Mixture of Market Research and Grit Is Kasper’s Recipe for Success
For Lacey and Damon Redman, opening an indoor/outdoor sports training facility wasn’t just a business decision—it was the culmination of a lifelong dream. Growing up, both Lacey and Damon had a deep-rooted love for sports, and their passion only grew as their own children came along. When they realized they passed their love for sports down to their kids, the couple decided starting a facility where young athletes could hone their skills was the right path for their family. This led to the construction of a brand new building and opening of Redman Sports and Event Center in Dover in August 2024.
“The idea for this business has been in our hearts since childhood,” says Damon. “Both of us grew up playing sports, and it’s been a huge part of our lives. We always knew we wanted to give back to the community in a way that nurtures young athletes.” One day, watching their children exhibit the same fire and appreciation for sports, they made their decision. The Redmans knew they wanted to create a place where area youth could come together, train, and have fun. “We wanted to build a facility that not only helped kids sharpen their skills but also fostered a sense of belonging and community,” Lacey adds. “We prayed a lot about it, and faith has been the cornerstone of this entire journey. We knew we were going to face challenges, but our belief in the vision pushed us forward.” With that foundation, the Redmans set out to bring their dream to life, understanding the road would require a lot of hard work and sacrifice along with the support of their loved ones.
As they moved forward with their business, Lacey and Damon found the community’s excitement for the facility matched their own. “We decided to test the waters by posting a few things on Facebook to gauge interest,” Lacey explained. “The response was overwhelming. Our social media presence grew rapidly, and we hadn’t even fully launched. That was confirmation that there was a real need for this type of facility in our area.” Social media has become their most valuable marketing tool. This grassroots approach allowed them to spread awareness organically.
The Redmans appreciate the support they received from the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center at Arkansas Tech University. “Our advisor, Matt Lundy, has been invaluable,” says Damon. “The guidance, experience, and resources he’s provided have been life-changing for our business.” From checklists to operational advice, Lundy helped them navigate the complexities of starting a business. He gave us the blueprint for long-term success,” Lacey adds. “Everything from attendance tracking to financial algorithms. His advice on what works and what doesn’t, backed by real-life examples, was priceless.” The guidance they received from the ASBTDC gave the Redmans the tools to push forward and stay focused on the long-term vision of their facility.
Starting their own business has come with challenges, and the couple approached them with planning and persistence. “The biggest lesson for us has been that no one is going to do it for you,” Lacey says. “The level of independence and responsibility is far greater than we anticipated. Working for yourself is amazing, but it also means that everything is on your shoulders.” When asked what advice they would give to those considering starting their own business, Damon offered practical guidance. “Thoroughly research your market and competition. Validate your business idea with potential customers, and make sure you have a solid business plan,” he said. “Most importantly, seek guidance from mentors like the ASBTDC and other entrepreneurs.” Lacey agrees, adding that learning from both successful and failed business stories can provide invaluable insights. “Surround yourself with like-minded people and ask lots of questions,” she said. “This journey is going to be tough, but if you’re willing to put in the hard work, it will be worth it.”
As the Redmans continue to grow their business, they remain focused on their original goal: to provide a space where young athletes can develop their skills and foster a lifelong love of sports. The facility is equipped with batting cages, weights, and other equipment indoors. Event packages for children’s birthdays, private lessons for softball and baseball, and occasional skills camps are also offered. With the community behind them, faith guiding their steps, and the support of organizations like the ASBTDC, the future of Redman Sports and Event Center looks like a home run.
Visit Redman Sports and Event Center on Facebook.
At just 27 and 30 years of age, Jairo Zameza and Erika Nava (ATU alum) own and operate three businesses. The husband and wife team owns Airtech Heating and Cooling LLC, EZ Event Rentals LLC, and Erika Nava LLC.
It all started with Erika’s belief that her true purpose lay outside of pursuing a job in the field of the degrees she earned in Early Childhood Education and Spanish Education. Her pivotal moment came when she assisted a friend in studying for a real estate exam. After months of dedicated preparation, she ended up taking the exam herself to help motivate her friend and actually passed the test. This unexpected turn of events ignited Erika's passion for real estate. Over the past five years in real estate, Erika has achieved remarkable success. In fact, in 2023 she distinguished herself as a top producer and earned recognition as Quarterly Top Producer and was nominated for Realtor of the Year.
