Women Owned Businesses

AM Redesign

Ghent, Columbia

755.2846

Owner: Amy Keyser
Describe your business: AM Redesign specializes in one day room makeovers. I redesign a client’s room using what they already have (furniture, art, accessories) to create a beautiful and harmonious living space. I also offer Staging services, which is preparing a home to sell more quickly and for a better price. Potential buyers should be able to imagine themselves living in the home. Redesign is about the owner feeling better about their living space by using their existing furnishing, while Staging is all about enhancing a house’s salability.
How long have you been in business? One year.
I have had a passion for decorating for as long as I can remember. Before deciding to tap into this talent professionally, I was always moving furniture, changing window treatments, and changing the color of my pillows at home to meet the needs of the seasons. Ten years ago, while still raising four children at home, I decided to start making and selling window treatments.
What made you decide to start this type of business? My interest in interior design emanated from my window treatment business. I found that many of my customers wanted advice in such areas as furniture placement, color, lighting, etc. To meet this demand, I decided to expand my knowledge by attending the School of Interior Redesign to become an Interior Redesign Industry Specialist (IRIS). With my children now grown, I am able to devote much more of my time and energy to my new profession.
The field of interior redesign is growing rapidly, as can be seen with the rise in popularity of shows such as HGTV’s Decorating Cents
Who has been your biggest supporter? My biggest supporter would be my husband David. He has provided emotional and financial support during the different stages of this venture, and he truly believes in me.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? Read The E Myth Revisited by Michail E. Gerber. He explains why most small businesses don’t succeed and what you need to do about it.
Hours: Please contact me at your convenience.

Bark Avenue Salon and Boutique for Pets

810 State Route 50, Burnt Hills

399.738; www.barkavenueforpets.com

Owner: Tami J. Adams
Describe your business: Bark Avenue is a beautiful, clean, safe salon and pet boutique. We have a talented, highly skilled staff capable of grooming all breeds of dogs and cats to any specification, including breed standard. We are a caring group and pride ourselves on our ability to safely groom animals of all ages and behavior types.
Our boutique is full of unique, exclusive and holistic feeds, treats, supplements, gifts, toys and apparel. We offer chemical–free alternatives of many commonly used pet products, such as shampoos and flea control. We also offer gifts created by local artisans and remedies for common problems like skin andear irritations.
How long have you been in business? 7 years.
What made you decide to start this type of business? Having been in grooming for 15 years, I knew I could create a pet grooming business that would address people’s specific desires and concerns. I have alwaysloved animals and could not think of anythingI would rather do than spend my day with them and aiding in their care.
Who has been your biggest supporter? My family has always supported me in my venture, but I could not have made it as far as I have without the consistent support and guidance of my friend and mentor, Beth McElroy of Dog Day Aftergroom in Monroe, NY.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? Persue what you are passionate about. Also, be grateful for support, but have faith in yourself and your abilities. There is inherent risk in all business ventures, so you will need great personal resolve to see it to fruition. Don’t be afraid of failure. Like everything else in life, starting a business is a learning experience. The only failure is toignore the lessons gleaned from your efforts.
Hours: Monday 7am-5pm; Tuesday 8am-5pm; Wednesday & Saturday 9am-5pm; Thursday 7am-5pm; Friday 8am-5pm (evening appointments both days at 6pm).

Bella Maternity

22 Clifton Country Road, Clifton Park

383.0103; www.bella-maternity.com

Owner: Colleen Pausley, mom of Anna, 2 1/2 and baby number two is on the way!
Describe your business: At Bella Maternity we understand that although your body may be changing shape and size, your style and individuality shouldn’t have to. We carry trendy maternity fashions from jeansand career wear to elegant, sexydresses for an evening out. Wecarrynursing bras and tops as well as breast pumps and accessories. We also carry diaper bags, Hotslings, Bebe au Lait Nursing Covers and other great gift items for mom-to-be, new moms and baby!
How long have you been in business? Seven months.
What made you decide to start this type of business? After havingbeen pregnant with my daughterand finding myself frustrated with the lack of maternity clothes available in the area, I decided to open a store myself. There is definitely a need, especially for working moms. We all want to look great and wear cool clothes. Why should that change when you’re pregnant?
Who has been your biggest supporter? My husband Kevin, my family and friends. They all pitched in to help get the store open in one way or another.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? Do your research and plan, plan, plan! Leave enough flexibility in your plan to allow for mistakes (they will happen) as well as other things that come up that you can’t control. Ask as many questions in every situation as possible. Listen to your gutand don’t let anyone talk you into something that you are unsure of. Work as hard when things are going well as you need to whenthey are not.
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm; Sunday 12pm-5pm.

