Nick and Kimber, the mother and father team behind littlesaplingtoys, have managed to quit both their regular day jobs and support themselves, along with their two children, due to their business success on Etsy. They’ve been selling their wooden toys on Etsy for just under two years. With previous careers in historical preservation and insurance companies, both Nick and Kimber took their time planning and saving for their transition into a full-time small business. Read on to hear their answers to our Quit Your Day Job questions — they talk about the steps they took to plan out their venture and which marketing tips have worked best for their business along the way.
How did you originally get into the business of making things?
Nick: It began as an innocent obsession with Lego bricks. I loved building anything my imagination came up with. As I got older, things evolved with me. It wasn’t until I worked at a woodworking store that I really came to see the beauty of wood. I love every piece of wood: the way the grain flows, the color, the way that it transforms when it’s finished. My first woodworking project was a 2’ x 2’ butcher block for our second anniversary. I never get sick of looking at and refinishing it.
Kimber: For me, true creative delight is in my mind. I love ideas, brainstorming, scribbling, discussing and sketching with a batch of stove-top popcorn. As a child, I collaborated with my lil’ brother to design a computer game that my dad agreed to program. I wrote a song with a friend consisting of the lyrics “Oh Baby” and dreamed about the day it would hit the radio. I started a business from my Trapper Keeper observing my peers on the playground and then selling the information I collected. I made Clarissa Explains It All inspired jewelry and sold it at my mom’s craft show tables. I collected flowers and berries to crush on a cement barrier to make perfume. I wrote for my high school and junior college paper, selling my personal humiliation for laughs. I’ve taken on baking, sewing, gardening, woodworking, and countless other endeavors because I love a good idea.
When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?
We were living above a chocolate shop in Old Town Eureka, CA while Nick worked for Crestmark Architectural Millwork and studied Historical Preservation and Restoration. I decided to go to school after Rex was born instead of returning to the insurance office where I previously worked. Everything changed when we received an invitation to caretake a house with a shop for two years. During that time we each attended school, started Little Sapling Toys, had a second baby and finally moved to a different state. Everything happened so fast that it’s hard to remember just what we expected. Our goal was for Little Sapling Toys to be successful, but we didn’t expect Etsy to be the sole reason for making it so.
Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?
The most important things we did:
- Economize — We projected our income and started to live on that amount. This helped us to save a bit of money for the initial jump. Our budget is limited and we assess wants and needs thoroughly.
- Trial — On days off from school and the office, we worked full-time schedules to test our capabilities. It’s important to know your production potential. This helped us to see if our plans would be sustainable and to streamline processes.
- Education — We took all of the free classes at the local Small Business Development Center and were then eligible to use their free one-on-one counseling services. We traded with other Etsy sellers to form relationships and gain mentors. Most of our schooling has been through trial, error and success.
- Legalize — We got all of the licenses, permits, identifications and insurance that we needed, and then again when we relocated. It can all be a big pain, but necessary and helpful.
What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What’s your best marketing tip?
Nick: My goal is to get Little Sapling Toys to as many people as possible because they really speak for themselves.
Kimber: Sales usually increase when we list new designs. I relist often, try different photos and let Etsy do most of the dirty work. I keep multiple quantities in the listings so that when we are featured on Etsy it is visible longer. We occasionally offer free shipping on our lighter items and had great fortune when we were featured in Etsy’s Weekend Deals. We’ve just started a new blog, which is still in its experimental phase. On Twitter (@sparetimeflies) and our Facebook fan page, I share daily tips for play, parenting, and child development.
What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?
Nick: Christmas ornaments. They took a lot of time and we only sold one of each (to Kimber’s mom — thanks, Lori!). It seemed like such a good idea, miniature Little Sapling Toys for baby’s first Christmas, who wouldn’t want that?
Kimber: We don’t get many direct sales from sponsoring blog reviews, giveaways and fundraisers, but I still agree to do them once in a while. At first, we peddled our toys directly to shops in person and left a lot of samples. We wasted a lot of time and money. With Etsy, we can just wait for them to contact us.
Walk us through your typical workday.
- Nick: Our days are hardly typical, but they usually have some similar elements: Snuggle and playtime with family, shop time, audiobooks, putting the kids down for naps, eating, USPS (by bike when we’re on schedule), and lots and lots of sawdust.
