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I am going to let everyone savor the detail of this image for awhile before revealing how "beach" was created, why I did it, and what I am going to do with it!
It is an incredible story.
The business of ddkdesigns,llc is the culmination of a myriad of inspirations that have evolved over my lifetime. How can it be, you may be thinking, that a pet bed company is anything more than an entity that produces fluffy, pillow-like and shapeless forms that we purchase at the nearest local discount pet supply store and subsequently dispose of several months later? In a best case scenario, these impulsive purchases provide sanctuary for our pets for perhaps one year, maybe two at the most. I have brought so many of these products into my own home with the thought that this is "The One."
And shortly before I retire these un-fluffy and increasingly shapeless pet pillows/beds because they are falling apart, have lost their appeal, and are beginning to smell, I can't help but think how I would have designed things differently. And so I did just that.
For years I have been playing with the idea of a very unique pet bed company, and have amassed a collection of materials, while quietly building a few preliminary prototypes. As I gather all of my supplies, written notes and design renderings, and every piece of dream I have carefully stored away..I realize what I have been doing for the last ten years or so. I have been putting my company together, ddkdesigns,llc, and am ready to share it with the world.
Okay, so what took me so long. Do I have a problem with commitment? Am I unsure or insecure about my ability to imagine, design, and manufacture a quality pet product? Am I inexperienced in the business of setting up a business? Sorry, none of the above...
I will humbly tell you that I have been involved in business, suffered my share of losses, and have NO problem with committing 100 percent to any venture I am involved in. I have gone to school, paid my tuition, and have evolved as a much wiser businesswoman. There are two things I will never change going forward. First, my dream and vision will always be given first consideration, and I will never let my dream fall to second place...for any reason.
Wow. Anyone who knows me understands that I have a predictable history of putting others first, oftentimes at my own financial detriment, and am honest to a fault (thanks to the scrupulous influence of my mom, dad, and Dale). Yet my current business philosophy, which could be easily construed by some as self-centered, has proven to be quite the opposite.
I think that the single most difficult business venture is tackling what is closest to your heart. You risk incredible exposure, and any loss is magnified exponentially. Putting the dreams of others' first is natural for any mom in service to others, but is also sometimes a way of avoiding the really big test. I am ready to tackle my dream, out in the open for all to see, and without apologies or excuses of any kind.
I am amazed by what has happened so far, and could not have predicted it. I surmised that once I ventured down the road of "I come first", that I might possibly be alone in my quest. But, I must have done something good because there all of you stand, supporting me. Everyone I love and care about has surrounded me with open hearts and willing hands. I have always held fast to the notion that there is room for honesty and passion in business, and no room for anything less. My beliefs are being validated.
My workshop has almost completely been relocated in 2 days, at the invitation of my sisters' family, and is currently operational with the help of my main motocross man, Tim. Jeff is still on crutches or in his temporary wheelchair due to a recent motocross injury, but stays on the scene as artistic director.
An inspiring workspace is absolutely essential for maximum productivity. My sister Carol and I artistically arranged and organized the new pole barn workshop tonight. Jeff, Tim, Carol, and I assembled "One-of-a-Kind" by ddkdesigns pet beds well into the wee hours of Thursday morning. We are determined to meet our SEPTEMBER 15th DEADLINE.
By looking deep into my heart and following the passionate dream I have held in abeyance for years, a door has opened and I have stepped into a room filled with excitement, laughter, hope, and unparalleled joy. Although my focus is decidedly directed towards my vision and goals, I haven't had to sacrifice my wish to help others, and my path has not narrowed as one might think. It's funny, but my road has become bigger, wider, and has touched and hugged more people than I'd ever imagined. What a gift it is for me to be able to include so many people in this journey, and to see them grow, use their talents, and watch them become an integral part of the dream. It is a great place to be right now, working alongside the talented Walker family and experiencing some of their "glue". We have a singular purpose and goal...to provide our domesticated pets with the very best...beautiful beds that will hug them while they sleep, uniquely and distinctively designed, and providing the comfort they deserve for many years to come.
More information coming on the incredible beach scene in a future post!
