Womens Small Business Month

October is "National Women's Small Business Month” and was created to celebrate the growth and accomplishments of female entrepreneurs and to recognize the vital role they play in our economy. The Economic & Business Development Commission (EBDC) is taking the opportunity to recognize women business owners in Hillsborough. The EBDC has invited all Hillsborough women business owners in the Hillsborough Business Association (HBA) to share a few details of their business by completing a questionnaire. These business owners’ responses will be released on the Hillsborough Business Association Facebook page, the Township’s website and in the Mayor’s e-newsletter. Additionally, October will feature weekly "Q&A Profiles" of successful female business owners in Hillsborough.

Spotlight

Hillarie Scannelli - IMPACT Training

This week's spotlight is on Hillarie Scannelli of IMPACT Training.

Q: Tell us a little about your business model/service and your target client.

A: We have a 4,800 sq. ft. facility that specializes in personal training, elite athlete training, bootcamps, weight-loss and nutrition. We have a wide variety of talented certified trainers to work with every age group and fitness level. So for the mother who wants to get back to her pre-baby weight -- or the football player trying to gain muscle and strength to improve performance -- or the woman in her early 70s who wants to promote healthy bone density while working on core strength and balance -- or the businessman who wants to train safely with weights without getting hurt because it's been a while since he worked out... we have the perfect trainers. We are NOT an open gym so all sessions are by appointment only or while participating in our posted Unlimited Training group sessions. We feel great about offering a unique and personalized experience to our clients so they can reach their fitness goals.

Debbie Norz of Norz Hill Farm & Market

Debbie's initial thoughts when invited to participate in the Q&A Series, were "Although honored to be chosen to talk about being a woman business owner, this is a family business that I work with my husband and children. We all work together to make Norz Hill Farm & Market what it is today."

"With Debbie's comments noted, and with this being a busy time of year as the farm gears up for October hayrides and corn mazes, the EBDC thanks Debbie for taking a few minutes to answer our questions,” stated EBDC member Janine Erickson.

Tina Rear of Scrap U & Artistry Too

This week's spotlight is on Tina Rear of Scrap U & Artistry Too.

Q: Tell us a little about your business model/service and your target client.

A: Scrap U & Artistry Too is the area's premier destination spot for you to explore all of your creative interests including drawing, painting, mixed media, ceramic painting, jewelry making, sewing, scrapbooking, toddler art, tie dye, clay, wood painting & more for all ages! Check our website for all of our programs.

Q: What is your business background prior to owning this business?

A: I have always been an entrepreneur. I started my first business when I was 21 years old. Most notably in 1995, I founded a non-profit for families of children with special needs called Care-to-Share Support Network, which I ran in Hillsborough and proudly raised money that went to good use for the special needs programming here in town. And now, here I am, it's been almost 7 years and I still love what I do!

October is "National Women's Small Business Month,” created to celebrate the growth and accomplishments of female entrepreneurs and to recognize the vital role they play in our economy. The Economic & Business Development Commission (EBDC) is taking the opportunity to recognize women business owners in Hillsborough. The EBDC has invited all Hillsborough women business owners in the Hillsborough Business Association (HBA) to share a few details of their business

Get to know Ada Young, Owner of The Little Gym.

Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business and why did you choose Hillsborough?

A: In 2016 we saw the need for a KIDS-centric enrichment center in Hillsborough. We picked Hillsborough because of its family-friendly environment and presence of other kids-related recreational services. The Little Gym is unique because of its teaching philosophy and deep traditions of "let kids be kids" approach when it comes to physical skill and motor development as well as early childhood enrichment. Needless to say, it was a good decision that we picked Hillsborough as it is indeed a friendly, safe, and fast-growing town with young families and children.

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved…what motivates you every day?

A: Happy faces on kids, parents, grandparents, and caregivers' faces. Everyone is happy!

Q: What is the best advice you have been given? What advice would you give to a woman looking to start her own business?

A: Be devoted to delighting your customers. Hire people with good character. Treat everyone like your own family.

The Little Gym

133 Stryker Lane

Hillsborough, NJ 08844

(908) 420-9440

Website

Facebook

Get to know Arva Sura, Owner of Insta Crystal.

Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business and why did you choose Hillsborough?

A: We started this business in February 2019 and set up in Hillsborough in June 2020, this is a family business of mine and I am a 3rd Generation in this line. I got married and moved to the USA and now that my kids have grown up, I realized it was time to do something that I enjoy. The biggest reason for choosing Hillsborough is the proximity to my family. I absolutely love this town because the people are so warm and welcoming.

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved…what motivates you every day?

A: We are in the business of appreciating hard work, celebrating memorable events and making memories last forever. This is what kept us going in spite of all the challenges we face. We feel honored to be a part of such memories.

Q: What is the best advice you have been given? What advice would you give to a woman looking to start her own business?

A: The best advice I was given was to have patience and give it your best. My advice to other women is be patient and give it your best and just do it.

Insta Crystal

3 Jill Court , Building #15, Unit 2

Hillsborough, NJ 08844

(551) 261-3400

Faccebook

Get to know Barbara Kelly, Owner of All About Balance, LLC.

Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business and why did you choose Hillsborough?

A: My business opened in March 2017, starting small within another gym providing Rock Steady Boxing classes to people with Parkinson's disease, which helps them improve function and be more active. I chose Hillsborough because it's my hometown, and it is such a large community. I wanted to bring this unique program and opportunity to the area for our residents living with Parkinson's. The success of this program has led us to expand to offering Boxing for Balance classes for seniors and others who need help with their balance or to prevent falls.

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved…what motivates you every day?

A: I never had any idea that the work of owning a small business would be this hard, but the smiles on the faces of our clients, and their willingness to show up and work hard because they know the program is helping them in so many aspects of their life, makes it all worthwhile. It is satisfying to see people reach their potential and achieve goals they didn't think they could, especially when they felt there was no hope.

Q: What is the best advice you have been given? What advice would you give to a woman looking to start her own business?

A: I have been given a lot of advice, but getting a mentor to help you, especially for the skills of running a business that you do not have experience with, has probably been the best. Reaching out for support, from other business owners, especially within the community has been a great help. Just keep making connections!

All About Balance LLC

170 Township Line Rd, Bldg 2

Hillsborough NJ 08844

(908) 369-4949

Website

Facebook

Get to know Dr. Marion Rollings, PhD BC-TMH, Owner of Counseling & Psychotherapy.

Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business and why did you choose Hillsborough?

A: March 2018, I live in Hillsborough and have many Hillsborough patients. For the convenience of all and to better serve my community.

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved…what motivates you every day?

A: Helping others work through their problems and find peace and happiness.

Q: What is the best advice you have been given? What advice would you give to a woman looking to start her own business?

A: Dream big, start small, build a solid foundation and be willing to work hard.

Owner of Counseling & Psychotherapy

101 New Amwell Road

Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844

(908)500-7295

Website

Get to know Janet Kuebler, owner of Committed Care Solutions, LLC dba Right at Home.

Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business and why did you choose Hillsborough?

A: We purchased an existing Right at Home franchise in June of 2007 after providing care for family members. Organizing that care made us realize how difficult, challenging and overwhelming the process can be. We provide care in Somerset and Hunterdon Counties so we needed a town located between the two counties, with easy access to the train station and easy for caregivers to find. Hillsborough provided that location. After renting through most of 2018, we purchased an office in the Omni Drive complex. Hillsborough is our office home!

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved…what motivates you every day?

A: Our clients, they need our care and support each day. We make a difference in our clients' lives each and every day.

Q: What is the best advice you have been given? What advice would you give to a woman looking to start her own business?

A: Work toward your goal of opening a business everyday. Don't compromise your integrity to make a sale. For anyone looking to start a business, use the free resources available from the Small Business Association. Mentors are available to help you get your business started. You can make appointments with consultants who can help you with your daily business operations. Find a mentor in your business category who will help you to avoid mistakes others have made.

Committed Care Solutions, LLC dba Right at Home

105 Omni Dr

Hillsborough, NJ 08844

(908) 281-7961

Website

Get to know Kim osterhoudt, Owner of Jams by Kim.

Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business and why did you choose Hillsborough?

