My initial business with Friedman’s started when I remodeled by kitchen and downstairs bathroom a few years back. I met and contracted Delia Perez who helped me layout a complete redesign of my kitchen. I loved her ideas but ended up using a custom cabinet maker since I felt my requirements would not be completely satisfied with semi-custom cabinets that were offered by Friedman’s.
When it came to the appliances, I dealt with Mike Garay. He was very knowledgeable and personable. I like him very much at the time and purchased $25K worth of appliances and accessories based on his recommendation (Sub Zero refrigerator, Thermador, etc.).
Most recently, I just finished my complete remodel of my other two bathrooms. I again consulted with Mike and ended up purchasing $35K of parts (Wetstyle tubs, Graff faucets, etc.). I put a lot of confidence in Mike but in the end, I was very disappointed in the follow through of my order. Specifically, my frustration is from the tubs and sinks I ordered from Wetstyle. In my selection process, to help make my decision, I consulted with the Wetstyle directly. I knew the lead time was 4 weeks (manufacture and shipping). I placed my order and paid in full, 5 weeks before my need date. From some confusion with the order (Mike blamed the US distributor), they were not placed until my actual need date. To this date, I can’t believe my order should have been delayed 5 weeks if Mike stayed on top of it. He did not give me any warning, which leads me to believe, he did not follow through. I then personally got involved and pleaded with Westyle to put a rush on my order. In the end, my construction was held up 3 weeks where everything had to stop. In addition, Mike promised that they would deliver the parts the day after they arrived at Friedman’s. He was going to make a special call to the owner to make this happen since the normal process was to schedule delivery after the actual receipt of the parts which would add another day. Based on this, I had scheduled construction to resume on the promised delivery date. The delivery did not happen until the day after, so basically, it followed the normal process. After all this, I would have hoped for an apology call or at least a follow up to make sure all was OK and most important, a thank you.
After giving over $60K of business, I left with a very bad experience. I don’t think I will be ordering any more parts from Friedman’s or be recommending them as a good source for kitchen and bath items as I have been doing.