About Style

While Weather is Frightful, Ensure Your Holidays Stay Delightful

name.nospam@nospam.example.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:44:00 -1400

During the holidays, making sure loved ones are safe, happy and healthy is always #1 on everyone’s wish list. Since it’s a priority for all of us here, we put together a safety check list for you to use to prepare for the season.

- Check to make sure window treatments have enough room to close properly. Homeowners can prevent burglaries by remembering to close the windows and window coverings completely before leaving the house or going to sleep.

- Remember to keep curtains, tablecloths and bedding away from heaters. If you have small children, opt for cordless blinds or ensure cords, a strangulation hazard, are kept well out of the reach of children. Cordless Cellular Shades are a great option since they have no accessible cords; these shades are also excellent insulators so rooms will stay warm in the winter.

- Check portable heaters and electric blankets for damage or frayed cords before use. It’s best to only use one heating appliance per power outlet and always switch them off when not in use.

- Extinguish candles or any other open flames before going to bed, and always handle candles or anything with an open flame with care. It is also important to remember to store lighters and matches in a safe place far from the reach of children.

- If you plan to purchase a live holiday tree, be sure to cut 1⁄2-in. of the tree’s base to expose fresh wood (most tree retailers provide this service), and then place the tree in water. Check your water daily and place your tree far away from fireplaces, heaters and stoves.

- Avoid using old extension cords or dated incandescent lights to prevent power shortages and fires. Replace your holiday lights with LED or mini-lights. LED or/and mini-lights not only conserve energy and reduce maintenance costs, but they tend to be a safer alternative because they don’t use heat for illumination. Speaking of heat generating light sources, avoid using candles with live flame to illuminate your tree. Additionally, be sure to only use outdoor or weather resistant lights for decorating the outside of your home.

- If you have a fireplace in your home, make sure the chimney is clean and always place a screen in front of it when in use. If you plan to hang stockings on the mantle, be sure they are high out of the reach of dangerous flames and stray embers. Only use firewood in your fireplace as wrapping paper and boxes have dyes that can be dangerous when incinerated.

- Check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Experts recommend changing batteries at least twice a year to ensure your devices will work properly in the case of a fire.

- Make sure decorations and other objects are securely fastened on shelves. Always place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. In addition, be sure shelves, mirrors or frames are away from beds, couches and chairs.

- If you live in an area prone to flooding, mudslides or heavy snow fall, be sure to store sand, sandbags and shovels in a safe place should you need to use them. Use rock salt, cinder or other environmentally safe composts to keep sidewalks safe.

- Learn what kind of natural disasters could strike your region and be sure your emergency supplies are well stocked. This includes making sure you have food and water for 2 – 3 days and any medications you might need to treat an illness or injury.

- Make sure you have a plan. Talk to your family and loved ones and discuss how to prepare and respond to emergencies that could happen in your region. Decide on a place to meet outside your home should you need to evacuate and designate a non-resident emergency contact to be in touch with.

- Keep a portable gas tank, outdoor gas heaters and patio lamps stored in a safe place and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Portable outdoor gas heaters can cause fires if they are not properly used or stored.

- Avoid using outdoor heat sources indoors. Barbecues, grills, outdoor heaters emit hazardous gases and should only be used outside.

Get Inspired on Pinterest.com and Houzz.com

name.nospam@nospam.example.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 07:51:00 -1400

We’re excited to announce we’ve jumped on the internet’s next big crazes – Pinterest and Houzz.com!

To launch our Pinterest and Houzz.com profiles, we searched and scoured every page on the sites for our favorite holiday inspired crafts and décor and listed them here just for you! Follow the links we’ve provided and jump onto Pinterest and Houzz.com right away to learn to how to create these holiday inspirations for your home!

Are you already on these networks? We would love to see what inspires you! You can find us at www.pinterest.com/budgetblinds or www.houzz.com/budgetblindsofficial!

Top Pinterest DIY Holiday Crafts

1. Snow Globe (http://pinterest.com/pin/181340322465498666/)

Mason jars turned into snow globes courtesy of michaelanoelledesigns.blogspot.com.

2. Advent Calendar (http://pinterest.com/pin/181340322465498660/)

Create your own paper advent calendar with directions from http://niftythriftythings.blogspot.com.

