Real Producers of Oakland County May 2021 Issue

OAKLAND COUNTY

C O N N E C T I N G .

TOP PRODUCER

MELANIE S.

BISHOP Photo by Stylish Detroit

E L E VAT I N G .

I N S P I R I N G .

SPECIAL ISSUE

Moms Who Make It Happen

M AY 2 0 2 1

CVED 21897

We would like to thank the Realtor community for the opportunity of being the Realtors’

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2 • May 2021

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Oakland County Real Producers • 3

TAB LE OF

CONTENTS 07

08

13

Editor’s Note

Preferred Partners

Meet the Oakland County Real Producers Team

18

Top Producer: Melanie S. Bishop

26

Partner Spotlight: Stacey Grava Kraft, Achosa Home Warranty

28

33

36

40

Special Opportunities For You to Contriubte to Real Producers

Agent Spotlight: Christin Bracken

46

52

Agent Spotlight: Autumn Hicks

Agent Spotlight: Christine Winans

Rising Star: Tayleon Puryear

Dynamic Duo: Kristin Bond & Trisha Mell

around

town

58 Around Town

If you are interested in contributing or nominating someone for a feature, please email us at Chris.csotty@realproducersmag.com or Terra.csotty@realproducersmag.com.

DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a Real Producers but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the Oakland County Real Producers magazine are not endorsed or recommended by The N2 Company or the publisher. Therefore, neither The N2 Company nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies.

NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used in this publication.

4 • May 2021

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Oakland County Real Producers • 5

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Mortgage Loan Officer

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MOMS

WHO MA KE I T

editor’s note

HAPPEN In honor of Mother’s Day, this special issue showcases some very special women and celebrates the dynamic bond that working moms share with their families, colleagues and clients. You’ll read about amazing women at various stages in their personal and professional lives, and in each story, you’ll follow a unique journey of a working mom who “Makes It Happen” on her own terms — and in a way that works best for her and her family.

Top Producer Melanie S. Bishop, who has four children, five grandchildren and 35 years in the real estate industry, shares that motherhood is her most important job in life and reminds us that “much like motherhood, real estate is not an easy job.” Stacey Grava Kraft, senior sales executive at Achosa Home Warranty and single mom of a teenager, reflects upon how her approach to parenthood mirrors her approach to business in the way that it is grounded in trust and founded on “the power to choose.”

Rising Star Tayleon Puryear, who is in the early stages of her real estate career and a mom of three girls, recounts how challenging it was to initially build her business and how she eventually found the training, flexibility and support to thrive as both a full-time agent and a working mom.

Christin Bracken, who has over 15 years of real estate experience and three children, says that growing her real estate career while being a busy mom realproducersmag.com

is one of her greatest personal accomplishments and that “the balancing act” made her develop the skills and mindset to thrive in real estate. Dynamic Duo Kristin Bond and Trisha Mell, both of whom are hardworking, passionate moms with eight years of real estate experience, share how their equal business partnership and supportive relationship play a crucial role in their success.

Autumn Hicks, who began her real estate career as a single mom in 2013 and now has a blended family with her supportive partner, confesses that she is “just as imperfect as any other mom out there,” but that, somehow, she always manages and remains driven, just like her mother did. Christine Winans, a mom of two and grandmother of four, also reflects upon how she was inspired by the strong women who shaped her life path, which included two major careers before she entered the real estate industry in 2003.

The many different life journeys, perspectives, family situations and career paths in these stories magnify the diverse experiences of working mothers, yet, despite their many differences, at the heart of each of these stories is a mom abounding with the love and the motivation to “Make it Happen” for her family.

Happy Mother’s Day to all of the moms who are making it happen!

Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Managing Editor of Real Producers of Oakland County jane.asher@realproducersmag.com Oakland County Real Producers • 7

PREFERRED PARTNERS

This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate affiliate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible.

Please support these businesses, and thank them for supporting the real estate community!

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HOME BUILDER Lombardo Homes Melissa Cervin (586) 781-2316

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HOME WARRANTY Achosa Home Warranty (248) 303-7210

First State Bank Lisa Marie Pevac (586) 354-6797

INSURANCE Farm Bureau Insurance David Purvis (248) 644-6364

First State Bank Ken Ebaugh (248) 270-6278

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TAX PLANNING Your Tax Coach (810) 588-4646 TITLE COMPANY Alliance Title of Michigan Mary Reed (586) 238-4400

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Alliance Title of Michigan Kelly Anderson (586) 238-4400

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NEW CONSTRUCTION MORTGAGE Huntington Bank Sandi Frith (586) 871-8002

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Oakland County Real Producers • 9

10 • May 2021

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Fundraising Corporate Gifting Custom Etching Private Tastings ONEHOPE Wine is a charity based wine out of Napa Valley. Each bottle has a cause partner that it donates back to and we now have a tasting room as part of our vineyard!

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"Jeff and his entire team were professional and efficient in their work...He has my highest endorsement." Ryan Weiss @realproducers

MEET THE OAKLAND COUNTY REAL PRODUCERS TEAM

Chris Csotty Publisher

Terra Csotty Publisher

Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Managing Editor/Writer

Dina Ranieri

Relationship Manager

Jeanne Monillo Ad Strategist

April Shanne Subiera

Robbyn Moore

Amanda Matkowski Editor

Stylish Detroit Photographer/Videographer

Jermaine Buie

Jessica Laine Gouverneur

Sasha Marceta

Brandon Ramsay

Publishing Assistant/ Reprints Specialist

Perfect Light, LLC Photographer

Writer

Jessica Laine Photography Photographer

Skyview Experts Photographer/Videographer

Andy Schwartz

WayUp Media Photographer/Videographer

Night Cap is a great product that is helping me sleep! Terra met with me shortly after we messaged back and forth a few times about the product. Both Terra and ALL of the Cannacore products are amazing! Ten out of ten!

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Oakland County Real Producers • 13

announcement

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OAKLAND COUNTY

C O N N E C T I N G .

TOP PRODUCER

MELANIE S.

