Focus on Dinettes Unlimited

by Samantha Taylor

Wendy Wollheim Higa can’t go to anyone’s house or even watch TV shows without noticing the furniture. It’s not just an occupational hazard – the furniture industry is in her blood. Wendy’s father started Dinettes Unlimited, which has a store in Altamonte Springs, in 1976. 

“I was born into this industry,” says Wendy, who as a kid got her start in the family business by stamping envelopes and helping out in the office. “I’ve been working in this showroom since 1999.”

And what a showroom it is. Chock-full of beautiful dining tables, chairs, and barstools, there truly is something for everyone. The specialty store, which prides itself on fair pricing, no pressure, and a knowledgeable sales staff, has a “try before you buy” policy. They encourage customers to take furniture and swatches home and try them out.

“A lot of people just don’t know what their options for quality furniture are,” says Wendy, adding that her store caters to clients who want better choices than what’s available at big box furniture stores. “People don’t want imported, inferior furniture that looks the same as everyone else. They want American-made, quality.”

Dinettes Unlimited carries top brands such as John Thomas and Amisco, and Wendy is proud to say that she and her staff have more than 50 years combined experience. Customers drive from hours away to meet with them. The store has become a destination for those who are looking for the finest quality and best customer service. 

Wendy thrives on staying busy, not just as a businesswoman but also with The Roth Family JCC – where she is very involved. She and her husband, Luis, have a son, Levi, who is a student at the JCC’s Richard S. Adler Early Childhood Learning Center.

“I feel so at home at the JCC. I exercise there, I’m a room mom, and I’m on the fundraising committee,” says Wendy. “I love meeting the other moms and families there.”

Wendy, who has a second job as a Realtor, knows the furniture industry like the back of her hand. At Dinettes Unlimited, clients can buy what is in stock or customize the tables and chairs to their liking. Customized orders are delivered within a few weeks, making for happy, loyal customers. Wendy invites everyone to visit the store to see, touch, and experience the incredible selection of dining solutions that can help make a kitchen the heart of a home.