March 21, 2013, Needham Hometown Weekly, Page 9

BUSINESSINWW oommeenn

CCaarroollee BB.. RRaakkoo,, LL..II..CC..SS..WW..

508-520-332587 Fruit Street, Norfolk, MA

CClloosseett EExxcchhaannggee

781-449-2500 • 781-449-7344 • 781-444-0367906, 925 & 931 Great Plain Ave. Needham MAwww.closetexchange.com

GGeett iinn SShhaappee FFoorr WWoommeenn

Needham: 781-444-48101201 Highland AvenueMedfield: 508-242-5189258 Main Street www.getinshapeforwomen.com

LLeeaarrnn && FFlloouurriisshh

508-517-020054 Hartford Street, Suite 203, Westwood MAwww.learnandflourish.com

PPaauulleettttee’’ss BBaalllleett SSttuuddiioo

Newton 190 Oak Street • 617-527-9565 Medfield 93 West Street • 508-359-5192 www.paulettesballetstudio.com

NNeeww LLiiffee UUpphhoollsstteerryy

508-543-2280 • 1-800-339-228034 Central Street, RTE. 140, Foxboro, MAwww.newlifeupholstery.com

PPoollee FFiittnneessss PPlluuss

508-966-9700191 Mechanic Street, Bellingham MAwww.polefitnessplus.com

PPrreettttyy iiss PPiinnkk

508-528-54329 Summer Street, Franklin MAwww.prettyispink.com

RRoosseemmaarriiee MMoorreellllii AArrtt

508-668-4933399 North Street, Walpole MAwww.rosemariemorelli.com

SSppeeeecchh--LLaanngguuaaggee && hheeaarriinnggAAssssoocciiaatteess ooff GGrreeaatteerr BBoossttoonn,, PPCC

Medfield 5 N. Meadows Road 508-359-4532Plainville 30 Man-Mar Drive 508-695-6848www.speechlanguageandhearingassociates.com

TThhee BBuullffiinncchh GGrroouupp

Amy Lampert • 781-292-3251160 Gould Street, Suite 310, Needham, MA www.bulfinchgroup.com

TTwwiisstt BBaakkeerryy

508-376-116330 Milliston Road, Millis MAwww.twist-bakery.com

Carole B. RakoL.I.C.S.W.EFFECTIVECounseling &Psychotherapy

WW oommeenn BUSINESSIN

Page 10 Needham Hometown Weekly, March 21, 2013

F rom as far back as I can remember I was happiest whendancing. My professional career began at age 14, when Iperformed in the Merry Widow at the Boston Opera

House. From there my grandmother and I moved to New YorkCity where I’d been offered a job as a soloist at Billy Rose’sDiamond Horseshoe, Latin Quarter, and Copacabana. Beforelong I was hired as a Ballerina at the Radio City Music Hall. Thejoy of these experiences will linger in my heart forever.

Now in my 54th season, I have a superb faculty who grew upwith me and continue to impart my training and philosophy. Iam blessed and privileged to be a part of so many young lives,and I hope to continue for as many years as God gives me.

With love and deep appreciation to our wonderful community,

Paulette

Paulette’s Ballet StudioA Family Dance Center

Ballet, Pre-Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Pointe, Hip-Hop,

and Modern

54 Years of Dance, Joy and Love

Newton 190 Oak Street • 617-527-9565 Medfield 93 West Street • 508-359-5192 www.paulettesballetstudio.com

BUSINESSINWW oommeenn

BY JAMES MAIMONISHometown Weekly Staff

According to the latest “State ofWomen-Owned Businesses Report,”the number of businesses owned bywomen in Massachusetts as of 2007was 178,114 and is currently esti-mated to be around 194,000, ac-counting for just about 30 percent ofall U.S. businesses. Sales have alsogrown immensely, from$25,487,227 in 2007 to around$29,366,000 in 2012.

Many of these entrepreneurs ownand operate their businesses right in

your hometown, some of whichmight be of interest to you. From fit-ness studios to financial firms to bak-eries, these women have taken per-sonal interests and hobbies andtransformed them into successful lo-cal businesses.

