Philip Ridder

Hamilton, NJ
Ridder's Custom Woodwork, LLC.

As the son of a cabinet maker, Philip Ridder began working with wood when he was 12 years old. And though he’s been woodworking most of his life, after watching his parents struggle as immigrant entrepreneurs, he grew up thinking the path to success was through a steady 9 to 5 job.

After becoming a civil engineer and one too many layoffs, Ridder began to reconsider his options. Surprisingly, giving one of his kidneys to his brother finally placed him on the path of entrepreneurship.

Ridder shares that the experience with his brother taught him a great deal about himself. He thought if he could go through everything that donating a kidney entailed, he could do anything, including becoming an entrepreneur.

Philip's belief in the Latin creed, “audentes fortuna Iuvat” (fortune favors the bold), which he engraved on a wooden sign that hangs above his workshop, is what guides him in his entrepreneurial endeavors. He explains that entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart and that despite his occasional worry or sleepless nights, he knows he won’t let anything hinder his success.

When asked how UCEDC’s lending team helped him, Philip shared that he opened his shop in Hamilton at the beginning of the pandemic. At the time, he didn't realize it would be as challenging as it was. He says that money was quickly depleting, and “UCEDC stepped in, in a very big way, and helped me get through Covid.”

Ridder’s workspace is vast, and he works on all types of projects, including custom cabinets, furniture, built-ins, awards, memorials, urns, gifts, and home accessories. He even made a large-scale candelabra that he crafted for Saint Peter’s Church in Morristown, which he is particularly proud of.

Through every carefully carved piece and meticulously crafted joint, Philip Ridder's talent and creativity shine. His workshop is a hub of innovation and passion. With support from UCEDC, he's weathered tough times and emerged stronger. Ridder's creations reflect his skill and commitment to excellence, and his story inspires us to chase our dreams with courage and audacity.

Philip was highlighed in UCEDC's 2023 Annual Highlights, to read more inspiring stories like this and see how UCEDC is making an impact, click here!