Meet Steven Benson. The owner of a San Francisco Butcher Shop, located in Redwood City, CA. This man took a leap of faith and is still dreaming big while rocking a beard! We had the privilege to interview him and hear how he started his business. We were so intrigued to know how he does what he does and still rock his beard! Read more...
Where are you located?
Located in San Francisco,CA
What is it that you do?
Currently the owner of a craft butcher shop called 'Gambrel & Co.
When did you realize that this is what you wanted to pursue?
I've been a butcher for 13 years now, and it was a dream of mine to open my own shop. A year ago it was just time to take the leap and haven't looked back since.
Describe a few steps you took to make this happen.
Locking down the right location was important. And once that was complete the real fun started. Just my business partner and I and one friend built out the location. We all had full time jobs so it was a lot of sleepless nights. Then my favorite part was visiting all the local ranches and locking down where we would source our product from. The whole thing was quite an experience.
What are some of your accomplishments as a beard grower?
Just generally looking awesome! Haha just kidding. But really I'd say finding the woman who's become the love of my life. Not sure I would have stood out enough if I was baby faced. I've also had the opportunity to work with a few photographers and clothing company's because of it.
What do you believe makes a quality beard?
Genetics and lots of maintenance. Having a good beard is more work than shaving surprisingly.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
my beardspiration?! My inspiration to start came from my deep seeded hatred for shaving for work. But now I would say I'm inspired by a few of the "bearded models" out there because I would love to do that on the side.
What advice do you have for aspiring beard?
Unless you can grow a full beard... Don't, just don't. You'll think it looks good but you just look silly. But for those that can.. Do!! You owe it to those that can't. And plus chicks dig it.
Did you ever think you would be where you are today?
Definitely not. And I'm not sure where along the road things steered me here but I couldn't be happier and more appreciative of where I've wound up.
Where can readers find out more about you?
You can find me on Instagram as "The_mad_butcher" or follow my butcher shops Facebook "Gambrel &Co."
