Thankful for Greeley Hat Works,
A Legacy Since 1909, Thirty Years with Trent Johnson N OV E M B E R 2 02 6
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Hats Off to 117 Years of Greeley Hat Works, and to Trent Johnson, Who’s Built Them for 30 Congratulations from one 100-plus-year Greeley business to another.
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
Thankful for the Stories That Shape Us November is a time to reflect on the people, places, and traditions that make our community so special. This year, at Greeley Lifestyle, we have something extraordinary to be thankful for: 117 years of Greeley Hat Works and 30 years of Trent Johnson carrying its legacy forward. When you think of Greeley Hat Works, you might picture beautiful handcrafted cowboy hats, Hollywood celebrities, or even a president wearing a hat made right here in Greeley. But as we began putting together this special edition, I quickly realized that the most remarkable part of this story isn't the famous people or the incredible success. It's the relationships. More than 30 years ago, a young college student walked onto a local ranch looking for work. He couldn’t have imagined that opportunity would eventually lead him to the Oval Office, the sets of hit television shows like Yellowstone, Landman, Marshals, and Dutton Ranch, or customers around the world. But it did. And it all started right here, with a family willing to give him a chance. What I love most about Trent's story is that despite all his success, his heart has never left Greeley. Throughout the articles in this issue, you'll discover the friendships that have become family, the century-old tools that continue to shape his craft, and the gratitude he feels for the community that helped shape him. Trent talks about steam as a symbol of transformation. Just as steam allows a hatmaker to shape something beautiful, the people and opportunities in our lives shape who we become. I think that's a wonderful reminder of what makes a community so powerful. As the publisher of Greeley Lifestyle, I have the privilege of sharing stories like Trent's every month. And the longer I do this, the more I realize that a community isn't defined by its buildings or businesses. It's defined by the people who invest in one another, preserve traditions, and create opportunities for the next generation. This Thanksgiving, I'm especially grateful for those who came before us, those who continue to give back, and the stories that remind us why Greeley is such a special place to call home. Congratulations, Trent, on 30 incredible years. And thank you for reminding us that the greatest legacy we leave isn't what we build, but the lives we touch along the way. With gratitude, TA R A R A S M U S O N , P U B L I S H E R @GREELEYLIFESTYLE Support Local Everything.
November 2026 PUBLISHER
Tara Rasmuson | tara.rasmuson@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R
Kennidi Holcombe | kennidi.holcombe@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R
Caitlyn Quinn | caitlyn.quinn@citylifestyle.com C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S
Matt Idler, Caree Prince, Candace Lostroh In the Wild & Wonder Photography, Emily McCartney, Jason Alfaro, Right Eye Media, Emily Nicole Photography, Taryn Ashlee Photography, Woven Victory Photography, Photos by Diandra, and Photo Chic Imagery by Chelsea Stockton
Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Learn how to start your own publication at CityLifestyle.com//Franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Greeley Lifestyle® is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Greeley area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.
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No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Greeley Lifestyle® is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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inside the issue NOVE M B E R 2 0 2 6 | TH ANK F U L
32 Featured
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40
Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.
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WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?
Departments
A Legacy on 8th Avenue
6
Lifestyle Letter
10
City Scene
14
Business Monthly
24
Trend Setter PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
32
Inspired By LOCAL SERVICES
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Must See PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
46
Locally Sourced PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
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Local’s Choice PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
60
Artist’s Palette LOCAL SERVICES
64
Back Stage LIFE + CULTURE
70
Local Limelight LOCAL SERVICES
74
Gift Guide SHOPPING
78
Expert Help LOCAL SERVICES
82
Hometown Hero LOCAL SERVICES
86
Our Town PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
92
Seasonal Setups LIFE + CULTURE
On the Cover
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Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE
Hatmaker and Owner of Greeley Hat Works, Trent Johnson.
96
Events
40 46
Thirty Years of Stewardship Carried Greeley Hat Works Worldwide
Head of State
One Presidential Request Became a Remarkable Chapter for Greeley Hat Works
Hollywood Called
One Call Opened an Unexpected Door for Greeley Hat Works
Photography: Provided
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1-7: 2026 Northern Colorado Cattle Baron’s Ball, themed “Journey to a Cure,” held at Doubenmier Field on the University of Northern Colorado campus
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business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S
Balanced Movement Adds BUTI Balanced Movement Yoga is expanding its class lineup with BUTI Movement, a dynamic practice led by Marissa. Blending primal movement, cardio dance, deep core engagement, and functional conditioning through Spiral Structure Technique, BUTI offers a high-energy way to build strength, confidence, and body awareness. Participants are encouraged to move freely, challenge themselves, and reconnect with their bodies in a supportive, judgment-free environment. The class welcomes all experience levels as a new addition to Greeley’s wellness community.
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With gratitude. Good work is built on trust, strong relationships, and a shared commitment to the places and communities we call home. At Terra Firma Appraisal and Consulting, we’re grateful for the clients, colleagues, landowners, attorneys, lenders, and public agencies who entrust us with their properties, projects, and decisions.
Seasoning K BBQ Launches Happy Hour Seasoning K BBQ is adding Happy Hour to its weekday offerings beginning in November. The new Happy Hour runs Monday through Friday from 3–6 p.m. and includes 15% off appetizers, along with drink specials ranging from $4–$10. The drink menu includes beer, cocktails, soju, and soju flights. Happy Hour is available for dine-in guests.
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Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and the opportunity to do work that matters. Here’s to good work, good people, and much to be grateful for!
OCR Welcomes Joint Replacement Specialist, Dr. Robert Matar Jenna McCarty ARA, RPRA, R/W-AC Windsor, Colorado jenna@firmavalue.com firmavalue.com
Orthopaedic & Spine Center of the Rockies (OCR) is proud to welcome Dr. Robert Matar to its total joint surgery team in Greeley, CO. Fellowship-trained in adult reconstruction at Stanford University Medical Center, Dr. Matar specializes in hip and knee replacement surgery and is committed to helping patients regain mobility and return to the activities they enjoy most. He will be CONTINUED >
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especially focused on expanding access to exceptional joint replacement care for patients throughout Weld County.
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Ark Medical Celebrates One Year
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Ark Medical Aesthetics is celebrating its first anniversary and a year of serving the Northern Colorado community. Owner, Krista Plate, shares her gratitude for the patients, local businesses, friends, and community members who have supported Ark throughout its first year. Their trust and encouragement have made the milestone especially meaningful as Ark looks forward to another year of growth, connection, and caring for its patients.
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Blush Marks One Year Blush Studios celebrates its one-year anniversary with a team photo shoot, CONTINUED >
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Celebrate the West!
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marking a year of creativity, connection, and growth. Brandy Carter, Kat Angell-Dillen, Jen Bear, Shawna Wright, and Chloe Carter make up the Blush team, bringing their individual talents together while celebrating this exciting milestone and looking ahead to another year of serving the Greeley community.
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THANKFUL FOR OUR COMMUNITY We are thankful to live and work in this great community. Our bank is only as strong as our relationships and we look forward to helping you achieve your financial goals in the coming year.
Have a happy and safe holiday!
Habitat Finds a Permanent Home Greeley-Weld Habitat for Humanity has purchased its first permanent headquarters in nearly 40 years. The new Evans location will bring administrative offices, family services, operations, and the ReStore together under one roof. The organization plans to move into the renovated facility in spring 2027, creating a centralized home for its continued work throughout Weld County. Photography by Photos by Diandra
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FIND YOUR HAT THE BEST HAT IS NOT THE TRENDIEST ONE, IT'S THE ONE THAT LOOKS UNMISTAKABLY LIKE ITS WEARER A hat should never feel like a costume. That belief has allowed Greeley Hat Works to move comfortably between feedlots and fashion, rodeo arenas and city streets. Greeley Hat Works owner and hatmaker Trent Johnson has said he wants a hat to fit the person and their lifestyle, regardless of whether that person is a rancher, socialite, or someone trying Western wear for the first time. Finding the right one begins less with rules than with personality.
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THE WORKING HAT
This Page Left: Photo Credit: Emily Nicole Photography This Page Right: Photo Credit: Caree Prince Opposite: Photo Credit: Caree Prince
This one earns its character. For the rancher, horseman, or anyone whose hat spends more time outdoors than in a box, function matters: durable felt, a dependable fit, weather resistance, and a shape that works rather than simply photographs well. Trent calls cattlemen and women Greeley Hat Works’ “bread and butter” for a reason. Their hats are tools—and the wear they accumulate becomes part of the story. CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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THE MODERN WESTERN Western style that feels polished, personal, and easy to wear. Clean lines, thoughtful proportions, and restrained details make this the entry point for someone who appreciates Western influence but doesn’t necessarily own a pair of spurs. The goal is versatility: a hat that feels as natural with denim and dust as it does with a pair of polished boots.
