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In 1963, Wes and Sara Atkin moved to Washington County from Glendale, Ariz., to start a ranch. Wes wanted to come back to Utah to try ranching, but it didn't prove to be successful. Two years later Sara found herself working in a laundromat. One day, a customer asked if she knew anyone who could make drapes. Sara quickly replied that she could do it. The "I can do it" attitude is a family characteristic that transitioned Sara's first drapery-making job into the successful Atkin Draperies.
Sara had knowledge and experience in fabrics, textures, color and construction that easily transferred from fashion to window treatments, and she delivered her first window treatment in 1966. Competition increased every year, but Atkin Draperies' business remained successful because of the company's quality workmanship and reputation for always delivering whatÕs promised.
After 20 years, Sara and Wes passed the business on to their eldest son, Joe, and his wife, Evie, in 1988. Evie was familiar with all aspects of the operation from her experience working beside Sara for 13 years. Joe added equipment to fabricate hard window treatments, specializing in Plantation Shutters, and an upholstery department featuring the workmanship of Abel Benally, which is another popular segment of the business. Joe and Evie's son, Wes T., works as a professional installer while daughter Kelly pitches in as needed. Atkin Draperies continues to be a strong family business.
Joe says everything the company manufactures is custom made. The company's clientele includes home owners and interior decorators. Participation in the annual Southern Utah Parade of Homes has also generated a lot of positive exposure for the business.
I had a big smile on my face as I drove away from Atkin Draperies, recalling a sign on the wall that said, "The only joy greater than natural childbirth is the joy of owning your own business." I couldn't agree more. Being a business owner is sometimes painful but also rewarding.
