Carpet Girl Sees Herself as Alternative to Big Box Stores

Dianne Grossman said she tried her hand at several different careers before she became The Carpet Girl.

More than 15 years ago, while pursuing her dream of becoming a travel agent, Grossman found herself working in carpet mills where she met her husband.

Though she dabbled in the travel business, corporate recruiting, and child care, Grossman has returned to the flooring industry. The entrepreneur recently opened her flooring studio, The Carpet Girl, at 1 Cornell Parkway in Springfield.

Throughout her different careers, Grossman said she would meet friends at her husband's warehouse and assist them in making flooring decisions. It was then that it occurred to her that perhaps her early career had been the perfect fit. 

"It took about a year to figure out if it was a business or a hobby," Grossman explained. "I set goals and matched them. I've been completely on my own now for eight months."

Grossman, whose studio has an inviting, homey feel complete with a dining room table, said she loves working with people who are fed up with large box stores. 

"I like to think that I've come to save the day," she said. "I reassure them that it (selecting flooring) doesn't have to be overwhelming."

Many customers come to Grossman when they are at their wits' end, she said, and whether they've experienced a disaster such as a flood or an overflowing toilet or simply want to redecorate, from measuring to installation, she is ready to assist.

By pre-qualifying customers over the phone, Grossman said she can determine exactly what they're looking for, saving them valuable time.

"I find out about their personality, their budget, the age of their children, do they need a carpet that cleans up easily," she explained. "Flooring is very expensive and we want to make sure what you're getting is the right product for you."

Because she deals with factories directly, she can also save her clients money. Additionally, Grossman said she is happy to point customers in the right direction if they're seeking a service she doesn't provide. 

"People don't know where to turn and I can be that resource," she said. "If someone calls and wants their carpets cleaned, we don't do that, but I will refer them to someone who does.  We're that avenue and we're going to go the extra step."

Grossman said she wants people to have a pleasurable experience at her studio and walk away feeling that "they wanted to buy rather than had to buy."

As a fun summer promotion, The Carpet Girl is hosting an "ugliest bedroom" contest. Bliss Indulgence is rolling out the "softest carpet," Grossman said, perfect for a master bedroom. 

During July and August, folks who feel they have the "ugliest bedroom" can post their photos and share their stories on The Carpet Girl's Facebook page for a chance to win a new bedroom carpet. Winners will be announced at a party at the studio. 

"People buy carpeting for their children's rooms or the family room, but often the master bedroom is the last one you think about," Grossman said. "Hopefully, it'll be a good time for everyone. We're trying to keep flooring cool and fun." 

For more information, call 973-218-1155 or visit The Carpet Girl's website.