By LAURA DANIEL
Tiger Media Network
Aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners gathered at the Hays Public Library last Thursday for a Small Business Panel aimed at providing practical guidance, valuable resources, and a sense of community for those navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.
The event was sparked by a local patron who approached the library seeking advice on how to move forward with their business, and believed others in the community could benefit from similar support. Recognizing the vital role small businesses play in the local economy, the library stepped up to organize the panel.
“This idea came to us through a patron who was struggling with the next steps of their business and wanted advice, but also thought it would be helpful to others,” said HPL Public Services Librarian Jessica Shields. “Seeing the importance of small businesses in our community, HPL gladly took on the role of organizer.”
Designed for both aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs, the panel aimed to foster business growth by offering firsthand insight, expert advice, and networking opportunities.
“The intended audience was new or emerging entrepreneurs,” Shields said. “Through this event, they gained valuable networking skills, expert perspectives, and a budding sense of community within the local small business scene.”
The panel featured five business owners, each sharing their personal journeys and professional expertise:
- Emily Weigel, owner of The Niche, offered insight into the DIY painting and crafts market.
- Ceena Lund of Ceena’s Massage spoke about building a sustainable practice in the wellness industry.
- Israel Luna, co-owner of Las Hefas Latin Cuisine, shared the realities of managing a restaurant and connecting with the community through food.
- Henry Schwaller of the FHSU Department of Management contributed both academic insight and personal experience from his own business ventures.
- Shelbie Ford of Five Heart Connected Pastries discussed the dynamics of running a home-based bakery, emphasizing the importance of the Hays Farmers Market in growing her customer base.
Together, the panelists offered a well-rounded look at entrepreneurship, equipping attendees with real-world strategies and encouraging them to take the next steps in their business journeys.