Top Left: Photo Credit: Jason Alfaro, Right Eye Media Top Right: Photo Credit: Jason Alfaro, Right Eye Media Bottom Left: Photo Credit: Emily Nicole Photography
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THE STATEMENT MAKER
Left: Photo Credit: Emily Nicole Photography Right: Photo Credit:Jason Alfaro, Right Eye Media
Some hats are meant to enter the room first. Unexpected color, a dramatic brim, distinctive shaping, or personalized details turn the hat into the focal point. This is where GHW’s philosophy of personal expression becomes especially visible: custom does not have to mean traditional. The finished hat should reflect the person underneath it. CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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THE TIMELESS CLASSIC For the wearer who would rather invest once than chase a trend, classic proportions and premium materials allow the hat to age alongside personal style. A Greeley Hat Works hat is designed to be worn repeatedly, not reserved for a single Western-themed occasion. As longtime customer Jim Docheff puts it, “You put one on, and it’s a hat you can wear forever.”
Top Left: Photo Credit: Caree Prince Top Right: Photo Credit: Caree Prince
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THE FIRST HAT
Top: Photo Credit: Caree Prince
The most intimidating part may simply be putting one on. That is where fit matters. Trent describes his favorite part of hatmaking as working with the customer as a designer, and he calls listening the most important part of that job. Face shape,
lifestyle, comfort, color, and personal style all matter more than choosing what looks best on someone else. Because the point was never simply to find a hat. It was to find your hat.
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A L E G AC Y
on 8th
AV E N U E
Current Greeley Hat Works Owner, Trent Johnson and Previous Owner, Susie Orr at the Red Barn
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I NSP IR E D BY | LO CAL SE RVICE S
Ed and Susie Orr's Ranch in Greeley, CO
T h i r t y Ye a r s o f S t e w a rd s h i p C a r r i e d G re e l e y H a t Wo r k s Wo r l d w i d e PHOTOGRAPHY BY WOVEN VICTORY PHOTOGRAPHY BY
Long before Greeley Hat Works hats were worn by presidents, before television audiences recognized their silhouettes, and before the Greeley Hat Works showroom on 8th Avenue became a destination of its own, there was a barn.
OLIVIA SCHMITT, PROVIDED AND MATT IDLER
CONTINUED >
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Original sandwich board sign in front of the first store front owned by Trent Johnson on 8th Ave
Photo Credit: Matt Idler
Young Trent Johnson
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The business itself was hardly new. Greeley Hat Works traces its roots to 1909, when two Greek brothers established what was then The Shining Parlor in Greeley. More than eight decades later, the shop had passed through generations of hatmakers and into the hands of Susie Orr, who operated it from her family’s ranch. It was there that a college student from Pueblo wandered into a story already well underway. Trent Johnson did not arrive as a hatmaker. He was attending the University of Northern Colorado and had no meaningful ranching experience when he asked Ed and Susie Orr for work. His pitch was simple: give him a week. If he wasn’t worth keeping, tell him what he could have done better. More than 30 years later, Susie remembers something much smaller. After the ranch hands finished one of their meals, everyone headed back to work. Trent was the only one who carried his glass back to the house. “He was always so responsible with everything and respectful,” she says. “We didn’t have to tell him what to do. He just saw it, and he did it.” That trust grew. Trent worked the ranch, eventually lived in the Orr family’s basement, and became part of a family whose influence extended well beyond teaching him how to shape felt. As Trent and Susie recently reminisced together, the memories spilled out easily: county fairs, ranch mishaps, family meals, borrowed equipment, long days, and a young Trent becoming, as Susie puts it, part of the family. All the while, Greeley Hat Works occupied a small corner of the barn. The coincidence is almost too perfect. As a child, Trent had been the kid who collected hats instead of baseball cards. During a family trip to Epcot, he saved his spending money for a fez from Morocco, a beret from France, a bobby hat from England, and other headwear from around the world. Decades later, even Trent seems amused by the path. “We couldn’t have planned this,” he says while reminiscing with Susie. “I walk into a barn. Meet the family.”
CONTINUED >
Photo Credit: Emily Nicole Photography NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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Ranch work became an apprenticeship. Trent learned to wash hats before he was allowed to shape and crease them, and Susie was not interested in passing work simply because it was finished. Trent has recalled having to reblock hats and begin again when they weren’t right. What Trent learned in that barn extended beyond technique. Susie taught him standards, responsibility, and a way of caring for customers that followed him long after the apprenticeship ended. Looking back with her three decades later, Trent put it simply: “I learned so much from you [Susie Orr]—more than hats.” In 1996, Trent purchased Greeley Hat Works and became the fourth hatmaker entrusted with its legacy. The transfer was meaningful for both of them. Susie had become known as “Susie the Hatter,” and during their recent conversation, she acknowledged that selling the shop meant losing part of an identity she had built around it. For a time, the two grew apart before eventually sitting down, talking through it, and rebuilding a relationship that had always been about more than hats. What followed over the next 30 years was extraordinary growth.
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The scale may be one of the clearest ways to see how much has changed. The boutique operation Trent inherited produced roughly 60 hats a year. Today, Greeley Hat Works can produce up to 100 hats a day, with its hats reaching presidents, professional athletes, musicians, actors, ranchers, and television sets around the world. Yet the handwork, individual fit, and attention given to the person beneath the hat remain. Trent’s definition of success has remained remarkably local. “Yes, we build hats for movies and famous people, but the cattlemen and women—they are our bread and butter,” Trent explained. That may be the most fitting measure of the past 30 years. Greeley Hat Works has grown beyond Greeley without growing away from it. The name is still on the door. The old tools are still at work. The community that gave a college kid room to learn remains the community the business calls home. And three decades after Susie entrusted him with her chapter of the story, her assessment of what Trent did with it is considerably simpler. “I’m proud of you.”
NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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President George W. Bush with Greeley Hat Works owner, Trent Johnson
One Presidential Request Became a Remarkable Chapter for Greeley Hat Works
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Head of State 40
M UST SE E | P RO FESS I O NAL SE RVICE S
Of all the unusual requests Trent Johnson, Owner of Greeley Hat Works, has received in 30 years of making hats, one presented a particularly difficult challenge: make a custom cowboy hat for the President of the United States, without being allowed to measure his head. The opportunity came through Greeley Hat Works’ longstanding relationship with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. President George W. Bush was scheduled to speak at its national convention in Denver, and the association wanted to present its keynote speaker with a custom hat. Without measurements, Trent did what a hatmaker could do: he studied his customer. He watched Bush on television, looking beyond the speeches and paying attention to the shape and proportions of his head. Then he called longtime friend and customer Red Steagall, the Texas cowboy poet who knew Bush personally and, decades earlier, had been Trent’s father’s roommate. Steagall helped narrow in on Bush’s preferences for the crown and brim, and Trent took it from there. Before the presentation, Trent was warned not to expect much. The president received gifts constantly. Bush would likely accept the box backstage, thank everyone graciously, close it, and hand it to a member of his entourage. Instead, Bush opened the box, put on the hat, and immediately began looking for First Lady Laura Bush. “Where’s Laura? Where’s Laura?” Trent remembers him asking, eager to show her his new hat. Bush walked onto the convention stage wearing it. From his seat in the audience, Trent remembers the moment almost in slow motion: camera shutters firing as the president walked toward the podium in a hat made at Greeley Hat Works, tipped it back with his familiar ease, and addressed the crowd.
