Holiday Circle: Reflect & ReInvent is coming to Camas on Monday December 16 from 6-8 pm at Salud Wine Bar, and is an invitation for women to reinvent themselves, says event organizer, Christie Ribary, who founded 100 Women Who Care Clark County.
“Don’t let another year ago by without being the woman you want to be, feeling empowered to actually become her, and having the plan to reinvent your life to achieve it,” says Ribary.
The Holiday Circle costs $60 and includes a glass of wine, 40-page full journal workbook, two-hour live event guided by Ribary, a one-hour live video conference on Dec 30th at 6 pm PST, and six email journal prompts from Christie focused on the themes of mindfulness, alignment and reinvention.
“If you are ending this year frustrated because you lost sight of your dreams in the ‘busyness’ of life, or your self care was non-existent, if the demands of family or friends came entirely before yours, or if overall things are ‘good’ but you want incredible in 2020, or if you feel plain stuck then you need to join us,” says Ribary. “If you daily reality aka your ‘status quo’ doesn’t align for you anymore than we want you to join our circle of disrupters — women who are intentionally planning to make big and little changes in their lives for 2020 so that they can live bigger, better, and more joyfully.”
“In our time together you review your life in 2019 and start planning, dreaming, and scheming for 2020,” she says. “You will be taking your life out of autopilot and REDESIGNING it exactly like you dream for it to be next year.”
Ribary insists the evening will have no judgment, and will simply be a room of supportive, caring and like-minded women who want to make positive changes in their lives.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/07074346/7B0BBE21-F6C7-4493-9A95-C25569736A27.jpeg6191233Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-12-02 16:05:162019-12-02 16:05:24Holiday Circle: Reflect & ReInvent Coming to Salud on December 16
McKeanSmith Law Firm, with offices in Vancouver, Portland, and Hillsboro, continues it expansion with the recent hiring of David Rocker, who specializes in commercial litigation.
Rocker, who’s based in their Portland office, brings 25 years of litigation experience to McKeanSmith, which continues to earn awards and accolades for their work.
“I specialize in commercial litigation, but I have experience with everything from family law to personal injury cases for both plaintiffs and defendants,” said Rocker. “I handle contract disputes, partnership disputes, and I’ve worked on products liability cases — everything from prescription drugs to heavy equipment, and how to defend against lawsuits, how to report product problems, and how to recall the product if it’s having a significant problem.”
Rocker has handled serious cases, including wrongful death lawsuits, and has frequently taken case to trial.
“It’s a risk management culture we live in now,” said Rocker. “Trials are bad for the bottom line and suck up a lot of resources. Most cases do settle out of court, but I think I’ve got one now that’s apt to go to trial. It’s a case against a nursing care facility and the allegation is that they mismanaged the drug protocol, resulting in the death of a young man.”
What brought him to McKeanSmith?
“I worked for 25 years for large law firms, and became fatigued by the business realities of practicing law at a large firm. I wanted to try something diffferent, so I started thinking about joining a smaller law firm. I looked around, and this firm struck me as entrepreneurial with all kinds of great opportunities for growth.”
He says McKeanSmith is a good fit.
“We’re pleased to have David here,” said Collin McKean, one of the firm’s partners. “He has an incredible background in commercial litigation, and we like how he can see so many resolutions to a problem.”
McKeanSmith recently moved into their new offices at the Murdock Tower at Vancouver Waterfront.
Background
Rocker is a local, hailing from Beaverton High School, and graduating from the University of Oregon in Political Science and International Studies. He took a few years between undergrad studies and law school working as a business analyst for Dunn and Bradstreet, and then working as dispatcher and EMT at the south rim of the Grand Canyon.
He returned to U of O where he earned his law degree.
Why law?
“When I was a kid, everyone told me I should be a lawyer,” said Rocker. “I entered debate club in high school and did well in junior and senior year. I did theater too, and these experiences made me comfortable in front of an audience. Growing up, some of my neighbors were lawyers, they seemed interesting and smart, and I guess I just thought lawyers were cool.”
