At the Old Town Crier, it is always our greatest pleasure to support our neighbors and local business owners. This month I had the pleasure of meeting Ken Boland, owner of Affordable Signs & Banners, conveniently located at 423 Calvert Avenue in Alexandria.

Established in 1989, Del Ray’s Affordable Signs & Banners is well known and regarded in our community. It is an independently owned, certified small business specializing in custom interior and exterior signs. Regardless of your need, I am willing to bet Ken and his dedicated team and make it a reality. From banners, window lettering and even large format prints, delivering on their product is their priority. Whether it is a retail and restaurant storefront, regulatory and traffic signs, special events, meetings or even conventions, it is likely you have already seen Affordable Signs & Banners’ fine work right here in the heart of Alexandria.

Celebrating their 25^th year in business, Ken knows a thing or two about managing for success. Having been an entrepreneur since before high school, he also knows that he likes to call the shots, take the risks, and reap the benefits. (The joys of being your own boss!)

Ken wasn’t kidding when he said he got an early start on entrepreneurship. He owned and operated the largest newspaper stand on the east side of Detroit for six years before leaving for Houston at age 18. After working in the corporate environment for eight years he realized that running the show was the best career path, and found his way to Virginia in 1988 to make his vision a reality.

When asked what Ken enjoys most about owning and operating Affordable Signs & Banners, it was clear that he is intrinsically motivated by the work that they do. “We really enjoy what we do. I have always believed that selling a quality product at a fair price, and treating customers and employees as I like to be treated, would be a formula for success, and it has worked.”

Celebrating 25 years in business, Ken and his team Affordable Signs & Banners invite you to an Open House on Tuesday, August 5^th from 5pm – 7pm. Longtime customers or individuals curious about what they have to offer are encouraged to stop by and join them for a beverage and a piece of cake!

As proud members of the United States Sign Council, Del Ray Business Association and Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association, Affordable Signs & Banners understands the importance of supporting our small businesses and organizations. Ken and his neighbors have watched Alexandria develop over the years, and he understands the need to preserve our independently owned and operated shops and services.

Determined to keep up with the latest advances in sign making and printing, Affordable Signs & Banners will always provide a quality product at a fair price. Ken values his customers and team of seven employees equally. As residents who live, shop and dine in Alexandria, they get to see how their work contributes to the community, the writing on the wall if you will, each and every day. In Ken’s words, “we would not have gotten this far without a talented staff, one who shares my creative passion for sign making, and are dedicated to making this company work well for all of us.”

Success in this competitive business can be attributed to producing durable products, using creative designs and top quality materials. Affordable Signs & Banners offer friendly service and quick turnaround, at an affordable pricing. Stop by, call, or go online to learn more about Ken, and the great work that Affordable Signs & Banners do for our community!

Written by: Elizabeth Jones