Andrew is constantly on me about writing more Industry Insight articles as a part of our sponsorship package. Installing and supporting apparel software is not the most exciting thing to write about. I decided to do something different, and tell a little story.
Approximately three years ago I received a phone call from a Tiffany Montgomery, asking me if she could meet with me to talk about sponsoring a new website she had launched called Shop-eat-surf.
My first response was, Shop-Surf-What? As I was about to blow her off, she indicated that Frank Kaufman from Moss Adams had referred her to me. I have the utmost respect for Frank, and decided I had nothing to lose to have a short meeting with Tiffany. When I sat down with Tiffany, I was just struck with how sweet and down to earth she was. It was like I was talking to a friend of mine for twenty years. I know most of you have met Tiffany, so I don’t believe I have to say much more about this fantastic person.
So she proceeded to tell me about her thoughts about the website, and the industry leaders she was going to interview, etc. To be honest, I was thinking that those were some pretty lofty goals. Well, her personality and vision won me over. I decided on the spot, that I would sponsor Shop-eat-surf. One decision I made, that I will never regret. I figured if she could charm me the way she did, that it was only a matter of time that Shop-eat-surf would take off. I obviously did not expect what was about to happen.
Well look at where Shop-eat-surf is today. She obviously had a vision, and tirelessly worked hard to make Shop-eat-surf the number one go to spot for information in the action sports industry. I would have never have believed it would be where it is at today. The interviews, and the information that she has brought to Shop-eat-surf is just simply awesome. The Executive Roundtables are interesting, informative, and truly a lot of fun. It has been an honor to sponsor the wonderful work that Tiffany and Andrew have been doing. You guys rule!
To all of my friends, colleges, bosses, people that I look up to, and all readers in general, I enjoy being able to sponsor Shop-eat-surf. I honestly believe that Tiffany and Andrew have brought our awesome community together in a way that no one could have ever imagined. I will continue to sponsor Shop-eat-surf in the future, for Tiffany, Andrew, and all the cool people that help make this industry so great.
Andrew always tells me, this is an opportunity to get your story out there. So, to make Andrew happy, if you are looking for the most kick-ass apparel software on the market, give me a call.
In closing, I would like to take this opportunity to send my condolences to the entire LRG family, in the untimely passing of an industry icon, Jonas Bevacqua. You will be missed, but your legacy will live on.
Peace –
Joseph R. Schaefer
