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

Hi Emily, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
What a great question! The idea for Arizona Native began when my boyfriend and I were at First Friday here in Arizona and he encourage me to use my love of art to start designing a brand of our own! Soon after, a friend of mine from college was visiting Arizona and wanted to know the best spots to shop for gifts/souvenirs to bring home to her family. I knew then that it was meant to be as there was an opportunity and a need. It was the perfect time to launch Arizona Native

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Along with owning my business I work a 9 to 5 in the healthcare field! I have the opportunity to work with hundreds of healthcare professionals each day which motivates me to keep working to make a difference in the world. I try to do that through owning my little business of Arizona Native, volunteering at my church and helping those around me whenever I can. This brand is all about loving the world and those around us. Enjoy the beauty, the love and the moments!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh I love this question! Right off the bat you have to visit Sedona! That is one of the biggest inspirations for our products! Visiting the little shops and restaurants is a must. And of course hiking a few of the scenic trails! Then if you make your way down to Scottsdale, there is so much to see and do! Lots of great shops and restaurants at Kierland and Old Town! Some of my favorites include Etta, Olive and Ivy and sushi brokers for food! Finally I would recommend going downtown for drinks at any of the many hidden treasures of bars or seeing a concert at one of the local venues!

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?
There are a few people I would love to shout-out! One being my amazing boyfriend for encouraging me and supporting me in this new journey ! Also, of course, my parents, sister and grandparents for helping me find and grow my love or art and entrepreneurship. Finally, anyone who has ver purchased from Arizona Native! Each shopper means the world to me as they are the reason I keep this up!

Website: ArizonaNativeDesigns.com

Instagram: @arizonanativedesigns

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