3. Twine Ornaments (http://pinterest.com/pin/181340322465498664/)

For a country take on a seasonal classic, check out the tutorial from www.brownpaper--packages.com.

4. Door Wreath (http://pinterest.com/pin/181340322465498665/)

Learn how to create this stylish and sophisticated door wreath thanks to www.centsationalgirl.com.

5. Center pieces (http://pinterest.com/pin/181340322465498667/)

Elegant centerpiece you can make from recycled bottles courtesy of http://cleverlyinspired.blogspot.com.

Top Houzz.com Holiday Inspired Decor

1. Light blue color palette on this mantel piece adds an elegantly frosty feel.

Photo can be found at http://www.houzz.com/photos/90005/My-holiday-mantel-contemporary-living-room-other-metros from restyledhome.blogspot.com.

2. Vintage canvas along with textured fabrics brings warmth and cheer.

Photo can be seen at http://www.houzz.com/photos/94789/Christmas-Decorations-eclectic-living-room-huntington thanks to www.providencehandmade.blogspot.com.

3. Perfectly placed table décor puts everyone in the holiday spirit.

Photo can be seen at http://www.houzz.com/photos/94420/Christmas-Around-the-House-traditional-dining-room-kansas-city courtesy of sweetsomethingdesign.blogspot.com.

4. Stunning, rich decor brings elegance to the classic holiday tree.

Photo can be seen at http://www.houzz.com/photos/94398/Living-room-Christmas-2010---kansas-city also seen at sweetsomethingdesign.blogspot.com.

5. Classic holiday charm brings cheer to this country fireplace mantel

Photo can be seen at http://www.houzz.com/photos/90018/2010-Christmas-Decor-eclectic-family-room-philadelphia thanks to missmustardseed.com

Snuggle up to these tips to keep your home warm

name.nospam@nospam.example.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:18:00 -1400

Did you know by adding a window treatment over your window, you have a better chance of conserving energy in your home? Be sure your house is keeping in the heat by following these simple steps for better insulating your home:

• Think Like a Bee
Did you know cellular shades have insulating qualities to help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer? The construction of cellular shades, which are also known as honeycomb shades, make them an energy saving window treatment. Other excellent window covering choices for preventing heat loss are roller shades with lining or Roman shades with lining.

• Consider Custom Shutters
Wood or composite shutters offer the next best option to cellular shades for insulating your home. Shutters also provide excellent light control, and they coordinate with virtually any décor style.

• Bundle window treatments
Combine classic window treatments, like a cellular shade, a drapery panel, and a close-fitting cornice, to further enhance chill busting. When spring comes, switch heavy draperies for sheers and lighter fabrics. Remember, appropriately installed window treatments can cut heat loss by up to 25% according to the U.S. Department of Energy.*

• Find and Seal Air Leaks
Weather strip and caulk windows to seal air leaks and help eliminate drafts. Check for air leaks in other areas, too. The most common places for air leaks also include pipes around plumbing, unfinished gaps near cupboards, closets, and spaces surrounding lighting fixtures.

Every home is different, and window stripping and caulking procedures can vary depending on the size and location of your house. Be sure to check your ventilation needs for indoor air quality. **

Window coverings add an inviting finishing touch to any room, and during winter they can help keep your home warm and cozy. To update your window coverings, schedule a free in-home consultation today by visiting www.budgetblinds.com/request-consultation today!

Sources:

*U.S. Department of Energy, Window Draperies, Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy. Retrieved November 29, 2011 from http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/windows_doors_skylights/index.cfm/mytopic=13530
** U.S. Department of Energy, Weather Stripping, Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy. Retrieved November 29, 2011 from http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/windows_doors_skylights/index.cfm/mytopic=13530

Getting the home ready for the holidays

name.nospam@nospam.example.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:34:00 -1400

Whether you’ll be entertaining or traveling, we have the top tips for making sure your home is ready for the hectic holiday season.

1. It’s not all visions of sugar-plums
Set realistic expectations. Before you even start thinking about Thanksgiving turkey, Black Friday and holiday festivities remember what the season is all about – spreading love and cheer to all that’s far and near.

