With more than 15 years of experience on the retail and manufacturing side of the pet industry, Jess realized that there was a void in the area of pet nutrition and gut health. As a devout dog lover herself, she founded Bundle x Joy and paved a new path for high-quality dog food. In addition to making healthier, grain-free kibbles, Bundle x Joy crafts superfood-infused treats, doggie supplements, and dog-mom merch.
This female-founded company also gives back by donating 3% of proceeds to women’s entrepreneurship and local communities.
Recently, we caught up with Jess to learn more about her journey and hear her advice for fellow entrepreneurs.
1. Why did you start Bundle x Joy?
As a passionate dog mom, I struggled to find gut-friendly nutrition for my sensitive pup Winston. I started Bundle x Joy to bring joy to every dog person, unleashing a happier gut for your pup across food, treats, and supplements. We bundle gut-friendly ingredients like prebiotics, probiotics, responsibly sourced proteins, and superfood ingredients into every bite so that you can spend more time chasing joy together. After 15 years of working for other pet brands and retailers, I decided it was time to take the leap and launch the pet brand I wish existed, with joy at the center. We’re proudly building a community of real pet people and giving back 3% of sales to help fund women in entrepreneurship and our local communities. It’s so much more than just pet food.
2. What obstacles did you face along the way?
I knew we had an uphill battle ahead of us having to compete against mega pet brands in the space. We’ve had to hustle for every opportunity, building an amazing community of pet people who have cheered us on for every step of our journey so far. We’ve had to find new ways to share our story in a real and authentic way, hoping to inspire others along the way.
3. What lessons do you have for other entrepreneurs?
For years I dreamed of having my own pet brand, but struggled to believe it was possible because I did not see founders like me in the space. My biggest piece of advice is to stop doubting yourself and instead start believing that you can do anything you dream of when you chase your unique passions and purpose. You may just be exactly what the world needs…listen to your heart and go for it!
4. What’s on the horizon for Bundle x Joy?
I’m so excited for more people to get to know us this year as we launch into new stores like Bristol Farms. As a small, Latina-founded business, every new shelf means SO much to us, and we are even more excited for the pups that will have better gut health options to choose from.
5. How do you keep work/life balance? What drives/inspires you?
I’m driven by my passion to bring joy back to the pet aisle, while also unleashing a happier gut for pups. When I come home at the end of each day, my Great Dane pups Luna and Sol remind me why I started. To be honest, complete balance between work and life is a bit of a myth, especially as we build Bundle x Joy. It’s more like a constant balancing act that requires us to be gracious with ourselves and others, as we pursue multiple passions and priorities each day. Don’t get caught up with the idea that you can “do it all.” Instead, find ways that you can prioritize the things that bring you joy, remove the distractions, and chase after your dreams with everything you have. The world needs you and all that you uniquely bring to the universe!
- Tags
- Meet the Founder Pets