This month’s Family Matters blog features sisters Emily Brewer and Ariana Wheeler, both Sales Executives at American Solutions for Business. Though newer to the ASB family, their years of industry experience shine through. Both bring a wealth of knowledge and determination, cultivating their own client relationships while collaborating to achieve common goals.
When did you start working at American?
Emily – June 1, 2023.
Ariana – June 1, 2023. I have been in industry since 2004, this year is my 20th anniversary.
What’s your favorite memory from your childhood?
Emily – Probably when my little sister was born; we did not know if my mom was having a girl or a boy so when I found out it was a girl, I was thrilled. I was 7 so you can imagine my excitement to have a real live baby doll! One of my favorite memories with Ariana was playing office; yes, many girls played house or dress up, but we played office…definitely a sign of things to come!
Ariana – For me individually it would have been when I began dancing. It has been my life long love and still what I love to do today. My favorite childhood memories with Emily would have been playing games like Pictionary, Charades, cards, Minute to Win It, and so many others. We could read each other’s minds.
What motivated you to start working for American?
Emily – After running my own distributorship for nearly 30 years, I was ready to transition away from wearing the owner hat and focus solely on selling and strengthening my customer relationships. Being part of the Denver group allows me that freedom and I could not be happier with the decision.
Ariana – Coming to American was actually presented to me in the Spring of 2023, Emily let me know she had made the decision to merge with ASB. However since learning about that decision I have loved getting to know everyone at American. Everyone has been so welcoming and helpful.
Can you share a memorable success story where each of you contributed in some way?
Emily – One of my past largest accounts was Deep Rock Water, a Denver based bottled water company. Ariana did most of our creative and marketing work at the time and because of her background and ability, we were able to secure their custom bottled water label business. That piece of the pie led to several other large label opportunities.
Ariana – One of my largest accounts is a nationwide franchisee organization and I remember when I first had the opportunity to present my capabilities, including our online store options I was intimidated if I could keep up with the demand and scope of the project. Emily encouraged me letting me know the technology we had in place could absolutely support what the client was requesting and if I needed additional support it could be provided. I have had the privilege of working with that same client now over 10 years.
What do you love about working for the same company?
Emily – Being the new kids on the block, it is nice to know there is someone else familiar that is going through the same changes and challenges learning a completely new system.
Ariana – Over the years I have loved having many members of our family all work together including my mom, brother and nephew. When my oldest was born she came to work with me each day. Working for a family business and now ASB allows me to both have a job I love as well as be a present mom to my four kids.
Is there a challenge you have faced, that you were able to overcome together?
Emily – Learning the ACES system has been a challenge; for me, understanding Ariana’s approach to updating her client sites has been a big help.
Ariana – In the 20 years since I joined the company there have been so many challenges we have had to face and overcome together including staffing issues, economy fluctuations, technology needs, vendor changes, growing families and continuously progressing to provide the best service to our clients.
What advice would you give to other family pairs considering working together professionally?
Emily – Keep your work responsibilities separate but equal; keep your autonomy but lean on your individual strengths.
Ariana – Working together as a family in a business is just like being a family. Everyone has their unique personality and talents to contribute — appreciate those. Learn from each other, work hard everyday, operate with integrity, and be grateful for each day you get to spend with family.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Emily – Being part of the American family is just that…a family, I live a distance away from my family so having this adopted group allows me to feel a little closer to home. I would recommend this company to anyone considering entering the field or looking to make a change as a veteran.
Ariana – I have so enjoyed getting to know everyone at ASB from the Denver Hub to the Home Office to the people I met at conference and the Summit. I feel very fortunate to get to have this be the next chapter in my career.
To learn more about American Solutions for Business, visit http://www.americanbus.com.
American Solutions for Business Blog 
Leave a comment