CONTINUED >
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Trent had been told he probably would not have an opportunity to meet Bush, either, but seated near the front beside W.D. Farr, he watched the president work his way through the room shaking hands and decided he could not let him walk past without saying something. “Sir, it was an honor to make you that hat,” Trent told him. Bush recognized him. “You’re Trent!” For a hatmaker who had never even been allowed to measure the man, those two words were enough. Someone retrieved the hat from backstage, Bush put it back on, and the two posed together for a photograph. It could easily have been the end of a story Trent would tell for the rest of his life. Instead, Bush left Denver aboard Air Force One for Salt Lake City and the 2002 Winter Olympics, and somewhere during the flight, took the time to write Trent a personal thank-you note. Then the hat began appearing in places Trent never expected to see his work. His friend Harold Richter of Richter Scale Productions was working at the Olympics and found himself watching Bush appear with the Olympic torch behind him, wearing the Greeley Hat Works hat. A hat shaped in a Greeley shop had suddenly become part of moments unfolding on a much larger stage. The next invitation brought Trent even closer to it. He traveled to Washington with representatives from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and was invited into the Oval
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M UST SE E | P RO FESS I O NAL SE RVICE S
Office to personally present another hat to President Bush. Even waiting to enter felt surreal. Trent remembers looking into a nearby meeting room and seeing Condoleezza Rice conducting a meeting. Then he walked into the office he had seen countless times on television, this time to give the president another hat. For that presentation, Trent wanted every detail to feel worthy of the occasion. He pushed the craftsman who made his hat carriers to create a carrier unlike anything they had done before: military blue on the outside, gray flocking inside, and the presidential seal embossed into the carrier. The hat itself was equally personal. Instead of the typical single-color interior stamp, Trent created a two-color George W. Bush logo, added a sterling silver buckle with a 14-karat-gold “W,” and had Bush’s signature made into a die so it could be stamped inside the hat. Trent still has the die. He also had a replica made so his children could take it to University High School for show-and-tell. Soon after that school visit, Trent received a phone call from the U.S. State Department. The caller wanted to confirm that he was the hatmaker who had recently presented the president with a hat and the distinctive carrier bearing the presidential seal. Then came the question Trent could not have anticipated: Did he have any more of those carriers? President Bush wanted Greeley Hat Works to create presidential gifts for special dignitaries. The request took an already remarkable relationship somewhere else entirely. Trent was now making hats President Bush
“I still get goosebumps thinking about it. He [President George W. Bush] walked onto that stage wearing a hat made right here at Greeley Hat Works.” - Greeley Hat Works Owner, Trent Johnson would give to other world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, the Vice President of Sudan, and the President of Guatemala. For one of those commissions, information came through President Bush’s staff, and Trent remembers being told that if he had additional questions, he could reach out to Moscow. The hatmaker in Greeley, Colorado, suddenly had Moscow as a possible follow-up call. The presidential commissions eventually ended, but Bush remained a customer. Trent says he has made eight hats for him over the years, and one of the quieter stories from much later may say more about their relationship than any photograph from Washington. A man once came into Greeley Hat Works with an old hat he hoped Trent could restore. The hat was too far gone, and Trent told him candidly that the work would not be worthwhile.
The customer looked at him and replied, “George was right. You’re as honest as the day is long.” Trent had no idea what he meant. The man explained that he had been checking cattle when Bush rode up with his daughters. Bush complimented his hat, and during their conversation told him about his own hatmaker in Greeley. He should go see Trent. Years after the convention in Denver, the Olympic appearance, Air Force One, the Oval Office, and presidential gifts sent to international leaders, George W. Bush was still recommending the hatmaker who had once studied his head on television because he was not allowed to measure him. The relationship lasted beyond those moments. Long after the cameras were gone, a customer remembered who made his hat, and sent someone else to Greeley.
NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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Long before Yellowstone became a cultural phenomenon, Taylor Sheridan was simply a customer whose hat Trent Johnson, Owner of Greeley Hat Works, had made through the Western horse-show world at the Cactus Classic in Arizona. Today, Sheridan is best known as the writer, director, and producer behind Yellowstone, the television series
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Trent Johnson and Actor, Jeremy Renner (Cory Lambert, Wind River)
Actor, Cole Hauser (Rip, Yellowstone) & Trent Johnson
Creator of Yellowstone, Taylor Sheridan, Actor, Wes Bentley (Jamie Dutton, Yellowstone), Trent Johnson, and Actor, Luke Grimes (Casey Dutton, Yellowstone)
that brought contemporary Western storytelling to audiences around the world. Sheridan was Taylor Sheridan even then, Trent says, “but not this Taylor Sheridan.” There was no Hollywood introduction or carefully orchestrated connection between the two. There was a hat, and a few years later, Sheridan went looking for the man who had made it. In 2015, Sheridan tracked down Trent’s phone number through mutual friend Matt Kimes, co-founder of Western apparel brand Kimes Ranch Jeans, and called him on a Friday night. At the Johnson house, it was family movie night, and Trent was downstairs with his family when the phone rang. Sheridan told him he was working on a film called Wind River with Jeremy Renner, the Academy Award-nominated actor known for The Hurt Locker and Marvel’s Avengers films, and wanted Greeley Hat Works to make the hats. Trent’s response was decidedly less Hollywood. “Cool, bro,” he remembers telling him. “Yeah, it’s family movie night. I’ll call you back Monday.” Then Trent Googled Taylor Sheridan. “Oh snap.” Sheridan sent him the script, Trent read it, and soon the hatmaker who had taken the call from his basement in Greeley was on a plane to Utah. He spent four days around the production, studying the people who would wear the hats. For Renner’s character, authenticity came down to a detail most viewers would never consciously notice: where the actor’s hands naturally touched his hat. Trent photographed Renner handling it so he could see where fingers met felt and where wear CONTINUED >
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Kevin Costner & Trent Johnson
would realistically accumulate. If the hat needed to look lived in, Trent did not want someone randomly adding dirt until it looked old. “I wanted it to be real, not just dirty,” he says. It was a small detail, but one that captured the way Trent approached an unfamiliar world. A movie set might have been new territory, but the standard was not. The hat needed to look as though it belonged to the person wearing it. It worked. In May 2017, Sheridan called again, this time with another project. “Hey man, I’m doing this TV show called Yellowstone.” Trent remembers giving him a hard time about the idea of television before Sheridan sent him the script for Season 1, Episode 1. Once he started reading the story and the names attached to it, his reaction changed. “This is legit.” Sheridan bought him a plane ticket back to Utah, and Trent packed based on his previous four-day trip for Wind River. What he had failed to notice was that Sheridan had purchased him a one-way ticket. The quick trip Trent anticipated became a much longer immersion in the world being created around Yellowstone. He spent days around the production and evenings going into town for dinner with the group, getting a f irsthand look at the people and details shaping Sheridan’s contemporar y Western world.
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There were moments when the absurdity of where his career had taken him was impossible to miss. One of the people sitting around those dinner tables was Academy Award-winning actor Kevin Costner, who would portray ranch patriarch John Dutton in Yellowstone. Trent still tells that part with the self-deprecating humor that runs through many of his celebrity stories. Sitting at a table with Costner, he jokes, was a reminder that nobody was looking for the hatmaker from Greeley. But the joke hid a real shift. Trent was no longer watching the Western world of film and television from Colorado. He was inside it, seeing how actors moved, how they wore their hats, and how Sheridan wanted the world of Yellowstone to feel. The relationship did not end with those early days of the series. Greeley Hat Works’ work continued within the Yellowstone world. What began with a hat made for Sheridan at an Arizona horse show had grown into more than Trent could have anticipated when his phone rang during family movie night. Looking backward, the progression runs from the Cactus Classic to a hat for Taylor Sheridan, from Matt Kimes passing along a phone number to Wind River and Yellowstone. None of it began with an attempt to get into Hollywood. It began because someone remembered the hat Trent had made and wanted to find him again.
Yellowstone Cast & Trent Johnson
Yellowstone Script Signed by Cast
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THE PEOPLE
Beneath the Brims Thirty years owning Greeley Hat Works has brought Trent Johnson remarkable opportunities, from presidential commissions to Hollywood productions. But ask him about the people who have shaped those years, and the conversation quickly turns to longtime friends, ranching families, fellow artists, and customers who have become part of his life.
Some relationships began with a single hat. Others reach back generations. Along the way, business partnerships became friendships, families grew up together, and shared experiences created bonds that extend well beyond the hat shop. Through their stories, and Trent’s own reflections, a more personal picture emerges of the man behind Greeley Hat Works.
The Hats Mark the Years, but the People are what Trent Johnson Remembers Most PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED, PHOTO CHIC IMAGERY BY CHELSEA STOCKTON, TARYN ASHLEE PHOTOGRAPHY, AND CANDACE LOSTROH IN THE WILD & WONDER PHOTOGRAPHY
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The Sanger Family [Photo Credit: Candace Lostroh In the Wild & Wonder Photography]
THE SANGER FAMILY / LOCAL RANCHING FAMILY For Chad and Marcy Sanger's family, Trent Johnson has long been more than the man who makes their hats. To their boys, he's Uncle Trent, a familiar presence who has found ways to make ordinary days at the hat shop unforgettable. One visit began with an unusual assignment. Trent asked the boys to come to Greeley Hat Works and start brushing hats. They couldn't understand what they had done to deserve the chore. What Trent hadn't told them was that NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers would soon be walking through the door. When Rodgers arrived, the boys discovered the real reason for their visit. They met him and had their photographs taken together, turning what appeared to be another afternoon of work into a memory Trent still loves telling. The surprise says something about the relationship Trent has built with the family. Even with a famous customer arriving, he was thinking about two boys he wanted to include in the experience. For the Sangers, the hat shop has become a place where family, friendship, and the occasional extraordinary surprise come together. CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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THE LARSON FAMILY / LOCAL RANCHING FAMILY
Trent Johnson with members of the Larson Family [Photo Credit: Taryn Ashlee Photography]
For the Larson family, Greeley Hat Works has been part of ranch life longer than Trent Johnson has owned the business. Jack Larson remembers Trent as a college student working in the hat shop, long before national recognition brought Hollywood productions and presidential commissions to Greeley. Across generations, the Weld County ranching family has relied on hats built for the demands of everyday work. A good hat needs to withstand the weather, hold its shape, and be ready to return to the ranch the next morning. The Larsons have watched Greeley Hat Works grow while maintaining the craftsmanship that first earned their loyalty. For Trent, families like the Larsons represent the foundation of Greeley Hat Works. “Yes, we build hats for movies and famous people,” he says, “but the cattlemen and women—they are our bread and butter. The sweat in their hats is their badge of honor in feeding America and the world.” The Larsons' relationship with the shop reflects that philosophy: generations of working hats, familiar faces, and a shared appreciation for the Western way of life.
