Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jake Leavitt. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jake, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?
Certainly! Let me paint you a picture of my journey from idea to execution.
It all began with a spark of inspiration during a conversation with my friend on his couch, who shared a passion for entrepreneurship and also happened to be an in a similar space as a photographer/ artist. As we continued to talk, we recognized a gap in the market for professional installation services that provided top-notch technical expertise and prioritized customer satisfaction, delivered unmatched museum-quality results, and setting a new standard in precision and excellence.
The following days after that conversation buzzed with excitement and intense brainstorming sessions. I immersed myself in market research, methodically identifying potential competitors and honing in on the distinctive value proposition we could bring to the table. Hours were dedicated to exploring the array of services I could offer, strategizing on how to carve out our niche in a bustling industry landscape (but lacked what I knew I could create).
Over the following weeks, I immersed myself in the intricacies of the venture. Through extensive market analysis and strategic brainstorming sessions, I identified the key factors that would distinguish us from the competition. It became evident that to truly stand out, I had to prioritize not only technical excellence but also place a strong emphasis on delivering exceptional customer service and ensuring flawless installation experiences. This holistic approach was instrumental in carving out our unique identity within a competitive landscape, positioning us as industry leaders dedicated to delivering unparalleled quality, service, and seamlessly executed installations.
Crafting our brand identity was a meticulous process, involving careful attention to every detail. From designing my logo to creating our website, we aimed to reflect our professionalism and expertise in every aspect. Each element was thoughtfully chosen to evoke feelings of trust and reliability while also showcasing our commitment to innovation. Our logo became the visual embodiment of our brand; while our website served as the digital storefront for our business, providing visitors with a seamless and intuitive experience that reinforced our dedication to excellence. Together, these elements formed the foundation of our identity, leaving a lasting impression on my audience and setting us apart as industry leaders.
I meticulously outlined my business processes to ensure readiness for any installation challenge. This involved developing detailed procedures and investing in top-of-the-line equipment. My focus extended beyond just technical aspects; I optimized efficiency across the board, from providing transparent quotes and clear communication before installations to maintaining professionalism throughout the process and ensuring thorough follow-up afterward.
After seven weeks of hard work and anticipation following that initial conversation on my friend’s couch, I officially launched Bello Luxury & Fine Art Installation with a profound sense of pride and excitement. From that pivotal moment onward, every installation was devoted to delivering nothing short of exceptional service to our clients. My singular focus was on building a reputation as the premier installation experts, and I embarked on this journey with relentless dedication and great pride in my work.
Reflecting on the past year, the journey from idea to execution presented challenges and triumphs. Yet, every hurdle was worth it to witness my vision materialize into reality. As we look ahead, the adventure persists as we remain committed to innovation, growth, and surpassing the expectations of our esteemed customers each day. The road ahead is filled with endless possibilities!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Absolutely. My name is Jake Leavitt, and my journey begins with my educational background. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science with a minor in Business from Adrian College, followed by a Master’s degree in Business Leadership from William Penn University. Following my education, I dedicated nearly a decade to serving as a Strength and Conditioning Coach, working closely with athletes to enhance their performance. However, in 2019, I made the decision to embark on a new path, transitioning into a different industry.
While I initially didn’t have a clear idea of where it would lead me, I started working for an art installation and moving & storage company. It was during this time that I discovered my natural talent and genuine passion for the hanging aspect of the job. I quickly learned the ropes of the industry and found myself consistently taking notes. I observed what worked well and needed to be continued, identified areas where there was a void and something needed to be initiated, and recognized practices that were being done but weren’t beneficial.
Fast forward to 2024, and I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with many of the top interior designers in the Dallas market. Numerous of these esteemed designers I work with have been prominently featured in renowned publications such as Luxe Interior + Design, Veranda, Architectural Digest, and PaperCity.
