Monday - Friday
8:00 - 4:30

908.369.4313

379 South Branch Road
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
908.369.4313

379 South Branch Road
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
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October is National Women's Small Business Month! This month was created to celebrate the growth and accomplishments of female entrepreneurs and recognize the vital role they play in our economy. The Hillsborough Business Association is taking the opportunity to recognize women business owners in Hillsborough. The HBA has invited all Hillsborough women business owners to share a few details of their business by completing a questionnaire. We encourage all women business owners to fill out the form here to discuss and celebrate their successes and stories.

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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: Since 2016 we’ve worked with over 20,000 children in all capacities from early childhood development to preschool enrichment to gymnastics. Hillsborough has many families with young children and its industrious and entrepreneurial environment attracted us to this region.

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved... what motivates you every day?
A: Do what you love and put 100% into it. Be grateful for the people and opportunities that come your way.

Q: What is the best advice you have been given?
A: Know yourself — both weakness and strength— and follow your heart.

The Little Gym
133 Stryker Lane
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
(908) 420-9440
Website
Facebook


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Get to know Alicia Arango of La Costeñita, one of our 2020 spotlights

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

A: La Costeñita focuses on providing homemade food cooked entirely on our site, using natural and fresh ingredients. We also offer a variety of Mexican products, which can be used for your daily diet, or to venture to recreate some Mexican recipes.


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

A: None. Before La Costeñita, I was a normal person and worked a normal job. I had experience in direct sales and customer service as a beauty consultant.


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

A: My ego. I believed in my children’s words: “Mami, your food is so delicious; why don’t you open a restaurant?” Of course, they didn’t know any better. Also, I have a cousin living in Hillsborough who complained about not having anywhere to get tortillas or chiles. I promised him to open a store, so he wouldn’t have to worry anymore. La Costeñita has been in business for almost 12 years. We opened on October 8th, 2008. Why Hillsborough? Because I wanted my cousin not to miss the smells, the flavors, the food with which we grew up with in Mexico.


Q: What has your experience been from owning this business in Hillsborough, and has it been what you expected?

A: I didn’t know what to expect, as everything was new for me. When I started having problems opening La Costeñita, I thought it was normal. This has been a path full of learning, having the opportunity to meet very interesting people throughout this journey.


Q: What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of owning your business?

A: Contrary to what people may think, “She has all the time in the world,” “she’s the boss,” “she hardly ever works,” time is one of the biggest challengers. Being a small business, your limitations are big. You don’t have the same resources as a large company. If an employee leaves, you, the boss, are the replacement. If someone gets sick, you are also the replacement. Consequently, you miss some family celebrations.


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

A: My children. I want to be an example of perseverance, dedication, and hard work. I know they will have their own challenges, but I hope that through me, they will learn that they can achieve their goals as I have. Especially the barriers I have overcome as a woman, a Latina, an immigrant, and with English as my second language.


Q: As a woman business owner, what are you most proud of?

A: To think that, against all odds and setbacks, La Costeñita has been open for almost 12 years. That is something that I am very 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: I have received a lot of advice, all very important. One of the best: “fake it until you make it.” My advice for any woman would be to follow your instincts, believe it, and do it with all your passion.


Q: What do you envision for your Hillsborough business going forward?

A: I would like to see La Costeñita being able to offer good customer service while providing quality cuisine to everyone in this town and its surroundings (without me).


Q: Any final comments or thoughts you would like to share?

A: When Charles Ruggieri, EBDC Chairman, spoke to me about this topic, I thought, why do they want to recognize me? I have not done anything important, but, it is platforms like this one will help women of any background to have hope that, with effort and dedication, they can achieve their goals. What only remains to say is thank you, thank you so much for letting me part of this project.


La Costeñita

450 Amwell Rd, #2

Hillsborough, NJ 08844

(908) 874-0091

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Get to know Amy Denholtz Lewandowski, owner of Jazzercise Hillsborough

 

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

A: I became the new owner of Jazzercise Hillsborough in March 2023, but Jazzercise has been creating friendships through dance fitness in Hillsborough since the 1980s. I was previously an instructor at Jazzercise Hillsborough and love the community of inspiring and strong women.

 

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

A: I love being a Jazzercise instructor and the greatest gift is seeing how much our Jazzercise Hillsborough community supports one another - cheering each other on and lending a shoulder or hand during any challenge. As a business owner, I'm so proud to set an example for my daughter - she sees the hard work I put in, the joy I have sharing the Jazzercise dance fitness program, and the importance of women of all ages and stages staying active for their physical and mental health.

 

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've received and shared lots of advice, but the most meaningful support I've received, and tried to reciprocate, is connecting with and learning from other small business owners, especially women business owners. We can all help each other thrive.

