We had the good fortune of connecting with Eric Guzman and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a Woodworker that’s Dedicated to making products that are Made in America. Keeping the Rustic style of Art alive. In the beginning of our business we would take pictures of our products and other people would claim our picture as their own. We didn’t want to use a watermark to stop this, we had to think outside the box to prevent this from happening. I’ve always been silly and like to joke around. This made me think, lets just put me in the pictures making silly faces. It was my way to stop other businesses from claiming my pictures as their own. Little did we know that people would love this so we just kept making silly faces and adding props in the pictures.
I believe that art is a powerful tool that can be used to communicate, to connect with others, and to make the world a better place. I am passionate about using my art to make a difference in the world. I’ve had a few opportunities to share my Art/Products with People all over this nation along and even Internationally. By using Wood, we are able to bring to life our clients imagination.
I got to where I am today professionally through a lot of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. It wasn’t easy, but I was able to overcome the challenges by staying focused on my goals and never giving up.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was always feeling like I wasn’t good enough, and I was constantly worried about not being up to par with others in my field. I learned to push through those feelings and focus on my work. I also learned to surround myself with supportive people who believed in me.
Another challenge I faced was financial instability. I started my business during the Pandemic with no money and just being furloughed at my job. I had to learn how to make it work on a tight budget. I was able to do it by being frugal and resourceful. I also learned to ask for help when I needed it. Selling my first Product helped me acknowledge this fear of not being good enough. It gave me courage to continue and to grow as a Business Owner and help me become a leader to succeed.
I want the world to know that I am a passionate Woodworker who is dedicated to creating beautiful and functional pieces of Furniture/Decor. I am also a teacher and mentor who is committed to sharing my knowledge and skills with others.
I started my woodworking business in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. I was looking for a way to stay busy and productive, and I also wanted to find a way to express my creativity. Woodworking was the perfect outlet for me, and I quickly fell in love with the craft. We noticed online shopping was at its highest and during this time of struggle.We like to think because our Products are Made in America that we are not just a brand, we’re family.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First Place I want them to visit is the Goose Ranch. Goose Ranch is home to our business and family. We love spending time with family and friends here all while having a great time. It’s a great spot for Smoking Meats on the Grill while enjoying a bonfire and having a few drinks. It’s a Fun cozy spot we all enjoy. Being in Houston, a week is not enough time to enjoy it all. The Culture here in Houston is amazing. You could literally visit most of the world here with how diverse the culture is here.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My Wife and Family deserve a lot of credit and recognition in starting our business for a number of reasons. First, they provided me with emotional support and encouragement throughout the process. Starting a business is a lot of long working days and nights with a tight budget and constant stress of not knowing if you’re going to make it to the next week. It can be easy to get discouraged. Having a supportive network of family and friends can make all the difference.
Second, my Wife and Family have helped me with the practical aspects of starting our business. This includes things like helping you to create a business plan, marketing our business, or even just taking care of the family’s needs so that I could focus on work.
My Wife and Family have made many sacrifices to help me make this dream of starting our Business come true. Their own time and resources are just some of the sacrifices to help start our business. Putting their life on hold or even helping financially has been a blessing.
My Wife and Family played a vital role in the success of our business. They deserve a lot of credit and recognition for their hard work and support.
Website: rusticgoose.com
Instagram: @rusticgoose
Facebook: @rusticgoose
Youtube: Rustic Goose
Other: Tiktok @rusticgoose