Tell us about your previous working situation/s and how you discovered Etsy.
David: I have worked as a pie maker, cheese peddler, ditch digger, foundry worker, sculptor, hot dog vendor, graphic designer, book editor, college professor and most recently a landscape architect! I’ve always loved working with wood, though. I was laid off in early 2010, just a week after our son Thomas was born, and it turned out to have been one of those “everything happens for a reason” moments. Our dream had always been to run our own business, but we never knew what form was right for us. I started to make toys for Thomas, and it all fell into place — I was doing what I loved, Adrienne’s education background helped us in designing the toys, I have been able to stay home with our children and we have the family business we always wanted.
Adrienne: The only job I’ve ever had has been teaching — even as a high school student, I worked as an instructor at a summer camp. Now I teach kindergarten and first grade at an arts-integrated public school here in Seattle. David does the bulk of the work for Manzanita Kids: building toys, shipping, marketing and bookkeeping. I work on toy design, answering convos and helping out with odds and ends.
Being sellers on Etsy has been such an amazing experience. We found out about Etsy first through parents in my classroom, then friends and family. We’ve made connections with people all over the world through our toys! It’s truly gratifying to pour your heart into a toy, then find a person who values the toy so much that he or she wants to give it to a loved child!
What steps did you take to prepare for transitioning into full-time Etsy selling?
Though we started selling on Etsy last November, we went full time this past March. This allowed us to get our feet wet and determine if there was interest in what we were offering; we also learned about the realities of making, marketing and selling our toys. We learned an incredible amount in the first few months, and it gave us a chance to pose some of those big questions:
- What are we offering in our toys?
- Why would someone buy our toys?
- Do we find these toys interesting to make and play with?
- Is our business compatible with our family lifestyle?
These questions helped us make some decisions before we took a jump into the deep end.
What is your favorite part of the woodworking process?
Getting the design from paper to a tangible state is a blast. However, just being in my shop and working with my hands is incredibly rewarding. At the end of the day, when I put the toys on the shelf, I know I’ve accomplished something worthwhile. My myriad career moves have always been something I’ve joked about. I was always circling what I really wanted to do. I was picking jobs that had an aspect of creation in them, but now that I’m directing my creative process, I feel fulfilled in a way I never did before.
What are your best marketing tips?
Well, we are still learning what works for us! I think just getting as many eyes as possible on your items is the key.
- We participated in some giveaways and started a Facebook fan page.
- Every time we’re mentioned on a blog, we get a boost in views, favorites and sales to our store.
- I’ve started to Google search our business name several times a week and see what new search results pop up, then contact the site/blog and thank them for the mention. We’ve started to develop some nice relationships with some bloggers and I think that has helped us get the word out.
- We recently participated in our first craft show: Urban Craft Uprising, here in Seattle. It was great way to show off our products, meet buyers and store owners and watch the numerous ways kids play with our toys. We noticed a jump in our Etsy business after participating in the craft show.
- I’m continually amazed how on point and useful Etsy resources can be for sellers. We are pretty busy, but I try to read as much as I can.
What’s been your most popular item or line to date?
Adrienne: Our Modular Wall Sets have been very popular. We had actually talked about this design for years before we ever dreamed of starting a toy business. One of my favorite toys as a child was a set of small zoo animals and fences. David was a Playmobil and LEGO kid. We talked about how we could create an open-ended toy that would combine the aspects of imagination and construction that embody the concept of play for both of us. If we could, I think we’d both love to live in one of our modular wall sets!
Have you made any business mistakes you regret?
Plenty of mistakes, but no regrets so far. We learn something new every day about the logistics of running a small business, whether it’s calculating shipping or figuring out how to light the toys for photographs. It can be hard to gauge the success of a promotion; you may not see any results for quite some time. We are taking the long view on our business, though I’d love to see immediate feedback on our promotions. That being said, we’ve had the most luck with actively relisting items and adding new toys in our Etsy shop.
What is the biggest challenge you face during your daily schedule?