Take the time to create a calendar of all the holiday to-do’s you want to tackle. Set deadlines for each and plan time to get each task done. Start to de-clutter in early fall before you’re overwhelmed with dinner parties and last minute shopping. Update your greeting card mailing list and holiday wish lists while the family visits for Thanksgiving. Delegate cooking duties to family and friends. Enlist help from the kids by teaching them how to take on age-appropriate house work.

2. Make a list and check it twice
Set a budget early on and research practical tips to help you stay within your budget. Don’t underestimate how expensive homemade gifts can be and don’t overlook how far a batch of warm cookies with creative packaging can go.

List all the people you need to shop for with gift ideas to get an estimate of how much you might spend. Find out how they like to decorate their home, what their favorite foods are and what their other interests might be. Remember, it’s the thought that counts – not the price tag or discount.

3. Deck the Halls
Before you bring out the storage bins and boxes of decorations, be sure to clean the rooms that guests will be entertained in and pack away your home accent pieces that might clash with your holiday décor. The additional room accents can seem like clutter in a room that’s not neat and tidy.

If you have to move your furniture to make room for a tree, make sure you look for spots in the carpet that might be discolored. Use inexpensive rugs or runners that compliment your festive décor to hide carpet stains.

If you plan to place your tree in the window, be sure that there’s plenty of room between the tree and the window so that the treatments will close properly. Leaving the treatments open may seem like a nice way to spread holiday cheer among your neighbors but it also invites thieves to see into your home.

Motorized blinds offer a convenient solution for controlling your home lighting. Motorized Blinds Powered by Somfy® feature a timer to help you remember to close your treatments and can provide the illusion that someone’s home if you’re planning to leave town for the holidays. Most importantly, motorized blinds are inherently cordless helping to prevent harm to little ones, pets or even your holiday decorations!

4. Now bring us some figgy pudding
Whether you plan to take on the Thanksgiving feast with a one man army or have the pleasure of sharing your favorite dish with your family, it’s a good idea to start early and plan ahead.

Choose recipes that are freezer friendly such as mashed potato casserole or candied yams. Almost any dessert can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer to be ready in minutes after dinner is served and the oven is still warm!

If you’re hosting the holidays at your house, be sure the taste buds of your loved ones are fully satisfied with healthy appetizers and easy starters.

Looking for an easy clean-up tip? Fill a large sink or tub with hot water to place dinnerware in right away so food doesn’t stick to your fine china.

5. May you’re days be merry and bright!
Don’t let the holiday season overwhelm you with stress. We recommend you think of the traditions that your family members might have outgrown and think of new ones that bring a refreshing perspective to the season. Pick out the memories you and your family enjoy most and keep those as traditions.

Perhaps the kids have outgrown decorating sugar cookies and reading story books. Teach them the meaning of giving back and start a tradition volunteering at a soup kitchen or donating old clothes and toys to charity. Maybe it feels like there’s just no time to go caroling together. Play the songs your family likes to sing while getting the home ready for guests to arrive.

Whatever you end up doing to celebrate, sit back and relax so you can have enough energy left to start planning your new year’s resolutions. Happy Holidays!

Safety First; Style Always!

name.nospam@nospam.example.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 04:30:00 -1400

A couple of weeks ago we discussed choosing the right window coverings for your growing family. Because cords pose a potential strangulation hazard to small children and pets, cordless treatments like shutters, motorized roller shades, and cordless cellular shades are recommended for homes where small children are present because they enhance safety by eliminating cords.

What other potential dangers lurk in other rooms of the house? From the nursery to the bathroom, we have some great tips to heighten safety for your small children and pets for every room in your home.

The Nursery or Bedroom
Keep cribs, changing tables, toy chests and chairs away from window areas to restrict access to window coverings and reduce the risk of accidental strangulation. This step can also minimize the risk of your child falling through the window. Some parents opt to install window guards. Furthermore, in the event that the window glass breaks, positioning furniture away from the window reduces the risk of injury from broken glass. If you choose this option, look for American Society for Testing and Standards (ASTM) compliant window guards.

