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In the business world, we know that women have much

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Women Who Mean Business

2015

Why do you do what you do? We are passionate about helping our clients achieve the Life of Abundance they deserve. We strive to provide clarity to the choices our clients face and help them make important wealth decisions. In addition to the sophisticated strategies created by our team, we believe in building confi dence through education and collaboration with other professionals to create a truly unique experience for our clients.

How do you defi ne success? A Life of Abundance – The defi nition of Abundance varies for each individual person – family time, good health and wellness, education, or travel. Our mission is to empower our clients to live THEIR life of abundance.

What is one thing that very few people know about you? (Marlis) In conjunction with being the Chief Planning Strategist, I am a Certifi ed Divorce Financial Analyst,

and believe divorcing women should be an expert in their own situation. Second Saturday, is a workshop that I started though the West Des Moines Community Education which provides women specialized education from local experts in legal, mental health and fi nancial planning.

(Linda) I founded the fi rm in 1993, with the vision of building long-term relationships; to truly understand our clients, listen to what they want to achieve and help them fi nd the right solutions for their individual needs. We work closely with our clients, applying sophisticated strategies to build an action plan toward Abundance – all through our unique process, known as the Financial Security Method.

For those who may question their own fi nancial situation and security, we provide an opportunity to voice questions and discuss their fi nancial strategy with our complimentary Second Opinion Service.

PARTNER & CHIEF PLANNING STRATEGIST

MANAGING PARTNER & FOUNDER

Gilbert & Cook

“Live Your Life of Abundance…”

Marlis Gilbert, MS, CFP®, ADPA®, CDFA™

Linda Lundstrom Cook, CFP®

2670 106th Street, Suite 220 | Des Moines | (515) 270-6444 | www.gilbertcook.comSecurities and Advisory Services o ered through VSR Financial Services, Inc. A Registered Investment Advisor and Member FINRA/SIPC.

Gilbert & Cook, Inc. is not owned or controlled by VSR Financial Services, Inc.

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Bella SalonKimberly Heemstra Hairdresser and owner

“Nothing is impossible. The word itself says ‘I’m Possible”

—audrey hepburn

When/where did you get your start in business? all of us started at different times and for different reasons, but one thing each of us has in common is that we all have a passion for the beauty industry.

Who is on your personal board of directors? (who do you turn to for advice and mentorship) advice and mentorship comes mostly from our families, however, it’s wonderful to spend your days with other women who won’t judge you and are honest enough to give you a kick in the pants when you deserve one.

What is your favorite splurge? shoes and handbags. always.

How do you rejuvenate your mind and soul? working out, a massage, a road trip, or a good glass of wine with a warm bubble bath.

How do you define success? Helping people look and feel good is very rewarding but you must continually grow as a person and be cautious of feeling content as contentment can lead to laziness.

Share your favorite quote, one that you feel is words to live by… if dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough. working hard for something you don’t care about is called stress; working hard for something you love is called passion.

Shops at roosevelt849 42nd St | des Moines

(515) 279-1002

Valley West1551 Valley West dr #250 | des Moines

(515) 223-5335

Johnston8665 north park Ct | Johnston

(515) 254.9074

BellaSalon & Spa

Top left to right: Megan Passage (styling Lead), Tamara roberts (Color/Texture Lead), erica starman (Color Lead), erin Moss (spa Lead), Felicia doanetto (Cutting Lead), Kasey Zylstra (Cutting Lead) Bottom left to right: amanda McCue (Johnston Manager), Jadi evans (roosevelt Manager), Jen newman (Valley west Manager), Kimberly Heemstra (owner), Lauren Bales (General Manager), Josie schrad (advanced Technical Lead)

WOMEN WHO MEAN BUSINESS | SpEcIAl AdvErtISINg SEctION

When/where did you get your start in business? I was in the office furniture industry and a client suggested I consider real estate. I took the plunge and the rest is history - this is my 25th year in real estate.

Who is on your personal board of directors? I follow my heart and that usually leads me to making the right decisions.

What is one thing that very few people know about you? I am the middle child in a family of 10! One time my brother and I were playing in a

sandbox behind a gas station while my parents were getting gas on a family vacation. When we came back out front, they were gone. They came back after they realized we weren’t in the car, an hour later!

How do you define success? Success for me is placing people in the home of their dreams. Their happiness is my success.

(515) 249-0009 | www.dm4sale.com | facebook.com/4saledesmoines

Kim O’Connor realTOr

Coldwell Banker

“Do unto others as you would like them to do unto you.”