A heavily researched study con-ducted by Global EntrepreneurshipMonitor (GEM) showed that from1979-2010, self-employment forwomen has increased by 45 percent.

These numbers suggest that womenare no longer waiting to have theirvoices heard, but instead are taking

matters into their own hands andseeing their businesses flourish.

In order to survive and compete inthe heavily, male-oriented businessworld, these women must show per-sistency and determination in orderto keep their businesses afloatthrough thick and thin, essentialcharacteristics of any business owner.

Come support women in bothyour town and neighboring townsby checking out these local busi-nesses and help Massachusetts be-come an even more appealing placefor businesswomen to excel.

Women thriving in business

March 21, 2013, Needham Hometown Weekly, Page 11

258 Main StreetMedfield, MA

508-242-5189

1201 Highland AvenueNeedham, MA

781-444-4810

BeforeBefore

"Losing weight is one of the hardestthings I've ever done - but I DID do it!If you are serious about losing weight,and ready to make a commitment tochange your life for the better, Iknow Get In Shape will work foryou. It's going to be hard attimes, but it's also going tobe fun, and so rewardingwhen you begin to loseweight and build those

muscles! I couldn't have lostthe weight without Get InShape, and I will forever begrateful to them for helping mebecome the person I am today."

"I have met the most fabulouswomen there as well and have made some really great friends. The people who go to GISFW in

Medfield are awesome!! We help oneanother, motivate one another andpick each other up when we fall. Ihave absolutely loved being a part

of this program. This is not a "flash in the pan" diet or gimmick - this is a lifestylechange, which I have seenembodied by the women atour facility. I LOVE going towork out... And who usually

says that??"

Jennie Mayer

Lost 44.2 Pounds and 10.6% Body FatColleen Towne, Age 40

Lost 20 Pounds and 5.8% Body Fat

AfterAfter

Results startwhen you do!

www.getinshapeforwomen.com

"Who Wants To Lose 12-30 lbs in 12 weeks or less?"“From day one as a client, I knew that Get In Shape For Women was special. All of the women aroundme were transforming their bodies and their health. I loved the intensity of the workouts, the closecoaching from my trainers and the ongoing education on nutrition. Almost immediately after becominga client, I knew I wanted to own my own studio and help other women take their health back. Its beenincredibly rewarding to change the lives and the heath of all of our amazing clients in Medfield,Needham, Sharon, Belmont and Waltham . Any woman who needs help getting in shape should callus immediately for a complimentary health assessment and free week of personal training!"

•Liz McGill - 2012 Multi Unit Franchisee of the Year

•Medfield Studio: Top 10 Studio Award 2012

•Needham Studio: Top 10 Studio Award in both 2011 and 2012

TransformYOUR BODY. YOUR LIFE .

Call Today for a comprehensive Health Assessment & Free Week of Personal Training valued at $200!

10 Billings StSharon, MA

781-784-7008

Page 12 Needham Hometown Weekly, March 21, 2013

Associates of Greater Boston, PC

Specialis

ts in

Spe

ech, L

angu

age, L

earn

ing & A

udiology

Speech-Language and Hearing Associates ofGreater Boston, is celebrating its thirteenth yearunder the direction of Dr. Maura Marks, who is

among a small number of professionals certified in bothSpeech-Language Pathology and Audiology. Dr. Markshas earned doctoral degrees in Communication Disordersand Clinical Audiology. She is also trained in Wilson andOrton-Gillingham reading interventions. Although she beganher career intending to work exclusively in research, she hasinstead found herself engaged in clinical practice in hospital,private practice, public school and university settings. Sheteaches at Northeastern University and is currently pilotinga reading program at two high schools in Boston.

With offices in Medfield and Plainville, Marks says, “Wehave grown both in size and scope, which has been quitegratifying.” “Our focus is on all aspects of communication.The auditory modality is essential for speech and language

development, reading, speech production, and stayingengaged and alert. Oral language and motor deficits canaffect behavior, learning, social interaction, and self-esteem.”

