About Us
Our Story: From Shoeing Horses to Crafting Memories
One hot day in 2012, as Mike was shoeing a horse under the desert sun, inspiration struck. Looking down at the worn horseshoes in his hands, he wondered if these simple tools could become something more—something beautiful, meaningful, and enduring.
That day, The Heritage Forge was born.
Mike, a skilled farrier and blacksmith, had always found joy in working with his hands and shaping metal into something useful. But his spark of creativity needed a counterpart, and he found that in Elise. A talented dental hygienist with a passion for art, Elise had long felt called to do something more creative. Together, they dreamed of building a business that would allow them to follow their hearts, support their growing family, and raise their daughters without having to rely on daycare.
The path wasn’t easy. Starting a business meant juggling long days in the workshop and balancing the demands of raising two young children. But Mike and Elise were driven by their desire to create something unique—pieces that connected people to their Western roots, celebrated life’s milestones, and told personal stories.
In 2018, they became one of the first companies to introduce miniature branding irons. These small but mighty tools opened a world of possibilities—from customizing leather wallets to branding wedding favors. At the same time, Elise left her career as a dental hygienist to focus on The Heritage Forge full-time. Her artistic talent transformed the business, as she designed hundreds of custom brands for ranches, weddings, and businesses, pouring her creativity into every project.
The Heritage Forge grew alongside their family and their small farm, complete with chickens and the occasional bit of chaos. Today, Mike and Elise, together with their lead craftsmen Austin and Kamdyn, create products that blend old-world craftsmanship with modern design. From upcycled horseshoe art to custom branding irons that mark life’s most meaningful moments, their creations are a testament to the power of family, faith, and following your dreams.
At The Heritage Forge, we believe every piece tells a story—and we’re honored to be part of yours. Whether you’re branding your ranch, designing a wedding keepsake, or decorating your home, our mission is to create something that reflects who you are and what you cherish most.
Let us help you tell your story. Explore our collections or contact us to start designing your custom piece today.