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From Dream to Reality: BHB Auto Detailing’s Journey with Kitsap Credit Union
Starting a business at a young age comes with its fair share of challenges, but for Xavier Bertella and Daniel Bolander, founders of BHB Auto Detailing in Kitsap County, their partnership with Kitsap Credit Union has played a pivotal role in their entrepreneurial journey. In this interview, Xavier and Daniel share how Kitsap Credit Union helped them navigate the hurdles of business ownership and how they’ve seen their success unfold.
Q: Starting a business as young entrepreneurs must have been challenging. What was one of your biggest hurdles when you first decided to start BHB Auto Detailing?
Xavier: One of the biggest challenges was finding a bank that would support us. We were under 18, and many financial institutions were hesitant to create a joint business account for us. That’s when we turned to Kitsap Credit Union. They were willing to work with us right from the beginning, which made all the difference. We didn’t just get a business account—we received advice, support, and resources that really helped us get started.
Q: So, Kitsap Credit Union really made the difference in getting you started. Can you tell us more about how they helped beyond just the basic banking services?
Daniel: Absolutely. Not only did Kitsap Credit Union provide us with essential banking services, but they also helped us network with other businesses and entrepreneurs. Their connections and local knowledge were invaluable, and we were introduced to some key individuals who have helped our business grow.
Xavier: That’s true. But beyond that, the personalized service we received was a game-changer. The staff at KCU made it clear that they were invested in our success. They were always ready to answer our questions and provide solutions tailored to our needs.
Q: It seems like having a strong support network has been key to your success. Can you tell us about someone who made a big impact on your business?
Xavier: Absolutely. In December 2023, we met Phoenix Howell, who, along with his father and brother, had extensive connections in the car and detailing industries. This network really gave us a head start. We skipped a lot of the typical learning curve that most new businesses face. Phoenix’s mentorship helped us focus on building our business more quickly and efficiently, which was a huge advantage in such a competitive market.
Q: Every new business faces challenges. What are some of the obstacles you've encountered so far, and how did you overcome them?
Daniel: One of the biggest challenges has been balancing school, personal life, and the demands of running a business. It’s tough to manage everything when you’re still in school and trying to grow a business at the same time.
Xavier: Another challenge was marketing. In the winter months, business slows down a bit, and finding creative ways to keep customers coming in has been tricky. Also, being under 18 has meant that we’ve had to rely on our parents for certain legal matters. But overall, these challenges have taught us valuable lessons in time management and adaptability.
Q: What advice would you give to other young entrepreneurs who are just starting out?
Xavier: My advice is simple—don’t be shy! Be bold and take every opportunity that comes your way. A lot of young entrepreneurs hesitate because they feel unsure, but if you’re not afraid to put yourself out there, doors will open.
Daniel: I’d add that it’s important to reinvest in your business rather than taking profits right away. If you can grow your business first, the rewards will follow. And networking is essential. Getting to know the right people can really help you take your business to the next level.
Q: Looking back at your journey, how has Kitsap Credit Union played a role in your success, and why would you recommend them to other business owners?
Xavier: Honestly, I would absolutely recommend KCU to not just young business owners, but to any business owner. They don’t just treat you like a number—they truly value their clients. Kitsap Credit Union even went as far as changing a few policies and creating a brand-new program specifically for us, BHB Auto Detailing. If that’s not top-tier customer service, I don’t know what is.
Daniel: They’ve been with us every step of the way. From banking services to helping us connect with others, they’ve been a reliable partner. It’s rare to find that kind of personal attention from a financial institution, and that’s why KCU stands out for us.
As young entrepreneurs, Xavier and Daniel’s journey is a testament to the power of community support, the importance of networking, and the value of having the right partner. With Kitsap Credit Union by their side, BHB Auto Detailing is not only surviving—it's thriving.
Their story is proof that with determination, the right resources, and a supportive network, young entrepreneurs can overcome any obstacle and build a successful business.
Ready to start your journey at Kitsap Credit Union? Get started today at kitsapcu.org.
Q: Starting a business as young entrepreneurs must have been challenging. What was one of your biggest hurdles when you first decided to start BHB Auto Detailing?
Xavier: One of the biggest challenges was finding a bank that would support us. We were under 18, and many financial institutions were hesitant to create a joint business account for us. That’s when we turned to Kitsap Credit Union. They were willing to work with us right from the beginning, which made all the difference. We didn’t just get a business account—we received advice, support, and resources that really helped us get started.
Q: So, Kitsap Credit Union really made the difference in getting you started. Can you tell us more about how they helped beyond just the basic banking services?
Daniel: Absolutely. Not only did Kitsap Credit Union provide us with essential banking services, but they also helped us network with other businesses and entrepreneurs. Their connections and local knowledge were invaluable, and we were introduced to some key individuals who have helped our business grow.
Xavier: That’s true. But beyond that, the personalized service we received was a game-changer. The staff at KCU made it clear that they were invested in our success. They were always ready to answer our questions and provide solutions tailored to our needs.
Q: It seems like having a strong support network has been key to your success. Can you tell us about someone who made a big impact on your business?
Xavier: Absolutely. In December 2023, we met Phoenix Howell, who, along with his father and brother, had extensive connections in the car and detailing industries. This network really gave us a head start. We skipped a lot of the typical learning curve that most new businesses face. Phoenix’s mentorship helped us focus on building our business more quickly and efficiently, which was a huge advantage in such a competitive market.
Q: Every new business faces challenges. What are some of the obstacles you've encountered so far, and how did you overcome them?
Daniel: One of the biggest challenges has been balancing school, personal life, and the demands of running a business. It’s tough to manage everything when you’re still in school and trying to grow a business at the same time.
Xavier: Another challenge was marketing. In the winter months, business slows down a bit, and finding creative ways to keep customers coming in has been tricky. Also, being under 18 has meant that we’ve had to rely on our parents for certain legal matters. But overall, these challenges have taught us valuable lessons in time management and adaptability.
Q: What advice would you give to other young entrepreneurs who are just starting out?
Xavier: My advice is simple—don’t be shy! Be bold and take every opportunity that comes your way. A lot of young entrepreneurs hesitate because they feel unsure, but if you’re not afraid to put yourself out there, doors will open.
Daniel: I’d add that it’s important to reinvest in your business rather than taking profits right away. If you can grow your business first, the rewards will follow. And networking is essential. Getting to know the right people can really help you take your business to the next level.
Q: Looking back at your journey, how has Kitsap Credit Union played a role in your success, and why would you recommend them to other business owners?
Xavier: Honestly, I would absolutely recommend KCU to not just young business owners, but to any business owner. They don’t just treat you like a number—they truly value their clients. Kitsap Credit Union even went as far as changing a few policies and creating a brand-new program specifically for us, BHB Auto Detailing. If that’s not top-tier customer service, I don’t know what is.
Daniel: They’ve been with us every step of the way. From banking services to helping us connect with others, they’ve been a reliable partner. It’s rare to find that kind of personal attention from a financial institution, and that’s why KCU stands out for us.
As young entrepreneurs, Xavier and Daniel’s journey is a testament to the power of community support, the importance of networking, and the value of having the right partner. With Kitsap Credit Union by their side, BHB Auto Detailing is not only surviving—it's thriving.
Their story is proof that with determination, the right resources, and a supportive network, young entrepreneurs can overcome any obstacle and build a successful business.
Ready to start your journey at Kitsap Credit Union? Get started today at kitsapcu.org.
March 12, 2025