Local business guide to new students

By: Taite Read

Art Director 

Small businesses thrive in Stephenville with support from the community.

Being in a small town, lots of small businesses offer discounts to Tarleton State University students when they show a valid student ID.

Samantha McCoy, who is a Tarleton student, owns her own spray tan business called Stay Golden Tans. 

“I am college owned and operated, and I love giving student discounts because I know it helps out other students just like myself,” she said. 

McCoy started Stay Golden Tans in 2019. She offers different spray tan options and wants to give her customers a safe and beautiful tan. 

She has her spray tan booth inside of Brush and Blush Salon off the square. 

“I love working with other small business owners because we all support each other and get to serve our community,” McCoy said. 

McCoy mentions Brush and Blush Salon offers a variety of services such as hair color and cuts, eyelash extensions, nail services and more. 

Ileah Leone-Roquemore, owner of Cowgirl Coffee and Bagel Co., opened her business 14 years ago in California. She has now served the community of Stephenville for a year. 

Roquemore loves being a small business owner and getting to share business with others.  

“My favorite part is all the other businesses and business owners. Pendleton Law office and the wine bar have welcomed me in and made me a part of the community,” Roquemore said. 

Cowgirl Coffee and Bagel Co. serves hot, iced and blended coffees. Roquemore also offers smoothies and herbal teas. 

The food menu features different kinds of bagels, croissants, paninis and apple nachos. 

Owning and operating a small business comes with many responsibilities.

Roquemore gives a piece of advice for others wanting to start their very own small business.

“Get your paperwork done, and get the word out there,” she said. “Get your products out there, and have good customer service.” 

You can find the Cowgirl Coffee and Bagel Co. trailer at 270 W College St. behind Hearsay Wine Bar. Roquemore also takes her trailer to barrel races and team ropings.

Her business is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Lida’s Food Basket has been open since 1992, and Courtney Elleby has run it since 2019.

Elleby agrees how important it is to be supported by the community. 

“It makes me happy and proud when customers come in and say how happy they are we are here,” Elleby said. 

Lida’s Food Basket has a diverse menu. They have a variety of baked goods, including pies, breads and cakes. They also cook homemade casseroles. 

Lida’s Food Basket is located at 1111 W. Frey St. 

Many of the small businesses in Stephenville have been open for a long time and passed down for others to keep their legacy open. 

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