BISHOP Photo by Stylish Detroit

E L E VAT I N G .

I N S P I R I N G .

SPECIAL ISSUE

Moms Who Make It Happen

M AY 2 0 2 1

It’s a badge of honor to hold the printed version of Real Producers of Oakland County magazine in your hands. If you want all our issues wherever you go, download the Issuu app or visit www.issuu.com, and search Real Producers of Oakland County.

14 • May 2021

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event announcement

CARS & REAL ESTATE

STARS Car Show & Networking Event

Register your vehicle and/or yourself to attend our first in-person event of 2021!

Wednesday, May 19

3-5:00 p.m. *2:30 p.m. — Early entrance for people who are entering their vehicle in the car show*

Thank you to our Platinum Sponsors — GR Auto Gallery, Omega Lending and Alliance Title of Michigan — as well to our Silver Sponsors — Sandi Frith from Huntington Bank, Lombardo Homes, Cranbrook Custom Homes, Morse Moving & Storage, Total House Inspection, Jacque Gorris from Supreme Lending, Chet’s Cleaning and Detroit Mini Donuts.

GR Auto Gallery

3175 Martin Road, Commerce Township, MI 48390 GR Auto Gallery is a go-to classic and consignment dealer.

Check out their showroom at the event, which will feature a food truck, beverages, prizes and more!

Register at www.rpoaklandevents.com.

This is a private event for the Real Producers community — the Top Real Estate Agents and our Preferred Partners (no outside vendors). realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 15

16 • May 2021

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Oakland County Real Producers • 17

top producer

By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Photos by Stylish Detroit

18 • May 2021

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MELANIE S.

BISHOP A Fortitude for Family

Melanie S. Bishop hails from a family of “incredible salespeople,” so when she began selling shoes in her parents’ high-fashion shoe stores at the age of 12, she was not surprised by how quickly she developed a knack — and a love — for sales.

After spending a year at Eastern Michigan University as a political science major, 19-yearold Melanie got engaged and moved back home to return to the family shoe business, where she continued to work until she started her family in 1976. Then, in 1986, shortly after the birth of her third child, Melanie made a surprising decision that inadvertently changed the course of her life.

“Despite previously being in sales for years, I never had any interest in real estate, so when my friend Debbie suggested that we become real estate agents, I thought she was crazy,” Melanie said. As a result of her friend’s persistence, Melanie finally relented, and the two of them attended real estate school together. “I had no idea we were going to Real Estate One’s pre-licensing school or that we’d be joining them, but after getting licensed and spending a few weeks marketing, we partnered up and hit the ground running at Real Estate One,” Melanie said. “It all started by accident, but I was hooked from day one!”

After her first year as a part-time agent, Melanie left the partnership to venture out on her own, but she says she is forever grateful to Debbie for

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introducing her to the unexpected career that ended up defining her life path. In 1992, when Melanie became a single parent and sole supporter of her three children, she successfully transitioned to full-time. “Real estate enabled me to leave a deteriorated marriage, stand on my own and take care of my family by myself,” she said. “When my children were young, it was not easy to be at two places at once — there was a lot of compromise, but my children understood and were proud of me for keeping us all together and financially secure.”

In the years that followed, Melanie continued to increase her business and eventually became the #1 agent at Real Estate One/Max Broock - West Bloomfield until 2010 when she relocated to the company’s Bloomfield Hills Office, where she remains with the Max Broock brand to this day. As evidenced by her 35-year career volume of over $800 million, Melanie continues to thrive in the industry as a result of her hard work, integrity and professionalism. “Being successful in my own right and having the ability to make people’s dreams come true is all-important to me — my business now defines who I am,” she said. “I am always striving to be the best I can be for my clients.”

Oakland County Real Producers • 19

In 2016, Melanie paired up with her youngest son, Noah S. Bishop-Cohen. Noah and Melanie each maintain their own businesses; however, they cover for each other and band together to jointly market themselves through their “Two Generations of Sold” tagline. “Noah and I think and do business the same way and are totally in sync — he is truly a chip off the old block, and it is thrilling to see him follow in my footsteps and take our legacy into the future,” Melanie said. “I am aiming for him to take over and move forward someday but not in the near future … I don’t know what I would do without real estate.”

“ ”

MUCH LIKE MOTHERHOOD, REAL ESTATE IS NOT AN EASY JOB. IF WE MAKE IT LOOK EASY, IT’S BECAUSE WE’VE WORKED REALLY HARD TO BECOME GOOD AT IT. “With 35 years in the business, my mom has a wealth of knowledge — I had an amazing mentor prior to working with her but felt it was time to learn the ways of one of the top-producing real estate agents in the state,” Noah said. “The learning experience I get from her is amazing, but the greatest reward is the relationship we have created: We have always been close, but business has brought us closer.”

For the past 25 years, Melanie has been happily remarried to the man of her dreams, Arthur Solomon, and they have created a truly unified blended family, which includes their four children and five grandchildren: their son Aaron, his wife Christy and their daughter Emily; their daughter Jessica, her husband Joshua and their children Samantha and Jonah; their daughter Shayna, her husband Philip and their daughters Brooke and Abby; and their son Noah and his new wife Dana.

With the exception of Jessica and her family who live in Baltimore, Melanie’s entire family enjoys weekly Sunday night dinners together.

20 • May 2021

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Oakland County Real Producers • 21

Every other winter, Melanie takes her entire family on a vacation, and they never miss a holiday together, whether it is in person or on Zoom. “The most important thing to my mother is family — she puts family first, and you can always count on her,” Noah said. “She is the matriarch of our family and the glue that keeps us all together.”

Melanie loves Motown music, Barbra Streisand, romantic comedies and reading, but her greatest interest is her grandchildren. “My five grandchildren — four girls and one boy — are the light of my life,” Melanie said. “I want to be an integral part of their lives and make memories with them for a lifetime.” In honor of Melanie’s 16-year-old granddaughter, Brooke, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when she was 8, Melanie’s entire family supports JDRF, the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes research, and fundraises by participating in the JDRF One Walk® in September. Last year, despite the annual event being moved to a virtual platform, their team still raised $30,000. Melanie also supports a variety of Jewish organizations.

