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Customer Simulation Report: Hassan & Layla Al-Rahman

Physician Couple - Large Cultural Gathering Needs

Date: October 11, 2025 Customer Profile: Hassan & Layla Al-Rahman (Vascular Surgeon & Pediatrician) Location: Dearborn, Michigan Combined Income: $950,000 Budget: $34,000 Initial Purchase Likelihood: 72%

Executive Summary

Hassan and Layla Al-Rahman explored spaces.liveouter.com seeking an outdoor entertaining solution for hosting 25-30 person gatherings during Ramadan iftar and Eid celebrations. While the premium quality and aesthetic appeal align with their professional status and budget, critical information gaps regarding capacity planning, timeline certainty, and cultural entertaining needs significantly impacted their purchase decision.

Final Purchase Decision: CONDITIONAL NO (45% likelihood) - Would need direct consultation to address concerns before purchasing

Initial Impressions: Multi-Generational Gathering Perspective

What Resonated Positively

Professional Aesthetic Appeal As successful physicians with refined taste, Hassan and Layla immediately appreciated the modern, clean design aesthetic of the Outer Spaces products. The minimalist approach and high-quality materials (aluminum frame, premium composite decking, 25-year warranty) align with their expectation for long-term investment pieces that reflect their professional status.

One-Day Installation Promise With demanding medical careers, the promise of "installs in a day" was highly attractive. Hassan noted: "We don't have time to deal with contractors for weeks. The fact that this could be professionally installed in a single day is exactly what we need with our schedules."

Largest Model Within Budget The S20 Haven at $34,000 perfectly matches their budget ceiling, suggesting the company understands their target market's price point for premium outdoor living solutions.

Premium Quality Indicators - 25-year warranty signals confidence in longevity - Weather-resistant materials appropriate for Michigan climate - Professional installation included - Patent-pending modular system suggests innovation

Immediate Concerns

Lack of Cultural Context Layla immediately noticed: "All the imagery and marketing feels very... generic American. There's nothing here that speaks to how we entertain, how our family gathers, or the importance of hospitality in our culture." The absence of diverse families or multi-generational gathering scenarios in marketing materials was conspicuous.

Insufficient Capacity Information The most glaring omission was any guidance on guest capacity. For a couple planning 25-30 person gatherings, understanding spatial requirements is critical. Hassan observed: "They show beautiful spaces, but I have no idea if 240 square feet can comfortably accommodate our family. Can we fit a long table for iftar? Can people move around comfortably? Can we set up both dining and lounging areas?"

Missing Timeline Certainty With Eid approximately 10 weeks away, the lack of clear lead time information was concerning. While "one-day installation" is mentioned, there's no information about: - Order to installation timeline - Current backlog or wait times - Seasonal factors affecting installation - Whether they even service Michigan

Size and Capacity Evaluation for 25-30 People

Available Options Analysis

S10 Models (10'x12' = 120 sq ft) - Starting at $12,000-$18,000 - Immediately eliminated as insufficient - "This wouldn't work for even 10-12 people comfortably," Hassan noted

S20 Base (12'x20' = 240 sq ft) - Deck only, starting at $22,000 - Open to elements - Questionable for Michigan weather during March/April (Eid timing)

S20 Breeze (Deck + Partial Pergola) - 12'x20' deck + 10'x12' pergola = 240 sq ft total - Starting at $28,000 - Only partial coverage

S20 Haven (12'x20' = 240 sq ft - Appears to be Full Coverage) - Starting at $34,000 - Dimensions: 12'x20' (3650mm x 5980mm) - Presumably includes both deck and full pergola coverage - Most suitable option for their needs

Space Planning Concerns

Seating Configuration Questions Layla attempted to visualize the layout: "For iftar, we traditionally have a long table setup. A standard 8-foot table is 96 inches. With 20 feet of length, we could potentially place two tables end-to-end, which would seat about 16-18 people. But that leaves only 2 feet on each side for movement, which feels tight."

Hassan added: "And that's just for seated dining. During Eid, people want to move around, children play, we have separate areas for men and women sometimes depending on the guests. We'd need zones for different activities."