Like most parents, we are impatiently waiting for a 26 hour day! As a stay-at-home dad, I work evenings, during naps and on weekends. Our daughter, Isabel, was born on August 5, so we’re doing the newborn nights right now. We’re savoring the summer, though; Adrienne’s on maternity leave, and it’s come at a great time when I’m working on building inventory for the holiday season. We make a concerted effort to schedule family time every day so that the four of us are together.
What’s the hardest part about running your own business?
It can be hard to step back and look objectively at your business. It’s personal — we are invested in Manzanita Kids in every conceivable way, so it’s easy to convince ourselves that a design is ready to go or that a photo is good enough. Between the two of us, we find ways to get fresh looks at our work. We rely on critiques from trusted friends and family. Of course, finding a balance between work and family is also challenging, especially with an 18-month-old and a newborn!
What do you enjoy most about not having a day job?
Between the two of us, we don’t miss many moments in our kids’ lives. I love being in charge of my time.
What is the most exciting thing that has come out of selling your designs through Etsy?
David: We still get a rush whenever someone buys a toy. It’s a phenomenal feeling to know someone values our work so much that they want to buy it for a loved one.
Adrienne: I love the feedback section of our shop. I get such a kick when people post photos of their kids playing with the toys!
What advice would you give someone considering a similar path?
David: Having a passion for the items you create is imperative, but you also need to be equally committed to the other, less romantic, areas of the job: marketing, shipping, bookkeeping, etc. Keep your actions faithful to the focus of your business — it will help keep your shop coherent for yourself and your customers.
Adrienne: Starting a business, especially as you start a family, is tough. Communication has been key for us. We make a strong team. I think you have to have a strong partnership in order to run a business like this.
What goals do you have in store for Manzanita Kids?
Brand identity is important to us. We want to continue building our brand recognition so that when someone looks at our toy, it’s clear that it’s a Manzanita Kids design. We also want to continue to build our wholesale accounts. Eventually, we’d like to have a workshop with an employee to help David with building toys and shipping. We aim to grow the business enough so that we can both work on it full time. We would love to have a bigger workshop — a converted one-car garage gets pretty crowded with a lot of large power tools!
Thanks for sharing your story, David and Adrienne. Check out their work in the Seller’s Items below.
Previous Quit Your Day Job posts
76 comments
Sign in to add your ownLisarachel says:
I love your work! what a lovely spin on some classic toys;) good luck!
265 days ago
SimplyUniqueGifts says:
wow! These are amazing...
265 days ago
handprintlady says:
I LOVE your toys! I have 6 kids...I'd buy your toys right now..if they weren't in college..!
265 days ago
funktionslust says:
I'm happy for you on your creative path! congratulations =)
265 days ago
Iammie says:
Congrats!
265 days ago
sparrowgrey says:
Awesome toys, great shop; congrats!
265 days ago
silke5763 says:
Wood is just wonderful - and so is YOUR story!!! All the best for the 4 of you, inspiring to read. Thanks! silke
265 days ago
BossysFeltworks says:
Whoa.... you're making those gorgeous toys, preparing for the end of summer, fielding the "quit your day job" exposure AND doing the newborn thing??? Hats off to you guys. You are working REALLY hard!!!!!
265 days ago
SpottedFish says:
Great story - I love that dollhouse! Congrats on the feature!
265 days ago
jakeane says:
I love the new (and "old") toys. :-) So beautiful!!
265 days ago
OhCreativeOne says:
great story and items!
265 days ago
DianaMDesigns says:
You have some great designs, especially love toy puzzles and blocks that stimulate yound minds. I think you really know what kids like. Congratulations on being a featured seller.
265 days ago
elinadesigns says:
Beautiful work! My son is just a month older than your daughter - once he grows I'll have to come by again for shopping! :)
265 days ago
aestivationdesigns says:
You have taken the simple beauty of wood & turned it into mini master pieces! Gorgeous!
265 days ago
featherwhore says:
What a great article! Congrats to you & your family! You make awesome toys!!! :)
265 days ago
ShereesAtelier says:
Wonerful toys and wonderful story! Wish these had been around when my kids were little. :)
265 days ago
HappinessHill says:
We love wooden toys. They are strewn throughout our house. I have six children and I'm fixing to have my seventh. I go for unique, ever-lasting, healthy, safe, beautiful and heirloom. I NEVER buy toys from the chain stores!
