As we approach Mother’s day I got to thinking about one of our amazing agents and all she accomplishes every day. Lori is part of the team “The Producers” and for Big Fish Real Estate I honestly have never seen her give less than 110% to any venture. As an agent she is fierce. She knows her market cold, works harder than anyone I know for a client and is well respected by her colleagues. She is creative, intelligent and wise. Quite simply, professionally I am very lucky to have her with my firm. The picture is a recent honor she received as “Successful Woman of the Month” …there have been so many honors for Lori since I have known her. I wonder, does she ever take any of it seriously? You certainly wouldn’t know it, Lori is not shy…but I have never heard her toot her own horn, she always too busy cheering on others. This is one of the qualities that makes her an amazing mother and friend. Ryan, her son, recently graduated from college and is pursuing a career with social media networking. His blog on Glipho is gaining readers everyday. His slightly sarcastic and refreshingly old-school approach is an odd mix that somehow is just right. Lori describes him as the modern day “Alex P. Keaton” and yes, she is absolutely right. And her beautiful daughter Kelly, the Pre-Med student has all of mom’s talents for directness and honesty. Kelly could sell ice to and Eskimo and have them placing future orders. Nope, the apples did not far fall from the tree. This short little post goes out to my awesome friend and equally awesome mother to Ryan and Kelly…Lori Guerin. Happy Mother’s Day Chickadee!

Carmen Pedota – GRI, CDPE, REALTOR

Carmen Pedota, a 24-year resident of Anna Maria, began her real estate career in 2005, when she joined Smith Real Estate as a licensed sales associate. Here she met her partner, Lori Guerin, they formed their partnership on a handshake which endures still. The Producer’s then moved to Betsy Hills Real Estate, and Duncan Real Estate as top producers until joining Big Fish Real Estate in October 2011. Big Fish is a firm of local experts with a global perspective with unique marketing perspectives for not only listing and selling real estate but, in the rental market as well.

Carmen, a graduate of Montclair State College situated in her native State of New Jersey, has also served as a social worker and administrator, manager of the Island’s Fast Eddies restaurant and a successful retail business owner prior to beginning a career in real estate. Carmen believes in educating herself to best serve her clients and has attained both the GRI and CDPE designations.

Carmen and her husband of 37 years, Frank, would never think of moving away from Anna Maria Island. Says Carmen about the first time they visited the Island: “We immediately fell in love with the place, the ambiance and the people and purchased the first house we saw in Anna Maria and have lived there ever since.” Today, she and Frank live with their two dogs, Lincoln, and Lulu. In fact visitors and locals alike can see Frank in his jeep while Lincoln and Lulu lounge in the back enjoying the view. They have one son, Max who resides in NW Bradenton and serves as a manager in the Champs corporate office.

Carmen and her husband are avid swimmers, are involved in Golden Retriever Rescue and enjoy traveling when time permits.

Megan Vaughn, Office Manager/ Property Manager

Megan grew up in Jackson, Tennessee where she graduated high school with honors. There she competed in numerous scholastic events and received state accolades for her efforts. Megan spent many years helping her mother maintain the family’s rental properties. Having grown up in the real estate business, she understands the nuances of property management. Megan moved to Anna Maria’s beautiful beaches five years ago and now attends SCF. Megan spends her weekends managing her mother’s island store, but you can see her smiling face in the office, always happy to be of assistance.