Today we’d like to introduce you to Wendy Stark.
Wendy, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My love of all things crafty began as a young child. My love of animals started with my first dog when I was in 3rd grade. I have since combined my two passions to create my business. I have been very blessed with having family and friends who have helped and supported me in this journey. About five years ago I started my Etsy shop and three years ago started selling at craft shows. I enjoy both and hope to expand my creativity to not only dog-related items but also fashion and home accessories.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I can’t stay it has always been smooth but because I love doing what I do the bumps just seem smaller. The number one struggle for me has always been time. Currently, I’m not just a mom of eight beautiful pups, but I also have a full-time job. This makes it extremely hard to keep up with the social media aspect of running a small business. The creating side has always come easy to me, I can walk into my local fabric store and be inspired within just a few feet! Thankfully I have always been supported by my great husband who sometimes doesn’t see me a lot during the holiday season! My goal is to be able to make my business my full-time job.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Mr. Bow Tie Boutique – what should we know?
I design and create stylish neckwear for dogs. This year I have added fun dog-themed t-shirts for the humans in our dog’s life! I hand make all dog collars and create all of my personalized bandanas. My most popular seasonal item is my buffalo check Naughty and Nice Bandana when I get pictures from clients they are always joking that their pup is usually wearing the Naughty side. Because I do create and make all my items I am able to customize all my items, something as simple as a size to more complex items of the bandanas or t-shirts. I have also been asked to make matching bow ties for the dads of dogs too!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My family has been my biggest support from my husband loading/unloading the truck for the eight events that I attend during the holiday season, to my mother who helps me at the events. I have also met a great group of friends through social media whom I am able to get ideas from and who are my guinea pigs when I design something new!
Pricing:
- Dog Collars with Accessory (bow tie, petal flower or rosette flower) $22 – $28
- Reversible Personalized Bandana $18 – $22
- Dog Themed T-Shirt $20
Contact Info:
- Address: 2900 Opal Court
McKinney, Texas 75071 - Website: www.etsy.com/shop/mrbowtieboutique
- Phone: 214-385-7151
- Email: mrbowtieboutique@gmail.com
- Instagram: @mrbowtieboutique
- Facebook: Mr. Bow Tie Boutique
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