Assisted by ASBTDC at Arkansas State University-Mountain Home
Consultant Kyle Davidson
Family Moves to Arkansas to Pursue Mini Golf Dream
When Scott and Brandi Tavegia first dreamed of owning a miniature golf business, they never imagined it would happen over 1,000 miles away from their home in Maryland. However, a hiking adventure in Arkansas led the couple to discover Mountain Home, where their dream would come true.
The Tavegias opened Little T’s Mini Golf & More in Mountain Home May 13, 2022.
Avid mini golfers, the couple has played over 70 courses around the country together. For six years, they dreamed of creating a business out of their pastime.
When their previous plans to take over the abandoned Stansbury Sports Park in Dundalk, Md., didn’t happen, they were discouraged but kept the dream alive.
1st Visit to State Gets Ball Rolling
A May 2021 visit to Arkansas to hike, kayak, and explore was the couple’s first-ever trip to the state. Passing through Mountain Home, a property caught their attention. When they inquired, they learned about another property, a former miniature golf course that closed due to the death of the previous owner.
Scott and Brandi decided to move from Maryland to Arkansas and seize the opportunity to revive their dream by purchasing, renovating, and rebranding the old course.
Having worked previously with the Maryland SBDC, they quickly reached out to the local Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center for assistance planning their proposed business venture.
Across the miles, the couple began consulting with Kyle Davidson of the Arkansas State University-Mountain Home ASBTDC in June 2021.
One of the first challenges was obtaining capital financing for re-opening a shuttered business. Davidson, a former banker, helped the Tavegias throughout the financing process.
In addition to providing market research and assistance revising their business plan, he helped them back up their projections with data.
“We are so thankful for Kyle at the ASBTDC for his guidance and wisdom, challenging us to refine our business plan to prepare for the loan process,” said Scott. “We are honored to work with him and learn!”
The Tavegias also found a local banking partner who understood the vision and goals for their business, Jacob Bruggeman. “Jacob from Arvest Bank was and has been a rock star throughout this entire process. We so appreciate his professionalism, encouragement, and support as we worked through the SBA loan process,” they commented.
With Small Business Administration-backed financing secured, the Tavegias closed on the sale in February, then moved to Arkansas in March. Next, they dived into restoring the neglected course. Cleaning, removing debris, landscaping, and installing new greens breathed life back into the property.
Additionally, the Tavegias started branding, marketing, and advertising Little T’s. Long before opening, they began building awareness that they were bringing mini golf back to Mountain Home. They talked frequently with Davidson about ways to effectively market their business in the area.
Less Screen Time, More Laughter and Conversation
Scott Tavegia is an Army veteran who served for eight years before a successful career as a metro account manager with a national retailer where he oversaw 16 locations. Brandi Tavegia has extensive experience leading merchandising teams and currently oversees all facets of the guest experience for a regional grocer.
They want to build Little T’s around family and community.
The Tavegias strongly believe “God’s purposeful delay” of their dream is now allowing them to fulfill their mission of offering affordable outdoor entertainment while allowing those with special needs the ability to work, feel valued, and be accepted in the community. They plan to offer job opportunities for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities.
To learn more about Little T’s Mini Golf & More, visit littletsminigolf.com.
Kyle Davidson, May 17, 2022
(Photos courtesy of the Tavegia family)