Certified Framing & Gallery

475 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville

438.9471; certifiedframing.com

Owner: Jill Baucom
Describe your business: We are a fine custom framing gallery that specializes in residential and commercial and executing them within a given budget. We have a unique blend of high-end 22kt gold frames, very unique creative frames and standard economy frames. We specialize in creative problem solving, French painted matting and fabric/textile framing. We carry a wide selection of originals and limited–edition prints by artists such as Edward Gordon, Eng Tay, Ted Jeremenko and local artist Robin Guthridge. We also carry a variety of home décor such as occasional farmhouse furniture, Simon Pearce glassware, handmade jewelry and more.
How long have you been in business? 15 years, 25 years total experience. I am certified by the Professional Picture Framing Association.
What made you decide to start this type of business? I have been running an art gallery since 1982. It’s all I’ve ever loved to do.
Who has been your biggest supporter? My father showed me how to open the business and my family and friends encouraged me to stay in business. Without them I would not be here today.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? Don’t give up, work really hard and do not hesitate to ask for or seek out help. I found people to be incredibly generous with their time and advice and I am extremely grateful for it. If I can do it, anyone can; it really is a fun and rewarding ride.
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm; Thursday 9am-8pm; Saturday 9am-4pm.

Collar City Clay Guild

Troy

www.collarcityclayguild.com

Owners: The guild is an association of regional potters and clay artists, based in Troy. Members, now numbering 60+, are individual entrepreneurs, who manage their own businesses.
Describe your business: CCCG’s main purpose includes the sharing of techniques, ideas and business concerns.Clay artists are able to share their resources through classes, workshops, lectures, exhibits and informal gatherings.The Guild has hosted several nationally known artists for workshops such as, Phil Rodgers, Gay Smith and Jeff Zamek.
How long have you been in business? Four years.
What made you decide to start this type of business?Working with clay can be a solitary pursuit,therefore, the guild was created as a community of clay artists in this area.
Who has been your biggest supporter? Without the great support of the local community, our fundraisers, shows and sales events would not be successful.CCCG’s main fundraiser is the EMPTY Bowl Event each October at the Italian Community Center, Troy. All proceeds go to the Troy area Food Pantries.This past year’s event raised $24,000.
WMHT Public Television Station recently chose us as “ the featured artist” for their TV and Online Auction.WMHT is also our media sponsor for the Pottery Fest on May 3rd and 4th, at the Shaker Heritage Site, Colonie,where 47 potters will be exhibiting.CCCG has alsobeen regular participants at Troy’s Riverfest in June and The Victorian Stroll in December.
What advice would you give to women who want to pursue their own business? Seekout a network of others withsimilar desires and like-minded pursuits for support, advice and networking. Camaraderie, expertise and assistance are invaluable.
Hours: The Guild does not have regular hours, but events are kept up-to-date at www.collarcityclayguild.com.Meetings are held on the fourth Sunday of each month. Venues change depending on the activity; however, through the graciousness of Dennis Smith and Barbara Reeley, many events are held at the Northeast Ceramics facility in Troy.

