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Wheaton and Glen Ellyn

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Wheaton Public Library, 2nd floor, 225 N. Cross Street, Wheaton, IL Get Ready to LOAD UP for Business Success!

The Business Resource Center at the Wheaton Public Library will bring people and expert information together in one place for easy access. Load up with the information you need to increase your business success!

The Business Resource Center will provide no cost access to: business information collections • business data bases • workshops • seminars business education presentations • round table discussions • special events authoritative materials from regional business organizations Details will be available at wheatonlibrary.org and wheatonchamber.com Please call us at the WheatonPublic Library (630) 668-1374 or Wheaton Chamber of Commerce (630) 668-6464 A collaboration between

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“I think it’s great that some of our employees have been with us for 20 years. Our customers feel at home when our servers recognize them and take the time to say hello, even if it’s not their table to serve.”

—Dena Colie Owner Barone’s of Glen Ellyn

Dena Colie (left) & Tara Willsey are second & third generation of family involved in running Barone’s of Glen Ellyn.

Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media.

Barone’s of Glen Ellyn Featuring 3 generations and a proud tradition of food, service and community spirit

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hen it comes to family-owned businesses and the topic of pizza comes up, the conversation will undoubtedly turn to Barone’s of Glen Ellyn, a regional institution where they have been offering a proud tradition of food, service and community spirit to Glen Ellyn since 1971.

For second-generation Owner Dena Colie, who has been managing the restaurant her parents opened in Glen Ellyn more than 45 years ago, the restaurant has always been a part of her life. “I started managing when I got out of college, I was 22,” she says. Now she and her brother Jim Willsey are owners of the restaurant.

Many of the staff at family-owned Barone’s of Glen Ellyn have worked at the restaurant for decades.

Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

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Bpizza.com Pizza Pasta Catering

Dena fondly recalls those early years when her parents were first starting out and reflects on how things have grown over the years.

“When my parents opened Barone’s of Glen Ellyn they were two owners with two employees and one driver.

It was a small storefront with two tables that customers could use,” she says. “Now, 45 years later, we have expanded to occupy the entire building, we have 40 employees, 10 drivers, and a 130-seat dining room.”

According to Colie, treating her employees like family has always been important. She says her brother Jim recently did a quick accounting of experience among the employees and came to the conclusion the staff had accumulated more than 300 years of service with Barone’s of Glen Ellyn. “We have 14 employees that have 10 years of service

with us and five employees who have 20 years,” she says.

“I think it’s great that some of our employees have been with us for 20 years,” Colie says.

“Our customers feel at home when our servers recognize them and take the time to say hello, even if it’s not their table to serve.

Our employees take pride in what they do and the services and products we provide.”

Those products on the menu have had to withstand the test of time. Colie says some of the biggest changes she has seen over the years are with dietary issues. “We have added Gluten-friendly options as well as dairy-free sauces and cheese. There has also been a growing demand for local healthy products,” she says. “Our cheeses are from Wisconsin and our sausage is manufactured for us in Bartlett. We support I Have A Bean coffee in Wheaton, we make all of our dressings in-house to remove preservatives and our chicken is free range.”

Now into its third generation of family involvement in the business, Colie says being family-owned has been a vital part of their success. “As a family business, everyone is considered part of the family, and it’s the employees and customers working together that really make the restaurant succeed.

Community involvement is a top priority for us,” she says. “We are here for the customer, not just the bottom line.”

Colie says there are many former residents who always make sure to stop by the restaurant whenever they are in town. “That’s very rewarding,” says Colie, “customers making you part of their stop.”

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Wheaton Religious Gift Shop & Church Supply A means for keeping focus on God

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f you ask Wheaton Religious Gift Shop & Church Supply Owners Joe and Phil Taschetta where their success comes from, they’ll tell you it comes from being dedicated to running the business. “You have to work in it,” Joe says.

“But you also have to work on it. That means you have to be involved, be there for employees, no absentee management.”

When it comes to his 49-year-old business, located at 113 W. Front St. in Wheaton, Joe says his insights into customer needs and running a business started at a very young age. “First, it was table talk at home. And then I started working there in grade school. I did every job possible from sweeping floors to helping customers.”

Joe explains that his grandmother, Angie Taschetta, opened her religious card shop right after she retired. “My dad was a pharmacist in Phil Taschetta (left) and Joe Taschetta run Wheaton Religious Gift & Church Supply in Wheaton and he helped Wheaton, a family owned business. Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media get her a loan to start one-stop-shop for anything a church group the original shop,” he says. “They never really could need, but the most recent expansion had a business plan, it just evolved.” has been with his new eCommerce website: religiousgiftwarehouse.com, which offers a When they noticed religious items were global reach. selling especially well, Joe says they simply put more focus on that aspect of the business, and with a growing demand from • churchsupplywarehouse.com the region’s churches they expanded several • Religious Gifts times over the years. Joe says his • Statues Wheaton location, with 22 employees, is a • Books

Tavoos Skin Care & Halotherapy Spa Personal care that is committed to clients’ physical and mental well-being

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hen you ask Owner Marji Soofi why she opened Tavoos Skin Care and Halotherapy Spa in Glen Ellyn, there’s little doubt her unique expertise and 40 years experience were a perfect match for her passion. “Tavoos was established to take wellness to another level,” she says.

