Concord natives and brothers Nathan and Thomas Propst Jr. say their love of fishing, hunting and the outdoorsmen lifestyle inspired them to design a new apparel line featuring their blue marlin logo.
The brothers officially launched the line in December with J. Talbert Ltd of Concord serving as the retailer for the clothing, hats and visors. J. Talbert Ltd. is located in downtown Concord at 11 Union St., South, Suite 101. The brothers also launched their website, www.atlantic-drift.com, on Dec. 16 where the items can also be purchased.
Atlantic Drift was founded about two years ago by the brothers who say they wanted to create a line of high-end clothing for the avid outdoorsmen. The idea was to provide apparel that is as rich and classic as the boat building history of North Carolina, according to the Propsts.
“Nathan and I were just sitting around talking one day and we saw a need for quality polo shirts and T-shirts and hats and visors with a unique logo,” Thomas Propst said. “Out of the blue, we decided to design and build a business plan and try it out.”
The brothers – both Concord High School graduates - grew up with a common love of being on the water and in the great outdoors. They said they wanted to bring that lifestyle to a high quality clothing line that has a traditional, classic appeal, coupled with an elegant design.
“There’re always polo shirts with logos on the chest but not with what I enjoy,” Nathan Propst said. “We grew up fishing. The blue marlin has the biggest fan base of all of the big school fish.”
Nathan designed the logo, which was later perfected by an artist. The brothers worked together testing fabrics until they found a blend of cotton and Lycra they liked.
Nathan Propst, 24, graduated from Concord High in 2005 and is now working on his associate’s degree at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. He works full-time at Ben Mynatt GMC.
Thomas Propst, Jr., 32, graduated from Concord High in 1998 and earned a degree in marketing and business administration from the University of Richmond in 2002. He is a commercial real estate agent with First Carolina Properties. He and his wife Katie have twins, Heidi and Ben, who will turn one in January.
Contact reporter Karen Cimino Wilson: 704-789-9141.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement