Beards of distinction.

Everybody needs a good winter project, right? And for most of the creative folks I know, that winter project - among many side gigs - is crafting a healthy cold-weather beard. A few weeks ago, I put out the call to some friends to send updates of their winter beard progress, and I'd like to report back with the findings. Without any further ado:

You know what, Mikey Burton? If you didn't look so much like a mustachioed Morrissey in this picture, I'd take points off of your score for not only failing to follow directions, but also shaving what had been a rather impressive beard. But it's all good, Mikey, because I know you can't keep a good beard down.

Here's that Young Jerk Dan Cassaro kicking things off, Team Zissou style. Well grown, Dan.

Two things you should know about my man Shawn Colley: One, he's always going to come correct on the fashion front. Two, the man clearly knows how to grow a beard.

Here's hard-working local hero Jamal Collins absolutely killing it with his winter beard.

I've always been impressed with everything Kris Henry's been doing from his chilly New Hampshire homestead. Design. Bikes. And now beards.

I like to practice what I preach, so what you see above is the very latest update from my winter beard project. It's the fullest it's ever been, so I'm proud of where it's at. No stopping, though. Who knows, I may invest in some of this handy beard conditioner for the rest of the journey.

I like your style, Kyle Kastranec. That's a hopeful gaze if I've ever seen one. And who wouldn't be optimistic with a beard like that, right?

Here's my talented colleage Stephanie Landes giving it her all and showing some real support for facial hair.

Why so serious, Nicole Melville? Melville, another super talented colleague of mine, should really rock this bandana everywhere. Especially client meetings. I'll bring this up in our next conversation.

You knew the worldly wise and mega-talented Stewart Scott-Curran was going to deliver when it came to his winter beard. Was there even any doubt? No, there wasn't.

Another local hero, Jayson Shenk, representing for northeast Ohio. We know how to beard in these parts, trust me.

A musical entry! Columbus' own The Tin Hearts: Brothers-in-tune and brothers-in-beard. Impressive.

Saving the first submission for last, here's Kyle Van Horn, printer extraordinaire and, clearly, beard-grower extraordinaire. Wonderful work, Kyle.

Clearly, judging by the above, some creative folks are doing some real beard crafting this winter. What about you? Are you keeping your chin warm? If you are, let's see it. Show us what you've got in the comments!

Comments

[Bryan]

Where are Draplin and Glass, everyone's beardo heros!? Or are these all Lake Erie Beards?

[Joseph]

They didn't submit! No geographical restrictions, just beard pride. What about you, BB?