By Admin, BuyLocalBG.com, BuyLocalBg@gmail.com/
Monday, September 19th, 2016 10:00 AM CST
Get to Know Our Newest Partner, Ben Hughes, From Bluegrass Beams. Click here to see some of their work. On to the questions:
1. Tell us a little about you as a person.
I’m 29 years old, married (Jenna). I’m originally from London, KY but I have lived in BG for 11 years. I love to fish and travel. Jenna and I collect National Parks.
What prepared me most for running my own business would be 1. My education (Bachelor in Hospitality Management from WKU) and 2. Working in retail management for 4 years after college.
2. What is your earliest memory of your work, what got you interested in it?
I grew up working construction with my dad so I’ve always known how to use tools and build things. My passion for woodworking, however, began while I was still in retail. I built a couple of small things for our house and that turned into a few more things. After that I knew I had to make a career out of it.
3. What is your favorite job you’ve done so far?
My favorite job so far is a house I just finished working in that will be in this year’s Parade of Homes. In this house I made 5 mantles, installed the reclaimed floor, and made 19 custom floor vents.
4. Who are your influences in life and your work?
My work influences are my dad and countless other woodworkers who have come before me. My life influences are my wife, my parents, and a handful of very close friends.
5. If you had to choose a last meal, what would you eat doesn’t have to be local?
My last meal would be a Duck Dog (hotdog) with Fois Gras and Duck Fat Fries from Hot Doug’s in Chicago.
6. How important is local business collaboration to you?
Local business collaboration is vital to me because most of my work comes from area homebuilders.
7. What are three things people should know when they approach you to do a custom job?
I don’t just do rustic, I can and will build any style of furniture. I love building from my own design but if someone wants me to copy something they’ve seen online or in a magazine that’s perfectly fine too. If they’re ordering a mantle, know how wide the chimney is.
8. What other locally owned businesses in town do you enjoy shopping, eating or patronizing?
My 2 most-frequented local businesses are Home Café and The Woodworks.
9. Where is the future of your industry heading to?
I hope the future of commissioned woodwork is going modern. I don’t see the desire for handmade, quality furniture diminishing anytime soon.
10. How hard is it to start a local business and what advice would you give someone who is looking to start one in Southern Kentucky?
If you’re starting a business where you’ll be making things it can be difficult. If you don’t follow some sort of budget your overhead can get out of control when you’re constantly buying new tools. Also, educate yourself on all aspects of taxes and how to stay legal with all necessary licenses.
It’s pretty simple to contact them via their website form or by calling,(606) 312-2625. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram and check them out on their website Bluegrassbeams.com
