Meet Justin and DJ of Urban Handmade - Heart of the Business
An interview with Justin & DJ Galvin, Urban Handmade
Cover photo by Karl Yost Photography.
How did your story begin? What inspired you to open your doors and take the leap into entrepreneurship?
Urban Handmade was founded by Connie Galvin, Liz Stutzman, and DJ Galvin. Before opening the shop, we organized our own maker and artist events in downtown Dayton. We always thought Yellow Springs would be the perfect place for a handmade retail space.
Justin, DJ’s husband, grew up in Yellow Springs and completely agreed. In 2009, we opened Urban Handmade, and DJ and Justin also launched Clay + Stan, an advertising and design studio. We have been here ever since, making and sharing handmade goods with the community.
“We currently feature over 85 exciting and independent artists.“
What do you love most about owning and running a business in Yellow Springs?
The freedom to be as creative as we want and to build community with like-minded people, both in Yellow Springs and with visitors from every corner of the state.
What products of yours do people love most, and what makes them special to you?
What people love most about our store are the unique shirts and hoodies, all of which we create, design, and screen print right in the shop.
What is the biggest challenge your business is facing right now, and how are you working through it?
There are always challenges when running your own business. Every day brings something new that requires problem-solving and adaptability. Right now, our focus is on increasing foot traffic to drive sales. We are doing this by consistently creating new apparel and bringing in exciting new artists to share their talents with our customers. We work hard to ensure that every visit feels like a new experience. We are also actively involved with the Chamber of Commerce by serving on the board and assisting with marketing efforts to increase traffic to town.
When you’re not at your business, where is your favorite place to shop, eat, or unwind in Yellow Springs?
We love grabbing pizza from Ha Ha’s, walking in Glen Helen, and visiting our daughter at Dino’s Cappuccinos, where she makes great coffee.
What are the top three things you love most about being a small business owner?
The freedom of being your own boss, building connections with the downtown business community, and having the ability to say no when an opportunity does not align with our mission, values, or sense of fun.
What is the mission or heart behind your business — the “why” that keeps you going?
“Power to the Artists!” Our mission has always been to create a space for artists to share their work, provide additional income opportunities, and show customers and visitors that art of all kinds is an essential part of the human experience that enriches life. We currently feature over 85 exciting and independent artists.
What’s something else that people might not know about you or your business that you wish they did?
We have a ton of vinyl records in the shop because we have great taste in music, but they are not for sale. Sorry! 😉
In addition to running this small business, what other hats do you wear?
We also own and operate an advertising agency called Clay + Stan, serving a diverse range of retail, hospitality, and corporate clients.
Can you share a favorite memory or moment with a customer or client that has stayed with you?
There are too many to name. Yellow Springs attracts such a diverse group of visitors who are eager to talk, excited about their experiences around town, and genuinely appreciative of what we do and provide.
How many people does your business employ?
2
How long have you been in business?
16 years. Since 2009.
Urban Handmade was founded in 2009. Inspired by a shared love for handmade goods and community, Justin & DJ Galvin chose Yellow Springs as the perfect home for their shop. Since opening their doors 16 years ago, Urban Handmade has become a creative hub where art, apparel, and local connection come together.
Known for their original shirts and hoodies that are designed and screen printed in-house, Urban Handmade celebrates creativity and craftsmanship. Their mission, “Power to the Artists,” drives their commitment to supporting more than 85 independent artists while creating a welcoming space that inspires visitors and locals alike.
Visit: shopurbanhandmade.com
Heart of the Business cover photo by Karl Yost Photography.
Heart of the Business is presented by the Yellow Springs Chamber of Commerce, celebrating the vibrant stories and unique contributions of local member businesses throughout the village.
Yellow Springs Wins Ohio Magazine’s Best Hometowns 2025-26
A vibrant celebration of community, creativity, and connection is on full display as Yellow Springs takes center stage in a beautifully curated, limited-edition commemorative magazine release that captures the heart of the village from cover to cover.