She encouraged Candace to network with some of the alumni since Candace herself was a CU alumnus. The evening had been very successful for CU. The money they raised would pay for upgrading the equipment in the media lab. This was one of the necessities that Bette had outlined in her presentation if the college wanted to be competitive with the other top tier schools.

It was only when Bette had done the research that she found out that Candace’s company was actually quiet well-known and sought after. They had done several projects in the area; many of which Bette and Tina had admired when they’d spent the afternoon at the beach following the meeting with the financial consultants.

***

“I’ve gotten several recommendations but two firms stand out above the rest. One is Design Ventures and the other is Jewels and Watkins Architectural Design Group. I actually met one of the owners Candace Jewels at Phyllis’ deal a couple of weeks ago. She is on the board of trustees at CU.”

“Well that’s a coincidence. Did you already talk to her about the job?” Tina asked, wondering why Bette hadn’t mentioned it before.

“No I didn’t know anything about her firm at that time besides we were there for CU business so it wouldn’t have been appropriate. She’s also a bit of a lecher. I spent most of the evening trying to keep my distance. She kept making advances towards me even after I repeatedly told her I wasn’t interested. Leigh had to run interference several times.”

“Bette, why didn’t you tell me? Are you sure you want to do business with someone like that?”

“Tee I’m sorry I didn’t mention it but she really wasn’t important enough to even take notice. I wouldn’t even bring it up now except that her firm is one of the top in the industry. I want to go with the best so I don’t want to discount them on first impressions of one person from the company whom I met during a social event. I’m hoping that Ms. Jewel’s business conduct would be more professional or I can just request to deal with Ms. Watkins. In either case I will call both firms on Monday to try to schedule appointments for next week. I’m really anxious to get started. If things go as planned we should be able to occupy the space and open the gallery by the first of the year.”