About Me

About Us

How it began

Growing up with a father who was a master carpenter he taught his three daughters everything he knew, or should I say everything we would pay attention to at the time! He passed away in 2008. I still have a few treasured pieces he made for each of us, but I fondly remembered how he enjoyed his craft and took great pride in his work.

Life has taken some tough turns since then, as it does for all of us. I was diagnosed with a degenerative bone disease at the age of 25. Multiple surgeries, two hip replacements that have been less than ideal, and constant pain made it increasingly difficult to maintain a traditional 9-5 job working in the aerospace industry. However, I have found a blessing from it all as it brought me closer to the things my dad taught us and loved so much. During my tough times and bad days, I can always find a sense of relief and peace as I set out to create another custom piece of work.

However, as much as I find solace in my craft, I couldn’t do it without my best friend, my boxer Duncan. I have always loved animals, especially dogs. After having a bonded, pair of German Shepard mixes for 16 years, I was heartbroken when they passed. Duncan and I found each other in 2019 at the local ASPCA. I was told that he had been brought in via animal ambulance near death. They suspected he had been used in dog fighting as a bait dog and it showed, he had scars everywhere.

He was also heartworm positive and needed several treatments and follow-up care. There was an instant bond with him that told me that I had to take a chance with this guy, he deserved so much better. So I filled out the paperwork, paid the adoption fee, and off to PetSmart we were for our new beginning. After stopping for a new collar, leash, food, and of course a ton of toys and treats we headed home. I pulled into the driveway and opened the truck door. He bolted out and ran straight to the front door (of the correct house!), it was as if he had been there before and knew he was home. He hasn’t left my side since.

At that time, and still to this day, I see Duncan and myself as kindred spirits. Each fighting our own battle, much like I suspect we each are every day, in our own way. Thankfully all of Duncan’s heartworm treatments were successful and he has been heartworm free ever since (I make sure to get his preventative so that NEVER is an issue ever again for him). Duncan has been trained as a service dog since then and he now accompanies me everywhere, we are inseparable.

Over time, I was able to acquire a good set of tools and fine tune my craft and Duncan and I would spend our days working on pieces in the shop. Initially I would gift Items here and there to family and friends to get feedback. Most feedback I received was great, though every once in awhile I would mess something up, we are all human. Eventually, as my feedback became more and more positive, with the help of some special friends and those close to us, I had the courage to start up a small business, selling the items that Duncan and I spend our time making.

We started a small website and opened a booth at a local flea market. After finding out how very difficult it is to start up your own business, we employed the assistance of a professional company to help us design a logo and a more professional website, and that is where we are today. Hope Chest Custom Creations!

We are constantly expanding into different markets to try to make the most of all the skills and equipment we have available. Not only do we now do custom woodworking, but we also do various engraving (flasks, pint glasses, wine glasses, acrylic lights, pet ID tags, and coasters just to name a few), we have started a candle line, stovetop covers, epoxy resin charcuterie boards, various poured epoxy resin projects. If you have a pet as special as Duncan is to me, I would love to help you honor your best friend with engraved bowls, collar tags, got a favorite picture? I would love to duplicate it with a laser image to lovingly display.

If you can think of it, we will do everything in our power to make your project a reality!

Please take a look at our photo gallery and email blondi@hopechestcustomcreations.com for any custom orders that you would like. Duncan and I look forward to hearing from you and making this business a success!