Adam Ross Cut Stone Company
1003 Broadway, Albany
463.6674; www.adamrosscutstone.com
How long have you been in business? We have been at the same Albany location since 1889.
Describe your business: We offer one of the largest stone selections for interior and exterior applications in the Northeast. We custom cut items such as countertops, hearths, mantles, staircases and sculpture bases. We repair and restore customer’s existing pieces; anything from an antique marble tabletop to an intricately carved sculpture. We stock large quantities of natural and man-made veneer stone, landscaping stone and a variety of flagging materials for the home or commercial project. We are known as the original providers of stone on numerous historic buildings in downtown Albany, and as such, are often called upon for our restoration capabilities.
What sets you apart from competitors? Adam Ross Cut Stone is still family-owned and operated. Evan Ross ushers in the sixth generation of stone cutters. We custom cut to any specification provided and have the latest in computerized stone fabricating equipment. We are recognized in the industry for our expertise on residential, commercial and public projects alike.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? There are positions available for students who have studied drafting, computer aided design or who are interested in the sales aspect of the business. For those who want to pursue a career in stone fabrication, however, it is a hands-only learning experience. It is truly on-the-job training for anyone who loves the idea of working with stone and the rewards that come from creating something unique.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? With the growth of the nano-tech industry in the Capital District, and the concurrent influx of people, we see our business continuing to grow even in these difficult economic times. We are the only company to offer everything for the residential customer from kitchen countertops to landscaping stone all at one location. We look forward to the ongoing restoration work at the New York State Capital and the numerous other renovations projects that our historic city provides us with. Stone is always in style, stands the test of time and is virtually maintenance-free, so the demand for its use will continue well into the future.
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-4pm. Evenings by appointment. Saturday hours in the spring.
Advanced Image Artistry, Inc.
Permanent Cosmetics
Serving all of New England, New York and beyond.
413.448.8500; www.AdvancedImageArt.com
Owner: Laurie Ke, RN, BSN, FAAM
How long have you been in business? 7 years
Describe your business: I use micropigmentation (permanent cosmetics) to artistically re-create the look of natural hairs in the eyebrows for those who have little or no hairs in the brow area due to aging, medical reasons, alopecia, etc. I also replace and restore the color and shape to lips that have faded, as well as add definition to the eyes with eyeliner. Additionally, I provide paramedical procedures for scar camouflage, burn and cancer survivors.
What sets you apart from your competitors? I am told by my clients that they choose me because my work is so natural looking. I have years of training in fine art, especially oil painting and pen and ink. I recently won first place in the permanent cosmetics competition held by the American Academy of Micropigmentation. I am a registered nurse and a board certified permanent cosmetic practitioner, as well as an OSHA instructor to medical professionals. Lastly, I am very passionate and meticulous about my work and consider each procedure a new work of art.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? First and foremost, anyone considering this business must absolutely have artistic talent, especially drawing with pen and ink, and a strong knowledge of color theory. Attend an accredited program and train with as many industry professionals as possible. It is also important to establish good relationships with plastic surgeons, oncologists and dermatologists.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? My business has had continual growth each year. In the near future I will most likely open a second clinic in Southern California, where I lived for 25 years.
Hours: Monday-Friday by appointment, as well as evening and some weekends.
Dale Miller
Creative Culinary Concepts
30 S. Pearl Street, Albany
694.3322; www.dalemillerrestaurant.com
Owners: Dale Miller & Jim Linnan
How long have you been in business? I have been in the restaurant business for over 30 years. We will be opening the new restaurant, dalemiller, in April of 09′ in downtown Albany.
Describe your business: dalemiller will be a magnificent new 3,715 square foot restaurant located on the ground floor of Omni Plaza. It will offer seating for 60 in the dining room and 25 at the bar and will include an adjacent “quick service area with take-out for light fare.” The private dining room and banquet/meeting facility on Penthouse Level 1 will offer a roof top garden terrace with breathtaking views of the Albany skyline and be able to accommodate multiple functions from large to small groups. An outdoor garden courtyard with entertainment will be provided during the summer months. Valet parking will be available for all guests.
