Starry-Eyed Love (Spark House)

“That’s a very symbiotic relationship you’ve formed.”

“Absolutely. We like to cultivate and foster relationships with local companies.”

“Is that wise for your bottom line?” Jackson taps his pen on the table and crosses his legs.

“Trading resources? You said yourself, it’s symbiotic.”

“But is it the most fiscally responsible way to practice business? Small companies often have to charge a premium in order to turn a profit,” he states. “Which in turn means you’d have to pass that on to your clients. That would deter some business ventures, would it not?”

Oh hell no, this guy isn’t going to ruin my chances of being considered for this initiative because he’s butthurt over me turning him down. “It’s quite possible. But I would argue that paying slightly more while knowing you’re investing in the reduction of your carbon footprint and supporting a small and community-focused business can be a draw for the right kind of client. We don’t necessarily want to entice customers who are just looking for something cheap and easy. We’re about providing superior service with a unique spin.”

“And you think that’s enough to grow your client base?”

“Maybe I’m not understanding the purpose of this venture correctly, but isn’t that the entire point of the Teamology initiative? To help facilitate that growth in a fiscally responsible way?”

His expression remains remote for several long seconds, and the only part of him that moves is his finger when it taps twice on the table. “We’re looking to partner with strong, green-friendly businesses who are also aware of the importance of the bottom line.”

“Which isn’t always about the cheapest option,” I argue. “We’ve seen a twenty-five percent increase in new bookings over the past three years. And last year, we secured our first sponsorship, which allowed us to nearly double profits and invest in more local businesses.” I flip to the slide showing our business growth over the past few years and the way we’ve been able to invest in more opportunities as a result. “Sometimes it can be slightly more expensive than outsourcing, but the positive side is that we’re supporting inside the community and it tends to balance out in the end. We’re looking ahead, to the long-term benefit for our community and the longevity of our business.”

“You had a few hiccups with Go Green at the beginning. How can I be sure that won’t happen again? As you’re aware, the social media side of this venture is integral to its success.” He steeples his hands, exposing the vintage watch on his left wrist. His chin rests briefly on his pointer fingers.

It irks the hell out of me that he seems to be deriving great enjoyment from putting me on the spot like this. “We’ve learned from our mistakes, and we don’t plan on repeating them. Over the past six months, we’ve developed a great working relationship with Go Green, who is a major sponsor of ours, adjusting many of our practices to line up with their mission. We’ve omitted all nonrecyclable plastics and have shifted to paper products whenever possible. We’ve also started using linen companies who have adopted environmentally responsible cleaning practices.”

“And you feel that’s enough to make up for your earlier oversights?”

I struggle not to talk with my hands, I’m getting so agitated. “Look, you invited me here and asked me for this meeting. Last minute, I might add. I rearranged my schedule to accommodate you, not the other way around. If you don’t think Spark House is a good fit for this initiative, then please just say so and I’ll be on my way. We have an event this weekend, and I’d prefer not to waste any more of my time or yours.”

A smile flirts at his lips for a moment before he nods. “My intention isn’t to waste your time, Ms. Spark, just to ascertain whether our goals align. Your role at Spark House is what exactly?”

I feel like I’m getting whiplash from this conversation. I don’t know what’s up or down at this point. “My sisters and I own it, and while we split up most of the work, I handle the business relationships. This includes managing contracts, accounts payable, and finances. In addition, I liaise with other green companies who can provide services, depending on our events. I also work on securing sponsorships with green-focused companies, so we’re able to provide excellent services to our clients, among other duties.” I’m fairly certain he doesn’t want to hear about my trips to estate sales and my researching used goods to repurpose. Or my origami addiction.

“And it’s just you and your sisters who run this operation? That seems like quite the endeavor.” His gaze lifts. “What about the rest of your family?”

“My parents passed, so my sisters and my grandmother are all the family I have.” I swallow down the lump in my throat.