Success Story: Success Story
Bellagios Pizza
Dan Gresham had always dreamed of owning his own business. He also wanted to play a larger role in his young daughter's life and coach her sports teams. Plus, with 13 years as a government environmental protection specialist, he says, "I hit that glass ceiling." The plans to open a place with his buddies never seemed to materialize. His wife Shay encouraged him, saying, "Stop waiting and do it on your own." Bellagios Pizza in Wilsonville is now three years old, has made steady growth, and Gresham is considering opening his second store. He's also coaching his daughter's sports teams -- soccer, basketball and track.
Gresham learned about the Small Business Development Center at Clackamas Community College through the local chamber of commerce, enrolled in the "Recipe for a Successful Restaurant" seminar, and then signed up his staff for customer service classes.
"My employees' performance has shot up," says Gresham, who has a staff of approximately 18 people. In fact, Bellagios corporate office now recommends the training to other franchises.
Gresham enrolled in the Small Business Management Program and says, "The class topics renew the excitement of owning my own business -- they're designed to give you energy and focus. The SBDC encourages proactive behavior." |
