A Small Business Built on Big Support
I have been thinking a lot about community these past few weeks. When we launched our very kickstarter to fund a fabric printing machine, I was nervous. We had never done anything like that before. But I kept reminding myself that sometimes not knowing how something is supposed to be done is the very thing that lets you try it with fresh eyes. And that approach has worked out pretty well for us over the years.
What surprised me most was how many familiar names showed up to back the project. As I sit here filling orders, those same names are rolling across my screen again. It feels like being wrapped in a warm blanket every time I recognize someone who has been with us for years. That sense of support is something I do not take lightly.
Our customers truly feel like family. When we see someone in person it is special. I am one of those people who loves a good hug, a great story and any moment when someone lights up with passion. It is a privilege to witness that joy in others. I could listen for hours.
All of this has made me reflect on how this business even came to be. I have met plenty of people who talk about what they sell like it is something people absolutely need and they act like customers are lucky to get it. I have always felt the opposite. I know no one needs our gear. So every time someone chooses something we made with our own hands, it feels meaningful. It feels earned.
I love creating. I love making gear. I love coming up with new ideas. And I love that we have a community who appreciates all of it. I work hard not to let any success go to my head, but I do give myself a small pat on the back when we hit a goal or create something cool. The cheerleader in my head is loud, but she would have nothing to cheer for without this incredible group of people who show up for us again and again.
The funny thing is that this entire gear journey started with Todd. He is just as creative as I am, maybe more so, and we make a great team. I love the challenge of running a small business because it lets me use both sides of my brain. I get to be creative but I also get to grow, problem solve and learn new skills. People say the secret to life is to never stop learning, which makes me think I am already doing pretty well.
Our kickstarter reminded me that what we have built is more than a business. It is a community. It is a group of people who believe in us enough to help us grow, evolve and take on new challenges. That is something I will never stop being grateful for.