Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanya Luellen
Tanya, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
When I first began the thought process on what I wanted to start a business creating, I thought about things that were functional, that people would need. I figured everyone needs a beanie in the winter. I thought I could come up with fun designs and create custom designs submitted by clients that they couldn’t find just anywhere. I had a friend who was into leather work and that’s what gave me the idea to combine the two. I started off using real leather scraps from my previous workplace, and using a wood burner to engrave designs by hand. I originally would buy cheap hats from Menards, but progressively sought out better equipment and materials. I found a supplier for better quality beanies, a supplier for faux leather, and got a machine engraver. Through some time, I have now sold to a handful of local businesses and have over 3000 sales on Etsy.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not always been smooth. I am just one person, so life factors in. As well as the learning curve when you first start out. I didn’t have any mentors or know much about having a business. I learned most things as I went, and through YouTube videos and searching on the Internet. It can be tough sometimes, but that makes it all the more rewarding. And challenges can be fun to learn to overcome. Each challenge teaches you something. What to do, or what not to do in the future.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I mainly make beanies. But I also have a select amount of T-shirts, hoodies, and keychains. I also make stickers and prints. I like simple designs, with a more traditional tattoo style or cartoon style. I am definitely known for my beanies though. I am proud of how much I’ve done, and how much I’ve worked at growing. It’s a lot to do on my own, but I have figured it out as much as I can. What sets me apart, I think, is that I don’t see many other people doing what I do. I’ve looked, and I see similar things here and there, but not the exact same thing that I do. It’s kinda cool .
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
Interesting question. I’ve never thought about it too much, but what comes to mind this minute is when me and my two best friends would go camping during the summer in the backyard. We did it every year from middle to high school. We would watch a movie in a tent, talk, have a fire and food and be silly little girls.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Etsy.com/shop/prettycoolbeanies
- Instagram: prettycoolbeanies
