As it so often turns out, timing is everything. When Natalie Costas’ dear college friend and fellow poli sci major decided to go to law school, she asked Natalie if she’d be interested in replacing her at her job. Given everything she had heard about her friend’s employers, their values, and workstyle, for Natalie it was a no-brainer. Her employers, after all, were Andy and Antonia Hays.

“These are awesome people! And I love family owned businesses. They see you more as a person, not a number. My dad bagged groceries at my Greek great-grandmother Angie’s grocery store. That side of the family is full of entrepreneurs who pour themselves into their work and their customers. There’s an element of soul and care that many non-family owned businesses are missing.”

Natalie’s dual responsibilities as a paralegal and social media manager tap into two of her favorite things: writing and encountering new ideas. “I’ve always loved learning, loved reading, got compared to Hermione Granger a lot! And I’ve always loved debate. It’s a family thing.” As is thinking on her feet. The ability to verbally respond quickly and cogently was instilled in both her and her brother at the dinner table every night growing up. “It was like a comedy show! You had to be quick. And you had to stand up for yourself and your ideas. Awesome training!”