http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1A few years ago, Ben and I met Victor and Sarah of Raleigh Denim. They were in Austin on a trunk show tour, and we just clicked. Makers gravitate to makers, and it's a rare gem to find another couple working together so closely. Ben scored a sweet trade of salami for a pair of work jeans, which has survived a home renovation and many long hours in the butcher shop. It looks better today than ever.

Raleigh Denim has been a huge inspiration for Canoe, especially their production model and investment in their town of Raleigh, North Carolina. They have vision, passion, and smarts, a killer combo that breeds success. They also have one hell of a sweet shop called The Curatory, which I hope to visit sometime soon. Paper plane ceiling anyone? Brilliant.