Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayla Rodgers.
Hi Kayla, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am a Kansas City native, and when I was in college I was gifted my late mother’s sewing machine. I didn’t know a thing about sewing, but teaching myself on her machine quickly became a way to feel connected to her.
Around the same time, I adopted a precious little kitten named Scout, so naturally, he became the first inspiration for my projects. Scout sadly passed away in 2023 but his memory lives on through Scout & Friends. My love for animals has only grown since then. Today I share life with a house full of rescue animals: my cat Nibs, box turtle Terry, and dog, Root Beer.
At its heart, Scout & Friends is about honoring where I came from: carrying forward a piece of my mom, my KC roots, and the pets who inspire me every day, while creating handmade pieces that celebrate the joy animals bring into our lives.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road certainly has not been smooth; building this business from a passion project comes with its fair share of challenges. Over the past five years, I’ve learned through trial and error as I found my place in the local maker and creative scene. I’ve spent long days, early mornings, and weekends away from family and friends, attending festivals and events across the KC-metro area to share my creations and connect with pet lovers. Over time, I’ve learned to savor those moments on the road while also cherishing the time I get to spend with the people I love at home.
Another struggle, which has affected makers and creatives across the country, is the ever-changing economy. Between the rising costs of materials and everyday expenses, running a small business can be unpredictable. At the same time, every sale I make feels especially meaningful. Knowing someone has chosen to shop with me, over a big box store, incredibly rewarding. It’s a constant reminder that the work I do and the passion I have behind Scout & Friends makes all the challenges worth it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At Scout & Friends, I create handmade, personalizable accessories for pets and the people who love them. I specialize in pieces that are both stylish and functional: over the collar bandanas, collars, leashes, other accessories that show off a pet’s personality while standing up to everyday use. I also create pet-themed home products, designed with pet owners in mind. My work is all about celebrating the joy animals bring into our lives.
What truly sets me apart from others, is my dedication to supporting a local design studio to source my fabric. By using locally designed fabric, I am able to offer designs that celebrate the things we love most about Kansas City, and give my pieces and distinctive style you can’t find at a big box store. This collaboration adds a deeper meaning to Scout & Friends; I love knowing that each item carries both my story and a piece of Kansas City pride.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I’d just like to say how grateful I am for every person who has supported Scout & Friends. Whether it’s been by shopping small, stopping by at a local event, or even just cheering me on. Every order means so much to me and I never take for granted someone’s choice to support a small business over a big box store.
If you are an animal lover, I’d love for you to follow along on my journey with Scout & Friends; whether it’s through my website, social media, or at one of the many events I attend around Kansas City.
Pricing:
- Over the Collar Bandanas: $10-$15
- Adjustable Collars: $15-$20
- Leashes: $20-$25
- Waste Bag Holders: $10
- Pet Themed Home Products: $10-$25
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.scoutandfriends.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scoutandfriendsllc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scoutandfriendsllc
