In May of 2023, Anna Kelzer opened W&O Apparel LLC, offering direct-to-garment printing on basic wear needs and essentials. Each order is printed on demand and made unique for each customer.
Her journey started at home with a Cricut and the desire to see her designs on different clothing and accessories. W & O’s designs reflect the local community, faith, and kindness surrounding Anna and her family.
As the sole owner of W & O Apparel, Anna greatly appreciated the support and indirect involvement from family, friends, and her community.
W&O Apparel is very family-oriented. Gaining inspiration from her family, Anna named W&O Apparel after her two sons.
In addition to her website, W&O Apparel sells products through Anna’s mother and sister-in-law’s salon.
Sharing and engaging with W&O Apparel’s social media, writing reviews, and making introductions are ways that friends and people in the Danville community have supported W&O Apparel.
The Danville community has always supported W&O Apparel, which Anna credits for a lot of her success. Therefore, Anna prides herself in giving back to that community that has helped her so much.
One way she has given back was through holding fundraisers and helping other small businesses and organizations create custom merchandise. Also, last two years, W&O Apparel had a fundraiser for the local hospice. Through this fundraiser, Anna was able to donate in memory of her late grandparents.
America’s SBDC Iowa was instrumental in starting W&O Apparel. Anna met with Janine Clover, the Regional Director of the Southeastern Community College SBDC. When reflecting on her experience with the SBDC, Anna stated, “If not for that referral [from a local small business, Knotted Wonder LLC], I probably would not have been confident enough to make the leap to open W&O Apparel.” Janine was supportive and helpful throughout the entire process.
The future of W&O Apparel will be focused on customer service and building its customer base.
Annaās Advice: Do it with kindness. Make yourself a priority.