Biz Buzz shares business tidbits from across the tri-states. This edition highlights recent developments in Dyersville, Iowa; Galena, Ill.; and Dubuque.

A pack of six has kicked off a custom apparel store in Dyersville.

Six Pac Apparel is run by Trisha Recker with help from her husband, Travis, and four sons — a 10-year-old and triplets aged 8.

Recker took over the screen printing business last summer from two friends who wanted a career change. Despite her nerves at first, Recker said the help of these friends, and being able to rent a space in Dyersville from her father-in-law, gave Six Pac Apparel a good start.

“The stars aligned,” she said. “We were kind of like, let’s do it, we have the space, we have the equipment.”

Originally, the plan was to launch in January after fully preparing the storefront at 325 Second Ave NE. However, the previous owner’s loyal customers were eager to get in their Christmas orders, so Recker had to attempt to fulfill them while still setting up shop. She said the help of her friends, husband and understanding customers helped make this transition a bit smoother.

“We jumped in full speed,” Recker said. “Thankfully, everyone who came to us was accommodating.”

Now, Six Pac Apparel is now in full swing. The company produces clothing and hats for businesses and individuals, offering services like screen printing and direct-to-film transfers. Recker said she outsources embroidery work.

Recker said she prides herself on building a personal relationship with clients. She has made apparel for family, friends and local charitable events like Western Dubuque Wingfest.

“We’re just like any small-town, family-owned business,” she said. “We’re here for the community if you’re wanting that small-town business feel, that one-on-one relationship (and) knowing who you’re working with.”

Recker said she hopes to grow the business over time and eventually purchase an automatic press to replace her manual one as well as offer embroidery in-house.

Currently, the storefront is open by appointment only, although Recker said she is usually available Tuesday through Friday. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 563-543-5976. More information is available at sixpacapparel.com.

Bread & Vine makes progress in franchising efforts

A Galena-based brand is making significant progress on growing nationally after first launching a franchise last year.

Bread & Vine, a fast-casual bistro based at 217 S. Main St. in Galena, serves a variety of French cuisine.

Owner Eric Bonnetain said a Tampa, Fla., location will open around June, with locations in Boston and the Chicago suburbs opening in the fall. The exact Chicago suburb has not yet been selected, he said, but a handful of western and North Shore suburbs are among the contenders.

“The goal will be to close 2025 with 10 franchises,” Bonnetain said. “When you reach 10 locations, it actually goes faster — you have a booming business.”

The new locations will have a similar look to the Galena store — “very modern, sexy,” Bonnetain said — but will be bigger spaces with bigger bars.

Bonnetain said he is looking to expand into wealthier neighborhoods with high foot traffic but prefers suburban areas over city downtowns due to their affordability.

Prospective franchisees will train for three weeks in Galena and then three weeks at their own location.

Despite all these developments, Bonnetain said his Galena customers will not see anything different.

“Galena will stay the same,” he said. “It’s a very successful location.”

Information about the franchise can be found at breadandvinerestaurants.com/franchise. Those interested in partnering with Bread & Vine can fill out a form at that link, call 561-329-8850 or email ebonnetain@gmail.com.

Dubuque boutique relocates

A Dubuque boutique has moved across Dodge Street into its new home.

Accessorize Me opened at 3100 Cedar Crest Ridge, Suite 5, on Monday after spending several years at 2794 University Ave.

The store offers typical boutique items such as blouses, bottoms and dresses, but it largely focuses on accessories — hence the name.

“We have women’s accessories mostly but some men’s too,” said owner Ali Bandy. “We offer handbags, jewelry, special occasion jewelry — which is really hard to get in Dubuque. … We love to help our customers put their whole outfit together and accessorize it.”

By the nature of her industry and the products she sells, Bandy is about to enter her busy season.

“Prom and wedding season is big for us,” she said. “May and June … are busy. We serve a lot of bridal parties and brides.”

Bandy said she collaborates with other area small businesses, selling some products from local crafts supplier Oh So Jo. She is also involved philanthropically and recently donated to University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

Moving into a new location marks the latest career milestone for Bandy, who started working at the boutique part time in 2011 and worked her way up to becoming its owner in 2021.

Bandy expressed gratitude to her longtime customers, crediting them for her business’ success.

“I want to say thank you to our loyal customers,” she said. “We hope to see you at our new store.”

These loyal customers will notice some differences at the new location, though much will remain the same.

Bandy downsized slightly, owing to a market she said recently has been unfavorable to businesses that offer “fun” products as opposed to essentials. However, she said, the new building is “beautiful,” and she has added some new lines and now has a designated bridal room.

“(The new store) will be a bit more compartmentalized,” she said.

More information on Accessorize Me is available at accessorizemedubuque.com.