Home-Improvement Franchise Complements Wallaby Windows Business
As an Outdoor Lighting Perspectives franchisee, Ashley Selzer works in a man’s world. But she’s no fish out of water. “I have two sons, four older brothers, a degree in soil science and a previous career in orthopedics and sports medicine. I’ve always been surrounded by male-dominated rooms, and it doesn’t bother me much. Knowing many amazing men, I believe most of what makes me a successful business owner isn’t necessarily about me being female. Instead, it’s about choosing some less-common business practices that center around the customer experience and always striving to do our best for our customers and community.”
She and her husband, Ryan Selzer (together above), previously operated a small chain of West Coast furniture stores that they started after college. They sold the chain and moved to North Carolina a few years ago. “We wanted to raise our family here, and a home-improvement franchise was a great fit for our previous business experience.” Three years ago, the couple opened a replacement window and door franchise, Wallaby Windows. The opportunity to purchase OLP Raleigh, an outdoor lighting company that specializes in customized installation for commercial and residential properties, came about a year ago.
“After research and training, we’ve run it for more than six months.” Both franchises are part of Empower Brands, whose portfolio also includes Archadeck Outdoor Living, Bumble Roofing, Canopy Lawn Care, Conserva Irrigation, FRSTeam, JAN-PRO, Koala Insulation and Superior Fence & Rail franchises.
OLP Raleigh was well-established, Ashley says, serving most of central North Carolina for nearly 30 years. “We purchased two-thirds of the territory six months ago, and the previous owner relocated to the southernmost part of his territory. We have plenty of territory to keep us busy.”
OLP aligns well with the Wallaby Windows franchise, she says. “They both prioritize customer experience, providing top-quality products and installations, and always leading with a low-pressure, educational approach. I love helping our customers beautify their homes inside and out, day and night.”
Ashley also enjoys that every workday is different, “always with a new challenge around the corner so I’m always learning and growing.” She handles most of the franchise’s business development, meeting with professionals, local business owners and industry leaders to find the best ways for OLP to serve the community. “I also oversee our marketing department, operations teams and business strategy. As a member of the local chambers, the Home Builders Association, Raleigh Regional Association of Realtors Women’s Council and many other networking groups, there’s always something interesting to get involved with.”
Managing Operations
At present, the Selzers also keep busy with expanding their teams to provide the service quality their customers expect, she says. “We have a lot on our plates learning how to merge and adapt our two businesses together, sharing resources and leading both teams through their unique challenges.”
Ryan and their teams plus the entire OLP organization have been very supportive during those challenges. “OLP as a franchisor has provided important resources for my success by connecting me with other franchisees so we can grow together,” Ashley says. “OLP franchisees are an incredible resource because they’ve been in the industry for decades. They’re eager to help us and to encourage us along the way. I’ve been very impressed by OLP’s culture.”
Ashley balances franchise operations with involved parenting. “My husband and three kids are a huge part of my motivation in growing our businesses. I love to watch my boys swim and my daughter as she navigates various sports to find which ones interest her most. The kids are a part of our business journey, and hopefully we are building something they’ll want to be a part of as they grow up. But if not, at least they’re learning what it looks like to take risks and believe in yourself!”
Learn more about the OLP franchise opportunity.
