Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexa Coughlin.
Alexa, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I grew up on the west side of O’ahu in Makaha. My dad was a skilled carpenter and taught me that anything I could imagine we could build. My mom handmade all of my costumes and clothing so I became interested in sewing from a young age. Though she passed this knowledge onto me, she is still a far better seamstress than I will ever be. From then on, I became that friend that would hand make your birthday present instead of getting something store-bought. I was that girl who learned to knit just to make you a beanie for Christmas and I am still that person today.
I left Hawaii to go to a liberal arts school in Southern California. I studied Environmental Science and then right out of college I lived in Venice and started working for a documentary production company. From there I swiftly moved up to Ojai with the company and settled in Ventura, CA. Although it would be many years before I adopted Domi boy, our perfect rescue dog, who inevitably inspired me to start a business in his name, this was the genesis of Rat Boi.
Last year, I was getting my haircut and my hairstylist gave me a scrunchie. It was navy blue velvet and I ended up wearing it all the time. I have long hair and I loved how comfortable it was, and it didn’t leave those lines after being in a ponytail all day. It broke shortly after, so I wanted to fix it. One thing lead to another and all of the sudden I was redesigning the scrunchie to be stronger, stretchier, and even cuter. I sourced high quality elastic, recycled fabrics, and added a tie to some of them. I made a bunch for my boyfriend’s nieces and soon other people started wanting them.
When I decided to launch my company, RAT BOI (a nickname we’ve given my dog for his sometimes uncanny resemblance to an 80lb rat) was the only option. He doesn’t leave my side while I’m sewing so he is very much a part of this as I am. My operation, which had been primarily taking place strewn across my dining room table moved to our garage, which I converted into a proper sewing studio.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Honestly so far the road has been surprisingly pretty smooth! I am very lucky to be surrounded by a great group of friends and family who never cease to encourage me in those inevitable moments of doubt. I keep waiting for something unexpected to happen but the universe keeps sending me signs that yes! – I am on the right path. The only issue I am running into at the moment is time. There are only so many hours in the day and I am the only one managing the production, marketing, sales, photos, branding, you name it for my company. As my business continues to grow, I will need to begin to ask for help with some of these elements. I feel very protective of RAT BOI so it is a struggle brainstorming how I will best expand without compromising our core values.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Rat Boi story. Tell us more about the business.
At RAT BOI, we are best known for our scrunchies and hair accessories. All pieces are one of a kind using locally sourced materials and handmade by me in my studio here in Ventura, CA. I also create bags, fanny packs, and other one of a kind treasures. All pieces are created on a limited run edition as we source the highest quality ethical, local, often recycled and organic textiles. Every creation comes with its own unique story. Our customers love that they can keep their individual style without compromising quality or a clean conscience.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I totally believe in luck! But you must prepare and put in that hard work so when it strikes you are ready 🙂
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ratboi.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: ratboimade
- Facebook: ratboimade
Image Credit:
Alexa Coughlin
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