Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Downs.
Hi Amber, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In December 2019 I rescued a six-month-old Goldendoodle, Ruby. Our first dog quickly became the world to my husband and me. Fast forward to spring 2020 when the pandemic hit. We were staying home and staying safe but also wanted to do all we could to connect with and support local businesses. I had been posting daily on my Instagram account about ways to support local businesses in this time and start sharing more and more pet-related local businesses. I soon realized that a great way to focus on content would be to share dog-friendly places in town. @orlandoodle was born! We started with great ways to social distance with your dogs like parks and places to go for hikes. We then started sharing restaurants and shops that had dog-friendly options. We also made a focus to share small businesses that sell dog-related items.
With @Orlandoodle the goal isn’t just cute photos of my dog. My hope is that the account with bringing dog owners out with their pup to support our community and enjoy the outdoors (and sometimes indoors) with their pup.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As with everything 2020 and 2021 have not been easy. We have all been stressed. Although at times I did not have the energy to post as often as I’d like, having the Instagram account helped me get out there and explore Orlando with Ruby which has led to some great memories. She has only been with us for a little over a year and a half, but I cannot imagine a world without her.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
With @orlandoodle my goal is to get dog owners out in the world with their pups while supporting our local businesses here in Central Florida. My heart is so happy every time someone DMs me and tells me about how because of our account they have discovered a new favorite local spot or have gone on an adventure with their pup. While these wins are usually quietly shared over DM, that is what keeps me doing what I do.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Instagram.com/orlandoodle