The Living Room or Den
Again, be sure to use cordless window coverings. Cordless Cellular Shades have no accessible cords. The shades are lowered and raised with the touch of a finger. These shades are also excellent insulators so rooms will stay cozy in the winter and cool in the summer. Plus, room darkening features can be added to encourage midday naps for infants and toddlers in any room of the house including the living room.

It’s a good idea to place floor lamps so they're out of your child’s reach and put table lamps towards the back of the table and wrap the cord around the table leg to keep it from dangling. Any appliances in the reach of your little one can be a potential strangulation hazard and should be moved.

The Bathroom
Decorating a kid’s bathroom can be really fun with all of the great products that improve safety while adding to a great design! Rule number one is to always supervise a child while in the bathroom. Never leave a child unattended.

Choose colorful, non-skid bathmats in fun shapes to prevent slip and fall accidents on wet floors. Drain and faucet covers are important, too. They help keep your little one from bumping against the metal edges of your bathroom. We found some really cute ones that resemble a spouting hippo at kaboodle.com.

Be sure to watch the temperature of your child’s bathwater as well. In order to be certain the water isn’t too hot or too cold for your child, we recommend choosing this kid-friendly gadget, the Safety Bath Time Audible Thermometer and Alarm by Aquatopia we found at www.kidsafeinc.com.

Remember to get cupboard and toilet locks as well. While most of these are fairly plain, www.kidsafeinc.com offers the KidCo Toilet Lock, a bestseller that’s easy to open for adults and prevent children from getting to harmful under the sink products or toilet water.

Additional Safety Tips
If you live in a home where you can’t install cordless window treatments, be sure to secure dangling cords out of reach with cord cleats, which are inexpensive and readily available at most home improvement stores. If your window treatment has a continuous cord loop, make certain that the cord is properly held in a cord tensioner that it’s securely fastened to the wall.

Customers looking to retrofit window coverings rather than replace their older treatments can order free retrofit kits through the Window Covering Safety Council website at www.windowcoverings.org or its toll-free phone line at 1-800-506-4636.

Another safety option that parents may want to consider is security film. The film helps maintain the integrity of the windowpane during a storm, earthquake or other impact such as wind-driven tree limbs or flying foul balls from the neighborhood game.

While these are just some tips to help ensure the safety of your home, there are many more that will help parents avoid the unexpected. Be sure to stay up to date with common safety tips by reading your favorite parenting blogs, books and magazines. BabyCenter.com is a resource with tips from experts and peers among many of the product sites listed here.

20-Year-Old Budget Blinds Seeking Franchise Prospects with Positive Attitudes

name.nospam@nospam.example.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 07:56:00 -1400

ORANGE, Calif. – Chad Hallock, Budget Blinds CEO and Co-Founder, recently presented Budget Blinds franchise offering to over 50 prospective franchise owners via a webinar

“We’re looking for people with positive attitudes who want to escape their cubicles to own and operate a local small business of their own to become Budget Blinds Franchisees,” said Hallock.

Hallock recalled that Budget Blinds started amid less than desirable economic conditions.

“It was 1992,” Hallock recalled. “Orange County was in a recession and the five of us decided to launch a brand new business. We all knew that it would take hard work, offering something our competition didn’t, and doing things outside of our comfort zones to survive in that sort of economic environment.”

Budget Blinds not only survived, it thrived. The five entrepreneurs offered homeowners the opportunity to shop for window coverings at home where their windows were.

“Few places were offering free in home consultations for window coverings in 1992, “ said Hallock. “Homeowners were ordering out of catalogs or driving to department stores and hoping that the product they chose coordinated with their décor and that their measurements were correct.

“We would visit the homeowner, share a number of samples, discuss the features and benefits of each of the options, take the measurements and install the product when it arrived,” said Hallock.

Within in months, they were selling $100,000 in window treatments monthly. By 1994, friends and past customers of the five founders of Budget Blinds were asking how they could open their own Budget Blinds businesses.

In 1996, Budget Blinds was ranked at the top of its category in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 listing and has remained there every year since.

The company will celebrate its twentieth anniversary in 2012, and the founders would like to add to its franchise base. Budget Blinds currently has 802 territories serving roughly 4,000 cities throughout the United States and Canada.

