Slicks Fabworks

Slicks Fabworks began as a family-driven passion project and has quickly grown into a thriving business that’s redefining outdoor cooking. Founded by Cody and Brittanie Eslick, Slicks Fabworks is built on a simple but powerful vision: to create more than just grills, but experiences that bring people together. Their customizable wood-burning stoves and grills are designed for those who value good food, great company, and the joy of making lasting memories around the fire. Each product reflects not only quality craftsmanship but also the Eslicks’ dedication to building a lifestyle rooted in connection and tradition.

As demand for their innovative stoves and grills grew, Slicks Fabworks recently celebrated a major milestone by moving into a larger building. This expansion marks a new chapter for the company, allowing them to increase production while continuing to deliver the same attention to detail and personal touch that customers have come to love. Slicks Fabworks is ready to inspire even more backyard gatherings, camping trips, and outdoor adventures for years to come.

Get to know Cody and Brittanie and hear their advice for other small business owners in their Q&A!

1. When did you start your business?
January 2022

2. Why did you decide to start your business?
We were tired of having extra income and free time. Just kidding! It’s about creating something lasting for our kids and family, a legacy they can be proud of.

3. What is your favorite memory in the business?
Finally getting the Laser Table Delivered!

4. What is the most rewarding part of running a small business?
Unlike a big box company, we get to know our customers directly. Hearing their feedback, seeing their excitement when they pick up an order that connection is priceless. Just as rewarding is seeing the laser parts we cut for other businesses come together into their own completed projects. Knowing our work plays a role in helping them succeed makes the effort even more meaningful.

5. What is the hardest part of running a small business?
Late nights, weekends, and missed personal time are often part of the deal.

6. How does the business get to positively impact your community?
Every dollar spent with us stays local from paying rent to a local landlord, buying steel and supplies from vendors, and payroll for our employees. That circulation strengthens the whole community.

7. Biggest challenge in the business?
The biggest challenge in running a small business is access to capital. We constantly balance the need to cover day-to-day expenses like payroll, rent, and materials with the bigger investments needed to grow like equipment, employees, and marketing.

8. What makes your business different from your competition?
Every piece reflects our values: grit, unity, and ingenuity. We don’t cut corners, we solve problems, and we put pride into every project, whether it’s a backyard grill or precision parts for a larger build.

9. Best tip for others in business?
The best tip we can give is to stay consistent and persistent. Small business isn’t an overnight win, it’s long hours, trial and error, and learning as you go. Focus on building relationships, take care of your customers, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or resources when you need them.

10. What’s something you wish someone had told you or that you wish you had learned earlier?
I wish I had learned earlier that you can’t do it all alone. Building a support network, whether it’s mentors, other business owners, or community resources, makes the journey a lot less heavy. If I had leaned into that sooner, some of the hardest stretches might have felt more manageable.

11. How did the SBDC help you on your venture?
The SBDC has been a game changer for our venture. They helped us sharpen our business plan, understand our financials, and prepare stronger financial applications. Having a team that could guide us through capital access, market strategy, and growth planning gave us the confidence to move from a home shop into a commercial space. Just knowing there’s a group of people invested in seeing our business succeed has also been incredibly motivating!

12. What’s a food you could eat forever?
Steak!