Turning Family Tradition into a Thriving Business

In every stitch and seam, the story of SENAR Home Textiles reflects a deep-rooted love for craft, family tradition, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives local businesses forward. Founded by Narine Hovhannisyan  and her husband, Seyran Arakelyan, blends generations of textile know-how with modern small-business innovation.

At 52, Narine carries the legacy of craft passed down through her family. “My grandmothers were engaged in needlework,” she shares. “I learned from them and was fascinated by embroidery and sewing during my school years. Every summer vacation, I would stay with my grandmother in Artashat, and she would patiently teach me the wonderful art of sewing.”

That early passion was nurtured at home as well. “My mother and sister are seamstresses,” Narine recalls. “When I was in seventh or eighth grade, I would help my mother with her sewing and assist her clients. That experience gave me my first sense of responsibility and teamwork.”

Over time, that youthful interest grew into a life’s work. Alongside her husband Seyran, the team now produces a wide range of textiles — from towels and linens to shirts and eco bags — and they also repair old fabrics, giving cherished items a second life.

In March 2024, Narine took a bold step to expand their offerings into a new product line: shirts and hoodies. To make that dream a reality, she applied to FAR’s Small Business Assistance (SBA) Program, which provided the necessary machines to scale up production.

“Thanks to FAR’s support, we acquired the machines necessary to enlarge our business and start producing shirts and hoodies with quality and efficiency,” Narine says. “The assistance came at an important time — it didn’t just save time; it helped us build the capacity to create more with excellence.”

For Narine, running a business goes beyond passion — it’s about responsibility, careful planning, and understanding the market. “To start a business, you need time, investment, careful calculation, and willingness to take risks. I am going through great trials, but it’s part of growth,” she reflects.

Today, SENAR Home Textiles continues to thrive, staying true to its roots while embracing innovation. Through dedication, family teamwork, and the support of programs like FAR’s SBA, Narine and Seyran have transformed their love of craft into a sustainable business — a true testament to how tradition and entrepreneurship can go hand in hand. Their work not only creates quality textiles but also honors the values of integrity and community, exemplified by Narine returning the grant money she received from FAR.