RAISED RIGHT Jack & Casey Emerson

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With a passion for agriculture and ranching roots that run deep, Jack and Casey Emerson have their sights set on building a small business that highlights the importance of farming/ ranching and promotes the cowboy way of life. Jack (13) and Casey (9) enjoy all aspects of ranch life. Alongside their family, the Emerson brothers raise cattle in the Foothills region of Alberta. They take great pride in preserving their western heritage and plan to build their own herd, as soon as possible. From chopping firewood to selling swag, the Emerson brothers tackle most any task with gusto and grit. The boys started their business venture, The Alberta Ranch Kid apparel, when pandemic-based “home schooling” no longer captivated their full attention. Thirsty for a little more, Jack and Casey decided to test the entrepreneurial waters of small business and expand their “real-life” skills.

Following in their mom’s footsteps, the boys learned about marketing a brand/product and offering a valuable service. Aspiring to make Alberta more cowboy again, one kid at a time, the boys are proud to see their apparel gaining popularity. From online orders to retail locations, Alberta Ranch Kid swag is popping up everywhere. The boys are busy little beavers, especially when it comes to filling apparel and firewood orders. Truly, the future of their venture looks promising, as winter weather settles in! Sit tall in your saddle as we share the thoughts of Jack and Casey Emerson – founders of The Alberta Ranch Kid.

By the Western way of life

Q) What inspired you to start a small business and how did you choose your brand name?

We were inspired by the western lifestyle we live. Our mom and dad always include us, whether it’s teaching us how to drive tractor, roping calves in the branding pen, doctoring cows, or fixing fence. We want more kids to have these experiences and learn about what it takes to live rural. Alberta carries so much western history. We never want that to be forgotten. We want people to think Cowboy Country when they hear the word Alberta and that’s why we named our brand Alberta Ranch Kid.

Q) What products/services do you currently provide and what would you like to build into your portfolio?

We currently have our ball caps – that is our hottest seller. We bring in hoodies and toques seasonally. Perhaps, over the next year, we will add to our line with more apparel options.”

Q) What challenges have you faced, starting a small business and building a brand?

During the pandemic we often ran into back orders on popular colors. It all has to do with warehouse availability. As we move away from that, we find that’s getting much better. We sometimes struggle with learning time management. In between school, a demanding hockey schedule and helping out on the ranch, we try to get orders out the door and delivered the best we can. Sometimes mom has to step in to help us out.

Q ) What have you enjoyed most, sharing your brand and helping others?

We really enjoy promoting this lifestyle and getting recognized for our accomplishments. It’s a pretty cool feeling when you’re somewhere and you see random people, of all ages, wearing your brand. The best part is you don’t have to be a cowboy to wear our hats. If you support the agricultural lifestyle, and want to learn about western heritage, then this brand is for you.

Q) What lessons have you learned, taking on this venture?

You have to spend money, and spend it wisely, to make money. My brother and I have been fortunate enough to have worked in the film industry and we were able to pull some cash together to start our business without having to go to the bank or mom and dad for financial help.

Q ) What goals do you have, as your business grows and your profits increase?

We would love to get our hats into more western stores in Alberta. If we could add another five stores to our wholesale list, this year, we could put some more funds into building up our very own small cow herd.

Q) What does being a cowboy/rancher mean to you?

It means being accountable and taking on the responsibility of more than just yourself. The respect we have for our animals and the land is important. We are proud to be fifth generation cowboys and love everything that being a cowboy stands for. WHR