Today we’d like to introduce you to Seth Carswell.
Seth, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started off my professional career as an industrial designer and product developer in the corporate world but quickly realized that there was a huge disconnect when designing for a mass produced item and something that seemed to have heart and soul crafted into it. In 2012 I quickly began searching for a material that fostered a rich connection to the past and the future.
Leather was the perfect medium for creating our goods and that would support the rich legacy of a long lifespan. Fast forward, and today, through lots of hard work, Vessel Goods has a core set of products that we believe are a staple for the man’s lifestyle (and still working to complete the line up). We believe that every item someone buys from us is an heirloom quality piece that their children will be able to enjoy long after they are gone.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Nothing worth doing well is easy. Forging a new brand and a completely new set of products is extremely tough. There are no directions for success and no shortcuts to the end result. Crafting handmade goods is a process that comes with a lot of trial and error and each set of mistakes is a learning process that has been necessary for smart growth and business management.
Running a small business is tough especially when “throwing money at your problems” is never an option. Every dollar counts at this level and often I’ve had to get very creative with how problems were solved. After all the dust settled, however, I wouldn’t trade any of the experiences, I’ve had a smoother road. The process has made Vessel Goods and myself what we are today. Still growing, always learning.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Vessel Goods Leather Company is a leather goods brand that focuses on men and crafting items that help set them apart. Our goods are timeless in design, durable in nature, and created to be the vessel that carries the legacy of the owner into the next generation.
I get the most satisfaction when I have a customer approach me and comment that they want one of my bags but they have to save up the money first. Whenever someone chooses to make a dedicated decision every month and set money aside for something that I have crafted, I am honored. It’s that very person that understands the deep roots that a well-made leather item can have. It’s an investment in the generation that follows them. For that sacrifice. For that dedication to leaving something quality behind for their kids, the future, that is what makes me most proud.
I believe that what sets Vessel Goods apart is the mission behind the company. We are dedicated to creating men’s goods that will reflect the legacy of the owner. The longer it’s used, the better it gets.
What were you like growing up?
I was the athletic kid growing up that never sat still and never came indoors until it was time to eat. I always had some kind of ball in my hand and it stayed that way until I graduated college. Sports aside, however, I was inquisitive and curious. I continuously dismantled toys to figure out how they worked.
I crafted my own ropes from shoelaces to rig up gizmos and traps. This always made finding shoes with laces a nightmare when it was time for church. My love for the outdoors and for creating, I believe, has never wanted but simply transformed and become more focused with age. Most of the best memories I can recall have come from one or the other.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.vesselgoods.com
- Email: seth@vesselgoods.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vesselgoods/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vesselgoods/
Image Credit:
Tyler Mackenzie Photography
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