Missouri Woodworks started as a small cabinet company. When Chris joined in, he changed the focus to high end custom woodworking and kitchenware, with an emphasis on online sales through Etsy and other E-Commerce options, including Amazon as well as a company website.
With this shift in focus, the company was able to grow from a bare bones operation into the top 3% of Etsy stores world wide in just under one year. The company was able to expand and focus exclusively on custom jobs, allowing employees to showcase their creativity and skillset as well as get out of the laborious and monotonous life of cabinet making. Every product sold was visualized, designed, photographed, listed, and managed by Chris.
Some notable customers that requested and received custom work from Chris include:
- A Presentation Serving Board at Arrowhead Stadium for the Kansas City Chiefs team dining room
- A Custom cutting board for Santana and Chicago’s esteemed drummer, Walfredo de los Reyes
- A high-end wine display piece for Barth Real Estate
- Several charcuterie displays for the cast of Real Housewives of Salt Lake
Squid was started in 2012 as a small basement operation by Chris and his business partner. By 2014, Squid Prints had become the largest go-to screen printing company north of the river in Kansas City. Squid Swim was opened shortly after in 2015, with a focus on the competitive swimwear and training gear market, also becoming Kansas City’s largest competitive swim store that following year.
As the owner of both, Chris carried several duties, tasks, and responsibilities to ensure the constant growth and success of his businesses. From client to supplier meetings down to all graphic work and marketing, he was behind Squid in every way possible. The business was sold in 2018 to pursue other interests.
Awards and Partnerships:
- Squid Swim partnered with Boys and Girls Club KC, hosting underprivileged athletes in obtaining gear and club team memberships.
- NKC School District Business Partners of the Year 2017
- Partner in Northland CAPS 2016-2018
- Partners in Education Oak Park High School and Linden West Elementary
- n2 Sports Sponsor and partnership 2017-2018