Before I left on vacation, I gave a presentation to the Hatch Network in Campbell, CA. At that time, I presented the outline of Holistic Business Management for the first time. As I spoke of women’s inclusive vision of business, heads vigorously nodded in the audience. As women, we understand that life rarely gets neatly categorized. Kids can be demanding, relationships need tending and the importance of fresh flowers can be overwhelming. At the same time, we need to build on the concepts of business that already exist; that we ignore to our peril.
In Boulder, Utah (Yes, that’s Utah, not Colorado), I found a women-owned business that exemplified the very concepts that Holistic Business Management represents — Hell’s Backbone Grill. My husband and I had read about this remote restaurant in Via, and decided to include it in our get-away camping/vacation to the red rocks of Utah. It was a wise decision.
Blake Spalding and Jen Castle moved to the predominently Mormon town of Boulder (population 180) to open their restaurant in 2000. With strong cooking and catering management skills, particularly in remote places, they had the basic business skills to succeed. However, they needed more. They needed community support in a way that honored both their own spirits (Buddhism) and those of Boulder.
Boulder, like many remote small towns, was resistent to newcomers. The previous owner of the restaurant was unable to get a liquor license, despite a legal battle to the Utah Supreme Court. Jen and Blake took a different approach, building relationships and understanding that paved the way. They successfully obtained a liquor license. Hiring community workers was also difficult initially. Their solution to the problem? Hold an ice cream social.
These two women exemplify the beauty of a woman-owned business. This highly-acclaimed restaurant (reviews in the New York Times, O Magazine and Zagat-rated) has supported their lifestyle, as well as many in the community for over eight years. They understand business basics of finance and marketing. They also honor relationships, community, creativity and spirituality…essences that all women can bring to their business right now.
If you ever have a yen for good food and a few days to travel…consider Hell’s Backbone Grill. It’s worth the trip.
