About Us
Modern Companion is known for our handmade pet accessories, thoughtfully crafted with love for both you and your pet. But we’re more than just accessories—we want to be your BFF for all things pet-related. From advice and inspiration to discovering innovative products, we’re here to make pet parenting easier, more exciting, and always stylish.
Our mission has always been to empower modern pet parents through trendsetting products, engaging events, and a strong sense of community. Over the years, we’ve grown beyond creating beautiful accessories to becoming a trusted source for pet parents seeking meaningful connections in a supportive judgement-free community.
Modern Companion began in 2019, founded by, Maddie Shutts—a passionate pet mom with a background in design. Frustrated by the lack of stylish pet products that reflected her pets’ unique personalities, she set out to create accessories that balanced beauty and functionality. At the time, she was juggling a full-time career as a UX designer and pursuing an MBA, but her love for pets and design inspired her to launch Modern Companion as a passion project. What started as a small online shop in her spare time quickly grew into something much bigger.
In 2020, we took a major step forward by collaborating with small business illustrators to develop exclusive patterns that reflected our vision and values. We also partnered with talented local seamstresses to handcraft each accessory with care and precision. This dedication to quality and creativity caught the attention of pet parents everywhere, and we soon expanded our accessories into retail stores across the country. Many of our exclusive designs have been featured in over 90 independent boutiques and even in major retailers like Nordstrom.
By 2021, we opened our first brick-and-mortar store in Chapin, SC—a space where Modern Companion could truly come to life. We were able to expand into the world of curation and are proud to feature over 50 carefully selected brands in addition to our own handmade items. We personally test every product we carry to ensure it meets our high standards for quality, functionality, or style. Many of the brands we partner with are small business owners themselves, just like us, and we’re proud to build close relationships with them, collaborating to bring you products that enrich you and your pet’s life.
In 2024, we launched the Modern Companion Subscription Box, giving pet parents a new way to experience exclusive products that aren’t yet available in our store. Each box is thoughtfully curated offering modern pet parents a chance to discover innovative and practical items for their pets. The subscription box also invites our community to be part of the curation process by testing new products and sharing feedback, helping us decide what to bring into the store. It’s another way we stay connected to our community, bringing the Modern Companion experience directly to your doorstep.
That same year, we launched the Modern Companion Podcast as an extension of our mission to empower pet parents. Through conversations with our community members, behind-the-scenes insights into Modern Companion, and discussions with the brands we love and trust, the podcast explores topics that matter to us. From products to inspiring stories, it’s another way we connect with our community.
While you’re matching with your furry friend in our signature products, we want you to trust us for everything else, too. From exploring the latest trends we aim to make every moment of pet parenting easier and more rewarding. Because for us, being a pet parent isn’t just about the products—it’s about the memories, the experiences, and the connections we build along the way.
At Modern Companion, we’re here to help you and your pet live your best lives together. Whether it’s discovering new products, attending a community event, exploring our subscription box, or tuning into the Modern Companion Podcast, we’re proud to be part of your journey as a pet parent. Recognized as one of "America's Coolest" pet businesses by PETS+ in 2022, we’re honored to be a trusted partner for pet parents everywhere. We’re redefining what it means to be a modern pet parent—one thoughtful accessory, inspiring conversation, and innovative idea at a time.