Photo by Derek Simpson (from left), retail banking executive at Unified Bank, joins Audrey Buller, owner of Audrey's Avenue. Cindy Voorhies, Ohio Small Business Development Center Certified Business Advisor. George Dolney, revolving loan specialist with the Middle East Ohio Association of Governments. Michael Gochran, senior commercial banking executive at Unified Bank, was on hand to celebrate the new business in St. Clairsville.
CLAIRSVILLE, ST. — Local entrepreneur and business developer Audrey Buller plans to bring nightlife back to St. Clairsville with the opening of Audrey's Avenue on Main Street as early as June. ing.
Audrey's Avenue will be a 44-seat sit-down restaurant and bar, set in a quaint and stylish space with Gothic columns, a handcrafted walnut bar and an old-world feel.
Mr. Brahler is already a successful business owner with Giacinta's Gelato & Cafe in St. Clairsville. Giacenta's will open in October 2021 and, as the old saying goes, “Success begets success.” But every success is backed by advice, experience, and a little help. In this case, it came from a group of community leaders from Unified Bank, the Ohio Small Business Development Center, the Central East Ohio Association of Governments, and the Ohio Department of Development.
“I couldn’t have done this without the help of some truly amazing advisors and financial supporters.” Buller said. “I am very grateful to the people, businesses, and agencies that have helped me and continue to help me.”
Mr. Michael Gochran, Senior Commercial Banking Executive, Unified Bank. Derek Simpson, Retail Banking Executive, Unified Bank. Cindy Voorhies, Certified Business Advisor, Ohio Small Business Development Center. George Dolny, revolving loan expert Omega. Natalie Burley, Deputy Director of Financial Programs and Incentives/Minority Business Development, Ohio Department of Development, all collaborated on the Audrey's Avenue project.
“It was exciting to bring this group of leaders together. We worked together as a team to put together the perfect financing for Audrey's new venture.” Voorhies said.
Mr. Gokran said: “I love helping businesses grow and succeed. I take the time to understand where my customers are and where they want to go. Sometimes there is a perfect storm scenario and SBDC We can work with government agencies like , ODD, OCAP, and OMEGA to make dreams come true.”
