Life and Work with Ali Mathers

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ali Mathers.

Ali, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
In my mid-20s, I learned about “Pinterest” and I became infatuated with all DIY projects. My projects started small and most were things for my home, but then, I decided to make a wood sign for a bridal shower. This is when things took an unexpected, yet very exciting turn for me. Shortly after, I started receiving custom sign requests from friends and family, and since I was still learning the tricks of wood working I had my husband help me with the construction of the signs. Fortunately for me, that didn’t last very long. His work schedule would get hectic, so I was forced to learn how to do things on my own. This was also around the same time I became pregnant, so running a business and learning how to be a mother was quite the adventure! But hey, when life hands you lemons… become a stay at home mom who builds things!

When I first started, I thought it was going to be a fun hobby, but thanks to the support of my family and friends it turned into a business. I have the privilege of creating one of a kind wood signs and other unique designs for homes all around the valley.

Has it been a smooth road?
I never imagined myself being a sign maker. I never imagined myself having a “9 to 5” career either. My desire in life was to get married and raise a family, to do my best at being the best wife and mother. I love my business so much, but it can sometimes take over the other important things in my life. It can be stressful and very overwhelming but I’ve learned what helps me get through the obstacles. Have you ever just demolished something or beat the shit out of a pallet? Try it. Seriously though, working with wood is my therapy. So, even though it can be stressful, it also helps me destress.

All I can say to anyone beginning their journey is to not forget about yourself and the ones that matter most to you. If you work from home, creating work hours is very important and it’s something I am still battling. We all still need to take time for ourselves. No matter how busy you can be at work, know that it is okay to be selfish at times.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Doh Doh’s Custom Handcrafted Designs – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Most of the pieces I do are custom created by the customer. It’s what makes me most proud as a small business owner; creating a relationship. I love taking their ideas, hearing their stories and turning it into a piece of art for their home. My materials used are a variety of wood, but my personal favorite is working with old pallet wood and other reclaimed wood. I love taking something that is considered trash and useless and turning it into something beautiful and fresh. For the painted designs, it’s very rare that you will see fine lines and a smooth surface. In my eyes, the more beat up the wood and design are, the better. I am not afraid to freehand and I’m a huge fan of imperfections. I appreciate the true homemade and worn outlook. I feel like that is what sets me apart from other sign makers.

Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
I know plenty of women who have taken on a leadership role in all lines of work, and they were able to do it because they worked their asses off. I feel everyone deserves to succeed in life but one of the biggest barriers one has is putting in the time and the effort that it takes to actually earn it. Nothing comes easy! Find your strong support system, stay motivated and do everything you can to be the leader you were meant to be.

Pricing:

• Prices for most wood signs range from $25 to $150 depending on size and detail

Contact Info:

• Phone: 602-531-9945
• Email: dohdohsboutique@gmail.com
• Instagram: @dohdohs_handcrafteddesigns
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/dohdohsdesigns

Image Credit:
nic dudek photo

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