Today we’d like to introduce you to Meggan Kimberley.
Meggan, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Three years ago, before the covid pandemic, I was the VP of International Sales & Marketing at LionsGate Entertainment. My focus was Eastern Europe, Russia, and CIS countries. I sold films like Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Gone Girl, The Revenant, Noah, and Marley and Me (to name a few). After companywide layoffs, I used my newfound free time to work on my ranch and was prepping to be an international sales consultant. Then, as we all experienced, covid hit! I always knew I wanted to make a business out of my ranch property, but I never knew the opportunity would come so soon. So, I began and Prospector Ranch was born. As an entrepreneur, I worked to turn Prospector Ranch into a shooting location, mainly for filming and photography. At the time, people were looking for more outdoor guest experiences, so I decided to open up two Airbnbs on our ranch. The first is a Vintage 1972 Ambassador Airstream and the second is a Luxury Conestoga wagon. Our guests get the full ranch experience with 5-star lodging. I love providing a place where artists can create and guests can adventure. Some of my favorite shoots have included filming for Jay Leno’s Garage and the September Cover Story for Harpers Bizarre Magazine. I am also passionate about using the property for good and fundraising. Recently, we hosted our first fundraiser for Children of Hope & orphanages in Uganda. Prospector Ranch is really something to experience, so I hope you’ll come out to feel the magic.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Considering Prospector Ranch was started during covid, our team has become experts at overcoming challenges. Everything in our first two years was a challenge! I believe any new business owner can relate. But I think the most important part of being an entrepreneur is coming up with creative solutions to the obstacles. When you’re becoming great, there will always be challenges. For Prospector Ranch, getting the word out during a pandemic was an obstacle. People were dissuaded from gathering, so we opened up more outdoor spaces. I took classes with The Small Business Association of Ventura County. They offered advice on starting a small business and the classes were completely free…Always a plus in the early days of operation! In a market where locations companies compete for a small share of the market, I focus on customer service and creating a genuine, memorable experience as well as doing good in the community. Our property is really unlike anything else. Once guests see it, they fall in love.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Prospector Ranch?
My husband Chris Warme and I own the ranch where I founded my business. Prospector Ranch is an intimate event venue nestled in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains just 30 minutes from Los Angeles. Our property, which spans 10 acres, is perfect for film, fashion shoots, and special events. On site, we have authentic western sites including a saloon, mercantile building, mine shaft, outhouse and a 2500 square foot remodeled main house also available for renting. Our property also includes a guest ranch for unique overnight stays. Guests are greeted in the Saloon and offered a beverage. They can continue their adventure in our luxury Conestoga Wagon or choose to sleep under the stars in our 1972 Vintage Airstream. Both provide an authentic western experience and an unforgettable experience.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
One of the things I love most in this world is my ranch family: Yes – we have 2 goats, 3 ponies, 7 cats, 2 dogs, and a partridge in a pear tree (just kidding about the last one). My philosophy is the more the merrier. Our ranch is full of love and energy from our animals. I like spending time with them and watching the joy and presence they bring to our guests. Something I dislike in this world is fake people. Authenticity is something I value deeply which is why I love when artists film or photograph on our ranch. It is a place of peace and nature, perfect for creating something real.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.prospectorranch.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prospectorranch/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prospectorranch/
- Other: https://www.prospectorranch.com/blog/the-story-of-a-female-owned-small-business
Image Credits
Shayleene Macreynolds
