Casual Carpet opens on Coastal Highway
When Jamie and Karen Vitella decided to relocate their flooring business to Delaware last year, their decision was made primarily to be closer to Jamie's family and to enroll their young children in better schools.
In what now seems like a twist of fate and a validation of their decision, the Vitellas sold their business and home in Seaside Heights, N.J., just months months before Hurricane Sandy collapsed the store and pulled the rug out from under their community.
"We have so many friends in New Jersey, and they are displaced," Jamie said. "It's really sad,"
After opening Casual Carpet and Flooring on Route 1 in December, the couple said they are laying a strong foundation to raise their young family and build their business – from the ground up.
With carpeting, hardwood, laminate and vinyl flooring available, Jamie said he brought his skills across the bay to open a friendly store in a no-pressure sales environment where he can promise customers the best prices after installation – and still support his family.
"Its just a kicked-back atmosphere. Come and see me, get a quote. I will beat those prices of big-box stores," Jamie sad. "It's not high-pressure, that's why I named it Casual Carpet. No pressure, you get an education because an educated customer is my best customer."
The low-key atmosphere resonates through the shopping center where Casual Carpet and Flooring has opened, next to Surf Bagel, owned by Jamie's brothers.
Surf Bagel owner Dave Vitella can sometimes be spotted checking in with his brother at Casual Carpet and is always willing to vouch for the quality of his wares.
"The carpeting he put in my house has been incredible," Dave said. "It's a short shag and has stood up to three dogs, two cats and three kids."
With an owner always on the premises, Karen said, the company works to have open communications and teach about their products to make the shopping experience comfortable for their clientele.
"We just really care. We take care of whatever we need to do to make things right," she said. "We are flooring professionals, that's what we do is flooring."
For more information and upcoming specials, contact Casual Carpet and Flooring at 302-703-2272.
