MidMO Business

The people, the cities, and the businesses in Mid Missouri

Business Shout-Out

Seasonal Self-Storage Is Essential in Missouri

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Storage Tips for Missouri Residents from Route K Storage

Missouri’s ever-changing seasons bring diverse needs for residents who rely on self-storage. From hot summers to icy winters, knowing how to adjust your storage habits throughout the year can help keep your belongings in great condition and ensure you have easy access to the things you need most.

Here are some top tips for making the most of self-storage throughout the seasons in Missouri:

1. Winter Storage: Protecting Your Summer Gear

As winter approaches, many Missourians need to store away their summer equipment, such as lawnmowers, grills, patio furniture, and pool accessories. These items can be damaged if left outside during the freezing months.

Tips:

  • Clean thoroughly: Before storing, make sure all summer equipment is cleaned to prevent rust, mold, or mildew from developing over the winter.
  • Cover and pack smart: Use proper covers for larger items like grills and lawnmowers. Pack smaller items like pool accessories in sealed bins.
  • Climate-controlled units: Consider storing delicate items like outdoor furniture cushions in climate-controlled units to prevent cracking due to freezing temperatures.

Related Storage Needs:

  • Boats and jet skis: Be sure to winterize your boat or jet ski before storing it, including draining water and fuel. Check whether your facility offers outdoor storage for larger vehicles.

2. Spring Decluttering: Organize and Swap Out Winter Gear

Spring is the perfect time for Missouri residents to declutter and make room for warmer weather items. This is when you’ll want to start pulling out summer gear and safely pack away your winter essentials.

Tips:

  • Declutter your storage unit: Take inventory of your stored items and donate or discard anything you no longer need.
  • Rotate seasonal items: Move winter items like snow blowers, sleds, and coats to the back of the unit and bring your summer gear to the front.
  • Store winter clothes and décor: Use vacuum-sealed bags or airtight containers to pack away bulky winter clothing and holiday decorations.

Related Storage Needs:

  • RVs and campers: Spring is also when many Missourians take out their RVs and campers. If your facility offers vehicle storage, make sure you plan to access these larger items as the weather warms up.

3. Summer Storage: Safeguarding Seasonal Items

Summer in Missouri often means outdoor adventures and family vacations, and for many, this is also the time to store larger items temporarily.

Tips:

  • Protect items from heat: Missouri summers can get extremely hot, so be mindful of storing heat-sensitive items like electronics, leather furniture, or artwork. Consider using climate-controlled storage for these belongings.
  • Keep your storage unit organized: If you’re storing summer equipment like tents, camping gear, or kayaks, place them at the front for easy access throughout the season.
  • Storing vehicles: If you’re going on a long vacation and need to store a car, make sure it’s prepared by disconnecting the battery and covering it to protect it from the elements.

Related Storage Needs:

  • Motorcycles and ATVs: These vehicles are popular for summer fun, and storing them in a secure, covered area when not in use is key to their maintenance.

4. Fall Preparation: Ready for the Cold Months Ahead

As the weather cools, it’s time to think about how you’ll protect and store your belongings during the colder months. Fall is ideal for making preparations for winter storage.

Tips:

  • Store seasonal sports equipment: With the end of summer, store items like golf clubs, bicycles, and canoes in a safe, dry place.
  • Winterize outdoor equipment: Before storing lawnmowers, grills, and other outdoor equipment, drain any fluids and clean thoroughly.
  • Organize your storage for winter access: As you pack up summer gear, make sure to place holiday decorations and cold-weather equipment like snow blowers or shovels at the front of your unit for easy access.

Related Storage Needs:

  • Boats and RVs: The fall is the time to prepare boats and RVs for winter storage by ensuring they are clean, dry, and properly winterized.

Why Seasonal Self-Storage is Essential in Missouri

Missouri’s extreme weather shifts make self-storage an essential service for residents across the state. From protecting valuable summer equipment during the cold months to offering a safe place for winter sports gear, self-storage provides the flexibility to keep your home organized and your belongings safe year-round.

Need Seasonal Storage?

If you’re looking for secure, reliable self storage in south Columbia, MO, Route K Storage offers flexible units for all your seasonal needs.