Realistic Capacity Assessment Based on standard space planning guidelines: - For standing reception: 240 sq ft could accommodate 24-30 people (10 sq ft per person) - For seated dining: 240 sq ft would comfortably seat 12-16 people (15-20 sq ft per person) - For mixed use (dining + mingling): Capacity drops to 15-20 people comfortably

Layla's Concern: "We regularly host 25-30 people. If this can only comfortably seat 15-20, we'd need to supplement with our existing patio space, which defeats the purpose of creating a dedicated entertaining area."

Missing Critical Information

The website provided no guidance on: - Recommended guest capacity per size - Furniture arrangement examples or templates - Dining table size recommendations - Traffic flow patterns for entertaining - Integration with existing outdoor spaces - Expandability or modularity for larger gatherings

Hassan's Professional Assessment: "As a surgeon, I plan every procedure meticulously. I need data. I need dimensions. I need to see capacity studies or examples. This feels like they're asking me to perform surgery without seeing the patient first."

Timeline Concerns for Eid Celebration

Critical Time Constraint

Eid Timing: Approximately 10 weeks from simulation date (early-to-mid December 2025)

Unknown Variables Creating Anxiety: 1. Order Processing Time: Not disclosed 2. Manufacturing/Fabrication Lead Time: Not mentioned 3. Installation Scheduling: "One day" install is clear, but when can it be scheduled? 4. Permit Processing: Site mentions "permit management" but no timeline 5. Michigan Weather Constraints: Can installation happen in cold weather? 6. Seasonal Demand: Are there backlogs during fall months?

Layla's Perspective

"Ramadan starts in late February 2026, and Eid al-Fitr would be early April. We need this installed and ready by then. Ten weeks might sound like a lot, but in Michigan, we could have snow, frozen ground, or weather delays. The website says 'no weather delays,' but I'm skeptical. The ground screws need to go into soil—what if it's frozen?"

She continued: "And realistically, if we're hosting, I want time to furnish it, decorate it, and do a trial run before the actual event. So we really need installation by early December at the latest, giving us time to prepare."

Hassan's Risk Assessment

"As physicians, we assess risk constantly. Here are the risk factors:

  1. Unknown lead time = Cannot assess feasibility
  2. No Michigan service confirmation = May not even be available in our area
  3. No customer service contact = Cannot get immediate answers
  4. Weather unknowns = Installation risk in Michigan winter
  5. No expedited options mentioned = Cannot pay to accelerate if needed

With a major family celebration on the line, I need certainty. Right now, I have none."

Missing Reassurances

The website could have addressed timeline anxiety with: - Clear "Order Today, Install By [Date]" calculator - Service area map or ZIP code checker - Lead time estimates by season/region - Expedited service options for time-sensitive events - Customer service phone number for urgent consultations - Installation scheduling transparency

Cultural Hospitality Alignment

Arab-American Entertaining Traditions

Hassan and Layla's entertaining style is deeply rooted in Syrian and Lebanese hospitality traditions:

Key Cultural Requirements: - Abundance and Generosity: Tables overflowing with food, multiple dishes, endless tea/coffee service - Multi-Generational Comfort: Spaces that accommodate elderly parents, young children, and everyone in between - Gender-Comfortable Zones: Depending on guest mix, ability to create semi-private areas - Extended Duration: Gatherings often last 4-6 hours, requiring comfortable seating - Weather Protection: Michigan climate demands covered spaces for spring/fall events - Visual Beauty: Hosting is a point of pride; the space must impress - Easy Maintenance: Between gatherings, minimal upkeep needed

How Outer Spaces Aligned

Positive Aspects:

  1. Premium Aesthetic: The modern, sophisticated design would impress guests and reflect well on the hosts
  2. Covered Option: The pergola with adjustable louvers provides weather protection essential for Michigan
  3. Durability: 25-year warranty means this will serve multiple generations
  4. Low Maintenance: Composite decking requires minimal care between events
  5. Neutral Palette: Earth tones work with various decorative themes

Significant Gaps:

