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

Hi Erin, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I started my bow company in 2020, right when everything shut down with the pandemic. Everything seemed so unknown and it truly helped me to have the creative outlet. It also was a way that I thought I could help my family financially in a time that seemed so uncertain.

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 actually went to college to be a teacher and then right after school to cosmetology school. I was in a salon for 11 years when I decided to stay home with our 3 children. We had two daughters so I thought making bows for them would be fun. It was just a hobby and because I loved hair it just seemed fitting. I love making bows. I love seeing different bows and trying to figure out how to make them. I love that, like anything else, the style of them is constantly changing. The bows I made for my 6 year old daughter aren’t the style that I made for my 3 year old daughter. I make each of my bows as if they were made for one of my daughters to wear. I take pride in making a quality bow and always want to get better.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I think there’s so many great places in the area to visit. Depending on the friend, I might take them hiking or up north. We’re so close to some fantastic places to make a little day trip.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I don’t think I ever would have thought to sell my bows if it wasn’t for my family and friends. Specifically, my husband. During the process of starting my bow company I wanted to learn to sew. My sweet husband learned along with me just so he could encourage me along the way (and fix any issue I caused with the machine). My friends have supported my business, celebrated my successes and been there for me when I wanted to give up. It truly felt like a village raising a bow maker.

Website: www.Etsy.com/shop/littlesistersbowco

Instagram: littlesistersbowco

Image Credits
Egan Eyes Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona 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.