GARDEN STATE LEADERS IN BUSINESS, CULTURE, AND THE ARTS SHARE THEIR SECRETS TO SUCCESS, GO-TO POWER OUTFITS, AND ALL-TIME FAVORITE MEALS BY ZACHARY WEG AND JACKLYN PELLEGRINO PHOTOS
BY ANDREI JACKAMETS PHOTOGRAPH
Eddie Brock Jr.
Co-Owner, Brock Farms / brockfarms.com
Brock Farms traces its roots back to 1941, when Eddie Brock Sr. began selling blueberries in front of his house. From that modest start, the business soon moved to Route 34 and, by the 1960s, had evolved into a full-fledged nursery. Today, Brock Farms has grown into one of the region’s premier retail and wholesale garden centers, with locations in Freehold and Colts Neck serving homeowners and landscape contractors across the tri-state area.
Still family-run, the business offers everything from trees, shrubs, and houseplants to statuary, fountains, cement, koi, and goldfish for ponds. In fact, Brock Farms is the area’s largest dealer of cement and garden statuary. Eddie Brock Jr. now oversees the Colts Neck location, while his father and sister steer Freehold.
Though retail has changed dramatically over the last decade, Brock Jr. believes the business continues to thrive because of its focus on the customer experience. Beyond the wide selection, Brock Farms provides plant care education, personalized recommendations, landscape design services, and even potting classes. “Whether the customer buys something in the store or not, we want them to have a big smile on their face when they’re walking out to the car,” he said. “We give them an experience and that’s something online shopping can’t replace.
Seasonal offerings remain a hallmark of the garden center. This fall, shoppers will find mums, pumpkins, gourds, and a colorful array of annuals, alongside dedicated Halloween shops at both locations. And in November, Brock Farms will unveil its dazzling 40,000-square-foot Christmas shop in Freehold.
IF YOU COULD SUM UP THE SECRET TO SUCCESS IN A FEW WORDS, WHAT WOULD THEY BE?
Customer service needs to be there 100% of the time. It’s also vital that when you make a deal, you honor it, always. Additionally, provide a great selection for your customers to choose from with only the highest-quality merchandise.
WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO “POWER OUTFIT”?
I normally wear a button-down shirt displaying our name, Brock Farms, and the crew typically wears a Brock Farms T-shirt that helps them stand out in the yard because we work outside in the heat, rain, and snow.
WHAT IS THE BEST MEAL YOU’VE EVER HAD AND WHERE?
Via Sposito is the restaurant, and I’d have to say that just about any one of their pasta dishes is amazing.
Annie Leonard
Partner, Leonardo Jewelers / leonardojewelers.com
Annie Leonard has dedicated more than 25 years to Leonardo Jewelers, the family business her grandfather, Leonardo Zeik, founded over six decades ago. A Cuban immigrant, Zeik opened his first shop in 1964 in Elizabeth, New Jersey, originally selling appliances and furniture. A friend soon introduced him to the jewelry trade, where he began with simple chains and religious metals, laying the foundation for a multi-generational legacy. Today, Leonardo Jewelers thrives with two locations in Metuchen and Red Bank, offering custom designs, expert watch and jewelry repair, and a curated collection from world-renowned brands including Marco Bicego, Roberto Coin, Messika, Temple St. Clair, David Yurman, Fope, and Miseno, alongside many of the world’s most prestigious watchmakers.
Annie Leonard became the company’s primary buyer in 2019 and has since expanded the store’s offerings by bringing in many of the most sought-after, world-renowned jewelry brands. A graduate gemologist of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), Leonard is not just the primary buyer but is also actively involved in sales, an experience that gives her unique insight into clients’ tastes and needs, which directly informs her buying decisions. In 2024, she became an owner of Leonardo Jewelers, proudly carrying forward the family legacy as part of the third generation.
