the
Secrets to Success
Five
years plus in
Naples
and these businesses are just getting started!
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
the LIST 49 Years
DEVOE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? For the past 49 years, DeVoe has put the value of relationships first and foremost. Whether it’s meeting a new client, serving a long-time customer, or nurturing the development of a company employee, successful relationships are our business. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? We believe we set the bar high in our commitment and investment in the community as evidenced by the relationships we have built over the years with non-profit organizations, as well as our annual DeVoe scholarship commitment to young students. WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? The genuine satisfaction of our customers with their purchase or service experience, the reward of developing long-term employees who are committed to providing excellence, and the mindfulness of attempting to do the right thing every day is our inspiration. 4100 Tamiami Trail N. | Naples, FL 239.261.1234 | devoecadillac.com
Secrets to Success 46 Years
RIDGWAY BAR AND GRILL WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? We are as hands-on now as ever. Our passion for the business, the people, and the food and wine has never been stronger. We recognize that no matter how good you are, you can always be better. Learning how to perfectly cook something is more important than having all of the latest gadgets and featuring the latest culinary trends. We stay current, but also true to our identity. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? Everything we do is intentional. Our wine lists are hand-selected and regularly updated to provide our customers with the range, quality, and value they appreciate. Everything in our kitchen and bakery is made from scratch using the best ingredients we can source. The challenge is consistency–ensuring the experience, the food, and the wine are excellent day after day, year after year. We are a hands-on, family business, and it shows. WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? The “what” is easy: we love what we do. There are challenges, of course, but we are still excited to come to work and be in the restaurant, the kitchen, the bakery, and the wine shop. The “who” is a little more abstract, but we feel really lucky that we have a closeknit group working with us, some for decades. The inspiration comes from wanting to do right by our team every day. TONY RIDGWAY & SUKIE HONEYCUTT Owners
1300 Third St. S. | Naples, FL 239.262.5500 | ridgwaybarandgrill.com
the LIST 31 Years
THE RONTO GROUP WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? The Ronto Group was founded in 1967 in Toronto, by my father, Jack Solomon. After expanding to several U.S. states, Ronto settled into the Southwest Florida market in 1986 and has been developing residential communities here ever since. Our secret to long-term success has been to build a great team of employees and empower them. Many on the Ronto team have been with us for decades. Building good relationships with financiers, suppliers, contractors, landowners, and brokers by treating them fairly and with respect has also been key. Our partners need to have confidence that we will close a deal or bring a project to fruition. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? We offer a wide range of products from very high-end condominiums to popularly priced single-family developments. We market more than other builders and developers and don’t lump all projects together, because each project has its own identity. You want to speak to that specific purchaser and that specific market. We are very opportunistic and disciplined. We take on projects because we see an opportunity that we believe in, and we know we can execute successfully. WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? My father’s persistence has inspired me all of my life. My wife inspires me every day. My employees make me want to come to work. 3066 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 201 | Naples, FL 239.649.6310 | ronto.com
ANTHONY SOLOMON Executive VP and Owner
Secrets to Success 26 Years
MORAN EDWARDS ASSET MANAGEMENT GROUP OF WELLS FARGO ADVISORS WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? We believe in a consistent, disciplined approach to managing client assets. From the beginning, we have developed diversified portfolios using quantitative analysis and fundamental research. We utilize a comprehensive team approach; our staff includes a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Professional, two CFA charterholder’s, two MBAs, and two senior portfolio managers. We strive to add value to our clients’ portfolios by capitalizing on our investment experience and doing what we believe is right, not what’s popular. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? We believe that our people and our shared values remain the core of our competitive advantage. We have 25 professional staff dedicated to serving the needs of our clients and are responsible for over $3 billion in assets as of 12/31/2016. From its start in 1990, the Moran Edwards team pioneered a fee based consultative approach to investing. We challenged conventional thinking by focusing on portfolio performance and risk management.
