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In a world where passion often meets practicality, many entrepreneurs find themselves at a crossroads, choosing between established paths and uncharted territories. For some, the leap into the unknown is driven by a spark of inspiration that ignites a journey unlike any other. This is particularly true in the creative industries, where the fusion of artistry and business acumen can lead to remarkable transformations, not just for the individual but for the communities they serve. Trista Miller embodies this dynamic spirit of entrepreneurship. As the owner of three businesses, she navigates the delicate balance between floral design, dog training, and creating safe spaces for pets. Her path was not always clear-cut. Like many who dared to follow their dreams, Trista's journey began with a different vision, one that required getting a master's degree, which ultimately led her to her first business venture. In this article, we'll explore how Trista's unique background, unwavering determination, and love for flowers and pets have shaped her into a pioneering force in our community. Through her story, we will uncover the essence of building a business that resonates deeply with personal passions and community needs. Trista's journey began in the small town of Roanoke, Indiana, where she was raised by a police officer father and a stay-at-home mother on a farm just outside the city. She went to school in Huntington, Indiana, and after graduation, started working towards her degree at Huntington University but ultimately transferred to Ball State University to pursue a master's degree in counseling psychology. While working towards her degree, Trista discovered a hidden passion for floral design when she took a floral design class. Little did she know then that this side class would soon become a full-fledged career. During Trista’s masters degree program she started working with local non-profits in the Fort Wayne area. After nearly two years in the industry, she decided to leave social work and went full-time with her business, Rose's Bouquets. As we discussed this pivotal moment in her life, she explained, "I enjoyed social work, but it wasn't as good of a fit for me as I thought it would be. I really liked doing the floral work and doing my own thing, so within about two years, I was working full-time with flowers. My name is Trista Rose Miller; I was named after my grandma Lou Rose, so my business name is Rose's Bouquets. I didn't like the unpredictability of a traditional retail shop having a stocked cooler and not knowing if you would get calls. I loved the idea of larger projects and weddings in particular because the clientele needs more time and expertise than funeral or birthday bouquets, so I developed the idea of being a weddings-only florist. That was totally unique 21 years ago when I started. There were no wedding-only vendors of any kind, so that was a unique thing I was able to do." Over the last 21 years, Trista has built relationships with floral suppliers across the globe to create unique and elegant floral arrangements for her clients. Today, Rose's Bouquets has provided flowers for over 1,400 weddings and has created over 35,000 different designs. Trista has displayed a vast portfolio displaying 2,000 photos on her website to show potential clients the various styles, colors, and arrangements she has created. When we talked about the journey over the last 21 years, we asked Trista what challenges she has faced so far. She said, "Being adaptable to industry changes and how we find brides. When we started, I had CD ROM photos that I gave out, and then we transitioned to having a website, and now we also have social media, so you have to be willing to adapt and change. We've also had to change our advertising style and how we talk to people. For example, I haven't had someone call me and ask me about my availability in over six months. People text, email, or fill out my contact form instead. Then, on the business side, it is like what payment forms are you willing to take. I lost a wedding ten years ago because I didn't take credit cards because it was so expensive. Today, I take credit cards with a transaction fee, but I also accept Zelle and Venmo. The other side of it is design changes. Floral wedding work is very much like design trends; they change constantly, and how the brides shop has changed. It used to be big bridal catalogs, but now it's on Pinterest and social media. So knowing where brides are getting their design ideas from is changing, so I've had to get used to adjusting and making changes over the years."  When brides reach out to Trista to inquire about her wedding floral services, her first step is to confirm her availability for their chosen date. At Rose's Bouquets, bookings are not uncommon to extend 12 to 18 months in advance during peak wedding season. However, Trista encourages brides to check with her, as openings may still be available. Once availability is confirmed, the next step is to discuss the floral packages offered. The smallest package starts at $1,500, with the average wedding costing between $3,000 and $4,000. The most extensive project Trista has completed to date reached $12,000. After aligning on package expectations, Trista discusses her exclusivity policy with the clients. She explains, "Most reputable florists are going to ask that they provide all flowers for the event because it gets really sticky if Aunt Susan wants to provide some flowers and the caterers say they can provide centerpieces and they just want you to do the bridal and bridesmaid bouquets. It's just tough to match, so over the years, I have developed a more strict policy because I've had too many horrible experiences with that. I believe in separating areas and being great in your area." Once a bride confirms they would like to move forward, Trista can begin crafting the arrangements, with delivery scheduled for the day of the event. To support her during busy weekends, when she often manages one to two weddings, Rose's Bouquets employs ten part-time staff members who assist with delivery and setup. Trista deeply appreciates her team, recognizing that their help is invaluable to her business. As we continued to discuss Rose's Bouquets, we asked Trista what led her to start another business. She said, "Polite Paws was number two, and that business started because I always enjoyed animals, and that was kind of a respite from flowers. I don't have kids, so my business is my 24/7 thing, so it's always been helpful to have hobbies along with it. Ballroom dance was one for many years, and then I got into dog training. I was really struck by the different techniques available for dog training.  