women in business / 21 René Clawson Clawson Architects 511 Valley Street, Maplewood 973.313.2724 clawsonarchitects.com clawsoncabinets.com Tara Connell CKO Maplewood 1933 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood 973-996-8779 ckomaplewood.com Why I do what I do I believe that everyday life can be enriched through extraordinary design. As a residential architect and designer, I design smart solutions to ease my clients' everyday lives. My work is informed by my real-life experiences: juggling a business; parental responsibilities; entertaining; and volunteering. Favorite part of working locally The people. Our residents cherish creativity, authenticity and individuality. This allows our firm to be creative as we develop solutions that address our clients’ needs and celebrate who they are, making each project unique. My motto “Have fun, too!” My younger self used to think, “When I get through this, then…” Over time, I learned it’s the journey. So, whatever I am doing I remember to build in the fun along the way. 1747 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood 973-378-3877 lovedanceandmusic.com LaShonda Chaney LaChaney's Dance & Music Academy Why I started my business After my first child, I felt overweight, out of shape, and unhappy with my body. Thankfully, a friend introduced me to CKO in Brooklyn and I was hooked. Five years and two more kids later, my husband and I decided to move to the burbs and bring CKO Kickboxing to Maplewood and its surrounding areas. I knew there were plenty of people just like me who thought that feeling sluggish with a muffin top was 'The New Black', and I knew that CKO could make them feel better, just like it did for me. My favorite moments in my business Seeing people come in for their trial class looking meek and lacking confidence and, within weeks of coming to class regularly, they are glowing and looking like a million bucks! My motto Work hard and feel great! Why I started my business I taught in the Orange and Maplewood/South Orange school districts for 10 years and loved connecting with kids. Fifteen years ago, I decided to step out on faith and open the school, teaching our students to focus on the future and dream big, eliminating the word “can’t” from their vocabulary. Once they set their minds to something, there are no limits. My motto "To whom much is given, much is required.” Our goal is to instill discipline and the love of dance and music in all students while also teaching skills that enable our students to be successful in life. Why I do what I do For the love of the arts and family. It’s more than just a dance and music school but, ultimately, a vehicle to impact lives in a positive direction. We believe our success comes as a result of providing solid training and quality service, along with an underlying belief in the strength of our organization.