Complexions Spa for Beauty & Wellness

221 Wolf Road, Albany

489.5231; www.complexions.com

Owner: Denise Dubois
Describe your business:Complexions is a Destination Day “Green Spa”. Throughout the years our menu of services has changed and grown to include traditional spa services like facials, massage and hair styling to various tribal, ritual experiences from around the world such as: Shirodara, Hot Poultice Thia Massage, Ki Chi So Herbology, Lomi Lomi massage and more.We also offer clinically advanced skin treatments including laser for hair reduction, photo rejuvenation and acne. We have a team of professionals with years of experience in each of their specialties.Our mission is to create a memorable spa experience.
How long have you been in business:Over 20 years.
What made you decide to start this type of business? Twenty years ago in New York, you didn’t need an aesthetician’s license to perform proper skin care, so I found an aesthetic school in Boston and completed my initial training there.When I came back to Albany I worked for a few places, but there really wasn’t a skin care center like I envisioned for myself.So I got my first business loan to open Complexions Professional Skin Care.As the industry evolved, we expanded several times and grew into Complexions Spa for Beauty & Wellness.
Who has been your biggest supporter?My father.He has always been, and continues to be, a very hard worker. He is very dedicated to doing a job right the first time.I’ve made a few mistakes over the years which he has always encouraged me through. I appreciate his advice and have learned from his experience.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? Have a plan and a budget. I like to map out my year in advance.We have monthly goals and measure them.When we review the results, and where things stand, we are then able to decide how to continue.It is amazing that by simply having a plan, you have more control than you think, over your own growth.
Hours:Sunday 10am-4pm; Monday 9am-6pm; Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 8:30am-9pm; Friday 8:30am-6pm; Saturday 8am-5pm.

DeAnna’s

Rt. 43, West Sand Lake

283.6252

Owner: Dianne Kelder
Describe your business: We have taken an old barn built in 1912 and turned it into a beautiful gift and clothing boutique. We sell baby gifts, candles, stuffed animals, fragrances, over 70 types of homemade chocolates, gourmet foods, home décor, jewelry, Brighton products, unique clothing and much more. Three years ago we built an addition which allowed us to add a unique bridal boutique that is open by appointment. We provide one-on-one attention and care to help you prepare for those special occasions in your lives.
How long have you been in business? Over 22 years.
What made you decide to start this type of business? I always wanted to open a fine gift shop and envisioned adding a clothing boutique eventually, as the business grew.
Who has been your biggest supporter? I have been supported by many people. First, by my loyal customers who make special trips to shop in a destination store for that special gift or beautiful outfit. Also, at a young age my parents encouraged me to follow my dreams. They said if you want something bad enough, there is nothing you can’t do if you are willing to work hard. The world is yours! It was difficult when I first opened. There were no loans for women-owned businesses unless you had collateral, which at age 21, was not an option for me. So I sold my car and borrowed some money from a friend. It was tough, but well worth it.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? The best advice I can give anyone is to do what you love and it won’t seem like work. Give it your heart and treat everyone like you want to be treated, everyday! I enjoy people and love what I do. I am fortunate to make a living at it.
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 12pm-5pm. Holiday hours for December.

East Greenbush Window Coverings

145 Old Red Mill Road, Rensselaer

477.9025; egwc@nycap.rr.com

Owner: Lorraine Greaney
Describe your business: We specialize in custom window treatments and residential interior design.We service the Capital Region south to the Berkshires and Columbia County and north to Lake George.
We also offer room planning, color consultations and reupholstering services.Window treatments continue to be the focus of our business including Silhouette shades,cellular shades, wood blinds, verticals and motorized shades by Hunter Douglas and Graber and many other well known names. I handle all the commercial and motorization products.Motorization is a new, and surprisingly affordable, alternative to manual operated window treatments.It is for anyone in the market for high-tech ease and sophistication.
Interior Design Services are offered by Sue Kirsch, who holds a degree in interior design and has eight years experience in the Capital District. Her expertise in the furniture industry and new home construction brings a wealth of knowledge and experience.
Also on staff is Olga Vilensky, who graduated from Sage College in Albany with a degree in Interior Design.She previously worked for Calico Corners in Colonie and specializes in custom bedding, window treatments and upholstery.
How long have you been in business? 11 years.
What made you decide to start this type of business? I started this business after finding a need for custom window treatments in the East Greenbush area.The business expanded to a storefront, then later working out of a design studio. The business will soon be moving to Columbia Turnpike to a new and exciting showroom and design studio.
As a woman owned business, East Greenbush Window Coverings has completed numerous commercialinstallations throughNYS Offices, as well as numerous local prominent companies such as RPI, Albany Molecular and MSE PowerSystems.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? Network, network, network.The more people you know professionally and personally, the more referrals will work to keep your business profitable.
Hours: 9am-5pm, Saturday’s by appointment.

Fusco Personnel, Inc.