- Kimber: We wake and immediately begin to juggle eating oatmeal, answering convos, emails, children’s bodily functions, the shop list, Facebook, Twitter, personal hygiene and the like. If we’re not too swamped and the weather is agreeable, we’ll take a family bike ride along the greenbelt. Rex and Daphne time until lunch. Eat together and naps for the little ‘uns. Convos, shipping labels, packaging, photos, emails, phone calls, bookkeeping and designing toys until Rex, the ball of energy, zooms back into action. Juggle work, Rex, Daphne, dinner, the inevitable phone call and household tasks. Dinner together, play together, kids in bed, Nick back to the shop and work until exhaustion takes me. Sunday we rest.
What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
Nick: Even though I work 10+ hours a day, I love that it’s flexible. I love that my commute is 34 steps from the front door to the garage/shop. Mostly, I love all the time I spend with my family. The last few day jobs I had were great though, a woodworking store and then as a cabinetmaker. I miss those co-workers and am grateful for what I learned there.
Kimber: I love to design new toys! I wish they could be manufactured right out of my brain. I’m addicted to the pride of a job well done. We love books but have little time for reading, so we’re nearly always listening to audiobooks. There is absolutely nothing I miss about an office, but I would prefer to spend every moment completely focused on Rex and Daphne.
What’s the hardest part about running your own business?
Nick: I have a hard time always being innovative, keeping myself out of a rut, and from falling back on the same old things. All the menial everyday tasks also wear me down.
Kimber: A dissatisfied customer! With all the energy that we put into everything we do, it is just miserable to find out someone was disappointed.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?
Start bookkeeping with your first dollar. Listen to input. Always get delivery confirmation. Accept help from friends and family. Hire help when needed. Carefully price products, especially if you plan to wholesale. Step back from day-to-day tasks to look at the big picture. Organize while things are manageable. Go to your local Small Business Development Center.
What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?
Our goals include our own website, new developmental toys, a more efficient shipping system and to have a small inventory. We’re also opening an interesting little shop at cabbageandpopcorn!
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Nick: Thank you to my parents for your support and frequent purchases. Thank you to all our customers, I love to hear about your children playing with our toys and see pictures of your babies drooling on our teethers.
Kimber: A big hug to our past and future customers! A high five to every friend and family member who has helped this year. Thumbs up to bloggers for spreading the word. I’ll give a few more thanks by way of links:
Our logo and subsequent branding: 622press, Elle was there at the very beginning: latestendeavor, our first Etsy mentor: thosegreathousewomen, and most of all my dad, who does beautiful woodwork with our block scraps: dapperscrapper.
Thanks to Nick and Kimber for sharing their story. Have your own questions to ask? Come on by and chat with them Wednesday, September 9 at 5 p.m. ET in Etsy’s Virtual Labs.
You can see some of Nick and Kimber’s beautiful work in the Related Items. Check out previous Quit Your Day Job posts here.
219 comments
Sign in to add your ownnobletownvintage says:
This is such a great article on such a sweet couple. I love these.
2 years ago
JellyfishJunk says:
This is an inspiring interview!
2 years ago
ColorfulTherapy says:
Absolutely AWESOME article !! You have an amazingly beautiful shop & lovely family -- it truly seems like happy days ;)
2 years ago
blackbirdtees says:
I love it! These stories are always so heartening. They remind me that it's a process for everyone, filled with ups and downs. Keep on keepin' on, little saplings!
2 years ago
sandali says:
Wonderful shop with such fun & trigger happy items -- I LOVE it !!!
2 years ago
shopgeorgiamiss says:
Thanks for sharing your wonderful story!!
2 years ago
yeahhello says:
The bookkeeping advice is golden...
2 years ago
thebestvintage says:
Great story... Thanks!
2 years ago
RussianDollDesigns says:
I love these wooden toys!
2 years ago
IcingOnTheCupcake says:
Great store, story and helpful tips! Thanks so much for sharing!
2 years ago
mafemaria says:
The interviews on this series usually make me jealous, but you guys are beautiful. And your products look wonderful. Well deserved if you've made it work to make a living! Gotta go check you out, buy a couple of beautiful toys for my tiny terror...
2 years ago
laurabrownart says:
you guys and your toys are adorable! thanks for the reminder to ask for help from other etsy sellers when needed--i mostly just pretend i don't need help, but i really could use some, but it's hard to ask!
