Brothers team up to tackle home theater market

By The Gazette Staff

In the last 20 years, the way we watch movies has changed a lot, from Betamax to iPods and portable DVD players no bigger than a hardback book.

The one thing that hasn't changed is the pure pleasure of curling up on your own sofa with a bowl full of popcorn to watch the latest release.

In fact, that pleasure has been enhanced 100 times over recently with the advancements in high-end sound systems and digital televisions with screens nearly as big as those in the multiplexes. The best home systems could run up to $200,000.

But home theaters are not just the indulgence of the rich, said Darrin Brun, who runs Home Theaters & More in Billings with his partner, Clayton Brun.

Convincing movie lovers that there are plenty of affordable home theater options is one of his biggest business challenges.

"Many people want a home theater but are not sure where to start, what they need, or how to install and operate it," said Brun. "We can sit down with them and put together a solution that will best fit their lifestyle and budget."

Brun's business is located at 960 S. 24th Street West, Suite B, in Billings and can be reached at 252-4928. Here's what else he had to say about growing his niche business:

Nature of the business?

We are a full-service home theater and whole-home audio business. We strive to be a one-stop shop for anyone interested in home theater and whole-home audio products.

Why start this business?

We want everyone to enjoy the benefits of having their own home theater. A home theater can be as simple as a television and surround sound system in the living room, or a dedicated room featuring the latest and best components and decor available. It is very hard nowadays to find things that every member of the family, no matter what age, can enjoy together. Making some fresh popcorn and watching a movie the way it was intended to be seen never fails.

Where did start up funds come from?

Funding the business has been accomplished mainly from personal finances and hard work.

How long have you been in business?

Three years. It has been a personal passion for more than 20 years.

Biggest challenge in running the business?

First would have to be dispelling the myth that a home theater is only for the wealthiest among us. Second is the obvious, not enough hours in the day!

What was done to overcome those challenges?

We spend a lot of time at places like the Parade of Homes and local home shows talking about and showcasing affordable packages that are quite impressive. As for the not enough hours in the day, I have no solution for that as of yet.

What is being done to expand the business?

Opening the store has been a big one. We also changed our name from Audio Video Solutions to Home Theaters & More. We felt it better described what we do. We are also building alliances with many of the other specialty professions that assist in what we do. We have carpenters, drapery makers, electricians, lighting, faux painters, alarm installers and many other trades that we can work with so that we can coordinate very efficiently.

Your best business decision?

Opening the store so that we can better show and demonstrate our products has been a great move. Teaming up with Definitive Technology, NAD, Bresnan Communications and many other national brands has added greatly to our success.

Your worst business mistake?

Waiting such a long time to open the store would have to be the worst. With what we do it is difficult to describe the way something looks or sounds without having the ability to demonstrate it. Also, trying to get new customers is more difficult if you don't have a place for them to readily find you.

What advice do you have for someone running a business?

It would have be to assess what it is you are doing and why you are doing it. You better be passionate about what you do because if you are not, those long days will seem even longer. If you truly love what you do, the days will fly by and the next day won't come soon enough.

Number of workers?

Two full time, myself and my partner. We utilize our other trade associates to assist on intricate jobs.

What is your five-year business plan?

To help make sure everyone has a home theater we would like to expand the store and product lines, hire some assistants and expand our customer base.

What would like to ask other entrepreneurs?

I am most curious about hiring the highest-quality people. How they have been the most successful in finding and keeping their best employees?

If you weren't doing what you are now, what would be your dream job?

If not home theater then I would say building the whole house would be the next coolest job. I have worked with many of the home builders in the Billings area and that has given me an appreciation for the patience and skill they have. Being able to stand back and admire a job well done is very important to me.

Published in the Billings Gazette