Drew and Betty Thomas

For Drew and Betty Thomas, franchising was never just about owning a business. It was about building a life together that centered on purpose, partnership, and creating meaningful experiences for families in their community.

Like many couples, their journey began at a crossroads. Drew had spent decades in a demanding corporate career, giving everything he had to his role. Over time, the burnout became impossible to ignore. Betty saw it clearly and encouraged him to imagine something more fulfilling.

“We knew we didn’t want to work for someone forever. We were thinking about the future and what we wanted our next chapter to look like. Drew was getting burnt out, and we started talking about running a business together.”

That decision to pursue entrepreneurship as a team became the foundation of their power couple story.

From Burnout to a New Chapter

The Thomases approached their search with intention. They explored numerous opportunities, visited different businesses, and ruled out far more options than they kept. They were not just looking for a strong investment. They wanted something that aligned with their values as parents and partners.

That clarity came during a birthday party.

Drew took one of their daughters to a party at an Urban Air Adventure Park. The experience immediately stood out.

“I drove up and the parking lot was packed. I could not find a single space and had to park in the grass. When I walked inside, the lobby was full of kids, and every attraction beyond it was packed. I remember thinking, they must be doing something right.”

In that moment, a light bulb went off. Urban Air stood out not only for its demand, but for what it represented for families.

Seeing the Business Through a Parent’s Eyes

For Betty, the appeal went far beyond the numbers.

“As a mom, you are always thinking about what you can do for your kids. You do not want them sitting at home all weekend. Urban Air gives families something to look forward to.”

That perspective became even more personal when she reflected on one of their daughters, who is more introverted by nature.

“She would stay in her bedroom all weekend if she could, but she loves going to Urban Air. It gets her out of the house. We will pick up a friend she already knows, and they will play together for a couple of hours.”

Even when Betty is not beside her the entire time, the experience still feels shared.

“I will be sitting in the café and catch glimpses of her running by. It still feels like a family day.”

Urban Air offered a balance that mattered to them. It created independence for kids and connection for families.

A Place Where Kids Can Just Be Kids

As parents, Drew and Betty quickly connected with Urban Air’s purpose. It was not just entertainment. It was a place where memories are made.

“When you come to Urban Air for a birthday party, you understand the purpose right away. It is a space where kids can just be kids. They can run around, burn energy, and enjoy being fully present.”

That mission resonated deeply with them as owners and as parents.

Business Is Better Together

At the heart of Drew and Betty’s journey is their partnership. They're intentional about trust and respecting each other’s strengths.

“Trusting your partner and their skill set is everything. We do not have to be good at the same things. We are better because we are different.”

That mindset shapes how they operate their business and how they show up for their family. Decisions are shared. Challenges are faced together. Wins are celebrated side by side.

A Valentine’s Day Reminder

This Valentine’s Day, Drew and Betty Thomas are a reminder that the strongest partnerships are built on trust, shared vision, and the courage to take the next step together.

For them, Urban Air marked the beginning of a new chapter. One where purpose replaced burnout, family came first, and business truly became better together.