Tail Wags Helmet Covers: Behind the Brand
Karyn Climans: My name is Karyn Climans and I am the owner/creator of Tail Wags Helmet Covers . My husband Jeff and I have 2 wonderful sons: Josh is 21 years old and Daniel is 19. We have 2 dogs: a German Sheppard named Lucaya and a Golden Retriever puppy (11 months old) named Harley. My favourite colours are green (it represents nature) and tangerine orange (it’s a sunny colour).
GSB: What compelled you to start this business? How long have you been at it and where is it located? How many employees do you have?
KC: Following a serious ski accident in which my ski helmet saved my life, I wanted to create a product that would make it FUN for kids and adults to wear their safety helmets. I started my business in the basement of my Toronto home just over 6 years ago. Today, Tail Wags employs several part time seamstresses, a bookkeeper, graphic artist and photographer. In addition, as required, I hire high school students on an hourly basis to help tag and package the helmet covers.
GSB: How has the response been?
KC: If you told me 6 years ago that Tail Wags would grow into a company selling products internationally, I would never have believed you! The remarkable growth of my company is something of which I am very proud.
GSB: Why is being identified as a Canadian company important to you?
KC: Being involved in the design and creation of my helmet covers, every step of the way, is important to me. My brand is built on quality, so monitoring the production process closely is a priority. Finally, made in Canada products lead to more jobs for Canadians and, in this economy, that’s essential.
GSB: What advice would you give to a budding Canadian entrepreneur?
KC: Being an entrepreneur is a 24/7 job but the rewards are worth it. Although the first 3 to 5 years are the toughest, if you’ve got a good idea and you are passionate about what you’re doing, stick to it! Your hard work will pay off.
GSB: Is there something you can tell us about that we might be surprised to know about you?
KC: I never dreamed of being an entrepreneur because I always assumed I’d work for someone else as a teacher or lawyer, however, now, I can’t imagine working for anyone else. I love the freedom and challenge of running my own business!
Thanks for sharing some of your fascinating entrepreneurial experience, Karyn! Here's how to enter to win the Tail Wags Helmet Cover of your choice:
- "Like" the Tail Wags facebook page
- Tell Buy Canadian First on our Facebook page what design you like the best. (Check them all out at www.tail-wags.com!).
