When West Virginia born Kyle Mcquillian first met Jay Roderick of Broadway while working in the Bio Pharma industry he never could have known they would one day cofound a company. Kyle was kind enough to sit down with me for this interview so that we could all learn more about the latest new business to open in Broadway.
Fast forward to the point the two friends decided they wanted to open “A Business” they began talking to lots of people around the Shenandoah Valley doing research into what type of businesses people might have a need for and they kept hearing a reoccurring theme. Some form of “unless you want to go hiking or do something in nature, there’s not much to do around here”.
Back home in West Virginia Kyle would attend gatherings called Rendezvous, social events that featured things like shooting matches and people throwing axes in friendly competition. He knew just how much fun this was. After brining the idea of including axe throwing in the business to his friend Jay, they began detailing their plan.
But what would they call it? Kyle came up with the name for the company by using the names of two types of axes people throw. Beard Axes and Broad Axes. If you look carefully, you will see that the axes are different on their logo. Some folks thought it meant other things, which makes the name that much more interesting.
So, what do they have at Beards and Broads?
“At Beards and Broads we offer axe throwing, full service restaurant and so much more. We have all kinds of games for customer to enjoy!”
In addition to axe throwing lanes diners will love the menu which includes Pizza, Pasta, Panini as well as Gelato and other deliciousness. Most of the food is cooked in a very large brick oven that’s in full view of especially those seated at the bar. It’s important to mention that they have an amazing selection of beer and wine to choose from.
Everything on the menu and in the business is carefully selected for the best possible employee and guest experience. Guests are encouraged to offer their feedback because it helps them find ways to continuously improve.
“If you start with the want to build a positive culture environment and you genuinely put love and effort into it the community will do the rest.”
Authenticity is a key philosophy.
Both Kyle and Jay are closely connected to first responders and part of the veteran community. So doing things to support and honor them is a very intentional part of the brand. A banner dedicated to these hero’s adorns the wall and section of patches is already starting. They give back by partnering to help organizations including those serving veterans as well as private individuals facing health problems or other challenges.
Beards and Broads first location opened in Harrisonburg in 2019. The Broadway location opened in August of 2022. Any additional locations that open in the future will also need the right blend of company brand but will always honor local heroes and have town specific touches. Growth of the business and additional locations will depend on building out the organization with people that have the same heart for service that they do.
Each location employs between 7 and 13 people that are engaged in serving customers. Often the reviews left by customers on google and social media specifically name employees. This is an indication of how much focus on the company’s effort to hire based on personality and positive attitude.
The best way to experience what Beards and Broads has to offer is to visit them their new location next door to the Broadway Post office. However you can learn more about the company, its menu, hours of operation and mobile events if you visit them on social media or their official website: beardsnbroads.com.
