Family Business Council

Spotlight is a column that features a different FBC member or sponsor each month. , we caught up with mother-son team Marilyn and Aaron Singer of Micro Format.

Marilyn & Aaron Singer

FBC Forum: Gamma (Marilyn), Arete (Aaron)

Year Micro Format joined the FBC: 2008

FBC: How did you learn about the FBC?

Marilyn : From the time I joined my husband in our business, I always felt that there should be some sort of support system for family businesses. I didn't know one existed until I met Mark Gilblair and Marcia Krinsky of L.Krinsky and Sons through another organization we all belonged to. After hearing the benefits of membership within the FBC I knew instantly that this was what we had been missing. With my son Aaron now joining us in the family business it became essential to have some additional outside support.
Aaron : I learned about the FBC through my Mom. She told me I should go, and I thought it would be a good opportunity for us to learn and grow together.

FBC: What year was Micro Format founded and can you tell us a little more about what services your company provides?

Marilyn : We were founded in 1984 and for the past 25 years have been involved in various aspects of business forms and specialty papers. We currently specialize in document security, protecting unauthorized duplication of company and personal documents.
Aaron : I handle the day to day wholesale business operations as well as assisting in the marketing and development of our SecureGuard line of papers. My wife Marla and I also run Anything But Silent Promotions, Inc This company specializes in logoed promotional products, employee incentives, screen printed and embroidered apparel.

FBC: How has your life changed professionally since becoming a member of the FBC?

Marilyn : As a small business, much of what we have learned has been self taught. The FBC has given me the opportunity to learn from the shared experiences of others. The ability to ask "What have you done in this situation?" is invaluable.
Aaron : The FBC has allowed me to learn a great deal about how other companies are run. I know that I'm not alone in coming up with a solution for dealing with whatever successes and problems arise.

FBC: What advice would you give to someone considering joining the FBC?

Marilyn : Membership in the FBC is a wonderful opportunity to learn from others who want to help you succeed both personally and professionally.
Aaron : The shared experiences you learn from your peers really help you put both your business and personal life in perspective.

FBC: What has been your most rewarding experience since you joined the FBC?

Marilyn : I've really enjoyed being able to help my fellow forum members problem solve their business and personal issues.
Aaron : I've really enjoyed having the opportunity to interact on a business level with people that aren't related to me.

FBC: What do you do in your free time?

Marilyn : I love to travel, read, and spend time with my family-especially my grandchildren.
Aaron : Free time? What free time? When I'm not working my life revolves around my 15 month old, my 5 year old and my wife. Eventually, I'll catch up on sleep, travel and take in some sporting events.