Berry Best Reviews: Rumball & Wojtkowicz, PLC

From time to time, I like to do reviews on products or businesses that I'm a fan of. My official seal of approval, if you will. We all know that I'm brutally honest, so if I give my Berry Best stamp to something, you can count on it being quality. 

That being said, I'd like to share with you today a fantastic new law firm, located in my home state of Michigan. 

Rumball & Wojtkowicz, PLC

Rumball & Wojtkowicz, PLC is a multi-member law practice, consisting of Jayson W. Rumball and Jakob J. Wojtkowicz. We are focused on Estate Planning, Business Planning, Real Property, Contracts, Criminal Misdemeanors and Civil Litigation. We have a very diverse education and background in Business Transactions and Tax Law. 

While they might be a new location, these guys have plenty of experience behind them. In my interview, I asked them about that, and here's their responses. 

Jayson - Prior to opening up Rumball & Wojtkowicz, PLC I worked at a small firm in Lansing where I concentrated my practice on Real Property, Construction, Contracts and General Business Law. I worked at that firm as a law clerk and attorney for 4 years. Then I move to a mid-size law firm based in Southfield, where I concentrated my practice on Estate Planning, Succession Planning and Business Planning for 8 years.

Jayson Rumball

Jakob - Prior to opening up Rumball & Wojtkowicz, PLC I worked as a solo practitioner concentrated on Tax Law, Business Planning, Estate Planning and Civil Litigation.

Jakob Wojtkowicz

I also asked Jayson & Jakob what sets their firm apart from all the others out there, and I loved their response. 

"We are a young and energetic law firm dedicated to our clients' success in all facets of their business ventures and personal lives. We offer our clients the personal touch that they wont get at the larger firms. We care deeply about our clients on a personal level versus the transactional relationship the larger firms provide. Our clients have our cell phone numbers and can call us directly, and because of that, they always speak directly to us."

In a day and age of email interaction and mass call centers, personal service and direct contact are something that automatically put a company ahead in my opinion. 

So you're probably thinking "These guys sound great, but I don't need a law firm." and that's where you'd be wrong. Here's why...

"Estate Planning is very important to the average person because without an Estate Plan, you lose control over your estate after passing. Because, the Probate Court now dictates how and to whom your assets are distributed. Probate Court is an expensive and time consuming process - on average takes between 9 months and 3 years to complete and costs an average of 3-10% of the value of your probate estate.  A scary statistic is that 70% of Americans have no Estate Plan in place."

70%!!! Maybe you don't understand how serious this is. If (God forbid) something were to happen to you, do you really want your family to have to spend up to 3 years fighting the court system? I'm guessing your answer to that is no. Lucky for you, these awesome guys not only offer their outstanding services, but they also host seminars to help educate the public on these things. How great is that?! Here's a little information on those...

"We frequently present seminars on behalf of businesses and organizations, specifically discussing the need for estate and tax planning, proper business entity set up, and business liability protection. Our last Seminar was a joint seminar with a financial planner on financial/estate planning that was held at the Fountains Golf and Banquet in Clarkston on March 11th.  We are currently planning another seminar for early May."

It seems to me that attorneys and law firms often get a bad rap. So how do you know that you're getting the best service for your money with Rumball & Wojtkowicz, PLC?

"A good law firm starts with a fully informed attorney. In order to have a proper Estate Plan in place, the attorney must know what your assets are, the approximate value of the assets and whom the current beneficiaries are of those assets.  If your attorney isn't asking you these questions, they are doing you a disservice - how can an attorney plan to protect what it doesn't know you have.  

Also, be aware of the general practice/one-stop shop type of attorneys, that say they can do everything. ie: the jack of all trades and master of none. This is the reason we have chosen our specialties and stick to being very good at those specialties.  We do this in order to provide our clients with a personal and positive experience."

Now that I've gotten you all excited to hire the best law firm around, you're probably wondering how to get in touch with them. Well here's your answer!

"Our primary office is conveniently located just of the I75/Dort Hwy Exit at 3059 Tri-Park Dr., Grand Blanc, MI 48439. We also maintain a satellite office at 8491 S. State Rd., Goodrich, MI 48438. Our offices are open from 9am-5pm M-F, but we also offer evening and Saturday office hours by appointment."

Office: 810-694-0100

Fax: 810-694-0109

Jayson 248-249-2585

Jakob 248-459-1766

Or check them out online at http://www.rwlawplc.com/ or (click here) to like them on Facebook. 

LinkedIn:   www.linkedin.com/in/jaysonrumballesq

                www.linkedin.com/in/jakobwojtkowiczesq

BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE!! 
Jayson and Jakob are also offering my blog readers this great coupon! So don't miss out on this deal! Give them a call today! And don't forget to tell your friends and loved ones too. 

