Michelle Albrizio Conquers the Commerce and Leads at Atlantic Environmental

Introducing one of the most talented young ladies of the Women in Business Council and quite honestly, one of the nicest women you'll ever meet. Hear her stories of success, goals for accomplishments and her admiration for Hoboken in today's featured interview.

Meet: Michelle Albrizio
Director of Communications @ Atlantic Environmental Solutions, Inc.
www.solutionsenvironmental.com
malbrizio@solutionsenvironmental.com

Michelle, What inspires you?

After working in Manhattan, coming to Hoboken was a welcome change from the chaos of the city. Hoboken is the ultimate happy-medium of having the city life and the low-key suburban feel. With restaurants, bars and parks everywhere you look, there’s always somewhere to go and something to do, which makes every day a new adventure!

True to that. So tell us about your strengths in business? What are your core qualities?

I have the "get it done, and get it done right" attitude, which has allowed me to accomplish many great things not only for Atlantic Environmental, but for the Chamber of Commerce, which I assist in the running of on a weekly basis. I have been able to organize and execute many great events for both organizations and I find that my determined attitude to make sure that I have done my best to make things as perfect as they can be has made me successful at what I do.

We agree. Thanks for all your help. You've done so much. But do tell.. what is the latest business obstacle you’ve overcome and how did you accomplish it?

About 8 months ago, I made the transition from a behind the scenes employee to a more "visual" one, organizing and attending events and social networking with people from all over the community. It was a welcome change, because I have been lucky to have made relationships both personally and professionally with many wonderful people who have helped not only to promote current business but to collaborate on future events with! Also balancing ALL of the things that I do on a daily basis, getting them done, done right and on-time can be challenging, but its one that I'm always up for!

What’s different about your biz niche that makes you get up and go to work everyday and be your best?

Being surrounded by an amazing group of co-workers and colleagues from the community drive me to do what I do! I have a strong group working with me and behind me, and knowing that their support is there is enough to get me here everyday, because I wouldn't want to let them down!

What’s your favorite part of your job?

I love being able to meet new and different people all the time and hear their stories of how they became what they are today and how they got there. I also love planning different events and being apart of them from start to finish. Its extremely rewarding to see something that started as just an idea on a piece of paper, become an event that people appreciate and enjoy attending!

Now, let's have some Hoboken fun... 

Your favorite restaurant in Hoboken is...
Amanda’s Restaurant. Not only is the atmosphere cozy and inviting, but Eugene and Joyce Flinn, the owners of Amanda’s, always go above and beyond to make you feel welcome and comfortable. The food is AMAZING and is an overall great experience!

Your fave Hoboken hang out is...
For a fun night out with friends, Texas Arizona.

Your fave Frank Sinatra song?
"New York, New York" and "Summer Wind"... its way too hard to pick just one!

Are you a baseball fan? It was invented here in Hoboken. Do you keep up the spirit?

I grew up in a family where from April-October that was ALL that we watched! Go Yankees!!! Maybe we’ll have better luck next year ; )

If you could give Hoboken a headline as the greatest city in the world, what would it be?
One square mile... one GREAT time!

Many, many great times to be had with YOU, Michelle. Thank you for all you do for the Chamber of Commerce and thank you for being a go-getter within our Council. Cheers to Michelle Albrizio, and when you see her at our next Chamber event, make sure you tell her what a great job she's doing both personally and professionally, thanks to knowing more about her in today's feature.

Norma DeRuggiero is Cool, Calm and One of Hoboken's Brightest Minds in Real Estate

Norma DeRuggerio Impresses Us with Her Personality and Real Estate Savvy

Meet Norma DeRuggerio

Robert DeRuggiero Inc. Realtors

www.deruggiero.com
norma@deruggiero.com

Norma is an active Hoboken in Chamber member and such an inspiring woman in business. Take a moment to get up close and personal with Norma in the interview below as we delve into her business senses to find out what makes her tic.

What inspires you?

Certainly making matches for people so that they have what they want-- in where they live. I have been doing this for over 25 years and it never gets boring, frustrating maybe, but never boring. What truly inspires me is reading the sports page and seeing how we are capable of getting beyond our shortcomings and not only reach but exceed our goals. I am a realtor and I am a jock.
Tennis is my passion. I love to play singles and have the freedom to move around the court.

