Brookfield Small Business Profile: Guitar Hangar

Business: Guitar Hangar
Owner: Rick Tedesco
Website: guitarhangar.com
Address: 270 Federal Road, Brookfield, CT 06804

How did you come up with the name?

I put together 2 things I really love: guitars and airplanes! The original inspiration was based on the idea of a guitar shop the size of an airplane hangar, with tons of guitars lining the walls. I want people to walk in and go “wow that’s a lot of guitars!”

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?

The traffic in this location is amazing. Several very busy shops are in here with me. And I chose Brookfield because this is where I live, this is where my kids go to school. I wanted to keep my business rooted in the community.

Briefly, what business are you in?

I sell dreams.

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

Reinventing myself and my business after the crash in 2008 and recovering in the midst of that dismal economy.

Were there any challenges that made you second guess your decision to be an entrepreneur?

No. It was nerve-racking and exciting, yes... but I never had a doubt that I could make it work.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

Breaking $1 million in sales in my first year. That was amazing.

What’s the most innovative idea your employees or customers have had that you put into practice?

I have gotten so many ideas from listening to customers. Moving my business out of my small shop into this location came from a customer! Listening gives you an opportunity to work all kinds of magic.

How do you deal with difficult customers?

Hand grenades! Just kidding. In all seriousness, my wish is that every difficult customer could realize for a moment that we are just 2 people, each with something the other wants. I treat people the way I like to be treated. I’m not here to rip anyone off, but I’m also not here to be taken advantage of. I need to make a profit because that’s how I stay in business, pay my employees, and feed my family. In any disagreement, there is always a happy medium that can be reached where both parties feel good about the outcome. I’m all about that.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

I like to work directly with the parties in need. I get the most satisfaction by donating my time and talents to specific causes. I’ve played with my band in lots of fundraisers and charity events over the years. That way, it feels more like I’m helping directly, rather than just cutting a check and getting a tax write-off.

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