Success Story _ Cedar Enterprises

Cedar Enterprises | Durango, CO

When Bryan Wendt faced an unexpected corporate layoff in 2015, he didn’t retreat—he reinvented himself. Drawing on his extensive knowledge of the outdoors, strong work ethic, and entrepreneurial spirit, Bryan founded Cedar Enterprises, the parent company of Southwest Hardscapes and Cedar Fire Mitigation. What began as a personal pivot quickly evolved into a mission-driven business focused on sustainability, safety, and innovation.

Based in Durango, Colorado, Cedar Enterprises has steadily grown, serving communities across the region with a dual purpose: creating beautiful and functional outdoor spaces while helping property owners reduce wildfire risk through expert fire mitigation services. In a state increasingly affected by drought and wildfire, Bryan’s two-division model has allowed him to address both aesthetic and environmental needs with equal care.

Through Southwest Hardscapes, Bryan and his team design and build custom outdoor living spaces, from patios and retaining walls to full landscape transformations. Meanwhile, Cedar Fire Mitigation specializes in creating defensible spaces, thinning, and other essential services that help protect homes and properties in wildfire-prone areas. Together, the two entities provide a comprehensive approach to outdoor management that balances beauty and safety.

Like many small business owners, Bryan has faced his share of challenges. Labor shortages have created ongoing difficulties, limiting the pace at which he can grow. Still, his commitment to quality and his adaptability have been crucial. When Bryan secured a Forest Service contract and invested in a major piece of equipment, he sought support from the Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) serving the Southwest.

Working with Colorado SBDC consultant Bert Carder was a turning point. Together, they performed a cost-benefit analysis that gave Bryan the confidence to formally expand his services and implement his two-division model under Cedar Enterprises. Bert also helped with digital marketing strategies, which significantly boosted client outreach and enabled Bryan to grow his customer base.

As a result of this strategic guidance, Cedar Enterprises grew from a one-person operation to a small yet powerful team of four employees. This growth has not only increased the company’s capacity but also contributed to local job creation—an important impact in a region where skilled labor is in short supply.

Bryan’s business reflects many of the Colorado SBDC’s core focus areas: supporting underserved communities, preparing for climate-related challenges, and helping small businesses remain competitive through innovation. From enhancing private properties to contributing to wildfire preparedness across the region, Cedar Enterprises exemplifies how thoughtful entrepreneurship can benefit both people and the environment.

Looking ahead, Bryan remains committed to building on this solid foundation. With two integrated but distinct entities, Cedar Enterprises continues to discover new ways to serve the community—demonstrating that resilience, vision, and the right support can transform uncertainty into long-term success.

For more information about landscape design, fire mitigation, or lot preparation services, visit Cedar Fire Mitigation and Southwest Hardscapes.

Article written by Denise Leslie.