Local entrepreneurs focus on core principles

Published on Tue, May 3, 2011 by Beckye Randall

Read More Business

Vitalire Relay for Life

In a sea of press releases, this one caught my attention.


"Local company will donate all profits to 'Relay for Life'."

I was even more intrigued when I learned that the founders of Vitalire, a local apparel brand that produces clothing designs reflecting the active northwest lifestyle, were only 19 years old.

Craig Davis and Conner Cave are lifelong friends who share a love for the outdoors and active board sports. They also share a philosophy that makes their company seem mature beyond its founders' years.

A quick trip to their website illustrates the young men's ideals: "We believe that a company isn't built on its products, it's built on an idea; a single concept that the entire brand is centered around. Here at Vitalire, that root idea is to be truly genuine in everything we do. We want to be recognized for our high quality products as well as our positive impact on both people and planet."

As seniors at Arlington High School a short two years ago, Davis and Cave took their first stab at the business world with the invention of a snowboard hanger, which is now in pre-production. While waiting for that product to evolve, the two young men developed the idea of a clothing line that would stand up to the rigors of activity while expressing the unique sensibilities of northwest boarders.

Their first design, a bold graphic statement promoting the Evergreen State, was an immediate hit with friends and colleagues. Now they have five designs for both men and women, available on T-shirts and sweatshirts, plus hats and bandanas. In addition to their online store, Vitalire's gear is available at the Arlington High School student store.

Their newest design is a testament to the company's commitment to their community. The limited edition Seasons of Hope T-shirt represents the Arlington Relay for Life, which will be held June 4 and 5, and 100 percent of the profits from the sale of these shirts will be donated to the American Cancer Society.

In fact, through May 7, the profits from all the company's sales will be donated to Relay for Life.

"We have to thank our suppliers for their support," said Davis. "SanMar, which provides the blank apparel, donated a $100 credit toward the merchandise, and Gorilla Screen Printing discounted our printing costs for these Relay for Life shirts."

To purchase a special edition Relay for Life T-shirt, or any of the Vitalire designs, visit www.vitalireapparel.com. All purchases through May 7 benefit the Arlington Relay for Life, and ongoing sales of the Seasons of Hope shirt will continue to support the American Cancer Society.

Not only are they sponsors of the Relay for Life event, the young men have also organized two teams of walkers.

The company's co-owners share a simple philosophy: Enjoy life, have fun, be happy.

"The company name, Vitalire, translates loosely to 'live with passion'," explained Cave.

In addition to running a growing business and working part-time jobs, Davis and Cave are also enrolled in Everett Community College's business and entrepreneurship program.

And of course, they make time for outdoor fun-snowboarding in winter, wakeboarding in the summer, and skateboarding whenever the mood strikes.


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