February 2012
Name/Occupation/Residency
My name is Amanda Similien. I am a self-described entrepreneur with two businesses I am growing and excited to launch into this region. I am the sole proprietor and owner of Maine Street Events, LLC an event planning business based out of Brunswick. I also partnered with the creators of Proactiv® as an Executive Consultant with Rodan + Fields Dermatologists. We provide the latest in anti-aging and sun-damage solutions. I am looking for smart and savvy business minded folks to join me as we launch this company in the Maine and New England markets.
What brought you to L/A to: Live? Work? Recreate?
Having been a Maine resident for (almost) my entire life, living and working in the Mid Coast area, I desire to expand my business horizons. I am excited by the growth and development of the L/A area, while it still maintains the historical. I look forward to learning more about this area, the people who live & work here and to begin partnering with YPLAA members and the larger community.
What do you enjoy most about downtown L/A?
I love the physical bones of the old buildings, the closeness of the streets, and the strength that seems to breathe in the physical nature of the cities. Also the Androscoggin River plays a huge piece in the natural aspect of the community. There is juxtaposition between the natural and metropolitan aspects of this region, blending in a way that seems to breathe the reality of many Mainers. I love to drive down the main drags and imagine this area active and embracing all of the cultures that have, and will, call L/A home.
What would you like to see done differently in downtown?
I’m so new to this community in more than just a passing through way, that I am not sure yet what I would suggest for the downtown. I’d love to see about doing some fun events that would draw out the businesses, those with storefront presence, and those of us working from our laptops, so that we could meet each other, the community members, celebrate the area and get to know our neighbors better.
What is your favorite city ever visited and why?
I’d have to say Camp Perrin, Haiti. It is where I met my husband just two weeks into my stint as a Peace Corps Volunteer. The natural beauty, fresh fruit and amazing climate are just lovely. Can’t wait to get back to see the in-laws again soon!
Describe a night out on the town, in downtown L/A, that you’ve had lately.
As a parent of small children, a night out on the town, anywhere, is something that is few and far between. I think I would love to do a progressive supper of sorts to try out some of the amazing food I keep hearing about in this area and walk around to see the buildings and boulevards by foot. Suggestions?
Do you see value in a unified downtown identity of the Twin Cities? Why?
I don’t know, as I am so new to this community. I do believe it is important to have the communities working well and with a great partnership. Plus ease and visibility for pedestrian traffic is important.
What is the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?
Besides becoming a parent to two amazing boys, I believe the biggest risk was going out on my own for business at the start of the recession. I thrive in working for myself, and setting up my own boundaries, but it is definitely a constant challenge and risk to keep growing, building and supporting my family.
How would you like to see YPLAA evolve? Are there activities and/or initiatives you’d like YPLAA to undertake that we are not currently focused on?
I am excited to learn more about YPLAA and all that there is to participate in, and how I might fit in. I hope to become an active participant, learn about the organization, the people and the region. I will definitely share thoughts and ideas as they come.