There are a lot of really scary, aversive tools that are being recommended, and dog training isn't really regulated at all. It almost became a passion project for me to get certified and educated to find out what the ramifications are from these techniques, and then I ended up developing a business out of it. I mostly train in the off-season or when weddings are slower, but I ended up specializing in aggression cases, working with some of the more severe cases in our community." Trista launched Polite Paws in 2019 and was officially certified through CPDT (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers) in 2020. She explained that to receive your certification, you must complete 300 hours of training, pass an exam, and provide a reference from someone in the industry. To do that, she needed to launch her training business first. Today, Trista mainly focuses on providing private lessons and helping owners with whatever their pets need, but when she first started, she offered classes ranging from agility to puppy training. Although Trista is happy to help train dogs in many areas, she will not provide training for prong, shock, or choke collars, including electric fence training. She is happy to explain to pet owners why she does not agree with these training methods and will gladly offer alternative solutions. Throughout her dog training journey, Trista developed the idea of launching her third business, Fido’s Forest. She said, "Fido's Forest was started because so many of my clients couldn't go out and walk their dogs either because their dogs were reactive or they were pulling them on a leash or they just simply didn't have a backyard or they didn't feel safe walking in their area due to previously having their dog attacked by another dog. My dog training gave me the idea to start Fido's Forest. I  thought, 'What if we built a place that was fenced that was big enough for the dogs to explore safely and not worry about running into other people or dogs.'" As Trista began the process to launch Fido's Forest, she didn't realize how challenging it would be. She explained that there is a lot of red tape for permitting and opening a dog park. She said, "We had no idea how much work and how difficult it would be. There is no zone in our county that allows dog parks; it's a category that doesn't exist. Some zones allow you to have a dog park if you file a variance, go in front of the board, have a public hearing, and get accepted. So that's what we had to do, but that process was very daunting, challenging, and intimidating. Some neighbors opposed us, but many people supported us, including the director of Animal Care and Control and several local dog trainers. We had over a thousand people sign a petition asking for the park, and we had a neighbor come to support us as well, so our supporters outweighed the ones that opposed us." Fido's Forest opened in July 2022 and has been a major attraction for dog owners. The park is open every day from sunrise to sunset, and dog owners can book one-hour time slots allowing them full access to the park for the duration of their scheduled time. Although bookings are in one-hour increments, people are welcome to book consecutive time slots if it is available, but it is requested that everyone is out of the park at least 5 minutes before the hour is up to ensure there is no overlapping of visitors to provide safe transitions for all pets and owners. Booking a visit to Fido's Forest is simple. First, you'll need to create an account on their website, https://fidosforest.com , upload your dog's vaccine records showing your pet has both their rabies and DHPP vaccines up to date, and lastly, select the day and time you would like to visit.   Pricing is $19 an hour for one dog and $5 for each additional dog planning to enjoy the forest. Once your booking is complete, you will receive a confirmation email 24 hours before your visit, providing you with a code to enter the gates at the park. Recommended items to bring with you are poop bags, treats, a leash for safe entry and exit from the park, water, mosquito spray, and mud boots. There is no water onsite, so make sure to also bring a towel or wipes for your pets if it is muddy inside the park.  In addition to managing Polite Paws and Fido's Forest, Trista's passion for working with dogs extends far beyond her business. She is deeply committed to rescue work and has volunteered with several local shelters over the years. Currently, she fosters dogs with Cavalier Rescue USA and gives weekly Fido’s Forest visit donations to Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control and Humane Fort Wayne for their adoptable dogs. Trista also frequently sponsors local shelter and rescue events, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to the well-being of dogs in our community. As we talked with Trista about how she manages all three of her companies, we asked her about the challenges of running three businesses at once. She said, "Being on call 24/7. With the forest, we are open all week from sunrise to sunset, so I am getting calls throughout that time any day of the week. Sometimes, I'm juggling. For example, if I'm at a wedding setup and get a call from someone needing help with their booking at the forest, I'm constantly changing hats. My husband helps some, but he has a 9-5 job, so he can't be on call like I am. People think business ownership