As the Business Manager for Evantine Design for over 20 years, Dean Springman oversees the day-to-day operations of the company, from accounting, human resources, scheduling, and logistics, right down to managing the gardens and greenhouse. He also plans and designs events for select clients. Frankly, we’re not sure the man actually sleeps! But we’re not the only ones who have noticed his hard work and dedication. Recently, Dean made The List on Philadelphia Style Magazine!

So, if you haven’t met him yet, here’s your introduction to Dean Springman, the savvy Business Manager at Evantine Design:

Okay Dean, your favorite thing, talking about yourself! Tell us what you do at Evantine.

For the past 20 years, I have served as the Business Manager for Evantine Design. Of course, somewhere in those years I started working with corporate and non-profit clients on their events in a design capacity.

What are you known for professionally?

I would say I have a natural knack for details, follow-through and organization. Efficiency and well-honed logistics make me happy.

What three words would you like to hear your friends use when describing you?

Honest, amusing and helpful.

What’s the one problem you are best at solving for your clients/co-workers?

Getting and/or giving answers and solving problems.

Where were you working before you joined Evantine Design?

I worked as a purchasing director for The Rittenhouse, Philadelphia’s most prestigious hotel at the time. There wasn’t one thing that was purchased for the hotel that escaped my notice. I loved it.

Professionally, what are you most passionate about?

Oh, that’s easy. Getting it right.

Flipping that around, what are you most passionate about personally?

Hunting for and collecting antiques. Whenever possible, I look for advertising items, primarily from Philadelphia, such as food tins, bottles, crocks and jugs, tavern mugs, scales, anything that is signed Philadelphia. I also collect old iron frogs. But that’s not all. I also collect Kone Kartons from anywhere. They are basically milk-style cartons in the shape of cones.  They are from the 1930s-1940s.  I have them for apple cider, goat milk, regular milk, eggnog, root beer, pancake batter mix, you name it. Then, I need to look for furniture. Mostly to display all my wares! Cupboards, barrister book cases, jelly cupboards. I really love the warmth of natural stained wood. I guess you might say Americana items or farm country is my thing. Aren’t you glad you opened that can of worms?

When you’re not working a zillion hours, where can we find you?

Either at an antique show in upstate New York or Massachusetts, or at local Pennsylvania flea markets, or weeding in my garden.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Williamsport, Pennsylvania and left there to pursue the big city.

What’s your favorite guilty pleasure?

Without a doubt, ice cream and frozen yogurt! I could easily eat a pint every day all summer, but try not to.

If you had one, what is your favorite type of event to design?

Easy. Something that is simple, clean, and understated because it reflects my personality (I think).

What can’t you live without?

My glass of wine with dinner and a cup of jasmine tea every night before sleep. Simple things.

If you weren’t working at Evantine, what would you be doing?

Without a doubt, I would be traveling the world.

If someone peeked inside your desk drawer, what would they find?

Nothing that wasn’t purposeful, useful and easy to find.

If you had a favorite hangout spot in Philadelphia, where would it be?

My home. When you party every day for a living, being at home is the greatest pleasure.

What would someone be surprised to learn about you?

That I LOVE Old Standards and red wine. Preferably together.

That wasn’t so painful, now was it? Thanks Dean!