THOMAS M. MORAN Managing Director – Investments Senior PIM Portfolio Manager ROBERT T. EDWARDS Managing Director – Investments Senior PIM Portfolio Manager
WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? We are motivated by the desire to do well for our clients. As financial advisors, we are able to provide guidance to people about their finances, and educate them about investments and the markets. We view market dynamics with a historical perspective in mind – considering a period of decades, rather than just weeks or months. Affluent investors value our expertise in tailoring investment portfolios specific to their unique situations. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. Sponsored Advertising Content, 0117-02065
5801 Pelican Bay Boulevard | Naples, FL 239.254.2200 | MoranEdwards.com
the LIST 25 Years
AZUL COSMETIC SURGERY AND MEDICAL SPA WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? Hard work and consistent effort over time yields results. The field of cosmetic surgery continues to change and evolve at a rapid pace due to technological advances and new innovations. Staying on top of the latest advances is a challenge, but when you love what you do then it really is a labor of love. I enjoy all facets of cosmetic surgery including the application of new technology and learning new techniques. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? The great passion I have for my work. There is nothing I enjoy more than being immersed in a rejuvenation procedure whether it’s a comprehensive three-dimensional surgery of the face or a non-surgical rejuvenation in the office using injectables like Botox and fillers. Success in these procedures requires technical expertise, an artistic eye, and a passion for the work that drives you to achieve the best possible results. WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? My father was an old-school physician who always made time to listen to his patients, hear their stories, and share a laugh or often a hug when needed. His compassion was remarkable and the magic of the white coat inspired me toward a career in medicine. Although he died while I was in medical school, I believe his spirit lives on in me and he’s very much a part of the physician I am today. 1009 Crosspointe Dr. | Naples, FL 23451 Walden Center Dr. | Bonita Springs, FL 13470 Parker Commons Blvd. | Fort Myers, FL 239.415.7576 | azulbeauty.com
PATRICK FLAHARTY, M.D. Owner
Secrets to Success 25 Years
GREY OAKS COUNTRY CLUB WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? We have built a membership based on strong family values and a fun, welcoming, and friendly atmosphere. Over the past 25 years, Grey Oaks has been dedicated to making lasting relationships and has become the place where Naples’ most genuine residents can unwind and relax. As a club, we have taken special interest in providing fun and entertainment for all ages and have been successful at capturing the interests of men, women, and children alike. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? Through our strong community partnerships, we are able to deliver amenities that are second to none. Recently we invested $30 million to enhance and expand the Club’s amenity package and added a resort pool, casual dining restaurant, new children’s play area, pickleball, tennis center, and a luxurious wellness center. We have also partnered with NCH Healthcare System to provide on-site medical care in our new Immediate Care Center with membership. WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? We contribute our success to the outstanding leadership and commitment to excellence from our dedicated board of directors. Their goal has always been to provide the best experience for our current and future members. Their passion and expertise transcends generations and occupations, and we feel blessed that they have chosen to make Grey Oaks their country club home. KITSI ESTREM Director of Membership Sales
2400 Grey Oaks Drive N. | Naples, FL 239.262.5550 | greyoakscc.com
the LIST 24 Years
DEBRUYNE FINE ART WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? Since we opened our Naples gallery, we have been very consistent in offering our clients exceptional fine art at very fair and competitive prices. We have always listened carefully to our clients and have been able to discern the artwork they are looking for in their Naples home. Simultaneously, we have cultivated sources to acquire artwork on a global level. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? Our commitment to provide an unsurpassed level of service to our clients isolates the excellent from the mediocre. Our fine art acquisitions target those pieces that we can offer our clients that represent an exceptional value with superlative quality. WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? We have always been ambitious and success driven. Our inspiration comes from our own desire to excel at whatever we attempt. The financial rewards and prestige that accompany success are powerful incentives. 275 Broad Ave. S. | Naples, FL 239.262.4551 | debruynefineart.com
PAUL & SUZANNE DEBRUYNE Owners
Secrets to Success 24 Years
BUA BELL GROUP WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? Our secret is endless passion, determination, and hard work. We maintain the highest ethical standards and are always willing to go above and beyond what is expected of us. Plus, our vast knowledge of the marketplace in an ever-changing industry allows us to be proactive to trends and marketing ideas. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? What sets us apart is our background not only as agents, but as regional and office managers in real estate. We run our business like a business and are full-time professionals, so we aren’t focusing on anything else but you! You also get two superior agents for the price of one. Emily’s corporate relocation background and Tade’s extensive training and luxury accreditations are a huge asset. And, we support many local charities from every closing. WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? “My desire to help others,” says Emily. “Initially to support my children, now to educate our customers so they make the best real estate decisions for themselves. “Tade says, “As a child watching my mom (Emily K. Bua) take care of four small children by herself and always wanting to give us the most she could. She was always giving and determined to be the best at what she did with everything in life!” EMILY K. BUA & TADE BUA-BELL Owners/Realtors