is just so glamorous and rewarding and money-making, and it is at times, but it is 24/7, and you have to learn so many different skills like payroll and tax withholding. Things you never thought you'd have to know as a florist or a dog trainer, but at least you can apply the knowledge you learn along the way to other businesses." We followed up on this question by asking Trista about her hopes for the future of Rose's Bouquets, Polite Paws, and Fidos Forest. She shared, "I'm actually scaling back Rose's a bit. Next year, I am limiting bookings to have more weekends off because right now, I get maybe one or two weekends off from May through October, which is hard because I work all week, too. People think I only work on weekends as a wedding florist, but that is not true. Throughout the week, I have to order the flowers, condition them, meet with my brides, and do the bookkeeping, so I'm scaling back just a little to give more time to personal things. We would love to open a second Fido's location. We would love to offer a pond and a larger field. Some feedback has been that people would like to play fetch with their dog in a large space because Fido's Forest is totally wooded. We would like to have another location on the other side of town but it's just a matter of the pieces falling into place. Polite Paws is in a bit of a holding pattern, and I take on clients when I can when it's a good fit for my skills, but we have many great trainers in town, so at least I can be a great referral source."  Trista Miller's journey is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and adaptability in the world of entrepreneurship. From her humble beginnings in Roanoke, Indiana, to establishing three thriving businesses, she has navigated the complexities of the floral and pet care industries with grace and determination. Her ability to pivot and evolve in response to changing market demands illustrates the innovative spirit that drives successful entrepreneurs. As she looks to the future, Trista is not only focused on the growth of Rose's Bouquets and Fido's Forest but also on creating a more balanced life that allows her to savor personal moments and passions outside of work. Whether scaling back on bookings or envisioning a new location for Fido's Forest, her commitment to improving her businesses while maintaining her well-being remains true. In a world where many juggle multiple roles and responsibilities, Trista stands out as an inspiring figure who proves that success is not just about financial gain but also about nurturing one's passions and serving the community. Her story encourages us all to embrace our unique paths, reminding us that creativity and business can lead to fulfilling and impactful lives. Trista offers this valuable advice to other entrepreneurs aspiring to start their businesses. She said, "You have to want it more than anything else and be willing to get knocked down and get back up. If you don't have that passion, that's okay. There are a lot of downsides to being a business owner, and there is nothing wrong with having the traditional 9-5. It's also good to have a limit. Either a specific amount of time or money you're willing to commit before you look at your business, determine whether or not it is working, and decide what your next steps should be." We want to send a huge thank you to Trista for taking the time to share her story with us. We are excited to see what she does next with her companies. We also want to thank Nike with Creative Roots Media for capturing the photos you see throughout this article. If you enjoy reading the stories of the entrepreneurs helping shape our city, one business at a time, subscribe to our free newsletter so you are always in the loop about what is happening here at the Fort Wayne Business Journal.

Get ready for a spooktacular weekend in Fort Wayne! There’s no shortage of fun and frights with a lineup of thrilling events perfect for the whole family! This & That’s Spook and Shop Market is the ultimate marketplace for unique finds and Halloween treats! Shop local vendors and get into the festive spirit! Boo! Fest at St Joe Little League Baseball Diamond promises a day of family-friendly activities and plenty of spooky surprises! Bring the kiddos for some fun under the fall sky! Trunk or Treat locations are popping up all over town! Check out the community spots where you can gather candy and enjoy the festive atmosphere! Don’t miss Pawject Runway, where furry friends strut their stuff! And lastly for those seeking a Safe Trick or Treat experience at the Haunted Castle and Black Forest! It’s a frightfully fun way to collect goodies in a safe environment! Mark your calendars and grab your costumes! Let’s make this weekend one to remember! This & That Spook & Shop Market : 3436 N Anthony Blvd Fort Wayne, IN 46805 Boo! Fest: 6240 Saint Joe Central Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46835 Trunk or Treat Locations Saturday: Sensory Fun and Playroom 4p-7p: 6746 E State Blvd Fort Wayne, IN 46815 Faith Baptist Kids Ministries 4:30p-6p: 6600 Trier Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46815 Mr. Rooter Plumbing 12p: 8717 Illinois Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46804 Jackson R Lehman Family YMCA 5p-7p: 5680 YMCA Park Drive West Fort Wayne, IN 46835 St Vincent De Paul HASA 2:30p-4:30p: 1720 E Wallen Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46825 Life Adult Day Academy 1p-3p: 7515 Westfield Dr Fort Wayne, IN 46825 Bell Mansion 12p-5p: 420 W Wayne St Fort Wayne, IN 46802 Bierman Autism Center 10a-12p: 12938 Coldwater Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46845 Pawject Runway 2024: 4000 Parnell Ave Fort Wayne, IN 46805 Safe Trick or Treat 2024: 1720 E Wallen Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46825 Trunk or Treat Locations Sunday: Brooks Family at Electric Works 2p-6p: 1020 Swinney Ave Fort Wayne, IN 46802 Partners In Autism 1p-3p: 601 Noble Dr Fort Wayne, IN 46825 Mike Thomas Associates Realtors 3p-5p: 9601 Coldwater Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46825

