Dallas Safari Club 2016

After our first year at the Dallas Safari Club Convention, I can safely say we will definitely be back next year. Not only were we in awe of the cool people we met, but also the vendors were incredible! Coming from all over the globe, the categories ranged from safaris and land leases to precious jewelry and off road vehicles. However, of course our favorites fell into the western realm and even more importantly, the products that we loved most were all hand made with love and care here in the USA just like Paul Bond Boots. Here are a few of our favorites:

1) Rand's Custom Hats

Over the past year we have met Ritch Rand and his lovely wife Neta several times on the road. Each time, I am so impressed with their variety of work and passion for what they do. Having been in business for over 30 years, they have certainly mastered the technique of hat making. While I have yet to decide on the exact hat I want, trust me, a Rand custom hat is in my near future!

 

2) Montana Watch Company

Up until this past weekend I was not familiar with the Montana Watch Company. Luckily for me, I have finally been enlightened to the wonders of old world timepiece craftsmanship. Not only is their work beautifully made, but it also pays homage to the designs of early American watchmakers. If you are the market for something truly unique, this is the place to go. Personally, I am eyeing this beauty!

P.S. Ask for Melanie, she is a sweetheart!

3) Clint Orms Engravers and Silversmiths

Unlike some of the other vendors, I have been familiar with Clint Orms for a good while as we both share the good ole' hometown of Wichita Falls, Texas. To put it simply, his belt buckles are pure masterpieces. The intricacy of his designs and level of craftsmanship makes all of Clint's pieces timeless - certainly something to pass on through the generations.

Speaking of Wichita Falls, come see us this May for Boots, Buckles and Bourbon! More details coming soon.

4) Western Grace

While Western Grace did not set up this year, we were able to meet the lovely up and coming designer Jesse Smith. She makes beautiful pieces, many with hand tooled leather accents. Here she is below (right) with one of our all time favorite customers, both in their Paul Bonds!

The moral of this blog post is essentially to celebrate other artisans, who like Paul Bond Boots, aim to keep the world of bespoke craftsmanship alive in the U.S. Another takeaway would include this simple fact - if you did not attend this year, please come out next year, you won't regret it!

 

 

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