Meet Jeremy Sisson, Assistant Store Manager, Tile Outlets Fort Myers

When you are next looking for the perfect porcelain or ceramic tile, marble, travertine or mosaics - even cabinets for that matter - be sure to visit Tile Outlets of America in Fort Myers. You'll not only find the most extensive selection of in-stock and first quality tile and stone, but also people - like Jeremy Sisson - who care intensely about helping you find the right tile and stone product so you can make your dream for your home become reality.

Jeremy Sisson, Assistant Store Manager, Tile Outlets in Fort Myers, is next in our blog series where we introduce you to the leadership team for each Tile Outlets store. So far, you've met:

Meet Jeremy Sisson. He's an Assistant Store Manager in Fort Myers.

TOA: Jeremy, tell me about yourself and your background.

I worked at a couple of big box stores before coming to Tile Outlets of America. I’m originally from Florida and can remember when there wasn’t a building where the store is now.

TOA: What is your role at TOA?

I’m currently an Assistant Manager in the Fort Myers store.

I started as an order puller in June of 2005 and worked my way up through the receiving department, into online sales manager and product photography.

When Chris Martin left Fort Myers to open the Sarasota store, I became assistant store manager.

Over the years I’ve been involved in every major reset that has occurred in the Fort Myers store and I’m still amazed at how far we’ve come.

TOA: How did you get started with tile?

I actually didn’t know anything about tile until I started working for Tile Outlets of America. I was looking for a change when I wandered into the store one day and decided to fill out an application form.

I’ve had to learn everything about tile, tile installation and tile maintenance as I went along.

TOA: What do you love most about tile and stone?

The versatility and benefits. There are so many things that can be done with tile and stone products. The possibilities are endless! We try to showcase as many of them as we can in the Fort Myers store.

>> See How To Design With White Tile: Inspiration From Fort Myers

>> See How to Create Tile Designs with Stone & Marble

>> See Tile Design Inspiration from Tile Outlets Fort Myers

>> See How to Transform a Bathroom With Tile: Fort Myers Bathroom Makeover

Tile and stone are also easier to keep clean than carpet; they don't wear out like carpet or vinyl.

TOA: Which is your favorite product and why?

If I had to pick a favorite product I’d probably say travertine. Travertine has been used as a building product for thousands of years; the Romans built everything out of it and many of the structures they built are still standing today. It’s hard to find anything that resilient in modern times.

>> See 13 Facts About Travertine Tile

>> See Mining Travertine Tile: From Quarry to your Home

TOA: What product or installation trends are most interesting for the Fort Myers market?

Right now the biggest trend is wood look ceramic and porcelain tile.

People have started doing bathroom walls and outdoor kitchens. It’s really surprising what people are doing with it now.

Wood look tile used on the walls of the Fort Myers bathroom

TOA: What tips do you have for someone getting ready for a tile or stone project? Where should they go for ideas and advice?

If people are looking for ideas and advice, the first and simplest place to go to is a search engine.

Another good place is to visit Tile Outlets and explore the Inspiration Area.

You can also explore the Tile & More Blog.

As far as tips, think about the space you're looking to tile or remodel and think about how you can best use the area.

• If you’re doing a small shower think about a recessed niche instead of a corner shelf to maximize the area.
• If you’re doing a huge room, think about a medallion or a design in the center to make it more interesting.

>> See How Wall and Floor Medallions Can Transform a Space

TOA: What’s the best way to prepare for a visit to the store?

Have your measurements if you know what area you’re doing.

Bring a camera or phone or a tablet that has one. I’ve heard it said that the first time people come into our store they’re overwhelmed by everything because there's a lot to take in all once. Some people call it the “wow factor”.

If you see something you like, take a picture, or purchase a sample and take it home. That way you can look at it again after you’ve had time to digest everything.

>> Download the Tile Project Checklist Dream Sheet

TOA: What do you do when you’re not immersed in tile?

If I’m not immersed in a project of my own at home, I’m on the boat or the beach enjoying the sunshine. The hotter the better; I don’t do cold weather!

Wood look tile can be installed in a herringbone pattern.

TOA: Any parting words of advice?

Yes. Anytime you do a tile project, keep an extra case or two of the tile. Dye lots change with every new run of a particular tile. If you ever have to replace a piece or two, you'll never find a matching dye lot and - in many cases - the tile won't even be available anymore. Stick it in the back of a closet, in the garage, anywhere it’s out of the way. You’ll be glad you did if you ever need it.

TOA: Thank you, Jeremy!

If you haven't yet visited Tile Outlets of America in Fort Myers we hope you'll come visit soon. When you do, be sure to say hi to Jeremy Sisson, and let all of us know how to help make your dream home become a reality with tile, stone, mosaics and more!