As an entrepreneur, managing time, tasks, and teams effectively can be challenging without the right tools. Luckily, a variety of software solutions can help simplify operations, streamline communication, and improve productivity. From project management and design to customer relationship management and accounting, these essential tools are designed to make life easier for business owners, allowing them to focus on growth and innovation rather than getting bogged down by everyday tasks. Applications Softwares to Try: Trello Trello is a highly visual project management tool that uses boards, lists, and cards to help entrepreneurs organize and manage tasks. Whether you’re managing solo projects or coordinating with a team, Trello’s flexible system allows you to track progress and deadlines effectively. Key Benefits : Visual task management, simple drag-and-drop functionality. Best For : Organizing personal projects or team collaboration in a flexible, intuitive format. Canva Canva simplifies graphic design down to the level where even an amateur entrepreneur can get professional-quality visuals without having high-level advanced design skills. Be it social media posts, presentations, or business cards, Canva provides templates of all these, which one can customize in minutes. Key Benefits: Prebuilt templates; drag-and-drop design features, requiring no design experience. Best For: Creating visually appealing marketing materials and presentations. Slack Slack now revolutionizes the way people communicate with your team by setting up channels on specific topics or projects that teams can communicate on without clogging up their email inboxes. Key Benefits : Real-time communication, organized by channels and topics. Best For: Improving team collaboration and cutting down on unnecessary email threads. Google Workplace Google Workspace formerly offered G Suite—a set of cloud-based productivity applications that included Gmail, Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and many more. It powers entrepreneurship and teams collaborating in documents or projects in real time, no matter where they might be. Key Benefits: Real-time collaboration, cloud-based access to files and communication tools. Best For: those who want to handle documents, emails, and calendars in one smooth integrated environment. Asana Asana helps the entrepreneur in managing projects and tracking even the most complex projects by turning them into the creation of tasks, assignment of people, establishment of due dates, visual project timelines, and task lists so that nothing may fall between the cracks. Key Benefits: Assigning and tracking a task, the workflows of a project are customizable. Best For: Control of projects with several steps involved; teams stay in the light of where the progress is. Quickbooks QuickBooks is among the well-known accounting tools designed to enable small businesses to simplify their financial operations with ease. Invoicing, tracking employee expenses, and payrolls are easily automated. It also keeps entrepreneurs informed about financial costing through detailed financial reports by maintaining an organized system. Key Benefits: Automated bookkeeping, financial reporting for tax purposes is easy to do. Best for: Business accounting, invoicing, and payroll management. HubSpot CRM HubSpot CRM is a free, easy-to-use customer relationship management tool to track all interactions with customers, manage leads, and monitor sales activity of entrepreneurs. It's perfect for those who wish to improve customer management without any addition in costs Key Benefits: Free CRM with sales pipeline tracking and integration with other tools. Best For : Managing customer relationships and streamlining the sales process.   Entrepreneurs need to remember Having the right tools can make all the difference in managing and growing your business. These software solutions provide entrepreneurs with the ability to organize tasks, streamline communication, manage finances, and strengthen customer relationships more effectively. By leveraging these tools, you can save time, improve team collaboration, and focus on what really matters—driving innovation and growth for your business. Advertise with Fort Wayne Business Journal: https://www.businessjournalfw.com/contact-8

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend in Fort Wayne! Brickworld Fort Wayne: Calling all LEGO lovers! Dive into a world of creativity with amazing displays, hands-on building activities, and opportunities to meet fellow brick enthusiasts. Perfect for all ages, this event is sure to spark your imagination! Fall & Christmas Market: Get a head start on your holiday shopping at this charming market filled with unique crafts, seasonal goodies, and festive treats. It's the perfect place to find that special gift while soaking up the cozy autumn atmosphere! Ausome Autumn Fest: Enjoy a sensory-friendly fall festival designed for everyone to enjoy! With engaging activities, delicious food, and a welcoming environment, this event is perfect for families looking to celebrate the season in a relaxed setting. Grab your friends and family and make the most of this vibrant weekend in Fort Wayne! Brickworld Fort Wayne: 4000 Parnell Ave Fort Wayne, IN 46805 Fall & Christmas Market Fest: 9801 Saint Joe Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46835 Ausome Autumn Fest 2024: 5601 Coventry Lane Fort Wayne, IN 46804

