Southeastern Tile Connection

How We Are Accommodating Our Customers during the Coronavirus Outbreak

Updated May 8, 2020

We’re carefully reopening our doors on May 18.

The last several weeks have been a challenge for our industry, our community, and our nation. We hope that you and your family are remaining healthy, safe, and prosperous. In light of new guidelines released by the State of North Carolina, we are able to make some changes to our policies.

Beginning Monday, May 18th, we will again be welcoming walk-in customers into our showroom. We still encourage our customers to make an appointment with a designer so that they can receive the highest level of service possible. To comply with State guidelines, we will continue certain practices that we have implemented over the last several weeks. Our staff will continue to maintain a high level of cleanliness frequently wiping down surfaces with recommended disinfectants. Hand sanitizer will be provided and readily accessible. Our pickup and delivery area will be marked with proper social distancing indicators. Curbside delivery of products will still be provided as requested.

We thank you for your continued support. As we move through this situation we look forward to a healthy and prosperous future. Please feel free to reach out to any of our staff if we can help accommodate any special needs or concerns that may arise.

Previous update from April 9:

Temporary Policy Changes

Special Order Items

            Many of our suppliers are beginning to change their policies regarding materials ordered. They are no longer allowing changes or cancellations once orders are placed, are requiring upfront payment before orders ship, and are no longer accepting returns. Because of this, we will now require 100% deposits on all special-order items for COD customers. Once an order has been placed and deposits received, we cannot accept changes, cancellations or returns on those orders.

Pick-up

            Customers picking up at Customer Service should call ahead when they are coming to pick up an order. If the order is COD, we require any outstanding payments to be made over the phone prior to pick up. Once you arrive to pick up your material, please remain in your vehicle and call 910-799-5565, option 2, and we will deliver to you.

Returns

            We have always been very flexible with our return policy. We understand that situations sometimes change on jobs, and we try to be accommodating. However, due to the increased limitations on our ability to return material to our suppliers, as well as the added interactions required to complete these transactions, we temporarily will not be accepting any returns. This includes special order AND stock material.

The challenges we are facing as an industry and as a community are unprecedented.

Southeastern Tile remains committed to providing the highest level of service and products possible. Thank you for your continued loyalty as we all adapt to the challenges as they present themselves.          

March 31, 2020

In order to maintain compliance with State and Local directives, Southeastern Tile is implementing new procedures regarding the pick up of orders. These policies will go into effect beginning Tuesday, March 31st at 7:30 am.

  1. Please call or email ahead to place orders when possible.
  2. When you arrive to pick up your order, follow the posted signs to the customer pickup area located at the far end of the parking lot.
  3. If payment is required, we will take payment over the phone.
  4. Remain in your vehicle and a member of our staff will load your material.

Our customer service area will be limited to one person or crew at a time.

These measures are temporary and will be rescinded as soon as possible. We appreciate your patience as we continue to negotiate these uncertain times. The building industry is vital to our economic security. Southeastern Tile remains committed to providing the services and products needed to the trades to support this vital component of our economic infrastructure.

Please note that as of March 25, our showroom is appointment-only. To schedule your appointment, please follow this link.

Stay safe and healthy,

Sharon, Mike and the entire Southeastern Tile crew.

March 25, 2020

To our valued customers,

As I am sure you are aware, the situation involving the COVID-19 pandemic has caused major disruptions to many business sectors. Throughout the crisis, Southeastern Tile has done everything possible to continue providing service to our customers with limited disruption. We are striving to maintain a level of operations adequate to provide products and services to the building industry and homeowners in our community.

In order to continue to effectively serve our community, we are implementing changes to our normal showroom operations. Effective beginning Friday, March 27, our showroom will be by appointment only. We will also request that visitors to our showroom answer a few short screening questions to help to determine the level of risk in spreading the COVID-19 virus. Our showroom staff will do everything possible to accommodate customers who are not able to visit our showroom in person. This includes providing samples delivered curbside and video conferencing.

Request a Consultation


Our pickup and delivery operations will continue as normal. We ask that if you feel you have been exposed to COVID-19 or show any signs or symptoms of the virus to please observe proper self-isolation in accordance with WHO and CDC recommendations.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions regarding this policy. Southeastern Tile is committed to continuing to provide the highest level of service during these trying times.

