Some people are just born to entertain others. The service industry isn’t for everyone, but, with the right personality, it can be a marvelous route for someone with people skills and a talent for small talk. And, when that person has lived practically his entire life in the greater Sarasota area, developing relationships and cultivating connections – – well, magic happens. Thus, the case for namesake Eddie Ward of Eddie Ward Limousines. If you are looking for a fun ride, and maybe great seats for a rocking concert, don’t look any further than the fun guy driving the sparkly pink limousine.
For Eddie Ward, you just need to do one thing in order to ride in one of his amazing limousines. It involves a three-letter word. Any guesses? It is have F-U-N. After a career that has stemmed decades of driving for raucous rockers like Motley Crew and reality stars like Donald Trump, pre-presidential days, Eddie has learned the ropes amongst some of the most demanding stars and corporate VIP’s. As a private chauffeur for the famous or as a limousine driver for corporate families looking for something fun to do while in town for business, Eddie Ward holds the golden ticket in fun limousine rides for all.
“It’s not about driving a car,” Eddie explains. “It is about people challenging me with their oddest or most difficult request and being able to meet that client’s needs.” With a “no limits” attitude, Eddie is just as happy taking families for a dolphin watching excursion as he is easily navigating the Miami cruise ports for a stress-free delivery of a party of five. With all the trips he has made, Eddie is quick to say, “Kids’ parties with the parents so happy to see their kids excited for the limo is really the best part of the job.” With five cars, (one of them pink, not just everyday pink, but sparkly pink), and seven drivers, all licensed and insured, Eddie and his team can make sure you arrive in style for every occasion. Whether it be a wedding, birthday, prom, or reunion celebration, with just about every event sandwiched in-between, Eddie Ward Limousines is your fun ride to everywhere.
As a new member of IBE since 2018, Eddie joined IBE with one motivation in mind, painful teeth issues. After careful research he concluded the most cost-effective way to get his pearly whites repaired was to join the International Barter Exchange. With IBE, he could invest necessary capital into his limo business and let bartering take care of that pesky dental work. Eddie has never looked back, but he sure is smiling at the prospect of new ventures and newfound friends within the extensive network of IBE merchants. “In the short time that I have been a member it has absolutely been a success for me. I accomplished what I needed to and now look forward to seeing what else it has to offer and who else I can do business with.” Eddie Ward is just another one of dozens of happy, money-saving business members in the thriving IBE organization.
Having the correct blinds and curtains adorning your windows is akin to remembering to add mascara, or, even better, fake lashes to make your eyes pop. You want something that reflects your distinct personality. Something too lacey undermines your spirited heart and boxy blinds are way too angular for your fun-loving nature. Yes, it is that added touch to your home that speaks to your own sense of style and lets the world know that your living space is complete. And, if you are searching for “American Made,” then look no more. Domenick’s Blinds & Décor has every window, door, and living area lovingly covered.
We have all been there. Home complete, windows washed, landscape set, and it is time to move in. Immediately the honeymoon stage of home ownership subsides in favor of real live thoughts on energy conservation and heat reduction. Enter energy-saving window treatments! Did you know that beautiful shades, blinds, and shutters could serve a dual purpose of saving you money on your energy bills month after month, year after year? That is a successful marriage between fashion and function, something any decorator can get behind. But, with so many choices, which type of window treatment will fit your budget and tastes in perfect union? Thankfully, the experts at Domenick’s Blinds & Décor are there to help with your window treatment needs.
When it comes to selecting the adornments for your windows, the offerings at Domenick’s far exceed what you see in the showroom. Behind every transaction lies a competent salesperson with the knowledge to guide you through decisions like fitting oddly shaped enclosures and meeting extreme black-out needs. With years of experience behind every recommendation, the professionals at Domenick’s Blinds & Décor have an idea for every budgetary consideration. With convenient in-home measurements and estimates you don’t have to worry about the “right” time to upgrade your window treatments. Because, we all know if we leave items like this to the “right” time, they will never get done. At Domenick’s, time, money and client satisfaction back every blind they sell so you can be assured of satisfaction the first time around. And, if the need for repairs or cleaning arises down the road, Domenick’s is your go-to destination for these services as well.
