Like many Napa Valley high school seniors who want to spread their wings and leave town, Allison Hallum wanted to explore what life outside of Napa was like. That was ten years ago, and now Hallum has moved back. After graduating from Sonoma State University she met her husband, Spencer, on a golf course in Marin County. Six weeks later he left for boot camp in the United States Marine Corps. Hallum went to work for her family’s lumber business in sales and marketing while maintaining a long distance relationship with Spencer. Two years ago the couple tied the knot in her parents’ beautiful backyard. Spencer finished his active duty requirements, and the newlyweds were ready to settle down. Earlier this year, Hallum’s father, Rick Zaslove, invited her join the other family business, Eiko’s Restaurant. “It is totally different from the lumber business,” she said. “Though I’m still learning about the restaurant, I love it. It’s like planning a big party seven days a week. My favorite part of Eiko’s is the atmosphere. The food is phenomenal and we have superior drinks.” Hallum said one of her goals is to add to the resurgence of Downtown Napa’s nightlife. She added Thursday and Friday night DJs. “Growing up in Napa, there weren’t enough choices for going out on the weekends,” she said. “We need variety. I want to give Napa a nightlife that caters to young industry professionals living in the Valley. Choices have opened up in Downtown and I’m excited that Eiko’s is on the forefront of the new ‘West End.’” Working for the family business is a welcoming opportunity for Hallum. “I like being part of the family business,” she added. “We are a close family, and it’s rewarding working with Mom and Dad. Everything came together at the right time to make this happen.” When she is not working at Eiko’s, Hallum and her husband continue to enjoy golf. “I didn’t realize how much I had missed Napa until I came back,” said Hallum. “It’s great to call Napa home again.” S E P T E M B E R / O C TO B E R 2 0 1 3 15 Get to know… Allison Hallum General Manager, Eiko’s advertorial feature
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