Why Budget Blinds of Topeka & Manhattan

Here at Budget Blinds of Topeka and Manhattan, we want to take a little time to give a shoutout to our owners, Patrick and Kristi O’Kane! This duo is what makes our location so special—and that’s why we’re going to recognize their passions and achievements. Together, Patrick and Kristi love meeting and networking with so many members of our community—and helping them with high quality products and great service. They’re also deeply appreciative of each of their employees, considering them all part of their family. The couple says they’re thankful and blessed to be part of this community.

So where did it all start? Kristi spent many years as a para-educator and was licensed as a childcare professional. Prior to taking ownership of Budget Blinds, she spent many years working in retail, too.

As for Patrick, he spent the years between 1993 and 1997 in the U.S. Army, where he was an electronic warfare systems technician. As such, he was stationed at Ft Devens, MA, Camp Humphries in Korea, and Ft. Huachuca, AZ. After that, he worked for Sprint in Overland Park. He also has a bachelor’s degree in management and human relations from MidAmerica Nazarene University.

These diverse life experiences have certainly served them well ever since they took ownership of Budget Blinds in 2015!

The year 2015 was also when Kristi and Patrick moved to Topeka. While they moved from Olathe, both are originally from southwest Kansas and the Oklahoma panhandle.

As to things they enjoy when they’re not here at Budget Blinds, the couple says they love spending time with family and friends. Both of their adult children moved to Topeka shortly after they did, and their daughter has two children that these proud grandparents love to spoil. Kristi and Patrick also love spending time outdoors—walking, camping, or just relaxing by the firepit.

Here at Budget Blinds, we love having Kristi and Patrick as our team leaders—and when you need the best in window treatments, you’ll love working with them! Join us in celebrating their many accomplishments together!

Miguel joined the Budget Blinds team in 2017.  He has continued to stay here because of "...the great flexibility and work-life balance..." Miguel grew up in the Topeka area and loves to be outside and playing sports.  He and his lovely wife have 3 children and a golden retriever.

Miguel is a seasoned install professional and his attention to detail is second to none!  Plus, he has an amazing personality.  He keeps the Budget Blinds family constantly laughing!

Jakob has many years of installation experience and has been around the business since the beginning.  One of his favorite things is seeing repeat customers.  Knowing that they had a great 1st experience with Budget Blinds of Topeka & Manhattan and now they are coming back for a 2nd, 3rd some even a 4th time.

Although Jakob grew up in Olathe KS, he has also spent time in Manhattan, but now he calls Topeka home.  He has 2 fur-babies.  Rusty, a Brittany Spaniel and Franklin a Lab and border collie mix.  Jakob is an avid golfer and starting to apply those skills in Disc Golf.

Nicole was born and raised in the Topeka and Auburn area.  She graduated Washburn Technical Institute with a certificate in Office Technology.  She loves talking with customers and being the face and voice of the Budget Blinds of Topeka & Manhattan team.

Nicole has 3 children that keep her free time busy with sports and dancing events.  She loves being outdoors.  Especially in the summer when she likes to go to the lake and swim and soak up the sun

Craig is our sales and marketing account executive.  He specializes in client services for interior designers, new construction & remodel companies, as well as commercial bidding.  He brings with him 20+ years of experience from the "Corporate World".  During this time he gained experience in Marketing, Financial Planning, and Ecommerce.

Craig was born and raised in the Topeka Kansas Community.  He and his wife have 2 children, 4 dogs, 3 cats, and 1 tractor named "Lucy".

Whether he is presenting to a CEO, talking with your special client, or working with a personal friend.  Craig is here to listen to your needs and work with you to develop a solution that fits your style and budget.