Testimonials
Sunnyside Up can help you design your ideal culture. While Shelly was CEO of Fire Engine RED, she received hundreds of heartfelt notes from employees who felt valued and inspired. Explore the highlights by category below.
“Thank you for creating a safe, supportive work environment where I feel truly valued and heard.”
“I feel incredibly lucky to work for someone who truly cares about their employees enough to say, ‘Do what you need to do.’ I’m still processing everything, but it’s comforting to know that the people around me — both in spirit and in presence — share those same values.”
“Thank you for your generosity, especially while working so hard to balance the company’s short and long-term needs.”
“I feel incredibly lucky to work for a company with such an amazing culture and the best team anyone could hope for. We’re more like a family than co-workers — and our clients are just as much a part of that family.”
“The culture you’ve fostered is the best I’ve ever experienced, and I’m so grateful to be a part of it. I’ve never once felt like ‘just an employee’ with you, and I genuinely enjoy every interaction with my colleagues.”
“As I watch all the camaraderie in the i_voted channel, I can’t help but think how incredible you are at keeping our virtual team connected. Even after all these years, I truly feel in touch with everyone — including those I haven’t met in person — and it reminds me how valuable these interactive chats are. They help build a more cohesive, happy, positive, and productive team. Thank you for always thinking of us and for making every new experience in this virtual environment so unique!”
“It’s always an honor to be offered meaningful and exciting work, but it’s especially gratifying to know I’m joining a fantastic work culture. Everyone I’ve spoken with over the past two weeks has raved about the incredible place you’ve built.”
“The people at Fire Engine RED make every day fun, adventurous, challenging, rewarding, and simply a great place to be.”
“Thank you for building a company that is based on strong values and genuine appreciation for its team members. I just learned that a long-time teacher at our sons’ daycare — who’d been there for 10 years — was let go without warning or explanation after being out on medical leave. Despite having a doctor’s order not to work, undergoing surgery, and being assured by her boss that her job would be waiting, she was told her position was no longer available. Just like that. It made me realize how grateful I am to work for a company where I know we’d never face that kind of treatment. That security and respect come from you and the culture you’ve created. Thank you for giving me peace of mind, knowing that if we ever face a difficult situation, we’d be treated with compassion and dignity.”
“Just last night, I was talking with a job applicant who asked me what I appreciate most about Fire Engine RED. I told her how I had stalked the Fire Engine RED job site for over a year, waiting for the right opportunity. During that time, I wondered whether the company’s actual culture would live up to my expectations. I went on to say that the culture at Fire Engine RED has exceeded my expectations in ways I never could have imagined. The honest, transparent way things are done here is both wonderful and refreshing. I feel confident that when I do great work, it’s noticed and rewarded. And I know that if leadership says something will happen, it truly does. Thank you again for leading a company and a culture that I’m both proud and happy to be part of.”
“Thank you for allowing me to work for such an amazing company, with an outstanding team and incredible clients. I truly feel like I’ve found both a family and a home here.”
“Thank you for all your concern and support for the team. Messages like this, and the way you treat us like family, truly highlight what makes Fire Engine RED such an unusually fantastic company.”
"What you’ve created is incredible AND unique. You have made elections (and things like health and retirement education) a movement. It’s amazing how Fire Engine RED can feel like a community and not just a company - and we’re VIRTUAL! I’m proud to be a part of a company that actually has a SOUL."
“It never fails to impress and astound me how quickly people in this company are able to come together to accomplish something. Awe-inspiring every time.”
“It feels like I’ve finally found my work family.”
“Thank you for having the vision to create a virtual workplace! Who would have thought that, more than 13 years later, we’d be in the middle of a pandemic and already have an experienced, dedicated team seasoned in virtually everything? Your vision not only built but has sustained this 100% virtual company through both ups and downs, and I sincerely thank you for that. Your thoughtfulness in researching, planning, and sharing information is so appreciated.”
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for creating such an unparalleled organization. It’s been an incredible whirlwind over the past four years, and I can honestly say this has been one of the best experiences of my career.”
“You’ve created the absolute best company to be part of. I’m so grateful to have found my ‘home’ with Fire Engine RED. Thank you 1,001 times over!”
“You and Fire Engine RED have been the best company I’ve ever worked for when it comes to promoting civic participation. Thank you for your commitment in this area — it truly means a lot to me.”
“Thank you for the salary increase - it was a pleasant surprise and I'm very grateful. Being part of a great team makes my days enjoyable, and I'm excited to see what's in store as we expand. Thank you again for everything you do to make Fire Engine RED a wonderful "place" to work!”
