Community Futures Program & Services | Self-Employment Program
Industry | Trades/Plumber
Business Owner | Graham Young
Please give us a brief description of your backstory.
I’ve been plumbing now for over 13 years. Last year, I got laid off twice from two different companies that were just not the right fit for me. The second time, I had just returned from holidays and couldn’t afford to not be working and decided to take my future into my own hands. I’d always wanted to be out on my own but the timing just never seemed right. I launched Bearded Plumber Canada at end of January of this year.
Tell us about your business.
At Bearded Plumber Canada, I’m not just here to fix your pipes—I’m here to make plumbing a little less painful and a whole lot more dependable. With years of experience, a fully stocked van, and a beard that’s seen more leaks than a nosy neighbour, I bring the kind of service that’s honest, efficient, and just cheeky enough to keep things interesting. Whether it’s a simple repair or a head-scratching mess, you can count on me to show up, sort it out, and leave things better than I found them. Bearded, Reliable, and Ready—Plumbing with Integrity and Character.
What have been your successes, milestones, and challenges?
I just launched in January and am taking Kamloops by storm. I have taken on marketing and branding myself and I take it very seriously down to custom Bearded Plumber Canada earrings. I recently just won silver in the Plumber category in best of Kamloops which is huge. To be in business as little as i have and already have that title next to IPH and above Hadwins is huge to me.
What did you find most valuable in working with Community Futures Thompson Country?
Being able to connect with like minded individuals launching business at the same time and learning all the ins and outs of running a business was huge for me. All the little things I didn’t think i needed to run my own business such as WorkSafeBC.
What advice would you give to others who want to open their own business?
For others hoping to start their own business, the timing will never be right. I jumped in head first and am making an honest go of it. I worked out of my SUV for the first few months and suffered but short term pain for long term gain.
Where can customers find you:
beardedplumbercanada.com
graham@beardedplumbercanada.com
Social Media: @beardedplumbercanada