Kamrynn Patterson, Miss Rodeo Colorado 2027 [Photo Credit: Photo Chic Imagery by Chelsea Stockton]
KAMRYNN PATTERSON / MISS RODEO COLORADO 2027 Trent Johnson has watched Kamrynn Patterson grow up through the Western and rodeo community, making hats for her since she was approximately 12 years old. Over those years, Kamrynn has grown from a young rodeo enthusiast into a rodeo queen, representing a new generation carrying Western traditions forward. Through it all, Greeley Hat Works has remained part of her journey. For Trent, the relationship reflects a familiar part of his work that rarely receives the same attention as his celebrity commissions. He has the opportunity to make hats for young people as they find their place in the Western world, then watch them grow into the traditions they represent. Kamrynn's story is a reminder that a hat can accompany someone through many different stages of life. The young girl Trent first fitted years ago has grown up, but the connection to the hatmaker who knew her then remains.
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PAUL KROPP / LONGTIME FRIEND AND CUSTOMER Nearly 30 years ago, Paul Kropp finished a cheeseburger lunch in downtown Greeley and decided to take a walk. A sandwich board advertising Greeley Hat Works caught his attention, and he followed it down the stairs into a small shop. There, he met Trent Johnson. What began as a chance visit became a friendship that followed both men through decades of personal milestones. Paul made a habit of stopping by whenever work brought him through Colorado, sometimes just to visit and see what Trent was making. Over time, Trent came to know Paul's family and children. When Paul's father passed away, Trent unexpectedly appeared at the funeral, a gesture Paul has never forgotten. “He shows up—not because he has to, but because people matter to him,” Paul says. Paul has watched Trent build relationships with people across the Western world and far beyond it, always finding a way to make others feel welcome. The shop may have changed since that first afternoon, but Paul still makes time for a Trent visit whenever he's in Colorado. One ordinary walk led to a friendship neither man could have anticipated, and nearly three decades later, the connection remains.
Paul Kropp and Trent Johnson
STEPHEN HOUSER / THIRD-GENERATION OWNER OF STAGES WEST (TN)
Trent Johnson, Marlene Houser, and Stephen Houser
When Stephen Houser first met Trent Johnson in a crowded Denver showroom, he was exploring the possibility of bringing custom hats to his family's Western retail store, Stages West, in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. A few orders turned into larger orders, trunk shows, and eventually a friendship neither man could have predicted. Trent remembers how naturally they connected, sharing ideas about business, family, and life. Stephen remembers something even more personal: the way Trent made him feel valued from the beginning. “He has the ability to make you feel special, wanted, and appreciated without even trying,” Stephen says. “It's not forced it's real.” Their friendship grew far beyond business. Trent stood beside Stephen as the best man at his wedding and later traveled to Tennessee to serve as a pallbearer at his father's funeral. Trent also remembers sharing the father-daughter dance with Stephen's bride. Through celebrations and difficult seasons, the two have remained close, even after Stephen's family sold Stages West. “He is a famous hatmaker to many,” Stephen says, “but to me he is my best friend, Trent.” For Trent, that feeling is mutual. What started with a few hats became one of the closest friendships of his life. CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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RED STEAGALL / COWBOY POET AND ENTERTAINER Red Steagall's connection to Trent Johnson began before Trent was born. In the 1960s, the country Western singer, cowboy poet, and future Texas Cowboy Poet Laureate shared an apartment in Pueblo, Colorado, with a school teacher named Garry Johnson. Years later, at a rodeo, a young hatmaker approached Red with an unexpected introduction: “you know my daddy.” That young man was Trent, Garry’s son. The chance reunion became a lasting relationship. Red began wearing Trent's hats and watched as the young craftsman purchased Greeley Hat Works and developed it into a nationally recognized business. Their friendship also became part of one of Trent's most remarkable commissions. When Trent needed to make a hat for President George W. Bush without taking measurements, he turned to Red, who knew Bush personally, for guidance on the president's preferences. For Red, however, Trent's success carries a meaning that goes well beyond business. “It's like watching a member of my family hit a home run in a tight game,” he says. The friendship connects two generations of the Johnson family, beginning with a shared apartment in Pueblo and continuing through the hats Trent makes today.
TODD MCCARTNEY / MCCARTNEY RANCH CO. (TX)
Photo Credit: Emily McCartney
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More than 20 years ago, Todd McCartney and fellow cattlemen Ron Gill and Curt Pate were traveling the country promoting better livestock handling through Stockmanship & Stewardship. Trent Johnson admired their commitment to the cattle industry and offered to make each of them a custom hat. Todd remembers accepting enthusiastically. Since then, Greeley Hat Works has become a fixture in his daily life, whether he's working cattle on his family's sixth-generation ranch, attending church, or dressing for a special occasion. “I wear a Trent Johnson every day. Every. Day,” Todd says. Over the years, Trent has also made hats for Todd's wife and children. Todd speaks with particular gratitude about the generosity behind those gifts, something he considers every bit as remarkable as the craftsmanship. Trent's admiration runs just as deep. He affectionately calls Todd “the Toddfather” and describes their relationship as a mentorship. Todd's wisdom, sincerity, and perspective have made a lasting impression on him, and Trent often finds himself passing along the lessons he has learned from his friend. For two men whose lives revolve around the Western way of life, the relationship has become something much greater than the hats that first brought them together.
DEAN FISH / ARIZONA RANCHER, GHW AMBASSADOR Dean Fish met Trent Johnson at the National Cattlemen's Beef Association convention in 2013 through their mutual friend Todd McCartney. At the time, Dean wasn't sure he should spend the money on a custom hat. He bought one anyway, beginning what would become a lasting friendship and loyalty to Greeley Hat Works. Years later, Trent invited Dean to represent the brand as an ambassador. Dean couldn't understand why. He wasn't a celebrity, didn't have a large social media following, and spent his days working in the cattle industry. Trent's explanation was simple. Dean was exactly the kind of person he wanted representing his hats: genuine, hardworking, and deeply committed to people, livestock, and the cattle industry. Dean eventually came to see the decision differently. Famous faces might introduce Greeley Hat Works to new audiences, but people like him could share its story with those who wear hats every day. “I really believe it's Trent's heart and true fondness for people that initiated this move,” Dean says. What Dean initially considered an unlikely opportunity became an expression of the trust and friendship the two men had developed. Bria Hammock & Trent Johnson
BRIA HAMMOCK / CONTEMPORARY WESTERN ARTIST When Bria Hammock walked into Greeley Hat Works to purchase a hat, neither she nor Trent Johnson expected the visit to lead to an ongoing creative partnership. As Trent worked on customizing her hat, the two began discussing Bria's artwork. Trent showed her around the shop, sharing his own approach to craftsmanship, and the conversation quickly revealed a creative connection. Since then, they have turned hats into canvases, developed apparel collections, and explored the meeting point between contemporary art and Western tradition. Their collaborations include Of Here, a collection bringing together Bria's artwork, custom hats, cowboy poetry, Wyoming whiskey, and storytelling. Bria also created the artwork for Greeley Hat Works' 30th-anniversary merchandise. For Trent, the relationship represents the creative possibilities that emerge when artists share ideas and trust one another's instincts. “What I love about working with Trent is that he's always willing to say, ‘Heck yes, let's try it,’” Bria says. Their work continues to evolve, but Bria considers the friendship behind it just as important as the finished pieces. Two artists who met over a hat discovered a shared enthusiasm for seeing what they could create together. NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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A MORNING OF HOPE. A COMMUNITY OF POSSIBILITY.
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December 10th | 7:30 AM | DoubleTree by Hilton – Greeley Join us for a hope-f illed morning celebrating local youth, honoring community dedication, and supporting great futures through Boys & Girls Clubs of Weld County.
Reserve your table - $1,000 for a table of 10 Scan the QR code for more information. www.bgcweld.org/hopebreakfast
Tools that Shape the Story The Century-Old Tools Behind Greeley Hat Works Prove Precision Doesn't Always Require New Technology
Inside Greeley Hat Works, history does not sit behind glass. It measures heads, preserves patterns, shapes felt, withstands pressure, and goes back to work the next morning.