"I never worked for a company with as good a vacation and sick-day policy as Fire Engine RED."
“I just received word of my salary increase and wanted to say thank you! You’ve been so generous from the very start, and I’m incredibly grateful to be part of this company. FER has completely changed my life, and even after a year, I still find myself wondering how I got so lucky to end up here. I’m looking forward to many more years with the company.”
"Hot damn, I love this company! It’s fantastic how eager you are to recognize and reward us for working in such a fun environment. I truly love my job for so many reasons, but above all, because we’re free to be as creative as we want — and we’re rewarded for it. So, thanks for hiring me, for paying me to be creative, and for making Fire Engine RED such a fun place to work!”
“This is the first company I’ve worked for where the time-off policy truly reflects how employees deserve to be treated — like adults.”
“The company’s time-off policy is an outstanding benefit that more organizations should adopt. It treats employees like adults and acknowledges their ability to balance their work responsibilities with their personal lives.”
“If you’re ever having a bad day, give me a call — I’d love to share all the wonderful things my family has been able to enjoy because of this job.”
“Working at Fire Engine RED has allowed me to be present — both physically and emotionally — for my kids during the most important time of their lives. It’s given me the chance to teach them about work ethic, professionalism, and making wise choices, while also providing them with a healthy, happy, and safe home environment. That’s the incredible legacy you’ve created for the next generation. Thank you for continuing to invest in me, my family, and the entire Fire Engine RED team.”
“Being at Fire Engine RED has been the highlight of my career. Just last week, my wife and I were talking about how my time at FER has made such a positive impact on our family. I’m able to spend so much more time with our kids, and the flexible schedule lets us take quick trips during the school year and longer vacations in the summer.”
“I just wanted to take a moment to let you know how much I’ve appreciated these 13 wonderful years. I can’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done for me and my family.”
“The company's flexible time off policy has made a huge difference. It’s truly a quality-of-life benefit. I feel so much less stressed knowing that if something comes up in my life, I can handle it without fearing for my job.”
“I love working for a company that goes above and beyond to support its employees through everything life throws our way — myself included!”
“Thank you for being absolutely awesome! You have no idea how much stress FER lifts off my shoulders when life throws curveballs like this. I love being a REDhead — in case my almost nine years here haven’t already made that clear. 😊”
“I just wanted to thank you a thousand times over for giving me extra time each week to study for the LSAT. I’m grateful every day that you and the team are in my life — you’re truly a blessing."
“Thank you for being so incredibly supportive of me and the entire team during this chaotic time. When everything first began, I honestly didn’t think it would be a big deal or have much impact on my life. But you — with your sixth sense — somehow knew what was coming. I’m grateful every single day to be working at Fire Engine RED, knowing you’ve given us the flexibility to handle life while trusting us to get our work done. Thank you for anticipating what we all needed, even before we realized it ourselves.”
“I just wanted to let you know how grateful I am to work for Fire Engine RED. The ED time has been a great fit for my family. You are so appreciated!”
“I’ve found our out time and work hours to be incredibly flexible and supportive of family-life balance. It’s rare to find a company with such an understanding ‘life happens’ policy, where everyone truly stands behind you and offers support when unexpected events arise.”
“I really appreciate your stance on mental health time. As someone who has experienced anxiety and depressive episodes in the past, I’ve often felt uncomfortable taking time off for mental health. Most employers don’t understand how deeply these issues can affect us. So once again, thank you for being such a progressive and wonderful boss.”
“Thank you so much for this. Depression runs deep in my family, and it’s so painful when people feel isolated. What you’re doing is truly wonderful.”
“I’m back from my family leave and wanted to say a huge thank you for allowing me to spend so much time with our newborn. The weeks we had together as a family were truly invaluable. I’m incredibly grateful for the company's generous family leave policy — it’s such an amazing benefit!”
“Thank you so much for Summer Fridays! I had no idea how much an extra 90 minutes could improve my quality of life. Being able to beat Friday afternoon traffic has motivated me to get out and enjoy my weekends so much more than if I had to deal with the usual weekend rush.”
“Just wanted to thank you x10000 for the extra time to practice for my test once a week. I thank god almost every day for putting you all in my life, because you are truly a blessing (along with the rest of the team). This is the last stride for the test, and I can't thank you enough for your support.”
“A couple of weeks ago, my mom was hospitalized with a serious virus. I was so grateful for the flexibility to be there for my family while still staying connected and getting some work done. It meant so much not having to worry about missing work while taking care of my mom.”