Tavoos Skin Care and Halotherapy has been a spa destination since it opened its door five years ago. Halotherapy (a.k.a. salt therapy) has distinct benefits, says Soofi, “Salt inhalation is beneficial for the respiratory system as well as boosting the immune system.”

Soofi explains that salt caves are located all over Europe and this was her way of bringing the natural homeopathic salt cave experience

to the United States.

“The combination of established skin care expertise with the halotherapy is what makes us unique.”

Seven tons of pure organic Himalayan salt is used to create the salt therapy room at Marji Soofi’s familyowned business, Tavoos Skin Care and Halotherapy Spa in Glen Ellyn. Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

According to Soofi, Tavoos’ real success is built on her staff’s ability to care and commit to clients’ physical and mental well-being.

“By combining our knowledge and resources in the Salt Room, our clients can achieve a higher level of health.”

At the end of the day, Soofi says loyalty is the number one factor for her success both professionally and personally. “I have been

fortunate enough to grow my extended family through my clients. I have seen teenagers grow up, and now I see their children.”

• 710 Roosevelt Rd. Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 Tavooshalospa.com • Skin Care • Halotherapy • Kids Halotherapy

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Stones Jewelry Providing personal touch since 1911, serving generations of customers

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They talk about coming in with their parents and grandparents.”

“I think it’s the personal touch we give to each and every customer,” explains Huiner, who has been the manger for two years. “Whether it’s watch batteries or custom jewelry, every one of our customers is treated like family.”

Owner Dave Petti, who has been working Owner David Petti (left) and manager Brad Huiner run Stones Jewelry, a family owned at Stones for 35 years, Wheaton business since 1911. Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media says the generational “The trust that people put in us with some of aspect of his business their most prized possessions is extremely is very unique. “I am now selling rewarding,” says Huiner. “It is an honor to engagement rings to the grandchildren carry on the traditions and standards of the of people to whom I have sold family that has come before me.” engagement rings.”

When Stones Jewelry Manager Brad Huiner talks about his customers, he recognizes that they could take their business a lot of places, but choose Stones. And in that trust – he finds great rewards.

For a family-owned business that opened its doors in 1911, it would appear that treating clients like family is exactly what the customer wants. According to Huiner, customers regularly refer to Stones Jewelry as “their family jewelry store.

Huiner says that while styles change over time, “our customers’ expectation for quality products and repairs at reasonable prices does not change.”

• stonesjewelry.com • Wedding Engagement • Fine Jewelry

• Custom Jewelry • Watches • Repairs

Linea Hair Salon & Day Spa Offering full service spa with 60 years behind the chair

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unning a business in Glen Ellyn for 30 years would make most owners happy. For Joe Tristino, owner-stylist of Linea Hair Salon & Day Spa, happiness comes from a place much deeper than being the leader of a success business.

“I really love this business. I like making people happy and this business gives me a chance to do that every day,” says Tristino, who has more than 60 years experience in the cosmetology and beauty industry.

“I’m definitely most happy when I am behind the chair.”

The 75-year-old’s passion for his craft is evident from the moment you meet him.

Having been the president of the Chicago Cosmetologist Association and a former beauty school owner and a national & international platform artist & educator, Tristino knows, and he has trained many

people to understand, what it takes to make the customers happy.

According to Tristino, many of the Linea Hair Salon & Day Spa staff members have been Joe Tristino blow-dries Faith Jordan’s hair at his Linea Hair Salon & Day Spa in Glen Ellyn. with him for upwards of 25 years. With more than Plainfield resident Jordan has been a customer of Tristino’s for 33 years.

Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media 35 employees, getting behind the chair and doing it is the Tristino says they are a close team. “We all only real way to improve,” Tristino says. “For work together. They are all like family to me.” my employees, training your own people is the only way to ensure you get it right.”

Tristino initially trained in Europe, then spent seven years in England before returning to the U.S. where he competed as an award-winning platform artist, opened his own salon and trained students for careers in the industry.

• Lineasalon.com • Haircuts & Styles Tristino still teaches class every Wednesday • Facials & Waxing night. He says he enjoys the teaching aspect • Nails of his career. “Training is very important, but

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“Our store can accommodate the foody, the picky, the healthy, the spicy, the vegans, pretty much anyone, literally. We shock a lot of leery customers!”

