Justin Clark was used to being hands-on as vice president of sales and services for Visit Aurora and open space resources and events superintendent for the City of Aurora. Last year, he took this skill to a new level upon becoming a full-time craftsman. The creation of Black Rabbit Woodcraft based in Centennial was born out of his desire to fashion utilitarian items such as charcuterie boards, bookshelves, plant stands, and more from sustainably sourced materials.
People in the meetings and events industry have noticed. “I am currently sharing these items with some of Colorado’s best hotels and resorts for client gifts and amenities. In addition, a number of associations and corporate groups are purchasing items for their board members, employees, and event attendees,” Clark says.
While he is busy sawing and whittling away, Clark remains active with industry associations. He currently is the director of leadership development for Meeting Professionals International Rocky Mountain Chapter and director of programs for Meetings Industry Council (MIC) of Colorado. At the 2024 MIC of Colorado Educational Conference & Trade Show, he was presented with the Chairman’s Award, a nod to being co-chair for MIC’s Serving Up Hope luncheon for four years.
After hectic jobs in the meetings and events industry, Clark says he established Black Rabbit Woodcraft to live a more balanced and intentional life with the opportunity to create things that are tangible, beautiful, and useful. “I learned mainly through trial and error, frequent visits to my local Woodcraft shop, and videos on YouTube.”
Clark and his wife, Jana, also own Aurora-based Native Soap Co. that makes and sells small-batch, organic personal care products online and at farmers and craft markets. “Our most popular products are cold-processed soaps and whipped body butters and creams,” he says.
Being self-employed also has provided Clark with additional free time to enjoy his favorite pastimes. Clark says, “I love to read, practice traditional archery, tend our beehives, and cook meals using the vegetables and fruits my wife grows in our gardens.”