Melanie has always embraced motherhood as her most important “job” in life. “I am very different from my mother who was from a generation when women’s main focus was keeping their husbands happy,” she said.

“My children are my heart, and I did everything to make them self-sufficient, independent, confident and educated in order to equip them with tools for a fulfilling future — I feel very fortunate that I succeeded in this area.”

To Melanie, success — both in business and in life — is when you feel you are doing the best you can and when the results confirm that. “Much like motherhood, real estate is not an easy job,” she said. “If we make it look easy, it’s because we’ve worked really hard to become good at it.”

22 • May 2021

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24 • May 2021

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Oakland County Real Producers • 25

STACEY GRAVA KRAFT partner spotlight

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts Photos taken at Lombardo Homes Wynstone South in Oakland Township

Achosa Home Warranty Nurturing Relationships by Choice

26 • May 2021

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For five years, Stacey Grava Kraft has been building relationships with real estate agents and their clients, bringing them the best opportunities in a home warranty. Most recently, Stacey aligned herself with Achosa Home Warranty as a senior sales executive.

By definition, the word Achosa means “the power to choose.” The intention behind the group’s name is illustrated by their unshakable drive to provide customers with the power to select the best licensed contractors for their homes. “Customers can select and support local companies who they feel comfortable having in their homes,” Stacey said. “At Achosa, we pride ourselves on transparency and share with homeowners exactly what is covered, not covered and limits of what we pay. Once a claim is completed, we pay their contractors directly.”

The warranty group is a nontraditional home warranty company, which has set them apart from others, giving them a unique position above their competition. “Our team spent many years in the home warranty business prior to being founded in 2017,” Stacey explained.

“Our average net promoter score over the past year has been 76, and our customers have given us an average score of 9.4 out of 10.”

Along with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, Stacey has years of experience working in luxury retail and automotive sales.

“The reason I chose home warranty is probably because I’ve always liked helping people and solving problems,” Stacey explained. “I am very customer-service driven, and I love that my job never gets boring — no two days are ever the same, which keeps things interesting. Beyond that, I love the fact that I have made so many friends in this industry.”

By nature, Stacey is a problem solver who is committed to bringing peace of mind to both real estate agents realproducersmag.com

and homeowners. These personality traits are basic characteristics that are in direct alignment with her team at Achosa. An example of this was in 2017 when the founders of the organization saw an opportunity to create a more efficient business model where they could provide a better home warranty customer experience. “When claim issues arise with traditional home warranty companies, a homeowner will call in and wait to be assigned a contractor,” Stacey said.

“This could take a long time — it’s not uncommon to wait for a claim approval for days or a week. By that time, a homeowner may have been without heat or air conditioning for far too long. To us, that is simply unacceptable business practice. Therefore, we give homeowners the power to choose their own contractors, which greatly simplifies the claim process.”

As a single mother to her 16-year-old son Griffin, Stacey sees herself as a fairly laid-back mom. Her openminded approach to parenthood is grounded in trust and parallels with the Achosa mentality: allowing her son the power to choose. “I encourage my son to have his own thoughts and opinions, even when they differ from mine,” Stacey shared. “Most often, we agree on the same things, especially when it comes to traveling.

Whether it’s getting in the car for a 3,000-mile road trip or a quick weekend in northern Michigan to go snow skiing, we love traveling together.”

Stacey added, “Last year we took a spur-of-the-moment trip to Mt. Rushmore and the Badlands. I am so happy that he always asks for ‘experiences’ over materialistic things.”

son was sick and I had to miss work.” She advises other moms to not feel guilty when the house is messy or if the laundry piles up. “It can be overwhelming to balance it all, but my suggestion is to go with the flow and order takeout.”

As the oldest of three children and the only daughter, Stacey’s full-time working parents relied on her to help with her brothers. “I feel like I’ve always been a responsible, independent woman with basic maternal instincts,” Stacey said. “My role in my family prepared me to handle future challenges in life.”

Stacey said she has found success in friends and family, and achievements in a career that allows her to make a difference in the homeownership experience. “I am very fortunate to be with a company that supports and embraces values that are similar to my own,” she said. “Additionally, since working from home, things have been much more manageable, allowing me to focus on my clients and my son.” This past year, Stacey was able to enjoy watching her son play tennis and march in the Clarkston marching band.

“I want to be remembered as someone who made a positive impact on others,” Stacey said. “It is top of mind in my everyday work with my peers and clients, and as a mother.”

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Stacey’s work-life balance is much easier now that her son is a teenager; however, like many women who juggle a career and a family, Stacey faced her own challenges over the years. “I do remember stressing out when Griffin was younger,” Stacey recalled. “I remember days being stuck in traffic and was late to get my son at daycare or instances when my Oakland County Real Producers • 27

Tayleon

Puryear MOM ON

28 • May 2021

A MISSION

@realproducers

rising star

By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Photos by Jessica Laine Photography Photos taken at Toll Brothers - Reserve at West Bloomfield

In 2017, after having her third child and enjoying a stint as a stay-at-home mom, Tayleon Puryear knew that it would soon be time to go back to work, but she wasn’t enthused about the thought of returning to the healthcare field where she had spent 14 years rising up the ranks from a unit clerk to a financial representative.

“I was tired of working a nine-to-five, and I didn’t want to miss another field trip with my kids because I couldn’t find someone to cover my shift,” she said. “I literally spent all my free time searching beautiful homes on realtor.com and watching HGTV — especially ‘House Hunters’ — and envisioned myself doing that. So, I decided it was the time to finally pursue my lifelong passion of real estate and embark on a new career that would give me the fulfillment and flexibility I was looking for.”