– Karen Evensen Owner Olive ‘n Vinnie’s

Karen (from left) Gary, Bryson, 6; and Kellie Evensen represent three generations of Evensens at the family owned Olive ‘n Vinnie’s in Glen Ellyn. Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

Olive ‘n Vinnie’s Delivering the very highest quality olive oils & balsamics

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With a passion for culinary excellence and a knack for experimenting with recipes and especially olive oils, owners Gary and Karen Evensen opened Olive ‘n Vinnie’s in Glen Ellyn more than 3 ½ years ago.

Along with daughter, Kellie, who manages the daily operations, this family-owned business represents the creativity and enthusiasm that is often associated with local start-ups.

“The purpose of our store is simple,” says Karen. “Offer a plethora of healthy, delicious, high-end, fun and exciting products to enhance anyone’s – and I mean anyone’s – culinary, experience.”

Manager Kellie (from left) and Olive ‘n Vinnie’s owners Karen and Gary Evensen offer a wide variety of culinary fare at their Glen Ellyn location. Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

• 449 N. Main Street, Glen Ellyn 630-534-6457 or 630-306-0283 Oliveandvinnies.com • Personal And Corporate Gifts • Olive Oils • Balsamics

Legitimate products and exceptional personal attention provide a positive and enlightened shopping experience for customers.

A culinary destination featuring such distinct olive oils and balsamic products would be incomplete without the ability to sample the products. Karen says Olive ‘n Vinnie’s has more than 65 tasting stations for balsamics and olive oils.

“We have balsamics from Modena, Italy, and olive oils imported from 15 countries. Besides the Extra Virgin olive oils, we have flavors like Persian Lime, Herbes de Provence, Wild Mushroom and Sage, and Harissa,” says Karen. “We also carry unique balsamics like

Black Mission Fig, Pomegranate, Gravenstein Apple, Serrano Honey, and many more.”

Keeping with the uniquely high level of refinement and culinary commitment, Olive ‘n Vinnies also carries signature spices. “We have teamed with The Geneva Spice House to carry a wide variety of their hand-blended spices, not to mention great BBQ items, sauces, salts, pastas, candles and olive oil beauty products,” says Karen.

While product is certainly a key to success, Karen is quick to point out the personal importance of having a family-owned business. “Beyond the day-to-day common goals, my husband and I look to the future knowing that our daughter will have this on her own one day, and who knows, maybe our 6-year-old grandson may be interested.”

“We have become specialists for personal and corporate gifting,” says Karen.

“People really like the idea of consumable, high-end-but-affordable, healthy options that we can ship anywhere. Our store can accommodate the foody, the picky, the healthy, the spicy, the vegans, pretty much anyone, literally. We shock a lot of leery customers!”

When you talk to Karen, it easy to see how much the Eversen family appreciates their customers. “It is impossible for small, family-owned businesses to keep their doors open unless the community supports them,” says Karen. “All our customers have become long-term friends because of our commitment to their health and happiness.”

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“We have sold engagement rings to the kids whose parents bought their engagement rings from us. We have sold countless engagement rings to young couples whom I have known since they were babies.”

—Joseph N. Costello Jr. Founder Costello Jewelry Company

Michele Perry is ready to greet customers at Costello Jewelry Company in Glen Ellyn, which has recently undergone major remodeling. Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media.

Costello Jewelry Company Where trust and modern craftsmanship meets supreme customer service

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he Founder of Costello Jewelry Company in Glen Ellyn, Joseph N. Costello Jr., has been in the jewelry industry for more than 35 years. And while there have been plenty of changes, he says the most critical aspects to ensuring success have not waivered.

“Trust is paramount in the jewelry industry,” Costello says. “We offer complete jewelry repair and custom fabrication right on the premises. The work area is in full view, so customers can observe the work being done to their personal items.”

In addition to offering high-quality stock items, Costello says his stores feature handcrafted custom jewelry, watches, bridal specialties and appraisals while you wait (by appointment) with a certified gemologist.

Jeweler Rico Gonzalez works on a ring at Costello Jewelry Company in Glen Ellyn. Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

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Costello.net Diamonds Watches Repair

According to Costello, customer expectations have evolved as technology has grown and customers have become more informed.

“Our custom work creating a design is now done with computer technology, so the precision is impeccable. We have the latest state-of-the-art equipment for all of our services,” says Costello. “All of these changes were made to be competitive with the finest jewelers, but it’s at a lower price because we do all the work ourselves.”

Costello says there is great pride in being part of a community. One of the most rewarding aspects, he says, is giving back to local charities, churches, and the education system.

“It is also very rewarding to see people in restaurants or public places and they come up to you with accolades,” says Costello. “It’s nice to have people share their experiences with friends, and then to have the friends come in and relay what their friends said about us – it’s a great feeling!”

