Creep Skateshop: How Two Teens Built a Skate Scene in Montana

The world of skateboarding is constantly evolving, with new faces and ideas emerging all the time. While it’s easy to get caught up in the nostalgia of legendary skaters and iconic brands, sometimes it’s the fresh perspectives of the younger generation that truly ignite the scene. That’s exactly what happened in Helena, Montana, where two teenagers, Levi Metz and Jake Orgeron, decided to take matters into their own hands and open their own skate shop, Creep Skateshop.

Levi Metz and Jake Orgeron, founders of Creep Skateshop, posing in their store

At 18 and 16, Levi and Jake defied expectations, going against the grain to create a space for skateboarding in their community. With limited resources and a DIY attitude, they transformed a rented building into a thriving hub for skaters. Their story is a testament to the passion, determination, and ingenuity of young entrepreneurs in the skateboarding world.

Table of Contents

From Car Ride to Skate Shop Reality

The idea for Creep Skateshop sparked during a casual car ride. Jake, who had been dreaming of opening a skate shop, casually mentioned his ambition to Levi, who immediately jumped on board. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision that quickly turned into a concrete plan. They were determined to bring their vision to life, despite the challenges and skepticism that often surround young entrepreneurs.

They started with a mere $6,000, scraped together from their previous jobs. This was a far cry from the $50,000 that a local, more established skate shop had started with. Yet, they made it work, covering rent, painting, and initial stock. This resourcefulness would become a defining trait of Creep Skateshop.

Busting the “Lazy Gen Z” Myth

Jake and Levi faced criticism, with some suggesting their generation was too lazy to accomplish such a feat. However, they were quick to push back on these stereotypes. Their commitment and hard work served as a clear rebuttal to these generalizations, proving that Gen Z is capable of innovative and determined action. They were eager to showcase their cool ideas and carve their own path.

The hard work was certainly needed. They transformed the 3,000 square foot peach-colored building using just a few cans of paint, rationing every last drop. The same resourcefulness extended to their personal lives, with dollar cheeseburgers becoming a daily staple.

Building a Community in Montana

Before Creep Skateshop opened, the skateboarding scene in Montana wasn’t well-known outside the state. There was a misconception that the region was all horses and no skateboards. Jake and Levi were determined to shatter this stereotype and cultivate a thriving skate scene in their hometown. They recognized the passion for skateboarding that existed, and aimed to provide a space for it to flourish.

Despite their inexperience, they learned quickly, talking to former skate shop owners to learn from their mistakes. The crucial tip they learned was to sell clothes for the cold Montana winter, a necessity that many had overlooked. This willingness to learn and adapt helped them succeed.

The interior of Creep Skateshop, with skateboards on display

Overcoming Obstacles and Gaining Respect

The shop’s opening wasn’t without its challenges. From having to convince their parents to having animal control called on them for taking care of a stray cat in the shop. They also faced skepticism due to their young age and unconventional approach. One example of this was when a small business teacher from Jake’s high school failed to respond to his email about opening the shop, then later contacted him expressing disbelief.

Despite these challenges, Jake and Levi focused on their goals. They didn’t let the negative responses discourage them and continued to push forward. Their dedication paid off, with the shop becoming successful within a short time. By Christmas, the shop was full of customers, showing that their dedication was resonating with the local community.

Balancing School, Business and Life

Jake, still in high school at the time, had to juggle online classes with running the skate shop. He managed to complete a whole semester’s worth of school in just a few hours, showcasing his ability to prioritize and manage his time efficiently. Levi, who had recently graduated, was just grateful to have found something that he felt passionate about. For both of them, Creep Skateshop was more than just a business; it was a way to make an impact on the community and create something meaningful.

Another view of the Creep Skateshop interior, showing the variety of skate products

The Skate Shop’s Unique Identity

Creep Skateshop has a distinct identity. They don’t feel the pressure to conform to the status quo. They don’t want to sell out like so many large brands. For example, the shop’s window doesn’t have a traditional sign. Instead, it has graffiti, adding to its unique and edgy charm. Their focus on supporting smaller skaters and sharing obscure videos also sets them apart from other skate shops. This gives their shop a more personal, community-driven feel.

Jake and Levi are committed to staying true to themselves and their vision. While they acknowledge the importance of skate history, they are equally interested in what’s happening now. This makes their shop a bridge between different generations of skaters and fosters a welcoming space for new ideas. They aim to showcase the talent that exists, even if it’s not mainstream.

Looking Ahead

Despite the difficulties, they’ve found success. They’re committed to long-term growth and impact in their local scene. While they aren’t interested in becoming a Supreme or RipNDip style brand, they want to expand their product line, slowly transitioning to selling their own clothing. They also want to show other kids in their area that they don’t need to be stuck in their small town, giving them the courage to chase their goals.

A close-up shot of skateboards and other items at Creep Skateshop

Despite their success, they haven’t become arrogant. They acknowledge that their business can close at any time, but they are still proud of what they accomplished. They are eager to keep learning and growing, creating a lasting impact on the skateboarding community in Helena and beyond.

The story of Creep Skateshop is a great example of the entrepreneurial spirit of young people. They have shown their community that with passion, hard work, and determination, anything is possible. They’ve also inspired other people in Montana that their small town doesn’t need to be a dead end. Through their commitment to the local skate scene and unique vision, Jake and Levi are creating something truly special.

Jake Orgeron posing inside of Creep Skateshop