Our Story
Our Story
Hello, we're Ryan & Jessica Gudenkauf, the proud owners of The Cornhole Cave, a local, family-owned company with a passion for cornhole. Our journey began in 2020, a year that brought unforeseen challenges and unexpected opportunities.
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The Seed of Inspiration: At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, our lives took a turn. Jessica, an elementary school teacher, and Ryan, working in orthopedic medical sales, found themselves facing new circumstances. As Ryan's work slowed down, he discovered a newfound love for cornhole. He started tossing bags in his backyard, and the sound of bags hitting the target became a comforting rhythm.
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Quality Quest: Intrigued by the game, Ryan decided to invest in a set of boards and bags. However, his excitement turned to disappointment when he realized that the products he received didn't live up to his expectations. The quality and gameplay just weren't there.
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Seeking Better: Determined to find the perfect set, Ryan began his search for a reputable cornhole store. To his dismay, his quest for quality was met with disappointment once again. This experience ignited a spark – the idea of creating a place where cornhole enthusiasts could find the exceptional quality they deserved.
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The Inception: In the spring of 2021, The Cornhole Cave was born. We opened a 900 sq ft brick-and-mortar retail shop right here in Wichita, KS. It was more than just a business; it was a space where fellow enthusiasts could gather, share stories, and find top-notch cornhole products.
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Craftsmanship Unveiled: Our commitment to excellence didn't stop at retail. By the fall of 2022, we decided to take our passion to the next level. Ryan embraced the manufacturing side of the industry, acquiring a UV printer and CNC router. An old family shed, lovingly restored, became our manufacturing hub – a testament to our dedication and ingenuity.
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Growing Dreams: As we dove deeper into crafting exceptional cornhole boards, our dreams of expansion grew. In September 2023, we'll be embarking on an exciting journey – upgrading our facilities to encompass both retail and manufacturing under one roof. With a 4000-square-foot space, we'll be able to create even more quality products and provide an enhanced shopping experience for you.
The Power of Community: None of this would be possible without the incredible support of each and every one of our customers. You are the driving force behind our pursuit of the American dream. We're excited for the future, both for our small business and the beloved sport of cornhole. Your trust, passion, and love for the game inspire us to keep pushing boundaries and crafting experiences that celebrate the joy of cornhole.
Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. Here's to more bags tossed, more friendships made, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.
Sincerely, Ryan & Jessica Gudenkauf
Owners, The Cornhole Cave
