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V O L . X X V I I I N O. X X V I O C T O B E R 3 1 , 2 0 2 2 24 FA M I LY OW N E D B U S I N E S S W e asked four couples about their roles running a jointly owned business, how they divided those responsibilities — and what happens when they disagree. The less glamorous side of a 'glamping' business In 2014, Karen Roper and her husband Aaron Sprague bought land in Southwest Harbor and opened the Acadia Yurts glampground the following summer. In the beginning, both had day jobs in hospitality. Sprague worked in restaurants, Roper in restaurants and massage therapy. ey kept the jobs for several years so additional revenue the yurts generated could be put back into the property. Sprague was the first to leave his day job and become the "yurt guy," handling calls, emails, mowing, trash, maintenance and website operation. Roper's day jobs continued to provide financial support as the business grew. Starting with four yurts, they've grown to seven, plus two tiny houses and a year-round wellness center. e facility fully employs both now and their respec- tive roles have carried through nicely, thanks to an early business plan that outlined how to capitalize on their individual strengths to benefit the business. Even when they have disagreements, they carry through that thoughtful planning process. Careful planning, taking time to have the neces- sary discussions, and capitalizing on each other's strengths and interests are what it's all about as fam- ily partners running a business. One partner might be more adept at design, another at maintenance. Spreadsheets might be the definition of fun for one, while the other loves teamwork. Often, family part- ners tag team for customer-facing jobs such as run- ning the storefront or checking in guests. "We talk everything out, both big decisions and small decisions," says Roper. Even if it's just sharing 'Here is what I think we should do; what do you think?'" P H O T O / L A U R I E S C H R E I B E R At Acadia Yurts & Wellness Center in Southwest Harbor, Aaron Sprague and Karen Roper say taking time to have discussions and capitalizing on each other's strengths and interests are key as a couple owning and running a business. F O C U S We talk everything out, both big decisions and small decisions. — Karen Roper Acadia Yurts & Wellness Center In jointly owned businesses, couples navigate who does what B y L a u r i e S c h r e i b e r