As a registered sonography and imaging professional, Darcy Pearson of Clarksville has performed ultrasounds for 10 years. In 2021, unhappy in the job she was in, she began brainstorming.
“I loved what I did and wanted to continue doing that while also spending more time with my family. I knew the closest places to us that offered keepsake ultrasound images were in Conway and Fort Smith, so it seemed like a perfect fit,” said Darcy.
With the assistance of the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center at Arkansas Tech University, she opened Ten Tiny Toes Imaging Studio on March 1, 2022.
At her new business, Darcy uses her ultrasound technician skills to let babies introduce themselves before they are born and create an experience for the entire family. Siblings, grandparents, and parents-to-be can all be part of that experience.
Pearson offers 3D and 4D ultrasound keepsake images and merchandise to celebrate baby’s upcoming arrival.
“The ASBTDC was a huge asset when I was starting my business. I was given information on how to estimate revenue versus cost of business, everything I needed to file in order to start my business, and help filing those things,” she said. “Any time I have had a question or needed help with something Ronda (Hawkins) has responded very quickly. She is incredibly knowledgeable and willing to help.”
Ten Tiny Toes opened seven months after Pearson began consulting with the ATU center. She recommends the no-cost services to new and current business owners.
“It’s certainly not easy running your own business,” she said. “But it is extremely rewarding when you see your hard work start to pay off! I would encourage anyone who is thinking of starting a business or even already has one to utilize the resources ASBTDC offers. It was invaluable to me, and I could not have done it without their help!”
Visit Ten Tiny Toes Imaging Studio at 1307 West Main Street in Clarksville or on Facebook.