Segars Sports II
2956 Hwy 68 North, Sandersville GA, 31082
Convenience, pawn and sporting goods store opended in 2019
What inspired you to start your own business?
My Uncle Thomas Daniel ran a pawn shop and that is when and where my love for guns and trading began. I have since childhood always wanted to open my own sporting goods shop and I have been blessed with many local community members and businesses who have helped me fulfill my dream of being my own boss in a community in which I call home.
What inspires your work and what sets you apart from everyone else?
I love anything outdoor related. I do not get to enjoy it as much as I would like due to having four children who keep me very busy but in my spare time I do encourage them to tag along with me hunting and fishing. My children are my inspiration. I want them to see that hard work pays off and you can do anything you put your mind to.
What is your background and how did you develop the skills to start your business?
I began working for my Grandpa who owned a local small construction company when I was the age of 8. I earned a degree in History from Georgia College and State University. I worked as a teacher in neighboring counties before leaving and working as a residential insurance adjuster for Georgia Farm Bureau. The love of sporting goods came natural because what little boy did not grow up with a love for the outdoors. The skill to run my own business is something I am still learning. I have been very fortunate to have local small business owners help me along the way.
What has been your biggest success to date?
To date my biggest success is being able to stay open during this COVID pandemic.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Biggest challenge is supply and demand. With COVID products are hard to obtain due to national shortages and when products are available the increase in cost has been another challenge.
Which small businesses are you inspired by?
My Grandpa Van Dollar ran his own construction company for many years. I grew up seeing the relationship he had with local community members and his love for helping others .
If you could go back to the beginning knowing what you know now, what would you have done differently?
I would not have waited so long to fulfill my dreams of owning my own business.
What’s your best advice for someone who wants to start their own business?
Listen to other small business owners. They have been where you are and can help you and never be afraid to reach out to any of them and ask for tips and tricks to help your business succeed. We are all in this together.