Jan. 22, 2019

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Rhiannon Israel, owner of Welcome Sioux Falls.

Name: Rhiannon Israel

Age: 29

Hometown: Scottsville, Ky.

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

We were relocated to Sioux Falls for my husband’s job. His employer gave us the option to live anywhere between Fargo and Sioux Falls, so we did our research and chose Sioux Falls. Making the move for his job meant that I had the opportunity to make a change in my own career path. Back then, I didn’t know that meant I would become an entrepreneur, but here I am now and loving it!

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

After our move here, it took a little time, but I eventually fell in love with Sioux Falls and all it has to offer. We see this as a great place to put down roots, focus on our careers and start a family. The establishment of Welcome Sioux Falls LLC is another major player that is sure to keep us around for quite some time!

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

Being a resource to help people as they move to Sioux Falls. Moving to a new city is difficult no matter who you are. It makes a big difference if you have somebody that is enthusiastic about helping you find your place in a new community. I love being able to provide my support, knowledge and understanding to new members of our community.

What made you decide to start your business?

One day my husband mentioned that I should look into starting my own business. At first I thought he was crazy, but then I started researching possibilities and couldn’t turn back. My personal experience with relocation and my passion for Sioux Falls is ultimately why I chose to create Welcome Sioux Falls LLC.

Describe Welcome Sioux Falls in three words.

Enriching. Enthusiastic. Quality.

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

Volunteering my time for nonprofit organizations. This is something that has been a part of my life for many years. Not long after moving to Sioux Falls, I partnered up with a couple of friends and created Kicks for a Cause. The purpose behind Kicks is to provide a family-friendly kickball tournament for local nonprofits to use as a way to raise awareness and funds for their organizations. It was a lot of fun and great way to give back to not just one but many nonprofits in Sioux Falls! For 2019, I have decided to focus my time on one specific cause that is near and dear to my heart, HorsePower.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

A dine-in Thai restaurant.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

My dream is to have a positive impact — no matter how big or small — on each relocation coming into Sioux Falls. In five years, I see Welcome Sioux Falls LLC being the No. 1 resource local employers use to assist in their employees’ relocation process! I also see Welcome Sioux Falls LLC being the reputable resource individuals and families use even if they do not have an employer funding their move. Look out, 2024, here I come!