Have You Met...Mike Becker?

Chances are, Mike Becker sleeps pretty well at night. Not only has he owned and operated Fred's Beds since 2002, he's made sure his company plays an integral role in supporting the ideals of business ownership that make for a stronger sense of community.

The family-owned business (Mike's mom Alice is a company partner) is best describes as something out of the Any Griffith Show. Friends frequently stop by to chat, pet the shop's dog and check on the the latest furniture arrivals and consignments.

Mike Becker has also lent a helping hand to just about every community establishment in Forsyth County including Abba House, Jesse's House, Habitat for Humanity, Angels Over Forsyth and the Forsyth County Humane Society. "Mom and I really like being a small business in a wonderful area like Forsyth County, " says Becker. "I see a lot of myself and my family in many of our customers--hard working people with families who are looking for a fair price on nice things for the home."

Becker's sentiment shines through his business with discounts offered to the Forsyth County Fire Department for mattresses in the firehouse and discounts offered to Forsyth County Teacher of the Year recipients.
The store is housed in the Old Matt Schoolhouse, built in 1939. A sense of nostalgia fills the air, and it has a great deal to with Mike Becker's obvious respect for staying connected with Cumming's small-town roots despite Forsyth County's fast growth. "The old building really adds character to our business," says Becker. "Our customers love the old place and a lot of students come by just to see what we have done with the building."

If you've ever wondered where the name comes from, it probably won't surprise you to hear that the store was named after "Fred," Becker's beloved dog that passed away just as the shop was opened. Since then, a little brindle dog named "Bud," wandered into the shop and he's been with Becker at Fred's Beds for nine years now.

When Becker isn't at the shop, he spends most of his time with his wife and their two young sons. Mike also enjoys playing the guitar and playing golf when his schedule permits.

Next time you're on Namon Wallace Road in Cumming, look for Fred's Beds in the Old Matt School house. You'll learn how small-town business values make a difference when it comes to buying furniture--And you'll sleep better at night too!