THE BEGINNING Our story started years ago as I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit. However, it wasn't until 2009 that Out West started taking shape.
I was working in a tourist venue and every day listened to one main question from our customers, "Where are all your locally made products?". It was a good question, and a frustrating one as we had made several requests from our buyers for the same thing. After awhile I decided that instead of waiting on someone else I would just do it!
So in August 2009 I began the process of planning, praying, and laying the ground work for Out West Gifts. The most important thing for Out West Gifts was that every product had to be hand-crafted, be of fine quality, and the artist had to live and work right here in the Rocky Mountains. I had two reasons for this:
1. Meet a need for people to find locally made products easily. 2. Support and grow our local economy.
We were in the heart of the recession nationally and some thought it was crazy to start a business in the middle of a recession, but our provision comes from God and we knew if we were obeying Him it would be just fine.
On October 7, 2009 we officially opened for business and it has been one year of tremendous growth and adventure!
My husband now joins me full time and we both are passionate about what we do.
SPIRIT OF EXCELLENCE At Out West Gifts we don't want to just provide fabulous products, but we want our business to be established on principles of EXCELLENCE and REAL customer service. While we hope to grow every year, we hope we never get too big for our "britches" so that we can always offer personal, one-on-one customer service. THE ARTISTS Our artists are the heart of our business. We have taken the time to get to know the artists we have chosen to work with. The relationship between Out West Gifts and our artists is very important. The products we carry are a reflection of the people who make them. It represents a lot of hard work and talent and we are very proud of the work they do.
BEYOND OUT WEST Giving back is what we are about. We take to heart what the Bible says about taking care of the poor, widows, and orphans. So at Out West Gifts we support charities in the community and world wide. Visit our "Favorite Things" page to see the links of some of the charities we work with and more. We encourage you to give back as well. You'll find you will receive more than you give!
Thank you for visiting our website! We sure do appreciate it. Take time to browse and see if there is anything for your home or for a gift. And please be sure to let us know of your thoughts or comments! Blessings on you and your family,
