We had the good fortune of connecting with Brit West and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brit, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
II left the hard physical work breaking colts and bucking hay, and helping run my in-laws ranch, to pursue my life as a creative. It wasn’t easy, but I set goals, and told myself I would have my life back after a divorce that forced me into a new life. I went to school for massage, and was building hats and western jewelry on the side, until it really took off. I wanted my life back, to be on a ranch, have several horses and show. In order to do that I needed a lucrative business platform. God blessed me with a good eye and popular designs to bring to market.

I was once told you can serve the masses or you can serve the classes. Selling low priced product to many, or making high end product for discerning buyers. We produce product across the board, but I focus on the high end.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My story starts sitting on a film shoot, somewhere in East Asia, realizing that I needed to do something more purposeful with my life. I prayed a lot asking what I should do, and kept dreaming about horses, I knew I needed to get back to my roots. Two months later I moved to Durango Colorado where I cut my teeth as a rancher and outfitter. Let me tell you there is nothing better to teach you morality, work ethics and grit, than about 10 years of 16 hour days! I remember walking thru the 100’s of saddles on the ranch, intrigued with the old 1800’s high back saddles fender leathers, silver spotted parade bridles, Comstock and Visalia concho’s and old pawn silver. Each spring we would clean out the old saddle latigos and I thought to myself, this must be repurposed! I began saving and collecting, and out of this love sprung a creative, heartfelt journey called Brit West. I now travel to barns and saddle shops, always in search for the 1800’s teamster driving reins, and old retired cowboy leathers, that were used to form the American West. 100 year old leather requires hours of reclaiming, cleaning, conditioning, skiving, sanding and sealing to produce the back drops for our cuffs, hatbands, and belts. After too many “Critter Crunches” and a divorce I had to leave the ranch.  I did not listen to the doctors that told me I would never ride again after breaking my neck, or people who said I couldn’t have my own ranch. I persevered and hope that my story inspires other young woman to truly ask what their purpose is and pursue it. I am really a one woman show, surrounded by amazing artists that contract withe to build the line.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I probably would take them on a pack trip, to the Dununda waterfalls and hotsprings. Enjoy the rainbow at the falls while soaking in the springs, and cook on a wood fire and count the stars!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I thank God my angels and guides everyday.  Without the gifts He has given me I would never be where I am. Thank you for the abundance, courage and perseverance.

Website: britwest.net

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/britwest777/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/britwest.net

Image Credits
I shoot all my jewelry and clothing, so no credits needed.

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