
Feeling the love on my birthday. Photo credit to Shameika Ejiasi. Location credit to Dock Street South – Philadelphia, PA.
Thirty
“Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let every new year find you a better man” – Benjamin Franklin, Poor Richard’s Almanac
I turned 30 years old today…
Despite what the ancient Mayans believed, I made it this far. Similar to every other birthday, people have asked “do you feel older?” and “are you happy/excited to be this age?” …and while age doesn’t really phase me, the questions did inspire some reflection and nostalgia going into Thanksgiving and the holiday season. The big “three – zero” comes with some exciting milestones…
“3” – My wedding anniversary is about a week away – meaning that it has been 3 years since I bought the tequila bottle that inspired me to start Destined Goods
“2” – It’ll be 2 years since I’ve worked a corporate job – something I might not have had the courage to make happen on my own, so “thank you” old job for dissolving my department and pushing me into what I always wanted; the opportunity to fully commit to my dream of entrepreneurship
“1” – December 10th will mark 1 year since Destined Good’s online store went live… And what a crazy year it has made for. Here are some highlights:
- I’ve had the opportunity to interact with CEOs and leaders from a few of Philly’s biggest coffee companies
- I’ve been ignored/ghosted probably over 100 times (but that’s showbiz, baby)
- I’ve had the chance to work with two of my best friends, Meg and Taylor, who have jumped in to help shape Destined Goods through their marketing, sales, and production help
- I’ve seen the impact my product can have – moving some customers to tears as they see pictures of their favorite pets, little baby footprints, and maps marking the location of their new home
Going into this next year – I hope to continue the partnerships and friendships that have helped progress Destined Goods as a brand and a company. I recognize that I have a lot to be thankful for, and in the spirit of turning “30” want to extend a 30% discount for any 1 item to all of you who have supported me by following along on my mailing list.
Thank you,
Mark
Happy 30th Birthday Mark! We are so proud of you ❤️