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

Hi Sarah, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?  I believe that my own motivation and perseverance are the most important factors behind my small business’ success. I wake up everyday with the desire to create and continue my journey of sharing my art with the world. It has been a lot of hard work, but I am my own self employed artist and that to me is the most important aspect of it all. I’m my own boss and I hold myself accountable everyday.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?                         I have been tie dyeing for 7 years. What started as one DIY kit from the store, is now a successful tie dye clothing business. I have something for everyone, from infants to plus sizes, and from elegant to psychedelic. Every piece is unique and hand made. I love crafting one of a kind garments to be worn into the world! 

A huge part of it for me is the people. I love setting up at farmers markets, where a community can be found thriving. It gives me a sense of belonging, a niche of my own. Over the last 6 years, I have balanced my tie dye job as well as my caregiving job. It hasn’t been easy. I face 6-7 day work weeks, long nights of catching up on this or that, and as a small business owner, the work never ends. I have to find the time to step away.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When I show my friends around the area I always make sure to take them to the Mishawaka Theater. Not only is it a great day trip up the Poudre Canyon, but it’s full of local nostalgia. I love to show my friends the river, and the tubing depending on the time of year. I am always recommending local art events such as the Larimer County Farmers Market, and live music happening at the Lyric.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost to thank is my fiancé Ian Laughner. He helps me in so many ways. He spends some of his days off at the weekend morning farmers markets. He often helps rinse and wash the tie dyes when I simply have to much to chew. He’s my number one photographer, and he really has my back in any other way that I need it. I thank Kara Malatia for renting me my first Colorado space and allowing me to tie dye within our home we shared.
I thank the caregiving job I’ve had along the way as my business grows bigger.
I thank my family members for supporting my rainbow adventure!
Last, I thank all the lovers of Tie dye who has supported me along this journey!

Instagram: Instagram.com/purpleturtletiedyes

Facebook: Facebook.com/purpleturtletiedyes

Other: Etsy.com/shop/purpleturtletiedyes

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.