After Tayleon discussed her plan with her support system — her husband, parents, brother and sisterin-law — they all agreed to pitch in by babysitting her three daughters so she could attend evening real estate classes. During that month-and-a-half, Tayleon disconnected from TV and social media and focused all her attention on caring for her family and passing her 40 hours of classes. She then decided to take a month to study for the state exam; however, a month turned into several months because money was tight for her single-income family of five, and she couldn’t afford to pay for the test. Fortunately, Tayleon’s father, who believed that Tayleon would succeed in her new career endeavor, gave her the money for the test, and she passed it on the first try.

she found the training, flexibility and support to thrive as both a full-time agent and a working mom. “When I switched to eXp Realty, my business literally exploded,” Tayleon said.

“When COVID-19 hit, and we had to do virtual learning with our kids, the MARK Z Team was exactly what I needed: I had business partners who supported me when I was home with my kids assisting with their education.” Tayleon is also grateful for the mentorship of Gogo Bethke. “Gogo came into my life at a time I needed the most confidence in being myself,” Tayleon said. “Now, I’m bold and don’t make excuses — it’s important to surround yourself with the right people.”

Despite her rocky start in real estate, Tayleon embraced the strong work ethic her parents and grandmother incited in her. She remained diligent and trusted that God would take care of her and shape a hopeful future for her and her family. “I understand

that something worth having is worth fighting for,” she said. “At the end of the day, I want to make my husband and my three beautiful girls proud; I want my girls to look up to me and know they can do anything they set their minds to.”

Tayleon’s hard work, faith and perseverance culminated in a breakout year in 2020: She sold 24 homes and over $4.6 million in volume — her highest-producing year to date — and she was named MARK Z Team Rookie of the Year, a milestone which she had on her 2020 vision board and an accomplishment which she says she has achieved by the grace of God. “Every year, my husband and I always create a vision board together and discuss our dreams and goals for the year,” she said. “Every year, just about everything is accomplished. …

Funny thing is, along with ‘Rookie of the Year,’ I also had Real Producers on my 2020 vision board.”

After receiving her license, Tayleon became a fulltime agent and worked day in and day out to build her business, but she lacked direction. “I sold one home my first year,” she said. “In retrospect, I realized that the 40 hours of classes taught me how to pass the test but not how to build a successful business.”

Given the challenges of her first year, Tayleon and her husband agreed that it would be best for her to return to a full-time job in the healthcare industry and do real estate part time for the next year in hopes that she could begin to build a thriving business and eventually return to being a full-time agent.

Then, in September of 2019, Tayleon joined MARK Z Real Estate Experts brokered by eXp Realty, where realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 29

2021 will also be a pivotal year for Tayleon: In February she became a solo agent with TLP Realty Group brokered by eXp Realty, and she was recently named one of the “Top 50 Michigan Real Estate Agents On Social Media” by PropertySpark. “There’s so much happening right now. I am excited and a little bit nervous, too,” she said. “I’ve learned to force myself to slow down and always keep my family first. I also make sure I am on my list because I know that when I take care of me, I’ll be at my best for my family.”

“Real estate is the gateway to all my dreams: I get to do what I love and that’s helping people. Even though I work more now than I did with my nine-to-five, it doesn’t feel like work because I genuinely love what I do,” Tayleon said. “I want to build this real estate empire so that I can pass it on to my children and literally bring in all my family in some way.”

“Don’t rule out the underdog — it’s not about how you started but how you finish.”

Tayleon and her husband, Terrance Puryear — a public speaker, business coach and self-published author — have been married for 14 years, and Tayleon says that Terrance is her best friend and #1 cheerleader. “Becoming a wife was a defining moment in my life,” Tayleon said. “I am thankful for my husband. …

Marrying the right person is crucial to your life and success.”

Motherhood has also shaped Tayleon into the woman who she is today. “The moment I became a mother, it was no longer about me — that’s when I really understood who God created me to be, and I live it out boldly,” she said. “Like my mother, who always worked hard to make sure my brother and I had everything we needed, I know that I am responsible for shaping my children. I want my girls to be educated, kind, hardworking and fearless, and I try to be the best example I can be to them.”

The Puryears regularly have family meetings to ensure everyone is on the same page. “My kids understand why mommy works so hard, but I am intentional about mommy-daughter time, family time and date nights with my husband,” Tayleon said. “We enjoy playing at the park, retail therapy, movie nights and traveling — as a family, we just love our time together.”

Tayleon and Terrance’s 13-year-old daughter Leah is an artist and interested in fashion design. Eleven-year-old Kennidy is the leader of the three who accomplishes anything she sets her mind on. Tiana, 6, is the “feisty one” of the bunch who says the darndest things. All three of Tayleon’s daughters have said that they want to follow in their mother’s footsteps and become real estate agents when they grow up.

30 • May 2021

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Oakland County Real Producers • 31

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Have YOU or one of your colleagues written a book?

If so, we’d like to consider you as a featured author for an upcoming issue. If chosen, you will have the opportunity to share some information about your published work and your writing journey with the local real estate community.

For additional information about Coach’s Corner and Beyond the Book publication opportunities, please contact Managing Editor Jane K. Asher at jane.asher@realproducersmag.com. realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 33

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Oakland County Real Producers • 35

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Jessica Laine Photography

CHRISTIN

BRACKEN

agent spotlight

When Life Imitates a Career

36 • May 2021

@realproducers

Photo by Eli Green Photography

realize her dream. It was around this time that Christin also found out she was pregnant. Knowing this, Christin was fueled with added enthusiasm to pursue her goals in real estate. Her family was growing, and her lifestyle was changing — she was moving in the right direction.

C

hristin Bracken has learned how to find solutions, overcome obstacles and navigate through a myriad of life events. When she was stranded on Mount Rainier for 10 days — trying to find her way out — the opportunity to learn a life lesson was one thing she did not lose.

Before she and her husband were engaged, they went to Washington for her work and decided to add a little adventure to their trip by taking a well-planned hike. However, when a storm set in, they became disoriented and struggled to find their way off the mountain.

By working as a team and using each other’s strengths, they found their way out. The experience brought to light their remarkable ability to rise above adversity as individuals and, together, as a team. While getting lost on a mountain was an unimaginable event, Christin found an appreciation for each day and an inner strength that has continued to guide her in her career and through difficult situations.

