Valentine’s Day is right around the corner! Ladies and gentlemen, do you have your plans finalized? Whether you and your spouse like to go out for a fancy dinner or stay in with take-out, your day should be special. Our Texas insurance agency has a few ideas to throw out on the table for those who are a little late with the planning.

Here are 10 ways to show your spouse some love on Valentine’s Day!

1. Make your loved one breakfast in bed- and remember to clean up, too!
2. Send your wife flowers to the office to brighten her work day.
3. Pamper your husband with a foot rub at the end of the long day!
4. Make a small scrapbook filled with photos, notes, quotes and memories.
5. Choose a beautiful necklace for your wife or a fancy watch for your husband. Just remember to look into valuable article insurance!
6. Instead of buying a Hallmark card this year, how about you make your own?
7. If you have a personal day available, take the day off from work and spend quality time together.
8. Check out life insurance quotes together in order to protect each other from the unforeseen.
9. Go an entire day without chores, cleaning and nagging.
10. Take your loved one out for a special dinner, fine dining or diner dining.

There are always ways to show your husband or wife that you love them on this special day. However, do you really need a special day to do these things? No! Make it a habit to always show your love, even during the worst of times.

Our Texas insurance agency also believes that life insurance should not only be a decision made around Valentine’s Day- it is a priority! Having the proper coverage in place will have both of you breathing sighs of relief. Whether you choose term or whole life, you will love knowing that things are financially secure if one of you should pass unexpectedly.

Enough of the somber thoughts- go and celebrate another beautiful day together!

*

                          

Only two more weeks until Valentine’s Day! For all those who are married, what will you be doing for your spouse this year? Year after year… it may get hard to keep coming up with great ideas. Honestly, it probably does not take much to make your significant other happy. Dinner and some chocolate will most likely suffice! However, if you are looking to take your gift a step further this year, may we suggest the gift of protection?

At Dagley Insurance and Financial Services, we believe that life insurance is a gift. Unlike other policies, this is coverage designed for your loved ones more than it is for yourself. If you are not already covered, now is the perfect time. What if something should happen to you? Without life insurance, your spouse would be left to fend for themselves (bills, mortgage, final expenses, etc.) That doesn’t sound so romantic, does it?

Of course, there are other ideas too. Here are a few that we believe your spouse will enjoy!

• A homemade card
• A flower arrangement
• Take chocolate to the next level with Personalized M&M’s
• Fine jewelry
• Tickets to a show/concert/sport event
• Fragrance
• A CD mix of all their favorite songs

So what are you waiting for? Are you ready to give the gift of protection this year? Be sure to speak with our Texas insurance agency about your options and even ways to receive the lowest possible premium. We would love to help.

Good luck finding that perfect gift!

*

                          

As a restaurant owner and chef, you should always be aiming to improve your dishes and keep your customers coming back for more. If not, your restaurant is sure to miss out on potential business! So how are you keeping your customers happy?

Here are a few tips:

• Continue to update your menu and add new dishes.
• Feature specials on the menu on a daily basis.
• Smile, smile, smile. Cheery service will go a long way.
• Pick up the pace! Fast service is always appreciated.
• Ask your customers for input and take their comments into consideration.
• Keep the dining area clean, as well as the kitchen area.

Your restaurant, café, bar, or grille is sure to be hopping once you incorporate a few of these tips into your kitchen. The more business, the more money…the more risks.

Yes, we mentioned risks! If your restaurant is going to be full of people, it is crucial to make sure each and every risk is covered. You cannot predict the moment someone chokes in your restaurant, slips and falls or even falls victim to food poisoning. Luckily, our restaurant liability insurance is there to take care of any unexpected issues, whether out in the dining area or behind the scenes in the kitchen.

Until then, good luck with the initiatives!

*

                          

Going green seems to be the thing to do these days. While some may have made resolutions to lose weight or get fit, others may be hopping on the green bandwagon! Going green does not only have to be a “homeowner thing”, either. As a business owner, you can take your green initiatives over to the office.

Here are 10 ways to go green at work:

1. Encourage employees to recycle by placing a plastic and paper bin in the kitchen or lounge.
2. Choose recycled-paper products for your office.
3. Have employees bring in their own mug for coffee and tea instead of buying paper goods.
4. Invest in a few Energy Star appliances for the office (printers, scanners, etc.)
5. Change all bulbs in the office to CFL bulbs.
6. If possible, have employees print double-sided to save on paper.
7. Make sure all computers and electronics are turned off before leaving the office.
8. Look into sensory lights for rooms that are not always in use (bathroom, kitchen, etc.)
9. Go digital by sending out company newsletters and memos via e-mail.
10. Allow each employee a day to telecommute to save on gas and driving.

