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What began as a two-person wallpaper hanging
business operating out of a home has become the state's largest
retail wallpaper store and Francis Tuttle's BIS department has
been there to help them all along the way.
Bill and Marge Washam of Oklahoma City's M & W Wallpaper
began meeting with Don Scheirman, Francis Tuttle's Small Business
Management (SBM) Coordinator, more than 15 years ago when they
were hanging wallpaper for apartment complexes. It wasn't long
before they began to consider moving into retail sales and found
Scheirman's advice to be "invaluable."
"Anytime we needed to make a major decision, we would call
Don," Marge Washam said. "He was a neutral party who
not only understood the needs of small business but also knew
us and how we operated and gave great advice. It is really nice
to have someone we can call on to serve as a sounding board for
our ideas. It has been invaluable and has saved us from some
big business mistakes."
The Washams began attending workshops offered through Scheirman's
SBM program and received information that proved to be very helpful
in running their business.
"The speakers were excellent and provided a great deal of
information and resources. We met experts in several areas that
helped us with a variety of issues," Bill Washam said. "We
were also able to network with other small business owners who
were dealing with similar business problems and issues. It gave
us a safe place to exchange information and get help from other
business owners."
Most recently, Scheirman has worked with the Washams to outline
a long-term strategic plan. The Washams agree it is difficult
to take time to plan for the future and not just "put out
fires." But they found that having objectives and strategies
in place has helped them achieve their goals and keep their priorities
straight. They were so pleased with the process, they're planning
to begin the process again to set new goals.
"I wouldn't recommend that anyone start a business without
consulting with someone like Don. Most new businesses fail within
the first year," Marge said. "We're really fortunate
to have a place like Francis Tuttle to provide the kind of support
we have received through the years."
For more information about the Small Business
Management Program, contact Don Scheirman at 405-717-4746
posted 10/3/2001
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