In a region built on growth, grit, and reinvention, some businesses do more than serve a market; they help define the soul of the community itself. Across the East Valley and throughout Arizona, First Impression Ironworks is one of those businesses. Rooted in American-made craftsmanship and powered by people who care deeply about their neighbors, the company stands as a living example of what it means to love local.
For the February Love Local issue, where community connection takes center stage, First Impression Ironworks offers a powerful story of artistry, entrepreneurship, and heart. From custom iron doors that become the focal point of homes across Arizona to outreach efforts that strengthen neighborhoods, their work reaches far beyond steel and welds. It is about building trust, pride, and lasting relationships close to home.
Crafted in Arizona, Built to Last
Step inside one of First Impression Ironworks’ East Valley facilities or showrooms, and you will find more than machinery and materials. You will find designers sketching curves and scrolls with intention, fabricators shaping raw American-made steel into functional art, and teams working in rhythm to ensure every piece reflects uncompromising quality.
As America’s number one designer, manufacturer, and installer of custom iron doors and gates, First Impression Ironworks is vertically integrated, meaning every step from engineering and fabrication to powder coating and installation happens locally. This hands-on approach allows for precision, speed, and a level of customization few companies can match.
“We live by First Class Quality, First Class Value, First Class Care,” says CEO Mark Baraghimian, who brings more than 25 years of leadership experience to the company. “We care deeply about the company, our customers, each other, and the community we serve.”
With showrooms located throughout the Valley, including Mesa Marketplace, Gilbert, and Scottsdale, First Impression Ironworks remains accessible to the Arizona communities it serves. Each location reflects the company’s commitment to local homeowners while reinforcing its presence as a trusted, homegrown brand.
The Art Behind the Iron
At First Impression Ironworks, craftsmanship is not a buzzword; it is a daily practice. Many projects move from concept to completion in as little as two to six weeks, yet no detail is rushed. Every curve, weld, and finish is intentional, designed to withstand Arizona’s extreme climate while remaining visually striking for decades.
“What most people don’t see is the passion and craftsmanship happening behind the scenes every day,” says Shannon Peterson, Director of Customer Care. “Our team treats their work like an art form. Each piece is unique.”
From marketing and design to engineering, fabrication, powder coat, logistics, installation, and customer care, each project is truly a team effort. More than 150 employees, along with trusted contractor teams, contribute to bringing a single custom vision to life.
Peterson credits the company’s customer-first mindset for setting First Impression Ironworks apart. “A customer may not remember every word we say, but they will always remember how we made them feel,” she says. “Our goal is always a seamless, stress-free experience where customers feel confident and informed every step of the way.”
The result is ironwork that feels personal, statement pieces that reflect the homeowner’s style while showcasing the artistry of local makers.
A Culture Forged in Respect
Behind the craftsmanship is a culture intentionally built on respect, accountability, and collaboration. For Vice President of Operations Strat Kalamaris, that culture starts with people feeling valued and heard.
“The culture at First Impression Ironworks is inclusive, collaborative, and unpretentious,” Kalamaris says. “We value open communication and a unified team approach where people feel confident their ideas matter.”
Having worked his way up through manufacturing roles over two decades, Kalamaris understands the importance of seeing the business from the ground up. Today, his focus is on safety, operational rhythm, and supporting teams so they can do their best work.
“When our rhythm is strong, efficiency rises and team morale stays high,” he explains. “That sense of ownership and pride is what truly defines First Impression Ironworks.”
Baraghimian echoes that sentiment, noting that clearly defined roles, recognition, and accountability create an environment of mutual admiration. “Every part of our organization touches every project,” he says. “That shared responsibility is something we are incredibly proud of.”
Loving Local Through Action
First Impression Ironworks’ impact does not stop at the jobsite. As a major employer in the East Valley and across Arizona, the company supports hundreds of local families through long-term manufacturing, design, and installation jobs. By partnering with Arizona-based vendors whenever possible, the company keeps its operations rooted firmly in the communities it serves.
Beyond economics, the company is deeply committed to service. Team-led outreach initiatives support organizations like Midwest Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, the American Red Cross, U.S. Vets Phoenix, Backpacks 4 Kids AZ, and local environmental efforts such as Natural Restorations’ Earth Day Clean-Up.
“Our entire team participates in community outreach,” says Baraghimian. “We donate time, products, and funds to local projects because giving back is part of who we are.”
Peterson adds that these efforts strengthen the company internally as well. “Working with our community provides great team-building opportunities and strengthens the bonds we already have,” she says.
For Kalamaris, community involvement reflects the company’s belief in being present and intentional. “The best experiences come when we slow down and truly engage, with our work and with each other,” he notes.
More Than a Business, A Local Legacy
In homes throughout the East Valley and across Arizona, First Impression Ironworks’ creations stand as daily reminders of what happens when artistry meets care. A front door becomes a welcome. A gate becomes a statement. A railing becomes a signature detail, all crafted by local professionals who take pride in building something lasting for their neighbors.
Perhaps that is what makes First Impression Ironworks such a natural fit for the Love Local issue. Their story is not about mass production or fleeting trends. It is about people who show up early, listen closely, and pour heart into everything they build.
“Asking questions and truly listening is the foundation of meaningful relationships,” Baraghimian reflects. That mindset, rooted in respect, presence, and community, is ultimately what turns iron into something much stronger: connection.
In a world that often moves too fast, First Impression Ironworks reminds us that when we invest locally, create thoughtfully, and care deeply, we do not just build beautiful things. We build the heart of the city.
Our work is powered by people who care deeply about their craft, their customers, and their community.
Rooted in Arizona, our ironwork is built to protect, elevate, and reflect the homes and neighborhoods we love.