3255 Tamiami Trail N. | Naples, FL 239.595.0097 | buabellsellsnaples.com
the LIST 24 Years
MARK J. LEONARDI ARCHITECT P.A. WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? I absolutely love what I do. I typically wake up every morning with thoughts of how to improve the projects we are currently working on. Renewable energy systems and new, cutting-edge materials and details are a couple areas that interest me and are considered in all of our projects. I also have a great staff that shares these same interests and attitude. Although simple in idea, it is the essence of success in our minds. Our clients understand this when they work with us. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? Process and Detail. Architecture is a collaborative process. Initially, it involves a thorough understanding of a client’s ideas and merges them with spatial, architectural concepts. The intensive collaboration of detail with colleagues, builders, and fabricators ultimately brings these concepts into focus and creates the character of the spaces we design. I believe it is the high level of commitment we give to these aspects of our profession that is unique to Naples. WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? My grandfather was a significant influence in my success. He was stricken with polio, which put him in a wheelchair before I was born. Never once did he complain about his situation and in fact, he was the most positive person in my life. As a strong Greek gentleman that never had a bad thing to say, he looked for the positive aspects of everything. My thoughts of him create clarity of what is important. 966 Sixth Ave. S. | Naples, FL 239.263.5454 | mjlarchitect.com
Secrets to Success 24 Years
MONDO UOMO FINE MENSWEAR WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? The philosophy, “if you are going to do something, do it well.” I try to seek improvement simply for the sake of improvement and to enjoy the journey towards success, rather than focusing on the destination. This is a mindset that is crucial to avoid the plateaus and pitfalls that many businessmen can fall into, as there are few fields that punish short-sightedness as harshly as retail. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? I started my business as a teenager selling shirts out of car trunk or my parents’ tailoring shop and placing value on sales and profits. But, the most rewarding part of my business has been the connections made with my customers. At Mondo Uomo, I strive to set us apart from the rest by providing customers a friendly and warm environment, a staff that shares my values, and products that meet or exceed their expectations. WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? First, my family. They are behind me 110 percent, and their confidence in me makes me strive to achieve the highest goals. Second, the community of Naples and my customers. I’ve had the privilege to meet extraordinary people who have inspired me to grow and to polish my business to the peak of my ability. I hope to reach more people than ever before, and find a success and happiness that money alone cannot achieve. ARDA BOYAR Owner
4322 Gulfshore Blvd. | Naples, FL 239.434.9484 | mondouomo.com
the LIST 20 Years
SUMMERFIELDS WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? Summerfields is celebrating 20 years in Naples this year! We work diligently to find unusual and fine home decor items. Each time customers walk into Summerfields, they are greeted with unique and inspiring surroundings. Our shop is always changing and is full of home, garden, and gift items. We aim to carry boutique and luxury items you won’t find elsewhere. We always enjoy getting to know our customers and seeing them return year after year. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? As a mother-daughter team with over 40 years of combined experience, we blend our tastes from years of traveling and working together. As a specialty home store, merchandise is carefully selected with exceptional design and quality in mind. Stacey runs the shop with passion, and if you can’t find what you are looking for, chances are she can help you find it. WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? Stacey: My grandfather and my parents. My grandfather owned his own business in Mequon, Wisconsin, and taught me to win gracefully. My parents both have creative professions. My father is an architect and my mother is an interior designer. From a young age they engaged my love for interesting & beautiful things. Shari: Rosemary Robinson, my first employer, was an incredible influence. Mrs. R had impeccable taste and was a very talented interior designer. 953 Central Ave. | Naples, FL 239.430.2505 | summerfieldsnaples.com
SHARI SUMMERS, ASID STACEY SUMMERS
Secrets to Success 20 Years
THE GLENVIEW AT PELICAN BAY WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? As Naples’ premier senior living community for over 20 years, we contribute our success to also being the only resident-owned co-op in the state. While we’re managed by the prestigious Life Care Services™, our board of directors is solely comprised of residents who have a vested interest in our continued success. If the community is at its best, the property values go up. That’s why we all work together to be the best. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? Along with the pride Glenview residents have in owning our community, we also take great delight in how truly active and fun we are as a neighborhood. From both community and private social functions to having exclusive access to Pelican Bay’s private beach, there’s a lot to be had here. We also offer resort-style amenities and five-star healthcare services, which are important to those seeking a complete senior living lifestyle. WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? In the words of Vicki Tracy, our sales and marketing director, “We are, and have always been, a game changer in Naples. And we get a charge out of doing what it takes to stay that way.” It all comes back to being the best, and only, resident-owned community. Knowing that, anyone looking to invest wisely in an exciting and well-deserved retirement future should look no further than The Glenview at Pelican Bay. VICKI TRACY Director of Sales and Marketing
