Introducing Elise Brown.
A note from Kerrie Phipps –
Elise was nominated by someone who is inspired by her story, and I loved it too. Young people in regional areas are an asset to their community and it’s exciting to hear about new and growing businesses that attract positive attention and recognition nationally and internationally. This was the note with Elise’s nomination –
“Elise bought her first business, Fair Dinkum Dog Coats, aged 19. Despite her young age she has proven to be a discerning business woman showing great courtesy to her customers, an incredible skill in making quality dog coats, and marketing them Australasia wide via a website.” – Anon
Elise Brown 2010 Regional Achievers Award
When 19 year old Elise Brown saw the opportunity to buy Fair Dinkum Dog Coats in 2007 she jumped at the chance. She then bought her second business Midland Pet Supplies at the age of 20.
Elise ran both businesses until October 2012 when she sold the pet shop to be a mother to Monique born on September 4th 2012.
Since becoming self employed in 2006 Elise Brown has won a major award called the Regional Achievers award (2010), married, purchased a house, was invited to Government house to meet the Queen and had a baby and all by the age of 25.
Fair Dinkum Dog Coats
How did you get started in business at 19?
I’ve always had ideas, always dreaming of doing something new, but without my nan and pop’s financial support, and mum and dad’s advice, and grandma and grandpa’s loan of a work space to get me started, it just wouldn’t have happened. And, yes, I did pay my nan and pop back!
I love animals and have never been without a couple of dogs at the door and some horses in the paddock to ride. I love working with my hands and I’ve always been keen to have a go at making things. I got my first sewing machine for my 13th birthday so I could make my own saddle blankets. School was great but all I wanted to do was work with horses. My first jobs were at the Sutton Grange thoroughbred racing stables and then at Boomerang Ranch in Daylesford as a trail ride assistant. I loved both these experiences but fast realized that it was tough working in the outdoors all year round. I always wanted to be my own boss one day. When a family friend advised that she was retiring and looking to sell her part time business I was immediately interested and thanks to my family’s help, I became the proud owner of Fair Dinkum Dog Coats in 2007.
Who are your greatest supporters?
By far my greatest supporters have been my family, who financed me in both businesses and were great for bouncing ideas off. My grandmother has been amazing letting me take over her sewing shed and training me as a machinist. Grandma was trained at Emily McPherson and taught sewing. My grandfather will come into the sewing room and demand that I take a break, which is so helpful because I would just keep going some days until my body is in agony.
My mother travels Australia as a speaker / lecturer teaching public speaking, grant writing and encouraging young entrepreneurs and it’s no surprise she has been a huge supporter to me and my businesses. My husband has been supportive by helping me with anything physical like unloading a truck or delivering stock and he has been very understanding when I’m too busy to do anything else other than work.
Owning a business has been both a scary and an exciting time for me. I’ve come to appreciate how much hard work it is and I’m also very grateful for the support and advice given to me by other much more experienced business owners.
Describe a significant challenge you’ve faced. What learning can you share?
I learned a very big lesson in backing up my work when I had my laptop stolen from the shop and had to re-do 6 months of bookwork as I had not made a copy. I now back-up regularly!
Elise Brown – Coat Fitting
What do you love about doing business from your regional location?
I now have a young baby, Monique. During the day I can work on Marketing my business and taking orders. I then make the coats when my husband comes home from work and can look after Monique while I sew or I take her with me and my grandparents (her great grandparents) look after her as my sewing shed is on their property.
Castlemaine is a great place to live and be a young person in business. Our community is made up of people who love hand made products and they love to support young people in business.
I am also surrounded by family and friends, most of which live within 5 minutes of my house and sewing shed.
I can’t help but smile when I come across a dog wearing one of my coats. It is a great feeling.
What are the most important things you’ve done to grow your business?
Definitely getting online. I now receive orders from all over the world. The facebook page has also increased my sales. I think my website is so successful because it is kept simple and personal. People realize that they are dealing with an actual person when they are purchasing from me.
What does success mean to you personally?
To me success = happiness. My business makes me happy as it allows me flexibility with my family and gives self worth.
CONTACT DETAILS
Name: Elise Brown (nee Anderson)
Role: Owner
Business Name: Fair Dinkum Dog Coats
Address: PO Box 699 Castlemaine Vic 3450
Phone: 0438706302
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.fairdinkumdogs.com.au
