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. Who knew this was the start of a long and passionate connection to creativity and writing?

I began my career on a traditional corporate path: promoted from sales to business development and into management until I made the life-changing transition to a start-up - and never looked back. 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. One constant, I infused creativity into every role, from Writing Walls, custom client cards, hosting team meetings at unique offsite locations, to planning memorable event experiences.

By working together with start-ups, investors, economic development professionals, and community leaders, I developed a broad business background. This network created opportunities to launch and build regional innovation communities, establishing the infrastructure and attracting talent to invest in, identify, and support strong entrepreneurial teams. Each innovation program grew into a nationally recognized platform.

During this time, our family began traveling, attending art shows, and meeting artisans across 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 transition opened the door to my exciting next step: integrating my personal and professional experience with my artful and imaginative skills. Now, I own this platform that elevates, educates, and inspires seasoned and savvy women in business. I am excited to engage with women of depth and determination who are passionate about their business or next body of work. No sideline sitting here, ladies, this is our chapter to define.