Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with James Straggas, founder of K9Wear, located in New York City, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
K9Wear provides the best in fashion for your dog with our patent-pending, made-in-America harness, which is guaranteed for life. It acts as a platform for ever-expanding lines of dog apparel. We have made it possible to dress your dog without sacrificing its comfort or mobility.
Our customers range from the dog parent wanting to wear matching outfits with their best friend to the person who can't get their dog to wear the necessary layers on a snowy day.
Tell us about yourself
I first had the idea for K9Wear when I couldn't get my Boston Terrier, Ronnie, to put on a sweater. It was way too cold for him to go outside without one, but he refused to wear it. This led me down a rabbit hole. The problem is nobody ever took the time to design dog outfits for the end user, the dog. K9Wear's slogan is "Happy Together." We strive to give dog owners this unique connection to their dogs while ensuring comfort and safety for every pooch.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
A big one recently was Women's Wear Daily referring to us as a 'pet fashion brand' in a recent article. Overall, it has been the caliber of the team I have been able to bring on this journey.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
There is nothing that can prepare you for running a business. At the end of the day, there is an overwhelming concern for your team that nobody else but you will feel. You have to absorb a lot of concern and worry while being the cheerleader for everyone. There is no rule book on how to run a company, so it is up to you to create your own.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Become the right hand of someone else with their own business. You will learn more by being involved.
- It is like running a yellow light. Hesitation won't help. It was important for me to decide early on I was all in.
- Surround yourself with people better than you.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.k9wear.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/k9wear_official/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/k9wear-inc/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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