Everyone says that building a company is hard. When Andrew first started Lakefront in 2011, neither of us fully understood just how much work it would be. Looking back on the last 15 years, we can honestly say… they’re not wrong. But we can also say with certainty—it has been 100% worth it.

It’s become our running joke that running a business is a roller coaster of emotions—and it truly is. There are highs that make you feel on top of the world, and lows that test your patience, creativity, and resolve. Through it all, we’ve learned the importance of riding the waves with grace. And it’s so worth it—the team we’ve built, the clients we’ve connected with, and the homes we’ve had the privilege to bring to life.

Looking at our 2026 team photo above, we can’t help but pause. Years ago, this was something we only dreamed about. We didn’t know how to take the first step, and at times, it felt too big, too hard, too far away. And yet, here we are—surrounded by an incredible team who care deeply about every project, every detail, and every client experience.

Six people sit around a table in a meeting room while a screen displays "Project Updates" and construction photos, highlighting progress on custom tile showers.

If you had told us ten years ago that we would have a team of eleven supporting Lakefront, we would have laughed. That’s not what we saw coming. Today, our roles have evolved, our processes have grown, and the company has become organized and defined in ways that make daily work smoother and more meaningful. Owning and operating a business—of any size—means your brain is always on. You’re at work 24/7, even when you’re somewhere else. But this journey has been infinitely easier—and infinitely more joyful—because of the amazing people around us. Our team makes coming to work in the morning a joy.

Thinking back to where it all began on January 9th, 2011—literally the first expense recorded in the books for sanding supplies on a small job—we never could have imagined how far we’d come. The projects, the team, the clients, and the connections we’ve built are more than we could have dreamed. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey.

Here’s to 15 years of growth, learning, and building homes that matter—and to many more ahead.

With gratitude,
 Andrew & Ashley

A man in a black cap speaks while sitting beside a woman during a meeting in a room with snowy landscape visible through the window, where custom tile showers are being discussed.
Andrew and Ashley Favorite of Lakefront Building & Design.