Almost by accident I came across this company on the net a few days ago: Saddleback Leather Co. Without having the slightest idea of its existence, it caught my attention because of its leather products, full of personality, strength and tradition.
Then I was delighted to find the tribute they pay to their dog Blue, which reminded me of our Trucho, as well as the not inconsiderable guarantee of their products for 100 years. Within minutes they had me reading their story and I discovered the huge leather heart of this company from San Antonio, Texas.
By the time I got to the videos showing their products being tested on lizards and sharks, in Australia, Jamaica or Norway, the personality of the brand and the legend built for their products, needless to say, had gotten my full attention and my desire for some of their products, although I must clarify that they are not cheap.
As the minutes passed, and a moment before leaving their site, I saw a tab that says“our rivals“. They put the websites of their competitors, because they are so sure of what they have, that they help the potential buyer to evaluate his options. Grateful as I am for my competitors and rivals, I came to the conclusion that I had to buy something from them, even if it was just an ID holder for my suitcase.
Now, don’t go away from this story just yet! I placed my order through Amazon and in case you have any doubt about how extraordinary this company is, check out the email I received from their president after they confirmed the shipment:
Hello there Jorge
Just wanted to let you know that I sent your leather out just a little bit ago. Your tracking number is listed below along with a link to the shipping company so you can track your leather piece every couple of hours. To care for your leather piece and read about the photo contest please see the Questions page on the website. I have all sorts of tips to keep your leather in top shape there too.
Oh, and by the way, a pretty good chunk of the amount that you sent to Saddleback went directly to loving people through one of those aid organizations on the Dave’s Links page. Basically, you just contributed to drilling a well for an entire village or partially sponsored a 5 year old street kid in Rwanda to get into a loving orphanage and go to one of the best schools in the country. This is the main reason Saddleback Leather exists. Just wanted to let you know… between friends. Thanks for helping.
The way I see it, out of the thousands and thousands of companies in the world, on the Internet or down on the corner selling leather goods, you chose mine and I really do feel honored. You are very much appreciated. Glad you’re in the family.
Thank you and have a great week.
Warm regards,
Dave Munson
President
Saddleback Leather Co
I thought it was a heartfelt and sensitive message – great! So in addition, with the purchase made, I unintentionally contributed to the construction of a drinking water well for a village in Rwanda, or to a 5 year old child in need! Like this or with more heart? They never told me this before, so they didn’t use the argument in a commercial way, but as a post-sale surprise that ended up sitting me in front of the keys and on the screen to share it with you.
How I have learned from this experience! So much to do and add to our culture! Of course I’m already a fan of the clever Saddleback and even decided to share it. I also found that I’m not alone: take a look at YouTube with a search for Saddleback, and you’ll come across dozens of videos.
Saddleback has been an inspiration and influence for a few days now. They do it very well. Here’s the most viewed, including the crocodile attack:
https://youtube.com/watch?v=0bOiFvFD4_U%3Fversion%3D3_US
