I was born in Alexandria, VA on an Air Force base. I lived in Baltimore until I was 10 years old, at which time my family moved to Westminster. I went to Westminster High School and graduated from McDaniel College. Most of my life I have lived in Westminster, except for a short period of time when I lived in Hampstead. Six years ago, my husband and I bought my grandparents’ house, just a few miles from where I grew up. It is wonderful to live in a community that has so many people that I have known for most of my life. Five years ago, my husband, his family and I opened Westminster Paint. I am given the opportunity to work with so many people at the store. Our store sells to homeowners, architects, schools, designers and contractors. The list is endless. I help people make their ideas and concepts for their home a reality. Owning a small business also allows us to work with many non-profits in the area. We work with these non-profits to help restore homes, community centers and rehabilitation centers by supplying paint.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family. Include your pets too!
My husband Brendan and I have been married for 10 years and we have 3 beautiful children together: Brayden, Liam, and Caroline.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I graduated from McDaniel College in 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts and a certification in Elementary Education. I taught 1st grade for CCPS for a year before going into the retail industry. After 10+ years working in retail for someone else, my husband and I knew we had a passion to become small business owners. Five years ago, we opened Westminster Paint, a Benjamin Moore Paint store. My favorite part of owning a business is the people I get to meet, help, and talk to. It is extra rewarding to work where I live because I get to help my neighbors.
Q: What is one of your favorite quotes or lines in a song and why does it resonate with you?
“God is in control.” It is from a Twila Paris song that I remember listening to as a child. I honestly couldn’t even tell you the whole song, but those 4 words have stuck with me throughout my whole life. I have peace knowing that no matter what I go through, God is there and will help me.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Always be kind. You never know what someone is going through. A little bit of kindness goes a long way.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite places or events in our community?
My children are young, so we love to go to the library, the park, parades, and the events downtown. My creative side loves to go to Restore because I enjoy refinishing furniture and giving something like a well-loved table, new life.
Q: What advice would you give to people living in Westminster or looking to move to Westminster?
Shop small. There are so many small businesses in Westminster and many of the owners are working in their business every single day. You will receive incredible customer service and the best of what their business has to offer.
Q: What 3 words come to mind when you think of Westminster?
Home, Community, Friends
Q: What are some of your favorite hobbies or pastimes?
I love art, doing anything crafty, and refinishing furniture. My family and I like to go shark tooth hunting and hang out at the beach.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
The weekend. I look forward to spending 2 whole uninterrupted days with my kids after working all week.
Q: What is one of your proudest accomplishments?
My family. No matter what happens in my life, I will always treasure my children and the time we spend together.
Q: What is one thing on your bucket list?
Traveling! No place specific, but with my husband and kids.
Q: What would you buy/do if you won the lottery?
I would take my family on a very long vacation.
Q: What is something even your family and friends may not know about you?
I love to binge watch shows.
Q: What has been a challenge you have had to overcome? (life, school, work, family, health, etc)
Work and home life balance. The business consumes a lot of my time, but hands down, my kids are most important.
Q: Who has been a hero in your life?
I can not name one specific person, but I am proud to say that I have a lot of strong women in my life including my family, friends and business acquaintances that continuously support me.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where in Westminster would you meet for this lunch?
I would go out to lunch at Mediterraneo with my friends. We would sit outside, eat, drink, and just enjoy spending time together.
Q: How can our readers and I know if someone we come in contact with is a good connection for you or a good person for you to meet? Please include your website link if you have one!
I love to meet people looking to paint their homes or refinish furniture. There are so many creative people in our community that I enjoy meeting at the paint store. We are located in the 140 Village Shopping Center (544 Jermor Lane) on the corner of 140 & 97 where you will also find Martins, Libratore’s & Shoppers. Follow Westminster Paint on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest or our website www.westminsterpaint.com where you can find inspiration, color tips and more!
