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April 18, 2008

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Small-business owners, you deserve a moment in the spotlight. In this regular column, we'll highlight entrepreneurs from all over the U.S., in any number of industries, who can answer the question, "What makes you stand out from the crowd?" We know you're proud of your accomplishments — now you can tell the world about them, too.

Lynn Griffith, founder of Welcome Florida, answers our questions:

What makes you stand out from the crowd?

We combine outsized creativity with laser-like business focus. For a global company that wanted to host an unmatched bonding experience for its top producers, we orchestrated a convoy of 120 Winnebagos into the Everglades for an overnight camping trip. I have to tell you — it is unheard of to sleep with the alligators and the snakes of our lovely Everglades.But the goal of the company was to create a cohesive team facing the elements together and they did. They pitched 700 tents, carried their chairs to dinner and had a terrific experience.

What's the best part about owning your own business?

Independence and autonomy. I love the freedom that I have had to grow the company fearlessly and creatively to meet our clients' ever-changing needs.

My name is: Lynn Griffith
My business is: Welcome Florida
Industry: Event planning
Location: Ft Lauderdale, Miami and Orlando, Fla.
Year founded: 1984
Number of employees: 43
Web address: WelcomeFlorida.com

What's the biggest hurdle you've overcome?

Sept. 11. It almost put the tourism industry in Florida out of business. Immediately following the attacks, we had all lost our bearings. I needed to make wise business decisions based upon my own internal compass. The first few months were uncertain and we needed to operate on a lean staff; but then we rebounded significantly after three to four months when corporate groups decided to travel to Florida instead of Europe. We were able to quickly rehire people we had laid off and in 2002 had a tremendously successful year.

What's the best business advice you can offer?

You had better love what you do if you are going to spend this much time doing it. You must have a passion for your business to be successful.

Which organization referred you to smSmallBiz's Stand Out?

Women's Business Enterprise National Council or WBENC.

Are You a Stand Out?
To be considered for this column, please send an email (and a digital headshot!) to Editors@smSmallBiz.com, answering these questions:

My name is:
My business is: (name of business, plus description)
Location:
Year founded:
Number of employees:
Web address:

What makes you stand out from the crowd?
What's the best part about owning your own business?
What's the biggest hurdle you've overcome?
What's the best business advice you can offer?
If a business organization referred you to us, please tell us which one.