Name of person Featured: Perry Pernell

Name of Business: Dutch Direct Barns

Address: 1421 Armory Drive, Franklin

Phone number: (757) 516-2525 or (804) 516-5338 (cell)

Operating Hours: Monday to Friday 9-5 and Saturday 10-4

E-mail address: dutchdirectbarns@gmail.com

Nature of Business: Sales and delivery of Amish-built sheds and gazebos

Year Founded: 2005

Location(s): Additional location in Petersburg

Number of employees: Six

How’s business? Spring is finally here, and we are busy.

One thing you wish everyone knew about your business: We are here to offer a top-quality product at a low price.

Something you offer that a customer won’t find elsewhere: Garden houses. They are free-standing sunrooms.

Advice to young entrepreneurs: I would advise future entrepreneurs to be active and gain as much work experience as possible. Realistic perceptions and a strong work ethic are great tools to have in the bag.

Your first job: I was 15 and Mecklenburg County hired a few of us to clean up the back roads of the county. It was great. Minimal supervision, a few buddies and a pay check — who could ask for more?

Your role model (in business or in life generally): My father; the man has been able to stay balanced throughout the hurricanes life has thrown at him. I aspire to follow his lead.

The key to a successful business is: Having quality products, top-notch service, honesty and integrity all influence the direction of a business and are vital for success.