That tradition of connection remains at the heart of the business. “My brother and I are part of the third generation, and we witnessed firsthand my grandfather developing relationships with clients, many who have been with us for 40 or even 50 years,” she reflected. “I think our clients truly feel like they’re walking into a friend’s home, and so do our vendors. That’s what sets us apart from corporate-run stores. We are always available for our clients and friends.”
For Leonard, the mission is simple but profound: that everyone who walks through Leonardo Jewelers’ doors feels like family, surrounded by trust, comfort, and the timeless sparkle of a legacy built on relationships.
IF YOU COULD SUM UP THE SECRET TO SUCCESS IN A FEW WORDS, WHAT WOULD THEY BE?
The first thing that comes to mind is trust. If you have trust in somebody, you will succeed with them. You will develop a partnership with them. This foundation is so important to build with both clients and vendors so that when you put your name on something, they know they can trust in your word.
WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO “POWER OUTFIT”?
A black dress.
WHAT IS THE BEST MEAL YOU’VE EVER HAD AND WHERE?
If I want a great steak, I know I can always go to Steakhouse 85 in New Brunswick.
Mike Ali
Chief Operations Officer, Livoti’s Old World Italian Market livotisoldworldmarket.com
“I’m living my dream job,” said Mike Ali. As chief operations officer of Livoti’s Old World Italian Market and a driving force behind its many philanthropic efforts Ali ensures the smooth running of the beloved Italian specialty market. The Brooklyn native got his start in the grocery business as a teenager, working in butcher shops and delis and falling in love with the craft. Ali has been with Livoti’s since its inception 15 years ago, helping the market flourish into a thriving community institution, where family values and old-world hospitality remain at the heart of every aisle.
From overseeing day-to-day operations to personally visiting each of the five New Jersey locations, Ali brings a signature warmth and accessibility to his work. But as he’s quick to emphasize, Livoti’s isn’t about him it’s about family. As the son-in-law of founder John Livoti, Ali infuses the company with the same familial spirit that has long defined it. He knows his employees by name, values their satisfaction, and ensures that every patron feels welcomed.
IF YOU COULD SUM UP THE SECRET TO SUCCESS IN A FEW WORDS, WHAT WOULD THEY BE?
The keys to success are: building a strong foundation, elevating the customer experience, treating everyone with respect, and just good old-fashioned hard work. That’s ultimately what I feel helps you run a successful business.
WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO “POWER OUTFIT”?
I don’t believe power comes from what you wear. True leadership is shown through actions, setting an example, and earning respect. For me, my go-to “power outfit” is actually a Greyson polo, Peter Millar pants, G/Fore golf shoes, and a backwards snapback on a nice day out on the course with my dad, brothers, and best friends. That time together reminds me of what’s most important, and I don’t think there’s anything more powerful than reaching that level of balance and happiness.
WHAT IS THE BEST MEAL YOU’VE EVER HAD, AND WHERE?
It’s going to be hard to pick one of my best meals because, to me, my grandparents and my wife’s grandparents are some of the greatest cooks that I’ve ever met. So a Sunday dinner at grandma’s house is probably the best meal that I’ve ever enjoyed. My favorite now is dinner for four at home with my wife and two beautiful daughters, eating chicken cutlets, fresh mozzarella, mashed potatoes, and some semolina bread.
Michael Matarazzo
Partner, Pool Doctor / pooldoctorsi.com
Nearly 20 years ago, Michael Matarazzo became business partners with Richie and Robert Pasquale, contractors and brothers with a strong reputation for installing custom pools across Staten Island and New Jersey. As Richie’s brother-in-law, Michael identified a crucial aspect of owning a pool: it wasn’t just about the build. He saw an opportunity to create a company that could support every facet of the pool experience, from maintenance and renovations to smart technology that simplifies pool management. Since then, Michael has helped Pool Doctor grow into a full-service operation that supports every step of pool ownership. Technology has trans formed the industry, and he has remained at the forefront. “Everything is becoming automated,” he said. “You can control your pump, heater, and lights all from your phone.”
