The Kitionas live in Hurstville, Sydney. John worked two jobs, a morning shift and then an afternoon one which meant he usually got home after his three kids, Paul, Mark and Sarah aged eight, four and two were in bed.

Mette Kitiona, his wife, works full time and prior to taking on a Jumping J-Jays franchise the couple felt that something had to change. Family life was suffering and they really weren't gaining financially from their efforts.

The Kitionas had hired Jumping J-Jays castles a few times before and when they checked out their website they found that the Hurstville franchise was available.

...the couple felt that something had to change.

"There were no other franchises in jumping castles at that time. There were just backyard castle people and we personally liked the idea that with Jumping J-Jays we didn't have to take the calls and make the bookings. Everything was done for us and we just went out and did the work. Working full-time and trying to take other people's calls just wasn't viable for us."

Jumping J-Jays provided all the equipment they needed. Initially they bought 12 castles but that was 4 years ago and as the business has grown they have purchased another six to satisfy the growing demand, particularly in summer.

All the bookings are made through a national support office which is open from 7am to 7pm.

Everything was done for us and we just went out and did the work.

Most franchisees live in the area they service and John and Mette get involved in their local community by attending local events and sporting clubs. They also have a sign at the front of their house to draw attention to their business.

The franchise has given the Kitionas more family time. They set up the castles in the morning and then collect them in the afternoon leaving the middle of the day free for relaxing or going on family outings.

The business is a team effort with both Mette and John taking part in all aspects of the work. Even their son Paul likes to help with the setting up by carrying the hammer and pegs. "He just loves to get involved with Dad," said Mette who sometimes sets a castle up in the backyard as well. "The kids don't get sick of it. My daughter asks every weekend if we can have a castle."