Walking through IKEA several months ago, I happened to look up and notice giant ceiling fans throughout the building. I thought to myself, "Those are some big-ass fans." And, it turns out I was right.

 

Upon closer inspection, I noticed that these fans were actually branded Big Ass Fans®! When I returned to my office, I looked them up online, and discovered just how much this company embraces their quirky name.

 

I checked out their history and discovered that the company started out in 1999 as the HVLS Fan Company. Of course, as the fans were delivered and installed, people kept commenting that those were some "big ass fans." Soon, the name was changed, and a mascot, Fanny the Donkey, was adopted. It was fate.

 

I think it's genius! I doubt I will ever actually need a Big Ass Fan, but I can guarantee that if I do, Big Ass Fans will be the name I remember and the first company I call.  And after taking the time to peruse the website, I got a real feeling for the mindset of this company. While they revel in their quirky name, it's clear that they take what they do very seriously, including their commitment to service and quality. They even have a comment/complaint section, where I did find a few people who found the name and marketing offensive... but that's bound to happen.

 

Overall, I got a good feeling about this company, their marketing, and their corporate culture. And, every time I think of their name, I grin like a four-year-old. And, in case the name alone doesn't make you feel good about this company,  the fact that they donate all proceeds from their "Big Ass Fans" merchandise to the Longhopes Donkey Shelter rescue, should warm your heart.