S ince age 16, Tammie L. Williams dreamed of opening a preschool. Fast-forward to life as a low-income single mom of three, Tammie was able to partially fulfill her adolescent dreams through a half-day educational preschool from her home. After 13 years, she knew her unique and quality curriculum was essential to fill a void in her local community and she regained focus. She persevered through numerous obstacles and secured a loan through the SBA to build her dream school. In 2004, Tammie opened Apple Creek Preschool in Frisco, with an expansion in 2007. Today she has 32 employees and serves 325 students. Apple Creek is the only National Association of Education for Young Children (NAEYC) accredited school in Frisco. NAEYC accreditation recognizes excellence in early learning environments. Growth in her program is a pillar and this year Apple Creak launched an incredible Nature Explore Certified Outdoor Classroom connecting learning and nature. Learning extends past her students and Tammie has completed MS degrees in Child Development and Business Administration. She served as a guest speaker at UNT, TWU, UTD, and Collin College and serves on the Child Development Advisory Board at Collin College. As community outreach, Tammie teaches parenting classes and has a partnership with UNT, TWU, and Collin College as a lab school for Early Childhood Education students which allows students to observe staff and programs at Apple Creek as part of their coursework. The combined low ratios and educated teachers with fantastic curricula ensure an excellent educational foundation. This is evident by the thousands of young children that have successfully launched into public and private schools after finishing their journey at Apple Creek. APPLE CREEK PRIVATE PRESCHOOL 7797 Stonebrook Parkway Frisco, Texas 75034 972.334.0005 applecreekpreschool.com TAMMIE WILLIAMS APPLE CREEK PRESCHOOL Advertisement 2023 WOMEN IN BUSINESS 18 FRISCOSTYLE.COM FRISCOSTYLE.COM
Deandra Grant, an A-V rated attorney, is the Managing Partner of Deandra Grant Law. A graduate of Trinity University and Southern Methodist University’s School of Law, Grant went on to earn a Graduate Certificate in Forensic Toxicology and a Master’s Degree in Pharmaceutical Science - Concentration in Forensic Science from the University of Florida. In 2019, Grant joined the faculty at Axion Analytical Labs as an Assistant Chromatography Instructor for the American Chemical Society. Grant earned the distinction of being named an ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist. She is also the co-author of The Texas DWI Manual, now in its 9th edition. Grant is a member of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Dallas Bar Association, Collin County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association (President 2022), American Chemical Society and American Academy of Forensic Sciences. She is also a Charter Member and President-Emeritus of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association. Grant is the Vice President of Living the Doxie Dream Rescue & Sanctuary in Royse City, Texas. She devotes much of her time to fundraising efforts for their rescue dogs. She has been married to Eric Clendenin for over 20 years and is the proud mom of Keegan and Rowan. DEANDRA GRANT LAW Allen Office (Primary) 1333 W. McDermott, Suite 180 Allen, Texas 75013 3300 Oak Lawn, Suite 700 Dallas, Texas 75219 1317 E. McKinney, Suite 101 Denton, Texas 76209 4500 Airport Freeway, Suite 102 Fort Worth, Texas 76117 605 Austin Avenue, Suite 5 Waco, Texas 76701 609 W. 9th Street, Suite 2B Austin, Texas 78701 972.943.8500 DeandraGrantLaw.com DEANDRA GRANT DEANDRA GRANT LAW Advertisement 2023 WOMEN IN BUSINESS OCTOBER 2023 19
Advertisement 2023 WOMEN IN BUSINESS Dr. Anisah Shahidzadeh (‘Dr.S.’ as her patients love to call her) founded EyeQ Vision in 2011 after years of practicing optometry in more typical big-box retail settings. “I set out to open a private practice that I would want to bring my loved ones to. Our patients are like family to us. We take the time to listen to their concerns, answer their questions, and offer personalized solutions that address their unique needs. We believe in fostering lasting relationships built on trust and exceptional care.” EyeQ Vision in Frisco has become synonymous with cutting-edge vision care, offering a unique focus on Optilight and aesthetic dry eye solutions, alongside an extensive