Airtech Heating and Cooling came about over time and through hard work. Jairo had been working at Airtech for years, getting to know the trade and the customers. Through all this, he had always thought of self-employment as the goal, but he never thought the opportunity would arise. After eight years of rising from helper, to installer, to lead, to service tech, and to service manager, the owner decided to offer Jairo a chance to buy the business. After many obstacles and rejections, a deal was made. “We couldn't be happier that we tried,” said Jairo.
The couple first came to the ASBTDC for assistance with the Airtech Heating and Cooling business purchase project. Their business consultant, Ronda Hawkins, performed financial analysis on the existing business, advised on financing options, and assisted with projections to ensure the business could support the purchase price.
EZ Event Rentals came to life alongside last April’s solar eclipse. The couple saw a high demand for portable bathrooms, so they purchased 16 units to make available to rent. Their first customer was the City of Dardanelle, which used their services for the whole weekend of the eclipse. They started looking at other rental companies in the area and saw that most did not offer tents. So, they bought out a local company that had commercial and industrial grade event tents. EZ Event Rentals now offers chairs, tables, chair covers, table covers, and tents along with their portable bathrooms. “We have been blessed to provide our services for several events such as weddings, birthday parties, baby showers, and other get-togethers. EZ Event Rentals is unique in the rental industry, because we offer more than the others. We do all the setup and take down to make it easy for our customers. Our name says it all,” remarked Erika.
Jairo and Erika came back to the ASBTDC for assistance with the EZ Event Rentals startup project to get marketing ideas and to ensure that everything they did was in compliance with the appropriate agencies. “The most helpful assistance we received was marketing advice and the information about starting a small business,” said Erika.
The couple agreed that the main reason they have all these businesses, plus their rental properties, has been through not wanting opportunities to slip by.
“None of these businesses were ever really planned. As the opportunities came, we saw a need and wanted to make sure we took these opportunities and filled those needs. We also want to let our generation and community know that if a bunch of kids from humble backgrounds can do it, they can too as long as they apply themselves and take a risk,” said Jairo.
“It’s not always easy, especially with a four-year-old child, but we are blessed to have a supportive village of family to help. Owning our businesses allows us to set our own hours and take off from work when we want, which helps make it all work,” said Erika.
When asked what advice they would give to someone interested in starting a business, they replied, “Always do your research, there’s so much to businesses that people don't think about when they start out that usually ends up breaking them. Always have a plan B. Being in business is risky, but there's no reason to walk a tightrope without a safety net. We all fail, it's part of life. But, the more you're prepared for it, the less painful the fall.”
Airtech Heating and Cooling LLC has locations in Dardanelle at 1825 State Highway 22 and at 1134 S. Rogers Street in Clarksville. Learn more about EZ Event Rentals at www.thateazy.com and Erika Nava, Realtor on Facebook.
In the heart of Clarksville, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee is in the air. A new retreat for coffee lovers has emerged. Kurt Miller opened Diamond Drip Coffee Co in December of 2023. With a welcoming atmosphere, locals savor more than just a cup of delicious coffee. Diamond Drip Coffee Co aims to brew connections and foster community spirit.
Kurt and his wife, Sondra, came to the ASBTDC in July of 2023 for assistance with a business plan, market research, and financial analysis. “These tools helped to point us in the right direction from a business perspective,” said Kurt.
Fantastic coffee, refuge, retreat, community; it’s fair to say that these words most describe the vision that is behind Diamond Drip Coffee Co. “This was a dream for me for a long time. I’ve always wanted a coffee shop, and we wanted to create an experience that goes beyond your typical coffee shop.” Although many great ideas start with a dream, making them a reality can be daunting. “If you have a dream, don’t hold back, you have to try. Don’t worry about the unknown, because what if you knock it out of the park?” encouraged Kurt. He also advises that new entrepreneurs “get a mentor, someone to keep you accountable, and moving forward.”