100 Glenview Place | Naples, FL 888.581.8105 | glenviewnaples.com
the LIST 15 Years
BAYVIEW DENTAL ARTS WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? Surrounding myself with the best professionals in the business! Drs. Hedgepath and Carrigan are truly exceptional specialists who have had long and successful careers. They remain at the pinnacle of their profession continually advancing their knowledge and skills. Moreover, I am blessed to have the most wonderful, caring and talented staff that exists. From our talented hygienists, assistants to the business staff, they all represent a degree of professionalism that is seldom achieved in the health care setting. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? The fact that I actually enjoy the business aspect of dentistry. Most dentists hate this part of the profession. The older I get the more I enjoy refining our patient experience. When new patients first experience BayView Dental Arts, I invariably receive tremendous compliments about their “experience” being unlike any other they have previously encountered. From being greeted by our valet, to the entire professional encounter attention to detail is paramount. We pride ourselves on patient education and prevention. Everything is explained in great detail with accompanying high definition photographs, radiographs, and transillumiation. WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? My parents both emphasized the importance of education. My father was in the construction business and in high school I wanted to follow in his footsteps. He however, would not allow it, always repeating his mantra, “You are going to be a doctor or a lawyer.” So I became a dentist and a lawyer. After dental school, I specialized in prosthodontics and then obtained my law degree. Going through 14 years of higher education and then passing two bar examinations (Pennsylvania and Florida) and then two dental boards (Pennsylvania and Florida) allowed me to fully understand the commitment and determination needed to succeed at the highest levels.. 1001 10th Ave. S., Suite 218 | Naples, FL 239.434.0139 | bayviewdentalarts.com
EDWARD SCHERDER, DMD, JD
Secrets to Success 11 Years
SWEET SHELDON CONSTRUCTION WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? For more than a decade, Sweet Sheldon Construction has been providing customers exactly what they want -- building excellence that achieves the personal vision for each home and condo that is transformed. Integrity and honesty is always at the forefront of everything we do. We are successful because we place the customer in the center and work to provide an outcome that focuses on the details of each and every space that is transformed. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? Sweet Sheldon Construction is an award-winning remodeler specializing in Southwest Florida’s unique building environment. Our years of experience bring benefits to our clients that they cannot get elsewhere. Our knowledge allows us to work every aspect of your project, without missing a beat. We focus on the smallest details and the highest level of quality, while maximizing outcomes. Customer satisfaction is our number one priority. Our team, from start to finish, is dedicated to doing what is right. WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? Each and every customer we work with inspires us to be the best. We understand that the place where we work is our customer’s home, and we treat it that way. There is a unique vision for each of our projects, and our motivation is to achieve that vision and bring to life something that makes our customers proud. That moment when you see a final project and a happy customer is our ultimate goal. JOHN SWEET Principal
999 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 200 | Naples, FL 239.325.5150 | sweetsheldon.com
the LIST 8 Years
TARA GRINNA SWIMWEAR WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? The secret to our success has been our determination to provide a top-quality swimsuit with the best fit in the industry, as well as making our swimsuits exclusivley in the U.S. when almost every other brand went overseas. For a time, our swimwear was the only brand offered in a bra-sized separates format, and we continue to be considered an innovator of the designer swim separates category. WHAT QUALITY SETS YOU APART FROM OTHERS IN YOUR FIELD? What sets us apart from the competition is our knowledge of the female form and how to fit a real woman in a swimsuit. And not just any swimsuit, but a suit made from designer fabric printed by the best artisans in Italy and made in the U.S. with coordinating cover-up options, resort wear, and even accessories like sandals and totes. Most women consider themselves hard to fit. Those women are our specialty! WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? The swimwear industry as a whole. As long as we strive to offer what is needed, then I believe we will continue to be successful. After all, our little design house was voted by retailers in the U.S. and Canada as a top swimwear brand for 2015—truly a feat when you consider the size of our company and all the competition out there who have followed in our footsteps and now offer bra-sized separates! 26795 South Bay Drive, Suite 162 | Bonita Springs, FL 239.992.4808 | taragrinna-swimwear.com
SUSAN TIGWELL Owner
9 8 Years
HEIDI EASTMAN Manager
50 Years
THIRD STREET SOUTH
BETH MONE CHILDREN’S SHOPPE
WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? Third Street South is unique in Naples for the history it represents, the beauty of the architecture, fountains and gardens, the engaging shops and award-winning restaurants, and the overall feel of strolling the streets and avenues of Old Naples. With the motto “glamour and good times since the 1930s,” Third Street South is a destination for locals and visitors alike looking for the best that Naples has to offer.
WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? We make people happy. We provide quality products and customer satisfaction. Our employees are loyal and dedicated. We strive to make Beth Moné a fun place to work and a fun place to shop. People love our classic look and sense of timeless design. Our clientele is multi-generational. We’ve dressed the children and grandchildren of Neapolitans for 50 years. Parents come in with children and remind us we dressed them when they were kids.
WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? Third Street South consistently strives to deliver an experience of excellence for visitors, honoring the legacy and vision of its earliest founders. As the birthplace of Naples, Third Street South continues to serve an important role in the development and growth of Naples, drawing on its history, but also continually evolving to meet current interests, and always maintaining a focus on the grace and charm that define the area.
WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? I grew up on a farm, and my mother taught me to sew. I worked parttime at a children’s shop and fell in love with the business. In the mid ‘80s, I bought Beth Moné. Bob Eiseman of Florence Eiseman was a great inspiration. He would come to Naples and sit in our store just to watch and listen to our customers. Also, my father-in-law who taught me money management is “just another zero.”
1207 Third St. S. | Naples, FL 239.261.8936 | thirdstreetsouth.com
1301 Third St. S. | Naples, FL 239.261.3447 | bethmone.com
ADAM SCHMITT Owner
49 Years
NAPLES LAMP SHOP WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? Since 1968, Naples Lamp Shop has served as the go-to design source for lighting and home furnishings. Our goal is to provide options that are up to date with today’s trends and will withstand the test of time. NLS provides outstanding customer service. We work with our clients on projects they may have in other areas of the country and world. Our professionals provide guidance on sizing and the optimal amount of light available.
48 Years
SCHMITT FAMILY JEWELER WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? The secret to our three generations of success is not a secret at all—it is a family value that was instilled in me by my father, just as it was in him by his father. That family value is intregrity. Our customers entrust us with providing and caring for some of their most valuable and sentimental items. There can be no question these are handled, repaired, and returned in the best ways possible.
WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? Our biggest inspiration comes from the ever-changing design world. It is exciting to see the trends in design and the advancement in lighting and to share them with our clients to create beautiful spaces for them. We have great customers who quickly become part of our NLS family!
WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? My customers inspire me. Over the course of almost a half of a century in our same location on Fifth Avenue in the heart of Old Naples, we’ve seen many changes. However, when you see customers return again and again, when you provide engagement rings to their sons and grandsons, when you repair an heirloom, vintage watch you originally sold new back in 1971, these experiences provide constancy and inspiration in ever-changing times.
4010 Tamiami Trail | Naples, FL 239.262.1524 | napleslampshoponline.com
765 Fifth Ave. S. | Naples, FL 239.262-4251 | schmittfinejeweler.com
LEE McCARTHY President
KIM COLLINS, ASID Vice President
30 Years
MAD TRAVEL / TRAVEL LEADERS
SHERRI DUPONT, ASID President
30 Years
COLLINS & DUPONT DESIGN GROUP
WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? The travel industry has changed dramatically over the past several years, but the one thing that has always remained consistent is the professional, personal customer service found at MAD Travel. We strive to exceed the highest standards of customer service and consistently follow procedures to make sure all clients receive that level of service. We make sure the smallest details are well in hand so our clients know we’re there for them at all times.
WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? Our success stems from a mutual desire to create timeless designs that truly reflect our clients’ lifestyles while maintaining an unwavering commitment to unparalleled customer service. We are passionate about exceeding our clients’ expectations long after the finishing touches are in place.
WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? Our clients inspire us and keep us motivated to find ways to improve so we can better serve them. There’s nothing that makes me feel more successful in my career than to know I played a small part in helping someone create lasting memories on a trip. Whether it’s finding the perfect tour guide in Bhutan or securing an exit-row seat on a business flight, I’m happy knowing my clients were well taken care of.
WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? Our inspiration comes from the satisfaction of knowing that through our core values of honesty, integrity, and putting our clients’ needs first always, we cannot fail to succeed. Reputation is everything in our industry. We will do whatever it takes to ensure that our clients’ experience with Collins & DuPont Design Group is a complete “wow” from start to finish.
36 Ninth St. S., Suite 3 | Naples, FL 239.263.4433 or 800.925.7476 | madtravel.com
8911 Brighton Lane | Bonita Springs, FL 239.948.2400 | collins-dupont.com
JENNY GEZELLA President
25 Years
NAPLES PRINCESS
PHILIP DOUGLAS & CO. SALON-SPA
WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? We pride ourselves in the fact that we have a beautiful 105- foot, three-level yacht that is maintained to look like new. We are able to accommodate public and private passengers of all ages and interests. Our team completes the experience with their service and quality food and drinks. Our crew truly believes in making everyone’s experience one to remember, and we are proud that a few have been with us since our inception.
WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? Perseverance and creativity. I am constantly finding inspiration to continue my business’ creative journey. For me, discovering new methods or ideas come from people, history, art, travel, reading, and modern technology. Our world is constantly changing and growing, and I feel the need to be aware of newness to grow, create, and persevere ahead. A key element is patience; nothing comes without work and effort. Success takes time, patience, and perseverance to succeed.
WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? Noel Jordan. Noel was the founder of Skipperliner, the company that built the boat. He knows the business inside and out, and as he likes to always say, “I love this business!” Over the years he developed boats to meet the changing demands and trends of the industry and was the largest manufacturer of boats this size. He believes and breathes this business and planted us in the most beautiful and supporting city!
WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? Doug Olsen is my second set of eyes and ears; he’s the most sensitive listener. Doug amazes me by predicting new concepts and fashion trends well in advance. His instinct is always on target, and he constantly encourages me to look to the future in business, fashion, and creativity. We married in 2013 at the Peninsula Hotel Beverly Hills’ rooftop garden, surrounded by close, talented friends who also inspire me.
550 Port O Call Way | Naples, FL 239.649.2275 | naplesprincesscruises.com
2118 Tamiami Trail N. | Naples, FL 239.643.0233 | philipdouglas.com
25 Years
BETH VOGELSANG Esquire
7 Years with
NORMAN R. BLOXHAM Owner/CEO
HENDERSON, FRANKLIN, STARNES & HOLT, P.A.
LUXURY HOME SOLUTIONS
WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? The divorce and family law practice is wrought with much emotion and angst. I do my best to keep things calm and professional, and help my clients weigh the costs and benefits of their decisions throughout the process. Lawyers who can be compassionate, empathetic, and view issues as their clients do develop trust and stronger relationships. As such, I am able to understand their goals, fears, and needs and be an effective advocate for them.
WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONG TERM SUCCESS? Customer satisfaction is the answer. Hard work, doing things properly, and providing quality products for our customers has led to repeat business and contribute to our long-term success. We lead by example to be successful in the building industry and our local community. Another part of the secret to Luxury Home Solutions’ success is our amazing team. If you employ and surround yourself with the best people, you’re going to succeed.
WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? Throughout my 32 years of practicing law, whenever I can use my skills and experience to help my clients through what is often the worst time of their life inspires me. Unfortunately, the grief in losing the trust and companionship of a spouse is sometimes more painful than losing a spouse by death. It is gratifying to see the transformation that many of my clients make after their divorce is over, especially when they learn to accept and embrace a new beginning.
WHO OR WHAT HAS INSPIRED YOU TO SUCCEED? Being able to fulfill a homeowner’s dreams and aspirations is my greatest inspiration and always has been for the last 37 years. Each and every customer brings with them their own unique desires and needs, which inspire me to deliver the perfect home for them. I’ve also studied failed companies, analyzed where they went wrong, and used that knowledge as a tool to make improvements. Total customer satisfaction is our ultimate goal.
Bonita Bay Executive Center I 3451 Bonita Bay Blvd., Suite 206 | Bonita Springs, FL 239.344.1302 | henlaw.com
Corporate: 12244 Treeline Ave. Suite 7 | Fort Myers, FL By Appointment Only Fifth Ave. S. | Naples, FL 239.728.2143 | mylhs.com
6 Years