Suzy and Carlos Montes came to a point where they wanted more for their lives. Both felt weighed down by the constraints of their careers and wanted to build something more for their family and contribute to their community in a meaningful way. Their inspiring journey from career burnout to becoming proud U.S. Lawns franchisees demonstrates how embracing change and trusting the process can lead to a fulfilling and successful business venture.
Suzy, a dedicated occupational therapist with experience in a variety of healthcare settings, began to feel disillusioned by the healthcare industry. “It began to feel as if patients were just being seen as a number. We were asked to do the impossible in terms of productivity. I felt that quality care was being compromised,” recalls Suzy. Not willing to sacrifice her standards, Suzy knew she had to make a change.
After leaving the healthcare industry, Suzy knew she wanted to make a difference but wasn’t sure where to turn next. “I was still thinking in terms of the healthcare industry, but my husband saw the stress and how it burnt me out and didn’t want that for me,” she said.
Carlos, an army veteran and pilot, also yearned for a change. He felt undervalued and underappreciated in his current career. Most of all though, he wanted to spend more time at home with his wife and children. With business ownership on his radar, Carlos started exploring opportunities.
Wanting to be closer to family, the Montes moved back to their hometown, Mercedes, Texas.
“We wanted our children to spend more time with their abuela and abeulo. It was important for us to have them know their family,” Suzy says, “We love the community and the vibrant Hispanic culture of the area. We take pride in it and wanted to contribute to the community in positive ways.”
Situated near the U.S.-Mexico border, this area of southern Texas has recently undergone a significant transformation, experiencing tremendous economic growth and development. The astute and business-minded Carlos saw the opportunity and need for high-quality landscaping services. He also saw alignment with his and Suzy’s desire to be of service to their community, by way of offering quality employment while enhancing the beauty of their surroundings.
As Carlos did more research, he found franchising to be a good fit for his and Suzy’s business goals. Coming from a military background, he knew he could be successful within a set of systems and processes with a clear cut business model. As he learned more about the U.S. Lawns franchise offering, he saw an industry leader with the support and systems that could help them achieve them build a sustainable business and contribute to and beautify their community in meaningful ways.
Ever the visionary, the decision to join U.S. Lawns was clear for Carlos. Suzy, however, took a little time to convince. While she was familiar with the landscape industry and her father owned a residential landscape company, she initially didn’t take to the idea of opening a landscape business. “I have fond memories of helping my dad, him on the mower and me on the string trimmer, working side by side. I was just unsure if we could do the work on the scale that would be required to meet our financial goals.”
Despite her reservations, Suzy followed Carlos’ lead and they became U.S. Lawns franchisees in June of 2023. One of the key factors that eased the transition was the brand’s training and support systems. Suzy emphasized the availability of advisors and mentors whenever needed was a huge game changer. “Lee, Todd, and the others, including Dave in the Home Office, have been surrounding me and supporting me, especially when those feelings of inadequacy creep in,” she explained.
She adds that in addition to the support from U.S. Lawns, the power of the network has been an invaluable resource to her, namely the brand’s mentorship program. U.S. Lawns pairs new franchisees, like the Montes with more experienced franchisees to help them navigate the early stages of starting a business. “Jamie Carruth and her son Alex, have been wonderful mentors. They invited us in to see how they operate on the day to day. I have learned so much from them. Their support has been amazing.”
As with any new business, there has been a learning curve, but with their complementary skills and the comprehensive support and training of U.S. Lawns, the Montes are on their way to building a thriving and sustainable business. Suzy’s attention to detail and Carlos’ knack for seeing the big picture has made them an ideal team.
The Montes’ story underscores the importance of having a supportive franchisor like U.S. Lawns. Suzy highlighted the constant support, even when things felt overwhelming. “It’s important to trust the process,” she emphasized.
Carlos and Suzy Montes have come a long way, from career burnout to proud U.S. Lawns franchise owners. Their story serves as a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship and the support and mentorship provided by U.S. Lawns. If you, like the Montes, have a vision to make a positive impact in your community while enjoying the journey of business ownership, U.S. Lawn might be the perfect fit for you! Join the U.S. Lawns family and together let’s create beautiful, vibrant landscapes and strong, connected communities.
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