Today we’d like to introduce you to Betsy Oei.
Hi Betsy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I have always been a pet owner and have wanted to work with pets for as long as I can remember. I opened one of the first dog daycares in the country in Arizona in 2002 and absolutely loved it! But we had to sell it and move across the country after having our first human child.
After raising 3 children and moving several times, I finally had the opportunity to own a pet business again. I decided to open a small boutique in downtown Smyrna. After a few months I also just had the opportunity to move around the corner to a bigger shop with more potential!
I try to mostly sell products from local entrepreneurs, small businesses, and earth-friendly vendors. I also try to be as involved in the community as much as possible through adoption events, helping match families with pups, and by being a local drop off site for pet food and supplies to help families that may be struggling with finances.
My kids both help out at the shop and on weekends you’ll most likely see my husband as well!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
For about 20 years I dreamed and planned what my shop would be and how it would work. But putting all those plans into action has not been easy. We are self-financed and determined to make the store a success financially and as a valued member of the downtown Smyrna community.
Our first location took a bit longer than anticipated to open and there were some unexpected expenses that made me question myself every month. However in our new location we have been able to expand our product line, add food, supplements, and a much bigger cat section! We are also able to offer things like dog parties, training, and local pop up events.
My shop has great potential so I only try to think of the possibilities now.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am the sole owner of Lickers & Whines, a pet boutique and community centered store in the Smyrna Market Village. I offer customers a place to find unique, handmade toys, treats, and accessories for their dogs and cats. Every item we sell is hand selected by me and I have a personal relationship with almost every vendor.
I specialize in kindness, love, and celebration of our animals, who deserve all the love in the world. I hope that every customer feels welcome, special, and seen – humans and pets. I love to see pictures and hear stories about pets. If I could I would spend all day with every dog and cat that comes here! I am proud that I was able to put together a place where people and animals can meet, play, learn, and shop. I have a designated room for hanging out, meeting new friends, relaxing, and enjoying food and drinks from around the Market Village. I am also proud that I have gotten to meet and befriend so many local artists and customers. I love being in the midst of the fun!
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I moved here from Northern New Jersey in 2024 and had no expectations for such a vibrant and active community! All over the Atlanta metro there is always something going on where dogs are welcome, people are friendly, and diversity is celebrated. I had no idea that Atlanta would be somewhere I’d feel at home so quickly.
What I like least about the city is that it is so dependent on cars and therefore just really hard to go outside your neighborhood without the threat of major traffic delays. I also cannot stand that hardly anyone uses turn signals! If you’re going to cut me off at least let me know as you’re doing it!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lickersandwhines.com
- Instagram: lickers_whines
- Facebook: Lickers and Whines
