Since 1972, all Outer Banks rope hammocks, porch swings and rockers are completely hand made at our shop in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
Outer Banks Hammocks has been in business since 1972. I have been involved in the business since 1986.
What is your primary product or service?
We make high quality hand crafted outdoor furniture. Obviously hammocks are our focus, but we also make rope and wood chairs and porch swings.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
I began as a hammock weaver in the summers during my college years (1986-1990) when I would return home to Wilmington from NC State. I very much enjoyed working with my hands and making things that people can get real, tangible benefits from. I managed the store in the 90s after college and then after I began my teaching career (after going to UNCW from 1997-1999) I continued to work there off and on. I bought the business in 2005 after the previous owner decided to change careers.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
There are not many businesses like ours in the area, although there is a lot of competition in the outdoor furniture market. With the increase in overseas production, we really pride ourselves in making a high end product with raw materials almost exclusively from NC. Our products are built to last and withstand the elements.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
We have only our location in Wilmington and there are no plans to expand or open other locations. We do, however, enjoy a brisk business online!
Provide detailed directions to your location
We are located at 7228 Wrightsville Ave., on the right just before the drawbridge to Wrightsville Beach, NC
What type of payments do you accept?
Cash, check, MC, Visa, American Express, Discover
Which areas do you service?
Wilmington and surrounding communities. Of course we ship almost anywhere.
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
the company is owned by Jonathan Allen. A variety of employees run the day to day operations.
What are your hours of operation?
It's pretty seasonal. We are open seven days a week, 10-6 in the late spring, summer, and early fall. Other months vary. Right now (December) we have a Christmas Tree lot, and hammocks are popular holiday gift items, so we are also open seven days a week until Christmas Eve.
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
When they tell me how much they love their hammock, and the fact that they cannot believe that it has lasted so much loner than the one they bought before at....._______________!!
What is your favorite quote or Bible verse?
You reap what you sow.