Meet Sam Oprea | Cabinet Manufacturer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sam Oprea and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sam, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Faith & Family Legacy Focus

“My thought process behind starting my own business came from both family legacy and faith. I’m a fifth-generation woodworker — my great-grandfather had his own cabinet shop before it was taken away during communism. When my father immigrated here, he started again from scratch. After he passed, I felt a responsibility not just to carry forward the craft but to build something bigger — a company that could provide stability for many families. I also believed that if I put God first and applied His principles to my work, He would bless the business. That’s been true every step of the way.”

Entrepreneurial Vision & Opportunity Focus

“I wanted to create a company where I could take full responsibility for the quality, the service, and the direction of the work. Working for others, I always saw things that could be improved — whether in design, production, or customer experience. Starting my own business gave me the freedom to implement new technologies, improve efficiency, and build a culture where craftsmanship and customer satisfaction come first.”

Personal Motivation & Practical Drive

“The decision wasn’t just about wanting independence — it was about solving a problem. I saw a gap in the market for a cabinet company that handled everything in-house: design, engineering, manufacturing, finishing, and installation. By starting my own business, I could ensure full quality control, keep costs in check, and deliver a better experience for customers. That practical drive, along with the desire to provide for my family and employees, is what pushed me to take the leap.”

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
“My business is Kitchen & Bath Design Group, which we operate under the OPREA brand. What sets us apart is that we don’t just design or just build — we handle everything under one roof: design, engineering, manufacturing, finishing, assembly, delivery, and installation. That means we control the quality every step of the way, and we stand fully behind what we deliver to our customers.

I’m proud that we’ve grown into one of the most advanced cabinet manufacturers in our region. We operate out of an 85,000 square-foot facility equipped with cutting-edge technology: automated storage systems, robotic CNC machining, automated finishing lines with ovens — you name it. But what really excites me is that behind all that machinery are skilled people, many of whom are providing for their families through this work. We’re not just building cabinets; we’re building opportunities.

The journey here wasn’t easy. My father started with a small cabinet shop, and when he passed, I had to step up and rebuild. There were challenges with financing, supply chain, staffing, and competition, but I overcame them by leaning on faith, persistence, and a willingness to adapt. When things didn’t go as planned, I treated them as lessons, not failures. One big lesson I’ve learned is that putting God first really does bring order and blessing — in life and in business.

What I want the world to know about my brand is simple: OPREA is about quality, legacy, and integrity. I’m the fifth generation in woodworking, and my mission is to combine that heritage with modern technology to deliver kitchens that inspire. Our slogan is ‘Inspire, Design, Create,’ and that’s exactly what we do — we inspire our customers, design their dream spaces, and then create them with excellence. This business is personal to me, and every project is a chance to honor my family’s legacy and serve others with the best of what we can do.”

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
“If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d want them to experience the best of Georgia — from the city energy of Atlanta to the charm of the small towns and the beauty of the outdoors.

Day 1 – Welcome & Local Flavor
We’d start right in Winder with some good Southern cooking — maybe a local barbecue spot — and then tour my cabinet facility so they can see what we build here. In the evening, we’d relax with family and enjoy a homemade Romanian-style dinner to honor my heritage.

Day 2 – Atlanta Experience
We’d spend a day in Atlanta — walking through Piedmont Park, visiting the Georgia Aquarium, and catching a Braves game if it’s baseball season. Dinner would be at a top steakhouse or a rooftop spot with city views.

Day 3 – Mountains & Nature
North Georgia has some of the most beautiful mountain scenery. We’d drive up to Helen, enjoy the Bavarian village vibe, float the Chattahoochee River, and eat German food. Or we’d hike Amicalola Falls for a taste of the Appalachian Trail.

Day 4 – Lake Life
We’d spend a day at Lake Lanier or Lake Oconee — boating, fishing, and swimming. Nothing beats a sunset cruise on the lake followed by a relaxed dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

Day 5 – History & Culture
We’d explore Athens, home of UGA — checking out the music scene, coffee shops, and historic spots. Athens has a unique blend of small-town charm and creative energy.

Day 6 – Coastal Adventure
If time allows, we’d take a road trip to Savannah and Tybee Island. Savannah’s cobblestone streets, oak trees with Spanish moss, and historic squares are unforgettable. Dinner at The Olde Pink House, then ice cream at Leopold’s.

Day 7 – Faith & Family
We’d finish the trip with Sunday service at my church and a family dinner. I’d want them to meet the people closest to me, because that’s the heartbeat of my life — faith, family, and community.

To me, Georgia is special because you can go from vibrant city life to quiet countryside, from lakes to mountains to coast, all in one state. And the people here — hardworking, friendly, and welcoming — are what truly make it unforgettable.”

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Faith First

“I have to give the first shoutout to God. Without His blessings and guidance, I wouldn’t be here. Every step of my journey, from the struggles to the breakthroughs, has been shaped by putting Him first. He’s opened doors, given me wisdom, and carried me through challenges I couldn’t have overcome on my own.”

Family Legacy

“My family deserves huge credit. My great-grandfather, grandfather, and father all worked in woodworking before me. My father especially set the example by starting a small cabinet shop when we came to the U.S. He taught me hard work, integrity, and that providing for your family with your own two hands is a gift. I stand on the foundation they built.”

Community & Mentorship

“I’ve been blessed with incredible mentors and supporters — from local business leaders to church family. People who shared advice, prayed with me, believed in me when I was just getting started. Their encouragement gave me the confidence to take risks and grow into the business owner I am today.”

Website: https://www.oprea.com

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