Menu selections will range from salads and sandwiches to fine dining options. The high end items will be reasonably priced and the menus designed to transcend a broad base of clientele.
What sets you apart from competitors? The fact that we have a restaurant with outside dining, as well as a gourmet-to-go kiosk and penthouse banquet facility for weddings and conferences is what sets us apart from competitors, not to mention we have the only panoramic views of both the Empire State Plaza, and all of Albany. We will also be offering table top amenities available for sale to the public.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? I would recommend you work in a kitchen or hotel to see if you really have the passion and dedication first because, as it is a rewarding career, it is also a demanding one.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? I am on a constant journey to hone and refine my craft and continue to expose Albany to new and exciting culinary creations. I feel the growth potential in this area is endless.
Hours: Monday-Friday, lunch and dinner 11:30am-10pm; Saturday 5pm-10pm dinner; closed Sunday except for major holidays and special events.
East Greenbush Window Coverings
568 Columbia Turnpike, Suite 8B East Greenbush
477.9025; www.eastgreenbushwindowcoverings.com
Owner: Lorraine Greaney
How long have you been in business? 21 years
Describe your business: East Greenbush Window Coverings & Home Interiors is an independent, woman-owned business that has a deep desire to work with clients to achieve the vision of what they want their home or office to be. In addition to window treatments which come in an endless variety of styles, I have added furniture for the home or office, artwork, accessories, color consultations and floor plans.
What sets you apart from competitors? I am a New York Certified Woman Owned Business and work with many state agencies, colleges and businesses in the Tri-City region. Weather the project is commercial or residential we take our client’s deadlines and needs as true priorities. As an independent shop owner, I find that it is easier to foster long-term relationships with clients. I also find that working with our local workrooms enables me to have the luxury of insuring that each job is completed and installed to meet the client’s expectations.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Be passionate about what you do and work does not seem like “work”. Stay focused and be resilient because there are always challenges to overcome.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? In the past year I have opened a new showroom that showcases my furniture line, artwork and accessories, and of course, gorgeous window treatment displays. The next few years I hope to continue to grow as the region grows and be an important resource for my clients and the public at large.
Hours: Showroom hours are Monday-Friday 9am-5:30pm; Saturday 10am-2pm; other hours by appointment in the showroom or in the home.
Farrell Brothers Inc.- Plumbing, Heating and
Air Conditioning
6 Simmons Lane, Albany
462.5454; farrellbrothers.com
Owner: Randy L Rowe, president
How long have you been in business? Since 1921
Describe your business: We are a full-service plumbing, heating and air conditioning contractor specializing in service and repair. We service over 10,000 households in the greater Capital Region area from changing a washer on your faucet to installing a high efficiency heating and cooling system in your home.
What sets you apart from competitors? We try to promote ourselves as professionals and keep the best interest of the customer in mind at all times. This is why we have gone to a flat rate pricing system so the customer knows up front how much their repair is going to be rather than using the conventional time and material method. We also guarantee appointment windows so our customers don’t have to sit home all day waiting for the plumber to show up.
Another benefit that we offer is same day service which seems to be what people want in our ever-changing market.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? I would advise someone to be prepared to work long hours because our day does not end at five o’clock. Although this business can be very rewarding at times, it can also be very stressful.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? We have been actively seeking and looking into high-efficient heating and cooling systems. We will be going green with tankless water heaters and will be offering solar options.
Hours: We are a plumbing and heating company so our hours are 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays.
Joyelles Jewelers
Main Square Shoppes – Suite 12
318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar
439.9993; www.joyellesjewelers.com
Owner: Mary Vail
How long have you been in business? Over 18 years.
Describe your business: Joyelles carries sterling, gold, platinum, diamond and gemstone jewelry. We specialize in jewelry repair and design, done on the premises. We also carry giftware.
What sets you apart from competitors? The close-knit staff is like a family; we work well together and care about each and every customer. We have a state-of-the-art laser welder that allows us to do jobs others can’t. We keep prices pretty competitive because we’re a small business.
