Building Success:

Casey Ridley's Journey in Home Organization

Discover how The Designery offers custom cabinetry, countertops, and more, blending local expertise with national buying power.

Listen to Casey Ridley's inspiring story on the latest Good Neighbor Podcast!

• 0:01

  Local Business Spotlight

• 7:43

  Navigating Business Challenges and Personal Passions

• 19:49

  Community Support for Local Businesses

In this captivating episode of the Good Neighbor Podcast, we delve into the inspiring story of Casey Ridley, the founder and president of The Designery. Casey's journey from a pre-med student at the University of Georgia to the helm of a nationwide home organization enterprise is a testament to entrepreneurial spirit and the power of community support. The Designery, which started as a local business in Chattanooga, has now expanded to 27 locations across the United States, offering a comprehensive range of services from cabinetry to countertops.

Casey Ridley's story begins with his time at UGA, where he initially pursued a pre-med track. However, after encountering the challenges of organic chemistry, he realized that medicine was not his true calling. This pivotal moment led him to switch to a business major, where he found his passion for entrepreneurship. Casey's involvement in various entrepreneurial programs and his drive to create something meaningful eventually led him to acquire a salvage company in Chattanooga, which he rebranded as The Designery.

The Designery stands out in the home organization industry by offering a full turnkey solution for kitchens, baths, and closets. Their services encompass cabinetry, flooring, tile, countertops, and accessories, catering to the needs of homeowners, builders, and developers. One of the key aspects that sets The Designery apart is their emphasis on functional and well-organized closets, which Casey believes are essential for enhancing daily life. The company boasts stunning showrooms in Chattanooga, Cleveland, and Calhoun, where customers can explore a variety of products and make informed selections.

A significant portion of the podcast episode is dedicated to debunking common myths about box cabinets. Casey explains that The Designery's advanced manufacturing techniques allow them to offer custom solutions that rival those of small custom shops. By leveraging local expertise and the buying power of a national brand, The Designery delivers high-quality, affordable products that meet the needs of their diverse clientele. This combination of local and national strengths ensures that customers receive exceptional value without compromising on quality.

Throughout the episode, Casey shares valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of running a successful business. He discusses the importance of competition in the industry and encourages listeners to explore all available options to ensure they get the best quality and price points for their projects. Casey also emphasizes the significance of balancing work with personal passions, such as playing tennis and golf, and spending time with family. His commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance is a key factor in his overall success and well-being.

The podcast episode also highlights the importance of supporting local businesses. Scott Howell from the Friends and Neighbors Group makes a compelling case for community engagement and urges listeners to nominate their favorite local spots to be featured on the Good Neighbor Podcast. By shining a spotlight on local businesses, the podcast aims to foster a sense of community and help these enterprises thrive. Casey's story is a perfect example of how a local business can grow into a national success while still maintaining strong community ties.

In the final chapter of the episode, Casey discusses the various ways The Designery gives back to the community. From sponsoring high school events and little league teams to partnering with national organizations like Dr. Carson's foundation and Operation Homefront, The Designery is committed to making a positive impact. Casey's dedication to community values and ethical business practices is evident in every aspect of his work, and he encourages other business owners to reflect on how they can contribute to their communities.

In conclusion, this episode of the Good Neighbor Podcast offers a wealth of inspiration and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and home improvement enthusiasts alike. Casey Ridley's journey from pre-med student to the founder of a successful nationwide business is a powerful reminder that with passion, hard work, and community support, anything is possible. Whether you're interested in home organization, entrepreneurship, or simply supporting local businesses, this episode is a must-listen. Be sure to tune in and discover how you can make a difference in your community while creating functional and beautiful living spaces.