During hard times, I realized just how many wonderful people I have in my life that will be there for me through anything. Every challenge and setback has led to new and exciting opportunities. I have learned to embrace change and be open to the unknown.

It was one of the hardest choices I ever had to make. The economy was facing a downturn, and my restaurant was suffering. Companies were laying off employees, and my lunch business had decreased by nearly half overnight. Families in the area no longer had the discretionary funds to eat out. In October 2002, I had to close my restaurant. I was devastated to lose such an important part of my life.

My restaurant was a staple in the community. I met so many wonderful people and enjoyed learning about their lives. As a single mother, I raised my daughter Olivia in the restaurant. She loved playing with other kids in the dedicated kid’s playroom on the family dining side, and I felt a sense of pride seeing children grow up in my restaurant. The choice to close the restaurant was an impossible one to make. I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit. The restaurant was the product of years of hard work, but just like that, it was gone.

The final night before I closed my restaurant doors forever, I invited everyone out to celebrate the good memories they had in my restaurant. We ate and drank while people took photos off the walls and reminisced about all the good times there. By the end of it, I was a mess, crying and wishing this day had never come. At that moment, I couldn’t picture what was next for me.

Many of my customers at the restaurant were Builders and Real Estate Developers. I had a dear friend that had implored me several times to become a REALTOR®. It was the perfect time to try something new. In December 2002, I became a licensed REALTOR®. It was scary at first going into a commission-based industry, but I knew I had the right work ethic and skills to be successful. Many of my customers from the restaurant already knew my character and trusted me to guide them through the real estate processes.

As I grew my business, I realized what I loved most about my restaurant had translated into my real estate business. No matter what I go through, I can trust that those who care for me will be there. I met my husband, Eric, early on in my career. He has been an incredible source of support and encouragement throughout my life. Together, we have created a great life for our daughters, Olivia and Lily.

My real estate career had quickly grown into something I had never imagined. Things were going so well, but suddenly the market shifted in 2008. Our family faced a difficult time, but together we got through it. There were humbling moments as we sought to save money and make ends meet. Over several years, I treated those difficult times as opportunities to reflect and improve myself. I had a few real estate friends going through a similarly hard time, but we encouraged one another and remained positive. This period taught me many things, and by the end of it, I feel I truly became a grounded, better version of myself.

For every door that closed, another one was always waiting to be opened. Every setback ultimately led me to where I am today. In 2016, my husband and I purchased my parents’ 60-acre farm in the country. The land we live on is incredible and feels untouched by the world. It has become such a welcomed retreat for my family and our friends. I deeply value the relationships I have made through my journey and love getting to invite everyone over for our annual Farm Party. I love watching old friends, clients and family come together and enjoy the solace of the country and each other’s company. Sharing my home is one of my greatest pleasures.

Real estate has been a great way for me to play an important role in my community. I love providing people with information that changes their perspective on real estate and what they thought was possible for their specific situation. It’s exciting showing someone how they can optimize their real estate investments, allowing them to make the best financial decisions and in a way they may not have previously considered.

No matter what I am doing in life, service to others will always be my passion. My goal through every experience is to educate, make people happy and meet all their needs. I aim to stay ahead of the curve every step of the way to get results. I coordinate every element of listing or buying preparations, taking the pressure off of you. Real estate doesn’t have to be stressful if you have the right REALTOR® on your side. Once our file together has closed, I am committed to supporting you as your REALTOR® for life.