Finalist Q&A: Calandre Designs LLC

Calandre Designs LLC have designed a high-quality American made line of dog beds & accessories called LoveBarklee. These beds can be perfect for an interior designer that might be looking for a little surprise for their client, or for a regular dog lover that loves to pamper their pooch.

How did you come up with the idea for your business, and what, or who, is your main source of motivation?

I came up with my business idea because I wanted to create a product that not only was a benefit to our pets, but it was also a benefit to people as well. Many of us view our pets as extensions of our family and we want them to feel comfortable and appreciated. After all pets are a source of therapy for people and create a healthier life. My main source of motivation is our two dogs and also my passion for design. All of my products are designed piece by piece by myself and I strive to create stunning quality products while studying our dogs and trying to understand what they like and dislike.

What is a unique feature of your business?
A unique feature of my business is the designs of my dog furniture and other accent pieces that are all handmade in the US instead of created overseas. At the age of 23 I came to the decision that I wanted to take a chance and start my own business while going back to school for Interior Design. I wanted to create products with the use of local vendors to ensure they were American made. Something was missing in my life, and it was creativity and passion for what I was doing. While developing my passion for interiors, I'm exploring my creativity with my dog products and I'm also learning so much about the business side of life and how much work creating your own business is. I have a high level of respect for every business owner, you business is your life, sweat and tears.

What are your thoughts on the connection between small business and the local community?
In my town small businesses make up our community. I'm not sure if it is because we aren't a large suburb, or if it's because we strive to keep the small town feel as we grow in population, but we have a great sense of pride in small businesses. In economic times like this our town may suffer because we are mostly small business driven, but we all just keep plugging away waiting for better times to resurface.

Why should the Idea Cafe regulars vote for you?
I would love a vote from the Idea Cafe voters because I hope to give back to my local community businesses and I have so much passion and so many ideas that I'm ready to share with pet lovers. I hope to raise the level of quality and thought behind pet products, and also design for the people that love them. I want to keep using local businesses in my creations and keep my products American made. Vote for me! :)