“I try to be a good listener. I’ve been told that I’m a creative thinker. I think I done this long enough that I can see more angles into a program than a less experienced lawyer. I’m not afraid to tell a client they can solve a problem on their own, and I’m not afraid to take a case to trial if we have to. I care less about the business of law and more about the human side of the practice. A client can come to me and know for sure that I’m taking the case because I care about them and the issues, and not just about getting paid for my time.”
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And he also likes to keep moving.
“I have to keep moving around,” he said. “I walk to work everyday. I’ve run Hood to Coast 13 times. I’ve run every leg. I’ve run a marathon, a bunch of half marathons.”
His most interesting case?
“I represented the founder of a nationally prominent chocolate company. He had wanted to grow the business and he got involved with two investors who ended up being completely dishonest corporate partners,” he said. “We were able to turn that around quite effectively and my client received an outstanding financial settlement. Jane Goodall, the famous biologist, was working with us as a character and factual witness. Every time I saw my client he’d give me 20 pounds of chocolate, so that was a bonus.
McKeanSmith was ranked #10 in the Portland Business Journal’s 2019 Healthiest Employers of Oregon in the 2-99 category. The award was created to recognize organizations that are committed to creating a healthy workplace. The assessment is made of six factoring categories and scoring with the help of the academic, medical, wellness, and business communities.
Vancouver, WA — The law firm, McKeanSmith LLC, officially moved into their spacious new offices at the stunning Vancouver Waterfront on April 1, and they couldn’t be happier.
“I love the fact that Vancouver is reclaiming its waterfront,” said Collin McKean, the firm’s co-founder. “I find that being next to water is an inspiring place to be. I grew up living on a body of water and it’s a great way to give clients a calming location to do our work and help them through their life transitions.”
The firm, established in 2015, moved their nine employees from their downtown Vancouver office to the fifth floor of the Murdock Tower, which has commanding views of the Columbia River and the I-5 bridge. The nearly 3,800 square foot space gives McKeanSmith room to grow. Their Vancouver office provides legal services in the following areas: family law (including collaborative family law), employment law, business law, general litigation, and criminal law. They also have offices in Portland and Hillsboro.
“As lawyers, we work hard, sometimes long hours for our clients, and it’s important to be in a place you like to be in,” said McKean. “Given we have a front row seat to the waterfront, we’ve taken a unique approach to the gathering space. The location is also comforting to our clients, who are often going through major life changes.”
Several McKeanSmith employees at Vancouver’s Waterfront.
The move is also a reflection of the firm’s positive momentum.
“We have a good reputation so we continue to get referrals in from our clients for family law work, and our attorneys are very active in the community,” said McKean. “We value them, and invest in small businesses and support them. We’re looking to increase our employment law practice and support for small businesses. We’re handling typical small business issues with transactional litigation needs.”
And, their work isn’t going unnoticed by their peers.
“We’re proud our lawyers have been recognized in Vancouver for Best Lawyer designations. Annelisa Smith, Deanna Rusch, and I are Super Lawyer Rising Stars,” said McKean. “We’re also ranked top tier in the Portland/Vancouver metro area by US News and World Report, which ranks all firms.”
The office, with its modern touches, brings in a lot of natural light, and a nearly 180 degree view of the waterfront and downtown Vancouver.
“The office offers a calm and serene location and atmosphere because whether they’re new or existing they’re all in some form of turmoil, so you can’t underestimate the importance of that,” said Rusch.
“I have a beautiful view of Mt. Hood, the river and the I-5 Bridge, and kind of just the whole eastern part of the waterfront development that is still under construction. I like watching the boats go by.”
“Family law was the cornerstone of the practice so that was really what they had been doing. Since then, Collin especially has grown into other practice areas. So, when I joined the firm in October 2017 it was to continue my family law practice, which is mostly in Clark County. I represent anyone, mostly in divorces, and my clients range from little to no assets to high assets.”
Art from Attic Gallery in Camas.
And, as part of their commitment to small business and things local, the firm invested heavily in local art to adorn their new office space.
Rusch put partners McKean and Smith in touch with Maria Gonser, owner of Attic Gallery in downtown Camas. Gonser works with local artists, and assisted them with the whole process, even taking a Sunday afternoon to hang the artwork in entrance, hallway, and conference room.
