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US BUSINESS NEWS

Big Horn: Striving to Elevate Standards in Utah Roofing and Window Replacement

US Business News Staff US Business News Staff on September 25, 2025

Home improvement is never just about shingles, siding, or windows. It is about creating safe, beautiful, and lasting spaces where families can thrive. For Big Horn, a trusted name among Utah window and roofing companies, that philosophy has defined every project, every handshake, and every effort made to homeowners.

Big Horn has steadily built its reputation by delivering craftsmanship that goes beyond surface appearances. As one of the reputable residential roofing contractors, the company understands that a roof is more than protection from the elements. It is the backbone of a home’s durability, energy efficiency, and value. Pair that expertise with high-quality home window replacement, and Big Horn has established itself as the preferred partner for homeowners seeking both function and beauty.

From Local Roots to Trusted Leadership

The story of Big Horn starts with a simple but ambitious vision: to provide Utah homeowners with a roofing and window company they could rely on for integrity and lasting results. Unlike many contractors who treat projects as transactions, Big Horn was founded on building relationships. That commitment shows in the countless referrals, repeat clients, and word-of-mouth recommendations that have fueled its growth.

The founder’s personal background in construction and customer service shaped the company’s DNA. Early in the journey, there were obstacles familiar to many small businesses, from building a reliable crew to gaining traction against larger competitors. But by leaning into craftsmanship, transparency, and consistent communication, Big Horn managed to turn those challenges into stepping stones. Today, it stands out as a residential roofing company that has earned trust across Utah neighborhoods.

Roofing Expertise That Lasts

Homeowners searching for roofing experts will find more than a service provider in Big Horn. They will find a team that takes the time to educate clients, explain material options, and ensure every installation is built to withstand Utah’s unique climate. Whether tackling storm damage or planning a complete residential re-roofing, Big Horn brings a commitment to precision and reliability to the table.

Recognition in the industry has followed. Over the years, the company has earned both formal accolades and informal rewards: glowing testimonials from families who feel safe again under a sturdy roof, and homeowners who see their property’s curb appeal improve. These stories matter just as much as awards because they reflect the trust Big Horn has worked hard to nurture.

Window Solutions with Lasting Value

Big Horn is not only a roofing specialist but also a leader among residential window replacement companies. Energy efficiency and style converge when a home has the right windows, and Big Horn ensures both are addressed with modern solutions. From Utah window replacement projects to full upgrades with Pella windows, the team delivers results that homeowners can likely see and feel in their monthly energy bills.

Whether it’s Pella storm windows for extra protection or stylish Pella replacement windows, the company brings a full catalog of options designed to fit diverse budgets and preferences. Just like its roofing division, the window team focuses on education and guidance, helping clients choose the ideal solutions rather than relying on cookie-cutter answers.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for Growth

Big Horn’s aspirations reach beyond immediate projects. The company envisions becoming Utah’s most recognized name for both roofing and windows, expanding its reach while keeping its local values intact. Future goals include enhancing customer education resources, investing in sustainable materials, and continuing to train crews in the latest installation techniques.

What sets Big Horn apart is not just its technical expertise but its commitment to the homeowner experience. Each project represents more than a contract; it represents a relationship, often lasting long after the job is complete.

The Takeaway

In an industry where cutting corners can be all too common, Big Horn has proven that integrity, precision, and a customer-first approach are still key building materials. For Utah families searching for residential roofing companies or reliable window installers, the company continues to set a standard that others may look to follow.

Whether you are protecting your home with a roof designed for durability or elevating your space with energy-efficient windows, Big Horn offers more than a service. It offers peace of mind.

The Power of Presence: Dana Lekus at the Heart of Pageantry and Artistry

US Business News Staff US Business News Staff on September 25, 2025

Dana Lekus is an internationally recognized makeup artist, beauty director, and trainer with over 10 years of experience in the fashion and beauty industry. She is the winner of the IBFA 2025 award for Best International Makeup & Brow Artist, a laureate of the International Beauty Awards XXIII in the categories Top Makeup Trainer and Beauty Community Leader, and a silver finalist at the IBI Awards 2025 in the Best Glam category for her signature project “Celestial Muse.”

