I’ve often been asked why I’m so good at closing deals, but I’ve never shared my secret until now. My canned answer is “practice, understanding my product and a firm handshake,” but the truth is, I get my potential clients good and lit on the water. We live in the land of flip flops, umbrella drinks, blue water and parrots. We live in the land where every day is waking up in a Jimmy Buffet song, so let me ask you this: Why would you want to screw it all up [...]

After a very successful 2011 on Main Street in Lakewood Ranch, nine additional new businesses will be added to the popular shopping and dining center over first few months of 2012. Soma, a national franchise owned by Chico’s, will open in March. Soma sells lingerie and intimates for women and will open right next door to Chico’s. Premier Sotheby’s International Realty will replace Prudential Palms beginning March 1, and J-Pan Sushi will replace Saijo Sushi. The American Shore Trading Company will soon open in the former Little Bookworms’ space. “The addition [...]