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How Billy Snyder’s Franchising Dream Came True with Big Frog of Cumming, Georgia

Photo from 2015 when Snyder completed his training at Big Frog University.

Billy Snyder’s journey from employee to franchise owner with Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More is one marked by dedication, resilience and community spirit. Inspired by his mentor and former boss, Tim Campbell, Snyder has transformed a childhood job into a full-fledged ownership experience, bringing his unique passion and expertise to the Big Frog location in Cumming, Georgia.

A Career Shaped by Mentorship and Opportunity

Snyder began his career with Big Frog in 2012, joining as a graphic designer at just 19. He attributes his growth and advancement in the company to Tim Campbell, who later became the store’s second owner.

“Tim had come from the corporate world, where I believe he was the president or CEO of Aramark, and he became the best mentor I could have asked for. I learned everything I know through him,” said Snyder. Campbell’s mentorship, combined with his corporate experience, gave Snyder the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate the franchise model, ultimately fueling his ambition to one day own the store himself.

When Campbell passed away in 2017, Snyder found himself recalling his mentor’s encouragement to take on ownership. Although the idea initially seemed far-fetched, he found himself gradually coming around to it. “The more I thought about it, the more the idea started to grow on me,” said Snyder. “Over the years, I realized I could do it.”

His journey wasn’t without challenges, however; during the COVID-19 pandemic, Snyder took a temporary leave from Big Frog due to financial strains but was later called back to help stabilize the struggling business. He returned and managed to increase revenue by $100,000 in his first year back.

A Family Partnership to Fulfill a Dream

The opportunity to purchase Big Frog arose shortly after, and Snyder didn’t hesitate. He partnered on the franchise with his grandfather, who fronted him the necessary funds. “My grandfather is basically the ‘bank,’” Snyder said. “He gave me the loan to buy the store, but he’s not involved in the day-to-day operations. His words were, ‘I just want to be the bank, and I trust you to run it.’” This support has allowed Snyder to focus on his vision for the store while maintaining a legacy his grandfather also values.

Choosing the Franchise Route for Growth

For Snyder, owning a Big Frog franchise has given him a deep appreciation for the benefits of franchising. “I could have started my own print shop, but Big Frog is a national brand, and this store has been part of the community since 2009,” he said. “Sticking with a brand that’s tried and true was the smarter move.”

Reconnecting with the Community

Snyder’s approach to business is grounded in a commitment to the community. He’s actively re-engaging with the local Cumming area, joining the chamber of commerce, attending small business meetings and working to increase Big Frog’s presence at community events.

“Tim was very involved in the community, and people still remember him fondly,” Snyder said. “Unfortunately, we haven’t done much in the community since Tim passed, but that’s something I’m working to change.” He has already started making charitable donations to organizations like the Humane Society of Forsyth County and Meals by Grace and is determined to establish Big Frog as a community-focused business once again.

Building a Legacy Through Continued Growth

Snyder is also dedicated to seeing the business grow beyond its current state. “My main goal is to grow the business,” he said. “Right now, the store makes enough to sustain itself, but I didn’t buy it just to maintain the status quo. I want to see year-over-year growth, and I think the best way to achieve that is by getting more involved in the community.”

Snyder understands the path to success will not always be easy, but he’s ready for the challenge. “Owning a business is terrifying, and there’s a lot of stress that comes with it,” he said. “I had to take out a loan to buy the store, and if it fails, I’m bankrupt. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be done. My first month was positive, and while my second month was slightly negative, overall, we’re up for the year. There will be ups and downs, but if you’re committed, it’s worth it.”

Advice for Aspiring Franchise Owners

For anyone considering a similar path in franchising, Snyder has practical advice. “Franchising isn’t for everyone. It really depends on the franchise and how you’re wired as a person,” he said. “I sat on the idea for seven years before pulling the trigger, and now that I’ve done it, I’m glad I did. It’s hard work and there will be nights when you’re staying late, but it’s so much more rewarding when you’re doing it for yourself.”

Moving Forward with Big Frog

With his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to honoring his mentor’s legacy, Snyder has found his footing as a franchise owner. As he continues to build his Big Frog business, he is redefining what it means to be part of both the Big Frog franchise family and the Cumming community, one custom T-shirt at a time.

Big Frog of Cuming is located at 1070 Market Place Boulevard, Cumming, GA 30041. They specialize in direct-to-garment printing (DTG), as well as offering all other garment decorating services like embroidery, screen printing, and more. They serve individual consumers, small and large businesses, associations and schools, and nonprofits and other organizations throughout their community. Find out more at BIGFROG.COM/CUMMING.