Get ready for an action-packed weekend filled with adventure, creativity, and fun for the whole family! Here’s what’s happening around the city: Wild Zoo Fort Wayne at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo: Enjoy a wild experience as you explore the wonders of nature and animals with a spooktacular twist! Everyone encouraged to dress in their Halloween costumes and enjoy the activities throughout the zoo! Botanical Brew at the Conservatory: Sip on some locally crafted brews while soaking in the beauty of blooming flowers. Enjoy live music, delicious bites, and a unique atmosphere! Space Day at Science Central: Blast off into a day of discovery! Explore the mysteries of the universe with hands-on activities, fascinating exhibits, and special presentations. Perfect for aspiring astronauts and curious minds! 2024 Hogworks Takeover at Electric Works: Hogwarts is taking over the electric works campus bringing you a magical experience! Enjoy mystical classes, delicious food and drinks, visits with creatures, and so much more! Market After Dark: Experience the magic of a fall festival after dark! Enjoy hayrides at night, pumpkin picking under the lights, flashlight corn maze, hot apple cider, food and more! 2024 Fall at the Stall at Dare to Dream Youth Ranch: Enjoy family-friendly activities, seeing the horses in costume, shopping jewelry vendors, getting candy, refreshments, along with other exciting fall fun events! So grab your friends and family, and make the most of this extraordinary weekend in Fort Wayne! What event are you most excited about? Wild Zoo Fort Wayne at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo: 3411 Sherman Blvd Fort Wayne, IN 46808 Botanical Brew: 1100 S Calhoun St Fort Wayne, IN 46802 Space Day at Science Central: 1950 N Clinton St Fort Wayne, IN  46805 2024 Hogworks Takeover: 1020 Swinney Ave Fort Wayne, IN 46802 Market After Dark: 4525 Knoll Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46809 2024 Fall at the Stall at Dare to Dream Youth Ranch: 6020 W Wallen Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46818

Playing a sport can ignite a passion within individuals that drives them to push themselves to new heights throughout their athletic careers. However, some athletes' love for the game doesn't end when their playing career is over. Instead, they discover a new passion for teaching and coaching, using their knowledge and experience to help others improve and succeed in the sport they once played. Brandon Evans, owner of Pro Standard Basketball Academy, discovered his passion for coaching at 15. As he progressed through college, he had the opportunity to train with a well-renowned basketball trainer in San Diego. This experience opened his eyes to the world of training and inspired him to pursue a career helping others reach their full potential on the court. Now, he is on a mission to grow his training business and make a lasting impact on the basketball community. Today, we will delve into his story about how his love for basketball began, his coaching journey throughout his younger years, and how he got to where he is today with Pro Standard Basketball Academy. Brandon Evans was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and spent his early years there until his family relocated to Gurnee, Illinois, just before his sixth-grade year. Reflecting on his childhood, Brandon shared that sports played a central role in his life. From playing hockey and baseball at a young age, it was basketball that captured his heart during middle school. Upon entering high school at Carmel Catholic, Brandon decided to try out for the football team, which he found to be a refreshing change but ultimately reinforced his love for basketball. As part of his school's community service requirements, Brandon began assisting his AAU basketball coach with the younger players, organizing workouts, aiding in practice sessions, and even stepping into a coaching role. It was during this time that Brandon's passion for coaching was sparked and started to flourish. After graduation, Brandon ultimately decided he didn't want to continue playing basketball at the college level but rather focus on his studies. He wanted to study engineering, so he went to his local community college and pursued an engineering internship in his city. After his freshman year, Evans was less passionate about engineering, so he made a degree shift to Business Administration and transferred to the University of Missouri. We asked Brandon if he had always wanted to start a business, and he said, "I grew up watching my grandparents, Dick and Marti Evans, run Evans Toyota up north Fort Wayne. Then they passed it down to my uncle, Rick Evans, who now runs that and a multitude of other business in Fort Wayne and beyond. So business owning was all I'd ever known and always wanted to do. I just didn't follow down the car path." While in Missouri, he continued to coach, but this was his first experience with coaching without the guidance of his AAU coach, so it was a great learning experience. Then, in 2020, COVID-19 drastically changed the education system, and Brandon's coaching career was abruptly stopped. As Covid restrictions started tailing off, Brandon had just completed his junior year of college. With a late submission for his final class, he unexpectedly had a summer off. With this new time, he decided to reach out to Ryan Razooky, a well-known basketball trainer in San Diego, who he had been following on social media for some time. In his message to Ryan, he asked him various questions about how he managed to start a training gym and make it so successful. When Ryan responded, Brandon was shocked to see that instead of answering any of his questions, Ryan offered to have him come out to San Diego to show him exactly how he did it. Brandon jumped on this opportunity and went out to San Diego immediately. As we discussed that time, Brandon said, "In San Diego, I realized that I could actually start training for a business. All I ever understood about basketball, coaching, and training was that you do it because you love it. There's really no opportunity for it to expand or become a business because only corporate entities can do it and be successful with it because bigger companies back them. I learned there that that is definitely not the case. Ryan mentored me for three months. I got to learn everything from him. He has two gyms, trains over 400 people between the two, and has about two million followers across social platforms. So that is what I did that summer, and again, that was the launch pad for me. I got to work with NBA guys, and I got to work pro days in Vegas. It was an unbelievable experience but I came