Q: What makes your store unique?

A: I have always been a creative person and love to express myself through my work. Over the past 40 years, I have been designing all sorts of merchandise like jewelry, gifts, souvenirs, displays and packaging for our family-owned business. The best part is it's always been and still is ALL proudly made in the U.S.A.

Q: What is your retail background?

A: It started as early as elementary school when I won a design challenge and was responsible for themes and decorating each of the school corridor bulletin boards, the principal's office and outside entrances for a full school year. During junior high and high school I took many multimedia art classes and worked in charcoal, pastel chalks and oils. After high school I attended RISD (Rhode Island School of Design) and completed courses in photography and interior design.

Q: What is the most popular product you sell?

A: Pretty much anything personalized with a name drop is popular, but for more than 20 years now I would have to say our name badge program comes in No. 1.

Q: What is your favorite part about working in this industry?

A: Our customers - they are the best, the most loyal and the friendliest. All our hard work and efforts to please our customers are worth it in the end when you know you're so appreciated. Backing up our success is our Sunburst team. Most of our employees have been with us more than 25 years, and there are a few that really run the place and make us the company we are today.

Q: What advice do you have for other retailers?

A: For the retailers selling any of our product I would say shout out that it's made in the U.S.A. We have a beautiful country and they should be proud to find suppliers that make things right here in America! Perhaps even have a dedicated area in their shops that feature "American made products". As far as artist trying to work in this industry, my best advice is to target what market you want to reach, and then study and learn all you can about it.