An interview with Kelly Berenbaum

Where did you grow up? How long have you lived in the area? Tell us about your family.
I'm a Midwest native, originally from Indianapolis, Indiana. I moved to St. Petersburg nearly 30 years ago, where I raised my family and built a career in financial services.
 
Tell us about the events that led up to where you are now:
My professional background is in financial services, where I spent over 20 years at Raymond James headquarters in St. Petersburg. Throughout my time there, I held various leadership roles—leading software engineering teams, managing large-scale projects and acquisition integrations, and guiding product development and client experience initiatives. I also earned my MBA from the University of South Florida during that time.
In 2015, I became a Certified Financial Planner. After my youngest child left for college, I launched my own financial planning business, focusing on small business owners—particularly helping them prepare for succession or the sale of their companies. Through networking, I met several business owners in the construction industry. I admired their down-to-earth approach and the pride they took in creating beautiful spaces for their clients. It became clear that I wanted to do more than consult—I wanted to own and grow a business like theirs.
That led me to Copperleaf Cabinets, a business I purchased with the goal of building on its strong foundation and taking it to the next level.
 
What is your business and how/why did you start it?
I own Copperleaf Cabinets, a company specializing in kitchen and bathroom renovations using custom, all-wood cabinetry. We partner with an Amish manufacturer to provide top-tier craftsmanship and timeless quality.
Copperleaf was originally founded in 2015. My passion for kitchen design stems from personal experience—I built a custom home in downtown St. Petersburg and saw firsthand how the warmth and individuality of custom cabinetry can transform a home.
I chose to purchase this business for several reasons: the experienced team of carpenters who stayed on through the transition, the strong reputation established by the previous owners, and the exceptional quality of our cabinetry—something our clients consistently praise.
 
What makes your business unique?
Our custom cabinetry offers limitless choices in style, color, finish, and size—allowing us to tailor each project to a client’s unique vision. We take the time to truly listen and understand your goals for your home, then bring those ideas to life with premium products and expert craftsmanship.
Our process begins with an in-home design consultation where we discuss your goals, challenges, and design ideas. We then provide a comprehensive quote. Once the project is approved, materials typically take 10–12 weeks to arrive. From there, our skilled team completes installation—including countertops and backsplashes—within about a week, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily routine.
 
Given your business expertise and the nature of what you do, what advice would you give?
I’m passionate about helping homeowners create inviting, functional spaces where family and friends want to gather. Kitchens are the heart of the home, and thoughtful design makes a difference.
When planning a kitchen renovation, it's important to think beyond aesthetics and consider how the space functions for your daily routine. Custom cabinetry creates a beautiful foundation, but thoughtful features make the space truly work for you. Consider incorporating deep drawer storage for pots and pans, built-in coffee stations, or corner cabinet solutions like lazy Susans.
Working with a contractor who understands your lifestyle and can offer tailored solutions ensures a space that is both stunning and smartly designed.
 
What else should we know about you, your family, or your business?
Copperleaf Cabinets is locally owned and operated. All of our work is performed by our in-house team of expert craftsmen—trusted employees who take pride in creating stunning, custom kitchens that reflect each client’s individual style and needs.
 
Business contact information 
941-929-6216
info@copperleafcabinets.com