Stephanie Vanderbilt Started Coastal Windows & Exteriors with a Single Desk Above a Warehouse
With no prior experience in the home improvement business, Stephanie Vanderbilt faced a daunting challenge: turning her passion for exterior remodeling into a viable business. Lacking expertise in critical areas like financial planning, marketing, and operations, she realized the need for guidance.
Vanderbilt found the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center (MSBDC) at Salem State University, where she discovered the tools and mentorship needed to craft a comprehensive business plan. This not only laid the groundwork for launching Coastal Windows & Exteriors but also equipped Stephanie with the confidence to navigate the complexities of running a small business.
Stephanie also used her foundation as a teacher of the deaf for 12 years. Her experience in education gave her a unique perspective on communication, patience, and the power of teaching. Early in developing the business, she focused on thoroughly educating customers about the benefits of energy efficiency and environmentally friendly products. This approach laid the foundation for building loyal, long-term customer relationships.
Through the support of the MSBDC, Stephanie created a solid business plan and learned how to position Coastal Windows & Exteriors in a competitive market.
Stephanie Vanderbilt was named the 2024 Massachusetts Small Business Person of the Year during National Small Business Week, pictured with SBA Administrator Isabel Guzman.
Pandemic Home Renovation Boom
In 2020, the company doubled its number of employees from 5 to 10, despite the global challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Homeowners were taking the opportunity to renovate their house while everything was shut down by social distancing. By 2021, Coastal Windows & Exteriors expanded its team to 20 employees – today managing over 30 skilled professionals.
Reflecting on the company’s growth and success, Stephanie shares:
“I am deeply honored to be recognized as the Small Business Person of the Year for Massachusetts. This accolade reflects not just my journey, but the hard work and dedication of our entire team at Coastal Windows & Exteriors, “said Owner Stephanie Vanderbilt. “From our humble beginnings above a warehouse to a flagship storefront, we've not only adapted and expanded but also integrated sustainable practices and committed ourselves to giving back to our community.”
Empowering Homeowners and Inspiring Women in Trades
Under Stephanie’s leadership, she has been active among several women and trade organizations including National Women in Roofing, Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Boston, Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Massachusetts, Beverly Chamber Power of Women Committee, and The National Association of Home Builders Professional Women in Building Council.
Vanderbilt has made giving back a cornerstone of Coastal Windows & Exteriors. Through the Roof for Heroes initiative, the company donates free roofs to veterans and their families. In addition, Stephanie spearheaded the Freedom from Want Thanksgiving Project, an annual tradition that provides turkeys to the Open Door Food Pantry. The project helps feed local families in need during the holidays, reinforcing Coastal Windows & Exteriors’ strong ties to the community.
From large-scale donations to organizations like Habitat for Humanity to impactful local efforts, Stephanie’s philanthropic work reflects her belief in the power of businesses to transform communities.
Today, Stephanie remains focused on leading Coastal Windows & Exteriors into a sustainable and innovative future. Her dedication to empowering homeowners and inspiring women in trades continues to fuel the company’s success, ensuring its legacy as a business that makes an impact in the local community.