Family-Owned Business Grows With Help From SCORE

During winter months, with outdoor tasks reduced, Neil turned to his woodworking hobby, building shelves, picture frames and mantles from local timber. Everything he built was promptly sold at craft shows, so in 1998 he and Carol made the decision to sell most of the cattle, abandon the berries and commit to building a full range of rustic cedar furniture. They contacted Northwest Arkansas SCORE in 2004, asking for guidance. At the first meeting with SCORE Counselors Woody Knight and Mike FitzPatrick, Neil explained that they were working seven days a week, selling everything, but still not showing a profit. During meetings with SCORE, new ideas were tossed around. Realistic market prices were established. Showroom options were explored and introductions were made to nearby banks, retail outlets and chambers of commerce.