What advice would you give others wanting to pursue a similar career? Get educated because there is a lot to know. Surround yourself with good people and make sure your customers are number one. I graduated from Skidmore College with a Fine Arts degree. I then took metalsmith classes at University of Oregon and did graduate work in metalsmithing at Indiana University. After that I took classes at the Gemological Institute of America concentrating on diamond setting, stone setting, pearl grading and gemstone identification.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? I see Joyelles growing. We have already watched a generation of our customer’s children grow up and become our new customers. Our customers are wonderfully loyal; we see them year after year.
Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9:30am-5:30pm; Thursday 9:30am-7pm; Saturday 9:30am-5pm; closed Sunday & Monday.
Old Daley Inn Catering Company, LLC
2 Northern Drive, Troy
235.2656; www.olddaleyinn.com
Owners: Jim Pettit, Gene Coletti & Marty Keary
How long have you been in business? 33 years
Describe your business: The Old Daley Inn Catering Company is a full-service, off-premises catering company serving the greater Capital Region and beyond. “From Backyard to Ballroom, We Do It All!” is our motto. We also have two lunch caf’s, The Old Daley Inn Marketplace and Pastanini, both on Maiden Lane off North Pearl Street in Albany. Serving a variety of American, Southwest and Italian foods, they’re open Monday-Friday 11:30am-2:30pm. Our outdoor vending division serves a 30-item menu from seasonal vending carts, April to October, in front of the Legislative Office Building on State Street and at the Harriman State Office Campus. The Barbecue division offers big “Pit” style Barbecues and our famous Drop-off Barbecues year round. Our Food Service Management division operates Corporate Caf’s within large office buildings.
What sets you apart from competitors? What sets us apart is our overall company outlook and attitude. Our everyday focus and goal is to create lasting relationships with our customers based on trust, honesty, cooperation and complete satisfaction. When you call The Old Daley Inn, you will find that we are the easiest company on the planet to do business with. In addition, we have a very fun and positive work atmosphere knowing that a happy workplace produces the best products and service.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Love what you do and do what you love. It’s our mantra for business, quoted in our television, radio and vehicle advertising.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Expansion of our Food Service Management division and the addition of a banquet facility. We are a highly motivated company always looking to take The Old Daley Inn to the next level.
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am to 4pm.
RG Stoves & Awnings
1541 NY 67, Schaghticoke
753.4346; rgstovesandawnings.com
Owner: Ed Reynolds
How long have you been in business? Since 1990.
Describe your business: RG Stoves and Awnings is owned and operated by the Reynolds family and is located in the town of Schaghticoke in Northern Rensselaer County. We carry and professionally install the finest quality stoves and awnings on the market. Warm yourself in the cold winter months with a Harman stove. They provide great heat, better fuel economy and require low maintenance. Harman stoves are available in gas, wood, coal, and of course, pellet stoves, boilers and furnaces. We also sell wood pellets on premise.
For the warm summer months, consider a Sunesta awning. For more then 20 years, Sunesta awnings have stood apart as the finest awnings made. Each Sunesta awning is individually crafted to fit the customer’s exact needs and tastes. When you buy a Sunesta awning, you can always be sure that the colors are right, the fit is perfect and the craftsmanship is without equal. This year we are offering new products to fill our expanding showroom.
What sets you apart from competitors? Premier customer service and location. RG Stoves and Awnings is conveniently located near Rensselaer, Saratoga and Washington counties, as well as Southern Vermont. Our satisfied customers cover the entire region. Plan to visit our showroom today. The scenic drive alone will make it worth your while….as will the quality of our products and services.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Customer service and quality products is what will set you apart from others. Have both! Be prepared to devote many hours to make your business successful.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? We are currently expanding our showroom to provide more top quality products and top rate service for many years to come.
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm; Saturday 9am-3pm.
