Stakes, Policies, and the Price of Hustle - April 11, 2025

Hey Future Owner,

Hustle, Stakes, and a Policy Line

Today was a non-stop kind of day—the kind where you blink and suddenly it's "closing time," whatever that means anymore.

With only one team member on deck (and only until 2pm because of his "real" job), we hit the ground running. The truck was loaded and ready by the time he showed up, and we didn’t waste a second.

First Stop: Policy Boundaries

Our first job was a small last-minute tables and chairs order. Just as we were unloading, the customer casually asked if everything could go down to the basement. For the first time, I had to draw the line: “Sorry, it’s against policy.” We dropped the gear in the garage and were out in 15 minutes. A little awkward, but necessary.

Second Stop: Celebration of Life Setup

Next, we set up two high peak tents for a celebration of life. Everything went smoothly—solid communication, no hiccups. We were in and out in about 90 minutes. Efficient and respectful. Just how we like it.

Final Stop: Baby Shower Package

Then came our 40-guest package drop-off for a baby shower. This one’s got me thinking hard about our pricing model. The install was in a spacious garage, so layout wasn’t an issue—but the ground? Brutal. Super soft, and there was a water line lurking. I had to pull and re-stake at least ten times to find a secure spot. If not for that last stake fiasco, we would’ve been back by 1:30pm, like clockwork. Instead, we rolled in at 1:44pm. So close.

After Hours That Aren’t Really “After”

Back at the warehouse, I dove headfirst into a flood of emails. Inquiries just keep coming. I tried to sneak out early for family time—but let’s be honest, I was still glued to my inbox until the unofficial "closing time." And even that’s just when the phone stops ringing and the emails take over. We’re open 24/7... because small business doesn’t clock out.

Closing Thoughts

Today was one of those days that reminds me why systems and boundaries matter—and also why pricing needs to reflect the reality of the work. Packages might need a rethink, but for now, we’re keeping it moving, one job at a time.

Until tomorrow…