Business Buzz
By Rich Baehrle
“Brigantine is on fire and I’m not just referring to the brick oven at the new LaScala Restaurant.
“New businesses are cropping up and filling in the gaps that were needed to make Brigantine the place to visit and spend time at the Shore,” said Maria Sacco Handle, president of the Brigantine Chamber of Commerce. “We also have several services and startups on the island such as a beach chair (business), garbage removal services, and golf cart rentals for the weekly visitors. See BrigantineChamber.com for a full list of businesses.”
A dream is becoming reality for Christina and Jimmy Perry, a husband-and-wife team who are opening a new, innovative fitness center. They were in the mortgage business and the corporate world. But for many reasons they chose to create a business that allows them to spend more time with their children and create a positive community environment.
They opened Ola Kai Functional Fitness. The 5,000-square-foot studio offers a variety of classes including CrossFit, circuit training, Pilates, Piloxing, yoga, master classes and kids agility.
Their goal is to have something for everybody and to encourage fitness and community for everyone who walks through the door. See Ola Kai of Facebook or olakaifunctionalfitness.com.
Jennifer Poe and Bryan Myers are the new owners of the beautiful Rittenhouse Home Design Center, located at 4228 Harbor Beach Blvd., Brigantine.
“Our team is devoted to providing world class service, flawless craftsmanship and uncompromising quality in every project, renovation, or custom build. Our extensive quality control measures and meticulous attention to detail sets us apart from other design build firms,” said Jennifer and Bryan.
Their Design-Build-Dwell approach was created to give the client the experience and finish outcome they need to make their dream a reality. They want the customer to feel connected and an important part of their process.
Utilizing their 3-D platforms, they are able to give the customer visual renderings at each stage from conception to completion. They take pride in setting the standard for quality home renovations and builds. Their clients’ relationships and referrals have made them a leader in the industry.
Their vendor list includes more than 300 brands of furniture, appliances, tile, plumbing, hardwood, hard surfaces, countertops, carpet, cabinetry, wall coverings, lighting, and sought-after home decor and accessories.
The building located at 3218 Brigantine Blvd. has been a landmark for years – known for its sea of beach chairs and summer gear surrounding the building. Real estate investors Michael Snyder and Jeff Tunis recognized the potential value of the mixed use commercial/residential site and purchased it in the spring of this year. Within months, the weathered, dated building has been brought back to life with the improvements they have made.
The once-cluttered beach store on the corner has been transformed into a bright, inviting shop that sells clothing, decor and seashore necessities.
Angela Reynolds, owner of the new store, Coastal Soul, has a clear vision for her store.
“As a long-time Realtor on the island, and past president of the Chamber of Commerce, I’ve had years of communicating with our visitors and homeowners regarding exactly what they’d like to see in town, and my goal is to deliver that,” said Reynolds.
She went on to say that she has heard time and time again that her store creates a feeling of peace – like the way you feel as you drive over the bridge into town. She hopes to capture that same feeling when guests stroll into her store.
You can learn more on their Facebook page.
Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-266-6680
or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com