4 Executive Park Drive, Albany

869.6100; www.fuscopersonnel.net

Owner: Patricia Fusco, president
Describe your business: A staffing agency specializing in temp, temp-to-hire and direct hire placement. I have a very qualified staff that I work with that manages things without my presence. I work from one of our two locations, from home or whenever I am traveling.
How long have you been in business? 14 years.
What made you decide to start this type of business? I had experience in this industry and decided to go into business for myself to allow myself the flexibility with my young children.
Who has been your biggest supporter? My family.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? From my own experience, going for your dreams is great!Everyday is an adventure. Keep pushing forward and realize that tomorrow is another day and you can make it work!Juggling is key.Hard work and honesty are very important, as is being able to control your growth.
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm.

Ines Beauty Salon

342 Delaware Avenue, Albany

478.0174; www.inesbeautysalon.com

Owner: Amra Bartula
Describe your business: We have five highly-trained stylists who provide customers with any type of cut and/or color they request. We are always happy to suggest a flattering new style or color. We welcome men, women and children and take pride in satisfying our customers. We want clients to look like they paid “top dollar” even though our rates are very reasonable.
How long have you been in business? Five years.
What made you decide to start this type of business? We wanted a salon that offered the latest trends from Europe. We trained there and decided it would be a good family business in America.
Who has been your biggest supporter? Our customers have always been our biggest supporters. They tell their friends and family about us. We feel their endorsement says a lot about us.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? Believe in yourself and go for it. Women can do it all.
Hours: Tuesday–Friday 9am–7pm; Saturday 9am–4pm; Sunday 9am-2pm.

Kerker & Gleeson, P.C. Attorneys at Law

286 Washington Avenue Extension – Suite 201

456.4300; kglaw.1@netzero.com

Owners: Valerie Kerker, Esq. and Kathleen A. Gleeson. Esq.
Describe your business: Kerker & Gleeson P.C. is a law firm limited to family law matters, including divorce, legal separation, custody and child support issues. With 37 years of combined experience, we recognize that our clients come to us at a time when their lives are in turmoil and strive to assist them in resolving their disputes without the animosity generated by court battles. We also recognize that they often need to become financially stable before they can even start the process of addressing their marital or partnership disputes, and work with the client towards this end.
How long have you been in business? Valerie was admitted to the New York State Bar in 1984 and Kathleen in 1995. In 2005, after working together for 10 years, we formed Kerker & Gleeson P.C. as partners. In 2003, we formed Family Mediation Services to provide a non-adversarial and cost-effective avenue for participants to resolve their disputes.
What made you decide to start this type of business? We decided to concentrate on divorce, separation and family law issues because this is an intense and troubled time for couples, and we feel we make a big difference in the lives of our clients by showing that we understand their situation. We make a dedicated commitment to advocating for them and their children, and to getting them through a difficult process with dignity and respect. We bring many years of experience to each client’s dilemma, and work with them to reach a resolution.
Who has been your biggest supporter? Our clients are our largest referral source, referring their friends and family members. We also receive referrals from other members of the legal profession and from mental health professionals.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? Connect with an established professional who can guide you through the various aspects of the business. A
mentor is your best way to avoid mistakes and become a successful business woman.

Lucie Capek, MD Plastic Surgery

713 Troy-Schenectady Road, Suite 308, Latham

786.1700; www.capekplasticsurgery.com

Owner: Dr. Lucie Capek
Describe your business: We are a plastic surgery practice specializing in cosmetic surgery and minimally invasive cosmetic treatments. Dr. Capek is a Plastic Surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. She personally evaluates and treats every patient seeking cosmetic surgery and does many of the minimally invasive treatments herself, such as Botox and facial fillers (Restylane, Juvéderm, Radiesse, Artefill).
We offer a full spectrum of laser treatments through our Laser Center, including many treatments not available elsewhere in the Capital District. Skin Care and Aesthetic Services are provided by a NYS Board-certified Aesthetician.
Dr. Capek can address all of your cosmetic concerns with medical expertise and artistic sensibility based on years of specialized training, practice and an eye for natural, beautiful results.
How long have you been in business? 8 years in solo practice; nearly 12 years practicing in the Capital District.
What made you decide to start this type of business? The demand for services and the rewards of providing them. Many people have physical concerns that impact negatively on their self-esteem. Plastic surgery and all the cosmetic medicine that goes with it can address so many of these problems and patients’ quality of life is greatly improved. It is very rewarding being a “quality of life” surgeon.
Who has been your biggest supporter? Our greatest supporters have unequivocally been our patients. Their trust in our care, loyalty and recommendations are the key to our success.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? As with all successful life pursuits, you must believe in and love what you do. This passion and commitment keeps you going through ups and downs and is noticed and appreciated by your clients. Also, hire the best possible people you can find to help you and reward them for their efforts. Let them share in your success. Finally, treat your clients or customers with respect and honesty.
Hours: Monday-Wednesday 9am-4:30pm; Thursday 9am-6pm; Friday 9am-2:30pm.

