Boise-based clothing brand supports Veterans

Husband-and-wife duo Eric and Samantha Stephenson founded their clothing brand Fireside Pine in 2022 on the philosophy that nature gives the freedom to heal. As a veteran-owned and American-made clothing brand that features hoodies, leggings, T-shirts and hats, the designs inspire individuals to recall their experiences in nature and the tranquility those memories bring.

“We recognized a gap in the market for exceptionally comfortable, everyday clothing that not only supports mental health but also champions American businesses,” Eric shared. “As a veteran-owned business, we were driven by a commitment to give back to our fellow service members. We saw an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting veteran-focused nonprofits, thereby extending our mission beyond the realm of commerce to contribute positively to the veteran community. This dual focus on enhancing mental health through nature-inspired clothing and supporting veterans reflects the core reasons behind our decision to launch Fireside Pine.”

Fireside Pine’s primary nonprofit beneficiary is Idaho Backcountry Veterans (IBV), but they also give back regularly to the Idaho Veteran’s Chamber of Commerce. So far, the company has donated over $25,000 to these organizations. Beyond that, they also launched a veteran artist competition, showcasing the winning design by Sgt. McPhail on one of the Fireside Pine shirts. This initiative alone has raised nearly $1,000.

“Supporting these organizations is not just a part of our business; it’s the heart of it,” Eric said. “The reason it’s so important to us is clear: We believe in the power of community and the duty to support those who’ve risked everything to protect our country.”

Eric and Samantha currently manage all business operations themselves, with a select group of contractors who provide expertise in specific areas. Eric explained that the response for the clothing brand has been nothing short of remarkable.

“We’ve seen our business expand rapidly, a testament to not just the appeal of our products but also to the hard work and dedication behind the scenes,” he said. “Being on the road for a good chunk of 2023, covering around 30 events across six states, including Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah, Oregon, Washington and our home state of Idaho, has been a whirlwind. This hands-on approach not only helped grow our brand but also allowed me to transition working full-time with Fireside Pine just 11 months after we started. This journey of growth isn’t just about the numbers, although they’ve been encouraging. It’s about the connections we’ve made and the impact we’ve had.”

However, it’s the response from customers that has been the most heartwarming part of their entrepreneurial journey so far.

“It’s one thing to sell a product, but it’s entirely another to see that product become a part of someone’s life,” Eric shared. “Having customers return to us, expressing how much they love our clothing and what our brand stands for, has been incredibly rewarding. These moments validate all the effort we’ve put into building not just a brand, but a community.”

Fireside Pine has big plans in the works. Currently, the Stephensons are scouting for their first retail location in the Treasure Valley area, and are teaming with Zero Dark Thirty Coffee, another veteran-owned business, to bring a concept to life that will be part coffee shop, part boutique.

“Imagine a space where you can chill with a great cup of coffee, snack on some treats and browse through our clothing line ― all while supporting veterans,” Eric said. “We have grand visions for this spot, aiming to make it a warm, welcoming place where our passions for community, coffee and clothing come together. Fireside Pine is more than just a clothing brand. We’re a community-focused, mission-driven company that values quality, sustainability and giving back. We’re excited for what the future holds and we look forward to continuing to share our journey with [the community].”