On the Woodpreneur Podcast, Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger interview Zach Bancroft of 805 Woodworks about his transition from antique dealing to custom furniture making. Zach discusses developing his craft style, material sourcing, and the vital role of word-of-mouth marketing. He shares candid insights about pandemic-era business struggles, mental health challenges, and his passion for creating sustainable, heirloom-quality furniture in today's disposable culture. The conversation covers customer education strategies, production scaling, local collaborations, and balancing creative work with business growth.
Key Takeaways
Career Evolution: Zach transitioned from antique dealing to custom furniture, adapting his style based on customer needs.
Business Challenges: He faced significant hurdles during the pandemic, including layoffs and mental health struggles.
Sustainability & Craftsmanship: Zach advocates for heirloom-quality furniture and a shift away from disposable consumer culture.
Customer Education: Effectively marketing handmade products requires time, online showcases, and finding the right audience.
Growth Strategies: Scaling production, local collaborations, and balancing creativity with business logistics are key to future success.
Chapters
00:00 The Origins of 805 Woodworks
02:57 Crafting a Unique Style
05:54 Sourcing Materials and Building Relationships
08:45 Navigating Business Challenges and Mental Health
12:05 The Comeback Journey
14:59 The Value of Heirloom Furniture
17:55 Sustainability and Consumer Mindset
20:58 Finding the Right Customers
23:43 The Cost of Customer Education
24:41 Building the Mantle Business
26:44 Challenges in Scaling Production
32:52 Exploring Collaborative Opportunities
37:55 Finding Balance and Future Growth
You can connect with Zach at:
https://www.instagram.com/805woodworks/
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The Woodpreneur Podcast
We cover the business and marketing side of the sawmill, tree service, furniture making, Urban Wood, and woodworking industry. If you're a woodworker, sawmill owner, or any other entrepreneur and/or business owner in the wood industry, you need to check out this podcast.
Each week, we interview business owners, large-scale companies, entrepreneurs, makers, and designers while also offering marketing and business advice that will help you grow your business and increase your profits. Tune in every Thursday!
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