Andrew and Tammy Preston founded Upland Printing Company. Before catching the entrepreneurial spirit, Tammy, a Texan and Registered Nurse, and Andrew, a Hoosier and FAA Airframe & Powerplant certified mechanic, worked in their respective professions in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. Their embroidery side project blossomed into a full-fledged business, leading to the establishment of North Texas Ink and Custom Embroidery, LLC in 2013. Seeking a smaller community to raise their family, Andrew persuaded Tammy to relocate to Upland, Indiana in 2015, where they opened their new venture, Upland Print and Stitch.
Andrew and Tammy, with assistance from Andrew's parents, transformed a former home-office into a one-bedroom apartment with a compact print studio. In the autumn of 2015, while Andrew was setting up the business sign, Eric Castiglia, a student from Taylor University, passed by and inquired about his activity. Andrew explained he was opening a print shop. Eric expressed his interest in working there, to which Andrew responded that he was unable to offer payment. Eric, undeterred by the lack of pay and eager for the experience as a graphic design student, insisted on helping. He later introduced Peter Cho, another graphic design student from Taylor University. Their introductions led to connections with the Taylor University community, which helped the business flourish. Their support in those early days is something we deeply appreciate.
As their business expanded, so did Andrew and Tammy's family. The confines of a print shop in a home became too snug, prompting the search for a larger printing space. Upland Print and Stitch relocated to the former flower shop. In under two years, it moved again, this time to its present location in the building once known as the "pharmacy" or "movie store," depending on one's Upland recollections. The spacious premises facilitated the acquisition of an MHM 10-color 12-station automatic screen-printing press, two ZSK dual head embroidery machines, and a laser cutter/engraver.
As 2023 came to an end, we initiated the rebranding of Upland Printing Company. The rebrand aimed to streamline communication, concentrate on our key strengths, and elevate our performance.
Aliases: Dad, Andy, Drew, Bruh
Andrew, a fourth-generation resident of Upland, graduated from Marion High School and then dedicated four years to the United States Marine Corps as a structures mechanic for UH-1N Huey and AH-1W Cobra helicopters with HMLA-367. Following an honorable discharge, he earned his FAA A&P certificate and spent 17 years in the corporate aviation sector in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, focusing on quality assurance management and regulatory compliance.
Post-marriage to Tammy in 2005 and while anticipating their first child in 2007, Tammy's purchase of a sewing and embroidery machine piqued Andrew's interest. He mastered embroidery digitizing and delved into graphic design, which sparked a new career direction.
In the scant leisure time he finds, Andrew cherishes moments with Tammy and their children: Kimberlee, Abby, and Andy. Beyond family life, he dedicates time to supporting veterans through the Marine Corps League Tripoli Detachment in Marion and indulges in his love for cars as a member of the 9th Street Gang Car Club.
Andrew attributes his success in running a printing business to Tammy's enduring patience, his varied experiences, innate curiosity, and a strong work ethic, which together fuel his creativity, problem-solving skills, and adaptability.
Aliases: Mom, Momma, Boss Lady
Originally from Texas, Tammy graduated from L.D. Bell High School before attending Tarleton State University. She received an Associate of Arts degree from Tarrant County Community College and later, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington.
After earning her Oncology Certified Nurse credential, Tammy worked in hospice care and a cancer clinic. Post marriage to Andrew in 2005 and the birth of their children, Kim and Abby, Andrew convinced her to move to Indiana.
Tammy played a crucial role in managing the administrative tasks for a new business in Indiana, all while continuing her nursing career, carrying their son Andy, and working part-time during the business's early years.
During the 2020 COVID pandemic, she shifted to full-time work in the business, handling sales, administration, operating embroidery machines, and aiding in production.
As the family's matriarch, Tammy dedicates her time outside of work to chauffeuring the kids, maintaining household order, and occasionally indulging in documentaries or series on television networks.
Aliases: Mom, Never Call Her "Katy"
Kate has been in the print industry for over a decade. An Eastbrook High School alumna, she pursued music at Ball State University, then switched to the Art Institute of Chicago. With a Bachelor's in Animation and Multimedia Arts, she embarked on a career as a Graphic Designer in a print shop, a role she adores. In 2023, she completed a second degree in Business Management, aiming to manage her own shop someday.
Married to her best friend, Chris, in 2018, they share a blended family with three children: Dieghan, Luna, and River, residing in Marion.
Outside of work, Kate is passionate about gaming and reenactment. She dedicates her time to Tabletop Roleplaying Games, Live Action Role Playing Games, and Historical and Fantasy Reenactment. A fantasy and book enthusiast, she delights in crafting books and anything paper.
Aliases: Kim, Kimbo, Sis, Jimmy
Kimberlee Preston, a junior at Eastbrook High School, is the eldest child of Andrew and Tammy. She started working part-time at the shop in 2023, where she handles most of the 3D printing and assists with various tasks.
After graduation, Kim plans to pursue CAD drafting at Ivy Tech, although her plans beyond that are not yet decided.
An active participant in the Eastbrook French Club, Theater Club, and National Honor Society, Kim also plays on the school's golf team.
Outside of school and work, she enjoys crafting 3D models, resting, and playing with her cats. Known for her quick wit, she possesses an impressive repertoire of dad jokes.