The evolution of Red & Rugged…

As the “Red” in this duo, I began delivering newspapers in elementary school. “Rugged” (my husband) began mowing lawns and shoveling snow just a few miles from me, although we didn’t know each other then. We were both serving customers at a young age when you could still go door to door and work for your neighbors.

Growing up, I started writing in notebooks and exchanging them with friends as we documented our challenges and triumphs. I wrote stories and poems that are now only resurrected and read by the kids at family gatherings (thankfully). Who knew this was the start of a long and passionate connection to writing content?!

I began my career on a traditional corporate path: promoted from sales to business development to management until I made the life-changing transition to a start-up. Passionate about entrepreneurship, I launched my first business to write and distribute news and content about regional entrepreneurs. I hosted events and launched a magazine distributed nationally – all things I had never done before. Venture capital groups hired me to assist young companies en route to acquisition.

I developed a deep background working with start-ups, investors, economic development, and community leaders. This network led to opportunities to launch and build regional innovation communities - creating the infrastructure and attracting talent to invest in, identify, and support strong entrepreneurial teams. Each innovation community grew into a nationally recognized platform.

Over the years, our family began to travel, attend art shows, and meet artisans around the country. Our network grew, as did our interest in expanding our creative passions, to stop “checking the boxes,” and stretch our minds - to get out of the rut of routine. In 2017, we took the bold step to use our creativity, knowledge, and skills in more fulfilling ways. We launched Red & Rugged, handcrafting luxurious, one-of-a-kind artisan gifts.

Together, we grew Red & Rugged for seven years, attracting discerning individual clients and global executives who understood the value of handcrafted, one-of-a-kind experiences. We are proud and humbled to have built lasting relationships with artisans, executives, esteemed hospitality professionals, and boutique business owners. In August 2024, Rugged retired to behind the scenes, to enjoy the freedom to fish, hunt, golf, cook (make pizza!), and travel with me.

This decision opened the door to an exciting, natural next step for me: integrating my personal and professional experience with my artful and imaginative skills. Now, I own a platform that elevates, educates, and inspires women to launch businesses. I am excited to engage with women of depth and determination who are passionate about their unique product or service and committed to elevating their business skills. No sideline sitting here. Weave the work you love around a life that fulfills you.