North Haven Small Business Spotlight: The Bud Group

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this exciting series — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

• Business: The Bud Group
• Owners: Nick Barone
• Website: www.TheBudGroup.com

How did you come up with name?

Since high school my close friends called me “Bud.” It caught on and today they still call me that name. I was thinking of an idea for my business and I thought; Why not name my business after this friend’s nickname? So that’s exactly what I did.

What business are you In?

Technology education and repair. We assist people who want to learn today’s latest technology. Some of the products we educate on: iPads, iPhones, Laptops, Desktop Computers, Netflix Devices, Cameras, Computer Software, Operating Systems, and many more.

Why start a business in this town?

I have lived here my entire life. It’s a very friendly close-knit community.

What is the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

Getting the word out to the correct demographic at an affordable rate. We are primarily assisting the 45+age bracket and to target that market we are faced with high newspaper and direct mail costs. We have found that word of mouth has been a more lucrative form of advertising. Our website is rarely used by our customers since the customers we work with don’t know how to use this technology.

What has been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

Placing my first AD within the Advisor. To see something you built 100 percent on your own is an accomplishment.

How does your business give back to the community?

We are currently in the process of offering the North Haven Library 100% free group classes on the latest technology products and services such as iPads, Facebook, and Netflix.

Would you like to see your small business showcased in this series? Email wendy.mitchell@patch.com.