Cheers to Three Years: Q&A with Carrie Gebb
Three years ago, Driftwood opened it's doors in the quaint little town of Makawao. No one could predict what would come of this new business, not even shop owner + visionary, Carrie Gebb. We sat down with Carrie to get the inside scoop on how it feels to be the ripe age of three- an amount of time that has allowed her to establish a beaten path of her own, while continually making space to improvise and adapt along the way.
Can you share the biggest lesson you've learned since starting Driftwood? A lesson that I continue to learn is to trust my instinct. I'm blown away at how often my intuition is correct. I'm about to sound like a crystal gripping hippie (which I sometimes am) but when ideas and experiences flow smoothly and are not forced or over analyzed, for me it tends to produce the best work or results. I think there is a lot to be said for intuition based on experience.
What is one goal you set for your self as a business owner? One of my biggest intentions when opening Driftwood was to secure a space of endless creativity. I am naturally a very productive person and I have discovered over the years how important it is to my wellbeing to have an outlet for all of my creative energy. Driftwood has over exceeded my expectations so much that sometimes I freak out a little bit and think "Oh my, what have I done? I have created a monster!" However, I have been so fortunate to attract other awesome creators who have been able exercise their artistry and keep the creative monster well fed.
How has business changed for you since Driftwoods inception. The biggest change has been the growth! It's a little scary at times because I now rely on so many people to help me run the business, but I suppose it's a good circumstance to be in and we are are enjoying the hustle.
What do you love about being a retailer, and being one on Maui? One thing I love about being a retailer is the relationships I’ve been able to cultivate over the years. When I'm at work it's more like socializing with friends. I adore my staff, we work hard but we also have way too much fun together. Visitors from all over the world come back year after year to shop with us and say 'Hi'. And mostly I love getting to know more of my Maui community. Even after 23 years on Maui I keep meeting more amazing people day after day.
Any plans to expand the Driftwood empire? I have had several opportunities to expand but so far none have passed my gut instinct check - yet. I definitely have ideas and plans for more businesses. You'll just have to stay tuned. :)
*Photos are BTS of a recent shoot we did out of Lahaina Harbor with Anna Kim behind the camera and Adiel Sneary-Cline, of Salon 253, on hair and make-up*
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