Lenbrook Associate Denise Huffman Keeps Convenience Close at Hand for Residents
Located on the first floor of the Brookhaven building, the Convenience Store is an integral part of the weekly routine for many Lenbrook Residents. A quick stop there can yield a favorite snack, the perfect birthday gift, or a much-needed postage stamp.
Convenience Store Supervisor Denise Huffman oversees hundreds of food, convenience, and gift items, all available to purchase via Flex Funds or credit card, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. She also manages the Market at Kingsboro, a self-service kiosk providing 24-hour access to sundries and snacks. One of the biggest reasons the Convenience Store has become such an appreciated amenity at Lenbrook is Denise, who carefully selects merchandise that reflects resident interests and needs.
“My goal is to really know my customers,” she said. “I listen to what they like and what they tell me they want to see in the store.”
Denise has more than two decades of retail and hospitality experience, including 15 years in retail management with Kmart, Goody’s, and Macy’s. She joined Lenbrook 18 years ago as a server in The Grill, where she also helped coordinate private parties and special events. Denise’s talents led her through several roles in Dining before she eventually became supervisor of the Convenience Store.
Her knack for creating a hospitable atmosphere is seen in everything from the merchandise mix to the seasonal displays. She works closely with vendors, reviewing catalogs, and identifying items she knows residents will appreciate. Popular purchases include jewelry, lotions and soaps, handbags, picture frames, and gifts for grandchildren.
The store has many visitors in the afternoons after Lenbrook’s dining venues close for lunch. Residents frequently stop in for prepared salads, protein bowls, beverages, and snacks as they return home from outings or appointments. Those grab-and-go offerings are difficult to keep in stock.
“Ice cream sells faster than anything,” Denise shared. “Candy and other treats go quickly, too. If something is popular, I have to stay on top of it.”
Beyond managing inventory, Denise brings a sense of energy and excitement to the shopping experience. Her retail background taught her the importance of presentation and promotion.
“One thing I learned in retail is that if you have balloons outside your door, people are going to come in because they want to know what’s going on,” she said. “It’s up to me to market the store and make it inviting.”
Denise also indulges her love of event planning and design at Lenbrook by assisting the dining department on occasion with special event decor and creative touches to enhance residents’ experiences. Denise has an eye for detail and a passion for making people feel special, which is evident in the care and thought she puts into everything she does.
“I love the versatility of my job,” Denise said. “I love serving our residents and finding ways to make their day a little easier and a little happier.”