Owner: Jenni Buentello
Nature of the business:
Jen's Bowtique is an online business that sells boutique hair bows, monogrammed clothing for children and other baby items. All products for sale are handmade by owner Jenni Buentello.
Much of Buentello's business comes through MySpace, where she has pictures of various materials customers can choose from. She creates custom bows and other items to fit clients' specifications.
How the business started:
When Buentello couldn't find hair bows for her "girly girl" daughter, she took matters into her own hands -- literally -- and began making them herself. Though she had never put together a bow, it seemed to come easy. She can now make a bow from start to finish within a couple of minutes.
She adds unique details to her creations, often incorporating scrapbooking materials.
There are not too many bows like hers, said Buentello. She has an embroidery machine to create clothing and other items.
Experience in the industry:
As a stay-at-home mother of three for seven years, Buentello didn't set out to start a business. She planned to make bows as a hobby, but discovered a "natural-born talent" and loved it.
She considers the business a part-time job and spends four hours a day tending to it.
Challenges starting the business:
The most difficult part so far has been approaching retailers. Buentello's designs can be found in local stores such as Goo Goo to You in Springfield and La Boutique in Ozark, as well as online.
To get her items in stores, she had to hoof it from retailer to retailer and face her share of rejection. After hearing what owners already had or wanted more of, she was able to tailor her designs to them.
Goals for the business:
Buentello has plans to open a brick and mortar store with a friend in a year or so. She would like to make the transition once her son begins preschool.
Before Buentello started designing, she was able to find the occasional bow, but they were often pricey. The most important thing for her is catering to parents who are on a budget.
"I always keep prices affordable," she said.
Buentello creates "huge bows for a fraction of the price."
-- Pamela Spradlin For the News-Leader
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