Name of Owner: Randy Maust. Martin Mansfield is the general Manager.
Year you opened for business: In its current building since 1969. OGG was founded, however, in 1896.
How would you describe your business? Full-service monument shop: corner stones, address blocks, head stones, commercial signage.
Briefly describe your typical client/customer: Middle-aged person who may have lost a loved one, or one who is planning funeral costs.
What is one thing most people do not know about your business that would surprise him/her? How much customization that can be applied to a memorial.
What do you enjoy most about doing business in Olde Towne Portsmouth? Museums and restaurants located here.
What do you enjoy most about doing business in Hampton Roads? The friendly people everywhere you go.
What challenges does your business face? The economy: people not having as much disposable income as they used to have.
What’s in store for your business in the future? The cremation rate is going up, and the 5-10 local cemeteries are running out of space. We are planning for these aspects.
What could local government do to help small business owners in your business district (besides lower taxes)? Reference them on a local website and more marketing for the area.
What is one thing your business district needs? Figuring out a place for the homeless to go. They scare people.
Anything else you would like to add? We are very family-oriented, and into the emotional side of families when they come in after losing a loved one. We don’t just treat them like a number, but we help them smile through the tears and get through the tough time they are going through.
