How would you describe your style? My goal is to keep my designs organic and simple with few understated flourishes, so I suppose I aspire to Minimalism.

Do you remember the first thing you made? Probably Legos! But as far as woodworking, I started out by making these little rustic bird-house-looking lamps. It’s safe to say that my style and craftsmanship have evolved.

Before I started making I… I was in the Marine Corps for four year, and then spent one year fighting wildland fire on a Hotshot Crew in Central Oregon.

If I weren’t a maker I’d be... Probably somewhere in the Forest Service - I started this design/maker lifestyle in the off-season of fighting wildland fires.

Favorite quote or words to live by: “I have always believed that most people who work with their hands have a communion between themselves and their materials. When the user of the object enters, the result is a triune of the object maker, the material, and the ‘owner.’” Sam Maloof - Woodworker (page 53)

If I could run away I’d go… Alaskan wilderness … but in the summertime … I’m tough but not that tough.

If you could collaborate with one person dead or alive who would it be? I am aspiring to becoming a better leather-worker and learn about upholstery, so I’d love to visit Overgaard & Dyrman and see behind the scenes in Jasper and Christian’s studio!

What would be on your maker’s soundtrack? Kendrick Lamar, Iron & Wine, Tyler, the Creator; Gregory Alan Isakov’s collaboration with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra.

If you could learn a new skill what would it be? Professionally: Leather-working and Upholstery - Personally: I want to learn how to play the Cello. I took 7 years of classical piano as a child, so I have a head start in music theory.

What’s your favorite movie? Currently the new Joker movie with Joaquin Phoenix.

What is your perfect day? Getting up early to put some finishing touches on furniture pieces that are otherwise complete and almost ready to ship out, and taking breaks to play with my kids and wife in the driveway between our house and my shop.

Last book you read? I rarely have time to read, but I’m pretty sure I’m some sort of platinum Audible subscriber - I listen to books constantly while I work. Recently finished “Perelandra” by C.S. Lewis.

Favorite flower or tree? Poppy; Sagebrush

What do you see outside your bedroom window? Cows and mountains

What do you hear right now? Mac Miller in my headphones.

If money was not a factor how would you live your life? If money wasn’t a factor, life wouldn’t be as much fun. There’s something fulfilling about doing the best with what you have and being forced to improvise when you don’t have the money to make something happen. I think my life would pretty much look the same as it does now.

Best piece of advice you have ever received? Don’t decide what to make based on what you think will sell; your business is about passion, so just design what you’re passionate about.

Favorite holiday? Easter.

What is your favorite family tradition? Every Christmas, we drive my manual 71’ Chevy into the mountains and snow to cut down a Christmas tree.

What are you most thankful for? My wife and two daughters, and this career I’ve been blessed with where I can live and work creatively.

To see more from Fernweh visit, www.fernwehwoodworking.com or his Instagram @fernwehwoodworking.