I loved growing up in Michigan. Summers were filled with trips up north and to the beaches of the Great Lakes. Winters were filled with freezing hands and toes, but snowball fights and white Christmases made it all worth it. When it was time for college, The University of Michigan was a natural choice. Moving to Ann Arbor (and away from home) was a big change, but it was fun and exciting. It helped that my high school sweetheart (Ali, now my wife) was making the trip with me. Ali and I still live in Ann Arbor, we just couldn't bear to leave this great place. We started Lima Beads in the spare bedroom of Ali's college apartment and the rest is history! I used to have hobbies, but now it's all about our two kids. Payton is 14 and Gable is 12. They (and their mom) amaze me every day.
I spend my days at Lima doing a little bit of everything. Because we're such a small young company, on any given day you can find me: talking with suppliers, working on the web site, thinking about what Lima should do next, helping Ali & Steve with advertising, ordering supplies, taking out the trash, vacuuming, etc. The truth is, we all chip in wherever help is needed. One area I've taken a particular interest in is the Lima Beads customer experience. I've never understood why some companies find it so difficult to provide great customer service. I know it's a cliche, but all you have to do is treat people the way you would like to be treated... so easy. What a great little piece of wisdom - thanks Mom!
My favorite thing about being part of Lima Beads is the culture of beading. Whether they're doing it for hobby, trying to start their own thing, or have already found success as a jewelry designer - beaders are an awesome bunch of people. I love being around the creative energy and wouldn't trade it for any other job.