After being laid off when his employer unexpectedly closed down, Springfield’s Ryan Hartley started a printing business in his garage that has led to true success, writes Rick Kauffman for the Daily Local News.

Hartley started the printing and design company Heartline Press 11 years ago, and this June he will be honored with a Small Business Award from SCORE of Chester and Delaware Counties.

Utilizing his extensive experience in creating two-color business cards and envelopes, Hartley started the company in his garage and soon grew the business beyond the capacity of his home.

“My wife Jennifer told me, ‘You have got to get out,’” he said. “So in 2009, I opened up the shop.”

His shop on Bridgewater Road in Aston has numerous advantages over his previous setup, including sophisticated digital equipment that enables him to print in the full range of colors.

Hartley gives credit to SCORE, which provides free professional business counseling to small businesses and entrepreneurs, as it helped him consolidate his business and improve his workflow.

“I can satisfy so much more and complete work so much faster now,” said Hartley. “I went from working 18-hour days, seven days a week, to having more of a regular work schedule.”

Read more about Hartley’s success in the Daily Local News by clicking here.