Home Buyer/ Seller Satisfaction Study.” What do you believe sets you apart from others in your field? “We believe in our ability to do MAGIC for our customers. We’re professionally trained for today’s marketplace and meet it head on!”
October-November 2014
179
Women in Business s p e c i a l
a dv ert i s i n g
Women in Business
s e c t i o n
s p e c i a l
Kim Stevens, Cindy Senatore, Sharon Grace, Brandi Minchillo, Eileen Henriksen, Dona Lee, Annell Kirkland, Mandy Dunlap, Roz Murray. The ladies pictured are members of our luxury home sales and marketing division, and place special emphasis in their businesses and training on this niche market. Read more about them and the areas they serve by visiting LuxuryHomes-MyrtleBeach.com.
a dv ert i s i n g
s e c t i o n
Mandy Becker, Nancy Skelley, Margaret Singleton, Tatiana Sheffer, Victoria Wells, Tammi Pierce, Kim Davis, Wendy Hodges.
RE/MAX SOUTHERN SHORES www.luxuryhomes-myrtlebeach.com 2339 Hwy 17 South Garden City, SC 29576 (843) 357-0220
1107 48th Ave N, Ste 110 Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 839-0200
RE/MAX Southern Shores offers luxury home sales and marketing through The RE/MAX Collection, and also has a commercial division. Mandy Becker serves as the “Chief Executive Optimist.” What services do you offer? “We offer buyer representation, vacation and investment, oceanfront sales, new home sales and marketing, long- term rental and property management,” says Becker. Tell us about the growth of your company since its founding. “RE/ MAX Southern Shores opened its doors in 1988. I bought the company in 2010 after operating a successful office of my own since 2007. The last four years have brought three acquisitions of other real estate firms, the launch of commercial & property management divisions and a full-service luxury home sales and marketing division through The RE/ MAX Collection. RE/MAX Southern Shores captured #1
180 Grand Strand
100 Hwy 17 South North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 (843) 249-5555
market share for the first time in 2012 and has held that position ever since. In 2013, with 95 agents and three locations, the company closed more than $235,000,000 in business, more than any other real estate firm on the Grand Strand! This August, our firm listed and sold two oceanfront homes for more than $2,000,000. These were the first oceanfront homes in North Myrtle Beach to sell above $2,000,000 since 2007, and we sold both!” What do you believe sets you apart from others in your field? “Unlike other luxury or commercial real estate firms, we have affiliates in 90+ countries who exchange information and referral business and connect buyers and sellers. We are able to offer clients worldwide exposure through TheREMAXCollection.com, as well as feature our luxury listings on The Wall Street Journal’s website and the Real Estate Center
at Bank of America website. We also hire only full-time Realtors. No part-timers. No hobbyists. Our agents average 13 years experience! We hold #1 market share, but it’s not because we have the most agents. It’s because our agents are the most productive. We don’t just want satisfied clients. We want raving fans and we work hard to earn that. Our agents are so involved in the communities they serve. Every RE/MAX Southern Shores agent donates a portion of their commission from every closing to Children’s Miracle Network in honor of their client. This has resulted in more than $100,000 donated to CMN directly from our agents.” What awards or industry recognition have you received? “2009 & 2010 Outstanding Brokerage of the Year-RE/MAX Carolinas Region. 2011 Eagle Award for RE/MAX Carolinas Region. 2013 & 2014 RIS Media Power Broker Firm (Ranking
www.grandstrandmag.com
of Top 500 US Firms). 2013 & 2014 Real Trends 500 (Top 500 US Firms by Volume & Units).” Tell us about your involvement in the community. “Community involvement of the ladies pictured includes Grand Strand Humane Society, Children’s Miracle Network, CCAR Hospitality Committee, Habitat for Humanity, Beach Sweep, Leadership CCAR, Bold & Beautiful Wigs for Cancer and more.” What are your goals for the future? “Assisting more Grand Strand buyers and sellers with the high level of service and marketing that only we can offer through The RE/MAX Collection. Our clients deserve it and we’re here to serve! Equally important is continuing to grow our community service and involvement. We know that being involved and giving back to our community makes this a better place for all to live, work and invest.”