For Michael, the real measure of success goes beyond business. It’s found in his clients’ joy, in the memories they’ll make for years to come. “A handshake is my honor,” he said. That promise is at the heart of everything he does.
IF YOU COULD SUM UP THE SECRET TO SUCCESS IN A FEW WORDS, WHAT WOULD THEY BE?
Be on time, deliver a quality job for a fair price, and stand behind your work because things don’t always go as planned.
WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO “POWER OUTFIT”?
I spend most days in work boots and a Pool Doctor shirt. It’s what has brought me my most success. It’s not about flash; I believe what matters most is how you carry yourself.
WHAT IS THE BEST MEAL YOU’VE EVER HAD, AND WHERE?
I could live on chicken parmigiana it’s one of my all-time favorites. My wife, Lisa, makes the best vodka chicken parm I’ve ever had: crispy chicken, not too thick, cooked in a cast iron skillet.
Alex Vaynstein
Director of Commercial Sales, Worldwide Flooring Design Center worldwidefloors.com
Alex Vaynstein is driven by a simple mission: delivering the best for his clients. As director of commercial sales at Worldwide Flooring Design Center, the industry veteran (who’s completed more than 500 projects over his 20 years in the business) oversees large-scale commercial and multi-family projects, from hospitals and schools to corporate offices and high-traffic retail centers. Commercial work is a rapidly growing wing of the family-owned business, and under Vaynstein’s stewardship, Worldwide Flooring’s commercial division has doubled in size over the last three years. Armed with deep product knowledge, Vaynstein sources high-end materials from around the world to offer customers a sweeping selection of quality floorcoverings, and he prides himself on the client experience. Vaynstein and his team manage each project from beginning to end: initial consultation and product selection through execution and installation. “For me, nothing can beat the feeling of exceeding a client’s expectations,” Vaynstein said
IF YOU COULD SUM UP THE SECRET TO SUCCESS IN A FEW WORDS, WHAT WOULD THEY BE?
You must first have a vision, then you have to execute it. You have to be resilient, regardless of what business you’re in.
WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO “POWER OUTFIT”?
Although I appreciate fine clothing, I spend a lot of time on job sites and unfortunately don’t have the opportunity to wear them.
WHAT IS THE BEST MEAL YOU’VE EVER HAD, AND WHERE?
It’s really difficult to choose but I can say this: my mother-in-law is Italian, and she is a gourmet Italian chef. My wife learned everything from her, so every Sunday, I get an amazing meal.
Marc Brenner
Broker of Record, Nest Seekers New Jersey nestseekers.com
In the tri-state area’s surging real estate scene, seasoned broker Marc Brenner is a legend in his own right. With more than 20 years of experience under his Hermès belt, Brenner built his name on close client relationships, a steadfast work ethic, and keen market knowledge of the luxury landscape. From his first day on the job, the high-energy entrepreneur connected with the hustle of the fast-paced profession. Within hours of getting his real estate license more than two decades ago, he closed a deal on a two-bedroom condo in Hoboken, and never looked back. Today, Brenner is the broker of record and a top producer with Nest Seekers New Jersey, with high-market listings in many of Jersey City and Hoboken’s leading luxury developments.
“What underscores my success is that I represent the largest residential buildings in the area, so any tower can call on us if sales are moving slowly, and we’ll get it done,” said Brenner.
IF YOU COULD SUM UP THE SECRET TO SUCCESS IN A FEW WORDS, WHAT WOULD THEY BE?
Treat everybody with respect, always be helpful, wake up every day like it owes me money. Be excited, invigorated, and ready to go
WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO “POWER OUTFIT”?
A three-piece suit with Hermès details (shoes and tie), a power watch, wedding ring, and strong bracelets.
WHAT IS THE BEST MEAL YOU’VE EVER HAD, AND WHERE?
The branzino at The Corner Store. The Corner Store is the hottest New York restaurant as of right now. It has a waiting list of months and months. All of the celebrities try to get in there, and it’s just the go-to spot.