New Year | Better Logistics

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U.S. Machinery Moving, Inc., also known as USMMI, is the fleet of trucks, trailers and drivers behind S and S NATIONWIDE, LLC. These trucks are the ‘first layer’ of service and reliability at your fingertips because they are our own – and nobody does it better than us!

But, being experts in the freight industry, we know better than to limit ourselves to only what we can do ourselves. So with S and S NATIONWIDE, LLC we offer you our relationships to vetted and trusted carriers all over the world.

So who’s who? Essentially, we are ONE, which is why in 2023 we’ve brought these two sister companies together online and with our new logo. So whether you know us at S and S or USMMI, we are here to serve you with the same quality, reliability, personal customer service you’ve come to expect.

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The new year is right around the corner and just as it’s a time of personal new year’s resolutions, January tends to be the time businesses, large and small, review and reassess everyday practices. This review is VITAL especially for segments of your business that may not have been revisited in quite a while.

Reviewing product offerings, pricing and marketing annually is a given but we highly suggest making it a point to review the staples including insurance, accounting and logistics. These often become ‘set it and forget it’ (thanks Ron Popeil) aspects of our businesses. They may be working okay but over time steady cost increases could mean your competitors, who have stayed on top of changing trends, updated vendors and been proactive in these areas are now moving ahead in the marketplace.

Below we have a couple key points to review to help you with a new year business review/reset. And, of course, we’d love to review your company’s logistics practices absolutely free. We never promise we’ll be the cheapest, but we KNOW we will care the most. This means being honest about if we can provide better service, more consistent pickups and deliveries, safer shipments or if you’re already in great hands with your current carriers.

Logistics Review

Data is your best friend in logistics. So we suggest a beginning of the year review of what your shipping trends looked like in the past year. Do you know:

  • How many loads you shipped?

  • Were these consistent and predictable in their schedule and destinations?

  • How many loads ran on-time with no delays?

  • Were you always kept up to date and informed on freight progress, pickups/deliveries?

  • Did you have any freight loss/theft?

We can help you review these hard facts but we also have one last question for you. Was the managing of your company’s logistics, freight storage, dock clearance and shipments stress full or stress free this year? This is the often hidden cost of self-managing your company’s freight needs. Hours spent tracking down carriers, confirming delivery, calming clients upset over shipping delays are costly hours. Not only in the salary you pay on the time spent dealing with these issues but in the stress and job satisfaction decreases that go along with it.

If you’d like to chat about a better way in the new year, drop us an email or give us a call, we’re here to help.

Insurance Review

Krista Kippenberger with Shelter Insurance agrees that an annual review of your insurance is a good idea as well. Things change, new homes, new family members, company growth, etc. All this can change your insurance needs yet we often forget to scale up (or down) our coverage along the way. Krista recommends you specifically review:

  • Your Liability Limits

  • Your Deductibles and

  • Your Property Amount

It’s always a good idea to find an agent who will take the time to sit down and review your specific needs, look for any gaps in coverage that could sneak up on you when the worst happens and find ways to optimize your coverage to avoid overpaying.

Accounting Review

Finally, the finances! When’s the last time you reviewed the entirety of your business and personal finance portfolio? While annually may be best, we often get busy especially in seasons of growth and leave things where they have been. But markets change and scheduling an annual review with your accountant, financial or business advisor is the best way to make sure sure your profits are working at peek performance. Who knows you could be earning more on the income you have or bringing value to your staff by passing on new group eligible investment opportunities.

  • Does your company hold its retained earnings in a short term CD (earning interest) or simple checking account?

  • Is there a better profit share or alternative benefits program available that could add value to your employees?

  • Can you educate and offer your contractors a group retirement plan through your local credit unions?

At the end of the day, we don’t need to be an expert in every aspect of our own business. Instead, we suggest surrounding yourselves with a team of experts (in key areas like finance, insurance, logistics and more) to optimize business growth, work/life balance and the longevity and success of our companies.

When you’re ready to partner with logistics experts who care as much about the success of your company as you do, we’re here.

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Sarah Jane Photography Adds Unique Family Portrait Wall Service in Columbia, MO

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Sarah Jane Photography introduces the Portrait Gallery Wall Design & Installation service in Columbia MO. Elevate your home or office space easily with the stress-free experience Sarah Shorthose offers. She’ll craft a family picture wall design blending your beloved portraits with your style and decor.

