News from Two Blonds & a Brunette Gift Co.

KEVIN BULIVANT

When Kevin expressed interest in a 2B&B franchise a couple years ago, we were impressed for a couple reasons...

One, here was someone in the U.S. interested in seeing a growing Canadian company expand south of the border (this happened much earlier than we originally planned, though how could we ignore the demand!)

and

Two, here was a dad and family man in no way bothered or intimidated by the thought of joining a company founded by two feisty women (one in particular!) and further saturated with dynamic female franchisees.

While jokingly referring to Kevin as the 'Charlie' of the 2B&B 'angels,' we were thrilled to find such a tolerant, humble, and dedicated man.

Whether sourcing that perfect employee gift for a client's custom needs or sharing suggestions with fellow franchisees, Kevin gives much time and careful thought to all his endeavors.

It is this dedication that makes him such a respected and well-liked community member and small business owner.

Here are his thoughts on joining the 2B&B family...

What was your educational and career background prior to joining 2B&B?

"I Went to Saint Mary's University, Halifax, NS and received a B.Comm degree majoring in finance. My career background was in corporate treasury managing foreign exchange and gold hedging for natural resource companies. Prior to joining 2B&B I was a Project Leader at Oracle in the Global Treasury Financial Applications Group."

Can you tell us about your family?

"I was transferred to San Francisco from Vancouver BC in Sept 1992 and I met my wife Mary in Jan 1993 and we were married in 1995. Just by chance my friend from Vancouver met Mary while she was vacationing in Whistler BC in Dec 02 and mentioned I had just moved to San Francisco and did not know anyone and she should call me. She did and the rest is history! We have two beautiful children, Louis-11 and Amelia-9. Spending time with my family and volunteering for the kids school/sports activities keeps our family very busy. We also have two dogs, Buddy the Beagle and Giles, a King Charles Spaniel."

What appealed to you about joining 2B&B?

"I loved the brand name / website and that it was a relatively new startup situation. They had a history in Canada but were just starting out in the US so being involved early in the US expansion was a big plus for me. I also liked the fresh new approach to corporate gifting and the franchise concept for this business model which reduced a lot of risks associated with starting a new business from scratch. The 2B&B founders' passion, commitment and vision for the business and the Canadian connection were also very appealing."

What is your goal with 2B&B in your community?

"My goal is to grow a successful business, have fun, and to give back to my community. My plan is to support the Little Children's Aid Junior Auxiliary, a 100 year old charitable organization, committed to supporting underprivileged/homeless families and at-risk young adults through financial contributions and group service projects."

What are your favorite

2B&B products?

"I love the Belgian Chocolate Dipped Pretzels ... the salty-sweet taste & crunchiness is a great combination. My other favorite is our hand-made all-natural Almond Butter Toffee ... I have to keep it locked up!"

Anything else you'd like to share?

"In 2004, I took a one year leave of absence to take care of my daughter when she started kindergarten. This was a wonderful experience and gave me a new appreciation for stay-at-home moms and how difficult it is. In 2005, my job was outsourced so I decided to become a stay-at-home dad, which allowed me the opportunity to start my own business. Not too soon after, I found 2B&B!"

THANK YOU KEVIN!!!!

We are proud to have you be part of the 2B&B team.

Join our fabulous gift-giving team...

FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES

lauramcdonald@twobandb.com