October-November 2014
181
Women in Business s p e c i a l
a dv ert i s i n g
Women in Business
s e c t i o n
s p e c i a l
a dv ert i s i n g
s e c t i o n
Natasha M. Hanna Attorney Natasha M. Hanna is a 1994 graduate of Coastal Carolina University. She received her paralegal degree in 1996 from Horry Georgetown Technical College and her Juris Doctorate in 2002 from the University of South Carolina. She specializes in litigation, criminal defense, workers comp and real estate. Tell us about your most difficult/challenging client case. “Every case is a challenge because I get very invested in my clients’ problems and I like to obtain a good resolution,” says Hanna. What do you believe sets you apart from others in your field? “We make it a comfortable experience for our clients and they leave knowing that we care about them. We are upbeat, honest and always keep clients involved and informed.” Tell us about your work in the community. Ocean View Baptist Church, CCU Board of Trustees–Trustee, SC Commission on Higher Education–Commissioner, Injured Workers Advocate Board Member. What industry awards have you won? “Personal Injury Attorney four years in a row from the Myrtle Beach Herald, Avvo Rating of Excellent.“
Robyn Pigott
Marketing Director/ Photographer
Terri Nardslico Partner
Melanie Reaves Realtor
Lindsay Bingham Interior Designer
THE LAW OFFICE OF NATASHA M. HANNA, PC 4717 Jenn Drive, Suite 102 Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 839-8002 • natasha@nhannalaw.com
Carole Hollingsworth Bowdre Co-Owner and Vice President Carole Hollingsworth Bowdre brings her background in business administration, psychology and 18 years of hospice care experience to Myrtle Beach Funeral Home. How did you decide on this career track? “With my hospice experience, working with grieving families, married to a funeral director and psychology background, I am personally rewarded and prepared to help or assist those dealing with a loss or faced with one of life’s most difficult journeys. It is not easy, but the touch of a hand, a hug, a tear or a smile can mean so much to those at this most difficult time,” says Bowdre. What services do you offer? “Myrtle Beach Funeral Home is a full-service funeral home offering cremations, traditional burials, memorials, full funeral services, military services, Jewish services, national and international shipping, prearrangements, bereavement services—all at the area’s most affordable prices. We strive to provide compassionate, meaningful, dignified services that reflect the life that was lived.” What are your goals for the future? “Help educate the adult community on the importance of preplanning, no matter what age.”
CRG Companies custom designs and builds homes along the Grand Strand and includes a real estate team that specializes in new home construction as well as general brokerage. Our design staff creates custom homes and unique model homes as well as helps clients remodel and renovate existing homes and additions. The CRG construction team builds everything from oceanfront homes to model homes to remodels. The CRG real estate team helps clients with new home construction, custom homes, lot selections, and every other type of general brokerage. Tell us about the growth of your company since its founding. “CRG began in 2010 as a two-employee company focusing on construction and design. Since then, CRG has grown into a company with three departments (construction, design,
CRG COMPANIES 541 Atlantic Avenue Unit B Garden City, SC 29576 843.651.8460 www.crgconstruction.com | www.prestonguyton.com
MYRTLE BEACH FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, INC. 4505 Highway 17 Bypass S., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 293-4505 • www.MyrtleBeachFuneralHome.com
1 81 82 2 GGr ra an nd d S St tr ra an nd d
and real estate) each with a full staff. We quickly outgrew a small office in Murrells Inlet, moved into a larger office in Garden City, and now have an office in Myrtle Beach and are in the process of building an office complex just north of the Garden City Connector. We have found amazing real estate professionals and intend to continue to grow while adding successful professionals to each of our teams.” What industry recognition have you received? “Santee Cooper named CRG Companies as a participating builder in their Smart Energy New Homes program. We are part of the Horry Georgetown Home Builders Association, National Association of Home Builders, Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development and the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce as well as other local professional groups.”
