The Hard Truth About Hobbyist Brands

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

Many of the quilt, craft, and fabric supply stores I worked with were run by incredibly creative, kind, and passionate people. However, many were focused more on creative fulfillment than on building a business that financially supported them, and that’s completely valid. However, it meant we weren’t always aligned in our goals.

They weren’t relying on the business to support their lives. Without a strong financial motivation, implementing strategic changes can feel unnecessary, even when the opportunity is there.

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