Business
Making it in Big Sky: Chad and Sarah Oullette of The Cave Spirits and Gifts
Published
6 years agoon
Posted By
Outlaw PartnersBy Sarah Gianelli EBS Senior Editor
BIG SKY – In the late ’80s the State of Montana Liquor Division shut down the State Liquor Store in Big Sky and put it out to bid in 1989. Jodean and Doug Bing approached Chad Ouellette about bidding on that liquor license. They were successful in the bid and reopened the Big Sky Liquor Store at Bucks T-4 Lodge from 1990 to 1994. In 2006, Oullette was again approached to purchase the store with partner Scott Johnson from Sidney, Montana. In the beginning they didn’t have very many wholesale accounts, but one by one they started winning them back.
Starting out with 1,200 square feet in the RJS Tower building in Town Center, they quickly realized the need for more space, and in 2007 moved into their current 3,000 square foot space in the Market Place Building, expanding their selection of beer, wine and gifts.
Then came the recession and with it plenty of changes. Chad bought out his partner and his wife Sarah joined the business and took over all gift-buying responsibilities. Chad said he was never so scared in his life, with a wife and three little girls and holding on for dear life, but now they are on the brink of moving into an even larger 5,000 square foot space in the new building under construction across the street from Roxy’s Market this spring.
As part of this ongoing series, the Oullettes shared their thoughts with EBS on the reasoning behind their success and longevity operating a Big Sky small business.
Explore Big Sky: What has been the key to your success?
Chad Oullette: We have always tried to provide excellent customer service. Today more than ever I think customer service is vital to be successful.
EBS: What are the biggest obstacles to operating a small business in Big Sky?
C.O.: The off-seasons have always been tough. We now like to call them shoulder seasons, but you still have to be ready to get through them.
EBS: How has the business landscape changed since you started out?
C.O.: Social media—it’s a full time job keeping up with social media today.
EBS: What is it about Big Sky that compels you to stick it out through the hard times?
C.O. I moved to Montana in 1987 and couldn’t believe I got to live in such a beautiful place; I still feel that way today.
EBS: What is one of the most memorable moments you have had as a resident/business owner in Big Sky?
C.O.: Probably my first run off the tram with my buddy Dave Smith. He has passed on now, but it’s funny how often I think about that day and how much fun we had.
EBS: Why do you think so many new businesses fold relatively quickly?
C.O.: Maybe patience. I think some people start making a little money and spend it instead of saving some for a rainy day and believe me, it will rain.
EBS: What advice would you give to small business owners just starting out in Big Sky?
C.O.: Know your numbers. The best decision I ever made was hiring an experienced bookkeeper and accountant and then actually listening to them.
EBS: What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve received?
C.O.: Never get stagnant—the second you coast, somebody will pass you by.
EBS: Where do you see your business in 10 years?
C.O.: With what’s going on in Big Sky right now that’s really hard to answer. We are getting ready to move into our new building with much more square footage than we currently have. Will this be our last move?
The Cave Spirits and Gift – by the numbers
• Staff: 7
• Years in business: 10
• Longest serving employee: David “Cave Dave” Bird, 10 years
The Outlaw Partners is a creative marketing, media and events company based in Big Sky, Montana.
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My Barking Dog is a nightmare comedy
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My Barking Dog is a nightmare comedy that tells the story of Toby and Melinda, two lonely people whose lives are forever changed the night they encounter a starving coyote at their apartment building. Over time they grow to expect him, leaving ritual offerings to entice the coyote every night. Toby and Melinda forge a connection over this visitor and share curiosity and concern about his presence in the city. The coyote expands their world–until, one night, their world is shattered. Their lives are pushed suddenly into uncharted territory, sending them on a surreal odyssey that changes their city–and the world–forever.
Directed by LX Miller. Starring Max Schneider and Denise Hergett
Verge Theater is continuing their mission to provide accessible theater to our community. Tickets for My Barking Dog are Pay What You Wish with a suggested price of $35. Audience members are offered the opportunity to select the price point that is comfortable for them when purchasing tickets.
My Barking Dog runs March 15-17, 22-24, 28-30
Performances on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays begin at 7:00 p.m., with Sunday matinees offered at 3:00 p.m.
Suitable for ages 16 . No animals are harmed in the staging of this production.
Tickets are available online at www.vergetheater.com
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15 (Friday) 7:00 pm - 30 (Saturday) 8:30 pm
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Area parents are encouraged to bring their young children to Symphony Storytime with a Bassoon which will be presented at the Bozeman Public Library’s Community Room during
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Area parents are encouraged to bring their young children to Symphony Storytime with a Bassoon which will be presented at the Bozeman Public Library’s Community Room during their regular Toddler and Preschool Storytime on Wednesday, March 20, at 10:15 a.m. The free program, presented by the Bozeman Symphony is especially for children ages 3 to 5. Children will be able to listen to Montana Shakespeare in the Parks actor Emma Rather, who will be joined by Bozeman Symphony Bassoonist Sam Macken. The goal of the program is to encourage a love of music, literacy, and discovery. Additional programs are scheduled at the Library on April 10 and June 12. For more information, visit www.bozemansymphony.org or call 406-585-9774.
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626 E. Main St, Bozeman, MT