We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ally Waters a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ally , you’ve got such an interesting story, but before we jump into that, let’s first talk about a topic near and dear to us – generosity. We think success, happiness and wellbeing depends on authentic generosity and empathy and so we’d love to hear about how you become such a generous person – where do you think your generosity comes from?
I believe my generosity stems largely from my father. He was an incredibly kind and giving person, always willing to help others, even to the extent of giving the shirt off his back. He instilled in me the importance of contributing to those in need, regardless of my own circumstances. He taught me that even when resources are limited, there is always something we can offer, whether it’s time, support, or a listening ear. This mindset has shaped my values and continues to inspire me to be generous in both my personal and professional life.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
The most significant aspect of my life is my cherished pets, Louis and Theodore. They have positively transformed my life in numerous ways, helping me maintain focus and adhere to my schedule. It is their inspiration that led me to establish my business, Louadore. Initially, we specialized in dog bandanas, but we are now expanding our product line to include hoodies and harnesses.
We are also excited to announce our partnership with Fluff Bar in Gilbert, where we have introduced a bandana bar. Customers can bring their dogs in for measurements, select their preferred fabric, trim, patches, and embroidery, and I will create a custom-fit bandana for their furry companions. Additionally, we will soon be featured at The Painted Tree Boutique in Gilbert.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1. Creativity: The ability to innovate and design unique products has been crucial. In a competitive market, standing out is essential, and my creativity allows me to develop distinctive styles that resonate with dog owners. To enhance this skill, I recommend engaging in regular brainstorming sessions, seeking inspiration from various sources, and experimenting with different materials and designs. Joining creative communities or workshops can also provide valuable feedback and new ideas.
2. Resilience: Entrepreneurship is filled with challenges, from fluctuating sales to supply chain issues. Maintaining a positive mindset and the ability to bounce back from setbacks has been vital. To build resilience, I suggest cultivating a strong support network of fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, or friends who can provide encouragement and advice during tough times. Additionally, practicing mindfulness and stress management techniques can help maintain focus and motivation.
3. Business Acumen: Understanding the fundamentals of running a business—such as marketing, finance, and customer service—has been essential for my success. I recommend that those early in their journey invest time in learning about these areas through online courses, reading relevant books, or attending workshops. Networking with other business owners can also provide insights and practical knowledge that can be applied to their own ventures.
For anyone starting their entrepreneurial journey, I encourage you to embrace continuous learning and remain open to feedback. Building a successful business takes time, so patience and persistence are key. Surround yourself with supportive individuals and never hesitate to seek help or advice when needed.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am indeed open to partnerships and collaborations. I am particularly interested in connecting with fellow small business owners, especially those in the pet industry, such as dog trainers, pet groomers, and boutique pet shops. Additionally, I would love to collaborate with influencers and bloggers who share a passion for pets and sustainable fashion.
If you are interested in collaborating, please feel free to reach out to me via my business email, ally.waters@louadoreboutique.com. I am excited to explore creative opportunities that can benefit both our brands and bring joy to pet owners everywhere!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://louadoreboutique.com
- Instagram: @louadore_