Sarah Jane Photography in Columbia MO is thrilled to announce the launch of its groundbreaking service: Family Portrait Gallery Wall Design & Installation.

Sarah Shorthose is a distinguished portrait artist dedicated to capturing the personalities of families and individuals.

This unique Family Portrait Wall service eliminates the stress and uncertainty associated with curating a beautiful and cohesive display of personal family photos within a home or office. Read more about it here: https://www.sjanephotography.com/homegallery/.

Founder and lead photographer Sarah Shorthose shares her excitement about the new family picture wall service, stating, “There’s something truly joy-inducing about walking past a giggling portrait of the ones you love most. While I love creating these personalized portraits for my clients, I understand that planning and installing a family picture wall can be overwhelming. Which often means that families never get started. That’s why I’m thrilled to introduce this full-service approach.”

Sarah’s Family Portrait Gallery Wall Service takes the guesswork out of creating a stunning and meaningful picture display. Whether customers have a clear vision or need guidance, Sarah will work closely with them to:

  • Gather Memories: Curate a selection of photos and pieces that are currently owned which tell a family’s unique story and match their home or office style and decor.
  • Capture the Present: Create new portraits that reflect the latest appearance and interests of the family, either in-home or on-location.
  • Organize and Visualize the Layout: Digitally create a custom mockup that complements a home’s décor and maximizes the impact of photos, so portrait clients can fall in love with the design before the first piece is ever hung on their gallery wall(s).
  • Select Finishes: Sarah guides clients in selecting finishes—from more traditional canvas and framed prints to contemporary metal and glass and even luxury options that are not easily found elsewhere—that enhance the photos themselves as well as the space in which they’re displayed.
  • Professionally Install: Sarah will personally install each family portrait gallery, ensuring it is perfectly aligned and ready to enjoy for years to come.

This service is ideal for families looking to:

  • Create a Lasting Legacy: Build a visual narrative of their family history.
  • Display Love and Connection: Showcase their unique bond in a personalized way.
  • Add Warmth and Personality: Infuse their home with a touch of family charm.
  • Enjoy a stress-Free Experience: Avoid the hassle and uncertainty and delays of DIY photo wall installation.

“I believe that family portraits truly transform a house into a home,” Sarah adds. “With my Family Portrait Gallery Wall service, I can help you create a beloved focal point in your home that brings you joy for years to come.”

Sarah Shorthose is a highly skilled and experienced photographer who is passionate about capturing genuine moments and emotions in her elegant and refined portraiture. A graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Portrait and Wedding Photography from the University of Central Missouri, she has been serving clients in central Illinois and central Missouri since 2006.

To schedule a consultation about designing a Family Portrait Gallery Wall, please contact Sarah Shorthose here.

Show-Me Dinosaurs Party Entertainment Service Roars into Columbia MO

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“Show-Me Dinosaurs”, a newly launched party entertainment service, is set to bring the magic of dinosaurs to life in Columbia, MO and other towns in Central Missouri. The company features life-sized hyper-realistic dinosaur costumes, making them the perfect addition to birthday parties, corporate events, festivals and parades, weddings, and custom experiences. (Check them out and watch the videos at https://www.showmedinosaurs.com/)

“Show-Me Dinosaurs” specializes in providing unforgettable party and event experiences. Their 7-foot tall walking and roaring Giant Dinosaurs, including a T-Rex and Raptor, along with three adorable Baby Dinosaur puppets (Triceratops, Stegosaurus, & Duck-Billed Dinosaur), are guided by entertaining and passionate Dinosaur Handlers.

These handlers lead guests through interactive games and hands-on dinosaur-themed activities, ensuring a memorable time for all. A favorite dinosaur party adventure is the “Fossil Dig Boxes”, in which children actually dig for dinosaur fossils!

The “Show-Me Dinosaurs” event service is a great way to add excitement to any party or occasion. Event attendees (adults and children alike) won’t have seen anything like this. And it’s a great way to increase attendance at corporate and community events, positioning a company in a fun light and fostering goodwill. There are plenty of opportunities for photo opportunities, video, and social media sharing!
Owner Jill Dudley states, “We wanted to offer a unique, memorable, and fun party option for kids and adults. Many people are fascinated by dinosaurs, and ours make a difference – they invariably bring joy and make people smile!”

