MEET THE CREW
Ben Armistead
Woodshop Manager
Ben began at Phoenix Hardwoods when Jeff and Annie took over, working on cutting boards before expanding his skills to turning bowls, wine glasses, rolling pins, pizza cutters, bottle openers, and other handles. His love of woodworking began in high school shop class. He brings a wealth of experience from his background in construction and timber framing, having built homes from the ground up—everything from tiling to electrical work. After running his own construction and renovation company, Ben returned to Phoenix as the woodshop manager, where he handles custom orders. He still works part-time in construction and renovation on the side. When he's not working, Ben enjoys hiking, kayaking, and playing with his dogs.
Eric McDaniel
Floyd native and Master Stool Maker since March 2014
After his stint making cutting boards, Eric has been pumping out stools. Originally made from scrape wood, Eric’s skill and talent have turned our stools into one of Phoenix Hardwoods signature pieces. Now crafted using some of our best slabs and a vast amount of sandpaper those stools are all day comfortable and easy on most any bum. We appreciate the artistry he brings! He enjoys chilling with his two cats, Ivan and Critter. As well as weight-lifting and listening to audio books.
Josh Philpott
Laser Wizard and Crew Member since October 2020
Josh is talented on many fronts; his love for drawing and nature are a major asset for his work in the shop. Of course, he first started making cutting boards and worked himself up to making headboards, coffee tables and most of our small accessories. He is a master at the CNC machine and can pretty much engrave anything. Outside of work, Josh enjoys spending time with his family and friends.
Joe Davis
Our newest addition. Serving as Sargent in the Marine Corp for 5 years, and being stationed at Camp Pendleton, Joe retired from the military and began his search for a change of scenery. He and his family landed in Floyd Virginia and joined our team shortly thereafter in 2023. While he is also responsible for many small goods, Joe currently assumes responsibility for crafting our large selection of cutting boards but is eager to make the move into more detailed furniture craft. In his free time, Joe enjoys fishing, hunting, and riding his motorcycle. We thank you for your service!
Megan Ignelzi Armistead
Showroom Manager
Megan oversees daily sales, social media marketing, and inventory management, along with all the other moving parts that keep the showroom and company running smoothly. With a background in retail management and as a professionally trained cook, she brings a unique skill set to the team. Growing up in a woodworking family, Megan helped her dad in his woodshop as a little girl and had more than her fair share of trips to furniture museums, fostering her deep appreciation for craftsmanship. Her diverse background is a perfect fit for managing and operating the showroom. When she’s not working, Megan enjoys baking, cooking, and cuddling with her dogs.
OUR STORY
In January 2020, Jeff and Annie Armistead acquired Phoenix Hardwoods. It was a perfect match with Jeff, a lifelong conservationist, and Annie, a local artist and gallery owner. Their desire was to continue what had become a loved and well-respected local business. They are passionate about retaining true handmade artisan craftsmanship which is rich in Floyd and part of the draw to this truly unique community. In addition to keeping the facility and retaining their team of talented young artisans, the company’s retail expansion into the Town of Floyd is breathing new life into the old Farmer’s Supply store, a Floyd landmark that opened in the 1930’s and closed in late 2020.
