Brass House

White and his business partner, Gene Todorov, came back from Afghanistan in 2012 and when looking to establish new careers, the two decided to open a jazz club.

"The Marine Corps trains a lot of individuals in leadership and attitude," White said. "You come out with a lot of great traits that still apply to the business environment."

They also brought in another friend, Jace Lane, to be the general manager of the business.

While he was deployed in Afghanistan, White said he began researching Austin to decide what type of venue he should open. He said he settled on live jazz and blues because he saw a gap in the market for that style of business.

"I've been to Sixth Street several times, and I know there's a lot of rock bands, rockabilly, country," White said. "But there was only one other jazz club and blues club at that time in Austin, so we thought, 'Why not be a combination of the two?'"

That decision has paid off since the venue opened, White said. The jazz club has been growing its revenue and already has a "big local following," he said.

Todorov said musicians are also excited about the jazz club because it gives them a chance to play the music they enjoy.

"When we opened this venue, they were ecstatic to come here," Todorov said.

Along with music, the business also offers food service, and Todorov said Brass House is known for its martinis.

Brass House, 115 San Jacinto Blvd., 512-649-1253, www.brasshouseaustin.com