In 2005, after working and traveling for years as a manufacturer’s representative for heavy-duty equipment in the restaurant industry, Christin was ready to find a career that would produce quicker results. “It was time for me to find a job where I could control my outcome,” Christin explained. “I wanted to reap the rewards of my hard work and have the freedom to grow my business in ways that worked for my life.”

With encouragement from her husband, Christin considered a profession in real estate because of her passion for helping others, her interest in looking at home listings and her attraction to remodeling and design. She was ready to invest in herself and realproducersmag.com

Within a year, Christin had earned her real estate license, launched a new career and became a first-time mom. Since then, she has continued to grow her business and her family.

While her husband often traveled for his job, Christin managed to balance her responsibilities of raising three children, exceed her sales goals and deliver impeccable customer service to her clients. “I would have to say one of my greatest personal accomplishments would be continuing to grow my real estate career while having three kids,” she shared. “The balancing act could drive someone to quit; however, it made me develop my multitasking abilities and enhanced my prioritizing skills.”

With every child, Christin was able to take three-six months off of work to enjoy precious moments as a mother. “There aren’t many other jobs that would allow that type of freedom,” she said. “I fully appreciate the work/family flexibility that real estate has offered me.”

Now, with over 15 years of experience in real estate, Christin is a team leader at More Real Estate Group, which operates out of two offices at Real Estate One. She has a career volume that totals over $66 million and achieved her personal best in 2020 with a volume of 47 units and $14.5 million in sales. “Above everything else, I love helping others realize their dreams,” Christin said. “Buying or selling a home is a dramatic event in people’s lives, and I want to give the best experience possible. When I succeed at that, it’s just like Christmas to me. I’m a giver at heart, so it means everything to me to see someone light up when I can find the right home.”

Oakland County Real Producers • 37

Christin’s determination was the driving factor that led her to be the only college graduate in her family. To reach her goals, Christin relied on her competitive nature — with a sprinkle of stubbornness — to be her best. She also acknowledged that her success was motivated by those around her.

“My godfather was a business owner who was very inspiring to me as I was growing up,” Christin recalled. “I would often consult him through my business careers; he was an excellent guide that steered me in the right direction.”

Christin’s mother also played a very influential role in her life by showing her the importance of taking care of others. “My mother is probably the most giving person I know,” Christin said. “She is a wonderful Christian and a great friend to so many people. To this day, she still randomly asks others if there are things she can do for them or if there are any needs she can provide.”

Photo by Eli Green Photography

Photo by Eli Green Photography

38 • May 2021

Christin’s influence of hard work and compassion has been poured into her clients and her business. Her dedication is evident in her sales achievements and her growing firm. “Right now, I’m most passionate about growing my business,” she said. “I want to fine-tune my processes and finally treat myself to an assistant!”

Given Christin’s kindhearted personality, her greatest fulfillment from work is not only helping homeowners realize their dreams, but it’s also helping new team members build up their business. When Christin co-founded More Real Estate Group, there were only two agents covering each other’s business when they were on vacation. Over the years, the friendships grew and the teamwork expanded. They now have 14 agents across two Real Estate One offices in Troy and Milford. “We can easily cover Western Livingston, Oakland, Macomb and Wayne Counties because of where our team members live,” Christin explained.

In addition to Christin’s dedication to her work, her family remains paramount to her daily life. Together with her husband Marc, their three children and two German Shorthair Pointers, they enjoy camping, rock collecting, fishing, painting and swimming at the lake. “We find what is exciting wherever we go,” Christin said. “My boys are very active in scouting, and Marc and I are both scout leaders. My daughter plays volleyball, and I’m happy to say, I’ve never missed a game.” As a result of COVID-19, the Bracken family took advantage of their extra time together and decided to enroll in karate. They recently all earned their green belts.

Along with her family, Christin also dedicates her time to nonprofit organizations such as Smile Train, The Village Elves and Habitat for Humanity. “Children pull on my heartstrings,” Christin said. “I will be forever grateful to have three healthy, happy and intelligent children. I give to the Smile Train to help those with cleft lips and The Village Elves to help those in the Huron Valley School system that need assistance during the holidays and, most recently, all year long.”

Christin wants to be remembered for being kind. “We only get one chance on earth,” she said. “You don’t know why you meet who you do, but there is a reason, so always be kind, listen and see where it leads.”

Christin attributes her real estate achievements to those who influenced her as well as life events that shaped her. “I learned that being consistent, going the extra mile and listening to others — and your gut — will always lead to success.” @realproducers

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Oakland County Real Producers • 39

Kristin Bond& Trisha Mell

dynamic duo

By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Photos by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts Photos taken at Toll Brothers - Reserve at West Bloomfield

Founded on Friendship, Focused on Family

Kristin Bond and Trisha Mell both started their real estate careers as independent agents in 2013 and coincidentally both made the decision to join a team a few years later, which is where they ended up meeting, closely working together and discovering how much they had in common with one another. By 2020, Kristin and Trisha were both ready to venture back out on their own, but, given their history of helping and supporting one another — and their blossoming friendship — they were intent on moving forward together. So, in February 2020, they decided to return to their original broker, Chuck Reaume at CENTURY 21 AAA North, and form The Bond + Mell Group, an equal partnership wherein Kristin and Trisha share marketing costs and jointly promote themselves yet maintain their own books of business.

“The fact that we are not only both equally invested but also that we will both reap the rewards of our investment makes our partnership successful and exciting,” Kristin said. “I know that Trisha can step in for me, and my clients are going 40 • May 2021

@realproducers

to receive the same level of service I would provide to them.”

“We both have the same expectations for how we conduct our business, and we possess similar work ethics and value a rewarding work-life balance — and we actually do like each other!”

Trisha said. “Finding a partner in this competitive industry who encourages you and is genuinely happy for you rather than being jealous of your successes is valuable and rare.

Kristin has selflessly given her knowledge and time to help grow my business and me as an agent, and I am truly grateful.”

