WHO ARE YOU, WHERE ARE YOU FROM, & WHAT DO YOU DO?
We are from Spartanburg, SC and make handmade men’s grooming and apparel products in support of local and national suicide prevention organizations.

DESCRIBE YOUR PROCESS.
I think my process can change some depending on what I am working on. But generally each product begins with some sort of inspiration. For example, our new 2019 Fall/Winter apparel collection started with the positive messages or sayings and that inspired the design of the item. With the grooming products I usually tend to make something that I think I would like to use. 

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
Right now, it’s people’s stories. We started a new online community for men called The Everyday Sailors as a place for men to share their struggles, wins, inspiration, and encouragement without judgement. The response to the group has been mind blowing. I have sat there and teared up at some of the posts. The guys in this group and the things they are going through really inspire me.

FUN FACT ABOUT YOU.
I was in a band years ago that used to tour full time. It also had a nautical name. I guess I like the sea?

FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOWNTOWN AUGUSTA.
Downtown Augusta was always our date spot before we were married, so it will always hold a special place in our hearts.

WHY DO YOU LOVE TO DESIGN, CREATE + MAKE?
It is an innate desire but it took me a long time to realize or accept. I have always created but never thought of myself as a creative person. Now I realize how much joy and fulfillment it brings so I almost always have to be creating in some form or fashion. Choppy Seas is a great outlet for this. 

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD SHARE WITH OTHER ARTISTS + MAKERS?
Just start making. Sometimes the best inspiration comes from the process itself.