Allison Eagan shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Allison, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think that people misunderstand how we run SoCal Wienerfest. SoCal Wienerfest is a volunteer run event and the only money we make from it goes directly into hosting the next event. Each of us have fun time jobs and do these events on our own free time. I hope people appreciate the work that goes into it.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Allison Eagan and I am the founder of SoCal Wienerfest. SoCal Wienerfest started as a small event to bring dachshund lovers together and be able to participate in fun activities. We started it in 2016 and have grown bigger every year. We are the largest dachshund event in America with 4000+ attendees and over 2000 dogs. We have vendors, contests, raffles, and of course wiener dogs races. This organization is run completely by volunteers including Dani Moore, Stephanie Pitts, Stephanie Nguyen, Katie Camarena, and myself.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
There’s always a moment at SoCal Wienerfest that I take in every year. I stand at the top of the hill and look over the event. I see the people shopping, taking pictures of their dogs, and meeting each other. I hear people laughing, dogs barking, and people talking. I love it every year because I am reminded why I do these events and it makes me so happy.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Every year before the event, I go through a moment where I wonder why I do all of this. It’s so much work and it becomes very stressful. After covid, I didn’t know if people still wanted to attend the events and I almost thought about not bringing it back. But I’m so glad I did because it gets better and bigger every year!
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
My team! I have a team of five and between all of us, we come up with great ideas and goals together.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope that people think I was kind and fun. That people will appreciate all the work and the time I spent creating this brand.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.socalwienerfest.com
- Instagram: socalwienerfest
- Facebook: SoCal Wienerfest
Image Credits
Adam Guerin, Brandon Gadduang, Nayeli Rodriguez
