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Daily Inspiration: Meet Erica Messer

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Messer

Hi Erica, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Erica Messer is a harpist, author, and entrepreneur dedicated to supporting those experiencing pet loss. As the founder of Wolfie’s Wish, she created award-winning pet loss affirmation cards and grief support resources, helping pet parents navigate their loss with comfort and understanding. A certified bereavement specialist and international speaker, Erica has trained veterinarians, corporations, and small businesses on compassionate care.

Beyond her work in pet loss support, Erica is an accomplished harpist, performing at major events and conferences. She was selected to accompany Jenny Slate’s book tour on the harp, blending music with storytelling. Passionate about creating healing experiences, Erica’s work continues to inspire and support both grieving pet parents and audiences who find solace in her music.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My entrepreneurial journey has been marked by both passion and resilience, but it hasn’t been without significant challenges.

Financial Risk & Investment – I invested all of my life savings into Wolfie’s Wish, demonstrating my deep belief in the mission but also placing immense financial pressure on myself.
Health Concerns – While building my businesses, I have also had to navigate breast health issues, adding stress and uncertainty to an already demanding path.

Market Awareness & Education – Pet loss grief support is still an emerging field, meaning I have had to work hard to educate both consumers and businesses on the importance of emotional support tools for grieving pet parents.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m Erica Messer, a harpist, author, and entrepreneur dedicated to helping people navigate the grief of losing a beloved pet. I founded Wolfie’s Wish, a company that provides emotional support tools for grieving pet parents, including my award-winning pet loss affirmation cards. My mission is to bring comfort and healing to those experiencing pet loss, and I’ve been honored to train veterinarians, corporations, and small businesses on compassionate grief support.

Beyond my work in pet loss, I’m also an accomplished harpist. I’ve performed at major events, including Jenny Slate’s book tour, blending music with storytelling to create meaningful experiences. Playing the harp allows me to connect with people on a deep, emotional level, whether it’s through memorial services, weddings, or special events.

What sets me apart is my ability to combine art, entrepreneurship, and healing. I don’t just create products—I build meaningful experiences that help people feel seen and supported. Whether it’s through music, writing, or innovative grief support tools, I want to make a real difference in people’s lives.

One of the things I’m most proud of is bringing the first-ever pet loss product to QVC, proving that grief support belongs in the mainstream conversation. I’ve also get the privilege of competing for Best New Startup on The Blox, where I will showcase the impact of Wolfie’s Wish on pet parents worldwide.

At the heart of everything I do is a deep passion for connection and healing. Whether through my harp, my writing, or my products, I strive to bring comfort and joy to people who need it most.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I was very aloof and unmotivated, actually. Nothing really interested me except art and music. I always wanted to do sports or dance, but I was really bad at them.

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