“I also believe we have a responsibility to educate thecommunity. For example, we’ve put the word out thattinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be treated. We’ve alsoinformed parents to keep an eye on youngsters with earlyspeech and language delays. They may appear to catch up topeers around the time of kindergarten screenings, largelybecause rate of growth slows in normally developingchildren, until about age six.”

Speech-Language & Hearing Associates offers speech andlanguage evaluations, individualized therapies, hearingtests, hearing aids, tinnitus evaluations and treatment,literacy evaluations and decoding therapy, and auditoryprocessing evaluations and management, at rates wellbelow hospital costs.

SSppeeeecchh--LLaanngguuaaggee HHeeaarriinngg

DR. MAURA G. MARKSPh.D., Au.D., CCC-A/SLP, FAAA

PLAINVILLE30 Man-Mar Drive508-695-6848

MEDFIELD5 N. Meadows Road

508-359-4532

For most of my life I’ve been affected by food allergies and intolerances. When I eliminated gluten from my diet manyyears ago, I was unsatisfied with the majority of the gluten free food offered on the market, since much of it was in theform of box mixes or frozen meals. I’ve always been one to cook and bake from scratch and when I added in all ofmy family’s allergens, the selection was even more disappointing. There had to be a better way. Merging my businessbackground with my love of everything culinary, my family and I rolled up our sleeves, tackled the opportunity headon and created Twist Bakery Café.

My food philosophy: bring in raw ingredients and create on-site a wide selection of fresh sweet and savory selectionsrotated with the seasons. The food has to look and taste great, be made with natural ingredients (no hydrogenated fator corn syrup), contain no artificial colors or preservatives. Maintain an allergen friendly environment: 100% glutenand peanut-free, eliminate soy, generally bake and cook without dairy or nuts and offer a selection of egg free, yeastfree and sugar free products.

Running a restaurant has been a dream of mine. With my family’s support, a tremendous number of hours invested, agreat staff and loyal customers behind us, we’ve been very fortunate to bring this dream to a reality.

30 Milliston Road • Millis, MA 02054 • 508.376.1163 • www.twist-bakery.com

Meals To GoCatering Café • •Kathryn Ernst and her staff at Twist Bakery Cafe

March 21, 2013, Needham Hometown Weekly, Page 13

Carole Rako is a clinical social worker with

many years of experience and extensive

training. As a marriage counselor, she is

certified as a “Divorce Buster” and in PREP

(Prevention & Relationship Enhancement

Program.) Carole has advanced training in

EMDR (for healing trauma and utilizing inner

resources), in Solution Focused Therapy, as

well as Inner Child Therapy. Ms. Rako is

compassionate and easy to talk to.

I believe that effective therapy should focus on: emotions, cognitive understanding,behavior change, and be geared towards results. I use humor whenever appropriate.

Carole B. Rako, L.I.C.S.W.87 Fruit StreetNorfolk, MA 02056 508-520-3325

Hours by appointment Monday -Thursday. Her golden retriever, Harry, is also availableupon request to offer comfort in therapy sessions.

EFFECTIVE Counseling & Psychotherapy

In her practice she offers:

• Self-esteem coaching

• Stress management

• Relationship enhancement

• Anxiety/depression

• Job & career concerns

• Adolescents

• Spiritual issues

“ ”

508-520-332587 Fruit StreetNorfolk, MA 02056

BUSINESSINoommeenn

Years ago growing up in New York, Lori Rosenberg, Owner ofretail clothing store Pretty is Pink, shopped at stores just like herstore now. Nothing felt better than being able to run into a storewhere a professional stylist knew your size and listened to yourneeds. This is what inspired Lori to bring her own shopping experience to our local area.

Pretty is Pink has been in business for seven years. Loriattributes the success of Pretty is Pink to the large amount ofinventory, the many name brands that her store carries that can befound in Nordstrom’s, Saks, Urban Outfitters etc. and the trainedand professional sales staff that work in the store.

Whether you are looking for basics, an outfit for a night out oran entire wardrobe . . . stop by to check us out!

