The People Behind the Product

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

Being able to work freely across various cross-functional teams.

Name an accomplishment that you are proud of.

My daughter graduating from undergrad and getting her degree and now is currently enrolled in a masters program.

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

Photography and videography. I wrote 2 stage plays that was performed at the Greensboro Cultural Arts Center that were sold out.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

Love the product but love the people more.

What led you to this career?

I started working in my grandfather's woodworking shop at age 10, I fell in love with it and never looked back.

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

I played banjo and upright bass in a bluegrass band in my younger years.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

The people.

Name an accomplishment that you are proud of.

Creating ways to visually share your day to day schedule.

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

Love playing golf.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

This is the first woman-owned company I've worked for and I enjoy that. I feel more respected and appreciated here than I have at other companies.

Tell us about your people (i.e. husband, wife, partner, kids, grandparents, pets, etc.)

I am happily married to my wife, Manda Gunter and we have 2 children, Willo and Zak. We also have 2 dogs, Blue and Zappa. We are a very close family and always enjoy our time together.

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

I have been playing guitar for 10+ years and still learning, but it is easily my favorite hobby.

If you could be your favorite Hightower product, what would it be and why?

The Prism collection, it is very adaptable and impressive, making a statement.

What led you to this career?

I worked in many types of industries, from apparel, warehousing, steel manufacturing, and thanks to a company closure over 10 years ago, I discovered the Furniture Industry. The Furniture Industry is just so much fun and challenging utilizing all my various skills.

Do you collect anything?

To the dismay of my husband it's Plants. Every time I come home with a pot or a plant clipping he sighs. I also take care of our plants in our High Point office lobby!

What do you wish people knew about Hightower?

Great company to work for, love the way management cares about its workers! Easy to communicate with management. Enjoy my coworkers. Never a dull moment at work!!!

Tell us about your people (i.e. husband, wife, partner, kids, grandparents, pets, etc.).

Married to beautiful wife for 18 yrs. 3 beautiful daughters, 7 beautiful grandkids. Latest grandson born Feb. 25, 2023. Love them all. Enjoy spending family time.

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

D.J. and Event Planner. A joy to receive a call 2 states away to D.J. a function! I get these calls all year.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

My favorite thing about working for Hightower is the environment is laid back and the perks the company offers, the benefits, are good also.

Tell us about your people (i.e. husband, wife, partner, kids, grandparents, pets, etc.).

I have two 16 yr old boys and a 20 yr old daughter. My wife works for Atrium Health in Winston-Salem, NC.

What is your favorite movie, tv show or podcast? What do you enjoy about it?

Rocky because he fought for everything he gotten. Nothing was given and he never gave up.

What drew you or led you to Hightower? How did your journey bring you here?

Johnny Waden knew they were looking for a glue/frame-up person to lead their department. He spoke up to get me in here. Thanks Johnny.

If you could be your favorite Hightower product, what would it be and why?

The Flote chair is currently my fave because it is beautiful, and the memory foam feels like a hug.

What is something you are really good at?

I am really good at getting the dance floor started at parties.

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

Fun fact: I can beat any man, woman, or child at air hockey.

If you could be your favorite Hightower product, what would it be and why?

If I could be any product, it would be the Flote Sofa. It has space for everyone, it hugs you and it is just super cool. It's sorta what I strive to be- inviting, comforting and cool.

What is your idea of a perfect day?

My idea of a perfect day is spending time with my partner, Tyler and our cat, DJ. It also involves some sort of activity like hiking or going thrifting for some vintage clothes.

What is your favorite food? Where do you find the best one?

Enchiladas- Specifically my mom's. They are sweet and spicy and are only made that way in my moms home state- Durango, Mexico.

What drew your or led you to Hightower? How did your journey bring you here?

I lived around the corner from the Kansas City office and was always intrigued by what I saw through the huge pictures windows while out walking my dog. The bright and airy space filled with modern furniture called to my design-loving heart, so I went online to see just what Hightower was all about. They happened to be hiring for a Project Manager at the time and well, a decade later, the rest is history! The story of how I came to Hightower continues to be one of my favorite serendipitous moments to date.

What is your idea of a perfect day?

My idea of a perfect day is pretty simple. A mid-70's breezy spring day, nothing on my need-to-do list but endless options on my want-to-do-list, and my favorite people (and furry friend) by my side. Sounds delightful!