“We have plenty of desirable, exclusive territories available,” said Hallock. “We are about 40 percent sold out in the United States and 80 percent sold out in Canada.”

Hallock said that although there are 2,000 exclusive territories available throughout the United States that the company’s magic number is 1,500.

“With 1,500 franchise territories, we will reach a saturation level that will allow us to do really wonderful things on behalf of our franchisees, including more robust advertising and lead generation activities,” said Hallock.

FranData reports that Budget Blinds is unique among franchise organizations. Of the 1,500 franchise organizations in operation, only 30 of them have national advertising funds in excess of $10 Million. Further, Budget Blinds is among the less than one percent of franchise companies that contribute corporate dollars to its national advertising activities.

Already the company has developed programs that make it a desirable opportunity, like a Vendor Alliance with over 70 participating partners, preferred pricing, two private label product lines, an exclusive no-questions-asked customer assurance guarantee program, and free upgrades.

Recently, Budget Blinds re-launched its National Key Accounts program, which provides local franchisees access to larger commercial jobs they may have been excluded from if they’d been a small local independent window treatment provider. Scott Spielberger, the Budget Blinds franchisee serving Memphis, Tenn., recently completed a corporate project valued at approximately $200,000.

“Being a recognized brand makes us a desirable partner,” said Hallock. “Corporately, we’re able to secure a broader group of products at volume prices than a local independent operator could on his or her own. That, coupled with the fact that Scott is just a phenomenal franchisee was critical to completing that landmark project.”

Budget Blinds is actively seeking franchisees in the United States and Canada. Interested parties are encouraged to contact Budget Blinds to learn more about the franchise opportunity.

“It’s exciting to help people realize their dreams of owning and operating their very own local small business, but it also comes with a tremendous sense of responsibility to give folks every opportunity to do well,” said Hallock.

QUICK FACTS:

· Budget Blinds celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2012.

· Budget Blinds Franchise and Territory Fee is $74,950.

· The total investment range is $89,240 to $174,070.

· Budget Blinds is a home-based franchise opportunity

· Budget Blinds franchisees enjoy low overhead.

· Budget Blinds franchises require no inventory.

· Desirable, exclusive territories are available in the U.S. and Canada.

About BUDGET BLINDS, Inc. and Home Franchise Concepts

Based in Orange, California, Budget Blinds, Inc. was founded in 1992 and currently boasts over 800 franchise territories serving nearly 4,000 cities throughout the United States and Canada. In 2006, the founders of Budget Blinds, Inc. created Home Franchise Concepts to be the parent company to Budget Blinds and its sister concepts. As consumer demand for its quality, convenient services continues to grow, Budget Blinds is on its way to dominating the multi-billion dollar window covering market. Budget Blinds has been recognized as a leader in the franchise industry by organizations such as Entrepreneur, AllBusiness.com, Canadian Franchise Association, Inc. and Franchise Business Review. For more information on Budget Blinds please visit www.budgetblinds.com or our press room at www.budgetblinds.com/pressroom or call 1-800-519-6298. Learn even more by liking us on Facebook www.facebook.com/budgetblinds or follow us on Twitter @BudgetBlinds.

# # #

Budget Blinds Founders in 1992 and in 2011.

Top Row, L to R: Brent Hallock, Chad Hallock, and Tony Forbes

Bottom Row, L to R: Todd Jackson and David Lewis

Budget Blinds Founders, 2011: L to R: Todd Jackson, David Lewis, Brent Hallock, Tony Forbes, and Chad Hallock.

WHAT NEW PARENTS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WINDOW COVERING SAFETY

name.nospam@nospam.example.com (Webmaster) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 07:51:00 -1400

Budget Blinds, the leading custom window coverings franchise company in the United States and Canada, encourages homeowners to install cordless window treatments in homes where small children are present to enhance safety.

“Many new parents don’t include window treatments and window areas during the baby proofing process,” said Tracy Christman, vice president of Budget Blinds vendor alliance. “Window treatments that are perfectly safe for an adult may pose a tempting hazard to infants and toddlers who view dangling cords as playthings and may become entangled in them.”

The Window Covering Safety Council recommends that only cordless window products be used in homes where young children are present – including grandparents’ homes and child care facilities to minimize risk. Additionally, owners and renters should replace all window coverings in the home made before 2001 with today's safer products.