www.grandstrandmag.com
October-November 2014
183
Women in Business s p e c i a l
a dv ert i s i n g
Women in Business
s e c t i o n
s p e c i a l
a dv ert i s i n g
s e c t i o n
Debbie Davis Oceanfront Real Estate Sales Debbie Davis hails from Roanoke, Virginia. After attended Lynchburg College and Virginia Western Community College, she began selling real estate in 1976. How did you decide on this career track? “In 1975, a summer job selling property at a Virginia ski resort led me to my calling. After getting my Realtor’s license, I began working in my uncle’s Real Estate firm. Moving to Myrtle Beach seemed to be a natural fit since it was a place my family and I visited since childhood. In 1997, I began selling in the Oceanfront Division of Century 21 Boling,” says Davis. What are the latest trends in your field in which you can educate and better serve your clients? “Many people come to Myrtle Beach in search of their Oceanfront Dream Home. The market has made a tremendous come back over the last several years and oceanfront property is in more demand now than ever. It is a luxury, but one worth the investment, whether for a few years or a lifetime. There are many options which can help make this luxury surprisingly affordable.” What industry awards have you won? “As a top award-winning Realtor for more than 20 years, let me show you how to make your dream a reality!”
Erica Davis
Senior Loan Officer
GUILD MORTGAGE COMPANY 2050 Corporate Center Drive, Suite 210 Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 839-5626 www.guildmortgage.com/officers/ericadavis edavis@guildmortgage.net
CENTURY 21 BOLING & ASSOCIATES Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 (843) 446-2929 • debbiedavis@sc.rr.com
Martha Thill Realtor/Sales Associate Martha Thill is a Graduate of University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She previously worked for Chicago Title Insurance Company in Connecticut and New Jersey and as a legal secretary, and she has extensive knowledge of real estate and the closing process. If you had a motto, what would it be? “No is just no for today, it doesn’t mean no forever,” says Thill. What industry awards have you won? “I have received the Pinnacle Quality Service Award for 2012 and 2013, Centurion Award and President’s Award for 2013 from Century 21.“ What do you believe sets you apart from others in your field? “My extensive experience in working for a title company, and as a legal secretary, which allows me to anticipate issues we may have and solve them before they become deal breakers.” Tell us about your work in the community. “I am a member of the Friends of Brookgreen Gardens and a founding member of Jersey Girls, whose members are transplanted New Jersey residents who donate to several charities, including New Beginnings Monthly Food Distribution, Angel Threads, Help 4 Kids, Noah Animal Rescue, Keep Your Pets Food Bank and Hope House of Myrtle Beach.”
CENTURY 21 BOLING & ASSOCIATES 7722 N. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 work: (843) 449-2121, ext. 288 • cell: (732) 735-6736 mthill@century21boling.com
184 Grand Strand
Erica Davis received her Intensive Finance Degree from the University of South Carolina and is a Senior Loan Officer with Guild Mortgage. “It is without a doubt a family affair. My father has been in the business for more than 30 years and, still to this day, absolutely loves his job. My husband and I started in the mortgage industry right out of college and share the same passion for success and growing our business,” says Davis. What services does your company offer? “We offer a full array of products from first time homebuyer loans to Super Jumbo for the more affluent client.” What awards or industry recognition have you received? “My husband and I have been consistently in the top 5 percent of mortgage lenders in the United States. Guild Mortgage was recently named the #1 non-bank lender in Horry County after only being open less than two years!” Tell us about any involve-
www.grandstrandmag.com
ment you may have in the community. “I have two toddlers and saw the need in our community for an outlet for mothers of young children to come together, share experiences and grow. After lots of prayer and researching I came across a worldwide Christian group called Mothers of Preschoolers. It was the perfect fit! I started the Myrtle Beach chapter five years ago. I also serve on Vestry at Trinity Church and as a committee member of the Ocean Forest Cotillion. At work we also join together to help local causes. This summer we have picked MS to help raise money and awareness.” What do you believe sets you apart from others in your field? “The combined experience our team offers along with the passion for delivering to our referral partners and clients. We are a team that does not rest well. We are always striving for ways to make it an even better experience than the last.”
