All Over Albany

South End Pallet Works

Project: South End Pallet Works, a woodworking business that creates tables and other products from reclaimed wood.

Who: Sean Desiree

Short bio
I am a musician who has consistently struggled to maintain a traditional job, while trying to pursue a career in music. After leaving my job at the State Tax Department in 2012 I knew I needed to find a way to make money independently. I came across woodworking through my desire to own a farm table. The cost of buying one ranges between $400-$2,000, which is outside of my price range. I read a few articles about people reclaiming pallets and turning them into furniture. I took the initiative to try to make one on my own and was successful. I have since grown my skills and created an Etsy shop where I currently sell dinning, coffee and console tables to the public.

A description of the proposed project
Currently, I sell only tables exclusively through Etsy. My goal this summer is to both grow my business locally and include more wood products. I am proposing to introduce my tables to the upstate and New York City market by participating in farmers, artisan and craft markets. This will enable me to reach more customers, interact with the public and get valuable feedback to continue to create products that people want. The funding will also allow me to expand the products I offer to include cutting boards, mailboxes, and bookcases. I should get the funding because I am creating a sustainable product, and transforming otherwise discarded material into something beautiful and functional. There will always be a market for furniture and with the rate of garbage that accumulates each year, I am helping to reduce the waste and educate people about the power of up-cycling. Additionally, making tables allows me to contribute to my family in both money and time, because as an entrepreneur I have more freedom.

How would the grant money help?
The funding will be used to cover the costs of vender fees at various markets; pay for several promotional items to advertise my products at my display booth; help develop a website, and purchase one new woodworking tool. I believe investing in a quality booth and website is a crucial part of branding and growing my business. Purchasing a router will allow me to expand the products and designs I offer, and attending local markets will increase my exposure to the public.

Vendor fees $450 ($15-80 each fair, and I plan to attend 2-3 fairs per week)
Cloth Advertising Banners $80
Folding Table $60
Router Tool $200
Recycled Business Cards $120
Canopy $150
Website $500