Jim and I started our business thirty-two years ago, never thinking we would be doing this almost forever. It was a fluke really, because he was between jobs and a neighbor here in Suwanee asked him to complete a sunroom ceramic tile floor project after the contractor walked off the job. At that time salesmen were required to get their hands dirty by learning to set tile in order to understand all aspects of the installation of ceramic tile. He came home with $600 and a bottle of wine, and told me he was going to open a tile company. WHAT??? You have to understand at that time Suwanee was a sleepy town with a brand new elementary school, police station, two waffle houses and a MacDonald’s. The closest grocery store was either in Buford or in Duluth, as was the closest date-night restaurant. I clearly could not see his vision with three children, mortgage and Volvo car payment to take care of. Gone would be the company car and all the perks we had become accustomed to, along with a regular paycheck. Jim had a vision for this company and failure was not an option... so we got to work!
Over the course of 32 years, we have grown from a husband/wife company selling ceramic tile and installation, to one that employs a full team of designers, project managers, subcontractors, customer service personnel, operations and warehouse staff. We’ve expanded our state-of-the-art showroom to include a full section of international ceramic and porcelain tile, natural stone, carpet, hardwood, and granite/marble/quartz countertops, as well as cabinets and accessories. Each person within Hillman Flooring & Design brings their unique experience, insight and passion to bring your vision to reality for both retail and custom builder customers.
So what’s the secret to 32 years in business AND staying married? Jim and I have never lost our faith in God, in each other, and the passion for doing what we love. We are blessed to have a dedicated staff and more than amazing family, and we look forward to a few more years in the flooring business. So the "secret" for us in a nutshell is FAITH, FAMILY, FRIENDS and FREEDOM.