When it comes to IBE, Domenick’s owner, Jill Runyan, describes her experiences like this, “It is networking, marketing, and saving all in one.” Perhaps that explains her ten-plus years’ relationship with the well-organized barter organization. Jill goes on to say, “We use it for everything from gift certificates and recognition for employees, holiday parties at unique venues, and the day-to-day expenses like pest control and payroll.” The easy-going nature of the other merchants has made it simple for Jill to make new relationships with people, something she has appreciated since relocating to Florida. “Everyone is so friendly and helpful, and just all-around easy to do business with.” Jill and her team know that if there is a fixed monthly expense coming out of their budget, they can consult IBE for money-saving alternatives to pay for these and similar items. IBE is a sound decision for any business owner looking to trim the fat and put all the profits right back into the business.
Living in paradise is a tough job, isn’t it? I mean, we never get to use those snow shovels which seem to be such handy items. We rarely get to wear our fashionable “winter” boots, and the gloves literally never make it out of the drawers. And, those seat warmers in the automobiles? When will we ever be able to turn those things on? Yes, someone must take the hit and live where it is sunny and warm virtually every single day.
Speaking of the lucky percentage of the world’s population who have the privilege of residing in beautiful Florida, let’s talk about maximizing the time spent in the glorious outdoors. That sun – – it is intense. We have all experienced the pains that can come from spending too much time under the sun’s harmful rays. Yet, we go back for more because a backyard BBQ with friends, complete with a cornhole tournament, far outweighs any sunburn. But, if you could have your proverbial cake and eat it too, as in what if you could spend all day outside and still be able to be shielded from the sun’s heat? Absolute Aluminum has you covered, literally.
Absolute Aluminum is the premier leader in ratcheting up your outdoor living experience. With their extensive line of innovative products designed to turn outdoor areas into extra living spaces for the entire family, every square inch of your property can be used for your relaxation. From retractable screens to adjustable pergolas, you never have to worry about the weather being anything but perfect. When the rains come in, their state-of-the-art products allow for the flip of a switch to keep you dry, without the need to run inside for protective cover. And, if you are planning to enjoy iced tea with an old friend at high noon and want to relax poolside, no problem. A variety of beautiful products will provide continuous shade protection so you can enjoy the extreme Florida paradise that we call home.
From pool enclosures to lanais, firepits, pavers and travertines, the go-to source that scores of Suncoast residents flock to is Absolute Aluminum. The reviews are in and, quite frankly, they are stellar. Estate gates, outdoor kitchens, carports, covered awnings – – there is simply nothing the folks at Absolute Aluminum cannot do for you. Unlike many of their competitors, Absolute Awning thoroughly presents every possible idea to fulfill a client’s desires for their outdoor spaces. With style, budget, and product in mind, their design solutions are meeting and exceeding clients’ expectations on a daily basis. Their three tenets, “education, communication, and quality” make it possible for so many to enjoy a 24/7, 365-day approach to enjoying all that Florida has to offer.
When it comes to monthly fixed expenses, Absolute Aluminum loves to tap into the money-saving power of the International Barter Exchange. For items like shredding, bartering is a wonderful funding solution, which allows the folks at Absolute Aluminum to hang onto their capital for expansion and new product lines. IBE has become a wonderful solution for recognizing exemplary salespeople through Absolute Aluminum’s President’s Club. They use popular QR certificates to amazing restaurants as incentives for their already wonderful employees.
Driving a vehicle is one of the first freedoms we get to experience in our young lives. That thrill of independence hits you when the driving lessons, state test, ID issuance, and parental warnings are complete and it is just you, the car, and the road. You don’t realize it at the time, but that sense of excitement you feel as you start your first engine can be replicated again and again. As adults, our automobiles signify who we are in terms of style, size and affordability class. And vehicles are likely the most vital part of our existence and ability to prosper. Can you imagine getting to work, school, the hospital – – anywhere without your trusted vehicle? The only thing more important than the car or truck you drive is where it came from. Do you know for certain your new or used vehicle meets or exceeds all safety and maintenance standards? If you have purchased your automobile from Goldmark Auto Group, then you can breathe a sigh of happy-driver relief.