October-November 2014
185
Women in Business s p e c i a l
a dv ert i s i n g
Women in Business
s e c t i o n
s p e c i a l
a dv ert i s i n g
s e c t i o n
Amy King, M.D. Caroline Millan, M.D. Christine Roberts, M.D.
Misty Coan Owner
4378 Oleander Drive, Suite 6 Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 839-4996 GynecologySpecialistsMB.com Gynecology Specialists offers high-quality health care to women of all ages. Doctors King, Millan and Roberts are board certified gynecologists dedicated to giving complete, compassionate and comprehensive gynecologic care. They provide routine annual visits, minor in-office procedures and treat a vast number of gynecologic conditions through all stages of life. What are the latest trends in your field? “As office gynecologists, we strive to remain current in the latest recommendations for breast, cervical and colon cancer screening as well as the latest treatment options for various gynecologic issues. We are also passionate about educating our patients about fitness and a healthy diet.” What are your
personal goals for the future? “We emphasize preventative care and encourage healthy lifestyle changes toward overall wellness. We envision expanding to a comprehensive wellness center incorporating LaserMD services.” What is your motto? “Be the best you can be at any age. We frequently recommend our patients to read the book, Younger Next Year for Women. This book gives women the tools they need to live a healthy and fit life way past their 80s.” What sets you apart from others in your field? “We only see gynecology patients. This allows the opportunity to take more time to discuss personal issues as well as providing a serene and comfortable environment for our patients.”
LULU’S CAFE 1903 N. Ocean Boulevard Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 712-1890 LULU’S MINI MART 1903 N. Ocean Boulevard Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 LULU’S DONUTS 709 N. Ocean Boulevard Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Christine Roberts, M.D. Amy King, M.D.
4378 Oleander Drive, Suite 5 Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 448-SKIN LaserMDmb.com LaserMD Medspa offers a number of esthetic services by a comprehensive team including on-site physicians Dr. Roberts and Dr. King, a registered nurse, and two licensed estheticians. Our services include injectables such as Botox® and Juvederm®, laser hair removal, photo-rejuvenation, chemical peels and facials, VelaShape™, SmartSkin™ and Smartlipo®. We also sell skin care products such as Obagi®, SkinCeuticals®, Latisse®, and Jane Iredale® mineral makeup. Tell us about the growth on your company since its founding. “LaserMD was founded in 2006 and was one of the first Medspas in Myrtle Beach. We are excited about our continual growth as most of our clients are referred by existing clients. Our gynecology patients often become La186 Grand Strand
serMD clients and vice versa. We offer specials and loyalty discounts to our treasured longstanding clients, eliminating the need for mass marketing.” What are the latest trends in your field? “LaserMD is continuously growing to better serve our clients by staying current with the newest products and services. We are currently the only Medspa in Myrtle Beach offering SmartSkin™ CO2 micro-ablative laser resurfacing. We stand apart from other Medspas by ensuring that all injectable services are provided by the physicians along with the more advanced procedures SmartSkin™ and Smartlipo®. Furthermore, our registered nurse performs the additional laser services and coordinates all physician procedures to ensure an exceptional product.”
