e Gig to Small Business
Entrepreneur Turned Her Passion Into Profit by Kate Sark my job ,” said Damico . “ When I lost my mom to cancer in April of 2017 , I realized the importance of pursuing what brings you joy , even if that means taking risks .”
Damico began to put together a business plan and save funds , and by October 2017 , she was ready to dedicate herself completely to Keys and Collars . She credits her initial success to support from her family and friends .
“ My dad has a corporate background , and my mom was an entrepreneur , so they were huge advocates of doing things the right way . When it came to starting a business , I wasn ’ t quite sure where to start , so I reached out to local resources and connections ,” said Damico . “ I quickly learned we might have a small town , but it ’ s a large community . From assistance with a logo to advice on business insurance , people were more than willing to offer advice and guidance .”
Keys and Collars grew quickly , and Damico was soon hiring more and more staff to meet demand . But the growth didn ’ t come without obstacles .
“ Finding reliable , trustworthy staff has consistently been a challenge ,” said Damico . “ We receive a lot of applicants , but it ’ s extremely important that our team members fit the Keys and Collars culture and are a positive reflection of the company .” Another huge curveball ? The COVID-19 pandemic . “ When the pandemic began and everything shut down , all our business disappeared ,” said Damico . “ We ’ re a company that relies on people being out of their homes , and all of a sudden , no one ’ s going anywhere .”
Because Keys and Collars was a part-time position offering supplemental income for many employees , Damico was able to redistribute the remaining jobs to the few employees who relied exclusively on Keys and Collars in the first few months of the pandemic . And by June , business was back and busier than ever .
“ The support from our customers was amazing ,” said Damico . “ Even if they were working from home , we had many people who retained our services . I ’ m forever grateful and believe it ’ s a testament to the way we treat our clients and the relationships we ’ ve built .”
When asked what sets Keys and Collars apart from competitors , Damico believes it comes down to two main factors .
“ We know that for many people , pets are a part of the family , and that ’ s why we ensure we ’ re offering the highest level of
service possible . Each of our team members has a passion for this business and approaches each client , and their animals , as if they were part of their own family ,” said Damico . “ Additionally , the team aspect really elevates us ; you don ’ t have to worry about a last-minute cancellation . With Keys and Collars , you know you ’ re receiving reliable , reputable care .”
Because Damico hasn ’ t had to rely on traditional marketing — she estimates over 80 % of business is generated from word of mouth and referrals — she ’ s able to reinvest in both the business and her team members . She ’ s also active in the community , taking part in community events and sponsorship opportunities .
When asked for her advice for other entrepreneurs , Damico emphasizes that you can ’ t be afraid to fail .
“ Starting a business is hard . It tests you . It ’ s going to impact your relationships with your family and friends ,” she said . “ But know that there are people battling the same challenges and that you ’ re not alone . Leverage connections and reach out to resources within the community ; you never know what someone ’ s able to offer you or what you may be able to offer someone else .”
Keys and Collars celebrated their six-year anniversary in October . So , what does the future hold ?
“ I think eventually I ’ ll want to expand our footprint , but right now , there ’ s plenty of business locally ,” said Damico . “ In the short term , I ’ m always looking to learn and grow . I want to ensure we ’ re continually evolving and looking for ways to improve and better serve our customers .”
Keys and Collars ’ services include pet visits , walks , overnight stays , doggie daycare , pet taxi services and wedding companion services . To learn more , visit keysandcollars . com .
Kate Sark has over a decade of experience in marketing , communications and public relations . A native of Daytona Beach , Florida , she resides in the area with her husband , two dogs and cat .
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