Tail Lightz
NO DEAL
EPISODE SUMMARY
🕓 Air Date: February 3, 2012
Asking For:
$50,000 for 50%
Investor:
No Deal
Deal:
No Deal
PRODUCT SUMMARY
Tail Lightz are attachable lighted designs for jean pockets, providing a unique fashion statement for all ages.
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Background Story
Kyle Rainey, the founder of Tail Lightz, hails from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. An artist and inventor, Kyle conceived the idea out of a desire to blend fashion and functionality. Inspired by the lack of innovative fashion accessories in the market, Kyle saw an opportunity to create something unique.
His wife has been the financial backbone of their family for over a decade, enabling Kyle to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams. Determined to succeed and alleviate some of the financial burden from his wife, Kyle poured his creativity into developing Tail Lightz, aiming to introduce a trendy yet practical fashion accessory.
The Product
Tail Lightz are lighted designs that attach to the back pockets of jeans, shorts, hats, purses, or backpacks using tiny, strong magnets. With a variety of designs targeting different age groups, such as smiley faces, sports themes, and fun phrases like “Sassy Britches” and “Drama Queen,” Tail Lightz aims to appeal to a broad demographic.
Currently, in the design phase with working prototypes, Kyle seeks funding to refine the product for retail-ready packaging and mass production.Â
How It Went
The company’s position before Shark Tank
Tail Lightz is in its early stages, with prototypes developed and patents pending for the detachable lighted design and the associated fashion line called Twinkle Cheeks. Kyle, being a “Mr. Mom,” has been financially supported by his wife to pursue his entrepreneurial ventures. However, without a deal from the Sharks, Tail Lightz faces challenges in scaling up production and entering the retail market. The company lacks established partnerships or wholesalers and relies on the funding Kyle’s wife provides.
The Negotiations:
Despite Kyle’s passion and determination, none of the Sharks saw potential in Tail Lightz. Barbara expressed concerns about the product’s comfort, washability, and design appeal, ultimately opting out. Other Sharks echoed Barbara’s sentiments, citing the lack of novelty and market saturation in similar products. Despite the rejection, the Sharks encouraged Kyle not to give up, emphasizing the resilience needed in entrepreneurship. Though disappointed, Kyle left with renewed determination to persevere in his entrepreneurial journey, buoyed by the support of his wife and the Sharks’ encouragement.
