We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Dylan Herzog a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Dylan, appreciate you joining us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

The idea came to me one morning, sitting at my kitchen table with a cup of coffee, scrolling through endless forums and articles on home golf simulators. As someone who had spent years teaching kids the game through First Tee-Metro Atlanta and working in judicial administration, I had always carried a passion for the sport. Yet, I struggled to find a way to immerse myself in the golf industry beyond personal enjoyment and coaching. I wanted something that would allow me to merge my love for the game with a sustainable business.

One evening, I found myself daydreaming about having my own personal golf simulator. The idea of being able to practice whenever I wanted, regardless of weather or time constraints, was exhilarating. I started researching the logistics, the cost, the technology. As I fell deeper down the rabbit hole, a thought struck me. If I wanted this experience in my home, how many other people out there felt the same way but didn’t know how to make it happen?

That was my lightbulb moment. I realized that a golf simulator wasn’t just a luxury; it was an experience that could be shared and enjoyed by many. I thought about all the potential events where golf lovers, casual players, and even complete beginners could be introduced to the game in a fun, accessible way. Corporate events, weddings, private parties, fundraisers—any gathering where people wanted a unique, interactive entertainment option.

I envisioned setting up in grand ballrooms, open-air pavilions, and intimate backyard gatherings. I saw the smiles of guests, the competitive excitement of colleagues at a corporate function, the joy of a father and son taking swings together at a wedding reception. The possibilities were endless, and for the first time, I saw a clear path into the golf industry that didn’t require owning a course, becoming a club pro, or working in golf retail.

That night, I couldn’t sleep. I was too fired up. I started sketching out a business plan, researching equipment costs, and brainstorming potential marketing strategies. By morning, I knew this wasn’t just a fleeting idea. This was something real, something viable, and most importantly, something I was deeply passionate about.

The journey ahead was going to be challenging, but I welcomed it. Because for the first time, I saw an opportunity to build something that combined my skills, my experience, and my lifelong love for golf into a business that could bring joy to others. And that was a dream worth pursuing.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

At Golf Party Rentals, we specialize in bringing the thrill and excitement of golf to any event, anywhere. Our state-of-the-art simulators provide an immersive and realistic golfing experience, perfect for parties, corporate events, and special occasions. Whether you’re an avid golfer looking to perfect your swing or a newcomer seeking a fun and engaging activity, our portable simulators are designed to cater to all skill levels and interests.

Our commitment to excellence goes beyond just providing high-quality equipment. We offer tailored packages and exceptional customer service to ensure your event is nothing short of spectacular. From setup to takedown, our professional team handles every detail, allowing you and your guests to focus on enjoying the game.

What sets GPR aside from others, is the fact that it is accessible to anyone in and around the greater Metro Atlanta area for parties and events.

I have been working hard with a manufacturer in designing a new enclosure for the simulator setup. It will double the current one in size and will provide a more immersive experience for clients and guests.

I am also very proud of our partnership with BombTech Golf, a club manufacturer from Vermont. We partnered with them early on and feature a set of their premium clubs in the GPR setup.

Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?

Before launching GPR, I spent over a decade working in government judicial administration and case management at a courthouse in the Atlanta area. I had reached the highest level my position allowed and was earning the highest salary of my career. Yet, despite the stability and financial security, I felt unfulfilled. I knew I wanted more. Something that truly excited me. For years, I had a growing passion for the golf industry but struggled to find a way to break into that space.

When the idea of a portable golf simulator company came to me, it felt like the perfect opportunity. I saw the potential, the impact it could have, and most importantly, I felt an undeniable pull toward making it a reality. But to turn this vision into a business, I needed capital. That’s when I made the biggest decision of my life—I resigned from my job, withdrew my entire pension that I had diligently saved over the past decade, and used it as my initial investment to go all in on this new endeavor.

It was a leap of faith, a risk that many would have hesitated to take. But deep down, I knew this was the right path for me. Looking back, I have no regrets. Now, I’m finally living my dream and working in the golf industry, connecting with like-minded individuals, and sharing my passion for the sport I love. Taking that risk was the best decision I ever made.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Building my reputation within the market was not something I did alone. It was a team effort, and that made all the difference. From the very beginning, I had the support of close entrepreneur friends who had already navigated the challenges of running their own businesses. Their mentorship was invaluable, providing me with guidance on strategy, operations, and overcoming obstacles that every new business faces.

In addition to their advice, I was fortunate to have talented friends who contributed their expertise to help establish my brand. A close friend who is an exceptional graphic designer played a crucial role in shaping my marketing and advertising, ensuring that my brand looked professional and engaging from day one. Another friend, a skilled photographer, helped capture high-quality photos during events, showcasing the excitement and energy that my portable golf simulator brings to every occasion.

The biggest lesson I learned through this process is that you don’t have to—and shouldn’t—do it alone. Surrounding myself with people I trust, who believe in my vision and bring their unique skills to the table, was instrumental in building my reputation. A strong network and a solid team elevate a business, and I’m grateful for the support that helped me establish myself in this industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.golfpartyrental.com
• Instagram: @golfpartyrentals
• Facebook: Golf Party Rentals

Image Credits

Photo credit: Ryan Okeeffe