2 years ago
VixVintage says:
Thanks so much for sharing, your story is inspiring.
2 years ago
SewnNatural says:
yay! for a fantastic shop run by a fantastic family. and their handmade goodies are so natural, so beautiful. thanks for the insight.
2 years ago
georgiedesigns says:
Great story. Off to go buy my 5-month-old something wonderful to drool on. :)
2 years ago
inkblok says:
Thank you for your great story and advice. Such gorgeous wooden products that look so smooth and shiny and wonderful to hold!
2 years ago
KCathy says:
Your comments about giveaways not being the biggest business boosters makes me especially grateful that you agreed to do mine--thank you! And facebookers, search for The Great Baby Bottom Raffle to see how kind the owners were in trading a gift certificate for advertising. :-) You guys rock!
2 years ago
SudsNSuch says:
Such great toys! Congrats on your success!
2 years ago
janicej says:
Thanks for sharing! A really interesting read.
2 years ago
TheCottageCheese says:
What a sweet family! Kimber's childhood business built on watching her peers on the playground is hilarious. Good luck to you two, your shop is just full of beautiful, natural items!
2 years ago
workingforpeanuts says:
Nice job! Happy for your success.
2 years ago
angeldogdesigns says:
what an inspirational family...i love reading posts like this = true happiness ♥
2 years ago
BeadinBabe says:
Such an inspiration!! Thank you for sharing your story! :)
2 years ago
LoveandDream says:
I love your works and story!
2 years ago
delightdesignbiz says:
LOVE this one - I'm so inspired (and a tiny bit jealous - I want my husband home working with me!) :-)
2 years ago
paramountvintage says:
such a great article! and the toys are AMAZING!!!
2 years ago
FrillyButts says:
Thank you for sharing. Great shop, I love wooden toys. Kimber, I love that you sold Clarissa Explains It All jewelry. I used to love that show.
2 years ago
SurrenderDorothy says:
What a dear lovely family! Great feature!
2 years ago
Tias says:
I love woodwork and their inspiring story. Well done guys!
2 years ago
revelry says:
I absolutely love these articles. And this one was particularly interesting. Thanks for sharing so much! It's so inspiring to hear about the success of others. Good luck to you! You have awesome things in your shop!
2 years ago
derinmavi says:
Lovely story with lovely photos!
2 years ago
moonovermaize says:
What a beautiful story and family! Very inspiring!
2 years ago
Fairyfolk says:
What an adorable, inspirational family!!!!! Blessings and magic.
2 years ago
imfromthewoods says:
this is amazing. I LOVE YOUR PRODUCTS. they make me wanna buy a teether toy to chew on! wonderfully organic and satisfying. hugs to you!
2 years ago
ThePaperTray says:
Very inspiring! great prodcuts!
2 years ago
danielabesso says:
I love this story, well done lovely family
2 years ago
katsummers says:
An inspiring article....wonderful!
2 years ago
UptownAvenue says:
What great toys they make
2 years ago
thelittlecrocodile says:
So beautiful and inspiring!
2 years ago
EJPcreations says:
Amazing Story!
2 years ago
lovelygifts says:
Great article! Very inspiring and great toys!
2 years ago
PeacefulElements says:
Thanks for being real and truly inspiring! Namaste
2 years ago
recycledwares says:
how darling. what great gift ideas for my next baby shower.
2 years ago
beachhouseblues says:
What great products you make!
2 years ago
HarrietsHaven says:
Fantastic shop...I'll have to check out some new toys for my little ones! I love to see a combined effort between husband and wife. I so very wish the same could happen for my husband and me! Congrats!
2 years ago
simplygive says:
I love the gift I bought from this shop and will be going back for more. Not only is the product adorable and well made, the packaging is perfect. Love the wood shavings inside.
2 years ago
LaveMeSoapCo says:
awwww so adorable
2 years ago
rocknrags says:
Wow. Sweet stuff. My husband & I work together but in separate shops. It is great having someone there to bounce ideas off of. Good luck.
2 years ago
pinkytoeclothing says:
What a lovely shop and family :) Congrats! Thanks as always for these articles!
2 years ago
lizroca says:
Beautiful family and beautiful items!