Company Review: Fringe Salon

Since I have a blog, I figured that I may as well use it for something other than my random ramblings from time to time. So I decided to start doing reviews of places and things that I love or hate. 

In this case, it's a love. A really, REALLY big love. 

Today's review is for Fringe Salon in Lennon, Michigan. Check them out HERE on Facebook. 

Ok, so here's the deal... I'm female. Which means I have been through more hair salons and stylists than I can even count. I don't consider myself a difficult customer, and I don't have particularly problematic hair issues. Yet, I've found that often, dealing with hair stylists can be a real pain in the ass. I spent years trying different people, and though I occasionally ended up with a decent result, I wouldn't consider the overall experience successful. I dealt with overpriced services, rude employees, messy salons, and generally unsatisfactory conditions. I knew people who raved about their stylists, and talked about salon visits as though they were mini vacations. I yearned for this experience. But... I had begun to think it was like finding a unicorn. At the end of a rainbow. Being ridden by a leprechaun. 

Until one day, a friend showed up with a fantastic new hair style. She looked amazing. Like most women do, I inquired as to where she had it done. And then I heard the words that changed my life... she said "I go to Fringe."
It was like the clouds parted and baby angels began singing. I had heard this name before. Several times in fact. Many of my friends and acquaintances were regulars to this mystery place. So after talking to another friend (who also was a regular) I decided to make an appointment and try yet another new salon. 

That was over 4 years ago, and I've never looked back. Fringe Salon is my happy place. From the moment I walk in the door, I am overwhelmed with kindness and love. Big smiles, warm hugs, and genuinely happy faces greet you immediately. The entire staff makes you feel like a VIP customer. 

The salon itself has recently undergone a makeover of its own as well. It's welcoming and gorgeous inside, and is always spotless and sparkling. Not only that, but they are continually adding new products and services to keep you looking and feeling your best. Whether you need hair and nail services, or a relaxing massage, they've got you covered. (And gift cards are available as well. *hint, hint* Valentine's Day is right around the corner, people.)

I personally have had my hair done by 3 of the lovely and wonderful stylists there (Stacy, Jody & Trisha) but would feel comfortable letting any one of them touch my head. They are all well trained and very talented. And not only that, they listen. Like REALLY listen. When you tell them what you want, they do their absolute best to give it to you. But they're honest too. So if what you want isn't possible, instead of letting you leave disappointed, they'll take the time to talk to you and work out something that will make you look fabulous. They never hesitate to answer as many questions as I have, and I've never once felt rushed. They'll gladly explain the best products and tools to help you stay looking just as lovely as when you walk out, and even show you the proper techniques necessary to get your do just right every time. 

From the incredibly relaxing hair washing, to the finished style, I've always enjoyed every step of the process, at every visit to Fringe. 

Recently, Trisha (owner and stylist) was looking for volunteers to be models for a hair contest she was entering. Since I needed a new look, and trust her completely, I jumped at the chance. 

It was a blast, and I absolutely LOVE my new look. 

I mean... how FUN is this?? I get compliments everywhere I go, and I can't wait to tell people all about my favorite salon. 

And I have to mention that my makeup in these photos was also done there, by the very talented Jody. So if you've got a big event in your future, I strongly suggest letting her make you look like a super model. 

Left to right: Jody (who did my makeup, but also does hair and nails) Me, Jason (photographer) and Trisha (owner and stylist responsible for my latest AMAZEBALLS look)

Me and the stunning and talented, Miss Trisha. Owner and stylist of Fringe.

Believe me when I say this, you will NEVER be disappointed after a visit to Fringe Salon. Every member of the staff is phenomenal, and they take such pride in what they do. Each client leaves smiling, and if they are anything like me, can't wait to go back. 

So if you live anywhere within a reasonable distance... and you are still looking for your unicorn salon/stylist.... please go give them a try. Men, women, and children are all welcome, and I guarantee one of these talented folks will be a perfect fit for you. Take a minute and click on the link above and check out their Facebook page to see photos and posts of their latest masterpieces. And if you're on Twitter, follow @THack4855Fringe as well. 

And if you have a product or place that you'd like my honest opinion on, please contact me at BerryFavoriteThings@gmail.com and let's do this! ;)

The Toilet Paper Review

In the last two weeks, I have had more than a few conversations about toilet paper. With strangers in the super market and also with friends. This is a topic that I feel quite strongly about, and as it turns out, so do many others. With that in mind, I'd like to bring you my personal review of the most popular brands of TP.


1. Kirkland brand

Why this even exists in a civilized society is beyond me. Clearly made with recycled razor blades and glass shards, I am absolutely certain that this is the only TP available in Hell. There is a reason this stuff is practically free. It's the equivalent of exfoliating your nether bits with sand paper. I would rather drag my ass along the ground like an animal than use this shit.

