Ulka Bhavsar - Owner of Office Evolution Somerville
As businesses continue to expand, their office space needs evolve as well. Office Evolution Somerville, which celebrated its 10-year anniversary this September, has been a transformative force in the local Somerville business community. Founded by Ulka Bhavsar, the franchise began as the first Office Evolution location outside Colorado, marking a significant expansion for the company. Bhavsar, with a background in commercial real estate and a passion for supporting small businesses, seized the opportunity to blend her skills with her husband’s marketing expertise. "I wanted to create something that was worthwhile and rewarding, and there’s nothing better than starting your own business while also helping other entrepreneurs succeed," Bhavsar reflects.
Over the past decade, Office Evolution Somerville has grown from 24 to 32 private offices, adapting through challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, Ulka personally ensured that members received their mail and maintained a connection with clients, reflecting her commitment to the community’s well-being.
The center offers a range of services including conference rooms (by the day or hour), coworking, mailboxes and dedicated private offices all designed to provide flexibility and convenience for businesses of various sizes and types. Bhavsar’s innovative approach to client relations, such as creating collaboration among complimentary businesses, has earned her the reputation of a “business matchmaker.” And most recently, Office Evolution Somerville won 'Best Coworking Space' in the Bridgewater and Somerset Hills City Lifestyle 'Readers’ Choice' Awards this year.
Looking ahead, Bhavsar plans to expand her franchise while continuing to support local businesses. She is dedicated to enhancing infrastructure and nurturing a vibrant community of entrepreneurs. Longtime members have shared their positive experiences with Office Evolution and Ulka.
Anna Ren - Elite Advantage Prep
Ren, founder of Elite Advantage Prep, paints a vivid picture of how Office Evolution Somerville has been more than just an office space—it's been a nurturing community. When Ren first joined Office Evolution Somerville, her business was growing from a home-based setup to a more centralized hub. “It wasn’t just about finding a place to work,” Ren reflects. “It was about connecting with a network of people who were as invested in their success as I was in mine.”
Ren's journey with Office Evolution Somerville began over a decade ago, and she’s witnessed firsthand the magic of Ulka. Ren explains, “She creates a space where ideas flow freely, and genuine connections are made.” This unique environment has not only supported her business but also facilitated lasting relationships, including meeting her own personal attorney and witnessing other members' lives intertwining. For Ren, Office Evolution Somerville is where business growth meets personal connections, proving that the right environment can truly enrich one’s professional and personal life.
Jarrett Dewelde - CFP® - R.I.C.H. Planning Group, LLC
Dewelde, a financial planner based in New Jersey, shares how Office Evolution Somerville has transformed his business operations. With a focus on convenience and efficiency, Dewelde explains, “The beauty of Office Evolution Somerville is that for a single monthly fee, everything is taken care of—from reception services to Wi-Fi.” This setup allows him to bypass the headaches of managing a traditional office while benefiting from a professional environment.
He particularly appreciates the location’s appeal, noting, “Being in downtown Somerville adds a certain charm. Clients love that they can combine their visit with a meal or coffee at nearby spots.” Dewelde values the collaborative atmosphere at Office Evolution Somerville, where he finds opportunities to network with other businesses. “It’s not just about having a space to meet clients; it’s about being part of a community that supports and enriches your business.”
Andy Barresse - Halo Home Maintenance
Halo Home Maintenance, spearheaded by Andy Barresse, demonstrates the power of leveraging a professional workspace to drive business success. When Halo Home Maintenance joined Office Evolution Somerville, their goal was to enhance Halo's market presence and build a stronger brand identity. Barresse emphasized the impact of having a professional address, noting, “As soon as I got this address, I started hitting my customers, and I started coming up in Google searches.” This visibility was crucial in differentiating Halo from competitors, all thanks to Office Evolution Somerville.
The professional environment not only boosted Halo's credibility but also provided a platform for networking and client meetings that further solidified their market position. “The business lounge and meeting rooms have been invaluable for client interactions and presentations,” Barresse added. “It’s not just about having a prestigious address; it’s about creating a professional image and having the tools to succeed.” Through this partnership, Halo Home Maintenance has not only enhanced its visibility but also cultivated a professional atmosphere that drives growth and success.
Rose Marie Iskowitz - Halo Home Maintenance
Iskowitz, who initially joined Office Evolution Somerville in a business consulting role with Halo Home Maintenance, often refers to Ulka as the "business matchmaker." Iskowitz explains, “Ulka takes the time to understand her clients and connects them with others who can benefit their business.” She adds, “Ulka goes out of her way to make introductions and build a supportive network.” This nurturing approach has been pivotal not only in supporting Halo's growth but also in facilitating the company’s recent successful expansion into franchising.
For Barresse and Iskowitz, Office Evolution Somerville, under Ulka's expert guidance, has become a cornerstone of their business development strategy. The professional connections and strategic insights provided by Ulka have significantly contributed to their success and ongoing expansion.
For more information of Office Evolution Somerville visit www.officeevolution.com/locations/somerville/.