Before officially launching Holzer Handcrafted as an LLC in 2023, I spent over 20 years in the corporate world developing experience in marketing, digital design, ecommerce management, website development, merchandising, and customer relationships. Today, I bring that same structured thinking and creativity into our business — leading marketing, product label design, digital assets, and brand presentation, while also designing and crafting our wood goods (and occasionally helping pour candles when needed).

My personal connection to woodworking began in 2001 when I apprenticed under a master finish carpenter. I quickly developed an appreciation for the skill, patience, and satisfaction that comes from working with natural materials — something that stayed with me for years.

In 2017, a home organization project brought woodworking back into my life. After building a custom closet solution that fit our needs perfectly, I realized how much I missed creating with my hands. One project led to another, and before long woodworking became the foundation of what would eventually become Holzer Handcrafted.

Today, I handle marketing, product and label design, website development, and overall brand direction — while continuing to design and craft our wood goods. My background allows me to connect the creative and technical sides of the business, making it easy for customers, retailers, and corporate partners to collaborate with us on custom and co-branded projects. From initial concept through final production, I help ensure each project is thoughtfully designed, well-executed, and aligned with the standards we’ve built Holzer Handcrafted on.

Favorite business-related activity: Designing and building custom furniture — projects that combine creative problem-solving, light engineering, and the occasional heavy lifting.

Favorite non-business-related activities: Being a Dad and playing drums.

My 20+ year professional career included account management, customer relations, and financial services — roles that required strong communication, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of what customers truly value. I developed a passion for creating experiences that feel both meaningful and dependable.

My candle-making journey began in 2022. I set out to make a candle using leftover wax from candles I had burned, with no business plans in mind. As I researched the process, I became fascinated by how much science and testing goes into creating a candle that performs beautifully — from wax and fragrance balance to wick selection and burn consistency.

Around the same time, I began exploring cold process soap making. Creating matching scents across candles and soaps felt like a natural extension of the experience, even though it was still purely a personal pursuit.

When we experienced how well the candles burned and how beautifully the soaps performed, it became clear they should thoughtfully expand the direction of Holzer Handcrafted. What began as a woodworking-focused business in 2017 was already grounded in craftsmanship and intentional design. Wood wick candles and soap bars felt like a natural evolution — helping us build a more cohesive collection.

Today, I am responsible for production, fragrance curation, quality standards, supply procurement, fulfillment, and customer communication — ensuring our goods deliver both emotional impact and consistent performance while staying true to our handcrafted origins.

Favorite business-related activity: Making soap — every batch turns out a little different, which keeps it fun… and our soaps smell amazing.

Favorite non-business-related activities: Being a Mom, crocheting and burning candles.