For over the past 20 years, we’ve celebrated the Valley’s best. From the top businesses and professionals to the people who make it all happen, Arizona Foothills Magazine’s annual Best of Our Valley contest recognizes Arizona’s crème de la crème across more than 400 categories. From the best doctors and best resort down to the best cup of coffee you can find around town, each Best of titleholder is chosen by those who know the city best – our readers.
Each week, we’ll be highlighting individual winners from Best of Our Valley 2018, who share their advice, insights and thoughts on what it means to be a part of this exclusive list.
The Best of spotlight is on Gallery Andrea, who claimed Best Local Art Studio. Congrats, Gallery Andrea!
AFM: In a brief 2-3 sentences, please tell us a little bit about you & Gallery Andrea!
Gallery Andrea: Gallery Andrea opened in 2004 and is named after the mother daughter duo Andrea de Kerpely-Zak and Andrea Zakrzewski. De Kerpely-Zak is internationally known for painting “Healing Flowers,” and two of her works were commissioned for Pope John Paul II. The gallery also displays works by her daughter, Andrea, and local, national and international artists such as florals, landscapes, figurative, abstract and fashion.
AFM: What does it mean to you to be a Best of Our Valley winner?
Gallery Andrea: We are honored to be chosen and feel that it recognizes the passion that we put into what we do. The public can sense when someone does what they truly love for a living.
AFM: What’s your favorite part about being the Best of Our Valley’s Best Local Art Studio?
Gallery Andrea: The best part is being involved with such an amazing magazine. We have met so many interesting people at their events such as the Best of celebration.
AFM: What advice would you give to others to be the “best” in your field?
Gallery Andrea: Advice: NEVER GIVE UP and have faith that your hard work will pay off. I set a schedule and come up with a strategy of sales every day.
AFM: Have you seen any benefits as a result of being a BOOV winner?
Gallery Andrea: There are many, including being featured in the magazine and getting some amazing exposure.
AFM: How does your team put their “best” foot forward every day?
Gallery Andrea: KEEP A POSITIVE ATTITUDE. You can’t sell if you don’t believe in yourself and your product.
Interested in participating or want to recommend a business, professional or individual for Best of Our Valley? Best of Our Valley 2019 is now accepting nominations. Click here to find out more!
