Today we’d like to introduce you to Rusty Carpenter.
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
I moved to KC in 2014 for my career with the railroad. Unfortunately, I went through a mass Management layoff with that company. After that, I did a quick 1-year job as a Safety Manager for a local asphalt company and, again, as luck would have it, another layoff. If I were going to work as hard as I have been for others and never have enough time for family or friends, I would start my own business and work hard for myself. I have been buying and selling stuff since I was about 20, so I started buying and selling antiques and collectibles full-time. This took off quickly, so I started my auction company Carpenter’s Classics. Mainly deal in old gas station and country store-type stuff, but I have also sold some old-fashioned farm auctions and other types of sales. That brings us up to speed to the current day, where we are selling live Facebook auctions and in-person and online-only sales.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
Overall, it has been a good road, but it is hard to say it’s perfect since I always strive to improve the company. My inner drive tells me it’s never good enough, but that’s good for my customers and family. You need drive and determination if you are going to make it having your own business.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Carpenter’s Classics?
I want my customers to know that when dealing with Carpenter’s Classics, they get an honest, hard-working group. We will do what you want us to do and if we see a better path for your belongings, we will come forward and tell you our opinion so that you know the other options out there. We specialize in antiques and collectibles but focus on old gas station and country store-type items such as gas and oil signs, oil cans, old gas pumps, gas globes, old guns, knives, and everything that goes along with those. We are willing to auction or buy collections directly from owners if they prefer. I believe my honesty and integrity set me apart from others, which I have worked very hard to build and maintain. one of my favorite sayings is, “Lying is not a sales tactic.” Even if the truth means my company is not best suited to sell your items, I will be upfront with that. It always comes back around, and there is always plenty of stuff to sell without lying or cheating. I am most proud of when I hear people have had conversations about me or my company. It gets back to me that it was mentioned how well the sale was run or how people were overheard talking highly of me or my company name.
Another thing I am incredibly proud of is that my daughter works with me each summer while she is also a full-time college student. She works hard, and I can trust her to do exactly as I would when I’m not around. She makes my life easier in the summer months for sure. Regarding Carpenters’ Classics, I want the readers to know that we offer an auction service, auction brokering, appraisal, and buying collections outright.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Honesty and Integrity
Contact Info:
