Meet Lori Littell | Sharpening Business Owner and Operator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lori Littell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lori, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
When I started the business, I knew I had to surround myself with supportive people. My time in the Navy taught me that it always takes a team to make things happen.

My wife and my best friend put in countless hours to help grow the business. From the beginning, they were lugging equipment and working stands with me at dog shows. While I sharpened, they were ambassadors…greeting customers and sharing the business with everyone they came in contact with.

I am grateful for the “SharpSmith Team”, which now includes friends and customers who spread the word about the business.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am a sharpener; a darn good sharpener and it’s taken years to achieve the level that I have. But you know what? There are other darn good sharpeners out there. I acknowledge that and I know that my customers have a choice who they go to for their sharpening needs. I used to worry and stress myself about the status of the business. One of the biggest things I’ve learned over the years is that I can only do the best that I can do. I do my best to live my life and go about my business one day at a time, and I give it to my Higher Power.

My favorite quote is from Maya Angelou, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you make them feel.” I do my best to treat everyone who walks through the door of “SharpSmith, Inc” with respect and dignity.

One transaction can change a person’s day from negative to positive and vise-versa. It’s my goal that my customers leave my shop feeling positive. I provide a service, and always perform that service the best that I am capable. At the end of the day, though, it is the relationship with my customers and theirs’ with me, that keeps me going.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh, my goodness! Loveland has so many hidden gems! A must-do would be the Benson Sculpture Park. Loveland is known as an artists’ city, so we have galleries galore. A leisurely walk along downtown Loveland provides access to any number of amazing restaurants. I’m a celiac, and there are some celiac-friendly spots that I’d highly recommend (Henry’s, Cactus Grill, and Pourhouse, just to name a few). There are coffee shops and breweries, each with their own unique charm.

We have “Axe to Grind” for some axe throwing fun and “Loveland Laser Tag” for some action-packed fun.

I invite anyone to come check out our little city.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My wife, Maverick Smith, is the level-headed business voice that I need to keep things running smoothly. From the start, she kept me on track with balancing work life with family life. She continues to spread the word about the business and continues to support me in every way that she can.

Christine Woods, my best friend…I cannot say enough about the support she provided in growing the business. She has an outgoing personality, is friendly and confident. She has been “the voice” of the company. She provided outreach to other businesses and to customers during the growth of “SharpSmith, Inc”. She has been my sounding board and my inspiration.

Website: www.sharpsmith.net

Instagram: sharpsmith_inc

Facebook: Sharpsmith, Inc