Founded:

Number of employees: 2

Career highlights: I attended college at ASU and graduated with a B.S. in Biochemistry. After receiving my degree, I worked in the non-profit medical sector for a bit before moving on to assisting in research at the University of Arizona Medical Campus in downtown Phoenix. After working in science for almost five years, the urge to become my own boss and thrive as an entrepreneur took hold, and I decided to look for open opportunities to fill this desire. I pitched the idea of starting up a small ice cream and cupcake shop to my father and he very much encouraged the idea, offered to help out, and even knew of a good spot for the business – directly across from the ASU Art Museum in Tempe. Since opening, we’ve been able to add pastries, coffee, tea and a small espresso machine, as well as Coca-Cola and Red Bull products to the menu. Every day, as we operate the business, we come up with new ideas that we hope we can incorporate at Flavor in order to keep it growing and thriving within the Tempe/ASU community.

Important business milestones: Making it for one year. It was a great relief. We learned a lot of lessons and took immense satisfaction when we made the one-year mark. We now have an idea of what to expect throughout the year. Our focus will continue to be serving the local Tempe and ASU community, offering our customers their unique Flavor of ice cream, coffee and beverages. It’s been such an experience getting to know the neighbors and creating strong friendships with them; getting their feedback and an open-armed welcome has been so rewarding.

Next business goal: Flavor started small and continues to grow – slowly but, thankfully, still growing. For our next big step, my wish is to add an oven in the shop so that we can start providing fresh-baked cookies, cakes, pastries and breads on site. There really is no substitute for that sweet aroma that comes from baking and I want the shop to constantly have a scent that people can directly associate with the Flavor.

Best business advice you have received: “It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon – best to pace yourself.”

More information at: Facebook.com/FlavorOnMill; also on Twitter and Instagram @FlavorOnMill 

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Photo by Cassandra Tomei/Tomei Studios

In business since: The company was founded in July of 2009, and the Grand Opening took place on October 19,2009

Number of employees: 27 full-time employees and 80 independent contractor drivers

Elevator pitch: Clean Air Cab is a national leader in environmentally friendly, 100 percent carbon neutral taxicab fleets. Our triple bottom line sustainability business model is unique in the entire industry: people, planet, profit – in that order! We are helping to develop the 21^st century’s green economy by integrating eco-conscious products and services into the everyday lives of our clients.

Tell us about Clean Air Cab’s philanthropic efforts: We are committed to giving back to the community with our “Community Cares Program,” in which one dollar of every fare in our specialty cabs is donated to a designated charity, including Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the ASU scholarship program, Phoenix Children’s Hospital and the United Way. At ASU, the Clean Air Cab Scholarship helps high-performing students with financial needs and an interest in innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainability attend Arizona State University in either the College of Technology and Innovation or the School of Sustainability.

Business milestones: Our business was started at the height of the recession in 2009. We started with ten cabs and zero calls. By the end of 2012, we successfully completed 200,000 calls with 44 cabs. We have grown our fleet 400 percent since opening our doors and we see no end to our widening popularity.

Career highlights: Instituting a program to provide scholarships to ASU students; getting a letter from Congressman David Schweikert congratulating us for making the community proud; meeting the mayor of Phoenix’ senior policy advisor for sustainability, Colin Tetreault; signing with the NFL to be the service provider for the 2015 Super Bowl hosted by Phoenix

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? If I had appreciated how powerful a role social media were going to play in reaching our clientele, I would have implemented their use much earlier.  

Final word: We are not your ordinary cab company and anybody who uses our service will tell you that we consistently exceed industry expectations.

Contact info: 480-777-9777; cleanaircab.com

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Photo by Lamp Left Media

Founded: 2009

Career highlights: My husband, JR, and I both come from a long background in marketing and public relations. After having worked with a variety of industry-related firms here in the Valley, we felt it was time to start investing in ourselves and in our future. And, so, Cardenas Marketing was born. I mention my husband because the business was as much a joint effort back then as it is now; Cardenas Marketing is definitely synonymous with Erica and JR Cardenas, and I feel that all who know us, or who have worked with us, would agree!

