Getting to Know Us... Ann Baertsch
TSG Boise member Ann Baertsch, owner of Fire Aunt Studios, creates beautiful, one-of-a-kind scarves, wraps, and other clothing items. Her design and creativity are so unique and every scarf has its own charm. Much like her scarves, Ann has a great deal of charm, herself. In this segment of “Getting to Know Us,” we can understand the creativity behind her work.
What inspired you to start your own business?
I officially started my shop in 2013, but I started dyeing in 2000. I had made a batch of scarves for a local business. I sold a quite a few through family and friends, but then the holidays were over and I still had quite a few left. Unlike other Etsy shop owners, I opened my shop completely on a whim. I just wanted to sell the scarves I had. I had no idea how it would take off. I was uninformed and naive, but have learned so much, and am happy that, for once in my life, I acted on impulse.
What 3 words would you use to describe your business?
Creative, fun, free-spirited
What are 3 things still on your bucket list?
I'd love to see the northern lights, I've never seen really big ocean waves, and I'd love to live abroad at some point. And I'm going to take the liberty of adding a fourth thing: I've always felt in my heart that someday I would focus my animal rescue efforts on senior pets, and final refuge adoptions.
Words to live by?
Be true to yourself. If anyone rejects you for that, they're not your tribe anyway.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
A teacher (but only because I loved the big desk and all the office supplies). A flight attendant. A spelunker. A cop. I even went through a phase (much to my oh-so-proper mother's chagrin) of wanting to be a long haul truck driver.
What’s your favorite thing about Boise and the Treasure Valley?
There's so much to love! I love all the local eateries and makers who are flourishing. As a volunteer and former employee of the Idaho Humane Society, I especially love our community of pet adopters. It's very heartwarming to know that Treasure Valley residents understand the importance of rescue.
What is your favorite vacation destination?
There are so many places yet to see in the world, I could never choose one! I will say I did feel a very special connection with southwest England. I felt like I was home. I left a piece of my heart there.
On a scale of 1 to 10, how funny are you?
That depends who you ask! I think I'm hilarious, and my friends seem to, too. My husband, however, can only be described as tolerant.
Click here to see Ann’s work at Fire Aunt Studios!
Tell them Scout sent you!
~ Allie