  1. No Cultural Representation: Marketing feels homogeneous and doesn't reflect the diversity of potential customers
  2. No Entertaining Scenarios: Website lacks imagery or case studies of actual gatherings, family celebrations, or dining setups
  3. Missing Ambiance Features: No mention of lighting options for evening gatherings, which are central to Ramadan
  4. Heating/Cooling: No information about heaters, fans, or climate control for extended comfort
  5. Sound Considerations: Multi-generational gatherings can be lively; no acoustic features mentioned
  6. Privacy: No discussion of privacy screens, especially relevant for Muslim families

Layla's Cultural Perspective

"When we host iftar, it's not just a meal—it's an act of worship, a cultural tradition, and a community building experience. The space needs to honor that. I'm looking at these photos and I see... a nice deck. But I don't see my family there. I don't see my children running around. I don't see my mother-in-law seated comfortably. I don't see the long table laden with food.

"Maybe it could work, but the website hasn't helped me envision it. They've sold me on the product's quality, but not on how it serves my life."

Hassan's Practical View

"From a practical standpoint, the space could work. The pergola with louvers means we can control sun and rain. The composite decking won't be damaged by spills, which is important with 30 people and lots of food. The modern look aligns with our home's aesthetic.

"But I'm bothered by the lack of culturally informed guidance. We're not the only Arab-American family in Dearborn with money to spend on outdoor living. Actually, we're a huge market. Why hasn't this company thought about how to speak to us? Even just one photo of a diverse family or mention of 'perfect for cultural celebrations' would help."

Decision Analysis: Would They Purchase?

Initial Likelihood: 72%

Post-Exploration Likelihood: 45%

Purchase Decision: CONDITIONAL NO (Would not purchase without direct consultation)

Why They WANT to Buy

  1. Budget Alignment: $34,000 for S20 Haven is exactly their budget
  2. Quality Match: Premium materials and 25-year warranty match expectations
  3. Time Savings: One-day installation fits their busy schedules
  4. Professional Appearance: Modern aesthetic reflects their status
  5. Michigan-Appropriate: Weather-resistant materials needed for climate
  6. Long-Term Investment: Will serve family for decades

Why They WON'T Buy (Without More Information)

Critical Blockers

  1. Capacity Uncertainty (HIGH PRIORITY)
  2. Cannot confirm 240 sq ft accommodates 25-30 people comfortably
  3. No seating/dining layout examples
  4. Risk of purchasing and finding it inadequate

  5. Impact: 30% reduction in purchase likelihood

  6. Timeline Ambiguity (HIGH PRIORITY)

  7. No confirmation of 10-week delivery/installation possibility
  8. Eid deadline is non-negotiable
  9. Cannot risk missing critical cultural celebration

  10. Impact: 25% reduction in purchase likelihood

  11. Service Area Unknown (CRITICAL)

  12. No confirmation of Michigan/Dearborn service
  13. Could be entirely unavailable in their region

  14. Impact: Potential 100% blocker if not serviced

  15. Lack of Contact Options (MEDIUM)

  16. No phone number to call with urgent questions
  17. No chat feature for immediate answers
  18. Form submission means waiting for response
  19. For time-sensitive decision, this is frustrating

  20. Impact: 10% reduction in purchase likelihood

  21. Insufficient Use-Case Demonstration (MEDIUM)

  22. No examples of large gathering setups
  23. No cultural diversity in marketing
  24. Cannot envision their specific needs being met
  25. Impact: 7% reduction in purchase likelihood

What Would Change Their Decision

Minimum Required Information: 1. Confirmation of Michigan service area 2. Confirmation of 10-week (or less) lead time 3. Direct consultation with capacity planning specialist 4. Examples or CAD renderings of 25-30 person setups in 12'x20' space

Highly Persuasive Additions: 1. Case study of similar large-gathering customer 2. Furniture package recommendations 3. Lighting and heating options for evening events 4. Express/priority installation option for time-sensitive needs 5. Satisfaction guarantee or return policy

The Conversation They Want to Have

Layla: "I want to talk to someone who has helped other families like ours. I want them to understand that this isn't just about having a nice deck—this is about honoring our culture, our faith, and our family traditions. Can someone show me photos of a 30-person iftar setup on this deck? Can they recommend a furniture arrangement? Can they tell me about lighting options for evening gatherings?"

