Kane & Couture Founder Amber Lee Forrester Dives into the "Shark Tank"

Top Quote Former Mission 50 Workspaces Member Featured on Hit Reality Show. End Quote
  • Jersey City, NJ (1888PressRelease) November 13, 2013 - An idea born from a love of dogs has evolved into an entrepreneurial venture that landed Amber Lee Forrester a spot on a recent episode of ABC's "Shark Tank." On the business-themed reality show, Forrester attempted to enlist five wealthy investors - the "Sharks" - to invest in Kane & Couture, an edgy brand of collars, harnesses, leashes, apparel and accessories for dogs.

    The hit TV show places budding entrepreneurs in front of a panel of established entrepreneurs and business executives who consider each presenter's business or product for potential investment. During her appearance on the show, Forrester requested $150,000 from the investors in exchange for 33 percent of her company. Two of the show's "Sharks," Lori Greiner and Daymond John, made a deal to purchase 40 percent of Kane & Couture for the $150,000.

    Forrester established Kane & Couture from her home in 2008. She grew the company as a member of Mission 50 Workspaces in Hoboken, N.J. Located in the penthouse of the multi-tenanted, 80,000-square-foot Hoboken Business Center, Mission 50 is a shared work environment for independent professionals, entrepreneurs and small businesses. "I couldn't be more proud of Amber," said Greg Dell'Aquila, president of Mission 50. "Her success is truly an ideal representation of what Mission 50 is all about, and confirms that we are attracting some of the most talented entrepreneurs and innovators in the area."

    Forrester's "Shark Tank" appearance has dramatically accelerated the growth of Kane & Couture, now based in Manhattan. "Within weeks of the episode airing, 60,000 new people visited my website, I received hundreds of new orders and have even been able to hire a small team of employees. Overall as a small business without a lot of resources, that is probably what has changed the most. I now have people and companies contacting me with all kinds of great opportunities," said Forrester.

    Like many entrepreneurs, Forrester attained business success doing something she loves. "I love my dog and fashion, and Kane & Couture allows me to express my style and creativity. Although I had no prior experience in product-based marketing, membership at Mission 50 gave me a work environment where I was surrounded by other entrepreneurs who inspired me every day. It was a real breeding ground for creativity."

    In the future, Forrester hopes to partner with major retailers to make Kane & Couture a household name for pet owners who love fabulous fashion finds for their dogs. "I also plan to offer more dog-themed products for pet owners, such as handbags and other gift items. There are not many brands that immediately come to mind in regard to high-end fashion for dogs. I want Kane & Couture to become that brand."

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