Meet Judy Reesha | Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Judy Reesha and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Judy, how do you think about risk?

I don’t consider myself a risk-taker, but I do think I’m brave. I’m willing to put myself out there and have become better at seeing missteps and frustrations as part of my growth. Uncertainty is easier when you know you’ll bounce back.

The trajectory of my life and career didn’t involve any recklessness. I’m not a rule-breaker, didn’t have a rebellious phase, actually sort of fantasized about what that could mean for me later in life!  I guess when the opportunity presented itself to buy the shop/salon I just followed my heart and instincts. I was actually told by one advisor that it didn’t make intellectual or financial sense, but I had already fallen in love with the idea, so -too late!

“And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight in a bud was greater than the risk it took to blossom. “ Anais Nin

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

Cool, I have fans!   When I first took-over Button Nose I re-designed the logo but with similar dog and cat mascots. I also included “grooming – goodies – gallery” underneath. For now it’s just “Button Nose Grooming & Pet Supplies” but supporting local creatives is a priority. I’m looking to sell and consign more unique, handmade, pet-related products and artistic items.

I’ve got these projects myself, just not a lot of time to focus on them yet.  My art and off-the-wall crafts remind me that I have something to offer nobody else does – if it feels weird or different, maybe that’s even better.

The black & white photography on the shop walls are my work, from when I was dog-sitting and boarding as “Judy’s Bed and Barkfast.” And Instagram has been a great diversion. Now it’s a way to show our pet loving community the amazing work our groomers do, our happy customers, and the boutique/ store side.

Needless to say, working with dogs & cats is something I love. It’s a heavy responsibility but really such an honor – We all know these are important, beloved family members. It’s just so rewarding to make a difference in their lives.

This is a good time to mention I’m looking for a manager.  I have a phenomenal staff – a knowledgeable, skilled team I’m proud of – but no partner. Being a single mom in addition to a business owner has been challenging. My daughter is 14 and we have our silly mutt, Mojo. And a tiny rescued kitten of our own now too. Anyway, it would be nice if I had someone experienced in the industry and with a real good head for business to help out.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

A day in Catalina or Balboa Island…

Santa Monica and Annenberg Beach would be fun …

Close to home: the Wild Oak Cafe for a breakfast bowl and avocado toast;  a day in La Cañada -Descanso and hiking Switzer Falls or exploring the Old Zoo.  Maybe go to Golden Road Brewery where we can have our dogs outside with us too.

I’ve been wanting to go back to Little Tokyo for more SomiSomi soft serve.

Sushi of course…

Watts Towers…

Skirball Museum and/or the Getty

And my parent’s house in Valencia for low country boil.

Also The Mercado La Paloma in South LA where you’re supporting a community revitalization project. We would have to buy something at the Piece by Piece shop; Piece by Piece is a non-profit that teaches those vulnerable to homelessness the skill of making mosaic art. I volunteered with them for awhile and would again in a second.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Yes, Shoutout to my hard-working sister who has been a huge inspiration. Although our career paths have been completely different, her ability to lead a team, her resilience, strength, and dedication – day after day, and into the night – constantly amaze and embolden me.

Website: buttonnosepetshop.com

Instagram: @buttonnosepetshop

Facebook: Button Nose Pet Supply Shop

Yelp: Button Nose Pet Shop

Other: We are most active on Instagram. We love to post photos of the Button Nose dogs. Please follow us!