Business & Tech

Three Minutes Across the Counter With: Marianne Carrano Deszcz

A chat with the self-described canine executive overlord at Hounds Town- Port Jeff.

"Three Minutes Across the Counter" is a new feature on Patch in which we chat with local business owners. If you would like to be featured, email ryan@patch.com with the name of your business. 

We start today with Marianne Carrano Deszcz, the self-described canine executive overlord at Hounds Town- Port Jeff

Patch: How did you get your first start in business?

Carrano Deszcz: I applied to do general business management for Hounds Town completely on a whim. I was in the corporate world for 10 years but needed a change so I figured I'd see how I did in the dog world. It took me six years to work up the nerve to buy the Port Jeff location.

Patch: How did your parents influence you as a business owner?

Carrano Deszcz: They taught me to always always always save my money but know when to take chances.

Patch: 
How long have you lived here?

Carrano Deszcz: I grew up in the Pines, in Smithtown. I went away for college and lived in the city but returned to Long Island when I bought a house and had my son. And I'm old. So I'm not giving you an exact number of years. ;)

Patch: What's your favorite thing about living here?

Carrano Deszcz: The beach. I have no idea how people survive without living near water.

Patch: What's a business mistake you've made that later you were glad you did?

Carrano Deszcz: Does it make a jerk if I say I haven't made one?  ...yet

Patch: Tell us something about yourself that most of your neighbors don't know.

Carrano Deszcz: I'm Batman.

Patch: What's the best business advice you've ever received?

Carrano Deszcz: So cheesy but true: if it doesn't feel right, it isn't. Gut instincts are more accurate than any research I've ever done.

Patch: What advice would you give to a small business owner just starting out?

Carrano Deszcz: Build a financial cushion. I don't care of you have to eat ramen noodles for the first year, the peace of mind you'll get from that is worth it. Allow yourself to be terrified but do it anyway. Terror is a fabulous motivator. It'll keep you sharp and focused.

Patch: What do you look for when you hire?

Carrano Deszcz: A leader. I don't want drones - I want people who love my industry as much as I do. They need passion and drive.




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