While Nevada Shutters & Blinds may be in the hands of new owners, the veteran premium window installation company comprises a team no stranger to Las Vegas–or each other.
Nicole Hughes, Oscar Mendez Jr. and Kelly S. Jackson have a shared history together that began with friendship 15 years ago. They come from different professional backgrounds in human resources, real estate and sales, but their commitment to growing a loyal company for the community that has eagerly embraced them is making their bond even stronger.
The timing couldn’t have been better, as Kelly reflects on their collective journey. “Nicole and Oscar had been looking for an opportunity in the home service and design industry when they found Nevada Shutters & Blinds,” she says. They extended an invitation to Kelly to join them with her experience as a former business owner who handled marketing and operations.
All three have heard the warnings not to go into business with friends, but their confidence and belief in the relationship they have built is too strong to ignore. “We know each other’s strengths, we can have difficult conversations when necessary,” all of which Kelly says carries a level of respect “into the way we run the company.”
The career shifts have presented challenges, such as the lengthy process of acquisition and securing funding, but there is plenty more to be grateful for thus far.
One of the biggest advantages? “There is already a level of trust and communication between us that would normally take years to develop in a new business partnership,” says Kelly. During the high stress times when things can get complicated taking over a business, it’s their solid foundation that keeps them grounded.
For example, their differences are where they shine best together. “Nicole is the steady, patient one, and, as Oscar and I joke, probably going to be everyone’s favorite person in the room. I am the creative one who is usually trying to make everyone laugh, and Oscar is the salesman who could probably sell just about anything.”
But more than anything, it’s trust that has gotten them this far in friendship and now an exciting business partnership. “For us, the question is simple: Can you trust the people you are going into business with when you walk out of the room?” Their answer is a resounding yes.
Nicole, Oscar and Kelly also believe this same trust will be reciprocated by the community that has given them so much and for whom they are honored to serve with the best lighting and shading options through Nevada Shutters & Blinds.
“None of us wanted to come in and erase what had already been built,” Kelly emphasizes. “Our goal is to preserve the reputation and customer relationships established by former owner, Rick, while bringing our own strengths and ideas to the company.”
Rick has assisted them with the transition, ensuring that they are set up to provide the same professional service while having the room to usher Nevada Shutters & Blinds into a new era.
“Indoor shutters, blinds and shades remain at the heart of the business, while we are expanding the company’s focus to include motorized indoor and outdoor shade solutions, smart automation and permanent outdoor lighting,” says Kelly. These additions will showcase the wide range of what can be done to windows beyond covering them.
The team is also excited to continue to offer complimentary in-home design consultations. “[This allows us] to recommend products while seeing the home’s architecture, lighting and design firsthand.”
As they work on naturally expanding the company and with plans to give back locally, Nicole, Oscar and Kelly are keeping the faith in a company they love, the community who has believed in them and always in each other.
“I’ve joked that the ultimate test is whether these are the people you would take into battle with you,” Kelly shares. The unanimous verdict after 15 years of friendship? “Absolutely.”
"For us, the question is simple: Can you trust the people you are going into business with?"