We had the good fortune of connecting with Tyson Myers and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Tyson, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
Acts of kindness – big and small, random and planned out. Time is truly the most precious resource. Life is busy and it’s easy to get into a routine. I am inspired by people who make time and are active in how they can make a positive impact in the community. I am amazed by individuals and organizations that have started movements, rallies, walks, runs… heck, their entire existence on serving others. These organizations make a big impact on the lives of many. Sometimes it is a small, random act of compassion that can also make a big impact. Ever have a shit day get turned around by some random gesture of human kindness from a friend, family member, or even a stranger? I have. It’s a breath of air during a time of stress that puts me in check and reminds me about what’s really important in life. Lumibean was started as a way to get involved and give back. Our vision is to turn everyday rituals into inspiration for doing good in the world. Sales support charitable organizations and we host giving campaigns that encourage direct participation in charitable events and ways to get involved in the community. Coffee, tea, and artwork share something in common: They provide a moment for pause, reflection, and inspiration. As you enjoy your delicious cup of coffee in the morning, sip an afternoon tea, or take in any of our artwork, we hope it brings a smile to your face knowing that you are giving back in doing so. We hope that it also inspires you to find additional ways to make the world a better place.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Lumibean started as a small coffee company. After creating our own artistic pieces for coffee bar décor, we expanded into design and woodworking to create unique and customized artwork for others to enjoy. I love the challenge of taking on a new project and attempting new concepts. I have a hard time landing on one style because half of the fun is trying something new. This has resulted in quite the eclectic array of wood creations from wood signs, backlit signs, lamps, plant stands, coasters, furniture… the possibilities are endless!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Arizona is a beautiful place to call home year-round, and come spring time, I don’t think there is anywhere else in the world I’d rather be. Spring training would definitely be on the itinerary, hiking in the McDowell Mountains (Gateway Loop is one of my favorite hikes), a day trip up to Sedona to hike Cathedral Rock would also be a must. The trip would not be complete without a tour around the many incredible local breweries, and of course we would have to hit up a few farmers/makers markets.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost our customers! It’s true that when you support local business an actual human does a little happy dance. My dance moves are terrible, but that doesn’t hold me back from a little groove when I see an order come in. There are many people who I am blessed to have made a connection with, who probably don’t realize the impact they have had on me and my business. These are all down-to-earth, hearts-of-gold individuals, who have shown gestures of good faith that I am forever grateful for: HUGE shout out to Lara and Joel at Arcadia Premium! You gave me a boost during a time that I was struggling and reopened my mind to possibilities and optimism. Backstory: We launched Lumibean at the end of 2019 with big dreams for big things. 2020 was a challenging year for all, myself included. Business plans destroyed by the pandemic, and adjusting to a new way of life challenged my spirit and took a toll on my mental health. I became very inactive pursuing any sort of business growth and considered closing up shop. Much of the year was on total pause. Towards the end of the year I stopped being so stubborn and listened to my better half who encouraged me to get back into the workshop. If anything it would be good for my mental health just to create something again. That turned out to be just the medicine I needed. With no plans for markets (or sales really), I was having fun working with my hands again. I gained enough courage to put myself out there again and started posting my wares on social media. By pure luck I made a connection with Arcadia Premium. I ended up making them something through a giveaway, and they were kind enough to take interest in other products I had to offer. Arcadia Premium has featured our products in their shop, giving us visibility to new customers. Having run Lumibean exclusively online, this was our first opportunity in a retail shop and real shelf space. Joel and Lara have provided encouragement and support that I am extremely grateful for. Big THANK YOU to Nick at Iconic Arizona, for being the first local business to take a chance on me and a new concept using their designs on wood medium. Lumibean had just recently launched, and we had no name or credibility built up around the business. Still, Nick was willing to explore and we joined forces on a project. Desert Bath Co. is another local business that has been extremely supportive and collaborative, featuring our coffee in gift packages and even adding our coffee grounds to their Coffee Addict Lip Scrub. Tiffany embodies the spirit of supporting local, and I am inspired by her creativity in all of her bath bomb creations. Kari and Tiffany from Vintage and Vino have welcomed us with open arms to the Sip & Shop location at San Tan Village. So grateful to have the opportunity to create our own little space within your shop! And last but not least, Stephanie Myers – my wife, best friend, and business partner. Thank you for your encouragement, honesty, strength, love, and time allowed for pursuing a dream when we have so much else going on in life.
Website: www.lumibean.com
Instagram: @lumibean
Facebook: @lumibean