Anne and Michael are the couple behind the shop Bean Town Handmade – a shop that sells handmade dog clothes. I would like to thank Anne for taking the time to do this interview. More than just being shop owners, both of them are animal lovers too and a portion of their proceeds are donated to various animal rescue organizations all over the world. Check out my interview with Anne to know more about their pets and their business:
How old is your shop?
I started Beantown Handmade in November of 2008.
What’s the inspiration behind your shop name?
Our Boston Terrier Bean was the inspiration for our shop name. Bean is named after Boston, aka Beantown.
Our Boston Terrier Bean was the inspiration for our shop name. Bean is named after Boston, aka Beantown.
What moved you to start your own dog apparel business?
When Bean was a puppy he was always cold and we had a hard time finding clothing that would fit him well and keep him warm in our cold Nebraska winters.
Can you give us a peek on the creative process involved in making clothing and accessories for dogs?
Our dogs Bean and Lily are definitely the inspiration for my creative process. I try to design to meet their needs and often try out new designs on them for several weeks to see if they are comfortable and can move freely.
What was the toughest challenge you faced so far and how did you get over it?
I am only able to crochet so many hours a day without injuring myself, so that can be a bit frustrating at times. I’ve learned how to manage this throughout the time I’ve been in business. I only take as many orders as I can fill. It’s important to make sure I stay healthy and keep enjoying what I do.
Name your top 3 favorite picks from your shop:
Your favorite dog shops:
My favorite three dog shops to browse on Etsy are Studio Legohead and Roll Over Leatherworks.
Can you introduce us to the beautiful dogs who model your clothes?
Most of our modeling is done by our dog Bean, who is a natural in front of the camera. Our female Boston Terrier Lily doesn’t like to model as much as Bean but she will occasionally oblige us for some treats.
Can you tell us more about your dogs?
We got Bean from a reputable Boston Terrier breeder when he was a puppy. We adopted Lily through Nebraska Boston Terrier Rescue in March of 2010.
Why should people not be afraid to adopt a dog from a shelter?
There are so many dogs in the world in need of a good home, and the vast majority of them are in that situation at no fault of their own. Because Lily was already an adult dog when we brought her into our family, the transition was really seamless. She and Bean are best friends, and our lives are all so much richer because of her.
Please tell us how you support animal rescue organizations all over the world?
We donate products and make monetary donations to a variety of rescue organizations and the WSPA.
What advice can you give to people who are considering pet adoption?
Adopting a pet is one of the most rewarding things you will ever do. Every day you provide love and care for a rescued pet you are giving them a wonderful gift. All animals deserve a second chance at a fulfilling and happy life.
Businesswise, what tips would you want to share for aspiring home based entrepreneurs like you?
I think the most important thing to remember is to scale your business to what is best for you. I’ve had times when I ran Beantown full time and others where I scaled it back. The wonderful thing about being your own boss and running a business online is that you can set a pace that’s right for you.
Where else can we find you online?
Any message to your customers and the people who support you?
We have received a lot of love and support from customers and animal lovers through the years and we are so grateful and appreciative. I love my dogs to the moon and back and am so fortunate that everyone enjoys my work as much as I love making it.
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Hop over Bean Town Handmade to see all their items. You can also visit Bean’s blog for updates. Thanks so much Anne!
Do you sell products for dogs?
Do you love dogs?
If you would like to be featured on this blog,
email me at dogsweluv@gmail.com
Do you love dogs?
If you would like to be featured on this blog,
email me at dogsweluv@gmail.com