“This morning, I had the chance to volunteer at the middle school and talk to 8th graders about the importance of reading and writing in my everyday work life. Thank you for allowing us to volunteer during the workday. I even received a certificate and some cookies as a thank-you — what a fantastic experience!”
“Thank you for giving us the flexibility to go out and help others! For about six months now, I’ve been volunteering with a comfort dog through my church, visiting local nursing homes, hospitals, and schools. It’s been amazing to have the freedom to volunteer, especially since the comfort dog team always needs more daytime help. I usually sign up for one 2-3 hour outing each week and make up the time in the evenings. I’m so grateful to work for a company that supports this kind of balance.”
“Thank you for allowing us to volunteer during the work day! I’ve absolutely loved spending time at [name of child]’s school, helping with the play production and photographing all the performers. My favorite part has been getting a glimpse into the daily life there and watching [my daughter] interact with her peers. I had such a blast and feel incredibly blessed. Thank you so much for this wonderful benefit."
“I just got word that the county scheduled my mom’s vaccine — what a relief! It’s even on Monday at the same time as my dad’s. Thank you so much for all your help along the way. My parents wanted to make sure I passed along their thanks to you as well!”
“I started donating early. Decluttered my freezer by donating 400 oz to The Milk Bank 🙂 Thanks for giving us time to take care of personal business.”
“I just wanted to thank you for providing a half day to team members. Being in the path of totality makes today truly special and unique. I feel honored to work for a company so deeply invested in its people. 😊”
“I truly appreciate being able to take time for doctor’s appointments or to recover from illness. It shows that you value us not just as employees, but as people. It feels good to be valued.”
“Flex time is an incredible benefit, and it motivates me to give extra time and effort to the company because I truly appreciate the flexibility.”
“Thank you so much for the beautiful flowers — they truly brightened my day! It’s comforting to know my Fire Engine RED family is here for me. Your thoughtfulness means so much during this difficult time.”
“What you’ve built here is truly unique and amazing, and I’m grateful to be part of it. I remember past times when I felt like I was misleading my teams because the culture I presented didn’t match the reality of senior leadership.”
“Fire Engine RED’s time-off policy is a thousand times better than what I had before.”
“I wanted to thank you for the incredibly generous gift of the iPad. Even though I didn’t have a direct role in achieving this goal, it means so much that you chose to let the whole team share in the reward. I’m truly proud to be part of this amazing company.”
“Your generosity toward our family is truly astounding, though not at all surprising. You are such a kind soul. Thank you so much for this gift. We deeply appreciate it.”
“You’ve been so kind and generous throughout this entire internship, and I’m truly grateful for everything you’ve given me.”
“I wanted to thank you for paying for my lunch with [names of team members]. I had a fantastic time. The other day, I came across a tweet that really resonated with me, and I couldn’t help but think of that again today: ‘People are your secret sauce.’ I absolutely feel that way after our lunch. Thanks for everything you do for all of us!”
“I wanted to send you a quick note to express my appreciation for the generous bonus. It was such a wonderful surprise, and it feels incredible to receive that kind of recognition. It meant so much to me to see our team acknowledged. The highlight of my week was sharing the news with [name of team members] — I thought you’d enjoy hearing about the amazing reactions all around! Both [name of team members] were completely speechless at first, and once the shock wore off, they couldn’t stop expressing their gratitude. [Name of team member] was also blown away when I shared the news — she was absolutely over the moon.”
“Thank you so much for the gift certificate! It arrived in the mail today, and it felt like I’d won a contest — what a wonderful surprise! I truly appreciate your thoughtfulness and generosity.”
“It is amazing to me that I'm lucky enough to work here with a boss who cares so much for her people.”
“I just want to say how thankful I am to work for this company! I feel so blessed to be part of a place where team members are truly appreciated — it makes my heart so happy. You’re awesome, and thank you for caring so much about your employees!”
“I just wanted to say thank you for taking our retirement planning so seriously. I really appreciate that it’s a priority for the company to help set employees up for retirement as best as possible. It blew me away to learn that Fire Engine RED might help with what feels like such an overwhelming process. Thank you so much for all the work you’re doing for us — not just in terms of retirement, but in so many other ways as well.”
"I wanted to write and say thank you for your kind support and patience last week. Very deeply appreciated. This was the first major loss I had experienced. When I broke out into uncontrollable tears, I knew something serious was underway."
“I just have to say — with everything happening today and all the hurricane issues last week, I can’t imagine a better place to work. I’m so grateful for how supportive my team has been, and your reaching out to me directly means everything to me. Thank you for creating a company that is so accommodating and supportive.”
“I just wanted to thank you for your support of DACA, and to know that we have a team supporting us, too. It’s incredible how you’ve welcomed us and made Fire Engine RED a safe haven.”