What prompted you to compete in the Mrs. Arizona America Pageant? I honestly believe that we all have an obligation in this lifetime that goes well beyond ourselves. We all have a story to tell and a voice to be heard. My goal is to earn the title of Mrs. Arizona America 2013 and share the “crown” with ALL girls and women. We need to lift each other up, support one another and, above all, inspire one another! I became a mother at 16 years old. I immediately was placed in a category, and became a statistic of failure. Like many teen moms, I endured many obstacles along the way, but I persevered, finished college, and did everything in my power to work toward my goals and dreams. I feel it’s my obligation to share my story with other young women because we all have it in us to do amazing things. We just sometimes need that gentle reminder to believe in ourselves.

Elevator pitch: Cardenas Marketing is a full-service, multicultural marketing, advertising and PR firm based in Phoenix. We enjoy creating strategic communications platforms for our clients that are unique, memorable and culturally relevant to the marketplace. Bottom line – we thrive on creating positive, brand-exposure experiences and opportunities for our clients in English y en español también!

Next business goal: Cardenas Marketing is a small firm and, honestly, we have no intention of growing into a 20-person firm any time soon. However, we most definitely are looking to expand our client roster in 2013. I’m proud to say that we have earned a reputation in the community for being a solid Hispanic marketing/PR firm that goes above and beyond client expectations. I have a great feeling that our hard work will continue to pay off and that this year is going to be exceptional! 

Best business advice you have received: One piece of advice that I’ve always carried with me is that business is absolutely based on relationships. Since we started the business, most of our client work has been based on the relationships we’ve made along the way. Nurturing and growing the business contacts and relationships you have will always open doors down the road. 

Company website: cardenasmarketing.com; also look for us on facebook.com/cardenasmktg and twitter.com/cardenasmktg  

Erica Cardenas is a regular contributor to Latino Perspectives Magazine and will compete in the 2013 Mrs. Arizona America Pageant that will take place April 5-6 at the Tempe Center for the Arts.

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In business since:

Why did you decide to start your own business? As far back as I can remember, I knew I wanted to work in the legal field as a lawyer or stenographer. When I turned 18, I began my career as a receptionist/filing clerk in a small personal injury law firm downtown, and decided that I wanted to advance my career in the legal field. I enrolled in a private college/trade school, the American Institute for Legal Studies. After two years, I received my Associate of Science Degree in Paralegal Studies and, soon after, was promoted to a paralegal position. After many years of working for law firms, raising a family and helping family and friends with their legal paperwork (for free), I decided I should make this a business and applied at the Supreme Court of Arizona to receive my LDP (Legal Document Preparer license and certificate). I passed the exam and received my license six months later. I love the flexibility and being able to spend more time with my family, which is a huge perk of having your own business.

Professional background: 17 years in the legal field as a paralegal at some of the most prestigious law firms in the Valley; in 2004, I obtained my real estate license and currently work as an agent for Equity Realty Group; in 2010, I qualified and passed my exam at the Supreme Court of Arizona, obtained my LDP license and Arizona Paralegal Alliance opened its doors for business.

Career highlights: I have to say this: Being selected as “Entrepreneur of the Month” for Latino Perspectives’ February issue – my birthday month. I couldn’t ask for a better gift!

What makes your business great? The simple pleasure of helping those people who need legal help but do not have the means to hire an attorney. I love that I can save people so much money and still help them meet their goals. I get to reunite families by establishing parenting time and custody.

Business goals for 2013: I would love to open a storefront office on South Central where I can take walk-ins and assist clients with their family law questions and/or prepare their documents right there on the spot.

Most challenging aspect of being a small business owner: I’m always on the clock! Eighty percent of my work is related to family law. So, as you can imagine, at times it’s very tough for some clients and can be a very emotional time in their lives. I keep my phone on, and will counsel or answer any questions or concerns my clients have at all times.

If you could do it all over again, what you would do differently? Not one single thing. I have no regrets and have learned so much throughout the years. I love where my life is and I absolutely love my job!

Website: AzParalegalHelp.com

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Founded:

Career highlights: I came to United States for the first time as an exchange student in 1989 to attend school in southern Oregon, in small, artisitc Ashland. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to learn English and about American culture. I returned to Colombia to finish my education with a degree in Business Administration followed by a major in Marketing and Advertising. Ultimately, I came back to the U.S. as the next big step in my career and life, and where I began my current job and started a family.

