Rising Stars: Meet Brandon Burkett of Loveland, CO

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brandon Burkett.

Hi Brandon, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I have always been fascinated with building; Legos as a kid, “How it’s made” as a teen, beginner woodworking as a young adult.

I always knew I’d be working in some sort of creative field eventually. For a while, the closest field I could find was construction, and I still do a decent amount of construction work as well. Hardwood Flooring installation and refinishes mostly.

The real good stuff though is the custom woodwork. When someone comes to me and says “I have this idea…”, that’s the stuff that makes my soul sing. I love the creativity and problem solving involved in creating a thing from scratch that you can’t get anywhere else. Custom Woodwork. That’s my “life’s purpose.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s been *relatively* smooth. For about 10 years, the creative work I did was on the side. Things would come every now and then, but not enough to pay the bills.

About 2 years ago, the requests sort of got to a tipping point. Things got to point where I either had to decline custom requests, or take them on and quit my 9-5.

I chose the latter, and the work has been consistent since then. It was a terrifying choice, but also the best choice I’ve ever made!

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in all things wood. If you’ve got a project involving wood, I am more than happy to take it on. That’s custom shelves, hardwood floors, a wooden replica sword. Anything!

I’d say what sets me apart is my willingness to take on extremely niche projects. The more unique and unusual the better for me.

One of my most proud projects was a Custom wooden sword from Adventure time that a couple actually used to cut the cake at their wedding. Being able to fulfill such a unique dream for someone on their special day was such an honor.

How do you think about happiness?
Seeing someone light up when a project is complete is such a good feeling.
It makes me happy because it makes them happy. Being able to create and deliver a thing that has only existed in someone’s mind makes me feel like my life has true meaning!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://TakayamaWoodshop.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takayamawoodshop/