I specialize in delivering and installing anything that hangs (excluding hardwired electrical installations). This encompasses a wide range of items, from luxury fine art to cherished family portraits and even the precious picture brought home by your third-grader for Mother’s Day. Additionally, I offer services such as mounting TVs, hanging drapery, mirrors, and animal mounts. If it’s meant to hang on a wall, chances are I’ve hung it before or can expertly handle the installation. In addition to my expertise in traditional picture hanging, I am also highly skilled in installing unique 3-dimensional art pieces, such as Porsche hoods and Ferrari deck lids. Furthermore, I have experience with installing items like skateboards and delicate wall decor, ensuring that every installation is completed with precision and care. Whether it’s high-end fine art or a delicate piece of wall art, I have the knowledge and expertise to handle it with the utmost professionalism.
Absolutely, art installation involves much more than simply hammering two nails into the wall. It’s a meticulous process that requires attention to numerous details. Some key questions I consider include:
• Which room will be the best fit for the piece?
• Is the color and subject matter cohesive with the room’s decor?
• Is the piece the appropriate scale for the space?
• How is the lighting in the chosen location?
• Will there be any furniture positioned underneath the artwork?
• What measures can be taken to preserve existing wallpaper or wall treatments?
• Are there any structural considerations needed to support the piece securely?
• Are there plans to add additional pieces and create a collage or gallery wall?
By carefully addressing these factors and more, I ensure that each art installation is not only visually stunning but also harmoniously integrated into its surroundings, creating captivating space.
Bello stands out in several distinct ways:
• We provide upfront and transparent pricing, ensuring that you know the exact cost prior to installation, provided all details are correct.
• Our pricing is based on the number of pieces, not on time spent. Whether you have one piece or a hundred and twenty, there are no minimums.
• We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If your preferences change after living with your new art, we will adjust the height without any additional holes in the wall, no questions asked and free of charge.
• We are comprehensively insured for all aspects of delivery and installation, providing you with peace of mind in case anything does not go as planned.
While these factors are undoubtedly important, what truly sets myself and Bello apart is my unwavering commitment to meticulous attention-to-detail. I pride myself on ensuring that every installation is executed with precision and care, leaving no room for error. I am dedicated to providing seamless and stress-free installations for my clients, ensuring that the entire process is smooth and hassle-free from quote to completed install. It’s this combination of meticulousness and a focus on customer satisfaction that truly distinguishes Bello in the art installation industry.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been rooted in a commitment to excellence and a relentless pursuit of perfection in every project I undertake. By consistently delivering exceptional results, I not only meet but exceed the expectations of my clients, leaving them not just satisfied but genuinely impressed. This dedication to excellence has proven to be a catalyst for word-of-mouth referrals, as satisfied clients are inspired to share their positive experiences with others. Many of my new clients come to me through referrals from former clients who have been delighted with the quality of my workmanship and the level of service I provide. Additionally, interior designers who have collaborated with me in the past often recommend my services to their clients, further expanding my reach within the market. I am deeply grateful for the trust and support of my clients and colleagues, as their recommendations have been invaluable in spreading the word about Bello and establishing my reputation as a trusted professional in the industry. Their unwavering endorsement serves as a testament to the quality of my work and reinforces my commitment to delivering excellence in every aspect of my business.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
I firmly believe that my commitment to excellence and unwavering dedication to providing exceptional service have played a pivotal role in building my reputation within the market. Time and again, I’ve strived to deliver nothing short of the highest quality workmanship, surpassing the expectations of every client I serve. This relentless pursuit of excellence has not only earned the trust and respect of my clients but has also garnered recognition from industry professionals. It’s through the consistent delivery of outstanding results and a steadfast commitment to client satisfaction that I’ve been able to establish Bello as a trusted name in the market. However, it’s not solely about the work itself; it’s also about the values that underpin every aspect of my business. Integrity, transparency, and a genuine passion for what I do are at the core of everything I undertake. These values guide my interactions with clients and other professionals, forming the foundation upon which my reputation has been built.
Contact Info:
- Website: belloinstallation.com
- Instagram: @belloinstallation
Image Credits
Strictly Natural Light