Mike Kelly launched Outpost Workshop from his parents' garage in Aigburth in 2019 with little knowledge of running a business. Six years later, his custom designs are used by major brands, including Aston Martin.
From garage start to global brands
Clients send Mike designs, which he processes on a computer before a specialist CNC mill (Computer Numerical Control) carves the metal, leaving raised letters used to make branding irons and leather stamps.
One such client was Aston Martin. Mike, 35, told the ECHO: "Aston Martin wanted a bespoke letter-set making. They didn't tell me the details, but I'm imagining it was to personalise a leather item in one of their cars for a customer."
Recognition and work ethic
Mike said the Aston Martin commission made the business feel real, adding: "When I found out, I immediately phoned my mum. Working with Aston Martin made it feel real, made the business feel more substantial than what it was because it's easy to doubt yourself, especially when you work from a small garage."
Despite also working with The Savoy in London and Bentley, Mike said his approach stays the same: "I try and make everything as precise as I can, so it doesn't matter if it's John from down the road, everyone gets the same treatment. I just try and make everything the best I can. That's my work ethic. Aston Martin don't get special treatment. Theirs was made the same way everyone else's was."
Overcoming mental health struggles
Mike said he struggled with anxiety last year and was prescribed sertraline, an antidepressant and anti-anxiety medication. He found it difficult to manage finances, orders and replying to customers, with hundreds of emails building up.
He said: "It was depression, and I just had to make a conscious effort to get out of it. Thankfully, the medication really helped. My beautiful girlfriend, Gosia has also been a massive support in my life."
Reflecting on starting the business, Mike advised: "Life's a game, I think you should try and put yourself out there. If there's something that you dream of doing, if you're passionate about it, and I think being able to do essentially your hobby as a job is amazing, so if there's something you love, I think you should do it."
