Meet Dustin Dluhy: Managing Mastermind

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dustin Dluhy and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dustin, how did you fund your business? Do you think you would do anything different if you could go back?
Since our start in 2012 we’ve been completely self funded, growing the company organically and avoiding debt as much as possible. Building a business this way certainly can add a few more years to the growth road map as relationships get built and business ramps up, but I would not do it any other way. In my experience the self funded route forces one take serious stock in every business decision and where every dollar gets spent, after all it is you money your playing with. When you succeed, so does the company, when you stumble or get lazy, that has it’s effect as well. It’s great accountability really.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Centric Events & Rentals has been kickin’ it since 2012. Every week were awarded the opportunity to serve the corporate world as well as brides on their special day. This diversity is what sets our products and services apart. The word Centric means “at the center” At the center of Centric you’ll find some of the most dedicated and professional, people. Might I add funny! What excites me of late? These people. Working with them, growing with them, and ultimately leading them well so they can lead others well. I believe the biggest reward and challenge for any business is people. It’s difficult to grow beyond yourself if your people are not quality. Quality takes time to find. A bad hire is a drain on your team and can be avoided if you take the time to look. My Brand is successful because of my team, and my team is certainly top shelf!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’ve always envied Downtown Denver for is quirkiness and culture, and I’m happy to say that our Downtown has evolved to offer much of that here. Spending any time at the restaurants and venues lined up along Roosevelt row are a must. I’d also head up to Sedona for some sightseeing and hiking, especially oak creek canyon. Hanging around the pool is a must during the summer.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Oh man, there have been so many individuals since the beginning that have helped shape me and ultimately the business’s success, so I’ll keep with highlighting four. I’d like to thank Mrs. White, my high school business & marketing teacher, for helping me fully realize my knack and passion for entrepreneurship. Second will be The Walker family. Their Godly wisdom and openness about running their own operations with integrity is and always will be encouragement on how to lead with character for me. Third would be Kyu, owner of Conceptually Social Catering. He was sincere enough to connect me, and ultimately vouch for me with many of his clients. Years later we’re still working together. Many of my favorite events to date have been partnership opportunities made with him. Last but certainly not least Paul Thomas, owner of Arizona Stage. His mentor-friend-ship is something I am continually thankful for, walking me through some of my greatest successes and also though some difficult calls.