We all know that purchasing a vehicle can be a traumatic event at times; financing can seem impossible and selection in your price range can be scarce. At Goldmark Auto Group, a focus on the customer experience puts you in the driver’s seat before you even make your purchase. A knowledgeable and friendly staff, an extensive selection of pre-owned vehicles and financing experts stand ready to change the bad rap finance professionals have been given. Honesty, integrity, and client satisfaction is at the heart of every Goldmark Auto Group transaction. With down payments beginning as low as $499, there is virtually a car, truck, or van for everyone in the market for a new ride.
Word of mouth is a great way to find out which businesses are the best to work with. As you peruse the variety of reviews and testimonials from past Goldmark Auto Group clients, the comments range from “I’ve bought six cars from them over the years. They always got me what I wanted at a fair price,” to “Got the car I wanted, and they made it happen with my credit. Great dealership.” Customers are raving about their experiences with auto buying from Goldmark Auto Group. Whether you are in the market for a suburban, sedan, sports car, or minivan, let the friendly, capable team at Goldmark Auto Group lead you safely behind the wheel of a trusted vehicle, all at a fair price. Now, that is auto buying without headaches or worries.
When it comes to IBE, the folks at Goldmark Auto Group love the reciprocity of great services and excellent customer services found within the amazing network of IBE members. Many other like-minded members keen on keeping their capital in-house, while letting bartering take care of housekeeping and hospitality expenses make for a cohesive bartering group. The owners of Goldmark Auto Group appreciate the high level of professionalism and friendship found within IBE. They know it takes commitment and integrity to become one of the premiere bartering organizations around.
“Where perfection becomes reality,” what a goal. When it come to a new hairstyle, a great blowout, or amazing products for our locks we strive for the very best. We want our stylists to be expertly trained, “up” on all the latest trends and styles and supremely knowledgeable about coloring. Our spa technicians should possess that “it” quality that calls you to relax and take care of yourself. The salon and spa atmosphere both must be beautiful; after all, why spend the time and nervous anticipation beforehand to be in a setting that doesn’t beckon your best. And your stylist? Besides your parent, or maybe the president of the United States and possibly your doctor, who do you need to trust more than your favorite person at the hair salon? Really, ladies and gentlemen, I defy you to name someone who means more to your everyday appearance and self-image. At Elements Hair Studio & Spa, “where perfection becomes reality,” is a way of life. Their expert stylists are ready to be “your” people.
Since 2005, Elements Hair Studio & Spa has been a relaxing haven for hundreds of clients. They know when they walk in the door they will be met by a friendly, knowledgeable staff member ready to make dreams and transformations happen. Specializing in “all things hair,” you can rest assured that your wild mane or timid tresses are in the best of hands, without any anxiety before or after a new cut or style. And if you are considering an out-of-the-box color change, their colorists and stylists will make sure they discuss all the options that are best for your features, hair type and end desires. If you are looking for a friendly salon, providing high-end hair services without breaking the bank, Elements Hair Studio & Spa is for you.
What is better than getting a new doo while interacting with friendly people? What if the salon is in the convenient Swift Road area and has a spa like setting which is gorgeous? Yes, I know, this is all sounding better. And, complementary coffee, beer, wine and soda are offered, right along with their free Wi-Fi. Hurry on, now, you know you have been clamoring for a new look, or maybe you just haven’t found the right hair salon yet. There is more than a good chance you will connect with one of the great stylists at Elements Hair Studio & Spa, “where perfection becomes reality.
For Elements owner, Julie Rietz, IBE has been a wonderful pairing. While growing her business she has been able to put aside necessary funds for moves and expansions by letting IBE take care of things around the salon. For electrical issues, plumbers, other housekeeping items, and even laser hair removal, IBE has been an absolute money-saving guru for Julie and her staff. And thanks to bartering, Julie has been able to go on exciting fishing charter trips. As Julie explains, “Through IBE, clients have become more like family.”
With 17 years’ experience behind him, architectural salvage comes second nature to Jesse White. As he describes it, every item he saves or reclaims is “born from love of keeping historical materials from being demolished.” Wildly popular with millennials keen on doing their part to reuse items and not add to the planet’s garbage dumps, “upcycling” is the home decorating trend of this generation. Similarly, baby boomers enjoy reengaging with items from their past, so they are fully immersed in the salvage game. Television programs like “American Pickers” make it very hip to discover dusty old finds in the back of some old barn and have spun off a variety of other like-minded series. But for residents there is just one name synonymous with quality repurposing. Sarasota Architectural Salvage is the place to visit if you want to salvage, repurpose, upcycle, or just want to see some cool old items.
