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JANE H. GUERIN
Jane H. Guerin is the owner of Everything Gardening in Fredericksburg
Date published: 1/23/2008
THE BUSINESS: Everything Gardening was founded in May 2006. Guerin has been an avid gardener for more than 30 years. The store, which has a courtyard entrance, sells garden ornaments, wrought-iron garden elements, outdoor-living furniture, Old World fountains, pottery, live topiaries and gifts for the gardener. Seasoned and beginner gardeners are welcome.
EDUCATION: Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Montevallo in Alabama. Graduate studies at Auburn University.
FAMILY: Married 27 years to Newton Guerin, who is the American Liver Foundation's chief operating officer. Two sons: Hammond, an IT consultant in Washington, and Hunter, a senior at Clemson University.
CAREER HISTORY: After teaching for a year and attending one year of graduate school, I began working with the American Cancer Society. I loved working in the nonprofit sector, making a difference in people's lives. After six years with the ACS, I was named director of the Cancer Information Service at the Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. From there, I joined the staff of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. My most recent position was vice president for field relations for the eastern half of the United States.
FIRST JOB: Elementary school teacher.
WORST JOB: Working in a Yellow Stamp redemption store when I was about 18 years old.
WHERE DID YOU GROW UP? Montgomery, Ala.
HOW DID YOU END UP OWNING EVERYTHING GARDENING? For years, I have thought about owning my own business. For the last six years, I have been making day trips to nurseries and garden gift shops in our region. In addition to a passion for gardening, I also get very energized when I identify a need and then create a way to meet that need. I felt that there was a need for a shop like mine in Fredericksburg, so I decided to create Everything Gardening.
WHAT IS THE KEY TO RUNNING A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS? Good financial management is first and foremost. However, I believe that a commitment to meeting the needs of the customer is a close second. As a shop owner, you must listen to the customer's voice and respond to the best of your ability. If you do that, you will build loyal relationships with your customers who will consistently support your business.
Date published: 1/23/2008
Most recent reader comments:
I must say that this is one of my favorite shops in downtown. She is SO friendly and inviting and the courtyard is beautiful. Many of the businesses downtown act like they are doing you a favor by just opening their door, but she is truly pleasant and that brings me back every time. She speaks to everyone who enters the store and carries some really neat products. I also love the Write Touch and Legacy across the street for all the same reasons.
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