Dana has volunteered as a beauty expert at top-tier fashion shows including New York Fashion Week, Miami Swim Week, as a volunteer Beauty Director at Orlando International Fashion Week, Beverly Hills Fashion Week, and Florida Men’s Fashion Week. She is also a certified trainer and technologist for international beauty brands, a judge at global beauty competitions, and the founder of her own beauty studio and volunteer glam team.

The Miss & Mister Supranational USA 2025 competition became one of the most vibrant and professionally organized events of the year — and Dana Lekus was honored to be a part of it. This national pageant serves as the official U.S. qualifier for the world-renowned international competitions Miss Supranational and Mister Supranational, held annually in Poland.

Dana Lekus had the great honor of serving as the event’s official Beauty Director and Beauty Sponsor. She led the backstage operations and supervised a team of makeup artists, hairstylists, and assistants. Together, they handled the full visual production — from concept development to final hair and makeup — for both the female and male contestants.

It was an intensive and inspiring process. Dana Lekus’s beauty team worked with dozens of finalists, creating looks for runway segments, photoshoots, gala dinners, and live broadcasts. The competition included both formal eveningwear presentations and beachwear segments. It was especially important to tailor each look to the contestant’s individuality, the stage lighting, and the specific demands of each segment.

This required a high level of flexibility and a refined sense of balance between boldness, versatility, and natural elegance — both on camera and on stage.

The Power of Presence: Dana Lekus at the Heart of Pageantry and Artistry

Photo Courtesy: Stanislav Kozub
(The volunteer glam team led by Dana Lekus — official Beauty Sponsor of Miss & Mister Supranational USA 2025 — on stage at the Grand Finale alongside the winners)

This year, the title of Miss Supranational USA 2025 was awarded to Marvelous Sanyaolu from Louisiana, and Mister Supranational USA 2025 went to Christopher Cox from Hawaii. Both finalists represented the U.S. on the international stage: Marvelous placed in the Top 12 and earned the title of Miss Supranational America, while Christopher proudly represented the country at the global male finals.

For the male contestants, Dana Lekus’s volunteer glam team provided complete grooming and styling support — including hairstyling, makeup, skincare, and complexion work — all carefully tailored for stage lighting, camera-ready finishes, and the demands of high-definition production. Men’s grooming at this level is often underestimated, yet it requires its own technical expertise and aesthetic precision.

Dana is deeply grateful to the organizers for their trust and the opportunity to be part of such a prestigious platform.

Participation in Miss & Mister Supranational USA 2025 was not just a professional experience — it was a meaningful contribution to uncovering individuality, building confidence, and empowering every finalist through beauty, image, and the shared energy of her team.

In 2025, Dana Lekus and her team also proudly served as official beauty sponsors of the prestigious Miss Peru USA pageant — a cultural celebration that honors Peruvian heritage, beauty, and female empowerment within the Peruvian-American community.

Held in a festive and elegant atmosphere, the event brought together finalists from across the country, as well as distinguished guests from the worlds of fashion, media, diplomacy, and culture. The finalists competed not only in beauty and stage presence but also in confidence, leadership, and cultural pride.

For the entire 10 days of the competition, Dana Lekus and her dedicated glam team supported the contestants with makeup and hairstyling for every key occasion — including photo shoots, press conferences, private galas, rehearsals, and the grand finale. Their consistent presence, professionalism, and care allowed the contestants to feel confident, radiant, and ready for every moment on and off the stage.

The Power of Presence: Dana Lekus at the Heart of Pageantry and Artistry

Photo Courtesy: Stanislav Kozub
(Dana Lekus and her beauty team at the Grand Finale of Miss & Mister Supranational USA 2025, together with show producer Hugo Chavez Alvarado. Team members: Yulia Morska, Svitlana Medvedieva, Eleonora Koniukh, Iunona Akhmedova, Aya Mariia Vasileva, Kristina Moroz.)

Dana led her volunteer team with precision and heart, offering:

– Stage-ready beauty looks aligned with the event’s visual identity

– On-site support for quick changes, long hours, and high-pressure moments

– Emotional encouragement and technical expertise throughout the week

Dana’s participation in Miss Peru USA 2025 was more than just a beauty collaboration — it was a contribution to cultural representation, empowerment, and the spirit of excellence. The experience once again highlighted her role as a mentor, leader, and trusted expert in the global beauty community.

“It’s not just about beauty — it’s about identity, culture, and the power of

self-expression.”

