ABOUT
Hey, I’m Gary. I’ve always had a love for woodworking, but for most of my life, it was something I did only when needed or when inspiration struck. That changed when I worked in law enforcement—the stress of the job was constant, and woodworking became my way to clear my mind, focus, and create something tangible in the middle of the chaos.
For years, I didn’t have a dedicated shop—I worked in the yard, on the porch, or anywhere I could find space. Then, my wife, Jessica—my biggest supporter—helped me get my first storage building, and that became my first real shop. It wasn’t much, but it was mine, I loved it, and it changed everything. I was able to spend more time in the shop, no matter the weather, and I just kept building more and more. My hobby quickly became a passion!
In 2023, we took the biggest leap of our lives, leaving behind a small town with less than 5,000 people to start fresh in a place with more opportunity. At first, I worked out of a Harbor Freight 10×10 shed and a pop-up canopy in Jessica’s sister’s backyard—humble beginnings for my first shop in this area, but it got the job done. Finally, we got our own place, with solid walls to work inside of, and that’s where Willow Lawn Woodcrafts is taking shape.
I put everything into the pieces I create—not just time, but genuine pride and care. I don’t believe in cutting corners or rushing through a build just to get it done. Whether it’s a magnetic knife block, a patio set, or a custom project, I pour my heart and soul into making sure it’s something you’ll be proud to own—built with quality, integrity, and attention to detail that lasts.
At the heart of Willow Lawn and all I do, my biggest motivation is Jessica and the life we’re building together. I want to give her the world, help her reach her dreams, and create a future where we can travel, experience life, and escape the grind when we want to.
Beyond the SHOP, I have also started the Willow Lawn Chronicles, where I share the journey—tool reviews, build overviews, life updates, and eventually a vlog. It’s my way of documenting this exciting adventure. I absolutely love knowing that pieces I’ve built by hand are becoming part of someone else’s home and everyday life.
Thanks for stopping by—I’m excited for what’s ahead, and I hope you’ll FOLLOW ALONG. Also, if you have an idea for a custom build or just want to chat about woodworking, CONTACT ME and let’s Build Something Special Together!