A Note to Cards and Culture

Amazing. Love. Sacrifice. Gratitude. Appreciation. Lessons. Mistakes. Community.

These are just some of the words that immediately come to mind when I think about the past five years of my life.

But I can’t possibly put all of my feelings into words.

Honestly, I hate that I’m even typing this. And if you know me, you know I don’t hate too many things.

That said—and I’m sure some of you have already figured this out—I am no longer involved with Cards and Culture.

Around mid-March, my partners informed me that things were no longer working for them.

They presented me with a few options for how the business would move forward—or not.

I was blindsided. Hurt. Lost. Upset.

Still, I presented a counteroffer that I believed was very fair. At the very least, I made it clear that I was willing—and wanted—to continue as partners, to grow the business, and to put structure around myself to help address any concerns they may have had (even though they never specifically stated what those were).

That offer was rejected.

I was then presented with new options, one of which was significantly rescinded after being proposed.

I did what I believed was best for the business and the brand I love—something I want to see grow and bring joy to others.

And I promise, the decision was not good for me personally. (If this were a game, calling it an “L” wouldn’t even begin to describe it.)

Even so—unfortunately—what I was told would happen is not what ultimately played out, and I’m now looking for new opportunities and moving forward with my life.

The last two months have been hard. Dark. Lonely.

I love Cards and Culture and what I started.

I love the community that came together around a shared passion for cards, collectibles, the stories behind them, and the sports and hobbies that connect us all.

I promise you—I’m still deeply passionate and actively involved in the industry, even if it looks a little different now.

I truly believe that everyone who walked through the doors at Cards and Culture and spent time with me knows the truth.

I hope you felt the authenticity I tried to bring to this industry every single day.

I hope the memories and moments shared in that shop are lasting and positive. And if our paths cross again, I hope we can relive those moments together.

I’m grateful to every single person who spent even a penny at the shop. I know in my heart that my intentions were always to treat everyone fairly and honestly, to share my experiences, and to educate others on what I’ve learned to the best of my ability.

Was I perfect? Hell no.

Did I make mistakes? A ton.

But…

I gave my best at running the business, and want you to know that every decision I made over the past five years prioritized the vision of Cards and Culture—even if it wasn’t always easy to understand—and the survival of the business above all else.

The personal sacrifices I made will likely never be fully known, but please know that every one of them was made with love and passion—for the shop, the community, and the people who supported and invested in me.

I love you all.