Business Spotlight

Signs & Sticks Video Spotlight Production: PKW Media Solutions

Kyle and Hayley Francis started Signs and Sticks in Willard, Utah in August 2022 as a way to support their growing family while spending more time together. As owners of the custom print shop, they are both artistic, hardworking, and social people who love helping others create new things daily. Some may say the devil is in the details – and this couple has taken that saying to heart, never skimping on the quality of their work.

Like many working parents, Kyle and Hayley struggled to balance their nine-to-five jobs with raising their first child. Feeling like they were missing precious moments as their two-year-old grew up, they decided to combine their existing skills in design and printing to launch their own business.

Starting Signs and Sticks came with some growing pains. Kyle and Hayley’s spare time became devoted to creating their shop, fulfilling orders, developing new designs, and promoting the business. There were certainly trade-offs to make between the company’s needs and everyday life, but for this entrepreneurial couple, every sacrifice has been worthwhile.

Today, Signs and Sticks continues to grow as they strive to exceed expectations with custom prints and branding services. With a 68-inch plotter and 54-inch printer, they create banners, decals, road signs, stickers, and more. They also offer high-resolution photos, posters, and flyers from smaller printers. No matter the size, Kyle and Hayley work closely with each customer to bring ideas to life through their printing services.

Promoting a new business is the first step to getting customers. Let Signs and Sticks help with that important first step!

To learn more about and to contact Signs and Sticks visit their Chamber listing here.

Lon Hudman, Five Star Hospitality Performance

Lon Hudman is a managing partner of Five Star Hospitality Performance, the single source partner for corporate events, experiences, team building activities, and incentive travel for over 18 years. The Worldwide Event Producers have worked with many renowned brands including Microsoft, Eddie Bauer, Outdoor Retailers, and 3M to provide unforgettable experiences.

With offices in Orlando, FL and Salt Lake City, UT, the organization provides both national and global services. Lon Hudman describes what drew him to Ogden explaining, “I recognized a need for a quality event production company in Ogden and Northern Utah.” Hudman spent 25 years in the event production industry prior to stepping away for several years to help establish a start-up nutritional supplement company. Now Hudman has returned to the event production industry to pursue the career that he has always loved.

After telling a former client of his plans to dive back into the event production industry, the client replied excitedly, “Thank goodness! No one ever matched your creativity or the quality of the events that you produced.” Another client endorsement states, “The Five Star Hospitality team are all so great to work with! The location and resort they helped us find was perfect for our company trip. They made the process very easy with constant communication and suggestions that all were on point. Five Star lives up to the name 100%!!”

Specializing in large events, Five Star Hospitality Performance’s corporate structure allows them to assemble the ideal-sized team to fit your needs and optimize the amount spent on any event. Their list of trusted and experienced partners in all areas of event production is second to none, resulting in an event that is of the highest quality and yet budget friendly.

“You rarely remember how something looks, but you will always remember how it made you feel. That’s why we work with our clients to combine creative storytelling, experiential design, and a focus on natural touch points to curate spaces that create lasting memories, not fleeting impressions.”

Hudman believes that live events are going to make a huge comeback, “Post Covid, people are looking forward to getting together again in person and enjoying conventions, meetings, and incentive travel,” said Hudman.

To learn more about Five Star Hospitality Performance, please visit https://fivestarhospitalityevents.com/ or check out their Instagram here. You can also reach Lon Hudman at lon@fivestarperformance.co

Taylor Morton works as the Internet Sales Manager for Young Hyundai in Ogden, Utah. As the Internet Sales Manager, Taylor manages Young Hyundai’s website, social media, and a team of four call specialists. Everyday, she is able to use her strengths to achieve both her personal goals and the goals of the company.

“I’ve been working at Young Hyundai for four and a half years, starting as a call specialist before I was promoted to the Internet Sales Manager after one year,” says Taylor. Taylor also serves on the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation board, a non-profit organization with a mission to serve our young and those in need by bringing together the community to take action and build a brighter future.