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

File this under 'useless non-sense that takes up 80% of my mental capacity': I memorize song lyrics like no other and much to my husband's dismay, rarely stop singing them. All the words to Vanilla Ice's Ice Ice Baby? Yep, I know them and they've been sealed tightly in my brain since the early 90's.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

I love working for Hightower because of the values they share personally align with my own: making an environmental impact, giving back to the community, enriching employee's lives and careers, fostering a diverse workplace, to name a few.

Tell us about your people (i.e. husband, wife, partner, kids, grandparents, pets, etc.)

I met my soon to be husband in NYC where I lived for 4 years, before moving back to my roots of KC. We have a pandemic puppy named, Lulu; we enjoy traveling together (we are getting married in Greece!); exploring new bars, restaurants, and coffee shops; and spending time with family and friends.

What is a book you read that you found so interesting, you still reference it today? Why?

Have you read 'Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine?' You wont regret it, if you do. I read it 3 years ago and its a book I wish I could reread for the first time. It's one of the most dynamic books I have read. It's is funny, sad, serious... definitely a must read!

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

The people! My coworkers are what makes it worth coming to work every day.

Tell us about your people (i.e. husband, wife, partner, kids, grandparents, pets, etc.)

I have been married to my wife, Lina, since 2012. We have a mini schnauzer named Gordo who we treat like the spoiled only child that he is.

What is your favorite movie, tv show or podcast? What do you enjoy about it?

My favorite podcast is You're Wrong About. I love being able to reconsider people or events in a new light and usually learn something new.

If you could be your favorite Hightower product, what would it be and why?

If I could be any Hightower product I would be Gimbal because it is just as cute in any size (Jr., Lowback or Highback) and it is multi-functional with the ability to move around if needed but also sit, back, curl up and relax.

What is your idea of a perfect day?

My idea of a perfect day would be to start the day with a nice cup of coffee on a patio with my dogs, whether in my backyard or at a cozy coffee shop, while reading a good book followed by an afternoon with family and friends, whether we are shopping spending time being active outdoors. The day would end with a cozy bonfire and of course s'mores.

What is a book you read that you found so interesting, you still reference it today? Why?

Atomic Habits by James Clear. It has some really great tips on how to create realistic habits in your life to help you accomplish your goals.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

Representing fresh, modern products that make a designer's vision a reality.

What is your idea of a perfect day?

My perfect day is being at the beach and soaking up the sun with my husband and two, sweet, active boys. Having family and friends there would certainly add to the perfection!

Do you collect anything?

My love for travel has resulted in collecting a Christmas ornament from each state/country that I have traveled to and reminiscing all of the good times with a "Travel Tree" each Christmas.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

The camaraderie with my colleagues and how it leads to a solution focused, friendly experience for our clients.

What led you to this career?

The spaces we live our lives in impact how we feel, how we interact with one another and the opportunity to be apart of the creation of these spaces is exciting and what drew me to interior design and then to Hightower.

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

Humor, I love to find a way to laugh, its the best medicine for the soul.

Which Hightower value speaks to you the most? Why?

Be Curious - As the great Walt Whitman once said, "Be curious, not judgmental". I relate most to our value of "Be Curious" because all through my life, there have been people around me who thought they had everything all figured out, so they judged everything, and they judged everyone. I choose to be a curious person, who asks questions and dives into the deep meanings of situations and people. I want to be someone who is constantly learning in order to push the boundaries of what is currently possible.

What is something you are really good at?

I have been a guitar player for nearly 20 years and a musician since I was old enough to sit up at the piano. Music is a universal language and can communicate more in a single phrase than a speech of a thousand words.

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

I am a pretty good chef in the kitchen (or rather outdoors on my smoker or griddle)

What drew you or led you to Hightower? How did your journey bring you here?

The ad stated "Challenge the status Quo", I felt like that spoke to me. I like questioning the conventional way of doing things and consider myself a progressive HR professional. Hightower (Natalie) is willing to lead the business in a new way whether it's with sustainability or people, I want to help her succeed.

Tell us about your people (i.e. husband, wife, partner, kids, grandparents, pets, etc.)

I have four children, his, hers and ours. My youngest has an intellectual and development disability and because of her challenges, I also volunteer on the board of The Arc of Greensboro. I want to insure community resources are available to the most vulnerable of our community.

What is a book you read that you found so interesting, you still reference it today? Why?

"Drive" by Daniel Pink. He debunks the theory of needing of motivating people with a carrot on a stick. People are more motivated by autonomy, mastery and purpose.

What drew you or led you to Hightower? How did your journey bring you here?

