How to Be a Franchise Owner

 
Today's "I Want to Be" Series features Albesa Heredia, and Yadira Chapa, partners and franchise owners of Gamin' Ride.  Albesa (who answered our questions) has three wonderful children: Walo (9), Diego (6) and AlbiPau is (4) and was previously an auditor for a CPA firm before becoming a full-time mom and franchise owner. 



How long have you owned a franchise?
 
We started the franchise process in June 2010 and opened our Gamin' Ride franchise in November 2010.

What led you to pursue a franchise?
After reviewing the many steps involve in the developing a business, I came to realize that it was to my benefit to pursue a franchise due to the experience, knowledge and research they have previously done. 

Are you full time or part time?  If part-time, do you anticipate switching to full time?
I do it full time.

How do you market your franchise?

Months before opening, we did some research to find the best media to reach our potential clients. We came to discover that local magazines and social magazines are very popular among our market. We currently have a one year contract with a couple of local magazines as part of our marketing campaign. Social media also seems to work well. In addition,  by  providing excellent customer service we have established a word of mouth referral process.

My kids are also having a lot of fun with Gamin' Ride. They are always trying to do marketing. They talk about Gamin' Ride with anybody they know or meet. My two sons are always trying to find new games and ways to promote Gamin' Ride with their friends.

What is your favorite part of the franchise?

Gamin' Ride franchise offers many benefits. It is very  flexible; I can work from home and I enjoy running the business along with my family. My favorite part is not having as many fixed expenses as many other business.  I worked as an auditor for a CPA firm before I became a full-time mom.  My previous job was not as exciting as having the challenge of pushing a new business and proving to our clients that we are the best option when it comes to entertainment.  Gamin' Ride does not just do birthday parties, we strive to create great experiences and unforgettable memories.

It is just like any other job but a lot more fun and exciting. With the franchise we have chosen, we basically know the kids want to have a party with Gamin' Ride, and we definitely want to make all these kids feel special. We work hard every day to strive for excellence, and we know we accomplish it while at the end of each party everybody is thrilled watching the slide show of the party.

What one question do you get most from people about your franchise?

"How did you find this type of business?"

(See "recommended sites" below for the answer.) 

What one myth or misconception do you want to dispel about owning a franchise?

That all your profit goes into royalties, and also that franchisors do not usually consider your opinion. This is not the case with Gamin’ Ride!  We get support and coaching from corporate.  When you open a new business, there is a huge list of questions, and, for the most part, corporate already has the answer.  Also, the franchiser has created forums in which the franchisees can communicate with each other and share personal experiences as well as helpful advice.  There is also continued training, newsletters, and monthly calls, so we can all share new ideas or concerns.

 What advice do you have for others who want to get into a similar opportunity?

My only advice before owning a franchise is to do market research about the franchise you have chosen. Once you decide what franchise you are opening, advocate 100 percent of your passion to make it succeed.

 What is the first step?
Do your own self profile to determine if the business fits your personality and talents.

What websites or books do you recommend for tips?
I recommend Entrepreneur and Hot Franchise sites. These websites give you a variety of information, such as capital investment required to start your own franchise.  


Want to know more? Check out Gamin' Ride's website or find them on Twitter and Facebook!

(Have an idea for our next "I Want to Be" article? Contact us with the work-at-home career that you want to know more about. Have a great career and want to share? Tell us about it!)

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