Hi there!  My name is Summer Horton, and I’m the owner and operator of Beluga Buttonworks.  I’m really glad you’re here!  

As a person with a disability, I’ve struggled to find, gain, and keep employment that was a good fit for my talents and my needs.  My independence is hugely important to me, and finding a way to support myself financially has long been one of the most difficult obstacles for me to find a way around.

Shortly before Christmas 2012 I ran across a video online of a young man hand-pressing pinback buttons in a button machine.  He has a business selling the buttons he makes.  At first I was simply fascinated by the buttonmaking process.  I have always loved pinback buttons, and their feeling of fun and self-expression.  But as I read more about the process, and this young man’s business, I began to wonder – could owning my own buttonmaking business be a good fit for me?

It turns out it is!  I love every step of the buttonmaking process.  From creating new designs, to hand-pressing each button, to helping my customers find exactly what will fit their needs, I love it all.  But the best part is that through Beluga Buttonworks I am able to work, to contribute to my community, and to improve my independence.  I am very proud of that.

When I’m not working, I like to spend time with my dogs, listen to books, participate in Special Olympics, write, and hang out with my family and friends.

I would like to say a special thank you to my mom, the people at Vocational Rehabilitation, and every person who purchases Beluga Buttonworks buttons.  Your support has made, and continues to make, all the difference.