Interview with Blanka Hrabe
This is the first series of Home Estate Realty’s videos “Inspirational Companies” Series. This month, I interviewed Blanka Hrabe, Founder, Owner, and CEO of Berushka’s Cleaning Services. It’s an amazing story of one woman who went from cleaning homes on her own to now owning her own company, employing 15 mothers, and utilizing a fleet of lady bug cars to boot. She is truly an exemplary example of what is possible in America and one of the most inspirational companies in action.
THE COMPANY
Berushka’s Cleaning Services prides itself on cleaning the “European” way to get the job done. That means, the old fashioned “hands and knees” scrubbing. It also means treating each home as if it were their own. Most of this company’s business comes from referrals. Now the company employs 15 women and owns a fleet of ladybug vehicles.
THE AMERICAN DREAM
Originally from the Czech Republic, Blanka (formerly Prochazkova) came to the United States at the age of 16 with one suitcase and $300 in her pocket. She was after the American dream. Her contact did not pick her up at the airport. She also did not have enough money for a return ticket home. This was just the beginning of Blanka’s struggles. Through many more trials and challenges, Blanka’s determination and strong work ethic carried her through dark times.
The company offers free consultations and simplifies the entire process by bringing their own equipment and cleaning supplies after learning of any allergies customers may have with certain cleaning brands. They does not charge extra for the first cleaning and added that they also clean windows, with the saying, “If I see something dirty, I’ll clean it!”
Blanka chose the ladybug as the mascot and logo of her company after the death of her mother in 2008. She saw a picture of her mom in a ladybug costume and thought it would be a great way to remember her. She named her company Berushka, which is the Czech word for “ladybug”.
ABOUT THE COMPANY
Blanka is passionate about providing the very best service to her clients and also treating her company’s employees like family. She wants to see her clients and employees prosper.
Most of the company’s business comes through referrals from satisfied customers who notice the difference with her European-style of cleaning. They offer references for people who want to talk with existing clients. “My goal is to work hard and build something for my son who would be able to say, ‘My mom came to this country and built something from nothing,’ Hrabe shared.
She also wants to have a cleaning team, driving Volkswagen bugs, to mimic her ladybug theme. She hopes to have a swarm of these bugs driving around western Prince William County to serve her customers.
Berushka Cleaning can be reached at 703-789-4059.
SEE LIVE VIDEO OF INTERVIEW
KNOW OTHER INSPIRATIONAL COMPANIES?
Contact Me:
Denise Fuller
703-881-6947
[email protected]
