Meet Beth Simpson | Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Beth Simpson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Beth, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
For over twenty years, I have been in the non-stop industry of events and catering. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and the world came to a halt, I found myself with no events to plan, and no one to cater to. It was during this time, when I found myself spending all of my days with my rescue pup Gus, that my company Gussied Up Pet Boutique was born. One day, I wanted to treat Gus for always being by my side, so we set out to our local pet store for a fancy new collar and a special treat. I looked at him and said “We need to get you gussied up, Gus!” This was the spark that set Gussied Up Pet Boutique in motion. Our pets are so important in our lives, and as I started to research the pet industry both locally and nationally, it was clear by the significant increase in pet owners in 2020 that it was more than just me that felt this way. Gussied Up Pet Boutique was created to treat our pets for always making us feel better, for being our best friends, and part of our family.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
With the increase in pet ownership in recent years, there also came a demand for pet accessories.  The idea in creating Gussied Up Pet Boutique, was to provide more fun and interesting accessories and gifts for not just pets, but their friends and family too!  With so many options for purchasing pet products in the Atlanta area, my goal is to provide merchandise that our competitors do not have.  I have gone out of my way to search for unique products that are not found in the big chain stores. In shaping my brand, I purchase from not only other small boutique pet businesses, but also include a number of original hand made items which are exclusively sold in our store.   From holidays, to birthdays, “Gotcha” days, or just an every day, our customers are bound to find a perfect and unique gift at Gussied Up Pet Boutique.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love to find places where we can bop around! Typically day one would be spent on the belt line. From the beautiful walk, to the history, neat restaurants and shops to explore, it is always a perfect day. When we’re in a shopping mood, it’s always a fun day at The Avalon. Any local music, festival, or sporting event can make for a great day too!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Gussied Up Pet Boutique has been a labor of love, and I could not have gotten to where I am today without the support of my family and friends. The support I have received goes above and beyond anything I ever expected! Each family member has volunteered their time and energy in individual ways to teach me something new and get this business to where it is today. From mentoring me on finances, to building the hand made store furniture, setting up the retail shop, teaching me about social media, and even providing some of the popular hand made items we sell, each person deserves all my thanks and love, and most of all a huge shout out from me!

Website: www.gussieduppetboutique.com

Instagram: @Gussieduppetboutique

Facebook: Gussieduppetboutique

Other: email: gussiedupga@gmail.com