Meet Mardia Gibson
How did your business get started?
Lancaster County is home for myself and the previous owners. The previous owner’s parents and grandparents were born and raised here; while my family relocated here 19 years ago, from the West Coast. Family roots and a deep sense of heritage are of importance to us both. REology is also housed in the historic Raub Supply Company building which adds another layer of connection to the history, character, and craftsmanship that makes Lancaster County so special.
Why Lancaster County?
Lancaster County is home for myself and the previous owners. The previous owner’s parents and grandparents were born and raised here; while my family relocated here 19 years ago, from the West Coast. Family roots and a deep sense of heritage are of importance to us both. REology is also housed in the historic Raub Supply Company building which adds another layer of connection to the history, character, and craftsmanship that makes Lancaster County so special.
What makes your business unique?
We provide a creative, intentionally neutral space that becomes whatever you envision. Our seasonal styling creates a beautiful backdrop without dictating a theme, allowing you to make the space uniquely yours with your food, your décor, your colors, your traditions, and your personality at the center. We provide the canvas; you create the celebration.
What has been one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned as a small business owner?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned as a small business owner is the humbling ability to wear more than one hat. Owning a small business has taught me to stay humble, stay adaptable, and keep showing up, even on the difficult days. Some days, I am the problem solver, other days, the marketer, or the person cleaning the toilet at the end of the night and most commonly, the warm welcoming face my guests see when they arrive. You quickly learn that no task is beneath you. The flexibility and willingness to adapt is what it takes to own and run a successful business.
What does success look like for your business?
At REeology, success goes beyond the number of events we host. It’s being able to provide a space where our local community can gather with an intentional purpose, whether it’s to celebrate a milestone, build, support a cause, or simply come together. Success is hearing the positive comments from our guests as they walk out the door at the end of an event. A client’s referral to a friend, or a positive social media post. At the end of the day, people remember how you made them feel and that’s our goal.
What advice would you give someone who is thinking about starting their own business?
My advice to anyone thinking about starting their own business would be to tap into your resources and don’t be afraid to ask for help. I know we are in an individualistic world and independence is such a hype, but get involved in your community and find a hub or network that offers the different tools, resources, mentorship, and connections you’ll need to succeed. Surround yourself with people who can help you learn, challenge you, and encourage you along the way.
What’s next for your business?
REeology is continuing to expand our impact. Explore opportunities like this interview, finding ways to create even more meaningful community activities, and experiences that give people a reason to connect, collaborate, and celebrate together. As we look toward the future, we’re excited about building new partnerships with local businesses, organizations, nonprofits, and community leaders. I believe that when we work together, we can create opportunities that are bigger than any one business and have a lasting impact on the people and community we love and serve.
Learn More
Visit their website to learn more about Reology Studio. Read more about Lancaster’s small business community in our latest publication, Small Business Success— A resource magazine for small business owners and entreprenuers throughout Lancaster County!
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