<h2><!--block--><span data-trix-cursor-target="left" data-trix-serialize="false"></span><figure contenteditable="false" data-trix-attachment="{"content":"<figure class=\"rte-inserted-image\" data-img-size=\"large\" data-img-align=\"center\" style=\"max-width:75%;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;\"><img src=\"https://uyluucdnr2.ucarecd.net/19f9b1ea-7b96-4f73-8655-1eea52b6f09d/-/resize/1400x/-/format/auto/-/quality/smart/\" alt=\"2 - 7708989 - _DSC7215TonyDeMelo-2.jpg-19f9b1ea-7b96-4f73-8655-1eea52b6f09d\" data-media-id=\"6a3ba24a8ecc55be14283a60\" data-component-role=\"\"></figure>"}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" data-trix-id="13808" class="attachment attachment--content"><figure class="rte-inserted-image" style="max-width:75%;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;"><img src="https://uyluucdnr2.ucarecd.net/19f9b1ea-7b96-4f73-8655-1eea52b6f09d/-/resize/1400x/-/format/auto/-/quality/smart/"></figure><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure><span data-trix-cursor-target="right" data-trix-serialize="false"></span>Early Marketing and Business Launch</h2><div><!--block-->A. After work each day, I would visit new developments, distributing information about my company in welcome letters to residents. Additionally, I created a visually appealing sticker that I attached to a 12-inch vertical blind slat, a popular trend at the time. I would then hang these items on door knobs when the occupants were not home.<br><br></div><div><!--block-->Q. Compared to today's multi-media world, it's hard to believe that this type of community outreach would work. What was the outcome?<br>A. As a result of my efforts, I began receiving calls. After my work day with my father, I would return to my condominium in Mahwah for dinner before resuming my work, estimating and installing products. This is essentially how I established my business.<br><br></div><h2><!--block-->Family Legacy and the Shift to Independence</h2><div><!--block-->Q. What was it like working for the family business?<br>A. During my formative years, I worked at my grandfather and father's store on Saturdays, primarily engaged in glass and screen repairs. This exposure to the industry significantly influenced my upbringing. Upon my father's passing in 1993, I realized my desire for a distinct experience, both for myself and my customers.<br><br></div><div><!--block-->While brick-and-mortar stores were financially demanding and required a rigid 9-to-5, 6-day work schedule, I sought a different path for myself and my family.<br><br></div><h2><!--block-->The Mobile Showroom Innovation</h2><div><!--block-->Q. Where did the concept of a mobile showroom come from? <br>A. In 2013, the concept of a mobile showroom originated from a home consultation visit. I vividly recall visiting a home in Wyckoff, where a woman expressed immediate interest in wood blinds upon my arrival. She promptly put on her coat. I inquired if she would like to reschedule, as she appeared to be in a hurry, She declined, stating that she was merely putting on her coat to view samples in my truck. She said that she thought my truck was my store.! I clarified that it was only a box truck containing my samples and books on shelves.She apologized for the misunderstanding. Overwhelmed by the idea, I immediately called my wife, informing her of the remarkable concept that was just presented to me. Thus, the mobile showroom concept was born.<br><br></div><h2><!--block-->Products, Services, and Competitive Advantage</h2><div><!--block-->Q. What are the trends today in window coverings?<br>A. Today, the trend in window coverings is home integration and motorization. Our most popular product is the Duette honeycomb shade, which offers unmatched energy efficiency with a compact footprint that allows you to maintain a cooler home in the summer and a warmer home in the winter.<br><br></div><div><!--block--><br>Q. What is the unique selling point or differentiating factor of your company vs the budget window covering companies?<br>A. The primary benefit of our company is our ability to visit your home with our store stocked with Hunter Douglas products, providing you with an exceptional shopping experience as we offer virtually every conceivable window option.<br><br></div><div><!--block-->Unlike Amazon or budget blinds, which are similar companies, we are a local family-owned business that supports an American Made company with a lifetime warranty. Additionally, we can deliver and install products at a significantly lower price point than our competition.<br><span data-trix-cursor-target="left" data-trix-serialize="false"></span><figure contenteditable="false" data-trix-attachment="{"content":"<figure class=\"rte-inserted-image\" data-img-size=\"large\" data-img-align=\"center\" style=\"max-width:75%;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;\"><img src=\"https://uyluucdnr2.ucarecd.net/7122df57-3f24-4c35-a236-a84c5818e572/-/resize/1400x/-/format/auto/-/quality/smart/\" alt=\"3 - 7708990 - _DSC7223TonyDeMelo-2.jpg-7122df57-3f24-4c35-a236-a84c5818e572\" data-media-id=\"6a3ba26d8ecc55be142843f7\" data-component-role=\"\"></figure>"}" data-trix-content-type="undefined" data-trix-id="14603" class="attachment attachment--content"><figure class="rte-inserted-image" style="max-width:75%;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;"><img src="https://uyluucdnr2.ucarecd.net/7122df57-3f24-4c35-a236-a84c5818e572/-/resize/1400x/-/format/auto/-/quality/smart/"></figure><figcaption class="attachment__caption"></figcaption></figure><span data-trix-cursor-target="right" data-trix-serialize="false"></span></div><h2><!--block-->Family Tradition and Personal Life</h2><div><!--block-->Q. You worked with your grandfather and father. Is the family tradition continuing to the next generation? If so, why is that important?<br>A. My son, Jack, has worked with me since he graduated college and has assisted with installations since he was five years old. He has been an invaluable addition to our company, demonstrating exceptional efficiency in both installation and sales.<br><br></div><div><!--block-->While I do not anticipate continuing this endeavor indefinitely, I am currently providing Jack with the necessary tools for his success. He is beginning to develop his own style, but I am confident that he will be able to elevate our company to new heights and continue serving the area that I established since 1987.<br><br></div><div><!--block-->Q. Life is not all work and no play. What do you enjoy doing outside of running a business?<br>A. Outside of assisting homeowners in enhancing their homes, I enjoy landscaping, motorcycling, and spending time with my family. My wife, Stacey, is an administrator at a school in Verona, and we have a hobby farm in our backyard. There is always something to do around the house! Furthermore, I am passionate about working outdoors and maintaining our landscape. In addition, I enjoy spending time in my man cave where I collect old Pinball machines and motorcycles. Stacey and I have been married for nearly 28 years, and she has been incredibly supportive of my business endeavors.<br><br></div><div><!--block-->We are delighted to have the opportunity to meet with you at your home and provide suggestions for your window projects. I can assure you of a second-to-none experience in a serene and relaxed environment.<br><br></div>
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