Costello explains that one aspect of being part of the community is growing up with them. “We have sold engagement rings to the kids whose parents bought their engagement rings from us,” he says. “We have sold countless engagement rings to young couples whom I have known since they were babies. Sometimes it makes me feel a bit old – but it is very cool.”

Costello sings the praises of his Glyn Ellen Manager Michele (as pictured). She knows everybody’s name, from our customers to the UPS guy,” he says. “She has been with us 22 years, and my craftsmen, 21 years, and the list goes on. Our journey here has been, and will continue to be, an absolute blessing!”

“God put my store in this wonderful town.

The people of Glen Ellyn and Wheaton are incredibly gracious, and the pleasure has been all ours,” says Costello. “Lastly, I want to thank God for the staff at Costello Jewelry Company, which will not only treat you like a Rock Star, they have always treated me the same. I am so blessed!”

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“A trusted and respected identity is absolutely essential in representing our clients.

Marketing, training and the latest technology are absolute essentials.”

— Ken Spengel Vice President & Managing Broker

Ken Spengel is Berkshire Hathaway Home Services KoenigRubloff Realty Group vice president & managing broker.

Berkshire Hathaway KoenigRubloff Realty Group Providing exemplary realty services earned over decades

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ack in 1988, when Danada Square East Shopping Center opened, Ken Spengel was in the real estate business and looking to open a new office in Wheaton. His focus was on selling real estate in what was a promising local market.

“When I opened the office in 1988, I was in the real estate business,” says Spengel, who has more than 47 years experience as a licensed real estate professional. “Over the years I learned the business of real estate. There is a difference between selling homes and owning a business that provides a career to others who sell real estate.”

Ken Spengel in his office back in 1988.

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KoenigRubloff.com Mortgage Loans Title Services Relocation

Over the last 28 years, that evolution in Spengel’s professional focus has become Berkshire Hathaway Home Services KoenigRubloff Realty Group.

Spengel, the company’s vice president managing broker, says the company still sells residential real estate, but he is also responsible for recruiting, training and coaching agents in the company.

The KoenigRubloff Realty Group office, still located in its original location at 145 Danada Square East, has seen tremendous change over the years from the local market and

customer needs to new federal regulations and a newly extended reach that far exceeds the original boundaries of 1988 technology.

“The Internet has allowed our Multiple Listing Service MLS to display home details for all of Northern Illinois and beyond. When I started out,” Spengel says, “realtors were basically restricted to a very small area, as in Northern or Southern DuPage County.”

As time and technology manages to impact every aspect of the business, Spengel reflects on the positives that have evolved: “Today we have real time information of all listings in Chicagoland. Realtors no longer have geographical boundaries. We do not just service our town. We sell in all five counties.”

Spengel says his staff’s training has been a difference maker over the years. “I am not aware of any other company that provides a more complete training of its agents,” he says. “In addition to the essential basic training that nearly everyone provides, we have two additional formal coaching programs to elevate mid-level performers to their maximum potential – and a program for those who may be considered the elite mega producers.”

“I am truly blessed to have a life-long career in what I love doing,” says Spengel. “I take great pleasure in showing others how to become a real estate professional so that they can experience what I have.”

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Glen Ellyn Pharmacy Providing trusted, professional pharmaceutical help since 1959

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hen Glen Ellyn Pharmacy was opened in 1959, Dwight D. Eisenhower was president and the Market Plaza Shopping Center was its home. In 1995 it moved to its current location, 486 Roosevelt Rd., where it remains a constant beacon of integrity and trust for customers’ pharmaceutical needs.

Glen Ellyn Pharmacy owners Bob and Lyn Listecki tend shop six days a week. Bob is a second-generation pharmacist who graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1962. Growing up in a family-owned pharmacy business, Bob says his parents’ store, Listecki Drug, located at North & Bell avenues in Chicago, had a big influence on him getting into the business.

“My dad was with the UpJohn Company and he’d tell stories around the family table about

the pharmacy, which tempered my interest in this profession,” says Bob. “This helped the business become more diverse in helping patients with health solutions in alternate ways, often with better results, at a lower cost and more naturally.”

Pharmacist Bob Listecki with his wife Lyn (left) and Ruchita Goyani (right), Doctor of Pharmacy candidate 2017 Chicago State University, at the Listecki’s family-owned Glen Ellyn Pharmacy. Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

Now, with 57 years into his own family-owned business, Bob can still recall those early days in Glen Ellyn when the town was still growing.

“I can still recall when we first came to Glen Ellyn, we could see the traffic on Butterfield Road from our loading dock on Roosevelt Road,” Bob says.

According to Bob, Glen Ellyn Pharmacy divides its services into three major groups:

Regular prescription dispensing; Compounding special needs medicine, which is only about 1% of the medicine market; and 1/3 Alternate therapy.