“The art on left-hand side in the conference room are from the Sandra Jones Campbell Pendleton series,” said Gonser. “She had 30 paintings in that series. The pieces on the other side are all from Pendleton. The ‘Broad Shoulders’ cowboy is her father. The ones on the right are inspired from old photographs. She’ll get a series of photographs from a particular era and she recreates those pictures in her paintings.”
McKeanSmith also bought an Earl Hamilton abstract, wood carvings by Monica Setziol-Phillips, and a massive piece by Cedar Lee.
“Collin and Annelisa went through this process with great detail,” said Rusch. “I’m very appreciative of their support and follow through.”
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/07080249/F13CB18F-344D-4F17-BE95-391B0D4CB94C-scaled.jpeg8812560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-07-31 11:47:122019-07-31 11:48:00McKeanSmith Law Firm Expands Into Murdock Vancouver Waterfront Tower
One Stop Home Furnishings has a rich Camas history and a proven track record at recognizing trends and being there for their customer base. We sat down with store owners Dave and Molly Fletcher as they answered questions about business, family, and local history. Please enjoy this Q&A format.
The store is located at 2140 SE 8th Avenue, right at the SR 14 roundabout and on-ramp.
How long has One Stop Home Furnishings been here?
The business started in 1954, when it was incorporated. My grandfather started it in the One Stop Shopping Center, the same complex where Domino’s Pizza is today. My grandmother was a driving force. My grandparents built that shopping center. It was one of the first in the northwest, and it was revolutionary. There was free parking. They had a grocery store, a shoe store, a hardware store, Nan Henriksen’s father had a drug store — all in one center. I remember as a kid going to some of those stores.
Hazel and Mickey Schwary were the ones who started it in 1954. Then dad and mom, Winn and Joanne Fletcher, came in 1958.
They started in the back side where the driving school used to be. Then after my father came in, they expanded, and added furniture and mattresses. Eventually, we moved into the anchor spot, and then we moved into this much larger location on April 1, 1998. We’ve been here 21 years.
We were in the old place for 44 years, and we’ve been here at this location for 21 years, so now we’re the oldest independent furniture store by quite a bit.
We bought the business from my mom and dad, and I’ve been working it since 1983. Molly came in seven years ago full-time. Needless to say, it’s a family business. We work pretty hard at it.
We’ve been here almost 65 years. And, there are several other longtime local family-run businesses, as well — such as Lutz, Gunderson Les Schwab Tires, Runyan’s, Westlie Ford, Columbia Litho and Washougal Lumber. We all have longevity. I believe that businesses don’t hang around a long time if they don’t treat customers well.
This vibrant blue adds pop to any family living space.
What do you want to be known most for?
Good quality product at good prices and great values. I think also the fact that we’ve been here so long people can trust us. And, if a problem arises, we react quickly. We work hard to maintain a good reputation in the community.
We get a lot of five stars on our ratings, but this is how we grew up — by taking care of people. We take care of people, not account numbers.
It’s a pretty personal approach, we’re not on commission here. It’s a “turtle and the hare” type of approach, and we’re the turtle. The pace is a little different than some stores. Doing business this way is more comfortable and fun. This is the type of business we really enjoy.
We’re also very proud of the 59-year run we had selling appliances, but it got to the point where there were too few places to buy furniture, and many places to buy appliances. We felt there would be an increasing need for furniture and mattresses in our area, due to growth projections. The trick is staying current, and adapting to new trends.
My wife is so good with colors and decorating. We have designers that we work with, and we do have a few that we recommend.
I would say we have a friendly atmosphere, we go out of our way by helping people match up what they have in their minds with what we can offer. We don’t expect to close every sale, but we are very competitively priced.
A reclining sectional sofa.
What are all the things you sell?
Stanton — we like them because they’re local and family owned, been around for 40+ years. Beautyrest, Serta, Ashley, England Furniture, which is owned by Lazy Boy, which is made in Tennessee. They have so many fabrics. Aspen makes case goods, anything with wood — bedroom sets, dining sets, occasional tables. Whittier Wood, made in Eugene, is also a very quality line. We have 12-15 brands that we do most of our business with.