Misty Coan didn’t play with Barbies when she was a girl, but she loved her mini kitchen set, complete with pots and pans. “I’m not sure that I picked this career path more that it picked me,” says Coan. “I love meeting new people and the day-to-day adventures a restaurant can bring.” How did you decide on this career? “I opened Lulu’s four years ago. I’d eaten at a restaurant in Atlanta and been served a great cup of coffee with a great breakfast, very similar to something I would have made at home. It occurred to me that people might want what I was cooking. I had been in the restaurant business (Atlantic Grill, The Boathouse), but I wanted to do something fun and fantastic for breakfast.” Tell us about your businesses? “Lulu’s Cafe is a full-service restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, dinner (during the summer), coffee and cocktails. It’s a family-friendly restaurant and we
www.g w re ab ns d i ts et ar da dn rd emsas g. c. co omm
pride ourselves on the wholesome family atmosphere. Lulu’s Donuts specializes in delicious and ridiculously cute donuts. Some of our best sellers have fun toppings like Oreo, Butterfinger and Captain Crunch. The Mini Mart is such a cute place and has almost anything you could need for a day at the beach. Whether it be a Drew Brophy Boogie Board (to match the Drew Brophy mural on the side of the Cafe) or sunscreen or chips and a drink, it’s a one-stop shop.” What awards or industry recognition have you received? “We received the Tripadvisor award for 2013 and 2014, top 10 family friendly-restaurants and Budget Travel magazine’s number 1 on the Essential to Visit in Myrtle Beach.” What are your goals? “I want to be a positive influence on the people around me and to run my business with integrity and respect and enthusiasm for my customers and employees.”
D e cOe cm tb oe br e- rJ a- N n uo av re ym b2 e0 r0 92• 02 10 41 0 1X8 X7
Women in Business
Women in Business s p e c i a l
a dv ert i s i n g
s p e c i a l
s e c t i o n
a dv ert i s i n g
s e c t i o n
Ryan R. Smith, DMD Owner, Pediatric Dentist Dr. Ryan Smith graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2006 from Wofford College and earned a Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina in 2010. She pursued a two-year advance training program in Pediatric Dentistry from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. What services do you offer? “Comprehensive dental care for infants, children and adolescents (age 0 months–21 years) and individuals with special health care needs of all ages. We offer routine and preventive dental care, in-office dental treatment with use of nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, hospital dentistry at Grand Strand Regional Medical Center and limited orthodontics,” says Smith. What are the latest trends in your field on which you can serve your clients? “We are committed to providing children with safe, gentle and state-of-the art dental care. Our office is equipped with a movie theater room and televisions with Roku3 streaming devices at all dental chairs to allow children to choose from an assortment of movies and shows via Netflix. What are your professional goals? To continue serving the area as a leading pediatric dentist with up-todate technology and treatment. I also plan to have continued growth of Sawgrass Pediatric Dentistry by adding more staff members (assistants, hygienist, front reception and associate pediatric dentists) as our patient population grows along with us.”
SAWGRASS PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY, LLC 210 Village Center Blvd., Suite 130, Myrtle Beach, SC 29579 843-236-7500 www.sawgrasspediatricdentistry.com • sawgrass.pedo@gmail.com
Robin Bailey-Miles Real Estate Sales Associate Robin Bailey-Miles has been a sales associate with Leonard, Call at Kingston for 11 years. How did you decide on this career track? “I love working with people. For 16 years I owned a retail business and that experience gave me great insight into understanding and fulfilling the needs of others. When I was ready to make a change in my profession, real estate sales was the perfect fit,” says Bailey-Miles. What do you believe sets you apart from others in your field? “I am fortunate to be part of the real estate sales team at Kingston Plantation. The standard of professionalism of our sales team and the expertise of our marketing staff is unparalled. This 145-acre oceanfront resort is not only one of the best planned communities on the East Coast, it is also beautifully maintained. It gives me great pride to represent both my real estate agency and Kingston Plantation.” What are your professional goals for the future? “To continue to serve my clients with integrity and high quality service.” If you had a motto, what would it be? “Keep smiling and treat people as you would want to be treated.”
