Beverly Roberts

Unique but typically American is the entrepreneurial story of Window Crowns® by Beverly, Inc.

In the late 1970s, Beverly Roberts needed a cornice board to complete a window for her two sons' room. After two days in the garage with lumber, saw, hammer, nails, and finally a blue thumb, it as apparent that she was not meant to be a carpenter. The boys' window never got a cornice, but Beverly was sure there had to be an easier way. So she created one.

For several years, she did nothing about her concept, thinking that a big company would develop her simple idea without her input. In June 1988, after the collapse of a business association, she made a personal commitment to develop her cornice board concept.

Months of design, research, and testing followed. "It really amazed me," Beverly says, "how much time and effort was required to perfect a simple product." She also applied for a patent. "I was ecstatic when the patent was granted," she says, " but surprised that less than two percent of patents held in this country are held by women."

In 1989 she incorporated Window Crowns® by Beverly. Beverly is very proud of the positive response to her cornice board kit, from both consumers and large national companies. Plaid markets the Cornice Board Kit designed by Beverly. Beverly enjoy running her own company, "I love the absolute freedom to create and implement new ideas and products," she says. And the lack of a mundane daily routine allows her to be creative!

Overall, the key to success in the home decor industry, says Beverly, is "Create fresh, new products and ideas don't rework the old ones. Be a leader in design - not a follower."