Community Highlights: Meet Quinn Vogt of Lumi-Pups

Today we’d like to introduce you to Quinn Vogt

Hi Quinn, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey began many years ago as a competitive figure skater. As I grew older, I started teaching Learn to Skate lessons alongside my own training, eventually moving on to private lessons, which I did for nearly 18 years. I’m sure you’re wondering how this relates to illuminated outerwear for dogs… Well during my coaching career, I began designing and creating skating dresses for some of my students. Sewing has always been a part of my life. I learned from my Mom and Grandma, both avid sewers, and I’ve loved it ever since. Sewing and creating are definitely some of my passions. There’s something incredibly rewarding about taking a piece of fabric and turning it into something functional and beautiful. About eleven years ago, my family relocated to Michigan, and I retired from teaching skating and making dresses.

Fast forward to about two years ago, when we welcomed our first dog, a black Labradoodle named Mabel, into our family. Once she was old enough, we joined the neighborhood “dog walkers”, gathering with our pups at 7 a.m. each day to take them to the schoolyard behind our houses. It’s a large field for them to run and play – they love it! However, they often come back a bit dirty and wet! Also, at 7 a.m. it’s usually still dark!

To keep Mabel clean, I decided to get her a coat—perfect, or so I thought! I still had the challenge of seeing my all black dog in the darkness. So, I bought her a lighted collar, but her fur covered it, making visibility a struggle.

Determined to find a solution, I searched for a dog coat with built-in lights, but nothing like that existed. So, I dusted off my sewing machine and set to work creating one myself. After countless prototypes (and a lot of patience from my pup), I finally developed the patent-pending design we offer today. With much encouragement from friends and family, I produced a batch of coats and we attended our first Pet Expo. Thank goodness my Mom was there to help because the coats were a hit! So that inspired me to fully pursue this passion. And here we are today!

It makes me proud to know I created something that provides function and style as well as safety for our four legged friends. During winter in Michigan, the short daylight hours mean we spend a lot of time outdoors with our dogs in the dark – walks, camping, hunting, large backyards, off leash training, and more. Especially for those who work regular jobs, dog walks or runs take place in the early morning or evening darkness. It’s important to stay visible to drivers, other walkers, and fellow dog owners. I know it makes me feel at ease knowing we are safe and seen!

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
A smooth road? Not quite! Starting a business from scratch is a whirlwind of challenges. It requires an immense amount of work and dedication, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Thankfully, my husband is a very supportive partner and a business owner himself, so he brings valuable experience to the table. Additionally, my Uncle has a wealth of knowledge and tons of experience from starting his own business, and I’m grateful to have his insights whenever I need guidance. Plus, my husband doesn’t bat an eye when I come up with ambitious, unconventional ideas for the business! He even comes up with some himself!

As far as struggles along the way, I’m also a mom of two busy boys, aged 10 and 17. Balancing all the daily “mom” responsibilities alongside household duties, all while managing the demands of launching and growing a new business, leads to some wonderfully chaotic days! 😉

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My company, Lumi-Pups, specializes in illuminated outerwear for dogs. I have blended safety and style with my innovative, patent-pending design. Lumi-Pups outerwear features a water-resistant outer layer paired with a soft flannel lining for ultimate comfort. What sets my product apart from other dog vests is the removable, rechargeable LED lights and a unique top zipper that allows for a full belly panel, ensuring the coat stays securely in place while keeping your dog’s belly clean and dry. After all, no one likes a soggy doggy!

I’m incredibly proud to have created a product that combines style and function. My goal is to help keep all pups safe while providing dog parents with the peace of mind that comes from knowing they can easily keep their furry family members visible and secure.

I also take great pride in the meticulous attention to detail that goes into every Lumi-Pups coat. I’ve considered every aspect of construction, focusing on both the convenience for dog owners and the comfort for their pups. By using high-quality materials and durable craftsmanship, I ensure that Lumi-Pups coats are built to last!

I also provide customized sizing options for those hard-to-fit dogs because every pup is unique. After all, no two dogs are built the same but all deserve a Lumi-Pups coat!

If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Starting a business from scratch requires a special kind of person. It’s definitely not a 9-to-5 job! You need to be dedicated, self-motivated, and hardworking, especially when working from home. Creativity and thinking outside the box are definitely important as well.

In the short time I’ve been in this industry, I’ve encountered some truly remarkable business owners. The small pet business community is nothing short of incredible. Everyone is eager to offer support, share advice, and network. From my very first event, I felt so welcomed and encouraged by fellow entrepreneurs, who have been more than willing to help me navigate this journey as a newcomer. I am so grateful and appreciative of them all. It certainly fuels the fire to keep going!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Lumi-Pups.com
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/lumi.pups
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/lumi.pups