2 years ago
LippincottSoapCo says:
I loved reading this article! What an inspiration! Thank you!
2 years ago
lisaroy says:
An inspiring story!
2 years ago
louiedog2100 says:
Lots of good information! and cute stuff!!
2 years ago
DeFine1Lady says:
Very inspiring article. Congratulations! You have a lovely shop and beautiful family. My favorite quotes: "For me, true creative delight is in my mind. I love ideas, brainstorming, scribbling, discussing and sketching with a batch of stove-top popcorn..." -Kimber "I loved building anything my imagination came up with. As I got older, things evolved with me...I love every piece of wood: the way the grain flows, the color, the way that it transforms when it’s finished." -Nick
2 years ago
jessgonacha says:
Wow, so inspiring! I love that they work together full time- that's so great! And I happened to notice that Ashley Thalman took the photograph at the top, and she was my wedding photographer last month! Small world. :) Thanks for another wonderful interview!
2 years ago
yotldesigns says:
It's so good to see you both are doing so well and your business is doing well.
2 years ago
NorthviewJewels says:
This story is one of my new favourites! I love this series and it is a pleasure to see such a wonderful family doing well and enjoying the experience of making other families happy :) Congratulations!
2 years ago
worksandfinds says:
Congratulation to both of you. So great to see hubby and wife working together. I wish you the best.
2 years ago
DoBatsEatCats says:
This series never fails to inspire me. Thank you for sharing your story, Nick and Kimber -- it's clear you deserve every bit of your success!
2 years ago
themefragrance says:
those are really beautiful toys! and a lovely story about the entire family.. wish you a great holiday selling season :)
2 years ago
girltuesdayjewelry says:
"Start bookkeeping with your first dollar." Boy, is that true! Thanks so much for sharing some of your life and life experience with us! Best wishes for continued success with your business!
2 years ago
SeaFindDesigns says:
Cute couple!! I would kill for that studio!!!!
2 years ago
daisylouise says:
What an amazing, inspirational story!
2 years ago
OwlandMouse says:
You guys are great!
2 years ago
hobocampcrafts says:
OMG Cuteness x a million! Love their shop- the kids the couple xox great all around! Congrats!
2 years ago
GeorgeGs says:
What a wonderful article..family and shop! Congratulations and wishing you all the best in the future.
2 years ago
LemonGrove says:
Great article!! Congratulations on quitting your day job!
2 years ago
postroadvintage says:
Way to go guys! You have a beautiful family also! Keep up the great work.
2 years ago
Hapagirls says:
Very inspiring!!! Hope to be there one day!
2 years ago
annashoub says:
That's a wonderful story. Wonderful to see other people juggling self employment and children. Looks like you're great at it.
2 years ago
PaperPetalCreations says:
Great article, very well written. As a new aspiring Etsy seller it's great to hear marketing tips from others. Thanks!
2 years ago
aprilfoss says:
Soo cute:)
2 years ago
AmberNicoleDesigns says:
Beautiful toys. Great to hear that this family found success on Etsy and can stay at home with their children.
2 years ago
remarkablebird says:
Not only are they the cutest family ever!! Love the products too. Way to go!!! You guys rock!!!
2 years ago
ArtByCatC says:
Enjoyed very much! Inspiring story.
2 years ago
MyMoms says:
Great article, love the picks!
2 years ago
soulyluna says:
Aces!!! your life looks lovely, funny and all around fantabulous!
2 years ago
chewiemonster says:
wonderful story! and good advice there too!
2 years ago
dustDesignCo says:
adorable. thanks for the inspiration!
2 years ago
SisterToSister says:
What a neat family! Congrats on the business and thanks for sharing with us!
2 years ago
thewishpot says:
Beautiful people, beautiful toys
2 years ago
Vintagefix says:
Wow! Very inspiring indeed! That is exactly where I want to be in a few years!
2 years ago
accessoryalamode says:
Inspiring is the word! It is such a great story to read and you all look so happy. You are producing some awesome toys! Keep up the wonderful work!
2 years ago
couturedesignsbym says:
love love love it!! so real...and congrats to you both:)
2 years ago
trafalgarssquare says:
This is one of my most favorite interviews! I love how they balance babies and work. I just "met" my two new etsy heros!