Why should people visit One Stop Home Furnishings?
Price is always king. You don’t stay in business for 65 years if you’re not priced well. Plus, there’s there personal touch. If there are problems we will deal with them because it’s a personal thing to me. I take it personally if we goof up.
We really try to make sure that people get what they pay for, and we want people to know we care.
We say hello and let people absorb what we have, there’s no pressure here.
We have an upstairs bargain area, too. Our main focus, though, is selling quality items.
And, it’s been interesting over these 65 years, we’ve seen many brands that didn’t survive us. I went to Camas High School, graduated in 1974, and I’ve seen a lot of changes to the area.
We go to two furniture markets each year and we keep up with new products, colors, fabrics, and styles. Every 18-24 months colors start to change.
One Stop Home Furnishings offers a great selection of mattresses and bed frames.
Even in today’s Internet world, we encourage customers to try it before they buy it. Lay down, sit down, recline, feel it. Usually with things you’re going to sleep on, you would feel more comfortable trying it instead of just hoping it works.
We’re quite a different store from 10 years ago by getting out of the appliance business and upgrading much of our furniture offerings.
People are usually surprised and, hopefully, impressed by what they see inside. If someone has never been in before, we always invite them to stop in for just a visit. Plus, come by and meet our four-legged mascots, Cubby and Cooper!
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/07080308/503C6591-0FD3-4D07-B0DF-985678A614CB-scaled.jpeg13222560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-07-31 11:12:582019-07-31 21:03:00One Stop Home Furnishings: Success Through Three Generations
After months of construction delays, Ali Alquraisha, the owner of Camas Produce, said he plans to open the store in mid-August.
The front of the store was demolished in January when the driver of a black SUV accidentally drove through causing significant damage to the structure and to appliances within.
Walking through the building, Alquraisha pointed out the front of the store has been re-framed with new steel, and they are awaiting the installation of new glass across the entire facade.
“The new glass is one of the things that has taken a significant amount of time,” he said. “We installed new steel frames, but had to order special glass.”
He also said January’s accident caused damage to the rear refrigerator, which had to be replaced.
“What looks like an easy fix, really isn’t,” he said. “We had to order a new refrigerator, and once we looked at replacing things, we realized we had to move the drain back three feet. That’s taken a lot longer than expected. Each new fix has a ripple effect, and things take several weeks to months to get resolved.”
Aesthetically, the store will have a fresh coat of paint, new floors, new tables, and the overall look and feel will change.
“We look forward to re-opening,” said Alquraisha. “Every day people stop by to check on us.”
The Camas Produce facade will have new steel frames and glass.
Results of Toxicology Report
Camas Police said that Terra Stark, 39, of Camas, accidentally put the car in drive while parked at Camas Produce, and plowed through the front center of the building. Her teen son was in the vehicle with her.
The Camas Police reported the results of the toxicology test Friday evening.
“Toxicology results just came back today for this investigation; Scoles-Stark’s blood alcohol level was .26,” said Camas Police Public Information Officer, Debrah Riedl. “This is how busy our Washington labs are.”
The legal limit in Washington is .08.
Riedl said charges are pending lab results, and that Stark would be booked and released. She expects her to face charges this Thursday in court.
Vancouver Laser Skin Care Clinic, located in Downtown Camas, is having a couple of July treatment specials — 25% off Ultherapy® full face or neck, Buy One Get One 50 percent off on leg vein treatments, and $11 per unit of Botox.
“It’s a great offer,” said Lori Keller, Master Aesthetician, and owner of Vancouver Laser. “We’re so grateful to our customers. Give us a call today at 360. 823.0795 to schedule your complimentary consultation. The Ultherapy® special includes Laser Genesis Treatment, which targets texture, pore Size, fine Lines, wrinkles and scarring, a $250 value.”
Ultherapy® is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure that utilizes the power of focused ultrasound technology, and sound waves to simulate collagen to lift, tone and tighten the skin. The Ultherapy procedure can be performed on the eyes, brow, face, neck and under the chin and chest. This technology stimulates the production of collagen resulting in continuous improvement of the tone and tightness. An Ultherapy procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the area treated. Ultherapy delivers outstanding results without surgery or downtime.