 

Jazzercise Hillsborough

381 Triangle Rd., Bldg. F, Unit 2

Hillsborough, NJ 08844

(732) 328-8618

Website

Facebook


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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 to 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

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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: I started my business in 2016, but first opened in March of 2017. For many years I had my own business as a physical therapist, but had learned about a boxing fitness program for people living with Parkinson's and saw how I could help even more people with this unique approach called Rock Steady Boxing. I have lived in and around Hillsborough since 1982, so I knew it was a good location for this program, since the population and area has grown so much, which meant I could really help the people in this and nearby communities to have access to these specialized classes.

 

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

A: The people with Parkinson's who come in to our classes and fight every day to slow the progression of their symptoms and the disease are my motivation. My team of volunteers and coaches are inspiring as well, as we all work together to support each other in the victories and the hard times too.

 

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 a few pieces of advice. First, listen to your heart. Second, ask for help and get out there and talk to as many people as you can about your dream and mission. And lastly, surround yourself with supportive, like-minded people.

 

All About Balance LLC

126 Stryker Lane

Hillsborough NJ 08844

(908) 369-4949

Website

Facebook

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

 

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

A: Our business was started in October 1965 by my dad, David Byerley, once he graduated from Franklin High School in Somerset. My grandfather, Richard 'Slim' Byerley, had also owned and operated a trash collection business named Slim's Somerset Disposal Service, Inc. which he started in approximately 1945 when he returned from military service. I literally inherited my father's business in August 2013 along with my mother and sister after he passed away unexpectedly. I took a leave of absence from my corporate job expecting this to be a short term venture but has now turned into 8 years and worked out well for my personal flexibility as well.

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

A: I have always been a motivated person having chosen to complete both my bachelors and master’s degrees part-time over the course of 14 years while moving up the corporate ladder in a full-time career. At this point, I think I continue to be motivated by the interest of helping others whether it be ensuring my employees have jobs or that customers receive the proper level of service at a reasonable cost. I am also motivated in setting an example for my son in that you have to earn what you have, and it is not simply handed to you.

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: Given several life changes over the years, my best advice is 'you can't take it with you.' So work hard but play hard enjoying what is earned versus all work which can increase health issues and lead to unhappiness. For a woman starting a business, I would advise you can do anything you set your mind to. I am running a business that is truly in a man's world. Thankfully, I have the personality to deal with some of the 'backbone' needed to resolve day-to-day challenges. Women should think carefully about the business they are getting into and understand they need a firm stance to push through gender stereotypes as many thought a bunch of women inheriting a trash collection business weren't going to make it too far but have been proven VERY wrong.
Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business, and why did you choose Hillsborough?

A: Ascend Hot Fitness open in November 2019. After years of participating in and teaching regular fitness classes, I decided to open a hot studio in Hillsborough. After taking my first Hot Pilates, I fell in love with the health benefits of the infrared heat and exercise. I chose Hillsborough because I worked as a teacher in the school district and love the supportive, down-to-earth community vibe. In the near future, I plan to bring more mental wellness (meditation, sound healing) and aerial fitness to balance out the studio's offerings.

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

A: I am motivated every day by the participants and community that enter the studio doors. They work hard to achieve their goals, and over time, it is amazing to see their results. I am grateful to have some part in their fitness and wellness journeys.

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: My best advice for woman looking to start her own business is to search out services within the community. Community connection is important to keeping a business thriving, even through a pandemic or difficult times.
Get to know Jayne Mochnacz of Super Sundaes, one of our 2020 Spotlights

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

A: To provide Ice Cream treats and cakes. We wanted it to be a place for families to come and celebrate life!

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

A: My first jobs were in the restaurant industry. I received a BSBA from Northeastern University.

Following graduation, I worked in the training department in a contract food service company,

where I met my husband, Steve. When we started our family, I jumped out of that industry and into family childcare. Running my own accredited family childcare business was so rewarding!

So, with all these experiences, I knew that in my next job, I wanted to continue to be my own boss.


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

A: 22 plus years!!!! We are residents of this town! We surveyed the town looking for what was needed and what was different. Using our business model, our shop was needed! As far as Ice

Cream/dessert shops, we have been around the longest! Our plan was to be the owner/operator of a business, so we needed to agree. We both had a strong food service background. I started my Ice Cream “career” at 16 at a Friendly ice cream shop. When the opportunity to take a leap of faith and open a family business, what better way of bringing families together than with ice cream!


Q: What has your experience been from owning this business in Hillsborough, and has it been what you expected?

A: OMG it is so much more! It is empowering to know we have such great customers! But without the customers, we would not succeed. Just as they give to our business, we needed to give back too. We realized that our business can be an avenue to help our community thrive.

Through the years, we have supported many Hillsborough based non-profits, schools, scouts,

churches and sports groups. It has been so rewarding and fulfilling.


Q: What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of owning your business?

