GAYLE’S STORY
Gayle Patrick comes from a family of entrepreneurs, but this isn’t how she started her professional career. An Army veteran, she later worked as a corporate executive, but it was always her intention to one day work for herself. After doing research on service-based businesses, Gayle knew she wanted to invest in a business with a simple model and high net margins in a niche market. Dryer Vent Wizard® checked all the boxes, so she tapped into her entrepreneurial genes and opened a franchise in Newport News, Virginia, in 2019, funding it with her own capital.
Gayle says being a franchise owner has allowed her to finally have the work-life balance she needed. Outside of work, she enjoys mentoring other franchisee hopefuls and giving back to the community.
“I enjoy the camaraderie with other franchise owners and the genuine desire to help each other succeed. It is like an extended family of experts.”
Year opened: 2019
Question: Number of employees: 4
Question: Least favorite household chore? Ironically, laundry.
Question: Advice for prospective franchisers? Speak to franchise owners across all performance levels. Learn from their success, avoidable pitfalls, and challenges.
Question: Why an independently owned and operated franchise business? I wanted to invest in an already successful model that has been tested and proven.
Question: Unique experience about your franchise: We were excited to exceed our goal of adding additional staff and vans within our first year of business.
Question: When has another franchise owner gone above and beyond to help you? We currently do not have a technical support system for Technicians to be able to reach out when they have questions or need guidance. Matthew Burrow is 100% committed to our brand and everyone’s success. He has taken the time to answer questions for Technicians by sharing his knowledge which in some cases can only be acquired by experience. When stepping into a space which is a new endeavor, you are going to need that type of support and knowledge to navigate solutions outside of basic training. Matthew eagerly provides that support and loves to help his fellow owners.