Skip to main content

Featured Dog Shop: Beantown Handmade

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.
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:
My favorite three items are my Toffee High Collar sweater, Blue Baron dog hat, and felt bow ties.
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? 
You can find us at www.beantownhandmade.com, Facebook and on Twitter.
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.
~*~*~*~
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

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What Dog Owners Should Know About Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a serious viral disease that affects dogs worldwide. As a responsible pet owner, understanding this illness can help protect your furry friend and ensure prompt action if needed.  Here’s everything you need to know about canine distemper, its symptoms, and how to support a dog diagnosed with this condition. What Is Canine Distemper? Canine distemper is caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV), a highly contagious pathogen related to the viruses causing measles and rinderpest. It primarily affects dogs but can also infect other animals, including ferrets, foxes, and raccoons. The virus spreads through: Direct contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids (saliva, urine, or blood). Airborne exposure from coughs or sneezes of infected animals. Shared items like food bowls or bedding. Young puppies and unvaccinated dogs are most at risk. Symptoms of Canine Distemper The symptoms of distemper can vary and often depend on the stage of the disease. Common sign...
Post a Comment
Read more

Miniature Pinscher - the King of Toys!

The Miniature Pinscher is one of the smallest dog breeds. It originated from Germany and is often called the “King of the Toys”. The Min Pin may have been a descendant of the German Pinscher [a medium-sized pinscher breed that is also from Germany], mixed with the Italian Greyhound and the Dachshund. Kennel Clubs recognize Min Pins as “toy dogs”, and because of their boldness, they are called the “King of Toys”. source What Does A Min Pin Look Like? There is a misconception that this little dog is the miniature version of the Doberman Pinscher. Despite their incredible resemblance however, they are two distinct breeds, and Min Pins are definitely not tiny Dobermans. Miniature Pinschers have a sturdy built, a proud stance, and a commanding presence inspite of their size. They can grow anywhere from ten to twelve inches in length.  Some pinschers have cropped ears or a docked tail. They have short, smooth, shiny coats which can either be of a solid black, chocolate, red, ...
Post a Comment
Read more

DIY Projects for Dog Owners

Here are easy DIY projects you can make for your dogs:   Quick Stitch Dog Bed See tutorial  here . Make a dog rope toy from old dish towels. See tutorial  here . Make a small dog sweater out of old socks.  See the instructions here . Dog Treat: Roasted Squash and Peanut Butter Cookies See the recipe here .
Post a Comment
Read more