What strengths do you personally bring to the table when it comes to being an influential woman in business?

I think the older I've gotten, the cooler I've gotten. I know that everything works out one way or another. Sometimes there's a deal, and sometimes there isn't. My strength is remaining calm in the face of adversity and allowing people to see possibility.

What is the latest business obstacle you’ve overcome and how did you do it?

Completing real estate transactions always involve people who want what they want-- when they want it. The trick is to have all parties win. This requires working through the issues so that all parties are whole. Communication and compromise are the key.  

Very true... So, tell us what's different about your business niche that makes you get up and go to work everyday and be your best?

My business is based on referrals. Just about every day I get a call from a past client or someone who knows a past client who suggested they call me. I am disciplined and happy. I look in the mirror each day with a big smile, do my makeup, dress for the day, eat my healthy food and if its my lucky day play tennis or go to the gym. I try to cover all my bases and keep myself fit and healthy. I almost always get on my knees and say a prayer before I leave for the day.

Wow, Norma. You're right on target. Looking great, feeling great and being thankful. Those are incredible business qualities to have and to aspire to have. What's your favorite part about your job?

People! I am so fortunate to deal with some of the most interesting, fascinating, lovely people-- And then, they get to live in Hoboken and it just completes to the incredible community that we have here.

What are some cool new ideas about the business that you’re in that we can help promote to fans who are reading this?

Staging is cool, and then there's virtual staging, even cooler. I have a team of stagers who come in and redo a condo that has tenants and then we take professional pictures. Online buyers are seeing the home at its best. I find that this makes a difference, even though when they walk through its not quite the same. The coolest, and maybe not newest idea is to choose a realtor who has experience and good communication skills. That's very useful.

Nice. Great advice. Well taken. Now, let's have some fun. Tell us a bit about your love for Hoboken.

Your favorite Hoboken restaurant is...

La isla has to be the best and my favorite restaurant in hoboken. You step in and it's like you are in another country, maybe Cuba. The food is loaded with garlic and my favorite is chicken and pork. Sooner or later, you see everyone at the counter of La isla.

Your fave Hoboken hangout is...

I love Pier A. My puppy sees the grass and he takes off from one end to the other. Of course he's not supposed to be on the grass, but he does run fast. It's always a special time when we go down there. I have also had my grandchildren there and the shaded area helps in the summer. The views of course are spectacular.

And your fave Sinatra song?

"Summer Wind" is now playing in my head. There are so many,  this is not a fair question. You should have asked for the top 10!

Hahah! Good call. I'm sure we all have our top 10 songs of Sinatra playing in our heads. Now... to baseball. Do you watch baseball being that it was started here?

Yes, I watch most sports when able. The World Series this year was especially great and worth watching. I love the history of Hoboken and sometimes fantasize about what it was like back when llth street was Elysian Fields. I think it must have been quite beautiful.

If you can give Hoboken a headline as the greatest city in the world, what would it be?
Hip hop hooray for Hoboken on the Hudson!

Great title, Norma. This was an incredible way for our audience to learn more about who you are as a woman in business, as a sincere lady and as a trusted real estate resource within the community. Ladies and gents, when you see Norma in and around town, ask her about her backhand. And of course, send all your peeps her way who need a nice home to nestle into within the mile square town!

Kristin Ehrgott is Hoboken’s Home Matchmaker

Meet Kristin Ehrgott
Luxury Residential Specialist at Prudential Castle Point Realty
203 Washington Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
973.945.0362
www.TheHomeMatchmaker.com
Kris@TheHomeMatchmaker.com

A successful real estate entrepreneur, Kristin Ehrgott specializes in luxury residential, offering personalized relocation services for the ever-demanding lifestyles of corporate executives, celebrities, professional athletes and successful entrepreneurs.

With an ability to listen and understand her clients' needs, Kristin a.k.a The Home Matchmaker has continuously achieved clients' goals and exceeded expectations; leveraging relationships with a network of luxury real estate brokers, property managers, attorneys, lenders, architects and designers, while serving as a single point of contact for clients buying, selling or leasing homes nationwide. Recently, both listing and leasing the highest priced residence in Hoboken, New Jersey history, Kristin demonstrates why her business has grown from referrals and repeat clients alone.

