Page 46 of The Funnel to You

“How long does it take to get a trademark established?”

I take a deep breath and then step inside.

Chapter Thirty-Three

Sasha

Cookie Butter Latte

Social Post – All the good vibes appreciated today. Big meeting happening today and then hopefully I can share more soon! #sashaloveslipstick #readyformore #coloradogirl #noco

Image Description – Calendar screenshot of blocked off calendar today for a meeting with Ashley and “blocked out name.”

The morning started slow and cozy. The weather has just a bit of a nip in the morning, but it’s still getting pretty warm every afternoon. I’m ready for all the time “sweater weather.” At least I can justify my oversized cardigans in the morning.

Matt had left to go get coffee and breakfast while I got ready. After a quick shower and getting dressed, I go back to look at the papers on the table. I smile as I look at all the pretty branded gear that Matt got for me. He had also gotten me a necklace and water bottle with my logo on it. I flip through until I find that trademark paperwork again. I cannot believe he got this done for me. This is a big deal and definitely makes me feel super official. This is actually happening.

I wonder if I can get him one too for his business. He may already have one. A quick Google search says that he doesn’t have one for himself yet. I wonder how much of a process this is. Maybe I can surprise him with it for Christmas.

“How long does it take to get a trademark established?”

Google doesn’t take long to populate an answer.

“The trademark process can take twelve to eighteen months to get approved, but the time it takes depends on many factors. The process is complex and technical, and involves the application moving through several stages. For example, the USPTO examines the application, then issues a letter if the mark should not be registered. The applicant must then submit a response within three months, and the…”

Wait. What? I clear the search and do it again. And again. A year? I go back and look at the paper in front of me to see when it was received.

Mailed to Matt Carter, August 18 of this year. That means, it had to have been submitted in August of last year at the earliest.

Why did he submit for a trademark for my brand over a year ago? I didn’t start working with him until six months ago.

Can this be fast-tracked or expedited?

I’m about to continue my search when Matt steps inside. I stand up from the table and make eye contact with him.

And somehow, I know that he knows that I know. And I cannot even appreciate the pop culture reference at this point because what is happening?

He sets the bag down on the counter and just looks at me.

“So, I’m the one starting this conversation?” I ask him. I don’t like the accusatory tone that I have, but I honestly don’t even know what to do right now.

“If you want.” He replies softly. He doesn’t seem angry. He is very calm. And I do not feel very calm right now.

“I’m kind of freaking out right now, Matt. What is this?” I point to the screen. “A trademark takes a year to get established. A freakin’ year! When did you do this? I don’t understand.”

He takes a moment before he takes a deep breath and responds. “I filed for it two years ago.”

“Two years ago.” I repeat back to him softly. What do I do with this information? “Why?”

“Do you want to have this conversation now or do you want to wait until after your meeting with Natalie and her team today?”

“I don’t know, Matt. I need you to give me something because I am spiraling right now and I don’t know what is happening. Please, just give me something.”

He walks towards me and hands me my coffee then motions to the chair next to me. I sit down and look again at the paperwork in front of me. Now I see it, the submission date is listed in the midst of all of the legal jargon. He did submit this two years ago.

“Why?” I ask again. I am struggling to hold the tears back at this point and I’m thankful I skipped the eye makeup this morning.

He takes a deep breath and starts talking and the more he shares, the smaller I feel and the more anxious I become. When he finishes, I quietly pack up my things and start heading towards the door.

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