Congratulations on being voted the “Best of Lawrence”! How does it feel to receive this recognition from the community?

Richard Holman: It’s incredible that so many feel strongly enough to vote for you. It is also not just about your product or service. It is also as much as how you are viewed in the community. People know our name. They know what people should expect when they come through our doors. Getting Best of Lawrence says that people would recommend us.

What do you believe sets your business apart?

That our biggest focus is repeat business and what all does that entail?

A quality product, a lasting decoration and a palatable turnaround time. We also do what is best for a potential customer, even if it isn’t with us.

How has your business evolved or grown since you first started? What key milestones have you achieved along the way?

We’ve changed locations twice and made it to year 7! We have commercial equipment to handle the needs of our customer base, which ensures good turn-around. Better equipment allows us to be competitive and our non-profit donation arm flexing. We can make those donations as a direct result of the support the community provides.

Community support is crucial. How do you engage with the local community, and how has this engagement impacted your success?

A business cannot succeed without the support of the community, that is first and foremost. This business isn’t just mine; it is a part of the community and we enjoy being a mainstay in it. With community support, we are able to contribute to a number of nonprofits in town. We also sit on the non-profit board “D.A.I.S.Y Studios” for DanceHues, a youth dance program in North Lawrence.

Are there any upcoming projects, events, or initiatives that you’re excited about and would like the community to know?

We are doing a local digital art contest. We intend to have it annually. So many times, you have a person that has created some cool art but does not have a platform to showcase it. Graphic designers are so creative and having this contest and printing the top submissions is just a way to give back and do something fun!

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to create their own successful ventures?

Know your ebb and flow before you invest in more equipment. I’d say hold on to as much capital as you can for the first two years. Concentrate on what you do well. Do not take on every possible revenue stream that is adjacent to your core product. Join your local chamber, networking group, and lastly be able to be confident in your work-holding. I think that will be most helpful when things go pear-shaped.

The “Best of Lawrence” title often indicates a commitment to excellence in customer service. How do you ensure that every customer has a positive experience with your business?

We view their request for service from their point of view and not ours. Asking the questions that allow us to present their vision how they pictured it. We make suggestions if needed and advise of trends we’ve seen to help keep their branding up to date.

What long-term goals do you have for your business, and how do you plan to achieve them?

Ultimately, I’d like to leave something behind for future generations. That is the end that I am working toward. This business is not a retirement plan but a chance at leaving a legacy for those that come after. I’m thinking of a 50th Year Anniversary type legacy! Slow and steady is the plan to achieve it and putting the customer first will help.

How do you ensure that your business remains an inclusive and welcoming place for customers of all backgrounds?

There is not any gray here really. I hold near and dear that we are people first; that is uncontestable. Decisions are based on the needs of the customer and our capacity to serve. There is not any goal-post movement when it comes to inclusivity.

Reflecting on your experiences, what leadership lessons have you learned that you believe have been instrumental in your business’s success?

Here in our shop, I have found that setting an example to follow, being clear, fair and open go a long way.

Anything additional you want to share that wasn’t covered in a question above?

I want to acknowledge the other two owners of the business. Lynley Holman and Sidney Budinas. I can’t imagine having more support than what I get from these two. Late nights, early mornings as we work for a shared vision. It has culminated into back to back Best of Lawrence recognitions. Thank you to you both.