Taking the reins of an already successful family business is both exciting and challenging. When Randi James and her husband Scott took over her family’s dental lab, they had innovative ideas for the future of the business. To achieve their goals, they needed the right team of experts and advisors to help transform those ideas from the drawing board to reality.
Advancing Technology Leads to Advanced Patient Care
Renstrom Dental Studio is a full-service dental lab in Lino Lakes, MN. They work with dental specialists to create implants, orthodontics, dentures — just about anything their customers need to make their smiles the best they can be. For over 50 years, the company has been family-owned and has worked with dentists in Minneapolis-St. Paul and across the nation. As technology advanced, so did the lab’s capabilities. Randi and Scott wanted to harness technology that would improve the products provided to patients.
Blair Oklobzija, Market President from the 21st Century Bank lending team, began working with the couple when they took their first steps as business owners.
“Renstrom Dental has been family-owned for several generations. They were going through the transition of changing ownership and modernizing the business,” said Blair. “Our first conversations were about setting them up for success in the future.”
Blair Oklobzija, Market President, 21st Century Bank
The Importance of Our Customer Service Promise
Randi and Scott knew their future would be built on the advanced technology they had been using with their current customers. Between 3D imaging, more accurate modeling and the ability to construct products using digital files rather than physical molds of the patient’s teeth – the new products were immensely popular with their clients. Today, the additional manufacturing space allows the lab to take on more clients and produce better products.
Modern communication gave Renstrom Dental Studio the opportunity to serve clients anywhere in the country. However, Randi and Scott still wanted a new location dedicated to the community where they live and work. The office space of Renstrom Dental Studio has large meeting spaces where they can host professional seminars on their work as a full-service dental lab. They have also invited organizations within the Lino Lakes area to hold meetings or gatherings in their conference center. The pair said their ability to share their building makes the family feel more connected to their community.
21st Century Bank became the home for Renstrom Dental Studio’s business banking and SBA loan – but what they appreciate the most is the unmatched level of customer service.
The personal time and attention the owners received from their banking team pushed them across the finish line as they pursued their business goals. With a focus on shared values and priorities, a community bank was the perfect partner for a community-focused family business.

