Meet Ben Cole | Owner of Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ben Cole and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ben, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
I would say the most difficult decision I’ve ever had to make was the decision to start a whole new career at the age of 44. I have been in the private yacht industry for the past 20 years. It took me to wonderful places around the world but as my family grew, it became harder to say goodbye for those long periods of time. After much research I finally found something that I knew I could be passionate about, grow without limits and that would keep me close to my wife and two daughters. It took courage and something I’ve always followed…those gut feelings that this was the right thing to do.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Our business is professional outdoor lighting design and installation. We bought the franchise for Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton back in July 2020. Outdoor Lighting Perspectives is North America’s leading full service outdoor lighting company with over 20 years in the business, specializing in residential, commercial, hospitality and holiday lighting. We offer low voltage LED brass and copper fixtures with a lifetime warranty. We have had incredible support system from corporate and haven’t had to struggle through any of the challenges and milestones alone. Outdoor lighting is all we do. We live and breathe it. We hope to continue to provide the best customer service in South Florida!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would definitely start off by taking them on the water taxi. It’s a great way to see Fort Lauderdale from the water. One of my all time favorite restaurants is Coconuts down at the beach and happy hour drinks sitting on the porch at the Pelican Grand. An airboat ride out in the Everglades is a fun, family filled day. Lauderdale Marine Center (LMC) has a great new hotspot called YOT which is nestled in the marina amongst the big mega yachts. A must see for out of town guests! Down town Las Olas is a wonderful place for dinner, we love going to Louie Bossi’s and then taking a little stroll to get ice cream at the famous Kilwins.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Firstly my wife, Hayley Cole, who is always there with unwaivering love and encouragement. Having someone to listen to my crazy ideas and help make them a reality was a huge reassurance. Thinking back, I was really grateful to my friend, Matt Hatcher (Owner of Scratch Removal Specialists) for his guidance and business advice, especially in the early stages of starting out and getting the business up and running.

Website: https://www.outdoorlights.com/ft-lauderdale-boca-raton/

Instagram: @olpfortlauderdale

Facebook: @OLPFtlauderdaleBocaRaton

Yelp: Outdoor Lighting Perspectives – Fort Lauderdale