We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Bekah O’shea. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Bekah below.
Alright, Bekah thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.
When my family moved back to Montana to live on the ranch where my husband grew up, I envisioned starting a brand that told a story and wasn’t just fast fashion. I thought about beginning with quality leather belts, but had no experience in the field of leatherworking. My search began for unique colors and quality leather, but I couldn’t find anything that met my standards. That’s when I decided to visit a local leather store, where I ended up buying a side of leather, a strap cutter, and some dye. I’ll never forget walking in the door and telling my husband that I was gonna make them myself! I began my leatherworking journey crafting belts on my husband’s grandmother’s kitchen table. I was lucky enough to have an opportunity right away selling them at a local art shop, but it was when I decided to create my first bag that something special happened- everyone loved it! I guess I hadn’t expected that due to the raw nature of the design, but I now realize that the beauty in my creations lies in their simplicity. They aren’t elaborately constructed or intricately tailored; their charm is in the authenticity and personal touch of each piece. I think those who carry them appreciate the craftsmanship and the story behind each one. It has been incredibly rewarding to see my original vision come to life in such a meaningful and personal way.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I create heirloom-quality leather goods on our family’s generational cattle ranch at the base of the Beartooth mountains in Montana. Each piece is a one-of-a-kind work of wearable art, that infuses the spirit of old west and our life here. My husband, Bo, took up silversmithing and now makes goegeous, sterling silver adornments that grace many of my bags. I love mixing metals and textures with the raw beauty of leather and pour my heart into every creation. My passion for timeless design, the use of rare stones & unique leathers, I think, is what sets Ride Free apart. Our pieces aren’t just made to last—they’re made to tell a story, and to carry that story with you for a lifetime.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
I would say the best source of new clientele has been through collaborations with like-minded businesses! Coming up with new ideas to create something original with other artists brings me such joy! I’ve found some incredible people to collab with over the years and often times their clients/friends relate to me in some way. I feel that every person that has one of my creations would probably be a friend in real life if given the chance to meet!
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
Facing a cancer diagnosis was undoubtedly one of the most challenging experiences of my life. However, rather than allowing that to derail my ambitions, I chose to channel my energy into my work. Despite the physical and emotional toll, my passion kept me going in the most difficult times. This period of such adversity became a catalyst for one of my most favorite Collections: the creation of a unique, luxury bag line incorporating antique emblems from my favorite muscle cars! I found myself waking up in the early hours of the morning, heading down to my studio with a flashlight to get to work, inspired.
The “American Muscle“, classic car Collection represents not just a product, but strength, perseverance, and bravery. I feel each piece is a testament to overcoming obstacles and there were many. Incorporating the iconic, muscle car designs mixed with beautiful leathers became something all its own and very personal.
By refusing to let my illness define or limit me, I chose to trust God, appreciate moments of downtime to allow creativity to flourish and turned and incredibly hard chapter in my life into what I feel is a story of inspiration.
This collection stands as a reminder that even in the face of significant challenges, it is possible to follow your dreams. My journey, I feel, shows that resilience can lead to beauty and maybe in a some way, inspire others to pursue their passions, no matter the obstacles they encounter.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Ridefreemontana.com
- Instagram: @ridefreemontana
- Facebook: @montanaleatherart. Ride Free MT
