Taking a New Approach Leads to New Career

It was the decidedly space-age retro design that caught the eye of Basking Ridge resident Lisa Domenick when she was contemplating franchise opportunities, but the concept is what sold her on it.

Domenick was working in the marketing department of a pharmaceutical company, when she was downsized and found herself "looking for the next phase of my life."

That's when she said she learned about the New York-based 16 Handles yogurt franchise, which offers 16 self-serve flavors of yogurt, some non-fat or low-fat, some sugar-free, and a sorbet. Although the flavors and 40 toppings mean "there's something for everyone," as Domenick said, it wasn't what really drew her to open the store in the Warren Village Shopping Center, next to Starbuck's.

She said the store's employees are the real specialty of the house, trained and ready to help customers enjoy visits. Which will help when the customers take advanatge of 16 Handles late night hours—the store opens at 11:30 a.m. everyday, and is open until 10:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The address is 6 Mount Bethel Road, and the phone number is 908-322-0616.

Domenick said those late hours are aimed at making 16 Handles a place for young people to go, someplace safe, fun and inviting.

"There's not enough for kids to do around here," she said.

Domenick acknowledged it's a difficult time to open a new business, but she's gotten a warm reception in Warren.

"In this economy, it's a little unnerving to go out there (and start a business)," Domenick said. "But everyone's happy when they come in for yogurt."