By building alliances with luxury brands and businesses through maintaining a luxe lifestyle blog, BleisureLiving.com, her listings receive additional exposure to a discerning audience, while clients have access to luxury automobile rentals and sales, worldwide villa vacation rentals, private jet transportation, and exclusive events.

We asked Kristin to give us insight into her incredible business strengths in accomplishing so much as a young businesswoman. Take a peek at our one on one interview with this leading lady:

Your personal business strengths are...

Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, my personal drive for success comes natural. And the desire to help people achieve their goals is rewarding. I take pride in my accomplishments because I know the sacrifice and perseverance it takes to continue to develop a successful business.

How did you overcome your latest business obstacle? Inspire us.

Let’s face it. In today’s real estate market, business isn’t going to find you sitting at a desk. You have to get out there and create it. It’s about developing relationships and helping your friends. My latest clients are well known celebrities that I have developed a friendship with over the past couple of years; while out to dinner with Law & Order star Ice-T and his wife, E! reality star, Coco, the couple expressed a need for more space in their current home and the desire to upgrade to something with that “wow” factor, just a few days later I found them their dream home.

What’s different about your business niche that makes you get up and go to work everyday and be your best?

With a specialty in luxury real estate I have the pleasure to experience the most extraordinary homes and meet some very intelligent and interesting people.

Your favorite part about your job is...

I have a personal appreciation for architecture and design and I enjoy helping my clients to buy or sell what’s often one of their most prized possessions, their home.

What are some cool new ideas about the business you're in that will get our fans excited?

I’ve taken a creative approach to the real estate industry. With a background in advertising and marketing, I’ve realized the power of developing a memorable identity and excellent reputation, while utilizing the latest technology available. My personal website is custom designed to integrate the use of not only property searches but also easy to use forms, video, facebook, twitter, articles and a blog to connect with my clients on multiple levels beyond the real estate transaction. Developing creative ideas and unique approaches, while utilizing my contacts; I consider myself the next generation of the real estate agent.

NICE! You certainly are. Now, have some fun with us...

Your favorite restaurant in Hoboken is: Anthony David’s for brunch or an intimate dinner.

I love the quaint European style charm and gourmet menu.

Your favorite hang-out in Hoboken:

The terrace at Chandelier Room. Great place to meet friends for drinks with fantastic skyline views.

Your favorite Frank Sinatra song:

“The way you look tonight” I’m a self-proclaimed hopeless romantic.

Do you watch Baseball being that it was invented here, we wanna know:

I attended my first major league baseball game only a few years ago at the original Yankee Stadium, where I had the unique opportunity to watch from George Steinbrenner’s office. That was incredible.

If you can give Hoboken a headline as the greatest city in the world, what would it be in your eyes:

A small town set in the best location in the world. With access to Manhattan, major airports, beaches and mountains, you can’t ask for anything more.

WOW! And That, friends is The Matchmaker of Real Estate in the very charming town of Hoboken. Need a home? You know who to call to play Matchmaker. Visit Kristin's interactive blog and website and get inspired about luxury real estate. It's nice to have nice things...

Jane Estes is Building an 'Empire Experience' for Those in Search of a Cozy Place to Call Home

We are pleased to announce our new Women in Business Council Feature of the Week: Miss Jane M. Estes from Empire Realty Group LLC
www.empiregroup.com
jestes@empiregroup.com

“I feel that selling real estate in Hoboken and the surrounding areas is a wonderful career to have.  As a Hoboken Realtor, I meet interesting and inspiring people every day. People flock to our area to enjoy the home town atmosphere while enjoying the convenience of New York City- only a path train ride away. We are truly a unique market offering a variety of housing options to our customers.” - Jane Estes

An interesting story to share: Jane recently had the pleasure to meet and work with a family temporarily relocating from Ecuador. They had been staying in a hotel for four months while waiting for their visas to be processed. They decided to enter Jane’s office after enjoying their pizza next door at Grimaldis. Location is everything!

