Familia Lawn Service

Toni says she got into the grass cutting business by accident. Several years ago, her children started playing soccer. The president of the soccer club was her eldest brother. Toni started helping her brother maintain the football and softball fields that were used by the soccer club. “We did this for about 3 soccer seasons! It was a chance for the family to be together on the weekends and help the kids,” says Toni. Soon after, Toni was offered the opportunity to maintain the field, where the youth soccer league games were played. Toni eventually got the contract for the Guam Football Association Main Facility located in Harmon, Guam where the national soccer players of Guam train for off-island competition. After talking with her husband, Toni decided to pursue the grass cutting business in a full time capacity. “I really enjoyed getting on that riding mower and cutting the grass for the players, coaches, parents, and fans.

Before starting her business, Toni visited the Guam Small Business Development Center at the University of Guam. My Counselor and Bank of Guam Women in Business Program Coordinator, Mrs. Denise Mendiola Hertslet, were instrumental in guiding and providing me with tips and techniques for running a successful business.

Toni started her business slowly and used her personal savings to pay for startup costs. “Seventy-five percent of my business assets are owner-injected. Slowly but surely we were able to buy equipment one piece at a time, a little here and a little there.” Recently, Toni went to the Guam SDBC and worked with Denise to apply for and secure a small business loan. The loan was used to expand current operations and for working capital.

Toni admits that running Familia Lawn Services, has its challenges. Her biggest challenge is getting more commercial customers in the private sector. Another challenge is managing her time between her family and her business. “The support I have received from my husband and children has made the challenge that much easier and rewarding for me.” Other challenges include increased fuel prices and licensing fees. “The increase in the utilities and government services and fees makes maintaining a business difficult. However, with the support of my family and the superb hard work of my employees, Familia Lawn Services is here to stay!”

Familia Lawn Service is finally gaining momentum. Toni hasn’t had time to relax yet. Her goal is to win a Federal Government Contract or two and be able to provide ground maintenance to the various bases and federal properties on Guam.

When asked what advice she could give to other women who would like to go into business for themselves, Toni said, “The best advice I can give is to follow your heart and it will lead you down the right path.