Knowing which products offer enhanced safety is important, and that’s where Budget Blinds’ 800 plus franchisees can be helpful.

“There are many window treatments that are either cord free by nature or can be ordered with either cordless lift options, or wand controls, or motorization to eliminate pull cords,” said Christman. “A local Budget Blinds style consultant can demonstrate the features of each product to homeowners so they can make an informed decision about their window coverings.”

Certain styles of window coverings, like shutters, draperies and motorized roller shades have no internal cords; whereas, the internal cords of cordless cellular shades, particularly those with smaller cells, are inaccessible to tiny fingers, making them a good choice for homes where small children are present.

“While nothing can replace the careful, watchful eye of a loving parent or guardian, there are things you can do to minimize hazards and enhance safety in your home,” said (Last Name).

In addition to choosing cordless window treatments, new parents want to pay attention to where they place furniture in the room. The Window Covering Safety Council recommends moving cribs and furniture away from window areas so that children aren’t tempted to play with window treatments.

If you are in a living situation where you cannot install cordless window treatments, be sure to also secure operation cords out of reach with cord tensioners and cord cleats.

Additional safety tips can be found at www.budgetblinds.com/safety and www.windowcoverings.org.

About BUDGET BLINDS, Inc. and Home Franchise Concepts

Based in Orange, California, Budget Blinds, Inc. was founded in 1992 and currently boasts over 800 franchise territories serving nearly 4,000 cities throughout the United States and Canada. In 2006, the founders of Budget Blinds, Inc. created Home Franchise Concepts to be the parent company to Budget Blinds and its sister concepts. As consumer demand for its quality, convenient services continues to grow, Budget Blinds is on its way to dominating the multi-billion dollar window covering market. Budget Blinds has been recognized as a leader in the franchise industry by organizations such as Entrepreneur, AllBusiness.com, Canadian Franchise Association, Franchise Times, Inc. and Franchise Business Review. For more information on Budget Blinds please visit www.budgetblinds.com or our press room at www.budgetblinds.com/pressroom or call 1-800-519-6298. You are also invited to like our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/BudgetBlinds and follow us on Twitter, @BudgetBlinds.

Budget Blinds Introduces New Woven Reed Blinds

name.nospam@nospam.example.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:08:00 -1400

New Product Offers Homeowners the Look of Woven Woods With Light and Privacy Control of Blinds

Enlightened Style™ Woven Reed Blinds with Cloth Tapes, exclusively from Budget Blinds.

Budget Blinds announced today that it will offer its new woven reed blind to homeowners and business owners.

“This stylish, new window covering offers the tropical appeal of woven wood, but the homeowner can raise and lower the blind or tilt the louvers to better control light and privacy,” said Tracy Christman, vice president of Budget Blinds vendor alliance.

The window covering looks like a traditional horizontal blind, but the louvers are unique. Each louver is comprised of woven, sustainable bamboo wrapped around an inner fabric liner. This construction filters light like a woven wood shade, but the liner enhances light and privacy control.

Traditional woven wood shades raise and lower like a Roman shade, or the homeowner could opt for a feature that allows them to raise the bottom of the shade or lower the top of the shade for added versatility. The woven reed blind operates like a traditional horizontal blind to offer enhanced privacy and light control to the user.

Budget Blinds added even more features to this blind to make it even more appealing to homeowners.

· Homeowners can choose from seven earthtone colors, including two duotone styles, which means there are colors that can coordinate with a variety of decors

· A modern trapezoidal bottom rail improves appearances and allows the blind to close more tightly for added light and privacy control.

· Louvers are 2 inches wide to offer a wider field of view, fewer louvers to clean, and fewer moving parts

· Motorization is available for enhanced convenience and safety.

· Woven bamboo is a sustainable, renewable resource, which makes this a great product for eco-conscious consumers.

The Enlightened Style™ Woven Reed blind is available exclusively through independently owned and operated Budget Blinds franchises.

