WHO ARE YOU, WHERE ARE YOU FROM, & WHAT DO YOU DO?
Joseph Nordan, Augusta GA, owner of Burl & Barrel Co.

DESCRIBE YOUR PROCESS.
I make handcrafted men's grooming products out of my own house. I started this up about a year ago because at a young age I became very interested in learning how things are made. With that mindset, I focused my attention on creating an all-natural line of products. At first, it was to save money. But then, I just really started to enjoy everything about making products and letting other people try them out! Every product is measured out, mixed, and batched by hand. All product labeling, printing, packaging, and shipping is done in one of our guest bedrooms, which my wife and I have turned into a business workspace.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
Other motivated, young start-ups that have a vision, put their nose to the grindstone, and make it happen!

FUN FACT ABOUT YOU.
I grew up in a very musical family. I've been singing and playing instruments since I was 5! Also, without a beard, I look like I'm 12.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOWNTOWN AUGUSTA.
Nightlife, appreciation of arts & culture.

WHY DO YOU LOVE TO DESIGN, CREATE + MAKE?
I believe that we were created intelligently to intelligently design and create. So finding a creative outlet really isn't an option for me. It's a must! And I love what I do!

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD SHARE WITH OTHER ARTISTS + MAKERS?
If you have a vision for something, whether it's creating a product, a brand, offering a service... research it. Don't be afraid to get to work on it right away! Take time. Make mistakes. Figure out what works and what doesn't. Solicit feedback from trusted sources. And have fun! Your business venture is literally what you make of it!