The right stuff | Woman-owned business: Wendy Newmeyer, President, Maine Balsam Fir Products

Wendy Newmeyer admits having no fear of failure. Thirty years ago, Newmeyer and her husband, Jack, moved from New Jersey to 100 acres in rural West Paris with a small savings, determined to live off the land. The couple lived in a trailer without electricity or running water, cutting down trees to sell to lumber companies.

Today, Newmeyer runs Maine Balsam Fir Products, turning balsam branches into aromatic pillows, draft stoppers and neck rolls for 5,200 clients. In the company&rsquo ...