Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in events venue but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ali Epler, Owner and CEO of Diamond A Ranch Events, located in Lipan, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a modern countryside event venue in North Texas. We offer services for weddings, corporate events, and private parties, and we have onsite accommodations. Our primary customers are newly engaged couples who are planning to get married within one year.
Tell us about yourself
I have always had an entrepreneurial mindset and have always created business ideas. We bought our ranch and knew we wanted to turn it into something more than just a cattle ranch. We wanted to continue to let the masses enjoy such a special property. My biggest motivation each day is knowing that we are hosting a new family's "biggest day of their life" - every single weekend. This inspires me to keep our customer service perfect at all times and make sure that our amenities and facilities are in perfect order.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is receiving incredible feedback about our facilities. So much time and work goes into making the venue special, and so hearing people's feedback and moments of awe is very fulfilling.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I am a mom of two babies, and I created this business at the same time. So, time management has been my most difficult task. Finding a balance between shutting off my job and not letting it run into the late hours of the night or family time. It is also difficult to give up your weekends as a young family. Also, as a business owner in the service industry, you constantly feel pressure over your head to make sure everything is perfect while also fearing that moment of getting a late-night text that something major has gone wrong.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Research your industry in depth. Make real person connections to do some of the research so you can actually talk to people who are already in the industry. Don't just rely on the internet.
- Don't be afraid to do things differently. Just because everyone else in your industry does things a certain way doesn't mean it is the only way. Be unique and confident in your ideas and visions.
- Assume that if you are working an 8-5 pm job and planning to switch to your own business, you will be working a 24/7 job upon growing your new business. It takes a lot of time, and it is not easy to turn off at 5 pm.
You can connect with Ali Epler:
Website: https://diamondaranchevents.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diamondaranchevents
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diamondaranchevents
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