LEONARD, CALL AT KINGSTON 9770 Kings Road, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 843-449-6400 www.kpre.net • rbailey5@sc.rr.com
1 8 86 G r a n d S t r a n d
Paige Oakley-Anderson Owner/Operator/Groovy Chick in Charge
JPH RETREATS RESORT SPA MANAGEMENT/ THE MOD BOD JPH Retreats: 5335 N. Kings Highway #172 Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 213-3008 • www.jphretreats.com The Mod Bod: 5323 N. Kings Highway Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 467-BMOD • www.modbodlounge.com
Paige Oakley-Anderson has wanted to own and operate her own spa business since she was in high school. With hard work and dedication, she has made that dream come true— she is the owner of JPH Retreats Resort Spa Management and The Mod Bod~A Modern Body Lounge. What services do you offer? “The resort spa management side of the company offers a variety of massage therapies, spa facials, body scrubs, foot treatments, oceanfront cabana massages and several packages. We have the only oceanfront cabana for massages in Myrtle Beach. We are fortunate to work with three amazing resort staffs and managements that help us schedule services for resort guests. The Mod Bod has a groovy menu specializing in gourmet body treatments and second-to-none massage therapy services. All services are hand-crafted by myself and the therapists using only the finest organic creams and oils with an exclusive pairing of local fruits and vegetables for added skin benefits. We offer a huge variety of unique massage therapies, organic body
www.w g re ab ns idts et ar da dn rd ems as g. c. co omm
wraps, body polishes, seasonal spa facials and a large variety of customizable packages. I recommend the ‘Shell Yeah’ Lava Shell massage, it’s all the rage! We have private suites that host a steam shower, jacuzzi tub, art deco fireplace and private restroom. The couples’ suite is perfect for that special romantic occasion with your main squeeze and the single suite is just right for those who want to relax in their own personal sanctuary,” says Oakley-Anderson. What sets your company apart? “As far as the Mod Bod goes, being the only organic spa in Myrtle Beach separates us from the rest of the industry. We are open by appointment so we conserve energy by using less electricity and water. The Mod Bod isn’t a grand scale spa, but we pride ourselves in giving a grand scale spa experience with grand scale spa services, staying local-grown, using only natural products on the body and using only sustainable linens.” What is your motto? “The Golden Rule. Luke 6:31. ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.’ ... Always has been, and always will be.”
D e cO em c tb oe br e- rJ a- n N uo av re ym b2 e0 r0 92• 02 10 41 0 1X8 X9
Women in Business
Women in Business s p e c i a l
a dv ert i s i n g
s p e c i a l
s e c t i o n
a dv ert i s i n g
s e c t i o n
Michele Rappa Real Estate Sales Associate Michele Rappa began her real estate career as a paralegal in New York and then relocated to the Myrtle Beach area and worked in the commercial department. That’s when she realized this was a career track where she could excel and still be available to her family. What services do you offer? “When I work with Sellers, I always provide them with a market analysis to determine the fair market value of their property. I also have my own professional photographer take pictures and a virtual tour. I have several open houses for customers and local Realtors. All my listings are on social media sites, all at no charge. When I work with Buyers, I prequalify them with lenders so we know their budget,” says Rappa. What industry awards have you won? “I have received the Luxury Home Specialist, Relocation Specialist and GRI designations. I was awarded Rookie of the Year in 2000 and have consistently been a multi-million dollar producer since that time.“ Tell us about your work in the community. “I am very involved in the North Myrtle Beach Women’s Club, and we support local charities in the Myrtle Beach area.” If you had a motto, what would it be? “To live every day to the fullest and do whatever it takes to be happy. Be proud of who you are and what you have become.”
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES 7421 N. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 (843) 997-4772 BHHSmyrtlebeach.com
Geri Anderson Owner
MISS MASTER THE CHILDREN SHOPPE 6101 N. Kings Highway Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 449-1696
Geri Anderson says a 20-year banking career helped her to open the first children’s specialty store in Myrtle Beach in 1976. What services do you offer? “The best customer service is always key. We offer special orders for birthdays, first communion, family pictures and any special-request item,” says Anderson. What do you believe sets you apart from others in your field? “Being around for 38 years and loving what we do sets us apart from others. Many beautiful children have passed our way. Truly a blessing.” What is your motto: “After surviving breast cancer, I have come to realize life is truly a gift. LIVE IT WELL! Enjoy family and friends. Health is real wealth.”
