Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Bento.
Hi Taylor, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Two years ago, I was working in corporate finance and was incredibly unhappy with my career. I wanted out but was having trouble finding a way forward. When I was suddenly let go from my job, I felt ashamed and embarrassed. I had no idea what I should do next.
As I was job hunting the pandemic started. Covid-19 did a number on a lot of people’s mental health and I was no exception. I have a form of OCD that causes a compulsion to pick at my skin. My therapist suggested working with my hands to relieve anxiety and fulfill my compulsions. I thought I would try out crochet. It was love at first stitch!
I had this idea that I should start a business because I didn’t want my hobby to become wasteful. I enjoy being creative and also wanted to have a positive impact on my environment. Bags by Bento was born! Getting fired was one of the best things to happen to me! I needed the push forward to go after what truly fulfills me and utilizes my skills and talent.
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?
I started my business in April of this year. It started out really well and I got super busy. My hands started to cramp up from crocheting so much! Things slowed down over the summer which allowed time for creativity and developing new ideas. I just released my crochet bag kits that come with the instructions and everything you need to make one of my custom bags to diversify my offerings and give my hands a bit of a break.
I’m hopeful sales will pick back up as I develop more patterns and kits. The competition is fierce for online businesses these days and it can be a bit discouraging at times. I have to remind myself that things are constantly changing and to keep trying new things.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I design and make crochet bags with eco-friendly materials. I’m known for my natural aesthetic and crochet tutorials on Pinterest. I’m the proudest of my innovative designs and patterns. My unique perspective as a former business professional sets me apart! I get compliments all the time on my branding and marketing.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I’ve taken quite a few risks in my life. I moved to East Africa straight out of college, bought a one-way ticket to New Zealand, to backpack for six months, and married the love of my life in a courthouse on a Monday. When I started working in corporate America my risk-taking spirit was dampened. I was constantly told to stay in my place, not to ruffle feathers, and keep my head down.
I wanted to start my own business but I was afraid of failure after being told for so long I couldn’t do it. When I FINALLY took the plunge and just made it happen I felt relief. It didn’t matter if it was a success or a failure. I had done what I thought I couldn’t do and now the possibilities are endless.
Contact Info:
- Email: bagsbybento@gmail.com
- Website: bagsbybento.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bagsbybento
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bagsbybento
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/bagsbybento
