Best Coast Lights is a Whistler-owned outdoor lighting installation company currently operating in Squamish and Whistler, BC. They specialize in installing lights for personal residences and businesses for the holiday season, as well as weddings, corporate events, and any other special occasion that would benefit from high quality, professional grade LED lights.
We interviewed founder Alex Gorham about his business story, his challenges, and how Community Futures has been able to help.
What is your business story?
We are in our tenth year of business, and it is my fifth year owning Best Coast Lights. I was an employee for a year before I took over the business. With the assistance of Community Futures, we have probably doubled in size since purchasing the company.
I’m currently managing about 16 employees, and I’m one of 3 originally. So we are definitely a lot bigger and a lot busier now.
Our business is heavily focused on the holiday season; however, we have great relationships with several large commercial clients that sustain us all year round.
What has been one of your greatest successes to date?
A real milestone was being able to pay our employees a living wage, and build a work environment that takes care of the people who work here. Being able to do that feels really great.
What has been your biggest challenge?
One challenge is that we are largely a seasonal company. We just have to build up to that big holiday moment in December. We start installing in August, all the way up until Christmas Eve, 7 days a week. So managing the work and the scheduling can be tricky.
As someone with a business in the Sea to Sky, how has Community Futures Howe Sound helped you?
The team at Community Futures Howe Sound has been amazing. When I first called, we just chatted about the Sea to Sky economy for an hour. They offered really sound advice and gave me the confidence to push forward.
They also provided us with a loan to help with expansion when I took over the company. We are a service based business, so it was a pretty painless experience. I always recommend Community Futures to people.
What is a project you’re working on right now?
Over the next year, we plan to expand our base of operations to Vancouver. We already have some key contracts in the Vancouver area, and having a satellite operation there will allow us to expand even further.
What have you learned from running your own business?
I’ve really learned the value of a team. It’s important to recognize that in this business, none of it would be possible without the team who is helping make it happen. So I always try to get the best out of people and also show them my appreciation.
What do you do when the holiday season is over?
Definitely relax for a little bit! Then it’s time to get started all over again.
What are your favourite things to do when you’re not working?
I love skiing, climbing and taking pictures. The best moments for me are when I’m in the mountains with family and friends.
For more information about Best Coast Light’s services, please visit their website at www.bestcoastlights.com
Loans and free business advice from Community Futures Howe Sound
Community Futures Howe Sound is a non-profit working to support businesses in the Sea to Sky Corridor, whether you're a start-up or a long-term business owner looking to expand.
We offer character-based business loans, as well as free one-on-one business advice. Contact us here to learn more.
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