Why Small Businesses Matter
Shop small, do big things for your community
Why Small Businesses Matter puts a spotlight on the local merchants who donate their time, talent, goods, and services for the betterment of our community. The shop local movement spreads virally as local businesses who are “tagged” have the opportunity to share their story!
You're IT Freedom Warrior
Three questions with Amy Polacko, founder of Freedom Warrior.
Why did you start your business?
My heart has led me to my work. I am divorced and know that the process can be overwhelming so I am the Divorce Coach I wish I had! I help women who are contemplating divorce, in the middle of one, or reinventing themselves afterward.
I have clients in our area from word of mouth and also from across the country - after they hear me on a podcast or read one of the articles I have written in national media outlets as a journalist. I also founded a support group called Strong Savvy Women. We meet monthly in Darien where we have educational speakers and in Ridgefield where we have a more intimate Divorce Support Circle meeting. Our goal is to provide education, support, and fun so no woman feels alone. Many members are years out of a divorce and give advice to those just starting the process. It is a wonderful community!
What is your best-selling product/service?
Definitely my one-on-one coaching package. Divorce is one of the most stressful life events and everyone needs someone who understands and can guide them through this complex process. I explain the different divorce options to clients, connect them with key resources, help them identify priorities, streamline the process to save them money, provide much-needed support, and help them create an amazing next chapter.
For some women that means launching a new career or business after being home raising children. I also do public relations consulting so I am able to help with branding, entrepreneurship, and business development.
A lot! I am a big believer in supporting small businesses and love our town. First of all, I am deeply indebted to Dee Dee Colabella for letting us use her RPAC Art Center and Academy space for our support group. Dee Dee was one of our event speakers last year when we had an inspirational "New Beginnings" party at her RPAC Gallery! Elizabella's Bake Shop made adorable cookies for that event. I often bring The Cake Box cupcakes to my Darien meetings and they are a hit.
Attorney Rosemarie Ferrante of Divorce Mediation Center of Fairfield County, LLC is on our Strong Savvy Women Advisory Board, recently presented to our group, and is a trusted mediator to whom I often refer clients. Another Ridgefielder recently spoke on our "Divorce Success Stories" panel - Consignment Envy owner Maura Dimm. I am also grateful to real estate agent Lonnie Shapiro who was an event sponsor and spoke on "Real Estate for Single Women."
Amy would like to nominate Ari Karp and Steel Fitness in Ridgefield to be featured next!
Visit Freedom Warrior online here, and make sure to check out their Facebook, and Instagram pages as well!
HamletHub thanks Fairfield County Bank for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!