The City of Coquitlam Retail Award

Deneen Tizya and her husband Mark started Heritage Shade and Shutter in November 2003.
The company sells and installs customized fixed and retractable shutters and awnings for security or weather protection. After completing the Self Employment Program, Deneen and her husband secured financing, rented space in North Vancouver and began advertising. Frustrated by the 4 to 6 week delivery time from existing suppliers, the company has recently expanded into manufacturing. In September 2005, a manufacturing facility was opened in Richmond and has enabled Heritage Shade and Shutter to cut delivery time down to 2 weeks. In addition to the owners, the company currently has 2 full-time and 2 part-time employees.Deneen talked about the importance of having a mentor and in treating people well and how that translates into increased business. She also told attendees that having a positive attitude in life is critical if you want to succeed.