With over 30 years of aesthetic laser and skin care experience and expertise, Master Aesthetician, Lori Keller, knows that looking and feeling confident play a big part in our well-being.
Ultherapy: Before and after.
“If you like how you look, you feel more positive and content in your daily life,” says Keller. “But environmental factors such as sun exposure, and physiological factors such as genetics and aging, all can play a role in changing your outward appearance. We help restore confidence by repairing some of the damage our environment and aging can cause.”
When Vancouver Laser Skin Care Clinic (VLSCC) decided to move its offices to Downtown Camas, they brought more than 30 years of aesthetic laser and skin care experience and an array of treatments and products that rejuvenate skin and restore your youthful glow. They feel good when you look great.
Their office at 715 NE 5th Avenue is charming, and peaceful, and is part of the history and future of Camas, a quaint and successful town that many say is a city about wellness.
“We love being part of this wonderful and historic downtown scene,” said Keller, who owns VLSCC. “And, we invite you to come see what we’re all about. — from pre-teen/adult acne sufferers to mature patients.”
VLSCC offers many services, including: IPL, Chemical Peels, Microneedling, Ultherapy, Face and Leg Vein Removal, Botox, and more!
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/07080950/160FE1A4-40A5-4089-9172-A883FBC76D78.jpeg364960Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-07-18 12:06:562019-07-18 12:07:03Business Scene: Vancouver Laser — 25% Off Ultherapy Treatments, More
The highly successful Arktana Shoes is opening its second store in Felida (by Vancouver Lake) on Monday, July 1, with a special grand opening celebration set for July 23.
“It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a long time, and we found the perfect spot here in Felida,” said owner Ann Matthews. “We’re so excited to make this happen. It’s a fun expansion, although there is risk involved. We have a good following in Camas and the surrounding areas, so feel it was time to grow.”
Matthews has been working with contractors for months building out the brand-new space to fit their needs. And, although it’s a new build out, the interior reflects the Camas store and overall Arktana Shoes brand with a red brick wall, clean lines, and quality products.
Photographer Lara Blair sat down with Matthews, and asked her several questions.
Question: Why another Arktana Shoes?Why open another store?
Answer: I started looking for a new location a year ago, and I looked all over the place. When I found this place there were already Camas-based businesses over here. Camas Star Cycle is out here, Grapes and Growlers, so is Los Potrillos, and we love them! It’s like a little hub of Camas that moved to Felida. I love this community and I’ve heard nothing but good things about it.
Lara Blair interviewed Ann Matthews at her new Arktana Felida store.
Question: Is it risky?
Answer: It feels very scary. Are people going to find us? Will they support retail out here? It’s new here, there’s not a lot of retail out here. My gut drew me to this, and I have complete faith. We have such loyal clients.
Question: Who’s your client?
Answer: My client is anybody from mom’s to business people to those who travel. We cater to a lot of travelers. We have every day wear, but we also cater to the dressier side. One thing unique to Arktana is that we do extra extra small to 3X, we have the plus sizes and the little tiny sizes. Our shoes are sizes 5 to 11 and that is also a very important component. We buy the comfort lines that are a little wider, and we can accommodate the narrow foot, as well.
Question: How does the Arktana Felida differ from the Camas store?
Answer: The Felida store will have more clothing than the Camas store, but you will still see lots of shoes, although there will be different color options in Felida. You may see navy shoe in Camas, and red shoe in Felida. Or we might throw a red in Camas and a navy in Felida. And, if you want a red and we only have blue in Felida, we can bring over a red shoe from our Camas store. We’ll take care of you.
Front sign.
Front door.
Lots of shoes!
Question: Will Ann be at both stores? There’s concern that Camas will no longer see you.
Answer: That has been so funny to me. I have gotten the sweetest emails and texts. We are not going to close Camas. This is a second location. We are absolutely not leaving Camas. I will be at both stores. I’ll be honest, in ]uly I’ll be at Felida a lot more as we get this store up and running. I do intend to be at both stores in the same day. If somebody wants to be ahold of me personally, I will be accessible. I will be there for you — at both stores. I’m not going away.