home, moved back to Fort Wayne in late August 2022 with forty dollars in my bank account, completed my last two classes online, and started my business." In 2023, Brandon filed the paperwork to form his business, Brandon Evans Basketball. He made a deal with Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Waynedale to rent gym space and began marketing his basketball training services. We asked what the challenges were in the beginning stages of the business. He said, "It wasn't the most difficult thing I've ever done, but there were some obstacles. The first one being - I don't know if you know much about the basketball training social media space, but there were a lot of people who thought I was just a "social media trainer" because there are a lot of people on social media that have big followings but they don't know what they're talking about. I understood it because I was 23 at the time, and I was advertising training. I had just gotten back from a social media powerhouse in California, so there was a period where I had to prove I was good at training and developing players. That was the biggest thing I had to overcome. It didn't take too long to prove that I was good because the kids I was training did start to get really good, but as far as obstacles, that was my biggest one, and then, of course, getting people in the gym was another one, but that's pretty common with every business I think." From the beginning, Brandon had a very focused business plan. He witnessed what Ryan was doing in San Diego and intended to replicate it here in Fort Wayne. He knew he wanted to offer group classes, so he started with one a week at the same time each week. Once he had enough kids to expand to two days, he added another day to the schedule and continued that pattern until the week was full. Throughout his class, he takes his players through live game sessions, training and developing their live game skills, simultaneously making them better all-around players. He also offered team training to other coaches, typically for free, to get in front of more kids. During this time, he was introduced to his now partner, Chase Sanders, through a mutual connection. Chase grew up in Fort Wayne, played basketball for Manchester University and Trinity Christian College, played a couple of years in semi-pro basketball, and then coached a pro team in Germany for a year. In 2022, he moved back to Fort Wayne, and when he and Brandon connected, they hit it off immediately. Chase asked Brandon to come out and train his incoming senior team, and they've been close ever since. On September 8th, 2023, Chase and Brandon joined forces and converted Brandon Evans Basketball into Pro Standard Basketball Academy. As the business continued to grow, they were quickly outgrowing the gym at Mount Calvary, and the sale of the church to Smith Academy set Brandon on a hunt for a new location that could fully accommodate their growing business. In May, Brandon found the perfect location within a warehouse at 2320 Pennsylvania Street. After signing a three-year lease with the owner of Carr's Lawn and Landscape, the warehouse owner, Brandon got to work converting the 4700-square-foot warehouse into the perfect basketball training facility. Brandon created a parent and player waiting area filled with couches, refreshments, TV, and WiFi. He placed flooring to make a court equipped with two half courts, one side featuring college and pro lines, pro-grade basketball hoops, and all equipment needed for training and with the much-appreciated help from Paul, the warehouse owner, his crew, Brandon's girlfriend, and a few other friends, Pro Standard Basketball Academy opened its new location on June 24th, 2024. Now that the facility is open, we asked Brandon what his favorite part of being in the new space is. He said it's definitely being able to do what he wants without having to ask permission beforehand. If he wants to add class times or do open gyms, he now has that flexibility. In fact, he has already scheduled a few camps at the end of July, along with a couple of open gym 3v3 sessions over the weekends. Regarding pricing for sessions, we asked how the price structure works for those wanting to join his training program, and he said, "It's all monthly. You can do drop-ins, but it's more expensive per group, so everything is monthly. One, because that gives us consistency, and two because it gives families consistency; as players, it helps their development. It is very hard for Chase and me to develop players when they are not coming consistently, so we reward that. So, the payment structure is judged by how often you come per week. So for my middle school structure, for example, if you come once a week, that's $99.99 a month, which breaks down to about $25 per class; if you come twice a week, it's $180 a month, which breaks down to $22.50 a class. The more you want to come, the cheaper it is for you. Consistency is the biggest thing, and we tell the players that. We want players to come in here, learn something, take that knowledge, keep practicing it, and then return and do it again." Today, Brandon and Chase train between 50-75 players a week, but they expect that number to increase once school starts. Brandon aims to get that number up to 150 players during the slow season and 300 players during the busy season because the facility can easily handle that capacity. We asked Brandon what he believes sets his training program apart from others in the area. He said, "I would say that we hold everyone to the same standard. Chase and I both have good experience with the highest level of players, and we both have developed kids from little kids to pros, and we hold everyone to the same standard. We take our youth and middle school classes along the same route as our pros. There are small differences between them but in terms of teaching them the game action and showing when and how to do things is what I believe makes us different. We teach off of game principles, and we never use cone drills. Everything is game principle-based, and our goal is to