Today we’d like to introduce you to Paul Miller.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Paul. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I have tried to work the normal 9 to 5s but just couldn’t find myself. Then my wife and I purchased our home I decided to build a few original pieces for it in order to give it more of a personal feel rather than a store bought feeling. My wife knew I was creative but was pretty shocked at some of the things I was able to create as were some of our friends. Upon my wife’s encouragement to do more woodworking 7M was created. Over the last 3+ years I have been able to turn a small hobby into a career that allows me to explore my creativity and share it with others. None of this could have been done without the support and encouragement of my wife. There is
Has it been a smooth road?
I’m not sure starting your own company can ever be easy. Shortly after I started 7M my wife gave birth to our first son. It was very difficult to start a business, be a husband and be a new father all at the same time. Not having a regular paycheck just added to it. There were several times where I almost quit and went back to a more regular job.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
7M Woodworking is an extension of me. I get to create original wood pieces, Tables, benches, sculptures… anything that I can think up. Some of my light fixtures have become the most popular.
I am the most proud of the fact that I get to create, have fun and share my work with other people as a job. That is awesome!!!
What sets me apart? I guess it would be that I consider myself as more of an artist then a woodworker. I’m not building someone else idea, I am building my own. I take pride in what I am making and want to give my clients a great piece of my work. I get more out of seeing someone love my work then I do the money I get from it. My wife isn’t as excited by that as I am 🙂
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Chicago is a great place for artists/woodworkers. There are so many other artists/woodworkers who are able, willing to and excited about helping someone new get started. There is inspiration everywhere in the city. Not just from the many artists and amazing art here but from the city itself. I love to walk around the city before the city awakes and just go exploring. There is so much that we miss when the city is awake.
For someone just starting out I recommend meeting others who do the same type of work or who have started something that they are just as passionate about as you are. They are the best people to help guide you on your way.
Contact Info:
- Website: 7mwoodworking.com
- Phone: 3125450331
- Email: paul@7mwoodworking.com
- Instagram: 7mwoodworking
- Facebook: @7mwoodworking
- Twitter: @7mwoodworking
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