From the inception of his idea to careful planning and many hours spent perfecting the architectural design, Kurt's vision is displayed through every aspect of Diamond Drip Coffee Co. Steel cargo containers, once used for journeys across oceans, have been repurposed into a beautiful, elegantly designed building. This space could be used for a lot of different things but community and collaboration are what it was designed for, and Kurt nailed it.
Kurt and his team have put all they have into the coffee experience. Before opening last year, the team attended a coffee business conference to hone their skills and gather information about what is happening in the coffee industry. Diamond Drip Coffee Co uses quality ingredients, and they don’t skimp on flavors. They also offer wonderfully crafted baked goods and experiment regularly on new recipes and flavors. "We're passionate about experimenting with flavors while staying true to the essence of good coffee," explained a Diamond Drip employee.
We live in a fast-paced, virtually-connected world, which often leaves little room for genuine person-to-person connections. Kurt considered a smaller spot as land downtown came available, which would have greatly diminished the size and experience, but ultimately decided that the he wanted people to “slow down a bit and enjoy the space of community”. Today, Diamond Drip Coffee Co stands as a beacon; a place where strangers may become friends over a shared love of coffee and companionship.
With its commitment to quality, community, and creativity, this small business coffee shop is poised to become more than just a local meeting spot. It's set to become a cornerstone of the greater Clarksville community; a place where memories are made, stories are shared, and friendships forged, one cup at a time.
Diamond Drip Coffee Co is open Monday through Thursday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, they have extended hours of 6 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. They can be found at 206 West Cherry Street in Clarksville, on Facebook, and at Diamond Dripcoffeeco.square.site.
Machelle and Kevin Lee purchased the former Dover Supermarket building with a dream of making it into a place for folks to gather, eat, dance, and support their community. It has taken some time, but they have built such a place. “MAK Daddy’s is the perfect place for you and your family to come out and enjoy some good ole home-cooked food,” said Machelle.
Machelle came to the ASBTDC in March of 2021 for assistance with a business plan, market research, and financial analysis. She credits the ASBTDC’s market research as being the most helpful assistance in the early days. “The ASBTDC helped with the business aspect of things. I didn’t have a lot to go on, and the research helped me figure out the market and how to meet its needs.”
Their business did not pop up overnight; it has evolved in phases. At first, MAK Daddy’s Old Town Meet n Eat hosted outdoor events with live music on Friday and Saturday nights, while serving popcorn and ice cream. Next, came the indoor stage, dance floor, burgers and breakfast. The commercial kitchen opened in mid-August of this year with a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. In September, the buffet was added.
MAK Daddy’s Old Town Meet n Eat is much more than just a restaurant with live music. It is a town within itself. “We have an ice cream parlor with your favorite ice cream flavors and lots of toppings! We also have a coffee shop with several flavored syrups, both regular and sugar free. So, whether it’s an iced coffee, a latte, or a frappe, we can fix you up,” remarked Machelle.
The building also has an arcade (the schoolhouse in the town) for kids and those young at heart. The Town Hall holds a bounce house, and is available to rent for private parties. There is even a billiards room for pool enthusiasts.
When asked, “What’s next?” Machelle explained, “We are still working on the TV lounge for all the sports lovers. The bakery is under construction, which when open, will supply the restaurant with fresh baked goods! The opera house is halfway completed. It has a huge dance floor and stage for live bands. We hope to bring in comedy shows eventually, just like a mini Branson. The dinner saloon is also in the works for those wanting a drink with their meal. There is certainly something for everyone! Once fully completed, you will definitely feel like you are eating in the streets of MAK Daddy town.”
MAK Daddy’s Old Town Meet n Eat is located at 9733 Market Street in Dover. They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner Tuesdays through Thursdays from 6:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. A Sunday lunch buffet is open from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Live bands play on Friday and Saturday nights from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., and Karaoke is on Tuesday nights from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. The owners, Machelle and Kevin Lee, as well as their granddaughter Ava, personally invite everyone out for a fun, family friendly, good time!
Friends and business partners, Misty Willbanks and Stacy Drilling, started their entrepreneurial journey together in 2021 when they launched The Southern Sippery Mobile Bar.
