Meet Eryn Beechey of REI in Paradise Valley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Eryn Beechey.

Eryn, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Growing up, I was always passionate about food and how meals bring people together. I started in the food industry pretty young and went to college in Flagstaff to peruse a degree in hospitality. At one point I was working three jobs while being a full time student. I had two serving gigs and also a job as an office assistant. This work ethic groomed me for the demanding lifestyle I headed towards in restaurant management. I came back to the valley after I graduated and worked as a manager for a few large restaurant names. After about five years of grinding away in restaurant operations, I made a transition to an outdoor retailer for the sake of my mental and physical health. I took a step back from what I thought I wanted in the hospitality business and focused on myself in other ways. I had found a great work environment that understood the importance of work-life balance and advocated for it. This is when I connected with my passion for the outdoors. I had found my solace.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Smooth road? More like a road trip through peaks and valleys. I think my motto is to learn from every experience. Good, bad, and everything in between. No one likes to make the same mistake twice, so don’t. If you mess up, don’t do it again. Learn from the bad times and move on. Learn from the good times and keep those in mind for when you’re going through rough roads.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
Working for REI is something I’m proud of. We live and breathe the culture of life outdoors is a life well lived. We teach our community to be stewards of the outdoors and educated them about sustainability and LNT (leave no trace). When you become more aware of your daily impact on the environment, it’s eye opening. It’s not about making a big change, it’s about getting the masses to make little changes along the way. I think this movement sets us apart in a big way. We don’t just talk the talk, we walk the walk. We are out there doing things and leading by example.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
All my teammates are amazing. I learn so much from them everyday. They challenge and inspire me to get out of my comfort zone. I feel very supported by my professional and personal communities.

Contact Info:

• Email: erynmbeechey@gmail.com
• Instagram: @3b33ch

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