Our Story
Our story begins during a challenging time—the aftermath of the Financial Crisis in 2009. Rod, our owner and founder, faced the uncertainty of being jobless. Determined to turn adversity into opportunity, he swiftly took action. Within days, Rod had articles of incorporation drafted with the state of North Carolina, secured loans, and initiated the process to establish his own furniture store.
In April 2009, Unfinished Furniture of Wilmington proudly opened its doors. With Rod and one staff member, Larry, the journey began. They poured their hearts into the business, working tirelessly through long hours and seven-day weeks. Their dedication paid off as the store steadily grew, both locally and online, laying the foundation for what UFOW is today.
Fast forward to 2011, and the team expanded to include Stella, Rod’s beloved dog, who became not just a mascot but also our PR manager—because who could resist her charm?
Over the years, our business has weathered storms, including the recent challenges brought by the COVID-19 Pandemic. Despite the uncertainties, our store experienced a surge in sales as people sought to transform their living spaces during quarantine.
At UFOW, we believe in growing not just as a business but as a work family. This growth ensures that we uphold our commitment to delivering top-notch customer service promptly. From the moment you step into our store or visit us online, our goal is to exceed your expectations. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to assist you in achieving your desired look in the most budget-friendly manner possible.
We take pride in offering not just furniture but an exceptional shopping experience. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we’re here to make your furniture journey enjoyable and fulfilling.
Thank you for being a part of our story. Let’s create beautiful spaces together!
Rod
Founder & Owner
Larry
Sales & Internal Operations Manager
Two years later, in January of 2011, the team of two became a team of three when Stella, Rod’s beloved dog, became our PR manager and mascot
Stella
Public Relations Manager
Business continued to grow over the next few years. In the midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic, the store's sales boomed with quarantined folks eager to redecorate their homes.
The UFOW work family continues to grow as well so that we can continue to offer what everyone deserves...top notch customer service in a timely manner.
Lauren
Lauren Abernathy is a senior at UNCW, graduating in May of 2023. She came to us in July of 2022 with the desire to get away from a desk job and be out on the floor selling and communicating with customers. Having never been in the industry, she has excelled with learning the e-commerce side as well as learning about every different piece of furniture we have and the finishing process as well. When she is not with her work family, she spends her time with her 11-month-old puppy “Penny”, who is pictured above.
Daniel
From day one, our commitment has been to deliver customers an exceptional shopping experience. Going above and beyond to surpass your expectations is our mantra, and we take pride in offering exceptional customer service. Our dedicated team is always at your service, working tirelessly to help you achieve the desired look in the most cost-effective way possible.