A: My business opened in Sept 2009, and at the time I was living in Belle Mead, but I needed a PO Box address since I use a commercial kitchen to produce my jams, so Hillsborough had everything I needed. I have used my Hillsborough address throughout the life of my business. I love making Jams, and I made my first jam at age 12. I always enjoyed procuring fresh local produce and making Jams and Jellies. When I was laid off in 2009, my friends and family encouraged me to sell the jams I had been making and giving as gifts for years. Much to my surprise, after setting up the business and securing the appropriate health department approvals, my customers really enjoyed my Jams too. It’s an amazing feeling when customers come closer for more and share their stories about how much they enjoy my products. Being in business full time for eleven years doing something you love is a great feeling.

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved…what motivates you every day?

A: My customers, they just keep coming back. I sell online at my website and at the Duke Farms Farm to Table market on Sundays. I am also selling at the Montclair farmers market on Saturdays, and my Jams are available at Just Jersey in Morristown, Dogwood Farms in Basking Ridge, and at the Cook and the Carpenter Bake Shop in Highland Park. I am so grateful for my customers who just love my jams and keep encouraging me to make more Jams. I use some of the recipes that my mother and grandmother used and I have some of my own creative jam recipes. The key motivation for me is that I get to do something that I love to do. I love making Jams.

Q: What is the best advice you have been given? What advice would you give to a woman looking to start her own business?

A: Find something that you love to do and make that your passion. Also, network with other women business owners, I belong to the Central Jersey Chapter of NAWBO, the National Association of Women Business Owners. My NAWBO sisters always have my back and they encourage me consistently.

Jams by Kim

601 Route 206, Suite 26-472

Hillsborough, NJ 08844

(908) 672-5418

Website

Facebook

Get to know Lauren Warmke, Owner of Simply Sweets by Lauren.

Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business and why did you choose Hillsborough?

A: I opened in my current location in July 2019, I am a lifelong Hillsborough resident and couldn't think of a better place to open my shop.

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved…what motivates you every day?

A: The one thing that motivates me every day is knowing I can make people happy. I love seeing my customers' smiles on Saturdays.

Q: What is the best advice you have been given? What advice would you give to a woman looking to start her own business?

A: Build your business around your life, not the other way around. I created my business so that I can spend as much time as possible with my family. That's always been number one for me.

Simply Sweets by Lauren

284 Route 206 Bldg E Suite 11

Hillsborough, NJ 08844

908-295-0435

Website

Facebook

Get to know Lydia Imhauser, Owner of Industrial Tube Corporation.

Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business and why did you choose Hillsborough?

A: We are a 4th Generation Family owned business. Generations 1 and 2 operated a manufacturing facility in Germany. Generation 3 and 4 operated a manufacturing facility in Hillsborough. We opened in Hillsborough in 1973, my father chose Hillsborough because of its location.

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved…what motivates you every day?

A: 1. I am employing and supporting 50 families. 2. I am my own boss - Flexibility - yes, I have to work hard and long, but I am in control of what I do and when I do it. If I need to take an hour to take my children somewhere - I do not have to ask for permission. 3. Helping my customers, solving problems and finding solutions for things that others have given up on. 4. Being able to say that we are one of the only companies doing what we are doing in the United States and we are doing it successfully.

Q: What is the best advice you have been given? What advice would you give to a woman looking to start her own business?

A: Surround yourself with positive people. If you have a dream, let nothing stop you! Set your goals and never give up! In most cases the word can't means won't. Be able to speak to the numbers and listen to your gut. Do not be afraid of making decisions and/or mistakes.

Industrial Tube Corporation

297 Valley Rd

Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844

(908) 369-3737

Website

Get to know Marisa Narula, Owner of Code Ninjas.

Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business and why did you choose Hillsborough?

A: June 2019, we opened in Hillsborough because being a local resident, we know how important it is to help build your community. Code Ninjas provides girls and boys of our area an opportunity to learn coding, STEM, and robotics. It is especially important, now more than ever, to have this skill set as every industry will be technology driven. Coding is the new literacy and will provide our children with the skills they need for the jobs of tomorrow. As with any language, the earlier they start, the easier it will be for them to learn and become fluent. We have a special interest in getting more girls involved in STEM, to encourage and empower them, and help increase gender equality in the tech industry.

