Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Kleck.
Hi Lauren, 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?
My business, currently known as Cool Babiez, began because of my family. It started with making blankets for my newborn niece, then my own daughter born 4 months later, then my husband, and it snowballed from there. I fell in love with super soft, faux fur and the multitude of patterns available in quilting fabrics. Encouraged and supported by family and a growing stash of fabrics, I launched my business at a local holiday street fair in San Tan Village mall.
I hired my sister as my right-hand woman and enlisted my family for help. They are always there for me from helping with market set-ups, tear-downs, babysitting, and everything in-between. I primarily sell my one-of-a-kind blankets at local outdoor markets, through my website, and my Instagram account.
Family is a major influence in my life, however, anyone that knows me will tell you that art and creating are my greatest passions. Over the summer off season, I’ve taken the time to re-evaluate my business and the direction that I want to grow. I am very excited to announce that I’m rebranding this October and changing my business name to Desert Moth! The name Desert Moth came to me because moths are unique, furry, nocturnal (like me), and they love fabric. This change will enable me to merge my sewing with my artistic creativity.
I will still be selling the same high quality, handmade, one-of-a-kind quilted blankets. In addition to cozy blankets, I will expand my product line to include DIY sewing kits, small décor items, and fabric prints that are new original designs. My new designs will be inspired by my hometown state of Arizona, modern trends in design, and a sprinkling of fantasy. I’ve already started designing and can’t wait to make my prints available to the public this upcoming year. I’m doing my first sewing tutorial on making small loveys this November 13th at the Pinner’s Conference at Westworld. That will be the launch of my DIY sewing kits for people that want to learn how to work with faux fur. I’m very excited to take the next step in my little business and see how it takes flight.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like most small businesses, I have had my share of struggles. I usually struggle with time management, social media, and believing in myself. I am also a victim of mom guilt and worry about spending enough time with my two daughters and husband. I put a lot of time into hand crafting my blankets and my business during the winter and holiday season, which is my busiest season. It’s stressful to feel like I cannot always be present for my family when I am trying to build my business. And Covid really changed my home routine and has been a struggle to adjust. Social media is another area I feel like I have a hard time with.
I didn’t even have an Instagram account until I started my business. It’s been a real learning curve for me and I often feel like I worry about a post not sounding good, having multiple typos, or being professional enough. Finally, just having the faith in myself to go for it can be a struggle. I’ve found that talking about my worries and having the community of other amazing local vendors has really helped me overcome a lot of these struggles. A lot of my growth comes from hard times. In the end I know persevering and asking the hard questions can actually lead me to some really positive outcomes like my rebranding.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m known for my products being one-of-a-kind and going above and beyond for my customers. When you shop locally and get one of my blankets it’s being made in my home (or my sister’s), by my hands, and made with love. Also, I think people really respond to the fact they will be the only person with this exact blanket. They like that this is a luxurious, unique item specially made just for them.
My customers are important to me and whether it’s a premade blanket or a custom order, they know they are getting a distinctive piece. Half of my blankets sold are custom orders. I love the custom order process! I really take the time to listen to my clients and get them the perfect fabric combinations. It’s a really fun process helping them pick out fabrics together and creating something special for their loved one.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can work with me by sending me a DM through Instagram or emailing me directly Lauren@coolbabiez.com . I am always open to working with other local business owners on giveaways, to help grow followers, for branding, and almost always donate items for a good cause. I will be doing a lot of surface pattern designs for original prints and I would love to expand my work by creating them for other local businesses and brands too. I believe a big part of having a small business is leaning on and supporting the other amazing vendors in the community.
I’m open to new markets and I’m always willing to try something new. If you want to support me you can follow me on Instagram, like some posts, and/or post a picture with your blankets and tag me. Always feel free to spread the word to others you think would love a cuddly blanket, or buy a piece for yourself to enjoy. Pictures and tags of people enjoying my blankets is honestly what keeps me sewing and growing. Thank you to all my supporters who have helped me on my journey so far!
Pricing:
- Lovey Blanket 12”x12” with ribbon loops – $25
- Snappy Blanket 18”x18” with a corner snap and BPA free silicon teething ring – $35
- Small Blanket 30”x36” – $75
- Medium Blanket 42″x54″ – $140
- X-Large Blanket 54″x72″ – $205
Contact Info:
- Email: lauren@coolbabiez.com
- Website: www.desertmoth.com | www.coolbabiez.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coolbabiezco | https://www.instagram.com/desertmoth
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/coolbabiezco | www.facebook.com/desertmoth
