Hidden Gems: Meet Ariel Travis of SignHero & RowYak

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ariel Travis.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Ever since staying up late as a kid building K’nex roller coasters and airplanes, I’ve always been drawn to building things.

My path into entrepreneurship started in middle school making websites, and I’ve kept going — from a youth volunteer organization to a social meetup app, and now two businesses built around physical products.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Entrepreneurship swings between great and brutal, sometimes the same day. I’ve dealt with supply issues, economic headwinds, competitors who don’t play fair, and the usual logistical fires.

What’s always brought me back on track is a simple question: are we making great products and taking care of our customers? That focus has been the most reliable compass through any rough patch.

As you know, we’re big fans of SignHero & RowYak. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I run two businesses in different markets, but both come from the same instinct to build something meaningfully better or meaningfully different.

SignHero is a sign company focused on yard signs, political campaign signs, and equipment like sign stakes. We compete on fast turnaround, strong quality, and straightforward pricing. We also plant a tree for every product sold. Through our partnership with an organization called ForestPlanet, we’ve supported over 160,000 trees planted worldwide.

RowYak is a new watercraft company — our flagship product is a hybrid between a rowing shell and a kayak, designed so two people sit face-to-face on the water. It’s more social and interactive than a traditional kayak, and there’s nothing else quite like it on the water.

Pricing:

• Custom yard signs vary by quantity, size, and design — we’re especially competitive at 500+ signs, with faster turnaround and higher quality than most alternatives at similar price points
• Sign stakes and accessories are available individually or in bulk through our website (SignHeroUSA.com) and on Amazon
• RowYak is priced at $2,499 MSRP, which includes the boat, sculling oars, and kayak paddles — available for purchase at RowYakBoats.com

Contact Info:

• Website: www.SignHeroUSA.com – and – www.RowYakBoats.com