Today we’d like to introduce you to Lupe Casas.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Lupe. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Meemis is how it all started, my rescue poodle who I love to dress up. Going to places like pet boutiques the prices were outrageous and then shopping at Petsmart or even Target for clothes and collars meant everyone would have the same “bland” generic designs. Starting my business was not easy but getting laid off from my IT career meant I had an opportunity to jumpstart my dream shop of Furrever Doggies. I made a few T-shirts and collars and my customers loved them! Soon I found myself making more and more items. My inventory is 100% designed, cut, sewn and proudly made by me in Houston TX. Thank you to all who support my dream of dressing and accessorizing pets where I can also help rescue groups in return.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
For those who want to pursue a startup, beware it’s not always easy. I wish this story was about how Furrever Doggies was an overnight success but in the early months, it was tough selling dog collars. Fun fact, in 2013 the stork delivered me a healthy baby boy and that year it was a challenge going out to markets especially in the summer with a huge belly. But with every person I have met and my family who have told me how they truly LOVE my products it’s a boost to my hard work. My customers who often later become my dear friends are the backbone to Furrever Doggies and because of them, I am able to keep going. Stay tuned for all the new things Furrever Doggies plans to achieve.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Furrever Doggies established in July 2012 from my home workshop in Houston, Texas. Everything in my shop is handcrafted and designed by me. My customers will probably remember my collars and accessories the most but also love that I have a little something for all pets and sizes. Furrever Doggies is set apart from dog boutiques and crafters because my specialty is a variety of items. I specialize in custom orders for all pets. My most memorable request was an evil ken-evil “Cat -Cape” along with a matching cape for his human dad. I have customers from all over just like Stevie the rescue Pitbull in New York, her mom asked for a Stevie Nicks outfit for the big costume parade and I delivered.
What were you like growing up?
I loved cats as a kid they are so small, cuddly and independent I was always rescuing them and bringing them home.
My mom was usually not happy about that. My love for dogs evolved when I became an adult and was more responsible to own a pet. At one point I played with the idea of becoming a veterinarian but my fear of needles and blood quickly told me it was not for me. So instead I pursued a degree in IT with a passion for animals from the University of Houston.
Contact Info:
- Address: Houston, TX
- Website: www.furreverdoggies.com
- Phone: 713 213 0076
- Email: info@furreverdoggies.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/furreverdoggies/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/furreverdoggies/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/furreverdoggies
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/FurreverDoggies
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