River Stone Manor
1437 Amsterdam Road, Glenville
382.8322; www.riverstonemanor.com
Owners: Angelo (Skip) Sgarlata & Thomas Monteparo
How long have you been in business? The Sgarlata family opened their first restaurant 94 years ago and remained at the same location until opening the River Stone Manor with Tom in September 2003. Skip has personally been in the banquet and catering business for 36 years.
Describe your business: In-house banquets and off-premise catering specializing in weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, corporate events, business meetings, seminars, picnics, holiday parties and mitzvahs.
What sets you apart from others? Location, location, location. River Stone Manor is located on 15 acres of beautifully landscaped property on the banks of the Mohawk River. We offer three sites on the property to choose from. Our main ballroom features a complete wall of windows and French doors that open up to a beautiful patio overlooking the river. The ballroom comfortably seats 240 guests with a dance floor. The Manor House, perfect for intimate weddings, offers dinner and buffet packages with seating up to 25 guests or cocktail and hors d’ouvre receptions for 40 guests. The Manor House is also available for the bride and her bridesmaids to prepare for the wedding ceremony being held on the grounds. Your third choice is our Terrace tent which is located 30 feet from the Mohawk River and offers a unique atmosphere
you will not find anywhere else, seating up to 115 guests.
We have been told that the flavor and presentation of our food is second to none. And, you will receive personal attention not only from the staff, but from the owners themselves.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career path? Be sure you are prepared to work an incredible amount of hours. You have to truly love this business in order to succeed.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? We have had growth in sales and exposure every year since we’ve opened and we are expecting that this will continue. We have plans to further landscape the property making the grounds even more breathtaking. Several of our brides and grooms have referred to the property as “a little piece of heaven.”
Hours: 24-7. We are available any time of the day or evening to meet our client’s needs. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas.
Silhouette Eye Studio
5 Ulenski Drive, Albany
Off of Wolf Road – behind Professor Java’s
944.2300; www.silhouette-eyestudio.com
Owner: Arnold Schmied Jr.
Medical Director: Dr. Chad Vaughn, OD
How long have you been in business? Since November 2008.
Describe your business: We are a state-of-the-art optometric practice focused on providing comprehensive eye health examinations and consultations while providing exquisite eyewear and lenses in a relaxing and welcoming environment showcasing our three brands: Silhouette, Adidas and Daniel Swarovski Crystal Eyewear.
What sets you apart from competitors? Our philosophy goes beyond traditional expectations. We look at things from a broader perspective and hope to redefine how people think about eye care by combining medical expertise, wellness, relaxation and beauty treatments with innovative eyewear concepts for luxury, fashion and sport. Our consultants will help you find the perfect balance between functionality and fashion – combining lifestyle assessment and face shape analysis with unmatched product knowledge to help you find the most appealing frame and fit. To compliment your new eyewear purchase, we offer complimentary makeup applications with our mineral makeup line, Jane Iredale. We also carry restorative and anti-aging skin care products from Murad.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? The field of eyecare is constantly evolving. It allows for many rewarding experiences both personally and professionally. I would say do what you love in life and work hard to accomplish your goals. If helping people improve their quality of life by enhancing their most precious sense seems intriguing, then the field of eyecare may be for you.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? As a start-up business, we hope to establish the Silhouette Eye Studio as the premier optometric practice in the Capital Region where one can be confident they are receiving an exceptional quality of eyecare and eyewear in a beautiful, relaxing facility that prides itself on outstanding customer service.
Hours: Monday, Thursday 9am-7pm; Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 8:30am-5pm; Saturday 8:30am-12:30pm.
The Cross Eyed Owl Gift Shop
3143 Route 9, Suite 8, Valatie
758-6755; www.crosseyedowl.com
Owner: Patricia Varga
How long have you been in business? 16 years. We moved to this larger location four years ago from a tiny building down the road where we had been for 12 years. On January 1st of this year we changed the name of the shop; for 15 years prior we were known as Field Flowers.
Describe your business: The Cross Eyed Owl is not your average card and gift shop. Every nook and cranny of the shop is filled to the brim with unique items alongside everyone’s much requested everyday favorites! The entire shop is grouped by themes which makes shopping a sensory delight instead of a chore. Color groupings for home dcor makes finding coordinating items a breeze.
