We had the good fortune of connecting with Anna McCann and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anna, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I started crocheting because of my mother. Growing up I watched her make the most amazing blankets and gloves and hats. I would sit next to her watching her make these creations and try viciously to figure it out. Her grandmother had taught her and , with a lot of patience, she taught me. I started making more toys and animals, when I became an aunt to my amazing nieces and nephews. When my sister was expecting her daughter, Maisie, she asked me to make a baby rattle that looked like her dog. It was then I started my Etsy shop for making custom dog rattles. I have spent a lot of time figuring out how to customize and create different dog breeds and it has been such a fun adventure!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I used to work for the Walt Disney Company and that is where I found my passion for making people happy. I am currently working in the medical industry, continuing to help people. It has not been easy balancing my professional life with the crochet business that I have started. My biggest struggle was during my first Christmas season. I was unexpectedly flooded with orders and my wonderful husband had to learn to help. Together, we were able to make all of the orders and make my customers happy for Christmas. I have been so very lucky to have such a wonderful support system. I do not know what I would do without him.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There is nothing more important in my life than my dogs. I have two wonderful boys, a labradoodle Koal and a sheltie Collins. My husband and I take all of our friends to a local dog bar, Lucky Dog in Cornelius. The dogs get to run around and have fun while we play games and trivia. After that, we like to go to Barcelona Burgers for dinner. It is a wonderful Italian themed burger join in the heart of Mooresville.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My family deserves the biggest shoutout. I wouldn’t be who I am without my mom and dad and everything they have taught me. They supported me in everything I’ve done and have been by my side cheering me on. My wonderful husband, my best friend, has learned so much to help me be successful. I love them all so very much and I want to thank them for everything they have done for me.

Other: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1172383823/custom-crochet-doodledalmatian-german

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.