In this episode of Stroomstories, Pieter sat down with Dean, the founder of Dean’s Décor, a beloved furniture and décor business in Potchefstroom. What unfolded was a powerful story about faith, creativity, and the courage to step into a new chapter of life.
From Pastor to Creative Entrepreneur
Dean’s journey didn’t begin in business. He spent 15 years in full-time ministry, deeply involved in youth work and music leadership. “I always thought I’d be in ministry forever,” he told Pieter. But as time passed, Dean began to feel that he had buried some of his creative gifts.
One day, during prayer, he heard something that changed his life: “God told me I could leave the ministry and He would still bless me.” With encouragement from his wife and a leap of faith, Dean transitioned into business—starting with just a newspaper ad and a single furniture sale.
The Birth of Dean’s Décor
That first sale of a lounge suite sparked something. Dean took the profit and used it to build what would become Dean’s Décor. “I didn’t want to just sell furniture,” Dean said. “I wanted to offer something personal—something that carried who I am. That’s why I named it Dean’s Décor.”
Today, the business is known for its quality, originality, and warm service. From natural-edge dining tables to custom curtains and Chesterfield sofas, everything reflects Dean’s passion for creativity and excellence.
Building a Business with Heart
Throughout the interview, Dean emphasized the importance of relationships—both with his clients and his team. “We’re not just a shop. We’re people helping people make their homes beautiful,” he explained to Pieter.
Dean also shared about the joy of watching his team grow—some of whom have been with him for over 15 years. “I don’t say they work for me. We work together.”
Faith, Failure, and Forward Momentum
Pieter and Dean also dove into the deeper stuff: the challenges of starting from scratch, making mistakes, and growing through every season. “I call it failing forward,” Dean said. “You fall, you get up, and you keep moving with God.”
He also spoke about taking risks, like saying yes to his very first curtain project—without any prior experience. “Sometimes you’ve just got to say ‘yes’ and figure it out,” he laughed.
Why People Keep Coming Back
From homes in Potch to high-end projects in estates like Pecanwood, Dean’s Décor has built a reputation for quality and care. And according to Dean, the real success lies in the small things: honest communication, fair pricing, and making every client feel valued.
“Whether someone spends R1,000 or R100,000, we treat them the same,” he told Pieter. “It’s about people. Always.”
Dean’s Advice to Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Before wrapping up the interview, Pieter asked Dean what advice he’d give to those starting out:
“Start with what you have. Do the small things with excellence. Be willing to do what others don’t want to. And let God lead every step.”
Remember to tune into Stroomstories on the Go-To Guy Facebook Page for more inspiring conversations.
Click here to view the interview.
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