Beach, sun & surfing are the focus of Lake Zurich business
An interview with Jeff Urso, owner of Beezer's Bungalow in Lake Zurich.
Q: Describe your business. What do you do?
A: We are a retail store that sells sunglasses, clothing, shoes, and accessories in the surf, skate, and beach-type lifestyle.
Q: What made you start your business?
A: I love the lifestyle and the brands we carry.
Q: What has been the most difficult obstacle in running or starting a small business?
A: Getting the word out to people that you exist has been the most challenging aspect of the business. We know people love the surf, beach, and sun lifestyle, but, want to make sure they know we are here and can bring them the brands and style they are looking for.
Q: What do you enjoy most about operating your business?
A: I enjoy bringing in the latest styles and being able to offer them to our customers.
Q: Is this what you pictured yourself doing when you were young?
A: Yes. Someone once said a long time ago that they pictured me running a small shop in the Caribbean and I thought that was the greatest compliment in the world.
Q: When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A: A rock star musician
Q: What keeps you up at night?
A: Trying to figure out how to reach the people that are interested and like the brands we carry.
Q: If you could give one tip to a rookie business owner, what would it be?
A: Set goals, be patient, be honest, and people will respond.
Q: What did you do before you opened the business?
A: I was a purchasing manager for a subcontractor. I also played music. I was a musician, playing guitar in various bands.
Q: Who do you look up to?
A: I look up to Steve Jobs, Michael Jordan and John Petrucci. I look up to people who are truly dedicated to what they do. Strong discipline is what I admire. All of these guys demanded the absolute best and settled for nothing less.
Q: What was your first paying job?
A: I bagged groceries for a supermarket during the days after my 16th birthday.
Q: How did you come up with the name for the business?
A: My dad thought Beezer would be a good name for a dog. I liked the name, but thought the name fits more with the surf and beach lifestyle of which I love.
Q: How do you decide what brands to bring to the store?
A: We listen to our customer's wants and needs. At first, our products were geared toward men. Now, we offer clothes and other products for men, women, boys and girls. There's something for everyone.
Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
A: I still love music. It's a great getaway without having to travel anywhere. Even if I only have 10 minutes, I still have to pick up the guitar and play!
• Every Monday we feature a small, suburban business. We want to hear about yours. Contact Kim Mikus at kmikus@dailyherald.com to find out more.
Beezer's Bungalow
Address: 575 N. Rand Road, Lake Zurich, IL 60047 Owner: Jeff Urso Year business started: 2014 Web address: <a href="http://beezersbungalow.com/">BeezersBungalow.com</a>