Today we’d like to introduce you to Ann-Marie Kallio.
Hi Ann-Marie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started with Woodsman Kitchens and Floors 12 years ago in the contract sales division as a customer service representative. At the time, I thought it would be a temporary role while I completed my degree at FSCJ, where I studied Communications and Media. After graduating, however, I found myself wanting to stay and continue growing with the company.
I spent eight years in customer service, supporting our builder partners with their cabinet needs—handling adjustments, repairs, replacements, warranty requests, scheduling, and invoicing. During that time, one of our contract sales team members began training me on 2020, a CAD design program (now Cyncly), in my free time. That experience opened the door for me to expand my skills and envision a future beyond customer service.
After eight years, I was offered the opportunity to move into our retail sales division as a designer. It was something I had been working toward and aspiring to since deciding to build my career with the company after graduation. I wanted to take my industry knowledge and apply it in a more creative way.
It has been an incredible career move for me. I now get to combine creativity with functionality, helping clients transform their spaces into something more beautiful and better suited to their families’ needs. It’s truly a rewarding profession.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road to this point wasn’t necessarily smooth—it was a long process that required patience and adaptability. I had to wait for the right opportunity to open up, and when it did, it meant transitioning from a salaried position to a commission-based role, which was a big shift. I also had no prior experience in sales, so stepping into that world came with its own challenges.The move from working behind the scenes with builders—primarily through phone and email—to face-to-face interactions with homeowners was a significant adjustment. At first, those in-person consultations felt a bit nerve-racking, but over time they became one of the most rewarding parts of the job.
I was fortunate to have the guidance of one of our senior designers, who played a huge role in helping me navigate this transition. She trained me, helped me build confidence, and taught me how to balance setting realistic expectations with delivering excellent customer service and thoughtful, functional designs. Her mentorship made a lasting impact, and I truly don’t think I would be where I am today without her support.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My work centers around helping clients bring both function and personality into their spaces. I meet with homeowners on a wide range of projects—from full kitchen renovations to smaller additions like coffee bars or targeted upgrades. I also take on more detailed customization work, such as adding inserts or enhancements to existing cabinetry originally installed on the contract side, allowing homeowners to better tailor their builder-grade spaces to fit their needs.
I would say I specialize in bridging the gap between builder-standard design and fully customized living. Because of my background working with builders, I bring a strong understanding of how homes are constructed, which allows me to offer practical, efficient solutions while still focusing on creativity and aesthetics.
What I’m most proud of is my ability to truly listen to my clients and translate their needs into designs that improve how they live day to day. Whether it’s a large-scale renovation or a small but meaningful upgrade, I approach every project with the same level of care.
What sets me apart is that combination of technical knowledge and personalized service. I understand the structure behind the design, but I also focus on creating spaces that feel intentional, functional, and uniquely suited to each homeowner.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
In my personal life, this part of my story isn’t especially surprising. My mom, stepdad, and sister all work for Woodsman as well, so they’ve seen my growth with the company firsthand. My husband has also been alongside me for nearly my entire career here, and I’ve even had the opportunity to remodel a few family members’ kitchens.
What does tend to surprise my clients is how long I’ve been in the industry, especially since I’m only 34. What they often don’t realize is that my connection to the company goes far beyond my professional role. I’ve been coming to Woodsman since I was a child because of my mom, who actually started in the same position I did, in the very same office.
I have vivid memories of being there as a kid—helping her organize files and running them between offices. In many ways, Woodsman has always been a part of my life, and it truly feels like a second home.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.woodsman.biz/
