Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Phagan
Hi Amanda, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
It all started with a dog, a dream, and an heirloom sewing machine!
In 2020, as COVID-19 pandemic boredom and anxiety set in, many of us channeled our newfound downtime into new hobbies. While many of my friends perfected the art of breadmaking, I started an Instagram account for my rescue dog, Asa. (I tried making focaccia but quickly discovered that baking was not my strong suit). I became enamored with “Dog Instagram” and, before I knew it, Asa had several hundred followers.
Through his account, I discovered a handful of small businesses that really inspired me. One of which was a beautifully designed Etsy shop featuring all sorts of unique and creative dog bandanas. I thought to myself, “I could probably learn how to do this. Then I won’t be as tempted to spend a ton of money buying him a wardrobe of cute accessories!” Because let’s face it…the pandemic fed many of our online shopping addictions, too!
I knew that my mom had an old sewing machine that she didn’t use anymore—the same one she used to sew my baby clothes, my favorite childhood stuffed animal, and even quilts. She had always wanted to teach me how to sew, and I finally wanted to learn. My husband and I visited her one weekend and she taught me everything I needed to know to make my very own dog bandanas. She even surprised me by “lending” me her old favorite sewing machine. I practiced stitching all weekend, thrilled that my mom and I could bond over something creative that we both loved. We joke now that she knew she wasn’t getting that sewing machine back.
I made Asa his first handmade bandana with “my” sewing machine—which, like me, was still kicking after nearly 30 years. To my surprise, Asa LOVED modeling it (probably because treats and attention were involved). After that first bandana, I couldn’t stop. I discovered fabric stores and the joy of curating. I found all kinds of incredible fabric created by independent graphic designers. Soon enough, Asa & Company was born! I’m so grateful that things came together the way they did. I’m still sharing my “new hobby” with the world four and a half years later!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I dove head-first into opening a small business. It was certainly impulsive. But hey, others were doing it…and so could I! Still, some small business owners had been practicing their craft for decades, and here I was in my first year of even DISCOVERING my creative passion.
The beginning felt easier in a lot of ways. Sure, there were lots of up-front costs and learnings. But people really like supporting their friends’ new ventures, so I had lots of initial sales. What I didn’t think about at the time was eventually getting busy and overwhelmed with other parts of life and not being able to sink nearly as much time or energy into this passion. I have luckily managed to find pockets of time and energy to continue this little adventure, but imposter syndrome is so real. I am always comparing myself to other small business owners who seem to “have it together” way more than I do. I’ll envy their Instagram pages or follower counts or sales numbers. I’ll question if my designs are truly unique or if my product photography sucks. That’s the hardest part of this passion. Comparison truly is the thief of joy!
When I started doing in-person markets, I discovered the super fun world of business licenses, business insurance, and complicated taxes. I don’t love any of that stuff.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
During the week from nine to five, I’m a marketing content writer. Creating unique accessories for pets and their people is my “side hustle” and creative hobby. I am most proud of the colorful, creative, and often humorous fabrics I choose to create pet bandanas. I spend a ton of time curating designs that reflect my personality and interests. It brings me so much joy when others love them, too!
Reversible pet bandanas are my top-selling item, but I also make and sell hand-stamped pet tags (leather and metal), handmade dog and cat toys, handmade “pawty” hats, can coolers, and other delightful goodies designed with pets and their people in mind.
I am proud to use eco-friendly packaging and compost my cotton fabric scraps. I do everything in my power to limit the amount of waste I add to our already overflowing landfills. I also take custom orders and will do just about anything to keep my pupstomers’ tails wagging!
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I couldn’t do what I do without Etsy, Instagram, or Canva. Etsy has been an incredible launchpad for me as a small business owner. There are many online storefront options out there, but Etsy has been so intuitive, cost-friendly, and easy to maintain that I’ve never strayed from it. Instagram is how I reach the majority of my online customers. It’s also how I bring my brand to life for the world to see. Canva helps me with that, too. I make social media graphics, banners, and even my in-person signage with Canva!
I would be lost without these apps, but I’ve also found a lovely, welcoming, and super talented group of local small business owners who inspire me every day to be better and, most importantly, keep going.
Pricing:
- Reversible Pet Bandanas: $12-20 Each
- Hand-Painted Leather Pet Tag: $15 Each
- Hand-Stamped Metal Pet Tag: $10 Each
- Dog Mom Shit Bag: $10 Each
- Handmade Cat Toy: $10 (Pack of Two)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/AsaAndCompany
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asa.and.company/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asa.and.company/
