Willoughby South Graduates Show Hometown Pride with Local T-shirt Business

David Gardner (left) and Derek Stillman (right) are the founders of Derry & Dave Tees.

Two Willoughby South High graduates are using their newly-acquired business knowledge to delve into the local t-shirt business.

David Gardner, 18, and Derek “Derry” Stillman, 19, always enjoyed their hometown of Willoughby but were never able to show off their hometown pride after graduating from South High in 2011.

“We’re both into clothes and fashion,” Stillman said. “We definitely saw a target market in the younger crowd, and we wanted to apply what we are learning in school.”

The two entrepreneurs formed Derry & Dave Tees to gain practical experience with business concepts such as target market, pricing, inventory and others.

Stillman is currently studying business and Chinese at the University of Pittsburgh ,and Gardner attends Lakeland Community College for business and hopes to minor in fashion.

“I like using both the fashion and business aspect,” Gardner said. “It’s a great experience to have your own line when you’re 18.”

The limited edition “Downtown Willobeer” t-shirt costs $15.

Their first shirt which reads “Downtown Willobeer” is a St. Patrick’s Day shirt that not only promotes the bar scene in Downtown Willoughby for the Irish holiday but also pays homage to Stillman’s years of Irish dancing.

Gardner and Stillman also have several designs planned that aren’t alcohol related. Other products on the line include an “I Heart Willoughby” shirt, American Apparel Willoughby shirts and Irish-themed shirts.

“We also want to make shirts that promote Willoughby as the Courtesy City as well,” Stillman said.

The duo will set up a booth at summer events such as the DTW Red, White and BBQ Rib Burn Off on Saturday, May 19 and possibly at the Willoughby Outdoor Market between May and October.

Interested parties can purchase shirts from Derry & Dave Tees by e-mailing derrydavetees@gmail.com or visiting their Facebook.

Update: T-shirts can be purchased at the Willoughby Outdoor Market, 8 a.m.- Noon or at the Derry & Dave website here: http://www.derrydavetees.bigcartel.com/