Matchstick Games: A Community Treasure for Game Enthusiasts

Nestled in the heart of the community, Matchstick Games is more than just a local game and novelty store—it’s a dream brought to life by owners Andy Baker and John Hollifield. Their journey to ownership is one of passion, resilience, and a deep love for gaming culture.

A Dream Years in the Making

Andy Baker’s love affair with card stores began in childhood. He can recall the first time he ever stepped foot in a card shop. As he got older, he would frequent these shops, telling owners to keep him in mind if they ever needed a business partner. That dream became a reality in 2022 when the previous owners of Matchstick Games decided to move on and offered Andy the chance to take over. Andy leaped at the opportunity, determined to create a space where everyone, regardless of their background, could feel welcome and enjoy their favorite games.

John Hollifield joined the team later, officially becoming a partner in February 2024. John’s journey in the gaming industry began before the COVID-19 pandemic when he owned a shop in Winchester, KY. Unfortunately, the pandemic forced him to close his doors. However, his expertise in inventory management and behind-the-scenes operations made him the perfect complement to Andy’s customer-facing skills. Together, they’ve built a dynamic partnership that has propelled Matchstick Games to new heights.

A Thriving Gaming Community

What started as a few game nights each week has grown into a bustling schedule, with Matchstick Games hosting avid and dedicated players from Monday through Saturday. Andy and John have cultivated a space where people from all walks of life can come together to enjoy tabletop and card games. This sense of community was central to Andy’s vision when he first took over the store.

One of their standout events is the monthly Learn2Play night, which invites children from the community to learn about the famous game Pokémon. Each child leaves with a prize and a belly full of snacks, a testament to Andy’s dedication to creating a safe and fun environment for kids. For Andy, this initiative is deeply personal. Having grown up in poverty in Pikeville, Kentucky, in a small, crowded home plagued by substance abuse issues, he knows firsthand the importance of having a safe haven. Now a father of three, Andy is committed to ensuring that children in the community have a place to escape and simply be kids.

Living the Dream

When asked about the financial side of running the business, Andy smiled and shared a piece of advice from a beloved Professor Carlise: “You don’t have to sweat for the coach. All you’ve got to do is play the game and you’ll sweat. That’s how the money is. Open the doors and treat customers well—the money will follow.”

This philosophy has guided Matchstick Games through its evolution, prioritizing community and customer experience above all else. Andy and John have created a welcoming hub for gamers while proving that a business built on passion and genuine care for people can thrive.

Matchstick Games isn’t just a store; it’s a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and the power of dreams. If you’re ever in the area, stop by and experience the magic of this incredible community hub.

To learn about their scheduled events, follow Matchstick's FaceBook Page HERE.

To learn more about starting a business of your own, contact Lager & Company HERE.

Do you know an inspiring entreprenuer who needs to be interviewed? Send sarah@lagerandcompany.com an email with their info!