Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Marc Block. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Marc, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. One of the toughest things about progressing in your career is that there are almost always unexpected problems that come up – problems that you often can’t read about in advance, can’t prepare for, etc. Have you had such and experience and if so, can you tell us the story of one of those unexpected problems you’ve encountered?

One of the biggest challenges in the luxury appliance industry is managing supply chain delays. Because luxury appliances are typically among the last items installed in a kitchen, the delay of even a single critical product can disrupt an entire construction schedule. These setbacks can postpone homeowner move-in dates, delay certificates of occupancy, and create financing complications for all parties involved.

I recently partnered with a custom home builder on a home design project. A built-in refrigerator had been ordered more than 13 months before the homeowner’s anticipated move-in date. Despite the extended lead time, the appliance was still unavailable as the closing date approached, placing the project at risk of delay.

Recognizing the importance of this luxury appliance to the completion of the home, I took ownership of the issue and worked closely with my vendor representative to locate available inventory. Together, we conducted an extensive search throughout the vendor network, including factory inventory and warehouses across the country.

After exhausting multiple options, we successfully located the exact luxury appliance required for the project and coordinated an expedited delivery. The unit arrived, was installed, and became fully operational just two hours before settlement on the house.

By resolving the issue, we prevented a potential costly project delay and ensured the builder could deliver the home as schedule. More importantly, the experience strengthened the trust between the builder and myself. By proactively solving a critical problem under significant time pressure, I helped the builder fulfill his commitment to the homeowner while reinforcing a business relationship that has since led to additional opportunities to work together.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

It all started in Philadelphia when I joined the family business of luxury kitchen and bath design in 1986. Back in the day, my biggest challenge was to create hand drafted floor plans, elevation plans and perspective renderings. HUGE CHALLENGE!!! As I refined my design skills through training and experience, I became the youngest Certified Kitchen Designer in the country (1989) and then Certified Bath Designer (1991). My BEST year, 1997, I earned my Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer/CMKBD. The highest achievement and honor given by the National Kitchen & Bath Association/NKBA.

The next 12 years I was with Expo Design Center….a division of The Home Depot. As a Certified Kitchen Designer, I was featured on the Discovery Channel for a house I co-designed with an Interior Designer. Next I was featured in the Dallas based D Magazine for a major kitchen remodel. As my career progressed, I became the Assistant Store Manager for the Expo Design Center. With my leadership and design skills, I led my team to be the highest producing design team in the division.

My career continued to grow fast and furious! I discovered my passion for luxury appliances while still using my design skills as a CMKBD. Throughout my career, I had the privilege of touring the high end manufacturing facilities of industry leading brands. I was very fortunate to gain firsthand insight into their manufacturing processes, quality standards, and product innovation.

I am currently the Sales Manager for Starpower and Ed Kellum/Son. I am doing what I do BEST and LOVE…creating unique designs and experiences for my clients. Making homeowners dreams come true!

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

When I meet a potential client, my goal is to create the kitchen of his or her dreams. By building a strong relationship throughout the design process and delivering a unique, personalized solution, clients quickly recognize my value. The clients satisfaction often leads to the highest compliment…referrals from family, friends, and colleagues.

In addition to serving homeowners, I developed exceptionally strong relationships with luxury builders and contractors who rely on my products and design services. I continue to build successful partnerships and growing books of business. Furthermore, I am an active member of the Greater Fort Worth Builders Association. In turn, this provides excellent opportunities for networking, collaboration, and staying connected within the building industry.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

A significant portion of my business comes from referrals from previous clients, which I consider one of the highest indicators of client satisfaction. Also, I enjoy repeat business from existing clients. Over time, my clients return to build new homes, vacation homes, and investment properties.

In addition, as an active member of the Greater Fort Worth Builders Association I serve as Chairman of the Education Committee. This leadership role increases my visibility within the building industry, strengthens professional relationships, and keeps me engaged with current trends and best practices.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcblock.cmkbd
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcblock714

Image Credits

photos by Kellie Block | Metals and Magnolias