MARK SMITH II

Where it all began

The journey started when I was 8 years old and I heard my first deer hunting story on a Sunday morning in Bible study. I didn't know anything about the outdoors whatsoever until that very moment. Listening to my teacher share his story about the experience of harvesting a big buck, how it humbled him in such a spiritual way, the experience of having that kind of success on such a magnificent and majestic animal created by our Heavenly Father—his story just hooked me, it fascinated me, to watch someone express that kind of excitement over that kind of experience. I didn't know it at the time, but now when I look back on that memory, that was the time God intervened and instilled that desire in me to go find out what the outdoors was all about. There is no other explanation for it other than knowing that it's a perfect example of Gods timing for things to happen in a persons life. My mother was the one who bought me my first deer hunting VHS tapes and my first youth bow. She was the one who took the initiative to hook me up with my uncles in the family that were hunters. They were the ones that taught me and showed me the ways when it came to deer hunting. From then on, I have learned so much through hunting. Not just understanding the different ways of the focused interests whether I was hunting or fishing, but understanding the relationship and having that respect for the outdoors. The outdoors has become such a high-valued, passionate part of my life that if I didn't have that extension, something would be missing—I would not be complete. I thank God for giving me such a deep-seeded love and passion for the outdoors. It is absolutely one of the greatest God-given privileges in my life!

Simply Traditions Mission

Simply Tradition was born from this passion—to share quality hunting apparel and outdoor gear with fellow enthusiasts who understand that the outdoors is more than a hobby. It's a calling, it's tradition, and it's way of life that connects us all to something greater.