A Diamond in the Rough Cleaning Service, Indian Trail

When Nina Emory lost her job more than 10 years ago, she vowed never to work for someone else again. So, drawing on a background in business management, she found a bucket, bought a few cleaning supplies, and set to work building her own business. Now, she employs a full crew of bonded and insured cleaners who have served more than 500 clients under the name of A Diamond in the Rough Cleaning Service.

Just as polishing can reveal a diamond's sparkle, the technicians' customized cleanings aim to reveal a space's distinct personality. For residential and commercial cleanings, they carefully employ nontoxic cleaners, as well as cloths, mops, and dusters that are sanitized before storage to avoid cross-contamination. Clients can also solicit a tech for a gutter or window cleaning.