A: Issues related to perfectionism, procrastination and time management are intertwined daily.


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

A: That is a difficult question to answer without writing a novel. Knowing what I wanted in a job, I have been able to create a livelihood that maximizes the best in me. I guess the saying, "Hard work puts you where good luck can find you" is my motivation.





Q: As a woman business owner, what are you most proud of?

A: I am amazed at how long Super Sundaes has been in business. I could not have done it alone, I am fortunate that I have a strong family, great employees, and wonderful customers.

Being my own boss has brought out the best in me.


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: "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent" and "Hard work puts you where good luck can find you." Although you could own/run a business alone, remember you can't be successful without customers and the community.


Q: What do you envision for your Hillsborough business going forward?

A: To continue on! Finally, we have a Walk-Up Window! May maneuvering through this time be nothing more than a speed bump. We can’t wait to get back on the Highway!


Q: Any final comments or thoughts you would like to share?

A: Live life as an exclamation point and not a question mark!


Super Sundaes

435 Amwell Rd

Hillsborough, NJ 08844

(908) 904-4811

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Get to know Jessica Rogers, owner of Peaceful Home Organizing, LLC

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

A: I launched Peaceful Home Organizing, LLC in April 2023, after becoming a Certified Organizational Specialist in 2022. I had been on an organizing journey in my own home for several years, and I realized that the training and know-how I had gained to get control over my own home could help other women and their families. I began volunteering at my church, then helping friends and family, and trained under a well-known HGTV organizer. I chose this area to work in because we've lived in Hillsborough for years- even before we had kids- and raised our children here now for 10 years and counting. I love this community and the surrounding areas.

 

Q: What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of owning your business?

A: Issues related to perfectionism, procrastination and time management are intertwined daily.

 

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

A: I know the immense feeling of relief and happiness that is waiting for my clients at the end of our sessions, and that is really what motivates me. For women and families who are feeling overwhelmed or burdened or just stressed by a trouble spot in their homes, decluttering and organizing even just one space can be so cathartic and literally life-changing. As one client said at the end of our session together, "I feel a thousand pounds lighter!" Being able to be part of that process is so life-giving.


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 business advice I have been given is not to be afraid to take action, even if everything is not as perfect as you would want it to be, and to know your season and what your priorities are going to be during that season. Whenever we take something on, we have to know what we are going to release in order to make time for our new venture or project. And if we wait until everything is perfect, we may never launch our business. Bring as much value as you can every day, love and serve your customers, and trust that your love and your heart will shine through in what you do.

 

Peaceful Home Organizing, LLC

908-892-7148

Website

peaceful home and jessica

Get to know Hope Valenti, owner of Amwell Pet Supply

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

A: 2012. I wanted to help animals. Nice community.

Q: Given the challenges of owning your own business, and the hard work involved, what motivates you every day?

A: Saving animals and getting them new homes.

 

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

A: Try and surround yourself with good people and be ready to work hard.

 

Amwell Pet Supply

434 Route 206

Hillsborough, NJ 08844

(908) 359-5117

Website


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Get to know Lauren Warmke, Owner of Simply Sweets

Q: When did your current business open, what led you to open this particular business, and why did you choose Hillsborough?
A: Simply Sweets went legit in 2015, yep that long ago, when I outgrew being a home-baker. I jumped around a bit, was tempted to quit, made mistakes, learned many lessons which all led to opening where I currently am today. The Cake Studio opened at Triangle Center in 2019 and has been steadily growing ever since. Hillsborough was the ONLY choice, it's my hometown, a town that desperately needed some sweetness!

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved, what motivates you every day?
A: Saturday is the single day that motivates me each week. It's it so fulfilling to see & meet each customer. These customers give me life, they make waking up at 3 AM on Saturdays a piece of cake! So corny I know, I love hearing the stories, seeing the smiles, they are all becoming a huge part of my life. I'm very thankful for the community I have been able to bring together in four short hours each week.

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:  It's the same advice I would give to anyone looking to start a business. If you're scared, do it anyway. That fear never goes away, you just get braver!

Simply Sweets
284 Route 206, Building E, Suite 11
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Website
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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 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

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Get to know Mrinalini Ayachit, Owner of Vibrnz, 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 was created in May, 2018. With my passion for creativity, corporate experience, and educational background, I wanted to build something new and innovative that could make a difference for the community. Having organized multiple events in the past and worked with small businesses and non-profits, I realized there was a need for an integrated platform like Vibrnz. After developing the software for a couple of years, we launched our first event in January 2020. We are residents of Hillsborough, and we love being here. We started Vibrnz here and we would like to see it grow as it brings in multiple benefits to the local community with its success and innovation.