Prior to entering the real estate industry, Kristin worked as a director of marketing and property management, so her social media and marketing experience — along with her commitment to self-education and constant growth — enables her to discern trends and implement best practices in real estate. Kristin also assisted in managing their previous team, so she possessed the necessary insight and knowledge to establish a successful partnership with Trisha. Previously an advertising account director, Trisha is a reliable, self-motivated business partner.

Additionally, Trisha and Kristin bring eight years of successful real estate experience to their partnership: Trisha has a career volume of over $18 million, Kristin’s career volume is over $26 million and both of them were productive members of a team that earned DOUBLE CENTURION and GRAND CENTURION awards from 2014-2017.

Leaving their previous team, where they had no financial risk or overhead, and taking on the intimidating task of building a new brand was certainly the greatest challenge that Kristin and Trisha faced together; however, they now recognize that establishing The Bond + Mell Group was undoubtedly the best decision they could have made for themselves, their businesses and their families.

From the onset of their partnership, Kristin and Trisha, who feel that their clients’ accolades are the biggest measure of their success, have strived to ensure that every client feels happy with realproducersmag.com

the level of service they received.

More so, Trisha and Kristin are proud that they not only have built a brand founded on stellar service but also that they have been able to do so while taking care of the most important part of their lives: their families.

Trisha and her husband, Scott, have a blended family of four children — Palmer, 17, Ayden, 17, Finn, 13, and Jackson, 12 — who attend four different schools, as well as two dogs. Needless to say, many of Trisha’s days are unpredictable and a bit chaotic at times; however, Trisha — who has completed 13 marathons, including Boston, New York and Chicago — is the type of person who thrives on challenge.

“In 2015, as my career was taking off and right before I remarried, my children’s father passed away, and Scott immediately stepped in to take care of us,” Trisha said.

“Financially, I honestly have the option to stay at home and devote myself to being a full-time mom, but I’ve always felt the personal responsibility to do my part — and I love my career and real estate.”

Additionally, by having a career that she’s passionate about, Trisha is setting an example for her kids.

“In some ways, it makes me a better mom and, hopefully, inspires them to pursue their passions. My biggest wish for them is to all become happy, well-balanced, independent adults.”

Trisha’s family time includes snowboarding whenever they get the opportunity, attending Jackson’s and Ayden’s soccer matches, watching Finn develop his acting skills and build his social media following, listening to Palmer’s performances with the Notre Dame Prep Marching Band and traveling to some really fun places in the world. In addition to running, Trisha also likes to spend her free time golfing.

Oakland County Real Producers • 41

Since the beginning of her career, Kristin knew that she wanted to be both a mom and a businesswoman, and she is so grateful that real estate has afforded her the flexibility and time to care for her family as well as provide for them. Kristin and Jeff, her partner of over 15 years, have two boys — Colin, 6, and JJ, 4 — and Kristin, who says she had a great childhood, wants her children to make amazing memories and live life to the fullest. “Colin, who has a speech delay and sensory processing disorder (SPD), has truly taught me that in order to make sure that happens, I have to be a strong advocate for my children at all times,” she said. “And the truth is, moms really do just know their kids and what’s best for them. I will always stand up for my boys and make sure that they are on whatever path they want or need to be on to be successful in their own way.”

FINANCIALLY, I HONESTLY HAVE THE OPTION TO STAY AT HOME AND DEVOTE MYSELF TO BEING A FULL-TIME MOM, BUT I’VE ALWAYS FELT THE PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY TO DO MY PART — AND I LOVE MY CAREER AND REAL ESTATE.

Kristin’s family time includes a lot of outdoor time with her boys — Colin and JJ love the water and spending summer days at their nana’s house in Lake Orion, on their grandpa’s boat in Port Huron, or at their grandma and grandpa’s cottage in Caseville.

Kristin and her family also enjoy traveling to her dad’s condo in Florida and to Scotland to see her family. “Oh, and, I wouldn’t be 100% honest if I didn’t mention how much I love shopping and wine!”

Kristin said. “Also, as a boy mom, I love girls’ days with my nieces and doing the girly stuff that I don’t get to do with my own kids.”

Kristin and Trisha both operate with a family-first mentality and acknowledge how challenging it is to balance motherhood and a full-time career. “Being a mom is a full-time job in itself, so adding on another demanding career can be very tough at times,” Kristin said.

“In this industry, it is very easy to work 24/7 and be at the mercy of your clients, but, over time, it has become easier to manage. I find that I am better in all equities of my life when I give the right attention to each, but it is something I have to be mindful of at all times.”

These two hardworking, passionate moms also know that they are better equipped to manage life’s demands — and thrive in business — simply because they support, encourage and celebrate one another.

42 • May 2021

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46 • May 2021

@realproducers

agent spotlight

By Robbyn Moore Photos by Stylish Detroit

Hicks Autumn

Motivated by Example

averaging more than $5 million in annual sales as a real estate agent at Keller Williams Advantage. In 2017, she was recognized by the Women’s Council of REALTORS® 275 Corridor as REALTOR® of the Year, and was the president of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® in 2019. Autumn is also a member of the Farmington Area Jaycees, which is a leadership organization that focuses on community projects and leadership development.

As the daughter of a mother who is white and a father who is black, Autumn has faced various struggles of acceptance from her peers and her extended family. “Initially, my parents’ relationship did not sit well with some of our family members,” Autumn shared. “However, the adversities I faced growing up shaped me as a professional. It built up my character and a strong sense of empathy for others — a trait I embrace and utilize for the benefit of my clients.”

As a young, impressionable girl, Autumn Hicks adoringly watched her mother raise a family and successfully run a business. When her mother moved her business from the family basement to an office in downtown Plymouth, Autumn and her siblings would visit their mother and admire her ability to manage deadlines and get things done. “It was a special occasion to visit our mom at work,” Autumn recalled. “I would watch her interact with other people and delight in how they would respond and look up to her. I remember feeling like I wanted to be just like her.”

small business and a family. “She was just living her life,” Autumn said. “I don’t think she realized it at the time, but her choices were shaping me in ways that would later prepare me for a career and a family. As an adult, I still look to her for guidance.”