Stay safe and healthy!

Mike Nichols
Vice President
Southeastern Tile Connection

Related Articles

How To Select The Right Tile For Your Project

How To Select The Right Tile For Your Project

Whether you are redesigning a room in your home now or are thinking about it in the future it's important to choose the right tile when the time comes. Tile comes in an infinite number of colors, shapes, styles, and textures so when you start your search for the tile...

2019 Summer Tile Trends

2019 Summer Tile Trends

It’s 2019 and if you’re still picking up bland tiles from lowes or home depot you’re not doing you or your home justice. Remodeling your home to be up-to-date with current trends can not only make your home more lively to live in. The fact is, it can also increase...

George Parent

General Manager

George is the General Manager of the Mills River, NC location. Having worked in the commercial tile industry for more than 30 years, he has acquired a vast knowledge of tile material production, sales, project management, and more. He is excited to meet various installers and suppliers and loves sharing the industry tips and tricks he has picked up throughout his career. George’s main priority is always to ensure that he can provide his customers with top quality products and dedicated support throughout the entirety of his customers’ projects.

After growing up in New England, serving in the US Marines for 8 years, and raising his family in Virginia for 28 years, George is excited to explore the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain region of North Carolina.

In his free time, George enjoys skiing, golfing, and spending time with his family and his dog, Penelope.

This will close in 0 seconds

Sara Parent

Outside Sales Manager

Sarah is an accomplished Outside Sales Manager based in Mills River, NC, with a distinguished 7-year tenure in the commercial tile industry. Her dynamic career showcases a fervent dedication to engaging with architects, designers, general contractors/builders, and dealers, offering unparalleled assistance in project specifications.

Demonstrating an in-depth knowledge of products, materials, and specification selection, Sarah excels in managing projects of varying scales, spanning from small residential to multi-family and large-scale commercial endeavors.

With over three decades of prior experience in management and sales, Sarah brings invaluable skills in drive, organization, and project execution efficiency to her current role. Her multifaceted expertise ensures a seamless and effective approach to project management.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Sarah is an avid traveler, domestically and internationally, and finds joy in culinary pursuits such as cooking and baking. Above all, she cherishes quality time spent with family and friends.

This will close in 0 seconds

Leland Decker

Business Development

An alumnus of NCSU, with a bachelor’s degree in interior architecture, I bring more than 30 years of experience in the design industry. My career began at a large commercial firm in Manhattan, and I quickly realized my passion was in residential design. In 2000 I relocated to Washington, DC and started designing in the high-end/luxury market. A few years later I made the move into freelancing full scale design and project management. During this time, I had the pleasure of working on the renovation and restoration of the Hollerith House, built in 1911, in Georgetown.

In 2017, I returned to North Carolina for a lifestyle change, and in February 2023, I joined Southeastern Tile Connection Inc. during its expansion into the western NC market. My role has been focused on developing relationships and establishing our presence within the communities of western NC.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to nurture lasting relationships with industry professionals, bridging the gap between their needs and success. Community involvement is a priority, and I am committed to contributing to the growth and vibrancy of Southeastern Tile Connection Inc. as we navigate the evolving landscape of design.

This will close in 0 seconds

Susan Moxley

Showroom Manager

Susan has been working at the Southeastern Tile Durham location since opening day, but her experience in the industry spans over a decade. Susan began her design journey back in 2007 when landing her first tile job and quickly discovered her natural talent for it. Encouraged by her mom, she decided to pursue further education in interior design, earning my AAS degree in 2013. Since then, Susan has been fully immersed in the world of tile. When working with customers, her approach is all about effective listening and bringing their vision to life. She enjoys it when clients aren't afraid to embrace bold colors and patterns. It's also refreshing to work with different clients every day, as it keeps things interesting and diverse. As for her design style, she leans towards the eclectic side. If Susan sees something she likes, she can always find a way to make it work. Susan has attended many trade shows, always eager to discover the latest and most exciting trends in the industry. It's a great way to stay inspired and keep my designs fresh. Outside of work, I'm a proud mom to two beautiful girls and I enjoy spending quality time with them.

