How a corporate leader found freedom by acquiring an outdoor design business
Ann Li
April 7, 2025 ⋅ 3 min read
Every business owner has a unique journey filled with challenges, aspirations, and pivotal decisions. For Lindsay, the path led from a successful corporate career to the world of entrepreneurship through the acquisition of Collective Creative Outdoors, a design-and-build company specializing in outdoor landscapes. Her experience highlights the importance of finding the right platform and support system to navigate the complexities of buying a business.
About the Business
Industry: Outdoor design and build
Location: Austin, TX
Services: Residential outdoor design and construction, including pools, outdoor kitchens, pergolas and landscape architecture
The Challenges
After a decade in the corporate world, Lindsay sought more than career advancement. She desired the freedom to chart her own course, make her own decisions, and build something tangible. This desire led her to explore the possibility of acquiring a business.
"I’d rather mess up trying my way than play it safe and miss the chance to grow—personally or professionally," Lindsay explained.
Traditional methods of finding and acquiring a business felt outdated and inefficient. Lindsay needed a modern solution that provided transparency, support, and a streamlined process.
Why Baton?
Lindsay's journey to Baton was through Acquimatch, a company that connects buyers with their dream businesses. Baton stood out due to its modernized, tech-forward approach to SMB acquisitions. Lindsay was impressed by Baton's commitment to streamlining the buying process through digital interactions and organization
"The one thing that did stand out experience-wise was there was a very clear attempt to be more digital-forward... It was so appreciated to have that organization as well," Lindsay noted.
From "Hello" to Close
Lindsay's experience with Baton was marked by clear communication, proactive support, and a streamlined process. Here's a closer look:
Weekly Meetings: Baton’s process ensured a regular cadence of communication with weekly meetings. "Baton did a great job of making sure that there was a weekly meeting... It's so important to have regular communication because so much is flying around," Lindsay emphasized.
Responsive Support: Baton’s M&A Advisor, Reid, was highly responsive and accommodating, promptly addressing any scheduling conflicts.
Vetted Seller Commitment: Baton had already vetted the seller's commitment through videos and Q&A, demonstrating the seriousness of the opportunity. "Look how much work Baton has done to ask all the questions any normal buyer would ask about this type of business," Lindsay noted.
Modernized Process: Lindsay was particularly impressed by Baton's tech-forward approach. "There was a very clear attempt to be more digital forward... It's time, it's well overdue to have more digital interactions. It should not be left to phone calls."
The deal went smoothly, and Lindsay acquired Collective Creative Outdoors.
Keys to Success
When asked about advice for aspiring business buyers, Lindsay emphasized the importance of knowing your "why." Buying a business is challenging, and resilience is key. Staying connected to your motivations will help you navigate the inevitable obstacles and emerge successfully.
"There was a very clear attempt to be more digital-forward... It's time, it's well overdue to have more digital interactions. It should not be left to phone calls." - Lindsay, Owner, Collective Creative Outdoors
