Q: Please tell us a bit about yourself.
I was born in Philadelphia grew up in the northeast until I got married to my high school sweetheart and moved to Bucks County. I graduated Temple University school of pharmacy and after working for a chain drug store, was fortunate enough to have been given the opportunity to become a small business owner and purchase a mom and pop independent pharmacy in Holland.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My husband Todd and I have been married for 26 years and we have two children, Nicole and Brady. They are both in college and are amazing young adults. I can’t wait to see what wonderful things they will do!
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I started my career working for one of the big retail pharmacy chain drug stores. I took a break from my career for about ten years to focus on raising my children. The best decision I ever made. When it was time to resume my career, I went back to the big chain store until the opportunity to become a small business owner arose. I now own Village Shires Pharmacy in Holland for almost ten years. Being in an independent pharmacy has allowed me to really get to know my customers and has allowed me to tailor my services to meet their needs. I have been blessed with amazing employees throughout the years, I couldn’t do it without them, and they have become my second family. I love my job and during these crazy times, I am grateful to be able to provide such important healthcare to our community.
Q: Please tell us a bit about your business.
Village Shires Pharmacy is a family-owned independent pharmacy and gift shop that has served our community for over 35 years. We are the kind of place that treats every person who walks in the door as an individual, not a number. We accept all insurances and offer reasonable prices to those who are not insured. We are happy to be a part of the COVID vaccination effort and offer a variety of over-the-counter items, medical supplies, gifts, greeting cards and chocolates.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
I love supporting local restaurants including Aldo’s pizzeria in Village Shires and Manny’s Deli in Holland.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived and worked in our community for 26 years.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
That’s a tricky one. I meet so many unique people with all different backgrounds. I get to know my customers, their families, their pets. I laugh and cry with them. I really couldn’t choose one individual as being most interesting. I do have a soft spot for some of the elderly ladies who come visit from a local nursing home facility. They are so funny. They say things how it is; they know what they want, and they remind me every day not to take anything for granted. I learn from their experiences and appreciate their struggles.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
It’s been quite a while since I have been on any kind of vacation or trip. I would love to take an Alaskan cruise to see the northern lights in person.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
I love anything in TV that makes me laugh. Curb your Enthusiasm was a great series. I am also a sucker for romantic movies that make me cry, the Notebook gets me every time.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Don’t sweat the small stuff. I am a firm believer in the phrase “Everything Happens for A Reason”. We may not know that reason right away, it may not be an easy journey…but eventually it all works out.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Taking my family to tour an African Safari
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
My daughter got me hooked on country music a few years ago. So, she set me up with a great variety on a Spotify playlist and it includes Luke Combs, Old Dominion and Florida Georgia Line.
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 locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I watch a lot of reality Tv. And would love to go to lunch at Rocco’s with Andy Cohen from Bravo. I think he would have some great stories to tell.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I absolutely love Bucks County. Having great state parks and so many historical landmarks so close, it’s beautiful and often have to remind myself not to take it for granted.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I can’t imagine being anywhere other than where I am right now. I hope the small businesses are still around and I can pass the torch to the next generation when they time comes.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
I haven’t traveled as much as I would have liked but seeing the sunset over the water in Marco Island, Florida a few years ago with my family, was a beautiful sight I will not forget.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
I love the Fall; I love the changing of the leaves and spending time with my family on Thanksgiving.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Being snowed in, with all my family home, good food, and a good movie.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
100% my mom. She never fails to tell me how proud she is of me. She is my number one fan and motivates me every day. She always puts other people’s needs before her own and that inspiration has made me a better pharmacist, wife, friend and mother.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Cotton candy and peppermint.
Q: What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family. Love. Safety
Q: Where can people find you and your business?