SalonAndSpaPromotions.com

Owners: Penelope Cioffi and Karyn Riggione
Describe your business: SalonAndSpaPromotions.com offers first-time and existing clients of our Member salons and spas the highest quality services at phenomenal introductory savings available only through our program. You simply log on, select one of our elite Member salons or spas, purchase a Passport and receive the entire Passport menu of services at 50% off to save hundreds of dollars. Savings Passports are also available at Member locations.
The SalonAndSpaPromotions.com mission has a dual focus—grow the business of our Member salons and spas and introduce the public to premium services at great savings.
We drive clients into our Members’ doors through branding and in-salon marketing. Our branding includes a targeted advertising campaign of TV, radio, print, web optimization and vendor expos. Our in-salon marketing provides savings Passports that cross-promote services, Reward Programs that enhance client retention, Referral Programs that expand client rosters and staff education and training that maximize business growth. We also offer our Members a job opportunity service.
How long have you been in business? 10 months.
What made you decide to start this type of business? Background and expertise in the field.
Who has been your biggest supporter? As mother and daughter, partners and best friends, we are each other’s biggest supporter.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? Think creation rather than competition. Create a new service or product that enhances life for many. Also, ignore nay sayers. Keep a mental image of your desired business results with absolute faith that you will attain it.

Saratoga Trunk, lady’s finery

493 Broadway, Saratoga Springs

584.3543; www.saratogatrunk.com

Owner: Natalie A. Sillery
Describe your business: Saratoga Trunk is a fun, fabulously fashionable and elegant women’s clothing store renowned for glamorous hats and jewelry, carrying the “branded best” in style and quality. For almost 14 years, Kay Unger, Teri Jon, Nicole Miller, Betsey Johnson, Kokin, Eric Javits, Le Beau Chapeau, Bazyli Studio, Alberto Makali, Zelda and Tadashi have been mainstays. In recent years I have added on Badgley Mischka, Marc Bouwer, Flores and Flores, Robin Howe, Flora Kung, Carmen Marc Valvo and others. We pride ourselves for our customer service, buying and attention to detail.
How long have you been in business? 14 years.
What made you decide to start this type of business? My desire to keep my beloved mother at home with me and not in a nursing home inspired me to go into business for myself. It could have been a bookstore, but an existent business became available to buy. I made it my own and the rest is history.
Who has been your biggest supporter? The fabulous Trunkettes, my best friends who also work and model for me for all our charity events, (some are TITS, Trunkettes in Training) and Honorary Trunkettes; great friends and customers who have modeled a lot for our many events year round; my husband Ted; my family – my brother, my cousin, my nieces and, of course, my dedicated friends and customers.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? Pray, have faith, take risks, be patient and don’t overspend (ha, ha).
Hours: Your Life/7 days (okay, sometimes 6) 10am-6pm, later in the spring and summer.

Something Olde, Something New…

1969 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands

475.0663;www.somethingoldenew.com

Owner: Karen Moses & Julie Hilland
Describe your business: We are a largeconsignment store offering a variety of items.For the home we carry,furniture, linens and new andvintage home accessories.In addition, we have brand name fashions and accessories,includingshoes, handbags and jewelry. Over the past several years, our prices have not seen an increase. Consigned items are priced to offer everyone an enjoyable shopping experience.
How long have you been in business? 10 years.
What made you decide to start this type of business? We were looking for a challenge! After significant life changes, we bothagreedthat we neededto break out on our own. With the knowledge that we love shopping and decorating, especially for bargains,our inspiration came from several consignment shops in the area.This, my friends, is how Something Olde, Something New was born!
Who has been your biggest supporter? We have been fortunate that our own customers and consignorshave been our biggest supporters. Our shoppers are mostly women who lovethe concept of the store—findingbargains,but also appreciatingthe recycling aspect of consignment.You can clean out a closet, make a few bucks and run into friends you haven’t seen in years.Itis a truly unique shopping experience.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? Go for it!However, do your homework, know your clientele, have a plan and be sure you have a good location.
Hours:Tuesday-Saturday10am-5pm; Thursday10am-7pm. Closed Sunday & Monday. During the holidays we are open on Sundays between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