Hassan: "I need data and timelines. Pull up your installation calendar, show me when Dearborn installations are scheduled, give me a concrete date. Show me capacity studies or fire code occupancy ratings. Give me dimensions that let me model the space. I'm ready to write a check for $34,000 today, but I need confidence that I'm making the right decision."

Recommendations for Outer Spaces: Serving Culturally-Diverse and Large-Gathering Buyers

Immediate High-Impact Changes

1. Add Capacity Guidance

Problem: Buyers cannot assess if a size meets their needs Solution: - Add "Comfortably hosts X-Y guests" to each product listing - Provide both seated dining and standing reception capacities - Include sample furniture layout templates - Show top-down view diagrams with scale

Example Copy:

S20 Haven (12'x20') - Seated Dining: Comfortably hosts 12-16 guests - Standing Reception: Accommodates 24-30 guests - Mixed Use: Perfect for 18-20 guests with both seating and mingling areas - Recommended: 8-10ft dining table plus lounge seating

2. Display Service Areas and Lead Times Prominently

Problem: Buyers waste time exploring if product isn't available or timely Solution: - Add ZIP code checker on homepage: "See availability in your area" - Display current lead time: "Order today, install by [date range]" - Show service area map - Include expedited options for time-sensitive projects

Example Implementation:

Check Availability Enter your ZIP code: [_____] [Check]

Current lead time for Dearborn, MI: 6-8 weeks Express service available: 4 weeks (+$2,500)

3. Provide Immediate Consultation Access

Problem: High-intent buyers cannot get immediate answers Solution: - Prominent phone number: "Speak with a design consultant: (XXX) XXX-XXXX" - Live chat feature during business hours - "Schedule a consultation" calendar booking - Text message option for mobile users

4. Showcase Diverse Use Cases and Customers

Problem: Buyers cannot envision themselves and their communities using the product Solution: - Photo gallery with diverse families and cultural celebrations - Customer testimonials highlighting different use cases - Video tour of furnished spaces during actual gatherings - Case studies: "How the Ibrahim Family Hosts 30-Person Gatherings"

Specific to Cultural Celebrations: - Iftar/Ramadan gatherings - Extended family reunions - Multi-generational events - Religious and cultural holiday celebrations

Enhanced Product Information

5. Add Accessory and Customization Details

For Large Gatherings: - Furniture packages designed for capacity - Lighting solutions for evening entertaining - Heating/cooling options for season extension - Sound system integration - Privacy screens and room dividers - Serving station/buffet table recommendations

6. Create "Entertaining Guide" Resources

Content to Add: - "Planning Your First Large Gathering" guide - Seasonal entertaining tips - Cultural celebration ideas and accommodations - Furniture arrangement templates by party size - Downloadable space planning tool

7. Address Timeline Anxiety

For Time-Sensitive Buyers: - Installation guarantee with financial penalty if missed - Real-time production and shipping tracking - Proactive communication about any delays - Backup plan options - Rush service clearly priced and offered

Marketing and Positioning Changes

8. Inclusive Marketing Materials

Cultural Competence: - Feature Arab-American, South Asian, Hispanic, African-American, and other diverse families - Showcase cultural celebrations (Eid, Diwali, Quinceañeras, family reunions) - Use multilingual testimonials or case studies - Partner with cultural community centers or organizations

Example Testimonial:

"As a family that values hospitality, we needed a space that could honor our Syrian traditions while withstanding Michigan weather. The S20 Haven has hosted five Ramadan iftars, three Eids, and countless Sunday family gatherings. It's become the heart of our home." — Hassan & Layla A., Dearborn, MI

9. Large-Gathering Specialization

Create a Category: - "Spaces for Large Gatherings" or "Entertainment Spaces" - Filter products by guest capacity - Show party size recommendations upfront - Highlight relevant features (covered space, durability, size)

10. Weather and Climate Information

Regional Customization: - "Perfect for Michigan Seasons" messaging for cold-climate buyers - "Installation possible year-round in [region]" - Weather-specific features highlighted by location - Seasonal preparation guides

Technical Website Improvements

11. Interactive Configuration Tool

Enhanced "Configure Yours" Feature: - Drag-and-drop furniture placement - Guest count slider that shows space utilization - Visual capacity indicator (comfortable vs. crowded) - Save and share configurations - Email layouts to spouse/family for decision-making

12. FAQ Section Addressing Common Concerns

Specific to Large Gatherings: - "How many people can I seat for dinner?" - "Can I add more space later?" - "What furniture do you recommend?" - "How do I accommodate both dining and lounging?" - "Is the space appropriate for children and elderly?"