Special advertiSing Section | WoMen WHo Mean BUSineSS

4100 Westown Parkway | West Des Moines | (515) 225-7559 | www.sahars.com

Sahar's Hania Curry General ManaGer

Sahar Alshash Owner


“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”

—MahatMa GanDhi

When/where did you get your start in business? we started this business in September of 1999 and are in the same location today.

Who is on your personal board of directors (who do you turn to for advice and mentorship)? My husband and daughter, as well as many of our employees.

What is your favorite splurge? Traveling to visit family

How do you rejuvenate your mind and soul? If I am not utilizing my salon and day spa to rejuvenate, I love to travel around and visit other

spas not only to relax but to get ideas to bring back to Des Moines.

What is one thing that very few people know about you? I have a very artistic and creative side. not only do I love to paint and draw, but I love decorating. when I was younger I also used to create and sew my own gowns.

How do you define success? Success to me is someone who has been able to make their goals and dreams come true when it comes to their career, no matter how long it takes them or how many times they failed before.

When/where did you get your start in business? I have been practicing cosmetic medicine and dermatology for almost 23 years. Patients have many choices in this competitive market and I am proud to have 3 generations of patients. These long term relationships are so valuable to me and my business.

How do you rejuvenate your mind and soul? Running a business and caring for patients can at times be draining. Most of my patients do not know that I rejuvenate my mind and soul around

campfires, splitting wood, fishing or riding my snowmobile, all in my Carharts.

How do you define success? A male dominated healthcare industry presented its challenges early on and I used to have to remind myself to “put on my big girl panties.” It has been a challenge to balance my aggressive business side with my femininity but I would not change anything I’ve accomplished. As women business owners we have come a long way!

1045 76th Street, Suite 1050 | West Des Moines | (515) 223-0119 | www.skiniowa.com

Susan Schooler, PA-C OwneR

Skin Iowa, PC


Susan Schooler, PA-C | Seth Robb, PA-C | Kyle Ver Steeg II, M.D., Medical Director

“One Woman Can Change Anything. Many Women Can Change Everything.”

—ChRIStIne KARuMbA

M&M Commercial CleaningLynda Marquardt Owner

“I’m successful because failure was not an option. My choice, my responsibility, my future.”

—Lynda Marquardt

When/where did you get your start in business? I launched into the business world in 1995 when I went to work for Data Documents (Corporate express DPM) where I worked for 10 years. early in my career as sales executive I acquired a global client. From there I opened doors to many wonderful and exciting opportunities. My experiences have taught me leadership. I am blessed to have had such wonderful mentors so early in my professional life.

How would you define Success? As a founder of a company, you start by yourself. If you are fortunate, and work hard your business grows and you bring on additional people with different experiences and expertise. SUCCeSS is the best result of that work. Through doing your best, understanding, applying, and improving the set of strengths and values provided to you.

What is one thing few people know about you? I have a passion for speed and will never turn down a race or a joyride in anything with a high performance engine.


8008 Hickory drive | urbandale | (515) 724-2125 | www.mmcommercialcleaning.com

new construction cLeaning epoxy FLooring coMMerciaL cLeaning

Why did you decide to start your business? Personally, it’s in my DNA. I inherited an entrepreneurial spirit from my parents, and then professionally, as an employment law attorney, I saw firsthand what is possible when you have the right people in the right positions (and the havoc that can be created when you don’t). This backdrop led me to start Pro Search, Inc., an executive search firm that for 17+ years has found extraordinary talent for a wide variety of companies, law firms, and not-for-profit organizations here and around the country.

Who is on your personal board of directors? My inner circle of advisors – Carole Baumgarten, Bill Knapp, Roxanne Conlin, Diana Deibler, and the late Bill Reichardt have all the hallmarks of great coaches and leaders – they love to win, demand excellence, and make those around them, including me, better.

How do you define success? As a collegiate athlete, I used to define success by ‘winning’. If you won, you were successful. If you didn’t, you weren’t. I define it differently now. It’s about ‘personal best’ and helping others take their own performance, or their company’s performance to a whole new level.

Pro Search, Inc.Talent Makes the Difference

Sourcing, Recruiting, Qualifying, and Placing Great Talent for over 17 years

3240 Ashworth Road | Des Moines | (515) 556-8432 [email protected]

Connie Newlin, J.D. PReSIDeNT

Pro Search, Inc.

