A popular saying indicates that behind every successful man is a strong woman. Yet, in today's day and age, more and more women are making their mark in the workforce, on the home front, and in history books - without having to stand behind someone else's success. This article is dedicated to the influential women of Gardiner that somehow, do it all with ease, and then some.
Ridgeline Realty
Jaynie Aristeo is a force to be reckoned with. A woman who wears many hats, she's been highly involved in the town of Gardiner since she moved here in 1997. Originally trekking from Pennsylvania, Jaynie discovered her love for this area after her first skydive at Skydive the Ranch in 1992; weekly skydives and camping trips spurred the big move just five years later. And although the relocation was planned, Jaynie recalls moving here as a huge risk, explaining that in Pennsylvania "I was in customer service for manufacturing and the problem was, up here, they don't make stuff - they grow stuff." It became a time to completely re-invent herself and fortunately, she was approached by a local broker who offered her a job in the real estate field. After earning her real estate license and soon after, becoming a mother, Jaynie began Ridgeline Realty and discovered the value of working from home. She hit the ground running and has been heading her firm single-handedly since. For nearly 20 years, Jaynie explains, "I've been a force of one, and taken care of everything myself. I like it that way because I can give my clients the most personalized service; it's a labor of love." And she truly is a force. In addition to owning a successful real-estate firm, Jaynie has been involved in the Gardiner Day Committee for over 10 years, heading countless fundraising events and projects, and a part of Parks and Recreation for nine. She's successfully taken on Gardiner by storm and we can't help but look forward to the weather to come.
Allstate Insurance Agent: Malinda Treglia
After a short interview with Malinda Treglia, a Jill of many trades, I'm beginning to think the phrase "How does she do it?" was modeled after her lifestyle. Malinda recently celebrated her one-year anniversary with her Allstate Insurance Agency on Main Street Gardiner, a feat she's made look easy. However, her path leading to the agency has been anything but: paved with hard work, dedication and perseverance. Malinda explained that when she took over the agency, the offer from her boss was a surprise, but ultimately, she explains that "I knew what I wanted from the universe, and I harnessed it." She had been with the agency in sales for less than a year and she made the transition in record time; what was usually a three-month process, was consolidated into 30 days. She goes on to further explain that "When I started this firm, I had that 'aha' moment; it was my thing." An independent mother of two growing children, Malinda not only assists the staff at her Allstate Agency, she trains exercise enthusiasts three days a week as a certified Crossfit Instructor, sells organic skincare products locally, and immerses herself as a support to the local community. We're happy to have this go-getter, insurance mavin in our town and can rest assured knowing that one thing's for sure; with Malinda Treglia around, Gardiner's in good hands.
Valley Home Dining
Amy Tung has done her fair share of exploration before coming back to her hometown roots in upstate New York. Traveling a span of several cities along the east coast, Amy would first discover her passion for cuisine in New York. While working in a number of different fields, Amy found that in her 13-year span spent in New York City, she grew "fond of being able to dine out and enjoy the 'New York' lifestyle." Her experience of the city culture would eventually spur her decision to enter into Culinary School; a venture that at first, simply took over her evenings. Amy's decision to pursue her hobby quickly became a propellant that would change the course of her career. Once Tung cut ties with her city trade, she moved back to the area and studied under Agnes Devereux, a renowned chef heading The Village Tea Room. But, Amy found that after becoming a mom, restaurant hours became unrealistic and she sought out a direction that would work seamlessly with motherhood. The seeds for Valley Home Dining were sown shortly after and Amy Tung would open her boutique catering service designed for any occasion. Amy explains that while she enjoyed the fast-paced restaurant industry, she prefers "...being a personal chef and petit-caterer; I get to see instant gratification and see the guests immediate reaction to what I've prepared. For me that’s the icing on the cake." In addition to running her own business, Amy is a member of Hudson Valley Women in Business and committee member of Wisdom of Women, two groups fostering resources and support for women in the area. As Amy continues to grow in the community and in her career, we look forward to what she'll bring to the table next.
Gardiner is incredibly fortunate to have a vast array of strong women to set an example for our young girls and boys. Although, you're never too old to be inspired and we hope these incredible women have given you a little inspiration of your own today. To learn more about the fantastic businesses of Gardiner, visit our business listings here.
Article and Pictures by:
Lucia Civile
LACE Photo Media
