Jason A. Smith | The Valdosta Daily TimesDanny Crosby, owner of Toads and Teacups and Danny’s Music, has been working in the music industry since he was in high school.

VALDOSTA — Being an entrepreneur isn’t always easy and everyone does it a little differently. Some open online stores, while others open brick-and-mortar storefronts.

Some go all in and invest their lives into a new venture, while others start a new business as something to do on the side. Regardless of the type, entrepreneurs help drive the local economy.

Danny Crosby, owner of Danny’s Music and Toads and Teacups, began his career in music before he had graduated high school.

He worked for M & M Music for 20-25 years under the tutelage of Sydney Morris.

During that time, Crosby said Morris “basically raised” him in retail, and to this day, he still uses some of Morris’ teachings on how to operate a successful business.

It was in 2005 when Crosby and his wife, Sue Crosby, bought the existing business Toads and Teacups. Crosby was looking for something else to do.

He researched the business when it come up for sale and decided to buy into it.

Originally, the Toads and Teacups focused on selling clothing for toddlers and infants. It has since expanded into selling furniture, toys and travel systems for toddlers and infants including strollers and carseats.

It was in 2008 when the Danny’s Music portion of the store opened, Crosby said. He was working for a corporate music store in Valdosta that eventually closed.

He stayed with the other music store until the day it closed, Crosby said. But when he walked out the door for the last time, he walked into the door at Toads and Teacups and opened his music shop.

As of right now, the music side of the business rents band and orchestra instruments, sells guitar, drums, keyboards and accessories. Crosby carries the brands Dewey, Yamaha, Alvarez, Shure, Peavey and others.

When asked what advice he would give to a future entrepreneur, Crosby said to work hard.

“You have to be committed to be a super hard hard worker and be willing to work long hours,” he said.

Toads and Teacups/Danny’s Music Shop, 1601 Baytree Road, Suite B2, is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call (229) 244-7220. 

Jason Smith is a reporter at The Valdosta Daily Times. He can be contacted at 229-244-3400 ext.1257.