Lance Owen loves his business and even though it came to him a little bit unconventionally he couldn’t be happier with how everything has turned out. As with any new business, there were some kinks to work out but Lance rolled up his sleeves and did exactly what needed to be done. Now, he gets to bring joy and connection into peoples’ lives. We can’t imagine a better business to be in.

1. Tell us a little bit about your business and what you do.

Dart Ops is a business that brings everything for a nerf war to any location. We supply nerf guns, goggles, ammunition, and battlezone cover.  Kids are able to play a variety of games with a referee that will provide safe yet fun play.

2. What made you aspire to be an entrepreneur? 

I’ve always enjoyed refereeing nerf wars. In fact, I used to work in a nerf arena that, unfortunately, had to close. When it shut down, I was given most of their inventory and opening Dart Ops seemed like the best next step. It seemed like a great opportunity as kids enjoy the game and I enjoy leading.

3. What is the one thing you wish you had known before starting your own business?

I wish I had known that I needed to provide cover as well as a good way to make barriers that I can transport in my car.  It has been a great learning experience and I’ve been challenged to improve my business with each party. I want to give all customers an excellent experience and I learn what that means through each opportunity.

4. What has been the most successful avenue for building and growing your brand/business (social media, ads, word of mouth, referrals, etc.)?

Facebook is where I generate a majority of my business. Social media is a great outlet also. As parents share their positive experiences, more clients ask questions and book parties. They are able to see pictures of real events and see the faces of party guests and that increases the desire for their kids to have the same experience.

5. What are the aspects of your business that you enjoy the most?

I definitely enjoy seeing the joy of not just children as they play, but also the parents as they have fun shooting at each other. The games start with kids but end up including adults who want to relive their childhood fun. It’s great to see families coming together and having stress free fun.

6. What do you love doing in your free time to refuel and have fun?

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with friends and playing video games.  Some of my favorites are Polytopia and Halo. I enjoy the strategy in Polytopia as there is a challenge in finding a way for every troop to be used efficiently.