As you can see, there are always ways you can go green in the office! Our Texas insurance agency believes that doing your part to save the environment and keep a healthy work environment is crucial. That is exactly why we offer reliable business insurance, too. Be sure to speak with us to grab a free quote!

*

                          

As a homeowner, you should constantly be looking for ways to save on bills, energy, and your Colorado insurance. While it may seem almost impossible to do so at times, that could not be any further from the truth! There are always ways to save and we have ten easy ones to share, right here!

#1: Keep your thermostat set on automatic at the same temperature. Messing with the temperature over and over will affect your bill.

#2: Nix paper and plastic purchases by using ceramic or glass dishes, cups and silverware.

#3: Insulate your attic and close off rooms that are not in use. This will save on your heating bill.

#4: Unplug any appliances around your home that are not consistently in use, such as the toaster, electric tooth brushes, etc.

#5: Keep up with your home’s maintenance to avoid any big repairs, damages or issues.

#6: Instead of cranking the heat, invest in a few space heaters to use around your home.

#7: Bundle your policies with the same Colorado insurance company. Having auto, home and life with the same company is sure to save on your premium.

#8: Only run full loads of laundry and dishes. This can help you save on water costs.

#9: Make sure you do not have “too much” coverage. Speak with an expert about having the proper coverage in place without coverage gaps.

#10: Avoid eating out during the week. Not only is it worse for your waist, but it can drain your bank account. Fill up your fridge with healthy options and cook at home.

As you can see, there are always ways to save money at home! All it takes are a few mindful choices and the proper coverage. Be sure to speak with our Colorado insurance company today about putting the proper home insurance in place!

*

                          

It’s National Stamp Collecting Month! We know you’ve probably been counting down the days in anticipation. As your trusted Texas Insurance Agency, we have a responsibility to make sure our clients and their property are prepared in the case of any incident. Considering that more than 20 million people collect stamps in the United States, there are probably a few “philatelists” out there. For some it has gone beyond a hobby and has turned into an investment opportunity. For a point of reference, the Three-Skilling Yellow, a rare Swedish stamp sold for $2.3 million in 1996. In fact, there are countries that create stamps mostly for the purpose of selling them to collectors as an added stream of revenue. Wishing you knew more about philately now?

Alright, so most of you probably don’t have a Three-Skilling Yellow or an Inverted Jenny lying around the house; however, you may have a valuable collection of some sort. Most collectors assume that their rare valuables are covered in totality by their homeowner’s policy. Your homeowner’s policy will cover up to a certain amount of damage or theft in line with your deductible; however it’s not set up to cover large value specialty items.

This is where Inland Marine coverage comes into play. If you have a valuable collection of any kind, Inland Marine is something worth looking into. This goes above and beyond your homeowner’s insurance policy to cover high value personal items. Inland Marine coverage will apply whether an incident happens in your home or while traveling. Whether it is a stamp collection, antiques, jewelry, musical instruments or valuable equipment such as cameras or golf gear, we recommend getting Inland Marine coverage for specialty items with values exceeding $1000.

As your trusted Texas insurance agency, we must recommend that if you have a stamp that resembles the one above – look into inland marine coverage immediately and then call the Smithsonian!

                          

Happy New Year! As a restaurant owner, you know what this means: time to change up the menu with a few delicious additions. In the food business, it is important that you keep your customers coming back for more. The number one way to do this is by trying new recipes and challenging yourself to create better dishes.

Need a few pointers? We have some advice to offer…

• If you are unsure of a dish, make it a special. If you get good feedback and the dish is in high demand, add it to the menu.
• Does your restaurant have a classic item? Never rid of that classic item, but what you CAN do is make a new item with a twist on the classic recipe.
• Look into new ways to present your dishes (new plates, new colors, new garnishes etc.)
• Buy an ingredient that you not normally cook with and get creative.

With a few new additions to your menu this year, you are sure to see a change in pace. Having the same menu for years may get old and boring- that is the last thing you want your customers to think about your restaurant.

While you are getting ready for the new year, it may also be a good idea to check on your restaurant liability insurance. Any changes in your business may result in a change in policy. Once you are done making up that new and improved menu, be sure to come speak with us!

