A Fun Spin on Dentistry: Dr. McCormick’s Entertaining Venture

Bryden McCormick, a Fuquay-Varina dentist and owner of Fuquay Family Dentistry, shares how he went from economics and banking to dentistry, then to creating McWally’s after seeing the town’s need for a family entertainment spot. He explains the years-long process from concept to opening on August 20, 2025, including feasibility studies, working with family entertainment consultants, covid-driven cost increases that doubled the project to $20 million, and securing SBA financing through a small Wisconsin bank. With events and marketing manager Emily Jones, he highlights McWally’s bowling, arcade, food, bar, outdoor patio, and 5,000-square-foot laser tag arena, plus the challenges of managing a large teen staff, heavy party volume, and plans for a potential second location.00:00 Dentist Meets Fun02:50 Why Dentistry Chose Him04:11 Landing in Fuquay-Varina05:02 The McWally's Idea06:08 Covid Costs and Investors07:43 Naming McWally's08:44 Balancing Two Businesses09:41 Financing Hurdles11:01 Emily Runs Events Marketing12:26 Laser Tag and Murals16:03 Community Reaction and Vision18:34 Running Day to Day19:26 Leadership Behind Scenes20:17 Juggling Parties21:08 Bright Open Vibe23:29 Favorite Activities24:27 Advice for New Owners26:45 Dream Add-Ons27:32 Second Location Plans28:25 Surviving Weekend Rush28:55 Year Two Excitement30:01 Follow and Book Parties30:26 Closing Thanks