Conversations with Lauren Doane

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Doane.

Hi Lauren, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m a Raleigh native and NC State graduate. Before having children and starting Parker’s Pretties, I worked as a clinical social worker providing outpatient therapy. Starting Parker’s Pretties has been a bit of a whirlwind! Earlier this year, I decided I wanted to learn how to sew. Picture me perusing Pinterest ogling all of the cute baby things I could make if only I knew how to work a sewing machine! I purchased an entry-level Brother machine, and my mother-in-law taught me some basics. With that knowledge and some help from YouTube, I was off! Baby bows seemed like an easy place to start, and for fun, I posted up a few on Facebook Marketplace. I sold several that day! Since then, I’ve felt my creativity blooming and I work to find all the time I can get to make new items. I’ve learned how to make clothes, too, and now sell on multiple platforms. I’ll be at my first vendor fair in September at Viscious Fishes. I think part of what I love about sewing and creating, is that I get to help and form connections with people, albeit in a much different way than through social work. One of my favorite things is receiving pictures from happy customers!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been a mostly smooth road with a few bumps along the way. The biggest challenge has been trying to find time to create everything I want and need. I’m sure most parents can relate to struggling to find time for themselves! My husband has been an amazing support for me and my growing business, as he picks up a lot of the slack in parenting duties when I’m working.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I currently make handmade baby bows, clothes, and other baby goods. People that purchase from my Etsy shop probably know me for making Harry Potter bows! I’d like to think something that sets me apart from others is my connection to the customer. I always strive to follow up with customers, to ensure they are happy with the order they received. This often results in them sharing pictures, which I absolutely love! Additionally, I handmake everything to order, and there is a lot of care and attention that goes into creating each piece.

What does success mean to you?
That’s a really good question! For me, I’m currently enjoying Parker’s Pretties as a small side business and hobby. Down the road, I’d love to have even more products out there as I continue to grow the business. Presently, I’d say success is defined as having a happy, loving family and satisfied customers. Everything else I’m taking it as it comes and moving along one day at a time.

Pricing:

• Bows start at $2
• Bummies start at $11
• Joggers start at $14
• Rompers start at $24

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ParkersPrettiesShop
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parkersprettiesshop/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/833618474200675