We had the good fortune of connecting with Sami Reuter and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Sami, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business happened so naturally. I was at a point in my life where I missed having a dog of my own, but couldn’t have one where I lived so I started dog sitting for the companionship. Within about 8ish months I built up a client base and was able to quit my other jobs. I then went on a rafting trip and saw someone with paracord oar tethers and wanted a pair for myself. Buying a few hanks of paracord, I got to work. I soon realized there was a whole world of things I could make, and dog supplies fit right into my already operating business. Seeing all my clients dogs rocking my gear melts my heart and sharing my products with those around me brings me great joy. Now I mainly focus on dog gear but am hoping to expand my inventory in the near future.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Arts and crafts have been something that’s interested me my whole life. I remember watching my mom cross stitch when I was a kid, and learning a few things from her. From learning new crafts at school events, to teaching arts and crafts at a summer camp, When I was a child I remember going to dog shows with my dad and asking to pet every dog I would pass. Dalmatians were my favorite at the time. We’ve had a dog in our family house for the duration of my entire existence. After I moved away from home and started missing having a furry friend, I started helping others with theirs and before long I was able to create a pet care business of my own.
it really feels like I’ve come full circle being able to live life doing things that I am passionate about;
I’m grateful I get to share my passions with the world around me!
Consistency is key! Some days are hard, you might be overwhelmed by your to do list or feel like you aren’t making progress, but keep doing ONE thing every day that will help grow your business. Before long, you will have done more than you even though possible! Working for yourself isn’t always easy, but it is the one of the most rewarding things I have ever done for myself. You have to be your biggest cheerleader!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My favorite spots might me a bit more off the beaten path. While I do love spending my days off climbing at the Movement gyms, my ideal multi day experience is spent on the river. Rafting in the summer is one of my favorite things, and anything I can do with my pup is always an added bonus. I love to food prep, so I always like to be in charge of the kitchen on these trips. I’ll spend a few days before the trip getting all the meals ready for everyone, including my pup. I also love finding off the beaten path hot springs and eating fresh sushi and tacos on the beach in San Diego is one of my favorite “city” spots.
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?
I really just want to thank all my friends, clients and other local businesses who have supported me every step of the way. I owe a huge thanks to all my current clients for adding my products to their pups collections. Also a huge thanks to Sarah, the owner of A&A Pet Supply in Frisco, Co, who helped me with not only putting my first products in her store, but she went as far as helping me with finding a business name and creating my tags. As I expand into more locations, I am forever grateful for all the support, advice and love every shop has given me since!
Website: Hightailsparacord.com
Instagram: Instagram.con/Hightailsparacord
Facebook: Facebook.com/Hightailsparacord
Other: TikTok @Hightailsparacord