In February of 2013, Paula Blankenship was 50 years old, single and raising her teenage son. She started a business in her kitchen simply to give her son Braden something to do and teach him her entrepreneurial ways. She had always been around paint and refinishings furniture due to her parents and her mothers love of buying old furniture and updating it. Paula's mother Clarice was a true pioneer and had been in many businesses through her life and owning a thriving furniture business was among those. Paula grew up in a home that was filled with love and support that allowed her to dream big. Nothing was out of reach if she truly desired it. Paula raised her son with that same spirit and wanted it to contnue those effort through this small venture in the kitchen.
Paula began researching paint trying to understand what was lacking and soon developed a paint that has revolutionized DIY world and would become a leader in the market today. She not only created a unique ALL-IN-ONE Paint formula that would help take the guesswork and confusion out of painting that contains everything in one can, she also designed and developed a limited color palette for 36 on trend colors and prep & painting tools that allow users of any skill level to use the products successfully, without hiring professionals. This DIY system of Just Clean & Paint has become her montra and many consider her the "Queen of Paint"
Paula began sharing her story and paint and it's easy to use "Just Clean & Paint" story online and quickly amassed a huge following on social media. Today her brands reach millions across all platforms and help engage with thousands of new and experienced users of her products. She even does FREE private color consultations to further help those who are struggling to find the right shade of color for their project.
Today her business has grown exponentially and just recently acquired the 75 year old paint manufacturer who had been producing her products over the years. Just recently the WPO & JP Morgan Chase bank recognized Paula and Heirloom Traditions Paint as the 22nd fastest growing women-led business in the country. Her love for the business extends to the employees as well. In 2021, the company became an ESOP, giving employees ownership in the business. "This is a team effort" is a true statement, says Paula. "I want each person here to enjoy going to work as much as I do. "
The company and it's products are encouragers of women (and men) of all economic divercites and help to insprire them to recreate their homes (cabinets, countertops, furniture, bathtubs, etc. using ALL-IN-ONE Paint and it's simple to use methods. The private Facebook group of nearly 500K users is a true testement to the products and its users. Here, before and after photos and customers real reviews are the strength of the business today.
The companies offers new customers a FREE SAMPLE of their revolutionalry paint. Customers receive a paint and stain color fan deck and enough paint to paint their front door and a vanity (35-40 sq ft.) or a small piece of furniture. This allows new customers to try the products and experience the extreme durability, no brushstroke finish and beautiful sheen his paint allows.
Many new and exciting things are on the horizons as we look for new ways to share our products. Paula and her recently formed production company, Black Box Media are in process of creating a unique television "DIY Country" a show centered around DIY and Country Music entertainers and home improvements showcasing Heirlooms Traditions products. "We are working towards several network and streaming opportunities.
Nomination Title: Paula Blankenship
