Galen Overholt knows what it means to answer to a higher calling. As a Christian missionary for more than 12 years, he and his wife lived in northwest Ontario to teach others about their faith. By Rochelle Miller
Galen Overholt knows what it means to answer to a higher calling. As a Christian missionary for more than 12 years, he and his wife lived in northwest Ontario to teach others about their faith.
Upon returning to the U.S. a decade ago, the father of five moved his family to settle in South Carolina. He then was tasked with choosing how to earn a living to support his family, who played a central role in the decision. “We have four boys and a daughter,” he explained. “I was looking for something I could do with my children when they’re older.”
Overholt’s initial idea was to own a lawn service, but the idea didn’t feel like the right fit. “We didn’t have peace about it,” Overholt explained.
As luck would have it, there was a Border Magic franchise for sale in his area. Border Magic is a leading provider of decorative concrete landscape edging, decorative walkways, stepping stones, and concrete curbing. Known for its customizable colors and wide selection of patterns, the brand is the only company in its sector that is a franchise.
“It was well-established, so we stepped into the role and took it on from there,” he said. Because the business had earned a good reputation under the previous owner, Overholt was able to assume a business that already had a customer base. It also fit Overholt’s vision of working with his children. By continuing to focus on his customers, Overholt has been able to maintain and grow the business’ stellar reputation.
“The materials that we use are the best products out there when it comes to the sealer, colors, and mix design. We are very focused to meet our customers’ needs. When we say we’re going to be somewhere, we’re there,” he said.
Overholt also has fulfilled his dream of working with his children, who are now grown (ranging in age from 19 to 26). Two of his sons continue to work alongside him, which brings Overholt great joy.
“We have fun on the job with each other,” he said of his sons. “There’s no cussing, no swearing. The customers say they don’t see young men act as professional and respectful as our crew.”
It is clear that a strong work ethic and Christian values have guided him on his journey to entrepreneurial success.
“Lots of businesses fail because integrity has gone out the window. People say one thing and do another,” he said. “The reason our business has succeeded is we follow God’s principles of honesty, integrity and treating people the way we want to be treated.”
Overholt has acquired another franchise, Border Magic’s sister company, Boulder Designs, which is also still growing. Owning his own business has been a blessing, but it is not always easy, Overholt admited.
“It’s not for the faint at heart. It takes a lot of focus. If you want to own a business, you can’t be half-hearted about it,” he said. “It’s like a garden. The more energy and focus you put into it, the better the harvest is.”
For more information about franchising opportunities with Border Magic, visit mybordermagic.com, or call 877-892-2954.
– Rochelle Miller