Today we’d like to introduce you to Tommy Cottam.
Hi Tommy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My brother and I, Jeff, both natives of Milwaukee, were both living out west (Venice Beach, CA and Las Vegas) and we really got into surfing and motorcycles, and both of these lifestyles really collide out there. When we moved back to Milwaukee, we found that there was not only a really strong motorcycle and riding culture (duh!) but also a really interesting surf culture all around the Great Lakes. We wanted to bring our passion for these two activities to life by way of a lifestyle brand, Surfing Iron. The name is inspired by the iron-rich lakes of Lake Superior, infused by the iron-rich land up that way and home to the iron mines that helped build the US. We try to shine a light on local artists, photographers, makers, etc., and get out there whenever we can.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Our Surfing Iron brand is not a wild success, but it’s ours and those that know it seems to love it. We obviously are not for everyone but we are inviting and welcoming anyone in. The challenge in getting the word out about a startup, regionally-focused lifestyle brand, especially launching during Covid, is pretty substantial. But it’s manageable, we enjoy it and we’re having a great time spreading the good word when we can.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Tommy Cottam is a marketing professional and Jeff Cottam works in law enforcement and pre-trial case management.
How do you think about luck?
We are eternal optimists so we believe in what we are doing and that we can resonate with folks when we explain to them what Surfing Iron is all about. We also know that we would never have a chance to grow this unless we faced our fears and went for it and went Live. You’ll do yourself no favors letting an idea stew around in between your ears. It will haunt you and you will always wonder what would have been. We are not betting the farm on the brand, but we enjoy building this together, getting out on the waves, and getting out on the road together.
Pricing:
- Pricing ranges from $15-$45
Contact Info:
- Website: www.surfingiron.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/surfingiron/?hl=en
