What started as a dream is now a reality for a North East carpet fitter who is preparing to open the doors to his first-ever showroom.
After more than a decade in the flooring trade and seven years running his own business, Caleb Grey, owner of Caleb's Carpets, is set to reach what he describes as a "massive milestone" when the new shop opens in Loftus, east Cleveland, within the next two weeks.
Caleb learned the trade alongside his father before striking out on his own, building a loyal customer base through word of mouth and repeat business while holding on to a long-standing ambition of opening his own showroom.
He said: "Opening my first shop feels like a massive milestone. I've worked in flooring since leaving school and I've had my own business for around seven years, so having an actual showroom with my name above the door is something I'm really proud of."
Caleb's Carpets is preparing to open its showroom in Loftus within the next two weeks. (Image: Caleb's Carpets)
Caleb also credits his wife, Beth, with giving him the confidence to take the leap.
He said: "My wife Beth has been a massive part of getting me to this point. Opening a shop was always something I wanted to do, but she gave me the push and confidence to actually go for it and has supported me throughout the whole process."
Caleb chose Loftus for the showroom to keep the business rooted in the community that helped it grow, while creating a space where customers can browse samples and discuss their flooring needs in person.
Transforming the premises into a showroom has involved months of work, from decorating and fitting flooring to installing displays, stock and signage.
The shop before Caleb began renovations to transform it into a showroom. (Image: Caleb's Carpets)
He said: "It's been exciting seeing it gradually come together and starting to look like the showroom I had pictured.
"There's been a lot involved, but seeing everything finally taking shape makes it worth it. I couldn't be more grateful for all the help and support that has gone into making this dream a reality."
Read more
Saltburn family bakery reveals location of fourth shop in latest expansion
Florist 'dreaming' as she opens Redcar shop after years of working from garden
Award-winning barber hoping to inspire the next generation in North Yorkshire
He added: "I'm really grateful to everyone who has supported Caleb's Carpets over the years. A lot of the business has grown through word of mouth and recommendations, and without that support I probably wouldn't be opening a shop now.
"I want the shop to be somewhere people feel comfortable coming into, whether they know exactly what flooring they want or they haven't got a clue and need some help. We'll be able to show people different options and help them find something that works for their home and their budget."
Since revealing plans for the showroom, Caleb has received a stream of supportive messages from customers wishing him well for the next chapter of the business.
The new Caleb's Carpets showroom will be located at 2 Arbroath House, 76 High Street, Loftus, and is expected to open within the next two weeks.
For updates on an official opening day, visit Caleb's Carpets Facebook page.