It's clear John Pugh is doing just that at "House of Swank Clothing" https://www.houseofswankclothing.com/, cranking out t-shirts, stickers and all kinds of fun and funny merchandise for almost 15 years now.
His inspiration?
"It used to come out of the bottom of a pint glass," Pugh chuckles, but he also keeps his ear to the ground, referencing current events, sayings from grandparents, things you'd hear in a small town, or unique observations.
Pugh's shirts aren't just fun and edgy, they're comfortable too.
"We always say we have the softest shirts in the universe," says Pugh, "and we do."
Pugh and his wife, co-owners of "House of Swank," were intentionally growing the business. They were visible early on, out in the community, at events and festivals. They also churn out their products quickly and have been able to give back to charities and organizations.
"I don't think we could have done it without community involvement," Pugh says.
"It's such a welcoming area, love the vibe here. We work off the energy of the area. It's been huge for us, it really has."
Pugh and his wife are now published authors.
The book, entitled "Source to Sea," chronicles a trip down the Mississippi River that Pugh and his wife took early in their relationship. That book is now on sale.
The secret to the success of "House of Swank Clothing"?
"Stubbornness and tenacity is our big thing,"Pugh says with a smile, "I am the luckiest guy in the world, so thankful to Raleigh for embracing us, Raleigh, thank you, thank you, thank you."
Thank you, in return, John Pugh and "House of Swank Clothing," for decorating so many with personality and North Carolina style.