Our Story

In October 2016, we tied the knot and moved into our first home. Upon moving in, we quickly realized we had absolutely no furniture. So, we did what every reasonable newlywed couple does and went to a big-box furniture store. We found what looked like the “perfect“ dining set–until we looked at the price tag and low quality. We realized how imperfect it truly was. Michael said, “for $700 we could buy the tools and build this ourselves!” Reluctant wife, Emma, nervously said, “Sure. . .”

After countless hours of watching videos, and reading numerous articles, we took the two tools we had and got started. Fast forward six years, three kids, and three dogs later, we now have a house full of furniture, and a shop full of tools. With the support of our friends and family, we took the leap to start our business, Howard Family Designs.

When Barry Gordy, the founder of Motown, wrote his first song and received a royalty check for $3.19, his friend, Smokey Robinson, said: “If they are going to pay you like this, then you might as well go into business for yourself.” Growing up in Detroit, the Gordy family is especially inspirational to us. The Gordy family came together and started business after business, with the belief that if Gordy was your last name, you wouldn’t be without a job. We carry that same spirit in our family business! Our mission is to build artisan furniture while building lives in the process.