01 | The Conformateur + Formillion They may look like mechanical curiosities, but together, the conformateur and formillion accomplish something a standard measurement cannot: they capture the actual shape of a person’s head. The conformateur is placed on the customer’s head, where its pins trace the individual contours of the skull and create a paper pattern at one-sixth scale. That small pattern is then placed into the formillion, which enlarges it back to life size. The resulting full-size pattern gives the hatmaker an accurate representation of the customer’s unique head shape. Trent calls the process “technical with no technology.” More importantly, after decades of making custom hats, he has yet to find something that does the job better.
02 | The Cedar Pattern The full-size pattern is then transferred to cedar, creating a physical replica of the customer’s individual head shape. During the hatmaking process, the cedar pattern gives the hatmaker a lasting reference for shaping and fitting the hat. Once the hat is complete, it goes home with the customer, where it can be placed inside the hat when it is not being worn to help preserve its custom shape and fit. From conformateur, to formillion, to cedar, each step preserves something measurements alone cannot: the shape of the person who will ultimately wear the hat.
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Greeley Hat Works owner and hatmaker Trent Johnson calls it “Retro-Tech”—traditional hatmaking equipment kept in service not because it looks interesting in photographs, but because it still does the job exceptionally
well. After 30 years under Trent’s stewardship, these tools remain part of a process that values precision (not perfection), craftsmanship, and the individual wearing the finished hat.
03 | The Pattern Vault Somewhere inside Greeley Hat Works is the shape of nearly every head that has passed through its doors. The Pattern Vault preserves the shop’s head-pattern cards, creating a physical archive of customers accumulated over decades. Rather than reducing those records to a few measurements on a screen, the system preserves the individual contours needed to recreate a customer’s fit years later. It is part recordkeeping, part working history—and one more example of Greeley Hat Works choosing the method that works best rather than simply the method that is newest.
04 | The Silver Tape Measure Holder Not every tool at Greeley Hat Works is more than a century old. Some are simply made to last. A few years ago, Trent’s friends at Edward H. Bohlin created a one-of-a-kind sterling silver holder for the tape measures he uses in the shop. Designed by Josh Alis, the piece was made specifically for Trent as a birthday gift— and according to Trent, there is not another one like it. The renowned silversmith’s history includes the elaborate silverwork associated with Hollywood and the Rose Parade, making the piece as much craftsmanship as utility. At Greeley Hat Works, however, it has a job to do: it holds Trent’s tape measures. NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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STEAM
Thirty Years of Shaping Hats Transformed a Business, Its Owner, and the Relationships Built Along the Way Steam rises from the workbench at Greeley Hat Works much as it has for generations. Water becomes vapor. Heat softens tightly felted fibers. Something once rigid becomes pliable enough to take on a new shape beneath a hatmaker’s hands. After 30 years as owner of Greeley Hat Works, Trent Johnson sees his life’s work somewhere in that process. “Steam, to me, represents transformation,” he says. A hat begins round and flat, without the character it will eventually carry. Steam allows Trent to work the fibers, molding the crown and shaping the brim until what began as a hat body starts to belong to someone. In Trent’s words, he gets to “put character into the hat and make it a part of a person.” And then the transformation leaves his hands. A finished hat can change how someone looks, but Trent has watched it change how people feel about themselves, too. For the rancher, farmer, or cowboy who depends on it through long days outside, the transformation can be practical. The hat isn’t simply an accessory or expression of Western style. It is a tool built to do a job. Over three decades, Trent has watched the same kind of transformation take place at Greeley Hat Works. There have been difficult years and unexpected seasons of growth. During the financial crisis of 2008, when businesses across the country were struggling, Greeley Hat Works experienced its first significant growth spurt. Trent came to believe
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customers were looking differently at value. A well-made hat might cost more upfront, but it could be worn for years. Longevity mattered. As the business grew, its reach stretched farther from Greeley. Western stores around the world began placing larger orders, sometimes for 50 or 100 hats at a time. It was a sign of success, but it also changed something Trent hadn’t expected to miss so deeply. He no longer knew every head. For years, Trent had been part of the customer’s experience from the beginning. He measured the person, learned what the hat needed to do, shaped it, fit it, and often got to know the person beneath it. Wholesale growth meant a hat could leave Greeley and land on the head of someone in Texas, France, Holland, or somewhere else entirely without Trent ever meeting the person who would wear it. He was grateful for the growth. The distance was harder. “I can’t measure every head. I can’t build every hat,” he says. “And that’s hard.” Trent’s own role transformed alongside the company. The young hatmaker became an owner responsible for employees, growth, numbers, and decisions. There were more spreadsheets and less time at the workbench. Even now, given the choice, Trent knows where he would rather be: shaping hats and spending time with people in the front of the store.
Trent Johnson, Owner of Greeley Hat Works
“We all have the chance to mold and change and be part of a community and make transformations in a community,” CONTINUED >
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“I could talk all day about customers that have become friends that Because after 30 years, it is the people—not the numbers—that bring the meaning of that transformation into focus. Recently, longtime customer Paul Kropp had a meeting in South Denver. Kropp lives in Oklahoma and works out of Indiana, but he changed his flight to arrive early so he could make another stop: Greeley Hat Works. Nearly three decades earlier, Kropp had been a customer when Trent was still working from the basement location on 8th Avenue. Somewhere across the years, that description stopped fitting. He became a friend. While recounting the visit, Trent’s words began to slow. For a man who can easily fill a room with stories, there was suddenly more space between them. The hats made for celebrities are memorable. So are the movie sets, famous stages, international clients, and extraordinary places Greeley Hat Works has traveled. But when Trent looks back at 30 years, those aren’t the stories that make it difficult for him to speak. “I could talk all day about customers that have become friends that have become family,” he says. “It’s all about relationships.” The same is true of people who have worked alongside him and of a community that has surrounded Greeley Hat Works as it has grown. And that is where Trent’s idea of steam comes full circle. Water transforms into steam. Steam transforms the fibers. The fibers take on a shape, and the hat takes on the character of the person who wears it. That hat can change how someone feels, how someone looks, or even how someone works. But sometimes, it does something much larger. A person walks through the door for a hat. A conversation begins. They return. Years pass. A customer becomes a friend. A friend becomes family.
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have become family,” Trent Johnson says. “It's all about relationships.”
“A lot of these connections in my community started with steam, started with a hat,” Trent says. “But way more than that.” Thirty years of those connections have transformed Greeley Hat Works, too— from the business Trent took ownership of as a young hatmaker into one whose work now travels around the world, while the relationships closest to home continue to mean the most. Trent sees transformation as something that extends beyond a hat shop. People have the opportunity to change, to shape the places around them, and to become part of something larger than themselves. “We all have the chance to mold and change and be part of a community and make transformations in a community,” he says. Perhaps that is what there is to be most thankful for. After 30 years, the steam still rises. It still softens the fibers. Trent still puts his hands to the felt and begins to shape it. He simply understands now that the hat was never the only thing being transformed.
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The Legacy Cont inues
The Future of Greeley Hat Works Begins by Knowing What Should Never be Rushed
Crafter at Greeley Hat Works
Thirty years from now, Owner, Trent Johnson hopes someone can open the door to Greeley Hat Works and immediately know where they are. Maybe it will be the smell. Trent has spent so many years surrounded by felt, leather, steam, and the workings of a hat shop that he no longer notices the particular scent others mention when they walk inside. But he hopes it is still there. More importantly, he hopes the
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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warmth is there. The people. The unmistakable feeling that walking into Greeley Hat Works is an experience rather than simply a transaction. Not everyone who walks through the door buys a hat that day. Trent does not want that to change. The goal has never been to simply “close the deal.” A customer might have a head measured, talk through how a hat will be worn, watch a pattern take shape, meet the people behind the craft, and begin to understand why something handmade takes time. For Trent, that experience is as much a part of Greeley Hat Works as the finished hat. It is also why he is not particularly concerned that handmade hatmaking exists in a world increasingly built around speed. There will always be something faster. There will always be something cheaper. But Trent believes slow has been given an unfair reputation. At Greeley Hat Works, slow means measuring a head rather than assuming a size. It means tracing its individual shape, adjusting 46 pins to capture its contours, and hand-cutting a cedar pattern to preserve them. It means talking with the person who will wear the hat about where it is going, what it needs to do, and how it should feel. None of that is fast. That is precisely the point. “Slow is precision,” Trent says. “Slow is not perfection.” For Trent, craftsmanship is a slow craft, and intentionally so. It requires patience, practiced hands, and the willingness to give every detail the attention it deserves. Perfection is not the promise. Care is. Precision is. Taking the time to do something right is. Trent has had opportunities to purchase equipment that could make parts of the process faster. He knows how mass-production factories achieve their volume. But increasing speed simply because the technology exists has never been the measure of progress at Greeley Hat Works. The people learning the craft today give him confidence that it does not have to be. When Trent talks about the crafters working inside Greeley Hat Works, one phrase comes quickly: “I’m in awe.” He sees individuals with different personalities, interests, and strengths learning a craft that depends on human hands and judgment. And he still gets a particular satisfaction when a customer returns years later loving a hat, allowing Trent to look at the records, find the initials of the person who made it, and introduce that crafter to the person who has been wearing their work.
