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September 5, 2008

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Small-business owners, you deserve a moment in the spotlight. In this regular column, we highlight entrepreneurs from all over the U.S. who can answer the question: "What makes you stand out from the crowd?" We know you're proud of your accomplishments — now you can tell the world about them, too.

Lisa Breier Urban, co-founder of Breier Deutschmeister Urban & Fromme, answers our questions:

What makes you stand out from the crowd?

Unlike most real estate attorneys, I actively practice in all major sectors of real estate law: residential, commercial and retail. They are distinct, with a different set of issues and challenges. I am proud that I successfully represent my extremely diverse client base in the best, most fully-informed manner. And, I am very pleased that a lot of my business comes from client referrals.

My name is: Lisa Breier Urban
My business is: Breier Deutschmeister Urban & Fromme
Industry: Real Estate Law
Location: New York
Year founded: 1990
Number of employees: 8
Web address: www.bdulaw.com

What's the best part about owning your own business?

That’s easy. I do what I want and love, as my own choice. Of course, with that freedom, comes immense responsibility — fulfilling staffing needs, managing budgets, meeting client demands and business building — but I embrace it whole-heartedly. I also cherish the fact that I am a role model for my daughters (ages 13 and 11) who see their mother working and achieving and still, always, being there for them.

What's the biggest hurdle you've overcome?

There are two, actually. Real estate law is primarily a male-dominated field, where the “old-boys-network,” while diminishing, is still around. It can be frustrating at times, but I feel that showing up and doing my best every day is the most effective solution to a situation that will eventually be a nonissue within a few years.

The other hurdle is juggling my responsibilities as an entrepreneur and a parent. I realized early on that one person can’t do it all. I have a great support system: My husband is a very involved parent; I have a wonderful, talented staff; and my sister, brother and parents are always there to provide a hand if I need it. Without them, I would not be able to manage both sides of my life as well as I do.

What's the best business advice you can offer?

Mentor and support other female business owners. There is strength in numbers and we have so much to offer each other.

Are You a Stand Out?
To be considered for this column, please send an email (and a digital headshot!) to Editors@smSmallBiz.com, answering these questions:

My name is:
My business is: (name of business, plus description)
Location:
Year founded:
Number of employees:
Web address:

What makes you stand out from the crowd?
What's the best part about owning your own business?
What's the biggest hurdle you've overcome?
What's the best business advice you can offer?
If a business organization referred you to us, please tell us which one.

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•Stand Out: Celeb Wrangler Seeks More Than Talent
• Stand Out: This Owner Puts Shoes on Celebs