My journey with My Blind Spot began in 2001 when my Aunt Doris, also affectionately known as “the blind lady”, asked me to come work for her as the Store Manager, with the ultimate goal of taking over the business someday. At the time, I was working in Real Estate, after some consideration I made the decision to leave in order to learn about all things window coverings, fabric, wallpaper, and operations. Through the years, Doris was an amazing leader and mentor, I repeatedly saw her build relationships by always treating clients fairly and doing what was right for them, not just focusing on getting the sale. I believe that is the reason that to this day, our clients come back when they need parts, repairs, or something new. They are also quick to refer family members – parents, siblings, children, and their children’s children, as well as neighbors, friends, and co-workers. The people we served then and still serve to this day, have become an extension of our family.
In 2011, I gave birth to my son. I was so fortunate to have had the opportunity to bring him to work with me, Doris was adamant that he come. He quickly became the official shop baby and welcoming committee. At that time, I was doing outside window covering and design sales and Doris was focusing on shutter, blind and shade sales. We alternated being in the store to accommodate having James there. When he began walking in 2012, we knew we would have to make other arrangements. I made the hard decision to focus my attentions at home and took a leave of absence. In the fall of 2017, Doris began to think about retirement. We discussed it and began setting plans in motion for me to take over. By February 2018, I was back in the shop becoming reacquainted with the products and in April I became the new owner.
Retirement was a difficult decision for Doris as she hated to leave the people she had developed bonds and relationships with. A day doesn’t go by where someone asks for or about Doris, I let them know she is officially and happily retired. These days she spends time traveling and boating with her husband, who is also retired, as well as quilting and sewing for fun.
Over the past few years, only a few things have changed. The most noticeable change was in 2019 when My Blind Spot became Mobile! I no longer had a need for a storefront. As has always been, I worked with clients in their residential or commercial setting and brought samples there, not needing a brick and mortar location. I still serve the Southside and Peninsula including Smithfield and Suffolk, as well as Northeastern North Carolina and the Eastern Shore.
What has not changed is my commitment to excellence by serving clients well, building relationships and doing what is right, always!
