Touch of Grayce strives to differentiate itself by providing what Grayce calls “a welcoming place” with personal touches like student discounts and free gift wrapping. Student employees make up the majority of staff. They often stay several years and become close friends, says Grayce. “It really makes me feel good about people working here.” As a college student, Grayce bought her music from Buzzo’s and cookbooks from Sundance Books, where Fred is manager. Grayce says Buzzo and Sundance owner Barry Caplan inspired the way she runs her own business with emphasis on making customers and employees happy. The reason Grayce appreciates their business ideals is simple: “They lead from the heart.”
Grayce, left, and Fred.
Neal, left, and Tammy.
Royaltees 90 Main St. Alumni owners: Neal ’83 and Tammy Wycoff ’89 Moynihan Majors: Neal, Communication Tammy, Secondary English and Math Open since: 1985 lways into art, Neal liked creating original t-shirts. People liked his designs, they sold well during sidewalk sales on Main Street and people needed shirts. It was a good fit. Neal opened Royaltees first in a Main Street basement and lived in a small attached apartment with a hot plate and a mini fridge. He did all his own screen printing and washed the screens out in his shower. “It was pretty humble, pretty humble,” laughs Neal. He invested what he made into the business and it grew. The Moynihans say they’ve done well because they’ve stayed with their original focus — Geneseo-themed clothing and gifts. Neal still chooses the designs and screen prints some in house. Now is a fun time because their old college friends are at the age where they stop by on campus tours, orientation or visits with their own children. The Moynihans’ son, Ryan, is a freshman. “There are a lot of proud legacies. Geneseo has a pretty special place in a lot of people’s hearts,” says Neal. “… We feel very lucky that we were able to raise our family in a neat little town where we can make a living surrounded by college students, who we were, too.”
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View alumni-owned businesses on a Main Street map and more photos online. go.geneseo.edu/alumnibiz
Winter 2012
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