— Dana Lekus

Advice for Aspiring Beauty Artists

From Dana Lekus

Starting out is always exciting — and a little scary. You’re full of energy, but not always sure which direction to go. So here’s my main advice: don’t be afraid to follow your own path. There will be mistakes, doubts, and comparisons — but that’s all part of growth.

Never stop learning. Even after 10 years in the industry, I still learn something new every day. Don’t get stuck in one style — study materials, trends, anatomy, and even the psychology of working with clients. It will make you a more flexible and in-demand artist.

Develop your eye and pay attention to details. Train your visual taste — look at magazines, exhibitions, fashion shows. Beauty starts with observation and deep visual awareness.

Treat people with respect and sincerity. Success is not just about technique — it’s also about your attitude. Clients remember not only the final result, but how you made them feel.

Value your work from day one. Set healthy boundaries. Don’t be afraid to say “no” when your professional space is being disrespected. It’s not about pride — it’s about self-respect and respect for the craft.

Build a portfolio and surround yourself with the right people. Look for those who inspire you, who believe in you. Remember: you’re not just an artist — you’re a creator, a guide, a therapist. Through your work, you can transform not only appearances but also someone’s inner state.

The beginning is never about being “perfect.” It’s about being authentic. And if you walk this path with love — everything will come together. I know that for sure.

When beauty meets vision, transformation becomes inevitable.” или “Her artistry is a mirror that reflects not just beauty, but purpose.”

Kyle Bigley Shows Why AI-Powered SMS Marketing Is the Next Frontier for Economic Efficiency in DTC

US Business News Staff US Business News Staff on September 25, 2025

By: Joshua Bondell

The direct-to-consumer (DTC) industry is facing significant challenges. Customer acquisition costs have risen by more than 200% over the past eight years. iOS 14.5 has reduced Facebook’s targeting capabilities. Email open rates are declining, and inflation is putting pressure on margins.

In this evolving landscape, DTC brands can’t afford to spend on marketing that doesn’t provide measurable ROI. They need every channel to work harder, smarter, and more efficiently than ever before.

Kyle Bigley, the founder of TxtCart, believes he’s found a solution: AI-powered SMS marketing that doesn’t just recover lost sales, but may help transform how efficiently brands generate revenue.

“We’re not just trying to build better SMS marketing,” Kyle explains. “We’re building the future of economic efficiency in DTC.”

The Economics of Traditional DTC Marketing Are Broken

To understand why AI-powered SMS is so promising, it’s important to first recognize how traditional DTC marketing has struggled.

The average DTC brand now spends $29 to acquire a customer who might spend $50 on their first purchase. Factor in product costs, fulfillment, and overhead, and many brands are just about breaking even on first-time customers. They’re counting on lifetime value and repeat purchases.

But here’s the challenge: most customers never make it to that second purchase. Cart abandonment rates are commonly around 70%. Email marketing, once a reliable tool for retention, now sees open rates of about 20% and click-through rates of just 2.3%. Brands are spending more to acquire customers while getting less value from each acquisition.

“The old playbook doesn’t work anymore,” Kyle says. “Brands are struggling to acquire customers, then watching a large portion of them abandon their carts. It’s becoming economically unsustainable.”

This is where the economics get particularly interesting. Traditional SMS marketing platforms charge based on volume. Send more messages, pay more money. This creates a potential misalignment where the platform profits from sheer volume, not necessarily from results.

Kyle noticed this structural issue and decided to approach it differently.

The AI Efficiency Revolution

TxtCart’s approach to AI-powered SMS marketing is distinct from anything else in the market. Instead of just automating message delivery, Kyle has developed what he calls “agentic SMS marketing”—a system that can think, adapt, and optimize in real-time.

“Most platforms are still using manual or rules-based systems,” Kyle explains. “You set up workflows that say ‘if this, then that’ and hope they work. We’re building AI that actually understands context, can handle objections, and knows when to escalate to humans.”

Here’s how this contributes to economic efficiency: Instead of hiring customer service reps, sales associates, and retention specialists, TxtCart’s AI handles many of these tasks automatically. It can answer product questions, address shipping concerns, negotiate pricing, and even upsell customers based on their behavior and preferences.

