Standardize excellence with SOPs

June 1, 2026  |  Business, Management

Chaos can often be mistaken for capability. The ability to pivot quickly, solve problems on the fly and “make it work” under pressure is what many of us built our businesses on.
2026 State of the industry

June 1, 2026  |  Business

Last year, we were wondering how tariffs would affect the U.S. economy and the domestic portion of the global textile industry, as the rates seemed to change daily at the time the Advanced Textiles Association (ATA) annual industry survey was being conducted in the spring. Inflation thus wound up be…
Daring to delegate

June 1, 2026  |  Business, Shelf Life

One of the most difficult challenges for any entrepreneur is learning how and when to delegate tasks. In the beginning, there was no one to hand tasks off to. You were the head cook and bottle washer and the buck stopped with you. As your company grew, you convinced others to join you, but unfortuna…
Company profile: Made in the Shade Tent Rental

April 1, 2026  |  Business, Company Profile

Whether it’s a huge concert, street festival, corporate gala or other large event where a sea of tents suddenly materializes to house the festivities, Made in the Shade Tent Rentals (MITS), based in West Sacramento, Calif., specializes in this kind of practical magic.
Firing family

April 1, 2026  |  Business

"I can’t fire them—they’re family” can be a dangerous phrase in a family business. This deep-seated loyalty can create complications in the business if loyalty over performance is prioritized. Among the many excuses for not parting ways with family are: “It’s not a good time”; “This …
Busy doesn’t always mean profitable

April 1, 2026  |  Business

Every spring, it starts the same way for tent and event rental companies across the country. The phone rings nonstop, inquiry forms flood inboxes, and weekend calendars fill faster than crews can load trucks. From backyard ceremonies to vineyard receptions and large-scale event installations, weddin…
What is your business worth?

December 2, 2025  |  Business, Management

Your most valuable asset may be your business. A business owner can spend decades building a business and reputation. As they approach retirement age, they likely have questions: How do they value their business? How do they maximize the value and minimize taxes upon sale or succession?