Garden State Garage and Siding’s founder, Rosa Fernandes, built her company through resilience, hard work, and a deep-rooted passion for her chosen field, which continues to shine through today. Fernandes founded Garden State Garage and Siding during the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced her and her family, who have been in the construction field for generations, to adapt. After finding an opportunity to specialize in exterior home transformation, Fernandes jumped at the chance, resulting in a company that has been serving Bergen, Passaic, and Essex counties ever since.
Garden State Garage and Siding focuses on making your home exterior the best it can be through high-quality craftsmanship and great products. From siding installation and replacement, roofing services, and energy-efficient window replacements to gutter protection and garage door installation, Fernandes’ business has the tools to make every inch of a house look like a home and weather the test of time.
Their dedication does not stop at their base services; rather, they make certain they provide the best possible care for your home. They offer full exterior solutions, using 3D renderings to visualize your dream look for each project, and a customer care approach that pairs well with their James Hardie Contractor Alliance membership. All of these services truly highlight their expertise in a variety of specializations, such as fiber cement siding. However, what truly cements Garden State Garage and Siding together is Fernandes’ leadership, her strong roots and her drive allowing her business to thrive.
“Many contractors focus only on the job, but we focus on the entire experience,” Fernandes said, “Being a woman in this industry brings a fresh perspective—we emphasize attention to detail, clear communication, and a customer-first mindset that makes the process smooth and stress-free.”
That mindset has allowed Fernandes to become an inspiration to other business owners and customers alike. Her focus on the people aspect of the business has set her apart in ways that ripple all the way through Garden State Garage and Siding's process.
“As a woman business owner, I want to inspire others—whether it’s my team, my clients, or other aspiring female entrepreneurs,” Fernandes stated, “Hard work, passion, and persistence can break barriers and redefine industries. From clients to suppliers to employees, business is about people. By prioritizing trust, integrity, and genuine connections, we’ve built long-term relationships that fuel our growth.”
That growth is especially impressive in such a male-dominated industry, as it shows how Fernandes had to use those skills as well as strategy, strength, and perseverance to help Garden State Garage and Siding succeed.
“Every entrepreneur faces challenges, but women in business often have to prove themselves twice as much” Fernandes commented in regard to this, “The key is to stay resilient: push through setbacks, learn from failures, and always be ready to pivot and evolve. There will be moments of doubt, obstacles, and even people who question your ability—but the most successful female entrepreneurs refuse to quit. Keep pushing forward, stay focused on your goals, and prove them wrong with success.”
Fernandes’ mindset has served her well, allowing her to carry that success both through her own efforts and with the help of her team. That amazing team includes her husband Nuno Fernandes, who acts as his wife’s partner in business and helps her retain a strong and healthy work-life balance.
“When I’m at work, I give it 110%” Fernandes explains, “and when I’m with my family, I focus on creating memories and enjoying every moment. Balancing it all isn’t always easy, but with passion, planning, and an amazing family by my side, I’m able to thrive as a business owner, wife, and mom.”
That combination of self-confidence, adaptability, and courage has fully allowed Fernandes to truly construct a thriving business from the ground up. Her support system and forward momentum are a great example for other female entrepreneurs who may be finding that same drive forward difficult to muster.
“My biggest piece of advice? Just start,” Fernandes said on the topic, “Don’t wait for the “perfect” time because it doesn’t exist. Building Garden State Garage and Siding was a leap of faith, but it was backed by hard work, passion, and persistence—and that’s exactly what every female entrepreneur needs to succeed. Starting a business isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding things you can do. Have courage, stay focused, and never stop pushing forward!”
By taking her own advice, Fernandes was able to create a business during a time when that seemed impossible, truly showcasing ingenuity, resolve, and a will that is set in stone. Ultimately, Fernandes’ strength and story are very much like the houses she helps build here in the Pascack Valley: a testament to her drive that can weather anything that comes its way.
To learn more information or request an estimate, visit Garden State Garage and Siding’s website www.gardenstategaragesiding.com or call (201)-739-8700.
As a woman business owner, I want to inspire others—whether it’s my team, my clients, or other aspiring female entrepreneurs. - Rosa Fernandes
Balancing it all isn’t always easy, but with passion, planning, and an amazing family by my side, I’m able to thrive as a business owner, wife, and
mom. - Rosa Fernandes