PARTY PACKAGES

“Show-Me Dinosaurs” offers several party packages to meet the needs of any event planner.

Their main party package includes a Dino Delivery Bus, Bubble Machine, Party Music with Sound System, Interactive Games with the Dinosaurs, Engaging Dinosaur Handlers, Dinosaur Costume Operators, Baby Dinosaurs, and more. The company collaborates with clients to customize the best dinosaur activities for their specific event needs.

Ideal for surprising a dinosaur lover, Meet & Greet Packages bring “Show-Me Dinosaurs” to offices, organizations, churches, festivals, and other events. These packages are perfect for selfie booths, office visits, and mingling at large events, offering a unique and fun way to interact with dinosaurs.

“Show-Me Dinosaurs” is also committed to giving back to the community. Every month, the company donates one Dinosaur Meet & Greet package to a local nonprofit or children’s group. Individuals can nominate a deserving group to receive a Dinosaur Meet & Greet.

RECENT PARTIES AND EVENTS

Though “Show-Me Dinosaurs” Party Entertainment Service is new to Central Missouri, it’s enjoyed amazing popularity in its brief months of existence. Here are some of the places and events that have included their Dinosaurs in their party planning.

1) Tiger Bounce, Indoor Inflatable Children’s Entertainment Center in Columbia, MO, held two giant dinosaur party events (Dinosaur Day and Dinosaur Safari Breakfast)

“We worked alongside Show-Me Dinosaurs and I can’t say enough great things about them! They worked with us beforehand to make sure our event was perfect and it was even better than imagined. They were amazing with the kids and so much fun! They had so many fun games planned and made sure every kid had a moment with the dinosaurs and went above and beyond! We can’t wait to work with them again! If you’re on the fence, don’t second guess it. It’s that good.”

2) Day Solutions, Day Habilitation Program for adults with developmental disabilities in Jefferson City, MO, held a Giant Dinosaur Meet & Greet Visit

“We had such a great time with Rexie and Eggo! Our clients loved playing fetch with Rexie, getting to take her on a walk, petting Eggo, and having a dino dance party! What a fun afternoon for our clients! Thank you Show-Me Dinosaurs!”

3) Ashton H., mother of three year old son, held a “3-Rex” birthday party

“My son’s birthday was extra special. Jill and dinosaur team showed up for my son’s 4th birthday party. All the children had so much fun meeting the dinosaurs, digging in sandboxes, and playing tons of dinosaur games. We did a dino dig and egg hunt with the dinosaurs. Jill hosted the whole event for me so I could relax and enjoy time with my guest. Thank guys you for hosting my son’s birthday party. It will be one to be remembered!”

Please visit the website or Facebook page and enjoy the videos and photos, then give them a call. They’re happy to help plan a party or event that is sure to be enjoyed and remembered!

ABOUT SHOW-ME DINOSAURS

Show-Me Dinosaurs” is a premier party entertainment service based in Columbia, MO, featuring 7-foot tall walking and roaring Giant Dinosaurs (a T-Rex and Raptor) and 3 Baby Dinosaur Puppets (Triceratops, Stegosaurus, and Duck-Billed Dinosaur).

These hyper-realistic dinosaurs are guided by entertaining, passionate Dinosaur Handlers that lead event guests through interactive games and hands-on dinosaur-themed activities.

Founders Jill and Kevin Leet had the idea to start this business when planning their own wedding! They are both big fans of dinosaurs, and when Kevin jokingly suggested the idea to include a dinosaur in wedding photos, Jill actually teared up a little. Dinosaurs have been a fun and silly part of their relationship since the first conversation they shared!

They both realized combining their expertise in business, education and a passion for spreading joy, that they could bring these amazing dinosaurs to people in their own community! So, “Show-Me” Dinosaurs was born! Some dinosaur groups focus on stage shows, some on education, they focus on fun and giving back to the community!

AREAS SERVICED:

“Show-Me Dinosaurs” are available at events within about a 2-hour drive from Columbia MO. Cities include: Fulton, Jefferson City, Mexico, Moberly, Marshall, Sedalia, Hannibal, Rolla, Washington, Warrensburg, Wentzville, Lake Saint Louis, Quincy, IL, Kirksville, and Clinton MO

For pricing, questions or to book a dinosaur experience today, contact them through their website.

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