Growing up in Des Arc, Arkansas, Dana Neely developed her passion for barbeque watching and helping her father smoke and slather ribs in the Delta style. Identifying her journey to opening her own restaurant as “a recreation of my childhood,” she has traveled a sometimes-rocky road in pursuit of a big dream.
Eager to see the world, Neely left the Delta and landed in London, England, working as a barista at world-famous Harrods. Her next adventure took her back across the pond to Washington (state) where she received a degree in photography from The Art Institute of Seattle. To fund her love of travel and pursuit of photography, she worked various catering jobs. She also soon learned that she could not find the kind of barbeque she loved in the west.
Neely began cooking her family recipe of ribs for friends, later researching the possibility of a barbeque catering business as the demand for her ribs grew. Developing a menu of ribs, slaw, mac n’ cheese, and cornbread, a solid idea for Girls Gone BBQ was born. Starting out with small catering jobs, she went full-on in 2014, selling at the West Seattle Farmer’s Market and her catering business really took off.
In 2019, Neely traveled to explore Northwest Arkansas and decided to investigate the potential of a Fayetteville location. Learning of the free resources offered by the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center at the University of Arkansas, she reached out to business consultant Lori Lieblong for counseling and guidance.
The adage that “life happens while you are making plans” came into play in early 2020 with the first location falling through and COVID-19 hitting the country with everything coming to a standstill. Shortly thereafter, Neely was diagnosed with breast cancer and endured seven surgeries plus radiation. During this time, she participated in the weekly Restaurant Forum offered by the center for NWA restauranteurs. “The forum helped keep us informed during the pandemic and gave us a place of community to brainstorm ideas and solutions,” according to Neely.
ASBTDC consultant Lori Lieblong offered comprehensive market research, guided Neely through the creation of a formal business plan and financial workbook along with a creative brief. “Lori helped me take my big idea and create the foundation needed to open the brick-and-mortar location,” said Neely.
Girls Gone BBQ opened in late August 2022 following a two-week soft opening with 4 full-time and 6 part-time employees. Pitmistress Neely offers her BBQ of ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and Arkansausage with a Delta tang. Four sauces, multiple salads, sides, Nana Puddin’ and seasonal cobblers complete the menu along with vegan and vegetarian options.
View the menu at https://girlsgonebbq.com
Girls Gone BBQ is located at 2630 E. Citizens Drive in Fayetteville for dine in, takeout and delivery.
