It’s safe to say that 2020 has been very challenging indeed: a collective annus horribilus even. Who knew, that as we welcomed the new decade, we would later face the slings and arrows of a global epidemic and be cast out on, what felt like at the beginning, a turbulent sea of troubles. Although things have, thankfully, got better with the economy cautiously opening back up, there is a feeling we’re not back on old terra firma just yet but we will get there together at some point.
Archway Carpets’ Graham & Darrell Smith
Out of darkness comes the light: lots of different rays of light. One of those is the movement to support local business. We do it ourselves where ever we can and are grateful too when the support comes our way.
As lockdown eased, we did not know what we were coming back to when we re-opened our shop on Church Street in Woodbridge. What we witnessed was old and new customers getting in touch with carpet and flooring enquires. For that, we are very grateful indeed. Thank you.
Continuing this ‘support local’ spirit we thought we would ask Archway Carpets owner, Darrell Smith, which local businesses he’s been supporting. Here are his answers, in alphabetical order.
KeaKreative
Craig thanking Ross Dean for his #maketodaycount wristband on Instagram
KeaKreative graphic design is a creative agency in Martlesham, Woodbridge, Suffolk run by Craig Grew. Craig has been instrumental in Archway Carpets branding because he designed our logo. Darrell has been working with Craig for nearly ten years and will often conduct their meetings over lunch, and maybe a drink, at the King’s Head in Woodbridge.
Leaseasy
The one, the only Derek Rush
Leaseasy will, as their website says, “locate and finance any make or model of car, van or truck at the most competitive rates in the country.” True to their mission statement, they do. Local businessman, Derek Rush owns Leeseasy. Anyone who knows Derek will know that Mr Rush is no wallflower. In fact, he’s the polar opposite. Let’s just say if Derick’s in a crowded room, you will know he’s there. He’s also brilliant and getting great deals and has helped both Archway Carpets with their van and Darrell with his family car.
Leigh Catering
Ruth Leigh, If music be the food of love, play on
Ruth and Nick Leigh run Leigh Catering. Ruth is a regular at local networking group Coastal Net and is affectionally known as Lady Leigh. When not writing the next Times best seller, she makes delicious food for people to enjoy together. Whether it’s a small gathering, a wedding or the Archway Carpets 35th Birthday party, Ruth and Nick are on hand with mouth-watering food from around the world. With a background in hospitality, Darrell, often moonlights for Leigh Catering when needed on larger jobs.
Woodbridge Emporium
Jules outside the Woodbridge Emporium shop in Woodbridge
The Woodbridge Emporium is run and owned by Jules Button. Situated on the Thoroughfare, the Emporium is a treasure trove for books, loose leaf tea and infusions and anything that supports wellbeing and mindfulness. It’s hard to believe it’s under one roof! Darrell buys his books from Jules and has during lockdown donated money to support their Book Hug scheme which provided free books to key workers. And Jules has called on Darrell for carpeting needs both at the shop and at her home.
UK Carpet Care
Rob Reeve of UK Carpet Care with Darrell aka The Carpet Guy
Finally, we have Rob Reeve from UK Carpet Care who starred in a recent episode of Carpet Guy. Apart from being an excellent all-round nice guy, Rob is passionate, and immensely knowledgeable, when it comes to carpet care. He can ensure a carpet, can last years, decades even. So if you genuinely love your carpet then give Rob a call.
That’s it for this month. Thank you and remember to support local.