Before landing on this venture, Misty worked with her Arkansas Tech University ASBTDC business consultant, Ronda Hawkins, on a different idea that didn’t materialize. But, when the mobile bar idea came along, things fell into place. “We recognized an opportunity. We saw a similar business in another state, and knew that there was not currently anything like it in Arkansas. So, we jumped,” said Misty. “The ASBTDC helped us prioritize the most immediate needs for a successful start.”
Working from their homes in Morrilton, Misty and Stacy set out with their repurposed, vintage horse trailer, lovingly named Jolene. The partners started booking events in October 2021. News of their traveling cocktail bar and bartending service spread. Since then, Southern Sippery Mobile Bar has been featured in the publications, Only in Arkansas and Say, “I Do” in 2022!
As their business grew, Misty and Stacy started searching for a space to hold their trailer and supplies. “We happened upon a garage with a building attached that had open space and a beautiful vaulted ceiling. A light bulb went off, and we thought we might be able to supplement our garage rental by renting out the space,” said Misty. The partners returned to the ASBTDC for advice on how to best finance the next phase of their business.
“It was an accidental business expansion. Since our first venture was in the event/wedding category, an event space was familiar and we already had many of the tools in place to move forward,” exclaimed Misty.
OrenWood Hall and Southern Social opened at 313 East Commerce in Morrilton in May. OrenWood Hall is available for special events, while Southern Social is a collaborative women’s co-working space inside OrenWood Hall.
When asked what the most helpful assistance the ASBTDC provided, Misty remarked, “Definitely anything to do with money! We are both creatives, and the ASBTDC's assistance with numbers and projections have been a huge help.”
As for the entrepreneurial journey, Misty said, “It's harder than it looks! You have to be able to sacrifice your time, energy, money, family and mental health- ha! But, it's also so rewarding to know that we built this business from scratch, and the support from our community and state has been overwhelming.”
Learn more about Southern Sippery Mobile Bar at https://www.southernsippery.com/ and OrenWood Hall/Southern Social at https://www.orenwoodhall.com/.
Husband and wife team, Courtney and Tyler Haisty, realized their dream of starting
their own business when they opened The Floral Court in January.
Both alumni of Arkansas Tech University, Courtney received her bachelor’s degree in psychology, and Tyler received his bachelor’s degree in business. “My business degree from ATU has helped in so many ways with the business. If I could point to one thing specifically, it would be the project we did in my Money & Banking class with an ASBTDC client.” said Tyler. In that project, students were matched with a startup business to assess and report on funding options for that business. “That class taught me what the basics of starting a business were and what tools to utilize. I know I use those tools every day.”
Courtney explained that her reason for wanting to start a business was so that she could push her floral design and creativity to its greatest potential. “Having my own shop of some kind was a dream I had growing up. I have always been an artsy person & dabbled in all things crafty. Not long after I started working as a floral designer, I knew I had found my niche and wanted to eventually open my own flower shop.”
The Haistys came to the ASBTDC at Arkansas Tech University for assistance with their project. They worked with business consultant, Ronda Hawkins, who helped them throughout the business planning process, the loan request preparation phase, and the startup process.
Courtney found the step-by-step startup steps for business formation, licenses, permits, and best practices the most helpful. “We had no idea where to begin, but the ASBTDC made the process much smoother, and it was comforting having someone to go to with all our questions,” said Courtney.
Tyler found the market research and how to budget/project what their business could achieve the most helpful. “The projections that the ASBTDC helped us with better set us up for understanding how much we needed for start-up as well as how much we needed to be profitable,” remarked Tyler.
When asked to share her thoughts with other entrepreneurs, Courtney exclaimed, “If you have a dream that seems so far out of reach, but it keeps you awake at night, go for it. Starting a business from the ground up is no easy task, but it is definitely worth the work. Make use of programs such as the services provided by ASBTDC so that you are aware of the risks and are better equipped for the project.”
Visit The Floral Court at 911 East Main Street in Russellville, online at https://www.thefloralcourt.com/, or learn more on Facebook.
106 West O Street • Russellville, AR 72801 • 479.356.2067
asbtdc@atu.edu
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