He remembers doing exactly that from much farther away. While at a show in Australia, Trent met a man whose Greeley Hat Works hat had been worn so extensively that its satin liner was gone. Trent photographed the inside and sent it back to the team in Greeley so the employee whose initials remained inside could see where their work had ended up. A hat made by someone in Greeley had crossed an ocean, been worn for years, and eventually found its way back to its maker through a photograph. That is the legacy Trent wants the next generation to understand. Not simply how to make the hat, but why the details matter. Why the person wearing it matters. Why quality, customer service, integrity, and personality should remain recognizable regardless of how large the company becomes or what tools become available. Thirty years from now, Trent will not measure success by whether Greeley Hat Works resisted change. It has been changing for more than a century. The tools may evolve. The business may grow. Another generation of hatmakers will leave its own fingerprints on the craft. What matters is whether the right things remain. The quality. The integrity. The personality. The warmth of being greeted by another person. The time spent understanding who a hat is for before beginning to make it. The experience of walking through the door and knowing this could only be Greeley Hat Works. And Trent hopes he gets to see it. “Wow,” he says, allowing himself to picture the shop three decades from now. “I hope I’m still here to walk in the door in 30 years.” If he is, perhaps the greatest measure of what he built will not be how much has stayed exactly the same. It will be what he recognizes. The smell of the shop. The warmth of the people. A customer lingering longer than expected. A hatmaker taking the time to get something right. Steam rising somewhere in the background. Another generation is learning that slow can mean precision, and that the person beneath the hat matters as much as the hat itself. Greeley Hat Works was already a legacy when Trent Johnson walked into it more than 30 years ago. He did not begin its story, and the greatest hope for a steward may be that he will not be the one to finish it. Someday, another generation will carry it forward. And if they preserve the things that mattered most, Trent will be able to open that door, breathe it in, look around, and know exactly where he is.
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TRADITIONS MOVE WITH YOU. The familiar recipes. The stories told around the table. The little moments that become lifelong memories. Homes may change, but the traditions that make them special come with us. Tipping my hat to you for the opportunity to help you find the places where your next chapters unfold.
Real Estate for the Life You're Building.
SONJA BELFIORE
REALTOR®
(970) 978-7012 | www.BelfioreAndCo.com | Sonja@BelfioreandCo.com
|
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HATitude
®
A Little Western Character Goes a Long Way
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
A great hat is personal, but giving one doesn’t have to mean guessing the size, shape, or style. From the full custom experience to something small but unmistakably Greeley Hat Works, there are plenty of ways to give a little HATitude®. Sometimes the best gift is simply giving someone the chance to make it their own.
GIFT CARDS
A Greeley Hat Works gift does not have to begin by guessing someone else’s hat size, favorite felt, or preferred crease. A gift card leaves those choices where they belong—with the person who will ultimately wear the hat. It can become a custom piece, something ready to wear from the shop, or simply an excuse to step inside Greeley Hat Works and discover what feels right.
THE CUSTOM HAT EXPERIENCE
Sometimes the experience is the gift. A custom appointment turns the process of choosing a hat into part of the present itself, from the initial conversation and fitting to selecting material, color, shape, and finishing details. Rather than placing a finished hat beneath the tree, the gift becomes the opportunity to create one.
VIP & PRIVATE EXPERIENCES
For something less expected, Greeley Hat Works can turn shopping into an occasion. VIP Experiences and After-Hours or Private Shopping Experiences offer another way to give GHW without choosing a specific product— particularly for someone who values the story and experience behind what they own.
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G IF T GU ID E | SHO P P I NG
Custom Hat Experience
VIP/Private Experience
The Small Stuff
Ready to Wear Hats
GATHER AT GREELEY HAT WORKS
Gather at Greeley Hat Works
The experience can extend beyond one person. Weddings, corporate events, private groups, and special occasions create opportunities to bring people together around Greeley Hat Works and its distinctly Greeley version of Western hospitality.
READY TO WEAR
Not every hat requires months of planning. For someone who wants the Greeley Hat Works name without beginning a full custom build, ready-to-wear and in-stock options provide another way to put a hat under the tree.
THE SMALL STUFF
A Greeley Hat Works gift does not necessarily need a brim. Belts, ball caps, anniversary hoodies and T-shirts, stickers, hat carriers, and other smaller in-store merchandise can be styled together as one collection of stocking stuffers and easy-to-wrap gifts. NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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Fall into Protection 6 Local family owned & operated 6 Specialty roofing & exteriors 6 Commercial & residential 6 Professional & reliable 6 Insurance specialist 6 Licensed & insured
Get ahead of the rush and schedule your free roof inspection with photo report now! Let’s make sure your roof is ready before the changing weather
CALL: 970-381-4619 🌐🌐 www.mcintireroofing.com
� 6250 W 10th ST #1 Greeley, CO, 80634
Well-worn boots. Hopeful paths ahead.
New Season. New Menu. A Fresh Take on Fall at Meeker’s. There’s something special about gathering around the table this time of year. From comforting classics to fresh seasonal flavors, our new fall menu celebrates the best of the season with a distinctly Colorado-inspired touch. Make yourself comfortable, stay a while, and savor fall at Meeker’s.
970.353.1883
meekersrestaurant.com 919 7th St, Greeley
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Give Hope.
Scan to Donate. NorthRange.org/Donate Weld County’s Nonprofit Mental Health Provider For Over 50 Years.
Hometown Christmas
& DEALIS S L A SPECDAY! ALL
, s e m a g , a Sant , s k c a n s , o o z g n i t t e p ! n u f f o s & ton s, ame g , a Sant , acks n s , oo ing z t t e p n! f fu o s n & to
SHOP
SMAL SATU
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MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
NOVEMBER 28TH, 2026
Free for Free for everyone! everyone!
Greeley 12/10 Yuma 12/03 Sterling 12/01
Ask the experts on pet food & supplies!
Visit us on Facebook for more details.
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970.378.0240 · www.jt-feeds.com 3616 W 10th Street, Greeley, CO NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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Made the GREELEY WAY PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
STEP 2 | CHOOSE THE FOUNDATION
From European hare blends to beaver felt, material influences a hat’s weight, durability, water resistance, and longevity. The choice depends on how its owner plans to wear it, whether for daily ranch work, special occasions, or something in between. The right felt sets the stage for everything that follows.
STEP 3 | ADD STEAM
Heat and moisture make the felt workable, allowing hatmakers to shape the crown and brim with traditional equipment. This is Greeley Hat Works’ “Retro-Tech” approach in action: time-tested methods paired with practical technology. Steam provides flexibility, but knowing when and how to use it comes from experience. Yield: One hat. One wearer. Prep time: A conversation. Cook time: Never rushed. Equipment: Antique conformateur, tools, steam, and skilled hands.
STEP 4 | SHAPE BY HAND traditional
Greel e y Hat Work s
INGREDIENTS:
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• • • • • •
One individual head shape Premium felt Generations of hatmaking knowledge Steam and patience Skilled hands Finishing details
STEP 1 | CAPTURE THE SHAPE
Every custom hat begins with the fit. Greeley Hat Works uses an antique French conformateur to record the unique contours of a customer’s head, creating a pattern more precise than a standard circumference measurement. The pattern becomes the foundation for the hat and is kept in the shop’s archive, making it possible to reference that fit years later.
T h e Re c i p e fo r a C u s t o m G r e e l e y H a t C a l l s fo r P r e c i s i o n , P a t i e n c e , Pe r s o n a l i t y, a n d Plent y of Steam EXP E RT H E LP | LO CAL SE RVICE S
Hatmakers block, shape, check, and refine each piece, relying on practiced judgment rather than automation. Small adjustments can make a noticeable difference in the finished silhouette. As Trent Johnson, Greeley Hat Works Owner, explains, “Those hands are connected to real humans who touch, feel and see what needs to be done.”
STEP 5 | MAKE IT PERSONAL
Crown, brim, band, color, finish, and interior details all contribute to a hat’s character. Custom printing and personal touches offer another layer of individuality, but the most important choice is the overall silhouette. The goal is not simply a well-made hat, but one that feels like it belongs to its wearer.
STEP 6 | FIT, REFINE, REPEAT
A custom hat must sit comfortably, complement its owner, and feel natural to wear. Trent learned from mentor and former owner Susie Orr that a finished hat might still need another adjustment. If the shape wasn’t right, it went back to be reblocked. The lesson remains: craftsmanship takes patience, and the details matter.
