Ingredients for a Best Place to Work: Recognition is important at Black Forest Ltd. (asi/40620). After all, it’s baked into the company’s offerings of recognition jewelry. The robust recognition platform that the company operates for distributors is also used internally, and has a feature where both managers and peers can reward team members with points. The points can be used to redeem jewelry and name-brand items, not to mention the loyalty and good feelings it engenders. “We have a positive work culture,” says Michael Jordal, sales account executive, “with management that appreciates our need for work-life balance where recognition and appreciation for our efforts are shown.”

Top Benefits & Perks: Getting ready to propose? If you work at Black Forest, you’re at the right place. Employees are able to have their jewelry made in-house at cost. Repairs, resizings and cleanings are available to employees at cost as well. In addition, the company offers flexibility and a dog-friendly office.