Meet Coleen Orr | Custom Hat Maker

I was raised on a ranch in Alberta where life was simple, and resourcefulness was a necessity. We had a large garden, raised a variety of animals. We were pretty self sufficient and fixed many things using parts and pieces that we had lying around. We worked long hours, but our days were well rounded by popping in of neighbors. Guests arrival meant that there was time for a coffee break and homemade treats. Today living in Denver, I am 10 minutes from the grocery store, but old habits die hard. I continue to garden and store a lot of food, along with many parts and pieces that may come in handy when working on the many projects that I have accumulated. The hat equipment I use is over 80 years old, and parts are scarce so it is a common occurrence to find me sorting through my stashes when challenges arise.

I really enjoy meeting the wide variety of hat clients that come through the hat-shop. Helping guests create a high quality hat that represents their style and character is fun and satisfying.

My career started in Healthcare and I’m grateful that I had the courage to change professions when I realized that I needed a shift. Looking back after 30 years has much more clarity than the decision making process at the time. I believe in trust that the Lord has a plan for my life and that allows me the confidence to step out and try things. I drove from Alberta Canada throughout many states with a dream and I hope to find a vintage equipment needed to make custom felt hats. I was running out of vacation days and roads to follow when I located the rare tools at a storage locker in Corpus Christi Texas. My blessings began with a truckers backhaul and have continued through today. The many people and experiences that have enriched my business and personal life are abundant and exciting.

When guests come to town and they are sporting their new hat, I like to complete the look with clothing from some of the great western stores in town. High Country Western Wear has the biggest selection, while Rockmount Ranchwear has premium authentic snap shirts. The Cinch outlet store gives many options for jeans. Once fully outfitted, we head west for a stop at Red Rocks Amphitheater and finish up with a brewery tour at Coors.

My parents didn’t hover, and as long as the work was completed, they allowed my siblings and I to explore and experience life. From building treehouses to ice skating across the lake, we stayed busy. Like most small communities, if we needed help their were many neighbors to call on, and if we were doing something we shouldn’t be, the news got back to our mom long before we returned home for supper. I am grateful for the freedom to learn and the confidence to grow and become the person I was meant to be.