Leading Ladies Around Reston
DR. HODA KAZEMIFAR
DORIS TYLER
Owner, Reston Serenity Smiles
Owner, Chesapeake Chocolates, Wine, Gifts & More
With the foundation she received from supportive parents and attending The Madeira School in McLean, Dr. Hoda Kazemifar learned that she could accomplish anything she put her mind to through hard work and dedication. This strong mindset and lack of boundaries allowed Dr. Kazemifar to pursue her dreams of dentistry and to open her Reston dental office in 2011.
As the oldest of five siblings and a mom of three boys, Doris learned to take charge and be flexible. She attributes much of her success to great role models including her parents who valued community and bosses who were teachers and mentors. As a special needs teacher and a trainer for teachers and care givers, Doris learned to listen and evaluate, take initiative, and to build on others’ strengths.
While running a successful business has its challenges, Dr. Kazemifar says, “Raising two rambunctious daughters can be just as challenging. Teaching my girls that they can reach their goals by not giving into obstacles that get in their paths is my proudest achievement. My daughters are definitely the highlights of my life. I work every day to show them that having gratification as a mom and business owner is quite possible.”
After resigning from her job and choosing to be a stay-at-home mom, Doris started Chesapeake Chocolates in 1998 with her sister-in-law as a home based business producing handmade chocolates. In 2007, Chesapeake Chocolates moved to a retail outlet in Lake Anne Village Center. In 2015, Doris expanded the business to include wine, gifts and more. In 2016, after much hard work and perseverance, Doris successfully returned the popular postal service to Lake Anne when she opened Bob Simon Lake Anne Contract Postal Unit.
The passion, drive and compassion that women bring to healthcare is what makes them unique and successful. “I opened my own practice because I wanted to be in control of providing my patients with the best care and attention possible.” This year, Reston Serenity Smiles celebrates 5 happy years serving patients in the Reston area.
www.restonserenitysmiles.com
When asked what advice she would offer to women starting a business, Doris says, “Learn as much as you can about your craft…and don’t stop. Ask questions and practice. Be flexible. Create an environment in which you are comfortable. Work with people you admire and enjoy. Remain calm.”
www.cheschoc.com CONTRIBUTOR: Samantha Marshall, www.sweetmemphoto.com
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AROUND RESTON MAGAZINE