Today we’d like to introduce you to Christopher Ryan.
Alright, thank you for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
I started in leather work over a decade ago. Initially, I wanted a designer wallet I couldn’t afford, so my wife suggested I make my own. One weekend, we took a local Tandy leather class, and I became hooked on leatherwork. When people found out I was working with leather, I was constantly asked if I could make something. That got me to try making different items, leading me to where I am today, making high-end leather products.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wouldn’t call it a smooth road. I learn something new every day. Starting a small business is full of challenges; time is a big challenge. Leather work is a long process., which takes time., and I fully make every product I make. When I started my business, it quickly became seven days a week. Balancing the workload and finding time for my wife and three little girls is always challenging. Running a small business has been a total learning experience. I quickly learned what customers want, which only helped me make the best quality product possible.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I love working with leather because of all the different things that can be done with it. I am always trying new things when time allows, but what I specialize in and am most known for are high-end firearm holsters. The quality of my work sets me apart. When people see my holsters, they notice the quality of the work right away. Taking the extra time to ensure everything is done correctly makes a high-quality, lasting holster. My holsters range from traditional cowhide to exotic leathers such as shark, stingray, ostrich, alligator, elephant, and others. Exotic hides are harder to work with than traditional cowhide, but I love the creativity I find when working with them. For me, I approach everything I make from an artistic view. I want to make something that is enjoyable to look at and also safe and functional. I am most proud when customers see my work and say it’s an art and I’ve made something they will be proud to own for years.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love my town. It’s small-town living; I am in the beautiful smoky mountains of Franklin, North Carolina. The people are nice and most of all there is no traffic. My workshop is on my property, so I have no commute, and I love that. Before I started my business, I was working and living in Orlando. I got tired of my daily commute fighting with traffic, so that is something I don’t miss at all. Since it is a small town, shopping and restaurants are limited. My wife and I enjoy shopping, so we will drive to a larger city. Overall I enjoy raising my daughters here.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.mayhemleather.com
- Instagram: HTTPS://www.instagram.com/mayhem_leather/
- Facebook: HTTPS://www.facebook.com/mayhemleather