Specific to Timeline: - "How long from order to installation?" - "Can I get rush service?" - "What affects installation timing?" - "Do weather delays affect your timeline?"

Specific to Cultural Considerations: - "Can I create semi-private zones?" - "What lighting options work for evening events?" - "How do I incorporate cultural decorations?" - "Is the space appropriate for removing shoes (as in Muslim households)?"

Specific Recommendations for the Al-Rahman's Scenario

What a Sales Consultant Should Have Told Them

Ideal Consultation Experience:

"Hassan and Layla, thank you for considering Outer Spaces for your Eid celebration. I've worked with several families in Dearborn for similar large gathering needs, so I understand exactly what you're looking for.

Capacity Assessment: For 25-30 guests, I recommend the S20 Haven (12'x20'). Here's how it breaks down: - For a seated iftar, you can comfortably fit a 10-foot dining table seating 14-16 people, plus 2-3 smaller round cocktail tables for additional guests. - Alternatively, you can do a buffet-style setup with 20-25 folding chairs arranged in clusters, allowing better flow. - For standing reception during Eid, the space easily accommodates 28-30 adults with room to move.

I can send you a few layout diagrams that other clients have used successfully.

Timeline for Eid: Good news—we're currently at a 7-week lead time for Michigan installations, which gives you a buffer before early December. Our installation team works in cold weather (as long as ground isn't frozen solid), but let's target late November installation to be safe. I'll add a note to prioritize your project given the Eid deadline.

Cultural Considerations: Many of our Arab-American clients add: - String lighting for evening ambiance (essential for Ramadan) - Outdoor heaters for early spring events (Michigan Eid weather can be chilly) - Privacy screens on one side for gender-separated gatherings if needed - Durable outdoor rugs that define dining vs. mingling zones

I can connect you with our furniture partner who has experience with iftar setups and can provide rental or purchase options.

Next Steps: Let's schedule a virtual consultation where I'll show you 3D renderings of your specific property with the S20 Haven in place. I'll also share photos from the Ibrahim family's installation in Ann Arbor—they host similar-sized gatherings and have been thrilled.

Would Thursday work for a 30-minute video call?"

Why This Approach Would Convert the Sale

  1. Demonstrates Cultural Competence: Mentions Dearborn, iftar, Eid naturally—shows they understand the customer
  2. Provides Specific Capacity Data: Answers the #1 question with concrete numbers
  3. Addresses Timeline Proactively: Confirms feasibility and builds in buffer
  4. Offers Relatable Proof: References similar local customer
  5. Suggests Complementary Solutions: Lighting, heating, furniture—shows full-service thinking
  6. Creates Clear Next Step: Easy commitment to video call, not immediate purchase pressure

Result: Purchase likelihood would increase from 45% to 85-90%

Psychological Factors in the Decision

Trust and Confidence

Hassan's Perspective: "In surgery, uncertainty kills patients. In purchasing, uncertainty kills deals. This company has given me too much uncertainty. I don't doubt their product quality—the materials and warranty speak to that. But I doubt whether they understand MY needs. I doubt whether they can meet MY timeline. I doubt whether they've thought about MY community.

"For $34,000, I need more than a beautiful product. I need a partner who gets it."

Layla's Perspective: "I'm the one who will be standing in this space, welcoming guests, ensuring everyone's comfortable. If I can't envision it working, I can't buy it. And right now, all I can envision is a pretty empty deck. I need someone to paint the picture for me—with my family in it."

Cultural Recognition

The absence of cultural diversity in marketing materials sent an unintentional but clear message: "This product wasn't designed with you in mind."

Impact: - Reduces emotional connection to brand - Raises concerns about company's understanding of specific needs - Creates hesitation about whether product actually suits their lifestyle - Suggests company may not be responsive to culturally-specific concerns

Layla's Feeling: "I'm tired of aspirational lifestyle brands that only show one type of family. Show me families that look like mine. Show me celebrations that honor different traditions. Make me feel like I'm not an afterthought—make me feel like you WANT my business."