This will close in 0 seconds

Erica Pippin

Design Consultant

Erica is a Design Consultant who loves collaborating with designers, builders, and residential customers. Her portfolio includes residential, commercial, and collaborative projects. Erica holds a Bachelor's degree in Interior Design from East Carolina University and an Associate's degree in Design from Wake Tech. Her passion lies in working with people and creating a personalized experience that matches their unique style and design needs. With a decade of experience in the industry, Erica stays current with the latest design trends and can accommodate various design preferences. Whether you're aiming for a modern, contemporary look or prefer a more traditional approach, she is here to help you achieve your design goals. Pick out something you love, and she can help you build a beautiful room around it that works for your project requirements. Erica is a Raleigh native who enjoys solving puzzles, exploring new places, and cherishing quality time with her family, friends, and adorable dog, Chachi. Erica looks forward to working with you soon!

“When it comes to my own style, I embrace an eclectic approach with neutral undertones, adding layers of texture and color.”

This will close in 0 seconds

Crissy Brown

Design Consultant

My Name is Crissy. I am a native of Durham and have recently returned to my favorite region after living in Georgia for many years.

For the past 25 years, I have been providing assistance to homeowners, designers, architects, and contractors at various levels.

I enjoy meeting with contractors and homeowners about their design projects. My passion lies in transforming bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and outdoor spaces to meet my clients' needs.

Instead of making decisions for you, I'll work closely with you to create a design plan that aligns with your vision, timeline, and budget.

"My philosophy is that the beauty of design has the power to transform and enhance our lives."

Among the many design possibilities, you might need some inspiration and expert advice. Whether you're building a new home or transforming your current living space, I will assist you to make the process smooth. Let's embark on the journey together!

Over the years, I have found joy in receiving calls from clients who are pleased with my results.

In my free time, I enjoy painting, sewing, baking, traveling, and spending time with my children, Kaylee, Zach, and my fur-child, Nylah.

This will close in 0 seconds

Michelle D Edwards

Showroom Manager / Design Consultant

Michelle has been a design consultant with Southeastern Tile Connection since 2005. She graduated from the University of North Carolina with a BA in Arts. Michelle works closely with designers, builders, and homeowners throughout the entire selection process. Michelle stives to listen to her clients and guide them in a way that meets their individual needs. She helps her clients create spaces that they love and can live with over time. Michelle’s style is timeless and classic. She loves natural stone tile as well as the prints and patterned tiles done on stone and terra-cotta.

“With tile, sometimes less is more. I don’t think you need to do too much ‘decorating’ with tile. Clean, simple, classic looks that you can decorate around will stand the test of time.”

This will close in 0 seconds

Lisa Townsend

Design Consultant

Lisa has been a Design Consultant with Southeastern Tile Connection since 2019. She came to us with over 30 years of experience in the design field – 10 of those in the tile industry. Lisa finds inspiration in nature and all its beauty. Using nature as her guide, she enjoys using natural, timeless bases with subtle pops of color, texture, and patterning. She believes good design can take time, so clear communication between the designer and client is the key to turning their ideas into reality. Her ultimate goal is to help create beautiful, functional spaces that fit seamlessly into her clients’ lifestyle.

When she’s not in the showroom, you may find Lisa repurposing furniture, hiking trails or spending time at the beach with family.

This will close in 0 seconds

Alexia Porzio

Design Consultant

Alexia has been a design consultant since 2018. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of New Hampshire. Alexia likes to say this profession found her after going into Southeastern Tile regularly to design various spaces within her own home. Now, she works to help others design their dream spaces. Throughout the selection process, she will work closely with clients, builders, and designers to create personalized spaces. She strives to listen to her client’s ideas and offers guidance and design layout suggestions that bring a collaboration of ideas and visions to life. She believes classic styles always withstand the test of time and by adding elements of color, texture or pattern to the space, the design will elevate to a custom look which makes it unique and your own. Simplicity is always a great starting point!

“Be faithful to your own taste, because nothing you really like is ever out of style” -Billy Baldwin

This will close in 0 seconds