One of Taylor’s most memorable moments while serving on the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation board happened last year; Young Hyundai collected food and donations as part of the Heroes Bag Hunger project to provide over 200 Thanksgiving meals for families in the Ogden-Weber area to help them have Thanksgiving dinner. “We love being involved in this community,” says Taylor. “It was such an amazing and humbling project and our team cannot wait for next year.”

Taylor and her husband have lived in Ogden for seven years and they’ve loved living here. Together, the pair has two dogs, enjoys hiking and riding their four-wheelers.

Taylor is excited for the future of Young Hyundai and the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation as she watches the company grow, “We are growing,” says Taylor. “We purchased the AAMCO building to the south of us to expand our used car inventory.”

To learn more about Young Hyundai and Taylor please visit their website here. Call or email at: (801) 784 3848 or tmorton@younghyundaiutah.com

About Young Caring for Our Young Foundation
Young Caring for Our Young is a private, non-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) Foundation established in 2007 by Spencer and Sherry Young. Together with its partners, Young Caring for Our Young provides funding for local education foundations and other non-profit causes that directly impact youth in northern Utah and southern Idaho. Because of our wonderful customers and employees, each of our dealerships donate at least $10,000+ annually, and in many cases much more, to support Young Caring for Our Young initiatives. This results in over $250,000 given back to our communities.

About Young Hyundai
The Hyundai franchise became part of The Young Automotive Group family in April of 2018. The Genesis luxury brand was added in June of 2019. Young Automotive has been in business for over 90 years, carrying almost every automotive brand on the market as well as Powersports. With a used inventory of over 1,500 vehicles, Young Hyundai is confident that they can find you the perfect vehicle for a price that fits your budget.

“Think Young, Think Hyundai”

Mel Witharana, Janadhi & Company

In 2006, Mel saw that one of the needs for small businesses was assistance with technology and cooperation – to provide the same quality assistance that you’d find from enterprise-class businesses with dedicated IT teams. He believed that with the right help, small businesses could compete and be successful in the marketplace. This defining moment is what sparked the inspiration for Janadhi & Company.

Janadhi & Company helps businesses cross the bridge of technology. As an IT solution for businesses, they offer A-Z technological needs. When asked what makes his organization unique, Mel said, “Even though we provide services to over 2000+ customers, we have a close relationship with each client. We like to build long-term relationships and we have always stood by our clients.”

Mel and his team are also very knowledgeable about their products and services. Every year, they allocate a large amount of their revenue to properly train their staff. They also look after the community by volunteering, donating to non-profits, or working on projects that help build better communities.

“I feel I have grown stronger by hearing and seeing others smile when they succeed. Knowing that I have contributed to the growth of a client’s business and helped them in accomplishing their dreams of success… This is why I do what I do,” said Mel, referring to his purpose at Janadhi & Company.

One of Mel’s favorite quotes is, “Be the change you want to see in the world,” from Gandhi. This quote is one that him and his team live by. Mel loves to see the smiles on people’s faces after they get the help they need – this is the biggest win for his company.

Mel is excited for the future of Janadhi & Company as technology continues to advance!

To learn more about Mel, his staff, or Janadhi & Company please visit their website here, call or email: (801) 529 4182 or mel@janadhi.com

“Platinum Payments focuses on creating happy customers; we assure you that payment processing is stress-free and straightforward with us. We only lock you in with – love.”

Samuel Smith, founder of Platinum Payments, had been working in the industry for twelve years prior to starting his own company. He saw the pain points business owners were experiencing. They were locked into long-term contracts, overpaying for equipment/software and having their rates increase up to three-four times a year. He felt strongly it was time for change in the industry.

In April of 2011, he started Platinum Payments with the belief that the most significant change in the world starts with our communities.