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(630) 469-5200 Prescriptions Compounding Alternate therapy

Adelle’s Fine American Fare

Scratch-kitchen quality and inviting space keep diners coming back for more

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ou will find many reasons why customers flock to Adelle’s Fine American Fare in Wheaton. For many, it is the distinctly unique scratch kitchen that keeps them coming back, still others will cite the personal service and comforting surroundings.

The formula for success in any business is going to vary, and for a family-owned business to be successful, the formula often comes down to great products and equally good service. “We pay close attention to every detail. Either my husband or I has always been onsite almost everyday,” says Debbie Williams, owner/operator of Adelle’s with her husband, Todd Williams. “Adelle’s is our livelihood, it’s not just a job to us” The restaurant business can be especially tough to sustain longevity. Surpassing the decade mark was no fluke for Adelle’s Fine

American Fare. The business offers a diverse selection of services from their scratch menu and live music to banquet options. “At Adelle’s, we proudly handcraft each element that compose our menu’s dishes,” says Williams.

Debbie Williams’ family-owned restaurant Adelle’s Fine American Fare has been in business for 12 and a half years and will have been in its current Wheaton location 5 years this August. Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

Williams says the business must constantly keep up with trends. And while she says the food is always great, items such as allergy sensitivity and sourcing local products for the menu have required some adjustments in the business over the years.

Williams is quick to credit others for Adelle’s longevity. “The staff are absolute long-time professionals in the industry, many with over

three decades of experience, and Adelle’s chef has been with the restaurant since opening.

Moreover, we would not have made it through two floods in our previous address and a risky location move without the dedicated support from the local community.”

• Adelles.com • From-Scratch Kitchen

• Live Music • Banquets • Outdoor Dining

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Tasting deVine Enjoy tasting wine and laughing with friends in the heart of Wheaton

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strong and supportive network of dedicated customers and guests who are drawn to our tasting room.”

According to Tasting deVine Manager Beverly Fishleigh, who has been managing the Wheaton location for 11 years and has been part of the company for 16 years, she loves the idea of working for a family-owned business. “I think it is much more intimate and hands on than a larger company might be,” she says.

Lynfred Winery, the oldest and largest winery in Illinois, Beverly Fishleigh is the manager of Tasting deVine in Wheaton. produces more than 100 Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media unique wines/blends as years. We are like a family and so many of our well as producing more than 25,000 cases of guests comment on feeling like they are wine every year. Lynfred works with up to 30 walking into someone’s home when visiting varietals from the very finest grapes and has us,” she says. “The friendliness of staff and won international, national, regional and visitors and the comfortable ambiance brings state awards. guests back time and time again.”

Fishleigh is quick to point out that the • Lynfredwinery.com high-quality product is not the sole reason • Daily tastings for the Wheaton location’s long-time success.

• Private parties “We are fortunate to have a very dedicated • Wine club team, most have been with us from 5 to 11

reating a hallowed setting for wine tasting and spending quality time with friends and family is not an easy undertaking. For Valerie Koehler, retired owner of Tasting deVine who set out to accomplish such a task in 1999, the quaint store she opened, featuring Lynfred wines, became a destination in the Wheaton community.

Fishleigh says the store’s brand is the main ingredient to it’s success. “We feature Lynfred Winery exclusively. Our wine club provides a

Soukup’s Hardware Providing personalized customer service and high-quality products since 1920

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or Ryan Soukup, being part of a family-owned business has always been an integral part of his life. “I’ve worked in the family hardware business since I was 15. I started back in 1974,” says Soukup.

The Soukup’s Hardware business has been in Glen Ellyn since 1932. And while over the decades different branches of the family may have run the store, which had eight locations at one time, says Soukup, the Glen Ellyn location is the sole remaining locale.

“Customers who come to our store expect more accountability and personalized service,” says Soukup, who co-owns the business and has managed the Glen Ellyn store since 1985.

“That’s what you expect from a family-owned business. It’s what sets us apart.”

While product knowledge is essential to being able to help customers, Soukup says there are several reasons why generations of customers have been coming back.

“Building a rapport with Ryan Soukup of Soukup’s Hardware on Main Street in downtown Glen Ellyn.

Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media our customers has spanned four generations and has served and making their shopping DuPage County residents since 1920. The experience comfortable is probably our key residents of Glen Ellyn and the surrounding to success.” communities have embraced us and made my The inviting and familiar brown brick facade of job very spiritually rewarding.”

Soukup’s Hardware is a reminder of its unique personalized approach to business. “ I’ve been blessed to have the opportunity to work in a family-owned hardware store that

• doitbest.com • Housewares

• Building Materials • Lawn & Garden

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“Our longevity is based upon our ability to be creative and customize our business in ways the big boxes cannot. Each sale is personal and not focused on delivering shareholders returns.”