2 years ago
locallibrary says:
aw. I just love them and their products. here's to much success! :)
2 years ago
BillieBunnyVintage says:
Great stories like these make you appreciate how hard work really pays off. Such a cute family as well as a great article.
2 years ago
japonicas says:
I am always touched by the featured sellers who have choosen to take the less travelled routes :) I hope that I will be as successful as they are one day! Well, as the saying goes, if you choose a job you like, you don't have to work another day in your life! Cheers! :)
2 years ago
sherrytruitt says:
great interview. continued success to you all.
2 years ago
riorita says:
Wonderful toys. fine finishing. I wish them success!
2 years ago
EmmaBeeTextileArts says:
Very inspiring! Thank you for sharing!
2 years ago
TenderLetters says:
How sweet and inspiring they are! Thanks for the wonderful interview!
2 years ago
spacejam says:
i love reading these articles! Best of luck to you and your family!
2 years ago
Jenifersfamilyjewels says:
Thanks for sharing Mary! I love to see the stories of the couples running the business together! So nice!
2 years ago
SuppliesHandcrafted says:
Wonderful story!! Great creations & you have inspired many of us to keep on creating!
2 years ago
Iammie says:
Nice works!
2 years ago
ChocolateMintCrafts says:
Great story! And beautiful toys!!
2 years ago
craftaria says:
Lovely things you do! Keep going and lots of success*
2 years ago
Morphologica says:
Wow!! I don't have any little babies, but am off to heart now and try and think of some friends or relatives to buy for hehe :)
2 years ago
crochetgal says:
Great work and great toys!!
2 years ago
Leeya says:
What a sweet family! I wish you the best of luck!
2 years ago
unemployeddesigner says:
So stinking cute! All of you. And the toys, too. Oh, and inspiring, too!!!
2 years ago
ooty says:
What a great interview!! You are such a lovely family!
2 years ago
mrYen says:
those toys look such good quality! hope everything goes well for you!
2 years ago
hazelandhunter says:
this is great!
2 years ago
WickedDarling says:
Very inspiring! The best to them! :)
2 years ago
missmarmaladeuk says:
Great story - thanks for sharing
2 years ago
TreeHuggerStudio says:
Congrats on your success!!Good luck on your future journey.
2 years ago
showertreatsoap says:
Congratulations! So excited for you and your wonderful family. :0)
2 years ago
hellobrowneyes says:
Such a beautiful family! Your toys are adorable! Kind of makes me want to start having kids... haha.
2 years ago
Navare says:
Such neat products! And what a dream it is to work as a team the way you do.
2 years ago
StellasKnits says:
Awesome! What a fantastic story! Congratulations :-)
2 years ago
handsoncreations says:
Wow, this is such a helpful article. I really appriciate that this family was highlighted and they had great advice. Beautiful craft! I hope to be able to be as successful and thank you Etsy for your help!
2 years ago
darcyarts says:
Wonderful enterprise! Continued good luck and blassings to your family, littlesaplingtoys
2 years ago
TwistedCrystals says:
this was great to read, so busy and still so focussed :)
2 years ago
fantasybeader says:
Awe Great story! :-) Put a smile on my face.
2 years ago
daisydoodle says:
What a wonderful story, congrats to you and I love your shop!
2 years ago
klacustomcreations says:
great story and love their goodies! thanks for sharing.
2 years ago
mythunderstood says:
Lived above a chocolate shop.... woodworking.... toys... This is a true living fairytale : ) Best wishes to you and your family!
2 years ago
GalleryJuana says:
Informative and love the photos of you guys.
2 years ago
CatherinetteRings says:
Awesome Etsian , Love you stuff ! Congratulations!!
2 years ago
Oriol says:
lovely story and really nice post!! <3
2 years ago
ToadLillie says:
You are an inspiration to us all, but especially to your kids! What better way to grow up than seeing Mom and Dad balance creative passion and family joy. Best of luck to you! Will definitely be buying for any babies that come into our lives :)
2 years ago
geministudio says:
congrats! from one day job quitter to another! continued success
2 years ago
aphrodite888 says:
What a cute store!!! Fantastic story for my inspiration. Thanks Mary...
2 years ago
CreationsbyCat says:
What a wonderful interview!! Congratulations on your success, and best of luck for future success! I love your toys
2 years ago
McIsaacArt says:
Lovely success story and I wish you both and family all the best the future will and can bring to you.