One unique thing about Platinum Payments is that they have always offered a rate guarantee – you never have to worry about rate increases with them. You’ll be paired with a local representative that assists you with all processing solutions and is always available for any questions you may have. Many customers are satisfied with their experience, “We love Platinum Payments. They are a dream to work with, and they’re there anytime we need them. We couldn’t be happier!” says Cedar Village Florist in South Ogden.

When asked what the biggest win was for his company, Samuel said, “It has been so satisfying to meet with business owners where we create seamless solutions and help them save a significant amount of revenue they can put right back into their business or their savings.”

Samuel is excited about the future of Platinum Payments. He said it is exciting to the company’s growth, not only here in Utah but nationwide. It brings personal satisfaction to help more businesses have a better experience and better solutions, which feels good.

To learn more about Samuel and Platinum Payments visit their website here. Call or email at: (866) 921 2982 or office@ptpay.us

Since 2010, there had been discussions of designating a space for the Arts community – a place to highlight the talent and creativity of the community in downtown Ogden. Local artists needed an affordable space in a convenient location, and East Central Ogden could provide exactly that.

Thaine Fischer started researching Arts and Creative districts in 2012 when he found an interesting statistic… Arts and Creative districts don’t fail, ever! The only recognized failure is that they become so successful, the community who started them can no longer afford to live there. In addition, they are typically founded in the less desirable or neglected parts of a community. Thaine felt Ogden’s creative and artistic community was underrepresented and needed a place to call home.

Years later in November of 2019, Thaine founded The Monarch – a collaborative environment where artists, creative businesses, and makers of all types can connect, inspire, and create together in the heart of Ogden’s Nine Rails Creative District.

“We believe that creativity drives communities,” says Thaine. “We strive to provide the region with unique experiences through artist engagement, a creative environment as a pallet for private event space, and superior management hosting memorable events.”

Thaine and his staff connected a community of artists, makers, and creatives in a redeveloped historic parking structure. In essence, The Monarch put a flag in the ground for the Nine Rails Creative District, a statement that it believes in the power of ART. The organization takes pride in their community impact and feel that their biggest win has been seeing all the support from Ogden City and the entire Wasatch Front.

“At our grand opening, we had many individuals become emotional while telling us stories of how they have interacted with this historic building,” says Thaine in regards to the overwhelming support. “They love how it has become a creative space that welcomes everyone. Now, they get to create even more memories here.”

Thaine and his team at The Monarch are excited to continue expanding the creative spirit and keep the Arts in Ogden Growing.

To learn more about Thaine, his staff, or The Monarch please visit their website here, call or email: (602) 999 1855 or thaine@themonarchogden.com

In 2021, China started Good As Gold Insurance as a one-woman business writing all different types of insurance policies customized to the lifestyle of her clients. As a mother of two girls, it was important for China to have a job where she was able to stay home with them as much as possible before the school year started – Good As Gold Insurance allowed her to do just that.

“You’ve got it gal!” is China’s motto – she never gives up on a challenge and she never wants her clients to give up either. “No” is not an option for her and she will go to any lengths to make things work. Many clients have said that China always gets back to them with not only a solution, but several options when they felt stuck. Everyone knows they can count on China!

One customer testimonial from her client, Debbie Williams, reads, “China is so bright and really knows about insurance. She is friendly and very conscientious, making sure you get the right insurance for your personal needs.”

China loves and values Ogden’s rich culture, history, and growing community. She has always been connected to this community and proud of its accomplishments and growth. Ogden was the ideal place for her to start her business and she knew that her business would prosper here. When asked what the biggest win for her business has been, China said, “Good As Gold Insurance has experienced financial every month since it opened in 2021.” China is excited for the future and looks forward to seeing the growth of a business that is her completely her own, not attached to another person!

So, what if, instead of thinking about solving your whole life, you just think about adding additional good things. One at a time. Just let your pile of good things grow.
– Rainbow Rowell

To learn more about China please call or email her at: (801) 940 2693 or goodasgoldinsurance@gmail.com

Take 5 Oil Change – Friendly People & Fast Oil Changes!

