Spotlight on Success: The Dynamic Duo Behind Bjers Auto
May 23, 2024
In the picturesque town of Mount Shasta, CA, there's an auto repair shop that stands out for not only its exceptional mechanical service, but also for their big hearts and honest work ethic. Meet Clarann and Steve Bjers, the dynamic duo behind Bjers Auto. Clarann, the meticulous bookkeeper, and Steve, the skilled mechanic, they together have grown their auto repair shop, as well as grown in respect in their community. Their story is one of hard work, community, and invaluable guidance from the Women's Business Center (WBC) at JEDI.
Building a Business From the Ground Up
Steve Bjers spent many years as a valuable employee in various auto shops, where his talent did not go unnoticed. Encouraged by friends and family who saw his potential, Steve, alongside his wife Clarann, decided to take the leap and open their own small business. He and Clarann had little to no money to their name but a strong faith. Their friends and family believed in them and helped them get the auto business up and running on the road to success.
The Role of WBC at JEDI in Their Journey
Before opening their doors in 2004, Clarann and Steve turned to the WBC at JEDI for essential business services. They needed guidance on obtaining a business license and navigating other start-up issues. Clarann, equipped with her bookkeeping background, found the courses at WBC at JEDI particularly enlightening. She credits the courses "Make Your Money Work for You" and "It’s Your Business" for teaching them how borrowing money and managing debt wisely could pave the way for long-term success.
Growth & Expansion
Thanks to their dedication and excellent service, Bjers Auto quickly became a staple in the Mount Shasta community. By 2014, they had outgrown their original 1,000 sq ft shop and expanded to a 2,000 sq ft building in the heart of town. This move was a significant milestone, reflecting their thriving business and growing customer base.
In the fall of 2023 a 4,000 sq ft building in Mt. Shasta came on the market, twice the size of the space they were renting, and the Bjers set their sights on purchasing it. They came back to the WBC at JEDI for technical assistance with financial analysis and consulted with a loan specialist. They discussed SBA loan options, as well as the pros and cons of seller financing. Having gained clarification and confidence, the Bjers made an educated decision and purchased the building with seller financing.
A Testament to Perseverance and Support
Reflecting on their journey, Clarann expresses profound gratitude for the support they've received from the WBC at JEDI. “I'm a bookkeeper by education and Steve has managed multiple other businesses, but we had never started our own business, so having JEDI to turn to when questions came up was a gift,” she shares.
The Bjers' story is a testament to the power of community, faith, and the right support systems. Their success is not just in the expanded square footage of their shop or the loyal customer base they’ve built but in the meaningful contributions they make to their community and the solid foundation they’ve laid for future growth.
Are you inspired by the Bjer's story and want to pursue your own dreams?
Join us at Startup Lab! Get your new business questions answered and learn about local resources and networking opportunities. Save your Spot!
The Startup Lab is a place to...
Network with and get support from other entrepreneurs
Get your business development questions answered
Learn more about upcoming WBC at JEDI workshops, classes, and opportunities
We will discuss topics such as:
1)Time management, schedules, calendars
2)Work/life balance
3)Simple record keeping
4)Budgeting strategies, saving for a rainy day or business slump
5)How to know if you need a business license
6)Other topics will be covered as the need arises
Details:
1)Cost: Free
2)Where: Zoom (Register Today)
3)When 2nd Monday of each month at 11:30am
Interested in Expanding your Business like the Bjers, learn about your options!
Small Biz Boost: Register here for an online recorded workshop
- Learn more about alternative lending options for small businesses in Northern California.
- Find the right micro-loan programs for your small or rural businesses and know how to apply.
- Understand the diverse array of Microloan programs and how to qualify and apply for them.
- Learn how to meet requirements for loan approval.
- Receive tips and tools to successfully apply for the funding your business needs.
