Budget Blinds of South Bay

BUYER BEWARE of TOM AND VIVIAN OKU! We shopped around after our home was remodeled and we succumbed to the price tag – what a mistake. First there were delays with our installation – evidently when you buy cheap products from China, it takes an extra long time for them to arrive – even longer than promised – like 2 months from the original purchase so don’t be in a rush! Once installed, we had the casings start to fall apart – but nothing a little crazy glue from the vendors couldn’t fix. Then we had the misfortune of our bedroom shutter giving way when we closed it. This proved to be very annoying since the sun comes into the room and defeats the purpose of having a window covering. Upon contacting TOM and VIVIAN OKU the franchisee, we were told that someone would come out and take a look. Well, that was in August 2015, and here we are in March 2016. Even after the person whom they sent to see if the shutter could be repaired said that it needed to be replaced, there was attempt to order a new panel. So our product that has a lifetime guarantee, evidently cannot be replaced since, after 7 months of singing and dancing, VIVIAN admitted that she and TOM no longer work with Norman, the shutter manufacturer. Alas, we have reached the end of our tether and here is the best part – VIVIAN tells us that we can contact Norman – now that is service! She said that all that Budget Blinds does is measure and install. The product comes from China and that’s Norman! Well, that is interesting – they measure and install, but they don’t stand by the inferior products that they sell – WOW – is that really how it works? Funny, the court probably won’t see if that way. In reviewing past email conversations with TOM and VIVIAN, here is a direct quote from TOM: «Not only do you have a franchise covering your purchase but an industry leader in your shutters as well. Budget Blinds and Norman Shutters combined make your selection of shutters the best on the market.» Evidently that is the line that is used that probably worked for them in the past, but now that they don’t work with Norman anymore we are hosed – or in the words of VIVIAN – we are, and I quote: «in a unique situation!» Well, that’s one way to put it, this experience has been quite unique. And here is another special feature of transacting with TOM and VIVIAN – in addition to being BS artists, they show up at your home unannounced and leave their business card – like a calling card, as if to say – «Well, we tried to work with you!» Then, when you call them back, immediately, upon returning to your home and ask why they didn’t call your cell, they say that they called – LIES – so when you say that the only number that they called was the home number where they did NOT leave a vm (not too smart VIVIAN when your husband, TOM, is outside knocking on the front door – this is 2016 – try a cell phone – we have only left our cell numbers in just about every email that we have sent!) – she says, «in any event…» Yeah, that’s it, in any event… we will NEVER recommend your company and, will report this level of POOR SERVICE as far and wide as we can. Please don’t be fooled – TOM and VIVIAN are unresponsive, unhelpful, and unethical.

It is often said when people own their own business, they take extra special care in making sure everything is perfect. This is definitely true with Tom and Vivian. Vivian is outstanding on the telephone, is pleasant and warm, and makes a great first (and second and third, etc.) impression. Tom is conscientious about everything, from taking precise measurements, discussing the many choices, and in making sure each set of blinds is mounted and sits the way it should, as well as opens and closes correctly. When he noticed one set was not closing all the way, he was immediately ready to place a replacement order, but a minor adjustment was all it needed. Tom possesses a wonderful balance of being very easy to talk to with his relaxed congenial personality, while also demonstrating his admirable professionalism with his constant attention to every detail of the project. His assistant, Ricky, is an asset to the business, too. He is hardworking, friendly, and well-​mannered. I strongly recommend Tom’s and Vivian’s Budget Blinds of South Bay to anyone!

Fantastic shades and blinds. Service was impeccable, consultation a breeze. Loved Tom, Vivian and Efrin. I would recommend them to everyone. Good job, good price. Best of all, you kept me informed — even when my shutters were stuck in transit through no fault of your own. Now that is truly service. Will definitely use Budget Blinds of South Bay again.