From Our Family to Your Business

When I started this business in 1976, I was 25 years old with three young children and a determination to build something meaningful for my family. From the very beginning, my philosophy was simple: the customer must always leave 100% satisfied and glad they chose us.

To me, running a business was never about hiding behind a team of employees or layers of management. I believed that the owner should be present, accountable, and personally invested. I answered the phone, attended the walkthroughs, met with customers face-to-face, and addressed problems immediately when they arose. If something wasn’t right, I didn’t hesitate to get in my car, put on a pair of gloves, and take care of it myself.

Today, it’s rare to speak directly with the owner of a company. More often, customers are routed through sales representatives and managers before ever reaching someone who truly has the authority to help. I always took pride in doing things differently, and that commitment to accessibility and accountability remains a core value of our company today.

When a customer was unhappy, it genuinely bothered me - not because of the complaint itself, but because I cared deeply about the partnership we had built. This business was more than a job; it was how I provided for my family, and that responsibility meant everything to me.

One phrase I often shared with my team was: “You have to make more deposits than withdrawals with people.” In other words, relationships are built on trust, consistency, and showing up when it matters most.

That philosophy continues to guide our company today. What began as a small business supporting my family has grown into something much larger - but the heart behind it remains the same.

Cheri Kurl (TVJ Founder & Active Consultant)