The results are impressive from an efficiency perspective. Brands using TxtCart see an average of 21% of their total sales attributed to SMS conversations. But more importantly, they’re achieving this without increasing headcount, without raising their customer acquisition costs, and without the overhead that typically comes with scaling customer communications.

The Performance-Based Pricing Revolution

But Kyle’s biggest innovation might be TxtCart’s performance-based pricing model for automated flows. Instead of charging brands regardless of results, TxtCart only gets paid when they actually generate revenue for their customers.

“We eat our own dog food,” Kyle says. “If we’re not generating revenue for our customers, we don’t deserve to get paid. This model removes all the risk for growing brands and perfectly aligns our incentives.”

This pricing model is feasible because of AI efficiency. Traditional SMS platforms need predictable monthly revenue to pay for their large teams of customer success managers, account executives, and support staff. TxtCart’s AI handles most of these functions automatically, allowing them to tie their revenue directly to customer success.

From an economic efficiency standpoint, this is a shift. DTC brands can now access enterprise-grade SMS marketing without any upfront risk. They only pay when the platform actually drives sales. It’s a clear example of performance-based marketing.

The Compound Effect of AI Efficiency

What makes AI-powered SMS marketing so powerful for DTC brands isn’t just the immediate ROI. It’s the long-term effects of efficiency gains across multiple areas of the business.

First, there’s the efficiency gain in customer communications. Instead of hiring customer service reps, brands can let TxtCart’s AI handle most inquiries automatically. The AI never sleeps and can handle unlimited conversations simultaneously.

Second, there’s the efficiency gain in conversion optimization. TxtCart’s AI learns from every conversation, constantly improving its ability to address objections and close sales.

Third, there’s the efficiency gain in customer data and insights. Every SMS conversation generates valuable data about customer preferences, pain points, and buying behavior that can inform decisions across all channels.

“We’re not just recovering abandoned carts,” Kyle explains. “We’re creating a feedback loop that makes the entire business more efficient.”

The Competitive Advantage of Early Adoption

Kyle believes that DTC brands who adopt AI-powered SMS marketing early will have a noticeable competitive advantage over those who stick with traditional approaches.

“The brands that figure this out first are going to be ahead in their markets,” he predicts. “When you can generate the same revenue with half the overhead, you can reinvest those savings into product development, inventory, or customer acquisition. It’s a compounding advantage.”

This is already playing out in TxtCart’s customer base. Brands that have embraced AI-powered SMS marketing are seeing not just higher conversion rates, but improved overall economics across their entire business. They’re spending less on customer service, generating more revenue per customer, and building stronger relationships with their audience.

The efficiency gains are so substantial that Kyle believes AI-powered SMS marketing will become essential for DTC brands within the next few years.

“Right now, we’re still early,” he says. “But I predict that within three years, every successful DTC brand will have some form of AI-powered conversational marketing. The brands that wait will be at a significant disadvantage.”

The Future of DTC Marketing Efficiency

Kyle’s vision for the future of DTC marketing goes beyond just SMS. He sees AI-powered conversational marketing as the foundation for a new era of economic efficiency in ecommerce.

“We’re building toward fully autonomous marketing that can handle everything from lead generation to customer support to retention,” he explains. “Imagine a system that can identify potential customers, engage them in personalized conversations, guide them through the purchase process, and then continue nurturing the relationship post-purchase. All without human intervention.”

This isn’t science fiction. TxtCart is already handling many of these functions for their customers. Their AI can identify high-intent customers, engage them with personalized messages, answer questions about products, and even negotiate on pricing to close sales.

The economic implications are profound. If AI can handle most customer-facing functions automatically, DTC brands can achieve much higher revenue per employee ratios and reinvest efficiency gains into product innovation and market expansion.

The Proof Is in the Numbers

Kyle isn’t just theorizing about the future of AI-powered marketing efficiency. He’s proving it with TxtCart’s own metrics. With $2.2 million in annual recurring revenue and just 5 full-time employees, TxtCart has achieved significant efficiency compared to many SaaS companies.

But the real proof is in the results for TxtCart’s customers. Over 9 figures in revenue generated for 3,000+ brands. An average of 21% of total sales attributed to SMS conversations.

“The numbers don’t lie,” Kyle says. “When you align AI efficiency with customer success, everyone wins. Our customers make more money, we make more money, and the entire ecosystem becomes more efficient.”

