Spotlight: Ara Art and Design Studio
Ara Art and Design Studio, located in NW Portland, is a small boutique and studio, where owner Sanaz creates handmade fashion, accessories, and mini bags inspired by craft and culture. Each item is produced in small batches or made-to-order, mixing textiles, loom-made pieces, and hand-finished details. The studio opened its door last month and Sanaz has big plans. “I’m just at the beginning of the journey — building the foundation of the business while growing my collections. I’m taking it step by step, staying creative, and making unique pieces people can actually wear and love.”
How does Portland shape or influence your work?
Sanaz: Portland is a great fit because people here really value art, craft, and independent makers. There are a lot of big sports and activewear brands, but there’s also a strong community of artists, designers, and multicultural voices that push me to experiment and collaborate. The event culture, markets, and galleries make it easier to meet people who get what I’m building. Being here keeps me close to my brand’s goals—bringing different cultures together through craft, textiles, accessories, and one-of-a-kind pieces.
If you could go back to the beginning, what would you have done differently?
Sanaz: Maybe I would’ve looked at more locations and given myself more time instead of making a lot of decisions in just one day. But honestly, it’s not a big deal because everything I did led me to the space I wanted. The process taught me a lot, and I don’t regret it—it’s all part of the journey.
What is your favorite part about owning a small business?
Sanaz: My favorite part is the variety. As someone with ADHD, my mind is always busy, and having a small business means I’m constantly switching between tasks—designing, planning, marketing, meeting people. Sometimes it’s overwhelming, but I enjoy it because it keeps me engaged. Even before starting my own business, I would take on extra responsibilities, so running my business feels natural—it lets me channel all my energy and creativity in different directions.
What role does your community play in your business?
Sanaz: My community is really important—it’s a mix of artists, international friends, and people from the Persian and broader fashion community. They make my business stronger and help me move forward. For example, this year I had the chance to organize a whole night dedicated to Persian Fashion during Portland Fashion Week, bringing together a group of designers. That opportunity wouldn’t have happened without the connections and support I’ve built over the years.
What has been your biggest success to date?
Sanaz: For me, my biggest success was opening my boutique store in the U.S. about a month ago. But success feels like a process, not a single moment—it changes over time. It’s about the little wins, learning from mistakes, and taking steps forward. That moment felt like a big “I did it,” and it also pushed me to start thinking about my next goals. Success, for me, is really about the journey and the steps along the way.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Sanaz: As an immigrant, one of my biggest challenges was the financial side—getting loans and funding wasn’t easy because I’ve only been in the U.S. for a few years and just graduated. That put a lot of pressure on me at times. Another challenge was doing almost everything alone. It can get exhausting, and there were moments when my body just needed rest, but I felt like I had to keep going. Over time, I’ve learned it’s important to respect your own limits and take breaks when you need them.
What’s your best advice for someone who wants to start their own small business?
Sanaz: Just start. Take action, even if it’s a small step. Success isn’t always a straight line—it goes up and down, but what matters is staying constant and keeping the process going. There will be “no’s” and obstacles, but don’t let them stop you—there’s always a right opportunity at the right time. Don’t wait for perfection; there’s no perfect moment. Be patient, keep moving forward, and trust yourself. Even small, consistent efforts add up over time.
