Name: Jay Peine

Position: Owner

Business Name: Open Mind Creative

Address: 14 Blueberry Path

City: Howell

Phone: 908-420-7161

Website: https://openmindcreative.com/

 

How did you come to be in this line of work?

I've always been drawn to creativity and problem-solving. What started as a passion for design and technology turned into a 20+ year career helping businesses communicate more effectively through branding, websites, marketing, and customer experiences. After leading creative teams in the software industry for many years, I launched Open Mind Creative to bring that same level of strategic thinking and premium creative to local small businesses.

 

What makes you different from others in this field?

Many designers focus on making things look good. I focus on helping businesses grow. With experience leading creative teams for a large software company, I bring both creative expertise and business strategy to every project. My goal is to create work that not only looks professional, but helps businesses attract customers, build trust, and stand out in their market.

 

Who would use your services or product?

Open Mind Creative works primarily with small and growing businesses looking to elevate their brand. Whether it's a new logo, website, marketing materials, social media content, or promotional video, we help businesses create a professional presence that reflects the quality of their work.

 

What do you regard as your greatest achievement in business to date?

Building and leading creative teams that supported a business serving thousands of customers across North America was a rewarding achievement. More recently, launching Open Mind Creative and helping local business owners bring their ideas to life has been especially meaningful. Seeing a small business gain confidence and momentum because of work we've done together is incredibly rewarding.

 

What do you hope to get out of your chamber membership?

I'm excited to build relationships with other local business owners, learn more about the Howell business community, and find ways to contribute where I can. I believe strong local businesses help create strong communities, and I'm looking forward to being an active part of that.

 

What committees would you be interested in participating in?

I'd be interested in supporting marketing, communications, website, technology, membership growth, or community outreach initiatives where my creative and digital experience could be helpful.

 

Tell us something others may find of interest about you.

Before starting Open Mind Creative, I spent over a decade leading creative teams in the software industry. I'm also a proud Howell resident, am married for almost 16 years, have 2 dogs, and someone who genuinely enjoys helping local businesses succeed.

What is your favorite activity or hobby?

Spending time with family, golfing, going to the beach, and exploring local businesses and restaurants throughout Monmouth County.

 

What is your life motto(s)?

Progress beats perfection. The best ideas gain value when they're put into motion.

Name: Joanne Messinger

Position: Owner

Business Name: Payroll Vault

Address: 7 Tulip Court

City: Jackson

Phone: 732-290-4030

Website: https://www.payrollvault.com/218

 

How did you come to be in this line of work?

I’ve spent my career in HR and payroll services, supporting businesses of all sizes, from

start-ups to large-scale operations. After years of helping others streamline their back-

office functions, I decided to launch my own business - JRCM X-Celerate, doing business

as Payroll Vault. It was the perfect way to combine my passion for people, processes,

and small business success.

What makes you different from others in this field?

We’re not a call center. Our clients get a dedicated payroll specialist who knows their

business, understands their needs, and provides personalized, timely support. With

Payroll Vault, small businesses get big-service feel with boutique-level attention and the

flexibility to scale with growth.

Who would use your services or product?

Small business owners, particularly those with 1–50 employees, who are tired of

managing payroll on their own or frustrated with impersonal, hard-to-reach providers.

We also support accounting firms that want to refer or outsource payroll services for

their clients.

What do you regard as your greatest achievement in business to date?

Launching my own company has been the most rewarding leap. Turning my years of

expertise into a business built to help others succeed has been a proud and fulfilling

milestone.

What do you hope to get out of your chamber membership?

I’m looking forward to building strong relationships with fellow business owners,

learning from others, supporting local growth, and giving back to the community.

What committees would you be interested in participating in?

I’d be happy to get involved in Small Business, Events, or Membership committees

where I can collaborate, contribute ideas, and help create value for members.

Tell us something others may find of interest about you.

I have three boys, and between them all, I’ve spent many weekends on the sidelines

cheering them on through years of Travel soccer. It’s been a big part of our family life

and kept us on our toes!

What is your favorite activity or hobby?

Baking is one of my favorite creative outlets, and I also love to travel—exploring new

places, cultures, and foods whenever I get the chance.

What is your life motto(s)?

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” It’s a reminder that progress matters more than perfection—and that resourcefulness and persistence go a long way.