It's people, even on the website, the candid photos and the calm look they all had, they just looked happy to be here. Another thing is, when I toured the floor it wasn't a regular manufacturing plant, people didn't look stressed, and they seemed to enjoy what they were doing, "In a sense, they belonged".

What is your idea of a perfect day?

Staying home, and spending the day reading a good book.

What is a book you read that you found so interesting, you still reference it today? Why?

Pride and Prejudice, I learned not to judge people at first glance! There is more to people than a first impression can show.

Which Hightower value speaks to you the most? Why?

Act Intentionally

What is your idea of a perfect day?

My foursquare of perfection in my family, friends, food and fun.

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

I'm a developing cut flower grower. I enjoy growing beauty.

Which Hightower value speaks to you the most? Why?

Be Curious. In my role, leading Learning & Engagement, I find this value speaks to my passion and initiatives. Asking questions to better support the growth and development of our great team. Investing in resources to provide opportunities company-wide.

What is your idea of a perfect day?

A crisp but sunny fall day, brunch with friends, snuggles with my dogs, laughs with my partner Brandon, a home-cooked dinner, and a KC Chiefs win.

What is your favorite movie, tv show or podcast? What do you enjoy about it?

My favorite podcast is Smartless. Those guys make me chuckle and it's fun, lighthearted dialogue.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

My favorite thing about working at Hightower is the people and the atmosphere. Speaking for myself no matter how tedious or difficult my job can get, the willingness of my co-workers to help out makes coming to work easier!

Tell us about yourself and your people (i.e. husband, wife, partner, kids, grandparents, pets, etc.).

I am the oldest of 10 siblings (7 girls & 3 boys). I have one son age 42, his name is Marc and I am proud to say he's been on his job for 17 yrs and finally became a supervisor. My significant other Kevin and I have been together for 16 yrs. I went back to school to get a degree in Culinary, have one more yr to go. And I love to Bake!

What is your favorite movie, tv show or podcast? What do you enjoy about it?

The movie "The Holiday" with Cameron Diaz, Jack Black, Kate Winslet & Jude Law. I just loved the entire movie, especially when Kate finally got that sorry guy out of her system! :-)

What is your idea of a perfect day?

To live in the present moment.

What do you wish people knew about Hightower?

The people that own the company care about their employees and offer awesome benefits and pay.

What led you to this career?

I started sewing in high school and made a lot of my own clothes. I sewed nightgowns and robes at a factory for 16 years. I wanted to give upholstery a chance and got that opportunity with Brayton International.

What is your favorite movie, tv show or podcast? What do you enjoy about it?

"While You Were Sleeping." I am a big Sandra Bullock fan. That movie is funny and she can really make you laugh. It's a quirky love story.

Which Hightower value speaks to you the most? Why?

"Be Curious" speaks to me the most because I am a big believer in learning, asking questions, and seeking to understand. If only we were all more curious, the world wouldn't be such a divided place. You never know where the next big idea will come from. The more you seek information from varied sources the more you are equipped to make a difference.

Name an accomplishment that you are proud of.

I am proud of the balance in my life. As a working mom, I have often worried if I give enough attention to my kids, my husband, my job, my community, and myself. Part of my success has been doubling up on activities - Mother-Daughter and Mother-Son book clubs, dinner club with my spouse, walking with friends, travel with friends and family. The result of these efforts, fortunately, has been adult children who want to spend time with me, visits to all 50 states, walking 13 half marathons, reading 5+ books a month, leadership roles on multiple boards, and enjoying my career. It's an ongoing journey, but happy about the progress to date!

What is a book you read that you found so interesting, you still reference it today? Why?

I have read almost 150 versions of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin. The creativity of authors who wonder "What if..." fascinates me. Variations include telling the story from different characters' viewpoints, introducing a minor plot change that results in very different outcomes, or focusing on what happens before or after the original book. By revisiting a beloved story reimagined, I have become more attuned to the impact of choices I make and the perspective of people experiencing the same moment but through different lenses.

If you could be your favorite Hightower product, what would it be and why?

Flote because it is so comfortable and welcoming, yet also sophisticated and quite dynamic depending on the outfit.

Tell us about your people (i.e. husband, wife, partner, kids, grandparents, pets, etc.)

I have a partner named Latif, who is French Algerian and a software engineer - we have 2 pre-schoolers, Mila (n 2017) and Malek (n 2019). We've lived in Seattle since 2016 but I've moved about 12 times and love living in different places and meeting different people -- so who knows where we might live next!

What is your favorite food? Where do you find the best one?