Elevator pitch: Through experience, we learned the three key ingredients to making our business successful: price, service and locally ownership. Suitcases & More makes a simple promise to our customers: we always guarantee the lowest prices. No retailer, big nor small, online nor in a warehouse, will ever under-price Suitcases & More. We are a local business that strives to give excellent, knowledgeable customer service. You can find the same items at a different store, but the level and quality of service you get at our store is unmatched.

Suitcases & More sells more than great suitcases. The “More” refers to the many travel accessories, like electrical adaptors and converters that we offer, and also refers to the amount of knowledge that our staff has regarding all aspects of travel. Suitcases & More supports the idea that locally-owned businesses make communities stronger. We are an original member of Local First Arizona.

Important business milestones: This business was begun in 1982 and moved to its current location in 1985. I was lucky enough to become a part of this family in 2002. After suffering harsh losses during our country’s recession, Suitcases & More was able to achieve record sales in 2011. We are proud of our years of loyalty to our customers, and also from our customers. Our next milestone is to join the 21st century with better technology and a larger internet presence. 

Best business advice you have received: When I first came to Suitcases & More, the two pieces of advice that I was given were “one step at a time” and “do not bite off more than you can chew.” My personal advice to others is that, if your customers see that you enjoy your job today, they will be back tomorrow.

If you could do it all over again, what you would do differently? There isn’t much that I could have done differently. It is often said that if you knew “this,” then you could have avoided “that.” There are a lot of things I might have done differently that might have improved one aspect of business, but then might have affected another less positively. If I was better at something or made a different decision about something, I might have made an extra dollar, but, I might have missed a special moment. Thus, if I were to begin anew, I would do more to help others,  because I can’t imagine giving up something I have today for the possibility of getting something else tomorrow.

Website: suitcasesandmore.com  

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Photos by Fer Vega, courtesy of VOLR Salon

Career highlights: Studied cosmetology at the Carsten Institute, an Aveda concept school; attended advanced training at the Bumble & Bumble University in New York and certified as a Framesi colorist and educator; launched and became sole owner of Volr Salon in 2009.

What makes your business great? I am a hair stylist and a master at the craft of hair sculpture, color and design. My business is great because I am committed to the advancement of my profession and the continuing development of my staff. My leadership skills are well known in this industry, and I am vested in ensuring that each and every one of my stylists at Volr Salon is continually striving to further their education and honing their technical skills. We work together to see that every salon client enjoys consistent care and leaves looking their best with the feeling that they can fly. 

Important business milestones: Celebrating over 13 years in this industry is a milestone in itself. However, the creation and development of my business has been, and continues to be, a work in progress, one that adapts to the needs of the community, assimilates the whims of fashion and remains true to the highest degree of perfection, so that our clients are always satisfied. Remaining committed to these ideals constitutes a daily milestone that I am very proud of achieving. 

Business goals for 2013: To continue to serve our clients by providing the best hair services in the state, and to remain committed to the development and growth of downtown Phoenix. Also, it is my goal to continue to train and develop the best staff and stylists in the industry so that, with their help, I can expand the business and brand and venture into international markets.

Best business advice you have received: Never follow the dollar; follow your passion and remain true to your craft.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? I would have become a mentor to budding stylists much earlier in my career, because I get great personal satisfaction in teaching others what I’ve learned and take pride in seeing young stylists develop, grow and become the best they can be.

Website: volrsalon.com  

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Tim Valencia and Tony Eden, Photo courtesy of Humble Pie

Founded: January 17, 2008

Career highlights: I was born and raised in Chula Vista, California, and moved to Arizona to attend the University of Arizona. I joined the Humble Pie family in 2007 before the first location opened. Being a part of the growth of Humble Pie has been an amazing journey. The highlight was opening the second location; it was really exciting to have customers believe in the concept, products and service we offered. It also confirmed that opening multiple locations was possible. We love using local purveyors and constantly focus on quality, which we believe has contributed to the restaurants’ success.

What makes your business great? The menu. Ours features a medley of savory starters, delicious artisan pizzas with fresh ingredients, sandwiches, hamburgers, salads and desserts. The food is complemented by an extensive wine list and specialty cocktails. The polished, yet unpretentious, environment and high-quality dishes continue to earn Humble Pie its reputation as a neighborhood favorite.

