Smilebox Blog

We’re happy to introduce you to two new additions at Smilebox!

Brian Smiga is our new Vice President of Business Development and Retail based in New Jersey who comes to us through our acquisition of Preclick Corp (he was formerly founder and CEO of Preclick).  Julie Flahiff has recently joined Smilebox as Creative Director and is located in our offices right here in Redmond.

Since we’re all about sharing memories, we thought it would be fun to ask our two newest co-workers about their favorite memories of the Fall season.  Enjoy!

Brian Smiga

What are your favorite memories of Fall?

I grew up on the Jersey Shore, where I live now, so the fall was a time when the beaches would be empty, but Indian summer and warm ocean temperatures still gave you that bonus beach time.  I also fondly remember apple picking, scenic driving with the top down and high school football.

Do you have any favorite Halloween memories?

When I first moved to a new town my MOM made me a home-made space-man costume. All the other kids had store-bought costumes, so I was certain it was would be a bust, but thanks to my Mom’s creativity we won first prize.

How do you celebrate fall now?

We celebrate Thanksgiving on the Chesapeake with family.

What are your favorite activities to do in the Fall?

Growing tomatoes, corn, lettuce and peppers in our garden until late October and making tomato sauce!

Julie Flahiff

What are your favorite memories of Fall?

I absolutely adore this time of year. When I was younger my father and I would always say that we could smell the day that Fall arrived –there was just something different in the air. And though we live many miles apart now, sometime in late September we’ll still call each other to say, “Did you smell Fall today?”

What do you remember most about your Halloweens as a child?

The area I grew up in was fairly rural. By the time you finally arrived at the next neighbor’s house, they certainly made it worth your while. Popcorn balls, caramel apples, apple cider and homemade cookies–yummy!

What was your favorite Halloween costume?

One year my then-boyfriend (now husband!) and I went as Cyndi Lauper and Billy Idol. Hmmm, I wonder whatever became of those pictures…

Do you have any special traditions to celebrate Fall with your family?

Thanksgiving is the biggie for us. It starts as we wake up and eat bagels and watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade while still in our jammies. Pretty soon the house is full of wonderful smells and the noise and laughter of our family and friends. Then we eat–what could be better?