KBF’s principals, Ashley Sheaffer and Adam Vellequette, were recently interviewed by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) for their first “Member Spotlight” feature!
Get to know the dynamic brother-sister duo behind KBF Design Gallery in Maitland, FL.
What are your top three reasons for joining NARI?
Ashley: I believe the most valuable lesson we’ve learned as business owners is to tap into the resources and knowledge surrounding you.
Joining a national firm of remodeling experts allows us to roundtable with a network of professionals. These are people who would otherwise be considered “competitors” in our local market.
While we’ve grown up in this industry, being at the helm is a new experience. We’re grateful for insights from other professionals specific to our field.
Adam: My top reasons were first and foremost for NARI’s reputation and the recognition it brings our firm. I was also interested in networking with fellow members and utilizing NARI’s certification and educational courses.
What do you love most about the remodeling industry?
Ashley: The challenge! There’s something rewarding about solving the puzzle for a homeowner. Clients often approach us with a complex wish list and rely on us to think outside the box.
For example, more clients now request a private office without losing bedrooms or dining space. In remodeling, you face the constraints of the existing structure and a budget. I love reimagining that space and making the solution come to life.
Adam: My love for the industry stems from my love for creativity. Each home presents a unique set of circumstances to overcome to realize the perfect space for a client’s specific needs. Whether in the design phase or construction, there is always an opportunity to get creative.
Who inspires you?
Ashley: Our parents. Our Dad started this business years ago, and I’ll forever be in awe of him as an entrepreneur. While we admire our parents for many qualities in our personal lives, I am deeply inspired by the professional vision it took to get us here.
He identified the need for a turnkey remodeler in Central Florida and built a beautiful showroom from scratch. He invented the framework of processes we still use today. They’ve taught us that hard work and faith can carry you through anything.
Adam: I am inspired by the team I have around me. I am amazed at what they have accomplished together and inspired by their potential.
What have you learned in the last month?
Ashley: As a ‘right-brain’ dominant person, I’m constantly learning the importance of systems. I’m fortunate to have a business partner who loves implementing them. While I sometimes view them with a bit of disparagement, I’m quickly reminded of how vital they are.
Adam: I’ve realized the immense potential for technology in our industry. 2020 taught us the value of a business’s ability to function outside of its physical location.
What’s your favorite part of the job?
Ashley: Working with our team. I get to work with my brother every day and watch him grow as a leader.
I also love watching our guys in the field grow in their talents. We have such confidence in our installers, knowing they’ll “do it right” at all costs. I love watching our showroom talent flourish as we align their roles with their specific skillsets.
Adam: What motivates me every day is the thought that something can always be made better. Whether it is an entirely new system or an incremental improvement to an SOP, I get excited at the idea of being better tomorrow than we are today.
If you had to eat one meal every day forever, what would it be?
Ashley: Pizza. No question about it.
Adam: Anyone who knows me knows I am the sandwich king. If I had to eat them in perpetuity, I might add a side salad, but nothing beats a good sandwich.
