Today we’d like to introduce you to Gina Perez.
Hi Gina, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I was born and raised in San Antonio, where my upbringing was shaped by the vibrant tapestry of a diverse and culturally rich city and surrounded by family. Growing up in the ’80s, I experienced the typical latch-key routine of a child from a split home, yet both of my parents remained actively involved in my busy life. Raised in an environment emphasizing hard work and an entrepreneurial mindset, I absorbed valuable lessons in diligence.
From an early age, the playbook for success was clear — excel in academics, adhere to the golden rule, and hone both your athletic and intellectual abilities. Childhood sports not only nurtured my natural talents but also instilled crucial values such as healthy competition, learning from victories and defeats, functioning within a team, and valuable lessons in leadership.
As an adult, my journey led me to Texas A&M University, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in business while lettering in softball. This period coincided with the rise of the internet and the cusp of the social media revolution.
Following a three-year stint as a professional softball player in Florida, I transitioned into the corporate realm. For two decades, I contributed to the development and sustainability of the e-commerce business for an international sporting goods retailer. After 17 years, I pivoted to a four-year tenure in the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) snack food industry. While the promotions and pay increases denoted success by conventional standards, I sensed an unfulfilled void and an eagerness to make a meaningful impact.
An epiphany struck during a conversation one evening with my family, reigniting a lifelong desire to embark on my entrepreneurial journey. The questions of “In what context?” and “How do I go about this?” loomed large.
My passion for animals, especially dogs and cats, played a pivotal role in shaping my new venture. Over a focused span of 3-4 months in late 2019, I delved into extensive research, undertook business development efforts, and began establishing my brand and assets, all while juggling a full-time job. Nights blurred into early mornings as I dedicated myself to this endeavor.
As the strain of my dual responsibilities took its toll, my partner and I strategized the pivotal “when and how” of my departure from the corporate world. Just three weeks before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, I officially left my job, stepping into the exciting terrain of entrepreneurship.
Initially, doubts crept in, fueled by the unexpected global pandemic. However, fate took an unexpected turn. Contrary to my apprehensions, the pandemic proved to be a catalyst for my venture. Extensive research had indicated the pet industry’s resilience during economic downturns, and true to form, people began ordering pet products online at unprecedented rates, accompanied by a surge in pet adoptions.
In hindsight, what initially felt like a mistake turned out to be a serendipitous alignment with a changing world. The pandemic became the catalyst that propelled my entrepreneurial journey, and in embracing the unforeseen opportunities, I found the fulfillment I had been seeking all along.
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?
Embarking on the journey to establish my own business has proven to be a rollercoaster of experiences marked by challenges that tested my adaptability, financial acumen, and knowledge base. The path has been far from linear or seamless, and I’ve encountered significant hurdles in the realms of change, money, and knowledge.
Adaptability has always been one of my strengths, yet the types of changes I faced while venturing into entrepreneurship were unforeseen. The onset of the pandemic presented an unprecedented challenge, disrupting communication channels, supply chains, timelines and plunging everything into chaos and worry. While this experience was shared by many, it added a unique layer to the already demanding task of starting my own business. The uncertainties led me to question my decision to depart from the stability of my corporate life.
Financial challenges emerged as a formidable obstacle. As someone who has prided herself on financial independence and savvy management, the entrepreneurial journey demanded a departure from these norms. Despite possessing strong willpower and a belief in pursuing one’s desires, obtaining capital and credit for a small business proved to be an unexpectedly difficult task. Repeated denials for small-business loans, despite self-funding my entire business initially, hindered my growth. The frustration peaked as I observed large corporations effortlessly securing COVID funds and substantial investments while I struggled to qualify for any support from local and national lenders.
The third prominent challenge centers around knowledge. While I brought substantial corporate and e-commerce expertise to the table, delving into the intricacies of the thriving Amazon Seller space required a concerted effort. My 22 years in e-commerce provided a valuable foundation, yet grappling with the volatility and foreign competition in the Amazon arena presented a new learning curve.
In navigating these challenges, my unwavering determination and support system have propelled me forward, even through the tumultuous times of the pandemic. While the road to entrepreneurship may not be smooth, each obstacle serves as a steppingstone, offering lessons that contribute to the growth and evolution of both the business and its founder.
As you know, we’re big fans of Texas Pet Company. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about the brand?
Texas Pet Company represents the culmination of my dedicated efforts, crafted with sheer determination and a blend of hard work. While I operate as a primarily one-person show, I have enlisted the support of retainer agencies for essential functions such as bookkeeping, taxes, and legal matters. From administration and marketing to merchandising, sales, and distribution, all aspects emanate from my workspace.
My primary objective has always been to provide pet lovers with healthy products that align with our shared passion. Emphasizing natural ingredients and a focus on products made in the USA have been crucial components of this mission. Moreover, I aimed to extend a helping hand to those in need within the pet community. The ability to contribute and donate to organizations dedicated to animal well-being brings immense joy to my heart.
What fills me with the utmost pride is the creation of a brand that I genuinely stand behind, operating within an industry that caters to the animals I hold dear. Doing things ethically and responsibly has been a cornerstone of my journey. I take pride in the fact that the industry, and the world at large, is vast enough to accommodate diverse players. My aspiration is not to eliminate the competition; rather, I firmly believe there is ample space for everyone to thrive in the pet space industry.
In essence, Texas Pet Company is not just a business venture for me but a platform to make a positive impact while ensuring a decent livelihood for my family. It’s about coexisting in an industry that resonates with my values and allows me to contribute to the greater good.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
In the pet supply industry, a crucial quality for success, especially for entrepreneurs, is a genuine passion and love for animals and their well-being. The ability to connect with and understand the needs of pets, as well as a sincere commitment to providing them with high-quality products, is paramount.
This passion extends beyond a mere business venture; it becomes a driving force that fuels innovation, dedication, and a continuous quest for improvement. Brands that genuinely care about the health and happiness of animals are more likely to invest time and effort in researching and creating products that meet or exceed industry standards.
Moreover, a passion for pets translates into authentic relationships with customers. Pet owners can often discern whether a brand is driven by a genuine love for animals or merely pursuing profits. Building trust and loyalty with pet lovers requires a heartfelt commitment to our furry companions that products are designed for.
In addition to passion, adaptability is another critical characteristic. The pet product industry is dynamic, with evolving consumer preferences, dietary trends, and regulatory changes. Brands must be agile and open to adjusting their strategies based on market shifts and emerging trends.
Ultimately, a combination of passion for animals, a commitment to quality and customers, and the ability to adapt to changing landscapes is a powerful recipe for success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://texaspetcompany.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TexasPetCompany
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TexasPetCompany
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/texas-pet-company
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/TexasPetCompany
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@texaspetcompany
- Other: https://texaspetcompany.com/linktree
Image Credits
Texas Pet Company