While working with this family, they truly became friends. They had very difficult and specific requirements including furnished month to month luxury rentals. Hoboken and the surrounding area, however, had several alternatives that met their needs. Though they eventually wound up returning to Ecuador, not only did Jane meet a very special family, but she now has an open invitation to visit them. The family truly appreciated the “over and beyond” attitude that Jane showed them. They knew that Jane worked very hard to find them the right living situation that worked within their visa constraints. They also knew that she truly cared for them. She looks forward to their return to this area and the opportunity to sell them their permanent home someday soon. And the same “Empire Experience” will be shared with you too, if you’re interested in a new place to live. Please visit Empire after a slice at Grimaldi’s and ask for Jane.

We asked Jane to tell us what personal strengths she exudes as an influential women in business. Here’s what she had to say:

My background is in the broadcast design industry. Working as a producer demands that you stay organized, on time and on budget. These skills translate into everyday real estate. Producing a real estate transaction is very similar to television production though much more emotional and personal.

Her latest business obstacle was a tough one, but she made it happen. Listen in:

I recently worked with former clients who were looking to upgrade from their one bedroom condo to a larger unit. They grew up in houses and were used to suburban living so they wanted to explore larger homes. After exploring our options in Hoboken, we decided to investigate other areas. Some agents might have had to refer these clients out to an agent in the suburbs. They would then have lost the opportunity and satisfaction in finding them their new home. I felt, however, that I could still fully service my clients. I grew up in Bergen County and feel lucky to be able to continue assisting my clients and friends in other areas as well as in Hoboken. My clients closed on their new home in time for the holidays and are enjoying the space we found in the suburbs.


Why does Jane get up every morning and love her job? Find out below:

It is important to me to be able to go to work and enjoy being at my job. As one of the owners of Empire Realty Group, my duties are varied every day. In addition to servicing my buyers and sellers, I also share the responsibility of running my company. I have the broker responsibilities and work with my agents in navigating their own transactions, their own negotiations and their overall real estate development. Each day is a challenge and a learning experience for me. Each day holds a reward. 

Rewards come in many ways. In addition to the satisfaction that I personally get on a daily basis, as a company we continue to give back to the community. We do this through our Empire Cares program. One of our most rewarding events this year was on Valentine’s Day when we served breakfast to over eighty senior citizens at the Multi Purpose center in Hoboken.  We cooked and served a scrumptious breakfast to a special group of individuals while one of our talented agents entertained the crowd singing Frank Sinatra favorites.

Jane’s favorite part about Real Estate:

My favorite part about my job is being referred by satisfied clients. I love to work with friends and family who have been referred by clients that have been happy with my service. My business is based on referrals and I am never too busy to work with clients of former clients. 

Get in on these incredible new real estate ideas from Jane:

Real Estate is an ever changing business to be in. Home buyers are looking for real estate on the internet and are much more educated than in the past. A realtor needs to be one step ahead of the game in today’s market to be of assistance to home buyers and sellers. I am constantly attending training seminars and keeping up to date on the latest trends. Empire Realty Group is using Social media as a marketing tool to its fullest extent, which changes every day! Everyone should check out our social media sites for our latest updates about industry news.

Now, let’s have some fun... What is Jane’s fave Hoboken Restaurant?

My favorite restaurant in Hoboken is Court Street. Its unique spot on the cobble stoned corner of 6th and Court is a Hoboken classic. The food is great, the staff friendly and the crowd is a great group of local Hobokenites and visitors as well.

Her fave hang out in the ‘Boken is...

Hanging out at the W Hotel is a luxury that we all now have in Hoboken! It’s a great place to meet clients after work while enjoying the fantastic view from the Chandelier Room.

Does she stick to Hoboken’s baseball roots? 

Of course! Her office is full of sports fans and baseball in particular. The enthusiasm is infectious and keeps her office energized.

Jane came up with an incredible tag line and theme for Hoboken. Smile with us when you read it, we know you’ll agree:

Small town, Big Heart

Wow! We are on a roll. Congratulations to Jane Estes and her growing success at Empire Realty. This is what Hoboken Women in Biz is about... sharing the expertise of the leading ladies that work hard, love this town and add to the taste of the small town we enjoy. Visit Jane and say hi when you’re on Washington passing Empire. Tell her you read her rewarding piece in today’s blog.