How
to choose a
consultant.
Insuring the highest level of complete
satisfaction
with your custom window treatments requires some preliminary planning
and
research.
Once you have determined your primary needs,
you
will need to find a reputable consultant that can show you top-quality
samples
along with previous projects (including references) and has the
experience,
equipment and know how to fulfill your requirements. The best consultant will: ask a lot of
questions; listen to your needs; be able to thoroughly communicate an
effective
proposal that will accomplish your goals.
Choosing a consultant allows for accurate measurements, better color choices, and design decisions.
To help in the communication process and give
my
clients the best possible options, I use a computer design program to
create a
detailed layout of what the finished product will look like including
alternative
options and pricing. I can take a photo of
your room and super-impose designs on it to give you a very realistic
view of
proportion, dimension, and colors.
Once you have made your choices and are ready
to
place your order, know that it is common for the consultant to collect
a
deposit. The deposit required for my
services is 75% of the total. The balance is due upon delivery. CUSTOM orders mean that the product is cut to
specific measurements and will not necessarily fit another window,
therefore,
once the order is placed it is not possible to cancel the order or
return the
merchandise.
Set
an estimated budget for your window coverings. On
the average, you can expect custom window
coverings to run about $250-$350 per running foot.
That is not to say that there are products
and treatments for less or for more.
Be
frank with your consultant regarding your
budget. An exact figure is not
necessary, but a budgeted range is very helpful. We
all want the most for our dollar. Your
consultant can help you achieve the BEST
VALUE. Be realistic. Custom
treatments are more expensive up front
than ready-made treatments, but a well designed window treatment can
prevent
mistakes and will give you many years of lasting beauty, service,
function, and
value.
Custom treatments are made to last 10-15
years. When you prorate the cost, you
will find a top-quality product that gives you years of enjoyment will
be a
much better value than a poor-quality, low-cost alternative with a much
shorter
useful lifespan.
The
product mix for the window covering industry
is fantastic. There are all kinds of
absolutely beautiful fabrics and hardware for draperies and top
treatments.