collection of unique designer frames and lenses that cater to discerning tastes. Unique to EyeQ Vision’s eyecare offerings is the Optilight Dry Eye treatment. Optilight naturally address the chronic dryness and redness associated with ocular rosacea and dry eye disease with no down time and no discomfort. Going beyond momentary relief, Optilight addresses the root causes, providing lasting respite to patients who’ve often navigated a maze of artificial tears and medicines that may not solve the chronic signs of dry eye disease. Dr. Shahidzadeh adds, “We believe that healthy and beautiful eyes go hand in hand. Our aesthetic dry eye treatments not only provide the much-needed relief but also enhance the natural beauty of your eyes. We aim to boost your confidence and well-being.” Dr. Shahidzadeh and her associate, Dr. Morgan Strub, are dedicated to ensure that every patient walks out with optimal vision and a rejuvenated spirit. From comprehensive eye examinations to state of the art technology and premium optical products, EyeQ Vision’s dedication to excellence shines through in every aspect of their practice. EYEQ VISION 8380 Warren Parkway, Suite 605 Frisco, Texas 75034 972.668.3131 [email protected] eyeqfrisco.com DR. ANISAH SHAHIDZADEH EYEQ VISION 20 FRISCOSTYLE.COM
Meet the heart of Frisco-based High Performance Roofing - Solar - Windows, CEO Heidi Black. Heidi and husband of 23 years, Brad, founded HP in 2016. This certified Woman-Owned company “began with a vision to establish an innovative growthmindset culture,” and Heidi agrees, “we are doing it!” Heidi’s background in Real Estate, combined with her passion for developing people, and building solid relationships makes for a winwin for her staff and clients alike. The construction solutions Heidi’s team provide are known to improve not only the look of a property, but also the comfort, value, safety and efficiency of a home or commercial property - with their Value-Match Guarantee! Heidi maintains multiple Women-Owned Business certifications, including WOSB, WBE, DBE, and HUB. In a male dominated industry, continuing to remain at the forefront of products and technology has been a focus for Heidi and her team. This has helped in the growth process to provide empowering solutions to homeowners that many contractors don’t offer! From the foundation, creating a culture of self-leadership has been a priority for High Performance to continue to grow and thrive. Weekly meetings, book studies and personal growth courses are the norm for Heidi’s team to stay sharp. ROOFING: We install all kinds of roofing systems…Heidi suggests those that want to replace their roof LESS OFTEN…consider a metal roof! Beautiful slate, shake and tile looks are highly durable. Insurance discounts and tax credits with complimentary upgrades are offered from High Performance too! WINDOW REPLACEMENT: Heidi loves that THIS ONE home improvement transforms the inside and outside at the same time! SOLAR: “What you don’t know about solar may be costing you money! In just 10 minutes my team can determine if your home qualifies for solar!” Know someone looking for a rewarding sales career in a recession-proof industry with a company that values its team members? Visit: JoinHP.com. Certified Woman-Owned & Operated. Discover why we are High Performance! HIGH PERFORMANCE RESTORATION 9061 3rd Street Frisco, Texas 75033 469.415.1135 HPRTexas.com HEIDI BLACK CEO, HIGH PERFORMANCE RESTORATION Advertisement 2023 WOMEN IN BUSINESS OCTOBER 2023 21
S weet Tooth Dental Loft, a full-service dental practice that debunks the typical dreaded, sterile feeling of going to the dentist, is dedicated to giving you a dental experience that fits your lifestyle. The office is full of color, the team is upbeat, and from the moment you walk in our doors, you will feel comfortable and invited. We approach dental hygiene practically--- we don’t like to lecture patients on how they’ve done an inadequate job in their oral health. Instead, we recognize that our patients have made the first step in the right direction by coming in, and that’s usually the hardest decision to make. We will help you with the rest! The office is run by Dr. Cooper, our personable, compassionate dentist. Dr. Cooper obtained her D.D.S. at The University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, provided dental care to residents in underserved areas, and was an active participant in dental research