i. I work as an Entrepreneur, Designer, Business Owner – The Sharper Barker.

ii. I do this creative work because:
It gives me the freedom to create the things I love. I want to make the world a better place and I believe quality goods, eco-friendly materials and some love can help that. Improving the lives of dogs and animals is something I hold very close to my heart. It makes me happy to see dogs and their owners happy too. I’ve had pets since I was a little girl and I always turned to them in good and bad times. I knew I wanted to start my own business and do something with animals, it was just a matter of figuring out how to combine my love of business and dogs!

iii. Personal qualities that help me in my work are:
I am super passionate about what I do. Animals and business are two of my favourite things which helps me stay motivated and continue to enjoy what I do. My self-discipline and persistence helps me to get the work done that is needed in my business. I am also patient and sensitive to the feelings of others which I think helps me deal with people. I’m meticulous and a perfectionist, while sometimes a downfall, it allows me to take the time to get it right.

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iv. The greatest challenges around doing this work are:
Managing production and making sure we always have enough inventory without having too much. It’s a bit of a balancing act!

v. Creative childhood hobbies:
I’ve always loved art and creating things, whether that be painting, ceramics or making things like homemade-toothpaste and perfume. I often took an arts class as a kid and created various projects and knick-knacks. I learned to sew in school and jewelry making class was one of my favourites!

vi. Other creators who inspire you:
I look up to many designers and entrepreneurs; a few include Sara Blakely, Joel Primus, and Anna Wintour.

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vii. Training that has helped me in this career:
I started my post-secondary at Blanche Macdonald. Unsure what I wanted to at the time I took their makeup program. In hindsight, I probably should have taken their fashion design program, but I learned so much about design and freelancing. I took the Dale Carnegie program that helped me with public speaking, quick thinking and being more comfortable around people. Then I went to BCIT and completed a certificate in Marketing Management and Entrepreneurship which really sparked my interest in business. Afterwards I took a course called Launch your Line which was all about bringing my idea to light and creating my first physical product.

viii. A common trap that can hurt people in this career:
Comparing yourself to others! Always wanting to create the next best thing. Staying focused is huge.

ix. Some proud career moments:
Creating my first product and then getting that product into its first retail store! Our lovely reviews and loyal customers that keep coming back for repeat purchases are proud moments I get to experience almost every day.

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x. If you want to work in my field, I suggest that you:
Do your research to see what is already out there and find a niche that works for you.

xi. A professional goal I have for the future:
To be a leading player in the pet industry and the go to brand for luxury pet apparel and accessories.

xiii. If you want to see my work, go to: The Sharper Barker Website to shop our collection of bamboo dog hoodies!

www.creatorsvancouver.com