It is nearly impossible to walk by Anthony Bolling without taking notice – his tall stature, beaming smile and undeniable charisma would catch the eye of even the most preoccupied passerby. This second generation Washingtonian has lived his entire life in Ward 7 and currently resides with his wife, Melinda, and two children in Southeast’s Hillcrest neighborhood. Two years ago the couple hoped to start a small business in their neighborhood but instead chose to open a Postal Connections franchise operation in Shepherds Park Plaza right near the gateway on Eastern Avenue.

Postal Connections is best described as a one-stop shop for local and world-wide shipping and mailing. The company strives to make a connection between consumers and the numerous available shipping providers to determine the best one to meet an individual’s needs. Furthermore, Bolling emphasizes that this particular franchise is unique because each owner has a significant amount of freedom to tailor their store’s services to the local community. “It was important that the company we chose was a flexible one. I’m able to choose which services fit my customers particular needs,” says Bolling.

In addition to providing shipping services from all the national and international carriers, Postal Connections provides some personal services. If items such as furniture need to be shipped, the company is actually able to come by the customer’s home or business to pick up and securely package each item for its distinct needs and specifications. Bolling’s store also provides mailboxes that can be rented out for any length of time, be it days or years. “We make an effort to support small, growing companies by providing a business address for enterprises that are still home-based,” says Bolling. The store also serves as a Western Union location and offers travel valet services, perfect for the many government workers often flying in and out of the District.

Early on a Saturday morning, a gentle-faced man, even taller than Bolling, walks in the door and is greeted with a “hello.” He has come in hoping to find Phyllis Jackson, the location’s assistant store manager and a familiar face to those who frequent the plaza. Pointing to one of his flyers on a community bulletin board just inside the door, John Dare introduces himself as “Big John.” The home improvement specialist had been working on a project across the street and needed to make several copies of contracts.

Bolling takes this as an opportunity to praise Jackson, “Phyllis knows more about this store than I do. She’s played an integral role in our location, and people come in here every day knowing that she’ll be here to help them.”

Bolling works hard to make his business a vital part of the community, and as a certified Local, Small, Disadvantaged Business Enterprise in the District, Bolling is able to partner with other new and growing companies in joint ventures to obtain the coveted District government contracts typically snatched up by big business.

Although Bolling serves as general manager and owner of the store, he depends whole-heartedly on Jackson and a team of six part-time clerks. His true passion and much of his attention goes towards his real estate career. Working as a retail specialist and broker for Sovereignty Real Estate Services has allowed his entrepreneurship to flourish. Bolling is currently representing the Postal Connections franchiser in the District metropolitan region and is negotiating with several retail developers who like the Postal Connections brand and desire the operation in their new developments. Bolling has plans to expand the business in Wards 7 and 8 within the next several years.

7838-D Eastern Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20012
Phone: 202-722-0442
Fax: 202-722-7025
Shipit@postalconnectionsdc.com
www.postalconnectionsdc.com