1 98 06 G r a n d S t r a n d
Lauren Ray
Pictured above are 10 of the 14 branch managers leading our South State Bank locations in the Grand Strand. They are (from left) Ashley Conner, Krystle Mall, Lori Lowell, Nicole Rabon, Brittany Johnson, Angie Hackett, Angela Cottingham, Heather Bremser, Sharon Huggins and Jessica Buttles.
New Account Representative FIRST FINANCIAL GROUP 1105 48th Ave. N., Suite 108 Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 353-1991 www.FFG-LLC.com L.Ray@ffg-llc.com Lauren Ray is a graduate of East Carolina University. She has been with First Financial Group since 2009 and is licensed to sell life insurance and annuities. What services do you offer? “I offer multiple financial instruments that guarantee preservation of principle and provide the best possible return. My company offers high, competitive FDIC-insured CD and money market rates by researching and analyzing banks throughout the country,” says Ray. What do you believe sets you apart from others in your field? “I strive to provide excellent service toward each of my clients and offer them the best products on the market for their individual needs.”
SOUTH STATE BANK 4331 Robert Grissom Parkway Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 626-3546 SouthStateBank.com
This past year, South State Bank completed the largest in-state bank merger in South Carolina history, and increased its coverage area to 135 banking locations throughout North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia, including 14 locations in Horry and Georgetown counties. What services do you offer? With a dedicated team of bankers, South State Bank offers a variety of products and services for both personal banking and business banking customers, in addition to a variety of private and investment banking services through our South State Wealth division. At South State Bank, we take a personal approach to banking. We value the relationships we share with our customers and are personally invested in their success. We work with our customers to identify the products and
w w w . gwreab ns d i ts et ar da d n rd emsas g. c. co omm
services that will best fit their needs and help establish a solid financial foundation. Tell us about the growth of your company since its founding. Since we opened in 1934, South State Bank has grown from a small community bank in Orangeburg, South Carolina, to a strong regional bank rooted in the South. Over the past 80 years, the relationships we have shared with our local communities, businesses and customers have helped shaped who we are today and how we do business. What do you believe sets your company apart from others in your field? We have a long history of providing high-touch relationship banking with the strength and stability our customers have come to rely on. We continue to be a bank built on service to our customers and communities.
D e cOe cmtb oe br e- rJ a- N n uo av re ym b2 e0 r0 92•021041 0 1 X9 X 1
Women in Business
Women in Business s p e c i a l
a dv ert i s i n g
s p e c i a l
s e c t i o n
s e c t i o n
Marty Corley
Monica Hucks
Melissa C. Hucks
Associate Broker/Trainer/Manager
Manager, Chemical Division & Bookkeeper
Manager, Water Management Division
Marty Corley graduated Cum Laude from University of Texas at Austin where she played on the UT tennis team. In 1983, she moved to central Virginia to develop a 600-acre planned community and launch her real estate career. In 1997, Marty moved to the Carolina coast to continue her real estate career. She joined the Dunes Golf and Beach Club in 2000 to play both golf and tennis. What services do you offer? “I focus on residential real estate including primary, second home and income producing properties,” says Corley. What industry awards have you won? “While working in Lynchburg, Va., I served as President of the Association of Realtors and in 1994 received Realtor of the Year. Since moving to the Grand Strand, the Century 21 Quality Service Award has been the most meaningful.“ Tell us about your work in the community: “I have long supported Habitat for Humanity and have put in many hours of ‘sweat equity’ building houses. I also support the Junior Golf Foundation, American Cancer Society and Humane Society.” What are your goals? “I want to leverage my experience to train and educate agents on how best to grow their business and use my wealth of knowledge to guide my clients successfully through each transaction. The highest compliment I can receive from a client is for them to refer me to friends or family, and each year 75–80% of my business is from past client and friend referrals.”
