When Army spouses, Lisa Bradley and Cameron Cruse recently relocated to Camp Merrill, Georgia, they quickly learned that finding jobs in their “fields” would prove to be quite difficult. “We were stuck between a rock and hard place. Neither one of us could seem to find a ‘career job’ locally; we had a choice between traffic-heavy commutes to work in bigger cities or to take what felt like future-less part-time jobs ... just to get by.” says Lisa. This dismal prospect of career options motivated these creative ladies to chart their own course for career longevity. Bringing different yet compatible talents to the table, not to mention extensive educations in design and business, Lisa and Cameron constantly learn from each other and work toward a common goal, the success of R. Riveter.
What is R. Riveter? “We produce stylish and contemporary handbags using old military materials like duffel bags, wool blankets, and shelter halves. Our creations are upcycled with a modern aesthetic producing character and style that is totally unique and full of history!” says Cameron. With a mission to renew the romance that once was, and to inspire elegance, pride and patriotism into the hearts of many, R.Riveter shares through their products the spirit of innovation and strength, two of the traits exemplified by Rosie the Riveter -- the cultural icon for which the company was named.
R. Riveter takes materials rich in history and gives them a new life. One of the most meaningful aspects of their products is the thought that each bag has a story. Lisa tells us, “the materials that have proven themselves for years in the field have been reborn and are still proving themselves today. The shelter half that once kept a soldier warm and dry continues to demonstrate its utility in a whole new way. It’s about reinvention and the possibilities that await.”
And military spouses know a thing or two about reinvention. “The transient nature of the military lifestyle forces mil spouses to adapt quickly and change frequently,” says Lisa. How many times, as a mil spouse, have you altered your career goals or upcycled your interests in pursuit of a job? It is this challenge that fuels Lisa and Cameron to create something that will provide a creative outlet and job security for themselves and potentially for other mil spouses in similar career-void situations.
“Eventually we plan to expand our operation into the employment of military spouses on a much larger scale.” Sound simple? Lisa ponders this. “Starting a business is not easy, and we still have a long way to go. Our biggest challenge seems to be the constant battle between getting things done quickly and efficiently without sacrificing quality of work. It’s exciting to watch R. Riveter grow, but we have to fight the urge to rush things-- knowing that it will be well worth it in the end, to take our time and do it right.”
A Macaroni salute to the success of R.Riveter and to Lisa and Cameron in their pursuit to make a difference in the military spouse community and accessory industry through their stylish design of reinvention.