STEP 7 | SERVE WITH HATITUDE®
The final ingredient is personal connection. Despite the shop’s growth during Trent’s 30 years, the wearer remains central to the process. In Trent’s words: “I don’t just build hats. I build dreams.”
YOU DON’T
have to go far
TO GET OUT Make November memorable without going far. Catch a show at the UCCC, explore independent films at the Go West Film Fest, and cheer on the UNC Bears for their final home football game. Then celebrate the season at Festival of Trees and Winterfest. There’s plenty to do close to home, so take a break without breaking the bank.
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Taste The Season. Share The Moment. Urban Seoul BBQ Refined.
NOW OPEN IN GREELEY! seasoningkbbq.com 2118 35th Ave.
|
|
970-452-5221
Westlake Shopping Center
By Seoul Hospitality Group
30 YEARS OF COLORADO ROOTS. A WORLD OF ADVENTURES AHEAD. Congratulations to Greeley Hat Works on 30 remarkable years of craftsmanship, tradition, and Colorado pride. Here's to honoring where we've been and celebrating all the adventures still ahead! -Cheri DeWitt Founder, Sol Escapes Travel Let Your Soul Escape!
solescapestravel.com 970.302.3005 Proudly serving our Greeley area community
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ROOTED IN GRATITUDE
Thankful for YOU!
As we reflect on all we have to be thankful for, we're especially grateful for our wonderful patients and the Northern Colorado community.
Before
After
Get holiday-ready and feel confident in your own skin!
$50 OFF 970-861-5454
arkmedaesthetics.com 4239 Centerplace Drive, Unit 1F Greeley, CO 80634
Any Injectable treatment of $200 or More
KRISTA PLATE, FNP-C
NORTHERN COLORADO'S HIDDEN GEM FOR BEAUTY & BALANCE
Owner, Ark Medical Aesthetics
NOMINATIONS OPEN
T H I S S E A S O N , G I V I N G S TA R T S W I T H YO U
GIVING TOGETHER
NOV. 1 DEC. 3 THROUGH
Every year, City Lifestyle sends checks to hundreds of people in need across the country through our annual Giving Campaign. But none of it is possible without you. If you know someone quietly struggling or facing something they never saw coming, we want to hear their story. Your nomination could make all the difference.
Visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org for more information.
SCAN TO NOMINATE
NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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I F T H E S E WA L L S CO U L D TA L K The Familiar Faces, Objects, and Oddities that Have Become Part of Greeley Hat Works Over the Years
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED & PHOTOS BY DIANDRA
Trent's Mom
THAT’S NOT A PINUP GIRL, THAT’S MY MOM
The woman in Greeley Hat Works’ familiar logo isn’t a pinup girl. She’s Trent Johnson’s mom. The image originated with a photograph from her days as a rodeo queen in Trinidad, Colorado. Trent reimagined it years later as both a tribute to his mother and a bit of Greeley Hat Works humor. The company had begun distinguishing its hats by starting with higher-quality hat bodies, making the image a playful companion to the message: Greeley Hat Works starts with better bodies.
Martin the Truck
MEET MARTIN
Martin may look like Greeley Hat Works’ original delivery truck, but the 1958 Ford joined the family decades later. Trent bought the naturally aged truck from friend and customers Greg and Jonde Holmes, then worked with Tammy Archibeque to recreate Greeley Hat Works logos found in archives from 1958. She painted them onto the doors, giving the truck the appearance of having belonged to the shop all along. Its name completes the story: Ben Martin was the owner of Greeley Hat Works in 1958.
The Beaver
THE BEAVER
Long before the current showroom, Trent asked a customer who worked for the Division of Wildlife to keep him in mind if he ever encountered a beaver. After all, beaver fur is central to traditional felt hatmaking. The customer eventually delivered—but the beaver was very much alive. Trent temporarily housed his unexpected guest in a basement broom closet, where its surprise appearance during an interview created a memorable introduction to beaver felt. The animal was later taxidermied and became part of Greeley Hat Works lore.
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“After 30 years, you collect more than hats. You collect stories, people, memories, and a lot of weird stuff along the way. Somehow, all of it becomes part of the history of this place.”
Local Martial Arts for All Northern Colorado’s longest running Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program with over 20 years experience. Bringing martial arts to children and adults of all ages and abilities. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Women’s Classes
| |
Muay Thai | Judo Boxing | Wrestling
ONE WEEK FREE TRIAL TheFarmBjj.com 970.978.4996
2626 8th Ave Unit B, Greeley
Your Weekend Has Better Plans. Bold flavors, handcrafted cocktails, and no reason to rush.
www.oakandmaplewaffles.com 1 6 4 0 8 t h Av e , G r e e l e y, C o l o ra d o 8 0 6 3 1
1023 39th Ave Ste. D & E, Greeley, CO
970-373-2970
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When you walk through our door,
you become our family.
Whether you are dealing with a health problem, or looking to improve your overall health, we’ve created a chiropractic clinic for you and your family!
Patricia Sorbo D.C., DiCCP
Erik Sorbo D.C.
Hormone/Functional Medicine Testing Methylene Blue B12/Vitamin D Injection NAD+ Personalized IV Therapy
970.652.3799 | www.factorivhydration.com 4239 Centerplace Dr. Unit 2B Greeley, CO 80634
V@factorIVhydration BFactor IV Hydration
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@factorivhydration
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
Dayna Hazlewood
We are grateful to you for making us feel at home in our community.
Nick Kenny CEPA®
7251 W. 20th St Ste G2, Greeley, CO 80634 970-330-8397
910 54th Ave Suite 200 Greeley, CO 80634 970-415-8125
Request Your Free Consultation
FITNESS THAT FITS YOUR LIFE.
REAL COACHING. REAL RESULTS.
Join Upward Fitness Studio today and build a fitness routine that fits your life. With over 35+ years in combined experience, our certified personal trainers are ready to help you reach your goals in a realistic and sustainable way. Whether your goal is to lose weight, get stronger, or be more functional and confident in your life, we tailor programs for every fitness level. Scan the QR code & request a free consultation to learn more. Personal Training, Small Group Fitness, Nutrition Guidance
upwardfitnessstudio.com 970.793.4693
3050 67th Ave Ste 103, Greeley, CO
Locally Owned ∙ Competitive Prices ∙ Exclusive Brands ∙ Community Focused ∙ Leading Floor Experts
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AT CARPET ONE, ESTIMATES ARE ALWAYS FREE. REQUEST YOURS TODAY. (970) 673-4220 | westpointcarpetonegreeley.com | 6001 West 10th Street NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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FAMOUS HEADS.
Humble Hands. From the World's Biggest Stages to the Farms and Streets of Greeley, Every Great Hat Has a Story Aaron Rogers
D o l l y P a r t o n' s s i s t e r, Freida Parton George
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O UR TOWN | P RO FES SI O N AL SE RVICE S
• • • • • • • • • • • •
Kevin Costner Jimmy Fallon Charlie Sheen Jeremy Renner Taylor Sheridan Cole Hauser Lady Gaga P!NK Miranda Lambert Toby Keith Lyle Lovett Chris Janson
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Red Steagall Drake White Aerosmith The Band Perry Peyton Manning Archie Manning Aaron Rodgers Von Miller Todd Helton George W. Bush George H. W. Bush Vladimir Putin Luke Grimes Wes Bentley Jefferson White Jelly Roll Rudy Giuliani Robert Earl King
Presidents, performers, professional athletes and Hollywood legends have all found their way to Greeley Hat Works. But ask Trent Johnson, Owner, about his favorite customers and you're more likely to hear about a lifelong friend than a household name. Every hat has a story. Every customer matters.
D w i g h t Yo a k u m and King Leg
Miranda Lambert
A c t o r, We s B e n t l e y , Ye l l o w s t o n e ’ s Jaime Dutton
Robert Earl King a n d Ly l e L o v e t t
Drake White
CONTINUED >
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Ly l e Lovett
Cody Johnson
R F K J r.
Randy Owen from the band Alabama
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O UR TOWN | P RO FES SI O N AL SE RVICE S
CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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O UR TOWN | P RO FES SI O N AL SE RVICE S
Sustainably Sown, Beautifully Grown – Native Grasses for Your Project.
50 Call Pawnee Buttes Seed for a Quote Today! PawneeButtesSeed.com • (970) 356-7002
TIME TO MAKE YOUR DREAM LAND A REALITY. Long-term fixed rates on land so you don’t miss out on your dream.