Important business milestone: Being awarded two locations in Terminal Four at Sky Harbor Airport is truly a dream come true for all of us. These locations are set to open in 2013.

Why did you decide to help raise awareness about breast cancer? On October 11, 1991, my mom, at only 47 years old, died in my arms. At that moment, I vowed to keep her memory alive and do whatever I could to raise awareness about breast cancer. I’ve walked in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure-Phoenix from year one and with a heavy heart. All of the owners of Humble Pie are guys. I wasn’t sure how they would react when I brought up the idea of making it a company effort to support the annual Komen Phoenix event beyond walking, but the partners were 100 percent on board. They rallied around the idea of participating as a Susan G. Komen third party affiliate. The number of walkers has grown each year; employees wear “Walk with Us” T-shirts, and we donate a portion of the proceeds from our special Pink Menu to the cause. Our plan is to stay involved in this cause long term.

Website: humblepieusa.com

Locations:

2333 N. 7th Street, Phoenix, 602-229-1289

6149 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, 480-556-9900

6501 E Greenway Parkway, Scottsdale, 480-998-2199

15703 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria, 623-334-2700

21050 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix, 480-502-2121

3890 W. Happy Valley Rd., Glendale (Opening December 2012)

Terminal Four at Sky Harbor Airport (Opening 2013) 

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Betty making her famous paletas. The seasonal menu features the best of the market, no canned or frozen fruits, no preservatives or coloring, all spices are ground fresh, and everything is made entirely from scratch. Image courtesy of Paletas Betty

Founded: 2010

Career highlights: Awards and good press are always happy news, but some of my favorite highlights come from our mobile events. Aside from festivals and corporate events, we’ve done several weddings, which are always special because we are able to be a part of such an important day. A recent wedding served our paletas in place of a traditional cake; that just made me smile!

Elevator pitch: Our customers cool down with fresh, seasonal ice- and cream-pops. We use simple “from scratch” recipes that deliver the freshest dessert experience possible. With classic Mexican flavors and newly invented flavors, Paletas Betty is my way of sharing the happiness I experienced as a child growing up with paletas.

Important business milestones: Our original store in Chandler was designed to test the market and determine if the business concept could succeed in a saturated market. Opening the doors to our second store in Tempe validated a lot of hard work from our entire team. 

Business goals for 2012: Our aim in 2011 was to expand our geographic market via a second store. In 2012, we are focusing on increasing our presence in our existing markets by doing more community events and forming strategic partnerships.

Best business advice you have received: “All things being equal, people will do business with a friend; all things being unequal, people will still do business with a friend.”

If you could do it all over again, what you would do differently? From a business perspective, I think we underestimated the seasonality of our industry. I think we could have done a better job aligning our milestones and efforts with cyclical ups and downs.

Website: paletasbetty.com

Locations: 96 W. Boston St., Suite 100, Downtown Chandler, and 425 S. Mill Ave., Suite 109, Downtown Tempe. 

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The vast desert landscape envelops the patio

Founded: May 2009.

Elevator pitch: I own an amazing 6,000-square-foot, Tuscan-style, events’ venue that boasts the most breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains in beautiful Gold Canyon, Arizona. We provide everything from chairs, tables and linens to full service catering, entertainment, bar, flowers, cake, ceremonies and more! Customer service is a priority and our attention to detail is exceptional! We can handle up to 200 guests for weddings, corporate events, quinceañeras, theme parties and anniversaries – any type of celebration, really.

Professional background: Degree in Travel and Tourism; member of the Association of Bridal Consultants and the Wedding and Event Network.

Career highlights: Being in business for over three years and only getting rave reviews from my clients. I am very proud to know that we are doing an exceptional job in making special memories for our clients.

Most challenging aspect of being a small business owner: My location.

Tracy Machajewski

Next business goal: To open a second location in another part of the Valley or, possibly, in California (near the beach!).

Best business advice you have received: Work smarter not harder – I hire pros to do what they do best, which allows me to do what I do best.

Important business milestone: Opening my business at the peak of the recession and successfully building clientele from year to year.

Adjustments made to survive the slow economy? Offering discounts and working with my clients to offer the best service while staying within their budget.

If you could do it all over again, what you would do differently? I would have designed and opened my venue in a more central location.

Website: theviewsatsuperstition.com

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