Inspiring Conversations with Alexandra Craddock of Sharp Hand Ally Sharpening Services, LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandra Craddock

Hi Alexandra, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
i first learned the art of sharpening in culinary school, where a sharp blade was just as essential as a good recipe. Over time, I realized how much I enjoyed the process – how it transformed a dull edge into something precise and powerful. But back then, I had no idea it would turn into a business.

Life took me in many directions, as it does, but I’ve always followed my intuition. When the opportunity came to start sharpening professionally, I went with the flow, initially setting up my business out of my house, then setting up at local farmers markets and Gun and knife shows wherever I could find them. And, Offering a service the people didn’t even realize they needed. It wasn’t always easy – building a business from the ground up while juggling personal challenges and responsibilities took resilience. But every challenge that surfaced only strengthened my commitment.

Eventually, I found myself in a position to relocate my business to brick and mortar storefront with the help of my family, offering on-the-spot sharpening and selling quality knives. It’s been a journey of patience, adaptability, and trust in the process. Looking back, I can see how every twist and turn led me exactly where I needed to be – doing something I love, serving my community, and embracing the ever-evolving path ahead.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Becoming a single parent while my business was growing presented a whole new set of challenges, from balancing work and parenting to managing finances and time effectively. On top of that, having to uproot and relocate added even more uncertainty to the mix. Getting to this place was by no means easy, but through it all, I’ve always found a way to succeed. I’ve learned to adapt, trust my skills, and lean into the resilience that comes with following my passion. Every obstacle has only pushed me to grow stronger and step into my power, both as a business owner and as a person.

We’ve been impressed with Sharp Hand Ally Sharpening Services, LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I own and operate Sharp Hand Ally Sharpening Services, where I provide Precision knife and tool sharpening. I specialize in wet stones, belt sanders, paper wheels and more, tailoring my techniques to each blade’s specific needs. I’m known for offering quick, high-quality sharpening with a friendly and approachable service, whether at my storefront in Bay City or during pop-up events like the Northville or Midland Farmers Markets as well as Gun and Knife shows throughout the state.

I’m most proud of how far I’ve come – starting from sharpening in culinary school to growing my business into a full-service sharpening shop with a storefront space. It hasn’t been an easy road, especially balancing single parenthood and relocating, but I’ve pushed through every challenge. Seeing my work appreciated by chefs, hunters, fishermen contractors and everyday people makes it all worth it.

What sets me apart from others is my attention to detail and my deep understanding of knives and tools from both a culinary and functional perspective. Because I learned sharpening in culinary school. I
know firsthand how a properly sharpened knife can enhance efficiency and safety. I’ve also had training under David Blum out of new buffalo, MI to learn tool sharpening and expanded my horizons and services offered. I also focus on making my services convenient and accessible- whether through on-the-spot sharpening, a welcoming storefront experience, or educating customers on how to maintain their edges. Plus, I genuinely love what I do, and I think that passion shows in my work.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I believe risk-taking is essential for growth, both personally and professionally. I wouldn’t say I’m reckless, but i do trust my intuition and take calculated risks when I believe in something. One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was starting my sharpening business full-time. There was no guarantee it would work, especially as a single parent with major life changes happening at the same time. Uprooting my entire life and relocating 100 miles away while building my business was another huge risk. It meant stepping into the scary unknown, adapting quickly, and trusting that I could make it work. This journey has been somewhat terrifying, but I’ve always been brave and faced my fears head on, life has been way more exciting this way.

To me, risk is about betting on yourself, even when the path isn’t clear. I’ve learned that challenges will always come up, but if you’re willing to pivot, work hard, and stay committed, those risks often lead to the greatest rewards.

Pricing:

• Knives: $1.50 per inch of blade
• Lawn and Garden Tools: $1 per inch of blade
• Saw Blades: starts at $0.35 a tooth
• Hair Shears: $20
• Restoration: Starts at $100

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sharp-hand-ally.square.site/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharphandally/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sharphandally/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@sharphandally