22 years ago, my family bought a little restaurant in the middle of nowhere, Arkansas. I didn’t know then that it would become such a big part of who I am — my work ethic, my values, and eventually, Smokeshow.
Growing up, it was just a job (that I didn’t necessarily sign up for) — waiting tables for a little gas money. I guess it’s the age talking, but I finally realized it was so much more than that. It was lessons learned during 6AM shifts, meeting hunters from all over the world who stopped by year after year during duck season, and locals who watched me grow up and still look at me today like I’m 17 (I’m also at the age where I don’t mind that 😊).
It’s been years since I’ve worn my apron, but I keep it handy in case they ever call me in a bind. It’s like riding a bike, right? I used to dread those early morning shifts, but I’d give anything for just one more beside my dad. I met C after losing my dad and before losing hers- timing only God could’ve planned. They say you don’t choose trucking; it chooses you, and I’d say the same about the people meant to walk through it beside you. And because 40 hours a week together apparently wasn’t enough, we came up with the wild idea of starting a hat company. From there it was all gas, no brakes.
Bringing those memories into today through our Hurley House collaboration, while celebrating my brother and his wife carrying the restaurant into the next generation, means more than words can say. And to be completely honest, the mallard wearing a backwards hat holding a stack of pancakes might just be one of our most genius ideas to date.
Smokeshow has never been just about the hats, and this time it was no different. It’s about the people and places that raised us. It’s about Southern grit, early morning hunts, and small-town roots that still mean something. It’s about carrying the good stuff with us: the lessons, the memories, the pride.
Because no matter how far the road takes you, it always feels good to be home.
Here’s to good hunts, good food, cute hats, and the house that built me-
-B