We asked some of the most inspiring folks we know to tell us what they are inspired by.

Cassie Wilson | Music Artist/Singer-Songwriter ~ Cous

With music, I find inspiration in many different realms. Probably at the forefront I get inspired by other musicians, bands and songwriters. I grew up listening to a lot of old-school legends (The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, Bob Dylan, and John Prine were some big ones), but there are so many killer artists on the scene now I really dig. I listen to a real diversity of artists and genres too. I’m a big Brittany Howard fan (and her many endeavors), Fleet Foxes, The Avett Brothers, Mac Miller (R.I.P.), Amelia Meath (of Sylvan Esso and Mountain Man), Liz Cooper & The Stampede, The Brook & The Bluff, and Local Natives to name a few. I also always find rejuvenation and innovation in nature – growing up in the front range of Colorado, I was fortunate to have access to lots of hiking trails, ski slopes and outdoor activities which instilled an appreciation and respect for Mother Nature. Read more>>

George Gastis | Founder / Owner

My parents and our heritage. I’m a first generation child of Greek immigrants and food and gardening were a major part of my upbringing and family culture. This background served as the foundation of my inspiration for Grow + Gather. I’m also inspired by my immediate family, my wife and kids, who’ve lived through this project from concept to opening and throughout the pandemic. I want to make them proud and excited to be a part of the family business. In short, my family. Read more>>

Zoe Berman | Singer-Songwriter & Multi-Instrumentalist

I am deeply inspired by nature and find myself feeling creatively fueled in the quietude of natural spaces. I write a lot of my song lyrics on hiking trails, bike rides, etc. My most recent single release, entitled Lilac Hour, was one of the more directly inspired outcomes of that process. I wrote this song on a bike ride in the foothills of Fort Collins. It sonically paints a picture of the brief increment of time following golden hour, just before dark, when the sky is swirling with various shades of purple. Each verse outlines the nuances of a different moment in that progression from dusk to darkness. I’m always deeply enamored by nature, and living here has motivated me to combine outdoor exploration with my songwriting process on a regular basis. Read more>>

Marketa DiStasi | Owner and a Professional Bookworm

I am inspired by my children and children in general. The way they see the world with wonder and innocence is how we should all see it. Their imagination is endless and that is what our subscription box is all about. Although we feature a particular book that the costume is based on, I always love seeing children dressing up in the costume and accessories but changing the story around. They can imagine something new and fun and create an entire magical world. We constantly get emails and Instagram tags from our customers showcasing their children and how our monthly box inspired them, but these children really inspire us. It is absolutely amazing. Read more>>

Jessica Kole Maney | Director of Development and Fundraising

I am inspired by wildlife rescue and share a strong affinity for wolves and wolf dogs in particular. The captive-born wolf and wolf dog crisis is truly a nationwide epidemic. Many of these animals are bred into captivity as part of the exotic animal industry and have no place to turn once they become older due to their wolf-like nature and personality traits—which are incredibly natural to them, but most owners are unprepared on how to successfully take care of their specific needs. Every day I am inspired by the staff and volunteers at W.O.L.F. Sanctuary who work endlessly to take care of the animals who need a second chance at life and a bright future. They work harder than anyone I know, and are the most gracious group of individuals I have had the pleasure of working with on a daily basis. I am honored to be part of the W.O.L.F. Pack. Read more>>