2020 Title Sponsor: Tisdel Distributing - Joceyln Privett
Jocelyn Privett, Showroom Manager, Tisdel Distributing
What does your firm do?
We are the exclusive distributor resource showroom for Sub-Zero, Wolf, Asko, Faber, Best and Scotsman in the Midwest and Midsouth. We are the direct link between the manufacturer and more than 100 dealer showrooms. We are passionate about excellence and bring a depth of knowledge to our industry that is surpassed by none.
How did you get into this field?
I was in custom residential cabinetry for 16 years prior to coming to Tisdel. I had used the brands with my clients and enjoyed the support and knowledge that the team brought to our industry, as well as the longevity and customizations that their products provided. When Rufus (my rep) was retiring, he asked me to be his replacement.
How does your firm work with architects?
We have two collaborators at Tisdel that work with architects and their clients. On a business level, Amanda Cook engages the architects and reviews the needs of their projects. When a client wants to come into the showroom for a tour and product selection, I meet with them. On the education front, we provide CEU opportunities and soon we will have the largest showroom within this region that architects can bring their clients to for an immersive experience.
How has the pandemic impacted your company’s work?
While the showroom was closed to in-person visits for some time, we have now been able to reach out to clients through Zoom consultations. This has broadened our capabilities in our expansive region to give distanced customers the same enrichment that Cincinnatians receive.
Who or what inspires you?
People with both drive and compassion inspire me. Years ago, I began to admire Elon Musk for his commitment to drive and innovation. Not only through Tesla but Space-X, as well. He pushes past his failures to create a bold vision and is never afraid to announce it to the masses, as crazy as his ideas may first seem.
What is your favorite building and why?
I don’t have just one favorite building but due to my love of organic elements and being a detail-focused person, my favorite architect is Louis Sullivan. Interning in Chicago, I got to walk by much of his work in my time there.
When you’re not working (and we’re not in a pandemic,) what do you love to do?
I am a creative nature-lover at heart. When I am not working, I enjoy being outdoors first and foremost. We love going on nature walks with our two kids or for a bike ride while I run with our pandemic-adopted aussie/coonhound mix.
What is your favorite pandemic-safe activity (aka what keeps you sane during COVID chaos)?
During Covid, I have taken up drawing and art again. Mainly re-invigorating my fondness for pastels after finding my discontinued Grumbacher favorites for sale on Ebay (as the stores were all closed). I have also newly expressed my love for graphic design and typography by hand-illustrating inspirational posters for friends and family.
Tisdel Distributing is a longtime supporter of AIA Cincinnati, beginning as a CRANawards sponsor before becoming one of our first Title Sponsors. Learn more at tisdeldistributing.com.