As DTC brands continue to face pressure on margins and customer acquisition costs, Kyle’s vision of AI-powered marketing efficiency isn’t just compelling. It’s becoming crucial for survival.

The brands that embrace this new frontier first will have a significant advantage. The ones that wait might find themselves competing with AI-powered efficiency they can’t match.

Press Contact

Kyle Bigley | Founder & CEO, TxtCart

Email: kyle@txtcartapp.com

Website: https://usetxtcart.io

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kylebigley

X: x.com/kylebigley

Big Horn: Raising the Standard for Utah Roofing and Window Replacement

US Business News Staff US Business News Staff on September 25, 2025

Home improvement is never just about shingles, siding, or windows. It is about creating safe, beautiful, and lasting spaces where families can thrive. For Big Horn, a trusted name among Utah window and roofing companies, that philosophy has defined every project, every handshake, and every promise made to homeowners.

Big Horn has steadily built its reputation by delivering craftsmanship that goes beyond surface appearances. As one of the leading residential roofing contractors, the company understands that a roof is more than protection from the elements. It is the backbone of a home’s durability, energy efficiency, and value. Pair that expertise with high-quality home window replacement, and Big Horn has positioned itself as the go-to partner for homeowners seeking both function and beauty.

From Local Roots to Trusted Leadership

The story of Big Horn starts with a simple but ambitious vision: to provide Utah homeowners with a roofing and window company they could depend on for integrity and lasting results. Unlike many contractors who treat projects as transactions, Big Horn was founded on building relationships. That commitment shows in the countless referrals, repeat clients, and word-of-mouth recommendations that have fueled its growth.

The founder’s personal background in construction and customer service shaped the company’s DNA. Early in the journey, there were obstacles familiar to many small businesses, from building a reliable crew to gaining traction against larger competitors. But by leaning into craftsmanship, transparency, and consistent communication, Big Horn turned those challenges into stepping stones. Today, it stands out as a residential roofing company that has earned trust across Utah neighborhoods.

Roofing Expertise That Lasts

Homeowners searching for roofing experts will find more than a service provider in Big Horn. They will find a team that takes the time to educate clients, explain material options, and ensure every installation is built to withstand Utah’s unique climate. Whether tackling storm damage or planning a complete residential re-roofing, Big Horn brings precision and reliability to the table.

Recognition in the industry has followed. Over the years, the company has earned both formal accolades and informal rewards: glowing testimonials from families who feel safe again under a sturdy roof, and homeowners who see their property’s curb appeal dramatically increase. These stories matter just as much as awards because they reflect the trust Big Horn has worked hard to cultivate.

Window Solutions with Lasting Value

Big Horn is not only a roofing specialist but also a leader among residential window replacement companies. Energy efficiency and style converge when a home has the right windows, and Big Horn ensures both are addressed with modern solutions. From Utah window replacement projects to full upgrades with Pella windows, the team delivers results that homeowners can see and feel in their monthly energy bills.

Whether it’s Pella storm windows for extra protection or stylish Pella replacement windows, the company brings a full catalog of options designed to fit diverse budgets and preferences. Just like its roofing division, the window team focuses on education and guidance, helping clients choose the best solutions rather than pushing cookie-cutter answers.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for Growth

Big Horn’s aspirations reach beyond immediate projects. The company envisions becoming Utah’s most recognized name for both roofing and windows, expanding its reach while keeping its local values intact. Future goals include enhancing customer education resources, investing in sustainable materials, and continuing to train crews in the latest installation techniques.

What sets Big Horn apart is not just its technical expertise but its heart for the homeowner experience. Each project represents more than a contract; it represents a relationship, often lasting long after the job is complete.

The Takeaway

In an industry where cutting corners can be all too common, Big Horn has proven that integrity, precision, and a customer-first approach are still the strongest building materials. For Utah families searching for residential roofing companies or reliable window installers, the company continues to set a standard that others aim to follow.

Whether you are protecting your home with a roof built to last or elevating your space with energy-efficient windows, Big Horn offers more than a service. It offers peace of mind.

Inside Smootheeze: A Homegrown Brand Making Smoothie Prep Smarter

US Business News Staff US Business News Staff on September 25, 2025

By: Ayeshah “Ice” Somani

Smoothie mornings used to mean clumped bananas, slimy spinach, and way too many apologies to the blender. With Smootheeze, Ross and Tess Nelson turned freezer frustration into something colorful, clean, and a lot more manageable.