The new store is located at 10706 NW Lakeshore Avenue, Suite 108, Vancouver, WA. Their special grand opening is scheduled for July 23. Learn more at www.Arktana.com
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/07080909/8A758849-E777-4772-9BBF-F99AFD484505-scaled.jpeg18034032Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-06-28 13:59:272019-06-28 13:59:37Camas-based Arktana Shoes to Open Second Boutique in Felida July 1
Running a business is hard work, especially for a single mother. It requires discipline, strategy, planning, and perseverance, but Lisa Lê, owner of Lisa Lê Properties — A Boutique Experience, says it’s mostly about building relationships.
And that’s the way she structured her real estate boutique — on serving others.
“I am passionate about helping my clients find their forever home, or helping them get the most value from the home they want to sell, so they can get top dollar and get the right new owners in place so it feels like a perfect fit on both sides,” says Lê. “I like to create different marketing campaigns to help sell homes.”
The accomplished realtor, with four college degrees (criminal justice, political science, psychology and sociology) set up shop on 4th Avenue in Downtown Camas and immediately created a welcoming space for business and social functions. She’s also well-known for her 24/7 Window Vision Display, which is an interactive touchscreen system showcasing homes and local businesses.
“People love it,” said Lê. “They can come by anytime to see our 24/7 RMLS feed to see any listing in Clark County. “It’s a great conversation starter.”
Carrie Schulstad, Executive Director of the Downtown Camas Association (DCA), says the window display is a big draw in the downtown area. The window itself has achieved local accolades, and earned Lê a prestigious DCA award: 2018 Outstanding Window Display.
Lê works very hard to make sure people feel welcome in our community.
“I’m also a big believer in giving back,” she said.
Lisa Lê helps out with a back-to-school supplies project.
After becoming a single mom, Lê founded a Divorce Empowerment Alliance Advisory Group, with the mission to educate, support, and empower anyone navigating the uncharted waters of separation or divorce. The group is composed of experts who are available to assist those in need.
She also believes local businesses need to support one another, so she founded Collaborative Camas, a network of Camas businesses that meets regularly to discuss challenges, solutions, and to simply socialize.
Lisa Lê Properties — A Boutique Experience also works closely with the Camas Hotel, with whom she partnered to create the Keys To Camas program, which gives shoppers discounts and incentives to shop local. Lê’s work on this program is what earned her business the DCA’s 2018 Creative Local Marketing Award.
Lisa Lê won two prestigious DCA awards.
“We have a great history here in Camas, plus many great businesses that we want people to know about,” she said. “It’s a successful program.”
Part of that commitment is shown in her active involvement with the DCA.
“I’m also involved in all their First Friday’s and signature events, which showcase the best of Camas,” said Lê.
And, most recently she was a platinum sponsor of the Camas Wellness Festival, which is a local non-profit organization.
“This is a perfect fit for me and for Lisa Lê Properties; as a woman and mother, I believe strongly in promoting physical and mental health, especially in our children,” said Lê.
She is also a member of Soroptimists International, which is a global volunteer organization that economically empowers women and girls by providing access to education, the single most effective anti-poverty intervention.
If you’d like to visit her, and learn more about her services, please visit her office at 418 NE 4th Avenue in the heart of Downtown Camas.
“I’m just really happy to be part of the Camas community,” said Lê. “It’s a great place to raise a family, and simply enjoy life. Be my guest.”
The Lisa Lé Properties — A Boutique Experience has a fantastic Window Display.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/07083138/B0AEB6BE-0041-4B2D-8B5A-04D1A0E1B0B2-e1549139312933.jpeg708640Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-02-02 12:33:322019-02-02 12:33:32Lisa Lê Believes Real Estate Biz About Building Relationships, Trust
Last Christmas season, in an effort to support locally owned and operated businesses, I made a point to shop FIRST in downtown Camas, Washougal, and other small companies in Vancouver. My goal was to buy as much as I could without going to the mall, or into the traffic congested streets of Portland — or even going online.