for which she won several awards and presented at national conferences. She was even in a nationally syndicated GUM brand commercial. Dr. Cooper chose dentistry because “I see the impact a nice smile has on a person’s self-confidence,” she says. Our patients feel like they are visiting their friends when they come to our office. Children and adults give Sweet Tooth excellent reviews, so consider taking the first step in your dental health journey by giving us a call. SWEET TOOTH DENTAL LOFT 8838 Coleman Boulevard Frisco, Texas 75034 469.248.5638 SweetToothDentalLoft.com TAMMIE WILLIAMS APPLE CREEK PRESCHOOL CAMELIA COOPER, DDS SWEET TOOTH DENTAL LOFT Advertisement 2023 WOMEN IN BUSINESS 22 FRISCOSTYLE.COM
S angita Datta, an esteemed financial specialist and Director at IANT India Association of North Texas, has achieved a well-deserved position among Forbes’ Top 100 financial professionals. With her exceptional knowledge and experience, she leads DATTA Insurance Services, providing unparalleled expertise in the field. Sangita’s remarkable accomplishments are evident through her memberships in prestigious finance councils and her inclusion in the exclusive MDRT Million Dollar Round Table club. Beyond her professional achievements, Sangita is a true community servant. She wholeheartedly serves as an ambassador for the Citizens Police Academy and the Frisco Chambers of Commerce, actively contributing to the betterment of her community. Moreover, her involvement with Frisco Leadership Class 25 exemplifies her dedication to fostering community growth and development. Despite her numerous commitments, Sangita remains a devoted wife to a commercial pilot and a loving mother to two talented young men. Her journey serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication, relentless diligence, and genuine desire to inspire positive change. SANGITA DATTA DATTA INSURANCE SERVICES DATTA INSURANCE SERVICES 4319 Chantilly Lane Frisco, Texas 75036 888.883.2882 sangitadatta.com Dallas Closet Design, led by Shannon Swarbrick, transforms living spaces with a motto: “Life can be overwhelming, your closet shouldn’t be.” They emphasize simplicity and functionality, offering customized solutions for closets, pantries, and garages to suit various budgets and lifestyles. Their designers take time to understand individual needs, ensuring personalized service. This commitment extends to community involvement, with active engagement in organizations like Hope Park Frisco, the North Texas Community Giving Foundation, and Farm House Fresh Animal Rescue, reflecting Swarbrick’s dedication to community welfare. Through volunteerism and inventive ideas, Dallas Closet Design enriches the community. Their belief in the power of an organized space echoes in their mission to help families thrive. SHANNON SWARBRICK DALLAS CLOSET DESIGN DALLAS CLOSET DESIGN 972.640.7043 DallasClosetDesign.com Advertisement 2023 WOMEN IN BUSINESS OCTOBER 2023 23
CHRISTENE “CHRIS” KRUPA DOWNS KRUPA DOWNS LAW, PLLC Attorney Christene “Chris” Krupa Downs focuses her practice on wills, trusts, advance directives, estate planning, guardianships, and probate. She has over 12 years of legal experience handling estate planning, probate & guardianship legal matters for clients in Allen, Frisco, McKinney, Plano and throughout Collin, Dallas and Denton counties. I understand that it isn’t easy to talk about death or planning for death. I also understand that it is difficult to think about what needs to happen after the death of a loved one. I believe in my mission of providing my clients with caring representation that makes them feel comfortable having these conversations with me and that at the end of my representation, they feel like I helped them. To accomplish my mission, I will actively listen to my clients to not only hear what is spoken but what is unspoken; I will treat my clients with respect, kindness, compassion and empathy; and I will learn about them and their lives; I will speak in plain English and do my best to minimize the use “legalese;” and I will provide legal services in a timely and efficient manner. KRUPA DOWNS LAW, PLLC 400 Chisholm Place, Suite 216 Plano, Texas 75075 214.556.3862 krupadownslaw.com TAMMY PRAHL FLOOR COVERINGS INTERNATIONAL Tammy Prahl is a professional with a diverse background in law, business administration, and extensive experience in corporate IT. She holds a law degree from Thailand’s top