Smoky Mountain Rod and Customs
Husband and wife team Rob and Blasia Perry, co-founders of Smoky Mountain Rod and Customs, shared their remarkable journey from a humble backyard operation to a thriving business. Launched in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, the small business was born out of the couple’s shared passion for custom cars, a passion that dates back to their high school days. In just four years, they transformed their fledgling venture into a company employing 13 people, focusing on crafting custom cars. Their success has been driven by their dedication, strategic planning, and access to capital through Apex Bank, which enabled them to expand their operations into manufacturing chassis and frames, thus enhancing efficiency and reducing lead times.
The couple's journey was not without its challenges. Recognizing the need to scale their operations, they partnered with John Rock, Apex Bank’s Senior Vice President of Government Guaranteed Lending, and Gregg Bostick, Director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), to secure the SBA 7 (a) loan. This financial boost allowed them to purchase the necessary equipment to start manufacturing, a move that significantly reduced their dependency on external suppliers for their custom builds. Alongside this, they took a bold step by buying out a business partner, a decision that set a solid foundation for future growth.
Looking to the future, Rob and Blasia outlined ambitious plans to continue their upward trajectory. They are set to lease an additional 8,000 square feet of space for assembly purposes, aiming to separate fabrication from the finished car areas. This expansion is part of a larger strategy to increase production capacity and efficiency. They also plan to hire two more employees shortly, with a bold aspiration to grow their workforce from the current 14 full-time employees to 16 by the end of the year. These plans are not only about scaling but also about creating a more organized and productive environment that supports their long-term vision.
Throughout their journey, Rob and Blasia have drawn inspiration from their entrepreneurial dreams and outstanding employees willing to contribute their talents and see the business prosper. Their advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple yet profound - follow your dreams! Their story is a testament to what can be achieved when passion and perseverance intersect, highlighting the importance of strategic planning and financial planning in building a successful business.
The couple expressed their gratitude for the support received along the way and emphasized their continued dedication to growing Smoky Mountain Rod and Customs into a leader in the custom car industry. With plans in motion to expand their workforce and facilities, the couple is poised to steer their company toward an exciting future, fueled by innovation and an unwavering commitment to their craft.