The mission of Jesse and his team at Sarasota Architectural Salvage is multi-faceted and serves the community, along with the planet, in several ways. With an eye for seeing something in a larger context, Jesse can look at an old building ready for demolition and determine dozens of uses for the materials that have gone into creating it. He cannot stand to see anything wasted and has built a solid reputation on locating buildings slated for demolition. In the process of salvaging everything from windows to doorframes and switch plates, he also gets to preserve a little bit of history.
Who purchases the items found at Sarasota Architectural Salvage? The answer is everyday consumers looking to furnish their homes with authentic period pieces and flippers and contractors wanting to lessen their carbon footprints on the planet. But it doesn’t stop there. Businesses looking to set an example on recycling will often come to Sarasota Architectural Salvage for a variety of items, from upcycles desks that used to be doors, to barn hooks that now serve as a custom coatrack. As Jesse explains, “We look for the good bones of an old house and often find cypress and other wood elements that can be transformed into an exquisite piece of furniture.”
When it comes to IBE, Jesse describes his time with the organization as a “really good experience.” He goes on to say, “It feels like you are a part of a family of businesses and I really enjoy that.” Since Jesse engages in a Buy Local Pledge, working within the IBE network goes right along with that. “IBE has been an absolutely perfect match and has also brought in add-on business.” Recently, Golden Vision, a fellow IBE member, challenged Sarasota Architectural Salvage to create a custom piece for the office. All through the money-saving magic of bartering, Golden Vision was able to procure beautiful old windows that have been transformed into one-of-a-kind very chic display cases for their high-end eyewear. And Jesse is always excited to meet new IBE Clients. “There is something about a barter customer walking in; it is as if they are already a friend.”
Sarasota Architectural Salvage has two locations, in both Lakewood Ranch and Downtown Sarasota. Please visit https://www.sarasotasalvage.com/ for more information.
Good optics are everything, right? I mean, if you cannot see something clearly, then what is the point of even looking. And, “optics” can also mean how you are appearing to potential friends and clients. You need your world to be clear, in every single aspect, so if you are having any sort of ocular issue, it is of the most paramount essence that you see a specialist. You need your eyes to read, work, and to see your beautiful babies as they smile at you in the morning. You know there are a host of ophthalmologists and retail locations to buy your glasses and eyewear. But you demand the best for your set of baby blues or magnificent browns, whichever color you are sporting. For those with the highest standards for their eyecare and stylish eyewear, only Soto’s Optical Boutique will do.
As “Sarasota’s hometown eyewear boutique,” Soto’s Optical has proudly served the surrounding area since 1949. Located in the heart of Downtown Sarasota, this local business staple has amassed an incredible reputation for integrity, quality service, and the finest eyewear products available. As a leader in the optics arena, Soto’s Optical Boutique provides its clientele with a truly custom experience, even fabricating all eyewear right onsite. That is correct, why ship glasses off to have a third-party complete repairs or construction of one-of-a-kind eyewear? The esteemed professionals at Soto’s Optical Boutique have the experience to make an exclusive product, just for you.
The eyewear collections found at Soto’s Optical Boutique match the exclusivity and luxury found within the Sarasota community. Whereas Sarasota Opera sings to the trained ears of the musicophiles in the area, and The Ritz-Carlton caters to those wanting the best in luxury hotels, Soto’s Optical Boutique sets the standards in impeccable service and eyewear. Store collections represent the absolute premiere lines in eyewear with names like Tom Davis, Savile Row, Vuarnet and Sama. If your tastes reflect the upper echelon in most of your dealings, then you do not want to trust your vision and classic eyewear to a middle-of-the-road vision center. In Sarasota, only Soto’s Optical Boutique can boast 70 years of custom eyewear, sun protection and accessories. There is only one name synonymous with Sarasota’s class and elegance – – Soto’s Optical Boutique. They are there for all your needs and are looking forward to serving Sarasota for another 70 years.
