Students minding their own business
Chase Johnson
In this down economy, trying to get a job is a task no one wants to attempt. There are applications to send out, stress over interviews, waiting for call backs and in the end, there are zero results and a repeating cycle.
It would be nice if we could pick and choose our hours, go to lunch when we want and give ourselves the weekends off.
But have you ever thought of starting your own business? Some college students have done just that, by skipping the interview and application process and opting to employ themselves.
Though, perhaps it is not all glory and money ridden. Most business experts agree on a theory of “thirds.”
Of all new start up businesses, one-third will eventually turn a profit, one-third will break even and one-third will never leave a negative earnings scenario.
According to a study by the United States Small Business Association, only two-thirds of all small business startups survive the first two years and less than half make it to the four year mark.
This is not always the case as one business by a couple of students is fast approaching its four-year mark. Going more than three years strong is the small business venture, “The Wedding Singers.”
The group was founded by Paul Garns, who plays the guitar and vocals and his friend Justin Miller, who plays percussion instruments and also sings.
“The Wedding Singers” have more than 100 songs memorized ranging from such artists as Garth Brooks, Nora Jones, James Taylor, even Alice in Chains or Metallica.
The duo offers the wedding couple a chance to give them a list of songs they want played. The group will then learn and perfect them.
“We will play anything that they want us to play and if we don’t know it, then we will learn it to perfection,” said Garns.
“The Wedding Singers” charge $200 for the first hour and $100 for each additional hour.
Their schedule fills quickly, so “The Wedding Singers” suggest acting in a timely manner.
“We play a lot and all over the valley, and not just weddings but other events as well,” said Garns. “If we have advance notice, we can more than likely play at your wedding.”
If you would like to have “The Wedding Singers” perform at your wedding or event, contact Paul Garns at (480) 329-3765.
