Freddie and Tom Hancock took one look at their new home in Montrose and saw something beyond a magnificent house. Their dream was to transform it into a bed and breakfast, plus a base for their not for profit animal rescue operation. Familiar with SBDC consulting services in Arizona where they had moved from, the Hancocks contacted the SBDC for assistance in achieving their dream.
Freddie gave the SBDC consultant a tour of the 12,500 square foot home and surrounding acreage, detailing her and her husband's ultimate vision of the property. Returning a few days later, the consultant discussed a strategic plan for creating their vision. She recommended specific marketing strategies, promotional venues and also provided Freddie with names and phone numbers of contacts that she needed to complete the plan. As Freddie and Tom were new to Montrose, the consultant suggested many critical vendors to launch their plan.
Reviewing their five-year financial forecast, the SBDC consultant provided instruction in Excel so that Freddie could complete her application for a bank loan. The loan was approved and they moved forward and opened.
When it came time for their first magazine ad to be designed, they sought the input of their SBDC consultant for coaching on ad content, photographs and layout. Two different sales brochures were recommended - one for the B & B and one for special events. After reviewing their drafts, the SBDC consultant helped them target their message. Planning for their first overnight guest was again supported by the consultant as she is a trained chef and has B & B experience. On top of this, she provided comments on their sign-in forms plus recipes and food plating tips. Needless to say, the Hancocks were thrilled with the ultimate outcome. With their sign hung on the street and their doors officially open, the Montrose Manor B & B has hosted two successful community events and several overnight guests.
Freddie gave the SBDC consultant a tour of the 12,500 square foot home and surrounding acreage, detailing her and her husband's ultimate vision of the property. Returning a few days later, the consultant discussed a strategic plan for creating their vision. She recommended specific marketing strategies, promotional venues and also provided Freddie with names and phone numbers of contacts that she needed to complete the plan. As Freddie and Tom were new to Montrose, the consultant suggested many critical vendors to launch their plan.
Reviewing their five-year financial forecast, the SBDC consultant provided instruction in Excel so that Freddie could complete her application for a bank loan. The loan was approved and they moved forward and opened.
When it came time for their first magazine ad to be designed, they sought the input of their SBDC consultant for coaching on ad content, photographs and layout. Two different sales brochures were recommended - one for the B & B and one for special events. After reviewing their drafts, the SBDC consultant helped them target their message. Planning for their first overnight guest was again supported by the consultant as she is a trained chef and has B & B experience. On top of this, she provided comments on their sign-in forms plus recipes and food plating tips. Needless to say, the Hancocks were thrilled with the ultimate outcome. With their sign hung on the street and their doors officially open, the Montrose Manor B & B has hosted two successful community events and several overnight guests.
"We wouldn't be where we are today without the competent help and support from our local SBDC consultant. We are living our dream," said Freddie.