Having the privilege of being an industry leader for seven decades comes with a good deal of responsibility. That is why the professionals at Soto’s Optical Boutique are careful about which organizations they endorse and engage with in business dealings. They find the caring and experienced individuals at IBE to be a close match to the impeccable service they, too, provide. That is why for employee recognition and repairs and services needed at their Main Street location, they turn to the handy IBE directory of participating merchants. It seems if they have a need, IBE has a resource, something that bodes well for an established company that does not have the time to deal with amateurs. They know if a business wants to be a part of an established, thriving bartering organization, they will turn their attention to International Barter Exchange.
There is one thing that can make any occasion, mundane task, or wonderful holiday even better. It is not food; though that is also a sure bet for improving the odds of having a great time. It is not the company of others, although that is also a good guess, and something we should all seek more of in this technology-driven age. It is not even the weather, though sunshine on a wedding day is preferred even if a rainy affair is said to be a good sign for a favorable marital outcome. What makes the world go around, makes little girls sing like they are Taylor Swift, and sets the ambiance for life, is music. Music is that international symbol for love and acceptance, the one thread we all have in common. Whether it be to soothe your soul from life’s imminent pains or to set the scene for a boot-scuffling dancefloor kind of night, we all have our favorite ways of listening to or taking part in some musical interest. At Music Compound and Studio 32, they are customizing the ways in which you can immerse yourself in your lyrical talents and those of your friends and relatives. An all-in-one melodic experience awaits your music-loving soul.
Chances are if you are reading this and past the age of five, you have taken music lessons. As parents, we look for clues that our children may have musical inclinations. But, for most, it is our innate desire to dance, sing, and commune with others that inevitably persuades all humans to try the drums, flute, or singing lessons. You want to make sure you are getting the most bang for your buck in an atmosphere that compels you to sing louder, play longer, and express your talents in ways unseen. The professionals at Music Compound are the driving force behind a legion of satisfied clients, happily crooning the virtues of their lessons and performance opportunities.
With programs designed for all age groups, Music Compound can make your learning experience truly special. If you are dreaming of a “School of Rock” type childhood for your brood, them begin their musical journey at a young age. At Music Compound, a host of programs cater to those from ages four to eighteen, with differential learning built into each category for maximum interest and success for the students. And, not to leave the adults out, anybody with a passion for music, whether current or from a life long ago, is welcome to join. Music Compound is an inspiring place to relearn some of your favorite guitar riffs or to pick up an altogether new instrument. Their “come for the music, stay for the community” mantra has been the catalyst for many local adults forming new bands throughout the area. Music Compound manages eight bands in the area, five for youths and eight for adults. They perform two to three times monthly at venues throughout Sarasota.
In addition to an abundance of lesson and band opportunities, a secondary, but equally exciting and connected aspect of Music Compound exists. Studio 32 is a beautiful venue that boasts a whopping 6,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor entertainment. With seating for 170 and standing capacity for 299, you can invite your friends, neighbors, co-workers and a few strangers to your next birthday, wedding, or corporate event. Or, if you are looking for a unique destination for a reunion or jam session, consider renting out Studio 32 for a night everyone will remember.
Being an innovator in the arts sector of Sarasota requires a creative and thrifty mind. Afterall, you don’t rise to the top and have an envied location in the heart of Downtown without some ingenuity. For Music Compound and Studio 32, offering their services on barter was a natural inclination, and the money-saving attributes which followed were also a nice perk. Their summer camps fill up quickly and IBE members readily use their barter points to sign their kids up for a week’s worth of musical fun. And, currently, Music Compound and Studio 32 are considering buildout possibilities to make the most of their existing space for their growing throng of clients. With IBE in their corner, they know they can get everything they need and more with little out-of-pocket expense.
Nothing says, “I care about my establishment” more than a well-maintained and beautiful exterior area. When people pull into your driveway or parking lot, potholes, cracks, and stained cement lead visitors to wonder if the product inside of the building is any better. First impressions are everything. Though some view this is an overused cliché, the most successful business owners understand the significance of this statement. They know that in an instant a potential client’s perception of you can determine if they are to become a new source of revenue for your business, or just someone using your driveway to turn around in. You must catch them at first glance and your property had better be in pristine condition. You also need sidewalks and steps to be in good order, not only for the appealing esthetics but also to provide safe grounds for your customers and employees to navigate. If you are wanting to catch them at “hello,” let Mr. Pavers do the groundwork for that interaction.