Not surprisingly, Autumn attributes much of her personal success to her mother, who demonstrated the skills and knowledge needed to manage a

Since 2013, Autumn has been building a successful career in real estate. Her nurturing nature has made her a standout among fellow agents and a trusted source with her clients. She’s currently

realproducersmag.com

Autumn’s kindhearted, detail-oriented personality led her to look for a career where she could nurture others and fight for the underdog. As a single mother, she initially explored a career in healthcare and attended nursing school. She would go to class during the day while working nights at restaurants and bars, oftentimes also cleaning homes to earn extra income. “I was getting perfect grades, but I quickly burned out,” Autumn said. “That lifestyle wasn’t sustainable for my sanity, so at the advice of my mother, I decided to get my real estate license.”

As Detroit continues to expand its diversity, Autumn is very passionate about promoting the city and all the benefits it can bring to families, businesses and the community. “I am adrenalized about diversity and what that means for our industry,” she said.

“My agency has a diversity committee that meets twice a month to discuss how we can make an impact in meaningful, inclusive ways. As a person of color, the meetings have been incredibly therapeutic for me, and the number of people who show up to participate is incredible and inspiring; it feels great to have that kind of support in our real estate office.”

The most rewarding aspect of Autumn’s work is the confidence she has gained over the years. “I didn’t realize what I was capable of handling in one day until I started my career in real estate,” she said, laughing. “Even so, there is a huge mindset switch that happens when you start learning how to balance your work life and your home life; I am no expert, but I have become better at it over time.”

Oakland County Real Producers • 47

Autumn said that, at one point in her career, she took a step back to evaluate what made her happiest in life. “I realized that I was taking on the wrong responsibilities, and my goals weren’t aligned at all with who I was as a human,” she shared. “I discovered I work best when I lead with my heart and keep my values at the forefront — the rest of the stuff is meaningless noise.”

With her priorities aligned and a shift in mindset, Autumn has not only achieved her personal goals but also those of her clients. “I love the feeling I get when I’ve helped someone fulfill their dream of homeownership,” Autumn said. “Whether it’s a home for personal use or an investment, I know that my role in the process is important, and I take that very seriously.”

Because Autumn is hardwired to go the extra mile for her clientele, she is dedicated to coaching her clients in the homebuying and selling process and assists in necessary steps to achieve success. “I work as a team with my clients and, together, we come out of the process as a family,” she said.

When it comes to her own family, Autumn is extremely attentive and unyielding. Her partner Andrew is a great source of support to Autumn and her work, and they enjoy life together as a blended family. “Thank 48 • May 2021

goodness for Andrew,” Autumn said with a smile. “He’s my partner in crime, a great dad and full of fun. He helps me balance my personal and professional life and knows when it’s time to take me away from work.” Autumn’s oldest daughter Lucy is 15 years old and full of everything that comes with being a teenager. “She is an amazing golfer, beautiful and smart,” Autumn said. “She does the usual teenager things and, quite often, reminds me of myself at her age.” Andrew’s 6-year-old daughter Aria is in first grade and loves chemistry experiments, crafts and YouTube. Together, Autumn and Andrew have a son, Jackson, who is 2 years old.

“He is the strongest kid on earth,” Autumn shared.

“He can do pull-ups and push-ups, and loves to hang out with his dad and do yard work.”

For Autumn, balancing motherhood and having a successful career has not come without its challenges. Seldom does a day go by when she’s not feeling the stress of how to give the best of herself to work and at home. “I am just as imperfect as any other mom out there,” Autumn explained. “I am not an expert on balance, but somehow I always get it all done, even if I sometimes feel like I am on autopilot.”

Lately, Autumn has found relief in meditation and breathing exercises. “It is literally the only thing that lifts the weight off my shoulders,” she said.

“I feel light and free after I meditate; it frees my mind and my spirit.”

Autumn said her family is the “why” in her life and can’t imagine any force that could motivate her more than her family. “My family keeps me on

track,” she said. “I love my career and working hard for my clients, while at the same time, nothing makes me happier than being a mother and having a family. As a little girl, I saw that same drive in my mother, and for that, I’m very grateful.” @realproducers

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agent spotlight

By Jane K. Asher, Ph.D. Photos by Sasha Marceta with Skyview Experts

Christine Winans A PATH PAVED WITH GREAT POTENTIAL AND POSSIBILITY

52 • May 2021

@realproducers

Christine Winans’ personal and professional path was paved by the guidance and inspiration of many strong women who cultivated her knowledge, skills, positive mindset, drive and work ethic. As a result, Chris thrived as a working mom in a variety of careers and leadership roles, including sales, management and executive director positions, before she entered real estate — her third major career — in 2003.

Growing up in Detroit, Chris was influenced by her mother, who got divorced in the 1960s and raised four children, ages 4-14, by herself, while also working hard to build a 30-year career at Comerica, where she started as a teller and rose up the ranks to a bank manager.

After graduating from SouthfieldLathrup High School, Chris continued her education as a music major at Oakland University; however, she realized she did not want to perform or teach music, so she then transferred to Michigan State University where she pursued a degree in TV and radio, met her husband, and, as a result of her job at WILS radio in Lansing, discovered how much she loved working.

Entertainment Publications, embarked on her second major career in 1996 when she became the executive director of what is now the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber. Chris traces her political prowess to her grandmother, Lois Nair, who ran for a Republican seat in Michigan’s 14th Congressional District in 1958, 1960 and 1962 as one of two female congressional candidates in the U.S. Inspired by her grandmother and fueled by her drive to make a positive impact on the community, Chris led the chamber’s growth from 250 to 650 members over the course of the eight years she served as executive director.

After becoming more politically active and running for Michigan State Representative in the 2002 primary, Chris grew increasingly frustrated by the anti-development agenda of Birmingham leadership and decided that it was time to seek a new career.

So, when Ronni Keating with Snyder Kinney Bennett & Keating Real Estate — now Signature Sotheby’s — reached out to Chris and suggested real estate, Chris enthusiastically embarked on a third successful career, in which she has now sold over $161 million in the past 17 years.

