Makers leverage creativity to keep products affordable

Although they have two completely different niches and separate businesses, Tara Conley and Megan Odson have this in common: The products they wanted were not on the market, and as entrepreneurs, they set out to fix that.

Along the way, they also realized that their creativity could be used to bring affordability to a market that often competes with major retailers and online vendors.

For Conley, a teacher at Whittier Middle School, a desire for affordable jewelry led to the start of her business. After making jewelry for herself, the business — Tara Beth Creations — quickly came after.

Odson couldn’t find dog bandannas that fit her 120-pound dog, Gucci Mane, so she set out to fix that problem. The Dog Mom Society formed after Odson discovered how many pet owners want products for their pets without breaking the bank.

These two creators may have completely different items, but they have the same mission: to provide unique products that still remain affordable — because they understand what it’s like to have a budget.

Both makers will be at the 605 Made Night Market from 3 to 9 p.m. Saturday in the Raven parking lot on the southeast corner of  Sixth Street and Phillips Avenue.

Affordable gifts for teachers

Conley started making jewelry as a hobby two years ago. She began selling a few of her items and discovered how popular polymer clay earrings were among teachers.

“I started making so many earrings as the sales went well,” Conley said. “Everything I make is one of a kind — I don’t make duplicates or the same design twice. If I did the same design over and over, it would feel repetitive.”

Conley and her husband recently moved here from Kentucky, and she said she is excited to get more connected to the area.

Although cost and inflation do affect her work, Conley said she keeps her prices marked on the lower end.

“As a teacher, I relate to not wanting to break the budget.”

A huge clay shortage has affected the creation of new designs lately, so she has come up with other items to sell.

Tara Beth Creations sells polymer and metal earrings, necklaces, rings, glass cups and hair clips.

Conley said her items are for anyone, but she does try to target teachers or gifts for educators.

Price-conscious pet owners

Odson brought her products to the 605 Made Night Market for the first time last year.

“It was bigger venture and so much fun,” Odson said. “I loved the diversity of having it at night. I love when it starts to get darker, they turn lights on in the booths. It’s a good vibe and mood change; it’s so cozy.”

The Dog Mom Society creates pet bandannas, scrunchies, keychains and poo-bag holders. “Anything pet related … I just figure out how I can make it,” she said.

Odson said she started with pet bandannas but has branched into a variety of customized pet-related things.

“I thoroughly love making the products, so it’s a win-win. I thrive in knowing my products are affordable.”

Odson said that as a pet owner, if she wouldn’t purchase her products at her prices, “why would I want others to?” She added it’s important to her that all products are priced the same regardless of the size of the pet.

“As a large-dog owner, products typically cost more than smaller dogs, but I don’t agree with that mentality. Whether you buy an XS or XL pet bandanna, they’re $7.”

The 605 Made Night Market will feature vendors for all shoppers’ budgets and tastes. It’s co-organized by Knotty Gnome Variety & Salvage and Pigeon605 sister site SiouxFalls.Business. It’s sponsored by The First National Bank of Sioux Falls and Pomegranate Market. For a complete vendor guide, click below.

Here’s your guide to shopping, food, entertainment at Saturday’s 605 Made Night Market