Pete & Laurie, Co-Founders of Connext Post & Beam

It all started with a simple idea. Laurie and her father, Pete, had been working together for decades, always finding ways to collaborate on creative projects, whether websites or PR. But it was their shared love for construction and building that led to something much bigger—Connext.

Pete, a builder with 35 years of experience, had been searching for a better way to connect timber. He had built countless barns using traditional stick framing and always felt there was room for improvement. What if there was a fastener that offered the beauty of mortise and tenon but with the practicality and ease of modern hardware?

Pete and Laurie set out to create just that—a sleek, strong, and easy-to-use system that builders would appreciate and homeowners would love.

In the early days, Pete built many barns in Connecticut, showcasing his new connectors. But creating custom kits for every project was overwhelming, and Pete began to question the way forward. That’s when Laurie convinced Pete to try selling the connectors online. They gave themselves three months to see if it could work.

What happened next felt like divine providence. Orders started trickling in. Slowly at first, but steadily enough that they knew they were onto something special. It was the right idea at the right time. Little by little, the Connext system found its way into the hands of builders across the country.

Fast forward 12 years, and Connext is now sold all over the U.S. and Canada. Architects, engineers, and homeowners alike are requesting these connectors for their projects. The system has grown in popularity, not just because it simplifies the building process, but because it adds a beautiful, modern touch to post and beam construction. Each connector complements the timber, adding strength and elegance without overpowering the natural beauty of the wood.

Today, Laurie continues to carry on her father’s legacy, working to bring Connext to more builders and homeowners. What started as a shared passion between father and daughter has now become a thriving business that helps builders create strong, visually stunning structures with ease.

Connext isn't just a product—it’s the result of years of dedication, collaboration, and a belief that there was a better way to build.