Local Invention Making it Into Backyards Across the Country

The idea for one of the most successful inventions to come out of Kendall County began during a game of bags about four years ago.

“There was always a need for something to not only hold our drinks while we were playing, but also to keep score,” said advertising entrepreneur Jason Pesola, who owns the Yorkville-based Pesola Media Group with his wife, Keri.

After a little brainstorming and putting together some prototypes, the idea for the Backyard Barkeep was born.

Hailed as “the best drink holdin’ score keepin’ device on the market,” the Backyard Barkeep drink holder includes built-in bottle openers, two drink holders, a Backyard Barkeep score card to keep track of victories and two score card clips. The stands are sold in sets of two.

“It’s the perfect Father’s Day gift as well as holiday gift,” Jason Pesola said.

Getting the product off the ground was a natural succession to Pesola’s job in marketing and advertising.

“I know how to launch a product and get it out to the marketplace so this was an easy fit,” he said.

Word-of-mouth advertising has also played a part in the Backyard Barkeep’s success.

“A guy picked up a set last week when he was going camping. Because of his camping trip, we sold an additional four sets,” Jason Pesola said. “Once someone sees it in action they’ve got to have one.”

And despite the economy’s woes, business is booming for the Backyard Barkeep, with orders coming from all over the country.

“This year has been our best year so far,” Jason Pesola said.

In the past year, Backyard Barkeep has traveled the country sponsoring various events including the Cornhole/Bags World Finals held in Las Vegas, NV.

For more information, visit http://backyardbarkeep.com.