carolCarol Ogg got thrown a curve ball a few years back when her corporate healthcare job up and moved to Europe. Faced with the dilemma of moving to Switzerland vs. remaining stateside (and near her daughter, Lauren) Carol chose to stay “home” and start not one but two businesses! A licensed pharmacist, she has enjoyed a long career working in the area of genetic diseases so decided to strike out on her own and start a specialized  healthcare consulting practice. And guess what? She never looked back. In addition to her “day job,” Carol chose to share her passion for knitting with folks around the world by creating Colorful Crowns, a beautiful collection of handmade baby hats for new humans. Consultant by day, knitter by night, this newbie entrepreneur has discovered that “doing what you love is the best recipe for success.”

A Conversation with Carol Ogg

What inspired you to start your business?
Having a passion for knitting and creating has always been a love. Corporate America threw me a curve ball in 2010 and as a result, Colorful Crowns was “born.”

How long have you been knitting?
Could it really be over 40 years? I’ve seen knitting come and go, and go in and out of vogue. Everyone seems to be knitting these days.

Do you use a particular type of yarn?
I’m really picky about yarn and only use 100% cotton for my baby hats. While it’s not as forgiving as other yarns, the outcome with all cotton is so beautiful.

With your hectic work and travel schedule, what attracts you to knitting?
Conference calls! Seriously, while I juggle a busy schedule I can multitask and knit on any conference call. Knitting has such a calming effect and even keeps me guilt free when I sit and watch HGTV. 🙂

How do you come up with your patterns?
I usually come up with a new pattern every year and the most recent has been a series of hand-embroidered farm animals. My absolute favorite is the little black sheep – now featured on CerakkoFarm.com!

What advice would you give other folks interested in turning their talent into a small business?
Who likes to write a business plan? Me neither! However, it’s essential if you want to take a hard look at your strengths and weaknesses. So “Just do it!” I say. It’s so rewarding having my phone light up when another baby hat is needed.

What’s the furthest distance you’ve shipped a “Crown” to a customer?
I had a good run in Australia for awhile and that certainly takes the “crown.” Would love to sell a Colorful Crown in all 50 states. (Come on, Montana and New Mexico!)

Anything else we should know?
Well, only that I’m proud of how we give back – each year we make a donation to the Georgia Chapter of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, which I’m so passionate about.

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