Founded in 2021, Take 5 Oil Change takes pride in its fast, friendly and simplified oil changes and emissions tests. In just 10 short minutes, while you enjoy a bottle of water in your car, the team at Take 5 Oil Change will change your engine oil along with the filter – checking and replenishing vital under-hood fluids so that you can go about your day.

Taber Cope, Managing Director, recalls the moment that defined the beginning of Take 5 Oil Change, “I wanted others to experience how quick and convenient and oil change should be,” he said. “When I heard about Take 5 Oil Change, I knew it was a concept that would work well here in Utah and I was excited to sign up as a franchise!”

The South Ogden location was the first shop in Utah and one of the very first shops in the Western United States. Today, there are nearly 700 Take 5 Oil Change locations around the United States and Canada. They will be opening three locations in the Ogden area to make sure everyone has access to a quick and friendly oil change.

“Our focus on customer service is second to none. People actually enjoy coming in and getting an oil change with us!”

-Taber Cope, Managing Director, Take 5 Oil Change

The great support of the local community is considered one of Take 5 Oil Change’s biggest wins by the team at Take 5 Oil Change. They are providing a need that the community has been missing – The Stay In Your Car, 10 Minute Oil Change.

One customer had such a great experience at Take 5, they gave one of the nicest reviews the team at Take 5 Oil Change has ever seen, “Benson helped get me registered and was very helpful. I can’t believe how fast they are at providing service! I had waited over 2 hours at the dealership just prior to my scheduled appointment to get an oil change. I was so frustrated with waiting so I came to Take 5 and they took care of me right away. The best part of my visit is how they took care of me when my battery died right in the bay. The manager pulled up his own truck to give me a jump after they tried to charge it a couple of times. I am so impressed with Take 5 and will be coming back every 3 months.”

“Success is not final; failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.”

– Winston Churchill

https://www.take5oilchange.com/locations/ut/south-ogden-1321/

For this week’s Business Spotlight, we’ll be featuring Don Hickman, Financial Coach and Owner of A Helping Hand Financial Coaching.

Initially launched in 2020,

A Helping Hand Financial Coaching is an organization that help individuals and couples turn their personal financial failures into success, nightmares into dreams and stress into peace.

As a financial coach, Don Hickman teaches and trains several necessary skills including:

- successfully communicating as a couple
- creating and following a monthly spending plan
- getting out of suffocating personal debt
- saving for emergencies and investing for retirement
- saving for the kids’ education
- buying and eventually paying off a house

Clients eliminate their financial stress and in doing so, they focus their money and attention on living their life’s purpose.

The defining moment for Don in starting A Helping Hand Financial Coaching was when the COVID-19 pandemic shut down the economy in the spring of 2020. Hickman Group, LLC’s business consulting work had dried up because of the economic disaster that followed the pandemic. Don saw a community need and knew it was imperative to make his financial coaching services available to a wider audience.

“Folks were losing their income, small businesses were closing their doors, and there was an enormous amount of financial stress in our community,” says Don. “We registered A Helping Hand Financial Coaching under Hickman Group, and the rest is history.”

As a 24-year Air Force veteran retiring off Hill Air Force Base in 2012, Don and his wife, Stacey, have lived in 14 different locations throughout their military career. They decided that Ogden Valley and the greater Ogden area was the perfect place to settle down to start their family and eight years later, A Helping Hand Financial Coaching.

“We love helping people, and there are tens of thousands of people who could use our help here in Weber County alone,” says Don. “Every day we help individuals and couples overcome their personal struggles with financial stress.”

Several of Don’s client have completely paid off all their personal debt – they are using a monthly family spending and for the first time in their lives, they have money leftover at the end of the month. A couple under extreme financial stress once had over $240,000 of personal loans and with Don’s help, were able to negotiate with their creditors and eliminate almost $100,000 in personal debt for a settlement at just over $25,000. Another recently divorced client went from desperation to her best year ever as a small business owner.