265 days ago
Yachatsrose says:
The modular Wall Sets are so innovative. I' sure my grandchildren would play for hours with these. Also, the design of the toys is so pleasing and sculptural. I love the Cat Stacker toys. I have a set on my coffee table for my grandchildren. It is nice to see toys that are designed to be seen, touched, and used. Beautiful work.
265 days ago
sonyarasi says:
Really great work! Congrats!
265 days ago
KKSimpleRegalJewelry says:
This is really neat! Congrats! I love the toys! ~Krista
265 days ago
LittleWrenPottery says:
Your pieces are so cute! congratulations on being a featured seller. I love how you bring out the beauty in each piece of wood.
265 days ago
SandBoxStudio says:
Congratulations! Great story...best of luck to you!
265 days ago
swedishT says:
As I grew up a "BRIO-child" - as most swedes since ....forever.... I love these designs! :)
265 days ago
ersh99 says:
love the photos and craftsman at work shots! My 6 month old son Bowie loves their dinosaurs (some of their early work) and I can see him playing with these for a long time to come.
265 days ago
kunklebaby says:
So happy for you guys! Congrats on the newest addition! Your toys are THE BEST! :D
265 days ago
Parachute425 says:
Your designs are genius. Keep up the good work. Best of luck and congrats on a well deserved feature.
265 days ago
pamwares says:
congratualtions. i completely agree that things do happen for a reason. sometimes the moment things happen it is a little overwhelming but it all works out in the end. much success!
265 days ago
expressyourself says:
great toys and lovely story!
265 days ago
TheZestyDesk says:
Your toys are beautiful! Congrats to you both on the feature and your lovely children. Cherish every moment that you get to spend at home with them! I would say you are lucky to be able to spend this time with your children but it's actually not luck, it's your own hard work and determination. Way to go!
265 days ago
jenjenpb says:
Beautiful designs and so fun for the kids!
265 days ago
iheartchelsyanne says:
I keep adding items from your shop into my favorites list! Can't decide what to purchase:)
265 days ago
ACESfinds says:
Wow, lovely toys~ Wonderful ideas. Congrats on your success~ I have tried to raise my kids with a Montessori lifestyle at home~ I would have loved to have your shop available when they were young~ I will definitely remember your toys when shopping for gifts~ Peace~Alison
265 days ago
SusanFaye says:
My favorite toy as a child was a little stove completely made of wood by my carpenter dad. I'm so thrilled to see such beautifully crafted wooden toys like these on Etsy. Best wishes for continued success!!!!
265 days ago
TwoBerylsVintage says:
I just love the Octopus/Rooster/Mouse concept! Like the old clown face wooden block puzzle toy of yester-year. Now, please, just tell me where I can find some grandchildren -- my 20-something children are making me wait!! Great designs -- keep rolling them out! Best wishes.
265 days ago
chiquiita says:
Inspiring, and as you said "everything happens for a reason"...beautiful family, many blessings.
265 days ago
westlinnv says:
great story and beautiful toys! i love the designs and know where i will be doing my holiday and birthday gift shopping!
265 days ago
MandyBesek says:
Congrats David and Adrienne!
265 days ago
EclecticAffinity says:
lovely designs! great work!
265 days ago
RamshackleStudio says:
Congrats!
265 days ago
ThreeGracesArtistry says:
Absolutely Beautiful...
265 days ago
Mclovebuddy says:
cool stuff.
265 days ago
HopeChestHome says:
You two are really inspiring as business people, and inspiring as a family too! I found your shop prior to this feature, and have been posting your toys on facebook as preferable gifts at my baby shower (even though my son won't be old enough for them for a while!) It's great to see inside the studio- and makes me that much more excited to support your endeavors!
265 days ago
ElnaDesigns says:
I love your work! congratulations David and Adrienne :)
265 days ago
tuckooandmoocow says:
Congrats on the success! Your work is awesome!
265 days ago
mimiworkshop says:
I love your works! Great story!
