Today we’d like to introduce you to Kara Sircy.
Hi Kara, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Before starting this venture, I worked as an RDA for 12 years. I’ve always loved taking care of people, but I also had a nitch for making things and creating with my hands. In 2017 I invested in my first Cameo machine, a few sheets of vinyl and some t-shirts from the sale rack at Wal-Mart. I had only intended on creating things for myself & family.
Fast forward a few years later, I was still working full time at the dentist office, but my hobby quickly turned into a passion and then grew into a business in itself. I remember I would come home from work, and go straight to my office to design, press and fulfill orders, I absolutely loved it!
In 2021 we had our sweet son, my husband encouraged me to step away from my carrier and pursue my small business full time. He knew that’s where my heart was. This was a huge opportunity for me to stay home with our baby boy and build my own schedule that worked for us! A huge blessing it was. Not only was I able to be home and soak in all the “firsts” with our baby boy I was also able to help provide for our family. Orders were consistent, keeping me extremely busy and God continued to bless us.
Shortly after, I knew I wanted to do more with my small business , I decided to start setting up at small craft shows , with just a table and tent. This allow me to venture out of my office and have the face-to-face interaction that I’ve always loved. After a handful of events (and a lot of time spent setting up , breaking down & hauling everything in my car) I invested in a mobile boutique trailer! I’m pretty sure I cried on the way home from picking it up! I had zero idea how this would transform my business, but I was so excited! I rebranded to Designs & Apparel by Kara which opened doors for me to add more to my inventory other than T-shirts.
What started as strictly monogram shirts quickly grew into so much more. Since then, we’ve added another sweet addition to our family, who’s added to the excitement!
I am so thankful for the leap of faith I took in 2021.
I feel incredibly blessed to be able to raise our babies, be a present mama, and run a small business I love so much!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I wouldn’t say it has all been smooth sailing. Starting something from nothing has been the hardest challenge. At the time I didn’t have anyone to give me professional business advice, where to start, what to do. I just figured it out!! Aside from the business aspect, being a SAHM and running a business has been the toughest challenge! No one sees the balance it truly takes to do both and stay sain (haha). Luckily, we have a huge support system who’s there to help when needed! There’s always something new to learn, new equipment updates, new events… you just have to keep up with it and apply that change to your routine!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At Designs & Apparel by Kara I focus on unique and one-of-a-kind designs. I absolutely love putting my own touch and ideas together for my customers. We specialize in handmade custom designed tees, both sublimated and DTF printed. Custom designs to business logos, all the way to wholesale orders. We try to cover all bases!
Not only do we offer custom apparel, but we also strive to find affordable, stylish, boutique clothing as well. We know how expensive things are, that’s why we focus on offering the cutest yet affordable items! We believe everyone should be able to shop and find something they love! You can find our mobile trailer set up at events and local craft shows through out spring and fall!
I am most proud of this small business as a whole. I never in a million years thought what started at my kitchen table would be what it is today! So much growth has occurred.
I feel like what sets me apart from others is the connection I make with my customers. I know I wouldn’t be where I am right now without them. They’re not just “customers” they are friends & some even feel like family! I have met some of the best people at events. We’ve celebrated milestones together, worked closely in designing birthday shirts, retirement shirts, just all the life changing events they’ve allowed me to be a small part of. I am so grateful for the connections this small business has brought me !
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I can honestly say I have the best support team. Starting with my husband, he has encouraged me from day one to take that next step and to go for it!! He has always had faith in my decisions and has helped out whenever I need him! Aside from working his full-time job, he never hesitates to jump right in when he gets home and help. From pulling my trailer to every event, to helping fold, tag, deliver … he’s my right-hand man and I’m so glad God blessed me with him! My sweet Momma, MIL, and best friend have also been huge supporters and cheerleaders since day one. I honestly don’t know where I’d be without them!! If you don’t see me working my mobile , you’ll see one of them! They always make sure to be there so I’m not having to miss any events with my babies; because let’s be honest, that’s what this is all about!!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @designs.and.apparel_bykara
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17uioyjWUq/
