Every small business has a story. From the conception of an idea, to the struggle to find lending, to the joy of a first sale, the path for small business owners is rarely smooth. That’s why, to celebrate Small Business Saturday, we’re highlighting several of the thousands of small business owners in our communities who
Hermila Solano was ready to take the next step in her cosmetology career. After getting her cosmetology license and working for others, Solano decided to branch out and open her own cosmetology academy. She knew it wouldn’t be easy, but Solano couldn’t have anticipated just how difficult it would be Solano struggled with financing and
Verlissa Schrepfer has long been a part of the Wheaton community. Her association with Wheaton began nearly 15 years ago when, after working in retail for more than three decades, she switched careers and was about to earn a bachelor’s degree in interior design from Chicago’s Harrington College of Design. Needing on-the-job training to finish
Growing up, Sophie Evanoff’s love of pastries was about more than a simple sweet tooth. It was about spending time in the kitchen with her mother and grandmothers baking for family gatherings and church events. Those hours Evanoff spent in the kitchen created more than lifelong memories. They also represented the beginning of a successful
As the holidays approach, busy season is on the horizon for many nonprofits. Planning for end of year, looking ahead to the next, and preparing for the influx of fundraisers and events can keep a staff busy. To free up your employees, enlisting volunteers can be a great option. Plus, during the holidays, many people
Growing up in Argentina, Maria Soledad Zitzewitz remembers good banks having a strong presence in their communities. It was that type of commitment and service Soledad was looking for in a bank when she started Soledad Zitzwitz Interiors, Inc. in 2006. And it’s why, today, she continues to bank with Lake Forest Bank & Trust,