New Natick Maker Studio Encourages Creativity In Adults

NATICK, MA — Laura and Jeff Cusson have always considered themselves crafty, avid DIYers. So when their neighbors in Natick told them they wanted to see more activities for adults in town, they ran with the idea of creating a maker studio that allowed adults be creative.

Brokk and Eitri Maker Studio opened July 31 in its North Natick location, 691 Worcester Street. For two months before the Cussons had a permanent location, they were running the business out of their garage. "We wanted to test out the business and see if it was sustainable before we dove in," Laura Cusson said. Both Laura and her husband worked in marketing before becoming small business owners. Once the business was set up in their garage in May, Laura quite her day job and turned her focus to the studio.

"I've always been crafty, as a kid I was always making friendship bracelets or crafting something," Laura said, "And my husband is very handy — we've remodeled three homes." Turning their hobby into a business seemed natural, she said.

Customers can choose from a range of projects to work on during "Build Nights" that include welcome signs, wooden wine carriers, serving trays and glass etching, among other things — all of the projects are completely customizable. "We really just want everyone to make something that makes them happy," Laura said. If the projects like the wine carrier sound tailored to adults, that's because they are and so is each build night. As customers work on their projects they can enjoy a beer or glass of wine. "We had heard from our friends that there was no nightlife in town and we wanted to contribute to the community," she said.

This is the first time the husband and wife are working together professionally, but Laura said so far, the dynamic is working perfectly. "We balance each other out," she said, "I'm kind of the crazy idea person and he has a great business sense."

While the business is geared toward adults right now, Laura said they're testing an expansion to family options, offering crocheting nights. Brokk and Eitri has already started a buzz around the community, with 150 customers stopping in during the first few weeks. Build nights are open to individuals and groups. Prices vary based on the project you choose, with a range of about $39 to $79.

This may be the first few months the business has opened but the pair have big plans for the future. "I hope if things go well we can open a second location and maybe even franchise," Laura said. For now, they're enjoying encouraging creativity in their friends and neighbors.