|
"Outside of my law practice, I have developed several commercial real estate projects and own some commercial buildings. As a result of those activities, over the years I have hired a number of contractors and consultants in connection with tenant improvement remodeling and design. In late 2009, one of the tenants in one of my properties (Sungari Restaurant at 735 SW First Avenue in Portland) wanted to redesign itself to provide for a bar as well as an overall 'update' in its design. I agreed to provide financing for the tenant, and became involved in the remodel of the restaurant.
Sean Herron was retained to provide, first a feasibility analysis, and then a concept and design, and finally he was hired to be the general contractor for the remodel. Without exception, all of the services performed by Sean exceeded expectation. The original remodel design for the restaurant, by another designer, was ill-conceived for the space, and had to be redone by Sean: His final design has been met with enthusiasm by everyone, but most importantly by the customers. Sean did an excellent job of selecting and supervising a team of subcontractors. They did professional work, and there were no 'punch list' problems or loose ends upon delivery. Unbelievably, they completely rebuilt the dining room and restrooms, and constructed a the bar in two-and-a-half weeks! This was critical as the restaurant did not want to be closed for an extended remodel. This also demonstrated Sean's organizational abilities in getting all of the subcontractors to do their work sequentially and on time. Sean also was able to estimate costs very accurately, and actually to bring several aspects of the job in below the anticipated cost. Finally, Sean is extremely easy to work with, and has a complete 'can do' attitude.
In short, I would not hesitate to hire Sean Herron again for any type of similar work. If you care for more information from me, please do not hesitate to contact me."
N. Robert Stoll
"It’s our pleasure to recommend Sean Herron’s and Big Idea Group’s services to you. Our business was placed in contact with him after encountering some specific construction and financial concerns all of which he addressed and resolved with great efficiency. He focused his attention on our equipment and the pragmatics of our overall design, not only saving us 40% of our entire equipment expenditures, but also helping us to anticipate problematic areas of development prior to construction, an aspect of invaluable assistance. His knowledge of the industry is unrivalled, as is his ability to intuitively perceive areas where his expertise is required. He has labored to cultivate key, fruitful connections in northern Oregon’s restaurant industry, for all pieces great and small necessary to see a project through its completion. You will find him an invaluable component for your venture, with his broad array of experience, perceptive eye and instinctive grasp of the business from the ground up."
Daniel Shoemaker
TearDrop Lounge
"We couldn't have done it without him!
Sean Herron brought his wealth of knowledge about the restaurant industry to us when we hired him as the consultant for our new venture. Sean's understanding of what it takes to get the job done was invaluable. As newcomers to the industry, we needed someone to guide and help us with all the decisions that opening a restaurant require. Sean has a wealth of contacts and resources that make the daunting job of building so much less complicated. From the concept stage through the opening we were able to rely on him. He helped us negotiate the lease, was instrumental in the concept and design, coordinated the contractors, acquired equipment, hired and trained our staff, and led us to a place where he knew we could manage. On numerous occasions he went outside the scope of his contract and often got down and dirty to save us money. Sean cares about how we are, and how the restaurant is doing, it is good to know we have him on our side."
Nancy Salta
Sue Davidson
Lucca
3449 NE Freemont
Portland, Or 97212
"It is with total confidence that I strongly recommend Sean Herron as the best restaurant consultant in the Portland area.
Sean provided full, turn-key service in the opening of (five-0-three) in West Linn. From original layout and design of the space to overall concept to hiring and training of the staff to months of operation leadership and follow-up P/L analysis, Sean is a true professional. He was able to save us thousands of dollars on equipment and furnishings we purchased as well as construction costs. His years of restaurant experience helped him to identify potential problem areas and offer effective solutions.
Most notably, Sean took on the project as though it was his own restaurant. It never felt like Sean was simply a consultant working for a fee. His blood, sweat and tears and overall level of commitment far exceeded any expectations that I had. I was so pleased with the quality of Sean's service that he was the first phone call I made when I decided to open a catering division and cafe in Lake Oswego."
John McEwan
Proprietor
"Sean Herron was instrumental in nearly all facets of the opening and success of the Highland Still House. As first time restaurant owners, he brought us an overall knowledge of the three key areas: planning and construction, kitchen design and front of the house operations.
He worked with the Health Department, Liquor Commission, and other agencies to complete their requirements, forms and permits. He organized contractors and vendors, negotiating the best possible prices, as well as personally attending auctions for equipment and doing construction projects himself in order to cut costs and insure a timely opening.
He is a good educator and has a keen gift to assess character. He was key in the interview and hiring process, and in teaching the staff fundamentals of wine, food and service techniques. He worked closely with us and the chef on menu planning and price points, always with a sense of humor and personal pride.
Sean involves himself completely in projects, available day and night and well after any contractual obligations have passed. He is honest and trustworthy, highly regarded in the restaurant community, networking well for his clients. The value of his services and money he saved us with his negotiations far outweighed the fee he charged.
Sean is now our true friend and a resource whenever we need him. His vast experience gives him the insight into what will work and be successful."
Dr. Michael and Tammy Secor
Highland Still House
"I first met Sean Herron of the Big Idea Group when my daughter and son-in-law, Erin and Ignacio de Solar, decided to open their own restaurant, del Inti, in NE Portland Oregon. Erin asked me if I would help them by acting as their business advisor. I have been in retail for over 40 years and am President & CEO of Kerr Drug, Inc., a chain of 102 drugstores in North and South Carolina. I knew nothing about the restaurant business going in, but it did not take me long to realize that Sean Herron is a pro!
Sean guided them through lease negotiations, concept development, facility design, business plan development, licensing and overall project management. Each step of the process was smooth, and executed flawlessly under Sean's leadership.
He hired all of the employees, trained them, and prepared them for their new professional responsibilities. Throughout the process I have been extremely impressed by Sean's "take control, no nonsense, and hands-on" management style; he was never afraid to get his hands dirty during the construction or set up of the business.
The restaurant is now open, and has been very successful to date, thanks in large part to Sean's extraordinary contributions. My daughter and her husband are the owners of a fully operational restaurant, and are ready to build the business while practicing their profession as chefs.
I would, without reservation, highly recommend Sean Herron of the Big Idea Group as a restaurant consultant. I am certain that your experience will also be extremely positive."
Anthony N. Civello
President & CEO
KERR DRUG, INC.
|