2 years ago
wristcandycreations says:
This is just the sweetest story ever! Such an adorable family.. inspirational too!
2 years ago
littletank says:
they look like a very fun and happy family :)
2 years ago
StarsandRobots says:
I just came from the forums where I posted a trhead on need ing help selling kid's crafts on etsy, and lo and behold, your article was right there! I feel like I can go ahead and take it as a persoanl favor to me! Thanks for your excellent advice and inspiration, you truly live the Dream!
2 years ago
buddyschild says:
May I have the same luck as you! Congrats on your success story, may the force stay with you:-)
2 years ago
NestaHome says:
Awesome Fam!!! Great advice :)
2 years ago
samann1121 says:
I just bought one of your teethers! Lucy Baby loves it. And I love that you guys rest on Sundays.
2 years ago
zeropumpkin says:
aww so cool! what a cool cute family :D congrats!
2 years ago
breadandroses says:
Congratulations! What a lovely family and great product line! Your fine craftsmanship shows and certainly these toys will last generations. Great tips, too.
2 years ago
PipocaHandmade says:
What a wonderful story and store! Thank you for sharing.
2 years ago
babook says:
Thanks a lot to share this very very nice story !! Love it the work : )
2 years ago
MeowBarkArt says:
I identify with that obsession with legos! Beautiful family & great toys. Congratulations on your success!
2 years ago
96Desighns says:
Please check out my store lots of cute things!!!!!!!!! thank you God Bless!!!!!!!!
2 years ago
odiliafuart says:
Congrats!! Love the very organic shape of the toys. Keep up the wonderful work.
2 years ago
VignetteStudio says:
You both look so happy! Enjoy your success!
2 years ago
FluteTeacher says:
My spirit is uplifted from reading this! Thank you for sharing. And I'm jealous that you got to live above a chocolate shop!
2 years ago
twokidsstudio says:
I like this story! and what a wonderful family! All the best in your sales and keep up the good work! =)
2 years ago
AngelasAntics says:
You're story gives me hope for my own dreams....thank you for sharing part of your lives with us.
2 years ago
delightfullyvintage says:
Loved the fact you were both able to quit your day jobs and do something you both enjoy at home....and still make a good living! Keep up the success and keep whittling! It gives me hope.
2 years ago
stonesofhealing says:
How inspiring! Wonderful family, wonderful shop! :)
2 years ago
bittybambu says:
Very inspiring couple. I agree about the bookkeeping, good reminder for me to keep up on that. And I LOVE that organic car!
2 years ago
MalindasBeadDesigns says:
Thank you
2 years ago
51art says:
Continued success. You are an inspiration.
2 years ago
DowntownGirlDesigns says:
This is great!!! Love the story.
2 years ago
cassidycay says:
I love all of their stuff, even more so now that I know the people behind it!
2 years ago
bhangtiez says:
Great advice & a great story of success. Congrats & keep up the amazing work!
2 years ago
feltmeupdesigns says:
lovely inspiring article
2 years ago
bigbp88 says:
Thank you for the tips!! im just getting started and it is really upsetting to disapoint someone. thanx!!
2 years ago
muzie5 says:
This was such an inspiring article for me. I recently opened an online baby boutique - Wilderness Lane - and am now starting the process of manufacturing a few items that I really love. I'm in the beginning stages and hope for enough success that my husband can quit his day job (a job that's driving him crazy!) and stay home with me. Congrats on your success. I'm forwarding this site to my daughter who's pregnant with her first child. I know she'll want to buy one. Lynette
2 years ago
Knottywoodart says:
Thank You both... My wife and I are also would like to quite our day jobs our as well! Our 1st love is creating and painting our heirloom wagons. We love your products and will share little sapling toys with our clients, friends and Family. Doug and Sandra Larson Tucson, AZ
2 years ago
JiSTdesigns says:
Inspirational! thank you for sharing!
2 years ago
Genea says:
What an inspiration! Thank you for sharing your story. I love to see artists' work spaces where there are usually projects in the works :) I also enjoyed all of the lovely family photos :) Much love, Genea
2 years ago
softboiled says:
Thanks for such great tips! Love your work.