What sets you apart from your competitors? Our selection and our customer service set us apart. Everyone who walks through our door for the first time cannot believe the selection of gift items and home decor that we have. With items from over 400 vendors, there really is something for everyone. I hand select each and every greeting card and we are known for having the best selection of cards for just that reason!
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? So many of my customers say they’d love to have a place just like mine when they retire. I tell them that as long as they like long hours and hard work, the rest is a breeze. I love almost everything that comes with running a shop. I would have to say that meeting new people everyday and getting to be a part of their special family events over the years is my favorite part. I’ve seen a lot of babies and children grow up over the last 16 years. Finding just the right goodies for the shop would have to be the next on my list, and lastly, all the boring business details that need to be completed on a regular basis are at the bottom of the list, of course! You’ve got to love what you do and be detail-oriented in this business.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? I plan to continue to serve the needs of my local customers while entering the world of internet sales as well. We’ll strive to take the shop in whatever direction the customers desire, serving their needs and taking their suggestions whenever we can.
Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-6pm: Wednesday 10am-8pm; Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm.
The Orlo School of Hair Design and Cosmetology
232 North Allen Street, Albany
459.7832; www.theorloschool.com
Owners: Rick and Alice Caputo
How long have you been in business? Since 1995. We have been Beauty School owners since 1989. Rick has been in the beauty business since the early 1960s. Alice has been a licensed cosmetologist since the late 70s. She started teaching in 1989, and is currently the director of The Orlo.
Describe your business: We instruct students in the skills and principles of The Cosmetology Arts and Sciences. Classes in theory and practical skills are incorporated throughout our 1,000 clock-hour course. The subjects include: hairdressing, skin care and nail technology. In addition, an integral and important part of the program is teaching the knowledge and skills necessary for successful New York State Licensure. Our goals are threefold. First, the student will successfully complete our 1,000-hour program. Secondly, the student will become licensed in the state of New York by successfully completing the licensure exams, and last, but not least, the student will become gainfully employed in the career opportunity of their choice.
What sets you apart from competitors? First and foremost, our years of experience in the beauty business. Plus, we strive to encourage the creativity in our students. Our experienced and dedicated staff of instructors take a keen interest in each and every student. Our interest and dedication is evident in the huge success of our multitude of graduates.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Interview people who have made this career choice. Visit salons and spas and talk to the owners, salon managers and stylists. Hear what they have to say: “I believe you won’t be disappointed. Anyone who loves a career where they continually meet new people, learn new creative techniques, and can enhance the lives of others will be making a positive choice for their future!”
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Our business continues to grow. We are hoping that we will continue to grow in the next five years. In today’s economy where people are losing their jobs, a career in cosmetology is a terrific choice!
Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:45am-10pm; Friday 8:45am-3:15pm; Saturday 9am-2:30pm. For anyone looking to save money on salon services, our student salon is open Monday and Wednesday through Saturday.
The OuterZone Laser Tag Arena & Video Arcade
82 Congress Street Plaza, Saratoga Springs
587.8243; www.outerzonesaratoga.com
Owner: Gordon Duell
How long have you been in business? Almost 12 years.
Describe your business: We are a family operated, family entertainment facility that provides laser tag games and parties to all ages, as well as a video arcade for individuals, family and friends, groups and organizations.
What sets you apart from competitors? I would have to say the fact that we are a family-owned business. My brother and two daughters each have the capabilities that are essential to running a successful business.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Don’t expect a huge return immediately. It takes time and many hours to build your business. Always keep a plan going. Be patient and don’t give up.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Right now we are in the process of expanding and becoming a Family Entertainment Center with multiple venues. In five years I hope to be in a different facility and become very established with the new business.
Hours: Thursday 4pm-9pm; Friday 4pm-12am; Saturday 10am-12am; Sunday 11am-6pm. We basically cater to the availability of school age kids, so in the summer we are open all week.