In a heartening initiative, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), the Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, has embarked on a mission to spotlight small businesses across Iowa, recognizing their vital role in local economies. This week, she honored The Great Hall of Royal in Clay County as her latest "Small Business of the Week," a move that not only celebrates entrepreneurship but also highlights the impact that local businesses can have on community cohesion.
The Great Hall of Royal, owned by the Ricke family, stands as a prime example of how small businesses can transform spaces and enhance community engagement. “In 2018, the Ricke family didn’t just start a business—they built a community space where folks gather to make memories,” said Senator Ernst. This sentiment captures the essence of why such spaces are critical; they provide not just venues but also social hubs where people can come together for life’s significant moments.
Located in what was once the St. Louis Catholic Church, The Great Hall of Royal has been meticulously renovated to preserve its historic charm while meeting modern needs. Sara and Matt Ricke, the visionary couple behind this endeavor, dedicated countless weekends to refurbishing the property, thereby creating a beloved destination for weddings and other special events. Their commitment to both the preservation of a local landmark and the creation of a versatile event space illustrates an emerging trend among small business owners: the fusion of nostalgia with contemporary utility.
The transition of their family business has also been marked by inclusivity, as they welcomed their daughters—Jackie, Lexi, and Becky—into the partnership this past March. This kind of generational involvement is significant for small businesses, providing both continuity and fresh perspectives. As Sara and Matt gear up for The Great Hall of Royal’s fifth anniversary, they also symbolize the resilience and innovation that characterize small businesses nationwide.
The benefits of recognizing and celebrating such businesses extend well beyond the immediate communities. For small business owners looking to replicate the success of The Great Hall of Royal, there are key takeaways to consider:
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Community Focus: Like the Rickes, fostering a sense of community can set a business apart. Engaging local residents and creating spaces that facilitate gatherings can catalyze a loyal customer base.
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Historic Preservation: The blend of modern utility with historic charm can attract customers. Preserving structure integrity while updating facilities not only honors local heritage but also offers uniqueness that can draw in clientele.
- Family Involvement: Encouraging family participation can inject new ideas into the business. It also strengthens personal investment in the company’s success.
Despite these successes, small business owners should also be aware of potential challenges involved in similar ventures. Renovating historic properties may require navigating complex regulations or incurring unforeseen costs. Additionally, as community spaces become more popular, competition can increase, requiring ongoing innovation and marketing efforts to maintain relevancy and attract clients.
Senator Ernst’s initiative to acknowledge and reward small businesses across Iowa reflects a growing understanding of their importance in economic development. By featuring businesses such as The Great Hall of Royal, she not only gives them visibility but also inspires other entrepreneurs to consider how they might contribute to their communities in meaningful ways.
As Chair Ernst continues her campaign to celebrate small businesses in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties, she encourages everyone to support local enterprises. The Great Hall of Royal’s story offers a template for success: a dedication to community, an innovative approach to business, and a commitment to preserving local culture.
For more details on the recognition of The Great Hall of Royal and other initiatives, visit Senator Ernst’s press release.
Image Via Envato: itchaznong
