Opening a new business always comes with its set of challenges, but especially when dealing with a worldwide pandemic and product shortages. The pandemic has also caused many to turn their focus to bettering their homes, making them the perfect place to escape in times when getting away might not always be possible. The staff of Idaho Falls Magazine sat down with Coverings, Flooring & Interiors owner, Delsa Doherty, to learn more about how her business can continue to help homeowners in the process of making their house a home.
IFM: What are some of the differences between what you offer and what other locations offer in the area?
DD: We're a full service store from the aspect that customers can pick everything out right there at our storefront. They can look at cabinet options, countertop options and paint. We also offer installation services.
IFM: What are some things that maybe people don't know about Coverings, Floorings & Interiors?
DD: Surprisingly, a lot of people don't even know we're here! We have been in the covering and lighting industry for over 20 years, though our storefront has only been open for a year and a half. We also offer great pricing. We have everything from basic options to high-end.
IFM: Have you had any issues with getting materials?
DD: We're starting to see longer lead times, but we haven't had a lot of availability issues. I think a lot of that has to do with communication with our suppliers. They see that there's something that they're going to be out of stock on for a while and they let us know. We either order in advance or let our customers know this isn't going to be available for quite some time.
IFM: How did you get started with opening the store?
DD: I actually started at a business in the old Marie Calendar's building, which is over on the corner of Anderson and North Holmes. My husband encouraged me to open my own store 3 years ago. There were just a lot of changes going on, but I decided that now was as good a time as any. So, we bit the bullet. We've got a business partner and his wife involved as well, and we all just decided, “Hey, let's jump in and do this.”
IFM: What are some of the things you're looking forward to in the future?
DD: Well, right now we are actually trying to look for a larger location. Our focus right now is just being able to help more people and have more products to offer them. Right now, our showroom is fairly small. We do have pretty broad product offerings, but it would be great to be able to have more space to be able to bring on additional products that our customers are asking for.
IFM: What are some of the challenges that you've faced with opening?
DD: I think probably the most difficult part is just finding good sellers. It's just hard right now. A lot of our sellers are having a hard time finding helpers and there's not a lot of younger people learning a trade. Other than that, everything else has been wonderful. We’ve been extremely fortunate.
For More Information
Coverings, Floorings & Interiors
3940 Professional Way · Idaho Falls, ID 83402
208-943-5667 · www.coveringsidaho.com
Click here to read more of the August issue of Idaho Falls Magazine.