*

                          

This new year brings new initiatives and savings. Are you ready to save on policies in 2012? Many Americans are unaware of the minor changes and resolutions that can easily lower their insurance premiums. Luckily, our reliable Texas insurance agency has put together a quick list for you. Here are 10 easy ways you can start saving today!

1. Plan to quit smoking. Your premium for policies such as life and health are determined by your risks. Smoking is one of the greatest risks and those who are hooked on cigarettes will have a significantly higher premium than those who do not. Stick to this resolution for multiple savings- your premium, your wallet and your life.
2. Vow to eat healthier. Again, it all comes down to risks. If you are obese or have health issues, your premium is guaranteed to be higher. Find a healthy diet to follow and hit the gym. Losing weight is a great resolution!
3. Bundle your policies. You may have a few policies with one company and maybe one or two with another. Your best bet is to find one company to cover it all with. By combining and bundling your policies, you will save on your premiums.
4. Raise your deductible. If you can afford a higher deductible, go for it. You can save up to 25% or more by doing this.
5. Ask about discounts. There is literally a discount for everyone. If you do not ask, you will not know. Some of the many discounts include: good student, low mileage, good health, safety features, mature, military, membership, etc.
6. Avoid duplicating coverage. Do you have medical coverage on both your auto and health insurance plan? Figure out which one you can drop without a coverage gap. Many times, Americans actually have too much coverage.
7. Increase your safety. Additional safety and security will help lower your risks. Lower risks equal lower premiums.
8. Avoid paying monthly. Pay your bills every six months to a year if possible. When paying monthly, you will usually be paying a small additional fee.
9. Clean up your credit. Many insurance companies will use your credit score to determine your premium. Make sure you are paying bills on time to keep your credit score up.
10. Shop around. Never choose the first company you see on television. In order to get the best deals, it is best to shop around.

If you are ready to start saving money this year, these tips are sure to help you accomplish that goal…on the insurance end anyways! Be sure to speak with our Texas insurance agency on how you can start saving today, we would be happy to help!

*

                          

Alright, so maybe there weren’t too many used cars in Sherlock Holmes’ day, but when it comes to making a wise decision in purchasing a  used vehicle, a bit of sleuthing is in order.

While finding the best auto insurance in Texas is vital for recovery in the event of an accident or  break in, what you do before you purchase a vehicle could not only save the lives of you and your passengers, but could also prevent  mechanical headaches down the road.

You may visually inspect the car, kick the tires and take it out for a spin, however do you know where it’s been? Researching a vehicle’s  past can tell you a lot about its future.

1. Was the vehicle a victim of theft?
2. Given a new identity after a serious accident?
3. Has someone tampered with or lowered the odometer reading?
4. Unfortunate bystander during a flood, suffering weather damage?
5. An unsavory past afflicted with recalls?

Before you say I do to the Vehicle-To-Be, a background check is advised. The best place to start is by dusting for fingerprints. Let’s clarify – the vehicle’s fingerprint – otherwise known as the VIN number. This fingerprint codes information such as the country where it was manufactured, to as detailed as the plant where the vehicle was assembled. This can be important if the vehicle has a history of recalls. Most importantly, once the VIN number is put into databases such as those at CarFax, AutoCheck.com, or www.vehiclehistory.gov, a wealth of information is easily at your fingertips.

Purchasing a reliable used vehicle is now elementary, my dear Watson.

For more information regarding ongoing protection of your vehicle, contact us for an auto insurance quote today!

                          

Are you ready to start saving in 2012? Let’s start with your business insurance! As your reliable Texas insurance agency, we have a few tips to offer.

Here are five ways to save on your business insurance:

#1: Choose a higher deductible. By choosing a high deductible, you may need to pay extra once an accident occurs, but your premium will be lower. Many businesses can afford the higher deductible.

#2: Take advantage of group rates. The bigger the group, the more savings! If you are a part of an organization, you can often get a group rating. Be sure to check with your local chamber of commerce!

#3: Improve safety in the workplace. Having extra safety features such as training programs and even a security system may help reduce your premium. Make sure your agent knows about these features!

#4: Reduce your coverage. Sounds weird, right? However, while your company needs coverage that does not mean that it needs EVERY single policy. Make sure you speak with your Texas insurance agency about putting the proper coverage in place without overdoing it.

#5: Consider relocation. Many times, your premium will be based on the location and area you are in. If your company is based in a high-crime or risky area, the premium will be much higher. It may be time to relocate!

There are always ways to save on your business insurance premium- you just have to do the research and make the proper changes. Good luck!

*