— Doug Samuels President Young’s Appliances

Doug Samuels is president of Young’s Appliances, which was once called Freeze-Rite Locker & Sales Co. Photo by Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

Young’s Appliances A family-owned regional institution since 1931

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ince 1995 Doug Samuels has been president of Young’s Appliances.

He says he accepted his father-in-law’s offer to join the long-standing family-owned business and left his high school coaching and teaching career for a life in appliances.

Samuels says it was his wife’s grandfather and business partner who initially purchased the business back in 1931. Named Young’s Home Utilities, the business sold small appliances, sheet music, radios and record players.Today, Young’s Appliances is a regional institution as well as a major appliance retailer and self-servicing dealer.

For Samuels, who still sells appliances in addition to managing the overall operations of the business, each sale is still a very personal process he does not take for granted.

“Customer service is probably the most important factor to any business’ success and family businesses are usually more focused on customer service because it is personal for them,” he says.

Photo by Youngs Appliances

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Laundry Refrigeration Cooking/Ranges Appliance Service

At a time when big box stores are commanding the attention of markets across the nation, Young’s Appliances sees continued success by making their business about the customers’ experience.

“Our longevity is based upon our ability to be creative and customize our business in ways the big boxes cannot. Young’s has their own delivery and installation staff that

can handle even the most custom installs, and their own award-winning service department and technicians with years of experience to fix your appliances if needed.”

Samuels says that commitment to customer service is the main reason for their success. “It creates loyal customers. Lowest prices are a perception created by the big boxes and if they are the lowest price, there is usually a reason created by something that they don’t do, or can’t do as well,” he says.

“Good quality doesn’t have to be expensive, but the price of products and services are usually an indication of what you will get in return. I like to think that when shopping for a product, the price of the product is only a part of the transaction,” says Samuels.

“At Young’s Appliances, we assume the customer is looking for the complete package of full delivery and installation with a backing of customer service for the life of the product.”

With today’s technology offering new features in household appliances that could only have been dreamed of just a decade ago, Samuels says the overall goal is to improve appliance performance and save money while providing ease of use, ease of service, and flexible design implementation.

“I have a staff of 10 that averages 10 years experience with the company – the longest being 40 years.,” Samuals says. “Family owned businesses have a staff that is loyal, like what they do, and are committed to adjusting with the business climate.”

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“Something most people don’t realize is how much work is put into the collection. Each piece is like an adopted child that I have rescued, cared for, restored and it is my job to find these items a proper, loving home...”

—Lindsay Jirasek Owner Frocks and Frills Vintage

Jan and Lindsay Jirasek model some Hawaiian garb at their family business, Frocks and Frills Vintage in Wheaton.

Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media.

Frocks And Frills Vintage One-of-a-kind premium selection of vintage apparel, accessories that cater to modern trends

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hen you step through the door at Frocks and Frills Vintage in Wheaton, it is very clear that you have entered into a store that is very different from your typical family-owned business.

What is not different in this store is the passion and commitment Frocks and Fills Vintage Owner Lindsay Jirasek, who opened the store in 2012, has for the customers and the unique products she offers. “Between my mom and I, we have a combined knowledge of antiques and vintage that exceeds 40 years of experience. Plus, we truly care about how people look,” Jirasek says. “I always tell my clients that I never want someone to leave my store looking like a clown, just so that I can make a sale. I’d rather have someone buy something they truly love.”

Frocks and Frills Vintage in Wheaton is packed with an eclectic mix of vintage clothing, jewelry and accessories.

Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

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Frocksandfrillsvintage.com Men’s & Women’s Apparel Accessories & Shoes Hats & Handbags

Frocks and Frills Vintage provides quality men’s and women’s vintage clothing and accessories that date from the 1800s to the 1980s. The handpicked, wearable vintage apparel and accessories are one-of-a-kind items, which cater to modern trends. While the star of the show is the merchandise, the commitment to distinction doesn’t stop there.

“We give each and every client one-on-one attention. When you come into the store, you are not only stepping back in time with the merchandise, but also the type of shopping experience you receive. We size and fit each

serious shopper to find them the most flattering era and silhouette for their body type and personal preferences,” says Jirasek. “When a client leaves my store, they leave with the knowledge of a bygone era and a piece of history that fits their body like a glove.”

According to Jirasek, the primary purpose of her shop is to provide high quality and authentic vintage clothing, jewelry, and accessories to the public, but it is easy to see she puts a lot of herself into every item. “I source the items, clean and repair them, and once they are fully restored they are available for sale in the brick and mortar shop, and also available online to an international audience.”

“Something most people don’t realize, is how much work is put into the collection,” Jirasek says. “Each piece is like an adopted child that I have rescued, cared for, restored and it is my job to find these items a proper, loving home where that little piece of the past can continue living.”

Jirasek recalls the special place one particular clothing rack has in her store. It was her very first fixture purchase. A few years ago, her husband, Jan, mounted a wooden shelf on it for her as a Christmas gift. “I started with this one little rack of clothing, which eventually blossomed into the whole shop. Each time I look at the clothing rack, I am reminded of my beginning and the evolution of my business.”