“Coach Don is an absolute life saver. I had never budgeted before. My financial situation had collapsed several times and I chose not to do anything about it. I just felt it would get better on its own and of course, it never did. I finally wanted to change my situation after my second divorce. Don took me through the systematic process. I was so thrilled with the excitement and passion he had in helping others achieve success and truly succeed.“

– Michelle C., Single Mom & Small Business Owner

When asked what makes his organization unique, Don says, “We focus on a person’s behaviors and emotions related to their money, not just the mechanics and math of investment rates of return and credit scores,” and, “Experience matters, and we have it.” He has coached hundreds of individuals and couples over the years and is one of just a handful of Dave Ramsey certified Master Financial Coaches in northern Utah.

Don and Stacey started at the bottom and worked their way to the top – now having zero debt of any kind, money in the bank, and are living the life they planned to live years ago. When they aren’t working, they ski in the winter and enjoy their horses, fly fishing, camping, and gardening in the summer. Don also enjoys being active in the community as the Chair of the Board of Trustees of Ogden Valley Adaptive Sports and a past Chair of the Board of Ogden Nature Center.

Menchie’s makes you smile!

This is the mission that Rory Rich and his team set out to accomplish from the day they opened the franchise in May 2017. Rory says, “While most people think that we sell frozen yogurt, the real goal is to make them smile by providing them with an exceptional experience and amazing frozen desserts.” Everything is about quality – starting with the best ingredients, but more importantly Rory says their first priority is creating an awesome experience for their guests.

We had a chance to ask Rory some questions about Menchie’s and how he got started with the franchise.

Was there a defining moment that inspired you to open a Menchie’s?

“My daughters and I have always wanted a restaurant. During our introduction with Menchie’s, we quickly realized the franchise’s focus on quality, guest care and people who were aligned with the ideals we hold important. The fantastic froyo was the ‘cherry on top’ to what has become an experience we’ll never forget.”

What drew you to the Ogden-Weber area?

“We wanted to bring the Menchie’s experience to the northern part of Utah and we knew without any doubt that downtown Ogden was our target. Despite the area ‘not fitting’ with the Menchie’s expected footprint, we convinced them that Ogden’s downtown vibe was indeed the place to be.”

“Nowhere in Weber county can you find a place with so much to do packed into such a small area. We knew we could make the Menchie’s experience fit right in with the incredible energy found in downtown Ogden.”

Tell us about the internal culture at Menchie’s. What makes it so unique?

“We don’t have ’employees,’ we have team members. It is not just a twist on language… We want our folks to feel cared for as best we can. We are supportive and we recognize that for much of our team, it is their first job in the labor market. We feel a responsibility to set them up for success.”

You’ve mentioned creating exceptional experiences for your guests. What has been your biggest moment with Menchie’s?

“Our acceptance by Ogden and surrounding communities has been incredible. The connection to our fans and our community has been so much fun and so very humbling. We’re not here just to make a buck – we want to connect with the community and we think we’ve done a good job at that.”

We’ve seen many positive reviews about your business. Are there any comments that have stuck out to you?

“We get many compliments on how well our guests are treated by our team members. This is the number one thing that I am told more than anything else.”

What excites you the most about owning and operating a business in Ogden?

“We see the resilience of our guests and Utah residents coming out of the chaos that COVID-19 has created. We see Ogden and the downtown area becoming more vibrant and exciting – entertainment, arts, businesses and a myriad of other aspects. We can see ourselves being a part of that growth and vibrance.”

Do you have any quotes or words of wisdom that you can share with us?

“I will always remember this quote by Buckaroo Banzai, ‘No matter where you go… There you are. It sums up the fact that it is important to embrace where and who you are no matter where you find yourself in life.”