“I finally had a chance to open my computer, and what an amazing message to wake up to! Thank you for thinking of me. I also wanted to share how incredible it feels to be part of my team. Everyone I’ve spoken with has been so supportive and kind. It was such a relief to go to the ER without worrying whether my insurance would cover it. Thank you for making that a priority at Fire Engine RED — I truly appreciate it!”
“I really appreciate working for a company that takes the time and care to send us that kind of message. So often, it’s taken for granted that people will ask for help if they need it, but that’s not always the case. Sometimes, all someone needs is a gentle nudge or a reminder that seeking help is okay and encouraged.”
“I’ll admit that all of this feels a bit overwhelming right now, but it’s reassuring to know you’re there with a comprehensive plan to ensure every one of us has the best information and support. Thank you for everything you do!”
“I’m sending you kisses — thank you for your amazing support of [name of team member]!”
“I just wanted to say a huge thank you for the wonderful weekend away for our team meeting. I feel incredibly motivated after spending time together, and the breakout sessions truly helped advance several projects. You treated us to fantastic food, amazing restaurants, and a fabulous hotel, and I want you to know how much I appreciate it. Thank you especially for all the hard work you put into planning every detail and making such excellent choices.”
“I’m proud to work for someone — and alongside others — who genuinely care about everyone, not just the majority. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.”
“WOW! Your donation pushed me just over my goal, and I can’t tell you how much I appreciate it.”
“Thank you for your encouraging IMs yesterday and for supporting my promotion. I’m very excited to step into this new role! I truly appreciate working for a company that gives team members the chance to pursue their interests and grow professionally. You’ve often talked about these kinds of opportunities since I joined the team, and I’m proud to be an example of what’s possible at Fire Engine RED.”
“I want you to know how truly grateful I am — not only for the opportunities you've given me, but for how you constantly challenge me while giving me the confidence to become a better person, team member, and even husband.”
“Thank you for continuing to invest in me. You’ve truly helped change my life this year!”
“I’d like to thank you for my promotion. Your confidence in my abilities means so much to me. I’m looking forward to the new challenges and opportunities for growth that this position will bring. I’m truly grateful and will do my best to exceed your expectations.”
“I’m writing just to say thank you for planning and executing such an energizing and productive team meeting. Over the past two days, I’ve been swimming in exciting new ideas and opportunities for improvement, learning, and team member training. Is it possible to feel both exhausted and deeply energized at the same time? If so, that’s exactly how I feel.”
“Thank you so much for the opportunity to be part of this exceptional company you’ve built. The team meeting was truly amazing — I learned so much about our current objectives, challenges, culture, and, most importantly, the incredible people here. I enjoyed our conversation and was glad to discover that we share many of the same ideals.”
“Over the past few months, I’ve not only grown personally through my work accomplishments, but I’ve also learned what it means to grow as a team member. I couldn’t have done it without the support and guidance of my colleagues. Since starting as an intern, I’ve learned more than I have in years. This company is fueled by the passion and dedication of everyone here — it’s contagious and shines through in each individual. To be honest, I believe that spirit comes from having such a dedicated leader at the helm.”
“We are all so thankful for everything this great company has given us and the opportunity to grow as individuals.”
“For years, I dreamed about working for Fire Engine RED — I just never thought it would actually happen. I love everything about this opportunity: the work I do, the people I work with, and the freedom to work from anywhere. But most of all, I’m grateful to be part of a company I’m truly passionate about.”
“I wanted to join the ranks of those saying THANK YOU for our benefits and for taking such good care of us!”
“I love being a REDhead — in case my almost nine years here haven’t already made that clear. 😊”
“I wanted to thank you for your unwavering commitment to all of us at Fire Engine RED. I’m thankful for you every single day.”
“Hot damn, I love this company! It’s fantastic how eager you are to recognize and reward us for working in such a fun environment. I truly love my job for so many reasons, but above all, because we’re free to be as creative as we want — and we’re rewarded for it. So, thanks for hiring me, for paying me to be creative, and for making FER such a fun place to work!”
“I can’t express enough how grateful I am for all the extra things you do to make this company an even better place to work.”
“I appreciate the open and transparent way you run Fire Engine RED.”
"Thank you for the opportunity to work with Fire Engine RED. It was truly an honor to be a 'Red Head'. I am proud to work for a woman-owned software company with such a large percentage of female employees."
