1. Give us a brief history of your organization.
I graduated from University of Louisiana at Lafayette in Horticultural Science in 1997 and immediately founded a full-time business named Scapes, Inc. Started with humble beginnings, modest equipment and worked out of my house. Hired 2 guys that worked with me from job to job. I was fortunate to stay busy and added more crews and more equipment. In 2002, I built a new office and warehouse off I-49 next to Hub City Ford. It was great, being from St. Landry Parish, I was in between my existing customer base and the opportunity for new growth. Again, lot of luck and hard work, kept growing and found key employees to help expand the business. Years later, we simply ran out of room. In 2018, purchased 3 acres of property on the corner of South College Rd. and Market Place. We broke ground in 2020 and moved into our new office in January of this year. We have a 2,500 sq. ft. office and 5,000 sq. ft. warehouse. We have more space (bigger building and land) and we are especially enjoying the beauty of this place that we created.
2. What would you tell the rest of Acadiana makes you special?
I believe what makes my company special, is the way we pay attention to detail. It is the detail that separates you from others. It may take a little longer and you may have to use a little more material but doing it right the first time is of utmost importance and isn’t a cliché for nothing. Coach John Wooden once said “If you don’t have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?” I believe this wholeheartedly and is in the forefront of our business mindset. That is what our clients want and expect.
3. What are you most proud of?
What I am most proud of when it comes to my business is the fact that I started my business from scratch. Starting something on your own, working hard during the process and later becoming successful at it, just makes it so much sweeter. I have been blessed with great family support and a super incredible team of hard workers that are conscientious with the product they are putting out. Whether it be laborers, supervisors, or office staff, all give 110% and are so appreciative for the customer. Every day, I thank God for what I have been given. I have found my true passion.
4. Where do you see your organization in 10 years? What are your plans for the future?
I’m hoping to be doing the same thing for years to come. I know that it is not just about me. I am only good as the people that I have on my team. This is a humbling profession that keeps you grounded more days than none. I just take it one day at time.
5. 1A is making an impact as we take an active role in improving the community we live in. Our members are making an impact, too! – What does impact mean to you? How is your company making an impact?
We definitely make the community prettier. Giving back and doing specific projects for those that are less fortunate is important. My goal is to do more of that in the near future.