In response to the question, “Why LiveWest?”, Sue McKey of The Shade Shop, Inc. shared her thoughts on the Westside, our historic business districts and why you should LiveWest!
We have a historic venue in the city of Grand Rapids, full of “mature” businesses and opportunities for the eclectic retail shopping encounter. Development has been slowed by the economy but the loyalty of the businesses and neighborhoods is strong and determined to build, grow, and serve the visitors that venture into our friendly and welcoming district. We are wise businesses that realize the importance of great service and customer satisfaction over just “getting a sale”. We may be an “older” neighborhood but we maintain the “old” values of building relationships with our clients and ensuring a pleasurable shopping experience.- Sue McKey
For more information on The Shade Shop and the McKey Family, read their brief history below.
Would you like to add your voice to the LiveWest conversation? Let us know what you think and we will post your perspective on things like:
- What is your business “known for”?
- How long have you been operating on the Westside?
- For those who don’t know much about the Westside, what do you think are our assets?
Email us – info@welcomewest.org
THE SHADE SHOP, INC. has been a part of the Grand Rapids’ business area since 1935. Our family-owned business began with Arnold McKey and remains owned an operated by the McKey family to this date.
The business began in a boat house on the banks of the Grand River in the 1930′s as a shade repair and cleaning establishment. It shortly thereafter moved to 343 Leonard Street and started manufacturing window shades. We took the name of The Shade Shop. In 1962, after several moves along Leonard Street, we located to the Ritzema Building, a historic 1910 building located at 422 Leonard on the west side where it remains to this date.
Our window shade business still remains a very important part of our service today. Our products have expanded over the years to include all window treatments, including draperies, offering a better range of choices for our customer.
We firmly believe that it is the fine reputation of friendly service and respect which we provide each and every customer and their guaranteed satisfaction that has helped our business remain successful and strong these many years.
Our underlying philosophy is customer respect and to provide creative choices at affordable prices. Our corporation, under the present third generation leadership of Barry and Susan McKey, has become the first and only Hunter Douglas Window Fashions Gallery in the Grand Rapids area. We are able to provide exclusive promotions and product satisfaction guarantees to the customer only found at Gallery Dealers.
The Shade Shop remains committed to growth which will enhance the position and respect the customer and community has come to trust for over 75 years!
Susan McKey
The Shade Shop, Inc.
422 Leonard St. NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
616-459-4693
www.theshadeshop.hdwfg.com
www.theshadeshop.blogspot.com
