These are REAL references from our clients actual emails:     Referral‏ From: Jeff Templeton (----------@xxxxxx.com) Sent: Tues 12/01/09 9:17 PM To: 'John Lewis' (windycityjohn@hotmail.com)                         John and Brigitte: Bonnie and I would like to thank both of you for the considerable time and effort you gave to us during the design of our kitchen remodel project.  As you know, the project involved a complete demolition of the existing kitchen and new build-out.  From the first meeting with you, it was apparent to Bonnie and I that we were fortunate enough to be working with experienced professionals who were interested in learning about our needs and incorporating those needs and wants into the design.  You listened, captured our thoughts, then offered your professional input in the form of suggestions and recommendations that resulted in a design that Bonnie and I felt was absolutely right for us. You both responded promptly via phone and/or email to the many questions my wife and I had during the design process.  We went through 3-4 rounds of design meetings involving a very productive exchange of ideas, preliminary designs and positive discussion involving all aspects of the project; you offered suggestions about style, finish, layout, lighting, drawer/cabinet options and color coordination, all consistent with our budget.       In the end, after Bonnie and I discussed the pros and cons of the designs and pricing received from you and two other design firms, we felt very comfortable and excited about selecting your design.  As you know, our kitchen remodel is in the final stages of being completed.  Bonnie and I agree that thanks to both of you, we will have the kitchen of our dreams within the next few days.  And, we’d like to have both of you stop by within the next few weeks to see the finished product.  I’m sure you’ll be as excited about our new kitchen as we are. Bonnie and I want to thank both of your professionalism and flexibility in working with us to finalize what we believe is a spectacular design. Sincerely, Jeff and Bonnie Templeton             Schaumburg, IL. .............................................................................................................................................................................................. RE: End of month and request.....‏ From: Steve Sesterhenn (---------------@---------.com) Sent: Tues 11/17/09 9:31 AM To: 'John Lewis' (windycityjohn@hotmail.com)   image001.gif (1.8 KB)          To whom it may concern, John and Brigitte have been a wonderful team to work with during our recent kitchen remodeling project. We were working with a challenging initial configuration and they came up with several alternates that used our space more efficiently and allows for a much better working arrangement. Through multiple iterations and very useful software produced designs, we finalized on a complete remodeling of the kitchen, including the removal of a pantry and redesign of the island. As a result, we have a much better floor plan, some creative touches that add visual appeal and all of our desired design elements incorporated. What was most impressive was their willingness to work with us through several options, build easily understood visual representations of what finished spaces would look like and make adjustments with ease. Their professionalism is without compromise and they bring a wonderful attitude to the work. They care about their designs and clients, and are eager to assist by teaching, listening and compromising. In short, they know their stuff and were a pleasure to work with! Steve Sesterhenn Ph: 847-xxx-xxxx (office) Ph: 847.xxx.xxxx (mobile) Fx:  916.xxx.xxxx  ..............................................................................................................................   Re: kitchen update>>>>>>>>>>>>>‏ From: David Burrage (xxxxxxxx@----------.com) Sent: Thurs 10/15/09 11:05 PM To: John Lewis (windycityjohn@hotmail.com)    Hi John, Here's my endorsement for you and Brigitte: "John and Brigitte have been just outstanding to work with.  Their friendliness and personality captured my attention initially, but it was their conscientiousness and their follow through that won me over.  I was especially impressed with their ability to listen to my needs and to recommend creative solutions that fit my price range.  They proved to have an excellent grasp of the industry and the kitchen remodeling process, and gave me superb guidance for every decision that needed making.  They are resourceful and always available.  I would gladly use them again."  -- D. Burrage, Arlington Heights, IL  ....................................................................................................................................  ………………………………………………………………………………………………      From: Jeanette Kratz (xxxxxxx@---------.com) Sent: Thurs 10/15/09 2:55 PM To: John Lewis (windycityjohn@hotmail.com)   John and ...doc (18.6 KB)   Hi John: Here's something you can use as my reference:   John Lewis and Brigitte Manzke make a great team. John’s expertise in designing kitchens and Brigitte’s qualities of being a good listener and interior designer make them the perfect complement to each other.   John’s exuberance about a project is tempered with Brigitte’s calm attitude. He is the big idea man and she is the voice of reason. He will come up with different ideas and she will tell him whether or not they will work or if that is what the client wants.   Both will spend as much time with you as required to understand what you want or need and how to accomplish it. They are willing to go back to the drawing table to redesign your project and come up with a design that will work for you and that you like.   I would definitely recommend John and Brigitte for a kitchen design.   I've also attached the document for your use. Good luck and thanks a lot for your help.   Take care.   Jeanette