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Meet the Manager - Ed D @ Store 701
MEET THE MANAGER
This week we're going to spend a few minutes getting to know Ed Dobrita- our manager of the Mississauga, Ontario, store 701!
Ed comes to leather crafting after his service with the military where he started making dog collars and leashes for working dogs. The business expanded and Ed started making custom, one-of-a-kind collars and was eventually sought out by more members of the community and began branching out into new arenas. He has also dabbled in the creation of other small projects like bracelets, wallets, small bags and belts. Often he found himself starting to create his own patterns, rather than relying on any pre-formed.
TENURE WITH TANDY
In the early 2000s Ed found Tandy Leather and in his own words, "made a second home out of it". The previous manager (who is still with Tandy!) made him feel welcome and helped him connect with the brand and the product. Upon being offered the Mississauga store five years ago, Ed accepted, saying, "I didn't have to think twice about it.
Although he has less time to do the leatherworking he loves because of his managerial duties, Ed enjoys being able to spend his time connecting with like minded customers, the opportunity to teach and inspire on a daily basis and even helping some committed customers turn their hobby into a small business.
IN THE COMMUNITY
On top of all of this good work, Ed reports chatting with fellow veterans who shop with him and has come to realize leathercrafting can be a great outlet for some of them suffering from PTSD. He works diligently to create programs and opportunities for these customers to get together and create together to help benefit them and their community. Thank you for your hard work, Ed!
AND FINALLY!
Make sure to drop by store 701 if you ever have the chance. Ed states he has always tried to lead by example, maintain a safe, clean and well-organized space that's well stocked and staffed. He works hard to make sure everyone that come sin feels welcome and has a great shopping experience, class or private one-on-one!
For more details about the store, location and class offerings follow this link!
Scroll down to look through some of Ed's beautifully crafted work and drop a comment with any feedback or questions you may have for him!
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