It’s been a big year for Chris Miller Guitars! One that started as a relocation from Portland to Sonoma, California; a year that (almost!) saw my first son being born; and a tragic one in that my workshop was destroyed in the Nuns Fire. So you can say we’ve had the worst of times, and the best of times. I cannot begin to describe the anguish of losing my shop, years of tonewood collecting, and especially our family home where I was raised. The rebuilding process will be slow and may be painful; we are still remembering things that were lost in the fire, and my parents have moved into a small rental nearby our house. It would be easy to despair over what has happened…And yet, I feel so fortunate! What an opportunity this was, being able to see an entire community forged together, helping one another and caring for each other. I feel so lucky, in having such a strong, supportive spouse, a healthy son, my parents safe and sound; not to mention my fabulous customers and community. A friend set up a GoFundMe that was critical in providing a safety net for lost wages, and will form the basis for the new shop-when it’s time. Thanks to you all— we are safe and sound, in body and mind. Thank You.
Elijah Miller was born January 2, a healthy 8lb 12oz baby boy!
While being evacuated from the fires in October, I picked up some work, helping to build an enormous redwood slab table. It was 26 12′ long, 3′ wide and 2″ thick slabs joined into a spiral. Best of all, it was set on very not-level ground next to Bolinas Lagoon! A most beautiful worksite.
In case you’re wondering about my work life: I am currently a Service Advisor for a hot rod shop in Santa Rosa. This way I get to indulge in all things involving horsepower and chrome. It provides some much needed stability for our family at the moment. I continue to perform instrument setup and repair from my home workbench, so feel free to get in touch for a chat or to schedule a set-up, fret dress, etc. I’d love to hear from you!
Stay tuned for more lutherie-related developments!