News & Events
Valley CDC
March 20, 2007
Reprinted from the Valley Community Development Corporation web site www.valleycdc.com
Laurel Mountain Basket Company
When Laurel Mountain Basket Company was conceived in 1998 by Marie Lisewski, it was little more than a hobby. In 2001, having just been laid off from her position as Executive Assistant to an entrepreneur, Lisewski saw an opportunity to be part of the revival going on in Easthampton. She took a chance, opened a retail studio in Eastworks, and developed Laurel Mountain Basket Company into one of the premiere gift basket services in New England.
Transitioning to a full-time, full service gift basket business was certainly a challenge. As a sole proprietor, Lisewski was responsible for every aspect of running her new business. Some roles she was comfortable in, others not. Valley CDC helped close the gap in her education.
Lisewski refers to Valley CDC as her "Board of Directors."
Marie writes:
"The highly skilled people of Valley CDC were there to help me every step of the way. They are fantastic. They helped me to develop a business plan, sharpen my marketing skills, and when I needed financing, they advised me about my options and referred me to WMEF. I still run new ideas past the staff and enjoy brainstorming with them."
