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Taking a Look at How Modern Entrepreneurs Work & Live!

A majority of Dirtbag's sales come from Internet shoppers. However, Canning is starting to utilize sales reps throughout the country as well as distributors in the U.K. and Canada. The company has also hired a sales manager that has contacts in Japan, Germany and Mexico.

In addition to the Internet, Dirtbag Clothing offers its apparel line in about ten stores in the San Francisco Bay area right now. Canning says, "Being a small company, it's tough to get entrance in retail stores. We have had to do a lot of consignment. Most big stores do not want to commit to large amounts of inventory. So, we generally give them about $500 of merchandise to try out for thirty days. That has been doing pretty well for us."

Dirtbag Clothing also showcases its apparel line at the ASR (Action Sports Retailer) Trade Show. At this show, various active wear, skateboard, snowboard and ski equipment companies exhibit. Within the next year, Canning and his partners would like to see their clothing line in at least one large retail chain, such as Pacific Sunwear, Urban Outfitters or Gadzooks. They would also like to strengthen their relationships with distributors and increase Internet sales to at least $1 to $1.5 million.

Canning and his partners put a great deal of the company's revenue right back into the company. As they work with larger distributors, they will be expanding into jackets, pants, and board shorts. "Almost all the money we make right now is going into expanding the product line."

During a typical workday, Canning's business partner deals with the production of the clothing, such as screen-printing and embroidery. Canning works on the company's marketing and public relations.

When asked what he enjoys the most about being an entrepreneur, Canning says, "It is definitely the freedom. I set my own hours, but I work harder than I ever did. There is no one looking over my shoulder and if I don't meet a deadline, there is no one to blame but myself."

In his free time, Canning enjoys playing the guitar, golfing and riding his mountain bike. But he has not had much free time recently, as he is busy networking and building his company's brand. He tries to relax on the weekends, however.

Canning says that he does not have a favorite clothing designer of his own. "If I see something I like, I buy it. If I am at a thrift store and I see some retro or vintage stuff, I will buy it. Otherwise, I like t-shirts and jeans."

Finally, when giving advice to other entrepreneurs, Canning says, "Definitely know who your market is and make sure you have enough cash to get your enterprise going. Also, talk to people who have their own businesses that are willing to help you out. Ask a lot of questions."