Local business Wrightwood Carpet and Flooring celebrated its 40th anniversary this October. With 40 years of success, owner and operator Rudi Koppen looks back on the humble beginnings of his career when he founded his business in 1984.
Rudi began installing flooring at the young age of 19 in the Hollywood and Beverly Hills area. In 1982, he moved to Wrightwood, where his immediate family was living, and found that mountain life suited him.
“Eventually, I found that I hated the drive down the hill, so I started my business in Wrightwood, doing flooring, and I haven’t quit since,” Rudi said.
With only $150 in startup costs, he put $100 toward rental space and $50 toward advertising. His first location was near the Wrightwood Inn on Hwy 2, and he placed his first ad in the local paper, The Mountaineer Progress. Rudi even recalls that his first customer was Lora Steinmann, a longtime resident and prominent member of the Wrightwood community, who not only took a chance on a new entrepreneur in town but also valued the importance of supporting local businesses.
“Even now, a lot of people say, ‘We want to keep it in the community; we want to keep it local,’” said Wrightwood Carpets and Flooring office manager Debbie Antes, who keeps the showroom open during regular business hours and is the friendly voice on the phone when you call their office.
Rudi’s commitment to community, hard work, and dedication to his craft are what keep his business thriving after all these years. As a small-business owner, Rudi does it all, from sales to pickup, delivery, and installation.
“It’s a very prideful job, and getting to know the customers is fun. I like to gain people’s trust for their referrals and repeat business. I believe we offer quality craftsmanship in a hometown atmosphere,” said Rudi, whose motto is “You’re only as good as your last job.”
Over the years, the business has grown, and Rudi has hired more help to keep the operation running smoothly. Almost 20 years ago, he hired Eric Bishop, and the two have had a great working relationship ever since. Rudi even brought on his son, Ryan, making it a family-run business, as family is of the utmost importance to him. Rudi loves that he was able to raise four children—his daughter Crystal and sons Rudi III, Ryan, and Christian—in the tight-knit community of Wrightwood. Now all grown up with children of their own, Rudi hopes that future generations will continue to carry on his business.
Looking back on the last 40 years, Rudi said, “It’s been a wonderful time with this community. There’s been some tough times here and there, but I’m a blessed man.”
Visit the Wrightwood Carpets and Flooring showroom at 1253 Evergreen Road, next to Mexico Lindo. The showroom features a wide selection of top-quality flooring, such as carpets, hardwood, luxury vinyl, and newer waterproof laminates—all at unbeatable prices that are better than the big-box stores.
“I’ll not only beat their price; I’ll be there when the customer calls with questions,” Rudi said.
The company is licensed and carries workers’ comp as well as general liability insurance to protect customers and to comply with contractors’ law. Regular hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon; and closed on Sundays and Mondays. You can also call the office at (760) 249-5576 to make an appointment that fits your busy schedule.
Wrightwood Carpet and Flooring would like to thank its customers and the community for their support over the last 40 years.