Thai food - specifically Khao Soi! If you come to Seattle, I recommend Pestle Rock!

Which Hightower value speaks to you the most? Why?

Be Curious. You'll grow from what you learn.

What is your idea of a perfect day?

Unscheduled time with no obligations.

What is your favorite food? Where do you find the best one?

Sandwiches. Because there are so many possibilities, there can be many best versions. However, a diagonal cut makes nearly any sandwich tast better.

What do you wish people knew about Hightower?

Hightower is a company who walks the talk. Hightower cares about people, the places people work and the products we sell. A company who provides a culture where you can be who you are, work hard and enjoy a company atmosphere of trust, fairness and a balance of fun!

What led you to this career?

I have been in the Architectural and Design industry for over 25 years - my whole career. While not always in Furniture Sales, I started studying Architecture in college, and found a passion for interiors, spending several years as a Designer and a Workplace Strategist at Gensler. Realizing that the best part of being a Designer was being in the field, meeting new people and helping people discover the best furniture solution for their projects, I turned to Furniture Sales. Prior to joining Hightower, I served as Regional Sales Director for both Knoll and Herman Miller as well as Sales Rep for Teknion. I am a Registered Interior Designer in North Carolina and professional member of IIDA.

What is a book you read that you found so interesting, you still reference it today? Why?

Sheryl Sandberg's book "Lean In" was one of the first books I read when I entered Sales Leadership. What I use is her reference on how to make small changes over time to make bigger impacts later as well as don't just talk, really listen.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

My favorite thing about working at Hightower is the feeling of being appreciated. You can really feel the genuine care and compassion that everyone has here including the owners which is very rare these days. I feel blessed to be a part of this team.

What is your idea of a perfect day?

My perfect day is spent with snacks and game controller with minimal distractions.

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

I love to build computers and just started into programming.

Share an accomplishment you are proud of.

I served in the United States Army National Guard and went to school for carpentry and remodeling.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

The people.

What is your favorite movie, tv show or podcast? What do you enjoy about it?

My fave movie is "Spirited Away".

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

I enjoy the opportunity that we have at Hightower to collaborate and contribute in a variety of different ways throughout the life of a product from initial concept to addressing opportunities throughout production and that the sense of humor and humility that the team has ensures there will be a good deal of laughter throughout the day.

Name an accomplishment that you are proud of.

I'm very proud of the pieces I've been able to help develop throughout my career that have gone on to win awards at Neocon, like Gimbal Jr.

What is your favorite movie, tv show or podcast? What do you enjoy about it?

99% Invisible - I love the stories that Roman Mars tells about items that we encounter everyday, yet may overlook. In delving into the history behind, thought that went into, and function of each item or project, every episode of 99% Invisible is interesting, even the one on shipping containers.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

My favorite thing about working at Hightower is the close family like environment. Hightower does a lot for its employees, more than what many companies do. The overall working experience is great.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

The people.

If you could be your favorite Hightower product, what would it be and why?

If I had to pick a favorite Hightower product it would have to be Flote Lounge. I love the story behind the design and how comfortable it is. It really does feel like you are floating.

What led you to this career?

My love of products and making made Product Design a perfect fit for me. I had never heard of the field before going to college at Appalachian State University, but when I found it I knew immediately that it was what I wanted to do.

What is your favorite movie, tv show or podcast? What do you enjoy about it?

My favorite movie is Bladerunner 2049. The thing I really enjoy about it is how the movie pulls you in with its visual aesthetic and well-curated world. Everything from the fashion to the architecture makes you feel like it is a real place.

If you could be your favorite Hightower product, what would it be and why?

I would be a mockup of a concept. I like the quick raw simple seed of ideas when they just start to make themselves apparent.

What led you to this career?

I like to solve for the physical, emotional, utilitarian, psychological, and existential needs through furniture.

What is a book you read that you found so interesting, you still reference it today? Why?

The Black Swan by Nassim Nicholas Taleb. It changed a lot of things from how I think about stability, exercise, geopolitics, and so on.

Which Hightower value speaks to you the most? Why?

Act Intentionally. We engage with the details and the big-picture ideas to make things better than we find them. By framing our daily tasks with this holistic view, we are encouraged to explore empathy towards co-workers, clients, and the environment.

What led you to this career?

I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in interior design - during a recession when no one was hiring designers. Wanting to stay in the industry, I found a listing for a project management position at Hightower. My favorite part about studying design was being able to use both my analytical and creative skills. In my current role, I research and review data while still seeing projects move from specification to installation and products from sketches to production. I get to be a continual learner, discovering something new every day!

