unleashing
national impact
igniting local
transformation
When you step into The Face Place, an aesthetic clinic in the Garden District of Baton Rouge, everything feels meticulously crafted. The harmonious blend of décor and technology, from the inviting area rug in the lobby to the state-of-the-art salt facial machine, gives the impression that Laura Nichols must have replicated a design from a high-end magazine. However, every detail was carefully curated by Laura herself, reflecting her unique vision and dedication.
But before she could bring her vision to reality, Laura faced challenges when it came to designing customer experiences and managing the construction budgets essential for her business's grand opening. Realizing she needed expert assistance, Laura turned to the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC) at LSU.
"Understanding the financial landscape as a small business owner is essential. Once you commit, you need to be confident in your decisions. The LSBDC helped me feel secure in my choices."
The LSBDC provided invaluable support in estimating costs and organizing expenses, giving Laura the financial clarity and confidence she needed to proceed with her plans. "Understanding the financial landscape as a small business owner is essential," Laura reflects. "Once you commit, you need to be confident in your decisions. The LSBDC helped me feel secure in my choices." The support from the LSBDC not only helped Laura realize her dream of opening The Face Place but also alleviated much of the stress and uncertainty that typically accompanies starting a new venture. With their assistance, Laura was able to focus on delivering exceptional services and creating a captivating atmosphere for her clientele.
With a solid understanding of her financials, Laura was able to open her spa smoothly, ensuring that every aspect of the business was under control. The Face Place is a testament to Laura's unwavering commitment to excellence. Within just a few months of opening, the spa had to expand its staff to accommodate the growing number of loyal customers, drawn by the impeccable attention to detail in every aspect of their experience.
Carrie Harrington began her baking journey in the cozy confines of her kitchen in Woodworth, LA. What started as a cottage bakery making goodies for friends and family quickly grew into a beloved part of the central Louisiana community. The catalyst for this transformation was her passion for creating delicious treats and her dedication to her craft. The bakery started with birthday cakes for her daughter, and word of her delicious creations spread like wildfire, so she decided to transition into a bakery. The road from a home kitchen to a full-fledged bakery was challenging. Carrie needed a solid business plan, accurate financial projections, and a comprehensive marketing strategy to make her dream a reality. This is where Evelyn Jones, LSBDC at LSU Alexandria business consultant, played a crucial role.
"My experience with the LSUA SBDC was absolutely amazing and so informative. Not only was the consultant encouraging, but she was super knowledgeable and helped me walk through so many things that could have been overwhelming. I recommend that everyone seek the help of the SBDC in the beginning stages of their business."
"My experience with the LSUA SBDC was absolutely amazing and so informative," Carrie recalls. "Not only was the consultant encouraging, but she was super knowledgeable and helped me walk through so many things that could have been overwhelming. I recommend that everyone seek the help of the SBDC in the beginning stages of their business."
With the LSBDC's help, Carrie developed a robust business plan outlining Sweet Delta Bakery's vision and goals. They provided detailed financial projections to ensure the business's viability and sustainability. The LSBDC also assisted in creating a marketing plan and provided access to market research, helping Carrie understand her customer base and market her unique offerings effectively. "Working with Carrie was a great experience." Evelyn shares, "She was very organized and eager to plan out as many details as possible to get her business up and running efficiently. Her connection in her community is obvious, and her work ethic is amazing."
Today, the Sweet Delta Bakery not only serves a variety of pastries, cookies, brownies, dog treats and their famous "cruffins", but also Louisiana roasted coffees and specialty lemonades. Beyond their amazing treats, it's also for its fun and unique atmosphere. The names of the products pay tribute to the local community, adding a personal touch that customers love. The bakery's special Christmas tins, filled with festive goodies, are now sold all over the country, bringing a taste of Woodworth, LA, to homes nationwide.
Marc Delery, the owner and operator of Crown Car Wash & Oil Change, recognized a demand for a one-stop car care service in the bustling community of Slidell, Louisiana, and rose to meet it with his state-of-the-art full-tunnel wash and onsite oil change services. However, starting a small business is an overwhelming endeavor.
"We are truly grateful we were referred to Mr. Wayne Ricks at the SELU SBDC office as he was integral in helping us transform our vision and business plan into reality. Mr. Ricks' guidance and support were invaluable as he ensured we were educated, prepared, and confident when approaching lenders throughout the SBA application process."
Marc Delery needed guidance to turn his vision into a successful business. He found that support in Wayne Ricks, the Interim Director of the LSBDC at Southeastern Louisiana University. Marc shares his gratitude: "We are truly grateful we were referred to Mr. Wayne Ricks at the SELU SBDC office as he was integral in helping us transform our vision and business plan into reality. Mr. Ricks' guidance and support were invaluable as he ensured we were educated, prepared, and confident when approaching lenders throughout the SBA application process."
Today, Crown Car Wash & Oil Change is a shining example of how local businesses can thrive with the right guidance and resources. Marc Delery's commitment to the Slidell community and his dedication to providing top-notch service has firmly established Crown Car Wash & Oil Change as a vital part of the local business landscape.