The results amazed me! I was able to make 80 percent of my purchases before going anywhere else. I found some really cool treasures, some really fun gifts that my sons continue to enjoy. Once I did all I could at these sweet little shops, I ventured to the malls, struggled to find a parking space, listened to the madness, and made other purchases.
Yes, the mall has some great things, too, and I was happy to support the local business there, as well. But, I was all too pleased to leave and return to the peace of Downtown Camas to sip a hot chocolate at Caffe Piccolo, or enjoy a burger at Feast.
Inside Lily Atelier, in Downtown Camas.
I see daily the up’s and down’s that local small businesses contend with, and I appreciate their steadfastness and continued hard work to serve us. So, I went to several local shops, and asked them what we can do to support them.
Here’s the list:
When you visit the store, check-in on social media.
Snap a photo of a product you like.
Post the photo and tag the store on social media.
Share your favorite store’s social media posts. Like, follow, share, share, share.
Bring in your out-of-town guests.
Follow the store on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter).
Word of mouth. Simply tell your friends to shop there for Christmas purchases.
Get to know the retailers and how they support other businesses, including local artists, jewelers, card designers.
Choose in-store products that give back to charitable foundations.
Boost a store’s Yelp presence by giving them a positive review.
And, of course, buy, buy, buy!
Arktana is a women’s and men’s shoe store, which has won many awards.
Downtown Camas at night.
Little treasures at Camas Antiques.
Fun stuff at Camas Antiques.
Allure is a women’s boutique in Downtown Camas.
The Artful Attic offer laser engravings. See the Lacamas Magazine logo?
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/07090417/084F871F-20A5-4F50-B5A1-0E40B7633F60-e1543008554892-scaled.jpeg16184021Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2018-11-23 13:33:512018-11-25 23:25:05Supporting Small Businesses: Top 10 Things You Can Do Today
During a quiet stroll on 4th Avenue in Downtown Camas, you can’t miss Lisa Lê Properties and her 24/7 Window Vision Display. It looks really fun during the day, but it’s even more entertaining at night with its lights, touch pad, and numerous real estate listings. She’s also using the space to promote preferred local businesses and services.
Lê, who opened up this office in January, is a veteran real estate broker and longtime Camas resident, and may be the town’s biggest promoter and cheerleader.
“I’m all about Camas and promoting what we’re all about,” said Lê, who refers to Lisa Lê Properties as a Boutique Experience. “We know that buying or selling a home can be stressful, so our talented team members take care of all the details. We work hard to make your experience quick, painless, and even joyful.”
Lê’s experience has taught her that no two clients are alike, so her team spends time with each client to listen and tend to their needs — and that’s where the boutique experience comes into play.
“We custom tailor our boutique services to fit your needs,” said Lê. “So we do things differently here.”
The boutique experience includes the following:
Free Home Staging — The Lisa Lê Properties staging experts come into a client’s home to make it look its best, and sell faster at a higher price.
Curb Appeal — Does your home’s exterior need a little touch-up? Lê’s team will help.
Guest Services — If you’re moving to Camas, Lê’s team will provide up to a two night’s stay at the historic modern Camas Hotel.
Celebration — Once the deal is done, Lisa Lê Properties will treat you to a finely catered party for 25 of your closest family and friends.
Lisa Lê Properties has a 24/7 Window Vision Display at their office in Downtown Camas.
“I’ve spent many years selling homes in the area,” said Lê. “I build long-term relationships with my clients. I take the time to know you, learn your needs and understand your goals. Your satisfaction is my priority.”
As part of her commitment to all things local, Lê also organized a group called Collaborative Camas, which helps local businesses meet, cross-promote, and explain what they do. They meet every two weeks. She’s also heavily involved in the local Soroptomist group, which raises funds to help families, with a focus on educational expenses.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/07091459/64105723-DDFA-4F74-80F8-DEA90BB3F4CC-e1541462989659.jpeg385638Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2018-11-05 17:02:332018-11-05 17:02:33Lisa Lê Explains Why Her Real Estate Office is a ‘Boutique Experience’
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