teach kids how to play the game. We expect kids to do cone drills independently, so that's what makes us different; we teach game principles." As we discussed the future of Pro Standard, Brandon shared that, first and foremost, he wants to increase the amount of kids at training each week. Once he reaches his capacity goals, he envisions opening up another location replicating the successful model. Brandon aims to recruit additional trusted trainers who can effectively implement the program structure, allowing him to shift his focus toward the back-end aspects of the business, such as marketing and optimization. He also aspires to introduce camps featuring prominent basketball stars, offering players new and distinctive experiences within the training program. The journey of Brandon Evans from a young athlete with a passion for basketball to the owner of Pro Standard Basketball Academy is a testament to the power of following one's passion and turning it into a successful business venture. Brandon's story showcases how his love for coaching was ignited at a young age and how he pursued his dream of helping others reach their full potential on the court. Brandon's vision for a training business became a reality through dedication, hard work, and the mentorship of a well-renowned basketball trainer in San Diego. From humble beginnings to the grand opening of his training facility, Brandon's determination and focus on providing quality coaching have set Pro Standard Basketball Academy apart in the industry. As he looks towards the future, Brandon's goal of expanding his business, adding more trainers, and offering unique experiences for players demonstrates his commitment to making a lasting impact on the basketball community. With a strong foundation and a clear vision for growth, Pro Standard Basketball Academy is poised to continue inspiring and developing the next generation of basketball players. To finish our conversation, we asked Brandon what advice he would give to other entrepreneurs hoping to launch a business someday. He said, "It's going to be a long journey, so prepare yourself to work all day, every day. There will be many ups and downs but you have to continue doing what you're doing. Stay the course." We want to thank Brandon for taking the time to share his story with us. His hard work and dedication to helping develop future basketball stars is truly admirable and serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and coaches alike. Brandon's passion for the game and commitment to providing top-notch training services have undoubtedly positively impacted the basketball community. We look forward to seeing the continued success of Pro Standard Basketball Academy. We also want to thank Nike with Creative Roots Media for capturing the images displayed throughout the article. If you like reading about the entrepreneurs helping shape Fort Wayne one business at a time, sign up for our free newsletter so you're always in the loop about what's happening here at the Fort Wayne Business Journal.

Salomon Farm opens its gates to a delightful celebration of harvest and community. This Saturday, the farm promises a vibrant blend of delicious food, engaging activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're a local resident or just passing through, Salomon Farm in Fort Wayne, Indiana is the perfect destination for a day of family fun and exploration. A Culinary and Food Experience at Salmon Food lovers will be in for a treat with a variety of mouth-watering offerings from vendors at this event. Whip & Chill is set to serve up creamy, handcrafted ice cream that will satisfy your sweet cravings. With both classic flavors and seasonal favorites, it’s the perfect way to cool down after a day of activities. Shigs n Pit brings the smoky essence of barbecue to the farm with its expertly grilled meats, complemented by delicious sides. Ideal for meat lovers, this stall is sure to be a favorite among attendees. Along with other food options at the farm everyone is sure to find something delicious to indulge in! Fun Activities for Everyone at Salomon Farm! At Salomon Farm, there’s no shortage of activities designed to entertain and engage visitors of all ages this Saturday from 10a-5p. DeKalb Horseman County Association will be providing pony rides, allowing children to experience the joy of riding. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, hay rides and horse drawn carriage rides will take you through the beautiful landscapes of the farm. Kids and animal lovers will delight in the chance to pet friendly goats, see the cows and the huge horses, creating cherished memories. Plus, the farm's pumpkin patch features a variety of colorful pumpkins and gourds, making for perfect fall decor. A small maze on the farm invites young adventurers to explore, while basketball hoops provide an opportunity for some friendly competition. Also, for younger visitors, pony rides offer a delightful experience that will leave them smiling from ear to ear. Tractor Demonstrations and Educational Fun In addition to the food and activities, Salomon Farm offers an educational component that highlights traditional farming techniques. Visitors can watch fascinating tractor demonstrations, including: Wood slicing: Discover how wood is processed for various uses. Rock crushing: Learn about how rocks are utilized in farming and construction. Corn separation and peeling: Get an up-close look at how corn is prepared for consumption and other uses. These hands-on demonstrations provide a unique learning experience, giving visitors insight into the hard work that goes into farming. Check out Salomon Farm for the Fall Harvest Festival this year on Saturday September 28th from 10a-5p. With delicious food, engaging activities, and a chance to connect with the local community, it’s a perfect way to celebrate the season. Bring your family and friends for a day filled with laughter, learning, and the wonderful flavors of the harvest. Don’t miss out on this seasonal celebration at Salomon Farm—where great food and fun await!