Name brands include Ella Moss, Michael Stars, Hanky Panky,Red Engine Denim, Miss Me, Ecru, Silver, Free People, Sanctuary,B.B.Dakota, Big Star, Last Tango and much much more!!!!

www.prettyispink.com • 508-528-5432 9 Summer Street • Franklin, MaHours: Mon 12-5pm • Tue-Sat 10-5:30pm • Thurs open until 7pm

34 CENTRAL STREET, RTE.140, FOXBORO, MA

SHEILA MASTERSON

As of the first day of spring, New Life Upholstery will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary. Along with her husband Steven, Sheila has been partnering with herclients in the beautification of their homes since 1988 in downtown Foxboro. Thisfirm has a reputation for producing the highest quality workmanship in

reupholstering, slipcovers and custom windows treatments with tried and true methodsand the finest materials. Thus, they have continued to grow their business year after year.

While undertaking data analysis of their advertising and customer base during last year.They found that first of all, repeat customers and their referrals showed the highest percentage of sales, then came their internet presence and newspaper advertising. That'sa statistic to be proud of.

Sheila is a people person and with her love of life, she truly feels fortunate to be able topractice and share her skills and talents everyday. Artistically blessed with a natural senseof the aesthetics of color and balance, she utilizes her design experience on a day to daybasis.

She will advise and offer alternatives regarding all of your furniture and window treatment needs, customizing your rooms to the exact specifications of your dreams. Inother words, New Life Upholstery can transform your humble home into your very own castle.

Facebook Twitter Yelp!

508-543-2280 • 1-800-339-2280 • www.newlifeupholstery.com

WW

Page 14 Needham Hometown Weekly, March 21, 2013

Sherri Fisher

BUSINESSINWW oommeenn

The Closet Exchange is a group of 4 women’s consignment stores, all on Great Plain Avenue in Needham, Massachusetts.

The owners are Mother and Daughter, Brenda and Maggie Stark. The stores have been voted Best in the Region for the last 8 years.

We carry every label fromGap and Forever 21 to

Chico’s, J. Crew and AnnTaylor to Chanel, Armani,Tory Burch, Prada, LouisVuitton and Kate Spade.

Our stores are divided bybrand to simplify your

shopping and our staff cananswer all of your fashionquestions. We know ourmerchandise and happy

to help if you wish.

Visit our website, ClosetExchange.com, to see our videos and read our daily blog.4 stores, open 7 days a week, carrying sizes 0 to 24! We add over 300 new pieces to the floors every day.

We are a different kind of consignment store.We love what we do—let us share this with you!

781-449-2500781-449-7344781-444-0367

M, T, W, F, Sat: 10-6pm • Thurs: 10-8pm • Sun: 12-5pm

In 1998, after years of working as an independent wealth manager and financial educator, I integrated mycompany, WomensWorth, with The Bulfinch Group. I arrived at this decision because I was so impressed with theknowledge and philosophy of The Bulfinch Group specialists when my clients and I worked with them on wealthmanagement, estate and long term care planning, and company and executive benefits. I never thought it waspossible to find an organization whose management not only talked the talk of life/work balance, but also practicedit in their lives and for the benefit of the lives of its associates.

The Bulfinch Group is a fabulous place to build a career, especially if you are a woman in the wealthmanagement field. The leaders of the company have created an environment of collaboration, respect, productivityand competence. The Bulfinch Group, like WomensWorth, believes that each client situation is unique andrecognizes that there is no one-size-fits-all strategy. Using a comprehensive and integrated life and financialplanning methodology of discovery, analysis, observation and recommendation, we create a living plan that letsour clients define, afford and live the lives they dream about, while protecting their loved ones. We believe thatgiving back to the communities we serve is part of our ongoing responsibility. Those are the shared values thatinfluence both WomensWorth and The Bulfinch Group as we aspire to make a lasting, positive impact on the livesof our clients and associates.

781-292-3251 • 160 Gould Street • Suite 310 • Needham, MA 02494 • www.bulfinchgroup.com

Amy Lampert of The Bulfinch Group