In 2016, Jordan and Stacey Smidt moved to Luverne from Larchwood, Iowa, after purchasing Big Top Tents and Events. Jordan’s previous experience in the tent rental industry played a key role in successfully acquiring and growing the business.

In 2020, the Smidt's took a leap of faith and purchased the former Boomgaar's building in Luverne. They remodeled the space into an event center to accommodate larger gatherings in the community, hosting their first wedding there in 2021. The event center has since become a versatile venue, capable of hosting large celebrations while also being reduced in size for business meetings, birthday parties, graduations, and other smaller events.

As a niche business, Big Top Tents and Events travels several hours from Luverne to serve customers across the region. Over time, the Smidt's have expanded their reach by absorbing the inventory and customer lists of other area tent companies.

Committed to enhancing the community experience, Jordan and Stacey have also created an indoor game area featuring Nerf gun activities and a virtual reality room. Stacey noted that most of their bookings come from word-of-mouth referrals and social media advertising.

Big Top Tents and Events prides itself on strong employee retention, with the Smidt's describing their team as invested in the company’s success and part of their family. As a full-service, one-stop shop, the business provides tents, tables, chairs, and portable restrooms—making event planning convenient and seamless for their customers.

Thank you to Jordan and Stacey for spending the morning with SWMN CEO young professionals and also for being a financial sponsor of the program!