Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Buxbaum.
Hi Amy, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
FIREPIT Nights started in 2022 as a firepit rental service for events in the Upstate. We were bringing our firepits out to venues in the area to help celebrate corporate events, weddings, private parties, music events, and just about anything else where a warm fire would enhance the vibe. Every time we attended an event, we would get asked, “Do you sell these?” We have even had someone buy the firepit we used that night to take home with them! And so, we started fabrication and sales. While the majority of our business comes from sales, we do still run our rental program, and it is one of the most enjoyable parts of our business. Matt has been in manufacturing his entire career, and still works with GE Vernova here in Greenville. My background is in art and fitness, and so our skills meld very well for what we do. FIREPIT Nights has become my full time job, and I am loving every aspect of it! Our firepits are made from 3/16″ – 1/4″ low carbon steel, and will NEVER rust through. We fabricate sizes ranging from 24″ to 48″ in diameter. We also have several accessories such as snuffer lids, grilling grates, pokers, roasting sticks, and firewood racks. With a comprehensive fab shop here on our property in Travelers Rest, we are also able to do custom metal works, such as signage, gates (Have you been to Juniper? That’s ours!), railings, bear-proof trash bins, table legs, shelving, fireplace mantels, and more! Our shop is open by appointment. Reach out to schedule a time to visit!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
While Matt has been welding for years, it was a new skill for me. In addition to his guidance, we both spent time out at Greenville Technical College to perfect our skills under the tutelage of Ron Lowery, who is one of their top instructors. In addition to the technical aspects of materials properties, machine settings and processes, there is also definitely a learning curve in terms of the physical application of welding steel pieces together. The most important thing to ensure are strong welds, but it also has to look good.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
When I first started welding for the business, I was told by both my instructor and a couple of machinists, that women and artists make the best welders. My original career was as a visual arts instructor in Ohio, and then when we started our family and I stayed home to raise our girls, I started a mural business. I did that for 10 years until we moved here to the Upstate. Having those skills and that experience under my belt absolutely helps me in this chosen career as well. It is especially beneficial for creative projects I complete with my most favorite tool in the shop – the plasma cutter. It’s like drawing with fire – amazing!
Pricing:
- firepit prices range from $240 – $990
- accessories start at $20
- discounted package pricing
- rentals are $600 for 3 hours
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.firepitnights.com
- Instagram: @gvlfirepitnights