This wasn’t a business idea born in a boardroom. It was born in a kitchen right after one too many smoothies failed. Ross and Tess Nelson, a couple in San Diego, were simply trying to make their healthy breakfast and kept running into the same problem: prepping smoothies was messier and more wasteful than it should be. That box of slimy spinach got tossed. Rummaging through bags of frozen fruit exposed a freezer-burned mess. And the frozen banana situation? A total hassle of wasteful plastic baggies and bricks of frozen bananas.

So, they built a solution. First for themselves, then for others. That solution became Smootheeze: bright, sustainable freezer trays that make meal prep easier, neater, and a lot more satisfying.

Made for Real Life (and Real Freezers)

The first thing Ross and Tess built was the Easy Banana Freeze Tray, a simple fix for a surprisingly annoying problem. Instead of hacking apart frozen banana clumps or wasting time with freezer bags, each peeled banana had its slot, stayed clean, and popped out easily. One tray, less stress.

Then came the Cube Tray: half-cup portions, color-coded, stackable, and topped with an airtight lid. Freezer prep began to feel doable. No guessing on portions, no spills, and no more single-use plastics. This quickly adapted the trays into a system: green for veggies, red for berries, and orange for tropical blends. Everything is visible. Everything is ready.

It didn’t just make smoothie prep easier; it also made it more enjoyable. What started as a personal fix became a kitchen essential for families and smoothie lovers everywhere. The banana tray especially became the go-to favorite. Turns out, once you try it, there’s no going back to freezer bags and banana blobs.

Some called it a “freezer game-changer.” Others said it helped their kids join the fun in the kitchen. What used to feel like a messy rush became a routine people could actually look forward to. Parents mentioned how the trays helped streamline school mornings. No more digging through freezer bags. Meal-preppers batch ingredients on Sunday and coast through the week. Some even prep smoothies for aging parents or blend them into post-workout routines. The trays aren’t just containers; they’ve become part of their lives now.

A Small Family Business with Big Intention

Smootheeze was built where the mess started, in their kitchen. Ross and Tess didn’t just design the trays; they lived the mess, fixed it, and sent the solution out from home.

Ross brought years of experience in brand strategy and storytelling. He knew that building something meaningful meant more than just making a product; it meant sharing a story people could see themselves in. Tess brought the kitchen wisdom, grounding every idea in real, everyday use. Together, they handled everything themselves: prototyping, testing, shipping, and customer support. Orders were packed with care in their garage, and each tray came out of trial, error, and a lot of late-night problem-solving.

They chose platinum-grade silicone, which is ultra-durable, food-safe, and plastic-free. No warping. No weird smells. Just trays that last for years, not months. Every detail, from the materials to the packaging, was carefully chosen.

Today, Smootheeze remains intentionally small. No cut corners. No overproduction. Just steady growth, thoughtful design, and values that still guide every step: function, simplicity, and sustainability. They’ve built a company that fits around their life and still leaves room for family, fun, and real life.

Staying Small Also Means Staying Connected

Smaller means Ross and Tess still answer customer emails, troubleshoot shipping issues, and even read every product review. That direct connection helps them stay in tune with customer needs and shapes the path for improving every detail of the business. It’s not about chasing scale. It’s about staying close to the people they’re building for.

What’s Next: Small Tray, Big Energy

Up next? Mini trays. Four quarter-cup portions, same colorful system, same no-drama design, just sized for smaller freezers, lighter routines, and a little budget-friendly flexibility.

Customers had been asking for something more compact. Some wanted to ease into prep life. Others didn’t have space for full-size trays. These mini trays are Smootheeze’s answer, and like everything else they’ve made, they started by asking, “Would we use this?” The minis also open the door for a new wave of users: college students with mini-fridges, young professionals trying smoothie prep for the first time, or smaller households that don’t need whole batches. With four color options, they’re also fun to mix, match, and personalize. It’s all about giving more people an easy, low-commitment way to get started.

Ross and Tess aren’t chasing trends. They’re still focused on real problems, solving them with care and purpose. The mini trays follow the same playbook: durable materials, innovative design, and freezer-friendly simplicity.