About BUDGET BLINDS, Inc. and Home Franchise Concepts

Based in Orange, California, Budget Blinds, Inc. was founded in 1992 and currently boasts over 800 franchise territories serving nearly 4,000 cities throughout the United States and Canada. In 2006, the founders of Budget Blinds, Inc. created Home Franchise Concepts to be the parent company to Budget Blinds and its sister concepts. As consumer demand for its quality, convenient services continues to grow, Budget Blinds is on its way to dominating the multi-billion dollar window covering market. Budget Blinds has been recognized as a leader in the franchise industry by organizations such as Entrepreneur, AllBusiness, Inc. and Franchise Business Review. For more information on Budget Blinds please visit www.budgetblinds.com or www.budgetblinds.com/pressroom. or call 1-800-519-6298. Join us on facebook www.facebook.com/BudgetBlinds and follow us on Twitter @BudgetBlinds.

Woven Reed Louver Samples: Top to Bottom: Ebony, Ebony/Natural Duo-Tone, Pecan, Pecan/Natural Duo-Tone, Cherry, Amber, and Natural

REGISTER TODAY: Exclusive Preview of the Budget Blinds Franchise Opportunity on 9/20

name.nospam@nospam.example.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:41:00 -1400

Are you eager to escape the cubicle once and for all? Maybe you're interested in learning a bit more about franchising or perhaps you already have a few opportunities in mind. Here's your chance to learn more about the Budget Blinds Franchise Opportunity with Budget Blinds CEO, President and Co-Founder, Chad Hallock.

Registration is required, so take a moment to register for this online event a the link below.

DATE: September 20, 2011
Time: 1 p.m. ET/12 p.m. CT/11 a.m. MT/10 a.m. PT/9 a.m. Alaska/7 a.m. Hawaii.
Duration: 45 minutes

REGISTER: https://cc.readytalk.com/cc/schedule/display.do?udc=acxda7l54pi7

What you'll learn:
- See why nearly 1,000 business owners have chosen the Budget Blinds brand to help achieve their entrepreneurial dreams

- Learn why Budget Blinds has been the #1 Franchise in their category since 1996

- Get details about our unparalleled support and training programs

- See how Budget Blinds’ multi-million dollar advertising campaign generates thousands of customers for our franchisees every year

- Fall in love with the simplistic and proven business model Budget Blinds offers passionate and hard working individuals like you

Budget Blinds Welcomes Its Newest Franchisees

name.nospam@nospam.example.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 11:28:00 -1400

Budget Blinds Welcomes Its Newest Franchisees

March 2011


Robert & Deborah Dorsch
Troy, MI

Lorenzo Perez
Coral Springs, FL

Maggie & Hays & Gary Bernat
Bedford County, PA

Stephen & Michelle Davis
NE Columbia, SC

Tom & Holly Kloth
Elmhurst & Naperville, IL

April 2011

Tim Dennerll
Muskegon, MI

Krista Herbert
Worthington, OH

Gary & Carole Candy
Duncan, BC

Kathy & Jim Suttle
Franklin, TN

May 2011

Joe & Maripaul Parker
Hagerstown, WV

Paul Gibson & Misty White
Fredericton, BC

Susan & Hector Gomez
Frankfort, IL

Ruth & Rich Terray
West Hartford, CT

Colby & Jessica Black
The Sierra Foothills, CA

June 2011

Tracy & Dwayne Davis
Columbia, MO

Gray & Teresa Owen
Riverside, CA

Richard & Beverly Suel
St. Matthews, KY

Ron & Alice Van Nostrand
Burlington, NC

Roxana Rotaru
Tarpon Springs, FL

Diana Austin
North Dallas, TX

Brad & Sue Gerrish
Knoxville, North Knoxville, & Maryville, TN

Michelle Fullbright & Rusel McQuade
Buena Park/Seal Beach, CA

July 2011

Steven & Michele Glaza
East Mesa, AZ

Brandon & Jeanne Sheffield
Creve Coeur, MO

Mike & Julie Breckenridge
Abilene, TX

Carolyn Tricoli
Clearwater, FL

These franchisees will be opening for business in the next few months, so be on the lookout for the enthusiastic new small business owners in your neighborhood. Each Budget Blinds franchise is independently owned and operated. If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a Budget Blinds Franchisee call us at 1-800-519-6305.