2. Scott brand

This stuff is practically tied with Kirkland's for the world's worst toilet paper. Scott's apparently decided to just make their paper towel thinner and on a smaller roll and call it TP. This stuff is awful. It's nearly transparent it's so thin, and unless you like having a wet hand, you end up using half a roll. If you have to use this because you have a septic system... you should move. I promise your ass will thank you.

3. Charmin

Where to even begin? For starters, can I just ask what the hell is with the bears? So they live in houses, and are toilet trained, but they can't wear pants?? I find this weird, and even if I didn't hate your toilet paper, I would refuse to use it based solely off of your terrible marketing strategy. But your TP is gross. I never thought I would say this, but it is TOO soft. Seriously, it should come with a lint roller for your junk for post wipe. I like a soft wiping as much as the next gal, but this is just out of hand. So unless you like having TP dandruff in your under britches... don't buy this.

4. Cottonelle by Kleenex

While I don't loathe this brand, I do have some issues with it. For starters... is it made out of unicorn fur? Why on earth is it so damn expensive? This is the guest towel of the toilet paper brands. It's really just for show, you don't actually use it. And also, what's with the aloe and lotion? I mean that's great for blowing your nose, but unless you've got a serious case of booty burn, I think it might be overkill for TP. Would I buy this? Maybe. If it were on sale and I had guests coming over.

5. Quilted Northern

Based on my bathroom investigations, this seems to be the general public's go to brand. And I can see why. It's quality toilet paper. Soft, but not too soft. Plenty absorbent, yet not so thick as to require a plunger after every use. It's a bit on the more expensive side, but it tends to go on sale fairly often. I have been known to purchase this from time to time, though it isn't my first choice. Though I do wish they'd bring back the quilting old ladies in the commercials. I found them amusing.

6. Angel Soft

This is my favorite brand. While I stray from time to time, I always come back to it. Maybe it's the adorably smooshie baby on the package. I am a sucker for juicy cheeked infants. But this stuff is just good. It's the not too soft, not too hard, just right TP. I feel plenty clean after using it, but not greasy or linty. And while it's not the cheapest brand, it is definitely reasonable. And when it's on sale, it's practically a give away. I love it. And so does my southern hemisphere.



So there you have it. My fresh booty review.

Wipe in peace, my friends.



The Elmer's Glue Facial Review

When you see a bottle of Elmer's School Glue, you probably think macaroni necklaces and cotton ball snowmen, right? Well think again! 
Elmer's isn't just for crafts and eating anymore. It is now a beauty product. Yup... you read that right. A beauty product. Ever heard of the glue facial? No? Well I did. I read about it numerous times and couldn't help but wonder how the first person discovered it. Did you fall asleep, face first, into your third grader's art project? Were you enjoying a mid afternoon glue snack and dribbled onto your chin, only to realize later that your chin looked 10 years younger? We'll probably never know the answer to that one, but after hearing about this for the umpteenth time, I needed to know the answer to one major question. Does it work? And the answer is.... (drum roll, please) ... YES! 
I know, I know... I couldn't believe it either, but amazingly enough, it truly does work. 
How, you ask? Let me explain...
Have you ever used those pore strips that pull out blackheads and funk when you peel them off? This works in much the same way. You brush on a thin layer of glue to the areas you want peeled. (Start with a clean face.) I suggest staying away from eyes and hairline, and I'll explain why in a second. Once you've covered the areas, allow the glue to dry completely. This takes about 15-20 minutes or so. You'll know when it's dry. Once it dries, grab an edge and start peeling. This part is like a bad alien movie. If you have small children, you may not want to do this part in front of them. You know... nightmares and all. You'll look like you are peeling off your face, and in some areas, it'll feel like that's what you're doing, as well. This is where the avoid eyes and hairline tip comes into play. It pulls. Hard. (That is how it cleans your pores.) If there are areas that are too sensitive to peel, don't fret. It is washable glue, so you can clean them off once you are finished. 
Once you have peeled as much off as you can tolerate, (and have of course, closely examined the dried glue for all the nasty bits) give your face a good wash to remove the excess glue. Pat dry. 
I opted to go over my face with Witch Hazel afterwards, but this is purely preference. If you have a good astringent that you use, go ahead. If not, no worries. I do suggest a good moisturizer after though, since this will remove some of your natural skin oils, and may dry you out. 
If you have sensitive or allergy prone skin, try it out on a small area first. I have uber sensitive skin, and so far, I haven't had a problem. Your skin will appear slightly pinkish after, but that is due to the peeling, and perfectly normal. 
I honestly didn't have high hopes for this, but being a frugal gal who loves a good skin treatment, I had to try it. I must say I am pleasantly surprised, and will definitely be doing this again. My skin looks and feels great and I can absolutely see a difference. Give it a try and see what you think!