What started as a single messy freezer fix has now evolved into a growing set of tools that help people save time, waste less, and ultimately enjoy their smoothie routine.

Smarter trays, smoother days. Find your tray at smootheeze.co.

Daniel Bradshaw of Riverside Custom Outdoors: Building a Business from the Ground Up

US Business News Staff US Business News Staff on September 25, 2025

Entrepreneurship often begins with the recognition of a gap in the market. For Daniel Bradshaw, founder of Riverside Custom Outdoors, that moment came while working for other companies in the landscaping and hardscaping industry. He noticed a trend that didn’t sit right with him: homeowners were settling for uninspired outdoor projects and inconsistent service. Rather than accepting that as the norm, Bradshaw launched a business with a different mission: to raise the bar for design, service, and craftsmanship.

Today, Riverside Custom Outdoors is known across Midlothian, Henrico, Powhatan, and North Chesterfield for custom residential hardscape services that combine creativity with precision. The company is more than just a contractor; it represents the entrepreneurial drive to innovate in a field that is often overlooked in business media but essential to real estate, lifestyle, and community development.

A Design-First Approach

One of the most distinctive features of Riverside’s model is its emphasis on design. In many industries, customer service and design are treated as separate categories. Bradshaw saw an opportunity to integrate the two. His background as both a builder and a designer allowed him to communicate with clients in a way that most contractors could not. By treating hardscape projects as collaborative design experiences rather than transactional jobs, Riverside has positioned itself differently from competitors.

This approach has been especially valuable in projects like hardscape design and installation, where details matter. From patios and walkways to outdoor kitchens and fire pits, Riverside has demonstrated that function and aesthetics can be seamlessly blended. The result is a growing reputation not only for quality but also for customer satisfaction.

Competing with Larger Firms

Like many small businesses, Riverside started by competing with larger companies that had more marketing power, more staff, and more name recognition. Instead of trying to beat those competitors at scale, Riverside focused on trust and word-of-mouth reputation. The company committed to transparent pricing, direct communication, and reliable timelines.

In a business landscape where customer loyalty is often hard to secure, Riverside’s strategy worked. Homeowners appreciated being treated as partners rather than just clients, and referrals became the company’s strongest marketing tool. This lesson is one that resonates across industries: small businesses can thrive when they prioritize authenticity and quality over volume.

Premium Without the Premium Price Tag

The phrase “premium residential hardscape services” may sound like something reserved for luxury homes, but Riverside has challenged that perception. The company demonstrates that premium doesn’t always mean unattainable. By using efficient project management and clear design planning, Riverside shows clients how to maximize value without sacrificing style or durability.

This positioning has been particularly important as more homeowners see outdoor living spaces as essential. From a business perspective, Riverside has tapped into a growing market segment, where buyers want the best hardscape contractors but also expect affordability and transparency.

Lessons in Entrepreneurship

Riverside Custom Outdoors offers insights for entrepreneurs in any sector. The first lesson is the importance of identifying gaps. By noticing where other contractors fell short, whether in communication, design, or execution, Bradshaw created a company that could outperform through differentiation.

The second lesson is scalability through reputation. Rather than rushing into rapid expansion, Riverside has grown carefully, focusing on consistent results and building long-term trust in the communities it serves. In the era of digital reviews and community forums, that type of reputation management is as valuable as any marketing campaign.

Finally, Riverside demonstrates the value of blending creativity with business fundamentals. Too often, industries are viewed as either “creative” or “practical.” Hardscaping, like many trades, requires both. By treating outdoor projects as works of design while running the company with a business-minded approach, Riverside has shown how innovation happens at the intersection of skill and strategy.

Looking Ahead

The future of Riverside Custom Outdoors is rooted in the same entrepreneurial spirit that built it. Bradshaw plans to continue expanding the company’s offerings, from patios and walkways to full landscape design services, while keeping the small-town values that have defined its success.

For the business community, Riverside represents a powerful example of how localized service companies can grow into trusted brands. It’s not about disrupting an industry with flashy technology or venture capital; it’s about knowing your market, listening to your customers, and building something that lasts.

As the demand for outdoor living continues to grow, Riverside is positioned not only as one of the best hardscape contractors in Virginia but also as a case study in how thoughtful entrepreneurship can thrive in any sector.