Miranda Pederson/Daily NewsAngie and Norman Ferguson owns and operates Windowology, a shop at home window covering company.

Each week, the Daily News profiles a locally owned business.

Name of business: Windowology, Blinds, Shades, Shutters & More

Location: Shop at home business

Type of business: Window treatments

When did it open? January 2000

Owner: Norman and Angie Ferguson

Number of employees: Two

Specialties: Blinds, shades and shutters

How did the business get started?

I had always been in sales and loved working with people on a daily basis. When I heard of (this type of business) in other states, I knew this was meant for us. Being self employed, working with wonderful people and enjoying what I do, who could ask for more?

What is your background?

I was a sales manager for Schwan’s for 17 years. We have two children and stay active in our community through the Builder’s Association and Realtor’s Association of Bowling Green. We love to volunteer and give back to our community. We enjoy quarter horses, dogs, cats, baseball, basketball, tennis and football games with our children.

What are your biggest challenges as a business?

We want everyone to know that shop-at-home window treatments are less expensive and better quality than home improvement stores. We give free estimates and installation. Most home improvement stores charge separately for each service. We will beat all competitors’ prices.

What’s your business philosophy?

I want every customer to be more satisfied; I want them to be glad they choose Windowology. We have installed treatments in more than 4,000 homes just in Bowling Green. Ninety-five percent of our customers come from referrals of other customers. If they refer us to their friends and family, that lets me know they were pleased. We will do everything that we can to make and keep them happy.

What issues are affecting your industry?

We do window treatments for commercial, new construction and remodeling homes; therefore, business is always steady. The times have changed for window treatments. New products are always coming out, and they are gorgeous.

What are the factors that make your business successful?

We strive for 100 percent customer satisfaction. I am grateful to all the builders, Realtors, interior designers and our customers for their support, friendship and referrals. Word-of-mouth is the best type of advertising. This is truly what makes a business successful.

How do you handle competition?

Being a shop-at-home company, we have a low overhead. We work without supplies to keep product cost low for our clients and pass the savings onto you. Having competition is good; it makes you work that much harder.

What is your advice to someone thinking about opening a business?

I would have to say work hard, say what you mean and do what you say. Follow the Golden Rule.