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved…what motivates you every day?

A: Seeing my students and employees succeed is what motivates me every day. To watch their progress, see them win awards, and create their own apps, websites, and games is truly fulfilling. I also love having a platform that allows me to support local charities, robotics teams, schools, and participate in local events.

Q: What is the best advice you have been given? What advice would you give to a woman looking to start her own business?

A: The best advice I have ever been given is probably the Scout Motto of “Do your best”. In every area of our lives- whether it is personal or business - doing your best means that you put forth effort, time, planning, and your heart into everything you do. Being a Scout volunteer for over a decade prepared me to work with children, run a business, be a parent, and a good citizen. If you are a woman looking to start your own business, you should follow your dreams, make sure to have balance, and do your best every single day. With hard work and perseverance, your efforts will pay off.

Code Ninjas

649 US-206 Suite 1C

Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844

(908) 533-1525

Website

Facebook

Get to know Peg Bright, Owner of Brightfuture.

Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business and why did you choose Hillsborough?

A: I started my health and wellness business about 8 years ago. I have lived in Hillsborough for 25 years, raised my children here and love this town.

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved…what motivates you every day?

A: I am motivated by helping people. I love to hear my clients success stories and the joy they experience in life.

Q: What is the best advice you have been given? What advice would you give to a woman looking to start her own business?

A: Believe in yourself and don’t let the negative people in your life steal your joy!! I was given that Advice and I live by that. I pass that on to everyone I meet.

Brightfuture

Pegbright@gmail.com

Website

Get to know Robin Blair, Owner of Dog Days Daycare Center.

Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business and why did you choose Hillsborough?

A: Dog Days Daycare Center opened in July 2005 as a loving and controlled environment where companion dogs can socialize with other dogs and our staff, play together, and enjoy both mental and physical stimulation, much like child daycare. Hillsborough is the perfect location for my business. Not only do I live here, but I know many Hillsborough families and individuals who may only have limited time to fully exercise and interact with their dog due to long work hours, family obligations, packed schedules, etc. Dog Days is able to fill that gap. Just as importantly, for people who need to board their dogs overnight for a single night or extended period, there have been few options to traditional kennels with individual runs, or family members/friends who agree to care for the dog during the owners' absence. At Dog Days we provide a home-like environment where the dogs are free to roam both inside and outside. They are permitted to sleep wherever they are most comfortable whether it's on the couch in the playroom, on one of many cots and beds, or even next to the overnight attendant. The dogs are never left alone and enjoy the company of both staff and other dogs.

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved…what motivates you every day?

A: After 20 years in the corporate world, nothing gives me more joy and satisfaction than seeing the happy faces and wagging tails of pups pulling to get inside the facility to start their adventure. We have fantastic customers who become part of the Dog Days family. Sharing their pups and entrusting us with their care is the ultimate compliment!

Q: What is the best advice you have been given? What advice would you give to a woman looking to start her own business?

A: A woman looking to start her own business will face the same challenges as a man, plus more. Ginger Rogers once said that she performed all the same dance steps as Fred Astaire, but she did it backwards and in high heels. Women know this from life in general and simply must persevere in business as well. If you can't get it done one way, find another. Just plan on being successful!

Dog Days Daycare Center

281 Roycefield Rd

Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844

(908) 431-0100

Website

Facebook

Get to know Unnati Amin, Owner of TRU Periodontics & Dental Implants.

Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business and why did you choose Hillsborough?

A: We opened in the summer of 2020. We have opened a periodontal dental practice (specializing in gum and bone surgery). We chose this area as Hillsborough is a growing community and there are many major highways closeby.

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved…what motivates you every day?

A: To continue in my efforts to build a practice I am proud of.

Q: What is the best advice you have been given? What advice would you give to a woman looking to start her own business?

A: To keep setting goals for yourself and your practice. Advice to another would include remembering that there will be ups and downs and keep things in perspective.

TRU Periodontics & Dental Implants

912 Courtyard Dr.

Hillsborough, NJ 08844

908-304-9601

Website

Spotlight

Hillarie Scannelli - IMPACT Training

Debbie Norz of Norz Hill Farm & Market

Tina Rear of Scrap U & Artistry Too

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