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“As a family, we have a real desire to bring beauty to the world and continue our family legacy within the community.”

—Steve Lederman Owner Lederman’s Wheaton Nursery

Kyle Votava (from left), Steve Lederman, Jr.; Steve Lederman, Sr.; and Adam Lederman take a moment in between tasks at Lederman’s Wheaton Nurseries. Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

Lederman’s Wheaton Nursery Sharing 100-plus years of knowledge and experience

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he epitome of the all-American family-owned business may very well be sitting at 626 E. Roosevelt Rd. in Wheaton. Touting the vast knowledge and experience that more than 100-plus years in the business will provide, four generations of the Lederman family have made the business what it is today – a local institution.

According to owners Steve and Carrie Lederman, Steve’s grandfather, Anton Lederman, started the business in 1895 in downtown Wheaton.

“He would take the train to places like El Paso, Lake Zurich, and Kirkland, Illinois to sell bushes and trees to farmers for wind breaks. He enjoyed people and the art of selling.”

Carrie Lederman is ready for customers at Lederman’s Wheaton Nurseries. Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

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Wheatonlandscape.com Landscaping Trees & Shrubs Plants & Containers

Lederman’s Wheaton Nursery settled at its current location in 1911. Anton’s son, Ralph, ran the business until 1978 when Steve and Carrie took over. Since then, their two sons, Steve and Adam, the fourth generation of Ledermans, have also joined the business.

Over those 100 years, business has grown and the services the Nursery offers have expanded. “We are a full-service retail nursery that offers customized landscaping and design services, both residential and commercial,” Steve says. “As a family, we have a real desire to bring beauty to the world and continue our family legacy within the community.”

And what about all that physical work associated with the nursery business?

“Tenacity and perseverance are essential to success,” says Steve, who fondly recalls his Uncle Elmer saying: “It’s a good life if you don’t weaken.”

It’s not hard to see just how passionate the Lederman family is about delivering their customers the very best products, services and custom designs. It is certainly the opposite of what you get from the big box stores that try to compete. “Wheaton Nursery has a helpful, knowledgeable staff and maintains a supply of beautiful, thriving plants throughout the summer. In addition, we carry rare and unusual plants customers don’t see everywhere,” says Steve.

Steve has a photo he shares that shows a tree that has grown taller and wider than the house it was planted in front of more than 100 years ago. According to Steve, one of the benefits of having done business, especially landscaping and growing, in the same region for so long is the ability to see your work thrive years later. Steve says he enjoys driving by or visiting places where they have planted trees and bushes years ago. “It’s very nice, you can see how big and beautiful they’ve become.”

But the thing Steve says he most enjoys is getting calls from homeowners they landscaped over 30 or 40 years ago who are now calling to get a new look. He said they just they just received a call from a homeowner they designed back in 1975 who wants to re-landscape. “A lifetime of trust is a good thing,” Steve says, “and it is still fun.”

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The new Glen Ellyn Tile & Flooring Gallery is a major milestone for us.

No matter the look people want to create in their homes, they will find it here. Our vignettes within the gallery offer a great starting point for all kinds of ideas.”

— Steve DeSitter and Tom Cunningham Co-Owners DeSitter Flooring

DeSitter Flooring design/sales consultants Tim O’Brien (from left), Joanne Voll, Hana Steinke, Denise Fratto and Paul Massey (not shown) in the recently opened Glen Ellyn DeSitter showroom Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media.

DeSitter Flooring

Third-generation guides business to Glen Ellyn location

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eSitter Flooring Co-Owners Steve DeSitter and Tom Cunningham are first cousins. They have a combined experience in the flooring industry that exceeds 50 years. As impressive as that number is, it pales in comparison to the company, which has been in business for 96 years.

“Our family-owned and operated company goes back three generations,” says DeSitter, whose grandfather, Louis DeSitter, started the company in 1920. “My grandfather had a vision to start a flooring company that would leave a legacy of excellence for years to come.”

With his grandchildren carrying on the legacy for decades after the company’s founding, DeSitter says his grandfather would have been proud of where the company is today, in addition to being a bit surprised at the levels of modern technology that have been integrated into running the business. “We are constantly using the latest and best technologies in the flooring industry,” DeSitter says. “We depend on this technology to manage our business and to help us grow.”

DeSitter Flooring recently opened a new showroom in Glen Ellyn. Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

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DesitterFlooring.com Carpet Tile Hardwood

DeSitter also emphasized the importance of technology in today’s business. He said they depend on it for better processes and efficiencies in areas such as: • Estimating projects more quickly and accurately • Accounting and scheduling installations • Managing our product file and stock inventory • Business Development and Customer Service • Inside our state-of-the-art workroom / warehouse with computerized cutting machine; to pre-cut and inspect rolls of

carpet before installation and to fabricate custom rugs.