university and pursued an MBA at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB). With over 15 years in corporate IT, Tammy embarked on a significant career change in 2018, becoming a Floor Coverings International Franchise Owner, serving Frisco, McKinney, Prosper, Little Elm, and Fairview. At Floor Coverings International, our commitment revolves around redefining the flooring experience, emphasizing convenience and quality. We revolutionize how customers shop by bringing the showroom directly to their homes, ensuring a personalized and seamless shopping journey. Our extensive flooring material selection includes carpet, engineered hardwood, solid hardwood, laminate, tile, luxury vinyl, bamboo, and rubber flooring. For more information and to explore our offerings, please visit our website at frisco.floorcoveringsinternational.com, or you can reach us at 469.400.4113 or via email at [email protected]. Experience flooring solutions tailored to your needs with us. FLOOR COVERINGS INTERNATIONAL 7540 State Hwy 121 Suite 200 McKinney, Texas 75070 469.400.4113 frisco.floorcoveringsinternational.com Advertisement 2023 WOMEN IN BUSINESS 24 FRISCOSTYLE.COM
Leigh Gressett, a long-time resident of the North Dallas area, became a Realtor® following a successful 22-year career as a teacher that included nine years with Frisco ISD. She uses her extensive knowledge of real estate and love of people to help her clients with buying, selling and building their homes. Leigh is known for her patience with clients as they make one of the biggest decisions and investments of their lives. She understands the processes for both repeat clients as well as those embarking on their first real estate adventure. She strives to make all transactions as seamless as possible. Her expert negotiating skills and careful attention to contract details help Leigh provide an additional edge for her clients who are in the market. When she is not working with clients, Leigh enjoys spending time with her husband and adult sons attending church and volunteering with such charitable organizations as the North Dallas Food Bank, Frisco Family Services and ChristianWorks for Children. LEIGH GRESSETT GRESSETT REALTY GROUP / COLDWELL BANKER GRESSETT REALTY GROUP COLDWELL BANKER 3211 Internet Blvd, Suite 150 Frisco, Texas 75034 214.632.0957 [email protected] GressettRealtyGroup.com When Beckie Thomas returned to Texas from Las Vegas, she never thought she would run two businesses and a foundation. Her career began as professional dancer for Disney and Norwegian cruise lines, the Dallas Mavericks and a dance director for SMU. She made her way to gymnastics after marrying three-time world champion and Olympian, Kurt Thomas. Their passion for the sport and athletes was the catalyst to open Kurt Thomas Gymnastics 26 years ago. After Kurt’s passing in 2020, Beckie has continued his legacy that offers a place for athletes to flourish as gymnasts and young adults. Beckie sets an example each day by serving the gym’s 900-plus families and by pushing the staff and gymnasts to reach their full potential. Beckie also opened The Flair Academy for home-school athletes and the Kurt Thomas Global Education Project with Uganda, Africa. Her current project of love is Gold Medal Loss coming out the beginning of 2024. BECKIE THOMAS KURT THOMAS GYMNASTICS KURT THOMAS GYMNASTICS 10825 John W Elliott, Suite 400 Frisco, Texas 75033 214.872.4646 kurtthomas.com Advertisement 2023 WOMEN IN BUSINESS OCTOBER 2023 25
KATHRYN PRUITT PRUITT LAW GROUP Pruitt Law Group’s mission is to help clients achieve peace of mind and protect what is most important in the event of death or divorce. The firm works with clients to create solutions that minimize the emotional and financial toll of the loss of a loved one or a marriage. Founder Kathryn Pruitt has nearly 30 years of experience handling high stakes litigation to protect her clients’ most precious assets. She has been Board Certified in Family Law since 2009, has been selected to the Texas Super Lawyers List for Family Law from 2011 – 2023, and included in Best Lawyers in America from 2016 – 2023. Trained in mediation and collaborative law, Kathryn educates clients on private, less-contentious alternatives to the court process such as collaborative divorce. She also advises clients in estate planning matters and prepares wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. If you are concerned about