Pirates

This video, made by Saddleback Leather CEO, Dave Munson, after his heirloom-quality leather bags were targeted for knock-offs, is pretty amazing. Watch this video to see him walk pirates through the process of making one of his bags step-by-step. It's a marketing video, for sure, but it's also a pretty great run down of how leather goods are made. And, of course, why it's always better to go with quality over low price!

Farewell 2013

This year, like every year, has been full of ups and downs but on the whole I'd say it was pretty great. This was the first year I spent doing Heist full time, and although I've probably spent more effort and time on it than I have with any other job, I can honestly say it has also been the most rewarding job - even though most days it hardly feels like work at all.

First things first, we launched our line of salvaged leather handbags! I think back on the process of making patterns, learning to sew leather, researching equipment, etc. and I'm blown away by how far I've come. Sure, there are always improvements to be made and my list of ideas and goals continues to grow but it's nice to look back and realize the progress that has been made. 

Travel! I didn't do as much in 2013 as I would have liked but I did get to visit some pretty great places. From Big Bear, CA to a trip up the road to St. Augustine, FL I definitely did a good deal of traveling this year. I'm really looking forward to a year of adventures in 2014 and my "to visit" list is already pretty long.

Professionally, this has been a great year for Heist. We welcomed some great new wholesale accounts, joined some new sites and tried our hand at some local markets. It's funny how things can seem so daunting until you just jump right in and try. Some things worked, some things didn't but it's all a big learning experience. I'm hoping to do some larger, national shows this year and I have an extensive list of retailers that I would love to work with, so I definitely have my work cut out for me. But again, looking back can give you so much perspective on where you've been and where you're headed!

Loving on this guy all day, every day. 'Nuff said.

Our new branding by Flying Pyramids. I think the fact that I've stamped this logo on everything from copper to cotton bags really shows how much I love this design, but in case there was any confusion...I LOVE IT!

 One of the biggest highlights of my year was...music! I was a music major in undergrad and music was my everything for pretty much my whole life. But since graduating with my B.M. I've gone back to school, been absorbed in other jobs and experiences and then started devoting all my time to Heist. Well 2013 brought me right back! I spent time singing and recording and now

I'm teaching piano part time (and loving it). And as of the last two weeks, I'm learning guitar! Looking forward to a lot more music in 2014.

Heist Vintage! Another far off idea that somehow became reality this year. Crazy!

Here's to a new year filled with good health, love, prosperity and happiness! 2014 has a nice ring to it!