“I truly appreciate the recognition at today’s company meeting — it made me feel so valued. It’s been a fantastic first 30 days, and [cue my terrible singing voice] ‘we’ve only just begun…’”
“Sometimes I reflect on how, in just seven years, I’ve worked with all of you through two moves, getting engaged and married, buying a house, two pregnancies, and so much more. I feel incredibly grateful to have had Fire Engine RED as a constant in my life.”
“Thank you for giving me the chance to do work I love every single day. I’m truly proud to be part of Fire Engine RED.”
“Just think… your ‘little Engine that could’ is only a few months away from becoming a teenager! It’s still so much fun to be part of such a dynamic team. Thanks for keeping me around!”
“It's already my lock screen image. That is just too awesome. I am finally a superhero!!! Thanks, Shelly! This made my day.”
“THANK YOU for taking good care of me here! It wasn't necessary because I really love this job, but I very much appreciated it!”
“I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for this incredible opportunity. I feel truly blessed to be part of a company that encourages its employees to grow, improve, and recognize hard work and dedication. These past seven years have been wonderful, and I look forward to many more to come.”
“I just wanted to take a moment to let you know how much I’ve appreciated these 13 wonderful years. I can’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done for me and my family.”
“Thank you for being absolutely awesome! You have no idea how much stress FER lifts off my shoulders when life throws curveballs like this.”
“I love being a REDhead — in case my almost nine years here haven’t already made that clear.”
“Thank you for acknowledging something so profoundly complex — it really means so much to me. It truly moved me to tears. I’ve been struggling with postpartum depression, and I’m actively seeking treatment and doing my best to manage everything that comes with it, but it’s an incredibly tough place to be at times.”
“I have nothing but the highest praise for the people I work with here. I was genuinely amazed by the sheer talent gathered at the recent team meeting. Fire Engine RED is by far the best place I’ve worked as a creative and technologist — and that’s entirely thanks to the incredible team around me.”
“I just wanted to say that you are very much appreciated. I know there are tons of things you do for your company and employees, many things we don't even know about, to keep us going well. So thanks for all that you do.”
“I just wanted to thank you for yesterday’s pet meet and greet. My daughters had such a wonderful time — they were talking about donkeys and horses all night, and it’s carried over into today. The first thing my younger daughter said this morning was, ‘Shelly is the most nicest person.’ I just wanted you to know how much you’re appreciated, as always!”
“Thank you for the voicemail — it truly made my day. I’ve listened to it several times! I wanted to send a quick note to thank you for continuing to let me grow professionally within the company. I’m as passionate as ever about our future and excited for all the opportunities ahead.”
“Thank you so much for the promotion! I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the recognition and this incredible opportunity. From my very first day here, I’ve felt like I was in the right place, and this is truly the icing on the cake. Thanks for making Fire Engine RED such a great place to work!”
“We had so much fun at our pizza party last week. Thank you for having us do that. It is crazy how seldom we see each other when we all live so close together! We had such a good time, and it was a much-needed break last week. I wanted to make sure you knew how much we all enjoyed spending some time together.”
“Tonight, while putting my son to bed, he said, ‘I like it when you’re here when I come home from school. Even if you’re on a call, I still get a hug.’ So… thanks for that! I can’t imagine anything I’d rather hear from my kids.”
“We’re at the airport waiting for our flight now, and I just wanted to say how incredible this year has been. Many, many thanks from all of us — but especially from me. I can’t imagine another opportunity like this, and I’ll always be grateful.”
“Thank you so much for the salary increase. I’m grateful to be part of such an awesome team and company. I’m excited about all the great things we’re accomplishing now and all that we’ll achieve in the future.”
“Thank you so much! I’m honestly at a loss for words. I deeply appreciate this company and the amazing people I’m fortunate to work with.”
“Thank you so much — being recognized and appreciated by you and Fire Engine RED means more than you can imagine.”
“Wow — I’m so thrilled to share that I’ve now completed three years at Fire Engine RED! I’m amazed at how quickly the time has flown by and how natural and fulfilling this work feels. It’s incredible how connected I feel to the team and how smoothly this virtual company operates. I’m eager, optimistic, and excited for the next three years together. Please know that I’m here for you and for Fire Engine RED — sincerely and FIRED UP!”
“Being acknowledged financially is a fantastic feeling! It also feels great to be part of a team that works hard and aims for success!”
“It’s my hope — and my plan — that FER will be my forever home.”
“I’m a liFER."
“I hope I’m still with FER when it’s time for me to retire!”
“I want to retire here if you let me!”
"6 years down — a lifetime to go! #FER4Life"
“You have such a knack for being witty, honest, and informative all at once — and without ever sounding pretentious.”
”You’ve sacrificed so much over the years, and that’s why I always say I have your back.”