Do you collect anything?

I collect what I consider, with love, tacky souvenirs. For over 20 years, I have picked up a little something from everywhere I have traveled. It could be a thimble, a shot glass, or a silly refrigerator magnet. I don't hunt for anything specific; I know the right souvenir when I see it!

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

Diverse workforce, women owned business.

What is something you are really good at?

I love to play music and write songs on the guitar.

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

I love working on motorcycles and cars.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

The positive and relaxed work environment.

Tell us about your people (i.e. husband, wife, partner, kids, grandparents, pets, etc.)

I'm married with three children. Lindsay, Justin and Natalie. My oldest daughter lives in Wilmington NC and works at a youth crisis center. My son lives in Charlotte, NC where is attending UNCC studying History. And Natalie loves to read and draw. We also have a very spoiled beagle dog named Copper, who's hobbies include chasing squirrels, rabbits & lizards!

What is your favorite movie, tv show or podcast? What do you enjoy about it?

My favorite movie(s) are comedy movies.

Which Hightower value speaks to you the most? Why?

Be Curious! This value has been a constant in my life and career. Asking questions and challenging ideas (mine as well as others) is so necessary in order to improve processes, systems and as a result, the company!

Do you collect anything?

I lived in small apartments in NYC for many years so anything I collected had to be tiny! I collect souvenir pins from every mountain I have skied at - a great memory of skiing as well as some interesting graphic logos.

What is a book you read that you found so interesting, you still reference it today? Why?

"Getting to Yes" by Roger Fisher and William Ury. I go back to it often to remind myself of important aspects of negotiation, especially related to perspectives: "How you see the world depends on where you sit."

Which Hightower value speaks to you the most? Why?

Be Curious : I appreciate working for a company that encourages its employees to be inquisitive, while also gaining knowledge.

What is your idea of a perfect day?

My idea of a perfect day would include my family & friends, beautiful clear blue skies, and an ocean-front beach with volleyball, seashells, and sandcastles.

What is your favorite food? Where do you find the best one?

Kansas City BBQ, baby - too many to list, so just come visit!

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

Co Workers. They are funny and hardworking (makes day go by faster).

What led you to this career?

Started upholstering at my Uncle's shop at 20 years old.

What is your idea of a perfect day?

All days are perfect. (Just bad moments). Always have a good day and handle bad moments.

What do you wish people knew about Hightower?

What a great place to work.

What is something you are really good at?

Playing checkers.

Do you collect anything?

2 dollar bills.

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?

My favorite thing about working at Hightower is that we are treated like family, love working with this amazing company. We are the richest company in town!! Omg!!

Tell us about your people (i.e. husband, wife, partner, kids, grandparents, pets, etc.)

I love my children Jessica and Justin and my granddaughters: Jessica, Alison and Jessica Lyn. :-)

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

Bodybuilding is my passion (I'm a gym rat!)

What drew you to Hightower? How did your journey bring you here?

My dad is an upholstery worker here and he has always said good things about this company. When a job position opened up I decided to apply for it and it was one of the best decisions I've made.

What is your idea of a perfect day?

Mid 80's on a sunny day with light wind laying on the beach listening to some luke combs.

Share with us a hidden hobby or talent.

I've always said I got the passion for playing soccer from my dad and it's one of the many things I'm thankful for. I had the privelege to play in college and it was one of the best experiences ever.

What do you wish people knew about Hightower?

It would be great if everyone out there could be aware of the quality and dedication that gets put into the furniture that we sell. Our products are top-notch.

Tell us about your people (i.e. husband, wife, partner, kids, grandparents, pets, etc.)

I am the mom of 4 boys who make me very proud. I have 2 grandkids and I very much enjoy every minute that I get to spend with them! I have dog who is my protector and a psycho cat who keeps me laughing. I'm originally from New Jersey and have been living in North Carolina for almost 18 years.

Do you collect anything?

I collect way too many things! Crystal shot glasses (with beautiful stems!); ceramic pigs; Norfin Troll dolls and of course...too many Snoopys!

What is your favorite thing about working at Hightower?
Having the ability and trust to try new things and push the boundaries of what has been done before. 

What led you to this career?
I’m an artist, storyteller, and researcher by nature which is the basis of my career in Graphic Design. I also love that it has given me the opportunity to learn about many different industries and perspectives.

Do you collect anything?
I’m a fairly minimalist person, but I tend to be an archivist when it comes to photographs. I’m always looking for new ways to share memories with friends and family outside of social media.