“My sports background taught me well – adding the right player can elevate the performance of the entire team.”

—Connie newlin, J.D.


6209 SE 14th Street | Des Moines | (515) 287-4220 | www.trixiessalon.com

TrixiesTricia Rivas Owner

“Live the life you have imagined.”

When/where did you get your start in business? I started in this industry in 1997 at Salon Vesta and Day Spa in Ankney, Iowa.

Who is on your personal board of directors? My husband, Jeremy, my parents, my staff at Trixies Salon, Vilma Subel, Cheri Greiner, Tiffany Tokarz, Jen Sauter, Kari rose, Jamie Jo Ickowitz and Sadie Trytten

What is your favorite splurge? A nice vacation and shopping at a couple of my favorite local boutiques in Des Moines such as Aimee and Hinge.

How do you rejuvenate your mind and soul? with prayer and exercise

What is one thing that very few people know about you? I don't think anything (lol!). I'm an open book.

How do you define success? At the end of the day it's not about what you have or even what you have accomplished... It's about who you've made better. It's about what you've given back. –Denzel Washington


When/where did you get your start in business? After working for myself for a decade (In Seattle), I joined my family business in Des Moines over 8 years ago.

Who is on your personal board of directors? (who do you turn to for advice and mentorship) My father (who founded our business), the general manager of my business, my sister (who is a leadership trainer and life coach by profession), and a handful of friends who run local businesses as well.

What is your favorite splurge? Fancy hotels and fine dining when I travel. Also, shoes and clothes have always been a pleasure in my life.

How do you rejuvenate your mind and soul? Yoga classes about 5 times a week, walking around Gray’s lake, and trying to do as little as possible on the weekends-Staying at home (in a loft I created and love), and just hanging out with my beloved dog and husband is my favorite place to be.

What is one thing that very few people know about you? I was a massage therapist in my former profession.

How do you define success? Success is feeling content. Having clarity and knowing that you are exactly where you’re supposed to be.

2405 Ingersoll Avenue | Des Moines | (515) 244-2338 | 9749 University Avenue | Clive | (515) 223-5000 www.voguevision.com

Rachel Sivi vIce preSIDent

Vogue Vision

“Keep Calm and Carry On.”—RAChel SIvI


5525 Mills Civic Parkway, #105 | West Des Moines | 2505 SW White Birch Drive, #C | Ankeny | www.shopmintla.com

MintL.A. BoutiqueRebekah Risbeck OWNER

“Blessed are those who can give without remembering, and take without forgetting.”

-ELIZABETH BIBESCO

MintL.A. is a trendy and a� ordable boutique catering to young female professionals with locations in West Glen and Prairie Trail. Created for women on a budget who still want classic, timeless pieces, as well as a� ordable of-the-moment styles.

Where/when did you get your start in Business? I knew I wanted to be a business owner when I worked at my fi rst Startup; I loved seeing the result of hard work. I also wanted to get the corporate experience, so I worked at big corporations such as the Gap, to large privately owned retailers; traveling to NY Fashion Week on buying/trend forecasting trips, and to China to visit the factories. I loved both small startup companies to large corporations.

How do you defi ne Success? Overcoming obstacles to reach your dream. In any aspect in life, Success to me is putting in 100%, not allowing yourself to fail, and fi nally: feeling content with your journey.

How do you rejuvenate your mind & soul? Running. There is something about lacing up my shoes and going on a long run. I feel like I can conquer the world after a nice long run.

Who is the most Infl uential Person? I'm inspired by other Entrepreneurs; there is always a synergy in the air. But working with Diane Von Furstenberg was amazing. Her kind and motivating words really hit home; that you can follow your dreams and be a role model to others.

WOMEN WHO MEAN BUSINESS | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

How did you get your start in business? I had the opportunity to join Saxton right out of college and I was the 5th employee. I was then offered the opportunity to become a minority owner and eventually purchased the company. I believe I transitioned from employee to owner because I always thought like an owner. For me, my job was never a job. It was my passion.

Who is on your personal board of directors? I belong to a business owners group. They inspire me to reach farther, hold me accountable to my goals, and push me to keep learning.

I also have a business coach that helps me stay focused on what’s important.

How do you rejuvenate your mind and soul? I love to read.

How do you define success? Success is about choosing to be happy while staying curious and committed to what matters most to you over your lifetime.

108 3rd Street, Suite 100 | Des Moines | (515) 244-6116 | www.saxtoninc.com

Kim Augspurger PreSIdenT & owner

Saxton, Inc.


