You’ve most likely seen them set up at the Chattanooga Market on Sundays, tables covered with bright pastel t-shirts and red, blue and beige koozies.

The Moccasin Bend Company was founded in March 2016 by Joshua Carlile of Chattanooga and alumnus of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s College of Business. He and Vice President of Operations Tyler Wright, who were fraternity brothers at UTC, head the start-up’s operations. Their vision is to create and establish the premier brand for fine Southern apparel in Chattanooga, while giving back to the city and community they love so much.

The Moccasin Bend Company name  was inspired by the view of Moccasin Bend from Lookout Mountain, a very inspirational place for Joshua, where he spends time clearing his mind after long days. It’s a magnificent view and iconic spot for many Chattanoogans, and there’s an abundance of historical significance to the landmark. It seemed like the perfect name for the start-up.

Its current product line includes short- and long-sleeved t-shirts in a variety of bright pastels, white and ivory colors, and patriotic koozies. This is only the beginning, though; the product line expands each week, and Joshua plans for more product diversity as the company continues to grow. Potential additions to the Moccasin Bend Company line include performance fishing shirts and golf polos in the near future.

Moccasin Bend Company is about more than creating and selling a fabulous product. Joshua says the company stresses local prosperity and strives to give back to the Chattanooga community as much and as often as possible. They have a standard to donate 10% of each month’s profits to a rotating local non-profit organization that aims to make Chattanooga a better place. This is just one of the ways they support the local community. Earlier this spring, the company sponsored a local boy who suffers from autism, to help alleviate some of the financial pressure from his family. Any non-profit organization that’s interested in partnering with Moccasin Bend Company is invited to submit their contact information online; they’re always accepting submissions!

In addition to donating to non-profits, the company just received approval for a scholarship fund–appropriately called the Moccasin Bend Company Foundation–for the College of Business at UTC. As alumni, Joshua and Tyler thought this was a perfect opportunity to give back to the program that taught them so much. “It’s really cool to be able to give back so soon,” Joshua said.

While they aren’t selling in stores yet, you’ll find Moccasin Bend Company at the Chattanooga Market every Sunday with their collection of shirts, and they’re always happy to talk with new visitors.

And now, something special for y’all: when you stop by the Moccasin Bend Company tent at the Chattanooga Market, mention this post and get a free koozie with your purchase, while supplies last!

In the year I’ve lived here, I’ve truly never met anyone else who loves the Chattanooga community more than Joshua, Tyler and their team. Their desire to contribute to local prosperity and make Chattanooga an even better place is evident in everything they do.

Want to learn more about Moccasin Bend Co. and its mission? Tune in to News Channel 9’s This n’ That segment August 10 at 7:30am and 8:30am to hear stories and updates straight from the guys! Stay up to date on Moccasin Bend Co. by following them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and be sure to check out their website, too.