“We have come a long way since our founding in 1963 by my grandfather, Jennings Hucks,” says Monica Hucks. “He started out building small pools for ‘mom and pop’ motels, as well as building many motels and buildings, like the Tel-Star Motel, Sea Nymph Motel and the Fountainbleau Inn. When my father, Ted, took over the business in 1980, he began focusing just on swimming pools. He built the first lazy river in South Carolina in 1980 at the Coral Beach Resort, and we just finished the largest motel water slides in Myrtle Beach at the Crown Reef Resort. Ted started our chemical division ten years ago and it has grown exponentially since then.” What sets you apart from others in your field? “We have a long history of constructing beautiful pools, supplying top-notch goods and providing excellent service. I believe that when people look for a pool builder, they look at their history and reputation. They prefer someone who’s been in the area for years, rather than a ‘fly-by-night’ builder who may leave before the warranty is over,” says Melissa. What is your motto? “Our business motto is ‘Swimming is our Business’ and that couldn’t be more fitting. When it comes to pools, we are your source for the latest products and most innovative designs.”
CENTURY 21 BOLING & ASSOCIATES 7722 N. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 (843) 655-1289 www.MyrtleBeachSand.com • mcorley@century21boling.com
Lynn Caudle
Pamela Shelley
Owner/Nail Technician
Director of Sales & Marketing
ENVOGUE SALON 9776-E Kings Road Kingston Plantation Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 (843) 449-4097 www.envoguedayspa. weebly.com
MARINA INN AT GRANDE DUNES 8121 Amalfi Place Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 (843) 913-1333 marinainnatgrandedunes.com
Envogue is a full-service salon at Kingston Plantation Marketplace offering cuts, color, perms, keratin smoothing treatments, manicures, acrylics, spa pedicures, waxing treatments, wedding updos, wedding makeup and more. Tell us about the growth of your company. “We have established an incredible loyalty with our clientele. We are experienced Stylists and Techs who have maximized our client books but are always looking for new clients,” says Caudle. Tell us about your work in the community: “I am involved with many local organizations—March of Dimes, MBHS Booster Club, Heart Association, Boy Scout Troop 801, Cub Scout Pack 850 and many other local charities.”
The Marina Inn is a full-service, four-diamond resort hotel in the beautiful Grande Dunes Resort and attracts a variety of guests, from families in the summer to couples, golfers, meetings and weddings year round. What awards have you received? “We have been recognized for our outstanding service and amenities since opening—the AAA 4-diamond award, TripAdvisor “Top 25 Hotel in the US,” TripAdvisor “Certificate of Excellence,” “Top Southern Hospitality Hotel” by Convention South Magazine, “Best In the South” hotel by Meeting Focus—all recognizing outstanding service from meeting planners. Our restaurant, “WaterScapes,” has received the Open Table “Diners Choice” award for the past two years,” says Shelley.
1 98 26 G G rr aa nn dd SS tt rr aa nn dd
a dv ert i s i n g
HUCKS POOL COMPANY 3001 Drywall Drive, Myrtle Beach, SC 2957 (843) 626-3023 • www.huckspool.com
Grand Strand Magazine is proud to present our first Women in Business special advertising section in support of local breast cancer charity Caring in Our Lifetime. Meet the Grand Strand Magazine Team (from left) Lisa Smith, account executive Lisa has 30+ years of sales experience in magazines, newspapers and radio. Marian Lynam, ad director Marian joined the Grand Strand staff in 2009. She has 30+ years of newspaper and magazine advertising experience. Tonya Carroll, ad director Tonya has been with Grand Strand Magazine since 2004 and has 22 years of experience in commercial printing and magazine sales.
GrandStrand magazine
1111 48th Ave. N., Suite 116, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 (843) 449-8640 • www.GrandStrandMag.com
www.w g re ab ns idts et ar da dn rd ems as g. c. co omm
Jody MacKenzie, publisher/editor Jody came to Grand Strand Magazine in 2010 after working for 20+ years in newspaper editorial, marketing and magazine divisions.
D e cO em c tb oe br e- rJ a- n N uo av re ym b2 e0 r0 92• 02 10 41 0 1X9 X3