Queen of Pawns Celebrates 30 Years of Success at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
This year marked a momentous milestone for Queen of Pawns—30 years of commitment, service, and excellence in the pawn industry. To celebrate three decades of growth, passion, and community, the Queen of Pawns family came together for an unforgettable day at the scenic Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo in Central Florida.
The event was more than a celebration—it was a reflection of our journey, our values, and our vision for the future. Surrounded by the rustic charm of the ranch, with open fields, cowboy hats, and plenty of sunshine, the entire day was designed to bring our team closer together, while also honoring the legacy and mission that have carried Queen of Pawns this far.
A Heartfelt Kickoff: Breakfast and Words from the Founders
The day began with a warm and welcoming breakfast. With the scent of fresh coffee and southern biscuits in the air, employees from every Queen of Pawns location gathered at the breakfast tables, reconnecting with familiar faces and meeting new ones.
Shortly after, the founders of Queen of Pawns took the stage, expressing their gratitude for the team’s hard work, loyalty, and dedication over the past three decades. Their heartfelt words were both touching and inspiring, reminding everyone of how the company started—with a single store, a bold vision, and a belief in the power of people. They reflected on the highs and lows, the changes in the industry, and how the company’s core values have remained the same: integrity, compassion, and community.
A Powerful Message: Guest Speaker Yigal Adato
Following the founders’ address, we were honored to hear from Yigal Adato, a renowned leadership coach and industry expert in the pawn world. Yigal’s talk was nothing short of impactful. With passion, humor, and honesty, he spoke about the importance of leading with authenticity and building strong company culture.
Drawing from his own experience as a pawnbroker turned leadership strategist, Yigal challenged attendees to think beyond the daily grind and connect to a deeper purpose. He emphasized the importance of mindset, effective communication, and showing up as leaders in both work and life. His message resonated with everyone in the room, energizing the team for the rest of the day.
Bonding Through Team Building
After the morning sessions, it was time to move, laugh, and grow together. Team-building activities kicked off with dynamic games and group challenges led by Yigal Adato. Whether it was problem-solving exercises, competitive games, or quirky icebreakers, the focus was on collaboration, trust, and fun.
Employees were placed in mixed teams, encouraging connections across different departments and store locations. There were plenty of laughs, high-fives, and "aha" moments, as participants learned the importance of listening, supporting one another, and thinking creatively under pressure. The activities not only brought a sense of camaraderie but also reinforced the values that drive Queen of Pawns forward every day.
Training for Growth: Afternoon Workshops
The afternoon offered a unique opportunity for personal and professional development. Queen of Pawns organized three specialized training sessions, and attendees could sign up for the workshops that best aligned with their roles and interests.
Topics ranged from customer experience mastery to inventory management and leadership development. Each session was led by industry experts or internal leaders who brought valuable insights, actionable strategies, and fresh perspectives. These sessions allowed employees to sharpen their skills, ask questions, and walk away with tools they could immediately apply in their day-to-day roles.
The flexibility of choosing sessions gave team members the ability to personalize their experience and explore areas they were passionate about. It was yet another reminder that Queen of Pawns invests not just in its business, but in its people.
A Southern Feast: BBQ Lunch
Midday, the aroma of smoked meats and grilled vegetables filled the air, drawing everyone to the outdoor dining area for a delicious BBQ lunch. The feast featured classic southern staples: ribs, grilled chicken, mac and cheese, cornbread, and refreshing lemonade.
As everyone gathered around the tables, laughter and conversations flowed easily. It was the perfect moment to relax, recharge, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the ranch. The sense of community was palpable, with stories, memories, and appreciation shared all around.
Afternoon Adventures: Ranch Activities for All
With full bellies and energized spirits, the afternoon transitioned into free time for employees to enjoy all that Westgate River Ranch had to offer. The resort, known for its outdoor adventures and cowboy spirit, provided a wide range of activities to choose from, catering to every interest and adrenaline level.
Some team members saddled up for horseback riding, exploring the scenic trails and connecting with nature. Others tested their aim and patience at the skeet shooting range, enjoying the thrill of hitting clay targets against the open sky. For the more adventurous, the swamp buggy tours offered a wild ride through Florida’s natural wetlands, full of excitement, wildlife, and mud-splashing fun.
There were also quieter moments to be had—some wandered the grounds, visited the petting farm, or simply kicked back on the porch swings with a cold drink. The freedom to choose their adventure allowed each person to create memories their own way, all while soaking in the beauty and serenity of the ranch.
Ending the Day with Celebration: A Night to Remember
As the sun began to set and golden hour lit up the sky, the Queen of Pawns team gathered one last time for a small celebration to wrap up the incredible day. The closing party was cozy yet festive, with music, refreshments, and space for everyone to unwind, connect, and reflect.
People shared stories from the day’s adventures, caught up with colleagues from other locations, and danced under the stars. There were hugs, photos, and lots of laughter—a perfect way to end the day on a high note. It was a celebration not only of the company’s 30th anniversary, but also of the people who make it all possible.
Looking Ahead
Queen of Pawns' 30th anniversary was more than just a party—it was a reminder of what can be achieved through hard work, unity, and shared vision. The event at Westgate River Ranch was a testament to the company’s dedication to its employees, its roots, and its bright future.
As we look toward the next chapter, we carry with us the spirit of that day—one of celebration, growth, and connection. Here’s to 30 more years of making a difference, one pawn ticket and one relationship at a time.
