Sisters set up company to make dog collars

Sep 23 2009 by Iain Laing, The Journal

TWO sisters who could not find collars fine enough for their beloved dogs have decided to take the lead and set up their own company to make them.

Elaine Hall, of Guisborough, and Susan Coggin, from Nunthorpe, have launched Couture Collection, to make and sell their upmarket dog collars.

“We were scouring local stores and websites to find collars for our greyhounds and ended up ordering them from an online retailer based in America,” said part-time supply teacher Elaine.

“When the collars arrived they weren't really what we'd hoped for and this became a real bone of contention.”

Rather than face the prospect of another extended search, Susan, who works part-time as an occupational therapist, used her own sewing skills to create a collar for each pet.

After seeing the results, the sisters realised that this was a niche market they could be successful in and began creating more designs before setting up their own online business.

The shop Couture Collection, which now operates primarily online at www.couture-collection.com, officially launched earlier this year and is already selling its wares through independent stores on Teesside.

The company has just unveiled its autumn/winter 09 collection which includes La Belle, a collection made from soft fabrics and bright earthy colours, and the Oriental Silk collection featuring silk collars showcasing oriental flower designs.

Elaine, 40, and Susan, 43, now hope to expand their business and make their collars available through high street retailers.

“We've been really pleased and surprised by the positive response our efforts have had so far,” said Susan.

“It just goes to show that discerning dog owners have been crying out for our kind of stylish and practical collars for quite some time.”