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Shelly Munneke & Deb Kempema
30 years as business owners; 30 years as friends By Virginia Olson | Photo by Faith Noelle Photography
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helly Munneke and Deb Kempema believe 30 is one special number. Both women have been business owners in Rock Valley, Iowa for 30 years. Even more special, the two have been friends for 30 years. Shelly is the owner of Economy Shop – a consignment store that offers quality, brand-name clothing for the entire family. Deb owns First Impressions – a one-stop shop for decorating needs, paint, flooring, furniture and accessories. The two business owners met through the Rock Valley Chamber. It was there the friendship took hold. Looking back, both feel their longstanding friendship has been a positive for their personal and professional lives and the reason behind their business growth. “Shelly and I met as young business owners 30 years ago when we worked closely together at Chamber promotions,” says Deb. “We found we enjoyed talking to one another about our businesses and soon discovered we have such similar professional lives. Our friendship grew from there.” “Deb and I also discovered that we shared common business goals,” says Shelly. “We both had visions and ambitions and knew the other understood what that meant. We would listen to one another and offer suggestions, and it was always nice to be able to 'bounce’ ideas off one another.”
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SiouxFallsWoman.net | August/September 2021
Shelly also says their long-time friendship has always been a real morale booster. “We realized our friendship not only supported each of us from a business standpoint, but also supported each of us personally. It was Deb who reminded me of my strengths and my successes when I have felt discouraged.” Today Shelly and Deb believe this mutual support has been a key factor in both their lives. “We are true friends who have provided incentives for one another to work harder and more efficiently,” says Shelly. “Our businesses have grown and expanded. Deb is now in her 5th location and I am in my 3rd.” “Besides our business relationship, Shelly and I have a lot in common. We both have three children and both of us from Rock Valley,” says Deb. Now as 30-year business owners, Deb and Shelly offer advice to other women who own a small business encouraging them to take the risk, try new things and don’t be afraid of change. “Shelly and I realized a long time ago that surrounding ourselves with people who are a positive influence and inspire us is so important,” says Deb. “We have always been there for each other. Both of us attest that a good friend is nice to have not only for professional growth but as a personal connection as well.” n
