A home is more than just four walls and a roof. It’s a sanctuary—a place where we find comfort, security, and a reflection of our personal style. For Kari and Nick Schaneman, owners of Bumble Bee Blinds, the journey to helping homeowners craft these intimate spaces started with an unexpected turn in life. In May of 2023, Nick was laid off from his long-time career in energy, a shift that propelled him toward the dream of owning his own business. With Kari stepping in to manage day-to-day operations, the couple took a leap of faith, launching Bumble Bee Blinds with a commitment to quality, integrity, and community.
More Than Just Window Coverings
At first glance, window coverings might seem like a simple aesthetic choice, but they play a much bigger role in shaping the atmosphere of a home. Bumble Bee Blinds creates spaces that feel safe, warm, and uniquely personal. With an interior designer on staff, they help homeowners select treatments that blend function and style, ensuring each space reflects the homeowner’s vision. Their selection includes energy-efficient shades for budget-conscious customers, artisan fabrics to elevate ambiance, and eco-friendly materials that make a statement while supporting sustainability.
“When we started the business, one of the first tasks was developing our core values,” Kari says. “Do what you say, do the right thing, choose your mood (and make it a good one), and always work to positively impact the community and those around you.” Initially, Kari wasn’t sure how selling blinds could positively impact the community. But looking back, she realized just how much they had contributed. “I realize we really have made a difference,” she reflects. From training future designers through CSU’s Interior Design Program to supporting other businesses through referrals, their impact reaches far beyond window treatments.
Juggling Business and Family Life
Running a business while raising three young children has its challenges. “Some days I want to quit. Starting a business is hard, especially with limited experience. My husband is an eternal optimist. He helps to drive us forward and see all the good things we have done,” Kari vulnerably shares. Their kids love coming to the warehouse, seeing firsthand the success their parents are building, and being a part of something that is truly family focused.
Regardless of the challenges, Bumble Bee Blinds continues to thrive. In their first two years of business, they covered nearly 2,500 windows and were honored as Best of NOCO for the past two years. Their dedication to quality ensures that every customer receives top-notch window treatments that last. As Kari puts it, “We stand behind our work and our products to make sure you have an experience that is as sweet as honey. We also love bee puns,” which is apparent from the moment you speak with Kari or step in the Bumble Bee Blinds office and warehouse.
A Business Rooted in Community
Bumble Bee Blinds isn’t just about beautifying homes—it’s about giving back. They actively participate in the local Chambers of Commerce and community events, strengthening their connection to the residents of Northern Colorado. They have donated time and resources to charitable initiatives, including a golf tournament supporting Stillwater Ranch benefitting veterans and their loved ones. Their involvement with Habitat for Humanity is another testament to their commitment, as they participated in a Women’s Build Day and provided window treatments for the new homeowner when she moved in early last year.
Beyond their charitable efforts, Kari and Nick believe in fostering a supportive business community. They work closely with other small business owners, building relationships that go beyond transactions. Their referrals help fellow businesses thrive, and they take pride in knowing that their work contributes to the overall success of the local economy.
Turning a House into a Home
Window treatments aren’t just functional; they set the mood of a home. Soft draperies create a cozy, romantic ambiance, natural materials make a bold statement while being eco-friendly, and shutters offer timeless elegance that can increase a home’s value. Whether a homeowner is looking for energy-efficient solutions or custom designs, Bumble Bee Blinds offers options that enhance comfort, privacy, and style.
Kari jokes that she now notices window treatments everywhere—at friends’ houses, restaurants, even in movies and TV shows. Once you’re fully immersed in the world of blinds, there’s no going back. And while she and Nick love bringing style and function to homes, they also find humor in the little things, keeping their journey lighthearted amid the hard work.
A Family-Focused Future
Despite belonging to a national franchise under HorsePower Brands, Kari and Nick have made Bumble Bee Blinds their own. With three other franchise locations in Colorado, they have built strong relationships with fellow owners, exchanging support and ideas daily. Yet, at its core, their business remains deeply personal.
Their team is an extension of their family. When designer Jessica welcomes her second child in April, Kari looks forward to babysitting—allowing Jessica to continue creating beautiful solutions for residential and commercial spaces. For them, family life and business life flow together naturally, reflecting their core belief that success should never come at the expense of personal connection.
The Bumble Bee Promise
At the end of the day, their mission is simple: to make the process of transforming a space as easy—and sweet—as honey. From the initial consultation to installation, they bring professionalism, passion, and, of course, plenty of bee puns. Every product is backed by limited lifetime warranties, ensuring that homeowners not only receive top-notch window treatments but also peace of mind.
Bumble Bee Blinds isn’t just selling blinds; they’re creating spaces that feel like home. And thanks to their unwavering dedication, their customers can rest easy knowing they’re in good hands.
Bumble Bee Blinds | 970-585-5033
“We truly care about our customers. If a customer is going to have a problem, we want them to have that problem with us because we will make it right.”