“Change your thoughts and you can change your world.”

—norMan vincent peale

4416 Merle Hay Road | Des Moines | (515) 278-4170 | www.rjonescollision.com | [email protected]

R Jones Collision 1Christy Jones Owner

“We go above and beyond to give our customers more than what they expect.”

When/where did you get your start in business? I was born in the business. I grew up in the family business, playing here on weekends. I moved back home to run the front office in 2001, when my mother became ill and couldn’t work anymore. I am now sole owner of r Jones after my uncle and father retired in March.

Who is on your personal board of directors? My father is my first go-to person. He has been doing collision repair for over 40 years, so his knowledge base is great.

What is your favorite splurge? I have a weakness for large purses. Please don’t look in my closet.

How do you rejuvenate your mind and soul? I spend time with friends. we may have a nice dinner, or go to a movie. The point is to get away and not talk business. wine usually helps the process.

WOMEN WHO MEAN BUSINESS | SpEcIAl AdvErtISINg SEctION SpEcIAl AdvErtISINg SEctION | WOMEN WHO MEAN BUSINESS

1551 Valley West Drive, Suite 286 | West Des Moines (515) 223-6204 | www.serenitycouture.com

COSMETOLOGY - ESTHIOLOGY - MASSAGE

6905 Mills Civic Parkway, Ste 120 | West Des Moines (515) 224-5244 | www.avedaiowa.com

Success: Is reaching your personal and professional dreams! Right now, we are expanding our Salons, Schools and starting a new division of AVEDA Experience (retail) Centers. It’s exciting to watch our team grow careers based on individual passion and determination.

Motivation: Motivating others is a true joy! I re-energize by watching our students excitement to learn. It’s so fun seeing my career becoming full circle….from Cosmetology student, to educating this generation of service providers!

Career Goal(s): Be realistic. Dream big, realizing it takes vision and a path to achieve goals. I didn’t plan to own Salons, Institutes, and Experience Centers. By mapping out how I could make the biggest impact, I was led to opening new compa-nies; creating jobs in and around Des Moines. This has given me the ability to help others define their path to reaching their goals and dreams.

People Often Underestimate the power of… Kindness. By recognizing our human connection and the ability to impact those we touch, we grow relationships both personally and professionally.

Jana VanPolen ownER

Aveda Institute Des Moines &

Serenity Couture Salons

“Watch your words: they become actions. Watch your actions: they become habits. Watch your habits: they become character. Watch your character: it becomes your destiny.”

—Jana VanPolen


8510 New York Avenue | Urbandale | (515) 868-0240 | www.measuredintentions.com

Measured IntentionsMichele Farrell & Kathleen Riessen Owners

“We are constantly asked how we balance business ownership, client and employee needs, family, fitness and personal time. We both agree that the keys to success are a strong support system and a positive attitude.”

Marketing with Purpose established in 2008, Measured Intentions has been helping companies focus on driving bottom line results through strategic partnerships and marketing efforts. we work with marketing, sales and other key individuals to develop comprehensive strategies and to set actionable and achievable goals.

we don’t define ourselves as an “agency”. we believe in creating partnerships and acting as an

extension of our customer’s teams. Our success is driven by our customer’s success, which is why we hold ourselves accountable to each and every goal and strive to go above and beyond.

In addition to helping our customers grow their businesses, we continue to challenge ourselves to grow as a company and as individuals. This includes owning multiple businesses, attending numerous professional events and networking to grow our strategic partnerships.


When/where did you get your start in business? My earliest memories are in our family’s hotel business. We would talk about it at the dinner table, and I looked forward to the day I had something to offer so I could be a part of it. As soon as I was old enough I began working in the hospitality field: coffee shops, restaurants, and hotels. I knew that my career would and should be in hospitality.

How do you rejuvenate your mind and soul? I travel- both near and far. I find it refreshing and inspiring.

What is your favorite splurge? Without question, art and travel.

How do you define success? Independence and contentment.

What isn’t new at our hotel?! We completed an extensive, award winning renovation of our lobby, restaurant, lounge, and first floor banquet room in 2013. This May our sweeping restoration of the infamous Top of the Tower Ballroom will be complete and by summer of 2016 all 251 guest rooms will be remodeled.

1050 6th Avenue | Des Moines | (515) 283-0151 | holidayinndesmoines.com

Gretchen Conley Todahl MArkeTIng DIrecTor

R.J. Conley Hotel Group

“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”—OscAr WilDe
