Made on Long Island: Behr's Boutique in Syosset
The business was inspired by Jessica's dog, Byron. After bringing him home in 2020, Jessica says she struggled to find pet accessories that were both cute and durable.
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A Syosset mother and daughter are helping pets across Long Island show off their style with handmade accessories created right from their home.
Jessica Behr Oxer and her mother, Pam, are the team behind Behr's Boutique, where they make everything from bandanas and bows to collars, leashes and even dog-walking bags. The business was inspired by Jessica's dog, Byron. After bringing him home in 2020, Jessica says she struggled to find pet accessories that were both cute and durable.
"I wanted something cute, something that fit him, and something that would last," Jessica said. "I didn't find that when I was shopping for things online." So, the mother-daughter duo decided to make their own. Using skills Pam learned as a child, the pair began creating custom pet accessories at home, sewing many of their products on Jessica's grandmother's sewing machine from the 1940s.
"I tapped into the resources my mom learned when she was a child, and from there, we started making accessories, and our friends loved it," Jessica said.
What started as a hobby quickly grew into a business. Today, Behr's Boutique ships products to pet owners across the country, and not just for dogs and cats. "We have sold products to birds, pigs, goats, you name it, we've sold it," Jessica said. The pair also works with local shelters, creating "Adopt Me" bandanas to help animals find forever homes.
For Jessica and Pam, the business has become much more than a creative outlet. "A hobby that turned into a passion and a dream, we're very fortunate," Jessica said.