Q: Given the challenges of owning a small business, and the hard work involved, what motivates you every day?
A: My passion and my dream of making a difference with my own creation motivates me every single day. I have multiple years of work experience and a good educational background, and I can get a well-paying job anytime. But the fact that Vibrnz has helped entrepreneurs and small businesses and the thought that it can make an impact on millions across the globe inspires me every single 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: It is never easy to follow your dreams. And not everyone has the luxury to follow their passion and do what they really want to do. But unless we try, we wouldn’t know. What is important is your confidence and the persistence to make things work. My only advice would be to have the grit and confidence to keep going. Many of us, specially women lack the confidence and look for validation from others. We are defensive while selling our product and always feel we could do better. If we are true to ourselves and we believe in our product, and business, nothing should stop us! I would say if you have a financial safety net, go for your dreams. Nothing compares to experiencing the success and wellbeing of your own baby!

Vibrnz, LLC
25 Murphy Drive
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Website


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 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

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Get to know Sundeep Kaur, Owner of Advanced Eyecare of Hillsborough  

 

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

A: The office has been serving Hillsborough patients since 1992. I only recently became the owner in 2019 and since then have expanded the services available. Our focus on myopia control has helped us make a difference in pediatric patients and their struggles with nearsightedness.

 

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

A: My motivation is my patients. My passion for providing comprehensive exams with all the newest technology keeps my patients in safe hands. It is rewardinf to provide treatment options for certain diseases that may not simply get treated with eyeglasses.

 

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 been given is to never be afraid to try. The initial step in opening your own business can seem very daunting but the feeling you get when your business grows and comes to life is immeasurable. It is important to have a team (accountant, lawyer, marketing advisor etc.) in place that will help guide you in your decisions.

 

 

Advanced Eyecare of Hillsborough

305 Omni Drive

Hillsborough, NJ 08844

908-281-0800

Website

Get to know Tammie Starnes, owner of Abundant Healing

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

A: May 2022. Hillsborough needed a wellness center to help recover from Shutdown damage. I live in Hillsborough and have been part of the community for 33 years

 

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

A: Our clients feedback. The letters, emails, texts, and conversations are so amazing!

 

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: Keep the faith. It's all going to work out. Stay true to your dream. Make sure to protect your business with great employees and partners.

 

Abundant Healing

311 Amwell Road, Suite 6

Hillsborough, NJ 08844

908-777-1363

Website


abundant healing and tammie

Get to know Tina Rear of Scrap U & Artistry Too, one of our 2020 spotlights

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

A: Scrap U opened in 2015 and I started teaching from my home. Hillsborough was a natural choice for our studio because it's been my home for almost 25 years.

 

Q: What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of owning your business?

A: I think one of the most challenging aspects of my business is keeping a consistent customer base. I think finding "regulars" that are interested in art that want to keep coming back is difficult. Most make those commitments to gyms, dance, sports, but not art. The other challenge is time. It is difficult to be open all the time, like a storefront, without consistent customers. This business is run so differently than a store and people often comment that they stop by, and we are closed, assuming that we are open all the time, which I would love to be, if I had the client base to warrant it.

 

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

A: I love to see the creativity that comes alive in our students. When families come in together, create art together and when parents see the amazing work their children are capable of, that is the most inspiring part of my job. Knowing that these families are part of our Scrap U Family means the world to me.

 

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 think we are always evolving and learning something new but the one thing I can share is how important social media and referrals are for a small business. I am always looking to partner with other local businesses, so I would say to anyone looking to start a business, create partnerships where ever you can!

 

Scrap U & Artistry Too

856 Route 206, Bldg. B, Suite 8

Hillsborough, NJ 08844

732-239-5003

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scrap u and staff

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

October 25, 2022
Women business owners of Hillsborough were invited to the October 25th Township Committee meeting, where they received a group proclamation in honor of National Women's Small Business Month, presented by Mayor Shawn Lipani and the Hillsborough Township Committee.


Pictured below L to R: Insta Crystal owner Arva Surva, Mayor Shawn Lipani, ScrapU Artistry Too owner Tina Rear, Code Ninjas of Hillsborough owner Marisa Narula, Little Gym of Hillsborough owner Ada Young, Right at Home owner Janet Kuebler, Rock Steady Boxing owner Barbara Kelly, Economic & Business Development Director Zuzana Karas, Economic & Business Development Commission member Abed Medawar

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October 26, 2021
All featured businesswomen from 2020's National Women's Small Business Month were invited to the October 26th Township Committee meeting, where they received a group proclamation celebrating their success in Hillsborough, presented by Mayor Shawn Lipani and the Hillsborough Township Committee.


Pictured below L to R: Business Advocate David Kois, Committeewoman Janine Erickson, Mayor Shawn Lipani, Marisa Narula of Code Ninjas, Jayne Mochnacz of Super Sundaes, and Lydia Imhauser of Industrial Tube Corporation.

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