Today we’d like to introduce you to Ian Byrne.
Ian, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I remember clearly when I was 4 years old that I was going to have my own woodworking company and also be a drummer in a rock band.
I emigrated from Avoca, Co. Wicklow, Ireland, in 1987. I arrived on a Sunday and immediately started working in the remodeling industry on Monday. The reason why I decided on Kansas City is that my wife is from KC. We also had a 6-month-old son at that time. I had a total of $130 to my name when I arrived in this country. I needed to get to work right away. I worked hard and saved up enough money to purchase some power tools and hand tools. I worked every day during the week in my remodeling job and every evening and weekend developing my woodworking business.
I started my company, Byrne Custom Woodworking, in 1990. For my first shop, a friend of mine let me borrow half of his garage. Not a lot of room, but I had all the equipment on wheels, so I could maneuver the tools around the space as needed. Over the years, I made several moves to larger shops and also took on some employees. I now have a 20,000 sq ft facility with 15 employees. We are very blessed to have all the work we can handle, specializing in high-end woodworking. We specialize in Liturgical Furnishings, Country Club remodels, as well as all types of commercial and residential cabinets. My other 4-year-old aspiration came true in 2002 when I joined a Kansas City-based Celtic rock band, “The Elders.” I am the singer with this band and play some whistle, Bodhran (Irish Traditional Drum) and yes, the drums. We have toured the World and produced 10 albums of original songs.
I love the people and this incredible country. I consider it a blessing and a privilege to be here with my darling wife, three children, five grandchildren, my super-talented workmates and my amazingly talented band-mates.
Life is good
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Typical business issues, material availability. up-charging with material expenses. Skilled and committed employees. COVID. Industrial rental space increases.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
We specialize in a lot of projects that other shops do not want to deal with. We design and build Liturgical Church furnishings. We design and build custom furniture for homes and offices. We have a division for manufacturing custom plantation shutters. Our versatility has enabled us to survive trend changes and competition. If the budget is accepted, I can do it!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My wife whom I first met in Ireland way back in the seventies, has been my rock and inspiration. Business can be hard and unforgiving sometimes. Everyone needs that rock to steady as you go. John Sullivan, a famous KC banker gave me my first loan. He also gave me lots of valuable advise as well as many other people whom I have met along the road of this sometimes bumpy world.
Contact Info:
- Website: www,byrnecustomwood.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ByrneWoodworking#
