Crevier’s Academy of Cosmetology Arts: A Small Business Success Story in Kalispell
In February 2025, Kassaundra Flammond and Therese Brininger purchased Crevier’s Academy of Cosmetology Arts. Both former students of the academy, Flammond and Brininger now instruct cosmetology students in manicuring, barbering and esthetics at the sprawling 6,500-square-foot facility in downtown Kalispell.
Before they became co-owners of Crevier’s Academy, Flammond and Brininger sought help from their local Small Business Development Center to craft a comprehensive business plan, develop financial projections and understand the business buying process. The Montana SBDC network is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Montana Department of Commerce.
Rob Driscoll, regional director of the Kalispell SBDC, said, “Working with Kassaundra and Therese was inspiring. Their dedication to Crevier’s Academy proves that they have what it takes to be at the top of their industry.”
Crevier’s Academy has been operating in Kalispell since 1958. Its coursework includes hands-on training and teaching students how effective communication techniques help build loyal clientele and foundations for success. Since buying the business, Flammond and Brininger brought a friendly and knowledgeable staff to encourage a positive and fun learning environment. They have five full-time employees and are in the process of hiring more.
Thanks to the help of the Montana SBDC, the Academy’s co-owners are excited to help others achieve their dreams and serve their community. Flammond and Brininger said, “Rob helped us with the whole process from start to finish. By guiding us through the business buying processes, we were better prepared to be business owners.”
To help small businesses succeed, the SBDC network supports 10 regional centers across the state, focusing on free one-on-one counseling and low-cost training in areas such as financial analysis, business planning, strategic planning, loan packaging, financial projections and market research to help small businesses achieve their goals of growth, innovation and success.
Through the SBDC, small businesses have access to resources such as webinars and checklists for whatever stage their business is in. They can find startup guides, business plan templates and detailed licensing information along with inspiring success stories from across the state. Whether they use these tools to work through the process on their own or contact their local SBDC advisor for free business advice, the Montana SBDC can help them become another small business success story.
To access the Montana SBDC’s resources and request business assistance, visit commerce.mt.gov.
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