2 years ago
ErinHolbrookStudio says:
What a great story! I'm happy to see that work and spending time with your family can be balanced like this. Congratulations. I've been looking for safe toys for a while, glad to finally find such a wonderful product!... I'll be getting some of these for upcoming baby shower gifts for sure and hopefully someday for my own child - maybe by then I'll be able to quit my day job too : )
2 years ago
graphicspaces says:
What an inspiring story to see a husband and wife working together! That's what my hubby and I are working toward. I'm going to remember you're lovely toys when our little baby girl comes home. Many blessings to you and your adorable little sweeties!
2 years ago
Jewelrybynala says:
Congratulations, and continued success to you. You both look soooo happy to be working together at home!
2 years ago
Firedaisy says:
This is such a great article- *waves to the lovely couple* thanks for all the advice you guys! :) I am brand spanking new I haven't even posted anything, yet- I have been perusing the site learning from others success & failures. I lived in Eureka, CA, too! I used to walk around old town all the time- good times. ;) Good luck and much success for the future!
2 years ago
SEOWebDesign says:
Hurray for you for taking a risk and striking out on your own. I love reading how you mix in time with the kids during your day.
2 years ago
clothesmindedvintage says:
Awesome advice in regards to organizing while things are manageable and going to your local small business dev ctr. BTW love the Family Pic!!!
2 years ago
DesignsByShyloh says:
Congrats. Love your stuff but being all the way in Australia it's not worth the freight charge. Good work though
2 years ago
bethanylorelle says:
What a great feature!
2 years ago
earthwindnfire says:
Beautiful kids, and everyone looks so happy. Isn't that what life's about?? Good luck Peggy, EarthWindnFire
2 years ago
almostnecessities says:
So glad everything is going well for you guys! It's a little scary and not easy quitting your day job. My husband and I did it 17 years ago and although we put in a lot of hours at both of our shops it is great to be on our own! Peggy,
2 years ago
banfflines says:
Congratulations! The two of you have come up with a winning strategy. Sandra, Banff, Alberta Canada
2 years ago
discomedusa says:
simply wonderful! (life, interview, products...congratulations)
2 years ago
OctoberMansion says:
As so many have said, very inspiring. We are also a husband and wife team and find that we come up with the best ideas while we are doing the dishes together.
2 years ago
tinaspaper says:
wow, great tips and having 2 kids myself (3 years and 3 months), I need to go check out your shop NOW and buy some goodies for them.:)) thanks for sharing your story and good luck in the future!! big hello from Malibu.
2 years ago
PinkPerch says:
This is very motivational for all etsy sellers! Thank you for sharing this lovely story!
2 years ago
laura1953 says:
A main stumbling block for me is health/dental insurance. If I quit my day job, it will become a significant monthly expense. (As is the case for many others in my position!) Do you know of any insurance companies that cater to small business owners or craftspeople/artists? Your input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks, and best of success and happiness in your work! Laura
2 years ago
laura1953 says:
A main stumbling block for me is health/dental insurance. If I quit my day job, it will become a significant monthly expense. (As is the case for many others in my position!) Do you know of any insurance companies that cater to small business owners or craftspeople/artists? Your input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks, and best of success and happiness in your work! Laura
2 years ago
CreativeButterflyXOX says:
The cutest little toys ever!
2 years ago
jmliss says:
Great story! Very inspiring! Keep up the great work!
2 years ago
janellemass says:
You people are adorable.
2 years ago
SEOWebDesign says:
What could be more fun than spending so much of your time making thee adorable baby toys and creative and imaginative accessories. Congratulations on winning your freedom. :-)
2 years ago
flygirl715 says:
Love the story!! That is hilarious about observing kids on the playground and selling the info out of your Trapper Keeper. LOL! I wish I had the "think tank" skills that you have, Kimber. You two are very inspiring! Thank you!
1 year ago
AsTheWoodTurned says:
Awesome simply awesome. I hope some day that i will be able to leave behind the 9 to 5 grind. and create full time. Thank you for sharing
1 year ago
CompAndHandDone says:
There are only two words to say, ABSOLUTELY INSPIRING! Good for you Nick and Kimber!
1 year ago
penyadesignshop2 says:
great article! very inspiring!
1 year ago
cutiepeacouture says:
I love your story, and you gave me some inspiration that I have been lacking lately, so Thank-You! Your work is fabulous, keep it goin'.
1 year ago
ShopHolst says:
wow! very inspiring
1 year ago