Good things come to those who wait, but I’ve never been the patient type (hey maybe that’s why my career is currently in sales) but I was, however, patient to find a time between everyone’s busy schedules to connect with this volume’s two founders, and it was definitely worth the wait!

I had the opportunity to sit down and chat with artist Maggie Caravello and vintage store owner Maggie Zimpfer of by britton, to get a peek at the people and places that have helped shape what they do today.

For Maggie, the sights of Buenos Aires, along with the encouragement of friends, helped her find her voice as an artist. For Maddie, it was her grandfather, whose influence continues to show up in her personal style and the business she’s building today.

Different stories, different sources of inspiration, but a similar reminder: sometimes what inspires us most is a person or place that leaves a little mark on us, whether we realize it at the time or not.

And sometimes, we need a little help recognizing what’s already there. Maybe it’s a friend who sees something in you before you see it in yourself, a family member whose advice sticks with you for years, or someone who gives you the much-needed kick in the pants to finally go for it. 

Getting nosey with founders has made me appreciate just how many people and experiences find their way into the businesses we see today. Behind the products and pretty Instagram photos are the stories of people who encouraged them, places that changed their perspective, and little moments that helped them keep going. The finished product might have one person’s name on it, but there are often plenty of other people who helped inspire it along the way.

So, as you get to know Maggie and Maddie in Volume 7, think about the people who have given you a nudge, cheered you on, or reminded you what you’re capable of. We all need that to keep us going.