ABOUT MATTHEW

In November of 1985, at the age of 19, one week after graduating from vocational college, I moved from a small farm in Iowa to Snellville, GA, on the advice of a friend who told me the area was rich in job opportunities.

​

Arriving in a 1976 Chevy Vega with only $20 in my pocket, I was welcomed with southern hospitality and dishes including black eyed peas and okra. I made ends meet on $5.50 an hour by carpooling, coupons, and having roommates. My first bedroom was actually a couch with my clothes stored in the hallway closet.

 

During a tour of my new locale, I was driven to Lake Lanier, where I first saw the towers off the interstate proudly proclaiming “Gwinnett is Great” and “Success Lives Here”. It was the confidence and boldness of these statements that told me I had landed in the right place. 

 

Shortly after, I enrolled in adult education night classes at Emory University on how to start a business. This class propelled me to create my 10-year vision to become self-employed and opened my eyes to the possibilities surrounding me.  

 

It’s been 37 years since that move from Iowa. During that time, I have met and married my sweetheart Suzanne, we have raised two beautiful daughters, grown a business from a single customer, and continue to be deeply involved in our local business and church communities.

 

 Gwinnett is Great. Gwinnett is home.