Smithsonian Craft Show

Smithsonian Craft Show

A Smithsonian Craft Show Artist

This time of year always makes me reflect. Maybe it’s the shift from winter to summer, the seasonal slowdown in orders as people spend more time outdoors than shopping, or maybe it’s because four years ago this month, I quit my corporate job to take on Roots & Jones full time.

I remember that moment in my life so clearly — yet it feels like forever ago. Four years as a full-time pen maker is no small feat. And it wouldn’t have been possible without the ongoing support of my family and the incredible customers who continue to believe in what I do.

Last weekend, I had the honor of showing at the Smithsonian Craft Show in Washington, D.C. — the most prestigious craft show in the country. Only 120 artists from across the U.S. are accepted, and this year, I was one of them. A true honor.

I do a lot of shows. But to be invited to our nation's capital to display my work is something I don’t take lightly. Even more surreal: the show took place exactly six years after my very first art show — where I sold zero pens. Three full 8-hour days, and not a single sale.

To go from a small event at the KY Expo Center in Louisville to the National Building Museum in D.C. is still mind-blowing. I'm deeply grateful to every person who’s supported me and this business. I can be the best pen maker in the world, but without people like you, none of this would matter.

This is especially true for my family. I’ll never forget the moment my grandpa looked me in the eyes and told me to go for it. He believed in me — even when I had just one retail account and sold only a few pens a month.

Since that first zero-sale show, we’ve:

• Been the Official Writing Instrument of the 150th Kentucky Derby

• Made pens from wood reclaimed from the U.S. Supreme Court

• Worked with barrels from Buffalo Trace and Opus One

• Crafted pieces from historic properties such as the Hotel del Coronado, Biltmore Estate, and Hillwood Estate.

• And now, showcased our work at the top art show in the country.

Four years ago, I took a risk. I said yes to this full-time pursuit — and I’m so glad I did. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have had the moment of standing in D.C. with my family, celebrating this milestone at the Smithsonian.

Sometimes, all it takes is confidence… and just a little bit of delusion. Here's to the many more exciting moments to come.

Grandpa and I setup at the Smithsonian Craft Show

The setup at our very first craft show. Learn more about my history here.