how divorce or death would affect your loved ones and your finances, call Kathryn’s team to schedule a confidential consultation today. PRUITT LAW GROUP 2601 Network Blvd, Suite 430 Frisco, Texas 75034 469.888.8829 CollinCountyFamilyLaw.com ANNIE HAWKINS OSKY BLUE Osky Blue is a full-service marketing agency clients can count on to make purposeful decisions with their time and budget through data-driven strategy, thorough implementation, and comprehensive performance reporting. By only working with one client in each industry in the DFW market, Osky Blue is able to stay competitively aligned with the client’s goals and business growth. Broad industry experience also allows the agency to learn about new channels and areas of potential without becoming myopic. The Osky Blue team is committed to understanding each client’s marketing goals, unique business model, and brand voice in order to reach the client’s ideal audience. Managing Partner Annie Hawkins joined Osky Blue in 2016 and leads brand strategy for all client work. Annie’s previous experience conducting due diligence for portfolio companies in multi-billion dollar private equity organizations combined with her passion for all things creative brings a unique skillset to the Osky Blue team. Her expertise, attention to detail, and ability to integrate herself into a client’s team adds value clients can trust to treat their business as if it is her own. Annie is inspired by her volunteer work and driven to positively impacting the community by supporting multiple non-profit organizations as a board member, volunteer, and donor. OSKY BLUE 3001 Dallas Pkwy, Suite 120 Frisco, Texas 75034 866.675.9411 oskyblue.com Advertisement 2023 WOMEN IN BUSINESS 26 FRISCOSTYLE.COM
We thrive on cases that seem insurmountable. That is where we do our best work. Parenting has changed. Our firm champions the rights of all parents and is dedicated to finding fair custody and support solutions for both fathers and mothers. Our lawyers help our clients make sense of their unique situations and strive to create strategic solutions for their problems, not just for today, but for the reality they will experience ten years from now. The lawyers at The Ramage Law Group provide clients with the education needed to make informed and confident decisions for their future security and their children’s wellbeing. Through our lawyers’ collective experience, we help shine a light on that which is unforeseeable, taking proactive steps to help, whether in litigation or setting our clients up for success after court is over. We believe that the quality of our relationships has a massive impact on the quality of our lives. By helping to protect our clients and their futures, we do our part in making a difference in their lives, improving the lives of their children, and, eventually, the world around us. SHARON RAMAGE THE RAMAGE LAW GROUP THE RAMAGE LAW GROUP 8951 Collin McKinney Pkwy, Suite 1401 McKinney, Texas 75070 469.812.7902 ramagefamilylawfirm.com texasspecialeducationattorney.com Dr. Meredith Tittle, PT, founder and CEO of S2S Functional Performance, has a passion for helping others not only heal from injuries but live healthy, energetic, and injury free for a lifetime. S2S Functional Performance® was established in 2004 under the name, Sole to Soul – a Professional Pilates Studio. What began as a one woman show offering high quality private and small group Pilates by a licensed physical therapist has evolved into a growing business! For nearly 19 years in Denton County, and now in Collin County, S2S offers a multitude of professional services including: licensed physical and occupational therapy, mental performance consulting, and fitness programs. After years of enhancing their systems and environment, the team has designed a cuttingedge 7,000-square-foot performance facility in Frisco. Meredith’s vision for S2S Functional Performance is that it will continue to lead the industry as the community’s top choice for health and wellness. “People deserve individualized attention and personalized plans, developed just for them. At S2S, it is our honor to serve you and your families for years to come!” DR. MEREDITH TITTLE PT, DPT, OCS S2S FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE S2S FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE 8195 Custer Road, Suite 100 Frisco, Texas 75035 940.241.1215 S2SPerform.com Advertisement 2023 WOMEN IN BUSINESS OCTOBER 2023 27