State Farm Insurance

Elaine VanDeCarr

848 Kenwood Ave, Slingerlands

439-1292; elaine.vandecarr.cklr@statefarm.com

Owner: Elaine VanDeCarr
Describe your business: Selling insurance and financial products.
How long have you been in business? 19 years.
What made you decide to start this type of business? I was working in the insurance industry and decided that being self-employed (agent) would be a good avenue for me to pursue.
Who has been your biggest supporter? My original manager, other State Farm Agents and family.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? To believe in the product (business) you are choosing to start up. You need a huge commitment of time and effort for this endeavor.
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 9am-5pm; Tuesday 9am-8pm; other hours by appointment.

The Etiquette School of New York

21 South Greenfield Road, Greenfield Center

893.0066; www.EtiquetteSchoolofNewYork.com

Owner: Lorna Dupouy
Describe your business: I teach manners, social graces and dining etiquette to children and adults. I also teach business etiquette to individuals and corporations. A popular class adults love is “The Art of Fine Dining”, a five-course dinner class which includes Continental style dining, as well as American/ZigZag style, Silent Service techniques, and much more.
How long have you been in business? Four years.
What made you decide to start this type of business? My whole life seems to have been training for this.I spent years moving around the world with my husband and son because of the Navy.I hold degrees in Liberal Arts, Philosophy and a Master’s in Education.I taught high school students philosophy and history, but found they needed to learn basic manners to succeed in the world just as much as their school courses.As the Commanding Officer’s Wife, it was my job to pass on customs Navy spouses traditionally need to know to support their husbands/wives. Prior to marriage, I spent 10 years in the Marine Corps where I worked for Commanding Generals, The Secretary of the Navy and as a Senior Drill Instructor at Parris Island.I combined these experiences and my passion for teaching, with decorum, went through intensive training and an expensive certification process.
Who has been your biggest supporter? My husband Douglas is my biggest supporter. After all the years of following him around the world, he now cheers me on and delights in my successes.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? Give the most excellent product you are capable of.Everything is a reflection of you and triple check everything!

The Window Boutique

22 Olive Tree, Albany

459.3070

Owner: Gail Recchia
Describe your business: The Window Boutique provides a personal touch in working with homeowners to transform windows into a work of art.We design and install custom window treatments and sell a wide variety of blinds from companies like Hunter Douglas andLafayette.In addition, we offer a number of other services including: paint and wallpaper selection, re-upholstery and we sell a number of lines of furniture and carpets. Selecting the right fabric, color, patterns, trim and style and making sure that they coordinate with everything else in the house can be a time-consuming and overwhelming task.We take the stress out of these tasks and are able to work within a budget to create a designer look at affordable prices.
How long have you been in business? Two years. Prior to that I was working for others in the field.
What made you decide to start this type of business? I went to college for Interior Design and have always had an eye for this type of work.My friends and family were always asking me to help them with the selection of paint, furniture, fabrics, etc.After my children grew I decided it was time to start another chapter of my life.I began working with other designers in the area and loved being back to work.That, along with wanting to be independent and offer other services, helped me decide to start my own business.
Who has been your biggest supporter? My family. They told me that I had the talent and drive to be successful and encouraged me to give it a try.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue their own business? Follow your heart.If you have the passion and love for whatever you do and are prepared to work hard you will be successful.
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5:30pm.

Truly Rhe

11 Second Street, Troy

273.1540; www.trulyrhe.com

Owner: Rhe Potenza
Describe your business: The inviting windows of Truly Rhe display woman’s fashion amid touches of home furnishings, some of which include pendulum clocks, glass vases, scented candles, creations by local artists and collectables. It truly is a unique boutique that offers contemporary clothing, fun jewelry, accessories and gifts.
There are plenty of fashion finds in this packed 1200 sq. foot boutique due to the eclectic array of style and whimsy. I have never been one to follow the fashion trends. I never had any rules about what you can or cannot wear. That gift gave me my sense of style. I dress very casual, hip and fun and that is the premise upon which Truly Rhe is based.
How