Mr. Pavers has been serving the Sarasota area for over ten years with premium paving and asphalt services. From pressure washing, sealing, coating, restoration, and custom jobs, there is nothing that owner, Mauro Rodrigues and his team at Mr. Pavers cannot accomplish. Does your lanai need a breath of new life sprung into it? During the peak seasonal months when temperatures cool and the humidity lifts, you do not want to be stuck indoors. If walking into uneven pavers is stubbing your toes and your desire to spend time outside, let the experts at Mr. Pavers design a beautiful walkway leading to your little patch of paradise. If your pool deck looks weathered or just needs modernizing, do not despair. With a variety of options, there is quite certainly a plan that will work for your family or business. And, if you are an IBE member, why not consider contacting Mauro to see if bartering will work for your next project? Those are some savings we can all get behind.
Throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties, several housing communities and professional centers have used the detailed services of Mr. Pavers. And their areas of expertise do not just lie in the outdoor arena. Any indoor flooring or counter job is in Mr. Pavers’ wheelhouse. In fact, the rave reviews online bear witness to the incredible work he does with tile, travertine, marble, and other natural and synthetic materials. There is no job too large or small for Mr. Pavers, and they are more than happy to review your work and provide a fair estimate today.
For Mauro Rodrigues, being a member of IBE is something he has been proud of for many years. “I love IBE,” Mauro explains. “It has been a large part of the way I do business and has saved me so much money over the years.” Mauro can often be found extoling the virtues of this tremendous bartering organization to anyone in business. “I don’t understand why you would not want to be involved; you can barter for almost anything.” Over the years, Mauro has used IBE for hundreds of services. He has even been able to buy an automobile and two property parcels though bartering. Purchasing the lots has proven to be lucrative, so, for Mauro, IBE is also an avenue to make investment income.
Painting your home or office building requires a good deal of education, preparation, and dedication. For instance, you must nail down the perfect color, which can be a daunting, if not endless, task of paint swatches and intense scrutiny. You are going to be living with this color for the long term, so this is one time where you need to get it right from the get-go. How about experience; as in, do you have applicable painting know-how to get the job done to your final liking? Then there is the matter of how much paint to buy, which brand, and decisions to make on primer and satin or matte finishes. In the end, large painting jobs can prove to be a stressful time in your life. Do you really have the stamina or desire to take this on alone?
With over 20 years’ experience in the painting industry, and a native Floridian, Danny Snider has learned what it takes to create an immaculate paint job that weathers Florida’s extreme summer temperatures, mildew-inducing humidity, and hurricane strength downpours and high-velocity winds. It is not an easy task and something that not all painting companies can tout. But at Snider’s Painting, a focus on surface preparation sets them apart from their competitors. Danny Snider knows starting with pressure washing and sealing processes extends the life of a paint job. Furthermore, they understand and respect our sensitive flora and fauna and unique weather conditions which require extra preparation and care. When your reputation is on the line and your client list reads like a “who is who,” though many of these decades-long clients have become like family, you put your absolute all into every single day.
Whatever your paint job calls for, Snider’s Painting has you covered. With an impressive client and referral list, which they encourage potential customers to investigate, Snider’s Painting is not afraid to tackle its esteemed reputation head on. They are immensely proud to have been involved with many community and high-end commercial and residential projects over the years throughout Sarasota, Bradenton, Siesta Key, Lakewood Ranch, and the surrounding areas. Two current ventures include the Ringling Museum of Art & Design and Casa Mora Rehabilitation & Extended Care in Bradenton. But all one needs to do is drive down any road in a neighboring community, and a Snider Painting job is bound to stand out. It will be the one with perfect lines, impeccable coloring, and dead-on color choice. And, if it is a work in-progress, you can count on seeing a Snider’s Painting employee showing incredible respect for the environment and surrounding people and animals by using the safest most eco-friendly products available. In the end, the completed home or office will look like a work of art, because, it is.
Bartering through IBE has been a natural progression for Snider’s Painting. As someone who has lived in Florida his entire life, Danny is aware of which organizations work and those that do not. At Snider’s Painting, bartering allows them to bestow their incredible painting talent and experience on those who might not be able to afford a large painting job like a house or condo. With IBE, fellow members can call on Danny for these large ticket items while providing him with services that he needs. Everybody wins. And that is the perfect two words to describe the symbiotic relationship that exists for countless happy members of the IBE network.
