Today we’d like to introduce you to Paul Piwowarczyk.
Paul, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Natural Stone is a family business that was created by my father George and mother Yola back in the 60’s.
My father came to this country with the talent as a stone engraver and found work at a Chicago monument company. He eventually saved money to bring my mother to the US so they could be married. My mother was a registered nurse but soon after left the medical industry to open a business with my father. As his reputation circulated as a talented engraver and restorer of marble and granite the business grew.
As the popularity and the available of natural stone grew the business branched from commercial construction to residential. In the early 90’s George bought a failing stone company in Lake Bluff IL and moved his Chicago operation to the new north location. As children it was typical that my sister and I would work during the summers with our parents in the business. Eventually we both went to college in the Chicago area. My sister moved on to work in the medical industry and I continued – eventually taking over the business.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
In any small business there will always be good and bad days. However the toughest I would have to say was the housing market drop in 2008. Many companies were going bankrupt, laying off employees. It was a struggle but with a collaborated effort we made it through without letting anyone go.
Natural Stone – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Natural stone provides fabrication and installation of natural and manufactured materials for both residential and commercial uses. Most requests these days are counter tops we still offer a large variety services and product. It can be as simple as a small granite plaque with engraving to a complete commercial building. What we most pride ourselves in is customer satisfaction. No job is signed off until the customer is completely satisfied. In addition we offer warranties to our customers to ensure they know we have their best interest in mind.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is being able to hold your head up high everyday. I know my customers are satisfied, my employees are happy. Maintain this and success will follow.
Contact Info:
- Address: 611 Rockland Road
Ste 208
Lake Bluff IL 60044 - Website: www.naturalstoneinc.com
- Phone: 847-735-1129
- Email: paul@naturalstoneinc.com
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