S helby Mason Sokolash, a proud Collin County native, has been a dedicated Realtor for 13 years. As a Broker Associate/Realtor® at family-owned Mason Real Estate, Shelby is passionate about creating long-lasting client relationships. She understands the importance of family and strives to provide the best possible experience with a simple, down-to-earth approach. With her expert knowledge of the fast-paced DFW real estate market, Shelby is prepared to help with your homebuying and selling needs. She has built a solid foundation of clients in the community through her professionalism, attention to detail and commitment to always putting the needs of her clients first. She has been awarded North Dallas Real Producers Magazine’s Top 500 Producers Award and named among the Best Real Estate Agents by D Magazine. Shelby and Charlie, her husband of 15 years, along with their three children have called Frisco home since 2008. A passionate advocate and supporter of children with learning differences and their parents, Shelby proudly serves as the Parent Council President for the last three years at Dallas’ Fairhill School, which provides superior educational opportunities for such students. SHELBY MASON SOKOLASH REALTOR/BROKER, MASON REAL ESTATE MASON REAL ESTATE 972.834.2548 [email protected] masonrealestate.net S heena’s Dance Academy is celebrating 28 years in Frisco and has trained thousands of dancers. The longest existing dance studio in Frisco, Sheena’s Dance Academy specializes in dance instruction and performances within all disciplines of dance and dance levels. Whether a student is wanting to simply enjoy dance as a hobby, reach a dance-oriented goal, be a part of a national award-winning competitive dance company, or work toward a professional career in dance, Sheena’s has a place for every student, male or female. Focusing on all students regardless of age, ability, or dance level makes Sheena’s Dance Academy the ideal place for anyone wanting to learn to dance. Offering dance classes year-round, summer dance camps and intensives, Sheena’s Dance Academy will continue educating and providing opportunities to all dance students. Over the years, many students at Sheena’s Dance Academy have achieved great success in the world of dance. SHEENA LARAMORE SHEENA’S DANCE ACADEMY SHEENA’S DANCE ACADEMY 7975 Stonebrook Parkway Frisco, Texas 75034 972.712.1100 sheenasdanceacademy.com Advertisement 2023 WOMEN IN BUSINESS 28 FRISCOSTYLE.COM
Frisco Family Vision was founded in 2014 by Dr. Dana Biederman, a practicing Optometrist since 2005. She attended University of Florida and Southern College of Optometry. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two children in Frisco and cheering for the Gators. Frisco Family Vision has the latest equipment and a large selection of glasses and sunglasses. They perform comprehensive eye and contact lens exams, myopia management, and treatment of eye infections and diseases. DR. DANA BIEDERMAN FRISCO FAMILY VISION FRISCO FAMILY VISION 10150 Legacy Drive, Suite 300 Frisco, Texas 75033 469.444.8888 FriscoFamilyVision.com Théda, who is known as The Reconstructionist™, opened The Page Law Firm in 2002 to cater to individuals in need of a fresh start and hope of a stable financial future. The firm handles bankruptcy and family law matters. Théda serves on the Boards of Directors of the Collin County Women Lawyers Association and the Plano Bar Association. In 2021 she received the Collin County Women Lawyers Association Outstanding Women Lawyer award. She strives to perfect her knitting skills. THÉDA PAGE THE PAGE LAW FIRM THE PAGE LAW FIRM 1125 Legacy Drive, Suite 320 Frisco, Texas 75034 214.618.2101 PageLawFirm.com Grace Estate Law helps clients create meaningful legacies with confidence and Grace! The law firm’s founding attorney, Adriane Grace, began her legal career 13 years ago in Washington, D.C. as an appellate attorney for the Social Security Administration. When her entrepreneurship journey began in 2014, she expanded upon her “insider’s knowledge” of Social Security law, adding estate planning, guardianship, and probate. Today, she assists Texas families with public benefits, Wills and Trusts, and caregiving roles. ADRIANE GRACE GRACE ESTATE LAW GRACE ESTATE LAW 8668 John Hickman Pkwy., Ste 202 Frisco, Texas 75034 972.379.8167 [email protected] gracelawoffice.com Advertisement 2023 WOMEN IN BUSINESS OCTOBER 2023 29