Risk Aversion in High-Stakes Purchases

This isn't just a $34,000 purchase—it's: - A multi-generational gathering space for decades - The venue for important religious and cultural celebrations - A reflection of their hospitality and success - A time-sensitive project with no backup plan

Hassan's Risk Calculation: "If I buy and it's wrong—too small, wrong timing, doesn't meet needs—I've failed my family during one of our most important celebrations. That's unacceptable. I'd rather buy from a company that might cost more but gives me certainty."

Competitive Considerations

What Would Make Them Consider Alternatives

  1. Custom Deck Builders:
  2. Pro: Fully customized to exact specifications
  3. Con: Long timeline (4-6 months typical)
  4. Con: Higher cost

  5. Con: Construction disruption

  6. Big Box Retail (Lowe's/Home Depot Pergola Kits):

  7. Pro: Immediate availability
  8. Pro: Lower cost ($5,000-$15,000)
  9. Con: Lower quality, less durability
  10. Con: DIY or contractor coordination required

  11. Con: Less sophisticated aesthetic

  12. Event Tent Rental:

  13. Pro: Available on-demand
  14. Pro: Flexible sizing
  15. Con: Not permanent solution
  16. Con: Setup/takedown for each event

  17. Con: Less elegant aesthetic

  18. Premium Outdoor Living Companies (Trex, TimberTech, Struxure):

  19. Pro: Established brands with proven track records
  20. Pro: May have local dealers/installers
  21. Con: Similar or higher pricing
  22. Con: May still have long lead times

Outer Spaces' Competitive Advantages (If Communicated Better)

  1. Speed: One-day installation truly sets them apart
  2. Turnkey: Includes permits, design, materials, installation
  3. Quality: Premium materials with 25-year warranty
  4. Simplicity: Less coordination hassle than custom builds
  5. Modern Design: More sophisticated than big box alternatives

The Problem: These advantages aren't leveraged effectively for time-sensitive, large-gathering customers like the Al-Rahmans.

Final Verdict: Purchase Decision

Conditional No (45% Likelihood)

What the Al-Rahmans Will Actually Do:

  1. Submit contact form on website with detailed questions about:
  2. Michigan availability
  3. Timeline for Eid deadline
  4. Capacity for 25-30 people

  5. Large gathering furniture recommendations

  6. Wait 24-48 hours for response

  7. If no response or inadequate response: Likelihood drops to 20%
  8. If helpful, detailed response: Likelihood increases to 75%

  9. If offered consultation call: Likelihood increases to 85%

  10. Parallel Shopping:

  11. Contact 2-3 local deck/pergola companies for quotes
  12. Visit Lowe's/Home Depot to see physical options
  13. Research Struxure or similar premium alternatives

  14. Ask friends/family in Dearborn community for recommendations

  15. Decision Timeline:

  16. Need decision within 2 weeks to meet Eid timeline
  17. If Outer Spaces doesn't respond quickly, will move on
  18. High-intent buyers with urgent timeline and full budget
  19. This is a deal waiting to be closed—or lost

If They Don't Buy Outer Spaces

Most Likely Alternative: Hire local custom deck builder recommended by friend, even if it costs $40,000-$45,000 and takes 3-4 months. The personal relationship and customization certainty outweigh cost and time disadvantages.

Second Most Likely: Purchase high-end pergola kit from Struxure through local dealer, installed on existing patio. Not ideal, but known entity with proven local service.

Least Likely: Wait until after Eid and revisit decision without timeline pressure. Would explore Outer Spaces more thoroughly with 6-month lead time for next summer.

Summary: What Was Lost and What Could Be Gained

What Outer Spaces Lost

A $34,000 sale to highly qualified buyers who: - Have the exact budget for the premium product - Have an urgent timeline (more tolerant of premium pricing) - Have ongoing entertaining needs (potential for referrals) - Are part of a large, affluent Arab-American community in Dearborn - Are likely to share success stories with professional network - May need additional products for vacation home or relatives

Lifetime Customer Value: $50,000-$75,000 (including referrals and future purchases)

What They Could Gain

By implementing the recommendations in this report, Outer Spaces could: - Convert this specific customer (45% to 90% likelihood) - Better serve the large-gathering market segment - Appeal to culturally-diverse affluent communities - Reduce sales friction for time-sensitive buyers - Increase average order value through accessories - Generate powerful testimonials and case studies - Expand into underserved cultural communities

The Core Issue

Outer Spaces has a premium product at a fair price point, but they're failing to communicate how it serves specific, high-value customer needs.

