The Hard Truth About Hobbyist Brands

Sometimes we need to change.

Why I Shifted My Brand to Focus on Outdoor Gear Sellers

For a long time, I’ve been helping product-based businesses clean up their books, stabilize their cash flow, and build systems that support financial freedom.

But over the past year, something started to feel… off.

I couldn’t quite name it at first. I love my clients. I care deeply about the small business owners I work with. And I’m proud of the results we’ve helped them create.

But despite that, I was getting frustrated.

Eventually, I realized the problem wasn’t accounting or even the industries I was serving. It was that I was working with too many "hobby" businesses. I don’t say that to be dismissive — I say it because it made my mission nearly impossible to fulfill.

The Hard Truth About Hobbyist Brands

A lot of the quilt, craft, and fabric supply stores I worked with were run by incredibly creative, kind, and passionate people. But many of them weren’t running businesses in the traditional sense — not ones that paid the owner well or at all.

They weren’t relying on the business to support their lives. And that often meant they weren’t motivated to make the kinds of changes that lead to true profitability.

And I get it. They started with passion, not profit. But it takes two to tango.

As a Profit First Professional and CPA, my entire mission is about helping business owners actually pay themselves. Build cash reserves. Fix cash flow leaks. Create a business that gives them freedom.

That’s really hard to do when the person on the other end isn’t motivated to change.

Why Outdoor Gear Brands?

Meanwhile, I started noticing something else. I’ve always loved the outdoors — hiking, camping, gear talk. It’s not just a niche I understand. It’s one I’m part of.

And the more I looked into the outdoor product space, the more I realized: this industry has a problem no one’s talking about.

Strong sales, but unpredictable cash flow. Over-ordering inventory. Getting crushed by seasonal swings. Business owners stressed and stuck, even with six-figure revenue months.

They’re not hobbyists. They want to pay themselves. They need a plan.

I knew I could help them — in a way that felt aligned with both my skills and my passion.

What’s Stayed the Same (and What’s Changed)

So, I made the shift.

Curtis Accounting Solutions now focuses on helping outdoor gear brands turn their revenue into reliable, lasting profit.

That means cash flow systems that fit real-world inventory cycles. Tax strategies that work in seasonal markets. Profit First tools adapted for e-commerce and retail stores that carry physical products.

But here’s what hasn’t changed: I still believe every business owner deserves financial freedom. I still believe in building systems, not spreadsheets. And I’m still committed to showing up as a financial guide, not a distant advisor.

If You’ve Been With Me for a While…

To my long-time subscribers and clients in other industries, I want you to know: I appreciate you. You helped shape this business into what it is.

I haven’t forgotten you. If you’re an e-commerce brand, a retail shop with inventory, or a small business that’s ready to get serious about your profit, I’m still here for you.

But this new direction is about clarity. About serving a market I truly understand — and one that, frankly, deserves more support.

What’s Next

I’m building a new library of tools for outdoor gear brands — including calculators, kits, and practical financial systems that actually work.

I’m launching new lead magnets and email guides specifically tailored to the unique challenges of inventory-based brands.

And most importantly: I’m excited again.

If you’re an outdoor gear seller and you’re tired of spinning your wheels financially, I’d love to talk. Let’s build a system that gives you confidence — and finally puts profit in your pocket.

👉 Book a Free Profit & Cash Flow Analysis Call