Client Name:
Rick & Ann Lostutter
SBDC Counselor:
Linda Wood, William Cord
SBDC Training:
The Lostuttter’s received one-on-one counseling when they relocated back to Indiana in 2004 from their California based operations.
Business Name:
The Lostutter’s are true entrepreneurs and are actually involved in three local businesses: ReAL Design Visual , ReAL Design Kitchen & Bath and 51% owners of the Madison Trolleys, Inc.
Type of Business:
ReAL Design – Visual Design:
Rick Lostutter emphasizes that ReAL Design is about real life and innovative problem solving is the foundation. With a strong history of traditional graphic design training and more than fifteen years of experience working with top-tier clients, Rick Lostutter initiated ReAL Design in May, 1998 and has focused on designing experiences that are both successful and satisfying for the people that actually use the products they help to produce. Understanding the needs of these people is the first step toward designing successful experiences and products. Rick is physically located in Madison, IN but major clients include Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, Monterey Bay Aquarium, etc.
ReAL Design – Kitchen & Bath:
Ann Weilbaker-Lostutter began designing kitchens in 1986 in Louisville, KY, out of a small showroom featuring high-end European kitchens and baths. She eventually moved to the Boston/Providence area, then on to several California locations, gaining experience and expanding her knowledge. In 1999 she began operating as an independent design consultant. Now based in Madison, IN, her projects are primarily within the Louisville/Indianapolis/Cincinnati areas. She specializes in planning kitchen/dining room/family room areas, as well as master bath projects and other space planning challenges.
Madison Trolleys, Inc.
After being back home in Indiana for a year and becoming involved in community activities, Rick and Ann Lostutter, who have experience in tourism-related activities, became 51% owners of two Madison trolleys. Partnering with a Madison City Councilman who is a former Main Street Director and a Fudge Shop owner who also owns a downtown Bed & Breakfast, the foursome have expanded the trolley operation to revolve around many festivals and events and have grown the operation from a summer seasonal business to a year round operation.
Number of employees: 2
First SBDC Visit: April 29, 2004
Assistance Requested:
General business startup and expansion information for Indiana .
Assistance Given:
Demographics, zoning issues, permits, business plan outline, SBA/SBDC materials.
Results/Impacts:
The Lostutter team continues to grow and thrive and give back to their community. Understanding the local markets has been crucial in the process of integrating ReAL Design into a new community.
Quote:
“The SBDC has proven to be a dedicated group, focussed on helping us overcome the challenges of expanding into new markets while staying true to our core business objectives. What a great resource for transitioning businesses!”
