Around the Collar offers a variety
of designer leather dog and cat collars, leather dog harnesses, leather
leashes and luxury dog carriers and accessories. Want to show the feminine
side with lot's of pink, masculine with shades of blue or sparkle with
Swarovski Crystal stones? Around the Collar will custom make it for you in
your choice of color, style and size. Fine Quality Leather Accessories
that your Canine Best Friend Deserves
I got the “bug” to relocate from Long Island into Manhattan and
attend the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. My
first job in the "real" working world was from a classified ad in
Women's Wear Daily. It was working in the design room for a popular
belt manufacturer. I knew I had to have the job. I called and called
until I got it. I handled the salesmen samples and got involved with
ordering the various components to create the belts. It was
something I became very attached to. I was comfortable with it. Over
time I moved from job to job until I was a designer on my own
accord. Eventually I traveled overseas and created products for
many private label retailers.
My daughter was 4 months old when I took my first trip overseas. It
was very exciting at first, but after a dozen times, I was ready to
give it up and find a better way to combine work and motherhood.
Lalo and I decided to start our own belt and handbag business which
led to the creation of Around the Collar in 2001.
Lalo's Story: (told by Sharon)
Lalo and I met when I needed a local contractor to make ladies
belts. I was immediately impressed with the skilled workmanship and
beauty of the items he created. Lalo, who hails from Colombia, South
America, has worked with leather products his entire life. His
mother was a tailor and his father owned manufacturing facilities
throughout Colombia.
Over time we received many requests to add to our line and became
involved in the pet industry. We realized there was a need in the
market place and decided to launch the Around the Collar collection.
I do the designing and manage the office while Lalo does what he
does best.... brings the design to life.
Toby is our border collie that has been a great inspiration for us.
He has added so much joy into our daily lives. Since Border Collie’s
are known as “working dogs”, that is what he does. He comes to work
with us and let’s us know what it’s like to have a dog around. He is
our mascot and we have created our logo around him.
Presently we have been married over 23 years, have a wonderful
daughter and a terrific dog. Who would have ever thought this would
have happened?
