The Ladies Behind the Plates

A founding partner of Riverside, Mary jumped in as a leap of faith in 1997 and hasn’t looked back since.  Her background in psychology, counseling, textiles and education give her a unique perspective on the tableware industry. Always asking questions, she has a knack for listening, bringing people together and building relationships both in and out of the office. In 2009, she was honored by the Pittsburgh Business Times as an Outstanding Women in Business. Her passions are her grandson, family, friends, cheese, fresh fruit, coffee, wine, and bourbon – in that order. She lives in and adores Pittsburgh, PA.

Favorite Quote – “For all that has been, thanks. for all that will be, yes!“ – Dag Hammarskjöld

 

    Cassandra Ott / Creative Director

Cassandra’s passion for design, art, cooking, and food found their perfect match at Riverside.  As the Creative Director, she is behind the aesthetics, tackling design, product development and even snapping product shots with homemade salads and cookies. She combines her creativity and light-hearted nature with her problem-solving abilities and 12 years experience to please a range of clients including four-star hotels and celebrity chefs. You are likely to find her in her art studio or at a farmer’s market with her family in Buffalo, NY.

Lifelong dream – To live in a house designed by my dad and own a cabin in the woods.

 

 

    Mikki Opalko / Office Manager

Mikki joined Riverside the year we opened and keeps us running like a well oiled machine.  She is the constant steady force that keeps orders moving and customers happy. In addition to being a key part of the Riverside family, she is passionate about her husband and two grown daughters, Alexandra and Hannah. Outside the office you can find her spending time with her brand new grandson and Alexandra; visiting Hannah in New Hampshire; or spending summer vacations with her family at the beach.

Evening relaxation – British mysteries

 

    Heidi Mamula / Customer Success

It was hard to find a title that encompasses all that Heidi does, but it’s safe to say that Customer Service is at the top of the list. She loves to get to know people and helping others is a borderline obsession.  Heidi has a Fine Arts background and is a tinkerer by nature. Transforming everyday objects has always been a thing of hers, and even lead her to develop a line of jewelry called Warehaüs, sourced from the occasional broken plate, foam tiles, and bumpons found in the Riverside warehouse.  Raising and herding two rambunctious boys continually trains her for all types of customer success responsibilities.

Other talents – Super skier and snow lover.