Sometimes, life has a way of leading us back to where we started—but with a new perspective and deeper purpose. That’s exactly what happened with North-Made, a passion project rooted in helping Midwest entrepreneurs and start-ups build compelling brand stories. After a period on sabbatical, the project is back, infused with fresh energy, hard-earned insights, and a renewed commitment to supporting great ideas that deserve to be heard.
The break wasn’t accidental. It came when I decided to take on a new challenge: starting my own company. Leaving North-Made on pause was bittersweet, but I knew the journey would give me invaluable perspective. Over the years of building my business, I experienced firsthand the incredible highs and inevitable struggles that come with entrepreneurship. I felt the pressure of wearing a thousand hats, the sting of mistakes made, and the hard-earned pride that comes with each small victory.
And I learned. Oh, did I learn.
Those years weren’t just about building a business—they were about building resilience, empathy, and understanding. I gained a deeper appreciation for the challenges entrepreneurs face when resources are thin, time is tighter, and the sheer weight of trying to grow something meaningful can feel overwhelming. I also realized just how crucial a strong brand and a clear story are to overcoming those hurdles.
That realization sparked a return to my roots. Branding and marketing have always been my true north—the place where creativity meets strategy, where ideas come alive, and where connections are built. But now, I came back with a richer toolkit: real-world lessons, practical knowledge, and a stronger desire to share what I’d learned to help others navigate their own entrepreneurial journeys.
So, North-Made is back. It’s still the same heart-forward project focused on giving back to the community, but with a sharper focus and deeper intention. My goal is to not just help brands tell their stories, but to equip founders with insights to avoid some of the pitfalls I stumbled into along the way. This isn’t just about making a company look good—it’s about helping entrepreneurs build something sustainable, strategic, and true to their vision.
The Midwest is filled with incredible ideas, grit, and potential. With North-Made’s revival, my hope is to serve as a resource and partner for those who need a hand turning their dreams into reality. To the creatives, the entrepreneurs, and the dreamers: let’s connect, collaborate, and create something that matters. Because when one of us succeeds, our whole community grows stronger.
Here’s to coming full circle—and to building something great, together.
