KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The oldest Plaza carriage business is getting hit hard by the economy.
They hope to ramp up enough business this holiday season to stay in the saddle.
Before Peewee hits the plaza spotlights, Becky McGee dolls him up. She uses vegetable oil to hold glitter to his hoofs.
Becky's family took over Kansas City Carriages eight years ago. The company dates back 30 years.
"It's great. It's a little bit stressful on my end," explained Becky.
In fact, stress has been building all year. Business is down 40 percent.
"Like every small business we had to make adjustments as we went along. It's not always been the prettiest adjustments we needed to make," said owner Bobby McGee.
The McGee's cut down carriage ride service from seven days a week to four days a week. They sought corporate clients to partner with, but they hope the biggest boost will begin with the Plaza Lighting.
"This time of the year it's what we all look forward to not just for the business aspect but just for the atmosphere," said Becky.
Twenty-two horses along with Peewee rotate shifts on the Plaza each night. And starting Thanksgiving they will return to seven nights a week service.
"I love it. I'm the one that gets to be with every person that gets on the carriage," explained Becky.
Peewee is apparently a fan favorite. This will be his 11th Plaza Lighting. The McGee's just hope they'll be around for a 12th.
