Member Name: Brian LaFave

Company Name: Western Sky Designs

Position: Owner

Member Category: Builder

Location: Brighton, CO

What inspired you to join NADRA? I have been in the BM industry for many years, mainly as a manufacturers representative. When I opened my business, I knew the value of being a member of NADRA and believe wholeheartedly in the message. I am passionate about the decking industry and try to instill that when meeting with potential customers.

When did you first get involved with this industry? 2001 as a sales rep in a lumberyard

What was the first thing you ever built? The first thing inbuilt was a dog house for my dog – Jordan. I was 14. This was a piece of art.

We want to get to know you, please tell us a little about your business: I started Western Sky Designs in 2015, primarily as a design and consultation company to earn extra income. As I went through the process, I realized my experience with many manufacturers would translate nicely into a full time career. Our specialty is custom decks, rail, and shade structures. We are passionate about building decks correctly and safely. This year we will build about 30 decks. In addition to patio covers and custom

pergolas. We will also complete 5-10 basements per year.

How do you define success? Success to me is personal relationships with my family and my friends. I have spent a lot of time on airplanes and traveling to help companies succeed. But at the end of the day, relationships with the people who I care about the most is the most important.

What advice would you like to share with fellow members that you have learned in your career? We aren’t competing against one another – we are building an industry. Let’s work together and help each other.

If you could ask your fellow industry professionals one question, what might it be? What kind of beer do you drink? Can I get you one?

What would you do for a career if you weren’t doing this? I’d probably be selling decking related products!

A little more about Brian:  Most importantly, I am a father to my wonderful kids, Colby and Macy. And a best friend to Stacy, Luca and Rocco. I am a die hard Michigan Wolverines Fanatic! GO BLUE! During the winter months, I am a High School and NCAA wrestling official. I travel to several tournaments throughout the country promoting wrestling. I wrestled my entire youth life and this is the way I stay connected. I have a bird dog named Dixie, she is an American Brittany. We love hunting upland game birds in North Dakota, Nebraska, and Colorado. I wish I had more time to do that. Lastly, I try to travel as much as possible. The best trip ever was with my best friend, Stacy, to Africa. We went to Botswana for a couple different safari trips, as well as, South Africa. We plan to do more trips in the future.

Connect with Western Sky Designs online:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/wsdcolorado