🍂✨ Weekend Fun Awaits in Fort Wayne! ✨🍂 Get ready for an amazing weekend filled with fall festivities, family fun, and spooky adventures! Here’s what you can’t miss: Fall Harvest Festival at Salomon Farms - Dive into the spirit of autumn with hayrides, farm animals, mazes and so much more! Season Opening for the Haunted Castle and Black Forest - Dare to enter? Experience spine-tingling thrills and chills as the haunted attractions return for another season of frights! Elsa and Anna at Icing for Izaac - Join the beloved sisters for a magical experience filled with fun and sweet treats! Perfect for little princesses! Apple Jubilee at Kekionga Craft Co - Celebrate the apple harvest with delicious cider, tasty treats, and bbq sauce. A must-visit for apple lovers! YLNI Lead the Vote - Engage in meaningful conversations about voting and empower your voice. Let’s make a difference together! Free Family Fishing Day at Promenade - Grab your rods and reels for a day of fishing fun! Perfect for families looking to bond in nature. Bridal Showcase at the Bell Mansion - Dreaming of the perfect wedding? Discover local vendors, stunning venues, and endless inspiration to make your big day unforgettable! Mark your calendars and gather your friends and family for a weekend packed with fun and festivities! Fall Harvest Festival: 817 W DuPont Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46825 2024 Season Opening of Haunted Castle & Black Forest: 8965 Auburn Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46825 Elsa & Anna At Icing For Izaac: 243 Airport North Office Park Fort Wayne, IN 46825 Apple Jubilee at Kekionga Craft Co: 7328 Maysville Rd Fort Wayne, IN 46815 YLNI: Lead the Vote: 302 E Berry St Fort Wayne, IN 46802 Free Family Fishing Day: 202 Superior St Fort Wayne, IN 46802 Bridal Showcase at the Bell Mansion: 420 W Wayne St Fort Wayne, 46802

Hummus Republic is located at 1030 S Thomas Rd STE 117 in Orchard Crossing Shopping off Illinois Rd, Fort Wayne, IN. Right next to Crumbl Cookie. What to expect from Hummus Republic Hummus Republic, a fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant, is making waves from the West Coast with its fresh and flavorful dishes. Founded by Nir Giat, the restaurant first opened its doors in the beach city of El Segundo, California, just above Long Beach and Manhattan Beach. Since then, they have expanded to other locations, with their first franchise opening in Stockton, California. Described by some in Stockton as a "Middle Eastern Chipotle," Hummus Republic offers a unique dining experience that combines the convenience of fast food with the health benefits of Mediterranean cuisine. Giat, who was raised in a Mediterranean household, got inspiration from his upbringing to create a menu that celebrates the flavors and traditions of the region. From their website Hummus Republic customers can build their own bowls or wraps with a base of fresh, different flavored hummus spreads, topped with a variety of protein options such as grilled chicken, falafel, or vegan beef. You can also choose from an array of toppings and dressings to go on your wrap or salad. The menu also features a selection of salads, soups, and sides like sweet potato fries, hummus + pita chips, and falafel. What sets Hummus Republic apart from other fast-casual restaurants is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. All of their dishes are made in-house daily, ensuring that customers receive a delicious and nutritious meal every time they visit. With a focus on promoting a healthy lifestyle and a strong sense of community. Whether you're a fan of Mediterranean cuisine or looking for a healthier alternative to fast food, Hummus Republic is definitely worth a visit.

Get ready for a weekend full of fun events in Fort Wayne! Don't miss the 2024 Art This Way Art Crawl Alley Bash, where you can explore local art and enjoy live music. Head over to J&L Pickin’ Patch for the Fall Flower Festival and pick out some beautiful blooms. And of course, the 49th Annual Johnny Appleseed Festival is a must-see to transport back to the 1800s and celebrate the legacy of John Chapman. Plus, don't forget to check out the Fall Bonsai Show for some stunning miniature trees. There's something for everyone to enjoy this weekend! 2024 Art This Way At Crawl: Alley Bash: 904 S Calhoun St Fort Wayne, IN 46802 Fall Flower Festival: 3522 Nuttman Ave Fort Wayne, IN 46802 49th Annual Johnny Appleseed Festival: 1502 Harry W. Baals Dr Fort Wayne, IN 46805 Fall Bonsai Show: 1100 S Calhoun St Fort Wayne, IN 46802