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Daily Inspiration: Meet Chad Ackley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chad Ackley.

Hi Chad, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
LeadHead Glass was founded by my partner Derek and myself in 2013. We were both hobbyists in stained glass and made a large free-standing terrarium for our own home. Through the process of building our first large case we really fell in love with the history and aesthetic of traditional terrariums. We started designing a group of smaller table-top terrariums for sale and that is how LeadHead got started. Now we sell both wholesale to independent retailers nationwide and directly to our customers through our website www.leadheadglass.com.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Running a small business has numerous challenges and really it is how those challenges are faced that determines success or failure. We rely on a number of imported goods for the construction of our terrariums, which has been especially unpredictable in the current climate. Our ordering strategy has had to change, and we have to be more adaptable to rapid price changes in the market.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I have specialized in building stained glass terrariums and large Wardian cases, but am expanding my business to include leaded windows, lighting, and mirrors. Ive just completed two of my first large window projects and am excited for more upcoming custom gigs.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I was always interested in nature and how things work when I grew up. I was always taking things apart and putting them back together, often missing a few pieces. I think I gravitate towards creative projects that also have a functional use. The feeling of starting with raw materials and building an object that can be used in the home is still a great feeling.

Contact Info:

Glass terrarium with plants inside, on a wooden base, against a plain background.

Glass terrarium with a white flower inside, mounted on a wooden base, against a plain background.

Glass and metal decorative object with a hexagonal pattern on top, on a wooden surface, against a plain background.

Two men smiling in front of a wooden wall, one wearing a dark shirt, the other a light shirt, in black and white.

Glass terrarium with green plant inside, on a wooden base, against a plain light background.

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