Construction Loans • Lot Loans • Land Loans • Home Loans
Austin Griffith Rural 1st Loan Officer NMLS 2536225 | 720.241.2302 Austin.Griffith@Rural1st.com
Scan to learn more
Loans subject to credit approval. Rural 1 st® is a tradename and Rural 1 st, the RollingHills Window icon, Rural Logic, and Closer to What Matters are exclusive trademarks of Farm Credit Mid America, NMLS 407249. Rural 1 st products are available to consumers within the territories of participating Farm Credit System Associations. Equal Housing Lender.
Real Smoke, Real BBQ Slow & Low Visit us and see why locals call it the best BBQ around. Dine-In | Takeout | Catering | Delivery We have you covered!
Serving: Denver, Estes Park, Greeley, Longmont, & Lyons.
smokindavesbbq.com | 970-503-5591 819 9th St, Greeley, Colorado 80631 Open Wednesday-Sunday at 11 AM
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C I T Y L I FEST Y L E G I V ES BAC K
GIVING TOGETHER A Community That Shows Up
Every year, City Lifestyle sends checks to hundreds of families in need across the country through our annual Giving Campaign and our nonprofit arm, Kingdom Building Foundation. But none of it would be possible without you. We can only help the people we know about, and
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S EASON A L SE T U P S | L I FE + CU LT U RE
that’s where our readers come in. If you know someone quietly struggling, whether it’s a single parent, a senior citizen, or a family facing something they never saw coming, we want to hear their story. Nominations are what make this whole campaign possible.
We provided a chair lift for a teenager paralyzed in a gymnastics accident so she could move freely through her own home again. We helped a child who lost an eye to cancer get the prosthetic because insurance wouldn’t cover it. We covered dental work for a man who needed his smile back just to walk into a job interview. We got heat turned back on for a family who had spent part of the winter without it. We helped a family keep up with bills while a husband and father fought pancreatic cancer, and we helped another family cover medical expenses after the unimaginable loss of a child. These are just a few examples of some of the hundreds of individuals that have been helped through nominations from readers like you. None of it happens without someone noticing first and speaking up. "We don't just send checks," says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle.
“We send a message: You are seen, you are loved, and you are not forgotten.” Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond the holiday season. "This is about community," Matthew says. "We believe we've been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing." Often, the person making the nomination gets just as much out of the experience as the recipient. There's something powerful about being part of the reason someone else's burden got lighter, especially when that need might have otherwise gone unnoticed. The campaign is completely confidential. No names are ever shared or publicized, and nominating someone is as simple as telling us their story. We are looking for those in our communities who fall between the cracks of getting help, and together as a community, we can meet those needs.
Nominations open November 1st and close December 3rd. To nominate someone in your community, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and find the form in our bio, or visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org.
This season, giving starts with you. Let's do it together. Nominate someone in need today.
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Cranberry Chambord Chutney 94
C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE
There always seems to be a debate of some kind or another on whether homemade cranberry sauce or canned is best for your holiday table. Whether you are in the homemade camp or the canned camp, this recipe is a must-try for everyone. It’s easy and packed with yummy goodness! And if you’re in the canned camp, you may surprise yourself that you ever thought canned was the easiest route to your table! This sauce is a great addition to your poultry or pork when fresh cranberries are in season, but frozen cranberries can certainly be used in a pinch.
WANT TO BREAK FREE FROM THE CAN? THIS HOMEMADE SAUCE WILL WOW YOUR THANKSGIVING GUESTS! ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP
Ingredients • 1-pound fresh cranberries • 2 cups sugar • 2 tart apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves • 1/8 teaspoon allspice • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon • zest of 1 lemon, cut into julienne strips • zest of 1 orange, cut into julienne strips • 1/3 cup Chambord liqueur
Cooking Instructions
FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS At Thanksgiving and every day, may your heart and home be filled with plenty of reasons to give thanks.
1. Rinse and pick over cranberries. Discard any that are green or mushy and remove stems. 2. In a 2-quart saucepan, place cranberries, sugar, and diced apples. Cover the pot and cook over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil. (No need to add liquid.) 3. Uncover and stir in spices. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Uncover and add lemon and orange zest. Cover the pot and cook for another 5 minutes or until the mixture has thickened and the berries have popped. 4. Cool for 5 minutes, then stir in the Chambord and refrigerate until serving time.
Mary Bengford, Agent 6500 29th St Ste 240, Greeley, CO 80634 teambengford@amfam.com Cell: (970) 381-7878 | (970) 363-5051 Get your quote
“It’s easy and packed with homemade, yummy goodness.” American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. & Its Operating Companies, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2016 008897-01 – Rev. 4/25 – 29932440-MOD
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NOVEMBER 2026
events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S
NOVEMBER 1ST
Dear Jack, Dear Louise The Stampede Troupe Black Box Theatre, 2015 2nd Ave., Unit G, Greeley | 7:00 PM The Stampede Troupe presents Dear Jack, Dear Louise, a heartfelt romantic comedy following a military doctor and aspiring actress whose letters spark an unexpected connection during World War II. Multiple performances are offered throughout the first week of November, with varying dates and showtimes. Tickets are $23. For showtimes and tickets, visit StampedeTroupe.com. NOVEMBER 7TH
Boys & Girls Club of Weld County's 28th Annual Calf Auction Island Grove Regional Park – 4-H Building | 5:30 PM Join Boys & Girls Clubs of Weld County for our 28th Annual Calf Auction! This longstanding community tradition brings together supporters for an evening of dinner and a lively auction featuring agricultural items— all in support of local kids and teens and the opportunities that help them build great futures. For more Information visit BGCWeld.org/CalfAuction. NOVEMBER 9 TH
Go West Film Fest Kress Cinema & Lounge and LINC Library Innovation Center, Downtown Greeley, CO | 8:00 AM The 12th annual Go West Film Festival returns to downtown Greeley for six days celebrating classic and contemporary Western cinema. The free festival features film screenings, filmmaker conversations, a popular silent film CONTINUED >
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SERVING YOUR HOA IS THE BEST PART OF OUR YEAR. From seamless operations to stronger connections, we’re grateful to manage your community. Our team lives and operates in the communities we serve. Your experience matters to us. Thank you for your trust. Mention this ad when you request a proposal for HOA management services to receive a special offer on your pricing.
970.515.5004 | www.onewaypm.com
1008 8th Street Greeley, CO 80631 | info@onewaypm.com
Celebrate Fall, Italian Style—Join Us at Pellegrini
AUTUNNO IN TAVOLA Where Harvest Meets Heritage
Autunno in Tavola at Pellegrini Cucina Italiana celebrates the fall harvest season. Savor fall-inspired dishes in our restaurant, explore artisanal goods at our Italian Market Store, sip seasonal cocktails at our Wine & Cocktail Bar, enjoy harvest-fresh catering, and visit our booth at the Greeley Farmer’s Market. Where Italian tradition meets autumn’s bounty—every bite tells a story.
970-515-5332 pellegrinicucina.com
desk.pellegrinirestaurant@gmail.com 2400 17th St. Greeley, CO 80634
Moffat Glass quickly restores clarity and beauty to your home.
For over 100 years, Moffat Glass has served the Greeley area for all its glass needs: frameless shower doors/sliders, glass handrails, replacement window glass, replacement windows, screens repaired/replaced, and more. 970-352-6625
moffatglass.com
3511 W Service Road Evans, CO NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / G R E E L E Y
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events
CONTINUED experience, and the audience-judged Shorts Showcase. Events take place at Kress Cinema & Lounge and the LINC Library Innovation Center. For more information, visit GoWestFilmFest.org. NOVEMBER 13TH
Arise to Glory The Atlas Theater, 709 16th St., Greeley | 6:00 PM Arise! hosts its first Arise to Glory black-tie gala, an evening of elegance, inspiration, and celebration honoring women whose lives are rising to new heights. Guests will gather for a night centered on hope, connection, and transformation while supporting Arise!’s work empowering women through mentorship, education, support, and Soul Care. For tickets, visit Zeffy.com. NOVEMBER 26TH
NCMC Turkey Trot Banner North Colorado Medical Center, 1801 16th St., Greeley, CO | 9:00 AM The 29th Annual NCMC Turkey Trot returns Thanksgiving morning with a 5K race and 2K Gobbler Trek for participants of all ages and abilities. Hosted by the CardioVascular Institute of North Colorado, the event supports cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation programs, helping provide financial assistance for patients who may otherwise be unable to participate in rehabilitation services. For information and registration visit RunSignUp.com. NOVEMBER 27TH
Skate Your Turkey Off Greeley Ice Haus, 900 8th Ave, Greeley, CO | 12:00 PM Skate off those extra pounds from Thanksgiving. We’ve extended out public skate session so you can spend more time with friends and family. Admission: $10 (includes skate rental). More information can be found at GreeleyCO.gov.
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Happy Thanksgiving! We are grateful for our home families, our work family, and the community of Greeley.
marrfamilydentistry.com | (970) 356-2605 1813 61st Ave. Greeley, CO 80634