For Hassan and Layla Al-Rahman—and customers like them—the product might be perfect. But "might be" isn't good enough for a $34,000 purchase with a non-negotiable deadline.

They need certainty. They need understanding. They need partnership.

Right now, they're getting beautiful marketing but insufficient information.

The company that gives them what they need—even if it's more expensive or takes longer—will win their business.

Appendix: Customer Quotes

On Capacity Concerns

Layla: "I'm looking at 240 square feet and trying to do the math in my head. Our current patio is about 200 square feet and it feels cramped with 15 people. How is 240 going to fit 30? Unless... maybe our patio just has poor layout? I don't know. I wish they'd just tell me."

Hassan: "In the hospital, we have very specific square footage requirements per patient for safety and comfort. Why doesn't the outdoor living industry have similar standards? Tell me this space is rated for X people and I'll believe you. Don't make me guess."

On Timeline Anxiety

Layla: "We've been talking about creating a better outdoor space for three years. Now we finally have the budget and the motivation—Eid is coming, we want to host properly. But I'm afraid if we order this, it won't arrive in time. Then we'll be stuck with nothing for our celebration and $34,000 tied up in a product we can't use yet."

Hassan: "I need someone to tell me: 'If you order by October 20th, we guarantee installation by November 30th.' Give me a date I can rely on. Otherwise, this is too risky."

On Cultural Recognition

Layla: "Look, I'm not expecting them to have photos specifically of iftar dinners. But show me a big family gathering. Show me multi-generational celebrations. Show me people who look like they understand that entertaining isn't just four people having cocktails—it's 30 people with kids running around and grandparents sitting comfortably and food everywhere. That's my life."

Hassan: "Dearborn has one of the largest Arab-American populations in the country. We're not a niche market. We're doctors, business owners, professionals with significant purchasing power. Companies that recognize that and speak to us will earn our loyalty. Companies that don't... well, we'll shop elsewhere."

On the Purchase Decision

Hassan: "I want to buy this. The price is right, the quality looks excellent, the modern design is exactly what we want. But I can't pull the trigger without answers to basic questions. It's frustrating because I'm a qualified buyer with money ready to spend."

Layla: "If someone from this company called me tomorrow and walked me through how this would work for our family, showed me examples, gave me a timeline, I'd probably say yes. The product itself isn't the problem. The lack of information is the problem."

Hassan: "Bottom line: We're going to buy something. We need this space. The question is whether it's from Outer Spaces or their competitor. Right now, it's a coin flip. Whoever gives me confidence first wins our business."

Report Conclusion

Hassan and Layla Al-Rahman represent an ideal customer profile for Outer Spaces: high income, strong aesthetic sense, genuine need for the product, full budget available, and urgent timeline making them less price-sensitive. Yet the company is at serious risk of losing this sale due to insufficient information architecture on their website.

The product is likely perfect for them. The website hasn't proven it.

For companies serving the premium outdoor living market—especially those targeting culturally diverse, large-gathering, and time-sensitive customers—this simulation reveals critical gaps between having an excellent product and effectively selling it to qualified buyers.

The path from 45% to 90% purchase likelihood is clear: 1. Proactive consultation 2. Capacity clarity 3. Timeline certainty 4. Cultural competence 5. Proof points and examples

Without these elements, Outer Spaces risks losing not just this sale, but an entire market segment of affluent, community-oriented families who gather, celebrate, and share recommendations within tight-knit networks.

Recommendation: Outer Spaces should treat this customer profile as a priority segment and implement targeted improvements within 30 days to capture Q4 holiday/cultural celebration demand.

Report compiled October 11, 2025 Customer Simulation: Hassan & Layla Al-Rahman Dearborn, Michigan

For questions about this simulation or to discuss implementation of recommendations, contact the research team.