265 days ago
veryveraventage says:
Beautiful work! Good luck in all your endeavors. Enjoy your babies!!
265 days ago
michemozaix says:
Great shop!! ...and great article! Your cutest creation is actually your little model, your son Thomas... he's adorable!
264 days ago
lynntodddesigns says:
really beautiful toys! congrats on the feature :-)
264 days ago
DittyDrops says:
Congratulations to you both!
264 days ago
Thamburan says:
Eco friendly toys .. very safe for children. Thanks so much.
264 days ago
calladoo says:
These toys are beautiful! Congratulations to you and your family!
262 days ago
Agriel says:
Gorgeous! Absolutely beautiful and creative work ! Congrats and longevity!!!
262 days ago
Longagodesigns says:
I love it when things work out! Sending good thoughts to you both.
262 days ago
quiltsbykandy says:
Your wooden toys are awesome!!!
262 days ago
BirdiesCozyNest says:
It's wonderful to see a family working together on a business they love. The dedication, inspiration and focus that your children are growing within will be such a benefit over the years. Best wishes and congratulations!
262 days ago
graebridge1 says:
Beautiful designs. Best of luck to you and your family!
259 days ago
megansbeadeddesigns says:
A wonderful feature! Those toys are amazing!!!
257 days ago
ateliernishasha says:
these toys are so beautiful. i also love woodworking ( i made a car for my barbie's when i was little out of scrap wood), my dad loves woodworking too, so i see myself someday add woodworks into my shop -- but for the tiny ones :) thanks for the inspiration and i wish you the best!
257 days ago
VintageNChic says:
Very inspiring story! Thank you for sharing it.
253 days ago
jackalopetradingco says:
Fantastico!... Love the toys... Love the story... Love the insight!
250 days ago
UrbanTickle says:
LOVE!! Gorgeous stuff....:) Congrats and best of luck
249 days ago
MalindasBeadDesigns says:
Thank you for sharing about yourselves and how you got started. I have had almost as many differnt kinds of jobs as you have. Thank you for the encouragement. Malinda
241 days ago
indranis says:
So interesting and beautiful story! ...Gorgeous toys! ...Congrats from heart!
236 days ago
quiltitems4u says:
Great Success Story - Thank You for your time in sharing with us all. Your toys are just spectacular. As a Quilter, I see all those beautiful grains of wood, lights and darks, and think Quilt Squares made of wood. A future 'avenue' for you maybe????
236 days ago
AuldMemories says:
I also am taking the " no day job" plunge! We are selling our resort lodge and concentrating solely on my ETSY store. Scary but exciting!
228 days ago
DayDreamerVintage says:
I looove your shop, I have a 2 year old son that would looove your toys!!!
226 days ago
sjegan says:
Oh wow! You're living the dream! I love your stuff, I'm a qualified Montessori teacher and your stuff fits in really well with the ethos, with Steiner too! Congrats and good luck, if I ever get around to having kids I'll be looking you up :)
219 days ago
40degN says:
Love your wood toys!!! Would be a great gift for my nephew!
194 days ago
HAUSofNAHRIN says:
I LOVE your wooden toys!!! My brother in England keeps telling my mother and I to look for wooden toys and now I've found them! I'm so glad to have found your article and shop!!!!
190 days ago
HAUSofNAHRIN says:
I LOVE your toys!!! My brother in England keeps telling my mother and I to look for wooden toys and now I've found them! I'm so glad to have found your article and shop!!!!
190 days ago
HAUSofNAHRIN says:
oops sorry for the duplicate comment... dunno what happened there.
190 days ago
peshka says:
Beautiful toys!
186 days ago
modernrubbishsf says:
Love the owls!! Hooray for wooden toys!!
184 days ago
mummiquilts says:
Beautiful work!!! I do woodwork myself so I can easily imagine what goes into these amazing toys...but I will stick to the sewing. These toys are just what babies need, not always the plastic toys from the store. I admire your creativity.
174 days ago
babybayrs says:
Beautiful toys!
172 days ago
Buster and boo from busterandboo says:
Beautiful shop/beautiful toys!
81 days ago