26 / matters magazine / fall 2017 Ann Laskowski Keller Williams Midtown Direct Realty 181 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood 917-586-3018 facebook.com/welcomehomeNJ Why I do what I do People are fascinating to me and I love getting to know so many people in my business, from clients to fellow agents, inspectors, attorneys, contractors, and appraisers. It's the clients that are at the forefront, though, because my relationship with them becomes very familiar and they become friends I enjoy seeing in town or staying in touch with if they have relocated. My favorite moments in my business I love when I get to make a call congratulating a buyer because their offer has been received or congratulating a seller because they've received a great offer. Coming to terms after a tricky negotiation is also a moment of satisfaction that I thrive on! My tools of the trade Relationships, relationships, relationships are my tools of the trade. 187 Millburn Ave, Suite #101 Millburn 917-210-1063 sevenpointwellness.com Cristina R. de La Mar Seven Point Wellness My tools of the trade What brings to life acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition, lifestyle consultation, and bodywork therapies are the ability to listen well, care deeply, and to approach each patient with both genuine curiosity and compassion. My goal is to translate the tools of my trade into comprehensive treatment strategies tailored to the unique needs of each person. Most valuable lesson learned Never underestimate how much you will learn from those who come to you for support. Those we “help” are powerful teachers. My favorite moments in my business All of my favorite moments center around bearing witness to people along their journey to wellness – not just in their bodies, but in their emotional and, sometimes, spiritual health, as well. Jamie Meier Live Love Lens Photography facebook.com/livelovelensphotography instagram: @livelovelens @livelovemaplewood livelovelens.com Why I started my business Photography is my second career after having been in social work for a number of years. I started my business in 2011 after my daughter was born when I was on the hunt for an intellectual and creative outlet. Positive feedback from friends and family and a request for a photo shoot led me to take photography classes. Soon after, Live Love Lens Photography was born! Most valuable lesson learned I feel strongly about going the extra mile in regards to customer service. Sending another thank you note, correcting every mistake and then making up for it, all to make my clients happy. They remember that and come back. Favorite part of working locally I feel ingrained in the SOMA community and truly enjoy seeing my clients all over town. It's a special connection and I'm very fortunate to have such kind and down-to-earth clients. Photo by Lee Seidenberg