Chris started her real estate career with Weir Manuel. In 2006, she moved to Hannett Wilson & Whitehouse — now Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices HWWB, REALTORS® — and teamed up with her husband, Dan Winans, who got his license after retiring from his 30-year

career at Xerox. Chris has distinguished her success in the industry by receiving the Chairman’s Circle Gold Award from 2012-2020, the BHHS 5-Year Legend Award from 2013-2018 and the title of Hour Detroit Real Estate All-Star from 2013-2020. She was also named “Business Woman of the Year” by the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Birmingham-Bloomfield in 2008.

“This is my last career — I will always be a real estate agent,” Chris said. “I am fortunate that my daughter, Regan, has joined me in real estate and is, perhaps, my retirement plan. … if I ever do retire … frankly, Regan doesn’t think I will ever retire.”

Chris’ daughter, Regan Gilshire, who had been living in Ohio for 10 years and had established her career in office and sales management, moved back to Michigan and joined The Winans Real Estate Team in 2012.

Regan initially came on board as the team’s assistant, but after about a year, she decided to get her real estate license and embark on a new career as the team’s buyer’s agent.

In addition to being raised by a hardworking single mom, Chris was surrounded by strong, female entrepreneurs during her first major career at Entertainment Publications, publishers of the popular coupon books, where she worked for 16 years and eventually became the District Manager of the Detroit sales operation.

Chris, who served on the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for several years while working at realproducersmag.com

Oakland County Real Producers • 53

In May 2020, The Winans Real Estate Team moved to Real Living Kee Realty in Troy, and Real Estate Agent Joe Miller, Regan’s close friend, joined the team. “Honesty and ethics are the backbones of our business,” Chris said. “We all want the same thing: to close every transaction smoothly and successfully.”

As a child, Regan remembers going into the office with her mom and helping her collate or stuff envelopes. “My mother was the epitome of the 80s working mom — I saw my mom giving 110% at all times in her work,” Regan said. “My mother didn’t influence my professional path as much as she influenced my work ethic: I started working at a small diner in Northville when I was 15, and at 19, I became her assistant when she was the executive director of the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce. I often joke that she had me to have the perfect assistant one day.”

All joking aside, Regan, who is now at the age when her friends are losing their grandparents and parents, knows how blessed she is to see her mother and father on a daily basis.

“Yes, my mom is a workaholic, but she’s always there when I need her ... and that is the best thing any mother can do,” Regan said.

Much like how Chris’ mother and grandmother shaped her path and inspired her to seize life’s many opportunities, Regan says that her mother has always encouraged her to take risks, go out in the world and experience as much as possible. “She also taught me the importance of charity and kindness,” Regan said.

Chris and Regan are both members of the Rotary Club of Birmingham — Chris is a past-president, and Regan is the current treasurer. “I’m proud to say that I am a third-generation female Rotarian, which is rare since women were only permitted into Rotary in 1987. My maternal grandmother was the first to join a Rotary 54 • May 2021

club, then my mother in the late 90s, and then me in 2014,” Regan said.

In their free time, Chris and Dan like to escape to the house they built on La Salle Island in the Upper Peninsula. Chris loves to fish, read business and personal improvement books — she belongs to Books & Bubbly, a book club comprised of real estate agents, which is organized by Brenda Brosnan and supported by Summit Funding, Inc. — and spend time with her family. Her son, Peter, and his wife, Kristen, and Chris’ four grandchildren live in the Baltimore area. “It’s been difficult to physically see them over the past year, so we have lived in a Zoom life,” Chris said.

“I am looking forward to having the grandkids visit in the summer.”

Chris knows that balancing motherhood and a successful career is no easy feat and that her husband was — and is — instrumental in all of her accomplishments. “A career is a choice I made many years ago with the support of Dan from the very beginning — I thank my husband and my children for helping me make it a successful choice,” Chris said. “It really is a partnership, and I don’t

know if I could ever have done this without Dan’s support. We split our responsibilities — yes, Dan did laundry and I cooked. … I think I know every recipe that can be made in 30 minutes or less.”

Chris also acknowledges that motherhood today is much more challenging than it was when she entered the workforce as a working mom. “I am not sure I could have been successful in today’s world,” she said. “My best advice for working moms is to breathe and stop trying — it is going to be what it is.” @realproducers

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58 • May 2021

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Traditionally, when we think of May and Mother’s Day celebrations, visions of flowers, sunshine, and goodies lavished upon our beloved mothers and mother figures come to mind. While those visions are beautiful and well-deserved sentiments, they cannot always be reality; in some cases, mothers and children find themselves unable to celebrate together, whether due to health, distance, or other difficulties. May is the month of mothers, so consider trying one or more of these alternative ways to honor moms this month!

Spoil a New or Single Mom:

We cannot deny that mothers are the lifeblood of the family … and they definitely need a break sometimes! Do you know a single or brand-new mama who could use some pampering? Volunteer to babysit, and let her take the afternoon off to take a nap, eat a quiet meal, go to a yoga class, or get a facial – whatever she needs! Bring over her favorite coffee or wine, or make dinner for the whole family, so she doesn’t have to cook.

Practice Meaningful Self-Care:

If you are a mother yourself, give yourself a pat on the back for all the hard work you’ve done this year: remote work, school closures, financial stress, housework, health worries, or all of the above. Give yourself permission to step away from the drudgery and do things this month to support your emotional, spiritual, and physical health, whether that’s a daily swim or walk, long naps, a weekend away, or just space to process.

Donate to a Worthy Cause:

A beautiful way to honor a much-missed mother or mother figure is to make a generous donation in her name to a cause or organization that was near to her heart. You might also seek out a local women’s and children’s shelter or human trafficking or domestic violence organization, particularly as they attempt to recover lost funding from COVID times. International and national organizations such as Feeding America, Planned Parenthood, UNICEF, Moms Demand Action, Girls Inc., and Baby2Baby could also use your bequest to help support and uplift communities of women in need.

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Oakland County Real Producers • 63