According to Cunningham, the industry trend over the last few years has been less wall-to-wall carpet being installed in the home, especially on the first floor or even the basement,” he says.

“That has to do with the greater demand for hard surfaces like hardwood, LVT (luxury vinyl tile), ceramic/porcelain tile and natural stone,” says Cunningham. “At DeSitter, we are still selling quite a bit of carpet and even though the space for carpet is declining and staying on the upper levels like bedrooms, we are seeing a demand for better quality carpet instead.”

With the obvious growth in demand for hard surfaces like hardwood, LVT, tile and stone, Cunningham explains they accommodated the demand by increasing the space dedicated in the new Glen Ellyn location to these products.

In addition to formal training on the products, Cunningham says the professionals on staff have decades of experience. “Our staff consists of many who have been with us 10, 20, even 30-plus years. We’ve made a huge investment into training and it never stops,” he says. “Any new employee goes through extensive training that could take from weeks up to a month before they start.

We also invest in professional on-going training that could be in-house, at our corporate office/training facility, or off-site like at one of our manufacturing mills.”

According to DeSitter, the top three things that make the company unique and successful are “our people, our technology, and our ongoing commitment to reinvesting into our company.”

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“When customers come into our store, I don’t want them to feel intimidated or overwhelmed by what they encounter. I’m just a jeans and a sweatshirt kind of guy who happens to sell jewelry.”

— Wes Barrow Owner Larc Jewelers

Wes Barrow is owner of Larc Jewelers in Glen Ellyn. Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

Larc Jewelers

Glen Ellyn’s oldest established jewelry store is mindful to take a friendly, pleasent approach to business

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esley Barrow, owner of Larc Jewelers in Glen Ellyn, understands that shopping for jewelry can often be an intimidating experience. His unique approach to minimizing that stress for customers starts with him keeping things as casual as possible.

“It started out with casual Fridays, but over the last two to three years we have made casual dress the norm in our store,” explains Wes, who has owned Larc Jewelers for 15 of the last 26 years he has worked there. “I really want our customers to feel comfortable shopping with us.”

Carol Paul (top right) assists customer Eileen Smyth.

Bill Ackerman for Shaw Media

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Larcjewelers.com Gemstones Vintage & Estate Local Artists

Wes’s jewelry store handles a wide variety of specialties. Including rare gemstones, custom designs, wedding and engagement rings, watches, vintage and estate pieces. He also offers a large variety of gift items including knives, pens, minerals and fossils. There is an extraordinary and diverse selection available.

Handling the traditional services like retail, repair and appraisals, Wes says building a rapport with customers begins with great service and products. “I work very hard at trying to build a relationship with my customers. I want them to feel comfortable and have a great shopping experience.

Repeat and referral business is very important to us,” he says.

Finding success as a family-owned business often requires taking on more responsibility. The buying process for a jeweler is often one of the most important parts of the job. Clients want to know they can come to their jeweler and get whatever it is they need. According to Wes, he likes having the added tasks and being able to oversee all of the operations.

“Being family-owned, I don’t have to answer to a corporate office and that allows me to control the buying process.”

“Since we are a one-store operation, I can concentrate on buying the best quality available as well as being very selective when it comes to price.

And when it comes to customer service, I try to treat people the way I would want to be treated. I know what it’s like to be a customer too, and this store is the only place where I am on this side of the counter.”

Technology has certainly played a part in the evolution of the jewelry business, says Wes. The importance of websites and social media is evident and the Internet has made the jeweler’s world a lot smaller. That’s good for the consumer, he says.

“With the Internet, I have been able to meet gemstone dealers from all over the world. This brings me closer to the source and allows me to buy at significantly lower prices, which in turn saves my customers.”

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Over 82 years the Chamber has historically sponsored many community events. These events are rich with a tradition of family fun and affordable entertainment for the community at large.

The Chamber and the Community are very fortunate to have a host of volunteers from the business community that willingly give their time, talent and financial investment year after year to support Glen Ellyn.

Many of our local Chamber Members are businesses that are family owned and operated, and like all of our members they are committed to providing you the customer, with the level of personal service that is well known in our community and beyond.

To All We Say Thank You. We wish also to take this opportunity to invite you to attend the upcoming Chamber Community Events for 2016 Chamber Golf Outing – Monday, October 3rd..

Shredding Day – Saturday, October 15th.

Halloween Parade – Saturday, October 29th.

Fashion Show – Sunday, November 6th.

Chocolate, Cheese & Wine Tasting – Friday, November 18th.

Holiday Walk – Friday, November 25th.

For further information visit our web site at www.glenellynchamber.com or contact our office at 630 469 0907 “Connecting Business to the Greater Community” SM-CLS0263215

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