Richard and I both come from backgrounds in fine arts and graphic design. During college, we envisioned ourselves working for graphic art studios, but life had other plans. After graduating, Richard worked at a local art store, while I managed departments at Nordstrom. When I left Nordstrom after a decade, I transitioned to training managers at a local coffee shop. Then, one Monday in the fall of 2009, I was given just three hours' notice that the company was closing forever.

Getting laid off suddenly (and being a new homeowner on top of it!) was incredibly stressful, but it also sparked an important realization for Richard and me: We had the skills and creativity to start our own business. So, after many discussions, we decided to put our experience and education to work. We bought a small screen-printing press and started what has become Counter Couture in the garage of our first home.

We built Counter Couture out of a basic desire to live a creative and fulfilling life, with a bit of silliness tossed in. Every print starts as a pen and paper illustration drawn by us. Over the years, we’ve gradually expanded, moving into larger spaces and studios. Now, we’re settled in our new warehouse in east Denver, where we manufacture, warehouse, and ship our products.

Starting a business from scratch was challenging, especially having to teach ourselves everything. I spent countless hours researching SEO and learning how to build a website. But over time, we’ve built a network of other small business owners who support each other, which has been amazing. 

Being a small business owner can be incredibly overwhelming, but it's also immensely satisfying. For example, getting recognized by national and local publications is always a thrill, and it does boost business. Having well-known national retailers like Uncommon Goods and West Elm pick up our line has taken us to the next level.

Working well together for over a decade and building a home life has been more than we could have ever asked for. From starting in our kitchen to expanding into a 7,000-square-foot warehouse, we've transitioned from corporate America to living our creative dream, and we couldn’t be more grateful!