When you walk into Choices Flooring Nowra, you can immediately feel the warmth and camaraderie that makes it such a special place to work. For many on the team, this isn’t just a job, it’s coming home. Michelle Stokes, one of the Sales Consultants, knows this feeling well. “I’ve known Warwick since he was in primary school as he went to the same school as my daughter. It’s really nice to see that young kid all grown up, and now he’s my boss,” she laughs. “I knew so many of the team before I started, so it’s like coming home. It was an easy transition from where I was to here.” she adds.
The story of Warwick and Charlene, the owners of the business, is one of resilience and grit. They didn’t start with much, just a $5,000 ute and a dream to revive Choices Flooring Nowra. But what they lacked in resources, they made up for with passion and a relentless work ethic. Over the years, they’ve not only built a thriving business but have also grown a family of three children. Warwick and Charlene work side by side with their team, never asking them to do something they wouldn’t do themselves. Their humility and empathy make them approachable leaders who value mutual trust and collaboration.
Joey Tatnell, the company’s primary Measurer and Sales Consultant, has seen this firsthand. “I’ve known Warwick since he was a kid, and now I’ve watched his kids grow up,” says Joey. He’s also known Michelle for over 45 years, making the team feel more like a family than a group of colleagues. “We all get along so well. Charlene and Warwick are exceptionally fair and empathetic. They’ve got a family, we’ve all got families, so family is a big thing here,” Joey adds. Michelle also adds “Charlene and Warwick are very easygoing. You do right by them, and they’ll do right by you.”
This small and close-knit team isn’t just about work; they love to have a laugh, share the load, and embrace the variety of tasks that come with their various roles. Whether it’s consulting with customers, measuring, moving stock in the warehouse or finding a innovative solution to a customer’s problem, the team works shoulder to shoulder, supporting one another through the challenges and celebrating the wins together.
Warwick and Charlene’s leadership style is calm and laid-back, fostering a relaxed work environment that emphasises trust and respect. “They’re just so easygoing,” Michelle notes. “As long as you do your job well, they trust you to handle things. It’s a great balance.” This approach allows the team to feel empowered while maintaining a strong work ethic. Mutual respect and fairness have created an environment where everyone listens and is on the same page.
What started as a small operation with limited resources has grown into a flourishing business, thanks to Warwick and Charlene’s vision, their incredible team, and the family-oriented atmosphere they’ve nurtured. Choices Flooring Nowra isn’t just a place to work, it’s a place to belong.
