Local Woman Is On The Right Track

Whether it’s at the Eco Galleria Gift Shop at the Oradell train station or on the career fast track, many journeys include a stop meeting Kathryn Longo.

Kathryn’s own journey has taken her on a dual track for many years. She has had a successful career in management, and most recently offers services to companies that are committed to advancing women through her venture called Leading Women NJ, LLC.

While she was reviewing spread sheets and balancing budgets, working as an actuary, or conducting training programs at small businesses or Fortune 500 companies, Kathryn, of Oradell, has also fostered her creative side through the arts. She studied dance and theater in college, and was a choreographer and costume designer for the Garage Theater Group for several productions. She has also been the long-time proprietor of Eco Galleria, currently located in Oradell.

Serving customers for more than 15 years in various Bergen County locations, Eco opened its doors in the historic train station two years ago.

“We are a fine American craft gallery where art and soul come alive,” Kathryn says of her shop. “We are also ecologically minded so many of our one-of-a-kind gifts are made from recycled items.”

It’s no wonder Eco Galleria was named as runner up as Best Gift Shop in Bergen County in the 2012 Bergen Health and Life Reader’s Poll, and won first place for Best Hostess Gifts. The store carries jewelry, pottery, glass, wood, fiber and garden decor.

“You will find whimsical, fun gifts that tickle the imagination,” she explains. 

The shop features a wide variety of handcrafted items created by artists primarily from North, Central and South America. To support local women crafters and artists, Kathryn recently featured several women artists at weekly trunk shows.

“I wanted to showcase the many talents of women in our community so they could get exposure for the wonderful work they are creating,” she says.

With only a few days left until Christmas, Kathryn understands the stress holiday shopping can add to an already hectic schedule. To help out, she has extended her hours and will even open to suit her customers' schedules. Whatever the case, you can be sure Kathryn she will always greet you with a smile and help you enjoy a pleasurable shopping experience. 

“If you commute on the train here at the station and need me to come in early in the morning, when you are having your coffee at Crazy John'd Java, just tell John and I will come in early for you! Or tell him what you want and leave your phone number, I’ll have the gift wrapped and ready when you have your coffee the next day," she promises. 

Kathryn sums up her multi track career this way: "Creativity and business sense go hand-in-hand in whatever business you get involved in," she says."I am glad I can put my 'left brain' and 'right brain' talents to good use." 

To learn more about Eco Galleria, go to www.ecogalleria.com. To learn more about Leading Women and the services offered, go to www.leadingwomen.biz.

To read more inspiring stories about women who are following their passions in the business world or elsewhere, go to www.amorejourney.com/blog